Adultrap® trap optimized for collecting vector mosquito eggs, larvae and adults / Armadilha Adultrap® otimizada para coleta de ovos, larvas e adultos de mosquitos vetores

The productivity of the Adultrap® trap was compared to that of modified adultrap traps. Two structural changes were tested, a cover was placed at the entrance of the trap at two different heights. A comparison was also made with traps containing hydrogel to replace the water in the reservoir. The positivity rates of all the trap types were calculated and compared. The hydrogel models were more productive because they collected eggs, larvae, and adults. The trap that removed the protective screen and replaced the water with the hydrogel was 18.5 times larger than the original trap (p = 0.001). There was an increase in the productivity for the total collection of mosquitoes. The collection of eggs, larvae, and adults can contribute to the construction of more robust infestation indices. In addition, it allows for the collection of live specimens and the development of studies.

Comparou-se a produtividade da armadilha Adultrap® com armadilhas Adultrap modificadas. Foram testadas duas mudanças estruturais e foi colocada uma tampa na entrada da armadilha em duas alturas diferentes. Também foi feita uma comparação entre armadilhas contendo água no reservatório e armadilhas contendo hidrogel em substituição à água do reservatório. As taxas de positividade de todos os tipos de armadilha foram calculadas e comparadas. Os modelos com hidrogel foram mais produtivos porque coletaram ovos, larvas e adultos. A armadilha que retirou a tela de proteção e substituiu a água pelo hidrogel, foi 18,5 vezes maior que a armadilha original (P=0,001). Houve aumento na produtividade para a coleta total de mosquitos. A coleta de ovos, larvas e adultos pode contribuir para a construção de índices de infestação mais robustos, além de permitir a coleta de espécimes vivos e o desenvolvimento de estudos.

In situ ruminal degradability of forage cactus-based diets associated with pornunça silage / Degradabilidade ruminal in situ de dietas a base de palma forrageira associada à silagem de pornunça

The knowledge of ruminal degradation kinetics of forage cactus-based diets associated with Euphorbiaceae species of the genus Manihot assist in understanding nutrient quality and use, contributing to the indication of combinations of these ingredients in ruminant diets. This study aimed to evaluate the in situ ruminal degradability of diets with increasing association of forage cactus Elephant Ear (MEE) and pornunça (Manihot sp.) silage, as well as to analyze and evaluate the indigestible neutral detergent fiber (FDNi) content of forage cactus MEE and pornunça silage. The treatments consisted of diets with cactus pear associated with pornunça silage in the roughage portion in the proportions of 375, 250, 125 and 0 g kg-1 of DM. The feed was composed of 50% roughage and 50% concentrate of dry matter. Incubation times of 0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, and 144 hours were evaluated for the ingredients and 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours for the diets. Incubation to obtain the iNDF was given for 288 hours. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, with three replications. Regarding roughage ingredients, MEE showed higher average disappearance, potential degradability (PD), and effective degradability (ED) in relation to pornunça silage, as well as lower NDFi content. The proportion of 375 g kg-1 MEE and 125 g kg-1 pornunça silage provided higher fractions a, b, and c, increasing ED considering the three passage rates, with higher PD. In conclusion, the association between MEE and pornunça silage at a proportion of 375 g kg-1 MEE and125g kg-1 pornunça silage of the roughage portion increases the in situ degradability of dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber.

O conhecimento da cinética de degradação ruminal de dietas compostas por palma-forrageira associadas com espécies de Euphorbiaceae do gênero Manihot auxiliam na compreensão da qualidade e aproveitamento dos nutrientes, com contribuição para a indicação de combinações destes ingredientes em dietas para ruminantes. Objetivou-se avaliar a degradabilidade ruminal in situ de dietas com crescente associação de palma-forrageira Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM) e silagem de pornunça (Manihot sp.), assim como, avaliar o teor de fibra em detergente neutro indigestível (FDNi) da palma OEM e da silagem de pornunça. Os tratamentos consistiram em dietas com palma forrageira associada à silagem de pornunça na porção volumosa nas proporções de 375, 250, 125 e 0 g kg-1 na MS. A dieta foi composta por 50% de volumoso e 50% de concentrado da matéria seca. Foram avaliados os tempos de incubação de 0, 6,12, 24, 48, 96 e 144 para os ingredientes e 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 ,12, 24, 48, 72 e 96 para as dietas. A incubação para a obtenção do FDNi foi realizada por 288 horas. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados, com três repetições. Quanto aos ingredientes volumosos, a palma OEM apresentou maior desaparecimento médio, degradabilidade potencial (DP) e degradabilidade efetiva (DE) em relação à silagem de pornunça, bem como menor teor de FDNi. A proporção de 375 g kg-1 OEM e 125 g kg-1 de silagem de pornunça propiciou maiores frações a, b e c, atuando no aumento da DE considerando as três taxas de passagem, com maior DP. Conclui-se que à associação de palma OEM e silagem de pornunça na proporção de 375 g kg-1 OEM e 125 g kg-1 da silagem de pornunça da porção volumosa aumenta a degradabilidade in situ da matéria seca, proteína bruta e fibra em detergente neutro.

