Efeitos Agudos do Nitrato Dietético na Pressão Central e Desempenho Cardíaco em Hipertensos: Estudo Cruzado, Randomizado e Placebo-Controlado / Acute Effects of Dietary Nitrate on Central Pressure and Endothelial Function in Hypertensive Patients: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study

Resumo Fundamento O nitrato inorgânico (NO3-) da dieta pode fornecer substrato fisiológico para reduzir o nitrito (NO2-) a óxido nítrico (NO) independente do endotélio. Estudos sugerem que o NO3- inorgânico tem efeitos benéficos na saúde cardiovascular. Objetivos Este estudo avaliou os efeitos agudos de 500 mL de suco de beterraba rico em nitrato (SB; contendo 11,5mmol NO3-) na pressão arterial e na função endotelial em pacientes hipertensos tratados. Métodos Estudo cruzado, randomizado, controlado por placebo foi realizado em pacientes hipertensos tratados (n=37; mulheres=62%) que foram submetidos à avaliação clínica e nutricional, avaliação dos parâmetros hemodinâmicos centrais e reatividade microvascular. O nível de significância foi p<0,05. Resultados A média de idade foi 59±7 anos e das pressões sistólica e diastólica foi de 142±10/83±9 mmHg. Houve aumento significativo na taxa de viabilidade subendocárdica (RVSE; 149±25 vs. 165±30%, p<0,001) e redução na duração da ejeção (DE; 37±4 vs. 34±4%, p<0,001) na fase beterraba, mas nenhuma diferença significativa de RVSE na fase controle. O % de aumento na perfusão (155 vs. 159%, p=0,042) cresceu significativamente na fase beterraba, o que não foi observado na fase controle. Na fase beterraba, a alteração da RVSE apresentou correlação significativa com a alteração da área sob a curva de hiperemia reativa pós-oclusiva (ASC-HRPO) (r=0,45, p=0,012). A mudança na DE mostrou uma correlação significativa com pico de perfusão pós-intervenção (r=-0,37, p=0,031) e ASC-HRPO (r=-0,36, p=0,046). Conclusão A ingestão aguda de SB por pacientes hipertensos resultou em melhora da função endotelial, que foi associada à maior viabilidade subendocárdica e desempenho na contração miocárdica.

Abstract Background The diet's inorganic nitrate (NO3-) may provide a physiological substrate for reducing nitrate (NO2-) to NO independent of the endothelium. Studies suggest that inorganic NO3- has beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. Objective This study evaluated the acute effects of 500 mL nitrate-rich beetroot juice (BRJ; containing 11.5mmol NO3-) on blood pressure and endothelial function in treated hypertensive patients. Methods A randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study was conducted in treated hypertensive patients (n=37; women=62%) who underwent clinical and nutritional evaluation and assessment of central hemodynamic parameters and microvascular reactivity. The significance level was p<0.05. Results The mean age was 59±7 years, and mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 142±10/83±9mmHg. There was a significant increase in the subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR; 149±25 vs. 165±30%, p<0.001) and reduction in ejection duration (ED; 37±4 vs. 34±4%, p<0.001) in the beetroot phase but no significant SEVR difference in the control phase. The % increase in perfusion (155 vs. 159 %, p=0.042) was significantly increased in the beetroot phase, which was not observed in the control phase. In the beetroot phase, the change in SEVR showed a significant correlation with the change in the area under the curve of post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (AUC-PORH) (r=0.45, p=0.012). The change in ED showed a significant correlation with the post-intervention perfusion peak (r=-0.37, p=0.031) and AUC-PORH (r=-0.36, p=0.046). Conclusions The acute ingestion of BRJ by hypertensive patients resulted in an improvement of endothelial function, which was associated with higher subendocardial viability and performance in myocardial contraction.

Beet Root Derived Phytochemicals against Escherichia coli Causing Diarrhea

Phytochemicals from Beet Root (Beta vulgaris) plant extract are traditionally used to cure Diarrhea. It is caused by Escherichia coli. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that caffeic acid can effectively deactivate the Shikimate dehydrogenase enzyme thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

Betanin from beetroot enhanced survival of Caenorhabditis elegans infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

@#Aims: Betanin is a red plant pigment belonging to the group called betalain. This present study aimed at investigating the effect betanin from beetroot (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) as a potential anti-infective agent against methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) using a Caenorhabditis elegans infection model. Methodology and results: The minimum inhibitory concentration of betanin against MRSA strain ATCC 33591 was determined to establish the non-inhibitory concentration. The minimum inhibitory concentration of betanin against MRSA was > 20 mg/mL. C. elegans were then infected with MRSA and treated with betanin at different concentrations (100, 200, 300 and 400 µg/mL). Betanin at 200 µg/mL significantly improved worm survival following infection whereby the mean time to death was extended about 76 h upon treatment. Intestinal colonization by MRSA of worms exposed to betanin extract was similar to non-betanin-treated infected worms. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: The enhanced survival of MRSA-infected worms upon betanin treatment was not a result of the activation of the host antimicrobial mechanism. Betanin from beetroot can be potentially used as a natural anti-infective agent as a mean to reduce antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus or used in combination with established antimicrobials to increase their effectiveness.

