Facile heteroatoms modification biochar production from mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) pericarps for enhanced the suppression of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are critical environmental concerns due to their intrinsic toxic aromatic nature and concomitant circumstances that potentially harm the ecological and human health. In this study, converting mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) pericarps to value-added biochar by pyrolysis for evaluating the potential formation/destruction of biochar-bound PAHs was studied for the first time. This study designed and optimized the thermal processing conditions at 300-900 °C in the CO2 or N2 atmosphere, and heteroatoms (N, O, B, NB, and NS) were modified for mahogany pericarps biochar (MPBC) production. The MPBC500 exhibited significantly higher pyrolysis products of PAHs (2780 ± 38 ng g-1) than that of MPBC900 (78 ± 6 ng g-1) under N2 without introducing modified elements. Specifically, the inhibition capacity of MPBC500 for PAHs under CO2 was improved most efficiently by the active nitrogen species of the pyridinic N and pyrrolic N groups. The pyrolysis conditions and heteroatom modification of MPBC altered its physicochemical properties, that is, aromaticity and hydrophobicity, affecting the PAH concentration and composition in the pyrolysis products. This study reveals sustainable approaches to reduce the environmental footprint of biochar by focusing on increases in PAHs pollution in sustainable biochar produced from a low-carbon bioeconomy perspective.

Putative Identification of New Phragmaline-Type Limonoids from the Leaves of Swietenia macrophylla King: A Case Study Using Mass Spectrometry-Based Molecular Networking.

Swietenia macrophylla King is a plant commonly known as Brazilian mahogany. The wood from its stem is highly prized for its exceptional quality, while its leaves are valued for their high content of phragmalin-type limonoids, a subclass of compounds known for their significant biological activities, including antimalarial, antitumor, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. In this context, twelve isolated limonoids from S. macrophylla leaves were employed as standards in mass spectrometry-based molecular networking to unveil new potential mass spectrometry signatures for phragmalin-type limonoids. Consequently, ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry was utilized for data acquisition. Subsequently, the obtained data were analyzed using the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking platform based on spectral similarity. In summary, this study identified 24 new putative phragmalin-type limonoids for the first time in S. macrophylla. These compounds may prove valuable in guiding future drug development efforts, leveraging the already established biological activities associated with limonoids.

Improvement of mahogany leaf extract dye fixation on cotton-modal blend.

The manufacture of regenerated cellulose-based fibers for better mechanical and comfort qualities was stimulated by the rising demand for cotton and the low production rate needed to meet global demands. Modal-cotton blend provides better tensile and moisture management properties. The present work has been designed to sketch out the scope of increased dye fixation or dye uptake opportunity onto the blends. Cotton-modal blend was dyed with mahogany leaf extract dyes avoiding mordant. The higher wash fastness rating 4/5, 5 along with the FTIR characteristic bands around 1190-1210 cm-1 created attention for the confirmation of dye-fibre bonding. But as modal is a regenerated cellulosic fibre, there was a suspect of uneven fixation because of dual way dye penetration options inside the fibre: direct bonding with cotton cellulose and dye penetration into swollen modal fibre through segmental mobility theory. Fortunately the uniformity of shade was affirmed by the determination of evenness through random CMC DE and K/S values at distinguished parts of the same sample. Mordantless mahogany dye fixation on cotton-modal blend was found even at the elevated dyeing temperature of 130 °C. The detailed CIE Lab data explored the close symmetry and uniformity of the dyeing outcomes of the blend.

Optimization of Physical Activation Process by CO2 for Activated Carbon Preparation from Honduras Mahogany Pod Husk.

In this work, the Honduras Mahogany (Swietenia macropnylla King, SMK) seed husk was used as a novel biomass resource for producing activated carbon by physical activation. The texture characteristics and chemical characterization of resulting products were investigated in correlation with the process parameters. Based on the thermochemical properties of the SMK biomass, the process conditions were set to a rate of about 10 °C/min under nitrogen (N2) flow of 500 cm3/min heated to 500 °C, then switched to carbon dioxide (CO2) flow of 100 cm3/min in the specified activation conditions (i.e., temperature of 700-850 °C for holding times of 0-60 min). Our findings showed that the texture characteristics (i.e., surface area and pore volume) increased with an activation temperature increase from 700 to 800 °C for a holding time of 30 min but gradually decreased as the temperature increased thereafter. Similarly, the texture characteristics also indicated an increasing trend with the residence time extending from 0 min to 30 min but slightly decreased as the time was extended to 60 min. Therefore, the optimal activation conditions for producing SMK-based activated carbon should be set at 800 °C for a holding time of 30 min to obtain the maximal texture characteristics (i.e., BET surface area of 966 m2/g and total pore volume of 0.43 cm3/g). On the other hand, the chemical characteristics were analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), showing oxygen complexes contained on the hydrophilic surface of the resulting activated carbon.

