Effect of a short-cycle apple tree cultivar on oriental fruit moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) development and larval behavior / Efeito de uma cultivar de macieira de ciclo curto no desenvolvimento e comportamento larval da mariposa oriental (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

The oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Busch, 1916) has historically been a major problem in traditional apple-growing regions in Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina; however, a lower occurrence of G. molesta has been observed in early variety ('Eva') than long cycles cultivar 'Gala' in Paraná State. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of immature and adult G. molesta in apple cultivars with short and long cycles, in addition to elucidating whether there is adaptive potential for development and fertility from the first generation to the fourth. The experimental treatments consisted of larvae fed 'Eva' and 'Gala' fruit and a commercial diet. Immature development time, head capsule width, longevity and reproductive parameters were compared across the treatments. The larvae of the fourth generation exhibited better performance than those of the first on 'Eva' and 'Gala'. Immature oriental fruit moth development occurred via four or five instars. A greater number of larvae with four instars occurred on 'Eva' than on 'Gala'. The head capsule width was narrower on 'Gala' than on 'Eva' for larvae with four instars. Females reared on 'Eva' also laid more eggs than those reared on 'Gala'. The larvae that were more adapted to the feeding conditions showed reduced cycles/instars, and the females exhibited better performance when new generations originated from the same substrate. The high fluctuation of G. molesta in 'Gala' orchards is not due to the nutritional condition of the fruits.(AU)

A mariposa oriental, Grapholita molesta (Busch, 1916), tem sido historicamente um grande problema nas regiões tradicionais de cultivo de maçã no Rio Grande do Sul e em Santa Catarina; entretanto, observou-se menor ocorrência de G. molesta na variedade precoce ('Eva') no Paraná do que na cultivar tardia 'Gala'. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho larval e adulto de G. molesta em cultivares de macieira com ciclos curtos e longos, além de elucidar se há potencial adaptativo para o desenvolvimento e fertilidade da primeira à quarta geração. Os tratamentos experimentais consistiram em larvas alimentadas com frutas 'Eva' e 'Gala' e uma dieta comercial. Tempo de desenvolvimento imaturo, largura da cápsula cefálica, longevidade e parâmetros reprodutivos foram comparados entre os tratamentos. As larvas da quarta geração exibiram melhor desempenho do que as da primeira em 'Eva' e 'Gala'. O desenvolvimento imaturo da mariposa oriental ocorreu em quatro ou cinco instares. Um maior número de larvas com quatro instares ocorreu em 'Eva' do que em 'Gala'. A largura da cápsula da cabeça foi mais estreita em 'Gala' do que em 'Eva' para larvas com quatro instares. As fêmeas criadas em 'Eva' também colocam mais ovos do que aquelas criadas em 'Gala'. As larvas mais adaptadas às condições de alimentação apresentaram instares reduzidos, e as fêmeas exibiram melhor desempenho quando as novas gerações se originaram do mesmo substrato. A alta flutuação de G. molesta nos pomares 'Gala' não se deve ao estado nutricional dos frutos.(AU)

Estabilização de ombro em um gato ­ Relato de caso / Shoulder estabilization in a cat ­ Case report

A estabilidade da articulação do ombro é garantida por ligamentos, cápsula articular, tendões e músculos, contudo traumas podem causar falência dos mecanismos estabilizadores, com consequente luxação ou instabilidade articular. Objetivou-se relatar o caso de instabilidade medial e lateral de ombro direito em felino sem raça definida, atendido com queixa de claudicação aguda de membro torácico secundária a trauma por confronto com outro animal. Inicialmente foi realizado tratamento clínico por meio de imobilização articular. Contudo, devido ao insucesso da técnica, procedeu-se para o tratamento cirúrgico de estabilização articular com prótese ligamentar sintética. No pós-operatório imediato, evidenciou-se ausência de crepitações e instabilidade articular. Após oito dias da cirurgia, o paciente apresentou retorno total às funções de apoio do membro e sem sinais de dor ou redução de movimentos. Concluiu-se que, embora de reduzida ocorrência, a instabilidade de origem traumática do ombro configura-se como um diferencial para claudicação aguda de membro torácico e que o tratamento cirúrgico pode ser necessário, mostrando-se eficiente na resolução de tais casos com o acesso e técnica de estabilização propostos.

The stability of the shoulder joint is granted by ligaments, joint capsule, tendons and muscles. However, traumatic injuries can cause failure of the stabilization mechanisms, which leads to articular luxation or instability. The aim of the paper is to report a case of medial and lateral right shoulder joint instability in a mixed-breed cat, presenting acute forelimb lameness after a fight trauma with another cat. Initially, it was recommended a conservative treatment through articular immobilization. However, the technique was unsuccessful, and the surgery treatment was performed, to stabilize the joint with synthetic ligament prosthetic. In the postoperative period, no crepitation or instability were identified. After eight days of surgery, the patient returned totally to the normal function of the forelimb, without movement restriction or pain. It was concluded that, although rare, the traumatic shoulder joint instability is a differential diagnosis for acute forelimb lameness and the surgical treatment can be necessary, showing a good result in the resolution of these injuries with the surgical approach and stabilization method proposed.

