Differentially methylated regions identified in bovine embryos are not observed in adulthood

The establishment of epigenetic marks during the reprogramming window is susceptible to environmental influences, and stimuli during this critical stage can cause altered DNA methylation in offspring. In a previous study, we found that low levels of sulphur and cobalt (low S/Co) in the diet offered to oocyte donors altered the DNA methylome of bovine embryos. However, due to the extensive epigenetic reprogramming that occurs during embryogenesis, we hypothesized that the different methylation regions (DMRs) identified in the blastocysts may not maintain in adulthood. Here, we aimed to characterize DMRs previously identified in embryos, in the blood and sperm of adult progenies of two groups of heifers (low S/Co and control). We used six bulls and characterized the DNA methylation levels of KDM2A, KDM5A, KMT2D, and DOT1L genes. Our results showed that all DMRs analysed in both groups and tissues were hypermethylated unlike that noticed in the embryonic methylome profiles. These results suggest that embryo DMRs were reprogrammed during the final stages of de novo methylation during embryogenesis or later in development. Therefore, due to the highly dynamic epigenetic state during early embryonic development, we suggest that is essential to validate the DMRs found in embryos in adult individuals.(AU)

The application of ammonium sulphate and amino acid on cotton: effects on can improve growth, yield, quality and nitrogen absorption

Abstract A field study was carried out to determine the influence of foliage applied plant growth promoter and retardant in improving soil applied sulphur fertilizer use efficiency in cotton during two consecutive summers 2014 and 2015. Experimental trial comprised of three different sources of sulphur (ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate and elemental sulphur) and foliar spray of plant growth promoter and growth retardant including tap water was taken as control. Among treatments soil applied ammonium sulphate with foliage applied amino acid produced maximum plant height, sympodial branches, pods per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber yield, biological yield, protein contents, oil contents and leaf nitrogen uptake as compared to the other treatments. Whereas, soil applied potassium sulphate with foliar spray of mepiquat chloride on cotton significantly improved the boll weight and leaf potassium uptake. We conclude that soil applied ammonium sulphate and foliage spray of amino acid was more effective in improving the productivity and quality attributes of cotton.

Resumo Foi realizado um estudo de campo para determinar a influência do promotor de crescimento das plantas e retardador da folhagem em algodão, para melhora da eficiência do uso de fertilizantes à base de enxofre aplicados no solo durante dois verões consecutivos (2014 e 2015). O ensaio experimental foi composto de três fontes diferentes de enxofre (sulfato de amônio, sulfato de potássio e enxofre elementar) e pulverização foliar do promotor de crescimento de plantas e retardador de crescimento, incluindo água da torneira que foi tomada como controle. Entre os tratamentos, o sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo com aminoácido aplicado na folhagem produziu o máximo na altura da planta, ramos simodiais, capulhos por planta, rendimento de algodão em caroço, rendimento de fibra, rendimento biológico, conteúdo de proteínas, conteúdo de óleo e absorção de nitrogênio nas folhas quando comparado a outros tratamentos. Enquanto o solo fertilizado com sulfato de potássio e aplicação foliar de cloreto de mepiquat no algodão melhorou, significativamente, o peso do capulho e a absorção de potássio nas folhas. Sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo e a aplicação foliar de aminoácidos foram mais eficazes na melhora dos atributos de produtividade e qualidade do algodão.

The application of ammonium sulphate and amino acid on cotton: effects on can improve growth, yield, quality and nitrogen absorption / Aplicação de sulfato de amônio e aminoácido no algodão: efeitos sobre o crescimento, o rendimento, a qualidade e a absorção de nitrogênio

A field study was carried out to determine the influence of foliage applied plant growth promoter and retardant in improving soil applied sulphur fertilizer use efficiency in cotton during two consecutive summers 2014 and 2015. Experimental trial comprised of three different sources of sulphur (ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate and elemental sulphur) and foliar spray of plant growth promoter and growth retardant including tap water was taken as control. Among treatments soil applied ammonium sulphate with foliage applied amino acid produced maximum plant height, sympodial branches, pods per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber yield, biological yield, protein contents, oil contents and leaf nitrogen uptake as compared to the other treatments. Whereas, soil applied potassium sulphate with foliar spray of mepiquat chloride on cotton significantly improved the boll weight and leaf potassium uptake. We conclude that soil applied ammonium sulphate and foliage spray of amino acid was more effective in improving the productivity and quality attributes of cotton.

Foi realizado um estudo de campo para determinar a influência do promotor de crescimento das plantas e retardador da folhagem em algodão, para melhora da eficiência do uso de fertilizantes à base de enxofre aplicados no solo durante dois verões consecutivos (2014 e 2015). O ensaio experimental foi composto de três fontes diferentes de enxofre (sulfato de amônio, sulfato de potássio e enxofre elementar) e pulverização foliar do promotor de crescimento de plantas e retardador de crescimento, incluindo água da torneira que foi tomada como controle. Entre os tratamentos, o sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo com aminoácido aplicado na folhagem produziu o máximo na altura da planta, ramos simodiais, capulhos por planta, rendimento de algodão em caroço, rendimento de fibra, rendimento biológico, conteúdo de proteínas, conteúdo de óleo e absorção de nitrogênio nas folhas quando comparado a outros tratamentos. Enquanto o solo fertilizado com sulfato de potássio e aplicação foliar de cloreto de mepiquat no algodão melhorou, significativamente, o peso do capulho e a absorção de potássio nas folhas. Sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo e a aplicação foliar de aminoácidos foram mais eficazes na melhora dos atributos de produtividade e qualidade do algodão.

