ABSTRACT A feeding trial was performed to assess dietary protein:lipid ratios for the grow-out phase of the bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). Nine balanced isoenergetic diets were formulated, combining three different protein levels (300, 400, and 500 g kg−1) with three different lipid levels (50, 100, and 200 g kg−1), designated as P300/50L, P300/100L, P300/200L, P400/50L, P400/100L, P400/200L, P500/50L, P500/100L, and P500/200L. Additionally, a commercial fish feed, commonly used in Mexico to feed bullfrogs, was also tested during the experiment. Growth performance, animal performance parameters, carcass composition, and fatty acid profiles in muscle and liver were evaluated. The feeding trial results showed that all the experimental diets enhanced growth, feed conversion ratio, and frog-leg weight compared with the commercial diet. Bullfrogs had higher growth with 400 and 500 g kg−1 of dietary protein regardless of dietary lipid content. It was also notable that with the P500/200L diet, frogs doubled the weight of those fed the commercial diet. DHA, EPA, and total omega-3 fatty acids were double in muscle and two to eight times higher in the liver compared with the commercial diet. In all cases, the final proximal composition of carcass reflected the diet composition. It is suggested that a diet containing 400 g kg−1 of protein and 50 g kg−1 lipids (protein/lipid ratio: 7.4; gross energy: 18.2 MJ kg−1) is adequate for bullfrog performance during the grow-out phase to achieve market size in a shorter period, thus, reducing farming risks and production costs.

ABSTRACT The use of agroindustrial byproducts in cattle diets, such as castor-bean (Ricinus communis L.) meal, is a more sustainable practice because it does not compete with human food and reduces the volume of organic waste deposited in the environment. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of replacing soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) meal with castor-bean meal on the intake, digestibility, feeding behavior and performance of crossbred steers supplemented while on Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster ‘Marandu’ pasture. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete design with 40 animals, which started the experiment weighing 227.1 kg, at 10 mo of age, and were divided into four treatment groups. Castor-bean meal was added to replace soybean meal at the levels of 0, 90, 180, and 280 g kg-1 in the supplement, which was supplied at the rate of 0.4% of body weight. Total DM, pasture DM and neutral detergent fiber intakes did not change (P > 0.05) with the castor-bean levels added to the supplement. Ether extract intake and digestibility decreased linearly (P < 0.05). The animals showed no differences (P > 0.05) in production performance (average daily gain), which averaged 0.65 kg d-1. Grazing, idle, and rumination times were not influenced (P > 0.05) by the treatments. Castor-bean meal can be included up to 280 g kg-1 in the total diet without changing the performance of crossbred steers finished on tropical pasture.

RESUMO: O estabelecimento de condições de crescimento mínimo é fundamental para a conservação in vitro de germoplasma. Alterações nas concentrações do meio básico, na fonte de carbono, são fatores importantes na desaceleração do crescimento de plantas in vitro. Este trabalho teve como objetivo ajustar um protocolo de conservação in vitro de plantas do limoeiro ‘Rugoso da Flórida’. Microestacas de plantas previamente cultivadas in vitro, com aproximadamente 1 cm, foram inoculadas em tubos de ensaio contendo 10 mL do meio de cultura WPM em diferentes concentrações (1/1, 1/2 e 1/4), suplementado com 0; 12,5; 25 e 50 g.L-1 de sacarose, solidificado com 7 g.L-1 de ágar e o pH ajustado em 5,8. O experimento foi instalado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com 15 repetições, em esquema fatorial 3 x 4, e mantido sob condições controladas durante 360 dias. Após este período, foram avaliadas altura de planta em cm (AP), número de folhas verdes (NFV), número de folhas senescentes (NFS), número de microestacas (NM) e massa da planta seca em g (MPS). As variáveis que mais contribuíram para explicar a diferença existente no comportamento das plantas do limoeiro ‘Rugoso da Flórida’ no meio de cultura WPM foram NFV e AP com 61,63 e 35,08%, respectivamente. O meio de cultura WPM na sua concentração original com a adição de 25 g.L-1 de sacarose promoveu os melhores resultados na redução do crescimento das plantas in vitro do limoeiro ‘Rugoso da Flórida’, mantendo-as fisiologicamente sadias.