Effect of Black Raisins (Vitis vinifera) on Aluminum Chloride Induced Alzheimer's Disease in Male Albino Rat

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common dementia causes especially in elders. Black raisins (Vitis vinifera) have memoryenhancing effects. This study was designed to investigate the effect of oral administration of black raisins (V. vinifera) on aluminumchloride (AlCl3) induced AD in male albino rats. Forty adult male Albino rats were equally and randomly divided into five groups, 8 rats ineach. The rats of the first group received a vehicle and served as controls. The animals of the second group received raisin (5 g per rat/day)orally for 8 weeks. The rats in the third group were treated with AlCl3 (model of AD) (100 mg/kg BW/day) for 8 weeks. The animals of thefourth group were treated with AlCl3 (100 mg/kg BW/day) and raisin. The animals of the fifth group received rivastigmine (0.3 mg/kgBW/day) and AlCl3 (100 mg/kg BW/day) orally for 8 weeks. After eight weeks, the behavioral test (maze learning test) was performed on allrats to assess learning and memory. Moreover, acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity, some neurotransmitter levels [dopamine (DA),norepinephrine (NE), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)], and oxidative stress [reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD),oxidase glutathione (GSSG), and lipid peroxidation (LPO)] were estimated in the cortex and hippocampus homogenate. Thehistopathological studies were also made in the hippocampus area. The results showed that aluminum exposure significantly decreased thelearning and memory in the maze-learning test as revealed by increase in elapsed time and error number in the maze. Significant increaseof cortex and hippocampus homogenate levels of AchE and LPO, but a significant decrease in DA, NE, GABA, GSH, GSSG, and SOD wereobserved in rats subjected to AlCl3. Histopathological evaluations of hippocampus sections of rats treated with AlCl3 showed severealterations including the increase of degenerated cells with structural damage. The treatment of rats with raisin or rivastigmine for 8 weeksshowed a pronounced attenuation on the damage caused by AlCl3 associated with the improvement of behavioral, biochemical, andhistopathological alterations. This study suggested that chronic oral administration of black raisin had neuroprotective effects andimproved learning and memory in AD animal models. These actions were done due to the antioxidant constituents of raisin.

Prophylactic Impact of Beta vulgaris L in Ameliorating Cyclosporine AInduced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Background: Hepatotoxicity induced by Cyclosporine A (CsA) remains one of the major side effects. The aim of this studywas to determine the protective effects of beet root (Beta Vulgaris L) extract and silymarin against hepatotoxicity induced byCyclosporine A in rats. Methods: Sixty male albino rats, were divided into 6 groups (n=10). Group I control group. GroupII CsA-treated and received (50mg/kg weight, orally). Group III received (500mg/kg b.wt) beet root extract orally. Group IVreceived beet root extract and CsA as in group II and III. Group V was received (100 mg/kg b.wt) silymarin orally. Group VIreceived CsA and silymarin as in group II and V. Serum levels of (ALT, AST, ALP) and bilirubin (Total and Direct) weremeasured. Oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidant status, damage to DNA, apoptosis and inflammatory mediators weremeasured in the tissues of the liver. Result: CsA administration significantly increased serum levels of the liver enzymesALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin. In addition, significant increase in MDA, Nitrite, 8-OHdG, caspase3, NF-κB, TNF-α andsignificant decrease of GST in liver tissues was noticed. Furthermore, histopathological changes occurred in CsA treatedrats exhibited disruption of normal liver architecture, congested central vein, vacuolated cytoplasm and inflammatory cellsinfiltration. Co-administration of beet root extract or silymarin +CsA ameliorated all these parameters. Conclusion: Thepresent study suggests that beet root extract and silymarin have beneficial effect in reducing hepatotoxicity induced by CsAvia decreasing oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, apoptosis and repairing the histopathological changes

Biochar in sugar beet production and nutrition / Biochar na produção e nutrição da beterraba

ABSTRACT: The biomass pyrolysis process may be an alternative for the agricultural use of sewage sludge. This study aimed to evaluate the use of of biochars from mixture of sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse (BB, 1:1 relationship sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse) on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) production and nutrition. A greenhouse experiment was conducted with five application rates of BB: 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% (v/v), and two additional treatments, biochar from sewage sludge (BS, application rate 5% (v/v)) and conventional treatment (CV) that received lime and mineral fertilizer. The treated soils were incubated for 45 days, after which, seedlings were cultivated for 55 days. Biochar produce from sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse is an alternative technology to reduce the potential for contamination of sewage sludge and to incorporate more stable carbon forms in the soil. Although, biochar has increased soil fertility, fine roots and nutrient uptake efficiency by sugar beet plants, total dry matter yield was significantly lower than that obtained in conventional treatment.

RESUMO: O processo de pirólise da biomassa pode ser uma alternativa para o uso agrícola de lodo de esgoto. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar o uso de biochar produzido a partir da mistura de lodo de esgoto e bagaço de cana (BB, 1:1 relação lodo de esgoto e e bagaço de cana) na produção e nutrição de beterraba (Beta vulgaris L.). Conduziu-se um experimento em casa de vegetação com cinco dose de BB: 0, 2,5, 5, 7,5 e 10% v/v, e dois tratamentos adicionais, biochar de lodo de esgoto (BS, 5% v/v) e tratamento convencional (CV) com calagem e fertilizantes minerais. Após 45 dias de incubação dos solos tratados, cultivou-se as plantas por 55 dias. O biochar produzido a partir de lodo de esgoto e bagaço de cana-de-açúcar é uma tecnologia alternativa para reduzir o potencial de contaminação do lodo de esgoto e incorporar formas mais estáveis de carbono ao solo. Embora o biochar tenha aumentado à fertilidade do solo, as raízes finas e a eficiência de absorção de nutrientes pelas plantas de beterraba, a produção de matéria seca total foi significativamente menor que a obtida no tratamento convencional.

Laboratory evidence for the hematopoietic potential of Beta vulgaris leaf and stalk extract in a phenylhydrazine model of anemia

This study was designed to provide laboratory evidence supporting the hematopoietic effect of Beta vulgaris (beet) leaf aqueous extract in phenylhydrazine-induced anemia model in albino rats. Extraction of the leaves/stalks was done by maceration in 30% hydro-ethanol for 48 h. An intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg phenylhydrazine was applied for two consecutive days to develop hemolytic anemia on the 4th day after the 1st injection in 24 of 30 male albino rats. The animals were divided into 5 groups and received the following treatments: standard (ferrous ascorbate + folic acid; 13.5 + 0.135 mg/kg), B. vulgaris extract (100 and 200 mg/kg), or left untreated (normal and diseased controls). Blood samples were taken at 0, 4, 8, and 12 days of the experiment for hematological and clinico-chemical analysis. Beet leaf extract significantly restored the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit in dose- and time-dependent manners. Blood indices have been significantly corrected. Erythropoietin level was maintained at higher levels. Erythrocytic membrane oxidation biomarker (malondialdehyde) level was significantly reduced compared to the anemic untreated group. The extract exhibited potent, concentration (4-512 μg/mL)-dependent antioxidant activity indicated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, with IC50 value of 37.91 μg/mL. Beet leaf extract resulted in detection of flavonoid and phenolic compounds that may underlie its hematinic properties. These findings may indicate B. vulgaris as a good natural source for pharmaceutical preparations with hematopoietic effects and treatment of anemia and/or associated conditions.

