bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of solubility, disintegration, and dimensional alterations of a glass ionomer root canal sealer
Authors: Carvalho-Júnior Jacy Ribeiro , Guimarães Luiz Fernando L. , Correr-Sobrinho Lourenço , Pécora Jesus D. , Sousa-Neto Manoel D.
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate the glass ionomer cement Ketac-Endo (K) compared with Endofill (E), N-Rickert (N), and Sealer 26 (S) in terms of disintegration, solubility, and dimensional alteration properties, based on ADA Specification No 57. For dimensional alterations, 12-mm high cylindric specimens measuring 6 mm in diameter were prepared and left to stand for a period corresponding to three times the setting time. These specimens were immersed in 30 ml of deionized distilled water after measuring their length with a caliper. Thirty days later, the sample was removed from the container, dried and measured again for length to determine the percent of dimensional alteration. For solubility and disintegration, 1.5-mm thick cement samples measuring 20 mm in diameter were prepared and left to stand for a period corresponding to three times the setting time. The samples were weighed and immersed in 50 ml of deionized distilled water. After seven days, the samples were removed, dried and weighed again to determine the mass loss of each sample, expressed as percentage of original mass. This was considered to correspond to solubility and disintegration of cement. The results were: dimensional alteration: E (+0.14), K (-0.24), N (+0.23), S (+3.26); for disintegration and solubility: E (3.90), K (9.90), N (3.00), S (0.25). We concluded that the dimensional alteration of all cements conformed to ADA standards; Endofill and Ketac-Endo sealers presented higher values for disintegration and solubility than ADA recommendations. Obturating a root canal with a sealer that presents low disintegration and low contraction could minimize the penetration of fluids into the root canal system, thus sealing the space hermetically.
Composition of dental plaque formed in the presence of sucrose and after its interruption
Authors: Cury Jaime Aparecido , Marques Aline Soler , Tabchoury Cíntia Pereira Machado , Del Bel Cury Altair Antoninha
Published: April 2005

Since dental plaque reservoirs of fluoride (F), calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphorus (Pi) are susceptible to decreases in pH, this in situ crossover study was conducted to test the hypothesis that the low concentration of these ions in plaque, formed in the presence of sucrose, could be attributed merely to the fermentation of this sugar. Eleven volunteers wore palatal appliances containing 6 human enamel blocks during two stages. In each stage, the treatments were either 20% sucrose solution or distilled deionized water, which were dripped onto the blocks 8 times a day. After 28 days, in each stage, the dental plaque formed on two blocks was collected, the treatment was inverted and after a further 24 and 48 h, the biofilm formed was collected from the other blocks. The concentration of acid-soluble F, Ca and Pi, and the concentration of insoluble polysaccharide (IP) were determined in the dental plaque. Statistically lower concentrations of F, Ca and Pi, and a higher concentration of IP were found in the 28-day biofilm formed in the presence of sucrose than in its absence; after the treatment inversion the change in F, Ca and Pi was not statistically significant, but the IP concentration changed significantly. The hypothesis was rejected because change in concentration of F, Ca and Pi is not due to fermentation of the sucrose.
Morphological alterations of the parotid gland of rats maintained on a liquid diet
Authors: Leal Soraya Coelho , Toledo Orlando Ayrton de , Bezerra Ana Cristina Barreto
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this study was to analyze the morphological alterations that occurred in the parotid glands of rats maintained on a liquid diet compared to a solid diet. Thirty-six animals were randomly divided into two groups. The control group received a solid diet, and the experimental group received a liquid diet. The animals were killed after 8, 15 and 30 days. The glands were prepared for inclusion in paraffin and analyzed with a light microscope. The results showed a statistically significant reduction of the parotid gland weight of the animals from the experimental group compared to the control group at 15 and 30 days. The strongest morphological alteration displayed was the presence of cytoplasm vacuoles on the parotid glands of the animals maintained on the liquid diet. Specific stain techniques for glycoproteins and mucopolysaccarides could not identify the substances inside the vacuoles observed in the experimental animals. We conclude that a liquid diet caused atrophy of the parotid gland after 15 and 30 days.
Cross-sectional evaluation of clinical parameters to select high prevalence populations for periodontal disease: the site comparative severity methodology
Authors: Souza Sérgio Luís Scombatti de , Taba Jr. Mario
Published: April 2005

Epidemiological studies have shown strong evidence that periodontal disease does not affect all subjects in the same manner. There are subjects and sites with higher risk for disease progression. This study tested parameters to select "a priori" sites and subjects potentially at risk. The data from periodontal clinical examinations of 2273 subjects was used. The clinical loss of attachment was measured in 6 sites per tooth. Using computer software, the patients were distributed into 14 age groups, with intervals of 5 years, from 11 years to greater than 75 years of age. The measure of each site was compared with the average and the median values of the subject age group, with the results indicating site comparative severity (SCS). Three global parameters were calculated: parameter 1 (P1) - percentage of sites with clinical attachment loss > 4 mm; parameter 2 (P2) - percentage of sites with clinical attachment loss > 7 mm; parameter 3 (P3) - percentage of sites with clinical attachment loss surpassing the median value for the age group by 100% or more. There were 1466 (65%) females and 807 (35%) males. Most subjects had P1, P2 and P3 values less than 30%. Parameter 3 allowed a division of the sample similar to that of Parameters 1 and 2, with the advantage of analyzing the subject in relation to his/her age group. It was suggested that the methodology of SCS is useful for selecting a population with a high disease prevalence, and that cut-off lines between 10% and 20% would be appropriate for using Parameter 3.
Assessment of treatment for functional posterior cross-bites in patients at the deciduous dentition phase
Authors: Dutra André Luiz Tannus , Cardoso Antônio Carlos , Locks Arno , Bezerra Ana Cristina Barreto
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to clinically assess the results of treatment for functional posterior cross-bites by means of selective grinding in individuals at the deciduous dentition phase over a period of 12 months. From a total of 1,011 children examined in the 2-to-6-year age bracket, 26 with functional posterior cross-bites were selected. The sample was divided into 2 groups of 13 children each, group 1 receiving the treatment proposed and group 2 serving as the control group. Treatment was followed up by exercises designed to alter the children's muscular memory. The results showed that correction of functional posterior cross-bite was achieved for all the children treated, the correction remaining stable 12 months later. No self-correction of malocclusion occurred among the control group.
Influence of chemical and mechanical polishing on water sorption and solubility of denture base acrylic resins
Authors: Rahal Juliana Saab , Mesquita Marcelo Ferraz , Henriques Guilherme Elias Pessanha , Nóbilo Mauro Antonio Arruda
Published: April 2005

