Impact of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on Cry1Ac protein contents in transgenic cotton

Abstract Application of different fertilizers to check the efficiency of expression of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) gene in one of the leading commercialized crops (cotton) against Lepidopteran species is of great concern. The expression of Cry protein level can be controlled by the improvement of nutrients levels. Therefore, the myth of response of Cry toxin to different combinations of NP fertilizers was explored in three Bt cotton cultivars. Combinations include three levels of nitrogen and three levels of phosphorus fertilizers. Immunostrips and Cry gene(s) specific primer based PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) analysis were used for the presence of Bt gene that unveiled the presence of Cry1Ac gene only. Further, the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit was used to quantify the expression of Cry1Ac protein. Under various NP fertilizers rates, the level of toxin protein exhibited highly significant differences. The highest toxin level mean was found to be 2.3740 and 2.1732 µg/g under the treatment of N150P75 kg ha-1 combination while the lowest toxin level mean was found to be 0.9158 and 0.7641 µg/g at the N50P25 kg ha-1 level at 80 and 120 DAS (Days After Sowing), respectively. It was concluded from the research that the usage of NP fertilizers has a positive relation with the expression of Cry1Ac toxin in Bt cotton. We recommend using the N150P50 kg ha-1 level as the most economical and practicable fertilizer instead of the standard dose N100P50 kg ha-1 to get the desired level of Cry1Ac level for long lasting plant resistance ( 1.5). The revised dose of fertilizer may help farmers to avoid the cross-resistance development in contradiction of insect pests.

Resumo A aplicação de diferentes fertilizantes para verificar a eficiência da expressão do gene Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) em uma das principais culturas comercializadas (algodão) contra espécies de lepidópteros é uma grande preocupação. A expressão do nível de proteína Cry pode ser controlada pela melhoria dos níveis de nutrientes. Portanto, o mito da resposta da toxina Cry a diferentes combinações de fertilizantes NP foi explorado em três cultivares de algodão Bt. As combinações incluem três níveis de nitrogênio e três níveis de fertilizantes de fósforo. A análise de PCR (reação em cadeia da polimerase) específica para o gene (s) Immunostrips e Cry (s) foi usada para a presença do gene Bt que revelou a presença do gene Cry1Ac apenas. Além disso, o kit ELISA (ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática) foi usado para quantificar a expressão da proteína Cry1Ac. Sob várias taxas de fertilizantes NP, o nível de proteína de toxina exibiu diferenças altamente significativas. A média do nível mais alto de toxina foi de 2,3740 e 2,1732 µg / g sob o tratamento da combinação N150P75 kg ha-1, enquanto a média do nível mais baixo de toxina foi de 0,9158 e 0,7641 µg / g no nível de N50P25 kg ha-1 em 80 e 120 DAS (dias após a semeadura), respectivamente. Concluiu-se com a pesquisa que o uso de fertilizantes NP tem relação positiva com a expressão da toxina Cry1Ac no algodão Bt. Recomendamos o uso do nível de N150P50 kg ha-1 como o fertilizante mais econômico e praticável em vez da dose padrão N100P50 kg ha-1 para obter o nível desejado de nível de Cry1Ac para resistência de planta de longa duração ( 1,5). A dose revisada de fertilizante pode ajudar os agricultores a evitar o desenvolvimento de resistência cruzada em contradição com as pragas de insetos.

Impact of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on Cry1Ac protein contents in transgenic cotton / Impacto de fertilizantes de nitrogênio e fósforo nos conteúdos de proteína Cry1Ac em algodão transgênico

Abstract Application of different fertilizers to check the efficiency of expression of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) gene in one of the leading commercialized crops (cotton) against Lepidopteran species is of great concern. The expression of Cry protein level can be controlled by the improvement of nutrients levels. Therefore, the myth of response of Cry toxin to different combinations of NP fertilizers was explored in three Bt cotton cultivars. Combinations include three levels of nitrogen and three levels of phosphorus fertilizers. Immunostrips and Cry gene(s) specific primer based PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) analysis were used for the presence of Bt gene that unveiled the presence of Cry1Ac gene only. Further, the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit was used to quantify the expression of Cry1Ac protein. Under various NP fertilizers rates, the level of toxin protein exhibited highly significant differences. The highest toxin level mean was found to be 2.3740 and 2.1732 µg/g under the treatment of N150P75 kg ha-1 combination while the lowest toxin level mean was found to be 0.9158 and 0.7641 µg/g at the N50P25 kg ha-1 level at 80 and 120 DAS (Days After Sowing), respectively. It was concluded from the research that the usage of NP fertilizers has a positive relation with the expression of Cry1Ac toxin in Bt cotton. We recommend using the N150P50 kg ha-1 level as the most economical and practicable fertilizer instead of the standard dose N100P50 kg ha-1 to get the desired level of Cry1Ac level for long lasting plant resistance (<1.5). The revised dose of fertilizer may help farmers to avoid the cross-resistance development in contradiction of insect pests.

