Ferulic acid as major antioxidant phenolic compound of the Tetragonisca angustula honey collected in Vera Cruz - Itaparica Island, Bahia, Brazil / Ácido ferúlico como principal composto fenólico antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula coletado em Vera Cruz - Ilha de Itaparica, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH● assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS●+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH● e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS●+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Ferulic acid as major antioxidant phenolic compound of the Tetragonisca angustula honey collected in Vera Cruz - Itaparica Island, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Copaiba oil and Neem extract can be a potential alternative for the behavioral control of Sitophilus zeamais

Abstract Insects' ethology is an important factor when it is desired to carry out pest management. This knowledge makes it possible to manipulate behavioral activities, repel, or attract insects according to needs and interests. The maize weevil Sitophilus zeamais (Mots., 1855) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), one of the main stored grain pests, has been the target of studies of behavioral changes studies through natural substances due to its resistance to different insecticidal classes. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of sublethal concentrations of neem extract and copaiba oil on the locomotor behavior of S. zeamais. The behavioral characteristic considered were walking activity, the frequency of contact of insects with the treated grain mass, and the time spent for this behavior. The walking activity of the S. zeamais increased with exposure to Neem extract and Copaiba oil. In general, the Neem extract and Copaiba oil-induced more contact with grain mass than the control, suggesting an attractive effect on the insect, however more significant for the Neem oil. The insect's behavior was altered, presenting a specific path due to Copaiba oil and Neem extract stimuli. These results indicate that Copaiba oil and Neem extract can be a potential alternative for controlling S. zeamais on stored products since changes in this pests' behavior can reduce qualitative and quantitative grain damage. Thus, the development of products based on Copaiba oil and Neem extract may be helpful for storage pest management.

Resumo A etologia dos insetos é um fator importante quando se deseja relizar manejo de pragas. Através deste conhecimento, é possível manipular atividades comportamentais, repelir, ou atrair os insetos de acordo com as necessidades e interesses. O gorgulho do milho Sitophilus zeamais (Mots., 1855) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), uma das principais pragas de grãos armazenados tem sido alvo de estudos de alterações comportamentais através de substâncias naturais devido à sua resistência a diferentes classes de insecticidas. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de concentrações subletais de extrato de neem e do óleo de copaíba sobre o comportamento de movimentação de S. zeamais. As características comportamentais consideradas foram: a atividade de caminhamento, a frequência do contato dos insetos com a massa de grãos tratada, e o tempo gasto para realização destes comportamentos. A atividade de caminhamento do S. zeamais aumentou quando os insetos foram expostos ao extrato de Neem e ao óleo de copaíba. Em geral, o extrato de Neem e o óleo de Copaíba induziram mais contato com a massa de grãos do que o controle, sugerindo um efeito atrativo sobre o inseto, contudo este efeito foi mais significativo para o óleo de Neem. O comportamento do inseto foi alterado, apresentando um caminhamento específico devido aos estímulos do óleo de copaíba e do extrato de Neem. Estes resultados indicam que o óleo de copaíba e o extrato de Neem podem ser alternativas potenciais para o controle do S. zeamais em produtos armazenados, uma vez que alterações no comportamento desta praga podem reduzir os danos qualitativos e quantitativos nos grãos. Assim, o desenvolvimento de produtos baseados no óleo de copaíba e no extrato de Neem pode ser útil para o manejo de pragas de armazenamento.

Medico-Ethon-Botanical Study of Indigenous and Migrated Medicinal Plants Diversity at Kothi Village in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh in India: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Ayurveda and medicinal plants of folklore are the primary sources of health care in rural areas of India. Medicinal plants are the basis of Ayurveda drugs. Kothi village at an elevation of around 1,100m from the sea level is a hamlet in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh and it has a good diversity of medicinal plants. The medicinal plants' diversity in this village is not studied to date. This cross-sectional survey study (observational study of descriptive and analytical type) was conducted to discover the diversity of medicinal plants in the Kothi village. The medicinal plant diversity at RGGPGAC&H territory was the sample chosen for this study. The total diversity of medicinal plants in the Kothi village was considered as the population of the study. Questionnaire based interviews and discussions with local villagers and sellers were used as a method for medicinal plants sample collection from the sample area. The sample medicinal plants were then verified by the faculty of PGDD at RGGPGAC&H. After verification, samples were cross-verified with authoritative publications by the government of Himachal Pradesh and India. A total of 151 different indigenous cum migrated medicinal plant diversity belonging to 69 families is found occurring in the Kothi village.