ABSTRACT: The establishment of minimum growth conditions is essential for in vitro germplasm conservation. Changes to the basic medium and carbon source concentrations are important factors for reducing plant growth in vitro. This study adjusted a protocol for the in vitro conservation of ‘Florida Rough’ lemon plants. Microcuttings (approximately 1 cm) from plants that were previously cultivated in vitro were inoculated into test tubes with 10 mL of woody plant medium (WPM) at different concentrations (1/1, 1/2 and 1/4) and supplemented with 0, 12.5, 25 and 50 g.L-1 of sucrose, solidified with 7 g.L-1 agar and adjusted to pH 5.8. The experiment was completely randomized in a 3 x 4 factorial design with 15 replications and was maintained under controlled conditions for 360 days. After this period the plant height in cm (PH), the plant dry mass in g (PDM) and the 21 numbers of green leaves (NGL), senescent leaves (NSL) and microcuttings (NM) were evaluated. The variables that best explained the observed behavior of the ‘Florida Rough’ lemon plants were NGL and PH, with values of 61.63 and 35.08%, respectively. The original concentration of the WPM with the addition of 25 g. L-1 of sucrose yielded the best ‘Florida Rough’ lemon plant growth reduction in vitro while maintaining the physiologically health of the plants.

Resumo Racional Considerando que o tratamento das fístulas anais tem risco de incontinência fecal e o crescente uso do Aloe Vera na medicina, há interesse em se pesquisar este fármaco. Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Aloe vera no tratamento das fístulas anais em ratos. Método Utilizou-se 30 ratos Wistar, os quais foram submetidos à criação de fístula anal e após 30 dias distribuídos em três grupos: Controle (GCo), Carbopol (GCa) e Aloe Vera (GAV). No GCo nenhum tratamento foi realizado, enquanto nos outros realizou-se infusão diária de 0,3 mL de Carbopol GCa e Carbopol mais extrato de Aloe Vera no GAV por 30 dias. Foram retirados os espécimes para estudo histológico, avaliou-se o fechamento do trajeto fistuloso, a área do trajeto remanescente, o infiltrado inflamatório e o grau de congestão vascular. Resultados Não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A média da área do trajeto remanescente foi 847,2 µm no GCo; 565,6 µm no GCa e 377,8 µm no GAV (p < 0,05). A média do escore de infiltrado inflamatório foi 2,4 no GCo; 2,4 no GCa e 2,3 no GAV (p > 0.05), enquanto na avaliação da congestão vascular observou-se média 1,6 no GCo; 1,4 no GCa e 1,1 no GAV (p < 0,05). Conclusão O extrato de Aloe Vera foi capaz de diminuir o lumen dos trajetos fistulosos e reduzir o grau de congestão vascular, porém, não permitiu o fechamento completo dos trajetos fistulosos nem diminuiu o processo inflamatório.

Abstract Rationale Considering that anal fistulae are still challenging regarding their treatment due to the risk of fecal incontinence in the most complex cases and the increasing use of phytotherapeutic drugs such as Aloe Vera in medicine, even with proven healing effectiveness, there is interest in researching this drug in the treatment of anal fistulae. Objective To evaluate the efficacy ofAloe Vera extract in the treatment of anal fistulae in rats. Method Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 250–300 g were submitted to anal fistula and after 30 days were divided into three groups: Control Group (GCo) (n = 5), Carbopol Group (GCa) (n = 5), and Aloe Vera Group (GAV) (n = 10). In the GCo no treatment was performed, while in the others a daily infusion of 0.3 mL of solution (Carbopol only in GCa and Carbopol plus Aloe Vera extract in the GAV) was performed through the external orifice of the fistula for 30 days. Afterwards, euthanasia was performed and specimens were removed for histological study. It was evaluated the closure of the fistulous tract, the area of the remaining tract, the inflammatory infiltrate and the degree of vascular congestion. The results were submitted to statistical treatment by Kruskall–Wallis test, considering p < 0.05. Results There was no complete closure of the fistulous tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was 847.2 µm in the GCo, 565.6 µm in the GCa and 377.8 µm in the GAV (p < 0.05). The mean of the inflammatory infiltrate score was 2.4 in the GCo, 2.4 in the GCa and 2.3 in the GAV (p > 0.05), while in the evaluation of vascular congestion, we observed a mean of 1.6 in the GCo, 1.4 in GCa and 1.1 in GAV (p < 0.05). Conclusion The extract of Aloe vera was able to reduce the lumen of the fistulous tract and reduce the degree of vascular congestion; however, it did not allow the complete closure of the fistulous tract nor diminished the inflammatory process.

