The aims of this project were to investigate a range of limitations affecting the electrical performance of bioelectrochemical systems (BES) and their use as analytical tools. The model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 was used to characterize light-driven BESs, or biophotovoltaic (BPV) devices. The phycobilisome (PBS) antenna size was altered to modify light absorption. At low to medium light intensities the optimum PBS antenna size was found to consist of one phycocyanin (PC) disc. Incorporating pulsed amplitude fluorescence (PAM) measurements into the BPV characterization allowed simultaneous comparison of photosynthetic efficiency to EET in Synechocystis. Non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) was investigated as a limiting factor in biophotovoltaic efficiency and was found to be reduced in the PBS antenna-truncated mutants. Fluorescence and electrochemical data were combined to develop a framework for quantifying the efficiency of light to bioelectricity conversion. This approach is a first step towards a more comprehensive and detailed set of analytical tools to monitor EET in direct relation to the underlying photosynthetic biology. A set of metabolic electron sinks were deleted to remove a selection of pathways that might compete with extracellular electron transfer (EET). The combined deletion of a bi-directional hydrogenase - HoxH, nitric oxide reductase - NorB, cytochrome-c oxidase - COX, bd-quinol oxidase - cyd, and the respiratory terminal oxidase - ARTO, roughly doubled light driven electron flux to EET. Deletion of nitrate reductase - NarB, and nitrite reductase - NirA, increased EET to a similar degree, but combination with the other knockouts compromised cell viability and did not increase output further. In addition to Synechocystis, the purple non-sulphur α-proteobacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009 was used to test the effect of storage molecule synthesis knockout in a more industrially relevant organic carbon source driven BES, or microbial fuel cell (MFC). However, the removal of glycogen and poly-ß-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) did not have a significant effect on electrical output. Finally, the importance of electrode material and design for cell to anode connections in an MFC was investigated. EET from R. palustris was greatly enhanced using custom designed graphene and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) aerogels. Pristine graphene is also shown for the first time to be a viable, low cost alternative to platinum as a cathodic catalyst. Together, these results present a holistic view of major limitations on electrical output from BESs that may contribute to enhancing EET for power generation from MFCs in the long term, and optimization of BPV devices as reliable analytical tools in the short term.

Soja [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] é a oleaginosa mais amplamente cultivada em todo o mundo. E para que seja possível que se obtenha uma produção economicamente viável, além da adoção de técnicas para um manejo que otimize a produtividade, é necessário um ambiente que ofereça características adequadas para o bom crescimento e desenvolvimento da planta. Dentre as condições adversas que podem alterar negativamente o desenvolvimento, a escassez de água é a restrição ambiental que induz maiores perdas e diminui a produção em nível global. Neste âmbito, diversos produtos vêm sendo desenvolvidos e utilizados com o objetivo de diminuir os efeitos negativos ocasionados por alta intensidade luminosa, altas temperaturas e déficit hídrico na produtividade das plantas. Dentre estes, destacam-se certos produtos químicos que podem ser usados para mitigar o estresse da planta, como o caulim e o carbonato de cálcio. Embora haja um volume considerável de estudos do uso destes antitranspirantes como protetor, principalmente da aplicação do caulim, a maioria destes são com hortifrutis e plantas ornamentais, sendo incipiente os estudos sobre sua utilização em soja. Além disto, há a necessidade da elucidação dos resultados do uso conjunto de caulim e carbonato de cálcio. O experimento foi realizado na casa de vegetação do Laboratório de Estudo de Plantas Sob Estresse (LEPSE) da Escola Superior de Agricultura \"Luiz de Queiroz\" - Universidade de São Paulo (ESALQ - USP). Os tratamentos consistiram na pulverização de caulim e carbonato de cálcio nas seguintes doses: 0 L ha-1 (controle), 10 L ha-1 e 20 L ha-1 e submetidas ao déficit hídrico pelo método gravimétrico mediante duas reposições hídricas no solo: com irrigação (100% da capacidade de campo, CC) e déficit hídrico (40% da capacidade de campo, CC). Neste experimento, os regimes hídricos não apresentaram diferenças estatísticas significantes nos primeiros dias, apesar disto, esta restrição na disponibilidade de água foi suficiente para alterar algumas variáveis analisadas, sugerindo um efeito no metabolismo das plantas. Foi avaliado que o déficit hídrico afetou a maquinaria fotossintética, afetando as características fisiológicas das plantas de soja, com diminuição da condutância estomática, assimilação de CO2, taxa transpiratória, temperatura foliar, eficiência quântica de assimilação de CO2, Coeficiente de extinção fotoquímica e Taxa aparente de transporte de elétrons, além de aumento do Coeficiente de extinção não fotoquímica. Estes resultados indicam que o agroquímico a base de caulim e carbonato de cálcio não altera o metabolismo em plantas de soja nas condições utilizadas neste experimento, sendo evidente apenas os resultados decorrentes da restrição hídrica. / Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is the most widely grown oilseed in the world. And to be possible to obtain an economically viable production, besides the adoption of techniques for a management that optimizes productivity, an environment is needed that offers adequate characteristics for the good growth and development of the plant. Among adverse conditions that can negatively alter development, water deficit is the environmental constraint that induces greater losses and decreases production at the global level. In this context, several products have been developed and used with the objective of reducing the negative effects caused by high light intensity, high temperatures and water deficit in plant productivity. These include certain chemicals that can be used to mitigate plant stress, such as kaolin and calcium carbonate. Although there is a considerable amount of studies on the use of these antiperspirants as a protector, mainly of the application of kaolin, the majority of these are with vegetables and ornamental plants, being incipient the studies on their use in soy. In addition, there is a need to elucidate the results of the use a product consisting of kaolin and calcium carbonate. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse of the Laboratory of Study of Under Stress Plants (LEPSE) of the \"Luiz de Queiroz\" School of Agriculture - University of São Paulo (ESALQ - USP). The treatments consisted of spraying kaolin and calcium carbonate in the following doses: 0 L ha-1 (control), 10 L ha-1 and 20 L ha-1 and submitted to water deficit by gravimetric method (100% of the field capacity, CC) and water deficit (40% of the field capacity, CC). In this study, a water deficit that caused damage to the photosynthetic machinery of soybean plants was evaluated. The results presented allow us to propose that kaolin induces an improvement in the photosynthetic performance of the hydrated plants, whose responses may possibly increase the final yield of the plants. Under water deficit, high temperature and irradiance the product is not able to maintain the photosynthetic parameters, as observed in other studies. In this experiment, water deficit didn\'t present significant statistical differences in the first days, although, this restriction in water availability was enough to alter some variables analyzed, suggesting an effect on plant metabolism. It was evaluated that the water deficit affected the photosynthetic machinery, affecting the physiological characteristics of the soybean plants, with a decrease in stomatal conductance, CO2 assimilation, transpiration rate, leaf temperature, quantum efficiency of CO2 assimilation, photochemical extinction coefficient and apparent rate of electron transport, in addition to increasing the non-photochemical extinction coefficient. These results indicate that the agrochemical based on kaolin and calcium carbonate don\'t alter the metabolism in soybean plants under the conditions used in this experiment, being evident only the results of the water restriction.

