Efficacy of Ficus carica leaf extract on morphological and molecular behavior of mice germ stem cells

Infertility is one of the most prevalent health disorders in reproductive-age males and females. Ficus carica (Fc), an herbal plant, has been used traditionally for the treatment of different diseases such as infertility especially in Iranian folk medicine. This study examined the effects of Fc leaf extract on the proliferation of mice spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Phenolic, flavonoid content, major polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated respectively by Folin-Ciocateu, aluminum chloride, HPLC and the FRAP and DPPH methods. Testicular cells of neonate mice were extracted and their identity was confirmed using cytokeratin for Sertoli and Oct-4, CDHI and PLZF for SSCs. Effects of Fc (0.0875, 0.175, 0.35, 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml) was evaluated at third, 7th, 9th and 14th days of culture by colony assay. The expression of the Mvh, GFRα1 and Oct-4 genes and the viability and proliferation of cultured cells was assessed at the end of the culture period. The extract has a rich phenolic and flavonoid content such as Rutin, Psoralen, Bergapten and Caffeoylmalic acid using HPLC analysis. It also had a potent reducing and radical scavenging activity. Morphology of colonies was similar in all groups. Higher viability, proliferation, colony number and diameter of SSCs was seen in the presence of Fc leaf extract in a dosedependent manner so that higher number and diameter of colonies were observed in two higher doses of 0.71 and 1.42 mg/ml, separately for each time point relative to other groups. The Mvh, Oct-4 and GFRα1 genes expression had no significant differences between groups. It seems that Fc leaf extract not only had no any cytotoxic effects on the viability and proliferation of SSCs but also support their stemness state. So, this culture system can be employed for enrichment of germ stem cells for use in clinical applications.(AU)

UV-C radiation on fresh fig quality

Sanitization using chemical agents to reduce the microbiological load on the surface of agricultural products have the drawback of leaving residues. Conversely, physical treatments, such as ultraviolet radiation C (UV-C), are residue-free, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. Ripe figs are perishable, exhibiting an epidermis with low resistance to mechanical treatment, high water content and the ostiole, which is an open door that expedites undesirable microorganism penetration. In this study, the effect of different energy levels of UV-C radiation on the appearance and physico-chemical properties of the figs when stored at 10 °C and 20 °C was evaluated focusing on the technological parameters of the application of radiation. The energy levels of radiation applied were 0.00, 0.71, 1.32, 2.64 and 4.01 kJ m−2 and they showed neither acceleration nor delay effects on fig ripening. Figs exposed to the radiation energy at 0.71, 1.32, 2.64 and 4.01 kJ m−2 showed a lower incidence of rot at the same temperature, but the figs exposed to the highest radiation, 4.01 kJ m−2, showed more wilting and stains, which significantly impaired their appearance. UV-C radiation reduces the development of rotting, providing evidence of its potential in the postharvest processing of ripe figs. However, radiation levels should be limited to avoid undesirable epidermis stains.

UV-C radiation on fresh fig quality

Sanitization using chemical agents to reduce the microbiological load on the surface of agricultural products have the drawback of leaving residues. Conversely, physical treatments, such as ultraviolet radiation C (UV-C), are residue-free, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. Ripe figs are perishable, exhibiting an epidermis with low resistance to mechanical treatment, high water content and the ostiole, which is an open door that expedites undesirable microorganism penetration. In this study, the effect of different energy levels of UV-C radiation on the appearance and physico-chemical properties of the figs when stored at 10 °C and 20 °C was evaluated focusing on the technological parameters of the application of radiation. The energy levels of radiation applied were 0.00, 0.71, 1.32, 2.64 and 4.01 kJ m−2 and they showed neither acceleration nor delay effects on fig ripening. Figs exposed to the radiation energy at 0.71, 1.32, 2.64 and 4.01 kJ m−2 showed a lower incidence of rot at the same temperature, but the figs exposed to the highest radiation, 4.01 kJ m−2, showed more wilting and stains, which significantly impaired their appearance. UV-C radiation reduces the development of rotting, providing evidence of its potential in the postharvest processing of ripe figs. However, radiation levels should be limited to avoid undesirable epidermis stains.(AU)

Níveis de infestação de Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) em diferentes frutos hospedeiros / Infestation levels of Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in different host fruits

A mosca-do-figo, Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) é uma espécie generalista, mas importante economicamente na cultura do figo, onde é considerada praga primária. Esse estudo teve como objetivo verificar os níveis de infestação natural de Z. indianus em frutos de amora, araçá, fisális, goiaba, mirtilo, morango e pitanga na região sul do Brasil. Os índices foram calculados por meio do número de moscas emergidas por fruto e do número de moscas por massa (kg) de fruto. Os maiores índices de infestação (mosca/kg) foram verificados em amoras (1295), araçás (1253) e pitangas (1016), enquanto que para o segundo índice (M/n) os maiores índices foram verificados em goiabas (26,17), araçás (11,87) e morangos (10,27). Frutos coletados diretamente da planta foram mais infestados em relação a frutos coletados no solo, o que pode ser devido ao ataque inicial de Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) e Anastrepha spp., pragas já disseminadas na região.

