Responses of tomato hybrid cultivars to soil application of humic acid under greenhouse conditions

Abstract Responses of three tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) hybrids viz. 'Luanova', 'Savarona' and 'Tessera' to various doses (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g L-1) of soil application of humic acid (HA) were evaluated in terms of plant growth, productivity and quality of fruits, under greenhouse conditions, during 2011-12 and 2012-13. In addition to improved quality characteristics, higher values for yield and yield components were recorded for tomato fruits harvested from plants of 'Tessera' cultivar compared to those harvested from other hybrids tested, regardless of growing seasons. Plants from 'Luanova' cultivar were, however, earlier in fruiting with higher number of fruits per plant. Soil application of HA presented positive effects on yield and physicochemical quality of tomato fruits irrespective of the dose of HA and the cultivar investigated, in both seasons. Soil application of HA at higher dose 1.5 g L-1 exhibited better results in all the three tomato cultivars tested, in terms of their vegetative and reproductive growth, and significantly improved the physicochemical quality of their fruits. Conclusively, the tomato hybrid 'Tessera' was found suitable for cultivation under greenhouse conditions while soil application of aqueous solution of HA @ 1.5 g L-1 substantially resulted in higher production of quality tomato fruits.

Resumo Respostas de três híbridos de tomate (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) viz. 'Luanova', 'Savarona' e 'Tessera' para várias doses (0, 0,5, 1,0, 1,5 e 2,0 g L-1) de aplicação de ácido húmico (AH) no solo foram avaliadas em termos de crescimento da planta, produtividade e qualidade de frutas, em casa de vegetação, durante 2011-12 e 2012-13. Além das características de qualidade melhoradas, valores mais elevados para o rendimento e os componentes do rendimento foram registrados para frutos de tomate colhidos de plantas do cultivar 'Tessera' em comparação com aqueles colhidos de outros híbridos testados, independentemente das estações de cultivo. As plantas do cultivar 'Luanova', no entanto, frutificaram mais cedo com maior número de frutos por planta. A aplicação de AH no solo apresentou efeitos positivos sobre a produtividade e a qualidade físico-química dos frutos de tomate, independentemente da dose de AH e do cultivar investigado, nas duas safras. A aplicação de HA no solo na dose maior de 1,5 g L-1 apresentou melhores resultados nos três cultivares de tomate testados, quanto ao crescimento vegetativo e reprodutivo, e melhorou significativamente a qualidade físico-química dos frutos. Conclusivamente, o híbrido de tomate 'Tessera' foi considerado adequado para cultivo em casa de vegetação, enquanto a aplicação no solo de solução aquosa de HA @ 1,5 g L-1 resultou substancialmente em maior produção de frutos de tomate de qualidade.

AURAL SYRINGING: A ONE SIZE FITS ALL SOLUTION FOR EAR FOREIGN BODIES?

Objectives: To ascertain if aural syringing is a one size ?ts all solution for aural foreign body removal in a rural setting A Record based descriptive study was looked at paediatric and adult patients Methods: with Aural FB (foreign bodies) who visited ER (Emergency) and ENT-OPD (Out Patient Department) of a single institution between January 2022 and December 2022.The Diagnosis of Aural foreign bodies was based on personal history and Otoscopic ?ndings. Patient characteristics, foreign body type, removal attempts and complications were evaluated with respect to clinical setting and patient outcome. The Data was obtained from the records. 86 patients were brought to Results: the emergency department and ENT-OPD over a 12-month period with foreign bodies of the EAC (External Auditory Canal). Otolaryngologists used otoscope and standard metallic aural syringe as their mainstay of management. Analysis of ER and OPD cases revealed Inorganic aural foreign bodies were 65.11% and 34.88% were Organic foreign bodies. Unilateral Purulent Aural Discharge was in 46.51% (40) patients, pain in 17.44% (15), Ear Bleeding in 8.13% (7), conductive hearing loss and tinnitus was 10.46% (9) and itching in 4.65% (4). Duration of Symptoms was <1 week in 65.11% (56) cases ,1-2 weeks in 22.09% (19) and 2-4 weeks in 12.79% (11) cases. Successful removal of foreign bodies from ear by only applying aural syringing was achieved in 91.86% of cases, and usage of other methods of aural foreign body removal Forceps, Hook and Suction in 5.8% and foreign body removal under GA was 2.32% were recorded Aural foreign bodies were commonly seen in paediatric Conclusion population. Patients commonly present to the ER and OPD for removal of EAC foreign bodies. The common inorganic aural foreign bodies were cotton tip, stone and eraser whereas ?y, lice and bee were the organic FB. The most common symptoms and complications of aural FBs, were unilateral purulent discharge followed by pain, ear Bleeding, Tympanic membrane perforation, external meatus laceration, chronic otitis media and facial Nerve paralysis. The most common procedures used were Syringing followed by Forceps, hook and suction. It is observed that aural syringing performed by the trained hands of an otolaryngologist is a very effective method and can almost be described as a one size ?ts all solution for managing foreign bodies in EAC with some notable exceptions.

Propagation of yellow passion fruit seedlings by cutting, grafting and seeds under salt stress

Salinity is one of the most limiting abiotic stresses in the global agricultural sector. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of irrigation water salinity on the initial development of P. edulis Sims. seedlings propagated by seeds, grafting and cuttings. Treatments were distributed in a completely randomized design, in a 5 x 3 factorial arrangement, corresponding to 5 levels of irrigation water electrical conductivity (0.3 - control, 1.8, 3.3, 4.8, and 6.3 dS m-1) and 3 propagation methods (seeds, cuttings and grafting), with four replicates and one plant per plot. Fifty days after the imposition of treatments with saline water, plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, total chlorophyll, stomatal conductance, relative leaf water content, total water consumption, dry matter of root, shoot and total, root length and root volume were evaluated. The increase in water salinity affected with greater intensity the growth and development variables (height, total dry matter and root volume of the plant) and the physiological characteristics (stomatal conductance) of the species Passiflora edulis, regardless of the method of propagation. Seedlings propagated by grafting showed better development compared to the other propagation methods (seeds and cuttings). The interaction between the propagation methods and water salinity affected seedlings propagated by seeds and cuttings with greater intensity.