"Instrução sobre a escolha, preparação e remessa das sementes e cebolas das plantas, que se mandarem vir de África e do Brasil" / "Instruction on the selection, preparation and shipment of seeds and bulbs of plants, which are ordered to be brought from Africa and Brazil"

Resumo Manuscrito inédito, datado de 1802, que trata dos métodos a utilizar na recolha e remessa de sementes, tubérculos e bulbos das colônias da África e do Brasil para o Complexo de História Natural da Ajuda, em Portugal.

Abstract Unpublished manuscript, dated 1802, dealing with methods to be used in collecting and shipping seeds, tubers and bulbs from colonies in Africa and Brazil to the Natural History Complex of Ajuda, in Portugal.

Deciphering suppressive effects of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule on COVID-19 and synergistic effects of its major botanical drug pairs / 中国天然药物

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in excess deaths worldwide. Conventional antiviral medicines have been used to relieve the symptoms, with limited therapeutic effect. In contrast, Lianhua Qingwen Capsule is reported to exert remarkable anti-COVID-19 effect. The current review aims to: 1) uncover the main pharmacological actions of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule for managing COVID-19; 2) verify the bioactive ingredients and pharmacological actions of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule by network analysis; 3) investigate the compatibility effect of major botanical drug pairs in Lianhua Qingwen Capsule; and 4) clarify the clinical evidence and safety of the combined therapy of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule and conventional drugs. Numerous bioactive ingredients in Lianhu Qingwen, such as quercetin, naringenin, β-sitosterol, luteolin, and stigmasterol, were identified to target host cytokines, and to regulate the immune defence in response to COVID-19. Genes including androgen receptor (AR), myeloperoxidase (MPO), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), insulin (INS), and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) were found to be significantly involved in the pharmacological actions of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule against COVID-19. Four botanical drug pairs in Lianhua Qingwen Capsule were shown to have synergistic effect for the treatment of COVID-19. Clinical studies demonstrated the medicinal effect of the combined use of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule and conventional drugs against COVID-19. In conclusion, the four main pharmacological mechanisms of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule for managing COVID-19 are revealed. Therapeutic effect has been noted against COVID-19 in Lianhua Qingwen Capsule.

A Review on the Pharmacological Importance of PDE5 and Its Inhibition to Manage Biomedical Conditions

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) is a cyclic GMP (cGMP) specific protein. It hydrolyzes the phosphodiesterase linkage and catalyzes the conversion of cGMP to 5’ GMP, which controls different physiological activities of the body. PDE5 is associated with biomedical conditions like neurological disorders, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cardiomyopathy, cancer, erectile dysfunction, and lower urinary tract syndrome. Inhibition of PDE5 has now been proven pharmaceutically effective in a variety of therapeutic conditions. Avanafil, tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil are the most commonly used PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5i) today which are often used for the management of erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract syndromes, malignancy, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, these synthetic PDE5i come with a slew of negative effects. Some of the most common side effects include mild headaches, flushing, dyspepsia, altered color vision, back discomfort, priapism, melanoma, hypotension and dizziness, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), and hearing loss. In light of the potential negative effects of this class of medications, there is a lot of room for new, selective PDE5 inhibitors to be discovered. We have found 25 plant botanical compounds effectively inhibiting PDE5 which might be useful in treating a variety of disorders with minimal or no adverse effects.

Plantas empleadas para tratar afecciones respiratorias introducidas por inmigrantes bolivianos y chinos en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, Argentina / Plants used to treat respiratory diseases introduced by Bolivian and Chinese immigrants in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Argentina

This contribution includes the registry of 28 species of medicinal plants and their derived products used to treat respiratory diseases in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Argentina, introduced by Bolivian and Chinese immigrants. Information on these species (their assigned local uses) was obtained from interviews with local informants and from other sources, such as labels, brochures and catalogs, print and electronic. A bibliographic review was carried out on the biological activity and effects studied in order to evaluate its correspondence with the assigned local uses. The degree of visibility of the treated species was analyzed, according to their circulation in the restricted commercial circuits (Chinese and Bolivian immigrants) and the general commercial circuit. Of the total, 17 species belong to the segment of Chinese immigrants, and the remaining 11 to the Bolivian segment. The most frequently reported respiratory conditions are: "asthma", "cough", "bronchitis", "respiratory tract infections", "lung ailments". The immigrant segments play a fundamental role in the conservation of biocultural diversity in the study area.

