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Sub-Antarctic fur seals, Arctocephalus tropicalis, are widely distributed in the southern hemisphere, breeding on islands north of the Antarctic Convergence in the South Atlantic, South Indian, and Southwestern Pacific Oceans. At their breeding grounds, sub-Antarctic fur seals feed on a variety of fish, cephalopods, crustaceans, and occasionally, on penguins. According to the literature, the species feeds mainly on squid and fish, in the southern Brazilian coast, during the non-breeding period and far away from its breeding colonies. Here, we present records of predation on penguins by sub-Antarctic fur seals off southern Brazilian coast (29°20′S, 49°43′W to 33°44‵S, 53°22′W). We examined the gastrointestinal contents of 61 sub-Antarctic fur seals collected from 1987 to 2019. Remaining of penguins were found in the gastrointestinal tracts of three adult males (4.9%). We identified feathers, and other bird parts by comparing them specimens from scientific collections and illustrations in the literature. Seabirds found in the gastrointestinal tracts of the three sub-Antarctic fur seals were most probably Magellanic Penguins, Spheniscus magellanicus. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting predation on penguins by sub-Antarctic fur seals far from their breeding colonies. Although penguins are not among the main prey of sub-Antarctic fur seals, our results suggest that they occasionally feed on penguins during the non-breeding period along the southern coast of Brazil.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:45:55Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2022-03-01 Agencia Nacional de Investigación e Innovación Trophic niche width and individual specialization among marine predators are often subjected to seasonal constraints. Differences are expected to arise for sexually dimorphic species exposed to distinct ecological opportunities, as well as intrinsic differences in physiological abilities or energetic requirements. We assess seasonal and sexual differences in isotopic niche overlap and width and analyze inter-individual foraging variation throughout the year of the South American fur seal (Arctocephalus australis). We obtained chronologically ordered δ13C and δ15N data from vibrissae of 25 males and 24 females from southern Brazil and Uruguay. There were significant differences between sexes for both isotopes with males showing higher values (δ13C = − 14.5 ± 0.5‰; δ15N = 18.9 ± 1.2‰) than females (δ13C = − 15.2 ± 0.5‰; δ15N = 17.8 ± 1.2‰), but not among seasons or years. A very small isotopic niche overlap found between sexes (1.1–9.5%), with limited seasonal variation, likely resulted from differences in prey consumption and foraging habitats. Compared to other seasons, females had a wider isotopic niche in spring. While males showed seasonal stability in the foraging niche, females showed some small variation, which is probably influenced by central place foraging. Both sexes had considerable interindividual variation in estimated dietary composition and had different proportions of potential prey contribution at the population level. These findings enlighten the knowledge of South American fur seal trophic ecology, and how they may seasonally and spatially shift their foraging strategies according to their distinct life histories. It ultimately reflects in a small niche partitioning and possibly low intraspecific competition at the species northernmost area of occurrence in the western South Atlantic. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG) Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha (ECOMEGA) Instituto de Oceanografia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG) Departamento de Ecología y Evolución Facultad de Ciencias Universidad de la República Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade de Ambientes Costeiros Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Laboratório de Estratigrafia e Paleontologia Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Centro Universitario Regional del Este Universidad de la República Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade de Ambientes Costeiros Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Laboratório de Estratigrafia e Paleontologia Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-10T20:10:32Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-08-28 Laboratorio de Ecologia e Conservacao da Megafauna Marinha-ECOMEGA (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande-FURG) Nucleo de Educacao e Monitoramento Ambiental-NEMA ESEC do Taim (Instituto Chico Mendes-ICMBio) Grupo de Estudos de Mamiferos Aquaticos do Rio Grande do Sul-GEMARS Laboratorio de Mamiferos Aquaticos-LAMAQ (Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina-UFSC) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) The Neotropical otter,Lontra longicaudis, is a semiaquatic mustelid that preys upon fish, amphibians, and crustaceans, in variable proportions according to habitat and/or season. Due to the difficulty of observing this species in the wild, information on its ecology is typically obtained through vestiges, such as feces, which usually do not provide data at the individual level. Thus, this study aimed to assess temporal and individual variation in the diet of the Neotropical otter through chronologically ordered carbon (delta C-13) and nitrogen (delta N-15) stable isotopes data, as a proxy for dietary variation. For this purpose, isotopic values of 127 fragments of vibrissae collected from 21 individuals found dead along three coastal regions of southern Brazil were analyzed. Values ranged between - 24.0 and - 12.9 parts per thousand for delta C-13 and from 10.6 to 18.4 parts per thousand for delta N-15. Vibrissae isotopic longitudinal data were variable, indicating individual changes in the proportion of food items consumed and in foraging sites that spanned from freshwater to marine environments. Most of the populational variation in isotopic composition resulted from differences between individuals. The results of this study revealed temporal and individual variation in resource and habitat use by the Neotropical otter in three coastal ecosystems, and suggest that a high individual foraging specialization may occur in this species. Univ Fed Rio Grande, Inst Oceanog, Lab Ecol & Conservacao Megafauna Marinha ECOMEGA, BR-96203900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Biociencias, Programa Posgrad Biodiversidade Ambientes Costeir, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Rio Grande, Inst Oceanog, Programa Posgrad Oceanog Biol, BR-96203900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil Grp Estudos Mamiferos Aquat Rio Grande do Sul GEM, BR-95560000 Torres, RS, Brazil Univ Extremo Sul Catarinense, Programa Posgrad Desenvolvimento Socioecon, BR-88806000 Criciuma, SC, Brazil Univ Fed Santa Catarina, Dept Ecol & Zool, Lab Mamiferos Aquat LAMAQ, BR-88040970 Florianopolis, SC, Brazil Univ Estadual Rio Grande do Sul, Lab Biodiversidade & Conservacao, BR-95520000 Osorio, RS, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Biociencias, Programa Posgrad Biodiversidade Ambientes Costeir, BR-11330900 Sao Vicente, SP, Brazil CNPq: PQ 310597/2018-8

The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficiency of different sources of residues in the composition of organomineral fertilizers on common bean yield. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse at the Federal University of Uberlândia. A randomized complete block design was used in the 2 x 4 + 2 factorial scheme corresponding to two organic sources (biosolids and filter cake) and four doses of pelletized organomineral fertilizer (50, 75, 100 and 125% of the recommendation for common bean, plus two additional treatments without fertilization and fertilization with mineral fertilizer). The plant height and stem diameter were evaluated at 30 days after sowing (DAS), and an average number of pods plant-1 and grains pod-1, yield (g plant-1), dry mass (g), and mass of 1000 grains (g) at 84 DAS. The organomineral fertilizer based on biosolids fertilizer provides the largest growth with the use of 100% of the recommended dose, the largest volume of dry mass up to 75% and the highest yield at 50%. The organomineral fertilizer based on filter cake increased dry mass volume. The organomineral fertilizers evaluated have the potential to substitute exclusively mineral fertilization in the common bean crop.