Growth, gas exchanges and production of beet CV. katrina under organo-mineral fertilization / Crescimento, trocas gasosas e produção da beterraba CV. Katrina sob adubação organomineral

The beet culture has great economic and food importance in the world, especially with respect to energy generation. In Brazil the culture is still little studied, lacking studies in all stages of production of culture, mainly in the management of fertilization. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organo-mineral fertilization on growth, gas exchanges and production of beet, cv. Katrina. The experiment was conducted under field conditions in the municipality of Pombal-PB, Brazil, from September to December 2015, in a randomized block design. The treatments were arranged in a 4 x 2 factorial scheme and corresponded to four periods of fermentation of the biofertilizer (10, 20, 30 and 40 days) applied in soils with and without mineral fertilization, with four replicates and 18 plants evaluated per plot. Plants were conducted for 70 days after transplanting, in 15-cm-high, 1-m-wide beds. During this period, plant growth, gas exchanges and production components were evaluated. The application of mineral biofertilizer fermented for 20 to 30 days, associated with mineral fertilization with 36 g m-2 of P2O5, 18.0 g m-2 of K2O and 14 g m-2 of N at planting, promoted better performance of growth, gas exchanges and production of beet plants. In the soil without mineral fertilization, it is recommended to use the longest biofertilizer fermentation periods, 30 to 40 days, for beet cultivation.

A cultura da beterraba tem grande importância econômica e alimentar no mundo, especialmente no que diz respeito à geração de energia. No Brasil, a cultura ainda é pouco estudada, faltando estudos em todos os estágios de produção da cultura, principalmente no manejo da adubação. Objetivou-se no presente trabalho, avaliar a adubação organomineral no crescimento, trocas gasosas e produção da beterraba cv. Katrina. O experimento foi conduzido em condições de campo, no município de Pombal, PB, no período de setembro a dezembro de 2015. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso, com tratamentos arranjados em esquema fatorial 4 x 2, relativos a quatro períodos de fermentação do biofertilizante (10, 20, 30 e 40 dias) aplicados em solos com e sem adubação mineral, com quatro repetições e 18 plantas úteis por parcela. As plantas foram conduzidas durante 70 dias após o transplantio, em canteiros de 15 cm de altura, com 1 m de largura. Durante esse período, avaliou-se o crescimento, trocas gasosas e os componentes de produção. A adubação com biofertilizante mineral fermentado no período entre 20 e 30 dias associado à adubação mineral com 36 g m-2 de P2O5, 18,0 g m-2 de K2O e 14 g m-2 de N no plantio, proporcionou melhor desempenho no crescimento, trocas gasosas e produção da beterraba. No solo sem adubação mineral, recomenda-se a utilização dos maiores períodos de fermentação do biofertilizante, 30 a 40 dias, para o cultivo da beterraba.

Evaluación de la actividad antioxidante de las pulpas de Rubus glaucus B, Vaccinium floribundum K y Beta vulgaris L / Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of pulps from Rubus glaucus B., Vaccinium floribundum K. and Beta vulgaris L

Introducción: actualmente se ha demostrado una relación entre el consumo de alimentos con altos niveles de compuestos antioxidantes, los cuales están directamente asociados con la prevención de enfermedades. Objetivos: evaluar la actividad antioxidante de las pulpas Rubus glaucus B, Vaccinium floribundum K y Beta vulgaris L. Métodos: Rubus glaucus Benth variedad Castilla, Vaccinium floribundum K y Beta vulgaris L fueron adquiridas en un mercado local de la ciudad de Cartagena, Bolívar (10°25'25″N 75°31'31″O). La pulpa se obtuvo a partir del fruto (mora y agraz) y raíz (remolacha); y le se determinó pH, Brix, acidez titulable, índice de madurez, humedad, ceniza, grasa, proteínas, fibra cruda, carbohidratos y la actividad antioxidante fue determinada mediante la técnica de actividad antiradicalaria por el método DPPH, asimismo el contenido de fenoles totales se realizó por el método colorimétrico Folin-Ciocalteu. Resultados: los sólidos solubles totales oscilaron entre 5,94 - 10,91 Brix, pH 2,9 - 5,96, ceniza 0,407 - 1,05 g/100 g, humedad 87,263 - 83,95 g/100 g, proteína 0,624 - 1,59 g/100 g, grasa 0,12 - 0,62 g/100 g, fibra cruda 2,107 - 3,637 g/100 g, carbohidratos 10,01 - 14,446 g/100 g para las pulpas de mora, agraz y remolacha. Los resultados de la prueba de actividad antioxidante presentaron valores de IC50 mediante la técnica de DPPH• en el rango de 53,33 - 141,88 µg/mL, lo cual está directamente relacionado con el contenido en fenoles. Conclusiones: por lo tanto, la pulpa de Rubus glaucus Benth variedad Castilla, Vaccinium floribundum K y Beta vulgaris L, son considerados como promisorios para diseñar productos nutracéuticos por su elevada actividad antioxidante(AU)

