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Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, Volume: 94 Suplemento 4, Publicado: 2022
  • Special volume on Biodiversity at the AABC Editorial Note

    KELLNER, ALEXANDER W.A.
  • Saliva as a potential surrogate for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the pediatric population and special care patients Letter To The Editor

    SANTANA, LUCAS A.M.; AMARAL, REGIANE C. DO; PAIVA, SAUL M.; SOUZA, LEANDRO N. DE; BORGES, LYSANDRO P.
  • Nanotechnology in dental implants of medically compromised patients: is this the right way forward? Letter To The Editor

    MATOS, GERALDO R.M.
  • Determination of neopterin in urine of industrial workers by HPLC Chemical Sciences

    YILMAZ, BILAL; YASAR, HALUK; ASCI, ALI; KADIOGLU, YUCEL

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract This study aimed to determine neopterin levels in the urine of industrial workers by the high-performance liquid chromatography method. Intra- and inter-day precision values for neopterin in urine were less than 3.14, and accuracy (relative error) was better than 3.00%. The limits of detection and quantification of neopterin were 0.3 and 1.0 ng/mL, respectively. Also, the developed method was applied to real samples to determine the neopterin levels in the urines of industrial workers, who have been exposed to various chemicals such as formaldehyde, heavy metals and thinners. Urine neopterin levels of industrial workers including auto painters, bodywork and furniture workers were statistically compared with healthy volunteers. The highest and lowest values of urinary neopterin for industrial workers were obtained 908.96 and 119.86 μmol/mol, respectively. Our investigation demonstrates that there is a meaningful difference in urinary neopterin levels between the workers and the control groups (P<0.05). Workers in the auto paint, body and furniture business may have been exposed to a toxic environmental exposure in their occupation. As a result, an increase in the concentration of neopterin in the urine may be important in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.
  • Oroxin A ameliorates the oleic acid-induced A549 cell injury through the suppression of pyroptosis and degradation of alveolar surfactant Biomedical Sciences

    HUANG, JIAN; CHEN, CHEN; XIE, JIANQIN; ZHAI, KERONG; WEI, SHILIN; CHENG, XINGDONG; ZHANG, RONGZHI

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The destruction of the pulmonary epithelial barrier in acute respiratory distress syndrome is caused by the damage of the alveolar epithelial cells. Oroxin A is an effective flavonoid component derived from the medicinal plant Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz. In this study, the oleic acid (OA)-induced A549 cell injury model was established in vitro to explore the protective mechanism of Oroxin A. The experiment was divided into the following groups: control, OA and OA + Oroxin A group. The OA-induced A549 cell injury was dose (time)-dependent and was detected by the CCK-8 assay. The protein and mRNA expression levels associated with pyroptosis are detected by Western blotting and RT-qPCR. After Oroxin A treatment, the levels of IL-1β, IL-18 and LDH released were significantly lower than the OA group. In terms of pyroptosis, Oroxin A can inhibit the expression of pyroptosis-related protein and mRNA. Significantly, the surfactant protein C (SPC) level in the OA + Oroxin A group was significantly higher than that in the OA group. The treatment with Oroxin A alleviates the OA-induced injury in the A549 cells, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of A549 cells pyroptosis and prevention of the degradation of the SPC.
  • Effects of diabetes between generations on the pre-embryos of rats Biomedical Sciences

    BARCO, VINÍCIUS S.; GALLEGO, FRANCIANE Q.; PAULA, VERÔNYCA G.; CRUZ, LARISSA L.; KARKI, BARSHANA; VOLPATO, GUSTAVO T.; DAMASCENO, DÉBORA C.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Pregestational hyperglycemia cause adverse effects on mothers and their offspring. We aimed to evaluate the maternal hyperglycemia influence on pre-embryos from diabetic rats and on their generations (daughters and granddaughters). Diabetes was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats. The mothers and their female pups were submitted to oral glucose tolerance test in adulthood. In day 4 of pregnancy, pre-embryos were collected for morphological analysis. The diabetic mother, daughter and granddaughter rats showed glucose intolerance and their pre-embryos presented developmental delay, degeneration and losses compared to the nondiabetic group. Thus, maternal diabetes transgenerationally affects embryos at early development, which contributes for embryofetal losses.
  • Milonine attenuates the lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice by modulating the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathways Health Sciences

    BERNARDO, LARISSA R.; FERREIRA, LAÉRCIA KARLA D.P.; FERREIRA, LARISSA A.M.P.; VIEIRA, COSMO ISAÍAS D.; OLIVEIRA, JOÃO BATISTA DE; LIMA, LOUISE M. DE; ALVES, ADRIANO FRANCISCO; ARAÚJO, RUBENS S.; MAIA, MAYARA S.; SCOTTI, MARCUS T.; BARBOSA FILHO, JOSÉ MARIA; PIUVEZAM, MARCIA REGINA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Acute lung injury is an inflammation that triggers acute respiratory distress syndrome with perialveolar neutrophil infiltration, alveolar-capillary barrier damage, and lung edema. Activation of the toll-like receptor 4 complex (TLR4/MD2) and its downstream signaling pathways are responsible for the cytokine storm and cause alveolar damage. Due to the complexity of this pulmonary inflammation, a defined pharmacotherapy has not been established. Thus, this study evaluated the anti-inflammatory potential of milonine, an alkaloid of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl, in an experimental model of lung inflammation. BALB/c mice were lipopolysaccharide-challenged and treated with milonine at 2.0 mg/kg. Twenty-four hours later, the bronchoalveolar fluid, peripheral blood, and lungs were collected for cellular and molecular analysis. The milonine treatment decreased the cell migration (mainly neutrophils) to the alveoli, the pulmonary edema, and the cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). The systemic IL-6 level was also reduced. The milonine docking analysis demonstrated hydrophobic interaction at TLR4/MD2 groove with Ile124 and Phe126 amino acids. Indeed, the alkaloid downregulated the kinase-Akt and NF-κB through TLR4/MD2. Therefore, milonine is an effective inflammatory modulator being a potential molecule for the treatment of lung inflammation.
  • Changes in athlete training patterns due to COVID-19 pandemic among Brazilian athletes Health Sciences

    MARTINS, FILIPE S.; FERNANDES, FRANCIELE DA S.; ALMEIDA, JOÃO L.G. DE; GUIMARÃES, JOHNATAS A.; M. NETO, MANOEL; PEREIRA, REABIAS DE A.; MUNIZ, MYGEIVE S.F.; ALMEIDA FILHO, EDER J.B.; SILVA, ALEXANDRE S.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract In sports, training needs to be done according to various training patterns to optimize performance. However, this has been a major challenge to athletes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore describing the impacts of lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on the athlete’s training routine is necessary. 52 Brazilian athletes (Age: 31.5±10.3 years; Body Mass Index: 23.9±3.5 kg/m²), Olympic and Paralympic sports practitioners (professional and recreational) answered an online questionnaire [frequency, duration and intensity (subjective perception of effort) of training sessions], before and during lockdown (July to November/2020). The weekly training frequency (sessions/week) reduced by 48.1% (n=25) and was significantly higher among those who performed more than eight sessions before the pandemic (75% of them, p<0.000). The duration of the sessions (hours/day) decreased by 55.8% (n=29) and was significantly higher in athletes who performed training lasting more than one hour/day [75.9% of them (n=22)] and 24.1% (n= 7) performed training for more than two hours/day (p=0.132). The subjective perception of effort significantly decreased by 56%, from 8.4±1.2 to 5.5±1.7 (p=0.001). Because of the lockdown, athletes have suffered a reduction in the frequency, volume and intensity of their training sessions, but only in those with higher pre-pandemic training loads.
  • In vitro and in silico assessment of cytotoxicity and chromosome instability induced by saxitoxin in human derived neural cell line Health Sciences