Crabs of the family Pseudothelphusidae are restricted to the Neotropical region and new species are described every year. They are threatened by habitat loss and knowledge of this family is almost limited to taxonomy and faunal surveys. Here, we investigate the presence of heterochely and laterality in Kingsleya castrensis, as a tool to infer ecological and behavioural aspects. Since most Pseudothelphusidae were described from a few individuals only, some aspects of morphological variation, sexual dimorphism, heterochely and laterality are confirmed herein for the first time for a species of Kingsleya. The sizes of dactylus and propodus of males, as well as the allometric growth of both sides of the chelipeds, were significantly larger and higher, respectively, when compared to females. The right side was significantly longer than the left and both sexes displayed right-handedness. These results are similar to those from other freshwater crab families, and provide a clue to a possible aggressive, display, and territorial behaviour in K. castrensis.

In the present study we used stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) analysis of whiskers to investigate the isotopic niche overlap and partition among three pack ice seals sampled along the Danco Coast, Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). Isotopic values in serially sampled whiskers of 34 leopard (Hydrurga leptonyx, HL), 13 crabeater (Lobodon carcinophaga, LC) and 14 Weddell (Leptonychotes weddellii, LW) seals were measured. Two clusters of leopard seals were identified based on their δ15N values: a high-trophic level group (HLhigh) and a low-trophic level group (HLlow). Overlap in SEAc was only seen between HL and LC, while HL and LW showed an overlap in their convex hulls, but no overlap in SEAc. Diet compositions estimated using Bayesian stable isotope mixing models revealed intra- and interspecific differences among seals. For leopard seals highest dietary contributor was krill, while for HLhigh krill and fish_cephalopod were the main contributors. Mixing models run separately for each HL seal showed a large variation in the proportional contribution of krill (12–90%) compared to the other sources (cephalopods, fish, penguins and seals). The crabeater seals almost exclusively consumed krill, with a low contribution of the other prey. Weddell seals, on the other hand, showed a high proportion of fish and a lower contribution of cephalopods and penguins, while the contribution of krill seemed to be minimal. This study is the first to compare isotopic niches of three Antarctic seals from the WAP. Our results indicate that crabeater and leopard seals seem to have a strong and a considerable dependence on krill, respectively. Although the WAP is characterized by an unusually high production of Antarctic krill the large community of vertebrate predators that feed upon this resource (penguins, seals and baleen whales) should be especially vulnerable under future scenarios of reduction of krill biomass. Under the current drastic environmental changes in the WAP, continuing to monitor WAP seal diets and the relative contribution of krill to them will help understand the degree to which climate change may alter the population dynamics of these upper trophic level species.

Pentavalent antimonials and amphotericin B remain as the main drugs to treat human leishmaniasis. However, the high toxicity and variable efficacy of treatment have stimulated the search for novel drug candidates. Naturally occurring alkaloids have a long history of antileishmanial activity. Here, we investigate the effects of the β-carboline-1-propionic acid alkaloid isolated from Quassia amara L., Simaroubaceae, against Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania infatum. The alkaloid was isolated after liquid-liquid fractionation followed by chromatographic purification of the Q. amara methanol extract. The antileishmanial activity was evaluated by the microdilution method, using resazurin as the viability indicator. In addition, annexin and propidium iodide were used to detect parasites undergoing apoptosis. The anti-amastigote activity of the β-carboline-1-propionic acid alkaloid was determined by the infection of RAW 264.7 macrophages. The alkaloid displayed leishmanicidal activity against Leishmania amazonensis and L. infantum promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes with 50% inhibitory concentration ranging from 2.7 ± 0.82 to 9.4 ± 0.5 μg/ml and selectivity indexes >10. Moreover, apoptotic Leishmania amazonensis (19.5%) and L. infantum (40.4%) promastigotes were detected after 5 h incubation with the alkaloid. Finally, the β-carboline-1-propionic acid alkaloid inhibited the production of NO of infected macrophages, suggesting that the intracellular amastigote elimination occurs in a nitrosative stress-independent way. The results shown here suggest that the β-carboline-1-propionic acid alkaloid has potential as an antileishmanial agent. Keywords: Apoptosis, Carboline alkaloids, Leishmania, Leishmanicidal activity, Macrophage infection

In some pathogens, trehalose biosynthesis is induced in response to stress as a protection mechanism. This pathway is an attractive target for antimicrobials as neither the enzymes, Tps1, and Tps2, nor is trehalose present in humans. Accumulation of T6P in Candida albicans, achieved by deletion of TPS2, resulted in strong reduction of fungal virulence. In this work, the effect of T6P on Tps1 activity was evaluated. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, C. albicans, and Candida tropicalis were used as experimental models. As expected, a heat stress induced both trehalose accumulation and increased Tps1 activity. However, the addition of 125 μM T6P to extracts obtained from stressed cells totally abolished or reduced in 50 and 60 % the induction of Tps1 activity in S. cerevisiae, C. tropicalis, and C. albicans, respectively. According to our results, T6P is an uncompetitive inhibitor of S. cerevisiae Tps1. This kind of inhibitor is able to decrease the rate of reaction to zero at increased concentrations. Based on the similarities found in sequence and function between Tps1 of S. cerevisiae and some pathogens and on the inhibitory effect of T6P on Tps1 activity observed in vitro, novel drugs can be developed for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by organisms whose infectivity and survival on the host depend on trehalose.

In mountainous regions, the amount of time that the land is exposed to the sun is one of the factors that influence the productive potential of legumes. The aim of our study was to evaluate, for two different terrain aspects under sun exposure faces, the production of green and dry matter, as well as the nutrient accumulation in the aerial part of legumes and the coffee productivity. The northwestfacing terrain is at 950 m altitude, the average annual temperature is 18.0 °C, the average rainfall is 1320 mm and the average daily solar exposure is 9.1 h. The south-facing terrain is at 690 m altitude, the average annual temperature is 14.0 °C, the average rainfall is 1277 mm and the average daily solar exposure is 6.8 h.The main soil of both terrains are a clayey dystrophic Red-Yellow Oxisol. The experimental design was inrandomized blocks with a 2 x 8 factorial scheme (two different terrain aspects and 8 types of green manure), and four replications were performed.On the northwest-facing terrain, D. lablab, C. spectabilis, and S. deeringianum had the highest amount of dry matter (3.31, 2.98, and 2.85 Mg ha, respectively) and nitrogen accumulation (111.54, 91.83, and 91.51 kg ha, respectively).The most promising legumes on the south-facing terrain (lower altitude, lower temperature, and lower incidence of light) for dry matter productions were C. spectabilis (3.45 Mg ha) and S. deeringianum (3.30 Mg ha). C. spectabilis obtained 106.03, 10.36, and 50.42 kg ha of N, P, and K, respectively; while S. deeringianum accumulated 89.98, 8.10, and 52.54 kg ha of N, P, and K, respectively. The use of C. cajan, C. spectabilis, and S.deeringianum resulted in greater coffee productivity on the south-facing terrain than on the northwest-facing terrain.