The application of ammonium sulphate and amino acid on cotton: effects on can improve growth, yield, quality and nitrogen absorption / Aplicação de sulfato de amônio e aminoácido no algodão: efeitos sobre o crescimento, o rendimento, a qualidade e a absorção de nitrogênio

A field study was carried out to determine the influence of foliage applied plant growth promoter and retardant in improving soil applied sulphur fertilizer use efficiency in cotton during two consecutive summers 2014 and 2015. Experimental trial comprised of three different sources of sulphur (ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate and elemental sulphur) and foliar spray of plant growth promoter and growth retardant including tap water was taken as control. Among treatments soil applied ammonium sulphate with foliage applied amino acid produced maximum plant height, sympodial branches, pods per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber yield, biological yield, protein contents, oil contents and leaf nitrogen uptake as compared to the other treatments. Whereas, soil applied potassium sulphate with foliar spray of mepiquat chloride on cotton significantly improved the boll weight and leaf potassium uptake. We conclude that soil applied ammonium sulphate and foliage spray of amino acid was more effective in improving the productivity and quality attributes of cotton.

Foi realizado um estudo de campo para determinar a influência do promotor de crescimento das plantas e retardador da folhagem em algodão, para melhora da eficiência do uso de fertilizantes à base de enxofre aplicados no solo durante dois verões consecutivos (2014 e 2015). O ensaio experimental foi composto de três fontes diferentes de enxofre (sulfato de amônio, sulfato de potássio e enxofre elementar) e pulverização foliar do promotor de crescimento de plantas e retardador de crescimento, incluindo água da torneira que foi tomada como controle. Entre os tratamentos, o sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo com aminoácido aplicado na folhagem produziu o máximo na altura da planta, ramos simodiais, capulhos por planta, rendimento de algodão em caroço, rendimento de fibra, rendimento biológico, conteúdo de proteínas, conteúdo de óleo e absorção de nitrogênio nas folhas quando comparado a outros tratamentos. Enquanto o solo fertilizado com sulfato de potássio e aplicação foliar de cloreto de mepiquat no algodão melhorou, significativamente, o peso do capulho e a absorção de potássio nas folhas. Sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo e a aplicação foliar de aminoácidos foram mais eficazes na melhora dos atributos de produtividade e qualidade do algodão.

The application of ammonium sulphate and amino acid on cotton: effects on can improve growth, yield, quality and nitrogen absorption / Aplicação de sulfato de amônio e aminoácido no algodão: efeitos sobre o crescimento, o rendimento, a qualidade e a absorção de nitrogênio

A field study was carried out to determine the influence of foliage applied plant growth promoter and retardant in improving soil applied sulphur fertilizer use efficiency in cotton during two consecutive summers 2014 and 2015. Experimental trial comprised of three different sources of sulphur (ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate and elemental sulphur) and foliar spray of plant growth promoter and growth retardant including tap water was taken as control. Among treatments soil applied ammonium sulphate with foliage applied amino acid produced maximum plant height, sympodial branches, pods per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber yield, biological yield, protein contents, oil contents and leaf nitrogen uptake as compared to the other treatments. Whereas, soil applied potassium sulphate with foliar spray of mepiquat chloride on cotton significantly improved the boll weight and leaf potassium uptake. We conclude that soil applied ammonium sulphate and foliage spray of amino acid was more effective in improving the productivity and quality attributes of cotton.(AU)

Foi realizado um estudo de campo para determinar a influência do promotor de crescimento das plantas e retardador da folhagem em algodão, para melhora da eficiência do uso de fertilizantes à base de enxofre aplicados no solo durante dois verões consecutivos (2014 e 2015). O ensaio experimental foi composto de três fontes diferentes de enxofre (sulfato de amônio, sulfato de potássio e enxofre elementar) e pulverização foliar do promotor de crescimento de plantas e retardador de crescimento, incluindo água da torneira que foi tomada como controle. Entre os tratamentos, o sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo com aminoácido aplicado na folhagem produziu o máximo na altura da planta, ramos simodiais, capulhos por planta, rendimento de algodão em caroço, rendimento de fibra, rendimento biológico, conteúdo de proteínas, conteúdo de óleo e absorção de nitrogênio nas folhas quando comparado a outros tratamentos. Enquanto o solo fertilizado com sulfato de potássio e aplicação foliar de cloreto de mepiquat no algodão melhorou, significativamente, o peso do capulho e a absorção de potássio nas folhas. Sulfato de amônio aplicado no solo e a aplicação foliar de aminoácidos foram mais eficazes na melhora dos atributos de produtividade e qualidade do algodão.(AU)

Antifungal activity of homeopathic medicines against the white mold causing agent Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

White mold disease, caused by fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary., is a disease hard to control due to the high amount of sclerotia produced, which guarantees its survival in the soil for years leading to significant yield losses. Alternative techniques to control the pathogen have been researched, including homeopathy. The present work aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal effect of homeopathic medicines on S. sclerotiorum mycelial growth. Homeopathic medicines Sulphur, fungal sclerotium Nosode and Calcarea carbonica, in 30CH, 200CH and 1000CH dynamizations were tested. Assays were carried out in a completely randomized design, with four repetitions. Experiments were performed through the addition of homeopathic medicines on the surface of plates containing culture medium, followed by insertion of a disc containing fungus mycelia and incubation. Control treatment received no homeopathic medicine. The mycelial progression was monitored by seven halo diameter measurements during experiment period. All homeopathic medicines tested and their dynamizations were able to inhibit partially the development of the fungus. Calcarea carbonica at the dynamization of 1000 CH showed the best inhibitory effect on S. sclerotiorum, which under its effect produced a mycelial halo 40% smaller than the control treatment.