Introduction: A direct relationship has been proved to exist between consumption of foodstuffs with a high content of antioxidant compounds and disease prevention. Objectives: Evaluate the antioxidant activity of pulps from Rubus glaucus B., Vaccinium floribundum K. and Beta vulgaris L. Methods: Rubus glaucus Benth variety Castile, Vaccinium floribundum K. and Beta vulgaris L. were acquired at a local marketplace in the city of Cartagena, Bolívar (10°25?25?N 75°31?31?W). The pulp was obtained from fruits (Andean raspberry and Andean blueberry) and roots (beet). Determination was conducted of its pH, Brix, titratable acidity, maturation index, humidity, ash, fat, proteins, crude fiber, carbohydrates, and antioxidant activity using the technique of anti-radical activity by the DPPH method. Content of total phenols was determined by the Folin-Ciocaltey colorimetric method. Results: Total soluble solids ranged between 5.94 - 10.91 Brix, pH 2.9 - 5.96, ash 0.407 - 1.05 g / 100 g, humidity 87.263 - 83.95 g / 100 g, protein 0.624 - 1.59 g / 100 g, fat 0.12 - 0.62 g / 100 g, crude fiber 2.107 - 3.637 g / 100 g, carbohydrates 10.01 - 14.446 g / 100 g for pulps from Andean raspberry, Andean blueberry and beet. Antioxidant activity testing using the DPPHo technique obtained CI50 values of 53.33 - 141.88 ?g/ml, directly proportional to phenol content. Conclusions: It is therefore concluded that pulp from Rubus glaucus Benth variety Castile, Vaccinium floribundum K. and Beta vulgaris L., is considered to be promising for the design of nutraceutical products due to its antioxidant activity(AU)

CONTENIDOS DE PLOMO EN ACELGA COMÚN Beta vulgaris L, PRODUCIDA EN EL CONTEXTO DE LA AGRICULTURA URBANA (BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA) / LEVELS OF LEAD IN COMMON CHARD Beta vulgaris L, PRODUCED IN THE CONTEXT OF URBAN AGRICULTURE (BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA)

Dentro de las posibles formas de contaminación de las hortalizas con plomo se encuentran el suelo cultivado, el agua de riego y la atmósfera; esta última debido a la suspensión de las partículas resultantes de la combustión principalmente de hidrocarburos. Con el objetivo de lograr determinar la cantidad de plomo presente en Acelga común Beta vulgaris L. producida en el contexto de la agricultura urbana, se implementó una huerta con dicho sistema productivo en la ciudad, la cual se localiza en las coordenadas: Latitud 4°42'39,6036" y Longitud 74°5'46,6152", a menos de 500 metros de distancia de dos vías vehiculares principales de la ciudad de Bogotá. Previo a la siembra, se realizaron dos tipos de análisis: contenidos de plomo en suelo cultivado y en agua para riego, con la finalidad de obtener un diagnóstico preliminar sobre los contenidos de este metal pesado en estas dos posibles fuentes de contaminación. Las labores de sistema productivo relacionadas con prácticas culturales se realizaron de manera artesanal, por lo tanto no se realizó ningún tipo de fertilización y en el manejo de plagas no hubo intervención de ningún tipo de producto con la finalidad de evitar sesgos en el presente trabajo. Al momento de la cosecha, se muestreó al azar el 10% de la población total de plantas sembradas; esta muestra fue analizada por medio de espectrofotometría de absorción atómica según procedimiento del método oficial 968.08 de la AOAC, arrojando como resultado 0 ppm de plomo. Estos resultados permiten afirmar que la producción agrícola urbana es una alternativa que fomenta la seguridad alimentaria, no solo desde los aspectos de ingesta de macro y micronutrientes, sino también desde el punto de vista de calidad e inocuidad de los alimentos al no detectarse plomo en el tejido vegetal.

Cultivated soil, irrigation water and the atmosphere are among the possible forms of contamination with lead of vegetables, the latter due to suspension of the particles resulting from the combustion, mainly hydrocarbons. In order to be able to determine the levels of lead present in common Chard Beta vulgaris L. produced in the context of urban agriculture, a vegetable garden with this production system was implemented in the city, which is located at coordinates: Latitude 4°42'39.6036" and Longitude 74°5'46.6152", less than 500 meters away from two main vehicular roads in the city of Bogotá. Before sowing, two types of analysis were performed: lead content in cultivated soil and irrigation water, with the purpose of obtaining a preliminary diagnosis of the contents of this heavy metal in these two possible sources of contamination. The productive system work related to culture practices were made using traditional methods, therefore no fertilization was performed and there was no intervention of any type of product for pest management with the aim of avoiding bias in this study. At harvest time, 10% of the total of plants population planted was randomly selected; this sample was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry through the AOAC official method 968.08 yielding a result of 0 ppm of lead. These results allow the confirmation that urban farming is an alternative that promotes food security, not only from the intake of macro and micro nutrients aspect, but also from the of quality and food safety point of view, since for lead was not detect in the plant tissue.

Atividade antibacteriana e moduladora in vitro de extrato metanólico e hexânico de beta vulgaris spp. (Linnaeus) / Actividad antibacteriana y modulación in vitro de extractos de metanol y hexano del beta vulgaris spp. (Linnaeus) / Antibacterial activity and modulatory in vitro methanol and ethanol extracts of beta vulgaris spp. (Linnaeus)

Introdução: Beta vulgaris spp. conhecida popularmente como beterraba é bastante utilizada, além do consumo alimentar, de maneira etnofarmacológica para o combate de diversas infecções como: dores no trato gastrointestinal, inflamações crônicas, lesões nas genitais, inflamações nos ovários, cólicas, problemas renais, problemas cardíacos e diabetes. Objetivo: avaliar a atividade antibacteriana e modulatória dos extratos metanólicos e hexânicos dos frutos de B. vulgaris frente a cepas bacterianas padrões e multirresistentes, além de determinar as principais classes de metabólitos secundários. Métodos: os extratos metanólicos e hexânicos de B. vulgaris foram analisados para a atividade antibacteriana por meio de teste de microdiluição em caldo para determinação de Concentração Inibitória Mínima e modulação de aminoglicosídeos a gentamicina e amicacina. Resultados: às cepas de Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli diminuiram a Concentração Inibitória Mínima de 64 µg/mL and 256 µg/mL quando combinadas aos antibióticos e extratos, Apresentando, portanto um efeito de aumento da atividade antibiótica, com exceção para o extrato hexânico em associação com a gentamicina contra cepas multirresistentes de Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusão: na prospecção fitoquímica foram evidenciados a presença de vários metabólitos secundários, o que pode explicar a ação bactericida desta planta. Portanto, diante dos resultados, B.vulgaris é uma fonte promissora no combate a resistência bacteriana(AU)

