bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of three distinct forms of lipases from Candida rugosa produced in solid state fermentation
Authors: Benjamin Sailas , Pandey Ashok
Published: April 2005

Three distinct forms (Lip A, Lip B and Lip C) of extra-cellular lipases (EC- 3.1.1.3), produced by Candida rugosa in solid state fermentation (SSF) were purified and characterised. SSF was carried out in glass columns using coconut oil cake and wheat bran. The enzyme was purified from the aqueous extract of fermented matter by ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis, ultra-filtration and gel filtration using Sephadex-200 to a 43-fold purification and 64.35-mg/ml specific activity. SDS-PAGE of purified enzyme revealed three distinct bands, indicating the existence of three iso-forms, Lip A, Lip B and Lip C with apparent molecular weight about 64,000, 62,000 and 60,000 Da, respectively. All the three iso-forms were optimally active at 35-40ºC and pH 7-8. They showed marked differences in their Km values with different saturated and unsaturated triacyl glycerols. Ag++ and Hg++ strongly inhibited enzyme activity of all the iso-forms, Mn++ has no effect and Ca++ and Mg++ enhanced the activity. EDTA also strongly inhibited the enzyme activities of iso-forms. However, activities of all the three lipases were completely inhibited by serine protease inhibitors such as 3,4-dichloroisocoumarin, pefabloc and partially by phenylmethanesulphonyl fluoride. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the purification and characterisation of C. rugosa lipase iso-forms from solid cultures. These lipase iso-forms with diverse characteristics produced in solid cultures may find potential application in biomedical field.
Influence of ethanol concentration, addition of spices extract, and level of sweetness on physico-chemical characteristics and sensory quality of apple vermouth
Authors: Joshi Vinod K. , Sandhu Danwant K.
Published: April 2005

The composition of apple base wine was found to be suitable for conversion into vermouth. The spices extract contained more TSS, tannins, esters, volatile acid but lower titrable acid than apple base wine. To optimize and develop apple vermouth with different ethanol concentrations (12%, 15%, 18%), sugar content (4%, 8%) and spices extract (2.5% and 5.0%) was prepared and was evaluated. Significant differences in physico-chemical characteristics and sensory quality amongst the vermouths having different levels of alcohol, sugar and spices extract were noted. Generally, increasing ethanol content decreased titrable acidity, tannins, macroelements and colour units while micro-elements, viscosity and total esters were increased. Increased sugar level affected TSS, apparent viscosity, pH, esters, free aldehyde, total sugar, K, Cu and Mn contents. Level of spices extract (2.5 & 5.0) did not effect TSS (ºB), titrable acidity, colour, total sugar, total tannins, volatile acidity, increased mineral contents except for K, esters and aldehyde contents. Increase in alcohol content upto 15% increased the sensory score of the product. Increased quantity of spices extract, however, decreased the mean sensory quality of vermouth. However, sensory scores for 4 or 8% sugar and 2.5 or, 5.0% spices extracted were similar. A product with 15% alcohol, 4% sugar and 2.5% spices extract was preferred the most in overall sensory quality. The studies revealed that apple fruit is suitable for making vermouth by the method described. The spices, herbs, their parts and the quantities used are also reported.
Gas exchange and leaf specific mass of different foliar cohorts of the wintergreen shrub Aristotelia chilensis (Mol.) stuntz (Eleocarpaceae) fifteen days before the flowering and the fall of the old cohort
Authors: Prado Carlos Henrique B. A. , Damascos María A.
Published: April 2005

In the beginning of the spring Aristotelia chilensis sheds the old cohort, forms a new one and flowers. Fifteen days before the flowering and the fall we measured net photosynthesis (A), transpiration (E), water use efficiency (WUE), specific leaf mass (SLM) and area and mass of leaves per branch in old and new cohorts. Under low irradiance the old cohort exhibited higher mean values of A and WUE on area bases (P<0.05). Under high irradiance A and WUE on mass bases were higher in new cohort due to its lower SLM (42.10 gm-2) in relation to old cohort (79.53 gm-2). Because old cohort showed 3.7 times more dry mass per branch it was able to counterbalance its lower performance on mass bases. It was concluded that old cohort was an important source of carbon during two powerful sink processes in the beginning of the spring: new leaves cohort construction and flowering.
Dissolved Nitrogen and Phosphorus Dynamics in the Lower Portion of the Paraiba do Sul River, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
Authors: Silva Mônica Aparecida Leite , Calasans Claudia Ferreira , Ovalle Alvaro Ramon Coelho , Rezende Carlos Eduardo
Published: April 2005

The Paraíba do Sul river lower reach was monitored monthly between August 1995 and July 1996. This study was aimed at evaluating the temporal dynamics of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus and its main controlling factors. Minimum and maximum observed values were as follows: N-NO2- - 0.08/0.51; N-NO3- - 21/57; N-NH4+ - 1.4/6.7; DON - 4.9/86.0; DIN -24.5/60.9; P-PO4(3-) - 0.43/1.66; DOP - 0.05/0.92; pH - 6.2/7.8; Dissolved Oxygen - 6.4/10.1; Conductivity - 48/74; Temperature - 20.5/31.1 (Nutrients - µM; Dissolved Oxygen - mg/l; Conductivity - µS/cm; Temperature - °C). Discharge presented a characteristic seasonal variation, showing a peak in January. Increasing P-PO4(3-), DOP, N-NH4+ and N-NO2- concentrations with increasing discharges could be associated to the partial flooding of inumerous fluvial islands and floodplains and to the agricultural practices of sugar cane crops that during the wet season could transfer nitrogen and phosphorus compounds to the fluvial channel.
Occurrence of Larvae and Juveniles of Eucinostomus argenteus, Eucinostomus gula, Menticirrhus americanus, Menticirrhus littoralis, Umbrina coroides and Micropogonias furnieri at Pontal do Sul beach, Paraná
Authors: Godefroid Rodrigo Santiago , Santos César , Hofstaetter Marion , Spach Henry Louis
Published: April 2005