Summary The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a dietary Allium sativum (garlic) addition on growth, parasite infestation and blood parameters in Colossoma macropomum (tambaqui) using 12 net-cages (1 m3). There were four treatments with three replicates each (15 fish per replicate). Tambaqui of 112.4 g mean weight were fed for 45 days with diets containing 0, 15, 30 and 45 g of fresh garlic kg−1 feed. Garlic did not affect the tambaqui survival, growth, feed conversion, body condition, plasma glucose levels, total plasma protein levels or red blood cells. Total leukocyte and lymphocyte numbers decreased in fish fed diets containing 45 g garlic kg−1 feed, but neutrophils decreased in fish fed diets containing 15, 30 and 45 g garlic kg−1 diet, while the number of immature leukocytes increased in fish fed 30 g and 45 g garlic kg−1diet. Gills in fish fed 30 and 45 g kg−1 diet had lower infestation (52% and 63%, respectively) of Anacanthorus spathulatus (Monogenea) compared to controls. The application of garlic in diets improved the response of leukocytes and enhanced the resistance to infections by monogeneans.

Individual variation in habitat and resource use has been reported for many top predators. This variation becomes important when comparing individuals taking into account sex, size, or age classes, since it can influence population dynamics and stability. We evaluated the individual variation and sexual/geographical isotopic niche overlap of the South American fur seal (SAFS) from the western South Atlantic. Whiskers of adult individuals from Brazil (n = 19), Uruguay (n = 29), and Argentina (n = 5) collected between 2005 and 2016 were serially sampled, resulting in 1001 samples, and their carbon and nitrogen isotopic ratios were analyzed longitudinally. According to its length, time integrated by whiskers ranged between 1.4 and 5.6 years. Males had δ13C (− 14.5 ± 0.6‰) and δ15N (18.9 ± 1.2‰) values significantly higher than females (δ13C = − 15.2 ± 0.5‰, δ15N = 17.8 ± 1.2‰). Females from Uruguay and Brazil were isotopically similar, displaying a large isotopic niche overlap (65.2–84%). Contrary, moderate isotopic niche overlaps were observed between males from Uruguay and Brazil (40.1–48.4%), and Uruguay and Patagonia (22.3–27.8%), indicating the use of different prey and/or feeding grounds. The WIC/TNW index of individual specialization pointed a significant specialization in males (0.38 for δ15N and 0.39 for δ13C). Females, on the other hand, are more generalists compared to males (0.53 and 0.71, for δ15N and δ13C, respectively). Differences in the ecological opportunity between sexes can account for these variations. Our study points out that trophic generalist populations of SAFS are composed of specialist and generalist individuals. Fil: Lima de Araujo, Renan. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande; Brasil Fil: Franco Trecu, Valentina. Universidad de la República; Uruguay Fil: Vales, Damián Gustavo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Centro Nacional Patagónico. Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos; Argentina Fil: Inchausti, Pablo. Universidad de la República; Uruguay Fil: Secchi, Eduardo Resende. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande; Brasil Fil: Botta, Silvina. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande; Brasil

Traits related to fruit yield and physical and chemical fruit quality are being evaluated by Embrapa pumpkin breeding program. Path and Pearson's correlation analysis are necessary to allow the knowledge of the relation between the variables of interest for this program. The objective of the present study was to determine the genetic correlations between yield- and sensorial and nutritional quality attributes-associated variables in pumpkin progenies to support the selection process. Twelve genotypes were evaluated for 10 yield-related traits, and 8 sensory and nutritional quality traits of fruit, including the commercial cultivar Jacarezinho. A path analysis considered the fruit weight (FrW) was as basic variable and the others as explanatory. The FrW had 98% of its total variation available in a function of the explanatory variables. The highest variations were observed in the fruit-shape related traits. In addition, the variables internal median cavity diameter (IDmed), equatorial pulp thickness (EPT), apical pulp thickness (APT), and smallest fruit diameter (Dsm) are indicated for a direct selection of progenies targeting a higher FrW. The correlation analysis highlighted that color-related variables have the possibility of indirect selection aiming to increase total carotenoid content (TCC) and ?-carotene content (?-car). The evaluated progenies showed notable soluble solids content (SSC), TCC and ?-car contents compared to the commercial cultivar. Furthermore, the contribution of ?-car to TCC is at least 50% higher in these progenies than in 'Jacarezinho' pumpkin. Made available in DSpace on 2019-12-20T18:08:50Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Correlationsbetweenfruityieldandsensoryandnutritional.pdf: 1022971 bytes, checksum: 136b5307fd7144c382f8833b77138a70 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2019

The morphology of the foregut ossicles of representatives of four genera of Dilocarcinini were described to assess the usefulness of the ossicles as possible morphological characters in studies on the intrafamilial relationships of Trichodactylidae. Stomachs of specimens of Dilocarcinus pagei Stimpson, 1861, D. septemdentatus (Herbst, 1783), Moreirocarcinus emarginatus (H. Milne Edwards, 1853) and M. laevifrons (Moreira, 1901) were heated for 60 minutes in 10% KOH solution and then were stained with Alizarin Red 1% added into the KOH solution. The foregut ossicles of Dilocarcinini consists of 11 ossicles of the gastric mill, 10 of the lateral supporting cardiac region, 4 of the cardio-pyloric valve, 6 supporting the dorsal pyloric stomach, 9 supporting the ventral pylorus and bulb, 3 supporting the supra-ampullary region, 5 supporting the lateral pylorus region, totaling 48 ossicles and the following 34 are similar in shape, size and degree of calcification. The morphological differences between the majority of the ossicles were not very clear among the species, showing inconsistency intrageneric differences, however, species of different genera showed small similarities between them. There is a clear need for including more taxa in a comparative analysis, combined with external morphology and perhaps even molecular data to properly evaluate the phylogenetic relationships within Trichodactylidae and their systematic position within Brachyura.

The gastric armature of decapod foregut is a feeding structure that sparks controversial debates about the role dietary and historical components have in shaping its morphological traits. Having previous information about the natural diet is an interesting way to gather evidence on this issue. For the present study, we analyzed the morphological traits of gastric ossicles involved directly in the maceration of food in nine species of freshwater crabs of the family Trichodactylidae (Brachyura: Decapoda) representing five genera, three tribes and two subfamilies. The analyzed gastric ossicles were quite consistent among closely related species, suggesting that the observed traits had a clear phylogenetic component. However, it was also noted that the morphological traits of the gastric teeth of trichodactylid crabs match well with the natural diet and presented likeness with general features of other species with a similar trophic habit. We discuss the influence of phylogeny and function on the design of morphological traits and propose to quantify the role of phylogeny and function in shaping morphological traits through the analysis of phylogenetic signals. Fil: de Azevedo Carvalho, Débora. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Santa Fe. Instituto Nacional de Limnología. Universidad Nacional del Litoral. Instituto Nacional de Limnología; Argentina Fil: Collins, Pablo Agustin. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Santa Fe. Instituto Nacional de Limnología. Universidad Nacional del Litoral. Instituto Nacional de Limnología; Argentina Fil: Lima Gomes, Renata. Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia, Inovações. Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia; Brasil Fil: Magalhaes Filho, Celio Ubirajara. Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia, Inovações. Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia; Brasil Fil: Torres, María Victoria. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Santa Fe. Instituto Nacional de Limnología. Universidad Nacional del Litoral. Instituto Nacional de Limnología; Argentina Fil: Williner, Verónica. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Santa Fe. Instituto Nacional de Limnología. Universidad Nacional del Litoral. Instituto Nacional de Limnología; Argentina

