Abstract The geographical distribution of sand flies in Brazil has been the subject of some studies, yet there is no information about the phlebotomine fauna in João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Brazil. The aim of this work is to evaluate the occurrence and distribution of sand flies in the Atlantic forest fragments and to evaluate a possible dispersion in 06 nearby districts. Light traps were used during three consecutive nights, supplemented by an aspirator during the dry period and rainy season. A total of 222 sand flies were found, 143 (130 males and 13 females) in the Atlantic forest, and 79 in urban areas. During the entire dry season, three species of phlebotomine sand flies were recorded in 11 forest fragments, Lutzomyia longipalpis, Lu. migonei and Lu. whitmani. During the rainy season, only Lu. longipalpis was found. This was the only species identified in the studied neighborhoods during both seasons. The differences in diversity of sand flies encountered between natural habitats and urban areas may thus be correlated mostly with adaptations to particular habitats and availability of food. One species (Lu. longipalpis) appears to be rapidly adapting to urban areas because of deforestation.

ABSTRACT Habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation are important anthropogenic drivers of changes in biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest, and has reached its highest rate in recent decades. However, the magnitude and direction of the effects on species composition and distribution have yet to be fully understood. We evaluated the responses of four taxonomic groups − birds, amphibians, orchid bees, and dung beetles - to habitat loss and fragmentation at both species and assemblage level in the northern Ecuadorian Amazon. We sampled fifteen 250-m long plots in terra-firme forest remnants. We calculated one landscape fragmentation index (fragindex), which considers the proportion of continuous forest cover, edge density and isolation in the landscape, and nine landscape configuration metrics. Logistic regression models and multivariate regression trees were used to analyze species and assemblage responses. Our results revealed that over 80% of birds, amphibians or orchid-bee species, and 60% of dung beetles were negatively affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. Species composition of all taxonomic groups was significantly affected by differences in forest cover and connectivity. Less than 5% of all species were restricted to landscapes with fragindex values higher than 40%. Landscape metrics related to the shape and area of forest patches determined the magnitude and direction of the effect on species responses. Therefore, changes in the landscape configuration of Ecuadorian Amazonia should be minimized to diminish the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on species occurrence and assemblage composition.

RESUMEN La pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat causada por la deforestación es un importante impulsor antropogénico de cambios sobre la biodiversidad en la selva amazónica. Sin embargo, la magnitud y dirección de los efectos sobre la composición y distribución de las especies aún es incomprendida. Evaluamos las respuestas de cuatro grupos taxonómicos - aves, anfibios, abejas de orquídeas y escarabajos peloteros - a la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat, tanto a nivel de especies como de ensamblaje, en la Amazonía norte ecuatoriana. Tomamos muestras de quince parcelas de 250 m de largo en remanentes de bosque de tierra firme. Calculamos un índice de fragmentación del paisaje (fragindex), que considera la cobertura forestal continua, densidad del borde y el aislamiento en el paisaje, y nueve métricas de configuración del paisaje para analizar las respuestas de especies y ensamblajes. Más del 80% de las especies de aves, anfibios o abejas de orquídeas y el 60% de los escarabajos peloteros se vieron afectados negativamente por la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat. La composición por especies se vio significativamente afectada por las diferencias en la cobertura forestal y la conectividad, mientras que la forma y el área de los parches de bosque determinaron la magnitud y la dirección del efecto en las respuestas de las especies. Por lo tanto, los cambios en la configuración del paisaje de la Amazonía ecuatoriana deben minimizarse para disminuir los efectos de la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat sobre la presencia de especies y la composición de los ensambles.

Objective: The objective of the study was to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics found in personnel screened during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Materials and methods: Nasal and oropharyngeal swab samples were collected in the period between May 11 and May 26, 2020, from 496 people. They were followed up by means of a questionnaire at 0, 7, and 14 days. Results: 449 people answered the surveys (73 excluded); age range: 21-63 years, mean of 39.4 years. About 77% had contact with patients with coronavirus infection, (32% had an exposure time of < 8 h a week, 24% 8-16 h a week and 20% more than 16 h a week). The most frequent comorbidity in the population was obesity (13.8%), followed by asthma (8%) and DM2 (1%). The most common symptom was headache (34%), followed by nasal obstruction (25%) and odynophagia in third place (22%); 16% presented alterations in the perception of odors. Among the surveyed personnel, 17 (4.5%) tested positive for SARS-COV2 by means of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Conclusions: In line with this pandemic, a screening protocol was started for asymptomatic health-care personnel for the recognition of infections caused by this virus to establish barriers that will prevent the spread and provide the basis for the standardization of this practice and the protection of health-care personnel.