Introducción: Beta vulgaris SSP. conocido em lo popular como remolacha, es muy utilizado, además como consumo de alimentos, de manera etnofarmacológica para combatir varias infecciones como: dolores en el tracto gastrointestinal, inflamaciones crónicas, lesiones genitales, inflamaciones en ovarios, cólicos, problemas renales, diabetes y problemas del corazón. Objetivo: evaluar la actividad anti-bacteriana y moduladora de extractos metanólicos y hexânicos del fruto de B. vulgaris frente de cepas bacterianas multirresistentes estándares y además de determinar los principales metabolitos secundarios. Métodos: los extractos metanólicos y hexânicos de B. vulgaris fueron analizados para la actividad antibacteriana mediante prueba de microdilución en caldo para la determinación de la Concentración Mínima Inhibitoria y la modulación de aminoglicósidos gentamicina y amikacina. Resultados: las cepas de Staphylococcus aureus y Escherichia coli disminuyeron la Concentración Mínima Inhibitoria de 64 µ g/mL y 256 µ g/mL al combinarlos con antibióticos y los extractos, mostrando así un aumento de la actividad antibiótica. Excepto el extracto hexânico en combinación con la gentamicina contra cepas multirresistentes de Staphylococcus aureus. La fitoquímica evidencia la presencia de varios metabolitos secundarios que pueden explicar la acción bactericida de esta planta. Conclusión: los resultados de B. vulgaris muestran que es una fuente prometedora en la lucha contra la resistencia bacteriana(AU)

Introduction: Beta vulgaris spp. is popularly known as beets, widely used in ethno pharmacological way to fight various infections of the gastrointestinal tract such as pain, chronic inflammation, and sores on the genitals, inflammation of the ovaries, cramps, kidney problems, heart problems and diabetes. Objective: to evaluate the antibacterial and modulatory activity of methanol extracts of fruits and hexanic of B. vulgaris against strains of multiresistant bacterial and standards. In addition, to determining the major classes of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids and tannins. Methods: Hexane and methanol extracts of B. vulgaris were analyzed to antibacterial activity by the broth microdilution test for determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and modulation and aminoglycosides such as amikacin, gentamicin. Results: the strains relevant of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcos aureus decreased Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of 64 mg/mL and 256 mg/mL thereof when combined antibiotic and extracts. Showing, so a enhancement effect of antibiotic activity, except for the hexane extract in combination with gentamicin against multidrug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusion: in phytochemical were shown the presence of various secondary metabolites, which may explain the bactericidal action of this plant. Therefore, given the results, B. vulgaris spp. is a promising source in combat bacterial resistance(AU)

Potencial do óleo essencial de erva-luísa (Aloysia citriodora Palau) no controle de Fusarium sp. in vitro / Essential oil potential herb-luisa (Aloysia citriodora Palau) in the control of Fusarium sp. in vitro

RESUMO O presente trabalho teve como objetivo principal avaliar o potencial do uso do óleo essencial de Aloysia citriodora no controle in vitro de Fusarium sp., isolado de plântulas de beterraba infectadas com o mesmo. O trabalho foi realizado por meio de dois experimentos: um sobre o efeito do óleo essencial no crescimento micelial, e outro sobre o efeito na germinação de conídios do fungo. No primeiro trabalho, avaliou-se em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, o efeito das concentrações 0,0155%; 0,0315%; 0,0625%; 0,125%; 0,250% e 0,500% do óleo essencial de A. citriodora em placas de Petri® com meio de cultivo BDA, mais a testemunha, com meio BDA puro. Cada placa foi considerada uma repetição, as quais foram incubadas a 24ºC±1ºC e submetidas a fotoperíodo de doze horas. Avaliou-se o crescimento radial do patógeno em função do crescimento micelial do patógeno quando este atingia as bordas da primeira placa. No segundo experimento, as mesmas concentrações foram testadas, nas mesmas condições de incubação, no entanto, em lâminas de microscopia com meio BD. Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, sendo considerada como unidade experimental cada lâmina utilizada. Avaliou-se 24 horas após a incubação, em microscópio óptico, a germinação dos primeiros vinte conídios visualizados a partir do canto esquerdo superior para o direito. Os resultados do segundo experimento foram expressos em porcentagem de germinação de conídios. Os resultados obtidos permitiram concluir que este óleo essencial possui efeito fungistático e fungicida sobre o crescimento micelial e na germinação de conídios de Fusarium sp.. Além disso este efeito é maior em função do aumento da concentração do óleo essencial.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the potential use of Aloysia citriodora essential oilisolated from beet seedlings infected with it. The study was performed by conducting two experiments evaluating the effect of the essential oil on mycelial growth and fungus conidia germination. In the first study, in a completely randomized design, the effect concentrations (0.0155%; 0.0315%; 0.0625%; 0.125%; 0.250% and 0.500%) of essential oil of A. citriodorawas evaluated on Petri® dish with a PDA cultivation medium, plus the control, with half pure PDA. Each plate was taken as a repeat, and incubated at 24°C±1°C and a photoperiod of twelve hours. The radial growth of the pathogen, when the first plate was hit by the mycelial growth of the pathogen on its edges was evaluated. In the second experiment, the same concentrations were tested under the same incubationconditions, however, on microscope slides with half PD medium. The design was used completely randomized, each microscope slide used was considered as one experimental unit. Germination of the first 2 conidia strains, viewed from the upper left to the right was evaluated24 hours after incubation, using an optical microscope. The results of the second experiment were expressed as a percentage of conidia germination. The results obtained showed that this essential oil has fungistatic and fungicidal effect on the mycelial growth and at the conidia germination of Fusarium sp., which has a greater effect with increasing concentrations.