The fig fly, Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a generalist species, but economically important in the fig culture, in which it is considered a primary pest. This study aimed to verify the levels of natural infestation of Z. indianus in blackberry, strawberry guava, Physalis, guava, blueberry, strawberry and Surinam cherry fruits in southern Brazil. The indexes were calculated through the number of flies emerged per fruit and the number of flies per mass (Kg) of fruit. The highest rates of infestation (fly/Kg) were observed in blackberries (1295), strawberry guavas (1253) and Surinam cherries (1016); for the second index, (M/n) in guavas (26.17), strawberry guavas (11.87) and strawberries (10.27). Fruits collected directly from the plant were more infested compared with fruits collected from the soil, which may be due to the initial attack of Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) and Anastrepha spp., pests already disseminated in the region.

Níveis de infestação de Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) em diferentes frutos hospedeiros / Infestation levels of Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in different host fruits

A mosca-do-figo, Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) é uma espécie generalista, mas importante economicamente na cultura do figo, onde é considerada praga primária. Esse estudo teve como objetivo verificar os níveis de infestação natural de Z. indianus em frutos de amora, araçá, fisális, goiaba, mirtilo, morango e pitanga na região sul do Brasil. Os índices foram calculados por meio do número de moscas emergidas por fruto e do número de moscas por massa (kg) de fruto. Os maiores índices de infestação (mosca/kg) foram verificados em amoras (1295), araçás (1253) e pitangas (1016), enquanto que para o segundo índice (M/n) os maiores índices foram verificados em goiabas (26,17), araçás (11,87) e morangos (10,27). Frutos coletados diretamente da planta foram mais infestados em relação a frutos coletados no solo, o que pode ser devido ao ataque inicial de Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) e Anastrepha spp., pragas já disseminadas na região.(AU)

The fig fly, Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a generalist species, but economically important in the fig culture, in which it is considered a primary pest. This study aimed to verify the levels of natural infestation of Z. indianus in blackberry, strawberry guava, Physalis, guava, blueberry, strawberry and Surinam cherry fruits in southern Brazil. The indexes were calculated through the number of flies emerged per fruit and the number of flies per mass (Kg) of fruit. The highest rates of infestation (fly/Kg) were observed in blackberries (1295), strawberry guavas (1253) and Surinam cherries (1016); for the second index, (M/n) in guavas (26.17), strawberry guavas (11.87) and strawberries (10.27). Fruits collected directly from the plant were more infested compared with fruits collected from the soil, which may be due to the initial attack of Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) and Anastrepha spp., pests already disseminated in the region.(AU)

A cysteine protease from the latex of Ficus benjamina has in vitro anthelmintic activity against Haemonchus contortus / Atividade anti-helmíntica in vitro de uma protease cisteínica do látex de Ficus benjamina contra Haemonchus contortus

Haemonchus contortus is a gastrointestinal nematode that is responsible for high mortality rates in ruminant herds. The resistance of nematodes to synthetic anthelmintics is widespread and requires a continuous search for new bioactive molecules, such as proteins. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anthelmintic potential of a protease purified from the latex of Ficus benjamina against H. contortus . Fresh latex was collected from plants via small incisions in the green stems, the rubber was removed by centrifugation, and the latex protein extract (LPE) was obtained. After LPE fractionation with ammonium sulfate and chromatography of the fraction containing the highest proteolytic activity on CM-cellulose, a cysteine protease (FbP) was purified. FbP has a molecular mass of approximately 23.97 kDa, and its proteolytic activity was stable between pH 6.0 and pH 10 and over a broad temperature range, with optimum activity at 60 °C. FbP inhibited both the development and exsheathment of H. contortus larvae, with 50% effective concentrations of 0.26 and 0.79 mg/mL, respectively. We conclude that this cysteine protease from F. benjamina latex with anthelmintic activity against H. contortus could be a promising alternative for the development of products for use in parasite control programmes.(AU)

Haemonchus contortus é um nematoide gastrintestinal, responsável por altas taxas de mortalidade em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes. A resistência dos nematoides aos anti-helmínticos sintéticos está generalizada e requer uma busca contínua por novos compostos bioativos, como as proteínas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial anti-helmíntico da protease purificada do látex de Ficus benjamina contra H. contortus . O látex fresco foi coletado das plantas por pequenas incisões nas hastes verdes e o extrato proteico de látex (EPL) foi obtido. Após o fracionamento do EPL com sulfato de amônio e cromatografia da fração contendo a maior atividade proteolítica da CM-Celulose, uma protease cisteínica (FbP) foi purificada. A FbP tem massa molecular de cerca de 23,97 kDa, a atividade proteolítica foi estável entre pH 6,0 e pH 10 e ao longo de uma ampla faixa de temperatura, com atividade ótima a 60 °C. A FbP inibiu tanto o desenvolvimento quanto o desembainhamento das larvas de H. contortus, com 50% de inibição nas concentrações de 0,26 e 0,79 mg/mL, respectivamente. Concluímos que esta protease cisteínica do látex de F. benjamina, com ação anti-helmíntica contra H. contortus, pode ser uma alternativa promissora para o desenvolvimento de produtos a serem utilizados em programas de controle de parasitos.(AU)

