Investigation of infestation and disposal of bedbugs in Shanghai / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo investigate the infestation and disposal of bedbugs in Shanghai， and provide scientific evidence for comprehensive prevention and control of bedbugs. MethodsA questionnaire survey was conducted in the pest control operations （PCOs） of Shanghai Association for Health Promotion to investigate the infestation and disposal of bedbugs. The questionnaire included basic information of the unit， bedbug disposal experience， type of environment of bedbug infestation， main disposal site， main treatment method， main drug and formulation， and evaluation of the disposal. Chi-square test was used for comparison between groups. ResultsOf the 116 PCOs， 78 （67.24%） had conducted bedbug disposal， and 29.49% had conducted the disposal no less than 5 times in the past three years. The main types of environment of bedbug infestation were dormitories （46.96%）， hotels （18.78%）， and households （20.44%）. Additionally， bedbug infestation was found in nursing homes， prisons and detention centers， and transport vehicles. Bed frame/bed board/mattress （32.42%） was the main site of bedbug infestation， followed by mat （19.63%）. Chemical spraying was the most common method for bedbug disposal （98.72%）， followed by high-temperature steam （11.54%）. The main drug used in chemical spraying were pyrethroids （69.23%）， nicotinoids （60.26%） and organophosphorus （42.31%）， for which the main formulation were suspended insecticides （55.13%）， followed by wettable powders （43.59%） and emulsifiers （43.59%）. Furthermore， 89.74% of the PCOs performed the assessment after disposal， in which the control effect was generally satisfactory. ConclusionBedbug infestation is relatively common in Shanghai. Dormitories， hotels and households are places where bedbug infestation is more likely to occur. Bed frame， bed board and mattress are the most vulnerable sites to bedbug infestation. Combination of physical and chemical methods should be used for disposal of bedbug infestation.

Revolutionizing Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review of Nanotechnology Applications

This comprehensive review paper, titled "Revolutionizing Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review of Nanotechnology Applications," explores the transformative role of nanotechnology in modern agriculture. In a world grappling with food security and environmental challenges, nanotechnology offers innovative solutions that significantly impact the agriculture sector. This paper delves into key topics, including the fundamentals of nanotechnology, various nanomaterials and their applications in agriculture, crop improvement, soil management, pest and disease control, environmental and safety considerations, and the future prospects of nanotechnology in agriculture. The review underscores the importance of nanotechnology in addressing global agricultural challenges, enhancing crop productivity, and ensuring sustainable food production while navigating environmental constraints. By examining the latest research and real-world examples, this review provides valuable insights into the burgeoning field of nanotechnology applications in agriculture, highlighting the significance of interdisciplinary research and responsible nanomaterial utilization.

Ecological Role and Ecosystem Services of Birds: A Review

Birds play many roles, including predators, pollinators, scavengers, seed dispersers, pests, predators, nutrient cycling, ecosystem engineers, and many other services. However, the global decline in bird populations means that the ecosystem services provided by these birds are also declining [1]. The services birds provide are ecologically and economically important, but are not adequately appreciated due to insufficient information. Therefore, this review article aims to elucidate the role of birds in the agro-ecosystem and their benefits to humans in order to promote their conservation. Healthy bird populations and their habitats would help protect various ecological services that would ultimately improve human well-being.

Effect of Calotropis procera (Aiton) Dryand.based zinc oxide nanoparticles on the cotton pest Spodoptera litura Fab

Major loss in agricultural crops is caused by insect pests. In India, various synthetic insecticides are used against pests. These are much expensive and cause environmental hazards. The nanoparticles, as an alternative approach is gaining considerable interest in this field. In the present study, we explored the biological synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Giant milkweed, Calotropis procera (Aiton) Dryand. and its effects on the tobacco cutworm, Spodoptera litura. The reduction of zinc ions (Zn2+) to zinc nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) was prepared by mixing 50 g of C. procera leaves with 100 mL of single distilled water in a 250 mL glass beaker. To synthesize nanoparticles, 50 mL of C. procera leaf extract was taken using a stirrer-heater and 5 g of zinc oxide was added at 60ºC, boiled, then kept in a hot air oven at 70ºC for 24 h. Finally, the obtained light yellow coloured powder was carefully collected and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The results revealed that the biologically synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles pesticide was highly effective against the pest. The weight of the pest decreased from low concentration to high concentration. It is concluded that the Calotropis Procera based zinc oxide nanoparticles could be used for the control of Spodoptera litura.

Insecticides action of neonicotinoids group in fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) control on bean leaves (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Among several factors that impact the bean culture productivity there are pest insects, which affect the plant since seeding until postharvest, causing loss in the culture yield. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) stands out among the main pests of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of insecticides of the neonicotinoid group in the control of the fall armyworm in the bean crop, comparing dinotefuran, acetamiprid, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid performance. Experimental design was composed of blocks entirely randomized, with 9 treatments and 10 replicates. Three caterpillars, at the stage of second instar, were used in each experiment, focusing on the ingestion of leaves containing the treatments. Evaluations were realized in the intervals of 1, 3, 6 and 8 days after every application, counting the number of caterpillars alive in the Petri's dish, attributing visual notes on bean leaves, according to the foliar area affected (consumed). The dinotefuran treatment with the highest dose presented superior efficiency at 80% in the first evaluation. The thiamethoxam treatment with the lowest dose, in the latest analyses, showed efficient superior at 90%. The major doses of all treatments presented efficiency higher than 80% in the last evaluations, being efficient in the S. frugiperda control.

