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Cerebral white matter consists mainly of axons surrounded by myelin sheaths, which are grouped to form association, commissural, and projection fasciculi. The aim of our work was to quantify and compare under the microscope the axons of the white matter association fasciculi in the cerebral hemispheres of cow (Bos taurus), pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) and rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) indirectly by identification of their myelin sheaths. The samples were taken from 30 cerebral hemispheres: 10 cow, 10 pig and 10 rabbit (15 right and 15 left). They were obtained following a protocol based on the Talairach-Tournoux coordinate system for human and primate brains. The slides were stained with Luxol Fast Blue, observed by optical microscopy, and photographed at 600x. Samples were also prepared for observation in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) with osmium tetroxide. The myelin sheaths/axons were counted with the ImageJ software. Statistically significant differences in the number of myelin sheaths per 410 µm² were found in the inferior and superior longitudinal fasciculi between the left and right hemispheres of cows, with predominance of the right hemisphere; and in the inferior occipitofrontal fasciculus of the rabbit with predominance of the left hemisphere. The use of animal models for experiments in the cerebral fasciculi, especially pig, could give us a greater understanding of the behavior of demyelinating and neurodegenerative diseases in humans.

En el ámbito deportivo, las decisiones arbitrales siempre han estado bajo la lupa de los deportistas, directivos y espectadores, por tal motivo se mantiene en constante evaluación y entrenamiento el tema de reducir el error. Es necesario exponer que la toma de decisiones se puede generar bajo la influencia directa de las emociones, puesto que el proceso de respuestas emocionales es inconsciente y pueden interferir durante el desarrollo de diversas actividades, en este caso, a las relacionadas con el arbitraje. Por ello, se genera un prototipo de sensores en función a los parámetros fisiológicos de la temperatura corporal y la frecuencia cardiaca como patrones de expresión de diversos estados emocionales de este grupo de deportistas, y a base de la representación del modelo de afectividad positiva y negativa, se identifica el estado o cambios de estados emocionales durante la ejecución de un partido. Luego, con uso del material audiovisual se realiza, con criterio de expertos, el análisis de toma de decisiones de los participantes en estas pruebas. Los árbitros participantes, en las pruebas de campo, se les registra con mayor frecuencia dos estados relacionados con valencia positiva y solo un estado de valencia negativa, sin embargo, en la mayoría de los casos, en el análisis de datos se observa que la toma de decisiones se alinea correctamente con el reglamento.

Bees are the primary pollinators in nature. However, climate change, excessive use of fertilizers and invasive species have caused the decline of bee colonies. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the presence of pests in colonies of Melipona eburnea. For this, the colonies of M. eburnea were examined during the honey extraction process. We found 4 different pests associated with the physical conditions of colonies and the fragile defense of the bees against the invaders. In conclusion, this report of the presence of pests is to alert researchers and meliponicultures to prevent the decline of stingless bees.

Horse flies from the Neotropical region include many endemic and rarely collected groups. In this study, we describe a new species of a poorly known genus, Acanthocera (Querbetia) buestani, from Napo, Ecuador. The Querbetia subgenus is underrepresented in entomological collections by scarce historical specimens, still this group is one of the most easily recognizable and peculiar Tabanidae thanks to its inflated antennomere. This new species can be distinguished by its proboscis and palpi, longer than the other species of the subgenus Querbetia and body coloration pattern. We included an illustrative key to identify this subgenus and its species. Additionally, we report for the first time A. inopinata from Ecuador.

La Hymenolepidiosis es una zoonosis de prevalencia mundial, sobre todo en niños, es causada por cestodos de roedores denominados Hymenolepis (H) nana e Hymenolepis diminuta, es muy frecuente en países en vías de desarrollo, con climas cálidos, templados y secos. El ciclo biológico de la H. nana no requiere de hospederos intermediarios, y su transmisión habitual es fecal-oral (por ingesta de huevos infectivos); y la infección de H. diminuta se da a través de la ingestión de artrópodos tenebriónidos con la forma larvaria cisticercoides. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la presencia de H. nana e H. diminuta en la ciudadela Las Piñas, de la ciudad de Milagro (Ecuador) y dar a conocer a través de charlas informativas el riesgo en salud pública; para esta investigación se capturaron roedores con ayuda de trampas Tomahawk y Sherman en complementariedad con cebos no tóxicos (carne, mortadela, pescado, pan). Mediante un estudio aplicado, con enfoque cualitativo, de tipo descriptivo-prospectivo-transversal, realizado entre el 1 de febrero al 30 de julio del 2018, se analizaron las muestras fecales por métodos directos y de flotación-centrifugación con solución salina sobresaturada. De 87 roedores capturados y procesados, 20 casos (22.99 %) se determinó para Hymenolepis nana y 10 casos (11.49 %) para H. diminuta. Constituyéndose en el primer reporte de Hymenolepis nana y diminuta en roedores en el país. Se concluye que es evidente la presencia de estos parásitos en el sitio de estudio, lo que podría convertirse en un serio problema de salud pública, por el riesgo de transmitirse a los habitantes del sector.

[Extract] The Guadalupe fur seal (GFS; Arctocephalus philip-pii townsendi) and Juan Fernandez fur seal (JFFS; Arctocephalus philippii philippii) have a restricted distribution to islands in the North and South Pacific Ocean, respectively. GFS only breeds in Mexico, concentrating its population on Guadalupe and the San Benito Islands (Figure 1), with a regional abundance of around 40,000 individuals (Garcia-Aguilar et al., 2018; Hernandez-Camacho & Trites, 2018), while JFFS is limited to the Juan Fernandez Archipelago in Chile (Figure 1), with an estimated population of 20,000 animals (Osman, 2007). Both species were considered extinct by the end of the 1800s because of intense commercial hunting (Townsend, 1931; Hubbs & Norris, 1971). However, a small number of GFS and JFFS were discovered breeding on Guadalupe Island in 1954 and Alejandro Selkirk Island in 1965, respectively (Hubbs, 1956; Bahamonde, 1966). These populations grew slowly and colonized other nearby islands over time (Goldsworthy et al., 2000; Aurioles-Gamboa et al., 2010), surviving in caves or on inaccessible beaches, thereby maintaining their populations and probably facilitating the increase of their genetic diversity (Goldsworthy et al., 2000).

Trypanosomosis in sheep is a hemoparasitic disease of worldwide interest due to its effects on the health of animals and the economic impact on producers, is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma sp. In the present study, the occurrence of Trypanosoma sp. in sheep from the urban-rural area of the canton Salitre was determined, through an applied study with a qualitative descriptive prospective cross-sectional approach, carried out between October 1, 2019, and February 19, 2020. Blood samples were extracted from the jugular vein and analyzed by the blood smear method using the Giemsa and Diff-Quick staining techniques. Previously, in a first study realized between 2018 and 2019, 2 cases (2%) of Trypanosoma sp., 1 case of Babesia sp. (1%), and 4 cases of Anaplasma marginale (4%) were identified, but without the presence of symptoms of the disease. However, in this new research study, of 170 animals sampled from 5 herds and aged between 3 and 8 years, 34 (20%) were positive for Trypanosoma sp., 6 for Babesia sp. (3.52%) and 6 for A. marginale (3.52%) with coinfection between them. In this research, deteriorated clinical aspects and low hematological values were also determined in positive animals; besides of the total of positive cases, 25 presented symptoms of hemoparasitic disease, 3 sheep had abortions and 8 died. The results of this study showed that Trypanosoma sp. could already become an endemic parasitosis in sheep in the country, representing a serious problem of animal health. RESUMO: A tripanossomose em ovinos é uma doença hemoparasitária de interesse mundial devido a seus efeitos sobre a saúde dos animais e o impacto econômico sobre os produtores, Esta doença é causada pelo protozoário Trypanosoma sp. No presente estudo, foi determinada a ocorrência de Trypanosoma sp. em ovelhas da área urbano-rural do Cantão Salitre, através de um estudo aplicado com uma abordagem transversal descritiva qualitativa prospectiva, realizado entre dia primeiro de outubro de 2019, à 19 de fevereiro de 2020. Amostras de sangue foram extraídas da veia jugular e analisadas pelo método de esfregaço de sangue usando as técnicas de coloração Giemsa e Diff-Quick. Anteriormente, em um primeiro estudo realizado entre 2018 e 2019, dois casos (2%) de Trypanosoma sp., foram identificados um caso de Babesia sp. (1%), e quatro casos de Anaplasma marginale (4%), mas sem a presença de sintomas da doença. Entretanto, neste novo estudo de pesquisa, de 170 animais amostrados de cinco rebanhos e com idades entre três e oito anos, 34 (20%) foram positivos para Trypanosoma sp., seis para Babesia sp. (3,52%) e seis para A. marginale (3,52%) com coinfecção entre eles. Nesta pesquisa, aspectos clínicos deteriorados e baixos valores hematológicos também foram determinados em animais positivos; além do total de casos positivos, 25 apresentaram sintomas de doença hemoparasítica, três ovelhas tiveram abortos e oito morreram. Os resultados deste estudo mostram que o Trypanosoma sp. já poderia se tornar uma parasitose endêmica em ovinos no país, representando um grave problema de saúde animal.

