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Coccolithophores are potentially affected by ongoing ocean acidification, where rising CO2 lowers seawater pH and calcite saturation state (Ωcal). Southern Patagonian fjords and channels provide natural laboratories for studying these issues due to high variability in physical and chemical conditions. We surveyed coccolithophore assemblages in Patagonian fjords during late spring 2015 and early spring 2017. Surface Ωcal exhibited large variations driven mostly by freshwater inputs. High-Ωcal conditions (max. 3.6) occurred in the Archipelago Madre de Dios. Ωcal ranged from 2.0–2.6 in the western Strait of Magellan and 1.5–2.2 in the inner channel and was subsaturating (0.5) in Skyring Sound. Emiliania huxleyi was the only coccolithophore widely distributed in Patagonian fjords (> 96 % of total coccolithophores), only disappearing in the Skyring Sound, a semi-closed mesohaline system. Correspondence analysis associated higher E. huxleyi biomasses with lower diatom biomasses. The highest E. huxleyi abundances in Patagonia were in the lower range of those reported in Norwegian fjords. Predominant morphotypes were distinct from those previously documented in nearby oceans but similar to those of Norwegian fjords. Moderately calcified forms of E. huxleyi A morphotype were uniformly distributed throughout Patagonia fjords. The exceptional R/hyper-calcified coccoliths, associated with low Ωcal values in Chilean and Peruvian coastal upwellings, were a minor component associated with high Ωcal levels in Patagonia. Outlying mean index (OMI) niche analysis suggested that pH and Ωcal conditions explained most variation in the realized niches of E. huxleyi morphotypes. The moderately calcified A morphotype exhibited the widest niche breadth (generalist), while the R/hyper-calcified morphotype exhibited a more restricted realized niche (specialist). Nevertheless, when considering an expanded sampling domain, including nearby southeast Pacific coastal and offshore waters, even the R/hyper-calcified morphotype exhibited a higher niche breadth than other closely phylogenetically related coccolithophore species. The occurrence of E. huxleyi in naturally low pH–Ωcal environments indicates that its ecological response is plastic and capable of adaptation.

Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a biogenic amine involved in regulating several functions, including development. However, its impact on human embryo development has been poorly studied. The present work investigated the expression and distribution of the main components of the serotoninergic system in human amniotic tissue and human amniotic epithelial cells (hAEC) in vitro, as an alternative model of early human embryo development. Amniotic membranes from full-term healthy pregnancies were used. Human amnion tissue or hAEC isolated from the amnion was processed for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence analyses of the main components of the serotoninergic system. We found the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase type 1 (TPH1), type 2 (TPH2), serotonin transporter (SERT), monoamine oxidase-A (MAOA), as well as HTR1D and HTR7 receptors at mRNA level in amnion tissue as well in hAEC. Interestingly, we found the presence of 5-HT in the nucleus of the cells in amnion tissue, whereas it was located in the cytoplasm of isolated hAEC. We detected TPH1, TPH2, and HTR1D receptor in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. SERT, MAOA, and HTR7 receptor were only observed in the cytoplasm. The results presented herein show, for the first time, the presence of the serotoninergic system in human amnion in vivo and in vitro. Summary sentence The results presented show the presence of the serotoninergic system in human amnion in vivo and in vitro, which opens the potential role of 5-hydroxytryptamine and the serotoninergic system in the events that occur during early human embryonic development (given the origin of the amniotic cells) in vitro. Graphical Abstract

Prolactin (PRL) is a versatile hormone that exerts more than 300 functions in vertebrates, mainly associated with physiological effects in adult animals. Although the process that regulates early development is poorly understood, evidence suggests a role of PRL in the early embryonic development regarding pluripotency and nervous system development. Thus, PRL could be a crucial regulator in oocyte preimplantation and maturation as well as during diapause, a reversible state of blastocyst development arrest that shares metabolic, transcriptomic, and proteomic similarities with pluripotent stem cells in the naïve state. Thus, we analyzed the role of the hormone during those processes, which involve the regulation of its receptor and several signaling cascades (Jak/Mapk, Jak/Stat, and PI3k/Akt), resulting in either a plethora of physiological actions or their dysregulation, a factor in developmental disorders. Finally, we propose models to improve the knowledge on PRL function during early development.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the performance of soybean cultivars using different population densities and planting seasons. The experiments were established using a completely randomized block design with a 14×3×2 factorial arrangement, where factor A consisted of 14 soybean cultivars, factor B were low (177,700 plants ha-1), medium (266,600 plants ha-1), and high (355,500 plants ha-1) population densities, and factor C consisted of early and late planting seasons. We evaluated the number of pods per plant (NPP), number of grains m-2 (NG), 1000-grain weight (TGW), and yield (kg ha-1). The interaction between cultivar and planting season affected the NG, TGW, and yield. Cultivars DM-6563-IPRO, TMG-7062-IPRO, 6505-B, NA-5909-RG, M-6410-IPRO, DM-6262-IPRO, SOJAPAR-R19, 6806-IPRO, 6205-B, M-5947-IPRO and SYN-1163-RR showed higher yields in the early planting season and cultivar NS-5959-IPRO in the late planting season. Cultivars 5907-IPRO and DM-5958 showed similar yields for the two planting seasons evaluated. The highest yields were obtained from a density of 266,600 plants ha-1. The cultivar×planting season interaction affected the TGW, with the early planting season showing a greater TGW for most of the cultivars evaluated. The NPP depended on the interaction between cultivar, density, and planting season. The combination of the NG and the TGW showed a more significant influence on the generation of yield in the cultivars. This study highlights the importance of selecting genotypes according to their response to variations in planting date and plant density. This information could help Paraguayan farmers to maximize production in the same area, optimizing the available resources.

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el valor nutritivo, la fermentación ruminal y la producción de metano in vitro del follaje de especies arbóreas y arbustivas con potencial forrajero como estrategias de alimentación en época de secas y mitigación de las emisiones de metano. El líquido ruminal fue extraído por medio de una sonda esofágica. Se utilizó un diseño en bloques repetidos en el tiempo. El contenido de proteína cruda (PC) y fibra detergente neutro y acida fluctuaron de 6.14% a 21.78%, 44.34% a 77.43% y 16.12% a 49.53% de materia seca (MS). No se encontró diferencia en el volumen máximo de gas (p > 0.05). La degradabilidad fue diferente, observando la mejor en Tithonia diversifolia (760.40 g/kg de MS), Morus alba (800.66 g/kg de MS) y Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (800.16 g/kg de MS), mientras que la más baja fue Megatryrsus maximus (390.40 g/kg de MS y 287.40 g/kg de materia orgánica (MO)) (p < 0.05). No se observó diferencia en la producción de metano (CH4) (p > 0.05). Se concluye que L. leucocephala, P. piscipula, B. alicastrum y G. ulmifolia, T. diversifolia y M. alba tienen un alto potencial para ser incluidos en la dieta de rumiantes como fuentes de proteína en época de secas y estrategias para mitigar las emisiones de metano.

