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The textile industry is essential, but it is also responsible for causing environmental problems, particularly the discharge of dyes. In this context, this study aimed to immobilize a previously purified peroxidase, called MoPOX, on glutaraldehyde-activated chitosan beads in order to improve the potential for textile dye decolorization. The chitosan beads were activated with 8% glutaraldehyde for 1 h, and the immobilization was performed at 30 °C, pH 5.2 for 4 h. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses were used to observe the differences in the chitosan beads after immobilization. The optimum temperature dropped from 70 °C to 30 °C after immobilization, but immobilized MoPOX demonstrated excellent heat stability. The optimum pH remained 5.2, while the apparent kinetic constant value (Km) of immobilized MoPOX (14.67 mM) was lower in comparison to free MoPOX (46.8 mM). The immobilized enzyme showed improved activity after long storage times, and it could retain 40 % of its original activity even after 5 cycles. The potential for decolorization of different textile dyes was considerably enhanced after immobilization, reaching more than 80 %. Also, MoPOX showed no toxicity towards Artemia salina. Overall, the findings point to the promising potential of using immobilized MoPOX as a biocatalyst in a variety of biotechnological applications.

Basil is a medicinal and spice plant widely used in the Northeast region of Brazil. However, its production can be affected by the soil salinity and water used for irrigation. For the development o...

A valorização de vegetais frescos, como o feijão-caupi imaturo, tem demonstrado um crescimento nos últimos anos, favorecendo o aumento gradativo na aquisição destes produtos pelos consumidores. No entanto, tais alimentos não são livres de micro-organismos, sendo necessários processos que priorizem a segurança microbiológica e o controle restrito da temperatura. Diante do exposto, objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a ação de diferentes tratamentos pós-colheita e tempo de armazenagem sobre os micro-organismos presentes em grãos imaturos de feijão-caupi da variedade sempre-verde. Sendo os tratamentos: T1 acondicionamento em embalagem (testemunha); T2 acondicionamento em embalagem + refrigeração; T3 condicionamento em embalagem + vácuo + refrigeração; T4 acondicionamento em embalagem + branqueamento + refrigeração; T5 acondicionamento em embalagem + branqueamento + vácuo + refrigeração. Realizaram-se as análises microbiológicas aos 10, 20 e 40 dias de armazenamento, em que para cada época, quatro repetições foram aleatoriamente amostradas e avaliadas, por tratamento, e os resultados obtidos foram expressos sob a forma de tabela. Foram realizadas as observações da incidência de bactérias, e a identificação de fungos via microscópio óptico comum. Conforme os resultados. o pré-tratamento de branqueamento em T4 e T5 apresenta uma maior redução da diversidade de micro-organismos nos grãos imaturos de feijão-caupi após armazenagem, no entanto, não é capaz de eliminar completamente fungos produtores de micotoxinas e bactérias. Palavras-chave: Feijão-Verde. Conservação Alimentar. Segurança Alimentar. Abstract The appreciation of fresh vegetables, such as immature cowpea, has shown a growth in recent years, favoring the gradual increase in the purchase of these products by consumers. However, such food is not free of microorganisms, requiring processes that prioritize microbiological safety and restricted temperature control. Given the above, the objective of this work was to evaluate the action of different post-harvest treatments and storage time on microorganisms present in immature cowpea grains of the evergreen variety. The treatments: T1 packaging in packaging (control); T2 packaging in packaging + refrigeration; T3 packaging conditioning + vacuum + refrigeration; T4 packaging in packaging + bleaching + refrigeration; T5 packaging in packaging + bleaching + vacuum + refrigeration. Microbiological analyzes were performed at, 10, 20 and 40 days of storage, where for each season, four replications were randomly sampled and evaluated, per treatment, and the results obtained were expressed in the form of a table. Observations of bacteria incidence were carried out, as well as the fungi identification using a standard optical microscope. According to the results, the bleaching pretreatment in T4 and T5 presents a greater reduction in the diversity of microorganisms in immature cowpea grains after storage, however, it it is not able to completely eliminate mycotoxin-producing fungi and bacteria. Keywords: Green Beans. Food Conservation. Food Security.

Fungi of the genus Trichoderma are important microorganisms for increasing plant growth. However, few studies have evaluated the potential of volatile compounds produced by the fungus Trichoderma spp. and it's potential as promoters and beneficiaries with respect to maize cultivation. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the efficiency of volatile compounds produced by Trichoderma spp. and their potential for morphophysiological improvement in the initial growth of corn crops. The experiment was conducted in a factorial scheme (2x6+1), arranged in a completely randomized design, with two evaluation times (7 and 15 days after emergence (DAE) and five Trichoderma spp. isolates (plus one control). The isolates were classified as the following species and identified with the following codes: UFT-25: Trichoderma harzianum; UFT-37: Trichoderma pinnatium; UFT-57: Trichoderma virens; UFT-201: Trichoderma asperellum and UFT-204: Trichoderma longibrachiatum. The volatile compounds produced by Trichoderma spp. and inoculated in culture medium present in each experimental unit without direct contact with the roots of the plants, promoted an increase mass production and changed morphology and physiology, especially plant height, leaf area, absolute and relative growth rate, Falker chlorophyll index, instantaneous carboxylation efficiency (RuBisCo), and net photosynthesis rate

In this work, the ethanol fuel dehydration process was optimized using the Aspen Plus? simulator and a multivariate statistical technique based on the desirability function. The suitability of the ionic liquids 1-methylimidazolium chloride ([Mim][Cl]), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Emim][Cl]), 1-butyl- -3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim][Cl]) and 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Hmim][Cl]), as extractive distillation entrainers, was also evaluated and compared to the conventional solvents, ethylene glycol and cyclohexane. Among the solvents studied, [Mim][Cl] required the lowest energy consumption, about 8% less energy use when compared to the optimized process using ethylene glycol. The multivariate statistical techniques employed were effective in the optimization of the extractive distillation processes as the process energy consumption could be minimized while achieving ethanol purity in agreement with the current specifications as well as obtaining a high solvent recovery. With the desirability approach it was possible to improve the process performance with little or no modification of existing processing plants.