Hip dislocation in a calf - treatment with iliofemoral suture

Background: Coxofemoral dislocation is uncommon in large animals, due to anatomical particularities that provide greater stability to this joint. The most common causes of hip dislocation in large animals are related to hypocalcemia, mount trauma, sudden falls on hard surfaces or dystocia. Treatment can be performed by closed reduction, but the reported results are not satisfactory with complications. Several surgical techniques have already been described and successfully used in small animals in the treatment of hip dislocation. The present work aims to describe the technique and the result of the iliofemoral suture in the treatment of hip dislocation in a Girolando heifer. Case: A heifer was attended with a history of difficulty in getting up. According to the owner, the clinical manifestation was sudden, after remaining in a paddock with other animals of different age groups. The calf had reduced skin sensitivity on the croup, and it was impossible to remain in the quadrupedal position, often remaining in sternal recumbency with the left pelvic limb in extension. From the clinical examination, spinal cord injury was suspected and clinical treatment was instituted with dexamethasone, vitamins B1, B12 and dimethylsulfoxide. At the end of the clinical treatment, the animal did not show a favorable evolution, so radiographic examination of the coxofemoral region was performed, revealing dislocation of the left femoral head, indicating surgical correction. Xylazine was administered as pre-anesthetic medication, followed by anesthetic induction with midazolam associated with ketamine, followed by orotracheal intubation. Anesthetic maintenance was instituted with isoflurane and monitoring was performed with a multiparameter monitor. An epidural block was performed with bupivacaine and morphine. A craniolateral approach to the left hip joint was performed. After the dislocation was reduced, sutures were used to better stabilize the joint in question. Following the evolution of the surgical procedure, it was possible to confirm that the femoral head remained in place. After 15 days, the skin stitches were removed and the animal was discharged from the hospital and returned to its original property. The calf was asked to remain in the stall for at least 60 days, gradually releasing it into larger spaces and only after 120 days could it remain in the paddock with other animals. During three months, the tutor was consulted about the evolution of the condition, reporting that the animal was clinically well, being able to get up and walk without difficulty and with a mild degree of lameness, thus suggesting the success of the surgical procedure. Discussion: There are few studies of successful surgical treatments of hip dislocation in large animals, and that number is even smaller when considering cattle alone. It is believed that this is due to difficulties related to the surgical technique and to postoperative handling, given the animal's weight. The iliofemoral suture technique performed on the animal in the present study is commonly employed in small animals, and excellent results have been observed. However, reports on the use of this technique in large animals have not been found. The iliofemoral suture technique has advantages over other reported surgical techniques in cattle. When compared to the femoral head and neck resection, the iliofemoral suture has several advantages, as it allows preservation of the joint and achievement of superior biomechanical results. When compared to the technique of reinforcement of the joint capsule with synthetic material, also reported in cattle, the iliofemoral suture appears to be faster, simpler and more economic, and provides similar stability. We conclude that the iliofemoral suture proved to be a satisfactory alternative for the treatment of hip dislocations in young cattle.

Immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Carcharodini): biology, morphology and behavior

ABSTRACT The biology, morphology and behavior of the immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) are herein described from specimens collected in an anthropized area of Caatinga biome. The larva of N. macarius passes through six larval instars with the development time from egg to adult lasted between 31 and 35 days. Except for the first instar larva, which is easily recognized by the presence of evident primary setae on the head, there are few distinctive morphological characters among the larvae of different instars. The head capsule width proved to be the most effective character to differentiate them. Two different types of shelters are built by larvae: center-cut shelters (type 3) built by larvae from the first to the third instars and two-cut shelters (type 5) built by larvae from the fourth to the sixth instars. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) is recorded as larval host plant of N. macarius for the first time. A Eulophidae wasp was found as parasitoid of the earlier larval instars of N. macarius, this being the second record of the family as parasitoid in the genus Nisoniades.

RESUMO A biologia, morfologia e comportamento dos estágios imaturos de Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) são aqui descritos a partir de espécimes coletados em uma área antropizada do bioma Caatinga. A larva de N. macarius passa por seis ínstares larvais com tempo de desenvolvimento variando entre 31 e 35 dias. Exceto o primeiro, que é facilmente reconhecido pela presença de cerdas primárias evidentes na cabeça, há pouca variação morfológica entre os instares larvais. A medida da cápsula cefálica mostrou-se mais eficaz na diferenciação dos ínstares. Dois tipos de abrigo são construídos pelas larvas: abrigo de corte central (tipo 3) construído pelas larvas de primeiro a terceiro ínstares e abrigo de dois cortes (tipo 5) pelas larvas de quarto a sexto ínstares. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) é registrada como planta hospedeira da larva de N. macarius pela primeira vez. Uma vespa Eulophidae foi encontrada como parasitoide dos primeiros ínstares larvais de N. macarius, sendo este o segundo registro da família como parasitoide no gênero Nisoniades.

Immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Carcharodini): biology, morphology and behavior / Estágios imaturos de Nisoniades macarius (Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Carcharodini): biologia, morfologia e comportamento

The biology, morphology and behavior of the immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) ​​are herein described from specimens collected in an anthropized area of Caatinga biome. The larva of N. macarius passes through six larval instars with the development time from egg to adult lasted between 31 and 35 days. Except for the first instar larva, which is easily recognized by the presence of evident primary setae on the head, there are few distinctive morphological characters among the larvae of different instars. The head capsule width proved to be the most effective character to differentiate them. Two different types of shelters are built by larvae: center-cut shelters (type 3) built by larvae from the first to the third instars and two-cut shelters (type 5) built by larvae from the fourth to the sixth instars. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) is recorded as larval host plant of N. macarius for the first time. A Eulophidae wasp was found as parasitoid of the earlier larval instars of N. macarius, this being the second record of the family as parasitoid in the genus Nisoniades.(AU)