Detection of differentially methylated regions of irradiated fig tree selections

Fig tree (Ficus carica L.) breeding programs using conventional methods, such as directed crosses, to obtain new cultivars, are unworkable in many countries, including Brazil. Consequently, genetic breeding through mutagenesis has emerged as an important line of research that can improve this crop, and be a significant source of information about this species and assist in the implementation of propagation projects and appropriate management. The aim of this study was to verify the existence of epigenetic variability attributable to DNA methylation in irradiated fig selections when compared both to each other and to the main commercial cultivar, Roxo-de-Valinhos, which had previously used methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) and DNA sequencing to detect the position of polymorphic regions, analyzable by bioinformatic tools. The sequencing of DNA, isolated from the differentially methylated sites, makes it possible to observe different patterns of methylation by sequencing the treated DNA with sodium bisulfite in the coding regions of regulatory genes active in the development, and fruit ripening stages. Furthermore, they have been found in the mitochondrial DNA of treatments which regulate the supply of energy in Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) form in plants. Closely related to their development, they justify the different phenotypes found in both fruit and plant growth that have suffered stress due to exposure to gamma radiation. Thus, future studies on gene expression in treatments have emerged as an extremely important strategy for understanding these complex regulatory systems, which may lead to the identification of genes of agricultural interest for the fig tree crop, and allow for manipulation and subsequent propagation of improved crops for commercial purposes.

Detection of differentially methylated regions of irradiated fig tree selections

Fig tree (Ficus carica L.) breeding programs using conventional methods, such as directed crosses, to obtain new cultivars, are unworkable in many countries, including Brazil. Consequently, genetic breeding through mutagenesis has emerged as an important line of research that can improve this crop, and be a significant source of information about this species and assist in the implementation of propagation projects and appropriate management. The aim of this study was to verify the existence of epigenetic variability attributable to DNA methylation in irradiated fig selections when compared both to each other and to the main commercial cultivar, Roxo-de-Valinhos, which had previously used methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) and DNA sequencing to detect the position of polymorphic regions, analyzable by bioinformatic tools. The sequencing of DNA, isolated from the differentially methylated sites, makes it possible to observe different patterns of methylation by sequencing the treated DNA with sodium bisulfite in the coding regions of regulatory genes active in the development, and fruit ripening stages. Furthermore, they have been found in the mitochondrial DNA of treatments which regulate the supply of energy in Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) form in plants. Closely related to their development, they justify the different phenotypes found in both fruit and plant growth that have suffered stress due to exposure to gamma radiation. Thus, future studies on gene expression in treatments have emerged as an extremely important strategy for understanding these complex regulatory systems, which may lead to the identification of genes of agricultural interest for the fig tree crop, and allow for manipulation and subsequent propagation of improved crops for commercial purposes.(AU)

Natural history of Gynaikothrips uzeli (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) in galls of Ficus benjamina (Rosales, Moraceae) / História natural de Gynaikothrips uzeli (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) em galhas de Ficus benjamina (Rosales, Moraceae)

Galls induced by thrips are simple structures when compared to those of other groups of arthropods, and little is known regarding many of their aspects. This study aimed to investigate aspects of the natural history of Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann, 1900 in galls of Ficus benjamina L., 1753 using seasonal sampling (summer and winter). Twenty trees were sampled and divided into quadrants. From each of them, five galls were collected, forming a total of 400 galls per collection. Thrips showed greater abundance at higher temperatures (25.7°C) and no precipitation. Sex ratio was biased towards females (0.022 males per female), pointing to an inbred mating structure. Arthropod fauna associated with galls was more abundant (N=798) in winter, and it included representatives of the orders Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Araneae, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Psocoptera, Thysanoptera, Diptera and Blattodea.(AU)

As galhas induzidas por tripes são estruturas simples quando comparadas com outros grupos de artrópodes e pouco conhecidas quanto a diversos aspectos. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar aspectos da história natural de Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann, 1900 em galhas de Ficus benjamina L., 1753 em coletas sazonais (verão e inverno). Vinte árvores escolhidas, aleatoriamente, foram divididas em quatro quadrantes, e em cada um deles coletadas cinco galhas, perfazendo um total de 400 galhas por coleta. Os tripes apresentaram uma maior abundância em temperaturas mais elevadas (25,7°C) e sem precipitação. A razão sexual (0,022 machos) encontrada foi baixa (tendenciosa às fêmeas), apontando para uma estrutura endogâmica de acasalamento. A fauna associada de artrópodes presentes nas galhas foi mais abundante (N=798) no período de inverno e incluiu representantes das ordens Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Araneae, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Psocoptera, Thysanoptera, Diptera e Blattodea.(AU)

