Production of Gibberellic Acid by Solid-State Fermentation Using Wastes from Rice Processing and Brewing Industry.

Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a natural hormone present in some plants used in agricultural formulations as a growth regulator. Currently, its production on an industrial scale is performed by submerged fermentation using the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi, which is associated with low yields, leaving the purification stages with high costs. An alternative is solid-state fermentation (SSF), which makes it possible to obtain higher concentrations of product using low-cost substrates, such as agroindustrial by-products. This research investigated the use of raw rice bran (RRB) and barley malt residue (BMR) as substrates for GA3 production by the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. Through two statistical designs, the effect of moisture (50 to 70 wt.%) and medium composition (RRB content between 30 and 70 wt.% to a mass ratio between RRB and BMR) was first evaluated. Using the best conditions previously obtained, the effect of adding glucose (carbon source, between 0 and 80 g·L-1) and ammonium nitrate-NH4NO3-(nitrogen source, between 0 and 5 g·L-1) on GA3 productivity was analyzed. The best yield was obtained using 30 wt.% RRB and 70 wt.% BMR for a medium with 70 wt.% of moisture after 7 days of process. It was also found that higher concentrations of NH4NO3 favor the GA3 formation for intermediate values of glucose content (40 g·L-1). Finally, a kinetic investigation showed an increasing behavior in the GA3 production (10.1 g·kg of substrate-1 was obtained), with a peak on the seventh day and subsequent tendency to stabilization.

Submerged cultivation of Nigrospora sp. in batch and fed-batch modes for microbial oil production.

Microbial lipids are a valuable source of potential biofuels and essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. The optimization of the fermentation conditions is a strategy that affects the total lipid concentration. The genus Nigrospora sp. has been the target of investigations based on its potential bioherbicidal action. Therefore, this study developed a strategy to maximize the biomass concentration and lipid accumulation by Nigrospora sp. in submerged fermentation. Different media compositions and process variables were investigated in shaken flasks and bioreactor in batch and fed-batch modes. Maximum biomass concentration and lipid accumulations were 40.17 g/L and 21.32 wt% in the bioreactor, which was 2.1 and 5.4 times higher than the same condition in shaken flasks, respectively. This study presents relevant information to the production of fungal lipids since few investigations are exploring the fed-batch strategy to increase the yield of fungi lipids, as well as few studies investigating Nigrospora sp. to produce lipids.

Functionalized Biochar from the Amazonian Residual Biomass Murici Seed: An Effective and Low-Cost Basic Heterogeneous Catalyst for Biodiesel Synthesis.

This study presents the synthesis of a basic heterogeneous catalyst based on sodium functionalized biochar. The murici biochar (BCAM) support used in the process was obtained through the pyrolysis of the murici seed (Byrsonimia crassifolia), followed by impregnation of the active phase in amounts that made it possible to obtain concentrations of 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18% of sodium in the final composition of the catalyst. The best-performing 15Na/BCAM catalyst was characterized by Elemental Composition (CHNS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG/DTG), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersion X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). The catalyst 15Na/BCAM was applied under optimal reaction conditions: temperature of 75 °C, reaction time of 1.5 h, catalyst concentration of 5% (w/w) and MeOH:oil molar ratio of 20:1, resulting in a biodiesel with ester content of 97.20% ± 0.31 in the first reaction cycle, and maintenance of catalytic activity for five reaction cycles with ester content above 65%. Furthermore, the study demonstrated an effective catalyst regeneration process, with the synthesized biodiesels maintaining ester content above 75% for another five reaction cycles. Thus, the data indicate a promising alternative to low-cost residual raw materials for the synthesis of basic heterogeneous catalysts.

Potencial de mineralización de nitrógeno en suelos con aplicación de cáscara de semilla de girasol / Potential nitrogen mineralization in soils with sunflower seed husk application

