bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiopeptides from diagnosis to therapy
Authors: Buscombe John. R.
Published: December 2006

Radiopeptides are playing an increasing role in the diagnosis of disease. Initially based on the somatatostatin system, early research concentrated on identifying tumours of neuroendocrine origin. New techniques with artificial peptides are extending their role into other areas such as thrombus formation and heart disease. It has been shown that radiopeptides have excellent labelling new methods have looked at therapy starting with high activities of In-111 pentetreotide to the development of Y-90 based products and new and novel peptides and radio isotopes. Outside of PET there are the most exciting developments in nuclear medicine.
Technetium-99m nitrido radiopharmaceuticals with unprecedented biological properties
Authors: Duatti Adriano , Boschi Alessandra , Uccelli Licia
Published: December 2006

The chemical methods for the production of technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals containing a terminal TcºN triple bond have been established more than a decade ago. From that time, the chemistry of nitrido Tc-99m complexes has provided a highly efficient tool for the design and preparation of novel classes of diagnostic agents, and a number of potentially useful radiopharmaceuticals have been discovered. In particular, nitrido technetium-99m tracers have been developed for heart perfusion imaging. In this short review, the chemical and biological properties of the neutral myocardial perfusion tracer bis(N-ethoxy, N-ethyl-dithiocarbamato) nitrido Tc-99m (TcN-NOEt) will be summarized along with the preparation and preliminary biological evaluation of the first class of monocationic nitrido technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals exhibiting improved biodistribution properties closer to those expected for an ideal perfusion imaging agent.
Importance of the nutritional status for the interpretation of nuclear medicine examinations
Authors: Moura Egberto Gaspar de , Passos Magna Cottini Fonseca
Published: December 2006

Malnutrition is very prevalent in the Third World, but still in developing Countries and is found in certain communities in developed Countries. Several laboratories examinations are affected by malnutrition. Recently, gestational or neonatal malnutrition were considered to contribute to the development of chronic diseases in adulthood, this phenomena was named programming or metabolic imprinting. Similar consideration were suggested for Nuclear Medicine examinations. Here we review the literature about this aspect and present our own data showing changes in biodistribution of a radiopharmaceutical compound in different animal models of adult malnutrition or caused by maternal malnutrition programming.
Evaluation of DSSAT soil-water balance module under cropped and bare soil conditions
Authors: Faria Rogério Teixeira de , Bowen Walter Truman
Published: December 2006

The performance of the soil water balance module (SWBM) in the models of DSSAT v3.5 was evaluated against soil moisture data measured in bare soil and dry bean plots, in Paraná, southern Brazil. Under bare soil, the SWBM showed a low performance to simulate soil moisture profiles due to inadequacies of the method used to calculate unsaturated soil water flux. Improved estimates were achieved by modifying the SWBM with the use of Darcy's equation to simulate soil water flux as a function of soil water potential gradient between consecutive soil layers. When used to simulate water balance for the bean crop, the modified SWBM improved soil moisture estimation but underpredicted crop yield. Root water uptake data indicated that assumptions on the original method limited plant water extraction for the soil in the study area. This was corrected by replacing empirical coefficients with measured values of soil hydraulic conductivity at different depths.
Variation and its distribution in wild cacao populations from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Dias Luiz Antônio dos Santos , Barriga Júlio Pontes , Kageyama Paulo Yoshio , Almeida Caio Márcio Vasconcellos Cordeiro de
Published: December 2006

A sample of 64 progenies (320 cacao trees as a whole) from four Brazilian Amazon basins was collected and evaluated on the basis of 15 fruit and seed traits. Nested univariate analyses of variance showed significant variation across progenies and basins. However, most of the variability appeared to be due to among trees and basins differences. The multivariate analysis showed that the differentiation in cacao populations occurred among basins. Since cacao diversity was predominantly found in trees within basins and among basins, one should optimize the collecting process by taking as many trees as possible starting from few progenies and many river basins. These findings seemed to validate gene conservation efforts made to date to preserve the cacao genetic resources and provide insight into the cacao genetic structure aiming cacao collection, management and improvement.
Association between floral bud size and developmental stage in soybean microspores
Authors: Lauxen Mozart da Silva , Kaltchuk- Santos Eliane , Hu Ching -yeh , Callegari- Jacques Sidia Maria , Bodanese-Zanettini Maria Helena
Published: December 2006

This study was carried out to establish the association between floral bud size and the corresponding microspore developmental stages for Brazilian soybean cultivars. Microspore developmental stage distributions were examined in young buds from cv Década, IAS5 and RS7. The data indicated that for a given bud-size group, the microspores of different cultivars were at different developmental stages, with cv RS7 and Década distributed at the youngest and cv IAS5 at the most advanced stages. Microspore stages distribution were also compared among the ten anthers of the same bud of the above cultivars. The ten anthers from a given bud were clearly distributed at different developmental stages. Caution should be exercised when adopting the standard anther culture practice of using the microspore stage of one anther to represent the entire bud.
Physiological changes of Candida tropicalis population degrading phenol in fed batch reactor
Authors: Komarkova Eliska , Paca Jan , Klapkova Eva , Stiborova Marie , Soccol Carlos R , Sobotka Miroslav
Published: December 2006