Esta contribución incluye el registro de 28 especies de plantas medicinales y sus productos derivados empleados para tratar afecciones respiratorias en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, Argentina, introducidas por inmigrantes bolivianos y chinos. La información sobre esas especies (sus usos locales asignados) se obtuvo de entrevistas realizadas a informantes locales y de otras fuentes, como la de etiquetas, prospectos y catálogos, impresos y electrónicos. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sobre la actividad biológica y efectos estudiados a fin de evaluar su correspondencia con los usos locales asignados. Se analizó el grado de visibilidad de las especies tratadas, según su circulación en los circuitos comerciales restringidos (inmigrantes chinos y bolivianos) y el circuito comercial general. Del total, 17 especies pertenecen al segmento de inmigrantes chinos, y los 11 restantes al segmento boliviano. Las afecciones respiratorias más frecuentemente relevadas son: "asma", "tos", "bronquitis", "infecciones en las vías respiratorias", "dolencias pulmonares". Los segmentos de inmigrantes poseen un rol fundamental en la conservación de la diversidad biocultural en el área de estudio.

Pteridofitas: helechos y licófitos de El mundo vegetal de los Andes peruanos en el contexto actual / Pteridophytes: Ferns and lycophytes of El mundo vegetal de los Andes peruanos in the current context

Resumen Los helechos y licófitos mencionados en El mundo Vegetal de los Andes peruanos de Weberbauer brindan una breve información de su riqueza y sustento a las observaciones ambientales para cada categoría de su esquema fitogeográfico del Perú. Este estudio actualiza tanto el concepto y características de los pteridofitos mencionados en el capítulo Unidades Sistemáticas, como la nomenclatura de los 126 nombres de los taxones mencionados en la obra. Además, se ofrece una breve historia del estudio del grupo en el Perú, para proveer el contexto de la inclusión de estas plantas por Weberbauer. Y se mencionan las colecciones que Weberbauer realizara del grupo y, en particular, las citadas como ejemplos. Se ofrece un perfil de las tareas por realizar para completar la labor biogeográfica iniciada por Weberbauer.

Abstract Ferns and lycophytes were mentioned by Weberbauer in his El mundo Vegetal de los Andes peruanos to provide a hint of the richness of the group and to support his natural history observations for each category of his phytogeographic description of Peru. This contribution updates concepts and features of these plants as discussed in the chapter on "Systematic Units" and updates the 126 names of taxa cited in his book. To this end, we provide a brief history of the development of Peru's pteridoflora studies in the context of Weberbauer's work. We also document Weberbauer's pteridophyte collections linked to the verification of the taxa of his examples. A framework for future research is provided to complete the biogeographic endeavor that begun with his work and highlights the need to relocate his plant collections as witnesses of his legacy.

Extracts and purified substances of Cabralea canjerana inhibit hatching and extracts of Schinus terebinthifolius kill juveniles of meloidogyne incognita

Nematicidal substances have been identified from plants and are potentially useful for the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Cabralea canjerana, (Meliaceae) and Schinus terebinthifolius (Anacardiaceae) produce bioactive compounds during their secondary metabolism and little is known about the effect of such substances on plant-parasitic nematodes. In the present study, we assessed the effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of C. canjerana and S. terebinthifolius at 1% (m:v) and purified substances from C. canjerana (gedunin, ocotillone, cabraleadiol, a mixture of ocotillone + cabraleadiol and a mixture of shoreic acid + eichlerianic acid) on hatching and mortality of Meloidogyne incognita juveniles. Aqueous extracts of C. canjerana fruits and seeds reduced hatching by 70.3 to 95.7%. Aqueous extracts of S. terebinthifolius fruits killed 42.8 to 77.1% of juveniles. The purified substances of C. canjerana inhibited the hatching of M. incognita from 57 to 90% and did not increase the mortality of juveniles. Therefore, C. canjerana extracts and its purified substances reduce M. incognita hatching and aqueous extracts of S. terebinthifolius kill J2 of this nematode.

New sources of botanical acaricides from species of Croton with potential use in the integrated management of Tetranychus urticae / Nuevas fuentes de acaricidas botánicos de especies de Croton con uso potencial en el manejo integrado de Tetranychus urticae

Essential oils from the leaves and stems of Croton adenocalyx, C. grewioides, C. heliotropiifoliusand C. blanchetianus obtained through hydrodistillation were analyzed by GC-MS. We then investigated the lethal and sublethal effects of the Croton oils and 15 major constituents against Tetranychus urticae. ß-Caryophyllene was the major component in the leaf and stem oils from C. heliotropiifolius and C. adenocalyx. Spathulenol and (E)-anethole were the major constituents identified in the leaf and stem oils of C. blanchetianus and C. grewioides, respectively. The oil with the greatest lethal and sublethal effects was those from C. adenocalyx. Among the constituents ß-caryophyllene and spatulenol were the most toxic to the mite, where as eugenol and methyl eugenol were the most repellent. The toxicity and repellency of the Croton oils, particularly the oils from C. adenocalyx, demonstrate that these oils constitute a promising alternative to synthetic acaricides for use in the control of T. urticae.

