Estimation of repeatability and genotypic superiority of elephant grass half-sib families for energy purposes using mixed models

The mixed-model methodology is an alternative to select genotypes for traits highly influenced by the environment. In addition, this method allows FOR estimating the repeatability coefficient and predicting the number of assessments needed for a selection process to increase reliability. This study aimed to determine the minimum number of evaluations necessary for a reliable selection process and to estimate the variance components used for predicting genetic gains between and within half-sib families of elephant grass ( Cenchrus purpureus (Schumach.) Morrone ) using the mixed-model methodology. Half-sib families were generated using genotypes from the Active Germplasm Bank of Elephant Grass. The experiment was performed in a randomized block design with nine half-sib families, three replicates, and eight plants per plot. We evaluated 216 genotypes (individual plants) of elephant grass. The deviance analysis was carried out, genetic parameters were estimated, gains between and within families were predicted, and repeatability coefficients were obtained using Selegen software. There was genetic variability for selection within the families evaluated. The reliability values found above 60 % for plant height and number of tillers and above 80 % for dry matter yield suggest that only two evaluations are required to select superior genotypes with outstanding reliability. Sixteen genotypes were identified and selected for their productive potential, which can be used as parents in elephant grass breeding programs for bioenergy production.(AU)

Bibliometric revision regarding the use of survival analysis in seed germination studies / Revisão bibliométrica sobre o uso da análise de sobrevivência em estudos com germinação de sementes

ABSTRACT: Studies on seed science are developed for a wide range of purposes, being the statistical analysis of data essential for experimental reliability and evidence. Due to the characteristics of seed data, several statistical methods can be applied, among them the survival analysis stands out, in virtue of allocating censored data and describing phenomena over time. Therefore, this bibliometric study verified the use of survival analysis in studies with seed germination and to examine the applications of survival analysis in original articles from the Web of Science database for the period from 2000 to 2020. For the application of survival analysis, there was a low number of publications related to seed science, with the USA being the country with the highest number of publications mainly to studies in plant ecology and physiology. In general, the researches were most involved to the evaluation of factors influencing dormancy, physiological stresses, dispersion capacity, population differences and habitats of development which affected seed germination. Therefore, the qualitative overview demonstrates that the survival analysis is a statistical tool of great potential regarding the studies in the area.

RESUMO: Estudos em ciência de sementes são desenvolvidos frente a uma ampla gama de finalidades, sendo a análise estatística dos dados um componente imprescindível para confiabilidade e comprovação experimental. Devido às características dos dados de sementes, diversos métodos estatísticos podem ser aplicados na sua análise, dentre os quais destaca-se a análise de sobrevivência, em virtude de alocar dados censurados e descrever fenômenos ao longo do tempo. Sendo assim, este estudo bibliométrico teve por objetivo verificar o uso da análise de sobrevivência em estudos com germinação de sementes e examinar as aplicações da análise de sobrevivência em artigos originais da base de dados Web of Science para o período de 2000 a 2020. Observou-se para aplicação da análise de sobrevivência, baixo número de publicações com este método estatístico ao decorrer dos anos, sendo os Estados Unidos (EUA) o país de maior produtividade em publicações, com pesquisas relacionadas principalmente a estudos em ecologia vegetal e fisiologia. Em geral, as pesquisas foram mais voltadas para a avaliação de fatores que influenciam a dormência, estresses fisiológicos, capacidade de dispersão, diferenças populacionais e habitats de desenvolvimento que afetaram a germinação das sementes. Portanto, o panorama qualitativo demonstra que a análise de sobrevivência é uma ferramenta estatística de grande potencial em relação aos estudos na área.

AgroReg: main regression models in agricultural sciences implemented as an R Package

Regression analysis is highly relevant to agricultural sciences since many of the factors studied are quantitative. Researchers have generally used polynomial models to explain their experimental results, mainly because much of the existing software perform this analysis and a lack of knowledge of other models. On the other hand, many of the natural phenomena do not present such behavior; nevertheless, the use of non-linear models is costly and requires advanced knowledge of language programming such as R. Thus, this work presents several regression models found in scientific studies, implementing them in the form of an R package called AgroReg. The package comprises 44 analysis functions with 66 regression models such as polynomial, non-parametric (loess), segmented, logistic, exponential, and logarithmic, among others. The functions provide the coefficient of determination (R2), model coefficients and the respective p-values from the t-test, root mean square error (RMSE), Akaike's information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), maximum and minimum predicted values, and the regression plot. Furthermore, other measures of model quality and graphical analysis of residuals are also included. The package can be downloaded from the CRAN repository using the command: install.packages("AgroReg"). AgroReg is a promising analysis tool in agricultural research on account of its user-friendly and straightforward functions that allow for fast and efficient data processing with greater reliability and relevant information.

Combining deep learning and X-ray imaging technology to assess tomato seed quality

Traditional germination tests which assess seed quality are costly and time-consuming, mainly when performed on a large scale. In this study, we assessed the efficiency of X-ray imaging analyses in predicting the physiological quality of tomato seeds. A convolutional neural network (CNN) called mask region convolutional neural network (MaskRCNN) was also tested for its precision in adequately classifying tomato seeds into four seed quality categories. For this purpose, X-ray images were taken of seeds of 49 tomato genotypes (46 Solanum pennellii introgression lines) from two different growing seasons. Four replicates of 25 seeds for each genotype were analyzed. These seeds were further assessed for germination and seedling vigor-related traits in two independent trials. Correlation analysis revealed significant linear association between germination and image-based variables. Most genotypes differed in terms of germination and seed development performance considering the two independent trials, except LA 4046, LA 4043, and LA4047, which showed similar behavior. Our findings point out that seeds with low opacity and percentage of damaged seed tissue and high values for living tissue opacity have greater physiological quality. In short, our work confirms the reliability of X-ray imaging and deep learning methodologies in predicting the physiological quality of tomato seeds.

