Chloroplast genome phylogeny and codon preference of Docynia longiunguis / 生物工程学报

Docynia longiunguis is a plant uniquely present in China and is of high edible and medicinal value. The analysis of its chloroplast genome will help clarify the phylogenetic relationship among Docynia and facilitate the development and utilization of D. longiunguis resources. Based on the alignment of chloroplast genome sequences of related species, the phylogeny and codon preference were analyzed. The total length of D. longiunguis chloroplast genome sequence was 158 914 bp (GenBank accession number is MW367027), with an average GC content of 36.7%. The length of the large single-copy (LSC), the small single-copy (SSC), and inverted repeats (IRs) are 87 020 bp, 19 156 bp, and 26 369 bp, respectively. A total of 102 functional genes were annotated, including 72 protein-coding genes, 26 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. The best model for constructing phylogenetic tree was TVM+F+R2. D. longiunguis and Docynia indica were clustered into a single group, while Docynia and Malus were clustered into a single group. Comparison of the chloroplast genome sequences of D. longiunguis and its five related species revealed that trnY (GUA)-psbD, ndhC-trnV (UAC), accD-psaI, psbZ-trnfM (CAU), ndhF-trnL gene regions varied greatly. The nucleic acid diversity analysis showed that there were 11 high variation areas with nucleotide variability > 0.01, all were located in the LSC and SSC regions. Except for D. longiunguis, the trnH genes in other sequences were located at the IRs/LSC junction and did not cross the boundary. Codon preference analysis showed that D. longiunguis chloroplast genome has the largest number of isoleucine (Ile) codons, up to 1 205. D. longiunguis has the closest genetic relationship with Malus baccata, Malus sieboldii, Malus hupehensis and Chaenomeles sinensis. Its chloroplast genome codon prefers to end with A/T. The chloroplast genome of D. longiunguis and other Rosaceae chloroplast genomes showed great differences in gene distribution in four boundary regions, while relatively small differences from the chloroplast genomes of Docynia delavayi and D. indica of the same genus were observed. The genome annotation, phylogenetic analysis and sequence alignment of chloroplast genome of D. longiunguis may facilitate the identification, development and utilization of this species.

Protective effect of total triterpenoids from Chaenomeles speciosa against Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis in mice / 中国中药杂志

This study investigated the protective effect of total triterpenoids from Chaenomeles speciosa against Helicobacter pylori(Hp)-induced gastritis in mice and explored its possible mechanism. The chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG) model mice were randomly divided into four groups of model, total triterpenoids from C. speciosa(50 and 100 mg·kg~(-1)) and triple therapy, with C57 BL/6 J mice without Hp infection taken as the normal group. Mice in the treatment groups were given corresponding drugs once a day for 4 weeks. Then the following indexes were detected: the contents of reactive oxygen species(ROS), monocyte chemotactic protein 1(MCP-1), keratinocyte chemokines(KC), TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, IL-4 and IL-10 in blood and gastric tissue, the activities and contents of LDH, MPO, SOD, GSH-Px, CAT and MDA in gastric tissue and the activities of β-glucuronidase, β-galactosidase, cathepsins B and D in blood, gastric tissue and lysosome. Besides, the mRNA expression levels of Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88), Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, Bax and Bad in gastric tissue were determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Western blot was employed to detect the protein expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-IKKβ, p-IκBα, NOD-like receptor 3(NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein(ASC), pro-caspase-1, caspase-1, thioredoxin-interacting protein(TXNIP), pro-IL-1β, pro-IL-18, Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, Bax, Bad, cytochrome C, apoptotic protease-activating factor-1(Apaf-1), pro-caspase-9, pro-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1(PARP-1), cleaved-PARP-1 and cytosol and nucleus NF-κB p65 in gastric tissue. The results indicated that the total triterpenoids from C. speciosa significantly suppressed Hp proliferation, alleviated the damage to gastric mucosa and improved lymphocyte infiltration and gland atrophy. They were also effective in reducing the activities of β-glucuronidase, β-galactosidase, cathepsins B and D in blood and gastric tissue, elevating the activities of β-glucuronidase and cathepsin D in lysosomal organelles, decreasing the contents of ROS, MCP-1, KC, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18 in blood, MDA content and MPO and LDH activities in gastric tissue and increasing the contents of IL-4 and IL-10 in blood and activities of SOD, CAT and GSH-Px in gastric tissue. Other phenomena were also observed after the treatment with total triterpenoids from C. speciosa, including the down-regulation of the mRNA and protein expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, Bax and Bad, the protein expression levels of p-IKKβ, p-IκBα, NLRP3, ASC, pro-caspase-1, caspase-1, TXNIP, pro-IL-1β, pro-IL-18, cytochrome C, Apaf-1, cleaved-caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-PARP-1 and nuclear NF-κB p65, reduction of p-IKKβ/IKKβ and p-IκBα/IκBα ratios and up-regulation of the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, up-regulation of pro-caspase-9, pro-caspace-3, cytosol NF-κB p65 protein expression levels and Bcl-2/Bax and Bcl-xl/Bad ratios in gastric tissue. These aforementioned results suggest that the total triterpenoids from C. speciosa have significant protective effects against CAG induced by Hp, and its mechanism may be related to enhancing the function of endogenous antioxidant system, suppressing the oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction induced by Hp, correcting lysosomal dysfunction and inflammatory activation of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway and thus inhibiting mitochondria-mediated apoptosis.