Los aceites esenciales de las hojas y tallos de Croton adenocalyx, C. growioides, C. heliotropiifolius y C. blanchetianus obtenidos mediante hidrodestilación fueron analizados a través de GC-MS. Se investigaron los efectos letales y subletales de los aceites de Croton y 15 componentes principales contra Tetranychus urticae. El ß-cariofileno fue el componente principal en los aceites de hojas y tallos de C. heliotropiifolius y C. adenocalyx. El espatulenol y el (E)-anetol fueron los principales componentes identificados en los aceites de hojas y tallos de C. blanchetianus y C. growioides, respectivamente. El aceite con los mayores efectos letales y subletales fue el de C. adenocalyx. Entre los componentes, el ß-cariofileno y el espatulenol fueron los más tóxicos para el ácaro, mientras que el eugenol y el metil eugenol fueron los más repelentes. La toxicidad y la repelencia de los aceites de Croton, particularmente los aceites de C. adenocalyx, demuestran que estos aceites constituyen una alternativa prometedora respecto a los acaricidas sintéticos para uso en el control de T. urticae.

BIOACTIVITY OF EXTRACTS FROM SOLANACEAE AGAINST Zabrotes subfasciatus / Bioactividad de extractos de Solanaceae contra Zabrotes subfasciatus

ABSTRACT The botanical family Solanaceae has many species producing compounds with insecticidal properties, e.g. nicotine and capsaicin, which are used for pest management in agriculture. This fact provides perspectives to identify insecticidal compounds in Brazilian native species of Solanaceae. In this study, we performed a screening with 25 ethanolic extracts from 17 Solanaceae species in order to evaluate their bioactivity against the Mexican bean weevil, Zabrotes subfasciatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae). The bioactivity of Solanaceae ethanolic extracts (2,500 mg kg-1) was tested with residual contact bioassays. Adults of Z. subfasciatus were exposed to treated bean grains, and adult mortality, oviposition, F1 progeny and damages on grains were quantified. Most of the ethanolic extracts from Solanaceae reduced the number of eggs per sample, the egg-adult viability, the F1 progeny and the damages on bean grains promoted by Z. subfasciatus, but none of them interfered on its sex ratio. Ethanolic extract from leaves of Solanum lycocarpum A. St.-Hil promoted the most promissory effects on Z. subfasciatus. This ethanolic extracts can be a suitable alternative to control Z. subfasciatus in stored beans, mainly for small farmers and organic farmers.

RESUMEN La familia botánica Solanaceae tiene muchas especies que producen compuestos con propiedades insecticidas, e.g. nicotina y capsaicina, que se utilizan para el control de plagas en la agricultura. Este hecho proporciona perspectivas promisorias para identificar compuestos insecticidas en especies nativas brasileñas de Solanaceae. En el presente estudio se llevó a cabo un cribado con 25 extractos etanólicos de 17 especies de Solanaceae con el propósito de evaluar su bioactividad sobre el gorgojo pinto del frijol, Zabrotes subfasciatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae). La bioactividad de los extractos etanólicos se evaluó por experimentos de contacto residual. Los adultos de Z. subfasciatus se expusieron a los frijoles tratados con los extractos y se midió la mortalidad de los adultos, la ovoposición, la progenie F1 y el daño en los granos. La mayoría de los extractos etanólicos redujeron el número de huevos, la viabilidad de los huevos, la progenie y el daño en los granos, pero ninguno de ellos interfirió en la proporción sexual de los insectos. El extracto etanólico de las hojas de Solanum lycocarpum A. St.-Hil promovió los efectos más prometedores sobre Z. subfasciatus. Este extracto puede ayudar a controlar a Z. subfasciatus en frijoles almacenados, principalmente a los pequeños agricultores y a los agricultores orgánicos.