This study carried out the screening of wastes from Amazon plants to produce hydrolysates with a high monosaccharides content for ethanol production. Initially, we hydrolyzed (diluted acid) Amazon wastes (peel from the fruit of Astrocaryum aculeatum Meyer, peel from the fruit of Bactris gasipaes Kunth, straw obtained from endocarp of the fruit of Euterpe oleracea Mart., peel from the fruit of Theobroma grandiflorum Schumann and peel from the root of Manihot esculenta Crant) to obtain hydrolysates with the high content of fermentable sugars. Then, we investigated by 23 factorial design the influence of the factors: a) hydrolysis time (min); b) H2SO4-to-waste ratio (g/g) and c) solid-to-liquid ratio (g/mL) in the variables reducing sugars and furans. The hydrolysis of the peel of the fruit of Bactris gasipaes resulted in the highest concentration of reducing sugars (23.7 g/L). After detoxification and concentration process, the Bactris gasipaes hydrolysate results in 96.7 g/L of reducing sugars largely fermentable (90%) by Saccharomyces cerevisiae PE-2. The experimental design demonstrated that the factors H2SO4-to-waste ratio (g/g) and solid-to-liquid ratio (g/mL) were the most significant affecting the final content of reducing sugars and furans in the hydrolysate of the peel of Bactris gasipaes. Hydrolysis time of 4.4 min, H2SO4-to-waste ratio of 0.63 g/g, and the solid-to-liquid ratio of 0.17 g/mL resulted in the concentration of reducing sugars of 49 g/L. This study shows the potential of peels from the fruit of Bactris gasipaes to produce ethanol.

The genus Cnidoscolus (Euphorbiaceae) is widely distributed in tropical areas. In the Northeast of Brazil, the species C. quercifolius is endemic and has been used in traditional medicine. In this study, a novel protein was isolated from C. quercifolius seeds and characterized by its molecular weight, primary structure, isoelectric point (pI), and carbohydrate content. The hypoglycemic activity of this protein was investigated by in vitro assay with the RIN-5F glucose-responsive cell line and in vivo test using alloxan-induced diabetic mice models. In addition, safe use of the protein was also investigated by cytotoxicity, hemagglutinating, and immunogenicity assays. The protein which was named Cq-IMP (Cnidoscolus quercifolius - Insulin Mimetic Protein) showed a single 11.18 KDa glycopolypeptide chain (16.4% of carbohydrates, m/m), pI of 8.0 and N-terminal sequence (TKDPELKQcKKQQKKqQQYDDDDKK) with similarity around 46-62% to sucrose binding protein-like and vicilin-like protein that was confirmed by mass spectrometry tryptic peptides analysis. Besides that, Cq-IMP presented anti-insulin antibody cross-reactivity as hypoglycemic activity in both in vitro and in vivo models. Additionally, it did not present any toxicity by methods tested. In conclusion, Cq-IMP is an insulin-mimetic protein, with a potent hypoglycemic activity and no toxicity showing great potential for therapeutic applications and drug development.

In this study, the growth and productive characteristics of the soybean were investigated in no-till system after using limestone in a tropical soil of the Brazilian Cerrado. The study was conducted in a Typic Hapludox. The sources of limestone came from Piauí miners (C1, C2 and C3) and from a mining company in Ceará (C4) plus a control treatment (without limestone), with four replicates, during the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 growing seasons, in a randomized block design. The limestone was applied in October 2012, using a gravity distribution. The limestone rate applied was 2.73 Mg ha-1 to raise the soil base saturation to 60%. The final plant stand, relative chlorophyll index, leaf area index, shoot dry matter, photosynthetically active radiation, the efficiency of photosynthetically active radiation, number of stems, pod number per plant, thousand-grain mass and grain yield of the soybean were evaluated. There were significant differences between the sources of limestone, with emphasis on the sources C1 and C4 due to the greater increases in plant growth and soybean grain yield (79% and 90%, respectively, in the 2014/2015 harvest). Soybean yield is correlated to the vegetative and reproductive development of the plant when cultivated in a tropical soil of the Cerrado corrected with limestone.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical attributes of the soil cultivated with ‘Gigante’ cactus pear under different doses of organic fertilizer, planting spacings and sampling times. Four doses of organic fertilizer with bovine manure (0, 30, 60 and 90 Mg ha-1 year-1), three spacings (1.0 x 0.5, 2.0 x 0.25 and 3.0 x 1.0 x 0.25 m) and three sampling times (0, 390 and 600 days after planting) corresponding to the periods prior to planting, growth and harvest of the first cycle, were evaluated in a randomized block design in a 4 x 3 x 3 factorial scheme, with three repetitions. The pH in water, macronutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg), micronutrients (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn), variables of the soil sorption complex (H + Al, SB, CEC, T, V) and soil organic matter (SOM) were determined. Organic fertilization increased the values of SOM, P, K, Ca, Mg, SB, CEC, T and V and reduced H + Al in soils cultivated with ‘Gigante’ cactus pear at different times. The doses of manure increased pH and Mn, regardless of sampling time and spacing. The spacings did not influence the chemical attributes of the soil. RESUMO Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar os atributos químicos do solo cultivado com palma forrageira ‘Gigante’ sob diferentes doses de adubo orgânico, espaçamentos de plantio e épocas de amostragem. Foram avaliadas quatro doses de esterco bovino (0; 30; 60 e 90 Mg ha-1 ano-1), três espaçamentos (1,0 x 0,5; 2,0 x 0,25 e 3,0 x 1,0 x 0,25 m) e três épocas de amostragem de solo (0; 390 e 600 dias após plantio) correspondentes às épocas antes do plantio, crescimento e colheita do primeiro ciclo, dispostos no delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 4 x 3 x 3, com três repetições. Foram determinados o pH em água, macronutrientes (P, K, Ca, Mg), micronutrientes (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn), variáveis do complexo sortivo do solo (H + Al, SB, CTC, T, V) e matéria orgânica do solo (MOS). A adubação orgânica incrementou os valores de MOS, P, K, Ca, Mg, SB, CTC, T, V, e diminuiu o de H + Al nos solos cultivados com palma forrageira ‘Gigante’ em diferentes épocas. As doses de esterco incrementaram o pH e Mn, independentemente de época e espaçamento. Os espaçamentos não influenciaram nos atributos químicos do solo.

Dermatophytes belonging to Trichophyton ssp. are important anthropophilic and zoophilic pathogens, which developed resistance to griseofulvin, the common antifungal drug used to treat dermatophytosis. In this context, Moringa oleifera seed proteins have been described as antifungal agents with potential applications. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the antidermatophytic in vitro, focusing on mechanisms, and in vivo potential of Mo-CBP4, purified from M. oleifera seeds. Mo-CBP4was purified after protein extraction with 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 8.0, and chromatography on chitin and CM Sepharose™ columns and antidermatophytic potential of Mo-CBP4 evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, Mo-CBP4 reduced in 50% the germination of microconidia of Trichophyton mentagrophytes at 45 μM; but did not show inhibition of mycelial growth. Mo-CBP4 (45 μM) presents the inhibitory activity even when incubated with N-acetyl- d -glucosamine (NAG). Analysis of the mechanisms of Mo-CBP4 revealed an increase in membrane permeability, ROS overproduction and damage to cell wall leading to microconidia death. Furthermore, using in vivo models, Mo-CBP4 (5, 10 and 20 mg g−1) reduced the severity and time of dermatophytosis. Altogether, these findings indicate that Mo-CBP4 has great potential for the development of novel antifungal drugs for the clinical treatment of dermatophytosis.