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (8-HQC) on the quality and longevity of heliconia ?Golden Torch? inflorescences stored at 23.9±1.8°C and 51±9% RH. The treatments consisted of 0, 100, 200 and 300 mg L-1 8-HQC, evaluated at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 days after harvest. The inflorescences were pulsed with 8-HQC for 18 h and subsequently transferred to flasks with distilled water. At every two days, floral appearance, fresh mass, flower opening, chroma and lightness were determined. The floral appearance was influenced by storage time and by the treatment with 8-HQC. However, the values of fresh weight, the flower opening, lightness and chroma were affected only by the number of days in storage. The fresh weight decreased by 1.6% from the first to eighth day after harvest. At the end of the storage time, the inflorescences exhibited two open flowers at the start of expansion. The lightness value increased by 3.4%, while the chroma decreased by almost 4.9% in bracts during storage, indicating the passage of dark orange color to light orange. The 8-HQC did not increase the vase life of inflorescences compared to control. Based on the scale of appearance, the inflorescences treated with 300 mg L-1 of 8-HQC had superior vase life compared with the other treatments, within eight days of evaluation.

The morphology of stomach ossicles of decapod crustaceans provides valuable information on their phylogeny and biology. We herein described ten new ossicles in the foreguts of two trichodactylid crabs, Sylviocarcinus pictus (H. Milne-Edwards, 1853) and Valdivia serrata White, 1847, in addition to previously described 38 ossicles, which are also recognized and listed. Five specimens each of S. pictus and V. serrata were selected for morphological analysis of gastric ossicles. The stomachs were obtained after removing the carapace, and they were fixed in 10% formalin for 24 hours. After this procedure, the stomachs were immersed in a solution of 10% Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) and heated to 100 °C during 60 minutes for tissue maceration. At this point, the clean skeletons were colored by adding 1% Alizarin Red to the KOH solution in order to facilitate visualization of the internal structures such as the setae and ossicles. The ten new ossicles are: dorsomedial cardiac plate; dorsolateral cardiac plate; suprapectineal lateral ossicle; inferior cardiac valve; lateral mesopyloric ossicle; ampullary roof-medium portion ossicle; process of the ampullary roof-upper portion; lateral-inferior post-ampullary plate; pleuro-pyloric valve’s ossicle; and lateral pleuro-pyloric plate. Some ossicles are thin plates that together with the main ossicles assist in the structure and support of the stomach, which are similar in the two species studied herein. The current knowledge on gastric ossicles will be useful in establishing taxonomic characters, which can evaluate phylogenetic relationships among brachyuran crabs. © 2017, Sociedade Brasileira de Zoologia. All rights reserved.

Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission in the Americas was first confirmed in May 2015 in Northeast Brazil1. Brazil has the highest number of reported ZIKV cases worldwide (>200,000 by 24 Dec 20162) as well as the greatest number of cases associated with microcephaly and other birth defects (2,366 confirmed cases by 31 Dec 20162). Following the initial detection of ZIKV in Brazil, 47 countries and territories in the Americas have reported local ZIKV transmission, with 24 of these reporting ZIKV-associated severe disease3. Yet the origin and epidemic history of ZIKV in Brazil and the Americas remain poorly understood, despite the value of such information for interpreting past and future trends in reported microcephaly. To address this we generated 54 complete or partial ZIKV genomes, mostly from Brazil, and report data generated by the ZiBRA project – a mobile genomics lab that travelled across Northeast (NE) Brazil in 2016. One sequence represents the earliest confirmed ZIKV infection in Brazil. Joint analyses of viral genomes with ecological and epidemiological data estimate that ZIKV epidemic was present in NE Brazil by March 2014 and likely disseminated from there, both nationally and internationally, before the first detection of ZIKV in the Americas. Estimated dates of the international spread of ZIKV from Brazil indicate the duration of pre-detection cryptic transmission in recipient regions. NE Brazil’s role in the establishment of ZIKV in the Americas is further supported by geographic analysis of ZIKV transmission potential and by estimates of the virus’ basic reproduction number.One Sentence SummaryVirus genomes reveal the establishment of Zika virus in Brazil and the Americas, and provide an appropriate timeframe for baseline (pre-Zika) microcephaly in different regions.

