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Owing to the high prices of agricultural inputs, it is necessary to seek alternatives that minimize costs during the seedling production stage, such as the use of agro-industrial residues to formulate substrates and the application of humic substances to increase the availability of nutrients. This study aimed to evaluate the production of yellow passion fruit seedlings in substrates based on carnauba bagana under increasing doses of humic substances. The design was completely randomized, in a 3 x 4 factorial scheme, referring to three substrates formulated with carnauba bagana (0, 50 and 100 %) plus soil and four doses of humic substances (0, 12.5, 25 and 50 g L-1). The use of carnauba bagana in the substrate increased the leaf area, plant height, stem diameter, root length, root volume, shoot and root dry mass, and improved the seedlings quality. The application of humic substances to the substrate did not stimulate the seedlings development. RESUMO Mediante os elevados preços de insumos agrícolas, é necessário buscar alternativas que minimizem os custos durante a etapa de produção de mudas, como a utilização de resíduos agroindustriais para a formulação de substratos e a aplicação de substâncias húmicas para o aumento da disponibilidade de nutrientes. Objetivou-se avaliar a produção de mudas de maracujazeiro amarelo em substratos à base da bagana de carnaúba sob doses crescentes de substâncias húmicas. O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 4, referente a três substratos formulados à base de bagana de carnaúba (0, 50 e 100 %) acrescidos de solo e quatro doses de substâncias húmicas (0; 12,5; 25; e 50 g L-1). O uso da bagana de carnaúba no substrato trouxe incrementos à área foliar, altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, comprimento radicular, volume radicular, massa seca da parte aérea e do sistema radicular, melhorando a qualidade das mudas. A aplicação de substâncias húmicas ao substrato não estimulou o desenvolvimento das mudas.

The Caatinga biome is one of the largest areas of the South American seasonally dry tropical forest that has been severely affected by unsustainable natural resource use. Furthermore, the biome has been identified as an ecologically sensitive region that is particularly susceptible to climate changes. One of the most economically important native palm tree for traditional communities from the semi-arid Caatinga is the carnauba palm, Copernicia prunifera, which offers diverse natural resources, yet its natural populations suffer intense exploitation. To inform conservation and population management strategies, we sought to determine if remaining natural populations of this species in an intensively exploited area in Northeast Brazil displayed evidence of negative genetic impacts because of exploitation and how this might interact with expected environmental changes. Mantel’s test revealed a positive and significant correlation between geographic and genetic distances, suggesting natural populations are structured by isolation by distance, while also experiencing genetic barriers as identified through Monmonier's algorithm. The studied populations showed evidence of genetic bottlenecks, while future climate scenarios suggest that potentially suitable habitats for C. prunifera within its native range will be reduced. Significant genetic differentiation among populations resulted in three distinct genetic groups which are consistent with ecological niche modelling. In addition to the need for in situ conservation of C. prunifera populations to minimize the loss of important alleles, the creation of germplasm banks for ex situ conservation and strategies for developing planted productive forests are urgently required to maintain natural populations and ensure sustainability resources for traditional communities.

The production of quality seedlings is necessary for the trading of ornamental plants. Seedling quality depends on several factors, among these factors, the substrate is highlighted. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of substrates based on bagana of carnauba, in the production of Ruellia simplex seedlings, by vegetative propagation. A completely randomized design was adopted, with six treatments and four replications. The treatments (substrates) were composed of bagana of carnauba (BC) and soil, in the following proportions: BC0 - 0% BC + 100% of soil; BC20 - 20% BC + 80% of soil; BC40 - 40% BC + 60% of soil; BC60 - 60% BC + 40% of soil; BC80 - 80% BC + 20% of soil; BC100 - 100% BC + 0% of soil. The plot consisted of a plant. After 45 days of cutting, it was evaluated: number of shoots; number of leaves per shoot; diameter of the highest shoot; length of the highest shoot; root length; inflorescence number; number of flowers per inflorescence; leaf area; root volume; aerial part fresh mass; root system fresh mass; aerial part dry mass; and root system dry mass. There was a significant difference for the variables, number of leaves per shoot, diameter and length of the highest shoot, number of flowers per inflorescence, fresh and dry mass of the aerial part. Having a direct relationship between the increase in the proportion of bagana of carnauba volume and the inflorescence number, the substrate 100% of bagana of carnauba is indicated. = A produção de mudas de qualidade é fundamental para a venda de plantas ornamentais. A qualidade das mudas é dependente de diversos fatores, dentre estes fatores, o substrato possui destaque. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de substratos à base de bagana de carnaúba, na produção de mudas de Ruellia simplex, via propagação vegetativa. Adotou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizados, com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os tratamentos (substratos) foram compostos por bagana de carnaúba (BC) e solo, nas seguintes proporções: BC0 – 0% BC + 100% de solo; BC20 - 20% BC + 80% de solo; BC40 - 40% BC + 60% de solo; BC60 - 60% BC + 40% de solo; BC80 - 80% BC + 20% de solo; BC100 - 100% BC+ 0% de solo. A parcela foi composta por uma planta. Após 45 dias da estaquia, avaliou-se: número de brotos e número de folhas por broto; diâmetro do maior broto; comprimento do maior broto e comprimento radicular; número de inflorescência; número de flor por inflorescência; área foliar; volume radicular; massa fresca da parte aérea e da raiz, massa seca da parte aérea e da raiz. Houve diferença significativa para as variáveis número de folhas por broto, diâmetro e comprimento do maior broto, número de flor por inflorescência, massa fresca e massa seca da parte aérea. Há uma relação direta entre o aumento da proporção do volume de bagana de carnaúba e o número de inflorescência, o substrato 100% de bagana de carnaúba é o indicado.

