Salt stress and organic fertilization on the growth and biochemical metabolism of Hylocereus costaricensis (red pitaya) seedlings / Estresse salino e fertilização orgânica sobre o crescimento e metabolismo bioquímico de mudas de Hylocereus costaricensis (pitaia vermelha)

Red pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis) is a promising species, with high cultivation potential due to the organoleptic and functional qualities of its fruits. However, irrigation water salinity can affect the crop yield. Therefore, materials rich in organic substances can minimize the damage caused by excess salts in soil and/or water. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of organic matter sources as attenuators of salt stress on the production and biochemical responses of red pitaya seedlings. A completely randomized design in 4 × 5 factorial scheme, with five sources of organic matter (humus, sheep manure, biofertilizer, organic compost and sand + soil) and four salinities (0.6, 2.6, 4.6 and 6.6 dS m-1) with four replicates and two plants per plot was used. The shoot length, root length, cladode diameter, number of cladodes, number of sprotus, root volume, shoot dry mass, root dry mass and total dry mass, root and shoot dry mass ratio, chlorophyll a, b and total, amino acids and soluble sugars were evaluated at 120 days after the treatments began to be applied. Red pitaya is moderately tolerant to salinity (ECw from 4.0 to 6.0 dS m-1). Organic compost and sheep manure attenuate the harmful effects of salinity on red pitaya seedlings. Under salt stress conditions, red pitaya plants increase their levels of proline, amino acids and total sugars.

A pitaia vermelha (Hylocereus costaricensis) é uma promissora espécie, com elevado potencial de cultivo devido às qualidades organolépticas e funcionais de seus frutos. Entretanto, a salinidade da água de irrigação pode afetar o rendimento produtivo da cultura. Diante disso, materiais ricos em substâncias orgânicas podem minimizar os danos provocados pelo excesso de sais no solo e/ou na água. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência de fontes de matéria orgânica como atenuante do estresse salino na produção e respostas bioquímicas de mudas de pitaia vermelha. O delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 4 × 5, com cinco fontes de matéria orgânica (húmus, esterco ovino, biofertilizante, composto orgânico e areia + solo) e quatro salinidade (0.6, 2.6, 4.6 e 6.6 dS m-1), com quatro repetições e duas plantas por vaso foi utilizado. O comprimento da parte aérea, comprimento da raiz, diâmetro do cladódio, número de cladódios, número de brotos, volume da raiz, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca da raiz e massa seca total, razão da massa seca da raiz e da parte aérea, clorofila a, b e total, aminoácidos e os açúcares solúveis foram avaliados aos 120 dias após o início da aplicação dos tratamentos. A pitaia vermelha é moderadamente tolerante a salinidade. O composto orgânico e estrume ovino atenuam os efeitos nocivos da salinidade nas mudas de pitaia vermelha. Sob condições de estresse salino, as plantas aumentam os níveis de aminoácidos e açúcares totais.

Salt stress and organic fertilization on the growth and biochemical metabolism of Hylocereus costaricensis (red pitaya) seedlings.

Red pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis) is a promising species, with high cultivation potential due to the organoleptic and functional qualities of its fruits. However, irrigation water salinity can affect the crop yield. Therefore, materials rich in organic substances can minimize the damage caused by excess salts in soil and/or water. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of organic matter sources as attenuators of salt stress on the production and biochemical responses of red pitaya seedlings. A completely randomized design in 4 × 5 factorial scheme, with five sources of organic matter (humus, sheep manure, biofertilizer, organic compost and sand + soil) and four salinities (0.6, 2.6, 4.6 and 6.6 dS m-1) with four replicates and two plants per plot was used. The shoot length, root length, cladode diameter, number of cladodes, number of sprotus, root volume, shoot dry mass, root dry mass and total dry mass, root and shoot dry mass ratio, chlorophyll a, b and total, amino acids and soluble sugars were evaluated at 120 days after the treatments began to be applied. Red pitaya is moderately tolerant to salinity (ECw from 4.0 to 6.0 dS m-1). Organic compost and sheep manure attenuate the harmful effects of salinity on red pitaya seedlings. Under salt stress conditions, red pitaya plants increase their levels of proline, amino acids and total sugars.