Yeung, Fai Fai. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2009. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 212-243). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / Acknowledgements --- p.i / Abstract (English) --- p.iv / Abstract (Chinese) --- p.x / Contents --- p.xiv / List of Tables --- p.xxii / List of Figures --- p.xxiv / Chapter Chapter 1 --- General Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter I.1 --- General Ideal and Background on Seasonality and Phenology --- p.1 / Chapter I.I.1 --- Seasonality Study of Terrestrial Plant --- p.2 / Chapter I.I.2 --- Study on Seasonality of Marine Algae --- p.3 / Chapter I.2 --- Life History and Seasonality of Sargassum spp --- p.4 / Chapter I.2.1 --- Why Study Sargassum seasonality --- p.5 / Chapter I.2.2 --- Spatial and Temporal Variations in Seasonality of Sargassum spp --- p.6 / Chapter I.2.2.1 --- Differences in seasonality based on locality --- p.7 / Chapter I.2.2.2 --- Interspecific differences in seasonality --- p.7 / Chapter I.2.2.3 --- Intra-specific differences in seasonality --- p.8 / Chapter I.2.3 --- Studies on Seasonality of Sargassum spp. in Hong Kong --- p.9 / Chapter I.3 --- Photosynthesis of Seaweeds --- p.11 / Chapter I.3.1 --- Photosynthesis - Ecophysiological Indicator for Seasonality --- p.11 / Chapter I.3.2 --- Photosynthesis in Different Parts of Seaweeds --- p.13 / Chapter I.3.3 --- New Methodology to Study Photosynthesis --- p.15 / Chapter I.4. --- Scope and Significance of this Thesis Research --- p.16 / Chapter I.4.1 --- General Objectives --- p.17 / Chapter I.4.2 --- Study Organisms --- p.17 / Chapter I.4.2.1 --- Sargassum hemiphyllum (Turner) C Agardh --- p.18 / Chapter I.4.2.1 --- Sargassum siliquastrum (Turner) C Agardh --- p.18 / Chapter I.4.3 --- Study Site --- p.19 / Chapter I.4.3.1 --- Lung Lok Shui (LLS) --- p.19 / Chapter I.4.3.2 --- Lung Yue Tsui (LYT) --- p.19 / Chapter I.4.3.3 --- Lo Fu Ngan (LFN； --- p.20 / Chapter I.4.3.4 --- Lung Ha Wan (LHW) --- p.21 / Chapter I.4.3.5 --- Clear Water Bay (CWB) --- p.21 / Chapter I.4.3.6 --- Tai Tam Wan --- p.21 / Chapter I.4.3.6.1 --- Tai Tam Wan (rock shore) (TTW(rs)) --- p.21 / Chapter I.4.3.6.2 --- Tai Tam Wan (sea school) (TTW (ss)) --- p.21 / Chapter I.5 --- Organization Chart --- p.22 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Comparative Seasonality of Sargassum siliquastrum and S hemiphyllum in Hong Kong S.A.R --- p.35 / Chapter II.1 --- Introduction --- p.35 / Chapter II.2 --- Materials and Methods --- p.39 / Chapter II.2.1 --- Study Sites --- p.39 / Chapter II.2.2 --- Seasonal Variation in Size and Reproductive Status of Sargassum Plants --- p.39 / Chapter II.2.3 --- "Seasonal Variation in Growth Rates, Population Structures and Densities" --- p.42 / Chapter II.2.4 --- Comparisons between Populations of Sargassum spp --- p.43 / Chapter II.2.5 --- Seasonal Changes in Environmental Parameters --- p.44 / Chapter II.2.6 --- Statistical Analysis --- p.45 / Chapter II.3 --- Results --- p.46 / Chapter II.3.1 --- Seasonality of S. siliquastrum along the Latitudinal Gradient from North to South of Hong Kong --- p.46 / Chapter II.3.1.1 --- Seasonal variation of mean thallus length --- p.46 / Chapter II.3.1.2 --- Seasonality in reproduction --- p.47 / Chapter II. 3.1.3 --- Growth rates --- p.49 / Chapter II.3.1.4 --- Seasonal variations in mean density --- p.50 / Chapter II. 3.1.5 --- Population structure --- p.51 / Chapter II.3.2 --- Seasonality of S. siliquastrum along the Vertical Gradient of Different Depths --- p.56 / Chapter II.3.2.1 --- Seasonal variation of mean thallus length --- p.56 / Chapter II. 3.2.2 --- Seasonality of reproduction --- p.56 / Chapter II.3.2.3 --- Growth rates --- p.57 / Chapter II.3.2.4 --- Seasonal variations in mean density --- p.58 / Chapter II.3.2.5 --- Population Structure --- p.59 / Chapter II.3.3 --- Seasonality of S. hemiphyllum along the Latitudinal Gradient from North to South of Hong Kong --- p.63 / Chapter II. 3.3.1 --- Seasonal variation of mean thallus length --- p.63 / Chapter II. 3.3.2 --- Percentage of reproductive plants --- p.63 / Chapter II.3.3.3 --- Growth rates --- p.64 / Chapter II.3.4 --- Comparison of Seasonality between S siliquastrum and S. hemiphyllum --- p.64 / Chapter II.3.5 --- Comparison of Environmental Parameters among Sites --- p.66 / Chapter II.4 --- Discussion --- p.69 / Chapter II.4.1 --- Inter-specific Comparison on Sargassum phenology --- p.69 / Chapter II.4.2 --- Intra-specific Comparison on Sargassum phenology --- p.73 / Chapter II.4.2.1 --- Comparison along regional scale (> 100kms) geographical range --- p.73 / Chapter II. 4.2.2 --- Comparison along meso-scale (< 100kms) geographical