University of Oxford. Department of Zoology, Oxford, UK / Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. University of Birmingham. Institute of Microbiology and Infection. Birmingham, UK. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology. Oxford UK. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology. Oxford, UK / Harvard Medical School. Boston, MA, USA / Boston Children's Hospital. Boston, MA, USA. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology. Oxford, UK. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division. Seattle, WA, USA / University of Washington. Department of Epidemiology. Seattle, WA, USA. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. University of Oxford. Department of Statistics. Oxford, UK. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology. Oxford, UK. Institut Pasteur. Biostatistics and Integrative Biology. Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases and Center of Bioinformatics. Paris, FR / Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique. Paris, FR. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology. Oxford, UK. Ministry of Health. Coordena??o dos Laborat?rios de Sa?de. Bras?lia, DF, Brazil. Ministry of Health. Coordena??o Geral de Vigil?ncia e Resposta ?s Emerg?ncias em Sa?de P?blica. Bras?lia, DF, Brazil / Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Center of Data and Knowledge Integration for Health. Salvador, BA, Brazil. Ministry of Health. Departamento de Vigil?ncia das Doen?as Transmiss?veis. Brasilia, DF, Brazil. Ministry of Health. Coordena??o Geral dos Programas de Controle e Preven??o da Mal?ria e das Doen?as Transmitidas pelo Aedes. Bras?lia, DF, Brazil / Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Buenos Aires, AR. Ministry of Health. Coordena??o Geral dos Programas de Controle e Preven??o da Mal?ria e das Doen?as Transmitidas pelo Aedes. Bras?lia, DF, Brazil / Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Ministry of Health. Coordena??o Geral dos Programas de Controle e Preven??o da Mal?ria e das Doen?as Transmitidas pelo Aedes. Bras?lia, DF, Brazil Ministry of Health. Departamento de Vigil?ncia das Doen?as Transmiss?veis. Brasilia, DF, Brazil. Ontario Institute for Cancer Research. Toronto, ON, Canada. University of Nottingham. Nottingham, UK The Scripps Research Institute. Department of Immunology and Microbial Science. La Jolla, CA, USA. The Scripps Research Institute. Department of Immunology and Microbial Science. La Jolla, CA, USA. University of California. Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Medicine & Infectious Diseases. San Francisco, CA, USA. University of California. Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Medicine & Infectious Diseases. San Francisco, CA, USA. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Divisi?n de Laboratorios de Vigilancia e Investigaci?n Epidemiol?gica. Ciudad de M?xico, MC. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Divisi?n de Laboratorios de Vigilancia e Investigaci?n Epidemiol?gica. Ciudad de M?xico, MC. Universidad Nacional Aut?noma de M?xico. Instituto de Biotecnolog?a. Cuernavaca, MC. Instituto Oswaldo Cruz. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Paul-Ehrlich-Institut. Langen, Germany. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica Noel Nutels. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica Noel Nutels. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica Noel Nutels. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Salvador, BA, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Natal, RN, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Natal, RN, Brazil / Universidade Potiguar. Natal, RN, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Natal, RN, Brazil / Faculdade Natalense de Ensino e Cultura. Natal, RN, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Jo?o Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Jo?o Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Jo?o Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Jo?o Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Recife, PE, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Recife, PE, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Recife, PE, Brazil / Colorado State University. Department of Microbiology, Immunology &Pathology. Fort Collins, CO, USA. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Recife, PE, Brazil. Heidelberg University Hospital. Department for Infectious Diseases. Section Clinical Tropical Medicine. Heidelberg, Germany. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Recife, PE, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Macei?, AL, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Macei?, AL, Brazil. Laborat?rio Central de Sa?de P?blica. Macei?, AL, Brazil. Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana. Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil. Secretaria de Sa?de de Feira de Santana. Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil. Universidade Federal do Amazonas. Manaus, AM, Brazil. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. Hospital S?o Francisco. Ribeir?o Preto, SP, Brazil. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. Universidade Federal do Tocantins. Palmas, TO, Brazil. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. University of Sydney. Sydney, Australia. University of Edinburgh. Institute of Evolutionary Biology. Edinburgh, UK / National Institutes of Health. Fogarty International Center. Bethesda, MD, USA. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division. Seattle, WA, USA. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil / University of Texas Medical Branch. Department of Pathology. Galveston, TX, USA. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Salvador, BA, Brazil. University of Birmingham. Institute of Microbiology and Infection. Birmingham, UK. University of Oxford. Department of Zoology, Oxford, UK / Metabiota. San Francisco, CA, USA. University of S?o Paulo. School of Medicine &Institute of Tropical Medicine. Department of Infectious Disease. S?o Paulo, SP, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Salvador, BA, Brazil. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Salvador, BA, Brazil / University of Rome Tor Vergata. Rome, Italy. Transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV) in the Americas was first confirmed in May 2015 in northeast Brazil. Brazil has had the highest number of reported ZIKV cases worldwide (more than 200,000 by 24 December 2016) and the most cases associated with microcephaly and other birth defects (2,366 confirmed by 31 December 2016). Since the initial detection of ZIKV in Brazil, more than 45 countries in the Americas have reported local ZIKV transmission, with 24 of these reporting severe ZIKV-associated disease. However, the origin and epidemic history of ZIKV in Brazil and the Americas remain poorly understood, despite the value of this information for interpreting observed trends in reported microcephaly. Here we address this issue by generating 54 complete or partial ZIKV genomes, mostly from Brazil, and reporting data generated by a mobile genomics laboratory that travelled across northeast Brazil in 2016. One sequence represents the earliest confirmed ZIKV infection in Brazil. Analyses of viral genomes with ecological and epidemiological data yield an estimate that ZIKV was present in northeast Brazil by February 2014 and is likely to have disseminated from there, nationally and internationally, before the first detection of ZIKV in the Americas. Estimated dates for the international spread of ZIKV from Brazil indicate the duration of pre-detection cryptic transmission in recipient regions. The role of northeast Brazil in the establishment of ZIKV in the Americas is further supported by geographic analysis of ZIKV transmission potential and by estimates of the basic reproduction number of the virus.

