Abstract We evaluated the phenology and reproductive phenological diversity of three sympatric species of Miconia in a gallery forest in the Chapada Diamantina mountains, Bahia, Brazil. The reproductive phenophases (bud, flower, immature fruit, and mature fruit) of M. alborufescens (N=38), M. holosericea (N=46), and M. prasina (N=44) were evaluated monthly, between June/2008 and June/2015. The Fournier index was used to assess the intensities of the reproductive phenophases; synchrony and seasonality were analyzed using circular statistics and the Rayleigh (Z) test. The Frideman and Wilcoxon tests were used to verify interannual variations in phenological patterns. Reproductive phenological diversity was measured by calculating the Shannon-Wiener index; ANOVA tested possible differences in the means of diversity among the different years. The reproductive phenophases of the studied Miconia species occurred sequentially (M. alborufescens, then M. holoserica, followed by M. prasina), in the transition between the dry and rainy seasons, with little overlap between them. In general, the species showed seasonal and synchronic phenological patterns, with some variations that coincided with El Niño and/or La Niña events, e.g., demonstrating changes in the periodicity, synchrony, and intensity of their phenophases. The intensity of fruiting, for example, showed increases during La Niña years. Reproductive phenological diversity appears to respond to climate changes resulting from El Niño events and periods of prolonged drought, with high Shannon-Wiener index values. The results also suggest that the effects of global climatic phenomena (El Niño and La Niña) that alter regional climatic seasonality can also cause variations in the reproductive phenological rhythms of the Miconia species studied.

Resumo Neste estudo, avaliamos a fenologia e a diversidade fenológica reprodutiva de três espécies simpátricas de Miconia em uma floresta de galeria da Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brasil. As fenofases reprodutivas (botão, flor, fruto imaturo e fruto maduro) de M. alborufescens (N=38), M. holosericea (N=46) e M. prasina (N=44) foram avaliadas mensalmente, entre junho de 2008 e junho de 2015. O índice de Fournier foi utilizado para avaliar a intensidade das fenofases reprodutivas; a sincronia e a sazonalidade foram analisadas por meio de estatística circular e do teste de Rayleigh (Z). Os testes de Frideman e Wilcoxon foram empregados na verificação de variações interanuais dos padrões fenológicos. A diversidade fenológica reprodutiva foi mensurada pelo cálculo do índice de Shannon-Wiener; a ANOVA testou possíveis diferenças nas médias de diversidade entre os diferentes anos. As fenofases reprodutivas das espécies de Miconia estudadas ocorreram de forma sequencial (M. alborufescens, M. holoserica e M. prasina, respectivamente), na transição entre as estações seca e chuvosa, com pouca sobreposição entre as espécies. No geral, as espécies apresentaram padrões fenológicos sazonais e sincrônicos, com algumas variações que coincidiram com eventos de El Niño e/ou La Niña, e.g., demonstrando mudanças na periodicidade, sincronia e intensidade de suas fenofases. A intensidade da frutificação, por exemplo, apresentou aumento nos anos de ocorrência de La Niña. A diversidade fenológica reprodutiva parece responder às alterações climáticas decorrentes dos eventos de El Niño e a períodos de seca prolongada, com valores elevados do índice de Shannon-Wiener. Os resultados sugerem, ainda, que os efeitos de fenômenos climáticos globais (El Niño e La Niña), que alteram a sazonalidade climática regional, também podem causar variações nos ritmos fenológicos reprodutivos das espécies de Miconia estudadas.

Resumo Cheirodon interruptus é um pequeno caracídeo amplamente distribuído na região Pampeana e comumente usado como isca. Seu vasto mercado se abastece de populações silvestres causando um impacto ambiental significativo. Neste estudo, investigamos o efeito do fotoperíodo no amadurecimento do ovário para avaliar o potencial deste fator como ferramenta para manipular a reprodução em condições artificiais. Quatro tratamentos foram testados por triplicado (luz: escuro, L: D): 24L: 0D, 12L: 12D, 0L: 24D e um fotoperíodo progressivo que simula as mudanças das horas luz na natureza e na transição de inverno a primavera, acelerado três vezes. O experimento se realizou durante 45 dias. O índice gonadossomático (GSI), o diâmetro médio dos ovócitos, a proporção de ovócitos vitelogênicos, as concentrações plasmáticas de estradiol (E2), o fator de condição (Kn) e o comprimento padrão foram estimados. Os valores médios de GSI, o diâmetro dos ovócitos, as proporções de ovócitos vitelogênicos e a concentração de E2 foram maximizados no fotoperíodo progressivo, indicando estimulação de vitelogênesis. Por outro lado, esses mesmos parâmetros resultaram mínimos no tratamento 24L: 0D, revelando um efeito inibidor da vitelogênesis. Este estudo mostrou que as variações de fotoperíodo exercem um papel importante no início vitelogênesis reprodutiva em C. interruptus .