Resumo A aplicação de diferentes fertilizantes para verificar a eficiência da expressão do gene Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) em uma das principais culturas comercializadas (algodão) contra espécies de lepidópteros é uma grande preocupação. A expressão do nível de proteína Cry pode ser controlada pela melhoria dos níveis de nutrientes. Portanto, o mito da resposta da toxina Cry a diferentes combinações de fertilizantes NP foi explorado em três cultivares de algodão Bt. As combinações incluem três níveis de nitrogênio e três níveis de fertilizantes de fósforo. A análise de PCR (reação em cadeia da polimerase) específica para o gene (s) Immunostrips e Cry (s) foi usada para a presença do gene Bt que revelou a presença do gene Cry1Ac apenas. Além disso, o kit ELISA (ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática) foi usado para quantificar a expressão da proteína Cry1Ac. Sob várias taxas de fertilizantes NP, o nível de proteína de toxina exibiu diferenças altamente significativas. A média do nível mais alto de toxina foi de 2,3740 e 2,1732 µg / g sob o tratamento da combinação N150P75 kg ha-1, enquanto a média do nível mais baixo de toxina foi de 0,9158 e 0,7641 µg / g no nível de N50P25 kg ha-1 em 80 e 120 DAS (dias após a semeadura), respectivamente. Concluiu-se com a pesquisa que o uso de fertilizantes NP tem relação positiva com a expressão da toxina Cry1Ac no algodão Bt. Recomendamos o uso do nível de N150P50 kg ha-1 como o fertilizante mais econômico e praticável em vez da dose padrão N100P50 kg ha-1 para obter o nível desejado de nível de Cry1Ac para resistência de planta de longa duração (<1,5). A dose revisada de fertilizante pode ajudar os agricultores a evitar o desenvolvimento de resistência cruzada em contradição com as pragas de insetos.

Impact of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on Cry1Ac protein contents in transgenic cotton / Impacto de fertilizantes de nitrogênio e fósforo nos conteúdos de proteína Cry1Ac em algodão transgênico

Application of different fertilizers to check the efficiency of expression of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) gene in one of the leading commercialized crops (cotton) against Lepidopteran species is of great concern. The expression of Cry protein level can be controlled by the improvement of nutrients levels. Therefore, the myth of response of Cry toxin to different combinations of NP fertilizers was explored in three Bt cotton cultivars. Combinations include three levels of nitrogen and three levels of phosphorus fertilizers. Immunostrips and Cry gene(s) specific primer based PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) analysis were used for the presence of Bt gene that unveiled the presence of Cry1Ac gene only. Further, the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit was used to quantify the expression of Cry1Ac protein. Under various NP fertilizers rates, the level of toxin protein exhibited highly significant differences. The highest toxin level mean was found to be 2.3740 and 2.1732 µg/g under the treatment of N150P75 kg ha-¹ combination while the lowest toxin level mean was found to be 0.9158 and 0.7641 µg/g at the N50P25 kg ha-¹ level at 80 and 120 DAS (Days After Sowing), respectively. It was concluded from the research that the usage of NP fertilizers has a positive relation with the expression of Cry1Ac toxin in Bt cotton. We recommend using the N150P50 kg ha-1 level as the most economical and practicable fertilizer instead of the standard dose N100P50 kg ha-¹ to get the desired level of Cry1Ac level for long lasting plant resistance (<1.5). The revised dose of fertilizer may help farmers to avoid the cross-resistance development in contradiction of insect pests.

A aplicação de diferentes fertilizantes para verificar a eficiência da expressão do gene Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) em uma das principais culturas comercializadas (algodão) contra espécies de lepidópteros é uma grande preocupação. A expressão do nível de proteína Cry pode ser controlada pela melhoria dos níveis de nutrientes. Portanto, o mito da resposta da toxina Cry a diferentes combinações de fertilizantes NP foi explorado em três cultivares de algodão Bt. As combinações incluem três níveis de nitrogênio e três níveis de fertilizantes de fósforo. A análise de PCR (reação em cadeia da polimerase) específica para o gene (s) Immunostrips e Cry (s) foi usada para a presença do gene Bt que revelou a presença do gene Cry1Ac apenas. Além disso, o kit ELISA (ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática) foi usado para quantificar a expressão da proteína Cry1Ac. Sob várias taxas de fertilizantes NP, o nível de proteína de toxina exibiu diferenças altamente significativas. A média do nível mais alto de toxina foi de 2,3740 e 2,1732 µg / g sob o tratamento da combinação N150P75 kg ha-¹, enquanto a média do nível mais baixo de toxina foi de 0,9158 e 0,7641 µg / g no nível de N50P25 kg ha-¹ em 80 e 120 DAS (dias após a semeadura), respectivamente. Concluiu-se com a pesquisa que o uso de fertilizantes NP tem relação positiva com a expressão da toxina Cry1Ac no algodão Bt. Recomendamos o uso do nível de N150P50 kg ha-¹ como o fertilizante mais econômico e praticável em vez da dose padrão N100P50 kg ha-¹ para obter o nível desejado de nível de Cry1Ac para resistência de planta de longa duração (<1,5). A dose revisada de fertilizante pode ajudar os agricultores a evitar o desenvolvimento de resistência cruzada em contradição com as pragas de insetos.

