Newsletter - Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences

ISSUE 34

AABC - Volume 91. 3 - September 2019

The present issue of the Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences (AABC) has a record of papers: 67. Most contributions are related to Biological (25) and Agrarian Sciences (17), followed by Health (9) and Engineering Sciences (6). Papers on other areas can also be found, including Earth (4), Mathematical (3), Biomedical (2) and Social Sciences (1).

As usual, it is hard to choose the highlights. In Engineering Sciences, there are studies ranging from the dynamics of phosphorus in the sewage of high polluted urban areas to ultrasonic pretreatment of carrot slices - showing the increasing interdisciplinarity of projects nowadays.

Agrarian Sciences, an area that continues to grow in terms of submission and publication rates at the AABC, present papers addressing models of tree biomass estimations, the relation between microclimatic conditions of canopy strata and its influence on the soybean cultivation, studies on cassava germplasm, pest control regarding guava orchards, orchid seeds and much more.

In Health Sciences there are studies addressing maceration of cannabis for the extraction of cannabidiol and other substances, and how aerobic exercises might be helpful in attempts to repair neurological functions.

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

We are now inviting you to scroll through the text and click on the title of the article that interests you!

Alexander W. A. Kellner
Editor-in-Chief

MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

1- Singular surfaces of revolution with prescribed unbounded mean curvature
Authors: Luciana F. Martins, Kentaro Saji, Samuel P. dos Santos and Keisuke Teramoto

We give an explicit formula for singular surfaces of revolution with prescribed unbounded mean curvature. Using this mean curvature, we give conditions for certain types of singularities of those surfaces. Periodicity of that surface is also discussed.

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2- The Generalized Odd Lindley-G Family: Properties and Applications
Authors: Ahmed Z. Afify, Gauss M. Cordeiro, Mohamed E. Maed, Morad Alizadeh, Hazem Al-Mofleh and Zohdy M. Nofal

We introduce a new class of continuous distributions called the generalized odd Lindley-G family. Four special models of the new family are provided. Some explicit expressions for the quantile and generating functions, ordinary and incomplete moments, order statistics and Rényi and Shannon entropies are derived. The maximum likelihood method is used for estimating the model parameters. The flexibility of the generated family is illustrated by means of two applications to real data sets.

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3- Improved Bayes estimators and prediction for the Wilson-Hilferty distribution
Authors: Pedro L. Ramos, Marco P. Almeida, Vera L.D. Tomazella and Francisco Louzada

In this paper, we study the mathematical properties and shapes of the Wilson-Hilferty distribution. We proposed a Bayesian approach to obtain efficient estimates of the parameters indexing the distribution in the presence of complete or censored data, with low computational cost. Further, we also proposed a Bayesian procedure to obtain predictions of future observations. Finally, the usefulness of the proposed method is illustrated in three real datasets.

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EARTH SCIENCES

4- Experimental study of the kinetics of the adsorption of nitrogen by coal containing different amounts of water
Authors: Ni Xiaoming, Zedong Liu, Wei Jianping and Yongchao Zhao

In this work, a coal–adsorption gas experimental system is used to investigate the adsorption of nitrogen by coal samples containing different amounts of water and different pressures. The adsorption rate constant, k, reflects the rate at which the gas can get into the pores of different sizes in the coal a greater k value, implies a greater increment in the rate. Also, the greater the water content, the smaller the value of k for a given initial pressure. As the moisture content continues to increase, the k value tends to a certain value.

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5- Trace metals and PAHs in topsoils of the University campus in the megacity of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Christine L.M. Bourotte, Lucy E. Sugauara, Mary R.R. de Marchi, Carlos E. Souto-Oliveira

The city of São Paulo is one of the world's largest cities (66% of its area is urbanized). The occurrence and distribution of metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban soils are still little known. This study discusses the concentration values, distribution and sources of these compounds in the topsoils of the University Campus. Traffic sources of metals and PAHs are related to exhaust and non-exhaust emissions such as abrasion of brakes, tires, car components and dust re-suspension with soil contribution. Traffic intensity, predominant wind direction, vegetation cover and road slope also control spatial distribution of concentrations.

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6- Ethiopian muscids (Diptera, Muscidae) egg-carriers of Stylogaster Macquart (Diptera, Conopidae)
Authors: Márcia S. Couri, Kurt Jordaens, Lore Geeraert, Rafael Matheus and Angelina P. Vieira-Araújo

Stylogaster nitens Brunetti, Stylogaster westwoodi Smith and Stylogaster sp. (Diptera, Conopidae) are recorded for the first time in Etiopia. We screened 908 muscid flies (Diptera, Muscidae) for the presence of impaled eggs of Stylogaster and recorded eggs on 89 individuals (9.8%) of the species: Limnophora translucida Stein, Musca lusoria Wiedemann, Musca splendens Pont, Neomyia chrysopyga (Emden), Pseudohelina nigritarsis (Jaennicke), Stomoxys omega Newstead, Stomoxys taeniatus Bigot and Stomoxys varipes (Bezzi). The maximum number of eggs found on a single muscid was six. L. translucida, M. lusoria, M. splendens, N. chrysopyga and S. varipes are reported as new muscid hosts species for Stylogaster.

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7- Salinity and stable oxygen isotope relationship in the Southwestern Atlantic: constraints to paleoclimate reconstructions
Authors: Andre L. Belem, Camilla Caricchio,  Ana Luiza S. Albuquerque, Igor M. Venancio, Maria do R. Zucchi, Tarcio Henrique R. dos Santos and Yaci Gallo Alvarez

This study improves the isotopic δ¹⁸O_sw signatures for the Western Tropical South Atlantic using 93 new seawater samples collected between 25°S and 5°N. We found a strong correlation between δ¹⁸O_sw and δD, as well as a significant association between δ¹⁸O_sw  and the salinity vertical distribution, related to seasonal changes in the transport of the western boundary currents.  We also demonstrate the seasonal variation pattern of δ¹⁸O_sw and salinity relationship that might lead to paleosalinity differences of up to 0.2 between Summer and Winter. In this case, an intermediate Salinity: δ¹⁸O_sw Mixing Line for the Southwestern Atlantic was proposed to reduce the estimate errors associated with these seasonal fluctuations.