Exploring the potential of mahogany extract as a natural dye for the coloration of jute fabric.

The use of synthetic dyes in the textile industry is mostly non-degradable, which are carcinogenic and pollute the environment severely. Natural dyes have gained significant attention recently due to their potential to mitigate the environmental challenges associated with synthetic colorants. This investigation is centered around the extraction of natural dyes sourced from mahogany trees and the exploration of environmentally friendly techniques for coloring jute fabric. The derived dyes were procured from distinct segments of the mahogany tree: namely, the bark, fruits, and wood remnants. Employing an aqueous extraction methodology, inherent coloring agents were meticulously separated and subsequently applied to jute fabric subsequent to appropriate mordanting employing a variety of mordant categories. An exhaustive assessment encompassing wash, light, rubbing, and perspiration resistance was conducted on jute fabric that was subjected to dyeing using three distinct variants of mahogany tree-derived dyes. Notably, jute fabric treated with wood wastage-sourced dye exhibited commendable to exceptional resistance properties. The efficacy of this dyeing process was further substantiated through diverse characterization techniques, inclusive of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which unequivocally affirmed the successful bonding of mahogany-derived dyes onto the surface of the jute fabric. The textile industry, particularly dyeing operations that use large, designed colors and synthetic chemicals, is wreaking havoc on the sea-going environment by dumping emissions directly into bodies of water. Synthetic colors are commonly used to dye jute fabric, which has major health and environmental consequences. Therefore, concerning the environmental challenges, the dyeing of jute fabric using naturally extracted dyes from mahogany trees can be a suitable alternative to synthetic dyes in the textile industry.

Integrated pest management of Hypsipyla robusta shoot-tip borer (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Chukrasia tabularis (Sapindales: Meliaceae).

Chukrasia tabularis A. Juss produces a valuable timber but plantations are susceptible to attack by the shoot-tip borer Hypsipyla robusta Moore. An integrated pest management (IPM) approach is desirable to limit the extent of damage. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the deployment of IPM measures in plantations in Vietnam. Data on tree damage and the biology of H. robusta were gathered in 4 provinces over one year and used to build an investigation schedule. Two preliminary IPM trials were then established in which Bacillus thuringiensis and Metarhizium anisopliae were applied to the foliage when the damage incidence (P%) was in the range 5-10%; and insecticides (Carbaryl, Carbosulfan) were applied when the P% exceeded 10%. In addition, larvae and pupae were removed manually over time. In the first trial, the combination of manual and biological control methods reduced the damage index (DI) of trees from 4 tolerant families by 82% compared to the untreated control plots. In the second trial using standard planting stock, application of insecticides was required to reduce the DI by 83%. Six extended IPM trials were undertaken using the same IPM protocols and these reduced the DI to the same extent as in the preliminary trials. Over an 18-month period, the deployment of IPM increased height growth by 19-22% and diameter growth by 38-41% compared to the controls. These findings highlight the value of planting improved seed and the benefit of adopting an IPM approach to manage the shoot-tip borer.

Modeling the effects of size-dependent harvesting strategies on the population dynamics of tropical trees.

Several forest plant species are harvested both lethally for their timber and non-lethally for their non-timber forest products by the local people for cultural and economic reasons. To maximize yield, harvesters target various life stages of these species including both adults and juveniles particularly when the number of harvestable adults decline. The demographic consequences of harvesting various plant sizes differ based on what life stage is targeted. In this paper, we develop a size-structured, seasonal system of difference equations and corresponding matrix model with time-varying harvest to model the effects of size-dependent harvesting strategies on the population dynamics of tropical trees. We illustrate numerically our work specifically on African mahogany, Khaya senegalensis, a tropical tree in Benin. Novel applications and combinations of previously established matrix compression algorithms are presented to determine certain rates in our model, with other rates coming from the use of generalized linear modeling and ordinary least squares estimation incorporating observed population data. Harvesting rates for two types of populations are estimated, one with simulated harvest and the other experiencing natural harvest. Eigenvalue analysis suggests that for the populations in our study, harvesting may not have a drastic effect on the long-term persistence of the population. However, this should be taken with caution given that our model does not account for stochastic environmental variations that can interactively reduce population growth rates.

