In vivo analysis the effect of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), Oxytetracycline di-hydrate and Tylosin phosphate on the intestinal microflora in broiler chicken / Análise in vivo do efeito de antibióticos promotores de crescimento (AGPs), di-hidrato de oxitetraciclina e fosfato de tilosina na microflora intestinal em frangos de corte

The study was aimed to analyse the effects of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), Oxytetracycline di-hydrate and Tylosin phosphate on the intestinal microflora in broiler chicken. The AGPs were provided in different concentrations solely or in combinations for 42 days of rearing. Faecal samples were collected from the intestine (duodenum, jejunum and caeca) of broiler chicken on 14th, 28th and 42nd days of trial. Samples were cultured on different selective medium and bacterial identification was performed by different biochemical and molecular diagnostic tools. Results showed a significant effect of AGPs on the growth of pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens in the intestine. Interestingly, an impaired growth was observed for both bacterium showing a significant effect (P<0.05) of AGPs on E. coli and C. perfringens on day 14th, 28th, and 42nd. This effect was observed solely and in combination while using AGPs. Data further showed that the effect was more prominent in combination and with an increase concentration of AGPs. Remarkably, no impairment was seen on the growth of L. reuteri at different sites of intestine and duration (14th, 28th, and 42nd days). The results showed that the use of AGPs in diet has no harmful effect on beneficial bacteria, however, an impaired growth was seen on the harmful bacteria. It is suggested that a combination of AGPs (OXY-1.0+TP-0.5) is economical and have no harmful effect on the broiler chicken. The use of AGPs in a recommended dose and for a specific period of time are safe to use in poultry both as growth promoter and for the prevention of diseases.

O estudo teve como objetivo analisar os efeitos dos antibióticos promotores de crescimento (AGPs), di-hidrato de oxitetraciclina e fosfato de tilosina na microflora intestinal de frangos de corte. Os AGPs foram fornecidos em diferentes concentrações isoladamente ou em combinações por 42 dias de criação. Amostras fecais foram coletadas do intestino (duodeno, jejuno e ceco) de frangos de corte no 14º, 28º e 42º dias de ensaio. As amostras foram cultivadas em diferentes meios seletivos e a identificação bacteriana foi realizada por diferentes ferramentas de diagnóstico bioquímico e molecular. Os resultados mostraram um efeito significativo dos AGPs no crescimento de microrganismos patogênicos como Escherichia coli e Clostridium perfringens no intestino. Curiosamente, um crescimento prejudicado foi observado para ambas as bactérias, mostrando um efeito significativo (P <0,05) de AGPs em E. coli e C. perfringens nos dias 14, 28 e 42. Este efeito foi observado apenas e em combinação com o uso de AGPs. Os dados mostraram ainda que o efeito foi mais proeminente em combinação e com um aumento da concentração de AGPs. Nenhum comprometimento foi observado no crescimento de L. reuteri em diferentes locais do intestino e duração (14º, 28º e 42º dias). Os resultados mostraram que o uso de AGPs na dieta não tem efeito nocivo nas bactérias benéficas, no entanto, foi observado um crescimento prejudicado nas bactérias nocivas. Sugere-se que uma combinação de AGPs (OXY-1.0+TP-0.5) seja econômica e não tenha efeito prejudicial sobre o frango de corte. O uso de AGPs em uma dose recomendada e por um período de tempo específico é seguro para uso em aves tanto como promotor de crescimento quanto para prevenção de doenças.

Copulatory courtship, body temperature and infection in Tenebrio molitor.

Ectothermic animals can raise their body temperature under varying circumstances. Two such situations occur during sexual activity (as metabolic rate rises during copulatory movements) and during infection (to control pathogens more effectively). We have investigated these two situations using Tenebrio molitor males. We recorded the copulatory courtship behavior of sick (= infected with Metharizium robertsii fungus) vs healthy males and its link with body temperature. We predicted a positive relation between copulatory courtship (measured as antennal and leg contact behavior) and body temperature, especially in sick males. We found that the intensity of contacts correlated with increased body temperature in sick males. Previous studies in this species indicated that partner females laid fewer eggs after mating with sick males above a certain male body temperature threshold. Thus, our present findings suggest that females may detect male infection via intensity of antennal-mediated courtship, body temperature or their combination. If this is the case, females may assess male cues directly related to health status such as body temperature.

Courtship behavior in the knife livebearer Alfaro cultratus (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae).