Abstract Cheirodon interruptus is a ubiquitous small characid that inhabits the Pampean region and commonly used as bait. Its vast market is supplied from the wild population causing a significant environmental impact. In this study, we assess the effect of photoperiod on ovarian maturation in order to evaluate its potential as a tool to manipulate reproduction under artificial conditions. Four treatments in triplicate (light: dark, L: D) were tested: 24L: 0D, 12L: 12D, 0L: 24D and a progressive photoperiod corresponding to the daily photoperiod increments in wild during winter-spring transition, accelerated three times. The experiment was conducted for 45 days. Gonadosomatic index (GSI), oocyte mean diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions, plasma estradiol concentrations (E2), condition factor (Kn) and standard length were estimated. Values of mean GSI, oocyte diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions and E2 concentration were maximum in the progressive treatment indicating vitellogenesis stimulation. In turn the same parameters were minimum in the 24L: 0D, revealing the vitellogenesis inhibition. This study showed that photoperiodic regime play an important role in the onset of ovarian maturation in C. interruptus.

Abstract Synthetic biology (SynBio) it is considered a very recent discipline. View as a tool serves to design or re-design biological systems, giving them improved qualities or new qualities. In the SynBio, the design of new biological systems requires very precise molecular tools, such as: a) bioinformatics, b) sequencing NGS (Next Generation Sequencing), assembly and synthesis of DNA c) and CRISPR- Cas9 genome editing. Within the SynBio there are other social profile disciplines which concerned to ethical, legal, philosophical, and economic, and for that reason it is considered a multidiscipline. The SynBio is promoting the development of new (emerging) technologies based on an engineering perspective. In SynBio, DNA is understood in a practical and abstract way as a series of parts that can be assembled in a certain order to obtain the desired products once the functionality of each part is known. The SynBio has given rise to a new conception of the economy worldwide and consequently the term Bioeconomy is already taken very seriously as a new discipline that will transform societies.

Resumen La biología sintética (SynBio) es una disciplina de reciente aparición que sirve para diseñar o re-diseñar sistemas biológicos y otorgarles cualidades mejoradas o nuevas cualidades. En la SynBio el diseño de nuevos sistemas biológicos requiere de herramientas moleculares muy precisas, tales como: a) la bioinformática, b) la secuenciación NGS (Next Generation Sequencing), el ensamble y/o síntesis de ADN c) y la edición de genomas a través de CRISPR-Cas9. En la SynBio encontramos además otras disciplinas con un perfil más hacia el ámbito social, las cuales tocan aspectos éticos, legales, filosóficos y económicos, considerándose así una multidisciplina. La SynBio está propiciando el desarrollo de nuevas tecnologías (emergentes) partiendo de una óptica ingenieril. En la SynBio, al ADN se le entiende de forma práctica y abstracta como una serie de partes que se pueden ensamblar en cierto orden para obtener los productos deseados una vez que se conoce la funcionalidad de cada parte. La SynBio ha dado pie a una nueva concepción de la economía a nivel mundial y por consecuencia se ha tomado muy seriamente el termino Bioeconomía como una nueva disciplina que transformará a las sociedades.

Twenty-four lambs (Pelibuey x East Friesian), weighing 22.7 ± 3.2 kg, were fed a basal diet of corn silage, oat hay, alfalfa hay, and concentrate (60% forage and 40% concentrate). Treatments consisted of oral doses of rumen-protected methionine (RPM) (0 and 1.5 g/day) and herbal choline (biocholine) (0 and 4 g/day) in a completely random block design with factorial arrangement of treatments, where lambs were blocked by sex. The experiment was conducted for 60 days, and measurements of live weight and dry matter intake were obtained. No effects of the treatments were observed on performance variables (lamb growth, consumption and feed conversion). Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were increased by biocholine and unaffected by methionine (Met). Biocholine increased glucose and cholesterol, whereas methionine increased triglycerides, albumin and plasma protein. The dietary supplementation with biocholine and RPM did not improve lambs' growth; however, biocholine and Met showed a lipotropic effect by mobilizing NEFA and stimulating glucose and cholesterol synthesis.

