Newsletter - Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences

ISSUE 37

AABC - Volume 91.4 - December 2019

The last issue of the Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences (AABC) of 2019 presents 67 contributions in a variety of scientific fields. Leading is Biological Sciences with 27 papers, followed by Agrarian Sciences (20). This issue, however, is one with publications in almost all major scientific categories of the AABC, including Physical, Chemical, Earth, Biomedical, Health, Engineering and Social Sciences.

As usual, it is hard to choose highlights. In Chemical Sciences, there is a study focusing on renewable resources that might be relevant to replace those that are rare or not renewable - an important aspect of Bioeconomy. Still in this scientific field, there is a review of studies dealing with the interface of nanostructures and biological material, discussing how this nano/bio interface could be applied.

In Biological Sciences, there is a paper on the standardization of bioacoustical nomenclature regarding anurans, a study discussing the potential of invasive species of peppertree and the effect on distinct ecosystems, and the discovery of new parasites of piranhas (Serralsalmidae), just to mention a few.

In Agrarian Sciences, the contributions range from spatial distribution of wood volume in areas of the Cerrado to the hazards that might affect fish farms, an important industry in several countries. There is also a study dealing with the genetic factors leading to the resistance of a wild tomato species to some parasites.

I also would like to call your attention to a very interesting review of metallic phthalocyanine films and the different uses that have been pointed out in the last years (Physical Sciences), as well as an analysis considering the human-animal relationships regarding capuchin monkeys (Social Sciences).

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

PHYSICAL SCIENCES

1- Metallic Phthalocyanines: impact of the film deposition method on its supramolecular arrangement and sensor performance
Authors: Mateus D. Maximino, Cibely S. Martin, Matheus S. Pereira and Priscila Aléssio

This review gives an overview of the impact of deposition methods on the supramolecular arrangement of metallic phthalocyanine (MPcs) films and their applications. The possibility of improving the supramolecular arrangement of MPcs films using different deposition techniques such as Langmuir-Blodgett, Langmuir-Schaefer, Layer-by-Layer, physical vapor deposition, and electrodeposition was presented in details. Besides, some techniques used on the characterization of supramolecular arrangement and the sensing applications were also highlighted. The main scope of this review is focused on the advances made on the field in the last five years.

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CHEMICAL SCIENCES

2- Materials from renewable resources: new properties and functions
Authors: Fernando Galembeck, Thiago A.L. Burgo, Douglas S. da Silva and Leandra P. Santos

The transition to Bioeconomy depends on substituting current industrial raw materials from non-renewable or scarce sources for materials derived from the biomass, while increasing food and energy outputs from agriculture. This is feasible, considering extensive empirical evidence from Brazil and recent data from Ethiopia. Increasing the use of biomass as a source of industrial raw materials depends on new findings, like the new properties of cellulose and a better understanding of the electric properties of soft materials. This opened the way to the creation of new nanocomposites, including non-metallic conductive materials used in electric equipment, flexible circuitry and energy harnessing.

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3- Proteins and Peptides at the Interface of Nanostructures
Authors: Adrianne M.M. Brito, Elisangela Belleti, Lucivaldo R. Menezes, Alexandre J.C. Lanfredi and Iseli L. Nantes-Cardoso

The review article is quite appropriate for a multidisciplinary audience working at the nano/bio interface. The article presents useful information and concepts for the public that work with the modulation of protein and peptide structure and applications are interested in the use of nanotechnology for this purpose. The work is also useful for the public that wants to fabricate nanostructures with shapes, sizes, and functionalities differentiated using proteins and peptides as reducing agents and templates. The review includes a new and promising research field that is the use of the protein and peptide chirality for application in bioelectronic.

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4- Weathering Resistance of Waterborne Polyurethane Coatings Reinforced with Silica from Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Wesley F. Monteiro, Gabriela M. Miranda, Rafael R. Soares, Cláudia A.B. dos Santos, Maurício S. Hoffmann, Carlos L.P. Carone, Viviane de Lima, Milton F. de Souza, Adriano D. Campani, Sandra M.O. Einloft, Jeane E. de Lima and Rosane A. Ligabue

This study aimed the waterborne polyurethanes (WPU) composites preparation with SiO₂ particles (from rice husk ash) by two distinct methods: in situ polymerization and blending method. The highest resistance to thermal degradation and to accelerated weathering were reached with WPU/SiO₂ composites obtained by blending method due the interactions between filler and the polymer matrix. Blending method for preparation WPU/silica composites proved to be a simpler and faster method, with no drawback for large-scale application.

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5- Hydrogen production from aqueous glycerol using titanate nanotubes decorated with Au nanoparticles as photocatalysts
Authors: Thalles M.F. Marques, Reinaldo N. Morais, Francisco X. Nobre, Jardel M. Rocha, Anupama Ghosh, Thiago André S. Soares, Bartolomeu C. Viana,Giovanna Machado, Jean Claudio S. Costa and José M.E. de Matos

Hydrogen (H₂) is used by the chemical industry in numerous processes, and today more than 90% is produced from raw materials based on fossil fuels, such as methane (CH₄). However, the use of biomass to produce transportation and related fuels is of increasing interest. The photocatalytic H₂ production from a mixture of glycerol and water over titanate nanotube catalysts was investigated and, both water and glycerol are involved in the photocatalytic H₂ production with Gold nanoparticles decorated titanate nanotubes (AuhTiNts) catalysts. In this work, AuHTiNts was used as photocatalyst in hydrogen production from glycerol as a sacrificial agent.

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6- Dendritic Gold Nanoparticles Towards Transparent and Electroactive Electrodes
Authors: Rodrigo M. Iost, Marccus V.A. Martins and Frank N. Crespilho

ITO are transparent electrodes that are envisioned for innumerous applications, ranging from solar cells to platforms for electrochromic windows. For practical applications, its interesting to understand the main aspects of the surface of ITO electrodes prior to obtain modified surfaces. Modified surfaces can improve the properties of the interface and can be consider one of the major aspects for the development of new devices. The main objective of the present study is the modification of the surface of ITO electrodes with gold nanoparticles and polymer in order to explore the interfacial properties of such hybrid electrodes in transparent electronic devices.

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7- Size and shape-controlled nanomaterials based on modified polyol and thermal decomposition approaches. A brief review
Authors: Laudemir C. Varanda, Caio G.S. Souza, Daniel A. Moraes, Herbert R. Neves, João B. Souza Junior, Monica F. Silva, Rafael A. Bini, Rebecca F. Albers, Tiago L. Silva and Watson Beck Junior

In this review, we show some of the acquired experience at the Colloidal Materials Group (IQSC-USP) on studies related to the synthesis methods development of nanoparticles and multifunctional nanostructured systems. New methodologies allow us to achieve high size, shape, and chemical composition control of the individual nanoparticles that compose the nanostructured systems based on the modified polyol and thermal decomposition processes. Nanoparticle properties are strongly size-dependent and large size distribution implies in large response dispersion, that can be avoided adjusting the nucleation and growth steps. Nanoparticles with magnetic, optical, and electronic properties and some obtained composite materials are described.

