Inhibition of Protein and Lipid Oxidation in Ready-to-Eat Chicken Patties by a Spondias mombin L. Bagasse Phenolic-Rich Extract.

This study evaluated the impact of yellow mombin (Spondias mombin L.) bagasse extract (YMBE) on the color degradation, protein and lipid oxidation in ready-to-eat chicken patties during 15 days of refrigerated storage. Two formulations of chicken patties were developed: chicken patties control - PCON (without the antioxidant extract) and chicken patties with yellow mombin extract - PYME (with the antioxidant extract). The extract was effective in maintaining red color and inhibiting myoglobin degradation in the evaluated samples. The generation of lipid oxidation compounds during storage of the treated samples was delayed by 92.37% for peroxide index, 89.89% for conjugated dienes, 74.29% for tiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) and 92.55% for ρ-anisidine compared to the control samples. Moreover, the addition of YMBE inhibited the formation of carbonyl compounds during cold storage compared to the control samples. Extracts obtained from the yellow mombin bagasse act as a good natural antioxidant for ready-to-eat chicken patties inhibiting protein and lipid oxidative damage during cold storage, being a potential preservative to replace synthetic antioxidants in meat products.

Voltammetric sensor based on cobalt-poly(methionine)-modified glassy carbon electrode for determination of estriol hormone in pharmaceuticals and urine.

A voltammetric sensor based on the electropolymerization of cobalt-poly(methionine) (Co-poly(Met)) on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was developed and applied for the determination of estriol by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) for the first time. The electrochemical properties of the Co-poly(Met)/GCE were analysed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize the polymers on the GCE surface. The deposition of the Co-poly(Met) film on the GCE surface enhanced the sensor electronic transfer. CV studies revealed that estriol exhibits an irreversible oxidation peak at +0.58 V for the Co-poly(Met)/GCE (vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode) in 0.10 mol/L Britton-Robinson buffer solution (pH = 7.0). Different voltammetric scan rates (10-200 mV/s) suggested that the estriol oxidation on the Co-poly(Met)/GCE surface is controlled by adsorption and diffusion processes. Based on the optimized DPV conditions, the linear responses for estriol quantification were from 0.596 µmol/L to 4.76 µmol/L (R2 = 0.996) and from 5.66 µmol/L to 9.90 µmol/L (R2 = 0.994) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.0340 µmol/L and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.113 µmol/L. The DPV-Co-poly(Met)/GCE method provided good intra-day and inter-day repeatability with RSD values lower than 5%. Also, no interference of real sample matrices was observed on the estriol voltammetric response, making the DPV-Co-poly(Met)/GCE highly selective for estriol. The accuracy test showed that the estriol recovery was in the ranges 96.7%-103% and 98.7%-102% for pharmaceutical tablets and human urine, respectively. The estriol quantification in pharmaceutical tablets performed by the Co-poly(Met)/GCE-assisted DPV method was comparable to the official analytical protocols.

Potassium Channel Activation Is Involved in the Cardiovascular Effects Induced by Freeze Dried Syzygium jambolanum (Lam.) DC Fruit Juice.

This work aimed to explore the cardiovascular effects induced by freeze-dried juice from Syzygium jambolanum (Lam.) DC fruits (JSJ). JSJ presented high polyphenol content and steroids. HPLC analysis revealed that 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic and caffeic acid were present in higher amounts in the JSJ extract. In rat, JSJ induces hypotension and vasodilatation in mesenteric arteries, with or without vascular endothelium. JSJ-mediated vasodilation response against contractions induced with KCl (60 mM) depolarizing solution was significantly lower than the responses induced by JSJ when evaluated against phenylephrine-induced contractions. To investigate the involvement of potassium channels we used Tyrode's solution with KCl (20 mM) or tetraethylammonium (1.0, 3.0, or 5.0 mM). In these conditions JSJ-induced effects were significantly attenuated. To investigate the potassium channel subtypes involved in the response, we used 4-aminopyridine, glibenclamide, BaCl2, and iberiotoxin. In the presence (simultaneous) of different potassium channel blockers we observed a significant attenuation of JSJ-induced effect. Inhibition was also observed when using BaCl2, glibenclamide, or 4-aminopyridine, separately. However, incubation with iberiotoxin did not promote changes in either maximum effect, or potency. We also evidenced a discrete participation of CaV channels in the JSJ-induced vasorelaxant effect. In addition, patch-clamp studies demonstrated that JSJ could activate potassium channels. In conclusion, JSJ promotes hypotension and vasorelaxation in rats, involving, at least, the activation of potassium channels.