Ética e condicionamento de animais selvagens para a aplicação de técnicas de reprodução assistida / Ethics and conditioning of wild animals for the application of assisted reproduction techniques

A relação humano-animal é conhecida desde o período Mesolítico e vem evoluindo ao longo dos anos pela busca de interações cada vez mais positivas. A forma como os animais e os ambientes são tratados abre muitas discussões éticas e morais em várias correntes filosóficas. O fato é que a biodiversidade vem apresentando uma redução expressiva dentro de um contexto de sexta extinção em massa do planeta e, para muitas espécies, trabalhar manejo populacional envolvendo coleções ex situ, seria a única alternativa de sobrevivência. As informações sobre a biologia das espécies selvagens ainda são muito insipientes e, portanto, faz-se necessário desenvolver pesquisas básicas que colaborem com as Técnicas de Reprodução Assistida (ARTs). A possibilidade de se trabalhar dentro do conceito de Conservação Única possibilita uma interconexão entre os planos de ação in situ e ex situ, as ações antrópicas no meio ambiente (sustentabilidade) e as pesquisas que englobam a conservação. Para tanto, utilizar as técnicas de condicionamento, que são prática voltada ao manejo de bem-estar, associadas às biotecnologias reprodutivas tem sido um manejo cada vez mais utilizado, com sucesso para muitas espécies ameaçadas. Animais manejados dentro dos protocolos de boas práticas são grandes candidatos a fazer parte dos programas de conservação integrada.(AU)

The human-animal relationship has been known since the Mesolithic period and has evolved over the years in search of increasingly positive interactions. How animals and environments are treated opens up many ethical and moral discussions in various philosophical currents. The fact is that biodiversity has been showing a significant reduction within the context of the sixth mass extinction on the planet, and, for many species, working on population management involving ex situ collections would be the only alternative for survival. Information on the biology of wild species is still very incipient; therefore, it is necessary to develop basic research that collaborates with Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ARTs). Working within the One Conservation concept enables an interconnection between in situ and ex situ action plans, anthropic environmental actions (sustainability), and research that encompasses conservation. Therefore, using conditioning techniques­a practice aimed at welfare management­associated with reproductive biotechnologies has been increasingly used, with success for many endangered species. Animals handled within suitable practice protocols are great candidates to be part of integrated conservation programs.(AU)

Biologia reprodutiva das abelhas africanizadas (Apis melífera) e biotecnologias aplicadas à sua conservação / Reproductive biology of Africanized bees (Apis mellifera) and biotechnologies applied to their conservation

A biodiversidade das abelhas africanizadas (Apis melífera) encontra-se sob grande ameaça e, neste cenário as investigações acerca da biologia reprodutiva, alguns aspectos ainda incipientes, bem como métodos aprimorados para a inseminação instrumental e criopreservação de gametas podem ser ferramentas preciosas para a conservação in situ e ex situ de subespécies e ecótipos. O entendimento e adoção de ferramentas como estas mencionadas, podem auxiliar na seleção de características de interesse para os criadores, assim como, nos esforços para a conservação de populações de abelhas ameaçadas.(AU)

The biodiversity of Africanized bees (Apis mellifera) is under great threat and, in this scenario, investigations about reproductive biology, some aspects are still incipient, as well as improved methods for instrumental insemination and cryopreservation of gametes can be precious tools for ex situ and in conservation. situ of subspecies and ecotypes can be contemplated. The understanding and adoption of tools such as those mentioned can help in the selection of characteristics of interest to breeders, as well as those committed to the conservation of endangered bee populations.(AU)

Desafios na andrologia de espécies selvagens, com ênfase em felídeos / Challenges in wild species andrology, with an emphasis on felids

Na prática, compreender a anatomia reprodutiva, a fisiologia e o comportamento do macho, da espécie selvagem com a qual se está trabalhando, é essencial para a avaliação andrológica e para a reprodução bem sucedida. Neste artigo damos especial ênfase à andrologia de felídeos selvagens. O profissional pode ser chamado para solucionar problemas quando a espécie apresenta dificuldade de reprodução em cativeiro e/ou encontra-se ameaçada de extinção. Baixas taxas de fertilidade e de prenhez podem estar associadas ao macho, com influências do estresse pelo cativeiro, nutrição inadequada e erros de manejo reprodutivo. E também, as instituições que mantêm essas espécies sob cuidado humano poderão ser auxiliadas no manejo reprodutivo com o exame andrológico periódico, que pode ser acompanhado de criopreservação de sêmen para formação ou manutenção de um banco de reserva genômica. Como componente de um programa holístico de conservação, incluindo os estudos de ecologia de campo, esta estratégia fortalece ainda mais o vínculo entre as populações ex situ e in situ.(AU)

