Newsletter - Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences

ISSUE 51

AABC - Volume 93 Suppl. 4 2021

Finally, the last issue of the Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences published in 2021! For the AABC, it has been a wonderful year - 425 papers, a record! And that despite the pandemic situation we live in.

This issue presents a total of 66 articles in 13 scientific fields. Again, Ecosystems (12) shows most papers, followed closely by Animal Science (11) and Health Sciences (11). Other areas include Biomedical Sciences (8), Microbiology (6), Engineering Sciences (5), Cellular and Molecular Biology (3), Chemical Sciences (3), Geosciences (2), Crop Science (2), Mathematical Sciences (1), Physical Sciences (1) and Forestry Science (1).

Regarding Ecosystems, there is an interesting study about the potential effects of biopesticides on Araipama - one of the largest fluvial species of fish quite common in the Amazon area. Other contributions discuss problems related to laws about biodiversity, the extinction risks based on characteristics of mammals, anuran diversity in soybean plantations, and standardized ecological studies in Amazonian savannahs.

Among the studies published in Health Sciences, one paper discusses the biochemical effects of the "Miraculous Tree" (Moringa oleifera), mirabegron and memory, approaches to suicidal ideation, and Influenza.

In Biomedical Sciences there are studies on coffee and Parkinson´s disease, challenges of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater, and diabetes.

Other interesting papers include the use of biomarkers to determine an oil spill in northeast Brazil (Chemical Sciences), crystallization conditions of two granitic stocks (Geosciences), glucose tolerance in fishes (Animal Science), variations of ant assemblages in agroecological systems (Crop Science), and oil bioremediation in tropical environments (Engineering Sciences).

Please keep in mind that since 2000 all papers published by the AABC can be downloaded free of charge at the SciELO site and previous editions of the Newsletter are available at the ABC website.

Scroll through the text and click on the title of the article that interests you! And let your colleagues and students know about the papers published by the AABC - there is surely information that might help them with their research.

Happy New Year and that in 2022 we can get COVID under control.

Alexander W. A. Kellner
Editor-in-Chief

MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

1- On the moment-determinacy of power Lindley distribution and some applications to software metrics

MOHAMMED KHALLEEFAH, SOFIYA OSTROVSKA & MEHMET TURAN

Since a majority of real-life processes are stochastic rather than deterministic, the probabilistic methods are of a paramount importance for applications. This situation stipulates an extensive research of probability distributions. Nowadays, this research expanded tremendously owing to the intensive development of computer science, information technologies, and software engineering. In this paper, the power Lindley distribution is examined; its properties with respect to moment-(in) determinacy are studied, new Stieltjes classes have been constructed in the case of moment-indeterminacy, and the role of the power Lindley distribution in the sofware engineering is demonstrated with the help of software metrics data sets.

 Read here

PHYSICAL SCIENCES

2- Refractive Index Formula of Blood as a Function of Temperature and Concentration

MURAT ODUNCUOĞLU

Blood is the main complex parameter for defining a patient’s condition, illness, parasitization, temperature etc. The article presents a new expression for the refractive index of blood as a function of wavelength, concentration, and temperature given for diagnostic purposes. The refractive index of blood can be used in the limits of the spectral range of 436 - 1550 nm, in the temperature range of 20-45 °C and the concentration of 0-200 g/L HbC. The applied researchers, especially health care professionals may benefit from AI programs and our formulation that can safely detect/measure abnormalities.

 Read here

CHEMICAL SCIENCES

3- A Viscometric study of mixtures with Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) and short chain diols used in the formulations of solid composite propellants

BRUNO C.C. DA CUNHA, MARCELA G. DOMINGUES & JOSÉ A.F.F. ROCCO

Solid composite propellants are used as fuel in rocket motors and space vehicles. They are composed by a binder and by energetic solid charges. The Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) is the most important component in the binder fraction. To improve their mechanical properties, especially tensile strength, chain extenders can be employed. The incorporation of them can result in a considerable increase in the viscosity of the mixture during the process. The present study evaluated the compatibility of two chain extenders with the HTPB, through a viscometric analysis, and determined the best order of addition in terms of homogeneity of the mixture.

 Read here

4- Comparison of cell wall polysaccharides in Schizophyllum commune after changing phenotype by mutation

NICOLE DALONSO, CARMEN L.O. PETKOWICZ, LUIS G. LUGONES, MARCIA L.L. SILVEIRA & REGINA M.M. GERN

Chemical analysis of the cell wall can help to understand phenotype changes in fungi. In this study, Schizophyllum commune protoplasts were transformed with plasmid pUCHYG-GPDGLS. Transformants turned out to show morphological characteristics of mutants in the thin gene. Polysaccharides extracted from the mutant strain of S. commune (ScT4) showed higher mannogalactan content than the wild type (ScW). This is the first report on the isolation of mannogalactans from S. commune liquid cultures. It is still a great challenge to understand the role of this polysaccharide in the cell walls of fungi.

 Read here

5- Multiple reaction monitoring tool applied in the geochemical investigation of a mysterious oil spill in northeast Brazil

JHONATTAS C. CARREGOSA, IGNES R. DOS SANTOS, MIRELE S. DE SÁ, JANDYSON M. SANTOS & ALBERTO WISNIEWSKI JR

The identity of an oil can be investigated by elucidating the profile of molecules present in the material, more specifically, using classes of compounds known as biomarkers. Biomarkers are molecules that are associated with the input of organic matter that gave rise to the oil, the paleoenvironment in which this organic matter was deposited, in addition to informing the degree of thermal evolution of the material until the oil conception and its reservoir accumulation. Therefore, these classes are studied during investigation processes that require the identification of the origin of a certain oil, making the correlation with the possible source.

 Read here

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

6- Occurence of Characidium xavante (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) in the Tapajós River basin and comments about the conservation status of the species

WEFERSON J. DA GRAÇA, HUGMAR P. DA SILVA, AUGUSTO FROTA, IZAIAS M. FERNANDES & RODRIGO P. BARCELOS

Characidium xavante is a small species of fish, popularly known as mocinha or canivetinho, from streams, with occurrence known only in the Xingu River basin. Here, we expanded the occurrence of the species to the Tapajós River basin and discussed its conservation status. Knowing the real geographic distribution is important, as environmental agencies can use this information to make proposals for the preservation of the species and the regions where it occurs.

 Read here

7- Green coffee extract attenuates Parkinson’s-related behaviors in animal models

GRAZIELLA R. MOLSKA, LYVIA IZAURA G. PAULA-FREIRE, MARNA E. SAKALEM, DANIELE O. KÖHN, GIUSEPPINA NEGRI, ELISALDO A. CARLINI & FÚLVIO R. MENDES

Scientific studies suggest that coffee can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The current medicines used in the treatment of PD are able to improve the quality of life, but cannot avoid the progressive neuron degeneration, making it important to identify potential protective factors such as diet or lifestyle. This study brings additional evidence for the potential effect of coffee on the treatment or prevention of PD and support the assumption that caffeine seems to be the main responsible for these effects, although other compounds present in non-roasted seeds might also exert important effects.