Background Hundreds of adipokines have been identified, and their extensive range of endocrine functions—regulating distant organs such as oral tissues—and local autocrine/paracrine roles have been studied. In dentistry, however, adipokines are poorly known proteins in the dental pulp; few of them have been studied despite their large number. This study reviews recent advances in the investigation of dental-pulp adipokines, with an emphasis on their roles in inflammatory processes and their potential therapeutic applications. Highlights The most recently identified adipokines in dental pulp include leptin, adiponectin, resistin, ghrelin, oncostatin, chemerin, and visfatin. They have numerous physiological and pathological functions in the pulp tissue: they are closely related to pulp inflammatory mechanisms and actively participate in cell differentiation, mineralization, angiogenesis, and immune-system modulation. Conclusion Adipokines have potential clinical applications in regenerative endodontics and as biomarkers or targets for the pharmacological management of inflammatory and degenerative processes in dental pulp. A promising direction for the development of new therapies may be the use of agonists/antagonists to modulate the expression of the most studied adipokines.

Patient: Male, 8 Final Diagnosis: Cutaneous larva migrans Symptoms: Acute pain in the foot • itching Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Treatment, ivermectin in a single dose of 200 μg/kg Specialty: General and Internal Medicine Objective: Rare co-existance of disease or pathology Background: Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is caused by nematode parasites of the hookworm family of Ancylostomatidae. Ancylostomiasis is a zoonosis found in cats and dogs, and humans are an accidental host. This report presents a case of CLM in an 8-year-old boy, which was due to the zoonotic transmission of Ancylostoma caninum from domestic dogs in an urban area of Vinces, Ecuador, and demonstrates how awareness and early diagnosis contributed to the timely treatment of CLM. Case Report: An 8-year-old boy from the urban area of Vinces city in the Los Ríos province of Ecuador presented with a serpiginous palpable lesion on the sole of the right foot, consistent with a diagnosis of cutaneous larva migrans (CLM). He was infected through contact with the soil where canine Ancylostoma larvae were found. Twenty samples of feces were analyzed from the soil, and Ancylostoma larvae were found in 100% of these samples. Also, 120 dog stool samples were examined, and 75 (62.5%) contained Ancylostoma larvae, which were identified using the modified Willis and Baermann method. Conclusions: CLM is a zoonotic disease that can affect the population in endemic areas. In this case, CLM was identified in the sole of the foot of a child. The presence of Ancylostoma larvae were identified in the soil and in the feces of dogs, indicating that the community was exposed to a significant environmental risk from this zoonotic disease.

We report the first known record of the tawny crazy ant Nylanderia fulva (Mayr) in continental Ecuador. In addition, we describe the mutualistic association between ants and white aphids Melanaphis sacchari (Zehntner) in a sugarcane crop. Finally, we highlight the necessity to carry out studies of this nature due to an increasing number of invasive ant species in Ecuador and their potential damage to agricultural and natural ecosystems.

The sensorial quality of coffee can be impaired by prolonged storage. Aged coffee presents an off-note taste which is called “rested coffee flavor.” This quality reduction is accompanied by changes of the lipid profiles. Therefore, we tested the suitability of MALDI-ToF mass fingerprinting to discriminate between unrested (“fresh”) and rested Colombian Arabica (Coffea arabica) coffee samples. The samples represented different varieties, geographic regions, and processing. With an optimized sample preparation and data processing protocol, we obtained informative mass profiles of coffee oil. Principal component analysis (PCA) was insufficient to classify between unrested and rested samples. Thus, we developed a Random Forest model, which demonstrated a specificity of 72% to detect rested coffee across different days of sample analysis. For individual measurement days, 85–92% specificities were obtained. The high throughput of MALDI-ToF mass fingerprinting enables the broad screening of green coffee materials for quality monitoring and shelf-life studies.

espanolEl presente trabajo determina el perfil del turista, los ociotipos y las motivaciones de viaje para productos turisticos patrimoniales dentro de la Ruta del Hielo II, que forma parte de la oferta turistica de Ferrocarriles del Ecuador Empresa Publica (FEEP). Se utilizo la metodologia de Valls y ESADE que determina los ociotipos, caracterizada por la identificacion de las motivaciones principales y secundarias de viaje, asi como variables socioeconomicas y los estilos de vida. Los resultados identifican caracteristicas sociodemograficas y psicograficas de los usuarios de la ruta del tren, asi como sus motivaciones de viaje en tres ociotipos caracterizados como: natuactivos, relajados naturales y culturales recreativos, quienes tienen como motivacion principal de viaje a la naturaleza y las distintas actividades que les permiten tener contacto con la misma; entre las motivaciones secundarias se determinaron actividades de relajacion, la cultura y la recreacion. Los resultados presentados reflejan la importancia de los ociotipos y motivaciones de viaje para el mejoramiento de la oferta de productos turisticos como base de un desarrollo sostenible del patrimonio cultural. EnglishThe present work determined the profile of the tourist, the processes and the motivations of travel for heritage tourism products within the Ruta del Hielo II, which is part of the tourist offer of Ferrocarriles del Ecuador Empresa Publica (FEEP). We used the methodology of Valls and ESADE that determines the ociotipos; it was characterized by the identification of the main and secondary motivations of travel, as well as the socioeconomic variables and lifestyles. The results identify the sociodemographic and psychographic characteristics of the users of the train route as well as their travel motivations in three ociotipos characterized as: natuactivos, relajados naturales and culturales recreativos, which have as main motivation of travel to nature and activities that they are allowed to have contact with it; among the secondary motivations, relaxation activities, culture and recreation were determined. The results presented to the importance of the errors and motivations of travel for the improvement of the offer of tourist products as base of a sustainable development of the cultural patrimony.

espanolLa papa es una planta tuberosa cultivada alrededor del mundo, sus tuberculos pueden conservarse por largo tiempo, despues de haber sido cosechados y sin perder sus parametros de calidad, consumo y procesamiento. Existen varios tratamientos que permiten retrasar la aparicion de brotes como la utilizacion de hormonas vegetales como, acido abscisico, acido giberelico, acido indol acetico, etileno y citoquininas que intervienen en las fases fisiologicas del tuberculo semilla especialmente en el proceso de dormancia. Agentes externos como el Chlorpropham, hidracida del acido maleico, aceites esenciales y taninos tambien juegan un rol importante sobre la inhibicion de los brotes. Las plantas elaboran compuestos que son empleados para regular diferentes procesos fisiologicos, entre ellos el de la generacion de brotes, es por eso que la obtencion de extractos vegetales y el estudio de sus compuestos activos ayudan a la reduccion del uso de productos quimicos entre ellos el extracto de nogal que por sus compuestos alcaloides, flavonoides, cumarinas y antroquininas que se encuentran en diferentes partes del arbol bloquean los procesos metabolicos y hormonales del tuberculo permitiendo disminuir el crecimiento activo de los brotes y alargar el proceso de dormancia. El presente articulo tiene como objetivo revisar algunos de los tratamientos que se utilizan para alargar el proceso de brotacion de los tuberculos- semilla de papa. EnglishThe potatois a tuberous plant cultivated around the world, its tubers can be conserved for a long time, after having beenharvested and without losing its parameters of quality, consumption and processing. There are several treatments thatallow delay the appearance of outbreaks as the use of plant hormones these are; abscisic acid, gibberellic acid, indoleacetic acid, ethylene and cytokinins that intervene in the physiological phases of the seed tuber, especially in the dorman-cy process. External agents such as Chlorpropham, maleic acid hydrazide, essential oils and tannins also play an im-portant role in the inhibition of outbreaks. The plants elaborate compounds that are used to regulate different physiologi-cal processes, among them the one of the generation of shoots, that is why the obtaining of vegetal extracts and the studyof their active compounds help to the reduction of the use of chemical products among them the walnut extract that by itscompounds alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins and anthroquinines that are in different parts of the tree block the metabolicand hormonal processes of the tuber allowing to decrease the active growth of the shoots and lengthen the dormancyprocess. The objective of this article is to review some of the treatments that are used to lengthen the sprouting process ofpotato seed tubers.

