Knowledge regarding reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public in urban areas

Introduction: Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses a partial permeable membrane to remove ions, unwanted molecules and larger particles from drinking water. In reverse osmosis, an applied pressure is used to overcome osmotic pressure, a colligative property that is driven by chemical potential differences of the solvent, a thermodynamic parameter. In the process of reverse osmosis the amount of water that is drained is a concern area for the people using the R.O. filtration device in their household because it wasted about 70% of the water to purify just one liter of water. This R.O. waste water can be utilized for various purposes such as washing vehicle like car bike etc, cleaning toilet this study is aimed to assess the knowledge reverse osmosis waste water utilization among general public at Indore. Objectives: 1. To assess the pretest knowledge regarding reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public. 2. To assess the posttest knowledge regarding reverse osmosis waste water utilization among general public. 3. To evaluate the effectiveness of structured teaching program on reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public. Hypothesis: H1- there will be significant difference between pretest and posttest knowledge who received structured teaching program regarding the utilization of waste R.O water. Materials and Methods: Quantitative, pre-experimental, one group pretest posttest design was adopted for the study. Total of 60 general public selected by using simple randomized sampling technique was used. Description of Tools: Structured knowledge questionnaire. Result: Data was analyzes using descriptive and inferential statistics. Major Finding: In the pre-test majority of the sample (44 out of 60, 73.3%) had inadequate knowledge and in the post-test, majority (54 out of 60, 90%) had adequate knowledge regarding reverse osmosis. A paired‘t’ test was done and it showed a‘t’ value of 22.34 at 0.05 level of significance, this indicates the effectiveness of structured teaching programme in enhancing the knowledge of the general public. There was no association found between the mean pre-test knowledge of the general public. There was no association found between the mean pre-test knowledge scorer with the selected socio-demographic variable such as age (?2 = 8.643), gender (?2 = 4.455), education qualification (?2 = 4.706), Occupation (?2 = 2.531), number of family member (?2 = 5.653) and previous knowledge about reverse osmosis filter water (?2 =0.393). Conclusion: There is a significant difference between the mean pre-test and post-test knowledge score among general public regarding reverse osmosis waste water utilization.

Peligros microbiológicos relacionados con alimentos fermentados de elaboración artesanal comercializados en Tunja, Nariño y Cauca / Microbiological risks related to artisanal fermented foods marketed in Tunja, Nariño and Cauca

RESUMEN Varios factores intervienen en la calidad de los alimentos, como los físicos, químicos, nutricionales, sensoriales y microbiológicos. Este último es importante, ya que, afecta las propiedades organolépticas del producto terminado y, además, puede ocasionar riesgos de salud pública asociados a peligros microbiológicos. Colombia es un país rico en gastronomía, incluyendo alimentos fermentados de elaboración artesanal (AFEA), los cuales son una alternativa actual para sistemas agroalimentarios que buscan alimentos más naturales. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los criterios microbiológicos en AFEA y el cumplimiento de requisitos sanitarios para sensibilizar a productores de bebidas artesanales y revalorizar los productos. Se tomaron en cuenta 11 productores artesanales de Masato, Champús y Almidón agrio de yuca en zonas rurales del país, que voluntariamente aceptaron participar. Se midieron los parámetros de pH, humedad, sólidos solubles y recuentos microbiológicos. Con estos resultados, se pudo calcular el porcentaje de conformidad de los alimentos, de los cuales el 36 % de productos evaluados fueron aptos para el consumo. Se incumplieron los límites establecidos para Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus y Salmonella sp. Los análisis fisicoquímicos mostraron que el Masato y el Champús aportan condiciones abióticas para el crecimiento microbiano. Además, los productores Almidón agrio de yuca tuvieron mayor valoración en el cumplimiento de requisitos sanitarios y menor cumplimiento que los productores de Champús. Los análisis realizados indican que la mayoría de los alimentos incumplieron los límites permitidos por lo cual se debe capacitar a los productores en buenas prácticas de manufactura.

ABSTRACT Several factors intervene in the quality of the food, such as physical, chemical, nutritional, sensory, and microbiological. The latter is important as it affects the sensory properties of the finished product, and it can also cause public health risks associated with microbiological hazards. Colombia is a country rich in gastronomy, including artisanal fermented foods (AFEA), which are a current alternative for agri-food systems seeking for more natural foods. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological criteria in AFEA and its compliance with the sanitary requirements to raise the awareness among crafted beverages producers and revalue the products. Eleven artisan producers of masato, champús and sour cassava starch in rural areas of the country, who voluntarily agreed to participate, were considered. The parameters of pH, humidity, soluble solids, and microbiological counts were measured. With these results, it was possible to calculate the compliance rate of the food, from which 36% of the products evaluated were fit for consumption. The limits established for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Salmonella spp were breached. Physicochemical analysis showed that Masato and Champús provide abiotic conditions for microbial growth. In addition, the Sour cassava starch producers had higher compliance ratings regarding sanitary requirements but lower compliance ratings than champús producers. The performed analysis indicates that most of the food did not comply with the permitted limits, which is why producers must be trained in good manufacturing practices.