Despite its importance, most ichthyoplankton studies in the South-Southeastern coast of Brazil, have been accomplished on the continental shelf. Regarding the beach environment, recognized as a nursery, little is known about the ichthyoplankton. We analyzed 288 samples collected with a 18 by 2 m seine net, 1 mm mesh and a conical plankton net, with a mesh of 300 mum and a 60 cm mouth. Eucinostomus argenteus comprised 78 % of the larvae and juveniles caught in the samples. The occurrence of gerreids was strongly concentrated in the summer, while the Menticirrhus littoralis, Menticirrhus americanus and Umbrina coroides were present during all seasons. M.littoralis was most abundant during spring, while M. americanus and U. coroides dominated during winter. For all species, the largest captures occurred during low tide. Environmental preferences are indicated in the principal component analysis, with the larvae and juveniles of E. argenteus and E. gula positively correlated with smaller waves and smaller morphodynamism, whereas M. americanus, U. coroides and M. furnieri seem to prefer periods with lower temperatures and larger morphodynamism.
Metabolism and Gaseous Exchanges in Two Coastal Lagoons from Rio de Janeiro with Distinct Limnological Characteristics
Authors: Thomaz Sidinei M. , Enrich-Prast Alex , Gonçalves Jr. José F. , Santos Anderson M. dos , Esteves Francisco A.
Published: April 2005

The global metabolism and exchange of gases with the atmosphere were measured during a diel cycle in two tropical coastal lagoons, using the curves of carbon dioxide and dissolved oxygen. Heterotrophic metabolism (net CO2 production and net O2 consumption) was observed in a black water lagoon (Comprida), and autotrophic metabolism (net O2 production and net CO2 consumption) in a clear water lagoon (Imboassica). These differences were attributed to the limnological characteristics of both ecosystems, especially to dissolved organic carbon and the attenuation coefficient of light, which are much higher in the first environment. During the diel cycle analyzed there was a net release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere in the first lagoon and a net uptake by the water in the second one. Thus, the importance of coastal lagoons for the global carbon budget deserves further study.
Evaluation of the Antidiabetic and Antibacterial Activity of Cissus sicyoides
Authors: Beltrame Flavio Luis , Pessini Greisiele Lorena , Doro Dani Luce , Dias Filho Benedito Prado , Bazotte Roberto Barbosa , Cortez Diógenes Aparício Garcia
Published: April 2005

In this work we investigated the antidiabetic and antibacterial effect of Cissus sicyoides (CS) from Brazil. Diabetic rats that received water (A group) or extracts from the aerial parts of the plant (Cs group) during four weeks were employed. After this period, serum levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides were measured. Glycemia was not affected by treatment with CS. However, there was an increased cholesterol and triglyceride level in Cs group. In addition, bioassay-guided fractionation of methanolic extract from aerial parts of CS was performed for isolation of antibacterial compounds.beta-Sitosterol and sitosterol-beta-D-glucopyranoside isolated showed antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 50 mug/ml and 100 mug/ml, respectively. In spite of popular belief, CS did not show antidiabetic activity. However, two compounds isolated from aerial parts of the plant (beta-sitosterol and sitosterol-beta-D-glucopyranoside) showed antibacterial activity.
Occurrence of Diaretiella rapae (Mc´Intosh, 1855) (Hymenoptera: Aphidiidae) Parasitising Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach, 1843) and Brevicoryne brassicae (L. 1758) (Homoptera: Aphididae) in Brassica napus in Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Mussury Rosilda Mara , Fernandes Wedson Desidério
Published: April 2005

The occurrence of Diaretiella rapae parasitising Lipaphis erysimi and Brevicoryne brassicae in canola field (Brassica napus) was evaluated through two sample methods in Dourados-MS. The methods, used weekly, were: entomologic sweep net and plants sacking. The aphids population was observed from initial to the senescence plant development. Aphids were more abundant during the flowering phase, and they were usually located in the stems of the inflorescence and development fruits. In this phase the largest parasitism level for D. rapae (89,7%) occurred. The sample method with a sweep net captured significantly (t=4,484, P <= 0,01) more D. rapae while sacking method captured more parasitise aphids (t=2,199 with P <= 0,05) and active aphids (t=3,513, P <= 0,01).
Food Plants Eaten by Amazonian Manatees (Trichechus inunguis, Mammalia : Sirenia)
Authors: Colares Ioni G. , Colares Elton P.
Published: April 2005

To determine the feeding habits of the Amazonian manatee Trichechus inunguis in some Central Amazonian rivers and lakes, we compared plant epidermis found in the stomach contents and/or faeces of animals with a reference collection of plants present in the studied areas. Twenty five samples from digestive tracts of animals found dead and 25 faeces samples found floating were analyzed. From these samples, 24 aquatic macrophytes were identified. The Gramineae family was identified in 96% of the samples, Paspalum repens and Echinochloa polystachya being the most abundant in the samples. The second most frequent family was the Pontederiaceae primarily Eichhornia crassipes. During the high water period, the animals showed a more selective diet (eight identified species). In the low water period, when food was more scarce, the animals showed a larger diversity of species in their diet (21 species of plants). Differences in the diet among the two studied areas reflected the physiographics characteristics of the region. Amazonian manatees fed mostly on emergent plants.
Somatic Embryogenesis in Parana Pine (Araucaria angustifolia (Bert.) O. Kuntze)
Authors: Santos André Luis Wendt dos , Silveira Vanildo , Steiner Neusa , Vidor Mário , Guerra Miguel Pedro
Published: April 2005