range --- p.77 / Chapter II. 4.2.2.1 --- Comparison along meso-scale latitudinal gradient 一 S. siliquastrum --- p.78 / Chapter II.4.2.2.2 --- Comparison along meso-scale latitudinal gradient - S. hemiphyllum --- p.82 / Chapter II. 4.2.2.3 --- Comparison along vertical depth gradient - S. siliquastrum --- p.87 / Chapter II.5 --- Summary --- p.91 / Chapter Chapter 3 --- Photosynthetic activities of Sargassum siliquastrum and S hemiphyllum in Hong Kong S.A.R --- p.125 / Chapter III.l. --- Introduction --- p.125 / Chapter III.2. --- Materials and Methods --- p.128 / Chapter III.2.1 --- Seasonal Variation in Photosynthetic Activities of Sargassum spp. (Field Monitoring) --- p.128 / Chapter III.2.2 --- Seasonal Variation in Photosynthetic Activities of Sargassum spp. (Laboratory Measurement) --- p.130 / Chapter III.3 --- Results --- p.131 / Chapter III.3.1 --- Initial Preliminary Testing on Sampling Size for PAM Measurement --- p.131 / Chapter III.3.2 --- Seasonal Variations of Effective Quantum Yield (Field Monitoring) --- p.131 / Chapter III. 3.2.1 --- Intra-specific comparison along latitudinal gradient from north to south of Hong Kong 一 S siliquastrum --- p.131 / Chapter III. 3.2.2 --- Intra-specific comparison along latitudinal gradient from north to south of Hong Kong 一 S hemiphyllum --- p.134 / Chapter III.3.2.3 --- Intra-specific comparison along vertical depth gradient - S. siliquastrum --- p.136 / Chapter III.3.3 --- Seasonal Variations of Maximum Quantum Yield (Laboratory Measurement) and Comparative Photosynthesis of Different Parts of Sargassum spp --- p.137 / Chapter III.4 --- Discussion --- p.139 / Chapter III.4.1 --- Seasonal Photosynthetic Performances of S siliquastrum and S. hemiphyllum --- p.139 / Chapter III.4.2 --- Different level of Photosynthesis in Various Parts of Sargassum spp --- p.146 / Chapter III.4.3 --- Comparative Photosynthesis from Different Depths --- p.153 / Chapter III.5. --- Summary --- p.155 / Chapter Chapter 4 --- Transplantation Experiment --- p.172 / Chapter IV.l. --- Introduction --- p.172 / Chapter VI.2. --- Materials and Methods --- p.174 / Chapter IV.2.1 --- Reciprocal Transplantation for S. siliquastrum --- p.174 / Chapter IV.2.2 --- Reciprocal Transplantation for S. hemiphyllum --- p.176 / Chapter VI.3. --- Results --- p.178 / Chapter IV.3.1 --- Reciprocal Transplantation for S. siliquastrum --- p.178 / Chapter IV.3.1.1 --- Mean thallus length --- p.178 / Chapter IV.3.1.2 --- Percentage of reproductive plants --- p.181 / Chapter IV.3.1.3 --- Photosynthetic effective quantum yield --- p.182 / Chapter IV.3.1.4 --- Survivorship --- p.183 / Chapter IV.3.2 --- Reciprocal Transplantation for S. hemiphyllum --- p.184 / Chapter IV.3.2. 1 --- Mean thallus length --- p.184 / Chapter IV.3.2.2 --- Percentage of reproductive plants --- p.185 / Chapter IV.3.2.3 --- Photosynthetic effective quantum yield --- p.186 / Chapter IV.3.2.4 --- Survivorship --- p.187 / Chapter IV.4 --- Discussion --- p.187 / Chapter IV.4.1 --- Transplantation Experiment for S. siliquastrum --- p.188 / Chapter IV.4.2 --- Transplantation Experiment for S. hemiphyllum --- p.192 / Chapter IV.5 --- Summary --- p.196 / Chapter Chapter 5 --- Summary and Conclusion --- p.204 / References --- p.212

A viticultura no Brasil e no Estado de São Paulo encontra-se em expansão nos últimos 10 anos e a cv. Niagara Rosada (Vitis labrusca) se destaca como principal cultivar para produção de uvas para mesa. Essa cultivar é suscetível à várias doenças foliares, como a ferrugem (Phakopsora euvitis) e o míldio (Plasmopara viticola). Não existem estimativas quantitativas dos danos causados por essas doenças na cv. Niagara Rosada. Diante do exposto os objetivos desse trabalho foram quantificar os efeitos da ferrugem e do míldio nas trocas gasosas, nas limitações da fotossíntese, no acúmulo de biomassa, no acúmulo de carboidratos, e na produção da cv. Niagara Rosada e desenvolver um modelo de simulação para V. labrusca acoplado com os mecanismos de danos da ferrugem e míldio. Experimentos foram conduzidos, separadamente para cada doença, em condições controladas, em mudas inoculadas com diferentes concentrações de P. euvitis e P. viticola e em campo experimental. Medidas de trocas gasosas e curvas de resposta da taxa líquida de assimilação de CO2 ao aumento da concentração intercelular de CO2 (Ci) foram realizadas em mudas sadias e infectadas com P. euvitis e P. viticola. Teores de açúcares solúveis totais, sacarose e amido foram determinados em plantas sadias e inoculadas com os patógenos. P. euvitis e P. viticola reduziram a taxa fotossintética em plantas infectadas tanto na área da lesão como no tecido verde adjacente a lesão (lesão virtual). Valores do parâmetro &beta;, indicativo da lesão virtual, foram de 5,7 e 2,9, respectivamente para P. euvitis e P. viticola. P. euvitis reduziu em 48%, 36% e 67% a atividade da Rubisco (Vcmax), a taxa máxima de transporte de elétrons usados para a regeneraração da RuBP (Jmax) e a condutância do mesofilo (gm), respectivamente, em folhas infectadas. A área foliar e biomassa de raízes em mudas inoculadas com P. euvitis foram reduzidas. Através de análises histopatológicas e da quantificação de amido nas folhas sadias e doentes foi possível observar o acúmulo de amido em regiões adjacentes às pústulas de P. euvitis. Mesmo em baixas severidades da ferrugem já se observam reduções no acúmulo de carboidratos em raízes. P. viticola reduziu Vcmax em 23,5 % em folhas infectadas comparadas às folhas sadias. P. viticola reduziu a biomassa de raízes e quantidade de carboidratos nas raízes de mudas doentes e de plantas no campo em ano de alta severidade da doença. Plantas no campo com sintomas míldio produziram em média 0,5 kg a menos do que plantas sadias e a principal causa da redução na produção foi a queda de bagas causada pela infecção de P. viticola nos cachos. Um modelo de simulação para Vitis labrusca foi desenvolvido, utilizando o software Stella&reg;. A produção, partição e dinâmica da biomassa da videira foi simulada ao longo de 20 anos e os efeitos de P. euvitis e P. viticola na redução do tecido verde sadio da planta, na redução da eficiência fotossintética, no desvio de assimilados, na aceleração da senescência foliar e na queda de frutos foram inseridos no modelo. / Viticulture in Brazil and in the state of São Paulo has increased in the last 10 years and cv. Niagara Rosada (Vitis labrusca) is the main cultivar for the production of table grapes. This cultivar is susceptible to several foliar diseases, such as rust (Phakopsora euvitis) and downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola). There are no quantitative estimates of the damage caused by these pathogens in cv. Niagara Rosada. The objectives of this work were to quantify the effects of rust and downy mildew on gas exchange, photosynthesis limitations, biomass accumulation, carbohydrate accumulation and production of cv. Niagara Rosada and to develop a simulation model for V. labrusca coupled with damage mechanisms caused by rust and mildew. Experiments were conducted, independently for each disease, under controlled conditions in potted plants inoculated with different concentrations of P. euvitis and P. viticola and in experimental field, with natural occurrence of diseases. Measurements of gas exchange and response curves of photosynthetic rate to the increase of the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) were carried out in healthy plants and infected plants with P. euvitis and P. viticola. Total soluble sugars, sucrose and starch contents were determined in healthy plants and inoculated plants with the pathogens and kept under controlled conditions. P. euvitis and P. viticola reduced the photosynthetic rate in infected plants both in the area of the lesion and in the green tissue adjacent to the lesion (virtual lesion). Values of parameter &beta;, indicative of the virtual lesion, were 5.8 and 2.9, respectively for P. euvitis and P. viticola. P. euvitis reduced the activity of Rubisco (Vcmax), rate of electrons transport contributing for the RuBP-regeneration (Jmax) and the conductance of mesophyll (gm), respectively, on infected leaves by 48%, 36% and 67%. The severity of P. euvitis reduced leaf area and biomass of plant roots. The histopathological analysis and starch quantification in the leaves allowed to observe starch accumulation in regions adjacent to the pustules of P. euvitis. Even in low disease severities, reductions in carbohydrates accumulation of in roots are already observed. P. viticola reduced Vcmax by 23.5% in infected leaves compared to healthy leaves. P. viticola reduced the root biomass and carbohydrate amounts in the roots of potted plants and plants in the field in the year of high disease severity. Field plants with mildew symptoms produced on average 0.5 kg less than healthy plantsand the main cause of reduction in production was the drop of berries caused by infection of P. viticola in the clusters. A simulation model for Vitis labrusca was developed using Stella &reg; software. The production, partitioning and dynamics of grapevine biomass was simulated over 20 years and the effects of P. euvitis and P. viticola on the reduction of healthy green plant tissue and photosynthetic efficiency, the assimilative sapper, leaf senescence acceleration and fruit drop were coupled in the model.

