Spatio-temporal composition of aquatic birds communityin Juluapan Lagoon, Colima, Mexican Central Pacific / Composición espacio-temporal de las aves acuáticas en la laguna Juluapan, Colima, en el Pacífico Central Mexicano

Abstract Introduction: Aquatic birds (AB) are usually associated with wetlands, which provide refuge, food, and/or nesting sites for resident and migratory species. Despite their ecological importance, there is little knowledge on AB in some tropical environments, such as those found on the Colima coast. Objective: To investigate the spatial and temporal composition of the AB community in Juluapan Lagoon, Colima, Central Mexican Pacific. Methods: Monthly counts were conducted between June 2017 and May 2018 during low-tide conditions to record habitat use by AB. Species richness and bird counts were obtained to compare sampling areas; mean richness and number of individuals were compared between seasons. Results: We detected 53 species and 5 750 individuals. The highest species richness and relative abundance values were obtained in winter at the lagoon area farthest from the connection with the marine system, where anthropogenic activity is lower. Diversity was greater in zones 2 and 3 in spring, summer, and fall. Muddy flats were the most used environment, and the most frequent activity was resting. Nesting activity was only recorded in the middle of the lagoon at the mangrove during spring. "Shorebirds" and "waders" were the most dominant groups in the bird community of the Juluapan lagoon. Conclusions: This coastal wetland is a site of great biological importance for aquatic birds; thus, conservation measures should be implemented, and there should be a continuous study of the effects of anthropogenic pressure.

Resumen Introducción: Las aves acuáticas (AA) son usualmente relacionadas a los humedales debido a que éstos funcionan como sitios de refugio, alimentación y anidación de diferentes especies residentes y migratorias. Sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre las aves acuáticas en algunos humedales es nulo. Objetivo: Investigar la composición espacio-temporal de la comunidad de AA en la laguna Juluapan, Colima, en el Pacífico Central Mexicano. Métodos: Entre junio de 2017 y mayo de 2018 se llevaron a cabo conteos mensuales en condiciones de marea baja para registrar el uso de hábitat de las AA. Se obtuvieron valores de riqueza de especies y número de individuos para realizar comparaciones entre zonas de muestreo, así como el promedio del número de especies y número de individuos para comparaciones entre temporadas. Resultados: Se registraron un total de 53 especies y 5 750 individuos. Los valores de riqueza de especies y densidad de individuos fueron más altos durante invierno, en la zona más alejada al ambiente marino, donde la actividad antropogénica es menor. La diversidad tuvo valores más altos en la zona 2 y 3, durante primavera, verano y otoño. El ambiente más explotado por las aves fueron las planicies lodosas; y el descanso fue la actividad más frecuente. Asimismo, la actividad de anidación sólo se registró en el manglar de la zona media durante primavera. Las "aves playeras" y "aves zancudas" fueron los grupos más predominantes en la comunidad de aves de la laguna Juluapan. Conclusiones: Este humedal costero es un sitio de gran importancia biológica para aves acuáticas, por lo que resulta necesario la implementación de medidas de conservación, así como el estudio de los efectos por la presión antropogénica.

Zarzio Ameliorates Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Induced By a High Fat Diet in a Rat Experimental Model: A Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

SUMMARY: The therapeutic effect of a granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) biosimilar drug, zarzio, on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a rat model was investigated in this study. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups. Groups I and II were fed a standard laboratory diet, whereas groups III and IV were fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 14 weeks. After 12 weeks of feeding, groups I and III were administered normal saline, and groups II and IV were intraperitoneally administered zarzio (200 mg/kg/day) for two consecutive weeks. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to assess hepatic and pancreatic morphology in all groups, oil red O (ORO) staining for lipid accumulation, Masson's staining for fibrosis, and immunohistochemistry assay for hepatic protein expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and pancreatic caspase-3. The NAFLD rats (group III) developed hepatic steatosis with increased lipid accumulation, perisinusoidal fibrosis, upregulated IRS1, TNF-α (all P<0.05) without a significant increase in Nrf2 protein expression compared with normal control. In comparison, model rats treated with zarzio (group IV) showed significant rejuvenation of the hepatic architecture, reduction of fat accumulation, and fibrosis. This was accompanied by the upregulation of Nrf2, downregulation of IRS1 and TNF-α protein expression (all P<0.05). No correlation was detected between NAFLD and non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease (NAFPD). However, the pancreatic β-cells in group III showed increased caspase-3 expression, which was decreased (P<0.05) in group IV. In conclusion, zarzio ameliorates NAFLD by improving the antioxidant capacity of liver cells, reducing hepatic IRS1, TNF-α protein expression and pancreatic β-cells apoptosis, suggesting that zarzio could be used as a potential therapy for NAFLD.

