A new approach to mark termites (Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar) Blattodea: Isoptera) for laboratory bioassays / Uma nova abordagem de marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios de laboratório

Behavioral lab bioassays involving termites must be promptly performed to allow intended observations prior to death from dissecation, typical of these soft-bodied insects. To this end, topic markers have been proposed as an alternative to histological stains which, while not always toxic are inevitably lengthy to apply. Among recommended topic markers, gouache is easy to apply, dries out quickly, but it is known affect termites in the long run, being suitable only to short-term bioassays. Its alternative, colored glue, is also easy to apply, but it takes long to dry and it is too dense and heavy, being thus prone to affect termite walking patterns. Here we tested a mix of gouache and colored glue aiming to combine the qualities of both into a suitable topical marker for Cornitermes cumulans termites. Similar patterns of survival presented by marked and unmarked termites ruled out concerns about toxicity of this mixture. Such results were consistent across distinct group densities evidencing that the mixture does not interfere with, nor it is affected by, crowding effects. Because crowding regulates interindividual interactions and these underlie most behaviors, the mixture can be thought to be suitable to behavioral studies. We argue that this 1:2 glue:gouache mixture is an excellent alternative to mark termites for lab bioassays. Being atoxic, cheap, easy to apply, and non-invasive, this mixture may happen to be useful not only for termites but also in bioassaying other similarly soft-bodied insects.

Bioensaios comportamentais em laboratório com cupins devem ser realizados rapidamente a fim de garantir observações antes da morte por dissecação, típico desses insetos de corpo mole. Para este fim, marcadores tópicos têm sido propostos como uma alternativa para marcadores histológicos que, embora nem sempre tóxico, possuem uma aplicação demorada. Entre os marcadores tópicos recomendados, tinta guache é de fácil aplicação, rápida secagem, porém afeta os cupins em bioensaios longos, sendo adequado apenas para bioensaios curtos. Sua alternativa, cola colorida, também é de fácil aplicação mas leva muito tempo para secar e é muito denso e pesado, afetando os padrões de caminhamento dos cupins. No presente estudo, nós testamos uma mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida objetivando combinar as qualidades de ambos os marcadores tópicos em um marcador tópico adequado para Cornitermes cumulans. Padrões similares de sobrevivência entre cupins marcados e controle indicam a ausência de toxicidade na mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida. Tais resultados são consistentes em grupos de densidades distintas, o que comprova que a mistura não interfere, nem sofre efeitos de aglomeração. Uma vez que a aglomeração regula as interações inter-individuais e afetam a maioria dos comportamentos, a mistura pode ser adequada para estudos comportamentais. Nós argumentamos que a mistura de tinta guache e cola (1:2) é uma excelente alternativa como marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios em laboratório. Sendo atóxico, barato, fácil de aplicar e não invasivo, esta mistura pode ser útil não só para os cupins, mas também em bioensaios com outros insetos de corpo mole.

A new approach to mark termites (Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar) Blattodea: Isoptera) for laboratory bioassays

Abstract Behavioral lab bioassays involving termites must be promptly performed to allow intended observations prior to death from dissecation, typical of these soft-bodied insects. To this end, topic markers have been proposed as an alternative to histological stains which, while not always toxic are inevitably lengthy to apply. Among recommended topic markers, gouache is easy to apply, dries out quickly, but it is known affect termites in the long run, being suitable only to short-term bioassays. Its alternative, colored glue, is also easy to apply, but it takes long to dry and it is too dense and heavy, being thus prone to affect termite walking patterns. Here we tested a mix of gouache and colored glue aiming to combine the qualities of both into a suitable topical marker for Cornitermes cumulans termites. Similar patterns of survival presented by marked and unmarked termites ruled out concerns about toxicity of this mixture. Such results were consistent across distinct group densities evidencing that the mixture does not interfere with, nor it is affected by, crowding effects. Because crowding regulates interindividual interactions and these underlie most behaviors, the mixture can be thought to be suitable to behavioral studies. We argue that this 1:2 glue:gouache mixture is an excellent alternative to mark termites for lab bioassays. Being atoxic, cheap, easy to apply, and non-invasive, this mixture may happen to be useful not only for termites but also in bioassaying other similarly soft-bodied insects.

