Microbial biostimulants as alternatives for the rooting of olive tree cuttings

Currently, southern Minas Gerais (MG) state is an important producer of different olive tree (Olea europaea L.) cultivars because, in this region, the plants can differentiate the buds to produce flowers and fruit. To stimulate the rooting of cuttings, the synthetic hormone indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at a concentration of 3 g L−1 is used commercially. However, few studies have investigated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), isolated or combined with rhizobacteria, as a biotechnological tool to produce hormones that function in the rooting of olive tree cuttings. The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of different AMF species (Rhizophagus clarus, Gigaspora rosea, or Acaulospora scrobiculata), combined or not with IBA or rhizobacteria, to promote the rooting of three olive tree cuttings (Arbequina, Grappolo 541, and Maria da Fé) with potential for cultivation in this region. For this, three experiments were conducted at the Experimental Farm of EPAMIG in Maria da Fé (MG), and the rooting potential of the olive tree cuttings inoculated with I) AMF, II) AMF combined with increasing doses of IBA, and III) AMF combined with three isolates of rhizobacteria was evaluated. The inoculation of olive tree cuttings of cultivars Arbequina, Grappolo 541, and Maria da Fé with Rhizophagus clarus, Gigaspora rosea, or Acaulospora scrobiculata combined or not with IBA or rhizobacteria did not significantly promote rooting. Alternative forms of rooting olive tree cuttings are still a challenge, and further studies for standardizing methodologies and experimental conditions are required.

Seasonal Fluctuations of N, P and K in Leaves Influenced Nutrient Requirement During Fruit Development Stages in Different Olive Genotypes

Abstract: Olive is grown in semi-arid climatic conditions; however, little is known about mineral changes in olive plant and nutrient requirements during the production period. Hence, the current study was conducted under Pothwar agro-climatic conditions in order to select appropriate stage of macronutrients (N, P, K) application in relation to soil and leaf nutritional status during 2017 and 2018 growing seasons. Soil and leaf analysis were performed at four different phenological stages (i.e. flowering, fruit setting, fruit enlargement and fruit maturity stages). The results revealed that the assessed macronutrient in leaf and soil varied significantly among varieties, phenological stages and growing year. The results revealed also that nitrogen level was found to decrease from fruit set (1.56%) to fruit enlargement stage (1.47%). Leaf and soil N, P and K contents were found higher before the flowering (stage 1) and depleted after fruit harvesting (stage 4), regardless of olive varieties. However, high yielding varieties showed lower nutrients after fruit harvesting (stage 4). Therefore, N content in leaf and soil gradually decreased during fruit growth and development. Whereas, K content in leaf and soil sharply declined from fruit maturity to fruit ripening stage. Overall, the trend of nutrient depletion showed that plants need phosphorus for fruit setting, nitrogen before and after fruit setting, and potash after pit hardening or at oil accumulation stages.

Use of molecular markers SSR and SCAR for identification of olive accessions / Uso de marcadores moleculares SSR e SCAR para identificação de acessos de oliveira

Morphological and agronomical describers are traditionally used in plant characterization. However, the usage of these describers have some limitations such as susceptibility to abiotic and biotic stress and environmental factors. Furthermore, the describers are not stable over time and many can only be evaluated during the adult phase of the plants, which requires time and physical space. Molecular markers offer numerous advantages compared to the conventional alternatives based on phenotype: they are stable and detectable in all vegetable tissues, and are independent of the environment and development phase. One of the main advantages of the use of molecular markers is the time reduction in the identification of genetic diversity among the studied subjects, as the genotypes may even be described for the seed or seedling phase. Many countries have already adopted molecular markers to identify olive cultivars more accurately. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic identity of eight olive accessions supposedly belonging to cultivar Arbequina by using microsatellite (SSR) and Sequence Characterized Amplified Region (SCAR) markers. One accession corresponding to the cultivar was also incorporated into the analysis as a reference genotype. The molecular marker data were analyzed on the software GENALEX6.The markers generated an accumulated PI and PE of 1.26 x 10-6 and 0.949, respectively.The results supported the hypothesis that all accessions belong to the cultivar Arbequina, and the markers can therefore be applied to other varieties of olive species.