In practice, understanding the male reproductive anatomy, physiology and the behavior, of the wild species that you are working, is essential for andrological assessment and successful reproduction. In this article we give special emphasis to the andrology of wild felids. The professional can be called to solve problems when the species has difficulty reproducing in captivity and/or is threatened with extinction. Low fertility and pregnancy rates may be associated with the male, with influences from stress in captivity, inadequate nutrition and reproductive management errors. Also, the institutions that keep these species under human care can be assisted in reproductive management with periodic andrological examination, which can be accompanied by semen cryopreservation for the formation or maintenance of a genome resource bank. As a component of a holistic conservation program, including field ecology studies, this strategy further strengthens the link between ex situ and in situ populations.(AU)

Reprodução ex situ de felinos silvestres e seus desafios / Challenges of ex situ reproduction in wild cats

A reprodução ex situ de felinos silvestres assegura a sobrevivência das espécies ameaçadas por meio do estabelecimento e manutenção de populações viáveis em cativeiro. O conhecimento da biologia reprodutiva básica é essencial para o desenvolvimento de planos de manejo reprodutivo (PMRs) eficientes, seja pela reprodução natural ou pela aplicação de técnicas de reprodução assistida (TRAs). Os PMRs visam garantir a representatividade das espécies quanto à variabilidade genética e demográfica baseada nos studbooks. Entretanto, o pareamento de animais selecionados pelos PMRs deve levar em conta, além de fatores genéticos e demográficos, fatores comportamentais e o fenótipo dos animais, uma vez que pode haver consequências negativas caso descendentes de gerações futuras sejam reintroduzidos na natureza. As TRAs estão cada vez mais sendo desenvolvidas para auxiliar na manutenção de populações geneticamente viáveis ex situ que possam contribuir geneticamente com populações in situ. A criopreservação de sêmen e a inseminação artificial (IA) são as TRAs utilizadas atualmente pelos PMR nacionais e internacionais, no entanto, são muitos os desafios para que as populações cativas se reproduzam de maneira adequada visando a manutenção de uma população viável que possa contribuir com populações de vida livre no futuro.(AU)

Reproductive management plans are essential to ensure that imperiled populations maintain adequate genetic and demographic variability and remain representative of the species as a whole. Basic reproductive biology knowledge is essential for the development of efficient reproductive management plans (PMPs), either through natural breeding or through assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). The PMPs aim to ensure the representativeness of the species in terms of genetic and demographic variability based on studbooks. However, the specific animal pairings should be maintaining adequate genetic, behavioral and the phenotype of the animals, ensuring proper reintroduction of animals into the wild. ARTs have been explored as a means to enhance the conservation of endangered species, focused on maintaining genetic diversity through enhanced animal propagation. Semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination (AI) are used by national and international PMRs, however, there are many challenges for captive populations reproduction in order to maintain a viable population that can contribute for freeliving populations in the future.(AU)

Interpopulation characterization of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) from different agroecological environments of Colombia / Caracterização interpopulacional de quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) de diferentes ambientes agroecológicos da Colômbia

Chenopodium quinoa Willd. it is an Andean cereal of great importance for human consumption due to its high nutritional value. In Colombia there is a high phenotypic and genotypic variability within quinoa crops, which has not been studied and has been maintained by the same farmers cycle after production cycle. The objective of this study was to carry out an interpopulation characterization of quinoa cultivated in different producing municipalities of the department of Boyacá, in Colombia, for which 19 morphological descriptors were used, which were evaluated in situ in nine municipalities and analyzed through descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, correlation and conglomerates. In the evaluation of the quantitative traits for all the populations, it was observed that the most variable descriptors were Number of teeth lower leaf (DHI), Lower leaf length (LHI), Width upper leaf (AHI) and Number of teeth upper leaf (DHS). Great segregation between and within individuals of Blanca de Jericó and Piartal was observed for panicle and leaf color and shape, stem color, presence of teeth, and axils on upper and lower leaves. A classification key is proposed that allows in the field to be able to morphologically differentiate the genotypes of Piartal and Blanca de Jericó. This research shows that among the most cultivated genotypes in the department of Boyacá, there is still an important phenotypic diversity given at the inter and intra-individual level, due to the phenological state and the agroclimatological conditions of the different producing regions.

Chenopodium quinoa Willd. é um cereal andino de grande importância para a alimentação humana por causa do seu alto valor nutricional. Na Colômbia, existe uma alta variabilidade fenotípica e genotípica nos cultivos de quinoa, que não foi estudada e tem sido mantida pelo mesmo produtor ciclo após ciclo de produção. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma caracterização interpopulacional da quinoa cultivada em diferentes municípios produtores do departamento de Boyacá, na Colômbia. Para tanto, foram utilizados 19 descritores morfológicos, avaliados in situ em nove municípios e analisados por meio de estatísticas descritivas, análise de componentes principais, correlação e conglomerados. Na avaliação dos caracteres quantitativos para todas as populações, observou-se que os descritores mais variáveis foram: número de dentes da folha inferior (DHI), comprimento da folha inferior (LHI), largura da folha superior (AHI) e número de dentes da folha superior (DHS). Entre os indivíduos de Blanca de Jericó e Piartal e dentro deles, observou-se grande segregação quanto à cor, formato da panícula e folha, cor do caule, presença de dentes e axilas nas folhas superiores e inferiores. É proposta uma chave de classificação que permite no campo poder diferenciar morfologicamente os genótipos de Piartal e Blanca de Jericó. Esta pesquisa mostra que, entre os genótipos mais cultivados no departamento de Boyacá, ainda existe uma importante diversidade fenotípica em nível inter e intraindividual, em razão do estado fenológico e das condições agroclimatológicas das diferentes regiões produtoras.

