Archaeobotanical evidence supports indigenous cucurbit long-term use in the Mesoamerican Neotropics.

The squash family (Cucurbitaceae) contains some of the most important crops cultivated worldwide and has played an important ecological, economic, and cultural role for millennia. In the American tropics, squashes were among the first cultivated crop species, but little is known about how their domestication unfolded. Here, we employ direct radiocarbon dating and morphological analyses of desiccated cucurbit seeds, rinds, and stems from El Gigante Rockshelter in Honduras to reconstruct human practices of selection and cultivation of Lagenaria siceraria, Cucurbita pepo, and Cucurbita moschata. Direct radiocarbon dating indicates that humans started using Lagenaria and wild Cucurbita starting ~ 10,950 calendar years before present (cal B.P.), primarily as watertight vessels and possibly as cooking and drinking containers. A rind directly dated to 11,150-10,765 cal B.P. represents the oldest known bottle gourd in the Americas. Domesticated C. moschata subsequently appeared ~ 4035 cal B.P., followed by domesticated C. pepo ~ 2190 cal B.P. associated with increasing evidence for their use as food crops. Multivariate statistical analysis of seed size and shape show that the archaeological C. pepo assemblage exhibits significant variability, representing at least three varieties: one similar to present-day zucchini, another like present-day vegetable marrow, and a native cultivar without modern analogs. Our archaeobotanical data supports the hypothesis that Indigenous cucurbit use started in the Early Holocene, and that agricultural complexity during the Late Holocene involved selective breeding that encouraged crop diversification.

Performance of non-formalin fixed paraffin embedded samples in hybrid capture and amplicon next-generation sequencing panels.

BACKGROUND: Genomic profiling using next-generation sequencing (NGS) is fundamental for driving prognostic and therapy in cancer. Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue is the widely used material, whereas non-FFPE may represent an alternative. However, studies comparing the NGS performance of non-FFPE materials to FFPE are still lacking in the literature. The objective of this study was to characterize in non-FFPE preparations the nucleic acid yield and NGS performance on both a capture-based and an amplicon-based NGS platform. NGS quality metrics obtained from non-FFPE preparations were compared to FFPE. METHODS: We analyzed the cellularity and nucleic acid yield in 111 tumors from non-FFPE preparations. In addition, comprehensive hybrid capture panel sequencing metrics obtained from DNA and RNA libraries were compared between independent non-FFPE and FFPE samples. A paired comparison between non-FFPE and FFPE samples was performed to analyze concordance in mutant allele detection using an amplicon panel. RESULTS: The mean target coverage from DNA libraries was 2× higher in non-FFPE samples than in FFPE. The detection of exogenous DNA was 2.5× higher in non-FFPE than in FFPE. Conversely, a lower performance was observed in non-FFPE RNA libraries in comparison to FFPE DNA libraries with no impact in minimum standard cutoffs. The variant allele detection in non-FFPE was found to be comparable to that of FFPE tumor samples in matched samples. CONCLUSIONS: Non-FFPE was demonstrated to be a suitable material for DNA and RNA library preparations using a comprehensive NGS panel. This is the first study reporting library quality metrics according to the TSO500 analysis pipeline.

Carotenogénesis y pigmentos en Cucurbita spp

Los carotenoides son pigmentos orgánicos que el organismo no puede sintetizar y deben ser suministrados en la dieta humana. Este artículo de revisión tiene por objetivo abordar la ruta carotenogénica y los pigmentos predominantes en la pulpa de cucurbitáceas, siendo una de las hortalizas con mayor contenido de carotenoides, de tonalidades amarillo y naranja. Se recopiló literatura relevante sobre la temática proveniente de libros y de artículos científicos, identificando que el género Cucurbita, por ser de naturaleza alógama, expresa alta variabilidad fenotípica y genotípica, que es afectada por el ambiente y, ello, supone alta variabilidad en la composición de carotenoides del fruto, tanto cuantitativa como cualitativamente. Los carotenoides son los responsables de dar color característico a las flores y a los frutos; los apocarotenoides son conocidos por dar aromas, fragancias y sabores. El almacenamiento y la biosíntesis de los carotenoides se genera en los plastidios, estos pigmentos se pueden sintetizar por la ruta del metileritritol difosfato (MEP) hasta licopeno, donde se bifurca a α-caroteno y ß-caroteno y, posteriormente, mediante hidroxilaciones, se generan las xantofilas. Su importancia en la acumulación de carotenoides en frutos radica en las múltiples funciones y beneficios en plantas, animales y humanos, como fotoreceptores y fotoprotectores de luz, colorantes agroindustriales, antioxidantes, reducción de enfermedades crónicas, precursores de vitamina A, entre otros beneficios, cabe destacar el alto contenido de carotenos totales en cucurbitáceas encontrándose en Cucurbita moschata más de 600 µg/g en genotipos mejorados.