[This study provides information concerning the feeding behaviour of Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille, 1803), through analysis of stomach contents according to demographic categories. Collections were carried out monthly from May 2005 through April 2006 in a subtropical estuary on the southeastern Brazilian coast (23°29′24″S 45°10′12″W). The crabs were collected by hand, with a 2-hour sampling effort by three people. In the laboratory, the crabs were sexed and measured for greatest carapace width, and grouped into demographic categories: adult males, juvenile males, adult females, juvenile females, and ovigerous females. For the fullness analysis, the stomachs were grouped into two categories: (1) E = Empty, with no food; and (2) F = Full, whether partially filled or totally. The frequency-of-occurrence method was used to characterize feeding behaviour, and the demographic categories recognired were compared. We obtained stomachs from 171 adult males, 69 juvenile males, 136 adult females, 72 juvenile females, and 41 ovigerous females, of which 85.6% were full. Of the eight food items recorded, sediment was the most frequent, and "unidentified material" was the least. Goniopsis cruentata can be characterized as a generalist feeder, exploiting most of the food items available in the mangrove swamps. In spite of this generalist behaviour, the dominant presence of sediment suggests that G. cruentata is primarily a detritivore that exploits particulate organic matter from microbial biodegradation, one of the most important mangrove functions. The trophic role of this crab in the ecosystem showed no significant differences among the demographic categories, and seems to be wider than those observed for sesarmid and ocypodid mangrove crabs. These ecosystem engineers may occupy different positions in the trophic chains of estuarine environments. Este estudo providencia informacoes sobre a composicao da dieta do caranguejo Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille, 1803) por meio de analise do conteudo estomacal, caracterizando os habitos alimentares nas diferentes categorias demograficas bem como a dinâmica temporal da alimentacao desses animais. O estudo foi realizado em um estuario em Ubatuba, Estado de Sao Paulo, litoral sudeste do Brasil, no periodo de maio de 2005 a maio de 2006. Os estomagos foram retirados e conservados em alcool 70%. Foi utilizado o metodo de Frequencia de Ocorrencia e as categorias demograficas foram comparadas. Foram analisados 489 estomagos, sendo 171 de machos adultos com tamanho medio de 33,14 ± 6,4 mm LC, 69 de machos jovens de tamanho medio 21,16 ± 4,9 mm LC, 136 de femeas adultas, com tamanho medio de 32,9 ± 5,1 mm LC, 72 de femeas jovens, com tamanho medio de 24,0 ± 3,3 mm LC e 41 estomagos de femeas ovigeras, com tamanho medio de 35,4 ± 4,4 mm LC. Foram identificados oito itens alimentares, sendo Sedimento o mais representativo. Nao foi verificada diferenca significativa entre as categorias alimentares entre as diferentes fases de desenvolvimento nem em relacao aos sexos, com excecao do item mollusca, mais frequente nos estomagos de femeas. Houve diferenca significativa entre femeas adultas e femeas ovigeras para os itens alimentares: algas, mollusca, vegetal e sedimento. Nao foram observadas alteracoes significativas na dieta nas diferentes estacoes do ano. Apesar do predominio do sedimento da composicao da dieta de G. cruentata , a especie demonstrou explorar varios outros itens alimentares. A maior importância do sedimento sugere que a especie adote a detritivoria como seu principal metodo para a obtencao de alimento, entretanto, a variedade de itens alimentares encontrados no trato digestivo tambem aponta G. cruentata como oportunista e generalista. , This study provides information concerning the feeding behaviour of Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille, 1803), through analysis of stomach contents according to demographic categories. Collections were carried out monthly from May 2005 through April 2006 in a subtropical estuary on the southeastern Brazilian coast (23°29′24″S 45°10′12″W). The crabs were collected by hand, with a 2-hour sampling effort by three people. In the laboratory, the crabs were sexed and measured for greatest carapace width, and grouped into demographic categories: adult males, juvenile males, adult females, juvenile females, and ovigerous females. For the fullness analysis, the stomachs were grouped into two categories: (1) E = Empty, with no food; and (2) F = Full, whether partially filled or totally. The frequency-of-occurrence method was used to characterize feeding behaviour, and the demographic categories recognired were compared. We obtained stomachs from 171 adult males, 69 juvenile males, 136 adult females, 72 juvenile females, and 41 ovigerous females, of which 85.6% were full. Of the eight food items recorded, sediment was the most frequent, and "unidentified material" was the least. Goniopsis cruentata can be characterized as a generalist feeder, exploiting most of the food items available in the mangrove swamps. In spite of this generalist behaviour, the dominant presence of sediment suggests that G. cruentata is primarily a detritivore that exploits particulate organic matter from microbial biodegradation, one of the most important mangrove functions. The trophic role of this crab in the ecosystem showed no significant differences among the demographic categories, and seems to be wider than those observed for sesarmid and ocypodid mangrove crabs. These ecosystem engineers may occupy different positions in the trophic chains of estuarine environments. Este estudo providencia informacoes sobre a composicao da dieta do caranguejo Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille, 1803) por meio de analise do conteudo estomacal, caracterizando os habitos alimentares nas diferentes categorias demograficas bem como a dinâmica temporal da alimentacao desses animais. O estudo foi realizado em um estuario em Ubatuba, Estado de Sao Paulo, litoral sudeste do Brasil, no periodo de maio de 2005 a maio de 2006. Os estomagos foram retirados e conservados em alcool 70%. Foi utilizado o metodo de Frequencia de Ocorrencia e as categorias demograficas foram comparadas. Foram analisados 489 estomagos, sendo 171 de machos adultos com tamanho medio de 33,14 ± 6,4 mm LC, 69 de machos jovens de tamanho medio 21,16 ± 4,9 mm LC, 136 de femeas adultas, com tamanho medio de 32,9 ± 5,1 mm LC, 72 de femeas jovens, com tamanho medio de 24,0 ± 3,3 mm LC e 41 estomagos de femeas ovigeras, com tamanho medio de 35,4 ± 4,4 mm LC. Foram identificados oito itens alimentares, sendo Sedimento o mais representativo. Nao foi verificada diferenca significativa entre as categorias alimentares entre as diferentes fases de desenvolvimento nem em relacao aos sexos, com excecao do item mollusca, mais frequente nos estomagos de femeas. Houve diferenca significativa entre femeas adultas e femeas ovigeras para os itens alimentares: algas, mollusca, vegetal e sedimento. Nao foram observadas alteracoes significativas na dieta nas diferentes estacoes do ano. Apesar do predominio do sedimento da composicao da dieta de G. cruentata , a especie demonstrou explorar varios outros itens alimentares. A maior importância do sedimento sugere que a especie adote a detritivoria como seu principal metodo para a obtencao de alimento, entretanto, a variedade de itens alimentares encontrados no trato digestivo tambem aponta G. cruentata como oportunista e generalista. ]

The effectiveness of cleaning and sanitizing procedures in controlling Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Enteritidis, and Pseudomonasfluorescens adhered to granite and stainless steel was evaluated. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the adherence of pure cultures of these microorganisms to stainless steel. The numbers of P. fluorescens and S. Enteritidis adhered to granite were greater (p < 0.05) than the numbers of S. aureus. Additionally, the adherence of P. fluorescens was similar to the adherence of S. Enteritidis on granite surface. In a mixed culture with P. fluorescens, S aureus adhered less (p < 0.05) to stainless steel surfaces (1.31 log CFU.cm-2) than when in a pure culture (6.10 log CFU.cm-2). These results suggest that P. fluorescens inhibited the adherence of S. aureus. However, this inhibition was not observed in the adherence process for granite. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the number of adhered cells before and after pre-washing for S. aureus on stainless steel and granite surfaces, and after washing with detergent for all microorganisms and surfaces. The efficiency of the cleaning plus sanitizing procedures was not significantly different (p > 0.05) between the surfaces. However, a significant difference was observed (p < 0.05) between the sanitizer solutions. Sodium hypochlorite and peracetic acid were more bactericidal (p < 0.05) than a quaternary ammonium compound. With regard to microorganisms, S. aureus was the least resistant to the sanitizers. These results show the importance of good cleaning and sanitization procedures to prevent bacterial adherence and biofilm formation. A eficiência dos procedimentos de limpeza e sanitização no controle de Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Enteritidis e Pseudomonasfluorescens aderidas em granito e aço inoxidável foi avaliada. Não houve diferença significativa (p > 0,05) na adesão destes microrganismos quando em cultura pura, em aço inoxidável. O número de células aderidas de P. fluorescens e S. Enteritidis foi maior (p < 0,05) que o número de células de S. aureus, em granito. Além disso, a adesão de P. fluorescens foi similar a de S. Enteritidis nesta última superfície. Em cultura mista com P.fluorescens, S. aureus aderiu menos (p < 0,05) em aço inoxidável (1,31 log UFC.cm-2) do que quando em cultura pura (6,10 log UFC.cm-2). Estes resultados sugerem que P. fluorescens inibiu a adesão de S. aureus. Entretanto, esta inibição não foi observada no processo de adesão em granito. Houve diferença significativa entre o número de células aderidas de S. aureus antes e após a pré-lavagem em ambas as superfícies e após o procedimento de limpeza para todos os microrganismos e todas as superfícies. A eficiência dos procedimentos de limpeza e sanitização não diferiram significativamente (p > 0,05) entre as superfícies. Entretanto, observou-se uma diferença (p < 0,05) entre as soluções sanitizantes utilizadas. Hipoclorito de sódio e ácido peracético apresentaram maior ação bactericida (p < 0,05) que o composto de amônia quaternária. Observou-se que S. aureus apresentou menor resistência à ação desses sanitizantes. Os resultados mostram a importância da adequada realização dos procedimentos de limpeza e sanitização para evitar a adesão bacteriana e formação de biofilme.

Barnebydendron J. H. Kirkbr. (Leguminosae – Caesalpinioideae – Detarieae), when first described under the name Phyllocarpus Riedel ex Tul. (1843), was considered to be a monospecific genus restricted to the Atlantic forest in the vicinity of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A later collection from Guatemala in 1908 expanded the genus to two species. Many collections have been made since then in other parts of Central and South America and the distribution of the genus merits close examination. Recent publications have not provided full descriptions or illustrations, or cited specimens seen. A reappraisal of the genus is presented here and the monospecific status of the genus is confirmed.