Botanical drug clinical trial: Common issues and future options

In order to understand this disparity between human use and drugs approved by regulatory agencies, we analyzed botanical drug clinical trials registered at ClinicalTrial.gov to detect trends in current trials and guide future trials. A total of 195 botanical drug clinical trials were registered from 2016 to 2019, of which 81 are phase II or phase II/III. 95% of all phase II and II/III studies were designed with 100 or less participants per arm, indicating a more observational nature due to the limited power to detect differences in outcomes between treatment and control groups. Due to the limited number of participants, efficacy outcome from results may be highly subjective. 14% of the total trials were phase I studies. For botanical drugs with well-documented or extensive history of human use, phase I may not provide significant additional information, and may, therefore, not be necessary. For the trial design, we suggest added-on studies when botanical drugs are used as part of a combination treatment. Additionally, we believe standardized data collection methods and criteria are critical to utilizing the vast collection of human experience as quality evidence to support regulatory approval.

Insecticidal Activity of Lavandula dentata L. Essential Oil on Anticarsia gemmatalis (Hübner, 1818)

Abstract Anticarsia gemmatalis, commonly known as soybean caterpillar, causes important economic losses in soybean crops. Synthetic pesticides are the standard practice to control this insect. However, the indiscriminate use of these substances has increased the resistance of this pest. Thus, it is necessary to search for different control alternatives that are also more environmentally friendly. The objective of this work was to evaluate the chemical composition of Lavandula dentata L. essential oil (EO) and its activity on A. gemmatalis. The major compounds of essential oil were 1,8-cineole (31.5 wt.%), camphor (16.6 wt.%), and fenchone (15.9 wt.%). Bioassays were performed with third-instar caterpillars. EO concentrations of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, and 1.0% v/v were diluted in Tween-80® 0.5% v/v and incorporated into the artificial diet given to caterpillars. Water, Tween-80® 0.5% v/v, and novaluron 0.075% w/v were added as negative and positive controls. For the aversion tests, soybean leaf discs were immersed in solutions with 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0% v/v of EO, plus a negative control (water), and offered to caterpillars. In the bioassay, 100% mortality was observed from the concentration 0.6% v/v of the essential oil of L. dentata in 24 h; without statistical difference from 0.4 and 0.5% v/v. There was no important change in mortality between 24 and 72 h. In the aversion test, all EO treatments caused deterrence of caterpillars when compared to control, but without difference between EO concentrations. It was observed that L. dentata EO can be used as an alternative in the control of A. gemmatalis.

Does the residual effect of n-fertilization applied on corn phase maintain forage production of the following pasture phase in an integrated crop-livestock system? / O efeito residual da adubação nitrogenada aplicada na fase de milho mantém a produção de forragem da fase pastagem em sucessão em um sistema de integração lavoura-pecuária?

Nutrient cycling represents an important nutrient source in the Integrated Crop-Livestock Systems (ICLS). In general, only the crop phase of the ICLS is fertilized, however little is known about this residual effect of nitrogen fertilization from summer crop to succeeding winter pasture. This research aimed to evaluate the forage growth dynamic and botanical composition of a mixed pasture of black oat (Avena strigosa Schreb) and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) affected by two canopy height managements (high and low) and nitrogen fertilization applied to either the summer crop (corn) or winter pasture phase of an ICLS. The experiment was established in 2012 in southern Brazil. Black oat and ryegrass were growing during winter season and corn (Zea mays L.) during summer season, being this paper related to the 2014 pasture period. Treatments were composed by two canopy heights (25 and 10 cm) and two N-Fertilization Times (N-Pasture or N-Corn) of 200 kg of N ha-1. Canopy height was regulated by beef steers grazing through continuous stocking with a variable stocking rate. Forage mass was lower in the 10 cm canopy height on average, however this forage mass was composed by greater proportion of ryegrass leaves and lower proportion of dead material in relation to the treatment with 25 cm canopy height. The N-fertilization applied directly on pasture phase (N-Pasture) increased forage mass, tiller population density, participation of ryegrass and ryegrass leaf proportion in the forage mass. Furthermore, when pasture was fertilized with N, the forage accumulation rate increased about 69%, highlighting that the corn N-fertilization did not present significant effect on forage productivity. The residual effect of corn N-fertilization was not enough to maintain high forage accumulation. Thus, the pasture N-fertilization is fundamental to keep high-productive crop-livestock system. (AU)