The salinity of irrigation water is one of modern agriculture’s major obstacles, as it can damage the plants metabolism and, consequently, its development. Currently there is a great demand for substances that may mitigate such effects, such as salicylic acid. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of salicylic acid application on watermelon plants (Citrullus lanatus L.) under salinity stress. The experimental design was a randomized block design, in an incomplete factorial scheme, with four replications and two plants per replicate. The treatments resulted from the combination of five concentrations of salicylic acid (0.00, 0.15, 0.50, 0.85 and 1.00 mM) and five electrical conductivities of the irrigation water (0.50, 1.01, 2.25, 3.49 and 4.00 dS m-1). The development, gas exchange, chlorophyll index and fluorescence were evaluated 30 days after transplanting. This data was submitted to analysis of variance and then confidence bands (confbands) and Pearson correlation were produced. The application of salicylic acid (up to 0.85 mM) promotes beneficial effects for the watermelon plants morphophysiology, while the increase in electrical conductivity of the irrigation water is harmful.

Persistent and ubiquitous organic pollutants, such as the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon benzo[⍺]pyrene (BaP), represent a major threat to aquatic organisms and human health. Beside some well-documented adverse effects on the development and reproduction of aquatic organisms, BaP was recently shown to affect fish bone formation and skeletal development through mechanisms that remain poorly understood. In this work, zebrafish bonerelated in vivo assays were used to evaluate the osteotoxic effects of BaP during bone development and regeneration. Acute exposure of zebrafish larvae to BaP from 3 to 6 days post-fertilization (dpf) induced a dosedependent reduction of the opercular bone size and a depletion of osteocalcin-positive cells, indicating an effect on osteoblast maturation. Chronic exposure of zebrafish larvae to BaP from 3 to 30 dpf affected the development of the axial skeleton and increased the incidence and severity of skeletal deformities. In young adults, BaP affected the mineralization of newly formed fin rays and scales, and impaired fin ray patterning and scale shape, through mechanisms that involve an imbalanced bone remodeling. Gene expression analyses indicated that BaP induced the activation of xenobiotic and metabolic pathways, while negatively impacting extracellular matrix formation and organization. Interestingly, BaP exposure positively regulated inflammation markers in larvae and increased the recruitment of neutrophils. A direct interaction between neutrophils and bone extracellular matrix or bone forming cells was observed in vivo, suggesting a role for neutrophils in the mechanisms underlying BaP osteotoxicity. Our work provides novel data on the cellular and molecular players involved in BaP osteotoxicity and brings new insights into a possible role for neutrophils in inflammatory bone reduction. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Nitrite contaminants in freshwater streams, resulting from run-off of fertilizers and livestock farming, are a major ecological challenge. Here, we have developed a new family of catalysts based on Pd/Al2O3 coated with N-isopropylacrylamide polymer (p-NIPAM) brushes that increase N-N bond formation over N-H bond formation, promoting nitrogen selectivity by 3-fold, reaching >99% for the Pd/Al2O3 containing 20 wt% carbon in the form of p-NIPAM, without significant drops in catalytic activity (TOF of c.a. 6.8 ± 1.1 min−1). Strikingly, rigorous mass transport studies revealed that the presence of p-NIPAM does not limit the transfer of molecules during the hydrogenation of nitrites in aqueous phase. These observations were corroborated by detailed reaction kinetics in which similar activation barriers for nitrites disappearance of 30–34 kJ mol−1 were obtained regardless the polymer content. The observed reaction orders for nitrites were similar on the coated and un-coated catalysts, indicating that the rate determining step, most likely NOX-H bond formation, remained unaltered. The apparent barriers for ammonia formation, however, drastically increased from 41 ± 3 kJ mol−1 on Pd/Al2O3 to 63 ± 4 kJ mol−1 and 76 ± 5 kJ mol−1 on the 7 and 20 wt% C counterparts, respectively. Contrary to the widely accepted operation mode of thermo-responsive catalysts containing p-NIPAM brushes, we demonstrated that these polymers modify the chemical environment near the active site as shown by in-situ ATR data, tunning the catalyst selectivity without altering the molecular transport. These results will facilitate the development of more selective catalysts for liquid phase reactions relevant for drinking water purification.

A desidratacao de alimentos consiste na retirada de agua sob condicoes controladas de tempo, temperatura e velocidade do ar, podendo ser aplicada em diferentes alimentos. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar fichas fisicas e sensorialmente desidratado de maca sabor natural e canela. Macas in natura avaliadas pelo meio de selecao, fator de correcao (FC), rendimento (R%) em polpa e umidade, foram utilizados na fabricacao de chips desidratado. A desidratacao foi monitorada pela perda de massa (PM) e o produto final submetido a determinacao de umidade, R% e qualidade sensorial. Nao foram verificadas perdas durante o processamento, considerando a adequabilidade da materia prima, representada pela ausencia de sinais aparentes de danos fisicos e microbiologicos, baixo FC e elevado R%. Reducao de agua da fruta in natura quando desidratada em estufa a 80-85oC, sendo observada PM expressiva nos tempos 1 a 5 e menores teores nos tempos 6 ao 9, totalizando 9 horas, alcancando valor final de 3,33% e R% medio de 17,62% para ambos os sabores. Houveram mudancas (p≤0,05) de sabor e textura do chips desidratado sabor canela, sem prejuizos para o aroma. Todos os atributos tem escores nos termos hedonicos “gostei moderadamente” e “gostei muito”, indice de aceitabilidade superior a 80%. A saborizacao com canela interferiu (p≤0,05) na intencao de compra dos chips desidratados. Os resultados demonstraram o potencial de producao e comercializacao da maca desidratada tanto sabor natural quanto sabor canela.

Plant proteins are emerging as an alternative to conventional treatments against candidiasis. The aim of this study was to better understand the mechanism of action of Mo-CBP2 against Candida spp, evaluating redox system activity, lipid peroxidation, DNA degradation, cytochrome c release, medium acidification, and membrane interaction. Anti-candida activity of Mo-CBP2 decreased in the presence of ergosterol, which was not observed with antioxidant agents. C. albicans treated with Mo-CBP2 also had catalase and peroxidase activities inhibited, while superoxide dismutase was increased. Mo-CBP2 increased the lipid peroxidation, but it did not alter the ergosterol profile in live cells. External medium acidification was strongly inhibited, and cytochrome c release and DNA degradation were detected. Mo-CBP2 interacts with cell membrane constituents, changes redox system enzymes in C. albicans and causes lipid peroxidation by ROS overproduction. DNA degradation and cytochrome c release suggest apoptotic or DNAse activity. Lipid peroxidation and H+-ATPases inhibition may induce the process of apoptosis. Finally, Mo-CBP2 did not have a cytotoxic effect in mammalian Vero cells. This study highlights the biotechnological potential of Mo-CBP2 as a promising molecule with low toxicity and potent activity. Further studies should be performed to better understand its mode of action and toxicity.

