Can farmers' combined-tillage promote the agricultural production efficiency? - Evidence from land fragmentation / O plantio combinado dos agricultores pode promover a eficiência da produção agrícola? - Evidência da fragmentação da terra

With the gradual transfer of an enormous young and middle age labor force from agricultural field to non-agricultural sectors, the negative role of land fragmentation (LF), which is related to food security, is increasingly reflecting in the process of agricultural modernization. Meanwhile, the positive roles of farmers' combined-tillage in production are gradually emerging. Based on the above background, this study explained the relationship among farmers' combined-tillage, LF and agricultural production efficiency (APE). The study used survey date and the SFA-QR model to empirically investigate the effects of LF and farmers' combined-tillage on APE. Furthermore, this article analyzed the moderating effect of farmers' combined-tillage on the relationship between LF and APE. The results demonstrated that: (1) Farmers combined-tillage improves the APE significantly, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (2) LF has a negative impact on APE, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (3) Combined-tillage could alleviate the adverse effects of LF on APE. In this regard, the paper also proposed some suggestions to face the adverse effects of LF and promote farmers' combined-tillage in production.

Com a transferência gradual de enorme força de trabalho jovem e de meia idade do campo agrícola para os setores não agrícolas, o papel negativo da fragmentação da terra (LF), relacionada à segurança alimentar, está cada vez mais refletido no processo de modernização agrícola. Enquanto isso, os papéis positivos da lavoura combinada dos agricultores na produção estão surgindo gradualmente. Com base no histórico acima, o objetivo deste estudo é explicar a relação entre o plantio direto dos agricultores, LF e eficiência da produção agrícola (APE). O estudo usou dados do levantamento e o modelo SFA-QR para investigar empiricamente os efeitos da FL e do plantio direto dos agricultores sobre o APE. Além disso, este artigo analisou o efeito moderador do plantio combinado dos agricultores na relação entre LF e APE. Os resultados demonstram que: (1) A lavoura combinada dos agricultores melhora significativamente o APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (2) LF tem um impacto negativo na APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (3) A lavoura combinada pode aliviar os efeitos adversos do LF no APE. Nesse sentido, o trabalho também propõe algumas sugestões para enfrentar os efeitos adversos da FL e promover o plantio combinado dos agricultores na produção.

Can farmers' combined-tillage promote the agricultural production efficiency? - Evidence from land fragmentation / O plantio combinado dos agricultores pode promover a eficiência da produção agrícola? - Evidência da fragmentação da terra

ABSTRACT: With the gradual transfer of an enormous young and middle age labor force from agricultural field to non-agricultural sectors, the negative role of land fragmentation (LF), which is related to food security, is increasingly reflecting in the process of agricultural modernization. Meanwhile, the positive roles of farmers' combined-tillage in production are gradually emerging. Based on the above background, this study explained the relationship among farmers' combined-tillage, LF and agricultural production efficiency (APE). The study used survey date and the SFA-QR model to empirically investigate the effects of LF and farmers' combined-tillage on APE. Furthermore, this article analyzed the moderating effect of farmers' combined-tillage on the relationship between LF and APE. The results demonstrated that: (1) Farmers combined-tillage improves the APE significantly, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (2) LF has a negative impact on APE, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (3) Combined-tillage could alleviate the adverse effects of LF on APE. In this regard, the paper also proposed some suggestions to face the adverse effects of LF and promote farmers' combined-tillage in production.

RESUMO: Com a transferência gradual de enorme força de trabalho jovem e de meia idade do campo agrícola para os setores não agrícolas, o papel negativo da fragmentação da terra (LF), relacionada à segurança alimentar, está cada vez mais refletido no processo de modernização agrícola. Enquanto isso, os papéis positivos da lavoura combinada dos agricultores na produção estão surgindo gradualmente. Com base no histórico acima, o objetivo deste estudo é explicar a relação entre o plantio direto dos agricultores, LF e eficiência da produção agrícola (APE). O estudo usou dados do levantamento e o modelo SFA-QR para investigar empiricamente os efeitos da FL e do plantio direto dos agricultores sobre o APE. Além disso, este artigo analisou o efeito moderador do plantio combinado dos agricultores na relação entre LF e APE. Os resultados demonstram que: (1) A lavoura combinada dos agricultores melhora significativamente o APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (2) LF tem um impacto negativo na APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (3) A lavoura combinada pode aliviar os efeitos adversos do LF no APE. Nesse sentido, o trabalho também propõe algumas sugestões para enfrentar os efeitos adversos da FL e promover o plantio combinado dos agricultores na produção.

Genetic structure simulation for Hancornia speciosa populations in Northeast Brazil / Simulação da estrutura genética de populações de Hancornia speciosa no nordeste brasileiro

ABSTRACT: Mangaba tree is a fruit tree species whose natural populations are fragmented by anthropic actions. For this reason, studies assessing the impact of fragmentation on the diversity and genetic structure of these populations are required in order to establish suitable conservation strategies. In our study, we used data from analyzes through microsatellite markers in computer simulations to estimate the rates of migration and selfing of six mangaba populations. The studied populations are located in the northeastern states of Ceará, Pernambuco and Sergipe. We tested different selfing and migration rates and selected the combination that showed values of observed and expected heterozygosity closest to those previously obtained with microsatellite markers. According to our simulations, selfing and migration were moderate. This may have led to an increase in inbreeding and genetic drift, resulting in low genetic diversity. We recommend expanding the area and reducing disturbance to promote the occurrence of pollinators, which play an important role in increasing genetic diversity.