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EARTH SCIENCES

8- Zn, Co, Cr, As, and genotoxic effects in the ichthyofauna species from polluted and non-polluted/protected estuaries of the São Paulo coast, Brazil
Authors: Elisabete S. Braga, Juliana S. Azevedo, Leonardo  Kuniyoshi and Déborah I.T. Fávaro

The human impact on estuaries results in an increasing concentration of trace elements in the environment, exposing aquatic organisms. In this study, Zn and Co shown a similar profile of accumulation in Micropogonias furnieri and Chaetodipterus faber species from Santos-São Vicente (SSV) and Cananeia estuary. Fish from the inner area of SSV presented more genotoxic effects than fish from Santos Bay and Cananeia. It was possible to consider that the habits of each species, contributed to a different profile of trace element accumulation, followed by the chemical components in the organism offering different vulnerability.

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9- Leachate and vinasse used in a biological process combined with Fenton's reaction: a green method for treatment of textile effluents
Authors: Andre C. Battisti, Hyalle M.M.F. dos Santos, Jéssica S. Alberton, Letícia M.F. Gomes, Lucas K. Raupp, Mariane R. Graciano, Pâmela E. de Oliveira, Julio L. da Silva Junior and Rafael Carlos E. Dias

A new method for the treatment of liquid waste generated in textile industry was developed by combining a microbiological process with a Fenton’s reaction-based method. Degrading bacteria were obtained from the leachate produced during the decomposition of solid textile residues, and were fed with vinasse, a by-product of the alcohol industry. Total color removal and 80 % of organic matter degradation were achieved in eight days of treatment, producing a little-toxic residue with acceptable acidity level, in a low application cost. The method is innovative and has a great environmental contribution by destining different by-products and disposals.

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10- White sand vegetation in an Amazonian lowland under the perspective of a young geological history
Authors: Dilce F. Rossetti, Gabriel M. Moulatlet, Hanna Tuomisto, Rogério Gribel, Peter M. Toledo, Márcio M. Valeriano, Kalle Ruokolainen, Marcelo C.L. Cohen, Carlos L.O. Cordeiro, Camilo D. Rennó, Luiz S. Coelho and Carlos A.C. Ferreira

Rainforests of the Amazonian lowlands are marked by numerous patches of white-sand vegetation consisting on grasslands and shrublands, mixed with forests containing trees of lower stature, as well as simpler and less stratified canopy structure compared to neighboring forests. These formations contain a high percentage of endemic species, but  what made these exotic plant communities exist within the rainforest remains unknown. In this article, we combined geological and botanical data to show that a large area of white-sand vegetation was formed by late Pleistocene-Holocene environmental disturbances caused by sedimentary processes during the evolution of a megafan system.

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BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

11- Response of duck breeders to dietary L-Carnitine supplementation during summer season
Authors: Yasser S. Rizk, Hany N. Fahin, Malak M. Beshara, Khalid M. Mahrose and Awad L. Awad

A total number of 300 (225 ducks and 75 drakes) Sudani ducks, 28-wk-old were divided into five groups to investigate the effects of dietary L-carnitine (LC) supplementation on productive, hatching and physiological performance as well as nutrients digestibility coefficients. The results indicated that the productive performance and Semen quality parameters (ejaculate volume, sperms concentration and advanced motility) were significantly improved by LC supplementation (150-450 mg /kg diet) as compared to the control. Hatchability of fertile eggs (%) was significantly improved, while total embryonic mortality was significantly decreased by supplementing 300 and 450 mg LC/kg diet. Supplementing different dietary LC levels resulted in significantly high values of hemoglobin, red and white blood cells count and lymphocyte (L) cells percentage, while it decreased heterophils (H) cells and H/L ratio. Serum albumin, total cholesterol and AST enzyme values were significantly low in ducks fed diets supplemented with LC. Serum triglycerides were significantly the lowest by feeding 300 and 450 mg LC/kg diet. Nutrients digestibility coefficients were significantly improved in drakes fed diet supplemented with 450 mg LC/kg diet. Conclusively, dietary LC supplementation at 300 or 450 mg/kg for duck breeders in summer could improve productive, hatching and physiological performance and nutrients digestibility coefficients.

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12- Genotoxic and Genoprotective Potential of Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) Fruit
Authors: Serkan Yılmaz, Asli Uçar and Bayram Göktaş

Present study evaluated the possible genotoxic and/or protective activities of black mulberry fruit juice (Morus nigra L.), in vitro, using mitomycin C (MMC) as a positive control, by chromosomal aberrations and micronucleus assays. The in vitro results demonstrated that it showed no genotoxicity, but significantly decreased chromosomal aberration and micronucleus frequency induced by MMC. Our results showed that all concentrations of (Morus nigra L.) revealed no genotoxicity but protective activity against genomic changes induced by anti-tumor agent MMC in human lymphocytes.

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13- The larva of Neoneura confundens Wasscher and van’t Bosch, 2013 (Odonata, Coenagrionidae) and key to the larvae of genus
Authors: José S. Rodriguez and Carlos Molineri

Larval stages in Odonata are much less known than the adults. In Neoneura Selys, a Panamerican genus with 28 species, only seven species were described at the larval stage. In this work we describe and illustrate the final instar larva of Neoneura confundens for the first time. Adults associated to this larva are also discussed and illustrated, since some geographical variation has been reported in the species. A key to known larvae of Neoneura and new records extending the species range in the southern cone are also given.

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14- Stenodema longicuneata (Carvalho and Rosas, 1966) (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae) in Patagonia: redescription, new synonym and geographic distribution
Authors: Pablo M. Pereyra, Fernando Diez and María del Carmen Coscarón

In this work we contribute to the knowledge of the insect Stenodema longicuneata (Rosas and Carvalho, 1966) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae), describing new variations in the coloration, giving photographs of the genitalia and expanding the distribution of this species in Argentinian Patagonia through new geographical records. In addition, we studied the holotype of Stenodema laolaoensis (Carvalho, 1985) and proposed it as a synonym of S. longicuneata. Finally, we notice than the distribution of S. longicuneata support a biogeographic proposal previously considered about the transition zone between Subantarctic province and Central Chile zone.

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15- Pudicinae (Nematoda) coparasitic in Proechimys roberti (Rodentia: Echimyidae) from the Brazilian Amazonia: description of a new species of Pudica, redescription of Pudica evandroi (Travassos) and updated key to the species of the genus
Authors: Paula C. Serrano, Marie-Claude Durette-Desset and María C. Digiani

This work presents the taxonomical study of some nematodes parasitic in an Amazonian rodent. The parasites, originally collected by one of the authors during a collaborative project, remained unidentified for nearly 50 years. The study revealed the presence of three different species, one of which is new to science. Two of the species (including the new one) belong to the South American genus Pudica; both are described and illustrated. An updated identification key to the species of Pudica is also provided. Types of the new species were deposited in the country of origin, Brazil.