Candida tropicalis can use phenol as the sole carbon and energy source. Experiments regarding phenol degradations from the water phase were carried out. The fermentor was operated as a fed-batch system with oxistat control. Under conditions of nutrient limitation and an excess of oxygen the respiration activity of cells was suppressed and some color metabolites (black-brown) started to be formed. An accumulation of these products inhibited the cell growth under aerobic conditions. Another impact was a decrease of the phenol hydroxylase activity as the key enzyme of the phenol degradation pathway at the end of the cell respiration activity. This decrease is linked with the above mentioned product inhibition. The cell death studied by fluorescent probe proceeded very slowly after the loss of the respiration activity. The starvation stress induced an increase of the endogenous respiration rate at the expense of phenol oxidation.
Use of modified atmosphere in seafood preservation
Authors: Soccol Marcilene C. Heidmann , Oetterer Marília
Published: December 2006

Fish production has increased in Brazil, mainly the fresh-water aquaculture. However, refrigerated fish presents a relatively short shelf-life (approximately 12 days). In view of the increasing demand for fresh products, there is the need of shelf-life lengthening through a combination of methods in order to minimally expose the product to adverse conditions. The use of the modified atmosphere packaging presents the following advantages: lengthening of the products' shelf-life by 50 to 400%, reduction of economic losses, cost reductions by distributing the product over great distances with the need of fewer shipments and the supply of a better quality product. The purpose of this work was to review and discuss the major effects of the modified-atmosphere packaging, especially carbon dioxide (CO2), on seafood preservation, as well as on the survival and growth of seafood pathogenic organisms.
An outbreak of staphylococcal food poisoning in the Municipality of Passos, MG, Brazil
Authors: Carmo Luiz Simeão do , Dias Ricardo Souza , Linardi Valter Roberto , Sena Maria José de , Santos Deise Aparecida dos
Published: December 2006

An outbreak of staphylococcal food poisoning involving 42 people who had eaten a meal at a restaurant in the Municipality of Passos, Minas Gerais, Brazil, is reported. Thirty-one of the individuals became ill with vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness within 30 minutes after eating the meal. The foods suspected were: chicken pancake, rice, beans, tomato sauce and mashed chick-peas. Large numbers (> 2.0x10(8) CFU/g) of enterotoxigenic staphylococci were present in the chicken pancake. These strains produced enterotoxins A, B and D. Swabs from the nasal cavity and throat and from under the fingernails of food handlers were cultured for the detection of enterotoxigenic staphylococci carriers. Four out of five of them were healthy carriers of enterotoxin A, B, C and D producing Staphylococcus aureus at the sites cultured and one of them was also a nasal carrier of TSST-1 toxin producing S. aureus. These results indicate that the food handlers would have been the source of the food contamination.
Effect of salt on color and warmed over flavor in charqui meat processing
Authors: Youssef Elza Y. , Garcia Carlos E. Rocha , Shimokomaki Massami
Published: December 2006

A combination of salt (NaCl) high concentration and curing salt was investigated for their role in warmed-over flavor (WOF) and color changes during charqui meats processing. WOF was measured by TBARS method in uncured charqui meat (CH) and in cured charqui known in Brazil as Jerked beef (JB). WOF occurred substantially in CH and sodium nitrite was able to inhibit 40-45% (p<0.05) in JB samples stored for 30 days. Color parameters also changed as evaluated by CIELAB system. The a*/b* ratio showed that CH samples presented brown color indicating the formation of metmyoglobin (Fe3+) whilst JB samples presented deep red color an indication of nitrosylmyoglobin (Fe2+) formation. Under cooking, a*/b* ratio indicated the presence of denatured metmyoglobin (Fe3+) in CH and formation of nitrosylmyochromogen (Fe2+) in JB samples. The actual iron state influenced the color of charqui meat and apparently nitrite was able to chelate Fe ions, thus inhibiting development of WOF.
Spatial and temporal variations of diurnal ichthyofauna on surf-zone of São Francisco do Itabapoana beaches, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil
Authors: Gomes Marcelo Paes , Cunha Miguel Siano , Zalmon Ilana Rosental
Published: December 2006

Spatial and temporal variations of diurnal ichthyofauna and the environmental variables influences on its distribution were studied at the surf-zone of three beaches of São Francisco do Itabapoana, northern coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. From August/1999 to August/2000, three beach seine hauls were made monthly, and environmental variables were recorded. A total number of 4,562 fishes (74,155g) were sampled at the three beaches, where estuarine-dependent species prevailed (44%), followed by marine (31%), estuarine (19%) and freshwater species (3%). Species richness, number of individuals and wet weight were significantly higher at Gargaú, followed by Manguinhos and Barra do Itabapoana, respectively. Canonical Correspondence Analysis highlighted influences of the rivers flushing, salinity and plant abundance on the diurnal ichthyofauna distribution and dynamics of São Francisco do Itabapoana surf-zone.
Biomonitoring of Pb and Cd in two impacted watersheds in Southeast Brazil, using the freshwater mussel Anodontites trapesialis (Lamarck, 1819) (Bivalvia : Mycetopodidae) as a biological monitor
Authors: Tomazelli Andréa C. , Martinelli Luiz A. , Avelar Wagner E. P. , Camargo Plínio B. de , Fostier Anne-Helene , Ferraz Epaminondas S. B. , Krug Francisco J. , Santos Júnior Dário
Published: December 2006

