Diet crude protein reduction on follicular fluid and cumulus-oocyte complexes of mid-lactating Girolando cows

This study evaluated the effect of crude protein (CP) reduction in four diets (156, 139, 132, and 127 g Kg-1 DM) maintaining constant metabolizable protein (188 g/day) on the follicular fluid and cumulus-oocyte complexes of mid-lactating Girolando cows. Twenty-two Girolando cows with average of 21.55 ±3.19 L daily milk yield, 105.30 ±22.62 days in lactation and 3.22 ±0.03 body condition score were selected. To reduce CP in diets and maintain constant metabolizable protein, urea and soybean meal were gradually replaced by lignosulfonate-treated soybean meal (SoyPass®, Cargill), resulting in an increase in rumen-undegradable protein and a reduction in rumen degradable protein. A linear and quadratic reduction was observed in the plasma and follicular fluid urea nitrogen concentration following CP reduction, with the most intense reduction occurring in the 127 g Kg-1 DM group (p<0.001). As CP reduced, there was a tendency for a linear increase in the follicular growth rate (P=0.0696), on the number and proportion of viable oocytes (P<0.09), and also a linear increase for the number (P=0.0397) and proportion (P<0.09) of grade I viable oocytes. Plus, there was a linear effect for the number of cumulus oophorus cells. Cows fed with the lowest amount of CP had cumulus-oocyte complexes with higher numbers of cumulus oophorus cells (P=0.0238). Also, the reduction of diet crude protein was followed by a decrease in the probability of oocytes' DNA degradation. In conclusion, the reduction of CP in the diet of mid-lactating Girolando cows, reduces urea nitrogen concentration in both blood plasma and follicular fluid, and, as a consequence, increases the viability of oocytes and the number of cumulus oophorus cells while reducing oocytes' DNA degradation of follicular included cumulus-oocyte complex. The reduction on dietary CP may improve in vivo oocytes' embryo development impacting fertility of lactating dairy cows.(AU)

Scrotal hemangiosarcoma in a Large White boar / Hemangiossarcoma na bolsa escrotal de um reprodutor Large White

Tumors are rarely diagnosed in swine specie because of the short lifespan of production animals. Normally, these tumors do not present any clinical signs and are often detected at the time of slaughter. A 2-year-old Large White boar, used in the reproductive management of a farm and without a history of pre-existing problems, was examined for skin lesions on the scrotum. Samples were collected from skin segments containing lesions for histopathological and immunohistochemical diagnosis. Microscopically, the nodes in the scrotum pouch consisted of poorly demarcated, highly cellular, expansile, and multifocally invasive neoplasms, composed of immature endotheliocytes organized into neovascular formations. The tumor cells were pleomorphic, slightly oval to spindle-shaped, with eosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei with one to three nucleoli. All the nodules analyzed were compatible with hemangiosarcoma. After immunohistochemical evaluation, for the quantification of tissue angiogenesis the neoplastic cells immunoexpressed the CD31 monoclonal antibodies and factor VIII, through the identification of proteins expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. The Ki67 cell proliferation marker was positive in approximately 10% of the neoplastic cells, demonstrating a high degree of malignancy. Hemangiosarcoma in swine species has already been identified in several organs and tissues; however, to date, no study has demonstrated the diagnosis of this condition on the skin of the scrotum, as reported in this study. Therefore, it is expected that this report will contribute to the knowledge of the frequency of neoplasms in swine species.

Na espécie suína os tumores são pouco diagnosticados devido a curta vida útil dos animais de produção. Normalmente não causam sinais clínicos, sendo, muitas vezes, encontrados no momento do abate. Um reprodutor com dois anos de idade, da raça Large White, utilizado no manejo reprodutivo de uma granja, sem histórico de problemas pré-existentes, foi examinado em função de lesões na pele da bolsa escrotal. Foram coletadas amostras de segmentos de pele contendo lesões para o diagnóstico histopatológico e imunohistoquímico. Microscopicamente os nodos em bolsa escrotal consistiam em neoplasias mal demarcadas, altamente celulares, expansivas e multifocalmente invasivas composta por endoteliócitos imaturos organizados em formações neovasculares. As células tumorais eram pleomórficas, levemente ovais a fusiformes com citoplasma eosinofílico e núcleos hipercromáticos e com um a três nucléolos. Todos os nódulos analisados foram compatíveis com hemangiossarcoma. Para a quantificação da angiogênese tecidual, após a avaliação imunohistoquímica, as células neoplásicas imunoexpressaram os anticorpos monoclonais CD31 e Fator VIII, através da identificação de proteínas expressas na superfície das células endoteliais. Observou-se o marcador de proliferação celular Ki67 positivo em aproximadamente 10% das células neoplásicas, demonstrando um alto grau de malignidade. O hemangiossarcoma na espécie suína já foi identificado em vários órgãos e tecidos, mas, até o momento, nenhum trabalho demonstrou o diagnóstico na pele da bolsa escrotal, como reportado, ineditamente, neste estudo. Face o exposto, espera-se que este relato contribua para a frequência de neoplasias encontradas na espécie suína.