Resumo Bioensaios comportamentais em laboratório com cupins devem ser realizados rapidamente a fim de garantir observações antes da morte por dissecação, típico desses insetos de corpo mole. Para este fim, marcadores tópicos têm sido propostos como uma alternativa para marcadores histológicos que, embora nem sempre tóxico, possuem uma aplicação demorada. Entre os marcadores tópicos recomendados, tinta guache é de fácil aplicação, rápida secagem, porém afeta os cupins em bioensaios longos, sendo adequado apenas para bioensaios curtos. Sua alternativa, cola colorida, também é de fácil aplicação mas leva muito tempo para secar e é muito denso e pesado, afetando os padrões de caminhamento dos cupins. No presente estudo, nós testamos uma mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida objetivando combinar as qualidades de ambos os marcadores tópicos em um marcador tópico adequado para Cornitermes cumulans. Padrões similares de sobrevivência entre cupins marcados e controle indicam a ausência de toxicidade na mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida. Tais resultados são consistentes em grupos de densidades distintas, o que comprova que a mistura não interfere, nem sofre efeitos de aglomeração. Uma vez que a aglomeração regula as interações inter-individuais e afetam a maioria dos comportamentos, a mistura pode ser adequada para estudos comportamentais. Nós argumentamos que a mistura de tinta guache e cola (1:2) é uma excelente alternativa como marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios em laboratório. Sendo atóxico, barato, fácil de aplicar e não invasivo, esta mistura pode ser útil não só para os cupins, mas também em bioensaios com outros insetos de corpo mole.

A new approach to mark termites (Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar) Blattodea: Isoptera) for laboratory bioassays / Uma nova abordagem de marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios de laboratório

Abstract Behavioral lab bioassays involving termites must be promptly performed to allow intended observations prior to death from dissecation, typical of these soft-bodied insects. To this end, topic markers have been proposed as an alternative to histological stains which, while not always toxic are inevitably lengthy to apply. Among recommended topic markers, gouache is easy to apply, dries out quickly, but it is known affect termites in the long run, being suitable only to short-term bioassays. Its alternative, colored glue, is also easy to apply, but it takes long to dry and it is too dense and heavy, being thus prone to affect termite walking patterns. Here we tested a mix of gouache and colored glue aiming to combine the qualities of both into a suitable topical marker for Cornitermes cumulans termites. Similar patterns of survival presented by marked and unmarked termites ruled out concerns about toxicity of this mixture. Such results were consistent across distinct group densities evidencing that the mixture does not interfere with, nor it is affected by, crowding effects. Because crowding regulates interindividual interactions and these underlie most behaviors, the mixture can be thought to be suitable to behavioral studies. We argue that this 1:2 glue:gouache mixture is an excellent alternative to mark termites for lab bioassays. Being atoxic, cheap, easy to apply, and non-invasive, this mixture may happen to be useful not only for termites but also in bioassaying other similarly soft-bodied insects.

Resumo Bioensaios comportamentais em laboratório com cupins devem ser realizados rapidamente a fim de garantir observações antes da morte por dissecação, típico desses insetos de corpo mole. Para este fim, marcadores tópicos têm sido propostos como uma alternativa para marcadores histológicos que, embora nem sempre tóxico, possuem uma aplicação demorada. Entre os marcadores tópicos recomendados, tinta guache é de fácil aplicação, rápida secagem, porém afeta os cupins em bioensaios longos, sendo adequado apenas para bioensaios curtos. Sua alternativa, cola colorida, também é de fácil aplicação mas leva muito tempo para secar e é muito denso e pesado, afetando os padrões de caminhamento dos cupins. No presente estudo, nós testamos uma mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida objetivando combinar as qualidades de ambos os marcadores tópicos em um marcador tópico adequado para Cornitermes cumulans. Padrões similares de sobrevivência entre cupins marcados e controle indicam a ausência de toxicidade na mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida. Tais resultados são consistentes em grupos de densidades distintas, o que comprova que a mistura não interfere, nem sofre efeitos de aglomeração. Uma vez que a aglomeração regula as interações inter-individuais e afetam a maioria dos comportamentos, a mistura pode ser adequada para estudos comportamentais. Nós argumentamos que a mistura de tinta guache e cola (1:2) é uma excelente alternativa como marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios em laboratório. Sendo atóxico, barato, fácil de aplicar e não invasivo, esta mistura pode ser útil não só para os cupins, mas também em bioensaios com outros insetos de corpo mole.

A new approach to mark termites (Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar) Blattodea: Isoptera) for laboratory bioassays / Uma nova abordagem de marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios de laboratório

Behavioral lab bioassays involving termites must be promptly performed to allow intended observations prior to death from dissecation, typical of these soft-bodied insects. To this end, topic markers have been proposed as an alternative to histological stains which, while not always toxic are inevitably lengthy to apply. Among recommended topic markers, gouache is easy to apply, dries out quickly, but it is known affect termites in the long run, being suitable only to short-term bioassays. Its alternative, colored glue, is also easy to apply, but it takes long to dry and it is too dense and heavy, being thus prone to affect termite walking patterns. Here we tested a mix of gouache and colored glue aiming to combine the qualities of both into a suitable topical marker for Cornitermes cumulans termites. Similar patterns of survival presented by marked and unmarked termites ruled out concerns about toxicity of this mixture. Such results were consistent across distinct group densities evidencing that the mixture does not interfere with, nor it is affected by, crowding effects. Because crowding regulates interindividual interactions and these underlie most behaviors, the mixture can be thought to be suitable to behavioral studies. We argue that this 1:2 glue:gouache mixture is an excellent alternative to mark termites for lab bioassays. Being atoxic, cheap, easy to apply, and non-invasive, this mixture may happen to be useful not only for termites but also in bioassaying other similarly soft-bodied insects.(AU)