Carotenoids are organic pigments that the body cannot synthesize and must be supplied in the human diet. This review article aims to approach the carotenogenic route and the predominant pigments in the fruits of Cucurbits, as this is one of the vegetables with the highest content of carotenoids of yellow and orange tones. Relevant literature on the subject was collected from scientific books and articles, identifying that the genus Cucurbita, being cross-pollinated in nature, expresses high phenotypic and genotypic variability, which is affected by the environment and, this implies high variability in the carotenoid composition of the fruit, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Carotenoids are responsible for giving characteristic color to flowers and fruits, apocarotenoids are known to give aromas, fragrances, and flavors. The biosynthesis and storage of carotenoids are generated in the plastids, the pathway of methylerythritol diphosphate (MEP) to lycopene can synthesize these pigments where it bifurcates to α-carotene and ß-carotene and later, by hydroxylations, xanthophylls are generated. Its importance in the accumulation of carotenoids in fruits lies in the multiple functions and benefits in plants, animals, and humans as photoreceptors and photoprotectors of light, agroindustrial colorants, antioxidants, reduction of chronic diseases, precursors of vitamin A, among other benefits. Highlighting the high content of total carotenes in Cucurbits, with more than 600 µg / g in Cucurbita moschata found in improved genotypes.

Prototipo de alimento deshidratado con base en harina de auyama enriquecido con fuentes proteicas no convencionales / Prototype of dehydrated food based on butternut squash flour enriched with non-conventional protein sources

RESUMEN Debido al contenido de macronutrientes, micronutrientes y antioxidantes, la ingesta de hortalizas y de legumbres en la dieta puede reducir el riesgo de enfermedades, por tanto, el objetivo de esta investigación fue desarrollar un prototipo de alimento deshidratado con base en harina de auyama (Cucurbita moschata Duchense), enriquecido con fuentes proteicas, provenientes de granos. Se establecieron seis tratamientos empleando nueve materias primas, variando el porcentaje de cada una de ellas, donde la mayor proporción correspondió a la harina de auyama, se realizó un análisis bromatológico para cada materia prima y tratamiento. Posteriormente, se adelantó el análisis de carotenos totales, carbohidratos y calorías; para las variables materia seca (MS), cenizas, grasa, proteína cruda (PC), fibra detergente ácida (FDA) y fibra detergente neutra (FDN), se empleó un análisis de varianza y para la prueba sensorial, se aplicó la prueba Friedman, con 60 jueces. Al emplear los factores de conversión Atwater, los resultados indicaron que los materiales seleccionados para formular un prototipo de alimento deshidratado presentan bajo contenido de fibra detergente neutra (FDN) y fibra detergente ácida (FDA). La prueba de Friedman estableció que el mejor tratamiento para los 60 evaluadores fue el 6 seguido del 1, con la inclusión de harina de auyama del 15 y 20 %, respectivamente. Se concluye que, a partir de la inclusión de harina de hortaliza y de leguminosas es posible obtener un producto deshidratado con alto contenido de macronutrientes.

ABSTRACT Due to the content of macronutrients, micronutrients, and antioxidants, the intake of vegetables and legumes in the diet can reduce the risk of diseases, therefore, the objective of this research was to develop a prototype of dehydrated food based on butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata Duchense) enriched with protein sources from grains. six treatments were established using nine raw materials, varying the percentage of each of them, where the highest proportion corresponded to butternut squash, a bromatological analysis was carried out for each raw material and treatment. Subsequently, the analysis of total carotenoids, carbohydrates, and calories was carried out; for the variables dry matter (DM), ashes, fat, crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF), an analysis of variance was used and for the sensory test the Friedman test was performed with 60 judges. When using the Atwater conversion factors, the results indicated that the materials selected to formulate a dehydrated food prototype have a low content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF). The Friedman test established that the best treatment for the 60 evaluators was 6 followed by 1, with the inclusion of butternut squash at 15 and 20 %, respectively. It is concluded that, from the inclusion of vegetable and legume flour, it is possible to obtain a dehydrated product with a high content of macronutrients.

Development of Dressing-Type Emulsion with Hydrocolloids from Butternut Squash Seed: Effect of Additives on Emulsion Stability.

BACKGROUND: Natural ingredients have been employed to develop food products. METHODS: Hydrocolloids from butternut squash seeds (HBSSs) were extracted with water at pH 3, 7, and 10 and characterized bromatologically and rheologically; then these HBSSs were used to stabilize the dressing-type emulsion by evaluating its physicochemical, rheological, and microstructural properties. RESULTS: Hydrocolloids presented higher protein (from 20.43 to 39.39%) and carbohydrate (from 50.05 to 52.68%) content and rheological properties with a predominant elastic modulus. HBSSs extracted at pH 10 were used for the development of the dressing-type emulsion. The samples were stable during the storage period (15 days), with a good microstructural organization showing non-Newtonian fluid properties with shear-thinning behavior when the pseudoplasticity and the oil droplet size decreased with the addition of HBSS. CONCLUSIONS: Hydrocolloid constituents were detected surrounding the droplets of the emulsions, intensifying the effects of inner droplet interaction due to depletion events and a strong influence on the structure and physical stability. The hydrocolloids used to stabilize the dressing-type emulsions are additively promising in microstructured food design.