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el potencial de mineralización de nitrógeno (N) de suelos contrastantes luego del aporte de diferentes dosis de cascaras de semillas de girasol (CG) (Helianthus annuus L.), residuo abundante del sudoeste bonaerense (SOB). Se realizaron incubaciones aeróbicas de largo plazo (37 semanas), utilizando tres suelos diferentes (0-20 cm) y distintas dosis de CG calculadas con base en su contenido de N orgánico: 100 (D1), 200 (D2) y 400 (D3) kg N ha-1. Los suelos contrastaron en el contenido de fracciones granulométricas (S1: arena 509 g kg-1; limo 320 g kg-1 y arcilla 171 g kg-1; S2: arena 351 g kg-1; limo 448 g kg-1 y arcilla 201 g kg-1; S3: arena 827 g kg-1, limo 107 g kg-1 y arcilla 66 g kg-1). Las características químicas de CG: conductividad eléctrica= 1,6 dS m-1; pH= 5,6; materia orgánica (MO) = 958 g kg-1; N total= 7,8 g kg-1, relación C:N= 79. Los suelos demostraron diferencias significativas en el N potencialmente mineralizable (N0) con valores que fueron S1>S2>S3, al igual que en la tasa de mineralización (k) (S1 y S3= 0,0036 semana-1, S2=0,0056 semana-1). Se halló una interacción significativa en los aportes de CG y suelos, por lo que se analizó la incorporación en cada suelo. Cuando se aplicó CG, se observó una respuesta positiva sobre S3 con D1 y D2. Para S1 y S2, la aplicación de CG no aumentó el N0, aunque tampoco produjo un detrimento. La dinámica de la mineralización de N acumulada demostró efectos diferentes al aporte de CG con respecto al tipo de suelo. El aporte de CG al suelo incrementó el potencial de mineralización de N en el suelo arenoso-franco, sin disminuir el potencial en los suelos restantes, por lo que podría ser utilizada como enmienda orgánica bajo estas condiciones.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential nitrogen (N) mineralization of contrasting soils after the addition of different sunflower seed hulls (CG) (Helianthus annuus L.) doses, an abundant residue of the southwest of Buenos Aires Province (SOB). Long-term aerobic incubations (37 weeks) were performed, using three different soils (0-20 cm) and various CG levels based on their organic N content: 100 (D1), 200 (D2) and 400 (D3) kg N ha-1. Soils differs in granulometric fractions (S1: sand 509 g kg-1; silt 320 g kg-1 and clay 171 g kg-1; S2: sand 351 g kg-1; silt 448 g kg-1 and clay 201 g kg-1; S3: sand 827 g kg-1, silt 107 g kg-1 and clay 66 g kg-1). The CG chemical characteristics: electrical conductivity= 1.6 dS m-1; pH= 5.6; organic matter (MO) = 958 g kg-1; total N= 7.8 g kg-1, C:N ratio = 79. Significant differences were found in potentially mineralizable N (N0) for three soils, whose values were S1>S2>S3; as well as in the mineralization rate (k) (S1 and S3= 0.0036 week-1, S2=0.0056 week-1). Significant interaction was found with the CG contribution and soils, so the contribution was analyzed for each soil. When GC was applied, a positive response was observed on S3 with D1 and D2. For S1 and S2, the application of GC did not increase the potential for N mineralization, however, it had not a detrimental effect on the potential. Dynamics of accumulated N mineralization showed different effects of CG addition with respect to soil type. The CG addition to soil increased the potential N mineralization in the sandy-loam soil, without reducing the potential in the remaining soils, which is why it could be used as an organic amendment under these conditions.

Addition of grape marc improves the silage of aerial parts of cassava plant / La adición de orujo mejora el ensilaje de las partes aéreas de la planta de yuca / A adição de bagaço de uva melhora a silagem da parte aérea da mandioca

Abstract Background: Although it is possible to preserve the aerial part of cassava in the form of silage, as demonstrated in previous studies, its low dry matter content can result in undesirable fermentation and increased effluent losses during silage, leading to a reduction in the final quality of the silage. A possible way to get around this problem would consist in mixing this silage with dehydrated by-products from the agroindustry. Objective: To evaluate the addition of dehydrated grape marc (DGM) to a silage of aerial parts of cassava (Manihot esculenta, Crantz) on the chemical composition, degradability and in vitro gas production of silage. Methods: A completely randomized experimental design was used, with two treatments: (I) silage of the aerial part of cassava without additive; (II) silage of the aerial part of cassava added with 10% dehydrated grape marc (DGM) in the natural matter, as an additive. After 30 days of fermentation, silages were evaluated to estimate the contents of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), total digestible nutrients (TDN), as well as pH, in vitro degradability, and cumulative gas production by semi-automatic in vitro gas production. Results: Addition of DGM did not affect CP, EE, NDF, nor TDN levels in silage. The DGM, however, promoted an increase in DM content (32.61 vs 30.31%) and a reduction in pH (4.00 vs 4.75) of the silage. The silage that received DGM presented higher degradability coefficients of soluble and potentially degradable fractions, which led to higher values of potential and effective degradability. Similarly, DGM promoted a reduction in particle colonization time (6.74 vs 10.01 h) and increased cumulative gas production (62.03 vs 57.82 mL/g DM). Conclusion: Addition of 10% dehydrated grape marc in the silage of aerial parts of cassava can be useful to reduce pH and increase dry matter contents of the silage.