Antifungal activity of homeopathic medicines against the white mold causing agent Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

White mold disease, caused by fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary., is a disease hard to control due to the high amount of sclerotia produced, which guarantees its survival in the soil for years leading to significant yield losses. Alternative techniques to control the pathogen have been researched, including homeopathy. The present work aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal effect of homeopathic medicines on S. sclerotiorum mycelial growth. Homeopathic medicines Sulphur, fungal sclerotium Nosode and Calcarea carbonica, in 30CH, 200CH and 1000CH dynamizations were tested. Assays were carried out in a completely randomized design, with four repetitions. Experiments were performed through the addition of homeopathic medicines on the surface of plates containing culture medium, followed by insertion of a disc containing fungus mycelia and incubation. Control treatment received no homeopathic medicine. The mycelial progression was monitored by seven halo diameter measurements during experiment period. All homeopathic medicines tested and their dynamizations were able to inhibit partially the development of the fungus. Calcarea carbonica at the dynamization of 1000 CH showed the best inhibitory effect on S. sclerotiorum, which under its effect produced a mycelial halo 40% smaller than the control treatment.(AU)

Estimation of leaf nutrient concentration from hyperspectral reflectance in Eucalyptus using partial least squares regression

Leaf hyperspectral reflectance has been used to estimate nutrient concentrations in plants in narrow bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. The aim of this study was to estimate leaf nutrient concentrations using leaf hyperspectral reflectance and verify the variable selection methods using the partial least squares regression (PLSR). Two studies were carried out using stands with Eucalyptus clones. Study I was established in Eucalyptus stands with three clones, classifying leaves into five colour patterns using the Munsell chart for plant tissues. Immediately after leaf collection, leaf reflectance was read and the chemical analysis was performed. Study II was carried out in commercial clonal stands of Eucalyptus performing the same leaf sampling and chemical analysis as used in Study I. All leaf reflectance spectra were smoothed and three more pre-processing procedures were applied. In addition, three methods of PLSR were tested. The first derivative was more accurate for predicting nitrogen ( Rcv2=0.95 ), phosphorous ( Rcv2=0.93 ), and sulphur concentration ( Rcv2=0.85 ). The estimates for concentrations of calcium ( Rcv2=0.81 ), magnesium ( Rcv2=0.22 ), and potassium ( Rcv2=0.76 ) were more accurate using the logarithm transformation. Only the estimates for iron concentrations were performed with higher accuracy ( Rcv2=0.35 ) using the smoothed reflectance. The copper concentrations were more accurate ( Rcv2=0.78 ) using the logarithm transformation. Concentrations of boron ( Rcv2=0.68 ) and manganese ( Rcv2=0.79 ) were more accurate using the first derivative, while zinc ( Rcv2=0.31 ) concentration was most accurate using the second derivative.

Dietary levels of methionine plus cystine and chelated copper on the chemical composition of eggs and yolk cholesterol of 49-week-old brown laying hens / Níveis dietéticos de metionina + cistina e cobre quelatado sobre a composição química e colesterol dos ovos de poedeiras marrons com 49 semanas de idade

The present study aims to evaluate the possible interactions of dietary levels of methionine plus cystine (Met + Cys) and organic copper (Cu) on the chemical composition of eggs, using 320 Hy-Line Brown hens at 49 weeks of age. Composition and deposition variables were evaluated in a 4 × 5 factorial arrangement, with total analysed levels of 18, 44, 71, and 99 mg kg-1 of Cu and 0.613, 0.631, 0.816, 0.918, and 0.955% Met + Cys. We allocated four replicate cages (four hens/cage) to each treatment group. Two eggs per plot were sampled to determine the chemical composition of albumen and yolk, based on natural and dry matter and on daily rates of deposition. An interaction effect of Met + Cys and Cu levels was observed for deposition rates of ash and Cu in the yolk, and the chemical composition of Ethereal Extract (EE) and ash in eggs, EE in albumen and Nitrogen, EE, and ash in the yolk. An isolated effect was observed for Met + Cys on egg chemical composition and on shell and yolk fractions, as well as on deposition rates of albumen N, EE, and ash, and yolk EE. The yolk cholesterol content increased by 18.17% with increasing Met + Cys in diets. In conclusion, the chemical composition of eggs varied with dietary Met + Cys and organic Cu concentrations. Dietary levels of Met + Cys determined the yolk cholesterol concentration in laying hens.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as possíveis interações dos níveis alimentares de metionina mais cistina (Met + Cys) e cobre orgânico (Cu) na composição química dos ovos, utilizando 320 galinhas Hy-Line Brown com 49 semanas de idade. As variáveis de composição e deposição foram avaliadas em arranjo fatorial 4 × 5, com níveis totais analisados de 18, 44, 71 e 99 mg kg-1 de Cu e 0,613, 0,631, 0,816, 0,918 e 0,955% de Met + Cys. Alocaram-se quatro gaiolas replicadas (quatro galinhas / gaiola) para cada grupo de tratamento. Foram amostrados dois ovos por parcela para determinar a composição química do albúmen e da gema, com base na matéria natural e seca e nas taxas diárias de deposição. Foi observado um efeito de interação dos níveis de Met + Cys e Cu para as taxas de deposição de cinzas e Cu na gema e composição química do Extrato Etéreo (EE) e cinzas nos ovos, EE no albume e nitrogênio, EE e cinzas na gema. gema. Um efeito isolado foi observado para Met + Cys na composição química dos ovos e nas frações de casca e gema, bem como nas taxas de deposição de N no albúmen, EE e cinzas e gema EE. O teor de colesterol na gema aumentou 18,17% com o aumento de Met + Cys nas dietas. A composição do ovo variou com as concentrações de Met + Cys e Cu orgânico. Os níveis alimentares de Met + Cys determinaram a concentração de colesterol na gema em galinhas poedeiras.

