ABSTRACT Monosporascus root rot and vine decline (MRRVD) is an important disease in the melon crop in Brazil. In our research, we evaluated the reaction of 45 melon genotypes to M. cannonballus in two successive cropping seasons in a greenhouse. Melon seedlings were transplanted into naturally infested soil. The evaluation of the genotypes was performed after 55 days, using a score scale to group each genotype into one of five classes and to calculate the disease severity index. None of the genotypes showed an immune reaction to M. cannonballus, regardless of the season. In the first cycle, only 28.9% ('AF 464', 'Auraprince', 'DRG 2278', 'Estoril', 'Guaporé', 'Kousto', 'Mabel', 'Magisto', 'Massaï', 'Nectar', '8530', 'RZ 34130' and 'RZ 34292') had a similar reaction to the high resistance to the MRRVD. Most genotypes (66.7%) behaved as moderately resistant while 4.4% were susceptible and none were highly susceptible. Conversely, in the second cycle, no genotype showed a reaction similar to high resistance while 42.2% behaved as moderately resistant, 48.9% as susceptible, and 8.9% as highly susceptible. The severity levels ranged from 7.5 to 60% and 27.5 to 92.5% for the first and second cycles, respectively. The genotypes 'DRG 2278', 'Estoril', 'Guaporé', 'Kousto', 'Mabel', 'Massaï', 'RZ 34130' and 'RZ 34292' were identified as highly resistant and moderately resistant in the first and second cycles of cultivation, respectively. Therefore, these genotypes are promising sources of resistance to M. cannonballus and should be preferred in commercial fields infested with the pathogen. | RESUMO A Podridão de raízes por Monosporascus e declínio de ramas (PRMDR) é uma importante doença em meloeiro no Brasil. Nesta pesquisa, foi analisada a reação de 45 genótipos de meloeiro a M. cannonballus em dois ciclos de cultivo sucessivos em casa de vegetação. Mudas de meloeiro foram transplantadas em solo naturalmente infestado. A avaliação dos genótipos foi realizada após 55 dias, com o auxílio de escala de notas para agrupamento de cada genótipo em cinco classes e cálculo do índice de severidade da doença. Nenhum dos genótipos apresentou reação de imunidade a M. cannonballus. No primeiro ciclo de cultivo, somente 28,9% (‘AF 464’, ‘Auraprince’, ‘DRG 2278’, ‘Estoril’, ‘Guaporé’, ‘Kousto’, ‘Mabel’, ‘Magisto’, ‘Massaï’, ‘Néctar’, ‘8530’, ‘RZ 34130’ e ‘RZ 34292’) apresentaram reação semelhante à alta resistência a PRMDR. A maioria dos genótipos (66,7%) se comportou como medianamente resistente, enquanto 4,4% como suscetível e nenhum como altamente suscetível. No segundo ciclo de cultivo, nenhum genótipo apresentou reação semelhante à alta resistência, enquanto 42,2% se comportaram como medianamente resistentes, 48,9% como suscetíveis e 8,9% como altamente suscetíveis. Os níveis de severidade variaram entre 7,5 a 60% para o primeiro ciclo de cultivo e entre 27,5 a 92,5% para o segundo ciclo. Os genótipos ‘DRG 2278’, ‘Estoril’, ‘Guaporé’, ‘Kousto’, ‘Mabel’, ‘Massaï’, ‘RZ 34130’ e ‘RZ 34292’ foram identificadas como altamente resistentes e medianamente resistentes, no primeiro e segundo ciclos de cultivo, respectivamente. Estes genótipos constituem fontes promissoras de resistência a M. cannonballus e devem ser preferidos em campos comerciais infestados pelo patógeno.

Monosporascus root rot and vine decline (MRRVD) is an important disease in the melon crop in Brazil. In our research, we evaluated the reaction of 45 melon genotypes to M. cannonballus in two successive cropping seasons in a greenhouse. Melon seedlings were transplanted into naturally infested soil. The evaluation of the genotypes was performed after 55 days, using a score scale to group each genotype into one of five classes and to calculate the disease severity index. None of the genotypes showed an immune reaction to M. cannonballus, regardless of the season. In the first cycle, only 28.9% ('AF 464', 'Auraprince', 'DRG 2278', 'Estoril', 'Guaporé', 'Kousto', 'Mabel', 'Magisto', 'Massaï', 'Nectar', '8530', 'RZ 34130' and 'RZ 34292') had a similar reaction to the high resistance to the MRRVD. Most genotypes (66.7%) behaved as moderately resistant while 4.4% were susceptible and none were highly susceptible. Conversely, in the second cycle, no genotype showed a reaction similar to high resistance while 42.2% behaved as moderately resistant, 48.9% as susceptible, and 8.9% as highly susceptible. The severity levels ranged from 7.5 to 60% and 27.5 to 92.5% for the first and second cycles, respectively. The genotypes 'DRG 2278', 'Estoril', 'Guaporé', 'Kousto', 'Mabel', 'Massaï', 'RZ 34130' and 'RZ 34292' were identified as highly resistant and moderately resistant in the first and second cycles of cultivation, respectively. Therefore, these genotypes are promising sources of resistance to M. cannonballus and should be preferred in commercial fields infested with the pathogen.