    CONSTANTE, JULIANY S.; KHATEEB, JULIANA E. AL; SOUZA, ANA PAULA DE; CONTER, FELIPE U.; LEHMANN, MAURÍCIO; YUNES, JOÃO S.; DIHL, RAFAEL R.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract In freshwater, saxitoxins (STX) are produced by different cyanobacteria genera, including Raphidiopsis. Data regarding cytogenotoxicity effects of STX on human cells are scarse, this merit further studies of its toxicology. This study assessed the cytotoxicity and the chromosome instability of STX on SHSY-5Y human cell line. The CBMN assay allows the detection of chromosome breaks and abnormal chromosomal segregation. Additionally, in silico systems biology approach, used to search for known and predicted interaction networks, was applied to study the interactions between STX and SHSY-5Y cellular components. The results of the CBMN assay demonstrated that STX concentrations of 2.5 – 10 µg/L induced cytostasis and chromosome instability in a dose-response relationship. Apoptosis was detected after exposure of SHSY-5Y cultured cells to STX concentration of 10 µg/L. The results of the systems biology analysis revealed the interaction of STX with proteins related with acetylcoline pathway, cell cycle regulation and apoptosis. Furthermore, combining the in vitro and in silico approachs, it was possible to suggest a mechanism of action of STX in SHSY-5Y cells. Overall, the data demonstrated the cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of environmentally relevant concentrations of STX. These results should be considered when setting up guidelines for monitoring STX in water supply.
  • Crosstalk between biological and chemical diversity with cytotoxic and cytostatic effects of Aphanothece halophytica in vitro Cellular And Molecular Biology

    SILVA, ISABEL V.G; SILVA, KARINA L.; MAIA, RAQUEL C.; DUARTE, HEITOR M.; COUTINHO, RICARDO; NEVES, MARIA HELENA C.B; SOARES, ANGELICA R.; LOPES, GISELLE P.F.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Different solvent extracts from Aphanothece halophytica (A. halophytica) were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects against four human cancer cell lines. The samples demonstrated different percentages of cyanobacteria species populations. The samples containing 100% A. halophytica and 90% A. halophytica showed a significant cytotoxic effect in human breast cancer cells MDA231. The cytostatic effect was demonstrated in MDA231 and human glioblastoma T98G cells regardless of the treatment, resulting in a significant cell cycle arrest in the S phase. The chemical profiles of the extracts were proven to be diverse in qualitative and quantitative compositions. This variability was dependent on the A. halophytica´s abundance in each extract. The 100% A. halophytica extract induced cytotoxic and cytostatic effects in breast cancer cells, and those could be associated with the predominance of fatty acids, hydrocarbons and phthalates, indicating that A. halophytica is an interesting source of novel compound with anticancer effect.
  • Effects of diet-induced hypercholesterolemia and gold nanoparticles treatment on peripheral tissues Cellular And Molecular Biology

    RODRIGUES, MATHEUS S.; MARTINS, JULIA N.; PAULA, GABRIELA C. DE; VENTURINI, LIGIA M.; SILVEIRA, GUSTAVO DE B.; STRECK, EMÍLIO L.; BUDNI, JOSIANI; ÁVILA, RICARDO A. MACHADO DE; BEM, ANDREZA F. DE; SILVEIRA, PAULO C.L.; OLIVEIRA, JADE DE

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Cholesterol is a lipid molecule of great biological importance to animal cells. Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism leads to raised blood total cholesterol levels, a clinical condition called hypercholesterolemia. Evidence has shown that hypercholesterolemia is associated with the development of liver and heart disease. One of the mechanisms underlying heart and liver alterations induced by hypercholesterolemia is oxidative stress. In this regard, in several experimental studies, gold nanoparticles (AuNP) displayed antioxidant properties. We hypothesized that hypercholesterolemia causes redox system imbalance in the liver and cardiac tissues, and AuNP treatment could ameliorate it. Young adult male Swiss mice fed a regular rodent diet or a high cholesterol diet for eight weeks and concomitantly treated with AuNP (2.5 μg/kg) or vehicle by oral gavage. Hypercholesterolemia increased the nitrite concentration and glutathione (GSH) levels and decreased the liver’s superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Also, hypercholesterolemia significantly enhanced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and GSH levels in cardiac tissue. Notably, AuNP promoted the redox system homeostasis, increasing the SOD activity in hepatic tissue and reducing ROS levels in cardiac tissue. Overall, our data showed that hypercholesterolemia triggered oxidative stress in mice’s liver and heart, which was partially prevented by AuNP treatment.
  • Detection of Waterborne and Airborne Microorganisms in a Rodent Facility Microbiology

    SILVA, LUIZ MARCIO DA; SANTIAGO, MARIANA B.; AGUIAR, PAULA AUGUSTA F. DE; RAMOS, SALVADOR B.; SILVA, MURILO V. DA; MARTINS, CARLOS HENRIQUE G.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the air and water contamination level and to identify the microbes isolated from a rodent facility located at the Federal University of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Colony forming units (CFU) per milliliter was used for monitoring water quantitatively; CFU per cubic meter was used for air monitoring. The isolated colonies were identified for qualitative monitoring. Due to absence of specific parameters for these facilities, the results were analyzed according to Brazilian and international standards, depending on which best suited each sample. The mean total number of microorganisms in water ranged from 0.015 ± 0.02 to 0.999 ± 0.91 CFU/mL. The number of microorganisms in air ranged from 9.1 ± 4.6 to 351.56 ± 158.2 CFU/m³. Forty-one microorganisms identified in the samples obtained from the rodent facility were potentially pathogenic or opportunistic for animals and humans (e.g., Corynebacterium spp.). We concluded that the water and air samples were contaminated with potentially pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms that can harm rodents and humans. On the basis of our observations, specific sanitary standards suitable for these facilities should be developed for controlling microbial contamination, which will prevent zoonosis and ensure the reliability of scientific results obtained from animal experiments.
  • Evolution of the spontaneous sourdoughs microbiota prepared with organic or conventional whole wheat flours from South Brazil Microbiology