A double fluorescence chimeric limb regeneration model reveals muscle fiber reconnection during axolotl limb regeneration / Modelo de regeneración quimérica de doble fluorescencia del miembro revela la reconexión de la fibra muscular durante la regeneración del miembro axolotl

SUMMARY: Axolotl limb regeneration is a fascinating characteristic that has attracted attention for several decades. Our previous studies on axolotl limb regeneration indicated that the satellite cells in the remnant muscles move distally into the blastema to regenerate new muscles that are separated by a gap from remnant muscles. Thereafter, the regenerative muscle fibers start to reconnect with remnant ones. In this study, the reconnection at the individual muscle fiber level was elucidated to test the hypothesis that this reconnection happens synchronously among involved muscles. Three pairs of EGFP+ mid-bud stage blastemas were transplanted onto freshly amputated stumps of RFP+ axolotls at the same thigh position to generate double fluorescence chimeric regenerative hindlimbs. These regenerative limbs were harvested very late far beyond they had reached the late differentiation stage. Fluorescence imaging of these limbs in cross sections revealed that in the proximal remnant part of the muscle fiber, reconnection occurred at a different pace among the muscles. In the major thigh muscle gracilis, the reconnection started from the periphery before it was completed. Furthermore, RFP+ muscle fibers contributed to muscle regeneration in the distal regenerative parts. Intriguingly, this red cell contribution was limited to ventral superficial muscles of the calf. This kind of double fluorescence chimeric limb regeneration model may help increase the understanding of the patterning of axolotl limb regeneration in late stages.

RESUMEN: La regeneración del miembro de Axolotl es una característica fascinante que ha llamado la atención durante varias décadas. Nuestros estudios previos sobre la regeneración del miembro del Axolotl indicaron que las células satélite en los músculos remanentes se mueven distalmente hacia el blastema para regenerar nuevos músculos que están separados por una brecha de músculos remanentes. A partir de entonces, las fibras musculares regenerativas comienzan a reconectarse con las restantes. En este estudio, se aclaró la reconexión a nivel de fibra muscular individual para probar la hipótesis de que esta reconexión ocurre sincrónicamente entre los músculos involucrados. Se trasplantaron tres pares de blastemas EGFP+ en la etapa de yema media en tocones recién amputados de axolotls RFP+ en la misma posición del muslo para generar miembros posteriores regenerativos quiméricos de fluorescencia doble. Estos miembros regenerativos se cosecharon muy tarde mucho más allá de haber alcanzado la etapa de diferenciación tardía. Las imágenes de fluorescencia de estos miembros en secciones transversales revelaron que en la parte remanente proximal de la fibra muscular, la reconexión se produjo a un ritmo diferente entre los músculos. En el músculo grácil, la reconexión comenzó desde la periferia antes de completarse. Además, las fibras musculares RFP+ contribuyeron a la regeneración muscular en las partes regenerativas distales. Curiosamente, esta contribución de glóbulos rojos se limitó a los músculos superficiales ventrales de la pantorrilla. Este tipo de modelo de regeneración quimérica de doble fluorescencia del miembro puede ayudar a aumentar la comprensión del patrón de la regeneración del miembro del Axolotl en etapas tardías.

Primary motor cortex alterations in Alzheimer disease: A study in the 3xTg-AD model. / Alteraciones en la corteza motora primaria en la enfermedad de Alzheimer: estudio en el modelo 3xTg-AD.