Molecular information is crucial for species identification when facing challenging morphology‐based specimen identifications. The use of DNA barcodes partially solves this problem, but in some cases when PCR is not an option (i.e., primers are not available, problems in reaction standardization), amplification‐free approaches could be an optimal alternative. Recent advances in DNA sequencing, like the MinION device from Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), allow to obtain genomic data with low laboratory and technical requirements, and at a relatively low cost. In this study, we explore ONT sequencing for molecular species identification from a total DNA sample obtained from a neotropical rodent and we also test the technology for complete mitochondrial genome reconstruction via genome skimming. We were able to obtain “de novo” the complete mitogenome of a specimen from the genus Melanomys (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) with average depth coverage of 78X using ONT‐only data and by combining multiple assembly routines. Our pipeline for an automated species identification was able to identify the sample using unassembled sequence data (raw) in a reasonable computing time, which was substantially reduced when a priori information related to the organism identity was known. Our findings suggest ONT sequencing as a suitable candidate to solve species identification problems in metazoan nonmodel organisms and generate complete mtDNA datasets., The findings of this study suggest ONT sequencing as a suitable candidate to solve species identification problems in metazoan nonmodel organisms and generate complete mtDNA datasets.

The male of Craugastor yucatanensis (Lynch, 1965) is described for the first time, as the original description was based on four females. The advertisement call is described and additional morphological data on females are presented. Also, information is provided on the sexual dimorphism and natural history of the species.

Understanding belowground morphological mechanisms of trees and grasses is a complicated task but can help in the design and management of silvopastoral systems. In this study, we evaluated the effect of the harvest intervals (i.e. 30 and 50 days) of aboveground biomass on the fine root density and vertical distribution in two silvopastoral systems (SPS): one comprising Leucaena leucocephala (legume tree) and Cynodon plectostachyus (grass) and the other L. leucocephala and Panicum maximum. We used a completely randomized design with four repetitions. We sampled fine roots by using a metal cylinder (8 cm diameter and 50 cm length) 7 days after each harvest. We washed the samples with pressurized water to separate them from the soil. The roots were digitalized at a resolution of 600 dpi to determine the diameter and specific root length by using IJ Rhizo® software. Samples were subsequently dried to quantify fine root mass. We found that the greater percentages of fine roots were between 0.4 and 0.8 mm for the legume and between 0.2 and 0.4 mm for grasses. The fine root length and mass density of P. maximum was higher (P 0.05). The effect of harvest interval was significant only in some soil layers in both SPS (P > 0.05). Most of the pasture roots were found in the upper soil layer (0–20 cm), while L. leucocephala roots were present to deeper soil layers. We conclude that P. maximum has a greater rooting capacity and a more rapid recovery than C. plectostachyus, which has greater diameters and lower root density. However, L. leucocephala presented deeper and thicker fine roots in both SPS, which is a good indication of its belowground recovery capacity to aboveground disturbances.

Mexico is the fifth largest producer of fresh oranges in the world, and Tepalcingo in Morelos has recently become an important area of cultivation for cv Valencia. The objectives of this work were to assess fruit quality in the oranges from this region, and to determine their commercial life during storage. Significant differences occurred in the juice volume of fruits during all three seasons evaluated; however, no differences were detected in their weight, size, shape, rind thickness, or flavedo color (L*, C*, h). TSS/TA (total soluble solids/titratable acidity) ratios were high (10.3-12.9) in fruits collected during spring and summer. Overall, the oranges met the specifications of both national and international quality standards. Changes during storage indicated that compression force, % weight loss, and sensorial flavor were negatively impacted by storage at 24⁰C while TSS and TA of juice remained unaffected at 11 and 24 ⁰C. The commercial life of oranges was 21 d at 24 ⁰C and > 28 d at 11 ⁰C as determined from changes in the concentrations of certain aroma compounds and from differences in the firmness of their rinds. Such changes correlate well with both weight loss and the sensorial perception of quality attributes.

Summary Background Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), Kindler syndrome (KS) and xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) are three cancer‐prone genodermatoses whose causal genetic mutations cannot fully explain, on their own, the array of associated phenotypic manifestations. Recent evidence highlights the role of the stromal microenvironment in the pathology of these disorders. Objectives To investigate, by means of comparative gene expression analysis, the role played by dermal fibroblasts in the pathogenesis of RDEB, KS and XPC. Methods We conducted RNA‐Seq analysis, which included a thorough examination of the differentially expressed genes, a functional enrichment analysis and a description of affected signalling circuits. Transcriptomic data were validated at the protein level in cell cultures, serum samples and skin biopsies. Results Interdisease comparisons against control fibroblasts revealed a unifying signature of 186 differentially expressed genes and four signalling pathways in the three genodermatoses. Remarkably, some of the uncovered expression changes suggest a synthetic fibroblast phenotype characterized by the aberrant expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Western blot and immunofluorescence in situ analyses validated the RNA‐Seq data. In addition, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay revealed increased circulating levels of periostin in patients with RDEB. Conclusions Our results suggest that the different causal genetic defects converge into common changes in gene expression, possibly due to injury‐sensitive events. These, in turn, trigger a cascade of reactions involving abnormal ECM deposition and underexpression of antioxidant enzymes. The elucidated expression signature provides new potential biomarkers and common therapeutic targets in RDEB, XPC and KS. What's already known about this topic? Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), Kindler syndrome (KS) and xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) are three genodermatoses with high predisposition to cancer development.Although their causal genetic mutations mainly affect epithelia, the dermal microenvironment likely contributes to the physiopathology of these disorders. What does this study add? We disclose a large overlapping transcription profile between XPC, KS and RDEB fibroblasts that points towards an activated phenotype with high matrix‐synthetic capacity.This common signature seems to be independent of the primary causal deficiency, but reflects an underlying derangement of the extracellular matrix via transforming growth factor‐β signalling activation and oxidative state imbalance. What is the translational message? This study broadens the current knowledge about the pathology of these diseases and highlights new targets and biomarkers for effective therapeutic intervention.It is suggested that high levels of circulating periostin could represent a potential biomarker in RDEB., Linked Comment: https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.18104. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.18271 available online

Based on revisionary work of recently collected material in Colombian museums we confirm the presence of Phylloderma stenops Peters, 1865 in 6 new localities for the country, including the first record of the species in the dry lowlands of the northern Caribbean coast, and the increase by more than 800 m of the elevational range of the species in Colombia. DNA-barcoding confirmed our morphological identification, and supported a paraphyletic composition of the cis-Andean populations. Our records exemplify the little knowledge on the ecogeographic distribution of this species and provide further evidence to consider this as a widespread but rare species.

DNA barcode datasets are a useful tool for conservation and aid in taxonomic identification, particularly in megadiverse tropical countries seeking to document and describe its biota, which is dropping at an alarming rate during recent decades. Here we report the barcodes for several low elevation bird species from northern Colombia with the goal to provide tools for species identification in this region of South America. We blood-sampled birds in a lowland tropical forest with various degrees of intervention using standard 3 × 12 m mist-nets. We extracted DNA and sequenced the COI barcode gene using standard primers and laboratory methods. We obtained 26 COI sequences from 18 species, 10 families and three orders and found that barcodes largely matched (but not always) phenotypic identification (> 90%) and they also facilitated the identification of several challenging passerine species. Despite our reduced sampling, our study represents the first attempt to document COI barcodes for birds (from blood samples) in this part of Colombia, which fills a considerable gap of sampling in this part of South America.