RESUMO: A mangabeira é uma espécie frutífera cujas populações naturais se encontram fragmentadas por ações antrópicas. Desse modo, são necessários estudos sobre a avaliação do impacto da fragmentação sobre a diversidade e estrutura genética dessas populações para o estabelecimento de estratégias de conservação adequadas. No presente estudo, foram utilizados dados de análises com marcadores microssatélites em simulações computacionais para estimar as taxas de migração e autofecundação de seis populações de mangaba. As populações estudadas estão localizadas nos estados nordestinos do Ceará, Pernambuco e Sergipe. Foram testadas diferentes taxas de autofecundação e migração, e selecionada a combinação que apresentou valores de heterozigosidade observada e esperada mais próximos dos obtidos com marcadores microssatélites. Com base nas simulações, a autofecundação foi de 0,3 e a taxa de migração variou de 0,5 a 0,6, valores que podem ter conduzido ao aumento da endogamia e deriva genética, resultando em baixa diversidade genética. Recomenda-se a expansão da área e a redução de perturbações para promover a ocorrência de polinizadores, que desempenham um papel importante no aumento da diversidade genética.

Genetic structure simulation for Hancornia speciosa populations in Northeast Brazil / Simulação da estrutura genética de populações de Hancornia speciosa no nordeste brasileiro

Mangaba tree is a fruit tree species whose natural populations are fragmented by anthropic actions. For this reason, studies assessing the impact of fragmentation on the diversity and genetic structure of these populations are required in order to establish suitable conservation strategies. In our study, we used data from analyzes through microsatellite markers in computer simulations to estimate the rates of migration and selfing of six mangaba populations. The studied populations are located in the northeastern states of Ceará, Pernambuco and Sergipe. We tested different selfing and migration rates and selected the combination that showed values of observed and expected heterozygosity closest to those previously obtained with microsatellite markers. According to our simulations, selfing and migration were moderate. This may have led to an increase in inbreeding and genetic drift, resulting in low genetic diversity. We recommend expanding the area and reducing disturbance to promote the occurrence of pollinators, which play an important role in increasing genetic diversity.

A mangabeira é uma espécie frutífera cujas populações naturais se encontram fragmentadas por ações antrópicas. Desse modo, são necessários estudos sobre a avaliação do impacto da fragmentação sobre a diversidade e estrutura genética dessas populações para o estabelecimento de estratégias de conservação adequadas. No presente estudo, foram utilizados dados de análises com marcadores microssatélites em simulações computacionais para estimar as taxas de migração e autofecundação de seis populações de mangaba. As populações estudadas estão localizadas nos estados nordestinos do Ceará, Pernambuco e Sergipe. Foram testadas diferentes taxas de autofecundação e migração, e selecionada a combinação que apresentou valores de heterozigosidade observada e esperada mais próximos dos obtidos com marcadores microssatélites. Com base nas simulações, a autofecundação foi de 0,3 e a taxa de migração variou de 0,5 a 0,6, valores que podem ter conduzido ao aumento da endogamia e deriva genética, resultando em baixa diversidade genética. Recomenda-se a expansão da área e a redução de perturbações para promover a ocorrência de polinizadores, que desempenham um papel importante no aumento da diversidade genética.

Endangered flora in protected areas of Rio de Janeiro municipality ­ Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil

This study presents a qualitative analysis of endangered species occurrences in conservation units of Rio de Janeiro, one of the largest Brazilian municipalities in population size. Increasing human activities trigger changes in biodiversity, promote fragmentation, and reduce species distribution ranges, which can ultimately lead to declines in population sizes. One of the main goals of protected areas (PAs), such as conservation units, is to protect and conserve biodiversity. Here, we compiled all vascular plant species recorded within Rio de Janeiro PAs by consulting the Reference Center for Environmental Information (SpeciesLink), Flora do Brasil (2020), and primary data records contained in management plans. We compared this compilation with the list of Brazilian endangered plant species, verifying whether the management plans presented specific programs for these species. Of the 60 surveyed PAs, 24 had records of endangered species and only 17 had management plans, 14 of which had a specific program that contemplated the monitoring and/or conservation of endangered species. A total of 70 endangered species were recorded. The highest numbers of endangered species were found in the Tijuca National Park (41) and the Pedra Branca State Park (17), the two largest PAs with the two largest forest fragments. Despite the high number of endangered species and the number of protected areas that harbor them, few internal programs address endangered species conservation and management. Thus, efforts to maintain endangered species in protected areas can be aided by field data collections that confirm their occurrence and maintenance in these PAs.(AU)

