bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molluscicidal activity of crown of Christ (Euphorbia splendens var. hislopii) (Euphorbiaceae) latex submitted to pH variation
Authors: Vasconcellos Maurício Carvalho , Santos José Augusto Albuquerque dos , Silva Ivonise Paz da , Lopes Fátima Eliana Ferreira , Schall Virgínia Torres
Published: April 2005

Laboratory and field bioassays have confirmed the specificity of the molluscicidal activity of the Euphorbia splendens var. hislopii latex (crown of Christ) (Euphorbiaceae) over snails of the species Biomphalaria glabrata, B. tenagophila, B. straminea, B. pfeifferi and Bulinus sp. in the control of Schistosoma mansoni. In the present study, the effect of the pH variation on lethal concentration (LC90) over B. tenagophila was evaluated. Bioassays with the aqueous solutions of the latex ranging from 0.4 to 12 µl/l were adjusted for pH of 5.0; 6.0; 7.0 and 8.0, and tested in accordance with methods standardized by World Health Organization. The results obtained indicated that the minor concentration of the latex occurred at pH 6.0 (LC90 = 3.2 µl/l) and the maximum at pH 8.0 (LC90 = 10.3 µl/l). Lethal concentrations adjusted for pH 5.0 and 7.0 were 3.4 µl/l and 4,7µl/l, respectively. From the results it could be concluded that the molluscicidal toxicity was not altered when the concentrations were adjusted for pH 5.0 and 6.0, as we observed that mortality rate was 100% starting at a concentration of 2.0 µl/l, not the same for the concentrations with adjustment for pH 7.0 and 8.0.
Seafood as functional food
Authors: Soccol Marcilene C. Heidmann , Oetterer Marília
Published: April 2005

Functional food presents specific physiological properties, supplies nutrients and can be naturally found in formulated food or added to it. Seafood plays an important role in human diet, representing the largest stock available of w-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA). Scientific researchers have intensified their studies on fatty acids due to their importance in preventing and/or curing diseases, especially cardiovascular and inflammatory ones. This review describes the most important aspects of w-3 fatty acids found in fish, as well as their roles in the mechanism involved in the prevention and control of diseases.
Flour mixture of rice flour, corn and cassava starch in the production of gluten-free white bread
Authors: López Ana Cristina Ballesteros , Pereira Accacia Julia Guimarães , Junqueira Roberto Gonçalves
Published: April 2005

The use of rice flour corn and cassava starch was evaluated in several formulations aiming to find a flour mixture to replace wheat flour in the production of free-gluten white bread. Production parameters were evaluated through sensory analysis. The resulting breads were evaluated taking into account physical parameters (crumb appearance, specific volume and moisture) and sensorial parameters (flavor, appearance, crumb texture, crust color and satisfaction). Regarding flavor and moisture, breads prepared with the three different ingredients were not statistically different at 5% probability by the Tuckey test. However, they differed significantly regarding the specific volume, crumb texture, crust color, degree of satisfaction and external appearance. Rice flour bread presented the best parameters, being preferred by the sensory evaluation panel, followed by corn starch bread and cassava starch bread. Breads prepared with rice flour resulted in a softer product, presenting a better consistency with small alveoli homogeneously distributed. As far as crumb texture was concerned, corn starch bread presented larger alveoli, while cassava starch resulted in bread with expandable and gummy crumb, with granulation without alveoli, and undesirable sensorial characteristics. Production parameters were established based on these results and a mixture of flours, composed by 45% rice flour, 35% corn starch and 20% cassava starch presented good results originating bread with crumb formed by uniform and well distributed cells, and pleasant flavor and appearance.
Tree species sprouting from root buds in a semideciduous forest affected by fires
Authors: Rodrigues Ricardo R. , Torres Roseli B. , Matthes Luis A. F. , Penha Alessandra S.
Published: April 2005

Tree species which sprouted from root buds were identified in a 3.6ha area of a Semideciduous Seasonal Forest fragment in Campinas, São Paulo State (22° 55' S and 47° 05' W), affected by several fires. Connection between sprouts and main trunk root system was confirmed by digging and root exposure. Twenty seven tree species with root buds were identified, with a high proportion of Leguminosae species. The majority of identified species (45%) were characteristic of initial secondary succession stages. Distances between sprouts and main trunks varied from 0.6m (Guettarda viburnioides Cham. and Schltdl- Rubiaceae.) to 14.0m (Colubrina glandulosa Perkins- Rhamnaceae). These results lead discussions about natural and/or human-made disturbances influence on the sprouting from root buds, and its possible consequences in forest dynamics, besides the spatial occupation, and structure of populations of tree species which present their potential capacity of regeneration.
Zinc detoxification by a cyanobacterium from a metal contaminated bay in Brazil
Authors: Andrade Luciana , Keim Carolina N. , Farina Marcos , Pfeiffer Wolfgang C.
Published: April 2005

We describe here the trapping of zinc in polyphosphate granules of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis aquatilis NPBS-3. Cells were cultured in 25 µM of zinc chloride and prepared for electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. Some ultrastructural features were changed by zinc exposure, the increase of glycogen granules number being the main change. The polyphosphate granules contained phosphorus, sulphur, calcium, iron and zinc. The trapping of zinc in polyphosphate granules seemed to be an effective way of detoxifying the metal and surviving in the bay. As a non-specific mechanism, these polyphosphate granules could also be effective in trapping other metals in excess.
Occurrence and parasitism of aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on cultivars of irrigated oat (Avena spp.) in São Carlos, Brazil
Authors: Ronquim Júlio Cesar , Pacheco Josué Marques , Ronquim Carlos Cesar
Published: April 2005

