Monitoring and predicting corn grain quality on the transport and post-harvest operations in storage units using sensors and machine learning models.

Monitoring the intergranular variables of corn grain mass during the transportation, drying, and storage stages it possible to predict and avoid potential grain quality losses. For monitoring the grain mass along the transport, a probe system with temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide sensors was developed to determine the equilibrium moisture content and the respiration of the grain mass. These same variables were monitored during storage. At drying process, the drying air and grain mass temperatures, as well as the relative humidity, were monitored. For the prediction of the physical and physical-chemical quality of the grains, the results obtained from the monitoring were used as input data for the multiple linear regression, artificial neural networks, decision tree, and random forest models. A Pearson correlation was applied to verify the relationship between the monitored and predicted variables. From the results obtained, we verified that the intergranular relative humidity altered the equilibrium moisture content of the grains, contributing to the increased respiration and hence dry matter losses along the transport. At this stage, the artificial neural network model was the most indicated to predict the electrical conductivity, apparent specific mass, and germination. The random forest model satisfactorily estimated the dry matter loss. During drying, the air temperature caused volumetric contraction and thermal damage to the grains, increasing the electric conductivity index. Artificial neural network and random forest models were the most suitable for predicting the quality of dry grains. During storage, the environmental conditions altered the moisture contents causing a reduction in the apparent specific mass, germination, and crude protein, crude fiber, and fat contents. Artificial neural network and random forest were the best predictors of moisture content and germination. However, the random forest model was the best predictor of apparent specific mass, electrical conductivity, and starch content of stored grains.

Prenatal androgenization (2D:4D) predictions of tennis match-play success in junior players: A search for physiological explanations.

AIM: This study aims to investigate the possible association between digit ratio (2D:4D) and match-play success (MPS) in junior tennis players. In addition, we consider the possible explanatory pathways of these associations in relation to psychological, strength, power, and hormonal parameters. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study, with a sample comprised of 64 male junior tennis players (11-18 years old). Digit ratio was calculated from direct finger measurements. In addition, we measured the ratio of wins by number of matches played in 5 years of official competition (MPS), handgrip strength (HGS), standing long jump (SLJ), training (in weekly hours), and expertise (number of years in official competition). Salivary testosterone and cortisol levels were measured before and after physical "challenge" tests. RESULTS: The 2D:4D correlated negatively with HGS and SLJ. MPS was also negatively associated with 2D:4D, but was positively correlated to HGS, expertise, training, and self-confidence (SC). Multiple linear regression showed 2D:4D and expertise were associated with MPS (43%-54%). None of the physical, or hormonal variables tested explained the links between 2D:4D and MPS. CONCLUSION: Therefore, the specific fitness components influenced by prenatal androgenization that moderate sports success remain unknown. Future studies should explore the interaction of 2D:4D, with tennis exercises as a challenge to induce hormonal change, the effect of pubertal stage, and the influence of aerobic endurance in determining MPS.

Thick layer drying and storage of rice grain cultivars in silo-dryer-aerator: Quality evaluation at low drying temperature.

Drying rice in a single layer in a silo-dryer-aerator allows uniform drying. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical, physicochemical, and morphological quality of rice grain cultivars (IRGA 424, BRS Pampeira, and Guri INTA) in the lower (initial time) and upper (final time) layers in a silo-dryer-aerator, employing single-layer loading at low temperatures, using the methods of near-infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and multivariate statistical analysis. Drying rice in silo-dryer-aerator attenuated the moisture diffusivity in the grains, minimizing its effects on the physical, physicochemical, and morphological properties of the grains. However, the physicochemical constituents and morphology of starch were preserved by the low drying temperatures, mainly in the lower layers throughout the 2-month drying. The rice grains of the Guri INTA and BRS Pampeira cultivars were the most resistant to drying and showed greater uniformity on the final quality.

Providing baseline data for conservation-Heart rate monitoring in captive scimitar-horned oryx.