Establecimiento de biofloc a tres relaciones carbono/nitrógeno, tendiente a la producción de zooplancton / Establishment of biofloc at three carbon/nitrogen ratios, tending to the production of zooplankton

RESUMEN El objetivo de esta investigación fue establecer el biofloc a tres relaciones carbono/ nitrógeno (C/N): 10/1, 15/1 y 20/1, determinando la secuencia de remoción de N, el perfil de sólidos y la caracterización del zooplancton, para tal fin se dispuso de tres tanques con volumen de 7000 L, incorporando oxígeno al agua a través de un aireador tipo soplador. Se utilizó como fuente de N balanceado, fuente de carbono melaza y bicarbonato de sodio como fuente alcalinizante. Al inicio se incrementó el nitrógeno amoniacal total NAT a 2 mg/L, la alcalinidad total (AT) a 120 mg/L y se adicionó como inóculo 10 litros/tanque de agua proveniente de un estanque de cultivo, al sexto y décimo días se adicionó balanceado incrementando teóricamente el NAT en 4 mg/L y a partir del día 12 en 1 mg/L. En las tres relaciones C/N se evidenciaron procesos de nitrificación durante la estabilización del biofloc, hasta llegar en el tiempo a concentraciones no letales de amonio y nitrito para peces, menores a 1 mg/L. En cuanto a los sólidos volátiles, se encontró una mayor concentración en la relación 20/1, lo cual puede atribuirse a la mayor adición de melaza, con la consecuente producción de SSV a partir de la dominancia de comunidades heterotróficas, en los tres macrocosmos se presentaron comunidades del zooplancton, no obstante, el T2 presentaron la mayor abundancia y riqueza de organismos. Las tres relaciones C/N en biofloc establecieron condiciones de calidad de agua y alimento vivo.

ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to establish the biofloc at three carbon/nitrogen (C/N) relationships: 10/1, 15/1 and 20/1, determining the N removal sequence, the solids profile and the characterization of the zooplankton, for this purpose three tanks with a volume of 7000 L were available, incorporating oxygen into the water through a blower-type aerator. It was used as a source of balanced N, a source of carbon molasses and sodium bicarbonate as an alkalizing source. At the beginning, the total ammoniacal nitrogen NAT was increased to 2 mg/L, the total alkalinity (AT) to 120 mg/L and 10 liters / tank of water from a culture pond was added as inoculum, on the sixth and tenth days it was he added balanced, theoretically increasing the NAT by 4 mg/L and from day 12 by 1 mg/L. In the three C / N relationships, nitrification processes were evidenced during the stabilization of the biofloc, until reaching non-lethal concentrations of ammonium and nitrite for fish, less than 1 mg/L in time. Regarding volatile solids, a higher concentration was found in the 20/1 ratio, which can be attributed to the greater addition of molasses, with the consequent production of SSV from the dominance of heterotrophic communities, in the three macrocosms there were Zooplankton communities, however, T2 presented the highest abundance and richness of organisms. The three C / N relationships in biofloc established conditions of water quality and live food.

Qualidade do leite cru refrigerado avaliado por diferentes laboratórios credenciados pelo MAPA / Quality of refrigerated raw milk evaluated by different laboratories accredited by MAPA

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar e correlacionar os resultados de qualidade do leite cru refrigerado de dez propriedades rurais de Viçosa (MG) obtidos por métodos de referências do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento e por espectrofotômetros de luz infravermelha em três laboratórios (A, B e C) credenciados pelo mesmo órgão de fiscalização. As amostras de leite foram analisadas quanto à contagem bacteriana, contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e teores de gordura, proteína e extrato seco desengordurado (ESD). Não houve discordância de amostras de leite quanto aos teores de proteína e gordura. Porcentagens diferentes de discordância foram observadas entre os resultados dos laboratórios e método de referência quanto à CCS, contagem bacteriana e teores de ESD. Os teores médios de proteína dos laboratórios A e B e os teores médios de ESD de todos laboratórios não foram estatisticamente iguais (p<0,05) aos teores obtidos pelo método de referência. Os teores de gordura obtidos no laboratório B não tiveram correlação estatística (p>0,05) com os teores obtidos pelo método de referência. Observou-se que as CCS e contagens bacterianas médias de todos os laboratórios foram estatisticamente iguais (p>0,05) e correlacionadas (p<0,05) às contagens médias obtidas pelos métodos de referência. Conclui-se que os teores de proteína em dois laboratórios e ESD em todos os laboratórios não são equivalentes com os métodos de referência do MAPA. É importante que os laboratórios revejam a calibração dos seus equipamentos quanto à quantificação dos teores de sólidos do leite.

The objective of this study was to analyze and to correlate the results of refrigerated raw milk quality in ten farms of Viçosa (MG). The milk was analyzed by the Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento standard methods and by infrared spectrophotometers in three laboratories (A, B and C) accredited by the same institution. The milk samples were analyzed for bacterial counts, somatic cell count (SCC) and fat, protein and solids not fat (SNF) tenors. There were no disagreement milk samples as the protein and fat tenors. Different percentages of disagreement were observed between the results of laboratory and standard method as the SCC, bacterial count and SNF tenor. The protein mean tenor of A and B laboratories and the SNF mean tenor of all laboratories were not statistically equal (p<0.05) the tenors obtained by standard method. The fat tenors obtained in B laboratory were not statistically correlated (p>0.05) with tenors obtained by the standard method. It was observed that the means of SCC and bacterial counts of all laboratories were statistically the same (p>0.05) and correlated (p<0.05) to the means counts obtained by standard methods. It is concluded that the protein tenors in two laboratories and SNF in all laboratories are not equivalent with the reference methods of MAPA. It is important that laboratories review the calibration of the equipment on the quantification of milk solids tenors.