The interactions between aphids and their Hymenopteran parasitoids on irrigated oats as well as the response of different cultivars of cereals regarding the resistance to these aphids and the influence on the host/parasitoid relationships were studied during two years in São Carlos, Brazil. Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) was the predominant aphid observed throughout the study, while the other species were rarely found. Five species of parasitic Hymenoptera were found: three primary parasitoids, Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Cresson), Aphidius colemani (Viereck) and Diaeretiella rapae (M'Intosh) and two hyperparasitoids, Syrphophagus aphidivorus (Myer) and Alloxysta brassicae (Ashmead). The UPF 86081 cultivar presented significant results regarding lower Rhopalosiphum padi contamination and higher aphid parasitism rates than those observed on some other cultivars. No significant effect on the percentage variation of parasitoid emergence on the mummified aphids was observed throughout this study.
Screening of melon populations for resistance to Didymella bryoniae in greenhouse and plastic tunnel conditions
Authors: Tsutsumi Cláudio Yuji , Silva Norberto da
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out to evaluate melon populations for resistance to Gummy Stem Blight, caused by Didymella bryoniae for use in breeding programs under greenhouse and plastic tunnel conditions. Were evaluated reactions of half-sib populations of PI 140471 and Anô nº 2 had as with susceptible check Eldorado 300. Plants were inoculated 45 days for needle prickling followed by application of 0.05 ml of 5.0 x 10(5) spores/ml suspension in axis of third and fourth true leaves.Resistance evaluation was made after 90 days of age using a scale varying one to five. PI 140471 and Anô nº 2 progenies were found superior and differed significantly with the checker Eldorado 300 for the F Test. Anô nº 2 possessing multiple resistance to diseases and desirable commercial characteristics, constituted the best resistance source to be used in breeding programs.
Evaluation of possible failure of the mononuclear phagocyte system after total splenectomy in rats
Authors: Marques Ruy Garcia , Petroianu Andy , Oliveira Márcia Betânia Nunes de , Bernardo-Filho Mário , Portela Margareth Crisóstomo
Published: April 2005

Young and adult Wistar rats were submitted to total splenectomy and compared to animals not submitted to any surgical manipulation in order to evaluate the phagocytic function of spleen. The animals were infected with Escherichia coli labeled with technetium-99m and killed 20 minutes later. Liver, lung, spleen and a blood clot sample were taken. No significant differences were found in the percentage of bacterial radioactivity uptake in mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) organs in young and adult splenectomized rats. However, phagocytosis index by macrophages of MPS organs was smaller in splenectomized animals than in control group. Splenectomized rats were associated with a higher blood bacterial radioactivity uptake than animals of the control group (p<0.0001) due to a larger bacterial remnant in the bloodstream. This finding suggested that some failure in the MPS occurred in the absence of the spleen, demonstrating the need to develop alternative surgical techniques for total splenectomy.
Measurement of the gassing power of bakers' yeast: correlation between the dough volume and the incubation time
Authors: Borzani Walter
Published: April 2005

An empirical equation is proposed to correlate the dough volume and the incubation time during cylinder tests using thin flour dough carried out to evaluate the gassing power of compressed yeast. The above equation permitted to correlate the gassing power of the yeast and the proof time, as well as to calculate the specific rate of the dough volume variation at any time. It provided more information regarding the fermentation power of the yeast than the sole value of its gas-producing power. A physical interpretation of the proposed equation is presented.
Majoid crabs community (Crustacea: Decapoda) from infralittoral rocky/sandy bottom of Anchieta Island, Ubatuba
Authors: Mantelatto Fernando L. , Faria Fabíola C. R. , Biagi Renata , Melo Gustavo A. S.
Published: April 2005

The aim of the present study was to characterize the composition of Majoidea crabs inhabiting the infralittoral rocky/sandy bottom of Anchieta Island (Ubatuba), from north coast of São Paulo State. Crabs were collected monthly during 1999 and 2000 by using SCUBA and cages. The occurrence of eight species of majoids (Epialtus brasiliensis, Mithraculus forceps, Mithrax braziliensis, Mithrax hispidus, Mithrax tortugae, Pelia rotunda, Pitho lherminieri and Stenorhynchus seticornis) was registered and corresponded to 24.2% of total of majid crabs recorded in the coast of São Paulo State. Mithraculus forceps, Mithrax tortugae and Stenorhynchus seticornis were most abundant in samples and constituted populations that belonged to the brachyuran community of the studied area. The taxocoenosis of the area was dominated by M. forceps (57.62%). The occurrence of Mithrax braziliensis in the present study enlarged its south distribution to the São Paulo State.
High metal contents in coffee plant organs developed in tubets with different proportions of biosolid composts and carbonized rice hulls
Authors: Franco Elias , Miglioranza Edison , Fonseca Ésio de Pádua
Published: April 2005

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of biosolid composts (BC) and carbonized rice hull (RH) on the production of Coffea arabica L. cv Catuaí Vermelho seedlings (IAC H 2077-2-5-99) grown in tubets. A totally randomized experimental design with five treatments and four replications was conducted in a nursery, to evaluate Co, Ni, Cr, Pb, Cu, Mn and Zn contents in roots, stems and leaves. Higher contents of Cr, Co, Ni, Pb, Cu and Zn were found in roots, while leaves carried the highest content of Mn. Zn in leaves went from average to high in plants developed in BC. In plants developed in RH. Mn content was about four times higher than the adequate concentration. Ni, Co, Cr, Pb and Cu contents found in leaves were considered normal, according to international standards. The best treatment for coffee seedling nutrition was 50% RH + 50% BC.
Application of plant growth regulators at pre-harvest for fruit development of 'PÊRA' oranges
Authors: Almeida Isolina Maria Leite de , Rodrigues João Domingos , Ono Elizabeth Orika
Published: April 2005