ABSTRACT Technological advances for biogas generation have allowed to revalue the poultry litter as it is a source of biomass with a high energy content. In this work was realized the potential study of the Poultry Litter Industry of the Sancti Spiritus province as a feasible treatment of it wastes. Physical-chemical characterization, biogas potential determination and the electrical and thermal power form poultry litter was carried out. The volatile solids were within the range reported by the literature for replacement and laying hen manure, being 44, 20 % and 43, 09 % and it was estimated that 8178m3 of biogas can be generated daily, which would represent a production between 6656 MWh of electrical energy and 9 641 MWh of thermal energy per year, which would largely support the energy of the demand of poultry farms.

RESUMEN Los avances de las tecnologías para la generación de biogás han permitido revalorizar a la gallinaza por su alto contenido energético. En este trabajo se realizó el estudio del potencial energético de la Empresa Avícola de la provincia Sancti Spíritus, como una alternativa factible para el tratamiento de sus residuales. Se realizó la caracterización físico-química de la gallinaza y la determinación del potencial de biogás y la potencia eléctrica y térmica que se puede generar a partir de la misma. Los sólidos volátiles estuvieron dentro del rango reportado por la literatura para la gallinaza de reemplazo y ponedora, siendo de 44,20 % y 43,09 % respectivamente. Se estimó que se pueden generar diariamente 8 178 m3 de biogás, que representarían una producción entre 6 656 MWh de energía eléctrica y 9 641 MWh de energía térmica al año, lo que puede sustentar en gran medida la demanda energética de las granjas avícolas.

RESUMO: A dermatite atópica canina (DAC) é uma doença inflamatória crônica e pruriginosa recorrente e geneticamente predisposta, que se destaca como o segundo transtorno cutâneo alérgico mais frequente e ocupa o segundo lugar entre todas as causas de prurido em cães. Diante da ausência de dados da ocorrência de DAC na região Norte do Brasil, objetivou-se realizar um levantamento de dados para definir a prevalência de dermatite atópica canina atendida no Serviço de Dermatologia do Hospital Veterinário Mário Dias Teixeira da Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (HOVET-UFRA). Foi realizado um levantamento retrospectivo através dos registros clínicos e dos resultados de exames dermatológicos com base nos atendimentos dermatológicos no setor de Dermatologia do HOVET-UFRA Belém/Pará, de outubro de 2018 a outubro de 2019 para determinar a prevalência de DAC. Nesse período, foram atendidos 456 cães e destes, 25,65% (117) foram diagnosticados com dermatite atópica. Dentre os animais diagnosticados, 62,4% (73) eram fêmeas e 51,7% (29) eram da raça Shih-tzu. Neste estudo houve uma alta prevalência de cães com Dermatite atópica. Ainda não existem dados exatos sobre a incidência e a prevalência desta dermatopatia, com ocorrência descrita variando de 3 a 15% da população canina, podendo ter relação geográfica. Embora a predisposição sexual não tenha sido comprovada, descreve-se maior incidência de atopia em fêmeas, concordando com esta pesquisa. Os cães mais acometidos neste estudo foram da raça Shih-tzu. Suspeita-se que a popularidade regional de algumas raças ou os diferentes antecedentes genéticos em diferentes áreas geográficas afetam a predominância de algumas raças. Estes resultados mostraram que a prevalência de DAC em cães é a mais frequentemente diagnosticada no setor de Dermatologia do HOVET-UFRA, sendo mais prevalente em fêmeas e na raça Shih-tzu, podendo refletir um aspecto regional desta dermatopatia. Os resultados do presente estudo contribuíram para demonstrar a importância de mais pesquisas sobre a prevalência da Dermatite atópica canina e melhor caracterizar a população de cães atópicos na região, para que seja possível obter um perfil epidemiológico confiável.