A produção de forragem em pastagens é resultado de um processo complexo e dinâmico onde características estruturais como o arranjo e a distribuição de partes da planta e o padrão de distribuição de luz condicionam respostas fisiológicas e produtivas. A altura de dossel mantida constante pode ser relacionada com respostas produtivas, estruturais e fisiológicas do dossel, possibilitando recomendações de manejo do pastejo. O objetivo do trabalho foi quantificar o efeito da altura de dossel mantida constante em 15, 30 e 45 cm sobre características produtivas e morfo-fisiológicas do capim Xaraés [Brachiaria brizantha (A. Rich) Stapf. cv. Xaraés] submetido à lotação contínua. O estudo foi realizado na Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, campus da USP, localizado em Piracicaba SP. Foram avaliados a produção e taxas de acúmulo de forragem, proporção de folhas, colmos e material morto, índice de área foliar (IAF), interceptação luminosa (IL), ângulo foliar e taxas de fotossíntese foliar e de dossel. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e três repetições. As unidades experimentais (piquetes) tiveram 120 m2 cada e as alturas de dossel foram mantidas constante utilizando a técnica de mob grazing. O total de forragem produzida e a taxa de acúmulo não variaram com as alturas de dossel estudadas. A massa de forragem total mantida nos pastos esteve diretamente relacionada com a altura de dossel. A maior proporção de folhas nos dosséis mantidos a 15 cm foi acompanhada de menor proporção de colmos, com exceção do final da primavera, em relação àqueles mantidos a 45 cm. No final da primavera maiores proporções de material morto foram encontradas nos dosséis mantidos a 45 cm, não variando com as alturas de dossel do verão ao início do outono. O IAF esteve diretamente relacionado com a altura de dossel apresentando valores médios variando de 1,6 a 3,4 para os dosséis mantidos a 15 e 45 cm, respectivamente. O IAF dos dosséis com valores de 2,5 já apresentavam máximos valores de IL (99%), condição encontrada nos pastos mantidos a 30 cm. O ângulo foliar não sofreu efeito de altura de dossel, com média de 39º em relação à horizontal. A taxa fotossintética média da folha mais jovem completamente expandida foi diminuída 17% quando a altura média de dossel foi aumentada de 15 para 45 cm. As taxas de fotossíntese de dossel simuladas pelo modelo foram aumentadas com incrementos na altura de dossel, alcançando valores máximos nos dosséis mantidos a 30 e 45 cm. O aumento nas taxas fotossintéticas de dossel seguiu o mesmo padrão de resposta do IAF e da IL. A altura de dossel em pastos de capim Xaraés pode ser mantida entre 15 e 45 cm, porém perdas significativas podem ocorrer na assimilação de carbono quando os dosséis são mantidos a 15 cm. / Forage production from pastures is the result of a complex and dynamic process where structural features such as the arrangement and distribution of plant parts and patterns of light distribution condition physiological and productive responses. Canopy height, when kept constant can be related to the productive, physiological and structural responses by the canopy, allowing for the development of grazing management recommendations. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of canopy height, maintained at 15, 30 and 45 cm on productive, morphological and physiological responses of Xaraes palisadegrass [Brachiaria brizantha (A. Rich) Stapf. cv. Xaraés] under continuous stocking. The study was carried out at Escola Superior de Agricultura \"Luiz de Queiroz\", USP campus, located in Piracicaba - SP. Responses measured included forage production and accumulation rates, the proportion of leaves, stems and dead material, leaf area index (LAI), light interception (LI), leaf angle, and photosynthetic rates of leaf and canopy. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments and three replications. Experimental units (paddocks) had 120 m2 each and canopy heights were kept constant using the mob grazing technique. The total herbage yield and accumulation rate did not vary among canopy heights. Forage mass was directly related to the height of the canopy and the largest proportion of leaves in the canopy kept at 15 cm was accompanied by a lower proportion of stems, except in late spring, compared to those kept at 45 cm. In late spring higher proportions of dead material were found in swards kept at 45 cm, but this response did not vary with canopy height from summer to early autumn. Leaf area index was directly related to canopy height, averaging 1.6 to 3.4 for the canopies kept at 15 and 45 cm, respectively. Canopy LAI of 2.5 already showed maximum LI (99%), a condition found in pastures maintained at 30 cm. Leaf angle was not affected by canopy height, with an average of 39 degrees from the horizontal reference. The average photosynthetic rate of the youngest fully expanded leaf decreased by 17% when the average canopy height was increased from 15 to 45 cm. Simulated rates of canopy photosynthesis were increased with increasing canopy height, reaching maximum values in swards kept at 30 cm. The increase in canopy photosynthetic rates followed the same pattern of response of LAI and LI. Canopy height in grazed grass Xaraes palisadegrass can be maintained between 15 and 45 cm, but significant losses can occur in carbon assimilation when the canopies are kept at 15 cm.

A cana-de-açúcar do ponto de vista socioeconômico e do agronegócio é atualmente uma das culturas mais importantes e em ascensão em regiões dos trópicos e subtrópicos do mundo pela sua produção de biomassa e seu potencial como biocombustível. Para expandir o seu cultivo é necessário uma série de estudos, sobretudo no que se refere ao levantamento de características ecofisiológicas e agroclimáticas envolvidas na produção. A carência de estudos, juntamente com a baixa diversidade genética dos genótipos utilizados nos programas de melhoramento, limita a oferta de variedades adaptadas com alto potencial de rendimento. Desde a revolução verde, é reconhecido o papel da nutrição mineral no aumento da produtividade das culturas. Notadamente, a carência de nitrogênio é um dos principais fatores limitantes da produtividade canavieira. Assim, os objetivos gerais desta tese visam contribuir para a compreensão dos mecanismos de regulação da nutrição nitrogenada (eficiência no uso do nitrogênio), a partir dos processos envolvidos no transporte e redução do nitrato e seus efeitos no balanço carbono - nitrogênio, nas fases iniciais de desenvolvimento da cana-deaçúcar. Para isto foi feito um estudo nutricional nas variedades RB83-5089 e SP80- 3280 por até 60 dias, num sistema hidropônico. Foi utilizada a solução de Hoagland e Arnon (1950) modificada como base nutricional na qual foram adicionadas doses baixas (0.05; 0.1; 0.25; 0.5 mM) e altas (1.0; 2.5; 5.0; 10.0; 15.0 e 25.0 mM) de nitrato para medir os