Heart rate biologging has been successfully used to study wildlife responses to natural and human-caused stressors (e.g., hunting, landscape of fear). Although rarely deployed to inform conservation, heart rate biologging may be particularly valuable for assessing success in wildlife reintroductions. We conducted a case study for testing and validating the use of subcutaneous heart rate monitors in eight captive scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah), a once-extinct species that is currently being restored to the wild. We evaluated biologger safety and accuracy while collecting long-term baseline data and assessing factors explaining variation in heart rate. None of the biologgers were rejected after implantation, with successful data capture for 16-21 months. Heart rate detection accuracy was high (83%-99%) for six of the individuals with left lateral placement of the biologgers. We excluded data from two individuals with a right lateral placement because accuracies were below 60%. Average heart rate for the six scimitar-horned oryx was 60.3 ± 12.7 bpm, and varied by about 12 bpm between individuals, with a minimum of 31 bpm and a maximum of 188 bpm across individuals. Scimitar-horned oryx displayed distinct circadian rhythms in heart rate and activity. Heart rate and activity were low early in the morning and peaked near dusk. Circadian rhythm in heart rate and activity were relatively unchanged across season, but hourly averages for heart rate and activity were higher in spring and summer, respectively. Variation in hourly heart rate averages was best explained by a combination of activity, hour, astronomical season, ambient temperature, and an interaction term for hour and season. Increases in activity appeared to result in the largest changes in heart rate. We concluded that biologgers are safe and accurate and can be deployed in free-ranging and reintroduced scimitar-horned oryx. In addition to current monitoring practices of reintroduced scimitar-horned oryx, the resulting biologging data could significantly aid in 1) evaluating care and management action prior to release, 2) characterizing different animal personalities and how these might affect reintroduction outcomes for individual animals, and 3) identifying stressors after release to determine their timing, duration, and impact on released animals. Heart rate monitoring in released scimitar-horned oryx may also aid in advancing our knowledge about how desert ungulates adapt to extreme environmental variation in their habitats (e.g., heat, drought).

The effectiveness of insulin therapy in the functional and morphological recovery of leydig cells in rats submitted to Diabetes mellitus

The effects of systemic insulin administration at different concentrations on the testicular tissue of diabetic adult rats, induced by streptozotocin, are evaluated by the morphological analysis of spermatogenic process. Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into 1) Control Group: they received citrate buffer, by intraperitoneal injection; 2) Diabetic Group: induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg. kg-1 of body weight); 3) Insulin 50%: induced diabetes treated with half of standard dosage of insulin; 4) Insulin 100%: induced diabetes treated with standard dose of insulin. After eight weeks, animals were weighted and anesthetized; testicles were removed and processed in resin. Body and testicular weight of diabetic rats decreased when compared to that of control. Parameters increased with insulin therapy. Testosterone levels were low in diabetic animals but rates recovered after insulin therapy. Nuclear diameter and volume of Leydig cells decreased in diabetic rats although they significantly increased after insulin therapy. Results showed that the administration of insulin in diabetic rats promoted a protective effect of testicular parenchyma, enhancing efficient recovery on testosterone levels and increase in daily sperm production.

Inside out: heart rate monitoring to advance the welfare and conservation of maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus).

Anthropogenic change is a major threat to individual species and biodiversity. Yet the behavioral and physiological responses of animals to these changes remain understudied. This is due to the technological challenges in assessing these effects in situ. Using captive maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus, n = 6) as a model, we deployed implantable biologgers and collected physiological data on heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) over a 1-year period. To test for links between HR and changes in the environment we analysed HR daily rhythms and responses to potential stressors (e.g. physical restraint, change in housing conditions, short-distance transportation and unfamiliar human presence). The 2-min HR averages ranged from 33 to 250 bpm, with an overall rest average of 73 bpm and a maximum of 296 bpm. On average, HRV was higher in females (227 ± 51 ms) than in males (151 ± 51 ms). As expected, HR increased at dusk and night when animals were more active and in response to stressors. Sudden decreases in HR were observed during transportation in three wolves, suggestive of fear bradycardia. We provide the first non-anesthetic HR values for the species and confirm that behaviour does not always reflect the shifts in autonomic tone in response to perceived threats. Because strong HR responses often were not revealed by observable changes in behaviour, our findings suggest that the number and variety of stressors in ex situ or in situ environments for maned wolves and most wildlife species may be underestimated. Our study also shows that integrating biologging with behavioral observations can provide vital information to guide captive management. Similar technology can be used to advance in situ research for developing more effective welfare, management and conservation plans for the species.