Abstract This paper proposes to study the sedimentation characteristics of anaerobic sludge, by determining the settling velocity of sludge granules with the Griffith Tube. This is a simple, low-cost method, suitable for use in full-scale treatment plants. The settling characteristics of sludge from two laboratory-scale UASB reactors fed with saccharose and different concentrations of sodium oleate and sodium stereate were evaluated. Addition of fatty acids caused a gradual destabilization of the system, affecting overall performance. The sedimentation profile changed after addition of fatty acids to the synthetic substrate, decreased sedimentation velocity and increased granule diameter. This behaviour was attributed to the adsorption of fatty acids onto the granules, modifying the diameter, shape and density of these bioparticles.

Resumo Foi estabelecida uma transecção para examinar descritores ambientais e biológicos em uma área compacta de vegetação em mosaico na Chapada Diamantina, Nordeste do Brasil. A composição florística, espectro de formas de vida, precipitação e propriedades do solo foram avaliadas na transecção entre cerrado (savana brasileira) e caatinga (floresta tropical sazonalmente seca espinhosa, vegetação arbustivo-arbórea decídua), separados por vegetação de transição cerrado-caatinga. O levantamento florístico foi realizado mensalmente de abril de 2009 a março de 2012. Foi feita análise de agrupamento a fim de determinar a similaridade entre as fisionomias de cerrado, a caatinga e a transição cerrado-caatinga. As proporções de formas de vida foram comparadas utilizando o teste qui-quadrado. Amostras compostas de solo foram analisadas por variância simples (ANOVA) testando a existência de diferenças entre os solos de cada tipo de vegetação. A precipitação mensal em cada tipo de vegetação foi mensurada e os resultados comparados com o teste qui-quadrado. Coletamos 323 espécies de angiospermas pertencentes a 193 gêneros e 54 famílias. A análise de agrupamento demostrou diferença entre a composição florística do cerrado e da caatinga, com apenas 2% de similaridade. O teste qui-quadrado não demonstrou diferença estatística entre os valores registrados para cada mês. À medida que os conteúdos de matéria orgânica e argila aumentaram e o de areia diminuiu na caatinga, a proporção das formas de vida terófito, hemicriptófito e caméfito diminuiu e a de fanerófitos aumentou. Podemos considerar que a composição florística e o espectro de formas de vida delimitaram o cerrado e a caatinga na transecção estudada e que o solo foi o principal fator condicionante para determinação dos diferentes tipos de vegetação, independentemente da precipitação.

Abstract A transect was used to examine the environmental and biological descriptors of a compact vegetation mosaic in the Chapada Diamantina in northeastern Brazil, including the floristic composition, spectrum of plant life forms, rainfall, and soil properties that defined areas of cerrado (Brazilian savanna), caatinga (seasonally dry tropical forest thorny, deciduous shrub/arboreal vegetation) and cerrado-caatinga transition vegetation. The floristic survey was made monthly from April/2009 to March/2012. A dendrogram of similarity was generated using the Jaccard Index based on a matrix of the species that occurred in at least two of the vegetation types examined. The proportions of life forms in each vegetation type were compared using the chi-square test. Composite soil samples were analyzed by simple variance (ANOVA) to examine relationships between soil parameters of each vegetation type and the transition area. The monthly precipitation levels in each vegetation type were measured and compared using the chi-square test. A total of 323 species of angiosperms were collected distributed in 193 genera and 54 families. The dendrogram demonstrated strong difference between the floristic compositions of the cerrado and caatinga, sharing 2% similarity. The chi-square test did not demonstrate any significant statistical differences between the monthly values of recorded rainfall. The organic matter and clay contents of the soilsin the caatinga increased while sand decreased, and the proportions of therophyte, hemicryptophyte, and chamaephyte life forms decreased and phanerophytes increased. We can therefore conclude that the floristic composition and the spectrum of life forms combined to define the cerrado and caatinga vegetation along the transect examined, with soil being the principal conditioning factor determining the different vegetation types, independent of precipitation levels.