Natural history of Gynaikothrips uzeli (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) in galls of Ficus benjamina (Rosales, Moraceae) / História natural de Gynaikothrips uzeli (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) em galhas de Ficus benjamina (Rosales, Moraceae)

Galls induced by thrips are simple structures when compared to those of other groups of arthropods, and little is known regarding many of their aspects. This study aimed to investigate aspects of the natural history of Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann, 1900 in galls of Ficus benjamina L., 1753 using seasonal sampling (summer and winter). Twenty trees were sampled and divided into quadrants. From each of them, five galls were collected, forming a total of 400 galls per collection. Thrips showed greater abundance at higher temperatures (25.7°C) and no precipitation. Sex ratio was biased towards females (0.022 males per female), pointing to an inbred mating structure. Arthropod fauna associated with galls was more abundant (N=798) in winter, and it included representatives of the orders Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Araneae, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Psocoptera, Thysanoptera, Diptera and Blattodea.

As galhas induzidas por tripes são estruturas simples quando comparadas com outros grupos de artrópodes e pouco conhecidas quanto a diversos aspectos. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar aspectos da história natural de Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmermann, 1900 em galhas de Ficus benjamina L., 1753 em coletas sazonais (verão e inverno). Vinte árvores escolhidas, aleatoriamente, foram divididas em quatro quadrantes, e em cada um deles coletadas cinco galhas, perfazendo um total de 400 galhas por coleta. Os tripes apresentaram uma maior abundância em temperaturas mais elevadas (25,7°C) e sem precipitação. A razão sexual (0,022 machos) encontrada foi baixa (tendenciosa às fêmeas), apontando para uma estrutura endogâmica de acasalamento. A fauna associada de artrópodes presentes nas galhas foi mais abundante (N=798) no período de inverno e incluiu representantes das ordens Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Araneae, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Psocoptera, Thysanoptera, Diptera e Blattodea.

Gray mold in immature fig fruit: pathogenicity and growth temperature / Mofo cinzento em frutos imaturos de figo: patogenicidade e temperatura para crescimento

Several diseases can be associated with figs but recently a fruit rot was observed in green fruit. The purpose of this study was to determine the pathogenicity of Botrytis sp., to quantify incubation period (IP) and latent period (LP), to verify the optimum temperature for mycelial growth, and to identify the different species of Botrytis sp. isolated from immature figs. Botrytis sp. isolated from figs proved to be pathogenic to immature fruit with and without wounding the fruit surface and ostiole. The IP period was 3 days on fruit with wounds and 5 days on fruit inoculated within the ostiole (without wound). The LP was 6 days in all treatments. The optimum temperature for mycelial growth was 18°C. Inferred from sequences of a segment comprising the ITS region of ribosomal DNA concluded that the isolates are Botrytis cinerea.(AU)

Várias doenças podem estar associadas com figos, mas recentemente uma podridão dos frutos foi observada em frutos verdes. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a patogenicidade de Botrytis sp., quantificar o período de incubação (PI) e o período de latência (PL), verificar a temperatura ótima para o crescimento micelial e identificar as diferentes espécies de Botrytis sp. isoladas a partir de frutos imaturos de figo. Botrytis sp. isolado a partir de figos provou ser patogênico em frutos imaturos com e sem ferimento na superfície dos frutos e no ostíolo. O PI foi de 3 dias em frutos com ferimento e 5 dias em frutos inoculados no ostíolo e sem ferimento. O PL foi de 6 dias em todos os tratamentos. A temperatura ótima de crescimento micelial foi18°C. A partir de sequências de um segmento que compreende a região de ITS do DNA ribossomal, concluiu-se que os isolados são Botrytis cinerea.(AU)

Composition and structure of the fig wasp community in Amazonia / Composição e estrutura da comunidade de vespas-de-figo na Amazônia

An understanding of the complex ecological interaction between fig wasps and their host plants in Amazonia requires previous knowledge of their distribution and diversity. The objective of this study was to describe the composition and structure of the wasp community associated with four species of Ficus in the municipal area of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. A total of 600 syconia from four species were collected. The study species were: Ficus obtusifolia Kunth; Ficus citrifolia Mill; F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. form mathewsii; and F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. form parkeriana. Statistical analyses were used to examine the relationship between fig wasp diversity and syconium diameter, and the effect of non-pollinating wasps on numbers of pollinators and seeds. Forty three species of fig wasp were identified, distributed across seven genera (Pegoscapus, Idarnes, Aepocerus, Physothorax, Anidarnes, Heterandrium , Eurytoma). Idarnes (carme group) was the wasps genus non-pollinator with greatest number of individuals with the greatest number of infested syconia (7409 wasps in 376 syconia). Analysing non-pollinating wasp diversity in relation to fig diameter, a significant difference was observed between the four fig species. Ficus citrifolia and F. americana subspecies guianensis form mathewsii had the smallest diameter but the greatest diversity of fig wasp. Ficus obtusifolia was the only species in which the non-pollinating wasps had a significant negative effect on the number of Pegoscapus sp. and on seed production.(AU)