Influence of polishing methods on water sorption and solubility of denture base acrylic resins was studied. Eighty samples were divided into groups: Clássico (CL), and QC 20 (QC) - hot water bath cured; Acron MC (AC), and Onda Cryl (ON) - microwave cured; and submitted to mechanical polishing (MP) - pumice slurry, chalk powder, soft brush and felt cone in a bench vise; or chemical polishing (CP) - heated monomer fluid in a chemical polisher. The first desiccation process was followed by storage in distilled water at 37 ± 1ºC for 1 h, 1 day, 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks. Concluding each period, water sorption was measured. After the fourth week, a second desiccation process was done to calculate solubility. Data were submitted to analysis of variance, followed by Tukey test (p<0.05). Means of water sorption (%) and solubility (%), respectively, were: CL-MP: 1.92 and 0.02; CL-CP: 1.98 and 0.52; QC-MP: 2.31 and -0.05; QC-CP: 2.32 and 0.25; AC-MP: 2.45 and -0.07; AC-CP: 2.43 and 0.41; ON-MP: 2.32 and -0.06; ON-CP: 2.34 and 0.27. Mechanical polishing promoted significantly lower solubility of acrylic resins; initially, water sorption values were higher for chemically polished samples, however, after 4 weeks all groups were similar.
Culture medium for amylase production by toxigenic fungi
Authors: Figueira Edson Luiz Zangrando , Hirooka Elisa Yoko
Published: April 2005

Mycelial growth and amylase production by a mycotoxigenic strain of Fusarium moniliforme and Aspergillus flavus were evaluated in a culture medium containing starch, glycerol, wheat bran or corn. With emphasis on corn, different fractions composed by germ, degermed seed, starch, milky stage corn and the respective starch or supernatant fraction were analyzed for F. moniliforme growth . The medium composed of milky stage corn supernatant promoted the best mycelial growth (p<0.05), and it was used to prepare amylase production medium in the next step. The medium composed with 2% ground corn in milky stage corn supernatant (350g of milky stage corn blended with 250mL water and centrifuged) promoted the highest amylase production, which was at the 10th day of fermentation, both for F. moniliforme (42.32U/mL) and A. flavus (4,745.54U/mL).
Modeling gallic acid production rate by empirical and statistical analysis
Authors: Kar Bratati , Banerjee Rintu , Bhattacharyya Bimal Chandra
Published: April 2005

For predicting the rate of enzymatic reaction empirical correlation based on the experimental results obtained under various operating conditions have been developed. Models represent both the activation as well as deactivation conditions of enzymatic hydrolysis and the results have been analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA). The tannase activity was found maximum at incubation time 5 min, reaction temperature 40ºC, pH 4.0, initial enzyme concentration 0.12 v/v, initial substrate concentration 0.42 mg/ml, ionic strength 0.2 M and under these optimal conditions, the maximum rate of gallic acid production was 33.49 mumoles/ml/min.
Evaluation of oat extracts on the efficiency of lime in soil
Authors: Cassiolato Marcelo E. , Meda Anderson R. , Pavan Marcos A. , Miyazawa Mário , Oliveira José C. de
Published: April 2005

The low mobility of the soluble components of surface-applied lime, limits their ability to reduce subsoil acidity in variable charge soils. Laboratory experiments were conducted with brazilian Oxisol to evaluate the effect of oat extracts on the mobility of surface applied calcium in form of CaCO3. The following oat cultivars were evaluated: Argentina 5VL3, UPF 90H400-2, IAPAR 61, IA96101-b, SI 83400, EMBRAPA 29, LD 9102, FAPA 1, ER 93247, ER 90148, ER 89144, ER 93152, Alpha 94124, Alpha 94206 and Preta comum. Oat extracts and lime were applied at rates of 10 and 5 Mg ha-1, respectively. Effect of lime without plant extracts on soil acidity was limited in the upper 10 cm of the profile. Lime in the presence of oat extracts increased pH and Ca ex and decreased Al ex about 20cm deep. The SI83400 and UPF90H400-2 were the best oat extracts as Ca-carrier into the acid soil profile. The results suggested that soluble organic compounds from oat extracts are mobile and capable of detoxifying acid subsoil, by increasing liming efficiency.
Influence of temperature and diet on the development of Ulomoides dermestoides (Fairmaire, 1893) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Diaperinae)
Authors: Marinoni Renato C. , Ribeiro-Costa Cibele S.
Published: April 2005