The red palm mite, Raoiella indica Hirst (Tenuipalpidae), has mainly been registered on palm species (Arecaceae), and its expansion in Brazil has the potential to cause significant negative impact on cultivated as well as native palms. Here, we evaluate the potential of native palms from Northeast Brazil to act as hosts of R. indica. Specifically, we used in situ free-choice and confinement tests, in which sections of palm leaves/leaflets of various species were experimentally infested with R. indica. We tested the following species: Acrocomia aculeata, Acrocomia intumescens, Allagoptera caudescens, Attalea funifera, Attalea oleifera, Bactris acanthocarpa var. acanthocarpa, Bactris ferruginea, Bactris glassmanii, Bactris hirta var. spruceana, Bactris pickelii, Copernicia prunifera, Desmoncus orthacanthos, Desmoncus polyacanthos, Syagrus coronata and Syagrus schizophylla. All of these were compared with the mite's preferred host, the coconut palm, Cocos nucifera. In the free-choice test, both male and female R. indica preferred C. nucifera in comparison to each of the native palms. In the confinement test, we observed significant differences in the survivorship between mites on native palms and those on coconut palms after the second day of infestation. By the fifth day, survivorship of mites on the native palms was almost always significantly lower than on C. nucifera (excepting for C. prunifera). We conclude that, among all the native palms evaluated, only the carnauba palm (C. prunifera) is at risk from R. indica. This result is relevant as this palm is an economically important species in the region.

The replacement of bedding in compost dairy barns (CB) comprises a recurrent management practice, but bedding materials are often not readily available in all regions and the choice of alternative materials is necessary. The objective was to evaluate the thermal attributes of carnauba straw (CS) bedding in compost dairy barn facilities. Environmental monitoring operations were performed at a commercial farm located in Northeast Brazil. Mini weather stations were used to evaluate environmental variables. The THI was evaluated as one of the comfort parameters. Analysis of the spatial distribution of bed surface temperature (BST) in the CB was performed using geostatistical techniques. The cows remained out of the comfort zone according to THI results. The BST indicated satisfactory performance and from the thermal point of view can be used as alternative bedding material in CB facilities. However, it was observed that the CS showed fast biomass degradation compared to conventional materials, widely known. In addition, inadequate temperature values (< 45°C) were found in the deeper of the CS bed, signaling higher risks of pathogenic microbial activity. Additional studies are needed for searching the proper management plans that increase the life span of the bed formed by carnauba straw. RESUMO A reposição de cama na instalação Compost Barn (CB) compreende uma prática recorrente de manejo, porém os materiais de cama muitas vezes não estão facilmente disponíveis em todas as regiões, sendo necessária a adoção de materiais alternativos. Objetivou-se avaliar os atributos térmicos da cama à base de bagana de carnaúba (BC) para instalações CB. Foram realizadas operações de monitoramento ambiental em uma fazenda comercial situada no nordeste do Brasil. Miniestações meteorológicas foram utilizadas para avaliação de variáveis ambientais. O ITU foi avaliado como um dos parâmetros de conforto. A distribuição espacial da temperatura superficial da cama (TSC) no galpão foi analisada usando técnicas da geoestatística. As vacas mantiveram-se fora da zona de conforto, conforme resultados do ITU. A TSC indicou desempenho satisfatório e, do ponto de vista térmico, pode ser utilizada como material alternativo para cama em instalações CB. Entretanto, observou-se que a BC apresentou rápida degradação da biomassa em comparação a materiais convencionais, amplamente conhecidos. Além disso, valores inadequados de temperatura (< 45°C) foram encontrados nas camadas profundas da cama de BC, sinalizando maiores riscos de atividade microbiana patogênica. Estudos adicionais tornam-se necessários para a busca de planos de manejo que aumentem o tempo de vida útil da cama formada por bagana de carnaúba.

Dyslipidemia is a chronic non-transmissible condition that has increased due to an unhealthy lifestyle. Statins have been used as the standard treatment to control hyperlipidemia. However, side effects and high costs may be associated with its prolonged treatment, so plants derivatives have been an attractive therapy to overcome these problems. Among the compounds extracted from plants, the p-hydroxycinnamic diesters (HCE), present in carnauba wax (CW), have been found with good pharmacological properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the potential anti-hypercholesterolemic and possible toxicological effects of HCE in C57BL/6J mice under a high-fat (HF) diet. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed during 60 days under the HF diet and therefore were either treated with HCE (200 and 400 mg/kg) or simvastatin (20 mg/kg) or received saline (controls) by gavage for 30 days under the same diet. HCE treatment was able to reduce serum total cholesterol and LDL levels. Besides, this compound increased liver X receptor (LXR) and but not significantly affected IL-1β and TNF-α liver mRNA transcription activity. In conclusion, HCE treatment was found safe and may attenuate the deleterious effects of dyslipidemia due to chronic feeding with western diets.