Breeding behavioral activities of captive red pandas in Nepal

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) population is decreasing, with less than 10,000 individuals in the wild because of habitat destruction, fragmentation, and illegal hunting. Captive breeding has become an increasingly crucial strategy for conserving endangered species, but efforts to generate self-sustaining populations have failed despite ample resources being allocated. Animals are often stressed in captivity, and it is necessary to examine reproductive behavior relating to the complexity of habitat requirements, dietary preferences, and, in particular, pregnant mothers and their sensitivity to disruptions. Using videography, we observed the reproductive behavior of two red pandas along with other behavioral activities in the Central Zoo, Kathmandu, Nepal. We collected behavioral data from December 2020 to June 2021 using scan and focal sampling. Reproductive behaviors (e.g., scent-marking, allogrooming, chasing, running, aggressiveness, mating, and feeding feces) were observed, along with behaviors like locomotion, climbing, standing, self-grooming, feeding, sleeping, self-play, and stretching. We observed 1­2% of reproductive behavior from total activity. Copulation was attempted on three occasions suggesting reproduction can be successful if animal husbandry is properly managed. We recommend zoo managers further refine strategies for captive breeding endangered species such as red pandas. Successful captive breeding benefits the zoo, and captive-born animals can mitigate extinction in the wild.

Curcumin exerts its antioxidant and neuroprotective effects against aluminum-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in male albino rats

Aluminum is a neurotoxicant and one of the most harmful metals in the environment; it is producing tissue inflammation and oxidative stress. Curcumin is an effective antioxidant and neuroprotective compound with medicinal potential. Curcumin's effect on AL toxicity was investigated in this study. Two groups of 70 mature adult albino rats were used, each of which was subdivided into five groups: Control, Vehicle, Curcumin, Aluminum, and Curcumin + Aluminum group. For two periods of 20 and 40 days, animal models were administered orally AlCl3 (20 mg kg-1 bw) and/or Curcumin (100 mg kg-1 bw). In the cerebral cortex, aluminum caused a significant rise (p < 0.05) in lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation, as well as a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. In the brain hippocampus, aluminum caused a major reduction (p < 0.05) in neurotransmitters (dopamine and serotonin), while Acetylcholine esterase activity increased sharply (p < 0.05). Aluminum also triggered histological analyses in the hippocampus of the brain. Curcumin co-administration considerably reduced the increase in lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation, but also enhanced the depletion of antioxidant enzymes. Curcumin also reversed the decline in neurotransmitters, the increase in Acetylcholine esterase, and the distortion in the brain hippocampus.(AU)

Dimethyl acetamide and dimethyl sulfoxide associated at glucose and egg yolk for cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen

This study aimed to develop a protocol for the cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen. For this, mature males were hormonally induced with a single dose of carp pituitary extract (5 mg/kg body weight). Semen was collected and evaluated. Two cryoprotectants were tested to compose the diluents: dimethyl acetamide (DMA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO), in two concentrations (8% and 10%), + 5.0% glucose + 10% egg yolk. The semen was diluted in a 1: 4 ratio (semen: extender), packed in 0.5 mL straws and frozen in a dry shipper container in liquid nitrogen vapors. After thawing, sperm kinetics, sperm morphology and DNA integrity of cryopreserved sperm were evaluated. Pseudoplatystoma corruscans males produced semen with sperm motility > 80%. After thawing, all treatments provided semen with total sperm motility > 40%, with no significant difference (P < 0.05) between them, as well as between the other sperm kinetic parameters evaluated. The treatments with DMA provided a smaller fragmentation of the DNA of the gametes. Sperm malformations were identified in both fresh and cryopreserved semen, with a slight increase in these malformations being identified in sperm from thawed P. corruscans semen samples.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver um protocolo para a criopreservação do sêmen de Pseudoplatystoma corruscans. Para tal, machos maduros foram induzidos hormonalmente com uma dose única de extrato de hipófise de carpa (5 mg/kg de peso vivo). O sêmen foi coletado e avaliado. Sendo testados para compor os diluentes, dois crioprotetores: dimetil acetamida (DMA) e dimetil sulfóxido (Me2SO), em duas concentrações (8% e 10%), + 5,0% glicose + 10% gema de ovo. O sêmen foi diluído na proporção 1: 4 (sêmen: extensor), embalado em palhetas de 0,5 mL e congelado em container dryshipper em vapores de nitrogênio líquido. Após o descongelamento, foram avaliados os aspectos cinéticos espermáticos, a morfologia espermática e a integridade do DNA dos espermatozoides criopreservados. Os machos de P. corruscans produziram sêmen com motilidade espermática > 80%. Todos os tratamentos proporcionaram após o descongelamento sêmen com motilidade espermática total > 40%, sem diferença significativa (P < 0,05) entre eles, como também entre os demais parâmetros cinéticos espermáticos avaliados. Os tratamentos com DMA proporcionaram uma menor fragmentação do DNA dos gametas. Malformações espermáticas foram identificadas, tanto no sêmen fresco, como no criopreservado, sendo identificado um aumento discreto dessas malformações nos espermatozoides das amostras de sêmen descongeladas de P. corruscans.(AU)