The mating behavior of the knife livebearer Alfaro cultratus is described in detail. During "rubbing," the male swims to a position above the female and gently moves down repeatedly touching the dorsal part of female head with the pelvic fin tips. This courtship behavior constitutes the first report of a pelvic fin male-female contact during mating in poecilids. Based on preliminary evidence, I propose that a sensory bias mechanism could mediate the evolution of signal design/mate choice in this species, which should be tested in further studies.

Behavioural plasticity in activity and sexual interactions in a social lizard at high environmental temperatures.

Sexual selection often shapes social behavioural activities, such as movement in the environment to find possible partners, performance of displays to signal dominance and courtship behaviours. Such activities may be negatively influenced by increasing temperatures, especially in ectotherms, because individuals either have to withstand the unfavourable condition or are forced to allocate more time to thermoregulation by increasing shelter seeking behaviour. Thus, they "miss" opportunities for social and reproductive interactions. Moreover, behavioural displays of ectotherms closely depend on temperature; consequently, mate choice behaviours may be disrupted, ultimately modifying sexual selection patterns. Therefore, it would be interesting to elucidate how increasing temperatures associated with global warming may influence activity and social interactions in the species' natural habitat and, specifically how high temperatures may modify intersexual interactions. Consequently, our aim was to explore differences in the daily pattern of social interactions in an ectotherm model, Tropidurus spinulosus, in two thermally different habitats and to determine how high temperatures modify mate choice. High environmental temperatures were found to be associated with a bimodal pattern in daily activity, which was closely linked to the daily variations in the thermal quality of the habitat; whereas the pattern and frequency of social displays showed less plasticity. The time allocated to mate choice generally decreased with increasing temperature since individuals increased the use of thermal refuges; this result supports the hypothesis of "missed opportunities". Moreover, at high temperatures, both sexes showed changes in mate selection dynamics, with females possibly "rushing" mate choice and males showing an increase in intermale variability of reproductive displays. In our ectotherm model, plastic adjustments in the behavioural activity pattern induced by high temperatures, plus the modification of the displays during courtship may ultimately modify mate choice patterns and sexual selection dynamics.

The dynamics behind diversity in suboscine songs.

Vocal behavior plays a crucial evolutionary role. In the case of birds, song is critically important in courtship, male-male competition and other key behaviors linked to reproduction. However, under natural conditions, a variety of avian species live in close proximity and share an 'acoustic landscape'. Therefore, they need to be able to differentiate their calls or songs from those of other species and also from those of other individuals of the same species. To do this efficiently, birds display a remarkable diversity of sounds. For example, in the case of vocal learners, such as oscine passerines (i.e. songbirds), complex sequences and subtle acoustic effects are produced through the generation of complex neuromuscular instructions driving the vocal organ, which is remarkably conserved across approximately 4000 oscine species. By contrast, the majority of the sister clade of oscines, the suboscine passerines, are thought not to be vocal learners. Despite this, different suboscine species can generate a rich variety of songs and quite subtle acoustic effects. In the last few years, different suboscine species have been shown to possess morphological adaptations that allow them to produce a diversity of acoustic characteristics. Here, we briefly review the mechanisms of sound production in birds, before considering three suboscine species in more detail. The examples discussed in this Review, integrating biological experiments and biomechanical modeling using non-linear dynamical systems, illustrate how a morphological adaptation can produce complex acoustic properties without the need for complex neuromuscular control.

Homosexual Courtship in Young Wild Capuchin Monkeys: A Case Study.

In primates, many species exhibit same-sex sexual behaviors (SSB), defined as "genital contact or genital manipulation between same-sex individuals." Several sociosexual functions have been proposed, including proceptivity enhancement, receptivity reduction, dominance assertion, practice for heterosexual copulation, tension regulation, reconciliation, and alliance formation. Capuchin monkeys are known for their rich and flexible sexual behavioral repertoire and elaborated courtships. At present, the few reports of SSB in capuchin monkeys (genera Sapajus and Cebus) focused on mounting. Here, we describe the case observed in a population of wild yellow-breasted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus xanthosternos) in which two young males, aged 5-6 years and 19 months, performed a 15-min uninterrupted sequence of courtship behaviors and mounting. Comparing with a previously established ethogram of 20 behaviors typical for heterosexual behavior of tufted capuchins, we show that these males performed 16 of them. Thus, SSBs are already present in the repertoire of young individuals and the practice may serve to create or strengthen bonds. Although same-sex mounting and genital inspection are common in capuchins' play and other social interactions, the almost entire array of courtship behaviors has never been observed in youngsters. Additionally, this example supports the notion that primate (homo)sexual behavior is not limited to genitalia and copulation, since the observed courtship included diverse behaviors different from genital contact. Thus, we propose a broader definition of sexual behavior.