Ulomoides dermestoides (Fairmaire, 1893) develops in stored food products (peanuts, maize, oats, rice, sorghum, etc.) and breeds successfully in the laboratory. To determine the best conditions for development, experiments were set up in different temperatures and diets, similar to storage conditions of peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.). The higher viability of individuals and the shorter developmental time were observed in the diet composed of hulls and seeds of fruits at 21 and 24°C.
Alleviating soil acidity through plant organic compounds
Authors: Meda Anderson R. , Cassiolato Marcelo E. , Pavan Marcos A. , Miyazawa Mário
Published: April 2005

A laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of water soluble plant extracts on soil acidity. The plant materials were: black oat, oil seed radish, white and blue lupin, gray and dwarf mucuna, Crotalaria spectabilis and C. breviflora, millet, pigeon pea, star grass, mato grosso grass, coffee leaves, sugar cane leaves, rice straw, and wheat straw. Plant extracts were added on soil surface in a PVC soil column at a rate of 1.0 ml min-1. Both soil and drainage water were analyzed for pH, Ca, Al, and K. Plant extracts applied on the soil surface increased soil pH, exchangeable Ca ex and Kex and decreased Al ex. Oil seed radish, black oat, and blue lupin were the best and millet the worst materials to alleviate soil acidity. Oil seed radish markedly increased Al in the drainage water. Chemical changes were associated with the concentrations of basic cations in the plant extract: the higher the concentration the greater the effects in alleviating soil acidity.
Histological analysis of the callogenesis and organogenesis from root segments of Curcuma zedoaria Roscoe
Authors: Mello Marcia O. , Melo Murilo , Appezzato-da-Glória Beatriz
Published: April 2005

Callus was induced from root segments taken from in vitro grown plants of Curcuma zedoaria Roscoe. The explants were cultured on agar-solidified Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 13.4muM of alpha-naphthaleneacetic acid and 2.2muM of 6-benzylaminopurine at 25ºC in the dark. Histological analysis revealed that callus was formed from the hypertrophied cortical parenchyma cells of the explant. Some of these cells underwent division while the surrounding cells accumulated starch. Callus was capable of shoot bud regeneration after 70 days when it was transfered to liquid medium of the same composition. After 30 days in liquid medium, buds developed from nodular structures. The adventitious shoots developed extensive root systems when they were placed on agar-solidified Murashige and Skoog medium without growth regulators at 25º C in the light. The establishment of these plantlets in soil was about 95%.
A chemically defined medium for production of actinomycin D by Streptomyces parvulus
Authors: Queiroz Sousa Maria de Fátima Vieira de , Lopes Carlos Edison , Pereira Júnior Nei
Published: April 2005

A chemically defined medium consisting of D(+)fructose, L(-)threonine, K2HPO4, MgSO4.7H2O, ZnSO4.7H2O, CaCl2.2H2O, FeSO4.7H2O and deionized water, was developed to maximize the synthesis of actinomycin D by the Streptomyces parvulus DAUFPE 3124 strain. This medium resulted in the maximum antibiotic concentration of 133mg/L while using the original medium the production of actinomycin D was poor not surpassing 43mg/L.
Purification and properties of asparaginase from the testa of immature seeds of pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Chagas Eliana P. , Sodek Ladaslav
Published: April 2005

A K+-dependent asparaginase (E.C. 3.5.1.1.) was purified 1328-fold from the testas of immature pea seeds (Pisum sativum L., var. Bolero) and characterized. Antibodies raised against purified asparaginase cross-reacted with the putative asparaginase band in Western blot analyses of semi-purified extracts. However, for crude extracts of pea testas, a cross-reaction was obtained with at least four protein bands, one of which was asparaginase protein. Affinity-purified antibodies to the four strongest bands of crude extracts were fairly specific for the bands from which they were purified, suggesting a mixture of specific antibodies. The Mr of asparaginase was 69,000 by Sephacryl S200 chromatography and also by mobility on native PAGE relative to BSA. There was no evidence for dissociation into subunits on SDS-PAGE, suggesting a monomeric protein of Mr 69,000. Other properties include an apparent Km of 2.4 mM, pI between 4.5 and 5, and competitive inhibition by aspartate and glycine.
Phytochrome and temperature control of seed germination in Muntingia calabura L. (Elaeocarpaceae)
Authors: Leite Idalina T. de A. , Takaki Massanori
Published: April 2005

The temperature range of germination of seeds of Muntingia calabura L. was 15-35° C and the optimum temperature at 35° C where more seeds germinated at short period. The fluence response curves demonstrated the involvement of phytochrome in the control of germination through the low fluence response. The effect of photoperiod showed that the species need long daily exposures to white light and that shade light inhibited completely seed germination, confirming as pioneer species that colonized only large gaps in the forest.
Random amplified polymorphisms between two South American subspecies of rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus collilineatus and Crotalus durissus terrificus)
Authors: Echeverrigaray Sergio , Grazziotin Gilberto , Grazziotin Felipe , Agostini Gustavo
Published: April 2005

The present work was made to determine the suitability of RAPD analysis for the identification of specimens of two subspecies of South American rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus terrificus and Crotalus durissus collilineatus). The 11 arbitrary primer sequence tested amplified a total of 161 bands, of which 31% were polymorphics when compared with Crotalus specimens. The combining results from different primers allowed the identification of all the specimens under analysis. Several characteristic bands of each subspecies were identified. Dendrogram, based on RAPD markers, show three groups that corresponded to the subspecies of Crotalus, and to Bothrops jararaca specimen.
Main Stem and Tiller Contribution to Wheat Cultivars Yield Under Different Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Destro Deonisio , Miglioranza Édison , Arias Carlos Alberto Arrabal , Vendrame Jefferson Marcos , Almeida José Carlos Vieira de
Published: April 2005