Squash root microbiome transplants and metagenomic inspection for in situ arid adaptations.

Arid zones contain a diverse set of microbes capable of survival under dry conditions, some of which can form relationships with plants under drought stress conditions to improve plant health. We studied squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) root microbiome under historically arid and humid sites, both in situ and performing a common garden experiment. Plants were grown in soils from sites with different drought levels, using in situ collected soils as the microbial source. We described and analyzed bacterial diversity by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (N = 48) from the soil, rhizosphere, and endosphere. Proteobacteria were the most abundant phylum present in humid and arid samples, while Actinobacteriota abundance was higher in arid ones. The ß-diversity analyses showed split microbiomes between arid and humid microbiomes, and aridity and soil pH levels could explain it. These differences between humid and arid microbiomes were maintained in the common garden experiment, showing that it is possible to transplant in situ diversity to the greenhouse. We detected a total of 1009 bacterial genera; 199 exclusively associated with roots under arid conditions. By 16S and shotgun metagenomics, we identified dry-associated taxa such as Cellvibrio, Ensifer adhaerens, and Streptomyces flavovariabilis. With shotgun metagenomic sequencing of rhizospheres (N = 6), we identified 2969 protein families in the squash core metagenome and found an increased number of exclusively protein families from arid (924) than humid samples (158). We found arid conditions enriched genes involved in protein degradation and folding, oxidative stress, compatible solute synthesis, and ion pumps associated with osmotic regulation. Plant phenotyping allowed us to correlate bacterial communities with plant growth. Our study revealed that it is possible to evaluate microbiome diversity ex-situ and identify critical species and genes involved in plant-microbe interactions in historically arid locations.

New Variants of Squash Mosaic Viruses Detected in Human Fecal Samples.

Squash mosaic virus (SqMV) is a phytovirus that infects great diversity of plants worldwide. In Brazil, the SqMV has been identified in the states of Ceará, Maranhão, Piauí, Rio Grande do Norte, and Tocantins. The presence of non-pathogenic viruses in animals, such as phytoviruses, may not be completely risk-free. Similarities in gene repertories between these viruses and viruses that affect animal species have been reported. The present study describes the fully sequenced genomes of SqMV found in human feces, collected in Tocantins, and analyzes the viral profile by metagenomics in the context of diarrhea symptomatology. The complete SqMV genome was obtained in 39 of 253 analyzed samples (15.5%); 97.4% of them belonged to children under 5 years old. There was no evidence that the observed symptoms were related to the presence of SqMV. Of the different virus species detected in these fecal samples, at least 4 (rotavirus, sapovirus, norovirus, parechovirus) are widely known to cause gastrointestinal symptoms. The presence of SqMV nucleic acid in fecal samples is likely due to recent dietary consumption and it is not evidence of viral replication in the human intestinal cells. Identifying the presence of SqMV in human feces and characterization of its genome is a relevant precursor to determining whether and how plant viruses interact with host cells or microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract.

Diversity and foraging patterns of bees on flowers of Cucurbita pepo (Cucurbitaceae) in Costa Rica

Abstract Introduction: The species and functional diversity of pollinators are important components for the reproduction of cultivated plants. More information is necessary about this diversity and its geographical variation in crops such as Cucurbita pepo, an important crop in global agriculture. Objective: To describe the taxonomic diversity, geographic variation and foraging patterns of the community of bees that visit C. pepo crops in Costa Rica. Methods: Squash fields were visited at 11 locations within three geographic regions of the country, where the groups of bees and their relative frequency were determined. Through video recordings, information was obtained on their behavior at two locations. Results: A minimum of 27 species belonging to 19 genera and 2 families of bees were found. Three species were dominant in 10 localities (Eucera limitaris, Apis mellifera and Trigona corvina). Altitude reduces bee diversity due to the dominance of Bombus ephipiatus in high regions. Two genera of halictids (Megalopta and Caenaugochlora) that are rarely reported in this crop were frequently observed. Trigona bees dominated among the flowers later in the morning, lacerating nectary holes to facilitate nectar collection. Conclusions: Squash fields in Costa Rica are visited by a highly diverse bee community, which may ensure pollination via complementarity in the face of spatial or seasonal changes in environmental conditions.