Iridescent scales signal male fighting ability to access females in the jewelled splitfin Xenotoca variata.

Jewelled splitfin males (Xenotoca variata) possess multi-colour iridescent scales (speckles) on the flanks. This study tested the hypothesis that the number of speckles could be a good proxy for predicting fighting ability in contests for access to females. The experiments consisted in observing and recording males' agonistic behaviour, courtship displays and mating attempts in mixed-sex groups. The data were analysed and presented based on a Bayesian approach, which revealed that the density (cm-2 ) of speckles was positively correlated with the increase observed in the proportional frequency of attacks. Similarly, the density of speckles was positively associated with the increase observed in the frequency of courtship behaviour and with the frequency of mating attempts. Male-male aggressions drastically diminished (by eightfold) when females were removed from the observation tanks. These results indicate that the number of speckles is a consistent predictor of successful access to females and therefore, speckled males are likely to be able to gain more mating opportunities. This finding highlights the ubiquitous role iridescent colours play in visual signalling.

Hybridization despite elaborate courtship behavior and female choice in Neotropical tree frogs.

The mechanisms of hybridization can be elucidated by analyzing genotypes as well as phenotypes that could act as premating barriers, as the reproductive interactions among heterospecifics can alter the evolutionary history of species. In frogs, hybrids typically occur among species that reproduce explosively (in dense aggregations) with few opportunities for mate selection but are rare in species with elaborate courtship behaviors that may prevent erroneous mating. Using 21 microsatellite markers, we examined hybridization in the prolonged-breeding tree frogs Bokermannohyla ibitiguara and B. sazimai sampled within a contact zone in the Brazilian savanna (72 tadpoles; 74 adults). We also compared acoustic and morphological data. We confirmed both parental species genetically; STRUCTURE results confirmed 14 hybrids, 11 of which were second-generation according to NEWHYBRIDS, all with intermediate values of genetic dissimilarities compared to the parentals. Morphological and acoustic analyses revealed that hybrids showed variable but not necessarily intermediate phenotypes. Moreover, 2 hybrids exhibited call types different from parentals. The reproduction of B. ibitiguara involves territorial and aggressive males, elaborate courtships with acoustic and tactile stimuli, choosy females, and opportunistic strategies. Our study uncovers a rare case of viable hybridization among closely related frogs with such a combination of complex courtship behaviors and mate choice. We discuss the likely directionality and mechanisms behind this phenomenon, and highlight the importance of investigating hybridization even in species that show elaborate reproduction and female choice to advance our understanding of animal diversification.

Effect of good handling on stress indicators and behaviour in beef cattle / Efeito de boas práticas de manejo sobre indicadores de estresse e comportamento em bovinos de corte

Aspects related to good handling practices have significant impacts on animal behaviour with positive effects on the productivity and profitability of production systems. This study investigated the impact of good handling practices on the modification of stress indicators and the behaviour of beef cattle. Thirty-six male castrated bovines at the growth stage were evaluated for 490 days and submitted to two different production systems in Southern Brazil: good handling practices (GHP) and a traditional handling system of beef-cattle farming (THS). Body weight, reactivity indicators (flight distance and composite behaviour score), and blood indicators of stress (glucose and cortisol) were measured. An analysis of variance was carried out with measurements repeated over time, and Pearson's correlation applied between the variables mentioned above. No differences were found (P>0.05) for body weight in any of the evaluations, with initial weights of 196.2 and 196.3 kg and final weights of 431.0 and 413.8 kg for the GHP and THS steers, respectively. The GHP determined better values for the stress and behavioural indicators compared to THS (P<0.05). The flight distance of the GHP animals decreased from 11.33 to 5.22 metres from the first to the last evaluation, while in the THS animals the values were 10.17 and 11.89 metres, respectively. The behaviour composite score differed in the evaluations at 372 and 490 days, with values of 1.77 and 1.47 for GHP animals and values of 2.92 and 2.83 points for THS animals, respectively. Glucose and cortisol levels decreased with the advancing evaluations in GHP animals, with values from 94.80 to 74.22 mg/dL and from 6.08 to 3.68 µg/dL, respectively. In THS animals, glucose and cortisol levels were similar in the initial and final evaluations, with values of 89.30 and 91.28 mg/dL and 5.34 and 5.80 µg/dL, respectively. Regardless of the handling, the final body weight of the animals correlated negatively with the reactivity indicators and physiological stress indicators. The reactivity of the cattle is influenced by the quality of the human-animal interaction but has no effect on the performance of animals raised on pasture. Good handling practices reduce the reactivity and stress indicators of cattle.