    COSTA, LETÍCIA F.X.; KOTHE, CAROLINE ISABEL; GRASSOTTI, TIELA T.; GARSKE, RAQUEL P.; SANDOVAL, BEATRIZ N.; VARELA, ANA PAULA M.; PRICHULA, JANIRA; FRAZZON, JEVERSON; MANN, MICHELE B.; THYS, ROBERTA C.S.; FRAZZON, ANA PAULA G.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The purpose of this study was to compare the composition and stability of bacteria and fungi communities during the propagation of sourdoughs prepared with organic or conventional whole wheat (Triticum aestivum) flours from South Brazil. Sourdoughs were prepared and samples were collected during different fermentation times (0 to 216 h). Total DNA of sourdough samples were extracted and the 16S rRNA gene and Internal Transcribed Spacer region were sequenced by MiSeq-Illumina. A total of 43 and 56 OTUs were identified and defined as core taxa in the bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. The analysis revealed increases in the relative abundances of the lactic acid (Pediococcus pentosaceus, Weissella hellenica and Limosilactobacillus pontis) and acetic acid bacteria (Gluconobacter frateurii and Acetobacter tropicalis) during the sourdough propagation. The filaments fungi, Alternaria tenuissima, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium petersiae and Microdochium seminicola remained more stable in organic than conventional during propagation cycles. After 216 h of fermentation, both sourdoughs were dominated by acid- and salt-tolerant yeast Issatchenkia orientalis (syn Pichia kudriavzevii, and Candida glycerinogenes). In conclusion, there were no significant differences in microbial communities among the sourdough samples. This study revealed that both flours contain autochthonous LAB, AAB, and yeasts with biotechnological applications in sourdough bread-making.
  • In vitro selection and characterization of probiotic properties in eight lactobacillus strains isolated from cocoa fermentation Microbiology

    ALMEIDA, MILENA E. DE; PESSOA, WALLACE FELIPE B.; MELGAÇO, ANA CLARA C.; RAMOS, LOUISE P.; REZENDE, RACHEL P.; ROMANO, CARLA CRISTINA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Traditionally, probiotic microorganisms are isolated from human and animal intestinal microbiota. However, the demand for diversification of biofunctional products has driven the search for new sources of probiotic candidates, such as fermented foods and vegetables. The present study found that strains isolated from the fermentation of fine cocoa from southern Bahia have biotechnological potential for use as a probiotic, since they showed capacity for self-aggregation and co-aggregation, antimicrobial activity against intestinal pathogens and resistance to gastrointestinal transits. Scores of importance for each property were established in order to more accurately assess the probiotic potential of the strains. The tests carried out contemplate the criteria previously established for the selection of probiotic candidates.
  • Mercury concentrations in coastal Elasmobranchs (Hypanus guttatus and Rhizoprionodon porosus) and human exposure in Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil Ecosystems

    JULIO, TAINÁ G.; MOURA, VICTOR L.; LACERDA, LUIZ D.; LESSA, ROSÂNGELA P.T.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Elasmobranchs are long-lived predatory fish that show high Hg concentrations generally reflecting environmental levels, notwithstanding they are widely consumed in Brazil increasing Hg exposure to humans. This study reports on Hg concentrations in largely consumed sharks (Rhizoprionodon porosus) and rays (Hypanus guttatus) from the Pernambuco coast, NE Brazil and the risk associated with their consumption. Muscle tissue concentrations of Hg in H. guttatus and R. porosus varied from 40 to 1,020 ng.g-1 w.w. (median = 125; mean = 124 ± 48 ng.g-1 w.w.) in sharks and from 129 to 2,130 ng.g-1 w.w. (median = 976; mean = 919 ± 139 ng.g-1 w.w.) in rays. Concentrations of Hg positively correlated with size in sharks, but not in rays. Concentrations reflect the local environmental contamination of a large urban center and industrial park concentrated in a short extension of mangrove-dominated coastline (50 km) and are higher compared to other Brazilian sites where Hg concentrations in these species have been reported. Sharks had a risk coefficient (HQ) range of 0.04 to 1.1, not surpassing the reference level of exposure. On the other hand, rays’ HQ ranged from 0.14 to 2.3, and exceeds the reference level of exposure and suggests adverse effects to consumers.
  • The bivalves Amarilladesma mactroides and Donax hanleyanus as bioindicators of the impact of vehicles on Cassino Beach, southern Brazil Ecosystems

    BOM, FABIO C.; COLLING, LEONIR A.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Sandy beaches are the main recreational ecosystems of the world, enabling high ecological impacts, especially on the benthic macrofauna, which inhabit the sandy matrix and have a low capacity of locomotion. Cassino Beach, located in southern Brazil, has intense vehicle traffic during the summer, so the purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of vehicles on the key species Amarilladesma mactroides and Donax hanleyanus. For this purpose, samplings were performed in three sectors of this beach (High Impact, Moderate Impact and Control) during six periods of the year. The results showed lower densities of both bivalves in the High Impact sector than in to the other sectors in all periods, except in first summer sampling, and a predominance of recruits throughout the study. Thus, it suggests that the two species were influenced by the intense vehicle traffic, especially in the most impacted sector. In this way, we conclude that these bivalves could be used as good indicators of pulse disturbance by vehicle traffic on this beach and the results can support in management plans regarding the use of Cassino Beach, considering ecological aspects of this ecosystem in addition to economic and cultural demands.
  • Plasticity of growth rates and sizes at sexual maturity in different populations of the fiddler crab Minuca vocator (Herbst, 1804) within the same latitudinal range Ecosystems

    COLPO, KARINE D.; MULREEDY, CONSTANZA; NEGREIROS-FRANSOZO, MARIA LÚCIA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The growth rates and size at maturity of decapod crustaceans usually vary throughout latitudes. Here, we evaluated whether these life history traits can be stable within the same latitude range, where some environmental factors are constant, especially temperature. To this end, we estimated and compared the growth rates and size at sexual maturity of three populations of the fiddler crab Minuca vocator, located at latitude 23° S, in mangroves of the subtropical Brazilian coast. Variations in the growth rate of the abdominal width of females and of the propodus of the major cheliped of males were assessed by the allometric technique. The abdomen growth rates of females and the cheliped growth rates of males varied among the three populations, resulting in different sizes at maturity. These results do not support our prediction that growth rates and size at sexual maturity would remain stable in populations of the same latitude range. The differences in these life history traits could be a consequence of contrasting local conditions among mangroves. Therefore, we suggest that these crabs show plasticity and responsiveness to local-scale environmental variations, to optimize the energy allocation for maintenance, reproduction, and somatic growth.
  • Different environment, different reproductive strategies? Unexpected field observations in the harvestmen Discocyrtus prospicuus (Laniatores: Gonyleptidae) Ecosystems

    IGLESIAS, PATRICIA P.; PEREYRA, MARTÍN O.; STANLEY, ESTEFANÍA; TOSCANO-GADEA, CARLOS A.; PÉREZ-GONZÁLEZ, ABEL

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The evolution of reproductive strategies depends on the relative balance between current benefits and future costs. Geographic variation in demographic and ecological factors has the potential to affect reproductive strategies by altering this optimal cost-benefit balance. Here, we studied a population of the harvestmen Discocyrtus prospicuus inhabiting an environment never studied before in this context: a tidal freshwater wetland. We made monthly observations of male-female interactions and their association with egg clutches during a two-year field survey. Our results do not match the expected pattern for this species, consisting of males deserting females immediately after copulation, and females laying isolated eggs and abandoning them after oviposition. Conversely, we show for the first-time pairs D. prospicuus, formed by a female and a male, resting together before and after oviposition. Females of this wetland population lay the eggs in small clutches and some of the clutches had eggs in more than one stage of development. Also, we found many females alone over or near the egg clutch in the typical resting position. These findings markedly widen the behavioral specter previously reported for this species and set the stage for future research to determine the causes of these variations.
  • Exposure To Climate Risk: A Case Study For Coffee Farming In The Region Of Alta Mogiana, São Paulo Ecosystems