Descritores morfológicos e agronômicos são tradicionalmente utilizados na caracterização de plantas. Apesar de recomendado, o emprego destes descritores apresenta algumas limitações como a influência a estresses abióticos e bióticos e aos efeitos do ambiente. Além disso, não são estáveis ao longo do tempo e muitos só podem ser avaliados durante a fase adulta das plantas, o que requer tempo e espaço físico para as avaliações. Os marcadores moleculares oferecem numerosas vantagens relativamente às alternativas convencionais baseadas no fenótipo, pois são estáveis e detectáveis em todos os tecidos vegetais, independente do ambiente e fase de desenvolvimento e uma das principais vantagens da utilização destes é proporcionar a redução do tempo na identificação da diversidade genética entre os indivíduos trabalhados, podendo ser avaliadas genótipos ainda na fase de semente ou de plântula. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a identidade genética de oito acessos de oliveira supostamente pertencentes a cultivar Arbequina usando microssatélites (SSR) e Sequence Characterized Amplified Region (SCAR) marcadores. Um acesso correspondente a cultivar também foi incorporado na análise como o genótipo de referência. Os dados de marcadores moleculares foram analisados com o software GENALEX 6. Como resultado, os marcadores SSR geraram um PI acumulada e PE de 1,26 x 10- 6 e 0,949, respectivamente. Os resultados suportam a hipótese de que todos os acessos pertencem a cultivar Arbequina, e, por conseguinte, esses marcadores podem ser aplicados em situações semelhantes em outras variedades de espécies de oliveira.

Evaluation comparative de l'activité anti-oxydante des extraits éthanoliques des feuilles d'Olea europaea L. de l'Est Algérien / Comparative evaluation of antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts from leaves of Olea europaea L. from Eastern Algeria

Introduction: Objectif-Dans les dernières décennies il y a eu un intérêt croissant pour l'étude des plantes médicinales et leur utilisation traditionnelle pour le traitement de diverses maladies. L'olivier ou Olea europaea L. constitue une entité indissociable des peuples méditerranéens. Cette plante appartient à la grande famille des oleaceae. L'objectif de cette étude a été d'évaluer l'activité anti-oxydante des extraits éthanoliques de quatre variétés sauvages de la plante O.europaea des régions de l'Est algérien : Batna et Mila (hautes-plateaux), Biskra (Sahara) et Skikda (ville côtière). Matériels et méthodes - L'évaluation de l'activité anti-oxydante in vitro des extraits éthanoliques de la plante O.europaea a été réalisée par différentes méthodes, notamment le piégeage du radical libre DPPH• et le pouvoir réducteur des ions ferriques. Résultats : L'analyse quantitative des extraits éthanoliques des feuilles de la plante O.europaea a révélé que l'extrait de Mila était plus riche (420.36 mg GAE/g MS), suivi de celui de Batna (396.84 mg GAE/g MS), puis celui de Biskra (de 380.69 mg GAE/g MS) et enfin de l'extrait de Skikda (368.45 mg GAE/g MS). Les résultats de l'activité antiradicalaire des extraits éthanoliques ont montré que ceux de Batna et Mila possédaient le pouvoir le plus important. Conclusion -Les résultats obtenus confirment favorablement l'utilisation des feuilles d'O.europaea en médecine traditionnelle algérienne pour le traitement de diverses maladies.

Introduction-Objective-In recent decades the study of medicinal proprieties of Olea europaea showed an increase interest of medicinal plants and their traditional use for the treatment of various diseases. The olive tree or Olea europaea L. is an inseparable entity of the Mediterranean people. This plant belongs to the large family of oleaceae. The purpose of this study was to assess the antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extracts from four wild varieties of O.europea in the eastern regions of Algeria: Batna and Mila (highlands), Biskra (Sahara) and Skikda (coastal city). Material and methods - The evaluation of the antioxidant activity in vitro of the ethanolic extracts of O.europaea plant was carried out by various methods, in particular, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging effect and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Results -Quantitative analysis of ethanolic extracts from the leaves of the plant O.europaea revealed that Mila's extract was richer (420.36 mg GAE / g DM), followed by that of Batna (396.84 mg GAE / g DM), then that of Biskra (380.69 mg GAE / g MS) and finally by Skikda extract (368.45 mg GAE / g MS). The results of DPPH free radical scavenging of the ethanolic extracts showed that those of Batna and Mila had the most important power. Conclusion - The obtained results favorably confirm the use of O.europaea leaves in traditional Algerian medicine for the treatment of various diseases.