Dietary levels of methionine plus cystine and chelated copper on the chemical composition of eggs and yolk cholesterol of 49-week-old brown laying hens / Níveis dietéticos de metionina + cistina e cobre quelatado sobre a composição química e colesterol dos ovos de poedeiras marrons com 49 semanas de idade

The present study aims to evaluate the possible interactions of dietary levels of methionine plus cystine (Met + Cys) and organic copper (Cu) on the chemical composition of eggs, using 320 Hy-Line Brown hens at 49 weeks of age. Composition and deposition variables were evaluated in a 4 × 5 factorial arrangement, with total analysed levels of 18, 44, 71, and 99 mg kg-1 of Cu and 0.613, 0.631, 0.816, 0.918, and 0.955% Met + Cys. We allocated four replicate cages (four hens/cage) to each treatment group. Two eggs per plot were sampled to determine the chemical composition of albumen and yolk, based on natural and dry matter and on daily rates of deposition. An interaction effect of Met + Cys and Cu levels was observed for deposition rates of ash and Cu in the yolk, and the chemical composition of Ethereal Extract (EE) and ash in eggs, EE in albumen and Nitrogen, EE, and ash in the yolk. An isolated effect was observed for Met + Cys on egg chemical composition and on shell and yolk fractions, as well as on deposition rates of albumen N, EE, and ash, and yolk EE. The yolk cholesterol content increased by 18.17% with increasing Met + Cys in diets. In conclusion, the chemical composition of eggs varied with dietary Met + Cys and organic Cu concentrations. Dietary levels of Met + Cys determined the yolk cholesterol concentration in laying hens.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as possíveis interações dos níveis alimentares de metionina mais cistina (Met + Cys) e cobre orgânico (Cu) na composição química dos ovos, utilizando 320 galinhas Hy-Line Brown com 49 semanas de idade. As variáveis de composição e deposição foram avaliadas em arranjo fatorial 4 × 5, com níveis totais analisados de 18, 44, 71 e 99 mg kg-1 de Cu e 0,613, 0,631, 0,816, 0,918 e 0,955% de Met + Cys. Alocaram-se quatro gaiolas replicadas (quatro galinhas / gaiola) para cada grupo de tratamento. Foram amostrados dois ovos por parcela para determinar a composição química do albúmen e da gema, com base na matéria natural e seca e nas taxas diárias de deposição. Foi observado um efeito de interação dos níveis de Met + Cys e Cu para as taxas de deposição de cinzas e Cu na gema e composição química do Extrato Etéreo (EE) e cinzas nos ovos, EE no albume e nitrogênio, EE e cinzas na gema. gema. Um efeito isolado foi observado para Met + Cys na composição química dos ovos e nas frações de casca e gema, bem como nas taxas de deposição de N no albúmen, EE e cinzas e gema EE. O teor de colesterol na gema aumentou 18,17% com o aumento de Met + Cys nas dietas. A composição do ovo variou com as concentrações de Met + Cys e Cu orgânico. Os níveis alimentares de Met + Cys determinaram a concentração de colesterol na gema em galinhas poedeiras.(AU)

Estimation of leaf nutrient concentration from hyperspectral reflectance in Eucalyptus using partial least squares regression

Leaf hyperspectral reflectance has been used to estimate nutrient concentrations in plants in narrow bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. The aim of this study was to estimate leaf nutrient concentrations using leaf hyperspectral reflectance and verify the variable selection methods using the partial least squares regression (PLSR). Two studies were carried out using stands with Eucalyptus clones. Study I was established in Eucalyptus stands with three clones, classifying leaves into five colour patterns using the Munsell chart for plant tissues. Immediately after leaf collection, leaf reflectance was read and the chemical analysis was performed. Study II was carried out in commercial clonal stands of Eucalyptus performing the same leaf sampling and chemical analysis as used in Study I. All leaf reflectance spectra were smoothed and three more pre-processing procedures were applied. In addition, three methods of PLSR were tested. The first derivative was more accurate for predicting nitrogen ( Rcv2=0.95 ), phosphorous ( Rcv2=0.93 ), and sulphur concentration ( Rcv2=0.85 ). The estimates for concentrations of calcium ( Rcv2=0.81 ), magnesium ( Rcv2=0.22 ), and potassium ( Rcv2=0.76 ) were more accurate using the logarithm transformation. Only the estimates for iron concentrations were performed with higher accuracy ( Rcv2=0.35 ) using the smoothed reflectance. The copper concentrations were more accurate ( Rcv2=0.78 ) using the logarithm transformation. Concentrations of boron ( Rcv2=0.68 ) and manganese ( Rcv2=0.79 ) were more accurate using the first derivative, while zinc ( Rcv2=0.31 ) concentration was most accurate using the second derivative.(AU)