efeitos bioquímicos e fisiológicos na atividade da nitrato redutase em folhas e raízes. Foram utilizados como parâmetros o índice de massa e massa seca da parte aérea e raízes, o conteúdo e a razão clorofila \"a\" e \"b\", a taxa de assimilação fotossintética, a condutância estomática e a transpiração. Os resultados mostraram que a variedade SP80-3280 foi mais responsiva às aplicações de baixas e altas doses de nitrato e, de forma geral, a atividade da nitrato redutase não apresentou limitação na mobilização de nitrato via xilema e se confirmou que a cinética do processo foi dependente da dose fornecida para as duas variedades. Nas análises dos teores de clorofila \"a\", as duas variedades foram responsivas ao aumento das doses de N, entretanto, os teores de clorofila \"b\" foram direta e inversamente proporcionais às doses de N nas variedades SP80-3280 e RB83-5089, respectivamente. A análise de índice de massa junto com a massa seca permitiu estabelecer que não houveram diferenças significativas entre estas variedades no acúmulo de matéria seca. / The sugarcane from the standpoint of socioeconomic and agribusiness is currently one of the most important crops in the tropics and subtropics areas of the world and it is in rising growth for its production of biomass and potential as biofuel. In order to expand the cultivation it is necessary a series of studies, especially with regard to agroclimatical ecophysiological characteristics involved in the production. The lack of studies, along with low genetic diversity of the genotypes used in breeding programs, limits the supply of adapted varieties with high yield potential. Since the green revolution, it is recognized the importance of nutrition to increase crop productivity. Notably, the deficiency of nitrogen is one of the main limiting factors affecting sugarcane yield. Thus, the overall objectives of this thesis aim to contribute to understand the regulatory mechanisms of nitrogen nutrition (nitrogen use efficiency), by the processes involved in the transport, nitrate reduction and its effects on the carbon - nitrogen balance, in early stages of development of sugarcane. To this, a nutritional study was prepared using sugarcane varieties RB83-5089 and SP80-3280 for 60 days in a hydroponic system. It was used Hoagland and Arnon (1950) modified solution as the nutritional basis on which was added low (0.05, 0.1, 0.25; 0.5 mM) and high (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 25.0 mM) doses of nitrate to measure the biochemical and physiological effects on the activity of nitrate reductase in leaves and roots. The parameters analysed were, the index of mass and dry weight of shoots and roots, chlorophyll \"a\" and \"b\" content and its ratio, photosynthetic assimilation rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration. The results showed that the variety SP80-3280 was more responsive to low and high levels of nitrate and, in general, the activity of nitrate reductase showed no limitation in the mobility of nitrate via xylem and it confirmed that the kinetics of the process was dependent on the doses provided to the two varieties. In the analysis of chlorophyll \"a\" content, the two varieties were responsive to the increase of N doses. However, the level of chlorophyll \"b\" was directly and inversely proportional to N rates in SP80- 3280 and RB83-5089, respectively. The analysis of mass index with dry weight allowed establishing that there were no significant differences between these varieties regarding to dry tissue accumulation.

L'expression du génome plastidial, un des trois génomes (nucléaire, mitochondrial et plastidial) qui coexistent dans les cellules végétales, est assurée par trois ARN polymérases. Deux NEP (Nuclear-Encoded RNA Polymerase) transcrivent la plupart des gènes de ménage tandis que la PEP (Plastid-Encoded RNA Polymerase) transcrit principalement les gènes liés à la fonction photosynthétique en s'associant à des facteurs de transcription d'origine nucléaire (facteurs sigma) importés dans le plaste. De précédents travaux dans l'équipe ont montré que, contrairement aux observations généralement admises, les trois ARN polymérases sont nécessaires pour assurer une germination efficace des graines d'Arabidopsis. L'objectif de notre travail est de comprendre comment ces enzymes ont été mises en place au cours de la formation de la graine. Pour cela, nous avons analysé l'expression de l'appareil transcriptionnel et du transcriptome plastidial durant les trois phases de formation de la graine d'Arabidopsis thaliana, c'est à dire l'embryogenèse, la maturation (phase photosynthétique) et la dessiccation. L'expression globale du transcriptome plastidial montre que les changements quantitatifs des transcrits sont les plus élevés pour les transcrits des gènes liés à la fonction photosynthétique. Ils sont très fortement exprimés pendant la phase de la maturation et diminuent ensuite, comme leurs protéines correspondantes. Nous observons également une forte accumulation des protéines codant les NEP et les sous unités de la PEP pendant la période de maturation des graines, suivie d'une forte diminution pendant la dessiccation. Cependant, les ARNm correspondants augmentent pendant la dessiccation. Le stockage de ces ARNm codant l'appareil transcriptionnel constitue une étape cruciale pour l'efficacité de la germination de la graine. La quantité de matériel biologique disponible pour ces études étant très limitée, nous avons développé une nouvelle technique de détection des ADNc sur lame de quartz, utilisant la microscopie TIRF. Cette méthode augmente la résolution (elle permet la détection de molécules uniques) et diminue considérablement la quantité de matériel nécessaire à l'hybridation. Finalement, nous avons analysé les conditions sous lesquelles se déroule la photosynthèse embryonnaire. Ces études ont montré que la photosynthèse dans l'embryon se déroule dans un environnement particulier, hypoxique, et sous un éclairement enrichi en longueurs d'onde vertes. Cependant, la structure et le fonctionnement de l'appareil photosynthétique sont semblables à ceux d'une feuille. Nous avons également montré que l'étape transitoire de la photosynthèse embryonnaire est indispensable à la vigueur germinative des graines. Les résultats obtenus lors de ce travail apportent de nouvelles informations sur le fonctionnement de la transcription plastidiale au cours de la formation de la graine. L'importance de l'accumulation d'ARNm, de certaines protéines ainsi que celle de la photosynthèse embryonnaire dans la vigueur germinative ont été soulignées. Ces données permettent de comprendre comment l'efficacité de la germination est conditionnée par la phase de formation de la graine. / Transcription of the plastid genome, one of the three genomes (nuclear, mitochondrial and plastidial) that co-exist in the plant cell, is performed by three ARN