    TORRES, GUILHERME A.L.; ZEZZO, LARISSA V.; JOSÉ, RAFAEL V. DE SÃO; GRECO, ROBERTO; COLTRI, PRISCILA P.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Studies around the world show an increase in global average temperatures, with a consequent increase in extreme events and changes in the distribution of precipitation, causing a decrease in agricultural production and changes in planting areas. This study analyzed the exposure to climate risk that the coffee crop in the region of Alta Mogiana/SP, Brazil has been presenting in the past thirty years (1991-2021). Time series of daily data of maximum and minimum temperature and precipitation were used. By the statistical tests we observed a trend of increase in maximum temperatures daily of approximately 1.4°C and minimum daily of 0.8°C in the municipalities of the region and a trend towards a decrease in precipitation of 0.9 mm daily, indicating greater exposure of the coffee crop in the region to climate risk and increased vulnerability for the coffee producer. In view of these analyses, a literature review was carried out, suggesting agroforestry systems and mechanical irrigation as the most promising strategies to manage climate risk in coffee plantations. In addition, drought-resistant cultivars, training courses for farmers, increased rural insurance, and nutritional control of the plants can also be considered efficient options for climate exposure in coffee plantations from Alta Mogiana.
  • Population ecology of a critically endangered gecko, endemic to north-eastern of Argentina Ecosystems

    COURTIS, AZUL; CAJADE, RODRIGO; PIÑEIRO, JOSÉ MIGUEL; HERNANDO, ALEJANDRA; SANTORO, SIMONE; MARANGONI, FEDERICO

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Homonota taragui is an endemic gecko of the northeast of Argentina. We estimate demographic parameters: number of individuals by populations, sex and ontogenetic stage; sexual dimorphism; survival of this species; and describe the use of microhabitat and movement patterns. We measured 11 morphological variables, determined the sex and marked individually. We found bigger head width in males. Some factors contribute to the vulnerability of this species such as its constrained geographical distribution, use of the specific microhabitat and the isolation of their populations. We highlight demography studies as an essential data source for management and conservation of critically endangered species.
  • Phytosociological analysis of the mesophilic forest of the San Pedro volcano (Guatemala) Ecosystems

    GARCÍA-FUENTES, ANTONIO; PARDO-VILLEGAS, PEDRO D.; TORRES-CORDERO, JUAN ANTONIO; CORNIDE, JOAQUÍN GIMÉNEZ DE AZCÁRATE

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract From a standpoint of phytosociological research, little is known about the phytocoenosis found on the volcanoes of Central America. This paper analyses the distribution of the vegetation on the volcano of San Pedro in terms of its species-richness, composition, structure and abundance, and the possible relationships between these components and the changes in elevation and orientation that occur there. We divided the study area into three altitudinal belts between 2,400 and 3,020 m a.s.l. where carried out 36 inventories, each one in an area of 0.1 ha. We then applied multivariate analysis to classify and order the data in the matrix obtained from the frequency of the sampled plants. Our results lead us to propose two mixed cloud-forest associations within the class Alnetea acuminatae. The first, Saurauio oreophilae-Alnetum acuminatae ass. nova, is found on the more humid western side, while the second, Adianto andicolae-Quercetum peduncularis ass. nova, appears in sunnier and less shady sites, mainly on the east face. As part of this latter association, we also identified the new subassociation festucetosum amplissimae subass. nova. These syntaxa are part of the alliance Oreopanacion xalapensis all. nova, which we have created to embrace the mesophytic montane forests dominated by broad-leaved species.
  • Distribution patterns, endemism, richness and diversity of Convolvulaceae in the Espinhaço Range, Brazil Ecosystems

    ALVES, JOILSON V.; BURIL, MARIA TERESA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The Espinhaço Range is known for its unique plant diversity and richness of endemic species. We identified the distribution patterns, areas of endemism, floristic similarity, and the areas of richness and diversity of Convolvulaceae within the Espinhaço Range by analyzing a database of approximately 2600 occurrence records. One hundred and eighty-four taxa were categorized into one of four distribution patterns: continuous, disjunct, centered in the Bahia sector, and centered in the Minas Gerais sector. Nineteen Convolvulaceae species are endemic to Espinhaço Range. Endemic species had all of the different distribution patterns. Parsimony analysis of endemism indicated two main centers of endemism for the family: one in the Minas Gerais sector, on the Diamantina Plateau, and another in the Bahia sector, in the Chapada Diamantina. The floristic similarity, richness, and diversity analyses evidenced a principal group in each portion, mainly concentrated in the Chapada Diamantina, and secondarily in the Iron Quadrangle. Such studies are important both for understanding biodiversity and for decision-making in public conservation policies.
  • Disentangling vegetation structure effect on invertebrate communities in contrasting growth periods in subtropical protected wetlands of Argentina Ecosystems

    SABATER, LARA MILENA; FRANCESCHINI, MARÍA CELESTE; GALLARDO, LUCIANA IRENE; CORONEL, JUAN MANUEL; PÉREZ, ALEJANDRA PATRICIA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract This study assesses the effect of vegetation structure on the subtropical invertebrate communities in contrasting sampling dates of macrophyte populations in the RAMSAR site of Iberá wetlands, South America. Invertebrates associated with the submersed Egeria najas and the floating rooted Pontederia azurea were chosen to provide a model involving different microhabitat complexity. The results suggest that vegetation structure provided by the two macrophyte species supported significant differences in the density of animals, with invertebrate abundance of E. najas twice as high as on P. azurea. Abundance showed no significant differences in both contrasting sampling dates, growth and decline. Our result clearly showed invertebrates exclusively associated with each macrophyte species, as well different invertebrate taxa dominating in each sampling date (decline: Cladocera; growth: Aphididae, Belostomatidae and Planorbidae). We also show that working at the taxonomic levels of family could be a sensible trade-off between taxonomic identification effort versus reaching reliable and useful results for environmental monitoring and natural resource management in highly diverse subtropical wetlands. Our results emphasize the role of vegetation structure on invertebrate communities, as well suggest that the growth cycle of macrophyte populations could be a relevant variable influencing these animals in pristine subtropical wetlands.
  • Botanical sources and heavy metals contents of honey produced by Apis mellifera in an ecotone region of the state of Bahia, Brazil Ecosystems

    SILVEIRA-JÚNIOR, CRISTIANO EDUARDO A.; LOPES, BIANCA A.; SILVA, TÂNIA MARIA S.; GOMES, AYALA NARA P.; SILVA, GIRLIANE REGINA DA; ARRUDA, RAFAEL S. DE; MACIEL, EDSON A.; SANTOS, FRANCISCO A.R. DOS

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The present study investigated by palynological and chemical analysis (Flame Atomic Absortion Spectrometry) about the botanical origin and the heavy metals content (arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead and mercury) of monthly honey samples of Apis mellifera L. over two years. The pollen types Apiaceae, Mimosa caesalpiniifolia, M. tenuiflora and Myrcia indicated the main floristic sources used by bees. M. tenuiflora was the most frequent of the pollen types, and because it predominates in different months in each year, which may indicate more than one species of the genus being foraged by the beehive. The climatic influence (rainfall and temperature) on the pollen diversity was investigated and was not statistically supported. The chemical analysis showed that the heavy metal content of the samples were below their respective limits of quantification, and, therefore, the samples can be considered safe for human consumption.
  • Using Self-Organizing Maps to find spatial relationships between wildlife-vehicle crashes and land use classes Geosciences

