The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction

It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.(AU)

Perceptions of the local government and the residents regarding rural tourism development effects. Survey in the Suceava County - Romania / Percepções do governo local e dos residentes sobre os efeitos do desenvolvimento do turismo rural: Levantamento no Condado de Suceava na Romênia

ABSTRACT: Rural tourism has received more and more attention because it can contribute to increase the living standard in some rural areas, stimulate local economy and reduce the urban-rural gaps. At the same time, the preference for this type of tourism is growing, but for the efficient use of the existing potential, the involvement of local authorities and residents is needed. This paper revealed the perceptions of human resources in local government institutions and of residents in Suceava County - Romania to identify the effects of tourism development on the administrative process, living standards and natural environment. The undertaken questionnaire-based research showed that the degree of tourism development positively influenced the level of improvement of the public affairs management process in the respective administrative-territorial unit, as well as the standard of living of the local community. Regarding the influence of tourism development on the environment, the recorded results showed that the intensification of the tourism phenomenon does not strongly threaten the local environment, but it is necessary to raise awareness of the environmental impact.

RESUMO: O turismo rural tem recebido cada vez mais atenção porque pode contribuir para o aumento do padrão de vida em algumas áreas rurais, para o estímulo da economia local e para a redução das brechas urbano-rurais. Ao mesmo tempo, a preferência por este tipo de turismo é crescente, mas para o aproveitamento eficiente do potencial existente é necessário o envolvimento das autoridades locais e dos residentes. Este artigo tem como objetivo revelar as percepções dos recursos humanos em instituições governamentais locais e dos residentes no Condado de Suceava na Roménia para identificar os efeitos do desenvolvimento do turismo no processo administrativo, nos padrões de vida e no ambiente natural. A pesquisa baseada em questionários evidenciou que o grau de desenvolvimento do turismo influencia positivamente o nível de melhoria do processo de gestão da coisa pública na respectiva unidade administrativo-territorial, bem como os padrões de vida da comunidade local em questão. Em relação à influência do desenvolvimento do turismo no meio ambiente, os resultados registrados mostraram que a intensificação do fenômeno turístico não ameaça fortemente o meio ambiente local, mas é preciso conscientizar sobre o impacto ambiental.

Environmental variability in indirect selection for grain yield in common bean lines

An approach to the number of experiments that should be used in correlation analyses aimed at increasing efficiency in indirect selection for grain yield is unprecedented for common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). We hypothesize that trait correlation estimates vary in response to the growing environment. This study was undertaken to investigate the correlations between plant architecture and yield traits in common bean lines and to determine the minimum number of experiments required by Pearson's linear correlation analysis to increase efficiency in indirect selection for grain yield. Seventeen common bean genotypes were evaluated for 17 agronomic traits in four experiments. Pearson's linear correlation analyses were carried out using data from individual experiments and different combinations of growing seasons and years. Ten out of the 17 agronomic traits showed a significant genotype × environment interaction effect, meaning that common bean genotypes exhibited variation for most of the traits evaluated in different growing seasons and years, which resulted in changes in the correlation estimates between these traits. Pearson's linear correlation estimates obtained between plant architecture and yield traits varied in significance, magnitude, and sign when data from individual experiments and combinations of growing seasons and years were considered. The number of grains per pod is the most promising agronomic trait used in indirect selection for grain yield in common bean lines. Data from at least three experiments should be used in Pearson's linear correlation analysis to achieve greater efficiency in indirect selection for grain yield in common bean lines.

Molecular detection of Sarcocystis spp. in the breast muscle of captive birds from the southern region of Brazil / Detecção molecular de Sarcocystis spp. no músculo peitoral de aves de cativeiro da região sul do Brasil

Studies on diseases of wild birds are essential in the context of public health, as these animals act as sentinels, allowing information regarding a determined geographic area. In addition, birds are food protein sources for animals, and therefore play an important role in the life cycle of the protozoan Sarcocystis spp. This study aimed to identify the Sarcocystis spp. in breast muscle samples of naturally infected captive birds. The breast muscle of 89 birds were sampled, and the DNA amplified by PCR targeting the 18S ribosomal RNA gene to detect Sarcocystis spp. PCR products were sequenced and 5.61% (5/89) samples showed 100% similarity with Sarcocystis spp. (one Cyanoliseus patagonus, one Psittacula krameri, two Pyrrhura frontalis, and one Ramphastos dicolorus). The large number of naturally infected species analyzed by molecular methods allowed the detection of Sarcocystis spp. in different bird species, corroborating the epidemiology of Sarcocystis spp.