Embryogenic cultures of Araucaria angustifolia were induced from dominant and non-dominant zygotic embryos excised from immature seeds proceeding from three different genotypes and five harvest dates. Zygotic embryos were inoculated in inductive culture medium LP and BM supplemented with or without plant growth regulators 2,4-D (5 µM), BA (2 µM) and Kin (2 µM). The genotype of the mother tree and the developmental explant stage affected the induction frequency. In the maintenance phase, embryogenic cultures were maintained at continuous repetitive cell cycles every 20 days in semi-solid or liquid medium. In the maturation phase the culture medium was supplemented with different types and levels of growth regulators, osmotic agents, carbohydrates and derived. Embryogenic cultures inoculated in culture medium supplemented with PEG 3350 (6 and 9%), maltose (6 and 9%), plus BA and Kin (1 µM each) resulted in the progression of somatic embryos to globular and torpedo developmental stages.
Histopathologic changes in the kidney tissue of Prochilodus lineatus Valenciennes, 1836 (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae) induced by sublethal concentration of Trichlorfon exposure
Authors: Veiga Marcelo Leite da , Rodrigues Edson de Lara , Pacheco Fabio Juliano , Ranzani-Paiva Maria José Tavares
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out to analyse the kidney histopathological alterations of "curimbatá", Prochilodus lineatus, were analyzed. An acute bioassay was made by the water contamination with 0.2muml/l of Dipterex 500 (Trichlorfon). The kidney tissue collected after 24 hours of exposure showed an enlargement of intercapsular space with glomerular atrophy, hypertrophy of the kidney tube cells, with small granules on its cytoplasm and little nuclear alteration. Blood overflowing from capillaries with pyknotic nuclei and vacuoles in the cytoplasm it was also noticed. After 48 hours, the kidney tissue showed glomerular expansion, impossibility to visualize the intercapsular space as well as cytoplasm limit of many cells. The parietal capsular epithelium and the basal membrane presented loss of cell content, the tubular cells appeared swollen vacuolated and with thin and thick cytoplasmatic granulations. Some of the cell nuclei kept relatively regular form with a condensed chromatin on its central region, while others showed themselves relatively small and pyknotics advancing to a cariolisis and necrosis focus.
A laboratory method to estimate the efficiency of plant extract to neutralize soil acidity
Authors: Cassiolato Marcelo E. , Miyazawa Mário , Meda Anderson R. , Pavan Marcos A.
Published: April 2005

Water-soluble plant organic compounds have been proposed to be efficient in alleviating soil acidity. Laboratory methods were evaluated to estimate the efficiency of plant extracts to neutralize soil acidity. Plant samples were dried at 65ºC for 48 h and ground to pass 1 mm sieve. Plant extraction procedure was: transfer 3.0 g of plant sample to a becker, add 150 ml of deionized water, shake for 8 h at 175 rpm and filter. Three laboratory methods were evaluated: sigma (Ca+Mg+K) of the plant extracts; electrical conductivity of the plant extracts and titration of plant extracts with NaOH solution between pH 3 to 7. These methods were compared with the effect of the plant extracts on acid soil chemistry. All laboratory methods were related with soil reaction. Increasing sigma (Ca+Mg+K), electrical conductivity and the volume of NaOH solution spent to neutralize H+ ion of the plant extracts were correlated with the effect of plant extract on increasing soil pH and exchangeable Ca and decreasing exchangeable Al. It is proposed the electrical conductivity method for estimating the efficiency of plant extract to neutralize soil acidity because it is easily adapted for routine analysis and uses simple instrumentations and materials.
Anatomical Study of Somatic Embryogenesis in Glycine max (L.) Merrill
Authors: Fernando Juliana Aparecida , Vieira Maria Lúcia Carneiro , Geraldi Isaías Olívio , Appezzato-da-Glória Beatriz
Published: April 2005

A comparative anatomical analysis of somatic embryogenesis in two soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) genotypes was carried out. The somatic embryos were originated from cotyledonary explants obtained from immature zygotic embryos. The medium used for somatic embryogenesis induction was Murashige and Skoog, 1962, salts and Gamborg et al., 1968, vitamins (MSB) supplemented with 0.8 mg.L-1 of 2,4-D for genotype PI 123439 and 40 mg.L-1 of 2,4-D for ‘Williams 82’. Globular structures, constituted by meristematic cells, originated from subepidermal cell divisions of the cotyledonary mesophyll. In PI 123439, the globular structures presented tracheary differentiation among meristematic cells and they could follow distinct morphogenetic process depending on their location along the explant. For ‘Williams 82’ it was observed globular structures along the cotyledonary explant surface. They gave rise to somatic embryos. These embryos showed different morphologies and they were classified based on their shape and number of cotyledons. The ability of these morphological types to convert to plantlets was discussed.
Biological Response of Tradescantia Stamen-hairs to High Levels of Natural Radiation in the Poços de Caldas Plateau
Authors: Gomes Heliana de Azevedo , Nouailhetas Yannick , Silva Nivaldo Carlos da , Mezrahi Arnaldo , Almeida Carlos E. Bonacossa de , Rodrigues Geraldo Stachetti
Published: April 2005

