Effects of Psidium guajava L. Leaf Powder and Aloe vera L. Gel on Shelf Life of Citrus sinensis L. Fruits

Postharvest loss of fruits is a critical problem due of rapid deterioration during handling, transportation and warehousing. Edible coating over fruits is utilised to boost their quality and shelf life. The effects of leaf extracts of Psidium guajava and Aloe vera gel on the elongation of the shelf life of orange fruits were evaluated. Orange fruits were treated with Guava leaf powder and A. vera gel to assess their effectiveness in extending their shelf life and quality in storage. Weight loss, firmness, post-harvest decay, marketability and shelf life of uncoated and coated samples were evaluated all through the period of this study. Fungi were also isolated from deteriorating samples. A. vera was able to preserve the orange samples for 21 days; P. guajava preserved them for 17 days while the untreated fruit samples stayed for 14 days. Three fungi viz: Botryodiplodia theobromae, Fusarium oxysporum and Rhizopus stolonifer were isolated from the decomposing orange fruits. The result shows that orange fruits coated with A. vera gel and guava leaf powder is effective in extending the shelf-life of orange fruits when compared to untreated fruit (control) in the following order: A. vera>P. guajava > control. The findings from this study indicate that plant extracts could be employed to prolong the shelf life and improve quality of orange fruits.

Potential of X-ray imaging to detect citrus granulation in different cultivars with progress in harvesting time

Granulation, a physiological disorder of citrus is manifested by shriveled juice sacs and internal dryness. Extractable juice in granulated tissue is drastically reduced as a consequence of gelatinization and secondary epidermis formation. Since, the defect cannot be detected externally it leads to consumer dissatisfaction and poor returns to farmers. Processing industry also faces huge economic loss due to reduction in the juice recovery from granulated fruit. In this context, here, we studied the possibility of developing an image processing algorithm through MATLAB software to detect granulation with advancement of maturity via X-ray micrographs. Fruit of eight citrus cultivars comprising of granulation susceptible and tolerant varieties harvested at four different intervals were exposed to X-rays. Voltage of 46 kV and current of 6.5 mA given to fruit for an exposure time of 320 mAs gave the best X-ray image contrasts. The developed algorithm could effectively distinguish the healthy and granulated fruit with an accuracy of 90% as validated by subsequent destructive analysis when estimated for four different harvesting dates. The imaging technique can be employed by the processors to determine the severity of granulation and to sort out fruit online which will help in saving economic losses.

Influência do Consumo de Suco de Laranja (Citrus Sinensis) na Remodelação Cardíaca de Ratos Submetidos a Infarto do Miocárdio / Influence of Consumption of Orange Juice (Citrus Sinensis) on Cardiac Remodeling of Rats Submitted to Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento O suco de laranja (SL) é rico em polifenóis com propriedades anti-inflamatórias e antioxidantes. Após o infarto do miocárdio (IM), mudanças complexas ocorrem na estrutura e na função cardíacas, processo conhecido como remodelação cardíaca (RC). O estresse oxidativo e a inflamação podem modular esse processo. Nossa hipótese foi a de que o consumo de SL atenua a RC após o IM. Objetivos Avaliar a influência do SL sobre a RC após IM pela análise de variáveis funcionais, morfológicas, de estresse oxidativo, de inflação, e de metabolismo energético. Métodos Um total de 242 ratos machos pesando entre 200 e 250g foram submetidos a um procedimento cirúrgico (ligação da artéria coronária ou cirurgia simulada). Sete dia após a cirurgia, os animais sobreviventes foram divididos para um dos quatro grupos: 1) SM, animais sham que receberam água e maltodextrina (n= 20); 2) SSL, animais sham que receberam SL (n= 20); 3) IM, animais infartados que receberam água e maltodextrina (n= 40); e 4) ISL, animais infartados que receberam SL (n = 40). A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de ANOVA com dois fatores com o teste de Holm-Sidak. Os resultados foram apresentados em média ± desvio padrão, e o nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Resultados Três meses depois, o IM levou à hipertrofia do ventrículo esquerdo (VE), com disfunção sistólica e diastólica, e aumento nos mediadores inflamatórios e de estresse oxidativo. Os animais que consumiram SL apresentaram menor atividade da glutationa peroxidase e maior expressão da heme-oxigenase-1 (HO-1). Conclusão O SL atenuou a RC, e a HO-1 pode exercer um importante papel nesse processo.