Spain contains a third the entire irrigated area of Europe, accounting for 15% of the cultivated area of the country and almost 60% of the national agricultural production. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal variability of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and the probabilistic theory of extreme events is crucial for the elaboration of sustainable irrigation projects. The objective of this work was to define the frequency distribution that best describes ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region of Andalusia. We used ETo data for the period 2001 to 2015 from 56 meteorological stations. The values were accumulated over three consecutive days. For all accumulated periods, nine probability distributions were adjusted. The probability distribution that best described ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region was the Gumbel II distribution. The maximum daily ETo to be considered in irrigation projects in this region is, on average, 10 mm. The accumulated ETo for periods of 5, 10, and 30 days that should be considered are, on average, 42 mm, 78, mm and 224 mm, respectively.

RESUMO A Espanha possui um terço de toda área irrigada da Europa. A área irrigada no país responde por 15% da área cultivada e quase 60% da produção agrícola nacional. O conhecimento da variabilidade espacial e temporal da evapotranspiração de referência (ETo) e da teoria probabilística dos eventos extremos é um ponto essencial para elaboração de projetos sustentáveis de irrigação. O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar a distribuição de frequência que melhor descreve a ETo visando o dimensionamento de sistemas de irrigação da região de Andaluzia, Espanha. Foram utilizados dados de ETo de 56 estações meteorológicas com extensão das séries entre os anos de 2001 a 2015. Estes valores de ETo foram acumulados em três períodos consecutivos de dias. Para todos os períodos acumulados ajustaram-se nove distribuições de probabilidade. A distribuição de probabilidade que melhor descreveu a ETo visando o dimensionamento de sistemas de irrigação da região foi a Gumbel II. A ETo diária máxima a ser considerada em projetos de irrigação na mesma região é de 10 mm, em média. Já as ETo acumuladas em períodos de 5, 10 e 30 dias que devem ser consideradas são, em média, de 42 mm, 78 mm e 224 mm, respectivamente. | ABSTRACT Spain contains a third the entire irrigated area of Europe, accounting for 15% of the cultivated area of the country and almost 60% of the national agricultural production. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal variability of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and the probabilistic theory of extreme events is crucial for the elaboration of sustainable irrigation projects. The objective of this work was to define the frequency distribution that best describes ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region of Andalusia. We used ETo data for the period 2001 to 2015 from 56 meteorological stations. The values were accumulated over three consecutive days. For all accumulated periods, nine probability distributions were adjusted. The probability distribution that best described ETo for the design of irrigation systems in the region was the Gumbel II distribution. The maximum daily ETo to be considered in irrigation projects in this region is, on average, 10 mm. The accumulated ETo for periods of 5, 10, and 30 days that should be considered are, on average, 42 mm, 78, mm and 224 mm, respectively.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different doses of bovine biofertilizer on yield and post harvest of the strawberry crop in different growing environments. The experiment was carried out in two cycles of production, in Fortaleza, Ceará. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, arranged in subdivided plots, where the plots were of three cultivated environments (A1 = protected environment with screens, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A2 = environment with full sun, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A3 = environment with full sun, no cold-water spraying, and grey floor). The subplots consisted of five doses of biofertilizer (D1 = 0,0, D2 = 500, D3 = 750, D4 = 1000 and D5 = 1250 mL plant-1 week -1), with five replications. In the two-year period, the dose was higher in the protected environment of the weed type, with nebulization and on the white floor, at the dose of 500 mL week-1 plant-1 in the first cycle and 325 mL week-1 plant-1 in the second cycle. The dose of bovine biofertilizer of 1250 mL week-1 plant-1 promotes a longer duration and duration of the first cycle. During the second cycle, as the bovine biofertilizer doses of 585 and 620 provide higher and lower output than the protected environment. The environment without nebulization and on the floor without painting, the best soluble practices (Brix) in relation to the protected environment of the type screened and a full sun with nebulization.