ABSTRACT: Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a pruritic, chronic inflammatory disease, recurrent and genetically predisposed, which is the second most frequent allergic skin disorder, and ranks second among all the causes of pruritus in dogs worldwide. Given the absence of data on the occurrence of CAD in the northern region of Brazil, the aim of the current study was to conduct a survey to define the prevalence of canine atopic dermatitis attended at the Dermatology Department of the Mário Dias Teixeira Veterinary Hospital of the “Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia” (HOVET-UFRA). To determine the prevalence of CAD, a retrospective survey was carried out of clinical records and results of dermatological examinations conducted at the Dermatology Department of HOVET-UFRA Belém, Pará from October 2018 to October 2019. During this period, 456 dogs were examined, of which 25.65% (117) were diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. Among the animals diagnosed, 62.4% (73) were females and 51.7% (29) were of the Shih-tzu breed. This level of atopic dermatitis is considered high. There are still no exact data on the incidence and prevalence of this dermatopathy, with described occurrence ranging from 3 to 15% of the canine population, a geographical relationship may be present. Although a sex-related predisposition has not been proven, a higher incidence of atopy in females is described, which indicated this may be the case. The most commonly diagnosed dogs in this study were the Shih-tzu breed. It is suspected that the regional popularity of some breeds, or the different genetic backgrounds in different geographical areas, may affect the predominance of CAD in some breeds. The results of the present study demonstrate the need for more research on the prevalence of canine atopic dermatitis, and better means of characterizing the population of atopic dogs in the region, so that it is possible to obtain a reliable epidemiological profile.

Abstract Schizophrenia is a complex illness that currently has no cure. There are, however, numerous therapies that, alone or in combination, are effective in treating the symptoms of the disease and keeping it under control. The choice of treatment must always be individualized, and based on the clinical presentation of the disease, the general condition of the patient and the efficacy of the drug, although the cost and access to services and to the drug must also be considered, as in Mexico it has some limitations. A panel of 12 Mexican experts met virtually to review the latest published data and establish evidence-based treatment recommendations in Mexico that guarantee comprehensive, homogeneous, efficient, and quality medical care.

Resumen La esquizofrenia es una enfermedad compleja que actualmente no tiene cura. Existen, sin embargo, numerosas terapias que, solas o en combinación, son eficaces para tratar los síntomas de la enfermedad y mantenerla bajo control. La elección del tratamiento debe ser siempre individualizada, y basarse en la presentación clínica de la enfermedad, el estado general del paciente y la eficacia del fármaco, si bien hay que considerar también el costo y el acceso a servicios y al fármaco, que en México tiene algunas limitaciones. Un panel de 12 expertos mexicanos se reunió de forma virtual para revisar los últimos datos publicados y establecer unas recomendaciones de tratamiento en México, basadas en la evidencia, que garanticen una atención médica integral, homogénea, eficiente y con calidad.

Abstract: Smoking pipes are one of the cultural expressions of Early Ceramic Period groups that inhabited the northern semiarid region (NSA) of Chile between Salado and Choapa rivers basins (26º-31, 5ºS). We have explored the smoking complex in this region in search of the type of connections we previously found for the Chilean central region in La Granja archeological context of the Cachapoal basin (Planella, Belmar, Quiroz, Falabella, Alfaro, Echeverría y Niemeyer, 2016). Specialized analysis, i.e ceramic and lithic, archaeobotanical (microfossils) and chemical (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) of smoking pipes fragments from three northern semiarid areas (Copiapó, Huasco-Elqui, Limarí and Choapa), has shown that the major part of them correspond to the “Inverted T” pipes type, and have evidenced the presence of Pooideae phytoliths, Nicotiana spp., Zea mays L. and Solanaceae starch grains, as well as chemical compound where the fatty acids methyl esters highlighted (palmitic and stearic) and long chain alcohols. The morphology and contents of pipes, also seen in those from central Chile, confirms the existence of a shared cultural background between these regions, albeit in multiple contexts. Finally, it is concluded that this contextual diversity is evocative of the ritual centrality in the re-conceptualization of smoking complex in NSA.