Valor de uso etnomedicinal de la flora del Cerro "La Botica" empleada por la Comunidad Andina de Cachicadán - Perú / Ethnomedicinal use value of the flora of the Hill "La Botica" used by the Andean Community of Cachicadán - Perú

La presente investigación se avocó a determinar el valor de uso etnomedicinal dado a la flora del Cerro "La Botica", por la Comunidad Andina de Cachicadán, Santiago de Chuco, Perú. Se aplicaron 96 entrevistas semiestructuradas, siguiendo la técnica "bola de nieve". Se realizaron colectas mediante exploraciones botánicas. Para cada una de las especies se detallaron los datos de familia, nombre científico y común, parte utilizada, enfermedad o dolencia tratada, ubicación en UTM e índice de valor de uso (IVU). Se reportan 48 especies empleadas etnomedicinalmente por la Comunidad Andina de Cachicadán, distribuidas en 46 géneros y 26 familias, de las que destacan por su número de especies: Asteraceae (10), Rosaceae (5) y Lamiaceae (3). De estas, el 72 % (35 especies) resultan muy importantes para la cura o tratamiento de sus enfermedades, según su valor de uso (IVU). Además los pobladores de la Comunidad Andina de Cachicadán, refieren padecer de 38 enfermedades o dolencias; agrupadas en 10 categorías, donde prevalecen, las de los sistemas: respiratorio (FCI=0.88), digestivo y gastrointestinal (FCI=0.85), reproductivo (FCI=0.84), urinario (FCI= 0.84), nervioso (FCI=0.83), Músculo-esquelético (FCI=0.82), cardiovascular (FCI=0.82) y rituales (FCI=0.81).

The present investigation was aimed at determining the value of ethnomedicinal use that is given to the flora of the Hill "La Botica", by the Andean Community of Cachicadán, Santiago de Chuco, Perú. 96 semi-structured interviews were applied, following the "snowball" technique. Collections were made by botanical explorations.For each of the species, family data, scientific and common name, part used, disease or disease treated, location in UTM and use value index (IVU) were detailed. 48 species of flora are used ethnobotanically by the Andean Community of Cachicadán, distributed in 46 genera and 26 families, of which they stand out for their number of species: Asteraceae (10), Rosaceae (5) and Lamiaceae (3). Of these, 72% (35 species) are very important for the cure or treatment of their diseases, according to their use value (IVU). In addition the inhabitants of the Andean Community of Cachicadán, report suffering from 38 diseases or ailments; grouped into 10 categories, where they prevail, those of the systems: respiratory (FCI = 0.88), digestive and gastrointestinal (FCI = 0.85), reproductive (FCI = 0.84), urinary (FCI = 0.84), nervous (FCI = 0.83), Musculoskeletal (FCI = 0.82), cardiovascular (FCI = 0.82) and rituals (FCI = 0.81).

Faunistic analyses of fruit fly species (Diptera: Tephritidae) in orchards surrounded by Atlantic Forest fragments in the metropolitan region of Curitiba, Paraná state, Brazil / Análise faunística de moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) em pomares rodeados por fragmentos da Mata Atlântica na região metropolitana de Curitiba, Paraná, Brasil

Abstract The objective of this trial was to characterize the assemblage structure of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) by determining the diversity and faunal indices. Fruit flies were collected for ten years between 2003 and 2015 in six municipalities of the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba, Paraná. The orchards were divided into three crop protection strategies: organic, conventional, and integrated pest management. The characteristic of each community was determined using the Shannon-Wiener, Margalef, and Pielou's indexes. The frequency, constancy, and dominance indexes were also determined. Biological material was analyzed using the explanatory variables: site, crop, plant protection strategy, and susceptibility period. A total of 8,089 fruit flies were collected, of which 4,681 were females. The species Anastrepha daciformis Bezzi, A. dissimilis Stone, A. distincta Greene and A. pickeli Lima were recorded for the first time in Paraná State, the occurrence of three other species was recorded for the first time in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba (A. montei Lima, A. obliqua Macquart, and A. sororcula Zucchi), in addition A. fraterculus (Wiedemann), A. grandis (Macquart) and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann). A. fraterculus accounted for 98.5% of the collected species. Only A. fraterculus and A. sororcula were found in fruits. Fruit flies occurred predominantly in peach trees cultivated under organic conditions. The Shannon index indicated that the municipality of Cerro Azul had the highest diversity and richness whereas apple orchards had the lowest diversity. Crops cultivated under organic conditions exhibited the highest diversity whereas those cultivated under conventional conditions had the highest evenness index. The largest specimens number was collected during the period of crop susceptibility.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar agrupamento de espécies de moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) pela determinação da diversidade e dos índices faunísticos. As moscas-das-frutas foram coletadas por dez anos entre 2003 e 2015 em seis municípios da Região Metropolitana de Curitiba, no Paraná. Os pomares foram divididos em três estratégias de proteção de culturas: orgânica, convencional e integrada. A característica de cada comunidade foi determinada usando os índices de Shannon-Wiener, Margalef e Pielou. Os índices de freqüência, constância e dominância também foram determinados. O material biológico foi analisado utilizando as variáveis explicativas: local, cultura, estratégia de proteção e período de susceptibilidade. Foram coletadas 8.089 moscas-das-frutas, sendo 4.681 fêmeas. As espécies Anastrepha daciformis Bezzi, A. dissimilis Stone, A. distincta Greene e A. pickeli Lima foram registradas pela primeira vez no Estado do Paraná, e pela primeira vez, na Região Metropolitana de Curitiba, as espécies A. montei Lima, A. obliqua Macquart e A. sororcula Zucchi), além de A. fraterculus (Wiedemann), A. grandis (Macquart) e Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann). A. fraterculus foi responsável por 98,5% das espécies coletadas. Apenas A. fraterculus e A. sororcula foram encontrados em frutos. As moscas-das-frutas ocorreram predominantemente em pessegueiros cultivados sob condições orgânicas. O índice de Shannon indicou que o município de Cerro Azul teve a maior diversidade e riqueza, enquanto que a cultura macieira teve a menor diversidade. As culturas sob condição orgânica exibiram a maior diversidade, enquanto as cultivadas em condições convencionais apresentaram o maior índice de uniformidade. O maior número de espécimes foi coletado durante o período de suscetibilidade à cultura.

