bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulação das dietas, desempenho e qualidade da carcaça, produção e composição de dejetos de suínos
Authors: Nones Kátia , Lima Gustavo J.M.M. de , Bellaver Cláudio , Rutz Fernando
Published: April 2005

A eficiência de utilização dos alimentos pelos animais pode ser influenciada pela maneira como as informações de composição e digestibilidade dos nutrientes são utilizadas. A formulação de rações para suínos baseada no conceito de proteína bruta pode apresentar níveis de aminoácidos desbalanceados ocasionando a desaminação dos aminoácidos em excesso. O nitrogênio disponível pode ser utilizado na síntese de outros compostos ou simplesmente excretado, o que significa perda de eficiência no processo e aumento da capacidade poluente dos dejetos produzidos. Assim, foram realizados dois experimentos para estudar os efeitos do uso de formulação de dietas para suínos em crescimento e terminação. As dietas foram: 1) formulação baseada nas exigências de proteína bruta e aminoácidos totais do NRC; 2) formulação com níveis de lisina (Lys) total 15% superiores ao da dieta 1; 3) formulação com teor de proteína semelhante ao da dieta 2 mas atendendo a proteína ideal; 4) formulação atendendo a proteína ideal proposta por Baker (1997), com 15% mais Lys digestível mantendo-se o mesmo teor de proteína. Os animais que receberam as dietas 2 e 4 apresentaram maior ganho de peso diário. Para espessura de toucinho, profundidade de lombo e porcentagem de carne não houve efeito de tratamento. As dietas com níveis de proteína mais elevados proporcionaram maior excreção de fezes. Os animais que receberam as dietas formuladas com 15% mais Lys (dietas 2 e 4) apresentaram menor excreção de nitrogênio nas fezes, sem afetar a excreção deste na urina.
Development and soybean leaf consumption by Urbanus proteus proteus (L.)
Authors: Nava Dori Edson , Parra José Roberto Postali
Published: April 2005

Urbanus proteus proteus (L.) is a defoliating pest of legumes, causing damage mainly on soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) and bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and, being a minor pest, little is known about its bioecology. The objective of this paper was to study the larval and pupal development of the insect and the foliar consumption during its instars. Durations of 16.7; 1.1; 11.4 and 29.2 days were determined for the caterpillar, prepupal, and pupal stages, and the period from caterpillar-adult, respectively, with a total viability of 84.8%. The larval stage had five instars and the consumption of leaf area was 214.3 cm², with the consumption of the two last instars representing 96.9% of the total. Based on this value, the control level of the pest was estimated as 17 large caterpillars per sampling.
Phenotypic recurrent selection to improve protein quality in non-opaque maize populations
Authors: Garcia Antonio Augusto Franco , Souza Jr. Cláudio Lopes de
Published: April 2005

Maize (Zea mays L.) protein is considered to be of low quality due to low levels of the essential lysine and tryptophan amino acids. An alternative to solve this problem is to use the opaque-2 gene, which improves the level of these amino acids, but has negative pleiotropic effects on agronomic characters. A phenotypic recurrent selection scheme was carried out in two non-opaque maize populations to verify the possibility of improving their protein quality without using this gene. Four cycles were completed and a 20% selection intensity for tryptophan content in the kernels was used in two populations, IG-1 and IG-2. The original and the four-cycle populations were evaluated in three locations for agronomic traits. For protein and tryptophan content, a separated trial was carried out because plants of the plots were hand-pollinated. No increase in tryptophan content was observed in the IG-2 population, whereas IG-1 presented a small increase (0.70% per cycle). The ratio tryptophan/protein increased 1.26% per cycle in IG-1 and the protein content did not increase in both populations. The ESALQ-VD2-opaque check was superior in relation to both populations for protein quality, as expected, even after completion of four selection cycles. The kernel yield (2.5% per cycle) prolificacy, plant and ear heights, decreased with selection cycles, as a correlated response to selection. Phenotypic recurrent selection in non-opaque maize was not able to increase, at reasonable rates, the protein quality of maize kernels.
Vegetative growth of grain sorghum in response to phosphorus nutrition
Authors: Camacho Rafael , Malavolta Eurípedes , Guerrero-Alves José , Camacho Tomás
Published: April 2005

Morphological variables such as phytomass, plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, have been used to express the influence of mineral nutrients on plant growth patterns, since the vegetative development responds, in general, favorably to fertilizer applications. This work evaluates the effect of P on both, some morphological characteristics and total [P] in the shoot of eight grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) genotypes. Genetic materials were grown in nutrient solution under three concentrations of P (0; 0.5 and 1.0 mmol L-1). Plants were harvested 41 days after sowing, and leaf area per plant (LA), number of leaves (NL) per plant, root volume (RV), plant height (PH), root dry matter (RDM), shoot dry matter (SDM), total dry matter (TDM), RDM/SDM ratio, and total P concentration in shoot were determined. RDM/SDM was high for treatment P(0) and diminished about twice when P was added. Lack of applied P decreased the final NL and LA. Shoot [P] was positively correlated with solution [P], but the increase in P concentration in the nutrient solution from 0.5 to 1.0 mmol L-1 had a negative effect on growth. Both under deficiency and sufficiency conditions of P, Himeca-101 showed the best behavior in terms of RDM, SDM, TDM, RV, LA and NL. LA and PH were identified as the best indicators to predict dry matter yield of sorghum plants under P supply conditions.
Nitrogen 15 abundance in protein fractions of beans fertilized with (15NH4)2SO4
Authors: Chaud Saula Goulart , Oliveira Admar Costa de , Trivelin Paulo César Ocheuze
Published: April 2005