Influencia de la betarraga (Beta vulgaris var. cruenta) en el aumento de leucocitos, en ratones / Influence of beetroot (Beta vulgaris var. cruenta) on mice leukocytes increase

Introducción: La betarraga es una planta oriunda del Mediterráneo utilizada para fines alimenticios y medicinales. Contiene flavonoides. Objetivos: Determinar la influencia del consumo del extracto de Beta vulgaris var. cruenta en el incremento de leucocitos, en el ratón albino. Diseño: Estudio experimental. Lugar: Bioterio de la Institución Educativa 1182. Material biológico: Veinte ratones albinos de la cepa balb/c, machos, de peso promedio 24 g. Intervenciones: Se formó dos grupos, experimental y control, cada uno de diez ratones. Al grupo experimental se le administró vía oral extracto de Beta vulgaris var. cruenta en dosis de 250 mg/kg, volumen de 2 mL, cada cinco horas durante una semana, alternando con nutrientes, y al grupo control solo se le administró nutrientes. Principales medidas de resultados: Recuento de leucocitos. Resultados: Dentro del periodo de acondicionamiento, se observó un ligero incremento en la media de leucocitos del grupo control (3 681 ± 431,1) frente al grupo experimental (3 579 ± 473,5), cuya diferencia no fue significativa. Luego de administrar al grupo experimental el extracto de Beta vulgaris var. cruenta, alternando con sus nutrientes respectivos, se observó diferencia significativa de la media (7 961 ± 275,4) frente al grupo control (3 693 ± 414,7) (t student p<0,05). Conclusiones: En condiciones experimentales, el consumo del extracto de Beta vulgaris var. cruenta incrementó significativamente el número de leucocitos.

Background: Beetroot is a flavonoid-containing Mediterranean plant used for food and medicinal purposes. Objectives: To determine the influence of Beta vulgaris var. cruenta extract consumption in increasing albino mice leukocytes. Design: Experimental study. Setting: School Number 1182 bioterium. Biologic material: Twenty male Balb/c albino mice weighing 24 g average. Interventions: Two groups of ten mice each were formed; the experimental group received Beta vulgaris var. cruenta extract at 250 mg/kg oral doses, 2 mL volume every five hours for one week, alternating with nutrients; the control group received nutrients only. Main outcome measures: Leukocyte count. Results: During the conditioning period a slight increase in leukocytes in the control group (3 681 ± 431.1) was found compared to the experimental group (3 579 ± 473.5), but the difference was not significant. After administering Beta vulgaris var. cruenta extract alternating with nutrient media to the experimental group a significant difference in leukocytes (7 961 ± 275,4) was observed when compared with the control group (3 693 ± 414,7) (t student p<0,05). Conclusions: In experimental conditions, the consumption of Beta vulgaris var. cruenta extract significantly increased the number of leukocytes.

Comparison of haploid and doubled haploid sugar beet clones in their ability to micropropagate and regenerate

Background: Haploid plant material is considered as recalcitrant to organogenesis, propagation, and maintenance in vitro. However, sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) breeders utilizing doubled haploid (DH) technology in their breeding programs indicate that sugar beet haploids may be cultured in vitro as well as diploids. Thus in this paper the in vitro performance of haploid and the doubled haploid sugar beet of various origin was evaluated. The DHs were derived from haploids by diploidization and twelve such haploid and corresponding DH clone pairs were obtained thus the comparison included haploid and DH clones that had identical allelic composition and differed only in their ploidy level. Results: The genotypes differed in shoot morphology and susceptibility to blackening during culture in vitro, but no significant differences were observed between the haploids and DHs. The micropropagation rate was, on average, higher for the haploids than DHs. Viability of the midrib and petiole explants after a 6-week culture was highly genotype dependent, but not affected by explant ploidy level. However, regeneration efficiency depended on both the genotype and ploidy level. The explants of several haploids regenerated more frequently and developed more adventitious shoots than the corresponding DHs thus overall efficiency was higher for haploids. Conclusions: The results obtained indicate that most of the haploids used in the comparison performed similar to or even better than DHs. This suggests that sugar beet haploid material can be successfully used not only for the production of DHs, but also maintained in vitro and utilized in projects requiring haploid tissues as the source material.

Crescimento e marcha de acúmulo de nutrientes em plantas de beterraba cultivadas em sistema hidropônico / Growth and nutrient absorption by beet grown in hydroponic system

A produção de beterraba tem alcançado grande destaque no cenário nacional, principalmente no cultivo em condições de campo aberto e no solo, entretanto, as pesquisas da produção de beterraba em cultivo hidropônico são insipientes sobre a nutrição das plantas. Assim, objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar o crescimento e marcha de absorção de nutrientes em plantas de beterraba cultivar Tall Top Early Wonder, cultivadas em sistema hidropônico. O delineamento experimental adotado foi em blocos casualizados com seis tratamentos constituídos pelas épocas de amostragem, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 e 65 dias após o transplante (DAT) e cinco repetições. As mudas de beterraba foram transplantadas, em vasos de 5 dm3 , preenchido com substrato a base de fibra de coco, constantemente irrigadas com solução nutritiva (Hoagland e Arnon), sendo colocados em ambiente protegido, tipo casa de vegetação, localizado na UNESP Câmpus de Jaboticabal, no mês de abril de 2007. Durante o período experimental, avaliou-se o desenvolvimento das plantas, massa seca de folhas, raiz tuberosa e raízes, e acúmulo de macro e micronutrientes na planta. O acúmulo de massa seca da raiz tuberosa da beterraba foi rápido, havendo predomínio da alocação de biomassa na raiz tuberosa (55%) comparado as folhas (43%) e raízes (2%). Maiores exigências nutricionais de plantas de beterraba foram de K, N e P para os macronutrientes e de Mn, Zn e Fe para os micronutrientes. A absorção de N, K e Mn pela planta de beterraba é mais rápida, sendo alta a partir dos 15 DAT. A ordem decrescente dos nutrientes acumulados pela beterraba foi: K, N, P, Mg, Ca e S para os macronutrientes e Mn, Zn, Fe, B e Cu para os micronutrientes.

