Influence of garlic extract on larval performance and survival of juvenile angelfish Pterophyllum scalare during transport / Influência do extrato de alho no desempenho larval e na sobrevivência durante o transporte de juvenis de acará bandeira Pterophyllum scalare

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the properties of garlic as a growth promoter in larvae of angelfish Pterophyllum scalare and its benefits during transport of juveniles of this species. The experiment was conducted in recirculation aquaculture system, consisting of 20 tanks of 40 L equipped with independent water input and output. We used 1,400 larvae distributed among five treatments, with four repetitions, which totaled 20 experimental units. The treatments were 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg of garlic extract per kilo of feed. The results showed that the inclusion of levels of garlic extract in the feed did not significantly effect the fish's development or their transport. Neither did the inclusion of levels of garlic extract affect the survival of the larvae during the trial period. New research with extracts of higher dosages should be performed to elucidate the effect of garlic extract as a growth promoter.

Resumo O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as propriedades do alho como promotor de crescimento em larvas de acará bandeira Pterophyllum scalare e seus benefícios no transporte de juvenis da mesma espécie. O experimento foi conduzido em sistema de recirculação composto por 20 aquários de 40 L de volume útil, dotado de entrada e saída de água independentes e teve a duração de 40 dias. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com cinco tratamentos e quatro repetições, totalizando 20 unidades experimentais. Foram utilizadas 1.400 larvas de acará bandeira (Pterophyllum scalare) divididas entre os tratamentos. Os tratamentos consistiram em: 0, 50, 100, 200 e 400 mg de extrato de alho por quilo de ração. Os resultados mostraram que não houve efeito significativo dos níveis de inclusão do extrato do alho sobre os índices zootécnicos avaliados e posteriormente no transporte dos juvenis. Também não foi observado influência na sobrevivência das larvas durante o período experimental. Novas pesquisas com dosagens maiores de extratos devem ser realizados para melhor elucidação do efeito do extrato de alho como promotor de crescimento.

Variations in heterochromatin content reveal important polymorphisms for studies of genetic improvement in garlic (Allium sativum L. ) / Conteúdo de heterocromatina revela polimorfismos importantes para o melhoramento genético do alho (Allium sativum L. )

Abstract Allium sativum L. is an herb of the Alliaceae family with a specific taste and aroma and medicinal and nutraceutical properties that are widely marketed in several countries. Brazil is one of the largest importers of garlic in the world, despite of its production is restricted and limited to internal consumption. Thus, explore the genetic diversity of commercial garlic conserved at germplasm banks is essential to generate additional genetic information about its economically important crop. A suitable tool for this purpose is the cytogenetic characterisation of these accessions. This study aimed to characterise the cytogenetic diversity among seven accessions of garlic from a Germplasm Bank in Brazil. The karyotypes were obtained by conventional staining and with chromomycin A3 (CMA) and 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) fluorochromes. All accessions analysed showed chromosome number 2n = 16, karyotype formula 6M+2SM, symmetrical karyotypes, reticulate interphase nuclei, and chromosomes with uniform chromatin condensation from prophase to metaphase. The fluorochromes staining showed differences in the amount and distribution of heterochromatin along the chromosomes and between accessions studied. Based on the distribution pattern of these small polymorphisms, it was possible to separate the seven accessions into three groups. It was also possible to differentiate some of the accessions individually. One of the results obtained showed a heteromorphic distension of the nucleolar organiser region observed on the chromosome pairs 6 or 7 with peculiar characteristics. It was suggested for example, that the heteromorphic block of heterochromatin (CMA+++/DAPI-) on chromosome 6 of the "Branco Mineiro Piauí" accession can be used as a marker to identify this genotype or may be associated with some character of economic interest.

Resumo Allium sativum L. é uma erva da família Alliaceae com sabor e aroma específicos e propriedades medicinais e nutracêuticas amplamente comercializada em diversos países. O Brasil é um dos maiores importadores de alho do mundo, apesar da sua produção ser restrita e limitada ao consumo interno. Assim, explorar a diversidade genética do alho comercial conservado em bancos de germoplasma é essencial para fornecer informações genéticas adicionais acerca dessa cultura economicamente importante. Uma ferramenta adequada para esse fim é a caracterização citogenética desses acessos. Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a diversidade citogenética entre sete acessos de alho de um Banco de Germoplasma no Brasil. Os cariótipos foram obtidos por coloração convencional e com os fluorocromos de cromomicina A3 (CMA) e 4,6-diamidino-2-fenilindol (DAPI). Todos os acessos analisados ​​apresentaram número cromossômico 2n = 16, fórmula cariotípica 6M + 2SM, cariótipos simétricos, núcleos reticulados em intérfase e cromossomos com condensação uniforme da cromatina da prófase para a metáfase. A coloração com fluorocromos mostrou diferenças na quantidade e distribuição de heterocromatina ao longo dos cromossomos e entre os acessos estudados. Com base no padrão de distribuição desses pequenos polimorfismos, foi possível separar os sete acessos em três grupos. Também foi possível diferenciar individualmente alguns dos acessos. Um dos resultados obtidos mostrou distensão heteromórfica da região organizadora nucleolar observada nos pares dos cromossomos 6 ou 7 com características peculiares. Foi sugerido, por exemplo, que o bloco heteromórfico de heterocromatina (CMA +++ / DAPI-) no cromossomo 6 do acesso "Branco Mineiro Piauí" pode ser usado como um marcador para identificar esse genótipo ou pode estar associado a algum caráter de interesse econômico.