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16- A new species of Stethelmis Hinton (Coleoptera: Elmidae) from Argentina and  description of its larva
Authors: Nicolás Rafael Martínez-Román, Verónica Manzo and Miguel Archangelsky

Riffle beetles (Coleoptera, Elmidae) are tiny aquatic beetles that are common dwellers of lotic environments all around the world and are becoming more important because of their potential use as bioindicators of water quality. Here, we describe the adult and the larva of Stethelmis shepardi a new species of an endemic genus of Patagonia, an ecoregion located in the southern region of South America that shows a high environmental heterogeneity and a remarkable high level of endemisms. Our paper not only contribute to the general knowledge of elmid fauna but also to the future studies that use elmids as bioindicators.

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17- Native and ornamental exotic resources in pollen loads and garbage pellets of four stingless bees (Apidae, Meliponini) in an urban environment with riparian native forest
Author: Favio G. Vossler

Research on bee diet in urban habitats will become increasingly important for native bee management and conservation due to human population growth. Palynological study is a powerful tool when researching plant-bee interactions. The observed versatile foraging behaviour of four meliponines on spontaneous (mostly native) and cultivated (mostly ornamental exotic) pollen resources is an important issue for the conservation and rearing of stingless bee colonies (meliponiculture) in urban habitats where native flora is preserved, particularly the riparians, where a high richness of blooming plants is available. It is necessary to raise awareness of the importance of the conservation of native species of bees and associated plants in urban areas.

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18- Impact of immunological state on eco-physiological variables in one of the southernmost lizards in the world
Authors: Fernando Duran, Jorgelina M. Boretto, Jimena B. Fernández, Mora Ibáñez Molina, Marlin S. Medina and Nora R. Ibargüengoytía

The immune state is an essential component of survival and directly influences physiological performance. This study analysis how body temperature, locomotor performance, and body condition are affected by the immunological state in the lizard Liolaemus sarmientoi. We found that juveniles and adult males with a high percentage of eosinophils, basophils, and a low percentage of monocytes preferred higher body temperatures, while pregnant females maintained thermal preferences independently of leukocyte profile. Additionally, juveniles with high percentage of heterophils showed less locomotor stamina. This study represents a starting point in eco-immunology of a wild Liolaemus population in cold environments of Patagonia.

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19- Morphological  and morphometric variations of Dicrocoelium rileyi (Digenea: Dicrocoelidae) parasitizing Tadarida brasiliensis (Chiroptera: Molosiidae) in Mexico
Authors: Jorge Falcón-Ordaz, Pablo Octavio-Aguilar and Isabel Estrella-Cruz

The digenia Dicrocoelium rileyi from five localities in Mexico, were morphological and morphometrically analyzed, to evaluate the degree of variation among the five populations. Twenty-seven morphometric traits were transformed in an orthogonal factor by a PCA and a posterior contrast among populations by DAPC. A significant difference was observed, forming three groups with an 88% of assignation. These results show that the morphological traits are variable among the populations due to local intraspecific variation; this could be interpreted to some of specimens, as different species; a molecular analysis is necessary to define whether if the populations involved constitute several species.

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20- Biodiversity of the Neotropical Larginae (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoroidea: Largidae): Description of a new genus and new species
Authors: María Cecilia Melo and Pablo M. Dellapé

The new genus Parvacinocoris of the true bug family Largidae is described to include a new species from Argentina and Paraguay, and a species previously placed in Acinocoris, known from Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, Surinam, and Venezuela. Its affinities with the closest genus Acinocoris, are discussed. Photographs of dorsal and lateral habitus of both sexes as well as the male genitalia of the new species are included.

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21- Parasitism of the isopod Riggia puyensis Rodríguez-Haro et al. in two armored catfish from Pastaza Province (Ecuador)
Authors: Silvia E. Plaul, Cecilia Rodríguez-Haro, Sergio R. Martorelli and Claudio G. Barbeito

Isopods (Riggia puyensis) occupying a large part of the abdominal cavity of juvenile catfish were found. Each specimen of R. puyensis was cover by a fold of skin (pouch) which would act as a barrier to secondary infections and would prevent peritoneum perforation. Alterations described in the epidermis as erosion, desquamation, atrophy and infiltration of inflammatory cells were associated with the mechanical action of the isopod inside the pouch.

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22- Naming structures and qualifying properties of anuran bioacoustical signals: a call for a homology-based nomenclature and equality for quantitative data.
Authors: Fábio Hepp and José P. Pombal Jr

Several articles have been published aiming to standardize the anuran bioacoustical nomenclature. However, those name propositions have been based on universal similarities of the bioacoustical structures, which is pragmatically difficult and, most importantly, inaccurate regarding to homology assessment. In this article, we propose to first assess homology correspondence and then apply adequate terms to bioacoustical structures. Additionally, we argue that there is no biological difference between traits presented qualitatively or quantitatively, including bioacoustical traits, and some of the issues assumedly related to a quantitative nature are actually related to polymorphism and overlap of trait variation between taxa.

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23- Ecological niche modeling of Schinus molle reveals the risk of invasive species expansion into biodiversity hotspots
Authors: Rafael P.M. Lemos, Cristiane B.D. Matielo, Alcemir S. Marques Jr, Michele G. dos Santos, Vanessa G. da Rosa, Deise S. Sarzi, João Vitor S. Rosa and  Valdir M. Stefenon

In this study we investigated the establishment potential of the invasive species peppertree over all the different world's ecosystems, based on the climatic conditions and niche modeling. Under the current climatic conditions, this species may expand and establish over wide areas, including several world’s biodiversity hotspots. Given the negative impacts of invasive species and the projections of climate changes, we present a map of potential invasion areas, which may serve as a guide towards avoiding such events in biodiversity hotspots.

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24- In vitro generation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells methodological aspects in a comprehensive review
Authors: Giovana Cechim and José A.B. Chies

Dendritic cells (DCs) initiate and shape both innate and adaptive immune responses. They are specialized in antigen presentation to naïve T cells, thereby orchestrating the T cell immune responses. Human peripheral blood and tissues contain several subsets of phenotypically and functionally distinct DCs, which promote interactions between the external environment and lymphoid organs. In vitro studies only became more frequent when Frederica Sallusto and Antonio Lanzavecchia developed a method to generate DCs from blood monocytes in vitro. In this review we summarize recent advances in methodologies and inputs used in protocols to differentiate DCs from blood monocytes in vitro.

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25- First record of dorsal and anal fin deformities in blue tang, Acanthurus coeruleus (Acanthuridae, Actinopterygii) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: Camila Cristina P. de Brito, Júlio L. Araújo, Viviana Márquez-Velásquez, Marianna B. da  Silva and  Ricardo S. Rosa

In a blue tang Acanthurus coeruleus is reported for the first time an unusual lunate concavity in the dorsal and anal fins, as well as a pronounced caudal peduncle morphology. During research in the Marine State Park Queimado Shipwreck, northeastern Brazil, the individual was observed displaying normal behavior condition and swimming mode, despite these deformities. In general, deformities are associated to environmental factors; however, the lack of additional data hampers the determination of the major drivers of this condition.