A biologia, morfologia e comportamento dos estágios imaturos de Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) são aqui descritos a partir de espécimes coletados em uma área antropizada do bioma Caatinga. A larva de N. macarius passa por seis ínstares larvais com tempo de desenvolvimento variando entre 31 e 35 dias. Exceto o primeiro, que é facilmente reconhecido pela presença de cerdas primárias evidentes na cabeça, há pouca variação morfológica entre os instares larvais. A medida da cápsula cefálica mostrou-se mais eficaz na diferenciação dos ínstares. Dois tipos de abrigo são construídos pelas larvas: abrigo de corte central (tipo 3) construído pelas larvas de primeiro a terceiro ínstares e abrigo de dois cortes (tipo 5) pelas larvas de quarto a sexto ínstares. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) é registrada como planta hospedeira da larva de N. macarius pela primeira vez. Uma vespa Eulophidae foi encontrada como parasitoide dos primeiros ínstares larvais de N. macarius, sendo este o segundo registro da família como parasitoide no gênero Nisoniades.(AU)

Immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Carcharodini): biology, morphology and behavior / Estágios imaturos de Nisoniades macarius (Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Carcharodini): biologia, morfologia e comportamento

The biology, morphology and behavior of the immature stages of Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) ​​are herein described from specimens collected in an anthropized area of Caatinga biome. The larva of N. macarius passes through six larval instars with the development time from egg to adult lasted between 31 and 35 days. Except for the first instar larva, which is easily recognized by the presence of evident primary setae on the head, there are few distinctive morphological characters among the larvae of different instars. The head capsule width proved to be the most effective character to differentiate them. Two different types of shelters are built by larvae: center-cut shelters (type 3) built by larvae from the first to the third instars and two-cut shelters (type 5) built by larvae from the fourth to the sixth instars. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) is recorded as larval host plant of N. macarius for the first time. A Eulophidae wasp was found as parasitoid of the earlier larval instars of N. macarius, this being the second record of the family as parasitoid in the genus Nisoniades.

A biologia, morfologia e comportamento dos estágios imaturos de Nisoniades macarius (Herrich-Schäffer, 1870) são aqui descritos a partir de espécimes coletados em uma área antropizada do bioma Caatinga. A larva de N. macarius passa por seis ínstares larvais com tempo de desenvolvimento variando entre 31 e 35 dias. Exceto o primeiro, que é facilmente reconhecido pela presença de cerdas primárias evidentes na cabeça, há pouca variação morfológica entre os instares larvais. A medida da cápsula cefálica mostrou-se mais eficaz na diferenciação dos ínstares. Dois tipos de abrigo são construídos pelas larvas: abrigo de corte central (tipo 3) construído pelas larvas de primeiro a terceiro ínstares e abrigo de dois cortes (tipo 5) pelas larvas de quarto a sexto ínstares. Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. & Schult. (Convolvulaceae) é registrada como planta hospedeira da larva de N. macarius pela primeira vez. Uma vespa Eulophidae foi encontrada como parasitoide dos primeiros ínstares larvais de N. macarius, sendo este o segundo registro da família como parasitoide no gênero Nisoniades.

Elasticity modulus and damping ratio of macaw palm rachillas / Módulo de elasticidade e razão de amortecimento das ráquilas da macaúba

The macaw palm has been identified as a prime feed stock for biodiesel industries in the near future coming decades. However, there are no machines for harvesting and detaching fruits in the biofuel industry; hence, the study of the dynamic behavior of the fruit-rachilla system would aid in the development of such machines. Thus, this study seeks to determine the modulus of elasticity and the damping ratio of four different plant accessions obtained from the Active Germplasm Bank of the Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV). Tensile testing was conducted to determine the modulus of elasticity. From the graphical results of tension versus specific strain, it was possible to determine the modulus of elasticity by using the tangent method. To determine the damping ratio, the logarithmic decrement method was performed using vibration testing. Vibration test consisted of a generated impulse of 100% of the amplitude of acceleration that was used to excite the system. The acquisition of the generated information was performed by a piezoelectric accelerometer. The average modulus of elasticity ranged from 194 to 293.3MPa, and the average damping ratios ranged from 0.04 to 0.08. Thus, the macaw fruit-rachilla was an under-damped system.

A macaúba tem sido apontada como uma das principais matérias-primas para a indústria de biodiesel nas próximas décadas. No entanto, não existem máquinas para colheita ou destacamento dos frutos na usina e o estudo do comportamento dinâmico do sistema fruto-ráquila nortearia o desenvolvimento dessas máquinas. Dessa forma, objetivou-se determinar o módulo de elasticidade e a razão de amortecimento de quatro acessos provindos do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da UFV. Foi realizado teste de tração para determinar o módulo de elasticidade. A partir dos resultados obtidos na forma gráfica, tensão versus deformação específica, foi determinado o módulo de elasticidade pelo método da tangente. Para determinar a razão de amortecimento, foi empregado o método do decremento logarítmico, realizado por meio de teste de vibração. O teste de vibração constituiu-se de um impulso para excitar o sistema. A aquisição das informações geradas foi realizada por meio de acelerômetro piezelétrico. O módulo de elasticidade médio ficou entre 194 e 293,3MPa e as razões de amortecimento médias ficaram entre 0,04 e 0,08. Concluiu-se que o sistema fruto-ráquila da macaúba é subamortecido.