Resumen: En el Norte Semiárido de Chile (NSA), entre las cuencas de los ríos Salado y Choapa (26º-31,5ºS) se destacan las pipas entre las expresiones culturales de los grupos del período Alfarero Temprano. Se exploró la idea de los complejos fumatorios en la región y se buscó encontrarle puntos de aprehensión, al igual que lo previamente intentado en la región central de Chile con los antecedentes del sitio La Granja, valle del río Cachapoal (Planella, Belmar, Quiroz, Falabella, Alfaro, Echeverría y Niemeyer, 2016). Los análisis cerámicos, líticos, arqueobotánicos (microfósiles) y químicos (cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas), sobre un universo de fragmentos de pipas de cuatro áreas del NSA (Copiapó, Huasco-Elqui, Limarí y Choapa), arrojaron que estos correspondían mayoritariamente al tipo T invertida y evidenciaron la presencia de silicofitolitos de Pooideae, granos de almidón de Nicotiana spp., Zea mays L. y Solanaceae, así como de ácidos grasos (palmítico, esteárico) y alcoholes de cadena larga. La morfología y contenido de las pipas, comunes a la región central, corroboran un trasfondo cultural compartido, aunque esta tradición se haya dado en contextos diversos. Una diversidad contextual que evoca la centralidad de la ritualidad en la reconceptualización de los complejos fumatorios del NSA.

Abstract Objective : To evaluate the effect of calcareous amendments on the productivity and quality of Medicago sativa (L.) cv. Moapa 69 in the high tropic of the Nariño department, Colombia. Materials and Methods : The study was conducted in the Pasto and Sapuyes localities. A complete randomized block design was used, with split-plot arrangement. Twelve treatments were established, resulting from the interaction of three amendment sources (dolomitic limestone, agricultural limestone and agricultural gypsum) and four doses (D1-control without application of limestone, D2-according to soil analysis, D3-½ D2 and D4-1 t. ha-1), with three replicas. The variables were plant height, green forage, dry matter, protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, calcium and phosphorus. The program R V 3.6.2 was used for the statistical analysis. Variance analysis was applied. Results : In the rainy season, in the Pasto locality, T4 was the most outstanding in neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, with values of 41,0 and 25,5 %, respectively. In Sapuyes, T4 stood out for its protein content (30,9 %). During the dry season, in Pasto, the variables did not show statistical differences. In Sapuyes, T3 was the best regarding acid detergent fiber (29,3 %), T8 stood out in height (2,57 cm) and T12 in green forage (5,52 t ha-1) and dry matter (0,97 t ha-1). Conclusions : The practice of limestone application positively influenced the establishment and adequate development of M. sativa. The performance of alfalfa varied in correspondence with the water availability. In the rainy season, the DM yields remained constant. Meanwhile, in the dry season, dolomitic limestone, with 1 t.ha-1, had the best yields.

Resumen Objetivo : Evaluar el efecto de enmiendas calcáreas en la productividad y la calidad de Medicago sativa (L.) cv. Moapa 69 en el trópico alto del departamento de Nariño, Colombia. Materiales y Métodos : El estudio se desarrolló en las localidades de Pasto y Sapuyes. Se utilizó un diseño experimental en bloques completamente aletorizados, con arreglo en parcelas divididas. Se establecieron 12 tratamientos, resultantes de la interacción de tres fuentes de enmienda (cal dolomita, cal agrícola y yeso agrícola) y cuatro dosis (D1-testigo sin aplicación de cal, D2-según análisis de suelo, D3-½ D2 y D4-1 t. ha-1), con tres réplicas. Las variables fueron altura de la planta, el rendimiento de forraje verde y de materia seca, la proteína, la fibra detergente neutro, la fibra detergente ácido, el calcio y el fósforo. Se utilizó el análisis de varianza para el procesamiento de los datos mediante el programa R V 3.6.2. Resultados : En la época de altas precipitaciones, en la localidad de Pasto, T4 fue el más sobresaliente en fibra detergente neutro y fibra detergente ácido, con valores de 41,0 y 25,5 %, respectivamente. En Sapuyes, T4 se destacó por su contendido de proteína (30,9 %). Durante las bajas precipitaciones, en Pasto, las variables no presentaron diferencias estadísticas. En Sapuyes, T3 fue el mejor en cuanto a la fibra detergente ácido (29,3 %) mientras que, T8 se destacó en altura (2,57 cm) y T12 en el rendimiento de forraje verde (5,52 t ha-1) y de materia seca (0,97 t ha-1). Conclusiones : En el establecimiento y desarrollo de M. sativa influyó positivamente la práctica de encalado. El comportamiento de la M. sativa varió en correspondencia con la disponibilidad hídrica. En la época de altas precipitaciones, los rendimiento de materia seca se mantuvieron constantes. Mientras, en la de bajas precipitaciones, la cal dolomta, tuvo los mejores resultados.