INTRODUCTION: In humans and animal models, Alzheimer disease (AD) is characterised by accumulation of amyloid-ß peptide (Aß) and hyperphosphorylated tau protein, neuronal degeneration, and astrocytic gliosis, especially in vulnerable brain regions (hippocampus and cortex). These alterations are associated with cognitive impairment (loss of memory) and non-cognitive impairment (motor impairment). The purpose of this study was to identify cell changes (neurons and glial cells) and aggregation of Aß and hyperphosphorylated tau protein in the primary motor cortex (M1) in 3xTg-AD mouse models at an intermediate stage of AD. METHODS: We used female 3xTg-AD mice aged 11 months and compared them to non-transgenic mice of the same age. In both groups, we assessed motor performance (open field test) and neuronal damage in M1 using specific markers: BAM10 (extracellular Aß aggregates), tau 499 (hyperphosphorylated tau protein), GFAP (astrocytes), and Klüver-Barrera staining (neurons). RESULTS: Female 3xTg-AD mice in intermediate stages of the disease displayed motor and cellular alterations associated with Aß and hyperphosphorylated tau protein deposition in M1. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with AD display signs and symptoms of functional impairment from early stages. According to our results, M1 cell damage in intermediate-stage AD affects motor function, which is linked to progression of the disease.

Animal models of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Animal models of disease have always been welcomed by the scientific community because they provide an approach to the investigation of certain aspects of the disease in question. Animal models of COPD cannot reproduce the heterogeneity of the disease and usually only manage to represent the disease in its milder stages. Moreover, airflow obstruction, the variable that determines patient diagnosis, not always taken into account in the models. For this reason, models have focused on the development of emphysema, easily detectable by lung morphometry, and have disregarded other components of the disease, such as airway injury or associated vascular changes. Continuous, long-term exposure to cigarette smoke is considered the main risk factor for this disease, justifying the fact that the cigarette smoke exposure model is the most widely used. Some variations on this basic model, related to exposure time, the association of other inducers or inhibitors, exacerbations or the use of transgenic animals to facilitate the identification of pathogenic pathways have been developed. Some variations or heterogeneity of this disease, then, can be reproduced and models can be designed for resolving researchers' questions on disease identification or treatment responses.

Resistencia a Phytophthora infestans linaje clonal EC-1 en Solanum tuberosum mediante la introducción del gen RB

Una de las opciones para el control de la enfermedad del tizón tardío de la papa es el desarrollo de variedades resistentes a Phytophthora infestans mediante la transferencia directa de genes de resistencia (R) por ingeniería genética. En el siguiente trabajo de investigación, se usó el gen RB de Solanum bulbocastanum, el cual otorga un amplio espectro de resistencia a razas de P. infestans. Para dicho fin, se transformó genéticamente vía Agrobacterium la variedad susceptible de papa Desiree (Solanum tuberosum) con el vector binario pCIP68 que contiene el gen RB. Como resultado, se obtuvieron 19 plantas transformadas con el gen RB, confirmadas por la prueba de resistencia a kanamicina y por la prueba de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR). Las 19 plantas transgénicas fueron sometidas a infección en invernadero bajo condiciones de bioseguridad con el aislamiento POX067 de P. infestans perteneciente al linaje clonal EC-1 que es dominante en el Perú. Tres de las 19 plantas ([RB]54, [RB]56 y [RB]70) presentaron un alto nivel de resistencia al aislamiento POX067 de P. infestans.

One of the most efficient options for the control of late blight disease in potato (Solanum tuberosum) is the development of resistant varieties to Phytophthora infestans mediated by the direct transfer of resistance (R) genes through genetic engineering. In the present work, we used Solanum bulbocastanum RB gene to confers broad spectrum resistance to P. infestans races. To that end, Agrobacterium - mediated genetic transformation was used to transform a susceptible potato variety, Desiree, with the binary vector pCIP68 harboring the RB gene. As a result, 19 transformed plants containing the RB gene were obtained. kanamycin resistance test and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays confirmed the integration of the T-DNA in the potato genome. The 19 transformed plants, also called transgenic events were subjected to infection under biosafety greenhouse conditions. Phytophthora infestans isolate POX067 of the EC-1 clonal lineage, commonly find in Peru, was used for the infection. Three of the 19 plants ([RB]54, [RB]56 and [RB]70) show high resistance levels to isolate POX067 of P. infestans.

Alteraciones hipocampales y cambios cognitivos preceden al deposito de placas amiloides en un modelo murino de la enfermedad de Alzheimer