Bioensaios comportamentais em laboratório com cupins devem ser realizados rapidamente a fim de garantir observações antes da morte por dissecação, típico desses insetos de corpo mole. Para este fim, marcadores tópicos têm sido propostos como uma alternativa para marcadores histológicos que, embora nem sempre tóxico, possuem uma aplicação demorada. Entre os marcadores tópicos recomendados, tinta guache é de fácil aplicação, rápida secagem, porém afeta os cupins em bioensaios longos, sendo adequado apenas para bioensaios curtos. Sua alternativa, cola colorida, também é de fácil aplicação mas leva muito tempo para secar e é muito denso e pesado, afetando os padrões de caminhamento dos cupins. No presente estudo, nós testamos uma mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida objetivando combinar as qualidades de ambos os marcadores tópicos em um marcador tópico adequado para Cornitermes cumulans. Padrões similares de sobrevivência entre cupins marcados e controle indicam a ausência de toxicidade na mistura de tinta guache e cola colorida. Tais resultados são consistentes em grupos de densidades distintas, o que comprova que a mistura não interfere, nem sofre efeitos de aglomeração. Uma vez que a aglomeração regula as interações inter-individuais e afetam a maioria dos comportamentos, a mistura pode ser adequada para estudos comportamentais. Nós argumentamos que a mistura de tinta guache e cola (1:2) é uma excelente alternativa como marcador tópico em cupins para bioensaios em laboratório. Sendo atóxico, barato, fácil de aplicar e não invasivo, esta mistura pode ser útil não só para os cupins, mas também em bioensaios com outros insetos de corpo mole.(AU)

Forestry performance of Bertholletia excels Humn. & Bonpl Lecythidaceae under different fertilizers after two years of planting / Desempenho silvicultural de Bertholletia excelsa Humn. & Bonpl Lecythidaceae sob diferentes adubações após dois anos de plantio

Bertholletia excels is a species is frequently used in reforestation due to its high degree of adaptability and its excellent initial growth. Thus, this work aimed to study the growth of B.excelsa according to different types and concentrations of fertilization, seeking to contribute to the silvicultural development of this species. For this purpose, seedlings of B. excelsa were planted in the Madre de Dios region on a property near the province of Puerto Maldonado in Peru. The seedlings were selected when they presented an average height of 22 cm for all treatments, being T1: Dolomite + SPT; T2: Dolomite + NPK; T3: Dolomite + SPT + Agricultural plaster; T4: Dolomite + NPK + Agricultural plaster, and T5: A control treatment without fertilization modifications. The experimental design was randomized blocks with five treatments and four replicates of six seedlings each. Once the ANOVA assumptions were met, the data were subjected to analysis of variance, with significant differences between the data, the means were compared using the Tukey test (p <0.05). Survival (%) was evaluated from the number of live individuals in two years of measurement. The treatment T4 presented great silvicultural potential, as the fertilization provided the development in height and diameter. Treatments T1 and T3 did not perform well when compared to the control, presenting the lowest growth rates in height and diameter, and the lowest survival rate. The control treatment did not differ statistically from T4, thus concluding that pre-plant fertilization of B. excelsa is not necessary.

A espécie Bertholletia excelsa é frequentemente utilizada em reflorestamentos pelo alto grau de adaptabilidade e seu ótimo crescimento inicial. Com isso, esse trabalho objetivou estudar o crescimento de B. excelsa de acordo com diferentes tipos e concentrações de adubação, buscando contribuir para o desenvolvimento silvicultural dessa espécie. Para isso, foram plantadas mudas de Bertholletia excelsa na região de Madre de Dios em uma propriedade próxima a província de Puerto Maldonadono Peru. As mudas foram selecionadas quando apresentaram altura média de 22 cm para todos os tratamentos, sendo T1: Dolomita + SPT; T2: Dolomita + NPK; T3: Dolomita + SPT + Gesso agrícola; T4: Dolomita + NPK + Gesso agrícola e o tratamento controle sem modificações por adubação. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos ao acaso com cinco tratamentos e quatro repetições de 6 plântulas cada. Uma vez atendidos os pressupostos da ANOVA, os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância, havendo diferenças significativas entre os dados, as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey (p <0,05). A sobrevivência (%) foi avaliada a partir do número de indivíduos vivos em dois anos de medição. O tratamento T4 apresentou grande potencial silvicultural pelo que a adubação proporcionou ao desenvolvimento em altura e em diâmetro. Os tratamentos T1 e T3 não obtiveram um bom desempenho quando comparado ao controle, apresentando as menores taxas de crescimento em altura e em diâmetro, e as menores taxa de sobrevivência. O tratamento controle obteve um bom resultado não diferindo estatisticamente de T4, assim concluindo que não é necessário a adubação pré-plantiode B.excelsa.