Abstract: This case study explores the progressive development of social housing projects in the city of Palmira (Colombia) between 2000 and 2017. Here particular attention is paid to aesthetic parameters through three main concepts: perception, form and function. The methodological approach brought together four qualitative tools for data gathering and analysis: document review, field observations (field diaries, notes and photographic record); interviews (with users representatives of constructors and public servants), and; the development of urban profiles. The findings suggest that social housing units constitute an unfinished project, that, shaped by the subjectivity of their inhabitants’, generates conflict with public spaces. Despite their diversity, the interventions follow identifiable patterns, commonly linked to inadequacies in the original designs.

Resumen: Este estudio de caso explora los desarrollos progresivos de la vivienda de interés social (VIS) en la ciudad de Palmira (Colombia) entre los años 2000 y 2017, prestando particular atención a su dimensión estética, a partir de tres ejes fundamentales: percepción, forma y función. La aproximación metodológica agrupó cuatro herramientas cualitativas de recolección y análisis de datos: revisión documental, observación in situ (diarios de campo, levantamientos y registro fotográfico), entrevistas (a usuarios, representantes de constructoras y servidores públicos) y desarrollo de perfiles urbanos. Los hallazgos sugieren que la VIS constituye un proyecto inacabado, que, determinado por la subjetividad de los habitantes, genera relaciones conflictivas con el espacio público. Pesa a su diversidad, las intervenciones siguen patrones asociados a la solución de carencias en los diseños originales.

ABSTRACT Objective Design and implement an interactive web-based dashboard to track COVID-19 in Colombia Methods A tool was designed and implemented to analyze the data of Covid-19 positive cases in Colombia and published by the Instituto Nacional de Salud. The tool is based on the implementation of business intelligence methods with which you can understand the behavior of the pandemic in Colombia and generate structured data for decision-making by government levels. The tool displays, on a single screen, information on the number of cases, patient status, age ranges, city, location department, and gender. This information can be dynamically filtered and focus analyzes on the national, departmental, or municipal order. Additionally, methods are implemented for trend analysis, both on a linear and semi-log scale, as well as for calculating the case fatality rate in each of the municipalities. Results A web-based data analysis dashboard is implemented for semi-continuous monitoring of the COVID-19 pandemic in Colombia. With the use of the tool, a situational analysis is carried out for five of the most important cities in Colombia. Conclusions The application is effective, flexible, and easy to use. The situational analysis reflects that public policies for the control of the disease have been favorable for Medellín, but for Cartagena, Bogotá, Barranquilla, and Cali, complementary measures are required.

RESUMEN Objetivo Diseñar e implementar una herramienta dinámica web para el seguimiento de la COVID-19 en Colombia. Métodos Se diseña e implementa una herramienta para el análisis de los datos de los casos positivos de COVID-19 en Colombia y publicados por el Instituto Nacional de Salud. La herramienta se basa en la implementación de métodos de inteligencia empresarial con los que se pueda entender el comportamiento de la pandemia en Colombia y generar datos estructurados para la toma de decisiones por parte de los estamentos gubernamentales. La herramienta despliega, en una sola pantalla, información sobre número de casos, estado de los pacientes, rangos de edad, ciudad y departamento de ubicación y género. Esta información puede ser filtrada de forma dinámica y enfocar los análisis en el orden nacional, departamental o municipal. Adicionalmente, se implementan métodos para el análisis de tendencia, tanto en escala lineal como en escala semilogarítmica, así como para el cálculo de la tasa de letalidad en cada uno de los municipios. Resultados Se implementó una herramienta de análisis de datos basado en la web para el seguimiento semicontinuo de la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Colombia. A partir de la herramienta se realiza un análisis situacional para cinco de las ciudades más importantes de Colombia. Conclusiones El aplicativo es eficaz, flexible y de fácil manejo. El análisis situacional refleja que las políticas públicas para el control de la enfermedad han sido efectivas para Medellín, pero, para Cartagena, Bogotá, Barranquilla y Cali, se requieren medidas complementarias.