Yellow grease in sheep diets: intake and digestibility / [Óleo residual de fritura em dietas para ovinos: consumo e digestibilidade]

This study aimed to assess the effects of yellow grease supplementation on the intake, digestibility, and nitrogen balance in sheep. Twenty Santa Inês lambs with a mean age of 95 ± 10 d and body weight of 19.29 ± 3.17kg were evaluated in a completely randomized design. The diets were supplemented with oil at concentrations of 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 gkg-1 of dry matter (DM) of the concentrate. The diets were based on roughage and concentrate (50:50). The experimental period lasted 19 d and included 14 adaptation days and five collection days for the total supplied diet, orts, feces, and urine. Supplementation with yellow grease had no significant effect on the intake of DM, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), or non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC). However, the ether extract (EE) intake increased linearly with supplementation of yellow grease. Moreover, no effect was observed for DM, CP, NDF, and NFC digestibility and nitrogen balance. EE digestibility increased linearly with the yellow grease dietary supplementation. Thus, sheep dietary supplementation with yellow grease may be used at a level of up to 80 gkg-1 of DM of concentrate without impairing nutrient intake and digestibility.(AU)

Objetivou-se, com o estudo, avaliar os efeitos do óleo residual de fritura, em dietas para ovinos, sob o consumo, a digestibilidade e o balanço de nitrogênio. Foram utilizados 20 cordeiros Santa Inês, com idade de 95 ± 10 dias e peso corporal de 19,29 ± 3,17kg, em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso. As dietas continham óleo de fritura nas concentrações de 0; 20; 40; 60 e 80gkg-1 da matéria seca (MS) do concentrado. As dietas tinham relação volumoso:concentrado de 50:50. O período experimental foi de 19 dias, incluindo 14 dias em adaptação e cinco dias de coleta do fornecido, das sobras, das fezes e da urina. A suplementação com óleo de fritura não alterou o consumo de MS, proteína bruta (PB), matéria orgânica (MO), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF). Entretanto, o consumo de extrato etéreo (EE) aumentou com a inclusão do óleo. Não foi observado efeito na digestibilidade da MS, da PB, da FDN, dos CNF e no balanço de nitrogênio. A digestibilidade do EE aumentou com a inclusão do óleo. Assim, a inclusão de óleo de fritura em dietas para ovinos pode ser utilizada em até 80gkg-1 da MS do concentrado, sem limitar ingestão e digestibilidade dos nutrientes.(AU)

Boldine Attenuates Synaptic Failure and Mitochondrial Deregulation in Cellular Models of Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of senile dementia worldwide, characterized by both cognitive and behavioral deficits. Amyloid beta peptide (Aß) oligomers (AßO) have been found to be responsible for several pathological mechanisms during the development of AD, including altered cellular homeostasis and synaptic function, inevitably leading to cell death. Such AßO deleterious effects provide a way for identifying new molecules with potential anti-AD properties. Available treatments minimally improve AD symptoms and do not extensively target intracellular pathways affected by AßO. Naturally-derived compounds have been proposed as potential modifiers of Aß-induced neurodysfunction and cytotoxicity based on their availability and chemical diversity. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate boldine, an alkaloid derived from the bark and leaves of the Chilean tree Peumus boldus, and its capacity to block some dysfunctional processes caused by AßO. We examined the protective effect of boldine (1-10 µM) in primary hippocampal neurons and HT22 hippocampal-derived cell line treated with AßO (24-48 h). We found that boldine interacts with Aß in silico affecting its aggregation and protecting hippocampal neurons from synaptic failure induced by AßO. Boldine also normalized changes in intracellular Ca2+ levels associated to mitochondria or endoplasmic reticulum in HT22 cells treated with AßO. In addition, boldine completely rescued the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and the increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and attenuated AßO-induced decrease in mitochondrial respiration in HT22 hippocampal cells. We conclude that boldine provides neuroprotection in AD models by both direct interactions with Aß and by preventing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Additional studies are required to evaluate the effect of boldine on cognitive and behavioral deficits induced by Aß in vivo.

Phytoplankton scenario and microcystin in water during extreme drought in semiarid tropical water supplies, Northeastern Brazil / Cenário de fitoplanctônico e microcistinas na água durante extrema estiagem em reservatórios tropical semiárido de abastecimento de água, nordeste do Brasil