Congenital renal hypoplasia and contralateral kidney failure in a giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) ex situ in Southeastern Brazil

Renal hypoplasia is incomplete development of the kidneys, in which fewer than normal numbers of nephrons are present at birth. This report is the first of these conditions in mustelids. A female adult giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), ex situ, presented clinically an unusual behavior with prostration, anorexia, hiding in the shelter, ataxia, paraparesis, and death in a clinical course of one day. At the postmortem exam, the left kidney was markedly enlarged and pale and the right kidney was severely reduced and had mild to moderate capsular thickening. Histologically, the left kidney had mineralization, proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and a mild neutrophilic infiltrate. The right kidney presented a reduced number of glomeruli, tubular atrophy and an increase in fibrous connective tissue, which were findings compatible with congenital kidney hypoplasia. Due the clinical condition of the animal, gross and microscopic findings, the cause of death was established as kidney failure induced by renal hypoplasia.(AU)

Genetic relationships of the Yucatan black hairless pig with Iberian breeds using single nucleotide polymorfisms / Relações genéticas de porcos pretos calvos de Yucatán com raças ibéricas usando Polimorfismo de nucleotídeos isolados

To conduct ex-situ creole pig conservation programs, it is essential to determine which breeding animals will be used, preferentially those with a more significant Iberian genetic component to preserve their origin. This study used a Yucatan black hairless pigs (YBHP) subpopulation to estimate its genetic diversity and population structure. One hundred four adult pigs were selected for the absence of hair, black skin (without spots), black hoof, and straight snout. The porcine-GGP-50K chip was used for SNP genotyping in YBHP, and information on Iberian and Yucatán hairless pigs from the United States (USYU) was taken from databases. All analysis was performed using PLINK v1.9 and v2.1 software. Inbreeding and fixation index values were lower in YBHP, with high observed heterozygosity and allogamy index values, which agree with those obtained in the populations of Canarias and Chato Murciano. According to the clusters generated by the "Genome-Wide Identity by State" analysis, four groups were identified, one of which included pigs from Guadyerbas, USYU, and YBHP. Between populations, YBHP was closely related to the hairless pigs from Guadyerbas, USYU, and Canarias. Principal component analysis showed the same result. According to the results obtained from the runs of homozygosity investigation, aimed to get pools consensus of regions of overlapping, 119 SNPs associated with genes and biological processes were identified. The BMP7 and NSUN2 genes were associated with epithelial cell differentiation, morphogenesis, and epithelial development. For nutrient metabolism: energy, the HADHA, PPARA, ADD1/SREBF1, and FAT 1genes were identified.(AU)

Para realizar programas de conservação ex-situ de suínos crioulos, é importante determinar quais animais serão criados, preferencialmente aqueles com maior componente de genética ibérica, para preservar sua origem. Uma subpopulação de porco preto calvo de Yucatán (YBHP) foi usada para estimar sua diversidade genética e estrutura populacional. Um total de 104 suínos adultos foram selecionados levando-se em consideração características como ausência de pelos, pele preta (sem manchas), casco preto e focinho reto. O painel GGP-50K foi utilizado para a genotipagem dos SNPs em animais YBHP, e informações de porcos sem pelos ibéricos e de Yucatán dos Estados Unidos (USYU) foram retiradas de bancos de dados. Todas as análises foram realizadas com o software PLINK v1.9 e v2.1. Os valores dos índices de endogamia e fixação foram menores em YBHP, com altos valores de índice de heterozigosidade e alogamia observados, que concordam com os obtidos nas populações de Canárias e Chato Murciano. De acordo com os clusters gerados pela análise "Genoma-Wide Identity By State", quatro grupos foram identificados, um dos quais incluiu porcos de Guadyerbas, USYU e YBHP. Entre as populações, YBHP estava intimamente relacionado com os porcos sem pelo de Guadyerbas, USYU e Canárias. A análise de componentes principais mostrou o mesmo resultado. De acordo com os resultados obtidos nas corridas de investigação de homozigose, visando obter consenso de pools de regiões de sobreposição, foram identificados 119 SNPs associados a genes e processos biológicos. Os genes BMP7 e NSUN2 foram associados à diferenciação de células epiteliais, morfogênese e desenvolvimento epitelial. Para metabolismo de nutrientes: energia, os genes HADHA, PPARA, ADD1/SREBF1 e FAT1 foram identificados.(AU)