Previous studies have related pair-bonding in Microtus ochrogaster, the prairie vole, with plastic changes in several brain regions. However, the interactions between these socially relevant regions have yet to be described. In this study, we used resting-state magnetic resonance imaging to explore bonding behaviors and functional connectivity of brain regions previously associated with pair-bonding. Thirty-two male and female prairie voles were scanned at baseline, 24 hr, and 2 weeks after the onset of cohabitation. By using network-based statistics, we identified that the functional connectivity of a corticostriatal network predicted the onset of affiliative behavior, while another predicted the amount of social interaction during a partner preference test. Furthermore, a network with significant changes in time was revealed, also showing associations with the level of partner preference. Overall, our findings revealed the association between network-level functional connectivity changes and social bonding.

DNA barcode datasets are a useful tool for conservation and aid in taxonomic identification, particularly in megadiverse tropical countries seeking to document and describe its biota, which is dropping at an alarming rate during recent decades. Here we report the barcodes for several low elevation bird species from northern Colombia with the goal to provide tools for species identification in this region of South America. We blood sampled birds in a lowland tropical forest with various degrees of intervention using standard 10 × 12 mist-nets. We extracted DNA and sequenced the COI barcode gene using standard primers and laboratory methods. We obtained 28 COI sequences from 19 species, 10 families and 3 orders and found that barcodes largely matched (but not always) phenotypic identification (>90%) and they also facilitated the identification of several challenging passerine species. Despite our reduced sampling, our study represents the first attempt to document COI barcodes for birds (from blood samples) in this part of Colombia, which fills a considerable gap of sampling in this part of South America.

Glioblastomas (GBM) are the most frequent and aggressive brain tumors due to their recurrence and resistance to current therapies. These characteristics are associated with the presence of glioma stem cells (GSCs), mainly identified by the detection of the membrane antigens CD133 and CD15. The main source of GSCs has been biopsies of tumors. However, alternatives are sought from cell lines because more homogeneous populations can be obtained with high yields. This chapter describes a method for the enrichment and characterization of GSCs from cell lines derived from human GBM by selective culture with serum-free neural stem cell medium and growth factors. The technique offers alternatives for the enrichment and characterization of GSCs, that could contribute to a better understanding of the biology of GBMs.

Since its discovery in 1937, serotonin (5-HT) has become one of the most studied biogenic amines due to its predominant role in regulating several physiological processes such as mood, sleep, and food intake. This amine and the main components of the serotoninergic system are in almost all cells of the body. The presence of 5-HT and the serotoninergic system has been observed in oocytes and in different embryo development stages of fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals. In several classes of vertebrates, the change in the concentration of 5-HT or the alteration of the serotoninergic system, interfere with early embryo development. These data suggest that 5-HT participates in embryo development of vertebrates.

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most prevalent zoonotic protozoan parasites among warm-blooded animal populations (humans included) around the world, causing multiple clinic manifestations including death in the most severe cases of infection. Due to the versatile life cycle of T. gondii and its diversity of potential hosts, there is a common perception that natural areas and wildlife are highly prevalent reservoirs for the parasite; however, information and reports of the parasite on wildlife populations in Colombia are scarce. Using PRC-based detection analyses of the B1 gene, we evaluated the presence of T. gondii in 49 native small mammal species (10% of the mammal species of Colombia) from 4 different undisturbed natural habitats. Additionally, to understand the ecogeographical distribution of the parasite in Colombia, we developed a literature search of infection reports including information on the host species, density of records and occurrence patterns (using landcover and ecoregions) in natural, rural and urban areas. Our literature review showed a total of 8,103 reports of T. gondii for Colombia of which 86% were related to humans, and 14% to non-human mammals and other categories, with just a single report associated to wildlife; additionally, 82% of all reports were associated to urban areas whereas only 18% to rural sites. Based on the negative results for the presence of T. gondii in our PCR-based analyses and our literature search, we suggest that T. gondii has a synanthropic distribution in Colombia occurring in ecoregions as variable as the xeric scrubs in the northern lowlands and humid montane Andean forests, also we show a lack of information on the parasite relationship with wildlife, a concerning fact given that zoonoses are the leading mechanism for the emergence of infectious diseases.

Neurospheres are primary cell aggregates that comprise neural stem cells and progenitor cells. These 3D structures are an excellent tool to determine the differentiation and proliferation potential of neural stem cells, as well as to generate cell lines than can be assayed over time. Also, neurospheres can create a niche (in vitro) that allows the modeling of the dynamic changing environment, such as varying growth factors, hormones, neurotransmitters, among others. Microtus ochrogaster (prairie vole) is a unique model for understanding the neurobiological basis of socio-sexual behaviors and social cognition. However, the cellular mechanisms involved in these behaviors are not well known. The protocol aims to obtain neural progenitor cells from the neurogenic niches of the adult prairie vole, which are cultured under non-adherent conditions, to generate neurospheres. The size and number of neurospheres depend on the region (subventricular zone or dentate gyrus) and sex of the prairie vole. This method is a remarkable tool to study sex-dependent differences in neurogenic niches in vitro and the neuroplasticity changes associated with social behaviors such as pair bonding and biparental care. Also, cognitive conditions that entail deficits in social interactions (autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia) could be examined.

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have transformed conventional drug discovery pathways in recent years. In particular, recent advances in hiPSC biology, including organoid technologies, have highlighted a new potential for neural drug discovery with clear advantages over the use of primary tissues. This is important considering the financial and social burden of neurological health care worldwide, directly impacting the life expectancy of many populations. Patient-derived iPSCs-neurons are invaluable tools for novel drug-screening and precision medicine approaches directly aimed at reducing the burden imposed by the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders in an aging population. 3-Dimensional self-assembled or so-called ‘organoid’ hiPSCs cultures offer key advantages over traditional 2D ones and may well be gamechangers in the drug-discovery quest for neurological disorders in the coming years.

In Mexico, extensive production systems have caused a drastic reduction in tropical forests and in biological diversity. Most of the agroforestry systems (AFS) in Mexico use leguminous species that naturally associate with arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) and bacterial nitrogen fixing that aid the uptake of N and P in poor soils of the tropics. The AMF and bacteria are predominant in tropical agroecosystems with wide ranges of hosts with potential to increase growth in forest species and in crop yield. Mexico is considered one of the countries with high diversity of plants within the countries of America with potentially high number of AMF species and bacteria in different SAF. Although we have considerable knowledge of the plants used in different AFS, the richness of soil microorganisms has received little attention in Mexico’s tropics. Understanding of the structure and functional diversity of AMF and bacteria have allowed us to generate the bases for a sustainable AFS, increasing productivity and, at the same time, AFS work as reservoirs and biological corridors that could reduce degradation of forests.