Studies were carried out to investigate the contamination of Piracicaba and Mogi-Guaçu River basins (São Paulo State, Southeastern, Brazil) for heavy metals (Cd and Pb), using the limnic bivalve Anodontites trapesialis as a biological monitor. The results showed that the concentrations of Pb were higher than the control group in both basins, showing the bioavailability of this non-essential element in the basins. The concentrations were higher in the Mogi-Guaçu than in the Piracicaba basin, and in the slightly contaminated sites in both basins. There was no correlation between the degree of human impact and Cd and Pb concentrations, it was not possible to infer about concentrations of these heavy metals in the bivalves based only in a broad evaluation of human impact.
Alterations on growth and gill morphology of Danio rerio (Pisces, Ciprinidae) exposed to the toxic sediments
Authors: Fracácio Renata , Verani Nelsy Fenerich , Espíndola Evaldo Luiz Gaeta , Rocha Odete , Rigolin-Sá Odila , Andrade Cássio Arilson
Published: December 2006

The objective of this work was to assess the toxicity of sediment samples from six cascade reservoirs in Tietê river system, in São Paulo State, Brazil, through chronic-partial toxicity bioassays with Danio rerio larvae as test-organisms. Histology of gills and biometric measurements were used to determine the existence of toxicity problems. The alterations on gill morphology here detected were considered of first stage (hyperplasia, lamellar junction and excess of mucous cells) in the first reservoirs and very slight in the last ones. The biometric analysis pointed to inadequate conditions for the growth of the test-organisms when exposed to the sediment of the rivers and upstream reservoirs and also indicated an improvement of environmental conditions along the system.
Water quality in watershed of the Jaboatão River (Pernambuco, Brazil): a case study
Authors: Souza Antonio Donizetti Gonçalves de , Tundisi José Galizia
Published: December 2006

The purpose of the present work was to evaluate anthropogenic influences on the water quality and to offer a subsidy to the establishment of water quality goals in the Jaboatão River Basin (Pernambuco State, Brazil). Eight sampling points were established and were sampled monthly during one hydrological cycle (March/98-February/99). The following variables were analyzed: temperature, pH, conductivity, chlorine, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, fecal coliforms, nitrate, total phosphorus and total solids. The most critical variables related to water quality objectives were dissolved oxygen, fecal coliforms and total phosphorus. Maps of land use, legally protected areas, area industries, and water withdrawals were utilized in order to propose division of the watershed into regions and to provide water quality management information.
Liquid-liquid extraction of enzymes by affinity aqueous two-phase systems
Authors: Yan Xu , Souza Maria Aparecida , Pontes Marcela Z. R. , Vitolo Michele , Pessoa Júnior Adalberto
Published: December 2006

From analytical to commercial scale, aqueous two-phase systems have their application in the purification, characterization and study of biomaterials. In order to improve the selectivity of the systems, the biospecific affinity ligands were introduced. In the affinity partitioning aqueous two-phase system, have many enzymes been purified. This review discusses the partitioning of some enzymes in the affinity aqueous two-phase systems in regard to the different ligands, including reactive dyes, metal ions and other ligands. Some integration of aqueous two-phase system with other techniques for more effective purification of enzymes are also presented.
Direct RAPD evaluation of bacteria without conventional DNA extraction
Authors: Araújo Welington Luiz , Angellis Derlene Attili de , Azevedo João Lúcio
Published: December 2006

The present work reports successful DNA amplification of Pantoea agglomerans and Bacillus pumilus through Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). For this, template DNA was obtained without conventional DNA extraction. The procedure was as follows: cultures grown for 20 hours in 5 mL LB medium were centrifuged and the resulting preparation was suspended in TE buffer. After boiling, the cell suspension was diluted and 2.0 µl were used in reactions of 15 µl. The results showed no significant differences among the RAPD profile of the PCR reactions derived from the boiling and phenol extraction methods, suggesting the utilization of this method for genetic population analysis.
Investigation of risk factors to coronary heart disease in two countryside villages
Authors: Silva Gisleine Elisa Cavalcante da , Bazotte Roberto Barbosa , Curi Rui , Silva Maria Angélica Rafaini Covas Pereira da
Published: December 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors to coronary heart disease in two countryside villages in the State of Paraná, southern Brazil, typical in terms of the poverty and lack of access to public health care. All population was invited to participate in the study. The 462 volunteers (61.3% female, mean age = 42 years) showed high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (7.0%), hypertriglyceridemia (19.0%), hyperglycemia (11.0%), hypertension (30.0%) and obesity (16.0%). The majority of the individuals, during the interview did not report the diseases detected by the testes. The results revealed that the high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus could be consequence of the delayed detection of these diseases or inadequate treatment after diagnostic.
Partial purification and properties of cellulase-free alkaline xylanase produced by Rhizopus stolonifer in solid-state fermentation
Authors: Goulart Antonio José , Carmona Eleonora Cano , Monti Rubens
Published: December 2006