A survey of nodulation was carried out in seven regions of Brazil and the nodulation status of 131 legume species is reported. Nodulation is reported for the first time in 46 species and six genera, representing 35% of the examined species. Two of the genera were non-nodulating: Martiodendron and Nissolia, and four nodulating: Riedeliella, Bergeronia, Goldmania. Moreover the last tribe of Mimosoideae yet to be examined for nodulation Mimoziganthus, was shown to be nodulated. The nodulation pattern is discussed in the light of the taxonomy of the family.

Plant establishment was studied in a swamp forest in the lowland Atlantic rainforest in southeastern Brazil. A topographic gradient allowed a clear distinction between a periodically flooded and a permanently flooded site in the study area. Both sites were mosaics of patches: the former showed soil patches of varying sizes subject to distinct flooding durations (from 0 to 300 d per year) and in the latter, the tank bromeliads which densely occupied the understorey, trap litter and provided ‘suspended soil’ patches. In the periodically flooded site, the occurrence of regenerants (< 1.0 m tall) of the actively regenerating tree populations of Calophyllum brasiliense, Symphonia globulifera and Tovomitopsis paniculata (all Clusiaceae), originating from seed or vegetative organs, was recorded for 1 m2 quadrats placed in flooded (n = 82) and unflooded (n = 103) patches. In the permanently flooded site, dominated by Tabebuia cassinoides (Bignoniaceae), the presence of germinated seedlings was counted for 400 rosettes of the terrestrial tank bromeliad Nidularium procerum. The results showed that unflooded patches, including tank bromeliads, favoured seedling establishment. However, T. paniculata and T. cassinoides colonize patches where flooding lasts longer or is permanent mostly by reproducing vegetatively, while the seeds of C. brasiliense, which showed no form of vegetative reproduction, and S. globulifera are successful in colonizing flooded patches. Germination tests and field observations indicated that, for C. brasiliense, pre- and post-dispersal seed dormancy, a two-phase seed dispersal (water and bats) and seedling tolerance to flooding accounted for this pattern.

Brazil played a pioneering role in the global establishment of the sugarcane bioethanol industry. The bioethanol fermentation process currently used in Brazil is unique due to the acid wash and recycling of yeast cells. Two, industrially adopted, wild yeast strains, CAT-1 and PE-2, have become the most widely used in Brazil. How these strains respond to the unique fermentation process is poorly understood. The improved performance of CAT-1 and PE-2 is hypothesised to be related to enhanced stress tolerance. This study presents a genome-wide analysis of the CAT-1 and PE-2 transcriptomes during a small-scale fermentation process that mimicked the industrial conditions. The common and unique transcriptional responses of the two strains to the Brazilian fermentation process were identified. Environmental stress response genes were up-regulated postfermenter feeding, demonstrating the impact of the prior acid wash and high glucose environment. Cell wall and oxidative stress tolerance were subsequently demonstrated to be enhanced for the industrial strains. Conversely, numerous genes involved in protein synthesis were down-regulated at the end of fermentation revealing the later impact of ethanol-induced stress. Subsequently, the industrial strains demonstrated a greater tolerance of ethanol and the disruption of endoplasmic reticulum homoeostasis. This increased ethanol tolerance was finally correlated with an increased unfolded protein response and increased HAC1 splicing.

Soursop is a very perishable fruit. At room temperature, it has a shelf life limited to five days when it has been harvested at physiological maturity. Research into this fruit has been limited to date but its attractive flavor favors its commercialization in different regions. Identification of the correct harvest time and the use of postharvest technologies such as refrigeration, coatings and modified atmospheres, etc., can extend the shelf life of soursop fruit. The impact of orchard management on fruit quality is also considered.

Effects of two ethylene inhibitors, 1-methylcylopropene (1-MCP) and aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), on production of volatile compounds and mangiferin (a bioactive xanthone) in 'Tommy Atkins' mango fruit were investigated. Volatile composition and mangiferin content, in treated and untreated fruits at three maturity, stages were determined by SPME-GC-MS and HPLC, respectively. These chromatographical analysis revealed that the volatile profiles and mangiferin concentrations were not significantly different, suggesting that the use of ethylene inhibitors does not affect the mango aroma and functional properties relative to this xanthone. Moreover, a simple, precise and accurate HPLC method was developed for quantifying mangiferin in mango pulp.

During the 2007-2008 influenza season global strain surveillance for antiviral resistance revealed the sudden emergence of oseltamivir resistance in influenza A H1N1 isolates. Although oseltamivir resistance rates vary from region to region, 16% of isolates tested globally were found to be oseltamivir resistant by a histidine to tyrosine mutation of residue 275 of the neuraminidase gene of influenza A. In order to implement effective resistance testing locally a novel real-time reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) assay was developed for the detection of the H275Y mutation. To evaluate this method, 40 oseltamivir resistant and 61 oseltamivir sensitive H1N1 influenza isolates were tested using Sanger sequencing, which is the reference method for detection of resistance, pyrosequencing and the novel H275Y RT-PCR assay. In comparison to Sanger sequencing, the sensitivity and specificity of the H275Y RT-PCR assay were 100% (40/40) and 100% (61/61) respectively, while the sensitivity and specificity of pyrosequencing were 100% (40/40) and 97.5% (60/61) respectively. Although all three methods were effective in detecting the H275Y mutation associated with oseltamivir resistance, the H275Y RT-PCR assay was the most rapid and could easily be incorporated into an influenza subtyping protocol.