Infuence of kaolin application on most important fruit and leaf characteristics of two apple cultivars under sustained defcit irrigation

BACKGROUND: Apple is one of the oldest and most valuable fruits. Water restriction is one of the major problems in the production of this fruit in some planting areas. METHODS: Effects of kaolin spray treatments were studied on two early apple cultivars of Golab and Shafi-Abadi under sustained deficit irrigation (SDI) in Alborz province, Iran during 2017 and 2018. Irrigation treatments were 100%, 85%, and 70% ETc and kaolin application were concentrations of 0, 3 and 6% in 2017 and 0, 1.5 and 3% in 2018. RESULTS: Results showed that 85% ETc treatment compared to other irrigation treatments improved apple tree crown volume in 2017. Deficit irrigation treatments significantly reduced fruit weight in both years. Application with 6% kaolin resulted in 33.3% increase in apple fruit weight compared to non-kaolin treatment at 100% ETc irrigation in the first year. Severe deficit irrigation (70% ETc) significantly reduced apple fruit length in both years, but 6% kaolin increased fruit length in both apple cultivars in 2017. Severe deficit irrigation treatment increased the firmness of apple fruit compared to control and mild deficit irrigation (85% ETc) in the first year of experiment. There was no significant difference between irrigation treatments for apple fruit firmness in the second year of experiment. Kaolin treatments of 1.5% and 3% at full irrigation increased the soluble solids content of apple fruit by 36.6% and 44.1% in 2018, respectively. Deficit irrigation treatments significantly increased leaf proline content compared to control in both years. In the first year, kaolin treatments increased leaf proline but in the second year, leaf proline was not significant. Deficit irrigation treatment of 70% ETc and 6% kaolin had the highest amount of glycine betaine content, malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in apple leaf in the first year of experiment. CONCLUSIONS: Severe deficit irrigation stress (70% ETc) increased the activity of nonenzymatic defense systems of apple trees. Kaolin as a drought stress reducing agent can be recommended in apple orchards of Golab and Shafi-Abadi cultivars as an effective and inexpensive method to improve tolerance to drought stress conditions.

Extração de biomassa aderida ao meio-suporte de um reator de leito móvel com biofilme: agitação mecânica e ultrassom / Extraction of biomass attached to a support media in a moving bed biofilm reactor: mechanical agitation and ultrasound

RESUMO A quantificação de biomassa fixa em reatores de leito móvel com biofilme (MBBRs) é essencial para avaliação e controle do desempenho deles. Entretanto, observa-se que tal quantificação é realizada empregando-se diversas técnicas, o que dificulta comparações entre resultados. No presente trabalho, foram testadas duas das principais técnicas (agitação mecânica e ultrassom) utilizadas para extração de biomassa aderida aos meios-suporte (mídias) de um MBBR sem utilização de agentes químicos. Os desenhos experimentais foram realizados utilizando-se planejamento fatorial completo, e, para tal, foram selecionadas duas variáveis independentes: tempo (T) de exposição de 15 a 60 min; e volume de água destilada utilizado para extração (V) de 100 a 400 mL. O ultrassom mostrou-se superior à agitação mecânica quanto à eficiência no percentual extraído de sólidos suspensos totais (%SST), e embora nenhuma das variáveis (T ou V) tenha contribuído significativamente nas faixas testadas, com base na superfície de respostas, foi conduzido um novo experimento, ampliando a faixa de T de 5 a 90 min. A variável T contribuiu significativamente para o %SST, e o melhor resultado foi obtido com T = 90 min. Recomenda-se o uso de ultrassom, volume de mais fácil manuseio (250 mL) e T = 90 min. Ensaios adicionais são recomendados, tendo em vista a padronização do método.

ABSTRACT Quantification of attached biomass in Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBR) is essential for performance assessment and process control. However, it is observed that such quantification is performed using the most diverse techniques, which hampers comparisons between results. In this investigation, two of the main techniques used (mechanical agitation and ultrasound) were compared for removal of the biomass attached to the support media of an MBBR reactor without the use of chemical agents. The experiments were planned following full factorial designs using the two independent variables: Exposure time (T) from 15 to 60 min; and Volume of distillate water used for extraction (V) from 100 to 400 mL. The results revealed that ultrasound is superior to mechanical agitation regarding detachment of the total suspended solids (%TSS) and though neither T or V contributed significantly within the interval tested, based on the response surface, a new experiment was performed using an increased T range from 5 to 90 min. Then, exposure time contributed significantly to the %TSS detachment, with the best result at 90 min. The use of ultrasound is therefore recommended, with volume that is easier to handle (250 mL) and time equal to 90 min. Additional tests are recommended for method standardization.

Co-digestión anaerobia de la fracción orgánica de residuos sólidos urbanos y su lixiviado / Anaerobic co-digestion of the organic fraction of urban solid waste and its leachate

RESUMEN Los residuos sólidos urbanos (RSU), al ser vertidos sin tratamiento apropiado, ocasionan daños severos al medio ambiente influyendo en la calidad de vida de la población; por esta razón actualmente se le presta atención al adecuado manejo de estos residuos. En este trabajo se estudia la reducción de la fracción orgánica (FORSU), de residuos sólidos generados por un grupo poblacional, tomando como referente una de las residencias estudiantiles de la Universidad de Oriente. La generación de FORSU en la residencia es de 0,06 kg/habdía, con un contenido de sólidos totales de 30,9 ± 5,3 %, de los cuáles el 81,7 ± 0,6 % son sólidos volátiles. Se evalúa la digestión anaerobia la FORSU, mediante un sistema de tratamiento en dos etapas. La primera etapa se realiza en un reactor en lote de lecho escurrido, que permitió un tratamiento discontinuo e in situ de la FORSU, en co-digestión anaerobia con un 25 % de estiércol vacuno. En una segunda etapa, se evalúa el tratamiento anaerobio para los lixiviados que se generan en el reactor en lote, empleando un reactor UASB. En el reactor en lote se alcanzó una remoción de sólidos volátiles del 44,1 %, mientras que en el reactor UASB se removió un 81,2 % de DQO. Como resultado la evaluación del sistema de tratamiento, se alcanzó una productividad total de 5,37 LCH4-kgSV -1-d-1.