Investigating the leading drivers of organic farming: a survival analysis / Investigando as principais formas de impulsionar a agricultura orgânica: uma análise de sobrevivência

This research evaluated farmers' decisions to adopt organic farming. It was first introduced by developed countries to minimize environmental impacts originated by intensive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to enhance production yield. Although, organic farming offers environmentally sound methodologies for crop production, but Asian farmers are reluctant to adopt organic farming. In this study, a survival analysis (SA) was employed to determine the reasons for and the time is taken by farmers to adopt organic agriculture. This research studied the farmers' goals, agricultural policies, and attitude towards risk, as covariates in the survival analysis. A multiple criteria decision-making method based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to evaluate the farmers' goals. Data were collected from agricultural farms located in three districts in Punjab, Pakistan. A questionnaire was used to collect empirical evidence. This study reported that the farmers' goals were crucial to their acceptance of organic farming; furthermore, young farmers and farmers with risk-inclined attitudes were more prone to adopting organic farming. The study also determined that change in policy and introduce special package for organic agriculture can encouraged the adoption of organic methods.

O objetivo do presente estudo é avaliar as decisões dos agricultores de adotar a agricultura orgânica. Foi introduzido pela primeira vez por países desenvolvidos para minimizar os impactos ambientais originados pelo uso intensivo de fertilizantes sintéticos e pesticidas para aumentar o rendimento da produção. Embora a agricultura orgânica ofereça metodologias ambientalmente corretas para a produção agrícola, os agricultores asiáticos relutam em adotar a agricultura orgânica. Neste estudo, uma análise de sobrevivência (SA) foi empregada para determinar os motivos e o tempo que os agricultores levam para adotar a agricultura orgânica. Esta pesquisa estudou os objetivos dos agricultores, as políticas agrícolas e a atitude em relação ao risco, como covariáveis na análise de sobrevivência. Um método de tomada de decisão de múltiplos critérios com base no Processo de Hierarquia Analítica foi usado para avaliar os objetivos dos agricultores. Os dados foram coletados em fazendas agrícolas localizadas em três distritos de Punjab, Paquistão. Um questionário foi usado para coletar evidências empíricas. Este estudo descobriu que os objetivos dos agricultores eram cruciais para aceitação da agricultura orgânica; além disso, jovens agricultores e agricultores com atitudes inclinadas ao risco eram mais propensos a adotar a agricultura orgânica. O estudo também determinou que a mudança na política e a introdução de um pacote especial para a agricultura orgânica podem estimular a adoção de métodos orgânicos.

The role of behavioral, autonomous, and adaptive processes in the rodent's thermoregulation

Meteorological variables are the main abiotic factors that directly influence reactions in rodent metabolism, activating the action of thermoregulatory mechanisms aimed at homeostasis and can involve several factors that work together to dissipate or conserve body heat. In this scenario, we aimed to address, synthetically, the main means that rodents have to adapt and survive faced with the thermoregulatory challenges posed by the environment in which they live. Among these processes, behavioral changes can occur in water and food intake, as well as voluntary displacement to environments offering greater thermal comfort. The autonomic processes involve innate mechanisms that act quickly to facilitate thermal exchange, such as sweating, respiratory evaporation, and changes in peripheral blood flow. Adaptation involves evolutionary processes that, in the long run, alter the morphophysiological characteristics of the epidermis and coat, in order to conserve or dissipate heat. Knowledge of the role of these processes in adaptive physiology is essential to understand how the thermal environment affects rodents and how deleterious effects are mitigated.(AU)

The role of behavioral, autonomous, and adaptive processes in the rodent's thermoregulation

Meteorological variables are the main abiotic factors that directly influence reactions in rodent metabolism, activating the action of thermoregulatory mechanisms aimed at homeostasis and can involve several factors that work together to dissipate or conserve body heat. In this scenario, we aimed to address, synthetically, the main means that rodents have to adapt and survive faced with the thermoregulatory challenges posed by the environment in which they live. Among these processes, behavioral changes can occur in water and food intake, as well as voluntary displacement to environments offering greater thermal comfort. The autonomic processes involve innate mechanisms that act quickly to facilitate thermal exchange, such as sweating, respiratory evaporation, and changes in peripheral blood flow. Adaptation involves evolutionary processes that, in the long run, alter the morphophysiological characteristics of the epidermis and coat, in order to conserve or dissipate heat. Knowledge of the role of these processes in adaptive physiology is essential to understand how the thermal environment affects rodents and how deleterious effects are mitigated.