Variations in heterochromatin content reveal important polymorphisms for studies of genetic improvement in garlic (Allium sativum L) / Conteúdo de heterocromatina revela polimorfismos importantes para o melhoramento genético do alho (Allium sativum L)

Allium sativum L. is an herb of the Alliaceae family with a specific taste and aroma and medicinal and nutraceutical properties that are widely marketed in several countries. Brazil is one of the largest importers of garlic in the world, despite of its production is restricted and limited to internal consumption. Thus, explore the genetic diversity of commercial garlic conserved at germplasm banks is essential to generate additional genetic information about its economically important crop. A suitable tool for this purpose is the cytogenetic characterisation of these accessions. This study aimed to characterise the cytogenetic diversity among seven accessions of garlic from a Germplasm Bank in Brazil. The karyotypes were obtained by conventional staining and with chromomycin A3 (CMA) and 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) fluorochromes. All accessions analysed showed chromosome number 2n= 16, karyotype formula 6M+2SM, symmetrical karyotypes, reticulate interphase nuclei, and chromosomes with uniform chromatin condensation from prophase to metaphase. The fluorochromes staining showed differences in the amount and distribution of heterochromatin along the chromosomes and between accessions studied. Based on the distribution pattern of these small polymorphisms, it was possible to separate the seven accessions into three groups. It was also possible to differentiate some of the accessions individually. One of the results obtained showed a heteromorphic distension of the nucleolar organiser region observed on the chromosome pairs 6 or 7 with peculiar characteristics. It was suggested for example, that the heteromorphic block of heterochromatin (CMA+++/DAPI-) on chromosome 6 of the "Branco Mineiro Piauí" accession can be used as a marker to identify this genotype or may be associated with some character of economic interest.

Allium sativum L. é uma erva da família Alliaceae com sabor e aroma específicos e propriedades medicinais e nutracêuticas amplamente comercializada em diversos países. O Brasil é um dos maiores importadores de alho do mundo, apesar da sua produção ser restrita e limitada ao consumo interno. Assim, explorar a diversidade genética do alho comercial conservado em bancos de germoplasma é essencial para fornecer informações genéticas adicionais acerca dessa cultura economicamente importante. Uma ferramenta adequada para esse fim é a caracterização citogenética desses acessos. Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a diversidade citogenética entre sete acessos de alho de um Banco de Germoplasma no Brasil. Os cariótipos foram obtidos por coloração convencional e com os fluorocromos de cromomicina A3 (CMA) e 4,6-diamidino-2-fenilindol (DAPI). Todos os acessos analisados apresentaram número cromossômico 2n = 16, fórmula cariotípica 6M + 2SM, cariótipos simétricos, núcleos reticulados em intérfase e cromossomos com condensação uniforme da cromatina da prófase para a metáfase. A coloração com fluorocromos mostrou diferenças na quantidade e distribuição de heterocromatina ao longo dos cromossomos e entre os acessos estudados. Com base no padrão de distribuição desses pequenos polimorfismos, foi possível separar os sete acessos em três grupos. Também foi possível diferenciar individualmente alguns dos acessos. Um dos resultados obtidos mostrou distensão heteromórfica da região organizadora nucleolar observada nos pares dos cromossomos 6 ou 7 com características peculiares. Foi sugerido, por exemplo, que o bloco heteromórfico de heterocromatina (CMA +++ / DAPI-) no cromossomo 6 do acesso “Branco Mineiro Piauí” pode ser usado como um marcador para identificar esse genótipo ou pode estar associado a algum caráter de interesse econômico.

Influence of garlic extract on larval performance and survival of juvenile angelfish Pterophyllum scalare during transport / Influência do extrato de alho no desempenho larval e na sobrevivência durante o transporte de juvenis de acará bandeira Pterophyllum scalare

The objective of this study was to evaluate the properties of garlic as a growth promoter in larvae of angelfish Pterophyllum scalare and its benefits during transport of juveniles of this species. The experiment was conducted in recirculation aquaculture system, consisting of 20 tanks of 40 L equipped with independent water input and output. We used 1,400 larvae distributed among five treatments, with four repetitions, which totaled 20 experimental units. The treatments were 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg of garlic extract per kilo of feed. The results showed that the inclusion of levels of garlic extract in the feed did not significantly effect the fish’s development or their transport. Neither did the inclusion of levels of garlic extract affect the survival of the larvae during the trial period. New research with extracts of higher dosages should be performed to elucidate the effect of garlic extract as a growth promoter.