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26- An Update on the Occurrence and Damage Caused to Cashew by Gypona cerea DeLong & Freytag (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Suyanne A. de Souza, Nivia S. Dias-Pini, Luiz Augusto L. Serrano, Francisco C. Vidal Neto, Gabriela Priscila S. Maciel, Viviane R. de Sousa and Wilson S. de Azevedo Filho

The leafhopper Gypona cerea DeLong & Freytag (Cicadellidae: Iassinae: Gyponini) was collected from a crop of dwarf cashew (Anacardium occidentale Linnaeus 1753) located in Piauí, Northeastern Brazil. The damage caused to the crop included inflorescences covered with sticky exudates, presence of sooty mold, and yellowing and drying of new shoots and inflorescences. Such documentation serves as a warning about possible outbreaks of infestation in the region and the likelihood of its expansion to other cashew producing areas.

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27- Genotoxicity, anti-melanoma and antioxidant activities of Hymenaea courbaril L. seed extract
Authors: Kamille D. Spera, Patrícia A.  Figueiredo, Pamela C.E. Santos, Fernando C. Barbosa, Caio P. Alves, Anne Lígia Dokkedal, Luiz Leonardo Saldanha, Luciana P. Silva, Carlos Rogério Figueiredo, Paulo Cesar Ferreira and Regildo M.G. da Silva

This paper demonstrated that H. courbaril species features effect citotoxity in B16F10 melanoma cells line, antigenotoxic effect on mice bone marrow cells and present antioxidant activity.  H. courbaril has flavonoids which  belongto the class of flavones.This can explain the biological activities observed in this study. The in vitro cytotoxic activity and in vivo genotoxic and antigenotoxic activities of the extract of H. courbaril seedson murine melanoma cells was first time reported in this paper.

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28- Physiological responses of soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merrill) cultivars to copper excess
Authors: Raissa Schwalbert, Lincon O.S. Silva, Rai A. Schwalbert, Camila P. Tarouco, Gillian S. Fernandes, Anderson C.R. Marques, Camila C. Costa, Rodrigo K. Hammerschmitt, Gustavo Brunetto and Fernando T. Nicoloso

Most vineyards have copper-contaminated soils due to the use of copper fungicides on vines for controlling fungal diseases. The high copper content on soils has affected the growth of vines. Thus, the cultivation of annual species, such as soybean, is an alternative of remediation for these soils. For this, it is important to know more about the soybean tolerance to copper excess as well as genotype responses. There was a soybean cultivar named M 6410 IPRO that showed to be little sensitive to copper excess, recording high photosynthetic rate and high activity of antioxidant system enzymes.

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29- First record of growth rings for 11 native subtropical anuran species of South America
Authors: Amanda J.C. Brum, Luiza Loebens, Maurício B. dos Santos and Sonia Z. Cechin

Skeletochronology is the most accurate method to estimate a population age structure. However, for Brazilians frogs, this method is little used. We provide initial data, allowing researchers to further work out in the age of individuals and populations, sampling evidence of the presence of growth rings in 11 native species (nine families) of a subtropical region of southern Brazil. This is the first record of growth rings to the native species herein analyzed and show that skeletochronology is an effective tool in determining the age of anuran amphibians from a subtropical region, since this environment presents well defined climatic seasonality.

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30- First record of Dichelyne (Dichelyne) bonacii (Nematoda, Cucullanidae) parasitizing the intestine of two species of lutjanid fish (Perciformes, Lutjanidae) on the northeast Brazilian coast
Authors: André M. Alves, Taíssa A.S. Calassans, Janaína F. Freire, Geza T.R. e Souza, Ricardo M. Takemoto, Claudia M. de Melo, Verónica L.S. Jeraldo and Rubens R. Madi

Lutjanid fish are marine, migratory and generalist carnivores, these characteristics allow infections by groups of parasites such as cuculanid nematodes. This study describes the first occurrence of Dichelyne (Dichelyne) bonacii in Brazil, in two new hosts Lutjanus analis and Rhomboplites aurorubens, in the northeast coast of Brazil. This parasite had been reported only in fish that inhabit waters off the coast of Mexico. The results indicate that probably the host range and the distribution of D. (Dichelyne) bonacii are not as restricted as the data indicated in the literature, being broader, extending also to the waters that bathe the Brazilian coast.

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31- Rhinoxenus (Dactylogyridae) parasitizing piranhas (Serrasalmidae) at its southernmost limit of distribution (Paraná River, Argentina), with the description of two new species
Authors: María A. Rossin, Pablo N. de Francesco, Manuel M. Irigoitia, Pablo A. Scarabotti, Verónica Taglioretti and Juan T. Timi

Serrasalmus maculatus, S. marginatus and Pygocentrus nattereri (piranhas), are common predator fishes that live sympatrically in the lower Paraná River (Argentina). The parasites of their nasal cavity were studied, especially monogenean taxa. Rhinoxenus species were found, and 2 new species, R. argentinensis and R. paranaensis are described. Additionally, new morphological data of R. piranhus and R. euryxenus is provided. Rhinoxenus comprises 8 parasite species from Neotropical characiform fishes, which have been recorded in rivers of Brazil and French Guiana. This is the first report from Argentina adding 2 new species, increasing to 10 the species richness of Rhinoxenus.

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32- Range distribution and contributions to taxonomy of Elops smithi (ELOPIFORMES: ELOPIDAE)
Authors: Rodrigo P.C. de Sousa, Denise Sodré, Rauquírio M. da Costa, Marcelo Vallinoto, Edivaldo H.C. Oliveira, Gláucia C. Silva-Oliveira, Iracilda Sampaio and Aurycéia Guimarães-Costa

Our manuscript highlights Elops smithi as a common species in estuaries and in other coastal environments in the Western South Atlantic, and which for years has remained hidden under the name of its cryptic congenere Elops saurus. Our results show that in addition to the mitochondrial DNA-based molecular tool, the cytogenetic analysis provide significant means for differentiation between these two species.

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33- The protective effects of β-sitosterol and vermicularin from Thamnolia vermicularis (Sw.) Ach. against skin aging in vitro
Authors: Haiyuan Yu, Xueqing Shen, Dan Liu, Minhua Hong and Yanhua Lu

β-Sitosterol and vermicularin are two active components of Thamnolia vermicularis (Sw.) Ach. extract preventing skin aging. β-Sitosterol promoted the biosynthesis of hyaluronic acid in fibroblasts and enhanced the expression of skin barrier functional proteins in keratinocytes, which conduced to skin moisturizing. Moreover, vermicularin was proved an anti-wrinkle agent that prevented collagen type I loss via inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases-1 production through antioxidation and mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling suppression within hydrogen-peroxide-induced fibroblasts. The present research will contribute to the development of β-sitosterol and vermicularin as anti-aging ingredients and to further studies of raw material containing alike compounds.