polymerases. Two NEPs (Nucleus-Encoded Plastid RNA polymerases) transcribe mainly housekeeping genes and one PEP (plastid-encoded RNA polymerase) transcribes principally photosynthesis related genes. PEP needs transcription factors of the sigma type that are nucleus-encoded. We have previously shown that all three RNA polymerases are present in dry seeds and are necessary for efficient germination. These findings raised the question of how theses RNA polymerases come into the dry seeds and what is the importance of plastid gene expression during seed formation. To answer this question my work consisted in the characterization of plastid gene expression profiles and the expression of the components of the plastid transcriptional machinery during the three phases of seed formation, i. e. embryogenesis, maturation (embryonic photosynthesis) and desiccation. The analysis of global plastid transcriptome patterns shows that mRNAs encoding proteins engaged in photosynthesis show the highest quantitative changes during seed formation. Highest mRNA levels are observed during maturation. During desiccation, photosynthesis related mRNA levels as well as the levels of the corresponding proteins strongly decrease. Concerning the expression of NEP and PEP components, we observe also a peak of protein accumulation during maturation that is followed by a strong diminution of the protein levels. On the other hand, the corresponding mRNAs increase continuously during desiccation. This means that these mRNAs accumulate without being translated. We conclude that the storage of mRNAs coding components of the plastid transcriptional machinery in dry seeds is important for efficient germination. Regarding the limited amount of biological material that is available for these types of studies, we have developed a new method for cDNA analyses on microchips that utilises quartz plates and TIRF microscopy. In this way we can visualise single molecules and the amount of necessary material is considerable diminished. Finally, we have also partially characterized the conditions under which embryonic photosynthesis is performed. These studies show that photosynthesis occurs in a special environment that is characterized by hypoxic atmosphere and green enriched light. However, the structure and functioning of the photosynthetic apparatus in seed chloroplasts seems to be very similar to that of chloroplasts in green leaves. This opens the question of how seed photosynthesis can be efficient. On the other hand we have shown that embryonic photosynthesis is indeed very important for efficient germination. Altogether, results provide new information on the functioning of plastid photosynthesis and transcription during seed formation. They underline the importance of the accumulation of NEP and PEP coding mRNAs in dry seeds. We suggest that embryonic photosynthesis influences seed germination not only by providing reserve compounds but also by producing NEP and PEP proteins. Although the majority of these proteins are degraded during desiccation, traces persist and are stored in dry seeds thus assuring immediate transcription of the plastid genome during imbibition/stratification. Our results explain how efficiency of germination is conditioned during seed formation.

Resumo: Artemisia annua L. (Asteraceae) é uma planta herbácea altamente aromática, nativa da Ásia e aclimatada no Brasil. As folhas são fonte abundante de artemisinina, uma lactona sesquiterpênica que, conjuntamente aos seus derivados semi-sintéticos, apresentam ação efetiva contra as cepas resistentes das espécies de Plasmodium causadoras da malária. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram identificar o mecanismo fotossintético e avaliar o efeito de diferentes condições de temperatura e fotoperíodo no crescimento e desenvolvimento do acesso CPQBA 2/39x1V de A. annua. Para identificar o mecanismo fotossintético foram realizados experimentos para determinar composição dos isótopos do carbono (d‰13C) e a anatomia foliar associada a testes histoquímicos. Para avaliar o efeito da temperatura e fotoperíodo no crescimento e desenvolvimento de A. annua foram realizados dois experimentos em câmaras fotoperiódicas (o primeiro com temperaturas médias máx. de 37ºC e mín. de 19ºC e o segundo com máx. de 29ºC e mín. de 13ºC) e um experimento com 6 épocas de plantio em campo no município de Pato Branco-PR (26º11' S, 52º36' W e 760 m de altitude), sul do Brasil. Um último experimento realizado, foi a aplicação exógena de artemisinina em plantas de A. annua para verificar o papel da molécula na indução do florescimento. Como resultados, A. annua apresentou uma d‰13C - 31.76 l 0.07, valor típico de espécies com mecanismo fotossintético C3, que apresentam em média valores de d‰13C - 28. Os estudos da anatomia foliar e testes histoquímicos confirmaram os resultados encontrados para a d‰13C, onde, a despeito da existência de células parenquimáticas formando um anel ao redor do feixe vascular, estas não apresentaram cloroplastos e amido, confirmando ser A. annua uma espécie de mecanismo... / Abstract: Leaves of Artemisia annua L. are a plentiful source of artemisinin, a drug with proven effectiveness against malaria. One of the objectives of this work was to identify the photosynthetic type of A. annua through studies of the carbon isotope composition (d‰13C) and the leaf anatomy. We also verified the growth and development of the CPQBA 2/39x1V accession under moist subtropical climate. Two experiments were carried out in greenhouse using photoperiodic chambers. The plants were submitted to photoperiods of 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 h, in two natural conditions of temperature: spring/summer (maximum of 37ºC and minimum of 19ºC) and autumn/winter (maximum of 29ºC and minimum of 13ºC). Another experiment with different planting dates at field was carried out in Pato Branco, PR (26º11' S, 52º36' W and 760 m), Southern part of Brazil. The last experiment was the application of artemisinin (0, 500, 5000, and 10000 mg L-1) in A. annua plants to verify the role of the molecule on the flowering induction. A. annua presented a d‰13C - 31.76 l 0.07, what characterizes it as typical species with a C3 photosynthetic mechanism, with an average of d‰13C- 28, while C4 species possess an average of d‰13C - 14. The study of A. annua leaf anatomy confirms the results of d‰13C, where, in spite of the existence of parenchymatic cells forming a different sheath surrounding of the vascular tissue, these cells do not have chloroplast or starch. These features do not describe the Kranz anatomy typical of C4 species. The application of artemisinin did not induce the flowering of A. annua at any of the concentrations used. The results suggest that the accumulation of the artemisinin in the pre-flowering and flowering phases in A. annua is not the physiological signal of floral induction in this species... / Orientador: Fernando Broetto / Coorientador: Rita Maria Moraes / Banca: João Domingos Rodrigues / Banca: Lin Chau Ming / Banca: Cícero Deschamps / Banca: Vera Lúcia Garcia Rehder / Doutor