Resumo Fundamento A prevalência da obesidade vem aumentando sistematicamente na população, inclusive nas crianças e adolescentes, ao redor do mundo. Objetivos Descrever curvas percentílicas de referência para a circunferência abdominal (CA) nas crianças brasileiras e fornecer pontos de corte da CA para identificar crianças com risco de obesidade. Métodos Um estudo multicêntrico, prospectivo, tranversal foi realizado em crianças com idades entre 6 e 10 anos, matriculadas no ensino fundamental de escolas públicas e particulares de 13 cidades do estado de São Paulo. A estatura, o peso e a CA foram medidos em duplicata em 22.000 crianças (11.199 meninos). Para estabelecer o melhor ponto de corte da CA para o diagnóstico da obesidade, foram calculadas curvas ROC com crianças classificadas como com peso normal e obesas, de acordo com as curvas do IMC, estratificadas por gênero e idade, e o índice Youden foi utilizado como a eficácia potencial máxima desse biomarcador. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados Os valores da CA aumentaram com a idade, tanto nos meninos quanto nas meninas. A prevalência de obesidade em cada grupo variou de 17% (6 anos de idade) a 21,6 % (9 anos de idade), dentre os meninos, e de 14,1% (7 anos de idade) a 17,3 % (9 anos de idade), dentre as meninas. As análises ROC mostraram o percentil 75 como ponto de corte para o risco de obesidade, e o diagnóstico de obesidade está classificado no percentil 85 ou acima. Conclusão Curvas de referência da CA específicas para idade e sexo em crianças brasileiras e pontos de corte para o risco de obesidade podem ser usados em triagem nacional e estudos intervencionais para reduzir a carga da obesidade no Brasil. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 114(3):530-537)

Abstract Backgroud The prevalence of obesity has systematically been increased in the population, including children and adolescents, around the world. Objectives To describe reference percentile curves for waist circumference (WC) in Brazilian children and provide cut-off values of WC to identify children at risk for obesity. Methods A multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional study was performed with children aged from 6 to 10 years old, enrolled in public and private elementary schools from 13 cities of the São Paulo State. Height, weight, and WC were measured in duplicate in 22,000 children (11,199 boys). To establish the WC best cut-off value for obesity diagnosis, ROC curves with children classified as normal weight and obese were calculated, according to BMI curves, stratified by gender and age, and the Youden Index was utilized as the maximum potential effectiveness of this biomarker. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results WC values increased with age in both boys and girls. The prevalence of obesity in each age group varied from 17% (6 years old) to 21.6% (9 years old) among boys, and from 14.1% (7 years old) to 17.3 % (9 years old) among girls. ROC analyses have shown the 75th percentile as a cut-off for obesity risk, and the diagnosis of obesity is classified on the 85th percentile or more. Conclusion Age and gender specific reference curves of WC for Brazilian children and cut-off values for obesity risk may be used for national screening and interventional studies to reduce the obesity burden in Brazil. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 114(3):530-537)

ABSTRACT This study was performed to identify the ideal amount of concentrate required for a diet based on cactus cladodes, sugarcane, and urea used to feed heifers. Twenty Girolando heifers (160±8.39 kg) were randomly distributed into four experimental treatments with 0, 0.40, 0.80, or 1.20 kg day−1 of concentrate. The basal diet contained [on dry matter (DM) basis] 38.1% sugarcane, 56.5% cactus cladodes [ Opuntia stricta (Haw). Haw.], 0.5% common salt, 1.1% mineral mixture, and 3.8% urea plus ammonium sulfate. The concentrate contained [on DM basis] 87% corn meal and 13% soybean meal. The basal diet and the concentrate were formulated to provide 13% crude protein (CP). The intake of DM (4.34-4.96 kg day−1), organic matter (3.96-4.98 kg day−1), CP (0.57-0.64 kg day−1), non-fibrous carbohydrates (2.20-2.61 kg day−1), and metabolizable energy (10.3-12.4 Mcal day−1) increased linearly with concentrate amount. Final body weight (196-224 kg), total body weight gain (36.9-61.2 kg), and average daily body weight gain (0.51-0.85 kg day−1) increased linearly with concentrate amount. The nitrogen balance was positive and increased linearly (54.8-62.3 g day−1) with concentrate amount. Based on the data, we recommend supplying six-month-old Girolando heifers (160 kg body weight) 1.20 kg concentrate day−1 added to a diet based on sugarcane and cactus cladodes plus urea for better productive and economic performance.