 Read here

8- Preparation, optimization and evaluation of transdermal therapeutic system of celecoxib to treat inflammation for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

MUHAMMAD NAEEM, TANIYA IQBAL, ZARQA NAWAZ & SAJJAD HUSSAIN

Transdermal therapeutic system was prepared that could enhance dissolution of poorly aqueous soluble drug Celecoxib.  Solubility studies screened the oil, surfactant and co-surfactant. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to find out microemulsion region. Microemulsions were characterized, optimized and evaluated. ME₆ and gel showed significant difference (p<0.05) from control gel. Stability studies showed prepared MEBG of celecoxib was stable during storage period. Skin irritation studies found the gel was safe and non-irritating to skin. Anti-inflammatory studies showed significant difference (p<0.05) compared to control gel. Thus, the therapeutic system was successfully developed and optimized using Box Behnken statistical design.

 Read here

9- Challenges and emerging perspectives of an international SARS-CoV-2 epidemiological surveillance in wastewater

PEDRO H. MAINARDI & EDERIO D. BIDOIA

COVID-19 patients, including mild, pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases, were often seen to contain infectious fragments of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine. Therefore, studies to detect the new coronavirus in wastewater, which collect and concentrate human excreta, have been extremely useful as a viral monitoring tool in communities. Although current methods to detect viruses in wastewater were considered as reliable and provided accurate results, they have been facing considerable challenges concerning the SARS-CoV-2 surveillance. In this review, the methods used to detect the SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater, the challenges and the emerging perspectives to implement an international viral monitoring network were described.

 Read here

10- De novo design of short antimicrobial lipopeptides

VANESSA POSADA, BLANCA FABIOLA ESPEJO & SERGIO ORDUZ

The increase in bacterial resistance to antibiotics leads to the search for new compounds such as peptides and lipopeptides. In this work, eight short lipopeptides were de novo designed, synthesized and characterized. Two of them, display antibacterial activity against 4 pathogenic bacteria; while were not toxic to human erythrocytes. The antibacterial mechanism of action observed by scanning electron microscopy indicate that the cell membrane was the target, causing formation of blisters and vesicles, with size ranging from 100 to 120 nm. The lipopeptide LIP 12, with higher activity, was stable to proteases of human blood serum.

 Read here

11- Evaluation of antioxidant, cytotoxic, antibacterial effects and mineral levels of Verbascum lasianthum Boiss. ex Bentham

ÖMER HAZMAN, LAÇİNE AKSOY, AHMET BÜYÜKBEN, RECEP KARA, MUSTAFA KARGIOĞLU, ZEHRA B. KUMRAL & İBRAHİM EROL

Antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxic effects and element levels of Verbascum lasianthum Boiss. ex Benth. was investigated. Antioxidant activity of V. lasianthum increased with an increase in phenolic content. V. lasianthum was rich in bio-elements such as Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, and Mg. Acetone and methanol extracts could have both antibacterial activity. Verbascum lasianthum Boiss. ex Benth. had a clear cytotoxic effect only in A549 cell line and increased the proliferation in other (HepG2, MCF-7 and SH-SY5Y) cell lines.

 Read here

12- Antidiabetic properties of oral treatment of hexane and chloroform fractions of Morus nigra leaves in streptozotocin-induced rats

DIONÍSIO H.A. DA SILVA, HUMBERTO M. BARBOSA, JULY F. DA SILVA, CELUANE A. MOURA, DAYANE A. GOMES, JACKSON R.G.S. ALMEIDA & EDUARDO C. LIRA

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the greatest challenges for medicine in the XXI century. Although there are different pharmacological therapies for glycemic control, their use is limited by adverse effects and poor adherence to treatment by patients. For these reasons, the development of new therapeutic strategies for the prevention and/or treatment of DM is essential. The use of medicinal plants, such as Morus nigra, popularly known as blackberry, proves to be efficient in attenuating hyperglycemia through mechanisms such as improved insulin sensitivity, reduced digestion and absorption of carbohydrates and oxidative stress.

 Read here

13- Gender-related differences in the modulation of anthropometric, biochemical, and immune markers by physical activity in hypertensive and diabetic individuals

DÉBORAH C. DOS SANTOS, ISRAEL S. RIBEIRO, DIEGO PATRICK S. LOPES, ÍTALO S. PEREIRA, DENISAR P. SANTOS, IGOR P.R. MUNIZ, FERNANDA M. DA SILVA LIMA, ANDRESSA ANTÔNIA S. COSTA, DANIELA DA SILVA P. SOUZA, STÉFANO PEDRO DE MELO CALADO, CAROLINE V. GONÇALVES, MARIA POLIANA L. GALANTINI, DANILO N. LOPES, ROBSON A.A. DA SILVA & GILVANÉIA S. SANTOS

Systemic arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus compose the two major noncommunicable chronic inflammatory diseases. The practice of physical activity is considered an important complementary therapy for such diseases because it is associated with decreased inflammation in these individuals. However, it is still unclear whether this modulation is gender dependent.The aim of this study was to assess whether responsiveness to physical activity is influenced by gender in diabetic and hypertensive individuals.We observed in this work that the modulation of inflammatory and other parameters mediated by physical activity is different between diabetic and hypertensive men and women.

 Read here

HEALTH SCIENCES

14- Moringa oleifera potential as a functional food and a natural food additive: a biochemical approach

FABIANE HODAS, MARIA ROSA T. ZORZENON & PAULA G. MILANI

Moringa oleifera is commonly known as ‘the Miraculous Tree’ due to its health benefits. Despite its widely use in several countries, in 2019 the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) banned the commercialization of any food product containing Moringa in its formulation within the Brazilian territory owing to lack of studies ensuring the plant's safety. Our review manuscript reported the biochemical effects promoted by Moringa in food products fortified, describing the plant's potential as a natural food additive and a functional food. We also included sensory aspects, toxicological information, and other use limitations, providing important data and encouraging new researches.

 Read here

15- Fibromyalgia: A Review of Related Polymorphisms and Clinical Relevance

LUÍSA P. JANSSEN, LICIANE F. MEDEIROS, ANDRESSA DE SOUZA & JULIANA DA SILVA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that affects the central nervous system and generates disability, which is characterized by generalized pain, fatigue, and functional decline. In this review, we aimed to identify the polymorphisms related to the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia and the clinical characteristics generated by genetic influence. Several genes related to different pain syndromes and altered pain thresholds have been identified and some polymorphisms were related to susceptibility to this disease.

 Read here

16- Effects of mirabegron on depression, anxiety, learning and memory in mice

MEHMET H. TANYERI, MEHMET E. BUYUKOKUROGLU, PELIN TANYERI, OGUZ MUTLU, AYKUT OZTURK, KUBRA YAVUZ & RUMEYSA K. KAYA

Mirabegron is the first b3-adrenoceptor agonist to enter clinical practice and has been approved for the treatment of symptoms of OAB. This study is to investigate whether the mirabegron has an effect on depression, anxiety, learning, and memory. We investigated the effects of mirabegron on depression, anxiety, learning and memory by using forced swimming test, elevated plus maze test, passive avoidance and Morris water maze in mice. Mirabegron might be clinically useful for the treatment of OAB in elderly patients that should use drugs against depression and anxiety, without disrupt learning and memory.

