Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of Chemically and Biologically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles.

Bacterial biofilms are a significant problem in the food industry, as they are difficult to eradicate and represent a threat to consumer health. Currently, nanoparticles as an alternative to traditional chemical disinfectants have garnered much attention due to their broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and low toxicity. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by a biological method using a Jacaranda mimosifolia flower aqueous extract and by a chemical method, and the factors affecting both syntheses were optimized. The nanoparticles were characterized by Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with a spherical and uniform shape. The antibacterial and antibiofilm formation activity was carried out on bacterial species of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus with the capacity to form biofilm. The minimum inhibitory concentration was 117.5 µg/mL for the chemical and 5.3 µg/mL for the biological nanoparticles. Both types of nanoparticles showed antibiofilm activity in the qualitative Congo red test and in the quantitative microplate test. Antibiofilm activity tests on fresh lettuce showed that biological nanoparticles decreased the population of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa by 0.63 and 2.38 logarithms, respectively, while chemical nanoparticles had little microbial reduction. In conclusion, the biologically synthesized nanoparticles showed greater antibiofilm activity. Therefore, these results suggest their potential application in the formulation of sanitizing products for the food and healthcare industries.

Jacaranda oil administration improves serum biomarkers and bioavailability of bioactive conjugated fatty acids, and alters fatty acid profile of mice tissues.

Jacaric acid, a conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) present in jacaranda oil (JO), is considered a potent anticarcinogenic agent. Several studies have focused on its biological effects, but the metabolism once consumed is not clear yet. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of two different daily doses of JO on serum parameters and fatty acid (FA) profile of mice tissues after 4 weeks of feeding. No significant changes on body weight gain, food intake, or tissue weight were determined after 0.7 or 2 ml/kg of JO supplementation compared to control animals. Significantly lower blood low-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (20 mg/dl) and glucose (~147-148 mg/dl) levels were detected in both oil-treated groups compared to control (31.2 and 165 mg/dl, respectively). Moreover, jacaric acid was partially converted into cis9, trans11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and thus further incorporated into tissues. Liver evidenced the highest total conjugated fatty acid content (1.1%-2.2%), followed by epididymal (0.7%-1.9%) and mesenteric (1.4%-1.8%) fat. Lower saturated and higher unsaturated fatty acid content was detected in both oil-treated groups compared to control. Our results support the safety of JO and its potential application with a functional or nutraceutical propose, by increasing human CLNA consumption and further availability of CLA.

Bioactivity of aqueous extract of Jacaranda spp. (Bignoniaceae) on Plutella xylostella L. 1758 (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) / Bioatividade do extrato aquoso de Jacaranda spp. (Bignoniaceae) em Plutella xylostella L. 1758 (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

The high consumption rate of vegetables stimulates the cultivation and increases the demand regarding the adequacy of the production processes. The attack of the pest Plutella xylostella causes high losses by reducing product quality, typifying a phytosanitary problem. This study aimed to verify the bioactivity of aqueous extracts of leaves of Jacaranda decurrens and Jacaranda mimosifolia at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15% on the insect. The choice test was carried out at the laboratory to determine the food effect of plant extracts and evaluate changes in the life cycle of insects exposed to active compounds through the analysis of biological parameters. Plant extracts of J. decurrens and J. mimosifolia presented with phagodeterrent classification in the choice experiments. The three J. decurrens extract concentrations promoted a prolongation of larval and pupal duration, while the duration of individuals treated with J. mimosifolia at 10% was significantly reduced. Occurred reduction in larval survival of individuals treated with aqueous extracts of J. decurrens and J. mimosifolia. Eggs from treatments with aqueous extract of J. decurrens and J. mimosifolia had reduced survival. Pupal survival of individuals treated with extract at 15% showed a significant reduction compared to the treatments at 5% and 10%. Pupae from the treatment with aqueous extract of Jacaranda mimosifolia showed a reduction in biomass in the treatment at 15% differing from the control e 5%. Thus, the aqueous extracts of the species J. decurrens and J. mimosifolia show insecticidal potential in the tests performed on P. xylostella.