Resumen Antecedentes: Si bien es posible preservar la parte aérea de la yuca en forma de ensilaje, como se demostró en estudios anteriores, el bajo contenido de materia seca puede resultar en fermentaciones indeseables y mayores pérdidas de efluentes durante el ensilaje, levando a una reducción en la calidad final del ensilaje. Una de las formas de solucionar este problema sería el ensilaje mixto de la parte aérea de la yuca con subproductos deshidratados de la agroindustria. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la adición de bagazo de uva deshidratado (BUD) a la parte aérea del ensilaje de yuca (Manihot esculenta, Crantz) sobre la composición química, degradabilidad y producción de gas in vitro del ensilado. Métodos: El diseño experimental utilizado fue completamente al azar y los tratamientos consistieron en: (I) ensilado de brotes de yuca sin aditivos; (II) ensilaje de la parte aérea de yuca con 10% de BUD en materia natural, como aditivo. Luego de 30 días de fermentación, los ensilajes fueron evaluados para materia seca (MS), proteína cruda (PC), extracto de éter (EE), fibra detergente neutra (FDN), nutrientes digestibles totales (NDT), pH, degradabilidad in vitro y producción acumulada de gas mediante la técnica de producción de gas in vitro semiautomática. Resultados: La adición de BUD no cambió los contenidos de PB, EE, FDN y NDT del ensilaje. Sin embargo, BUD promovió un aumento en el contenido de MS (32,61 vs 30,31%) y una reducción en el pH (4,00 vs 4,75) del ensilaje. El ensilado que recibió la BUD mostró mayores coeficientes de degradabilidad de las fracciones solubles y potencialmente degradables, lo que resultó en mayores valores de degradabilidad potencial y efectiva. De manera similar, BUD promovió una reducción en el tiempo de colonización de partículas (6,74 vs 10,01 h) y un aumento en la producción acumulada de gas (62,03 vs 57,82 mL/g MS). Conclusiones: La adición de 10% de bagazo de uva deshidratado al ensilaje de la parte aérea de yuca puede ser útil para reducir el pH y aumentar el contenido de materia seca del ensilaje.

Resumo Antecedentes: Embora seja possível preservar a parte aérea da mandioca na forma de silagem, conforme demonstrado em estudos anteriores o baixo teor de matéria seca, pode resultar em fermentação indesejável e aumento das perdas de efluentes durante a silagem, levando à redução da qualidade final da silagem. Uma das formas de contornar esse problema seria a silagem mista da parte aérea da mandioca com subprodutos desidratados da agroindústria. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da adição do bagaço desidratado de uva (BDU) na ensilagem da parte aérea de mandioca (Manihot esculenta, Crantz) sobre a composição química, degradabilidade e produção de gases in vitro da silagem. Métodos: O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos constituíram-se por: (I) silagem da parte aérea da mandioca sem aditivo; (II) silagem da parte aérea da mandioca com 10% de bagaço desidratado de uva (BDU) na matéria natural, como aditivo. Após 30 dias de fermentação, as silagens foram avaliadas quanto aos teores de matéria seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT), pH, degradabilidade in vitro e produção cumulativa de gases por meio da técnica semiautomática de produção de gases in vitro. Resultados: A adição do BDU não alterou os teores de PB, EE, FDN e NDT da silagem. No entanto, o BDU promoveu aumento no teor de MS (32,61 vs 30,31%) e redução no pH (4,00 vs 4,75) da silagem. A silagem que recebeu o BDU apresentou maiores coeficientes de degradabilidade das frações solúvel e potencialmente degradável, o que acarretou em maiores valores de degradabilidade potencial e efetiva. Do mesmo modo, o BDU promoveu uma redução no tempo de colonização da partícula (6,74 vs 10,01 h) e um aumento na produção cumulativa de gás (62,03 vs 57,82 mL/g MS). Conclusões: A adição de 10% do bagaço desidratado de uva na silagem da parte aérea de mandioca pode ser útil para reduzir o pH e aumentar os teores de matéria seca da silagem.