Endophytic bacteria has been reported as plant growth promoters in various cultivated and uncultivated plants. Thus, the objective onf this study was to evaluate the potential of 21 endophytic bacterial isolated from leaves of passionfruit plants (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa). In vitro antagonism, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, gibberellins, cytokines and phosphate solubilization were also tested. In vitro antagonism was investigated using volatile metabolites detection by means of the overlapping dishes technique and direct confrontation. The production of IAA was evaluated by means of the colorimetric method with the absorbance reading of the optical density at O.D. (550nm). The phosphate solubilization was measured in a qualitative method by reading the solubilization halo diameter and the quantitative evaluation in liquid medium and reading of O.D. (450 nm). All bacterial isolates were able to inhibit the growth of Phytophthora sp. in both methods with values ranging from 50% to >90% inhibition (Skott-Knott, p ≤0 0.05). All the tested endophytic bacteria were also able to produce plant hormones. The phosphate solubilization was more than mean of the liquid medium. Thus, the studied endophytic bacterial isolates are suggested as potential plant growth promoters.

Human activities have enhanced environmental contamination by heavy metals such as mercury. One of the possible approaches to reducing mercury toxicity is chelation, with several plant compounds demonstrating this effect, such as gallic acid. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant, metal chelating and cytoprotective activity of gallic acid against the action of Mercury Chloride (HgCl2). Iron II and III chelation as well as antioxidant activity assays were performed using the DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method. The interaction between the metal and the phenolic compound was identified by infrared spectroscopy. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was determined by microdilution. From these results, and using a sub-inhibitory concentration (64 μg mL−1 for bacterial and fungal assay respectively) of the phenolic compound, the Minimum Bactericidal (MBC) and Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC) were evaluated. Allelopathy and cytoprotection assays were performed using eukaryotic and prokaryotic models, with a protection of the fungi being observed. When using a plant model with a sub-allelopathic concentration (32 μg mL−1), the results demonstrated the cytoprotective effect of gallic acid against HgCl2, increasing the extension of caulicles and radicles as well as their dry mass. This protection may be associated with the chelating effect of gallic acid. These results demonstrate that natural products such as gallic acid may be used for toxic metal chelation allowing plant development in polluted environments thus retrieving land usage for crops or forestry initiatives.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the caffeic acid antioxidant and cytoprotective activity against Mercury Chloride (HgCl2) action. DPPH and iron chelation assays were performed to evaluate the antioxidant activity. The interaction between the metal and phenolic compounds was identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and microbiological tests were performed using microdilution, obtaining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) and the Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC). To evaluate cytoprotection in the plant model, a sub-allelopathic product concentration (32 μg/mL) and different heavy metal concentrations were used. Caffeic acid was observed to confer cytoprotection to Lactuca sativa seeds, allowing greater growth and development of both plant radicles and caulicles. This result may be attributed to the chelating and antioxidant effect of the caffeic acid, thereby reducing the toxicity of the metal. These results demonstrate the possibility of using natural products as an alternative for heavy metal chelation and to enable a greater development of plants present in contaminated areas. These results become important given the high environmental contamination by heavy metals recently, preventing the growth of important plants both from an environmental and economic point of view, thus providing a viable alternative for minimizing the problem becomes indispensable.

Staphylococcus aureus represents the most common etiologic agent of purulent infections, affecting humans and animals. Escherichia coli is one of the principal causes of infectious diseases, mainly diarrheal diseases due to enterotoxin action. There are many reports indicating that these bacteria are multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens.In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial and modulatory activities of 5-hydroxy-3,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone (VG.EF.CLII) against E. coli and S. aureus strains.5-Hydroxy-3,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone was isolated from Vitex gardneriana Schauer leaves and structurally characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance. The antibacterial effect of VG.EF.CLII and modulation of antibiotic activity, both determined by minimum inhibitory concentration, were assessed using microtiter plates.VG.EF.CLII showed bacterial growth inhibition at concentrations ≤512 μg/mL, and synergistic effects were observed for the modulation of two distinct antibiotic classes (the fluoroquinolone norfloxacin and the aminoglycoside gentamicin).5-Hydroxy-3,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone isolated from V. gardneriana showed promising antimicrobial activity against MDR bacterial strains S. aureus 358 and E. coli 27 when associated with the antibiotics norfloxacin and gentamicin. Therefore, this natural product can contribute to the control of bacterial resistance.

PTDC/FIS‐ AQM/31281/2017 PD/00193/2012 We report absolute photoabsorption cross sections for gas‐phase 2‐ and 5‐ bromopyrimidine in the 3.7–10.8 eV energy range, in a joint theoretical and experimental study. The measurements were carried out using high‐resolution vacuum ultraviolet synchrotron radiation, with quantum chemical calculations performed through the nuclear ensemble approach in combination with time‐dependent density functional theory, along with additional Franck–Condon Herzberg–Teller calculations for the first absorption band (3.7–4.6 eV). The cross sections of both bromopyrimidines are very similar below 7.3 eV, deviating more substantially from each other at higher energies. In the 7.3–9.0 eV range where the maximum cross‐section is found, a single and broad band is observed for 5‐bromopyrimidine, while more discernible features appear in the case of 2‐bromopyrimidine. Several π* ← π transitions account for the most intense bands, while weaker ones are assigned to transitions involving the nitrogen and bromine lone pairs, the antibonding σ*Br orbital, and the lower‐lying Rydberg states. A detailed comparison with the available photo‐absorption data of bromobenzene is also reported. We have found significant differences regarding the main absorption band, which is more peaked in bromobenzene, becoming broader and shifting to higher energies in both bromopyrimidines. In addition, there is a significant suppression of vibrational structures and of Rydberg states in the pair of isomers, most noticeably for 2‐bromopyrimidine. publishersversion published

In the search for alternatives to chlorine-containing gases, tetrafluoroethane, CF3CH2F (R134a), a widely used refrigerant gas, has been recognized as a promising substitute for dichlorodifluoromethane, CCl2F2 (R12). When R12 is replaced by R134a, the global warming potential drops from 8100 to 1430, the ozone depletion potential changes from 1 to 0, and the atmospheric lifetime decreases from 100 to 14 years. Electron interactions in the gas phase play a fundamental role in the atmospheric sciences. Here, we present a detailed study on electron-driven fragmentation pathways of CF3CH2F, in which we have investigated processes induced by both electron ionization and electron attachment. The measurements allow us to report the ion efficiency curves for ion formation in the energy range of 0 up to 25 eV. For positive ion formation, R134a dissociates into a wide assortment of ions, in which CF3+ is observed as the most abundant out of seven ions with a relative intensity above 2%. The results are supported by quantum chemical calculations based on bound state techniques, electron-impact ionization models, and electron-molecule scattering simulations, showing a good agreement. Moreover, the experimental first ionization potential was found at 13.10 ± 0.17 eV and the second at around 14.25 eV. For negative ion formation, C2F3- was detected as the only anion formed, above 8.3 eV. This study demonstrates the role of electrons in the dissociation of R134a, which is relevant for an improvement of the refrigeration processes as well as in atmospheric chemistry and plasma sciences.