Microtus ochrogaster is a rodent with a monogamous reproductive strategy characterized by strong pair bond formation after 6 h of mating. Here, we determine whether mating-induced pair bonding increases cell proliferation in the subventricular zone (SVZ), rostral migratory stream (RMS), and dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus in male voles. Males were assigned to one of the four groups: (1) control: males were placed alone in a clean cage; (2) social exposure to a female (SE m/f): males that could see, hear, and smell a sexually receptive female but where physical contact was not possible, because the animals were separated by an acrylic screen with small holes; (3) social exposure to a male (SE m/m): same as group 2 but males were exposed to another male without physical contact; and (4) social cohabitation with mating (SCM): males that mated freely with a receptive female for 6 h. This procedure leads to pair bond formation. Groups 2 and 3 were controls for social interaction. Male prairie voles were injected with 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) during the behavioral tests and were sacrificed 48 h later. Brains were processed to identify the new cells (BrdU-positive) and neuron precursor cells (neuroblasts). Our principal findings are that in the dorsal region of the SVZ, SCM and SE m/f and m/m increase the percentage of neuron precursor cells. In the anterior region of the RMS, SE m/f decreases the percentage of neuron precursor cells, and in the medial region SE m/f and m/m decrease the number of new cells and neuron precursor cells. In the infrapyramidal blade of the subgranular zone of the DG, SE m/m and SCM increase the number of new neuron precursor cells and SE m/m increases the percentage of these neurons. Our data suggests that social interaction, as well as sexual stimulation, leads to pair bonding in male voles modulating cell proliferation and differentiation to neuronal precursor cells at the SVZ, RMS, and DG.

Mercury (Hg) is a heavy metal known as one of the most toxic elements on the planet. The importance of Hg on living organisms resides on its biomagnification ability. Artisanal gold extraction activities release substantial amounts of this metal, polluting the ecosystems. To assess the impact of gold mining in Las Orquideas National Natural Park (Colombia), total Hg (T-Hg) levels were evaluated from 37 bird and 8 small rodent species collected at two sites within the boundaries of the Natural Park (Abriaqui and Frontino municipalities) that have experienced some gold-extraction history. The mean concentration of T-Hg in bird feathers from both sites was 0.84 ± 0.05 µg/g fw. Differences between species were found according to diet. Total Hg levels were greater on insectivorous (1.00 ± 0.08 µg/g fw), followed by nectarivorous (0.73 ± 0.07 µg/g fw) and frugivorus (0.57 ± 0.09 µg/g fw) species. These Hg levels were greater than those found in feathers from a control sample belonging to the species Penelope perspicax (0.53 ± 0.03 µg/g fw), a frugivorous species living at the Otun Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a forest without known gold mining. Mercury concentrations in the livers of small rodents were greater in specimens from Frontino (0.15 ± 0.01 µg/g fw) than those from Abriaqui (0.11 ± 0.01 µg/g fw), but levels were not different between species. These results indicate that Hg in birds depends mainly on their diet, but geographical location may affect Hg concentration in rodents. Moreover, Hg sources in natural parks of Colombia may not rely solely on gold mining, atmospheric deposition, among others factors, could be influencing its accumulation in biota. © 2018, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.

Livestock production in the tropics contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, so better understanding the role of silvopastoral systems (SPS) in mitigating such emissions is necessary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the amounts of carbon stored in the biomass and soil organic carbon (SOC) components of a Leucaena leucocephala cum Panicum maximum silvopasture system (SPS) compared to a deciduous tropical forest (DTF), and a grass monoculture (GM) in Michoacan, Mexico. The above- and below-ground biomass were measured by destructive sampling in the SPS and GM, while previously reported allometric equations were used to quantify biomass stocks in the DTF. The SOC concentration up to 30 cm was determined by dry combustion method. The SPS and DTF contained more aboveground biomass (41.8 ± 3.30 and 36.7 ± 5.72 Mg DM ha−1) compared to GM (8.0 ± 0.76 Mg DM ha−1). However, the SPS exhibited greater belowground biomass (16.4 ± 1.95 Mg DM ha−1) than the other systems. The DTF had the highest SOC fraction in all depth classes with values ranging from 3.1 ± 0.07% to 3.7 ± 0.06%, respectively, compared to the other systems. The total carbon stocks in SPS was similar to DTF (120.7 ± 10.97 vs. 120.9 ± 6.38 Mg C ha−1) but was significantly higher than GM (78.2 ± 8.41 Mg C ha−1). In dry tropical conditions, SPS displays enormous potential for increasing biomass and soil carbon stocks compared to the GM and can thus be used as a greenhouse gas mitigation strategy in livestock production systems.

MicroRNAs are heterochronic molecules important during brain development, which could be altered by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). To explore these molecules in maternal serum, we performed an RT-qPCR analysis. Our results revealed the heterochronic character of some neural development-related microRNA in serum samples of pregnant women. In relation to the first trimester, higher levels of miR-183-5p, -200b-3p, and -125-5p in the second trimester, and higher levels of miR-137 in the third trimester, were found. Furthermore, an insult such as GDM led to higher levels of miR-183-5p, -200b-3p, -125-5p, and -1290 relative to the control in the first trimester, which might be related to changes in neurogenesis and cell proliferation. An in silico analysis suggested that increased microRNAs in the second trimester in the control contributed to cell proliferation and neuron differentiation and that the rise in miR-137 in the third trimester led to neuron maturation. In the diabetic, higher levels of the microRNAs in the first trimester suggested alterations in cell proliferation and neuron differentiation. In conclusion, we showed that fetal-related microRNAs can be detected in the serum of pregnant woman and exhibit temporary regulation during pregnancy and that microRNAs involved in cell proliferation and neuron differentiation are upregulated under GDM.

Salmonids have two sex hormone-binding globulin (Shbg) paralogs. Shbga is mainly expressed in the liver, while Shbgb is secreted by the granulosa cells of the rainbow trout ovary. Coexpression of shbgb and the gonadal aromatase cyp19a1a mRNAs been observed in granulosa cells, suggesting a physiological coordination between Shbgb expression and estrogen synthesis. As estrogens are essential for female sex determination in the fish ovary, we propose that Shbgb participates in early ovarian differentiation, either by binding with estrogen or through another mechanism that remains to be discovered. To elucidate this potential role, monosex populations of female trout were studied during the molecular ovarian differentiation period (28-56 dpf). shbgb mRNA expression was measured using qPCR and compared with expression of genes for other ovarian markers (cyp19a1a, foxl2, follistatin, and estrogen receptors). shbgb transcript expression was detected during the final stages of embryonic development (21-26 dpf) and during molecular ovarian differentiation (32-52 dpf) after hatching (which occurred at 31 dpf). In situ hybridization localized shbgb transcription to the undifferentiated ovary at 42 dpf, and shbgb and cyp19a1a mRNA showed similar expression patterns. These results suggest that Shbgb is involved in early ovarian differentiation, supporting an important role for the salmonid shbgb gene in sex determination.