Collecting information on estrus in cattle using the internet of things / Recolha de informações sobre o cio em bovinos utilizando a internet of things

Monitoring the movements of ruminant animals is one of the most challenging tasks. In animals that act according to their habits, it is difficult to label such movements and transfer them to farmers. Monitoring and recording the movement and behavior of animals on a farm is an adopted method for successfully determining the duration of the estrus cycle in ruminant animals. The Internet is a technology that offers remarkable solutions for such applications. The aim of this study is to determine the hourly step counts and to find the estrus period in the most accurate way with a circuit design applied to the ankles of animals using an IoT-supported microcontroller. The data is transferred to the web environment wirelessly and monitored via wi-fi communication signals. This wireless wearable and network equipment determines the step count and monitors the animal's abnormal body temperature. An IoT-supported microcontroller provides wireless communication, high-speed data transmission, and low power consumption. Insemination was ensured by testing different animals on the application farm. The data is monitored in real-time, and the system gives an alert. Low cost, high reliability, and being able to be watched over the internet are the advantages of the system. This study helped develop new techniques and provided a low-cost proposition for testing wearable technologies on animals.

A monitorização dos movimentos dos animais ruminantes é uma das tarefas mais difíceis. Em animais que agem de acordo com os seus hábitos, é difícil rotular esses movimentos e transferi-los para os agricultores. A monitorização e o registo dos movimentos e do comportamento dos animais numa exploração é um método adoptado para determinar com êxito a duração do ciclo de cio em animais ruminantes. A Internet é uma tecnologia que oferece soluções notáveis para tais aplicações. O objectivo deste estudo é determinar as contagens horárias de passos e encontrar o período de cio da forma mais precisa possível com um design de circuito aplicado aos tornozelos dos animais utilizando um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT. Os dados são transferidos para o ambiente Web sem fios e monitorizados através de sinais de comunicação wi-fi. Este equipamento vestível e de rede sem fios determina a contagem de passos e monitoriza a temperatura corporal anormal do animal. Um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT fornece comunicação sem fios, transmissão de dados a alta velocidade e baixo consumo de energia. A inseminação foi assegurada através de testes com diferentes animais na quinta de aplicação. Os dados são monitorizados em tempo real e o sistema emite um alerta. O baixo custo, a elevada fiabilidade e a possibilidade de ser observado através da Internet são as vantagens do sistema. Este estudo ajudou a desenvolver novas técnicas e forneceu uma proposta de baixo custo para testar tecnologias vestíveis em animais.

Good practices in the rearing and maintenance of zebrafish (Danio rerio) in Brazilian laboratories / Boas práticas na criação e manutenção de zebrafish (Danio rerio) em laboratório no Brasil

Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is a management quality control system that encompasses the organizational process and conditions under which non-clinical health and environmental studies are carried out. According to the World Health Organization, GLP must contain five topics: resources, characterization, rules, results, and quality control. The aim of this work is to address a review according to WHO standard to the implementation of Good Laboratory Practices in zebrafish (Danio rerio) facility. Considering that the promotion of one health (animal, human, and environmental) associated with an education plan, protocols, and records are fundamental to guarantee the safety and integrity of employees, animals and the environment as well as reliability in the results generated. In a way, Brazil still needs improvements related to the wellfare of aquatic organisms (national laws, international agreements, corporate programs, and others); especially in relation to its use in research and technological development. In this way, the implementation of GLPs provide valuable guidance for improving animal welfare and worker safety, facilitating the standardization of research.

As Boas Práticas de Laboratório (BPL) são um sistema de controle de qualidade gerencial que abrange o processo organizacional e as condições sob as quais os estudos não clínicos de saúde e meio ambiente são desenvolvidos. Conforme a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) as BPL devem conter cinco tópicos: recursos, caracterização, regras, resultados e controle de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar uma revisão conforme o padrão da OMS para a implementação das BPL em biotério de zebrafish. Considerando que a promoção da saúde única (animal, humana e ambiental) associada a um plano de educação, protocolos e registros são fundamentais para garantir a segurança e a integridade dos trabalhadores/pesquisadores, animais e meio ambiente assim como confiabilidade nos resultados gerados. De certa forma o Brasil ainda necessita de melhorias relacionadas ao bem-estar de organismos aquáticos (leis nacionais, acordos internacionais, programas corporativos e outros); especialmente em relação à utilização destes na pesquisa e desenvolvimento tecnológico. Desta forma, a implementação de BPL fornece uma orientação valiosa para a melhoria do bem-estar animal, e segurança do trabalhador vindo a facilitar a padronização da pesquisa.