A compreensão sobre as complexas interações ecológicas envolvendo vespas-de-figo e suas plantas hospedeiras na Amazônia depende do conhecimento prévio sobre a distribuição e diversidade dessas vespas. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a composição e estrutura da comunidade de vespas associadas a quatro espécies de Ficus no município de Manaus, Amazonas. Foram coletados e analisados 600 sicônios de quatro espécies: Ficus obtusifolia Kunth; Ficus citrifolia Mill; F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. forma mathewsii; and F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. forma parkeriana. Análises estatísticas foram usadas para analisar a relação entre a diversidade de vespas-de-figo e o diâmetro do sicônio, e o efeito das vespas não-polnizadoras em relação ao número de polinizadoras e sementes. Foram encontradas 43 espécies de vespas-de-figo distribuídas em sete gêneros (Pegoscapus, Idarnes, Aepocerus, Physothorax, Anidarnes, Heterandrium , Eurytoma). Idarnes grupo carme foi o gênero de vespas não-polinizadora com maior numero de individuos com maior numero de sicônios infestado (7.409 vespas em 376 sicônios). Ao analisar a diversidade de vespas não-polinizadoras em relação ao diâmetro do figo observou-se diferença significativa entre as quatro espécies de figueiras. Ficus citrifolia e F. americana, subespécie guianensis, forma mathewsii apresentaram o diâmetro menor, porém uma maior diversidade de vespas-de-figo. Ficus obtusifolia foi a única espécie em que as vespas não-polinizadoras exerceram efeito negativo significativo tanto no número de Pegoscapus sp. quanto na produção de sementes.(AU)

Composition and structure of the fig wasp community in Amazonia / Composição e estrutura da comunidade de vespas-de-figo na Amazônia

An understanding of the complex ecological interaction between fig wasps and their host plants in Amazonia requires previous knowledge of their distribution and diversity. The objective of this study was to describe the composition and structure of the wasp community associated with four species of Ficus in the municipal area of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. A total of 600 syconia from four species were collected. The study species were: Ficus obtusifolia Kunth; Ficus citrifolia Mill; F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. form mathewsii; and F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. form parkeriana. Statistical analyses were used to examine the relationship between fig wasp diversity and syconium diameter, and the effect of non-pollinating wasps on numbers of pollinators and seeds. Forty three species of fig wasp were identified, distributed across seven genera (Pegoscapus, Idarnes, Aepocerus, Physothorax, Anidarnes, Heterandrium , Eurytoma). Idarnes (carme group) was the wasps genus non-pollinator with greatest number of individuals with the greatest number of infested syconia (7409 wasps in 376 syconia). Analysing non-pollinating wasp diversity in relation to fig diameter, a significant difference was observed between the four fig species. Ficus citrifolia and F. americana subspecies guianensis form mathewsii had the smallest diameter but the greatest diversity of fig wasp. Ficus obtusifolia was the only species in which the non-pollinating wasps had a significant negative effect on the number of Pegoscapus sp. and on seed production.

A compreensão sobre as complexas interações ecológicas envolvendo vespas-de-figo e suas plantas hospedeiras na Amazônia depende do conhecimento prévio sobre a distribuição e diversidade dessas vespas. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a composição e estrutura da comunidade de vespas associadas a quatro espécies de Ficus no município de Manaus, Amazonas. Foram coletados e analisados 600 sicônios de quatro espécies: Ficus obtusifolia Kunth; Ficus citrifolia Mill; F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. forma mathewsii; and F. americana subspecies guianensis Desv. forma parkeriana. Análises estatísticas foram usadas para analisar a relação entre a diversidade de vespas-de-figo e o diâmetro do sicônio, e o efeito das vespas não-polnizadoras em relação ao número de polinizadoras e sementes. Foram encontradas 43 espécies de vespas-de-figo distribuídas em sete gêneros (Pegoscapus, Idarnes, Aepocerus, Physothorax, Anidarnes, Heterandrium , Eurytoma). Idarnes grupo carme foi o gênero de vespas não-polinizadora com maior numero de individuos com maior numero de sicônios infestado (7.409 vespas em 376 sicônios). Ao analisar a diversidade de vespas não-polinizadoras em relação ao diâmetro do figo observou-se diferença significativa entre as quatro espécies de figueiras. Ficus citrifolia e F. americana, subespécie guianensis, forma mathewsii apresentaram o diâmetro menor, porém uma maior diversidade de vespas-de-figo. Ficus obtusifolia foi a única espécie em que as vespas não-polinizadoras exerceram efeito negativo significativo tanto no número de Pegoscapus sp. quanto na produção de sementes.