Structure and chemical nature of intercellular protuberances in Dennstaedtiaceae rhizomes (Polypodiopsida)

Intercellular protuberances (IPs) are projections on the cell surface and have been reported for families of ferns, Gymnosperms, and Angiosperms. Data on the type, chemical composition, and distribution of these structures among vascular plants are still scarce. Here, we investigate the occurrence, distribution, type of IPs among species of eight Dennstaedtiaceae genera and verify the taxonomic significance of these protuberances in the family. Rhizomes of 23 species of Dennstaedtiaceae from field and herbaria collections were analyzed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Histochemical tests were performed to identify the main classes of IPs chemical compounds. Two types of IPs were observed in Dennstaedtiaceae species: strand and filament types. They were observed in the intercellular spaces of the parenchyma in the cortex and pith regions. Overall, protuberances are irregularly shaped, with angustate or spheroidal apices. Their polysaccharide nature and pectic constitution were confirmed by histochemical tests. Concerning Pteridium arachnoideum (Kaulf.) Maxon subsp. arachnoideum, IPs have confirmed phenolic composition. Evidence indicates that IPs in Dennstaedtiaceae originate from the fragmentation of the middle lamella and that they have a structural function as well as protection against pathogens. In lateral-line aerenchyma, the occurrence of filament-type IPs may be related to the larger intercellular spacing in the cortex region, providing greater mechanical resistance. We have expanded the data on the occurrence of IPs in the Dennstaedtiaceae, which appear to be notable characters for the family. Moreover, the data presented herein confirmed the polysaccharide and pectic nature of these structures. However, we were unable to find links between IPs and taxonomy and evolution of the Dennstaedtiaceae. On the other hand, different IPs types were identified between the clades Dennstaedtioideae (strand-type IPs) and Hypolepidoideae (filament-type IPs, with exceptions).(AU)

What is known so far about bull sperm protamination: a review

Sperm routinary fitness evaluation is not sufficient to predict bull reproductive capacity as they present differences in fertility up to 40%. Among the defects which compromise spermatozoa functionality, new approaches consider the study of sperm chromatin, which is the core structure containing paternal genetic information. Sperm chromatin needs to be compacted to maintain the integrity of DNA, which occurs by binding nucleoproteins with high affinity to DNA. In the last stages of sperm maturation, chromatin is hyper-compacted by basic proteins called protamines in a process named protamination. In this review, we summarized intrinsic and extrinsic factors that are suggested to influence protamination in bull spermatozoa, considering old and new evidence from human and murine spermatozoa. Also, the current approaches to evaluate bull protamination and its relationship with fertility were described. Nevertheless, the physiological mechanisms of protamination are still poorly understood.(AU)

Use of melatonin as an inhibitor of apoptotic process for cryopreservation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos

Abstract This study investigated the use of melatonin to arrest the effects of apoptosis in vitrified zebrafish (D. rerio) embryos. Dechorionated embryos at 22-24 somite-stage were divided (n = 60/treatment) into a non-vitrified (Control Group, 0 M melatonin) and vitrified treatments with 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) and 1 mM of melatonin (T3). For vitrified treatments, a solution methanol/propylene glycol based was used and the embryos stored in -196 °C for a week. After thaw, survival rate, scanning electron microscopy, expression of anti (bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic (bax/caspase-3) genes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and DNA fragmentation analyses were performed. No live embryos were obtained from vitrified treatments, observing a rapid degeneration immediately after thawing, with the vitelline layer rupture and leakage of its content, followed by breakdown of epithelial cells and melanisation of the tissue. Regarding the apoptotic process, T3 had the highest relative gene expression, for the three genes (P 0.05) furthermore, T2 had similar expression of pro-apoptotic genes to CG (P 0.05). ROS formation revealed that CG presented lower percentage of embryo surface area affected (3.80 ± 0.40%) (P 0.05), in contrast, no differences were found among the other groups. T1 was most significantly (P 0.05) damaged by DNA fragmentation. The vitrified groups with melatonin had similar damage levels of CG (P > 0.05). The inclusion of 1 µM of melatonin in the vitrifying solution, countered the effects of apoptotic process in post-thaw embryos, suggesting its utility in cryopreserving fish embryos.