Thermal Niche for Seed Germination and Species Distribution Modelling of Swietenia macrophylla King (Mahogany) under Climate Change Scenarios.

Swietenia macrophylla is an economically important tree species propagated by seeds that lose their viability in a short time, making seed germination a key stage for the species recruitment. The objective of this study was to determine the cardinal temperatures and thermal time for seed germination of S. macrophylla; and its potential distribution under different climate change scenarios. Seeds were placed in germination chambers at constant temperatures from 5 to 45 °C and their thermal responses modelled using a thermal time approach. In addition, the potential biogeographic distribution was projected according to the Community Climate System Model version 4 (CCSM4). Germination rate reached its maximum at 37.3 ± 1.3 °C (To); seed germination decreased to near zero at 52.7 ± 2.2 °C (ceiling temperature, Tc) and at 12.8 ± 2.4 °C (base temperature, Tb). The suboptimal thermal time θ150 needed for 50% germination was ca. 190 °Cd, which in the current scenario is accumulated in 20 days. The CCSM4 model estimates an increase of the potential distribution of the species of 12.3 to 18.3% compared to the current scenario. The temperature had an important effect on the physiological processes of the seeds. With the increase in temperature, the thermal needs for germination are completed in less time, so the species will not be affected in its distribution. Although the distribution of the species may not be affected, it is crucial to generate sustainable management strategies to ensure its long-term conservation.

Argyrotoxins A-C, a trisubstituted dihydroisobenzofuranone, a tetrasubstituted 2-hydroxyethylbenzamide and a tetrasubstitutedphenyl trisubstitutedbutyl ether produced by Alternaria argyroxiphii, the causal agent of leaf spot on African mahogany trees (Khaya senegalensis).

Three previously undescribed metabolites named argyrotoxins A-C, were isolated, together with the well known porritoxinol, its closely related phthalide, a phthalide derivative, zinniol, alternariol and its 4-methyl ether from Alternaria argyroxiphii E.G. Simmons & Aragaki, the causal agent of leaf spot on African mahogany trees, Khaya senegalensis A. Juss. (Meliaceae). The known compounds were identified comparing their physical and spectroscopic properties to those previously reported in literature. Argyrotoxins A-C were characterized essentially by NMR (1H, 13C, COSY, HSQC, HMBC and NOESY NMR spectra) and HRESIMS spectra as 4-(7-methoxy-6-methyl-3-oxo-1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuran-5-yloxy)-2-methyl-butyric acid, 5-but-2-enyloxy-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-hydroxymethyl-3-methoxy-4-methyl-benzamide and 1-(5-(hydroxymethyl)-3-methoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)-2-methylphenoxy)-3-methylbutane-2,3-diol, respectively. The absolute configuration of argyrotoxin A was determined through electronic circular dichroism, by applying the biphenyl chiroptical probe approach. The phytoxicity of all metabolites isolated was evaluated by leaf puncture assay at concentration of 1 mg/mL. Zinniol proved to be the most active compound causing necrotic lesions on young leaves of Hedera elix L., Phaseolus vulgaris L. and Quercus ilex L. Argirotoxins A and B were found active, to a minor extent, on Phaseolus vulgaris L. leaves, while porritoxinol exhibited activity on holm oak leaves. The other secondary metabolites herein reported for A. argyroxiphii were inactive.

Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae: Sapindales): Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and toxicology.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Khaya grandifoliola is a well-known tree species in Africa with a conservation status of 'vulnerable' due to its overexploitation by the wood industry. Several studies have recorded numerous ethnobotanical uses of this plant, as well as the scientific validation of the efficacy of extracts from different plant parts used for the treatment of various ailments. However, this useful information is scattered throughout the literature and thus there is no opportunity to identify the existing knowledge gaps. AIM OF THE STUDY: This review aims to highlight the medicinal importance of Khaya grandifoliola including its known phytochemistry, biological activities and toxicology, to encourage a refocused conservation strategy since all current efforts are geared towards maintaining its continuous supply to the wood industry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Articles on K. grandifoliola were sourced from online databases such as Google Scholar, Medicine, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, SciFinder and other science journal websites up to May 2020. The search was conducted using various combinations of keywords such as biotechnological uses, biological activity, ethnobotany, ethnomedicine, indigenous uses, pharmacological activity, phytochemistry, proximate composition, toxicity, and traditional uses of K. grandifoliola. All downloaded articles were screened to determine their relevance to the scope of the review and the selected papers were included. RESULTS: The review revealed a host of ethnomedicinal uses such as anticancer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-sickling, anti-ulcerogenic, and hepatoprotective, many of which are supported by scientific data. More importantly, toxicity tests revealed that many of the extracts are safe at various therapeutic doses. Important knowledge gaps that should be explored include phytochemical characterization and validation of some ethnobotanical claims on the folkloric usage of the plant. CONCLUSIONS: Notwithstanding the importance of K. grandifoliola in the wood industry, this review reveals that its use as a medicine is equally important. Its medicinal uses are also well supported with scientific studies as well as favourable toxicological studies though some scientific knowledge gaps require further studies.