Abstract Background Orange juice (OJ) is rich in polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. After myocardial infarction (MI), complex changes occur in cardiac structure and function, which is known as cardiac remodeling (CR). Oxidative stress and inflammation can modulate this process. We hypothesized that the consumption of OJ attenuates the CR after MI. Objectives To evaluate the influence of OJ on CR after MI by analysis of functional, morphological, oxidative stress, inflammation, and energy metabolism variables. Methods A total of 242 male rats weighing 200-250 g were submitted to a surgical procedure (coronary artery ligation or simulated surgery). Seven days after surgery, survivors were assigned to one of the four groups 1) SM, sham animals with water and maltodextrin (n= 20); 2) SOJ, sham animals with OJ (n= 20); 3) IM, infarcted animals with water and maltodextrin (n= 40); and 4) IOJ, infarcted animals with OJ (n = 40). Statistical analysis was performed by the two-way ANOVA supplemented by Holm-Sidak. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation, the level of significance adopted was 5%. Results After 3 months, MI led to left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, with systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and increased oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. OJ intake reduced LV cavity and improved systolic and diastolic function. The OJ animals presented lower activity of glutathione peroxidase and higher expression of heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Conclusion OJ attenuated CR in infarcted rats and HO-1 may be play an important role in this process.

Chemical composition and larvicidal activity of essential oil of the bark of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck / Composição Química e atividade larvicida do óleo essencial das cascas do Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck / Composición química y actividad larvicida del aceite esencial de corteza de Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck

SUMMARY Aim: We determined the chemical composition and larvicidal activity of the essential oil distilled from the Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck husks and the pattern of the major constituent. Materials and methods: For this, we distill the oil by hydrodistillation, identify the components by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), test the larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and calculate the lethal concentration at 50% (LC50) by the Reed-Muench method and the confidence interval by the Pizzi method for both oil and standard. Results: It showed that the oil consists mostly of limonene and showed larvicidal activity (LC50 of 199.01 (± 2.10) μg-mL-1) greater than the lemonade standard (126.03 (± 2.09) μg-mL-1). Conclusion: Therefore, we conclude that distilled oil has the potential to replace chemical larvicides.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinamos a composição química e a atividade larvicida do óleo essencial destilado das cascas do Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck e do padrão do constituinte majoritário. Materiais e métodos: Para isso, destilamos o óleo por hidrodestilação, identificamos os componentes por cromatografía gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massas (CG-EM), testamos a atividade larvicida contra o Aedes aegypti e calculamos a concentração letal a 50% (CL50) pelo método Reed-Muench e o intervalo de confiança pelo método de Pizzi tanto para o óleo quanto para o padrão. Resultados: O óleo é constituído em sua maior parte por limoneno e apresentou atividade larvicida (CL50 de 199.01 (± 2,10) μg-mL-1) maior que o padrão limonento (126,03 (± 2,09) μg-mL-1). Conclusões: Portanto, concluímos que o óleo destilado tem potencial para substituir os larvicida químicos.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinamos la composición química y actividad larvicida del aceite esencial destilado de las cáscaras de Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck y el patrón del constituyente mayoritario. Materiales y métodos: Para ello destilamos el aceite por hidrodestilación, identificamos los componentes mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (CG-EM), testeamos la actividad larvicida frente a Aedes aegypti y calculamos la concentración letal al 50% (CL50) por el método Reed- Muench y el intervalo de confianza por el método de Pizzi tanto para aceite como para la muestra estándar. Resultados: El aceite consiste principalmente en limoneno y mostró actividad larvicida (CL50 de 199,01 (± 2,10) μg-mL-1) mayor que el estándar de limonada (126,03 (± 2,09) μg-mL-1). Conclusiones: Por lo tanto, concluimos que el aceite destilado tiene el potencial de reemplazar los larvicidas químicos.

Impregnacıón al vacío de proteínas de lactosuero concentrado en las cáscaras de naranja valencıa (Citrus sinensis)

RESUMEN El objetivo de la investigación fue incorporar compuestos bioactivos provenientes del concentrado del desecho de la industria quesera en cáscaras de naranja variedad Valencia, aplicando la técnica de la impregnación al vacío. Asimismo, fue evaluar los efectos de la presión de vacío (50-60 kPa), tiempo de impregnación (5-15 min) y concentración osmótica de lactosuero (50-60°Brix). Se determinó las características fisicoquímicas y acondicionamiento de la materia prima. El diseño de la investigación para la optimización utilizado fue un diseño Box-Benhken con el programa Design Expert 11, teniendo 15 tratamientos con valores de las variables. El mayor contenido proteico se obtuvo por la combinación de tratamientos, ajustando a las cualidades del equipo, siendo la presión de vacío a 57,0 kPa, concentración de sólidos solubles 54 °Brix y el tiempo de 7,70 min, lo que produjo 3,84 ± 0,10 g de proteínas/100 g de muestra. Finalmente, se evaluó las características fisicoquímicas del producto optimizado, la transferencia de masa, ganancia de agua e incremento de sólidos y se realizó el análisis microbiológico que nos indicó que este alimento es apto para el consumo humano.