The production of beet root have achieved higher levels on the national market, mainly in open field and soil exploitation however the hidroponic production technique is just at its begining regarding the nutritional aspects. This way, this study aimed to evaluate the growth and nutrient uptake by the beet root cultivar Tall Top Early Wonder, grown in hydroponic conditions. The experimental design was the completely randomized blocks with six treatments consisting of the sampling dates: 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 and 65 days after transplanting (DAT) and five replications. Beet seedlings were transplanted into 5 dm3 vessels prepared with coconut fiber substrate and irrigated constantly with nutritious solution (Hoagland and Arnon) and after been conducted to the UNESP greenhouses in Câmpus of Jaboticabal in April/2007, into vases. During the experimental period, it was evaluated plant growth and leaf, dry mass root and tuberous roots and the macro and micronutrients uptaken by plants. The dry matter accumulation by tuberous roots cultivar Tall Top Early Wonder was relatively fast, with predominance of biomass allocation in the tuberous root (55%) against the leaves (43%) and roots (2%). The higher nutritional requirements for beet root were K, N and P as macronutrient and Mn, Zn and Fe for the micronutrients. The nitrogen, potassium and manganese absorption by beet root is rapid, being high from the 15 days after transplant. The decreasing order of the nutrients accumulated by the beet root was: K, N, P, Mg, Ca and S for the macronutrients and Mn, Zn, Fe, B and Cu for the micronutrients.

Cobertura do solo com cama-de-frango, com e sem amontoa, na produção de beterraba / Soil covering with chicken manure, with and without hilling, on beetroot yield

O trabalho foi desenvolvido no Horto de plantas medicinais da Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados-UFGD, em Dourados-MS. Foi avaliada a capacidade produtiva da beterraba (Beta vulgaris L.) 'Tall Top Early Wonder', cultivada em solo coberto com cama-de-frango (dose de 10 t ha-1) - CCF e sem cobertura com cama-de-frango semidecomposta - SCF e sem e com amontoa, em uma (21 dias após o transplante) e duas épocas (21 e 42 dias após o transplante). Os seis tratamentos foram arranjados como fatorial 2 x 3, no delineamento experimental blocos casualizados, com seis repetições. As plantas CCF e com duas amontoas apresentaram a maior altura (25,11cm) e superaram em 3,45cm às CCF e sem amontoa, que tiveram menor altura. As maiores produções de massas frescas de folhas (11,41 t ha-1) e de raízes (19,61 t ha-1) foram das plantas CCF e com uma e duas amontoas, respectivamente e superaram em 5,21 t ha-1 e 9,12 t ha-1, respectivamente, às das SCF com uma amontoa, que apresentaram as menores produções. As maiores percentagens de massas secas de folhas (14,36 por cento) e de raízes (17,64 por cento) foram das SCF e com uma amontoa, superando em 1,86 por cento e 2,08 por cento, respectivamente, às das SCF com duas amontoas, que apresentaram as menores percentagens. A maior produção de massa fresca de raízes comerciais (15,98 t ha-1), a média por raiz (129,30 g) e o diâmetro médio da raiz (68,93 mm), foram das plantas CCF e com duas amontoas. O maior comprimento médio das raízes comerciais (64,48 mm) foi das SCF com uma amontoa. As maiores renda bruta (R$ 11.186,00) e renda líquida (R$ 9.746,00) foram do tratamento CCF com duas amontoas, que superaram em 124,12 por cento e 108,65 por cento, respectivamente, às do SCF e uma amontoa.

This project was carried out at Medicinal Plant Garden of the Federal University of Grande Dourados - UFGD, in Dourados-MS. Yield capacity of 'Tall Top Early Wonder ' beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) was evaluated when cultivated in soil covering with semi-decomposed chicken manure (dose of 10 t ha-1) and without covering with chicken manure and with and without hilling, on one (21 days after transplant) and two dates (21 and 42 days after transplant). The six treatments were arranged in a 2 x 3 factorial scheme, in randomized block experimental design, with six replications. Plants cultivated using manure covering with two hillings showed greater height (25.22 cm) and were superior in 3.45 cm than those plants not using covering and without hilling, those of which showed lesser height. The highest production of fresh leaf mass (11.41 t ha-1) and of roots (19.61 t ha-1) were from plants using manure covering and one and two hillings, respectively, being superior in 5.21 t ha-1 and 9.12 t ha-1, respectively, than those without covering and with one hilling, that showed the smallest yield. The highest percentages of dried leaf mass (14.36 percent) and of roots (17.64 percent) were from plants without covering and with one hilling, which were superior in 1.86 percent and 2.08 percent, respectively, than those plants without covering and with two hillings, those of which showed the smallest percentages. The highest yield of fresh mass of commercial roots (15.98 t ha-1), average per root (129.30 g) and average diameter per root (68.93 mm) were from plants using manure covering with two hillings. The greatest average length of commercial roots (64.48 mm) was from plants without manure covering and with one hilling. The greatest gross (R$ 11,186.00) and net (R$ 9,746.00) incomes were from plants that received manure covering treatment with two hillings, which were superior in 124.12 percent and 108.65 percent, respectively, than those without manure covering and with one hilling treatment.

Effects of municipal waste water irrigation on availability of heavy metals and morpho-physiological characteristics of Beta vulgaris L.

In the present study physiological, biochemical and growth characteristics of a leafy vegetable palak (Beta vulgaris L. var All green H1) grown in suburban areas irrigated by wastewater were compared with those irrigated by ground water. Continuous use of wastewater for irrigation led to the enrichment of micronutrients including heavy metals in the soil. Wastewater irrigation favorably affected the physiological, biochemical and growth characteristics of plants, but biomass and yield did not differ significantly between the sites. Uptake and translocation ratio of heavy metals were higher in plants grown at wastewater irrigated site. Mn showed maximum uptake followed by Zn, Cu, Pb, Ni Cr and Cd. Plants produced more secondary metabolites and antioxidants to tolerate against the negative impact of heavy metals at wastewater irrigated sites. Plants produced more metabolites to compensate the toxicity of metals in the area and thus did not enhance the yield and biomass potential. The study suggests that plants growing in wastewater irrigated area have potentially developed the defense strategy to combat against heavy metal toxicity.