Rhizopus stolonifer was cultivated in wheat bran to produce a cellulase-free alkaline xylanase. The purified enzyme obtained after molecular exclusion chromatography in Sephacryl S-200 HR showed optimum temperature as 45º C and hydrolysis pHs optima as pH 6.0 and 9.0. Xylanase presented higher Vmax at pH 9.0 (0.87 µmol/mg protein) than at pH 6.0 and minor Km at pH 6.0 (7.42 mg/mL) than at pH 9.0.
Aspergillus niveus Blochwitz 4128URM: new source for inulinase production
Authors: Souza-Motta Cristina Maria de , Cavalcanti Maria Auxiliadora de Queiroz , Porto Ana Lúcia Figueiredo , Moreira Keila Aparecida , Lima Filho José Luiz de
Published: December 2006

Aspergillus niveus Blochwitz 4128 URM isolated from sunflower rhizosphere demonstrated a new source of inulinase. The enzyme was produced in culture medium containing inulin as substrate in the concentrations: 10, 15 and 20g L-1. Maximum enzyme activity was obtained in medium containing 20g L-1 inulin. The enzyme was partially purified using ammonium sulphate precipitation, followed by ion charge (DE-32) and molecular exclusion (Sephadex) chromatography. The results showed the optimal pH and temperature of inulinase from crude extract were 4.0 and 4.8 and 45ºC, respectively. The enzyme was purified 34.65 fold with yield of 53.63%. A. niveus 4128URM can be used in the inulinase production with use in the food industries.
Synergic interaction between ascorbic acid and antibiotics against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Cursino Luciana , Chartone-Souza Edmar , Nascimento Andréa Maria Amaral
Published: December 2006

Studies were carried out on in vitro combination of ascorbic acid (AA) with six antibiotics against 12 multi-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. Synergic activity was detected with AA chloramphenicol, kanamycin, streptomycin and tetracycline. Indifference was observed to any antibiotics and antagonism only for chloramphenicol. Results indicated that multiresistant P. aeruginosa was affected by combination of AA and antibiotics. Future research on ascorbic acid-antimicrobial interactions may find new methods to control strains of multiresistant P. aeruginosa.
Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas, 1909: genetic variability of isolates from chronic chagasic patients in the Paraná state, Brazil
Authors: Kopp Rogério Luiz , Miyazaki Márcia , Thomaz-Soccol Vanete
Published: December 2006

The present work had as objective to verify the genetic diversity among strains of Trypanosoma cruzi isolated in chronic chagasic patients in the Paraná state. Fifty patients with compatible clinical symptoms were selected (cardiopathy, megacolon and/or megaesophagus) and that presented positive serological reaction to T. cruzi. Six strains of the protozoan were isolated in hemoculture and identified by electrophoresis in starch thick gel with aid of 14 isoenzymes (6PGD; G6PD; ME¹; ME²; ICD; PGM; GPI; GOT¹; GOT²; NP¹; NP²; DIA; MPI and FH). The statistical analysis were accomplished by the softwares NTSYs and UPGMA. Eighty-four electromorphs were individualized and four isoenzymes (ICD, GPI, 6PGD, e PGM) showed compatibility for heterozygosis. The phenetic analysis evidenced the hypothesis of constant evolution (genetic distances = 0.0536 to 0.1429, Hardy-Weinberg = 1.0000 to 0.0769 and differentiation for exact tests = 1.0000 to 0.0658). A great intra-specific genetic diversity in T. cruzi was verified in the isolates obtained in humans and it indicates that the clonet II is associated to the domestic cycle of transmission.
Morphology of the pericarp and seed of Tabebuia chrysotricha (Mart. ex DC.) Standl. (Bignoniaceae)
Authors: Souza Luiz Antonio de , Iwazaki Maisa C. , Moscheta Ismar S.
Published: December 2006

The morphology and anatomy of the fruit and seed of Tabebuia chrysotricha (Mart. ex DC.) Standl. (Bignoniaceae), a species typical of the Atlantic rainforest, is presented and discussed. The fruit was a loculicidal capsule, dehiscing through two slits, liberating a seminiferous column. The dehiscence process of the fruit involved separation tissue and two crossed sclerenchymatous mesocarpic layers (middle and subepidermic). The seed originated from an anatropous, unitegmic and tenuinucellate ovule. It was exotestal and presented polyembriony. The endothelium and endosperm were conserved in the mature seed and protected the embryo. Adventive embryos were made up of hypostase cells.
Contribution to a macromycete survey of the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina in Brazil
Authors: Sobestiansky Georg
Published: December 2006

Collections of macromycetes made in seven municipalities in southern Brazil, viz. six in Rio Grande do Sul and one in Santa Catarina, are listed. They belonged to the Myxomycota (6 spp.), Ascomycota (54 spp.) and Basidiomycota (189 spp.). First records for Brazil could be Battarrea phalloides, Amanita rubescens, Boletus edulis and Mycena filopes, the last three found under exotic Pinus.
Colonization of the Corumbá Reservoir (Corumbá River, Paraná River Basin, Goiás State, Brazil) by the "lambari" Astyanax altiparanae (Tetragonopterinae; Characidae)
Authors: Dias Rosa Maria , Bailly Dayani , Antônio Rosimeire Ribeiro , Suzuki Harumi Irene , Agostinho Angelo Antonio
Published: December 2006