Silenciamiento génico en insectos plaga que afectan la industria agrícola usando ARN de interferencia / Gene silencing in pest insects that affect the agricultural industry using interference RNA

Resumen Los insectos plaga, son especies de organismos vivos que en forma constante se encuentran en poblaciones altas, ocasionando daños económicos en los cultivos. Generalmente, suele tratarse de especies puntuales, por lo general, sólo una o dos, que pueden causar gran afectación económica en el sector de la agricultura. En las últimas 3 décadas se ha venido desarrollando el concepto de un proceso biológico, detectado en eucariotas ampliamente, mediante el que se pueden silenciar genes, a partir de ARN de doble cadena (ARNdc). Esta maquinaria se ha investigado para conocer su funcionamiento y buscar potenciales aplicaciones que podrían tener en el campo de la biotecnología. En varios estudios se encontró que el silenciamiento de genes se debe a las interacciones enzimáticas intracelulares citoplasmáticas con moléculas de ARN pequeñas (ARNsi), que actúan sobre el ARN mensajero (ARNm) intracelular, impidiendo que este se traduzca a proteína. Mediante este mecanismo se busca silenciar genes específicos en insectos plaga, que sean esenciales para que el insecto pueda vivir y de esa manera evitar la proliferación de la plaga. Este artículo recopila los estudios realizados acerca del ARN de interferencia, referidos al mecanismo genético de los insectos, como alternativa para su control.

AbstractPest insects are species of living organisms that are constantly found in high populations,causing economic crops damage. Generally, it tends to be specific species, usually onlyone or two, which can cause great economic damage in the agricultural sector. In thelast 3 decades, the concept of a biological process has been developed, widely detected in eukaryotes, by which genes can be silenced, from double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). This machinery has been investigated to understand its operation and to look for potential applications that it could have in the field of biotechnology. In several studies it was found that gene silencing is due to cytoplasmic intracellular enzymatic interactions with small RNA molecules (siRNA), which act on intracellular messenger RNA (mRNA), preventing it from translating a protein. Through this mechanism, the aim is to silence specific genes in pest insects, which are essential for the insect to live and thus prevent the proliferation of the pest. This article compiles the studies carried out on RNA interference, referring to the genetic mechanism of insects, as an alternative for its control.

Control de larvas de Aedes aegypti con extractos de Allium sativum y Annona muricata como larvicidas / Control of larvae Aedes aegypti with extracts of Allium sativum and Annona muricata as larvicides

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar el efecto larvicida en éter de petróleo de los extractos de Allium sativum (ajo) y Annona muricata (guanábana) sobre larvas en IV estadio de Aedes aegypti en condiciones de laboratorio. Métodos Se realizaron diferentes bioensayos (tratamientos) en 6 concentraciones para Annona muricata y 7 concentraciones de Allium sativum, con cuatro repeticiones y un control. Se tuvo lecturas de mortalidad a las 2, 12, 24, 36 y 48 horas. Se validaron los datos obtenidos estadísticamente (corrección de Abbott y Análisis ANOVA). Además, se determinaron las concentraciones y tiempos letales para ambos extractos con un análisis Probit. Resultados Se obtuvo que, en un periodo de 48 horas, el tratamiento de 500 ppm del extracto de Annona muricata logró una mortalidad del 97%, mientras que el tratamiento de 2000 ppm con Allium sativum logró alcanzar una mortalidad del 85%. El tiempo letal 50 (50% de mortalidad) para Annona muricata, se obtuvo en el tratamiento de 200 ppm antes de 24 horas, para el caso de Allium sativum fue en el tratamiento de 1200 ppm antes de 48 horas. Para el tiempo letal 90 (90% de mortalidad) para Annona muricata, se obtuvo en el tratamiento de 400 ppm antes de 40 horas. Para el caso de Allium sativum, el tiempo letal 90 no fue posible obtenerlo experimentalmente. Se determinó por medio de un modelo matemático lineal, que dio como resultado 51 horas. Conclusión Ambas especies poseen efecto larvicida. Sin embargo, el extracto más eficiente y efectivo como larvicida es el de Annona muricata, lo que permite dar una alternativa natural, viable, económica y biodegradable para el control de larvas de esta especie.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the larvicidal effect in petroleum ether of the extracts of Allium sativum (garlic) and Annona muricata (soursop) on larvae in stage IV of Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. Methods Different bioassays (treatments) were performed in 6 factors for Annona muricata and 7 concentrations of Allium sativum, with four replications and one control. Mortality readings were taken at 2, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours. The data obtained statistically (Abbott correction and ANOVA analysis) were validated, in addition, the concentrations and lethal times for both extracts were determined with a Probit analysis. Results It was obtained that, in a 48 hour period, the treatment of 500 ppm of the extract of Annona muricata resulted in a mortality of 97%, while the treatment of 2000 ppm with Allium sativum reached a mortality of 85%. The lethal time 50 (50% mortality) for Annona muricata, was obtained in the treatment of 200 ppm within 24 hours, in the case of Allium sativum it was in the treatment of 1200 ppm before 48 hours. For the lethal time 90 for Annona muricata, obtain the treatment of 400 ppm before 40 hours, for the case of Allium sativum, the lethal time 90 (90% mortality) could not be obtained experimentally, it was determined by means of a linear mathematical model, resulting in 51 hours. Conclusion Both species affected larvicidal effect. However, the most efficient and effective extract as a larvicide is that of Annona muricata, which allows giving a natural, viable, economical and biodegradable alternative for the control of larvae of this species.