Resumen Introducción: Dada la importancia del componente diversidad para la polinización de plantas cultivadas, es necesario obtener más información de esta diversidad y su variación geográfica en cultivos como Cucurbita pepo, uno de los cultivos más importantes de la agricultura centroamericana. Objetivo: Describir la diversidad y la variación geográfica de la comunidad de abejas que visitan este cultivo en Costa Rica, y algunos aspectos de sus patrones de búsqueda de alimento. Métodos: Se visitaron cultivos de C. pepo en 11 localidades dentro de tres regiones geográficas de Costa Rica, donde se determinó los grupos de abejas y su frecuencia relativa. Por medio de grabaciones de video se registró el comportamiento de cada grupo en dos localidades. Resultados: Fueron encontradas un mínimo de 27 especies pertenecientes a 19 géneros y 2 familias de abejas. Tres especies son dominantes en 10 localidades (Eucera limitaris, Apis mellifera y Trigona corvina). La altitud reduce la diversidad de abejas debido a la dominancia de Bombus ephipiatus en regiones altas. Se observaron dos géneros de halíctidos (Megalopta y Caenaugochlora) no previamente reportados en este cultivo. Abejas Trigona dominan las flores en horarios más tardíos de la mañana, donde algunas veces muerden los orificios de los nectarios para facilitar la recolecta de néctar. Conclusiones: La diversidad de abejas que visitan C. pepo en Costa Rica parece asegurar su polinización ante cambios espaciales o estacionales en condiciones ambientales.

Analysis of the sports career of brazilian international elite squash athletes / Análise da carreira esportiva de atletas brasileiros de squash com nível internacional

ABSTRACT The sports career is a process through which the athletes voluntarily seek to achieve high levels of sport performance, however, how the development of international elite squash athletes has occurred in different periods of their sports career is not known. This study aimed at describing and assessing the sport trajectory of Brazilian international elite squash athletes at different periods of their career, in light of dynamic elements, that is, personal engagement, quality relationships and appropriate settings. Semi-structured interviews were carried out based on the Personal Assets Framework (PAF). The interviews were applied to six athletes (three males and three females) and evaluated according to the Thematic Analysis (TA) method. The results showed that personality traits, interpersonal relationships and the sport practice settings enabled the squash players to develop their sports career. In conclusion, these three aspects when acting concurrently can favor the development of international elite squash athletes.

RESUMO A carreira esportiva é um processo onde o atleta, de forma voluntária, busca atingir níveis elevados de desempenho esportivo, entretanto não se conhece sobre como ocorreu o desenvolvimento da carreira esportiva em atletas de squash. O objetivo foi analisar a trajetória esportiva de atletas brasileiros de squash de nível internacional em diferentes momentos da carreira esportiva. Utilizando o Quadro de Desenvolvimento de Valores Pessoais no Esporte como base, realizamos entrevista semi-estruturada com seis atletas (três do sexo masculino e três do sexo feminino), e empregamos para a análise das entrevistas a Análise Temática. Os resultados encontrados foram que os temas características pessoais, relações interpessoais e o contexto de prática esportiva são temas que possibilitam o desenvolvimento da carreira esportiva de atletas de squash. De modo conclusivo os três aspectos, atuando de forma concomitante, possam ofertar, de modo favorável, o desenvolvimento de atletas de squash de nível internacional.

Genetic parameters and line selection of Cucurbita pepo based on selection indices / Parâmetros genéticos e seleção de linhagens de Cucurbita pepo com base em índices de seleção

In the improvement of pumpkins, the selection based on one or a few characters of interest tends to be less efficient, leading to a superior product only compared to the few characters selected. To maximize the simultaneous selection of multiple characteristics of interest, selection indexes are used to obtain a numerical value resulting from the combination of the characters on which the simultaneous selection is to be practiced. The objective of this study was to determine genetic parameters and the most appropriate selection indexes in strains of Summer squash (C. pepo). Statistical analyzes were performed based on 65 genotypes belonging to the vegetable germplasm bank of the Federal University of Uberlândia. The variables analyzed were: leaf area index, precocity, SPAD index, productivity. plant-1, number of fruits. Plant-1, leaf temperature, NDVI index and NDRE index. The indexes were used: Smith (1936) and Hazel (1943), the sum of "Ranks" by Mulamba and Mock (1978), and Willians (1962). The selection methodologies selected ten individuals (15% of the genotypes). The values found for h² (%) ranged from 36.92% (SPAD) to 59.65% (cycle). The values obtained in the CVg / CVe quotient were below 1, varying from 0.18 for leaf temperature to 0.70 for the cycle, with the other variables close to 0.5. The CVg genetic variation coefficient (%) was also low, ranging from 1.84% for leaf temperature to 30.94% for productivity. The greatest gains obtained with direct and indirect selection were for the characters productivity (35.92%), NDRE (33.04%), number of fruits (28.93%) and leaf area index (22.72%). The Mulamba and Mock (1978) index showed the highest total selection gain value, providing a balanced distribution of selection gains, choosing the genotypes: 8, 31, 34, 38, 42, 64, 65, 66, 67 and 68.