Biomolecular engineering of antidehydroepiandrosterone antibodies: a new perspective in cancer diagnosis and treatment using single-chain antibody variable fragment.

AIM: To develop a monoclonal antibody against dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and miniaturize it, generating a single-chain antibody variable fragment (scFv) against DHEA as an adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) marker. MATERIAL & METHODS: DHEA conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin was used as an immunogen to obtain anti-DHEA hybridomas. Variable fragments were cloned from hybridoma 5B7 total RNA, and used to detect DHEA in normal adrenal tissue and ACC cells. RESULTS: IgM monoclonal antibody was highly specific, and the recombinant scFv preserved parental antibody characteristics, allowing tissue localization of DHEA. CONCLUSION: Undefined small lesions are challenges for clinicians and impact clinical adrenocortical tumor management. Generating an anti-DHEA scFv facilitates development of imaging tests for early diagnosis of pediatric ACC.

Short-term thyroid hormone excess affects the heart but does not affect adrenal activity in rats.

BACKGROUND: Hyperthyroidism (Hy) exerts a broad range of influences on a variety of physiological parameters. Its disruptive effect on cardiovascular system is one of its most remarkable impacts. Moreover, Hy has been clinically associated with stress - induced hyperactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the impact of short-term Hy on cardiac performance and adrenal activity of rats. METHODS: Induction of Hy in Wistar rats through injections of T3 (150 µg/kg) for 10 days (hyperthyroid group - HG) or vehicle (control group). The cardiovascular performance was evaluated by: echocardiography (ECHO); heart weight/body weight (mg/gr) ratio; contractility of isolated papillary muscles (IPM) and direct measurement of blood pressures. Adrenal activity was evaluated by adrenal weight/body weight (mg/gr) ratio and 24-hour fecal corticosterone (FC) levels on the, 5th and 10th days of T3 treatment. RESULTS: In HG, the ECHO showed reduction of the End Systolic and End Diastolic Volumes, Ejection, Total Diastolic and Isovolumic Relaxation Times, Diastolic and Systolic Areas and E/A ratio. Heart Rate, Ejection Fraction and Cardiac Output increased. The heart weight/body weight ratio was higher. Similarly, in IPM, the maximum rate of force decay during relaxation was higher in all extracellular calcium concentrations. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels were higher. (p ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, there was no difference in the adrenal weight/body weight ratio or in the 24-hour FC levels. CONCLUSIONS: Hy induces positive inotropic, chronotropic and lusitropic effects on the heart by direct effects of T3 and increases SBP. Those alterations are not correlated with changes in the adrenal activity.

Excesso de Hormônio Tireoidiano em Curto Prazo Afeta o Coração, mas não Afeta a Atividade Adrenal em Ratos / Short-Term Thyroid Hormone Excess Affects the Heart but Does not Affect Adrenal Activity in Rats

Fundamento: O hipertireoidismo (Hi) exerce um amplo leque de influências em diversos parâmetros fisiológicos. Seu efeito perturbador sobre o sistema cardiovascular é um de seus impactos mais importantes. Além disso, o Hi foi clinicamente associado com o estresse induzido pela hiperativação do eixo hipotalâmico-pituitário-adrenal. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto do Hi de curto prazo sobre o desempenho cardíaco e a atividade adrenal de ratos. Métodos: A indução de Hi em ratos Wistar através de injeções de T3 (150 μg/kg) por 10 dias (grupo com hipertireoidismo - GH) ou veículo (grupo controle). O desempenho cardiovascular foi avaliado por: ecocardiograma (ECO); razão peso do coração/peso corporal (mg/gr); contratilidade de músculos papilares isolados (MPI) e mensuração direta da pressão arterial. A atividade adrenal foi avaliada pela razão peso adrenal/ peso corporal (mg/gr) e níveis de 24 horas de corticosterona fecal (CF) no 1º, 5º e 10º dias de tratamento com T3. Resultados: No GH, o ECO mostrou redução dos Volumes Finais Sistólico e Diastólico, Tempos de Ejeção, Relaxamento Isovolumétrico e Diastólico Total, Áreas Sistólicas e Diastólica e razão E/A. Aumentaram a frequência cardíaca, a fração de ejeção e o débito cardíaco. A razão peso corporal/peso do coração foi maior. Da mesma forma, nos MPI, a taxa máxima de degradação da força durante o relaxamento foi maior em todas as concentrações extracelulares de cálcio. Os níveis de pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) foram maiores. (p ≤ 0,05). Por outro lado, não houve diferença na razão peso das adrenais/peso corporal ou níveis de 24 horas de CF. ...