En este estudio se investigó el efecto terapéutico de un fármaco biosimilar del factor estimulante de colonias de granulocitos (G-CSF), zarzio, sobre la enfermedaddel hígado graso no alcohólico (NAFLD) en un modelo de rata. Treinta y dos ratas se dividieron aleatoriamente en cuatro grupos. Los grupos I y II fueron alimentados con una dieta estándar de laboratorio, mientras que los grupos III y IV fueron alimentados con una dieta alta en grasas (HFD) durante 14 semanas. Después de 12 semanas de alimentación, a los grupos I y III se les administró solución salina normal, y a los grupos II y IV se les administró zarzio por vía intraperitoneal (200 mg/kg/ día) durante dos semanas consecutivas. Se utilizó tinción de hematoxilina-eosina (H&E) para evaluar la morfología hepática y pancreática en todos los grupos, tinción con rojo aceite O (ORO) para la acumulación de lípidos, tinción de Masson para la fibrosis y ensayo de inmunohistoquímica para la expresión de la proteína hepática del sustrato 1 del receptor de insulina (IRS1), factor nuclear eritroide 2 relacionado con el factor 2 (Nrf2), factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-α) y caspasa-3 pancreática. Las ratas NAFLD (grupo III) desarrollaron esteatosis hepática con aumento de la acumulación de lípidos, fibrosis perisinusoidal, IRS1 y TNF-α regulados positivamente (todos P <0,05) sin un aumento significativo en la expresión de la proteína Nrf2 en comparación con el control normal. En comparación, las ratas modelo tratadas con zarzio (grupo IV) mostraron un rejuvenecimiento significativo de la arquitectura hepática, una reducción de la acumulación de grasa y fibrosis. Esto estuvo acompañado por la regulación positiva de Nrf2, la regulación negativa de la expresión de la proteína IRS1 y TNF-α (todas P <0,05). No se detectó correlación entre NAFLD y la enfermedad del páncreas graso no alcohólico (NAFPD). Sin embargo, las células β pancreáticas en el grupo III mostraron una mayor expresión de caspasa-3, que disminuyó (P <0,05) en el grupo IV. En conclusión, zarzio mejora la NAFLD al mejorar la capacidad antioxidante de las células hepáticas, reduciendo el IRS1 hepático, la expresión de la proteína TNF-α y la apoptosis de las células β pancreáticas, lo que sugiere que zarzio podría usarse como una terapia potencial para la NAFLD.

Composición de los macroinvertebrados según la calidad del agua en turberas de altura, Costa Rica / Composition of macroinvertebrates according to water quality in high altitude peatbogs, Costa Rica

Resumen Introducción: En Costa Rica, las turberas de altura se localizan en la Cordillera de Talamanca de 2 400 a 3 200 m. Se forman a partir de depósitos de materia orgánica en descomposición, con oxígeno reducido y baja disponibilidad de nutrientes. Objetivo: Evaluar la variación en la composición de macroinvertebrados acuáticos según parámetros fisicoquímicos de calidad del agua superficial en turberas de altura, Costa Rica. Métodos: Se colocaron 32 sustratos artificiales en las turberas para ser colonizados por macroinvertebrados. Se realizaron evaluaciones fisicoquímicas mensuales del agua superficial en ocho turberas con visitas mensuales durante la estación lluviosa. Se utilizaron los índices ICA-NSF y BMWP-CR para evaluar la calidad del agua. Resultados: Se registraron un total de diez familias correspondientes a siete géneros. Las familias más representativas fueron Chironomidae y Limnephilidae. La calidad del agua se clasificó según el ICA-NSF como de "calidad media" y como de "calidad regular a mala" según el BMWP-CR. Conclusiones: Las turberas de altura son ecosistemas poco estudiados, esta investigación evidencia la necesidad de diseñar metodologías e índices que evalúen la fauna acuática. Las turberas son diferentes entre sí, y las familias de macroinvertebrados encontrados son tolerantes a las características fisicoquímicas del agua. Es necesario realizar estudios periódicos que evalúen la calidad del agua y su relación con los macroinvertebrados acuáticos para entender la dinámica de las turberas, generar conocimiento e incrementar su protección.

Abstract Introduction: In Costa Rica, high peatbogs are located in the Cordillera de Talamanca from 2 400 to 3 200 m. They are formed from deposits of decomposing organic matter, with reduced oxygen and low nutrient availability. Objective: To evaluate the variation in the composition of aquatic macroinvertebrates according to physicochemical parameters of superficial water quality in high altitude peatbogs, Costa Rica. Methods: 32 artificial substrates were placed in the peatbogs to be colonized by macroinvertebrates. Monthly physicochemical evaluations of surface water were performed in eight peatbogs with monthly visits during the rainy season. The ICA-NSF and BMWP-CR indexes were used to evaluate the water quality. Results: A total of ten families corresponding to seven genera were recorded. The most representative family was Chironomidae and Limnephilidae. Water quality was classified according to the ICA-NSF as "medium quality" and as "regular to poor quality" according to BMWP-CR. Conclusions: The high peatbogs are poorly studied ecosystems; this research shows the need to design methodologies and indices to evaluate the aquatic fauna. The peatbogs are different from each other, and the families of macroinvertebrates found are tolerant to the physicochemical characteristics of the water. Periodic studies that evaluate water quality and its relationship with aquatic macroinvertebrates are necessary to understand the dynamics of peatlands, generate knowledge and increase their protection.

Sterilization and Substrate Level Optimization for Improving Yield and Biological Efficiency of Paddy Straw Mushroom

A study was conducted to determine the impact of surface sterilization techniques and different quantity of bed substrate on yield and biological efficiency in paddy straw mushroom cultivation. Among the various combinations of sterilization methods i.e., Plain water, Plain water + Calcium oxide @ 2%, Plain water + Bavistin 75 ppm & Formalin 500 ppm and steam sterilization 55 for ½ hour respectively tried on paddy straw substrate, Maximum yield and biological efficiency (1966 g & 15.2%) was obtained. To evaluate the biological efficiency of different layers and quantity of straw in bed method of cultivation i.e., 5 layers (4.0 kg), 4 layers (3.2 kg), 3 layers (2.4 kg) and 2 layers (1.6 kg) were tested. on biological efficiency four layers bed proved its superiority among all the number of substrate layers experimented, and gave highest biological efficiency (17.6%) followed by three layers and five layers (15.2%) and (14.5%) respectively. Two layers of bed (1.6 kg) were found to be less suitable and gave 13.8% biological efficiency of paddy straw. Maximum average weight of sporophores (24.21 g) was observed from four layers of beds followed by three layers and five layers (20.88 g) and (19.98 g) respectively. Smaller size sporophores were noticed in two layers of beds (14.18 g).