This is the first installment of a revision of the didelphid marsupial genus Philander, commonly known as gray four-eyed opossums. Although abundant and widespread in lowland tropical forests from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, species of Philander are not well understood taxonomically, and the current literature includes many examples of conflicting species definitions and nomenclatural usage. Our revision is based on coalescent analyses of mitochondrial gene sequences, phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear genes, morphometric analyses, and firsthand examination of relevant type material. Based on these results, we provisionally recognize eight species, of which three are formally treated in this report: P. quica (Temminck, 1824), an Atlantic Forest endemic formerly known as P. frenatus (Olfers, 1818); P. canus (Osgood, 1913), a widespread species formerly treated as a synonym or subspecies of P. opossum (Linnaeus, 1758); and P. pebas, a new species endemic to Amazonia. The remaining, possibly valid, species of Philander can be allocated to two clades. The first is a cis-Andean complex that includes P. andersoni (Osgood, 1913); P. mcilhennyi Gardner and Patton, 1972; and P. opossum. The second is a trans-Andean complex that includes P. melanurus (Thomas, 1899) and P. pallidus (Allen, 1901). Among other nomenclatural acts, we designate a neotype for the long-problematic nominal taxon Didelphis superciliaris Olfers, 1818, and (in an appendix coauthored by Renate Angermann), we establish that Olfers' coeval binomen D. frenata is based on an eastern Amazonian type and is a junior synonym of P. opossum.

The objective was to evaluate the production and nutritional composition of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) meal under dierent organic fertilization rates. Twenty 10 10 m plots were planted with cassava and fertilized with 0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 kg plant-1 of sugarcane lter cake (part of the waste left after processing). The variables measured were fresh and dry forage yield (FFY and DFY), fresh and dry tuber yield (FTY and DTY), meal yield (MY) and their nutritional composition. The results indicate that the organic fertilization signicantly increased the FFY, DFY, FTY, DTY and MY compared to the control. Applying 1.5 kg of organic fertilizer signicantly improved crude protein content (CP, 3.37%). Organic fertilization with 1.5 kg plant-1 of compost improved forage and tuber yield, and CP content.

In rodents, sexual stimulation induces a positive affective state that is evaluated by the conditioned place preference (CPP) test. Opioids are released during sexual behavior and modulate the rewarding properties of this behavior. Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) are a socially monogamous species, in which copulation with cohabitation for 6 h induces a pair bond. However, the mating-induced reward state that could contribute to the establishment of the long-term pair bond has not been evaluated in this species. The present study aimed to determine whether one ejaculation or cohabitation with mating for 6 h is rewarding for voles. We also evaluated whether this state is opioid dependent. Our results demonstrate that mating with one ejaculation and social cohabitation with mating for 6 h induce a CPP in males, while exposure to a sexually receptive female without mating did not induce CPP. In the female vole, mating until one ejaculation, social cohabitation with mating, or exposure to a male without physical interaction for 6 h did not induce CPP. To evaluate whether the rewarding state in males is opioid dependent, the antagonist naloxone was injected i.p. The administration of naloxone blocked the rewarding state induced by one ejaculation and by social cohabitation with mating. Our results demonstrate that in the prairie vole, on the basis of the CPP in the testing conditions used here, the stimulation received with one ejaculation and the mating conditions that lead to pair bonding formation may be rewarding for males, and this reward state is opioid dependent.

In this study, the extraction of oil from seeds of castor (Ricinus communis) was intended using aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE). After evaluating several enzymes (cellulase, pectinase, hemicellulase and Viscozyme L), the enzymatic cocktail Viscozyme L gave the best oil extraction yield (64 %) at pH 4 and 50 °C, and it was chosen for the optimization of the extraction process using a response surface methodology and a central composite design. Under optimal conditions (2% of Viscozyme L, 4 h of incubation time, 200 rpm and a solid to liquid ratio of 1:5), an oil yield extraction of 80 % was achieved using AEE. Compared with oil extracted using solvent extraction, AEE produced an oil with a higher acid and iodine values, but a similar fatty acid composition. Additionally, oxidative stability was higher in oil extracted using AEE, so it can be said that in terms of this parameter, AEE produces a higher quality oil compared to the SE. Scanning Electron Micrographs (SEM) imagines showed that Viscozyme L causes a destruction of cell walls and liposome membranes structure of castor seeds, causing the oil release. The results showed that AEE is a no contaminant extraction technology that can be employed in the industrial extraction of oil from castor seed.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a model to understand basic aspects of protein glycosylation pathways. Although these metabolic routes have been thoroughly studied, there are still knowledge gaps; among them, the role of the MNT1/KRE2 gene family. This family is composed of nine members, with only six functionally characterized. The enzymes Ktr1, Ktr3, and Mnt1/Kre2 have overlapping activities in both O-linked and N-linked glycan synthesis; while Ktr2 and Yur1 participate exclusively in the elongation of the N-linked glycan outer chain. KTR6 encodes for a phosphomannosyltransferase that synthesizes the cell wall phosphomannan. Here, we aimed to establish the functional role of KTR4, KTR5 and KTR7 in the protein glycosylation pathways, by using heterologous complementation in Candida albicans null mutants lacking members of the MNT1/KRE2 gene family. The three S. cerevisiae genes restored defects in the C. albicans N-linked glycosylation pathway. KTR5 and KTR7 partially complemented a C. albicans null mutant with defects in the synthesis of O-linked glycans, and only KTR4 fully elongated the O-linked glycans like wild-type cells. Therefore, our results suggest that the three genes have a redundant activity in the S. cerevisiae N-linked glycosylation pathway, but KTR4 plays a major role in O-linked glycan synthesis.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the inclusion of Leucaena leucocephala on dry matter (DM) intake and digestibility, nitrogen (N) balance and energy utilization in cattle fed a basal ration of Pennisetum purpureum and housed in metabolic crates. Five crossbred ( Bos taurus × Bos indicus ) heifers (BW: 295 ± 6 kg) were fed chopped P. purpureum grass and five increasing levels of L. leucocephala (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80% of DM) in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The intake of DM was similar (P > 0.05) among treatments, with an average of 7.03 kg of DM/day. While the crude protein intake (CPI) linearly increased (P L. leucocephala , the DM digestibility (average 492.3 g/kg DM) and OM digestibility (average 501.6 g/kg OM) were not affected (P > 0.05) by the incorporation of L. leucocephala into the ration. The N intake and excretion in the urine increased linearly (P = 0.0001, 0.0001) as the level of L. leucocephala in the ration increased. In addition, methane energy loss as a percentage of that in the control ration, was of only 61% (P = 0.0005) with 80% incorporation of L. leucocephala in the ration. We concluded that the inclusion of L. leucocephala has the capacity to reduce energy losses in the form of methane emissions. Nevertheless, the energy losses in the urine increased with the addition of L. leucocephala to the ration, with the optimal levels of incorporation in the ration fluctuating between 20 and 40% of the ration DM, which had no effects on the dry matter intake (DMI), organic matter intake (OMI) or the digestibility of dry matter (DMD).

