bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are there structural alterations in the enamel organ of offspring of rats with alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus?
Authors: Silva-Sousa Yara Teresinha Corrêa , Peres Luiz Cesar , Foss Milton César
Published: April 2005

Enamel hypoplasia is the most common developmental defect of human teeth that may be seen in deciduous teeth of babies born to diabetic women. In the present experimental study, we analyzed the enamel organ of the mandibular incisors of the offspring of rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. By light microscopy, no alterations could be found in the enamel organ of rats born to diabetic mothers compared to normal ones, except in one case. In contrast, significant differences were detected with computer-aided morphometry. In the rats born to treated and untreated diabetic mothers, there was thinning of the enamel matrix and of the ameloblasts and the nuclear area of the latter was smaller. In the rats born to treated diabetic mothers, the nuclei of the ameloblasts were more elliptical and there was enlargement of the interstitial area of the stellate reticulum. These results indicate that there are structural defects in the enamel organ of rats born to mothers with alloxan-induced diabetes which could induce the enamel hypoplasia observed by scanning electron microscopy and which may reflect the metabolic alterations seen in this condition. Future studies are needed to determine whether these effects are transitory or permanent.
Effect of low level laser therapy on the repair of bone defects grafted with inorganic bovine bone
Authors: Pinheiro Antonio Luiz Barbosa , Limeira Júnior Francisco de Assis , Gerbi Marleny Elizabeth Márquez , Ramalho Luciana Maria Pedreira , Marzola Clovis , Ponzi Elizabeth Arruda Carneiro
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to assess histologically the effect of LLLT (l 830 nm) on the repair of standardized bone defects on the femur of Wistar albinus rats which were grafted with inorganic bovine bone Gen-ox®. Three randomized groups were studied: group I (control, n=6); group II (Gen-ox®, n=9) and group III (Gen-ox® + LLLT, n=9). The animals were irradiated every 48 h during 15 days; the first irradiation was performed immediately after the procedure. The animals were irradiated transcutaneuosly at four points around the defect. At each point a dose of 4 J/cm² was given (Ø~0.6 mm, 40 mW) and the total dose per session was 16 J/cm². The animals were killed by an overdose of general anesthetic 15, 21 and 30 days after surgery. The specimens were routinely processed by embedding in paraffin, serially cut and stained with H&E and Picrosirius and analyzed under light microscopy. The results showed evidence of a more advanced repair in the irradiated group when compared to the non-irradiated groups. The repair of the irradiated group was characterized by both increased bone formation and amount of collagen fibers around the graft within the cavity from the 15th day after surgery, also considering the osteoconductive capacity of the Gen-ox®. We conclude that LLLT had a positive effect on the repair of bone defects implanted with inorganic bovine bone.
Distribution of CD8 and CD20 lymphocytes in chronic periapical inflammatory lesions
Authors: Philippi Christine Kalvelage , Rados Pantelis Varvaki , Sant'ana Filho Manoel , Barbachan João Jorge Diniz , Quadros Onofre Francisco de
Published: April 2005

The objective of this study was to investigate the distribution of CD8+ and CD20+ lymphocytes in chronic periapical inflammatory lesions. A total of 90 periapical inflammatory lesions (chronic abscesses, abscessed cysts, and inflammatory cysts) were evaluated. The biotin-streptavidin immunohistochemical technique was used to identify cytotoxic/suppressor T-lymphocytes (CD8) and B-lymphocytes (CD20). Age ranged from 10 to 67 years. Patients between 26 and 45 years old (54.4%), females (52.2%), and white patients (74.4%) were more frequently affected. CD8+ cell distribution was as follows: 1) fibrous capsule: diffuse in 58.8% of chronic abscesses and absent in 64.1% of abscessed cysts and in 70.6% of inflammatory cysts; 2) infiltration zone: diffuse in 100% of abscessed cysts and in 82.4% of inflammatory cysts; 3) sub-epithelial zone: absent in 53.0% of inflammatory cysts and diffuse in 56.4% of abscessed cysts; 4) suppurative zone: diffuse in 100% of chronic abscesses and in 97.5% of abscessed cysts. CD20+ cell distribution was as follows: 1) fibrous capsule: absent in 100% of inflammatory cysts, in 94.8% of abscessed cysts, and in 88.3% of chronic abscesses; 2) infiltration zone: diffuse in 100% of abscessed cysts and in 53% of inflammatory cysts; 3) sub-epithelial zone: absent in 58.8% of inflammatory cysts and focal in 46.2% of abscessed cysts; 4) suppurative zone: diffuse in 100% of abscessed cysts and in 100% of chronic abscesses. The distribution of the lymphocytic infiltrate in the lesions was usually diffuse for both types of lymphocytes.
Evaluation of the adaptation interface of one-piece implant-supported superstructures obtained in Ni-Cr-Ti and Pd-Ag alloys
Authors: Costa Heloisa Módena Ferreira da , Rodrigues Renata Cristina Silveira , Mattos Maria da Glória Chiarello de , Ribeiro Ricardo Faria
Published: April 2005

