Newsletter - Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences

ISSUE 42

AABC - Volume 92.3 - 2020

The present issue of the Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences (AABC) shows 64 papers (and one letter) in a variety of fields. Most contributions come from Agrarian Sciences (26), followed by Engineering (14), and Chemical Sciences (10). There are also papers of Earth (5), Biological (5), Mathematical (2), Health Sciences (1), and Social Sciences (1).

As always, selecting highlights is quite difficult. Agrarian Sciences, the area with the highest growth rate in recent years at the AABC, shows articles on genetic studies of the so-called 'guava decline', the levels of fibers that are beneficial to microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract, 3-D food printing, optimization of wood supply, and niche differences of native and invasive tree species.

In Chemical Sciences, papers vary from a method that allows a quick establishment of ethanol in homeopathic medicines, studies on nanotechnology of different kinds, to technologies of characterization of soybean and rice hulls.

Regarding Earth Sciences, there is a contribution that studies the climate forecasts over South America using a specific model and the application of trace elements of industrial waste to improve soil.

Among Mathematical Sciences, an interesting paper presents a new continuous distribution designated transmuted Marshall-Olkin extended Lomax. Its application is quite exciting: modelling lifetime data.

I also would like to call your attention to a study that focuses on the impact of the agrarian reform in the Brazilian Midwest and a contribution regarding the QUALIS system of Brazil - two controversial topics.

Lastly, take a look at the editorial note, where the contributions of several areas to the bibliometric indexes of the AABC are briefly analyzed.

As always, please keep in mind that since 2000 all papers published by the AABC can be downloaded free of charge at the SciELO site and that previous editions of the Newsletter are available at the ABC website. Share them with your colleagues - there is certainly a paper of interest for their studies!

I now invite you to scroll through the text and click on the title of the articles that interest you!

Alexander W. A. Kellner
Editor-in-Chief

MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

1- The Transmuted Marshall-Olkin extended Lomax Distribution
Authors:  Renilma P. da Silva, Audrey Helen M.A. Cysneiros, Gauss M. Cordeiro & Claudio Javier Tablada

In this paper, we propose a new continuous distribution, named transmuted Marshall-Olkin extended Lomax, for modelling lifetime data. We provide some of its structural properties such as hazard function, moments, characteristic function, and order statistics. We consider the parameter estimation procedure by the maximum likelihood method and carry out a simulation study to assess its performance in small samples. We prove empirically the flexibility of the new model by means of an application to a real data set.

 Read here

2- Assessment of SNP-SNP interactions by using square contingency table analysis
Authors: Özge Karadağ, Gökçen Altun & Serpil Aktaş

The evolution of SNP-SNP interactions has become an interesting field in genetic epidemiology. Most of the studies, aimed to analyze the relationship between genetic factors and disease of interest, are focused on single SNP associations. However, interaction between the multi factors should be taken into consideration. In this study, symmetry models for square contingency tables are applied to the cross-classified SNP-SNP interactions data. 

 Read here

CHEMICAL SCIENCES

3- Multi-element composition, physicochemical and pollen attributes of honeys from the Paraguaçu River (Bahia, Brazil) by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES)
Authors: Aníbal F. Santos Júnior, Geovani C. Brandão, Manoelito C. Santos Júnior, Francisco A.R. dos Santos, Hemerson I.F. Magalhães & Maria Graças A. Korn

In this study, physicochemical characteristics, pollen spectrum and mineral composition of eighteen honey samples obtained from regions (Cachoeira, Coqueiros, Maragojipe and Santiago do Iguape) near the Paraguaçu River, Bahia, Brazil were evaluated using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES), after microwave digestion. Honey is a food of nutritional, medicinal and commercial importance. The mineral content of macro (Ca, K, Mg and Na) and micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn) varied among samples. This article contributes to the evaluation of honeys commercialized in Brazil and can be applied in the control of the physicochemical and toxicological quality of these foods.

 Read here

4- A green method for determination of ethanol in homeopathic medicines using thermal infrared enthalpimetry
Authors: Karolina C. Schlosser, Alessandra S. Oliveira, Mariane B. Fagundes, Roger Wagner, Renius O. Mello, Juliano S. Barin & Fabiana E.B. da Silva

In this work, a simple and fast method is proposed for the determination of ethanol content of homeopathic medicines using thermal infrared enthalpimetry (TIE). A design-of-experiments (DoE) was used for optimization of experimental conditions. The proposed method could be considered as a promising tool for fast ethanol determination in homeopathic medicines and it could be used in routine analyzes of these pharmaceuticals. In addition, it presents low cost and agreement with the principles of green analytical chemistry.

 Read here

5- Antioxidant activity and development of one chromatographic method to determine the phenolic compounds from Agroindustrial Pomace
Authors: Tatiane L.C. Oldoni, Rafaela C. da Silva, Solange T. Carpes, Adna P. Massarioli & Severino M. de Alencar

Available information on the polyphenolic and antioxidant substances from grape and apple pomaces produced in Brazil are still limited and scarce, hindering their valorization. This study optimized a methodology using High performance liquid performance for determination of phenolic profile from byproducts. The antioxidant activity was determined using Scavenging of synthetic free radicals, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and for the first time, online-HPLC-UV-ABTS. Overall, it is interesting to note that extracts of agroindustrial pomaces from Brazil are valuables sources of natural bioactive molecules and has properties that suggest applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

 Read here

6- Structural reorganization of CuO/ Cu₂ [Fe(CN)₆ ] nanocomposite: characterization and electrocatalytic effect for the hydrogen peroxide reduction
Authors: Wallonilson V. Rodrigues, Steffane Q. Nascimento, Wesley Y.S. Silva, Sanoelle F.L. Quinzeiro, Roberto A.S. Luz & Welter Cantanhêde

To the scientific community we present the unusual obtaining of the nanocomposite CuO/Cu₂[Fe(CN)₆], formed from CuO nanoparticles and Prussian Blue precursors. At the opportunity, an improvement in electrochemical and catalytic properties of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in comparison with its isolated components was observed. Thus, the study contemplates  many science areas such as Chemistry, Materials, Biology, Physics and Medicine. The results show that the synthesized systems are promising to the development of (bio)sensors and electronic devices.