The formation of interlocked grain in African mahogany (Khaya spp.) analysed by X-ray computed microtomography.

Interlocked grain occurs when the orientation of xylem fibres oscillates, alternating between left- and right-handed spirals in successive wood layers. The cellular mechanisms giving rise to interlocked grain, thought to involve the slow rotation of fusiform initials within the vascular cambium, remain unclear. We suggest that observations of wood structure at the cellular level, but over large areas, might reveal these mechanisms. We assayed timber from several commercially important tropical angiosperms from the genus Khaya (African mahogany) that exhibit interlocked grain using X-ray computed microtomography followed by orthogonal slicing and image processing in ImageJ. Reconstructed tangential longitudinal sections were processed with the ImageJ directionality plug-in to directly measure fibre orientation and showed grain deviations of more than 10° from vertical in both left- and right-handed directions. Grain changed at locally constant rates, separated by locations where the direction of grain change sharply reversed. Image thresholding and segmentation conducted on reconstructed cross sections allowed the identification of vessels and measurement of their location, with vessel orientations then calculated in Matlab and, independently, in recalculated tangential longitudinal sections with the directionality plug-in. Vessel orientations varied more than fibre orientations, and on average deviated further from vertical than fibres at the locations where the direction of grain change reversed. Moreover, the reversal location for vessels was shifted ~400 µm towards the pith compared with the fibres, despite both cell types arising from the same fusiform initials within the vascular cambium. We propose a simple model to explain these distinct grain patterns. Were an auxin signal to control both the reorientation of cambial initials, as well as coordinating the end-on-end differentiation and linkage of xylem vessel elements, then it would be possible for fibres and vessels to run at subtly different angles, and to show different grain reversal locations.

Genetic diversity of Fusarium pseudocircinatum in the central western region of Mexico: the case of big-leaf mahogany malformation disease.

Fusarium pseudocircinatum is the main causal agent of big-leaf mahogany malformation disease (BLMMD) of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) in Mexico. Although, BLMMD is the most important disease for this high-value timber species, there is a lack of information on the genetic variation present in geographically diverse isolates of F. pseudocircinatum. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of populations of F. pseudocircinatum causing BLMMD in the central western region of Mexico. A total of 611 big-leaf mahogany trees were inspected at eight sites in four states (Colima, Guerrero, Jalisco and Michoacán); of these, 42.7% showed malformation symptoms similar to those of BLMMD. Of 374 Fusarium isolates that were recovered, 277 were identified as F. pseudocircinatum, 56 were F. mexicanum, and 41 were Fusarium spp. An ISSR analysis of the F. pseudocircinatum isolates generated 51 bands of which 38 were polymorphic (76.8%) with a mean of 17 bands per primer. A total of 87 multilocus genotypes (MLGs) were identified. Nei's genetic diversity analysis showed that the isolates had a high genetic diversity average (0.147), with values ranging from 0.070 to 0.365 depending of the geographical location. An analysis of molecular variance revealed that the variation within the populations was low (27.36%), while the variation within MLGs was significant (72.64%), indicating genetic flow. Overall, the genetic variability of F. pseudocircinatum populations was high and the MLGs from Colima (Colima) and Gabriel Zamora (Michoacán) were placed centrally, which possibly is evidence of ancestry and indicates its dispersion routes in the central western region of Mexico.