The present study was carried out to determine the contribution of main stems and tillers to the total yield of two wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.), Cocoraque and BH-1146, under two water treatments: a) normal field conditions, and; b) irrigation, in Londrina, PR, Brazil. The experiment was an eight replication randomized complete block design with treatments arranged in split-plots. Data on total grain yield, main stem grain yield, tillers grain yield, the ratio between tiller and total grain yield, yield components and other 17 traits were collected. The cultivar BH-1146 had a higher total grain yield in relation to Cocoraque under normal field conditions; i, e., under water stress. Main stem grain yield responded positively and significantly to irrigation which was the main cause of increased yield in both cultivars. The tiller grain yield contributed little to the total yield.
Morphology and Anatomy of the Flowers of Trichilia catigua A. Juss., T. elegans A. Juss. and T. pallida Sw. (Meliaceae)
Authors: Souza Luiz A. de , Moscheta Ismar S. , Mourão Káthia S. M. , Silvério Adriano
Published: April 2005

Morphological and structural features of flowers of Trichilia catigua A. Juss., T. elegans A. Juss. and T. pallida Sw. (Meliaceae) are presented here with the purpose to stimulate future reproductive and preservation studies of these brazilian native species. Anthesis occurred from April to August in T. catigua, January to May in T. pallida and September to January in T. elegans. Sepals and petals presented a papillose and pilose epidermis and a parenchymatous mesophyll. Male flowers presented pistillodes with abortive ovules and a staminal tube with tetrasporangiate anthers. Anther wall had a papilose epidermis, a fibrous endothecium, two middle layers and a secretory tapetum. Female flowers presented antherodes and bi - or tricarpellate syncarpous pistils. Ovary had a simple structure with anatropous, bitegmic ovules. Style was hollow or solid and the stigma was constituted by uni - or bicelullar trichomes. Strictly dioecious specimens were not found in the study area.
Submicroscopical Features of Leaves of Xyris Species
Authors: Sajo Maria das Graças , Machado Silvia Rodrigues
Published: April 2005

The leaf ultrastructure of five Xyris species were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and histochemical methods. All studied leaves show some features in epidermis and mesophyll, which were of considerable adaptative significance to drought stress. Such features included the occurrence of a pectic layer on the stomatal guard cells and the presence of a network of pectic compounds in the cuticle. Pectic compunds were also in abundance in lamellated walls of the mesophyll cells and on the inner surface of the sclerified cell walls of the vascular bundle sheaths. There were also specialized chlorenchymatous "peg cells" in the mesophyll and drops of phenolic compounds inside the epidermal cells.
Cowpea Vicilins: Fractionation of Urea Denatured Sub-Units and Effects on Callosobruchus maculatus F. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) Development
Authors: Mota Antônio Chagas , Fernandes Kátia Valevski Sales , Sales Maurício Pereira , Flores Victor Martin Quintana , Xavier-Filho José
Published: April 2005

Vicilins (7S storage globulins) isolated from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) seeds which were susceptible (S) and resistant (R) to the cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus F., Coleoptera: Bruchidae) were denatured by urea and fractionated by ion-exchange chromatography. Isolated fractions were incorporated in artificial seeds for assessment of their toxicity to C. maculatus. The most acidic fractions of both susceptible (CE-31 cultivar) and resistant (IT81D-1045 line) seeds were shown to affect development and survival of the bruchid. Results indicated that vicilin polypeptides of toxic nature were expressed in both types of storage globulins although at different levels.
Ionically Bound Peroxidase from Peach Fruit
Authors: Neves Valdir Augusto
Published: April 2005

Soluble, ionically bound peroxidase (POD) and polyphenoloxidase (PPO) were extracted from the pulp of peach fruit during ripening at 20°C. Ionically bound form was purified 6.1-fold by DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 chromatography. The purified enzyme showed only one peak of activity on Sephadex G-100 and PAGE revealed that the enzyme was purified by the procedures adopted. The purified enzyme showed a molecular weight of 29000 Da, maximum activity at pH 5.0 and at 40ºC. The calculated apparent activation energy (Ea) for the reaction was10.04 kcal/mol. The enzyme was heat-labile in the temperature range of 60 to 75ºC with a fast inactivation at 75ºC. Measurement of residual activity showed a stabilizing effect of sucrose at various temperature/sugar concentrations (0, 10, 20 %, w/w), with an activation energy (Ea) for inactivation increasing with sucrose concentration from 0 to 20% (w/w). The Km and Vmax values were 9.35 and 15.38 mM for 0-dianisidine and H2O2, respectively. The bound enzyme was inhibited competitively by ferulic, caffeic and protocatechuic acids with different values of Ki,. L-cysteine, p-coumaric and indolacetic acid and Fe++ also inhibited the enzyme but at a lower grade. N-ethylmaleimide and p-CMB were not effective to inhibit the enzyme demonstrating the non-essentiality of SH groups.
Spatial Variation of Bacteria in Surface Waters of Paranaguá and Antonina Bays, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Kolm Hedda Elisabeth , Schoenenberger Maria Fernanda , Piemonte Mariana da Rocha , Souza Patrícia S. de A. , Scühli Guilherme Schnell e , Mucciatto Mariele B. , Mazzuco Roseli
Published: April 2005