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effects of auxins and gibberellins when applied at pre-harvest to the fruit development, and to the ripening and natural fall of the fruit, in 'Pêra' oranges. Trees of Citrus sinensis Osbeck cv. Pêra, 5 years old, were utilized. The treatments applied were: GA3 + 2,4-D 12.5mg L-1 of each; GA3 + 2,4-D 25mg L-1 ; GA3 + 2,4-D 37.5mg L-1; GA3 + NAA 12.5mg L-1; GA3 + NAA 25mg L-1; GA3 + NAA 37.5mg L-1; NAA + 2,4-D 12.5mg L-1; NAA + 2,4-D 25mg L-1; NAA + 2,4-D 37.5mg L-1; and water (control). The treatments were applied 3 times, at intervals of 45 days. The variables evaluated were: rate of natural fall (%), fruit length and diameter (mm), and fresh fruit weight (g). None of the treatments promoved alterations in the development of the fruits, but they did reduce the natural fall rate, when compared to control, up to 78.05%, inhibiting the fruits' abscision as much as 3 months.
Use of a proteolytic enzyme in cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) processing
Authors: Brito Edy Sousa de , Pezoa García Nelson Horacio , Amancio Allan César
Published: April 2005

Protein hydrolysis using an exogenous protease on cocoa nibs was performed to verify the formation of precursors and the effect on cocoa flavour. An experimental design was used to check the influence of temperature (30 to 70 ºC) and enzyme : substrate ratio [E/S] (97.5 to 1267.5 U g-1 of protein). The % Degree of Hydrolysis (% DH) was affected mainly by [E/S] leading to a 4-fold increase (from 5 to 20 %) after 6 hours of treatment. During cocoa nibs roasting, there was a greater consumption of hydrolysis compounds in the sample treated with protease as compared to the control, indicating their participation in the Maillard reaction. An increased perception of chocolate flavour and bitter taste was observed in a product formulated with protease treated cocoa.
Fenologics characteristics of the ‘Siciliano’ lemon tree on two rootstocks influenced by liming and boron addition
Authors: Grassi Filho Hélio , Dechen Antonio Roque , Torquato Elano Marçal , Santos Carlos Henrique dos
Published: April 2005

The current study was developed with disturbed samples of an Oxisol, in which ‘Siciliano’ lemon trees seedlings (C. limon) were grafted on sour orange tree (C. aurantium) and rangpur lime tree (C. limonia). The experiment consisted of three basis saturation levels (50, 70 and 90 percent) and three boron doses (0.5; 1.5 and 4.5 mg dm-3) in the planting with 3x3x2 factorial experimental design with four replications. Mineral composition of the "Siciliano" lemon leaves as well as root system development in sour orange tree were higher than the rangpur lime tree. There was no effect in the interaction basis saturarion level and the boron doses for any of the evaluated parameters.
Genetic control on morphoagzronomic traits in snap bean
Authors: Silva Marlon Peres da , Amaral Júnior Antônio Teixeira do , Rodrigues Rosana , Pereira Messias Gonzaga , Viana Alexandre Pio
Published: April 2005

Five divergent snap bean accessions from the vegetables germplasm bank at UENF and their ten diallel hybrids were evaluated to inheritance on five morphoagronomic traits using Hayman's methodology (1954). The results showed that additive effects were predominant for pod weight per plant, number of seeds per pod, height of the insertion of the first pod and number of days to flowering while non-additive effects were more important for number of pods per plant. The best strategy to be adopted was the use of these acessions in an intrapopulation breeding program aiming the obtaintion of superior segregants. For pod numbers the indicated strategy would be an interpopulational breeding procedure, to exploite the heterosis related to the non-additive effects. The analysis also revealed that dominant alleles increased the number of pods per plant, pod weight per plant and number of seeds per pod. Allelic interaction was overdominance to the number of pods per plant, while the partial dominance controled the expression of other traits.
Larval predation on different instars in blowfly populations
Authors: Faria Lucas Del Bianco , Godoy Wesley Augusto Conde , Reis Sérgio Furtado dos
Published: April 2005

During its larval stage, Chrysomya albiceps (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a facultative predator on other blowflies. In this study, we evaluated the predation by third instar larvae of C. albiceps on first, second and third instar larvae of Chrysomya megacephala and Cochliomyia macellaria in no-choice experiments in order to compare the vulnerability of larval instars to predation. With first and second instar prey the highest predation rate by C. albiceps was on C. megacephala. For third instar prey, the highest predation rate was on C. macellaria. With second instar prey, there was complete predation on C. megacephala within 90 min, whereas in C. macellaria only 55% of the larvae were eaten by 90 min. For third instar prey most predation on C. macellaria (80%) occurred within 90 min, whereas in C. megacephala only 35% of the larvae were eaten by 90 min. Chrysomya albiceps changes the predatory behavior on its preys depending on which instar and species it will consume.
Fumonisins B1 and B2 in corn-based products commercialized in the state of Santa Catarina - Southern Brazil
Authors: Scaff Rejane Maria Cirra , Scussel Vildes Maria
Published: April 2005