Glucosides of chaenomeles speciosa attenuate ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury by regulating NF-κB P65/TNF-α in mouse model / 浙江大学学报·医学版

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effect and mechanism of glucosides of chaenomeles speciosa (GCS) on ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury in mouse model.@*METHODS@#Fifty 8-week C57BL/C mice were randomly divided into five groups with 10 in each group:sham group, model group, GCS 30 mg/kg group, GCS 60 mg/kg group and GCS 90 mg/kg group, and the GCS was administrated by gavage (once a day) for 14 d. HE staining was performed to investigate the cell morphology; the Zea-Longa scores were measured for neurological activity; TUNEL staining was performed to investigate the cell apoptosis; ELISA was used to detected the oxidative stress and inflammation; Western Blot was performed to investigate the key pathway and neurological functional molecules.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the sham group, the brain tissues in model group were seriously damaged, presenting severe cell apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation, associated with increased NF-κB P65 and TNF-α levels as well as decreased myelin associate glycoprotein (MAG) and oligodendrocyte-myelin glycoprotein (OMgp)levels (all <0.01). Compared with the model group, the brain tissues in GCS groups were ameliorated, and cell apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation were inhibited, associated with decreased NF-κB P65 and TNF-α levels as well as increased MAG and OMgp levels (all <0.01), which were more markedly in GCS 60 mg/kg group.@*CONCLUSIONS@#GCS can inhibit the NF-κB P65 and TNF-α, reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation, decrease the cell apoptosis in mouse ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury model, and 60 mg/kg GCS may be the optimal dose.

Therapeutic effect of total triterpenoids of Chaenomeles speciosa combined with omeprazole on gastric ulcer induced by indomethacin in rats / 中国中药杂志

The aim of this paper was to observe the combination therapy with total triterpenoids of Chaenomeles speciosa and omeprazole on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats, and explore its possible mechanism. Rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group, omeprazole monotherapy(3.6 mg·kg~(-1)) group, total triterpenoids of C. speciosa monotherapy(100 mg·kg~(-1)) group, total triterpenoids of C. speciosa and omeprazole combination therapy(100 mg·kg~(-1)+3.6 mg·kg~(-1)) group. Except for the normal group, the other groups were given indomethacin(20 mg·kg~(-1)) by oral once a day for 7 consecutive days. Then the treated groups were given corresponding drugs by gavage, once a day for 14 consecutive days. The next day after the last administration, half of the rats in each group were measured the gastric mucosal blood flow, gastric juice volume and serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-10. After the remaining rats in each group were underwent pyloric ligation 4 hours after the last administration, the gastric endocrine volume, pH value and total acidity of gastric secretion were measured, then histological analysis was performed, MPO activity, cAMP content and histomorphological analysis were conducted. Real-time PCR was applied to detect the mRNA expressions of gastric tissue TNF-α,IL-1β, IL-6, IL-4, IL-10, VEGFA, A_(2A)R; the protein expressions of VEGFA, A_(2A)R, PKA, p-PKA, CREB, p-CREB, EGF, EGFR, p-EGFR, MUC6, TFF2 in gastric tissue were detected by Western blot. The results indicated that total triterpenoids of C. speciosa and omeprazole combination therapy might significantly increase gastric mucosal blood flow, gastric mucus volume, reduce gastric endocrine volume, secretion acidity and mucosal damage, decrease the levels of TNF-α,IL-1β and IL-6, increase the levels of IL-4 and IL-10 in blood and gastric tissue, inhibit the activity of MPO, increase the content of cAMP in gastric tissue, up-regulate the mRNA expressions of VEGFA, A_(2A)R and protein expressions of VEGFA, A_(2A)R, PKA, p-PKA, CREB, p-CREB, EGF, EGFR, p-EGFR, MUC6, TFF2 in gastric tissue, elevate p-PKA/PKA, p-CREB/CREB and p-EFGR/EFGR. Moreover, the combination therapy with total triterpenoids of C. speciosa and omeprazole was more obvious than those of two monotherapies. These aforementioned findings suggested that the combination therapy with total triterpenoids of C. speciosa and omeprazole on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer have significant therapeutic effect on indomethacin induced gastric ulcer in rats, its mechanism might be related to regulating A_(2A)R/AKT/CREB, A_(2A)R/VEGFA, EGF/EGFR and MUC6/TFF2 signaling pathways, inhibiting pro-inflammatory factors, increasing gastric mucosal blood flow, up-regulating mucosal cell proliferation factors and promoting mucosal protective factors.

A new isobenzofuranone derivative from Chaenomeles sinensis and its antibacterial activity / 中国中药杂志

A new isobenzofuranone derivative was isolated from Chaenomeles sinensis by using various chromatographic techniques,including silica gel,Sephadex LH-20,MCI-gel resin and RP-HPLC. This compound was determined as 2,2-dimethyl-5-( 2-oxopropyl)-2 H-furo[3,4-h]chromen-7( 9 H)-one( 1) by NMR,MS,IR and UV spectra,and was also evaluated for its antibacterial activity. The results showed that it showed prominent antibacterial activity with MIC90 value of( 53. 7±4. 5) mg·L-1 for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus( MRSA) strain. This value is close to that of levofloxacin [with MIC90 value( 50. 2± 4. 2) mg·L-1].