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as propriedades do alho como promotor de crescimento em larvas de acará bandeira Pterophyllum scalare e seus benefícios no transporte de juvenis da mesma espécie. O experimento foi conduzido em sistema de recirculação composto por 20 aquários de 40 L de volume útil, dotado de entrada e saída de água independentes e teve a duração de 40 dias. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com cinco tratamentos e quatro repetições, totalizando 20 unidades experimentais. Foram utilizadas 1.400 larvas de acará bandeira (Pterophyllum scalare) divididas entre os tratamentos. Os tratamentos consistiram em: 0, 50, 100, 200 e 400 mg de extrato de alho por quilo de ração. Os resultados mostraram que não houve efeito significativo dos níveis de inclusão do extrato do alho sobre os índices zootécnicos avaliados e posteriormente no transporte dos juvenis. Também não foi observado influência na sobrevivência das larvas durante o período experimental. Novas pesquisas com dosagens maiores de extratos devem ser realizados para melhor elucidação do efeito do extrato de alho como promotor de crescimento.

Review Covid-19 (sars-cov-2) and medicinal plants ­ literature / Revisão Covid-19 (sars-cov-2) e plantas medicinais - literatura / Revisión Covid-19 (sars-cov-2) y plantas medicinales - bibliografía

In December 2019, a new coronavirus originating from the city of Wuhan in China started an epidemic that brought many countries into chaos and despair. SARS-CoV-2, as identified, gave rise to the severe acute respiratory syndrome called COVID-19. Its transmission happens through droplets of saliva, hand or contaminated surfaces. Since its discovery, COVID-19 has led many to death, therefore, researchers from around the world have joined efforts to develop strategies to contain the virus. In this race, drugs such as Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine have become possible options for showing an antiviral effect, however, studies contest their efficiency, generating uncertainties. Therefore, other alternatives have been investigated in this context, and the study of medicinal plants has been the target of research for the treatment of COVID-19 in search of bioactive natural products that can exert an antiviral action. The study aimed to analyze the published literature on COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) and its relationship with medicinal plants. Bibliographical survey. So far, no specific treatment against the disease has been found, only supportive, with drugs that aim to improve the individual's immune system and ensure that the virus does not replicate, for example, there are options such as chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, remdesivir and convalescent plasma. On the other hand, studies have revealed that medicinal plants such as garlic, among others, showed efficiency in modulating proteins with a view to preventing viral replication and improving immunity against COVID-19. So far, there are no drugs that are completely safe and have been shown to have activity against the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). However, medicinal plants can contribute to the development of specific therapies against SARS-CoV-2 in a safe and effective way.

Em dezembro de 2019, um novo coronavírus originário da cidade de Wuhan, na China, iniciou uma epidemia que levou muitos países ao caos e ao desespero. O SARS-CoV-2, conforme identificado, deu origem à síndrome respiratória aguda grave chamada COVID-19. Sua transmissão acontece através de gotículas de saliva, mãos ou superfícies contaminadas. Desde sua descoberta, o COVID-19 levou muitos à morte, por isso, pesquisadores de todo o mundo uniram esforços para desenvolver estratégias para conter o vírus. Nesta corrida, medicamentos como Cloroquina e Hidroxicloroquina tornaram-se opções possíveis por apresentarem efeito antiviral, porém, estudos contestam sua eficiência, gerando incertezas. Portanto, outras alternativas têm sido investigadas nesse contexto, e o estudo de plantas medicinais tem sido alvo de pesquisas para o tratamento da COVID- 19 em busca de produtos naturais bioativos que possam exercer ação antiviral. O estudo teve como objetivo analisar a literatura publicada sobre COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) e sua relação com plantas medicinais. Levantamento bibliográfico. Até o momento, não foi encontrado nenhum tratamento específico contra a doença, apenas de suporte, com medicamentos que visam melhorar o sistema imunológico do indivíduo e garantir que o vírus não se replique, por exemplo, há opções como cloroquina, hidroxicloroquina, remdesivir e convalescença plasma. Por outro lado, estudos revelaram que plantas medicinais como o alho, entre outras, mostraram eficiência na modulação de proteínas visando prevenir a replicação viral e melhorar a imunidade contra a COVID-19. Até o momento, não existem medicamentos completamente seguros e que tenham demonstrado atividade contra o novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2). No entanto, as plantas medicinais podem contribuir para o desenvolvimento de terapias específicas contra o SARS-CoV-2 de forma segura e eficaz.

En diciembre de 2019, un nuevo coronavirus originario de la ciudad de Wuhan, en China, inició una epidemia que sumió a muchos países en el caos y la desesperación. El SARS-CoV- 2, tal y como fue identificado, dio lugar al síndrome respiratorio agudo severo denominado COVID-19. Su transmisión se produce a través de gotitas de saliva, de las manos o de superficies contaminadas. Desde su descubrimiento, el COVID-19 ha llevado a muchos a la muerte, por lo que investigadores de todo el mundo han aunado esfuerzos para desarrollar estrategias de contención del virus. En esta carrera, fármacos como la Cloroquina y la Hidroxicloroquina se han convertido en posibles opciones por mostrar un efecto antiviral, sin embargo, los estudios refutan su eficacia, generando incertidumbres. Por lo tanto, otras alternativas han sido investigadas en este contexto, y el estudio de las plantas medicinales ha sido el objetivo de la investigación para el tratamiento de COVID-19 en busca de productos naturales bioactivos que puedan ejercer una acción antiviral. El estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la literatura publicada sobre el COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) y su relación con las plantas medicinales. Estudio bibliográfico. Hasta el momento, no se ha encontrado un tratamiento específico contra la enfermedad, sólo de soporte, con fármacos que buscan mejorar el sistema inmunológico del individuo y asegurar que el virus no se replique, por ejemplo, existen opciones como la cloroquina, hidroxicloroquina, remdesivir y plasma convaleciente. Por otro lado, estudios han revelado que plantas medicinales como el ajo, entre otras, mostraron eficacia en la modulación de proteínas con vistas a impedir la replicación viral y mejorar la inmunidad contra el COVID-19. Hasta el momento, no existen medicamentos que sean completamente seguros y que hayan demostrado tener actividad contra el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Sin embargo, las plantas medicinales pueden contribuir al desarrollo de terapias específicas contra el SARS-CoV-2 de forma segura y eficaz.