A ciclagem de nutrientes representa uma importante fonte de nutrientes em sistemas de Integração Lavoura-Pecuária (ILP). Em geral, apenas a fase de lavoura é fertilizada, entretanto pouco se sabe sobre esse efeito residual da adubação nitrogenada realizada na lavoura de verão para as pastagens de inverno em sucessão. Esse trabalho objetivou avaliar a dinâmica de acúmulo de forragem e a composição botânica de uma pastagem mista de aveia preta (Avena strigosa Schreb) e azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) manejada com duas alturas do pasto (alta e baixa) e com adubação nitrogenada realizada na cultura de grãos (milho) ou na fase pastagem de um sistema ILP. O experimento foi estabelecido em 2012 no sul do Brasil. Aveia preta e azevém eram cultivados durante o inverno e milho para grãos (Zea mays L.) era cultivado durante o verão, sendo esse trabalho relacionado ao período de pastagem em 2014. Os tratamentos foram compostos por duas alturas de manejo do pasto (25 e 10 cm) e duas épocas de adubação nitrogenada no sistema ILP (N-Pastagem ou N-Milho), na dose de 200 kg de N ha-1. A altura do pasto foi regulada por meio de pastejo com lotação contínua e taxa de lotação variável de novilhos de corte. Em média, a massa de forragem foi menor na altura do pasto de 10 cm, entretanto essa massa de forragem foi composta por uma maior proporção de folhas de azevém e menor proporção de material morto em relação ao tratamento com 25 cm. A adubação nitrogenada realizada diretamente na fase pastagem (N-Pastagem) aumentou a massa de forragem, a densidade populacional de perfilhos, a participação de azevém e a porcentagem de folhas de azevém na massa de forragem. Além disso, a adubação nitrogenada na fase pastagem aumentou a taxa de acúmulo de forragem em 69%, evidenciando que não há efeito significativo da adubação feita na lavoura de milho sobre a produtividade de forragem. O efeito residual da adubação nitrogenada na fase lavoura (milho) não foi suficiente para manter o alto acúmulo de forragem. Dessa forma, a adubação nitrogenada da fase pastagem em sistema ILP é fundamental para manter esses sistemas de produção agrícola e pecuária altamente produtivos. (AU)

Efecto tóxico de los extractos de semillas de Annona muricata potenciados con dimetilsulfóxido sobre larvas IV y pupas de Aedes aegypti / Toxic effect of Annona muricata seed extracts potentiated with dimethyl sulfoxide on IV larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue demostrar que los principios activos de las semillas de Annona muricata combinados con el extracto etanólico y dimetilsulfóxido (EE-DMSO), incrementan la mortalidad de larvas IV y pupas de Aedes aegypti con relación a extractos acuosos (EA) y extractos etanólicos (EE). Las bioactividades se calcularon por comparación de los porcentajes de mortalidad a las 6, 12, 24 y 48 horas in vitro y campo simulado. Los resultados indicaron mortalidad progresiva dependiente de las concentraciones y tiempos de exposición en larvas y reacción knock-down en pupas. In vitro a 5 mg.L-1, EA y EE ejercieron 100% de mortalidad larvaria en 24 horas de exposición (CL50=46.16 y 19.28 mg.L-1 respectivamente), en contraste con EE-DMSO, que inició sobre 62% con 0.5 mg.L-1 a las 6 horas (CL50=20.33 mg.L-1). La acción pupicida de EA y EE reveló 100% de mortalidad desde 24 horas en todas las concentraciones, a diferencia de EE-DMSO que se alcanzó entre 6 y 12 horas. En campo simulado, EA y EE ejercieron 100% de mortalidad a las 24 horas en larvas (16.91 y 21.21 mg.L-1 ), mientras que en pupas (20.44 y 23.03 mg.L-1) ocurrió a las 12 horas, entretanto, la actividad pupicida de EE-DMSO fue 100% en 6 horas. Los efectos comparativos in vitro y campo simulado denotaron patrones similares de respuestas larvicida y pupicida, pero con mayor sensibilidad en pupas. Los principios activos de las semillas de A. muricata combinados con EE-DMSO potencian la respuesta mortal de larvas y pupas de A. aegypti in vitro y campo simulado.