Effects of different combinations of N, P and K at different time interval on vegetative, reproductive, yield and quality traits of mango (Mangifera Indica. L) cv. Dusehri / Efeitos de diferentes combinações de N, P e K em diferentes intervalos nas características vegetativas, reprodutivas, produtivas e de qualidade da manga (Mangifera indica. L) cv. Dusehri

The experiment was carried out on mango cv. Dusehri to investigate the effect of N, P and K fertilizers on vegetative, reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality. Eight different fertilizer combinations such as T1 (control), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) and T8 (NPK) were used. Individual or combine fertilizer application of N (1000 g), P (750 g) and K (750 g) were applied during growing season in February and August. All the treatments significantly influenced on vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, yield and other physiochemical attributes of mango as compared to control. Least effect was observed with individual fertilizer application while combine fertilizer treatments enhanced most of the investigated parameters. Especially, qualitative traits showed non significant differences between treated and untreated mango trees. However, among the different treatments T8 (NPK) showed significance for fruiting aspects such as maximum size of growth flushes (177.51 mm), total number of panicles/tree (845), total number of flowers/panicle (974), sex ratio (69.18%), fruit retention (13.85%), total number of fruits/tree (379), yield (82 kg/tree), fruit weight (197.5 g), pulp weight (135.5 g) and physiochemical parameters namely TSS (24.53), Vit. C (57.63 mg/100 mL) and total sugar (20.84%). In general, combine application of NPK (T8) were the most effective in enhancing fruiting aspects, yield, physiochemical characteristics as well as improved fruit quality of mango trees.

O experimento foi realizado em manga cv. Dusehri para investigar o efeito dos fertilizantes N, P e K no crescimento vegetativo, reprodutivo, produtividade e de qualidade do fruto. Foram utilizadas oito combinações diferentes de fertilizantes: T1 (controle), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) e T8 (NPK). Cada tratamento de N(1.000 g), P (750 g) e K (750 g) foi aplicado duas vezes durante a estação de crescimento em fevereiro e agosto. Todos os tratamentos influenciaram significativamente o crescimento vegetativo, floração, frutificação, produtividade e outros atributos físico-químicos da manga em relação ao controle. Menos efeito foi observado com a aplicação individual de fertilizante, enquanto os tratamentos combinados aumentaram a maioria dos parâmetros investigados. Especialmente as características qualitativas mostraram diferenças não significativas entre mangueiras tratadas e não tratadas. No entanto, entre os diferentes tratamentos, T8 (NPK) apresentou significância para aspectos de frutificação, como tamanho máximo de folgas de crescimento (177,51 mm), número total de panículas/árvore (845), número total de flores/panícula (974), razão sexual (69,18%), retenção de frutos (13,85%), número total de frutos/árvore (379), produção (82 kg/árvore), peso do fruto (197,5 g) e peso da polpa (135,5 g), além de parâmetros físico-químicos, como TSS (24,53), vitamina C (57,63 mg/100 mL) e açúcar total (20,84%). Em geral, a aplicação combinada de NPK (T8) foi a mais eficaz no aprimoramento dos aspectos de frutificação, produtividade, características físico-químicas, além da melhoria da qualidade dos frutos das mangueiras.

Effects of different combinations of N, P and K at different time interval on vegetative, reproductive, yield and quality traits of mango (Mangifera Indica. L) cv. Dusehri

Abstract The experiment was carried out on mango cv. Dusehri to investigate the effect of N, P and K fertilizers on vegetative, reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality. Eight different fertilizer combinations such as T1 (control), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) and T8 (NPK) were used. Individual or combine fertilizer application of N (1000 g), P (750 g) and K (750 g) were applied during growing season in February and August. All the treatments significantly influenced on vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, yield and other physiochemical attributes of mango as compared to control. Least effect was observed with individual fertilizer application while combine fertilizer treatments enhanced most of the investigated parameters. Especially, qualitative traits showed non-significant differences between treated and untreated mango trees. However, among the different treatments T8 (NPK) showed significance for fruiting aspects such as maximum size of growth flushes (177.51 mm), total number of panicles/tree (845), total number of flowers/panicle (974), sex ratio (69.18%), fruit retention (13.85%), total number of fruits/tree (379), yield (82 kg/tree), fruit weight (197.5 g), pulp weight (135.5 g) and physiochemical parameters namely TSS (24.53), Vit. C (57.63 mg/100 mL) and total sugar (20.84%). In general, combine application of NPK (T8) were the most effective in enhancing fruiting aspects, yield, physiochemical characteristics as well as improved fruit quality of mango trees.

Resumo O experimento foi realizado em manga cv. Dusehri para investigar o efeito dos fertilizantes N, P e K no crescimento vegetativo, reprodutivo, produtividade e de qualidade do fruto. Foram utilizadas oito combinações diferentes de fertilizantes: T1 (controle), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) e T8 (NPK). Cada tratamento de N (1.000 g), P (750 g) e K (750 g) foi aplicado duas vezes durante a estação de crescimento em fevereiro e agosto. Todos os tratamentos influenciaram significativamente o crescimento vegetativo, floração, frutificação, produtividade e outros atributos físico-químicos da manga em relação ao controle. Menos efeito foi observado com a aplicação individual de fertilizante, enquanto os tratamentos combinados aumentaram a maioria dos parâmetros investigados. Especialmente as características qualitativas mostraram diferenças não significativas entre mangueiras tratadas e não tratadas. No entanto, entre os diferentes tratamentos, T8 (NPK) apresentou significância para aspectos de frutificação, como tamanho máximo de folgas de crescimento (177,51 mm), número total de panículas/árvore (845), número total de flores/panícula (974), razão sexual (69,18%), retenção de frutos (13,85%), número total de frutos/árvore (379), produção (82 kg/árvore), peso do fruto (197,5 g) e peso da polpa (135,5 g), além de parâmetros físico-químicos, como TSS (24,53), vitamina C (57,63 mg/100 mL) e açúcar total (20,84%). Em geral, a aplicação combinada de NPK (T8) foi a mais eficaz no aprimoramento dos aspectos de frutificação, produtividade, características físico-químicas, além da melhoria da qualidade dos frutos das mangueiras.