The objective of the present study was to apply a highly sensitive botanical test of mutagenicity (the Tradescantia stamen-hair mutation bioassay) to assess in situ the biological responses induced by naturally occurring radiation in the Poços de Caldas Plateau. The mutagenesis was evaluated in environments presenting gamma radiation exposure rates ranging from 1.5 muR.min-1 up to 100.0 muR.min-1. The results consistently showed only borderline increases in mutation frequencies in plants exposed to areas with high radiation background, as compared to non-exposed plants. It was concluded that the levels of natural radiation prevalent in the Poços de Caldas Plateau were not sufficient to induce significant increases in mutation rate, even in the extremely sensitive Tradescantia stamen hair mutation bioassay and mutagenesis evaluation test could be a useful monitoring system for natural radiation exposure.
Check-list of the Family Lamiaceae in Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Almeida Cecília de Fátima C. B. R. de , Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino de
Published: April 2005

A survey of the family Lamiaceae in the state of Pernambuco revealed the presence of 20 genera encompassing 46 species. The genera with the highest number of exsiccatae were Hyptis and Ocimum; others had little representative material, and some taxa were collected only once. Regarding the phytogeographical distribution in the state, 9.1% of the registrations of species occurred in the coastal zone, 54.5% in the forest zone and 36.3% in the caatinga zone.
Photosynthesis, Growth and Development of Tabebuia avellanedae Lor. ex Griseb. (Bignoniaceae) in Flooded Soil
Authors: Davanso Viviane M. , Souza Luiz A. de , Medri Moacyr E. , Pimenta José A. , Bianchini Edmilson
Published: April 2005

Morphological, anatomical and ecophysiological modifications caused by flooding in the growth and development of Tabebuia avellanedae Lor. ex Griseb. (Bignoniaceae) were studied and correlated with tolerance to the excess of water in the soil. Three-month-old plants, grown in a greenhouse, underwent a period of 56 days of flooding and a post-flooding period. Photosynthesis rate and growth decreased in T. avellanedae when flooding duration increased. Though not much tolerant, plant adapted itself to short flooding periods. This relative tolerance was probably due to the capacity of T. avellanedae in developing structures which lessened flooding effects and promoted internal diffusion of oxygen from the aerial part to the roots, such as stem fissures, superficial roots and hypertrophied lenticels in the roots. As there was no great variation in the internal anatomy of T. avellanedae leaves and roots, metabolic alterations might have helped in the survival of the species during flooding.
Acid and enzymatic hydrolysis to recover reducing sugars from cassava bagasse: an economic study
Authors: Woiciechowski Adenise Lorenci , Nitsche Saul , Pandey Ashok , Soccol Carlos Ricardo
Published: April 2005

The objective of this work was to study the acid and enzymatic hydrolysis of cassava bagasse for the recovery of reducing sugars and to establish the operational costs. A statistical program "Statistica", based on the surface response was used to optimize the recovery of reducing sugars in both the processes. The process economics was determined considering the values of reducing sugars obtained at laboratory scale, and the operations costs of a cylindrical reactor of 1500 L, with flat walls at the top and bottom. The reactor was operated with 150 kg of cassava bagasse and 1350 kg of water. The yield of the acid hydrolysis was 62.4 g of reducing sugars from 100 g of cassava bagasse containing 66% starch. It represented 94.5% of reducing sugar recovery. The yield of the enzymatic hydrolysis was 77.1 g of reducing sugars from 120 g of cassava bagasse, which represented 97.3% of reducing sugars recovery. Concerning to the time, a batch of acid hydrolysis required 10 minutes, plus the time to heat and cool the reactor, and a batch of the enzymatic hydrolysis needed 25 hours and 20 minutes, plus the time to heat and to cool the reactor. Thus, the acid hydrolysis of 150 kg of cassava bagasse required US$ 34.27, and the enzymatic hydrolysis of the same amount of cassava bagasse required US$ 2470.99.
Production and properties of Xylanase from thermophilic Bacillus sp.
Authors: Cordeiro Carlos Alberto Martins , Martins Meire Lelis Leal , Luciano Angélica Bárbara , Silva Roberta Freitas da
Published: April 2005

An aerobic, thermophilic, xylanolytic bacterium was isolated from local soil. The results of 16S rRNA sequence comparisons indicated that the isolate was closely related to Bacillus caldoxylolyticus and Bacillus sp strain AK1. These organisms exhibited 94% levels of ribossomal DNA sequence homology. Studies on the xylanase characterisation from liquid cultures grown on beechwood xylan revealed that the enzyme retained 100% of activity for 2 hours at temperatures ranging from 30 to 50º C, while at 60, 70 and 100º C, 10%, 11% and 29% of the original activities were lost, respectively. The optimum pH of the enzyme was found to be between 6.5 and 7.0. After incubation of crude enzyme solution for 24 hours at 25º C and at pH 5.5 to 8.0, a decrease of about 12% of its original activity was observed.
Influence of some sugars on xylanase production by Aspergillus awamori in solid state fermentation
Authors: Lemos Judith Liliana Solórzano , Pereira Junior Nei
Published: April 2005