Aims The malignancy of the Glioblastomas (GBM), the most frequent and aggressive brain tumors, have been associated with the presence of glioma stem cells (GSCs) which can form gliomaspheres (GS) in vitro. Progesterone (P) increases the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GBM cell lines through the interaction with its intracellular receptor (PR). However, it is unknown if the PR is expressed and the possible effects of P in the formation/differentiation of GS. Main methods GS were grown from U251 and U87 cell lines by selective culture with serum-free neural stem cell medium. GSCs were identified by the detection of Sox2, Ki67, Nestin, CD133, and CD15 by immunofluorescence. Additionally, the relative expression of PROM1, NES, SOX2, OLIG2, EZH2, BMI1 and PR genes was evaluated by RT-qPCR. The GS were treated with P, and the number of cells was quantified. By RT-PCR the βIII-TUB and GFAP differentiation genes were evaluated. Key findings GS were maintained until passage four. The expression of all GSCs markers was significantly higher in GS as compared with the basal culture of U251 and U87 cells. We demonstrated for the first time that PR is expressed in GS and this expression was higher as compared with the U251 and U87 cells in basal conditions. Also, we observed that P increased the number of cells derived primary gliomaspheres (GS1) from the U251 line, as well as the expression of the neuronal differentiation marker βIII-TUB. Significance These results suggest the participation of P in the growth of GSCs.

Several protocols have been reported in the literature for the isolation and culture of human amniotic epithelial cells (HAEC). However, these assume that the amniotic epithelium is a homogeneous layer. The human amnion can be divided into three anatomical regions: reflected, placental, and umbilical. Each region has different physiological roles, such as in pathological conditions. Here, we describe a protocol to dissect human amnion tissue in three sections and maintain it in vitro. In culture, cells derived from the reflected amnion displayed a cuboidal morphology, while cells from both placental and umbilical regions were squamous. Nonetheless, all the cells obtained have an epithelial phenotype, demonstrated by the immunodetection of E-cadherin. Thus, because the placental and reflected regions in situ differ in cellular components and molecular functions, it may be necessary for in vitro studies to consider these differences, because they could have physiological implications for the use of HAEC in biomedical research and the promising application of these cells in regenerative medicine.

Introduction: The diversity of macro-arthropods is related to the state of disturbance of the soil, caused mainly by the change of land use for agricultural activities. A strategy for the conservation of these organisms is the implementation of diversified production systems such as silvopastoral systems, however; In the southeast of Mexico, information is still limited. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the richness, abundance of macro-arthropods in four contrasting agro-ecosystems: two silvopastoral systems made of Leucaena leucocephalaand associated pastures (i.e. Panicum maximumcv mombaza and Cynodon plectostachyus), a pasture of Brachiaria brizanthawith scattered trees in low density and, a medium-stature forest. Methods: For this, the pit-fall traps were used, which consisted of plastic containers of one liter capacity and a diameter of 14.4 cm. The samplings were made in two periods: one in the month of February and another in the month of May 2018, in each month there were five spaced collections, which made a total of 100 samples. Results: A total of 1 737 organisms belonging to 14 species of 11 genera were collected. The systems with the greater abundance of macro-arthropods were the system of medium-stature forest (923 individuals) and the silvopastoral system of L. leucocephalawith C. plectostachyus(354 individuals). The most abundant genera were: Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Aracnidos and Orthoptera. The greatest diversity of macro-arthropods occurred in the silvopastoral systems of L. leucocephalawith P. maximum(H '= 1.586) and L. leucocephalawith C. plectostachyus(H' = 1.441). Conclusions: The results show that livestock systems managed with woody components (trees or shrubs) can be equated, in terms of abundance and diversity of macro-arthropods, with systems such as tropical forests, which contributes to the integrity and functionality of the agro-ecosystems. Introducción: La diversidad de macro-artrópodos está relacionada con el estado de conservación del suelo, por lo tanto, el cambio de uso del suelo afecta su integridad. Una estrategia para la conservación de estos organismos es la implementación de sistemas de producción diversificados como los sistemas silvopastoriles; no obstante, en el sureste de México la información aún es limitada. Objetivo: El propósito del presente estudio fue evaluar y comparar la riqueza y la abundancia de macro-artrópodos en cuatro agro-ecosistemas contrastantes: dos sistemas silvopastoriles conformados por Leucaena leucocephalay pastos asociados (i.e. Panicum maximumcv mombaza y Cynodon plectostachyus), un pastizal convencional de Brachiaria brizanthacon árboles dispersos y una selva mediana subperennifolia. Métodos: Se utilizaron trampas pit-fall de un litro de capacidad y un diámetro de 14.4 cm. Los muestreos se realizaron en dos periodos: uno en el mes de febrero y otro en el mes de mayo del 2018, en cada mes se hicieron cinco colectas espaciadas, lo que hizo un total de 100 muestras. Resultados: Se recolectaron un total de 1 737 organismos pertenecientes a 14 especies de 11 órdenes. Los sistemas con mayor abundancia de macro-artrópodos fueron, el sistema de selva media subperennifolia (923 individuos) y el sistema silvopastoril de L. leucocephalacon C. plectostachyus(354 individuos). Los órdenes más abundantes fueron: Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Aracnidos y Orthoptera.La mayor diversidad de macro-artrópodos se presentó en los sistemas silvopastoriles de L. leucocephalacon P. maximum(H’=1.586) y L. leucocephalacon C. plectostachyus(H´=1.441). Conclusiones: Los resultados encontrados muestran que los sistemas pecuarios manejados con componentes leñosos (árboles/arbustos) pueden equipararse, en términos de abundancia y diversidad de órdenes de macro-artrópodos, con sistemas como las selvas o bosques, lo cual contribuye a la integridad y funcionalidad de los agro-ecosistemas.

An innovative aquaculture project involving the thermal seawater effluent of a thermoelectric power plant and a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) was implemented in the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world located in northern Chile to produce the warm water pelagic fish cobia (Rachycentron canadum Linnaeus, 1766). An experimental land-based fish farm was built consisting of nine independent RAS provided with adequate temperature (28°C) and salinity (32) for cobia growth and overall aquaculture performance. Under these conditions, cobia was raised from egg to an average weight of 4 ± 0.4 kg in 12 months. Growth rates were similarly high for all the batches, and mortalities from weaning up to harvest sizes never exceeded 6%. Besides, no antibiotics were ever used, and no infectious diseases ever detected during the four years experimental phase reported herein. The batches of eggs arrived in Chile in 2012 and 2014. After three years, 12 t of cobia were consistently produced per every eight months’ cycle. During this period, successful reproduction and routine volitional spawning of broodstock were achieved, producing offspring from F1 and F2 generations. The biological potential and economic feasibility of the RAS concept for raising cobia in temperate, desert regions was demonstrated and is described. Farm management, multi-trophic aquaculture, animal welfare, proactive health management, zero water effluent discharge, and total recycling of wastes are also discussed as a means of expanding the concept into a commercial phase.

Previous studies have related pair bonding in Microtus ochrogaster, the prairie vole, with plastic changes in several brain regions. However, their socially-relevant interactions have yet to be described. In this study, we used resting state magnetic resonance imaging to explore longitudinal changes in functional connectivity of brain regions associated with pair bonding. Male and female prairie voles were scanned at baseline, after 24 hours and two weeks of cohabitation with mating. Network based statistics revealed a common network with significant longitudinal changes including prefrontal and cortical regions, the hippocampus, the anterior olfactory nucleus, the lateral septum, the paraventricular nucleus, and the ventral tegmental area.Furthermore, baseline functional connectivity of three sub-networks predicted the onset of affiliative behavior, and a relationship was found between partner preference with long-term changes in the functional connectivity between the medial amygdala and ventral pallidum. Overall, our findings revealed the association between network-level changes and social bonding.