Inhibitory effects of methanolic Olea europaea and acetonic Acacia laeta on growth of Babesia and Theileria

Objective: To evaluate the antipiroplasmic activities of methanolic extract of Olea europaea (MOE) and acetonic extract of Acacia laeta (AAL) against Babesia and Theileria parasites in vitro and evaluate the chemotherapeutic effects of these extracts against Babesia (B.) microti in vivo. Methods: Fluorescence assay using SYBR Green 1 nucleic acid stain was used to detect inhibitory effects of the two extracts as well as the combination effects of the two extracts with diminazene aceturate and atovaquone on four Babesia species and Theileria equi in vitro while for in vivo experiments, 8-weekold female BALB/c mice were injected intraperitoneally with 1 × 107B. microti-iRBCs and treated orally at a dose of 150 mg/kg of both extracts. Results: The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of AAL against B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, B. caballi, and Theileria equi were lower than those of MOE extracts. Toxicity assay on Madin-Darby bovine kidney, mouse embryonic fibroblast (MH/3T3), and human foreskin fibroblast cell lines showed that MOE and AAL affected only the viability of Madin-Darby bovine kidney cell line with half maximal effective concentrations (EC50) of (794.7±41.9) and (873.9±17.5) μg/mL, respectively. The oral treatments of MOE and AAL at 150 mg/kg inhibited the growth of B. microti in mice by 80.4% and 64.4%, respectively. The MOE and diminazene aceturate combination showed a higher chemotherapeutic effect than that of monotherapy. Conclusions: MOE and AAL have the potential to be an alternative remedy for treating piroplasmosis. Furthermore, the combination therapy of MOE + DA was more potent against B. microti infection in mice than their monotherapies.

Inhibitory effects of methanolic Olea europaea and acetonic Acacia laeta on growth of Babesia and Theileria

Objective: To evaluate the antipiroplasmic activities of methanolic extract of Olea europaea (MOE) and acetonic extract of Acacia laeta (AAL) against Babesia and Theileria parasites in vitro and evaluate the chemotherapeutic effects of these extracts against Babesia (B.) microti in vivo. Methods: Fluorescence assay using SYBR Green 1 nucleic acid stain was used to detect inhibitory effects of the two extracts as well as the combination effects of the two extracts with diminazene aceturate and atovaquone on four Babesia species and Theileria equi in vitro while for in vivo experiments, 8-weekold female BALB/c mice were injected intraperitoneally with 1 × 10

Follow-up of a Composite Endomycorrhizal Inoculum in the Rhizosphere of Olive Plants, Analysis after 42 Months of Culture

Endomycorrhizal inoculum, consisting of more than 26 mycorrhizal species, has been followed over time at the rhizosphere of olive trees. The evolution during time of this endomycorrhizal inoculum at the rhizosphere of plants has been discussed in this study. After 42 months, 45 species were isolated from the rhizosphere of inoculated olive plants. These species belong to 6 genera (Glomus, Acaulospora, Gigaspora; Scutellospora; Pacispora and Entrophospora), from these genera, Glomus was the most dominant (40%) followed by the Acaulospora (30%). Glomus constrictum and G. intraradices were the most abundant species, their frequency are respectively 17% and 15%. In comparison between detected species, those of primary inoculum and those recovered after 30 months, 36 endomycorrhizal species appeared and 14 species disappeared, but four species G. clarum, G. intraradices, G. mossea and G. versiforme have been able to maintain their status and stability of multiplication in the rhizosphere of olive plants.

Effect of reducing chemical fertilizer and using organomineral fertilization on nutritional behavior and vegetative growth of olive trees / Efeito da redução da adubação química com fertilização organomineral no comportamento nutricional e crescimento vegetativo de oliveiras

This research was conducted with the aim of evaluating the nutritional behavior and vegetative growth of two olive tree varieties with the reduction of chemical fertilization and the application of organomineral fertilizer. Three-year-old trees of varieties 'Barnea' and 'Grappolo 541' were used and cultivated on Quartzarenic Neosol in the field. The split-plot scheme was used, with a 4 x 2 factorial design, with the factors of four fertilizations and two varieties and the subplot of evaluation years. The four fertilizations consisted of 100%, 75%, 50% and 0% of the chemical fertilizer recommended for olive trees. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design, with three blocks and three plants per plot. The organomineral fertilizer was used on all of the plants. Leaf samples and vegetative growth were evaluated in July 2012 and June 2013. The nutritional behavior of olive tree varieties 'Barnea' and 'Grappolo 541' was unchanged with a 50% reduction of chemical fertilizer and the application of organomineral fertilizer. The variety 'Barnea', with habit of rapid growth, had lower foliar nutrient concentrations. A 64.5% reduction of the chemical fertilizer with the application of the organomineral fertilizer had no effect on the vegetative growth of the olive tree variety 'Grappolo 541'.