Juvenile hormone: Production, regulation, current application in vector control and its future applications

@#Juvenile hormone is an exclusive hormone found in insects which involves regulating various insect physiology. A total of eight juvenile hormones have been identified in insects which include JH 0, JH I, JH II, JH III, 4-methyl JH I (Iso- JH 0), JHB III, JHSB III, and MF. Corpora allata are the glands responsible for the production and synthesis of these hormones. They are involved in moulting, reproduction, polyethism, and behavioural regulations in different orders of insects. Factors such as diet temperatures, photoperiods, and plant compounds affect the biosynthesis and regulation of juvenile hormones. Juvenile hormones analogue is usually used to disrupt normal regulation of JH and this analogue is categorized as insect-growth regulators (IGRs) and is widely used in pest control as an alternative to chemical insecticides. Other applications of biosynthesis activities of this hormone have not been explored in the area of JHs. In this review, current applications of JHs with an addition of their future application will be discussed.

Effect of cypermethrin on the control of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and broiler performance

ABSTRACT: This study analysed the effectiveness of using different levels of a product based on 6% cypermethrin and 2% citronella on broiler production and control the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus). A total of 648 one-day-old chicks (Cobb®) which were allocated to one of three treatments (no application of the commercial product - control, and two concentrations of the product 2.00 and 3.33g/m2) in eight replicates with 27 birds each. The commercial product, which was based on cypermethrin was applied in the chambers with an atomizer. The lesser mealworm population was sampled weekly (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment) using traps, at three points (front, middle and back) inside the pen. The performance, carcass and cut yields were evaluated. At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment, the number of lesser mealworm adults and larvae was lower in the treatment groups involving 2.00 and 3.33g/m2 of the product than in the control group. On the first and 14th days of the study, the number of lesser mealworms adults was lower in the group treated with 3.33g/m2 of the product compared to the control group, although the results did not differ statistically from those obtained with 2.00g/m2 of the product. In conclusion, the application of the commercial product at both concentrations (2.00 and 3.33g/m2) was effective in combating Alphitobius diaperinus adults and larvae, and the performance was not influenced by treatments.

RESUMO: Este estudo analisou a eficácia do uso de diferentes níveis de um produto à base de cipermetrina a 6% e citronela a 2%, na produção de frangos de corte e no controle do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus). Um total de 648 pintos de um dia de idade (Cobb®) foram distribuídos em três câmaras com os tratamentos (sem aplicação do produto comercial - controle, e duas concentrações do produto comercial - 2,00 e 3,33g/m2) em oito repetições com 27 aves cada. O produto comercial a base de cipermetrina foi aplicado nas câmaras com um atomizador. A população de cascudinho foi amostrada semanalmente (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento) usando armadilhas, em três pontos (frente, meio e fundo) de cada parcela. Foram avaliados o desempenho, rendimentos de carcaça e cortes. Aos 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento, o número de adultos e larvas de cascudinho foi menor nos grupos de tratamento envolvendo 2,00 e 3,33g/m2 do produto quando comparado ao grupo controle. No primeiro e no 14º dia do estudo, o número de cascudinhos adultos foi menor no grupo tratado com 3,33g/m2 do produto em comparação ao grupo controle, embora os resultados não tenham diferido estatisticamente daqueles obtidos com 2,00g/m2 do produto. A conversão alimentar de 1 a 21 dias de idade foi significativa, com os melhores resultados para essa variável quando aplicado 3,33g do produto por metro quadrado e no tratamento controle. Em conclusão, a aplicação do produto comercial em ambas as concentrações (2,00 e 3,33g/m2) foi eficaz no combate a adultos e larvas de Alphitobius diaperinus e, não influenciou o desempenho.