Diverse studies have suggested that cytoplasmic inclusions of misfolded α-synuclein in neuronal and glial cells are main pathological features of different α-synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Up to now, most studies have focused on the effects of α-synuclein on neurons, whereas the possible alterations of astrocyte functions and neuron-glia crosstalk have received minor attention. Recent evidence indicates that cellular signaling mediated by hemichannels and pannexons is critical for astroglial function and dysfunction. These channels constitute a diffusional route of communication between the cytosol and the extracellular space and during pathological scenarios they may lead to homeostatic disturbances linked to the pathogenesis and progression of different diseases. Here, we found that α-synuclein enhances the opening of connexin 43 (Cx43) hemichannels and pannexin-1 (Panx1) channels in mouse cortical astrocytes. This response was linked to the activation of cytokines, the p38 MAP kinase, the inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase 2, intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+ ]i ), and purinergic and glutamatergic signaling. Relevantly, the α-synuclein-induced opening of hemichannels and pannexons resulted in alterations in [Ca2+ ]i dynamics, nitric oxide (NO) production, gliotransmitter release, mitochondrial morphology, and astrocyte survival. We propose that α-synuclein-mediated opening of astroglial Cx43 hemichannels and Panx1 channels might constitute a novel mechanism involved in the pathogenesis and progression of α-synucleinopathies.

13 p.-6 fig.-5 tab., Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders in elder population. The β-site amyloid cleavage enzyme 1 (BACE1) is the major constituent of amyloid plaques and plays a central role in this brain pathogenesis, thus it constitutes an auspicious pharmacological target for its treatment. In this paper, a QSAR model for identification of potential inhibitors of BACE1 protein is designed by using classification methods. For building this model, a database with 215 molecules collected from different sources has been assembled. This dataset contains diverse compounds with different scaffolds and physical-chemical properties, covering a wide chemical space in the drug-like range. The most distinctive aspect of the applied QSAR strategy is the combination of hybridization with backward elimination of models, which contributes to improve the quality of the final QSAR model. Another relevant step is the visual analysis of the molecular descriptors that allows guaranteeing the absence of information redundancy in the model. The QSAR model performances have been assessed by traditional metrics, and the final proposed model has low cardinality, and reaches a high percentage of chemical compounds correctly classified., This work is kindly supported by CONICET, grant PIP 112–2012–0100471, by UNS, grants PGI 24/N042 and PGI 24/ZM17, Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (CTQ2015-66313-R) and by MINCYT, for their economic support given to IP in the “6° Programa de Movilidad Docente a Madrid”.

The rapid deforestation of Tabasco due to extensive livestock farming has resulted in a decrease in the original forest cover. Silvopastoral systems represent an option for reversing this problem. A comparative study was conducted to determine the influence of tree density on the structure and species composition of scattered trees in pastures (STP) as well as the herbaceous coverage. A total of 16 livestock systems with 3 STP densities were selected: low (from 24 to 49 individuals ha−1), medium (from 53 to 85 individuals ha−1) and high (from 129 to 212 individuals ha−1. The diameter at breast height, total height, clear bole height and crown area of all trees in each plot were measured. Shannon’s and Simpson’s index values were determined along with the relative importance values (RIVs), and the herbaceous cover under the tree canopy was measured in dry and rainy seasons. A total of 64 species representing 31 botanical families were found. The structure and composition of the STPs are correlated with arboreal density, and thus, species diversity was greater under low and medium densities. The tree species with the highest RIVs were Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn., Guazuma ulmifolia (Lam.), and Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC. in low-density STPs; Cordia alliodora (Ruiz & Pav.) Oken., Schizolobium parahyba (Vell.) S.F. Blak., and T. rosea in medium-density STPs and Swietenia macrophylla (King.), Gmelina arborea (Roxb.), and C. alliodora in high-density STPs. The herbaceous cover was lower under high arboreal densities in both seasons. The STPs at high densities are inferred to be more specialized because they present less arboreal species diversity and structure than low-density STPs, and these properties also affect the coverage of the associated herbaceous component.

Background: Infection with human HIV-2 is endemic in West Africa. The virus originated from West African sooty mangabeys during the first half of the 20th century and an epidemic initiation in Guinea Bissau that coincides with the independence war (1963-1974). The HIV-2 group A is categorized as epidemic group. The presence of HIV-2 group A in Cuba has been previously documented. However, the evolutionary history of HIV-2 group A in the Cuban epidemic is unknown. The aim of this work is to estimate the origin and evolutionary history of the HIV-2 group A in Cuba. Methods: We used a Bayesian coalescent method to analyze the env gene of Cuban HIV-2 group A. The rate of nucleotide substitution was determined and was used to date the phylogenies and reveal the evolutionary history of HIV-2 group A in Cuba. Results: Multiple introductions of HIV-2 group A, mainly from Guinea Bissau and Portugal were detected. The most recent common ancestor of Cuban HIV-2 groups A was dated back to about 1972 (95 % HPD: 1966-1978). The rate of nucleotide substitutions was 5.02 x 10-3 substitutions per site per years (95 % HDP: 4.51-5.52 x 10-3). Conclusions: The results of this study allowed for the first time to estimate the evolutionary history of HIV-2 in Cuba and establish the basis for phylogeographic and phylodynamics studies.

Free radical oxygen species cause protein carbonylation, an irreversible oxidative damage associated with diseases such as liver injury, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, cancer and Alzheimer. To determine the inhibitory activity of the protein carbonylation and the hepatoprotective effect of ethanol extract of the fruits of Caesalpinia coriaria Jacq (Fabaceae). Scavenging activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) and the radical cation 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) of the extract of C. coriaria at 500 mg / L, was evaluated in a preliminary test. Inhibitory activity of the protein carbonylation isolated from mouse liver using Western methodology with dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) probes was evaluated. The hepatoprotective activity of the extract was evaluated in vivo in Wistar rats using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) as toxic orally. The degree of hepatoprotection was determined by measuring the serum liver enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and by histopathological analysis of rat liver. The rate of capture of the radicals DPPH• and ABTS•+ by the extract of C. coriaria was higher than 90 % in both cases. The extract also showed a better inhibitory effect on the carbonylation of the proteins than butyl hydroxytoluene (BHT) used as positive control. The extract of C. coriaria produced a significant reduction of AST concentration (from 1667,67 ± 394,27 to 718,00 ± 24,85 U/L ) and ALT (from 967,67 ± 118,30 to 625.67 ± 60,98 U/L), indicating liver cell damage attenuation. The extract of C. coriaria produced an important antioxidant activity and moderate hepatoprotective effect against CCl4-induced toxicity.

