Actividad repelente e insecticida de cuatro aceites esenciales de plantas recolectadas en Chocó-Colombia contra Tribolium castaneum / Repellent and insecticidal activity of four essential oils from plants recolleted in Chocó-Colombia against Tribolium castaneum

This study aimed to determine the repellent and insecticidal activity of four essential oils (EOs) from plants collected in the Chocó rain forest, Colombia, against T. castaneum . Conventional hydrodistillation was used to obtain the EOs. The repellent and insecticidal activities were evaluated by the preference area and gas dispersion methods, espectively. Statistical differences (p<0.05) were determined by applying a student's t-test. EOs of Siparuna guianensis, S. conica, Piper marginatum, and Nectandra acutifolia showed excellent repellent properties as the main findings, highlighting S. conicaEO with 84% repellency (1-hµL/cm2), while P. marginatum showed to be bioactive to the dose of 500 µL/mL (72 h), inducing mortality of 100% of the exposed population. In conclusion, the results evidenced the repellent properties of the EOs evaluated against T. castaneum , which allows us to conclude that these plant species are potential natural sources producing bio-repellents that contribute to the integrated control of T. castaneum.

Se evaluaron cuatro aceites esenciales (AEs) de plantas recolectadas en la selva pluvial del Chocó, Colombia, para determinar su actividad repelente e insecticida contra T. castaneum. Los AEs fueron obtenidos por hidrodestilación convencional. Las actividades repelentes e insecticidas se evaluaron por los métodos de área de preferencia y dispersión de gas, respectivamente. Las diferencias significativas (p<0,05) fueron determinadas aplicando una prueba t de student. Los AEs de Siparuna guianensis, S. conica, Piper marginatum y Nectandra acutifolia mostraron excelentes propiedades repelentes, destacando el AE de S. conicacon un 84% de repelencia (1µL/cm2), mientras que el AE de P. marginatummostró ser bioactivo a la dosis de 500 µL/mL (72 h) al inducir la mortalidad del 100% de la población expuesta. Se concluye que estas especies de plantas son fuentes naturales potencialmente viables para la producción de biorepelentes que contribuyan en el control integrado de T. castaneum.

Caracterización de un Consorcio Microbiano Metanogénico de una Mina de Carbón en la Cuenca de Bogotá / Characterization of a Methanogenic Microbial Consortium from a Coal Mine in Bogotá Basin

RESUMEN En el trabajo se estudió un consorcio microbiano metanogénico de una mina de carbón de la cuenca de Bogotá en Colombia. Se establecieron cultivos de enriquecimiento de carbón ex situ para el crecimiento y la producción de gas de novo. El gas biogénico producido por los cultivos se analizó mediante cromatografía de gases con detectores de ionización de llama y conductividad térmica. Los cultivos se utilizaron para aislar estirpes microbianas y para generar bibliotecas del gene 16S rARN empleando de cebadores de bacteria y de arquea. El análisis de cromatografía de gases mostró producción de metano a 37 oC, pero no a 60 oC, donde el CO2 fue el componente principal del gas biogénico. El análisis de la secuencia del gen 16S rARN de estirpes microbianos y de las bibliotecas de clones, estableció que el consorcio microbiano metanogénico estuvo formado por especies de bacterias de los géneros Bacillus y Gracilibacter más la arquea del género Methanothermobacter. El consorcio microbiano metanogénico identificado es potencialmente responsable de la generación de gas biogénico en la mina de carbón La Ciscuda. Los resultados sugirieron que los metanógenos de este consorcio producían metano por vía hidrogenotrófica o de reducción de CO2.

ABSTRACT The work studied the methanogenic microbial consortium in a coal mine from the Bogotá basin in Colombia. Ex situ coal-enrichment cultures were established for in vitro growth and de novo gas production. Biogenic gas produced by cultures was analyzed by gas chromatography using thermal conductivity and flame ionization detectors. Cultures were used to isolate microbial specimens and to generate 16S rRNA gene libraries employing bacterial and archaeal primer sets. The gas chromatographic analysis showed methane production at 37 oC, but not at 60 oC, where CO2 was the major component of the biogenic gas. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis of microbial isolates and clone libraries established that the methanogenic microbial consortium was formed by bacteria species from Bacillus and Gracilibacter genera plus archaea from the Methanothermobacter genus. This meth-anogenic microbial consortium was potentially responsible for biogenic gas generation in La Ciscuda coal mine. The results suggested that these methanogens produced methane by hydrogenotrophic or CO2 reduction pathways.

Actividad repelente e insecticida de dos aceites esenciales de Piper del Nor-Occidente del Pacífico Colombiano / Repellent and insecticidal activity of two Piper essential oils from the Nor-West Colombian Pacific

Introducción: El uso inapropiado de plaguicidas en alimentos y la resistencia que las plagas han adquirido frente a estos, han traído consigo problemas de salud pública; con el objetivo de disminuir el empleo de estas sustancias nocivas, se han realizado estudios biológicos con productos vegetales (aceites esenciales) los cuales han demostrado ser eficaces para controlar diferentes organismos. Objetivos: Esta investigación tiene como objetivo determinar la actividad repelente e insécticida de dos aceites esenciales del género Piper, procedentes del nor-occidente del Pacifico colombiano, sobre insectos que atacan productos almacenados. Materiales y métodos: Los aceites esenciales fueron extraidos por hidrodestilación convencional, la actividad repelente se trabajó aplicando el metodo de área de preferencia para la actividad insecticida por dispersión de gas, donde se obtuvieron los porcentajes de repelencia y mortalidad. Resultados: Se encontró a Piper obrutum como el aceite esencial más activo, presentando a la concentración de 1µL/cm2 porcentaje de repelencia de 85% y registrando una mortalidad del 25% a la concentración de 500µL/mL y 72h de exposición; mientras que, Piper littorale a este tiempo de exposición, produce una tasa de mortalidad mayor, con un porcentaje de 40%, pero la repelencia para esta especie fue menor con el 70% de los insectos repelidos. Conclusiones: Se infiere de esta investigación, que los aceites esenciales de Piper obrutum y Piper littorale poseen mejores propiedades repelentes que insecticidas y pueden emplearse en el desarrollo de repelentes, que se apliquen en el control integrado de plagas de productos almacenados.