Existen múltiples evidencias de alteraciones neuronales y gliales en etapas avanzadas de la enfemedad de Alzheimer con abundantes depósitos cerebrales de beta amiloide, aunque hay pocos datos de cambios tempranos que podrían contribuir al desarrollo de la enfermedad. Evaluamos alteraciones morfológicas neuronales y gliales, y cambios cognitivos y emocionales tempranos en ratones transgénicos PDAPP-J20 (Tg), portadores del gen humano de APP (amyloid precursor protein) mutado, a los 5 meses de edad, aún sin depósitos amiloides en el hipocampo y con niveles bajos de péptidos amiloides cerebrales. Mediante inmunohistoquímica para NeuN, los Tg presentaron menor número de neuronas piramidales y granulares en el hipocampo, junto con un menor volumen de la estructura, en comparación con los controles no transgénicos. La neurogénesis se encontró afectada, evidenciada por reducido número de neuronas DCX+ en el giro dentado. En la región CA3, hubo una menor densidad de sinaptofisina sugiriendo alteraciones sinápticas entre neuronas granulares y piramidales, sin cambios en la densidad de espinas dendríticas en CA1. Utilizando microscopía confocal, observamos una disminución del número de astrocitos GFAP+ con una reducción de la complejidad celular, sugiriendo atrofia glial. Se detectó un déficit cognitivo (reconocimiento de localización novedosa de un objeto) y un aumento de la ansiedad (campo abierto) en los Tg, con aumento en los núcleos c-Fos+ en amígdala, evidenciando el papel de la emocionalidad en los inicios de la enfermedad. El estudio de las alteraciones iniciales en la enfermedad amiloide podría contribuir al desarrollo de métodos de diagnóstico temprano y de terapéutica preventiva.(AU)

Although there is strong evidence about neuronal and glial disturbances at advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, less attention has been directed to early, pre-amyloid changes that could contribute to the progression of the disease. We evaluated neuronal and glial morphological changes and behavioral disturbances in PDAPP-J20 transgenic (Tg) mice, carrying mutated human APP gene (amyloid precursor protein), at 5 months of age, before brain amyloid deposition occurs. Using NeuN immunohistochemistry we found decreased numbers of pyramidal and granular neurons in the hippocampus associated with a reduction of hippocampal volume in Tg mice compared with controls. Neurogenesis was impaired, evidenced by means of DCX immunohistochemistry in the dentate gyrus. In the CA3 region we found a decreased density of synaptophysin, suggesting synaptic disturbance, but no changes were found in CA1 synaptic spine density. Using confocal microscopy we observed decreased number and cell complexity of GFAP+ astrocytes, indicating potential glial atrophy. Cognitive impairment (novel location recognition test) and increased anxiety (open field) were detected in Tg mice, associated with more c-Fos+ nuclei in the amygdala, possibly indicating a role for emotionality in early stages of the disease. The study of early alterations in the course of amyloid pathology could contribute to the development of diagnostic and preventive strategies.(AU)

Alteraciones hipocampales y cambios cognitivos preceden al deposito de placas amiloides en un modelo murino de la enfermedad de Alzheimer

Existen múltiples evidencias de alteraciones neuronales y gliales en etapas avanzadas de la enfemedad de Alzheimer con abundantes depósitos cerebrales de beta amiloide, aunque hay pocos datos de cambios tempranos que podrían contribuir al desarrollo de la enfermedad. Evaluamos alteraciones morfológicas neuronales y gliales, y cambios cognitivos y emocionales tempranos en ratones transgénicos PDAPP-J20 (Tg), portadores del gen humano de APP (amyloid precursor protein) mutado, a los 5 meses de edad, aún sin depósitos amiloides en el hipocampo y con niveles bajos de péptidos amiloides cerebrales. Mediante inmunohistoquímica para NeuN, los Tg presentaron menor número de neuronas piramidales y granulares en el hipocampo, junto con un menor volumen de la estructura, en comparación con los controles no transgénicos. La neurogénesis se encontró afectada, evidenciada por reducido número de neuronas DCX+ en el giro dentado. En la región CA3, hubo una menor densidad de sinaptofisina sugiriendo alteraciones sinápticas entre neuronas granulares y piramidales, sin cambios en la densidad de espinas dendríticas en CA1. Utilizando microscopía confocal, observamos una disminución del número de astrocitos GFAP+ con una reducción de la complejidad celular, sugiriendo atrofia glial. Se detectó un déficit cognitivo (reconocimiento de localización novedosa de un objeto) y un aumento de la ansiedad (campo abierto) en los Tg, con aumento en los núcleos c-Fos+ en amígdala, evidenciando el papel de la emocionalidad en los inicios de la enfermedad. El estudio de las alteraciones iniciales en la enfermedad amiloide podría contribuir al desarrollo de métodos de diagnóstico temprano y de terapéutica preventiva.