The synthetic auxin 2,4¿dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4¿D) functions as an agro-nomic weed control herbicide. High concentrations of 2,4¿D induce plant growthdefects, particularly leaf epinasty and stem curvature. Although the 2,4¿D triggeredreactive oxygen species (ROS) production, little is known about its signalling. In thisstudy, by using a null mutant in peroxisomal acyl CoA oxidase 1 (acx1¿2), we iden-tified acyl¿coenzyme A oxidase 1 (ACX1) as one of the main sources of ROS pro-duction and, in part, also causing the epinastic phenotype following 2,4¿Dapplication. Transcriptomic analyses of wild type (WT) plants after treatment with2,4¿D revealed a ROS¿related peroxisomal footprint in early plant responses, whileother organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, are involved in later re-sponses. Interestingly, a group of 2,4¿D¿responsive ACX1¿dependent transcriptspreviously associated with epinasty is related to auxin biosynthesis, metabolism, andsignalling. We found that the auxin receptor auxin signalling F¿box 3 (AFB3), acomponent of Skp, Cullin, F¿box containing complex (SCF) (ASK¿cullin¿F¿box) E3ubiquitin ligase complexes, which mediates auxin/indole acetic acid (AUX/IAA)degradation by the 26S proteasome, acts downstream of ACX1 and is involved in theepinastic phenotype induced by 2,4¿D. We also found that protein degradationassociated with ubiquitin E3¿RING and E3¿SCF¿FBOX in ACX1¿dependent signallingin plant responses to 2,4¿D is significantly regulated over longer treatment periods, This study was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (MCIU), the State Research Agency (AEI) and FEDER grant PGC2018-098372-B-I00. MAP-V was supported by MCIU Research Personnel Training (FPI) grant BES-2016-076518.

The commonly known Andean blackberry or Mora de Castilla (Rubus glaucus) can be grown in the highlands of Latin America, from Mexico to Bolivia. However, the major productions are in rural areas of Colombia and Ecuador contributing a source of income to their population. For instance, the fruit crop is of economic importance for farmers in the Province of Tungurahua (Ecuador). This study is based on the composite material’s experiment of a polymeric matrix reinforced with blackberry green fiber. The proposed natural fiber is chosen for its vast planted area residues of 3,673 hectares that is being pruned and burned monthly, producing large amounts of CO2, hence polluting the environment. Unfortunately, there is no post usage application for production wastage. Why not use this fiber as a cars’ reinforcing material?

Three cases of severe odontogenic infections due to nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in Venezuela that were directly associated with dental procedures and the finding of dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) in dental offices that were colonized with mycobacteria species was the reason for assessing the water quality of DUWLs in dental offices in two capital cities in South America, namely, Quito and Caracas. The main water supplies and the water from 143 DUWLs in both cities were sampled and especially checked for contamination with NTM. To measure the overall bacteriological quality of the water also the presence of heterotrophic bacteria, coliform bacteria, and Pseudomonas was determined. Results showed that respectively 3% and 56% of the DUWLs in Quito and Caracas yielded NTM species (up to 1000 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL). Furthermore, high and unacceptable total viable counts of heterotrophic bacteria and/or coliform bacteria and Pseudomonas were detected in 73% of the samples. We conclude that, in both cities, the water in the majority of DUWLs was contaminated with NTM and other potential pathogens, presenting a risk to human health. The detection of NTM in DUWL water with acceptable heterotrophic bacteria counts shows the need to include NTM in water quality testing. Mycobacteria are more resistant to disinfection procedures than other types of vegetative bacteria, and most testing protocols for DUWLs do not assess mycobacteria and thus do not guarantee risk-free water.

BackgroundEntomological monitoring ofAedesvectors has largely relied on surveillance of larvae, pupae and non-host-seeking adults, which have been poorly correlated with human disease incidence. Exposure to mosquito-borne diseases can be more directly estimated using human landing catches (HLC), although this method is not recommended forAedes-borne arboviruses. We evaluated a new method previously tested with malaria vectors, the mosquito electrocuting trap (MET) as an exposure-free alternative for measuring landing rates ofAedesmosquitoes on people. Aims were to (i) compare the MET to the BG-sentinel (BGS) trap gold standard approach for sampling host-seekingAedesvectors; and (ii) characterize the diel activity ofAedesvectors and their association with microclimatic conditions.MethodsThe study was conducted over 12 days in Quinindé (Ecuador) in May 2017. Mosquito sampling stations were set up in the peridomestic area of four houses. On each day of sampling, each house was allocated either a MET or a BGS trap, which were rotated amongst the four houses daily in a Latin square design. Mosquito abundance and microclimatic conditions were recorded hourly at each sampling station between 7:00–19:00 h to assess variation between vector abundance, trapping methods, and environmental conditions. AllAedes aegyptifemales were tested for the presence of Zika (ZIKV), dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses.ResultsA higher number ofAe. aegyptifemales were found in MET than in BGS collections, although no statistically significant differences in meanAe. aegyptiabundance between trapping methods were found. Both trapping methods indicated femaleAe. aegyptihad bimodal patterns of host-seeking, being highest during early morning and late afternoon hours. MeanAe. aegyptidaily abundance was negatively associated with daily temperature. No infection by ZIKV, DENV or CHIKV was detected in anyAedesmosquitoes caught by either trapping method.ConclusionWe conclude the MET performs at least as well as the BGS standard and offers the additional advantage of direct measurement ofper capitahuman-biting rates. If detection of arboviruses can be confirmed in MET-collectedAedesin future studies, this surveillance method could provide a valuable tool for surveillance and prediction on human arboviral exposure risk.

Anthracnose in organic bananas is an aggressive, difficult to control postharvest disease. Essential oils have been studied in order incorporate them into integrated pest management, and to reduce synthetic fungicides during the postharvest period. In vitro assays showed that thyme oil was the best essential oil to control mycelial growth of Colletotrichum musae. This essential oil was tested in vivo because of its fungicidal effect. The results showed that, after storage and shelf life at 20 °C, severity inhibition of C. musae on fruit treated with 500 μL L−1 of thyme oil (30.8%) was higher (p

The application of genome-wide cytonuclear molecular data to identify management and adaptive units at various spatio-temporal levels is particularly important for overharvested large predatory organisms, often characterized by smaller, localized populations. Despite being “near threatened”, current understanding of habitat use and population structure of Carcharhinus galapagensis is limited to specific areas within its distribution. We evaluated population structure and connectivity across the Pacific Ocean using genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (~7200 SNPs) and mitochondrial control region sequences (945 bp) for 229 individuals. Neutral SNPs defined at least two genetically discrete geographic groups: an East Tropical Pacific (Mexico, east and west Galapagos Islands), and another central-west Pacific (Lord Howe Island, Middleton Reef, Norfolk Island, Elizabeth Reef, Kermadec, Hawaii and Southern Africa). More fine-grade population structure was suggested using outlier SNPs: west Pacific, Hawaii, Mexico, and Galapagos. Consistently, mtDNA pairwise Φ(ST) defined three regional stocks: east, central and west Pacific. Compared to neutral SNPs (F(ST) = 0.023–0.035), mtDNA exhibited more divergence (Φ(ST) = 0.258–0.539) and high overall genetic diversity (h = 0.794 ± 0.014; π = 0.004 ± 0.000), consistent with the longstanding eastern Pacific barrier between the east and central–west Pacific. Hawaiian and Southern African populations group within the west Pacific cluster. Effective population sizes were moderate/high for east/west populations (738 and 3421, respectively). Insights into the biology, connectivity, genetic diversity, and population demographics informs for improved conservation of this species, by delineating three to four conservation units across their Pacific distribution. Implementing such conservation management may be challenging, but is necessary to achieve long-term population resilience at basin and regional scales.