No melhoramento de abóboras, a seleção baseada em um ou alguns caracteres de interesse tende a ser pouco eficiente, levando a um produto superior apenas em comparação com os poucos caracteres selecionados. Para maximizar a seleção simultânea de múltiplas características de interesse, os índices de seleção são utilizados visando obter um valor numérico resultante da combinação dos caracteres sobre os quais será praticada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar parâmetros genéticos e os índices de seleção mais adequados em linhagens de abóbora (C. pepo). As análises estatísticas foram realizadas com base em 65 genótipos pertencentes ao banco de germoplasma de hortaliças da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia. As variáveis analisadas foram: índice de área foliar, precocidade, índice SPAD, produtividade. planta-1, número de frutos. Planta-1, temperatura foliar, índice NDVI e índice NDRE. Foram utilizados os índices: Smith (1936) e Hazel (1943), a soma de "Ranks" de Mulamba e Mock (1978) e Willians (1962). As metodologias de seleção selecionaram dez indivíduos (15% dos genótipos). Os valores encontrados para h² (%) variaram de 36,92% (SPAD) a 59,65% (ciclo). Os valores obtidos no quociente CVg / CVe foram inferiores a 1, variando de 0,18 para a temperatura foliar a 0,70 para o ciclo, com as demais variáveis próximas de 0,5. O coeficiente de variação genética CVg (%) também foi baixo, variando de 1,84% para temperatura foliar a 30,94% para produtividade. Os maiores ganhos obtidos com a seleção direta e indireta foram para os caracteres produtividade (35,92%), NDRE (33,04%), número de frutos (28,93%) e índice de área foliar (22,72%). O índice de Mulamba e Mock (1978) apresentou o maior valor de ganho de seleção total, proporcionando uma distribuição balanceada de ganhos de seleção, escolhendo os genótipos: 8, 31, 34, 38, 42, 64, 65, 66, 67 e 68.

Phylogeographic and population genetic analyses of Cucurbita moschata reveal divergence of two mitochondrial lineages linked to an elevational gradient.

PREMISE: Domestication usually involves local adaptation to environmental conditions. Cucurbita species are a promising model for studying these processes. Cucurbita moschata is the third major crop in the genus because of its economic value and because it displays high landrace diversity, but research about its genetic diversity, population structure, and phylogeography is limited. We aimed at understanding how geography and elevation shape the distribution of genetic diversity in C. moschata landraces in Mexico. METHODS: We sampled fruits from 24 localities throughout Mexico. We assessed 11 nuclear microsatellite loci, one mtDNA region, and three cpDNA regions but found no variation in cpDNA. We explored genetic structure with cluster analysis, and phylogeographic relationships with haplotype network analysis. RESULTS: Mitochondrial genetic diversity was high, and nuclear genetic differentiation among localities was intermediate compared to other domesticated Cucurbita. We found high levels of inbreeding. We recovered two mitochondrial lineages: highland (associated with the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt) and lowland. Nuclear microsatellites show that localities from the Yucatan Peninsula constitute a well-differentiated group. CONCLUSIONS: Mexico is an area of high diversity for C. moschata, and these landraces represent important plant genetic resources. In Mexico this species is characterized by divergence processes linked to an elevational gradient, which could be related to adaptation and may be of value for applications in agriculture. The Isthmus of Tehuantepec may be a partial barrier to gene flow. Morphological variation, agricultural management, and cultural differences may be related to this pattern of genetic structure, but further studies are needed.

Metal(loid)s in Cucurbita pepo in a Uranium Mining Impacted Area in Northwestern New Mexico, USA.

More than 500 unreclaimed mines and associated waste sites exist on the Navajo Nation reservation as a result of uranium (U) mining from the 1940s through the 1980s. For this study, the impact of U-mine waste on a common, locally grown crop food was examined. The goal of this site-specific study was to determine metal(loid) concentration levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cesium (Cs), molybdenum (Mo), lead (Pb), thorium (Th), U, vanadium (V) and selenium (Se) in Cucurbita pepo Linnaeus (squash), irrigation water, and soil using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The concentrations of metal(loid)s were greatest in roots > leaves > edible fruit (p < 0.05), respectively. There were significant differences between metal(loid)s in squash crop plot usage (<5 years versus >30 years) for V (p = 0.001), As (p < 0.001), U (p = 0.002), Cs (p = 0.012), Th (p = 0.040), Mo (p = 0.047), and Cd (p = 0.042). Lead and Cd crop irrigation water concentrations exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Maximum Contaminant Levels for drinking water for those metals. Edible squash concentration levels were 0.116 mg/kg of As, 0.248 mg/kg of Pb, 0.020 mg/kg of Cd, and 0.006 mg/kg of U. Calculated human ingestion of edible squash did not exceed Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake or Tolerable Upper Limit levels from intake based solely on squash consumption. There does not appear to be a food-ingestion risk from metal(loid)s solely from consumption of squash. Safer access and emphasis on consuming regulated water was highlighted. Food intake recommendations were provided. Continued monitoring, surveillance, and further research are recommended.