Elasticity modulus and damping ratio of macaw palm rachillas / Módulo de elasticidade e razão de amortecimento das ráquilas da macaúba

The macaw palm has been identified as a prime feed stock for biodiesel industries in the near future coming decades. However, there are no machines for harvesting and detaching fruits in the biofuel industry; hence, the study of the dynamic behavior of the fruit-rachilla system would aid in the development of such machines. Thus, this study seeks to determine the modulus of elasticity and the damping ratio of four different plant accessions obtained from the Active Germplasm Bank of the Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV). Tensile testing was conducted to determine the modulus of elasticity. From the graphical results of tension versus specific strain, it was possible to determine the modulus of elasticity by using the tangent method. To determine the damping ratio, the logarithmic decrement method was performed using vibration testing. Vibration test consisted of a generated impulse of 100% of the amplitude of acceleration that was used to excite the system. The acquisition of the generated information was performed by a piezoelectric accelerometer. The average modulus of elasticity ranged from 194 to 293.3MPa, and the average damping ratios ranged from 0.04 to 0.08. Thus, the macaw fruit-rachilla was an under-damped system. (AU)

A macaúba tem sido apontada como uma das principais matérias-primas para a indústria de biodiesel nas próximas décadas. No entanto, não existem máquinas para colheita ou destacamento dos frutos na usina e o estudo do comportamento dinâmico do sistema fruto-ráquila nortearia o desenvolvimento dessas máquinas. Dessa forma, objetivou-se determinar o módulo de elasticidade e a razão de amortecimento de quatro acessos provindos do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da UFV. Foi realizado teste de tração para determinar o módulo de elasticidade. A partir dos resultados obtidos na forma gráfica, tensão versus deformação específica, foi determinado o módulo de elasticidade pelo método da tangente. Para determinar a razão de amortecimento, foi empregado o método do decremento logarítmico, realizado por meio de teste de vibração. O teste de vibração constituiu-se de um impulso para excitar o sistema. A aquisição das informações geradas foi realizada por meio de acelerômetro piezelétrico. O módulo de elasticidade médio ficou entre 194 e 293,3MPa e as razões de amortecimento médias ficaram entre 0,04 e 0,08. Concluiu-se que o sistema fruto-ráquila da macaúba é subamortecido. (AU)

Pinealectomia em ratas Wistar (Rattus norvegicus albinus): descrição de um novo método cirúrgico / Pinealectomy in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus): Description of a new surgical method

A necessidade de manejo adequado antes, durante e após a implementação de procedimentos em animais de laboratório é essencial para proporcionar bem-estar. Portanto, no presente trabalho, objetivou-se padronizar uma nova técnica de pinealectomia em ratas Wistar. Trinta fêmeas nulíparas aos 90 dias de idade foram submetidas à anestesia dissociativa. Após a tricotomia e a assepsia, realizou-se uma incisão na linha média dorsal da cabeça. Com um micromotor e uma broca de aço PM 03, realizou-se a craniotomia; a glândula pineal foi removida por intermédio de um fórceps cápsula arruga. Em seguida, o fragmento ósseo foi recolocado em seu lugar de origem, e a pele aproximada por pontos simples. Finalizado o procedimento cirúrgico, foi realizada antibioticoterapia e soroterapia parenteral. O acompanhamento diário dos animais não evidenciou nenhum comprometimento da ferida operatória com padrão de cicatrização por primeira intenção. Os animais apresentaram normalidade de atos fisiológicos, como alimentação, defecação e micção, assim como socialização com o grupo. Técnicas cirúrgicas vêm sendo realizadas com o desenvolvimento das pesquisas envolvendo a glândula pineal. A técnica ideal para pinealectomia consiste no pouco sangramento, na curta duração da cirurgia e na nitidez da glândula pineal, diminuindo a probabilidade de acidentes neurológicos. Considerando-se os resultados obtidos ao longo do desenvolvimento experimental e clínico, o aprimoramento da técnica cirúrgica utilizando a broca PM03 associada ao fórceps cápsula arruga foi exímio na pesquisa científica da pinealectomia de ratas Wistar em virtude da rapidez e praticidade alcançadas. Tem-se a perspectiva de que este artigo sirva de subsídio para o aprimoramento e a otimização do modelo experimental para posteriores estudos acerca de pesquisas com a glândula pineal e, assim, maior compreensão de sua complexidade sobre todos os sistemas do organismo.(AU)

The need for adequate management before, during and after procedures involving laboratory animals is essential to their wellbeing. Thus, the aim of the present study was to standardize a novel method of pinealectomy in Wistar rats. Thirty nullipara females aged 90 days were submitted to dissociative anesthesia. Following fur removal and asepsis, an incision was performed along the dorsal line of the head. Craniotomy was performed with a mini-drill and PM 03 stainless steel drill bit. The pineal gland was removed using a serrated capsule forceps. The bone fragment was replaced and the skin was sutured with simple stitches. The surgical procedure was finalized with antibiotic therapy parenteral serotherapy. Daily follow up was performed and no animal demonstrated any compromised surgical wound with first intention wound healing. The animals exhibited normal physiological acts (feeding, defecation, urination and group socialization). Surgical techniques were performed with the development of research involving the pineal gland. The ideal pinealectomy method consists of little bleeding, a short surgery and a clear view of the pineal gland, thereby diminishing the probability of neurological accidents. Considering the results obtained through the experimental and clinical development, the perfection of the surgical technique involving the PM03 drill bit and serrated capsule forceps was successful in scientific research involving pinealectomy of Wistar rats in terms of quickness and practicality. This article can assist in the optimization of experimental models for subsequent studies involving the pineal gland and the understanding of its complexity over all organism systems.(AU)

Estimation of dry mass of caddisflies Phylloicus elektoros (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) in a Central Amazon stream

Aquatic invertebrate biomass estimations are often important in ecological and biological studies. Biomass may be determined by regression models between body and case dimensions and dry mass. Using linear, exponential and power regressions we analyzed the relationship between body and case dimensions and the biomass of Phylloicus elektoros Prather, 2003. Furthermore, we used cross-validation to evaluate the predictions of our models and of the models developed for Phylloicus sp. from southeastern Brazil. We measured four body dimensions (head capsule width, interocular distance, body and pronotum length) of 152 larvae and two case dimensions (width and length) of 45 cases. Case width provided better fit with biomass than case length in all model classes. Body length provided the best biomass prediction. Biomass predictions using models proposed in the literature were 75% lower than the observed values. The power model provided the best fit between body and case dimensions with biomass. However, exponential models also provided good biomass estimates. We observed a close fit between body and case dimensions and biomass, but the predictive power of the models was low (~40%). The predictive power of models proposed in the literature was much worse than those built from local data and thus we do not recommend their use to predict the biomass of organisms from different regions.