 Read here

17- Antifungal activity of a novel 3-Alkylpyridine analog derived from Marine sponge alkaloids

JÉSSICA T. ANDRADE, WILLIAM G. LIMA, CAMILA S. BARBOSA, ALESSANDRA M.M.N. GONÇALVES, MAYRA K.P. SILVA, FERNANDA B. MORAIS, JULIANA M.C. PALUMBO, GUSTAVO H.R. VIANA & JAQUELINE M.S. FERREIRA

Candida spp. is an important cause of healthcare-associated infections worldwide. We showed the in vitro anti-Candida activity of seven synthetic 3-alkylpyridine alkaloid analogs. Alkaloid 1 presented a potent antifungal effect, which was independent of its capacity of binding with the fungal membrane ergosterol or cell wall. Analog 1 showed fungistatic and fungicidal effects against Candida spp. The time kill-curve study showed that compound 1 has a potent fungicidal effect. This compound also eliminated the yeast-to-hypha transition. However, it showed high cytotoxicity against mammalian cells. These findings support the use of compound 1 as a prototype to develop new anti-Candida agents.

 Read here

18- Structural Model of Suicidal Ideation and Behavior: Mediating Effect of Impulsivity

OLBER EDUARDO ARANGO-TOBÓN, ANYERSON STITHS GÓMEZ TABARES & SILVIA JULIANA OREJARENA SERRANO

The present study aimed to establish the associations between hopelessness, depression and impulsivity with respect to suicidal ideation and behavior, and to explore the role that impulsivity plays in the mechanism that operates between depression and hopelessness. The Inventory of Suicide Orientation (ISO-30); Beck Depression Inventory (BDI); Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS); and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) were administered a sample of 228 university students. The results indicated a significant positives correlations between BDI, BHS, BIS and ISO-30. Through the analysis of structural equation modeling, three models were established showing that impulsivity mediates the relationship between depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation and behavior.

 Read here

19- Design and optimization of process parameters of polyvinyl alcohol-graft-lactic acid films for transdermal drug delivery

CHAOWALIT MONTON, WIWAT PICHAYAKORN & JIRAPORNCHAI SUKSAEREE

The simplex lattice design was applied to determine the properties of polyvinyl alcohol-graft-lactic acid (PVA-g-LA) with different values for two independent variables: curing time and LA ratio that was varied among three levels: –1, 0, and +1. Dependent variables: swelling behavior in various swelling media and thermal analysis parameters were monitored. The prediction was accurate and low percent error. Propranolol hydrochloride was loaded into film. Response surface methodology can be used as a tool to predict the process parameters for PVA-g-LA transdermal films in an accurate manner. PVA-g-LA could control the release and permeation of drug from the film layer.

 Read here

20- Two phytocompounds from Schinopsis brasiliensis show promising antiviral activity with multiples targets in Influenza A virus

PEDRO HENRIQUE SETTE-DE-SOUZA, MOAN J.F. COSTA, FÁBIO A.C. ARAÚJO, EVERTON N. ALENCAR & LUCAS AMARAL-MACHADO

Influenza A virus affects billions of people worldwide. Conventional treatments still present limitations related to drug-resistance and severe side effects. As a result, natural product-derived molecules have been increasingly investigated as prospect drug candidates. This study aimed to investigate the possible anti-flu activity of the Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. phytochemical compounds. The molecular docking, predicted antiviral activity, predicted toxicity and pharmacokinetics investigations were conducted. The results demonstrated that Syringaresinol and Cycloartenone display promising in silico antiviral activity and safety. Syringaresinol and Cycloartenone have multiple targets in Influenza A virus and showed themselves as promising for the therapeutic arsenal against the flu.

 Read here

21- Resistance training increases insulin-induced vasodilation in the mesenteric artery of healthy rats

JOÃO E.S. ARAUJO, RODRIGO M. DOS SANTOS, DAVI P.M. OLIVEIRA, FABRÍCIO N. MACEDO, JULLYANA S.S. QUINTANS, ROSANA S.S. BARRETO, SANDRA L. SANTOS, MARCIO R.V. SANTOS, LUCINDO J.Q. JUNIOR & ANDRÉ S. BARRETO

Insulin acts to maintain vascular homeostasis. However, when endothelial cells show reduced insulin sensitivity, the vasodilator response is impaired, changing the control of tone and blood flow, thus allowing the onset of peripheral vascular diseases, due to damage caused to the vascular endothelium, influencing the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, in the present study, resistance training was able to increase vasodilator life and attenuate the vasoconstrictor pathway of insulin, which can be an important non-pharmacological tool in the prevention and treatment of endothelial dysfunction, reducing the development of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction, stroke and hypertension.

 Read here

22- In vivo anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects, and in vitro antioxidant, antiglycant and anti-neuroinflammatory actions of Syzygium malaccense

RENATA F. MENDES, PAULA M.Q. BELLOZI, JÉSSICA L. MOTA CONEGUNDES, MARIA F. FERNANDES, NÍCOLAS C.C. PINTO, JOSIANE M. DA SILVA, JULIANA C. DA COSTA, LUCIANA M. CHEDIER, ALBERTO C. P. DIAS & ELITA SCIO

In Brasil, “jambo” is the popular name of a plant species known as Syzygium malaccense. The leaves of this plant are popularly used to treat inflammation and pain-related ailments. The main objective of this work was to demonstrate, throughout in vitro and in vivo tests, the potential of the jambo extract to be used as antioxidant, antiglycant, anti-inflammatory, including anti-neuroinflammatory, and antinociceptive. In that way, each test confirmed that the jambo extract presents all those investigated activities, and the main substances involved in those actions are also reported.

 Read here

23- Ages and Stages Questionnaires Brazil in monitoring development in early childhood education

MAYSA M.A. RAMOS & PATRÍCIA CARLA S. DELLA BARBA

The present study aimed to outline through Third Ages and Stages Questionnaires Edition - ASQ-3 the profile of the global development of children from 5 to 50 months who attended the Municipal Centers of Early Childhood Education, as well as to verify the applicability of this instrument by preschool teacher in the context of early childhood education. As a result, it became clear that the importance of monitoring child development, especially in these spaces and by these professionals, as well as the need for complementary instruments that enable a more focused look at the individuality of each child.

 Read here

24- Purification and characterization of fibrinolytic protease from Streptomyces parvulus by polyethylene glycol-phosphate aqueous two-phase system

VIVIANE N.S. ALENCAR, MARIA CLARA DO NASCIMENTO, JULYANNE V. DOS SANTOS FERREIRA, JUANIZE M. DA SILVA BATISTA, MARCIA N.C. DA CUNHA, JÉSSICA M. DO NASCIMENTO, RENATA V. DA SILVA SOBRAL, MILENA T.T. DO COUTO, THIAGO P. NASCIMENTO, ROMERO M.P.B. COSTA, ANA LÚCIA F. PORTO & ANA CRISTINA L. LEITE

Fibrinolytic proteases are a promising alternative in the pharmaceutical industry, they are used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, especially thrombosis. Microorganisms are the most interesting source of fibrinolytic proteases. Streptomyces is a genus of gram-positive aerobic bacteria. Streptomyces parvulus DPUA 1573 was isolated from Amazonian lichens. The aim of this study was the production of fibrinolytic protease from Streptomyces parvulus DPUA 1573, recovery of the protease by aqueous two-phase system and partial biochemical characterization of the enzyme. The fibrinolytic protease from Streptomyces parvulus proved to be a viable option for the development of a possible drug with fibrinolytic action.