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BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

8- Saprobic conidial fungi associated with palm leaf litter in eastern Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Josiane S. Monteiro, Priscila S.M. Sarmento and Helen M.P. Sotão

Fungi are important components of litter decomposition in forest ecosystems, acting in nutrient cycling. This group is still undersampled in the Amazon biome, especially microscopic taxa such as conidial fungi. The present study provides novel data about fungi from the Amapá National Forest, an important conservation unit located in Northern Brazil. Many species were associated to the decomposition of palm leaf litter. New occurrences of several conidial fungi, including some uncommon species, were recorded. The obtained data emphasizes the importance of preserving forests ecosystems in view of the hidden diversity of fungi that need yet to be found.

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9- In vitro antioxidant, DNA-damaged protection and antiproliferative activities of ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts of Centaurea sphaerocephala L.
Authors: Amina M. Lahneche, Ratiba Boucheham, Tevfik Ozen, Muhammed Altun, Nassima Boubekri, Ibrahim Demirtas, Sabrina Bicha, Ali Bentamene, Fadila Benayache, Samir Benayache and Djamila Zama

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antiproliferative and inhibition of oxidative DNA-damage activities of n-butanol (n-BuOH) extract of Centaurea sphaerocephala. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and the n-BuOH extracts of this plant were also assayed. The contents of total phenolics and flavonoids were measured. The EtOAc and the n-BuOH extracts of C. sphaerocephala showed strong antioxidant activity on scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and had high phenolic and flavonoid contents. The n-BuOH extract inhibited lipid peroxidation and  antiproliferative activity against Hela cell lines (human cervix carcinoma). This plant may be a promising plant material.

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10- A retrospective analysis of scientific production on the deep sea from 1987 to 2016
Authors: Harry Boos, Charles Rodrigues and Paula B. Araujo

The deep sea remains the least known biome. Despite this fact, anthropic activities have affected these regions in various ways. The objective of this study was to outline the scientific production scenario based on deep sea research and to analyze trends present in the literature. Between 1987 and 2016, 11,079 articles on the deep sea were published. The description of new species and the analysis of the effects of climate change appear to be emerging trends in deep sea research. Mining continues to be primarily responsible for driving the development of deep sea research.

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11- Contrasting life-histories in two syntopic amphibians of Leptodactylus fuscus group (Heyer 1978)
Authors: Federico Marangoni, Azul Courtis, Jose M. Piñeiro, María Del Rosario Ingaramo, Rodrigo Cajade and Florina Stănescu

We used skeletochronology (age assessment from bone sections) to explain the life-strategies (i.e., resource allocation to growth and reproduction) that allow two similar frogs - Leptodactylus bufonius and L. latinasus to coexist in the same habitats from the wet Chaco, northern Argentina. We found that L. bufonius lives longer, grows larger and has a higher reproductive output than L. latinasus. These differences might arise during larval or juvenile stages, L. bufonius growing faster before sexual maturity. Since L. bufonius is a better competitor than L. latinasus, their coexistence is probably mediated through subtle differences in microhabitat use.

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12- High cellulolytic activities in filamentous fungi isolated from an extreme oligotrophic subterranean environment (Catão cave) in Brazil
Authors: Caio C.P. de Paula, Quimi V. Montoya, Lucas A. Meirelles, Cristiane S. Farinas, André Rodrigues and Mirna H.R. Seleghim

Cellulolytic fungal strains isolated from a Brazilian cave were evaluated for their enzymatic production. After submerged fermentation, three strains were selected for their enzymatic activities:  Aspergillus ustus for endoglucanase, Talaromyces bruneus for β-glucosidase and Aspergillus sp. for total cellulase. These strains showed better yields compared to the reference strain after solid-state fermentation, and Aspergillus sp. stood out as a new species that expressed activity of total cellulases. These isolated strains have a promising cellulolytic enzyme complex that can be used in fermentation and saccharification processes. Our study highlights the benefits of cave environments exploitation to find new potentially valuable strains.

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13- Evaluating antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity of endemic Phlomis russeliana from Turkey and its antiploriferative effect on Human Caco-2 Cell Lines
Authors: Merve Alpay, Gorkem Dulger, Ibrahim E. Sahin and Basaran Dulger

The endemic plants of Lamiaceae family are aromatic, mediterranean origin. It has been used in traditional treatment for centuries for the protection of diseases and to protect against diseases. Because of include poliphenols, have many beneficial properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antitumoral. Our aim was to show P. russeliana functions in biological systems. P. russeliana has induced antiproliferative activity on colon cancer cells without toxic effects. Moreover, it decreased the oxidant capacity while expecting antioxidant level increasement. P. russeliana have also tested on yeast and bacterial cultures. This molecule determinated higher effect on yeast strains compare known bacterial strains.

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14- Bioactive micro-constituents of ackee arilli (Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig)
Authors: Carlos D. Grande-Tovar, Johannes Delgado-Ospina, Luisa F. Puerta, Gloria C. Rodríguez, Giampiero Sacchetti, Antonello Paparella and Clemencia Chaves-López

Ackee (Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig) is an exotic fruit widely consumed in the Caribbean countries. We studied phenol, ascorbic acid, hypoglycin A, squalene, D: A-Friedooleanan-7-ol, (7.alpha.) oleic acid content, antioxidant potential, and volatile compounds as a function of the maturation process. A reduction in hypoglycin A, ascorbic acid, and total polyphenols during the maturation process were observed while oleic acid, squalene, and D: A-Friedooleanan-7-ol, (7.alpha.) contents increased with advancing maturity. Solid phase microextraction (SPME) and (GC/MS) analysis revealed more than 50 compounds. The results suggested that ripe ackee arilli could serve as a significant source of natural bioactive micro-constituents.

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15- Candida albicans Clinical Isolates from a Southwest Brazilian Tertiary Hospital Exhibit MFS-mediated Azole Resistance Profile
Authors: Ana Carolina C. Pinto, Debora A.S. Rocha, Daniel C. de Moraes, Maria L. Junqueira and Antonio Ferreira-Pereira

Candida albicans is the most frequent fungal species that causes infections in humans. Fluconazole is the main antifungal used for the treatment of Candida infections. However, its prolonged use for the last decades originated resistant strains. Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) proteins are one of the responsible for the Multidrug Resistance (MDR) phenotype. Susceptibility analysis of Candida albicans strains isolated from a Brazilian hospital demonstrated that all clinical strains were resistant to azole drugs. Data obtained from flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy experiments showed that the strains may be resistant to antifungals due to the overexpression of MFS transporters.