Effect of cypermethrin on the control of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and broiler performance / Efeito da cipermetrina no controle de cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus) sobre o desempenho de frangos de corte

This study analysed the effectiveness of using different levels of a product based on 6% cypermethrin and 2% citronella on broiler production and control the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus). A total of 648 one-day-old chicks (Cobb®) which were allocated to one of three treatments (no application of the commercial product - control, and two concentrations of the product 2.00 and 3.33g/m2) in eight replicates with 27 birds each. The commercial product, which was based on cypermethrin was applied in the chambers with an atomizer. The lesser mealworm population was sampled weekly (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment) using traps, at three points (front, middle and back) inside the pen. The performance, carcass and cut yields were evaluated. At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment, the number of lesser mealworm adults and larvae was lower in the treatment groups involving 2.00 and 3.33g/m2 of the product than in the control group. On the first and 14th days of the study, the number of lesser mealworms adults was lower in the group treated with 3.33g/m2 of the product compared to the control group, although the results did not differ statistically from those obtained with 2.00g/m2 of the product. In conclusion, the application of the commercial product at both concentrations (2.00 and 3.33g/m2) was effective in combating Alphitobius diaperinus adults and larvae, and the performance was not influenced by treatments.(AU)

Este estudo analisou a eficácia do uso de diferentes níveis de um produto à base de cipermetrina a 6% e citronela a 2%, na produção de frangos de corte e no controle do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus). Um total de 648 pintos de um dia de idade (Cobb®) foram distribuídos em três câmaras com os tratamentos (sem aplicação do produto comercial - controle, e duas concentrações do produto comercial - 2,00 e 3,33g/m2) em oito repetições com 27 aves cada. O produto comercial a base de cipermetrina foi aplicado nas câmaras com um atomizador. A população de cascudinho foi amostrada semanalmente (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento) usando armadilhas, em três pontos (frente, meio e fundo) de cada parcela. Foram avaliados o desempenho, rendimentos de carcaça e cortes. Aos 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento, o número de adultos e larvas de cascudinho foi menor nos grupos de tratamento envolvendo 2,00 e 3,33g/m2 do produto quando comparado ao grupo controle. No primeiro e no 14º dia do estudo, o número de cascudinhos adultos foi menor no grupo tratado com 3,33g/m2 do produto em comparação ao grupo controle, embora os resultados não tenham diferido estatisticamente daqueles obtidos com 2,00g/m2 do produto. A conversão alimentar de 1 a 21 dias de idade foi significativa, com os melhores resultados para essa variável quando aplicado 3,33g do produto por metro quadrado e no tratamento controle. Em conclusão, a aplicação do produto comercial em ambas as concentrações (2,00 e 3,33g/m2) foi eficaz no combate a adultos e larvas de Alphitobius diaperinus e, não influenciou o desempenho.(AU)

Benzophenyl urea insecticides – useful and eco-friendly options for insect pest control

Insecticides play a very important role in increasing production by protecting crops from destructive insect pests. But indiscriminate use of conventional and broad spectrum insecticides, leads to development of resistance, resurgence and environmental pollution. Therefore, it is necessary to select new, safe and less persistent products for ecofriendly and sustainable pest management. Benzophenyl urea based insecticides fit well in this aspect. These are basically inhibitors of the chitin synthesis in insects which make them strong candidate for the integrated pest management. Extensive research has been carried out on different aspects to assess the potentiality and environment friendliness of this group of insecticides. Thus, the aim of this review is to gather comprehensive information about benzophenyl urea insecticide related to its development, mode of action, bio-efficacy, environmental fate and eco-toxicity, which may be helpful for the researchers for future endeavour.

Bioactivity of Schinus molle L. and Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi. Essential Oils on Anticarsia gemmatalis (Hübner 1818)

Abstract Anticarsia gemmatalis is one of the main pests of the soybean crop, being controlled mainly with agrochemicals. The environmental and health risks, as well as the development of resistance by the pests, has led to the search for alternative control measures, aiming to use more eco-friendly procedures. The objective of this research was to evaluate the chemical composition and the bioactivity of Schinus molle and Schinus terebinthifolia essential oils (EOs) on A. gemmatalis. The major compound in both EOs was α-pinene (60.04 wt.% for S. molle and 38.49 wt.% for S. terebinthifolia). Bioassays were carried out with third instar larvae, with five replicates and each replicate with ten larvae, totaling 50 larvae per treatment. The oils were incorporated in the artificial diet (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% v/v). The controls were: water, Tween-80® 0.5% v/v, and novaluron 0.075% v/v. According to the Probit method, the S. terebinthifolia EO presented a LC50 of 1.74% v/v (1.58-1.97% v/v); it was not possible to determine the LC50 for the S. molle EO. The mortality percentage after 24 and 48 h was 52% and 30% at 2.0% v/v for S. terebinthifolia and S. molle oil, respectively. After 72 h, the mortality rate for S. molle EO have not changed; for S. terebinthifolia EO it increased to 70%; the larvae treated with the chemical control (synthetic insecticide) had a mortality of 100%.