Resumo Este estudo investigou o uso da melatonina para conter os efeitos da apoptose em embriões vitrificados de zebrafish (D. rerio). Embriões descorionados no estágio de 22-24 somitos foram divididos (n = 60 / tratamento) em tratamento não vitrificado (Grupo Controle, melatonina 0 M) e tratamentos vitrificados com 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) e 1 mM de melatonina (T3). Para os tratamentos vitrificados, utilizou-se uma solução à base de metanol/propilenoglicol e os embriões foram armazenados em -196 °C por uma semana. Após o descongelamento, foram realizadas análises de taxa de sobrevivência, microscopia eletrônica de varredura, expressão dos genes anti (bcl-2) e pró-apoptóticos (bax/caspase-3), formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio (EROS) e análises de fragmentação de DNA. Não foram obtidos embriões vivos a partir dos tratamentos vitrificados, observando uma rápida degeneração imediatamente após o descongelamento, com ruptura da camada vitelina e vazamento de seu conteúdo, seguida de quebra das células epiteliais e melanização do tecido. Em relação ao processo apoptótico. T3 apresentou expressão gênica relativa alta para os três genes (P 0,05), além disso, T2 apresentou expressão semelhante as dos genes pró-apoptóticos de GC (P 0,05). A formação de EROS revelou que GC apresentou menor percentual de área de superfície embrionária afetada (3,80 ± 0,40%) (P 0,05), ao contrário, não foram encontradas diferenças entre os outros grupos. T1 foi mais significativamente (P 0,05) danificado pela fragmentação do DNA. Os grupos vitrificados com melatonina apresentaram níveis de dano semelhantes ao do GC (P> 0,05). A inclusão de 1 µM de melatonina na solução de vitrificação, contrariou os efeitos do processo apoptótico em embriões pós-descongelamento, sugerindo sua utilidade na criopreservação de embriões de peixes.

Antimicrobial activity and partial chemical structure of acylpolyamines isolated from the venom of the spider Acanthoscurria natalensis

Abstract Background: Acylpolyamines are one of the main non-peptide compounds present in spider venom and represent a promising alternative in the search for new molecules with antimicrobial action. Methods: The venom of Acanthoscurria natalensis spider was fractionated by reverse-phase liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and the antimicrobial activity of the fractions was tested using a liquid growth inhibition assay. The main antimicrobial fraction containing acylpolyamines (ApAn) was submitted to two additional chromatographic steps and analyzed by MALDI-TOF. Fractions of interest were accumulated for ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy and ESI-MS/MS analysis and for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and hemolytic activity determination. Results: Five acylpolyamines were isolated from the venom with molecular masses between 614 Da and 756 Da, being named ApAn728, ApAn614a, ApAn614b, ApAn742 and ApAn756. The analysis of UV absorption profile of each ApAn and the fragmentation pattern obtained by ESI-MS/MS suggested the presence of a tyrosyl unit as chromophore and a terminal polyamine chain consistent with structural units PA43 or PA53. ApAn presented MIC between 128 µM and 256 µM against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, without causing hemolysis against mouse erythrocytes. Conclusion: The antimicrobial and non-hemolytic properties of the analyzed ApAn may be relevant for their application as possible therapeutic agents and the identification of an unconventional chromophore for spider acylpolyamines suggests an even greater chemical diversity.

Use of melatonin as an inhibitor of apoptotic process for cryopreservation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos / Uso da melatonina como inibidor do processo apoptotico para a criopreservação de embriões de zebrafish (Danio rerio)

This study investigated the use of melatonin to arrest the effects of apoptosis in vitrified zebrafish (D. rerio) embryos. Dechorionated embryos at 22-24 somite-stage were divided (n = 60/treatment) into a non-vitrified (Control Group, 0 M melatonin) and vitrified treatments with 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) and 1 mM of melatonin (T3). For vitrified treatments, a solution methanol/propylene glycol based was used and the embryos stored in -196 °C for a week. After thaw, survival rate, scanning electron microscopy, expression of anti (bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic (bax/caspase-3) genes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and DNA fragmentation analyses were performed. No live embryos were obtained from vitrified treatments, observing a rapid degeneration immediately after thawing, with the vitelline layer rupture and leakage of its content, followed by breakdown of epithelial cells and melanisation of the tissue. Regarding the apoptotic process, T3 had the highest relative gene expression, for the three genes (P < 0.05) furthermore, T2 had similar expression of pro-apoptotic genes to CG (P < 0.05). ROS formation revealed that CG presented lower percentage of embryo surface area affected (3.80 ± 0.40%) (P < 0.05), in contrast, no differences were found among the other groups. T1 was most significantly (P < 0.05) damaged by DNA fragmentation. The vitrified groups with melatonin had similar damage levels of CG (P > 0.05). The inclusion of 1 µM of melatonin in the vitrifying solution, countered the effects of apoptotic process in post-thaw embryos, suggesting its utility in cryopreserving fish embryos.

Este estudo investigou o uso da melatonina para conter os efeitos da apoptose em embriões vitrificados de zebrafish (D. rerio). Embriões descorionados no estágio de 22-24 somitos foram divididos (n = 60 / tratamento) em tratamento não vitrificado (Grupo Controle, melatonina 0 M) e tratamentos vitrificados com 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) e 1 mM de melatonina (T3). Para os tratamentos vitrificados, utilizou-se uma solução à base de metanol/propilenoglicol e os embriões foram armazenados em -196 °C por uma semana. Após o descongelamento, foram realizadas análises de taxa de sobrevivência, microscopia eletrônica de varredura, expressão dos genes anti (bcl-2) e pró-apoptóticos (bax/caspase-3), formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio (EROS) e análises de fragmentação de DNA. Não foram obtidos embriões vivos a partir dos tratamentos vitrificados, observando uma rápida degeneração imediatamente após o descongelamento, com ruptura da camada vitelina e vazamento de seu conteúdo, seguida de quebra das células epiteliais e melanização do tecido. Em relação ao processo apoptótico. T3 apresentou expressão gênica relativa alta para os três genes (P <0,05), além disso, T2 apresentou expressão semelhante as dos genes pró-apoptóticos de GC (P <0,05). A formação de EROS revelou que GC apresentou menor percentual de área de superfície embrionária afetada (3,80 ± 0,40%) (P <0,05), ao contrário, não foram encontradas diferenças entre os outros grupos. T1 foi mais significativamente (P <0,05) danificado pela fragmentação do DNA. Os grupos vitrificados com melatonina apresentaram níveis de dano semelhantes ao do GC (P> 0,05). A inclusão de 1 µM de melatonina na solução de vitrificação, contrariou os efeitos do processo apoptótico em embriões pós-descongelamento, sugerindo sua utilidade na criopreservação de embriões de peixes.