espanolEste articulo analiza el efecto del 1-Meticlciclpropeno en la inhibicion de etileno en el fruto de babaco (Vasconcellea x heilbornii var. Pentagona) en tres estados de madurez del fruto y tres tiempos de exposicion. Se empleo un Diseno Completamente al Azar (DCA) con cuatro repeticiones. Las variables bajo estudio fueron: la perdida de peso, la frmeza, la concentracion total de solidos solubles y el porcentaje de acidez titulable. La menor perdida de peso se registro para frutos cosechados de forma temprana (color “Verde”) y expuestos al 1-Meticlciclpropeno por un periodo corto (7 dias). En el caso de la variable frmeza de fruto, los mejores resultados se obtuvieron al cosechar los frutos cuando estos se cosechan en estado “Verde”. La concentracion de solidos solubles fue mayor para los frutos cosechados en estado “Verde-Amarillo” y “Amarillo”, mientras que los valores de porcentaje de acidez titulable se incrementan con la madurez del fruto. El tiempo de inmersion no tuvo efectos signifcativos para las variables frmeza de fruto, concentracion de solidos solubles y porcentaje acidez titulable. EnglishThis article analyzes the effect of 1-Meticlclclpropen on the inhibition of ethylene in babaco fruit (Vasconcellea x heilbornii var. Pentagona), with three ripe stages and three exposition times. A Complete Random Design with four repetitions was used. The variables under study were: loss of weight, fruit firmness, total concentration of soluble solids and percentage of titrated acidity. The lowest loss of weight was obtained for fruits harvested earlier (“Green”) and exposed to 1-Meticlciclpropen for a short period of time (7 days). In the case of fruit firmness, the best results were obtained when fruits were harvested “Green”. The total concentration of soluble solids was higher for fruits harvested in stages “Green-Yellow” and “Yellow”, while the values of titrated acidity increased with the fruit ripeness. The time of exposure to 1-Meticlclclpropen had no significant effect on fruit firmness, total concentration of soluble solids and percentage of titrated acidity.

Introduction.Ecuador occupies the fourth place in cocoa exports with 293,487 tons per year, produced on 559,617 hectares. However, its yield per hectare is low mainly due to the presence of pathogens that affect the pods.Objective.To evaluates different methods of control of pathogens of theTheobroma cacaocv ‘CCN-51’ pod.Materials and methods.The work was carried out in Luz de America, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Ecuador, between 2016 and 2017. The treatments were the result of the combination of cultural practices + two fungicides (Chlorothalonil and Pyraclostrobin) + one biofungicide Serenade® (Bacillus subtilisQST713), with and without fertilizers. In total, 16 treatments were evaluated with 3 replicates or blocks, installed in a commercial cocoa plantation cv ‘CCN-51’ and under a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD).Results.The use of fungicides (chemical and biological), decreased the incidence of moniliasis (Moniliophthora roreri), black pod rot (Phytophthoraspp.), and cherelle wilt; but the application of fertilizers did not increase the effectiveness of these products. Treatment with only cultural practices did not decrease the final incidence of moniliasis, nor of brown rot, in contrast, the final incidence of cherelle wilt increased. The number of pods and the yield were not directly related and the highest yield of fermented and dry cocoa, corresponded to T9 [Cultural labors + Serenade® (0.2 kg ha-1) (every 15 days) + Fertilizer (0.3 kg ha-1) + Fertilizer (1 kg plant-1)], a treatment that also had the highest net income per hectare.Conclusion.Chemical and biological control can manage cocoa pods pathogens. The integration of both control methods allowed the cocoa producer to obtain greater income. Introducción.Ecuador ocupa el cuarto lugar en exportaciones de cacao con 293 487 toneladas al año, producidas en 559,617 hectáreas. Sin embargo, su rendimiento por hectárea es bajo debido principalmente a la presencia de patógenos que afectan la mazorca.Objetivo.Evaluar métodos de control de patógenos de la mazorca deTheobroma cacaocv ‘CCN-51’.Materiales y métodos.El estudio se llevó a cabo en Luz de América, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Ecuador, entre 2016 y 2017. Los tratamientos fueron el resultado de la combinación de labores culturales + dos fungicidas (Clorotalonil y Pyraclostrobin) + un biofungicida Serenade® (Bacillus subtilisQST713), con y sin fertilizantes. En total se evaluaron dieciséis tratamientos con tres réplicas o bloques, instalados en una plantación comercial de cacao cv ‘CCN-51’ y bajo un diseño de bloques completos al azar (DBCA).Resultados.El uso de fungicidas (químicos y biológicos), disminuyó la incidencia de la moniliasis (Moniliophthora roreri), pudrición negra de la mazorca (Phytophthoraspp.) y cherelle wilt; pero la aplicación de fertilizantes no aumentó la efectividad de estos productos. El tratamiento solo con labores culturales, no disminuyó la incidencia final de la moniliasis, tampoco de la pudrición negra de la mazorca, en cambio, aumentó la incidencia final del cherelle wilt. El número de mazorcas y el rendimiento no estuvieron directamente relacionados y el mayor rendimiento de cacao fermentado y seco, correspondió al T9 [labores culturales + Serenade® (0,2 kg ha-1) (c/ 15 días) + fertilizante, (0,3 kg ha-1) + abono (1 kg planta-1)], tratamiento que también tuvo el mayor ingreso neto por hectárea.Conclusión.El control químico y biológico pueden combatir patógenos de la mazorca de cacao. La integración de los dos métodos de control permitió al productor obtener mayores ingresos.

The discovery of the first case of gynandromorphism in Eulaema meriana (Olivier) is described and illustrated. A specimen from Los Ríos, western Ecuador, discovered in the Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (MECN) collection, exhibits mostly male features on the left and female features on the right, except for the jugal comb of the hind wing and terminalia. This finding is compared to other reported cases in orchid bees.

Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide distributed parasite causing abortions and fetal malformations in small ruminants. The aim of this study was to design and validate a new immunoassay based on the use of TgSAG1-GRA8 chimeric antigen for the detection of anti-T. gondii antibodies in serum of goats. First, a time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TgSAG1-GRA8-TRFIA) was developed. In addition, the diagnostic performance of TgSAG1-GRA8-TRFIA was compared with an optimized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (TgSALUVET-ELISA) and a Western Blot (WB), both based on whole T. gondii tachyzoite antigenic extract. The TgSAG1-GRA8-TRFIA has shown a high intra- and inter-assay precision, analytical sensitivity and accuracy. The ROC analysis of this assay showed an optimal cut-off of 217.4 Units of Fluorometry for T. gondii (UFT), with 92 % of sensitivity and 90.48 % of specificity. A positive and statistically significant Spearman's correlation with TgSALUVET-ELISA was detected, and kappa value was 0.83, presenting high agreement with both methods. However, TgSAG1-GRA8 protein showed cross-reactivity with specific anti-Neospora caninum antibodies. Thus, TgSAG-1-GRA8 chimeric antigen seems not to be an ideal option for the serodiagnosis of T. gondii infection in goats unless combined with the serodiagnosis of N. caninum infection in parallel. In the light of the results obtained, a comprehensive study on the existence of cross-reactivities between T. gondii antigens used in serological tests employed in animal health and specific antibodies directed against Toxoplasmatinae parasites should be performed.

The Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis) is one of over thirty shark species inhabiting the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR), where it is a priority species for conservation. Identifying stock structure and effective population size for species-specific management and effective conservation of this top predator is important. We examined stock structure, connectivity and effective population size of Galapagos sharks among GMR locations using genome-wide neutral Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (8103 SNP) and mtDNA markers. Potential historical gene flow and/or sex-biased dispersal were also examined using the mitochondrial control region (997 bp). Cluster analyses of neutral SNPs revealed two differentiated stocks in the GMR—a western (Isabela Island) and eastern (San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands) stock. Effective population size (Ne) estimates of approximately 200 suggest these populations are susceptible to ongoing natural and anthropogenic stressors and are of concern for long term resilience of populations. Mitochondrial DNA failed to identify distinct stocks, with AMOVA analyses indicating most genetic variation occurs within, rather than among locations. This pattern of genome-wide nuclear (but not mtDNA) discrimination among neighbouring islands either points to possible sex-biased dispersal by females or identifies limitations of the single organelle mtDNA marker at such small spatial scales. Regional differences across the archipelago or in behaviour may be implicated in the observed population structure. Further research focusing on a larger, Pacific wide analysis of population connectivity and effective population size at a broader spatial scale is required, to estimate the extent of discreteness and potential local adaptation. Potential adaptive units (AUs) in Galapagos sharks should ultimately be identified to leverage adaptive management and fisheries forensics applications.

We report the recent finding of four adults of Atelopus longirostris, a Critically Endangered species that was last seen in 1989, when catastrophic Atelopus declines occurred. The rediscovery of A. longirostris took place in a new locality, Junín, 1250–1480 m asl, Provincia Imbabura, Ecuador, on 28–31 March 2016. The four frogs were found in two isolated small patches of native forest in a fragmented area heavily modified for agriculture and livestock; one patch protected by the Junín Community Reserve, and another non-protected private patch near the reserve. We found high prevalence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) in the amphibian community of Junín, but A. longirostris tested negative. The finding of A. longirostris after 27 years is surprising and fits an apparent pattern of mild conditions that might be promoting either the recovery or persistence in low numbers of some relict amphibian populations. The frogs are the first founders of an ex situ assurance colony in Jambatu Research and Conservation Center. Expansion of the Junín Community Reserve is urgently needed to add the currently non-protected patch of forest, where A. longirostris also occurs. The restoration of the forest in degraded areas between both forest patches and in the related river margins is also necessary. This restoration will grant the connectivity between both isolated metapopulations and the normal movement of individuals to the breeding sites in the Chalguayacu and Junín River basins. The latter should be protected to prevent any kind of water pollution by the opencast copper exploitation of the mining concession Llurimagua, which is underway. Atelopus longirostris belongs to a group of at least 29 species of Ecuadorian Atelopus that are critically endangered, 15 of which remain unsighted for at least one decade, and most of them might be extinct. Further synchronous, multidisciplinary and integrative research is needed, aiming to understand the most aspects of the biology of species of Atelopus to support in situ and ex situ conservation actions.

BackgroundEntomological monitoring ofAedesvectors has largely relied on surveillance of larvae, pupae and non-host-seeking adults, which have been poorly correlated with human disease incidence. Exposure to mosquito-borne diseases can be more directly estimated using Human Landing Catches (HLC), although this method is not recommended forAedes-borne arboviruses. We evaluated a new method previously tested with malaria vectors, the Mosquito Electrocuting Trap (MET) as an exposure-free alternative for measuring landing rates ofAedesmosquitoes on people. Aims were to 1) compare the MET to the BG-sentinel (BGS) trap gold standard approach for sampling host-seekingAedesvectors; 2) characterize the diel activity ofAedesvectors and their association with microclimatic conditions.MethodsThe study was conducted over 12 days in Quinindé – Ecuador in May 2017. Mosquito sampling stations were set up in the peridomestic area of four houses. On each day of sampling, each house was allocated either a MET or a BGS trap, which were rotated amongst the four houses daily in a Latin square design. Mosquito abundance and microclimatic conditions were recorded hourly at each sampling station between 07:00-19:00 hours to assess variation between vector abundance, trapping methods, and environmental conditions. AllAedes aegyptifemales were tested for the presence of Zika (ZIKV), dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses.ResultsA higher number ofAe. aegyptifemales were found in MET than in BGS collections, although no statistically significant differences in meanAe. aegyptiabundance between trapping methods were found. Both trapping methods indicated femaleAe. aegyptihad bimodal patterns of host seeking, being highest during early morning and late afternoon hours. MeanAe. aegyptidaily abundance was negatively associated with daily temperature. No infection by ZIKV, DENV or CHIKV was detected in anyAedesmosquitoes caught by either trapping method.ConclusionWe conclude the MET performs at least as well as the BGS standard, and offers the additional advantage of direct measurement ofper capitahuman biting rates. If detection of arboviruses can be confirmed in MET-collectedAedesin future studies, this surveillance method could provide a valuable tool for surveillance and prediction on human arboviral exposure risk.

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system?associated Cas9 endonuclease is a molecular tool that enables specific sequence editing with high efficiency. In this study, we have explored the use of CRISPR/Cas9 system for the engineering of baculovirus. We have shown that the delivering of Cas9-single guide RNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex with or without DNA repair template into Sf21 insect cells through lipofection might be efficient to produce knockouts as well as knock-ins into the baculovirus. To evaluate potential application of our CRISPR/Cas9 method to improve baculovirus as protein expression vector and as biopesticide, we attempted to knockout several genes from a recombinant AcMNPV form used in the baculovirus expression system as well as in a natural occurring viral isolate from the same virus. We have additionally confirmed the adaptation of this methodology for the generation of viral knock-ins in specific regions of the viral genome. Analysis of the generated mutants revealed that the editing efficiency and the type of changes was variable but relatively high. Depending on the targeted gene, the editing rate ranged from 10% to 40%. This study established the first report revealing the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome editing in baculovirus, contributing to the engineering of baculovirus as a protein expression vector as well as a biological control agent. Fil: Pazmiño Ibarra, Verónica. Universidad de Valencia; España Fil: Mengual Martí, Adrià. Universidad de Valencia; España Fil: Targovnik, Alexandra Marisa. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Nanobiotecnología. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica. Instituto de Nanobiotecnología; Argentina Fil: Herrero, Salvador. Universidad de Valencia; España

Lab on a Chip (LOC) farming systems have emerged as a powerful tool for single cell studies combined with a non‐adherent cell culture substrate and single cell capture chips for the study of single cell derived tumor spheres. Cancer is characterized by its cellular heterogeneity where only a small population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for tumor metastases and recurrences. Thus, the in vitro strategy to the formation of a single cell‐derived sphere is an attractive alternative to identify CSCs. In this study, we test the effectiveness of microdevices for analysis of heterogeneity within CSC populations and its interaction with different components of the extracellular matrix. CSC could be identify using specific markers related to its pluripotency and self‐renewal characteristics such as the transcription factor Oct‐4 or the surface protein CD44. The results confirm the usefulness of LOC as an effective method for quantification of CSC, through the formation of spheres under conditions of low adhesion or growing on components of the extracellular matrix. The device used is also a good alternative for evaluating the individual growth of each sphere and further identification of these CSC markers by immunofluorescence. In conclusion, LOC devices have not only the already known advantages, but they are also a promising tool since they use small amounts of reagents and are under specific culture parameters. LOC devices could be considered as a novel technology to be used as a complement or replacement of traditional studies on culture plates. Fil: Belgorosky, Denise. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Oncología "Ángel H. Roffo"; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Fernández Cabada, Tamara. Universidad Tecnológica Nacional. Facultad Regional Haedo; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Peñaherrera Pazmiño, Ana Belén. Universidad Tecnológica Nacional. Facultad Regional Haedo; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Langle, Yanina Verónica. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Oncología "Ángel H. Roffo"; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Booth, Ross. Millipore Sigma Corporation; Estados Unidos Fil: Bhansali, Shekhar. University of Florida; Estados Unidos Fil: Perez, Maximiliano Sebastian. Universidad Tecnológica Nacional. Facultad Regional Haedo; Argentina. University of Florida; Estados Unidos. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Eijan, Ana Maria. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Oncología "Ángel H. Roffo"; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Lerner, Betiana. Universidad Tecnologica Nacional. Facultad Regional Haedo. Centro de Ingenieria de Recubrimientos Especiales y Nanoestructuras.; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina

With just a handful of documented cases of hybridisation in cartilaginous fishes, shark hybridisation remains poorly investigated. Small amounts of admixture have been detected between Galapagos (Carcharhinus galapagensis) and dusky (Carcharhinus obscurus) sharks previously, generating a hypothesis of ongoing hybridisation. We sampled a large number of individuals from areas where the species co-occur (contact zones) across the Pacific Ocean and used both mitochondrial and nuclear-encoded SNPs to examine genetic admixture and introgression between the two species. Using empirical analytical approaches and simulations, we first developed a set of 1873 highly informative SNPs for these two species to evaluate the degree of admixture between them. Overall, results indicate a high discriminatory power of nuclear SNPs (FST = 0.47, p 0.05), which failed to differentiate these species. We identified four hybrid individuals (∼1%) and detected bi-directional introgression between C. galapagensis and C. obscurus in the Gulf of California along the east Pacific coast of the Americas. We emphasize the importance of including a combination of mtDNA and diagnostic nuclear markers to properly assess species identification, detect patterns of hybridisation, and better inform management and conservation of these sharks, especially given the morphological similarities within the genus Carcharhinus.