Electrooxidation of sulfanilamide and its voltammetric determination in pharmaceutical formulation, human urine and serum on glassy carbon electrode.

For the first time, sulfanilamide (SFD) was determined in otologic solution, human urine and serum by electroanalytical techniques on glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The cyclic voltammetry (CV) experiments showed an irreversible oxidation peak at +1.06 V in 0.1 mol/L BRBS (pH = 2.0) at 50 mV/s. Different voltammetric scan rates (from 10 to 250 mV/s) suggested that the oxidation of SFD on the GCE was a diffusion-controlled process. Square-wave voltammetry (SWV) method under optimized conditions showed a linear response to SFD from 5.0 to 74.7 µmol/L (R = 0.999) with detection and quantification limits of 0.92 and 3.10 µmol/L, respectively. The developed SWV method showed better results for detection limit and linear range than the chronoamperometry method. It has been successfully applied to determine SFD concentration in pharmaceutical formulation, human urine and serum samples with recovery close to 100%.

Genetic diversity in a Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz population assessed by RAPD molecular markers.

Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz is an endemic Caatinga (Brazilian savannah biome) species that has been exploited for different purposes, although information is necessary about still existing natural populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity among 20 P. pyramidalis individuals occurring in a population localized in the Caatinga biome of Paraíba State, aiming at seed collection, using RAPD markers. For the DNA extraction, young shoots of the individuals were used, and amplification was carried out using 20 primers. The obtained markers were converted to a binary matrix, from which a genetic dissimilarity matrix was built using the arithmetic complement of Jaccard's coefficient, and the dendrogram was built by the UPGMA analysis. No amplified fragment was monomorphic, resulting in 100% polymorphism of the analyzed population. The mean genetic diversity among the matrices was 63.28%, ranging from 30.9 to 97.7%. Individuals 09 and 17 showed relevant genetic proximity, and thus planting their seedlings at close sites would not be indicated. The population evaluated in this study showed high genetic diversity, originating twelve groups from the UPGMA hierarchical cluster analysis. Based on the results, individuals 09 and 17 can provide plant material for the evaluation of the physiological performance of P. pyramidalis seeds, and the set of individuals of this population has a high genetic diversity that characterizes them as adequate matrices for projects of restoration and conservation of the seed species.

Antioxidant and vasorelaxant activities induced by northeastern Brazilian fermented grape skins.

BACKGROUND: In northeastern Brazil, grape pomace has become a potential alternative byproduct because of the recover phenolic compounds from the vinification process. Comparative analyses were performed between lyophilized extract of grape skins from pomace, described as fermented (FGS), and fresh, unfermented (UGS) grape skins to show the relevant brand's composition upon the first maceration in winemaking. METHODS: The use of in vitro testing such as Folin-Ciocalteu's, DPPH free radical scavenger and HPLC methods were performed to evidence antioxidant effect and phenolic compounds. Additionally, vascular reactivity studies were performed in third-order branches of rat superior mesenteric arteries, which were obtained and placed in organ baths containing Krebs-Henseleit solution, maintained at 37 °C, gassed with a mixture of 95% O2 and 5% CO2, and maintained at pH 7.4. The in situ formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated in small mesenteric rings using oxidative fluorescent dihydroethidium dye. RESULTS: We found higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity in FGS when compared to UGS. HPLC analyses identified a significant number of phenolic compounds with antioxidant potential in both samples. The vasorelaxant effect induced by FGS was more potent than that induced by UGS, and the activity was attenuated after removal of vascular endothelium or by blockade of endothelium-derived relaxing factors, such as NO and EDHF. CONCLUSIONS: The FGS extract may be a great source of natural polyphenol products with potent antioxidant effects and endothelium-dependent vasodilatory actions involving NO and EDHF pathways.

Genetic divergence of physiological-quality traits of seeds in a population of peppers.

