Energy and lipid contents, and polyphenols composition of pequi pulp according to the fruit native area / Teores energético e lipídico, e composição em polifenóis da polpa de pequi de acordo com a área nativa do fruto

ABSTRACT: Pequi (Caryocar spp.) is a fruit native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado), and Caryocar brasilienseCamb. is one of the most prevalent species in this biome. The consumption of the pequi pulp has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anticarcinogenic effects. These benefits have been attributed to its high density in nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, there is evidence about considerable variation in the nutritional profile among pequi pulps of different species, and among pulps of the same species, but from different areas of the Cerrado. In addition, there is no information in literature regarding the polyphenols profile of C. brasiliense pulp, neither about the influence of the native area of the fruit on the composition of these phytochemicals. So, this study analyzed the nutrient composition and identified the phenolic compounds in the pulp of C. brasiliense fruits native to four different areas of the Cerrado. There was a remarkable variation in the contents of energy (176.3-387.2 kcal/100 g) and lipids (13.0-37.5 g/100 g) among samples. In contrast, no difference was observed in the polyphenols composition, since gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid were identified in all pequi pulps. C. brasiliense pulp shows potential to be used as a functional ingredient rich in bioactive compounds, but with different contents of energy and lipids according to the fruit's native area to attempt distinct health allegations of the product.

RESUMO: O pequi (Caryocar spp.) é um fruto nativo do cerrado brasileiro e Caryocar brasiliense Camb. é uma das espécies mais prevalentes neste bioma. O consumo da polpa de pequi tem sido associado a benefícios à saúde, como efeitos antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórios, hipolipidêmicos, hepatoprotetores e anticarcinogênicos. Esses benefícios têm sido atribuídos à sua alta densidade em nutrientes e compostos bioativos. No entanto, há evidências de considerável variação no perfil nutricional entre polpas de pequi de diferentes espécies, e entre polpas da mesma espécie, mas de diferentes áreas do cerrado. Além disso, não há informações na literatura sobre o perfil de polifenóis da polpa de C. brasiliense, tampouco sobre a influência da área nativa do fruto na composição desses fitoquímicos. Assim, este estudo analisou a composição de nutrientes e identificou os compostos fenólicos na polpa de frutos de C. brasiliense nativos de quatro diferentes áreas do Cerrado. Houve notável variação nos teores de energia (176,3-387,2 kcal/100 g) e lipídios (13,0-37,5 g/100 g) entre as amostras. Em contrapartida, não foi encontrada diferença na composição em polifenóis, uma vez que ácido gálico, ácido protocatecuico, catequina, epicatequina, ácido p-cumárico e ácido elágico foram identificados em todas as polpas de pequi analisadas. A polpa de C. brasiliense tem potencial para ser utilizada como ingrediente funcional rico em compostos bioativos, porém com diferentes teores de energia e lipídios de acordo com a área nativa do fruto para atender a distintas alegações de saúde do produto.

Rendimento de polpa emorfometria de frutos esementes em progêniesde camucamuzeiro (Myrciaria dubia) / Pulp yield and fruit and seed morphometry in camucamuzeiro (Myrciaria dubia) progenies

O camucamuzeiro (Myrciaria dubia), planta da família Myrtaceae, é uma frutífera nativa da região amazônica, ocorrendo espontaneamente nas várzeas e margens dos rios e lagos. O objetivo do trabalho foi quantificar o rendimento de polpa e avaliar os caracteres morfométricos de frutos e sementes em acessos decamucamuzeiro estabelecidos na forma de progênie na Coleção de Germoplasma da Embrapa Amazônia Oriental em Belém, PA. A caracterização física dos frutos foi efetuada com base naamostra de 1600 frutos colhidos de 32 progênies. Os frutos foram caracterizados individualmente quanto aos seguintes aspectos: peso, comprimento, diâmetro, espessura de casca e número de sementes por fruto. Sementes de 10 frutos por tratamento foram avaliadas quanto ao peso, comprimento, largura e espessura. Utilizou-se um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com 32 progênies, e posteriormente os dados. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram que os frutos de camucamuzeiro apresentam peso médio de 8,15g. As progênies CPATU-83 e CPATU-61 foram as que se destacaram em relação ao peso, com frutos apresentando peso médio acima de 11 gramas. O comprimento e diâmetro médio dos frutos foram de 2,22 cm, e 2,39 cm, respectivamente. O número de sementes teve média 1,92 sementes por fruto. Em relação ao °Brix, ocorreu amplitude de 10,70° e 6,93° nas progênies CPATU-27 e CPATU-28. A porcentagem de polpa das progênies teve média de 68,70%, sendo CPATU-54, 62, 23, 24 e 17 superiores estatisticamente das demais. Naporcentagem de sementes por frutos foram verificadas diferenças significativas com a maior porcentagem de sementes nos CPATU-27, 31 e 30, e o menor valor em frutos da planta CPATU-23. A coleção de germoplasma da Embrapa Amazônia Oriental permite a identificação de ampla variabilidade genética entre progênies de M. dubia. As progênies de camucamuzeiro CPATU-17, 23, 24, 54 e 62 apresentaram maior rendimento de polpa.(AU)