ABSTRACT The objective of the research was to incorporate bioactive compounds in orange peels of the Valencia variety from waste concentrate found in the cheese industry, applying the technique of vacuum impregnation. The effects of vacuum pressure (50 - 60 kPa), impregnation time (5-15 min) and osmotic concentration of whey (50-60°Brix) were also evaluated. The physicochemical and conditioning characteristics of raw material were determined. The research design for optimization used was a Box-Benhken design with the Design Expert 11 program, having 15 treatments with variable values. The highest protein content was obtained by the combination of treatments adjusted to equipment qualities: vacuum pressure of 57.0 kPa, soluble solids concentration 54 °Brix and 7.70 min, which produced 3.84 ± 0.104 g protein/100 g of sample. Finally, the physicochemical characteristics of the optimized product, mass transfer, water increase and solids increase were evaluated and microbiological analysis to determine if this food is suitable for human consumption was performed.

Caracterização química, atividade antimicrobiana e toxicidade dos óleos essenciais da Pimenta dioica L. (pimenta da Jamaica) e Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (laranja doce) / Chemical characterization, antimicrobial activity, and toxicity of the essential oils of Pimenta dioica L. and Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (laranja doce)

RESUMO Este estudo avaliou a toxicidade e a atividade antimicrobiana frente a Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus aureus dos óleos essenciais de Pimenta dioica Lindl. e Citrus sinensis L. Os óleos essenciais (OE) foram extraídos por hidrodestilação, com caracterização química através de cromatografía gasosa acoplada a espectrometria de massas (CG-EM). Os parâmetros físico-químicos foram determinados de acordo com a Farmacopeia Brasileira. O ensaio de toxicidade seguiu o bioensaio com Artemia salina Leach, os OE aprovados neste ensaio seguiram para avaliação das suas propriedades biológicas. A atividade antimicrobiana seguiu a metodologia descrita pelo Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute utilizando o método de difusão de disco, diluição em caldo para concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) e posterior concentração bactericida mínima para avaliar a ação dos OE frente a Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus aureus. Ambos os OE apresentaram toxicidade baixa, e assim foram avaliados quanto as propriedades biológicas antimicrobianas. Ambos os OE apresentaram potenciais bactericidas frente aos microrganismos testados, exibindo resultados satisfatórios para a ação deles. Os resultados indicam que os OE avaliados são compostos por substâncias que propiciam e incentivam sua aplicação em virtude de seus potenciais para atividade biológicas moluscicida e antimicrobiana.

SUMMARY This study evaluated the toxicity and antimicrobial activity in the face of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus of essential oils of Pimenta dioica Lindl. and Citrus sinensis L. The essential oils (EO) were extracted by hydrodistillation, with chemical characterization by gas chromatography coupled and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Physicochemical parameters were determined according to the Brazilian Pharmacopeia. The toxicity test followed the bioassay with Artemia salina Leach, the EO approved in this assay followed to evaluate its biological properties. The antimicrobial activity followed the methodology described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute using the disc diffusion method, broth dilution for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and subsequent minimum bactericide concentration for to evaluate the action of EO against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Both OE showed low toxicity, and thus were evaluated for the biological antimicrobial properties. Both OE presented bactericidal potential against the microorganisms tested, showing satisfactory results for their action. The results indicate that the evaluated OE are composed of substances that provide and encourage their application due to their potentials for biological molluscicide and antimicrobial activity.

Chemical composition and in vitro inhibitory effects of essential oils from fruit peel of three Citrus species and limonene on mycelial growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum / Composição química e efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais das cascas dos frutos de três espécies de Citrus e do limoneno sobre o crescimento micelial de Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Abstract Essential oils (EO) from aromatic and medicinal plants generally perform a diverse range of biological activities because they have several active constituents that work in different mechanisms of action. EO from Citrus peel have an impressive range of food and medicinal uses, besides other applications. EO from Citrus reticulata, C. sinensis and C. deliciosa were extracted from fruit peel and analyzed by GC-MS. The major constituent of EO under evaluation was limonene, whose concentrations were 98.54%, 91.65% and 91.27% for C. sinensis, C. reticulata and C. deliciosa, respectively. The highest potential of inhibition of mycelial growth was observed when the oil dose was 300 μL. Citrus oils inhibited fungus growth in 82.91% (C. deliciosa), 65.82% (C. sinensis) and 63.46% (C. reticulata). Anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum activity of 90% pure limonene and at different doses (20, 50, 100, 200 and 300 μL) was also investigated. This monoterpene showed to be highly active by inhibiting 100% fungus growth even at 200 and 300 μL doses. This is the first report of the in vitro inhibitory effect of natural products from these three Citrus species and its results show that there is good prospect of using them experimentally to control S. sclerotiorum, in both greenhouse and field conditions.