Brazil has a great diversity of Capsicum peppers that can be used in breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate genetic variation in traits related to the physiological quality of seeds of Capsicum annuum L. in a segregating F2 population and its parents. A total of 250 seeds produced by selfing in the F1 generation resulting from crosses between UFPB 77.3 and UFPB 76 were used, with 100 seeds of both parents used as additional controls, totaling 252 genotypes. The seeds were germinated in gerboxes containing substrate blotting paper moistened with distilled water. Germination and the following vigor tests were evaluated: first count, germination velocity index, and root and shoot lengths. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, and means were compared by Scott and Knott's method at 1% probability. Tocher's clustering based on Mahalanobis distance and canonical variable analysis with graphic dispersion of genotypes were performed, and genetic parameters were estimated. All variables were found to be significant by the F test (P ≤ 0.01) and showed high heritability and a CVg/CVe ratio higher than 1.0, indicating genetic differences among genotypes. Parents (genotypes 1 and 2) formed distinct groups in all clustering methods. Genotypes 3, 104, 153, and 232 were found to be the most divergent according to Tocher's clustering method, and this was mainly due to early germination, which was observed on day 14, and would therefore be selected. Understanding the phenotypic variability among these 252 genotypes will serve as a basis for continuing the breeding program within this family.

Estudo farmacobotânico de partes aéreas vegetativas de aroeira-vermelha (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Anacardiaceae) / Pharmacobotanical study of the aerial parts of Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi)

Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae), conhecida como aroeira-vermelha é uma espécie nativa do Brasil, perenifólia e pioneira, sendo muito utilizada para combater diversas doenças, pois apresenta, entre outras, propriedades anti-inflamatórias e cicatrizantes. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar um estudo morfoanatômico do caule e da folha de S. terebinthifolius, descrevendo a organização dos tecidos e suas possíveis variações. As análises macro e microscópicas foram realizadas com material selecionado de partes vegetativas de um espécime localizado na cidade de Campina Grande - PB. A aroeira-vermelha é um vegetal arbóreo e dióico, que apresenta caule cilíndrico e simpodial, com casca rugosa e estriada. A folha é perene, alterna, coriácea e composta. As análises microscópicas evidenciaram epiderme caulinar e foliar uniestratificadas, exceto na face adaxial da folha, que é bisseriada. No caule e no pecíolo são visualizados muitos tricomas tectores unicelulares, curtos, cônicos e agudos no ápice. Encontram-se canais secretores arredondados e bem desenvolvidos na região do floema em todos os órgãos estudados, bem como cutícula revestindo as células epidérmicas e grande quantidade de drusas de oxalato de cálcio. Os feixes vasculares são circundados por células esclerenquimáticas e apresentam o floema seguido por xilema helicoidal bem desenvolvido. No caule, pecíolo e nervura central da folha, o xilema é interno e o floema, externo. A aroeira-vermelha apresenta alguns aspectos estruturais característicos de plantas xerófilas, como camada múltipla da epiderme da face adaxial foliar, que protegem o mesofilo de excessiva dessecação; presença de cutícula espessa e grande quantidade de pêlos e de estômatos; além de sistema vascular bem desenvolvido, com abundância de esclerênquima, dando sustentação ao feixe.

Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae), popularly known as Brazilian pepper, is an evergreen, pioneer and indigenous plant from Brazil, and it is used to combat various diseases, as it presents anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The aim of this research was to study the morpho-anatomical features of the stem and leaf of S. terebinthifolius, describing the organization of the tissues and their variations. The macroscopic and microscopic analyses were performed with material selected from vegetative parts of a specimen collected in the city of Campina Grande - state of Paraíba, Brazil. The Brazilian pepper is a dioecious plant with cylindrical and sympodial stem and rough and striated bark. The leaves are evergreen, alternate, leathery and compound. The microscopic analysis showed uniseriate epidermis in the stem and leaf, except in the adaxial leaf, which is biseriate. In the stem and petiole, many unicellular, short, conical tector trichomes with acute apex are observed. In the phloem of all studied organs, we found rounded and well-developed secretory ducts, as well as cuticle covering the epidermal cells and a large amount of calcium oxalate druses. The vascular bundles are surrounded by sclerenchyma cells and present phloem followed by well-developed spiral xylem. In the stem, petiole and leaf's central vein, the xylem is internal and the phloem is external. The Brazilian pepper has some structural features characteristic of xerophilous plants, such as multiple layers of the epidermis in adaxial leaf, which protects the mesophyll from excessive drying, thick cuticle and a large quantity of hairs and stomata, well-developed vascular system with plenty of sclerenchyma, giving support to the bundle.