Camucamuzeiro (Myrciaria dubia), a plant of the Myrtaceaefamily, is a fruit tree native to the Amazon region, occurring spontaneously in floodplains and on the banks of rivers and lakes. The objective of this work was to quantify the pulp yield and evaluate the morphometric characters of fruits and seeds in camucamuzeiro accessions established as progeny in the GermplasmCollection of Embrapa Amazônia Oriental in Belém, Pará. The physical characterization of the fruits was carried out based on a sample of 1600 fruits harvested from 32 progenies. The fruits were individually characterized according to the following aspects: weight, length, diameter, peel thickness and number of seeds per fruit. Seeds of 10 fruits per treatment were evaluated for weight, length, width and thickness. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with 32 progenies, and then the data. The results showed that the camucamuzeiro fruits have an average weight of 8.15g. The progenies CPATU-83 and CPATU-61 were the ones that stood out in terms of weight, with fruits presenting an average weight of over 11 grams. The average fruit length and diameter were 2.22 cm and 2.39 cm, respectively. The number of seeds averaged 1.92 seeds per fruit. Regarding °Brix, amplitudes of 10.70° and 6.93° occurred in the progenies CPATU-27 and CPATU-28. The pulp percentage of the progenies had an average of 68.70%, being CPATU-54, 62, 23, 24 and 17 statistically higher than the others. The percentage of seeds per fruit showed significant differences with the highest percentage of seeds in CPATU-27, 31 and 30, and the lowest value in fruitsof the CPATU-23 plant. The germplasm collection of Embrapa Amazônia Oriental allows the identification of wide genetic variability among progenies of M. dubia. The camucamuzeiro progenies CPATU-17, 23, 24, 54 and 62 showed higher pulp yield.(AU)

Energy and lipid contents, and polyphenols composition of pequi pulp according to the fruit native area / Teores energético e lipídico, e composição em polifenóis da polpa de pequi de acordo com a área nativa do frut

Pequi (Caryocar spp.) is a fruit native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado), and Caryocar brasilienseCamb. is one of the most prevalent species in this biome. The consumption of the pequi pulp has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anticarcinogenic effects. These benefits have been attributed to its high density in nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, there is evidence about considerable variation in the nutritional profile among pequi pulps of different species, and among pulps of the same species, but from different areas of the Cerrado. In addition, there is no information in literature regarding the polyphenols profile of C. brasiliense pulp, neither about the influence of the native area of the fruit on the composition of these phytochemicals. So, this study analyzed the nutrient composition and identified the phenolic compounds in the pulp of C. brasiliense fruits native to four different areas of the Cerrado. There was a remarkable variation in the contents of energy (176.3-387.2 kcal/100 g) and lipids (13.0-37.5 g/100 g) among samples. In contrast, no difference was observed in the polyphenols composition, since gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid were identified in all pequi pulps. C. brasiliense pulp shows potential to be used as a functional ingredient rich in bioactive compounds, but with different contents of energy and lipids according to the fruit's native area to attempt distinct health allegations of the product.

O pequi (Caryocar spp.) é um fruto nativo do cerrado brasileiro e Caryocar brasiliense Camb. é uma das espécies mais prevalentes neste bioma. O consumo da polpa de pequi tem sido associado a benefícios à saúde, como efeitos antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórios, hipolipidêmicos, hepatoprotetores e anticarcinogênicos. Esses benefícios têm sido atribuídos à sua alta densidade em nutrientes e compostos bioativos. No entanto, há evidências de considerável variação no perfil nutricional entre polpas de pequi de diferentes espécies, e entre polpas da mesma espécie, mas de diferentes áreas do cerrado. Além disso, não há informações na literatura sobre o perfil de polifenóis da polpa de C. brasiliense, tampouco sobre a influência da área nativa do fruto na composição desses fitoquímicos. Assim, este estudo analisou a composição de nutrientes e identificou os compostos fenólicos na polpa de frutos de C. brasiliense nativos de quatro diferentes áreas do Cerrado. Houve notável variação nos teores de energia (176,3-387,2 kcal/100 g) e lipídios (13,0-37,5 g/100 g) entre as amostras. Em contrapartida, não foi encontrada diferença na composição em polifenóis, uma vez que ácido gálico, ácido protocatecuico, catequina, epicatequina, ácido p-cumárico e ácido elágico foram identificados em todas as polpas de pequi analisadas. A polpa de C. brasiliense tem potencial para ser utilizada como ingrediente funcional rico em compostos bioativos, porém com diferentes teores de energia e lipídios de acordo com a área nativa do fruto para atender a distintas alegações de saúde do produto.

Production and characterization of craft beers with different additions of native fruits and agro-industrial residues: a review / Produção e caracterização de cervejas artesanais com diferentes adições de frutas nativas e resíduos agroindustriais: uma revisão

There is a growing demand for authentic products that provide sensory characteristics combined with health benefits that current studies have focused on. This review addressed the technological aspects involved in producing craft beers and the use of various fruits in developing new products with higher added value. The information was collected by researching scientific databases such as Scopus, websites, and the CAPES catalog of Theses and Dissertations. Thus, this study sought to obtain more information to promote discussion about the possibilities of adding various fruits in developing beers with a strong cultural appeal, high nutritional and marketing value, and that can also be categorized as a functional food.

Existe uma crescente demanda por produtos autênticos, que forneçam características sensoriais combinadas com benefícios para a saúde que tem sido o foco dos estudos atuais. Nesta revisão, são abordados os aspectos tecnológicos envolvidos com a produção de cervejas artesanais e o uso de frutas diversas, no desenvolvimento de novos produtos com maior valor agregado. Para coleta de informações foram realizadas pesquisas em bases de dados científicos da Scopus, em sites e no catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Capes. Desta forma, este estudo buscou trazer informações para promover a discussão sobre as possibilidades que a adição de frutas diversas, principalmente nativas, podem oferecer no desenvolvimento de cervejas com forte apelo cultural, alto valor nutricional e mercadológico, podendo ainda ser categorizadas como um alimento funcional.