A pesquisa foi realizada com o objetivo de avaliar o comportamento nutricional e o crescimento vegetativo de duas variedades de oliveira, com a redução da adubação química, pela aplicação do fertilizante organomineral. Foram utilizadas duas variedades de oliveira, 'Barnea' e 'Grappolo 541', de três anos de idade, implantadas no campo, em solo classificado como Neossolo Quartzarênico. Utilizou-se o esquema de parcela subdividida, na parcela o fatorial 4 x 2, sendo quatro adubações e duas variedades e, na subparcela, os anos de avaliação. As adubações constituíram-se 100%, 75%, 50% e 0% da adubação química recomendada para a oliveira, distribuídas em blocos casualizados, com três blocos e três plantas por parcela. Em todas as plantas foi feita a aplicação do fertilizante organomineral. As amostras foliares e a avaliação do crescimento vegetativo foram realizadas em julho de 2012 e julho de 2013. O comportamento nutricional das variedades de oliveira 'Barnea' e 'Grappolo 541' não foi alterado com a redução de 50% da adubação química e a aplicação de fertilizante organomineral. 'Barnea', com hábito de crescimento rápido, apresenta menores teores foliares de nutrientes. A redução da adubação química em 64,5%, com a aplicação de fertilizante organomineral, não interferiu no crescimento vegetativo da 'Grappolo 541'.

Standard area diagram set for olive leaf spot assessment / Escala diagramática para avaliação de repilo em oliveira

ABSTRACT: The establishment of olive (Olea europaea) orchards in Brazil is increasing due to their economic potential and benefits to human health. However, a number of limiting factors need to be overcome, such as Olive Leaf Spot (OLS) occurrence, for olives to reach their full potential. OLS, which is caused by Fusicladium oleaginum, results in defoliation and a reduction in fruit production. This study aimed to develop a standard area diagram set (SAD) for the assessment of OLS severity under humid subtropical climate conditions. The SAD was developed with six levels of severity (1, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15%) and OLS severity was validated by eight inexperienced raters. Using the SAD provided an increase in accuracy, precision and concordance, while also reducing the smallest difference detectable. The proposed SAD was adequate at estimating the OLS and could be a useful tool for use in epidemiological and phytopathometry studies, evaluation of control strategies and selection of resistant genotypes.

RESUMO: O cultivo da oliveira (Olea europaea) no Brasil é crescente devido seu potencial econômico e pelos benefícios que seus produtos oferecem à saúde humana, entretanto, alguns fatores limitantes precisam ser superados, como a ocorrência do repilo (OLS). O repilo, causado pelo fungo Fusicladium oleagineum, causa desfolha e redução da produção de azeitonas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar uma escala diagramática para auxiliar nas estimativas de severidade de repilo em oliveira em condição de clima subtropical úmido. A escala diagramática foi elaborada com 6 níveis (1, 3, 6, 9, 12 e 15%) e validada por 8 avaliadores inexperientes. Com o uso da escala houve aumento na acurácia, precisão e concordância, também redução do menor valor de severidade detectável. A escala proposta foi adequada para estimar a severidade de repilo em oliveira, podendo ser utilizada para estudos epidemiológicos, avaliação de estratégias de controle e seleção de genótipos resistentes.

Extraction,Isolation and Structural Identification of Triterpenes from the Leaves of Olea europaea / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE:To extract,isolate the triterpenes from the leaves of Olea europaea,then conduct structural identifica-tion,and provide reference for development and application of the leaves of O. europaea. METHODS:Silica gel column and other methods were used for elution,column chromatography and recrystallization of the ethyl acetate part of ethanol extracts from the leaves of Olea europaea. The structures of separated compounds were identified by nuclear magnetic resonance. RESULTS:6 com-pounds were isolated from ethyl acetate part of the leaves of O. europaea,identified as β-amyrin,erythrodiol,2α,3β-dihydrox-yl-12-ursen-28-acid (compound 3),oleanolic acid,camaldulenic acid (compound 5),3α-maslinic acid. Compound 3 and com-pound 5 were isolated from the leaves of O. europaea for the first time. CONCLUSIONS:The study has provided test basis for the further development and reasonable application of the leaves of O. europaea.