Validation of a one-tube nested real-time PCR assay for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in avian fecal samples / Validação da nested PCR em tempo real em um tubo para detecção de Cryptosporidium spp. em amostras fecais de aves

Abstract The aim of this study was to validate a one-tube nested real-time PCR assay followed by genetic sequencing to detect and identify Cryptosporidium species and genotypes in birds. A total of 443 genomic DNA extracted from avian fecal samples were analyzed by one-tube nested real-time PCR and conventional nested PCR. By one-tube nested real-time PCR, 90/443 (20.3%) samples were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. In contrast, 36/443 (8.1%) samples were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. by conventional nested PCR. The analytical sensitivity test showed that one-tube nested real-time PCR detects approximately 0.5 oocyst (2 sporozoites) per reaction. An evaluation of analytical specificity did not reveal amplification of microorganisms that commonly present nonspecific amplification with primers used for the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium spp. The repeatability analysis showed the same result in 27 out of 30 samples (90%). As for the reproducibility of one-tube nested real-time PCR, 24 of the 30 samples examined (80%) showed the same result. All the 90 samples amplified by one-tube real-time nested PCR were successfully sequenced, leading to the identification of C. baileyi, C. galli, C. meleagridis, C. proventriculi, and Cryptosporidium avian genotype I. Genetic sequencing of conventional nested PCR amplicons was successful in 10/36 (27.8%) of positive samples.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi validar um protocolo de nested PCR em tempo real em um tubo (nPCR-TR-1T) seguida de sequenciamento genético para detectar e caracterizar as espécies e genótipos de Cryptosporidium em aves. Um total de 443 amostras de DNA genômico, extraído de amostras fecais de aves, foi analisado pela nPCR-TR-1T e pela nested PCR convencional. Pela nPCR-TR-1T, foi observada positividade para Cryptosporidium spp. de 20,3% (90/443), em contraste com a nested PCR convencional, que apresentou positividade de 8,1% (36/443). O teste de sensibilidade analítica mostrou que a nPCR-TR-1T detecta aproximadamente 0,5 oocisto (2 esporozoítos) por reação. A avaliação da especificidade analítica não revelou amplificação de microrganismos que comumente apresentam amplificação inespecífica com primers utilizados para o diagnóstico de Cryptosporidium spp. O cálculo da repetibilidade evidenciou o mesmo resultado em 27 de 30 amostras (90%). Em relação à reprodutibilidade da nPCR-TR-1T, foi observado o mesmo resultado em 80% (24/30) das amostras examinadas. Foi possível realizar o sequenciamento em todas as 90 amostras amplificadas pela nPCR-TR-1T, com identificação de C. baileyi, C. galli, C. meleagridis, C. proventriculi e Cryptosporidium genótipo I em aves. O sequenciamento dos fragmentos amplificados pela nested PCR convencional foi possível em 10/36 (27,8%) das amostras positivas.

Methodology to filter out outliers in high spatial density data to improve maps reliability

ABSTRACT The considerable volume of data generated by sensors in the field presents systematic errors; thus, it is extremely important to exclude these errors to ensure mapping quality. The objective of this research was to develop and test a methodology to identify and exclude outliers in high-density spatial data sets, determine whether the developed filter process could help decrease the nugget effect and improve the spatial variability characterization of high sampling data. We created a filter composed of a global, anisotropic, and an anisotropic local analysis of data, which considered the respective neighborhood values. For that purpose, we used the median to classify a given spatial point into the data set as the main statistical parameter and took into account its neighbors within a radius. The filter was tested using raw data sets of corn yield, soil electrical conductivity (ECa), and the sensor vegetation index (SVI) in sugarcane. The results showed an improvement in accuracy of spatial variability within the data sets. The methodology reduced RMSE by 85 %, 97 %, and 79 % in corn yield, soil ECa, and SVI respectively, compared to interpolation errors of raw data sets. The filter excluded the local outliers, which considerably reduced the nugget effects, reducing estimation error of the interpolated data. The methodology proposed in this work had a better performance in removing outlier data when compared to two other methodologies from the literature.

Determination of risk factors in cattle and small ruminant livestock enterprises from the perspective of animal life insurance: a case study in Turkey / [Determinação dos fatores de risco em empresas de gado e pequenos ruminantes a partir da perspectiva do seguro de vida animal: um estudo de caso na Turquia]

The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors in the production processes of cattle and small ruminant breeding enterprises, along with developing a scale that could be used during the insured breeding process in different regions of Turkey. In this study, we obtained information from 252 enterprises from different provinces (Afyonkarahisar, Aksaray, Ankara, Burdur, Karaman, and Konya) of Turkey. Reliability and validity analyses were conducted using the "Risk Assessment Form in Cattle and Small Ruminant Animal Production". The Cronbach alpha (α) coefficient was used to analyze reliability, while the exploratory factor analysis was applied to analyze the validity. About 68.7% (173) of the enterprises included cattle breeding, while the remaining 31.3% (79) involved small ruminant breeding. To determine the risk factors, twenty-four questions were directed toward the livestock enterprises, and the following six factors were determined: Economic-Political Risks, Yield/Product Losses, Enterprise Technical Risks, Credit/Financing, Workforce, Enterprise Follow-up, and Registration. In the politico-economic risk scoring, the score of enterprises already having Animal life insurance (ALI) was observed to be higher than those who did not have it, with the difference being statistically significant (p<0.05). We interpreted that producers with higher politico-economic risk factor scores preferred insurance. Although the producers could determine the risk factors well, not all producers were necessarily aware of risk measures. Thus, it was necessary to improve the farmers' perception of risks and support their efforts to manage and reduce these risks. Also, the importance of insurance practices within and out of the farm is predicted to increase gradually to develop more conscious, sustainable, and profitable breeding in agriculture and animal product markets, which are becoming more liberalized day by day.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar os fatores de risco nos processos de produção de bovinos e pequenos ruminantes, juntamente com o desenvolvimento de uma escala que pudesse ser utilizada durante o processo de criação segurada em diferentes regiões da Turquia. Neste estudo, obtivemos informações de 252 empresas de diferentes províncias (Afyonkarahisar, Aksaray, Ankara, Burdur, Karaman e Konya) da Turquia. As análises de confiabilidade e validade foram realizadas utilizando o "Formulário de Avaliação de Risco na Produção Bovina e de Pequenos Animais Ruminantes". O coeficiente Cronbach alfa (α) foi usado para analisar a confiabilidade, enquanto a análise exploratória de fatores foi aplicada para analisar a validade. Cerca de 68,7% (173) das empresas incluíram a criação de gado, enquanto os restantes 31,3% (79) envolveram a criação de pequenos ruminantes. Para determinar os fatores de risco, vinte e quatro perguntas foram dirigidas aos empreendimentos pecuários, e os seis fatores seguintes foram determinados: Riscos Econômico-Políticos, Rendimento Perda de Produto, Riscos Técnicos da Empresa, Crédito/Financiamento, Força de Trabalho, Acompanhamento da Empresa e Registro. Na pontuação do risco político-econômico, a pontuação das empresas que já tinham seguro de vida animal (ALI) foi observada como sendo maior do que aquelas que não tinham, sendo a diferença estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05). Interpretamos que os produtores com pontuação mais alta no fator de risco político-econômico preferiam o seguro. Embora os produtores pudessem determinar bem os fatores de risco, nem todos os produtores estavam necessariamente cientes das medidas de risco. Assim, era necessário melhorar a percepção dos agricultores sobre os riscos e apoiar seus esforços para administrar e reduzir esses riscos. Além disso, a importância das práticas de seguro dentro e fora da fazenda deve aumentar gradualmente para desenvolver uma criação mais consciente, sustentável e lucrativa na agricultura e nos mercados de produtos animais, que estão se tornando mais liberalizados a cada dia.