 Read here

7-TiO₂ nanotubes decorated with Au nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation under UV-Visible and Visible Light Irradiations
Authors: Jean Claudio S. Costa, Noelia Franco, Thiago André S. Soares, Naythalla Angela M. Saraiva, Marco Aurélio S. Garcia, Johan Rene Gonzalez & Giovanna Machado

The development of stable and active TiO₂ nanotubes decorated with plasmonic gold nanoparticles represents a strategy for charge-transfer processes improvements. However, organic capping ligands used for nanoparticles synthesis usually remain on the surface of the metal, leading to poor Schottky junctions between Au and TiO₂. Herein, we report on the synthesis of a nanotubular matrix of TiO₂ decorated with gold without the need of ligands for photogeneration of H₂ under UV and visible light irradiations

 Read here

8- Levels of phenylpropanoids and iridoids in extracts and infusions of Verbena minutiflora
Authors: Kelly C.N. Soares, Karlos Eduardo Pianoski, Daiane Finger, Christiane S. Machado, Sueli P. Quináia & Yohandra R. Torres

Verbena genus comprises several medicinal plants traditionally known by their diuretic, expectorant, anti-rheumatic, anti-bacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant effects. Verbena minutiflora, popularly known in Brazil as “gervão”, is worldwide consumed as an infusion for the treatment of various diseases, such as urinary and infectious disorders. In the current study, we determined the levels of iridoids, phenylpropanoids and verbascoside in extracts and infusions of V. minutiflora. The reliability of the results was guaranteed by in house analytical validation of the HPLC-DAD method. The high levels of bioactive metabolites found in infusions and extracts of V. minutiflora support its popular use.

 Read here

9- Treatment and characterization of biomass of soybean and rice hulls using ionic liquids for the liberation of fermentable sugars
Authors: Fernanda da Cunha-Pereira, Carla R. Matte, Tania M.H. Costa, Jairton Dupont & Marco Antônio Z. Ayub

The development of innovative technologies to change the global energy matrix has been developed as one great challenge of science. The production of second-generation ethanol still needs the advancement of techniques of decomposition of agro-industrial waste as a raw material to enable its production, without competing with the food chain. The focus of this work was to test the use of ionic liquids – chemical compounds of the so-called "green chemistry" – to improve the process of destructuring of cellulose and hemicellulose of plant matrices in order to optimize their hydrolysis in the release of fermentable sugars for application in alcoholic fermentations.

 Read here

10- Phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of infusions herbs: Optimization of phenolic extraction and HPLC-DAD method
Authors: Bárbara E.A. de Magalhães & Walter N.L. dos Santos

The consumption of foods rich in phenolic compounds has been related to the prevention of several diseases associated with oxidative stress, which has been attributed to the properties of these compounds, mainly to the antioxidant activity. Due to the potential beneficial health effects, interest in foods rich in phenolic antioxidants is growing. The teas stand out because their preparation favors the extraction of the plant's phenolics, making these drinks excellent sources of natural antioxidants. In this work, the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of herbal infusions (fennel, anise, peppermint, lemon grass and lemon balm) popularly consumed in Brazil were investigated.

 Read here

11- Partial inclusion of bis (1,10-phenanthroline)silver(I) salicylate in β-cyclodextrin:  Spectroscopic characterization, in vitro and in silico antimicrobial evaluation
Authors: Edwin Briñez-Ortega, Vera L. de Almeida, Julio C.D. Lopes & Ana E. Burgos

A new partial inclusion complex of bis(1,10-phenanthroline)silver(I) salicylate in β-cyclodextrin (â-CD) was synthesized in a good yield, and characterized by FTIR, NMR (¹H-¹H COSY), TGA/DSC, CHN and XRD. Non-covalent interactions in the formation of the partial inclusion compound [â-CD and bis(1,10-phenanthroline)silver(I) salicylate (Ag(phen)₂]salH)] were considered. In silico prediction of 1,10-phenanthroline activitieswas carried out and the data suggests potential targets involving antimicrobial effect of compound and its complex. The inclusion compound showed higher inhibiting growth of Candida albicans than [Ag(phen)₂]salH indicating that the formation of the complex with β-CD increases bioavailability of antimicrobial active species [Ag(phen)₂]+ of the new silver(I) compound.

 Read here

12- Characterization, fractionation and mobility of trace elements in surface sediments of the Jequiezinho River, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Darci S. Silva, Uilliam M.F.M. Cerqueira, Rosane M. Aguiar, Paulo Luis S. Carneiro & Marcos A. Bezerra

This paper approaches the evaluation of the geochemical distribution and potential mobility of metals in sediments collected at different points along the Jequiezinho River, an intermittent river that crosses the semi-arid region of the municipality of Jequié (Bahia, Brazil). Results have indicated that, calcium, magnesium, manganese and iron are predominantly of geochemical origin, more susceptible to mobility between the fractions that compose the sediments and presenting the highest bioavailability. Multivariate analysis techniques show that the highest concentrations of chromium, nickel, copper, cobalt, lead and zinc are related to points located in the urban area indicating anthropogenic contributions.

 Read here

EARTH SCIENCES

13- New species of Myrmicium Westwood (Psedosiricidae = Myrmiciidae: Hymenoptera, Insecta) from the Early Cretaceous (Aptian) of the Araripe Basin, Brazil
Authors: Luís C.B. Freitas, Alexandr P. Rasnitsyn, Geraldo J.B. Moura & Marcio Mendes

The paper records the first occurrence of the genus Myrmicium Westwood, 1854 in the Cretaceous of Gondwana and describes it as a new species Myrmicium araripterum sp. nov, based on the most complete specimen of this genus yet known, which represents the largest specimen of the grade “Symphyta” ever found in the Crato Formation.

 Read here

14- Field and remote observations to determine the environmental impact of agrarian reform in the Brazilian Midwest
Authors: Alencar G. Bacarji, Olivier F. Vilpoux & Antonio C. Paranhos Filho

The paper aim was to characterize the impact of agrarian reform, on environmental preservation and agriculture, on each biome of the Brazilian Midwest. The remote observation allowed to estimate the percentage of forests and savannah present in the settlements of the Midwest, verifying compliance with Brazilian environmental legislation. The field research permitted to verify the state of environmental reserves and production areas in the settlements, complementing the remote observation.  To conclude, a correlation analysis identifies the variables that influence the area of environmental preservation in the settlements.