Studies evaluating the protein nutritive value of beans labelled with 15N, ussing nitrogen balance and the quantitation of faecal and urinary endogenous nitrogen, determined by isotopic dilution, have been extensively used. The objective of this research was to verify if the isotopic labelling of raw, freeze dried beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L., cultivar Piratã 1) with 1.394 atoms%15N, resulted in the same abundance of the whole flour and of the protein fractions extracted from the beans with 0.5 mol L-1 NaCl. The isotopic abundance found in the whole bean flour, in the protein extract, in the globulin and albumin fractions were respectively: 1.394 ± 0.011; 1.403 ± 0.012; 1.399 ± 0.007 and 1.399 ± 0.028 atoms % of 15N, presenting no difference (P > 0.05). However, a difference was found (P < 0.05) between the above mentioned abundances and the isotopic abundance found in the nitrogen of the proteins in the extraction residue, which was 0.969 ± 0.084. Since the abundances did not differ, the protein nutritive indexes, such as digestibility and biological value, determined from the nitrogen balance and corrected for isotopic dilution, would not be affected by extracting the proteins from the beans with 0.5 mol L¹ NaCl. If working with the nitrogen balance of the residual proteins after extraction and even with the whole flours, these indexes could present incorrect values, since the isotopic labelling of the residual proteins was less than that of the protein fractions.
Densidade, porosidade e resistência à penetração em Latossolo cultivado sob diferentes sistemas de preparo do solo
Authors: Tormena Cássio Antonio , Barbosa Mauro Cezar , Costa Antônio Carlos Saraiva da , Gonçalves Antonio Carlos Andrade
Published: April 2005

Os sistemas de preparo e manejo do solo determinam as condições físicas para o crescimento das plantas e produtividade das culturas. O objetivo deste estudo é o de avaliar algumas propriedades físicas de um Latossolo Vermelho distrófico, cultivado com mandioca, após dois anos de implantação em diferentes sistemas de preparo do solo. Os tratamentos utilizados foram: Plantio Direto (mobilização do solo somente ao longo das linhas de plantio); Preparo Mínimo (escarificação a 0,30 m, seguido de gradagem niveladora) e Preparo Convencional (aração, com arado de aiveca a uma profundidade de 0,25 m, seguido de gradagem niveladora). Avaliaram-se, nas camadas de 0-0,10 m e 0,10-0,20 m, as seguintes propriedades físicas do solo: densidade, volume de macroporos, microporos, a porosidade e a resistência do solo à penetração das raízes, a cada 0,05 m, até à profundidade de 0,40 m, em três diferentes épocas. Constataram-se maiores valores de densidade do solo e menores valores de macroporosidade na camada de 0-0,10 m no plantio direto e preparo mínimo do solo. Resultados similares foram obtidos na avaliação da resistência do solo à penetração, independente da época de avaliação e da umidade do solo. Os sistemas de preparo mínimo e preparo convencional do solo proporcionam condições físicas menos restritivas ao crescimento das plantas, quando comparado com o plantio direto. Avaliações de médio-longo prazo são necessárias face às mudanças dinâmicas na qualidade física do solo, impostas pelos sistemas de preparo e manejo do solo e da cultura.
A rapid method for measuring soil water content in the field with a areometer
Authors: Calbo Adonai Gimenez
Published: April 2005

The availability of a rapid method to evaluate the soil water content (U) can be an important tool to determine the moment to irrigate. The soil areometer consists of an elongated hydrostatic balance with a weighing pan, a graduated neck, a float and a pynometric flask. In this work an areometer was adapted to rapidly measure soil water content without the need of drying the soil. The expression U = (M A - M AD)/(M M -M A) was used to calculate the soil water content. In this equation M M is the mass to level the areometer with the pycnometric flask filled with water, M A the mass to level the areometer with a mass M M of soil in the pycnometer, the volume being completed with water, and similarly M AD the mass added to the pan to level the areometer with a mass M M of dried soil in the pycnometric flask. The convenience of this method is that the values M M and M AD are known. Consequently, the decision on irrigation can be made after a measurement that takes, about, ten minutes. The procedure involves only stirring the soil with water for at least 2 minutes to remove the adhered air. The soil water content data obtained with the areometric method were similar to those obtained weighing the soil before and after drying to constant weight, in an oven at 105º C.
Air-assisted boom sprayer and spray deposition on bean plants
Authors: Bauer Fernando Cesar , Raetano Carlos Gilberto
Published: April 2005