Tipo de derivación urinaria en el paciente llevado a cistectomía radical, participación del urólogo y tasa de filtración de la anastomosis intestinal / Type of urinary diversion in the patient led to a radical cystectomy, participation of the urologist, and filtration rate of intestinal anastomosis

Objetivo Conocer la prevalencia de cistectomías radicales que se realizan en centros especializados en Colombia, definiendo tipo de derivación intestinal, participantes en su creación, segmento intestinal utilizado y tasa de filtración. Materiales y métodos Se realizó una encuesta a instituciones de salud colombianas que realizan cistectomías radicales de manera rutinaria, se analizaron variables como número de procedimientos por año, segmento intestinal utilizado, tipo de especialidad participante en la anastomosis intestinal y la tasa de filtración de esta. Resultados Quince instituciones colombianas respondieron la encuesta, el número de cistectomías realizadas por año fue: 5/15 (33,3%) más de 15 cirugías al año, 4/15(26,6%) entre 11 y 15 procedimientos al año, 3/15 (20%) entre 5 y 10 y otro 3/15 (20%) entre 1 y 5 cistectomías al año. El 93,3% de las instituciones realizan Bricker como derivación más común; solo una institución (6,7%) lleva a cabo ureterostomías cutáneas. Con respecto a los participantes en la creación de la anastomosis de las 14 instituciones, en 9 (64,2%) es realizada por cirujano general, en 4 (28,5%) la lleva a cabo un urólogo y en una (7,4%) la derivación es realizada por coloproctólogo. La gran mayoría de los centros tiene una incidencia baja de filtración intestinal. Conclusiones En la gran mayoría de las instituciones colombianas el cirujano general y en menor medida el urólogo participan en la creación de la anastomosis intestinal como parte del protocolo de la institución. La filtración es una complicación poco frecuente pero con alta morbimortalidad. Se requiere de entrenamiento por parte del urólogo en formación para lograr mejores resultados.

Objective To determine the prevalence of radical cystectomies that are performed in specialist centres in Colombia, defining the type of intestinal derivation, participants in its creation, intestinal segment used, and filtration rate. Materials and methods A survey was conducted in Colombian health institutions that routinely perform radical cystectomies. An analysis was made of the variables, such as number of procedures per year, intestinal segment used, specialty participating in the intestinal anastomosis, and the rate of filtration. Results A total of 15 health institutions responded to the survey. The number of cystectomies performed per year was; 5/15 (33.3%) with greater than 15 surgeries per year, 4/15 (26.6%) with between 11 and 15 procedures per year, 3/15 (20%) between 5­10/year, and another 3/15 (20%) between 1­5 cystectomies per year. Most (93.3%) of the institutions performed a Bricker as the most common derivation, with only one institution (6.7%) performing cutaneous ureterostomies. As regards the participants in the creation of the anastomosis of the 14 institutions, 9 (64.2%) were performed by a general surgeon, by a urologist in 4 (28.5%), and a coloproctologist performed the shunt in one (7.4%). The vast majority of centres have a low incidence of intestinal filtration. Conclusions In the great majority of Colombian institutions, the general surgeon, and to a lesser extent the urologist, participate in the creation of intestinal anastomosis as part of the protocol of the institution. Filtration is a rare complication, but with a high morbidity and mortality. Training by the urologist during training is required to achieve better results.

Effect of total triterpenoids of Chaenomeles speciosa on PPARγ/SIRT1/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway and intestinal mucosal barrier of ulcerative colitis induced by DSS in mice / 中国中药杂志

To observe the effect of total triterpenoids of Chaenomeles speciosa on PPARγ/SIRT1/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway and intestinal mucosal barrier of ulcerative colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in mice, C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into normal group, model group, total triterpenoids of C. speciosa (50, 100 mg·kg⁻¹) groups and sulfasalazine (250 mg·kg⁻¹) group. The ulcerative colitis (UC) model was induced by orally administering 2.5% DSS to the experimental mice, and the corresponding drugs were given to each group 3 days before the administration with 2.5% DSS. The normal group and the model group were given the equal volume of 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose sodium solution by gavage continuously for 10 days, q.d. The general conditions of the mice were observed on a daily basis, and the disease activity index (DAI) score was recorded. On the 10th day after the treatment, mice were put to death, the contents of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10 in the blood were detected, colon length was measured, colon mucosa damage index (CMDI) score was calculated, and MPO activity detection and histomorphology analysis were conducted. Real-time PCR was applied to detect the mRNA expressions of E-cadherin, occluding,MUC2 and TFF3; the protein expressions of SIRT1, IKKβ, p-IKKβ, IκBα, p-IκBα and cytosol and nucleus PPARγ, NF-κBp65 in intestinal tissue were detected by western blot. The results indicated that total triterpenoids of C. speciosa (50, 100 mg·kg⁻¹) could significantly improve the general conditions of UC mice, reduce the DAI, CMDI and histopathological scores, increase the colon length, reduce the colonic mucosa ulcers, erosion and inflammatory infiltration, restore the normal intestinal mucosal barrier function, reduce the contents of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, increase the contents of IL-4 and IL-10 in the blood, inhibit MPO activity in colon tissue, up-regulate the mRNA expressions of E-cadherin, occludin, MUC2 and TFF3 in colon tissue, down-regulate the protein expressions of cytosol PPARγ, tissue p-IKKβ, p-IκBα and nucleus NF-κBp65 in the colon tissue, decrease the p-IKKβ/IKKβ and p-IκBα/IκBα ratios, up-regulate the protein expressions of nucleus PPARγ, tissue SIRT1 and cytosol NF-κBp65 (<0.05 or <0.01, respectively), with a dose-effect relationship between the total triterpenoids of C. speciosa treated groups. These findings suggested that total triterpenoids of C. speciosa had a significantly therapeutic effect on UC mice induced by DSS, its mechanism might be related to the regulation of PPARγ/SIRT1/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway, the inhibition of pro-inflammatory factor formation and the up-regulation of protein expression of protective factors.