 Read here

15- Ten-year seasonal climate reforecasts over South America using the Eta Regional Climate Model
Authors: Sin Chan Chou, Claudine Dereczynski, Jorge Luís Gomes, José Fernando Pesquero, Ana Maria H. de Avila, Nicole C. Resende, Luís Felipe Alves, Ramiro Ruiz-Cárdenas, Carlos Renato de Souza & Josiane Ferreira F. Bustamante

Ten-year seasonal climate reforecasts over South America, produced by the 40-km Eta Regional Model, are evaluated. The 5-member ensemble is comprised of 4-month seasonal forecasts for 2001-2010. The seasonal mean precipitation (Prec) and 2-meter temperature (Temp) forecasts are compared with observations. In general, Prec (Temp) is underestimated in the center (most) of the continent during the austral summer (year). Higher (lower) skill occurs in the northern (southern) part of the continent. During El Niño and La Niña, the forecast skill scores increase. The Eta model seasonal forecasts provide added value over the driver global model, especially during rainy periods.

 Read here

16- Phosphorus and suspended matter retention in mangroves affected by shrimp farm effluents in NE Brazil
Authors: Rozane V. Marins, Luiz D. Lacerda, Isabel Cristina S. Araújo, Louize V. Fonseca & Francisco A.T.F. Silva

This study compares two mangroves with different land uses in the Jaguaribe River estuary, harboring large shrimp farms, and in the more pristine Pacotí River estuary. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index was used to compare the overall health of the forests. Measures of suspended matter, total, particulate and soluble reactive phosphorus in the inflow and outflow waters of tidal channels draining the mangroves were performed during tidal cycles, which suggests that mangrove phosphorus accumulation is decreased in the forest with lower NDVI and limits mangrove’s potential

 Read here

17- Evaluation of Trace Elements from Used Industrial Waste in Soil improvement
Author: Ismail Zorluer

In this study, trace elements originating from industrial wastes contaminating groundwater are investigated. The industrial wastes were mixed at different proportions with the soil. These mixtures were compacted into a permeameter cells, and leachates obtained from these samples. The leachates were analyzed to determine trace elements. The measured trace element quantities were compared with the allowable values in the relevant standards. The results reveal that quantitative values of the trace elements from the leachates were within the allowable limits, except for arsenic and chromium.

 Read here

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

18- Description of the immature stages of Stenocrates agricola Dechambre & Hardy (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae: Cyclocephalini) with redescription of the adult and discussion of its tribal position
Authors: Mario G. Ibarra-Polesel, Jhon C. Neita-Moreno & Brett C. Ratcliffe

In the present study, the larva of the third instar and pupa of Stenocrates agricola Dechambre & Hardy are described. The adult is also redescribed, significantly expanding the number of characters. In addition, 28 species of Cyclocephalini and 20 species of Pentodontini are morphologically compared, emphasizing the most useful larval characters used among these beetles. Stenocrates agricola shows frequent and common characters of Pentodontini species but scarce (and even absent) characters typical of Cyclocephalini species. Accordingly, we consider that the tribal position of Stenocrates remains controversial and more study is needed to clarify the tribal status of Stenocrates.

 Read here

19- Influence of depth on bryozoan richness and distribution from the continental  shelf of the northern coast of Bahia State, north-eastern Brazil
Authors:  Ana C.S. Almeida, Facelucia B.C. Souza, Leandro M. Vieira & Marcos M. Nogueira

Bryozoans are aquatic colonial invertebrates very common in benthic communities, particularly in marine environments. This study verified the influence of bathymetry on bryozoan richness on the shore of Bahia State, north-eastern Brazil, being the first ecological study with bryozoans from the area. 57 taxa, comprising 35 families and 50 genera were identified. Species growing as encrusting sheets were dominant at all depths. Highest values of richness were found at 40 meters and shallower assemblages composition varied much than deeper assemblages. Since depth is a proxy for several environmental parameters, further studies are needed to identify other factors influencing bryozoan distribution.

 Read here

20- Ecology, interactions and human perceptions of Cerdocyon thous in rural landscapes in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Letícia T. da Silva, Anna Carla F.F. de Souza & Luiz Augustinho M. da Silva

This work reports the positive and negative interactions of human populations with fox, Cerdocyon thous, a medium-sized carnivore in rural landscapes in the northeastern Brazil. The positive aspects mentioned were categorized in forms of use: craftwork, medicinal, mystical-religious activities, and companionship. However, they also reported conflicts because of transmission of diseases, death of domesticated animals and consequent negative economic impact, as well as attacks against humans and other animals. Therefore, this work reports the ecological knowledge of rural communities, in addition to addressing issues of use of wildlife resources and the risk of disease transmission associated with this practice.

 Read here

21- QUALIS: The journal ranking system undermining the impact of Brazilian science
Author: Rodolfo Jaffé

The QUALIS system uses a complicated suit of criteria to create journal rankings with which to evaluate graduate programs across Brazil. Here I assess the influence of this journal ranking system on the impact of Brazilian science. Brazil shows a steeper decrease in the number of citations per document since the implementation of QUALIS, compared to the top Latin American countries publishing more scientific articles. All subject areas showed some degree of bias, with social sciences being usually more biased than natural sciences. These results suggest that QUALIS has created incentives to publish in low-impact journals ranked highly by QUALIS.

 Read here

22- Pollen morphology of family Solanaceae and its taxonomic significance
Authors: Shomaila Ashfaq, Mushtaq Ahmad, Muhammad Zafar, Shazia Sultana, Saraj Bahadur, Sidra N. Amed, Saba Gul & Moona Nazish

In this research we report the pollen micro-morphology of family Solanaceae from the different phytogeographical region of Pakistan. Solanaceae a significant variation in pollen size, shape, polarity and exine sculpturing. Examined plant species includes, Brugmansia suaveolens, Capsicum annuum, Cestrum parqui, Datura innoxia, Solanum lycopersicum, Nicotiana plumbaginifolia, Petunia hybrida, Physalis minima, Solanum americanum, Solanum erianthum, Solanum melongena, Solanum surattense and Withania somnifera. The findings highlight the importance of Palyno-morphological features in the characterization and identification of Solanaceous taxa. It is concluded that both LM and SEM significantly play a key role in correct identification of taxa studied.