Response of 'criolla' potato (Solanum tuberosum) cultivar Colombia to mineral organic fertilization

The 'Criolla' potato (Solanum tuberosum) phureja group cultivated in the inter-Andean valleys of the high tropics, is commonly fertilized only with mineral nutrients in conventional production, without the use of soil test and use of organic fertilizers. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential of organic chicken manure as a source of nutrients to increase yield and quality in 'Criolla' potatoes compared to conventional fertilization. Treatments evaluated were organic chicken manure, mineral nutrition based on soil tests, organic manure mixed with mineral nutrition, and conventional nutrition based on farmers' typical nutrition plans. In plant response conventional and mineral treatments mixed with organic matter were the best in leaf area and dry weight of shoot and tuber. Treatment with mineral nutrition mixed with organic manure (2 and 6 t) obtained the largest length of the main stems. The best yield response was obtained with conventional nutrition, while the major size was obtained with mineral and mineral combined with organic treatments. According to the results, the best response was obtained with the application of mineral nutrition in the combination of 6 t ha-1 organic manure.

La papa criolla (Solanum tuberosum) grupo phureja es cultivada en los valles interandinos del trópico alto, comúnmente fertilizada con nutrientes minerales en la producción convencional, sin hacer uso de análisis de suelos y nutrición con fertilizantes orgánicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el potencial de la materia orgánica de gallinaza, como fuente de nutrientes, para incrementar el rendimiento y la calidad en la papa criolla, comparándola con la nutrición convencional. Los tratamientos evaluados fueron gallinaza, nutrición mineral, basado en análisis de suelos; nutrición mineral, combinada con materia orgánica y un tratamiento soportado en la fertilización convencional, con base en los planes nutricionales, típicos de los agricultores. En las respuestas de la planta, los tratamientos convencionales y minerales mezclados con nutrición mineral obtuvieron los valores más altos en área foliar y peso seco de la parte aérea y el tubérculo. En longitud de tallo, la mejor respuesta se obtuvo con los tratamientos minerales mezclados con materia orgánica (2 y 6 toneladas). La mejor respuesta en rendimiento fue obtenida en la nutrición mineral convencional, mientras que las papas con mayor calibre, se lograron con los tratamientos mineral y mineral mezclado con orgánico. De acuerdo con los resultados, la mejor respuesta en cultivo se puede obtener con la nutrición mineral, en combinación con 6 toneladas de materia orgánica.

Breaking up sedentary time to improve glucose control in a population at risk for developing type 2 diabetes (BURST2D study): a randomized controlled trial

Background: To compare the acute and chronic effects of frequent, short physical activity (PA) bouts spread throughout the day to a time-matched intervention consisting in a single continuous daily bout of PA on glucose control and potential underlying mechanisms in adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: BURST2D is a single-center, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, in which sedentary adults with overweight/obesity and pre-diabetes (18-45 y, BMI: 25-40 kg/m2, fasting glucose: 100-125 mg/dL or 2h glucose: 140-199 mg/dL or HbA1c: 5.7-6.4%) will be randomly assigned to one of two 3-month PA interventions: BREAK, nine bouts of 5-min brisk walking performed every hour for nine consecutive hours (45-min/d total), 5 days/wk; ONE, one continuous 45-min bout of brisk walking, 5 days/wk. Primary outcomes will be daily glycemic mean and variability, fasting glucose and HbA1c, postprandial plasma glucose and insulin, glucose kinetics, and content of skeletal muscle proteins related to insulin signaling and glucose uptake. Secondary outcomes will be whole-body insulin sensitivity, 24-h total substrate oxidation, postprandial triglycerides, daily PA and sedentary behavior (SB) patterns, knowledge and attitude towards PA and SB, barriers and facilitators to intervention compliance, self-perceived appetite, mood, and sleep. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after one month and/or three months of intervention. Conclusions: This study will establish the acute and chronic effects of breaking up SB, independent of increases in PA, on glucose control and underlying mechanisms in adults with pre-diabetes. Results will advance the science of T2D prevention. Trial registration: This study is registered with the ClinicalTrials.gov, registry number NTC05041491

Actividades ligninolíticas y producción de basidiomas de Ganoderma lucidum en cultivo sólido suplementado con manganeso / Ligninolytic activities and production of Ganoderma lucidum basidiomes in solid culture supplemented with manganese