Summary: The Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a plant native to Paraguay known for the sweet taste of its leaves. In recent years the area planted in stevia has increased considerably in several countries as an alternative to the consumption of sucrose. The objective of this work was to determine the concentrations of stevioside and rebaudioside A in leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, variety Eirete, and their yield in response to application of different doses of nitrogen. The leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, Eirete variety, were used to determine yield and concentration of stevioside and rebaudioside A in a nitrogen dose application assay. The assay was conducted for four months in a soil-tezontle mix (porous volcanic rock) (60:40%). Chicken manure and vermicompost as a nitrogen source were used at three doses: 1, 2, and 4 g N plant-1. The treatments were generated from a complete 3 × 2 factorial array. These treatments were distributed in the greenhouse in a completely randomized block design with four replicates. Water by drip irrigation was supplied in correspondence to calculated daily evapotranspiration, and the maximum and minimum temperature data were used to obtain the mean temperature. This was used to determine growing degree days (GDD) and thus propose the phenological model. Five samplings were done to determine nutrient concentration, glucosides, plant height, basal buds, and shoot biomass. Physical characterization of the substrates was done at the beginning and at the end of the assay to observe changes in the substrate. For yield, the best response was with vermicompost, 4 g N plant-1, resulting in 9 buds and 19 g stevia leaves per plant, relative to the treatment with chicken manure at the same dose, which obtained 3 buds and 12 g plant-1. With regard to glucosides, the highest concentrations of stevioside and rebaudioside A were found in the treatments with vermicompost 1 and 2 g N plant-1 (11.1 and 12.1%, respectively). In relation to the physical properties of the substrate, there was an observed decrease in readily available water from the beginning to the end in the treatments with chicken manure, but not in the treatments with vermicompost. The phenological model shows that the energy required to harvest time from flowering is 604 GDD, although the highest concentration of glucosides was at 562 GDD, which indicates that harvest should be carried out at this phenological stage. The use of the vermicompost favors stevia vegetative growth. In addition, according to the data obtained, it promoted higher concentrations of stevioside and rebaudioside A and is thus an option for the organic fertilization of stevia.

Resumen: La Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni es una planta nativa de Paraguay conocida por el dulce sabor de sus hojas, en los últimos años la superficie sembrada ha aumentado considerablemente en varios países como alternativa ante el consumo de sacarosa. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la concentración de esteviósido y rebaudiosido A en hojas de Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, var. Eirete y su rendimiento con la aplicación de diferentes dosis de nitrógeno. El ensayo se llevó a cabo durante cuatro meses, como sustrato se utilizó una mezcla de suelo-tezontle (60:40%) y como fuente de nitrógeno gallinaza y lombricomposta en tres dosis: 1, 2, y 4 g N planta-1. Los tratamientos se generaron de un factorial completo 3 × 2, en condiciones de invernadero en un diseño de bloques completamente al azar, con cuatro repeticiones. El riego se aplicó por goteo mediante un cálculo de evapotranspiración diaria y con los datos de temperaturas máximas y mínimas se calculó la temperatura media que se utilizó para calcular grados días desarrollo (GDD). Se realizaron 5 muestreos y se determinó: la concentración nutrimental, glucósidos, altura de la planta, brotes basales y rendimiento de hojas. De acuerdo a los resultados obtenidos el mayor rendimiento se presentó en el tratamiento donde se aplicó 4 g N planta-1 de lombricomposta, se obtuvieron 9 brotes y 19 g de hoja de stevia por planta con respecto al tratamiento con gallinaza en la misma dosis donde se presentaron 3 brotes y 12 g de hoja seca planta-1. La mayor concentración de esteviósido y rebaudiosido A se dio en los tratamientos con lombricomposta con 1 y 2 g N planta-1 (11.1 y 12.1%, respectivamente). En las propiedades físicas del sustrato se observó una disminución del agua fácilmente disponible del inicio al final en los tratamientos con gallinaza no así en los de lombricomposta. El modelo fenológico mostró que la energía requerida para realizar la cosecha en la aparición de las flores es de 604 grados días desarrollo (GDD), aunque la mayor concentración de glucósidos se dio a los 562 GDD, información que indica que la cosecha debe hacerse en esta etapa fenológica. La utilización de la lombricomposta favorece el crecimiento vegetativo de la stevia, de acuerdo a los datos obtenidos presenta mayor concentración de esteviósido y rebaudiosido A, y es una alternativa para la fertilización orgánica de la stevia.