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16- Life History Parameters of Genypterus brasiliensis (Teleostei: Ophidiidae), an Endemic Fisheries Resource of the Southwestern Atlantic
Authors: Acácio R.G. Tomás, Celso L. Eleuterio and Gonzalo Velasco

The pink cusk-eel Genypterus brasiliensis, a demersal fish of large size (up to 1 m of total length), is an endemic species of the southwest Atlantic. Besides the high quality of its flesh, it was poor studied concerning its life history. Data from commercial and scientific cruises allowed identifying distinct estimates between females (larger) and males as growth parameters and longevity. The low biological production allied to the slow growth and a late complete maturation and also its endemism, classify G. brasiliensis as a vulnerable resource, and so a precautionary management must be considered. 

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17- Morphological variation of Aplectana hylambatis (Nematoda: Cosmocercidae) from different anuran hosts and localities in Argentina
Authors: Cynthya E. González, Valeria I. Gómez and Monika I. Hamann

Intraspecific variation acts in the same way on all animals, both free-living (whether predators, herbivores or scavengers) or parasites. Variations in the presence/absence, form, number and type, arrangement, and measurements of different structures have been studied in numerous groups of parasites. Specifically, in helminths of anuran hosts, morphological variations have been studied in monogeneans and in digeneans principally in the Northern hemisphere. In this context, the present study shows the intraspecific variations of 401 specimens of Aplectana hylambatis (Ascaridida, Cosmocercidae), a generalist nematode with a wide geographical distribution, analysed in five host species from seven localities from Argentina.

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18- First record of Fanniidae (Diptera) from New Caledonia
Authors: Marcia Couri and Viviane R. Sousa

The family Fanniidae is newly recorded to New Caledonia. The material studied is deposited in Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris, France. Adult male and female of Fannia capitalis Pont, originally described from Australian Capital Territory (Black Mountain) and New South Wales are illustrated, as well as the peculiar male terminalia, the female ovipositor, and the egg. Male phallic process and egg are described for the first time in this paper.

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19- Plant Bugs Predators (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae) with References to Arthropods and Fungi in Brazil
Authors: Bárbara C.F. Nogueira, Paulo S.F. Ferreira, Lívia A. Coelho, David S. Martins and Bárbara D. Barcellos

The great ecological importance of plant bugs makes them relevante to agricultural crops as insect pests or as biological control agents. However, their habits of predation are not deeply well-known because of their high diversity in many zoogeographic and possibility of diferente feeding behaviors. For this reason, the article aims to contribute to the knowledge about these arthropods to possibility the use of them as biological control agentes.

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20- Description of a second known Liotyphlops caissara specimen (Serpentes: Anomalepididae)
Authors: Arthur D. Abegg, Weverton S. Azevedo, Francisco L. Franco and Marcelo  R. Duarte

We recorded a second specimen of the poorly known insular blind snake Liotyphlops caissara. This new specimen expands the morphological variation of the number of dorsal scales in the genus Liotyphlops to 296 (vs. 304 in L. wilderi). Considering that the holotype of this species was destroyed, the present specimen represents the only available L. caissara individual in zoological collections. This new record constitutes the first out of type locality and expands the distribution of the species in about 40km to the northwest. We suggest that L. caissara be included in the “Endangered” category (IUCN criteria (B1a, b [iii])).

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21- Identification of a novel plant-derived attractant for Acromyrmex lobicornis leaf-cutting ants
Authors: Andrea M. Alma, Patricia  C. Fernandez, Daiana Perri and Micaela Buteler

Leaf-cutting ants are considered major pests of agriculture and forestry in the Neotropics. Attractive toxic baits are the prevailing method for managing them. Thus, there is great interest in identifying attractants to incorporate into these baits. We found a novel attractant for the leaf-cutting ants Acromyrmex lobicornis: heptyl butyrate a volatile compound found in fresh apples and plums. Even, its attractiveness is comparable to orange pulp, the most commonly used attractant. Therefore, it could be added to toxic baits to manage A. lobicornis.

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22- The rare genus Leptofoenus Smith, 1862 (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae, Leptofoeninae): new records, and aspects of its distribution
Authors: Daniell R.R. Fernandes, Ricardo Kawada and Marcelo T. Tavares

In this paper, we expand the distribution range extension of three species of Leptofoenus Smith, 1862, a rarely collected genus of Chalcidoidea: Leptofoenus howardi (Ashmead, 1895) was reported for the first time in Minas Gerais and Rondônia, Leptofoenus stephanoides (Roman, 1920) for Rondônia, Espírito Santo and São Paulo and Leptofoenus westwoodi (Ashmead, 1895) for Roraima, Amazonas, Rondônia, Bahia, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul. We are also including some comments about distribution and biology of this genus.

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23-First detection of the cosmopolitan invader Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera: Coreidae) in Argentina
Authors: Marcelo E. Kun and Maité Masciocchi

This work reports a first sight of Leptoglossus occidentalis on pine plantations in Argentina. This bug is a conifer seed bug native from North America. In last years the insect has been found in many countries of the world and most recently (2017) in Chile. Leptoglossus occidentalis is a cosmopolitan invader with noticeable impact over conifer species; its negative impact on invaded area can be predicted. Here we point out morphological traits to a fast recognition.

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24- Alterations in the Transcriptional Profile of the Liver Tissue and the Therapeutic Effects of Propolis Extracts in Alcohol-induced Steatosis in Rats
Authors: Manhong Ye, Mengting Xu, Chao Ji, Jian Ji, Fubiao Ji, Wanhong Wei, Shengmei Yang and Bin Zhou

Hepatoprotective effects of the ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEP) on alcohol-induced liver steatosis were investigated in male Wistar rats developed with chronic alcoholic fatty liver. Four-week treatment of EEP helped to restore the levels of various serum indices and the histopathology of the liver. Results from microarray analysis revealed that the hepatic expressions of genes involved in lipogenesis and fatty acids oxidation were significantly down- and up-regulated, respectively, due to the treatment of EEP. The ability of EEP to reduce the negative effects of alcohol on liver makes propolis potentially useful for the alternative treatment of alcoholic fatty liver.