Selection and molecular characterization of Bacillus thuringiensis strains efficient against soybean looper (Chrysodeixis includens) and Spodoptera species

ABSTRACT Soybean looper (Chrysodeixis includens) and Spodoptera group are important defoliators insects responsible for significant yield losses in soybean, cotton and maize in Brazil. Bioinsecticides and transgenic plants expressing insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis are among the most used sustainable control methods for pest control in agriculture, especially for several lepidopteran species. To provide new components for insect control, this study aimed to select and characterize B. thuringiensis strains toxic to C. includens, S. cosmioides, S. eridania, and S. frugiperda. We performed initial bioassays with fifty B. thuringiensis strains for C. includens and selected four strains - 1608A, 726, 773, and 775E - that caused high larval mortality (100%) to be tested against Spodoptera species. These strains harbored cry insecticidal genes, megaplasmids, absence of β-exotoxin and showed two major proteins about 65 and 130 kDa in SDS-page attributed to Cry protein classes toxic to lepidopteran species. The 1608A and 775E strains also showed high toxicity to Spodoptera species that demonstrate great potential for B. thuringiensis-based bioproduct development and as sources of new insecticidal genes for transgenic crops for multiple pest control relevant in the Brazilian agricultural system.

Deltamethrin resistance in Chagas disease vectors colonizing oil palm plantations: implications for vector control strategies in a public health-agriculture interface / Resistência à deltametrina em vetores da doença de Chagas que colonizam plantações de dendezeiros: implicações para estratégias de controle de vetores em uma interface saúde pública-agricultura

Background: Triatomine bugs are responsible for the vectorial transmission of the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, etiological agent of Chagas disease, a zoonosis afecting 10 million people and with 25 million at risk of infection. Several triatomine species of the genus Rhodnius have been found inhabiting palm crowns where insects can fnd shelter in leaves axils and blood from palm-associated vertebrates. Rhodnius prolixus insects have been collected in oil palms in Colombia, and high T. cruzi infection rates were found. Since pest control is carried out in oil palm plantations, continuous exposure to insecticides could be occurring in these triatomines. Some insecticides suggested for pest control in oil palm plantations are also recommended for triatomine control in human dwellings. In this study, our objective was to assess if triatomines inhabiting oil palms exhibit resistance to deltamethrin, an insecticide used for vector control. Methods: Rhodnius prolixus nymphs were sampled in oil palms located in Tauramena, Colombia. To determine deltamethrin resistance, biological and biochemical assays were carried out on ffth-instar nymphs from the F1 generation. For biological assays, pure and commercial deltamethrin were used, and in biochemical assays, activities of detoxifying enzymes related to pyrethroid resistance, such as oxidases, esterases and transferases, were quantifed. Results: Deltamethrin lethal dosage 50 and 90 in R. prolixus from oil palms was signifcantly higher than in those from a susceptible colony suggesting possible deltamethrin resistance. Moreover, mortality with commercial deltamethrin was very low in insects from oil palms. In biochemical assays, the activity of evaluated detoxifying enzymes was signifcantly higher in R. prolixus from oil palms than in those from the susceptible colony. Conclusions: Possible deltamethrin resistance found in R. prolixus insects from oil palms could threaten traditional vector control strategies in urban settings if insecticide-resistant triatomines can migrate from oil palms plantations. In palm oil producer countries such as Colombia, the oil palm plantations are growing constantly during the last years. We suggest that pest control strategies in oil palm crops should include triatomine surveillance and toxicological monitoring, especially in zones with several Chagas disease cases

Leptolegnia chapmanii como alternativa biológica para el control de Aedes aegypti / Leptolegnia chapmanii as a biological alternative to control Aedes aegypti

Leptolegnia chapmanii es un microorganismo patógeno facultativo de diversas especies de mosquito, entre las que se destacan, por su importancia médica y sanitaria, especies de los géneros Aedes, Culex y Anopheles. El potencial de L. chapmanii como alternativa de control radica en la virulencia, capacidad patógena y grado de especificidad que presenta hacia los estadios larvales de las diferentes especies de mosquito, y por su inocuidad frente a organismos acuáticos no blanco como, por ejemplo, peces y anfibios. Su presencia natural ha sido reportada en Argentina, Brasil, y Estados Unidos, pensándose como posible en otros países dentro del continente americano. La eficacia de L. chapmanii como controlador se ve influenciada por factores externos, como la temperatura, la radiación y el pH, entre otros. Uno de los objetivos de trabajo del Grupo de Hongos Entomopatógenos del Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores de la Universidad Nacional de La Plata, corresponde al desarrollo de protocolos para la producción, formulación, almacenamiento y aplicación de productos basados en este microorganismo. Con este referente, estamos desarrollando un proyecto con L. chapmanii que se encuentra en la fase inicial, en la que se está trabajando la prueba de concepto a escala de laboratorio. Se espera continuar en el futuro con estudios de eficacia, eficiencia, estabilidad y seguridad ecotoxicológica, a diferentes escalas.

Leptolegnia chapmanii is a facultative pathogen of many species of mosquitoes, among which species of the genus Aedes, Culex and Anopheles stand out for their medical and sanitary importance. The potential of L. chapmanii as an alternative to control lies in its virulence, pathogenicity and specificity against the larval stages of mosquitoes, and because of its harmlessness to non-target species such as fish and amphibians, among others. The natural presence of L. chapmanii had been reported in Argentina, Brazil and the United States. Its presence is possible in other countries throughout the American continent. The development of protocols to produce, formulate, store and apply products based on this microorganism is one of the objectives proposed for the group of Entomopathogenic Fungi at the Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. The efficacy of L. chapmanii as controller is affected by external factors such as temperature, pH, salinity and radiation among others. The process of transfer from the research centers to industry implies many phases. In this way, our project with L. chapmanii is in an initial phase, where we are working on a laboratory scale in proof of concept. We hope to begin soon with the efficacy, efficiency, stability and ecotoxicological safety tests, at the laboratory, semi-field and field scale.