Resumo Óleos essenciais de plantas aromáticas e medicinais geralmente exibem uma gama diversificada de atividades biológicas, pois possuem vários constituintes ativos que atuam por meio de vários mecanismos de ação. Os óleos essenciais das cascas de Citrus têm uma variedade impressionante de usos em alimentos, medicamentos entre várias outras aplicações. Os óleos essenciais (OE) de Citrus reticulata, C. sinenses e C. deliciosa foram extraídos das cascas dos frutos e analisados por CG-EM. O limoneno foi o constituinte majoritário encontrado nos óleos essenciais avaliados, nas concentrações de 98,54%, 91,65% e 91,27% para C. sinensis, C. reticulata e C. deliciosa, respectivamente. Os maiores potenciais de inibição do crescimento micelial foi observado na dose de 300 µL dos óleos. Os óleos de Citrus inibiram em 82,91% (C. deliciosa), 65,82% (C. sinensis) e 63,46% (C. reticulata) o crescimento do fungo. A atividade anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum do limoneno 90% puro e em diferentes doses (20, 50, 100, 200 e 300 µL) foi também investigada e este monoterpeno demonstrou-se altamente ativo inibindo 100% o crescimento do fungo inclusive nas doses de 200 e 300 µL. Este é o primeiro relato sobre o efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais destas três espécies de Citrus e os resultados deste estudo mostram que existe uma boa perspectiva de uso destes produtos naturais experimentalmente para controlar o S. sclerotiorum tanto em condições de estufa como em condições de campo.

Estudo da composição química, toxicidade e atividade moluscicida do óleo essencial Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck / Study of the chemical composition, toxicity and molluscicidal activity of the essential oil Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck

RESUMO Determinamos a composição química e testamos a toxicidade e a atividade moluscicida do óleo essencial extraído das cascas do Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck. Para isso, o óleo essencial foi extraído quantitativamente por hidrodestilação. Em seguida, as quantificações de seus componentes foram realizadas por cromatografía gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massas (CG-MS) e a toxicidade e atividade moluscicida foram testadas, respectivamente, contra Artemia salina e caramujos Biomphalaria glabrata. Os resultados mostraram que o óleo contém 81,50% de D-limoneno (constituinte principal) e 0,06% de citronelal (componente menor) e este possui atividade moluscicida com concentração letal (CL50) de 100,08 mg.L-1 e atoxicidade, com CL50 de 321,84 mg.L-1 a um nível de confiança de 95%. Portanto, o óleo é ativo contra o caramujo Biomphalariaglabrata e atóxico para outros seres vivos.

SUMMARY In this present study, we determined the chemical composition and we tested the toxicity and the molluscicidal activity of the essential oil extracted from the barks of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck. For this, the essential oil was extracted quantitatively by hydrodistillation. Then, quantifications of its components were performed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (CG-MS) and the toxicity and molluscicidal activity were tested, respectively, against Artemia salina and snails Biomphalaria glabrata. The results showed that the oil contains 81.50% of D-limonene (main constituent) and 0.06% of citronellal (minor component) and it has lethal activity (LC50) of 100.08 mg.L-1 and a toxicity, with LC50 of321.84 mg.L -1 at a 95% confidence level. Therefore, the oil is active against the snail Biomphalaria glabrata and non-toxic to other living bein.

Gene expression analysis identifies hypothetical genes that may be critical during the infection process of Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri

Background: Gene expression analysis via microarray is widely used in phytobacteria to validate differential gene expression associated with virulence or to compare biological profiles of wild type and mutant strains. Here, we employed DNA microarrays to study the early stages of the infection process (24, 72 and 120 h post-inoculation) of Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xac) infecting Citrus sinensis to interrogate the expression profiles of hypothetical genes. Results: Under infective conditions, 446 genes were up- and 306 downregulated. Outstanding among genes upregulated during infection were those involved in synthesizing the Type 3 Secretion System and effectors, xanthan gum and quorum-sensing induction, and flagellum synthesis and regulation. Additionally, 161 hypothetical genes were up- and 100 were downregulated, 49 of which are known to have a significant biological role. To understand hypothetical gene co-regulation or -expression, nine expression profiles including 158 genes were identified during the three infection phases. Of these, 47 hypothetical genes were identified as having expression profiles associated with at least one connected to a gene associated with adaptation and virulence. Conclusions: Expression patterns of six differentially expressed genes were validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of this tool in global gene expression analysis in Xac.

Lonchaeidae (Diptera) species and their host plants in the Cerrado biome in the state of Piauí, Brazil / Espécies de Lonchaeidae (Diptera) e seus hospedeiros no bioma Cerrado no estado do Piauí, Brasil

Some species of Lonchaeidae (Diptera) are considered frugivorous and polyphagous pests, and are widely distributed in Neotropical regions. The relationship between a fly and its host plant is important for studies on behavior and distribution of frugivorous flies. The objective of this work was to identify the Lonchaeidae fly species and their host plants in the Cerrado biome, specifically in the state of Piauí, Brazil. Eighty-one adults (33 ♀ and 48 ♂) from the genus Neosilba McAlpine (Lonchaeidae), represented by the species Neosilba inesperata Strikis & Prado, Neosilba pendula Bezzi, and Neosilba zadolicha McAlpine, were collected from fruit samples. Oranges [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] and guava (Psidium guajava L.) had the highest frequencies of infestation. A Neosilba species was considered a primary invader in orange. These results are the first ones reported of Lonchaeidae species and their host plants in the state of Piauí.(AU)