ABSTRACT Urban solid waste (MSW), when are discharged without proper treatment, causes severe damage to the environment, influencing the population's quality of life. For this reason, attention is currently paid to the proper handling of this waste. This paper studies the reduction of the organic fraction of solid waste (OFMSW), generated by a population group, taking as reference one of the Student Residences of the Universidad de Oriente. The generation of OFMSW in the residence is 0.06 kg/inhabday, with a total solid content of 30.9 ± 5.3%, of which 81.7 ± 0.6% are volatile solids. The anaerobic digestion of OFMSW is evaluated through a two-stage treatment system. The first stage is performed in a drained-bed batch reactor, which allowed discontinuous and in-situ treatment of OFMSW, in anaerobic co-digestion with 25% of cow manure. In a second stage, the anaerobic treatment for the leachates generated in the batch reactor is evaluated, using a UASB reactor. In the batch reactor a removal of volatile solids of 44.1% was achieved, while in the UASB reactor 81.2% of COD was removed. As a result of the evaluation of the treatment system, total productivity of 5.37 L CH4 -kgSV -1-d-1 was achieved.

Respuesta en poscosecha de frutos de agraz (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) a almacenamiento en dos tipos de plástico / Postharvest response of berry fruits (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) to storage in two types of plastic

RESUMEN La planta de agraz (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) es una especie nativa de arándano de Colombia y su fruto es una baya globosa con propiedades nutraceúticas, debido a su excelente fuente de antioxidantes, utilizado como ingrediente para la preparación de alimentos. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar las propiedades físico químicas del fruto, almacenado durante 12 días, a 2°C y 90% de HR. Se evaluaron frutos en dos estados de madurez: rompimiento de color, estado inmaduro (asociado al color rojo) y completamente pigmentado (100% pigmentación morado), los frutos fueron puestos en bolsas hechas de polietileno biorientado y polipropileno monoorientado. Los resultados muestran que los frutos inmaduros preservaron los sólidos solubles totales, cuando se mantuvieron en polipropileno monoorientado, mientras los sólidos solubles totales, se incrementaron significativamente en los frutos maduros almacenados en polipropileno monorientado, afectando el metabolismo del fruto y las reservas de carbohidratos. El pH disminuyó en todos los tratamientos; entre los 6 y 12DDT, coincidiendo, a su vez, con el aumento de la acidez total titulable durante el mismo periodo.

ABSTRACT 'Agraz' (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) is a native blueberry from Colombia, being the fruit a globose berry, with nutraceutic quality due to an excellent source of antioxidants and is used as an ingredient for food preparation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical-chemical properties of fruits stored during 12 days, at a temperature of 2°C and a relative humidity of 90%. Fruits with two stages of ripeness, color break, an immature state (associated with red color), and fully pigmented (100% purple pigmentation) were stored, packaged in two different plastics recipients, one bioriented polyethylene and the other mono-oriented polypropylene. The results indicate that immature fruits demonstrated a prolonged preservation of the total soluble solids, when combined with the mono-oriented polypropylene packaging, otherwise TSS were significantly increased in mature fruits, packaged in mono-oriented polypropylene, affecting fruit metabolism and carbohydrate reserve. The pH diceased in all treatments, between 6 to 12 days after treatment, coinciding in turn, with the increase in total titratable acidity during the same period.

Micorrhizal biotechnology as an alternative to potentialize the strawberry quality / Biotecnologia micorrízica como alternativa para potencializar a qualidade do morangueiro

The need to develop and use biotechnology tools to improve management and nutritional techniques in strawberry cultivation are increasing. Based on this, the objective of this study was to test if the mycorrhizal inoculation changes the agronomic and qualitative performance of strawberry fruits. The strawberry daughters plants used were of the cultivar Camarosa. The study was carried out in an agricultural greenhouse, Horticulture Sector of the Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (FAMV) of UPF, in the city of Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. The experiment was developed and maintained from June to December 2015. The treatments consisted of five inoculum: T1 = no inoculum (control); T2 = Acaulospora morrowiae; T3 = Rhizophagus clarus; T4 = mycorrhizal community; T5 = Claroideoglomus etunicatum. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replicates. Each plot consisted of a bag containing 6 plants spaced 0.15 mx 0.15 m. In the pits of the plants, it was applied, with the aid of syringe and water, about 70 infective propagules of the tested inocula. During the conduction of the experiment the temperature and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) were monitored in the culture environment. It was evaluated the agronomic and qualitative performance of the fruits and the percentage of mycorrhizal colonization of the plants roots. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and the differences between means were compared by the Tukey test at 5% of probability error. The cultivar Camarosa produced more fruits in October. In September, the month before the one with the best agronomic performance, the mean temperature was 17.7 ºC. The mean PAR recorded in the growing environment was low in relation to crop requirements, throughout the growing period. Fruits produced by plants inoculated with A. morrowiae presented higher values of TSS/TTA ratio in September and October. The percentage of mycorrhizal colonization varied from 26.2% for A. morrowiae to 46.2% for R. clarus. The inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi does not alter the production of strawberry fruits. However, when the plants are inoculated with A. morrowiae there is an improvement in the fruit flavor.