Research progress on biological activities of Olea europaea leaf extract / 中国中药杂志

Olea europaea oil is one of the most important part of the "Mediterranean dietary pattern", and a lot of epidemiological evidences showed that people with the Mediterranean diet having a lower morbidity of the cardiovascular system diseases, skin cancer and colon cancer. The health benefits of a Mediterranean diet not only attributed to monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamins and other nutrients in O. europaea oil, but also the phenolic compounds named as antioxidant effect. Studies have shown that O. europaea leaf contains much more antioxidant activity composition than the fruit, and oleuropein, flavonoids such polyphenols are the main active ingredients in O. europaea leaf. A small amount of O. europaea was introduced into China in 1956, after widely cultivated in Fujian, Guangdong, Taiwan, Sichuan, Shaanxi, Yunnan, and Longnan in Gansu province is the biggest O. europaea planting area in the country. In every winter pruning O. europaea will produce a large number of the leaves, which could be a high added value products (phenolic compounds) of rich source. This article through consulting the literature at home and abroad, classified and summarized the biological activity research status of O. europaea leaf extract and the possible mechanisms, including antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidation, and on the function of brain, cardiovascular system, anti-diabetes, anti-inflammatory and analgesia and so on. At the same time looked ahead to its development prospects of O. europaea leaf extract, it has variety and high content of active ingredients, and antioxidant synergy, which provide a theoretical basis for the further development and utilization of O. europaea leaf. And O. europaea leaf extract has a rich cheap source and good bioavailability, which provided a broad space in the application of medical and health care.

In vitro regeneration in olive (Olea europaea L.) cv, ‘Frontio’ from nodal segments.

An efficient and reproducible protocol for plantlet regeneration from nodal segments of Olive cv ‘Frontio’ has been developed. Media and explants browning due to exudation of phenolics from the explants were controlled by fortification of the medium with 100 mg/L ascorbic acid. Best establishment of olive explants was observed on half-strength MS salts fortified with 2.0 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), which resulted in 56.2% of bud break and 93.7% survival whereas, a combination of full strength MS medium with 1.0 mg/L each of 3-indole-butyric-acid (IBA) and kinetin was found to be the best for shoot multiplication, in terms of number of shoots (3.6 shoots/explant) and shoot length (2.2 cm). The in vitro shoots were rooted on half-strength MS medium fortified with 0.2 mg/L IBA and 0.2 mg/L α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) with 1.5 g/L activated charcoal, which supported optimum rooting (60 %), with an average of 2-3 roots/shoot, about 2.4 cm length were produced on four weeks of culture.

Separation and preparation of polyphenols from leaves of Olea europaea by preparative medium pressure liquid chromatography / 中草药

Objective: To study the material basis of the anti-diabetic effective fraction in the leaves of Olea europaea. Methods: Preparative medium pressure liquid chromatography (PMPLC) was used for the separation and purification of the compounds. Their structures were elucidated by spectral analyses. Results: The structures of the compounds were identified by various spectroscopic methods combined with the data from some published literatures. There were five compounds which were extracted from the anti-diabetic effective fraction in the leaves of O. europaea and identified as decaffeoylverbascoside (1), luteolin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (2), 6″-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl oleuropein (3), oleuroside (4), and oleuropein (5). Additionally, decaffeoylverbascoside is isolated from this plant for the first time and the purities of the five compounds were all above 90% by HPLC detection. Conclusion: This research provides technological support for the development of new drug based on the leaves of O. europaea.

Efecto vasodilatador e inhibidor de vasoconstricción del extracto hidroalcohólico de hojas de Olea europaea (olivo) sobre anillos aórticos de ratas / Vasodilator and vasoconstriction inhibitor effect of Olea europaea (olive) leaf hydroalcoholic extract on rat aortic rings