Apparent Faecal Digestibility of Essential Amino Acids from 3 Pufa Diets for Laying Hens

The apparent faecal digestibility of the essential amino acids from 3 PUFA layer diets and feeding solutions to avoid possible adverse effects of such diets were investigated in two experiments conducted on Lohmann Brown laying hens. Experiment 1 used 72 layers assigned to three groups (C1, E1-1, E2), while experiment 2 used 96 layers assigned to four groups (C2, E1-2, E3, E4). All experimental diets have been enriched in 3 PUFA by supplementing a conventional diet (C1, C2) with 5% flaxseed meal and 2% camelina meal. Diets E2 and E4 had an increased level of Cu (150 mg/kg), diets E3 and E4 were supplemented with 0.0125% enzyme mix, while diets E1-1 and E1-2 were only supplemented with 5% flaxseed meal and 2% camelina meal. The digestibility coefficients of the studied essential amino acids (threonine, valine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, cystine, methionine) were lower (p0.05) in groups E1-1 and E2 from experiment 1, than in the control group (C1). In experiment 2, the supplemental enzyme mix (E3) increased (p0.05) the digestibility coefficients of phenylalanine, lysine, cystine and methionine, compared to the diet with camelina and flaxseed meals (E1-2). The simultaneous inclusion of copper and enzyme mix in the E4 diet increased (p0.05) lysine digestibility compared to group E1-2 and sulphur amino acids digestibility, compared to the other groups (C2, E1-2 and E3). In both experiments, only the feed conversion ratio was different (p0.05) in favour of the control groups (C1 and C2), compared to the other groups.(AU)

Apparent Faecal Digestibility of Essential Amino Acids from 3 Pufa Diets for Laying Hens

The apparent faecal digestibility of the essential amino acids from 3 PUFA layer diets and feeding solutions to avoid possible adverse effects of such diets were investigated in two experiments conducted on Lohmann Brown laying hens. Experiment 1 used 72 layers assigned to three groups (C1, E1-1, E2), while experiment 2 used 96 layers assigned to four groups (C2, E1-2, E3, E4). All experimental diets have been enriched in 3 PUFA by supplementing a conventional diet (C1, C2) with 5% flaxseed meal and 2% camelina meal. Diets E2 and E4 had an increased level of Cu (150 mg/kg), diets E3 and E4 were supplemented with 0.0125% enzyme mix, while diets E1-1 and E1-2 were only supplemented with 5% flaxseed meal and 2% camelina meal. The digestibility coefficients of the studied essential amino acids (threonine, valine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, cystine, methionine) were lower (p0.05) in groups E1-1 and E2 from experiment 1, than in the control group (C1). In experiment 2, the supplemental enzyme mix (E3) increased (p0.05) the digestibility coefficients of phenylalanine, lysine, cystine and methionine, compared to the diet with camelina and flaxseed meals (E1-2). The simultaneous inclusion of copper and enzyme mix in the E4 diet increased (p0.05) lysine digestibility compared to group E1-2 and sulphur amino acids digestibility, compared to the other groups (C2, E1-2 and E3). In both experiments, only the feed conversion ratio was different (p0.05) in favour of the control groups (C1 and C2), compared to the other groups.

Bioflocculant production from Streptomyces platensis and its potential for river and waste water treatment

A bacterium isolated from Sterkfontein dam was confirmed to produce bioflocculant with excellent flocculation activity. The 16S rDNA nucleotide sequence analyses revealed the bacteria to have 99% similarity to Streptomyces platensis strain HBUM174787 and the sequence was deposited in the Genbank as Streptomyces platensis with accession number FJ 486385.1. Culture conditions for optimal production of the bioflocculant included glucose as a sole carbon source, resulting in flocculating activity of 90%. Other optimal conditions included: peptone as nitrogen source; presence of Mg2+ as cations and inoculum size of 1.0% (v/v) at neutral pH of 7. Optimum dose of the purified bioflocculant for the clarification of 4 g/L kaolin clay suspension at neutral pH was 0.2 mg/mL. Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis confirmed elemental composition of the purified bioflocculant in mass proportion (%w/w): carbon (21.41), oxygen (35.59), sulphur (26.16), nitrogen (0.62) and potassium (7.48). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, methoxyl and amino group in the bioflocculant. The bioflocculant produced by S. platensis removed chemical oxygen demand (COD) in river water and meat processing wastewater at efficiencies of 63.1 and 46.6% respectively and reduced their turbidity by 84.3 and 75.6% respectively. The high flocculating rate and removal efficiencies displayed by S. platensis suggests its industrial application in wastewater treatment.(AU)