 Read here

HEALTH SCIENCES

23- Pharmacological and toxicological evaluation of two anti-asthmatic polyherbal formulations
Authors: Uzma Saleem, Maryam Usman, Fareeha Anwar, Muhammad Furqan Akhtar & Bashir Ahmad

Herbal products are being sold by manufacturers without having data on their safety study in South Asian countries. Keeping in view this point, two polyherbal products (PH1 & PH2) were selected for their toxicity evaluation adopting International OECD guideline No. 425 to ensure safety of the product. The drugs/natural products having LD50 greater than 2000 mg/kg are considered safest. In our study both products are safe at human consumable dose i.e. one tablet daily but it may cause damage in liver and kidney when dose levels are parallel to 2000 mg/Kg. Next their efficacy as anti-asthmatic was compared. 

 Read here

AGRARIAN SCIENCES

24- Genetic structuring of segregating populations of Psidium spp resistant to the southern root-knot nematode by Bayesian approach as basis for the guava breeding program
Authors: Raiane M. Santos, Alexandre P. Viana, Eileen A. Santos, Ricardo M. de Souza, Odimar F. de Almeida, Vicente M. Gomes, Daniele L. Rodrigues & Paulo Ricardo dos Santos

Guava is found in practically the entire Brazilian territory; however it has been affected by a disease known as the 'guava decline', which eradicates numerous orchards of this fruit. This result in huge economic impacts for producers, once the losses are estimated to reach over $ 70 million⁴. Hybrids between guava and araçá have been generated as an alternative to prevent losses and the devastation of guava orchards across Brazil. To save time and accelerate the response of the programs, breeders make use of auxiliary tools such as molecular markers. Therefore microsatellite markers were used for the genetic-molecular characterization of segregating populations of Psidium resistant to M. enterolobii, allowing at selection within and between populations for generation advancement in the guava breeding program.

 Read here

25- Productive performance response of growing rabbits to dietary protein reduction and supplementation of pyridoxine, protease, and zinc
Authors: Adham A. Al-Sagheer, Gamal Abdel-Rahman, Mohamed S. Ayyat, Hassan A. Gabr & Gihan F. Elsisi

Dietary protein represents a substantial cost in rabbit rations. To face this challenge, this work was conducted to assess the beneficial effects of vitamin B6, zinc oxide or protease at low and high protein diet in growing rabbits. The results concluded that the growing rabbit responded positively to all tested supplement at low or high protein diet without any adverse effect on blood constituents so it could be used safely. Thus, from both health and an economic point of view, several benefits might be gained by adding these additives to the diet of commercial rabbits, especially with low protein diets.

 Read here

26- Climate risk and seasonal forage production of Marandu palisadegrass in Brazil
Authors: Henrique B. Brunetti, Pórtya P. Cavalcanti, Carlos Tadeu S. Dias, José Ricardo M. Pezzopane & Patrícia M. Santos

This study aimed to characterize Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu seasonality and its variation yearlong throughout Brazil. Data from weather stations in Brazil were associated with empirical herbage accumulation rate model which considers growing degree-days adjusted by drought attenuation index. Simulations were performed under 20, 40, 60 and 100 mm soil water holding capacities. HAR's means and standard deviations were calculated for seasons of the year. Cluster analysis and calculations were performed to gather similar weather stations and characterize seasonality and climate risk indexes. Winter presented the lowest production and highest climate risk index. The northeast presented seasonality index that ranged from medium high to very high and low productions.

 Read here

27- Fiber levels in laying quail diets
Authors:  Adélio N. Dias, Túlio L. Reis, Juan Carlos P. Quintero & Ligia F.L. Calixto

Fiber promotes beneficial effects on the microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract, being a matter of recent interest in poultry nutrition. In our experiment, the use of crude fiber supplementation in the diet of laying quails influenced water consumption, feed conversion, pigmentation and lipid concentration of the yolk and the morphometry of the duodenum and mucosa of the cecum. There is no interference in the other performance parameters, egg quality, gizzard weight, small intestine and cecum and excreta moisture.

 Read here

28- Temperament and performance of Nellore bulls classified for residual feed intake in a feedlot system
Authors: Tiago P. Guimarães, João Restle, Kíria Karolline G. Moreira, Marcondes D. de Freitas Neto, Leonardo Frederico N. Souza, Émerson G. Moraes & Juliano José de R. Fernandes

This study aimed to evaluate the performance in feedlot and temperament of Nellore bulls classified by residual feed intake. The residual feed intake was calculated as the difference between the observed and predicted dry matter intake. Bulls classified as low residual feed intake had lower dry matter intake and dry matter intake of body weight. No differences were observed in flight speed and reactivity score among residual feed intake classes. Overall, we concluded that bulls classified as low residual feed intake consumed less dry matter than high, with no differences in average daily gain, temperament and had better feed efficiency, albeit their subcutaneous fat thickness was lower.

 Read here

29- 3D food printing: paving way towards novel foods
Authors: Somya Singhal, Prasad Rasane, Sawinder Kaur, Umar Garba, Akshay Bankar, Jyoti Singh & Neeru Gupta

3D food printing, also known as a part of additive manufacturing technique is used to modify the process of the food manufacturing in terms of color, shape, flavor, texture and nutrition. It helps to identify and modify their meal according to one’s desire, matching to very minute details. Currently, it is used in decorating and fabricating, food products. The process of printing foods depends on several factors such as the physical state of food, size and shape of the syringes to be used and the composition of the ingredients. It can also play an important role in solving nutrition related problem.

 Read here

30- Supplemental phytase derived from E. coli in different concentrations on performance, bone mineralization and cost of broilers diets
Authors: Gabriel V. Dessimoni, Nilva K. Sakomura, Daniella Carolina Z. Donato, Larissa Vargas, Mirella Melaré, Letícia Pacheco & Felipe S. Dalólio

The trial was conducted to evaluate the supplementation of E. coli phytase on performance, weight and ash of bones, as well as to determine the bioavailability of P and cost/benefit of its use in diets. A total 1,890 Cobb male day old chicks were assigned to six treatments and seven replicates with 45 birds each, distributed in a completely randomized designWith different phytase inclusions, it was possible to verify a gradual increase on body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, viability and even the bone characteristics of broilers fed diets containing reduction of P. The closest levels to the highest studied (240 OTU) showed the best results.