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25- Molecular identification of a cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase-producing microorganism and phylogenetic assessment of enzymatic activities
Authors: Soledad Caminata Landriel, Julieta D.L.M. Castillo, Oscar A. Taboga, Susana A. Ferrarotti, Alexandra M. Gottlieb and Hernán Costa

Cyclodextrin glycosyltransferases (CGTases) are key bacterial enzymes that convert starch into oligosaccharides, which are used in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The CGTases are classified according to their product specificity in α-, β-, α/β- and γ-CGTases. We employed six housekeeping molecular markers to test the identification of a CGTase-producing bacterial strain in a phylogenetic context, and to assess the phylogenetic relationship of CGTases along bacterial evolution. The query strain was identified as Paenibacillus barengoltzii, and a complex origin for CGTase types was unveiled, in which α-CGTases may represent the ancestral type, and the γ-CGTase may have derived from β-CGTases.

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26-Evidences of self planting propagules of Rhizophora mangle L.
Author: Nanuza L. de Menezes

Nineteenth century authors demonstrated not only the vivipary of Rhizophora mangle L. but also that the embryo (as propagule) resembles a spear and in falling from the tree plants itself in the wet mangrove soil below. However, twentieth and twenty first century authors regarded the description of "self-planting" propagules as unacceptable. In the present study we demonstrate not only that the propagules can plant themselves after falling, but also that when they are carried along by the high tide the propagules may float vertically and can plant themselves by abrasion as the tide ebbs.

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27- Inhibition of growth of U87MG human glioblastoma cells by Usnea longissima Ach.
Authors: Bugrahan Emsen, Ozlem Ozdemir, Tubanur Engin, Basak Togar, Seyda Cavusoglu and Hasan Turkez

The herbal complementary treatment process against glioblastoma, which has a critical place among cancer types, is of great importance. Usnea longissima Ach. lichen is the core of intense research for the understanding and the utilization of their biological properties in naturally produced pharmaceuticals. Anti-proliferative, oxidative and genotoxic effects of U. longissima water extract on primary mixed glial-neuronal non-cancerous and human glioblastoma U87MG cells were not previously explored. U. longissima water extract inhibited the growth of glioblastoma in vitro. The obtained data indicate that U. longissima may act as a novel bio resource for naturally occurring antioxidant therapies.

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28- Distribution and habitat preference of Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera in subtropical mountain streams: implications for monitoring and conservation
Authors: Romina E. Principe, Javier A. Márquez and Luciana Cibils-Martina

Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera assemblages were different at the habitat level in mountain streams of central Argentina. The most important variables affecting distribution patterns were substrate and flow type, but macroalgae and organic matter were also important predictors. Riffles maintained the highest richness but when considering only Ephemeroptera, fine substrate runs emerged also as an important habitat.  Our study provided valuable ecological information related to habitat preference of taxa with a key role in stream functioning and of great usefulness for the monitoring of lotic systems.

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29- Comparative study on biodegradation of chlorpyrifos-methyl by Bacillus megaterium CM-Z19 and Pseudomonas syringae CM-Z6
Authors:  Jiangwei Zhu, Yan Zhao and  Honghua Ruan

Strains CM-Z19 and CM-Z6 capable of degrading chlorpyrifos-methyl (CM) were isolated from soil. Both strains had high phosphoesterase activity and could degrade CM and various organophosphorus pesticides. The phosphoesterase activity of two strains was positively correlated with their degradation ability. CM-Z19 had higher phosphoesterase activity than CM-Z6. However CM-Z19 could not degrade TCP (first hydrolysis metabolite of CM), and the accumulation of TCP in the degradation was not conducive to further degradation of CM. Since CM-Z6 could effectively degrade TCP, it could degrade CM faster than CM-Z19. Therefore, it was necessary to pay attention to the degradation of intermediate metabolites.

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30-Molecular characterization of the invasive aquatic macrophyte Hydrilla verticillata (Hydrocharitaceae) in Brazil
Authors: Léia Carolina Lucio, Sidinei M. Thomaz, Sônia Maria A.P. Prioli, Talge A. Boni, Alessandra V. de Oliveira and Alberto José Prioli

The variability genetic of Hydrilla verticillata in different ecosystems of Brazil was determinated using trnL-trnF region. This macrophyte was recorded by the first time in South America ca. 12 years ago and has been considered one of the main weeds all over the world and it attracts great attention of ecologists and environmental managers. Molecular homogeneity within and between populations was detected which supposes the hypothesis that a single founder genotype introduction of hydrilla in the Upper Paraná, in Brazil.

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31-Isoenzyme and molecular approach for authenticating and monitoring of animal cell Lines
Authors: Shirley B. de Araújo, Giancarlo F. Patricio, Isabela C. Simoni, Eliana B. Rivas and Maria Judite B. Fernandes

Given the extensive and important applicability of cell lines in biomedical research, techniques must be employed to ensure their species identification (authentication) and to validate their data. This study improved the isoenzyme electrophoretic analysis, as well as tested two molecular methods targeted at mtDNA for confirming the species identity of cell lines. All cell lines had isoenzymatic mobility of three dehydrogenases corresponding to their species and distinguishing from each other. We also validated one molecular technique following the recent standard method of animal cell line authentication (the DNA barcoding method) that use one of genes studied (cox I).

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32-Seroprevalence of Zika virus among blood donors before the epidemic in Barranquilla, Colombia, 2015-2016
Authors: Brayan Bayona-Pacheco, Jorge Acosta-Reyes, Edgar Navarro, Homero San-Juan, Johan Bula and Hernando Baquero

The first cases of Zika virus infection in Colombia were reported and confirmed in October 2015. The aim of the study was estimate the seroprevalence of ZIKV infection in blood bank samples during the pre-epidemic phase in Barranquilla, Colombia, and demonstrate the presence of virus before the Colombian Ministry of Health confirmed the first case. The results obtained in our study suggest that ZIKV was in circulation before the date reported by the governmental organizations. As such, this means that the period of analysis of newborns with microcephaly or any other congenital central nervous system alteration should be retrospectively extended.

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BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

33- Resveratrol and resveratrol-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complex recovered the changes of creatine kinase and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activities found in the spleen from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Jenifer Kolling, Janaína Kolling, Itiane D. de Franceschi, Vivian S.K. Nishihira,  Matheus D. Baldissera, Cláudia G. Pinto, Nathana J. Mezzomo, Guilherme M. do Carmo, Luciane R. Feksa, Liana S. Fernandes, Gilberto Orengo, Rodrigo A. Vaucher, Janice L. Giongo, Angela T.S. Wyse, Clovis M.D. Wannmacher and Virginia C. Rech

The spleen is a secondary lymphoid organ involved in the type 1 diabetes pathogenesis. Because this disease is a complex cellular process resulting in selective destruction of β-cells, more studies are required for a better understanding about splenic bioenergetics. Here, enzymes of phosphoryl transfer network, and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity were examined in the presence of resveratrol, and resveratrol-hydroxypropil-β-cyclodextrin complex against hyperglycemia-induced in the spleen of rats. Resveratrol and its complex recovered the changes of creatine kinase and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activities, suggesting that resveratrol supplementation could be beneficial to improve the functioning of the spleen in hyperglycemia.