Teor crítico de Enxofre no solo para o estabelecimento de clones de erva-mate no Sul do Brasil / Critical level of available sulphur in the soil during establishment of clones of yerba mate at Southern Brazil

O cultivo da erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil.) apresenta grande importância econômica na região Sul do Brasil. Contudo, a necessidade de fertilização no estabelecimento de plantios de erva-mate ainda é pouco conhecida. O trabalho objetivou avaliar a adubação sulfatada no crescimento inicial de dois clones de erva-mate em um Cambissolo Húmico. O experimento foi implantado em Itaiópolis, SC, testando quatro doses de enxofre (S) (0; 1,2; 2,4 e 3,6 kg de S-SO4 ha-¹) em dois clones femininos de erva-mate (F1 e F2). Avaliou-se a massa verde e a exportação de nutrientes pelas folhas, galhos finos (≤ 7mm), galhos grossos (> 7mm) e erva-mate comercial (folhas + galhos finos) e massa total. O S-SO4 foi avaliado na camada de 0-20 cm do solo 24 meses após a aplicação dos tratamentos e plantio das mudas. A produtividade de galho fino e a massa total foram influenciadas pela dose de S, independentemente do clone, indicando a exigência do nutriente para aumentar o rendimento de massa verde. Ainda, o clone F2 apresentou maior produção de galho grosso em função da dose de S. Assim, sugere-se o teor mínimo de 10 mg dm-3 S-SO4 no solo para um adequado estabelecimento de clones de erva-mate.(AU)

The cultivation of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil.) has great economic importance in the Southern of Brazil. However, the fertilization requirements in the establishment of yerba mate plantations is still unknown. The objective of this work was to evaluate the needs of sulfate fertilization on the initial growth of two clones of yerba mate in a Humic Cambisol. An experiment was carried out in Itaiópolis, SC and fourdoses of S (0.0; 1.2; 2.4 and 3.6 kg of S-SO4 ²- ha-¹) and two clones (F1 and F2) were tested. The green mass and the export of nutrients were evaluated: leafs, fine twigs, thick twigs and commercial yerba mate (leaf + fine twigs), and total mass. Soil available S-SO4 was evaluated in the 0-20 cm soil layer 24 months after planting. The production of thick twigs increased with application of S, for clone F2. However, the yield of fine twig and total mass were influenced by the dose of S, independent of the clone. Thus, there was a positive response from the application of sulfur to clone F2, indicating that it is demanding on the nutrient, increasing the yield of green mass and the levels of S-SO4 in the soil.(AU)

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of finishing gilts fed diets with different levels of SID methionine + cystine and vitamin B6 supplementation / Características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de fêmeas suínas em terminação alimentadas com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de metionina+cistina digestíveis e suplementação de vitamina B6

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of different levels of standardized ileal digestible (SID) methionine + cystine (Met + Cys) and vitamin B6 supplementation on the carcass characteristics and longissimus lumborum (LL) quality in gilts from 75 to 100 kg. Fifty-six gilts were used (Talent x Topigs 20), with an initial average body weight of 75.06 ± 1.68 kg, allotted in a completely randomized block design arranged in a 2×4 factorial scheme, composed of two vitamin B6 supplementation levels (1.58 and 3.58 mg/kg) and four levels of SID Met + Cys (0.370, 0.470, 0.570, and 0.670%), with seven replicates and one animal per experimental unit. No interactions (P > 0.05) between vitamin B6 supplementation and SID Met + Cys levels were observed. The levels of SID Met + Cys and vitamin B6 supplementation did not affect the carcass characteristics. Thawing loss increased linearly, and a quadratic effect was observed for cooking loss and shear force of the LL when dietary SID Met + Cys levels increased. The highest cooking loss (27.29%) and shear force (21.58 N) were estimated at 0.528 and 0.539% SID Met + Cys levels, respectively. The dietary SID Met + Cys requirement for gilts (75100 kg) did not exceed 10.60 g/day (0.37%), based on carcass characteristics and meat quality parameters, and was not affected by vitamin B6 supplementation.

O objetivo foi avaliar os efeitos de níveis de metionina+cistina (Met+Cis) digestíveis e da suplementação de vitamina B6 sobre as características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de fêmeas suínas, dos 75 aos 100 kg. Foram utilizados 56 fêmeas suínas (Talent x Topigs 20), com peso médio inicial de 75,06 ± 1,68 kg; distribuídas em um delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, num esquema fatorial 2×4, constituído de dois níveis suplementares de vitamina B6 (1,58 e 3,58 mg/kg) e quatro níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis (0,370; 0, 470; 0, 570 e 0, 670%), com sete repetições e um animal por unidade experimental. Não foram observadas interações (P > 0,05) entre suplementação de vitamina B6 e os níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis estudados. Os níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis e a suplementação de vitamina B6 não afetaram as características de carcaça. Foi observado um aumento linear na perda de líquido por descongelamento e uma resposta quadrática para a perda de líquido por cocção e força de cisalhamento em função dos níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis. A maior perda por cocção (27,29%) e força de cisalhamento (21,58 N) foram estimados para os níveis de 0,528 e 0,539%, respectivamente. Conclui-se que a exigência de Met+Cis digestível para fêmeas suínas, dos 75 aos 100 kg, é de no máximo 10,60 g/dia (0,370%), com base nas características de carcaça e nos parâmetros de qualidade de carne, não...