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34- Evaluation of  a rat model  of exercise-induced fatigue using treadmill running with progressively increasing load
Authors: Lijuan Hou, Ke Li, Yanru Hu, Yijun Bian, Wei Ji, Kaixuan Shi, Yiting Li, Mengjiao Chen, Jiaxin Li, Xiaoli Liu and Decai Qiao

The mechanism behind exercise-induced fatigue is a significant topic in the field of sports physiology. Heart rate can accurately reflect the immediate change in physical function and behavioral performance due to exercise load. In this study, changes in heart rate and behavioral indexes during exercise-induced fatigue were quantitatively analyzed in rats using heart rate telemetry and video methods respectively. The behavioral indexes were used as independent variables and the degree of fatigue was used as the forecast value. It identified a linear relationship between heart rate and exercise intensity, with a plateau in heart rate occurring during difference periods. It will serve as an effective reference for the modeling of exercise-induced fatigue.

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35- Direct analysis of vicariance in Neotropical mayflies (Ephemeroptera)
Authors: Carlos Molineri, Carolina Nieto and  Eduardo Domínguez

The distribution of aquatic insects has been poorly explored in quantitative analyses aiming at the historical reconstruction of area relationships in the Neotropics. Ephemeroptera is an ancient group, characterized by its low vagility, and of high richness and endemicity in this region. Our aim is to reconstruct area history in the Neotropics using the rationale of Barrier biogeography (Hovenkamp protocol). We present eleven mayfly phylogenies, representing groups that evolved independently at least from the Jurassic (i.e., not a one-taxon history). With these groups, we conducted independent biogeographical analyses (using Vicariance Inference Program), and extracted the events that repeated in two or more clades. We found fifty-eight TVEs, from which four were found at least twice, thus constituting SVEs.

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36- Dominant yeasts associated to mango (Mangifera indica) and rose apple (Syzygium malaccense) fruit pulps investigated by culture-based methods
Authors: Mauricio Ramírez-Castrillón, Lauisa M. Usman, Lina M. Silva-Bedoya and Esteban Osorio-Cadavid

We identified the dominant yeast species associated with fruit pulps of mango and rose apple in Cali, Colombia. In total we isolated 90 yeasts belonging to 16 different species (almost of them Ascomycetous yeasts), where only two were shared species for both fruits. We associated the species to fruit pulps with higher or lower Brix and we found two candidates to new species, belonging to genera Wickerhamomyces and Pichia.

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37- Vitamin B6 reduces oxidative stress in lungs and liver in experimental sepsis
Authors: Amanda D. Giustina, Lucinéia G. Danielski, Michele M. Novochadlo, Mariana P.S. Goldim, Larissa Joaquim, Kiuanne L.L. Metzker, Raquel Jaconi de Carli, Tais Denicol, Thaina Cidreira, Thaynan Vieira and Fabricia Petronilho

Sepsis is a systemic response to an infection with the involvement of inflammation and oxidative stress that can lead to organ dysfunction. Vitamin B6 has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and we investigated these properties in the liver and lung of rats subjected to model of abdominal sepsis. Adult male Wistar rats were submitted to sepsis and received Vitamin B6 (600 mg/kg, subcutaneous). Twenty-four hours later, was verified that Vitamin B6 diminished neutrophil infiltration in liver and lung, oxidative markers in the liver, restored catalase activity in the lung and this way, exerted a protective effect in peripheral organs.

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BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

38- Diosmin induces caspase-dependent apoptosis in human glioblastoma cells
Authors: Juliana M. Soares, Bruna M. de Faria, Lucas M. Ascari, Soniza V. Alves-Leon, Jorge M. de Souza, Antonio G. Soares, Yraima Cordeiro and Luciana F. Romão

Diosmin, a flavone glycoside extracted from citrus fruit peels, is the main component of the highly safe vascular medication Daflon. There are numerous evidences for the antitumor activity of isolated diosmin in different types of cancer, but none regarding human glioblastoma. Using cell culture assays, this work demonstrated that this natural compound promotes viability decrease, morphological changes, DNA fragmentation, and cleaved caspase-3 expression in human glioblastoma cells without affecting the viability of healthy human astrocytes. Together, these findings indicate that diosmin induces caspase-dependent apoptosis selectively in tumor cells and, therefore, could be repositioned for the treatment of human glioblastoma.

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HEALTH SCIENCES

39- Zingiber officinale formulation reduces hepatic injury and weight gain in rats fed an unhealthy diet
Authors: Dalila T. Leal, Gleide G. Fontes, Julia K.D. Villa, Rodrigo B. Freitas, Mateus G. Campos, Camilo A. Carvalho, Virginia R. Pizziolo and Marisa A.N. Diaz

Wistar rats were fed a combination of unhealthy foods, the cafeteria diet, which promoted increases in body weight, hepatocyte nucleus area, total hepatocyte area and liver fat accumulation, as well as reduced hepatic glutathione S-transferase concentration, compared to the control group, which received commercial chow. The treatment with ginger formulation improved all these results, highlighting the reduction of 10% of body weight and 66% of the total area of lipid droplets deposited, compared to the group that received the cafeteria diet. Ginger formulation treatments also attenuated lipid peroxidation, with a mean reduction of 41% in malondialdehyde levels and a mean increase of 222% in glutathione-S-transferase activity in the liver. Suggesting that ginger formutation can have beneficial effects on health complications associated with unhealthy diet, such as excessive adiposity, oxidative stress and hepatic injury.

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40- Multicomponent training with different frequencies on body composition and physical fitness in obese children
Authors: Ana Sofia R. Alves, Telma L. Venâncio, Samuel Alexandre A. Honório and  Júlio Manuel C. Martins

Noadays, obesity is considered a main public health problem worldwide being highly prioritized on the European public health. Opposing, the physical fitness has been considered as a determinant factor of health status, and a foremost component for the preservation and enhancement of health and holistic development during childhood. Revolutionary studies have shown the effectiveness of specific conditioning methods, as endurance training, strength training, and more recently concurrent training to improve body composition and physical fitness levels in childhood. However, till the present moment, no evidences there are related to the effects of different exercise frequencies in body composition and physical fitness levels in overweight and obese pubescent children. Meantime, the present study provides pertinent evidences that should be considered by professionals in physical education or youth sport in order to adapt practical tasks depending on the training purposes.

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41- Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of Cr (III), Co (II) and Ni  (II) complexes with 2-thiazoline-2-tiol derivative ligands against bacteria and yeasts of  clinical importance
Authors: Karina M.S. Herrera, Lorena S. Ferreira, Alysson V. Braga, Juliano  P. Souza, Jéssica T. Andrade, Adriana C. Soares, Luis  F. Soares, Rafael C.R. Chagas and  Jaqueline M.S. Ferreira

Antimicrobial resistance is a current health concern frequently reported in hospital settings, increasing mortality rates and hospitalization costs. In the search for new antimicrobial agents, metal complexes are considered a valuable source of investigation whereas they have a high capacity of interaction with biological molecules. In this work, four unpublished complexes were synthesized, characterized and the antimicrobial activity was investigated by broth microdilution method. As a highlight, the results obtained from the antifungal activity experiments were particularly promising, since Candida strains proved to be sensitive to the complexes.