Several formulations of alternative alloys have been proposed for the substitution of gold-based alloys used in Dentistry. Recently, a Ni-Cr-Ti-based alloy has been introduced. The purpose of this work was to verify the marginal adaptation obtained with one-piece superstructures for implant-supported prostheses obtained in Ni-Cr-Ti alloy, compared to a semi-noble alloy Pd-Ag. Eight superstructures for each alloy were produced over 4 implants in the anterior region of the mandible. The superstructures were placed in a torquemeter and the fixation screw of implant #1 was tightened with a 20 Ncm load with the others loosened (Sheffield test). The unfitness (in mm) was measured using a three-dimensional optical measurer in each implant, in the buccal and lingual aspects. The obtained data were submitted to statistical analysis by the analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% level. Significant differences were found for the factors material (p<0.05), with Ni-Cr-Ti pieces better than Pd-Ag ones, and implants (p<0.01). There were no significant differences for the factor position and interactions among factors (p>0.05). Based on the analysis of the data, it is possible to conclude that the Ni-Cr-Ti alloy makes possible the obtainment of one-piece implant-supported superstructures with a smaller misfit compared to the one obtained in Pd-Ag alloy, traditionally indicated for this situation. Additional tests may verify the superiority of the Ni-Cr-Ti alloy.
Assessment of cardiovascular parameters during dental procedures under the effect of benzodiazepines: a double blind study
Authors: Faraco Fatima Neves , Armonia Paschoal Laércio , Simone José Leonardo , Tortamano Nicolau
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this study was to evaluate cardiovascular parameters during dental procedures: systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressures, and heart rate. Nineteen healthy normotensive patients (18-56 years of age) received restorative treatment on three maxillary molars. The patients were continuously monitored by a non-invasive automatic monitor for blood pressure and heart rate during the pre-, trans-, and post-operative periods at the following stages: 15 min prior to anesthesia; during topical anesthesia; during infiltrative anesthesia; for 5 minutes immediately after; during cavity preparation; during restorative procedure; for 10 min after completion. Patients were divided into three groups: A (without pre-medication), B (preceded by 10 mg diazepam), and C (preceded by placebo). All patients received infiltrative anesthesia containing 1.8 mL of 2% lidocaine (36 mg) with epinephrine 1:100,000 (18 µg). There were no changes in the parameters during the clinical procedures. When groups were compared, there were significant differences in diastolic arterial pressures during anesthesia.
Tissue response to a membrane of demineralized bovine cortical bone implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of rats
Authors: Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso de , Menezes Renato , Cestari Tânia Mary , Taga Eulázio Mikio , Taga Rumio , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Granjeiro José Mauro
Published: April 2005

The treatment of persistent bone defects has encouraged the search for proper techniques or bone substitutes. In Dentistry, a common problem in the treatment of periodontal bone defects is the growth of tissues within the lesion, such as the junctional epithelium, which impair regeneration of these tissues. Guided tissue regeneration (GTR), based on the separation of the tissues by means of membranes or barriers, was developed in an attempt to improve periodontal regeneration. The aim of this study was to histologically evaluate the tissue response to a membrane of demineralized bovine cortical bone implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of rats. The study periods were 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 days after implantation. Analysis of the histological sections demonstrated a moderate to intense inflammatory response at 1 and 3 days, moderate at 7 and 15 days, and almost absent at 30 and 60 days. Resorption of the membrane began 15 days after implantation, and at 60 days only remnants could be detected in some animals. We concluded that the demineralized bovine cortical bone membrane was well tolerated by the tissues and is completely resorbed after 30-60 days by mononuclear cells and multinucleated giant cells, which disappear upon completion of the process.
Microleakage in bonded amalgam restorations using different adhesive materials
Authors: Cenci Maximiliano Sérgio , Piva Evandro , Potrich Fernando , Formolo Elenita , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Powers John M.
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to verify the ability of different adhesive materials to prevent microleakage in bonded amalgam restorations. Standard cavities were prepared in both buccal and lingual surfaces of 35 bovine incisors. The gingival wall was located in cementum/dentin and the occlusal wall in enamel. Teeth (n=35) were divided into 5 groups, according to material employed (one glass-ionomer cement, two resin cements, one adhesive system, and Copalex varnish as a control). Following restoration, the teeth were submitted to thermal cycling. The teeth were subsequently immersed in methylene blue dye and sectioned to allow assessment of microleakage. Non-parametric statistical analysis indicated that all materials demonstrated less leakage than the control group (p<0.01). No leakage was found using the resin-modified glass-ionomer cement, which was significantly different from the other adhesive materials (p<0.05). Leakage in enamel was lower than in cementum/dentin margins. It was concluded that bonded amalgam was an effective technique, since all materials prevented microleakage in enamel and cementum/dentin, when compared to the control group, except Panavia in cementum/dentin margins.
Morphometric analysis of the effectiveness of different concentrations of sodium hypochlorite associated with rotary instrumentation for root canal cleaning
Authors: Baratto-Filho Flares , Carvalho Jr. Jacy Ribeiro de , Fariniuk Luiz Fernando , Sousa-Neto Manoel D. , Pécora Jesus Djalma , Cruz-Filho Antônio Miranda da
Published: April 2005