A necessidade de desenvolver e usar ferramentas biotecnológicas para melhorar o manejo e as técnicas nutricionais no cultivo do morangueiro está aumentando. Com base nisso, o objetivo desse estudo foi testar se a inoculação micorrízica altera o desempenho agronômico e qualitativo de frutos de morangueiro. As mudas de morangueiro usadas foram da cultivar Camarosa. O estudo foi realizado em estufa agrícola, no Setor de Horticultura da Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAMV) da UPF, na cidade de Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. O experimento foi desenvolvido e mantido de junho a dezembro de 2015. Os tratamentos consistiram em cinco inóculos: T1 = sem inóculo (controle); T2 = Acaulospora morrowiae; T3 = Rhizophagus clarus; T4 = comunidade micorrízica; T5 = Claroideoglomus etunicatum. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Cada parcela consistiu de um saco contendo 6 plantas espaçadas de 0.15 mx 0.15 m. Na cova de plantio das plantas, foi aplicado, com auxílio de seringa e água, cerca de 70 propágulos infectivos dos inóculos testados. Durante a condução do experimento, a temperatura e a radiação fotossinteticamente ativa (PAR) foram monitoradas no ambiente de cultivo. Foi avaliado o desempenho agronômico e qualitativo dos frutos e a porcentagem de colonização micorrízica das raízes das plantas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e as diferenças entre médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey, a 5% de erro de probabilidade de erro. A cultivar Camarosa produziu mais frutos em outubro. Em setembro, no mês anterior ao de melhor desempenho agronômico, a temperatura média foi de 17.7ºC. A PAR média registrada no ambiente de cultivo foi baixa em relação às necessidades da cultura durante todo o período de cultivo. Frutos produzidos por plantas inoculadas com A. morrowiae apresentaram maiores valores da relação SST/ATT em setembro e outubro. A porcentagem de colonização micorrízica variou de 26.2% para A. morrowiae a 46.2% para R. clarus. A inoculação de fungos micorrízicos arbusculares não altera a produção de frutos de morangueiro. No entanto, quando as plantas são inoculadas com A. morrowiae, há uma melhora no sabor dos frutos.

Ventana óptima de introducción de alimentos y prevención de alergias alimentarias en lactantes de alto riesgo / Optimal window of food introduction and prevention of food allergies in high-risk infants

En las últimas décadas, la introducción temprana de alimentos en la dieta de los lactantes se ha descrito como un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de ciertas patologías, entre las que destacan las alergias alimentarias. Debido a la creciente prevalencia de las alergias alimentarias, tanto en países en vías de desarrollo como en países desarrollados, resulta necesario identificar el momento óptimo de introducción de alimentos para la prevención de alergias en lactantes de alto riesgo. La evidencia más reciente, ha demostrado que las estrategias propuestas hasta el momento de retrasar la exposición a los alimentos alergénicos, no ha reducido el riesgo de desarrollar alergias. Esto ha producido un cambio de paradigma que ha derivado en la publicación de nuevas guías que recomiendan no retrasar la introducción de alimentos sólidos después de los 4-6 meses de edad, tanto en lactantes de bajo como de alto riesgo, para prevenir la alergia alimentaria. En la presente revisión, se describe la evidencia científica actual sobre la relación entre el momento de la introducción de alimentos alergénicos (maní, huevos, leche, cereales y pescado) en la dieta de los lactantes y el desarrollo de alergias alimentarias(AU)

In recent decades, the early introduction of foods in infants' diet has been described as a risk factor for developing specific pathologies, among which food allergies stand out. Due to the increasing prevalence of food allergies, both in developing and developed countries, it is necessary to identify the optimal time to introduce foods to prevent allergies in high-risk infants. The most recent evidence has shown that the strategies proposed to delay exposure to allergenic foods have not reduced the risk of developing allergies. Therefore, a paradigm shift has led to the publication of new guidelines that recommend not delaying the introduction of solid foods after 4-6 months of age, both in low-risk and high-risk infants, to prevent food allergy. In this review, we describe the current scientific evidence on the relationship between the timing of the introduction of allergenic foods (peanuts, eggs, milk, cereals, and fish) into infants' diet and the development of food allergies(AU)

Water salinity and nitrogen fertilization in the production and quality of guava fruits / Salinidade da água e adubação nitrogenada na produção e qualidade de frutos de goiabeira

Using nitrogen (N) to increase plant tolerance to salinity has been tested in many species. However, in addition to controversial results, most studies are conducted with annual species and/or in the initial growth stage and there are almost no studies with perennial fruit crops in the production stage. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the production components and post-harvest quality of 'Paluma' guava irrigated with water of increasing salinity in soil fertilized with N. The experiment was carried out for two years in drainage lysimeters in an experimental area of the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Pombal, PB, Brazil. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, in 5 x 4 factorial scheme, with of five levels of water salinity ­ ECw (NaCl)(0.3, 1.1, 1.9, 2.7 and 3.5 dS m-1) and four N doses (ureia) (70, 100, 130 and 160% of the recommended dose - 541.1 mg of N dm-3 of soil per year), with three replicates. Number of fruits, mean fruit weight, production per plant, polar and equatorial diameters of fruit and contents of soluble solids and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) decreased linearly with the increase in irrigation water salinity from 0.3 dS m-1. The interaction between water salinity and N doses and the isolated action of N did not interfere statistically with the studied variables.

O uso de nitrogênio como forma de aumentar a tolerância das plantas à salinidade tem sido testado em muitas espécies. No entanto, além de resultados controversos, se observa que a maioria dos estudos são realizados com espécies anuais e, ou na fase inicial de crescimento, sendo praticamente inexistentes estudos com frutíferas perenes em fase de produção. Nessa direção, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar os componentes de produção e a qualidade pós-colheita de goiabeira 'Paluma' irrigada com águas de salinidade crescente no solo com nitrogênio. O experimento foi conduzido durante dois anos em lisímetros de drenagem numa área experimental da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Pombal, PB. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 5 x 4, com salinidades de água ­ CEa (NaCl) de 0,3, 1,1, 1,9, 2,7 e 3,5 dS m-1 e quatro doses de nitrogênio (ureia) de 70, 100, 130 e 160% da dose recomendada de 541,1 mg de N dm-3 por ano, com três repetições. A interação salinidade da água x doses de nitrogênio e ação isolada de N não influenciaram estatisticamente as variáveis estudadas. O número de frutos, a massa média de frutos, a produção por planta, o diâmetro polar e equatorial dos frutos, os teores de sólidos solúveis e ácido ascórbico (vitamina C), decresceram linearmente com o aumento da salinidade da água de irrigação a partir de 0,3 dS m-1.