The objective of this study was to characterize the limnological, microystin and phytoplankton community of five tropical eutrophic reservoirs located in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region, used for domestic use at the time of extreme drought and reduction of water volume. The study was conducted in July and August 2015, and an integrated sample of the water column was collected at three points near the dam in each reservoir. Analysis of limnological parameters, identification and quantification of phytoplankton, with emphasis on cyanobacteria were performed, as well as detection of microcystin by means of immunoassay (ELISA). The reservoirs presented ~ 90% water volume reduction. High turbidity and concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as high cyanobacterial densities, revealed an increase in the eutrophic state for hypereutrophy. The total biovolume of phytoplankton and cyanobacterial density is high, plus an average increase in relation to previous studies of 350% and 150%, respectively. The density of cyanobacteria and microcystin concentration presented values ​​above acceptable levels for drinking water according to Brazilian legislation. A phytoplankton community was represented by 17 functional groups, including potentially toxic cyanobacteria species such as Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Our results confirm that conditions of extreme drought and reduction of the volume of the reservoirs influence the composition, biovolume of phytoplankton and water quality, but not the increase of total microcystin in the analysed, although above 1μg-1 registered a significant decrease of water quality in used for human consumption.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade limnológica, microistalina e fitoplanctônica de cinco reservatórios eutróficos tropicais localizados no semi-árido nordestino brasileiro, utilizados para uso doméstico no período de seca extrema e redução do volume de água. O estudo foi realizado em julho e agosto de 2015, e uma amostra integrada da coluna de água foi coletada em três pontos próximos à barragem em cada reservatório. Análises de parâmetros limnológicos, identificação e quantificação do fitoplâncton, com ênfase em cianobactérias, foram realizadas, assim como a detecção de microcistina por meio de imunoensaio (ELISA). Os reservatórios apresentaram ~ 90% de redução do volume de água. A alta turbidez e as concentrações de nitrogênio e fósforo, bem como as altas densidades de cianobactérias, revelaram um aumento no estado eutrófico da hipereutrofia. O biovolume total de fitoplâncton e densidade de cianobactérias é alto, além de um aumento médio em relação a estudos anteriores de 350% e 150%, respectivamente. A densidade de cianobactérias e a concentração de microcistina apresentaram valores acima dos níveis aceitáveis ​​para água de consumo, de acordo com a legislação brasileira. Uma comunidade fitoplanctônica foi representada por 17 grupos funcionais, incluindo espécies de cianobactérias potencialmente tóxicas, como Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Nossos resultados confirmam que condições de seca extrema e redução do volume dos reservatórios influenciam a composição, o biovolume de fitoplâncton e a qualidade da água, mas não o aumento do total de microcistina no analisado, embora acima de 1μg-1 tenha registrado uma diminuição significativa da qualidade da água usado para consumo humano.(AU)

Phytoplankton scenario and microcystin in water during extreme drought in semiarid tropical water supplies, Northeastern Brazil / Cenário de fitoplanctônico e microcistinas na água durante extrema estiagem em reservatórios tropical semiárido de abastecimento de água, nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize the limnological, microystin and phytoplankton community of five tropical eutrophic reservoirs located in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region, used for domestic use at the time of extreme drought and reduction of water volume. The study was conducted in July and August 2015, and an integrated sample of the water column was collected at three points near the dam in each reservoir. Analysis of limnological parameters, identification and quantification of phytoplankton, with emphasis on cyanobacteria were performed, as well as detection of microcystin by means of immunoassay (ELISA). The reservoirs presented ~ 90% water volume reduction. High turbidity and concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as high cyanobacterial densities, revealed an increase in the eutrophic state for hypereutrophy. The total biovolume of phytoplankton and cyanobacterial density is high, plus an average increase in relation to previous studies of 350% and 150%, respectively. The density of cyanobacteria and microcystin concentration presented values ​​above acceptable levels for drinking water according to Brazilian legislation. A phytoplankton community was represented by 17 functional groups, including potentially toxic cyanobacteria species such as Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Our results confirm that conditions of extreme drought and reduction of the volume of the reservoirs influence the composition, biovolume of phytoplankton and water quality, but not the increase of total microcystin in the analysed, although above 1μg-1 registered a significant decrease of water quality in used for human consumption.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade limnológica, microistalina e fitoplanctônica de cinco reservatórios eutróficos tropicais localizados no semi-árido nordestino brasileiro, utilizados para uso doméstico no período de seca extrema e redução do volume de água. O estudo foi realizado em julho e agosto de 2015, e uma amostra integrada da coluna de água foi coletada em três pontos próximos à barragem em cada reservatório. Análises de parâmetros limnológicos, identificação e quantificação do fitoplâncton, com ênfase em cianobactérias, foram realizadas, assim como a detecção de microcistina por meio de imunoensaio (ELISA). Os reservatórios apresentaram ~ 90% de redução do volume de água. A alta turbidez e as concentrações de nitrogênio e fósforo, bem como as altas densidades de cianobactérias, revelaram um aumento no estado eutrófico da hipereutrofia. O biovolume total de fitoplâncton e densidade de cianobactérias é alto, além de um aumento médio em relação a estudos anteriores de 350% e 150%, respectivamente. A densidade de cianobactérias e a concentração de microcistina apresentaram valores acima dos níveis aceitáveis ​​para água de consumo, de acordo com a legislação brasileira. Uma comunidade fitoplanctônica foi representada por 17 grupos funcionais, incluindo espécies de cianobactérias potencialmente tóxicas, como Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Nossos resultados confirmam que condições de seca extrema e redução do volume dos reservatórios influenciam a composição, o biovolume de fitoplâncton e a qualidade da água, mas não o aumento do total de microcistina no analisado, embora acima de 1μg-1 tenha registrado uma diminuição significativa da qualidade da água usado para consumo humano.