Relationship between PD-L1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in canine mammary tumor

Background: Studies pointed out that the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have considerable importance in caninemammary tumor (CMT). On the other hand, cancer cells sometimes find ways to use immune checkpoint proteins as ashield to avoid being identified and attacked by the immune system as programmed death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1). In this study,it was investigated the relationship between PD-L1 expression, stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in caninemammary tumor (CMT), and the association with clinical and pathological characteristics of the tumors.Materials, Methods & Results: PD-L1 expression and TILs were assessed in 23 female dogs with CMT. The tumors weregrouped into simple carcinoma (CA, n = 8) and complex carcinoma (CC, n = 15). Stromal TILs were assessed using twothresholds as TILs-Low representing < 50% of infiltrate within stromal area and TILs-High representing ≥ 50% of stromalarea. Clinicopathological data of CMT was characterized according to key parameters, as well as survival rates. TILs evaluation within tumor stroma revealed that 65.2% (n = 15) of tumors had TILs-Low. PD-L1 expression and stromal TILs weresignificantly associated (P = 0.009). PD-L1 expression was observed in 39% (n = 9) of all tumors of which 17.4% (n = 4)were from CA group and 21.7% (n = 5) were from CC group. PD-L1 expression within TILs was observed in 39% (n =9) of the tumors. PD-L1 in malignant epithelium was present in all lymph node metastasis (n = 5). PD-L1 was associatedwith involvement of regional lymph nodes (P = 0.034). Survival curves demonstrated TILs-Low had higher (P = 0.010)overall survival (OS) compared with TILs-High, and PD-L1+ and PD-L1– (P = 0.06) did not differed. The clinicopathological variables significantly correlated with OS by univariate analysis were the histological grade (P = 0.009), lymphnode involvement (P = 0.004), stromal...

Relationship between PD-L1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in canine mammary tumor

Background: Studies pointed out that the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have considerable importance in caninemammary tumor (CMT). On the other hand, cancer cells sometimes find ways to use immune checkpoint proteins as ashield to avoid being identified and attacked by the immune system as programmed death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1). In this study,it was investigated the relationship between PD-L1 expression, stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in caninemammary tumor (CMT), and the association with clinical and pathological characteristics of the tumors.Materials, Methods & Results: PD-L1 expression and TILs were assessed in 23 female dogs with CMT. The tumors weregrouped into simple carcinoma (CA, n = 8) and complex carcinoma (CC, n = 15). Stromal TILs were assessed using twothresholds as TILs-Low representing < 50% of infiltrate within stromal area and TILs-High representing ≥ 50% of stromalarea. Clinicopathological data of CMT was characterized according to key parameters, as well as survival rates. TILs evaluation within tumor stroma revealed that 65.2% (n = 15) of tumors had TILs-Low. PD-L1 expression and stromal TILs weresignificantly associated (P = 0.009). PD-L1 expression was observed in 39% (n = 9) of all tumors of which 17.4% (n = 4)were from CA group and 21.7% (n = 5) were from CC group. PD-L1 expression within TILs was observed in 39% (n =9) of the tumors. PD-L1 in malignant epithelium was present in all lymph node metastasis (n = 5). PD-L1 was associatedwith involvement of regional lymph nodes (P = 0.034). Survival curves demonstrated TILs-Low had higher (P = 0.010)overall survival (OS) compared with TILs-High, and PD-L1+ and PD-L1(P = 0.06) did not differed. The clinicopathological variables significantly correlated with OS by univariate analysis were the histological grade (P = 0.009), lymphnode involvement (P = 0.004), stromal...(AU)

Reproductive parameters of the Chestnut-capped Blackbird, Chrysomus ruficapilus (Passeriformes: Icteridae), in a natural wetland from southeastern Brazil

The Chestnut-capped Blackbird, Chrysomus ruficapilus (Vieillot, 1819), is a common bird species in flooded areas of South America. Data on its reproductive parameters have been reported mainly for rice paddies from Uruguay and southern Brazil, where reproductive phenology might have been influenced by the chronology of agricultural activities. Here we provide reproductive data for a population in a natural marshland from São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil. A total of 45 active nests were monitored between December 2017 and April 2018. Clutch size was 2.8 ± 0.44. Incubation and nestling periods were respectively 11.8 ± 0.39, and 12.3 ± 0.75 days, and overall nesting success was 65%. The reproductive season lasted about five months, which is longer than that observed in rice paddies from southern Brazil. This suggests that the reproductive phenology has been underestimated before. Although clutch sizes were bigger in our study population than that from rice paddies from southern Brazil, nest survival was higher in the artificial habitat, suggesting that the Chestnut-capped Blackbird can obtain benefits from nesting in artificial habitats.

Reproductive parameters of the Chestnut-capped Blackbird, Chrysomus ruficapilus (Passeriformes: Icteridae), in a natural wetland from southeastern Brazil

The Chestnut-capped Blackbird, Chrysomus ruficapilus (Vieillot, 1819), is a common bird species in flooded areas of South America. Data on its reproductive parameters have been reported mainly for rice paddies from Uruguay and southern Brazil, where reproductive phenology might have been influenced by the chronology of agricultural activities. Here we provide reproductive data for a population in a natural marshland from São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil. A total of 45 active nests were monitored between December 2017 and April 2018. Clutch size was 2.8 ± 0.44. Incubation and nestling periods were respectively 11.8 ± 0.39, and 12.3 ± 0.75 days, and overall nesting success was 65%. The reproductive season lasted about five months, which is longer than that observed in rice paddies from southern Brazil. This suggests that the reproductive phenology has been underestimated before. Although clutch sizes were bigger in our study population than that from rice paddies from southern Brazil, nest survival was higher in the artificial habitat, suggesting that the Chestnut-capped Blackbird can obtain benefits from nesting in artificial habitats.(AU)