The development of safe pesticide application techniques with low volume rates, frequency and spray drift, along with the need to obtain better control level of crop pest control levels, justify the air-assistance in boom sprayers. The aim of this research was to evaluate the spray deposition on bean plants with different nozzles and volume rates by air-assisted and non-assisted sprayers. A completely randomized experiment was carried out using copper oxide as a tracer (50% metalic copper) for deposit evaluation. The artificial targets were fixed on the upper and under-side of the leaflets, at the top and lower third of the same plants under the spray boom. After application, targets were washed individually with an extracting solution of nitric acid (1.0 mol L-1). The tracer deposition on the artificial targets was quantified by atomic absorption spectrofotometry. The effects of air-assisted spray were not significant in relation to spray deposition 48 days after emergence of the bean plants.
Competitivity of the common-bean plant relative to the weed alexandergrass [Brachiaria plantaginea (link) hitch.]
Authors: Passini Telma , Christoffoleti Pedro Jacob , Yada Inês Fumiko Ubukata
Published: April 2005

Methodologies of competitive interaction quantification between weeds and crops are not widely elucidated and compared in the literature. The competitive ability of common-bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) relative to alexandergrass (Brachiaria plantaginea) was assessed and two approaches of replacement series experiment analysis were compared. The response of the species to the presence of each other at different densities and proportion was evaluated. Replacement series at total densities of 625, 816 and 1,111 plants m-2 were performed at the proportions of common-bean:alexandergrass of 100:0 (pure stand of common-bean), 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100% (pure stand of alexandergrass), at four replicates in a randomized block design. Data analyses were performed by the qualitative compared to the quantitative approach. The quantitative approach provided larger number of information than did the qualitative approach, and indicated that there was intraspecific competition among common-bean plants, and a minimum of interspecific competition from alexandergrass. There was no intraspecific competition among alexandergrass plants, being the crop effect on the weed larger than the effect among alexandergrass plants. The ecological niche differentiation was partial, since the crop intraspecific competition was larger than the interspecific, and the last one was negligible, at the same time that the weed interspecific competition was larger than the intraspecific. Common-bean, as a competitor species, is superior to alexandergrass.
Genetic variability and pedigree analysis of Brazilian common bean elite genotypes
Authors: Alzate-Marin Ana Lilia , Costa Márcia Regina , Sartorato Aloísio , Del Peloso María José , Barros Everaldo Gonçalves de , Moreira Maurilio Alves
Published: April 2005

Genetic diversity is essential for any breeding program. However, breeders tend to concentrate on specific genotypes, which combine traits of interest and may be used as progenitors in several breeding programs. Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) breeding programs are not different in this sense. In this study, the genetic diversity of 21 common bean elite lines from the Bean Regional Trials conducted by the Embrapa Rice and Bean Research Center was evaluated using the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and pedigree analyses. Based on genetic dissimilarity, three groups were defined: group I - lines 1, 9 and 10, with low genetic distances among them (0.00 to 0.06), originated from 11 Mesoamerican parents; group II - 17 lines with genetic distances ranging from 0.03 to 0.33, originated from 50 parents (mostly Mesoamerican); and group III - line 21 (PR 93201472), which parents are the Andean cultivar 'Pompadour' and the cultivar 'Irai' (unknown origin). The genetic distances between line 21 and the lines of the other two groups varied from 0.68 to 0.93. Pedigree analyses demonstrated that cultivars 'Carioca', 'Cornell 49-242', 'Jamapa', 'Tlalnepantla 64', 'Tara' and 'Veranic 2', all of Mesoamerican origin, were the most widely used parents for developing lines present in group II.
Morphological characterization and reproductive aspects in genetic variability studies of forage peanut
Authors: Oliveira Marilda Augusta Peres , Valls José Francisco Montenegro
Published: April 2005

Morphological characterization and the study of reproductive behavior are important procedures to identify desirable traits of progenitors to be included in breeding programs. Morphological descriptors and the reproductive behavior of parental accessions of the legumes Arachis pintoi Krapov & W.C.Gregory and A. repens Handro were analyzed looking for the probable causes of seed production variability. Morphological and reproductive characterization were used for the estimation of the genetic variability of five A. pintoi and two A. repens accessions, with crosses being conducted in a greenhouse. Parents and hybrids have shown high pollen stainability, regular meiosis (2n=20), and presented distinctive reproductive behaviors: A. pintoi accessions GK 12787, V 13468 and V 6791-wf are prolific seed producers, while A. pintoi V 13167, V 13338 and A. repens Nc 1579 and Nc 1578, rarely produce seeds. Intraspecific crosses generated fertile F1 and F2 hybrids from five combinations. Interspecific crosses produced sterile F1 hybrids. Stigma morphology and distinct mode of reproduction present among accessions suggest possible barriers for seed production in some cross-combinations. Euclidian distance range between parents was 0.20 to 5.52. Accessions GK 12787 and Nc 1579 presented the maximum distance: 5.52, and V 13468 and Nc 1579 the minimum distance: 0.20. The Euclidian distance was considered an adequate methodology to study genetic diversity of parental accessions.
Intrapopulation fixation index dynamics in finite populations with variable outcrossing rates
Authors: Coelho Alexandre Siqueira Guedes , Vencovsky Roland
Published: April 2005

The intrapopulation fixation index ( f ) is inversely related to the outcrossing rate (t). Results obtained from data on molecular markers of natural populations have shown that these values are highly variable, even when measured in the same group of individuals. It is thus suggested that factors besides those described in Wright's genetic equilibrium must be operating. Using simulated data sets this study shows that the finite size condition of a population is sufficient to spread the estimated f values along a range at equilibrium, as opposed to keeping them at the theoretical equilibrium point. The variation in outcrossing rates can amplify this range considerably. Correlation between estimated f values obtained from different loci in this condition showed to be negatively related to the outcrossing rates, and positively related to the variance of these rates along generations. The finite size of populations associated to small fluctuations in t mean values over time may explain the usually reported high variation among estimated f values of different loci.
Relationship between acidity and chemical properties of brazilian soils
Authors: Abreu Jr. Cássio Hamilton , Muraoka Takashi , Lavorante André Fernando
Published: April 2005