RESUMEN Ganoderma lucidum es un basidiomiceto de pudrición blanca estudiado especialmente por sus atributos medicinales. No obstante, la información sobre la suplementación de los medios de cultivo con metales como Zn, Li, Mn, Cu es escasa aun conociendo que la presencia de metales en los sustratos mejora las características de los basidiomas obtenidos e incrementa su productividad. El objetivo fue evaluar las actividades enzimáticas lacasa (Lc) y manganeso peroxidasa (MnP), la fructificación y eficiencia biológica (EB) de G. lucidum en cultivos sólidos formulados con residuos agroindustriales (aserrín de roble, cascarilla de café, salvado de maíz) suplementados con dos niveles de sal de manganeso II (0,05 % y 0,1 % p/p) y una formulación sin adición de la sal de manganeso. Las actividades enzimáticas se determinaron durante 98 días del ciclo productivo, con toma de muestras semanales. El tratamiento uno (0,05 % p/p de MnSO4H2O) suministró la mayor EB del cultivo con 25,90 ± 2,12 % y los mayores títulos de actividades ligninolíticas en el tiempo con 0,7299 UE/g s.s. de MnP a los 35 días de fermentación y 4,1 760 UE/g s.s para la actividad de Lc a los 42 días de proceso con relación a los tratamientos dos y control. Asimismo, hubo una disminución del ciclo de cultivo del hongo para los tratamientos uno (83 días) y dos (95 días) en comparación con el tratamiento control (117 días). Los resultados de este trabajo son promisorios para cultivadores industriales de G. lucidum, ya que la suplementación de los sustratos con Mn incrementa la productividad de los cultivos.

ABSTRACT Ganoderma lucidum is a white rot basidiomycete specially studied for its medicinal attributes. However, the information on the supplementation of the substrate with metals such as Zn, Li, Mn, Cu and others is scarce. Even knowing that the presence of metals in the substrates improves the characteristics of the basidiomes produced and increases their productivity. The objective was to evaluate the enzymatic activities laccase (Lc) and manganese peroxidase (MnP). The fructification and biological efficiency (BE) of G. lucidum in solid culture formulated with agroindustrial residues, (oak sawdust, coffee husk, bran corn) supplemented with two levels of manganese II salt, (0.05 % and 0.1 % w/ w) and a formulation without addition of manganese II salt. Enzymatic activities were determined during 98 days of the production cycle, with weekly sampling. Treatment one (0.05 % w/w MnSO4.H2O) provided the highest BE of the culture with 25.90 ± 0.54% and the highest titers of ligninolytic activities, in the time with 0.7299 EU/g d.s for MnP at 35 days of fermentation and 4.1760 EU/g d.s for Lc activity at 42 days of process, in relation to treatments two and control. Likewise, there was a decrease in the fungus culture cycle for treatments one (83 days) and two (95 days) compared to the control treatment (117 days). The results of this work are promising for industrial growers of G. lucidum, since the supplementation of the substrates with Mn increase the productivity of the cultures.

Physiological Quality of Badea Seeds (Passiflora quadrangularis L.) with and Without Storingon Different Substrates

Badea is known for the size and shape of the fruit, or as giant passion fruit. The propagation of passifloraceas is mainly done by means of seeds. Seed conservation is one of the main steps in seedling production that makes it possible to guarantee the maximum quality of theseed for a given period oftime and can be done through refrigeration.The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Tocantins, city of Gurupi/TO, from March 17 to August 10, 2020. After fruit harvesting, pulping was performed using running water and light friction in the nylon sieve with sand to facilitate the separation of the seed and pulp. Then the seeds were placed on a paper towel for 24hours, partly storedin the refrigerator for 10 days, and another part is sownimmediately. The seeds of passion fruit melon, without storage, sowed in the commercial substrate, showed greater viability and vigor.

Optical substrates for drug-metabolizing enzymes: Recent advances and future perspectives

Drug-metabolizing enzymes (DMEs), a diverse group of enzymes responsible for the metabolic elimination of drugs and other xenobiotics, have been recognized as the critical determinants to drug safety and efficacy. Deciphering and understanding the key roles of individual DMEs in drug metabolism and toxicity, as well as characterizing the interactions of central DMEs with xenobiotics require reliable, practical and highly specific tools for sensing the activities of these enzymes in biological systems. In the last few decades, the scientists have developed a variety of optical substrates for sensing human DMEs, parts of them have been successfully used for studying target enzyme(s) in tissue preparations and living systems. Herein, molecular design principals and recent advances in the development and applications of optical substrates for human DMEs have been reviewed systematically. Furthermore, the challenges and future perspectives in this field are also highlighted. The presented information offers a group of practical approaches and imaging tools for sensing DMEs activities in complex biological systems, which strongly facilitates high-throughput screening the modulators of target DMEs and studies on drug/herb‒drug interactions, as well as promotes the fundamental researches for exploring the relevance of DMEs to human diseases and drug treatment outcomes.

In vitro inhibitory effects of acteoside on 6 kinds of CYP enzymes in liver microsomes of rats / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To inv estigate the in vitro inhibitory effects of acteoside on cytochrome P 450（CYP）enzymes in liver microsomes of rats. METHODS Using probe substrates method ，acteoside（0.1，0.3，1，3，10，30 μmol/L）was incubated with probe substrates phenacetin ，mephentoin，diclofenac，coumarin，dextromethorphan and testosterone （substrates of CYP 1A2， CYP2C19，CYP2C9，CYP2A6，CYP2D6 and CYP 3A4 enzymes，respectively）in liver microsomes of rats. Another blank control group and positive inhibitor group [ α-naphthoflavone，ticlopidine，sulfabendazole，pilocarpine，quinidine and ketoconazole （inhibitors of CYP 1A2，CYP2C19，CYP2C9，CYP2A6，CYP2D6 and CYP 3A4 enzymes，respectively）] were set up. Using indapamide as the internal standard ， the contents of corresponding metabolites （acetaminophen， 4-hydroxymephenytoin， 4-hydroxydiclofenac，7-hydroxycoumarin，dextran，6 β-hydroxytestosterone） were detected by ultra high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry . The IC 50 values were calculated by GraphPad v 8.0 software. By computer molecular docking technology ，acteoside and positive inhibitors were molecularly docked with the CYP enzyme ，and the binding mode and strength of the two molecules were analyzed. RESULTS The IC 50 values of acteoside to CYP 1A2 and CYP 2A6 enzymes were more than 30 μmol/L，and those of acteoside to CYP 2D6，CYP2C19，CYP2C9 and CYP 3A4 enzymes were 24.87，21.52，12.56 and 7.55 μmol/L，respectively. The hydrogen bond and hydrophobic force could form between acteoside and CYP 3A4 enzyme，and the hydrogen bond and electrostatic interaction could form between ketoconazole and CYP 3A4 enzyme. The binding free energy of acteoside and ketoconazole to CYP 3A4 enzyme were － 10.2 and － 12.4 kcal/mol （1 kcal/mol＝4.19 kJ），respectively. CONCLUSIONS Acteoside shows moderate inhibitory effect on CYP 3A4 enzyme in liver microsomes of rats ，and its affinity is equivalent to that of positive inhibitor ；the compound shows weak inhibitory effect on other 5 CYP enzymes.