Introduction: The inappropriate use of pesticides in food and the resistance that pests have acquired against them, have brought about public health problems; in order to reduce the use of these harmful substances, biological studies have been carried out with plant products (essential oils) which have proven to be effective in controlling different organisms. Objectives: The objective of this research is to determine the repellent and insecticidal activity of two essential oils of the Piper genus, from the northwest of the Colombian Pacific, on insects that attack stored products. Materials and methods: The essential oils were extracted by conventional hydrodistillation, the repellent activity was worked by applying the area of preference method and the insecticidal activity by gas dispersion, where the percentages of repellency and mortality were obtained. Results: Piper obrutum was found to be the most active essential oil, presenting at a concentration of 1µL/cm2 a repellency percentage of 85% and registering a mortality of 25% at a concentration of 500µL/mL and 72h of exposure; whereas, Piper littorale at this exposure time, produces a higher mortality rate, with a percentage of 40%, but the repellency for this species was lower with 70% of the repelled insects. Conclusions: It is inferred from this research, that the essential oils of Piper obrutum and Piper littorale have better repellent properties than insecticidal and can be used in the development of repellents, which are applied in the integrated pest control of stored products.

Hallazgo de diclofenaco en un producto fitoterapéutico a base de caléndula comercializado en Colombia / Finding diclofenac in a marigold-based phytotherapeutic product marketed in Colombia

Resumen Introducción: la consulta de un particular que trajo un producto fitoterapéutico a base de caléndula cuyo consumo le causó fuertes reacciones adversas, originó esta investigación sobre la composición de este producto. Objetivo: caracterizar la composición química de muestras de lotes diferentes de un producto comercial denominado fitoterapéutico a base de caléndula (Calendula officinalis) (PFC) comercializado en Colombia. Metodología: se analizaron tabletas de ocho cajas del PFC de cuatro lotes diferentes de producción (2017 y 2018). Se llevó a cabo el análisis de espacio de cabeza (HS) de tabletas por microextracción en fase sólida (SPME), con una fibra PDMS/DVB (65 µm), expuesta al HS de la muestra durante 30 min a 50 °C. Las fracciones volátiles se analizaron por cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC/MS). Los extractos de tabletas obtenidos con mezcla de metanol:agua (1:1, v/v) se analizaron por cromatografía líquida (LC) de alta (HPLC) y ultra-alta eficiencia (UHPLC), con detectores de arreglo de diodos (DAD) y espectrometría de masas de alta resolución (HRMS), respectivamente; la cuantificación de diclofenaco se hizo por calibración con patrón externo y por adición de estándar. Los espectros de masas de baja y alta resolución y patrones de fragmentación de las sustancias detectadas se estudiaron, usando GC/HRMS y LC/HRMS-Orbitrap. Resultados: en tabletas analizadas por HSSPME, se encontraron monoterpenoides y sesquiterpenoides de origen vegetal, ftalatos, residuos de solventes (2-cloroetanol, etilenglicol) y sustancias químicas intermediarias en la síntesis de diclofenaco (2,6-dicloroanilina y 2,6-cloro-N-fenil-bencenamina). En los cromatogramas, obtenidos por GC/MS de los extractos de tabletas obtenidos con diclorometano, se detectaron diclofenaco, sus impurezas A, B y C, los ésteres de diclofenaco y algunas otras impurezas. Diclofenaco en cantidad ca. 40 mg (7-8%) se cuantificó por HPLC en tabletas (> 70 analizadas) escogidas al azar de ocho cajas del PFC, adquirido en el mercado local de Bucaramanga (Colombia). Conclusión: en cada tableta analizada se determinaron alrededor de 40 mg del compuesto sintético diclofenaco (sustancia no declarada en la etiqueta del producto) y en ninguna se detectaron ésteres de los triterpenoides oleanano o faradiol, constituyentes del extracto de caléndula que poseen actividad antiinflamatoria; se encontraron algunos flavonoides comunes a muchas plantas, en cantidades mil veces menores que la de diclofenaco.

Abstract Introduction: The consultation of a person who brought a marigold-based phytotherapeutic product whose consumption caused strong adverse reactions, originated this investigation of the composition of this product. Objective: to characterize the chemical composition of samples of different lots of a commercial product called calendula-based phytotherapeutic product (Calendula officinalis) (PFC) commercialized in Colombia. Methodology: Tablets of eight packs of the phytotherapeutic product from four different production batches (2017 and 2018) were analyzed. Headspace analysis (HS) of tablets by solid phase microextraction (SPME) was carried out with a PDMS/ DVB fiber (65 µm), exposed to the HS of the sample for 30 min at 50 °C. Volatile fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Tablet extracts obtained with methanol:water mixture (1:1, v / v) were analyzed by liquid chromatography (LC) of high (HPLC) and ultra-high performance (UHPLC) with diode array (DAD) and high-resolution mass spectrometric (HRMS) detectors, respectively; diclofenac was quantified by external calibration and standard addition. Low- and high-resolution mass spectra (MS, HRMS) and fragmentation patterns of detected substances were studied, using GC/HRTOF-MS and LC/HRMS-Orbitrap. Results: in tablets analyzed by HS-SPME, monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids of plant origin, phthalates, solvent residues (2-chloroethanol, ethylene glycol) and intermediary chemicals in diclofenac synthesis (2,6-dichloroaniline and 2,6- chloro-N-phenyl-benzenamine) were found. In the chromatograms (GC/MS) of the extracts of tablets obtained with organic solvent (dichloromethane), diclofenac, its impurities A, B and C, diclofenac esters, and some other compounds were detected; diclofenac quantification by HPLC found amounts of ca. 40 mg (7 - 8%) in tablets (> 70 analyzed) chosen at random from eight packs of the calendula-based phytotherapeutic product, purchased in the local market in Bucaramanga (Colombia). Conclusion: each analyzed tablet contained around 40 mg of the synthetic compound diclofenac (substance not declared in the product's label) and no tablet contained detectable amounts of esters of the triterpenoids oleanane or faradiol, which are calendula extract constituents that possess antiinflammatory activity; a few flavonoids that are common to many plants were found in amounts a thousand times smaller than that of diclofenac.