Spatial variability in the concentration of total bacteria, saprophytes and coliforms abundance was investigated in surface waters of Paranaguá and Antonina Bays. Six points along a profile from the entrance of Paranaguá Bay to the innermost part of Antonina Bay, were sampled on February 26, 1997. Temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, particulate organic carbon, water transparency and seston were also measured. Determination of total bacterial abundance and biomass were made with the epifluorescent method. Saprophytic bacteria counts were conducted with ZoBell 2216E culture medium with fresh and 32‰ water and the coliform MPN was enumerated with the chromogenic substrate method. Principal component analysis of biotic and abiotic data showed a gradient from the innermost bay to the baymouth bar with an increase in total and halophobic aerobic cultivated bacteria concentration at Antonina Bay. Greatest values of halophilic aerobic cultivated bacteria were found at the bay’s middle part. The greatest fecal coliform number was observed near Paranaguá City. We concluded that regarding bacterial spatial distribution the outer region of the estuary was highly influenced by the adjacent ocean and that the inner part had typical estuarine characteristics.
Natural Diet of Callinectes ornatus Ordway, 1863 (Decapoda, Portunidae) in the Itapocoroy Inlet, Penha, SC, Brazil
Authors: Branco Joaquim Olinto , Lunardon-Branco Maria José , Verani José Roberto , Schveitzer Rodrigo , Souto Flávio Xavier , Vale William Guimarães
Published: April 2005

From January to December 1995, 332 individuals of the Callinectes ornatus species were collected from the Itapocoroy inlet in Penha, Sta. Catarina, Brazil to study its natural diet and the seasonal variations of diet. Results showed a diversified trophic spectrum with a generalized dietary strategy comprising the algae, macrophyta, foraminiferida, mollusca, polychaeta, crustacea, echinodermata, Osteichthyes and NIOM (Nonidentified Organic Matter) groups.
Populational Diversity on Leaf Morphology of Maté (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil., Aquifoliaceae)
Authors: Coelho Geraldo Ceni , Mariath Jorge Ernesto de Araujo , Schenkel Eloir Paulo
Published: April 2005

Maté (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.) is a native plant from southern Brazil and a raw material for beverages. To research on population variability of the species, we compared leaf morphology of three populations from Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Paraná (PR) and Santa Catarina (SC) States. Lamina measurements included area (A), perimeter (P), length (l), maximum width (w), distance between maximum width and lamina base (dw), base angle (BÂ), biomass (m), and the indexes: relative distance of maximum width (dw/l), ratio length/width (l/w), relative perimeter (RP= P / (l + w), rectangular area index (RAI = A / (l x w)) and leaf mass/area (m/A). We verified differences among populations on A (MS<PR=SC), l (MS<PR=SC), w (MSSC) and m/A (MS>PR, MS=SC, PR=SC). The lowest RAI of SC could be explained, at least partially, by a positive correlation between RAI and BÂ (r= 0.6043, p<0.01).
Ontogeny and Structure of the Pericarp of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae)
Authors: Carmello-Guerreiro Sandra Maria , Paoli Adelita A. Sartori
Published: April 2005

The fruit of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi is a globose red drupe with friable exocarp when ripe and composed of two lignified layers: the epidermis and hypodermis. The mesocarp is parenchymatous with large secretory ducts associated with vascular bundles. In the mesocarp two regions are observed: an outer region composed of only parenchymatous cells and an inner region, bounded by one or more layers of druse-like crystals of calcium oxalate, composed of parenchymatous cells, secretory ducts and vascular bundles. The mesocarp detaches itself from the exocarp due to degeneration of the cellular layers in contact with the hypodermis. The lignified endocarp is composed of four layers: the outermost layer of polyhedral cells with prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate, and the three innermost layers of sclereids in palisade.
Water quality of the Canchim’s creek watershed in São Carlos, SP, Brazil, occupied by beef and dairy cattle activities
Authors: Primavesi Odo , Freitas Alfredo Ribeiro de , Primavesi Ana Cândida , Oliveira Haydée Torres de
Published: April 2005

The Canchim’s creek watershed in São Carlos, SP, Brazil, was chosen to evaluate water quality affected by dairy and beef cattle production systems based on tropical pasture. The water samples were collected monthly, during three years, at six sampling points: spring in a tropical forest, spring in an intensive dairy production system, two dam springs, and stream water upward and at the delta. Results showed differences (P<0.01) among sampling points for the mean parameters. True color, hardness, turbidity, electric conductivity, alkalinity, pH, chemical oxygen demand and consumed oxygen explained well differences among sampling points. According to current legislation standards, water quality fitted with most of the established parameters for class 2, with exception of phosphate and iron. The high levels of total phosphorus, except in the forest spring, classified this water in an eutrophic class, even where soil and water conservation practices were considered adequate.
Dolomite lime’s reaction applied on the surface of a sandy soil of the Northwest Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Meda Anderson R. , Pavan Marcos A. , Cassiolato Marcelo E. , Miyazawa Mário
Published: April 2005