Effects of acupuncture on nutritional status in patients in a persistent vegetative state: a prospective randomized controlled study / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To explore the effects of acupuncture on nutritional status in patients in a persistent vegetative state. Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial was designed. A total of 66 patients in a persistent vegetative state were randomized into a control group and an observation group, with 33 cases in each group. The control group was given conventional treatment plus enteral nutrition support. The observation group was treated with additional Tiao Shen Jian Pi acupuncture therapy (acupuncture for spirit-regulating and spleen-invigorating) based on the same interventions in the control group. Both groups were treated for 8 weeks. The levels of total protein (TP), prealbumin (PA), albumin (Alb), and hemoglobin (Hb) were measured before and after treatment. The upper arm circumference and skinfold thickness of triceps brachii were measured. And the intestinal flora and fecal short-chain fatty acids contents were determined.Results: After treatment, the levels of TP, PA, Alb, and Hb in the control group were decreased (P<0.05), while in the observation group, compared with those before treatment, the levels of TP, PA, Alb, and Hb had no statistical differences (P>0.05), and the levels were all higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). The upper arm circumference and skinfold thickness of triceps brachii in both groups decreased (P<0.05), and the values of these two items in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). In the control group, the contents of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus in feces decreased (P<0.05), and the content of Enterococcus increased (P<0.05). In the observation group, the contents of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus in feces increased (P<0.05), and the content of Enterococcus decreased (P<0.05). The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). In the control group, the total content of fecal short-chain fatty acids and the contents of acetic acid and butyric acid in feces decreased (P<0.05). In the observation group, the total content of fecal short-chain fatty acids and the contents of acetic acid and butyric acid in feces increased (P<0.05) and were all higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Acupuncture can improve nutrition-related blood indicators in patients in a persistent vegetative state and delay the decrease of upper arm circumference and skinfold thickness of triceps brachii, which may be related to the regulation of intestinal flora and fecal short-chain fatty acids contents.

Factors influencing the extubation of patients in a vegetative state after tracheotomy / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore the factors influencing the extubation time of patients in a persistent vegetative state (PVS) after tracheotomy so as to provide a theoretical basis for early extubation for such patients.Methods:Clinical data were collected on PVS patients after a tracheotomy. The cases were divided into an extubation group and a difficult extubation group according to whether the extubation was successful or not. Version 22.0 of the SPSS software was used to evaluate univariate and multivariate logistic regressions analyzing the factors influencing the success of extubation.Results:The single-factor analysis revealed significant differences between the groups in terms of average age, nursing level, nutrition, swallowing function, hypoalbuminemia and incubation time. Gender, brain injury, stroke, ischemic anoxic encephalopathy and lung infection were not, however, significant predictors. The multivariate logistic regression analysis highlighted nutritional mode, swallowing function, intubation time, pulmonary infection, full-time care and age as independent predictors of extubation success.Conclusions:Intermittent oral to esophageal tube feeding and full-time care are protective factors for extubation of patients in a PVS after a tracheotomy. Swallowing disorders, intubation for more than 30 days, pulmonary infection and greater age are risk factors for unsuccessful extubation. Nutritional support, swallowing function training and intensive nursing can effectively improve the success rate of extubation.

Effects of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) and rooting media on rooting and survival of air layered wax apple (Syzygium samarangense) CV Jambu Madu / Efeitos do Ácido Indol-3-Butírico (AIB) e meio de enraizamento no enraizamento e sobrevivência de maçã de cera em camada de ar (Syzygium samarangense) CV Jambu Madu

The wax apple or jambu madu, is a non-climacteric tropical fruit from Myrtaceae family and widely cultivated in South East Asia. The limited availability of good quality seedlings of wax apple is the main problem to development of flourish it's market share in the current fruit industry. Therefore, in order to produce good quality planting materials, a study aimed at optimizing propagation and adventitious rooting technique and survivability of wax apple air layer was conducted. In this study, four different levels of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) concentration (0, 1000, 1500 and 2000 mg L-1) and three rooting media (sphagnum moss, vermicompost and garden soil) were applied after removal of bark (phloem) on the shoot to determine the effect on rooting and survivability of the wax apple air layer under field conditions. The results showed that the wax apple shoots treated with 2000 mg L-1 IBA produced the significantly higher number of roots, increased length of root, diameter of branch, length of branch, number of leaf and leaf area of air layers. In addition, the highest chlorophyll content and stomatal aperture were recorded in 2000 mg L-1 IBA treatment compared to other treatments including control. Vermicompost medium was better than garden soil and sphagnum moss in respect of rooting and survivability of air layers. The results showed that the combination of 2000 mg L-1 IBA and vermicompost as rooting media give the best combination to root initiation, root number, root length and survival rate (100%) of wax apple air layers. From this study, it can be concluded that 2000 mg L-1 IBA and vermicompost treatment enhance the root initiation, early establishment and survivability of wax apple air layered under field conditions.

A maçã de cera, ou jambu madu, é uma fruta tropical não climatérica da família Myrtaceae e amplamente cultivada no Sudeste Asiático. A disponibilidade limitada de mudas de macieira de boa qualidade é o principal problema para o desenvolvimento de sua participação de mercado na fruticultura atual. Portanto, com o objetivo de produzir materiais de plantio de boa qualidade, foi realizado um estudo visando otimizar a técnica de propagação e enraizamento adventício e a sobrevivência da camada aérea da cera de macieira. Neste estudo, quatro diferentes níveis de concentração de ácido indol-3-butírico (AIB) (0, 1000, 1500 e 2000 mg L-1) e três meios de enraizamento (musgo esfagno, vermicomposto e solo de jardim) foram aplicados após a remoção da casca (floema) na parte aérea para determinar o efeito no enraizamento e capacidade de sobrevivência da camada de ar da macieira em condições de campo. Os resultados mostraram que os brotos de macieira tratados com 2000 mg L-1 de AIB produziram significativamente maior número de raízes, maior comprimento de raiz, diâmetro de galho, comprimento de galho, número de folhas e área foliar das camadas aéreas. Além disso, o maior teor de clorofila e abertura estomática foram registrados no tratamento 2000 mg L-1 IBA em comparação com outros tratamentos, incluindo o controle. O meio de vermicomposto foi melhor do que o solo de jardim e o musgo esfagno em relação ao enraizamento e capacidade de sobrevivência das camadas aéreas. Os resultados mostraram que a combinação de 2000 mg L-1 de AIB e vermicomposto como meio de enraizamento proporciona a melhor combinação para iniciação radicular, número de raízes, comprimento radicular e taxa de sobrevivência (100%) das camadas aéreas de macieira. A partir deste estudo, pode-se concluir que 2.000 mg L-1 de AIB e tratamento com vermicomposto melhoram a iniciação radicular, o estabelecimento precoce e a capacidade de sobrevivência de macieiras em camadas de ar em condições de campo.