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T18:42:03Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf: 160149 bytes, checksum: 64c6c16fe2c791250de43b5aac4c24b5 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T18:42:03Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf: 160149 bytes, checksum: 64c6c16fe2c791250de43b5aac4c24b5 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-04-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T19:29:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf: 160149 bytes, checksum: 64c6c16fe2c791250de43b5aac4c24b5 (MD5) S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf.txt: 21542 bytes, checksum: fdf0db53f93406566a9574701b02b0db (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-04-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T15:07:55Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf: 160149 bytes, checksum: 64c6c16fe2c791250de43b5aac4c24b5 (MD5) S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf.txt: 21542 bytes, checksum: fdf0db53f93406566a9574701b02b0db (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T15:07:55Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf: 160149 bytes, checksum: 64c6c16fe2c791250de43b5aac4c24b5 (MD5) S1519-566X2008000200012.pdf.txt: 21542 bytes, checksum: fdf0db53f93406566a9574701b02b0db (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-04-01 Para avaliar o comportamento de oviposição da mosca-branca, Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) biótipo B, em relação à posição da folha na planta, à área do limbo foliar, à idade da planta e à densidade de adultos na cultura do pimentão, foram realizados três testes, utilizando-se a cultivar de pimentão Magali-R. Os testes foram realizados em casa-de-vegetação e no Laboratório de Entomologia da DEFERS/UNESP, Campus de Ilha Solteira-SP. Nos testes com chance de escolha, plantas com 25, 30, 35, 40 e 45 dias de idade foram utilizadas para avaliar os efeitos da idade sobre a oviposição da mosca-branca, enquanto que em plantas com 35 dias estudou-se a distribuição de ovos da mosca-branca na planta e no limbo foliar. em plantas de 35 dias de idade, avaliou-se o efeito de diferentes densidades populacionais do inseto (50, 100, 150, 200 e 250 adultos/ planta) sobre o número de ovos depositados. No teste sem chance de escolha, utilizaram-se plantas com 35 dias de idade para avaliar o efeito das densidades sobre a oviposição da mosca-branca. B. tabaci biótipo B preferiu ovipositar da terceira a sexta folha a partir do ápice da planta localizadas nos terços médio e superior de planta de pimentão e nas áreas do limbo foliar localizadas nos lóbulos direito e esquerdo, próximas à base da folha. Plantas com 40 e 45 dias, são preferidas para oviposição e, em densidades de 200 e 250 adultos por planta, as moscas-brancas depositam ovos em número suficiente para diferenciar genótipos de pimentão com diferentes graus resistência a esta praga. Bemisia tabaci (Gen.) biotype B is considered a pest of economical importance for several vegetables. The oviposition behaviour of the whilefly was evaluated in sweet pepper plants. The trials were carried out under greenhouse condition and in the Laboratory of Entomology of DEFERS/UNESP, Campus of Ilha Solteira-SP, with the sweet pepper Magali-R genotype. The effect of plant age on the whitefly oviposition was evaluated in free-choice tests, in plants, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45-day-old, as egg distribution in the plant and on the leaf blade was evaluated in 35-days-old plants. In a no-choice tests, 35-day-old plants were used to evaluate the effect of the densities of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 adults per plant on the number of eggs laid by insects. The silverleaf whitefly preferred to oviposit on the third to sixth leaflets, of the medium and superior part of plants of sweet pepper; the leaf blade areas, located in the lobes right and left close the base of the leaf were the preferential site for whitefly oviposition. Older plants, 40- and 45-day-old, were preferentially used for oviposition, and 200 and 250 adults per plant were both enough to lay a number of eggs that allowed to differentiate among sweet pepper genotypes with different whitefly resistance levels. UNESP Depto. Fitossanidade, Engenharia Rural e Solos UNESP Depto. Fitossanidade, Engenharia Rural e Solos

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2014-02-26T17:18:38Z No. of bitstreams: 1 WOS000207598500117.pdf: 125578 bytes, checksum: f23784509b5145151384822b66dac65a (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-02-26T17:18:38Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 WOS000207598500117.pdf: 125578 bytes, checksum: f23784509b5145151384822b66dac65a (MD5) Previous issue date: 2007-01-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T15:27:07Z No. of bitstreams: 1 WOS000207598500117.pdf: 125578 bytes, checksum: f23784509b5145151384822b66dac65a (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T15:27:07Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 WOS000207598500117.pdf: 125578 bytes, checksum: f23784509b5145151384822b66dac65a (MD5) Previous issue date: 2007-01-01 The objective of this work was to estimate the correlations among measurements taken in vivo with ultrasound equipment with some carcass traits measured after slaughter. Twenty eight Mediterranean bulls, with average shrunk body weight of 330 kg and 14 months of age, were fed by 120 days with high concentrate diets. The shrunk body weight, the ribeye area (REAU), the back fat thickness (FTU) over the Longissimus dorsi muscle between 12(a) and 13(a) ribs and rump fat (EGP8U), were measured at 28 days intervals. Real-time ultrasound equipment Piemedical Scanner 200 VET, with 18 cm linear array transducer was utilized. After the slaughter, the hot carcass weight (PCQ) and the kidney, pelvic and inguinal fat (GRPI) were weighted and the dressing percentage (DP) calculated. After 24 hours of cooling the ribeye area (REAC), backfat thickness (FTC) and rump fat (EGP8C) were measured. Both the REAC, FTC and EGP8C were underestimated by ultrasound measurements. The Pearson correlation coefficients for ribeye area, backfat thickness and rump fat measured in the carcass and with ultrasound, were 0.96, 0.99 and 0.91, respectively. The coefficient between DP and REAU was 0.47; 0.45 between DP and REAC, 0.56 between DP and FTU and 0.58 between DP and FTC. DP presented a 0.59 correlation coefficient with EGP8U. The Spearman correlation was estimated between REAU and REAC, FTU and FTC, EGP8U and EGP8C, and the values were 0.96, 0.99 and 0.91,respectively. The ultrasound measures could be used to estimate carcass traits in buffaloes with good accuracy. São Paulo State Univ, Sch Vet Med & Anim Sci, Dept Anim Prod, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil São Paulo State Univ, Sch Vet Med & Anim Sci, Dept Anim Prod, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil

Previous studies on infection of Trypanosoma cruzi in the Poço das Antas Biological Reserve population of wild free-ranging Leontopithecus rosalia have shown the presence of genotype T. cruzi II, associated in Brazil with human disease. Herein, this study has been extended, the infection being evaluated in L. rosalia of 3 different tamarin populations, inhabiting distinct forest areas located in the same Atlantic Coastal Rainforest. Edentata, Marsupialia, Rodentia and Chiroptera were examined exclusively in the Poço das Antas Biological Reserve. Excluding Chiroptera, T. cruzi infection was found in all orders. Biochemical and molecular characterization demonstrated that golden lion tamarins maintained stable infections by T. cruzi II. The isolates from the other mammals corresponded to T. cruzi I, suggesting independent transmission cycles occurring among the sylvatic mammals inside Poço das Antas Biological Reserve. Significant differences in the infection patterns presented by the 3 populations of wild and captive-born golden lion tamarins were noticed. In Poço das Antas a considerably higher number of positive haemocultures from tamarins with positive serological titres was observed in comparison to those obtained from other areas. The implications for conservation and public health of an active sylvatic cycle in the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest of Rio de Janeiro are discussed.

An extended survey of nodulation of legume trees from South-East Brazilian forests was conducted. Six new species from the Caesalpinioideae, 23 from the Mimosoideae and 27 from the Papilionoideae are reported to have nodules. Nitrogenase activity (acetylene reduction) was tested for all nodules and rhizobia were isolated from the most active.

The non-stimulated and endotoxin-stimulated qualitative nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) test was carried out in children with protein-calorie malnutrition (kwashiorkor and marasmic kwashiorkor) before during and after a 30-day period nutritional recovery. The NBT test was done on admission and 1 2 and 4 weeks later. Most PCM children exhibited a significant increase in NBT-positive cells on admission when compared to the controls; few PCM children exhibited a decrease in NBT-positive cells with or without endotoxin stimulation. After 30 days of nutritional recovery the non-stimulated NBT test showed a fall in NBT-positive cells for the PCM group with results similar to those for the control group (well nourished children). No correlation was found between the results of the NBT test on admission and the incidence of infectious diseases. On the basis of these data a basic fault in the phagocytosis system is suggested to occur in some PCM children.