The carnauba (Copernicia prunifera [Miller] H. E. Moore) is a palm tree that has multiple uses and is of great economic and social importance for extractive families in Northeast Brazil. The objective of this work is to analyze the effect of saline water on the production of different progenies of carnauba. The experiment is arranged in a 5 x 36 factorial scheme in a randomized complete block design, with five replications and five plants per replication. The treatments consist of five levels of irrigation water salinity (with commercial NaCl levels, free of iodine: 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM) and 36 free-pollination progenies. The following characteristics are evaluated: foliar length (H), collecting diameter (DC), survival rate (TS), number of leaves (NF), dry shoot mass (MSPA), dry mass of the root system (MSSR), and dry mass ratio of the root system to the shoot. The results reveal similar behavior among the progenies for the evaluated characteristics. However, significance is observed for the parameters leaf length, collection diameter, and survival rate when the progenies are subjected to salinity above 9.6 dS m-1. Another significant factor is the accumulation of Na+ in the aerial and radicular parts in salinity levels of 7.1, 9.6, and 12.0 dS m-1, with the root system being the most affected site. Thus, the tested progenies exhibit similar behaviors in tolerance to irrigation water salinity. Since the carnauba can produce seedlings in water with electrical conductivity of up to 9.6 dS m-1, this species is characterized as a bioindicator of saline soils and is recommended for planting in degraded areas.

Background: Copernicia prunifera is a species native to the northeastern region of Brazil and is economically important as a source of income for many human populations in the region that carry out intense extractive activity on the species. C. prunifera belongs to the Arecaceae family and its production chain includes a set of economic activities based on the use of the stipe, petiole, fiber, fruits, roots and leaves from which carnauba wax is extracted, an economically valuable resource in the region. Our hypothesis was that people would perceive morphological diversity in carnaúba. In addition, we expected to find a correlation between socioeconomic variables and the number of leaves used. This study aimed to evaluate the uses, management, and perception of the species by local extractors.Methods: Two communities were studied, Bem Quer, where 15 extractors were interviewed, and Cana, where 21 extractors considered specialists were interviewed, totaling a sample of 36 interviewees. Interviewees were asked questions about uses, ways of handling, and perception of morphological variation in the carnauba leaves. The number of leaves extracted and the income obtained from the sale of leaves was estimated from interviews and notes that each leader of extractors held during the year of the research and previous years, as well as direct observations made by researchers in the communities. A regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between social variables (age, time in extractive activity, and income obtained from extraction) with the number of leaves exploited. The relationship between time of extraction and time of residence in the community was also analyzed.Results: The leaf was indicated as the most used part, from which an important powder is extracted for the production of wax. In addition, the leaf was also indicated for fertilization and construction. Uses were also indicated for the stem (construction) and fruit (forage). The relationship between the socioeconomic variables, income from extraction, and the number of leaves extracted (in thousands) was significant (R2 =0.73 and p2= 0.03 and p>0.05), the number of leaves extracted and interviewee age (R2= 0.05 and p>0.05), and number of leaves extracted and extraction time (R2 =0.04 and p>0.05) did not indicate a relationship.Conclusion: C. prunifera is economically and culturally important for the studied communities. It is possible that the economic factor is the preponderant force that directs the management strategies of native species. Thus, human selection and traditional plant management may be the main mechanisms that lead wild plant populations to the incipient domestication process. For this species, however, morphological and genetic studies are needed for further clarification.

A basic characterization of novel epoxy matrix composites incorporated with up to 40 vol% of processed leaf fibers from the Copernicia prunifera palm tree, known as carnauba fibers, was performed. The tensile properties for the composite reinforced with 40 vol% of carnauba fibers showed an increase (40%) in the tensile strength and (69%) for the elastic modulus. All composites presented superior elongation values in comparison to neat epoxy. Izod impact tests complemented by fibers/matrix interfacial strength evaluation by pullout test and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed for the first time a significant reinforcement effect (&gt, 9 times) caused by the carnauba fiber to polymer matrix. Additional thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) showed the onset of thermal degradation for the composites (326 ~ 306 &deg, C), which represents a better thermal stability than the plain carnauba fiber (267 &deg, C) but slightly lower than that of the neat epoxy (342 &deg, C). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) disclosed an endothermic peak at 63 &deg, C for the neat epoxy associated with the glass transition temperature (Tg). DSC endothermic peaks for the composites, between 73 to 103 &deg, C, and for the plain carnauba fibers, 107 &deg, C, are attributed to moisture release. Dynamic mechanical analysis confirms Tg of 64 &deg, C for the neat epoxy and slightly higher composite values (82&ndash, 84 &deg, C) due to the carnauba fiber interference with the epoxy macromolecular chain mobility. Both by its higher impact resistance and thermal behavior, the novel carnauba fibers epoxy composites might be considered a viable substitute for commonly used glass fiber composites.