RESUMEN Objetivo Diseñar e implementar una herramienta dinámica web para el seguimiento de la COVID-19 en Colombia. Métodos Se diseña e implementa una herramienta para el análisis de los datos de los casos positivos de COVID-19 en Colombia y publicados por el Instituto Nacional de Salud. La herramienta se basa en la implementación de métodos de inteligencia empresarial con los que se pueda entender el comportamiento de la pandemia en Colombia y generar datos estructurados para la toma de decisiones por parte de los estamentos gubernamentales. La herramienta despliega, en una sola pantalla, información sobre número de casos, estado de los pacientes, rangos de edad, ciudad y departamento de ubicación y género. Esta información puede ser filtrada de forma dinámica y enfocar los análisis en el orden nacional, departamental o municipal. Adicionalmente, se implementan métodos para el análisis de tendencia, tanto en escala lineal como en escala semilogarítmica, así como para el cálculo de la tasa de letalidad en cada uno de los municipios. Resultados Se implementó una herramienta de análisis de datos basado en la web para el seguimiento semicontinuo de la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Colombia. A partir de la herramienta se realiza un análisis situacional para cinco de las ciudades más importantes de Colombia. Conclusiones El aplicativo es eficaz, flexible y de fácil manejo. El análisis situacional refleja que las políticas públicas para el control de la enfermedad han sido efectivas para Medellín, pero, para Cartagena, Bogotá, Barranquilla y Cali, se requieren medidas complementarias.

ABSTRACT Objective Design and implement an interactive web-based dashboard to track COVID-19 in Colombia Methods A tool was designed and implemented to analyze the data of Covid-19 positive cases in Colombia and published by the Instituto Nacional de Salud. The tool is based on the implementation of business intelligence methods with which you can understand the behavior of the pandemic in Colombia and generate structured data for decision-making by government levels. The tool displays, on a single screen, information on the number of cases, patient status, age ranges, city, location department, and gender. This information can be dynamically filtered and focus analyzes on the national, departmental, or municipal order. Additionally, methods are implemented for trend analysis, both on a linear and semi-log scale, as well as for calculating the case fatality rate in each of the municipalities. Results A web-based data analysis dashboard is implemented for semi-continuous monitoring of the COVID-19 pandemic in Colombia. With the use of the tool, a situational analysis is carried out for five of the most important cities in Colombia. Conclusions The application is effective, flexible, and easy to use. The situational analysis reflects that public policies for the control of the disease have been favorable for Medellín, but for Cartagena, Bogotá, Barranquilla, and Cali, complementary measures are required.

Carbon-supported platinum-iridium nanowire-shape electrocatalysts containing 20% of metallic loading were synthesized by chemical reduction method using formic acid as a reducing agent and tested towards the oxidation of ethanol in acidic medium. The developed electrocatalysts were synthesized with the following compositions: Pt0.9Ir0.1/C, Pt0.8Ir0.2/C, Pt0.7Ir0.3/C, Pt0.6Ir0.4/C and Pt0.5Ir0.5/C using for comparison the commercial Pt/C Alfa Aesar catalyst. Physico-chemical characterization was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF, for chemical composition) techniques. All the nanowires present a face-centered cubic crystalline structure of the platinum with modifications in the lattice parameter due to the inclusion of iridium. The XRF analyzes show that the theoretical compositions of the synthesized catalysts are very close to the experimental nominal values. TEM analyses showed the formation of nanowires by the synthesis method used. The electrochemical results on the oxidation of ethanol show that the addition of a second metal to the platinum in the composition of the nanowires increases the catalytic activity of the electrode. The nanowire catalysts with low Ir content (Pt0.9Ir0.1/C, Pt0.8Ir0.2/C, Pt0.7Ir0.3/C) present the best outcomes under the analyzed conditions and are promising for application as anodes in direct ethanol fuel cells.