Algumas espécies de Lonchaeidae (Diptera) são consideradas pragas frugívoras e polífagas, com ampla distribuição geográfica em regiões neotropicais. A relação mosca/planta hospedeira é de grande valor para estudos de comportamento e distribuição de moscas frugívoras. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar as espécies de Lonchaeidae e suas plantas hospedeiras no bioma Cerrado, especificamente no estado do Piauí, Brasil. Oitenta e um adultos (33 ♀ e 48 ♂) do gênero Neosilba McAlpine (Lonchaeidae), pertencentes às espécies Neosilba inesperata Strikis & Prado, Neosilba pendula Bezzi e Neosilba zadolicha McAlpine, foram coletados de amostras de frutas, sendo a laranja [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] e a goiaba (Psidium guajava L.) as de maiores frequências de infestação. Uma espécie de Neosilba foi considerada um invasor primário em laranjas. Esses resultados são os primeiros relatos de espécies de Lonchaeidae e suas plantas hospedeiras no estado do Piauí.(AU)

HPLC Determination of Four Flavonoids of Aurantii Fructus Immaturus in Niuhuang Qingwei Pills and Genetic Analysis of Medicinal Materials / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective: To establish an high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous determination of four constituents in Niuhuang Qingwei pill (narirutin,naringin,hesperidin,and neohesperidin), and identify the source of Fructus Aurantii Immaturus. Method: The analysis was performed on a Waters CORTECS C18 column (4.6 mm×50 mm,2.7 μm), with acetonitrile-0.12% formic acid solution as the mobile phase for gradient elution. The flow rate was 0.5 mL·min-1, the detection wavelength was set at 283 nm, and the column temperature was 27℃. Result: 12 batches of Niuhuang Qingwei pills showed the different content of flavonoids as Citrus aurantium and C. sinensis. Narirutin,naringin,hesperidin and neohesperidin showed good linear relationships within the ranges of 5.47-2 735 ng (r=0.999 6),7.25-3 625 ng (r=0.999 5),8.41-4 205 ng (r=0.999 4) and 8.36-4 180 ng (r=0.999 5),and their average recoveries were 101.3% (n=6,RSD 2.9%),98.0% (n=6,RSD 1.8%),95.9% (n=6,RSD 0.8%) and 96.0% (n=6,RSD 1.1%), respectively. The contents of narirutin,naringin,hesperidin,neohesperidin and total flavonoids were 0.36-1.28,2.66-4.87,1.02-11.07,3.58-6.41,and 7.98-13.34 mg·g-1, respectively. Conclusion: The developed method was simple,accurate and reliable,which can be used to identify the source of Aurantii Immaturus Fructus and simultaneously determine the content of four flavonoids in Niuhuang Qingwei pills. It could provide basic research for quality control and composition comparison of 2 kinds of Niuhuang Qingwei pills, showing more comprehensive indicators and reference value for the quality standard improvement of Niuhuang Qingwei pill.

Actual evapotranspiration and crop coefficient of sweet orange during the initial development phase in the Rio Largo region, Alagoas / Evapotranspiração real e coeficiente da cultura da laranja lima durante a fase inicial de desenvolvimento na região de Rio Largo, Alagoas

ABSTRACT: Determining actual crop evapotranspiration (ETa) is paramount for irrigation management. The principal measurement methods and physical models generally require crop and weather data that are not readily available. We determined the crop coefficient (Kc) of sweet oranges during the initial development stage and evaluated the performance of the Poulovassilis semi-empirical model coupled with a simple soil water balance for estimating the ETa. The ETa was inferred from the variation in the soil water content over time, measured by time-domain reflectometry. In the Poulovassilis model, the ETa is obtained by multiplying the crop evapotranspiration (ETc) by an adjustment coefficient (ca), which accounts for a reduction in the evapotranspiration caused by soil water depletion. Soil water storage was obtained using the daily and 10-day soil water balances, computed by considering inputs and outputs of water from the system. The empirical parameter, ca, was determined using inverse modeling. The optimal ca value obtained through inverse modeling was 0.05 and 0.03 for the daily and 10-day soil water balances, respectively. The model performed better for the daily soil water balance than the 10-day balance, with performance comparable with the other ETa models. Average Kc during the sweet orange initial crop stage was 0.85.

RESUMO: A determinação da evapotranspiração real da cultura (ETa) é importante para o manejo da irrigação. Os principais métodos e modelos físicos de estimativa da ETa requerem dados que não são facilmente disponíveis. Neste trabalho, obteve-se o coeficiente da cultura (Kc) da laranja lima na fase inicial de desenvolvimento e avaliou-se o desempenho do modelo semi-empírico de Poulovassilis acoplado a um balanço hídrico simplificado na estimativa da ETa. A ETa (medida) foi obtida a partir da variação temporal do conteúdo de água no solo, obtida através da reflectometria no domínio do tempo (TDR). O modelo de POULOVASSILIS et al. (2001) assume que a redução da evapotranspiração da cultura é expressa por uma função exponencial do armazenamento de água do solo e por um coeficiente de ajuste empírico (ca). O armazenamento de água do solo foi obtido através do balanço hídrico (BH), diário e decendial, contabilizando as entradas e saídas de água do sistema. O parâmetro empírico ca foi obtido por modelagem inversa. O valor ótimo de ca obtido por modelagem inversa 0,05 para o BH diário e 0,03 para o BH decendial. O modelo apresentou melhor desempenho para o BH diário, comparável a outros modelos de estimativa da ETa. O Kc médio para fase inicial da laranja lima foi igual a 0,85.