Estudo comparativo dos bio-óleos obtidos por pirólises rápida e lenta do caroço de pêssego / Comparative study of bio-oils obtained by fast and slow pyrolysis of peach stone

RESUMO O processamento de pêssego em conserva gera o caroço como resíduo agroindustrial de difícil destinação. Assim, a técnica de pirólise do endocarpo lenhoso é um eficiente tratamento para conversão da biomassa em produtos com valor agregado. Entre os produtos, o bio-óleo é composto de duas fases imiscíveis (orgânica e aquosa), com potencial para suprir a produção de produtos químicos em diferentes ramos industriais. O objetivo deste estudo foi obter e avaliar a constituição da fase orgânica dos bio-óleos com base nas pirólises rápida (reator de quartzo) e lenta (reator de aço inox) do endocarpo lenhoso, ambos de leito fixo a 700°C evidenciando assim a influência dos processos na constituição dos bio-óleos obtidos. As frações líquidas foram derivatizadas com N-metil-N-trimetilsililtrifluoracetamida para posterior caracterização em cromatografia gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massas. Pela metodologia empregada, detectaram-se nas fases orgânicas dos bio-óleos da pirólise rápida e lenta um total de 59 e 41 compostos, respectivamente; destes, os fenóis são majoritários com 59,9% e 67,2%, em massa, em que os núcleos metoxifenol (rápida) e os alquilfenóis (lenta) são os compostos predominantes. Conclui-se que a etapa de derivatização e a técnica de cromatografia gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massas foram satisfatórias para a caracterização qualitativa e semiquantitativa dos bio-óleos, os quais mostraram potencial de utilização como fonte de produtos químicos e beneficiamento no reaproveitamento de resíduos.

ABSTRACT The processing of pickled peaches generates the peach stone as an agro-industrial residue that is difficult to dispose of. Thus, the woody endocarp pyrolysis technique is an efficient treatment for converting biomass into value-added products. Among the products, bio-oil is composed of two immiscible phases (organic and aqueous), with potential to supply the production of chemical products in different industrial sectors. The objective of this study was to obtain and evaluate the constitution of the organic phase of the bio-oils based on the fast (quartz reactor) and slow (stainless steel reactor) pyrolysis of the woody endocarp, both with fixed bed at 700°C, thus evidencing the influence of processes in the constitution of the obtained bio-oils. As liquid fractions, they were derived with N-methyl-N-trimethylsilyltrifluoracetamide for further characterization in gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Through the methodology employed, a total of 59 and 41 compounds were detected in the organic phases of the fast and slow pyrolysis bio-oils, respectively; Phenols are the majority, with 59.9 and 67.2% by weight, where the methoxyphenol (fast) and cresols (slow) are the predominant compounds. It is concluded that the derivatization stage and the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry technique were satisfactory for the qualitative and semi-quantitative characterization of bio-oils, which they can potentially use as a source of chemical products and to benefit from reuse of residue.

Modified Moringa oleifera Lam. Seed husks as low-cost biosorbent for atrazine removal.

Atrazine is an herbicide which is widely applied in sugarcane and corn crops. Its frequent use has resulted in environmental impacts, and its traces have been verified in surface and groundwater. Thus, it is necessary to remove this pollutant, and an alternative is the adsorption due to its universal nature, low-cost and ease of operation. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to study the adsorption capacity of atrazine by modified Moringa oleifera Lam. seed husks, a low-cost adsorbent. The biosorbent was subjected to c hemical and thermal treatment and was characterised by structural, morphological and textural analysis, which showed porous and heterogeneous characteristics, with a specific surface area of 5.77 m2 g-1. The kinetic study demonstrated equilibrium at 1200 min, with an adsorption capacity of 1.90 mg g-1 and the best fit was for the pseudo-second-order model. The isotherms were obtained at 298, 308 and 318 K. The Freundlich, Temkin and Langmuir models were applied to the experimental data, the latter being the best. The values of the thermodynamic parameters indicated that the biosorption was spontaneous, endothermic and reversible. The highest adsorption capacity obtained was 10.32 mg g-1, which was higher than several values found in the literature. The biosorbent was regenerated over three cycles, indicating its potential of atrazine removal from surface water.

Lignocellulosic biomass: Acid and alkaline pretreatments and their effects on biomass recalcitrance - Conventional processing and recent advances.