In soils of tropical climate regions the high acidity and the presence of exchangeable aluminum (Al3+), associated to low fertility, are the main restrainting factors for agricultural production. A laboratory experiment was conducted using 26 soils of different Brazilian regions, to investigate soil acidity components, giving emphasis to Al and their relations with chemical properties. The pH correlated positively with P, Ca, Mg, K, BS, CEC and V% values, and negatively with Al saturation. The Al3+ was the predominant exchangeable cation in 32% of the soils with pH below 5.6. The KCl titratable H+ represents the hydroxi-Al(OH)x complex with low stability and the Wolf-Morgan extracted Al corresponds to the exchangeable + non-exchangeable Al species. The Al3+ and low stability hydroxi-Al decreased quickly with increasing pH up to 5.5. The non-exchangeable Al increased up to pH 4.5, then decreased to pH 5.5 and had a small increment from 7.0 to 7.5.
'Aroeira-branca' [Lithraea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. - Anacardiaceae] seed quality evaluation by the X-ray test
Authors: Machado Cibele Ferreira , Cícero Sílvio Moure
Published: April 2005

'Aroeira-branca', an arboreal species of great ecological and economic importance, is seed propagated and presents limitations with respect to the availability of methods for seed quality evaluation. The X-ray test has been considered of potential value because it is accurate, quick and nondestructive. In this context, the objective of this work was to verify the possibility of this test to detect damage and/or abnormalities in aroeira-branca embryos, in an attempt to correlate these anomalies to germination. Four seed lots were collected in different locations in the southern region of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, during 2001. The X-ray test consisted of submitting 100 seeds/lot to radiation (exposure of seeds to radiation of 13 kV/5 minutes) and classifying them according to embryo/embryo cavity proportions of 0, < 50, 50-75 and 100%, with the latter class divided into normal and abnormal according to embryo morphology. The germination test was then carried out to detect possible relationships between seed anatomy and the resulting seedling/seed ratio, as revealed by radiographs. Seeds presenting an embryo/embryo cavity proportion lower than 100%, as determined by the X-ray test, did not germinate, and those presenting abnormal embryos produced abnormal seedlings or did not germinate, providing evidence that the X-ray test is effective to assess seed quality.
Quality of colostral passive immunity and pattern of serum protein fluctuation in newborn calves
Authors: Pauletti Patricia , Machado Neto Raul , Packer Irineu Umberto , D'Arce Raul Dantas , Bessi Rosana
Published: April 2005

Immunity acquired by newborn animals is known as passive immunity, and for ruminants, antibody acquisition depends on the ingestion and absorption of adequate amounts of immunoglobulins from colostrum. This study relates different initial levels of acquired passive protection and serum total protein (TP) and immunoglobulin G (IgG). Serum immunoglobulin concentration and total protein were evaluated for female Holstein calves in the first sixty days of life. Animals were separated into three groups according to their initial level of passive immunity: group 1- animals with a low level of passive immunity (below 20 mg mL-1); group 2- animals with a medium level (between 20 and 30 mg mL-1), and group 3- animals with a high level (above 30 mg mL-1). Serum total protein was determined through the biuret method and IgG was determined by radial immunodiffusion. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized, split-plot statistical design. Fluctuation of the variables along the experimental period was determined through non-linear regression by the DUD method (PROC NLIN - Non Linear SAS). Animals with low antibody acquisition started to produce antibodies earlier, reflecting a compensatory synthesis. On the other hand, animals having adequate levels exhibited an extended period of immunoglobulin catabolism and the beginning of the endogenous phase was delayed. Regardless initial levels, the fluctuations in IgG contents occurred around adequate physiological concentrations, ranging from 20 to 25 mg mL-1.
Feasibility of cultivation of sugarcane in agroforestry systems
Authors: Pinto Luís Fernando Guedes , Bernardes Marcos Silveira , Sparovek Gerd
Published: April 2005

Brazil is the world's main sugarcane producer and the production system has changed abiding to legal and technical recommendation. In Piracicaba many smallholders grow sugarcane in steep areas. Under such situation, mechanization at harvest makes cultivation impossible. This work assess the viability of agroforestry systems on joining crop production and conservation of natural resources. Soils at 12-20% slope class were identified, tree species which could be cultivated along with sugarcane were selected, and the design of the systems to be adopted was evaluated. Identified area occupies 11,556 ha and the most representative soil types are Typic Kandiuldult and Lithic Hapludoll. The exotic species coconut, eucalyptus, pejibaye and rubber, and eight native species have potential to be grown in contourhedgerows with sugarcane. Initial planting of exotic, domesticated trees is recommended, and gradual introduction of native, non-domesticated species, can be set according to their ecological requirements.
Ethylene and lettuce seed germination
Authors: Nascimento Warley Marcos
Published: April 2005