Desenvolvimento de plataforma informatizada para o gerenciamento da inspeção e análise laboratorial de produtos de origem animal fornecidos ao exército brasileiro / Development of a computerized platform for inspection management and laboratory analysis of animal products supplied to the Brazilian army

O trabalho propôs o desenvolvimento de plataforma informatizada para apoio ao gerenciamento da inspeção e análise laboratorial de produtos de origem animal fornecidos à tropa do Exército Brasileiro. A pesquisa aplicada corresponde à modalidade de produção tecnológica, em três fases. A fase I foi realizada por meio do levantamento dos arquivos de Laudos Fiscais dos artigos de origem animal, impressos e emitidos pelo LIAB (Laboratório de Inspeção de Alimentos e Bromatologia) do 12º Batalhão de Suprimento, durante o período de janeiro a novembro de 2021, e dos arquivos referentes aos Boletins Técnicos do Exército Brasileiro (BT30.404- EB). A fase II correspondeu ao projeto e desenvolvimento da "Plataforma Alimentar - Rastreabilidade e Confiabilidade Garantida". Toda a programação desenvolvida foi armazenada em um servidor web terceirizado e pode ser acessada pelos LIABs pelo link: www.pmppa.com.br/alimentar. A plataforma informatizada utilizou a linguagem PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) associada às linguagens CSS (Cascading Style Sheet), HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language), JS (Java script) e bootstrap. A fase III consistiu na realização do teste de Caixa Preta. Os módulos disponíveis para inclusão das informações no sistema são: "cadastro dos artigos de origem animal"; "lançamento das análises"; "cadastro de Boletim Técnico" e "relatórios", os quais permitem atribuir ao artigo de origem animal a qualidade satisfatória ou insatisfatória para o consumo seguro da tropa, de acordo com a avaliação laboratorial das amostras. Houve, com eficácia, o desenvolvimento da plataforma, garantindo ao oficial médico veterinário uma ferramenta segura para apoio ao gerenciamento de qualidade dos produtos destinados à alimentação da tropa do Exército Brasileiro.

The study proposed the development of a computerized platform to support the inspection management and laboratory analysis of animal products supplied to the Brazilian Army troops. The applied research corresponds to the modality of technological production in three phases. Phase I consisted in survey from Fiscal Report Files of animal products, which was printed and issued by the FIBL (Food Inspection and Bromatology Laboratory) from the 12th Supply Battalion, from January to November 2021, and the Brazilian Army's Technical Bulletins (BT30.404-EB) Files. Phase II corresponded to design and development of the "Food Platform - Guaranteed Traceability and Reliability". All the developed programming stored at an outsourced web server by accessing the FIBLS through the link: www.pmppa.com.br/alimentar. The supportive computerized platform used the PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) language associated with the CSS (Cascading Style Sheet), HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language), JS (Java script) and bootstrap. Phase III consisted in performing a Black Box testing. The available modules for information inclusion in the system are the following issues: "Animal products registration"; "Analyses release"; "Technical Bulletin registration" and "Reports", which allow attributing the satisfactory or unsatisfactory quality to the animal products providing safe consumption for the troops, according to the evaluation of laboratory samples. The platform was effectively developed, guaranteeing the veterinary officer a safe tool to support the quality management of products intended for feeding the Brazilian Army troops.

Methodology to filter out outliers in high spatial density data to improve maps reliability

The considerable volume of data generated by sensors in the field presents systematic errors; thus, it is extremely important to exclude these errors to ensure mapping quality. The objective of this research was to develop and test a methodology to identify and exclude outliers in high-density spatial data sets, determine whether the developed filter process could help decrease the nugget effect and improve the spatial variability characterization of high sampling data. We created a filter composed of a global, anisotropic, and an anisotropic local analysis of data, which considered the respective neighborhood values. For that purpose, we used the median to classify a given spatial point into the data set as the main statistical parameter and took into account its neighbors within a radius. The filter was tested using raw data sets of corn yield, soil electrical conductivity (ECa), and the sensor vegetation index (SVI) in sugarcane. The results showed an improvement in accuracy of spatial variability within the data sets. The methodology reduced RMSE by 85 %, 97 %, and 79 % in corn yield, soil ECa, and SVI respectively, compared to interpolation errors of raw data sets. The filter excluded the local outliers, which considerably reduced the nugget effects, reducing estimation error of the interpolated data. The methodology proposed in this work had a better performance in removing outlier data when compared to two other methodologies from the literature.