Estimation of dry mass of caddisflies Phylloicus elektoros (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) in a Central Amazon stream

Aquatic invertebrate biomass estimations are often important in ecological and biological studies. Biomass may be determined by regression models between body and case dimensions and dry mass. Using linear, exponential and power regressions we analyzed the relationship between body and case dimensions and the biomass of Phylloicus elektoros Prather, 2003. Furthermore, we used cross-validation to evaluate the predictions of our models and of the models developed for Phylloicus sp. from southeastern Brazil. We measured four body dimensions (head capsule width, interocular distance, body and pronotum length) of 152 larvae and two case dimensions (width and length) of 45 cases. Case width provided better fit with biomass than case length in all model classes. Body length provided the best biomass prediction. Biomass predictions using models proposed in the literature were 75% lower than the observed values. The power model provided the best fit between body and case dimensions with biomass. However, exponential models also provided good biomass estimates. We observed a close fit between body and case dimensions and biomass, but the predictive power of the models was low (~40%). The predictive power of models proposed in the literature was much worse than those built from local data and thus we do not recommend their use to predict the biomass of organisms from different regions.(AU)

Genotoxic effect of Phenanthrene on Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae)

Phenanthrene, a Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon, remains adsorbed to sedimentary particles in aquatic environments. It affects mainly benthic organisms, and is considered potentially genotoxic. In ecotoxicology, species of Chironomus Meigen, 1803 are widely known as bioindicators of the effects of chemicals on aquatic organisms. This study investigates the effects of phenanthrene on the size of the head capsule of Chironomus sancticaroli Strixino & Strixino, 1981 larvae after chronic (eight days) exposure, and DNA damage after acute (96 hours) and chronic exposure (eight days), under laboratory conditions. DNA damage, evaluated using the alkaline comet assay, detected effects for both exposure periods, indicating that phenanthrene is toxic for C. sancticaroli. For the acute exposure, we analyzed five concentrations of phenanthrene, between 0.16 mg.l-1 and 1.60 mg.l-1, detecting significant differences (Kruskall-Wallis test with p 0.05) in the degree of DNA damage in all groups. These effects were not dose-dependent. For the chronic exposure, two concentrations (0.16 mg.l-1, 0.83 mg.l-1) were analyzed, and DNA damage was observed in both. Again, the effects were not dose-dependent. This indicates that phenanthrene is genotoxic to larvae of C. sancticaroli even at low concentrations. The size of the head capsule was evaluated after chronic exposure to concentrations of 0.16 mg.l-1 and 0.83 mg.l-1. Significant differences (ANOVA test with p 0.05) were detected in the two concentrations, and a reduction in the size of the larval head capsule was observed. This suggests that phenanthrene causes delay in larval development. These results indicate that phenanthrene affects the development of and causes DNA damage in C. sancticaroli larvae. Therefore, we suggest that C. sancticaroli can be used as a biological indicator for environmental contamination with phenanthrene.(AU)

Genotoxic effect of Phenanthrene on Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae)

Phenanthrene, a Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon, remains adsorbed to sedimentary particles in aquatic environments. It affects mainly benthic organisms, and is considered potentially genotoxic. In ecotoxicology, species of Chironomus Meigen, 1803 are widely known as bioindicators of the effects of chemicals on aquatic organisms. This study investigates the effects of phenanthrene on the size of the head capsule of Chironomus sancticaroli Strixino & Strixino, 1981 larvae after chronic (eight days) exposure, and DNA damage after acute (96 hours) and chronic exposure (eight days), under laboratory conditions. DNA damage, evaluated using the alkaline comet assay, detected effects for both exposure periods, indicating that phenanthrene is toxic for C. sancticaroli. For the acute exposure, we analyzed five concentrations of phenanthrene, between 0.16 mg.l-1 and 1.60 mg.l-1, detecting significant differences (Kruskall-Wallis test with p 0.05) in the degree of DNA damage in all groups. These effects were not dose-dependent. For the chronic exposure, two concentrations (0.16 mg.l-1, 0.83 mg.l-1) were analyzed, and DNA damage was observed in both. Again, the effects were not dose-dependent. This indicates that phenanthrene is genotoxic to larvae of C. sancticaroli even at low concentrations. The size of the head capsule was evaluated after chronic exposure to concentrations of 0.16 mg.l-1 and 0.83 mg.l-1. Significant differences (ANOVA test with p 0.05) were detected in the two concentrations, and a reduction in the size of the larval head capsule was observed. This suggests that phenanthrene causes delay in larval development. These results indicate that phenanthrene affects the development of and causes DNA damage in C. sancticaroli larvae. Therefore, we suggest that C. sancticaroli can be used as a biological indicator for environmental contamination with phenanthrene.