Background: Hyperthyroidism (Hy) exerts a broad range of influences on a variety of physiological parameters. Its disruptive effect on cardiovascular system is one of its most remarkable impacts. Moreover, Hy has been clinically associated with stress - induced hyperactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Objective: Evaluate the impact of short-term Hy on cardiac performance and adrenal activity of rats. Methods: Induction of Hy in Wistar rats through injections of T3 (150 µg/kg) for 10 days (hyperthyroid group - HG) or vehicle (control group). The cardiovascular performance was evaluated by: echocardiography (ECHO); heart weight/body weight (mg/gr) ratio; contractility of isolated papillary muscles (IPM) and direct measurement of blood pressures. Adrenal activity was evaluated by adrenal weight/body weight (mg/gr) ratio and 24-hour fecal corticosterone (FC) levels on the, 5th and 10th days of T3 treatment. Results: In HG, the ECHO showed reduction of the End Systolic and End Diastolic Volumes, Ejection, Total Diastolic and Isovolumic Relaxation Times, Diastolic and Systolic Areas and E/A ratio. Heart Rate, Ejection Fraction and Cardiac Output increased. The heart weight/body weight ratio was higher. Similarly, in IPM, the maximum rate of force decay during relaxation was higher in all extracellular calcium concentrations. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels were higher. (p ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, there was no difference in the adrenal weight/body weight ratio or in the 24-hour FC levels. Conclusions: Hy induces positive inotropic, chronotropic and lusitropic effects on the heart by direct effects of T3 and increases SBP. Those alterations are not correlated with changes in the adrenal activity. .

Pododermatite séptica em bovinos: evolução clínica da fase inicial / Bovine septic podermatitis: clinial evolution of the early stage

Esse estudo objetivou caracterizar clinicamente a fase inicial da pododermatite séptica em bovinos. Foram utilizadas 30 fêmeas bovinas, Girolando, de propriedades rurais do Estado de Goiás, submetidas às mesmas condições de manejo. Após o diagnóstico, foram submetidas a exame clínico específico dos dígitos, diariamente, por um período de quinze dias. Considerou-se o término da fase inicial a presença de fístula no espaço interdigital ou quando se completava o período de observação. Foram identificados o tipo de solo e o período do ano (chuvoso e seco). Durante a evolução da doença, o edema e a sensibilidade intensificaram de forma progressiva. Em 73,33% dos casos, a enfermidade ocorreu no membro pélvico. Em 50,00% observou-se edema moderado e 26,67%, edema acentuado, considerando ambos os membros. A fistulação ocorreu em 83,33% animais doentes até o sexto dia, em 10% entre o sétimo e o décimo primeiro dia e em 6,67% não ocorreu. As áreas de fistulação ocorreram no ponto médio do espaço interdigital em 63,33%; na região dorsal do espaço interdigital em 16,67% e no cório-coronário da região abaxial do estojo córneo em 10,00% e na porção palmar/ plantar entre os talões em 3,33% dos casos. A pododermatite séptica apresentou os mesmos sinais clínicos nas propriedades avaliadas e nos diferentes períodos do ano, variando apenas o tempo e o local de fistulação. O tempo médio transcorrido entre o diagnóstico e o a fistulação foi de cinco dias, sendo que o local de maior ocorrência foi o ponto médio do espaço interdigital.

This study aimed to describe the clinical signs of the initial phase of septic pododermatitis in thirty female girolando bovines under the same handling care from different farms in State of Goiás. Following the diagnosis, they were submitted to daily clinical examination of the hoofs during fifteen days. It was considered as the end of the initial phase the presence of fistula in interdigital space or when the observation time over. It was observed the farm’s soil type and the period of the year (if rainy and dryness). During the disease evolution, edema and pain increased in progressive order until skin disruption and fistula formation. In 73,33%, the illness envolved the hind limbs. In 50,00% it was observed moderate edema and 26,67% intense edema in both limbs. Fistula occurred in 83,33% ill animals until sixth day, in 10% between seventh and eleventh days and in 6,67% of the cases it was’t observed. Fistulation areas were middle point of interdigital space in 63,33%; dorsal region of interdigital space in 16,67% and in coronary corium of the abaxial region of the hoof in 10,00% and in palmar/plantar region between coronary cushion in 3,33% of cases. The septic pododermatitis showed the same clinical signs in farms considered in this study and in different periods of the year, differing in time and fistula site. The average time from diagnosis and fistulation was five days. The more commom site was the middle point of the interdigital space.