Efecto de borde en la distribución de líquenes y el contenido de clorofilas en fragmentos de Polylepis quadrijuga (Rosaceae) en el páramo de La Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia) / Edge effect on lichen's distribution and chlorophyll content, in fragments of Polylepis quadrijuga (Rosaceae) in Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia)

Resumen:La fragmentación de los ecosistemas es uno de los fenómenos antrópicos de mayor impacto global, y el efecto borde provoca que solo el interior de los fragmentos conserve sus características bióticas y abióticas originales. Los líquenes son organismos especialmente susceptibles a la variabilidad ambiental, lo que podría ser útil para la bio-indicación del efecto borde. En este trabajo se evaluó el efecto borde en dos fragmentos de Polylepis quadrijuga en el Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia), para determinar si existe un efecto borde sobre la distribución de los líquenes asociados a P. quadrijuga y su contenido de clorofilas. Se utilizaron tres transectos de 70 m a través del gradiente matriz-borde-interior en cada fragmento. Se escogieron nueve forofitos por transecto para medir variables ambientales: radiación fotosintéticamente activa, humedad relativa y temperatura del aire, y variables biológicas: riqueza y cobertura de cada especie. Además, fueron elegidas las especies que estaban presentes en las tres zonas del gradiente para cuantificar el contenido de clorofilas a y b, y determinar si hay cambios en la relación de clorofilas a/b que podrían sugerir plasticidad fisiológica como respuesta al efecto borde. Nuestros resultados mostraron que el fragmento 2 tenía una mayor exposición al borde debido a su alta relación perímetro/área, lo que causa una homogenización ambiental y pérdida de biodiversidad con relación con el fragmento 1. En general, se encontraron 55 especies que se distribuyen diferencialmente en relación con los fragmentos y el gradiente matriz-borde-interior. El interior del fragmento 1 fue la zona más conservada, que alberga una composición diferente en más de un 40 % a la composición de cualquier otra zona. Se clasificaron los líquenes de acuerdo con sus hábitos: gelatinosos, fruticosos, costrosos o foliosos, pero no se encontró ninguna relación entre la distribución por hábito y el efecto borde. Seis especies de amplia distribución mostraron cambios en el contenido de clorofila a lo largo del gradiente matriz-borde-interior, lo que es una evidencia de la plasticidad fisiológica al efecto borde. También fue posible diferenciar entre especies con preferencia por ambientes de alta temperatura y especies con preferencia a lugares más húmedos y suficientemente irradiados. Se concluye que algunas especies podrían tener un importante potencial como bio-indicadores de la fragmentación en ambientes de páramo.

Abstract:The ecosystems fragmentation is one of the anthropic phenomena with highest impact at global level and the edge effect causes that only the interior of fragments conserves their original biotic and abiotic characteristics. Lichens are organisms especially susceptible to environmental variability, what could be useful for bio-indication of edge effect. In this work, we evaluated the edge effect in two fragments of Polylepis quadrijuga in the Páramo de la Rusia (Boyacá-Colombia) to determine if there is an edge effect on distribution of lichens associated to P. quadrijuga and their chlorophyll content. We used three transects of 70 m across the matrix-edge-interior gradient in each fragment. We chose nine phorophytes per transect to measure the environmental variables: photosynthetically active radiation, relative humidity and air temperature, and the biological variables: richness and cover per species. Besides, we employed the species that were present in all the three zones of the gradient to quantify the content of chlorophylls a and b, and determine if there are changes in the ratio of chlorophylls a/b that could suggest physiological plasticity as a response to the edge effect. Our results showed that fragment 2 had a higher edge exposition because of its high relation perimeter/area, allowing to an environmental homogenization and lose of biodiversity in relation with fragment 1. Overall, we found 55 differentially distributed species in relation with the fragments and the matrix-edge-interior gradient. The interior of fragment 1 was the most conserved zone, harboring a composition different in more than 40 % to the composition of any other zone. We classified the lichens according with their habits: gelatinous, fruticose, crusty or foliose, but we did not find any relationship between the habit distribution and the edge effect. Six species of wide distribution showed changes in the chlorophyll content along the matrix- edge-interior gradient, what is an evidence of physiological plasticity to edge effect. It was also possible to distinguish between species with preference to warmer environment and species with preference to more humid and sufficiently irradiated places. We concluded that some species of lichens could have an important potential as bio-indicators of fragmentation in the páramo. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1683-1697. Epub 2016 December 01.

Sorbus rufopilosa Extract Exhibits Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities by Inducing Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Colon Adenocarcinoma HT29 Cells

BACKGROUND: Sorbus rufopilosa, a tsema rowan, is a species of the small ornamental trees in the genus Sorbus and the family Rosaceae found in East Asia. The bioactivities of S. rufopilosa have not yet been fully determined. The objective of this study is to evaluate the antioxidant and anticancer effects of ethanol extract of S. rufopilosa (EESR) and to determine the molecular mechanism of its anticancer activity in human colon carcinoma HT29 cells. METHODS: To examine the antioxidant activity of EESR, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity assay was performed. Inhibitory effect of EESR on cancer cell growth and proliferation was determined by water-soluble tetrazolium salt assay. To investigate the mechanism of EESR-mediated cytotoxicity, HT29 cells were treated with various concentrations of EESR and the induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry, 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, and Western blot analysis. RESULTS: EESR showed significant antioxidant activity and inhibitory effect on HT29 cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. EESR induced cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase in a dose-dependent manner by modulating cyclin B, cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), and CDK inhibitor p21 expression. EESR-induced apoptosis was associated with the upregulation of p53, a death receptor Fas, and a pro-apoptotic protein Bax and the activation of caspase 3, 8, and 9, resulting in the degradation of PARP. CONCLUSIONS: EESR possessing antioxidant activity efficiently inhibits proliferation of HT29 cells by inducing both cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. EESR may be a possible candidate for the anticancer drug development.

Variation of the Contents of Triterpenoids and Tannins Depending on Growth and Infection in the Leaves of Rubus crataegifolius and Rubus parvifolius

Several 19alpha-hydroxyursane-type triterpenoids and hydrolysable tannins have beneficial effects on human health. Rubus crataegifolius (Rosaceae) has the cleft simple leaf whereas R. parvifolius has pinnate compound leaves. This research was aimed to find the variation in the contents of the triterpenoids and tannins between the infected versus uninfected leaves of R. coreanus and R. parvifolius and between young versus mature leaves. Triterpenoids and tannins were quantitatively analyzed by HPLC. Six triterpenoids including tormentic acid, euscaphic acid, 23-hydroxytormentic acid, coreanoside F1, kaji-ichigoside F1 and niga-ichigoside F1 were used for standard compounds. Gallotannins and ellagitannins were quantitatively evaluated using the indicatives of methyl gallate and ellagic acid. The infected leaves of R. crataegifolius contained higher levels of triterpenoids and tannin than the uninfected leaves; however, lower quantity of total tannin was observed in the mature leaves than in the young leaves. Although the pinnate compound leaves of R. parvifolius exhibited similar tendency of those compositional variation with R. crataegifolius each other, its contents of triterpenoids do not considerably vary. Variation of the contents of triterpenoids and tannins were particularly distinct in R. crataegifolius by growth and infection.