Hydraulic conductivity and native embolism of Geneva® Series apple rootstocks measured by the XYL'EM-Plus® embolism meter

Most commercial apple orchards are established on either Marubakaido (Malus prunifolia Borkh.) (high vigor), M-9 (Malus pumila) (low vigor), or a combination of both rootstocks through the intergrafting technique. The Geneva® Series rootstocks were developed as an alternative to orchards modernization. The vigor of rootstocks influences the anatomical xylem formation and, therefore, the canopy cultivar's hydraulic conductivity. When affected by embolism, hydraulic conductivity harms plant metabolism, reducing crop yield and fruit quality. This study aimed to evaluate four Geneva® Series rootstocks with potential use in southern Brazil, in terms of hydraulic conductivity (K) and percentage loss of conductance (PLC), during the winter period in two different years. The G.213 rootstock presented the best performance for the variables analyzed; however, higher values of xylem functionality loss were observed in G.814.

Microbiological properties of soils are sensitive to changes provided by organic cultivation of banana 'BRS Princesa' in the semi-arid region

Soil microbiota has a key role in the dynamics of natural and agro-ecosystems and is sensitive to changes in these environments. This study evaluated changes in the microbiological properties of soils under an organic production system of banana 'BRS Princesa' (Musa spp.). The experimental design consisted of completely randomized blocks, with four replications. Treatments consisted of 1) soil cover with green manure and agricultural gypsum at a dose of 2,820 kg ha−1, 2) soil cover with green manure without gypsum application, 3) soil cover with weeds and agricultural gypsum at a dose of 2,820 kg ha−1, 4) soil cover with spontaneous plants without gypsum application, and two controls: 5) soil under native Caatinga and 6) soil under regenerating forest (capoeira). The evaluated properties were ß-glucosidase, arylsulfatase, acid phosphatase, fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis activities (FDA), carbon and phosphorus contents in microbial biomass, basal soil respiration, microbial and metabolic quotients, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi spore density. Soil samples were collected from the 0­0.20m depth layer in two seasons. No parameter could distinguish the treatments. Spontaneous plants provided conditions equivalent to those under green manure. Agricultural gypsum application also did not influence the microbial biomass and microbiota activity, in the analyzed soil depth. However, ß-glucosidase and arylsulfatase activities, the carbon content in microbial biomass, and metabolic and microbial quotients were sensitive to land-use changes and could distinguish areas under organic cultivation from those under native vegetation. Therefore, these properties can be considered good indicators for monitoring the quality of these soils. Furthermore, microbial communities of soils under organic cultivation responded with arylsulfatase activity corresponding to that found in soils under regenerating forest, which may indicate that organic management tends to provide the microbiota with a condition similar to that found under situations that are little disturbing to edaphic living.(AU)

Foraging patterns of bees in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb. ) flowers in Panama

t The foraging patterns of bees in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) flowers were investigated in Los Santos, Panama, over a period of 84 observation days. The study aimed to identify the bee species visiting the flowers, their daily visitation rates, and the resources they foraged. The majority of visits were made by native bees, particularly stingless bees, suggesting their crucial role in pollinating watermelon crops in the area. The most frequently observed bee species visiting the flowers were N. perilampoides(58.7%), A. mellifera (23%), and P. peckolti (4%). Nectar was the primary resource foraged by most bees, with comparable visitation rates for both male (staminate) and female (pistillate) flowers. Honeybees allocated nearly half of their visits (47.7%) for pollen collection, and the majority of their daily visits occurred between 7:00 and 8:00 hours. In contrast, stingless bee visits peaked between 8:00 and 9:00 hours. Nectar visits were shorter in duration than pollen visits, with honeybees exhibiting the shortest durations when visiting watermelon flowers. Significant variations were observed in the daily foraging patterns among bee species during the 84-h observation period (Friedman P < 0.05). Additionally, bee characteristics such as size, color, and sociability, along with the time of day, significantly influenced flower visits for resources (GLMM P < 0.05). These findings contribute to the understanding of Central American bee species' behavior, aid in their conservation and management and have implications for enhancing fruit production in local watermelon crops.(AU)

Biometric and morphological adjustments of Eugenia. dysenterica DC. seedlings in response to increased soil water deficit

Water stress can affect all aspects of plant growth and development, compromising its productive potential. The cultivation of fruit species native to the Cerrado and the study of their behavior under conditions of low water availability are necessary activities, in view of their socioeconomic and environmental potential. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of water deficit on growth and biomass production of the cagaita tree (Eugenia dysenterica DC.), a species endemic to the Cerrado (Brazilian Savannah). The experiment was performed in a greenhouse for 120 days in a randomized block design (RBD), with a double factorial arrangement (2x5), corresponding to two cagaita mother plants and five water conditions. We evaluated the growth and leaf, stem and root functional characteristics. The most severe water deficit conditions reduced shoot growth, number of leaves, production of biomass and dry matter and increased the specific and per plant mass root length of cagaita plants. Deficit extension had negative effects on its growth and development. There was a statistical difference between mother plants, with mother plant 2 being more resistant to drought. The application of a severe or longer water deficit affected shoot growth and reduced the appearance of new leaves. The stress caused by water deficiency allowed an increase in root functional characteristics, supporting the hypothesis that plants under adverse conditions focus on higher biomass production and convert a higher amount of dry matter into the roots. Leaf area did not show to be a functional characteristic, explaining the stress effects in E. dysenterica DC plants.(AU)

Occurrence of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the municipality of Alvorada do Gurguéia in South Central Piauí, Brazil