Diabetes is a chronic non-transmissible disease and the number of cases is increasing every year. Plants appear as an alternative therapy since ancient civilizations. Among the species that have promising pharmacological activities are carnauba (Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore). Carnauba wax powder consists of a mixture of heterogenic compounds, among them, p-hydroxycinnamic diesters (HCA). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic effect of HCA in alloxan-induced diabetic animals. Therefore, this study was performed with 50 female Swiss mice, distributed in 5 groups (n = 10). The animals of the negative and positive control groups were treated with water: healthy and diabetic mice, respectively; animals of the HCA groups 25 and 50 were diabetic animals and they were treated with the HCA solution at doses of 25 and 50 mg / Kg, respectively; and with metformin, standard drug, at the dose of 200 mg / kg. After 28 days of HCA treatment, a significant hypoglycemic effect was observed in animals treated with HCA at the lowest dose tested (25 mg / kg). In the present study, HCA shown to be a promising compound with good scientific applicability due to the reduction of glycemia of diabetic animals induced by alloxan. La diabetes es una enfermedad crónica no transmisible y el número de casos aumenta cada año. Las plantas aparecen como una terapia alternativa desde las civilizaciones antiguas. Entre las especies que tienen actividades farmacológicas prometedoras se encuentran la carnauba (Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore). El polvo de cera de carnauba consiste en una mezcla de compuestos heterogénicos, entre ellos, diésteres p-hidroxicinámicos (HCA). Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el efecto hipoglucémico del HCA en animales diabéticos inducidos por aloxano. Por tanto, este estudio se realizó con 50 ratones suizos hembra, distribuidos en 5 grupos (n = 10). Los animales de los grupos de control negativo y positivo se trataron con agua: ratones sanos y diabéticos, respectivamente; los animales de los grupos 25 y 50 de HCA eran animales diabéticos y se trataron con la solución de HCA a dosis de 25 y 50 mg / kg, respectivamente; y con metformina, fármaco estándar, a la dosis de 200 mg / kg. Después de 28 días de tratamiento con HCA, se observó un efecto hipoglucémico significativo en los animales tratados con HCA a la dosis más baja probada (25 mg / kg). En el presente estudio, el HCA demostró ser un compuesto prometedor con buena aplicabilidad científica debido a la reducción de la glucemia de los animales diabéticos inducida por el aloxano. O diabetes é uma doença crônica não transmissível e o número de casos estão aumentando a cada ano. As plantas aparecem como terapia alternativa desde civilizações antigas. Entre as espécies que apresentam atividades farmacológicas promissoras estão a carnaúba (Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore). A cera de carnaúba em pó consiste em uma mistura de compostos heterogênicos, entre eles os diésteres p-hidroxicinâmicos (HCA). Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito hipoglicemiante do HCA em animais diabéticos induzidos por aloxana. Portanto, este estudo foi realizado com 50 camundongos Swiss fêmeas, distribuídos em 5 grupos (n = 10). Os animais dos grupos controle negativo e positivo foram tratados com água: camundongos saudáveis ​​e diabéticos, respectivamente; os animais dos grupos 25 e 50 HCA eram diabéticos e foram tratados com a solução de HCA nas doses de 25 e 50 mg / Kg, respectivamente; e com metformina, medicamento padrão, na dose de 200 mg / kg. Após 28 dias de tratamento com HCA, um efeito hipoglicêmico significativo foi observado em animais tratados com HCA na dose mais baixa testada (25 mg / kg). No presente estudo, o HCA mostrou-se um composto promissor e com boa aplicabilidade científica devido à redução da glicemia de animais diabéticos induzida por aloxano.

The objective was to evaluate the nutrient metabolism and ingestive behavior of goats fed diets containing fruits of Carnauba and Tucum palm trees, abundant in the Northeast region with fruiting in the dry season and use as alternative food for ruminants. For this end, 21 goats fed three diets, one control and two with carnauba or tucum fruits, in a completely randomized design. We determined nutrient intake through total collection of leftovers, faces and urine, as well as energy and nitrogen balance. Ingestive behavior was assessed by visual observations every 5 min for 24 h. There was a reduction in dry matter intake of 0.183 and 0.223 kg/day for diets containing tucum and carnauba fruits, respectively. The intake of digestible protein (78.04 gDP/day) and metabolizable energy (2.51 McalME/day) of the diet containing tucum fruits met the nutritional requirements of the animals, besides resulting in nitrogen balance above 60% and increase of 0.57 Mcal/kgDM of digestible energy of the diets. Diets containing fruits of carnauba required a longer rumination (453.65 min/day), associated with the higher fiber content in their composition. The inclusion of carnauba and tucum fruits in diets composed of corn, soybean and Tifton 85 hay for growing goats promotes a reduction in dry matter intake due to the low quality of the fiber of these fruits. However, the diets containing tucum fruits met the nutritional requirements of goats regarding digestible protein and metabolizable energy, suggesting the use of this alternative food for this category. RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o metabolismo de nutrientes e comportamento ingestivo de caprinos alimentados com rações contendo frutos das palmeiras Carnaúba e Tucum, abundantes na região Nordeste com frutificação no período seco e utilização como alimento alternativo para ruminantes. Foram utilizados 21 caprinos, alimentados com três rações, uma controle e duas contendo frutos de carnaúba ou tucum, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Determinou-se o consumo dos nutrientes através da coleta total de sobras, fezes e urina, além do balanço energético e nitrogenado. O comportamento ingestivo foi avaliado por observações visuais a cada 5 min, durante 24 h. Houve redução no consumo de matéria seca de 0,183 e 0,223 kg/dia para as rações contendo frutos de tucum e carnaúba, respectivamente. O consumo de proteína digestível (78,04 gPD/dia) e energia metabolizável (2,51 McalEM/dia) da ração contendo frutos de tucum atendeu as exigências nutricionais dos animais, além de resultar em balanço nitrogenado acima de 60% e aumento de 0,57 Mcal/kgMS da energia digestível das rações. As rações contendo frutos de carnaúba demandaram maior tempo em ruminação (453,65 min/dia), associado ao maior teor de fibra em sua composição. A inclusão de frutos de carnaúba e tucum em rações compostas por milho, soja e feno de capim-Tifton 85 para caprinos em crescimento promove redução no consumo de matéria seca, devido à baixa qualidade da fração fibrosa dos frutos. No entanto, as rações contendo frutos de tucum atenderam as exigências nutricionais dos caprinos quanto a proteína digestível e energia metabolizável, sugerindo o uso desse alimento alternativo para essa categoria.