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34- Antifibrotic effects of total or partial application of amniotic membrane in hepatic fibrosis
Authors: Karina M. Mamede and Luciana B. Sant'Anna

This study demonstrated that human AM, when applied to the liver, covering it either totally or partially, acted in the repair of liver fibrosis. However, the AM patch applied around only a portion of the liver was more efficient in reducing the severity / degree of fibrosis and decreasing the content of collagen deposition in the hepatic tissue. This can be explained by the lower handling of AM patch improving preservation of the smaller fragment. These findings are an important occurrence, highlighting the AM capacity of avoid progression of biliary fibrosis to the final stage of the disease, liver cirrhosis

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HEALTH SCIENCES

35- Chemical Constituents and Pharmacology properties of Aristolochia triangularis: a south brazilian highly-consumed botanical with multiple bioactivities
Authors: Simone Q. Oliveira, Jadel M. Kratz, Vitor C. Chaves, Tatiana R. Guimarães, Danielle T.M. Costa, Sapfo Dimitrakoudi, Argyro Vontzalidou, Sérgio A.L. Nordignon, Cesar P. Simionato, Mário Steindel, Flávio H. Reginatto, Cláudia M.O. Simões and Eloir P. Schenkel

Aristolochia triangularis Cham., is one of the most frequently used medicinal plant in Southern Brazil, considered as a panacea. Extracts, fractions and the isolated compounds (-) cubebin and the  lignan (+) galbacin were screened for antiproliferative, antimicrobial, antiherpes and antileishmanial activities. Our results suggest that these compounds, individually, are not responsible for the detected in vitro bioactivities. Additionally, the presence of aristolochic acid I and  aristolochic acid II in the crude ethanol extracts   was investigated, and the HPLC analysis of these extracts did not display any peak with retention time or UV spectra comparable to aristolochic acids I and II. 

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36- Deoxyribonucleic acid damage and repair response in the chemotherapy of lung cancer: cross-sectional study
Authors: Marcia R. Schneider, Andréa L.G. da Silva, Cássia L. Goulart, Paloma  B. Schneiders, Augusto F. Weber, Lia G. Possuelo and Andreia R.M. Valim

In this study, we evaluated patients with lung cancer (CA) and individuals with no disease nor family history (CO). The DNA damage was assessed as well the DNA repair capacity. We observed patients with lung cancer are mostly men, former smokers and with more than 15 years of tobacco consumption, undergoing chemotherapy, have high rates of DNA damage and deficiency in their ability to repair against induced damage when compared to individuals with no disease.

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37- System-Pharmacology Dissection of Traditional Chinese herbs SINI Decoction for Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Zhiming Shu, Tiantian Wu, Mohamed Shahen, Zihu Guo, Jia Shu, He Wang, Akhtar H. Shar, Mayada R. Farag, Mahmoud Alagawany, Mohamed E. Adb El-Hack and Chaobin Liu

The mechanisms behind traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) SINI Decoction (SND) for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are systematically studied. Systems pharmacology including:1) molecular database building; 2) ADME evaluation; 3) target-fishing 4) network construction and analysis are taken in this work. 78 underlying valid ingredients and their corresponding 71 direct targets of SND were obtained. Taking Systems pharmacology to investigate the molecular mechanisms of TCM through pharmacokinetic evaluation target prediction and pathway analysis will facilitate the development of traditional Chinese herbs in modern medicine.

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38- Chymotrypsin- and trypsin-like activities secreted by the multidrug-resistant yeasts forming the Candida haemulonii complex
Authors: Xênia M. Souto, Marta S. Branquinha and André L.S. Santos

Fungi belonging to the Candida haemulonii complex have emerged as notorious yeasts causing invasive infections with high rates of treatment failures due to the multidrug-resistance profile. Very little is known about the virulence factors produced by C. haemulonii species. In the present study, we reported the secretion of serine-type peptidases, presenting different biochemical properties, by C. haemulonii species. Serine peptidases are well-known key molecules produced by several pathogenic fungi, helping them during different phases of the infectious process. So, our data open the doors for more detailed studies into potential roles of serine peptidases in C. haemulonii species complex virulence.

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39- Screening for FMR1 expanded alleles in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Manaus, Northern Brazil
Authors: Jorge F.B. Ferreira, Jacqueline S. Batista and Cleiton Fantin

In this work, we searched for dynamic mutations in the FMR1 gene in male patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the city of Manaus, Brazil, given that this gene is related to Fragile X-Syndrome, whose main symptoms are autistic-like behaviors. Only 8 out of 90 patients presented expanded alleles with clinical significance: 4 grey-zone mutations and 4 premutations. Several studies have shown that premutated alleles are related to the late onset Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. This study contributes with epidemiological data once few molecular analyses have been carried out so far with the Brazilian autistic population.

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40- Ulinastatin attenuates vascular endothelial cell damage in pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia
Authors: Zhiqiang Yu, Jianbo Wang, Peijun Zhang and Wei Ding

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific systemic vascular disorder and is often accompanied by life-threatening events. One of the most important factors in the pathogenesis of hypertension in pregnancy is systemic endothelial activation and dysfunction, and endothelial cell dysfunction is a hallmark of PE. Von Willebrand factor (vWF) is an important glycoprotein in the regulation of hemostasis and its level increases when vascular endothelial cells are injured. Ulinastatin is a serine protease inhibitor, we found ulinastatin decreased plasma concentrations of vWF and attenuated vascular endothelial cell damage in pregnant women with PE, and it alleviated endothelial cell damage likely by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators.

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41- Human Heat stress risk prediction in the Brazilian semiarid Region based on the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature
Authors: Beatriz Fátima A. de Oliveira, Ismael Henrique Silveira, Renato C. Feitosa, Marco Aurélio P. Horta, Washington L. Junger and Sandra Hacon

The aim of this study is to map thermal stress risks for human health at the São Francisco River Basin (SFRB) in the Semiarid region, for climatic scenarios RCP 4.5 and 8.5. The projections show that for the pessimistic scenario practically all municipalities of the SFRB region can reach values of Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) that indicate a high risk for heat stress in the period 2071-2099. These results show that, if the emission of greenhouse gases continues in the present proportions, some municipalities of the SFRB region may present a high risk for heat stress affecting the work capacity and the practice of physical exercises.