Estudos sobre doenças de aves silvestres são essenciais no contexto da saúde pública, pois esses animais atuam como sentinelas, permitindo obter informações sobre uma determinada área geográfica. Além disso, as aves são fontes de proteína alimentar para os animais e, portanto, desempenham um papel importante no ciclo de vida do Sarcocystis. Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar Sarcocystis spp. nos músculos do peito de aves de cativeiro naturalmente infectadas. Os músculos do peito de 89 aves foram coletados, e o DNA amplificado pela PCR do gene RNA ribossômico 18S para detecção de Sarcocystis spp. Os produtos da PCR foram sequenciados e 5,61% (5/89) amostras apresentaram 100% de similaridade com o Sarcocystis spp. (um Cyanoliseus patagonus, um Psittacula krameri, dois Pyrrhura frontalis e um Ramphastos dicolorus). O grande número de espécies naturalmente infectadas analisadas por métodos moleculares permitiu a detecção de Sarcocystis spp. em diferentes espécies de aves, corroborando a epidemiologia de Sarcocystis spp.

Optimized biotransformation of acid-treated water melon peel hydrolyzate into ethanol

Abstract Today, global focus of research is to explore the solution of energy crisis and environmental pollution. Like other agricultural countries, bulk quantities of watermelon peels (WMP) are disposed-off in environment as waste in Pakistan and appropriate management of this waste is the need of hour to save environment from pollution. The work emphasizes the role of ethanologenic yeasts to utilize significant sugars present in WMP for low-cost bioethanol fermentation. Dilute hydrochloric acid hydrolysis of WMP was carried out on optimized conditions employing RSM (response surface methodology) following central composite design (CCD). This experimental design is based on optimization of ethanologenesis involving some key independent parameters such as WMP hydrolysate and synthetic media ratio (X1), incubation temperature (X2) and incubation temperature (X3) for maximal ethanol yield exploiting standard (Saccharomyces cerevisiae K7) as well as experimental (Metchnikowia cibodasensisY34) yeasts. The results revealed that maximal ethanol yields obtained from S. cerevisiae K7 was 0.36±0.02 g/g of reducing sugars whereas M. cibodasensisY34, yielded 0.40±0.01 g ethanol/g of reducing sugars. The yeast isolate M. cibodasensisY34 appeared as promising ethanologen and embodies prospective potential for fermentative valorization of WMP-to-bioethanol.

Resumo Hoje, o foco global da pesquisa é explorar a solução da crise energética e da poluição ambiental. Como em outros países agrícolas, grandes quantidades de cascas de melancia (WMP) são descartadas como resíduos no meio ambiente no Paquistão, mas a gestão adequada desses resíduos é a mais recente solução para salvar o meio ambiente da poluição. O trabalho enfatiza o papel das leveduras etanologênicas para utilizar açúcares significativos presentes no WMP para fermentação de bioetanol de baixo custo. A hidrólise de ácido clorídrico diluído de WMP foi realizada em condições otimizadas empregando RSM (metodologia de superfície de resposta) e seguindo o projeto de composto central (CCD). Este projeto experimental é baseado na otimização da etanologenesis envolvendo alguns parâmetros independentes importantes, como hidrolisado de WMP e razão de meio sintético (X1), temperatura de incubação (X2) e temperatura de incubação (X3) para rendimento máximo de etanol explorando o padrão (Saccharomyces cerevisiae K7) também como leveduras experimentais (Metchnikowia cibodasensis Y34). Os resultados revelaram que os rendimentos máximos de etanol obtidos a partir de S. cerevisiae K7 foi de 0,36 ± 0,02 g / g de açúcares redutores, enquanto M. cibodasensis Y34 rendeu 0,40 ± 0,01 g de etanol / g de açúcares redutores. O isolado de levedura M. cibodasensis Y34 apareceu como um etanologeno promissor e incorpora um potencial prospectivo para a valorização fermentativa de WMP em bioetanol.

Dynamic organization of two agroforestry systems in the semi-arid region of Paraíba and their contribution to improving the socio-economic conditions of farming families / Caracterização e organização dinâmica de dois sistemas agroflorestais no semiárido paraibano e sua contribuição para melhoria das condições socioeconômicas de famílias agricultoras

ABSTRACT: The socio-economic vulnerability of family farmers in Brazilian semi-arid regions, combined with the intense degradation of the Caatinga biome, entails the use of alternatives that allow people to remain in the countryside while recovering the environment. Are agroforestry systems (AFS), which are based on the ecological, economic, and social interactions existing in a production system, an alternative? The present study described the structure, organization, and floristic composition of two AFS and analyzed the soil fertility of the two AFSimplanted in the semi-arid region of Paraíba. This study revealed that the farmers consider the AFS to be less harmful to the environment as it provides greater protection to the soil and better-qualityfood. Thegreatest challenges wereobtaining water during drought season and the need foran extra workforce. Nevertheless, the produce from these systemswas sufficient to provide for the families. Several varieties of fruit species were found in both the AFS studied, and Malpighia emarginata (acerola) was the most predominant. The soils of the two AFS presented a practically neutral pH the and high percentage of base saturation,thereby falling under the category of eutrophic soil with high fertility, and are ideal for growingany type of crop.