The state of Piauí is in a Cerrado/Caatinga transition area, which is known the richness of its fauna and flora. Therefore, this work aims to know the diversity of fruit fly species in cashew orchards and native forest fragments in the south-central region of Piauí. Fruit flies were collected in McPhail traps and by sampling fruits. The material collected from the traps and the fruits in the two areas were taken to the Laboratory of Phytotechnics from Campus Prof. Cinobelina Elvas at the Universidade Federal do Piauí (UFPI/CPCE), municipality of Bom Jesus, Piauí, Brazil. In McPhail traps, six species of the genus Anastrepha: A. alveata, A. dissimilis, A. fraterculus, A. manihoti, A. obliqua, and A. zenildae were captured, of which A. fraterculus, A. obliqua, and A. zenildae were present in both areas. Anastrepha alveata, A. dissimilis and A. manihoti occurred only in the cashew orchard. In fruit sampling, A. fraterculus, A. obliqua, and A. zenildae infested wild-guava fruits, Myrcia tomentosa (Myrtaceae), in native forest. Anastrepha fraterculus, A. obliqua and A. zenildae were obtained directly from M. tomentosa fruits and from traps. The availability of host fruits is the factor that most influences the population fluctuation of fruit flies, mainly in the native forest area. Anastrepha manihoti is reported for the first time in the state of Piauí. This is the first record of A. fraterculus, A. obliqua and A. zenildae, infesting wildguava fruits, M. tomentosa.

Characterisation and pre-selection of Acca sellowiana genotypes by multivariate analysis / Caracterização e pré-seleção de genótipos de Acca sellowia por análise multivariada

Feijoa (Acca sellowiana) is a native Brazilian fruit with a peculiar flavour, a considerable amount of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Even though this fruit tree is currently cultivated in several countries around the world, in Brazil, the process of domestication is underway, and the selection and breeding of new genotypes that are more productive and with better fruit quality is necessary. The objective of this work was to evaluate phenotypic diversity among and within progeny and to study the correlations among the quality variables of Feijoa fruit, seeking to select individuals with superior characteristics using principal component analysis. The parents who formed the progeny (families) were selected from a participatory breeding programme. We observed that individuals 47 and 93 had a combination of desirable fruit characteristics for selection, and individuals 15, 910, 98 and 410 should be selected for future crossings, as they had a high total fruit mass and soluble solid content or the highest percentage of pulp and rounded fruit shape. Larger fruit, in general, had a lower percentage of pulp. Principal component analysis is a viable tool in the pre-selection of new genotypes and potential progenitors for Feijoa breeding programmes.(AU)

Feijoa (Acca sellowiana) é uma fruteira nativa do Brasil com sabor peculiar, com considerável quantidade de compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante. Mesmo sendo cultivada em diversos países, no Brasil, seu processo de domesticação está em curso e a seleção e o melhoramento para obtenção de novos genótipos, com maior produtividade e melhor qualidade de frutas, é necessário. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a diversidade fenotípica entre e dentro de progênies e estudar as correlações entre as variáveis de qualidade de frutos de Feijoa, buscando selecionar indivíduos com características superiores, usando análise de componentes principais. Os progenitores que formaram as populações (famílias) analisadas foram selecionados a partir de um programa de melhoramento participativo. Foi observado que os indivíduos 47 e 93 apresentaram uma combinação de características de frutos desejáveis para seleção, e os indivíduos 15, 910, 98 e 410 podem ser selecionados para futuros cruzamentos, pois possuem maior massa total de frutos e sólidos solúveis, ou maior porcentagem de rendimento de polpa e formato arredondado. Maior tamanho de frutos, em geral, tiveram uma menor percentagem de polpa. A análise de componentes principais é uma ferramenta viável para pré-seleção de genótipos e potencias progenitores em programas de melhoramento de Feijoa.(AU)

Phenolic and flavonoid content and in vitro inhibitory effect of some Amazonian fruit juices on CYP3A4 activity / Conteúdo fenólico e flavonoídico e efeito inibitório in vitro de alguns sucos de frutas da Amazônia sobre a atividade de CYP3A4

Many foods interact with drugs and may cause changes in the pharmacological effects of the co-administered therapeutic agent. The enzyme CYP3A4, which belongs to the cytochrome P450 enzyme complex, is responsible for the metabolism of most drugs currently on the market and is involved in many drug interactions. Hence, the interaction of this enzyme with juices of some fruits, such as grapefruit, can affect the pharmacokinetics of various drugs. However, native fruits from the Amazon region have not yet been the target of this type of research. We determined total polyphenols and flavonoids of the Amazonian fruits açaí (Euterpe precatoria), buriti (Mauritia flexuosa), camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia), cubiu (Solanum sessiliflorum), cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum), jenipapo (Genipa americana), and taperebá (Spondias mombin) and evaluated the effects of each fruit juice on CYP3A4 activity, using the star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) juice as positive control. Açaí juice presented the highest content of total polyphenols and flavonoids (102.6 ± 7.2 µg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per mL and 7.2 ± 0.6 µg quercetin equivalent (QE) per mL, respectively). All juices were able to inhibit the activity of CYP3A4. There was no residual activity of the drug-metabolizing enzyme for açai, buriti, cubiu, camu-camu, and taperebá juice, while for cupuaçu, jenipapo and the positive control, the residual activity was 44.3, 54.3 and 20.2%, respectively. Additional studies should identify the phytocompound(s) responsible for this inhibition activity, to clarify the mechanisms involved in this phenomenon.(AU)