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42- Phytogenic as feed additive for suckling dairy calves’ has a beneficial effect on animal health and performance
Authors: Andreia Volpato, Regiane B. Crecencio, Tahinã Tomasi, Gabrieka M. Galli, Luiz Gustavo Griss, Aniélen D. da Silva, Maria Rosa C. Schetinger, Ana Luiza B. Schogor, Matheus D. Baldissera, Lenita M. Stefani and Aleksandro S. da Silva

Essential oil or their compounds can be used as feed additives for dairy calves, these ingredients give rise to the products known as phytogenic. The carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, eucalypt aroma and paprika oleoresin were used as additive in diet of calves. Occur a reduces total bacterial count in animals' feces, an antimicrobial effect. The activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione S-transferase was increased in blood. It avoids fluctuations in biochemical variables related to protein metabolism and carbohydrates. Have a decreases cases of diarrhea in calves, and consequently favors weight gain of animals.

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43- The effect of newly initiated exercise training on dynamic thiol / disulphide homeostasis in sedentary obese adults
Authors: Hakim Celik, Tuğba  Kilic,  Davut S. Kaplan, Mehmet A. Eren, Ozcan Erel, Ali Z.  Karakilcik and Cahit Bagci

Obese adults are often advised various exercise programs to lose weight, but there are few studies on the oxidative stress effects of exercise programs in obesity. So we studied dynamic thiol/disulfide homeostasis, a new and efficient indicator of oxidative stress, to investigate the effects of a newly initiated exercise program on sedentary obese adults. The results of the study showed that both the obesity and the exercise program lead to oxidative stress. To alleviate oxidative stress, the diet of obese adults should be supplemented with antioxidant nutrients and exercise intensity should maintain in a moderate condition until their BMI have been reduced.

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AGRARIAN SCIENCES

44- Exudate - phenolphthalein pH test for evaluation of validity in seeds of Libidia ferrea
Authors: Priscila C. Souto, Edilma P. Gonçalves, Jeandson S. Viana, Júlio C. A. Silva, Débora T. R. G. Ferreira and Lidiana N. Ralph

Seed companies are looking for promising, quick and effective alternatives to determine the physiological quality of seeds. Studying the efficiency of the exudate-phenolphthalein pH test to evaluate the seeds of two lots of Libidibia ferrea. The percentage of viability and germination of the seeds did not differ in the temperatures of 25 and 30°C and in the soaking periods by the exudate-phenolphthalein pH test. It is recommended that the test be conducted for at least 30 minutes in distilled and deionized water at the constant temperature of 25 or 30°C to evaluate the vigor of the Libidibia ferrea.

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45- Dietary iron chelate for sows and effects on iron supplementation in piglets
Authors: Carine A. Barros, Leonardo A.F. Pascoal, Pedro H. Watanabe, Terezinha D.D. Martins, Tiago S. Andrade and José E.S. Ribeiro

Iron deficiency anemia is a very common challenge for pig farmers, which is caused due the low iron transfer from the sow to progeny through placenta and the low concentration of this mineral in milk. To overcome this problem an attempt was made by the supplementation of sows’ diet using iron chelate, however, no influence of this dietary supplementation was observed on the reproductive parameters of the sows as well as on the iron concentration in milk, suggesting that iron absorption was not improved. Therefore, newborn piglets had to receive either intramuscular or oral iron supplementation to overcome anemia.

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46- Spatial distribution of wood volume in Brazilian savannas
Authors: Eduarda M.O. Silveira, Aliny A. dos Reis, Marcela C.N.S. Terra, Kieran D. Withey, José M. de Mello, Fausto W. Acerbi-Júnior, Antonio Carlos Ferraz Filho and Carlos R. Mello

Here we modeled and described the wood volume of Cerrado Sensu Stricto, a highly heterogeneous vegetation type in the Savanna biome, in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. We integrated forest inventory data with spatial-environmental variables, multivariate regression, and regression kriging. Seasonality of both temperature and precipitation, along with the density of deforestation, explained the variations of wood volume throughout Minas Gerais. The spatial distribution of predicted wood volume of Cerrado Sensu Stricto in Minas Gerais revealed the high variability of this variable (15.32 to 98.38 m³ ha^-1) and the decreasing gradient in the southeast-northwest direction.

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47- Resistance of the wild tomato Solanum habrochaites to Phytophthora infestans is governed by a major gene and polygenes
Authors: Mariane G. F. Copati, Flávia M. Alves, Françoise D. Dariva, Herika P. Pessoa, Felipe O. Dias, Pedro C. S. Carneiro, Derly J. H. Silva and Carlos Nick

In this work, we used a new methodology based on maximum likelihood estimators to study the inheritance of resistance to Phytophthora infestans in tomato plants. Unlike previous methodologies, this new approach provides information about the effect that each gene has on the expression of the selected character. It also can tell if the genes have additive or dominance effects which is important for selection purposes (only additive effects are inheritable). Here, we show that resistance to P. infestans in tomato plants is a recessive trait, governed by a major gene with additive and dominant effects, polygenes with additive effects, plus the environmental effect.

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48- Diametric Growth of Tree Species in the Atlantic Forest, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Ronan F. Souza, Sebastião A. Machado and Tomaz Longhi-Santos

This study aimed to describe diametric growth of Balfourodendron riedelianum, Cordia trichotoma and Ocotea diospyrifolia based on its growth rings and to verify the relationship between this growth with the environmental characteristics in different altitude levels and forest types. We analyzed increment cores of trees of the forests in the Iguaçu National Park collected with an increment borer and historical averages air temperature and rainfall in the region. We observed that diametric growth was higher for the largest tree diameters of the three species and that environmental conditions and forest types affected diametric growth of these species.

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49- Probiotic, antibiotic and combinations in Nile tilapia juveniles culture
Authors: Andre L. Ferreira, Matheus P.S. Amorim, Emilene R. Souza, Marianne Schorer, Gustavo H.F. Castro and Marcelo M. Pedreira

In recent years, environmental and health hazards are a great concern for the fish industry. For this reason, the use of antibiotics has been restricted in many countries, although the antibiotic is effective as a growth promoter. Under these circumstances, the use of probiotics has been evaluated as an alternative to antibiotics, as they can improve fish's health, feed utilization, productive performance, and are environmentally friendly. For this reason, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the commercial probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), antibiotic (florfenicol), and its combination for Nile tilapia culture.

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50- Soil microbial C:N:P ratio across physiognomies of Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Sandra M.B. Rocha, Jadson E.L. Antunes, Fabio F. de Araujo, Lucas W. Mendes, Ricardo S. de Sousa and Ademir S.F. de Araujo

Soil microbial biomass is essential to organic matter decomposition and nutrients cycling. Therefore, the availability and/or conservation of nutrients in soil are controlled by soil microbial biomass and these processes depend of the relationship between microbial C, N and P, expressed as the C:N:P stoichiometry. Thus, the knowledge about C:N:P stoichiometry is important for the understanding of microbial nutrient limitations in soils mainly in native biome, such as Cerrado. Thus, this paper brings important information about the microbial biomass stoichiometry that is important for conservation policies to native Cerrado, contributing for the protection and regulating the use for agricultural purposes.