Benefits of pentoxifylline for skin flap tissue repair in rats

Purpose To assess the action of pentoxifylline, administered by subcutaneous route, on skin flap tissue repair in rats, and to verify the histological aspects and biomarkers. Methods Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control (CT) and treated with pentoxifylline (P1, P3 and P5). Modified McFarlane technique flap was used. Ten days later, the animals were euthanized and the areas of viable and necrotic tissue were evaluated. Hematoxylin/eosin staining was used to assess the morphometric characteristics of the number of vessels and epithelial thickness. Picrosirius red was used to assess collagen density. VEGF and TGF-beta1 levels on the skin flap and serum of the animals were measured by the ELISA method. Results The macroscopic evaluation of the skin flap dimensions showed reduced necrotic tissue in the pentoxifylline (p < 0.05) treated groups. There was an increase in angiogenesis and reepithelization, demonstrated by analyses with an increased number of vessels (p 0.05), VEGF and epithelial thickness. Fibrogenic effect showed decreased collagen density and TGF-1 in the skin flap and serum. Conclusion The benefits of pentoxifylline administered by subcutaneous route, at dose 100 mg/kg, which was effective to improve the survival of skin flap by acting on tissue repair components, stimulating angiogenesis and reepithelization, in addition to reducing fibrogenesis.(AU)

The influence of splenic tissue on the survival and TCD4 and TCD8 lymphocyte rates in rats subjected to fecal peritonitis induction

Purpose: Comparing survival rates of rats subjected to spleen procedures after fecal peritonitis induction. Assessing changes in TCD4 and CD8 lymphocyte rates before and after the procedures. Correlating animal survival with CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were distributed into 3 groups of ten: spleen manipulation (SM); total splenectomy (TS); subtotal splenectomy with preservation of the inferior pole (IP). Rats were subjected to surgical procedure depending on the group. Seven days after surgery they underwent induction of peritonitis and survival time was recorded. All animals were subjected to two blood collections: before surgery and 70 days after it for TCD4/TCD8 lymphocyte counting. Results: Mean survival time was longer in the IP and SM groups and shorter in the TS group; there was significant difference between them. The comparison of the median number of CD4 did not present changes, whereas the comparison of the median number of CD8 decreased in the SM and IP groups. The correlation between the median number of TCD4 and TCD8 lymphocytes and the animals survival was not significant. Conclusion: The maintenance of splenic tissue contributed to increase the survival of rats and there was a change in the number of TCD8 lymphocytes.(AU)

Growth of radiata pine families in nursery and two years after field establishment

Pinus radiata D. Don is the most widely planted exotic species in Australia, Chile, New Zealand and Spain. In this study, growth and survival of P. radiata were compared in 30 open pollinated families grown under two contrasting watering regimes in nursery (well-watered cf. water-stress conditions) and planted on a drought-prone site with Mediterranean climate in central Chile. This study assessed phenotypic plasticity in growth and survival at nursery stage and two years after establishment in the field. Family plasticity at nursery stage was estimated by the angular phenotypic change index (APCI), while the relationship between nursery and field traits was estimated by genetic correlations (rg) and the Pearson coefficient of correlation (rxy). Families presented high plasticity in diameter, height, and survival at nursery stage. Out of 30 families, eight exhibited over 80 % survival in the well-watered treatment, but less than 20 % survival in the water-stress treatment. As expected, growth traits and survival were positively correlated (rg and rxy > 0.65) between both nursery environments. However, for growth, most genetic and phenotypic correlations between combinations of nursery treatments versus the field test were negative or not significant. As there was no detectable pattern of nursery–field correlations regarding to combinations of nursery treatments and test site, the need to include more stable families and genotypes to an appropriate developmental stage at nursery is discussed.

Population density and tillering of andropogon grass submitted to different cutting heights / Densidade populacional e perfilhamento de capim-andropógon submetido a diferentes alturas de corte