Muitos alimentos interagem com medicamentos e podem causar alterações nos efeitos farmacológicos do agente terapêutico coadministrado. A enzima CYP3A4, que pertence ao complexo enzimático do citocromo P450, é responsável pelo metabolismo da maioria dos medicamentos atualmente no mercado e está envolvida em muitas interações medicamentosas. Assim, a interação dessa enzima com sucos de algumas frutas, como a toranja, pode afetar a farmacocinética de vários medicamentos. No entanto, frutas nativas da região amazônica ainda não foram alvo desse tipo de pesquisa. Determinamos polifenóis e flavonoides totais dos frutos amazônicos de açaí (Euterpe precatoria), buriti (Mauritia flexuosa), camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia), cubiu (Solanum sessiliflorum), cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum), jenipapo (Genipa americana) e taperebá (Spondias mombin) e avaliamos os efeitos de cada suco de fruta sobre a atividade de CYP3A4, utilizando o suco de carambola (Averrhoa carambola) como controle positivo. O suco de açaí apresentou o maior teor de polifenóis totais e flavonóides (102,6 ± 7,2 µg equivalente de ácido gálico (GAE) por mL e 7,2 ± 0,6 µg equivalente de quercetina (QE) por mL, respectivamente). Todos os sucos foram capazes de inibir a atividade de CYP3A4. Não houve atividade residual da enzima metabolizadora de fármacos para os sucos de açaí, buriti, cubiu, camu-camu e taperebá, enquanto para cupuaçu, jenipapo e o controle positivo, a atividade residual foi de 44,3, 54,3 e 20,2%, respectivamente. Estudos adicionais devem identificar o(s) fitocomposto(s) responsável(is) por esta atividade de inibição, para esclarecer os mecanismos envolvidos neste fenômeno.(AU)

Pollination of Turnera subulata: exotic or native bees? / Polinização de Turnera subulata: abelhas exóticas ou nativas?

This work analyzed floral visitors of Turnera subulata Sm. (Turneraceae) within an anthropized area in Bahia (UEFS Campus), focusing on potential pollinators, fruit and seed production and the influence of climatic factors on this interaction. The study was carried during six months in 2018 and 2019. Aspects of floral biology and visitor behavior were observed. Turnera subulata flowers lasted approximately six hours and during this period they were exposed to visitors at different intervals to assess the peak time of fruit formation. The most frequent visitors were the bees Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758, Trigona sp., Augochlora sp. and Protomeliturga turnerae (Ducke, 1907). The foraging peak occurred in the morning, coinciding with the time of greatest formation of fruits and seeds, and with the time of greatest number of open flowers. Both exotic and native bees acted as potential pollinators, being considered complementary in the flower pollination process.

Este trabalho analisou visitantes florais de Turnera subulata Sm. (Turneraceae) em área antropizada na Bahia (Campus UEFS), com foco nos potenciais polinizadores, na produção de frutos e sementes e na influência dos fatores climáticos nesta interação. O estudo foi realizado durante seis meses em 2018 e 2019. Foram observados aspectos da biologia floral e comportamento do visitante. As flores de T. subulata duraram aproximadamente seis horas e durante este período foram expostas aos visitantes em diferentes intervalos para avaliar o pico de formação dos frutos. Os visitantes mais frequentes foram as abelhas Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758, Trigona sp., Augochlora sp. e Protomeliturga turnerae (Ducke, 1907). O pico de forrageamento ocorreu pela manhã, coincidindo com o momento de maior formação de frutos e sementes, e com o maior número de flores abertas. Tanto as abelhas exóticas quanto as nativas atuaram como potenciais polinizadores, sendo consideradas complementares no processo de polinização das flores.

Multivariate analysis in the selection of baru genotypes / Análises multivariadas na seleção de genótipos de barueiro

In terms of extension and flora, the cerrado is the second largest Brazilian biome, which harbors native fruit species that produce fruits with different characteristics, attractive colors, and exclusive flavors, such as baru. However, the uncontrolled and unsustainable exploitation of resources in this biome has been a cause of great concern worldwide. In view of the importance and productive potential of baru, breeding programs should characterize its fruits and seeds in seedling formation by univariate and multivariate analyses and frequency histograms. This study describes an experiment laid out in a completely randomized design with seven populations of baru from the south and southeast regions of the state of Goiás, Brazil. Five replicates were used, totaling 35 experimental plots, with 15 fruits per replicate. For estimated 100-fruit weight, estimated 100-seed weight, and pulp thickness, the populations of Caldas Novas and Bom Jesus stood out with the highest means for some of the evaluated traits. As for frequency intervals, the population of Caldas Novas showed the largest amplitude for seed length, whereas the Edéia population exhibited the greatest amplitude for seed width. In the analysis of the fruit, the population of Caldas Novas showed the largest amplitudes for both length and width. After genetic dissimilarity analysis, the UPGMA clustering method grouped the Caldas Novas and Bom Jesus populations into one group and the others into another. The highest correlation indices observed were between 100-fruit weight and 100- seed weight (87%) and between seed length and fruit length (86%). Clustering based on the k-means method resulted in two groups formed: one comprising the populations of Caldas Novas, Aloândia, and Bom Jesus the other the remaining populations.

Em termos de extensão e flora, o cerrado constitui o segundo maior bioma brasileiro e apresenta espécies frutíferas nativas, que produzem frutos com características diferenciadas, cores atraentes e sabores exclusivos, como o barueiro. Contudo, a exploração descontrolada e insustentável dos recursos deste bioma vem sendo motivo de grande preocupação em todo mundo. Diante da importância e potencial produtivo do barueiro, torna-se necessário a caracterização de frutos e sementes na formação de mudas através de análises univariadas, multivariadas e histogramas de intervalo de frequência em programas de melhoramento. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente ao acaso, com sete populações de barueiros provenientes das regiões sul e sudeste do estado de Goiás, com cinco repetições totalizando trinta e cinco parcelas experimentais, com quinze frutos por repetição. Verificou-se que para massa estimada de 100 frutos, massa estimada de 100 sementes e espessura de polpa, as populações de Caldas Novas e Bom Jesus se destacaram por apresentarem maiores médias em algumas características avaliadas. Quanto aos intervalos de frequência, a maior amplitude para sementes foi observada na população de Caldas Novas, enquanto para a largura, maior amplitude foi observada na população de Edéia. Para frutos, as maiores amplitudes foram observadas em relação ao comprimento e largura para a população de Caldas Novas. Após a análise de dissimilaridade genética, o método de agrupamento por UPGMA agrupou as populações de forma que um grupo foi formado pelas populações Caldas Novas e Bom Jesus e o outro pelas demais. Os maiores índices de correlação observados foram massa de cem frutos e massa de cem sementes (87%) e comprimento de sementes e comprimento de frutos (86%), respectivamente. No sistema de agrupamento pelo método k-means houve a formação de dois grupos com Caldas Novas, Aloândia e Bom Jesus em um dos grupos e o outro grupo formado pelas demais populações.