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51- Is arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species community affected by cotton growth management systems in the Brazilian Cerrado?
Authors: Heliab B. Nunes, Brubo T. Goto, João Luiz Coimbra, Jamile S. Oliveira, Dérica G. Tavares, Marcelo S. Rocha, Fabiane L. Silva and Ana Cristina F. Soares

This study reports novel data regarding the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) species community composition in conventional and organic family-based cotton production systems, as compared to the native AMF of Cerrado and the transition area between the Cerrado and Caatinga biomes, in western Bahia, Brazil. The predominate genera in all areas were Glomus and Acaulospora. Paraglomus bolivianum was first reported in Cerrado. Cultivation of colored cotton under organic family-based systems may have had positive effects on the AMF soil community structure. The conventional cotton production areas had lower numbers of AMF species.

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52- Agroforestry systems and understory harvest management: the impact on growth and productivity of dual-purpose wheat
Authors: Braulio O. Caron, Marcos Vinícius M. Pinheiro, Cleiton Korcelski, Felipe Schwerz, Elvis Felipe Elli, Jaqueline Sgarbossa and Liliane B. Tibolla

The objective of the study was to evaluate the growth and production efficiency of forage-grain dual-purpose wheat in two arrangements and four agroforestry systems, as well as to evaluate crop management for the wheat crops in two planting seasons. Agroforestry systems generated shading for wheat plants, with a higher phyllochron and lower values of leaf area index of those individuals kept under trees with higher crown shading (non-deciduous) due to the lower transmissivity of solar radiation. Thus, cultivation of tree species and dual-skilled agricultural crops, such as wheat, provides promising alternatives for the future use of land in tropical countries.

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53- Water retention capacity in Arenosols and Ferralsols in a semiarid area in the state of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Roberto da B.V. Parahyba, Maria do Socorro B. de Araújo, Brivaldo G. de Almeida, Fernando C. Rolim Neto, Everardo V.S.B. Sampaio and Anildo M. Caldas

In the semiarid zone of northeastern Brazil occur sandy soils, known to have low moisture retention. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of particle size distribution and porosity on the water retention capacity of some of these sandy soils. Soil bulk and particle densities, total porosity, field capacity, permanent wilting point and soil-water retention curve were determined in samples of surface and subsurface horizons. Higher amounts of the medium and fine sand fractions and the arrangement of the fine silt, clay, fine sand and very fine sand particles may have provided a great water retention capacity.

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54- Energy balance and CO₂ emission in mechanized biomass harvesting in pine stands under thinning
Authors: Carla K. Rodrigues, Eduardo S. Lopes, Dimas A. Silva, Afonso Figueiredo Filho and Allan L. Pelissari

Biomass is an important component of the Brazilian energy matrix, mainly the co-product biomass from wood harvesting operations. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the energy balance and CO₂ potential emission in mechanized biomass harvesting operations in Pinus taeda L. stands under the first thinning, searching to support the use of co-product biomass from thinning as a renewable energy source. We have shown the use of co-product biomass is an important way to attenuate greenhouse gas emission, since the consumed energy and produced CO₂ by the harvesting machines can be mitigated by the thinned biomass.

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55- Metabolic responses to dietary carbohydrate/ lipids ratios in neotropical hybrid catfish (♂Pseudoplatystoma corruscans× ♀Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum)
Authors: Daniel Okamura, Rodrigo Fortes-Silva, Renan R. Paulino, Felipe G. de Araújo, Diego V. da Costa, Raquel T. Pereira and Priscila V. Rosa

Dietary carbohydrate and lipid (CHO/L) ratios on the performance and energy metabolism of hybrid catfish was performed. Fish were fed with four CHO/L ratios (0.45, 1.00, 1.66 and 2.85). No significant differences were observed in growth performance, protein and triglycerides of plasma and muscle, hepatic protein or malic enzyme activity. CHO/L: 2.85 provided the highest plasma and liver glucose, while CHO/L: 0.45 showed high liver triglycerides. A linear effect was found for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzymes and dietary starch levels (R²=0.93). In conclusion, the limit of dietary starch inclusion and lipids were 15% and 9.00%, respectively (CHO/L: 1.66).

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56- Sugarcane inoculated with endophytic diazotrophic bacteria: effects on yield, biological nitrogen fixation and industrial characteristics
Authors: Jadson Emanuel L. Antunes, Ana Dolores S. de Freitas, Louise M.S. Oliveira, Maria do Carmo C.P. de Lyra, Manoel A.C. Fonseca, Carolina E.R.S. Santos, José de Paula Oliveira, Ademir Sérgio F. de Araújo and Márcia V.B. Figueiredo

This work presents originality and scientific relevance for its outstanding role in the sustainability of agricultural systems, due to its contribution to the supply of nitrogen to several natural and managed ecosystems. It is important to report that for a beneficial interaction between plant and microorganisms, it is necessary to select efficient and competitive strains that have synergism with other microorganisms capable of increasing BNF, through a combination and / or compatibility of the bacterial strains, as reported in this research. Optimizing and expanding the use of microbial inoculants in sugarcane will have a positive balance of N and consequently, the increase in productivity and reduction of the environmental impact associated with the reduction of use of N- fertilizer.

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57- Histology of juvenile skin of Lepidosiren paradoxa Fitzinger, 1837 (Sarcopterygii, Dipnoi)
Authors: Luis Alberto Romano, Andrea I.H. López, Juan Rafael Buitrago and Virgínia F. Pedrosa

The skin of three juvenile Lepidosiren paradoxa specimens was examined. The epidermis was composed of a polystratified epithelium resting on a basement membrane, including mucus-secreting cells, and a cuticle of mucopolysaccharides on the surface. Two types of skin receptors, electroreceptors and mechanoreceptors, were found; the first type was located in the dermoepidermal junction, and the second type was completely intraepiderma. The skin structure of these fish, suggests the possibility of the skin participating in the breath.

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58- Feedstock and inoculum characteristics and process parameters as predictors for methane yield in mesophilic solid-state anaerobic digestion
Authors: Gabriela R. Niquini, Suzimara R. Silva, Esly F. Costa Junior  and Andréa O.S. da Costa

Solid-state anaerobic digestion (SS-AD) is an alternative manner to produce methane, requiring smaller reactor volume and less energy than liquid anaerobic digestion. However, SS-AD mechanisms are complex, and experimental tests are laborious. The proposal of this work is the development of mathematical models based on feedstock and inoculum characteristics, as well as SS-AD process parameters, in order to predict methane yield. Data were collected from literature works, and the models were obtained by simple and multiple linear regression. Models containing higher order terms, the inverse of variables and interactions among all eleven input variables were tested.