En esta investigación se buscó establecer la respuesta del porcentaje de germinación (PG), índice de sincronía (E), el tiempo medio de germinación (TMG) y la velocidad media de germinación (MGR) de semillas de anón Annona squamosa L. provenientes de Apulo (departamento de Cundinamarca) y Castilla (departamento de Tolima), Colombia, a tratamientos con 0, 50, 100 200, 400, 600 o 800 mg L-1 de ácido giberélico (GA). Todos los tratamientos con GA incrementaron los PG en cada punto del tiempo de incubación de las semillas. El tratamiento 600 mg L-1 GA generó mayores PG (92,3%, a los 16 días para Apulo y 95% a los 24 días para Castilla), menores TMG (8,75 y 5,38 días para Apulo y Castilla, respectivamente) que los hallados con la concentración de 0 mg L-1 GA (17,68 días para Apulo y 10,88 días para Castilla) y mayores VMG (0,18 y 0,12 semillas germinadas/día para Apulo y Castilla, respectivamente) que las obtenidas con 0 mg L-1 GA (Castilla= 0,09 y Apulo = 0,06 semillas germinadas/día). Así mismo, se observó una germinación más sincronizada con la aplicación de cualquier concentración de GA. Los resultados encontrados, evidencian la respuesta positiva a la aplicación de GA, lo cual brinda una herramienta en la caracterización del fenómeno de latencia en semillas de A. squamosa.

This research sought to establish the response of the germination percentage (PG), synchrony index (E), mean germination time (MGT) and mean germination rate (MGR) of Annona squamosa L. seeds from Apulo (province of Cundinamarca) and Castilla (province of Tolima), Colombia, to treatments with 0, 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, or 800 mg L-1 of gibberellic acid (GA). All of the treatments with GA increased the PG at each point of time of seed incubation. The 600 mg L-1 GA treatment resulted in higher PGs (92.3% at 16 days for Apulo and 95% at 24 days for Castilla) and lower MGTs (8.75 and 5.38 days for Apulo and Castilla, respectively) than those found with the concentration of 0 mg L-1 GA (17.68 and 10.88 days for Apulo and Castilla, respectively). Also, treating the seeds with 600 mg L-1 GA generated higher MGRs (0.18 and 0.12 germinated seeds/day for Castilla and Apulo, respectively) than those obtained with 0 mg L-1 GA (Castilla = 0.09 and Apulo = 0.06 germinated seeds/ day). Likewise, the germination was synchronized with the application of any concentration of GA. The results evidenced a positive response to the GA application, which provided a tool for the characterization of the phenomenon of dormancy in the A. squamosa seeds.

La guayaba especie frutícola perteneciente a la familia Myrtaceae; se destaca por ser una fruta de alto contenido vitamínico; es un cultivo con poca investigación y asistencia técnica, especialmente en el área de la fertilización, sin embargo, cuenta con enorme potencial de expansión en cuanto a tecnificación y rentabilidad. Plantas de guayaba var. ICA Palmira II de 3 meses de edad fueron trasplantadas a bolsas plásticas, fueron mantenidas durante 128 días en condiciones de invernadero plástico. Se indujo deficiencia nutricional mediante la técnica del elemento faltante en aplicación de soluciones nutritivas, usando un diseño experimental totalmente aleatorizado con 152 unidades muéstrales, 8 tratamientos y 3 repeticiones, de la siguiente forma: TO: aplicación de agua sin adición de elementos minerales; T1: fertilización completa (testigo absoluto); T2: sin nitrógeno (-N); T3: sin fósforo (-P); T4: sin potasio (-K); T5: sin magnesio (-Mg); T4: sin calcio (-Ca) y T7: sin boro (-B). se determinó la tasa relativa de crecimiento (TRC), índice de área foliar (IAF), área foliar específica (AFE), relación de área foliar (RAF) y tasa de asimilación neta (TAN). Se encontró Bue en comparación con la fertilización completa la omisión de nitrógeno, fue el tratamiento más limitante en etapas tempranas de desarrollo de plántulas de guayaba. En cambio, en el tratamiento sin boro (-B), el crecimiento y desarrollo de las plantas no se limitó, ya que no se reprimió la emisión de nuevos tejidos y la acumulación de materia seca. La carencia de K, P, Mg y Ca no presentó efecto negativo sobre el crecimiento y desarrollo de los árboles de guayaba, sin embargo, las plantas sometidas a estos tratamientos presentaron síntomas característicos de la deficiencia en plantas de interés agronómico.