Estacionalidade e a produção de oócitos e embriões in vitro em vacas Gir leiteiro na região sudeste do Brasil / Seasonality and the production of oocytes and in vitro embryos in Gir dairy cows in the southeast region of Brazil

A eficiência reprodutiva de doadoras de embriões Bos taurus é afetada pelas estações devido ao estresse calórico em países de clima tropical e temperado. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito das condições climáticas de verão e inverno na produção de oócitos e embriões in vitro na raça Gir Leiteiro (Bos indicus) em fazendas da região Sudeste do Brasil. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: total de oócitos recuperados (OT), oócitos viáveis (OV) e percentual de oócitos viáveis sobre o total (POV); embriões produzidos (EP) e percentual de embriões produzidos (PEP) sobre o total de estruturas recuperadas pela aspiração folicular guiada por ultrassonografia (OPU). Os oócitos foram obtidos de 153 doadoras pluríparas de diferentes idades e ordens de parição de 10 rebanhos. As médias obtidas em 380 aspirações foliculares (OPU) nos meses de verão foram: OT=14,8; OV=12,6; EP= 3,4; PEP=22,3%, e no inverno de OT=13,4; OV=10,8; EP=3,5; PEP=26,1%, apresentando coeficiente de variação de até 84%, porém sem diferença estatísticas (p<0,05) entre estes períodos, utilizando-se o teste de Kruscal Wallis s (p<0,05). Apenas a percentagem de oócitos viáveis foi maior (p<0,05) no período de verão (POV=84,4 vs. 80,0%), contudo, o total de embriões PIVE foi semelhante nos dois períodos. Conclui-se que a produção de embriões da raça Gir Leiteiro, criadas na região Sudeste do Brasil, não foi afetada pela sazonalidade climática.

The reproductive performance of B.taurus embryo donors is affected in many tropical and temperate countries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the climatic conditions of summer and winter climatic conditions on the production of oocytes and in vitro embryos in dairy cows of the breed Gir Leiteiro (Bos indicus) at farms in Southeast of the Brazil. The variable answers evaluated were the total oocytes recovered (TO) and percentage of viable oocytes over the total (PVO); embryo production (EP) and percentage of embryos in viable oocytes (PE) over the total of structures recovered by follicular aspiration guided by ultrasonography (OPU). The oocytes analyzed were obtained from 10 herds and 153 pubertal donors of different ages and orders of parturition. The average from 380 ovum pick up (OPU) during summer were: TO=14.8; PVO=12.6; EP=3.4; PE=22.3%, and TO=13.4; PVO=10.8; EP=3.5; PE=26.1%, with variation coefficient of up to 84%, and no differences evaluated through the Kruscal Wallis (p<0.05). Only the percentage of viable oocytes was higher (p<0.05) in the summer period (PVO=84.4 vs. 80.0%). However, the embryo production (IVEP) was similar in both seasons (summer and winter). Therefore, we could conclude that the embryo production of Dairy Gir cows in Southeast of the Brazil was not affected by weather seasonality.

Estacionalidade e a produção de oócitos e embriões in vitro em vacas Gir leiteiro na região sudeste do Brasil / Seasonality and the production of oocytes and in vitro embryos in Gir dairy cows in the southeast region of Brazil

A eficiência reprodutiva de doadoras de embriões Bos taurus é afetada pelas estações devido ao estresse calórico em países de clima tropical e temperado. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito das condições climáticas de verão e inverno na produção de oócitos e embriões in vitro na raça Gir Leiteiro (Bos indicus) em fazendas da região Sudeste do Brasil. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: total de oócitos recuperados (OT), oócitos viáveis (OV) e percentual de oócitos viáveis sobre o total (POV); embriões produzidos (EP) e percentual de embriões produzidos (PEP) sobre o total de estruturas recuperadas pela aspiração folicular guiada por ultrassonografia (OPU). Os oócitos foram obtidos de 153 doadoras pluríparas de diferentes idades e ordens de parição de 10 rebanhos. As médias obtidas em 380 aspirações foliculares (OPU) nos meses de verão foram: OT=14,8; OV=12,6; EP= 3,4; PEP=22,3%, e no inverno de OT=13,4; OV=10,8; EP=3,5; PEP=26,1%, apresentando coeficiente de variação de até 84%, porém sem diferença estatísticas (p<0,05) entre estes períodos, utilizando-se o teste de Kruscal Wallis s (p<0,05). Apenas a percentagem de oócitos viáveis foi maior (p<0,05) no período de verão (POV=84,4 vs. 80,0%), contudo, o total de embriões PIVE foi semelhante nos dois períodos. Conclui-se que a produção de embriões da raça Gir Leiteiro, criadas na região Sudeste do Brasil, não foi afetada pela sazonalidade climática.(AU)

The reproductive performance of B.taurus embryo donors is affected in many tropical and temperate countries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the climatic conditions of summer and winter climatic conditions on the production of oocytes and in vitro embryos in dairy cows of the breed Gir Leiteiro (Bos indicus) at farms in Southeast of the Brazil. The variable answers evaluated were the total oocytes recovered (TO) and percentage of viable oocytes over the total (PVO); embryo production (EP) and percentage of embryos in viable oocytes (PE) over the total of structures recovered by follicular aspiration guided by ultrasonography (OPU). The oocytes analyzed were obtained from 10 herds and 153 pubertal donors of different ages and orders of parturition. The average from 380 ovum pick up (OPU) during summer were: TO=14.8; PVO=12.6; EP=3.4; PE=22.3%, and TO=13.4; PVO=10.8; EP=3.5; PE=26.1%, with variation coefficient of up to 84%, and no differences evaluated through the Kruscal Wallis (p<0.05). Only the percentage of viable oocytes was higher (p<0.05) in the summer period (PVO=84.4 vs. 80.0%). However, the embryo production (IVEP) was similar in both seasons (summer and winter). Therefore, we could conclude that the embryo production of Dairy Gir cows in Southeast of the Brazil was not affected by weather seasonality.(AU)