Aspergillus awamori showed high extracellular endoxylanase (100 U/ml) and beta-xylosidase activities (3.5 U/ml) when grown on milled sugar cane bagasse as the principal carbon source without treatment. Partial characterization of xylanases showed that the apparent values of Km were 3.12 ± 0.05 mg/ml for endoxylanase (in birchwood xylan) and 0.45 ± 0.05 mM for beta-xylosidase (in p -nitrophenyl beta-D-xylanopiranoside). Corresponding values of Vmax were 6.63 ± 0.02 and 0.078 ± 0.02 mumol/min. Gradual repression of endoxylanase activity was observed when increasing concentrations of glucose and xylose (1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g of carbohydrate / 4 g of sugar cane bagasse) were added to production media. In contrast, beta-xylosidase activity was stimulated using low levels of carbohydrates (1 g xylose or glucose/ 4 g of sugar cane bagasse).
Effect of leaf Water potential on cold tolerance of Coffea arabica L.
Authors: Caramori Lázara Pereira Campos , Caramori Paulo Henrique , Manetti Filho João
Published: April 2005

Young coffee plants from cultivar Mundo Novo of Coffea arabica were grown without irrigation for 32 consecutive days, to evaluate the effect of leaf water potential on damage caused by low temperatures, under controlled conditions. A wide range of leaf water potentials were evaluated, from - 0.45MPa (wet soil) at the beginning of the experimental period, to - 4.8MPa (severe leaf wilting) at the end. Results showed that under moderate water stress, there was a higher frequency of undamaged plants and lower frequency of severely damaged plants. These results help explain part of the regional variability observed after a frost and stress the importance of new studies associating cold and drought tolerance in coffee.
Effects of some phenolic compounds on soybean seed germination and on seed-borne fungi
Authors: Colpas Flávia Tavares , Ono Elizabeth Orika , Rodrigues João Domingos , Passos José Raimundo de Souza
Published: April 2005

Studies were carried out on the effects of coumarin, ferulic acid and naringenin on soybean seed germination and on the growth of seed-borne fungi at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg.L-1. The compounds showed good inhibition of seed germination, especially at 50 mg.L-1, but little fungistatic activity. Possible mechanisms of action are discussed.
Germination of Senna Occidentalis link: seed at different osmotic potential levels
Authors: Delachiave Maria Elena Aparecida , Pinho Sheila Zambello de
Published: April 2005

The objective of this research was to study the effect of osmotic potential and salinity on the germination of seeds of Senna occidentalis, with and without a change of solutions. The percentage and rates of germination decreased according to decrease of potential, being more drastic when the substitutions of solutions were not made. The largest reductions were observed with the PEG solutions, with and without substitutions.
Isolation of alkalophilic CGTase-producing bacteria and characterization of cyclodextrin-glycosyltransferase
Authors: Higuti lma Hiroko , Grande Simone Wichert , Sacco Roberta , Nascimento Aguinaldo José do
Published: April 2005

One hundred and twenty five soil samples were collected from the regions of roots of corn, cassava, potato, bean, sugar cane, soya, and pumpkin. From these, 75 strains were isolated that produced a yellowish halo surrounding the colonies, due to a phenolphtalein-cyclodextrin (CD) complex, and these were selected as alkalophilic CGTase-producing bacteria. All the 75 strains were identified as Bacillus firmus by microscopy and biochemical tests. The activity of the CGTase's varied from 2² to 2(10) dilutions,when assayed by CD-trichloroethylene (TCE)-complex precipitation. Strain 31 that produced the enzyme at the higher level was selected, and its enzyme was partially purified by starch adsorption (x 17) in a yield of 51%. Maximum enzyme activity occurred at pH 5.5 and 8.5. At pH 5.5, the optimum temperature was 60°C. On increased from 30°C to 85°C, the thermodynamic parameter for activation energy was 8.27 kcal.mol-1. The enzyme was inhibited by Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+.
Growth and photosynthetic capacity in two woody species of cerrado vegetation under different radiation availability
Authors: Ronquim Carlos Cesar , Prado Carlos Henrique B. de A. , Paula Nádia Figueiredo de
Published: April 2005

Seedlings of two woody species of cerrado vegetation, Copaifera langsdorffii and Eriotheca gracilipes, were studied under three different radiation availability (100, 80 and 30% transmittance). Full solar radiation brought about more biomass, higher total leaf area, higher maximal photosynthesis per crown on area or on mass bases and higher photosynthetic capacity on area bases. Only the photosynthetic capacity values on leaf mass bases were higher in both species under low radiation availability (80 and 30% transmittance). The differences of accumulated biomass appeared more clearly after 4 months of sowing but the root/shoot dry biomass ratio and height were maintained constant for both species independently of the available radiation. Cultivated under full solar radiation both species will be able to cover more suitable the two processes during seedling's phase: growth and defense.
Reproductive biology of the dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe, 1834)
Authors: Andrade Áthila Bertoncini , Machado Leonardo Francisco , Hostim-Silva Maurício , Barreiros João Pedro
Published: April 2005

Investigations were carried out about the reproductive biology of the dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe, 1834) a serranid protogynous hermaphrodite fish inhabitant of rocky bottoms from shallow waters up to 200 m depth. Samples were caught in the islands that form Arvoredo Biological Marine Reserve (SC - Brazil) and the coastal islands near Florianópolis region from March 1998 to May 2000. Data from samples of juvenile groupers on intertidal pools were used to link their occurrence in the pools to the post-spawning season. To describe the histological changes on gonads along the reproductive cycle and to establish maturation scales, 109 groupers were histologically tested for sex determination. First maturation size was determined for females (L50=470 mm; r²=0.99). The results of calculated gonadosomatic (GSI) and hepatosomatic (HSI) indexes, showed that maturation occurred along the spring months and the spawning activity during the summer with a peak in December. Liver recovery (HSI elevation) was evident in the autumn, was the post spawning season. The relationship between length and weight was W = 9 · 10-6 · TL3.1149 (r²=0.998; n=246).
Fauna living in colonies of Mussismilia hispida (Verrill) (Cnidaria: Scleractinia) in four South-eastern Brazil islands
Authors: Nogueira João Miguel de Matos
Published: April 2005