Although there is strong evidence about neuronal and glial disturbances at advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, less attention has been directed to early, pre-amyloid changes that could contribute to the progression of the disease. We evaluated neuronal and glial morphological changes and behavioral disturbances in PDAPP-J20 transgenic (Tg) mice, carrying mutated human APP gene (amyloid precursor protein), at 5 months of age, before brain amyloid deposition occurs. Using NeuN immunohistochemistry we found decreased numbers of pyramidal and granular neurons in the hippocampus associated with a reduction of hippocampal volume in Tg mice compared with controls. Neurogenesis was impaired, evidenced by means of DCX immunohistochemistry in the dentate gyrus. In the CA3 region we found a decreased density of synaptophysin, suggesting synaptic disturbance, but no changes were found in CA1 synaptic spine density. Using confocal microscopy we observed decreased number and cell complexity of GFAP+ astrocytes, indicating potential glial atrophy. Cognitive impairment (novel location recognition test) and increased anxiety (open field) were detected in Tg mice, associated with more c-Fos+ nuclei in the amygdala, possibly indicating a role for emotionality in early stages of the disease. The study of early alterations in the course of amyloid pathology could contribute to the development of diagnostic and preventive strategies.

Indicador de sustentabilidade dos agroecossistemas: estudo de caso em áreas de cultivo de milho / Sustainability indicator of agroecosystems: a case study in areas of maize cultivation

O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar a eficiência energética de sistemas de produção de milho convencional e orgânico em unidades produtivas do Extremo Oeste Catarinense. Os resultados do estudo de caso apontam que a produção dos híbridos transgênicos e convencionais tem uso intensivo de insumos, alcançando maior produtividade que o sistema orgânico. A conversão dos insumos em energia demonstra a baixa de eficiência energética. Com diferentes níveis de mecanização e adoção de tecnologia, o principal fator responsável pelas entradas energéticas é o uso de adubos nitrogenados de síntese química. As áreas com sistemas de produção orgânica apresentam maior eficiência energética, sendo conduzidas em pequena escala e obtendo menor produtividade.

The aim of this paper is to analyze the energy efficiency of conventional and organic maize production systems in production units of Far West region of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The results of case study showed that the production of conventional and transgenic hybrids has intensive use of inputs and achieve greater productivity compared with the organic system. The conversion of inputs into energy showed low energy efficiency. With different levels of mechanization and technology adoption, the main factor responsible for the input energy is the use of nitrogen fertilizers chemical synthesis. The areas with organic production systems present higher energy efficient, being conducted only on a small scale and achieving average productivity.

STUDY OF GENE FLOW FROM GM COTTON (Gossypium hirsutum) VARIETIES IN "EL ESPINAL" (TOLIMA, COLOMBIA) / Estudio del flujo de genes desde variedades GM de algodón (Gossypium hirsutum) en El Espinal (Tolima, Colombia)

In 2009, 4088 hectares of genetically modified (GM) cotton were planted in Tolima (Colombia), however there is some uncertainty about containment measures needed to prevent the flow of pollen and seed from regulated GM fields into adjacent fields. In this study, the gene flow from GM cotton varieties to conventional or feral cotton plants via seed and pollen was evaluated. ImmunostripTM, PCR and ELISA assays were used to detect gene flow. Fifty six refuges, 27 fields with conventional cotton and four feral individuals of the enterprise "Remolinos Inc." located in El Espinal (Tolima) were analyzed in the first half of 2010. The results indicated seed mediated gene flow in 45 refuges (80.4 %) and 26 fields with conventional cotton (96 %), besides pollen mediated gene flow in one field with conventional cotton and nine refuges. All fields cultivated with conventional cotton showed gene flow from GM cotton. Two refuges and two feral individuals did not reveal gene flow from GM cotton.

En el 2009 se plantaron 4088 hectáreas de algodón genéticamente modificado en el departamento de Tolima (Colombia), sin embargo, hay ciertas incertidumbres acerca de las medidas de contención necesarias para impedir el movimiento de polen y semillas desde los campos GM regulados, hacia los campos adyacentes de cultivos convencionales. En este estudio se evaluó el flujo de genes mediado por polen y semillas desde variedades GM hacia variedades convencionales o individuos ferales, en el cultivo del algodón. Para detectar el flujo de genes se utilizaron ImmunostripTM, PCR y ELISA. Cincuenta y seis refugios, 27 campos con algodón convencional y cuatro individuos ferales de la empresa "Remolinos S.A." localizada en El Espinal (Tolima) fueron analizados en el primer semestre de 2010. Los resultados indicaron presencia de plantas GM en 45 refugios (80,4 %) y 26 campos de algodón convencional (96 %), además de un flujo génico mediado por polen en un campo de algodón convencional y nueve refugios. En todos los campos cultivados con algodón convencional se evidenció flujo de genes desde algodón GM. Solo en dos refugios y en dos individuos ferales no se evidenció flujo de genes desde algodón GM.

[Morphological analysis of the hippocampal region associated with an innate behaviour task in the transgenic mouse model (3xTg-AD) for Alzheimer disease]. / Análisis morfológico de la región del hipocampo asociado a una tarea conductual innata en el modelo de ratón transgénico (3xTg-AD) para la enfermedad de Alzheimer.