EFECTO BIOPLAGUICIDA DE EXTRACTOS VEGETALES PARA EL CONTROL DE Spodoptera frugiperda EN EL CULTIVO DE MAÍZ (Zea mays) / Bioplaguicide Effect of Vegetal Extracts to Control of Spodoptera frugiperda in Corn Crop (Zea mays)

RESUMEN El maíz es el segundo cereal de mayor producción en Colombia con un 21,9 % de la superficie total. La plaga Spodoptera frugiperda ataca la planta desde las primeras semanas de crecimiento, devorando sus hojas, tallo y granos; disminuyendo el rendimiento de los cultivos. Esta plaga se controla con el uso indiscriminado de plaguicidas sintéticos como: carbofurano, clorpirifos y atrazina. En esta investigación, los extractos de Azadirachta indica, Piper nigrum, Petiveria alliacea y sus mezclas; y los extractos de Nicotiana tabacum, Lippia alba, Allium sativum y sus mezclas se aplicaron como bioplaguicidas en plantas de maíz amarillo tradicional. Después de la tercera semana de crecimiento, los tratamientos se aplicaron dos veces al día cada tres días durante siete semanas. Las variables estudiadas fueron número de larvas muertas, altura de las plantas y daño en hojas y tallos. Las plantas tratadas crecieron dos veces más y su grado de afectación, según la escala de Mihm, fue menor que las plantas del grupo testigo. Los porcentajes de eficacia de las seis especies vegetales y sus mezclas fueron representativos (>80 %), de acuerdo con Henderson y Tilton, demostrando que estos extractos vegetales son una alternativa viable para el control de S. frugiperda.

ABSTRACT The corn crop is the second largest cereal in Colombia with 21.9 % of the total area produced. The plague Spodoptera frugiperda, attacks the plant from the first weeks of growth, devouring its leaves, stalk and grains; decreasing crop yield. This pest is controlled by the non-controlled use of synthetic pesticides such as, carbofuran, chlorpyrifos and atrazine. In this research, the extracts of Azadirachta indica, Piper nigrum, Petiveria alliacea and their mixtures; and extracts of Nicotiana tabacum, Lippia alba, Allium sativum and their mixtures, were applied as bioplaguicides in corn plants. The application was performed twice a day each two days for seven weeks, after of third week of growth (when the larvae were first observed). The number of dead larvae, plant height and damage in leaves and stems were the study variables. The treated plants grew twice and their degree of affection, according to the Mihm scale, was lesser than plants in the control group. The efficiency percentages of the six plant species and its mixture were representative (>80 %), in according to Henderson and Tilton, resulting in these plant extracts are a viable alternative for pest control of S. frugiperda.

Discussion on the Non-pollution Cultivation Technology of Chaenomelis Fructus / 世界科学技术-中医药现代化

Chaenomelis Fructus is a traditional medicinal material derived from dry near-mature fruit of Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai. Chaenomelis Fructus has efficacy of leveling liver and relaxing tendons, harmonizing the stomach and resolving dampness. As the limit of the usage of available forest land, cultivated ginseng in the farmland would become the mainly Chaenomelis Fructus planting mode, meanwhile the non-polluted production technology would be the mainly development direction in the future. In this study, the non-polluted cultivation technology system of Chaenomelis Fructus was established based on the research results of field investigation in the cultivated regions. The system includes suitable planting regions selecting, planting method, field management, pest control and quality control. In order to promote the healthy and sustainable development of the cropland industry of Chaenomelis Fructus, the new varieties of good quality cultivated in farmland and the comprehensive prevention and control platform of disease and insect pest are put forward in this paper.

Ensayos de sensibilidad de larvas de Aedes aegypti y Culex quinquefasciatus frente al nematodo Heterorhabditis bacteriophora en condiciones de laboratorio / Laboratory susceptibility tests of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae to the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora

Resumen Introducción. Aedes aegypti es el vector de los virus del dengue, la fiebre amarilla, el Zika y el chikungunya, y Culex quinquefasciatus, de los virus de la encefalitis de Saint Louis y de la del Oeste del Nilo. Objetivo. Evaluar la capacidad infecciosa de Heterorhabditis bacteriophora N4 en larvas de C. quinquefasciatus y A. aegypti en el laboratorio. Materiales y métodos. Treinta larvas de segundo estadio de cada especie de mosquito se expusieron a diferentes dosis (0:1, 1:1, 5:1, 15:1, 100:1, 500:1, 750:1 y 1.500:1) de ejemplares juveniles infectivos del nematodo. Se hicieron cuatro réplicas por dosis. Resultados. El parasitismo varió entre 2,5 y 80 % en C. quinquefasciatus y entre 4,2 y 92,5 % en A. aegypti, con diferencias significativas entre las dosis (p<0,0001). Las DL50 fueron de 160,8 ejemplares juveniles infectivos por larva de C. quinquefasciatus y 113,6 por larva de A. aegypti; 4 a 6 % de los ejemplares juveniles infectivos llegaron a la fase adulta en C. quinquefasciatus, y 12 a 61 % en A. aegypti. Nuevos ejemplares juveniles infectivos aparecieron a partir de la dosis de 100:1. En A. aegypti aparecieron solo con dosis superiores a esta y, en C. quinquefasciatus, con una dosis de 1500:1. Se observó melanización de los ejemplares juveniles infectivos en las dos especies de mosquitos. Conclusión. Se estableció la sensibilidad de estas especies de mosquitos al parasitismo producido por un aislamiento autóctono de H. bacteriophora en condiciones de laboratorio y su potencial efecto como agente de control biológico.

Abstract Introduction: Aedes aegypti is the vector of dengue, yellow fever, Zika and Chikungunya viruses, and Culex quinquefasciatus is the vector of St. Louis and West Nile encephalitis viruses. Objective: To evaluate infectivity of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora N4 in C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti larvae under laboratory conditions. Materials and methods: Thirty second-instar larvae of the two mosquito species were exposed each to different doses (0:1, 1:1, 5:1, 15:1, 100:1, 500:1, 750:1 and 1,500:1) of nematode infective juveniles. Four replications per dose were performed. Results: Parasitism varied between 2.5 and 80 % in C. quinquefasciatus, and between 4.2 and 92.5 % in A. aegypti, with significant differences between doses (p<0.0001). DL50 were: 160.8 infective juveniles per larva for C. quinquefasciatus and 113.6 infective juveniles per larva for A. aegypti. In C. quinquefasciatus, 4 to 6 % of the infective juveniles developed to adults and in A. aegypti, 12- 61 %. In A. aegypti the emergence of new infective juveniles occurred with 100:1, 500:1, 750:1 and 1,500:1 infective juveniles per larva, and in C. quinquefasciatus, with 1,500:1 infective juveniles per larva. Melanization of infective juveniles was observed in both mosquito species. Conclusion: The susceptibility of these mosquito species to parasitism of an indigenous isolate of H. bacteriophora in the laboratory was demonstrated. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora N4 could be an efficient biological control agent.

Modelo matemático para la planificación de servicios y programación de rutas en empresas prestadoras de servicios de control de plagas

Este artículo aborda el problema de la programación de servicios y planificación de rutas para empresas prestadoras de servicio de control de plagas (CP) considerando la minimización de los costos relacionados con las distancias recorridas por los vehículos usados y el costo del tiempo ocioso de los operarios. El problema considera actividades programadas, fechas de atención no disponibles, capacidad instalada, y datos de demanda previa obtenida de los clientes. La problemática consiste en la programación de los servicios y la planificación de las rutas de atención considerando ventanas de tiempo. En particular, se ha propuesto un modelo de programación lineal entera mixta, que busca mejorar la gestión logística de empresas que pertenecen a este sector. El modelo se ha probado con datos de una compañía colombiana que presta los servicios de CP en las principales ciudades colombianas. Los resultados obtenidos reflejan la importancia y eficiencia de la metodología propuesta como alternativa para la solución de la problemática en cuestión.

This paper addresses the problem of scheduling of services and planning of routes for companies which offer the service of pest control (CP) by considering the minimization of costs related to the distance traveled by the used vehicles and the cost of the cost of idle time of operators. The problem considers scheduled activities, dates not available and installed capacity, and data of demand previously provided by the customers. The problem consists of the scheduling and planning of the routes by considering time windows. In particular it is proposed a mixed integer linear programming model to improve the logistic management process of companies belonging to this sector The model has been tested with data obtained from a Colombian company that provides the CP services in the main Colombian cities. The results show the importance and efficiency of the proposed methodology as an alternative to the solution of the considered problem.

Este artigo discute o problema do agendamento de serviços e planejamento de rota para o controle de empresas de serviços de pragas (CP), considerando a minimização de custos relacionados com as distâncias percorridas pelos veículos usados e o custo do tempo ocioso de operadores . O problema considera actividades programadas, as datas não importa disponível, capacidade e dados de demanda obtidos a partir de clientes anteriores instalado. O problema é o de serviços de programação e cuidado planeamento da rota, considerando janelas de tempo. Em particular, ele propôs um modelo de programação linear inteira mista, que visa melhorar as empresas de gestão logística pertencentes a este sector. O modelo foi testado com dados de uma empresa colombiana, que fornece serviços de CP nas principais cidades colombianas. Os resultados mostram a importância e eficiência da metodologia proposta como uma alternativa para resolver o problema em questão.