ABSTRACT Fe (iron) is one of the micronutrients required by the human body. When Fe is directly added to the food, it can cause sensory changes in flavor and color, causing rejection by consumers. The use of techniques such as coacervation and electrostatics (electrostatic coacervation) to micro encapsulate Fe can be a solution for Fe inclusion in food. The aim of the present work was to microencapsulate Fe in sodium alginate by electrostatic coacervation using calcium chloride as crosslinker material. In a suspension of 1.5 % sodium alginate, FeSO4 was added at 16 %, 33 % and 50 %. The viscosity of alginate and FeSO4 suspensions was determined. Results showed a linear increase in viscosity in relation with the FeSO4 content. The microcapsules were obtained by dripping on a 5.5 % CaCl2 crosslinker solution using a syringe pump, at an electric potential of 6, 7 and 8 KV and distance of 10 cm from the syringe with the crosslinker solution. The greater the electric potential, the smaller the diameter of the capsules, due to the electrostatic attraction forces. Once the sodium alginate/Fe microcapsules were obtained, the capsules size, encapsulation efficiency and Fe release kinetics were determined. The results showed that the highest encapsulation efficiency was 66.94 ± 1.11 % using 16 % FeSO4 at 8 KV. According to SEM micrographies , microcapsules size was 500 ± 100 μm with a spherical and smooth shape. At pH 7, 82.39 ± 0.72 % of Fe were released at 240 min, these values of time and pH could indicate that Fe release would be in the small intestine. The results showed that the technique of electrostatic coacervation has potential to obtain sodium/Fe alginate microcapsules, having application as an additive in food (fortification).

RESUMEN El Fe es uno de los micronutrientes que el cuerpo necesita. Cuando el Fe es adicionado en forma directa en los alimentos puede ocasionar cambios sensoriales, ocasionando rechazo por el consumidor. El uso de técnicas como la coacervación y la electroestática para obtener microcápsulas pueden ser una solución para la incorporación de Fe en alimentos. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue micro encapsular Fe en alginato de sodio por medio de coacervación electroestática usando como material reticulante el cloruro de calcio. En una suspensión de alginato de sodio al 1.5 %, se adicionó FeSO4 al 16 %, 33 % y 50 %. Se determinó la viscosidad de las suspensiones de alginato y FeSO4. Los resultados mostraron un aumento lineal en viscosidad respecto con el contenido de FeSO4. Las microcápsulas fueron obtenidas por goteo sobre una solución reticulante de CaCl2 al 5.5 % utilizando una bomba de jeringa, a un potencial eléctrico de 6, 7 y 8 KV y una distancia de 10 cm de la jeringa con la solución reticulante. A mayor potencial eléctrico menor diámetro de cápsulas debido a las fuerzas de atracción electrostática. Una vez obtenidas las microcápsulas de alginato de sodio/Fe se determinó: tamaño de las cápsulas, eficiencia de encapsulamiento y cinética de liberación del Fe. Los resultados mostraron que la mayor eficiencia de encapsulamiento fue de 66.94 ± 1.11 % usando 16 % de FeSO4 y 8 KV de alto voltaje. De acuerdo a las micrografías de SEM, el tamaño de las microcápsulas fue de 500 ± 100 µm con una forma esférica y no rugosa. A pH de 7 se obtuvo un 82.39 ± 0.72 % de liberación de Fe a los 240 minutos; Estos valores de tiempo y pH podrían indicar que la liberación de Fe seria en el intestino delgado. Los resultados muestran que la técnica de coacervación electrostática tiene potencial para obtener microcápsulas de alginato de sodio/Fe teniendo aplicación como aditivo en alimentos (fortificación).

Abstract In the state of Veracruz, the control of whitefly with synthetic insecticides in vegetables has caused contamination problems. The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the efficiency of biorational products for whitefly control in tomato cultivation under greenhouse conditions, and in chili and squash under open sky conditions. In tomato, treatments were Nim oil 4% IA, Nim oil + Metarhizium anisopliae 1x107 mL-1, Nim oil + Beauveria bassiana 1x107 mL-1, Nim oil + Isaria javanica 1x107 mL-1 and Blank (control). In chili and squash, treatments were Metarhizium anisopliae 1x107 mL-1, Isaria fumosorosea 1x107 mL-1, Beauveria bassiana 1x107 mL-1 and Blank (control). The Nim oil + M. anisopliae and Nim oil + I. javanica treatments were the most efficient in tomato and the B. bassiana and M. anisopliae based insecticides in chili and zucchini, respectively. There is a potential for the use of entomopathogenic fungi for whitefly control in tomato under greenhouse conditions, and chili and squash under open sky conditions, a potential applicable to high technology and traditional production conditions.