Methodology to filter out outliers in high spatial density data to improve maps reliability

The considerable volume of data generated by sensors in the field presents systematic errors; thus, it is extremely important to exclude these errors to ensure mapping quality. The objective of this research was to develop and test a methodology to identify and exclude outliers in high-density spatial data sets, determine whether the developed filter process could help decrease the nugget effect and improve the spatial variability characterization of high sampling data. We created a filter composed of a global, anisotropic, and an anisotropic local analysis of data, which considered the respective neighborhood values. For that purpose, we used the median to classify a given spatial point into the data set as the main statistical parameter and took into account its neighbors within a radius. The filter was tested using raw data sets of corn yield, soil electrical conductivity (ECa), and the sensor vegetation index (SVI) in sugarcane. The results showed an improvement in accuracy of spatial variability within the data sets. The methodology reduced RMSE by 85 %, 97 %, and 79 % in corn yield, soil ECa, and SVI respectively, compared to interpolation errors of raw data sets. The filter excluded the local outliers, which considerably reduced the nugget effects, reducing estimation error of the interpolated data. The methodology proposed in this work had a better performance in removing outlier data when compared to two other methodologies from the literature.(AU)

Reference gene selection for quantitative PCR in liver, skeletal muscle, and jejunum of Bos indicus cattle

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the stability of candidate reference genes and select the genes that can be used for normalizing realtime polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the liver, skeletal muscle, and jejunum tissues of Nellore or Nellore × Angus steers fed different diets. Fourteen purebred and 14 crossbred steers were used, in which half of the animals of each genetic group received a diet containing whole shelled corn (WSC) and the other half whole shelled corn and sugarcane bagasse (WSCB). Stability was analyzed by the RefFinder program. To validate the selection of candidate reference genes, the expression of target genes was evaluated using the different groups of reference genes. The most stable genes were 18S, ACTB, and CASC3 for skeletal muscle; HMBS, ACTB, and 18S for the liver; and GAPDH, ACTB, and CASC3 for the jejunum, regardless of breed and diet provided. Possible errors caused in data analyses were clarified comparing the more and less stable genes as reference for normalization of the target genes FASN, ACOX, SCD1, MGAM, and SLC2A1. The use of the more stable and less stable sets of reference genes may lead to different conclusions in respect to the expression profile of the target studied gene. The selection of more suitable reference genes for each experiment is of utmost importance to ensure the reliability of gene expression studies so that they can be applied in practice.(AU)

Genetic evaluation of oocyte and embryo production in dairy Gir cattle using repeatability and random regression models

The objective of this work is to estimate genetic parameters and breeding values to improve embryo and oocyte production, using repeatability and random regression models (RRM) for Gir dairy cattle. We used 11,398 records of ovum pick-up from 1,747 dairy Gir donors and evaluated sixteen different models: the traditional repeatability model and fifteen RRM, each of which considered a different combination of Legendre polynomial regressors to describe the additive genetic and permanent environment effects. The 4G1P model (four regressors for the genetic effect and one regressor for the permanent environment effect) is the most suitable model to analyze the number of viable and total oocytes, while the 3G1P is the best model to analyze the number of cleaved and viable embryos, according to the values of the Akaike information criterion (AIC) and the Bayesian information criterion (BIC). The heritability estimated with the RRM was higher than that estimated with the repeatability model. The high repeatability reported for oocyte and embryo count traits indicates that donors, which had high oocyte and embryo counts in the first ovum pick-up, should maintain this result in the next ovum pick-up. Genetic correlations between adjacent ages were high and positive, while genetic correlations between extreme ages were weak. We observed a reranking of the top sires and females (heifers and cows) over the period evaluated. The reliability of the estimated breeding values by RRM showed changes across age, and the expected genetic gains by RRM are larger. This shows that RRM is most suitable alternative for the evaluation and selection of oocyte and embryo count traits.(AU)

Assessment of melatonin-alpha adrenergic receptor complexes by molecular docking analysis / Avaliação dos complexos melatonina-receptores alfa-adrenérgicos por análises de docagem molecular

The pineal melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a molecule associated in a way or another with probably all physiological systems, aiming to fulfil its functional integrative roles in central nervous system activity, sleep and wakefulness cycles, energy metabolism and thermoregulation, immune, reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory and excretory systems. Within this context, the present study aimed to assess in silico the formation of complexes between ligand melatonin and other potential receptor proteins by molecular docking analyses. The main steps established in this experimental procedure were: a) search and selection of the 3D structure of the melatonin from DrugBank; b) search and selection of 3D structures of other target receptor proteins using STRING, protein BLAST and database PDB; and c) formation of the complexes between melatonin and receptors selected using AutoDock4.0 server by molecular docking analyses. High reliability score and significant similarity were only identified between type 1B melatonin and alpha-2A adrenergic receptor. Thus, molecular docking assays were carried out using ligand melatonin and crystallographic structures of the alpha-2A adrenergic receptor coupled to an antagonist (ID PDB 6kux) and a partial agonist (ID PDB 6kuy) available in the database PDB. Binding energy values of -6.79 and -6.98 kcal/mol and structural stability by non-covalent intermolecular interactions were predicted during the formation of complexes between melatonin and alpha-2A adrenergic receptor 6kux and 6kuy, respectively. In this way, the findings described in current study may indicate strong interactions between melatonin and adrenoceptors, suggesting its possible partial agonist effect on the activation of the alfa-2A adrenergic receptor.(AU)