Application of nanocellulose in flexible sensors / 生物医学工程学杂志

The shortage of medical resources promotes medical treatment reform, and smart healthcare is a promising strategy to solve this problem. With the development of Internet, real-time health status is expected to be monitored at home by using flexible healthcare systems, which puts forward new demands on flexible substrates for sensors. Currently, the flexible substrates are mainly traditional petroleum-based polymers, which are not renewable. As a natural polymer, cellulose, owing to its wide range of sources, convenient processing, biodegradability and so on, is an ideal alternative. In this review, the application progress of nanocellulose in flexible sensors is summarized. The structure and the modification methods of cellulose and nanocellulose are introduced at first, and then the application of nanocellulose flexible sensors in real-time medical monitoring is summarized. Finally, the advantages and future challenges of nanocellulose in the field of flexible sensors are discussed.

Exopolysaccharyde production by Cryptococcus laurentii SD7 using molasses and corn steep liquor as substrates / Exopolysaccharyde production by Cryptococcus laurentii SD7 using molasses and corn steep liquor as substrates

Microbial polysaccharides are of great biotechnological and commercial interest and have wide application in the food, cosmetic and medicine industries. Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production by the yeast Cryptococcus laurentii SD7, isolated from fresh water molluscs, was studied using agro-industrial byproducts as substrates in the submerged fermentation. The Central Composite Design (CCD) 23 was used to study the influence of pH, different concentrations on sugarcane molasses and corn steep liquor (CSL), for 48 hours. According to the results, the highest EPS production occurred at the initial pH 5 and at 8.4% concentration of sugarcane molasses, which were statistically significant variable at 10% (p < 0.1). The concentration of CSL had no influence in the studied range, thus, it can be used lowest concentration (0.3%). The time course of EPS production showed that while cell growth peaked within 48 hours, the highest EPS production (6.61 g L-1) occurred at 168 hours, with a productivity of about 0.04 g L-1 h-1. The pH of the medium remained approximately constant throughout the fermentation process. The yeast C. laurentii SD7 showed great potential for EPS production at a low cost and with sustainable substrates.

Microbial polysaccharides are of great biotechnological and commercial interest and have wide application in the food, cosmetic and medicine industries. Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production by the yeast Cryptococcus laurentii SD7, isolated from fresh water molluscs, was studied using agro-industrial byproducts as substrates in the submerged fermentation. The Central Composite Design (CCD) 23 was used to study the influence of pH, different concentrations on sugarcane molasses and corn steep liquor (CSL), for 48 hours. According to the results, the highest EPS production occurred at the initial pH 5 and at 8.4% concentration of sugarcane molasses, which were statistically significant variable at 10% (p < 0.1). The concentration of CSL had no influence in the studied range, thus, it can be used lowest concentration (0.3%). The time course of EPS production showed that while cell growth peaked within 48 hours, the highest EPS production (6.61 g L-1) occurred at 168 hours, with a productivity of about 0.04 g L-1 h-1. The pH of the medium remained approximately constant throughout the fermentation process. The yeast C. laurentii SD7 showed great potential for EPS production at a low cost and with sustainable substrates.

Alternative substrates for conidiogenesis of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bals) Vuillemin (Deuteromycotina: Hyphomycetes) / Substratos alternativos para conidiogênese do fungo entomopatogênico Beauveria bassiana (Bals) Vuillemin (Deuteromycotina: Hyphomycetes)

Abstract Beauveria bassiana is a promising fungus for the biological control of insect pests. The growing costs of conidia production have raised the need to ascertain the efficiency of some low cost substrates. The aim of this study was to analyze the potential use of different raw substrates without nutritional supplement for B. bassiana conidiogenesis. Growth and sporulation were evaluated using 30 g of substrate and 0.3 μL of a conidia suspension (1 x 106 conidia/mL). After 10 days of incubation (70 ± 10% humidity and temperature (T) = 29 ± 1 °C), rice (2.00 x 106 conidia/g substrate), algaroba (2.36 x 106 conidia/g), malt A (1.22 x 106 conidia/g) and malt B (1.75 x 106 conidia/g) showed the highest levels of conidia production. The resulting conidia showed insecticidal activity higher than 80% on coconut termites. These new raw substrates may represent viable alternatives for the production of entomopathogenic fungi for use in the biological control of various insect pests.