Teor crítico de Enxofre no solo para o estabelecimento de clones de erva-mate no Sul do Brasil / Critical level of available sulphur in the soil during establishment of clones of yerba mate at Southern Brazil

O cultivo da erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil.) apresenta grande importância econômica na região Sul do Brasil. Contudo, a necessidade de fertilização no estabelecimento de plantios de erva-mate ainda é pouco conhecida. O trabalho objetivou avaliar a adubação sulfatada no crescimento inicial de dois clones de erva-mate em um Cambissolo Húmico. O experimento foi implantado em Itaiópolis, SC, testando quatro doses de enxofre (S) (0; 1,2; 2,4 e 3,6 kg de S-SO4 ha-¹) em dois clones femininos de erva-mate (F1 e F2). Avaliou-se a massa verde e a exportação de nutrientes pelas folhas, galhos finos (≤ 7mm), galhos grossos (> 7mm) e erva-mate comercial (folhas + galhos finos) e massa total. O S-SO4 foi avaliado na camada de 0-20 cm do solo 24 meses após a aplicação dos tratamentos e plantio das mudas. A produtividade de galho fino e a massa total foram influenciadas pela dose de S, independentemente do clone, indicando a exigência do nutriente para aumentar o rendimento de massa verde. Ainda, o clone F2 apresentou maior produção de galho grosso em função da dose de S. Assim, sugere-se o teor mínimo de 10 mg dm-3 S-SO4 no solo para um adequado estabelecimento de clones de erva-mate.

The cultivation of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil.) has great economic importance in the Southern of Brazil. However, the fertilization requirements in the establishment of yerba mate plantations is still unknown. The objective of this work was to evaluate the needs of sulfate fertilization on the initial growth of two clones of yerba mate in a Humic Cambisol. An experiment was carried out in Itaiópolis, SC and fourdoses of S (0.0; 1.2; 2.4 and 3.6 kg of S-SO4 ²- ha-¹) and two clones (F1 and F2) were tested. The green mass and the export of nutrients were evaluated: leafs, fine twigs, thick twigs and commercial yerba mate (leaf + fine twigs), and total mass. Soil available S-SO4 was evaluated in the 0-20 cm soil layer 24 months after planting. The production of thick twigs increased with application of S, for clone F2. However, the yield of fine twig and total mass were influenced by the dose of S, independent of the clone. Thus, there was a positive response from the application of sulfur to clone F2, indicating that it is demanding on the nutrient, increasing the yield of green mass and the levels of S-SO4 in the soil.

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of finishing gilts fed diets with different levels of SID methionine + cystine and vitamin B6 supplementation / Características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de fêmeas suínas em terminação alimentadas com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de metionina+cistina digestíveis e suplementação de vitamina B6

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of different levels of standardized ileal digestible (SID) methionine + cystine (Met + Cys) and vitamin B6 supplementation on the carcass characteristics and longissimus lumborum (LL) quality in gilts from 75 to 100 kg. Fifty-six gilts were used (Talent x Topigs 20), with an initial average body weight of 75.06 ± 1.68 kg, allotted in a completely randomized block design arranged in a 2×4 factorial scheme, composed of two vitamin B6 supplementation levels (1.58 and 3.58 mg/kg) and four levels of SID Met + Cys (0.370, 0.470, 0.570, and 0.670%), with seven replicates and one animal per experimental unit. No interactions (P > 0.05) between vitamin B6 supplementation and SID Met + Cys levels were observed. The levels of SID Met + Cys and vitamin B6 supplementation did not affect the carcass characteristics. Thawing loss increased linearly, and a quadratic effect was observed for cooking loss and shear force of the LL when dietary SID Met + Cys levels increased. The highest cooking loss (27.29%) and shear force (21.58 N) were estimated at 0.528 and 0.539% SID Met + Cys levels, respectively. The dietary SID Met + Cys requirement for gilts (75100 kg) did not exceed 10.60 g/day (0.37%), based on carcass characteristics and meat quality parameters, and was not affected by vitamin B6 supplementation.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar os efeitos de níveis de metionina+cistina (Met+Cis) digestíveis e da suplementação de vitamina B6 sobre as características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de fêmeas suínas, dos 75 aos 100 kg. Foram utilizados 56 fêmeas suínas (Talent x Topigs 20), com peso médio inicial de 75,06 ± 1,68 kg; distribuídas em um delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, num esquema fatorial 2×4, constituído de dois níveis suplementares de vitamina B6 (1,58 e 3,58 mg/kg) e quatro níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis (0,370; 0, 470; 0, 570 e 0, 670%), com sete repetições e um animal por unidade experimental. Não foram observadas interações (P > 0,05) entre suplementação de vitamina B6 e os níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis estudados. Os níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis e a suplementação de vitamina B6 não afetaram as características de carcaça. Foi observado um aumento linear na perda de líquido por descongelamento e uma resposta quadrática para a perda de líquido por cocção e força de cisalhamento em função dos níveis de Met+Cis digestíveis. A maior perda por cocção (27,29%) e força de cisalhamento (21,58 N) foram estimados para os níveis de 0,528 e 0,539%, respectivamente. Conclui-se que a exigência de Met+Cis digestível para fêmeas suínas, dos 75 aos 100 kg, é de no máximo 10,60 g/dia (0,370%), com base nas características de carcaça e nos parâmetros de qualidade de carne, não...(AU)