RESUMO: A vulnerabilidade socioeconômica dos agricultores familiares no semiárido brasileiro aliado à intensa degradação do bioma caatinga requer o emprego de alternativas que propiciem a permanência do homem no campo, ao mesmo tempo em que recupere o meio ambiente. Os Sistemas Agroflorestais (SAFs) que estão fundamentados nas interações ecológicas, econômicas e sociais existentes em um sistema de produção, são alternativas? O presente estudo tem como objetivos descrever a estrutura, a composição florística e a organização de dois SAFs implantados no sertão paraibano, bem como analisar a fertilidade dos solos das propriedades sob estes sistemas. Este trabalho verificou que os agricultores consideram que os SAFs proporcionam menos agressão ao meio ambiente, maior proteção ao solo e alimentação de qualidade, além da manutenção das famílias com a produção. As duas maiores dificuldades são a obtenção de água nos períodos de estiagem e mão de obra auxiliar. Nos dois SAFs estudados, há uma maior quantidade de espécies frutíferas, sendo a Malpighia emarginata (acerola) a de maior predominância. Os solos dos dois SAFs apresentam pH praticamente neutro e elevado percentual de saturação por base, sendo considerados eutróficos, com alto nível de fertilidade e ideal para o estabelecimento de agricultura.

Origem e destinação da fauna silvestre: levantamento de dados no estado de Sergipe / Origin and destination of wildlife: survey data in the state of Sergipe

A biodiversidade da Região Nordeste Brasileira encontra-se ameaçada pela ação humana devido a atividades como o desmatamento e a retirada de espécies silvestres do seu ambiente de origem. Assim, objetiva-se, com esta pesquisa, realizar um levantamento descritivo acerca das ações de recebimento e destinação dos animais silvestres realizadas pelo Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis (IBAMA) no estado de Sergipe. Para isso, foram utilizados os dados provenientes dos registros de captura realizados pelo IBAMA/SE entre os anos de 2016 e 2020. Os animais que compunham esse banco de dados foram classificados conforme sua classe taxonômica, sendo: aves, répteis ou mamíferos. A origem dos animais que chegaram ao IBAMA foi subdividida da seguinte forma: oriundos de apreensão, de resgate ou de entrega voluntária. Já a destinação desses animais foi classificada como: óbito, soltura, cativeiro ou outros (quando não se enquadravam nas classes anteriores). Foi elaborado um banco de dados utilizando o software Excel®, e os dados foram analisados de maneira descritiva. Dos 5.247 indivíduos apreendidos ao longo do período estudado, a maior parte pertencia à classe das aves (81,9%), seguida pela dos répteis (16,4%) e dos mamíferos (1,7%). A apreensão foi a origem mais comum dos animais recebidos pelo IBAMA/SE em todos os anos avaliados; em segundo e terceiro lugar estão a entrega voluntária e o resgate, respectivamente. Para todas as classes taxonômicas, a principal destinação dos animais foi a soltura, enquanto o envio para cativeiros foi a alternativa menos frequente em todos os anos.

The biodiversity of the Brazilian Northeast region is threatened by human action due to activities such as deforestation and the removal of wild species from their original environment. Thus, this research aims to carry out a descriptive survey about the actions of reception and destination of wild animals performed by the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources Brazilian Institute Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) in the State of Sergipe. For this, data from capture records carried out by IBAMA/SE between 2016 and 2020 were used. The animals that made up this database were classified according to their taxonomic class, being, Birds, Reptiles, or Mammals. The origin of animals that arrived at IBAMA was subdivided as follows: from seizure, rescue, or voluntary delivery. The destination of these animals was classified as: death, release, captivity, or others (when they did not fit into the previous classes). A database was created using Excel® software, and the data were analyzed descriptively. Of the 5247 individuals apprehended over the period studied, most belonged to the bird class (81.9%), followed by reptiles (16.4%) and mammals (1.7%). Seizure was the most common origin of animals received by IBAMA/SE in all evaluated years, in second and third place are voluntary delivery and rescue, respectively. For all taxonomic classes, the main destination of the animals was release, while sending to captivity was the least frequent alternative in all years.

Soybean adaptability and stability analyzes to the organic system through AMMI, GGE Biplot and mixed models methodologies / Análises de adaptabilidade e estabilidade da soja ao sistema orgânico por meio de metodologias AMMI, GGE Biplot e modelos mistos

