Canine sperm vitrification with nonpermeable cryoprotectants and coconut water extender

This study was aimed to assess the efficiency of coconut water extender with addition of soy lecithin and sucrose as nonpermeable cryoprotectants for canine semen vitrification, using a simple method that yields a high survival rate of spermatozoa for clinical use. Twelve ejaculates from 12 adult normozoospermic dogs were collected separately by digital manipulation and only the second semen fraction was used in this study. After evaluation of volume, concentration, viability, total and progressive motility, velocity parameters and morphology, semen was diluted with a coconut water extender (50% (v/v(volume per volume)) coconut water, 25% (v/v) distilled water and 25% (v/v) 5% anhydrous monosodium citrate solution) with addition of soy lecithin and fructose at 1% and 0.25M sucrose until final concentration of 100x106 spermatozoa/ml. After equilibration at 5ºC for 60 minutes, semen was vitrified by "direct dropping method" into liquid nitrogen in spheres with a volume of 30 µl. After a week of storage the spheres were devitrified as three of them were dropped into 0.5 mL of CaniPlus AI medium (Minitüb, Germany), which was previously warmed in a water bath at 42ºC for 2 minutes and evaluated about the above mentioned parameters. It was found that vitrification resulted in a lower percentage of viable sperms, normal morphology, total and progressive motilities (p0.05) compared to fresh semen samples. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that vitrification with coconut water extender with addition of 1% soy lecithin and 0.25M sucrose as cryoprotectants, has an excellent potential for routine canine sperm cryopreservation.(AU)

Elaboration, characterization, and probiotic viability of synbiotic non-dairy drink based on coconut / Elaboração, caracterização e viabilidade probiótica de bebida simbiótica não-láctea a base de coco

ABSTRACT: Coconut is a fruit grown in more than 80 countries owing to its outstanding nutritional and biological value and it is an important crop for the food industry" por "Coconut is a fruit grown in more than 80 countries and owing to its outstanding nutritional and biological value and it is an important crop for the food industry. Thus, developing new coconut-based products is attractive to explore the benefits provided by microorganisms and improve the nutritional and bioactive composition of coconut products, such as by preparing fermented beverages. This study developed and characterize a drink based on dry coconut with the prebiotic fructooligosaccharide fermented by the probiotic Lactobacillus casei. The drink was formulated, filtered, fermented, matured, and stored under refrigeration (4 °C) for 28 days; it was evaluated for its physical, chemical, antioxidant, and microbiological characteristics. Compared to the standard non-fermented sample during storage, the fermented drink showed significant variations (P < 0.05) in instrumental color, acidity, and pH, while changes in soluble solids and stability index were observed after 7 days of storage. Regarding the chemical composition, all parameters varied significantly after fermentation. The total phenolic compound content and antioxidant capacity increased significantly after fermentation. Significant reductions were observed (P < 0.05) in the viability of Lactobacillus casei after exposure to gastrointestinal tract conditions, with the following counts (in log CFU mL-1) after 0 and 28 days of storage: - initial: 9.23 ± 0.04 and 9.05 ± 0.12; after the gastric phase: 6.21 ± 0.09 and 5.90 ± 0.01; and after the intestinal phase: 4.59 ± 0.33 and 4.75 ± 0.23, respectively.

RESUMO: O coco é uma fruta cultivada em mais de 80 países e devido ao seu excelente valor nutricional e biológico é uma importante cultura para a indústria alimentícia. Assim, desenvolver novos produtos à base de coco é atrativo para explorar os benefícios proporcionados por microrganismos e melhorar a composição nutricional e bioativa de produtos de coco, como na preparação de bebidas fermentadas. Este estudo desenvolveu e caracterizou uma bebida à base de coco seco com o prebiótico frutooligossacarídeo, fermentada pelo probiótico Lactobacillus casei. A bebida foi formulada, filtrada, fermentada, maturada e armazenada sob refrigeração (4 °C) por 28 dias; além de avaliada em relação às suas características físicas, químicas, antioxidantes e microbiológicas. Quando comparada à amostra padrão não-fermentada ao longo do armazenamento, a bebida fermentada apresentou variações significativas (P < 0.05) para cor instrumental, acidez e pH, enquanto as alterações para sólidos solúveis e índice de estabilidade foram observadas a partir do 7° dia de armazenamento. Em relação à composição química, todos os parâmetros variaram significativamente após o processo fermentativo. O teor de compostos fenólicos totais e capacidade antioxidante aumentaram significativamente após a fermentação. Reduções significativas foram observadas (P < 0,05) na viabilidade do Lactobacillus casei após a exposição às condições do trato gastrointestinal, com as seguintes contagens (em UFC mL-1) após 0 e 28 dias de armazenamento: - inicial: 9,23 ± 0.04 e 9,05 ± 0,12; após a fase gástrica: 6,21 ± 0,09 e 5,90 ± 0,01; e após a fase intestinal: 4,59 ± 0,33 e 4,75 ± 0,23, respectivamente.

Spatial patterns of the leaf crown borer Eupalamides cyparissias (Cramer, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Castiniidae) in coconut (Cocos nucifera L) tropical region / Padrões espaciais da broca da coroa da folha Eupalamides cyparissias (Cramer, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Castiniidae) em coco (Cocos nucifera L) região tropical

The leaf crown borer Eupalamides cyparissias (Cramer, 1775) is an important pest of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) and other palms (Arecaceae) of economic importance, attacking the base of leaves, inflorescences, and infructescences, increasing fruit abortion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the spatial correlation of the infestation rate of E. cyparissias in coconut plantation blocks in the Brazilian Amazon, from January to December 2019, in the city of Santa Izabel, Pará, Brazil. The study area is a farm subdivided into 157 blocks of a commercial plantation of the green dwarf coconut. The Local Moran's Index was used to evaluate the existence of spatial autocorrelation of the E. cyparissias infestation rate in the 157 blocks with neighboring blocks. The infestation rate was calculated by the ratio between the number of plants attacked by the borer and the total number of plants in a block. There is a significant correlation of the symptomatology of the attack by E. cyparissias in the blocks of the experimental area, which indicates an aggregated pattern of distribution. There is no significant correlation between the attack by the borer and the age of the coconut tree; however there is a significant correlation between the attack by the borer and proximity to forest areas. These results indicate that forest regions are foci of infestation by the borer in coconut plantations.