    TSUDA, LARISSA S.; CARNEIRO, CLEYTON C.; QUINTANILHA, JOSÉ ALBERTO

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The construction and expansion of roads cause significant impacts on the environment. The main potential impacts to biotic environment are vegetation suppression, reduction of the amount and composition of animal distribution due to forest fragmentation and increasing risks of animal (domestic and wildlife) vehicle collisions. The objective of this work was to establish a relationship between the different spatial patterns in wildlife-vehicle crash, by using spatial analysis and machine learning tools. Self-Organizing Maps (SOM), an artificial neural network (ANN), was selected to reorganize the multi-dimensional data according to the similarity between them. The results of the spatial pattern analysis were important to perceive that the point data pattern varies from an animal type to another. The events occur spatially clustered and are not uniformly distributed along the highway. SOM was able to analyze the relationship between multiple variables, linear and non-linear, such as ecological data, and established distinct spatial patterns per each animal type. In the studied area, most of the wildlife was run over very close to forest area and water bodies, and not so close to sugarcane fields, forestry and built environment. A considerable part of the wildlife-vehicle collisions occurred in areas with diverse landscape.
  • Sea ice in the Weddell Sea and its relationship with the South Atlantic Subtropical High and precipitation in South America Geosciences

    CARPENEDO, CAMILA B.; AMBRIZZI, TÉRCIO; SILVA, RAFAEL CESAR

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract This study aims to evaluate the position and intensity of the South Atlantic Subtropical High (SASH), related to sea ice extent (SIE) retraction and expansion in the Weddell Sea, assessing precipitation in South America. We assess the difference between atmospheric fields related to SIE (four most intense retraction events minus four most intense expansion events) in February. To this end, we used NSIDC SIE, ERA-5 reanalysis, CHIRPS precipitation, ICOADS SST, ONI/SAM indexes (CPC/NOAA). In the following month, under neutral ENSO and SAM, we observed tropospheric warming in the Weddell Sea and cooling in the mid-latitudes South Atlantic. There is a weakening of both the Weddell Sea circumpolar low and the high pressures between tropical and subtropical latitudes, in addition to the equatorward shift of the Ferrel cell. Therefore, SASH weakens and contracts, resulting in a reduction of the tropical Atlantic moisture supply to South America and negative precipitation anomalies in the tropical region - similar to the suppression pattern of the South Atlantic Convergence Zone. Our results suggest that SIE retraction (expansion) in the Weddell Sea may contribute to the weakening (strengthening) of the SASH and an early-ending (longer-ending) or drier-ending (wetter-ending) rainy season in tropical South America.
  • Mesozoic/cenozoic strike-slip tectonics in the catarinense shield and its correlation with structures associated with the continental rift in southeastern Brazil Geosciences

    MACHADO, RÔMULO; JACQUES, PATRÍCIA D.; NUMMER, ALEXIS R.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Structural studies carried out on mesoscopic scale of planar and linear brittle structures from quarries in Precambrian rocks of the central-southern portion of the Catarinense Shield led to a characterization of four main fault directions: NE-SW, NW-SE and some around N-S and E-W. The older dextral (~ N-S) and sinistral (~ E-W) strike-slip faults are explained through a paleostress field approximately NE-SW oriented. The younger dextral (NE-SW) and sinistral (NW) strike-slip faults are compatible with an approximately E-W oriented paleostress field. The oldest event fits between the Cretaceous and Cenozoic and the younger event fits between the Neogene and Quaternary.
  • Assessing Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems in the characterization of rocky shores for oil spills environmental sensitivity mapping, northern São Paulo littoral, Brazil Geosciences

    CERRI, RODRIGO I.; RODRIGUES, FLÁVIO H.; OLIVEIRA, GABRIEL H.S. DE; REIS, FÁBIO A.G.V.; WIECZOREK, ARTHUR; LONGHITANO, GEORGE A.; DUARTE, DÉBORA M.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) for oil spills was developed to assist coordinators to evaluate oil spill impact along shorelines and also to coordinate the allocation of resources during and after the incident, aiming to reduce environmental damage and consequences. Recently, Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) are being used in a wide range of areas, since they complement traditional remote sensing data (e.g., satellite images) and offer a rapidly, precise, detail and high-resolution images that fit well for environmental studies. Herein, the use of high-resolution RPAS images for ESI analysis of rocky shores in the Brazilian territory was performed. Using RPAS images, with their higher-resolution compared with ArcGIS Pro Basemap satellite images, increased the detailed of ESI analysis for oil spills, increasing the number of regions in the rocky shore that are more sensitive to oil spills. The RPAS images were able to decrease the number of areas that were less sensitive to oil spills, and increase areas that are more sensitive to oil spills. This increase is important, since they were not detected in the ESI analysis using conventional ArcGIS Pro Basemap satellite images. The RPAS images permit to delineate precisely rocky shores, improving ESI interpretation in rocky shores.
  • Evolution of public policies on natural disasters in brazil and worldwide Geosciences

    KUHN, CAIUBI E.S.; REIS, FÁBIO A.G.V.; OLIVEIRA, VINICIUS G. DE; CABRAL, VICTOR C.; GABELINI, BEATRIZ M.; VELOSO, VINICIUS Q.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract This work aims to carry out an analysis of the evolution of the civil defense protection policy in Brazil, as well as to present an overview of research related to public policies on natural disasters in the world. The research was developed by documentary analysis of Brazilian policies on the protection of civil defense and bibliometric analysis of the global data. The evolution of public policy on natural disasters in Brazil was divided into four different moments: a) military civil defense (1942-1946), b) disaster assistance policy (1967-1988), c) Civil Defense system in construction (1988-2005), and d) consolidation of the civil defense system (2005- to the present). The structuring of public policy reflected in 4 different stages in relation to the recording of information about disasters. Bibliometric analysis showed that the first works related to public civil defense policies in the world appeared only in 1980, and are mainly concentrated in the United States, which accounts for 42.56% of the works, while Brazil is the 6th country with 3.76% of global searches. Thus, it is possible to conclude that public policies and databases have a recent evolution both in Brazil and in the world, especially in developing countries.
  • Comparison of stationary and nonstationary estimation of return period for sewer design in Antioquia (Colombia) Geosciences

    CHICA-OSORIO, PAOLA A.; CARVAJAL-SERNA, LUIS F.; OCHOA, ANDRÉS

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Estimating the probability of occurrence of extreme hydrologic events is a fundamental input in the design of hydraulic infrastructure. The classical approach to this problem has been to fit parametric probability functions to annual maxima streamflow data and use them to calculate the risk of failure. An underlying assumption of this approach is the stationarity of the time series. However, the stationarity of streamflows may not hold due to the effect of land cover change and climate change on rainfall runoff processes on watersheds. This study assesses the effect of considering non-stationarity in the estimation of design peak flows at 33 gauging stations in the state of Antioquia, Colombia. Particularly, the effect of non-stationarity in the mean of Gumbel-distributed peak flows is evaluated. This study focuses on the 5-yr and 10-yr return period annual flood flows, which are customary in the design of type sewerage systems. The results show similar behaviours for both return periods. All gauge stations show an asymptotically tendency in the risk of failure to 100% as the project lifetime tends to 30 years. In general, 71.4% of gauging stations show that the estimated risk of failure is larger when non-stationary conditions are assumed, relative to assuming stationary conditions, and that the magnitude of the difference increases for larger return periods. The rest of gauging stations shows the opposite behaviour. Our results support the use of a probability model that includes non-stationary in the mean, and they suggest that a model that also includes non-stationary in the variance could be important.
  • South Atlantic explosive cyclones in 2014-2015: study employing NCEP2 and MERRA-2 reanalyses Geosciences