Garlic oil as a fight against histological and oxidative stress abnormalities in Wistar rats after oral inoculation of Anisakis spp. Type II (L3) (Nematoda) / [O uso do óleo de alho na luta contra anormalidades histológicas e de estresse oxidativo em ratos Winstar após inoculação oral de Anisakis spp. Tipo II (L3) (Nematoda)]

The consumption of inadequately thermally treated fish is a public health risk due to the possible propagation of Anisakis larvae and their antigenic proteins, the causative agent of the zoonotic disease anisakidosis. The present study demonstrated the physiological and histopathological changes that accompanied an oral inoculation of crude extracts from fresh and thermally treated Anisakis Type II (L3) in Wistar albino rats. Nematode worms were isolated from the marine fish Dicentrarchus labrax. They were examined and taxonomically identified using light and scanning electron microscopy. The study was performed in 6 rat groups: a control group (I), a garlic oil (GO) inoculated group (II), a fresh L3 inoculated group (III), a thermally treated L3 inoculated group (IV), a fresh L3 + GO inoculated group (V), and a thermally treated L3 + GO inoculated group (VI). It was observed that rats inoculated with fresh and thermally treated L3 crude extracts showed abnormal oxidative stress markers associated with the destruction of normal architecture of spleen and thymus. GO produced a protective effect in rat groups inoculated with L3 extracts + GO administration via the amelioration of oxidative stress markers, which was confirmed by the marked normal structure of the organs' histology. Cooking of L3 infected fish induced severe physiological and histopathological alterations compared to uncooked infected fish. The administration of garlic before and after fish eating is recommended to avoid the dangerous effect of anisakids, even if they are cooked.(AU)

O consumo de peixes tratados termicamente de forma inadequada é um risco à saúde pública devido à possível propagação das larvas de Anisakis e suas proteínas antigênicas, o agente causador da doença zoonótica anisakidose. O presente estudo demonstrou as alterações fisiológicas e histopatológicas que acompanharam a inoculação oral de extratos brutos de Anisakis Tipo II (L3) frescos e termicamente tratados em ratos Wistar albinos. Vermes nematoides foram isolados do peixe marinho Dicentrarchus labrax e foram examinados e identificados taxonomicamente usando microscopia óptica e eletrônica de varredura. O estudo foi realizado em 6 grupos de ratos: grupo controle (I), grupo inoculado com óleo de alho (GO) (II), grupo inoculado com L3 fresco (III), grupo inoculado com L3 tratado termicamente (IV), grupo inoculado com L3 + GO fresco (V), e grupo inoculado com L3 + GO tratado termicamente (VI). Observou-se que ratos inoculados com extrato bruto L3 fresco e tratado termicamente mostraram marcadores de estresse oxidativo anormais associados à destruição da estrutura normal do baço e do timo. GO produziu um efeito protetor em grupos de ratos inoculados com extrato L3 + administração de GO através da melhoria dos marcadores de estresse oxidativo, que foi confirmada pela marcante estrutura normal da histologia dos órgãos. O cozimento de peixes infectados com L3 induziu alterações fisiológicas e histopatológicas graves quando comparado com peixes infectados não cozidos. Recomenda-se a administração de alho antes e depois da ingestão do peixe para evitar o efeito perigoso dos anisakídeos, mesmo se cozidos.(AU)

Actividad antimicrobiana de propóleos de abejas sin aguijón en combinación con ajo, Allium sativum (Amaryllidaceae) / Stingless bees propolis antimicrobial activity in combination with garlic, Allium sativum (Amaryllidaceae)

The excessive use of antibiotics has increased pathogenic microorganisms resistance, which derives in patient mortality. Therefore, the strategies for searching new natural and unconventional strategies has become constant and important. Objective: To determine the antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) against stingless bees propolis. Methods: We evaluated nine (20 %) propolis from stingless bees ethanolic extracts from different regions: Melipona beecheii, Melipona solani, Tetragonisca angustula and Scaptotrigona mexicana. The chemical characterization was performed by liquid chromatography (HPLC) and microbial resistance tests by the macrodilution method, to determine the effect of the combinations. Results: The compounds that were of interests and the most abundant were the following; hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanones, flavonoids and the glycosylated derivatives. Four of the nine propolis were effective against MRSA, which came from the following species; one from M. solani and three from S. mexicana. The minimum inhibitory concentration for S. mexicana was in the range of 3-8 mg mL-1 and for M. solani it was 4 mg mL-1. Isobolographic studies resulted in an additive effect (ɤ = 1) for the combination of Allium sativum with the S. mexicana propolis sambles and an antagonistic effect (ɤ > 1) for the combination of A. sativum with the propolis of M. solani. Conclusions: the combination of extracts with lower concentrations of A. sativum, may be the most effective, than those that were individually tested. More detailed studies are required to define the mechanisms of stingless bees propolis as well as their combination with other organic substances.