Scinax is a speciose genus of Neotropical hylid frogs. We describe a new species from western Ecuador (elevations between 0 and 1207 m) using morphology, vocalizations, and DNA sequences. We also present a new phylogeny for Scinax based on mitochondrial DNA genes 12S rRNA, Cytochrome Oxidase sub-unit I, Cytochrome B, 16S rRNA, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1, and adjacent tRNAs. The new species, Scinax tsachila sp. nov. was previously confused with S. quinquefasciatus, a morphologically similar sympatric species. They differ by having markedly different advisement calls, distinct skin texture in the dorsum, and different bone coloration. The new species is sister to S. elaeochroa, a species that differs in advertisement call and color pattern. We provide an updated species account for Scinax quinquefasciatus and a redescription of its holotype.

The study evaluates alternative methods to control Botrytis cinerea in strawberry crops (Fragaria vesca) with the use of plant extracts of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.). The research carried out in an established strawberry culture of 8 months of age, Albion variety, applying the extracts obtained by the steam distillation method. The doses evaluated were 250ml / liter, 500ml / liter, 750ml / liter and 1000ml / liter respectively, measuring the inhibitory effect of B. cinerea in the field 40 days after the first application. The analyzed variables were severity, incidence and weight of the fruit, finding a better fungicidal effect with cinnamon extract with a dose of 1000ml / liter, being a new alternative for fungal control taking advantage of the use of the secondary metabolites of the plants and having a less harmful effect on environmental pollution that does not affect the health of the farmer. El estudio evalúa los métodos alternativos para controlar Botrytis cinerea en cultivos de fresa (Fragaria vesca) con el aprovechamiento de los extractos vegetales de canela (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) y cola de caballo (Equisetum arvense L.). La investigación se realizó en un cultivo establecido de fresa de 8 meses de edad,variedad Albión, aplicando los extractos obtenidos por el método de destilación por arrastre de vapor. Las dosis evaluadas fueron 250ml/lt, 500ml/lt, 750ml/lt y 1000ml/lt respectivamente, midiendo el efecto inhibitorio de B. cinerea en el campo a los 40 días de la primera aplicación. Las variables analizadas fueron severidad, incidencia y peso del fruto, encontrando un mejor efecto fungicida con extracto de canela con una dosis de 1000ml/lt, siendo una nueva alternativa para el control fúngico aprovechando el uso de los metabolitos secundarios de las plantas y teniendo un efecto menos nocivo en la contaminación ambiental que no afecta la salud del agricultor

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:13:01Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-01-01 The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare, clinically, the efficiency of the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) using the tunnel technique to cover the multiple gingival recessions on anterior teeth, in the same patient. Within the limits of this study, we conclude that both SCTG and L-PRF proved to be reliable options for the treatment of gingival recessions, efficiently supporting the biological and aesthetic demand, stimulating the periodontal tissues' health, and bringing reliable and highly predictable results. Hospital for Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies (HRAC) University of São Paulo (USP) Department of Oral Surgery Universidade do Sagrado Coração (USC) Department of Periodontics Universidad del Pacífico (UP) Department of Surgery Universidad Católica Nuestra Señora de la Asunción-Guairá (UCG) Universidad del Pacífico (UP) Department of Surgery and Integrated Clinic Araçatuba Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Department of Prosthodontics Bauru School of Dentistry (FOB) and Hospital for Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies (HRAC) University of São Paulo (USP) Department of Biological Sciences Bauru School of Dentistry (FOB) University of São Paulo (USP) Department of Surgery and Integrated Clinic Araçatuba Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

(Received: 2014/08/01 - Accepted: 2014/09/22)The province of Bolivar is located in the central-west region of Ecuador. The main beverages produced are spirits and chichas; among them “rice chicha”. In a first stage, samples of rice chicha (at points of sale) from different producers of this province were evaluated; microbial counts and physicochemical analyzes were performed. In the second stage, the most representative enterobacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and molds were isolated form “rice chicha” during three phases of the elaboration process: initial, fermentative and final. For all microorganisms, macroscopic and microscopic descriptions were performed. The identification of enterobacteria and lactic acid bacteria was carried out with biochemical tests, for mold a microscopic identification was applied by staining with lactophenol blue solution and for yeast the APIC AUX 20 kit was used. Count values in average were 2.7 and 2.5 log CFU / ml of total coliforms and enterobacteria, 1.8 log CFU / ml of lactic acid bacteria and 2.5 log CFU / ml for yeasts and molds. During the three fermentation phases the most representative species were partially identified: 13 strains of Enterobacteriaceae, 9 strains of lactic acid bacteria, 15 strains of mold and 6 strains of yeast., (Recibido: 2014/08/01 - Aceptado: 2014/09/22)La provincia de Bolívar se encuentra ubicada en el centro-occidente del Ecuador. Las principales bebidas tradicionales que allí se producen son los aguardientes y las chichas; entre ellas sobresale la chicha de arroz. En una primera etapa, se evaluaron muestras de chicha de arroz (en los puntos de venta) de diferentes productores de la provincia; se realizaron recuentos microbiológicos y análisis físico-químicos. En la segunda etapa, se aislaron e identificaron enterobacterias, bacterias ácido lácticas, mohos y levaduras, en tres fases del proceso de elaboración (inicial, fermentativo y final). Para todos los microorganismos se realizaron descripciones macroscópicas y microscópicas. La identificación de enterobacterias y bacterias ácido lácticas se realizó mediante pruebas bioquímicas, para los mohos se realizó una identificación microscópica mediante tinción con azul de lactofenol y para las levaduras se usó el kit API 20 C AUX. En relación a los recuentos se obtuvieron en promedio valores de 2.7 y 2.5 log UFC/ml de coliformes totales y enterobacterias respetivamente, 1.8 log UFC/ml de bacterias ácido lácticas y 2.5 log UFC/ml de Mohos y levaduras. Se identificaron en las tres fases: 13 cepas de enterobacterias, 9 cepas de bacterias ácido lácticas, 15 cepas de mohos y 6 cepas de levaduras.

Streptomyces scabies is a common soil bacterium that causes scab symptoms in potatoes. Strong evidence indicates horizontal gene transfer (HGT) among bacteria has influenced the evolution of this plant pathogen and other Streptomyces spp. To extend the study of the HGT to the Streptomyces genus, we explored the effects of the inter-domain HGT in the S. scabies genome. We employed a semi-automatic pipeline based on BLASTp searches and phylogenetic reconstruction. The data show low impact of inter-domain HGT in the S. scabies genome; however, we found a putative plant pathogenesis related 1 (PR1) sequence in the genome of S. scabies and other species of the genus. It is possible that this gene could be used by S. scabies to out-compete other soil organisms.

In this work the differential response of adult and young leaves from pea (Pisum sativum L.) plants to the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (23 mm) applied by foliar spraying was investigated. The concentration of 2,4-D (23 mm) and the time of treatment (72 h) were previously optimized in order to visualize its toxic effects on pea plants. Under these conditions, the herbicide induced severe disturbances in mesophyll cells structure and proliferation of vascular tissue in young leaves and increased acyl-CoA oxidase (ACX), xanthine oxidase (XOD) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities in young leaves, and only ACX and LOX in adult leaves. This situation produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) over-accumulation favoured by the absence of significant changes in the enzymatic antioxidants, giving rise to oxidative damages to proteins and membrane lipids. An increase of ethylene took place in both young and adult leaves and the induction of genes encoding the stress proteins, PRP4A and HSP 71,2, was observed mainly in young leaves. These results suggest that ROS overproduction is a key factor in the effect of high concentrations of 2,4-D, and ROS can trigger a differential response in young and adult leaves, either epinasty development in young leaves or senescence processes in adult tissues.