This study evaluated the cleaning capacity of Profile .04 instruments with different concentrations of NaOCl solutions on flattened root canals. Twenty central mandibular incisors were divided into 4 groups: Group I: 0.5% NaOCl; Group II: 1% NaOCl; Group III: 5% NaOCl; Group IV: distilled and deionized water. After chemomechanical preparation, the teeth were submitted to histological preparation and morphometric analysis. Morphometric analysis showed that the 5% NaOCl was significantly more efficient in cleaning the root canal than 0.5% NaOCl and distilled water, which had the lowest levels of cleaning of the root canals (p<0.01).
Control of gingival inflammation in a teenager population using ultrasonic prophylaxis
Authors: Novaes Júnior Arthur Belém , Souza Sérgio Luís Scombatti de , Taba Jr. Mário , Grisi Marcio Fernando de Moraes , Suzigan Luciane Cristina , Tunes Roberta Santos
Published: April 2005

Gingival inflammation is clinically characterized by gingival redness, swelling and increased tendency of bleeding of the soft tissue. Bacterial biofilm is the etiological agent. If, at this stage, the bacterial biofilm is removed and appropriate control methods are applied, remission of gingival inflammation occurs. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a single session of ultrasonic prophylaxis for the reduction of gingivitis in an adolescent population using the Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI). The study sample consisted of 15 male adolescent students selected at a dentist's office of a public high school. Prior to treatment (baseline), plaque index (PI) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded. The patients then received oral hygiene instructions and ultrasonic prophylaxis. Follow-up exams were made 15 and 30 days after the ultrasonic prophylaxis, again recording PI and BOP. The data were analyzed by the Student's t-test for dependent samples. Correlation analysis between presence of biofilm and bleeding on probing was also made using the Pearson correlation test. There was a statistically significant decrease in the plaque index and bleeding on probing between baseline and examinations at both 15 days and 30 days (p<0.05). However, the difference between the means at 15 and 30 days was statistically similar. The correlation analysis showed correlation between both parameters (p<0.05). The results indicate that a single session of ultrasonic prophylaxis associated to oral hygiene instructions is efficient to reverse gingivitis in adolescents.
Effect of packing types on the dimensional accuracy of denture base resin cured by the conventional cycle in relation to post-pressing times
Authors: Consani Rafael Leonardo Xediek , Domitti Saide Sarckis , Mesquita Marcelo Ferraz , Consani Simonides
Published: April 2005

This study investigated the dimensional stability of denture bases influenced by packing methods, in relation to post-pressing times, in the Clássico acrylic resin which was prepared according to manufacturer recommendations. Forty maxillary wax bases were made and randomly assigned into 2 groups of 20 specimens each according to the conventional and RS system packing methods. In each method, the specimens were subdivided into immediate, 6, 12 and 24 h post-pressing times. The dough of the acrylic resin was packed in metallic flasks and processed in a water bath curing cycle at 74ºC for 9 h. After cooling at room temperature, the bases were removed from the flasks, finished and fixed on stone casts with instantaneous adhesive. The resin base-stone cast sets were transversally sectioned into 3 sections and the base-stone gap measured at 5 points in each section. The data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test, which showed that the RS system had a smaller base distortion compared to conventional packing, with the exception of the 24-h post-pressing time. There was a statistically significant difference between the packing methods only in section C (posterior palatal zone). In the conventional packing method, the immediate and 6 h times demonstrated values with no statistically significant difference between them, as well as between the 12 and 24 h post-pressing times.
Influence of Er: YAG laser irradiation on apical sealing of four different sealers
Authors: Mello Isabel , Robazza Carlos Roberto Colombo , Antoniazzi João Humberto
Published: April 2005

The sealing of the root canal system is of fundamental importance for successful endodontic treatment. To obtain an adequate apical seal, many factors must be considered such as the presence of smear layer and the sealer applied. After canal preparation, this layer must be removed because it prevents close contact between the dentinal walls and the sealing material. The goal of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability of four different sealers after smear layer removal with either 17% EDTA-T irrigation or Er:YAG laser irradiation of 46 teeth. The canals were sealed with four different sealers: Sealapex, Ketac Endo, AH Plus and N-Rickert. The method for smear layer removal did not influence apical sealing. AH Plus and N-Rickert allowed less dye leakage when compared to Sealapex and Ketac Endo.
Microleakage study of three adhesive systems
Authors: Arias Vanessa Gallego , Campos Inger Teixeira , Pimenta Luiz André Freire
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the efficacy of three hydrophilic dentin adhesive systems to reduce class II restoration microleakage. A total of 60 human molar teeth were used in which two box cavities were made on the distal and mesial surfaces, with a cervical margin in dentin. These cavities were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 40 each), according to adhesive system tested: G1: OptiBond SOLO®; G2: Amalgambond Plus®; G3: Etch & Prime 3.0®. The cavities were restored with the composite resin Z-100®. The groups were thermocycled 2000 times (5 ± 1ºC and 55 ± 1ºC) with a dwell time of 1 min. The teeth were then immersed in 2% methylene blue, pH 7.0, for 4 h, sectioned and observed with a stereomicroscope MEIJI 2000 (35X). The evaluation was made using scores (0-4) and the results were expressed through the sum of the ranks. G1 = 1994.00; G2 = 2294.00; G3 = 2972.00. The three groups were significantly different. The self-etching adhesive system Etch & Prime 3.0 was less effective in preventing microleakage. The OptiBond SOLO adhesive was the most effective in reducing microleakage in dentin margins when compared with Amalgambond Plus and Etch & Prime 3.0.
Use of statistical procedures in Brazilian and international dental journals
Authors: Ambrosano Gláucia Maria Bovi , Reis André Figueiredo , Giannini Marcelo , Pereira Antônio Carlos
Published: April 2005