 Read here

31- Enterotoxigenic potential of Staphylococcus spp. isolates recovered from raw milk and artisanal cheese
Authors: Fernanda Danielle Melo, Ricardo Antonio P. Sfaciotte, Karine A. Dalmina, Paula Wildemann, Leandro Parussolo, Sheila R. Wosiacki, Ubirajara M. da Costa & Sandra Maria Ferraz

In this study investigated the phenotypic profile of Staphylococcus spp. isolates recovered from raw milk and artisanal cheese, and their enterotoxigenic potential through the detection of classical enterotoxin genes. A total of 104 isolates (58 CoPS and 46 CoNS) were used. Among the 58 CoPS analyzed, 64% were identified as S. aureus, 22% as S. scheiferi coagulans, 12% as S. hyicus and 2% as S. intermedius. In the study was noted that 40% of CoPS harbored seb gene, while only one was positive for gene sea. In this study all CoNS samples investigated were negative for enterotoxins genes.

 Read here

32- Production of nutrients in dual-purpose wheat pastures managed with different doses of nitrogen as topdressing – exponential model
Authors:  Luiz Carlos Timm, Ione Maria P. Haygert-Velho, Delvacir  R. Bolke, Dileta Regina M. Alessio, Marcos Busanello, Sirineu José Sicheski, Cássio Rodrigo Gehrke & João Pedro Velho

The aims of this study were to evaluate the yield and composition of dual-purpose wheat pasture BRS Tarumã managed with various urea nitrogen (N) doses and validate an exponential model and compare nutrient production costs. The completely randomized design had four replications per treatment. For the 350 and 450 kg ha^-1 treatments, the cycle was 212 d whereas that of the control was 167 d. The degree-days method determined a daily accumulation rate 652% higher than the control. The levels of dry matter and other nutrients in BRS Tarumã wheat pasture were influenced by the doses of nitrogen in the topdressing under the same environmental conditions

 Read here

33- Season effects on the suckling behavior of piglets
Authors: Rennan H.R. Moreira, Rodrigo F. Oliveira, Jorge Y.P. Palencia, Leonardo S. Fonseca, Cesar Augusto P. Garbossa, Márvio L.T. Abreu & Rony A. Ferreira

Behavior of animals are affected by several factors, but one of the most impactful is the environment in which they find themselves. In this sense, it is important to understand how the seasons can affect the behavior of piglets, especially the suckling behavior that will impacts on its health and performance. In our trial, during winter piglets keep suckling longer during night, however, in summer, piglets suckled more often during the night, with greater interval between feeds during the day. Understanding the behaviour of animals is important to outline strategies to ensure better, health, performance, and welfare for animals.

 Read here

34- Incidence of pale, soft and exudative (PSE) pork meat in reason of extrinsic stress factors
Authors: Laura Trevisan & Juliana S. Brum

The incidence of PSE (pale, soft and exudative) pork meat is directly influenced by extrinsic factors, compromising meat quality, and resulting in economic losses for industry. Besides genetics, the main extrinsic stress factors that have influence on PSE meat appearance are: long period of fasting, transport from farm to slaughterhouse and rest in lairage, loading and unloading animals and social regrouping. In this manuscript, to evaluate these factors on PSE meat incidence and to determine the time intervals with lower incidence, pH of 1038 carcasses was measured at 45 minutes post mortem (pH₄₅) in a pig slaughterhouse in Paraná, Brazil.

 Read here

35- Growth curve of selectively bred and non-selectively bred tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum)
Authors:  Rebeca Marcos, Ricardo P. Ribeiro, Janessa S. de Abreu, Darci C. Fornari, Carlos A.L. de Oliveira, Danilo P. Streit Jr, Caio M.C.A. de Barros, Nelson M. Lopera-Barrero, Ruy A.C. Corrêa Filho & Jayme A. Povh

The experiment involved 388 fish (weight: 65.38 ± 20.00 g; age: 217 days), consisting of 252 fish from seven selectively bred families (18 fish per family) and 18 non-selectively bred fish (control group). Biometric measurements were taken on nine occasions at 30-day intervals. Greater growth (p < 0.05) was observed in selectively bred families compared with control group. None of the selectively bred families (except F5) had a higher growth rate and age at inflection point than the fish from control group. In conclusion, selectively bred and non-selectively bred fish present distinct growth curves.

 Read here

36- Optimization of a process for microgreen and fruit-based functional beverage
Authors: Priyanka Sharma, Anjali Sharma, Prasad Rasane, Anirban Dey, Asish Choudhury, Jyoti Singh, Sawinder Kaur, Kajal Dhawan & Damanpreet Kaur

Microgreen based functional juice blends containing fenugreek, kinnow mandarin and aloe vera in different ratios were blended with sorbitol and stevia. The different ratios of juice blends were analyzed for total soluble solids, sedimentation, viscosity and titrable acidity. They were also screened for total phenolic content, total carotenoid content and antioxidant properties such as DPPH, reducing power and metal chelating activity. The formulation with highest TPC, TCC and antioxidant property was selected to optimize a microgreen based functional juice Antioxidant helps in reducing diabetic complications by reducing the oxidative stress and because of their protective action against reactive oxygen species.

 Read here

37- Functional niche differences between native and invasive tree species from the southern Brazilian mixed forest
Authors:  Janaina G. Larsen, Guilherme D. Fockink, Catieli L. Redin, Cezário F. Santos Júnior, Charline Zangalli, Claudio T.C. Correoso, Guilherme N. dos Santos, Taynara O.L. Buss, Vanderlei dos Santos, Ana Carolina da Silva & Pedro Higuchi

Biological invasion is a pervasive expression of the Anthropocene and a significant threat to global biodiversity. We examined how native and non-native invasive trees share the functional niche space in the Southern Brazilian subtropical mixed forest, part of an important global hotspot for biodiversity conservation - the Atlantic Forest. We concluded that the functional dissimilarity as a critical factor in invasion success, could not be generalized for all species and traits.

 Read here

38- Pasta waste in the feeding of meat quail
Authors: Jussiede S. Santos, Maria do Carmo M.M. Lüdke, Wilson M.D. Júnior, Julia S. Barros, Juliane G. Viapiana, Clariana S. Santos, Carlos Bôa-Viagem Rabello & Marcos J.B. dos Santos

The present study addresses the use of pasta waste in meal form as an energy source in diets for meat quails. Given the absence of findings in the literature about the subject, it is relevant for the area under examination. Through this study we aimed to check the viability of the activity from the standpoint of production performance, carcass characteristics and economic analysis quail fed diets with the tested ingredient. Results indicated that pasta waste can be used in diets for meat quails without affecting their production performance, carcass characteristics and improve the economic variables.