A statistical analysis was carried out on the characterization of domestic solid waste that was generated in the San Sebastian del Coca parish which belongs to the Canton Joya de los Sachas. This paper focuses on quantifying the generation of solid waste, calculating the per capita production, determining the composition and density of solid waste, and characterizing the amount and composition of the DSW generated by the samples taken from the San Sebastián del Coca parish. 48 families were chosen to carry out the research with an average of 4 inhabitants per family for a total of 192 people. As for the methodology, the simple random sampling method was used. A total of 96 dwellings samples that were obtained directly from the dwellings was chosen to be part of the study sample. The results showed that the generation of solid waste, in other words the PPC of domestic solid waste, was 0.87 kg/inhab/day. This is with a total of 167.04 kg/day, which were collected by collector trucks and disposed according to the ordinance of the canton. The characterization of domestic solid waste in the parish has organic waste located in the first place with 78.2%. Next was the generation of plastic bags with 6.19%. This, therefore, was followed by cardboard with 5%, plastic 7.7%, and paper with 2.99%.

Objective: The aim of this study was to obtain pigeon pea protein concentrate (PC) of green seeds and mature seeds from Cajanus cajan grown in Ecuador and evaluate their functional properties.Methods: Pigeon PC of green seeds (GPPPC) and pigeon PC of mature seeds (MPPPC) were obtained by alkaline extraction (pH 8.5) using the isoelectric precipitation at pH 4.5 method. Content of protein was determined using the Dumas method. Functional properties were evaluated with the following functional properties: Protein solubility (PS), water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC), emulsifying activity index (EAI), emulsion stability index (ESI), foaming capacity (FC), and foam stability (FS).Results: GPPPC and MPPPC are statistical different (p

Phenylacetone monooxygenase (PAMO) from Thermobifida fusca is a FAD-containing Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenase (BVMO). To elucidate the mechanism of conversion of phenylacetone by PAMO, we have performed a detailed steady-state and pre-steady-state kinetic analysis. In the catalytic cycle ( k cat = 3.1 s (-1)), rapid binding of NADPH ( K d = 0.7 microM) is followed by a transfer of the 4( R)-hydride from NADPH to the FAD cofactor ( k red = 12 s (-1)). The reduced PAMO is rapidly oxygenated by molecular oxygen ( k ox = 870 mM (-1) s (-1)), yielding a C4a-peroxyflavin. The peroxyflavin enzyme intermediate reacts with phenylacetone to form benzylacetate ( k 1 = 73 s (-1)). This latter kinetic event leads to an enzyme intermediate which we could not unequivocally assign and may represent a Criegee intermediate or a C4a-hydroxyflavin form. The relatively slow decay (4.1 s (-1)) of this intermediate yields fully reoxidized PAMO and limits the turnover rate. NADP (+) release is relatively fast and represents the final step of the catalytic cycle. This study shows that kinetic behavior of PAMO is significantly different when compared with that of sequence-related monooxygenases, e.g., cyclohexanone monooxygenase and liver microsomal flavin-containing monooxygenase. Inspection of the crystal structure of PAMO has revealed that residue R337, which is conserved in other BVMOs, is positioned close to the flavin cofactor. The analyzed R337A and R337K mutant enzymes were still able to form and stabilize the C4a-peroxyflavin intermediate. The mutants were unable to convert either phenylacetone or benzyl methyl sulfide. This demonstrates that R337 is crucially involved in assisting PAMO-mediated Baeyer-Villiger and sulfoxidation reactions.

Estudio realizado en 72 muestras de brócoli provenientes de seis provincias del Ecuador, reveló que el 43,06% de ellas contenían residuos de los plaguicidas Cypermetrina, Permetrina, Clorpirifos, λCyhalotrina, Difenoconazol, Diflubenzuron y Metalaxil, (categoría toxicológica III), Boscalid (categoría toxicológica IV) y Endosulfan ( categoría toxicológica IB), en niveles de concentración que no superan los LMRs estipulados por el CODEX Alimentarius, sin embargo se evidenció que estos residuos son inferiores en los cultivos destinados a exportación, frente a los cultivos de consumo local.

Although many theoretical models of sympatric speciation propose that genes responsible for assortative mating amongst incipient species should be associated with genomic regions protected from recombination, there are few data to support this theory. The malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, is known for its sympatric cryptic species maintained by pre-mating reproductive isolation and its putative genomic islands of speciation, and is therefore an ideal model system for studying the genomic signature associated with incipient sympatric speciation. Here we selectively introgressed the island of divergence located in the pericentric region of the X chromosome of An. gambiae s.s. into its sister taxon An. coluzzii through 5 generations of backcrossing followed by two generations of crosses within the introgressed strains that resulted in An. coluzzii-like recombinant strains fixed for the M and S marker in the X chromosome island. The mating preference of recombinant strains was then tested by giving virgin recombinant individuals a choice of mates with X-islands matching and non-matching their own island type. We show through genetic analyses of transferred sperm that recombinant females consistently mated with matching island-type males thereby associating assortative mating genes with the X-island of divergence. Furthermore, full-genome sequencing confirmed that protein-coding differences between recombinant strains were limited to the experimentally swapped pericentromeric region. Finally, targeted-genome comparisons showed that a number of these unique differences were conserved in sympatric field populations, thereby revealing candidate speciation genes. The functional demonstration of a close association between speciation genes and the X-island of differentiation lends unprecedented support to island-of-speciation models of sympatric speciation facilitated by pericentric recombination suppression., Author Summary Anopheles gambiae is the most important vector of malaria in Africa. This species is undergoing speciation and a number of subpopulations have been identified which can produce viable hybrid offspring but are reproductively isolated through assortative mating and ecological adaptation. This complex structure provides an ideal system for studying the unique genetic and behavioural processes required for speciation. Anopheles gambiae’s subpopulations differ genetically in limited regions of their genomes called islands of speciation. Theoretical studies predict that these islands, characterized by restricted genetic rearrangements, may protect genes of assortative mating between emerging species, and are fundamental to the speciation process. We set out to test this prediction by performing complex genetic crosses between the sister species Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae s.s. and creating recombinant strains differing only at their X-chromosome island of speciation. We show through behavioural studies that recombinant females consistently mated with matching island-type males thereby associating assortative mating genes with the X-island of divergence. By sequencing the genetic code of the recombinant strains and natural populations, we could confirm these findings and identify candidate assortative mating genes. These findings suggest an important role of divergence islands for the genetic and behavioural processes associated with speciation.

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is a synthetic auxin used as a herbicide to control weeds in agriculture. A high concentration of 2,4-D promotes leaf epinasty and cell death. In this work, the molecular mechanisms involved in the toxicity of this herbicide are studied by analysing in Arabidopsis plants the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), and their effect on cytoskeleton structure and peroxisome dynamics. 2,4-D (23 mM) promotes leaf epinasty, whereas this process was prevented by EDTA, which can reduce OH accumulation. The analysis of ROS accumulation by confocal microscopy showed a 2,4-D-dependent increase in both H2O2 and O2-, whereas total NO was not affected by the treatment. The herbicide promotes disturbances on the actin cytoskeleton structure as a result of post-translational modification of actin by oxidation and S-nitrosylation, which could disturb actin polymerization, as suggested by the reduction of the F-actin/G-actin ratio. These effects were reduced by EDTA, and the reduction of ROS production in Arabidopsis mutants deficient in xanthine dehydrogenase (Atxdh) gave rise to a reduction in actin oxidation. Also, 2,4-D alters the dynamics of the peroxisome, slowing the speed and shortening the distances by which these organelles are displaced. It is concluded that 2,4-D promotes oxidative and nitrosative stress, causing disturbances in the actin cytoskeleton, thereby affecting the dynamics of peroxisomes and some other organelles such as the mitochondria, with xanthine dehydrogenase being involved in ROS production under these conditions. These structural changes in turn appear to be responsible for the leaf epinasty. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Experimental Biology., DP and MR-S acknowledge fellowships JAE-Pre and JAE-DOC, respectively, from the CSIC, and the European Social Fund (ESF). This work was supported by ERDF-co-financed grants BIO2008-04067 and BIO2012-36742 from MICINN and Junta de Andalucía (BIO-337), Spain. The authors acknowledge Dr D. McCurdy and Dr Sagi for providing the GFP–FABD2 and xdh Arabidopsis lines, respectively. We thank Dr T. Ketelaar for critical reading of the manuscript. The confocal laser fluorescence microscopy analyses were carried out at the Technical Services of the University of Jaén and University of Granada.