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant organic resources worldwide and is a promising source of renewable energy and bioproducts. It basically consists of three fractions, cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin, which confer a recalcitrant structure. As such, pretreatment steps are required to make each fraction available for further use, with acidic, alkaline and combined acidic-alkaline treatments being the most common techniques. This review focuses on recent strategies for lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment, with a critical discussion and comparison of their efficiency based on the composition of the materials. Mild pretreatments usually allow the recovery of the three biomass fractions for further transformation and valorisation. An insight is provided of newly developed technologies from recently filed patents on lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment and the transformation of agro-industrial residues into high value-added products, such as biofuels and organic acids.

The Role of Lignocellulosic Composition and Residual Lipids in Empty Fruit Bunches on the Production of Humic Acids in Submerged Fermentations.

The aim of this research was to study the production of humic acids (HA) by Trichoderma reesei from empty fruit bunches (EFBs) of palm oil processing, with a focus on the effects of lignocellulosic content and residual lipids. EFBs from two different soils and palm oil producers were previously characterized about their lignocellulosic composition. Submerged fermentations were inoculated with T. reesei spores and set up with or without residual lipids. The results showed that the soil and the processing for removal of the palm fresh fruits were crucial to EFB quality. Thus, EFBs were classified as type 1 (higher lignocellulosic and fatty acids composition similar to the palm oil and palm kernel oil) and type 2 (lower lignocellulosic content and fatty acids composition similar to palm oil). Despite the different profiles, the fungal growth was similar for both EFB types. HA production was associated with fungal growth, and it was higher without lipids for both EFBs. The highest HA productivity was obtained from type 1 EFB (approximately 90 mg L-1 at 48 h). Therefore, the lignocellulosic composition and the nature of the residual lipids in EFBs play an important role in HA production by submerged fermentation.

Açaí seed bran in the feed of slow-growth broilers / Farelo de caroço de açaí em ração para frangos de crescimento lento

The aim of this study was to analyze the potential use of açaí seeds as an alternative ingredient in the feed of slow-growth broilers until 28 days of age. We carried out a bromatological analysis of fractions of the açaí fruit. The açaí seed without mesocarp was the best choice for formulation of the açaí seed bran (ASB), which was evaluated in terms of bird performance and economic viability of the supplemented feed. A total of 416 male chicks of the French Red-Naked Neck lineage were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0, 2, 6 and 10% inclusion of ASBin the feed) with eight replicates each. The results indicated that ASB can be included in proportions of up to 10% in the diet of slow growth broilers at early development stage without impairing performance. The 10% inclusion level also was economically equal to the control treatment, representing a viable alternative for broiler production, with potential for reduction of the negative impacts generated by açaí residue in the environment.(AU)

Objetivou-se analisar o potencial da utilização do caroço de açaí como ingrediente alternativo na alimentação de frangos de corte de crescimento lento, até 28 dias de idade. Primeiramente foi feita a análise bromatológica de frações do fruto do açaí, que resultou no caroço de açaí sem mesocarpo como sendo a melhor opção para a formulação do farelo de caroço de açaí (FCA). O farelo foi usado na composição de rações em um experimento de desempenho das aves. Ao final foi realizada uma análise da viabilidade econômica do uso de FCA em ração pata frangos. Utilizamos 416 pintos machos, da linhagem Francês Pescoço Pelado Vermelho, em um delineamento inteiramente casualisado com quatro tratamentos (0, 2, 6 e 10% de inclusão de FCA) de oito repetições cada. Concluímos que o FCA pode ser incluído em até 10% na dieta para frango de corte de crescimento lento em fase inicial, sem ocasionar prejuízo em seu desempenho. O nível de 10% de inclusão mostrou-se economicamente equivalente ao tratamento controle, sendo uma alternativa viável de insumo na produção de frangos, que pode contribuir para a redução do impacto negativo gerado pelo resíduo do açaí no meio ambiente.(AU)

Açaí seed bran in the feed of slow-growth broilers / Farelo de caroço de açaí em ração para frangos de crescimento lento

The aim of this study was to analyze the potential use of açaí seeds as an alternative ingredient in the feed of slow-growth broilers until 28 days of age. We carried out a bromatological analysis of fractions of the açaí fruit. The açaí seed without mesocarp was the best choice for formulation of the açaí seed bran (ASB), which was evaluated in terms of bird performance and economic viability of the supplemented feed. A total of 416 male chicks of the French Red-Naked Neck lineage were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0, 2, 6 and 10% inclusion of ASBin the feed) with eight replicates each. The results indicated that ASB can be included in proportions of up to 10% in the diet of slow growth broilers at early development stage without impairing performance. The 10% inclusion level also was economically equal to the control treatment, representing a viable alternative for broiler production, with potential for reduction of the negative impacts generated by açaí residue in the environment.