Morphological and morphometric characterization of trypanosomes in Leptodactylus lineatus and Osteocephalus sp. (Anura) from Brazilian Midwest / Caracterização morfológica e morfométrica dos tripanossomas de anuros do Centro-Oeste brasileiro

Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o parasitismo causado por tripanossomas em anuros naturalmente infectados do Centro-Oeste brasileiro e realizar a caracterização morfológica e morfométrica dos tripanossomas. Os anuros foram capturados às margens do Rio Guaporé, na transição entre os biomas Cerrado e Floresta Amazônica. Amostras de sangue de 16 espécies de anuros foram obtidas por punção cardíaca e analisadas para a presença de hemoparasitos. Tripanossomas foram encontrados infectando duas espécies de anuros, Leptodactylus lineatus (Leptodactylidae) e Osteocephalus sp. (Hylidae). Foi observada alta prevalência dos tripanossomas (100%; N = 3 hospedeiros) em L. lineatus, com intensidade da infecção calculada em 9.9 x 102 parasitos/ml. Em Osteocephalus sp., a prevalência foi comparativamente menor (36%; N = 4 hospedeiros infectados de 11 analisados), no entanto, a intensidade de infecção foi maior 2.16 x 103 parasitos/ml. Variações morfológicas relacionadas ao comprimento e largura do corpo foram observadas entre as diferentes espécies de hospedeiros e também em indivíduos da mesma espécie. Os tripanossomas polimórficos foram separados em morfotipos classificados como corpo alongado ou curto. Os tripanossomas que infectam L. lineatus possuem o corpo alongado que pode ser delgado ou largo e aqueles que infectam Osteocephalus sp. apresentam o corpo curto com a extremidade posterior alargada. A análise parasitológica e a caracterização morfológica apresentada neste estudo contribuem para o conhecimento da diversidade dos tripanossomas de anuros neotropicais.

The objective of this study was to evaluate parasitism caused by trypanosomes in naturally infected anurans from Brazilian Midwest and characterize trypanosomes by morphology and morphometry. Anurans were captured from margins of the Guaporé River in transition areas between Cerrado and Rain Forest. Blood samples of 16 anurans species were obtained by cardiac puncture and analyzed for the presence of hemoparasites. Trypanosomes were found infecting two anuran species, Leptodactylus lineatus (Leptodactylidae) and Osteocephalus sp. (Hylidae). It was observed high prevalence of trypanosomes (100%; N = 3) in L. lineatus, with intensity of infection of 9.9 × 102 parasites/ml. In Osteocephalus sp. the prevalence of trypanosomes was comparatively lower (36%; N = 4 from 11), however, the intensity of infection was higher 2.16 × 103 parasites/ml. Morphological variation related to body length and width of bloodstream trypomastigotes were observed in different host species and between individual hosts of the same species. Polymorphic trypanosomes were separated into morphotypes and classified as elongated or short trypanosomes. Trypanosomes infecting L. lineatus are elongated with slender or broad body and trypanosomes infecting Osteocephalus sp. presented a short body with broad posterior extremity. The parasitological analyses and morphological characterizations presented in this study contribute to the knowledge of diversity of trypanosomes from neotropical anurans.

Morphological and morphometric characterization of trypanosomes in Leptodactylus lineatus and Osteocephalus sp. (Anura) from Brazilian Midwest / Caracterização morfológica e morfométrica dos tripanossomas de anuros do Centro-Oeste brasileiro

Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o parasitismo causado por tripanossomas em anuros naturalmente infectados do Centro-Oeste brasileiro e realizar a caracterização morfológica e morfométrica dos tripanossomas. Os anuros foram capturados às margens do Rio Guaporé, na transição entre os biomas Cerrado e Floresta Amazônica. Amostras de sangue de 16 espécies de anuros foram obtidas por punção cardíaca e analisadas para a presença de hemoparasitos. Tripanossomas foram encontrados infectando duas espécies de anuros, Leptodactylus lineatus (Leptodactylidae) e Osteocephalus sp. (Hylidae). Foi observada alta prevalência dos tripanossomas (100%; N = 3 hospedeiros) em L. lineatus, com intensidade da infecção calculada em 9.9 x 102 parasitos/ml. Em Osteocephalus sp., a prevalência foi comparativamente menor (36%; N = 4 hospedeiros infectados de 11 analisados), no entanto, a intensidade de infecção foi maior 2.16 x 103 parasitos/ml. Variações morfológicas relacionadas ao comprimento e largura do corpo foram observadas entre as diferentes espécies de hospedeiros e também em indivíduos da mesma espécie. Os tripanossomas polimórficos foram separados em morfotipos classificados como corpo alongado ou curto. Os tripanossomas que infectam L. lineatus possuem o corpo alongado que pode ser delgado ou largo e aqueles que infectam Osteocephalus sp. apresentam o corpo curto com a extremidade posterior alargada. A análise parasitológica e a caracterização morfológica apresentada neste estudo contribuem para o conhecimento da diversidade dos tripanossomas de anuros neotropicais.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate parasitism caused by trypanosomes in naturally infected anurans from Brazilian Midwest and characterize trypanosomes by morphology and morphometry. Anurans were captured from margins of the Guaporé River in transition areas between Cerrado and Rain Forest. Blood samples of 16 anurans species were obtained by cardiac puncture and analyzed for the presence of hemoparasites. Trypanosomes were found infecting two anuran species, Leptodactylus lineatus (Leptodactylidae) and Osteocephalus sp. (Hylidae). It was observed high prevalence of trypanosomes (100%; N = 3) in L. lineatus, with intensity of infection of 9.9 × 102 parasites/ml. In Osteocephalus sp. the prevalence of trypanosomes was comparatively lower (36%; N = 4 from 11), however, the intensity of infection was higher 2.16 × 103 parasites/ml. Morphological variation related to body length and width of bloodstream trypomastigotes were observed in different host species and between individual hosts of the same species. Polymorphic trypanosomes were separated into morphotypes and classified as elongated or short trypanosomes. Trypanosomes infecting L. lineatus are elongated with slender or broad body and trypanosomes infecting Osteocephalus sp. presented a short body with broad posterior extremity. The parasitological analyses and morphological characterizations presented in this study contribute to the knowledge of diversity of trypanosomes from neotropical anurans.(AU)

Secondary metabolites produced by endophytic fungi: novel antifungal activity of fumiquinone B

Fungi are present in the most diverse environments including the interior of plant tissues, living as endophytes without causing apparent damage. These endophytes are producers of secondary metabolites, also known as natural products, such as fungicides. Here, we evaluated the ethyl acetate fractions obtained from endophytic fungiisolated from plants in the genus Begonia. The fractions were submitted to inhibitorytest against the plant pathogens Diaporthe phaseolorum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. From the 88 ethyl acetate fractions evaluated, 14.7 % inhibited C. gloeosporioidesand 11.3 %inhibited D. phaseolorum. One fungal isolate displaying an active fraction was selected for chemical investigation. The fungus identified as Neopestalotiopsissp., produced a compound that was active against D. phaseolorum, with a MIC of 312 μg mL-1(1,695.3 μM). The compound was identified by mass spectrometry and 1H NMR as the known compound fumiquinone B. The results highlight that the endophytes are capable of producing compounds that may be used to control plant pathogens. The compound fumiquinone B is reported for the first time as an antifungal agent against D. phaseolorum, a relevant plant pathogen worldwide. This is also the first report of the production of fumiquinone B by the genus Neopestalotiopsis.

The potential of compounds isolated from Xylaria spp. as antifungal agents against anthracnose

Anthracnose is a crop disease usually caused by fungi in the genus Colletotrichum or Gloeosporium. These are considered one of the main pathogens, causing significant economic losses, such as in peppers and guarana. The current forms of control include the use of resistant cultivars, sanitary pruning and fungicides. However, even with the use of some methods of controlling these cultures, the crops are not free of anthracnose. Additionally, excessive application of fungicides increases the resistance of pathogens to agrochemicals and cause harm to human health and the environment. In order to find natural antifungal agents against guarana anthracnose, endophytic fungi were isolated from Amazon guarana. The compounds piliformic acid and cytochalasin D were isolated by chromatographic techniques from two Xylaria spp., guided by assays with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The isolated compounds were identified by spectrometric techniques, as NMR and mass spectrometry. This is the first report that piliformic acid and cytochalasin D have antifungal activity against C. gloeosporioides with MIC 2.92 and 2.46 µmol mL-1 respectively. Captan and difenoconazole were included as positive controls (MIC 16.63 and 0.02 µmol mL-1, respectively). Thus, Xylaria species presented a biotechnological potential and production of different active compounds which might be promising against anthracnose disease.(AU)

Breed composition does not influence the performance of Holstein-Gyr crossbred as oocyte donors for OPU/IVP

Holstein-Gyr crossbred cattle are strategic for dairy systems in tropical countries, since they combine milk yield genetics with adaptability to tropical climate. However, Holstein (Bos taurus) and Gyr (Bos indicus) breeds present remarkable differences regarding reproductive physiology. Brazil stands out as the world’s largest user of embryo in vitro production (IVP) in bovine, and the use of this technique is increasing in dairy systems. As Holstein-Gyr crossbreds are important oocyte donors for IVP, the present work aimed at investigating whether increased Gyr or Holstein breed composition influences donor’s performance. Sixteen Holstein-Gyr crossbred females presenting increased (HG, 71.4 to 87.5% Holstein; n = 9) or decreased (GH, 40.2 to 46.6% Holstein; n = 7) Holstein composition were submitted to three ovum pick up (OPU) sessions. We observed similar (P = 0.2946) antral follicle count between HG and GH donors (24.8 ± 3.2 vs 29.4 ± 2.8 respectively; mean ± SEM). Groups also display similar morphological oocyte grading (Grade I: 0.1 ± 0.1 vs 0.1 ± 0.1 – P = 0.9680; Grade II: 0.9 ± 0.5 vs 1.9 ± 0.5 – P = 0.1942; Grade III, 4.0 ± 1.2 vs 7.2 ± 1.4 – P = 0.1047, HG vs GH respectively; mean ± SEM). Additionally, the proportion of viable oocyte was similar between HG and GH groups (27.8% vs 31.9%, respectively, P = 0.3500) and oocyte lipid area fraction (6.8% vs 9.5%, respectively; P = 0.1539). Our results indicate that the individual variation has more influence than breed composition of crossbred oocyte donors.