Influência da idade do lodo na colmatação das membranas em um biorreator à membrana tratando esgoto sanitário / Effect of solids retention time on membrane fouling in a membrane bioreactor treating municipal wastewater

RESUMO O presente estudo avaliou o efeito da idade do lodo (θc) no potencial incrustante do licor misto em um biorreator à membrana (BRM) tratando esgoto sanitário. Tal avaliação foi conduzida em BRM construído em escala de bancada, com volume útil de 15 L, operado por 420 dias na modalidade de batelada sequencial. Durante o período experimental, foram aplicadas 3 estratégias operacionais, E-1, E-2 e E-3, em que foram testadas as idades de lodo de 80, 40 e 20 dias, respectivamente. Os resultados revelaram que a utilização da idade de lodo de 20 dias resultou em licor misto com maior potencial incrustante, apresentando, neste caso, uma velocidade de colmatação (VC) das membranas de 1,95 mbar dia-1, aproximadamente 2 vezes maior do que a observada nas idades de lodo de 80 e 40 dias. A maior colmatação observada foi atribuída a maior concentração de produtos microbianos solúveis (PMSs) no licor misto e a maior relação proteínas/polissacarídeos (PN/PS) dos flocos biológicos nesse período em questão. Por outro lado, a aplicação da idade de lodo de 80 dias resultou em menor VC das membranas do BRM, com valor de 0,82 mbar dia-1. Contudo, no período final dessa estratégia foi observado crescimento excessivo de bactérias filamentosas, que se refletiu em piora da filtrabilidade do licor misto e aumento da VC das membranas. De maneira geral, os resultados obtidos mostraram que a aplicação da idade de lodo de 40 dias resultou em licor misto com menor potencial incrustante.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effect of solids retention time (SRT) on membrane fouling rate in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating municipal wastewater. The evaluation was conducted in a membrane bioreactor built in bench scale, with a volume of 15 L, operated for 420 days in the sequential batch regime. During this period, three experimental runs were applied, E-1, E-2 and E-3, in which the solids retention time of 80, 40 and 20 days, respectively, were tested. The results showed that use of 20-days solids retention time resulted in a higher membrane fouling rate (MFR), with value of 1,95 mbar d-1, approximately two times higher than observed in the solids retention time of 80 and 40 days. The higher membrane fouling rate observed was attributed to a higher concentration of soluble microbial products (SMP) in the mixed liquor and to the higher proteins/polysaccharides ratio of the biological flocs in this period. On the other hand, the use of 80-days solids retention time resulted in a lower membrane fouling rate, with a value of 0.82 mbar d-1. However, it was observed in the final period of this experimental run an excessive growth of filamentous bacteria, which was reflected in a deterioration of the mixed liquor filterability and an increase of membrane fouling rate. Overall, the results showed that the 40-days solids retention time resulted in a mixed liquor with lower fouling propensity.

Advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper with potential for mechanical harvesting / Linhagens avançadas de pimenta Jalapeño com potencial para a colheita mecanizada

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the plant and fruit characteristics in advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper for mechanical harvesting. Thus, two experiments were carried out in the field. Experiment I (2015) was conducted as a randomized block design (three replications and eight plants per plot) and Experiment II (2016) in a completely randomized design (five replications and ten plants per plot). In 2015, lines CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183, and CNPH 30,245 were evaluated, together with the control 'BRS Sarakura'. Significant differences were detected for fruit and plant characteristics (P<0.05). Lines CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, and CNPH 30,245 were selected based on plant height and height of the first bifurcation, earliness, and yield. They were evaluated again in 2016, together with 'BRS Sarakura' and 'Jalapeño Plus F1' as controls. In 2016, CNPH 30,159 and CNPH 30,118 were selected due to their potential for mechanical harvesting. They were evaluated for height of the first bifurcation (>10cm), large fruits (11 cm x 4 cm), high pulp firmness (11 N), wall thickness (about 5mm), and content of capsaicinoid substances (>50,000 SHU). Selected lines are undergoing additional field evaluation for mechanical harvesting with the Etgar Moses 1010 pepper harvester.

RESUMO: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as características de planta e fruto em linhagens avançadas de pimenta do tipo Jalapeño visando à colheita mecanizada. Assim, foram feitos dois experimentos em campo. O Experimento I (2015) foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos casualizados (três repetições e oito plantas por parcela) e o Experimento II (2016) em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (cinco repetições e dez plantas por parcela). Em 2015, foram avaliadas as linhagens CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183 e CNPH 30,245, juntamente com o controle 'BRS Sarakura'. Foram detectadas diferenças significativas para as características de planta e fruto (P<0,05). As linhagens CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,245 foram selecionadas com base nas alturas da planta e da primeira bifurcação, precocidade e rendimento. Elas foram novamente avaliadas em 2016, juntamente com os controles 'BRS Sarakura' e 'Jalapeño Plus F1'. Em 2016, as linhagens CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,118 foram selecionadas com potencial para a colheita mecanizada. Elas foram avaliadas para altura da primeira bifurcação (>10cm), frutos grandes (11 cm x 4cm), polpa de elevada firmeza (11 N), espessura de parede (5mm) e teor de substâncias capsaicinóides (>50.000 SHU). As linhagens selecionadas estão passando por avaliação adicional em campo para colheita mecânica com a colhedora de pimentas Etgar Moses 1010.