Influence of rootstocks on growth, yield, fruit quality and leaf mineral element contents of pear cv. 'Santa Maria' in semi-arid conditions

BACKGROUND: Rootstocks play an essential role to determining orchard performance of fruit trees. Pyrus communisand Cydonia oblonga are widely used rootstocks for European pear cultivars. The lack of rootstocks adapted to different soil conditions and different grafted cultivars is widely acknowledged in pear culture. Cydonia rootstocks (clonal) and Pyrus rootstocks (seedling or clonal) have their advantages and disadvantages. In each case, site-specific environmental characteristics, specific cultivar response and production objectives must be considered before choosing the best rootstock. In this study, the influence of three Quince (BA 29, Quince A = MA, Quince C = MC) and a local European pear seedling rootstocks on the scion yield, some fruit quality characteristics and leaf macro (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) and micro element (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and B) content of 'Santa Maria' pear (Pyrus communis L.) were investigated. RESULTS: Trees on seedling rootstock had the highest annual yield, highest cumulative yield (kg tree(-1)), largest trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), lowest yield efficiency and lowest cumulative yield (ton ha(-1)) in the 10th year after planting. The rootstocks had no significant effect on average fruit weight and fruit volume. Significantly higher fruit firmness was obtained on BA 29 and Quince A. The effect of rootstocks on the mineral element accumulation (N, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and B) was significant. Leaf analysis showed that rootstocks used had different mineral uptake efficiencies throughout the early season. CONCLUSION: The results showed that the rootstocks strongly affected fruit yield, fruit quality and leaf mineral element uptake of 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar. Pear seedling and BA 29 rootstock found to be more prominent in terms of several characteristics for 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar that is grown in highly calcareous soil in semi-arid climate conditions. We determined the highest N, P (although insignificant), K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Cu mineral element concentrations on the pear seedling and BA 29 rootstocks. According to the results, we recommend the seedling rootstock for normal density plantings (400 trees ha(-1)) and BA 29 rootstock for high-density plantings (800 trees ha(-1)) for 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar in semi-arid conditions.

Potencial inseticida de óleos de origem vegetal sobre Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) / Insecticidal potential of vegetable oil extracts on Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Em decorrência do estudo das interações químicas entre insetos e herbívoros, e do avanço da pesquisa fitoquímica, é conhecida ampla variedade de produtos naturais com potencial inseticida. Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), mariposa-oriental, é uma das principais pragas do pessegueiro, danificando brotações e frutos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a mortalidade, atratividade e deterrência de óleos vegetais em G. molesta. Ovos e pupas de insetos provindos de criação artificial foram imersos nos óleos essenciais de Elionurus muticus (Spreng.) Kuntze e Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt ex Bor nas concentrações de 0,25%, 0,5%, 1% e 0,5%, 1%, 5%. Os testes de atratividade foram realizados em olfatômetro do tipo "Y". A deterrência à oviposição foi testada em gaiolas sem escolha e de dupla escolha. O óleo de E. muticus aplicado em ovos de G. molesta nas três concentrações causou mortalidades maiores que 30%, diferindo significativamente dos controles (p<0,05). A mortalidade causada pelo óleo de citronela foi em torno de 70%, significativamente superior ao controle (p<0,01). O óleo de citronela aplicado a 1% em pupas causou mortalidade de 99,8%. No teste com o olfatômetro, não houve atratividade dos adultos para nenhum dos óleos. A média de ovos no substrato com o tratamento (0,33±0,33), foi significativamente menor que no controle (7,3±0,88) (p<0,01), indicando deterrência à oviposição.

As a result of the study on the chemical interactions between insects and herbivores and the advancement of phytochemical research studies, a variety of natural products with great insecticidal potential are described in the literature. The Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), commonly known as Oriental Fruit Moth, is a major peach pest damaging shoots and fruits. The purpose of this study was to assess the mortality, attractiveness and deterrence of vegetable oils in G. molesta. Insect eggs and pupae artificially created were immersed in the essential oils of Elionurus muticus (Spreng.) Kuntze and/or Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt ex Bor at the concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, 1% and 0.5%, 1%, 5%, respectively. The attractiveness tests were performed in a Y-Tube olfactometer. Oviposition deterrence was tested in no-choice and dual-choice cages. Oil of E. muticus applied in eggs of G. molesta at three concentrations caused mortality above 30%, which differs significantly from controls (p<0.05). Mortality caused by citronella oil was approximately 70%, significantly higher than control (p<0.01). The application of citronella oil at 1% in pupae caused mortality of 99.8%. There was no attractiveness of adults in the olfactometer test for any of the oils. Citronella oil presented oviposition deterrence, as the mean number of eggs in the substrate with the treatment (0.33 ± 0.33) is significantly lower than in the control (7.3 ± 0.88) (p<0.01).

Chemical constituents of Tibetan medicine kandrakari (I) / 中国中药杂志

In order to illuminate the effective compounds in Tibetan medicine kandrakari, chemical composition of dry stems of Rubus amabilis were studied by means of various chromatographic techniques, leading to the isolation of 11 compounds. On the basis of spectroscopic data, their structures were elucidated as 1,8-dihydroxy-3,7-dimethoxyxanthone (1), 1-hydroxy-3,7,8-trimethoxyxanthone (2), 1,8-dihydroxy-3,5-dim ethoxyxanthone (3), kaempfero-3-O-(6"-trans-p-coumaroyl) -beta-D-glucopyranoside (4), quercetin (5), kaempferol (6), hyperoside (7), luteolin-7-O-beta-D-glucopy ranoside (8), apigenin-7-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (9), isovitexin-7-O-glucoside (10), and procyanidin B4 (11). Compounds 1-3 were isolated from the Rubus genus for the first time,and compounds 1-6, 10-11 were isolated from R. amabilis for the first time.