This work aimed to determine which population features were important to the colonization process of Astyanax altiparanae in the Corumbá Reservoir. The species presented wide spatial-temporal distribution, caught in all months and sites. Higher CPE values were recorded upstream from the reservoir during the filling phase. In this phase, reproductive activity was intense upstream and moderate in the tributaries. However, a fall in abundance of juveniles was observed after the formation of the reservoir. Among the most relevant population features to grant a successful colonization were wide geographic distribution, ability to occupy and spawn in lentic habitats and feeding flexibility.
Bacteria and phytoplankton production rates in eight river stretches of the middle Rio Doce hidrographic basin (southeast Brazil)
Authors: Petrucio Mauricio Mello , Barbosa Francisco Antônio R. , Thomaz Sidinei Magela
Published: December 2006

Measurements of bacterial secondary production (BSP), together with primary phytoplanktonic production (PPP) were conducted during dry and rainy seasons, in eight rivers of different orders submitted to different degrees of human impacts (different trophic degree). We aimed to determine and compare the importance of BSP and PPP in carbon fixation in these different lotic ecosystems. Our results showed that the Ipanema River was the most modified system by anthropogenic effluents inputs. These inputs altered the trophic degree and BSP rates of these streams and rivers.
Marsh deer (Blastocerus Dichotomus) reintroduction in the Jataí Ecological Station (Luís Antônio, SP): spatial preferences
Authors: Figueira C. J. M. , Pires J. S. R. , Andriolo A. , Costa M. J. R. P. , Duarte J. M. B.
Published: December 2006

Throughout the latter half of the twentieth century, wildlife habitat destruction and species extinctions have greatly increased. As the number of endangered species grows, the use of reintroduction as a conservation tool against species extinction increases. This study focuses on a 16-month study on marsh deer reintroduced in the Jataí Ecological Station. The animals were radio tagged and tracked daily between December 1998 and April 2000. Displacement activity and spatial preferences were monitored by triangulation. The animals wandered the floodplains inside the protected area and also a floodplain that is part of privately owned property on the western edge of the Jataí Ecological Station. During the study, most of the reintroduced marsh deer preferred the private floodplain area more than the floodplains inside the protected area. This preference revealed the ecological importance of the area and the necessity of its incorporation into the Jataí Ecological Station.
Effect of sub-lethal concentrations of permethrin on ovary activation in the predator Supputius cincticeps (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Lemos W. P. , Medeiros R. S. , Zanuncio J. C. , Serrão J. E.
Published: December 2006

Insecticides may cause mortality and deleterious effects on predatory stinkbugs. For this reason, the effect of five concentrations of permethrin applied on third instar nymphs of Supputius cincticeps (Stål) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) was investigated on ovary activation in this predator. The nymphs received topical application of permethrin in the following concentrations (mg a.i./ml): 10-7, 10-6, 10-5, 10-4, and 10-3. Ovary lengths and oocyte numbers were quantified following first egg mass. Ovary length of S. cincticeps varied from 5.7 mm with 10-4 mg a.i./ml, to 6.4 mm with 10-7 mg a.i./ml, with similar values for the other permethrin concentrations and for the control. The number of oocytes per female varied from 13.5 with 10-3 mg a.i./ml, to 29.2 for the control, with significant differences.The number of oocytes per female of nymphs exposed to a permethrin concentration of 10-5 mg a.i./ml was similar to that of the control.However, the lower number of oocytes per female from nymphs exposed to other concentrations of permethrin suggests that this insecticide may affect the reproductive capacity of this predator. The results obtained are discussed in relation to tolerance of Heteroptera predators to insecticides and possible hormesis occurrence.
Foraging on some nonfloral resources by stingless bees (Hymenoptera, Meliponini) in a caatinga region
Authors: Lorenzon M. C. A. , Matrangolo C. A. R.
Published: December 2006

In a caatinga region the flowers and nonfloral resources visited by highly eusocial bees, stingless beess and Apis mellifera (Africanized honey bee) were studied. During one year, monthly sampling took place in two sites at Serra da Capivara National Park (Piauí State, Brazil), one of them, including the local village, outside the park, and the other inside, using already existing park trails. With the help of entomological nets, all bees were caught while visiting floral and nonfloral resources. At the study sites we observed more stingless bees in nonfloral resources, made possible by human presence. Twelve stingless bee species used the nonfloral resources in different proportions, showing no preference for time of day, season of the year, or sites. During the rainy season, more water sources and abundant flowering plants were observed, which attract stingless bees, even though many worker bees were found foraging in the aqueous substrates while few were observed at water sources. This relationship was higher for stingless bee species than for Africanized honey bees. Paratrigona lineata was represented by few specimens in floral and nonfloral resources and is perhaps rare in this region. Frieseomelitta silvestrii could be considered rare in the floral resources, but they were abundant in nonfloral resources. The variety and intriguing abundance of bees in nonfloral resources suggests that these are an important part of the stingless bee niches, even if these resources are used for nest construction and defense.
Effects of eutrophication on size and biomass of crustacean zooplankton in a tropical reservoir
Authors: Pinto-Coelho R. M. , Bezerra-Neto J. F. , Morais-Jr. C. A.
Published: December 2006