INTRODUCTION: Different animal models for Alzheimer disease (AD) have been designed to support the hypothesis that the neurodegeneration (loss of neurons and synapses with reactive gliosis) associated with Aß and tau deposition in these models is similar to that in the human brain. These alterations produce functional changes beginning with decreased ability to carry out daily and social life activities, memory loss, and neuropsychiatric disorders in general. Neuronal alteration plays an important role in early stages of the disease, especially in the CA1 area of hippocampus in both human and animal models. METHODS: Two groups (WT and 3xTg-AD) of 11-month-old female mice were used in a behavioural analysis (nest building) and a morphometric analysis of the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus. RESULTS: The 3xTg-AD mice showed a 50% reduction in nest quality associated with a significant increase in damaged neurons in the CA1 hippocampal area (26%±6%, P<.05) compared to the WT group. CONCLUSIONS: The decreased ability to carry out activities of daily living (humans) or nest building (3xTg-AD mice) is related to the neuronal alterations observed in AD. These alterations are controlled by the hippocampus. Post-mortem analyses of the human hippocampus, and the CA1 region in 3xTg-AD mice, show that these areas are associated with alterations in the deposition of Aß and tau proteins, which start accumulating in the early stages of AD.

Efeito de subdoses de glyphosate sobre a germinação de sementes das cultivares de soja RR e convecional / Effect of subdoses glyphosate on the germination of seeds of soybean cultivars RR and conventional

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade de sementes das duas cultivares de soja (CD-216 e CD-212RR), submetidas à subdoses de glyphosate (1,3; 2,6; 5,3 e 11,5 g e. a. ha-1). O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Fisiologoa Vegetal da Uniderp, município de Dourados/MS, em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. As sementes foram embebidas nas diferentes subdoses de glyphosate por quarenta minutos. Após a embebição, avaliaram-se os seguintes parâmetros oito dias após embebição: % germinação, massa seca de plântula, comprimento de radícula e parte aérea. Sementes de ambas cultivares (CD-212RR e CD-216) reduzem o percentual de germinação, com o aumento da concentração de glyphosate na embebição, sendo a cultivar CD-216 mais sensível ao herbicida.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the quality of seeds of two soybean cultivars CD-216 and CD-212RR, under subdoses of glyphosate (1,3; 2,6; 5,3 and 11,5 g e.a.ha-1). The experiments carried out in Laboratory Fisiologoa Plant in the Uniderp, city of Dourados/MS. The experimental design used was in blocks entirely at random, with four repetitions. After soaking, evaluated the following parameters eight days after imbibition: % germination, seedling dry weight, length of root and shoot. Seeds of both cultivars (CD-212RR and CD216) reduce the percentage of germination, with the increasing of glyphosate concentration in soaling, and CD-216 was more sensible to herbicide.

Interação entre transgênicos (Bt) e inseticidas no controle de pragas-chave em híbridos de milho-safrinha / Interaction between transgenics and insecticides in the control of key pests on off-season maize hybrids

A cultura do milho é atacada por diversos lepidópteros-praga. Recentemente, foi liberada no Brasil a comercialização de híbridos de milho Bt, integrando em seu genoma o gene Cry1Ab, proveniente de Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, que codifica a proteína com efeito tóxico sobre insetos da ordem Lepidooptera. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, em condições de campo, a eficácia de híbridos de milho convencionais e transgênicos para o controle de pragas, submetidos ou não à pulverização com inseticidas. O ensaio foi realizado em área experimental do Polo Apta Centro Norte, em Pindorama, Estado de São Paulo. Foram avaliados cinco híbridos de milho convencionais em comparação com os respectivos híbridos isogênicos Bt. A avaliação dos danos visuais de Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) foi realizada a cada 10 dias, em 20 plantas das duas linhas centrais da parcela, e para Helicoverpa zea (Bod.) e Diatraea saccharalis (Fab.) na pré-colheita. As interações entre os híbridos e a transgenia ocorreram em todas as avaliações a partir dos 40 dia após emergência (DAE). Os híbridos transgênicos (Bt) avaliados apresentaram as menores notas de danos visuais de S. frugiperda em todas as avaliações. A transgenia também proporcionou menor percentagem de espigas danificadas por H. zea e S. frugiperda e de colmos atacados por D. saccharalis. Conclui-se que a transgenia proporciona redução nos danos visuais ocasionados pelas pragas, embora apresente desempenho diferente entre os híbridos.