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42- Aerobic exercise repairs neurological function after cerebral ischaemia by regulating the nitric oxide
Authors: Lei Sun, Lv-Ping Zhuang and Wei-Feng Wu

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of aerobic exercise in reducing neurological deficits and cerebral ischaemia and to examine the mechanisms of post-neural cell repair. This study concluded that Aerobic exercise can promote the expression of NOS, mainly in eNOS, which can protect nerve cells, enhance blood circulation in local ischaemic areas and thus promote nerve repair. In contrast, exhaustive exercise promotes overexpression of NO and NOS, resulting in local neurotoxicity. These findings are very important to the application of appropriate exercise intensity in the treatment of hemiplegia after cerebral ischaemia.

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43- Optimal condition of cannabis maceration to obtain the high cannabidiol and Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol content
Authors: Chaowalit Monton, Fameera Madaka, Sukanya Settharaksa, Thaniya Wunnakup, Jirapornchai Suksaeree and Thanapat Songsak

This work sought to optimize a maceration of cannabis using a circumscribed central composite experimental design. Extraction temperature and time were independent variables. While, the extraction yield, cannabidiol content, and Δ⁹- tetrahydrocannabinol content were dependent variables. The three responses were predicted by the computer software. The extraction yield was high when cannabis was macerated using ethanol at high temperature and long duration time. While cannabidiol and Δ⁹- tetrahydrocannabinol content was high when macerating at a low heating temperature and short duration time. The optimal condition provided the simultaneous high of cannabidiol and Δ⁹- tetrahydrocannabinol content was 40°C for 30 min.

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AGRARIAN SCIENCES

44- Soil conservation practices in a watershed in Southern Brazil
Authors: Tiago S. Telles, Marco A.P. Lourenço, José F. Oliveira, Gustavo V. Costa and Graziela M.C. Barbosa

A third of the planet’s land used in agricultural production is severely degraded due to inadequate soil management. In Brazil, the Paraná State was one of the pioneers in the adoption and development of highly conservationist management – the no-tillage system (NT). Despite the establishment of soil and water conservation techniques in Brazilian agriculture, many problems related to soil erosion have been observed in NT areas. Thus in this study, we highlight and emphasized the importance of the using other soil and water conservation practices associated with NT, specifically crop rotation, the contour farming, and agricultural terraces.  

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45- Molecular identification of three species of Oncideres (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) using RAPD marker
Authors: Gláucia Cordeiro, Marina S. da Cunha, Carolina R. da Silva, Isaac R. Jorge, Jorge A. Dergam and Paulo S.F. Ferreira

Twig girdlers have a short adult life and a long larval stage. This fact, along with the lack of morphological apomorphic traits on the larvae, presents obstacles for species identification. The aim of this study was to identify three species of Oncideres by RAPD technique. Adults and larvae of O. saga, O. ocularis and O. ulcerosa were collected in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The two RAPD primers produced different electrophoretic profiles that were used to construct a UPGMA phenogram. Three groups identified in the analyses accurately separated the three species. Molecular markers are valuable tools to help taxonomic identification.

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46- Viruses infecting cool season crops in the northern Turkey
Author: Mehmet A. Sevik

The present work illustrates the natural occurrence and distribution of emerging viruses on commercial Brassica crops in the Northern Region of Turkey. Samples were collected from cole crops during winter seasons. These samples were tested for the presence of Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Beet western yellows virus (BWYV), Radish mosaic virus (RaMV), Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), Turnip yellow mosaic virus (TYMV), and Turnip yellows virus (TuYV). TuMV, CaMV, and CMV were the viruses detected during the two years study. Thus, future research will be focused on epidemiology, yield loss assessment, and management strategies of these viruses.

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47- Additivity of tree biomass components using ratio estimate
Authors: Sylvio Péllico Netto and Alexandre Behling

This study deals with biomass estimation, with the objective to active the additivity of tree biomass components, which is defined as the compatibility among the component predictions and total tree biomass, using ratio estimates.  The proposed model, using ratio estimates, is appropriate and promising for modeling of tree biomass. The results obtained by ratio estimates and WNSUR were quite similar.

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48- Genetic parameters, path analysis and indirect selection of agronomic traits of cassava germplasm
Authors: Rafael P. Diniz and Eder J. de Oliveira

The estimates of genetic parameters for starch yield and other important traits in cassava is useful for selecting clones in the breeding programs. Low to medium heritability was identified (ranging from 0.31 to 0.62), with selective accuracy higher than 0.56. Starch yield had low correlation with dry matter content (0.29), but high correlation with fresh root yield (0.97). The indirect effect of fresh root yield was high for all traits, except dry matter content. Higher predicted gains by using direct selection for starch yield can be achieved in comparison with indirect selection.

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49- Infection by the microsporidium of Clado Nosema/Vairimorpha in pupal parasitoids
Authors: João P.P. Paes, Vanessa R. Carvalho, Amanda R. de Souza, Carlos F. Wilcken and Regiane C.O.F. Bueno

The manuscript entitled “Infection by the microsporidium of Clado Nosema/Vairimorpha in pupal parasitoid” corresponds to the first report of infection of microsporidia belonging to Clado Nosema / Vairimorpha in the parasitoids Trichospilus diatraeae and Palmistichus elaeisis. Molecular identification was performed to evaluate the presence of microsporids in the parasitoid populations. The objective of this study was to improve the understanding of the interaction of parasites with their hosts.

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50- Low dissolved oxygen levels increase stress in piava (Megaleporinus obtusidens): iono-regulatory, metabolic and oxidative responses
Authors: Carlos E. Copatti, Keidi C.S. Bolner, Érika P. Londero, Felipe L. de Rosso, Maria A. Pavanato and Bernardo Baldisseroto

Piava faces different DO levels in the water due to its distributional characteristics. The goal of this study was to describe the effects of low DO levels in piava juveniles. It was verified low DO levels in piava provoked a reduction of plasma ion and liver antioxidants levels; but kidney Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity increased under hypoxia; and anaerobic metabolism was recruited to help maintain ATP supply. It is concluded that piava can apparently cope with hypoxic conditions; however, low DO levels are a stressor, and the tolerance of piava to hypoxia involves iono-regulatory, metabolic and oxidative adjustments.