This research determined the adaptability and stability of soybean yield for organic systems in different environments. Grain yield data (GY, kg ha-1) from experiments with six soybean genotypes evaluated in six environments in Brazil and one environment in Paraguay were used. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, organized in an incomplete factorial scheme, with six environments in Brazil (Toledo- PR, Palotina- PR, Mangueirinha- PR, Três Passos- RS, Passo Fundo- RS, Major Vieira- SC) and one in Paraguay (Bela Vista do Norte- PY) with six soybean genotypes (BRS 284, BRS 391, BRS 511, BRS 523, BRS 525, BRS 535) arranged in four replications per environment. BRS 511 genotype was characterized by high average grain yield and stability by the AMMI method. BRS 284 genotype was identified as the ideal genotype in the GGE biplot method. WAASBY and BLUP index selected BRS511 and BRS284 genotypes.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a adaptabilidade e estabilidade da produtividade da soja para sistemas orgânicos em diferentes ambientes. Foram utilizados dados de produtividade de grãos (GY, kg ha-1) de experimentos com seis genótipos de soja avaliados em seis ambientes no Brasil e um ambiente no Paraguai. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi blocos casualizados, organizados em esquema fatorial incompleto, com seis ambientes no Brasil (Toledo - PR, Palotina - PR, Mangueirinha - ​​PR, Três Passos - RS, Passo Fundo - RS, Major Vieira - SC) e um no Paraguai (Bela Vista do Norte - PY) com seis genótipos de soja (BRS 284, BRS 391, BRS 511, BRS 523, BRS 525, BRS 535) dispostos em quatro repetições por ambiente. O genótipo BRS 511 foi caracterizado por alta produtividade média de grãos e estabilidade pelo método AMMI. O genótipo BRS 284 foi identificado como o genótipo ideal pelo método GGE biplot. Os índices WAASBY e BLUP selecionaram os genótipos BRS511 e BRS284.

Soybean extracts can improve plant development

ABSTRACT: Microbial biodiversity of an environment can contribute to plant growth and increase crop yield. Plant extracts from soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) were investigated on soybean plants grown after inoculation with these extracts. Soil samples were collected from two important Brazilian soybean-growing regions to produce the extracts used in the experiments. The extracts were produced with material collected from aboveground biomass and rhizosphere of soybean plants cultivated in a controlled greenhouse (phase 1). The extracts produced in phase 1 were applied in a sequential experiment (phase 2). Phase 2 was conducted to examine the plant microbiome after the microbial alteration process in the greenhouse through seed inoculation with the extracts produced previously. Samples of aboveground biomass were collected to determine root dry matter and crop yield. Bacterial 16S rRNA sequences were processed to determine the final microbial content of soybean. The inoculated treatments had lower species diversity; however, the phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were more abundant in the treatments than in the non-inoculated treatment. The soybean plant stem in the inoculated treatment also had a positive response to enrichment of the bacterial classes Betaproteobacteria, Bacilli and Flavobacteria. Inoculation affected the microbial composition of soybean plants. The alteration of microbiome changes revealed differences for crop yield between the inoculated and non-inoculated treatments, with up to 93.5 % higher crop yields per plant according to the extract applied.

The impact of laparoscopic gynecological surgery training on the technicity index of a developing country center

Purpose: To compare laparoscopic gynecological surgery training between a developed country's reference center (host center) and a public reference service in a developing country (home center), and use the technicity index (TI) to compare outcomes and to determine the impact of laparoscopic gynecological surgery fellowship training on the home center's TI. Methods: The impact of training on the home center was assessed by comparing surgical performance before and after training. TI was assessed in 2017 in the host center, and before and after training in the home center. Epidemiological and clinical data, and information on reason for surgery, preoperative images, estimated intraoperative bleeding, operative time, surgical specimen weight, hospital stay length, complication and reintervention rates were collected from both institutions. Home center pre-training data were retrospectively collected between 2010 and 2013, while post-training data were prospectively collected between 2015 and 2017. A two-tail Z-score was used for TI comparison. Results: The analysis included 366 hysterectomies performed at the host center in 2017, and 663 hysterectomies performed at the home center between 2015 and 2017. TI in the host center was 82.5%, while in the home center it was 6% before training and 22% after training. There were no statistical differences in length of hospital stay, preoperative uterine volume, surgical specimen weight and complication rate between centers. However, significantly shorter mean operative time and lower blood loss during surgery were observed in the host center. Conclusions: High-quality laparoscopic training in a world-renowned specialized center allowed standardizing laparoscopic hysterectomy procedures and helped to significantly improve TI in the recipient's center with comparable surgical outcomes.

Modulating the production of xylanase by Bacillus pumilus BS131 through optimization using waste fiber sludge

Abstract In recent days, cheapest alternative carbon source for fermentation purpose is desirable to minimize production cost. Xylanases have become attractive enzymes as their potential in bio-bleaching of pulp and paper industry. The objective of the present study was to identify the potential ability on the xylanase production by locally isolated Bacillus pumilus BS131 by using waste fiber sludge and wheat bran media under submerged fermentation. Culture growth conditions were optimized to obtain significant amount of xylanase. Maximum xylanase production was recorded after 72 hours of incubation at 30 °C and 7 pH with 4.0% substrate concentration. In the nutshell, the production of xylanase using inexpensive waste fiber sludge and wheat-bran as an alternative in place of expensive xylan substrate was more cost effective and environment friendly.