Corn flour, "canjica" (corn grits), corn flakes and popcorn for human consumption, commercialized in Santa Catarina (n=82), were analyzed in order to detect the presence of fumonisins B1 (FB1) and B2 (FB2). From the samples, 92.68% showed detectable levels of Fumonisins (FBs). Corn flour showed the highest level of contamination (91.5%) with average levels of 3.811 and 5.737 mg/g for the home-processed and industrialized products, respectively. The next most contaminated product was popcorn with a average of 2.872 mg/g and an occurrence in 91.6% of the samples. All samples of corn flakes were contaminated with an average of 1.307 mg/g. The product with the lowest levels of FBs was "canjica" with a average contamination of 0.732 mg/g. These results indicated the need of monitoring corn-based products in this state.
Effects of an experimental challenge with Mycobacterium marinum on the blood parameters of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1757)
Authors: Ranzani-Paiva Maria José Tavares , Ishikawa Carlos Massatoshi , Eiras Augusta Cocuzza das , Silveira Vivian Risaffi da
Published: April 2005

A hundred adult of tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, were inoculated intraperitoneally with 10(8) c.f.u. of Mycobacterium marinum. Other 100 speciemns were maintained without inoculation. Blood samples of six inoculated animals were collected at 01, 03, 07, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, 56 and 84 days after inoculation. Initially, six specimens were taken from the non inoculated group ("time zero"). The haematological parameters determined were: haematocrit (Hct), haemoglobin concentration (Hgb), total erythrocytes count (RBC), hematological indexes (MCV, MCH and MCHC), thrombocyte count (Tr), leukocyte count (WBC) and leukocyte differential count. There were no changes in Hct, Hgb, MCH and MCHC. However, the mean values for RBC and MCV decreased. The mean values for RBC and Hct of specimens from the "time zero" group were higher and the MCV and MCH lower than in inoculated animals. Occurred neutrophilia, and, at 72 h there was lymphocytosis and neutropenia. By the 49th day after bacterial inoculation, there was monocytosis.
Treatment of simulated wastewater containing n-phenyl-n-isopropyl-p-phenylenediamine using electrolysis system with Ti/TiRuO2 electrodes
Authors: Inazaki Thelma Helena , Pião Antonio Carlos Simões , Bidoia Ederio Dino
Published: April 2005

This study investigated the effects of the electrolytic treatment in the simulated wastewater with aromatic amine n-phenyl-n-isopropyl-p-phenylenediamine (Flexzone 3P®) using Ti/TiRuO2 electrodes under 0.025 A/cm² (DC) for different electrolysis durations (5; 15; 30; 45 and 60 min). Conductivity, pH, UV-visible spectra, gas chromatograms, toxicity and biodegradation tests were carried out. During the electrolytic treatment the pH decreased and conductivity increased slightly. After 60 min of electrolysis, the concentration of Flexzone 3P decreased by 65.1%. UV-vis spectra and chromatograms of simulated wastewater showed changes in the molecular structure of the aromatic amine. After 5 and 15 min of electrolysis, the simulated wastewater containing the Flexzone 3P showed detoxification by Saccharomyces cerevisiae toxicity test. The electrolysis of 5 min improved the biodegradation of the simulated wastewater containing Flexzone 3P.
Planktonic ciliates from an oligotrophic South Andean lake, Morenito Lake (Patagonia, Argentina)
Authors: MODENUTTI B. E. , PÉREZ G. L.
Published: April 2005

In this contribution we have studied the planktonic ciliates from Morenito Lake, an oligotrophic lake situated in the South Andes of Argentina. Six species that are new records for South America or Argentina are described and illustrated. Besides, population dynamics of the ciliate species were studied during a spring--summer period. Strobilidium lacustris and Balanion planctonicum were the most abundant species, showing a maximum in mid summer. Paradileptus elephantinus was present all over the period while Urotricha furcata was observed in late summer samples. Strobilidium lacustris and S. humile were found to be occasional species during the studied period. The recorded ciliate assemblage with oligotrichs and prostomates as dominant indicate the oligotrophic condition of the lake.
A new species of terrestrial planarian (Platyhelminthes: Tricladida: Terricola) from South Brazil
Authors: CARBAYO F. , LEAL-ZANCHET A. M.
Published: April 2005

Geoplana josefi sp. nov. of South Brazil is described herein. The species shows etary polymorphism. Neither youngs nor adults show the characteristic colour pattern of the mature worms. The species has a multilayered lining in the female atrium. The allopatric G. trigueira, which does not have such a lining, is similar externally and internally with adults of G. josefi, its seminal vesicle, however, being unpaired.
Oviposition and predation by Speciomerus revoili (Coleoptera, Bruchidae) on seeds of Acrocomia aculeata (Arecaceae) in Brasília, DF, Brazil
Authors: RAMOS F. A. , MARTINS I. , FARIAS J. M. , SILVA I. C. S. , COSTA D. C. , MIRANDA A. P.
Published: April 2005

Oviposition and predation levels by Speciomerus revoili bruchid beetles were quantified on fruits and seeds of the macaúba palm, Acrocomia aculeata, collected from below mother-trees within the Sarah Kubitschek Park of Brasília, DF, Brazil. A maximum of 12 eggs per fruit were found, with high variations observed between samples. No clear pattern was found for the distribution of the number of eggs per fruit, perhaps due to the artificial conditions of the study area, the absence of dispersers and/or the plasticity in the oviposition behavior of the insect. The number of eggs per fruit was not related to fruit size, but was associated with their availability under the tree-mother. This suggests that the density of eggs per fruit is a balance between the availability of this resource and the number of females in the beetle population. The observed mortality rate, from the egg phase to the final larval stages, was over 75%. About 40% of the seeds of Acrocomia aculeata were predated by Speciomerus revoili.
Ultrastructure and morphometry of ovarian follicles in the armadillo Chaetophractus villosus (Mammalia, Dasypodidae)
Authors: CODÓN S. M. , ESTECONDO S. G. , GALÍNDEZ E. J. , CASANAVE E. B.
Published: April 2005