Ethylene can stimulate seed germination and overcome dormancy in many species. For instance, the inhibitory effect of high temperature on lettuce seed germination can be overcome by exogenous ethylene. Involvement of ethylene in seed germination is a widely accepted fact, but the mechanistic details are poorly understood. A critical factor in ethylene studies is the response of seed germination properties to various ethylene inhibitors. Lettuce seed has been used as a model to study the role of ethylene in seed germination at high temperature. The role of ethylene in germination is not known but either ethylene evolution or addition of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxilic acid (ACC) have been associated with increased activity of endo-beta-mannanase, a cell-wall enzyme that weakens the endosperm and allows lettuce seed to germinate at high temperature. This review describes some results on seed germination studies in response to ethylene and its possible role in promoting germination at high temperature.
Quality characteristics of Longissimus dorsi muscle from Bos indicus animals treated with vitamin D3
Authors: Pedreira Aparecida Carla de Moura Silveira , Luchiari Filho Albino , Leite Vanderley Benedito de Oliveira , Carvalho Marina Hojaij
Published: April 2005

Among several techniques to improve beef tenderness, vitamin D3, important for calcium mobilization, has recently been developed as an alternative. It acts on the intracellular calcium-dependent proteases (mu- and m-calpain). Ten days prior to slaughter, 36 Nelore steers were fed 0, 3, 6 and 9 million IU of supplemental vitamin D3 (D3) per animal per day (an-1 d-1). Animals were slaughtered and tenderness (shear force), cooking losses (1, 8 and 15 days of aging), sensory evaluation, and minerals in blood plasma and muscle (Longissimus dorsi) were measured. There were no differences (P > 0.05) among treatments for blood plasma and muscle mineral concentration, evaporation losses, and sensory juiciness. For drip and total loss, the smallest losses were for the 6 × 10(6) IU an-1 d-1 treatment. The control treatment resulted in lowest shear force and aging also tended to lower resistance to shearing. The 3 × 10(6) IU an-1 d-1 treatment had a positive effect on tenderness, flavor and overall palatability. High levels of supplemental D3 did not improve the quality characteristicsof Longissimus dorsi muscle from Bos indicus animals.
Colored polyethylene soil covers and grafting effects on cucumber flowering and yield
Authors: Fonseca Inês Cristina de Batista , Klar Antonio Evaldo , Goto Rumy , Neves Carmen Silvia Vieira Janeiro
Published: April 2005

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is one of the most cultivated vegetable crops in plastic greenhouses in Brazil because of the short cycle and its high economic value in off-season harvests. To better understand this management technique the effect of different colored polyethylene soil covers was evaluated in relation to flowering and yield of the hybrid cucumber 'Yoshinari' grafted or not on the hybrid squash 'Ikky'. The polyethylene cover colors were black, white on black and green plus a control without cover. Covered but not grafted crops had a more uniform flowering distribution. The number of flowers was greater for the white/black grafted treatment. All the polyethylene covers favored flowering for the non grafted plants. Grafting reduced flowering for the black or green polyethylene covers treatments. The fruit set increased with the use of polyethylene cover but was not influenced by grafting. The uniform distribution of flowering remained during fruiting only for grafted plants and soil covered with black or green polyethylene. Both polyethylene cover and grafting favored early harvesting. The 'Yoshinari'/'Ikky' graft caused taller plants but fruit were thicker and smaller and did not meet the commercial standard. The best quality fruit and highest yields were obtained in the black and white/black treatments, without grafting.
Compatibility between the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana and insecticides used in coffee plantations
Authors: Oliveira Carolina Natali de , Neves Pedro Manuel Oliveira Janeiro , Kawazoe Lídio Sueki
Published: April 2005

Microbial control in integrated pest management (IPM) programs of coffee plantations is an important factor for the reduction of pest population densities. The use of selective pesticides can be associated with entomopathogens, increasing the efficiency of the control and reducing the use of required insecticides. The in vitro fungitoxic effect of insecticide formulations of Thiamethoxam, Cyfluthrin, Deltamethrin, Alpha-Cypermethrin, Triazophos, Chlorpyrifos, Fenpropathrin and Endosulfan and Beauveria bassiana (CG 425 strain) was evaluated at three concentrations (FR = average field recommendation; 0.5 ´ FR and 2 ´ FR). Effects of these products on conidia germination, vegetative growth and sporulation were compared. Only five insecticides, at the FR concentration, promoted conidia viability higher than 60%. Viability should be considered the most important factor to be evaluated since it is the first step of the infection process. The insecticide formulations of Alpha-Cypermethrin, Thiamethoxam and Cyfluthrin caused the lower inhibition level on conidia germination at the two lower concentrations, with no difference in relation to the control. With respect to vegetative growth analysis, Thiamethoxam at the two lower concentrations was not found to cause radial growth inhibition. Thiamethoxam caused the smallest inhibition level with regard to conidia production. The use of Alpha-Cypermethrin and Thiamethoxam formulations in coffee IPM programs for a B. bassiana inoculum conservation strategy are recommended, since these products were compatible with the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (CG 425), an important natural control agent of the coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei.
Silicon accumulation and water deficit tolerance in Brachiaria grasses
Authors: Melo Suzana Pereira de , Korndörfer Gaspar Henrique , Korndörfer Clotilde Maria , Lana Regina Maria Quintão , Santana Denise Garcia de
Published: April 2005