The recent use of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. as antidiabetes type 2 phytomedicine: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Natural resources provide more efficient and safer alternatives in managing diabetes compare to the synthetic oral anti diabetes (OAD). The plants not only have hypoglycemic effect, but also prevent its complications; in which no synthetic drugs provide of both properties. Among antidiabetes plants, mahogany seed (Swietenia macrophylla) has been used as traditional medicine in Indonesia and India, though most popular utilized as timber wood. METHODS: The present study was performed of chemotaxonomic approach to review its phytochemical and anti-diabetic properties of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq seed/bark/leaves. The qualitative systematic review (SR) was carried out by analysing indexed journals and peer reviewed of Swietenia and Swietenia spp from Scopus, PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and Research Gate. Data selection criteria are accordance to botany, phytochemistry, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical test of related subject. The keywords used for the search in the databases were Swietenia, Swietenia mahagony, diabetes, and diabetes plants. RESULTS: Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. extracts have shown in vitro, in vivo and limited clinically test of its anti-diabetic properties. Ethanolic/methanolic/aqueous/petroleum/n-hexane extracts of mahagonis's seed/bark or leaves have anti-diabetic activities comparable to the synthetic drug and observed no to relatively mild toxic effect. The hypoglycemic mechanism suggested via reducing blood glucose level, restoring liver and ß-cells islet function (might) blocking epinephrine function, inhibiting of α-amylase and ß-glucosidase, antioxidant and antihiperlipidemia. Phytochemical compounds of S. mahagoni consist of the phenolics (flavonoids (swietemacrophyllanin, catechins and epichatechins) and tannins), triterpenoids and tetranortriterpenoids (limonoids: mahonin, secomahoganin, swietmanins, swiemahogins, swietenine and swietenolide), saponins and alkaloids which are known as anti-diabetic bioactive principles. CONCLUSION: S. mahagoni was potentially used and developed as an antidiabetes source. To use it as an antidiabetic further, more extensive clinical trials and biomarkers of active compounds determination are needed.

Estimación de la edad de Swietenia macrophylla (Meliaceae) a partir del diámetro normal en poblaciones del sureste mexicano

Introducción: Swietenia macrophylla King ("caoba") es la especie arbórea de mayor importancia comercial en el sureste mexicano y utilizada como guía en el manejo forestal, por lo que conocer su edad y tasas de crecimiento es fundamental para la sostenibilidad de los aprovechamientos maderables. Objetivos: Estimar laedad (E t ) a partir del método del 'tiempo de paso' (Tp) y calcular las tasas de crecimiento absoluto (TCA) y relativo (TCR) para Swietenia macrophylla en Quintana Roo, México. Métodos: Se ajustaron ecuaciones para calcular TCA y TCR con remediciones periódicas durante 15 años del diámetro normal (d) en 403 árboles de S. macrophylla en Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, México; también, se determinaron el Tp y la E t para el cálculo del incremento corriente anual (ICA) e incremento medio anual (IMA), y definir así los turnos comercial y técnico. Resultados: La máxima TCR se alcanzó a los 28 cm de d (0.015 cm año-1) (aplicación de aclareos), mientras que la mayor TCA (0.69 cm año-1) y menor Tp (3.5 años) a los 55 cm de d (turno comercial). El máximo ICA al considerar la E t fue de 1.43 cm en la categoría diamétrica de 50 cm, con un IMA de 0.67 cm año-1 a una edad de 75 años, mientras que el turno técnico (ICA = IMA) se alcanzó a los 96 años (incrementos de 0.78 cm año-1). Conclusiones: A través de mediciones periódicas del diámetro normal en S. macrophylla es posible obtener su edad, además los resultados pueden ser utilizados para elaborar programas de manejo y ejecutar prácticas silvícolas que propicien el incremento diamétrico en Quintana Roo.

Introduction: Swietenia macrophylla King (Mahogany) is the most commercially important tree species in Southeastern of Mexico and is used as a guide in forest management. Therefore, knowing its age and growth rates is essential for the sustainability of timber harvest. Objective: Estimate the age (Et) from the 'step time' (Tp) method and calculate the absolute (TCA) and relative (TCR) growth rates for Swietenia macrophylla in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Methods: Equations were adjusted to calculate TCA and TCR with periodic re-measured for 15 years of the normal diameter (d) in 403 S. macrophylla trees in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Tp and Et were determined for the calculation of the annual current increase (ICA) and average annual increase (IMA), to define the commercial and technical shifts. Results: The maximum TCR was reached at 28 cm of d (0.015 cm year-1) (thinning application), whereas the highest TCA (0.69 cm year-1) and lower Tp (3.5 years) at 55 cm of d (commercial shift). The maximum ICA when considering Et was 1.43 cm in the 50 cm of diametric category with an IMA of 0.67 cm year-1 at an age of 75 years, while the technical shift (ICA = IMA) was reached at 96 years (increments of 0.78 cm year-1). Conclusions: Through periodic measurements of the normal diameter in S. macrophylla it is possible to obtain its age, these results also can be used to elaborate management programs and apply silvicultural practices that propitiate the diametric increase in Quintana Roo.