Intraspecific and interspecific polyploidy of Brazilian species of the genus Inga (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae).

We investigated the karyotypes of 13 species of six sections of the genus Inga (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) from Brazil. We used conventional Giemsa staining to identify numerical chromosomal variations and looked for karyotypic evolutionary patterns. The karyotypes generally had small chromosomes, varying from metacentric to submetacentric, with a basic number x=13. Nine of the species showed 2n=2x=26 (I. thibaudiana, I. cayennensis, I. ingoides, I. edulis, I. vera, I. subnuda, I. striata, I. bollandii, and Inga sp), while 2n=4x=52 was seen in a population of Inga cylindrical and of I. capitata, and in five populations of I. laurina. Additionally, 2n=8x=104 was observed in a population of I. cayennensis. Eight of these counts were new, while the counts of 2n=52 for I. laurina and 2n=26 for I. marginata, I. vera, I. subnuda, and I. edulis confirmed previous studies. We did not find cytological stability among the sections studied, with occurrence of significant intra- and inter-specific numerical variations. We conclude that polyploidy has played a significant role in karyotypic evolution in this group and that it occurred independently in several sections of the genus.

Armazenamento de sementes de Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All. em diferentes embalagens e ambientes / Storage of Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All. seeds in different packaging and environments

Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All. é uma espécie pertencente à família Anacardiaceae, cuja planta pode ser utilizada como medicinal, na indústria de curtimento de couro, na arborização de ruas e praças, produzindo madeira de grande resistência mecânica. Diante disso, o objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar as melhores condições e períodos de armazenamento para conservação da viabilidade e vigor das sementes de M. urundeuva. As embalagens utilizadas para acondicionamento das sementes foram sacos de papel Kraft, algodão e de polietileno transparente, bem como folhas de papel alumínio. Em seguida as sementes foram armazenadas em ambiente natural de laboratório (25 ± 2ºC), freezer (-20 ± 2ºC), câmara fria (8 ± 2ºC) e geladeira (6 ± 2ºC). Em intervalos pré-determinados (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210 e 240 dias) avaliou-se o teor de água das sementes, porcentagem de emergência, índice de velocidade de emergência, comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. No ambiente de laboratório não houve conservação do vigor das sementes de M. urundeuva. A melhor condição para conservação de sementes de M. urundeuva foi obtida com o acondicionamento em sacos de papel Kraft, pano de algodão, plástico ou papel alumínio e manutenção em geladeira ou freezer, podendo também ser conservadas embaladas em papel ou alumínio, quando estocadas em câmara fria, por 240 dias. Alteração no vigor de sementes dessa espécie é primeiramente identificada pela redução da velocidade de emergência.

Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All. is a species belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, which can be utilized as a medicinal plant, or in the leather tanning industry, urban afforestation, and the production of wood with great mechanic resistance. The objective of this study was to determine the best conditions and storage periods for preserving the viability and vigor of M. urundeuva. Seeds conditioned in bags of Kraft paper, cotton, polyethylene or aluminum foil of mesh polyethylene were stored at room temperature (25 ± 2ºC), freezer (-20 ± 2ºC), cold (8 ± 2ºC) and refrigerator (6 ± 2ºC). At 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210 and 240 days they were evaluated for seed moisture content, percentage of emergence, emergence speed index (ESI), seedling length and seedling dry matter. In the natural environment of the laboratory, there was no conservation of seed vigor M. urundeuva. The best M. urundeuva seed conservation condition was obtained with bags of Kraft paper, cotton, polyethylene or aluminum foil of mesh polyethylene in the refrigerator or freezer. M. urundeuva seeds can also be kept in paper bags or aluminum foil when stored in a refrigerated chamber, for 240 days. Seed vigor change in this species is initially identified by decrease in the speed emergence.

Qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de erva-doce (Foeniculum vulgare Mill. ) armazenadas / Physiological and sanitary quality of fennel seeds stored

A incidência de fungos em sementes interfere negativamente o seu potencial fisiológico, podendo ter início no campo, durante o armazenamento ou na pós-colheita. Desta forma o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de erva-doce armazenadas em diferentes embalagens. O trabalho foi realizado no Laboratório de análise de sementes da UFPB, em Areia-PB. As sementes foram colhidas em plantas tratadas e não tratadas com inseticida Actara, beneficiadas e acondicionadas nas embalagens papel alumínio, saco plástico e vidro. Em seguida, armazenadas em câmara fria durante 315 dias. Inicialmente e a cada 45 dias foram realizados as seguintes determinações e testes: teor de água, emergência de plântulas, primeira contagem de emergência, índice de velocidade de emergência, comprimento e massa seca das plântulas e sanidade das sementes pelo método "blotter-test". Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, os tratamentos foram distribuídos em fatorial 2 x 3 x 8 (com e sem inseticida, 3 embalagens e 8 períodos de avaliação). Os resultados indicam que a qualidade fisiológica das sementes de erva-doce foi principalmente afetada pelo fungo Alternaria sp., ocorrendo a manutenção da viabilidade das sementes por aproximadamente 95 dias na embalagem de saco plástico; a aplicação do inseticida Actara mantém a qualidade fisiológica das sementes de Foeniculum vulgare no armazenamento.

The fungi incidence in seeds affect negatively their physiological potential may begin in the field, during storage or in post-harvest. The objective was to evaluate the sanitary quality of fennel seeds stored in packagings differents. The study was conducted in laboratory analysis of seeds of UFPB, in Areia-PB. Seeds were harvested in experimental field with plants treated and untreated with insecticide Actara, processed and packed in aluminum foil, plastic bag and glass and stored in cold chamber during 315 days. Initially and every 45 days were performed the following tests and determinations: water content, seedling emergence, first count of emergency, emergency speed index, length and seedling dry mass and seed health by the "blotter-test." We used a completely randomized design with four replications, the treatments were distributed in a factorial 2 x 3 x 8. The results indicated that the physiological quality of fennel seeds was negatively affected by the fungus Alternaria sp., occurring at maintaining the viability of seeds for about 95 days in the plastic bag packaging; the application of the insecticide Actara keeps the physiological quality of seeds of Foeniculum vulgare in storage.

Aspectos anatômicos de plântulas Foeniculum vulgare Mill / Anatomical aspects of the Foeniculum vulgare Mill. seedling

A erva-doce, Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Apiaceae), é uma erva entouceirada, aromática que apresenta propriedades condimentares e medicinais; tem origem Européia e é amplamente cultivada em todo o Brasil. Devido à deficiência de informações relativas à organização estrutural de plântulas de espécies medicinais, o presente estudo teve como objetivo fornecer informações sobre a anatomia e o desenvolvimento de plântulas de F. vulgare. As sementes de erva-doce foram semeadas em areia e mantidas em casa de vegetação por 25 dias, sendo realizadas regas diárias. Foram selecionadas plântulas normais e de padrão uniforme, que tiveram raiz, zona de transição, caule, cotilédones e primeiras folhas seccionados à mão livre. Este material foi corado e montado em lâminas com glicerina para observação em microscópio. Em todos os órgãos da plântula de erva-doce a epiderme é unisseriada, cuticularizada e com estômatos; sendo que as duas últimas estruturas não são encontradas na raiz, porém esta apresenta pêlos unicelulares e cônicos. Os cotilédones e as folhas apresentam funções fotossintéticas e nutricionais, indicadas pela presença de grande quantidade de estômatos, cloroplastos e amido. A caracterização anatômica de plântulas de F. vulgare auxilia na identificação da espécie e no conhecimento da organização celular, fornecendo informações que auxiliam em estudos fisiológicos, taxonômicos e ecológicos.

Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Apiaceae), is a forming clumps herb and presents aromatic, medicinal and condimental properties. It has European origin and is widely cultivated and used in Brazil. Due to lack of information concerning the structural organization of seedlings of medicinal species, this study aimed to provide information about the anatomy and development of F. vulgare seedlings. The seeds fennel was sowed in sand and maintained in greenhouse for 25 days, with daily waterings. Were selected normal seedlings and with patterns uniforms, for freehand seccion of root, transition zone, stem, cotyledons and first leaves. This material was stained and mounted on slides with glycerol for observation under microscope. In all the parts of seedling fennel the epidermis is uniseriate, with a cuticle and stomata, and the two latter structures are not found in the root, but has tapered hairs unicellular. The cotyledons and the leaves have photosynthetic and nutrition functions, as indicated by the presence of large numbers of stomata, chloroplast and starch. The anatomical characterization of the F. vulgare seedling aids in specie identification and knowledge of cellular organization, providing information that assists in physiological, taxonomic and ecological studies.

Efeito de sistemas de consórcio e inseticida na formação dos estômatos em plântulas de erva-doce (Foeniculum vulgare Mill. ) / Effects of intercropping systems and insecticide in formation of stomata in fennel seedlings

Foeniculum vulgare Mill., pertencente à família Apiacea, é conhecida como erva-doce e apresenta grande importância medicinal e comercial, tanto no Brasil como em vários outros países. Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa, estudar o desenvolvimento dos estômatos em plântulas de F. vulgare oriundas de sementes produzidas em sistemas de consórcio erva-doce X algodão e com aplicação do inseticida monocrotofós. A erva-doce foi cultivada em consórcio com algodão colorido cultivar BRS Safira, sendo utilizados os seguintes tratamentos: 1A2E, uma fileira de algodão e duas de erva-doce; 2A1E, duas fileiras de algodão e uma de erva-doce; ES, erva-doce solteira; onde foram distribuídos com e sem aplicação de inseticida, totalizando seis tratamentos. As sementes colhidas foram semeadas em areia e mantidas em casa de vegetação por 25 dias. Partes das plântulas (zona de transição, caule, cotilédones e folhas) foram seccionadas à mão livre, coradas e montadas em lâminas com glicerina para observação em microscópio. Foram avaliadas as seguintes características: número de estômatos, diâmetro polar e equatorial dos estômatos e número de cloroplastos nas células-guarda. Os dados foram analisados em delineamento inteiramente casualizado e distribuídos em arranjo fatorial 3X2; sendo realizado teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Na zona de transição e no caule observou-se aumento do número e do diâmetro polar dos estômatos quando foram utilizados sistemas de consórcio. Nos cotilédones, a erva-doce solteira proporcionou maior número de estômatos, porém com menor diâmetro e com menor quantidade de cloroplastos. Já na folha, os consórcios influenciaram positivamente o número de estômatos e de cloroplastos. De forma geral, os sistemas de consórcio e o inseticida influenciaram positivamente o desenvolvimento dos estômatos das plântulas de erva-doce.

Foeniculum vulgare Mill., belonging to the family Apiaceae, is known as fennel and has great medicinal and commercial importance, both in Brazil and in several other countries. The objective of this research was to study the development of stomata of F. vulgare seedlings grown from seeds produced in intercropping systems fennel and cotton, with application of insecticide monocrotophos. The fennel was grown in association with colored cotton BRS Safira, with the following treatments: 1A2E, one rows of cotton and two fennel; 2A1E, two rows of cotton and one fennel; ES, fennel single; were distributed with and without application of insecticide, total six treatments. The seeds were sown in sand and kept in a greenhouse for 25 days. Parts of seedlings (transition zone, stem, cotyledons and leaves) were cut freehand, stained and mounted on slides with glycerol for observation under microscope. Were evaluated the following characteristics: stomata number, polar and equatorial diameter of the stomata and chloroplasts number in guard cells. The data were analyzed in completely randomized and distributed in factorial 3x2, being conducted Tukey test at 5% probability. The transition zone and stem showed an increase of the stomata number and polar diameter the when consortium systems were used. In cotyledons, fennel single provided the highest stomata number, but with smaller diameter and fewer chloroplasts. In leaf, the consortia have positively influenced the stomata and chloroplasts number. In general, the intercropping systems and insecticide positively influenced the development of stomata in fennel plants.