    ANDRADE, HUGO N.; NUNES, ANDRÉ B.; TEIXEIRA, MATEUS S.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract An analysis of explosive cyclone cases was produced by comparing the reanalysis of MERRA-2 (high spatial resolution) and NCEP2 (low spatial resolution) to South Atlantic in the 2014-2015 period. A total of 51 cases were found, of which 49 were detected by the first reanalysis and 33 by the second (2 cases identified by NCEP2 were not identified by MERRA-2). Spring was the dominant season in the formation of the cases in both reanalyses. It was observed that most systems are formed preferentially eastward of a preexisting trough at higher levels, while others are formed under an almost zonal upper airstream. This difference is more evident in the NCEP2. It was also diagnosed that the MERRA-2 shows more clearly the diffluence in the 250 hPa flow. The analysis of the composite fields revealed a negative horizontal tilt of the trough in 500 hPa, influenced by intense convection as the system develops. Besides, it pointed to a more pronounced jet stream in intense explosive cyclones and more prominent diffluence in non-intense cases. Since the NCEP2 reanalysis detected fewer cases (and only 2 intense) than MERRA-2, it was considered that the former is less suited to the analysis of this type of event.
  • Mutagenic effect of a commercial fungicide on Rana catesbeiana and Leptodactylus latrans tadpoles Animal Science

    ASSIS, RHAYANE A.; BENVINDO-SOUZA, MARCELINO; ARAÚJO-SANTOS, CIRLEY G.; BORGES, RINNEU E.; SANTOS-FILHO, ITAMAR D.; OLIVEIRA, LEISSA CAROLINA; MENDONÇA, MARIA ANDREIA C.; SANTOS, LIA RAQUEL S.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract We have examined the mutagenic effects of the fungicide Elatus® on tadpoles of Rana catesbeiana and Leptodactylus latrans. Sixty-four tadpoles of each species have been exposed to three concentrations of Elatus® (10, 20, and 50 µg/L-1) during 96 hours. We’ve carried out the micronucleus test (MN) and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities (ENAs) in 32 tadpoles of each species, the others 32 tadpoles of each species remained in a solution free of Elatus® during 96 hours, in order to assess the ability to recover from the damage caused by the fungicide. There was significant difference in MNs frequency between the treatment exposed to 50µg/L-1 and the control groups for R. catesbeiana, while for L. latrans, we’ve found difference between the treatment of 20 µg/L-1, followed by a period without exposure to the contaminant and the control group when all ENAs were analyzed. When we compared the two species, R. catesbeiana presented a higher frequency of MNs than L. latrans in the treatment exposed to 50 µg/L-1of the fungicide. Our findings highlight the need to monitor amphibians in places where this product is widely used.
  • Autochthonous and allochthonous lactic acid bacteria: action on the hematological and intestinal microbiota for two species of Astyanax genus Animal Science

    JATOBÁ, ADOLFO; JESUS, GABRIEL F.A.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of autochthonous and allochthonous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in two species of lambaris (Astyanax bimaculatus and Astyanax fasciatus), and to investigate the effects on intestinal microbiota and hematological changes. Two experiments were carried out, one for each lambari species, both assays were divided into three treatments: autochthonous LAB, allochthonous LAB and control. The 10% inoculum was included on diet in the LAB treatments and sterile medium for control. After 30 days for A. bimaculatus LAB indigenous changes all bacteria groups analyzed, while allochthonous LAB just decrease Staphylococcus spp. count. Though for A. fasciatus his autochthone LAB reduced the staphylococcal count. In hematology, for A. bimaculatus autochthonous LAB showed a higher number of thrombocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes and total leukocytes in the circulatory system than the control. Though for A. fasciatus his autochthone LAB showed a higher number of total lymphocytes and leukocytes than the control, while Lactobacillus sp. acting as an allochthone, it did not differ among treatments. In conclusion, both LAB (Lactobacillus sp. and L. lactis) promoted more beneficial changes in the microbiota and hematological profile when they act as an autochthone probiotic, demonstrating a probiotic-associated host.
  • Phenotypical categorization of indigenous ewes as resistant, resilient or susceptible to Haemonchus contortus Animal Science

    DAVID, CAROLINE M.G.; COSTA, RICARDO L.D. DA; B. JUNIOR, AYLTON; BELTRAME, RENATO T.; GONZÁLEZ, ARACELI R.M.; MADELLA-OLIVEIRA, APARECIDA F.; QUIRINO, CELIA R.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The economic losses caused by parasite infections, aggravated by resistance to anthelmintics, have generated demand for alternatives involving non-chemical control, such as the selection of resistant animals. The objective of this study was to identify which characteristics best describe animals that are resistant, resilient or susceptible to Haemonchus contortus and estimate the percent number in each category. Sixty-one Morada Nova ewes were evaluated in an extensive system. The performance variables (weight, body condition score), hematological variables (packed cell volume, hemoglobin, white blood cells, segmented neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes) and fecal egg counts were measured individually every 14 days during 6 months. The variables were transformed, and analysis of variance was carried out, with construction of a correlation network. Characteristics linked to parasite infection showed variations among the categories, which helped to identify sheep resistant, resilient or susceptible to H. contortus. Based on the analyses performed, 88.3% of the animals were resistant or resilient and only 11.7% were susceptible. Presence of Trichostrongylidae eggs, body condition score, packed cell volume (PCV) and eosinophil counts were found to be good indicators of naturally infected ewes, and there were significant differences between the categories and correlations between the traits.
  • Effects of the use of synthetic astaxanthin in the feeding of Lophiosilurus alexandri, a neotropical siluriform fish Animal Science

    COSTA, DANIEL P. DA; SILVA, MÁRCIO JOSÉ S.; GERALDI, RICARDO MARCELO; LORENZINI, JOÃO PAULO; MATTIOLI, CRISTIANO C.; OLIVEIRA, AFONSO DE LIGUORI; LUZ, RONALD K.; MIRANDA-FILHO, KLEBER C.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Aiming to test the capacity of retention of carotenoids in tissues, Lophiosilurus alexandri juveniles were fed diets containing 0, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of synthetic astaxanthin for 62 days. The inclusion of astaxanthin did not result in significant differences in growth, weight gain, apparent feed conversion, and feed efficiency of the fish. Blood biochemistry and liver histology did not change with the different treatments. At the level of 100 mg/kg of inclusion, there were the highest levels of carotenoids in the blood, and muscle and the smallest difference between the muscle x integument ratio.
  • Histological and Histochemical Dynamism of Oogenesis in the Cinnamon River Prawn Macrobrachium acanthurus (Caridea: Palaemonidae) Induced by Eyestalk Ablation Animal Science