Objetivos: Evaluar el efecto vasodilatador, la inhibición de la vasoconstricción, así como el mecanismo responsable, del extracto hidroalcohólico de hojas de Olea europaea (olivo), sobre anillos aórticos en ratas. Diseño: Experimental. Lugar: Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo Científico, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de San Agustín, Arequipa, Perú. Material biológico: Hojas de Olea europea y anillos aórticos de Rattus norvegicus, variedad albina swiss. Intervenciones: Se obtuvo un extracto hidroalcohólico de las hojas de Olea europaea. Se usó anillos aórticos de rata en cámara de órganos aislados y se registró la actividad vasomotora con un transductor de tensión isométrica. Se produjo contracción basal máxima con CaCl2 6 mM y se determinó el efecto vasodilatador con dosis de 25, 50 y 100 mg/mL de extracto hidroalcohólico de las hojas de Olea europaea. Se usó 1H-[1,2,4] oxadiazolo [4,3 alquinoxalin-1-one] (ODQ) y nifedipino para determinar el mecanismo de acción. Se comparó la inhibición de la vasoconstricción tras la incubación durante 30 minutos con extracto 100 mg/mL y con captopril 10 µM. Principales medidas de resultados: Porcentaje de vasodilatación y de vasoconstricción. Resultados: Se obtuvo una vasodilatación de 7,20 ± 1,49%, 9,84 ± 1,42% y 12,31 ± 1,16% para las dosis de 25, 50 y 100 mg/mL, respectivamente, siendo significativa con la dosis de 100 mg/mL. La vasodilatación se incrementó tras la administración de ODQ 100 mM. La vasodilatación se inhibió tras la incubación con ODQ 100 mM más nifedipino 5 µM. No se encontró diferencia significativa entre la inhibición de la vasoconstricción con captopril 10µM y extracto a 100 mg/mL. Conclusiones: El extracto hidroalcohólico de hojas de Olea europea, a una dosis de 100 mg/mL, tiene efecto vasodilatador sobre anillos aórticos de ratas, mediado por el bloqueo de canales de calcio; además, posee efecto inhibidor de la vasoconstricción.

Objectives: To determine the vasodilator and anti-vasoconstrictor effect of Olea europaea (olive) leaf hydroalcoholic extract on rat aortic rings and the mechanism involved. Design: Experimental. Location: Research and Scientific Development Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de San Agustin, Arequipa, Peru. Biological material: Leaves of Olea europaea and aortic rings of Rattus norvegicus, swiss albina variety. Interventions: Hydroalcoholic extract was obtained from Olea europaea leaves. Rat aortic rings were placed in isolated organ chambers and the vasomotor activity was recorded with isometric tension transducer. Maximum basal contraction occurred at CaCl2, and 6 mM vasodilator effect was determined at 25, 50, and 100 mg/mL doses of the hydroalcoholic extract. 1H-[1,2,4] oxadiazole [4,3-alquinoxalin-1-one] (ODQ) and nifedipine were used to determine the mechanism of action. We compared the inhibition of vasoconstriction after incubation for 30 minutes with the extract 100 mg/mL and with captopril 10 µM. Main outcome measures: Percentage of vasodilation and vasoconstriction. Results: There was vasodilatation of 7.20 ± 1.49%, 9.84 ± 1.42%, and 12.31 ± 1.16% for respectively 25, 50, and 100 mg/mL doses of hydroalcoholic extract; it was significant at doses of 100 mg/ mL. Vasodilation increased after administration of ODQ 100 mM. Vasodilation was inhibited after incubation with ODQ 100 mM plus nifedipine 5 µM. No significant difference was found between vasoconstriction inhibition with captopril 10 µM or extract 100 mg/mL. Conclusions: Olea europaea leaves hydroalcoholic extract at 100 mg/mL dose had calcium channel blockade-vasodilator effect and vasoconstriction inhibitory effect on rat aortic rings.

Effect of coconut water on growth of olive embryos cultured in vitro / Efeito da água de coco no crescimento de embriões de oliveira cultivados in vitro

The experiment was carried out to determine the appropriate dose of coconut water as supplement for in vitro cultivation of zygotic embryos from 19 olive genotypes. The isolated embryos of the olive seeds were immersed on culture medium containing 0 (control), 25, 50, and 100mL L-1 of fresh and sterile coconut water and kept for 45 days under controlled environment. The percentage of germination, shoot length, number of roots, number of leaves and number of internodes were measured for all 19 olive genotypes. The ANOVA of the parameters evaluated showed significant genotypes x doses of coconut water interaction for shoot length, number of leaves and number of internodes and the dose of 100mL L-1 produced the best results overall as indicated by the means of measured parameters. However, the study showed the importance of determining the appropriate dose of coconut water for each genotype under consideration as shown by significant genotype x dose of coconut water interaction effect.