Resumo Nos últimos dias, a fonte alternativa de carbono mais barata para fins de fermentação é desejável para minimizar o custo de produção. As xilanases têm se tornado enzimas atraentes como seu potencial no biobranqueamento da indústria de papel e celulose. O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar a capacidade potencial na produção de xilanase por Bacillus pumilus BS131 isolado localmente usando lodo de fibra residual e farelo de trigo em meio de fermentação submersa. As condições de crescimento da cultura foram otimizadas para obter uma quantidade significativa de xilanase. A produção máxima de xilanase foi registrada após 72 horas de incubação a 30 °C e pH 7 com concentração de substrato de 4,0%. Resumindo, a produção de xilanase usando lodo de fibra residual de baixo custo e farelo de trigo como uma alternativa no lugar do substrato de xilano caro foi mais econômica e ecológica.

Seroepidemiology of leptospirosis in horses from Santarém, Pará / Soroepidemiologia de leptospirose em equinos da região de Santarém, Pará

Leptospirosis is an endemic zoonotic disease that is distributed worldwide, which has the potential to have health and economic impacts. Leptospira spp. is spiral-shaped and capable of infecting mammals, including horses, which may result in asymptomatic or clinical forms. Therefore, the current study aimed to analyze the frequency of anti-Leptospira antibodies in serum samples from horses from Santarém, Pará, Brazil. For that purpose, 88 blood samples from horses without a history of leptospirosis vaccination were serologically evaluated through the microscopic agglutination technique (MAT) with a 13 serovars, belonging to ten different serogroups. There were 58 samples that were seropositive (65.90%), which included 28 samples seropositive for Pyrogenes (48.3%), 24 for Autumnalis (41.4%), 18 for Icterohaemorrhagiae (31.0%), and 16 for Grippotyphosa (27.6%). Even without clinical suspicion of leptospirosis or a history of vaccination, the horses showed different frequency of seropositivity. Considering the well-known impact of leptospirosis in human and animal health, our results are important to establish preventive measures to reduce the economic loss in equine production as well as a reduction in public health risk.

Leptospira spp. é a bactéria causadora da leptospirose, uma doença endêmica, distribuída mundialmente, de caráter zoonótico responsável por gerar impacto sanitário e também econômico. Esse microrganismo, com característica espiralada, infecta mamíferos, dentre eles, os equinos. Estes animais, podem apresentar a doença na forma assintomáticos ou clínica. Desta forma, o atual estudo objetivou analisar amostras equinas na região de Santarém- Pará. Analisou-se 88 amostras de animais que não apresentavam histórico de vacinação contra a leptospirose, através da técnica da Microaglutinação Microscópica (MAT), utilizando um painel de13 sorovares, pertencentes a dez diferentes sorogrupos. Desses animais, 58 foram soropositivos (65,90%), distribuídos em 28 (48,3%) amostras soro reagentes para Pyrogenes, 24 (41,4%) para Autumnalis, 18 (31%) para Icterohaemorrhagiae e 16 (27,6%) para Grippotyphosa. Mesmo não havendo suspeita de leptospirose, os animais apresentaram diferentes frequências sorológicas. Considerando-se o conhecido impacto da leptospirose na saúde humana e animal, nossos resultados apontam que é de suma importância estabelecer medidas de prevenção para reduzir perdas econômicas e não oferecer riscos à saúde pública.

Environmental variability in simultaneous selection of common bean for grain quality and mineral concentration traits

The selection of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lines based on grain quality and mineral concentration traits will be more efficient if a minimum number of experiments is established. This study was carried out to determine whether grain quality and mineral concentration traits are significantly affected by the genotype × environment interaction; to estimate heritability and genetic gain in individual and combined experiments; and to select superior common bean lines considering a minimum number of experiments. A total of 17 common bean genotypes were evaluated in four experiments. Grain quality was determined through seven traits, and the concentration of six minerals was analyzed by acid digestion. Statistical analyses were completed using data obtained from both individual (I, II, III and IV) and combined (I and II; I, II and III; and I, II, III and IV) experiments. Except for the potassium concentration, all traits showed a significant genotype × environment interaction effect. Heritability and genetic gain estimates of grain quality and mineral concentration traits varied when the data were obtained from one or more experiments. Genetic gain may be inflated because of the data being based on one or two experiments. Four carioca bean (BRS MG Uai, LP 09-33, LEC 01-16 and Pérola) and four black bean (TB 02-19, CHP 04-239-52, TB 03-11 and IAC Netuno) genotypes were selected for their high grain quality and mineral concentration based on four experiments. Data from at least four experiments should be used to select common bean lines superior in grain quality and mineral concentration traits to increase the efficiency of simultaneous selection.

Multiparasitism in crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) (Carnivora: Canidae), including new records, in the Brazilian Pampa: case report / Multiparasitismo em graxaim-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous) (Carnivora: Canidae), incluindo novos registros, no Pampa brasileiro: relato de caso

Cerdocyon thous is considered the most common wild canid in Rio Grande do Sul, and can serve as a host for several parasites, playing an important role in maintaining the biological cycle. Despite being a widespread and abundant species, they have a relatively little-known fauna of endo and ectoparasites, mainly focusing on the different regions of their occurrence. With this work, the objective was to report the multiparasitism in a specimen of C. thous in the Brazilian Pampa. Using modified Centrifuge-Flotation and Spontaneous Sedimentation techniques, a high taxonomic diversity of parasites was observed, and the finding of eggs compatible with Lagochilascaris spp. in C. thous in Brazil, in addition to Uncinaria spp. eggs and Cystoisospora spp. oocysts in the same host in the south of the country. The presence of eggs of different helminths in the feces of C. thous is extremely important, mainly for public health, but also for the knowledge of the biodiversity of parasites present in wild populations of canids, until then little studied, thus allowing the implementation of control programs.