Phytoplasma of 16SrVII-B subgroup associated to shoot proliferation in Physalis peruviana plants

Physalis is an herbaceous species native to the Andes region. Currently, it is cultivated in various Brazilian states due to the economic interest of growers for this new fruit. Physalis plants grown in the field showed symptoms of shoot proliferation, leaf malformation, and chlorosis. Since these symptoms are commonly induced by phytoplasmas, this study investigated to confirm the presence of these prokaryotes in symptomatic plants. After DNA extraction from symptomatic and asymptomatic plants, phytoplasmas were found in all affected plants through the nested PCR. Examination by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using appropriately prepared segments of leaf veins allowed the visualization of typical pleomorphic cells of phytoplasmas in the phloem of symptomatic plants. The computer-simulated RFLP patterns and the phylogenetic analysis allowed identifying the detected phytoplasmas as a 'Candidatus Phytoplasma fraxini'-related strain belonging to the 16SrVII-B subgroup. Moreover, physalis was identified as an additional host species for phytoplasmas in the 16SrVII group, expanding the current knowledge on the host range of phytoplasmas in this group.

Recycled pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb) shell ethanolic extract induces apoptosis in canine osteosarcoma cell / Extrato etanólico de cascas recicladas de pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb) induz apoptose em células de osteossarcoma canino

Osteosarcoma is a mesenchymal cancer associated with high mortality in dogs and in humans. The biodiversity-rich Cerrado, the predominant biome in the Midwest region of Brazil, is native to locally appreciated fruits such as pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb). Although this plant has been frequently used in folk medicine, the pharmacological properties of pequi fruit shells have not been fully evaluated. Thus, this study aimed to determine the cytotoxic activity of ethanol extract of recycled pequi shells on canine osteosarcoma cells in vitro. Cells were cultured and treated with final extract concentrations of 0, 0.029 µg/µL, 0.29 µg/µL, and 2.91 µg/µL for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Cell viability assay using trypan blue exclusion method and tetrazolium reduction method, cell survival assay, and double labeling with annexin V and propidium iodide were performed in the treated osteosarcoma cells. These allowed the determination of IC50, survival fraction, and type of cell death, respectively. Pequi shell ethanol extract at a concentration of 2.91 µg/µL showed the greatest inhibition of osteosarcoma cell growth in vitro, resulting in a 71.80% decrease in growth compared to the control. The mean IC50 was 155.2 µg/mL at 72 hours. The calculated survival fractions showed that cell growth at 72 hours was 3.33% lower in cells treated with 2.91 µg/µL extract. Results from the double labeling experiment suggest that apoptosis was the predominant type of cell death in cells treated with 2.91 µg/µL extract. These results demonstrate that ethanol extract of recycled pequi shells promotes apoptosis in canine osteosarcoma cells.

O osteossarcoma é uma neoplasia mesenquimal associada à alta mortalidade em cães e humanos. O pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb.) é nativo do Cerrado, bioma rico em biodiversidade predominante na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Embora esta planta seja frequentemente utilizada na medicina popular, as propriedades farmacológicas da casca do pequi ainda são pouco conhecidas. Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar a atividade citotóxica do extrato etanólico de cascas de pequi recicladas em células de osteossarcoma canino. As células foram cultivadas e tratadas com concentrações finais de extrato de zero, 0,029 µg/µL, 0,29 µg/µL e 2,91 µg/µL por 24, 48 ou 72 horas. As células foram submetidas a ensaio de viabilidade celular pelos métodos de exclusão de azul de tripano da redução de tetrazólio para determinar a IC50, ao ensaio de sobrevivência celular para calcular a fração de sobrevivência e à dupla marcação com anexina V e iodeto de propídio para determinar o tipo de morte celular. O extrato etanólico de casca de pequi na concentração de 2,91 µg/µL apresentou a maior inibição do crescimento de células de osteossarcoma, com redução de 71,80% no crescimento em relação ao controle. A IC50 média foi de 155,2 µg/mL em 72 horas. O crescimento celular em 72 horas foi 3,33% menor nas células tratadas com 2,91 µg/µL de extrato. A apoptose foi o tipo predominante de morte celular em células tratadas com 2,91 µg/µL de extrato. Esses resultados demonstram que o extrato etanólico de cascas de pequi recicladas promove apoptose em células de osteossarcoma canino.

Bird-plant interaction networks in native forests and eucalyptus plantations within a protected area

Abstract Frugivory is a plant-animal mutualistic interaction carried out mostly by birds. It consists in the bird consumption of fruits with later dispersion of the plants seeds, helping in the vegetation regeneration. Frugivory can be affected by the habitat fragmentation and introduction of exotic species, which may alter the species interaction by extinction or competitor introduction. This study aimed to compare the structure of the network of frugivorous interactions between birds and plants in native forest and eucalyptus plantation. Birds were captured by mist nets and had their feces collected. Later, the seeds were identified in laboratory. The records of fruit consumption by birds in the zoochoric plant species present in the study area were also conducted. The data collected was used to build a network of interactions and identify the most important network metrics, species, and ecological functional groups in the studied environments. The results showed that the species composition, the connectivity of the relationships, the importance of the species for the interaction networks and the number of subgroups within the networks were highly similar between the native forest and the eucalyptus plantation. This could be explained by the favorable conditions that the studied eucalyptus plantations presented, such as the lack of anthropogenic activities, well-developed understory, and the presence of native surrounding vegetation, allowing practically the same seed dispersal capacity in both types of environments.