Ultrastructural and morphometric changes in oocyte and surrounding granulosa cells during armadillo follicular growth are described. Primordial, intermediary, early and late primary, secondary, tertiary and preovulatory Graafian follicles were found. From primordial to Graafian follicle, granulosa cells increase in height, become multilayered while fluid-filled spaces arise among them in the tertiary follicle stage. As the follicle expands the oocyte is located eccentrically and grows in size. From primordial to secondary stage organelles develop in number and complexity and many vesicles start arising in the cytoplasm at the secondary stage. From tertiary follicle stage the number of mitochondria decreases. In follicular cells, secreting-related organelles expand, but mitochondrial number decreases according to the follicle expansion. Intercellular junctions between both cell types increase. The morphometrical study shows a biphasic pattern of oocyte and follicle growth. The morphological baseline here provided will be essential for further comprehension of the reproductive biology in armadillos.
Exocrine glands of Schwarziana quadripunctata (Hymenoptera, Apinae, Meliponini)
Authors: CRUZ-LANDIM C. , REGINATO R. D.
Published: April 2005

This article describes the location, anatomy, histology and ontogeny of adult Schwarziana quadripunctata exocrine glands. These glands appear either as individualized organs (salivary gland system and Dufour gland) or as epidermis differentiation (tegumentary glands). Variations in the occurrence and degree of development among colony components with regard to their degree of maturity are also described.
The effect of hypoxia and recuperation on carbohydrate metabolism in pacu (Piaractus mesotamicus)
Authors: PANEPUCCI R. A. , PANEPUCCI L. , FERNANDES M. N. , SANCHES J. R. , RANTIN F. T.
Published: April 2005

A study of the hematological parameters, glycogen, glucose, and lactate, and the activity of malate and lactate dehydrogenases was carried out in blood and tissues of fishes submitted to two, four, and six hours of hypoxia and recuperation. Only after 4 h of hypoxia was there a drop in liver glucose. After 6 h, a drop in lactate and a rise in glucose in practically all tissues signaled a recuperation of the metabolism, probably due to ASR (aerial surface respiration). Lactate formed during hypoxia was canalized to heart and brain for oxidation and used for neoglucogenesis. There were no changes in hematological parameters nore in the activity of malate and lactate dehydrogenases during normoxia and hypoxia, which suggest that these adaptive mechanisms may not be involved during hypoxia. Glycogen concentrations did not show variation during hypoxia either.
Nutritional status response of Daphania laevis and Moina micura from a tropical reservoir to different algal diets: Scenedesmus quadricauda and Ankistrodesmus gracilis
Authors: MACEDO C. F. , PINTO-CORLHO R. M.
Published: April 2005

The accumulation of lipid reserves was investigated in two common cladoceran species typical of neotropical freshwaters. Experiments were performed in order to measure differential accumulation of lipid reserves in response to two algal diets, S. quadricauda and A. gracilis. The larger D. laevis fed with the Ankistrodesmus diet accumulated a higher amount of total lipids. The average lipid content for both diets was 11.1% and 22.1% dry weight for Scenedesmus and Ankistrodemsus, respectively. This difference was found to be highly significant. The superior nutritional quality of A. gracilis was confirmed by the experiments using the smaller Moina micrura. This cladoceran accumulated 11.4% and 19.9% of the average dry weight of lipids from Scenedesmus and Ankistrodesmus, respectively. The study also found that most lipid reserves are concentrated as triacylglycerols in both cladocerans. The relative contribution of this class of lipids also varied according to the diet. For Daphnia, for instance, the average triacylglycerol levels varied from 6.2 to 11.0 with the Scenedesmus and Ankistrodesmus diets, respectively.
Soil temperature and diapause maintenance in eggs of the spittlebug, Deois flavopicta (Hemiptera: Cercopidae)
Authors: SUJII E. R. , GARCIA M. A. , FONTES E. M. G. , SILVA S. M. B. da , MEYER J. F. C. A.
Published: April 2005

Diapausing eggs of the neotropical pasture pest, Deois flavopicta (Stal) (Hemiptera: Cercopidae), were exposed to low overnight temperatures that simulated field conditions during the dry season (23/12, 23/15 and 23/18ºC day/night), for different periods (0-60 days). After treatment, eggs were kept at 28ºC and contact water (100% humidity) until hatching. A group of diapausing eggs were kept all the time under this last condition as a control treatment. Time for hatching (in degree-days) was reduced with decrease in low overnight temperature and increase of exposure time to these cold shocks, although there was no interaction between the factors. Regression of exposure time to cold shock influencing the expected mean hatching time produced independent equations for temperatures below 18ºC and 15ºC. We constructed a model that simulates the expected proportion of the population hatching after the beginning of rainy season based on regression equations to mean hatching time and associated standard deviation. The simulation generated for the model correlated significantly with nymphal population observed in the field. These results showed that overnight soil temperatures below 18ºC, as occurs in Central and South-eastern Brazil between May and August, shorten the period of diapause, increase quiescent eggs in the soil, and may synchronize the population hatching.
Notes on the coati, Nasua nasua (Carnivora: Procyonidae) in an Atlantic Forest area
Authors: BEISIEGEL B. M.
Published: April 2005