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The existence of diagnostic features in the visible and infrared regions makes it possible to use reflectance spectra not only to identify mineral assemblages but also for calibration and classification of satellite images, considering lithological and/or mineral mapping. For this purpose, a consistent spectral library with the target spectra of minerals and rocks is needed. Currently, there is big market pressure for raw materials including lithium (Li) that has driven new satellite image applications for Li exploration. However, there are no reference spectra for petalite (a Li mineral) in large, open spectral datasets. In this work, a spectral library was built exclusively dedicated to Li minerals and Li pegmatite exploration through satellite remote sensing. The database includes field and laboratory spectra collected in the Fregeneda–Almendra region (Spain–Portugal) from (i) distinct Li minerals (spodumene, petalite, lepidolite); (ii) several Li pegmatites and other outcropping lithologies to allow satellite-based lithological mapping; (iii) areas previously misclassified as Li pegmatites using machine learning algorithms to allow comparisons between these regions and the target areas. Ancillary data include (i) sample location and coordinates, (ii) sample conditions, (iii) sample color, (iv) type of face measured, (v) equipment used, and for the laboratory spectra, (vi) sample photographs, (vii) continuum removed spectra files, and (viii) statistics on the main absorption features automatically extracted. The potential future uses of this spectral library are reinforced by its major advantages: (i) data is provided in a universal file format; (ii) it allows users to compare field and laboratory spectra; (iii) a large number of complementary data allow the comparison of shape, asymmetry, and depth of the absorption features of the distinct Li minerals. The authors are grateful for the financial support provided by FCT– Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, I.P., through the ERA-MIN/0001/2017–LIGHTS project and also the 869274–GREENPEG–H2020-SC5-2018-2019-2020 project. The work was also supported by National Funds through the FCT project UIDB/04683/2020–ICT (Institute of Earth Sciences). Joana Cardoso-Fernandes and Filipa Dias are financially supported within the compass of their respective Ph.D. theses, ref. SFRH/BD/136108/2018 and ref. 2020.05534.BD, by national funds from MCTES through FCT, and cofinanced by the European Social Fund (ESF) through POCH—Programa Operacional Capital Humano—and NORTE 2020 regional program. The Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovacion y Universidades (Project RTI2018-094097-B-100, with ERDF funds) and the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) (grant GIU18/084) also contributed economically. The French National Research Agency (ANR–10–LABX 21–LABEX RESSOURCES 21) partly supported Master Student personal grant and the 776804–NEXT– H2020-SC5-2017 project participated to equipment purchase.

This study estimated the nitrate and potassium concentration in the soil solution of drainage lysimeter using the mathematical models developed by Vogeler et al. (1996) and Muñoz-Carpena et al. (2005) and the computational model Hydrus-2D, while comparing the simulated and observed data using statistical parameters. The cultivar used for the study was ‘Prata Gorutuba’. The experimental plots were six lysimeters of drainage. Fertigation was performed weekly. The mathematical models developed by Vogeler et al. (1996) and Muñoz-Carpena et al. (2005) were used to determine the specific concentration of a given ion (Ci). The Hydrus software was used to simulate the dynamics of nutrients. The concentrations of nitrate and potassium in the soil solution were estimated by the model of Vogeler et al. (1996), adapted to the linear type CEw-Ci ratio and simulated by the Hydrus model, resulting in an acceptable characterization of the distribution of these nutrients. Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a concentração de nitrato e potássio na solução do solo, em lisímetro de drenagem com o uso dos modelos matemáticos desenvolvidos por Vogeler et al. (1996) e Muñoz-Carpena et al. (2005) e do modelo computacional Hydrus-2D e comparar os dados simulados e observados usando parâmetros estatísticos. A cultivar utilizada para o estudo foi a ‘Prata Gorutuba’. As parcelas experimentais foram seis lisímetros de drenagem. A fertirrigação foi realizada semanalmente. Os modelos matemáticos desenvolvidos por Vogeler et al. (1996) e Muñoz-Carpena et al. (2005), foram utilizados para determinar a concentração específica de um determinado íon (Ci). O software Hydrus foi utilizado para simular a dinâmica de nutrientes. As concentrações de nitrato e potássio na solução do solo, estimados por meio do modelo de Vogeler et al. (1996) adaptado para a relação CEw-Ci do tipo linear e simulado pelo modelo Hydrus apresentou uma caracterização aceitável da distribuição desses nutrientes.

The objective of this study was to develop a chitosan-based biomaterial with calcium hydroxide and 2% chlorhexidine for intracanal treatment application and, consequently, to diminish the number of microorganisms in the root canal system. The chitosan solution was prepared by dissolving it in 2% and 4% acetic acid (v/v) for 1 h at room temperature (25 &deg, C) with magnetic agitation (430 rpm). Calcium hydroxide was obtained in two stages: the first was the synthesis of the calcium oxide&mdash, CaO, and the second was that of the calcium hydroxide&mdash, Ca(OH)2. The samples were developed using different concentrations of chitosan, calcium hydroxide, and chlorhexidine 2%. They were codified as Ca(OH)2 + Q2% (M1), Ca(OH)2 + Q4% (M2), Ca(OH)2 + Q2% + CLX (M3), Ca(OH)2 + Q4% + CLX (M4), Ca(OH)2 + Q2% + PEG (M5), and Ca(OH)2 + Q4% + PEG (M6). They were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and rheological measurement, and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated in vitro. Characteristic absorption bands of the source materials used in this research were observed in the FTIR spectra. The X-ray diffraction technique indicated that the material has a semi-crystalline structure and that the presence of calcium hydroxide made the biomaterial more crystalline. The viscosity measurement showed a pseudoplastic behavior of the studied samples. The microbiologic analysis was positive for all samples tested, with bigger inhibition zones for the samples M3 and M4. As a result, we conclude that the formulation developed based on chitosan is promising and has potential to be an intracanal medication.