Modern Fungicides: Mechanisms of Action, Fungal Resistance and Phytotoxic Effects

The establishment of safe and effective methods for controlling fungal diseases is an urgent issue in agriculture and forestry. Fungicide research has provided a wide range of products with new modes of action. Extensive use of these compounds in agriculture enhances public anxiety due to the harmful potential for the environment and human health. Moreover, the phytotoxic effects of some fungicides are already recognized but still little is known about their influence on the photosynthetic apparatus and plant physiology. This review provides an understanding of the mechanisms of action of fungicides, mechanisms of fungicide resistance development, and the phenomenon of phytotoxicity.

Evaluation of the insecticidal activity of essential oils and their mixtures against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract The search for new insecticides to control dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika vectors has gained relevance in the past decades. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the larvicidal action of essential oils (EOs) from Thymus vulgaris, Salvia officinalis, Lippia origanoides, Eucalyptus globulus, Cymbopogon nardus, Cymbopogon martinii, Lippia alba, Pelargonium graveolens, Turnera diffusa, and Swinglea glutinosa on Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti. The EOs were extracted by microwave-assisted hydrodistillation and characterized by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The chemical components of the EOs were identified by linear retention indices and mass spectra. Lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC95) were determined by probit analysis using larvae of Ae. aegypti between the third and the fourth instars. All EOs achieved larvicidal activity at LC50 values lower than 115 mg/L. The lowest LC50 value (45.73 mg/L) corresponded to T. vulgaris EO, whereas C. martinii EO showed the highest LC50 (LC50 = 114.65 mg/L). Some EO mixtures showed lower LC50 than oils used individually, such as the mixtures of L. origanoides + S. glutinosa (LC50 = 38.40 mg/L), T. diffusa + S. glutinosa (LC50 = 63.71 mg/L), and L. alba + S. glutinosa (LC50 = 48.87 mg/L). The main compounds of the EOs with highest larvicidal activity were thymol (42%) and p-cymene (26.4%).

Prevalencia y factores asociados a sobrepeso y obesidad infantil en escuelas públicas y privadas de Tegucigalpa, Honduras / Prevalence of pediatric overweight and obesity and associated factors in public and private schools in Tegucigalpa, Honduras

Objective: To compare the factors associated with overweight and obesity in children from public and private schools in the Kennedy colony, Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Materials and methods. We studied 3S7 schoolchildren between 6 and 11 years old. A survey was used to assess nutrition, food frequency, eating habits and practices, and physical activity. Students with overweight and obesity secondary to a basic pathology were excluded. The information was analyzed using Epi-info. We conducted a univariate and multivariate analyzes. Results: We found that 18% of the students were obese and 18% were overweight. Students from private schools were more frequently overweight and obese (46.3%) than those in public schools (33.2%). Fifty-three percent of public school students and 36.3% of private schools consumed homemade snacks. Over half (S8.S%) of public school students and 68.7% of private schools reported doing some kind of outdoor physical activity. Conclusion: Childhood overweight and obesity are prevalent health problems. Private school students, in our sample, were more overweight and obese than public school students. Physical activity performed by school children in public and private schools was adequate in most cases.

Objetivo: Comparar los factores asociados de sobrepeso y obesidad en los niños de escuelas públicas y privadas de la colonia Kennedy, Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Materiales y Métodos. Se estudiaron 357 escolares entre 6 y 11 años. Se realizó evaluación nutricional, frecuencia de consumo, hábitos y prácticas alimentarias y actividad física mediante encuesta. Se excluyeron escolares con sobrepeso y obesidad secundaria a una patología de base. La información fue analizada con el programa Epi-info, seguido de análisis variado y multivariado. Resultados: Se encontró un 18% de escolares con obesidad y 18% con sobrepeso. Los niños de escuelas privadas presentaron mayor frecuencia de sobrepeso y obesidad (46,3%) que los de escuelas públicas (33,2%). Más de la mitad (53,4%) de los estudiantes de escuelas públicas y 36,3% de las escuelas privadas consumieron consumen merienda elaborada en casa. Un 58,5% de estudiantes de escuelas públicas y un 68,7% de centros privados, realizaron algún tipo de actividad física al aire libre. Conclusión: El sobrepeso y la obesidad infantil son un problema de salud prevalente. En nuestra muestra, los estudiantes de escuelas privadas tenían mayor sobrepeso y obesidad que los de escuelas públicas. La actividad física realizada por los escolares de escuelas públicas y privadas fue adecuada en la mayoría de los casos.

The Journal Impact Factor: Moving Toward an Alternative and Combined Scientometric Approach

The Journal Impact Factor (JIF) is a single citation metric, which is widely employed for ranking journals and choosing target journals, but is also misused as the proxy of the quality of individual articles and academic achievements of authors. This article analyzes Scopus-based publication activity on the JIF and overviews some of the numerous misuses of the JIF, global initiatives to overcome the ‘obsession’ with impact factors, and emerging strategies to revise the concept of the scholarly impact. The growing number of articles on the JIF, most of which are in English, reflects interest of experts in journal editing and scientometrics toward its uses, misuses, and options to overcome related problems. Solely displaying values of the JIFs on the journal websites is criticized by experts as these average metrics do not reflect skewness of citation distribution of individual articles. Emerging strategies suggest to complement the JIFs with citation plots and alternative metrics, reflecting uses of individual articles in terms of downloads and distribution of related information through social media and networking platforms. It is also proposed to revise the original formula of the JIF calculation and embrace the concept of the impact and importance of individual articles. The latter is largely dependent on ethical soundness of the journal instructions, proper editing and structuring of articles, efforts to promote related information through social media, and endorsements of professional societies.