    RODRIGUES, MARIA M.; GRECO, LAURA S. LÓPEZ; ALMEIDA, LUIS CARLOS F. DE; BERTINI, GIOVANA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Macrobrachium acanthurus is a caridean prawn native to Brazil, and studying techniques to assist in its cultivation is important due to economic interest in it. Eyestalk ablation is commonly used to promote ovarian development and maturation of captive crustaceans, but it can have possible consequences on fertility and brood quality. Histological and histochemical dynamism of oogenesis was analyzed under control (non-ablated females) and unilateral eyestalk ablated females. Females with ovaries in the spent stage of gonadal development were divided into two treatments: unilaterally ablated and non-ablated. A second experiment with the same treatments was conducted using females with mature gonads. Histological and histochemical analyses of the ovaries indicated that the ablation did not affect oogenesis based on ovarian structure, oocyte size, histochemical properties, and atretic oocytes. Ovarian maturation was not accelerated by ablation, either. Survival, nuptial molting, and spawning were also unaffected. From an applied point of view, unilateral eyestalk ablation is not needed in M. acanthurus farming because it does not improve reproductive performance.
  • Peripheral isolation and demographic stability are reflected in the genetic diversity of the populations of the Helmeted Manakin: a bird endemic to the gallery forests Animal Science

    SOUZA, THAINARA O.; LUNA, LEILTON W.; ARARIPE, JULIANA; SILVA, WEBER A. DE G. E; REGO, PÉRICLES S. DO

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The Cerrado encompasses a complex network of hydrographic basins, which is responsible for the formation and maintenance of the riparian and gallery forests. Alterations in the vegetation resulting from the paleoclimatic changes that occurred during the Pleistocene influenced the current distribution of these humid forests. To understand of the evolutionary dynamics of this landscape on the population structure of the associated organisms, we studied the population genetics of the Antilophia galeata (Pipridae), a bird endemic to the gallery forests of the Cerrado. For this, we evaluated the variability of the mitochondrial control region of 71 A. galeata specimens from 18 localities distributed throughout the Cerrado. The results indicated the existence of significant substructure among the populations located in the peripheral areas of the Cerrado, in comparison with the populations found in the central portion, reflecting historical changes in the environment. We also found high levels of diversity in all the populations, while the analysis of the demographic history revealed a scenario of stability. Overall, then, these findings indicate that the historical modifications of the gallery forest distribution may have been most accentuated in the peripheral zones, with a greater stability and connectivity persisting in the central portion of the biome.
  • High reproductive effort in a vulnerable lizard from high altitudes in Argentina: Reproductive biology and sexual dimorphism in Phymaturus extrilidus Animal Science

    PIZARRO, JESÚS E.; LASPIUR, ALEJANDRO; ACOSTA, JUAN C.; BLANCO, GRACIELA M.; BORETTO, JORGELINA M.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Reproductive biology is fundamental to understanding the ecology and evolution of lizards which, in turn, is essential for the definition of the species´ conservation status. We studied life-history traits related to the reproduction of the Phymaturus extrilidus lizard, including the male and female reproductive cycles, litter size, mean annual reproductive output, reproductive effort, sexual maturity size and sexual dimorphism, body condition, and fat body cycles. We found sexual dimorphism in size and shape, supporting the hypotheses of sexual and fecundity selection. Females exhibited biennial reproductive cycles synchronous with the annual prenuptial male cycle, adjusted for the maturation of the vitellogenic follicles of females. Females of P. extrilidus have the highest mean annual reproductive output (MARO=1.14) recorded in Phymaturus, and this is accompanied by the highest reproductive effort (C=0.28, C energetic =0.31). Births occur from late summer to early autumn. The female reproductive cycle, strictly biennial, like all species of the P. palluma group, and the vitellogenesis in particular, appear to be limited by body condition and the amount of fat body stored. This study presents the fundamental reproductive traits of P. extrilidus that can provide valuable information to be used in the evaluation of the conservation status of this species.
  • A new species of Euclymene (Maldanidae, Annelida) from Brazil, with new combinations, and phylogenetic implications for Euclymeninae Animal Science

    ASSIS, JOSÉ ERIBERTO DE; SOUZA, JOSÉ ROBERTO BOTELHO DE; FITZHUGH, KIRK; CHRISTOFFERSEN, MARTIN LINDSEY

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Maldanids are tube-building polychaetes, known as bamboo-worms; inhabit diverse marine regions throughout the world. The subfamily Euclymeninae was proposed to include forms with anal and cephalic plates, a funnel-shaped pygidium, and a terminal anus. Euclymene, the type genus of Euclymeninae, has about 18 valid species. Euclymene vidali sp. nov. is defined and members of the species described from Northeastern Brazil. Members of this species have 23 chaetigers, and one pre-pygidial achaetous segment; nuchal grooves extend through three quarters of the cephalic plate, and there is one acicular spine with a denticulate tip. Euclymene africana, and E. watsoni, are here recognized, respectively, as Isocirrus africana comb. nov., and I. watsoni comb. nov. Three monotypic genera are invalid: Macroclymenella, Eupraxillella, and Pseudoclyemene; their species should be recognized as Clymenella stewartensis com. nov., Praxillella antarctica com. nov., and Praxillela quadrilobata com. nov., respectively. An identification key and a comparative table for all species of Euclymene are provided. A comparative table for all genera of Euclymeninae is also furnished. The paraphyletic status of Euclymene and Euclymeninae is discussed. The taxon Maldanoplaca is not code compliant and should only be regarded as an informal name.
  • Toxicity of Essential Oil of Mentha piperita (Lamiaceae) and its Monoterpenoid Menthol Against Tetranychus urticae Kogan 1836 (Acari: Tetranychidae) Crop Science

    SOUZA, LAUANA P. DE; ZUIM, VITOR; STINGUEL, PRISCILA; PINHEIRO, PATRÍCIA F.; ZAGO, HUGO B.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Essential oils from plants have remarkable biological properties, for example as insecticides and acaricides. Here we provide chemical analysis and evaluate the toxicity of the essential oil of Mentha piperita (Lamiaceae) and its main constituent menthol against Tetranychus urticae Kogan 1836 (Acari: Tetranychidae), a polyphagous pest present in agricultural landscapes. The essential oil was obtained from M. piperita leaves via hydrodistillation. Subsequently, concentration-response bioassays in adult females (fumigation and contact) were conducted to evaluate the lethal effect on the mite with three exposure intervals. We also evaluated the reproductive performance of females after exposure. Both substances were lethal in the fumigation bioassay, in addition, the essential oil was about 6-fold more toxic than menthol after 24 and 48 h of exposure. The fecundity of T. urticae females decreased inversely proportional to the increase of the used concentrations. Essential oil contact tests showed sublethal effects, with low mortality and reproductive stimulation of T. urticae females. Therefore, menthol and M. piperita essential oil can be considered potential acaricides for T. urticae by fumigant exposure due to the deleterious effect in adults and reduction in the number of individuals in subsequent generations, that represents a promising management tool.
  • Post-fire dynamics of tree vegetation in forests with and without a history of selective logging in the Eastern Amazon Forestry Science

    COSTA, DANIELE L. DA; DIAS, ANDREA N.; FIGUEIREDO FILHO, AFONSO; GAMA, JOÃO RICARDO V.; ANDRADE, DÁRLISON F.C. DE; AGUIAR, DIEGO R.; SANTOS, MISAEL F. DOS