The objective of this study was to evaluate nutrient export, nutritional balance and macronutrient recovery rate in ‘Gigante cactus pear under different fertilization doses, spacings and configurations during three production cycles. The 72 treatments were arranged in a randomized block design with three repetitions, two configurations in the plots (triple and quadruple row), three spacings in the subplots (3.00 x 1.00 x 0.25 m; 3.00 x 1.00 x 0.16 m and 3.00 x 1.00 x 0.125 m); and 12 types of fertilization in the sub-subplots (with organic, organomineral and mineral sources). Exports of nutrients are higher under fertilizers with higher nutrient supplies, regardless of source. The order of export was K > Ca > N > Mg > S > P for mineral fertilization, organic fertilization with 30 Mg ha-1 year-1 and organomineral fertilization with 30 and 60 Mg ha-1 year-1 plus NPK and PK, and it changed to K > Ca > N > Mg > P > S under organic fertilization with 60 and 90 Mg ha-1 year-1 and organomineral fertilization with 90 Mg ha-1 year-1 plus K. The nutrient balance after three production cycles was positive for N, P and S, negative for Ca and Mg in all fertilizations, and positive for K under mineral fertilization with 600 kg ha-1 of K2O and organomineral fertilization with 30, 60 and 90 Mg ha-1 year-1 plus 600 kg ha-1 of K2O. The highest recovery rates of K and the lowest recovery rates of N occur under organic fertilization. RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar durante três ciclos de produção a exportação de nutrientes, o balanço nutricional e a taxa de recuperação de macronutrientes pela palma forrageira‘Gigante sob doses e fontes de adubação, e arranjos de disposição de plantas na área. Os 72 tratamentos foram dispostos em esquema de parcelas sub-subdivididas em delineamento em blocos casualizados com três repetições, sendo duas configurações nas parcelas (fileira tripla e quadrupla); três espaçamentos nas subparcelas (3,00 x 1,00 x 0,25 m; 3,00 x 1,00 x 0,16 m e 3,00 x 1,00 x 0,125 m); e 12 tipos de adubação nas sub-subparcelas (com fontes orgânica, organomineral e mineral). Os maiores aportes de nutrientes proporcionam maiores exportações, independentemente da fonte. A ordem de exportação de nutrientes foi K > Ca > N > Mg > S > P para as adubações mineral, orgânica com 30 Mg ha-1 ano-1 e organomineral com 30 e 60 Mg ha-1 ano-1 adicionada de N-P-K e P-K, enquanto nas adubações orgânicas com 60 e 90 Mg ha-1 ano-1 e organomineral com 90 Mg ha-1 ano-1 mais 600 kg ha-1 de K2O, a ordem de exportação altera para K > Ca > N > Mg > P > S. O balanço de nutrientes apos três ciclos foi positivo para N, P e S, como também para K nas adubações mineral com 600 kg ha-1 de K2O e organomineral com 30, 60 e 90 Mg ha-1 ano-1 de esterco bovino adicionado de 600 kg ha-1 de K2O. Porém, negativo para Ca e Mg em todas as adubações. As maiores taxas de recuperação de K e as menores de N ocorrem nas adubações orgânicas.

Soil organic matter (SOM) and the chemical attributes of the soil are important indicators of soil quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of strategies for controlling spontaneous plants on SOM quality and soil fertility in an area of forest under restoration. Three methods for controlling spontaneous plants were established: i) mechanical (MCH), ii) chemical (CHM), and iii) chemical-cultural (CC), and evaluated using a randomized block design. After 13 months, soil samples were collected (0-10 cm) to determine basal respiration over 21 days, total organic carbon (TOC), labile carbon (LC), chemical fractions of the SOM [humine (H), humic acid (HA) and fulvic acid (FA)], and soil fertility. On days 1, 3, and 7, higher values were seen for basal soil respiration, however, no differences were found between the control strategies. There was a small change in SOM quality and soil fertility. MCH showed higher values (up to 11%) for LC, due to the intense silvicultural management. After 13 months of application, each of the strategies for controlling spontaneous vegetation proved to be favorable in relation to SOM quality and soil fertility, especially for LC, due to its relationship with the accumulation or loss of SOM, and immediate response to changes in land use or management.

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus of the Americas that may cause a debilitating arthritogenic disease. The biology of MAYV is not fully understood and largely inferred from related arthritogenic alphaviruses. Here, we present the structure of MAYV at 4.4 Å resolution, obtained from a preparation of mature, infective virions. MAYV presents typical alphavirus features and organization. Interactions between viral proteins that lead to particle formation are described together with a hydrophobic pocket formed between E1 and E2 spike proteins and conformational epitopes specific of MAYV. We also describe MAYV glycosylation residues in E1 and E2 that may affect MXRA8 host receptor binding, and a molecular “handshake” between MAYV spikes formed by N262 glycosylation in adjacent E2 proteins. The structure of MAYV is suggestive of structural and functional complexity among alphaviruses, which may be targeted for specificity or antiviral activity., Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus in Central and South America that is transmitted by mosquitoes and causes arthritogenic disease. Here, the authors present the 4.4 Å resolution cryo-EM structure of MAYV and describe specific features of the virus, which could be exploited for the design of MAYV-specific diagnostics and therapeutics.

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus of the Americas that may cause a debilitating arthritogenic disease. The biology of MAYV is not fully understood and largely inferred from related arthritogenic alphaviruses. Here we present the structure of MAYV at 4.4 Å resolution, obtained from a preparation of mature, infective virions. MAYV presents typical alphavirus features and organization. Interactions between viral proteins that lead to particle formation are described together with a hydrophobic pocket formed between E1 and E2 spike proteins and conformational epitopes specific of MAYV. We also describe MAYV glycosylation residues in E1 and E2 that may affect MXRA8 host receptor binding, and a molecular “handshake” between MAYV spikes formed by N262 glycosylation in adjacent E2 proteins. The structure of MAYV is suggestive of structural and functional complexity among alphaviruses, which may be targeted for specificity or antiviral activity.

International audience; Although several lithium (Li) bearing minerals have already been spectrally characterized, there are no current reference spectra for petalite in large and public access spectral libraries. This fact is aggravated by the difficulty in the identification of petalite's diagnostic features. The study area of this work is the Fregeneda (Spain)-Almendra (Portugal) region, where distinct Li bearing minerals occur in several types of enriched pegmatite dikes. Accordingly, the objectives delineated for this work were: (i) improve the existing knowledge on the spectral signatures of Li bearing minerals (lepidolite, spodumene, petalite); (ii) compare the spectra obtained for petalite and spodumene in the study area; (iii) and compare the spectra of the Li bearing minerals from the Fregeneda-Almendra area with the reference spectra from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the ECOSTRESS and the Geological Survey of Brazil (CPRM) spectral libraries. For that, spectral measurements were conducted in the laboratory using the SR-6500A (Spectral Evolution, Inc.) spectrometer. The results only allowed to discriminate lepidolite, since that, both, petalite and spodumene, present absorption features typical of montmorillonite and illite, or a combination between these two minerals. This is also verified in samples of corresponding minerals in other spectral libraries. No diagnostic features of these two Li bearing minerals were identified, highlighting the difficulty to spectrally discriminate them from each other and from clay minerals.