Diverse lepidopteran pests attack the maize crop. The commercialization of hybrids of transgenic Bt maize, integrating in its genome the gene Cry1Ab, from Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, which codifies the protein with toxic effect on insects of the Lepidoptera order, has been recently introduced in Brazil. The objective of this work was to evaluate, under field conditions, the effectiveness of conventional and transgenic maize hybrids for the control of pests, sprayed or not with insecticides. The assay was carried out in an experimental area of the Polo Apta Centro Norte, in Pindorama, São Paulo State, Brazil. Five conventional maize hybrids were evaluated in comparison with the respective isogenic Bt hybrids. The evaluation was carried out every 10 days, in 20 plants of the 2 central lines of the parcel for Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) damage. For damages of Helicoverpa zea (Bod.) and Diatraea saccharalis (Fab.) the evaluations were carried out in the pre-harvest. The interactions between the hybrids and the transgeny occurred in all evaluations starting at the 40th day after emergence (DAE). The Bt hybrids evaluated presented the lowest scores for visual S. frugiperda damages in all the evaluations. The transgenic maize also provided the lowest percentage of cobs damaged by H. zea and S. frugiperda, and of stalks attacked by D. saccharalis. In conclusion, the transgenic maize provided reduction in visual damages caused by the pests, however, it presented different performance among the hybrids.

Efecto de la dosis genética sobre el fenotipo clínico en enfermedades poliglutamínicas / Genetic Dose Effect on Clinical Phenotype in Polyglutamine Diseases

Las enfermedades poliglutamínicas constituyen un grupo de patologías humanas causadas por la expansión de secuencias repetitivas de CAG En las familias afectadas, la edad de inicio de la enfermedad es altamente variable, lo cual se debe en su mayor parte al número de repeticiones de CAG en los alelos patológicos Ha sido sugerida la existencia de otros factores genéticos con efecto modificador sobre la edad inicio, entre los que se encuentra la dosis genética Aquí fue realizada una revisión de toda la evidencia disponible acerca del efecto fenotípico de la homocigosis para alelos patológicos en enfermedades poliglutamínicas A pesar de la muy baja frecuencia de casos homocigóticos para estas enfermedades en la población humana, la evidencia apoya un modelo según el cual en los homocigóticos los alelos patológicos tienen un efecto aditivo que agrava la presentación clínica Los estudios realizados en animales modelos para estas enfermedades corroboran esta afirmación...(AU)

Polyglutamine disorders constitute a group of human diseases caused by the expansion of repetitive sequences of the CAG. In affected families, the age at onset of the disease is highly variable, and most of it is due to the CAG repeat number in the pathological alleles Genetic factors with modifiable effect on the age at onset was suggested one of those is the genetic dose A review of the whole available evidence on the phenotype effect of the homozygosis state for pathologic alleles in polyglutamine disorders was analyzed. In spite of the very low frequency of homozygous cases for these disorders in human population, the results showed that in the homozygous individuals the pathologic alleles have an additive effect that increases the severity of the clinical presentation, these results were obtained through the studies that were carried out in a sample of animals...(AU)

Aspectos éticos del entendimiento público de la biotecnología / Etical points off view of biotechnology's public perception / Aspectos éticos do entendimento público da biotecnologia

La práctica del control social de la biotecnología demanda salidas bases de naturaleza ética a fin de racionalizar la aplicación de los principios científicos y permitir beneficios para la sociedad en general. Mientras el uso de la tecnología recombinante en productos médicos y farmacéuticos tiene gran aceptación por parte de la sociedad, gracias a la evidente mejora causada por la cura de enfermedades, no está tan claro para el consumidor el valor real de la investigación genética para mejorar la calidad de los alimentos. Es grande la demanda por más información científica para el público a efectos de movilizar la sociedad hacia esclarecimientos en el pensamiento biotecnológico.

The practice of biotechnological social control demands ethical bases in order to rationalize the application of scientific principles and for allowing benefits to society. While the use of recombinant technology in pharmaceutical and medical products has great acceptance by society, as consequence of the evident improvement caused by the cure of diseases, the consumer hasn’t a clear idea of the real value of genetic research to improve food quality. There is a great demand for more scientific information by the public with the purpose of mobilizing society toward clarifications in the future biotechnological thought.

A prática do controle social da biotecnologia exige sólidas bases de natureza ética a fim de racionalizar a aplicação dos princípios científicos e permitir benefícios para a sociedade em geral. Enquanto que o uso da tecnologia recombinante nos produtos médicos e farmacêuticos tem grande aceitação por parte da sociedade, graças a evidente melhora causada pela cura de enfermidades, não está tão claro para o consumidor o valor real da pesquisa genética para melhorar a qualidade dos alimentos. A demanda por mais informação científica para o público, é enorme, com a conseqüência de mobilizar a sociedade para esclarecimentos no pensamento biotecnológico.