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different doses of bovine biofertilizer on yield and post harvest of the strawberry crop in different growing environments. The experiment was carried out in two cycles of production, in Fortaleza, Ceará. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, arranged in subdivided plots, where the plots were of three cultivated environments (A1 = protected environment with screens, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A2 = environment with full sun, cold-water spraying, and white floor; A3 = environment with full sun, no cold-water spraying, and grey floor). The subplots consisted of five doses of biofertilizer (D1 = 0,0, D2 = 500, D3 = 750, D4 = 1000 and D5 = 1250 mL plant-1 week -1), with five replications. In the two-year period, the dose was higher in the protected environment of the weed type, with nebulization and on the white floor, at the dose of 500 mL week-1 plant-1 in the first cycle and 325 mL week-1 plant-1 in the second cycle. The dose of bovine biofertilizer of 1250 mL week-1 plant-1 promotes a longer duration and duration of the first cycle. During the second cycle, as the bovine biofertilizer doses of 585 and 620 provide higher and lower output than the protected environment. The environment without nebulization and on the floor without painting, the best soluble practices (Brix) in relation to the protected environment of the type screened and a full sun with nebulization. | RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses de biofertilizante bovino na produtividade e na pós-colheita da cultura do morango em diferentes ambientes de cultivo. O experimento foi desenvolvido, em dois ciclos de produção, em Fortaleza, Ceará. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, arranjados em parcelas subdivididas, onde as parcelas foram três ambientes de cultivo (A1= ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização com água gelada (temperatura variando entre 18 e 20 °C) e sobre piso branco, A2 = a pleno sol, com nebulização com água gelada e sobre piso branco, A3 = a pleno sol sem nebulização e sobre piso concretado sem pintura) e as subparcelas, cinco doses de biofertilizante (D1=0,0; D2=500; D3= 750; D4=1000; e D5= 1250 mL planta-1. semana-1), com cinco repetições. Nos dois anos, a produtividade foi maior no ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização e sobre piso branco, na dose de 500 mL semana-1 planta-1 no primeiro ciclo e 325 mL semana-1 planta-1 no segundo ciclo. A dose de biofertilizante bovino de 1250 mL semana-1 planta-1 promovem melhor diâmetro e comprimento do fruto dutante o primeiro ciclo. Durante o segundo ciclo, as doses de biofertilizante bovino de 585 e 620 proporcionam maior comprimento e diâmetro do fruto, respectivamente, no ambiente protegido do tipo telado, com nebulização e sobre piso branco. O ambiente a pleno sol sem nebulização e sobre piso sem pintura, apresentou melhores sólidos solúveis (°Brix) em relação ao ambiente protegido do tipo telado e a pleno sol com nebulização.

Salinity is prejudicial to plant development, causing different types of damage to species, or even between genotypes of the same species, with the effects being aggravated when combined with other types of stress, such as heat stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the tolerance of cowpea genotypes (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) to salt stress at different temperatures. Seeds of the Pujante, Epace 10 and Marataoã genotypes were placed on paper rolls (Germitest®) moistened with different salt concentrations of 0.0 (control), 1.5, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 dS m-1, and placed in a germination chamber (BOD) at temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35°C. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design, in a 3 × 4 × 5 scheme of subdivided plots, with four replications per treatment. The variables under analysis were germination percentage, first germination count, shoot and root length, and total seedling dry weight. At temperatures of 30 and 35°C, increases in the salt concentration were more damaging to germination in the Epace 10 and Pujante genotypes, while for the Marataoã genotype, damage occurred at the temperature of 20°C. At 25°C, germination and vigour in the genotypes were higher, with the Pujante genotype proving to be more tolerant to salt stress, whereas Epace 10 and Marataoã were more tolerant to high temperatures. Germination in the cowpea genotypes was more sensitive to salt stress when subjected to heat stress caused by the low temperature of 20°C or high temperature of 35°C.