Objetivou-se analisar o potencial da utilização do caroço de açaí como ingrediente alternativo na alimentação de frangos de corte de crescimento lento, até 28 dias de idade. Primeiramente foi feita a análise bromatológica de frações do fruto do açaí, que resultou no caroço de açaí sem mesocarpo como sendo a melhor opção para a formulação do farelo de caroço de açaí (FCA). O farelo foi usado na composição de rações em um experimento de desempenho das aves. Ao final foi realizada uma análise da viabilidade econômica do uso de FCA em ração pata frangos. Utilizamos 416 pintos machos, da linhagem Francês Pescoço Pelado Vermelho, em um delineamento inteiramente casualisado com quatro tratamentos (0, 2, 6 e 10% de inclusão de FCA) de oito repetições cada. Concluímos que o FCA pode ser incluído em até 10% na dieta para frango de corte de crescimento lento em fase inicial, sem ocasionar prejuízo em seu desempenho. O nível de 10% de inclusão mostrou-se economicamente equivalente ao tratamento controle, sendo uma alternativa viável de insumo na produção de frangos, que pode contribuir para a redução do impacto negativo gerado pelo resíduo do açaí no meio ambiente.

Effect of ultrasound pre-treatment on the physicochemical composition of Agave durangensis leaves and potential enzyme production.

Approximately 1 million tons of agave plants are processed annually by the Mexican tequila and mezcal industry, generating vast amounts of agroindustrial solid waste. This type of lignocellulosic biomass is considered to be agroindustrial residue, which can be used to produce enzymes, giving it added value. However, the structure of lignocellulosic biomass makes it highly recalcitrant, and results in relatively low yield when used in its native form. The aim of this study was to investigate an effective pre-treatment method for the production of commercially important hydrolytic enzymes. In this work, the physical and chemical modification of Agave durangensis leaves was analysed using ultrasound and high temperature as pre-treatments, and production of enzymes was evaluated. The pre-treatments resulted in modification of the lignocellulosic structure and composition; the ultrasound pre-treatment improved the production of inulinase by 4 U/mg and cellulase by 0.297 U/mg, and thermal pre-treatment improved ß-fructofuranosidase by 30 U/mg.

Sugar cane vinasse in water bodies: impact assessed by liver histopathology in tilapia.

Aquatic ecosystems are the main receptors of toxic substances from human activities. With the increase in sugar cane production, vinasse - the main residue of ethanol production - is a potential contaminant of water resources, due to its high organic matter content. This study was aimed at evaluating the toxicity of vinasse by examining the liver of the fish Oreochromis niloticus exposed to different dilutions of sugar cane vinasse (1%, 2%, 5%, 5% and 10%) in laboratory bioassays. Portions of liver were collected and fixed for histological and histochemical techniques to detect total proteins, polysaccharides and lipids. In the histological analysis, the groups treated with vinasse exhibited significant alterations, such as loss of cytoplasmic integrity, loss of cell limit and tissue disorganization. Protein and lipid profiles were not altered. Higher accumulation of polysaccharides was detected in fish exposed to lower concentrations of vinasse, with a gradual decrease in animals treated with vinasse in higher concentrations. We concluded that vinasse has a dose-dependent toxic and cytotoxic potential in water bodies and that the liver is strongly affected when acutely exposed to this contaminant.

Development of cassava plants and its mycorrhizal association in soil supplemented with sugarcane agroindustrial residue / Desenvolvimento vegetativo e associação micorrízica em plantas de mandioca adubadas com resíduo agroindustrial

Application of organic agroindustrial residues on agriculture can be one way to improve the development and chemical composition of plants, reducing the cost with chemical fertilizers and impacts generated by the excessive use of them. Sugarcane agroindustrial residue has been generated in high quantity in Brazilian semiarid region and can be applied to cassava crop to improve its growth. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of application of sugarcane agroindustrial residue on the vegetative development, chemical composition and mycorrhizal association of cassava plants (Manihot esculenta var. Engana ladrão). It was performed an experiment in greenhouse with completely randomized design with four treatments of addition of sugarcane agroindustrial residue (0, 5, 10 and 15%) with nine replicates. The addition of sugarcane agroindustrial residue increased fresh dry root biomass, leaf area, crude protein and mineral matter, without reducing the mycorrhizal colonization and glomerospores number. This type of residue can be one alternative to improve the nutritional value of these fodder.(AU)