RESUMO. Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a influência do ambiente de cultivo para a conservação in vitro de genótipos de citros oriundos do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura. O estudo utilizou ferramentas estatísticas multivariadas a fim de melhorar a eficiência na análise dos resultados. Microestacas de plântulas de dez genótipos previamente cultivadas in vitro, com aproximadamente 1 cm, foram inoculadas em tubos de ensaio com 20 mL do meio de cultura WPM suplementado com 25 g L-1 de sacarose, solidificado com 7 g L-1 de ágar e pH ajustado em 5,8, e mantidas em três ambientes de cultivo por 180 dias. O experimento foi instalado em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema de parcela subdividida no espaço, com 15 repetições. Os resultados indicam que a análise de componentes principais é uma ferramenta eficiente para estudar o comportamento de genótipos conservados em diferentes ambientes de cultivo in vitro. O ambiente de cultivo com 22±1ºC, intensidade luminosa de 10 μmol m-2 s-1 e 12h de fotoperíodo é o mais indicado para reduzir o crescimento das plantas conservadas in vitro, prolongando o tempo de subcultivo e mantendo as plantas sadias.

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the growing environment on the in vitro conservation of citrus genotypes obtained from the Active Citrus Germplasm Bank of Embrapa Cassava and Fruit. The study used multivariate statistic tools in order to improve the efficiency in the analysis of the results. Approximately 1-cm of length microcuttings from plantlets derived from ten genotypes previously cultured in vitro were inoculated in test tubes containing 20 mL of WPM culture medium supplemented with 25 g L-1 sucrose, solidified with 7 g L-1 agar and adjusted to a pH of 5.8, and maintained under three environmental conditions for 180 days. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design in a split-plot in the space, with 15 replications. The results indicate that the principal component analysis is an effective tool in studying the behavior of different genotypes conserved under different in vitro growing conditionsThe growing conditions of 22±1°C, a light intensity of 10 μmol m-2.s-1 and a 12 hours photoperiod was the most adequate for reducing the growth of in vitro conserved plants, increasing the subculture time interval while keeping the plants healthy.