Glyphosate in oat desiccation for haylage harvest at different wilting times

The objective was to evaluate the ruminal disappearance rate of dry matter and NDF of black oat haylage subjected to mechanical and chemical dehydration and six wilting periods in the field, as follows: 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days. Forage haylageswere ensiled and stored in PVC mini-silos for 60 days until opening for in situ evaluations. The pre-set ruminal incubation times were: 0, 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Regardless of the dehydration time, forage subjected to mechanical dehydration showed ruminal disappearance rates of dry matter and NDF, thus DISDM-48h and DISNDF-48h were superior for this method compared to the chemical method. There was a reduction in DISDM-48h and DISNDF-48h with advancing time of wilting in the field for haylage dehydrated by the chemical method. In general, the chemical dehydration method seems to be more related to better haylage making practices than nutritional factors, where the haylage obtained by mechanical dehydration is superior.(AU)

Activity of essential oils from leaves, flower buds and stems of Tetradenia riparia on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus larvae / Atividade dos óleos essenciais das folhas, botões florais e caules de Tetradenia riparia sobre as larvas de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

Around the world, the main problems of livestock are caused by ectoparasites, however, commercial acaracide are toxic to the environment and detrimental to One Health. Therefore, research has increasingly focused on development of natural products as alternatives for tick control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the larvicidal effect on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, through use of essential oils (EOs) extracted from the leaves, flower buds and stems of Tetradenia riparia. The chemical composition of these EOs was determined through gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). They were tested on larvae at concentrations of 100.000 to 40 µg/mL, using the larval packet test and under semi-natural conditions. The main class of compounds in the chemical composition was sesquiterpenes (both oxygenates and hydrocarbons), whereas the predominant compounds in the leaves, flower buds and stems were 14-hydroxy-9-epi-caryophyllene, T-cadinol and 6-7-dehydroroyleanone, respectively. The leaves proved to be the most effective, with highest larvicidal activity (LC99.9 = 83.53 µg/mL). When tested under semi-natural conditions, the oils obtained efficiency above 98% in all compound tests. The results indicated that these EOs were effective against R. (B.) microplus larvae in vitro and ex-situ, proving that this plant has bioactive molecules with significant larvicidal activity.(AU)

Os principais problemas para a pecuária estão relacionados às ectoparasitoses, e ao fato dos carrapaticidas apresentarem elevada toxicidade ao meio ambiente e à saúde única. Surgem, então, demandas na busca por inovações e desenvolvimento de produtos naturais, como alternativas para o controle dos carrapatos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial da atividade larvicida sobre Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus a partir dos óleos essenciais de Tetradenia riparia (TrOEs) extraídos das folhas, botões florais e caules. A composição química foi determinada por cromatografia gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massa (GC/MS). Os TrOEs foram testados sobre larvas nas concentrações de 100.000 a 40 µg/mL pelo teste de pacote de larvas e em condições seminaturais. Na composição química, a classe majoritária foi os sesquiterpenos (oxigenados e hidrocarbonetos); já os compostos em destaques foram 14-hidroxy-9-epi-caryophyllene, T-cadinol e 6-7-dehidroroyleanone para folhas, botões florais e caules, respectivamente. As folhas demonstraram ser mais eficientes e com maior poder larvicida (CL99.9 = 83.53 µg/mL). Quando testado em condições seminaturais os óleos obtiveram eficiência acima de 98% em todos os compostos testados. Os resultados indicaram que os TrOEs, foram eficazes sobre as larvas de R. (B.) microplus in vitro e ex-situ, evidenciando que esta planta possui moléculas bioativas com ação larvicidas significativas.(AU)

Hydrogel-based dressings in the treatment of partial thickness experimentally induced burn wounds in rats

Purpose: To compare four commercially available hydrogel formulations in the healing of partial thickness burns experimentally induced in rats. Methods: Wistar rats were used, and after the burn wound induction they were divided into the following treatment groups: G1) NaCl 0.9%; G2) 1% silver sulfadiazine; G3) Debrigel™; G4) Safgel™; G5) Dersani™; G6) Solosite™. The animals were followed during seven, 14 and 30 days after the injury induction. Morphometric, macroscopic and microscopic evaluations were performed. Results: The treatment with Dersani™ induced better results during the inflammatory and proliferative phases of the healing process (p<0.05). The animals treated with Safgel™ presented better scaring in the remodeling phase (p<0.05), and the treatment with Dersani™ and Solosite™ induced greater wound closure (p<0.05). Conclusions: The hydrogel-based dressings presented beneficial outcomes in the healing of burn wounds experimentally induced in rats due to their ability in maintain the humidity of the wound, in removing the exudate, in promoting cell migration and collagen production during the different phases of the healing process.

A modified hydrogel production protocol to decrease cellular content

Purpose: To analyze the cytotoxicity and cell in porcine-derived decellularized skin matrix. Methods: We analyzed the effect of multiple decellularization processes by histological analysis, DNA quantification, and flow cytometry. Subsequently, we analyzed the most appropriate hydrogel concentration to minimize cytotoxicity on fibroblast culture and to maximize cell proliferation. Results: After the fourth decellularization, the DNA quantification showed the lowest DNA concentration (< 50 ng/mg). Histological analysis showed no cell components in the hydrogel. Moreover, hematoxylin and eosin showed a heterogeneous structure of collagen fibers. The best hydrogel concentration ranged from 3 to 25%, and there was no significant difference between the 24 hours and seven days. Conclusions: The process of hydrogel production was effective for removing cells and DNA elements. The best hydrogel concentration ranged from 3 to 25%.