Structural Changes of the Urinary Bladder After Chronic Complete Spinal Cord Injury in Minipigs / 대한배뇨장애요실금학회지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine the structural changes of the urinary bladder after chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) in minipigs with the primary focus on the analysis of urinary bladder wall proteins and their quantitative distribution. METHODS: Seven Göttingen minipigs (adult, female) underwent a complete spinal cord transection. Follow-up time was 4 months during which the bladder was drained by frequent single catheterisation and data from the bladder diary and daily urine strip test were collected. Samples from the urinary bladder were taken, fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and stained for histological analyses. Bladder wall thickness, single tissue quantities/distributions, types I and III collagen, and elastin quantifications were performed. Comparisons to healthy urinary bladder tissue of age-matched minipigs were performed for statistical analyses. RESULTS: No urinary tract infections were observed in our SCI minipig collective during follow-up. A trend towards a reduction in bladder volumes and an increase in incontinence periods were seen. The bladder wall thickness significantly increased after chronic SCI. Furthermore, bladder wall composition was severely altered by a significant loss of smooth muscle tissue and a significant increase in connective tissue. Elastic fibres were reduced in number and altered in their structural appearance after SCI. Type I collagen was significantly increased, while type III collagen was significantly decreased after SCI. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic SCI highlighted that the urinary bladder wall undergoes fibrotic events with reduced contractile and elastic properties due to changes of the bladder wall protein composition. These changes show in detail how SCI severely influences the urinary bladder wall composition and depicts the similarities between minipigs and humans.

Predatory Publishing Is a Threat to Non-Mainstream Science

This article highlights the issue of wasteful publishing practices that primarily affect non-mainstream science countries and rapidly growing academic disciplines. Numerous start-up open access publishers with soft or nonexistent quality checks and huge commercial interests have created a global crisis in the publishing market. Their publishing practices have been thoroughly examined, leading to the blacklisting of many journals by Jeffrey Beall. However, it appears that some subscription journals are also falling short of adhering to the international recommendations of global editorial associations. Unethical editing agencies that promote their services in non-mainstream science countries create more problems for inexperienced authors. It is suggested to regularly monitor the quality of already indexed journals and upgrade criteria of covering new sources by the Emerging Sources Citation Index (Web of Science), Scopus, and specialist bibliographic databases. Regional awareness campaigns to inform stakeholders of science communication about the importance of ethical writing, transparency of editing services, and permanent archiving can be also helpful for eradicating unethical publishing practices.

Evaluación de la estrategia contra el sobrepeso y obesidad en establecimientos de consumo escolar en planteles de educación básica de Villahermosa, Tabasco / Evaluation of the strategy against obesity and overweight in school consumption establishments of basic education in Villahermosa, Tabasco / Avaliaçâo da estratégia contra o peso excessivo e a obseidade em estabelecimentos escolares do ensino básico em Villahermosa, Tabasco / Évaluation de la stratégie contre le surpoids et l'obésité dans les établissements de consommation scolaire des ecoles elementaires de Villahermosa, Tabasco

Resumen: Objetivo Evaluar el cumplimiento de la "Estrategia contra el sobrepeso y la obesidad" en Establecimientos de consumo escolar de planteles de educación básica de Villahermosa, Tabasco. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo transversal; se empleó muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia, se estudiaron 15 escuelas primarias públicas; la obtención de datos se realizó por un Cuadro de autoevaluación validado, que contempla características físicas y de higiene de los establecimientos (fijos o móviles), con observación de los alimentos y bebidas que se venden o distribuyen, y examina la preparación, manejo y venta de alimentos. Resultados: El 60 % de los establecimientos fijos o móviles carece de espacios seguros. Ofrecen 60 % más productos procesados, que alimentos preparados artesanalmente; además, 60 % de los alimentos preparados artesanalmente no son productos permitidos, siendo la técnica culinaria más empleada la fritura; el 73.3 % expenden refrescos embotellados. El 100 % de los establecimientos evaluados no desempeñan el lavado de manos del personal. Discusión: En México, la epidemia de obesidad es un problema en todos los grupos de edad y experimenta una velocidad de aumento que no ha sido registrada en ningún otro país. Internacionalmente, existe evidencia para establecer la contribución de esta enfermedad al desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas y su carga a los sistemas de atención a la salud. Conclusión: Los resultados revelan que los establecimientos de consumo escolar de educación básica de Villahermosa, Tabasco, no cumplen con los lineamientos del programa en la prevención o disminución del sobrepeso u obesidad.

Abstract: Objective: To assess the compliance of the "Strategy against overweight and obesity" in school establishments consumption of basic education schools in Villahermosa, Tabasco. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study; non probabilistic for convenience sampling was used, 15 public elementary schools were studied; data collection was performed by a panel of validated self-assessment, which includes physical and hygiene in establishments (fixed or mobile), with observation of food and beverages sold or distributed characteristics and examine the preparation, handling and sale food. Results: 60% of fixed or mobile establishments lack of safe spaces. They offer 60% more processed products, foods prepared by hand; in addition, 60% of prepared food products by hand are not allowed, most of them use frying cooking technique; 73.3% retailed bottled soft drinks. 100% of establishments evaluated do not play with hand washing staff. Discussion: In Mexico, the obesity epidemic is a problem in all age groups and experience a speed increase has not been registered in any other country. Internationally, there is evidence to establish the contribution of this disease to chronic disease and its burden on care systems health. Conclusions: The results show that establishments of basic school consumption in Villahermosa, Tabasco, do not carry out with the program guidelines for the prevention or reduction of overweight or obese.