ABSTRACT The Bambuí Group, formed from siliciclastic sediments deposited on an extensive epicontinental platform at the end of the Neoproterozoic era, is characterized by limestones with fine to very fine texture. Limestone-derived soils in the southeast of Tocantins state, Brazil, are less notorious than similar soils in other regions of Brazil and their characterization could contribute to the Brazilian System for Soil Classification (SiBCS). Given that little is known of these soils, despitetheir agricultural potential, the objective of this study was to characterize their properties and the processes leading to soil of genesis, and also contribute to developing the Brazilian System of Soil Classification (SiBCS). Soils profiles were located on the summit (P1), shoulder (P2), backslope (P3), and footslope (P4) of a toposequence in the municipality of Lavandeira, Tocantins. Morphological, physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties of the profiles were determined. The soils were classified as: P1 - Chernossolo Rêndzico Lítico típico (Lithic Haplustolls); P2 - Cambissolo Háplico Ta Eutrófico léptico hipocarbonático (Lithic Haplustolls); P3 - Cambissolo Háplico Carbonático léptico (Lithic Haplustepts); and P4 - Luvissolo Háplico Órtico típico (Typic Rhodustalfs). All the profiles showed high contents of silt, calcium, and magnesium, which resulted in high pH and low exchangeable aluminum content. Base saturation and calcium carbonate equivalent contents were also high, and the horizons showed dark colors due to high organic matter content, which contained humin as the dominant fraction. Mineralogical analysis of the clay fraction indicated predominance of hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite, followed by illite, kaolinite, and quartz, whereas the sand fraction exhibited reflections characteristic of the quartz mineral. Given P4 contents of calcium carbonate equivalent above 50 g kg-1 and the relevance of this feature for agriculture, we propose the inclusion of hypocarbonate as a criterion for classification of Luvissolos Háplicos Órticos at the subgroup level.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO:A deficiência na imunidade celular localizada parece contribuir para a patogênese e progressão das neoplasias intraepiteliais cervicais (NIC), no entanto, ainda não está totalmente esclarecido o mecanismo molecular fundamental nesse processo de progressão. A identificação de novos marcadores moleculares de prognóstico e diagnóstico das NIC em estágios precoces pode ajudar a diminuir a quantidade de casos de NIC. Várias novas moléculas com função imunorregulatória foram descobertas nos últimos anos, inclusive o antígeno leucocitário humano G (HLA-G), que, através de interação com os receptores, tem importantes funções tolerogênicas. Diversas linhas de evidência sugerem que as células T-ajudantes produtoras de interleucina-17 (IL-17, células Th17), podem desempenhar um papel na imunidade antitumoral. Porém, recentes relatos implicaram as células Th17 e suas citocinas tanto em processos pro- quanto anti-tumorigênicos. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o papel do HLA-G e Th17 na imunopatogênese das NIC I.TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL:Estudo transversal analítico com grupo controle em 58 espécimes cervicais dos arquivos de um hospital universitário público com assistência prestada no nível terciário.MÉTODOS:Avaliamos a expressão de HLA-G e IL-17 por imunoistoquímica no microambiente cervical, associando esses achados com as características clínico-patológicas.RESULTADOS:Houve tendência aumentada da expressão de HLA-G e IL-17 em espécimes que apresentaram NIC I, sugerindo que essas moléculas têm contribuição na progressão cervical.CONCLUSÃO:Estes resultados sugerem que a expressão do HLA-G e da IL-17 pode ser um marcador precoce para avaliar a progressão das lesões cervicais.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE:Impaired local cell immunity seems to contribute towards the pathogenesis and progression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), but the underlying molecular mechanisms promoting its progression remain unclear. Identification of new molecular markers for prognosis and diagnosis of early-stage CIN may aid in decreasing the numbers of CIN cases. Several novel immunoregulatory molecules have been discovered over the past few years, including the human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), which through interaction with its receptors exerts important tolerogenic functions. Several lines of evidence suggest that T-helper interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing cells (Th17 cells) may play a role in antitumor immunity. However, recent reports have implicated Th17 cells and their cytokines in both pro and anti-tumorigenic processes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the roles of HLA-G and Th17 in the immunopathogenesis of CIN I.DESIGN AND SETTING:Analytical cross-sectional study with a control group using 58 cervical specimens from the files of a public university hospital providing tertiary-level care.METHODS:We examined HLA-G and IL-17 expression in the cervical microenvironment by means of immunohistochemistry, and correlated these findings with clinical and pathological features.RESULTS:There was a greater tendency towards HLA-G and IL-17 expression in specimens that showed CIN I, thus suggesting that these molecules have a contribution towards cervical progression.CONCLUSION:These findings suggest that HLA-G and IL-17 expression may be an early marker for assessing the progression of cervical lesions.

Due to the low radiopacity of Sealer 26, iodoform is frequently empirically added to this sealer. Thus, the interference of this procedure with the physicochemical properties of Sealer 26 must be evaluated. Objective: This study evaluated the influence of the addition of iodoform on setting time, flow, solubility, pH, and calcium release of an epoxy-based sealer. Material and Methods: The control group was pure Sealer 26, and the experimental groups were Sealer 26 added with 1.1 g, 0.55 g or 0.275 g of iodoform. Setting time evaluation was performed in accordance with the ASTM C266-03 speciflcation. The analysis of flow and solubility was in accordance with the ISO 6876-2001 speciflcation. For the evaluation of pH and calcium ion release, polyethylene tubes were filled with the materials and immersed in flasks with 10 ml of deionized water. After 24 h, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 45 days pH was measured. In 45 days, the calcium released was evaluated with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: The addition of iodoform increased setting time in comparison with pure sealer (P<0.05). As for flow, solubility, and calcium release, the mixtures presented results similar to pure sealer (p>0.05). In the 24 h period, the mixture with 1.1 g and 0.55 g of iodoform showed lower pH than pure sealer and than sealer added with 0.275 g of iodoform (P<0.05). Conclusions: The iodoform added to Sealer 26 interferes with its setting time and solubility properties. Further studies are needed to address the clinical signiflcance of this interference.