Cerdocyon thous é considerado o canídeo silvestre mais comum no Rio Grande do Sul e pode servir como hospedeiro de diversos parasitos, desempenhando papel importante na manutenção do ciclo biológico. Mesmo sendo uma espécie difundida e abundante, têm uma fauna de endo e ectoparasitos relativamente pouco conhecida, principalmente enfocando as diferentes regiões de sua ocorrência. Com este trabalho, objetivou-se relatar o multiparasitismo em um espécime de C. thous no Pampa brasileiro. Por meio das técnicas de centrifugo-flutuação modificada e sedimentação espontânea, observou-se uma alta diversidade taxonômica de parasitos, sendo relatado, pela primeira vez, o achado de ovos compatíveis com Lagochilascaris spp. em C. thous no Brasil, além de ovos de Uncinaria spp. e oocistos de Cystoisospora spp. no mesmo hospedeiro, no sul do país. A presença de ovos de diferentes helmintos nas fezes de C. thous é de extrema importância, principalmente na saúde pública, mas também para o conhecimento da biodiversidade de parasitos presentes em populações silvestres de canídeos, até então pouco estudados, permitindo, assim, a implementação de programas de controle.

Expandable polyethylene bag can improve fruit quality of pineapple cv. 'MD-2' / Saco de polietileno expansível pode melhorar a qualidade do abacaxi cv. 'MD-2'

ABSTRACT: Paper and plastic bags have been mainly used in fruit bagging of pineapple production. However, they are often discarded as agricultural wastes after harvest of pineapple fruit and threaten environment. In this study, effects of white non-woven fabric bag, expandable polyethylene bag, black plastic bag and kraft paper bag on fruit quality of pineapple cv. 'MD-2' were investigated. Results showed that fruits with fruit bagging showed no sunburn. When expandable polyethylene bag was used, fruits of pineapple cv. 'MD-2' showed better external qualities, nutrition qualities and texture properties. Expandable polyethylene bag made of degradable and recyclable materials could be recommended as a promising practice to reduce agricultural waste in pineapple production.

RESUMO: Sacos de papel e plástico têm sido usados principalmente no ensacamento de frutas na produção de abacaxi. No entanto, eles são frequentemente descartados como resíduos agrícolas, após a colheita da fruta do abacaxi, e ameaçam o meio ambiente. Neste estudo, os efeitos da sacola de tecido, não tecido branco, sacola de polietileno expansível, sacola plástica preta e sacola de papel artesanal na qualidade do fruto do abacaxi cv. 'MD-2' foram investigados. Os resultados mostraram que as frutas ensacadas não apresentaram queimaduras solares. Quando foi utilizada a bolsa de polietileno expansível, as frutas de abacaxi cv. 'MD-2' mostraram melhores qualidades externas, qualidades nutricionais e propriedades de textura. O saco de polietileno expansível feito de materiais degradáveis e recicláveis pode ser recomendado como uma prática promissora para reduzir o desperdício agrícola na produção de abacaxi.

In-house serological ELISA as a leishmaniosis diagnostic test: development and applications in canines from the western border of Brazil / ELISA "in house" para o diagnóstico de leishmaniose: desenvolvimento e aplicação em caninos da fronteira Oeste do Brasil

Leishmaniosis is a great public health problem affecting both humans and animals. The disease is caused by the protozoan Leishmania spp., which has a complex cycle involving a phlebotomine vector. The ELISA test (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) along with a chromatographic immunoassay was defined by the Brazil Health Ministry as the confirmatory screening protocol in 2011. Uruguaiana city is 630 km away from Porto Alegre, which makes it difficult to send samples and diagnose leishmaniasis, as well as receive quick results. In view of this, the present study evaluated an in-house indirect ELISA method compared to indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and dual-path platform chromatographic immunoassay (DPP-BioManguinhos®) for the detection of an immune response to Leishmania spp. in canine species. The serological evaluation included 48 canines from the western border of Brazil (Uruguaiana and Barra do Quaraí city). Among the 48 canine samples tested, 18 were positive when using the ELISA technique, 19 were positive with IFA, and 17 were positive with rapid test DPP®. The ELISA technique showed a sensitivity/specificity of 83.3%/86.7% when compared to IFA and 100%/96.8% compared to DPP®. The present study showed a prevalence of 37.5%, demonstrating that the infection circulates in the studied population. It can be concluded that the ELISA technique was valuable for use in field conditions when performing screening tests in endemic areas.