Efeito da administração dos sucos de laranja, cvs. Pera e Moro, sobre o estresse oxidativo e lipídios plasmáticos em indivíduos obesos com resistência à insulina / Effect of orange juice administration, cvs. Pera and Moro, on oxidative stress and plasma lipid profile in obese individuals with insulin resistance

A obesidade é um dos principais fatores etiológicos do desenvolvimento da resistência à insulina, e ambos são responsáveis, em parte, pelo aumento do estresse oxidativo e diabete mellitus tipo 2. Vários estudos têm mostrado os benefícios de uma dieta rica em vegetais e frutas, devido à ação dos compostos bioativos sobre os parâmetros clínicos e estresse oxidativo. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar os efeitos dos sucos de laranja, obtido das variedades Pera e Moro, sobre os marcadores bioquímicos e de estresse oxidativo, em indivíduos com resistência à insulina, classificados através do índice HOMA-IR. Os voluntários foram suplementados durante 15 dias com os sucos de laranja em um ensaio crossover, com washout de 40 dias. Nos dias 0 e 16 de cada ensaio, foram registrados parâmetros antropométricos e de consumo alimentar, e coletadas amostras de sangue e urina pra análises bioquímicas e de estresse oxidativo. A composição de flavonoides entre as variedades de suco foi similar, diferindo no conteúdo de ácido ascórbico e antocianinas do suco de laranja Moro. Não foram observadas mudanças nos parâmetros de estresse oxidativo após a administração dos sucos de laranja, com exceção do 8-OHdG urinário, um marcador de dano oxidativo ao DNA que apresentou-se reduzido após ambas as intervenções. Dados clínicos não foram significativamente modificados, entretanto, observou-se grande variabilidade interindividual nos valores de pressão arterial e lipídios séricos. A partir desta premissa, foi realizada a análise lipidômica do plasma com amostras do ensaio com o suco de laranja cv. Pera e observaram-se reduções significativas nos triglicérides, principalmente aqueles compostos de ácidos graxos saturados ou monoinsaturados, ou contendo ao menos uma cadeia de ácido linoleico, além do aumento de espécies de acilcarnitinas de cadeia longa. O consumo de ambos os sucos de laranja parece exercer um efeito protetor contra o dano oxidativo ao DNA, provavelmente por ação não-enzimática. A análise lipidômica do plasma sugere que o suco de laranja cv. Pera pode modular o metabolismo de lipídios, relacionados à lipogênese de novo e beta-oxidação

Obesity is one of the main etiological factors of insulin resistance development, and both are responsible, in part, for the increase on oxidative stress and Diabetes mellitus type 2 development. Several studies have showed the benefits of a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, due to the action of bioactive compounds on biochemical and oxidative stress parameters. The aim of this study was to study the effects of orange juices obtained by varieties Pera and Moro on oxidative stress and clinical biomarkers, in obese subjects with insulin resistance, classified through the HOMA-IR index. The volunteers consumed both orange juices for 15 days with in a crossover design, with 40-day washout period. On days 0 and 16 of each trial, anthropometric and food consumption parameters were registered, and blood and urine samples were collected to analyze biochemical parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers. The flavonoids content of both juices was similar, but only orange juice from Moro variety contained anthocyanins and higher ascorbic acid content. No changes in oxidative stress markers were found after juice administration, except for urinary 8-OHdG, an oxidative DNA damage marker, which was reduced after both interventions. Clinical data were not significantly modified, but a high interindividual difference was observed in blood pressure and serum lipids. From this point of view, plasma lipidomic analysis was performed with samples of clinical trial with orange juice cv. Pera and showed significant decrease in triglycerides, mainly those with saturated or monounsaturated fatty acids, or containing at least one linoleic acid (related with inflammatory processes), besides the increase of long chain acylcarnitines. The intake of both orange juices appears to have a protective effect against DNA damage, probably by non-enzymatic action. Plasma lipidomic analysis suggests that Pera orange juice can modulate lipid metabolism related to de novo lipogenesis and fatty acid beta-oxidation

Zero-inflated beta regression model for leaf citrus canker incidence in orange genotypes grafted onto different rootstocks / Modelo de regressão beta inflacionado de zeros para a incidência de cancro cítrico foliar em genótipos de laranja enxertados sobre diferentes porta-enxertos

Data with excess zeros are frequently found in practice, and the recommended analysis is to use models that adequately address the counting of zero observations. In this study, the Zero Inflated Beta Regression Model (BeZI) was used on experimental data to describe the mean incidence of leaf citrus canker in orange groves under the influence of genotype and rootstocks of origin. Based on the model, it was possible to quantify the odds that a null observation to mean incidence comes from a particular plant according to genotype and rootstock, and estimate its expected value according to this combination. Laranja Caipira rootstock proved to be the most resistant to leaf citrus canker as well as Limão Cravo proved to be the most fragile. The Ipiguá IAC, Arapongas, EEL and Olímpia genotypes have statistically equivalent chances.