 Read here

39- Improving nutrient availability of defatted rice bran using different phytase sources applied to grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) diet
Authors: Edi F. Ries, Cristiano C. Ferreira, Fernanda R. Goulart, Naglezi M. Lovatto, Bruno B. Loureiro, Ana B.B. Bender, Gabriela A. Macedo & Leila P. da Silva

The use of phytase at a concentration of 550 FTU kg^-1 of rice bran could replace supplementation with external phosphorus sources and may also improve nutritional quality, thereby benefiting the fish performance. Phosphorus availability of the defatted rice bran resulting from the phytase inclusion in diets irrespective of its source also contributes to the reduction of environmental pollution as it significantly reduces the excretion of underused phosphorus. Moreover, the use of phytase could contribute to the reduction of traditional phosphorus sources in fish diets.

 Read here

40- Optimization of Wood Supply: The Forestry Routing Optimization Model
Authors: Cassio A.U. Monti, Lucas R. Gomide, Rafael M. Oliveira & Luciano C.J. França

This study explored the complexity of the vehicle routing problem under the view of forest logistic system and present the Forest Routing Optimization Model (FRoM) to solve it in a real-case study. The FRoM considered two model reasoning into one feature, the single and multiple route strategies, regarding truck displacement and introduced the cranes modeling to the forest logistic problem. The FRoM provided reduction of 49.12% in the total cost of transportation by reducing the truck fleet, eliminating overtime, and increasing the efficiency of the transportation. Therefore, it can be used as a tool for forest logistic planning.

 Read here

41- Chemical composition and nutrient digestibility of insect meal for broiler
Authors: Leilane R.B. Dourado, Patrícia M. Lopes, Vanessa Karla Silva, Francisca Luana A. Carvalho, Francinete A.S. Moura, Luciana B. Silva, Luiz Gustavo Giannecchini, Sandra Regina F. Pinheiro, Daniel Biagiotti & Janaina M. Kimpara

Chemical composition and digestibility of Tenebrio molitor larvae (TL) and nymphs of Gryllus assimilis (GAN) for broilers was evaluated with a digestibility trial (total excreta collection), substituting 20% of the reference diet with each type of meal. The meals presented 6074 and 5975 kcal/Kg of gross energy, with 49.34% and 52.66% protein for TL and GAN respectively. The most nutrient digestibility was less than 65%, except for energy and ether-extract digestibility in the meal from Tenebrio molitor larvae, which were over 70%. The meals under analysis can be used as a source of nutrients in poultry diets.

 Read here

42- Low auxin sensitivity of diageotropica tomato mutant alters nitrogen deficiency response
Authors: Luiz C.N. dos Santos, Lucas A. Gaion, Renato M. Prado, Rafael F. Barreto & Rogério F. Carvalho

Plant responses to nitrogen supply are dependent on auxin signaling, but the mechanisms underlying this interaction have not yet been revealed. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate how low auxin sensitivity regulates the responses of tomato plants to nitrogen deficiency. In this work, we grow the auxin-resistant dgt tomato mutant and tomato cv. Micro-Tom plants under nitrogen sufficiency or deficiency, to provide breakthroughs about the underlying mechanisms implicated in the interactions between auxin signaling and nitrogen uptake and use. We concluded that, under nitrogen deficiency, dgt plants exhibited improved nitrogen accumulation and nitrogen use efficiency.    

 Read here

43- Callus culture as a new approach for the production of high added value compounds in Ilex paraguariensis: genotype influence, medium optimization and compounds identification
Authors: Renata Lúcia Grunennvaldt, Juliana Degenhardt-Goldbach, Peter Brooks, Jéssica de Cássia Tomasi, Fabrício Augusto Hansel, Trong Tran, Erik N. Gomes & Cícero Deschamps

By the first time, we described the production of bioactive compounds from yerba mate in vitro conditions, by using callus culture. We compared 10 clones and tested different plant growth regulators for callus growth. We measured the callus biomass accumulation and we assessed the antioxidant activity and the production of secondary compounds. We found that yerba mate callus culture can produce high-valued compounds such as chlorogenic acids.

 Read here

44- Somatic embryogenesis from leaf tissues of macaw palm [Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart.]
Authors: Filipe S. Meira, Zanderluce G. Luis, Inaê Mariê de A.S. Cardoso & Jonny E. Scherwinski-Pereira

The macaw palm is a native palm tree found in practically the entire Brazilian territory. It has several uses, but the main interest is in the supply of vegetable oil extracted from the seeds. Due to growing demand for its fruit, it has been indiscriminately harvested from natural populations. In this work, in an unprecedented way and for the first time in the literature, the possibility of cloning adult plants in the laboratory is reported. The results obtained indicate new possibilities for the species, either for use in cloning selected plants or as a tool to assist genetic improvement programs.

 Read here

45- Effect of dietary crude glycerin on the productive performance of Nile tilapia fingerlings
Authors:  Rafael E. Balen, William F. Carneiro, Katsciane A. Rossato, Lilian C.R. Silva & Fábio Meurer

In this work we evaluated the effect of different crude glycerin levels (0, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20%) in the diet of Nile tilapia fingerlings on growth performance, whole-body composition, blood glucose and liver histology. The inclusion of crude glycerin resulted in positive effects on final weight, visceral fat, weight gain, feed conversion and specific growth rate. Significant differences were also found in the hepatocytes area and the whole-body moisture and ash contents, with no changes in the crude protein and lipid contents, glycemia and survival rate. In short, crude glycerin improves growth performance of the Nile tilapia fingerlings.

 Read here

46- Microencapsulated carvacrol and cinnamaldhyde replace growth-promoting antibiotics: Effect on performance and meat quality in broiler chickens
Authors:  Gilnei E. Bosetti, Letieri Griebler, Edemar Aniecevski, Caroline S. Facchi, Cintiamara Baggio, Gabriel Rossatto, Felipe Leite, Fernanda D.A. Valentini, Alicia D. Santo, Heloísa Pagnussatt, Marcel M. Boiago & Tiago G. Petrolli

A microencapsulated mixture of carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde as a replacement for growth-promoting antibiotics in broiler diets on performance, intestinal and meat quality were evaluated. Negative Control group (NC), Positive Control group (PC) 30 mg/kg of virginiamycin, NC+100 mg/kg of essential oils, NC+200 mg/kg of essential oils and NC+400 mg/kg of essential oils groups were tested. Birds received essential oils achieved performance equivalent to those birds received PC diets, better than NC broilers. Higher villus:cript ratio was found in PC, NC+200 and NC+400 groups. Microencapsulated carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde can replace growth-promoting antibiotic in broiler diets, ensuring performance, intestinal and meat quality.