Micro spray and end caps performance operating with water containing different concentrations of organic matter / Desempenho de micro spray e válvula fim de linha operando com águas contendo diferentes concentrações de material orgânico

Recently a micro spray and an end cap with drain valve device were launched on the market. Their main advantage is the low cost. The micro spray provides a higher percentage of irrigated area relative to the drippers and an end cap with drain valve removes all air from the pipes and minimizes obstructions of the emitters. However, these components need to be tested operating with different water quantities and qualities. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of this micro spray and end cap with drain valve operating with water containing different concentrations of total solids. The experiment was conducted in a split plot scheme, with two end caps in the plots (conventional and with drain valve) and five total solid concentrations in the subplots (7 mg L-1, 407 mg L-1, 1007 mg L-1, 2007 mg L-1 and 4007 mg L-1) in a completely randomized design, with three replications. Sixty evaluations of the irrigation system were performed and the emitters were evaluated every application of 60 L up to a volume of 3.6 m3. The water flow rate and application uniformity were evaluated through distribution uniformity (DU) and statistical uniformity (US) coefficients. The micro spray performance was not affected by water application containing total solid concentrations below 270 and 500 mg L-1 in irrigation systems equipped with conventional end caps or with drain valves, respectively. Irrigation systems equipped with end caps with drain valve provided a better performance of micro sprays when operating with water containing total solid concentrations greater than 407 mg L-1. These end caps did not provided difference in micro spray performance when operating with public water.

Recentemente foi lançado no mercado um micro spray e um dispositivo fim de linha autolimpante tendo como principais vantagens o baixo custo. O micro spray propicia maior porcentagem de área irrigada em relação aos gotejadores e o fim de linha autolimpante retiram todo o ar das tubulações e minimizam o entupimento dos emissores. Entretanto, esses componentes precisam ser testados operando com diferentes quantidades e qualidades de água. Diante disso, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o desempenho do micro spray e da válvula autolimpante operando com águas contendo diferentes concentrações de sólidos totais. O experimento foi conduzido em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, tendo nas parcelas dois finais de linha (convencional e válvula autolimpante) e nas subparcelas cinco águas com concentrações de sólidos totais (7 mg L-1, 407 mg L-1, 1.007 mg L-1, 2.007 mg L-1 e 4.007 mg L-1) no delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com três repetições. Foram realizadas 60 avaliações do sistema de irrigação e os emissores eram avaliados a cada aplicação de 60 L, acumulando o volume de 3,6 m3. Os parâmetros avaliados foram a vazão e as uniformidades de aplicação de água por meio dos coeficientes de distribuição (CUD) e estatístico (CUE). O desempenho dos micros spray testados não foi afetado com aplicação de águas contendo concentrações de sólidos totais inferiores a 270 e 500 mg L-1 nos sistemas de irrigação equipados com finais de linha convencionais e autolimpantes, respectivamente. Sistemas de irrigação equipados com finais de linha autolimpantes proporcionam melhor desempenho dos micros spray quando operam com águas contendo concentrações de sólidos totais superiores a 407 mg L-1. Esses mesmos finais de linha não proporcionam diferença no desempenho dos micros spray quando operam com água de abastecimento.

Nondestructive Analysis of Litchi Fruit Quality Using FT-NIR Spectroscopy

A non-destructive optical method based on near-infrared spectroscopy has been used for the evaluation of litchi fruit quality. Diffuse reflectance measurements (12500–3600 cm-1), physical, and biochemical measurements were performed individually on 100 litchi fruits of cv.Shahi cultivar harvested at different ripening stages. Relationships between spectral wavelengths and quality attributes were evaluated by application of chemometric techniques based on partial least squares (PLS) regression. The fruit set was divided into two groups: 60 fruits for calibration and 39 for validation. Good prediction performance was obtained for pH, soluble solids, and titratable acidity with correlation coefficients of 0.96, 0.91 and 0.94 respectively and root mean square errors of prediction of 0.009, 0.291ºBrix and 0.011% malic acid respectively. For the other quality traits such as vitamin C and color the prediction models were not satisfactorily accurate due to the higherror of calibration and prediction.

Elaboração e caracterização físico-química de uma conserva acidificada de biri-biri (averrhoa bilimbi) / Elaboration and physico-chemical characterization of an acidified conserved Biri-Biri (Averrhoa bilimbi)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar uma conserva acidificada, utilizando como matéria-prima o biri- -biri (Averrhoa bilimbi), no estágio de maturação verde, visando obter um produto com maior vida de prateleira. A caracterização físico-química foi realizada por meio das análises de pH, acidez total e sólidos solúveis (ºBrix), avaliando esses atributos nos tempos 0, 8 ,15 e 30 dias. As metodologias utilizadas para as análises do estudo foram as preconizadas pelas Normas Analíticas do Instituto Adolfo Lutz. Os resultados obtidos para pH, nos tempos 0, 8,15 e 30 dias, foram de 1,91, 1,70, 2,27 e 3,30 respectivamente. No que se refere à acidez total, os valores encontrados foram, nos mesmos intervalos acima descritos, de 4,30%; 3,07%; 1,68% e 1,50% de ácido acético. Quanto aos teores de sólidos solúveis (ºBrix), os resultados foram: 3,30; 3,53; 3,46 e 3,33 ºBrix, nos tempos 0, 8,15 e 30 dias, respectivamente. Pelos resultados obtidos, observa-se que a conserva de biri-biri elaborada apresentou características físico-químicas conformes com o requerido pela legislação vigente, no que se refere aos valores de pH, podendo ser classificado como um produto de baixa acidez, mostrando-se como uma boa alternativa para o consumo e conservação dessa fruta, quando não encontrada in natura.(AU)

Does the early introduction of solids promote obesity?

Childhood obesity is a major public health challenge across the developed world, and it is vital to understand the modifiable factors that contribute to it. The influence of early-life nutrition on predisposition to later obesity and metabolic disease is now well established. Much research has concentrated on the preventative effects of breastfeeding in relation to childhood obesity risk, but the optimal timing of introducing solid foods has received far less attention. This remains a much-debated and contentious issue, and differing guidelines from international bodies have caused confusion among parents. There is no conclusive evidence from current research that introducing solids before six months of age is associated with an increased risk of obesity in infancy or childhood. Current studies suggest that the most clearly established risk factor for childhood obesity is maternal body mass index. There is a need for continued research in this area.