The objective of this study was to evaluate the tillering dynamics and population density of Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina, submitted to different cutting heights during the dry and rainy season. A randomized block design was adopted in a split plot scheme. In the main plot, the three cutting heights (10, 20, and 30 cm) were allocated, while the subplots included the following periods: dry (October, November, and December) and rainy (April, May, and June). During the dry period at the height of 10 cm, there was a higher population density of tillers, with 1298.44 tillers m-2. The appearance rate was higher in October for heights of 10 and 30 cm and in December for 20 cm. The 10-cm height provided a higher mortality rate. The survival rate and the stability index were higher in October, with 88.47% and 1.38, respectively. In the rainy season, specifically June, the pasture had a higher height (130.06 cm). The rate of appearance and the stability index were higher in April and during June there was greater mortality, while at the 20-cm height, there was less mortality and greater survival (85.71%) of the tillers. The 20-cm cut height provides a higher survival rate and lower mortality rate of andropogon grass in the dry and rainy season.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a dinâmica de perfilhamento e densidade populacional de perfilhos de capim Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina, submetido a diferentes alturas de corte durante o período seco e chuvoso. Adotou-se o delineamento em blocos ao acaso em esquema de parcelas subdivididas. Na parcela principal alocaram-se as três alturas de corte (10, 20 e 30 cm) e nas subparcelas, os períodos: seco (outubro, novembro e dezembro) e chuvoso (abril, maio e junho). No período seco, na altura de 10 cm houve maior densidade populacional de perfilhos, com 1298,44 perfilhos/m2. A taxa de aparecimento foi maior em outubro para as alturas de 10 e 30 cm e no mês de dezembro na altura de 20 cm. A altura de 10 cm proporcionou maior taxa de mortalidade. A taxa sobrevivência e o índice de estabilidade foram superiores no mês de outubro, com 88,47% e 1,38, respectivamente. No período chuvoso, no mês de junho, o pasto obteve maior altura (130,06 cm). A taxa de aparecimento e o índice de estabilidade foram superiores no mês de abril e durante o mês de junho ocorreu maior mortalidade, enquanto que na altura de 20 cm, houve menor mortalidade e maior sobrevivência (85,71%) dos perfilhos. A altura de 20 cm de corte proporciona maior equilíbrio no desenvolvimento dos perfilhos.(AU)

Growth of radiata pine families in nursery and two years after field establishment

Pinus radiata D. Don is the most widely planted exotic species in Australia, Chile, New Zealand and Spain. In this study, growth and survival of P. radiata were compared in 30 open pollinated families grown under two contrasting watering regimes in nursery (well-watered cf. water-stress conditions) and planted on a drought-prone site with Mediterranean climate in central Chile. This study assessed phenotypic plasticity in growth and survival at nursery stage and two years after establishment in the field. Family plasticity at nursery stage was estimated by the angular phenotypic change index (APCI), while the relationship between nursery and field traits was estimated by genetic correlations (rg) and the Pearson coefficient of correlation (rxy). Families presented high plasticity in diameter, height, and survival at nursery stage. Out of 30 families, eight exhibited over 80 % survival in the well-watered treatment, but less than 20 % survival in the water-stress treatment. As expected, growth traits and survival were positively correlated (rg and rxy > 0.65) between both nursery environments. However, for growth, most genetic and phenotypic correlations between combinations of nursery treatments versus the field test were negative or not significant. As there was no detectable pattern of nursery–field correlations regarding to combinations of nursery treatments and test site, the need to include more stable families and genotypes to an appropriate developmental stage at nursery is discussed.(AU)

Population density and tillering of andropogon grass submitted to different cutting heights / Densidade populacional e perfilhamento de capim-andropógon submetido a diferentes alturas de corte

The objective of this study was to evaluate the tillering dynamics and population density of Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina, submitted to different cutting heights during the dry and rainy season. A randomized block design was adopted in a split plot scheme. In the main plot, the three cutting heights (10, 20, and 30 cm) were allocated, while the subplots included the following periods: dry (October, November, and December) and rainy (April, May, and June). During the dry period at the height of 10 cm, there was a higher population density of tillers, with 1298.44 tillers m-2. The appearance rate was higher in October for heights of 10 and 30 cm and in December for 20 cm. The 10-cm height provided a higher mortality rate. The survival rate and the stability index were higher in October, with 88.47% and 1.38, respectively. In the rainy season, specifically June, the pasture had a higher height (130.06 cm). The rate of appearance and the stability index were higher in April and during June there was greater mortality, while at the 20-cm height, there was less mortality and greater survival (85.71%) of the tillers. The 20-cm cut height provides a higher survival rate and lower mortality rate of andropogon grass in the dry and rainy season.

Objetivou-se avaliar a dinâmica de perfilhamento e densidade populacional de perfilhos de capim Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina, submetido a diferentes alturas de corte durante o período seco e chuvoso. Adotou-se o delineamento em blocos ao acaso em esquema de parcelas subdivididas. Na parcela principal alocaram-se as três alturas de corte (10, 20 e 30 cm) e nas subparcelas, os períodos: seco (outubro, novembro e dezembro) e chuvoso (abril, maio e junho). No período seco, na altura de 10 cm houve maior densidade populacional de perfilhos, com 1298,44 perfilhos/m2. A taxa de aparecimento foi maior em outubro para as alturas de 10 e 30 cm e no mês de dezembro na altura de 20 cm. A altura de 10 cm proporcionou maior taxa de mortalidade. A taxa sobrevivência e o índice de estabilidade foram superiores no mês de outubro, com 88,47% e 1,38, respectivamente. No período chuvoso, no mês de junho, o pasto obteve maior altura (130,06 cm). A taxa de aparecimento e o índice de estabilidade foram superiores no mês de abril e durante o mês de junho ocorreu maior mortalidade, enquanto que na altura de 20 cm, houve menor mortalidade e maior sobrevivência (85,71%) dos perfilhos. A altura de 20 cm de corte proporciona maior equilíbrio no desenvolvimento dos perfilhos.