Conservação e fisiologia pós-colheita de folhas de Capuchinha (Tropaeolum majus L. ) / Conservation and postharvest physiology of leaves Capuchin (Tropaeolum majus L. )

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a vida útil pós-colheita de folhas de Capuchinha (Tropaeolum majus L.) embaladas com filme PVC de baixa densidade e proteínas nas concentrações de 1, 3 e 5 por cento. O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica do Centro de Ciências Agrárias (CCA) da Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB) Areia - PB. As folhas de Capuchinha colhidas no CCA foram levadas imediatamente ao Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica, para pré-seleção, desinfestação em água clorada contendo 100mg.L-1 de cloro ativo, e seca à temperatura ambiente. Após o controle fitossanitário, as folhas foram submetidas aos seguintes tratamentos: solução de proteína nas concentrações de 1, 3 e 5 por cento, filme PVC de baixa densidade e a testemunha sem recobrimento. As folhas foram armazenadas durante cinco dias em temperatura média de 26 - 29ºC e umidade relativa média de 59,5 - 71,5 por cento e outra parte foi armazenada em câmara fria com temperatura média de 12 ± 0,5 ºC e umidade relativa média de 95 ± 3 por cento. Durante o período de armazenamento as folhas foram avaliadas quanto à perda de massa fresca, determinação de ácido ascórbico, sólidos solúveis e acidez titulável. O armazenamento durante quatro dias sob refrigeração a temperatura média de 12 ± 0,5ºC associada ao recobrimento com filme PVC mostrou melhores resultados na conservação da vida útil pós-colheita das folhas de Capuchinha.

This study aimed to evaluate the shelf-life of Capuchin sheets (Tropaeolum majus L.) packed with plastic wrap and low density proteins at concentrations of 1, 3 and 5 percent. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica and the Centro de Ciências Agrárias (CCA) of the Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB) Areia - PB. Capuchin leaves harvested in the CCA were taken immediately to the Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica, for pre-screening, disinfection in chlorinated water containing 100mg.L-1 of active chlorine, and dried at room temperature. After spraying, the leaves were treated as follows: protein solution at concentrations of 1, 3 and 5 percent, low density plastic wrap and uncoated witness. The leaves were stored for five days in average temperature from 26 to 29ºC and relative humidity from 59.5 to 71.5 percent and another part was stored in cold with average temperature of 12 ± 0.5ºC and relative humidity of 95 ± 3 percent. During the storage period the leaves were evaluated for weight loss, determination of ascorbic acid, soluble solids and titratable acidity. Storage for four days under refrigeration at an average temperature of 12 ± 0.5ºC associated with PVC film coating showed better results in the conservation of shelf-life of Capuchin sheets.

Word finding difficulty as a post-polio sequelae.

OBJECTIVE: Seventy-nine percent of respondents to the 1990 National Post-Polio Survey reported difficulty "thinking of words I want to say," with 37% reporting frequent, moderate-to-severe word finding difficulty. This study was undertaken to objectively document polio survivors' word finding difficulty and to identify its relationship to fatigue, neuropsychologic processes requiring cortical activation, and a peripheral marker for brain dopamine secretion. DESIGN: In this study, 33 polio survivors were administered the Post-Polio Fatigue Questionnaire, Animal Naming and FAS Tests, and tests of attention and information processing speed. Plasma prolactin was also measured as a marker for brain dopamine secretion. RESULTS: Subjects reporting high fatigue severity and word finding difficulty had clinically abnormal or significantly lower Animal Naming Test scores compared with subjects with low symptom severity. Impaired performance on the most difficult tests of attention and information processing speed were also associated with lower scores on the word finding tests. A significant negative correlation between Animal Naming Test scores and plasma prolactin suggests that a decrement in brain dopamine secretion is related to reduced animal naming ability. CONCLUSIONS: These data support the hypothesis that decreased dopamine secretion, possibly secondary to poliovirus damage to the basal ganglia, may underlie not only fatigue and impaired attention but also word finding difficulty in polio survivors.

Paralytic vs. "nonparalytic" polio: distinction without a difference?