Rubus parvifolius L. inhibited the growth of leukemia K562 cells in vitro and in vivo / 中国结合医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To determine the antiproliferative activity of Rubus parvifolius L. (RP) extract, its medicinal serum and RP total saponins (RPTS) against K562 cells in vitro and in vivo.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Nude mice models bearing leukemia tumors were treated with different concentrations of RP extract. The size, weight and histopathological change of leukemic tumors were determined. Semi-solid agar culture and methylthiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay were used to determine in vitro the inhibition of colony formation and proliferation of K562 cells respectively by different concentrations of RP medicinal serum and RPTS.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>RP extract had a tumor inhibition rate of 84.8% when administered to mice at a dose of 1.0 g/day of crude RP root equivalent. Semi-solid agar culture of K562 cells in the presence of 20% (v/v) of RP medicinal serum and 150 mg/L RPTS demonstrated a 50.8% and 100% inhibition of the colony forming unit (CFU)-K562, respectively. The same doses of RP medicinal serum and RPTS showed a proliferation inhibition of 31.4% and 86.3%, respectively against K562 cells in MTT assay.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>RP extract and RPTS show effective antiproliferative activity against myeloid leukemia cells in vitro and in vivo.</p>

Estimation of antioxidant, antimicrobial activity and brine shrimp toxicity of plants collected from Oymyakon region of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia

BACKGROUND: Several plants are reported to be produced various biological active compounds. Lichens from the extreme environments such as high altitude, high UV, drought and cold are believed to be synthesized unique types of secondary metabolites than the other one. Several human pathogenic bacteria and fungi have been muted into drug resistant strains. Various synthetic antioxidant compounds have posed carcinogenic effects. This phenomenon needs further research for new effective drugs of natural origin. This manuscript aimed to screen new source of biological active compounds from plants of subarctic origin. RESULTS: A total of 114 plant species, including 80 species of higher plants, 19 species of lichens and 15 species of mosses, were collected from Oymyakon region of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia (63˚20′N, 141˚42′E - 63˚15′N, 142˚27′E). Antimicrobial, DPPH free radical scavenging and brine shrimp (Artemia salina) toxicity of all crude extract were evaluated. The obtained result was analyzed and compared with commercial standards. A total of 28 species of higher plants showed very strong antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50, 0.45-5.0 µg/mL), 13 species showed strong activity (DPPH IC50, 5-10 µg/mL), 22 species showed moderate antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50,10-20 µg/mL) and 17 species showed weak antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 more than 20 µg/mL). Similarly, 3 species of lichen showed strong antioxidant activity, one species showed moderate and 15 species showed weak DPPH reducing activity. In addition, 4 species of mosses showed moderate antioxidant activity and 11 species showed weak antioxidant activity. Similarly, extracts of 51 species of higher plants showed antimicrobial (AM) activity against Staphylococcus aureus and 2 species showed AM activity against Candida albicans. Similarly, 11 species of lichen showed AM activity against S. aureus and 3 species showed AM activity against Escherichia coli. One species of moss showed AM activity against S. aureus. And finally, one species of higher plant Rheum compactum and one species of lichen Flavocetraria cucullata showed the toxicity against Brine shrimp larvae in 100 µg/mL of concentration. CONCLUSION: The experimental results showed that subarctic plant species could be potential sources of various biologically active natural compounds.

Staphylococcal abscess caused by trauma with a rosebush aculeus (Plantae, Rosaceae): apropos of a case / Abscesso estafilococico provocado por traumatismo com aculeo de uma rosa (Plantae, Rosaceae): a proposito de um caso

Cutaneous abscess is a localized collection of pus in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue usually caused by trauma. The authors report the case of a 30-year-old male patient, gardener, that presents an ulcerated plaque in the third right finger, caused by an aculeus plant wound. The examination of the lesion's exudate ruled out the existence of fungi and showed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. The authors emphasize the sporotrichosis as an important differential diagnosis, especially in endemic areas, and the indication of the exudate culture is discussed.

Abscesso cutâneo é uma coleção de pus localizada na derme e tecido celular subcutâneo decorrente, em geral, de traumatismos. Os autores relatam o caso de um paciente de 30 anos, jardineiro, apresentando uma placa ulcerada, no terceiro quirodáctilo direito, provocada por ferimento com acúleo de planta. O exame do exsudato da lesão descartou a presença de fungos e revelou a presença de Staphylococcus aureus. Os autores enfatizam a importância de se lembrar da esporotricose no diagnóstico diferencial, principalmente em regiões endêmicas e discutem a indicação da cultura do exsudato no caso apresentado.

Variabilidad ambiental y respuestas fisiológicas de Polylepis cuadrijuga (Rosaceae) en un ambiente fragmentado en el Páramo de la Rusia (Colombia) / Environmental variability and physiological responses from Polylepis cuadrijuga (Rosaceae) in a fragmented environment in the Páramo de la Rusia (Colombia)