A broca-da-coroa-foliar Eupalamides cyparissias (Cramer, 1775) é um importante praga para as culturas do coqueiro (Cocos nucifera Linnaeus) e outras palmeiras (Areacaceae) de importância econômica, atacando a base de folhas, inflorescências e infrutescências acarretando o aumento do abortamento de frutos. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a distribuição espacial da taxa de plantas com sintomas de ataque por E. cyparissias das quadras de plantio de coqueiro na Amazônia brasileira, de janeiro a dezembro de 2019, no município de Santa Izabel, Pará, Brasil. A área de estudo é uma fazenda subdividida em 157 quadras de plantio comercial de coqueiro anão verde (C. nucifera). O Índice de Moran Local foi utilizado para avaliar a existência de autocorrelação espacial da variável sintomatologia do ataque de E. cyparissias das 157 quadras com as quadras vizinhas. Há correlação significativa da sintomatologia do ataque por E. cyparissias nas quadras da área experimental, o que indica um padrão de distribuição agregado. Não há correlação significativa entre o ataque pela broca e idade do coqueiro, no entanto há correlação significativa entre o ataque pela broca e proximidade a áreas de mata. Esses resultados indicam que regiões de floresta são focos de infestação pela broca em plantios de coqueiro.

Elaboration, characterization, and probiotic viability of synbiotic non-dairy drink based on coconut / Elaboração, caracterização e viabilidade probiótica de bebida simbiótica não-láctea a base de coco

Coconut is a fruit grown in more than 80 countries owing to its outstanding nutritional and biological value and it is an important crop for the food industry" por "Coconut is a fruit grown in more than 80 countries and owing to its outstanding nutritional and biological value and it is an important crop for the food industry. Thus, developing new coconut-based products is attractive to explore the benefits provided by microorganisms and improve the nutritional and bioactive composition of coconut products, such as by preparing fermented beverages. This study developed and characterize a drink based on dry coconut with the prebiotic fructooligosaccharide fermented by the probiotic Lactobacillus casei. The drink was formulated, filtered, fermented, matured, and stored under refrigeration (4 °C) for 28 days; it was evaluated for its physical, chemical, antioxidant, and microbiological characteristics. Compared to the standard non-fermented sample during storage, the fermented drink showed significant variations (P < 0.05) in instrumental color, acidity, and pH, while changes in soluble solids and stability index were observed after 7 days of storage. Regarding the chemical composition, all parameters varied significantly after fermentation. The total phenolic compound content and antioxidant capacity increased significantly after fermentation. Significant reductions were observed (P < 0.05) in the viability of Lactobacillus casei after exposure to gastrointestinal tract conditions, with the following counts (in log CFU mL-1) after 0 and 28 days of storage: - initial: 9.23 ± 0.04 and 9.05 ± 0.12; after the gastric phase: 6.21 ± 0.09 and 5.90 ± 0.01; and after the intestinal phase: 4.59 ± 0.33 and 4.75 ± 0.23, respectively.

O coco é uma fruta cultivada em mais de 80 países e devido ao seu excelente valor nutricional e biológico é uma importante cultura para a indústria alimentícia. Assim, desenvolver novos produtos à base de coco é atrativo para explorar os benefícios proporcionados por microrganismos e melhorar a composição nutricional e bioativa de produtos de coco, como na preparação de bebidas fermentadas. Este estudo desenvolveu e caracterizou uma bebida à base de coco seco com o prebiótico frutooligossacarídeo, fermentada pelo probiótico Lactobacillus casei. A bebida foi formulada, filtrada, fermentada, maturada e armazenada sob refrigeração (4 °C) por 28 dias; além de avaliada em relação às suas características físicas, químicas, antioxidantes e microbiológicas. Quando comparada à amostra padrão não-fermentada ao longo do armazenamento, a bebida fermentada apresentou variações significativas (P < 0.05) para cor instrumental, acidez e pH, enquanto as alterações para sólidos solúveis e índice de estabilidade foram observadas a partir do 7° dia de armazenamento. Em relação à composição química, todos os parâmetros variaram significativamente após o processo fermentativo. O teor de compostos fenólicos totais e capacidade antioxidante aumentaram significativamente após a fermentação. Reduções significativas foram observadas (P < 0,05) na viabilidade do Lactobacillus casei após a exposição às condições do trato gastrointestinal, com as seguintes contagens (em UFC mL-1) após 0 e 28 dias de armazenamento: - inicial: 9,23 ± 0.04 e 9,05 ± 0,12; após a fase gástrica: 6,21 ± 0,09 e 5,90 ± 0,01; e após a fase intestinal: 4,59 ± 0,33 e 4,75 ± 0,23, respectivamente.