RESUMO A salinidade é prejudicial ao desenvolvimento vegetal, causando diferentes danos às espécies, ou até mesmo entre genótipos da mesma espécie, com os efeitos sendo agravados quando combinado a outro estresse, como o térmico. Objetivou-se avaliar a tolerância ao estresse salino de genótipos de feijão-caupi (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) em diferentes temperaturas. As sementes dos genótipos Pujante, Epace 10 e Marataoã foram semeadas em rolos de papel (Germitest®), umedecidos com diferentes concentrações salinas de 0,0 (controle); 1,5; 3,0, 4,5 e 6,0 dS m-1, acondicionados em câmara de germinação (B.O.D.) nas temperaturas de 20, 25, 30 e 35 ºC. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em parcela subdividida no esquema de 3×4×5, com quatro repetições por tratamento. As variáveis analisadas foram porcentagem de germinação, primeira contagem de germinação, comprimento da parte aérea e da raiz e massa seca total da plântula. Nas condições de temperaturas de 30 e 35 °C, o aumento da concentração salina foi mais prejudicial à germinação dos genótipos Epace 10 e Pujante, enquanto para o Marataoã isto ocorreu na temperatura de 20 °C. Na temperatura de 25 °C a germinação e o vigor dos genótipos foram maiores, sendo que, o genótipo Pujante mostrou-se mais tolerante ao estresse salino, enquanto Epace 10 e Marataoã a temperaturas elevadas. A germinação dos genótipos de feijão-caupi foi mais sensível ao estresse salino quando submetidas ao estresse térmico, causado por temperatura baixa de 20 °C ou elevada de 35 °C. | ABSTRACT Salinity is prejudicial to plant development, causing different types of damage to species, or even between genotypes of the same species, with the effects being aggravated when combined with other types of stress, such as heat stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the tolerance of cowpea genotypes (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) to salt stress at different temperatures. Seeds of the Pujante, Epace 10 and Marataoã genotypes were placed on paper rolls (Germitest®) moistened with different salt concentrations of 0.0 (control), 1.5, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 dS m-1, and placed in a germination chamber (BOD) at temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35°C. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design, in a 3 × 4 × 5 scheme of subdivided plots, with four replications per treatment. The variables under analysis were germination percentage, first germination count, shoot and root length, and total seedling dry weight. At temperatures of 30 and 35°C, increases in the salt concentration were more damaging to germination in the Epace 10 and Pujante genotypes, while for the Marataoã genotype, damage occurred at the temperature of 20°C. At 25°C, germination and vigour in the genotypes were higher, with the Pujante genotype proving to be more tolerant to salt stress, whereas Epace 10 and Marataoã were more tolerant to high temperatures. Germination in the cowpea genotypes was more sensitive to salt stress when subjected to heat stress caused by the low temperature of 20°C or high temperature of 35°C.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of swine wastewater (SW), and its effect on the chemical attributes of soil and plants in a long-term experiment. The area was designed for an 8-year hay production, using Tifton 85 grass (Cynodon spp.), with an average annual application of 360 m3 ha-1, divided into 6 applications. Also, soil chemical composition was evaluated at 0.0-0.20 and 0.20-0.40 m of depth, and the chemical composition of plant and vegetable materials on the ground were evaluated for two months (November and June). Concentrations of N, Ca, and Cu in SW did not decrease from the affluent to the storage lagoon. It was observed that the content of Cu, Zn, and Mn was classified as in excess in soil that could be a consequence of high levels of these micronutrients utilized in rations of swine in the SW supplier farm, mainly in the rations of piglets combined with a low extraction of these nutrients by plants. In relation to micronutrients and P (46.08 mg dm-3) in the soil, these should be evaluated in greater depth than performed in the present study, because the concentrations did not vary considerably among depths and were high. The concentrations of Cu and Zn were high in shoot plants with an average of 133.0 and 139.30 mg kg-1, respectively. The continuous use of SW should be monitored continuously through analyses of soil and waste, and alternatives must be researched to reduce the concentration of micronutrients and P in SW.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química da água residuária da suinocultura (ARS) e efeito nos atributos químicos do solo e planta em um experimento de longa duração. A área destina-se a 8 anos a produção de feno de capim Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.), com aplicação média anual de 360 m3 ha-1 dividida em 6 aplicações. Também se avaliou a composição química do solo em duas profundidades 0,0-0,20 e 0,20-0,40 m de profundidade e a composição química da planta e material vegetal sobre o solo, avaliada em duas épocas do ano (novembro e junho). As concentrações de nitrogênio, cálcio e cobre da ARS não reduziram do afluente até a lagoa de armazenamento. Ressalta-se que os teores de Cu, Zn e Mn foram classificados como em excesso no solo, que pode ser consequência dos elevados níveis destes nutrientes na ração dos suínos na granja fornecedora da ARS, principalmente na ração de leitões aliado a baixa extração destes nutrientes pelas plantas. Com