Morphometry of fruits and pyrenes in two morphotypes and populations of Butia purpurascens Glassman (Arecaceae) / Morfometria de frutos e pirênios em dois morfotipos e populações de Butia purpurascens Glassman (Arecaceae)

Morphometry of fruits and seeds is a useful and important information for phenotyping and genetic characterization of crop plant species and, for conservation of endangered species, as is the case of Butia purpurascens Glassman. In this study, we determined comparatively the morphometric features of fruits and pyrenes between yellow and magenta B. purpurascens morphotypes, located in four different sites (populations). We processed 1380 fruits collected from 69 individuals. We evaluated the length, width and weight of the fruits and pyrenes, the fresh and dry pulp mass, and percentage of pulp moisture. Yellow morph showed larger and heavier fruits than magenta morph. Morphometric differences were also evident among the four populations, suggesting that ecosystems fragmentation can cause deleterious genetic effects in B. purpurascens in long-term.

A morfometria de frutos e sementes é uma informação útil e importante para fenotipagem e caracterização genética de espécies vegetais com potencial econômico e, para a conservação de espécies ameaçadas, como é o caso de Butia purpurascens. Nesse estudo, determinamos comparativamente as características morfométricas de frutos e pirênios entre morfotipos amarelo e magenta de B. purpurascens, localizados em quatro localidades diferentes (populações). Beneficiamos 1380 frutos, coletados em 69 indivíduos. Avaliamos o comprimento, largura e o peso dos frutos e pirênios, a massa fresca e seca da polpa, e a porcentagem de umidade da polpa. O morfotipo amarelo apresentou frutos maiores e mais pesados do que o morfotipo magenta. Diferenças morfométricas também foram notórias entre as quatro populações, sugerindo que a fragmentação de ecossistemas pode causar efeitos genéticos deletérios em B. purpurascens ao longo do tempo.

Clinical and arthroscopic presentation of horses with osteochondral fragmentation at metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints: a 10-year study (2010-2019) / Caracterização clínica e artroscópica de equinos com fragmentação osteocondral em articulações metacarpofalangeana e metatarsofalangeana: estudo de 10 anos (2010-2019)

This study aimed to characterize the clinical and arthroscopic presentations of horses with osteochondral fragmentation at the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints at the Veterinary Hospital of the University of São Paulo in a 10-year period (2010-2019). The hind limbs were affected similarly to the plantar and dorsal fragments from the first phalanx, while the thoracic limbs had a more frequent occurrence on the dorsal aspect of the joint. The Brazilian Sport Horses were the most frequently observed breed. The degree of lameness was variable and might be related to fragment localization, animal age, and physical activity. There was a significant statistical difference between the joint effusion and degree of lameness; therefore, it can be considered that the joint effusion is related to degenerative joint processes and might be triggered by the presence of the osteochondral fragment. Surgical correction, especially when performed in young animals using an arthroscopic procedure is probably the best treatment option for most cases, possibly acting as a minimizer of the occurrence of secondary joint degeneration. Prospective studies of specific breeds with a larger number of animals can expand this clinical characterization and enable a better understanding of the animal's recovery after surgical or conservative management.

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a apresentação clínica e artroscópica de equinos com fragmentação osteocondral em articulação metacarpo/metatarsofalangeana atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade de São Paulo, no período de 10 anos (2010-2019). Os membros pélvicos são mais acometidos com fragmentos plantaromediais da primeira falange, enquanto os membros torácicos apresentam uma caracterização de ocorrência de fragmentação dorsal da primeira falange, sendo o Brasileiro de Hipismo a raça de maior ocorrência nesta casuística. O grau de claudicação foi variável e pode relacionar-se com a localização do fragmento, a idade e o nível de atividade atlética desenvolvida. Houve relação estatística significativa entre a presença de efusão articular e o grau de claudicação, por isso suscita-se sobre a efusão relacionar-se com processos degenerativos articulares que podem ser desencadeados pela presença do fragmento osteocondral. A correção cirúrgica por meio de procedimento artroscópico provavelmente consiste na melhor opção de tratamento para a maioria dos casos, principalmente quando realizada em animais jovens, possivelmente atuando como minimizador da ocorrência de degeneração articular secundária. Estudos prospectivos de raças específicas e com um número maior de animais podem ampliar essa caracterização clínica e possibilitar um entendimento sobre a evolução após a opção ou não pelo tratamento cirúrgico.