Resumo: Objetivo: Avaliar o cumprimento da "Estratégia contra o sobrepeso e a obesidade" nos estabelecimentos escolares do Ensino Básico em Villahermosa, Tabasco. Materiais e métodos: Foi usado um estudo transversal e uma amostra não probabilística. Foram estudadas 15 escolas públicas e a recolha de dados foi realizada usando um Índice de Auto-Avaliação validado, que incluiu caraterísticas físicas e a higiene existentes nos estabelecimentos (fixo ou móvel), bem como a observação de alimentos e bebidas vendidos ou distribuídos e confirmação da preparação, manipulação e venda de alimentos. Results: Em 60% dos estabelecimentos fixos ou móveis não existem espaços seguros. Eles oferecem mais de 60% de produtos processados, em vez de alimentos preparados manualmente; Além disso, 60% dos produtos de alimentos preparados manualmente não são produtos legalmente permitidos e a maioria deles são confecionados usando o "fritar"; 73,3% das bebidas correspondem a refrigerantes. Em 100% dos estabelecimentos avaliados os técnicos não costumam proceder à lavagem das mãos. Discussao: No México, a epidemia de obesidade é um problema em todas as faixas etárias e assiste-se a um aumento significativo que não foi registrado em qualquer outro país. Internacionalmente, esta doença tem fortes contributos em várias doenças crônicas e é elevada a sua carga nos sistemas de saúde. Conclusao: Os resultados mostram que os estabelecimentos de Ensino Básico existentes em Villahermosa, Tabasco, não seguem as diretrizes do programa para a prevenção ou redução de excesso de peso ou obesidade.

Résumé Objectif: Évaluer l'application de la «Stratégie de lutte contre le surpoids et l'obésité" dans les établissements de consommation scolaire des écoles élémentaires de Villahermosa, Tabasco. Matériel et méthodes: Une étude observationnelle, descriptive et transversale a été menée avec un échantillonnage de convenance sélectionné dans quinze écoles primaires publiques. La collecte des données a été réalisée avec un formulaire d'auto-évaluation validé incluant le registre de caractéristiques physiques et d'hygiène des établissements, fixes ou mobiles, basé sur l'observation des aliments et des boissons vendues ou distribués, et l'examen de la préparation, la manipulation et la vente alimentaire. Résultats: 60% des établissements, fixes ou mobiles, manquent d'espaces sûrs. Ces établissements offrent 60% plus de produits alimentaires transformés que d'aliments préparés artisanalement. De plus, 60% des produits alimentaires préparés artisanalement ne sont pas autorisés. La technique de cuisson la plus utilisée est la friture. 73,3% des établissements vendent des boissons gazeuses. Dans 100% des établissements évalués, le personnel ne respecte pas les règles du lavage de mains. Discussion: Au Mexique, l'épidémie d'obésité est un problème dans tous les groupes d'âge qui s'aggrave à une vitesse jamais enregistrée dans un autre pays. Sur le plan international, il existe des preuves de la contribution de l'obésité aux maladies chroniques et de son impact sur les systèmes de santé. Conclusion: Les résultats montrent que les établissements de consommation scolaire des écoles élémentaires de Villahermosa, Tabasco, ne respectent pas les lignes directrices du programme pour la prévention ou la réduction de la surcharge pondérale ou de l'obésité.

Propuesta para seleccionar aceites esenciales de plantas de Colombia para investigación con base en su citotoxicidad / Proposal to select essential oils from colombian plants for research based on its cytoxicity

Antecedentes: Conocer la tendencia de productos de plantas a causar toxicidad en humanos es parte de la investigación orientada al descubrimiento de un medicamento natural. Las pruebas en animales son relativamente costosas, de bajo rendimiento, asociadas a sufrimiento del animal y diferencias relativas a la especie hacen difícil inferir efectos en humanos. Las pruebas en célula viva son recomendadas. Objetivo: Estudiar la tendencia a toxicidad de aceites esenciales (AE) de plantas de Colombia usando un ensayo basado en célula. Método: Los AE de 18 especies distintas de plantas fueron estudiados. Se usó el ensayo del MTT en seis líneas celulares de humano y animal derivadas de tejido normal y canceroso, las cuales se trataron antes y después de la proliferación. Los AE se organizaron en el orden de una agrupación jerárquica con base en los valores de CC50 y la sumatoria de la jerarquía ponderada en el panel de células (∑JPi) se usó como indicador de similitud. Cuanto mayor fue el valor de ∑JPi menor fue la tendencia a toxicidad. Resultados: Los AE con valores de CC50>200 µg/mL en al menos cinco condiciones experimentales presentaron valores de ∑JPi > 6,0 sugiriendo baja tendencia a toxicidad y fueron en orden descendente (∑JPi en paréntesis): Calycolpus moritzianus (O.Berg) Burret (9,7) < Psidium sartorianum (O. Berg) Nied. (8,9) < Wedelia calycina (6,5) < Lippia micromera Schauer (6,2) ≈ Piper haltonii. (6,2). AE con valores de CC50 < 100 µg/mL en cuatro o más condiciones experimentales presentaron valores ∑JPi < 4.0 sugiriendo alta tendencia a toxicidad y fueron en orden ascendente: Tagetes caracasana Kunth (2,7 ­ 2,8) > Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob. (3,0) > Ageratina aff. popayanensis (Hieron.) R.M.King & H.Rob. (3,1) > Lantana colombiana López-Pal. (3,3) >Turnera disffusa. (3,4). AE de Tagetes caracasana presentó actividad antiproliferante (CI50: 42,2 y 47,9 µg/mL) sobre células humanas de cáncer de cérvix. Conclusión: El abordaje metodológico permitió identificar AE con baja y alta tendencia a toxicidad. Los resultados podrían tener valor para predecir actividad in vivo y priorizar muestras para futuras investigaciones.