Refrigeração de sêmen canino em meio diluente à base de água de coco (Cocos nucifera) natural / Canine semen refrigeration in a natural coconut water (Cocos nucifera)-based extender / Refrigeración de semen canino en un medio diluyente natural a base de agua de coco (Cocos nucifera)

A inseminação artificial em cadelas contribui para o melhoramento genético da espécie, previne algumas doenças sexualmente transmissíveis a partir da cópula e possibilita a reprodução de animais que não poderiam copular de forma natural, seja por motivos anatômicos, geográficos ou comportamentais. Todavia, nem sempre é possível utilizar o sêmen fresco, sendo assim necessário um diluente para resfriar e mantê-lo viável por determinado período. Diante disso, o objetivo com este trabalho foi analisar o sêmen canino diluído em água de coco e refrigerado, à 5 ºC em diferentes tempos. Foram utilizados cinco cães da raça Hounds do Brasil, realizando três colheitas de sêmen de cada animal, com intervalos de sete dias. Os ejaculados foram mantidos a temperatura de 37ºC e realizado análises macroscópicas (volume, cor, aspecto e odor) e microscópicas (motilidade, vigor, concentração e morfologia espermática). Em seguida, os ejaculados foram diluídos em água de coco natural a uma concentração de 200 milhões de espermatozoides/mL, e mantidos à temperatura de 5 °C, por até 72 horas. Nos intervalos de seis, doze, vinte e quatro, trinta e seis, quarenta e oito, e setenta e duas horas, as amostras foram avaliadas quanto a motilidade e vigor espermático. Os ejaculados frescos apresentaram em média volume de 6,2 mL, cor branca, aspecto aquoso a leitoso, odor "sui generis", motilidade espermática de 89,5 %, vigor espermático 4,3, concentração média de 418 x106espermatozoides/mL e 7,3% de alterações patológicas. Após o início do resfriamento à 5 ºC, os valores de motilidade e vigor diminuíram com o passar do tempo, sendo os menores valores encontrados após 48 e 72 horas. O diluente a água de coco in natura mostrou-se eficiente para refrigeração de sêmen canino, à 5 ºC, conservando-o por um período de até 36h após a colheita, conforme preconizado pelo Colégio Brasileiro de Reprodução Animal.(AU)

improvement of the species, prevents some sexually transmitted diseases through copulation and allows the reproduction of animals that could not copulate naturally, either for anatomical, geographic or behavioral reasons. However, it is not always possible to use fresh semen, thus requiring a diluent to cool and keep it viable for a certain period. Therefore, the objective of this work was to analyze canine semen diluted in coconut water and refrigerated at 5 ºC at different times. Five Brazilian Hounds were used, performing three semen collections from each animal, with intervals of seven days. The ejaculates were kept at a temperature of 37 ºC and macroscopic (volume, color, appearance and odor) and microscopic (motility, vigor, concentration and sperm morphology) analyzes were performed. Then, the ejaculates were diluted in natural coconut water at a concentration of 200 million sperm/mL, and kept at a temperature of 5 °C for up to 72 hours. At intervals of six, twelve, twenty-four, thirty-six, forty-eight, and seventy-two hours, samples were evaluated for sperm motility and vigor. Fresh ejaculates had an average volume of 6.2 mL, white color, watery to milky appearance, "sui generis" odor, 89.5% sperm motility, 4.3 sperm vigor, average concentration of 418 x106 spermatozoa/mL and 7.3%pathological changes. After the beginning of cooling at 5 °C, the values of motility and vigor decreased over time, with the lowest values found after 48 and 72 hours. The in natura coconut water extender proved to be efficient for cooling canine semen at5 ºC, keeping it for a period of up to 36 hours after harvest, as recommended by the Brazilian College of Animal Reproduction.(AU)

Artificial insemination in bitches contributes to the genetic La inseminación artificial en perras contribuye a la mejora genética de la especie, previene algunas enfermedades de transmisión sexual a través de la cópula y permite la reproducción de animales que no podrían copular de forma natural, ya sea por razones anatómicas, geográficas o de comportamiento. Sin embargo, no siempre es posible utilizar semen fresco, por lo que se requiere un diluyente para enfriarlo y mantenerlo viable durante un cierto período. Por tanto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar semen canino diluido en agua de coco y refrigerado a 5 ºC en diferentes tiempos. Se utilizaron cinco sabuesos brasileños, realizándose tres colectas de semen de cada animal, con intervalos de siete días. Los eyaculados se mantuvieron a una temperatura de 37 ºC y se realizaron análisis macroscópicos (volumen, color, apariencia y olor) y microscópicos (motilidad, vigor, concentración y morfología espermática). Luego, los eyaculados se diluyeron en agua de coco natural a una concentración de 200 millones de espermatozoides/mL y se mantuvieron a una temperatura de 5 °C hasta por 72 horas. A intervalos de seis, doce, veinticuatro, treinta y seis, cuarenta y ocho y setenta y dos horas, se evaluó la motilidad y el vigor de los espermatozoides en las muestras. Los eyaculados frescos tuvieron un volumen promedio de 6,2 mL, color blanco, apariencia acuosa a lechosa, olor "sui generis", motilidad espermática de 89,5%, vigor espermático de 4,3, concentración promedio de 418 x106 espermatozoides/mL y cambios patológicos de 7,3%. Después del inicio del enfriamiento a 5 °C, los valores de motilidad y vigor disminuyeron con el tiempo, encontrándose los valores más bajos a las 48 y 72 horas. El diluyente de agua de coco in natura demostró ser eficaz para enfriar el semen canino a5 ºC, manteniéndolo por un período de hasta 36 horas después de la cosecha, según lo recomendado por el Colegio Brasileño de Reproducción Animal.(AU)

Production of dinizia excelsaducke (fabaceae) seedlings subjected to increasing doses of controlled release fertilizer / Produção de mudas de dinizia excelsaducke (fabaceae) submetidas a doses crescentes de fertilizante de liberação controlada

Dinizia excelsais one of the largest trees in the Amazon rainforest, with significant economic potential for the recovery of degraded areas. It is a key species for biodiversity and increased forestbiomass. However, studies related to seedling production of this species are still scarce. In this study, we evaluated the production and quality of D. excelsaseedlings in response to the application of controlled-release fertilizer doses. The experimental design was completely randomized, applying different doses of Osmocote®(T1=0; T2=4.1; T3=8.2; and T4=12.3 g.dm-³) with four replicates, using vermiculite and coconut fiber (1:1 v/v) as the substrate. We assessed the number of leaves and leaflets, shoot and root length, stem diameter, seedling height, shoot-to-stem diameter ratio, leaf area, dry mass of shoot, root, and total biomass. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression analysis. The seedlings responded positively to the use of Osmocote®, and starting from the 4.1 g.dm-³dose, biomass accumulation showed better results, making it a recommended practice that allows cost savings in seedling production of this species.(AU)