Resumo Beauveria bassiana é um fungo promissor no controle biológico de insetos-praga. As crescentes despesas na produção de conídios levantam a necessidade de averiguar a eficiência de alguns substratos de baixo custo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o potencial de utilização de diferentes substratos brutos para a conidiogênese de B. bassiana. O crescimento e esporulação foram realizados utilizando 30 g do substrato e 0,3 µL da suspensão de conídios (1 x 106 conídios/mL). Após 10 dias de incubação (umidade 70 ± 10% e temperatura T = 29 ± 1° C), o arroz (2,00 x 106 conídios/g de substrato), algaroba (2,36 x 106 conídios/g), malte A (1,22 x 106 conídios/g) e B (1,75 x 106 conídios/g), apresentaram maior produção de conídios. Os conídios produzidos mostraram atividade inseticida sobre o cupim do coqueiro acima de 80% de mortalidade. Estes novos substratos brutos podem representar uma alternativa viável para produção de fungos entomopatogênicos para uso no controle biológico de vários insetos praga.

Development of Strain Loading Device for Adherent Cells in vitro / 医用生物力学

Objective To design a novel strain loading device for studying the mechanical biology of adherent cells. Methods Based on the technology of substrate deformation loading, the device adopted controllable stepper to cause deformation of the silastic chamber, so as to realize cell loading with multiple units and large strain. The device was developed to test its loading functions. The three-dimensional (3D) models of the silastic chamber were established to simulate the loaded chamber by the finite element technology, and uniformity of the strain field was analyzed. The device applied 5% strain to bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) with 0.5 Hz stretch frequency at 2 hours per day for 5 days, and an inverted phase contrast microscope was used to observe the morphology of BMSCs. Results The developed strain loading device for adherent cells in vitro could provide mechanical unidirectional strain up to 50% with three groups of cell loading substrates; within the 10% stain range, the area of uniform strain filed on the silastic chamber remained above 50%, which ensured that the cells were loaded evenly; the morphology of BMSCs was obviously altered, and the direction of arrangement tended to be perpendicular to the loading direction of principal strain. Conclusions The device shows the advantages of reliable operation, wide strain range, adjustable frequency and convenient operation. It can be used to load multiple cell culture substrates at the same time, which provides convenient conditions for the study of cell mechanobiology.

Aquatic Oligochaete Communities in Amazonian Streams, Saracá-Taquera National Forest, Pará, Brazil / Comunidade de oligoquetos aquáticos em riachos amazônicos, Floresta Nacional Saracá-Taquera, Pará, Brasil

Abstract: The aim of this study was to analyze aquatic oligochaete distribution in relation to water column physicochemical variables, structural environmental variation, and predominant substrates in the preserved Amazonian streams of the Saracá-Taquera National Forest (FLONA Saracá-Taquera), northwest Pará, Brazil. Oligochaetes are widely used as bioindicators for monitoring aquatic environments as they are very sensitive to pollution and environmental changes. Physicochemical and structural variables were measured from 100 stream segments in order to understand the distribution of oligochaetes in Amazonian streams. Biotic samples were collected using Surber samplers in three of the most predominant substrate types in each segment. PERMANOVA testing showed that there was a significant difference in the oligochaete community among some substrates, potentially caused by a difference in the abundance of the most common taxa. Canonical Correspondence Analysis showed that physical variables drive the distribution of oligochaetes in preserved Amazonian streams, as they determine the formation of different substrates along the stream, from the source to the mouth; favoring the presence of oligochaetes with more specific ecological needs in low-order streams, and the presence of oligochaetes capable of colonizing various types of substrates and deeper zones in high-order streams. These results suggest that water depth and channel width are the main drivers of aquatic oligochaete distribution along Amazonian streams, determining the formation of unstable and low-quality substrates and, consequently, the low colonization by oligochaetes in high-order streams; and more diverse and stable substrate formation in low-order streams, favoring the colonization by diverse taxa of aquatic oligochaetes in low-order Amazonian streams.

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a distribuição da comunidade de oligoquetos em relação às variáveis físico-químicas da coluna da água, variação estrutural do ambiente, e substratos predominantes em riachos amazônicos conservados na FLONA Saracá-Taquera, noroeste do Pará, Brasil. Oligochaetes são amplamente utilizados como bioindicadores para monitoramento de ambientes aquáticos, pois são muito sensíveis à poluição e às mudanças ambientais. Variáveis físico-químicas e estruturais de 100 trechos de riachos foram mensuradas para entender a distribuição de oligoquetos em riachos amazônicos. Amostras bióticas foram coletadas com amostrador Surber em três dos tipos de substratos mais predominantes em cada trecho. A PERMANOVA mostrou que há uma diferença significativa da comunidade de oligoquetos entre alguns substratos, possivelmente baseada nas diferenças no número do táxon mais comum. A Análise de Correspondência Canônica mostrou que as variáveis físicas controlam a distribuição da comunidade de oligoquetos em riachos amazônicos preservados, porque estas variáveis determinam a formação dos diferentes substratos ao longo do riacho, desde a nascente até a foz, favorecendo a presença de oligoquetos com necessidades ecológicas mais específicas em riachos de baixa ordem, e oligoquetos capazes de colonizar diferentes tipos de substrato e zonas mais profundas em riachos de ordem maior. Os resultados deste trabalho sugerem que a profundidade da água e a largura do canal são as variáveis que controlam a distribuição da comunidade de oligoquetos em riachos amazônicos, determinando a formação de substratos instáveis e de baixa qualidade, e consequentemente baixa colonização de oligoquetos, em riachos de ordem maior; e formação de substratos mais diversificados, mais estáveis e de qualidade em riachos de baixa ordem, favorecendo a colonização de diversos taxa de oligoquetos aquáticos em riachos amazônicos de baixa ordem.