A aplicação de resíduos orgânicos oriundo da agroindústria na agricultura pode ser uma alternativa para incrementar o crescimento e composição químico-bromatológica das plantas, reduzindo os custos com fertilizantes químicos e os impactos que podem ser gerados pelo uso excessivo destes. O resíduo agroindustrial de cana-de-açúcar é gerado em grandes quantidades na região semiárida brasileira, podendo ser aplicado à cultura da mandioca a fim de melhorar seu crescimento. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito da aplicação de resíduo agroindustrial no desenvolvimento vegetativo, características químico-bromatológica e associação micorrízica de plantas de mandioca (Manihot esculenta variedade Engana ladrão). Foi realizado um experimento em casa de vegetação em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (0, 5, 10 e 15 %) de adição de resíduo de bagaço de cana-de-açúcar enriquecido com torta de filtro, em nove repetições. A adição de resíduo de cana-de-açúcar enriquecido promoveu aumento na biomassa fresca e seca radicular, área foliar, proteína bruta e matéria mineral, além de não afetar negativamente a colonização micorrízica e o número de glomerosporos. Este tipo de resíduo pode ser uma alternativa para melhorar o valor nutritivo da forragem.(AU)

Development of cassava plants and its mycorrhizal association in soil supplemented with sugarcane agroindustrial residue / Desenvolvimento vegetativo e associação micorrízica em plantas de mandioca adubadas com resíduo agroindustrial

Application of organic agroindustrial residues on agriculture can be one way to improve the development and chemical composition of plants, reducing the cost with chemical fertilizers and impacts generated by the excessive use of them. Sugarcane agroindustrial residue has been generated in high quantity in Brazilian semiarid region and can be applied to cassava crop to improve its growth. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of application of sugarcane agroindustrial residue on the vegetative development, chemical composition and mycorrhizal association of cassava plants (Manihot esculenta var. Engana ladrão). It was performed an experiment in greenhouse with completely randomized design with four treatments of addition of sugarcane agroindustrial residue (0, 5, 10 and 15%) with nine replicates. The addition of sugarcane agroindustrial residue increased fresh dry root biomass, leaf area, crude protein and mineral matter, without reducing the mycorrhizal colonization and glomerospores number. This type of residue can be one alternative to improve the nutritional value of these fodder.

A aplicação de resíduos orgânicos oriundo da agroindústria na agricultura pode ser uma alternativa para incrementar o crescimento e composição químico-bromatológica das plantas, reduzindo os custos com fertilizantes químicos e os impactos que podem ser gerados pelo uso excessivo destes. O resíduo agroindustrial de cana-de-açúcar é gerado em grandes quantidades na região semiárida brasileira, podendo ser aplicado à cultura da mandioca a fim de melhorar seu crescimento. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito da aplicação de resíduo agroindustrial no desenvolvimento vegetativo, características químico-bromatológica e associação micorrízica de plantas de mandioca (Manihot esculenta variedade Engana ladrão). Foi realizado um experimento em casa de vegetação em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (0, 5, 10 e 15 %) de adição de resíduo de bagaço de cana-de-açúcar enriquecido com torta de filtro, em nove repetições. A adição de resíduo de cana-de-açúcar enriquecido promoveu aumento na biomassa fresca e seca radicular, área foliar, proteína bruta e matéria mineral, além de não afetar negativamente a colonização micorrízica e o número de glomerosporos. Este tipo de resíduo pode ser uma alternativa para melhorar o valor nutritivo da forragem.

Guava Psidium guajava seed flour and dry Aspergillus niger mycelium as nitrogen sources for the production of biomass and antimicrobial compounds produced by Weissella confusa

Background: The fermentation substrate efficiency of glucose supplemented with guava seed flour (GGSF) or glucose supplemented with dry Aspergillus niger mycelium (GANM) was evaluated during the production of biomass and antimicrobial compounds by the lactic acid bacteria Weissella confusa. Results: The fermentation substrate efficiency was measured by comparing the biomass formation, substrate consumption, substrate conversion, antimicrobial activity and product yield. The antimicrobial activity was measured against a commercial Staphylococcus aureus strain. The results were compared against fermentations performed in a commercial substrate (CS), the MRS (Man-Rogosa-Sharpe) substrate. The fermentations were performed discontinuously for 4 hrs at 100 rpm and 32ºC. The biomass production exhibited a statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between treatments. The biomass production was 13.98% higher in the CS than in the GGSF and GANM substrates; however, there were no statistically significant differences for the specific growth rate. Conclusions: The GGSF and GANM substrates favored an antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus during the second and third hours of fermentation (inhibition diameter was 6.11% and 4.72%, respectively). The GGSF, GANM and CS substrates did not present statistically significant differences for the production of antimicrobial substances against Staphylococcus aureus. Therefore, GGSF and GANM can be considered as viable and economical alternative nitrogen sources for the production of the antimicrobial compounds formed by Weissella confusa in submerged fermentations.