relação aos micronutrientes e o fósforo (46,08 mg dm-3) no solo estes deverão ser avaliados em profundidades maiores, superiores ao presente estudo em função das concentrações não variarem muito entre profundidades e se mostrarem elevadas. As concentrações de cobre e zinco foram elevadas na parte aérea das plantas com médias de 133,0 e 139,30 mg kg-1, respectivamente. O uso contínuo de ARS deverá ter monitoramento contínuo através de análises de solo e do dejeto e alternativas devem ser buscadas no sentido de reduzir a concentração de micronutrientes e fósforo na ARS. | ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of swine wastewater (SW), and its effect on the chemical attributes of soil and plants in a long-term experiment. The area was designed for an 8-year hay production, using Tifton 85 grass (Cynodon spp.), with an average annual application of 360 m3 ha-1, divided into 6 applications. Also, soil chemical composition was evaluated at 0.0-0.20 and 0.20-0.40 m of depth, and the chemical composition of plant and vegetable materials on the ground were evaluated for two months (November and June). Concentrations of N, Ca, and Cu in SW did not decrease from the affluent to the storage lagoon. It was observed that the content of Cu, Zn, and Mn was classified as in excess in soil that could be a consequence of high levels of these micronutrients utilized in rations of swine in the SW supplier farm, mainly in the rations of piglets combined with a low extraction of these nutrients by plants. In relation to micronutrients and P (46.08 mg dm-3) in the soil, these should be evaluated in greater depth than performed in the present study, because the concentrations did not vary considerably among depths and were high. The concentrations of Cu and Zn were high in shoot plants with an average of 133.0 and 139.30 mg kg-1, respectively. The continuous use of SW should be monitored continuously through analyses of soil and waste, and alternatives must be researched to reduce the concentration of micronutrients and P in SW.

The number of studies on plant compounds with insecticidal activity has increased in recent years, and one of the primary targets of these compounds is leaf-cutter ants, which are considered the most important pests in Brazilian plantations, especially ants of the genus Atta. The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxic activity of the crude extract and fractions of the leaves of Esenbeckia pumila Pohl (Rutaceae) on Artemia salina and Atta sexdens rubropilosa and to perform a phytochemical study of this plant species. The toxicity of the extract and fractions was evaluated by determining the mean lethal concentration (LC50) on A. salina. The insecticidal activity was evaluated by feeding the ants an artificial diet containing the crude extract or fractions, and the results were analyzed using the log-rank test. The substances were isolated by chromatography, and the molecular structure was determined by spectroscopy. In the bioassay with A. salina, the ethanol extract and dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions were highly toxic. The analysis of survival curves indicated that the mortality rate of A. sexdens rubropilosa workers fed different fractions was higher than that of ants fed the control diet, especially the ethyl acetate fraction, with a mean survival time of 3 days and cumulative mortality of 100% on day 21 (p<0.05). The phytochemical study of this plant species allowed isolating the flavonoid rutin and a mixture of the triterpenes α-amyrin, β-amyrin, and lupeol. These results suggest the insecticidal potential of E. pumila on Atta sexdens rubropilosa.

ABSTRACT The number of studies on plant compounds with insecticidal activity has increased in recent years, and one of the primary targets of these compounds is leaf-cutter ants, which are considered the most important pests in Brazilian plantations, especially ants of the genus Atta. The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxic activity of the crude extract and fractions of the leaves of Esenbeckia pumila Pohl (Rutaceae) on Artemia salina and Atta sexdens rubropilosa and to perform a phytochemical study of this plant species. The toxicity of the extract and fractions was evaluated by determining the mean lethal concentration (LC50) on A. salina. The insecticidal activity was evaluated by feeding the ants an artificial diet containing the crude extract or fractions, and the results were analyzed using the log-rank test. The substances were isolated by chromatography, and the molecular structure was determined by spectroscopy. In the bioassay with A. salina, the ethanol extract and dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions were highly toxic. The analysis of survival curves indicated that the mortality rate of A. sexdens rubropilosa workers fed different fractions was higher than that of ants fed the control diet, especially the ethyl acetate fraction, with a mean survival time of 3 days and cumulative mortality of 100% on day 21 (p<0.05). The phytochemical study of this plant species allowed isolating the flavonoid rutin and a mixture of the triterpenes α-amyrin, β-amyrin, and lupeol. These results suggest the insecticidal potential of E. pumila on Atta sexdens rubropilosa. | RESUMO A avaliação de moléculas com atividade inseticida provenientes de plantas que apresentam atividade tóxica ou repelente cresceu nos últimos anos, tendo como um dos principais alvos de estudo as formigas cortadeiras, consideradas as principais pragas das plantações brasileiras, especialmente do gênero Atta. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial tóxico e inseticida do extrato bruto e frações das folhas de Esenbeckia pumila Pohl (Rutaceae) sobre Artemia salina e Atta sexdens rubropilosa e realizar o estudo fitoquímico daquela espécie. A avaliação da toxicidade do extrato e das frações foi realizada em bioensaio com A. salina determinando-se CL50 (Concentração Letal Média). A atividade inseticida foi avaliada pela ingestão do extrato e das frações incorporados a dieta artificial e os resultados foram tratados estatisticamente através do teste log rank. O isolamento de substâncias foi realizado por métodos cromatográficos e as estruturas determinadas pela análise de dados espectroscópicos. No bioensaio contra A. salina, o extrato etanólico e as frações diclorometânica e acetato-etílica se mostraram altamente tóxicas. A análise estatística das curvas de sobrevivência revelou taxas de mortalidade significativas de operárias de A. sexdens rubropilosa quando comparadas à dieta controle, com destaque para a fração acetato-etílica que apresentou sobrevivência mediana (Md) no 3o dia e mortalidade de 100% no 21o dia (p < 0,05). O estudo fitoquímico da espécie levou ao isolamento do flavanoide rutina e de uma mistura dos triterpenos α-amirina, β-amirina e lupeol. Esses resultados sugerem o potencial inseticida de E. pumila sobre Atta sexdens rubropilosa.

The objective of this study was to determine the optimum age at last weighing and compare the goodness of fit of nonlinear models used to fit longitudinal weight-age data to describe the growth pattern of Anglo-Nubian does. Weights of 104 animals from birth to 60 months of age were grouped into 10 age groups at six-month intervals. In each age group, parameters A (asymptotic weight), B (integration constant), and K (maturity index) were estimated using the Brody, Gompertz, logistic, and von Bertalanffy models. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance in a factorial design (10 age groups × 4 nonlinear models). The age group × model interaction was not significant. Mean estimates of A, B, and K were significantly different between age groups up to 30 months (p < 0.05), indicating that the estimated curve is affected by weights taken before this age independent of the model. The values of mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute deviation (MAD), coefficient of determination (R2) and Rate of convergence (RC) at each age group up to 30 months were compared to determine the goodness of fit of nonlinear models. The ranking of fit was logistic, Brody, von Bertalanffy, and Gompertz. The logistic and Brody models respectively estimated the smallest and largest asymptotic weight. Longitudinal weight records taken until 30 months of age are most appropriate for estimating the growth of Anglo-Nubian does using nonlinear models.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the optimum age at last weighing and compare the goodness of fit of nonlinear models used to fit longitudinal weight-age data to describe the growth pattern of Anglo-Nubian does. Weights of 104 animals from birth to 60 months of age were grouped into 10 age groups at six-month intervals. In each age group, parameters A (asymptotic weight), B (integration constant), and K (maturity index) were estimated using the Brody, Gompertz, logistic, and von Bertalanffy models. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance in a factorial design (10 age groups × 4 nonlinear models). The age group × model interaction was not significant. Mean estimates of A, B, and K were significantly different between age groups up to 30 months (p < 0.05), indicating that the estimated curve is affected by weights taken before this age independent of the model. The values of mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute deviation (MAD), coefficient of determination (R2) and Rate of convergence (RC) at each age group up to 30 months were compared to determine the goodness of fit of nonlinear models. The ranking of fit was logistic, Brody, von Bertalanffy, and Gompertz. The logistic and Brody models respectively estimated the smallest and largest asymptotic weight. Longitudinal weight records taken until 30 months of age are most appropriate for estimating the growth of Anglo-Nubian does using nonlinear models. | RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar a idade da pesagem e a qualidade do ajuste de modelos não lineares a dados longitudinais para descrever o padrão de crescimento de fêmeas Anglonubiana. Pesos de 104 animais do nascimento até 60 meses de idade, foram agrupados em 10 classes, com intervalos de seis meses. Em cada classe estimou-se parâmetros A, B e K com modelos Brody, Gompertz, Logístico e Von Bertalanffy. Realizou-se análise de variância com fatorial (10 classes x 4 modelos) com 104 repetições, considerando-se os três parâmetros como características. Baseou-se na significância da média dos parâmetros nas classes para identificar a melhor idade de pesagem. Não ocorreu interação "classe-modelos". As médias dos três parâmetros nas classes com pesos registrados até 30 meses diferiram entre si (P<0,05), indicando influência de pesagens inferior a essa idade na curva estimada, independente do modelo. Para identificar modelos com melhor ajuste aos dados, utilizou-se os valores do QMR, DMA, R2 e RC que cada um apresentou na classe com pesagens até 30 meses. Constatou-se como sequência de melhor ajuste: Logístico, Brody, Von Bertalanffy e Gompertz. O modelo Logístico estima menor peso assintótico e Brody o maior. Pesagens até 30 meses de idade se adequam à análise do padrão de crescimento de cabras com modelos não lineares.