Biofilm-forming capacity of two benthic microalgae, Navicula incerta and Navicula sp., on three substrates (Naviculales: Naviculaceae)

Benthic microalgae have the natural capacity to adhere to a diversity of fixed submerged substrates to form biofilms, which have important roles not only in natural ecosystems, but also in aquaculture systems. An experimental investigation was performed to assess the biofilm-forming capacity of two microalgae (Navicula incerta and Navicula sp.) on three different substrates (plastic net, fabric, and wood) under controlled temperature and light conditions. The substrates were arranged on curtains suspended from a wood stick, into plastic aquariums (45 L in capacity) filled with filtered marine water enriched with F/2 medium. The trial was carried out until the exponential growing phase of the microalgae was reached. After that, the incorporated biomass was gravimetrically calculated, and its biochemical composition was determined by standard methods. The greatest amount of incorporated dry matter was observed for Navicula sp. on fabric and the lowest was observed for wood. The highest number of cells associated with the biofilm was obtained for Navicula sp. on the plastic net (1.24 x 109 cells/m2), while the lowest was recorded for Navicula sp. on the wood (1.43 x 108 cells/m2). Significant differences in organic matter were found among the substrates, with the highest values for N. incerta on the fabric (3.22 g/m2) and the lowest for Navicula sp. on the wood (0.02 g/m2). The best biochemical profiles among the formed biofilms were observed for N. incerta on the plastic net and Navicula sp. on the fabric. The plastic net was considered the best substrate because of the stability of the biofilm and the easiness of harvesting the biomass.

Las microalgas bentónicas tienen la capacidad natural de adherirse a diversos sustratos fijos sumergidos para formar biopelículas, las cuales tienen roles importantes no solo en ecosistemas naturales sino también en sistemas de producción acuícolas. Se llevó a cabo una investigación experimental para evaluar la capacidad formadora de biopelículas de dos microalgas bentónicas (Navicula incerta y Navicula sp.) en tres diferentes sustratos (malla plástica, tela y madera), bajo condiciones controladas de temperatura y luz. Los sustratos fueron arreglados a manera de cortinas suspendidas de un tubo de PVC dentro de acuarios de plástico (45 L de capacidad) con agua marina enriquecida con el medio F/2. El experimento se llevó hasta que la fase de crecimiento exponencial de la microalga fue alcanzada. Posteriormente la biomasa incorporada fue calculada gravimétricamente, y su composición bioquímica fue determinada por métodos estándar. La mayor cantidad de materia seca se observó para N. incerta en el sustrato de tela y la menor se encontró en el de madera. El mayor número de células asociadas a la biopelícula fue registrado para Navicula sp. en malla plástica (1.24 x 109 cel/m2), mientras que el menor se encontró para Navicula sp. en madera (1.43 x 108 cels/m2). Diferencias significativas en cuanto a materia orgánica se encontraron entre los sustratos y las especies, con valores más altos para N. incerta en tela (3.22 g/m2) y más bajos para Navicula sp. en madera (0.02 ± 0.05 g/m2). Los mejores perfiles bioquímicos para las biopelículas correspondieron a las formadas por N. incerta sobre malla plástica y Navicula sp. sobre tela. La red de plástico se consideró el mejor sustrato debido a la estabilidad de la biopelícula y la facilidad para cosechar la biomasa.

Antibacterial pigment production by Serratia marcescens using different casein types obtained from milk / Producción de un pigmento antibacteriano con Serratia marcescens usando diferentes tipos de caseína obtenida de leche

ABSTRACT Prodigiosin, a pigment produced by Serratia marcescens inhibits the growth of different microorganisms and the proliferation of some human cancer cell lines. Prodigiosin is usually produced by fermentations of substrates such as starch and proteins, and pigment yield depends on the concentration of the carbon source, stirring speed of cultures, temperature and time of incubation, nitrogen sources, and pH of medium. In the present study, pigment production was assessed using two types of casein as substrate; pigment yield was greater when casein precipitated with vinegar was used as substrate than when high purity casein was. The maximum prodigiosin production was achieved with 10 g/L casein at pH 8.0. Additionally, supplementation of culture media with glucose was found to considerably decrease prodigiosin production and growth inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, which is directly related to pigment yield. Production in stirred-tank bioreactor at 0.75 vvm aeration was higher than that at 0.5 and 1.0 vvm. Substrate type, concentration and pH affected pigment production in Erlenmeyer flasks, whereas aeration rate influenced pigment production in a stirred-tank bioreactor.

RESUMEN La prodigiosina es un pigmento producido por Serratia marcescens que inhibe el crecimiento de diferentes microorganismos y la proliferación de algunas líneas celulares de cáncer humano. La prodigiosina generalmente se produce a través de fermentaciones con sustratos como almidón y proteínas y su producción depende de la concentración de la fuente de carbono, la velocidad de agitación en los cultivos, la temperatura y el tiempo de incubación, las fuentes de nitrógeno y el pH del medio. En este trabajo se evaluó la formación de pigmento usando dos tipos de caseína como sustrato; la producción de pigmento fue mayor cuando se utilizó caseína precipitada con vinagre que cuando se utilizó caseína de alta pureza. La máxima concentración de prodigiosina se logró con 10 g/L de caseína a un pH de 8.0. Se encontró además que suplementar los medios de cultivo con glucosa disminuye considerablemente la producción de prodigiosina y la inhibición de Staphylococcus aureus, la cual está relacionada directamente con la producción de pigmento. La producción en biorreactor de tanque agitado con una aireación de 0.75 vvm fue mayor que con 0.5 y 1.0 vvm. El tipo de sustrato, la concentración y el pH afectaron la producción de pigmento en Erlenmeyer mientras que la velocidad de aireación influyó sobre la producción de pigmento en biorreactor de tanque agitado.