Influence of subclinical infection by agents of tick fever in milking dairy cows / Influencia de la infección subclínica por agentes de la fiebre por garrapatas en vacas lecheras

ABSTRACT Objective. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of subclinical infection by agents of tick fever in dairy cattle on milk parameters, such as production, composition, and quality. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in a private farm with 75 free-stall-housed dairy cows, from which 37 were evaluated. Monthly, individual milk samples were collected for compositional (fat, lactose, protein, and total solids) and quality (somatic cell counts (SCC)) analyses. In addition, blood samples were collected in order to identify cows that were tick fever-negative and positive by PCR for one or more of the following etiological agents: Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina and Anaplasma marginale. Results. The results showed increased SCC in positive animals for at least one of the agents when compared to non-infected cows (p<0.05). Milk production was significantly lower in A. marginale positive animals (p<0.05). An increase of about 40% in milk solids content was found in B. bovis positive cows. Also, an increment of approximately 23% in lactose was found on cows positives for B. bigemina. Conclusions. We may conclude that the presence of at least one of these parasites in dairy cattle affects composition or quality of their milk.

RESUMEN Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la infección subclínica por agentes de la fiebre por garrapatas en el ganado lechero en producción de leche, la composición y calidad. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en una finca privada con 75 vacas lecheras alojadas-libre puesto, y de estas se evaluaron 37. Se recogieron muestras de leche individuales mensuales para determinar la composición (grasa, lactosa, proteína y sólidos totales) y la calidad (recuento de células somáticas (SCC)). Además, se recogieron muestras de sangre para identificar vacas que fueron negativas a fiebre de garrapatas y positivos por PCR para uno o más de los siguientes agentes etiológicos: Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina y Anaplasma marginale. Resultados. Los resultados mostraron un aumento de SCC en los animales positivos, al menos para uno de los agentes cuando se comparó con vacas no infectadas (p<0.05). La producción de leche fue significativamente menor en A. marginale animales positivos (p<0.05). Un aumento de aproximadamente el 40% en el contenido de sólidos de la leche fue encontrado en vacas positivas a B. bovis. También, un incremento de aproximadamente el 23% de la lactosa se encontró en vacas positivas para B. bigemina. Conclusiones. Se puede concluir que la presencia de al menos uno de estos parásitos en el ganado lechero afecta composición o calidad de su leche.

Control de calidad de la tintura al 20 % de hojas de Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich. (Nabaco) / Quality control of tincture to 20 % obtained from the leaves of Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich. (Nabaco)

INTRODUCCIÓN: Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich. (Nabaco) se utiliza de forma tradicional como antiséptica, astringente, antidiarreica, antianémico y galactógeno. Por ello, se emplea en infusión y en baños para tratar la diarrea de los niños y los casos de anemia con diarrea. Hasta el momento en las fuentes consultadas no se han encontrado reportes sobre el control a los requisitos de la calidad de formulaciones farmacéuticas obtenidas a partir de esta planta. OBJETIVO: determinar algunos de los requisitos de calidad de la tintura al 20 % obtenida de las hojas de F. occidentalis. MÉTODOS: la planta fue colectada en la localidad de Cienaguilla, municipio Campechuela, provincia Granma, Cuba. El método de extracción aplicado fue la asistida por ultrasonido, utilizándose como menstruo una solución hidroetanólica. La determinación de los requisitos de calidad de la tintura se realizó analizándose cinco parámetros: requisitos organolépticos, pH, índice de refracción, sólidos totales y densidad relativa. Además, se emplearon métodos de análisis cromatográfico y espectroscópico para determinar la persistencia de los compuestos presentes en la tintura en un período de seis meses. RESULTADOS: los resultados obtenidos en el control de la calidad de la tintura al 20 % se encontraron dentro de los rangos de calidad establecidos por las normas utilizadas; y no presentaron diferencias significativas con los requisitos determinados en otras especies de la misma familia. CONCLUSIONES: el control de los requisitos de calidad mostró que la tintura al 20 % de las hojas de F. occidentalis, no manifestó cambios significativos en un período de seis meses que puedan comprometer su estabilidad como formulación farmacéutica. Esto indica que presenta un determinado grado de estabilidad, lo que constituye una garantía de la calidad y seguridad del producto.

INTRODUCTION: Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich. (Rubiaceae) is traditionally used as antiseptic, astringent, antidiarrheal, antianemic and galactogenous. For that reason, it is used on infusion and baths to treat the diarrhea of the children and cases of anemia with diarrhea. Heretofore in the consulted sources reports about the control of quality requirements for pharmaceutical formulations obtained starting from this plant have not been found. OBJECTIVE: To determine some quality requirements of the tincture at 20 % obtained from the leaves of F. occidentalis. METHODS: The plant was collected in the Cienaguilla locality, Campechuela municipality, Granma province, Cuba. The applied extraction method was the extraction assisted by ultrasound, using as menses a hydroethanolic solution. The determination of quality requirements of the tincture was carried out analyzing five parameters: organoleptic requirements, pH, refraction index, total solids and relative density. In addition, chromatographic and spectroscopic methods were used to determine the persistence of the present compounds in the tincture in a period of six months. RESULTS: The results obtained in the quality control of the tincture at 20 % were found on quality ranges established by the used regulations; and they don't show significant differences according to the requirements determined in other species of the same family. CONCLUSIONS: The control of quality requirements showed that the tincture at 20 % of leaves of F. occidentalis did not manifest significant changes in a period of six months that can compromise his stability like pharmaceutical formulation. This indicates that it presents a certain grade of stability, what constitutes a guarantee of the quality and security of the product.