Remote setting of Nodipecten nodosus (Linnaeus 1758) larvae / Assentamento remoto de larvas Nodipecten nodosus (Linnaeus 1758)

The present study aimed to evaluate the growth and survival of Nodipecten nodosus larvae grown in a remote settlement system. Two forms of transport were tested, one in a humid/wet, environment and one submerged in seawater, with a control treatment maintained at the Laboratory of Marine Mollusks (LMM). After transport treatments, individuals were populated simultaneously inside floating boxes directly at sea and in containers under controlled conditions in the Laboratory of the Experimental Center for Mariculture (CEMAR). No statistical differences were observed in larval survival relative to the method of transport in the different experiments. However, statistical differences were observed in Evaluation 1 (EVA1) for the survival and growth of larvae transported in submerged seawater and settled in the laboratory. No statistical difference was observed between the control and either wet/humid or submerged treatments in EVA2. The survival values in the control treatment in EVA3 were higher (p<0.05) in relation to the wet and submerged treatments cultivated in the laboratory. It was not possible to observe the presence of pre-seeds in treatments grown at sea. Is possible to transport larvae for 6 hours of travel to be settled in controlled conditions far from their place of origin.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o crescimento e a sobrevivência de larvas de vieiras Nodipecten nodosus cultivadas em sistema remoto de assentamento. Foram testadas duas formas de transporte, úmido e submerso em água do mar com um tratamento controle mantido no Laboratório de Moluscos Marinhos (LMM). Após serem expostos aos tratamentos de transporte os animais foram povoados dentro de caixas flutuantes, diretamente no mar e em recipientes em condições controladas no Laboratório do Centro Experimental de Maricultura (CEMAR). Não houve diferença estatística na sobrevivência das larvas em relação ao método de transporte nos diferentes experimentos. Observou-se diferenças estatísticas (p<0,05), na avaliação 1 (EVA1), para a sobrevivência e crescimento de larvas transportadas em meio submerso e assentadas no laboratório. Entretanto, não foi observada diferença estatística entre o tratamento controle, úmido e submerso na EVA2. Os valores de sobrevivência no tratamento controle na EVA3 foram superiores (p<0,05) em relação aos tratamentos úmido e submersos cultivados em laboratório. Não foi possível observar presença de pré-sementes nos tratamentos cultivados no mar. Conclui-se que é possível transportar larvas por seis horas de viagem para serem assentadas em condições controladas distante do seu local de origem.

Remote setting of Nodipecten nodosus (Linnaeus 1758) larvae / Assentamento remoto de larvas Nodipecten nodosus (Linnaeus 1758)

The present study aimed to evaluate the growth and survival of Nodipecten nodosus larvae grown in a remote settlement system. Two forms of transport were tested, one in a humid/wet, environment and one submerged in seawater, with a control treatment maintained at the Laboratory of Marine Mollusks (LMM). After transport treatments, individuals were populated simultaneously inside floating boxes directly at sea and in containers under controlled conditions in the Laboratory of the Experimental Center for Mariculture (CEMAR). No statistical differences were observed in larval survival relative to the method of transport in the different experiments. However, statistical differences were observed in Evaluation 1 (EVA1) for the survival and growth of larvae transported in submerged seawater and settled in the laboratory. No statistical difference was observed between the control and either wet/humid or submerged treatments in EVA2. The survival values in the control treatment in EVA3 were higher (p<0.05) in relation to the wet and submerged treatments cultivated in the laboratory. It was not possible to observe the presence of pre-seeds in treatments grown at sea. Is possible to transport larvae for 6 hours of travel to be settled in controlled conditions far from their place of origin.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o crescimento e a sobrevivência de larvas de vieiras Nodipecten nodosus cultivadas em sistema remoto de assentamento. Foram testadas duas formas de transporte, úmido e submerso em água do mar com um tratamento controle mantido no Laboratório de Moluscos Marinhos (LMM). Após serem expostos aos tratamentos de transporte os animais foram povoados dentro de caixas flutuantes, diretamente no mar e em recipientes em condições controladas no Laboratório do Centro Experimental de Maricultura (CEMAR). Não houve diferença estatística na sobrevivência das larvas em relação ao método de transporte nos diferentes experimentos. Observou-se diferenças estatísticas (p<0,05), na avaliação 1 (EVA1), para a sobrevivência e crescimento de larvas transportadas em meio submerso e assentadas no laboratório. Entretanto, não foi observada diferença estatística entre o tratamento controle, úmido e submerso na EVA2. Os valores de sobrevivência no tratamento controle na EVA3 foram superiores (p<0,05) em relação aos tratamentos úmido e submersos cultivados em laboratório. Não foi possível observar presença de pré-sementes nos tratamentos cultivados no mar. Conclui-se que é possível transportar larvas por seis horas de viagem para serem assentadas em condições controladas distante do seu local de origem.(AU)