Polylepis cuadrijuga is an endemic woody species from the Colombian Eastern range, being the only tree species with capacity to live on mountainous environments beyond 4 000m of altitude. Grazing and agriculture have transformed at least 30% of the Guantiva-La Rusia region, turning continuous extensions of high Andean forest in a fragmented landscape, and P. cuadrijuga remnants have become smaller and more isolated. The aim of this study was to establish the environmental differences between a matrix of grazing pastures and the interior of fragments, to evaluate the physiological responses of P. cuadrijuga and determining the edge effect. Air temperature and humidity, soil water holding capacity and photosynthetic active radiation, were measured along two 50X2m transects from the matrix toward the center of fragment. Six trees inside the transects were chosen in each one of three sites (matrix, edge and interior) to measure the index chlorophyll content and to sample leaves to assess the leaf area, leaf biomass, specific leaf area, anatomy, health condition and pubescence. Results showed significantly differences between the matrix and the interior and intermediate conditions in the edge. Radiation, temperature and air desiccation were higher in the matrix than in the interior, submitting P. cuadrijuga trees to a stressing environment, where they presented stratification of epidermis and palisade parenchyma, and a higher leaf area, leaf thickness, chlorophyll content and pubescence than in the interior of fragments. All these physiological traits allow avoiding the photoxidation and damages by freezing or desiccation to which trees are exposed in a grazing pasture matrix. Nevertheless, there was a higher frequency of healthy leaves in the interior of fragments, showing that high irradiations and extreme air temperature and humidity reach adversely affect to P. cuadrijuga. Individuals in the edge had ecophysiological traits similar to the matrix ones, which confirm an edge effect that could penetrate 17m inside the fragments. We conclude that P. cuadrijuga is a plastic species, able to overcome the stress conditions from anthropogenic transformations, species able to be used in high Andean forest restoration programs.

Polylepis cuadrijuga es una especie leñosa endémica de la cordillera oriental de Colombia, donde la agricultura y el pastoreo han generado la fragmentación de sus bosques. Para determinar si existe un efecto borde en fragmentos ubicados en el Páramo de la Rusia, se establecieron diferencias ambientales y se evaluó las respuestas ecofisiológicas de P. cuadrijuga entre matriz de pastura, borde e interior de los fragmentos, a través de la medición de temperatura ambiental, humedad relativa, capacidad de retención de agua del suelo y radiación fotosintéticamente activa, a lo largo de dos transectos de 50m desde la matriz hacia el interior. En cada sitio se escogieron seis árboles para evaluar el contenido de clorofila, área foliar, biomasa foliar, área foliar específica, anatomía foliar, sanidad y pubescencia. En matriz fue mayor la temperatura y la radiación, condiciones relacionadas con la disminución del AFE y el aumento del contenido de clorofilas, evidenciado por la presencia de un parénquima en empalizada biestratificado. Características ecofisiológicas similares a las expuestas en borde, confirman un efecto de borde que podría penetra unos 17m en el interior de los fragmentos. Se concluye que P. cuadrijuga es una especie plástica, capaz de enfrentar condiciones de estrés generadas por actividades antropogénicas.

Herpetogramma bipunctalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) biology and techniques for rearing on leaves of the blackberry (Rubus spp., Rosaceae) / Biologia e técnica de criação de Herpetogramma bipunctalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) em folhas de amoreira-preta (Rubus spp., Rosaceae)

The larvae of the southern beet webworm Herpetogramma bipunctalis (Fabricius, 1794) damage the leaves of species in the plant genus Rubus. The present study investigated the biology of H. bipunctalis and developed a protocol for raising H. bipunctalis under laboratory conditions. On the basis of the biological data, we devised a life table. In order to develop the rearing procedures, we determined which oviposition substrate and blackberry cultivar were the most appropriate for larval development. The mean durations of the egg, larval, and pupal stages were 5.59 days, 26.37 days, and 13.37 days, respectively, and the corresponding survival rates were 80.83%, 49.07%, and 83.23%. The mean pupal weight was 0.0491 g for males and 0.0536 g for females. The mean life cycle (egg-to-adult) period was 45.33 days, and overall survival to adulthood was 33.01%. H. bipunctalis females laid a mean of 252.63 eggs over a mean of 13.60 days of oviposition; the mean pre-oviposition period was 2.67 days. Mean female and male life spans were 17.51 and 19.25 days, respectively, and the sex ratio was 0.51. The life-table data indicated that H. bipunctalis can reproduce 57.9 times per generation. Each cage contained one blackberry leaf placed on a paper towel. This method allowed us to obtain the greatest number of eggs. The larval stage was shorter for insects reared on leaves of the Guarani cultivar than for those reared on leaves of the Xavante cultivar (22.63 vs. 26.37 days). These basic data can aid in establishing strategies for the management of H. bipunctalis on blackberry farms.

Lagartas de Herpetogramma bipunctalis (Fabricius, 1794) causam danos nas folhas da amoreira-preta (Rubus spp.). O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar sua biologia e desenvolver uma técnica de criação, em condições de laboratório. Com os dados de biologia, foi elaborada uma tabela de vida de fertilidade. Para o estudo da técnica de criação, foram determinados o substrato para obtenção de ovos e a cultivar de amoreira-preta mais adequada para o desenvolvimento larval. A duração dos estágios de ovo, lagarta e pupa foram de 5,59, 26,37 e 13,37 dias, com sobrevivência de 80,83, 49,07 e 83,23%, respectivamente. O peso das pupas foi 0,0491 g para machos e 0,0536 g para fêmeas. O ciclo biológico (ovo-adulto) foi de 45,33 dias, com sobrevivência total de 33,01%. As fêmeas colocaram, em média, 252,63 ovos durante 13,60 dias, com um período de pré-oviposição de 2,67 dias. A longevidade média de fêmeas e machos foi de 17,51 e 19,25 dias, respectivamente, e a razão sexual, de 0,51. Por meio da tabela de vida de fertilidade, determinou-se uma capacidade de aumento de 57,9 vezes a cada geração. Gaiolas revestidas com papel toalha e com a presença de folhas de amoreira-preta propiciaram a obtenção de uma maior quantidade de ovos. A duração do estágio larval para os insetos alimentados com folhas de amoreira-preta cv. Guarani (22,63 dias) foi menor do que aqueles alimentados com folhas da cv. Xavante (26,37 dias). Estas informações são básicas e auxiliarão em futuros estudos, visando ao estabelecimento de estratégias de manejo de H. bipunctalis em amoreira-preta.