 Read here

47- Genetic structure and diversity of native Guadua species (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) in natural populations of the Brazilian Amazon rainforest
Authors: Susana M.M. Silva, Karina Martins, Frederico H.S. Costa, Tatiana de Campos & Jonny E. Scherwinski-Pereira

Guadua is the most important bamboo genus in Americas. Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela are considered centers of origin of this genus, and there is a great diversity of species. The state of Acre has forests dominated by bamboo that are considered as the planet’s largest natural reserves with Guadua. However, the level of knowledge of these bamboos is still low. In this unprecedented work, we seek to study the genetic diversity of natural populations of species of this genus. The results obtained provide important subsidies for the conservation, management, and sustainable use of the studied species.

 Read here

48- Isolation and identification of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for fermentation of rice polishing in Livestock feeding
Authors: Muhammad Sharif, Muhammad H. Zafar, Sajjad Ur Rahman, Sidra Anam, Khurram Ashfaq & Amjad I. Aqib

Nutrition is a major cost factor in any livestock production system. Out of all nutrients, protein is the most expensive one. For many decades, many conventional protein sources have been used which are not sufficient now to cope up with increasing pace of production of modern animals. Moreover, these sources are expensive as well. This article describes how we can convert a low protein ingredient i.e. rice polishing into a protein rich ingredient using a fairly economical methodology and a much safer Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Final product can be conveniently used in livestock feeding.

 Read here

49- Floristic patterns of alluvial forests in Atlantic Forest and Pampa: climate and geographic insertion as determining factors
Authors: Jéssica O. Silva, Franklin Galvão, Ana Carolina Silva & Pedro Higuchi

This study aimed to contribute to the knowledge on Brazilian alluvial forests by evaluating areas in the central-southern region of the Atlantic Forest and Pampa biomes. The results show that these forests are divided in two floristic groups, mainly related to drainage basins (Atlantic and Paraná-Uruguay) and migration routes. Species in the Atlantic group had higher cohesion and more indicator species, among which Andira fraxinifolia stood out. The areas in the Paraná-Uruguay basin were more dissimilar, with less indicator species, among which Gymnanthes klotzschiana stood out. The main gradients associated with these habitats are temperature, rainfall, and altitude.

 Read here

ENGINEERING SCIENCES

50- Seasonal assessment of water quality parameters in Mirim Lagoon, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil
Authors:  Fernanda Pires Pinto, Mylena Feitosa Tormam, Carina Krüger Bork, Hugo Alexandre Soares Guedes & Luisa Barbosa Pinto da Silva

This paper evaluated the qualitative effects of climatic seasonality in a subtropical lagoon using Discriminant Analysis, as well to identify the most sensitive and responsible parameters for these changes. The Mirim Lagoon watershed is one of the main transboundary basins in South America and is of great economic importance for Southern Brazil, as its waters have multiple uses. The results obtained allowed us to conclude that human actions have been influencing the water quality of this important freshwater source. This study is expected to improve the planning of activities and the qualitative management of water in the lagoon.

 Read here

51- Assessment of Drug Flow Rate in Skin Cancer Therapy for Enhancing the Drug Delivery System
Authors: Mrunalini Thanaraj, Rajasekar Rathanasamy & Prakash M. Jeganathan

Skin Cancer is the one most common type of cancer. Researchers are performing studies on most of the cancer types to support medical needs for the early recognition and diagnosis of the disease. Drug delivery mechanism through proper administration is another crucial process to cure diseases. The proposed work attempts to understand the mathematical behavior of the skin in drug diffusion mechanism. The complexity in drug delivery can be handled by the development of mathematical modeling of the suitable region where drug can be diffused. The flow rate of drug through several layers of skin is observed using conventional controller.

 Read here

52- Complexity Engineering: New ideas for engineering design and engineering education
Authors: Mauro Zilbovicius, José Roberto C. Piqueira & Laerte Sznelvar

This paper presents a theoretical approach to complexity engineering by considering the complex thinking framework proposed by Edgar Morin. The main foundations of this approach are an open system design, emergence, randomness inclusion, and Gödel incompleteness, which are contextualized using real-word instructive problems. Considering these concepts, several conjectures related to engineering activity and engineering education are presented taking several Brazilian catastrophes as counterexamples.

 Read here

53- Characterization of noise emitted by a low-profile tractor and its influence on the health of rural workers
Authors: Luana M. dos Santos, Gabriel A.S. Ferraz, Marcelo L. Batista, Fabiano B.S. Martins & Brenon D.S. Barbosa

Noise is one of the main physical agents found in the rural work environment, in which it can cause damage to the health of workers exposed to it. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution of the noise emitted by a tractor. The experiment was developed using a tractor with and without the activation of a rotary cutter.  It was observed that both without and with activation of the implement presented noise levels above the limit recommended by the Regulatory Standard, as well as this study, identified the unhealthy areas for the recommendation of hearing protectors.

 Read here

54- Two steps CrAlFeSi coating on low carbon steel prepared by mechanical alloying and its oxidation properties
Authors: Didik Aryanto, Alfian Noviyanto, Risma Y. Sundawa, Toto Sudiro, Agus S. Wismogroho, Wahyu B. Widayatno & Perdamean Sebayang

Oxidation of the metal at high-temperature applications is inevitable due to the reaction between metal and oxygen in the air. Therefore, the protection of metal is necessary for the application that operates in the elevated temperature. Among the coating technology, mechanical alloying is one of the simple technology for the coating of metal. Two steps of mechanical alloying were performed to coat the metal. The results revealed that the coated metal has better resistance to the oxidation compared to the uncoated metal. Good resistance to oxidation is due to the formation of the protective layer in the coated metal.

 Read here

55- Trade-off between number of constraints and primary-statement robustness in entropy models: the case of the open-channel velocity field
Authors: Antonio Viana da Silva Filho, José Carlos de Araújo & Armin Raabe

In this research, the performance of hydrodynamic models based on entropy were evaluated. It was also assessed whether it is better to use a model with more constraints and a formulation based on Cartesian coordinates or a model with less constraints and a formulation based on curvilinear coordinates. The results indicated that models with two restrictions perform better than those with one restriction, since the additional restriction includes relevant information. Models with three constraints perform worse than those with two constraints, because the loss of information caused by a numerical solution was greater than the information obtained by a constraint.