Dinizia excelsaé uma das maiores árvores da floresta amazônica, com grande potencial econômico para recuperação de áreas degradadas. Trata-se de uma espécie-chave para diversidade e aumento da biomassa florestal. Ainda são escassos os estudos relacionados à produção seminal de mudas da espécie. Nós avaliamos a produção e a qualidade de mudas de D. excelsaem resposta à aplicação de doses de adubo de liberação controlada. O delineamento adotado foi inteiramente casualizado, aplicando-se diferentes doses de Osmocote®(T1=0; T2=4.1; T3= 8.2 e T4=12.3 g.dm-³) com quatro repetições, utilizando-se como substrato vermiculita e fibra de coco (1:1 v/v). Foram avaliados número de folhas e folíolos, comprimento da parte aérea e raiz, diâmetro do coleto, altura das mudas, relação comprimento da parte aérea e diâmetro do coleto, área foliar, massa seca da parte aérea, raiz e total. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e regressão. As mudas responderam positivamente ao uso do adubo Osmocote®e a partir da dose 4.1 g.dm-³o acúmulo de biomassa apresentou melhores resultados, podendo ser recomendada, permitindo uma economia nos custos de produção seminal de mudas da espécie.(AU)

Diferentes concentrações antibióticas adicionadas ao diluente de sêmen suíno / Different antibiotic concentrations added to the swine semen extender

Devido a contaminação bacteriana, utiliza-se antibióticos nos diluentes de sêmen para inibir o crescimento bacteriano durante a sua estocagem. Assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo determinar o limite de toxicidade de diferentes concentrações antibióticas da penicilina/estreptomicina adicionadas ao meio diluente do sêmen e investigar a influência sobre a motilidade espermática. Para isso, o sêmen de cinco reprodutores híbridos comerciais foi coletado uma vez por semana, durante nove semanas, através da técnica da mão enluvada. Cada ejaculado foi distribuído de forma igual entre todos os tratamentos, que consistiram em diferentes concentrações de solução de antibióticos, sendo: T1 = 0,0g/L (controle); T2 = 4,2g/L; e T3 = 12,6g/L. O sêmen diluído em água de coco em pó (ACP-103@) foi conservado por cinco dias e analisado nos dias: D0 (dia da coleta), D2 e D4 (último dia de conservação) quanto ao vigor e à motilidade espermática. Em D0, o sêmen conservado em diluente acrescido de 12,6g de solução antibiótica apresentou menor valor de vigor espermático em relação aos demais tratamentos (p<0,05). Já em D2 e D4, os tratamentos contendo antibióticos apresentaram resultados de vigor aquém dos obtidos no grupo controle (p<0,05). Em relação à motilidade espermática, os maiores percentuais de células móveis foram observados nas amostras de sêmen conservadas em ACP 0,0g/L (controle) quando comparados aos demais tratamentos (p<0,05). Conclui-se que as concentrações antibióticas utilizadas no estudo (4,2 e 12,6 g/L) mostraram efeitos tóxicos logo após a diluição do sêmen suíno, afetando de forma negativa parâmetros seminais durante a conservação a 17 °C.

Due to bacterial contamination, antibiotics are used in semen extenders to inhibit bacterial growth during storage. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the toxicity limit of different antibiotic concentrations of penicillin/streptomycin added to the semen extender and investigate the influence on sperm motility. For this purpose, semen from five commercial hybrid breeders was collected once a week for 9 weeks, using the gloved hand technique. Each ejaculate was distributed equally among all treatments, which consisted of different concentrations of antibiotic solution: T1 = 0.0g/L (control); T2 = 4.2g/L; T3 = 12.6g/L. The semen diluted in powdered coconut water (ACP-103@) was kept for 5 days and analyzed on the following days: D0 (collection day), D2, and D4 (last conservation day) for sperm vigor and motility. In D0, the semen preserved in the diluent added with 12.6 g of antibiotic solution showed a lower sperm vigor value compared to the other treatments (p<0.05). In D2 and D4, treatments containing antibiotics presented vigor results below those obtained in the control group (p<0.05). Regarding sperm motility, higher percentages of mobile cells were observed in semen samples conserved in ACP 0.0 g/L (control) when compared to the other treatments (p<0.05). It is concluded that the antibiotic concentrations used in the study (4.2 and 12.6 g/L) showed toxic effects soon after the swine semen, negatively affecting seminal parameters during storage at 17 °C.

The monodominance of Acuri in Pantanal formations: allelochemical effects of its leaves and the presence of Acurizais / A monodominância do Acuri em formações do Pantanal: efeitos aleloquímicos de suas folhas e a presença de acurizais

The presence of monodominant vegetative formations almost exclusively composed of Acuri palm trees (Attalea phalerata) stands out in some regions of the Pantanal Sul-Mato-Grossense. These formations are generally associated with anthropic, edaphic and/or hydrological factors. However, little is known about the effect of allelopathy on the formation and maintenance of these areas. Herein, we investigated the chemical composition of A. phalerata aqueous leaf extract and the potential allelopathic effects on germination and growth of target L. sativa, L. esculentum and S. obtusifolia species. Thus, extracts at concentrations of 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, and 20% were used for germination and growth bioassays with a completely randomised design in a germination chamber and greenhouse. The results showed that the A. phalerata extracts negatively affected the germination speed index and mean germination time of the target species and positively affected seedling length under controlled conditions and were also stimulated in the greenhouse. Thus, the formation of Acurizals can be related to the presence of secondary metabolites in the leaves, in addition to other environmental factors.