Abstract The objective of this study was to demonstrate that active ingredients of Annona muricata seeds can be enhanced as a result of mixture of both ethanolic extract of A. muricata seeds and Dimethylsulfoxide (EE-DMSO). Percentage mortalities at 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours on fourth instar larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti were calculated in order to compare bioactivities of aqueous (AE), ethanolic extracts (EE) and EE-DMSO under laboratory and simulated field conditions. Results showed larval mortality concentration- and time-dependent, and knock-down responses in pupae. In laboratory, AE and EE exerted 100% larval mortality at 5 mg.L-1 after 24 hours (LC50= 46.16 and 19.28 mg.L-1). Conversely, EE-DMSO showed between 62 - 100% mortality at 0.5 mg.L-1 for over 6 hours (LC50= 20.33 mg.L-1). Pupicidal effects in AE and EE revealed 100% mortality at 24 hours employing all concentrations, except in EE-DMSO which commenced when individuals were exposed between 6 and 12 hours. In simulated field, AE and EE provoked 100% larval mortality at 24 hours (16.91 y 21.21 mg.L-1) while pupal mortality at 12 hours (20.44 y 23.03 mg.L-1). Percentage mortality of pupae was 100% using EE-DMSO even before 6 hours. Comparative toxic effects of laboratory and simulated-field systems have shown to maintain a similar pattern of larval mortality and more sensitive responses in pupae. Accordingly, larval and pupal mortality responses of A. aegypti were enhanced with the use of EE-DMSO and active ingredients of A. muricata seeds under laboratory and simulated field conditions.

Acetylcholinesterase and α-Amylase inhibitors from Mouriri elliptica Martius leaf extract / Inibidores da acetilcolinesterase e α-amilase do extrato da folha de Mouriri elliptica Martius

Population growth has raised food production, and new sources are needed to increase quantity and quality of agricultural products. Carbamates and organophosphates are insecticide classes used worldwide as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors. Plants have a natural resistance to insects, which can be employed in pest control as a new alternative to reduce the use of chemicals. An alternative may be the use of α-amylase inhibitors, which are digestive enzymes that impair pest species growth and development. Another would be acetylcholinesterase inhibitors since they damage the normal functioning of the central and peripheral nervous system, by releasing high concentrations of acetylcholine in cholinergic synapses. This substance accumulation increases stimulations that lead to behavioral changes, asphyxia, hyperactivity, and death. Botanical agrochemicals are believed to have advantages over synthetic ones, as they are rapidly degraded in the environment. In this scenario, plants have played an important role in pest control as sources of interest for the synthesis of new molecules for agricultural use. The present study evaluated acetylcholinesterase and α-amylase inhibition by microplate method, from leaf extracts of Mouriri elliptica Martius with different polarities.

O crescimento populacional tem aumentado a quantidade de produção alimentícia, sendo necessárias novas fontes para o aumento da quantidade e qualidade dos produtos agrícolas. Os carbamatos e organofosforados são classes de inseticidas utilizadas em todo o mundo, são inibidores da acetilcolinesterase (AChE). Os vegetais possuem uma resistência natural aos insetos, e esse método de resistência pode ser utilizado no controle das pragas como uma nova alternativa para redução do uso de inseticidas químicos, tais como os inibidores da α-amilase, enzima digestiva, a qual sua inibição prejudica o crescimento e desenvolvimento de espécies de pragas. E os inibidores da acetilcolinesterase que danificam o funcionamento normal do Sistema Nervoso Central e Periférico, através de elevadas concentrações da acetilcolina que ficam depositadas nas sinapses colinérgicas. Este acúmulo de ACh provoca uma grande estimulação que leva á alterações comportamentais, asfixia, hiperatividade e a morte. Estudos já realizados mostraram que os agrotóxicos botânicos têm vantagens sobre os sintéticos, sendo degradados rapidamente no meio ambiente. Neste cenário os vegetais têm desempenhado um importante papel no controle de pragas, através da síntese de novas moléculas para uso na agricultura. O presente trabalho avaliou a inibição das enzimas acetilcolinesterase e α-amilase através do método da microplaca a partir dos extratos das folhas de Mouriri elliptica Martius em diferentes polaridades.

Toxicity of the essential oil of basil cultivars and hybrids and its repellent effect on stored grain pests / Toxicidade do óleo essencial de cultivares e híbridos de manjericão e seu efeito repelente sobre pragas de grãos armazenados

Essential oils have emerged as an alternative to synthetic insecticides in the control of stored grain pests. The toxicity and repellency of the essential oils of four basil cultivars and three basil hybrids and the monoterpenes linalool, citral, and (E)-methyl cinnamate were evaluated in the stored grain pests Callosobruchus maculatus and Sitophillus zeamais. The essential oils of the cultivar Genovese and the hybrid 'Genovese' x 'Maria Bonita' were more toxic to C. maculatus. Conversely, the essential oils of the cultivar Sweet Dani and the hybrid 'Cinnamom' x 'Maria Bonita' were more toxic to S. zeamais. Among the monoterpenes, (E)-methyl cinnamate was the most toxic to both pests, taking 0.14 and 0.34 µ L.mL-1 to kill 50% of the C. maculatus and S. zeamais populations, respectively. All essential oils from cultivars, hybrids, and monoterpenes were repellent to S. zeamais, except for (E)-methyl cinnamate. For C. maculatus, this effect was lower, being citral the most repellent compound. Results demonstrate the insecticidal potential of the essential oil of O. basilicum and its monoterpenes in the control of stored grain pests.