Development and characterization of poultry collagen-based hybrid hydrogels for bone regeneration

Purpose: Poultry by-products can contribute as an innovative natural source for the development of composites based on polymers and minerals aiming at bone regeneration. The objective of this study was the physicochemical and biological characterization of collagen-based hydrogels crosslinked with ultraviolet (UV)-riboflavin. Methods: Pure hydrogels of 100% collagen (G1) or hybrid hydrogels, 90% collagen:10% apatite (G2), 90% collagen:10% nanokeratin (G3), and 90% collagen:5% apatite:5% nanokeratin (G4) were characterized by scanning electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, swelling degree and quali-quantitative histological analysis. Ectopic implantation in subcutaneous tissue in mice at one, three and nine weeks allowed to assess the inflammation (neutrophils, lymphocytes, macrophages, and giant cells) and repair (neovascularization, and connective tissue) to determine biocompatibility and the integrity of biomaterials to score their biodegradability. Histomorphometry on critical size defects in rat calvaria at one and three months evaluated the percentage of bone, connective tissue, and biomaterials in all groups. Results: The hydrogels presented porous microstructure, water absorption and physicochemical characteristics compatible with their polymeric and/or mineral composition. All materials exhibited biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low osteoconductivity. G2 showed greater density of new bone and biomaterial than the G1, G3 and G4. Conclusions: The collagen-apatite group formulation suggests potential for development as osteopromoting membrane.

Delivery of active minocycline hydrochloride by local sustained-release system of complex and thermoresponsive hydrogel for dogs / Entrega de hidrocloreto de minociclina ativo pelo sistema local de libertação sustentável de hidrogênio complexo e termorresponsivo para cães

The objective of this study was to develop a novel subgingival sustained-release system for local delivery of bioactive minocycline hydrochloride for periodontal disease treatment in dogs. The system incorporated the Minocycline hydrochloride-Calcium-Dextran sulfate sodium into a thermoresponsive Pluronic F127 hydrogel. Minocycline hydrochloride was sustained release from the system for up to 10 days and the release kinetics fit the power law model. The release medium had a significant statistical difference in antimicrobial activity to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The results showed the system was a promising subgingival sustained-release minocycline hydrochloride delivery system for periodontal disease treatment in dogs.

O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um novo sistema subgengival de liberação sustentada para administração local de cloridrato bioativo de minociclina para tratamento da doença periodontal em cães. O sistema incorporou o cloridrato de minociclina-cálcio-dextrano sulfato de sódio em um hidrogel Pluronic F127 termorresponsivo. O cloridrato de minociclina foi liberado do sistema por até 10 dias e a cinética de liberação se ajustou ao modelo da lei de potência. O meio de liberação apresentou uma diferença estatística significativa na atividade antimicrobiana para Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Os resultados mostraram que o sistema foi um promissor sistema subgengival de liberação sustentada de cloridrato de minociclina para o tratamento da doença periodontal em cães.

Hydrogel composed of potassium acrylate, acrylamide, and mineral as soil conditioner under saline conditions

Hydrogels have potential as soil conditioners due to their high capacity to retain water and mitigate soil salinity. However, investigations under saline conditions are necessary because there are losses in both water absorption and salinity mitigation depending on the composition of hydrogel and ions involved in salinity. In this work, we studied a commercial hydrogel in two experiments. The first experiment was conducted in the laboratory to evaluate the absorption by the hydrogel of water with electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.5, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 dS m-1, promoted by NaCl. The second experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme (with and without hydrogel × EC of the first experiment). Although salinity reduced water absorption by hydrogel by 84 %, the polymer applied in a sandy soil under saline conditions reduced water losses by 58 %. However, hydrogel did not increase the final soil moisture (~ 0.10 g g-1). The polymer reduced Na+ concentration in leachate from 1,499 to 1,219 mg L-1 at the highest salinity level (4.5 dS m-1), but it increased Na+ soil availability by 0.1 mg kg-1 in comparison with polymer absence. Hydrogel application increased Na+ content in plants from 9 to 13 mg kg-1 at the highest salinity, while K+ content was 10 to 16 mg kg-1 lower than that observed without a polymer. Hydrogel 0.07 % (w/w) reduced maize biomass, indicating damage by monovalent ions, compromising the polymer potential under salinity.