No Pantanal Sul-Mato-Grossense se destaca, em determinadas regiões, a presença de formações vegetacionais monodominantes, compostas quase que exclusivamente por uma espécie de palmeira, o Acuri (Attalea phalerata). Normalmente estas formações estão associadas a fatores antrópicos, edáficos e/ou hidrológicos. Porém pouco se sabe sobre o efeito da alelopatia na formação e manutenção destas áreas. Desta maneira, objetivou-se estudar a composição química dos extratos aquosos das folhas de A. phalerata e seus possíveis efeitos alelopáticos na germinação e crescimento das espécies-alvo, alface, tomate e fedegoso. Para os bioensaios de germinação e crescimento, foram utilizados extratos nas concentrações de 0, 2,5, 5, 10, 15 e 20%, com delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em câmara de germinação e casa de vegetação. Os resultados demostraram que em condições controladas (câmara de germinação), os extratos de A. phalerata afetaram negativamente o índice de velocidade de germinação e o tempo médio de geminação das espécies-alvo e positivamente, o comprimento das plântulas, que também foram estimuladas em casa de vegetação, indicando a presença de fitormônios. Desta maneira, a formação de Acurizais pode estar relacionada à presença de metabolitos secundários nas folhas, além de outros fatores ambientais.

Sustained deficit irrigation on yield and fruit water quality of dwarf green coconut / Efeito da irrigação com déficit hídrico sustentado sobre a produtividade e qualidade da água dos frutos do coqueiro anão verde

This study evaluated the effects of sustained deficit irrigation (SDI) on fruit yield and fruit water quality of dwarf green coconut trees. The experiment was carried out in a commercial orchard located in Camocim, Ceará, Brazil. Four years old coconut trees were irrigated during 29 months, using micro-sprinklers, at irrigation depths equivalent to 55%, 77%, 100% and 131% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc). Green coconut fruits were harvested six months after flower aperture and evaluated for number of fruits per plant, volume of coconut water per fruit and total soluble solids of the coconut water. SDI reduced coconut fruit yield, fruit water volume and coconut water yield. Conversely, SDI increased total soluble solids of the coconut water and irrigation water productivity in terms of fruits and coconut water. Deficit irrigation showed no economic advantage over full irrigation due to the small reduction in irrigation costs compared to the substantial reduction in gross revenue.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da irrigação com déficit sustentado (SDI) sobre a produção e a qualidade da água de frutos do coqueiro Anão Verde. O experimento foi realizado em um pomar comercial localizado em Camocim, Ceará, Brasil. Plantas com quatro anos de idade foram irrigadas por microaspersão, durante 29 meses, com lâminas de irrigação equivalentes a 55%, 77%, 100% e 131% da evapotranspiração da cultura (ETc). Os frutos foram colhidos seis meses após a abertura das flores e avaliados quanto ao número de frutos por planta, volume de água de coco por fruto e sólidos solúveis totais da água de coco. A SDI reduziu a produtividade de frutos, o volume de água do fruto e a produção de água de coco por planta. Por outro lado, a SDI aumentou os sólidos solúveis totais da água de coco e a produtividade da água de irrigação em termos de frutas e água de coco. A SDI não apresentou vantagem econômica sobre a irrigação plena devido à pequena redução nos custos de irrigação em comparação à redução substancial da receita bruta.

Growth of black pepper plantlets under different substrates and irrigation levels

ABSTRACT Optimization of the use of water and the possibility of using residues as substrate in the black pepper production chain can yield economic and environmental benefits. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometric and physiological traits of black pepper plantlets (Piper nigrum L.), cv. Bragantina, at different irrigation levels and soilless substrates. Plantlets were grown for 120 days on three substrates [biosolid + crushed coconut fiber (3:1, by volume); biosolid + granitic rock powder (3:1, by volume); and biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder (2:1:1, by volume)] and at five irrigation levels [36 % (very low); 55 % (low); 85 % (moderate); 100 % (well-irrigated); and 126 % of the reference irrigation level (over-irrigated)]. The biometric traits evaluated increased as the irrigation levels increased, with the exception of root dry mass, which was not influenced by this factor, nor water use efficiency, which decreased as the irrigation levels increased. In general, plants grown with a mixture of the three wastes (biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder) exhibited higher values for biometric variables and chlorophyll content when they were moderately, well or over-irrigated, in comparison with the other two substrates. It was possible to achieve the plantlet commercial standard using this three waste mixture and the moderate irrigation level.

Assessment of coconut water added to Numida meleagris egg yolk as cryoprotectant for goat semen

Effects were assessed of the dilutants TRIS and ACP - 101c® with the addition of different guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) egg yolk concentrations. Fifteen ejaculates were collected from five goats of the Anglo Nubian breed. The ejaculates were pooled and then divided into 12 groups, two control groups (GC1 TRIS, with 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD), (GC2 Control Group ACP - 101c®, with the addition of 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD) and ten experimental groups (EG), containing TRIS and ACP added with different concentrations of egg yolk from guinea hen (Numida meleagris) (TRIS 2,5% GONM; TRIS 5% GONM; TRIS 10% GONM; TRIS 15% GONM; TRIS 20% GONM; ACP® 2,5% GONM; ACP® 5% GONM; ACP® 10% GONM; ACP® 15% GONM; ACP® 20% GONM). Then cryopreservation was carried out and the samples stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After seven days, the samples were thawed and assessed for spermatic kinetics, immunofluorescence and sperm morphology. Analysis of GOMN by the CASA system showed that the various parameters were similar to those of GOGD (P>0.05). The membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential and the acrosome were not influenced by the treatment (P>0.05) nor by the dilutant used for cryopreservation (P>0.05). The spermatic morphology was also preserved by the different GOGD and GONM concentrations in the ACP® and TRIS dilutants, with no statistically significant differences (P<0.05). It was concluded that Numida meleagris egg yolk, as external membrane cryoproctant added to the dilutants ACP-101c® and TRIS, improved goat semen quality.(AU)