Colonies of Mussismilia hispida were collected in four south-eastern Brazil islands and fixed in formalin. Volume, living and basal areas of each coral head were measured. Animals found over, under and inside the corals were sorted, resulting in 9657 specimens belonging to more than 130 taxa. The underside of the colonies was occupied by bivalves and colonial forms of sponges, bryozoans and ascidians. On the living surface, barnacles and cryptochiridean crabs were detected. The endolithic animals included polychaetes, bivalves and sipunculid worms. Most of the animals collected were vagile microcrustaceans. In general, the corals in this ecosystem: (1) act as a nursery place for the community; (2) provide protection for many species also found in other habitats; (3) support a community mainly omnivorous and detritivorous; (4) are initially colonised randomly.
Effect of formulation on the quality of frozen bread dough
Authors: Salas-Mellado Myriam M. , Chang Yoon Kil
Published: April 2005

The main objective of this work was to determine the influence of formulation on the stability of bread dough during frozen storage. Bread doughs containing gluten and trehalose were submitted to mechanical freezing at -30° C and stored frozen for 45 days. Two types of instant yeast were tested: (A) for sweet doughs and (B) for savoury doughs. Specific volume was significantly affected by the yeast type, type A showing better effect than type B. Frozen storage of the doughs negatively affected the specific volume, crumb hardness and technological score of the bread. The addition of 10% trehalose had a beneficial effect on the cell survival rate for both the yeasts.
Varietal identification of coffee seeds by RAPD technique
Authors: Crochemore Maria Lúcia , Nunes Liliane Moreira , Andrade Giselly Aparecida , Molinari Hugo Bruno Correa , Vasconcellos Maria Elizabeth
Published: April 2005

This study aimed the identification of cultivars and/or lines of Coffea arabica of commercial interest, using PCR-RAPD markers. The DNA of ground seeds lots of 12 cultivars and/or lines were evaluated with five primers (Operon OPA 01, OPA 04, OPG 11, OPY 16, and OPX 09) were obtained from a selection of 56 primers. The electrophoretic profiles allowed distinction among eight cultivars and/or lines as well as heterogeneity between and within lots of IAPAR59.
A model for the study of skeletal anomalies in rat fetuses
Authors: Effting Cristiane , Paula Daniel Jesus de , Nunes Junior Guilhermino Pereira
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to validate a model of skeletal anomalies in rat fetuses by the administration of ketoconazole (80 mg/kg) to pregnant rats during organogenesis. Bones of the head, trunk and anterior and posterior limbs were examined for detection of anomalies. Statistical differences regarding the number of fetuses and postimplantation resorptions, and fetal and placental weight were significant. The frequency of skeletal anomalies in the head, trunk, and anterior and posterior limbs in the ketoconazole-treated group were also significant when compared to the control group. It could be concluded that the model suggested was valid for study of skeletal anomalies and abnormal bones development in rat fetuse, in spite of the loss of fetuses due to resorptions.
Nitrogen balance of starting barrow pigs fed on increasing lysine levels
Authors: Moreira Ivan , Fraga Alessandro Luis , Paiano Diovani , Oliveira Gisele Cristina de , Scapinello Cláudio , Martins Elias Nunes
Published: April 2005

The effects of increasing lysine levels on nitrogen balance of pigs fed on low protein diets were evaluated. Four treatments (diets) containing lysine levels (0.8, 1.0 1.2 and 1.4%) were applied to 12 starting (20.0 ± 1.8 kg) barrow pigs. Methionine, threonine and tryptophan were kept constant to the lysine ratio in all diets. Feces and urine were collected during a 5-day period. Nitrogen output in urine (NOU), total nitrogen output (TNO), nitrogen retention (NR), net protein utilization (NPU), biological value or feed protein (BVFP), urine urea nitrogen (UUN), and plasma urea nitrogen (PUN) were determined. PUN showed high negative correlations with BVFP (-0.84), NPU (-0.76), and NR (-0.78) and a positive correlation (0.79) to NOU. Lowest nitrogen excretion and the best use of diet protein were obtained with 1.1% total lysine level. PUN is efficient to indicate amino acid for pigs.
Evaluation of apple pomace based reconstituted feed in rats after solid state fermentation and ethanol recovery
Authors: Devrajan A. , Joshi Vinod K. , Gupta Kuldeep , Sheikher Chander , Lal Brij B.
Published: April 2005

To utilize apple pomace in an economical and effective way, a feed was developed by solid state fermentation (SSF) using sequential interactive co-culture of Candida utilis and Kloeckera. Removal of ethanol and drying of the left - over residue. Feeding trial was conducted in white albino rats before and after reconstitution of apple pomace feed in the choice and no choice study. Feeding of apple pomace feed in the rats before reconstitution indicated that neither in fermented nor in unfermented form it was acceptable. In the no choice study both in 100% fermented and unfermented apple pomace group feed intake decreased continuously resulting in death of rats apparently due to decreased digestibility owing to high fibre content. Further, fermented or unfermented apple pomace based feed had lower digestibility and efficiency of conversion than the standard rat feed. Compared to the standard feed group, growth rates in all the feed groups were negative. The results of choice study of different feeds corroborated with the no-choice study mentioned earlier. Incorporation of fermented apple pomace into standard rat feed in the ratio of 1:1 gave better acceptability and digestibility. Reconstituted feed with 10% jaggery, 2% groundnut oil, 0.01% mixed flavour and 1% salt was the most acceptable. The post-mortem examination of the rats that died during the feeding trial revealed generalized oedema, probably due to some hepatotoxin in the feed. The blood glucose level in the apple pomace feed group except that was reconstituted with jaggery, showed a general hypoglycemia, though falling in the range. The increased ALT and AST levels in the serum also suggest damage to the liver. The mortality rate, post-mortem examination of the rats that died during the feeding trial and blood biochemical analysis of rat serum suggest a more elaborative study for extended period of time.
Morphology and anatomy of the flower and anthesis of Metrodorea nigra St. Hill. (Rutaceae)
Authors: Souza Luiz A. de , Moscheta Ismar S. , Mourão Káthia S. M. , Rosa Sonia M. da
Published: April 2005