Nursery performance of potentially promising rootstocks for citriculture in the south of Brazil / Desempenho em viveiro de porta-enxertos potencialmente promissores para a citricultura do sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Diversification of rootstock varieties, with consequent reduction in phytosanitary risks, has great importance to the sustainability of citrus cultivation in the south of Brazil. This study evaluated the performance of 42 rootstocks in the nursery phase to generate 'Valencia Late' sweet orange seedlings. Therefore, nucellar seedlings from the rootstocks under study were analyzed in relation to plant height, stem diameter, mortality rate and percentage of bud set after grafting. The experimental design was completely randomized with four replications of 20 sample units. Not adapted genotypes had high mortality rates, and the ones of both hybrids LCR x CTSW - 009 and LVK x LCR - 038 were 100% and 90%, respectively. Other 13 genotypes had mortality rates above 30%, and 'Sunki' mandarin was the female genitor of ten of them. 'Swingle' citrumelo was the rootstock with the highest development (plant height and stem diameter), associated with low mortality rate. In relation to the other rootstocks, the best results were the fast grafting diameter, associated with low mortality rate obtained by hybrids HTR - 053, LRF x (LCR x TR) - 005, CLEO x TRBN - 245, CLEO x TRSW - 287, and citrandarins 'Indio', 'Riverside' and 'San Diego', as well as Trifoliate orange and 'Rangpur' lime. In addition to Trifoliate orange, which is widely used in Rio Grande do Sul, these rootstocks have great potential in citriculture in the south of Brazil.

RESUMO: A diversificação do uso de variedades porta-enxerto, com a consequente redução de riscos fitossanitários, é de fundamental importância para a sustentabilidade da citricultura do Sul do Brasil. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento de 42 porta-enxertos na formação de mudas de laranjeira 'Valência Late' em fase de viveiro. Nesse sentido, seedlings (plantas oriundas da germinação de sementes) nucelares dos porta-enxertos estudados foram avaliados relativamente aos caracteres altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, taxa de mortalidade e percentagem de pegamento de borbulhas após a enxertia. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições de 20 unidades amostrais. Genótipos não adaptados tiveram altas taxas de mortalidade, os híbridos LCR x CTSW - 009 e LVK x LCR - 038 apresentaram 100% e 90% de mortalidade, respectivamente. Mais 13 genótipos apresentaram mortalidade superior a 30%, destes, dez têm como parental feminino a tangerineira 'Sunki'. O citrumelo 'Swingle' foi o porta-enxerto que apresentou maior desenvolvimento (altura da planta e diâmetro do caule), associado a uma baixa taxa de mortalidade. Quanto aos demais porta-enxertos, destacaram-se por atingir rapidamente o diâmetro de enxertia, associado a baixa taxa de mortalidade, os híbridos HTR - 053, LRF x (LCR x TR) - 005, CLEO x TRBN - 245, CLEO x TRSW - 287, citrandarins 'Indio', 'Riverside' e 'San Diego', assim como o limoeiro 'Cravo' e o Trifoliata. Além do Trifoliata, amplamente utilizado no Rio Grande do Sul, estes porta-enxertos são promissores para a citricultura do Sul do Brasil.

Effects of different combinations of N, P and K at different time interval on vegetative, reproductive, yield and quality traits of mango (Mangifera Indica. L) cv. Dusehri / Efeitos de diferentes combinações de N, P e K em diferentes intervalos nas características vegetativas, reprodutivas, produtivas e de qualidade da manga (Mangifera indica. L) cv. Dusehri

The experiment was carried out on mango cv. Dusehri to investigate the effect of N, P and K fertilizers on vegetative, reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality. Eight different fertilizer combinations such as T1 (control), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) and T8 (NPK) were used. Individual or combine fertilizer application of N (1000 g), P (750 g) and K (750 g) were applied during growing season in February and August. All the treatments significantly influenced on vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, yield and other physiochemical attributes of mango as compared to control. Least effect was observed with individual fertilizer application while combine fertilizer treatments enhanced most of the investigated parameters. Especially, qualitative traits showed nonsignificant differences between treated and untreated mango trees. However, among the different treatments T8 (NPK) showed significance for fruiting aspects such as maximum size of growth flushes (177.51 mm), total number of panicles/tree (845), total number of flowers/panicle (974), sex ratio (69.18%), fruit retention (13.85%), total number of fruits/tree (379), yield (82 kg/tree), fruit weight (197.5 g), pulp weight (135.5 g) and physiochemical parameters namely TSS (24.53), Vit. C (57.63 mg/100 mL) and total sugar (20.84%). In general, combine application of NPK (T8) were the most effective in enhancing fruiting aspects, yield, physiochemical characteristics as well as improved fruit quality of mango trees.

O experimento foi realizado em manga cv. Dusehri para investigar o efeito dos fertilizantes N, P e K no crescimento vegetativo, reprodutivo, produtividade e de qualidade do fruto. Foram utilizadas oito combinações diferentes de fertilizantes: T1 (controle), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) e T8 (NPK). Cada tratamento de N (1.000 g), P (750 g) e K (750 g) foi aplicado duas vezes durante a estação de crescimento em fevereiro e agosto. Todos os tratamentos influenciaram significativamente o crescimento vegetativo, floração, frutificação, produtividade e outros atributos físico-químicos da manga em relação ao controle. Menos efeito foi observado com a aplicação individual de fertilizante, enquanto os tratamentos combinados aumentaram a maioria dos parâmetros investigados. Especialmente as características qualitativas mostraram diferenças não significativas entre mangueiras tratadas e não tratadas. No entanto, entre os diferentes tratamentos, T8 (NPK) apresentou significância para aspectos de frutificação, como tamanho máximo de folgas de crescimento (177,51 mm), número total de panículas/árvore (845), número total de flores/panícula (974), razão sexual (69,18%), retenção de frutos (13,85%), número total de frutos/árvore (379), produção (82 kg/árvore), peso do fruto (197,5 g) e peso da polpa (135,5 g), além de parâmetros físico-químicos, como TSS (24,53), vitamina C (57,63 mg/100 mL) e açúcar total (20,84%). Em geral, a aplicação combinada de NPK (T8) foi a mais eficaz no aprimoramento dos aspectos de frutificação, produtividade, características físico-químicas, além da melhoria da qualidade dos frutos das mangueiras.