O desempenho agronômico da berinjeleira foi avaliado em cultivo agroecológico, comparando-se espécies de gramínea e leguminosa perenes para cobertura viva do solo. O experimento foi conduzido no município de Seropédica-RJ, no delineamento de blocos casualizados, com parcelas subdivididas e três repetições. Foram avaliadas as coberturas vivas do solo com amendoim forrageiro (Arachis pintoi), grama batatais (Paspalum notatum) e preparo convencional do solo (controle). Nas subparcelas, foram empregadas doses crescentes de "cama" de aviário, correspondendo a 120, 240, 480 e 720 g planta-1, aplicadas parceladamente durante o ciclo da hortaliça. A viabilidade do uso do amendoim forrageiro como cobertura viva no cultivo da berinjeleira foi demonstrada pelo fato de que os valores obtidos nesse tratamento não diferiram daqueles do preparo convencional do solo para as variáveis avaliadas (produtividade, número e peso médio de frutos). A exceção relaciona-se ao uso do amendoim forrageiro associado à maior dose de adubação orgânica (720 g de "cama" de aviário/planta), que se mostrou superior quando comparado ao preparo convencional do solo. Os valores máximos foram obtidos com as doses de "cama" de aviário estimadas em 600 g planta-1 (60,63 t ha-1) e em 480 g planta-1 (55,80 t ha-1) para amendoim forrageiro e preparo convencional, respectivamente. Em contrapartida, com a grama batatais, mesmo a dose mais elevada de adubação orgânica não possibilitou alcançar máximo rendimento da cultura da berinjeleira, indicando assim competição imposta pela gramínea. Os resultados obtidos indicam viabilidade agronômica do cultivo agroecológico da berinjeleira, na cobertura viva permanente do solo com o amendoim forrageiro. O maior rendimento de berinjela associado à aplicação de "cama" de aviário foi obtido na dose de 600 g planta-1

Agronomic performance of eggplant was evaluated under organic management, comparing perennial grass and legume species as cover crops. The trial was carried out in Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, using a randomized block design with a split plot arrangement and three replications. The evaluated treatments in the plots were forage peanut (Arachis pintoi) as cover crop, Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) as cover crop, and conventional soil tillage (control). Split plot treatments were represented by increasing dosages of poultry litter, corresponding to 120, 240, 480, and 720 g plant-1, which were partitioned through the eggplant cycle. The viability of forage peanut used as living mulch for eggplants was evidenced by the fact that its results did not differ statistically from conventional soil tillage for yield, number of fruits per hectare and average fruit weight of eggplant. The only exception is related to the use of forage peanut associated to the greatest dosis of organic fertilizer (720 g plant-1), which has shown superior results when compared to conventional soil tillage. Maximum values were obtained with poultry litter dosage of 600 g plant-1 (60.63 t ha-1) and 480 g plant-1 (55.80 t ha-1) for forage peanut and soil tillage treatments, respectively. On the other hand, Bahia grass did not allow to reach maximum eggplant yield, even at the highest dosage of poultry litter, indicating competition imposed by the cover crop. The results indicate agronomic feasibility of eggplant grown under agroecological management, with forage peanut as soil cover crop. The highest yield of eggplant was obtained with the use of 600 g plant-1 of poultry litter.

Objetivou-se com o presente estudo descrever a morfologia de frutos, sementes e plântulas de araticunzeiro (Annona crassiflora Mart. - Annonaceae), uma espécie com alto potencial frutícola e grande valor ecológico. A caracterização das estruturas foi realizada a partir de 42 frutos e de 100 sementes, coletados no município de Santo Antônio do Leverger - MT, em 2011. Para descrever a morfologia da plântula, 100 sementes foram colocadas para germinar, em dois ambientes distintos. O araticunzeiro apresenta fruto composto, múltiplo estrobiliforme, globoso-subgloboso e carnoso, com médias de 12,9 cm de comprimento, 13,5 cm de largura, 12,7 cm de espessura, massa de 1.187,0 g e de 99,2 sementes por fruto. As sementes são obovoides com tegumento glabro, castanho-claro, opaco, liso e ósseo; possuem em média, 17,7 mm de comprimento, 10,8 mm de largura e 8,3 mm de espessura. A germinação é epígea e fanerocotiledonar e se inicia após 148 dias da semeadura. Os aspectos morfológicos do fruto, da semente e da plântula de araticunzeiro podem ser utilizados para o reconhecimento da família botânica e, se associados a outras características, para o reconhecimento da espécie no campo.