 Read here

CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

25- The karyotype of Adenia and the origin of the base number x = 12 in Passifloroideae (Passifloraceae)

NATONIEL FRANKLIN DE MELO & MARCELO GUERRA

The chromosome number and 35S rDNA sites of three species of Adenia were analyzed and reevaluated the base number of the genus, the subfamily Passifloroideae and the family Passifloraceae, including the chromosome data for its two other subfamilies, Turneroideae and Malesherbioideae. We suggest that the base number of Passifloraceae was x = 7, which by dysploidy and a whole genomic duplication generated x = 12 for the subfamily Passifloroideae, as observed in the genera Adenia and Passiflora.

 Read here

26- The brief methylprednisolone administration is crucial to mitigate cardiac dysfunction after myocardial infarction

ALAN CHRISTHIAN BAHR, JULIA P. DA LUZ, RAYANE B. TEIXEIRA, PATRICK TÜRCK, ALEXSANDRA ZIMMER, ALEXANDRE L. DE CASTRO, EDUARDO E. DOS REIS, FERNANDA VISIOLI, ADRIANE BELLÓ-KLEIN, ALEX SANDER R. ARAUJO & PAULO C. SCHENKEL

Although the transition from acute myocardial infarction to heart failure has been strongly associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, therapies have failed to mitigate this transition. In this context, our aim was to evaluate if the brief methylprednisolone acetate administration could be determinant for heart adaptation 56 days after acute myocardial infarction induction. Methylprednisolone acetate attenuated matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity, cardiac dilatation, and prevented the onset of pulmonary congestion, as well as avoided cardiac hypertrophy. Thus, our data suggest that administration of methylprednisolone acetate shortly after acute myocardial infarction may be a therapeutic alternative for attenuation of detrimental ventricular remodeling.

 Read here

27- Nectary structure is not related to pollination system in Trichocereeae cactus from Northwest Argentina

VALERIA V. GONZÁLEZ, PABLO GOROSTIAGUE, PABLO ORTEGA-BAES, BEATRIZ G. GALATI & MARÍA S. FERRUCCI

This paper deals about the relationships between floral nectary structure and floral phenotypic specialization in bird-pollinated Trichocereeae species from Argentina. Floral nectary morpho-anatomy was analyzed under light microscope and scanning and transmission electron microscopes. All species studied show a nectar chamber located under the base of the filaments, with structural similarities and epidermis surface with distinctive patterns in each genus. The main findings reveal that anatomical variants are not consistent with the floral pollination syndromes neither with the pollinator system. The basic morpho-anatomy and location of the nectar chamber evidence phylogenetic conservatism. These results contribute to the interpretation of the evolutionary trend of the floral nectary and to the understanding of its systematic value in Cactaceae.

 Read here

MICROBIOLOGY

28- Thermophilic fungi in Araucaria Forest, Atlantic Forest Biome, Brazil

MARCIO ANDRÉ ANTONELLI, ANDRÉ LUIZ GAGLIOTI, PAULO ROBERTO DA SILVA & ADRIANA KNOB

Actually, the lack of data about thermophilic fungi from the Brazil is a limiting factor that contributes for the incompleteness understanding of the group’s biogeography patterns, phylogenies and coevolution relationships. In order to reduce this gap, we aimed to characterize thermophilic filamentous fungi in Atlantic Forest biome. In total, 240 heat-tolerant strains were isolated and identified as Thermothielavioides terrestris, Thielavia sp., Thermoascus crustaceus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizomucor miehei, Rhizomucor pusillus, and Rhizopus microsporus. Our data reveals the apparent diversity of the Neotropical realm and may serve as reference to future studies that will try to elucidate important aspects of group.

 Read here

29- Characterization of the antimicrobial activity produced by Bacillus sp. isolated from wetland sediment

LUCIANI CAVALINI, PRISCILA JANKOSKI, ANA PAULA F. CORREA, ADRIANO BRANDELLI & AMANDA S. DA MOTTA

Bacillus sp. present the potential for inhibiting various pathogens, In this study, bacteria were isolated from sediment samples from humid areas of a Natural Conservation Unit. The biological activity of Bacillus sp. sed 1.4 present specific activity of 769.23 AU/mg, with a molecular mass of approximately 148 kDa. This antimicrobial substance presente thermal stability at 100ºC for 5 min and was active againts Listeria species. Considering the importance of the Listeria genus in the area of  food safety, this antimicrobial activity should be further explored, specifically in the field of  dairy products and with a focus on food biopreservation studies.

 Read here

30- Combined effect of carvacrol, thymol and nisin against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella Enteritidis

CAROLINE HECKLER, VOLTAIRE SANT’ANNA, ADRIANO BRANDELLI & PATRÍCIA S. MALHEIROS

This study focuses on investigate the combined effect of carvacrol, thymol and nisin against Staphylococcus aureus and carvacrol and thymol against Salmonella Enteritidis. First, we determined the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC). Subsequently, a factorial method of independent variables was used to study the combined effect of antimicrobials. Results showed that combinations of carvacrol-thymol-nisin, carvacrol-thymol, nisin-thymol and nisin-carvacrol attained a significant inhibition of S. aureus. Similarly, there was significant reduction of Salmonella Enteritidis due to combined effect of thymol-carvacrol. Therefore, the combinations of natural antimicrobials described in this work showed potential to be used as an additional barrier for food safety.

 Read here

31- Analyses of the response of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa against monotherapy and combined therapy using quantum dots and proteomics

JAILTON L.C. LIMA, JUSSYÊGLES N.P. PEREIRA, BRUNO L. RAPOSO, ADRIANA FONTES, PAULO E. CABRAL FILHO, REGINALDO G. LIMA NETO, RAFAEL M. XIMENES & MARIA AMÉLIA V. MACIEL

This study evaluate β-lactamases and quorum sensing genes, production of biofilm, and the response against therapies in Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA). Six isolates were biofilm producers, had QS genes, and 66.7% of them presented blaKPC gene. An isolate, blaKPC positive, was selected to assess its response to mono/combined therapy. Quantum dots (QDs) conjugated to meropenem (MPM) triggered the biofilm formation. Later, azithromycin association inhibited this effect. Proteomics analysis showed that MPM/polymyxin treatment suppressed transglycosylase protein expression, while azithromycin association induced RpoN expression. Therefore, this study showed that QDs and proteomic analyzes were promising to understand as CRPA strain reacts to antimicrobial treatment.

 Read here

32- Pendimethalin biodegradation by soil strains of Burkholderia sp. and Methylobacterium radiotolerans

MATHEUS I.S. SANTOS, ÉRIKA C.T.A. BRANDÃO, EWERTON SANTOS, MARCUS VINÍCIUS A. BATISTA, CHARLES S. ESTEVAM, MARCELO R. ALEXANDRE & MARCELO F. FERNANDES

Pendimethalin herbicide is widely used and persists in the environment as a contaminant causing negative impacts, including for human health. Microorganisms have the capacity to remove many contaminants from the environment. Thus, in this work we verified the efficiency of two soil bacterial species prospected by molecular modelling of cytochrome P450 in to degrade pendimethalin. Both strains (Burkholderia sp. F7G4PR33-4 and Methylobacterium radiotolerans A6A1PR46-4) were able to degrade pendimethalin under the two conditions experienced. These findings contribute to the biotechnological potential of microorganisms in the degradation and bioremediation of contaminated areas with pendimethalin.