This is a long-term study (1993-1998) on the effects of increasing eutrophication on the crustacean zooplankton structure in a eutrophic reservoir. The study first demonstrates that the eutrophication increase verified is a phenomenon well described by a single abiotic variable: total phosphorus. During the study period, zooplankton suffered extensive qualitative and quantitative changes. Significant size and biomass responses of certain zooplankton groups to the temporal variations of total phosphorus were found. These findings suggest that the variables size and biomass of major zooplankton groups should always be considered simultaneously in order to assess impacts caused by eutrophication on the structure of zooplankton.
Brassinosteroid phytohormones: structure, bioactivity and applications
Authors: Zullo Marco António Teixeira , Adam Günter
Published: December 2006

Brassinosteroids are a new class of plant hormones with a polyoxygenated steroid structure showing pronounced plant growth regulatory activity. This review covers their natural occurrence, biological and chromatographic methods for their detection, biosynthesis and metabolism, biological activity, structure-activity relationships and prospective agricultural uses.
Lead toxicity in plants
Authors: Sharma Pallavi , Dubey Rama Shanker
Published: December 2006

Contamination of soils by heavy metals is of widespread occurrence as a result of human, agricultural and industrial activities. Among heavy metals, lead is a potential pollutant that readily accumulates in soils and sediments. Although lead is not an essential element for plants, it gets easily absorbed and accumulated in different plant parts. Uptake of Pb in plants is regulated by pH, particle size and cation exchange capacity of the soils as well as by root exudation and other physico-chemical parameters. Excess Pb causes a number of toxicity symptoms in plants e.g. stunted growth, chlorosis and blackening of root system. Pb inhibits photosynthesis, upsets mineral nutrition and water balance, changes hormonal status and affects membrane structure and permeability. This review addresses various morphological, physiological and biochemical effects of Pb toxicity and also strategies adopted by plants for Pb-detoxification and developing tolerance to Pb. Mechanisms of Pb-detoxification include sequestration of Pb in the vacuole, phytochelatin synthesis and binding to glutathione and aminoacids etc. Pb tolerance is associated with the capacity of plants to restrict Pb to the cell walls, synthesis of osmolytes and activation of antioxidant defense system. Remediation of soils contaminated with Pb using phytoremediation and rhizofiltration technologies appear to have great potential for cleaning of Pb-contaminated soils.
Phytoremediation: green technology for the clean up of toxic metals in the environment
Authors: Gratão Priscila Lupino , Prasad Majeti Narasimha Vara , Cardoso Patrícia Felippe , Lea Peter John , Azevedo Ricardo Antunes
Published: December 2006

The contamination of the environment by toxic metals poses a threat for "Man and biosphere", reducing agricultural productivity and damaging the health of the ecosystem. In developed nations, this problem is being addressed and solved to some extent by using "green technology" involving metal tolerant plants, to clean up the polluted soils. The use of naturally occurring metal tolerant plants and the application of genetic manipulation, should hasten the process of transferring this technology from laboratory to field. Therefore, it is essential to investigate and understand how plants are able to tolerate toxic metals and to identify which metabolic pathways and genes are involved in such a process. Recent advances in knowledge derived from the "omics", have considerable potential in developing this green technology. However, strategies to produce genetically altered plants to remove, destroy or sequester toxic metals from the environment and the long-term implications, must be investigated carefully.
Dietary intake and health effects of selected toxic elements
Authors: Silva André Luiz Oliveira da , Barrocas Paulo R.G. , Jacob Silvana do Couto , Moreira Josino Costa
Published: December 2006

Anthropogenic activities have being contributing to the spread of toxic chemicals into the environment, including several toxic metals and metalloids, increasing the levels of human exposure to many of them. Contaminated food is an important route of human exposure and may represent a serious threat to human health. This mini review covers the health effects caused by toxic metals, especially Cd, Hg, Pb and As, the most relevant toxic elements from a human health point of view.
Transport and detoxification of manganese and copper in plants
Authors: Ducic Tanja , Polle Andrea
Published: December 2006

Heavy metals like Mn and Cu, though essential for normal plant growth and development, can be toxic when present in excess in the environment. For normal plant growth maintenance of metal homeostasis is important. Excess uptake of redox active elements causes oxidative destruction. Thus, uptake, transport and distribution within the plant must be strongly controlled. Regulation includes precisely targeted transport from the macro-level of the tissue to the micro-level of the cell and organelles. Membrane transport systems play very important roles in metal trafficking. This review provides a broad overview of the long distance and cellular transport as well as detoxification and homeostasis mechanisms of Mn and Cu, which are essential micronutrients but extremely toxic at elevated concentrations.
Nickelophilous plants and their significance in phytotechnologies
Authors: Prasad Majeti Narasimha Vara
Published: December 2006