A descriptive survey was performed in order to assess the statistical content and quality of Brazilian and international dental journals, and compare their evolution throughout the last decades. The authors identified the reporting and accuracy of statistical techniques in 1000 papers published from 1970 to 2000 in seven dental journals: three Brazilian (Brazilian Dental Journal, Revista de Odontologia da Universidade de São Paulo and Revista de Odontologia da UNESP) and four international journals (Journal of the American Dental Association, Journal of Dental Research, Caries Research and Journal of Periodontology). Papers were divided into two time periods: from 1970 to 1989, and from 1990 to 2000. A slight increase in the number of articles that presented some form of statistical technique was noticed for Brazilian journals (from 61.0 to 66.7%), whereas for international journals, a significant increase was observed (65.8 to 92.6%). In addition, a decrease in the number of statistical errors was verified. The most commonly used statistical tests as well as the most frequent errors found in dental journals were assessed. Hopefully, this investigation will encourage dental educators to better plan the teaching of biostatistics, and to improve the statistical quality of submitted manuscripts.
Cyanogenic glycosides in plants
Authors: Francisco Ilza A. , Pinotti Maria Helena Pimenta
Published: April 2005

The presence of cyanogenic glycosides was determined in 70 plant species from the campus of the State University of Londrina, PR, Brazil, and a further 45 plant species from the Forestry Reserve on the Doralice Farm in Ibiporã, PR, Brazil. Of the vegetative species from the State University of Londrina, 7.1% showed cyanogenic glycosides: Manihot esculenta (Euphorbiaceae), Passiflora edulis (Passifloraceae), Macadamia ternifolia (Proteaceae), Prunus persica (Rosaceae) and Beloperone sp (Acanthaceae).The first four species were considered to be potentially cyanogenic in the field. From the Forestry Reserve on the Doralice Farm, the plant species with cyanogenic glycosides were: Holocalix balanseae (Caesalpinaceae), Nectranda megapotamica (Lauraceae), Trichilia casareti (Meliaceae), Trichilia elegans (Meliaceae) and Rapanea umbellata (Myrsinaceae), making 11.1% of the total species analyzed. Only Holocalix balanseae was considered to be potentially cyanogenic in the field.
Morphometric patterns of two fouling Eudendrium spp. (Hydrozoa, Anthomedusae, Eudendriidae) from São Sebastião (SP, SE Brazil)
Authors: Oliveira Otto M.P. , Marques Antonio C. , Migotto Alvaro E.
Published: April 2005

Thirty colonies of Eudendrium carneum and 100 colonies of E. glomeratum, collected on recruitment panels in São Sebastião (SP, SE Brazil), were studied concerning morphometrical parameters and compared with morphometrical data available from other locations. The results show that E. carneum from Brazil has a relatively smaller morphometric variation than colonies of E. glomeratum for Brazil and other areas. Both morphological and speciation causes are suggested as possible explanations for the high variation of E. glomeratum.
Feeding of two sympatric species of Characidium, C. lanei and C. pterostictum (Characidiinae) in a coastal stream of Atlantic Forest (Southern Brazil)
Authors: Aranha José Marcelo R. , Gomes José Henrique C. , Fogaça Fábio N. O.
Published: April 2005

The feeding strategy of Characidium lanei and C. pterostictum was studied in the "Cabral" stream, a coastal stream of the Atlantic Forest, in southern Brazil. The samples were taken using electric fishing between March/95 and February/96. We studied about 15 stomach contents for each species in each season of the year. The stomach contents of the studied species were composed of 39 different food items, 28 in C. lanei and 24 in C. pterostictum. Chironomidae larvae and Ephemeroptera nymph were the most important items for C. lanei, except in the summer when Acarina and not identified Arthropoda were the most important items. Chironomidae and Simulidae larvae were the most important items in C. pterostictum. These results indicated an insectivorous habits and opportunist feeding strategy to C. lanei and C. pterostictum with several items rare or not very frequent.
Microflora dynamics in earthworms casts in an artificial soil (biosynthesol) containing lactic acid oligomers
Authors: Alauzet Nathalie , Roussos Sevastianos , Garreau Henri , Vert Michel
Published: April 2005

Studies were performed to appreciate the presence of micro-organisms able to degrade OLA, in earthworms casts or in the surroundings. Worms were grown in biosynthesol, an artificial soil. The counting of bacteria and fungi in earthworms casts and in biosynthesol without earthworms suggested that earthworms ate some of the micro-organisms. The main filamentous fungi genera found were Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Fusarium and Penicillium. Previous results in the literature have shown that some species from the Aspergillus and Fusarium genera were able to degrade OLA and other aliphatic esters. It could be suggested that these two genera and some bacteria were responsible for the pre-degradation of OLA, and that earthworms might eat them.
Effects of trace volatile organic compounds on methane oxidation
Authors: Chiemchaisri Wilai , Visvanathan Chettiyappan , Jy Shing Wu
Published: April 2005

The effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on methane oxidation in landfill cover soils were examined. The batch experiments were conducted using single and mixed VOCs, such as, dichloromethane (DCM), trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), and benzene. The results from all combinations showed a decrease in methane oxidation rate with increase in VOC concentrations. Moreover, inhibition effects of TCE and DCM were found higher than benzene and PCE. The reduction of methane oxidation by benzene and PCE could be attributed to the toxicity effect, whereas TCE and DCM were found to exhibit the competitive-inhibition effect. When the soil was mixed with DCM, no methane oxidation was found. Damage to the cell’s internal membrane was found in a methanotrophic culture exposed to VOC gases which is the attachment site of a key enzyme needed for methane oxidation
Biogenic gases in tropical floodplain river
Authors: Ballester Maria Victória Ramos , Santos José Eduardo dos
Published: April 2005

Analysis of the distribution of biogenic gases in the floodplain of the Mogi-Guaçu River (São Paulo, Brazil) enabled the establishment of a "redox hierarchy", in which the main channel was the most oxidizing environment, followed by Diogo Lake, with Infernão Lake having the most reducing conditions of the subsystems evaluated. Diogo Lake exported about 853.4 g C.m-2.year-1, of which, 14.6% was generated from methanogenesis and 36.7% by aerobic respiration. For Infernão Lake, these values were 2016 g C.m-2.year-1, 1.8 % and 41.5 %, respectively. Carbon export by these systems was predominantly in the form of CO2, which was responsible for the release of 728.78 g C.m-2.year-1 at Diogo Lake and 1979.72 g C.m-2. year-1 at Infernão Lake. Such patterns may result from the nature of the hydrological conditions, the action of the hydroperiod, and morphological characteristics of the environment.
Stimulation of the Megasphaera elsdenii’s butyrate production in continuous culture by a yeast additive
Authors: Soto-Cruz Oscar , Chávez-Rivera Rafael , Saucedo-Castañeda Gerardo
Published: April 2005

Continuous culture study of the ruminal bacterium Megasphaera elsdenii using lactate as carbon source is reported. Butyrate, the minor product in batch culture, was the main product in continuous culture. Under steady state conditions the biomass concentration was increased from 0.46 to 0.72 g l-1. Addition of Yea Sacc did not result an increased availability of carbon. The produced amounts of valerate and CO2 were calculated by using a combined carbon and degree of reduction balances. According to these results, the lactate catabolism of M. elsdenii was changed by the presence of yeast additive, yielding more butyrate and diminishing the production of valerate, while acetate and propionate production was not affected. Results reported in this work suggested that soluble compounds present in the yeast additive filtrate enhanced the anabolism of M. elsdenii and modified the carbon fluxes through its pathways by increasing butyrate and decreasing valerate production in continuous culture.
Production of Flammulina velutipes on coffee husk and coffee spent-ground
Authors: Leifa Fan , Pandey Ashok , Soccol Carlos R.
Published: April 2005

Solid state cultivation (SSC) was carried out to evaluate the feasibility of using coffee husk and spent-ground as substrates for the production of edible mushroom Flammulina under different conditions of moisture and spawn rate. The strain of F. velutipes LPB 01 was adapted for a coffee husk extract medium. Best results were obtained with 25% spawn rate, though there was not much difference when lower spawn rates (10-20%) were used. Ideal moisture content for mycelial growth was 60% and 55% for coffee husk and spent-ground, respectively. With coffee husk as substrate, first fructification occurred after 25 days of inoculation and the biological efficiency reached about 56% with two flushes after 40 days. With spent-ground as substrate, first fructification occurred 21 days after inoculation and the biological efficiency reached about 78% in 40 days. There was decrease in the caffeine and tannins contents (10.2 and 20.4%, respectively) in coffee husk after 40 days. In coffee spent-ground, the tannin contents decreased by 28% after 40 days. These decrease was attributed to the degradation of caffeine or tannins by the culture because these were not adsorbed in the fungal mycelia. Results showed the feasibility of using coffee husk and coffee spent-ground as substrate without any nutritional supplementation for cultivation of edible fungus in SSC. Spent ground appeared better than coffee husk.
Evaluation of arsenic and selenium in Brazilian soluble coffee by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry with hydride generation
Authors: Santos Éder José dos , Oliveira Elisabeth de
Published: April 2005

A method for the evaluation of arsenic and selenium in soluble coffee by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry with continuous hydride generation to attend the Brazilian food legislation is described. Samples were digested with nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide in a focused microwave system. Slow heating eliminated nitric acid and selenium (VI) was reduced to selenium (IV) by addition of 6 mol/L hydrochloric acid and heating at 90° C under a reflux system. The influence of sample acidity on sensitivity was investigated. Hydrochloric acid 6 mol/L was the most suitable reaction medium. Practical detection limits of 2.0mug/L for As and 1.0mu g/L for Se were achieved and attended the Brazilian food legislation. The results of recoveries on spiked samples demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of the procedure.
Sightings of Pontoporia blainvillei (Gervais & D' Orbigny, 1844) and Sotalia fluviatilis (Gervais, 1853) (Cetacea) in South-eastern Brazil
Authors: Di Beneditto Ana Paula M. , Ramos Renata Maria A. , Lima Neuza Rejane W.
Published: April 2005