Os óleos essenciais surgem como alternativa aos inseticidas sintéticos no controle das pragas de grãos armazenados. A toxicidade e a repelência dos óleos essenciais de quatro cultivares e três híbridos de manjericão e dos monoterpenos linalol, citral e (E)-cinamato de metila foram avaliadas nas pragas de grãos armazenados Callosobruchus maculatus e Sitophillus zeamais. Os óleos essenciais da cultivar Genovese e do híbrido 'Genovese' x 'Maria Bonita' foram mais tóxicos para C. maculatus. Já para S. zeamais, os óleos essenciais das cultivar Sweet Dani e do híbrido 'Cinnamom' x 'Maria Bonita' apresentaram maior toxicidade. Dentre os monoterpenos, o (E)-cinamato de metila foi o mais tóxico para ambas as pragas. Foram necessários 0,14 e 0,34 µ L.mL-1 para matar 50% da população de C. maculatus e S. zeamais. Todos os óleos essenciais das cultivares, dos híbridos e dos monoterpenos foram repelentes a S. zeamais, com exceção do (E)-cinamato de metila. Já para C. maculatus, este efeito foi reduzido, sendo o citral o composto mais repelente. Nos resultados demonstram o potencial inseticida dos óleos essenciais de O. basilicum e seus monoterpenos para o controle de pragas de grãos armazenados.

Frutas frescas y productos derivados comercializados en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, Argentina / Fresh fruits and derived products commercialized in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Argentina

This contribution includes the registration of 70 fresh fruit species and their derivative products marketed in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Data on fruits and derived products were obtained from ethnobotanical fieldwork, where usual qualitative ethnobotanical methodologies were used: participant observation, free listings, open and semi-structured interviews. A bibliographic review was made on the biological activity and effects studied in order to evaluate their correspondence with the assigned local uses. The situation of invisibility/visibility of the treated species was analyzed, according to their circulation in the restricted commercial circuits (Chinese and Bolivian immigrants) and the general commercial circuit. Of the total of 70 recorded species, 62 are visible (89%) and 8 invisible (11%). These last, only found in the Barrio Chino. The registration of marketed fruits, together with their associated knowledge, represents a contribution to the study of local biocultural diversity.

Esta contribución incluye el registro de 70 especies de frutas frescas y sus productos derivados comercializadasen el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Los datos sobre las frutas y productos derivados se obtuvieron del trabajo de campo etnobotánico, en donde se emplearon metodologías etnobotánicas cualitativas habituales: observación participante, listados libres, entrevistas abiertas y semiestructuradas. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sobre la actividad biológica y efectos estudiados a fin de evaluar su correspondencia con los usos locales asignados. Se analizó la situación de invisibilidad/visibilidad de las especies tratadas, según su circulación en los circuitos comerciales restringidos (inmigrantes chinos y bolivianos) y el circuito comercial general. Del total de 70 especies registradas, 62 son visibles (89%) y 8 invisibles (11%). Estas últimas se encuentran solamente en el Barrio Chino. El registro de las frutas comercializadas, junto a sus saberes asociados representa un aporte al estudio de la diversidad biocultural local.

Botanical Therapeutics for Parkinson's Disease / 中国结合医学杂志

Parkinson's disease (PD) was first formally described by James Parkinson in 1817, but the shaking of limbs was described in the literature of several ancient civilizations, such as ancient Chinese civilization and ancient Indian civilization. Historically, botanical drugs were used as the main source for the treatment of such kind of disorders. In Western countries, plant extracts also occupied an important place in the earlier medications of PD. With the adventure of synthetic drugs, the role of plant-derived drugs in management of PD has been diminished. Nowadays, there is still no cure for PD, dopaminergic (DA) medication is the treatment of choice, which is just designed to ameliorate symptoms of PD, and long-term use of DA medication will result in reduced efficacy and severe adverse reactions. It is necessary to explore new methods for the treatment of PD. Chinese medicine (CM) developed a holistic and unique theoretical system, and botanical drugs are widely used in practice for more than two millennia. Modern pharmacological studies have proved that Chinese herbs have potential therapeutic effects on PD, such as enhancing neurotrophic activity, clearing protein aggregates, regulating neuroinflammation, etc. All the advances provide us with hope for developing CM as a mainstream medication for treating PD.