Development and reliability and validity testing of the assessment scale for patients with persistent vegetative state or minimally conscious state discharge from the anesthesia recovery room / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To develop and test the reliability and validity of the assessment scale for patients with persistent vegetative state (PVS) or minimally conscious state (MCS) discharge from the anesthesia recovery room after operation.Methods:From September 2018 to October 2020, three dimensions and 17 item pools were determined through literature review and discussion among the project members. Two rounds of expert consultation were conducted to determine the respiratory (R), circulatory (C), oxygenation (O), bispectral index (B) and neuromuscular monitoring (N) scale (RCOBN scale), the reliability and validity were tested. 87 patients with PVS or MCS after operation Affiliated Sichuan Bayi Rehabilitation Center of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine were selected to verify the effectiveness.Results:In the first round, 23 questionnaires were distributed. The total score of experts was 50 ± 3, F=9.24, CV were 0.00-0.43. The Cronbach α coefficient of each dimension was 0.782-0.846, and the Cronbach α coefficient of the total scale was 0.813. In the second round, 10 questionnaires were distributed. The item-level content validity index was 0.7-1.0, the probability of random consistency ( Pc) was 0.001-0.117, the adjusted kappa value ( k*) was 0.567-1.000, and the sum of the index scores corresponding to k* > 0.74 was 8. The scale-level content validity index of the overall consistency was 0.87. The ratio of patients transferred out of PACU by two rounds of evaluation method was 100 : 96.55, and the difference was not statistically significant ( χ2=3.05, P>0.05). The time of the first round of assessment was significantly longer than that of the second round, which were (197 ± 52) s and (58 ± 14) s respectively. The difference was statistically significant ( t=26.52, P < 0.01). Conclusions:The RCOBN scale has high reliability and validity. It can be used as an assessment scale for patients with PVS or MCS to transfer out of PACU after surgery, and those with a total score of 8 can be transferred out of PACU.

¿Es proporcionado suspender la nutrición e hidratación artificial en pacientes con pronóstico incierto? Perspectiva nutricional y bioética

para llevar a cabo esta investigación, se revisó la literatura sobre el caso de Terri Schiavo, paciente que se encontraba en estado vegetativo persistente y quien falleció luego de dos semanas, después de que se le suspendiera su alimentación e hidratación; se validó su diagnóstico y se indagó si fue una paciente terminal, así como también se verificó la evidencia disponible, en relación con la hidratación y nutrición artificial en este tipo de pacientes, para determinar la concordancia de estas medidas. Esta información fue analizada desde la perspectiva nutricional y bioética; en la búsqueda bibliográfica se consultaron las bases de datos Scopus, Scielo y PubMed, con los criterios de búsqueda nutrición e hidratación artificial en pacientes terminales y de pronóstico incierto. Estos hallazgos fueron analizados con el modelo de proporcionalidad terapéutica de Calipari. Por lo anterior, se determinó que la nutrición e hidratación artificial configuraban tratamientos de carácter obligatorio u optativo para Terri. Sin embargo, pese a que no existe información concluyente sobre la nutrición e hidratación artificial en pacientes terminales, ni de pronóstico incierto, se recomienda la evaluación caso a caso de parte del equipo médico, para determinar la proporcionalidad de estos procedimientos en conjunto con el paciente y su familia. Cabe resaltar que son necesarios más estudios para proporcionar mejor evidencia que permita contar con elementos objetivos para una mejor toma de decisiones.

to carry out this research, the literature was reviewed on the case of Terri Schiavo, a patient who was in a persistent vegetative state and who died after two weeks, after her nutrition and hydration were suspended; her diagnosis was validated, and it was investigated whether she was a terminal patient, as well as the available evidence, was verified, in relation to artificial hydration and nutrition in this type of patients to determine the concordance of these measures. This information was analyzed from the nutritional and bioethical perspective; in the bibliographic search, the Scopus, Scielo, and PubMed databases were consulted with the search criteria nutrition and artificial hydration in terminal patients and patients with uncertain prognosis; these findings were analyzed with Calipari's therapeutic proportionality model. Therefore, it was determined that artificial nutrition and hydration are mandatory or optional treatments for Terri. However, there is no conclusive information on artificial nutrition and hydration in terminally ill patients, nor is the prognosis uncertain, and a case-by-case evaluation by the medical team is recommended to determine the proportionality of artificial nutrition and hydration, together with the patient and family. It should be emphasized that more studies are needed to provide better evidence to provide objective elements for better decision-making.

Para realizar esta pesquisa, foi revisada a literatura sobre o caso de Terri Schiavo, paciente que se encontrava em estado vegetativo persistente e que faleceu após duas semanas depois de sua alimentação e hidratação terem sido suspensas. Foi avaliado seu diagnóstico e questionado se foi uma paciente terminal, bem como verificada a evidência disponível quanto à hidratação e à nutrição artificiais nesse tipo de pacientes para determinar a concordância dessas medidas. Essa informação foi analisada sob a perspectiva nutricional e bioética; na busca bibliográfica, foram consultadas as bases de dados Scopus, SciELO e PubMed, com os critérios de busca "nutrição e hidratação artificiais em pacientes terminais e de prognóstico incerto". Esses achados foram analisados com o modelo de proporcionalidade terapêutica de Calipari. Assim, foi determinado que a nutrição e a hidratação artificiais configuram tratamentos de caráter obrigatório ou opcional para Terri. Contudo, não existe informação conclusiva sobre a nutrição e a hidratação artificiais em pacientes terminais, nem em pacientes com prognóstico incerto. É recomendada a avaliação por parte da equipe médica caso a caso para determinar a adequação da nutrição e da hidratação artificiais em conjunto com o paciente e sua família. Cabe ressaltar que mais estudos são necessários para proporcionar melhor evidência que permita contar com elementos objetivos para uma melhor tomada de decisões.

VEGETATIVE GRANULOMA : A DIAGNOSIS SELDOM SUSPECTED CLINICALLY

Vegetative granuloma is granulomatous foreign body response to impaction of vegetative or plant material in periapical and sulcus areas of oral cavity, generally secondary to trauma and/or poor oral hygiene. Other names being used in literature for vegetative granuloma are pulse granuloma, chronic mandibular periostitis, hyaline ring granuloma and giant cell hyaline angiopathy. Most cases are seldom suspected clinically and confirmed by microscopic examination only. We present here a case of 42 years old female with peanut sized nodular swelling over left maxilla associated with gradually increasing pain since 3 months. Her oral examination revealed poor oral hygiene. Radiological investigation depicted soft tissue swelling without any bony involvement. Histomorphology showed tissue lined by hypertrophied stratified squamous epithelium having vegetative matter impacted in fibro-collagenous stroma surrounded by prominent giant cell reaction with well-formed granulomas, suggestive of diagnosis of vegetative granuloma. It is important to correctly diagnose this entity as it is an uncommon one and rarely encountered in routine practice. It may clinically mimic as malignancy or tuberculosis at times, hence an accurate diagnosis saves from undue over treatment. Vegetative granuloma is treated by complete excision of lesion and maintenance of oral hygiene to prevent recurrence.