 Read here

56- Air entrainment and pressure drop in low-cost ejectors
Authors:  Daniel D. Lima & Iran E. Lima Neto

Experiments were carried out to investigate the air entrainment and pressure drop in low-cost ejectors composed of two pieces shaped from PVC bars inserted in a T-junction. The maximum air-water entrainment ratios was 1.7, while the pressure drop was about 80% of the upstream pressure, suggesting a better benefit-cost ratio than conventional ejectors. Comparing our results with those obtained previously by using water both as primary and suction fluids, it was shown that under gas-liquid flow conditions the entrainment ratio was about 2.5 times larger than that for the single-phase case, while the pressure drop was about 15% lower.

 Read here

57- Specific surface area of polydispersions as a function of size distribution sharpness
Authors:  Paulo Filipe T. Lopes, José Aurélio M. da Luz & Felipe O. Milhomem

Particulate systems are very important in various instances of industry and their fast characterization is an important issue. In the overwhelming majority of cases, particle size distributions do not exhibit statistical adherence to the Gaussian distributions, but are usually described by classic asymmetric statistical distributions, as Rosen–Rammler, Gates–Gaudin–Schumann and Gaudin–Meloy distributions. The specific surface area of simulated particulate systems was studied as a function of the exponents for Gates–Gaudin-Schumann, Gaudin–Meloy and Rosin–Rammler equations. The results showed good statistical adherence, especially when Rosin–Rammler equation is the best descriptor of particle size distribution.

 Read here

58- Modeling geosmin removal in a full-scale filter
Authors: Juliana A. Coelho, Diana Cristina S. de Azevedo, Ivanildo José da Silva Junior & José Capelo-Neto

Taste and odor compounds affect drinking water safety perception and may drive consumers to less secure water sources. Adsorption, using filters with granular activated carbon (GAC), is one way of removing this compounds, but little is still known on how to design them. Homogeneous surface diffusion model (HSDM) was used to model bench-scale experimental data to simulate the removal of geosmin in a full-scale GAC filter. The simulation showed that in a filter with an empty bed contact time of 5 minutes and raw water with geosmin concentrations of 100 ng.L-1 the effluent would exceed the trash-hold concentration in only 66 days.

 Read here

59- Volatile Compounds of Different Fresh Wet Noodle Cultivars Evaluated by Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yan Wu, Shan Liang, Yanyan Zheng & Min Zhang

This study was carried out to determine the volatile compounds from four samples of fresh wet noodles and the changes in the volatile compound composition during the storage process. The volatile compounds from four samples of fresh wet noodles were characterized by headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS). The total volatile compounds in the potato/wheat flour noodle samples contained mainly aldehyde compounds and were greater than those in the wheat noodles. During storage time, alcohols and ketones were increased in volatile substances, and the amount of acids increased dramatically.

 Read here

60- Characterization and application of magnetic biochar for the removal of phosphorus from water
Authors: Teresa Cristina F. Silva, Leonardus Vergütz, Anderson A. Pacheco, Larissa F. Melo, Natalia S. Renato & Leônidas C.A. Melo

Activated biochars were prepared from residues of MDF produced by the furniture industry. Biomass residue was pre-treated aiming to produce a matrix embedded with iron oxide. The pyrolysis process produced maghemite on the biochar surface. Magnetic biochar exhibited up to twelve-fold higher surface area than the non-magnetic biochar. Phosphorus adsorption isotherms showed that these magnetic biochars have high capacity to sorb phosphate, especially at lower pH. Thus, these magnetic biochars could be used to remediate P in eutrophic  water bodies in acidic conditions.

 Read here

61- Comparison of modified alpha functions of the PR-EoS for volume and enthalpy prediction of natural gases
Authors:  André  F.  Gonçalves, Esly F. da Costa Junior & Andréa O.S. da Costa

Simulation of processes of the natural gas industry require accurate prediction of thermodynamic properties, for which cubic equations of state are largely employed. In this work, we investigate if a better performance of the Peng-Robinson equation could be achieved by improving the temperature dependence relation – or alpha function – of its attraction parameter. Five currently available alpha functions were evaluated for the prediction of molar volume and enthalpy of natural gas samples. Parameters of one of the models were readjusted to supercritical data of methane. The strategy enabled better density predictions, though no significant improvements in enthalpy calculations were obtained.

 Read here

62- Assessing raw materials as potential adsorbents to remove acidic compounds from Brazilian crude oils by ESI (-) FT-ICR MS
Authors: Geizila A.P. Abib, Laercio L. Martins, Lorraine Louise G.C. de Araujo, Tatiana V. Isidorio, Marcos A. Pudenzi, Victor Hugo Santos & Georgiana F. da Cruz

The presence of acidic compounds as naphthenic acids in crude oil causes several problems for the petroleum industry, including corrosion in both upstream and downstream production processes. The main objective was to investigate removal of the acidic compound from two Brazilian heavy oils by adsorption processes using six potential adsorbents: powdered shale, activated carbon, bentonite, silica gel, powdered sandstone and powdered wood Silica gel, activated carbon and bentonite were the best adsorbents of acidic compounds from the tested oils, in agreement with their markedly higher surface area and porous volume. A chromatographic analysis was performed and showed no changes in the oil profile.

 Read here

63- Information items to improve Integration Readiness Levels evaluation
Authors: Gabriel T. Jesus & Milton F. Chagas Júnior

This research proposes a set of information items to document the required evidence for the Integration Readiness Levels (IRL) scale, which addresses some critical application challenges of the well-known Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) scale. Results show the main investigation stages and the successful tests in a case study with spacecraft developed in the binational program China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite (CBERS). This article contributes to the research in integration readiness assessments, aims to support professionals who carry out evidence-based evaluations, and, consequently, may improve the accuracy of decision-making in the systems integration by using this scale.

 Read here

SOCIAL SCIENCES

64- Proposal of a theoretical model to identify organizational decline
Authors: Ana Carolina Braga, Luis Mauricio M. Resende & Joseane Pontes

This article aims to develop a theoretical model of organizational decline based on factors of excellence. There is no similar model in the literature, which is why it is considered original. The article contributes scientifically and empirically, as it helps companies to verify the main deficiencies in relation to the variables identified in the Financial and Organizational Satisfaction Indicators.

 Read here

All abstracts of the publications were provided by the respective authors.

Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences
aabc@abc.org.br