A melatonina pineal (N-acetil-5-metoxitriptamina) é uma molécula associada de um modo ou outro com provavelmente todos os sistemas fisiológicos, visando cumprir seus papéis funcionais integradores na atividade do sistema nervoso central, ciclos de sono e vigília, metabolismo energético e termorregulação, sistemas imunológico, reprodutivo, endócrino, cardiovascular, respiratório e excretor. Assim, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar in silico a formação de complexos entre o ligante melatonina e outras proteínas potenciais receptoras por meio de análises de docagem molecular. As principais etapas estabelecidas neste procedimento experimental foram: a) busca e seleção da estrutura 3D da melatonina a partir do banco de dados DrugBank; b) busca e seleção de estruturas 3D de outras proteínas receptoras-alvo utilizando STRING, proteína BLAST e o banco de dados PDB; e c) avaliação da formação dos complexos entre melatonina e receptores selecionados a partir do servidor AutoDock4.0 para análises de docagem molecular. Alto escore de confiabilidade e similaridade significativa foram identificados apenas entre a melatonina do tipo 1B e o receptor alfa-2A adrenérgico. Valores de energia de ligação de -6,79 e -6,98 kcal/mol e estabilidade estrutural pela presença de interações intermoleculares não covalentes foram preditos durante a formação de complexos entre o ligante melatonina e os receptores adrenérgico alfa-2A 6kux e 6kuy, respectivamente. Dessa forma, os achados descritos no presente estudo podem indicar fortes interações entre melatonina e adrenoceptores, sugerindo seu possível efeito agonista parcial na ativação do receptor alfa-2A adrenérgico.(AU)

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) for dogs with clinical signs of osteoarthritis and preliminary evidence of its clinical utility / Propriedades psicométricas da versão brasileira do Breve Inventário de Dor Canina (BIDC) em cães com sinais clínicos de osteoartrite e evidências preliminares da sua utilização clínica

This study aimed to determine the psychometric properties and clinical use of the Brazilian version of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) in dogs with hip dysplasia (HD). Forty-three dogs with HD and 16 clinically normal dogs were enrolled. The HD dogs were treated daily with 4.4mg/kg carprofen (GT = 21) or placebo (GP = 19), for four weeks. Owners completed the CBPI at two weeks (W-2) and immediately before the start of the treatment (W0), two (W2) and four (W4) weeks during treatment, and two weeks (W6) after the end of treatment. The internal structure was accessed, and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.97, indicating the high internal consistency of the instrument. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) suggested the retention of one component, which accounted for 78% of the variability. The ROC curve analysis concluded that the score 3 has an excellent performance to discriminate between normal and possible HD dogs (AUC of 0.973). There was no difference between dogs treated with carprofen versus placebo. The instrument in Portuguese showed construct and criterion validity and reliability to be used in dogs with HD.

Objetivou-se determinar as propriedades psicométricas e a utilidade clínica do Breve Inventário de Dor Canina na língua portuguesa, em cães com displasia coxofemoral (DCF). O inventário foi preenchido por tutores de 43 animais com DCF e por 16 tutores de cães saudáveis. Os animais com DCF foram tratados com carprofeno 4,4mg/kg (GT = 21) ou placebo (GP =19), administrados uma vez ao dia durante quatro semanas. As avaliações foram realizadas duas semanas e imediatamente antes do tratamento, duas e quatro semanas durante o tratamento e após duas semanas do término do tratamento. A estrutura interna calculada pelo alfa de Cronbach = 0,97 indicou alta consistência dos dados. A análise dos componentes principais identificou a retenção de apenas um componente responsável por 78% da variabilidade dos dados. A análise da curva ROC indicou que o escore 3 discrimina cães saudáveis de cães com possível DCF (ASC de 0,973). Não houve diferença entre os cães tratados com carprofeno daqueles que receberam placebo. O questionário apresentou validade de constructo e critério e confiabilidade e pode-se empregá-lo para avaliar a dor crônica em cães com osteoartrite em países de língua portuguesa.

Calibration of the Pilodyn instrument for the indirect in situ determination of the basic wood density of balsa / Calibração do instrumento Pilodyn para determinação indireta in situ da densidade básica da madeira de pau-de-balsa

Balsa wood is used widely in the nautical, aeronautical and wind-energy industries because of its low-density and high-resistance. In the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, speculative producers with little knowledge of the culture have established balsa plantations using non-standardized and non-selected seedlings. In this sense, research is needed to improve balsa cultivation under Brazilian conditions to better explore the resource. The present study evaluated the efficiency of the Pilodyn instrument for the indirect determination of the basic wood density (BWD) of balsa. Twenty 12-year old balsa trees cultivated in Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso, were probed with the Pilodyn instrument on both north and south faces of the trunk at the base and at 1.30 and 3.10 m from the ground. Wood discs were subsequently collected from the probed sites and BWD determined according to the water-immersion method. Data were submitted to the Shapiro-Wilk normality test followed by analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation analysis with α=0.05. The BWD of balsa decreased in the direction from the base to the top of the tree. The penetration depth of the Pilodyn probe was inversely proportional to BWD with a correlation that was strong (R2=0.72) at heights of 1.30 and 3.10 m but considered weak (R2=0.46) at the base of the trunk. The reliability of the Pilodyn method was sufficient to allow the development of a linear equation that could be applied for the indirect determination of the BWD of balsa based on the penetration depth of the Pilodyn probe assessed at 1.30 m from the ground.