Wastewater from swine farming in the growth and nutrition of Khaya senegalensis (DESR. ) A Juss seedlings / Água residuária da suinocultura no crescimento e nutrição de mudas de khaya senegalensis (DESR. ) a juss

This study evaluated the use of wastewater from swine farming in the growth and nutritional balance of Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. (African mahogany) seedlings. The experiment was setup in a shade house on the Professor Cinobelina Elvas Campus of the Federal University of Piauí, in Bom Jesus, in the State of Piauí, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomised, with five concentrations of swine farm wastewater (SFW) (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) added to the irrigation water. The growth and nutritional balance of the seedlings were evaluated 100 days after sowing, by measuring shoot height (H), stem diameter (SD), number of leaves (NL), total chlorophyll (TC), leaf area (LA), shoot dry weight (SDW) and root dry weight (RDW), and by calculating the total dry weight (TDW), leaf (LBA), stem (SBA), and root (RBA) biomass allocation, Dickson Quality Index (DQI) and average Nutritional Balance Index (NBIm). It was found that K. senegalensis seedlings responded to the SFW, showing the best results for growth and nutritional balance at concentrations of around 50%.

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar a utilização da água residuária da suinocultura no crescimento e no balanço nutricional de mudas de Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. (mogno-africano). O experimento foi instalado no Campus Profa. Cinobelina Elvas, Universidade Federal do Piauí, em Bom Jesus, PI, dentro de uma casa de sombra. O experimento foi implantado em delineamento inteiramentecasualizado, com cinco concentrações de água residuária de suinocultura (ARS) (0; 25; 50; 75 e 100%) na água de irrigação. O crescimento e balanço nutricional das mudas foram avaliados aos 100 dias após a semeadura, com a mensuração da altura da parte aérea (H), diâmetro do coleto (DC), número de folhas (NF), clorofila total (CT), área foliar (AF), massa seca da parte aérea (MSPA) e do sistema radicular (MSR) e calculadas a massa seca total (MST), as alocações de biomassa foliar (ABF), caule (ABC), raízes (ABR), o Índice de Qualidade de Dickson (IQD) e Índice de Balanço Nutricional médio (IBNm). Constatou-se que a as mudas de K. senegalensis responderam à ARS, apresentando os melhores resultados de crescimento e equilíbrio nutricional em concentrações em torno de 50%.

Growth and development of the Mahogany Glider (Petaurus gracilis).

The growth and development of the endangered Mahogany Glider (Petaurus gracilis) was monitored in a captive population at Burleigh Heads, Queensland, Australia. Video surveillance confirmed that the gestation period for this species was 16 days. Morphometric data and developmental milestones were recorded from 10 Mahogany Gliders from birth to weaning. Growth curves were developed for head length, ulna length, tail length, and body weight. Weekly inspections of female pouches revealed the young's eyelid margins were visible by Day 21, the first hair erupted on the bridge of the nose at Day 30, pigmentation of the body developed at Day 63, and they started detaching from the teat intermittently, and the body was covered in short fur by Day 70. The young were left in the nest alone from Days 84 to 87, their eyes opened between Days 84 and 94, and there was a rapid increase in length and density of fur from Day 98 onwards. At Days 101 to 105 of age the young left the nest box with its mother as back young. Weaning occurred from 184 to 187 days. Typically, the reproductive rate was two young per annum per pair, but one pair produced five young in 19 months. Females produced young from 12 months to 7 years of age, males up to 9.4 years of age. The average longevity of Mahogany Gliders in the studbook in 2018 was 11.6 years. This study provides data on the reproductive biology of the Mahogany Glider that will assist in its captive breeding, management, and conservation.

Use patterns, use values and management of Afzelia africana Sm. in Burkina Faso: implications for species domestication and sustainable conservation.