Breed composition does not influence the performance of Holstein-Gyr crossbred as oocyte donors for OPU/IVP

Holstein-Gyr crossbred cattle are strategic for dairy systems in tropical countries, since they combine milk yield genetics with adaptability to tropical climate. However, Holstein (Bos taurus) and Gyr (Bos indicus) breeds present remarkable differences regarding reproductive physiology. Brazil stands out as the worlds largest user of embryo in vitro production (IVP) in bovine, and the use of this technique is increasing in dairy systems. As Holstein-Gyr crossbreds are important oocyte donors for IVP, the present work aimed at investigating whether increased Gyr or Holstein breed composition influences donors performance. Sixteen Holstein-Gyr crossbred females presenting increased (HG, 71.4 to 87.5% Holstein; n = 9) or decreased (GH, 40.2 to 46.6% Holstein; n = 7) Holstein composition were submitted to three ovum pick up (OPU) sessions. We observed similar (P = 0.2946) antral follicle count between HG and GH donors (24.8 ± 3.2 vs 29.4 ± 2.8 respectively; mean ± SEM). Groups also display similar morphological oocyte grading (Grade I: 0.1 ± 0.1 vs 0.1 ± 0.1 P = 0.9680; Grade II: 0.9 ± 0.5 vs 1.9 ± 0.5 P = 0.1942; Grade III, 4.0 ± 1.2 vs 7.2 ± 1.4 P = 0.1047, HG vs GH respectively; mean ± SEM). Additionally, the proportion of viable oocyte was similar between HG and GH groups (27.8% vs 31.9%, respectively, P = 0.3500) and oocyte lipid area fraction (6.8% vs 9.5%, respectively; P = 0.1539). Our results indicate that the individual variation has more influence than breed composition of crossbred oocyte donors.(AU)

Spatial variability of chemical attributes of soil cropped with soybean under no-tillage / Variabilidade espacial de atributos químicos do solo cultivado com soja sob plantio direto

During the 2012/2013 agricultural year, in the city of Campo Novo do Parecis, MT, the study aimed analyze the spatial variability of soybean and of the fertility attributes of Typic Tropudox under no-tillage. The sampling grid for data collect was installed in an area of 5.0 ha. The productivity of soybeans, plant population, organic matter, P, Ca+2, Mg+2, K+ , Al+3, H+ + Al+3, pH (CaCl2), sum bases, cation exchange capacity and base saturation were evaluated. A classic descriptive analysis was carried out with the help of the SAS statistical software, correlation and regression analysis with Excel and semivariograms were then modeled for all attributes, giving the respective cross-validations and kriging charts with the GS+ 7.0 software. Most surveyed attributes presented spatial dependence, and modeled their semivariograms by predominantly Gaussian type. The geostatistical ranges used for the attributes analyzed should not be less than 43.8 m, being the distance at which the attribute values are related to each other. The study of the variability of soil attributes and the adoption of techniques that help in the management of soil, such as geostatistics, is essential to proper plant development.

Durante o ano agrícola de 2012/2013, no município de Campo Novo do Parecis, MT, objetivou-se analisar a variabilidade espacial de atributos da soja e da fertilidade num Latossolo Vermelho distrófico típico cultivado sob plantio direto. Foi instalada a malha de amostragem para a coleta de dados numa área de 5,0 ha. Foram avaliadas a produtividade de grãos de soja, população de plantas, matéria orgânica, P, Ca+2, Mg+2, K+ , Al+3, H+ + Al+3, pH (CaCl2), soma de bases, capacidade de troca catiônica e saturação por bases. Efetuou-se a análise descritiva clássica, com auxílio do software estatístico SAS, análise de correlação e regressão com o Excel, sendo modelados semivariogramas para todos os atributos, obtendo-se as respectivas validações cruzadas e mapas de krigagens com o GS+ 7.0. A maior parte dos atributos pesquisados apresentou dependência espacial, sendo possível modelar seus respectivos semivariogramas, predominantemente do tipo gaussiano. Os alcances geoestatísticos utilizados para os atributos analisados não deverão ser inferiores a 43,8 m, por serem a distância na qual os valores dos atributos estão relacionados entre si. O estudo da variabilidade dos atributos do solo bem como a adoção de técnicas que auxiliem no manejo do solo, como a geoestatística, é essencial ao adequado desenvolvimento vegetal.