Faced with the role of antioxidants in preventing the genesis of various diseases, the interest of the population and the food industry, research in this field has been intensified. In this context, the fruits of the carnauba palm, rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, stand out, but have a high perishability, which increases their waste in harvest periods. This makes it essential to process them into jelly. Another fruit rich in anthocyanins is the Isabel grape. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of a mixed carnauba and grape jelly, as well as to compare it with fruit jellies made separately. For this, 3 jelly formulations (grape; carnauba; mixed) were produced and the antioxidant activities, FRAP and ABTS, of the extracts produced from these were analyzed. It was observed that the junction of carnauba with grape intensified the ABTS antioxidant activity, while for FRAP there was no difference compared to grape jelly. In view of this, it was found that the use of carnauba with the grape in the manufacture of a jelly is extremely important to achieve greater antioxidant activity and obtain a functional product active in preventing the genesis of several chronic non-communicable diseases. Dado el papel de los antioxidantes en la prevención de la génesis de diversas enfermedades y el interés de la población y la industria alimentaria, la investigación en este campo se ha intensificado. En este contexto, se destacan los frutos del árbol de carnauba, ricos en vitamina C y antocianinas, pero tienen una alta perecebilidad, lo que aumenta su desperdicio durante los períodos de cosecha. Con eso, es esencial procesarlo en forma de mermelada. Otra fruta rica en antocianinas es la uva Isabel. Por lo tanto, el objetivo era evaluar la capacidad antioxidante de una mermelada de carnauba con uva, así como comparar con las jaleas de frutas hechas por separado. Para esto, se produjeron 3 formulaciones de jaleas (uva; carnauba; mixta) y se analizaron las actividades antioxidantes, FRAP y ABTS, de los extractos producidos a partir de ellas. Se observó que la unión de carnauba com la uva intensificó la actividad antioxidante ABTS, mientras que para FRAP no hubo diferencia, en comparación con la jalea de uva. Ante esto, se descubrió que el uso de carnauba con uvas en la fabricación de una mermelada es extremadamente importante para lograr una mayor actividad antioxidante y obtener un producto funcional que actúe en la prevención de la génesis de diversas enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. Diante do papel dos antioxidantes na prevenção da gênese de diversas enfermidades, do interesse da população e da indústria alimentícia, foram intensificadas as pesquisas nesse ramo. Nesse contexto, destacam-se os frutos da carnaubeira, ricos em vitamina C e antocianinas, porém dispõem de elevada perecibilidade, o que eleva o seu desperdício nos períodos de safras. Com isso, torna-se imprescindível o seu processamento em forma de geleia. Outro fruto rico em antocianinas é a uva Isabel. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a capacidade antioxidante de uma geleia mista de carnaúba com uva, bem como comparar com as geleias dos frutos feitas separadamente. Para isso, foram produzidas 3 formulações de geleias (uva; carnaúba; mista) e analisadas as atividades antioxidantes, FRAP e ABTS, dos extratos produzidos a partir dessas. Observou-se que a junção da carnaúba com a uva intensificou a atividade antioxidante ABTS, enquanto para a FRAP não houve diferença, em comparação com a geleia de uva. Diante disso, constatou-se que a utilização da carnaúba com a uva no fábrico de uma geleia é de extrema importância para o alcance de uma maior atividade antioxidante e obtenção de um produto funcional atuante na prevenção da gênese de diversas doenças crônicas não transmissíveis.

The objective was to evaluate the nutrient metabolism and ingestive behavior of goats fed diets containing fruits of Carnauba and Tucum palm trees, abundant in the Northeast region with fruiting in the dry season and use as alternative food for ruminants. For this end, 21 goats fed three diets, one control and two with carnauba or tucum fruits, in a completely randomized design. We determined nutrient intake through total collection of leftovers, faces and urine, as well as energy and nitrogen balance. Ingestive behavior was assessed by visual observations every 5 min for 24 h. There was a reduction in dry matter intake of 0.183 and 0.223 kg/day for diets containing tucum and carnauba fruits, respectively. The intake of digestible protein (78.04 gDP/day) and metabolizable energy (2.51 McalME/day) of the diet containing tucum fruits met the nutritional requirements of the animals, besides resulting in nitrogen balance above 60% and increase of 0.57 Mcal/kgDM of digestible energy of the diets. Diets containing fruits of carnauba required a longer rumination (453.65 min/day), associated with the higher fiber content in their composition. The inclusion of carnauba and tucum fruits in diets composed of corn, soybean and Tifton 85 hay for growing goats promotes a reduction in dry matter intake due to the low quality of the fiber of these fruits. However, the diets containing tucum fruits met the nutritional requirements of goats regarding digestible protein and metabolizable energy, suggesting the use of this alternative food for this category. Made available in DSpace on 2020-06-09T04:05:17Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 NutrientMetabolismIngestiveGoatsRCA2020.pdf: 139376 bytes, checksum: 291fde60a972450ac76cc7cecf55e607 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2020

Olive oil is an important food with interesting functional properties and is widely indicated as a hypolipidemic, oxidative stress reliever and hypolipidemic agent due to its chemical structures and biological functions. The present study analyzed the hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, technological, and sensory potential of 4-methoxycinnamic acid (PCO–C) diester aggregate olive oil, obtained from the wax powder from carnauba (Copernicia prunifera). Zebrafish was used as an experimental obesity model. After developing obesity, with hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, fishes were submitted to extra virgin olive oil aggregated to 4-methoxycinnamic acid diester (PCO–C + AZ) or not, for 4 days. Also, the product PCO–C + AZ was submitted to rheological and sensory analysis. The PCO–C + AZ shown a 43% reduction (p

Chemical composition as well as phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of underutilized plants, such as carnauba palm (Copernicia prunifera), provide an informed decision on how to maximize their benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of the fruit of carnauba. The total phenolic content (gallic acid equivalents, GAE) of the ethanol extract of the whole fruit, pulp and kernel were 44.6000, 0.0447 and 0.6930 mg GAE/g extract, respectively. The respective total tannin content was 1590.932, 2977.724 and 147.650 ppm in the whole fruit, pulp and kernel. The fruit of carnauba showed 9.84 mg anthocyanins/50 g of fresh pulp. Ethanol extract of whole fruit had a potent antioxidant activity. Thus, the fruit of carnauba has add-value in food industry. Key words: Secondary compounds, carnauba ethanol extract.