Aspectos relacionados às boas práticas de manejo têm impactos significativos no comportamento animal com efeitos positivos na produtividade e lucratividade dos sistemas de produção. Este estudo investigou o impacto das boas práticas de manejo na modificação de indicadores de estresse e no comportamento de bovinos de corte. Trinta e seis bovinos, em fase de crescimento, foram avaliados por 490 dias e submetidos a dois diferentes sistemas de produção no sul do Brasil: boas práticas de manejo (BPM) e sistema de manejo tradicional da pecuária de corte (SMT). Foram avaliados o peso corporal, indicadores de reatividade (distância de fuga e escore composto de comportamento) e indicadores fisiológicos de estresse (glicose e cortisol no sangue). Foi realizada análise de variância com medidas repetidas ao longo do tempo e aplicada a correlação de Pearson entre as variáveis citadas anteriormente. Não foram encontradas diferenças para peso corporal em nenhuma das avaliações (P>0,05), com pesos iniciais de 196,2 e 196,3 kg e pesos finais de 431.0 e 413.8 kg para os novilhos BPM e SMT, respectivamente. O BPM determinou melhores valores para os indicadores fisiológicos de estresse e indicadores comportamentais em relação ao SMT (P<0,05). A distância de fuga dos animais BPM diminuiu de 11,33 para 5,22 metros da primeira avaliação para última avaliação, enquanto nos animais SMT os valores foram de 10,17 e 11,89 metros, respectivamente. O escore composto de comportamento diferiu nas avaliações aos 372 e 490 dias, com valores de 1,77 e 1,47 para animais BPM e valores de 2,92 e 2,83 pontos para animais SMT, respectivamente. Os níveis de glicose e cortisol diminuíram com o avanço das avaliações nos animais BPM com valores de 94,80 para 74,22 mg/dL e de 6,08 para 3,68 µg/dL, respectivamente. Nos animais SMT os níveis de glicose e cortisol foram semelhantes nas avaliações inicial e final com valores de 89,30 e 91,28 mg/dL e de 5,34 e 5,80 µg/dL, respectivamente. Independentemente do manejo ao qual os animais foram submetidos, o peso corporal final se correlacionou negativamente com os indicadores de reatividade e indicadores fisiológicos de estresse. A reatividade dos bovinos é influenciada pela qualidade da interação homem-animal, mas não tem efeito sobre o desempenho dos animais criados a pasto. Boas práticas de manejo reduzem a reatividade e os indicadores fisiológicos de estresse dos bovinos.

New species of tree cricket Oecanthus Serville, 1831 (Orthoptera: Grylloidea) from Southern Brazilian Atlantic Forest, with bioacoustics.

Tree Crickets, Oecanthus Serville, 1831 have a worldwide distribution, and are known as Tree Crickets because they are common in the treetops, even though many species occur in different strata of forest, and also in open fields. In this work we describe a new species of Oecanthus from Southern Brazil, based on the most significant diagnostic structures in the ocanthine taxonomy, such as the phallic sclerites and metanotal gland morphology, as well as calling song. The new species herein described has a distinct faint red spot between the eyes, a metanotal gland with a triangular posterior median lobe with the apex curved up and forward, the median lophi of pseudepiphallus slightly elongate with an U-shaped invagination, and the ectophallic distal arc prolongation with the posterior apex U-bifurcated. The calling song stands out among the local stridulating crickets for alternate a regular and an irregular train of chirps. Illustrations of the external morphology, information about type specimens, material examined, measurements, and spectrogram of the calling and courtship songs is provided.

Determination of factors affecting profit by quantitative methods in broiler enterprises / Determinação dos fatores que afetam o lucro por métodos quantitativos em empresas de frangos de carne

This study was carried out to demonstrate how a regression model can be used as a decision support tool in the poultry sector, using variables that affect profit, within the scope of broiler enterprises that are engaged in contract production depending on broiler integrations. Enterprises included in the study were selected from Bolu, Sakarya and Ankara provinces those have the 24% of the rearing flocks and the integrations in Turkey. The 68 out of 9872 broiler enterprises existing in Turkey in 2017 were included in the study by random sampling method. The regression model obtained because of this study allows producers and institutions providing consultancy services in the broiler sector to monitor the marginal effect of variables that affect profit. As a result, when price and cost factors change under different risk conditions, the research model can be used as a decision support tool.