BACKGROUND: The lack of literature on the interactions between indigenous people and the valuable agroforestry trees hinder the promotion of sustainable management of plant resources in West African Sahel. This study aimed at assessing local uses and management of Afzelia africana Sm. in Burkina Faso, as a prerequisite to address issues of domestication and sustainable conservation. METHODS: One thousand forty-four peoples of seven dominant ethnic groups were questioned in 11 villages through 221 semi-structured focus group interviews. The surveys encompassed several rural communities living around six protected areas along the species distribution range. Questions refer mainly to vernacular names of A. africana, locals' motivations to conserve the species, the uses, management practices and local ecological knowledge on the species. Citation frequency was calculated for each response item of each questionnaire section to obtain quantitative data. The quantitative data were then submitted to comparison tests and multivariate statistics in R program. RESULTS: A. africana is a locally well-known tree described as a refuge of invisible spirits. Due to this mystery and its multipurpose uses, A. africana is conserved within the agroforestry systems. The species is widely and mostly used as fodder (87.55%), drugs (75.93%), fetish or sanctuary (70.95%), food (41.49%), and raw material for carpentry (36.19%) and construction (7.05%). While the uses as fodder, food and construction involved one organ, the leaves and wood respectively, the medicinal use was the most diversified. All tree organs were traditionally used in 10 medical prescriptions to cure about 20 diseases. The species use values differed between ethnic groups with lower values within the Dagara and Fulani. The findings reveal a total absence of specific management practices such as assisted natural regeneration, seeding, or transplantation of A. africana sapling. However, trees were permanently pruned and debarked by local people. Harvesting of barks mostly contributed to the decline of the species populations. Local people acknowledged declining populations of A. africana with lower densities within the agroecosystems. They also perceived between individuals, variations in the traits of barks, leaves, fruits and seeds. Significant differences were found between ethnic groups and gender regarding the species uses. Local knowledge on the species distribution differed between ethnic groups. CONCLUSION: This study showed the multipurpose uses of A. africana throughout Burkina Faso. The results provide relevant social and ecological indicators to all stakeholders and constitute a springboard towards the species domestication and the elaboration of efficient sustainable conservation plans.

Fagodisuasión de extractos deBrugmansia candida(Solanaceae) en larvas deHypsipyla grandella(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) / Phagodeterrence of extracts ofBrugmansia candida(Solanaceae) onHypsipyla grandella(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae

Resumen Hypsipyla grandellaes una plaga forestal clave en América Latina y el Caribe, donde ha impedido todo intento de establecer plantaciones comerciales de caobas (Swieteniaspp.) y cedros (Cedrelaspp.). En la búsqueda de métodos de manejo de sus larvas, que sean preventivos y rentables, así como basados en recursos de la flora tropical, fue evaluada la actividad fagodisuasiva del extracto crudo y de cuatro particiones fitoquímicas (agua, hexano, diclorometano y acetato de etilo) de la flor de reina de la noche,Brugmansia candida(Solanaceae). Se efectuaron bioensayos de laboratorio con concentraciones crecientes del extracto crudo (0.1; 0.3; 1.0; 3.2 y 10.0 % m/v) y con cada una de las particiones (según el rendimiento del proceso de particionamiento). Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completos al azar, con cuatro repeticiones, y se expusieron larvas de instar III de H. grandellaa discos de cedro amargo (Cedrela odorata) impregnados con el respectivo tratamiento, por 24 h. Se midió el porcentaje de consumo de cada disco. El extracto crudo y la partición de hexano, mostraron un evidente efecto fagodisuasivo a partir de concentraciones de 1.0 % y 0.122 % m/v, respectivamente. También se realizó un bioensayo para comparar una sola concentración (0.38 % m/v) del alcaloide escopolamina, el cual redujo en 90% el consumo con respecto a los testigos. Asimismo, se evaluó la mortalidad y los efectos subletales en larvas expuestas al extracto crudo, la partición de hexano y la escopolamina, pero no hubo evidencias de ellos, lo que confirmó su acción fagodisuasiva. Además, se realizó un tamizaje fitoquímico del extracto crudo, y mediante pruebas cualitativas se determinó que los alcaloides, taninos, triterpenos y cumarinas fueron los metabolitos secundarios más importantes. Finalmente, se confirmó la presencia de la escopolamina tanto en el extracto crudo como en la partición de hexano, mediante el método de cromatografía de gases acoplado a un espectrómetro de masas (GC-MS). Se recomienda preparar una formulación de escopolamina más algunos coadyuvantes, y evaluar su eficacia en condiciones de invernadero, como un primer paso para avanzar en el desarrollo de un fagodisuasivo comercial.