Cryptococcus: isolamento ambiental e caracterização bioquímica / Cryptococcus: environmental isolation and biochemical characterization

O gênero Cryptococcus caracteriza-se por ser uma levedura responsável por infecção sistêmica, causada pelas espécies Cryptococcus neoformans e Cryptococcus gattii. O fungo é encontrado em substratos de origem animal e vegetal, e a infecção ocorre com a inalação de basidiósporos ou leveduras desidratadas infectantes presentes no ambiente. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo pesquisar a existência de microfocos de Cryptococcussp.em amostras ambientais da cidade de Araçatuba, São Paulo, com a finalidade de minimizar os riscos de contaminação do homem e dos animais, buscando o conhecimento da ecoepidemiologia do Cryptococcus. Foram colhidas 50 amostras oriundas de ocos e troncos de árvores (Cassiasp., Ficussp., Caesalpinea peltophorides) de 10 locais representativos do perímetro urbano, as quais foram encaminhadas ao Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba-Unesp, onde foram processadas e semeadas em placas de Petri contendo ágar semente de Níger e Sabouraud dextrose com clorafenicol e incubadas à temperatura de 30ºC, por um período não inferior a cinco dias. Posteriormente, foram submetidas às provas bioquímicas: produção de urease, termotolerância a 37ºC e quimiotipagem em ágar CGB (L-canavanina-glicina-azul de bromotimol). A análise dos resultados revelaram que 17 (34%) dos cultivos foram positivos para o gênero Cryptococcus, sendo nove (18%) para Cryptococcus gattiie oito (16%) para Cryptococcus neoformans. Outras leveduras correlacionadas, como Rhodotorula sp. e Candida sp., também foram isoladas. Conclui-se que os basidiósporos de Cryptococcusencontram-se dispersos na natureza, constituindo microfocos ambientais, não vinculados necessariamente a um único hospedeiro.(AU)

Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by Cryptococcusyeasts, especially C. neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. The fungus is found in substrates of animal and vegetable origin, and infection occurs through inhalation and seedlings present in the environment. The present study aimed to investigate the existence of microfocus Cryptococcus sp. from the environmental samples of Araçatuba city, São Paulo, featuring new niches, by decoupling the direct relationship between fungus and host in order to minimize the risk of contamination of man and animals, understanding the ecoepidemiology of Cryptococcus. Fifty samples from hollows and tree trunks were harvested (Cassia sp., Ficus sp., Caesalpinea peltophorides) from ten representatives in the urban perimeter. The samples were immediately sent to the Laboratory of Bacteriology and Mycology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Araçatuba - Unesp where they were processed and plated on Petri dishes containing agar seed Niger and Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, incubated at 30ºC for a period of no less than 5 days. Afterwards they were subimitted to biochemical tests: urease production, thermotolerance at 37°C and quimiotipagem in CGB agar (L- Canavanine-Glycine-Bromothymol blue). The results showed that 17 (34%) cultures were positive for Cryptococcus, 9 (18%) for Cryptococcus gattii and 8 (16%) for Cryptococcus neoformans. Other yeast correlated as Rhodotorula sp. and Candida sp. were isolated. We conclude that the infectious propagules of Cryptococcus are dispersed in nature and constitute an environmental microfocus, not necessarily being bound to a single host.(AU)

Phenology of two Ficus species in seasonal semi-deciduous forest in Southern Brazil / Fenologia de duas espécies de Ficus em floresta estacional semidecidual no sul do Brasil

We analyzed the phenology of Ficus adhatodifolia Schott ex Spreng. (23 fig tree) and F. eximia Schott (12 fig tree) for 74 months in a remnant of seasonal semi-deciduous forest (23°27S and 51°15W), Southern Brazil and discussed their importance to frugivorous. Leaf drop, leaf flush, syconia production and dispersal were recorded. These phenophases occurred year-round, but seasonal peaks were recorded in both leaf phenophases for F. eximia and leaf flushing for F. adhatodifolia. Climatic variables analyzed were positively correlated with reproductive phenophases of F. adhatodifolia and negatively correlated with the vegetative phenophases of F. eximia. In despite of environmental seasonality, little seasonality in the phenology of two species was observed, especially in the reproductive phenology. Both species were important to frugivorous, but F. adhatodifolia can play a relevant role in the remnant.(AU)