 Read here

33- A diverse and partially cellulolytic fungal community contributes to the diet of three species of the aquatic insect Phylloicus (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) in Amazonian streams

TAIDES T. DOS SANTOS, ANA MARIA O. PES & PAULA B. DE MORAIS

There is strong evidence of the collaboration between the microbial world of Fungi with animals and plants. Insects are known to depend on fungi for food and immune protection, and there is a typical micobiome in the digestive tract of bees, colleopterans and butterflies. We investigated the presence and possible contribution of fungi to ecology of insect larvae of the genus Phylloicus that live in streams of Amazonia and Cerrado of Brazil. We found a diverse community of fungi and they occur with exclusivity in different species of Phylloicus. Those fungi enter the larva as food items.

 Read here

ECOSYSTEMS

34- Viability of sex identification of the blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) based on iris color sexual dichromatism

ANTONIO I.S. NETO, EDMA S. DE ANTONIO, LAIZE TOMAZI, MÁRCIO B. DA SILVA & RICARDO E. FRAGA

The present study assesses the possibility of a theorized sexual dimorphism in the iris coloration of the turquoise-fronted parrots (Amazona aestiva). Such dimorphism would manifest itself in the form of a predominantly red-orange iris color in females, while males would present yellow-orange irises. The process to determine the sex of turquoise-fronted parrots can be quite complex, often involving specialized biomolecular processes; thus, a more practical alternative to identify sex on this species can simplify conservation initiatives involving A. aestiva

 Read here

35- A new report of phytomelanin in cypselae of Vernonieae: the case of the type species of Lychnophora Mart.

DANILO MARQUES, JULIANA MARZINEK & ORLANDO C. DE-PAULA

Phytomelanin is a mechanically hard, blackish, and inert substance rarely found in plants. In Asteraceae, this substance was historically associated with the Heliantheae alliance, but recent studies have observed it in unrelated groups as Heterocoma and Wunderlichia. We found phytomelanin in cypselae of Lychnophora salicifolia an unusual feature in Vernonieae previously found only in Heterocoma. Phytomelanin fills the intercellular spaces of the sclerenchymatic outer mesocarp in L. salicifolia. Results doubt the (syn)apomorphy status in Heterocoma, suggest the phytomelanin may have not the same evolutionary significance in Lychnophorinae as in other tribes and proposes new perspectives for studies in Asteraceae.

 Read here

36- Can a biopesticide based on Bacillus thuringiensis affect the physiology and histomorphology of Arapaima gigas?

WAGNER S. MARIANO, JEFFESSON OLIVEIRA-LIMA, MARCELA A. SANTUCI, LIANA B.D. LIMA, SANDRO E. MORON & MARCOS TAVARES-DIAS

In agriculture, the use of biopesticides based on Bacillus thuringiensis has been considered harmless for non-target organisms such as fish. Effects of a biopesticide based on B. thuringiensis on the physiology and histology of the liver, kidney and intestine of Arapaima gigas was investigated using exposure in water and in the diet of fishes. Fish subjected to B. thuringiensis in the water of their breeding and feeding tanks exhibited mortality due to blood changes. Histopathological alterations in the liver and kidney were observed. These alterations indicate that care should be taken with the dispersion of biopesticides based on B. thuringiensis.

 Read here

37- Taxonomy of Hohenbergia lanata Pereira & Moutinho, new collections with an amendment to its description

BRAYAN P. CAVALCANTE, EVERTON H. DE SOUZA, LEONARDO M. VERSIEUX & ADRIANA P. MARTINELLI

Hohenbergia lanata is a rare bromeliad, endemic of state of Bahia, Brazil, earlier described based on a cultivated specimen and never photographed in field, being available only in a few herborized collections. Here we describe this species from new natural populations, providing new detailed information about it. Hohenbergia lanata presents a high ornamental prospective due to the rusticity of the plant, the tubular and reddish rosette, and the light pink inflorescence with flowers yellow-colored. Additionally, we define its conservation status as endangered, which calls the attention for the need of species conservation.

 Read here

38- New Law of Brazilian Biodiversity: Legal Aspects and Impact in the Field of Biotechnology

MARCELO FOLGOSI, ALESSANDRA L. VALVERDE, SORELE B. FIAUX, SAMANTA C. MOURÃO, RICARDO H. LEAL, ALOYSIO M.F. CERQUEIRA, SÁVIO F. BRUNO, OLIVIA V.D. WEID, RENATA ANGELI, JOSÉ C.D. NETO, MIRIAM A. DE SOUZA, RITA L. PAIXÃO, GUTEMBERG G. ALVES, MARCELO S. GONZALEZ & SELMA R. DE PAIVA

Access to Genetic Resources (GR) and Traditional Knowledge Associated with GR (ATK) has been regulated in Brazil since 2001. A new law (2015) determined the rules of distribution of benefits obtained for conservation and consignment to the outside of organisms shipped for GR. Therefore, the international treaties on GR/ATK for research and bioprospecting have been causing difficulties for Brazilian researchers by the lack of information for compliance with the legislation. Herein, the members of the Committee for GR/ATK of the Federal Fluminense University performed a reflection to understand the new legislation in the field of Biotechnology associated with Brazilian Biodiversity.

 Read here

39- Assessing the relationship between species traits and extinction risk at a regional level: an analysis involving Brazilian terrestrial mammals

MATHEUS C. DRAGO, LETÍCIA M. RAPOSO & DAVOR VRCIBRADIC

In this study, we assess if the national conservation status of Brazilian mammals is related to their taxonomic group and to some of their characteristics, such as body mass, diet, and litter size. We found that the two groups that presented the highest relative frequencies of threatened species were “ungulates” and Carnivora. Additionally, we observed that mammals with a body mass of 10 kg or more and/or with carnivorous diet had higher relative frequencies of threatened taxa. We therefore believe that our study has a broad potential for the conservation of species at the regional level.

 Read here

40- Anuran diversity in ponds associated with soybean plantations

GUILHERME G. CUNHA, MARINA S. DALZOCHIO & ALEXANDRO M. TOZETTI

In this manuscript, we present results of the sampling effort that evaluated lakes impacted by the soybean crop. To measure and achieve results, we monitor frogs residing in lakes close to soybean cultivation through a community diversity survey, in addition to carrying out a specific genotoxic diagnosis. For a better data collection, we base ourselves on a methodology that reliably represents the reality in question. Thus, we seek to verify, in the natural environment of these animals, the reproduction of the results of experimental laboratory studies so that we can base preservation decisions on solid grounds on scientific data.