Abstract Hypsipyla grandella is a key forest pest in Latin America and the Caribbean, where it has precluded attempts to establish commercial plantations of mahoganies (Swieteniaspp.) and cedars (Cedrelaspp.). In the search for methods to manage its larvae, being both preventative and cost-effective, as well as based upon resources from tropical flora, the crude flower extract of angel's trumpet, Brugmansia candida, as well as four partitions thereof (water, hexane, dichlorometane, and ethyl acetate), were tested for phagodeterrence. Laboratory bioassays involved increasing concentrations of the crude extract (0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.2 and 10.0 % w/v) as well as each one of the partitions (in accordance to the yield obtained from the partitioning process). A randomized complete block design, with four replicates, was used. H. grandellainstar III larvae were exposed for 24 h to Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata) leaf discs dipped into the respective treatment, after which disc consumption was measured. Strong phagodeterrence was detected at concentrations as low as 1.0 % y 0.122 % w/v for the crude extract and the hexane partitions, respectively. In addition, a single bioassay was performed to compare a single concentration (0.38 % w/v) of the alkaloid scopolamine, which reduced consumption in 90 % with respect to the controls. Also, mortality and sublethal effects were assessed in larvae exposed to the crude extract, the hexane partition and scopolamine, with no evidence for them, which confirmed their phagodeterrence. Moreover, the crude extract was submitted to a phytochemical screening by means of a number of qualitative tests, which showed that alkaloids, tannins, triterpenes and cumarins were the most important secondary metabolites. Finally, the presence of scopolamine was confirmed in both the crude extract and the hexane partition, by means of the gas chromatography-spectrometry (GC-MS) analytical method. It is recommended to prepare a formulation of scopolamine plus some adjuvants, in order to test its effectiveness under greenhouse conditions, as a first step to advance in the development of a commercial phagodeterrent. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(1): 58-69. Epub 2018 March 01.

Tyrosine hydroxylase afferents to the interstitial nucleus of the posterior limb of the anterior commissure are neurochemically distinct from those projecting to neighboring nuclei.

The interstitial nucleus of the posterior limb of the anterior commissure (IPAC) is exclusively innervated by tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-IR) fibers as observed in the other nuclei of the rat forebrain such as the striatum and nucleus accumbens. Distinguishing TH-IR afferents to the IPAC from those projecting to neighboring nuclei has been difficult. However, we previously showed that the TH-IR fibers projecting to the IPAC were invulnerable to neurodegeneration in zitter mutant rats, whereas almost all TH-IR afferents fibers to the dorsolateral striatum were lost, indicating that these two groups of TH-IR afferents have distinct neurochemical properties. Here, to explore this observation further, we injected Fluorogold (FG) retrograde tracers to identify neurons projecting to the IPAC or dorsal striatum. We also determined the distribution of attractin mRNA and protein, causative factors for the pathological phenotypes of zitter mutant rats, within the normal rat midbrain. In rats injected with FG into the dorsal striatum, we detected many FG-positive neurons in the ventral aspect of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNC). In contrast, many FG-positive neurons were observed in the dorsal aspect of the SNC of rats injected with FG into the IPAC. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization studies of intact animals revealed that both attractin mRNA and protein were expressed at higher levels in the ventral aspect of the SNC, whereas both attractin mRNA and protein were expressed at lower levels in the dorsal aspect of the SNC. Taken together, these results indicate that TH-IR afferents to the IPAC have distinct neurochemical properties from those to the striatum and may account for the differential vulnerability to neurodegeneration observed in zitter mutant rats.

Preliminary observations on the age and growth of dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu) and mahogany snapper (Lutjanus mahogoni) from the Southeastern U.S.

Dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu Bloch and Schneider 1801) and mahogany snapper (Lutjanus mahogoni Cuvier 1828) are infrequently caught snappers in the southeastern U.S. primarily occurring off of southern Florida. The species were opportunistically sampled from commercial and recreational fisheries in the southeastern U.S. from 1979 to 2015. Fish were aged (56 dog snapper and 54 mahogany snapper) by counting opaque zones on sectioned sagittal otoliths. Otoliths of both species were easily interpretable and agreement between readers was acceptable. Analysis of otolith edge-type revealed that annuli formed between May and July on both species. Dog snapper ranged from 200-837 mm total length (TL) and ages 2-33, while mahogany snapper ranged from 270-416 mm TL and ages 2-18. The Von Bertalanffy growth equations were Lt  = 746(1-e(-0.20(t-0.32))) and Lt  = 334(1-e(0.31(t+1.19))) for dog snapper and mahogany snapper, respectively. The weight-length relations were W = 1.31 × 10-5L3.03(n = 78, r2 = 0.99) and W = 5.40 × 10-6L3.15(n = 79, r2 = 0.79) for dog snapper and mahogany snapper, respectively, where W = whole weight in grams.