Spatial variability of chemical attributes of soil cropped with soybean under no-tillage / Variabilidade espacial de atributos químicos do solo cultivado com soja sob plantio direto

During the 2012/2013 agricultural year, in the city of Campo Novo do Parecis, MT, the study aimed analyze the spatial variability of soybean and of the fertility attributes of Typic Tropudox under no-tillage. The sampling grid for data collect was installed in an area of 5.0 ha. The productivity of soybeans, plant population, organic matter, P, Ca+2, Mg+2, K+ , Al+3, H+ + Al+3, pH (CaCl2), sum bases, cation exchange capacity and base saturation were evaluated. A classic descriptive analysis was carried out with the help of the SAS statistical software, correlation and regression analysis with Excel and semivariograms were then modeled for all attributes, giving the respective cross-validations and kriging charts with the GS+ 7.0 software. Most surveyed attributes presented spatial dependence, and modeled their semivariograms by predominantly Gaussian type. The geostatistical ranges used for the attributes analyzed should not be less than 43.8 m, being the distance at which the attribute values are related to each other. The study of the variability of soil attributes and the adoption of techniques that help in the management of soil, such as geostatistics, is essential to proper plant development.(AU)

Durante o ano agrícola de 2012/2013, no município de Campo Novo do Parecis, MT, objetivou-se analisar a variabilidade espacial de atributos da soja e da fertilidade num Latossolo Vermelho distrófico típico cultivado sob plantio direto. Foi instalada a malha de amostragem para a coleta de dados numa área de 5,0 ha. Foram avaliadas a produtividade de grãos de soja, população de plantas, matéria orgânica, P, Ca+2, Mg+2, K+ , Al+3, H+ + Al+3, pH (CaCl2), soma de bases, capacidade de troca catiônica e saturação por bases. Efetuou-se a análise descritiva clássica, com auxílio do software estatístico SAS, análise de correlação e regressão com o Excel, sendo modelados semivariogramas para todos os atributos, obtendo-se as respectivas validações cruzadas e mapas de krigagens com o GS+ 7.0. A maior parte dos atributos pesquisados apresentou dependência espacial, sendo possível modelar seus respectivos semivariogramas, predominantemente do tipo gaussiano. Os alcances geoestatísticos utilizados para os atributos analisados não deverão ser inferiores a 43,8 m, por serem a distância na qual os valores dos atributos estão relacionados entre si. O estudo da variabilidade dos atributos do solo bem como a adoção de técnicas que auxiliem no manejo do solo, como a geoestatística, é essencial ao adequado desenvolvimento vegetal.(AU)

Anurofauna da bacia do Rio Tijuco, Minas Gerais, Brasil e sua relação com taxocenoses de anfíbios do Cerrado e suas transições / Anurofauna from the Tijuco River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil and its relationship with assemblages of amphibians from Cerrado and their transitions

The suppression of natural landscapes has decimated populations and/or reduced the area of occurrence of many anuran amphibian species. This is the scenario of Cerrado, given its great economic potential and the decay speed through human activities. For this reason, species inventories are extremely needed in such regions, where the dispersion activity and reproduction might be beset depending on the degree of environmental alteration. This study aims to determine the richness and the diversity of reproductive modes of the anurofauna from the Tijuco River basin and to compare the composition of the assemblage from such region with assemblages of amphibians previously studied from other regions within the biomes Cerrado and Mesophytic Semideciduous Forest. The study was carried out along the Tijuco River basin in and approximate extension of 80 km. We conduct four sampling methods where 40 species of anurans belonging to six families were registered. This corresponds to 20% of the species of anurans known to Cerrado. The landscape conditions favor species more tolerant and adapted to dry weather, which reflects an assemblage with lower proportions of reproductive modes and higher occurrence of generalized modes, dependent of water or adapted against desiccation. The comparison with 15 different localities revealed that the anurofauna from Cerrado is unique, with low taxonomic similarity to the adjacent ecosystems. The diversity of habitats and the expressive richness of species make the Tijuco River basin very important for the conservation of the anurofauna from the biome Cerrado.(AU)

A supressão de paisagens naturais tem dizimado populações e/ou reduzido a área de ocorrência de muitas espécies de anuros, caso do Cerrado, dado o grande potencial econômico e velocidade de descaracterização por atividades humanas. Por este motivo, inventários de espécies são extremamente necessários nessas regiões que dependendo do grau de alteração ambiental podem prejudicar as atividades de dispersão e reprodução dos anuros. Este estudo tem por objetivo determinar a riqueza e a diversidade de modos reprodutivos da anurofauna da bacia do Rio Tijuco e comparar a composição da taxocenose dessa região com taxocenoses de anfíbios de outras regiões do bioma Cerrado e da floresta estacional semidecidual anteriormente estudadas. O estudo foi desenvolvido ao longo da bacia do Rio Tijuco numa extensão aproximada de 80 km. Através de quatro métodos de amostragem, foram registradas 40 espécies de anuros pertencentes a seis famílias, o que corresponde a 20% das espécies de anuros registradas para o Cerrado. As condições da paisagem favorecem espécies mais tolerantes e adaptadas ao clima mais seco, o que reflete numa taxocenose que possui baixa proporção de modos reprodutivos e uma elevada representatividade de modos generalizados, dependentes de água ou com adaptações contra dessecação. Em comparação com outras 15 localidades verificou-se que a anurofauna do Cerrado é típica, com baixa similaridade taxonômica com ecossistemas adjacentes. A diversidade de habitats e a expressiva riqueza de espécies tornam a bacia do Rio Tijuco de grande importância para a conservação da anurofauna do bioma Cerrado.(AU)