Natural regeneration in Atlantic Forest Fragments: using ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) for monitoring a conservation unit

The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is considered one of the most threatened tropical forests in the world due to the extensive environmental impact it has endured throughout history. Only 12.4% of its original vegetation is estimated to remain. Even though reduced and highly fragmented, it houses enormous biodiversity, and its preservation is paramount to the maintenance of the country's fauna, flora, funga and microbiota. One of the most efficient measures adopted by public agencies aimed at protecting biodiversity has been the creation of conservation units. To evaluate the preservation state of protected areas, several environmental studies have been performed; species inventories are one among them. Ants are excellent bioindicators, for they are not only sensitive to environmental changes, but they also have a history of being used in impact assessment (i.e., fragmentation). In this study we assessed the ant communities inhabiting the leaf litter in areas with different regeneration states at the RPPN Botujuru ­ Serra do Itapety (Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo ­ Brazil). Mini-Winkler traps were used in the ant survey, and diversity analyses were performed. In total, we recorded 86 species of ants, with a highlight to Camponotus cillae Forel, 1912, a species that remained unrecorded for the state of São Paulo for over 100 years, and a possible new species of Octostruma Forel, 1912. Overall, the species found show that the areas are in the process of natural regeneration. Our data on RPPN Botujuru is unprecedented, and our species list has the potential of being used as an effective monitoring tool for this conservation unit.(AU)

Perspectives and challenges on isotopic ecology of terrestrial birds in Brazil

Although stable isotopes have been increasingly used in ornithology since 1980 in many places, Brazil has been slow in adopting this methodology, especially when it comes to terrestrial birds. The most common elements in bird ecology studies are carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen stable isotopes, which provide information on diet, trophic interactions, habitat use, migration, geographic patterns, and physiology. It is important that Brazilian ornithologists become aware of the potential of stable isotope analysis in ecological studies, and the shortcomings of this tool. The use of stable isotopes to study bird ecology has great potential in Brazil, since many ecological questions about Neotropical birds can be addressed by it (e.g., resource and habitat use, migratory routes, isotopic niches, anthropogenic impacts, individual specialization). Brazilian museums and other Natural History collections can provide samples to study long-term temporal dynamics in bird ecology. Additionally, the integration of avian tissue sample information into a database may increase the collaboration among researchers and promote sample reuse in a variety of studies. All biomes in Brazil have been under pressure from anthropogenic impacts (e.g., land-use change, habitat loss, fragmentation, intensive agriculture), affecting several taxa, including terrestrial birds. Considering the negative effects of human expansion over natural areas and that stable isotopes provide useful ecological information, ornithologists in Brazil should increase their use of this tool in the future.(AU)

Use of melatonin as an inhibitor of apoptotic process for cryopreservation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos / Uso da melatonina como inibidor do processo apoptotico para a criopreservação de embriões de zebrafish (Danio rerio)

This study investigated the use of melatonin to arrest the effects of apoptosis in vitrified zebrafish (D. rerio) embryos. Dechorionated embryos at 22-24 somite-stage were divided (n = 60/treatment) into a non-vitrified (Control Group, 0 M melatonin) and vitrified treatments with 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) and 1 mM of melatonin (T3). For vitrified treatments, a solution methanol/propylene glycol based was used and the embryos stored in -196 °C for a week. After thaw, survival rate, scanning electron microscopy, expression of anti (bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic (bax/caspase-3) genes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and DNA fragmentation analyses were performed. No live embryos were obtained from vitrified treatments, observing a rapid degeneration immediately after thawing, with the vitelline layer rupture and leakage of its content, followed by breakdown of epithelial cells and melanisation of the tissue. Regarding the apoptotic process, T3 had the highest relative gene expression, for the three genes (P < 0.05) furthermore, T2 had similar expression of pro-apoptotic genes to CG (P < 0.05). ROS formation revealed that CG presented lower percentage of embryo surface area affected (3.80 ± 0.40%) (P < 0.05), in contrast, no differences were found among the other groups. T1 was most significantly (P < 0.05) damaged by DNA fragmentation. The vitrified groups with melatonin had similar damage levels of CG (P > 0.05). The inclusion of 1 µM of melatonin in the vitrifying solution, countered the effects of apoptotic process in post-thaw embryos, suggesting its utility in cryopreserving fish embryos.(AU)