Phytoplankton scenario and microcystin in water during extreme drought in semiarid tropical water supplies, Northeastern Brazil.

The objective of this study was to characterize the limnological, microystin and phytoplankton community of five tropical eutrophic reservoirs located in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region, used for domestic use at the time of extreme drought and reduction of water volume. The study was conducted in July and August 2015, and an integrated sample of the water column was collected at three points near the dam in each reservoir. Analysis of limnological parameters, identification and quantification of phytoplankton, with emphasis on cyanobacteria were performed, as well as detection of microcystin by means of immunoassay (ELISA). The reservoirs presented ~ 90% water volume reduction. High turbidity and concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as high cyanobacterial densities, revealed an increase in the eutrophic state for hypereutrophy. The total biovolume of phytoplankton and cyanobacterial density is high, plus an average increase in relation to previous studies of 350% and 150%, respectively. The density of cyanobacteria and microcystin concentration presented values ​​above acceptable levels for drinking water according to Brazilian legislation. A phytoplankton community was represented by 17 functional groups, including potentially toxic cyanobacteria species such as Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Our results confirm that conditions of extreme drought and reduction of the volume of the reservoirs influence the composition, biovolume of phytoplankton and water quality, but not the increase of total microcystin in the analysed, although above 1µg-1 registered a significant decrease of water quality in used for human consumption.

Apparent selectivity of sheep in deferred marandu palisadegrass pastures with variable initial heights / Seletividade aparente de ovinos em pastos de capim-marandu diferidos com alturas iniciais variáveis

The objective of this study was to evaluate the apparent selectivity of sheep in marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) pastures with four heights at the beginning of the deferment period (15, 25, 35 and 45cm). The deferment period was 92 days and started on 03/21/2014. Evaluations occurred in the beginning (first week), middle (45th day) and end (92nd day) of the grazing period, in winter (06/21/2014 to 09/21/2014). Deferred pastures with 15 and 25cm presented lower forage mass (FM), but higher live leaf (LL) percentage in FM than deferred pastures with 35 and 45cm. The live stem percentage in the FM and the apparent selectivity index (ASI) of the LL were superior in the deferred pasture with 45cm. The dead stem (DS) percentage in the grazing simulation (GS) and the ASI of this morphological component were lower in the pasture with 15cm, compared to the deferred pasture with 45cm. The FM and the LL percentages in FM and in the GS sample decreased, while the DS percentages in FM and in GS sample increased with the grazing period. Marandu palisadegrass with 15cm at beginning of the deferment period improves the morphology of the deferred pasture. Selective grazing is difficult during the grazing period.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a seletividade aparente de ovinos em pastos de capim-marandu (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) com quatro alturas no início do diferimento (15, 25, 35 e 45cm). O período de diferimento foi de 92 dias e iniciou em 21/03/2014. As avaliações ocorreram no início (primeira semana), meio (45° dia) e fim (92° dia) do período de pastejo, no inverno (21/06/2014 a 21/09/2014). Os pastos diferidos com 15 e 25cm apresentaram menor massa de forragem (MF), mas maior percentual de folha viva (FV) na MF do que os pastos diferidos com 35 e 45cm. O percentual de colmo vivo na MF e o índice de seletividade aparente (ISA) da FV foram superiores no pasto diferido com 45cm. O percentual de colmo morto (CM) na simulação de pastejo (SP) e o ISA desse componente morfológico foram menores no pasto diferido com 15cm, em comparação ao diferido com 45cm. A MF e os percentuais de FV na MF e na amostra de SP se reduziram, enquanto os percentuais de CM na MF e na amostra de SP aumentaram com o período de pastejo. O capim-marandu com 15cm no início do período de diferimento melhora a morfologia do pasto diferido. O pastejo seletivo é dificultado no decorrer do período de pastejo.(AU)

Apparent selectivity of sheep in deferred marandu palisadegrass pastures with variable initial heights / Seletividade aparente de ovinos em pastos de capim-marandu diferidos com alturas iniciais variáveis