A leishmaniose é um grande problema de saúde pública que afeta tanto humanos quanto animais. A doença é causada pelo protozoário Leishmania spp., que possui um ciclo complexo envolvendo um vetor flebotomíneo. O teste ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), juntamente com um imunoensaio cromatográfico, foi definido pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil como protocolo de triagem confirmatória em 2011. A cidade de Uruguaiana fica a 630 km de Porto Alegre, o que dificulta o envio de amostras e o diagnóstico da leishmaniose, além da demora para obter os resultados. Diante disso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar um método de ELISA indireto in-house comparado ao ensaio de imunofluorescência indireta (IFA) e imunoensaio cromatográfico de plataforma de dupla via (DPP-BioManguinhos®) para a detecção de uma resposta imune contra Leishmania spp. na espécie canina. A avaliação sorológica incluiu 48 caninos da fronteira oeste do Brasil (cidade de Uruguaiana e Barra do Quaraí). Das 48 amostras caninas testadas, 18 foram positivas na técnica de ELISA, 19 foram positivas com IFA e 17 foram positivas com o teste rápido DPP®. A técnica de ELISA apresentou sensibilidade/especificidade de 83,3%/86,7% quando comparada ao IFA e 100%/96,8% em relação ao DPP®. O presente estudo apresentou prevalência de 37,5%, demonstrando que a infecção circula na população estudada. Pode-se concluir que a técnica de ELISA foi valiosa para uso em condições de campo na realização de testes de triagem em áreas endêmicas.

Southern Brazilian geographic distribution of Migonemyia migonei (Diptera: Psychodidae), a putative vector of Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae): a systematic review / Distribuição geográfica sul brasileira de Migonemyia migonei (Diptera: Psychodidae), um vetor putativo de Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae): uma revisão sistemática

This systematic review gathered information on the spatial distribution in southern Brazil of the sandfly Migonemyia migonei, a possible vector of Leishmania species that cause visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Articles were searched from the PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science, and Scopus databases using the keywords: "Migonemyia migonei AND Paraná", "Migonemyia migonei AND Santa Catarina", "Migonemyia migonei AND Rio Grande do Sul", "phlebotomine AND Parana", " flebotomíneo AND Paraná" and "sandfly AND Paraná", "phlebotomine AND Santa Catarina;", " flebotomíneo AND Santa Catarina" and "sandfly AND Santa Catarina", "phlebotomine AND Rio Grande do Sul;", " flebotomíneo AND Rio Grande do Sul", and "sandfly AND Rio Grande do Sul". The initial search identified 322 articles that met the selection criteria. Empty files or duplicated were then excluded. The titles were screened, and the full texts were obtained. This review included 36 articles, covering 72 of the 399 (18.04%) municipalities in Paraná state, one of the 295 (0.33%) in Santa Catarina, and two of the 497 (0.40%) in Rio Grande do Sul. Mg. migonei was found in 54 municipalities of Paraná state, in one municipality of Santa Catarina, and in one of Rio Grande do Sul. Based on the wide distribution of Mg. migonei in the municipalities of Paraná, greater monitoring is required regarding cases of VL in humans and animals in this region, in addition to epidemiological investigations of these cases of suspected autochthony, as well as increased prevention and control efforts. More studies on VL are required in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul.

Esta revisão sistemática reuniu informações sobre a distribuição espacial no sul do Brasil do flebotomíneo Migonemyia migonei, um possível vetor de espécies de Leishmania causadoras da leishmaniose visceral (LV). Os artigos foram pesquisados nas bases de dados PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science e Scopus usando as palavras-chave: "Migonemyia migonei AND Paraná", "Migonemyia migonei AND Santa Catarina", "Migonemyia migonei AND Rio Grande do Sul", "phlebotomine AND Parana" , "flebotomíneo AND Paraná" e "flebotomíneo AND Paraná", "flebotomíneo AND Santa Catarina;", "flebotomíneo AND Santa Catarina" e "flebotomíneo AND Santa Catarina", "flebotomíneo AND Rio Grande do Sul;", "flebotomíneo AND Rio Grande do Sul" e "sandfly AND Rio Grande do Sul". A busca inicial identificou 322 artigos que atenderam aos critérios de seleção. Em seguida, arquivos vazios ou duplicados foram excluídos. Os títulos foram triados e os textos completos foram obtidos. Esta revisão incluiu 36 artigos, abrangendo 72 dos 399 (18,04%) municípios do Paraná, um dos 295 (0,33%) de Santa Catarina, dois dos 497 (0,40%) do Rio Grande do Sul. Mg. migonei foi encontrado em 54 municípios do Paraná estado, em um município de Santa Catarina e em um do Rio Gr ande do Sul. Com base na ampla distribuição de Mg. migonei nos municípios paranaenses, é necessária maior atenção quanto aos casos de LV em humanos e animais, além de investigações epidemiológicas desses casos de suspeita de autoctonia, bem como maiores esforços de prevenção e controle. Mais estudos são necessários em Santa Catarina e Rio Grande do Sul.