Although Nasua nasua is broadly distributed geographically and relatively common, it is still little studied. This paper reports observations of coatis in an Atlantic Forest area, the Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho (PECB) in São Paulo State, Brazil. The social structure of coatis at PECB seems to be the same related in the literature. The mating season appears to be August-September and the pups are born in October-November. Coatis are mainly arboreal at the PECB, contrasting with habits reported in the data from other areas. This preference for the arboreal stratum no doubt is related to their foraging in epiphytic bromeliads, which occurred in 90.6% of the instances in which they were observed feeding. Bromeliads are a rich food source much more common in the Atlantic Forest than in other areas where coatis have been observed. This result suggests that this species is able to adjust its foraging and strata preferences to different environments without changing its basic social structure.
Effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and soil phosphorus level on expression of protein and activity of peroxidase on passion fruit roots
Authors: SANTOS B. A. , MAIA L. C. , CAVALCANTE U. M. T. , CORREIA M. T. S. , COELHO L. C. B. B.
Published: April 2005

The effects of mycorrhizal inoculation and increasing soil P levels on the expression of total proteins and peroxidase activity on passion fruit roots were evaluated. The experimental design was entirely at random, with four treatments of inoculation (a - control; b - Gigaspora albida; c - Scutellospora heterogama; d - mixture of G. albida, G. margarita, S. heterogama, and Glomus clarum) × three levels of soil P (4, 11, and 30 mg/dm³ of soil), each with three replicates. Plants were harvested 70 days after inoculation, when root colonization, shoot P level, protein content, and enzymatic activity of peroxidase (PAGE - 7%) on root extract were evaluated. Regarding protein, there was no significant difference among the treatments, except between those roots receiving mixed inoculum and 11 mg P/dm³ of soil. Effect of P on protein concentration, when compared with the inoculation effect was observed. For peroxidase, there was an eletrophoretic band common to all treatments (rf: 0.43) and another that was absent only in noncolonized plants, grown in soil with lower P (rf: 0.46). Mycorrhizal specific bands were not present but a small decrease of intensity of bands in noncolonized plants was observed. Conversely, the control roots presented a single band (rf: 0.33) not observed in the other extracts, that may demonstrate an inhibitory effect of AMF on some host activities. The data showed the influence of P level in soil on the protein expression of roots, suggesting the influence of this nutrient on root genetic expression as well as on the mechanisms of symbiotic control/recognition.
Feeding preferences of the endemic gastropod Astraea latispina in relation to chemical defenses of Brazilian tropical seaweeds
Authors: PEREIRA R. C. , PINHEIRO M. D. , TEIXEIRA V. L. , GAMA B. A. P. da
Published: April 2005

Seaweed preference by the Brazilian endemic gastropod Astraea latispina was examined in the laboratory to evaluate the role of secondary metabolites in determining food choice. Of three species of seaweeds examined, Plocamium brasiliense was highly preferred; less so were Sargassum furcatum and Dictyota cervicornis were preferred less. Extracts and/or pure major metabolites of the two potentially chemically-defended seaweeds (P. brasiliense and D. cervicornis) were tested as feeding deterrents against A. latispina. Algal extract assays demonstrated that three concentrations of crude organic extract of the red alga P. brasiliense (50%, 100%: natural concentration, and 200% of dry weight: dw) did not affect feeding of this gastropod. In contrast, the three concentrations of crude organic extract of the brown alga D. cervicornis (50%, 100% and 200% dw) inhibited feeding by A. latispina. The chemical deterrent property of D. cervicornis extract against the gastropod A. latispina occurred due to a mixture of the secodolastane diterpenes isolinearol/linearol (4:1 -- 0.08% dry weight). This is the first report showing that Dictyota cervicornis produces a chemical defense against herbivores using secodolastane diterpenoid. In addition, these results widen the action spectrum of secondary metabolites found in seaweed belonging to this brown algal genus.
The influence of Eucalyptus plantations on the macrofauna associated with Salvinia auriculata in Southeast Brazil
Authors: CALLISTO M. , BARBOSA F. A. R. , MORENO P.
Published: April 2005

The influence of Eucalyptus plantations on the structure and composition of macroinvertebrate communities associated with the aquatic fern Salvinia auriculata Aublet were investigated in a high altitude lake bordered by either secondary Atlantic forest or Eucalyptus plantations. Comparisons of the diversity of Chironomidae (Diptera, Insecta) larvae in the littoral zone between these two vegetation types showed higher diversity of larvae in waters bordered by Eucalyptus. The results demonstrated that the predominance of carnivorous taxa among the macroinvertebrate fauna appears to be the major controlling factor for limiting diversity in lake areas bordered by Eucalyptus.
Diversity and biomass of Chironomidae (Diptera) larvae in an impacted coastal lagoon in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: CALLISTO M. , MORENO P. , GONÇALVES J. F. JR. , LEAL J. J. F. , ESTEVES F. A.
Published: April 2005

Diversity and biomass of Chironomidae larvae were studied between January-November 1993 and March-November 1994 in an impacted lagoon in Rio de Janeiro, Southeastern Brazil, in an attempt to establish the ecological consequences of anthropogenic eutrophication processes. Nine hundred and seventy-five organisms belonging to the Tanypodinae, Orthocladiinae, and Chironominae were collected. Polypedilum (62%) and Chironomus (58%) were the most common genera found in the limnetic and littoral zones.
Variation of biometric parameters and C, N, and P concentrations of Oryza glumaepatula at different depths of an amazonian lake impacted by bauxite tailings (Lake Batata, Pará, Brazil)
Authors: ENRICH-PRAST A. , ESTEVES F. A. , BREVES A. R.
Published: April 2005