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51- Microclimatic conditions in the canopy strata and its relations with the soybean yield
Authors: Felipe Schwerz, Braulio O. Caron, Elvis F. Elli, John R. Stolzle, Sandro L.P. Medeiros, Jaqueline Sgarbossa and Ana P. Rockenbach

Microclimate conditions in soybean canopies has not yet been studied in detail. This study proposed to evaluate the solar radiation dynamic and yield responses for each canopy strata for two soybean cultivars in Southern Brazil. The main results were: i) Soybean yield was higher in the upper and middle canopy strata due to the greater solar radiation interception; and ii) This study provided valuable information regarding crop-microclimate interactions and can help to understand plant's canopy dynamics and use the information generated to improve possible management strategies, such as plant diseases monitoring and management, in order to maximize soybean yield.

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52- Spatial distribution and control levels of Anastrepha spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) in guava orchards
Authors: José Nicácio, Isaias de Oliveira, Manoel A. Uchoa, Odival Faccenda, Alfredo R. Abot, Marcos G. Fernandes and Flávio R.M. Garcia

This study aimed to know the patterns of spatial distribution of Anastrepha spp. and establish a criterion for determining the appropriate time for pest control. The populations of Anastrepha presented aggregate distribution. The economic damage risk potential of Anastrepha spp. was associated with the aggregate distribution behavior. The most appropriate moment for the use of control techniques is when reaching 20 flies by the negative binomial. On the other hand, number of fruit fly adults per trap per day (FTD), underestimates population index, which will allow population growth, leading to risk of crop production loss.

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53- Storage and in vitro germination of orchids (Orchidaceae) seeds from Atlantic Forest – Brazil
Authors: Cristina R.B. Franceschi, Eric C. Smidt, Leila N. Vieira and Luciana L.F. Ribas

Seed viability after storage for different periods of time, and the best culture medium composition for Brazilian native orchids were evaluated. Seeds of Grandiphyllum divaricatum, Gomesa praetexta, Gomesa recurva and Gomesa forbesii indicated orthodox behavior, with high viability rates after 12 months of storage, being recommended the storage temperature at -80 °C for the first three species and -20 °C for G. forbesii. The WPM culture medium was the best for asymbiotic germination. The protocol developed in the present study was efficient for seed bank storage, and seedling production, contributing to a conservation strategy of these species.

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54- Water retention curve to analyze soil structure changes due to liming
Authors: Talita R. Ferreira, Luiz F. Pires, André C. Auler, André M. Brinatti and Joshua O. Ogunwole

This manuscript presents an investigation of the effects of liming on the soil structure based on water retention data using a cubic spline adjustment function. Soil water retention characteristics and pore size distribution of a silty-clay Dystrudept were determined as function of three different lime rates, at two different soil layers. Small differences exist in the pore size distribution curves due to liming and between layers for peaks in the structural and matrix domains. With no-till plus surface liming, the volume of large pores diminished at the two layers and the volume of small pores increased at the surface layer.

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55- Endophytic interaction of Bacillus sp. in micropropagated banana plantlets
Authors: Josiele S. Rocha, Silvia Nietsche, Marlon C.T. Pereira, Maria O. Mercadante-Simões, Rayane C. Santos and Adelica A. Xavier

The results of the present study demonstrated the ability of the EB-40 isolate of the genus Bacillus sp. to have both endophytic and epiphytic associations with the roots in micropropagated banana plantlets. The pattern of aggregation observed in bacterial cells in the rhizoplane is an indicator of biofilm formation and the presence of calcium-rich bacterial cell envelopes was observed.

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56- Somatic embryogenesis in the commercial papaya hybrid UENF/Caliman 01 relying on plantlet production from sexed adult hermaphrodite donor plants
Authors: Drielly S. Gouvea, Kristhiano Chagas, Jamile L.D. Cipriano, José Carlos Lopes, Edilson R. Schmildt, Wagner C. Otoni, Omar Schmildt, Caroline P. de Araujo and Rodrigo S. Alexandre

Carica papaya L. is propagated by seeds and it is necessary to plant three to six seedlings per pit. After three to four months of planting use sexing to maintain the hermaphrodite plant. Somatic embryogenesis of UENF/Caliman 01 hermaphrodite plant explants reduces costs with hermaphrodite seedlings (one per pit), water, nutrients, pest and disease control, and sexing. The study identified the ideal 4-CPA (25 μM) for embryogenic induction, as well as the maturation medium containing ABA (0.5 μM) and active charcoal (15 g L^-1). GA3 (2.88 µM) is required when converting cotyledon embryos into seedlings.

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57- Genetic diversity and nonparametric statistics to identify possible ISSR marker association with fiber quality of pineapple
Authors: Julianna M. Silva, Paulo R.L. Lima, Fernanda V.D. Souza, Carlos A.S. Ledo, Everton H. Souza, Katia N. Pestana and Cláudia F. Ferreira

In civil construction, the use of plant fibers in cement matrices is remarkable as an outstanding alternative, since the fibers minimize the fragility of the matrix. We have found high correlation between ISSR bands and quality of pineapple fibers for use in cements in the civil construction. The markers can be used in pineapple genetic breeding for the improvement of pineapple fiber. Thus, development of more promising genotypes for industrial use is at solid perspective.

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58- Phenotypic variance of black oat growing in crop seasons reveals genetic effects predominance
Authors: Daniela Meira, Carine Meier, Tiago Olivoto, Maicon Nardino, Alexsander Rigatti, Luís Antônio Klein, Braulio O. Caron, Volmir S. Marchioro and Velci Q. de Souza

This work aimed to determine variance components and genetic parameters, as well as phenotypic, genetic and environmental correlations among black oat (Avena strigosa) families grown in different crop season. The results reveled high potential of black oat families to compose a breeding program, due to families and controls variance were similar. The panicle weight and panicle grain weight can be used to select superior genotypes. Divergent meteorological conditions between crop seasons expressed few variations among phenotypic, genetic and environmental correlations, and it did not alter magnitude and sense of phenotypic and genetic correlations.

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59-Dermocystidium sp. in the gills of farmed Oreochromis niloticus in Brazil
Authors: Lilian D. Steckert, Lucas Cardoso, Karen R. Tancredo, Maurício L. Martins and Gabriela T. Jerônimo

This is the first report of the occurrence of Dermocystidium sp. in the gills of Nile tilapia cultured in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. No mortalities were reported and the animals were clinically healthy. Histopathological analysis showed that 8.33% of the gills were parasitized by spores of Dermocystidium sp. The spores measured 6.206 μm long x 5.233 μm width presenting a refractile body diameter of 1.965 μm. This study highlights the importance of a new pathogen in farmed tilapia, as well as to its pathogenic potential, considering the outbreaks of mortalities associated with other fish species.