The objective of this study was to evaluate the apparent selectivity of sheep in marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) pastures with four heights at the beginning of the deferment period (15, 25, 35 and 45cm). The deferment period was 92 days and started on 03/21/2014. Evaluations occurred in the beginning (first week), middle (45th day) and end (92nd day) of the grazing period, in winter (06/21/2014 to 09/21/2014). Deferred pastures with 15 and 25cm presented lower forage mass (FM), but higher live leaf (LL) percentage in FM than deferred pastures with 35 and 45cm. The live stem percentage in the FM and the apparent selectivity index (ASI) of the LL were superior in the deferred pasture with 45cm. The dead stem (DS) percentage in the grazing simulation (GS) and the ASI of this morphological component were lower in the pasture with 15cm, compared to the deferred pasture with 45cm. The FM and the LL percentages in FM and in the GS sample decreased, while the DS percentages in FM and in GS sample increased with the grazing period. Marandu palisadegrass with 15cm at beginning of the deferment period improves the morphology of the deferred pasture. Selective grazing is difficult during the grazing period.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a seletividade aparente de ovinos em pastos de capim-marandu (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) com quatro alturas no início do diferimento (15, 25, 35 e 45cm). O período de diferimento foi de 92 dias e iniciou em 21/03/2014. As avaliações ocorreram no início (primeira semana), meio (45° dia) e fim (92° dia) do período de pastejo, no inverno (21/06/2014 a 21/09/2014). Os pastos diferidos com 15 e 25cm apresentaram menor massa de forragem (MF), mas maior percentual de folha viva (FV) na MF do que os pastos diferidos com 35 e 45cm. O percentual de colmo vivo na MF e o índice de seletividade aparente (ISA) da FV foram superiores no pasto diferido com 45cm. O percentual de colmo morto (CM) na simulação de pastejo (SP) e o ISA desse componente morfológico foram menores no pasto diferido com 15cm, em comparação ao diferido com 45cm. A MF e os percentuais de FV na MF e na amostra de SP se reduziram, enquanto os percentuais de CM na MF e na amostra de SP aumentaram com o período de pastejo. O capim-marandu com 15cm no início do período de diferimento melhora a morfologia do pasto diferido. O pastejo seletivo é dificultado no decorrer do período de pastejo.(AU)

Standard operational procedure: crime scene evaluation related to animal cruelty in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Procedimento operacional padrão: avaliação da cena do crime relacionada à crueldade animal no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The Brazilian legislation on crimes against fauna defines as a crime: “to commit acts of abuse, mistreatment, injury or mutilation of wild, domestic or domesticated, native or exotic animals” (BRASIL, 1998). In recent years, the number of crimes against fauna has gained great notoriety, and due to the high demand for this type of exam, it is crucial to improve the experts reports on such offenses. Therefore, the State has the responsibility of correctly identifying and preserving evidences related to animal abuse (YOSHIDA, 2013). A satisfactory collection of vestiges is indispensable, since “findings are pieces of a puzzle that together tell a story” (MERCK, 2007). Currently in the state of Rio de Janeiro most of the examinations of crime scenes involving animals are carried out by forensic experts who are not veterinarians, due to the reduced number of these professionals in Scientific Police. In this regard, a standard operating procedure is essential for performing crime scene investigations involving animals because well collected evidence and proper crime scene analyses are fundamental for helping crime solution. Criminal expertise involves technical--scientific knowledge, intended to clarify traces and interpret facts in the face of criminal or suspicious events (TREMORI; SOUZA, 2013). Thus, this work aims to implement a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) used as an instrument to produce evidences, which will guide law enforcement.(AU)

Standard operational procedure: crime scene evaluation related to animal cruelty in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Procedimento operacional padrão: avaliação da cena do crime relacionada à crueldade animal no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The Brazilian legislation on crimes against fauna defines as a crime: “to commit acts of abuse, mistreatment, injury or mutilation of wild, domestic or domesticated, native or exotic animals” (BRASIL, 1998). In recent years, the number of crimes against fauna has gained great notoriety, and due to the high demand for this type of exam, it is crucial to improve the experts’ reports on such offenses. Therefore, the State has the responsibility of correctly identifying and preserving evidences related to animal abuse (YOSHIDA, 2013). A satisfactory collection of vestiges is indispensable, since “findings are pieces of a puzzle that together tell a story” (MERCK, 2007). Currently in the state of Rio de Janeiro most of the examinations of crime scenes involving animals are carried out by forensic experts who are not veterinarians, due to the reduced number of these professionals in Scientific Police. In this regard, a standard operating procedure is essential for performing crime scene investigations involving animals because well collected evidence and proper crime scene analyses are fundamental for helping crime solution. Criminal expertise involves technical--scientific knowledge, intended to clarify traces and interpret facts in the face of criminal or suspicious events (TREMORI; SOUZA, 2013). Thus, this work aims to implement a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) used as an instrument to produce evidences, which will guide law enforcement.