Studies on the morphology and anatomy of the flower and anthesis of Metrodorea nigra St. Hill. (Rutaceae) showed perfect flowers, which occurred in panicle. The peak of the flowering was August and September. The anthesis was diurnal and the species presented protandrous flowers. The green sepals and the red petals presented papillose epidermis with stomata and parenchymatic mesophyll. The tetrasporangiate anther presented a papillose epidermis too, endothecium cells with secondary parietal thickenings, two middle layers and binucleate tapetum. The only pistil presented an ovary wall with nectariferous tissue and a meristematic ventral epidermis, a solid style and an inconspicuous stigma. The ovules were anatropous, bitegmic and crassinucelate and presented an obturator of funicular and placentic origin. The nectaries occurred around the ovary as a disk-like structure and in its apex as a number of pillose protuberances.
Spatial partition of artificial structures by fish at the surroundings of the conservation unit - Parque Estadual da Ilha Anchieta, SP, Brazil
Authors: Cunningham Patricia Teresa Monteiro , Saul Andreia de Carvalho
Published: April 2005

The aim of this work was to study the spatial partition dynamics of fish at artificial structures. Holed structured concrete blocks were used to construct eight identical artificial structures and disposed between 3m-6m depths. Installation was made in two steps during 1996 (May/June and November/December) and daily observations were carried out during 30 consecutive days SCUBA diving. The artificial reef areas were used in discriminated ways by the fish community and was most probably influenced by several factor, mainly biotic. The results of the Krustal-Wallis test led to the refutation of the hypothesis that the artificial structure spaces were shared and randomly used by fish.
Studies on alkalophilic CGTase-producing bacteria and effect of starch on cyclodextrin-glycosyltransferase activity
Authors: Higuti Ilma Hiroko , Silva Priscila Anunciação da , Nascimento Aguinaldo José do
Published: April 2005

The production of beta- and gamma -CD by CGTase from Bacillus firmus was studied, in regard to the effect of the source and concentration of starch on the yield of CD and CGTase activity. A cyclic activity of accumulation and consumption of beta -CD and gamma -CD occurred during the bacterial growth. CGTase was more active when citrate buffer, pH 5.5 was used. No differences were found for production of gamma -CD with the use of commercial starch flour when compared with corn starch (p>0.05). The use of commercial starch flour resulted in decreased conversion of starch to beta-CD (all the 4 starch sources were statistically different, p<0.05). The best results for beta -CD production were obtained with the use of corn starch. The specific activity of CGTase was not affected by starch concentration, different source of starch nor by the presence of glutamic acid, a CD-complexing agent.
Mercury and organic carbon distribution in six lakes from the North of Rio de Janeiro State
Authors: Sousa Wanderson Primo de , Carvalho Carlos Eduardo Veiga de , Carvalho Claudia Calasans Veiga de , Suzuki Marina Satika
Published: April 2005

The objectives of the study was to evaluate the mercury contamination in sediments of six lagoons located in the north region of Rio de Janeiro State, trying to relate the Hg concentrations with factors that could influence it's mobility, such as organic carbon. The highest values observed in the superficial sediments in lakes like Campelo (349,6 µg.kg -1) suggested a recent Hg input into the system. The correlation Hg/Organic carbon was positive for most areas, indicating that the organic carbon was a significant parameter for Hg retention in this region. The obtained results suggested that the mercury used as fungicide in agriculture lands and in gold mining areas in the past were probably responsible for the contamination of this environment.
Photosynthetic rate of the aquatic macrophyte Egeria densa Planch. (Hydrocharitaceae) in two rivers from the Itanhaém River Basin in São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Pezzato Maura Maria , Camargo Antonio Fernando Monteiro
Published: April 2005

Egeria densa is a submerged aquatic macrophyte which, in Brazil, causes problems specially for electric energy generation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the photosynthetic rate of E. densa in two rivers (Aguapeú and Mambu) with different limnological features, both located in the Itanhaém River Basin. This species is abundant in both rivers without causing damages to their multiple uses. Photosynthetic rates were analysed in February, May, August and November 1998 and limnological variables of the water and sediment were also measured. The highest value of gross photosynthesis (GP) was detected in May (10.06 in Aguapeú and 6.10 mgO2/gDW/h in Mambu), when under-water photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) was also high (1,126.7 and 895.8 m mol/m/s, respectively). GP, total phosphorous, total CO2 and PAR were always higher in Aguapeú River.
Composition of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in freeze-dried chicken embryo eggs with different days of development
Authors: Campos Célia Maria Teixeira de , Hamad Antônio José Simões , Block Jane Mara , Padilha José Carlos Fiad , Ogliari Paulo José , Barreira-Arellano Daniel , Moreira Rosana Nogueira Cavalcanti
Published: April 2005