Este estudo investigou o uso da melatonina para conter os efeitos da apoptose em embriões vitrificados de zebrafish (D. rerio). Embriões descorionados no estágio de 22-24 somitos foram divididos (n = 60 / tratamento) em tratamento não vitrificado (Grupo Controle, melatonina 0 M) e tratamentos vitrificados com 0 M (T1), 1 µM (T2) e 1 mM de melatonina (T3). Para os tratamentos vitrificados, utilizou-se uma solução à base de metanol/propilenoglicol e os embriões foram armazenados em -196 °C por uma semana. Após o descongelamento, foram realizadas análises de taxa de sobrevivência, microscopia eletrônica de varredura, expressão dos genes anti (bcl-2) e pró-apoptóticos (bax/caspase-3), formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio (EROS) e análises de fragmentação de DNA. Não foram obtidos embriões vivos a partir dos tratamentos vitrificados, observando uma rápida degeneração imediatamente após o descongelamento, com ruptura da camada vitelina e vazamento de seu conteúdo, seguida de quebra das células epiteliais e melanização do tecido. Em relação ao processo apoptótico. T3 apresentou expressão gênica relativa alta para os três genes (P <0,05), além disso, T2 apresentou expressão semelhante as dos genes pró-apoptóticos de GC (P <0,05). A formação de EROS revelou que GC apresentou menor percentual de área de superfície embrionária afetada (3,80 ± 0,40%) (P <0,05), ao contrário, não foram encontradas diferenças entre os outros grupos. T1 foi mais significativamente (P <0,05) danificado pela fragmentação do DNA. Os grupos vitrificados com melatonina apresentaram níveis de dano semelhantes ao do GC (P> 0,05). A inclusão de 1 µM de melatonina na solução de vitrificação, contrariou os efeitos do processo apoptótico em embriões pós-descongelamento, sugerindo sua utilidade na criopreservação de embriões de peixes.(AU)

Beef of Nellore cattle has limited tenderization despite pH decline in Longissimus lumborum

Bos taurus indicus temperament is variable and affects beef tenderization. Our objective was to investigate temperament and performance of non­castrated Nellore and identify groups based on Longissimus lumborum (LL) pH decline as well as beef characteristics produced by those groups. We investigated 94 animals with a subset of carcasses (n = 24) selected based on LL pH at 24 h postmortem (pm) to represent two groups: resistant to pH decline (> 5.8 called pH­Res; n = 10) and normal (< 5.7 called pH­Nor; n = 14). Steaks were fabricated from the LL muscle and randomly assigned to aging (2, 7, 14, and 21 days). Sarcomere length, cooking loss, myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI), and Warner­Bratzler shear force (WBSF) were determined. Data on temperament were investigated in a multivariate approach, while beef data were compared between groups using the analysis of variance. Rectal temperature at the beginning of the finishing phase and total weight gain were greater and related to animals in the pH­Res group (p < 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). Temperature and pH decline curves, sarcomere length, and cooking loss revealed that pH­Res produced beef with lower quality compared to the pH­Nor group. Results for MFI and WBSF did not show differences between groups within each time pm; however, overall steaks from pH­Res were tougher (p = 0.06). Incidence of LL pH between 5.8 and 5.9 at 24 h pm did not compromise the tenderization rate or extension; however, it affected the water holding capacity in this population of Nellore cattle.(AU)

Expression of calpain system transcripts responds inversely to beef tenderization after vitamin D3 supplementation in Nellore cattle / Expressão de transcritos do sistema calpaína responde de forma inversa ao amaciamento após suplementação com vitamina D3 em bovinos Nelore

Uma vez que o sistema calpaína é central para o amaciamento da carne e dada a importância da atividade de calpastatina na determinação da maciez de bifes de bovinos Bos taurus indicus, o objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar se a expressão do gene de µ-calpaína (CAPN1), calpastatina total (CAST T), e suas variantes (CAST I e II) foi induzido pela inclusão de vitamina D3 na dieta. Os animais receberam nenhuma ou 2 × 106 UI dose de vitamina D3 por 2 ou 8 dias antes do abate, e foram submetidos a diferentes condições durante o confinamento: exposição solar ou sombreamento artificial. Bifes do Longissimus lumborum foram fabricados e submetidos a maturação por 1, 7, e 21 dias post-mortem e posteriormente usados para determinação da força de cisalhamento e do índice de fragmentação miofibrilar. Vitamina D3 não influenciou a abundância de RNAm, exceto para maior abundância de transcritos de CAST II em animais que foram suplementados por 8 dias antes do abate. Foi encontrada associação negativa entre a abundância de CAST II e a força de cisalhamento. Essa contradição revela uma importante modulação da expressão do sistema calpaína resultado da suplementação com vitamina D que pode ser importante na determinação de estratégias para melhorar a maciez da carne.(AU)

The calpain system is the central player for meat tenderization and the calpastatin activity plays an important role in beef tenderness of Bos taurus indicus cattle. This study investigated whether dietary vitamin D3 induced gene expression of µ-calpain (CAPN1), total calpastatin (CAST T), and their variants (CAST I and II). Animals received none or 2 × 106 IU of vitamin D3 for either 2 or 8 days before slaughter and were submitted to different conditions during feedlot: sun exposure or artificial shade. Steaks from Longissimus lumborum were fabricated, aged for 1, 7, and 21 days post-mortem, and later used for the analyses of shear force and the myofibrillar fragmentation index. Vitamin D3 did not influence mRNA abundance; however, it induced a greater CAST II transcript in animals supplemented 8 days before slaughter. There was a negative association between CAST II abundance and the shear force, which revealed an important modulation of the calpain system expression due to vitamin D supplementation. This result is an important tool for strategies to improve beef tenderness.(AU)