Lesões granulomatosas encontradas em bovinos abatidos para consumo / Granulomatous lesions found in cattle slaughtered for meat production

Com o objetivo auxiliar profissionais médico-veterinários no reconhecimento das lesões de bovinos encontradas na linha de inspeção de carnes em matadouros frigoríficos, três condições granulomatosas de bovinos foram pesquisadas e suas semelhanças e diferenças avaliadas. Essas três condições granulomatosas foram actinobacilose (causada por Actinobacillus lignieresii), actinomicose (causada por Actinomyces bovis) e mastite estafilocócica (causada por Staphylococcus aureus). Em 505 lesões encontradas em bovinos abatidos para consumo humano, 40 eram uma dessas três lesões granulomatosas: 24 eram actinobacilose, 10 eram actinomicose e seis eram mastite estafilocócica. De um modo geral, os aspectos macro e microscópicos dessas três lesões eram bastante semelhantes, mas suas localizações ajudavam a presumir sua etiologia. A. lignieresii afetou tecidos moles, principalmente língua e linfonodos da cabeça; A. bovis afetou o tecido ósseo, principalmente o da mandíbula; e S. aureus teve a glândula mamária como o tecido alvo. Histologicamente, os granulomas resultantes da infecção por qualquer um desses três agentes continham uma estrutura amorfa, eosinofílica, com clavas irradiadas, localizada centralmente; essa estrutura era rodeada por neutrófilos íntegros e degenerados, que, por sua vez, eram cercados por um manto de macrófagos epitelioides e ocasionais células gigantes multinucleadas. Esses mantos de macrófagos eram irregularmente infiltrados por linfócitos e plasmócitos que tendiam a se acumular na periferia da lesão, que era cercada por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo. Dependendo da aplicação do método de coloração adequado, o agente etiológico podia ser visto em cada um dos três tipos de lesão granulomatosa. No caso da mastite estafilocócica, cocos intralesionais foram observados tanto nas colorações por HE como nas de Gram, nessa última como cocos gram-positivos. O agente da actinobacilose (bacilos gram-negativos) e da actinomicose (bacilos gram-positivos) pôde ser observado somente nas colorações de Gram. Os diagnósticos diferenciais para essas três condições são discutidos.(AU)

In order to help professionals of veterinary medicine in recognizing bovine lesions found during meat inspection at slaughterhouses, three granulomatous conditions of cattle were researched and their morphological similarities and differences were assessed. These three granulomatous conditions were actinobacillosis (caused by Actinobacillus lignieresii), actinomycosis (caused by Actinomyces bovis) and staphylococcal mastitis (caused by Staphylococcus aureus). Out of 505 lesions found in cattle slaughtered for human consumption, 40 were one of the three granulomatous conditions: 24 were actinobacillosis, 10 were actinomycosis and six were staphylococcal mastitis. Overall the gross and histological features of these three diseases are quite similar but their location helps give away the etiology. A. lignieresii affected soft tissues, mainly those of tongue and lymph nodes of the head region; A. bovis affected bone tissue mainly that of the mandible; and S. aureus main targeted tissue was the mammary gland. Histologically the granuloma resulting from the infection with either one of these three causal agents contained centrally located amorphous, eosinophilic, club like structures surrounded by viable and dead neutrophils. These were surrounded by a mantle of epithelioid macrophages and occasional multinucleated giant cells. These macrophage mantles were irregularly infiltrate by lymphocytes and plasma cells which tended to accumulate to the periphery of the lesion which, in turn, was fenced by a fibrous connective capsule. Given the employment of adequate techniques the causative the agent could be seen within or surrounding the clublike structures in each the three types of granulomatous lesions. In the case of staphylococcal mastitis, intralesional cocci were observed both in HE and Gram stained preparations, in the latter as gram-positive cocci. The agent in actinobacillosis (gram-negative bacilli) and actinomycosis (gram-positive bacilli) could only be observed in Gram stained preparations. The differential diagnosis for these lesions is included in the discussion of this paper.(AU)

Determination of larval instars in Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae) using novel head capsule structures

Determining the age composition of a population is important when conducting ecological, taxonomic and environmental assessments. Morphometric measurements of the head capsule, especially the length and width, are widely used in the identification of insect instars, but alternative ways for determining the age of insects can expand the options for the analysis of field and laboratory populations. This study evaluated the morphometry of the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates to discriminate among the four larval instars of Chironomus sancticaroli Strixino & Strixino, 1981. The larvae were reared in the laboratory under constant temperature (25°C) and photoperiod of 12/12 hours for 19 days, with a supply of food. Fifteen larvae were removed randomly every day, cleared in KOH, and slide-mounted, and had the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates measured. The dimensions of the four structures studied allowed us to statistically distinguish each of the four larval instars. The data fit an exponential equation according to the Brooks-Dyar rule, which allows an estimate of the larval instar of specimens collected in the field, even when development takes place under different conditions. The duration of each instar was also obtained from our data, and showed an overlap of instars during development.

Determination of larval instars in Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae) using novel head capsule structures

Determining the age composition of a population is important when conducting ecological, taxonomic and environmental assessments. Morphometric measurements of the head capsule, especially the length and width, are widely used in the identification of insect instars, but alternative ways for determining the age of insects can expand the options for the analysis of field and laboratory populations. This study evaluated the morphometry of the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates to discriminate among the four larval instars of Chironomus sancticaroli Strixino & Strixino, 1981. The larvae were reared in the laboratory under constant temperature (25°C) and photoperiod of 12/12 hours for 19 days, with a supply of food. Fifteen larvae were removed randomly every day, cleared in KOH, and slide-mounted, and had the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates measured. The dimensions of the four structures studied allowed us to statistically distinguish each of the four larval instars. The data fit an exponential equation according to the Brooks-Dyar rule, which allows an estimate of the larval instar of specimens collected in the field, even when development takes place under different conditions. The duration of each instar was also obtained from our data, and showed an overlap of instars during development.