Este estudo foi realizado para demonstrar como um modelo de regressão pode ser utilizado como uma ferramenta de apoio à decisão no setor avícola, utilizando variáveis que afetam o lucro, dentro do escopo de empresas de frangos de corte que se dedicam à produção sob contrato, dependendo das integrações de frangos de corte. As empresas incluídas no estudo foram selecionadas das províncias de Bolu, Sakarya e Ancara, que possuem os 24% dos lotes de frangos de corte e as integrações na Turquia. As 68 das 9872 empresas de frangos de corte existentes na Turquia em 2017 foram incluídas no estudo pelo método de amostragem aleatória. O modelo de regressão obtido devido a este estudo permite aos produtores e instituições que prestam serviços de consultoria no setor de frangos de corte monitorar o efeito marginal das variáveis que afetam o lucro. Como resultado, quando os fatores preço e custo mudam sob diferentes condições de risco, o modelo de pesquisa pode ser usado como uma ferramenta de apoio à decisão.

Challenging monogamy in a spider with nontraditional sexual behavior.

Each species and sex can develop different reproductive strategies to optimize their fitness while assigning reproductive effort. Allocosa senex is a sex-role reversed spider whose males construct long burrows in the sand. They wait for wandering females to approach, assess their sexual partners and donate their constructions to females after copulation. Females stay in the burrow and lay their egg-sac. When offspring are ready for dispersion, females leave the burrow and gain access to new mating opportunities. Males are choosy during mate courtship, preferring to mate with virgin females over copulated ones, which can even be cannibalized if males reject them. This situation turns new mating opportunities dangerous for copulated females. We wondered whether a copulated female inside the previous mate's burrow responds to courtship from a new male and if this new male can copulate, avoiding burrow construction costs. We also explored whether courtship and copulation behaviors during the first sexual encounter affected the probability of occurrence of a second copulation. For that purposes we exposed copulated females inside male burrows to new males (non-donor males). Males could locate and court females inside the previous male's burrow, and females accepted a second copulation. Hence, A. senex females are not monogamous as was expected but increase their reproductive success by copulating with non-donor males. Also, males can develop opportunistic tactics, suggesting a more dynamic mating system for this sex-role reversed spider than assumed.

The female sex pheromone (Z)-4-undecenal mediates flight attraction and courtship in Drosophila melanogaster.

Specific mate communication and recognition underlies reproduction and hence speciation. Our study provides new insights in Drosophila melanogaster premating olfactory communication. Mate communication evolves during adaptation to ecological niches and makes use of social signals and habitat cues. Female-produced, species-specific volatile pheromone (Z)-4-undecenal (Z4-11Al) and male pheromone (Z)-11-octadecenyl acetate (cVA) interact with food odour in a sex-specific manner. Furthermore, Z4-11Al, which mediates upwind flight attraction in both sexes, also elicits courtship in experienced males. Two isoforms of the olfactory receptor Or69a are co-expressed in the same olfactory sensory neurons. Z4-11Al is perceived via Or69aB, while the food odorant (R)-linalool is a main ligand for the other variant, Or69aA. However, only Z4-11Al mediates courtship in experienced males, not (R)-linalool. Behavioural discrimination is reflected by calcium imaging of the antennal lobe, showing distinct glomerular activation patterns by these two compounds. Male sex pheromone cVA is known to affect male and female courtship at close range, but does not elicit upwind flight attraction as a single compound, in contrast to Z4-11Al. A blend of the food odour vinegar and cVA attracted females, while a blend of vinegar and female pheromone Z4-11Al attracted males, instead. Sex-specific upwind flight attraction to blends of food volatiles and male and female pheromone, respectively, adds a new element to Drosophila olfactory premating communication and is an unambiguous paradigm for identifying the behaviourally active components, towards a more complete concept of food-pheromone odour objects.

Size matters: Antagonistic effects of body size on courtship and digging in a wolf spider with non-traditional sex roles.