Pontoporia blainvillei (Gervais & D' Orbigny, 1844) and Sotalia fluviatilis (Gervais, 1853) have typically coastal habits and are sympatric in South-eastern Brazil. The purpose of this work was to record sightings and describe aspects concerning the behaviour of both species in this region, between 1993 and 1998. The sightings were accomplished by cruises and from a fixed point. Information provided by fishermen were also considered. In general, P. blainvillei was observed in all seasons of the year, up to five nautical miles away from the coast, up to 15 m deep and the groups comprised up to five specimens. The most part of the groups of S. fluviatilis, were observed in autumm and winter times and comprised up to 10 specimens. In about half of the sightings, the presence of calves and/or juveniles was noted. The cooperative (group) fishing was the foranging behaviour most frequently noted for S. fluviatilis.
Anatomical confirmation of root parasitism in Brazilian Agalinis Raf. species (Scrophulariaceae)
Authors: Elias Samira Ismael , Souza Vinicius Castro , Appezzato-da-Glória Beatriz
Published: April 2005

Agalinis Raf. consists approximately of 60 species, 14 of which occur in Brazil. The genus presents predominantly american distribution and the Brazilian species appears mainly in high areas of Minas Gerais. The North-American species are refered as hemiparasites, but there is no anatomical data about it in relation to the Brazilian species. Anatomical studies were conducted to verify whether the Agalinis species from Brazil were root parasites or not. The eight species analysed were presented haustoria which varied in shape, arrangement and size. They were generally elliptic or globose structures and mostly were tightly sticked to other roots in a solitary or clustered manner. The seriate sections of haustoria showed that there was a xylem connection between them and the roots in which they were attached. This fact has confirmed for the first time the occurrence of parasitism in the Brazilian species of Agalinis.
Habitat selection by fish in an artificial reef in Ilha Grande Bay, Brazil
Authors: Brotto Daniel Shimada , Araujo Francisco Gerson
Published: April 2005

The use of artificial structures as a shelter for fishes was evaluated aiming to assess increase in fish abundance in Ilha Grande Bay at Southeast Brazilian coast (Lat: 22°8'-23°5' S; Long. 44º05’-44º40’W). Five different types of structures, made of clay tiles, with an increase range on size and complexity were tested to assess their efficiency. Fish were counted in each type of structure from May-1996 to April-1997 by underwater observation made with snorkelling. According to the pattern of concentration in the structures, two groups of fishes were identified. One comprised by E. guaza, M. rubra, R. randalli, S. hispidus, Sphoeroides sp and Haemulun sp showed affinity for hard bottom, irregular profile and an increase in abundance on the more complex and biggest structures. The other comprised by Chylomicterus sp, Gerres spp, Anchoa sp, Diapterus sp, Oligoplites sp and D. radiale did not present clear preference for hard bottom.
Performance of Differents Genotyps of Brazilian Orchid Cultivation in Alternatives Substrates
Authors: Faria Ricardo Tadeu de , Rego Luciana do Valle , Bernardi Anderson , Molinari Hugo
Published: April 2005

Two native Brazilian orchid especies, Oncidium baueri and Maxillaria picta, were grown in different substrate mixtures. The plants were cultivated in ceramic pots in a greenhouse with 50% of shadind light and watered three times a week. The following substrates were used: 1) de-fibered xaxim; 2)xaxim cubes; 3) vermiculite; 4) carbonized rice husk; 5) charcoal; 6) charcoal + carbonized rice husk; 7) crocks; 8) vermiculite and charcoal; 9) vermiculite + carbonized rice husks; 10) extruded polystyrene + charcoal; 11) pine bark + charcoal + extruded polystyrene; 12) vermiculite + carbonized rice husks + extruded polystyrene + charcoal; 13) pine bark. The substrate ratio was 1:1 in the mixture. NPK 10-10-10 leaf fertilizer was applied every thirty days and castor bean cake and bone powder organic fertilizer were applied every ninety days. A randomized complete block design was used with 10 replications. Growth and rooting were assessed after eight months. The best alternative substrate to O. baueri was vermiculie and the best alternatives substrates to M. picta were vermiculite and charcoal and vermiculite + carbonized rice husks.
Effect of Light Intensity on Initial Survival of Fat Snook (Centropomus parallelus, Pisces: Centropomidae) Larvae
Authors: Cerqueira Vinicius Ronzani , Brügger André Macedo
Published: April 2005

Different light intensities were tested during the larval rearing of fat snook (Centropomus parallelus) to evaluate its influence on survival and functional swim bladder rate. Newly-hatched larvae were obtained by stripping of hormonally induced broodstock, and were stocked in 32-liter tanks at densities from 30 to 50 L-1. Four experiments were carried out testing six light intensities: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1500, and 2500 lx, and total darkness as a control. Mean survival ranged from 0.06 to 16.0% and were significantly influenced by light intensity. Complete darkness resulted in 100% mortality after one week, larvae appeared to have starved since they had empty stomachs. The species has the characteristics of a visual-feeder. Survival was the highest at 200 lx, while at 500 lx was higher than at 50, 100, and 2500 lx. Frequency of functional swim bladder ranged from 36.8 to 100%, but it was not significantly correlated with light intensity. Based on this study, a medium light intensity, 200 to 1500 lx, is recommended for rearing fat snook larvae. Extreme values must be avoided, mainly in the first two weeks after hatching.
Temperature Dependent Seed Germination of Dalbergia nigra Allem (Leguminosae)
Authors: Ferraz-Grande Fernanda G. A. , Takaki Massanori
Published: April 2005