Determination of larval instars in Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae) using novel head capsule structures

Determining the age composition of a population is important when conducting ecological, taxonomic and environmental assessments. Morphometric measurements of the head capsule, especially the length and width, are widely used in the identification of insect instars, but alternative ways for determining the age of insects can expand the options for the analysis of field and laboratory populations. This study evaluated the morphometry of the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates to discriminate among the four larval instars of Chironomus sancticaroli Strixino & Strixino, 1981. The larvae were reared in the laboratory under constant temperature (25°C) and photoperiod of 12/12 hours for 19 days, with a supply of food. Fifteen larvae were removed randomly every day, cleared in KOH, and slide-mounted, and had the antennae, mandibles, mentum and ventromental plates measured. The dimensions of the four structures studied allowed us to statistically distinguish each of the four larval instars. The data fit an exponential equation according to the Brooks-Dyar rule, which allows an estimate of the larval instar of specimens collected in the field, even when development takes place under different conditions. The duration of each instar was also obtained from our data, and showed an overlap of instars during development.(AU)

Caracterização fenotípica e genotípica de Streptococcus equi subespécie equi isolados de equinos doentes e portadores no Rio Grande do Sul

Streptococcus equi subespécie equi (S. equi) é o agente causador da adenite equina, uma das doenças infecciosas mais frequentemente diagnosticadas em todo o mundo. Após a doença aguda de curta duração, caracterizada pelo enfartamento dos linfonodos da cabeça e pescoço, parte dos equinos permanece portador da bactéria por longos períodos, sendo este o ponto chave para a manutenção do agente e ocorrência da doença de forma contínua. Em vista disso, se torna importante entender o que desencadeia o estado de portador, o motivo de nem todos os animais conseguirem eliminar a bactéria após a melhora clínica. Esta dissertação descreve a caracterização fenotípica e genotípica de cepas de S. equi isoladas de equinos doentes (n=42) e portadores (n=18) no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Por meio da avaliação da coloração e aspecto das colônias, provas de fermentação de açúcares (ribose, lactose, trealose e sorbitol), visualização da cápsula, teste de suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos, avaliação da capacidade de formação de biofilme e detecção de genes que codificam fatores de virulência (hasA, hasB, hasC, eqbE, eqbG, seeH e seeI) foi possível evidenciar diferenças consideráveis entre os dois grupos de isolados. S. equi isolados de equinos portadores apresentaram colônias opacas e branco-acinzentadas (100%), cápsula em pequena quantidade (38,9%) ou ausente (61,1%), com capacidade de fermentar pelo menos dois dos açúcares testados (100%) e resistência em média a 3,6 (1-7) classes de antimicrobianos. Por outro lado, cepas isoladas de equinos doentes apresentaram predominantemente colônias mucóides e cor de mel (95,2%), com muita cápsula (92,8%), incapazes de fermentar qualquer um dos açúcares (92,8%) e resistentes em média a 2,1 (0-7) classes de antimicrobianos. Foi obsevada uma maior proporção de cepas multirresistentes no grupo de isolados de animais portadores (13/18 = 72,2%) em comparação ao grupo de isolados de animais doentes (5/42 = 11,9%). Capacidade de formar biofilme foi detectada em 94,4% dos isolados de animais doentes e 78,6% de portadores, não havendo diferença entre os grupos. Todos os isolados de equinos portadores apresentaram deleção do gene eqbE e 66,7% dos mesmos também em hasA e hasB. A perda desses loci gênicos por isolados de equinos portadores já havia sido reportada em outro estudo. Desta forma, nossos resultados complementam os da literatura internacional ao associar as características genotípicas dos isolados de animais portadores com suas características fenotípicas, e evidenciar diferenças com aquelas de isolados de equinos com manifestação clínica. Estudos mais aprofundados são necessários para elucidar quais outros eventos estão envolvidos na persistência de S. equi no hospedeiro após a cura clínica.

Streptococcus equi subspecies equi (S. equi) is the causative agent of srangles, one of the most frequently diagnosed infectious disease worldwide. After the short duration acute disease, characterized by abscess formation in the head and neck lymph nodes, some horses remain as S. equi carriers for long periods. Equine carriers are the key point for the bacteria maintenance and occurrence of the disease continuously. Therefore, it becomes important to understand what triggers the carrier state, why not all animals can eliminate the bacteria after clinical improvement. This dissertation describes the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of S. equi strains isolated from diseased horses (n = 42) and carriers (n = 18) in the Rio Grande do Sul state. Evaluating colonies color and appearance, sugars fermentation tests (ribose, lac-tose, trehalose and sorbitol), capsule visualization, antimicrobial susceptibility test, biofilm formation capacity and detection of virulence factors encoding genes (hasA, hasB, hasC, eqbE, eqbG, seeH and seeI) it was possible to show considerable differences between the two groups of isolates. S. equi isolated from equine carriers presented dry, opaque and white-gray colonies (100%), capsule in small quantity (38.9%) or absent (61.1%), capable of fermenting at least two sugars tested (100%) and resistance on average to 3.6 (1-7) antimicrobials classes. On the other hand, strains isolated from diseased horses had predominantly mucoid and honey color colonies (95.2%), with a large capsule (92.8%), unable to ferment any of the sugars (92.8%) and resistant in mean to 2.1 (0-7) antimicrobials classes. A higher proportion of multiresistant strains was observed in the isolates from carrier animals group (13/18 = 72.2%) compared to the group of isolates from diseased animals (5/42 = 11.9%). Biofilm formation capacity was detected in 94.4% of the isolates from diseased animals and 78.6% from carriers, with no difference between the groups. All the equine carriers isolates showed deletion of the eqbE gene and 66.7% of them also in hasA and hasB genes. The loss of these gene loci by isolates from carrier horses had already been reported in another study. Thus, our results complement those of the international literature by associating the genotypic characteristics of the isolates of animal carriers with their phenotypic characteristics, and evidencing differ-ences with those isolated from horses with clinical manifestation. Further studies are needed to elucidate which other events are associated to the persistence of S.equi in the host after clinical cure.