Body size, nuptial gift characteristics and courtship behaviour, among other traits, can reflect the quality of a potential mate and, thus, might be under sexual selection. To maximize their mating success, individuals can show behavioural plasticity in sexual context. Allocosa senex is a burrow-digging wolf spider that exhibits reversal in courtship roles and in sexual size-dimorphism expected for spiders. Males construct the mating refuge and females prefer males that build longer burrows, which are considered as nuptial gifts because they are delivered to them after mating. This study aims to determine whether male body size and female reproductive status influence burrow dimensions, courtship displays, female preferences and cannibalism rate in A. senex. For that purpose, we allowed males to construct burrows and performed sexual trials under laboratory conditions. Larger males were more courted by females, and in turn, they expressed more vibratory behaviours during courtship. However, and contrary to our expectations, smaller males constructed longer burrows. We suggest that males of A. senex exhibit size-dependent behavioural plasticity, and when they are smaller, they invest more in burrow construction to compensate their lower opportunities of courting intensively as larger males. In addition, females courted differentially according to their reproductive status, overriding male preferences for virgin females. This study opens several doors to future research regarding mutual choice in A. senex and the traits assessed by males and females during courtship, as well as about the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic factors shaping reproductive decision-making in this and other wandering spider species.

Emulsifier and enzymatic complex in diet for free range broiler chicken in the western amazon / Emulsificante e complexo enzimático em dieta para frangos de corte de linhagem caipira na Amazônia ocidental

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding levels of emulsifier based on soy lecithin and enzymatic complex (xylanase, ß-glucanase;-glucanase, galactosidase, protease, amylase, and ß-mannanase) on the basal diet during the raising of free-range broiler chickens. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five treatments and six replications. Treatments were: T1: control diet, without enzymatic complex and emulsifier; T2: 0.2 kg t-1 of enzymatic complex; T3: 0.5 kg t-1 of emulsifier; T4: 0.2 kg t-1 of enzymatic complex + 0.5 kg t-1 of emulsifier; and T5: 0.3 kg t-1 of enzymatic complex + 1 kg t-1 of emulsifier. Performance data were collected every 14 days, and the animals were euthanized at 70 days to obtain carcass, breast, drumstick, and thigh yield and intestine collection for pH analysis and morphometry. The periods from 1 to 56 and 1 to 70 days showed a difference (P<0.05) in the parameters of zootechnical performance, the feed intake was lower in T4 and T5, and weight gain was better in T1, T2, T3, and T4. Feed conversion was better in T1, T2, and T4. No difference (P>0.05) was observed for poultry livability, carcass yield, viscera, and pH of duodenum and cecum. A difference was found for intestinal morphometry (P<0.05), and T5 showed the best villus/crypt ratio. The level with 0.3 kg t-1 of enzymatic complex and 1 kg t-1 of emulsifier indicated a better relationship between villi and crypts. However, the level with 0.2 kg t-1 of enzymatic complex and 0.5 kg t-1 of emulsifier added to the commercial diet led to benefits such as decreased feed intake, without affecting weight gain, thus inducing a good feed conversion.

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da adição de níveis de emulsificante à base de lecitina de soja e complexo enzimático (Xilanase, ß-Glucanase, Galactosidase, Protease, Amilase, ß-Mananase) na ração basal durante a criação de frangos de corte de linhagem caipira. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com 5 tratamentos e 6 repetições. Os tratamentos foram: T1: ração controle, sem complexo enzimático e emulsificante; T2: 0,2 kg t-1 de complexo enzimático; T3: 0,5 kg t-1 de emulsificante; T4: 0,2 kg t-1 de complexo enzimático + 0,5 kg t-1 de emulsificante; T5: 0,3 kg t-1 de complexo enzimático + 1 kg t-1 de emulsificante. A cada 14 dias foram coletados os dados do desempenho zootécnico e após 70 dias as aves foram eutanasiadas para obtenção do rendimento de carcaça, peito, coxa, sobrecoxa e coleta do intestino para análise de pH e morfometria. Nos períodos de 1 a 56 e 1 a 70 dias houve diferença (P<0,05) nos parâmetros de desempenho zootécnico, o consumo de ração foi menor no T4 e T5, e o ganho de peso foi melhor no T1, T2, T3 e T4. A conversão foi melhor em T1, T2 e T4. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) na viabilidade das aves, no rendimento de carcaça, cortes de vísceras e no pH de duodeno e cecos. Houve diferença na morfometria intestinal (P<0,05), sendo o T5 o que obteve melhor relação vilo/cripta. O nível 0,3 kg t-1 complexo enzimático com 1 kg t-1 emulsificante indicou melhor efeito na relação vilosidade e criptas. O nível com 0,2 kg t-1 do complexo enzimático com 0,5 kg t-1 do emulsificante adicionado a dieta comercial trouxe benefícios como diminuição do consumo de ração, sem afetar o ganho de peso, tendo assim uma boa conversão alimentar.