The guava is a fruit species of the Myrtaceae familiy; it stands out as a fruit with a high vitamin conten. It is a crop with little research and technical assistance, especially in the area of fertilization, but has enormous potential for expansion in terms of modernization and profitability. Three(month( old guava trees of the ICA Palmira II variety were used, transplanted into plastic bags and kept for 128 days in a plastic greenhouse. Nutritional deficiency was induced with the missing element technique under a nutrient solution, using a completely randomized experiment design with 152 sampling units and 8 treatments with 3 repetitions: T0: application of water without the addition of mineral elements; T1: complete fertilization (absolute control); T2: -N; T3: -P; T4: -K; T5: -Mg; T4: -Ca and T7: -B. The relative growth rate (RGR), leaf area index (LAI), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf area ratio (RAF) and net assimilation rate (NAR) were determined9 It was found that the omission of nitrogen, as compared to complete fertilization, was the most limiting treatment in the early stages of seedling development of the guava. In contrast, in the -B treatment, the growth and development of the plants were not limited, as this treatment did not inhibit the emission of new tissue or dry matter accumulation. The lack of K, P, Mg and Ca presented no negative effect on the growth and development of the guava trees; however, the plants subjected to these treatments showed typical symptoms of deficiency in plants of agronomic interest.

Aquatic re-circulation systems (SAR) are being used more and more in agriculture, especially in the north of Chile where the environment conditions are suitable for breeding in SAR (aquatic re-circulation system) of species such as Bonito (Sarda chiliensis chiliensis), whose embryo or larvae origins are unknown, which complicates the evaluation of a technical and economical possibility of developing its breeding in SAR. Due to this, bases for its breeding were determined in January 2013, for 45 days. The characterized embryo periods were 31 in 71, 83 hours, defined in 5 stages: Morula, Blastula, Gastrula, Neurulation and Metamery. From the larvae development 35 periods in 519 hours were observed, a pre-juvenile stage observed at 591 hours and a juvenile one. The eggs were translucent of a telolecitic type of a slow growing in relation to Sarda sarda and Sarda ch. lineolata, since it took them almost three days to hatch. The surviving and hatching rates were high (86,316±9,808% and 89,596±11,683% respectively), so the conditions for their development would be appropriate. Meanwhile, the larvae presented more similarities with Sarda sarda in the first periods of development. The crucial period was between the 81 and 89 hours of life, when the oily drop was re-absorbed; besides, this was a distinguishing feature with the other two species because it was the only one that presented just one oily drop in the larvae period. The possibility of a Sarda ch. chiliensis hatchery is inferred, due to the similarities with Sarda sarda, and because of the success obtained in this breeding. From the morphometric characters, future monitoring is suggested, the ones that represent the most variables in the stages of development such as length and height of the head, and length and height of the eye.

Los sistemas acuícolas de recirculación (SAR) son utilizados cada vez más en la acuicultura, especialmente en el norte de Chile en donde las condiciones ambientales son propicias para el cultivo de especies nativas como el bonito (Sarda chiliensis chiliensis), del cual se desconoce su desarrollo embrionario y larval, lo que complica evaluar la factibilidad técnica y económica de desarrollar su cultivo en SAR. Por ello se determinó las bases para su cultivo a partir de enero de 2013, durante 45 días. Los periodos embrionarios caracterizados fueron 31 en 71,83 horas, definidos en 5 estadios: Mórula, Blástula, Gástrula, Neurulación y Metamería. Del desarrollo larval se observaron 35 periodos en 519 horas, un estadio prejuvenil observado a las 591 horas y uno juvenil. Los huevos fueron translúcidos de tipo telolecítico de crecimiento lento en relación a Sarda sarda y Sarda ch. lineolata (especies con las que fue comparada), ya que le tomó casi 3 días eclosionar. Las tasas de sobrevivencia y eclosión fueron altas (86,316% ±9,808 y 89,596% ±11,683 respectivamente), por esto las condiciones serían propicias para su desarrollo. Las larvas en tanto, presentaron más semejanzas con Sarda sarda, en los primeros periodos de desarrollo. El periodo crucial fue entre las 81 a 89 horas de vida, cuando se reabsorbió la gota oleosa; ésta además fue un carácter diferenciador con las otras 2 especies, ya que fue la única que presentó 1 gota oleosa en el periodo larval. Se infiere la factibilidad de un hatchery de Sarda ch. chilensis, debido a las semejanzas con Sarda sarda, y dado el éxito obtenido de ésta en cultivo. De los caracteres morfométricos se sugiere monitorear en el futuro, los que representan las mayores variabilidades dentro de los estadios de desarrollo, que fueron longitud y alto de cabeza y longitud y alto de ojo.

Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo de forragem e o desempenho de ovinos mantidos em pastagem de capim-aruana, submetidos a porcentagens crescentes de proteína bruta (PB) no suplemento, na época seca. Vinte borregos da raça Santa Inês foram utilizados em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os suplementos foram fornecidos em 1,0% do peso corporal, nas porcentagens de 0, 15, 20, 25 e 30%. O aumento de proteína bruta influenciou o consumo total de matéria seca (kg/dia) e a porcentagem do peso vivo, com valores máximos estimados de 1.296g (3,2% de MS) com 21,48 e 21,89% de PB no suplemento, respectivamente. O consumo de forragem máximo, estimado de 893g/dia, ocorreu com a PB de 21,5%. O aumento de PB nos suplementos resultou em efeito quadrático sobre o ganho médio diário, com valor máximo de 104g/dia com a PB de 23% no suplemento. Recomenda-se o uso de suplementos múltiplos com 21 a 23% de PB fornecidos na proporção de 1% do peso corporal (PC) para ovinos mantidos em pastos de capim-aruana na época seca.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the forage intake and grazing sheep performance keep on Aruana grass subjected to increasing crude protein (CP) levels in the supplement on dry season. Twenty Santa Ines male lambs were used, with initial body weight of 31.80kg by a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications. The supplements were provided daily at 1% of body weight, with protein levels of 0, 15, 20, 25 and 30%. The increase of the crude protein levels promoted a squarely effect on dry matter intake (kg/day and % of BW), with maximum estimated values of 1296g and 3.2% of DM in CP levels of 21.48 and 21.89, respectively. The maximum forage intake estimated of 893g/day occurred in CP level de 21.51%. The increased of crude protein level in supplements increased squarely the average daily gain, with a maximum of 104g/day, for the 23% crude protein in the supplement. Thus, the use of the multiple supplements supplied in 1% of body weight with CP levels ranged 21 a 23% is indicated for sheep grazing Aruana grass on dry season.

El anón es de gran importancia económica para el país, sin embargo, la información referida a aspectos estructurales de la familia Annonaceae está limitada a algunas pocas especies y los estudios anatómicos referidos a semillas son muy escasos. Empleando técnicas histológicas y microscopia, semillas de las especie Annona squamosa L. fueron estudiadas con respecto a sus características anatómicas. En general, presentan el patrón anatómico típico para semillas de la familia Annonaceae. La testa multiplicativa fue conformada por exo, meso y endotesta, con presencia de fibras longitudinales y oblicuas. Se observó un embrión pequeño, recto, con eje embrionario moderadamente desarrollado, plúmula rudimentaria y cotiledones planos y delgados en el que se puede apreciar el procambium. En particular, se observó la pericálaza en el plano longitudinal mediano de la endotesta, con más de dos filas de tejido vascular. El tegmen o integumento interno se observó colapsado. El plug micropilar fue cónico, leñoso y formado por células fibras transversales, se observó también línea de fractura. El endospermo ruminado se vió interferido tanto por el integumento interno como por el externo. Se observaron idioblastos oleíferos en los bordes externos de las ruminaciones

The sugar apple is of great economic importance to the country, however, information on the anatomical and morphological aspects of Annonaceae family seeds is limited to a few species and the anatomical studies refer to very few seeds. Using histological techniques and microscopy, Annona squamosa L. seeds were studied with regard to their anatomical characteristics. In general, they presented the typical anatomical patterns of seeds of the Annonaceae family. The multilayered testa was comprised of exo-, meso- and endotestas, with the presence of longitudinal and oblique fibers. The embryo was small and straight with moderately developed embryonic axis, rudimentary plumule and flat and thin cotyledons, wherein one could observe the procambium. In particular, the perichalaza was observed in the medium longitudinal plane of the endotesta with more than two rows of vascular tissue. The tegmen or inner integument was collapsed. The micropylar plug was tapered, woody and composed of transverse fibers; a fracture line was also observed. The ruminate endosperm interfered with both the inner and external integuments. Oleiferous idioblasts were observed at the outer edges of the ruminations