Anurofauna da bacia do Rio Tijuco, Minas Gerais, Brasil e sua relação com taxocenoses de anfíbios do Cerrado e suas transições / Anurofauna from the Tijuco River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil and its relationship with assemblages of amphibians from Cerrado and their transitions

The suppression of natural landscapes has decimated populations and/or reduced the area of occurrence of many anuran amphibian species. This is the scenario of Cerrado, given its great economic potential and the decay speed through human activities. For this reason, species inventories are extremely needed in such regions, where the dispersion activity and reproduction might be beset depending on the degree of environmental alteration. This study aims to determine the richness and the diversity of reproductive modes of the anurofauna from the Tijuco River basin and to compare the composition of the assemblage from such region with assemblages of amphibians previously studied from other regions within the biomes Cerrado and Mesophytic Semideciduous Forest. The study was carried out along the Tijuco River basin in and approximate extension of 80 km. We conduct four sampling methods where 40 species of anurans belonging to six families were registered. This corresponds to 20% of the species of anurans known to Cerrado. The landscape conditions favor species more tolerant and adapted to dry weather, which reflects an assemblage with lower proportions of reproductive modes and higher occurrence of generalized modes, dependent of water or adapted against desiccation. The comparison with 15 different localities revealed that the anurofauna from Cerrado is unique, with low taxonomic similarity to the adjacent ecosystems. The diversity of habitats and the expressive richness of species make the Tijuco River basin very important for the conservation of the anurofauna from the biome Cerrado.

A supressão de paisagens naturais tem dizimado populações e/ou reduzido a área de ocorrência de muitas espécies de anuros, caso do Cerrado, dado o grande potencial econômico e velocidade de descaracterização por atividades humanas. Por este motivo, inventários de espécies são extremamente necessários nessas regiões que dependendo do grau de alteração ambiental podem prejudicar as atividades de dispersão e reprodução dos anuros. Este estudo tem por objetivo determinar a riqueza e a diversidade de modos reprodutivos da anurofauna da bacia do Rio Tijuco e comparar a composição da taxocenose dessa região com taxocenoses de anfíbios de outras regiões do bioma Cerrado e da floresta estacional semidecidual anteriormente estudadas. O estudo foi desenvolvido ao longo da bacia do Rio Tijuco numa extensão aproximada de 80 km. Através de quatro métodos de amostragem, foram registradas 40 espécies de anuros pertencentes a seis famílias, o que corresponde a 20% das espécies de anuros registradas para o Cerrado. As condições da paisagem favorecem espécies mais tolerantes e adaptadas ao clima mais seco, o que reflete numa taxocenose que possui baixa proporção de modos reprodutivos e uma elevada representatividade de modos generalizados, dependentes de água ou com adaptações contra dessecação. Em comparação com outras 15 localidades verificou-se que a anurofauna do Cerrado é típica, com baixa similaridade taxonômica com ecossistemas adjacentes. A diversidade de habitats e a expressiva riqueza de espécies tornam a bacia do Rio Tijuco de grande importância para a conservação da anurofauna do bioma Cerrado.

Production and partial characterization of serine and metallo peptidases secreted by Aspergillus fumigatus Fresenius in submerged and solid state fermentatio

Enzyme production varies in different fermentation systems. Enzyme expression in different fermentation systems yields important information for improving our understanding of enzymatic production induction. Comparative studies between solid-state fermentation (SSF) using agro-industrial waste wheat bran and submerged fermentation (SmF) using synthetic media were carried out to determinate the best parameters for peptidase production by the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus Fresen. Variables tested include: the concentration of carbon and protein nitrogen sources, the size of the inoculum, the pH of the media, temperature, and the length of the fermentation process. The best peptidase production during SSF was obtained after 96 hours using wheat bran at 30 ºC with an inoculum of 1 x 10(6) spores and yielded 1500 active units (UµmL). The best peptidase production using SmF was obtained after periods of 72 and 96 hours of fermentation in media containing 0.5% and 0.25% of casein, respectively, at a pH of 6.0 and at 30 ºC and yielded 40 UµmL. We also found examples of catabolite repression of peptidase production under SmF conditions. Biochemical characterization of the peptidases produced by both fermentative processes showed optimum activity at pH 8.0 and 50 ºC, and also showed that their proteolytic activity is modulated by surfactants. The enzymatic inhibition profile using phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) in SmF and SSF indicated that both fermentative processes produced a serine peptidase. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of the ethylene-diaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelating agent on the peptidase produced by SmF indicated that this fermentative process also produced a metallopeptidase.(AU)

Selection of thermophilic and thermotolerant fungi for the production of cellulases and xylanases under solid-state fermentation

Twenty-seven thermophilic and thermotolerant fungal strains were isolated from soil, decaying organic matter and sugarcane piles based on their ability to grow at 45ºC on medium containing corn straw and cardboard as carbon sources. These fungi were identified in the genera Aspergillus, Thermomyces, Myceliophthora, Thermomucor and Candida. The majority of the isolated strains produced xylanase and cellulases under solid state fermentation (SSF). The highest cellulase and xylanase productions were obtained by the cultivation of the strains identified as Aspergillus fumigatus M.7.1 and Myceliophthora thermophila M.7.7. The enzymes from these strains exhibited maximum activity at pH 5.0 and at 60 and 70ºC. The endo-glucanase from A. fumigatus was stable from 40ºC to 65ºC and both endo-glucanase and xylanase from M. thermophila were stable in this temperature range when in absence of substrate. The enzymes were stable from pH 4.0 to 9.0.