Introducción: El uso excesivo de antibióticos ha traído el aumento de resistencia en los microorganismos patógenos que provocan mortalidad de los pacientes. Por consiguiente, la búsqueda de nuevas estrategias naturales y no convencionales se ha vuelto constante e importante. Objetivo: Determinar la actividad antimicrobiana contra Staphylococcus aureus resistente a meticilina (SARM) de los propóleos por abejas sin aguijón. Métodos: Nueve fueron los extractos etanolicos de propóleos al 20 % de las abejas sin aguijón de distintas regiones: de Melipona beecheii, de Melipona solani, de Tetragonisca angustula y de Scaptotrigona mexicana. Se realizó la caracterización química de los compuestos por cromatografía liquida y las pruebas de resistencia microbiana por el método de macrodilución para determinar el efecto de las combinaciones. Resultados: Los compuestos de interés fueron detectados, y destacan como los más abundantes los ácidos hidroxicinámicos, flavanonas, flavonoides y sus derivados glicosilados. Cuatro de los nueve propóleos resultaron efectivos contra SARM, los cuales provinieron, uno de Melipona solani y tres de Scaptotrigona mexicana. La CMI para S. mexicana está en el rango de 3-8 mg mL-1 y para M. solani fue de 4 mg mL-1. Los estudios isobolográficos dieron como resultado un efecto aditivo (ɤ = 1) para la combinación de Allium sativum con los 3 propóleos de S. mexicana y un efecto antagónico (ɤ > 1) para la combinación de A. sativum con el propóleos de M. solani. Conclusiones: la combinación de extractos menores puede ser más efectiva que usando la CE50 de los extractos de forma individual. Se requieren estudios más detallados para definir los mecanismos de los propóleos de las abejas sin aguijón, así como su combinación con otras sustancias orgánicas.

Etude préliminaire de l'effet de l'ail (Allium sativum L) chez des malades atteints du SARS-CoV-2 / Preliminary study of the effect of garlic (Allium sativum L) in patients with SARS-CoV-2

Introduction : En peu de temps, une flambée épidémique localisée de COVID 19 s'est transformée en une pandémie mondiale avec un taux brut de létalité supérieur à 3 %. L'objectif de notre travail était d'observer l'effet de l'ail (Allium sativum L.) chez les malades atteints du coronavirus COVID 19. Matériel et Méthodes : Il s'agit d'une étude d'intervention avant et après menée chez des personnes déclarées PCR positive ayant développées des formes plus ou moins sévères de la maladie et ont mal réagi au schéma thérapeutique reçu à domicile. La dose administrée est de 6 caïeux moyens (24g) d'ail écrasés trois fois par jour pendant trois jours. Résultats : une amélioration de l'état général avec disparition de la plupart des symptômes (fièvre, céphalées, asthénie, agueusie, anosmie et diarrhées) a été observée dès le deuxième jour du traitement chez tous les patients. Conclusion : Les résultats obtenus après utilisation de l'ail chez les malades atteints du SARS-CoV-2 nous encouragent à lancer une étude en milieu hospitalier sur un échantillon plus important afin de renforcer les résultats de cette étude préliminaire par des tests statistiques appropriés.

Introduction: In a short time, a localized outbreak of COVID 19 has evolved into a global pandemic with a crude case fatality rate of over 3%. The objective of our work was to observe the effect of garlic (Allium sativum L.) in patients with the COVID 19 coronavirus. Material and Methods: This is an intervention study before and after carried out in people declared PCR positive who have developed more or less severe forms of the disease and have reacted badly to the treatment regimen received at home. The administered dose is 6 medium cloves (24g) of crushed garlic three times a day for three days. Results: An improvement in the general condition with resolution of most of the symptoms (fever, headache, asthenia, ageusia, anosmia and diarrhea) was observed from the second day of treatment in all patients. Conclusion: The results obtained after using garlic in patients with SARS-CoV-2 encourage us to initiate a study in a hospital setting on a larger sample in order to strengthen the results of this preliminary study with appropriate statistical tests.

Principales plantas medicinales disponibles en Guatemala con actividad contra virus respiratorios que infectan al ser humano ­ Revisión narrativa / Main medicinal plants available in Guatemala with activity against respiratory virus that infects the human being ­ Narrative review