Rearing Frankliniella zucchini Nakahara & Monteiro (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) on zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L. 'Caserta') fruits

Abstract Frankliniella zucchini transmits zucchini lethal chlorosis virus, causal agent of lethal chlorosis of zucchini squash. The characteristics of relationship between this virus with its vector have not been studied, one of the reasons being the lack of a method for rearing the thrips for laboratory studies. This work proposes a system for the rearing of F. zucchini on fresh virus free zucchini 'Caserta' fruits, offering a practical and efficient alternative for the supply of a large number of insects for later study of virus/vector relationship. In addition, to aid in the identification of this species of thrips, the immature and adult forms obtained from the colony were described.

Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of a Squash leaf curl virus isolate from Baja California Sur, Mexico.

BACKGROUND: The begomovirus, squash leaf curl virus (SLCuV) is one of the causal agents of squash leaf curl (SLC) disease, which is among the most destructive diseases of cucurbit crops in tropical, subtropical, and semiarid regions worldwide. This disease was originally reported in the American continent with subsequent spread to the Mediterranean basin. Up to now, SLCuV has only been detected by PCR in Mexico. This study provides the first complete sequence of a Mexican SLCuV isolate from Baja California Sur (BCS). In addition, the genome of the virus was characterized, establishing its phylogenetic relationship with other SLCuV isolates. METHODS: The full genome (DNA-A and DNA-B) was amplified by rolling circle amplification, cloned and sequenced and the open reading frames (ORF) were annotated. Virus identification was performed according to the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) criteria for begomovirus species demarcation. To infer evolutionary relationship with other SLCuV isolates, phylogenetic and recombination analyses were performed. RESULTS: The SLCuV-[MX-BCS-La Paz-16] genome (DNA-A and DNA-B) had 99% identity with SLCuV reference genomes. The phylogenetic analysis showed that SLCuV-[MX-BCS-La Paz-16] is closely related to SLCuV isolates from the Middle East (Egypt, Israel, Palestine and Lebanon). No evidence of interspecific recombination was determined and iterons were 100% identical in all isolates in the SLCuV clade. CONCLUSIONS: SLCuV-[MX-BCS-La Paz-16] showed low genetic variability in its genome, which could be due to a local adaptation process (isolate environment), suggesting that SLCuV isolates from the Middle East could have derived from the southwestern United States of America (USA) and northwestern Mexico.

Development of gluten-free muffins utilizing squash seed dietary fiber.

Gluten-free muffins with squash seed flour (SSF) were developed for contribute to reduce nutritional deficiencies and improving the health of the celiac population. Physicochemical and sensory properties of muffins were evaluated. SSF was incorporated at two levels (10 and 20% w/w) in commercial gluten-free premix (control). Incorporation of SSF increased total dietary fiber content, protein and unsaturated fatty acids. The addition of SSF at 10% resulted in a muffin that did not differ significantly from the control muffin; and also that formulations with SSF at 20% caused an increase in the browning index. Browning was favored by the increase of SSF with higher levels of fiber content. Incorporation of SSF at 20% had a significant effect on the textural parameters (firmness and chewiness) of the muffin. Also, both formulations containing SSF showed a higher overall acceptability, particularly muffins with 20% of SSF that rendered the highest scores for sponginess, texture, taste and colour.

Genetic Resources in the "Calabaza Pipiana" Squash (Cucurbita argyrosperma) in Mexico: Genetic Diversity, Genetic Differentiation and Distribution Models.

Analyses of genetic variation allow understanding the origin, diversification and genetic resources of cultivated plants. Domesticated taxa and their wild relatives are ideal systems for studying genetic processes of plant domestication and their joint is important to evaluate the distribution of their genetic resources. Such is the case of the domesticated subspecies C. argyrosperma ssp. argyrosperma, known in Mexico as calabaza pipiana, and its wild relative C. argyrosperma ssp. sororia. The main aim of this study was to use molecular data (microsatellites) to assess the levels of genetic variation and genetic differentiation within and among populations of domesticated argyrosperma across its distribution in Mexico in comparison to its wild relative, sororia, and to identify environmental suitability in previously proposed centers of domestication. We analyzed nine unlinked nuclear microsatellite loci to assess levels of diversity and distribution of genetic variation within and among populations in 440 individuals from 19 populations of cultivated landraces of argyrosperma and from six wild populations of sororia, in order to conduct a first systematic analysis of their genetic resources. We also used species distribution models (SDMs) for sororia to identify changes in this wild subspecies' distribution from the Holocene (∼6,000 years ago) to the present, and to assess the presence of suitable environmental conditions in previously proposed domestication sites. Genetic variation was similar among subspecies (HE = 0.428 in sororia, and HE = 0.410 in argyrosperma). Nine argyrosperma populations showed significant levels of inbreeding. Both subspecies are well differentiated, and genetic differentiation (FST) among populations within each subspecies ranged from 0.152 to 0.652. Within argyrosperma we found three genetic groups (Northern Mexico, Yucatan Peninsula, including Michoacan and Veracruz, and Pacific coast plus Durango). We detected low levels of gene flow among populations at a regional scale (<0.01), except for the Yucatan Peninsula, and the northern portion of the Pacific Coast. Our analyses suggested that the Isthmus of Tehuantepec is an effective barrier isolating southern populations. Our SDM results indicate that environmental characteristics in the Balsas-Jalisco region, a potential center of domestication, were suitable for the presence of sororia during the Holocene.