The present objective of the investigation is to evaluate the antihypercholesterolemic activity of the aqueous fruit pulp extract (APE) ofCopernicia prunifera(Miller) H. E. Moore (Arecaceae family). Various chemical characterization methods like thin layer chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy,1H and13C NMR, and molecular weight by gel permeation chromatography have been employed to characterize the extracted pectin. The present study demonstrated that hypercholesterolemic diet (HD) created hypercholesterolemia, caused significant increases in body weight, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein, and caused decreases in high-density lipoprotein in serum compared with SD group. Two doses (APE 150 and 300 mg/Kg b.w./day) were administered to hyperlipidemic mice for 90 days. APE reversed body weight changes, changed serum lipids to normal values, and significantly inhibited the changes of lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the liver tissues. The renal parameters analyzed (urea and creatinine) altered by diet were reverted to normal values. Our results revealed that aqueous fruit pulp extracts of carnauba reduced hypercholesterolemia showing a potential preventive effect against cardiovascular diseases without side effects cause.

The boa (Boa constrictor) is considered a top predator and its diet includes a wide variety of birds, mammals, and other reptiles, all related directly to their availability in the environment inhabited by the snake. Seven boas were found roadkilled on highways adjacent to conservation units in the semi-arid region of Rio Grande do Norte state, in northeastern Brazil. Their digestive tract was analyzed to identify food items and classify them according to their orientation in the tract. Among the food items found, the white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) and the black-and-white tegu (Salvator merianae) were ingested head-first, while teeth of a punaré (Thrichomys laurentius) and a Spix's yellow-toothed cavy (Galea spixii) and hairs of an unidentified rodent were found in the intestinal tract. In addition, two novel items were identified: the plain-breasted ground-dove (Columbina minuta), which were ingested tail-first, and carnauba palm seeds (Copernicia prunifera). The orientation of the prey (head-first or tail-first) followed what was expected for each type of prey. In addition, the presence of carnauba palm seeds indicates that, while being a top predator, the boa may also be a potential disperser of seeds, which would constitute a previously unrecorded ecological role for this species.

This study aimed to evaluate the performance and ingestive behavior of growing goats grazing on Tanzania guinea grass and fed diets containing 40% carnauba or tucum fruits. Twenty-one male castrated goats were distributed into three groups, one exclusively on pasture and the other two on pasture and fed diet supplemented at the level of 1.5% body weight (BW) in a completely randomized design. The intake of the supplements was obtained by difference between the amount supplied and the leftovers, with weighing performed every seven days, while pasture intake was determined using titanium dioxide (TiO2) as external indicator. Ingestive behavior was evaluated for three days. The supplement containing carnauba fruit resulted in a greater intake of neutral detergent fiber (0.137 kg NDF/day), with a reduction of 8.61% in the pasture dry matter (DM) intake of goats. Associated with the intake of pasture nutrients, the tucum fruit diet met the protein (0.103 kg CP/day) and energetic (0.547 kg TDN/day) requirements of goats with intake set at 0.124 kg CP/day and 0.572 kg TDN/day, with higher weight gain (0.111 kg/day) and larger loin eye area (12.76 cm2). The supplementation with fruits influenced the grazing behavior of goats, increasing the idle time by 1 h in relation to animals not supplemented. The supplementation of growing goats grazing on Tanzania guinea grass pasture with a diet containing 40% tucum fruit, in the proportion of 1.5% BW, did not meet the nutritional requirements for gain of 150 g/day; however, it met requirements for maintenance and average gain of 111 g/day. Energy supplementation reduces the grazing time of goats; thus, it is necessary to consider the level and formulation of supplements, with the possibility of increasing the stocking rate and productivity per unit area.

The aim of this study was to determine the content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity present in three fruit species from the Brazilian Cerrado: carnauba (Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E. Moore), murici (Byrsonima crassifolia L. Rich)and oiti (Licania tomentosa (Benth) Fritsch). Among analyzed fruits, oiti showed the highest total phenolic content (1236.42 ± 34.06 mg GAE 100 g-1) followed by murici (468.90 ± 27.30 mg GAE 100 g-1) and carnauba (314.44 ± 9.50 mg GAE 100 g-1). Regarding the antioxidant activity, murici showed 4350.31 ± 1.85 µmol TEAC.100 g-1 and oiti showed 14721.69 ± 0.85 µmol TEAC.100 g-1. In addition, high content of anthocyanins was verified in carnauba (9.35 ± 0.00 mg-cy-3-glu.100 g-1), as well as carotenoids (20.0 ± 1.23 mg-ß-carot.100 g-1) and vitamin C (58.60 ± 1.32 mg.100 g-1) in murici. In conclusion, data obtained add valuable information to the current knowledge on the nutritional and functional features of fruits from the Brazilian Cerrado that have been scarcely explored, such as those analyzed, which showed high content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Resumo Objetivou-se com o presente estudo determinar o teor de compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante presentes nos frutos de três espécies vegetais do Cerrado Brasileiro: carnaúba (Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E. Moore), murici (Byrsonima crassifolia L. Rich) e oiti (Licania tomentosa (Benth.) Fritsch). Entre os frutos analisados, o fruto oitiapresentou maior conteúdo de fenólicos totais (1236,42 ± 34,06 mg EAG 100 g-1), seguido do murici (468,90 ± 27,30 mg EAG 100 g-1) e do côco da carnaúba (314,44 ± 9,50 mg EAG 100 g-1). Quanto à atividade antioxidante, o murici apresentou 4350,31 ± 1,85 µmol TEAC.100 g-1 e o oiti que apresentou 14721,69 ± 0,85 µmol TEAC.100 g-1. Foi verificado também um elevado conteúdo de antocianinas no côco da carnaúba (9,35 ± 0,00 mg-cy-3-glu.100 g-1) e elevado conteúdo de carotenoides (20,0 ± 1,23 mg-ß-carot.100 g-1) e vitamina C (58,60 ± 1,32 mg.100 g-1) no murici. Os dados obtidos somam informações ao conhecimento atual sobre as características nutricionais e funcionais de frutos do Cerrado Brasileiro ainda pouco explorados, como os analisados, que apresentaram elevado conteúdo de compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante.