Las infecciones respiratorias constituyen una importante causa de morbilidad y mortalidad a nivel mundial, incrementándose su relevancia ante la reciente infección por SARS-CoV-2, causante de la pandemia de COVID-19. Las opciones terapéuticas para esta infección respiratoria son escasas y sin eficacia comprobada. El objetivo de esta revisión fue buscar la información sobre plantas con actividad antiviral o viricida publicada en los últimos 10 años, en las bases de datos de Google Scholar, Scopus y PubMed. La búsqueda priorizó aquellas especies disponibles en Guatemala, la cual se complementó con la búsqueda de moléculas con actividad antiviral para finalmente postular aquellas que puedan prevenir la infección o aminorar la patogénesis del SARS-CoV-2. Se detectaron más de 170 especies con actividad antiviral y se organizó la información por país o región y tipo de actividad antiviral contra virus específicos. De las especies de mayor disponibilidad en Guatemala se seleccionaron 20. La revisión culmina con 15 artículos que proponen plantas o moléculas con potencial actividad específica en el manejo de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2. Se concluye que existen especies vegetales (Curcuma longa, Echinacea purpurea, Psidium guajava, Allium sativum, Salvia officinalis y Eucalyptus globulus) y fitocompuestos vegetales (hesperidina, rutina, diosmina, apiina, aloe-emodina, piperina, capsaicina, curcumina, oleuropeina, rhamnetina y gallato de epicatequina) que podrían contribuir al manejo de la enfermedad. Se insta a académicos y autoridades a poner más atención a estas opciones terapéuticas que nos ofrece la naturaleza y que podrían contribuir a aliviar el colapso de los sistemas de salud prevalentes.

Respiratory infections are an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, increasing their relevance by the recent SARS-CoV-2 infection causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Therapeutic options for this respiratory infection are scarce and without proven effectiveness. The objective of this review was the search for information on plants with antiviral or viricidal activity published in the last 10 years in the Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed databases. The search prioritized those species available in Guatemala, was completed with the search of molecules with potential to prevent infection or reduce the activity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. More than 170 species with antiviral activity were detected and the information organized in surveys by country or region, activity against specific viruses and antiviral information on the 20 most commonly available species in the country. It is complemented with a summary of 15 articles that proposed plants or molecules with potential specific activity in the management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. It is concluded there are plant species (Curcuma longa, Echinacea purpurea, Psidium guajava, Allium sativum, Salvia officinalis and Eucalyptus globulus) and phytocompounds isolated from these species (hesperidin, rutin, diosmin, apiine, aloe-emodin, piperine, capsaicin, curcumin, oleuropein and epicatechin gallate) that could contribute to the management of the disease. Academics and authorities are urged to pay more attention to these therapeutic options that nature offer to us and could contribute to alleviate the collapse of the prevailing health systems in the country.

Non-destructive evaluation of the leaf area of garlic crop using mathematical models / Avaliação não-destrutiva da área foliar da cultura do alho através de modelos matemáticos

Growth measurements such as leaf area (LA) and dry matter (DM) are important in experiments about plants population, fertilization, irrigation and others parameters of cultivation, in garlic crop. The LA and DM are commonly defined as destructive, lengthy and cause loss of plants in the experimental units. The objective of this study was to fit mathematical models using linear models that estimate the leaf area and dry matter of garlic plants - variety Ito. For that, garlic plants were collected at 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 115 and 120 days after planting. The measurements of width (W), length (L) of leaves, LA, DM, pseudostem diameter (PD), number of leaves per plant (NL) and height (H) were determined in each time. The models were fitted to estimate the LA or DM as function of the variables W, L, L*W, PD and LA. The statistical analysis of the linear regression, coefficient of determination of the linear regression (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), modified concordance index (d1) and the BIAS index were verified to determine the most representative models. It`s possible to estimate the LA and the leaf DM of garlic plants using the variables: length, width, pseudostem diameter and height of plants.

Medidas de crescimento como área foliar (AF) e matéria seca (MS) são importantes em experimentos com população de plantas, adubação, irrigação e outros parâmetros de cultivo, na cultura do alho. Muitas vezes a AF e MS são definidas por avaliações destrutivas, demoradas e com perdas de plantas nas unidades experimentais. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, definir modelos matemáticos através de medidas lineares, que estimem a área foliar e a matéria seca das folhas de plantas de alho da variedade Ito. Para isso, quinze plantas foram coletadas aos 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 115 e 120 dias após o plantio (DAP). As medidas de largura (L), comprimento (C) das folhas, AF, MS, diâmetro do pseudocaule (DP), número de folhas por planta (NF) e altura da planta (AP) foram determinadas em cada época. Ajustaram-se modelos para estimar a AF ou MS em função das variáveis L, C, L*C, DP e AF. Para determinar os modelos mais representativos foram verificados a análise estatística da regressão linear, o coeficiente de determinação da regressão linear (R2), raiz do quadrado médio do erro (RQME), índice de concordância modificado (d1) e o índice BIAS. É possível estimar a AF e MS foliar de plantas de alho através das variáveis comprimento, largura, diâmetro do pseudocaule e altura de plantas.

Medicinal plants for Dermatophytosis: Senna Alata (Linn.) Roxb., Allium sativum (Linn.) and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf

@#Skin mycoses have been a major problem affecting millions around the globe. The threat of resistance to synthetic antifungal agents however is a major obstacle in its management. As an alternative to these, a thorough investigation of natural products is being performed to develop medicines that are effective and safe. In this review, we described three antifungal herbal plants that are available in the Philippines, namely Senna alata (Linn.) Roxb. (akapulko), Allium sativum (Linn.) (garlic) and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (lemongrass). In vitro studies showed promising results that can be used as a basis for drug formulation for community use as well as commercial products. So far, there have been no reported toxic effects from these plants. The common ground for these plants’ mechanism of action was the effect of their phytochemicals in the cell membrane and cell wall organelles, inhibition of major biosynthetic pathways, and prevention of biofilm formation. Formulation and clinical studies also revealed promising results comparable to the synthetic ones.