O pau-de-balsa é amplamente utilizado nas indústrias náutica, aeronáutica e de energia eólica devido à sua baixa densidade. No estado de Mato Grosso, produtores especulativos de balsa têm estabelecido plantios sem conhecimento sólido da cultura usando mudas não padronizadas e não selecionadas. Pesquisas são necessárias para melhorar o cultivo de balsa sob condições brasileiras para melhor explorar este recurso. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência do instrumento Pilodyn para a determinação indireta da densidade básica da madeira (DBM) de balsa. Vinte árvores de 12 anos de idade cultivadas em Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso, foram avaliadas com o instrumento Pilodyn nas faces norte e sul do tronco, na base e a 1,30 e 3,10 m do solo. Discos de madeira foram posteriormente coletados dos locais sondados e o DBM determinado de acordo com o método de imersão em água. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk seguido de análise de variância e análise de correlação de Pearson com α=0,05. Os valores de DBM da balsa diminuiu da base em direção ao topo da árvore, enquanto a profundidade de penetração do Pilodyn foi inversamente proporcional. A correlação entre a profundidade de penetração do Pilodyn e o DBM foi fraca na base do tronco (R2=0,46), mas forte (R2=0,72) nos pontos de 1,30 e 3,10 m. O método Pilodyn foi suficientemente confiável que permitiu o desenvolvimento de uma equação para a determinação indireta do DBM do pau-de-balsa considerando o valor da profundidade de penetração a 1,30 m como uma das variáveis.

Economic impact of chronic pleural lesions and consequent disqualification of carcasses for export during inspection in swine slaughterhouses / Impacto econômico de lesões pleurais crônicas e consequente desqualificação de carcaças para exportação durante inspeção em frigoríficos de suínos

Chronic pleuritis is the main reason for sending pig carcasses to the Department of Final Inspection (DIF), condemnation and led to economic losses to industries and producers. Most pleura lesions detected after slaughter are sequelae from bacterial infections by agents that do not pose risks to pork consumers. The objective of the present study was to generate science-based information for decision making in the evaluation and destination of chronic pleuritis by the Federal Inspection Service (SIF). Therefore, 200 carcasses, with and without pleurisy, from a swine slaughterhouse with SIF were assessed following the visual classification of the inspection agent. The study was carried out in two stages. In stage 1, 50 carcasses with pneumonic lesions adjacent to chronic pleuritis and 50 carcasses with only chronic pleuritis lesions were evaluated, through macroscopy, histopathology, and bacterial culture. In stage 2, 50 swine carcasses with chronic pleuritis and 50 without this lesion were sampled in the parietal pleura region to bacterial culture and PCR. The economic impact of not exporting these carcasses with chronic pleuritis was also assessed. Considering the stages of evolution of the lesions, the macroscopic examination showed high correlation with the histological examination. There was no bacterial isolation through pleural swabs, regardless of the presence or not of adjacent pulmonary lesions. Isolation was restricted to the adjacent pulmonary lesions of 70% samples, with Pasteurella multocida type A found in 48% of them, followed by P. multocida type D and Streptococcus suis in 12%, and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in 3%. Only Streptococcus suis DNA was detected in 5/100 samples, with no correspondence to the isolation of viable bacteria. The reliability demonstrated in the macroscopic evaluation carried out during inspection, the absence of viable bacteria in the chronic pleural lesions, and the negative economic impact suggest that carcasses with chronic pleuritis can be submitted to pleura removal, with no need of sending to DIF.

Pleurite crônica é a principal causa do desvio de carcaças de suínos para o Departamento de Inspeção Final (DIF), podendo causar condenação e prejuízos econômicos às indústrias e produtores. A maioria das lesões de pleura detectadas após o abate são sequelas de infecções bacterianas por agentes que não oferecem riscos aos consumidores de carne suína. O objetivo do presente estudo foi gerar informações científicas para a tomada de decisão na avaliação e destino da pleurite crônica pelo Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF). Para tanto, 200 carcaças, com e sem pleurisia, provenientes de um frigorífico de suínos com SIF foram avaliadas seguindo a classificação visual do agente fiscalizador. O estudo foi realizado em duas etapas. No estágio 1, 50 carcaças com lesões pneumônicas adjacentes à pleurite crônica e 50 carcaças apresentando somente lesões de pleurite crônica foram avaliadas macroscopicamente, por histopatologia e cultura bacteriana. No estágio 2, 50 carcaças suínas com pleurite crônica e 50 sem esta lesão foram amostradas na região da pleura parietal para cultura bacteriana e PCR. O impacto econômico de não exportar essas carcaças com pleurite crônica também foi avaliado. Considerando os estágios de evolução das lesões, o exame macroscópico apresentou alta correlação com o exame histológico. Não houve isolamento bacteriano por meio de swabs pleurais, independentemente da presença ou não de lesões pulmonares adjacentes. O isolamento foi restrito às lesões pulmonares adjacentes de 70% das amostras, sendo Pasteurella multocida tipo A encontrado em 48% delas, seguido por P. multocida tipo D e Streptococcus suis em 12%, e Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae em 3%. Apenas DNA de Streptococcus suis foi detectado em 5/100 amostras, sem correspondência com o isolamento de bactérias viáveis. A confiabilidade demonstrada na avaliação macroscópica realizada durante a inspeção, a ausência de bactérias viáveis nas lesões pleurais crônicas e o impacto econômico negativo sugerem que carcaças com pleurite crônica podem ser submetidas à remoção da pleura, sem necessidade de envio para DIF.