Background: Crotalicidin (Ctn), a snake venom cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide, is a 34-residue-long linear lysine-rich vipericidin obtained from the South American rattlesnake, Crotalus durissus terrificus. Ctn contains tandem repeats of nine amino acid residues (1KRFKKFFKK9 and 16KRLKKIFKK24; consensus: 1KRhKKhFKK9, h = hydrophobic amino acid) as an integral part of its structure. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the encrypted vipericidin nonapeptide KRFKKFFKK, designated as Ctn[1-9], and its structural analogue, rhodamine- B‒conjugated Ctn[1-9], designated as RhoB-Ctn[1-9]. Method: The susceptibility of representative pathogenic bacteria and yeasts to antimicrobial agents was determined using the broth microdilution minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Cytotoxicity was estimated using a hemolytic assay. The accumulation of RhoB-Ctn[1-9] in microbial cells was observed by fluorescence microscopy. The antimicrobial synergism of RhoB-Ctn[1-9] with antimicrobials was evaluated using a checkerboard analysis. Results: RhoB-conjugated Ctn[1-9] displayed selective antimicrobial activity against infectious gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and pathogenic species of Candida with low hemolytic effects on human erythrocytes which were not observed with unconjugated Ctn[1-9]. RhoB-Ctn[1-9] could permeate cell membranes and accumulate intracellularly in microbial cells. RhoB-Ctn[1-9] exhibits synergistic effects when used with antibiotics or antifungal agents and reduced the MICs of the peptide and antimicrobials. Conclusion: These findings indicate the potential of crotalicidin-related short peptides as structural motifs for the diversification of biological functionalities. Further, they set the stage to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which chemically modified vipericidin repeats modulate cell fate.

Cereus jamacaru DC subsp. jamacaru (mandacaru) is an endemic species in Brazil belonging to Cactaceae of great ecological importance, as it is a pioneer in the colonization of arid and inhospitable environments, and contributes directly to the food chain for its fruits highly appreciated by fauna. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate, through chemical scarification, the germinative behavior of C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru. The cactus seeds were collected in May 2016 in the city of Quixelô-CE-Brazil. The acids used in chemical scarification were acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, propionic acid and sulfuric acid for 5, 10 and 15 minutes. The seeds were placed in Petri dishes, and placed to germinate in a B.O.D. with a light/dark cycle of 12 hrs at 30 ºC. Daily readings were performed and analyzed: percentage of germination, Germination Speed ​​Index (GSI) and mean germination time (Tm). The results indicate that acids negatively interfere in seed germination when compared to the control group, mainly acetic and propionic acid, since at the end of the experiment only 8% of the seeds germinated when subjected to acetic acid, and 4% to the propionic. In addition, there was also a significant increase in Tm. Thus, water is the best method of obtaining a higher percentage of germination of C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru. Cereus jamacaru DC subsp. jamacaru (mandacaru) es una especie endémica en Brasil perteneciente a Cactaceae de gran importancia ecológica, ya que es pionera en la colonización de ambientes áridos e inhóspitos, y contribuye directamente a la cadena alimentaria por sus frutos muy apreciados por la fauna. Por tanto, este trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar, mediante escarificación química, el comportamiento germinativo de C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru. Las semillas de cactus fueron recolectadas en mayo de 2016 en la ciudad de Quixelô-CE-Brasil. Los ácidos utilizados en la escarificación química fueron ácido acético, ácido clorhídrico, ácido propiónico y ácido sulfúrico durante 5, 10 y 15 minutos. Las semillas se colocaron en placas de Petri y se colocaron para germinar en un B.O.D. con un ciclo de luz/oscuridad de 12 ha 30 ºC. Se realizaron y analizaron lecturas diarias: porcentaje de germinación, índice de velocidad de germinación (IVG) y tiempo promedio de germinación (Tm). Los resultados indican que los ácidos interfieren negativamente en la germinación de las semillas en comparación con el grupo control, principalmente ácido acético y propiónico, ya que al final del experimento solo el 8% de las semillas germinaron al ser sometidas a ácido acético, y el 4% al propiónico. Además, también hubo un aumento significativo en Tm. Así, el agua es el mejor método para obtener un mayor porcentaje de germinación de C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru. Cereus jamacaru DC subsp. jamacaru (mandacaru) é uma espécie endêmica do Brasil pertencente à Cactaceae de grande importância ecológica, por ser pioneira na colonização de ambientes áridos e inóspitos, e contribuir de forma direta na cadeia alimentar por seus frutos extremamente apreciados pela fauna. Sendo assim, este trabalho objetivou avaliar por meio de escarificação química o comportamento germinativo das sementes de C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru. As sementes do cacto foram coletadas em maio de 2016 na cidade de Quixelô-CE-Brasil. Os ácidos utilizados nas escarificações química foram o ácido acético, ácido clorídrico, ácido propiônico e ácido sulfúrico durante 5, 10 e 15 minutos. As sementes foram acondicionadas em placas de Petri, e postas para germinar em câmara do tipo B.O.D. com um ciclo claro/escuro de 12 hrs a 30 ºC. Foram realizadas leituras diárias e analisadas: porcentagem de germinação, Índice de Velocidade de Germinação (IVG) e tempo médio para germinação (Tm). Os resultados apontam que os ácidos interferem de modo negativo na germinabilidade das sementes quando comparados com o grupo controle, principalmente o ácido acético e o propiônico, visto que ao final do experimento apenas 8% das sementes germinaram quando submetidas ao ácido acético, e 4% ao propiônico. Além disso, verificou-se também um aumentou significativo do Tm. Sendo assim, a água é o melhor método de se obter uma maior porcentagem de germinação de sementes de C. jamacaru subsp. jamacaru.