Brave bean (Capparis flexuosa L.) is a Caatinga species that is used as forage, mainly during the dry season when some plant species lose their leaves. The aim of this study was to assess genetic diversity within and among brave bean populations using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Brave bean leaves were collected from 30 accessions in the following municipalities of Paraíba state, Brazil: Barra de Santa Rosa (BSR), Cuité (C), São João do Cariri (SJC), Damião (D), Baraúna (B), and Picuí (P). DNA extraction followed the standard methodology of CTAB with modifications. RAPD analyses were carried out using 18 primers, and polymorphism of the amplified DNA fragments was visualized using agarose gel electrophoresis. Data were used to calculate Jaccard Similarity Coefficient values, which were then used to group samples with the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean. Cophenetic Correlation Coefficient, Stress, and Distortion Coefficient values were also calculated from these analyses. Band polymorphism was generated with 14 primers, but the sampled populations showed low numbers of polymorphic loci (27 in BSR, 18 in C, 7 in SJC, 9 in D, and 0 in B and P). The highest polymorphic information content was found in samples from the BSR (9 groups), C (22 groups), SJC (7 groups), and D (6 groups) municipalities. In the interpopulation analysis, 34 groups were formed, the matrices of which showed high cophenetic correlations (0.95 to 0.98), but low stress (12.9 to 17.45%) and distortion (3.05%). Therefore, results showed that there was genetic variability both among and within brave bean populations.

RESUMO O feijão-bravo (Capparis flexuosa) é uma espécie nativa da Caatinga e é utilizada como forrageira, principalmente na estação seca onde parte das espécies vegetais perdem suas folhas. Objetivou-se estudar a diversidade genética dentro e entre populações de feijão-bravo usando marcadores RAPD. O estudo foi realizado no Laboratório de Biotecnologia Vegetal do CCA/UFPB. Foram coletadas folhas de 30 acessos de feijão-bravo/população nos seguintes municípios do estado da Paraíba: Barra de Santa Rosa (BSR), Cuité (C), São João do Cariri (SJC), Damião (D), Baraúna (B) e Picuí (P). A extração de DNA seguiu a metodologia de utilização do CTAB com modificações. Análises de RAPD foram realizadas usando 18 primers e o polimorfismo de fragmentos de DNA amplificados foi visualizado em gel de agarose após eletroforese. Os dados foram submetidos ao Coeficiente de Similaridade Jaccard, agrupados seguindo a UPGMA e calculou-se o Coeficiente de Correlação Cofenética, Estresse e Distorção. 14 primers geraram polimorfismo de banda, no entanto, as populações apresentaram baixo número de locos polimórficos (27 em BSR, 18 em C, 7 em SJC, 9 em D, 0 em B e P) sendo o maior conteúdo de informação polimórfica foi encontrado nos municípios de BSR (9 grupos), C (22 grupos), São João do Cariri (7 grupos) e D (6 grupos). Formou-se 34 grupos na análise interpopulacional. As matrizes formadas apresentaram altos índices de correlação cofenética (0,95 a 0,98), baixo estresse (12,9 a 17,45%) e distorção (3,05%). Portanto, há variabilidade genética entre e dentro de populações de feijão-bravo. | ABSTRACT Brave bean (Capparis flexuosa L.) is a Caatinga species that is used as forage, mainly during the dry season when some plant species lose their leaves. The aim of this study was to assess genetic diversity within and among brave bean populations using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Brave bean leaves were collected from 30 accessions in the following municipalities of Paraíba state, Brazil: Barra de Santa Rosa (BSR), Cuité (C), São João do Cariri (SJC), Damião (D), Baraúna (B), and Picuí (P). DNA extraction followed the standard methodology of CTAB with modifications. RAPD analyses were carried out using 18 primers, and polymorphism of the amplified DNA fragments was visualized using agarose gel electrophoresis. Data were used to calculate Jaccard Similarity Coefficient values, which were then used to group samples with the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean. Cophenetic Correlation Coefficient, Stress, and Distortion Coefficient values were also calculated from these analyses. Band polymorphism was generated with 14 primers, but the sampled populations showed low numbers of polymorphic loci (27 in BSR, 18 in C, 7 in SJC, 9 in D, and 0 in B and P). The highest polymorphic information content was found in samples from the BSR (9 groups), C (22 groups), SJC (7 groups), and D (6 groups) municipalities. In the interpopulation analysis, 34 groups were formed, the matrices of which showed high cophenetic correlations (0.95 to 0.98), but low stress (12.9 to 17.45%) and distortion (3.05%). Therefore, results showed that there was genetic variability both among and within brave bean populations.