Fatty acids omega--3 and omega--6 composition and specially DHA were determined in freeze-dried chicken embryo eggs with pre-determined incubation periods. Fertile and embryo eggs presented palmitic (23.18 + 0.54%), stearic (7.70 + 0.28%), palmitoleic (3.00 + 0.19%), oleic (36.28 + 0.58%), linoleic (22.18 + 0.34%), linolenic (1.08 + 0.04%), arachidonic (2.04 + 0.03%), docosahexaenoic (0.91 + 0.03%), total omega-3 acids (2.26 + 0.10%) and total omega-6 acids (24.62 + 0.33%). There were no significant differences in total contents of omega-3 fatty acids (p=0.1226) between freeze-dried chicken embryo eggs with different incubation periods (3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 days) and fertile freeze-dried chicken eggs (day 0). However, there were significant differences in total medium contents of omega-6 fatty acids (p=0.0001). There was also a strong statistical evidence that quadratic model was related with expected values of DHA content (p= 0.0013).
Methane concentration in water column and in pore water of a coastal lagoon (Cabiúnas lagoon, Macaé, RJ, Brazil)
Authors: Fonseca André Luiz dos Santos , Minello Murilo , Marinho Claudio Cardoso , Esteves Francisco de Assis
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate methane concentration in water column and pore water at limnetic and littoral regions of a coastal lagoon. At the littoral region samples were taken from three monospecific macrophytes stands (Typha domingensis, Eleocharis interstincta and Potamogeton stenostachys). The methane concentration in the pore water at the littoral region was higher than the concentration found at the limnetic region in each fraction of the sediment. The higher methane concentration in the superficial fraction of the sediment (0-2 cm) was shown at the P. stenostachys stand (3.7 mM). It was the only significantly different (p<0.05) from the limnetic region. The pore water methane concentration increased with depth at the aquatic macrophytes stands. The methane concentration in the water column did not vary significantly among the sampling sites (p>0.05). It could be concluded that there was a high influence of aquatic macrophytes on the pore water methane concentration.
Alpha amylase from a fungal culture grown on oil cakes and its properties
Authors: Ramachandran Sumitra , Patel Anil K. , Nampoothiri Kesavan Madhavan , Chandran Sandhya , Szakacs George , Soccol Carlos Ricardo , Pandey Ashok
Published: April 2005

Solid-state fermentation was carried out for the production of alpha-amylase using Aspergillus oryzae. Different oil cakes such as coconut oil cake (COC) sesame oil cake (SOC), groundnut oil cake (GOC), palm kernel cake (PKC) and olive oil cake (OOC) were screened to be used as substrate for the enzyme production and also compared with wheat bran (WB). GOC was found to be the best producer of the enzyme among these. Combination of WB and GOC (1:1) resulted higher enzyme titres than the individual substrates. Maximum amount of enzyme (9196 U/gds) was obtained when SSF was carried out using WB + GOC, having initial moisture of 64% and supplemented with lactose and ammonium nitrate (1% each) at 30ºC for 72h using 2 mL spore suspension (6x10(7)spores/ml). Partial purification of the enzyme using ammonium sulphate fractionation resulted in 2.4-fold increase in the activity. The enzyme showed molecular weight of 68 KDa by SDS-PAGE. Except Mn, all other metal ions such as Ca, K, Na, Mg were found to be inhibitory for the enzyme activity. The enzyme was optimally active at 50(0)C and pH 5.0.
Temporal and spatial variation on heavy metal concentrations in the bivalve Perna perna (LINNAEUS, 1758) on the northern coast of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Alexandre Gomes , Machado André Luís dos Santos , Zalmon Ilana Rosental
Published: April 2005

Heavy metal (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) concentrations were studied in Perna perna from three beaches (Barra do Furado, Buena and Ponta do Retiro) on the northern coast of Rio de Janeiro State by ICP-AES. The average concentration was 0.3 ± 0.04 (Cd); 1.9 ± 0.6 (Cr); 6.1 ± 0.7 (Cu); 1,130 ± 113 (Fe); 22 ± 3.2 (Mn); 9.3 ± 4.6 (Ni); 0.4 ± 0.2 (Pb); 44 ± 5.8 (Zn) µg.g-1 dry weight. There were no significant difference for almost all the studied metals in relation to sex. Although, significant spatial variations (p < 0.05) occurred for Cr, Pb and Ni with higher values for Barra do Furado. Temporal variations were significant (p < 0.05) at the three beaches, however, no trends of accumulation were observed. The metal concentrations were similar to areas under low pollution impact, except for Fe, which was probably due to the local substrates enriched in iron oxides.
Microhabitat preferences of six Drosera (Droseraceae) from Tibagi river basin, Paraná state, Brazil
Authors: Saridakis Dennis Panayotis , Torezan José Marcelo Domingues , Andrade Galdino
Published: April 2005

We studied the microhabitats and the climatic requirements of six Drosera taxa, which occur in the subtropical grasslands of the Tibagi river basin. They are annual,or most communly, perennial herbs known as carnivorous plants, whose leaves are transformed into traps for the capture and digestion of small insects as an adaptation for supplying nutricional deficiencies. They usually occur in distrophic substrata. In order to contribute to conservation plans for the species of the genus, threatened by the conversion of the natural grasslands into pastures, we tried to define their preferential habitats and climatic requirements. We verified that the variables of microhabitat and altitude presented significant correlation at 5% probability level, while the variables in annual average relative humidity, annual average temperature and type of substratum types did not show significant correlation.