Physiology in Talisia esculenta seedlings under irrigation with saline water on substrate with hydrogel / Fisiologia em mudas de Talisia esculenta sob irrigações com água salina em substrato com hidrogel

Salinity interferes in the physiology of seedlings from germination and seedling emergence, so it is necessary to adopt measures to mitigate its effects. The objectives of this research were to evaluate irrigation frequency, saline water, polymer, and container volume in the emergence and physiology of Talisia esculenta (A. St.-Hil.) Radlk. The treatments were obtained from the combination of polymer doses (0.0; 0.2; 0.6; 1.0; and 1.2 g dm-3), electrical conductivities of the irrigation water (0.3; 1, 1; 2.7; 4.3; and 5.0 dS m-1), and irrigation frequencies (daily and alternate), plus two additional treatments to assess the volume of the container. A randomized block design was used. Emergence and leaf indices of chlorophyll, fluorescence, and gas exchange were analyzed 100 days after sowing. The increase in electrical conductivity reduced and delayed seedling emergence. Decreasing irrigation frequency reduced the chlorophyll b index, stomatal conductance, transpiration, net CO2 assimilation, and carboxylation efficiency. The magnitude of the effects of electrical conductivity of water and polymer were associated with the frequency of irrigation. However, both salinity and polymer reduced practically all physiological variables. The reduction in container volume also affected the physiology of the seedlings, with more effects when irrigated on alternate days. The T. esculenta seedlings are considered sensitive to salinity, should be irrigated daily with water with less electrical conductivity than 1.0 dS m-1, as well as higher capacity containers used (0.75 vs 1.30 dm3).(AU)

A salinidade interfere na fisiologia das mudas desde a germinação e emergência das plântulas, por isso, é necessário adotar medidas que mitiguem seus efeitos. Os objetivos com esta pesquisa foi avaliar frequências de irrigação, salina da água, polímero e volume de recipiente na emergência e fisiologia de Talisia esculenta (A. St.-Hil.) Radlk. Os tratamentos foram obtidos da combinação entre doses de polímero (0,0; 0,2; 0,6; 1,0 e; 1,2 g dm-3), condutividades elétricas da água de irrigação (0,3; 1,1; 2,7; 4,3 e; 5,0 dS m-1) e frequências de irrigação (diária e alternada), mais dois tratamentos adicionais para avaliar o volume do recipiente. Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos casualizados. Foram analisados a emergência e aos 100 dias após a semeadura os índices foliares de clorofila, fluorescência e trocas gasosas. O aumento da condutividade elétrica reduziu e atrasou a emergência das plântulas. A diminuição da frequência de irrigação reduziu o índice de clorofila b, condutância estomática, transpiração, assimilação líquida de CO2 e a eficiência carboxilação. A magnitude dos efeitos da condutividade elétrica da água e do polímero estiveram associados com a frequência de irrigação. Entretanto, tanto a salinidade quanto o polímero reduziram praticamente todas as variáveis fisiológicas. A redução no volume do recipiente também afetou a fisiologia das mudas, com mais efeitos ao se irrigar em dias alternados. As mudas de T. esculenta são consideradas sensíveis à salinidade, devendo-se irrigar diariamente com água com condutividade elétrica menor que 1,0 dS m-1, como também utilizar recipientes com capacidade maior (0,75 vs 1,30 dm3).(AU)

Use of hydrogel in the irrigation management of white pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) seedlings: Biometrics and accumulation of organic and inorganic solutes / Uso do hidrogel no manejo da irrigação de mudas de pitaya branca (Hylocereus undatus): Biometria e acúmulo de solutos orgânicos e inorgânicos

The initial development of pitayas may be limited by a few factors, among them, water deficit. Agricultural hydrogels can be used as an alternative to enhance the retention and availability of water and nutrients in the soil. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of irrigation frequency and hydrogel doses on the development of white pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) seedlings to establish a time interval in days between irrigations that provides better seedling development and determine the hydrogel dose that provides a reduction of water consumption without damaging seedling development. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks in a 4 x 4 factorial arrangement, in which the treatments corresponded to 4 hydrogel doses (0, 2, 4, and 6 g/plant of Biogel Hidro Plus) incorporated into the substrate and four irrigation frequencies (1, 3, 5, and 7 days of interval). The biometric characteristics, photosynthetic pigments, and organic and inorganic solutes of the plants were evaluated after 120 days. The use of daily irrigation negatively influenced the growth and biomass accumulation of the aerial part of the seedlings and, consequently, provided the lowest values of cladodes of the pitaya seedlings. Pitaya seedlings had greater development when using an irrigation frequency of around 3 days. The application of 6 g/plant of hydrogel provided the highest averages for accumulation of dry biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and organic and inorganic solutes at irrigation levels of 3.6, 4, and about 3.8 days of intervals, respectively. Hydrogel incorporation allowed increasing the interval between irrigations by 1 day without damages to the seedling development.(AU)