Araticum (Annona crassiflora Mart. - Annonaceae) is a species with great ecological importance and potential for fruit production. Its fruits, seeds and seedlings were morphologically described in this article as being the main objective of this study. To describe and illustrate the examples, 100 seeds and 42 fruits were analyzed; the latter being collected in Santo Antônio do Leverger - MT - Brazil, in 2011. To describe the morphology of the seedling, 100 seeds were germinated in two different environments. The araticum plant has a compound, multiple strobiliform, globose-subglobose and fleshy fruit, with average measures of 12.9 cm length, 13.5 cm width, 12.7 cm thickness, weight of 1,187.0 g and 99.2 seeds per fruit. The seeds are obovoid, hairless, smooth with a bony aspect and a pale brown color; they have an average of 17. 7 mm length, 10.8 mm width and 8.3 thickness. Epigeous and phanerocotylar germination begins about 148 days after sowing. All morphological data of araticum fruits, seeds and seedlings can be used to recognize the botanical family and, when associated to other features, to recognize the species in the field.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o consumo de nutrientes e o desempenho produtivo e econômico de ovinos confinados da raça Santa Inês, alimentados com dietas com diferentes taxas de inclusão de torta de macaúba. Os animais (24) foram distribuídos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, nos tratamentos com 0, 100, 200 e 300 g kg-1 de torta de macaúba na matéria seca da dieta, em seis repetições, durante 60 dias de confinamento. A adição de torta de macaúba a taxas crescentes à dieta aumentou linearmente o consumo de proteína bruta, extrato etéreo, fibra em detergente neutro e a conversão alimentar. Não houve diferença no consumo de matéria seca, ganho médio diário e ganho de peso vivo total com a adição da torta. O tratamento com inclusão de 100 g kg-1 apresentou a melhor relação custo:benefício na avaliação das receitas bruta e líquida obtidas com a venda dos animais vivos e abatidos. A adição da torta de macaúba em até 300 g kg-1 da dieta não altera o desempenho produtivo dos animais, entretanto, a inclusão de 100 g kg-1 proporciona melhor retorno econômico.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the nutrient uptake and the productive and economic performance of confined Santa Inês lambs fed diets with different levels of macauba pie inclusion . The animals (24) were distributed in a randomized block design, in treatments with 0, 100, 200 and 300 g kg-1 macauba pie in the diet dry matter, with six replicates during 60 days of confinement. The addition of macauba pie at increasing rates to the diet linearly increased the intake of crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber and feed conversion. There was no difference in dry matter intake, average daily gain and total live weight gain with the macauba pie addition. Diet with 100 g kg-1 macauba pie inclusion showed the best cost:benefit ratio in the evaluation of gross and net revenues from the sale of live and slaughtered animals. The addition of macauba pie up to 300 g kg-1 to the diet does not affect the animal growth performance; however, the addition of 100 g kg-1 macauba pie provides a better economic return.

OBJECTIVE: To mechanically evaluate different systems used for canine retraction. METHODS: Three different methods for partial canine retraction were evaluated: retraction with elastic chain directly attached to bracket; elastic chain connected to bracket hook and with sliding jig activated with the aid of an elastic chain attached to a mini-implant. For this evaluation, a Typodont was adapted to simulate the desired movements when exposed to a heat source. After obtaining the measurements of the movements, statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: The mini-implant/sliding jig system (Groups M 0.018-in and M 0.019 x 0.026-in) favored less extrusion and distal inclination of the canines in the retraction stage (p < 0.005). Meanwhile, the retraction system with elastic chain directly attached to the orthodontic brackets (Groups C 0.018-in and 0.019 x 0.026-in) favored greater inclination and extrusion than the others, followed by the system of elastic chain attached to the hook (Groups G 0.018-in and 0.019 x 0.026-in). CONCLUSIONS: Canine retraction with the mini-implant/sliding jig system showed the best mechanical control. The worst results were observed with a 0.018 archwire when the elastic chain was attached to the bracket.