Low Ca and Mg are serious limitations to crop production in sandy soils of the northwest Paraná, Brazil. Thus soil samples of an Oxisol collected in this region were packed into 30cm long columns. Dolomite lime (2.0, 0.84, 0.30, and < 0.30 mm screen) was added on soil surface, then leached with deionized water. Thereafter, the columns were dismantled and the soil cut into 5cm segments for chemical analysis. Dolomite lime increased pHCaCl2,, KCl-exchangeable Ca and Mg and residual CO3 mostly in the top surface layers. Surface dolomite lime had no effect on pH, Ca, Mg, and CO3 in the leachate, independent on the lime particle size. These results indicated that surface dolomite lime application had no effect on subsoil composition and mostly of the calcium and magnesium carbonates are still unreacted on the soil surface.
Study of Acari and Collembola Populations in Four Cultivation Systems in Dourados - MS
Authors: Mussury Rosilda Mara , Scalon Silvana de Paula Quintão , Silva Sandra Verza da , Soligo Valdirene Regis
Published: April 2005

The impact four cultivation systems on the soil fauna was studied, using Oribatida and Gamasida acarids as bioindicators and collembolan. The research was carried out in experimental fields, located in EMBRAPA - CPAO in Dourados, Centerwest of Brazil from July 1997 to December 1999. The constant pasture system presented smaller impact on the soil fauna followed by agricultural cattle rotation and a direct plantation system. In the conventional plantation series, the populational density of the mesofauna organisms was low, especially collembolan families.
Health Status of Male Adult Wistar Rats from Two Experimental Animal Houses of UFMG: Leukocyte Counts, Feces and Lung Histological Exams
Authors: Andrade Bruno Horta , Chaves Miriam Martins , Ribeiro Angela Maria
Published: April 2005

A study was conducted to compare health status of male adult Wistar rats from two Experimental Animal Houses of UFMG with literature data of SPF (free from specific pathogens) and conventional rats. The animals were divided into two groups: Group I (n=10), rats from the experimental animal houses of FAFICH and Group II (n=10) from ICB and following aspects were studied: a) evident clinical signs (behavior modification, hair loss (alopecia), b) leukocyte counts, c) feces exam and d) histological study of the lungs. The rats did not show clinical signs. However, when compared with SPF and conventional rats, both the groups showed a significant increase (p<0,05) of leukocyte count. On feces exam we detected some parasites and on lung histological exam we observed fungus (Group I) and bacteria (Group II). These results showed that the health status of the rats was not satisfactory and required improvements in the conditions of the animal houses.
Reproductive Strategies of Plagioscion squamosissimus Heckel, 1840 (Osteichthyes Sciaenidae) in the Itaipu Reservoir, Brazil
Authors: Carnelós Regina Cintia , Benedito-Cecilio Evanilde
Published: April 2005

Plagioscion squamosissimus is a dominant species in the Itaipu reservoir and has a significant role in the regional economy. The aim of the present research was the investigation of the curvina's reproductive strategies during the first years of the Itaipu reservoir (November 1983 to October 1989). Collections were undertaken from eleven sampling sites in the reservoir area, left bank tributaries, Paraná River and its tributaries. Species begin the reproduction in the area of influence of the Itaipu reservoir only in 1986. Size of early maturation, local and period of spawning showed gradual variations, with a broadening trend of this activity in the area, and thus guaranteeing success of the species. Mean size of early sexual maturation for the Plagioscion squamosissimus reached 16.2 cm for males and 17.8 cm for females.
[NO TITLE AVAILABLE]
Authors: Metri Rafael , Rocha Rosana Moreira da , Marenzi Adriano
Published: April 2005

Cultivated mussels (Perna perna) were studied to test for the effects of cleaning on their growth. These effects were examined by experimentally cleaning mussels and by changing mussel density. Treatment was performed twice, at two and four months after immerging the ropes. Two months after the first treatment and three months after the second treatment, mussels were harvested and measured (weight, length, width and thickness). Analysis of variance showed that none of the treatments resulted in increased growth of the mussels, nor did increased density result in decreased growth when compared with the control. It was concluded that it was not necessary to clean the shells to increase harvest.
Thermic Variation in Incubation and Development of Pantanal Caiman (Caiman crocodilus yacare) (Daudin, 1802) Kept in Metabolic Box
Authors: Miranda Maristela Parra , Moraes Gentil Vanini de , Martins Elias Nunes , Maia Luis Carlos Pinto , Barbosa Orlando Rus
Published: April 2005

Thirty-two eggs of Pantanal caiman (Caiman crocodilus yacare) (Daudin, 1802) were incubated at 30° C. After 20 days of incubation at 30° C, the remaining eggs were distributed in the following way: seven at 34° C, seven at 32° C, six at 30° C and six at 28° C. At 32° C and 34° C a 100% hatchability was obtained while at 30° C 83.3% and at 28° C 66.6%. After hatching, the animals were kept for 120 days at the same temperature of their final incubation. Weight (g) control and morphometric (cm) analysis were carried out. The statistic design was totally randomized and the data were treated by regression analysis showing a quadratic behavior ( p<0.05). It was found that weight, total length (TTL), tail length (TL), snout- vent length (SVL), head length (HL), eye length (EL), snout length (SL), mid-point snout width (MSW), head width (HW), width of snout at nostrils (NW), distance between limbs (DBL) showed a higher development at the temperature range from 31.2° C to 31.8° C and circumference of belly at 30.0° C.
Dimethoate degradation in plants and during processing of yerba maté leaves
Authors: Schmalko Miguel E. , Ramallo Laura A. , Ferreira Darío , Berlingheri Rubén D.
Published: April 2005