Different effects of heating and freezing treatments on the antioxidant properties of broccoli, cauliflower, garlic and onion. An experimental in vitro study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Vegetables have some beneficial effects on human health due to their antioxidant compounds, like polyphenols. Cooking leads to many physical and chemical changes to plant structure that can alter the phytochemical compounds of vegetables. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of heat treatment and freezing on the antioxidant properties of garlic, onion, broccoli and cauliflower. DESIGN AND SETTING: Experimental in vitro study in a university laboratory. METHODS: Fresh broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa) were obtained from a local store. These vegetables were divided into three treatment groups: raw, heated and frozen. The heat treatment consisted of heating them in a drying oven at 150 °C for 20 minutes. The freezing treatment consisted of keeping them frozen at -20 °C until analysis. The total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and malondialdehyde levels of the vegetables were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu phenol reagent, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, respectively. RESULTS: Heat treatment had deleterious effects on the antioxidant properties of onion and garlic; and it decreased the antioxidant activity of broccoli. Freezing improved the antioxidant activity of broccoli and garlic, but had detrimental effects for cauliflower and onion. CONCLUSIONS: Heat treatment and freezing exhibit different effects on the antioxidant properties of broccoli, cauliflower, garlic and onion. Convenient cooking and storage patterns should be identified for each vegetable, to obtain the best nutritional benefit from the antioxidant compounds of vegetables.

The effect of Allium sativum in experimental peritoneal adhesion model in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of garlic on formation of postoperative adhesions in rats. Methods: Twenty-four Sprague dawley rats were divided into three groups. In Group 1 (sham), laparotomy was performed and stitched up. In Group 2 (control), after laparotomy was performed, punctate hemorrhage was induced by cecal abrasion in the cecum and 2 cc of saline was intraperitoneally administered to each rat. In Group 3 (experimental), after laparotomy was performed, punctate hemorrhage was induced by cecal abrasion in the cecum and each rat was intraperitoneally administered a sterile Allium sativum derivative. The rats in all groups were re-laparotomized on postoperative day 7; samples were obtained from the peritoneal tissue surrounding the cecum Results: In Group 3, there was a statistically significant difference in terms of inflammation, lymph node size, and free oxygen radicals; these parameters tended to increase. In terms of fibrosis evaluated using H&E and MT, there was no significant difference between groups 2 and 3. Conclusions: No positive outcomes indicating that Allium sativum reduces intra-abdominal adhesions were obtained. However, it caused severe inflammation in the tissue. Additionally, in immunohistochemical analyses conducted to detect oxidative stress, allium sativum increased the production of free oxygen radicals in the tissue.

Avaliação do potencial antibacteriano do extrato aquoso de alho (Allium sativum) em hambúrgueres de carne bovina e sua correlação com a qualidade sensorial / Evaluation of the antibacterial potential of aqueous garlic extract (Allium sativum) in bovine meat hamburgers and its correlation with sensory quality

O risco de Doenças Veiculadas por Alimentos - DVA em hambúrgueres pode ser minimizado pelo uso de antimicrobianos naturais. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de diferentes concentrações do Extrato Aquoso de Alho - EAA na inibição de Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Cronobacter sakazakii, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus e Bacillus cereus e avalia r sensorialmente as amostras de hambúrguer adicionadas de EAA. Os resultados indicaram que o EAA inibiu o crescimento das cepas bacterianas, sendo a ação inibitória proporcional às concentrações usadas sendo que a refrigeração a 7°C por 72 h do EAA não afetou seu efeito inibitório. Na análise sensorial, houve boa aceitabilidade e intenção de compra positiva para as amostras, com destaque para aquelas com maior concentração de EAA (1000μL/mL).

The Effect of Garlic and Voluntary Exercise on Cardiac Angiogenesis in Diabetes: The Role of MiR-126 and MiR-210 / O Efeito do Alho e de Exercícios Físicos Voluntários na Angiogênese Cardíaca no Diabetes: O Papel do miRNA-126 e do miRNA-210

Abstract Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, leading to endothelial dysfunction and angiogenesis impairment . MiR-126 and miR-210 support angiogenic response in endothelial cells. Objective: The present study sought to explore the effect of garlic and voluntary exercise, alone or together, on miR-126 and miR-210 expressions and cardiac angiogenesis in rats with type 1 diabetes. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n = 7): Control, Diabetes, Diabetes+Garlic, Diabetes+Exercise, and Diabetes+Garlic+Exercise. Diabetes was induced in the animals by streptozotocin (ip, 50 mg/kg). The rats were then fed raw fresh garlic homogenate (250 mg/kg) or were subjected to voluntary exercise, or to combined garlic and voluntary exercise for 6 weeks. MiR-126 and miR-210 expressions in the myocardium were determined by real time PCR, and the serum lipid profile was measured by enzymatic kits. Angiogenesis was evaluated by immunostaining for PECAM-1/ CD31 in the myocardium. Results: Diabetes reduced both cardiac miR-126 expression and angiogenesis (p < 0.05). On the other hand, there was a miR-210 expression increase in the myocardium of diabetic animals (p < 0.001). However, those effects reversed either with garlic or voluntary exercise (p < 0.01). Moreover, treating diabetic rats with garlic and voluntary exercise combined had an additional effect on the expressions of miR-126 and miR-210 (p < 0.001). Furthermore, both voluntary exercise and garlic significantly improved serum lipid profiles (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The induction of diabetes decreased angiogenesis in the myocardium, whereas our treatment using long-term voluntary exercise and garlic improved myocardial angiogenesis. These changes were possibly owing to the enhancement of myocardial miR-126 and miR-210 expressions.