Resumen En el estado de Veracruz, el control de mosca blanca con insecticidas sintéticos en las hortalizas ha provocado problemas de contaminación. El objetivo de la presente investigación consistió en evaluar la eficiencia de productos biorracionales en el control de mosca blanca en el cultivo de jitomate en condiciones de invernadero y en los cultivos de chile y calabacita en condiciones de cielo abierto. Para jitomate los tratamientos fueron Nim aceite 4% IA, Nim aceite + Metarhizium anisopliae 1x107 mL-1, Nim aceite + Beauveria bassiana 1x107 mL-1, Nim aceite + Isaria javanica 1x 107 mL-1 y un testigo (sin aplicación), y para chile y calabacita Metarhizium anisopliae 1x107 mL-1, Isaria fumosorosea 1x107 mL-1, Beauveria bassiana 1x107 mL-1 y un testigo (sin aplicación). Los tratamientos de Nim aceite + M. anisopliae y Nim aceite + I. javanica fueron los más eficientes en jitomate y los insecticidas a base de B. bassiana y M. anisopliae en chile y calabacita, respectivamente. Existe un potencial para el uso de hongos entomopatógenos para control de mosca blanca en los cultivos de jitomate en invernadero, chile y calabacitas a cielo abierto, potencial aplicable a condiciones de alta tecnología y de producción tradicional.

RESUMO O objetivo desse trabalho foi investigar o raio e comportamento de voo no forrageamento da abelha Plebeia aff. flavocincta, e testar a sua atração para diferentes concentrações de xarope de açúcar em diferentes distâncias da colônia. O padrão de forrageio ao longo do dia, a preferência das abelhas pela concentração em açúcar do néctar e sua relação com a distância da colônia foram investigados por meio de manipulações desses parâmetros com flores artificiais contendo diferentes concentrações de xarope e colocadas a distâncias variadas das colmeias. As abelhas P. aff. flavocincta forragearam das 6 h às 17 h 30, com pico de forrageio das 9 h às 11 h 30 e apresentaram preferência por maiores concentrações de xarope (60% e 70%), embora tenham forrageado indiscriminadamente em todas as concentrações e distâncias variáveis. Conclui-se que devido ao seu porte reduzido, essa espécie necessita de temperaturas mais altas que espécies de porte maior para forragear plenamente e apresenta preferência por fontes mais concentradas de açúcar, no entanto não abre mão de explorar outras fontes com menores concentrações existentes dentro do seu raio de voo. Essa estratégia pode auxiliar a compreender como uma abelha de porte reduzido e raio de voo curto como P. aff. flavocincta consegue apresentar uma distribuição geográfica tão ampla e colonizar áreas altamente antropizadas onde fontes naturais de néctar são geralmente escassas a curtas distâncias.

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to investigate the flight range and foraging behavior of the stingless bee Plebeia aff. flavocincta, as well as testing its attraction to different sugar syrup concentrations within different distances to the colony. Foraging pattern along the day, preference of bees for sugar concentration in nectar and their relationship with distance from the colony were assessed by the means of manipulating those parameters with artificial flowers containing different sugar syrup concentrations and displayed at varying distances. The bees P. aff. flavocincta foraged from 6 a. m. to 5:30 p. m., with a foraging peak from 9 a. m. to 11:30 a. m. and showed preference for higher syrup concentrations (60% and 70%) though have foraged indiscriminately in all tested sugar concentrations and varying distances. We have concluded that due to its small body size, this species needs higher temperatures to forage when compared to large-body species, and shows preference for more concentrated sugar sources, but also explores the food source with lower sugar concentrations within their flight range. Such strategy may help to understand how a small-sized and short-flight bee such as P. aff. flavocincta achieved a vast geographic distribution in the country and is well succeeded in colonizing highly anthropized areas where natural sources of nectar are usually scarce within short distances.