Background: Part of the research process focused on discovering natural medicines is the study of products derived from plants, which may be toxic to humans. Animal-based test methods can be relatively expensive, low-throughput and associated with animal suffering, and differences in animal species may difficult to infer human health effects. Methods based on living cells are recommended. Objectives: To study the tendency to toxicity of essential oils (EOs) from plants of Colombia using a cell-based assay. Methods: EOs from different species (n = 18) of plants were included. The MTT assay was used on six human and animal cell lines derived from normal and cancerous organs, which were treated before and after proliferation. The EOs were arranged in the order of a hierarchical clustering based on their CC50 values, and the sum of weighted hierarchy across cell panel (∑iWH) was used as the similarity metric. The greater the value of ∑iWH lesser tendency to toxicity. Results: The EOs, which showed CC50 values > 200 µg/mL in at least five experimental conditions presented ∑iWH values > 5,0 suggesting lower tendency to toxicity, and they were in descending order (∑iWH in parentheses), as follows: Calycolpus moritzianus (O.Berg) Burret (9,7) < Psidium sartorianum (O. Berg) Nied. 1893 (8,9) < Wedelia calcycina (6,5) < Lippia micromera Schauer (6,2) ≈ Piper haltonii Jacq. (6,2) The EOs, which showed CC50 < 100 µg/mL in four or more experimental conditions presented ∑iWH values < 4.0 suggesting higher tendency to toxicity, and they were in ascending order, as follows: Tagetes caracasana Kunth (2,7 ­ 2,8) > Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob. (3,0) > Ageratina aff. popayanensis (Hieron.) R.M.King & H.Rob. (3,1) > Lantana colombiana López-Pal. (3,3) > Turnera diffusa (3,4). EO from Tagetes caracasana Kunth presented relevant antiproliferative activity (CI50: < 50.0 µg/mL) on cells from human cervical carcinoma. Conclusions: The methodological approach allows identifying EOs with lower and higher tendency to toxicity. Data generated may be valuable for predicting in vivo toxicity and for prioritizing samples for further studies.

Composition, anti-quorum sensing and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from Lippia alba

Many Gram-negative pathogens have the ability to produce N-acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) as signal molecules for quorum sensing (QS). This cell-cell communication system allows them to coordinate gene expression and regulate virulence. Strategies to inhibit QS are promising for the control of infectious diseases or antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) and antibacterial potential of five essential oils isolated from Lippia alba on the Tn-5 mutant of Chromobacterium violaceum CV026, and on the growth of the gram-positive bacteria S. aureus ATCC 25923. The anti-QS activity was detected through the inhibition of the QS-controlled violacein pigment production by the sensor bacteria. Results showed that two essential oils from L. alba, one containing the greatest geranial:neral and the other the highest limonene:carvone concentrations, were the most effective QS inhibitors. Both oils also had small effects on cell growth. Moreover, the geranial/neral chemotype oil also produced the maximum zone of growth inhibition against S. aureus ATCC 25923. These data suggest essential oils from L. alba have promising properties as QS modulators, and present antibacterial activity on S. aureus.

Efecto del aceite esencial de Eucalyptus citriodora sobre el metabolismo energético mitocondrial / Essential oil Eucalyptus citriodora effect on mitochondrial energy metabolism / Efeito do óleo essencial de Eucalyptus citriodora sobre o metabolismo energético mitocondrial

Con el fin de contribuir al conocimiento de su actividad a nivel celular, se evaluó el mecanismo de acción del aceite esencial de Eucalyptus citriodora (Fam. Myrtaceae) sobre la bioenergética mitocondrial, su efecto sobre la velocidad de consumo de oxígeno de mitocondrias energizadas (estados 3 y 4) y su coeficiente de control respiratorio (CCR). Además, se analizó la actividad de los complejos de la cadena respiratoria usando técnicas espectrofotométricas. Los resultados obtenidos indican que el aceite esencial de E. citriodora aumenta la velocidad del consumo de oxígeno en los estados 3 y 4, disminuye el CCR, desacopla la fosforilación oxidativa, aumenta la actividad de la citocromo c oxidasa y aumenta la actividad ATPasa en mitocondrias íntegras, a partir de la concentración de 10 µg/mL. Estos resultados sugieren que el aceite esencial o sus metabolitos afectan el funcionamiento normal del transporte de electrones de la cadena respiratoria y la síntesis de ATP.

In order to contribute to the knowledge of its activity at the cellular level, the mechanism of action of the essential oil of Eucalyptus citriodora (Fam. Myrtaceae) on mitochondrial bioenergetics, the rate of oxygen consumption of energized mitochondria (states was assessed 3 and 4), and respiratory control ratio (CCR) were evaluated. The activity of the respiratory chain complexes was analyzed using spectrophotometric techniques. The results indicate that the essential oil of E. citriodora increases the rate of oxygen consumption in states 3 and 4, reduces the CCR, uncouples oxidative phosphorylation, increases the activity of cytochrome c oxidase, and increases the ATPase activity in mitochondria intact at concentrations ≥ 10 mg/mL. These results suggest that the essential oil or its metabolites affect the normal operation of the electron transport in the respiratory chain and ATP synthesis.

Com o fim de contribuir ao conhecimento da sua atividade a nível celular, foi avaliado o mecanismo de ação do óleo essencial de Eucalyptus citriodora (Fam. Myrtaceae) sobre a bioenergética mitocondrial, o efeito sobre a taxa de consumo de oxigênio de mitocôndrias energizadas (estados 3 e 4) e o coeficiente de controle respiratório (CCR). Usando técnicas espectrofotométricas, foi analisada a atividade dos complexos da cadeia respiratória. Os resultados obtidos indicam que o óleo essencial de E. citriodora aumenta a velocidade do consumo de oxigênio nos estados 3 e 4, reduz o CCR, desacopla a fosforilação oxidativa, aumenta a atividade da citocromo c oxidase e aumenta a atividade ATPase em mitocôndrias intatas, a partir da concentração de 10 µg / mL. Estes resultados sugerem que o óleo essencial ou seus metabolitos afetam o funcionamento normal do transporte de elétrons na cadeia respiratória e na síntese de ATP.

Chemical composition and bioactivity of Piper auritum and P. multiplinervium essential oils against the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) / Composición química y bioactividad de los aceites esenciales de Piper auritum y P. multiplinervium contra el escarabajo rojo de la harina, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)

Stored grain insects have shown resistance to synthetic insecticides, fact that has promoted the use of vegetable species for integrated pest management. Piper auritum and P. multiplinervium are two plants from the Piperaceae family present in the department of Chocó, Colombia, one of the most important hot spots of biodiversity in the world. This study was conducted to determine the repellent activity and toxicity of essential oils (EOs) isolated from these plants against Tribolium castaneum, using the area preference and contact toxicity methods, respectively. P. auritum EO presented greater repellency than P. multiplinervium, the first showed 100 percent lethality at minimum tested exposure period (24 h) whereas the second reached 16 percent at 72 h. EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. P. auritum major components were safrole (93.2 percent) and miristicine (4.3 percent), whereas for P. multiplinervium were beta-elemene (9.0 percent), trans-beta-caryophyllene (5.3 percent) and caryophyllene oxide (4.1 percent). It is speculated that the repellent effect of P. auritum may be related to its safrole content, a known repellent. These results evidenced Piper species could be used for development of repellents against T. castaneum.