The presence of microorganisms, especially during storage, can lead to the rapid deterioration of macauba fruits (Acrocomia aculeata) and reduce the quality of extracted oil for biodiesel production. An alternative to ensure the quality of the oil is the use of ozone gas, a oxidizing agent that has high antimicrobial and sanitizing power. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of high concentrations of ozone gas on macaúba fruit and its effect on the quality of the oil throughout storage for the production of biodiesel. Ozonation was performed 20 days after harvest using fruits with and without the epicarp. Ozone was applied at a concentration of 18.0 mg L-1 and a flow of 1.5 L min-1 for 10 h. After ozonation, the fruits were stored for different periods, and the physical-chemical parameters of the oil were evaluated. The ozonation of fruits without the epicarp visually reduced microorganism attack. In general, the ozonation process of macauba fruits maintained the visual characteristics of the fruits and the physical-chemical characteristics of the oil for biodiesel production compared to untreated fruits. The average acidity values of the oil were lower in the treatments with the ozone gas. Removal of the epicarp tends to facilitate the ozonation process, potentially by improving gas penetration into the fruit.

RESUMO A presença de micro-organismo, especialmente durante o armazenamento, pode levar à deterioração rápida dos frutos de macaúba (Acrocomia aculeata) e reduzir a qualidade do óleo extraído para a produção de biodiesel. Uma alternativa para garantir a qualidade do óleo é o uso de gás ozônio, um poderoso agente oxidante que possui alto poder antimicrobiano e sanitizante. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência do ozônio gasoso em alta concentração (18,0 mg L-1) em frutos de macaúba (com e sem epicarpo) e seu efeito sobre a qualidade do óleo durante todo o armazenamento para a produção de biodiesel. A ozonização foi realizada 20 dias após a colheita, utilizando frutas com e sem epicarpo. O ozônio foi aplicado na concentração de 18,0 mg L-1 e fluxo de 1,5 L min-1 durante 10 h. Após a ozonização, os frutos foram armazenados por diferentes períodos e foram avaliados os parâmetros físico-químicos do óleo. A ozonização de frutos sem epicarpo reduziu visualmente o ataque de micro-organismos. Em geral, o processo de ozonização de frutos de macauba manteve as características visuais dos frutos e físico-químicas do óleo para produção de biodiesel em relação ao controle não tratado. Os valores médios de acidez do óleo foram menores nos tratamentos com o gás ozônio. A remoção do epicarpo tende a facilitar o processo de ozonização, já que a retirada pode facilitar a penetração do gás no fruto. | ABSTRACT The presence of microorganisms, especially during storage, can lead to the rapid deterioration of macauba fruits (Acrocomia aculeata) and reduce the quality of extracted oil for biodiesel production. An alternative to ensure the quality of the oil is the use of ozone gas, a oxidizing agent that has high antimicrobial and sanitizing power. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of high concentrations of ozone gas on macaúba fruit and its effect on the quality of the oil throughout storage for the production of biodiesel. Ozonation was performed 20 days after harvest using fruits with and without the epicarp. Ozone was applied at a concentration of 18.0 mg L-1 and a flow of 1.5 L min-1 for 10 h. After ozonation, the fruits were stored for different periods, and the physical-chemical parameters of the oil were evaluated. The ozonation of fruits without the epicarp visually reduced microorganism attack. In general, the ozonation process of macauba fruits maintained the visual characteristics of the fruits and the physical-chemical characteristics of the oil for biodiesel production compared to untreated fruits. The average acidity values of the oil were lower in the treatments with the ozone gas. Removal of the epicarp tends to facilitate the ozonation process, potentially by improving gas penetration into the fruit.