Background. Pylephlebitis is thrombophlebitis of the portal vein and/or of its branches; it is acute and generally arises as a complication of inflammatory intra-abdominal processes or of surgical interventions in patients with blood discrasies. As its clinical picture is fairly non-specific, radiological findings, while not pathognomonic, are of great use in early diagnosis and improved vital prognosis of these patients. The aims of this study are to review the pathophysiology of this entity and its clinical and radiological presentation, which allow for early clinical suspicion. Clinical cases. Three cases of pylephlebitis are presented, two of them post-surgical, in which the only common clinical data for suspicion were the febricula and leucocytosis. Diagnosis was obtained from the finding of helicoidal computer tomography with IV contrast - Somaton Siemens - and abdominal echography - Ellegra Siemens - carried out on the three. The result of these tests was decisive for an early diagnosis, efficient treatment and satisfactory evolution in the three cases. Discussion. We wish to emphasize the importance of clinical suspicion and early radiology for an early diagnosis of this entity, which make it possible to establish an efficient treatment.

Fundamento. La pileflebitis es la tromboflebitis séptica de la vena porta y/o de sus ramas, de manera aguda y generalmente como complicación de procesos inflamatorios intraabdominales o de intervenciones quirúrgicas en pacientes con discrasias sanguíneas. Siendo la clínica bastante inespecífica, los hallazgos radiológicos aunque no patognomónicos, son de gran utilidad para el diagnóstico precoz y un mejor pronóstico vital de estos pacientes. El objetivo de este trabajo es revisar la patogenia de esta entidad y sus modos de presentación clínica y radiológica, que permitan cierto grado de sospecha precoz. Casos clínicos. Se presentan tres casos de pileflebitis, dos de ellos postquirúrgicos, en los que los únicos datos clínicos comunes de sospecha fueron la febrícula y la leucocitosis. El diagnóstico se consiguió a partir de los hallazgos de la tomografía computarizada helicoidal con contraste i.v. _Somaton Siemens_ y de la ecografía abdominal _Ellegra Siemens_ realizados en los tres. El resultado de estas pruebas resultó decisivo para el diagnóstico precoz, el tratamiento eficaz y la evolución satisfactoria en los tres casos. Discusión. Queremos enfatizar la importancia de una sospecha clínica y radiológica precoz para el diagnóstico temprano de esta entidad, que permita la instauración de un tratamiento dirigido y eficaz.

This paper discusses the performance of an 800m³ full-scale UASB reactor in treating meat-packing plant and slaughterhouse effluents containing high concentrations of oil and grease (O&G) (413-645 mg/L), resulting in a COD/O&G ratio of 26-32%. Those macromolecules were considered responsible for the unbalance of the system resulting in a total washout of the biomass. The removal of O&G from the influent using a physicochemical system (coagulation-flocculation) improved the physical characteristics of the anaerobic sludge, controlling the biomass washout. Reactor performance was significantly improved when the COD/O&G ratio influent was maintained in the 10%. The COD and O&G removal rates obtained after implantation of the physicochemical system were 70-92% and 27-58%, respectively. The specific methanogenic activity (SMA) of the biomass shows towards a tendency stabilisation and adaptation to the substrate influent. Pretreatment of the influent allowed the maximum organic load to be increased (1.46 to 2.43 Kg COD/m³.d) and improved the quality of the effluent.

Introduction. Radiological control of the breast that has been operated because of cancer and reconstructed has a double aim: to provide early detection of any recurrence and data on the state of the reconstructive mechanisms employed. Methods. We must know the clinical-surgical antecedents of the patient, especially the surgical technique, the implant model used, its localisation and the existence of any symptomatology. The radiological techniques employed are the mammography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance. The first is useful in detecting extracapsular breast implant rupture but inefficient in intracapsular rupture. Ultrasound is superior in the visualisation of signs of intracapsular rupture and the detection of infiltrating carcinoma, although it does not manage to visualise calcifications with reliability. Magnetic resonance is the most sensitive and efficient technique for detecting infiltrating relapses and also for intra and extracapsular ruptures. If the exact nature of a lesion cannot be reliably determined with image techniques, the next step is a percutaneous biopsy, extracting samples that are suitable for cytohistological analysis. The guide systems for percutaneous puncture include: palpation, mammography-stereotaxy, ultrasound and magnetic resonance. Results. Abnormal findings in the reconstructed breast are classified in three groups, according to origin and localisation: 1.- dependent on the implants; 2.- extraprosthetic benign pathology; and 3.- malign pathology. The different pathological situations that might appear are reviewed. Conclusions. Yearly radiological control of the patient with reconstruction following breast cancer is important because of the high risk of relapse and new tumours. Radiological and clinical control are complementary and include local and regional control.Mammography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance are the most suitable techniques for radiological control. Suspicion of relapse should be confirmed by percutaneous puncture. The correct use of these techniques requires experience and a preferential dedication to breast radiology.