Identification and characterization of a new potyvirus infecting cucurbits.

A new potyvirus, tentatively named cucurbit vein banding virus (CVBV), was identified in crops of cucurbits in San Pedro (Buenos Aires, Argentina). The complete genome sequences of two isolates of CVBV were obtained by next-generation sequencing (Illumina). The genomic RNA consisted of 9968 and 9813 nucleotides, respectively, and displayed typical potyvirus organization. The percentage identity for these two genome sequences, using BLASTn, was 77% to sweet potato virus c and 73% to tomato necrotic stunt virus. BLASTx analysis of the complete polyprotein showed that the most closely related virus is plum pox virus, with 48% amino acid sequence identity for both isolates. Sequence comparisons and phylogenetic analyses indicate that CVBV belongs to a previously undescribed species in genus Potyvirus.

Motivação competitiva de "squashistas" juvenis federados / The competitive motivation of youth federated squash players: an exploratory and comparative study

A Motivação Competitiva (MC) é uma característica de personalidade fundamental no contexto dos esportes. Recentemente foi proposto um modelo de avaliação da MC chamado Modelo Tridimensional de Avaliação da Motivação Competitiva (MTAMC). Esse modelo supõe que a MC possui três orientações competitivas distintas: Orientação à Vitória (OV), Orientação à Performance (OP) e Orientação ao Status (OS). O objetivo da presente pesquisa foi explorar e comparar o perfil motivacional competitivo de 35 "squashistas" juvenis federados, de ambos os sexos e com idades entre 13 e 18 anos. Para tanto, essa amostra respondeu a Escala Balbinotti de Motivos à Competividade no Esporte (EBMCE-18). Os dois principais resultados foram: 1) as orientações foram OP, OV e OS, nessa ordem, sendo que OP e OV é o único dos três pares analisados que não se diferencia estatisticamente; 2) a variável sexo não influenciou a intensidade das respostas em qualquer das três orientações testadas. Novos estudos devem explorar se na diferença não significativa encontrada entre OP e OV houve a influência do tamanho da amostra

The Competitive Motivation (MC) is a fundamental personality trait in the context of sports. Recently, a new model for assessing the MC called Three-dimensional Model of Competitive Motivation Assessment (TMCMA) was proposed. This model assumes that the MC has three distinct competitive orientations: to win (OV), to perform (OP), and to obtain status (OS). The purpose of this research is to explore and compare the competitive motivational profile of 35 youth federated squash players, of both genders, and aged between 13 to 18 years old. Therefore, this sample answered to the Balbinotti's Scale of Competitive Motivation in Sport (BSCMS-18). The two main results were: 1) the orientations emerged as OP, OV, and OS, in this order, being OP and OV the only one of three analyzed pairs that is statistically non-significant; 2) the gender variable does not significantly influence the intensity of the answers in any of the three orientations tested. Further studies should explore whether the statistically non-significant mean difference found between OP and OV was influenced by the sample size

Adult attractiveness and non-preference for oviposition of Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) biotype B (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in genotypes of Cucurbita spp / Atratividade para adultos e preferência para oviposição de Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) biótipo B (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) em genótipos de Cucurbita spp

The objective was to evaluate the oviposition preference and attractiveness of squash genotypes (Cucurbita spp.) to Bemisia tabaci biotype B. For bioassays, B. tabaci rearing biotype B was kept under greenhouse conditions. Twenty genotypes of Cucurbita spp. (Alicia AF 9354, Aline AF 9353, Golden Delight, Nova Caravela, Menina Morena, Novita, AF-6741, Atlas, Bárbara 305, Menina Brasileira, Caserta, Itapuã 301, Tâmara, Samira, Canhão Seca Gigante, Exposição, Novita Plus, Daiane, Formosa, Sandy) were evaluated in trials (attractiveness and oviposition choice), under laboratory and greenhouse. The attractiveness (adults/cm2) was assessed et 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours after release. After 72 hours leaves were collected for counting the number of eggs (free choice). The area of the sheets were measured to obtain the number of eggs/cm2 number of adults and / cm 2. The attractiveness index s (AI) and oviposition preference index (OPI) were calculated, and the genotype Novita was adopted as the standard susceptible. The genotype Golden Delight was the most attractive to adults of B. tabaci biotype B. Sandy Daiane and Formosa showed low attractiveness and Golden Delight was the most atractive to B. tabaci biotype B adults. Sandy, Exposição, Daiane, Atlas, Tamara and Formosa expressed no preference for free choise assay. Accordi