Resistence of the femoral head ligament in dogs / Resistência do ligamento da cabeça do osso femoral em cães

The growing number of pets, as well as the increase of their life expectancy and, in many cases, the wrong way to raise them have led to a concurrent increase of a variety of diseases, such as joint pathologies, which demand studies. The aim of this study was to determine the maximum strength of the dogs ligament of the femoral bone head  until its rupture, in order to establish correlations between charges carried (kg), displacement of the extension grip (mm), and variation of the time (s) by means of electronic instrumentation systems that provide measurement of forces and displacement control. We used 42 mongreel adult dogs with body mass from 4.5 to 26 kg. Initially, we performed biometry, and then the animals pelvis was isolated, removing adjacent structures, exposing coxal joint. The pieces were divided into two hemicoxals, the femur was fractured in the middle, and the joint capsule withdrawn to show the ligament of the the femoral bone head, which underwent destructive mechanical testing. From the animals studied, eight showed less bone strength than ligamentous resistance, generating fractured femoral head at least on one side. The dimensions and body mass of the individual interfered in the resistance of the ligament of the femoral bone head. In females, the ligament showed resistance of 22kg ± 8.55 on the right antimere, and 21.18kg ± 8.45kg on the left. In males i

Com o número crescente de animais de companhia nos lares, o aumento de sua longevidade e, em muitos casos, a forma errônea de criá-los, aumentam, concomitantemente, diversas afecções, como as patologias articulares, gerando a demanda de estudos voltados às mesmas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a capacidade máxima de resistência do ligamento da cabeça do osso femoral em cães até sua ruptura, estabelecendo correlações entre cargas exercidas (kg), deslocamento das garras de extensão (mm) e variação do tempo (s) por meio de instrumentação eletrônica que proporciona mensuração de forças e controle do deslocamento. Foram utilizados 42 cães adultos, sem raça definida, com massa corporal variando entre 4,5 e 26 kg, eutanasiados pelo Centro de Controle de Zoonoses de Petrolina (PE). Inicialmente, promoveu-se somatometria, isolou-se a pelve dos animais, rebatendo estruturas adjacentes, evidenciando a articulação coxal. As peças foram divididas em dois hemicoxais, o osso femoral, fraturado no terço médio e a cápsula articular, rebatida para visualizar o ligamento da cabeça do osso femoral, que foi submetida ao ensaio mecânico destrutivo. Dos animais estudados, 08 apresentaram resistência óssea menor que a resistência ligamentosa, gerando fratura da cabeça do osso femoral em pelo menos um antímero. As dimensões e massa corpórea do indivíduo interferiram na resistência do ligamen

Morfologia do funículo espermático em caprinos da raça Bhuj Brasileira / Morphology of the spermatic cord in Brazilian Bhuj goats

Estudamos em 40 caprinos adultos da raça Bhuj Brasileira os aspectos histológicos do funículo espermático. Observamos que este se acha envolvido por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo fibroelástico denso, de espessura variável, pregueada em alguns pontos, e revestida por mesotélio que circunda todo o conjunto vásculo-nervoso, e projeta-se para formar o mesoducto deferente. Em posição subcapsular, verifica-se uma camada de tecido conjuntivo fibroelástico frouxo, de espessura variável, que circunda parcialmente o funículo espermático, isolando nas regiões deferencial e abdeferencial, conjuntos vásculo-nervosos, responsáveis pela nutrição do epidídimo. Na região do mesoducto deferente, o tecido subcapsular acompanhado de tecido adiposo constitui a camada interna deste meso, formando a sua adventícia e abrigando vasos e nervos deferenciais. Na região abdeferencial, pequenos acúmulos de tecido adiposo são vistos de permeio aos vasos e nervos desta região. Entre as artérias, veias e nervos testiculares, bem como entre os vasos das regiões deferencial e abdeferencial, observa-se o tecido conjuntivo denso, intervascular, rico em fibras elásticas, que constitui as adventícias contínuas destes vasos. O arranjo vascular mostra que o segmento da artéria testicular, contido no funículo espermático, apresenta trajeto sinuoso. Estando envolvido pelo plexo venoso pampiniforme, formado por veias testiculares desprovidas de válvulas de calibres variados, apresentando amplas comunicações entre si. As veias responsáveis pela drenagem do epidídimo e ducto deferente estão localizadas em posição subcapsular deferencial e abdeferencial e mostram-se providas de válvulas. O trato das artérias testiculares no funículo espermático apresenta como média e desvio padrão 134,6±38,1cm à direita, e 137,0±33,9cm à esquerda, não existindo diferenças estatisticamente significantes ao nível de 5 por cento, quando comparamos a média do segmento da artéria testicular contida no funículo espermático direito em relação ao esquerdo.(AU)

Histological aspects of the spermatic cord were studied in 40 Brazilian Bhuj goats. It was seen that the spermatic cord is involved by a thin capsule of compact connective tissue recovered by mesothelium which forms an expansion, the mesodeferens. Under this capsule is a subcapsular layer of variable thickness, formed by loose elastic fiber connective tissue that mixes with deep layer of the mesodeferens and with the adventitia of ductus deferens. Between the testicular artery and testicular veins exists an intervascular compact elastic fiber connective tissue in continuity with the adventitia of spermatic cord vessels. In the abdeferential region of the spermatic cord exists a neurovascular contingent, the vessels of which generally have inferior calibers and similar constitution and arrangement as the testicular artery and veins; the described contingent is related to nutrition of the initial portion of ductus deferens and part of the epididymis head and body. The vascular arrangement shows that the segment of the testicular artery in the spermatic cord has a sinuous disposition and is totally involved by the venous plexus formed by testicular vein valves with irregular outlines, diverse calibers and large connections. The length of the intra spermatic cord segment of the testicular artery has a medium and standard deviation of 134.6±38.1cm on the right and 137±33.9cm on the left. There were no statistical differences between the right and left medium ranges.(AU)