Hemoglobina glucosilada en el diagnóstico de diabetes gestacional en mujeres mexicanas durante el tercer trimestre / Glycosylated hemoglobin in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes in Mexican women during the third trimester

Resumen El objetivo del trabajo fue analizar los valores de hemoglobina glucosilada en el tercer trimestre de embarazo como predictores alternativos de la diabetes gestacional en pacientes del Noreste de México. Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles a partir de 121 expedientes de pacientes embarazadas, divididos en dos grupos, pacientes con diabetes gestacional (casos) y gestantes con valores glucémicos normales (controles). Se analizaron los factores de riesgo asociados a la diabetes gestacional y se obtuvo un punto de corte para la hemoglobina glucosilada. Se encontró que la obesidad materna, la edad y el antecedente del padecimiento fueron asociados significativamente con la diabetes gestacional. Valores de hemoglobina glucosilada ≥5% incrementaron el riesgo de padecer diabetes mellitus gestacional 4 veces y, aunado a un factor de riesgo, la probabilidad se incrementó 7 veces. Se concluye que los valores de hemoglobina glucosilada en el tercer trimestre de embarazo podrían emplearse como prueba diagnóstica de la diabetes gestacional en pacientes del Noreste de México. Sin embargo, aunque las diferencias encontradas fueron estadísticamente significativas, los resultados se deben interpretar con cautela y requieren su confirmación con estudios que incluyan una muestra mayor.

Abstract The objective of this study was to analise glycosylated hemoglobin values in the third trimester of pregnancy as an alternative predictor of gestational diabetes in North East Mexican cohort patients. This is a retrospective case-control study based on 121 records of pregnant patients, divided into two groups, patients with gestational diabetes (cases) and pregnant women with normal glycemic values (control). The risk factors associated with gestational diabetes were analised and a cut-off point for glycosylated hemogestaglobin was obtained. It was found that maternal obesity, age and a history of the condition were significantly associated with gestational diabetes. Values of glycosylated hemoglobin ≥5% increased the risk of suffering from gestational diabetes 4 times, and coupled with a risk factor, the risk increased 7 times. It is concluded that glycosylated hemoglobin values in the third trimester of pregnancy could be used as a diagnostic test for gestational diabetes in patients from the North East of Mexico. Although the differences found were statistically significant, our results must be interpreted with caution and require confirmation by studies with a larger sample.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar os valores da hemoglobina glicada no terceiro trimestre de gestação como preditores alternativos do diabetes gestacional em pacientes na região nordeste do México. Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo de casos e controles utilizando 121 prontuários de gestantes divididas em dois grupos; pacientes com diabetes gestacional (casos) e gestantes com valores de glicemia normais (controles). Foram analisados os fatores de risco associados a diabetes gestacional obtendo-se um ponto de corte para a hemoglobina glicada. Descobriu-se que a obesidade materna, idade e antecedentes da doença foram associados significativamente ao diabetes gestacional. Valores da hemoglobina glicada ≥ 5% aumentaram o risco de padecer diabetes mellitus gestacional 4 vezes, e juntamente a um fator de risco, a probabilidade aumentou 7 vezes. Conclui-se que os valores da hemoglobina glicada no terceiro trimestre de gestação poderiam ser usados como teste diagnóstico do diabetes gestacional em pacientes da região nordeste do México. Embora as diferenças encontradas tenham sido estatisticamente significativas, os resultados devem ser interpretados com cautela e requerem confirmação através de estudos que incluam uma amostra maior.

Dating and dating violence: social representations of school adolescents / Namoro e violência no namoro: representações sociais de adolescentes escolares / Noviazgo y violencia en el noviazgo: representaciones sociales de alumnos adolescents

This study aimed to analyze the Social Representations of adolescents on dating and dating violence from their social anchors. This is a quantitative-qualitative, descriptive-exploratory study, involving 215 adolescents from public schools located in the city of João Pessoa - Paraíba, aged between 14 and 18 (M=16.16; SD=1.26), predominantly female (60.5%). Participants answered the Free Word Association Technique (FWAT); the Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationship Inventory (CADRI); and, a sociodemographic questionnaire. Data from the CADRI and sociodemographic characterization were submitted to descriptive analysis, while those from the FWAT to the Correspondence Factor Analysis. Results anchored social objects in the affective, behavioral, psycho-affective, psycho-organic and valorative spheres. Dating was objectified as complicity, fidelity, respect, love, commitment, deception, betrayal, kiss, and fight. While dating violence was objectified as jealousy, disrespect, sadness, quarrel, cowardice, rape, wrong, hate, death and verbal. (AU)