Los insectos de los granos almacenados han mostrado resistencia a los insecticidas sintéticos, hecho que ha promovido el uso de especies vegetales para el manejo integrado de plagas. Piper auritum y P. multiplinervium son dos plantas de la familia Piperaceae presentes en el departamento del Chocó, Colombia, uno de los puntos de biodiversidad más importantes del mundo. En este estudio fue determinada la actividad repelente y toxicidad de los aceites esenciales (AE) aislados de estas plantas contra Tribolium castaneum, utilizando el método de área de preferencia y toxicidad por contacto, respectivamente. El AE de P. auritum presentó mayor repelencia que el de P. multiplinervium, el primero mostró 100 percent de letalidad al menor tiempo de exposición (24 h), mientras que el segundo alcanzó el 16 percent a las 72 h. Los AEs fueron analizados por cromatografía de gases-espectrometría de masas. Los componentes principales de P. auritum fueron safrol (93.2 percent) y miristicina (4.3 percent), mientras que para P. multiplinervium fueron beta-elemene (9.0 percent), trans-beta-cariofileno (5.3 percent) y óxido de cariofileno (4.1 percent). Se cree que el efecto repelente de P. auritum puede estar relacionado con su contenido de safrol, un repelente conocido. Estos resultados evidencian que las especies de Piper podrían ser utilizadas para el desarrollo de repelentes contra T. castaneum.

Issues in solid-organ transplantation in children: translational research from bench to bedside

In this review, we identify important challenges facing physicians responsible for renal and cardiac transplantation in children based on a review of the contemporary medical literature. Regarding pediatric renal transplantation, we discuss the challenge of antibody-mediated rejection, focusing on both acute and chronic antibody-mediated rejection. We review new diagnostic approaches to antibody-mediated rejection, such as panel-reactive antibodies, donor-specific cross-matching, antibody assays, risk assessment and diagnosis of antibody-mediated rejection, the pathology of antibody-mediated rejection, the issue of ABO incompatibility in renal transplantation, new therapies for antibody-mediated rejection, inhibiting of residual antibodies, the suppression or depletion of B-cells, genetic approaches to treating acute antibody-mediated rejection, and identifying future translational research directions in kidney transplantation in children. Regarding pediatric cardiac transplantation, we discuss the mechanisms of cardiac transplant rejection, including the role of endomyocardial biopsy in detecting graft rejection and the role of biomarkers in detecting cardiac graft rejection, including biomarkers of inflammation, cardiomyocyte injury, or stress. We review cardiac allograft vasculopathy. We also address the role of genetic analyses, including genome-wide association studies, gene expression profiling using entities such as AlloMap®, and adenosine triphosphate release as a measure of immune function using the Cylex® ImmuKnow™ cell function assay. Finally, we identify future translational research directions in heart transplantation in children.

Contenido de compuestos fenólicos y capacidad antioxidante de extractos de mora (Rubus glaucus Benth) obtenidos bajo diferentes condiciones / Content of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of blackberry (Rubus glaucus Benth) extracts obtained under different conditions

Antecedentes: La mora contiene compuestos fenólicos que contribuyen a su capacidad antioxidante. El método más común para aislar estas sustancias es la extracción con solventes, que puede asistirse con ultrasonido para aumentar el contenido de analitos extraídos. Objetivos: Determinar las condiciones de tipo y concentración de solvente en agua, y de tiempo de extracción asistida con ultrasonido, con las cuales se obtiene el mayor contenido de compuestos fenólicos y el valor de capacidad antioxidante más alto en extractos de mora andina (Rubus glaucus Benth). Comparar la capacidad antioxidante de los extractos de mora con la de antioxidantes de referencia como el di-terc-butilhidroxitolueno (BHT) y el a-tocoferol. Métodos: Se hicieron tres diseños de experimentos de dos factores con tres niveles cada uno. Las variables fueron la concentración de acetona, etanol o metanol en agua y el tiempo de extracción asistida con ultrasonido. Los observables-respuesta fueron el contenido total de compuestos fenólicos, que se determinó utilizando el reactivo de Folin-Ciocalteu, y la capacidad antioxidante, determinada mediante el ensayo ORAC (capacidad de absorción de radicales de oxígeno). Se calculó el coeficiente de correlación entre las dos variables de respuesta. Se comparó la capacidad antioxidante de los extractos de mora, obtenidos bajo las condiciones inferidas como óptimas, con las del BHT y del a-tocoferol. Resultados: Los extractos adquiridos con soluciones acuosas de acetona al 31% (v/v), asistiendo la extracción con ultrasonido durante 100 min, mostraron los mayores contenidos de compuestos fenólicos (30 ± 1 mg ácido gálico/g mora seca), y los valores de capacidad antioxidante más altos (273 ± 6 mmol Trolox®/g mora seca). El coeficiente de correlación entre las dos variables de respuesta fue 0,92. Los extractos de mora presentaron mejor capacidad antioxidante que el BHT y el a-tocoferol. Conclusiones: Bajo las condiciones óptimas de extracción, con las soluciones acuosas de acetona se obtuvieron el mayor contenido de compuestos fenólicos y el valor de capacidad antioxidante más alto. Se observó una relación lineal entre las dos variables de respuesta. Los extractos de mora, obtenidos bajo las mejores condiciones halladas, presentaron mayor capacidad antioxidante en comparación con la de los compuestos de referencia analizados.