Evaluation of corn hybrids for silage grown in different locations / Avaliação de híbridos de milho para silagem cultivados em diferentes locais

The aim of this study was to evaluate the yield, morphometric and chemical characteristics, and the digestibility of various corn hybrids cultivated in different locations for silage production. Four corn hybrids were grown: P2866H, P3456H, P30R50VYH and P4285YHR, in four locations, defined as farm A; B; C and D. The hybrid P4285YHR presented the highest plant and ear insertion heights (2.72m, 1.52m respectively), with a minimum registered height of 2.63 m and 1.42 m, for plant and ear insertion height, and for that reason it presented the highest yield of fresh biomass (78,089kg ha-1). The TND values showed trend very close to that observed in the DISMS of the whole-plant, with hybrid P3456H presenting the highest estimated value (68.74%), and the hybrid P4285YHR the lowest among them (65.25%). In general, lower fibrous carbohydrates and lignin content, higher fibrous carbohydrates content, together with satisfactory grains participation in the plant structure led to a greater dry matter digestibility. Hybrids with lower plant heights do not necessarily have lower dry biomass yields, but hybrids of greater height and with high stem and leaf participation tend to have a higher aFDN content and less dry matter digestibility.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho produtivo e as características morfométricas e químicas, além da digestibilidade de diferentes híbridos de milho cultivados em diferentes locais para produção de silagem. Foram cultivados quatro híbridos de milho: P2866H, P3456H, P30R50VYH e P4285YHR, em quatro locais, definidos como propriedades A; B; C e D. O híbrido P4285YHR apresentou as maiores alturas de planta e de inserção de espiga (2,72m, 1,52m, respectivamente), com altura mínima registrada, nos diferentes locais, de 2,63m e 1,42m, para altura de planta e inserção de espiga, e, por isso, apresentou o maior rendimento de biomassa fresca (78.089kg ha-1). Os valores calculados de NDT mostraram tendência muito próxima àquela observada na DISMS da planta inteira, tendo o híbrido P3456H apresentado o maior valor estimado (68,74%), e o híbrido P4285YHR o menor entre eles (65,25%). Em geral, menores concentrações de carboidratos fibrosos e lignina, maior teor de carboidratos fibrosos, juntamente com satisfatória participação de grãos na estrutura da planta, conduzem a uma maior digestibilidade da matéria seca. Híbridos com menores alturas de planta não necessariamente apresentam menores rendimentos de biomassa seca, mas híbridos de maior altura e com alta participação de colmo e folhas tendem a apresentar maior teor de aFDN e menor digestibilidade da matéria seca.(AU)

Epífitas vasculares: el patito feo de los estudios fenológicos / Vascular epiphytes: the ugly duckling of phenological studies

ABSTRACT The phenology of vascular epiphytes, which account for about 10 % of the world's flowering plants and perform important ecological functions, has been just partially explored. Since phenology is a key tool for the management and conservation of species, the objective of this review was to synthesize the information published so far about the phenology of vascular epiphytes, detect gaps of knowledge, and suggest future lines of investigation to understand the underlying mechanisms. We conducted an online search for articles in Google Scholar and in the ISI Web of Science database from 1800 to 2020, with different combinations of keywords. 107 studies addressing the phenology of different holoepiphyte species were found; 88 % of the studies were performed in the Neotropic, especially in tropical and subtropical wet forests. The phenology of only ca. 2 % (418 spp.) of all reported holoepiphyte species has been explored. There is a bias toward the study of the flowering and fruiting phenology in members of the Orchidaceae (192 spp.) and Bromeliaceae (124 spp.) families. In general, the vegetative and reproductive phenology of epiphytes tends to be seasonal; however, there is a huge gap in our understanding of the proximate and ultimate factors involved. Future research should explicitly focus on studying those factors.

RESUMEN Las epífitas vasculares, que representan cerca del 10 % de la flora vascular y cumplen funciones ecológicas importantes, se han explorado poco desde el punto de vista fenológico. Dado que la fenología es una herramienta clave para el manejo y conservación de especies, el objetivo de este trabajo fue sintetizar la información publicada, detectar vacíos de conocimiento y sugerir líneas de investigación que permitan entender los mecanismos que regulan la fenología de este grupo. Se realizó una búsqueda de artículos en Google Académico y en la base de datos ISI Web of Science desde 1800 a 2020, con diferentes combinaciones de palabras clave. Se encontraron 107 estudios que abordan la fenología de especies holoepífitas, el 88 % de estos estudios se realizaron en el Neotrópico, principalmente en bosques lluviosos tropicales y subtropicales. Solamente se ha estudiado la fenología de ca. 2 % (418 spp.) del total de especies de holoepífitas reportadas; los trabajos se han enfocado principalmente en estudiar la floración y fructificación de miembros de Orchidaceae (192 spp.) y Bromeliaceae (124 spp.). La fenología vegetativa y reproductiva de las epífitas tiende a ser estacional. Sin embargo, existe un vacío enorme de los factores próximos y últimos implicados; los futuros estudios pueden enfocarse a elucidar qué factores detonan la fenología de epífitas vasculares.

Caracterización clínico-patológica de pacientes con cáncer esofágico avanzado en el Hospital Princess Marina, Botsuana / Clinicopathological characterization of patients with advanced esophageal cancer at Princess Marina Hospital, Botswana / Caracterização clínico-patológica de pacientes com câncer de esôfago avançado no Hospital Princess Marina, Botswana