Lake Batata is a typical Amazonian clear water lake which has undergone anthropogenic impacts. Thirty percent of its total area has been covered with bauxite tailings. Thus, it is possible to distinguish two areas in this ecosystem: the impacted and the natural. The goal of this research was to study C, N, and P content variation and the values of biomass, length, density, and culm diameter of Oryza glumaepatula at different depths in the natural and impacted areas of Lake Batata. The results obtained in this research suggest that the availability of P and N, in both water and sediment, is lower at the shallow site when compared to the deeper sites. On the other hand, C concentrations decreased as P and N concentrations increased. This may be explained by the structural function of C in aquatic macrophytes. At shallower sites, due to the reduced water column, individuals invest in supporting structures that display high C concentrations. The higher density and biomass of O. glumaepatula at the intermediate site indicate that this area presents the best conditions for germination and establishment of individuals of this species. The chemical composition and biometric parameters of O. glumaepatula have shown that this population has higher spatial variation in the natural area. In the impacted area, the absence of significant variations in N and P concentrations in O. glumaepatula among the three sampled sites promotes higher homogeneity in the stands. The high C:P and N:P ratios indicate that, in the impacted area, P is more limiting to the development of O. glumaepatula than it is in the natural area. The reduced values of biomass and density of O. glumaepatula in the impacted area suggest that the bauxite tailings limit the development of this population.
Fish stock assessment of piraputanga Brycon microlepis in the Cuiabá River basin, Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: MATEUS L. A. de F. , ESTUPIÑÁN G. M.B.
Published: April 2005

Fork length measurements of individuals of Brycon microlepis landed and commercialized at the Porto Market in Cuiabá, MT, from May-October 1996 to May-October 1997 were used to estimate growth and mortality parameters for this species. The average estimated populational parameters were: L¥ = 705 mm, k = 0.275 year--1, C = 0.775, WP = 0.465, Lc = 164 mm, M = 0.585 year--1, Z = 0.822 year--1, with F = 0.237 year--1. Yield per recruit analysis suggests that the stock is not yet overexploited.
Morphology and anatomy of leaf mine in Richterago riparia Roque (Asteraceae) in the campos rupestres of Serra do Cipó, Brazil
Authors: MELO DE PINNA G. F. A. , KRAUS J. E. , MENEZES N. L. de
Published: April 2005

The leaf mine in Richterago riparia is caused by a lepidopteran larva (lepidopteronome). The leaves of R. riparia show campdodrome venation; the epidermis is unistratified, with stomata and glandular trichomes in adaxial and abaxial surfaces. The mesophyll is bilateral and the vascular system is collateral. During the formation of the mine, the larva consumes the chlorenchyma of the mesophyll and the smaller vascular bundles (veins of third and fourth orders). Structural alterations in the tissues of the host plant were not observed, except for the formation of a wound meristem and the presence of cells with phenolic substances next to the mine. Three cephalic exuviae of the miner were found in the mesophyll. This lepidopteronome is parenchymatic and the epidermis remains intact, but forms a protective layer for the mining insect.
Birds of a central São Paulo woodlot: 1. Censuses 1982-2000
Authors: WILLIS E. O. , ONIKI Y.
Published: April 2005

Some 263 birds were recorded near and in a 230-ha patch of semideciduous forest in cane fields of central São Paulo, Brazil. Subtracting 67 open-area species, 22 of marshes or creeks, 10 vagrants and 12 recorded later, 152 forest and border species were recorded in 1982-86, much like what was observed in a similar woodlot near Campinas. Both woodlots lost species gradually over the years. Some birds avoided hard cane-field edges, preferring soft bushy edges. Of open-area species, 22 seemed to have disappeared by 1997 due to earlier high El Niño rains or rare permanently open habitats in the sugar cane; 17 new species were mostly nocturnal ones not noted earlier, or occasional visitors. Forest and borders lost 31 species, gaining five of dry regions and one winter visitor. Several migrants from the south appeared only in wet years before recent greenhouse effects, some resident birds were hunted, and canopy hummingbirds were perhaps still present. Dry-forest travel-prone or "metapopulational" species moved their centers of distribution, partly concealing loss of moist-forest diversity.
Spatial and temporal distribution of larvae and juveniles of Hoplias aff. malabaricus (Characiformes, Erythrinidae) in the Upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil
Authors: BIALETZKI A. , NAKATANI K. , SANCHES P. V. , BAUMGARTNER G.
Published: April 2005

Spatial and temporal distribution of larvae and juveniles of trahira, Hoplias aff. malabaricus (Erythrinidae), and their relationship with environmental parameters in the Upper Paraná River floodplain were analyzed. Sampling of larvae and juveniles of H. aff. malabaricus has been conducted during the period from November 1991 through February 1995, with 42 sampling stations distributed in four sub-areas: Ivinhema I, Ivinhema II, Baía, and Paraná. During the same period, data were obtained for water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, electrical conductivity, river level, precipitation index, and photoperiod. The largest catches of larvae were in the Ivinhema I sub-area (47.06%), and of juveniles in the Paraná sub-area (54.55%). Larvae and juveniles were caught from October to February. Larvae were mainly collected at night and in all types of environments sampled (lotic, semi-lotic, and lentic). Principal Component Analysis of the environmental parameters and larval density showed that the largest catches were obtained in dry season months, with low values for temperature, electrical conductivity, river level, and photoperiod, and with high concentrations of dissolved oxygen and pH. This reproductive strategy may minimizes predation and maximizes food utilization, as it enables the fish to reach advanced developmental stages, while most other species are spawning.
The occurrence of amphibians in bromeliads from a Southeastern Brazilian restinga habitat, with special reference to Aparasphenodon brunoi (Anura, Hylidae)
Authors: TEIXEIRA R. L. , SCHINEIDER J. A. P. , ALMEIDA G. I.
Published: April 2005