O desenvolvimento inicial das pitayas pode ser limitado por alguns fatores, entre eles, a escassez de água. Os hidrogeis agrícolas podem ser usados como alternativa para aumentar a retenção e a disponibilidade de água e nutrientes no solo. Portanto, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da frequência de irrigação e das doses de hidrogel no desenvolvimento de mudas de pitaya branca (Hylocereus undatus) para estabelecer um intervalo de tempo em dias entre as irrigações que proporcione melhor desenvolvimento das mudas e determinar a dose de hidrogel que proporcione uma redução de consumo de água sem prejudicar o desenvolvimento das mudas. O delineamento experimental consistiu em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 4 x 4, em que os tratamentos corresponderam a 4 doses de hidrogel (0, 2, 4 e 6 g/ planta de Biogel Hidro Plus) incorporados ao substrato e quatro frequências de irrigação (1, 3, 5 e 7 dias de intervalo). As características biométricas, pigmentos fotossintéticos e solutos orgânicos e inorgânicos das plantas foram avaliados após 120 dias. O uso da irrigação diária influenciou negativamente no crescimento e no acúmulo de biomassa da parte aérea das mudas e, consequentemente, proporcionou os menores valores de cladódios das mudas de pitaya. As mudas de pitaya tiveram maior desenvolvimento com a frequência de irrigação em torno de 3 dias. A aplicação de 6 g/planta de hidrogel proporcionou as maiores médias de acúmulo de biomassa seca, pigmentos fotossintéticos e solutos orgânicos e inorgânicos em níveis de irrigação de 3,6, 4 e cerca de 3,8 dias de intervalo, respectivamente. A incorporação do hidrogel permitiu aumentar o intervalo entre as irrigações em 1 dia sem prejuízo ao desenvolvimento das mudas.(AU)

Genetic diversity of Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. progenies from the states of Minas Gerais and Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Diversidade genética de progênies de Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. procedentes de Minas Gerais e Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

There is little information regarding the genetic diversity of native species aimed at identifying the best viable progenies for in situ and ex situ conservation. Furthermore, there is a lack of future forest improvement programs. We aimed to know the genetic diversity of 64 Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. (Fabaceae) progenies. We determined this species' dendrometric characteristics, and when using multivariate techniques and cluster analysis, we verified the differences between the progenies and groups with less heterogeneity. The progeny and provenance test was installed in Dourados (Mato Grosso do Sul - MS), with seeds collected in three MS regions (Vale do Ivinhema, Serra de Maracaju, and Serra da Bodoquena) and in the micro-region of Lavras (Minas Gerais - MG). The experiment was conducted in an alpha lattice 8 x 8 with four repetitions. We found genetic variability among and within P. dubium populations for all height, diameter, circumference at breast height, volume, and basal area characters. We suggest that P. dubium populations have high genetic variability, which indicates possible genetic improvement through best progeny selection. The UPGMA and Tocher methods grouped the progenies into three and nine groups, respectively, in which the most divergent individuals come from MG and the Bonito region in MS. Based on morphological characters, P. dubium progenies identified as 45, 47, 49, 50, 55, and 59 from MG are the most promising, while progenies 6 and 9 were the least promising.

Informações quanto à diversidade genética de espécies nativas visando identificar melhores progênies viáveis para conservação in situ e ex situ, além de futuros programas de melhoramento florestal são incipientes. Objetivamos conhecer a diversidade genética de 64 progênies de Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. (Fabaceae). Determinamos os caracteres dendrométricos dessa espécie, e ao utilizarmos técnicas multivariadas e análises de agrupamento verificamos as diferenças entre as progênies e grupos de menor heterogeneidade. O teste de progênies e procedências foi instalado em Dourados (MS), cujas sementes foram coletadas em três regiões de MS (Vale do Ivinhema, Serra de Maracaju e Serra da Bodoquena) e na microrregião de Lavras-MG. O experimento foi conduzido em alfa-látice 8 x 8, com quatro repetições. Constatamos variabilidade genética entre e dentro das populações de P. dubium para todos os caracteres altura, diâmetro, circunferência à altura do peito, volume e área basal. Sugerimos que as populações de P. dubium tem alta variabilidade genética, o que indicou possibilidade de melhoramento genético pela seleção das melhores progênies. Os métodos UPGMA e Tocher agruparam as progênies em três e nove grupos, respectivamente, em que os indivíduos mais divergentes são procedentes de MG e da região de Bonito em MS. As progênies de P. dubium de identificação 45, 47, 49, 50, 55 e 59, todas de MG, são as mais promissoras, enquanto que as progênies 6 e 9, foram as menos promissoras, baseando-se nos caracteres morfológicos.

Influence of silver nanoparticles on the tissue reaction of polyacrylic acid-based gel

Purpose: To study the influence of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) on tissue reaction when incorporated into a polymeric matrix of polyacrylic acid-based (Carbopol®) gel as a proposal for a new low-cost type of biomaterial that is simple to manufacture for use as an antimicrobial and antioxidative dressing. Methods: In-vivo tests of implantation in the subcutaneous tissue of the back of rats were performed using polyethylene tubes in three situations: empty, only the gel, and gel incorporated with AgNP. Then, the tissue reaction was studied by counting inflammatory cells. Additionally, in-vitro tests of the antioxidative and antimicrobial activity of AgNP were performed. The radical 2,2 diphenyl-1 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was used to test the antioxidative activity of AgNP using electron spin resonance. The antimicrobial activity of AgNP was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration against the microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Results: The results indicated that AgNP presents antioxidative activity and was able to inhibit the growth of the microorganisms tested. The addition of AgNP in Carbopol® did not alter the tissue inflammatory response (p>0.05, Kruskal-Wallis's test). Conclusions: The new biomaterial is promising for future use as a dressing for its beneficial properties for regenerative processes