RESUMEN Introducción: El cáncer de esófago avanzado es una de las neoplasias más agresivas con una elevada morbilidad y mortalidad. Botsuana ocupa el duodécimo cuarto puesto mundial con respecto a las muertes ocasionadas por esta enfermedad. Objetivo: Determinar las características clínico-patológicas de los pacientes con cáncer esofágico avanzado en el Hospital Princess Marina de Gaborone, Botsuana. Método: Se realizó un estudio prospectivo-descriptivo donde se caracterizó clínica y patológicamente a 45 pacientes con el diagnóstico endoscópico e histológico de cáncer de esófago avanzado en el periodo de enero a septiembre de 2019. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino (86,7 %) y los pacientes mayores de 60 años (60,0 %). La disfagia, la anorexia y la pérdida de peso fueron los síntomas más frecuentes y prevalecieron los pacientes con un tiempo entre la aparición de los síntomas y el diagnóstico-endoscópico entre tres y seis meses; la dieta inadecuada, el etilismo crónico y el hábito de fumar fueron los factores de riesgo predominantes. La localización anatómica más frecuente fue el tercio medio (51,1 %), el tipo endoscópico predominante fue el vegetante (46,7 %) y la mayoría de los pacientes presentó el tipo histológico carcinoma epidermoide (95,6 %) bien diferenciado (84,4 %). Conclusiones: El estudio de las características clínico-patológicas de los pacientes con cáncer esofágico avanzado permite su correcta estadificación, siendo una herramienta útil en la valoración multidisciplinaria del tratamiento debido a su complejo manejo clínico e institucional.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Advanced esophageal cancer is one of the most aggressive neoplasms with high morbidity and mortality. Botswana ranks 14th in the world for deaths from this disease. Objective: To determine the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with advanced esophageal cancer at the Princess Marina Hospital in Gaborone, Botswana. Method: A prospective-descriptive study was carried out, where 45 patients with endoscopic and histological diagnosis of advanced esophageal cancer were characterized clinically and pathologically, from January to September 2019. Results: Males predominated (86.7%), and also patients older than 60 years (60.0%). Dysphagia, anorexia and weight loss were the most frequent symptoms, and prevailed patients with three to six months between the appearance of symptoms and endoscopic diagnosis; inadequate diet, chronic alcoholism, and smoking were the predominant risk factors. The most frequent anatomical location was the middle third (51.1%), the predominant endoscopic type was the vegetative (46.7%) and most of the patients presented the histological type squamous cell carcinoma (95.6%) well differentiated (84.4%). Conclusions: The study of the clinical-pathological characteristics of patients with advanced esophageal cancer allows its correct staging, being a useful tool in the multidisciplinary assessment of treatment due to its complex clinical and institutional management.

RESUMO Introdução: O câncer de esôfago avançado é uma das neoplasias mais agressivas com alta morbimortalidade. Botswana ocupa o 14º lugar no mundo em mortes por esta doença. Objetivo: determinar as características clínico-patológicas de pacientes com câncer de esôfago avançado no Hospital Princesa Marina em Gaborone, Botsuana. Método: Foi realizado estudo prospectivo-descritivo em que 45 pacientes com diagnóstico endoscópico e histológico de câncer de esôfago avançado foram caracterizados clínica e patologicamente de janeiro a setembro de 2019. Resultados: Predominou o sexo masculino (86,7%) e pacientes com mais de 60 anos ( 60,0%). Disfagia, anorexia e perda de peso foram os sintomas mais frequentes e prevaleceram os pacientes com tempo entre o aparecimento dos sintomas e o diagnóstico endoscópico entre três e seis meses; dieta inadequada, alcoolismo crônico e tabagismo foram os fatores de risco predominantes. A localização anatômica mais frequente foi o terço médio (51,1%), o tipo endoscópico predominante foi o vegetativo (46,7%) e a maioria dos pacientes apresentou o tipo histológico carcinoma espinocelular (95,6%) bem diferenciado (84,4%). Conclusões: O estudo das características clínico-patológicas dos pacientes com câncer de esôfago avançado permite seu correto estadiamento, sendo uma ferramenta útil na avaliação multidisciplinar do tratamento devido ao seu complexo manejo clínico e institucional.

Zinc - rooting cofactor in rubber tree mini-cuttings / Zinco - cofator de enraizamento em miniestacas de seringueira

The rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Müell. Arg.) is a species of significant economic interest in the natural rubber industry in Brazil and the world. This species presents recalcitrance to rooting, and its cuttings are difficult to propagate. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the pre-conditioning of rubber tree mini-cuttings with zinc on the improvement of the adventitious rooting of rootstocks. Mini-cuttings were standardized with 45 mm length and submitted to preconditioning by immersion of the mini-cutting base in solutions containing 0.00; 0.04; 0.08; 0.16; 0.32 and 0.64 mg L-1 of Zn, for 24 hours. The experimental design was randomized blocks with six treatments and four replicates of 10 mini-cuttings. The rubber tree mini-cuttings were placed in a fitotron-type growth chamber, at 25 °C, with 12-hour photoperiod, 5,000 K intensity, and 95% of relative air humidity, for 60 days. The survival rate, number of buds, percentage of mini-cuttings that had leaf abscission, the percentage of mini-cuttings with callogenesis in the root meristem, the percentage of rooted mini-cuttings, the number of primary roots and root length were evaluated. The highest values of survival rate, the number of buds, the number of primary roots, the percentage of mini-cuttings with callogenesis in the root meristem, the percentage of rooted mini-cuttings and root length were observed with 0.16 to 0.26 Mg L-1 of Zn. The use of zinc in the mini-cuttings of rubber tree reduces linearly the percentage of mini-cuttings that had leaf abscission and the formation of callogenesis in the root meristem.

A seringueira (Hevea brasiliensis Müell. Arg.) é uma espécie de importância econômica para a indústria da borracha natural do Brasil e do mundo. Esta espécie apresenta recalcitrância ao enraizamento e suas estacas são difíceis de se propagar. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar o efeito do pré-condicionamento de miniestacas de seringueira com zinco na melhoria do enraizamento adventício de porta-enxertos. As miniestacas foram padronizadas com 45 mm de comprimento e submetidas ao pré-condicionamento por imersão da miniestaca em soluções contendo 0.00; 0,04; 0,08; 0,16; 0,32 e 0,64 mg L-1 de Zn, por 24 horas. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições de 10 miniestacas. As miniestacas de seringueira foram colocadas em câmara de crescimento tipo fitotron, a 25 °C, com fotoperíodo de 12 horas, intensidade de 5.000 K e umidade relativa do ar de 95% por 60 dias. Foram avaliadas a taxa de sobrevivência, o número de gemas, a porcentagem de miniestacas que apresentaram abscisão foliar, o percentual de miniestacas com calogênese no meristema radicular, o percentual de miniestacas enraizadas, o número de raízes primárias e o comprimento das raízes. Os maiores valores de taxa de sobrevivência, o número de gemas, o número de raízes primárias, a porcentagem de miniestacas com calogênese no meristema radicular, o percentual de miniestacas enraizadas e o comprimento radicular foram verificados com 0,16 a 0,26 Mg L-1 de Zn. O uso de zinco nas miniestacas de seringueira reduz linearmente a porcentagem de miniestacas que tiveram abscisão foliar e a formação de calogênese no meristema radicular

How do clonal plantlets of mate respond to different substrate compositions and shading levels? / Como as mudas clonais de erva-mate respondem a diferentes composições de substrato e níveis de sombreamento?

Mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil) is an arboreal species of great economic and socio-environmental importance in South American countries. This specie presents several difficulties during seminal propagation, and studies related to plantlet production by vegetative propagation are fundamental for obtaining homogenous mate plantations with high leaf productivity. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of substrate and shading levels on the morphophysiological quality of mate plantlets produced by mini-cuttings. Rooted mini-cuttings of four mate clones were cultivated on commercial substrate, subsurface soil and vermiculite (2:1:1 v/v/v), commercial substrate and subsurface soil (2:1 v/v) or subsurface soil, cattle manure and carbonized rice hulls (2:1:1 v/v/v). After 120 days, the plantlets were randomly distributed on benches to evaluate the effects of 50 and 80% shading screens. Regardless of the clone, the commercial substrate and subsurface soil composition allowed plantlet production with satisfactory development of both aerial part and root system at 120 days of cultivation. Clone 06SM17 produced plantlets with high averages of stem diameter, shoot height, number of leaves, total length, surface area, total volume of roots, and number of root tips. Both shade levels resulted in similar stem diameters, shoot heights, numbers of leaves, and a, b, and total chlorophyll indices. Clonal mate plantlets with satisfactory morphophysiological quality are produced in commercial substrate and subsurface soil (2:1 v/v) under 50 and 80% shading.

A erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil) é espécie arbórea de grande importância econômica e socioambiental para os países da América do Sul, que apresenta diversas dificuldades de propagação utilizando sementes, sendo os estudos relacionados à produção de mudas dessa espécie por propagação vegetativa fundamentais para a obtenção de ervais homogêneos e com alta produtividade foliar. Diante desse contexto, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito das composições de substratos e dos níveis de sombreamento na qualidade morfofisiológica das mudas de erva-mate produzidas por miniestaquia. Miniestacas enraizadas de quatro clones foram cultivadas em substrato comercial, solo de subsolo e vermiculita (2:1:1 v/v/v), substrato comercial e solo de subsolo (2:1 v/v) ou solo de subsolo, esterco bovino e casca de arroz carbonizada (2:1:1 v/v/v). Após 120 dias, as mudas foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em bancadas para avaliar o efeito do sombreamento de 50 e 80%. Independentemente do clone, a composição substrato comercial e solo de subsolo permitiu a produção de mudas com desenvolvimento satisfatório tanto da parte aérea, quanto do sistema radicular aos 120 dias de cultivo. O clone 06SM17 possibilitou a produção de mudas com altas médias de diâmetros de colo, altura da parte aérea, número de folhas, comprimento total, área superficial, volume total de raízes e número de extremidades das raízes. Os níveis de sombreamento não afetaram o diâmetro de colo, a altura da parte aérea, o número de folhas e os índices de clorofila a, b e total. Mudas clonais de erva-mate com satisfatória qualidade morfofisiológica podem ser produzidas em substrato comercial e solo de subsolo (2:1 v/v) em ambiente com 50% ou 80% sombreamento.

Genetic engineering of crops for insect resistance: An overview

Phytophagous insect incidence is a serious threat for reduction of crop productivity globally. There is anestimation of one fourth of crop is being destroyed by insects annually. Indeed, the development of insectresistant crops is a great milestone in agriculture to increase crop yield and reduce pesticide dependency.Genetic engineering facilitates development of insect resistant crops by expressing bacterial d-endotoxins andvegetative insecticidal proteins and other plant genes like lectins, protease inhibitors, etc. In addition, RNAinterference and genome editing through CRISPR Cas9 also provides new solutions for the development ofinsect-resistant crops. The resultant genetically modified crops showed resistance against lepidopteran, dipteran, homopteran and coleopteran insects. The insect-resistant crops have made a significant economic impactworldwide in terms of higher yield and low pesticide usage. In this review, we focus on different strategies fordeveloping transgenics against insect pest control by expressing different insecticidal proteins in crops

Suspensión de soporte vital en el estado vegetativo permanente y muerte digna / Withdrawal of life support in the permanent vegetative state, and a dignified death

Es frecuente que familiares directos soliciten la suspensión de soporte vital, en particular de la hidratación y nutrición asistidas, en pacientes con estado vegetativo o de mínima conciencia permanente, y que recurran a la justicia en caso de desacuerdo. Dos casos recientes de suspensión, uno del exterior y otro argentino, autorizados por los tribunales respectivos, han sido motivo de controversia. Si bien puede parecer inhumano dejar de alimentar e hidratar, continuar haciéndolo solo prolonga un estado de supervivencia biológica irreversible. Las familias tienden a aceptar la suspensión si el paciente se mantiene sin cambios. Sin embargo, persiste preocupación por el posible sufrimiento desde la suspensión hasta la muerte, aunque el mismo es poco concebible en ausencia de función cortical y de conciencia. Si bien médicos y profanos consideran ético suspender el soporte vital, una cierta proporción de médicos considera que en el estado vegetativo, o más aún, en mínima conciencia, efectivamente se experimenta hambre, sed y dolor. En países como el Reino Unido, se han propuesto criterios de suspensión de soporte vital, y esquemas de tratamiento para el malestar durante el período de suspensión, aunque su beneficio efectivo es controvertido. La Argentina cuenta con recomendaciones de dos sociedades científicas, pero no con criterios reglamentados. Pero tanto la Ley 26.742 de "muerte digna" como el Código Civil consienten la suspensión del soporte vital en el estado vegetativo o de mínima conciencia, si se acompaña de medidas de alivio de los síntomas clínicos que puedan significar sufrimiento.

Patient relatives often request withdrawal of life support, especially artificial nutrition and hydration, in cases of permanent vegetative or minimally conscious state, and resort to court in case of disagreement. Two recent cases of withdrawal authorized by the courts concerned, one from abroad and one from Argentina, have been controversial. Although it may appear inhuman to stop feeding and hydrating such patients, to continue it only prolongs a state of irreversible biological subsistence. Families tend to increasingly accept withdrawal if the patient status remains unchanged. However, concern persists regarding the suffering that patients may undergo from onset of withdrawal till death, even though such suffering is little conceivable in the absence of cortical function and conscience content. While doctors and the layman consider ethical to withdraw life support, a nonnegligible proportion of doctors consider that vegetative state patients, even more minimally conscious state patients, do experience hunger, thirst and pain. In some countries, like the United Kingdom, strict withdrawal criteria were proposed, together with pharmacological treatment schemes for the distress arising during the withdrawal period, even though its benefit is controversial. In Argentina, two scientific societies have publicly advocated withdrawal, but not issued formal guidelines. In any case, both "dignified death" Law 26.742 and the Civil Code consent withdrawal of life support, if accompanied by appropriate relief of clinical symptoms indicating suffering.