Resumo Fundamento: O diabetes mellitus (DM) é um dos principais fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares, levando à disfunção endotelial e inibição da angiogênese. O miRNA-126 e o miRNA-210 promovem a resposta angiogênica em células endoteliais. Objetivo: O presente estudo buscou explorar o efeito do alho e de exercícios físicos voluntários, isoladamente ou em conjunto, nas expressões do miRNA-126 e do miR-210 e na angiogênese cardíaca em ratos com diabetes tipo 1. Métodos: Ratos Wistar machos foram divididos em cinco grupos (n = 7): Controle, Diabetes, Diabetes+Alho, Diabetes+Exercícios e Diabetes+Alho+Exercícios. Introduziu-se diabetes nos animais por estreptozotocina (ip, 50 mg/kg). Os ratos foram então alimentados com homogenato de alho fresco cru (250 mg/kg), ou foram submetidos a exercícios voluntários, ou a uma combinação de alho e exercícios voluntários, durante 6 semanas. As expressões do miRNA-126 e do miRNA-210 no miocárdio foram determinadas por PCR em tempo real, e o perfil lipídico sérico foi medido por kits enzimáticos. A angiogênese foi avaliada por imunocoloração por PECAM-1/CD31 no miocárdio Resultados: O diabetes reduziu a expressão do miRNA-126 cardíaco e da angiogênese (p < 0,05). Por outro lado, houve um aumento da expressão do miRNA-210 no miocárdio dos animais diabéticos (p < 0,001). No entanto, tais efeitos foram revertidos com alho ou exercícios voluntários (p < 0,01). Além disso, o tratamento de ratos diabéticos conjuntamente com alho e exercícios voluntários teve um efeito adicional sobre as expressões do miRNA-126 e do miRNA-210 (p < 0,001). Além disso, tanto os exercícios voluntários quanto o alho melhoraram significativamente os perfis lipídicos séricos (p < 0,001). Conclusões: A indução de diabetes diminuiu a angiogênese no miocárdio, enquanto nosso tratamento com exercícios voluntários de longa duração e alho melhorou a angiogênese miocárdica. Estas alterações devem-se, possivelmente, ao aumento das expressões do miRNA-126 e do miRNA no miocárdio.

The effect of single-bulb garlic oil extract toward the hematology and histopathology of the liver and kidney in mice

Single garlic has been used as a traditional medicine for hypercholesterolemia and increasing stamina. The aim of this research was to analyze the effect of single-bulb garlic oil (SGO) extract toward hematology and histopathology liver and kidney in mice. Male mice (strain Balb-C, 12 weeks old, weight of 28±3 g) was treated by SGO for 28 days (once per days) with various doses K- (Normal); K+ (SGO 0.0 mg/kg BW); T1 (SGO 6.25 mg/kg BW); T2 (SGO 12.5 mg/kg BW); T3 (SGO 25.0 mg/kg BW); T4 (SGO 50.0 mg/kg BW). The end of the treated mice was sacrificed. Blood was collected to analyze hematology. Liver and kidney were collected then made microanatomy slide with Hematoxylin-Eosin staining. Parameters of hematology are the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, number of erythrocytes, and number of leukocytes. Histopathology of liver and kidney determine by cell necrosis. The result of the research showed that SGO increased the number of erythrocytes and leucocytes but there is no effect on the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit. Histopathology on liver and kidney showed there is no effect in necrosis. The conclusion is the single-bulb garlic oil extract safe if consumed continuously

Anti-inflammatory effect of aged black garlic on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced dermatitis in mice

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Although aged black garlic has various biological activities such as anti-allergy, anti-inflammation and neuroprotection, effect of aged black garlic on chemically contact dermatitis is unclarified. MATERIALS/METHODS: To evaluate anti-dermatitic activity of aged black garlic extract, we investigated effects of a fraction of aged black garlic extract (BG10) on both in vivo and in vitro. RESULTS: BG10 almost inhibited formation of nitric monoxide and interleukin-6 (IL-6; IC50, 7.07 µg/mL) at 25 µg/mL, and dose-dependently reduced production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α; IC50, 52.07 µg/mL) and prostaglandin E2 (IC50, 38.46 µg/mL) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. In addition, BG10 significantly inhibited the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2 and nuclear NF-κB, and improved that of cytosolic levels of NF-κB and IκBα in the cells. Consistent with in vitro studies, BG10 (0.5 mg/mL) not only reduced ear edema but also suppressed the formation of IL-6 and TNF-α induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate in ear tissues of mice. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest BG10 has anti-dermatitic activity through inhibiting activation of macrophages. Therefore, such effects of BG10 may provide information for the application of aged black garlic for prevention and therapy of contact dermatitis.