Objetivou-se avaliar a preferência para oviposição e a atratividade de genótipos de aboboreiras (Cucurbita spp.) frente à Bemisia tabaci biótipo B. Para os bioensaios, foi mantida uma criação de B. tabaci biótipo B em casa de vegetação. Vinte genótipos de Cucurbita spp. (Alicia AF 9354, Aline AF 9353, Golden Delight, Nova Caravela, Menina Morena, Novita, AF- 6741, Atlas, Bárbara 305, Menina Brasileira, Caserta, Itapuã 301, Tâmara, Samira, Canhão Seca Gigante, Exposição, Novita Plus, Daiane, Formosa, Sandy) foram avaliados em ensaios (atratividade e oviposição com chance de escolha), sob condições de laboratório e casa de vegetação. A atratividade (adultos/cm2) foi avaliada 12, 24, 48 e 72 horas após a liberação. Após 72 horas foram coletadas folhas para a contagem do número de ovos (com chance de escolha). As áreas das folhas foram medidas a fim de se obter o número de ovos/cm2 e o número de adultos/ cm2. O índice de atratividade (IA) e o índice de preferência para oviposição (IPO) foram calculados, sendo o genótipo Novita adotado como padrão suscetível. Sandy Daiane e Formosa apresentaram baixa atratividade, sendo Golden Delight o mais atrativo aos adultos de B. tabaci biótipo B. Sandy, Exposição, Daiane, Atlas, Tâmara e Formosa expressaram não-preferência para oviposição no ensaio com chance de escolha. De acordo c

Adult attractiveness and non-preference for oviposition of Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) biotype B (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in genotypes of Cucurbita spp / Atratividade para adultos e preferência para oviposição de Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) biótipo B (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) em genótipos de Cucurbita spp

The objective was to evaluate the oviposition preference and attractiveness of squash genotypes (Cucurbita spp.) to Bemisia tabaci biotype B. For bioassays, B. tabaci rearing biotype B was kept under greenhouse conditions. Twenty genotypes of Cucurbita spp. (Alicia AF 9354, Aline AF 9353, Golden Delight, Nova Caravela, Menina Morena, Novita, AF-6741, Atlas, Bárbara 305, Menina Brasileira, Caserta, Itapuã 301, Tâmara, Samira, Canhão Seca Gigante, Exposição, Novita Plus, Daiane, Formosa, Sandy) were evaluated in trials (attractiveness and oviposition choice), under laboratory and greenhouse. The attractiveness (adults/cm2) was assessed et 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours after release. After 72 hours leaves were collected for counting the number of eggs (free choice). The area of the sheets were measured to obtain the number of eggs/cm2 number of adults and / cm 2. The attractiveness index s (AI) and oviposition preference index (OPI) were calculated, and the genotype Novita was adopted as the standard susceptible. The genotype Golden Delight was the most attractive to adults of B. tabaci biotype B. Sandy Daiane and Formosa showed low attractiveness and Golden Delight was the most atractive to B. tabaci biotype B adults. Sandy, Exposição, Daiane, Atlas, Tamara and Formosa expressed no preference for free choise assay. Accordi

Objetivou-se avaliar a preferência para oviposição e a atratividade de genótipos de aboboreiras (Cucurbita spp.) frente à Bemisia tabaci biótipo B. Para os bioensaios, foi mantida uma criação de B. tabaci biótipo B em casa de vegetação. Vinte genótipos de Cucurbita spp. (Alicia AF 9354, Aline AF 9353, Golden Delight, Nova Caravela, Menina Morena, Novita, AF- 6741, Atlas, Bárbara 305, Menina Brasileira, Caserta, Itapuã 301, Tâmara, Samira, Canhão Seca Gigante, Exposição, Novita Plus, Daiane, Formosa, Sandy) foram avaliados em ensaios (atratividade e oviposição com chance de escolha), sob condições de laboratório e casa de vegetação. A atratividade (adultos/cm2) foi avaliada 12, 24, 48 e 72 horas após a liberação. Após 72 horas foram coletadas folhas para a contagem do número de ovos (com chance de escolha). As áreas das folhas foram medidas a fim de se obter o número de ovos/cm2 e o número de adultos/ cm2. O índice de atratividade (IA) e o índice de preferência para oviposição (IPO) foram calculados, sendo o genótipo Novita adotado como padrão suscetível. Sandy Daiane e Formosa apresentaram baixa atratividade, sendo Golden Delight o mais atrativo aos adultos de B. tabaci biótipo B. Sandy, Exposição, Daiane, Atlas, Tâmara e Formosa expressaram não-preferência para oviposição no ensaio com chance de escolha. De acordo c