Establecimiento de un protocolo de permeabilización con detergentes que incrementa la eficiencia en la producción de betacianinas en cultivos de células de Beta vulgaris L / stablishment of a premeabilization protocol with detergents to increase betacianine production efficiency in a Beta vulgaris L. Cell cultures / Estabelecimento de um protocolo de permeabilização com detergentes que incrementa a eficiência na produção de betacianinas em cultivos de células de Beta vulgaris L

Se evaluó el efecto de cuatro detergentes, Tween 20, 40 y 80, y Tritón X-100® como agentes químicos permeabilizantes para la liberación de betacianinas (BC) de células en suspensión de Beta vulgaris. Se seleccionó el agente químico permeabilizante con base en la concentración de betacianinas liberadas y el tiempo de contacto. El contenido de BC se estimó usando medición de color por análisis de imágenes. Los resultados mostraron que la adición de Tritón X-100® 0,7mM durante 10min era suficiente para liberar el 36% de BC, con una viabilidad de 60-70%, y permitiendo además un nuevo ciclo de cultivo de las células tratadas y la acumulación paulatina de betacianinas durante el segundo ciclo.

Red beet (Beta vulgaris L.) cell suspensions were permeabilized by means of four chemical detergent agents, Tween 20, 40 and 80, and Triton X-100®, to evaluate the recovery of betacianins (BC). The permeabilizating agent was selected as a function of the quantity of BC released and the contact time. Betacianin concentration was measured using digital color image analysis. The results showed that 36% of betacianins was released using Triton X-100® (0.7mM) during 10min; using these extraction conditions, the viability remained at 60-70%. This treatment allowed a second growing-cycle, as well as, an additional accumulation of betacianins.

Avaliou-se o efeito de quatro detergentes, Tween 20, 40 e 80, e Tritón X-100® como agentes químicos permeabilizantes para a liberação de betacianinas (BC) de células em suspensão de Beta vulgaris. Selecionou-se o agente químico permeabilizante com base na concentração de betacianinas liberadas e o tempo de contacto. O conteúdo de BC se estimou usando medição de cor por análise de imágens. Os resultados mostraram que a adição de Tritón X-100® 0,7mM durante 10min era suficiente para liberar 36% de BC, com uma viabilidade de 60-70%, e permitindo além disso um novo ciclo de cultivo das células tratadas e a acumulação paulatina de betacianinas durante o segundo ciclo.

Seguridad en la aplicacion de productos fitosanitarios en cultivos horticolas y fruticolas / Safety in the application of phytosanitary products in horticultural and fruit crops

En sistemas de produccion intensivos, el uso incorrecto de productos fitosanitarios puede afectar la salud de los operarios. El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar sobre el cuerpo del operario aplicador las zonas de deposicion de agroquimico al momento de realizar tratamientos foliares en cultivos horticolas de diferente porte y en monte frutal. Se trabajo en lotes de acelga(Beta vulgaris var cicla L.), de alcaucil (Cynara scolymus L.), de poroto chaucha (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) y en monte de naranjos (Citrus sp.). En cada lote se simularon 4 aplicaciones foliares de fitosanitarios utilizando mochila manual, reemplazando los productos por una soluci¨®n de fenoftaleina (0,5 g/l). En cada aplicacion se recorrieron 100 m entre las hileras de cultivo y previo a cada una de ellas se distribuyeron sobre distintas zonas del cuerpo del operario parches de tela de algodon blanca de10 cm x 10 cm. En laboratorio se recupero el residuo de fenoftaleina de cada parche con hidroxido de sodio 0,1 N y se valoro en espectrofotometro a 540 nm. Los residuos detectados en la parte anterior y posterior del cuerpo del aplicador, respectivamente, fueron: en acelga 1095,6 ¦Ìg/cm2 y 91,02 ¦Ìg/cm2, en alcaucil 787,00 ¦Ìg/cm2 y 404,00 ¦Ìg/cm2, en poroto chaucha 197,50 ¦Ìg/cm2 y 68,35 ¦Ìg/cm2, en monte frutal 481,70 ¦Ìg/cm2 y 44,20 ¦Ìg/cm2. Se demostro la exposicion de todo el cuerpo del operario al realizar tratamientos en condiciones similares a las de estos ensayos, validando la necesidad de contar con elementos de proteccion que lo cubran en forma total.

In intensive production systems, the improper use of phytosanitary products may affect the operator's health. The objective of this work was to determine the areas the agrochemical deposits on the worker¡¯s body, at the time of applying foliar treatments in horticulturalcrops of several heights and in fruit trees. It was performed in lots of Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var cicla L.), artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), string bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and in orange (Citrus sp.) groves. In each lot, 4 foliar applications of phitosanitaryproducts were simulated using a backpack sprinkler and replacing the products for a phenophthaleine solution (0.5 g/l). In each application, 100 m among the crop lines were covered and before each of them, 10x 10 cm white cotton cloth patches were laid on different areas of the worker's body. At the laboratory, the residue of phenophthaleine was recovered from each patch by means of 0.1 N sodium hydroxide and it was then valued in a spectrophotometer at 540 nm. Residues detected in the front and the back of the worker¡¯s body were, respectively, in Swiss chard 1095,6 ¦Ìg/cm2 and 91,02 ¦Ìg/cm2, in artichoke 787,00 ¦Ìg/cm2 and 404,00 ¦Ìg/cm2, in string bean 197,50 ¦Ìg/cm2 and 68,35 ¦Ìg/cm2, in orange trees 481,70 ¦Ìg/cm2 and 44,20¦Ìg/cm2. The exposition of the whole body of the worker was demonstrated by performing treatments in conditions similar to those of these trials, validating the need of having protection elements that completely cover it.