Five species of anuran amphibians, all belonging to the family Hylidae, were collected at Praia das Neves, municipality of Presidente Kennedy, southeastern Brazil,. The species were represented by four genera: Scinax, Hyla, Aparasphenodon, and Trachycephalus. Four species (A. brunoi, Hyla albomarginata, Scinax altera, and S. cuspidatus) were found during the dry season (August 1999), and two (A. brunoi and Trachycephalus nigromaculatus) in the rainy season (February 2000). Aparasphenodon brunoi was the most abundant species in Praia das Neves. Some reproductive aspects and feeding habits of this hylid were investigated. Aparasphenodon brunoi was found mainly inside the bromeliad Aechmea lingulata, the largest plant analyzed. Fifteen specimens were collected during the dry season (August 1999) (11 males and 4 females). During the rainy season (February 2000), we collected 14 specimens (3 males, 10 females, and 1 juvenile). Sex-ratio was 1:1. Frogs ranged in snout-vent length from 31.2 to 69.3 mm. Females were larger than males. One female had 1,451 fully developed oocytes in her ovaries. The major groups of prey found in the stomachs were: Insecta, Myriapoda, and Arachnida. Blattodea, Orthoptera, Lepidoptera, and Hymenoptera (only ants) were the main food types in frequency, number, and weight. Aparasphenodon brunoi is a threatened species in many habitats of southeastern Brazil. Only natural vegetation protection may guarantee its survival during the immediate future.
The invertebrate colonization during decomposition of Eichhornia azurea kunth in a lateral lake in the mouth zone of Paranapanema River into Jurumirim Reservoir (São Paulo, Brazil)
Authors: STRIPARI N. de L. , HENRY R.
Published: April 2005

The invertebrate colonization during decomposition of Eichhornia azurea was observed in a lateral lake in the mouth zone of Paranapanema River into Jurumirim Reservoir in two periods of the year. The litter bags method was used for measuring the decomposition rate as well as to evaluate the invertebrates colonization. Forty-two litter bags, measuring 15 × 20 cm in size and 2 mm mesh net, were incubated "in situ". Six litter bags (three for colonization and three for decomposition measurements) were removed after the 1st, 3rd, 7th, 14th, 28th, 56th and 72nd days of incubation. After each day, the material was carefully cleaned for detritus removal and invertebrate sampling. The biological material was fixed with 4% formaline and then sorted and identified. The remaining plant material was dried in an oven (at 60ºC) and weighed. A fast material loss occurred during the first 24 hours and the decomposition rate was higher during the rainy season than in the dry season. A peak on invertebrate density (110 ind.g.DW--1) on the remaining detritus of Eichhornia azurea was recorded in the 56th day of dry season, when the polyphenol concentration of plant detritus was 0.57 UDO.g.DW--1. In the rainy season, higher density was found in the 28th day of incubation, when the polyphenol concentration was 4.36 UDO.g.DW--1. Apparently, the reduction in the polyphenol concentration was followed by an increase in invertebrate densities. The majority of the species observed in the detritus belongs to the collector group that was dominant after the 7th and 14th days in the rainy and dry seasons, respectively.
Geographical variation in larval host-plant use by Heliconius erato (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) and consequences for adult life history
Authors: RODRIGUES D. , MOREIRA G. R. P.
Published: April 2005

Adult body size, one of the most important life-history components, varies strongly within and between Heliconius erato phyllis (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) populations. This study determines if this variation is caused by geographical changes in host-plant used by the larval stage, whose reproductive parameters are influenced by female body size, with estimates of the corresponding heritability. The variation in adult body size was determined together with a survey of passion vine species (Passifloraceae) used by the larvae in seven localities in Rio Grande do Sul State: three located in the urban area of Porto Alegre and Triunfo Counties, two within Eucalyptus plantations (Barba Negra Forest, Barra do Ribeiro County, and Águas Belas Experimental Station -- Viamão County), one in a Myrtaceae Forest (Itapuã State Park -- Itapuã County) and one in the Atlantic Rain Forest (Maquiné Experimental Station -- Maquiné County). Effects of female body size on fecundity, egg size and egg viability were determined in an outdoor insectary. Size heritability was estimated by rearing in the laboratory offspring of individuals maintained in an insectary. The data showed that adults from populations where larvae feed only upon Passiflora suberosa are smaller than those that feed on Passiflora misera. The larvae prefer P. misera even when the dominant passion vine in a given place is P. suberosa. Fecundity increases linearly with the increase in size of females, but there is no size effect on egg size or viability. Size heritability is null for the adult size range occurring in the field. Thus, the geographical variation of H. erato phyllis adult size is primarily determined by the type, corresponding availability and quality of host-plants used by the larval stage. Within the natural size range of H. erato phyllis, the variation related to this caracter is not genetically based, thus being part of H. erato phyllis phenotypic plasticity.