The germination of endangered species Dalbergia nigra was studied and 30.5° C was found as optimum temperature, although the species presented a broad temperature range where germination occurs and light had no effect. The analysis of kinetics of seed germination confirmed the asynchronized germination below and above the optimum temperature. The light insensitive seed and germination also at high temperatures indicated that D. nigra could occur both in understories and gaps where the mean temperature was high.
Effect of Organic Matter on Manganese Solubility
Authors: Andrade Emilene , Miyazawa Mário , Pavan Marcos A. , Oliveira Edson L. de
Published: April 2005

The objective of this study was to re-evaluate some aspects of the relative importance of organic matter on Mn solubility in acid soil conditions. Field study showed that black oats, oil seed radish, elephant grass, lupin, leucaena, and coffee leaves serving as mulch decreased Mn solubility as compared with bare soil. The decrease in Mn solubility with plant mulch was related to increase in soil moisture content. Laboratory study showed that increasing temperature from 25 to 100ºC increased Mn solubility and total soil organic carbon was little changed; from 150 to 200ºC increased both Mn solubility and organic carbon oxidation, and up to 300ºC decreased Mn solubility and stoped organic carbon oxidation . Aluminum solubility always increased with increasing temperature. Organic matter exerted a control in both Mn and Al solubilities in acid soils.
A Mathematical Model for the Removal of Organic Mater in Stabilization Ponds
Authors: Medri Waldir , Medri Vandir
Published: April 2005

This work presents an application to systemize the construction of ponds systems for treatment of domestic sewage. It consisted of two anaerobic ponds operated in parallel during May/97 to April/99. These were connected in series with a chicaned facultative pond. The treatment system was controlled with samples collected from the crude sewage (compound sample), in the affluents and effluents of the ponds and along the flux of the anaerobic and facultative ponds. The following parameters were analyzed: pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Solids, Sedimentable Solids, Total Coliforms, Oxygen Consumed in Acid Medium (OCAM) and temperature.
N:Si:P atomic ratio in the Santa Cruz Channel, Itamaracá-PE (Northeast Brazil): a nyctemeral variation
Authors: Montes Manuel de Jesús Flores , Macêdo Silvio José de , Koening Maria Luise
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out on the Inlets of Orange and Catuama at the Santa Cruz Channel, Itamaracá-PE, in the rainy and dry seasons, in a nyctemeral cycle, and in a transversal profile, with intervals of three hours between collections. The objective was to determine the spacial and temporal variation of the N:Si:P atomic ratio, and its possible inter-relations and dependencies, as well as the influence of the hydrodynamism provoked by the variation of the tides at different times of the year. Nitrite-N and nitrate-N were higher in the rainy season, while ammonia-N, phosphate-P and silicate-Si were higher in the dry season, which indicated different results than previous studies. The N:P atomic ratio was lower than 16:1, in all seasons and stations, being highest in the rainy season at Inlet Orange. The Si:P atomic ratio was always high. During the observed nyctemeral cycles, the main factors influencing the composition of the physical, chemical and biological parameters were the tide cycles and the meteorological parameters.
Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA of Trichoderma isolates and antagonism against Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Góes Larissa Brandão , Costa Ana Bolena Lima da , Freire Laurineide Lopes de Carvalho , Oliveira Neiva Tinti de
Published: April 2005

Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) procedure was used to examine the genetic variability among fourteen isolates of Trichoderma and their ability to antagonize Rhizoctonia solani using a dual-culture assay for correlation among RAPD products and their hardness to R. solani. Seven oligodeoxynucleotide primers were selected for the RAPD assays which resulted in 197 bands for 14 isolates of Trichoderma. The data were entered into a binary matrix and a similarity matrix was constructed using DICE similarity (SD) index. A UPGMA cluster based on SD values was generated using NTSYS (Numerical Taxonomy System, Applied Biostatistics) computer program. A mean coefficient of similarity obtained for pairwise comparisons among the most antagonics isolates was around 40%. The results presented here showed that the variability among the isolates of Trichoderma was very high. No relationship was found between the polymorphism showed by the isolates and their hardness, origin and substrata.
Diet of Astyanax species (Teleostei, Characidae) in an Atlantic Forest River in Southern Brazil
Authors: Vilella Fábio Silveira , Becker Fernando Gertum , Hartz Sandra Maria
Published: April 2005

Feeding habits of six species of Astyanax from river Maquiné are described. Fishes were sampled bi-monthly from November/95 to September/96 in two zones of the river. Items were identified, counted and had their abundance estimated according to a semi-quantitative scale. Frequency of occurrence, alimentary importance index (IFI) values and a similarity analysis of diets for each species-river zone sample were examined. All the species were considered typically omnivorous, with insects and vegetal matter being the most important items in their diet. These species could act as seed dispersers, particularly for macrophytes. Intra-specific spatial differences were not observed in comparisons of samples from two diferent regions of the river, except for A. fasciatus. The presence of Podostemaceae macrophytes in the mid-course of the river seemed to be important both as an autochthonous food resource and as habitat for several organisms preyed by the Astyanax species.
Possible Associations between Bovine Growth Hormone Gene Polymorphism and Reproductive Traits
Authors: Unanian Maria Marina , Barreto Cristine Chaves , Cordeiro Célia Maria Torres , Freitas Alfredo Ribeiro , Josahkian Luiz Antonio
Published: April 2005