Dados com excesso de zeros são encontrados muitas vezes na prática, e a análise recomendada é utilizar modelos que suportem adequadamente a contagem de observações nulas. Neste artigo, o Modelo de Regressão Beta Inflacionado de Zeros (BeZI) foi aplicado a dados experimentais para descrever a incidência média de cancro cítrico foliar em pomares de laranja sob a influência do genótipo e do porta-enxerto de origem. Com base no modelo, foi possível quantificar as chances de que uma observação nula para a incidência média seja proveniente de uma determinada planta, de acordo com o genótipo e o porta-enxerto, além de estimar o seu valor esperado conforme essa combinação. O porta-enxerto Laranja Caipira mostrou ser o mais resistente ao cancro cítrico foliar, assim como o Limão Cravo mostrou ser o mais suscetível. Os genótipos Ipiguá IAC, Arapongas, EEL e Olímpia apresentaram chances estatisticamente equivalentes.

Genome-wide Identification, Classification and Expression Analysis of the Mildew Resistance Locus O ( MLO ) Gene Family in Sweet Orange ( Citrus sinensis )

ABSTRACT Mildew resistance Locus O (MLO), a gene family specific to plants, plays significant roles in the resistance to powdery mildew (PM) and response to a variety of abiotic stresses, plant growth and development. Despite their importance as barley, rice, wheat, few studies are reported in dicots except Arabidopsis; no global analysis has been performed in the burgeoning model fruit plant sweet orange (Citrus sinensis). The recent release of the genome sequences of C. sinensis provides an opportunity to conduct a comprehensive overview the evolution and features of the MLO gene family in sweet orange. In this study, amount to 14 members of the Citrus sinensis MLO gene (CisMLO) family according to their gene structures, conserved motifs, and similitude among their presumptive Arabidopsis and rice orthologs were identified in silico. Based on these analyses, all CisMLOs were grouped into six clades and expanded partly due to one tandem duplication and two segmental duplication events. Survey of their chromosomal distributions uncovered that 14 CisMLOs are localized across 6 chromosomes. Multiple-sequence alignments showed that 11 of them shared seven highly conserved transmembrane domains (TMs), while all of the sweet orange MLO proteins except CisMLO4/14 had a calmodulin-binding domain for MLO function. Expression analysis demonstrated that the MLO gene family has a diverse tissue-specific expression profiles in the sweet orange development and plays potential critical roles in stress responses. These findings will facilitate further studies of evolutionary pattern and biological functions of MLO genes in sweet orange.

Chemical composition and in vitro inhibitory effects of essential oils from fruit peel of three Citrus species and limonene on mycelial growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Abstract Essential oils (EO) from aromatic and medicinal plants generally perform a diverse range of biological activities because they have several active constituents that work in different mechanisms of action. EO from Citrus peel have an impressive range of food and medicinal uses, besides other applications. EO from Citrus reticulata, C. sinensis and C. deliciosa were extracted from fruit peel and analyzed by GC-MS. The major constituent of EO under evaluation was limonene, whose concentrations were 98.54%, 91.65% and 91.27% for C. sinensis, C. reticulata and C. deliciosa, respectively. The highest potential of inhibition of mycelial growth was observed when the oil dose was 300 L. Citrus oils inhibited fungus growth in 82.91% (C. deliciosa), 65.82% (C. sinensis) and 63.46% (C. reticulata). Anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum activity of 90% pure limonene and at different doses (20, 50, 100, 200 and 300 L) was also investigated. This monoterpene showed to be highly active by inhibiting 100% fungus growth even at 200 and 300 L doses. This is the first report of the in vitro inhibitory effect of natural products from these three Citrus species and its results show that there is good prospect of using them experimentally to control S. sclerotiorum, in both greenhouse and field conditions.