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Worldwide, forests are susceptible to fire. Forests with fire and selective logging interactions require monitoring and evaluation. This study evaluated the phytosociology and dynamics of tree vegetation in a disturbed forest (DF) and an undisturbed forest (UF) in selective logging areas affected by fire, in the Brazilian East Amazon. All trees with DBH ≥ 5 cm were measured and identified botanically in 93 plots (5 X 50 m) in the DF area and 58 plots (5 X 50 m) in the UF area, in 2010 (before logging), 2011, 2015 and 2017 (two years after the fire). Analysis of species and tree composition, diversity, similarity, mortality and recruitment were carried out. The fire affected the DF and UF areas in a similar proportion in terms of trees loss and basal area, intensifying the mortality rate. In the short term (2 years), the fire did not cause a significant reduction in species diversity, but there was a tendency towards a similarity loss in species composition in the area disturbed by logging. Subsequent assessments are necessary to understand the forest’s recovery mechanisms.
  • A fuzzy-based methodological proposal for analysing green areas in urban neighborhoods Forestry Science

    MOTA, MAURÍCIO T. DA; GALVÃO, AMANDA LOUISI DOS S.; BRESSANE, ADRIANO; NEGRI, ROGÉRIO G.; ROVEDA, JOSÉ ARNALDO F.; ROVEDA, SANDRA REGINA M. M.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The reduction of the green areas due to the growth of the built-up areas has affected the environmental quality in cities. Nevertheless, some uncertainties remain about the adequate amount of such areas in the urban landscape. This study aims at introducing a methodology to support analysis of green areas in urban neighborhoods. The methodological proposal was based on a fuzzy expert system (FES), a soft computing approach capable of dealing with uncertainties in complex multiple-criteria decision-making. As empirical research, some case studies to introduce and validate the proposed methodology were performed. An agglomerative hierarchical clustering, followed by a Kruskal-Wallis test and multiple pairwise comparisons using the Conover-Iman procedure (significance 0.05), demonstrated that the FES was able to provide outcomes consistent with hypothetical situations, simulated as ideal and critical conditions of green areas. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the methodological proposal based on FES is a promising tool for complex case-by-case analysis in urban neighborhoods.
  • Genetic diversity and correlation between morphological traits of pequi fruits (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) with and without thorns at the endocarp Forestry Science

    GOMES, BRUNO H.; FARIA, MARCOS V.; MENDES, MARIANA G.; BONETTI, ANA MARIA; O. JÚNIOR, ROBSON JOSÉ DE; NOGUEIRA, ANA PAULA O.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Morphological characteristics of pequi fruits (Caryocar brasiliense) allows us to obtain information for the conservation, breeding, and detect genetic variability. Thus, the aims of this research were to characterize the genetic diversity of Caryocar brasiliense that produce fruits with and without thorn at the endocarp; determine the important characters in the study of genetic diversity, and to estimate phenotypic and genotypic correlations. 80 fruits with thorns and 90 fruits without thorns were evaluated. Data were used for analysis: Euclidian distance as a measure of dissimilarity and the Tocher method for delimitation of groups; Principal Component Analysis, and genotypic and phenotypic correlations. Genetic dissimilarity of C. brasiliense ranged from 0.066 (B6-D6) to 0.908 (A14-B3). Tocher method allowed dividing the matrices into three groups, the dendrogram into five groups, and the principal components allowed the distribution in 8 groups. We observed 15 significant correlations for characters of fruit with thorns and 31 correlations for characters of fruit without thorns. The weight of the fruit (with thorns) and the pyrene yield (without thorns) are relevant correlations for production. The groupings generated allowed the classification of the matrices into distinct sets. Allowed the identification of potential producers plants that could be used in breeding programs.
  • Analysis and numerical simulation of the sterilization of low-calorie grape jam Engineering Sciences

    LABORDE, MARIANA B.; PAGANO, ANA MARÍA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract The objective of this work was to analyze and defined an appropriate heat treatment for the sterilization of a low-calorie grape jam (39.26 ± 0.63 °Brix; pH 3.63 ± 0.04) obtained using fruits reduced in carbohydrates by optimized pretreatment, and natural Stevia sweetener to replace sucrose. For this purpose, different types of information and tools were used. The physicochemical characteristics and proximal composition of the jam were determined. Information as to what microorganisms as common saprophyte fungi in grapes can develop in these products was gathered from the available literature. The thermophysical properties of the product were determined. Different combinations of recommended time and temperature combinations for heat treatments that inhibit microorganisms were analyzed. FEM numerical were developed to predict temperature profiles during heat treatment. Also, microbiological analysis of yeast and yeast screening and counting was performed. As a result of this study, two heat treatments were proposed to inhibit the fungus B. fulva and B. nivea (common in grapes). Two autoclave sterilization processes (121.1°C; 20-32 lb/in2) were defined by the time-temperature combinations, T1: 100°C-5 minutes; T2: 100°C-10 minutes, to apply and maintain the desired temperature of 100°C throughout the product for 1.3-27 seconds. Both treatments were considered suitable for sterilizing a 190 g jam container and were validated by microbiological analysis.
  • Acceleration strategies for Tridimensional Coupled hydromechanical problems based on CPU and GPU programming in MATLAB Engineering Sciences

    JOSEPH, JEAN B.; RIBEIRO, PAULO MARCELO V.; GUIMARÃES, LEONARDO J.N.; CHAVES JUNIOR, CICERO VITOR; TEIXEIRA, JONATHAN DA C.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Large-scale fluid flow in porous media demands intense computations and occurs in the most diverse applications, including groundwater flow and oil recovery. This article presents novel computational strategies applied to reservoir geomechanics. Advances are proposed for the efficient assembly of finite element matrices and the solution of linear systems using highly vectorized code in MATLAB. In the CPU version, element matrix assembly is performed using conventional vectorization procedures, based on two strategies: the explicit matrices, and the multidimensional products. Further assembly of the global sparse matrix is achieved using the native sparse function. For the GPU version, computation of the complete set of element matrices is performed with the same strategies as the CPU approach, using gpuArray structures and the native CUDA support provided by MATLAB Parallel Computing Toolbox. Solution of the resulting linear system in CPU and GPU versions is obtained with two strategies using a one-way approach: the native conjugate gradient solver (pcg), and the one provided by the Eigen library. A broad discussion is presented in a dedicated benchmark, where the different strategies using CPU and GPU are compared in processing time and memory requirements. These analyses present significant speedups over serial codes.
  • Prediction of Equipment Effectiveness using Hybrid Moving Average-Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (MA-ANFIS) for decision support in Bus Body Building Industry Engineering Sciences

    SIVAKUMAR, A.; SINGH, N. BAGATH; ARULKIRUBAKARAN, D.; RAJ, P. PRAVEEN VIJAYA

    Resumo em Inglês:

    Abstract Managers are driven to accomplish significantly higher levels of operational performance due to the difficulty of today’s dynamic production environment. Typically, the precision of production facilities and the efficiency of manufacturing systems are significant variables in productivity. Thus, predicting machine performance has become an inevitable challenge for production managers. However, the question of how managers can reliably assess the effectiveness of equipments for resource allocation remains unaddressed properly. This issue has received little attention in previous research, but it is important in today’s manufacturing environment. This study introduces a hybrid moving average - adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (MA-ANFIS) to predict the possible effectiveness of equipment. Three real-world problems are considered when developing and evaluating three distinct equipment effectiveness prediction models. The evaluation confirms that the hybrid MA-ANFIS model based on Gaussian membership function outperforms other developed models. This comprehensive solution is packaged as a decision support system. This aids production managers in evaluating the equipment effectiveness, and effectively improving equipment’s performance to reduce time and cost of bus body building.
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