Nickeliferous soils are invaded predominantly by members of the Brassicaceae, Cyperaceae, Cunoniaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Fabaceae, Flacourtiaceae, Euphorbiaceous, Lamiaceae, Poaceae and Violaceae, and many of these plants are metal tolerant. About 300 Ni hyperaccumulating plants been identified. These members exhibit unusual appetite for toxic metals and elemental defense. Hyperaccumulators provide protection against fungal and insect attack. Investigations suggested that Ni-hyperaccumulation has a protective function against fungal and bacterial pathogens in Streptanthus polygaloides and Thlaspi montanum. Significance of nickelophilous plants and their significance in phytotechnologies are discussed in this paper.
Effects of early and late season defoliation on photosynthesis, growth and yield of mustard (Brassica juncea L.)
Authors: Khan N.A. , Lone P.M.
Published: December 2006

Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is characterized by a large number of leaves in the lower layers. These leaves are poorly illuminated, remain below the light compensation point and abscise at maturity. The effects of removing 50 % of all leaves taken from the lower half of the plant at 40 (pre-flowering) or 60 (post-flowering) days after sowing (DAS) were studied on photosynthesis and growth at 80 DAS and on yield at harvest. A comparison of stomatal and mesophyll effects on photosynthesis upon removal of such leaves was also made. Defoliation at 40 DAS resulted in a higher rate of photosynthesis (P N), growth and yield compared to defoliation at 60 DAS or the no defoliation control. The non-significant variation in stomatal limitation (I S), increased activity of carbonic anhydrase (CA) and constant Ci/Ca ratio in defoliated plants suggest that the main effect on P N was through enhanced mesophyll rather than stomatal effects. Defoliation at 40 DAS caused the greatest emergence of new leaves with rapid growth, which contributed to maximum leaf area as well as leaf and plant dry masses. The favourable effects of defoliation at 40 DAS on photosynthesis and growth were reflected by seed yield and attributing parameters.
Growth, photosynthesis and stress indicators in young rosewood plants (Aniba rosaeodora Ducke) under different light intensities
Authors: Gonçalves José Francisco de Carvalho , Barreto Denize Caranhas de Sousa , Santos Junior Ulysses Moreira dos , Fernandes Andreia Varmes , Sampaio Paulo de Tarso Barbosa , Buckeridge Marcos Silveira
Published: December 2006

Aniba rosaeodora is an Amazonian tree species that belongs to the family Lauraceae. Due to intense exploitation for extraction of essential oils (mainly linalol), A. rosaeodora is now considered an endangered species. On the other hand, there is little information about its ecophysiology which would be useful to support future forest planting programs. Hence, the effect of different light intensities on the growth and photosynthetic characteristics of young plants of A. rosaeodora was studied. Nine-month-old plants were subjected to four light treatments (T1= 10 a 250 µmol.m-2.s-1 / control; T2=500 to 800, T3=700 to 1000 and T4=1300 to 1800 µmol.m-2.s-1 / full sunlight). Allometric variables, gas exchange, contents of pigments and chlorophyll a fluorescence were analysed. As to the relative growth rates, it was found that plants of A. rosaeodora showed higher biomass accumulation when grown under intermediary irradiance conditions (T2). The best photosynthetic performance was achieved under conditions of T3. When growth was correlated with photosynthesis, it was found that plants under treatments T2 and T3 presented better responses in comparison with the lowest (T1) and highest (T4) light extremes. The highest pigment contents were obtained for plants in the shade (T1) and the lowest for those exposed to full sunlight (T4). The photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) was found that only plants in the shade treatment (T1) presented no stress from high irradiance. These findings suggest that both treatments (T1 and T4) altered the function of the A. rosaeodora plants, inhibiting photosynthesis and growth. Plants of A. rosaeodora developed photo-protection mechanisms under full sunlight. However, the species presented better photosynthetic response and biomass gain under intermediary irradiance conditions, displaying relative physiological plasticity, during the seedling phase.
Hand and ultrasonic instrumentation in the treatment of chronic periodontitis after supragingival plaque control
Authors: Chapper Ana , Catão Viviane Vasconcelos , Oppermann Rui Vicente
Published: December 2006

This study compared the clinical effects of hand or ultrasonic scaling and root planing on the treatment of chronic periodontitis. After supragingival plaque control, twenty patients were examined by a blinded and calibrated examiner for probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Experimental teeth were allocated to the following subgingival treatment groups according to PPD: 1) hand instrumentation; 2) hand instrumentation with irrigation; 3) ultrasonic instrumentation; 4) ultrasonic followed by hand instrumentation. Time used in the procedures was recorded. Follow-up examinations were performed at 30 and 90 days after treatment. Each patient's individual BOP, PPD and CAL means were analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVA. Differences in the instrumentation time were analyzed with 1-way ANOVA. Significance level was established at 5%. All treatments produced significant changes in the clinical parameters. BOP reduced, in proximal surfaces, from 67.21-79.17% at baseline to 45.75-51.54% at 90 days. Significant reductions were also found for PPD and CAL in all groups, both in proximal and free surfaces. Reductions in mean PPD at 90 days ranged from 0.92 to 1.14 mm for the free surfaces and from 1.01 to 1.35 mm for proximal surfaces, whereas reductions in CAL ranged from 0.43 to 0.82 mm and from 0.60 to 0.73 mm for free and proximal surfaces, respectively. Mean instrumentation time ranged from 4.77 to 5.30 minutes. No statistically significant differences were found among the four study groups. It can be concluded that the four methods of subgingival instrumentation were equally efficacious in the improvement of the studied clinical parameters.
The influence of cigarette smoke inhalation on bone density: a radiographic study in rats
Authors: César-Neto João Batista , Benatti Bruno Braga , Manzi Flávio Ricardo , Sallum Enilson Antônio , Sallum Antônio Wilson , Nociti Junior Francisco Humberto
Published: December 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of cigarette smoke inhalation (CSI) and its cessation on tibiae bone quality. Forty-one male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: Group 1 - control (n = 14), Group 2 - 3 months of CSI and 2 months without exposure to CSI (n = 12), and Group 3 - 5 months of CSI (n = 15). At the end of the experimental period, the animals were sacrificed, the tibiae removed and immediately radiographed for photodensitometric analysis. The results showed that continuous exposure to cigarette smoke promoted a significantly reduced bone density (p < 0.05) (3.22 mm Al eq ± 0.58; 2.93 mm Al eq ± 0.45; 1.86 mm Al eq ± 0.35; for groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively). Similar levels of bone density were observed for the control and cessation groups (groups 1 and 2 - p > 0.05). Thus, within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that CSI may affect tibiae bone quality, and CSI cessation results in a return towards the level of the control group.
Sustainable energy? A feasibility study for Eastside, Birmingham, UK
Authors: Hunt D. V. L. , Jefferson I. , Jankovic L. , Hunot K.
Published: December 2006