Introducción. El control radiológico de la mama operada por cáncer y reconstruida tiene un doble objetivo: detectar precozmente una posible recurrencia y aportar datos sobre el estado de los mecanismos reconstructivos utilizados. Métodos. Deberemos conocer los antecedentes clínico-quirúrgicos de la paciente, en especial, la técnica quirúrgica, el modelo de implante colocado, su localización y la existencia o no de sintomatología.Las técnicas radiológicas empleadas son la mamografía, ecografía y resonancia magnética. La primera es útil para detectar roturas extracapsulares pero ineficaz para roturas intracapsulares. La ecografía es superior en la visualización de signos de rotura intracapsular y en la detección del carcinoma infiltrante, aunque no consigue visualizar con fiabilidad las calcificaciones. La resonancia magnética es la técnica más sensible y eficaz para detectar recidivas infiltrantes y también para roturas intra y extracapsulares. Si la naturaleza exacta de una lesión no puede ser determinada con fiabilidad con técnicas de imagen, el siguiente paso es una biopsia percutánea, extrayendo muestras aptas para análisis citohistológico. Los sistemas de guía para punción percutánea incluyen: palpación, mamografía-estereotaxia, ecografía y resonancia magnética. Resultados. Los hallazgos anormales en la mama reconstruída se clasifican en tres grupos, según su origen y localización: 1- dependientes de los implantes, 2- patología benigna extraprotésica y 3- patología maligna. Se repasan las diferentes situaciones patológicas que pueden aparecer. Conclusiones. El control radiológico anual de la paciente reconstruida tras un cáncer de mama es importante por el alto riesgo de recidiva y nuevos tumores. El control radiológico y el clínico son complementarios e incluyen el control local y regional. Mamografía, ecografía y resonancia magnética son las técnicas indicadas para el control radiológico. La sospecha de recidiva deberá ser confirmada mediante punción percutánea. El uso adecuado de estas técnicas requiere experiencia y dedicación preferente a la radiología mamaria.

Neurocysticerosis is an affection of the central nervous system by the larvae of the Taenia solium. Although its diagnosis in our country is exceptional, in recent years a notable increase in the number of cases diagnosed has been observed, due to the phenomenon of immigration from countries where the disease is endemic. The most frequent form of presentation of neurocysticercosis is seizures, followed by headache. To diagnose it we must evaluate the epidemiological data, the clinical record and confirm this through neuroimage and immunological studies. The treatment selected should be pharmacological, principally with albendazole, and surgery reserved for cases where the former fails. Hygienic measures and the treatment of patients with teniasis are of great importance. Neurocysticerosis has ceased to be an exceptional diagnosis and given the foreseeable increase of its incidence in our milieu, health professionals must understand this disease and include it at higher levels of the algorithms of differential diagnosis.

La neurocisticercosis es una afectación del sistema nervioso central por las larvas de la Taenia solium. Aunque en nuestro país su diagnóstico era excepcional, en los últimos años se ha observado un notable incremento en el número de casos diagnosticados, debido al fenómeno de la inmigración desde países donde la enfermedad es endémica. La forma de presentación más frecuente de la neurocisticercosis es la crisis epiléptica, seguida de la cefalea. Para el diagnóstico de sospecha debemos valorar los datos epidemiológicos y la clínica y confirmarlo mediante los estudios de neuroimagen e inmunológicos. El tratamiento de elección debe ser farmacológico, principalmente con albendazol, y reservar la cirugía para los casos en el que el primero falla. Las medidas higiénico-sanitarias y el tratamiento de los pacientes con teniasis son de suma importancia. La neurocisticercosis ha dejado de ser uno de esos diagnósticos excepcionales y dado el previsible aumento de su incidencia en nuestro medio, los profesionales sanitarios debemos conocer dicha enfermedad e incluirla en niveles más altos de los algoritmos de diagnóstico diferencial.