Resumo Óleos essenciais de plantas aromáticas e medicinais geralmente exibem uma gama diversificada de atividades biológicas, pois possuem vários constituintes ativos que atuam por meio de vários mecanismos de ação. Os óleos essenciais das cascas de Citrus têm uma variedade impressionante de usos em alimentos, medicamentos entre várias outras aplicações. Os óleos essenciais (OE) de Citrus reticulata, C. sinenses e C. deliciosa foram extraídos das cascas dos frutos e analisados por CG-EM. O limoneno foi o constituinte majoritário encontrado nos óleos essenciais avaliados, nas concentrações de 98,54%, 91,65% e 91,27% para C. sinensis, C. reticulata e C. deliciosa, respectivamente. Os maiores potenciais de inibição do crescimento micelial foi observado na dose de 300 µL dos óleos. Os óleos de Citrus inibiram em 82,91% (C. deliciosa), 65,82% (C. sinensis) e 63,46% (C. reticulata) o crescimento do fungo. A atividade anti-Sclerotinia sclerotiorum do limoneno 90% puro e em diferentes doses (20, 50, 100, 200 e 300 µL) foi também investigada e este monoterpeno demonstrou-se altamente ativo inibindo 100% o crescimento do fungo inclusive nas doses de 200 e 300 µL. Este é o primeiro relato sobre o efeito inibitório in vitro dos óleos essenciais destas três espécies de Citrus e os resultados deste estudo mostram que existe uma boa perspectiva de uso destes produtos naturais experimentalmente para controlar o S. sclerotiorum tanto em condições de estufa como em condições de campo.

Larvicidal activity of Syzygium aromaticum (L) Merr and Citrus sinensis (L) Osbeck essential oils and their antagonistic effects with temephos in resistant populations of Aedes aegypti

Environmentally friendly botanical larvicides are commonly considered as an alternative to synthetic larvicides against Aedes aegypti Linn. In addition, mosquito resistance to currently used larvicides has motivated research to find new compounds acting via different mechanisms of action, with the goal of controlling the spread of mosquitos. Essential oils have been widely studied for this purpose. This work aims to evaluate the larvicidal potential of Syzygium aromaticum and Citrus sinensis essential oils, either alone or in combination with temephos, on Ae. aegypti populations having different levels of organophosphate resistance. The 50% lethal concentration (LC50) of the essential oils alone and in combination with temephos and the influence of essential oils on vector oviposition were evaluated. The results revealed that essential oils exhibited similar larvicidal activity in resistant populations and susceptible populations. However, S. aromaticum and C. sinensis essential oils in combination with temephos did not decrease resistance profiles. The presence of the evaluated essential oils in oviposition sites significantly decreased the number of eggs compared to sites with tap water. Therefore, the evaluated essential oils are suitable for use in mosquito resistance management, whereas their combinations with temephos are not recommended. Additionally, repellency should be considered during formulation development to avoid mosquito deterrence.

Avaliação da estabilidade da capacidade antioxidante e de parâmetros físico-químicos de néctares de frutas caseiros / Assessment of the antioxidant capacity and of the physicalchemicals parameters stability in homemade fruit nectars

Este estudo avaliou a capacidade antioxidante e os indicadores físico-químicos de néctares caseiros de laranja, manga e maracujá, mantidos sob refrigeração (5 ± 2 o C) por 24 horas. Os néctares foram preparados em laboratório e mantidos sob refrigeração, simulando as condições domésticas. As análises foram realizadas após o preparo (T0) e durante o acondicionamento sob refrigeração (1 h, 4 h e 24 h). Os sólidos solúveis, pH e cor foram determinados respectivamente por refratometria, potenciometria e colorimetria. Carotenoides e ácido ascórbico foram analisados por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência; a concentração de compostos fenólicos foi determinada utilizando-se o reagente de Folin Ciocalteau e a atividade antioxidante pelo teste do DPPH. Ácido ascórbico, β-caroteno e compostos fenólicos foram identificados em todos os néctares. Foram encontrados α-caroteno e β-criptoxantina no néctar de laranja e licopeno no néctar de manga. Durante 24 horas de refrigeração, os compostos analisados e a atividade antioxidante mantiveram-se estáveis. De forma geral, os parâmetros físico-químicos também se mantiveram estáveis durante o período avaliado. Em conclusão, sob as condições utilizadas no presente estudo, os néctares não apresentaram alteração da capacidade antioxidante, podendo ser considerados fontes de carotenoides e vitamina C, mesmo se consumidos após 24 horas de preparo.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and the physical-chemical indicators of homemade nectars of orange, mango and passion fruit, kept under refrigeration (5 ± 2 °C) for 24 hours. The nectars were prepared in laboratory and kept under refrigeration simulating the domestic conditions. The samples analyses were performed after their preparations (T0) and during the refrigerated storage (1 h, 4 h and 24 h). Soluble solids, pH and color were determined by refractometry, colorimetry and potentiometry, respectively. Carotenoids and ascorbic acid were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography, the concentration of phenolic compounds were determined by using Folin Ciocalteau reagent, and the antioxidant activity by the DPPH test. Ascorbic acid, β-carotene and phenolic compounds were identified in all of the analyzed nectars samples. The α-carotene and β-cryptoxanthin were found in orange nectar and the lycopene in mango nectar samples. During the refrigeration for 24 hours, the analyzed compounds and the antioxidant activity remained stable. In general, the physical-chemicals parameters also remained stable during the storage for 24 hours. In conclusion, under the conditions used in this study, the nectars might be considered as antioxidant sources, even if consumed after being prepared 24 hours before.