Caracterização anatomopatológica da inflamação do espaço interdigital em fêmeas bovinas da raça Girolando

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo determinar as características histopatológicas da pele do espaço interdigital, em cincofêmeas bovinas da raça Girolando, apresentando inflamação seguida de fistulação. O experimento foi realizado no período denovembro de 1998 a dezembro de 1999, na Escola de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Goiás (EV/UFG), utilizandobovinos procedentes de três propriedades rurais do estado de Goiás, criados extensivamente. Os animais foram clinicamenteexaminados nas propriedades de origem, para a identificação do estágio da doença e, em seguida, encaminhados para olocal do experimento. Ao detectar a presença de fístula, as observações clínicas foram interrompidas e, aproximadamente 12horas após realizou-se a biópsia na pele do espaço interdigital dos membros doentes e saudáveis. As técnicas utilizadas nacoloração dos fragmentos para a histopatologia foram: hematoxilina e eosina, vermelho congo, azul de toluidina modificado,Gomori, Gram e Ácido Periódico de Schiff (PAS) modificado. A biópsia do espaço interdigital apresentou na epiderme presençade glóbulos de queratina, acantose e espongiose. Na derme foi observado infiltrado inflamatório predominantementemononuclear com tendência a formar granuloma e pouca quantidade de mastócitos, não sendo visualizada a presença defungos. Os achados analisados em conjunto mostram uma inflamação localizada, que é hi

Pesticide residues in rivers of a Brazilian Rain Forest Reserve: assessing potential concern for effects on aquatic life and human health.

Pesticide residues in water, sediment, and fish samples from rivers of a Brazilian Rain Forest Reserve were measured in November 1998, March 1999, and January 2000. Concentrations of the individual pesticides were compared to ecotoxicological benchmarks based on acute toxicity tests, and to regulatory guidelines to determine the potential concern for effects on aquatic life and human health. Pesticides and metabolites were detected at all 7 sites surveyed. Residues of a total of 27 pesticides or metabolites were found in water and/or sediment samples and fish have accumulated some of the most persistent of these residues. Measured concentrations in water and sediment indicated concern for preservation of aquatic fauna. Several pesticides in water were above levels for drinking water recommended by Brazilian and/or European Union authorities, indicating also a concern for human health.

Avaliaçäo fisico-química e microbiológica das soluçöes desinfetantes de sulfato de cobre a 5 por cento e cloridrato de polihexametileno biguanida a 1 por cento em pedilúvio para bovinos / Evaluation physical-chemistries and microbiology of the treatment with desinfections solutions as copper sulphate to 5 percent and chloridrate of polihexametilen biguanide at 1 percent in footbath for bovines

O propósito deste estudo foi avaliar aspectos físico-químicos e microbiológicos do sulfato de cobre a 5 por cento e cloridrato de polihexametileno biguanida (P.H.M.B.) a 1 por cento como soluçöes desinfetantes em pedilúvio para tratamento de diversas afecçöes podais em bovinos associado a procedimentos cirúrgicos e à antibioticoterapia parenteral. As análises físico-químicas constaram da determinaçäo do pH e da concentraçäo do cobre e cloridrato de polihexametileno biguanida (P.H.M.B.). As análises microbiológicas realizadas foram a contagem de microorganismos aeróbios ou facultativos mesófilos e anaeróbios mesófilos. Os resultados obtidos permitem afirmar que as características físico-químicas das duas soluçöes mantiveram-se praticamente constantes e que a soluçäo de PHMB a 1 por cento apresentou menores contagens de microorganismos aeróbios ou facultativos mesófilos e anaeróbios mesófilos do que a soluçäo de sulfato de cobre a 5 por cento.