O experimento foi realizado para determinar a dose adequada de água de coco como suplemento para cultivo in vitro de embriões zigóticos de 19 genótipos de oliveira. Os embriões isolados das sementes de oliveira foram imersos em meio de cultura contendo 0 (controle), 25, 50, e 100mL L-1 de água de coco fresca e estéril, em condição de ambiente controlado durante 45 dias. A porcentagem de germinação, comprimento da parte aérea, número de raízes, número de folhas e número de internódios foram medidos para todos os 19 genótipos de oliveira. A ANOVA dos parâmetros avaliados apresentou interação significativa entre genótipos e dose de água de coco para o comprimento da parte aérea, número de folhas e número de internódios, e a dose de 100mL L-1, de forma geral, produziu os melhores resultados, como indicado pelas médias dos parâmetros analisados. No entanto, como mostra a interação significativa observada entre genótipos e tratamentos, é importante determinar a dose adequada de água de coco para cada genótipo.

Screening for anti-diabetic effective fraction in leaves of Olea europaea / 中草药

Objective: To screen the anti-diabetic effective fraction in the leaves of Olea europaea. Methods: Different fractions (Frs. A-F) were prepared using reflux extraction and separation with macroporous resins. α-Amylase system, non-enzymatic glycation system, and alloxan-induced diabetic models of mice were used to evaluate the anti-diabetic activities of the different fractions, respectively. Results: Frs. C-F fractions showed the significant inhibitory activities against α-amylase system and non-enzymatic glycation system. Especially, fraction D showed the best anti-diabetic activity compared with the other fractions, which also displayed a good dose-effect relationship. The anti-diabetic activities of Frs. C and D were both obvious and Fr. D showed more significance. Conclusion: The leaves of O. europaea show the potential anti-diabetic activity and the most effective fraction is ascribed to Fr. D.

Temperatura base e filocrono em duas cultivares de oliveira / Base temperature and phyllochron in two olive cultivars

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a temperatura base para emissão de folhas e determinar o filocrono em duas cultivares de oliveira, 'Arbequina' e 'MGS ASC315', durante a fase de muda em condições de campo. Foi instalado um experimento na Fazenda Experimental da Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária de Minas Gerais, Maria da Fé, MG. Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x6, sendo duas cultivares e seis épocas de transplantio, com quinze repetições. A temperatura base (Tb) foi estimada usando a metodologia do menor valor do quadrado médio do erro (QME), e o filocrono foi obtido através do inverso do coeficiente angular da regressão linear entre o número de folhas emitidas e a soma térmica acumulada. A Tb estimada para a Arbequina foi de 10,5°C e 11°C para a MGS ASC315. O filocrono diferiu estatisticamente somente entre as cultivares, sendo menor para a 'Arbequina' (21,7°C dia-1 folha-1) quando comparada com a 'MGS ASC315' (41,6°C dia-1 folha-1).

The objective of this work was to estimate the base temperature for leaf appearance and the phyllochron for two cultivars of Olea europaea L. A field experiment was carried out in the experimental area of the Agricultural Research Corporation of Minas Gerais, Maria da Fé, MG. The experimental design was completely randomized with two cultivars and six planting dates. Base temperature (Tb) was estimated by the minimum mean square error (MSE) and the phyllochron was estimated by the inverse of the slope of regression between main stem leaf number and accumulated thermal time. The estimated base temperature was 10.5°C for Arbequina and 11°C for MGS ASC315. The phyllochron was statistically different only between cultivars, lower for 'Arbequina' (21.7°C day-1 leaf-1) compared to 'MGS ASC315' (41.6°C day-1 leaf-1).

Phytochemical Characterization and Radical Scavenging Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Medicinal Plants from Portugal.

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of four medicinal plants from Portugal usually consumed as tea infusion, Melissa officinalis (Lamiaceae) – lemon balm, Matricaria chamomilla (Asteraceae) – chamomile, Olea europaea (Oleaceae) – olive leaves, and Aloysia triphylla (Verbenaceae) – lemon verbena. Place and Duration of Study: Air-dried leaves of four of the most consumed medicinal plants from Portugal were analyzed in the Department of Pharmacognosy (UFP) and Laboratory of Bromatology (FFUP) and, Department of Pharmacy, and Chemical Laboratory, Health Technology Research Center (CITS) between June 2010 and September 2011. Methodology: Qualitative phytochemical analysis was done for several phytoconstituents (alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins). Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents were quantified by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. It was also analyzed the possible correlation between antioxidant activity (in vitro) and the synergistic effect between different phytochemicals, using the free radical 2,2’-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Results: Steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids and tannin, were present in Melissa officinalis and Matricaria chamomilla. In Olea europaea leaves, all the chemical constituents were present except alkaloids, and terpenoids. Aloysia triphylla showed the presence of all the constituents. Total phenol contents ranged from 12.91mg.100g-1 to 87.25 mg.100g-1 and flavonoid contents ranged from 25.17mg.100g-1 to 57.28mg.100g-1. The screening of the leaf of the four selected medicinal plants indicates that the presence of high phenolic content may be due to the presence of tannins and flavonoids which are known to possess antioxidant activities. A slight correlation has been observed between total phenolics and antioxidant activity. Conclusion: Our findings provided evidence that aqueous extracts of these tested plants from Portugal contain medicinally important bioactive compounds. Results showed that plants from Portugal usually used as tea infusions are a good source of phytochemical compounds presenting antioxidant activity, so their consumption must be incremented in younger generations which usually consume other less beneficial drinks.