Chemical composition and antigenotoxic properties of Lippia alba essential oils

The present work evaluated the chemical composition and the DNA protective effect of the essential oils (EOs) from Lippia alba against bleomycin-induced genotoxicity. EO constituents were determined by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometric (GC-MS) analysis. The major compounds encountered being citral (33 percent geranial and 25 percent neral), geraniol (7 percent) and trans-β-caryophyllene (7 percent) for L. alba specimen COL512077, and carvone (38 percent), limonene (33 percent) and bicyclosesquiphellandrene (8 percent) for the other, COL512078. The genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity of EO and the compounds citral, carvone and limonene, were assayed using the SOS Chromotest in Escherichia coli. The EOs were not genotoxic in the SOS chromotest, but one of the major compound (limonene) showed genotoxicity at doses between 97 and 1549 mM. Both EOs protected bacterial cells against bleomycin-induced genotoxicity. Antigenotoxicity in the two L. alba chemotypes was related to the major compounds, citral and carvone, respectively. The results were discussed in relation to the chemopreventive potential of L. alba EOs and its major compounds.

Actividad repelente de los aceites esenciales de Lippia origanoides, Citrus sinensis, y Cymbopogon nardus cultivadas en Colombia frente a Tribolium castaneum, Herbst / Repellent activity of the essential oils from Lippia origanoides, Citrus sinensis, and Cymbopogon nardus cultivated in Colombia against Tribolium castaneum, Herbst

Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la actividad repelente de tres aceites esenciales (AE) y un repelente comercial frente a la especie Tribolium castaneum, Herbst, una de las principales plagas de cereales y productos almacenados. Materiales y métodos: La actividad repelente fue medida utilizando el método de área de preferencia, además fue determinada la concentración de aceite esencial capaz de repeler el 50% de los insectos (CR50). La prueba T pareada fue utilizada para encontrar diferencias significativas entre el número de insectos presentes en las áreas tratadas y no tratadas. Resultados: Todos los AEs mostraron actividad repelente contra T. castaneum, y la magnitud del efecto fue dependiente de la concentración utilizada. Los AE con mayor repelencia fueron los extraídos de Lippia origanoides y Citrus sinensis, mientras que el aceite con menor actividad fue el de Cymbopogon nardus. Discusión: Aunque en términos de CR50 el AE de C. nardus mostró actividad repelente inferior a la de L. origanoides y C. sinensis, el primero presentó una eficacia superior a la del producto comercial IR3535. Estos AEs han mostrado propiedades repelentes frente a organismos diferentes a T. castaneum, lo cual sugiere que su espectro de acción es amplio. Conclusiones: Los resultados han demostrado que los AEs de la flora colombiana son una fuente importante de repelentes, por lo que podrían ser usados para el control biológico de insectos.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the repellent activity of three essential oils (EO), and a commercial repellent against species Tribolium castaneum Herbst, a major pest of grain and stored products. Materials and methods: The repellent activity was measured using the area of preference method, as well as the concentration of essential oil that is capable of repelling 50% of the insects (RC50). A paired T test was used to find significant differences between the number of insects present in the treated and untreated areas. Results: All EOs showed repellent activity against T. castaneum, and the magnitude of the effect was dose-dependent. The AE with the highest repellence were those extracted from Lippia origanoides and Citrus sinensis, whereas the one with the lowest activity was that from Cymbopogon nardus. Discussion: Although in terms of RC50 the EO from C. nardus showed repellent activity lower than those registered for L. origanoides and C. sinensis, the first had a greater efficacy than that showed by the commercial product IR3535. These Eos have shown repellent properties against organism different from T. Castaneum, suggesting that they have a wide spectrum of action. Conclusions: The results have shown that EOs from Colombian flora are an important source of repellents, which could be used for biological control of insects.

Composición y capacidad antioxidante in-vitro de aceites esenciales ricos en Timol, Carvacrol, trans-Anetol o Estragol / Composition and in-vitro antioxidant capacity of essential oils rich in Thymol, Carvacrol, trans-Anethole or Estragole

Se determinó por cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC-MS) la composición química de aceites esenciales (AE), aislados por hidrodestilación asistida por la radiación de microondas (MWHD), de las especies vegetales aromáticas Artemisia dracunculus, Foeniculum vulgare, Illicium verum, Lippia micromera, Lippia origanoides, Ocimum sp., Plectranthus amboinicus, Tagetes filifolia, Tagetes lucida y Thymus vulgaris. Los valores de capacidades antioxidantes in vitro de estos aceites esenciales, se obtuvieron usando los ensayos de decoloración del catión-radical ABTS+• (metodologías convencional y con dilución en microplacas) y la oxidación del ácido linoleico, inducida por O2 y Fe+2. El potencial inhibitorio de ABTS+• fue más alto para los aceites esenciales que contienen fenoles (carvacrol y timol), que para los aceites esenciales ricos en éteres (trans-anetol y estragol). La actividad antioxidante mediante el ensayo ABTS+• modificado en orden decreciente fue: AE Plectranthus amboinicus ≥ AE Lippia origanoides >> AE Thymus vulgaris > AE Lippia micromera >>> AE Tagetes lucida (flores) > AE Ocimum sp. > AE Tagetes lucida (hojas) > AE Illicium verum > AE Tagetes filifolia (Cenivam) > AE Foeniculum vulgare.

Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to determine the chemical composition of essential oils (EO) isolated by microwave-radiation-assisted hydrodistillation (MWHD) of Artemisia dracunculus, Foeniculum vulgare, Illicium verum, Lippia micromera, Lippia origanoides, Ocimum sp., Plectranthus amboinicus, Tagetes filifolia, Tagetes lucida and Thymus vulgaris. In vitro antioxidant capacity values using ABTS+• discoloration assays (traditional and microplate methods) and the linoleic acid oxidation (with O2 and Fe+2) of these essential oils were obtained. Essential oils with phenols (carvacrol and thymol) high content showed higher total antioxidant capacity values than the essential oils rich in ether compounds (estragole and trans-anethole). The antioxidant capacity using by modified ABTS+• assay in decreasing order was as follows: EO Plectranthus amboinicus ≥ EO Lippia origanoides >> EO Thymus vulgaris > EO Lippia micromera >>> EO Tagetes lucida (flowers) > EO Ocimum sp. > EO Tagetes lucida (leaf) > EO Illicium verum > EO Tagetes filifolia (Cenivam) > EO Foeniculum vulgare.