Foi analisada a fenologia de Ficus adhatodifolia Schott ex Spreng. (23 indivíduos) e F. eximia Schott (12 indivíduos), por 74 meses em um remanescente de floresta estacional semidecidual (23°27S e 51°15W, centro de visitantes) no sul do Brasil e discutido sua importância para os frugívoros. Foram registradas as fenofases: queda e brotamento de folhas, produção e dispersão de siconios. Estas fenofases ocorreram ao longo do ano, porém picos sazonais foram registrados em abscisão e brotamento foliares para F. eximia e brotamento foliar para F. adhatodifolia. As variáveis climáticas analisadas foram positivamente correlacionadas com as fenofases reprodutivas de F. adhatodifolia e negativamente correlacionadas com as fenofases vegetativas de F. eximia. Apesar da sazonalidade ambiental, foi observada baixa variação sazonal na fenologia das duas espécies, especialmente na fenologia reprodutiva. Ambas as espécies foram consideradas importantes para os frugivoros, porém F. adhatodifolia pode desempenhar papel de destaque no fragmento florestal.(AU)

Branch pruning influences on the production and quality of fig Roxo de Valinhos / Desbaste de ramos influencia na produtividade e qualidade do figo Roxo de Valinhos

Dois Vizinhos municipality, as well as much of the Southwest Paraná, Brazil, show favorable environmental conditions for the commercial cultivation of fig trees. However, due to lack of tradition cultivation of fruit trees, including fig trees, in the region, there is insufficient data regarding the optimal number of branches order to maintain the commercial production of figs. The objective was to evaluate the intensity of thinning of branches in Roxo de Valinhos figs related to the branches growth, health and yield of plants, and fruit quality. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with four replications and two plants in each experimental unit, from August 15, 2011, up to April 20, 2012, in Dois Vizinhos, PR, Brazil. The treatments were: check, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 branches. The thinning of branches reduced production; however it does not affect the physicochemical quality of fruits. The branches growth and severity of leaf rust were not affected by thinning of branches.

O município de Dois Vizinhos e parte da região Sudoeste do Paraná possui condições edafoclimáticas favoráveis ao cultivo comercial da figueira. No entanto, devido à falta de tradição no cultivo da maioria das frutíferas na região, incluindo a figueira, há carência de estudos quanto ao número ideal de ramos produtivos a ser mantido na planta visando à produção comercial de figos. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a intensidade de desbaste de ramos produtivos na figueira Roxo de Valinhos sobre o crescimento vegetativo, sanidade e produtividade das plantas e qualidade dos frutos. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento de blocos casualizados com quatro repetições e duas plantas por unidade experimental, no período de 15 de agosto de 2011 a 20 de abril de 2012, em Dois Vizinhos, PR, Brasil. Os tratamentos foram: testemunha, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 e 48 ramos. O desbaste de ramos na figueira Roxo de Valinhos reduz a produtividade, mas não afeta a qualidade físico-química dos frutos. O crescimento vegetativo de ramos e a severidade das folhas à ferrugem não são afetados pelo desbaste de ramos.

Branch pruning influences on the production and quality of fig Roxo de Valinhos / Desbaste de ramos influencia na produtividade e qualidade do figo Roxo de Valinhos

Dois Vizinhos municipality, as well as much of the Southwest Paraná, Brazil, show favorable environmental conditions for the commercial cultivation of fig trees. However, due to lack of tradition cultivation of fruit trees, including fig trees, in the region, there is insufficient data regarding the optimal number of branches order to maintain the commercial production of figs. The objective was to evaluate the intensity of thinning of branches in Roxo de Valinhos figs related to the branches growth, health and yield of plants, and fruit quality. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with four replications and two plants in each experimental unit, from August 15, 2011, up to April 20, 2012, in Dois Vizinhos, PR, Brazil. The treatments were: check, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 branches. The thinning of branches reduced production; however it does not affect the physicochemical quality of fruits. The branches growth and severity of leaf rust were not affected by thinning of branches.(AU)

O município de Dois Vizinhos e parte da região Sudoeste do Paraná possui condições edafoclimáticas favoráveis ao cultivo comercial da figueira. No entanto, devido à falta de tradição no cultivo da maioria das frutíferas na região, incluindo a figueira, há carência de estudos quanto ao número ideal de ramos produtivos a ser mantido na planta visando à produção comercial de figos. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a intensidade de desbaste de ramos produtivos na figueira Roxo de Valinhos sobre o crescimento vegetativo, sanidade e produtividade das plantas e qualidade dos frutos. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento de blocos casualizados com quatro repetições e duas plantas por unidade experimental, no período de 15 de agosto de 2011 a 20 de abril de 2012, em Dois Vizinhos, PR, Brasil. Os tratamentos foram: testemunha, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 e 48 ramos. O desbaste de ramos na figueira Roxo de Valinhos reduz a produtividade, mas não afeta a qualidade físico-química dos frutos. O crescimento vegetativo de ramos e a severidade das folhas à ferrugem não são afetados pelo desbaste de ramos.(AU)