Sugarcane vinasse: environmental implications of its use.

The inadequate and indiscriminate disposal of sugarcane vinasse in soils and water bodies has received much attention since decades ago, due to environmental problems associated to this practice. Vinasse is the final by-product of the biomass distillation, mainly for the production of ethanol, from sugar crops (beet and sugarcane), starch crops (corn, wheat, rice, and cassava), or cellulosic material (harvesting crop residues, sugarcane bagasse, and wood). Because of the large quantities of vinasse produced, alternative treatments and uses have been developed, such as recycling of vinasse in fermentation, fertirrigation, concentration by evaporation, and yeast and energy production. This review was aimed at examining the available data on the subject as a contribution to update the information on sugarcane vinasse, from its characteristics and chemical composition to alternatives uses in Brazil: fertirrigation, concentration by evaporation, energy production; the effects on soil physical, chemical and biological properties; its influence on seed germination, its use as biostimulant and environmental contaminant. The low pH, electric conductivity, and chemical elements present in sugarcane vinasse may cause changes in the chemical and physical-chemical properties of soils, rivers, and lakes with frequent discharges over a long period of time, and also have adverse effects on agricultural soils and biota in general. Thus, new studies and green methods need to be developed aiming at sugarcane vinasse recycling and disposal.

Qualidade da silagem de resíduo de manga com diferentes aditivos / Quality of mango residue silage with different additives

Com o objetivo de avaliar a qualidade da silagem de resíduo de manga (Mangifera indica L.) em mistura com diferentes aditivos, em níveis crescentes de adição, foi conduzido este estudo. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com três repetições, sendo os tratamentos dispostos em um esquema fatorial do tipo (4 x 3) + 1, sendo quatro aditivos (milho desintegrado com palha e sabugo (MDPS), palha de feijão (PF), sabugo de milho (SM) e casca de café (CC)) em três níveis de adição (10, 20 e 30 por cento) e um tratamento testemunha (resíduo de manga puro ensilado). O material experimental foi ensilado em silos de PVC adaptados com válvula tipo "Bunsen" com capacidade para aproximadamente 3 kg cada. Todos os aditivos utilizados elevaram os teores de MS. À medida que se aumentou os níveis de adição dos aditivos, houve uma redução nos valores de poder tampão (PT). Os valores de pH e nitrogênio amoniacal (N-NH3 / por centoN total) mantiveram-se dentro dos padrões indicativos de um bom processo fermentativo. O padrão de fermentação das silagens aditivadas foi satisfatório, sem haver comprometimento na qualidade destas. Os aditivos milho desintegrado com palha e sabugo, palha de feijão ou casca de café podem ser adicionados ao processo de ensilagem do resíduo de manga nos níveis de adição de 20 ou 30 por cento, melhorando seu padrão fermentativo.

With the objective to evaluate the quality of mango (Mangifera indica L.) residue silage in mixture with different additives at growing levels of addition, this study was undertaken. The experimental design utilized was the completely randomized, with three replicates. The treatments were arranged in a factorial scheme (4 x 3) + 1 type and the additives being four (ground ears with husks (GEWH), bean straw (BS), corn cob (CC) and coffee hull (CH)) at three levels of addition (10, 20 and 30 percent) and a control treatment (ensiled unmixed mango residue). The experimental material was ensiled in PVC silos, fitted with a "Bunsen" type valve, with a capacity of about 3 kg each. All the additives utilized raised the DM contents of the silages. As the levels of addition of the additives were increased, there was a reduction in the values of buffering power (PT). The values of pH and ammoniac nitrogen (N-NH3 / percenttotal N) were maintained within the indicative standard of a goof fermentative process. The fermentation standard of silages with additives was satisfactory with no damage in their quality. The additives GEWH, BS or CH may be added to the process of ensiling the mango residue at the levels of addition of 20 or 30 percent, to improve its fermentative standard for silages of good quality.