Effects of Medium Chain Fatty Acid Supplementation in Broiler Diet on Microbiological Quality of Litter

In our experiment, coconut and palm oil supplementation was added to the diet of broiler chickens to prove the hypothesis that medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) can reduce the occurrence of potential pathogens (Clostridium perfingens, Coliform) in gut microflore and therefore improve bird welfare. Cobb 500 cockerels were divided in five groups. Control birds were fed commercial broiler diet, while birds in the four treatment group diets were supplemented with coconut, palm oil, or a combination of the two, respectively. As a positive control, sunflower oil supplementation was included in the diet of the fifth group. During the 28 days of the study (from 14 to 42 days of life), 5 samplings were scheduled, when excreta samples were taken from the litter to analyse total microbial count and the number of Clostridia, Coliforms, and Salmonella. According to the results of microbiological analysis, coconut oil supplementation led to the continuous decline of Clostridium perfringens numbers until they vanished by the end of the experimental period. A similar but faster decline was found as a result of palm oil and the combined (palm oil+coconut oil) treatment. However, the number of Coliforms and total microbial count changed only slightly by the end of the study. No Salmonella spp. was present in the samples throughout the experiment. Altogether, coconut and palm oil supplementation has a beneficial effect on the microbiological composition of poultry litter.(AU)

Effects of Medium Chain Fatty Acid Supplementation in Broiler Diet on Microbiological Quality of Litter

In our experiment, coconut and palm oil supplementation was added to the diet of broiler chickens to prove the hypothesis that medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) can reduce the occurrence of potential pathogens (Clostridium perfingens, Coliform) in gut microflore and therefore improve bird welfare. Cobb 500 cockerels were divided in five groups. Control birds were fed commercial broiler diet, while birds in the four treatment group diets were supplemented with coconut, palm oil, or a combination of the two, respectively. As a positive control, sunflower oil supplementation was included in the diet of the fifth group. During the 28 days of the study (from 14 to 42 days of life), 5 samplings were scheduled, when excreta samples were taken from the litter to analyse total microbial count and the number of Clostridia, Coliforms, and Salmonella. According to the results of microbiological analysis, coconut oil supplementation led to the continuous decline of Clostridium perfringens numbers until they vanished by the end of the experimental period. A similar but faster decline was found as a result of palm oil and the combined (palm oil+coconut oil) treatment. However, the number of Coliforms and total microbial count changed only slightly by the end of the study. No Salmonella spp. was present in the samples throughout the experiment. Altogether, coconut and palm oil supplementation has a beneficial effect on the microbiological composition of poultry litter.

Growth of black pepper plantlets under different substrates and irrigation levels

Optimization of the use of water and the possibility of using residues as substrate in the black pepper production chain can yield economic and environmental benefits. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometric and physiological traits of black pepper plantlets (Piper nigrum L.), cv. Bragantina, at different irrigation levels and soilless substrates. Plantlets were grown for 120 days on three substrates [biosolid + crushed coconut fiber (3:1, by volume); biosolid + granitic rock powder (3:1, by volume); and biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder (2:1:1, by volume)] and at five irrigation levels [36 % (very low); 55 % (low); 85 % (moderate); 100 % (well-irrigated); and 126 % of the reference irrigation level (over-irrigated)]. The biometric traits evaluated increased as the irrigation levels increased, with the exception of root dry mass, which was not influenced by this factor, nor water use efficiency, which decreased as the irrigation levels increased. In general, plants grown with a mixture of the three wastes (biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder) exhibited higher values for biometric variables and chlorophyll content when they were moderately, well or over-irrigated, in comparison with the other two substrates. It was possible to achieve the plantlet commercial standard using this three waste mixture and the moderate irrigation level.

Growth of black pepper plantlets under different substrates and irrigation levels

Optimization of the use of water and the possibility of using residues as substrate in the black pepper production chain can yield economic and environmental benefits. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometric and physiological traits of black pepper plantlets (Piper nigrum L.), cv. Bragantina, at different irrigation levels and soilless substrates. Plantlets were grown for 120 days on three substrates [biosolid + crushed coconut fiber (3:1, by volume); biosolid + granitic rock powder (3:1, by volume); and biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder (2:1:1, by volume)] and at five irrigation levels [36 % (very low); 55 % (low); 85 % (moderate); 100 % (well-irrigated); and 126 % of the reference irrigation level (over-irrigated)]. The biometric traits evaluated increased as the irrigation levels increased, with the exception of root dry mass, which was not influenced by this factor, nor water use efficiency, which decreased as the irrigation levels increased. In general, plants grown with a mixture of the three wastes (biosolid + crushed coconut fiber + granitic rock powder) exhibited higher values for biometric variables and chlorophyll content when they were moderately, well or over-irrigated, in comparison with the other two substrates. It was possible to achieve the plantlet commercial standard using this three waste mixture and the moderate irrigation level.(AU)

Method for the physical characterization of substrates using centrifugation

The characterization of substrate properties supports the correct choice of components and directs management decisions in container cultivation. There are several systems of analysis, however, the routine procedures to determine the water retention curve (WRC) are time consuming and inaccurate. This study proposed a reproducible, less time-consuming, and easy to perform method for physical characterization of substrates. We used Sphagnum peat, coconut powder, carbonized rice husk, expanded vermiculite, and expanded clay in isolation. The WRC was obtained at tensions 0, 10, 50, and 100 hPa using the method of Büchner funnel, the European standard (CEN-EN13041), and by the centrifugation method of samples. In centrifugation, tensions were simulated by combining the angular velocity, sample height, and radius measured from the sample outermost point to the central point of the centrifuge. Three rotations were applied (230; 520 and 730 rpm), testing the centrifugation time for each tension and then the volumetric water content was compared between the methods. The results showed a positive correlation (p < 0.001) between the centrifugation and standard methods, considering that the centrifugation time required for moisture stabilization varied according to the material analyzed and the tension applied. However, the time required to obtain a report was reduced by half. Sample centrifugation is a promising method, ensuring that the tensile force actually acts on the entire sample to determine the water retention curve of the substrate also reducing the duration of the analyses.