Leaf-cutting ant faecal fluid and mandibular gland secretion: effects on microfungi spore germination

The mandibular gland secretion (MGS) and the faecal fluid (FF) of the leaf-cutting ant Atta sexdens rubropilosa Forel affected the spore germination of selected microfungi isolated from nests of this insect. MGS was more effective than the FF, completely inhibiting the spore germination of four out of six microfungi species.

O fluído fecal (FF) e a secreção da glândula mandibular (MGS) de operárias da formiga cortadeira Atta sexdens rubropilosa Forel afetaram a germinação dos esporos de microfungos isolados dos formigueiros. MGS foi mais eficiente que FF, inibindo quatro espécies de microfungos dentre as seis estudadas.

Caracterização da população de ectoparasitos em cães de núcleos de expansão urbana de Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brasil

The present work studied the characterization of ectoparasites on dogs in the nucleus of expansão urbana of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The collections were conducted from July to September 2003, examining 101 dogs of no defined breed. The ectoparasites were collected through visual and tactile inspection of the animals' bodies, and were then placed in bottles with 70° GL ethanol and identified under a stereomicroscope. Specimens were clarified and mounted on slides for analysis under a photonic microscope. Among the siphonaptera, Ctenocephalides felis was the most prevalent (64.35%), with mean intensity of 6.12 ± 5.37 siphonaptera/dog, followed by Rhopalopsyllus lutzi (3.96%), a hybrid of C. felis X C. canis (1.98%), and Tunga penetrans (1.98%). The only species of phthiraptera found was Trichodectes canis (7.92%), with 1.3 ± 0.51 phthiraptera/dog. Among the ixodidae, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was the most prevalent species (49.50%), with a mean intensity of 6.44 ± 10.2 ixodidae/dog, followed by Amblyomma cajennense (3.96%), Boophilus microplus (2.97%), A. ovale (1%) and A. aureolatum (1%). The ixodid nymphs were separated into aAmblyomminae nymphs (58.41%), with 10.11 ± 10.09 nymphs/dog, and Rhipicephalinae nymphs ¹(24.75%), with 2.64 ± 3.25 nymphs/dog. Ixodid larvae were found on 3.96 % of the dogs.

No presente trabalho caracterizou-se a população de ectoparasitos em cães de núcleo de expansão urbana de Juiz de Fora, MG. As coletas foram realizadas de julho a setembro de 2003, examinando-se 101 cães SRD (sem raça definida). Os ectoparasitos foram coletados através de inspeção visual e tátil dos animais e acondicionados em frascos com etanol 70°GL e identificados sob estereoscopia. Espécimes foram clarificados e montados para análise em microscopia fotônica. Dentre os sifonápteros, Ctenocephalides felis foi mais prevalente (64,35%) com intensidade média de 6,12 ± 5,37 sifonápteros/cão, seguido por Rhopalopsyllus lutzi (3,96%), híbrida C. felis X C. canis (1,98%), Tunga penetrans (1,98%). Aúnica espécie de fitiráptero encontrada foi Trichodectes canis (7,92%) com 1,3 ± 0,51 fitiráptero/cão. Dentre os ixodídeos, Rhipicephalus sanguineus foi a espécie mais prevalente (49,50%) com intensidade média de 6,44 ± 10,2 ixodídeos/ cão, seguido por Amblyomma cajennense (3,96%), Boophilus microplus (2,97%), A. ovale (1%) e A. aureolatum (1%). As ninfas de ixodídeos foram separadas em ninfas de Amblyomminae (58,41%) com 10,11 ± 10,09 ninfas/cão e ninfas Rhipicephalinae (24,75%) com 2,64 ± 3,25 ninfas/cão. Em 3,96 % dos cães foram encontradas larvas de ixodídeo.

Heavy metal resistance of microorganisms isolated from coal mining environments of Santa Catarina

The coal mining activity is characterized by the generation of large amount of by-products. One of them is pyrite, which tends to acidify the water, solubilizing heavy metals. As a consequence the environment becomes acid and rich in heavy metals, selecting microorganisms able to survive in this condition, which are of great interest as bioremediation agents. This work describes the isolation and characterization of microorganisms from a coal mining area in Santa Catarina. These microorganisms comprised bacteria, fungi and yeasts resistant to zinc, nickel and cadmium.

A atividade de mineração do carvão é responsável pela geração de diferentes sub-produtos. Entre esses, está a pirita que acidifica a água e acelera o processo de solubilização de metais. Como conseqüência, o ambiente torna-se ácido e rico em metais pesados, os quais selecionam os microrganismos capazes de sobreviver nestas condições. Esses microrganismos podem, por sua vez, serem empregados como agentes para a biorremediação de áreas contaminadas com metais pesados. No presente trabalho é descrito o isolamento e a caracterização de bactérias, fungos e leveduras resistentes aos metais zinco, níquel e cádmio.