This study aimed to evaluate the performance and ingestive behavior of growing goats grazing on Tanzania guinea grass and fed diets containing 40% carnauba or tucum fruits. Twenty-one male castrated goats were distributed into three groups, one exclusively on pasture and the other two on pasture and fed diet supplemented at the level of 1.5% body weight (BW) in a completely randomized design. The intake of the supplements was obtained by difference between the amount supplied and the leftovers, with weighing performed every seven days, while pasture intake was determined using titanium dioxide (TiO2) as external indicator. Ingestive behavior was evaluated for three days. The supplement containing carnauba fruit resulted in a greater intake of neutral detergent fiber (0.137 kg NDF/day), with a reduction of 8.61% in the pasture dry matter (DM) intake of goats. Associated with the intake of pasture nutrients, the tucum fruit diet met the protein (0.103 kg CP/day) and energetic (0.547 kg TDN/day) requirements of goats with intake set at 0.124 kg CP/day and 0.572 kg TDN/day, with higher weight gain (0.111 kg/day) and larger loin eye area (12.76 cm2). The supplementation with fruits influenced the grazing behavior of goats, increasing the idle time by 1 h in relation to animals not supplemented. The supplementation of growing goats grazing on Tanzania guinea grass pasture with a diet containing 40% tucum fruit, in the proportion of 1.5% BW, did not meet the nutritional requirements for gain of 150 g/day; however, it met requirements for maintenance and average gain of 111 g/day. Energy supplementation reduces the grazing time of goats; thus, it is necessary to consider the level and formulation of supplements, with the possibility of increasing the stocking rate and productivity per unit area. Made available in DSpace on 2019-06-05T00:31:57Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 CNPC2019Performance.pdf: 343855 bytes, checksum: cb6042686973e7fe05a76e7c2458b1d9 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2019

A Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore e uma palmeira nativa do Brasil que e alvo do extrativismo anual da sua folha para retirada do po e producao da cera, um produto muito comercializado nacional e internacionalmente. Essa palmeira vem sofrendo com a ameaca da Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer, especie nativa da ilha de Madagascar, Africa. Essa planta, e considerada invasora no semiarido brasileiro, principalmente no bioma Caatinga, devido a sua facilidade de formar densas populacoes. O objetivo desse trabalho e comparar a estrutura fitossociologica de duas areas de Caatinga com atividade extrativista da folha da Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore e com a presenca de Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer. Assim, foram selecionadas duas areas, Area I – atividade extrativista intensiva das folhas da Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore, Area II – nao possui atividade extrativista intensiva. Para analise fitossociologica utilizou-se o metodo de parcelas, e catalogados os individuos com circunferencia a altura do peito maior ou igual a 5 cm e altura maior ou igual a 1 m. Para a avaliacao das comunidades vegetais, foram analisados os parâmetros fitossociologicos convencionais, e os indices de Similaridade, Diversidade, Equabilidade e Impacto Ambiental de Exoticas. Como resultado, foram inventariados 2.567 individuos pertencentes a 21 familias, 28 generos e 39 especies, das quais 21 sao nativas, 17 endemicas, 1 cultivada e 1 naturalizada, percebeu-se tambem que a diversidade na Area I foi menor quando comparada ao Area II. Assim, conclui-se que a presenca da Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer associada a atividade extrativista intensiva reduz numero de generos, especies e familias na Caatinga. Palavras-chave : Extrativismo, Semiarido, Fitodiversidade, Impacto Ambiental de Exoticas. Phytosociology of Two Caatinga Woods Used for Leaf Extraction of Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore and Infested by Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer A B S T R A C T The Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore is a palm tree native to Brazil that is the target of the annual extractivism of its leaf for dust removal and wax production, a product very commercialized nationally and internationally. This palm has been suffering from the threat of Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer, a species native to the island of Madagascar, Africa. This plant is considered invasive in the Brazilian semiarid, mainly in the Caatinga biome, due to its ease of forming dense populations. The objective of this work is to compare the phytosociological structure of two areas of Caatinga with different degrees of extractive activity, leaves of Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore and infestation by Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer in the municipality of Pacatuba - Ceara, Brazil. Thus, two areas were selected, Area I - intensive extractive activity of the leaves of Copernicia prunifera (Mill.) H.E.Moore, Area II - does not have intensive extractive activity. For phytosociological analysis, the plots method was used, and individuals with circumference greater than or equal to 5 cm and height greater than or equal to 1 m were cataloged. For the evaluation of plant communities, conventional phytosociological parameters were analyzed, along with the Similarity, Diversity, Equability and Environmental Impact of Exotics. As a result, 2,567 individuals belonging to 21 families, 28 genera and 39 species were inventoried, of which 21 are native, 17 endemic, 1 cultivated and 1 naturalized, it was also noticed that the diversity in Area I was lower when compared to Area II. Thus, it is concluded that the presence of Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer associated with intensive extractive activity reduces the number of genera, species and families in the Caatinga. Keywords: Extractivism, Semiarid, Phytodiversity, Environmental Impact of Exotics.