The beneficial effects of silicon (Si) fertilization have been observed for several plant species, especially when submitted to stress, either biotic or abiotic. Among the possible reasons for the greater adaptability and resistance of brachiaria grass in areas of low fertility soils in Brazilian savanna, stands its capacity of absorbing and accumulating Si in aerial parts. To evaluate the effect of Si on dry matter yield of Brachiaria decumbens Stapf and Brachiaria brizantha Hochst, grown under two soil moisture regimes, a trial was set up in a completely randomized design factorial scheme (5 × 2 × 2), with five Si rates: (0; 242; 484; 968 and 1,452 kg ha-1), two soil water tensions (60% and 80% of field capacity) and the two brachiaria species. The experiment was installed in a greenhouse, using one of the most representative soils in the region under cerrado, Typic Haplustox. Both brachiaria species can be considered Si-accumulating plants, since they present high Si contents in their aerial parts. Application of Si to the soil increased the contents of this element in both grass species but did not change their tolerance to water deficit, and did not affect dry matter yield.
Cold storage of 'Tahiti' lime treated with 1-methylcyclopropene
Authors: Jomori Maria Luiza Lye , Kluge Ricardo Alfredo , Jacomino Angelo Pedro
Published: April 2005

The storage of 'Tahiti' limes under low temperatures enables the extension of the commercialization period. However the loss of the skin green color and the occurrence of chilling injuries prevent such advantage. The purpose of this work was to verify the efficiency of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), an inhibition of ethylene action, during the cold storage of 'Tahiti' lime. Fruits were treated for 12 hours with 1-methylcyclopropene at concentrations of 0 or 1.0 mL L-1 and then were stored at 5 or 10ºC for 30, 60 and 90 days of storage (+ 3 days of simulated marketing at 20ºC). Application of 1-MCP conserved the color of stored fruits at 10ºC during 30 days. Fruits treated with 1-MCP and stored at 5ºC presented less respiration than non-treated fruits. High levels of ethanol and acetaldehyde were observed after 60 days in non-treated fruits. The occurrence of chilling injuries on fruits was not verified after a 30-day storage period, however after 60 days of storage, 40 to 58% of fruits kept at 5ºC presented chilling injuries. All fruits stored at 5ºC presented chilling injuries after 90 days.
In vitro culture from mature seeds of Passiflora species
Authors: Guzzo Flavia , Ceoldo Stefania , Andreetta Filippo , Levi Marisa
Published: April 2005

The genus Passiflora comprises hundred species, mainly native of the South American tropics and rainforests, which are grouped into 21 subgenera. Some species are widely studied for their economic importance and are chiefly cultivated for production of fruit juice. To obtain a continuous source of material for a screening of secondary metabolites, zygotic embryo culture was attempted for 62 Passiflora species, starting from seeds mainly collected in the wild. Twenty nine of these species produced calli, which had very different growth rates. Plants were successfully regenerated from calli of 13 different species. For 25 of the responsive species this is the first report of in vitro culture.
Gamma radiation in papaya harvested at three stages of maturation
Authors: Pimentel Rodrigo Meirelles de Azevedo , Walder Julio Marcos Melges
Published: April 2005

Papaya is a fragile, perishable fruit, highly accepted worldwide. To keep the quality of papaya from harvest to the consumers, conservation techniques are often used; among them is the application of gamma irradiation. The objective of this work was to evaluate gamma irradiation in papayas harvested at three degrees of maturation, in order to increase shelf life. Papayas were harvested in perfect quality conditions and selected by skin coloration into three distinct degrees of maturation: maturation 0, or beginning of yellow coloration; maturation 1, yellow stripes more developed, and maturation 2, one third yellow. Half of them were irradiated with 0.75 kGy, while the other half became control treatment. They were analyzed in four periods of conservation, which were 1 DAI (days after irradiation refrigerated at 11 ± 1°C), 14 DAI, 14 DAI + 3 DRT (room temperature at 24° ± 2°C) and 14 DAI + 6 DRT. The papaya maturation degree at harvest did not influence the radiation effect. Irradiation maintained firmness of papaya and, therefore, delayed ripening; modified the green color of papaya to a lighter, more intense tone, which determined more homogeneity in the development of the skin's yellow color (greater values of L* and croma). There was no effect of irradiation in papaya weight loss, occurrence of diseases, croma of flesh color, pH and total soluble solids contents.
Genetic analysis for sooty mold resistance and heart of palm yield in Archontophoenix
Authors: Bovi Marilene Leão Alves , Resende Marcos Deon Vilela de , Sáes Luís Alberto , Uzzo Roberta Pierry
Published: April 2005