The polymorphism of the bovine growth hormone gene (bGH) was studied in 211 Nellore pure breed males for association with reproductive traits. Scrotal circumference and testosterone concentrations were collected monthly from 10 until 16 months of age. Additionally, testicular growth rates were calculated. DNA was amplified by PCR and digested using Msp I and Hae III restriction enzymes. Every polymorphism presented two alleles. The predominant alleles were D (0.85) and F (0.98), respectively, and genotype EE - bGH/Hae III was missing. Significant association (P<0.05) between bGH/Msp I polymorphism, scrotal circumference and testicular growth after puberty, as well as between bGH/Hae III and testosterone concentrations at puberty were detected. The results suggested that these association could be useful for selection, since bGH/Msp I and bGH/Hae III polymorphisms could be considered as markers for testicular development after puberty and onset of puberty, respectively.
Structure and Dynamics of Fish Assemblages in a Tidal Creek Environment
Authors: Vendel Ana Lúcia , Spach Henry Louis , Lopes Sabine Granado , Santos César
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out on structure and dynamics of fish assemblages in the Baguaçu tidal creek, Paranaguá Bay, Brazil. A total of 30,104 fish were captured, comprising 21 families and 47 species. Both in weight and in number, the species Anchoa parva prevailed. Monthly captures in number and weight were largest in the autumn and part of the winter. No seasonal tendency was observed in the indexes of community structure. The dendrogram produced by the classification of the samples separated the 12 months of collection into three groups, reflecting differences in the qualitative and quantitative occurrences of the most important taxa. Some ecological likeness, not only seasonal patterns of abundance, seemed evident in the seasonality of the groupings of species revealed through the cluster analysis. The principal component analysis reflected mainly the periods of rain and drought
Heterosis in soybeans for seed yield components and associated traits
Authors: Pandini Fábio , Vello Natal Antonio , Lopes Ângela Celis de Almeida
Published: April 2005

The objective of this research was to quantify heterosis of agronomic traits and evaluate direct and indirect correlations among seed yield and other traits. A diallel involving six parents was grown in two localities. Seed yield (PG), one-hundred seed weight (PCS), number of pods per plant (NV), weight of aerial part of the plant (PPA), harvest index (IC) and number of seeds per pod (NGV) were evaluated. Positive values of heterosis were detected for all traits. Estimates of heterosis components were significative for most traits, showing effects of aditivity and dominance. The specific heterosis was more important than the variety heterosis, mainly in the locality Anhembi. MTBR-95-123800 presented the best potential per se and as parent in crosses, but it was excelled by some of the hybrids in the two localities. Number of pods per plant demonstrated to be suitable for indirect selection for PG.
Immature culicidae (Diptera) collected from the Igapó lake located in the urban area of Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Lopes José , Zequi João A. C. , Nunes Valdecir , Oliveira Osmar de , O. Neto Bertolino P. de , Rodrigues Walter
Published: April 2005

The Igapó lake dam is located in an urban area in Londrina, Paraná, Brazil. A one year study of the Culicidae immature forms was conducted in this ecosystem. From a total of 962 collected larvae following genera were identified: Anopheles (59.36%), Culex (19.65%) Aedeomyia (19.23%) Aedes (1.50%), and Uranotaenia (0.10%). The 10 most abundant species were Anopheles strodei, Aedeomyia squamipennis, Culex (Melanoconium) spp., Culex mollis, Anopheles oswaldoi, Anopheles evansae, Culex coronator, Culex quinquefasciatus, Anopheles argyritarsis and Aedes terrens respectively. An. strodei prevailed with greater averages during July and September, showing a significant negative lineal correlation in relation to the rainfall. Ad. squamipennis showed a positive lineal correlation with the temperature with smaller population averages during June, August and September of 1997. Cx. (Melanoconium) spp. populations were constant throughout the year. High Culicidae population density could bring problems to quality of human life, thus strong measures to avoid and control of mosquito population growth in the lake are recommended.
Bionomic aspects of Pattonella intermutans (Thomson, 1869) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) under laboratory conditions
Authors: Oliveira Vanderleia Cristina de , Mello Rubens Pinto , Santos Rosicleide Fátima Silva
Published: April 2005

Life and fertility tables of Pattonella intermutans (Thomson, 1869) were studied in the laboratory conditions. The flies colonies were maintained at 20-28°C, 80±10% RH and observed daily. Life expectancy was 2.34 weeks for males and 2.33 weeks for females. The survivorship curves presented a type II tendency for females and type III for males. The periods of pre-larviposition and larviposition were of 2.5 and 9.5 weeks, respectively. Using data of the life table of fertility, the following values were obtained: Ro=24.83 times; T= 5.06 weeks; r=0.64 and lambda=1.89. The number of generations of P. intermutans was estimated to be 10.28 generations/year. The females had a high fertility under laboratory contiditions.
Extraction time for soybean isoflavone determination
Authors: Carrão-Panizzi Mercedes C. , Favoni Silvana Pedroso de Goés , Kikuchi Akio
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out on the optimization of the extraction procedures for isoflavones determination in soybean by HPLC. Isoflavones were extracted from 100 mg samples of full fat soybean flour "Kinako" (milled toasted grains). Recovery of average total isoflavones was higher when extraction was performed with agitation(217.2 mg/100g), than without agitation(191.0 mg/100g). Isoflavone extraction without agitation for 1,4, 20 and 24 hours, were equally efficient for total and individual compounds. These results suggested that an efficient isoflavone recovery could be achieved with extraction for one hour with agitation.