Comparación de los valores de glucosa en caninos obtenidos con glucómetros portátiles y la prueba estándar de laboratorio / Comparação dos valores de glicose em caninos obtidos com glicômetros portáteis e o teste laboratorial padrão / Comparison of glucose values in dogs obtained with portable glucometers and the standard laboratory test

La medición de glucosa en caninos es un procedimiento habitual en la clínica diaria, actualmente este valor se puede obtener mediante dispositivos portátiles y pruebas laboratoriales. Se realizó esta investigación con el fin de aportar mayor conocimiento sobre la importancia de la medición de glucosa, ya que en los últimos años ha perdido valor entre las pruebas hematológicas a considerar debido a que solo se relaciona con determinadas patologías como la diabetes u otras enfermedades metabólicas. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo comparar los valores de glucosa en caninos obtenidos mediante un glucómetro portátil de uso humano (Accu-chek® Active, Roche Diagnostic, Mannheim, Alemania); veterinario (aLcose® Vet Glu, jjPlus Corporation, New Taipei, Taiwán) y la prueba estándar de laboratorio, esto nos indicará la fiabilidad de los resultados obtenidos mediante estos métodos. Se realizó la toma de muestras de sangre de 50 caninos clínicamente sanos, de los cuales se obtuvo el resultado de glucemia mediante estos tres métodos. Los resultados de nuestra investigación evidenciaron que las tres formas de evaluación de la glucosa sanguínea en perros brindaban resultados estadísticamente diferentes (p < 0.05). Se obtuvo valores de glucosa diferentes entre los tres métodos de medición, teniendo como promedios finales 84.14 mg/dL, 101.12 mg/dL y 91.12 mg/dL correspondientes al glucómetro portátil de uso humano, veterinario y a la prueba estándar de laboratorio respectivamente. En conclusión, los glucómetros portátiles de uso humano subestiman los valores reales de glucosa, mientras que los de uso veterinario lo sobreestiman, comparados con la prueba estándar de laboratorio.

A medição de glicose nos cães é um procedimento habitual realizado no atendimento clínico. Atualmente este valor pode ser obtido por meio de dispositivos portáteis e testes laboratoriais. Esta pesquisa foi realizada com a finalidade de destacar a importância da medição de glicose, visto que nos últimos anos esta avaliação não tem sido muito valorada entre os testes hematológicos, sendo considerada relevante apenas em relação a patologias como a diabetes e outras doenças metabólicas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo comparar os valores de glicose em cães obtidos com glicômetro portátil de uso humano; veterinário e o teste padrão de laboratório. Esta comparação poderá indicar a confiabilidade dos resultados obtidos mediante os métodos avaliados. Foi realizada a amostragem do sangue de 50 caninos clinicamente sadios os quais foram submetidos a avaliação de glicose mediante os três métodos. Os resultados de nossa investigação evidenciaram que as três formas de avaliação da glicose sanguínea têm resultados estatisticamente diferentes (p < 0,05). Os valores de glicose tiveram medias finais de 84,14 mg/dL, 101,12 mg/dL e 91,12 mg/dL para o glicômetro portátil de uso humano (Accu-chek® Active, Roche Diagnostic, Mannheim, Alemanha), veterinário (aLcose® Vet Glu, jjPlus Corporation, Nova Taipei, Taiwan) e o teste padrão de laboratório, respectivamente. Ao concluir, os glicômetros portáteis de uso humano subestimam os valores reais de glicose e os de uso veterinário os superestimam quando comparados com o teste padrão de laboratório.

The measurement of glucose in canines is a common procedure in daily clinical practice. Currently this value can be obtained by use of portable devices and laboratory tests. This research was carried out in order to provide more knowledge about the importance of glucose measurement, since in recent years it has lost value among the hematological tests to be considered because it is only related to certain pathologies such as diabetes or other metabolic diseases. The present study aimed to compare the glucose values in dogs obtained with a portable glucometer for human use, veterinarian use, and the standard laboratory test. This comparison may indicate the reliability of the results obtained through the evaluated methods. A blood sampling of 50 clinically healthy canines was taken and submitted to glucose evaluation using the three methods. Our investigation showed that the three ways of assessing blood glucose have statistically different results (p < 0.05). Glucose values had final averages of 84.14 mg/dL, 101.12 mg/dL, and 91.12 mg/dL for the portable glucometer for human use (Accu-chek® Active, Roche Diagnostic, Mannheim, Germany), veterinary (aLcose® Vet Glu, jjPlus Corporation, New Taipei, Taiwan) and the standard laboratory test, respectively. In conclusion, portable glucometers for human use underestimate the glucose values, and those for veterinary use overestimate them compared to the standard laboratory test.

Development and validation of a simulator for teaching minimally invasive thoracic surgery in Brazil

ABSTRACT Purpose To develop and validate a chest cavity simulator for teaching video-assited thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods The first phase of the study consisted of developing a chest cavity simulator. A quasi-experimental study was performed in the second phase, and 25 surgeons and residents participated in a three-stage pulmonary suture experiment. The videos were recorded and timed. Generalized linear regression models for repeated measures were used to analyze the outcome change over time. Results The chest cavity simulator consists of a console simulating the left hemithorax. Among the participants, 96% rated the design, visual aspect, positioning ergonomics, and triangulation of the portals as very good or excellent (face validity). There was a decrease in suturing time in step 1 from 435.7 ± 105 to 355.6 ± 76.8 seconds compared to step 3 (p = 0.001). The evaluation of the simulation effectiveness and performance (content validity) was rated as very good or excellent by 96% ofparticipants. The most experienced surgeon showed significant reduction in procedure time (p = 0.021) (construct validity). Conclusions The thoracic cavity simulator is realistic, showing content and construct validity, and can be used in VATS training. The simulation model allowed skill gain in the endoscopic suture.