This research addresses irrigation strategies for saving water, including the use of irrigation depths of 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150% of the crop evapotranspiration (ETc) and a ground cover of carnauba straw, in evaluating the response of the cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var cerasiforme L) submitted to different levels of water availability in soil with and without ground cover, in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. The physiological components showed higher values under ground cover and when submitted to 100% ETc. The greatest number of total and commercial fruit was obtained when the soil was covered, and irrigated with depths of 75 and 100%. Carnauba straw with irrigation depths of 100 and 125% resulted in the greatest fresh fruit weight. The highest values for fruit diameter and length were achieved in the soil under cover. Maximum productivity, 11,404.20 kg ha-1, was obtained at 107.5%, while for the soil with no ground cover, maximum productivity was 7,778.86 kg ha-1, obtained with an irrigation depth of 140%. Based on the results, soil productivity is possible without a cover of carnauba straw, at an irrigation depth of 50.5%, which can generate savings of 3400 m³ water-cycle-1 ha-1. In addition, water use efficiency in the cherry tomato was 3.06 kg m-3 and 1.95 kg m-3, with and without ground cover respectively. It can be concluded that the use of carnauba straw makes it possible to reduce water consumption in the 'red' cherry tomato under conditions of water scarcity.

Diante do papel dos antioxidantes na prevenção da gênese de diversas enfermidades, do interesse da população e da indústria alimentícia, foram intensificadas as pesquisas nesse ramo. Nesse contexto, destacam-se os frutos da carnaubeira, ricos em vitamina C e antocianinas, porém dispõem de elevada perecibilidade, o que eleva o seu desperdício nos períodos de safras. Com isso, torna-se imprescindível o seu processamento em forma de geleia. Outro fruto rico em antocianinas é a uva Isabel. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a capacidade antioxidante de uma geleia mista de carnaúba com uva, bem como comparar com as geleias dos frutos feitas separadamente. Para isso, foram produzidas 3 formulações de geleias (uva; carnaúba; mista) e analisadas as atividades antioxidantes, FRAP e ABTS, dos extratos produzidos a partir dessas. Observou-se que a junção da carnaúba com a uva intensificou a atividade antioxidante ABTS, enquanto para a FRAP não houve diferença, em comparação com a geleia de uva. Diante disso, constatou-se que a utilização da carnaúba com a uva no fábrico de uma geleia é de extrema importância para o alcance de uma maior atividade antioxidante e obtenção de um produto funcional atuante na prevenção da gênese de diversas doenças crônicas não transmissíveis.

In this study the effect of pretreatments, such as hydrothermal (HT) with hydrogen peroxide-alkaline (HP-A), acid-alkaline (AA), or alkaline (AL) pretreatments, on the Carnauba ( Copernicia prunifera ) straw residue—a plant native to Brazil that is used to produce wax —as well as the use of the pretreated biomass for the production of lignocellulolytic enzymes (cellulases and xylanases) by Trichoderma reesei CCT2768 using solid state fermentation (SSF) were evaluated. The untreated and pretreated biomasses were characterized by using the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy assays. A kinetic study was carried out to estimate the best time for producing cellulases (FPase and CMCase) and xylanases. HP-A pretreatment was the only one that simultaneously reduced hemicellulose (removal of 60.72%), lignin (removal of 50.71%) and pretreatment yield of 59.28%. FPase (0.9 U/g) and CMCase (13 U/g) production in the case of this pretreatment was optimum, while AL pretreatment was ideal for xylanase (99.5 U/g). The use of Carnauba ( Copernicia prunifera ) straw residue coupled with HP-A pretreatment and SSF shows promise for the production of lignocellulolytic enzymes.

The carnauba palm Copernicia prunifera is the third most important non-timber forest species in Brazil; it is mainly known for the production of carnauba wax. We examined intrapopulation genetic diversity and correlated genotypic and phenotypic traits of 28 trees from a coastal location in Rio Grande do Norte state. Phenotypic variables tree height, diameter at breast height, curvature of the stem, fresh mass of fruits and seeds, and length and diameter of fruits and seeds were evaluated. Genotypic parameters were examined based on inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) polymorphisms. The eight ISSR primers detected 79 loci, of which 76% were polymorphic. The polymorphic information content ranged between 0.408 and 0.500, the Nei's diversity index h was 0.327, and Shannon index was 0.470. Although there was no significant association between the matrices of genotypic and phenotypic traits, stepwise multiple regression analysis identified ISSR markers that can be used in a marker-assisted breeding program. The ISSR loci 881(2), 880(1), and M1(4) were significantly and positively associated with plant height. The sMRA also identified a positive association between DBH and 842(5) and a negative association between the curvature of the stem and 857(1). The fresh mass of fruits had a significant negative correlation with ISSR locus 840(1). The other traits showed positive and negative associations when the marker(s) of the previous step(s) were included in the succeeding step in sMRA analyses. These results are relevant for breeding programs, with the perspective of obtaining intra specific hybrids that are superior for desirable characters.