 Read here

41- Spatial and Seasonal Assessment of Water Quality in the Lobo Stream River Basin, Brazil Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques

GABRIELA L. NEVES, TAINÁ T. GUIMARÃES, PHELIPE S. ANJINHO, MARIANA A.G.A. BARBOSA, ALLITA R. DOS SANTOS, JORIM S. VIRGENS FILHO & FREDERICO F. MAUAD

The Ribeirão do Lobo Hydrographic Basin is extremely important for the Central-Eastern region of the São Paulo state, however, this research showed a degradation in the water quality of their water bodies. The results obtained by the multivariate analysis indicated that one of the main causes of water pollution is related to the domestic wastewater from the sewage treatment plant in the municipality of Itirapina. Moreover, erosive processes of the river banks caused by inadequate management of pasture and leaching from agricultural areas were also identified as factors responsible for the reduction of water quality in the basin.

 Read here

42- Fluctuating asymmetry and organosomatic indexes in fish: the Corocoro grunt as a case study (Haemulidae)

LUANA BARBOSA SEIXAS, LUCIANO NEVES DOS SANTOS & ALEJANDRA FILIPPO GONZALEZ NEVES DOS SANTOS

The composite fluctuating asymmetry (CFA) was used to calculate the combined effects of FA over four organosomatic indexes of 66 Corocoro grunt caught during 2011 in Guanabara Bay, Brazil. Redundancy Analysis (RDA) confirmed a significant relationship between CFA and the physiological descriptors, but without clear differences among juveniles, adults, and sexes. Our results support the potential of CFA to be used as a proxy of environmental effects over reef-associated fish species in a tropical bay, but the relationship between CFA and physiological descriptors is complex, and further studies, such as experimental trials are needed.

 Read here

43- Long-term standardized ecological research in an Amazonian savanna: a laboratory under threat

RODRIGO F. FADINI, CARLOS R. BROCARDO, CLARISSA ROSA, SUSAN ARAGÓN, ALBERTINA P. LIMA & WILLIAM E. MAGNUSSON

Amazonian savannahs are poorly known compared to forests. Here we tell the story of a long-term standardized ecological research site located in one of the popular tourist destinations in the Amazon, the Alter do Chão village, surrounded by savannahs and forest fragments. We presented the main ecological research questions and results over a few decades of studies. Finally, we discuss the future prospects and local threats to the area that endanger a living laboratory of ecological studies and training.

 Read here

44- Effects of the habitat on anuran blood parasites in the Eastern Brazilian Amazon

SÍLVIA R.C. PINHO, SÉRGIO RODRÍGUEZ-MÁLAGA, RODRIGO LOZANO-OSORIO, FABRÍCIO S. CORREA, IAGO B. SILVA & MARIA C. SANTOS-COSTA

This is the first study in Brazilian Amazon that analyses the diversity of parasites in the blood of de anurans in this region. With our results, we may better understand the extent of the impacts of monocultures on interspecific interactions (parasites and hosts) and minimize the negative impacts on ecological processes. In addition, it is important to understand both diversity and interaction between parasites and wild animals, since environmental changes affects this dynamic, with parasite transmission to other species, including humans.

 Read here

45- Malacofauna of lotic environments in the Northeast and Brazilian semiarid region: current knowledge and new records

MANUELLA F. LEAL, LUIZ RICARDO L. SIMONE, EMERSON S. CASTRO, ORIANNA DOS SANTOS, ANTÔNIA R.V. DA SILVA, KARINA K.S. DANTAS, JOÃO H. DE SOUSA, EDSON L. DA SILVA, TAMARIS G. PINHEIRO & ANA CAROLINA F. LACERDA

Freshwater molluscks have great economic and environmental importance however, poorly studied in the Piauí state. Through collections and systematic review, it was possible to gather information about the diversity of these animals for the Northeast and Brazilian semiarid regions, in addition to including five new records for Piauí. The new occurrences represent 7 and 13% of the current knowledge its diversity in the Northeast and semiarid regions, respectively. The results also show the presence of species of medical and veterinary importance in addition to invasive exotics, showing the promising character of monitoring the malacofauna in the semiarid region of Piauí.

 Read here

GEOSCIENCES

46- Bouguer anomaly inversion and hydrocode modeling of the central uplift of the Araguainha impact structure

MARCELLE R. MIYAZAKI, EMILSON P. LEITE, MARCOS A.R. VASCONCELOS, KAI WÜNNEMANN & ALVARO P. CRÓSTA

Araguainha is a 40 km wide impact crater formed in sedimentary rocks of the Paraná Basin, Brazil. Because it is known that the gravity acceleration on the surface of the Earth varies depending on the mass density distribution in its interior, we used gravity data collected over the central area of the structure to produce a 3-D mass density model in the region below the structure. Numerical modeling outputs showing the early stages of the crater formation are consistent with the 3-D density model. Results show that the basement rocks were uplifted by ~2 km from their original position.

 Read here

47- Crystallization conditions of two adjacent epidote + diopside-bearing granitic stocks, northeastern Brazil

RENAN SIQUEIRA, ALCIDES N. SIAL & VALDEREZ PINTO FERREIRA

The Tamboril and Olho d’Água stocks are calc-alkalic granitic rocks in the Cachoeirinha–Salgueiro Terrane, northeastern Brazil. The Olho d’Água stock is composed of clinopyroxene-amphibole–biotite tonalite, pistacite (Ps_18–26), crystallization pressure range 5.1 to 6.6 kbar and temperatures 637 to 679 ºC. The Tamboril stock is an amphibole biotite ± clinopyroxene granodiorite, with pistacite (Ps_17-20), crystallization pressure range 6.2 to 7.0 kbar and temperatures 587 to 641 ºC. Both stocks have amphibole–rich clots. Our data suggest that the studied stocks crystallized from two distinct magmatic pulses formed from fractional melting of a single amphibolitic source, in a convective magmatic chamber, at rather high pressure.

 Read here

ANIMAL SCIENCE

48- Body size, age and growth in males populations of Boana pulchella (Anura, Hylidae)

MARIANA BARAQUET, FAVIO E. POLLO, MANUEL A. OTERO, PABLO R. GRENAT, NANCY E. SALAS & ADOLFO L. MARTINO

We studied, for the first time, the life-history traits of Boana pulchella from Las Acequias, Río Cuarto and Alejandro Roca populations (Argentina) using the skeletochronological method. The average snout-vent length of males sexually mature was 43.39 mm, maximum longevity was 5 years (5 LA, 4 RC, 3 AR) and minimum age at sexual maturity was same in the three populations (2 years), with mean of 2.96 years. Body size and age were positively correlated (except in AR). The growth patterns do not show differences between populations, and the growth rate decrease after the attainment of sexual maturity.

 Read here

49- Glucose tolerance in six fish species reared in Brazil: Differences between carnivorous and omnivorous

ANDERSON M. DE SOUZA, CARLOS E. COPATTI, DANIELA F.B. CAMPECHE, FÚLVIO V.S.T. DE MELO & JOSÉ F.B. MELO

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pure glucose, glucose plus fructose, and fructose on the blood glucose of omnivorous fish tambaqui, Nile tilapia, piau, and carnivorous fish hybrid Amazon catfish, pacamã, and traíra. In the omnivorous, glycemic levels were reduced from 2 to 4 h, and the regulation to baseline occurred from 4 to 8 h. In the carnivores, blood glucose levels declined between 1 and 8 h, and return to baseline was observed from 8 to 16 h. Blood glucose levels are regulated in a shorter time in Nile tilapia (mainly), piau and pacamã.