During human development, pluripotency is present only in early stages of development. This ephemeral cell potential can be captured in vitro by obtaining pluripotent stem cells (PSC) with self-renewal properties, the human embryonic stem cells (hESC). However, diverse studies suggest the existence of a plethora of human PSC (hPSC) that can be derived from both embryonic and somatic sources, depending on defined culture conditions, their spatial origin, and the genetic engineering used for reprogramming. This review will focus on hPSC, covering the conventional primed hESC, naive-like hPSC that resemble the ground-state of development, region-selective PSC, and human induced PSC (hiPSC). We will analyze differences and similarities in their differentiation potential as well as in the molecular circuitry of pluripotency. Finally, we describe the need for human feeder cells to derive and maintain hPSC, because they could emulate the interaction of in vivo pluripotent cells with extraembryonic structures that support development. Developmental Dynamics 245:762-773, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

To assess species-level diversity in the didelphid marsupial genus Marmosops, we obtained sequence data from the mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYTB) gene from > 200 specimens, including exemplars of every currently recognized species together with multiple specimens of all geographically widespread forms. Analyses of these data using the general mixed Yule coalescent (GMYC) model suggest that the genus could be twice as speciose as currently recognized, but putative species identified by the GMYC criterion require careful evaluation using other data. To assess phylogenetic relationships within Marmosops, we additionally sequenced a large fragment of the breast cancer activating 1 (BRCA1) gene from one specimen each of the putative species identified by the GMYC analyses of CYTB. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses of a concatenated gene (CYTB + BRCA1) matrix revealed a basal dichotomy between two ancient, morphologically diagnosable clades with apparently distinct distributions and adaptive phenotypes. We describe those clades as subgenera and assign 12 nominal taxa to Sciophanes subgen. nov. (with type species Marmosops parvidens) and 27 nominal taxa to the nominotypical subgenus (with type species Marmosops incanus).

The objective of this research was to examine the effects of treating sunflower and spring pea meals with orthophosphoric or malic acid solutions and heat on growth performance, concentrate intake, and carcass yield and fatness of growing-fattening lambs. Ninety “Entrefino” cross male lambs from three commercial farms (average initial body weights (BW) = 14.6, 15.3 and 13.3 kg) were randomly assigned to five diets with different acid treatment and protein levels, and fattened to an average slaughter weight of 25 kg. Protein sources in the control concentrate (C; crude protein (CP) = 18%) were soybean meal and untreated sunflower and spring pea meals. In three of the experimental concentrates, orthophosphoric acid-treated meals substituted untreated sunflower and spring pea meals (Orthophosphoric Control, PC; CP = 18% dry matter basis (DM)), and soybean meal was partially (Medium Substitution Orthophosphoric, MSP; CP = 16.7%) or totally removed (Total Substitution Orthophosphoric, TSP; CP = 15.6%). In addition, in one concentrate orthophosphoric acid was replaced by malic acid to protect these meals (Medium Substitution Malic, MSM; CP = 16.7%). Wheat straw (roughage source) and concentrate were offered ad libitum. No effect associated with the CP level was observed on any parameter. This suggests that with protected proteins it is possible to feed concentrates with 15.6% CP (on DM) reducing the need to include vegetable protein meals as well as the quality of the protein concentrates. Lambs fed MSM had higher average daily gains (15.2%; P = 0.042), and better hot carcass yields (1.3 percentage points; P = 0.037) than lambs fed MSP. This probably can be explained by ruminal malate actions and by greater protection effects obtained with malic acid.

Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) have negative effects on the fitness parameters of earthworms; however, these effects may vary from one commercial product to another and between different recommended doses. Additionally, frequent applications of GBHs may decrease the thickness of the topsoil layer due to increased soil erosion through vegetation reduction. To investigate the effects of frequent applications of GBHs, and their interactive effect on the performance of P. corethrurus, we performed a two-factor experiment exposing in vitro the earthworm to two commercial GBHs (factor I, FAENA FUERTE (FF, Monsanto Co.) and GLYFOS (GLY, Cheminova Co., with three levels)) and soil thickness (factor II, with two levels); having six treatments in total, each with four replicates. Both herbicides were applied at their recommended doses; a total of 11 times at intervals of 14 days in soil layers 2.5 and 5 cm deep. Earthworm biomass and cocoon production were measured every 12 days for 168 days. Application of GLY resulted in significant biomass decreases of between 51 ± 11.54% (here and further S.E. is provided) and 100 ± 0.00% compared to a control. For FF, the final biomass decreased significantly by between 19 ± 7.33% and 24 ± 8.44% at both doses, independently of soil thickness. Additionally, a significant biomass reduction of 41 ± 7.93% was detected when soil thickness was low at highest dose. At a soil depth of 5 cm, GLY significantly decreased cocoon production by between 69 ± 7.86% and 83 ± 10.53% at each dose compared to the control. In contrast, the different doses of FF did not affect the number of cocoons produced, although there was a significant decrease of 72 ± 7.18% when the soil layer was reduced. The growth rate increased significantly under exposure to both GBH at all tested doses. Our results suggest that cumulative doses of GLY are more detrimental for P. corethrurus than those of FF and that soil thickness may help buffer some of the negative effects of GBHs. In order to reduce negative impacts on earthworms in the field, we therefore suggest maintaining the topsoil layer thickness and adjusting the doses of GBHs to the lowest end of the recommended range.

Animal management practices may influence the animal's susceptibility to stress, with detrimental effects on the ultimate meat quality. In this field, proteomics is a promising tool that reveals the biological pathways underpinning the effect of animal's pre-slaughter stress (PSS) on the ultimate meat quality. The objective of this work was to study the effect of a pre-slaughter procedure that may promote stress, such as mixing unfamiliar animals during the transport and lairage period, on the post-mortem muscle proteome of young bulls reared under two different farm management systems (Intensive or Extensive). Comparative proteomics and biochemical analysis reveal the effect of PSS on biochemical pathways involved in the meat colour development, muscle redox status, energy metabolism and autophagy. This work highlights the potential of some muscle proteins such as Beclin-1 (autophagy marker), CKM (biomarker of energy transduction) and proteins of the energy metabolism (ALDOA, PYGM, PGM1, PKM, GPI) as potential biomarkers to discriminate beef samples according to the incidence of PSS. SIGNIFICANCE: Meat scientists are interested in the study of individual animal-based measurements that allow the detection of stress situations which could have negative effects on meat quality. In this context, the mechanisms underlying the adverse effects of pre-slaughter stress on the post-mortem muscle metabolism need to be elucidated in order to understand how animal stress may influence the conversion of muscle into meat. In this work, the study of proteome changes in the post-mortem muscle has allowed the identification of significant biomarkers of these processes that could be used as tools for detecting inappropriate strategies that may induce increased animal stress and, in consequence, may compromise the ultimate beef quality.

Although investigation with human embryonic stem cells (HESC) is not decreasing, the derivation of new lines has been diminished. The preeminence of only a few HESC lines in research is accompanied by lack of universal applicability of results as well as by genetic under-representation. We previously reported the derivation of one line with male karyotype from Mexican population. Here, we derived one HESC line (Amicqui-2) with female karyotype from poor-quality embryos. These line comply the pluripotent requirements (normal karyotype, detection of pluripotency-associated markers, mycoplasma test and teratoma formation) and could be a valuable model for studying diseases specific to under-represented population.