Bird-plant interaction networks in native forests and eucalyptus plantations within a protected area

Abstract Frugivory is a plant-animal mutualistic interaction carried out mostly by birds. It consists in the bird consumption of fruits with later dispersion of the plants' seeds, helping in the vegetation regeneration. Frugivory can be affected by the habitat fragmentation and introduction of exotic species, which may alter the species interaction by extinction or competitor introduction. This study aimed to compare the structure of the network of frugivorous interactions between birds and plants in native forest and eucalyptus plantation. Birds were captured by mist nets and had their feces collected. Later, the seeds were identified in laboratory. The records of fruit consumption by birds in the zoochoric plant species present in the study area were also conducted. The data collected was used to build a network of interactions and identify the most important network metrics, species, and ecological functional groups in the studied environments. The results showed that the species composition, the connectivity of the relationships, the importance of the species for the interaction networks and the number of subgroups within the networks were highly similar between the native forest and the eucalyptus plantation. This could be explained by the favorable conditions that the studied eucalyptus plantations presented, such as the lack of anthropogenic activities, well-developed understory, and the presence of native surrounding vegetation, allowing practically the same seed dispersal capacity in both types of environments.

Dormancy in native fruit seeds of the Brazilian South Region / Dormência em sementes de frutas nativas da Região Sul do Brasil

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether seeds from six native fruit species ofthe South Brazilian regionhad any type of dormancy, as well as, to verify if they havephotoblastism. The work was carried out at the Plant Physiology Laboratoryofthe Federal Technological University of Paraná –Câmpus Dois Vizinhos, Paraná State, Brazil. The influence of photoperiod factors and techniques for overcoming dormancy were tested on the germination of Eugenia uniflora L.(Surinan cherry), Plinia peruviana(native jabuticaba), Plinia cauliflora(hybrid jabuticaba), Eugenia involucrataDC. (Rio Grande cherry), Myrcianthes pungens(guabiju) and Campomanesia guazumifolia(sete capoteiro). The seeds were exposed in a condition of total darkness or photoperiod of 24 hours, being the levels of one of factors tested. The techniques for breaking dormancy tested werethe immersion in gibberellic acid solution (200 mg L-1); stratification at 5°C for 30 days; immersion in water at room temperature for 24 hours; immersion in hot water (80°C) for five minutes; immersion in sulfuric acid solution (96%) for five minutes; and manual physical scarification with 120 grit sandpaper. The seeds were also tested without using any technique, making up the controlstreatments with or without light. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 2 x 7 factorial scheme (luminosity x treatment for breaking dormancy), with four replications of 100 seeds. After 60 days, germination (%), percentage of accumulated germination, germination speed index and average germination time were analyzed. The seeds of most of the studied native species do not present dormancy or the effect of photoblastism, except for “sete capoteiro”seedswho are supposed to have morphophysiological dormancy, with negative photoblastism. The use of hot water or sulfuric acid in the seeds of native fruit trees is not recommended.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar se sementes de seis fruteiras nativas da região Sul do Brasil apresentavam algum tipo de dormência, bem como verificar a existência ou não de fotoblastismo. O trabalho foi realizado no Laboratório de Fisiologia Vegetal,da Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná -Câmpus Dois Vizinhos. A influência dofotoperíodo edas técnicas para superação da dormência foram testadas paraEugenia unifloraL. (pitangueira), Plinia peruviana(jabuticabeiranativa), Plinia cauliflora(jabuticabeira híbrida), Eugenia involucrataDC. (cerejeira do Rio Grande), Myrcianthes pungens(guabijuzeiro)e Campomanesia guazumifolia(sete capoteiro). As sementes foram expostas em condição de escuridão total ou fotoperíodo de 24 horas, sendo estes,níveis de um dos fatores testados. Também foram testadastécnicasde superação de dormência como deimersão em solução de ácido giberélico (200 mg L-1); estratificação a 5°C por 30 dias; imersão em água em temperatura ambiente por 24 horas; imersão em água quente (80 °C) por cinco minutos; imersão em solução de ácido sulfúrico (96%) por cinco minutos e escarificação física manual com lixa 120. As sementes também foram testadas semuso de técnicas para quebra de dormência, constituindo-seostratamentostestemunhas com e sem luz. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 7 (luminosidade x tratamento para quebra de dormência), com quatro repetições de 100 sementes. Após 60 dias, foram analisados agerminação (%), a porcentagem de germinação acumulada, o índice de velocidade de germinação e o tempo médio de germinação. As sementes da maioria das espécies nativas estudadas não apresentam dormência ou efeito de fotoblastismo, exceto “sete capoteiro” que supostamente apresentasementes comdormência morfofisiológica, com fotoblastismo negativo. O uso de água quente ou ácido sulfúrico nas sementes de fruteiras nativas não é recomendado.