Temporal variation in composition, abundance and biomass of the fish fauna after impact on subtropical transitional water

Transitional waters are characterized by large variations in salinity, temperature, turbidity, among other factors, such as tidal cycle, wind action and rainfall, that are constantly changing over time. The distribution of biota in these environments is regulated by these natural variations and also by human activities, such as pollution, overexploitation of resources, acceleration of urbanization, suppression of habitats and changes in hydrological dynamics. The objective of this study was to analyze the temporal dynamics of the fish fauna of the Saco dos Limões Cove, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, after the construction of a highway. Fish community was evaluated over five years by annual and monthly variation in species richness, abundance and biomass. A total of 17,993 individuals were collected, distributed in 33 families, 59 genera and 79 species. The evaluated years were similar to each other in species composition. Community descriptors varied over time but did not show seasonal trends. In all years, abundance was higher than biomass, indicating both the disturbance and the ecosystem function as a nursery in the studied area. This was corroborated by the large number of juveniles of dominant species (Genidens genidens, Eucinostomus gula and Eucinostomus argenteus).(AU)

Strategic diagnosis of a property specialized in breeding, rearing and finishing beef cattle in the southern region of Piauí

This study aimed to perform a strategic diagnosis on a property specialized in breeding, rearing and finishing beef cattle in the southern region of Piauí. It was conducted at Agropecuária Alvorada, located in the countryside, municipality of Bom Jesus, PI, Brazil. The farm develops the full cycle of beef cattle production, which is divided into breeding, rearing and finishing. A SWOT analysis (which stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) was carried out, consisting of an assessment of the property's internal and external environments. To evaluate the internal environment, an interview was held for data collection by means of questionnaires. The evaluation included: breeding management, sanitary management, nutritional management, infrastructure, workforce, technologies used in pasture formation, conservation and recovery, pasture management and zootechnical indices. To analyze the external environment, a group of people (experts) with deep knowledge of the subject addressed during the study was used as source of information. A matrix was generated with all the information from the SWOT analysis, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, culminating with the establishment of strategies to increase the productive efficiency of the cattle raising activity.(AU)

Genotypic selection of pre-clultivars of carioca and early carioca beans for the Agreste-Sertão of Pernambuco, Brazil / Seleção genotípica de pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e carioca precoce para o Agreste-Sertão de Pernambuco, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Genotype x environment interactions represent a major challenge in identifying and selecting genotypes responsive to different climate and soil conditions. This research evaluated and selected pre-cultivars of carioca bean and early carioca bean based on adaptability, stability, and grain yield. In the 2014 crop season, two regional competition trials were conducted in the state of Pernambuco: carioca beans (14 genotypes in Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru and São João) and early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Caruaru) and, in the 2015 crop season, with early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Brejão). Parameters were estimated by mixed models, and the selection was performed using the Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genetic Values (HMRPGV) method following three strategies: i) selection based on predicted genetic value with no interaction; ii) selection according to predicted genetic value considering each location; and iii) simultaneous selection for grain yield, adaptability, and stability. The environments influenced the phenotypic expression of the carioca and early carioca bean genotypes, representing a specific adaptation. The genotypes BRS Notável, BRS Estilo and BRS Pérola, of carioca beans, and CNFC 15875, BRS Notável and CNFC 15630, of early carioca beans, had the best results in the environments tested, regarding, simultaneously, adaptability to different soil and climate conditions, performance stability, and grain yield.

RESUMO: A interação genótipo x ambiente representa um grande desafio na identificação e seleção de genótipos responsivos às diversas condições de clima e solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar e selecionar pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e feijão carioca precoce com base na adaptabilidade, estabilidade e produtividade de grãos. Na safra 2014 foram conduzidos dois ensaios regionais de competição no estado de Pernambuco: feijão carioca (14 genótipos em Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru e São João) e feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos em Araripina, Arcoverde e Caruaru) e na safra de 2015 com feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos, em Araripina, Arcoverde e Brejão). Os parâmetros foram estimados por meio de modelos mistos e a seleção foi realizada pelo método da Média Harmônica do Desempenho Relativo dos Valores Genéticos (MHPRVG), adotando-se três estratégias: i) seleção com base no valor genético predito, sem interação; ii) seleção com base no valor genético predito, considerando cada local; iii) seleção simultânea quanto à produtividade de grãos, adaptabilidade e estabilidade. Observou-se que os ambientes influenciaram na expressão fenotípica dos genótipos de feijão carioca e carioca precoce, configurando adaptação específica. Os genótipos BRS Notável, BRS Estilo e BRS Pérola, de feijão carioca, e CNFC 15875, BRS Notável e CNFC 15630, de feijão carioca precoce, apresentaram os melhores desempenhos nos ambientes testados, considerando-se, simultaneamente, a adaptabilidade a diferentes condições edafoclimáticas, estabilidade de desempenho e produtividade de grãos.