Phytoplankton scenario and microcystin in water during extreme drought in semiarid tropical water supplies, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize the limnological, microystin and phytoplankton community of five tropical eutrophic reservoirs located in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region, used for domestic use at the time of extreme drought and reduction of water volume. The study was conducted in July and August 2015, and an integrated sample of the water column was collected at three points near the dam in each reservoir. Analysis of limnological parameters, identification and quantification of phytoplankton, with emphasis on cyanobacteria were performed, as well as detection of microcystin by means of immunoassay (ELISA). The reservoirs presented ~ 90% water volume reduction. High turbidity and concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as high cyanobacterial densities, revealed an increase in the eutrophic state for hypereutrophy. The total biovolume of phytoplankton and cyanobacterial density is high, plus an average increase in relation to previous studies of 350% and 150%, respectively. The density of cyanobacteria and microcystin concentration presented values above acceptable levels for drinking water according to Brazilian legislation. A phytoplankton community was represented by 17 functional groups, including potentially toxic cyanobacteria species such as Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Our results confirm that conditions of extreme drought and reduction of the volume of the reservoirs influence the composition, biovolume of phytoplankton and water quality, but not the increase of total microcystin in the analysed, although above 1g-1 registered a significant decrease of water quality in used for human consumption.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade limnológica, microistalina e fitoplanctônica de cinco reservatórios eutróficos tropicais localizados no semi-árido nordestino brasileiro, utilizados para uso doméstico no período de seca extrema e redução do volume de água. O estudo foi realizado em julho e agosto de 2015, e uma amostra integrada da coluna de água foi coletada em três pontos próximos à barragem em cada reservatório. Análises de parâmetros limnológicos, identificação e quantificação do fitoplâncton, com ênfase em cianobactérias, foram realizadas, assim como a detecção de microcistina por meio de imunoensaio (ELISA). Os reservatórios apresentaram ~ 90% de redução do volume de água. A alta turbidez e as concentrações de nitrogênio e fósforo, bem como as altas densidades de cianobactérias, revelaram um aumento no estado eutrófico da hipereutrofia. O biovolume total de fitoplâncton e densidade de cianobactérias é alto, além de um aumento médio em relação a estudos anteriores de 350% e 150%, respectivamente. A densidade de cianobactérias e a concentração de microcistina apresentaram valores acima dos níveis aceitáveis para água de consumo, de acordo com a legislação brasileira. Uma comunidade fitoplanctônica foi representada por 17 grupos funcionais, incluindo espécies de cianobactérias potencialmente tóxicas, como Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Nossos resultados confirmam que condições de seca extrema e redução do volume dos reservatórios influenciam a composição, o biovolume de fitoplâncton e a qualidade da água, mas não o aumento do total de microcistina no analisado, embora acima de 1g-1 tenha registrado uma diminuição significativa da qualidade da água usado para consumo humano.

O capim-marandu baixo no início do diferimento melhora a morfologia do pasto e aumenta o desempenho dos ovinos no inverno / The low marandu palisadegrass at the beginning of stockpiling improves pasture morphology and increases sheep performance in winter

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de quatro alturas (15, 25, 35 e 45cm) da Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (capim-marandu) no início do diferimento sobre a morfologia do pasto, a seletividade e o desempenho de ovinos no início, meio e fim do período de pastejo, no inverno. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três repetições. Os pastos diferidos com 35 e 45cm apresentaram maiores massas de forragem do que aqueles diferidos com 15 e 25cm. O pasto diferido com 15cm apresentou maior porcentagem de folha e menor percentual de colmo morto, em comparação aos demais pastos. A seleção por folha morta aumentou no período de pastejo. Em geral, nos pastos diferidos mais altos, os percentuais de folha viva foram menores e os de colmo morto, maiores nas amostras de pastejo simulado. O desempenho dos ovinos foi superior no pasto diferido com 15cm, intermediário nos pastos diferidos com 25 e 35cm, e inferior no pasto diferido com 45cm. A manutenção do capim-marandu com 15cm no início do diferimento resulta em pasto com melhor morfologia, otimiza a seletividade e aumenta o desempenho dos ovinos no inverno.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of four heights (15, 25, 35, and 45cm) of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (marandu palisadegrass) at the beginning of the deferment period on the pasture morphology, selectivity, and performance of sheep during the beginning, middle and end of the grazing period in winter. A completely randomized design with three replications was used. Deferred pastures with 35 and 45cm presented larger forage masses than those deferred with 15 and 25cm. Deferred pasture with 15cm presented a higher percentage of live leaf and a lower percentage of dead stem. Dead leaf selection increased during the grazing period. In general, in the higher deferred pastures, the percentages of live leaf were lower and those of dead stalk, higher in the samples of simulated grazing. The sheep performance was higher in the 15cm pasture, intermediate in the 25 and 35cm pastures, and inferior in the 45cm pasture. The maintenance of marandu palisadegrass with 15cm at the beginning of the deferment period results in deferred pasture with better morphology, optimizes the selectivity and the increase the performance of the sheep in the pasture deferred during the winter.(AU)