Insecticidal effect of the ethanol extract of Baccharis dracunculifolia (Asterales: Asteraceae) / Efecto insecticida del extracto de etanol de Baccharis dracunculifolia (Asterales: Asteraceae)

AbstractInsecticides from plants have been studied as an alternative in agricultural production and in vector control of human diseases. The use of botanical insecticides may cause mortality in different stages, slow growth, infertile adults and decrease in viability of insect eggs. This study aimed to analyze the insecticidal potential of ethanol extract of Baccharis dracunculifolia DC, on Spodoptera frugiperda Smith, 1797 (Noctuidae) and Aedes aegypti L., 1762 (Culicidae). The botanical material was collected and prepared on February 8th, 2011 on the Fazenda Escola Três Barras (20°33'37.44043" S - 54°32'10.3824" W), Campo Grande, MS. The ethanol extract was prepared from dried leaves obtained of adult plants in a vegetative state at the Chemistry Laboratory of Anhanguera University-Uniderp. The experiments of biological activities were conducted at the Entomology Laboratory of the Catholic University Don Bosco, in a controlled environment with an average temperature of 25 ºC and photoperiod 12 hr. Experiments with S. frugiperda were conducted from August to October 2014. The collection of A. aegypti eggs was made in January 2014 and the treatments were done from March 10th to 17th, 2014. In the development of S. frugiperda the extract caused effect on caterpillars subjected to treatment at one and 10 days. The larval stage proved to be longer at both ages and pupal weight reduced at 10 days, as well as increased mortality at one day, when incorporated concentration 0.2 % into diet. The variables studied were mortality, larval duration, pupal weight, number and viability of the eggs. The bioassay used A. aedes third instar, 25 larvae per concentration, at four replicates. Parameters analysed for sublethal doses were pupal and larval, mortality, length larval and young (larva + pupa) the ethanol extract at concentrations 0.5 mg.mL-1 and 0.25 mg.mL-1. The extract resulted in deleterious effect on the development of caterpillars undergoing treatment in larvae of one and 10 days of age, the larval stage stretching, lower pupal weight in caterpillars 10 days and higher mortality in the group with one day of life. It did not interfere with the viability of eggs. In the life cycle of A. aegypti, the extract of B. dracuncufolia at the studied concentrations caused delay in the development of larval and pupal stages, and inhibited the emergence of adults in 85 % and 70 %. In laboratory conditions it can be said that the ethanol extract of B. dracunculifolia has a potential insecticide effect for both species of insects.

ResumenLos insecticidas de plantas han sido estudiados como una alternativa en la producción agrícola y el control de vectores de enfermedades humanas. El uso de insecticidas botánicos puede causar mortalidad en diferentes etapas, crecimiento lento, adultos infértiles y disminución en la viabilidad de huevos de insectos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar el potencial insecticida del extracto de etanol de Baccharis dracunculifolia DC, Spodoptera frugiperda Smith, 1797 (Noctuidae) y Aedes aegypti L., 1762 (Culicidae). Se recogió el material botánico y preparó el 8 de febrero 2011 en la Hacienda Escola Tres Barras. (20°33'37.44043" S - 54°32'10.3824" W), Campo Grande, MS. El extracto de etanol se preparó a partir de hojas secas obtenidas de plantas adultas en estado vegetativo en el Laboratorio de Química de la Universidad Anhanguera -Uniderp.Los experimentos de actividades biológicas se llevaron a cabo en el Laboratorio de Entomología de la Universidad Católica Don Bosco, en un ambiente controlado con una temperatura media de 25 °C y fotoperiodo de 12 hr. Los experimentos con S. frugiperda se llevaron a cabo de agosto a octubre 2014. La colección de huevos de A. aegypti se hizo en enero 2014 y los tratamientos se realizaron del 10 al 17 marzo 2014. En el desarrollo de S. frugiperda el extracto causa efecto sobre orugas sometidas a tratamiento de uno y 10 días. La etapa larval resultó ser más larga en ambas edades y el peso de la pupa se redujo a los 10 días; también, hubo aumento de la mortalidad en larvas de un día, cuando se incorporó la concentración 0.2 % en la dieta. Las variables estudiadas fueron la mortalidad, la duración de las larvas, el peso de las pupas, y el número y viabilidad de los huevos. El bioensayo utilizó A. aedes en tercer instar, y 25 larvas por concentración, en cuatro repeticiones. Los parámetros analizados para las dosis sub-letal fueran las pupa y larva, mortalidad, duración de las larvas y jóvenes (+ larva pupa) en el extracto de etanol a concentraciones de 0.5 mg.mL-1 y 0.25 mg.mL-1. El extracto resultó en efecto perjudicial sobre el desarrollo de las orugas de uno y 10 días de edad, sometidas a los tratamientos, prolongación de la fase larvaria, menor peso de pupa en las orugas de 10 días y una mayor mortalidad en el grupo con un día de vida. No hubo interferencia con la viabilidad de los huevos. En el ciclo de vida de A. aegypti, el extracto de B. dracuncufolia en las concentraciones del estudio, causó retraso en el desarrollo de las etapas de larva y pupa, y se inhibió la emergencia de los adultos en un 85 % y el 70 %. En condiciones de laboratorio, se puede decir que el extracto de etanol de B. dracunculifolia tiene potencial insecticida para ambas especies de insectos.