Dormancy in native fruit seeds of the Brazilian South Region / Dormência em sementes de frutas nativas da Região Sul do Brasil

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether seeds from six native fruit species ofthe South Brazilian regionhad any type of dormancy, as well as, to verify if they havephotoblastism. The work was carried out at the Plant Physiology Laboratoryofthe Federal Technological University of Paraná –Câmpus Dois Vizinhos, Paraná State, Brazil. The influence of photoperiod factors and techniques for overcoming dormancy were tested on the germination of Eugenia uniflora L.(Surinan cherry), Plinia peruviana(native jabuticaba), Plinia cauliflora(hybrid jabuticaba), Eugenia involucrataDC. (Rio Grande cherry), Myrcianthes pungens(guabiju) and Campomanesia guazumifolia(sete capoteiro). The seeds were exposed in a condition of total darkness or photoperiod of 24 hours, being the levels of one of factors tested. The techniques for breaking dormancy tested werethe immersion in gibberellic acid solution (200 mg L-1); stratification at 5°C for 30 days; immersion in water at room temperature for 24 hours; immersion in hot water (80°C) for five minutes; immersion in sulfuric acid solution (96%) for five minutes; and manual physical scarification with 120 grit sandpaper. The seeds were also tested without using any technique, making up the controlstreatments with or without light. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 2 x 7 factorial scheme (luminosity x treatment for breaking dormancy), with four replications of 100 seeds. After 60 days, germination (%), percentage of accumulated germination, germination speed index and average germination time were analyzed. The seeds of most of the studied native species do not present dormancy or the effect of photoblastism, except for “sete capoteiro”seedswho are supposed to have morphophysiological dormancy, with negative photoblastism. The use of hot water or sulfuric acid in the seeds of native fruit trees is not recommended.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar se sementes de seis fruteiras nativas da região Sul do Brasil apresentavam algum tipo de dormência, bem como verificar a existência ou não de fotoblastismo. O trabalho foi realizado no Laboratório de Fisiologia Vegetal,da Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná -Câmpus Dois Vizinhos. A influência dofotoperíodo edas técnicas para superação da dormência foram testadas paraEugenia unifloraL. (pitangueira), Plinia peruviana(jabuticabeiranativa), Plinia cauliflora(jabuticabeira híbrida), Eugenia involucrataDC. (cerejeira do Rio Grande), Myrcianthes pungens(guabijuzeiro)e Campomanesia guazumifolia(sete capoteiro). As sementes foram expostas em condição de escuridão total ou fotoperíodo de 24 horas, sendo estes,níveis de um dos fatores testados. Também foram testadastécnicasde superação de dormência como deimersão em solução de ácido giberélico (200 mg L-1); estratificação a 5°C por 30 dias; imersão em água em temperatura ambiente por 24 horas; imersão em água quente (80 °C) por cinco minutos; imersão em solução de ácido sulfúrico (96%) por cinco minutos e escarificação física manual com lixa 120. As sementes também foram testadas semuso de técnicas para quebra de dormência, constituindo-seostratamentostestemunhas com e sem luz. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 7 (luminosidade x tratamento para quebra de dormência), com quatro repetições de 100 sementes. Após 60 dias, foram analisados agerminação (%), a porcentagem de germinação acumulada, o índice de velocidade de germinação e o tempo médio de germinação. As sementes da maioria das espécies nativas estudadas não apresentam dormência ou efeito de fotoblastismo, exceto “sete capoteiro” que supostamente apresentasementes comdormência morfofisiológica, com fotoblastismo negativo. O uso de água quente ou ácido sulfúrico nas sementes de fruteiras nativas não é recomendado.(AU)

Strong El Niño reduces fruit production of Brazil-nut trees in the eastern Amazon / Forte El Niño reduz a produção de frutos de castanheiras na Amazônia Oriental

The Brazil-nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is native to the Amazon rainforest, and its fruit production varies naturally with climatic conditions. Our aim was to evaluate the temporal variation in Brazil-nut production associated with climatic variables, including the strong El Niño of 2015/2016. The study was carried out in two 9-ha permanent plots in the northeastern Brazilian Amazon from 2007 to 2018: one in forest (12-year monitoring) and the other in savannah/forest transition (eight years). Overall, we monitored fruit production of 205 trees with diameter at breast height ≥ 50 cm. Annual fruit production was related to temporal series (2005-2018) of climatic data (the Oceanic Niño Index; and precipitation and air temperature from two local meteorological stations). Average fruit production per tree in 2017 was eight times lower than in 2015 and two times lower than the general average for both sites, and was significantly associated to the El Niño of 2015/2016, that increased average maximum monthly temperature and reduced the precipitation in the region, extending the dry season from three to six months. Years with higher and lower fruit production per tree coincided in both sites. Annual fruit production was significantly and negatively correlated with thermal anomalies that occurred in the third semester prior to harvest monitoring. Years with higher production were related with predominance of neutrality or the La Niña phenomenon at the global scale, and higher rainfall at the local scale. The relationship of fruit production with climate was independent of the local habitat.

A castanheira-da-amazônia (Bertholletia excelsa) é nativa da floresta amazônica e sua produção de frutos varia naturalmente com as condições climáticas. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a variação temporal na produção de frutos da castanheira associada a variáveis ​​climáticas, incluindo o forte El Nino de 2015/2016. O estudo foi realizado em parcelas permanentes de 9 ha de 2007 a 2018, uma localizada em floresta (12 anos de monitoramento) e a outra em transição floresta/savana (oito anos). Em total, monitoramos 205 castanheiras com diâmetro à altura do peito ≥ 50 cm. A produção anual de frutos foi relacionada a séries temporais (2005-2018) de dados climáticos (o Índice Oceânico Niño; e a precipitação e temperatura do ar de duas estações meteorológicas locais). A produção média por castanheira em 2017 foi oito vezes menor que em 2015 e duas vezes menor que a média geral nos dois sítios, e foi significativamente associada ao El Niño de 2015/2016, que causou aumento na temperatura máxima mensal e redução na precipitação regional, prolongando a estação seca de três para seis meses. Os anos com maior e menor produção média por castanheira foram os mesmos nos dois ambientes. A produção anual de frutos foi significativa e negativamente correlacionada com as anomalias térmicas ocorridas no terceiro semestre antes da colheita. Anos de maior produção foram relacionados com predominância de neutralidade ou do fenômeno La Niña em escala global, e aumento da precipitação em nível local. A relação entre produção de frutos e clima foi independente do ambiente local.