O capim-marandu baixo no início do diferimento melhora a morfologia do pasto e aumenta o desempenho dos ovinos no inverno / The low marandu palisadegrass at the beginning of stockpiling improves pasture morphology and increases sheep performance in winter

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de quatro alturas (15, 25, 35 e 45cm) da Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (capim-marandu) no início do diferimento sobre a morfologia do pasto, a seletividade e o desempenho de ovinos no início, meio e fim do período de pastejo, no inverno. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três repetições. Os pastos diferidos com 35 e 45cm apresentaram maiores massas de forragem do que aqueles diferidos com 15 e 25cm. O pasto diferido com 15cm apresentou maior porcentagem de folha e menor percentual de colmo morto, em comparação aos demais pastos. A seleção por folha morta aumentou no período de pastejo. Em geral, nos pastos diferidos mais altos, os percentuais de folha viva foram menores e os de colmo morto, maiores nas amostras de pastejo simulado. O desempenho dos ovinos foi superior no pasto diferido com 15cm, intermediário nos pastos diferidos com 25 e 35cm, e inferior no pasto diferido com 45cm. A manutenção do capim-marandu com 15cm no início do diferimento resulta em pasto com melhor morfologia, otimiza a seletividade e aumenta o desempenho dos ovinos no inverno.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of four heights (15, 25, 35, and 45cm) of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (marandu palisadegrass) at the beginning of the deferment period on the pasture morphology, selectivity, and performance of sheep during the beginning, middle and end of the grazing period in winter. A completely randomized design with three replications was used. Deferred pastures with 35 and 45cm presented larger forage masses than those deferred with 15 and 25cm. Deferred pasture with 15cm presented a higher percentage of live leaf and a lower percentage of dead stem. Dead leaf selection increased during the grazing period. In general, in the higher deferred pastures, the percentages of live leaf were lower and those of dead stalk, higher in the samples of simulated grazing. The sheep performance was higher in the 15cm pasture, intermediate in the 25 and 35cm pastures, and inferior in the 45cm pasture. The maintenance of marandu palisadegrass with 15cm at the beginning of the deferment period results in deferred pasture with better morphology, optimizes the selectivity and the increase the performance of the sheep in the pasture deferred during the winter.(AU)

Phytoplankton scenario and microcystin in water during extreme drought in semiarid tropical water supplies, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize the limnological, microystin and phytoplankton community of five tropical eutrophic reservoirs located in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region, used for domestic use at the time of extreme drought and reduction of water volume. The study was conducted in July and August 2015, and an integrated sample of the water column was collected at three points near the dam in each reservoir. Analysis of limnological parameters, identification and quantification of phytoplankton, with emphasis on cyanobacteria were performed, as well as detection of microcystin by means of immunoassay (ELISA). The reservoirs presented ~ 90% water volume reduction. High turbidity and concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as high cyanobacterial densities, revealed an increase in the eutrophic state for hypereutrophy. The total biovolume of phytoplankton and cyanobacterial density is high, plus an average increase in relation to previous studies of 350% and 150%, respectively. The density of cyanobacteria and microcystin concentration presented values above acceptable levels for drinking water according to Brazilian legislation. A phytoplankton community was represented by 17 functional groups, including potentially toxic cyanobacteria species such as Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Our results confirm that conditions of extreme drought and reduction of the volume of the reservoirs influence the composition, biovolume of phytoplankton and water quality, but not the increase of total microcystin in the analysed, although above 1g-1 registered a significant decrease of water quality in used for human consumption.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade limnológica, microistalina e fitoplanctônica de cinco reservatórios eutróficos tropicais localizados no semi-árido nordestino brasileiro, utilizados para uso doméstico no período de seca extrema e redução do volume de água. O estudo foi realizado em julho e agosto de 2015, e uma amostra integrada da coluna de água foi coletada em três pontos próximos à barragem em cada reservatório. Análises de parâmetros limnológicos, identificação e quantificação do fitoplâncton, com ênfase em cianobactérias, foram realizadas, assim como a detecção de microcistina por meio de imunoensaio (ELISA). Os reservatórios apresentaram ~ 90% de redução do volume de água. A alta turbidez e as concentrações de nitrogênio e fósforo, bem como as altas densidades de cianobactérias, revelaram um aumento no estado eutrófico da hipereutrofia. O biovolume total de fitoplâncton e densidade de cianobactérias é alto, além de um aumento médio em relação a estudos anteriores de 350% e 150%, respectivamente. A densidade de cianobactérias e a concentração de microcistina apresentaram valores acima dos níveis aceitáveis para água de consumo, de acordo com a legislação brasileira. Uma comunidade fitoplanctônica foi representada por 17 grupos funcionais, incluindo espécies de cianobactérias potencialmente tóxicas, como Planktothrix agardhii (S1), Microcystis aeruginosa (M), Anabaena planktonica e Anabaena spp. (H1), Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Sn). Nossos resultados confirmam que condições de seca extrema e redução do volume dos reservatórios influenciam a composição, o biovolume de fitoplâncton e a qualidade da água, mas não o aumento do total de microcistina no analisado, embora acima de 1g-1 tenha registrado uma diminuição significativa da qualidade da água usado para consumo humano.