Thermogenic oils as a substitute forractopamine in the production of heavy pigs / Óleos termogênicos em substituição a ractopamina na produção de suínos em fase de pós-terminação

This study aimed to assess the effects of thermogenic oils (safflower and coconut oils) as a replacement for ractopamine in heavy pig diets. A total of 24 mix-breed barrows with an average weight of 98.70 ± 1.63 kg were distributed in a randomized block design with four treatments and six replicates. Treatments were as follows: basal diet, modified basal diet + 10 ppm ractopamine, basal diet + safflower oil, and basal diet + coconut oil. Animal performance, organ weights, meat quality, carcass traits, and economic viability were determined. Data were analyzed using Duncan's test at the 5% significance level. The safflower oil diet resulted in the highest carcass meat and ham weights, whereas the coconut oil diet provided the highest loin eye area and the lowest fat area, resulting in the highest meat/fat ratio. Analysis of economic viability indicators revealed that vegetable oil treatments differed significantly from other treatments in feed cost, feed cost per kilogram of live weight, economic viability index, and cost index, given that oil inclusion increased the price of diets. Supplementation of heavy pig diets with thermogenic oils is a viable alternative to enhance lean meat production, but its use depends on market availability and product price.(AU)

Este estudo visou avaliar os efeitos dos óleos termogênicos (óleos de cártamo e de coco) como substitutos da racto-pamina em dietas de suínos pesados. Um total de 24 suínos machos castrados com um peso médio de 98,70 ± 1,63 kg foram distribuídos em um modelo de blocos aleatorizados com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram os seguintes: dieta basal (RB), RB modificada + 10 ppm de ractopamina, RB + óleo de cártamo, e RB + óleo de coco. Foram determinados o desempenho animal, pesos dos órgãos, qualidade da carne, características da carcaça, e viabilidade económica. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o teste de Duncan ao nível de 5% de significância. A dieta de óleo de Cártamo resultou na maior quan-tidade de carne de carcaça e pesos de pernil, enquanto que a dieta de óleo de coco forneceu a maior área do olho do lombo e a menor área de gordura, resultando na maior relação carne/gordura. A análise dos indicadores de viabilidade económica reve-lou que os tratamentos com óleo vegetal diferiram significativamente de outros tratamentos no custo da alimentação, custo da alimentação por quilograma de peso vivo, índice de viabilidade económica, e índice de custo, dado que a inclusão do óleo aumentou o preço das dietas. A suplementação de dietas de suínos pesados com óleos termogênicos é uma alternativa viável para aumentar a produção de carne magra, mas a sua utilização depende da disponibilidade no mercado e do preço do produto.(AU)

In vitro propagation and conservation of Cattleya tigrina A Rich / Propagação e conservação in vitro de Cattleya tigrina A Rich

Cattleya tigrina A. Rich has been suffering heavy losses in its natural habitat and it is now included in the list of plants that are vulnerable to extinction. The development of in vitro propagation and conservation methodologies, as well as acclimatization, are considered important for species at the risk of extinction, as they promote the multiplication and conservation of the species, hence avoiding the loss of their genetic variability. The present study established the protocol of micropropagation and the in vitro conservation of C. tigrina. For the in vitro propagation, the study tested two volumes of the MS medium and two medium consistencies (stationary liquid and semi-solid). For acclimatization, the substrate mixtures containing pine bark, charcoal, vermiculite, and coconut coir were analyzed. For the in vitro conservation, different concentrations of the salts were tested in the MS medium, together with the osmotic regulators (sucrose, mannitol, and sorbitol), and at two temperatures (18 and 25 °C). The results obtained inferred that the semi-solid medium was superior to the stationary liquid medium in the variables of survival and the presence of roots, while the liquid medium was superior to the semi-solid medium in the number of shoots. For acclimatization, pine bark was the substrate where the plants developed an improved height, with sprouting, and rooting. The conservation was satisfactory and the plants remained viable for a period of 730 days, with the MS medium with 25% of the salts, and at temperatures of 18 ºC or 25 ºC. The plants were propagated in the stationary liquid MS medium (10 mL) and the semi-solid medium (25 mL), while they were acclimatized in pine bark and preserved in the MS medium with 25% of the salts (18 ºC or 25 ºC).

A Cattleya tigrina A. Rich vem sofrendo grandes perdas no seu habitat natural, sendo assim foi inclusa na lista de vulneráveis a extinção. O desenvolvimento de metodologias de propagação e conservação in vitro, bem como de aclimatização, são consideradas importantes para espécies em risco de extinção, por promover a multiplicação e conservação da espécie, evitando a perda do seu material genético. Desta forma, o presente trabalho visou estabelecer protocolo de micropropagação e conservação in vitro de C. tigrina. Para propagação in vitro testou volumes de meio de cultura e duas consistências do meio MS (líquido estacionário e semissólido). Para aclimatização, analisou misturas de substratos contendo casca de pinus, carvão vegetal, vermiculita e pó de coco. Para conservação in vitro, foram testados diferentes concentrações de sais no meio MS, reguladores osmóticos (sacarose, manitol e sorbitol), e duas temperaturas (18 e 25 °C). Os resultados obtidos inferem que, o meio de cultura semissólido foi superior ao líquido nas variáveis sobrevivência e presença de raízes, enquanto que o meio líquido foi superior ao meio semissólido em números de brotos. Na aclimatização a casca de pinus foi o substrato em que as plantas se desenvolveram melhor em altura, brotação e enraizamento. A conservação foi satisfatória e as plantas permaneceram viáveis por um período de 730 dias, usando 25% dos sais MS e temperatura de 18 ºC ou 25 ºC. As plantas podem ser propagadas em meio MS líquido estacionário (10 mL) ou semissólido (25 mL), aclimatizadas em casca de pinus e conservadas em 25% dos sais MS (18 ºC ou 25 ºC).