Nonparalytic polio (NPP) is commonly thought to be synonymous with "abortive polio," in which the poliovirus neither entered the central nervous system nor damaged neurons. Described are two epidemic illness-"The Summer Grippe" and Iceland disease-apparently caused by a low virulence but neuropathic type 2 poliovirus. Studies show that neuronal lesions in the brain and spinal cord and muscle weakness were common in NPP, and epidemiologic studies document late-onset weakness and fatigue in 14% to 42% of NPP survivors. These findings indicate that clinicians should not require a history of paralytic polio, electromyographic evidence of denervation, and new muscle weakness for the diagnosis of "Postpolio Syndrome" but should be aware that NPP, and possibly even poliovirus-induced "minor illnesses," can be associated with acute central nervous system damage and late-onset muscle weakness and fatigue.

Parallels between post-polio fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome: a common pathophysiology?

Fatigue is the most commonly reported and most debilitating of post-polio sequelae affecting the >1.8 million North American polio survivors. Post-polio fatigue is characterized by subjective reports of difficulty with attention, cognition, and maintaining wakefulness. These symptoms resemble those reported in nearly 2 dozen outbreaks of post-viral fatigue syndromes (PVFS) that have recurred during this century and that are related clinically, historically, anatomically, or physiologically to poliovirus infections. This article reviews recent studies that relate the symptoms of post-polio fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to clinically significant deficits on neuropsychologic tests of attention, histopathologic and neuroradiologic evidence of brain lesions, impaired activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, increased prolactin secretion, and electroencephalogram (EEG) slow-wave activity. A possible common pathophysiology for post-polio fatigue and CFS, based on the Brain Fatigue Generator Model of PVFS, and a possible pharmacotherapy for PVFS based on replacement of depleted brain dopamine, will be described.

Abnormal movements in sleep as a post-polio sequelae.

Nearly two-thirds of polio survivors report abnormal movements in sleep, with 52% reporting that their sleep is disturbed by these movements. Sleep studies were performed in seven polio survivors to document objectively abnormal movements in sleep. Two patients demonstrated generalized random myoclonus, with brief contractions and even ballistic movements of the arms and legs, slow repeated grasping movements of the hands, slow flexion of the arms, and contraction of the shoulder and pectoral muscles. Two other patients demonstrated periodic movements in sleep with muscle contractions and ballistic movements of the legs, two had periodic movements in sleep plus restless legs syndrome, and one had sleep starts involving only contraction of the arm muscles. Abnormal movements in sleep occurred in Stage II sleep in all patients, in Stage I in some patients, and could significantly disturb sleep architecture even though patients were totally unaware of muscle contractions. Poliovirus-induced damage to the spinal cord and brain is presented as a possible cause of abnormal movements in sleep. The diagnosis of post-polio fatigue, evaluation of abnormal movements in sleep, and management of abnormal movements in sleep using benzodiazepines or dopamimetic agents are described.

Compliance with treatment for postpolio sequelae: effect of type A behavior, self-concept, and loneliness.

To examine the effect of Type A behavior, self-concept, and loneliness on completion of and compliance with a postpolio sequelae treatment program, all 204 individuals who had been evaluated by the Postpolio Service were mailed the Postpolio Fatigue Questionnaire, the revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale. Patients were also asked to rate the frequency of assistive device use, their engaging in self-care activities, and requesting physical assistance from others; they had previously been administered the brief Type A Scale. Of the 46 respondents, 63% had completed the Postpolio Sequelae treatment program (completers), and 37% had either been discharged for noncompliance or refused treatment (noncompleters). Wheelchair use was significantly positively correlated with age at the time of contracting polio, number of limbs affected by polio, the Loneliness score, and months since leaving the treatment program, but significantly negatively correlated with Social Self and Family Self scores on the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale. Family Self score was significantly negatively correlated with crutch use but significantly positively correlated with asking co-workers for assistance. The frequency of taking two 15-minute breaks each day was significantly negatively correlated with a Type A score. Noncompleters reported a 61% increase in muscle weakness compared with a 1% decrease for completers. These results indicate that Type A behavior must be decreased so polio survivors complete and comply with a postpolio sequelae treatment program, be able to make necessary lifestyle changes, and possibly feel less lonely. Friends and family members must help polio survivors to accept lifestyle changes and support new assistive device use if patients are to feel valuable within their families and society and treat their postpolio sequelae.