Estimativas da área da folha de figueiras Roxo de Valinhos usando dimensões lineares do limbo foliar / Estimates of leaf area of fig tree Roxo de Valinhos using linear dimensions of the leaf blade

Neste estudo, objetivou-se gerar e validar modelos de estimativa da área da folha da figueira 'Roxo de Valinhos' a partir de medidas lineares de fácil obtenção. Foram coletadas 600 folhas, incluindo-se o máximo de variabilidade quanto ao tamanho, idade e formato, sendo, destas, 200 empregadas na validação das regressões. Empregaram-se os indicativos estatísticos MBE, RMSE, índice de ajustamento e índice de desempenho para avaliação da performance de 51 modelos estimativa, obtidos com base nas aplicações das medidas de comprimento, largura e transversal da folha e suas respectivas interações. Os melhores resultados foram obtidos pelas equações AF=0,1289(C+C1+C2)1,8450 e AF=0,9781[(C+C1+C2)/3]1,8451, que propiciam desvios e espalhamentos de 0,63 e 47,85cm², com ajustamentos, correlações e desempenhos superiores a 91, 95 e 87%, respectivamente. Nas estimativas com base em apenas uma medida, deve-se aplicar a equação AF=2,879 C1,5451.(AU)

This study aimed to generate and validate models to estimate the area of leaf of fig tree 'Roxo de Valinhos' using linear measurements easily taken. It was collected 600 leaves, including the maximum variation in size, age and shape of leaves, wherefore, 200 leaves were used in the validation of the regressions. The statistical indicators MBE, RMSE, adjustment index and performance index were applied to evaluate the performance of 51 models estimate, derived from the application of measures of length, width and transversal, and their interactions together. The best results were obtained using the equations AF=0,1289(C+C1+C2)1,8450 and AF=0,9781[(C+C1+C2)/3]1,8451, which provide deflections and scatterings of 0.63 and 47.85cm², with adjustments, correlations and performance of 91, 95 and 87%, respectively. In the estimates based on only one measure it should be applied the equation AF=2,879C1,5451.(AU)

Optimization and characterization of alkaline protease and carboxymethyl-cellulase produced by Bacillus pumillus grown on Ficus nitida wastes

The potentiality of 23 bacterial isolates to produce alkaline protease and carboxymethyl-cellulase (CMCase) on Ficus nitida wastes was investigated. Bacillus pumillus ATCC7061 was selected as the most potent bacterial strain for the production of both enzymes. It was found that the optimum production of protease and CMCase were recorded at 30 °C, 5% Ficus nitida leaves and incubation period of 72 h. The best nitrogen sources for protease and CMCase production were yeast extract and casein, respectively. Also maximum protease and CMCase production were reported at pH 9 and pH 10, respectively. The enzymes possessed a good stability over a pH range of 8-10, expressed their maximum activities at pH10 and temperature range of 30-50 °C, expressed their maximum activities at 50 °C. Ions of Hg2+, Fe2+ and Ag+ showed a stimulatory effect on protease activity and ions of Fe2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cu2+ and Ag+ caused enhancement of CMCase activity. The enzymes were stable not only towards the nonionic surfactants like Triton X-100 and Tween 80 but also the strong anionic surfactant, SDS. Moreover, the enzymes were not significantly inhibited by EDTA or cystein. Concerning biotechnological applications, the enzymes retained (51-97%) of their initial activities upon incubation in the presence of commercials detergents for 1 h. The potential use of the produced enzymes in the degradation of human hair and cotton fabric samples were also assessed.(AU)

Simultaneous pollinator occurence (Hymenoptera, Agaoninae) in a threatened species: Ficus mexiae Standley (Moraceae) / Ocorrência simultânea de polinizadores (Hymenoptera, Agaoninae) em uma espécie ameaçada: Ficus mexiae Standley (Moraceae)

In Brazil, Ficus mexiae is classified as Vulnerable under IUCN criteria, and to date there is only one report on pollinator activity for this species. Is not unusual to find cases where more than one species of wasp simultaneously occurs on and pollinates the same fig. In this study we present evidence that two Pegoscapus wasp species contribute to the pollination of F. mexiae and relationship between pollinators maybe competitive. These results indicate that the F. mexiae population represent an important element in the complex dynamics of maintaining diversity in neotropical Ficus spp.(AU)

No Brasil, Ficus mexiae é classificada como uma espécie vulnerável sob os critérios da IUCN, e até agora não há um único relatório sobre a atividade dos polinizadores desta espécie. Não é raro encontrar casos em que mais de uma espécie de vespa, simultaneamente, ocorre e poliniza o mesmo figo. Neste estudo, apresentamos evidências de que duas espécies de vespas Pegoscapus contribuem para a polinização de F. mexiae, possivelmente em uma relação competitiva. Estes resultados indicam que a população F. mexiae representa um elemento importante na dinâmica complexa de manutenção da diversidade de Ficus spp. neotropicais.(AU)