Heterologous in vitro fertilization and embryo production for assessment of jaguar (Panthera onca Linnaeus, 1758) frozen-thawed semen in different extenders

Heterologous in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an important tool for assessing fertility of endangered mammals such as the jaguar, considering difficult access to females for artificial insemination and to obtain homologous oocytes. We aimed to evaluate the fertility of jaguar sperm cryopreserved with different extenders, using domestic cat oocytes to assess the development of hybrid embryos. Semen from four captive jaguars was obtained by electroejaculation. Samples were cryopreserved in powdered coconut water (ACP-117c) or Tris extender containing 20% egg yolk and 6% glycerol. Thawed spermatozoa were resuspended (2.0 × 106 spermatozoa/mL) in IVF medium and co-incubated with cat oocytes matured in vitro for 18 h. Presumptive zygotes were cultured for 7 days. After 48 h, cleavage rate was evaluated, and non-cleaved structures were stained for IVF evaluation. On days 5 and 7, the rate of morula and blastocyst formation was assessed. Data were analyzed using the Fisher exact test (p < 0.05). No difference was observed between ACP-117c and Tris extenders, respectively, for oocytes with 2nd polar body (2/51, 3.9 ± 2.9% vs. 2/56, 3.6 ± 3.1%), pronuclear structures (5/51, 9.8 ± 4.7% vs. 8/56, 14.3 ± 8.0%), and total IVF rates (7/36, 19.4 ± 5.0% vs. 10/37, 27.0 ± 13.8%). All the samples fertilized the oocytes, with 22.9 ± 3.2% (16/70) and 16.7 ± 3.6% (12/72) cleavage of mature oocytes for ACP-117c and Tris extenders, respectively. Morula rates of 4.3 ± 2.3% (3/70) and 5.6 ± 2.2% (4/72) were observed for ACP-117c and Tris, respectively. Only the Tris extender demonstrated blastocyst production (2/12, 16.7 ± 1.5% blastocyst/cleavage). We demonstrated that jaguar ejaculates cryopreserved using ACP-117c and Tris were suitable for IVF techniques, with blastocyst production by ejaculates cryopreserved in Tris. This is a first report of embryos produced in vitro using jaguar sperm and domestic cat oocytes through IVF.(AU)

Geostatistical modeling of "lethal coconut palm crown atrophy", a new disease in the State of Pará / Modelagem geoestatística da "Atrofia Letal da Coroa Coqueiro", uma nova doença no Estado do Pará

'Lethal Coconut Palm Crown Atrophy' (LCCA) is a rapidly spreading disease in Brazil, capable of quickly killing coconut trees and threatening the commercial exploration of this plant. The objective of this work was to characterize the spatial and temporal distribution pattern of LCCA in green dwarf coconut commercial plantation areas, located the municipality of Santa Izabel, mesoregion of Northeastern Pará, Brazil. Surveys were carried out at monthly intervals between January 2014 and December 2018, checking for plants with LCCA-characteristic symptoms. Geostatistics was applied to perform spatial-temporal disease estimates based on semivariogram modeling and preparation of ordinary kriging maps. These spatial estimates are conducted through interpolations that characterize data variability in the area. The spherical model yielded the best fit to the spatial distribution of the disease, as it presented the best coefficient of determination (R²), with the range varying between 14m and 45m. The Spatial Dependence Index (SDI) was moderate in the evaluations carried out between 2014 and 2017 (in the 0.26-0.64 range), but not in 2018, when it was strong (0.23). The values of the clustering intensity of LCCA-symptomatic plants were estimated in nonsampled points. The spherical fit model of the data indicates an aggregated distribution pattern, shown by aggregation patches in the plantation, graded by values of dissemination intensity. The kriging maps allowed the observation that the disease expands between plants in the same line, suggesting the possibility of the presence of a short-range vector.(AU)

A 'Atrofia Letal da Coroa do Coqueiro' (ALCC) é uma doença de rápida disseminação no Brasil, capaz de matar os coqueiros rapidamente e ameaçar a exploração comercial da planta. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar o padrão de distribuição espacial e temporal de ALCC em áreas de plantio comercial de coco anão verde, localizadas no município de Santa Izabel, mesorregião do Nordeste do Pará, Brasil. As pesquisas foram realizadas em intervalos mensais entre janeiro de 2014 e dezembro de 2018, verificando se havia plantas com sintomas característicos da ALCC. A geoestatística foi aplicada para realizar estimativas espaço-temporais de doenças com base na modelagem de semivariogramas e na preparação de mapas de krigagem comuns. Essas estimativas espaciais são realizadas por meio de interpolações que caracterizam a variabilidade dos dados na área. O modelo esférico apresentou o melhor ajuste à distribuição espacial da doença, pois apresentou o melhor coeficiente de determinação (R²), com amplitude variando entre 14m e 45m. O Índice de Dependência Espacial (SDI) foi moderado nas avaliações realizadas entre 2014 e 2017 (na faixa de 0,26-0,64), mas não em 2018, quando era forte (0,23). Os valores da intensidade de agrupamento de plantas sintomáticas ALCC foram estimados em pontos não amostrados. O modelo de ajuste esférico dos dados indica um padrão de distribuição agregado, mostrado por manchas de agregação na plantação, graduadas por valores de intensidade de disseminação. Os mapas de krigagem permitiram observar que a doença se expande entre plantas na mesma linha, sugerindo a possibilidade da presença de um vetor de curto alcance.(AU)