Effect of simulated acid rain on the survival, mortality, behaviour and morphology of African mud catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) / Efeito da chuva ácida simulada sobre a sobrevivência, mortalidade, comportamento e morfologia do peixe-gato de lama africana Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

This study simulated acidic habitat for different life stages of Clarias gariepinus to know the effect on survival, mortality, morphology and behaviour. The fish were exposed to pHs 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8.01 (control) for 35 days. 100% mortality was recorded for all the life stages in pH 3, and 80, 62 and 36% of mortality of fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively were recorded in pH 4. In pH 5, 30, 26 and 12% mortalities of fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively were recorded and at pH 6 mortalities of fingerlings, juveniles and adults were 12, 10 and 4% respectively. Control pH mortalities were 10, 6 and 2% for fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively. Mortality was due to lack of oxygen uptake, stress and circulatory collapse. All these elicited the behavioural responses and morphological abnormalities like erratic swimming, gasping, dark body colouration and lethargy. The study showed that different life stages of C. gariepinus tolerate different acidic pH waters, with high mortalities of the fingerlings, juveniles and adults in pHs 3, pH 4 is sub-lethal to fingerlings, juveniles and adult, pH 5 sub-lethal to fingerlings and sub-optimal for juveniles, and pH 6 optimal for all life stages.

Este estudo simulou um habitat ácido para diferentes estágios de vida de Clarias gariepinus para conhecer o efeito na sobrevivência, mortalidade, morfologia e comportamento. Os peixes foram expostos aos pH 3, 4, 5, 6 e 8.01 (controle) por 35 dias. A mortalidade de 100% foi registrada em todos os estágios da vida em pH 3, e 80, 62 e 36% da mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente, foram registradas em pH 4. Em pH 5, 30, 26 e 12% de mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente, foram registrados e, a pH 6, a mortalidades de aletanas, juvenis e adultos foram 12, 10 e 4%, respectivamente. A mortalidade por pH de controle foi de 10, 6 e 2% para alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente. A mortalidade deveu-se à falta de absorção de oxigênio, estresse e colapso circulatório. Tudo isso provocou respostas comportamentais e anormalidades morfológicas como natação errática, ofegante, coloração do corpo escuro e letargia. O estudo evidenciou que diferentes estágios de vida de C. gariepinus toleram diferentes águas ácidas do pH, com alta mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos em pH 3, pH 4 é sub-letal para alevinos, juvenis e adultos, pH 5 sub-letal para alevinos e sub-ótima para juvenis, e pH 6 ideal para todos os estádios da vida.

Effect of simulated acid rain on the survival, mortality, behaviour and morphology of African mud catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) / Efeito da chuva ácida simulada sobre a sobrevivência, mortalidade, comportamento e morfologia do peixe-gato de lama africana Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

This study simulated acidic habitat for different life stages of Clarias gariepinus to know the effect on survival, mortality, morphology and behaviour. The fish were exposed to pHs 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8.01 (control) for 35 days. 100% mortality was recorded for all the life stages in pH 3, and 80, 62 and 36% of mortality of fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively were recorded in pH 4. In pH 5, 30, 26 and 12% mortalities of fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively were recorded and at pH 6 mortalities of fingerlings, juveniles and adults were 12, 10 and 4% respectively. Control pH mortalities were 10, 6 and 2% for fingerlings, juveniles and adults respectively. Mortality was due to lack of oxygen uptake, stress and circulatory collapse. All these elicited the behavioural responses and morphological abnormalities like erratic swimming, gasping, dark body colouration and lethargy. The study showed that different life stages of C. gariepinus tolerate different acidic pH waters, with high mortalities of the fingerlings, juveniles and adults in pHs 3, pH 4 is sub-lethal to fingerlings, juveniles and adult, pH 5 sub-lethal to fingerlings and sub-optimal for juveniles, and pH 6 optimal for all life stages.(AU)

Este estudo simulou um habitat ácido para diferentes estágios de vida de Clarias gariepinus para conhecer o efeito na sobrevivência, mortalidade, morfologia e comportamento. Os peixes foram expostos aos pH 3, 4, 5, 6 e 8.01 (controle) por 35 dias. A mortalidade de 100% foi registrada em todos os estágios da vida em pH 3, e 80, 62 e 36% da mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente, foram registradas em pH 4. Em pH 5, 30, 26 e 12% de mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente, foram registrados e, a pH 6, a mortalidades de aletanas, juvenis e adultos foram 12, 10 e 4%, respectivamente. A mortalidade por pH de controle foi de 10, 6 e 2% para alevinos, juvenis e adultos, respectivamente. A mortalidade deveu-se à falta de absorção de oxigênio, estresse e colapso circulatório. Tudo isso provocou respostas comportamentais e anormalidades morfológicas como natação errática, ofegante, coloração do corpo escuro e letargia. O estudo evidenciou que diferentes estágios de vida de C. gariepinus toleram diferentes águas ácidas do pH, com alta mortalidade de alevinos, juvenis e adultos em pH 3, pH 4 é sub-letal para alevinos, juvenis e adultos, pH 5 sub-letal para alevinos e sub-ótima para juvenis, e pH 6 ideal para todos os estádios da vida.(AU)