Study on the practices of silage production and utilization on Brazilian dairy farms.

Dairy farmers across Brazil were invited to participate in a study on silage production and utilization practices. Two hundred sixty farmers filled out a questionnaire, which was made available on a website. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions, including information about the characteristics of the herd (n=3), the crop(s) used in the ensiling process, the use of additives, the harvest (n=3), the type of silo (n=1), aspects related to sealing (n=2), and management practices applied during feed-out (n=3). Farmers were also asked a final question about the main barriers they faced when producing and using silage. The main dairy-producing regions of Brazil had a strong influence on the number of participants. The profiles of farmers were heterogeneous and divided into 5 groups, which was considered a positive attribute of the study, allowing better analysis and assessment of current circumstances. Corn was the most widely grown crop for silage. Sorghum, tropical grasses, and sugarcane were the other species most cited. Additives were used by a small number of farmers (27.7%). Approximately 40% of farmers still depended on loaned equipment or outsourced services. The pull-type forage harvester was the main piece of equipment used on dairy farms (90.4%). Only 54.6% of respondents answered that they sharpen their harvester knives daily. Horizontal silos (bunker and stack) were the structures most commonly used to store silage. Most farmers sealed silos with double-sided plastic film (black-on-white) and with soil. However, almost one-fifth of all farmers still use black plastic. Manual removal of silage from the silos was practiced at most farms (i.e., the lack of equipment was also reflected in the stage of silage utilization). Disposal of spoiled silage before inclusion in the livestock feed was not a common practice on the farms. The main barriers encountered on the farms were lack of equipment, lack of manpower, and climatic variations. The results of this research may guide researchers, industries, extension workers, and governments to seek efficiency in milk production on farms using silage in the diet of livestock throughout the year or during part of the year in Brazil.

Redescription of Tejidotaenia appendiculata (Baylis, 1947) (Cestoda: proteocephalidea), a parasite of Tupinambis teguixin (Sauria: teiidae) from South America.

The species Tejidotaenia appendiculata (Baylis, 1947), a parasite found in teju, Tupinambis teguixin is redescribed and a new diagnosis is provided. The species is characterized by the anterior position of the ovary and the peculiar shape of suckers. It is the first record of this species in Brazil.

[Euzetiella tetraphylliformis n. gen., n. sp., (Eucestoda: Proteocephalidae), parasite of the neotropical sweat-water fish Paulicea luetkeni (Siluriforme, Pimelodidae)]. / Euzetiella tetraphylliformis n. gen., n. sp., (Eucestoda: Proteocephalidae), parasite du poisson d'eau douce néotropical Paulicea luetkeni (Siluriforme, Pimelodidae).

Description of a new genus and new species of proteocephalid tapeworm in Paulicea luetkeni, which shows superficial resemblance to tetraphyllids, especially in its gravid proglottides. Euzetiella tetraphylliformis belongs to the Proteocephalidae, Proteocephalinae due to the presence of medullary gonads as well as the shape of the scolex and the presence of uniloculate suckers. Furthermore, this species is characterized by an apolytic strobila, which represents an exception within the Proteocephalidea.

Chondroma in rufescent tiger-heron (Tigrisoma leneatum): case report / Condroma em socó-boi (Tigrisoma leneatum): relato de caso

The paper describes a chondroma affecting the left metacarpus of a free-ranging rufescent tiger-heron (Tigrisoma lineatum). There are very few reports of such neoplastic process in this avian species.(AU)

Relata-se a ocorrência de neoplasia em Tigrisoma lineatum (socó-boi), localizada na região metacarpiana esquerda, caracterizada histologicamente como condroma. Este é um dos primeiros relatos desta patologia em indivíduos desta espécie.(AU)