Desenvolvimento vegetativo de duas cultivares de oliveira na fase de muda / Vegetative development of two olive cultivars in seedling phase

O desenvolvimento de plantas, influenciado pela temperatura do ar, pode ser estimado através do conceito de filocrono, definido como o intervalo de tempo entre o surgimento sucessivo de folhas em uma haste, sendo o tempo expresso em °C dia e o filocrono em °C dia folha-1. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desenvolvimento de duas cultivares de oliveira durante a fase de muda, em diferentes épocas de aclimatação, utilizando o conceito de filocrono. O experimento foi conduzido na Fazenda Experimental da Epamig, em Maria da Fé, sul de Minas Gerais, Brasil. O delineamento utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 2x5, com duas cultivares ('MGS ASC315' e 'Arbequina'), cinco épocas de aclimatação (maio, junho, julho, agosto e setembro de 2010) e 15 repetições. O filocrono foi estimado pelo inverso do coeficiente angular da regressão linear entre o número de folhas emitidas (NF) e a soma térmica acumulada (STa). O filocrono em 'MGS ASC315' foi de 14,7°C dia folha-1 (época 1), 31,7°C dia folha-1 (média das épocas 2, 3 e 4) e 60,2°C dia folha-1 (época 5). O filocrono em 'Arbequina' foi de 17,3°C dia folha-1 (média das cinco épocas de aclimatação, uma vez que não apresentou diferença significativa entre as épocas). Nas épocas de aclimatação 3, 4 e 5, houve diferença do filocrono entre as cultivares, sendo que o menor filocrono foi para a cultivar 'Arbequina'. Nas épocas 1 e 2, não houve diferenças significativas entre as cultivares.

Plants development, influenced by air temperature, can be estimated through the concept of phyllochron, defined as the time interval between the appearance of successive leaves on a stem, being the time expressed in °C day and the phyllochron in °C day leaf-1. The objective of this study was to evaluate the development of two olive cultivars during the seedling phase at different acclimation dates, using the concept of phyllochron. The experiment was carried in the experimental area of the Agricultural Research Corporation of Minas Gerais, Maria da Fé, south of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized with two cultivars (MGS 'ASC315' and 'Arbequina'), five acclimation date (May, June, July, August and September 2010) and 15 repetitions. The phyllochron was estimated by the inverse of the slope of the linear regression between leaves number (NF) and accumulated thermal time (STa). The phyllochron in 'MGS ASC315' was 14,7°C day leaf-1 (date 1), 31,7°C day leaf-1 (average of dates 2, 3 and 4) and 60,2°C day leaf-1(date 5). The phyllochron in 'Arbequina' was 17,3°C day leaf-1 (average of five acclimation dates, due not statistically difference among dates). In acclimation dates 3, 4 and 5, not statistically difference between cultivars, and the smallest phyllochron for 'Arbequina'. In acclimation dates 1 and 2, were not statistically different between cultivars.

Antimicrobial properties of Ethiopian chewing sticks against Candida albicans.

Ethnobotanical survey was done in Jimma, Ethiopia, to identify the plants used for oral hygiene and evaluate the same against a selected oral pathogen. The survey revealed the use of chewing sticks to manage oral hygiene/infection. In spite of their wide use, very little has been done to evaluate their antimicrobial activity. Hence 11 chewing stick plants were chosen for antimicrobial study against an oral pathogen – Candida albicans the causative organism for oral candidiasis by agar well diffusion (Perez, 1991). The results revealed that Olea europaea extract showed maximum inhibition on its own. The activity of Justicia schimperiana was increased to three fold when combined with cinnamon and brown honey. The research documents the use of chewing sticks to manage oral infection caused by Candida albicans, which will be of immense assistance to developing countries with financial constraints and limited health care facilities.