The objective of this research was to study degradation kinetics of dimethoate in plants of Ilex paraguariensis Saint Hilaire (or yerba maté) and during its processing. To determine dimethoate concentration, a capillary gas chromatography technique with a mass selective detector was used. Half-life times in plants ranked between 9.8 and 11.8 days. During processing, with a blanching and two drying steps, dimethoate concentration decayed to a 22.7% of its initial value (in dry basis); while during seasoning step (at 45°C), half-life time was 17.3 days. With these values, preharvest safety interval was determined.
Influence of post harvest processing conditions on yield and quality of ground turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)
Authors: Bambirra Maria Lúcia A. , Junqueira Roberto G. , Glória Maria Beatriz A.
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out to evaluate the influence of post harvest processing conditions on yield and quality of ground turmeric. Rhizomes were peeled, cooked (autoclave or immersion) in water or alkaline media, sliced, dehydrated, ground, sieved, packaged in polyethylene bags and stored for 60 days at room temperature. Yields ranged from 9.84 to 14.51 g of powder/100 g of rhizome with moisture varying from 8.84 to 9.86 g/100 g. Peel removal caused 30% mass loss but the powder obtained had higher intensity of yellow and red. Cooking caused a reduction in dehydration time and provided a powder with lower moisture content, higher levels of curcuminoid pigments and higher Hunter CIE L*, a* and b* values. Cooking by immersion provided higher quality powder compared to autoclave. Use of alkaline media resulted in a product with lower curcuminoid content, and higher intensity of yellow. There was no change in pigment and colour characteristics during storage.
Chemical composition of Pleurotus pulmonarius (Fr.) Quél., substrates and residue after cultivation
Authors: Silva Sueli Oliveira , Costa Sandra Maria Gomes da , Clemente Edmar
Published: April 2005

The cultivation of Pleurotus pulmonarius was carried out on different substrate: cotton waste (A) leaves of Cymbopogon citratus (B) and leaves of Panicum maximum Jacq. (C). The mushroom had a varied chemical composition; nevertheless they contained a good composition for to be used as a good source of protein for human kind. The results showed the higher protein content (29.19%) and fibre (9.0%) for the mushroom that were cultivated on cotton peel. The substrate composition and the residue composition after the mushroom harvest were: Protein for the substrate "A" (10.63% and 9.35%), "B" (7.87% and 4.24%) and "C" (7.55% and 5.90 %); Lipids "A" (4.17% and 2.03%), "B"(2.77% and 3.20%) and "C" (0.91% and 2.05%); Fibres "A" (49.02% and 37.02%), "B" (28.40% and 23.26%) and "C" (37.50% and 26.66%) respectively. The substrate "A" showed 0.048% of iron and "C" 0.14% of magnesium, 0.31% of potassium and 0.26% of calcium. In the substrate "B" the quantity of the minerals were very low in comparison to the other substrates. The residues after the harvest of mushroom could be used as fertiliser or as complement in the composition for animal feed.
Performance of nymphs and adults of Piezodorus guildinii (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) on soybean pods at different developmental stages
Authors: Oliveira Émerson D. M. , Panizzi Antônio R.
Published: April 2005

A study was conducted in the laboratory to test the suitability of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] pods at different phenological stages of development (R3-R8) on the performance of nymphs and adults of the small green stink bug Piezodorus guildinii (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Nymphs and adults showed better performance when fed on soybean pods during the pod-filling stage (R5-R6), compared to those fed on soybean pods at the remaining stages of development. When fed on soybean pods without seeds (R3-R4) no nymphs survived and no adults reproduced.
Temporal and spatial distribution of the ichthyofauna in two streams of the upper Rio Paraná basin
Authors: Pavanelli Carla Simone , Caramaschi Érica Pellegrini
Published: April 2005

The temporal and spatial distribution of the ichthyofauna was assessed in two streams, Caracu and São Pedro, affluents of the Rio Paraná, from March 1991 through February 1992. Samples were taken along the streams, using sieves (three sites on the Caracu and two on the São Pedro), and gill nets (two sites on the São Pedro). A total of 6,664 specimens belonging to 71 species were captured. CPE was calculated for each fishing gear. The data for cumulative frequency indicated that only the mouths of streams did not reach an asymptote. Constancy analysis showed that occasional and accessory species predominated. The spectrum of spatial diversity indicated that diversity increased toward the mouth of streams and temporal diversity increased in the high water season. The results of correspondence analysis for sieved fishes and Sørensen similarity for netted ones showed that the sites located at the same position on the streams were more similar than between adjacent sites in the same stream.
The influence of water renewal rates on the reproductive and molting cycles of Penaeus paulensis in captivity
Authors: Peixoto Sílvio , Cavalli Ronaldo Olivera , Wasielesky Junior Wilson
Published: April 2005

The present study analyzed the reproduction of wild-caught Penaeus paulensis in relation to its molt cycle. The experimental design consisted of two treatments (continuous water flow and batch renewal) with two replicates. The stocking density in experimental tanks (1.50 x 0.96m) was approximately 7 animals/m², resulting in 4 males (23.9 ± 2.3 g) and 6 females (52.0 ± 5.5 g) per tank. Shrimp had their uropods cut for individual marking and female maturation was induced through the unilateral eyestalk-ablation. The intermolt period of females and males (17.4 ± 3.2 and 17.8 ± 4.6 days, respectively), number of days between molting and the first spawn (6.9 ± 2.8 days) and number of spawns in the intermolt period (1.4 ± 0.5), presented no significant differences (P>0.05) between treatments. No influences on molt cycle or reproductive performance parameters could be related to differences in water quality parameters, especially nitrogenous compounds, suggesting a trend towards reduce water exchange in shrimp maturation. However, a relative decrease in the number of eggs per spawn was observed. This possibly was due to the smaller maturation tanks. The results of P. paulensis molt cycle could be useful for accompaniment and better planning of the reproduction in captivity.
Effect of harvest period on the quality of storage roots and protein content of the leaves in five cassava cultivars (Manihot esculenta, Crantz)
Authors: Sagrilo Edvaldo , Vidigal Filho Pedro Soares , Pequeno Manoel Genildo , Scapim Carlos Alberto , Vidigal Maria Celeste Gonçalves , Diniz Sérgio Paulo Severo de Souza , Modesto Elisa Cristina , Kvitschal Marcus Vinícius
Published: April 2005