Archontophoenix palms, utilized both as ornamental species and as a source of high-quality heart of palm, are susceptible to sooty mold, a disease coupled with aphid infestation, which affects photosynthesis and causes unpleasant, darkish palm appearance. Scoring rates for sooty mold resistance and three growth traits were assessed under field conditions in 24 open-pollinated half-sibs families, 28 months after planting, aiming to identify genetic variability for sooty mold resistance; estimate genetic parameters for this trait and plant height, diameter and number of leaves; estimate genetic and phenotypic correlation for the four traits and evaluate selection methods for heart of palm production through multi-trait index selection based on growth traits. There were genetic differences among families for all traits. The low coefficient of variation for sooty mold (9.48%) indicates that the visual rating method adopted was effective and feasible for comparing aphid plus sooty mold infestation levels in Archontophoenix. Narrow sense heritability estimates were low and medium for growth traits (0.10, 0.26 and 0.26 for leaves number, plant diameter and height, respectively) and very high (0.91) for sooty mold resistance. Genetic correlation was found between sooty mold resistance and plant height. This positive relationship indicates that culling of very susceptible palms can be done possibily without interference in the follow up indirect selection for heart of palm yield. Some selection strategies were presented, showing that possible genetic gain could range from 6.23 to 11.83%, depending on the selection method adopted and on the effective restriction of the population size.
Models to estimate phytomass accumulation of hydroponic lettuce
Authors: Lopes Sidinei José , Dourado Neto Durval , Manfron Paulo Augusto , Jasniewicz Luís Renato
Published: April 2005

The protected and hydroponics cultivation are increasing in Brazil, demanding a better knowledge of crop performance in this environment. Plant dry matter accumulation as a function of solar radiation, temperature, relative humidity and other weather parameters in greenhouse is different when compared with field cultivation. With the purpose of proposing models to characterize the temporal variation of leaf and total dry matter production of hydroponics-grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and to determine the flowering period and the maximum dry matter accumulation rate as a function of plant relative development (relative degree-days), solar radiation and effective thermal index, two experiments (Spring and Autumn) were carried out in the greenhouse, at Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Growth and development models are useful in obtaining basic information on the plant ´ environment interactions, maximizing the use of resources in greenhouse, as well as, to define the best form of crop management. The cultivar Vera was chosen as function of its earliness. Models were proposed to estimate the temporal variation of dry matter accumulation, where the best results for relative development were obtained using effective degree-days, characterizing the importance of the air temperature for the vegetative phase and the solar radiation for the reproductive. The yield and quality of the lettuce seeds evidenced a high potential of hydroponics technique.
Conidiogenesis of deteriorated variant of the strain Abnc of Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Giancoli Ágata Cristiane Huppert , Pizzirani-Kleiner Aline Aparecida
Published: April 2005

The Abnc strain of A. nidulans carries the bncA1 gene (binucleated conidia), which induces the formation of binucleate and trinucleate conidia, displaying a chromosome I duplicated area and shifted to the chromosome II (I->II), and bringing forth genetic instability with degenerated sectors. This work has considered in a cytological level the conidiogenesis of the deteriorated variants isolated from the Abnc strain of A. nidulans, observing the event at the level of structural alterations, which composes the conidiophore, and the variations in the number of sterigmata and conidia nuclei. Cytogenetic analyses of conidiogenesis were accomplished in predetermined periods, under Giemsa stain, to observe the nuclei and analysis through the Scanning Electronic Microscopy, and also the structures that composes the conidiophore. The analyzed, deteriorated variants presented alterations in the cell-foot, metulae and phialides structure, conidiophore number and conidias reduction, and the formation of secondary conidiophores. These alterations can be related to genes for the development, bristle, and activities of NIMA e NINXcdc2 (involved in morphogenesis regulatory cycle) that induce the expression of brislte, establishing the link to the regulation and expression of the genes control throughout the conidiophore development.
Accelerated aging and seedling field emergence in soybean
Authors: Torres Reynaldo Melo , Vieira Roberval Daiton , Panobianco Maristela
Published: April 2005

Information regarding the relationship between laboratory seed vigor testing and seedling field emergence is very important to estimate seed performance after sowing and help producers adopt the best procedures to improve stand establishment. The objective of the present study was to relate accelerated aging (AA) test results to soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] seedling field emergence results based on data obtained over three agricultural years. The following evaluations were made: seed water content, standard germination, accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, and seedling field emergence. There was a close association between planting environmental conditions, seed physiological quality and seedling field emergence. The most accurate predictions were obtained for AA values > 90%, when field emergence was higher than 80% (r² = 0.90). Based on the results it was concluded that the AA test provided an accurate estimate of field emergence of soybean seedlings. However, as seedbed environmental conditions became less favorable, the ability of the AA test to estimate field performance significantly decreased.
Silicon sources for rice crop
Authors: Pereira Hamilton Seron , Korndörfer Gaspar Henrique , Vidal Anelisa de Aquino , Camargo Mônica Sartori de
Published: April 2005

Although silicon is not an essential nutrient, its application is beneficial for plant growth and development. To evaluate silicon sources in relation to agronomic efficiency and economic viability in rice crops (Oryza sativa L.), a greenhouse experiment was conducted, Quartzipsamment soil, in a completely randomized experimental design (n = 4). Treatments were 12 silicon sources and a control. Silicon was applied at the rate of 125 kg Si ha-1. Data were compared to a standard response curve for Si using the standard source Wollastonite at rates of 0, 125, 250, 375, and 500 kg Si ha-1. All treatments received CaCO3 and MgCO3 to balance pH, Ca and Mg. One hundred and fifty days after sowing, evaluations on dry matter yield in the above-ground part of plants, grain yield, and Si contents in the soil and plant tissues were performed. Wollastonite had linear response, increasing silicon in the soil and plants with increasing application rates. Differences between silicon sources in relation to Si uptake were observed. Phosphate slag provided the highest Si uptake, followed by Wollastonite and electric furnace silicates which however, did not show differed among themselves. The highest Si accumulation in grain was observed for stainless steel, which significantly differed from the control, silicate clay, Wollastonite, and AF2 (blast furnace of the company 2) slag. Silicate clay showed the lowest Si accumulation in grain and did not differ from the control, AF2 slag, AF1 slag, schist ash, schist, and LD4 (furnace steel type LD of the company 4) slag.
Root systems and soil microbial biomass under no-tillage system
Authors: Venzke Filho Solismar de Paiva , Feigl Brigitte Josefine , Piccolo Marisa de Cássia , Fante Jr. Lorival , Siqueira Neto Marcos , Cerri Carlos Clemente
Published: April 2005