Recent progress and challenges in screening and characterization of UGT1A1 inhibitors

Uridine-diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) is an important conjugative enzyme in mammals that is responsible for the conjugation and detoxification of both endogenous and xenobiotic compounds. Strong inhibition of UGT1A1 may trigger adverse drug/herb-drug interactions, or result in metabolic disorders of endobiotic metabolism. Therefore, both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have recommended assaying the inhibitory potential of drugs under development on the human UGT1A1 prior to approval. This review focuses on the significance, progress and challenges in discovery and characterization of UGT1A1 inhibitors. Recent advances in the development of UGT1A1 probes and their application for screening UGT1A1 inhibitors are summarized and discussed in this review for the first time. Furthermore, a long list of UGT1A1 inhibitors, including information on their inhibition potency, inhibition mode, and affinity, has been prepared and analyzed. Challenges and future directions in this field are highlighted in the final section. The information and knowledge that are presented in this review provide guidance for rational use of drugs/herbs in order to avoid the occurrence of adverse effects UGT1A1 inhibition, as well as presenting methods for rapid screening and characterization of UGT1A1 inhibitors and for facilitating investigations on UGT1A1-ligand interactions.

Germinación y crecimiento inicial de Hymenaea oblongifolia Huber en el municipio de Istmina, Chocó, Colombia / Germination and initial growth of Hymenaea Oblongifolia Huber in the municipality of Istmina, Chocó, Colombia / Germinação e crescimento inicial de Hymenaea oblongifolia Huber no município de Istmina, Chocó, Colômbia

RESUMEN La tala selectiva de los bosques ha ocasionado que las densidades de Hymenaea oblongifolia Huber se hallan disminuido significativamente en el departamento del Chocó. Por lo que se hace necesario avanzar en estudios que aporten a su manejo. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar la germinación, el crecimiento inicial y la supervivencia de esta especie empleando semillas silvestres. En cada uno de los ambientes: libre exposición solar LS y bajo sombra BS, se utilizó un diseño completamente aleatorizado, con arreglo factorial, conformado por 12 tratamientos y tres repeticiones de cuatro semillas cada una. Se emplearon dos combinaciones de sustratos orgánicos en presencia de un testigo (Arena aluvial). Para las variables germinación y altura no se detectaron diferencias estadísticas significativas; mientras que para diámetro si se presentaron diferencias. Los valores de germinación fueron mayores en LS (67,4%) que BS (65,3%), presentándose la misma tendencia para la supervivencia (SL= 82% y BS=81,2). Por lo contrario, para diámetro y altura el mejor comportamiento de las plántulas se presentó BS con valores de 0,38 cm y 17,94 cm respectivamente. Se recomienda germinar las semillas de H, oblongifolia a libre exposición solar y pasar las plántulas a sombra para su crecimiento inicial en vivero.

ABSTRACT Selective logging of forests has caused the densities of Hymenaea oblongifolia Huber to be significantly reduced in the Choco department. Therefore it is necessary to advance in studies that contribute to their management. The objective of this research was to evaluate the germination, the initial growth and the survival of this species using unimproved botanical seeds. In each one of the environments: free exposure solar LS and under shade BS, a completely randomized design was used, with factorial arrangement, formed by 12 treatments and three repetitions of four seeds each. Two combinations of organic substrates were used in the presence of a control (alluvial sand). For the variables germination and height no significant statistical differences were detected; While for diameter if differences were presented. The germination values were higher in LS (67.4%) than BS (65.3%), presenting the same trend for survival (SL = 82% and BS = 81,2). On the contrary, for diameter and height the best behavior of the seedlings was presented BS with values of 0.38 cm and 17.94 cm respectively. It is recommended to germinate the seeds of H, Oblongifolia to free solar exposure and pass the seedlings to shade for their initial growth in the nursery

RESUMO A derrubada seletiva das florestas tem causado que as densidades de Hymenaea oblongifolia Huber diminuam significativamente no departamento de Chocó. Para o que é necessário avançar em estudos que contribuam para a sua gestão. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a germinação, o crescimento inicial e a sobrevivência desta espécie utilizando sementes silvestres. Em cada um dos ambientes: exposição solar livre LS e sob sombra BS, foi utilizado delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com arranjo fatorial, composto por 12 tratamentos e três repetições de quatro sementes cada. Duas combinações de substratos orgânicos foram utilizadas na presença de um controle (areia aluvial). Para as variáveis de germinação e altura, não foram detectadas diferenças estatísticas significativas; enquanto que para o diâmetro se houvesse diferenças. Os valores de germinação foram maiores no LS (67,4%) do que no BS (65,3%), com a mesma tendência de sobrevivência (SL = 82% e BS = 81,2). Por outro lado, para melhor diâmetro e altura, o melhor comportamento das plântulas foi apresentado BS com valores de 0,38 cm e 17,94 cm, respectivamente. Recomenda-se a germinar as sementes de H, oblongifolia para libertar a exposição solar e passar as mudas à sombra para o seu crescimento inicial no viveiro.