 Read here

50- Linalool induces relaxation of the mantle of golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata)

ADRIANE E. BIANCHINI, SHARINE N. DESCOVI, BERTA M. HEINZMANN & BERNARDO BALDISSEROTTO

Evaluated itself the efficacy of natural substances as an alternative for relaxation of gastropods for commercial or scientific research purposes. Essential oils (Aloysia triphylla and Lippia alba) and isolated compounds (Citral and linalool) were tested. Linalool was effective in Pomacea canaliculata and can be a promising relaxant for use in mollusks. In addition, aversive behavior of the animal (closure of the operculum) was observed at high concentrations of the citral, which may have influenced the ineffectiveness of this compound.

 Read here

51- Helminth-fauna of Patagonian armadillos: comparative analysis of parasites geographical variation

JORGE ALBERTO GALLO, MARÍA CECILIA EZQUIAGA, LAURA FASOLA & AGUSTÍN M. ABBA

Patagonia is inhabited by two armadillo species, Chaetophractus villosus and Zaedyus pichiy. In this study we describe and analyze the variation on helminth fauna of these armadillos compared with northern localities described in previous studies. A total of 49 armadillos were collected in Patagonia. The parasite richness in Patagonia decreases almost 50% in both armadillos. The loss of some helminths in Z. pichiy could be the result of lower temperatures or the absence of intermediate arthropods hosts. But in C. villosus the absence of some helminths with Patagonian distribution could be explained by its recent dispersion in Patagonia.

 Read here

52- Psyllotoxus griseocinctus Thomson, 1868 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae): a potential pest of roses in Brazil revealed by its lifecycle and niche modeling

DIEGO S. SOUZA, SILVANA LAMPERT, TATIANA A. SEPÚLVEDA, PRISCILA A. SANZ-VEIGA & MARCOANDRE SAVARIS

The onciderines (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) are commonly referred to as twig girdler beetles because the females of some species cut/circumcise the branches of living plants for oviposition. In Brazil, over 10 species used by twig girdlers as host plants are agricultural crops or carry some economic importance, especially from the families and Myrtaceae and Rosaceae. We report the twig girdler Psyllotoxus griseocinctus Thomson attacking a rose plant (Rosa sp.) in Southern Brazil and followed its development from egg to adult, illustrating the morphological transformations at each stage and the damage caused to the plant.

 Read here

53- Curcuma longa hydrolate improves Nile tilapia survival in a recirculation rearing system, maintaining the animal homeostasis and modulating the gut microbial community

MARINA O. PEREIRA, JULIA D. HESS, JULIO CESAR B. RODHERMEL, DANIEL R. FARIAS, DELANO D. SCHLEDER, LUCIANO ALVES, FABIANO C. BERTOLDI, AMANDA CHABAN, JAQUELINE I.A. DE ANDRADE & ADOLFO JATOBÁ

Hydrolate is a by-product of the extraction of essential oils that is commonly discarded after the process. This product contains pharmacological characteristics with potential veterinary use in tilapiculture, however until then its effects on the microbiota and animal health when added to the diet were unknown. Based on this research, the dietary addition of Curcuma longa hydrolate to Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) had beneficial effects on the gut microbial community and, most likely, on the physiological performance of Nile tilapia in maintaining fish homeostasis.

 Read here

54- Polyculture of bullfrog tadpoles and Nile tilapia fry

CRISTIANE SARTURI, GUILHERME M. HELUY, PETER C.J. SARMIENTO, PAULO GUSTAVO FIGUEIREDO, THIAGO B.F. JORGE, SILVIA CONCEIÇÃO R.P. MELLO, LEONARDO R.V. RAMOS & MARCELO M. PEREIRA

Two experiments were carried out to test better stocking proportion according to animal size for tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and tadpole (Lithobates catesbeianus). In the first trial, mortality rate differed significantly, with the polyculture treatments having almost 100% mortality of tadpoles. In the second experiment, after adjustments in the initial size of the species, there were significant differences between treatments, with the 12.5% tilapia + 87.5% tadpole polyculture and the tadpole monoculture providing the best results.

 Read here

55- Anti-Brucella canis antibodies in dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum and associated histological alterations in the genital tract

VIVIANE C. BOECHAT, SANDRO A. PEREIRA, ARTUR A.V. MENDES JÚNIOR, ACÁCIA F. VICENTE, JANE MEGID, MAURÍCIO G. DASSO, ROGERIO O. RODRIGUES, LUCIANA F.C. MIRANDA, FABIANO B. FIGUEIREDO, LUIZ C. FERREIRA, RAYANE TELES-DE-FREITAS, RAFAELA V. BRUNO & RODRIGO C. MENEZES

Canine brucellosis caused by the bacteria Brucella canis and canine visceral leishmaniasis caused by the protozoa Leishmania infantum are worldwide zoonotic diseases. Both diseases can cause inflammation in the genital tract of dogs and are of differential diagnosis. This study investigated B. canis in 106 L. infantum-seropositive dogs from a visceral leishmaniasis-endemic area in Brazil. Anti-B. canis antibodies were detected in seven dogs whose clinical signs, L. infantum load and histological alterations were similar to those of seronegative animals. The circulation of anti-B. canis antibodies was low but demonstrates the exposure of dogs to this bacterium in the investigated area.

 Read here

56- Ethanol extracts of mango seeds added to the diet of pigs increases antioxidant capacity of processed pork

LINA R.S. ARAÚJO, PEDRO H. WATANABE, DANILO R. FERNANDES, MARCELLE C.A. MELLO, IRVILA R. DE O. MAIA, ÊNIO C. DA SILVA, ROBERT W. OWEN, GERMANO A.J. DO NASCIMENTO, MARIA T.S. TREVISAN & EDNARDO R. FREITAS

This study evaluated the effects of mango seed ethanol extracts (EEMS) added to the diet of pigs on qualitative parameters and, total antioxidant capacity of mortadella produced from these animals. It was observed that polyphenolic antioxidants incorporated into pork through the diet positively influenced the levels of polyphenolic compounds and, the total antioxidant capacity of processed meat. Mortadella made from pork produced following supplementation of pig diets with extract rich polyphenol content resists thermal processing and although pH, color, oxidative stability and antioxidant potential remain unaffected, the content of total phenolic compounds increased significantly correlating with total antioxidant activity.

 Read here

57- The addition of green propolis to laying hens had positive effects on egg quality: lower bacteria counts in the shell and lipid peroxidation in the yolk

ANA CLAUDIA CASAGRANDE, GIOVANA C. MACHADO, ANDREI L. BRUNETTO, GABRIELA M. GALLI, GILNEIA DA ROSA, DENISE N. ARAUJO, MARCEL M. BOIAGO, CARINE F. SOUZA, MATHEUS M. BALDISSERA & ALEKSANDRO S. DA SILVA

The addition of green propolis extract to the laying hens' diet was used for improve the animal performance, egg quality, and reduce bacterial contamination in the egg. The dosages 10 and 20 mg green propolis/kg was able to reduce the total bacterial count and Escherichia coli in the eggshells. The addition of green propolis is able of reduce peroxidation, oxidation and increased the antioxidant capacity of eggs. These dosages reduced the egg mass, an undesirable effect for the laying poultry chain.