The effect of harvest period on the quality of storage roots and leaves of cassava cultivars was determined in an experiment carried out in a randomized complete block design with four replications in a split plot scheme, with five cultivars in the plots and ten harvest times in the subplots. The IAC 13 cultivar had the highest rate of dry matter accumulation in the storage roots and the Mico cultivar the lowest. The period of least dry matter content in the storage roots occurred later for the Fécula Branca, Mico and IAC 14 cultivars, and the minimum starch content in the storage roots occurred later for the Fécula Branca and Mico cultivars. In general, the IAC 13, IAC 14 and Fécula Branca cultivars had higher dry matter content in the storage roots, while higher starch content in the dry and fresh matter were obtained in the Fécula Branca cultivar. The crude protein content in the leaves decreased as the plant aged.
Cellulase activity of a Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegl. strain grown in media containing Carboximetilcellulose or microcrystalline cellulose
Authors: Pereira Júnior José Antônio de Sousa , Correia Marcos José , Oliveira Neiva Tinti de
Published: April 2005

Endoglucanase and exocellobiohydrolase produced b Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegl. strain thatt was cultivated in carboxymetilcellulose (CMC) or microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel) liquid media. The concentration and type of cellulose influenced the enzyme activity and production. Extra-cellular cellobiase activity was not detected in CMC or Avicel media. This enzyme was detected in mycelial extracts only. With 1.7% Avicel liquid medium, the strain did not produce exocellobiohydrolase, but 74 µmol RBBR/mg protein/min was detected with 0.5% Avicel. The substitution of Avicel by 0.5% CMC reduced this activity. Endoglucanase also had maximum activity in 0.5% Avicel medium (approximately 820 UI/mg protein) after 96 h incubation. In supernatants from 0.5% CMC, the maximum activity attained was 200 UI/mg protein only.
Effects of plant lectins on in vitro fibroblast proliferation
Authors: Sell Ana Maria , Costa Celso Paulino da
Published: April 2005

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins that have been isolated from various sources and presented a wide spectrum of biological activities. The effects of four lectins, namely, Phaseolus vulgaris phytohemagglutinin, PHA, wheat germ agglutinin, WGA, Artocarpus integrifolia seed lectins, jacalin and artocarpin, on in vitro fibroblasts proliferation were investigated. The lectins did not influence the initial cell adhesion to the plate. PHA and WGA at 10-20 µg/mL concentrations significantly decreased fibroblasts proliferation. At these concentrations, they caused morphological alterations on cells and over 80 µg/mL, promoted cell death. Neither jacalin nor artocarpin significantly affected cell proliferation.
Effects of the organophosphorous methyl parathion on the branchial epithelium of a freshwater fish Metynnis roosevelti
Authors: Machado Marcelo Rubens , Fanta Edith
Published: April 2005

Gills are vital structures for fish, since they are the main site for gaseous exchange as well as partially responsible for osmorregulation, acid-basic balance, excretion of nitrogenous compounds and taste. Chemicals in the water may alter the morphology of branchial cells of fish that are, therefore, a useful model for environmental impact and ecotoxicology studies. In order to investigate the effects of an organophosphorous compound, methyl parathion, on the gills of the fish, samples of Metynnis roosevelti were exposed to lethal (7ppm) and sublethal (1ppm) doses of Mentox 600 CE. Through light and scanning electron microscopy, shrinking of the branchial epithelium, followed by detachment and hyperplasia were observed. Externally, the branchial filaments presented the gradual disappearance of microridges. Even in sublethal doses, the organophosphorous reduced the health and fitness of these fish, as consequence of secondary effects derived from changes in the branchial epithelium, impairing oxygenation and ionic balance of the organism.
Limnological study of Piraquara river (Upper Iguaçu basin): spatiotemporal variation of physical and chemical variables and watershed zoning
Authors: Marques Paulo Henrique C. , Oliveira Haydée Torres de , Machado Eunice da Costa
Published: April 2005

The Piraquara river basin (Upper Iguaçu River basin - Brazil) was studied as an ecological system throughout a complete seasonal cycle, comprising the rainy and dry season. Analyzes of 16 physical and chemical water variables (dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, temperature, pH, conductivity, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, ortophosphates, nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, reagent silicate, total suspended solids, chlorophyll - a, flow velocity and depth) showed correlations between water composition and watershed physiographic features, and the Principal Component Analysis allowed to evidence spatial gradients and seasonal differences. The sampling points were clustered in patches with homogeneous behavior, according to ecologycal concepts: patch 1, with strong influence of Serra do Mar mountains; patch 2, medium course, under Piraquara Dam influence and patch 3, under wetlands influence. Two main factors of serial discontinuity were identified: the Piraquara dam effect and the influence of wetlands. The watershed zoning based on limnological characteristics seeks to subsidize research and biomonitoring for this public springs area.