Anthocyanin pigment content and profile from Oxalis triangularis (oxalis) was investigated for the first time. The pigments were extracted, purified using C-18 resin and characterized by HPLC, UV-visible spectral analysis, physicochemical reactions, and mass spectrometry before and after alkaline and acid hydrolysis. Monomeric anthocyanin content was 195 mg/100 g leaves on malvidin-3,5-diglucoside basis. Colour characteristics of a pH 3.5 oxalis anthocyanin extract (optical density of 0.3, 520 nm) were 86.0, 9.8 and 8.0 for Hunter CIE L*, hue angle and chroma, respectively. Three anthocyanins represented 90% of the total peak area obtained by HPLC. The major anthocyanin was malvidin-3-rutinoside-5-glucoside and the others were acylated derivatives containing one and two molecules of malonic acid esterified to the main structure. The attractive hue, high anthocyanin content and edible character of O. triangularis make it a potential desirable source of natural colorant.

Banana (Musa X paradisiaca) bracts, abundant edible residues of banana production, were investigated as a potential source of natural colorant. Anthocyanins were extracted with acidified methanol, purified using C-18 resin, and characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, physicochemical reactions, HPLC, and electrospray mass spectrometry. Monomeric anthocyanin content was 32.3 mg/100 g bracts on a cyanidin-3-rutinoside basis. Color characteristics (Hunter CIE L*hc) of a solution (absorbance of 0.3, 520 nm, pH 3.5), were L*=86.8, h=44.2 and c=12.7. Cyanidin-3-rutinoside represented ∼80% of the total pigment. Other anthocyanins were 3-rutinoside derivatives of delphinidin, pelargonidin, peonidin and malvidin. One acylated anthocyanin (∼2% of the pigment) was found but not identified. Acid hydrolysis of anthocyanins revealed the concomitant presence of six more common anthocyanidins (delphinidin, cyanidin, petunidin, pelargonidin, peonidin and malvidin) suggesting that, besides being a good pigment source, it could also be a useful tool for anthocyanin identification.

The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) causes uncontrolled cell division and malformed growth in plants, giving rise to leaf epinasty and stem curvature. In this study, mechanisms involved in the regulation of leaf epinasty induced by 2,4-D were studied using different chemicals involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation (diphenyleniodonium, butylated hydroxyanisole, EDTA, allopurinol), calcium channels (LaCl3), protein phosphorylation (cantharidin, wortmannin) and ethylene emission/perception (aminoethoxyvinyl glycine, AgNO3). The effect of these compounds on the epinasty induced by 2,4-D was analysed in shoots and leaf strips from pea plants. For further insight into the effect of 2,4-D, studies were also made in Arabidopsis mutants deficient in ROS production (rbohD, rbohF, xdh), ethylene (ein 3-1, ctr 1-1, etr 1-1), abscisic acid (aba 3.1), and jasmonic acid (coi 1.1, jar 1.1, opr 3) pathways. The results suggest that ROS production, mainly ·OH, is essential in the development of epinasty triggered by 2,4-D. Epinasty was also found to be regulated by Ca2+, protein phosphorylation and ethylene, although all these factors act downstream of ROS production. The use of Arabidopsis mutants appears to indicate that abscisic and jasmonic acid are not involved in regulating epinasty, although they could be involved in other symptoms induced by 2,4-D.

Mutational events as well as the selection of the optimal variant are essential steps in the evolution of living organisms. The same principle is used in laboratory to extend the natural biodiversity to obtain better catalysts for applications in biomanufacturing or for improved biopharmaceuticals. Furthermore, single mutation in genes of drug-metabolizing enzymes can also result in dramatic changes in pharmacokinetics. These changes are a major cause of patient-specific drug responses and are, therefore, the molecular basis for personalized medicine. MuteinDB systematically links laboratory-generated enzyme variants (muteins) and natural isoforms with their biochemical properties including kinetic data of catalyzed reactions. Detailed information about kinetic characteristics of muteins is available in a systematic way and searchable for known mutations and catalyzed reactions as well as their substrates and known products. MuteinDB is broadly applicable to any known protein and their variants and makes mutagenesis and biochemical data searchable and comparable in a simple and easy-to-use manner. For the import of new mutein data, a simple, standardized, spreadsheet-based data format has been defined. To demonstrate the broad applicability of the MuteinDB, first data sets have been incorporated for selected cytochrome P450 enzymes as well as for nitrilases and peroxidases. Database URL: http://www.MuteinDB.org.

Although structurally similar to the natural plant hormone indol-3- acetic acid, auxin herbicides were developed for purposes other than growth, and have been successfully used in agriculture for the last 60 years. Concerted efforts are being made to understand and decipher the precise mechanism of action of IAA and synthetic auxins. Innumerable results need to be interconnected to resolve the puzzle of auxin biology and action mode of auxin herbicides. To date, different breakthroughs are providing more insights into the process of plant-herbicide interactions. Here we highlight some of the latest findings on how the 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid damages susceptible broadleaf plants, emphasizing the role of ROS as a downstream component of the auxin signal transduction under herbicide treatment.

Peroxisomes, single-membrane-bounded organelles with essentially oxidative metabolism, are key in plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. Recently, the presence of nitric oxide (NO) described in peroxisomes opened the possibility of new cellular functions, as NO regulates diverse biological processes by directly modifying proteins. However, this mechanism has not yet been analysed in peroxisomes. This study assessed the presence of S-nitrosylation in pea-leaf peroxisomes, purified S-nitrosylated peroxisome proteins by immunoprecipitation, and identified the purified proteins by two different mass-spectrometry techniques (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time-of-flight and two-dimensional nano-liquid chromatography coupled to ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry). Six peroxisomal proteins were identified as putative targets of S-nitrosylation involved in photorespiration, β-oxidation, and reactive oxygen species detoxification. The activity of three of these proteins (catalase, glycolate oxidase, and malate dehydrogenase) is inhibited by NO donors. NO metabolism/S-nitrosylation and peroxisomes were analysed under two different types of abiotic stress, i.e. cadmium and 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D). Both types of stress reduced NO production in pea plants, and an increase in S-nitrosylation was observed in pea extracts under 2,4-D treatment while no total changes were observed in peroxisomes. However, the S-nitrosylation levels of catalase and glycolate oxidase changed under cadmium and 2,4-D treatments, suggesting that this post-translational modification could be involved in the regulation of H(2)O(2) level under abiotic stress.

We conducted a survey on the mycorrhizal status of neotropical ferns, focusing on previously neglected taxa. These include the filmy ferns (Hymenophyllaceae), grammitid ferns (Polypodiaceae), and the genus Elaphoglossum (Dryopteridaceae). Samples were collected at different sites in southern Ecuador, Prov. Loja, Morona-Santiago, and Zamora-Chinchipe. Among the 85 investigated species (101 samples, 10 families), 19 were associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and 36 were infected by dark septate endophytes (DSE), which are identified as ascomycetes and here considered as a kind of mycorrhiza similar to the ericoid type. The roots of 30 species (including all non-grammitid Polypodiaceae and half of the Elaphoglossum species) were free of evident fungal infection. AMF were frequent in terrestrial species (29.10 of species, or 48.49 of infected terrestrial samples). DSE prevailed in epiphytic species (58.62 of species, or 96.15 of infected epiphytic samples) and were also common in terrestrial samples of predominantly epiphytic species. © 2009, Americian Fern Society.