Eastside, a 130 ha brownfield site located to the eastern side of Birmingham's city centre, is undergoing social, economic and environmental changes, driven mainly through public and private investment estimated to be worth £6 billion. The regeneration programme is well under way and it aims to turn a once deprived inner-city area into the regions first ‘sustainability quarter’ Achieving a sustainable quarter, in terms of energy, will require reductions to be made in energy demands compared to typical practice, for example through more thermally efficient buildings and utilisation of low-energy technologies. In addition it will require these demands to be met through renewable technologies rather than fossil fuels. This paper presents estimates for the total energy demands from the various developments planned within Eastside assuming typical and good-practice scenarios. The paper then assesses the feasibility of introducing various renewable energy supply technologies and combined heat and power (CHP) technologies in order to meet these demands. Finally the paper presents a simplified costing scheme for assessing the potential of renewable technologies to secure energy supplies while limiting carbon emissions. The renewable technologies are compared directly, aiming at providing an independent viewpoint for decision makers when considering which technologies to adopt. While the study focuses on Eastside, the lessons learned from this study are vitally important for redevelopment programmes being undertaken elsewhere.
Carbon reduction strategies at University of East Anglia, UK
Authors: Tovey K. , Turner C. H.
Published: December 2006

Reducing the adverse effects of global warming and climate change is a critical issue. For the past 15 years the University of East Anglia has been addressing these concerns through a multi-pronged approach using technical means of low-energy building design, installing renewable energy sources, good energy management and raising awareness. Through good energy management, the university has been able to reduce the energy consumption of already low-energy buildings by as much as 50%. A large-scale building-integrated photovoltaic (PV) array has been installed along with on-site generation of heating, cooling and electricity via a 3 MW combined heat and power (CHP) plant and, recently, an adsorption chiller. In this paper, potential improvements in a more effective utilisation of PV electricity will also be discussed, as will future plans to reduce carbon emissions by installing further sources of renewable energy. The last part of this paper focuses on the CRed (Community Carbon Reduction) Programme established in 2003 and based at the university. The CRed programme takes up this challenge through innovative and integrated ways in promoting a low carbon economy and, in particular, promoting awareness.
Alteration of normal cellular profiles in the scleractinian coral (Pocillopora damicornis) following laboratory exposure to fuel oil
Authors: Rougée Luc , Downs Craig A. , Richmond Robert H. , Ostrander Gary K.
Published: December 2006

Petroleum contamination from oil spills is a continuing threat to our ocean's fragile ecosystems. Herein, we explored the effects of the water-soluble fraction of crude oil on a stony coral, Pocillopora damicornis (Linneaeus 1758). We developed methods for exposing corals to various concentrations of crude oil and for assessing the potential molecular responses of the corals. Corals were exposed to water-accommodated fraction solutions, and appropriate cellular biomarkers were quantified. When compared to the “healthy” control specimens, exposed corals exhibited shifts in biomarker concentrations that were indicative of a shift from homeostasis. Significant changes were seen in cytochrome P450 1-class, cytochrome P450 2-class, glutathione-S-transferase-pi, and cnidarian multixenobiotic resistance protein-1 biomarkers, which are involved the cellular response to, and manipulation and excretion of, toxic compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. A shift in biomarkers necessary for porphyrin production (e.g., protoporphyrinogen oxidase IX and ferrochelatase) and porphyrin destruction (e.g., heme oxygenase-1 and invertebrate neuroglobin homologue) illustrates only one of the cellular protective mechanisms. The response to oxidative stress was evaluated through measurements of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase-1 and DNA glycosylase MutY homologue-1 concentrations. Likewise, changes in heat shock protein 70 and small heat shock proteins indicated an adjustment in the cellular production of proteins. Finally, the results of this laboratory study were nearly identical to what we observed previously among corals of a different species, Porites lobata, exposed to an oil spill in the field after the grounding of the Merchant Vessel Kyowa Violet.