 Read here

58- Use of blend based on an emulsifier, monolaurin, and glycerides of butyric acid in the diet of broilers: impacts on intestinal health, performance, and meat

AMANDA B. ALMEIDA, DENISE N. ARAÚJO, JOÃO V. STRAPAZZON, CLEICIANE RITA, AMANDA DILDA, GIOVANA BALEN, GUILHERME L. DEOLINDO, DANIELA NESI, VALCENIR J.M. FURLAN, GIOVANA PELISSER, RICARDO E. MENDES, MATEUS FRACASSO, ROGER WAGNER, MARCEL M. BOIAGO & ALEKSANDRO S. DA SILVA

The inclusion of the blend based on emulsifier, monolaurin, glycerol, and butyric acids positively influenced feed conversion. Intake of blend increase cholesterol concentrations and balanced the oxidant/antioxidant status at the tissue level. Compared with antibiotics, we noticed a positive result for a possible replacement of the antimicrobial, given that there were no extreme differences between the treatments. The diet that used the blend had oil-sparing effects (loss 0.8%). Oxidative reduction and the antioxidant increase were a positive in meat.

 Read here

CROP SCIENCE

59- Brazilian peppertree, eucalyptus, and velame honeys: does palynology confirm the predominant flower sources indicated by beekeepers?

MICHELE S.F. BANDEIRA & JAÍLSON S. NOVAIS

We investigated ten honey samples from the Discovery Coast of Bahia, Brazil, to confirm the three predominant flower sources indicated by regional beekeepers: Brazilian peppertree, eucalyptus, and velame. After chemical treatment, we microscopically identified the pollen grains found in the honey. The analysis confirmed the predominant eucalyptus flower source indicated for four samples. Eucalyptus predominated for another three samples previously indicated as peppertree and velame. We conclude that regional honeys marketed as having a predominant flower source may have distinct botanical origin. This demands further research aimed at reviewing which bee plants provide resources for honey in the Discovery Coast.

 Read here

60- What is the influence of agroecological and conventional crops under ant assemblages?

JULIANA S. CARVALHO, JOSÉ MANUEL O. HENRIQUEZ, BRUNO S. DEL PINO, JUNIR A. LUTINSKI, ANA C.R. DE LIMA & FLÁVIO R.M. GARCIA

The objective of the study was to compare the richness and diversity of ant assemblages in an agroecological system under peach orchard, conventional system under peach orchard cultivation and native vegetation in rural properties located in a Pampa Biome. The study was conducted in the summer and winter of 2017 and 2018. The assemblages were characterized and compared for diversity and richness. The results found demonstrated that conservationist systems tend to harbor greater wealth and diversity of ant assemblages, as well as occurring in native areas.

 Read here

FORESTRY SCIENCE

61- Signatures of natural selection in morphological quantitative traits in Argentinean populations of Senegalia gilliesii (Fabaceae)

CAROLINA L. POMETTI, JUAN C. VILARDI & CECILIA F. BESSEGA

In order to elucidate the role of evolutionary forces in shaping the variation of quantitative traits in Senegalia gilliesii we evaluate seven phenotypic traits in three Argentinean populations. The phenotypic traits were compared with molecular markers. Here we search for signatures of selection. Overall, our findings suggest a prominent role of stabilizing selection in all foliar traits and stipular spine length. These results could be extrapolated to other tropical and subtropical acacias. Further studies are needed to analyse the mechanisms underlying genetic differentiation in natural populations of S. gilliesii, find its relationship with eco-geographical variables.

 Read here

ENGINEERING SCIENCES

62- Oil bioremediation in soils contaminated with oil spills in tropical environments

ALEJANDRO MARTÍNEZ-RIVERA & SANTIAGO-ALONSO CARDONA-GALLO

Bioremediation techniques like bioaugmentation and biostimulation are an economical and environmentally friendly procedure. These techniques with periodic additions of sustainable stimulants as tween 80, leonardite, D-limonene and molasses for stimulants attempt to improve TPH removal efficiency of native organisms in contaminated soils. This research suggests that the implementation of bioaugmentation and biostimulation methods will be used a larger scale in contaminated sites with these stimulants provided a powerful insight on nutrient-induced native microorganisms dynamics community in soil contaminated which might be useful in designing bioremediation strategies for the treatment of oil spills.

 Read here

63- Evaluation of Technical Feasibility of Reusing Coal Ash in Dense Asphalt Mixes by Assessing Mechanical Performance

BRENO BARRA, LETO MOMM, YADER GUERRERO, ALEXANDRE MIKOWSKI, ESTÉFANI CLARA, MAI-LAN NGUYEN & GARY B. HUGHES

This manuscript approaches the assessment with regards to technical feasibility of reusing coal ash in the formulation design of dense asphalt mixes, amplifying scientific discussions and points of view on mitigation of environmental impacts. The authors have no doubt that this goal was actually achieved, in which high technological tests were used to support the analyses made, as can be attested by reading the respective findings presented all over the publication. 

 Read here

64- Effects of riparian land use changes on soil attributes and concentrations of potentially toxic elements

GIULLIANA KARINE G. CUNHA, BRUNO G. DE FARIA, CLÍSTENES WILLIAMS A. DO NASCIMENTO, AIRON JOSÉ DA SILVA & KARINA PATRÍCIA V. DA CUNHA

Here, we studied the impact on soil quality and Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn concentration caused through changes in land use in riparian soils in northeastern Brazil. The results showed that replacing the natural vegetation in the riparian zone led to degradation gradient for land use. Concentrations of the Cd and Zn are above the background soil concentrations and may pose a risk to the environment and human health. Our data can be helpful to understand better the complex relationship between land use and environmental impacts in riparian zones in northeastern Brazil and similar settings worldwide. 

 Read here

65- Minimum streamflow regionalization in a Brazilian watershed under different clustering approaches

CARINA K. BORK, HUGO A.S. GUEDES, SAMUEL BESKOW, MICAEL DE S. FRAGA & MYLENA F. TORMAM

This paper compared different hierarchical and non-hierarchical clustering approaches for the delimitation of hydrologically homogeneous regions in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, aiming to regionalize the minimum streamflow that is equaled or exceeded in 90% of the time (Q₉₀). The results of this study highlighted that the clustering techniques had the potential to define hydrologically homogeneous regions, in the context of Q₉₀ in the Rio Grande do Sul State, mostly the Ward algorithm associated with the Manhattan distance, and the refined mathematical models provided excellent performance and can be used to estimate Q₉₀ in ungauged rivers.

 Read here

66- Meteorological droughts in part of southeastern Brazil: Understanding the last 100 years

VINÍCIUS O. SILVA & CARLOS R. MELLO

We analyzed droughts from the ending of 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries to the present using the Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standard Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), in five locations: São Paulo (SP), Belo Horizonte (BH), Campinas, Lavras, and Piracicaba. SPI showed the 2013/2014 hydrological year as the driest, except in BH and SP (1970/1971 and 1962/1963 years were the driest, respectively). SPEI showed 2013/2014 as the driest, except in SP (1998/1999; 1962/1963), and BH (1970/1971; 2000/2001). Three periods with consecutive droughts were observed: 1908/1918; 1968/1981 and 2013/2019. Wet season precipitation drives the droughts in southeastern Brazil.

 Read here

All abstracts of the publications were provided by the respective authors.

Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences
aabc@abc.org.br