Nematodes of the genus Meloidogyne spp. are one of the tomato culture’s main pathogens. According to their soil infestation level, physiological changes may occur. Consequently, it is extremely important to employ given products to minimize their effect. A feasible option is the salicylic acid, a phytohormone that can induce into resistance due to its ability to increase the production level of some pathogenicity proteins. Therefore, the purpose hereof was to assess the effect of salicylic acid on the physiology of tomato plants subject to different populational densities of Meloidogyne javanica. The design employed was one of randomized blocks, in an incomplete factorial scheme, using the Box Central Compound (BCC) matrix with five nematode populational densities (PD) (0; 5815; 20000; 34184; and 40000 eggs per plant) and five salicylic acid doses (0.0; 0.29; 1.0; 1.71; and 2.0 mM), with four repetitions and two plants per experimental patch. The gas exchanges, fluorescence, and chlorophyll levels were evaluated 45 days after the transplant and soil infestation. The data were submitted for analysis of variance through the F test and, in the significance cases, the polynomial regression analysis was performed. For stomatal conductance, a greater reduction was seen at the PD of 21755 eggs per plant, a fact that might have decreased the liquid assimilation of CO2 and the efficiency of carboxylation. The salicylic acid (SA) affected the CO2 liquid assimilation and the efficiency of carboxylation. The infestation of M. javanica in tomato plants negatively affected the gas exchange and the chlorophyll levels because the SA application did not mitigate the negative effect thereof. Os nematoides do gênero Meloidogyne spp. são um dos principais patógenos na cultura do tomate, podendo causar alterações fisiológicas em função do nível de infestação do solo. O uso de produtos que minimize seus efeitos é de suma importância, nesse sentido, o ácido salicílico pode ser uma alternativa viável, visto que, esse fitormônio pode induzir a resistência devido à capacidade de proporcionar um aumento na produção de algumas proteínas de patogenicidade. Com isso, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do ácido salicílico na fisiologia do tomateiro submetido a diferentes densidades populacionais de Meloidogyne javanica. O delineamento utilizado foi o de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial incompleto, utilizando-se a matriz Composto Central de Box (CCB) com cinco densidades populacionais (DP) de nematoides (0; 5815; 20000; 34184 e 40000 ovos por planta) e cinco doses de ácido salicílico (0,0; 0,29; 1,0; 1,71 e 2,0 mM), com quatro repetições e duas plantas por parcela experimental. Foram avaliadas as trocas gasosas, fluorescências e índices de clorofilas aos 45 dias após o transplantio e infestação do solo. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo teste F e nos casos de significância foi realizada análise de regressão polinomial. Para a condutância estomática, observou-se uma maior redução na DP de 21755 ovos por planta, fato que pode ter ocasionado reduções na assimilação líquida de CO2 e na eficiência de carboxilação. O ácido salicílico (AS) influenciou na assimilação líquida de CO2 e eficiência de carboxilação. A infestação por M. javanica em plantas de tomateiro influenciou negativamente nas trocas gasosas e nos teores de clorofila, sendo que a aplicação do AS não atenuou os efeitos negativos desses patógenos.

Raw milk is a food with great consumption and economic value in Brazil. However, is susceptible of contamination by pathogenic bacteria. The aimed of this study was to evaluate the quality of in natura milk based on microbiological in three dairy farms, somatic cells counting (SCC), bacterial counting and his physical-chemical composition. Were made the following microbiological analysis: counting of mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, coliforms at 30 ºC, coliforms at 45 ºC, Staphylococcus spp., Listeria spp., and SCC. The physical-chemical analysis was fat, protein, lactose, total solids, urea, and casein. There was no evidence of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli were identified in any samples. In accordance to the microbiological standards established by Normative Instruction 76 only coliforms 30 ºC and 45 ºC counts were above the standards. There was a significant difference (p≤0.05) between the three farms studied regarding most microbiological aspects. Also, was observed difference (p≤0.05) for most of physical-chemical aspects. Overall, the milk produced in the regions of Alagoas State fails to meet just a constant criterion in the current legislation. La leche cruda es un alimento de gran consumo y valor económico en Brasil. Sin embargo, es susceptible a la contaminación por bacterias patógenas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la calidad de la leche in natura en base al recuento de células somáticas (CCS), el recuento de bacterias y su composición físico-química. Se realizaron los siguientes análisis microbiológicos: recuento de bacterias mesófilas y psicotróficas, coliformes a 30 ºC, coliformes a 45 ºC, Staphylococcus spp., Listeria spp. y CCS. Los análisis físico-químicos fueron de grasa, proteína, lactosa, sólidos totales, urea y caseína. No se identificaron pruebas de Salmonella spp. y Escherichia coli en ninguna muestra. De acuerdo con las normas microbiológicas establecidas por la Instrucción Normativa Nº 76, sólo los recuentos de coliformes a 30 ºC y 45 ºC estaban por encima de las normas. Hubo una diferencia significativa (p≤0,05) entre las tres granjas estudiadas en cuanto a la mayoría de los aspectos microbiológicos. Además, se observó una diferencia (p≤0,05) en la mayoría de los aspectos físico-químicos. En general, la leche producida en las regiones del estado de Alagoas no puede cumplir con un solo criterio de la legislación vigente. O leite cru é um alimento com grande consumo e valor econômico no Brasil. No entanto, é susceptível de contaminação por bactérias patogênicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade do leite in natura com base em contagem de células somáticas (CCS), contagem bacteriana e sua composição físico-química. Foram feitas as seguintes análises microbiológicas: contagem de bactérias mesofílicas e psicrotróficas, coliformes a 30 ºC, coliformes a 45 ºC, Staphylococcus spp., Listeria spp. e CCS. As análises físico-químicas foram gordura, proteína, lactose, sólidos totais, uréia e caseína. Não houve evidência de Salmonella spp. e Escherichia coli em nenhuma amostra. De acordo com os padrões microbiológicos estabelecidos pela Instrução Normativa nº 76, apenas as contagens de coliformes a 30 ºC e 45 ºC estavam acima dos padrões. Houve uma diferença significativa (p≤0,05) entre as três fazendas estudadas quanto à maioria dos aspectos microbiológicos. Além disso, foi observada diferença (p≤0,05) para a maioria dos aspectos físico-químicos. Em geral, o leite produzido nas regiões do estado de Alagoas não consegue atender apenas a um critério constante da legislação vigente.

The use of no-till conservationist agricultural systems as well as intercropping in the Cerrado biome are practices that increase soil organic matter (SOM) due to the deposition of straw. This study aimed to quantify the carbon stock and organic fractions of a latosol under off-season monoculture (Sorghum bicolor and Urochloa ruziziensis) and intercropping (S. bicolor-U. ruziziensis) systems, in Rio Verde, state of Goiás, Brazil. Soil samples were collected from different layers: 0-10, 10-20 and 20-40 cm. The following variables were determined: organic carbon content, carbon stock, dry matter and fractions of organic matter (labile and mineral). The results showed that the organic fractions of the soil are modified according to the adopted management. Intercropping of S. bicolor and U. ruziziensis increased the carbon stock, with the presence of more labile organic fractions on the soil surface, while the use of U. ruziziensis enhances the production of recalcitrant organic fractions, promoting greater preservation of the soil organic matter.