Some root parameters such as distribution, length, diameter and dry matter are inherent to plant species. Roots can influence microbial population during vegetative cycle through the rhizodeposits and, after senescence, integrating the soil organic matter pool. Since they represent labile substrates, especially regarding nitrogen, they can determine the rate of nutrient availability to the next crop cultivated under no-tillage (NT). The root systems of two crop species: maize (Zea mays L.) cultivar Cargill 909 and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar Embrapa 59, were compared in the field, and their influence on spatial distribution of the microbial C and N in a clayey-textured Typic Hapludox cultivated for 22 years under NT, at Tibagi, State of Paraná (PR), Brazil, was determined. Digital image processing and nail-plate techniques were used to evaluate 40 plots of a 80 ´ 50 ´ 3 cm soil profile. It was observed that 36% and 30% of the maize and soybeans roots, respectively, are concentrated in the 0 to 10 cm soil layer. The percent distribution of root dry matter was similar for both crops. The maize roots presented a total of 1,324 kg C ha-1 and 58 kg N ha-1, with higher root dry matter density and more roots in decomposition in the upper soil layer, decreasing with depth. The soybean roots (392 kg C ha-1 and 21 kg N ha-1) showed higher number of thinner roots and higher density per length unity compared to the maize. The maize roots enhanced microbial-C down to deeper soil layers than did the soybean roots. The microbial N presented a better correlation with the concentration of thin active roots and with roots in decomposition or in indefinite shape, possibly because of higher concentration of C and N easily assimilated by soil microorganisms.
Biology of Microctonus sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a parasitoid of Cyrtomon luridus BOH. (Coleoptera: Ccurculionidae)
Authors: Tironi Paulo , von Treuenfels Adrian , Parra José Roberto Postali
Published: April 2005

Cyrtomon luridus (Boh.), a native insect of wild Solanaceae, has adapted to the medicinal plant Duboisia sp., introduced from Australia, causing damages up to 100% mortality. Microctonus sp. is the most important natural enemy of C. luridus and its potential for biological control was investigated in this work. This study was carried out in Arapongas, Paraná State, Brazil, from 1994 to 1996. Parasitism of C. luridus by Microctonus sp. was highest from February through June (maximum of 54% in May 1996), when the C. luridus adult population was decreasing. The female sex ratio of Microctonus sp. under natural conditions was 0.57 to 0.69, which was close to 1 male : 2 female. Production of males occurs parthenogetically (arrhenotoky). In the laboratory, parasitism reached 40% when two adult C. luridus were exposed per parasitoid. The number of Microctonus sp. adults that emerged per parasitized beetle ranged from 4.7 to 14.2. Larval-pupal viability was 31.7 to 64.8% and the female sex ratio ranged from 0.0 to 0.37, with prevalence of males. The egg-pupal period was 12.7 days and the pupal-adult period was 10.7 days, resulting in a mean life cycle (egg-adult) of 22.4 days for this parasitoid (25ºC, 70% R.H.). This is the first report of a new species of Microctonus sp. in C. luridus.
Biology of Anticarsia gemmatalis on soybean genotypes with different degrees of resistance to insects
Authors: Fugi Cristina Gomes Quevedo , Lourenção André Luiz , Parra José Roberto Postali
Published: April 2005

A knowledge of the mechanisms of resistance present in genetic materials should help breeding programs in developing cultivars resistant to insects. The biology of Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was studied on leaves of four soybean genotypes with different degrees of resistance to insects. The genotypes evaluated were cultivars IAC 17 and IAC 24, resistant to defoliators and stink bugs, line PI 229358, a source of multiple resistance to insects and used as parent in various lines selected for resistance to A. gemmatalis, and 'IAC PL-1', the susceptible control. The experiments were carried out in the laboratory, under controlled conditions of temperature (25 ± 2ºC), relative humidity (60 ± 10%) and photoperiod (14h). First instar larvae were placed in Petri dishes and fed leaves of each genotype, detached from plants at the R1 and R2 stages (beginning and full bloom). Later on, insect couples were maintained in 25 PVC cages to evaluate parameters of the adult stage. 'IAC 17' and 'IAC 24' promoted low viability of the larval, pupal, and egg stages, causing adult deformation and a reduction of the number of eggs per female. PI 229358 prolonged the immature stage and reduced pupal weight, egg viability, and adult longevity. Considering all tests, 'IAC 17' and 'IAC 24' were characterized as having antibiosis-type resistance, and 'IAC PL-1' demonstrated to be a genotype suitable for insect development.