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60- Foraging behavior of two egg parasitoids exploiting chemical cues from the stink bug Piezodorus guildinii (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: María Fernanda Cingolani, María C. Barakat, Gerardo Gustavo Liljesthröm and Stefano Colazza

Adult parasitoids’ abilities to find, parasitize and defend hosts determine resource´s retention potential. In soybean, two egg parasitoids, Telenomus podisi and Trissolcus urichi, compete for the host Piezodorus guildinii an important pest of this crop. We evaluated parasitoid´s abilities to exploit hosts’ footprints; and parasitoid´s behavior when in competition. Both parasitoids showed similar searching abilities, although T. urichi seemed to be more insistent in its search. Furthermore, when competing for the same host, both species retained it equally, with agonistic and non-agonistic behaviors. Understanding interspecific competition between parasitoids contributes to evaluate the compatibility of multiple natural enemies in biological control.

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ENGINEERING SCIENCES

61- Electrospinning synthesis and assessment of physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of cobalt nitrate fibers for wound healing applications
Authors: Saravana Kumar Jaganathan and Mohan P. Mani

Recently, tissue engineering is considered as a prominent technique to repair the damaged human tissue to recreate its native function. Scaffold which serve as a one of major components in tissue engineering used to assist the cell growth.  A novel polyurethane scaffold incorporated with cobalt nitrate was fabricated using electrospinning technique. Fabricated scaffold exhibited desirable physicochemical properties, improved blood compatibility and nontoxic to red blood cells. Hence, the electrospun nanocomposites with the advanced properties may be successfully used for wound healing applications.

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62- Phosphorus dynamics in a highly polluted urban drainage channel-shallow reservoir system in the Brazilian semiarid
Authors: Germário M. Araújo, Iran E. Lima Neto and Helena Becker

This article investigates phosphorus dynamics in an urban drainage channel-reservoir system in the Brazilian semiarid. As a consequence of dilution of untreated sewage in the wet season, phosphorus concentrations decreased by 5-fold. Assuming one- and zero-dimensional models for the channel and reservoir, it was possible to adjust phosphorus decay rates of k_c = 2.2 day^-1 and k_r = 22.8 year^-1, respectively, which were higher than the values found in the literature. This was attributed to the relatively high temperatures and shallow water depths. The results also revealed an inverse dependence of k_c and k_r on water and wind velocity, respectively.

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63- Study of fluvial water treatability using γ-polyglutamic acid based biopolymer coagulant
Authors: Valquíria Campos, Janaína M.F. Domingos, Diego N. dos Anjos and Vivian S. Lira

Gamma-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) has received considerable attention for environmental applications. γ-PGA is obtained through bacterial biosynthesis, and the main producers of γ-PGA are bacteria of the genus Bacillus. PGα21Ca can be considered a hybrid coagulant which combines aluminum sulfate and γ-PGA, in addition to calcium sulfate. γ-PGA can be used as an adjuvant, i.e., an anionic polymer that can create bridges between particles that have already coagulated, producing larger flakes. The main purpose of this work was to analyse the efficiency of the PGα21Ca in coagulation-flocculation processes in order to reach raw water quality standards of the Pinheiros River.

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64- Impact of artificial destratification on water availability of reservoirs in the Brazilian semiarid
Author: Iran E. Lima Neto

This study investigated the effect of artificial destratification on water availability of reservoirs in the Brazilian semiarid. The results revealed that this technique could reduce surface water temperature by at least 1.0ºC, which corresponded to evaporation suppressions of up to about 10% and regulated flow increases of up to about 12%. A general correlation was also proposed to predict the impact of artificial destratification on water availability. Finally, a feasibility analysis provided an operational cost of about 1.0 US$ per cubic meter of saved water, which suggests that artificial destratification is an alternative for supplementing water supply in water-scarce regions.

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65-Ultrasonic pretreatment of carrot slices: Effects of sonication source on drying kinetics and product quality
Authors: Burcin Yilmaz, Hulya Cakmak and Sebnem Tavman

Drying process is one of the highest energy-consuming processes among the food preservation methods. However, pretreatments such as ultrasonic application may reduce the energy consumption, as well as improve the product quality by reducing the drying times. In this study, the ultrasonic probe and bath was employed for the pretreatment of carrot slices in order to increase the mass transfer prior to air drying, and the drying kinetics with quality indices such as β-carotene content, color and rehydration ratio were evaluated. As a result, the ultrasonic treatment had successfully reduced the drying period while the preserving the product quality.

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66-Determination of Drilling Rate Index Based on Rock Strength Using Regression Analysis
Author: Hayati Yenice

In this article the drillability index (DRI) of rocks has been predicted from uniaxial compression strength (UCS) and Brazilian tensile strength (BTS). 31 samples have been tested in the study and the relation between DRI and strength parameters have been associated by means of multiple regression analysis. Strong relationships were obtained from these analyses for the rock strength (UCS) above and below 100 MPa with the correlation coefficients 0.81 and 0.88 respectively. Consequently, the results of the regression analyses show that for more precise prediction of DRI, rocks should be classified according to their strength.

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SOCIAL SCIENCES

67- A study of publication trajectories of the Brazilian Computer Science community
Authors: Marcelo K. Albertini, André R. Backes and Adriano L. de Sá

The average faculty productivity have been described as a rapid rise-short peak-gradual decline pattern. Way et al. have studied this pattern for faculty careers in Computer Science in North America using a piecewise linear model. In this paper we use a similar methodology and study trajectories (N = 20655) of the Brazilian Computer Science community. First, we have evaluated how the median publication count of researchers is related to institution prestige and public vs. private administration. Second, we have studied how the annual publication rates have increased and its variation ac- cording to prestige ranks of institutions. Third, we have found the average trajectory can indeed be described as the canonical rapid increase and slower decrease in productivity. For individual trajectories of senior researchers we have observed only 4.5% of trajectories are well explained by the conventional narrative of rapid rise and gradual decline model. Also we have found polynomial models of degrees 1 to 3 explain almost 63.1% of trajectories. The rest of trajectories are considered unstable and not well explained by neither of approaches.

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Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences
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