Orientador: Ciro Antonio Rosolem / Banca: João Domingues Rodrigues / Banca: Luiz Henrique Carvalho / Resumo: O experimento foi conduzido de janeiro a abril de 2007 sob condições de casa de vegetação. O objetivo foi avaliar o comportamento de cultivares de algodão submetidas a doses de cloreto de mepiquat e, ainda, verificar se a resposta está ligada ao ciclo ou arquitetura da cultivar. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de seis cultivares com comportamento de crescimento e diferentes ciclos produtivos (FiberMax 966, FiberMax 977, DeltaPenta, DeltaOpal, FMT 501 e FMT 701), bem como, a utilização de quatro doses do regulador vegetal a base de cloreto de mepiquat (PIX®): 7,5; 15,0 e 22,5 g ha-1 de i.a e a testemunha sem aplicação do produto. Foram utilizados vasos de 12 litros de capacidade, sendo cultivadas duas plantas por vaso. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados com quatro repetições em esquema fatorial 4 doses x 6 cultivares. As avaliações constituíram da: altura de plantas, número de ramos reprodutivos, massa de matéria fresca e massa de matéria seca, retenção de estruturas reprodutivas e área foliar. Para cada cultivar, foi calculada a relação entre taxa de crescimento em altura e concentração do regulador. Os resultados mostraram que o crescimento das plantas de algodoeiro em altura é diminuído com a aplicação foliar de cloreto de mepiquat, sendo maior a redução de altura, quanto maior a quantidade de regulador aplicada. Existe diferença entre as cultivares estudadas quanto à sensibilidade ao regulador, de modo que as mais precoces são mais sensíveis. Para a mesma dose aplicada, a concentração de regulador vegetal na planta é diferente, pois a quantidade de produto depositada na folha de cada cultivar é também diferente. O regulador não afetou a taxa de assimilação de CO2 das cultivares de algodão estudadas. / Abstract: The experiment was conducted between January and April 2007 under greenhouse conditions. The objective to evaluate the behavior of cotton cultivars submitted to the doses of Mepiquat Chloride, and also to find if the answer is linked to the cycle or architecture of cultivar. The treatments were constituted of six cultivars of different behaviour about its growth and cycle (FiberMax 966, FiberMax 977, DeltaPenta, DeltaOpal, FMT 501 e FMT 701); and four doses of the plant growth regulator, mepiquat chloride (PIX®): 7,5, 15,0, 22,5 g ha-1 and a control (0,0 g ha-1). Plots of 12 liters of capacity were used with two plants per plot. The experimental design used was the completely randomized with four replications in outline factorial 4 doses x 6 cultivars. The parameters analyzed were: height of plants, number of reproductive branches, weight of dry matter, retention of reproductive structures, and leaf area. Also, it was calculated for each cultivar, the relationship among growth rate in height and concentration of the regulator. The results showed that the growth of cotton plants in height is reduced by application of mepiquat chloride, and the height reduction is larger, as larger the amount of plant growth regulator applied. There is difference among the cultivars studied for sensitivity to the plant growth regulator, so that the earliest cultivars are more sensitive. In the same applied dose, the concentration of plant growth regulator in the plant is different because the amount of product deposited on the left of each cultivar is different too. The mepiquat chloride didn't affect the assimilation rate of CO2 to the cotton cultivars studied. / Mestre

Resumo: A broca-da-cana, Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.) e a cigarrinha-das-raízes Mahanarva fimbriolata (Stål) são consideradas importantes pragas na cultura da canade- açúcar. Os danos causados por esses insetos são bem conhecidos. No entanto, essa informação foi obtida para cada praga separadamente. As respostas da planta a essas duas pragas combinadas, assim como seus efeitos na qualidade da matériaprima não estão completamente estabelecidas. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento da planta de cana-de-açúcar e qualidade da matéria-prima sob a infestação desses dois estressores bióticos. O experimento foi realizado em 2007/08, sob condições de campo, com seis tratamentos: alta e baixa infestação da broca-dacana, infestação de ninfas de cigarrinha-das-raízes, infestação de ninfas de cigarrinhadas- raízes + broca-da-cana conjuntamente e testemunhas (plantas não infestadas). As parcelas foram compostas por 4 m2 de plantas de cana-de-açúcar protegidas e nãoprotegidas. Os níveis de fotossíntese das plantas atacadas pela broca-da-cana e pelas ninfas de cigarrinha-das-raízes foram significativamente menores do que as plantas não infestadas. Houve redução na produtividade de colmos e quantidade de sacarose nas plantas atacadas pelos insetos, que resultaram na menor produtividade de sacarose. A infestação dos dois insetos conjuntamente apresentou menor tendência de produtividade de sacarose. Verificou-se tendência de maior acúmulo do total de compostos fenólicos no caldo da cana das plantas infestadas. / Abstract: The sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.) and spittlebug Mahanarva fimbriolata (Stål) are considered important sugarcane pests. Damage caused by these insect are well known. However, this information was obtained for each species separately. The plant responses to these two pests combined as well the effect on the sugarcane quality are not completely understood yet. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the behavior of sugarcane plant and quality of raw material under the infestation of these two biotic stressors. The experiment was carried out during 2007/08 season, under field conditions, and comprised six treatments: high and low sugarcane borer infestations, spittle bug nymph infestation, both sugarcane borer and spittlebug infestations combined and controls (uninfested plants). The plots were composed of 4-m2 caged and uncaged sugarcane plants. The photosynthetic levels of sugarcane plants attacked by sugarcane borer and sugarcane borer + spittlebug nymphs were significantly lower than uninfested plants. There was a reduction in the sugarcane stalk yield when plants were attacked by the insects, which resulted in lower sucrose yield. The infestation of both pests combined led to reduced apparent sucrose content. It was verified also a higher content of phenolic compounds in infested-plants cane juice. / Orientador: Odair Aparecido Fernandes / Coorientadora: Márcia Justino Rossini Mutton / Coorientador: Leon George Higley / Banca: Enrico de Beni Arrigoni / Banca: Sérgio Antonio de Bortoli. / Mestre