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59- Microbiological Indicators of Soil Quality Under Native Forests are Influenced by Topographic Factors
Authors: Anita F.S. Teixeira, Jacqueline S. Silva, Laíze A.F. Vilela, Patrícia F. Costa, Elaine M. da Costa, Amanda A. Guimarães, Jessé V. dos Santos, Sérgio H.G. Silva, Marco Aurélio C. Carneiro and Fatima M.S. Moreira

This work aimed to evaluate the variability of biological indicators of soil quality on a hillslope under native forest and the influence of topographic factors on them. The activity of the enzymes β-glucosidase, acid phosphatase, urease and Fluorescein Di-acetate (FDA) hydrolysis, as well as basal and substrate-induced respiration and density of selected groups of microorganisms in soil were determined at different hillslope positions. Microbiological indicators of soil quality varied according to hillslope positions. Urease, basal respiration, and some groups of microorganisms did not vary along with terrain attributes and are more adequate to indicate soil quality at varying topographical conditions.

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60- Modeling residual biomass from mechanized wood harvesting with data measured by forest harvester
Authors: Carla K. Rodrigues, Eduardo S. Lopes, Afonso Figueiredo Filho, Allan L. Pelissari and Matheus K.C. Silva

The lack of accurate models for estimating residual biomass in wood harvesting operations results in underutilization of this co-product. Thus, the aim of the study was to propose and evaluate statistical models to estimate residual biomass of Eucalyptus sp. in wood harvesting operations by means of tree variables measured from the harvester processing head. The models developed in this study are innovative tools to estimate the residual biomass in mechanized wood harvesting, in which can be inserted into the harvester’s hardware to provide real-time information for operational planning and logistics.

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61- Low frequency of antibodies anti-Neospora caninum in rodents in Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil
Authors: Débora C.V. de Lima, Renata P.B. de Melo, Muller R. Andrade, Adrianne M. de Alcântara, Fernando Jorge R. Magalhães, Jéssica C.S. Carvalho, Renato A. da Silva, Mateus M. da Costa and Rinaldo A. Mota

This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of Neospora caninum antibodies in rodents from Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil, and to contribute to epidemiological data on neosporosis in this region. Blood samples were collected from 154 black-rats (Rattus rattus) and 12 rock-cavies (Kerodon rupestris). The search for anti-N. caninum antibodies was made by NAT technique (cut-off of 1:20). The frequency of positive mice was 5.19% (8/154 - 1:20 titer) and all rock-cavies were negative. The low frequency of antibodies against N. caninum in rodents found in the Island shows the low contamination of the environment where these animals live.

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62- Potential of predatory Neotropical ladybirds and minute pirate bug on strawberry aphid
Authors: Natalia Francesena, Margarita Rocca, Estefanía Rizzo, Joel D. Arneodo and Nancy M. Greco

The Neotropical predators Cycloneda sanguinea, Eriopis connexa, Coleomegilla quadrifasciata and Orius insidiosus were evaluated as potential control agents of Chaetosiphon fragaefolii, an important strawberry pest. Likewise all predators were compared with predation on Aphis gossypii. The predation rate varied among predators, being significantly lower for O. insidiosus. Cycloneda sanguinea and E. connexa exhibited the highest suppression effect on the growth rate of C. fragaefolii. Consumption was higher on A. gossypii than on C. fragaefolii. The efficiency of all predators to reduce C. fragaefolli populations in the field would depend on its relative abundance in relation to that of A. gossypii.

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63- Potential of pepper plant accessions for ornamental purposes using diallel analysis
Authors: Angela M.S. Pessoa, Elizanilda R. do Rêgo, Cristine A.P. dos Santos, Michelle G. de Carvalho, Júlio C.P. de Mesquita and Mailson M. do Rêgo

The genus Capsicum is cultivated in various parts of the world, with C. annuum showing high diversity and potential for ornamental purposes and genetic improvement. The aim of this work was to evaluate the combining ability and heterosis of seedling and plant traits in accessions of ornamental pepper and their hybrids. Seven accessions of C. annuum were handcrossed and twelve quantitative plant traits were evaluated. Non-additive effects were found for seedling height, cotyledonous leaf length and width; stem diameter and chlorophyll b content. Other traits showed predominance of additive effects. Heterosis effects were found hybrids what showed seedlings that are vigorous.

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ENGINEERING SCIENCES

64- Semi-automated counting model for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi spores using the Circle Hough transform and an artificial neural network
Authors: Clênia A.O. de Melo, Juliane G. Lopes, Alexsandra O. Andrade, Roque M.P. Trindade and Robson S. Magalhães

This paper presents a semiautomatic count model of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) spore in slide images. The model is based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Images are preprocessed using the Circle Hough Transform (CHT) method. The results are applied to the training an ANN. The purpose of ANN is the automatic classification of patterns. The accuracy for the identification of spores by CHT, along with the classification of ANN in images, was satisfactory. The results indicate that this method can accurately detect the presence of AMF spores in images as well as count them with a high level of confidence.

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65- Practical rules for summing the series of the Tweedie probability density function with high-precision arithmetic
Authors: Nelson L. Dias and Paulo J. Ribeiro Jr

In this work we investigated new ways to calculate a probability density function called Tweedie. Probability density functions are used to calculate probabilities for different phenomena; the Tweedie is used to model problems in Ecology, Epidemiology, Genetics and Economy, under the general name of Taylor's law. The calculation of Tweedie densities is sometimes very difficult, because many terms have to be summed over many orders of magnitude. We studied the underlying reasons for these numerical problems, and suggested simple solutions with the help of high precision calculations with 300 decimal places.

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66- Effect of resin content and pressing temperature on banana pseudo-stem particle boards properties using full factorial design
Authors: Ana D. Barragán-Lucas, Cristhian Llerena-Miranda, Maria Fernanda Quijano-Avilés, Iván A. Chóez-Guaranda , Linda Maldonado-Guerrero and Patricia Manzano-Santana

This research applies full factorial design to determine the effect of temperature and resin content on particle board properties made of banana pseudo-stem. A 22 factorial design was performed, factors considered were: resin as 15-25%  in the coarse fiber (CF); 35-45% in fine fiber (FF) and  temperature as  150ºC and 170ºC. The boards met all parameters except the low resin content that didn’t meet water swelling (WS). Furthermore, resin affected positively on water absorption (WA), formaldehyde content (FC)  and module of elasticity (MOE), and decreased density, WS and module of rupture (MOR). Meanwhile, temperature affected negatively on density, WS, and increased FC, WA, MOE, MOR.

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SOCIAL SCIENCES

67- An anthropological analysis about primatology - Reports of a particular human-animal relationship with Capuchin monkeys
Authors: Eliane S. Rapchan and Walter A. Neves

This ethnography is about a particular human-animal relationship based on primatological research on wild robust capuchin monkeys living in Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho (Brazil), one of the largest preserved areas of Atlantic Tropical Forest in the world. It emphasizes the complex situations that highlight the difficulty of making this research because the forest is dense and the monkeys habits are predominately arboreal. This space integrate administrative, scientific and local interests, producing a unique cartography. The association between the primatological research and the “hunt” is a model and a metaphor to represent a complex routine elaborated to obtain behavior data.

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Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences
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