Objetivou-se, neste estudo, analisar as Representações Sociais de adolescentes acerca do namoro e violência no namoro (VN) a partir de suas ancoragens sociais. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quanti-qualitativa, descritiva-exploratória, que contou com 215 adolescentes de escolas públicas da cidade de João Pessoa-Paraíba, com idades entre 14 e 18 anos (M=16,16; DP=1,26), prevalentemente do sexo feminino (60,5%). Os participantes responderam à Técnica de Associação Livre de Palavras (TALP); o Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationship Inventory (CADRI); e um questionário sociodemográfico. Dados do CADRI e de caracterização sociodemográfica foram submetidos a análises descritivas, enquanto os da TALP a uma Análise Fatorial de Correspondência. Os resultados ancoraram os objetos sociais nas esferas afetiva, comportamental, psicoafetiva, psico-orgânica e valorativa. O namoro foi objetivado como cumplicidade, fidelidade, respeito, amor, compromisso, decepção, traição, beijo e briga. Enquanto a VN foi objetivada como ciúmes, desrespeito, tristeza, briga, covardia, estupro, errado, ódio, morte e verbal. (AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las Representaciones Sociales de los adolescentes sobre la violencia en el noviazgo (VN) desde sus anclajes sociales. Se trata de una investigación cuantitativa-cualitativa, descriptiva-exploratoria, que contó con 215 adolescentes de la ciudad de João Pessoa-Paraíba, con edades entre 14 y 18 años (M=16,16; DP=1,26), prevalentemente del sexo femenino (60,5%). Los participantes respondieron a la Técnica de Asociación Libre de Palabras (TALP); Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationship Inventory (CADRI); y un cuestionario sociodemográfico. Datos del CADRI y de caracterización sociodemográfica se sometieron a análisis descriptivos, mientras que los de la TALP através de la Análisis Factorial de Correspondencia. Resultados anclaron los objetos sociales en esferas afectivas, conductuales, psicoafetivas, psicoorgánicas y valorativas. El noviazgo fue objetivado como complicidad, fidelidad, respeto, amor, compromiso, decepción, traición, beso y pelea. El VN fue objetivada como celos, falta de respeto, tristeza, pelea, cobardía, violación, mal, odio, muerte y verbal. (AU)

Imperfect synchrony in animal displays: why does it occur and what is the true role of leadership?

Synchrony can be defined as the precise coordination between independent individuals, and this behaviour is more enigmatic when it is imperfect. The traditional theoretical explanation for imperfect synchronous courtship is that it arises as a by-product of the competition between males to broadcast leading signals to attract female attention. This competition is considered an evolutionary stable strategy maintained through sexual selection. However, previous studies have revealed that leading signals are not honest indicators of male quality. We studied imperfect courtship synchrony in fiddler crabs to mainly test whether (i) signal leadership and rate are defined by male quality and (ii) signal leadership generates synchrony. Fiddler crab males wave their enlarged claws during courtship, and females prefer leading males-displaying ahead of their neighbour(s). We filmed groups of waving males in the field to detect how often individuals were leaders and if they engaged in synchrony. Overall, we found that courtship effort is not directly related to male size, a general proxy for quality. Contrary to the long-standing assumption, we also revealed that leadership is not directly related to group synchrony, but faster wave rate correlates with both leadership and synchrony. This article is part of the theme issue 'Synchrony and rhythm interaction: from the brain to behavioural ecology'.

Courtship, Mating Behavior, and Ovary Histology of the Nymph Parasitoid Psyllaephagus bliteus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae).

The potential of the parasitoid Psyllaephagus bliteus Riek for the biological control of the eucalyptus pest Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) nymphs is high. This research sought to analyze the courtship, male competition, and mating behavior of P. bliteus at the proportions of 1:1 and 2:1 males to female in a Petri dish (5 cm diameter), and to describe the ovary histology of virgin and mated females of this parasitoid. At 1:1, males touch the antennae and thorax-abdomen of females during courtship, but females avoid mate attempts before they are 48 h old. At 2:1, the competition between male parasitoids inhibits mating. The histology of ovaries of virgin and mated P. bliteus females is similar, with two well-defined germarium and vitellarium regions, with oocytes at different developmental stages, including mature ones rich in yolk and with eggshell. A clearer understanding of the reproductive behavior and histology of P. bliteus aids in the use of this parasitoid for the biological control of G. brimblecombei.