O alto índice de consumo de hortaliças estimula o cultivo e aumenta a demanda quanto à adequação dos processos produtivos. O ataque da praga Plutella xylostella causa grandes perdas por reduzir a qualidade do produto, caracterizando um problema fitossanitário. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a bioatividade de extratos aquosos de folhas de Jacaranda decurrens e Jacaranda mimosifolia nas concentrações de 5, 10 e 15% sobre o inseto. O teste de escolha foi realizado em laboratório para determinar o efeito alimentar de extratos vegetais e avaliar alterações no ciclo de vida de insetos expostos a compostos ativos por meio da análise de parâmetros biológicos. Os extratos vegetais de J. decurrens e J. mimosifolia apresentaram classificação fagodeterrente nos experimentos de escolha. As três concentrações de extrato de J. decurrens promoveram um prolongamento da duração larval e pupal, enquanto a duração dos indivíduos tratados com J. mimosifolia a 10% foi significativamente reduzida. Ocorreu redução na sobrevivência larval de indivíduos tratados com extratos aquosos de J. decurrens e J. mimosifolia. Ovos dos tratamentos com extrato aquoso de J. decurrens e J. mimosifolia tiveram sobrevivência reduzida. A sobrevivência pupal dos indivíduos tratados com extrato a 15% apresentou redução significativa em relação aos tratamentos a 5% e 10%. Pupas do tratamento com extrato aquoso de J. mimosifolia apresentaram redução de biomassa no tratamento a 15% diferindo do controle e 5%. Assim, os extratos aquosos das espécies J. decurrens e J. mimosifolia apresentam potencial inseticida nos testes realizados em P. xylostella.

Jacaranda flower (Jacaranda mimosifolia) as an alternative for antioxidant and antimicrobial use.

Antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics is a serious health problem worldwide, for this reason, the search for natural agents with antimicrobial power against pathogenic microorganisms is of current importance. The objective of this work was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity (ABTS+ and DPPH), antimicrobial activity, and polyphenol compounds of methanolic and aqueous extracts of Jacaranda mimosifolia flowers. The antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 51299, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19115, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175, was determined using the Kirby Bauer technique. The results of polyphenolic compounds showed a high amount of total flavonoids in the methanolic and aqueous extracts (503.3 ± 86.5 and 245. 7 ± 27.8 mg Rutin Equivalents/g DW, respectively). Quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, and rutin were identified by the HPLC-DAD technique, while in the GC-MS analysis, esters, fatty acids, organic compounds, as well as monosaccharides were identified. Higher antioxidant capacity was detected by the ABTS technique (94.9% and 62.6%) compared to DPPH values (52.5% and 52.7 %) for methanolic and aqueous extracts, respectively. The methanolic extract showed a greater inhibitory effect on gram-positive bacteria, with a predominant higher inhibition percentage on Listeria monocytogenes and Streptococcus mutans (86% for both). In conclusion, Jacaranda flower extracts could be a natural antimicrobial and antioxidant alternative due to the considerable amount of polyphenolic compounds, and serve as a sustainable alternative for the isolation of active ingredients that could help in agriculture, aquaculture, livestock, pharmaceutics, and other industrial sectors, to remediate problems such as oxidative stress and antimicrobial abuse.

Production of jacaranda plantlets by minicutting / Produção de mudas de jacaranda por miniestaquia

The objective of this study was to investigate the production of jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia D. Don) plantlets by minicutting. For this, a mini-clonal hedge was established to supply sprouts for minicuttings. For adventitious rooting, the minicuttings were treated with hydroalcoholic solution of indolebutyric acid at concentrations of 0, 1000, and 2000 mg L-¹ and grown in a greenhouse. The survival of minicuttings was evaluated at 30, 60, and 90 days, and rooting, callus, sprouting, leaf area, root area, aerial dry mass, root dry mass, total dry mass, and aerial/root dry mass ratio were assessedat 90 days. The rooted minicuttings were treated with different volumes of nutrient solution (0, 25, and 50 mL) and were evaluated for survival, height, diameter, leaf area, root area, aerial dry mass, root dry mass, and aerial/root dry mass ratio of the plantlets after 30 days of cultivation in a shade house and full sunlight. Jacaranda can be established in a mini-clonal hedge for the production of shoots necessary for the preparation of minicuttings. The minicuttings are rooted in a greenhouse without use of indolebutyric acid. The plantlets produced can be acclimatized in a shade house and rustified in full sun. Jacaranda plantlets can be produced by minicuttings.

Este trabalho teve por objetivo estudar a produção de mudas de jacarandá (Jacaranda mimosifolia D. Don) por miniestaquia. Para isso, foi estabelecido um minijardim clonal para o fornecimento de brotações para a confecção de miniestacas. Para o enraizamento adventício, as miniestacas foram tratadas ou não com solução hidroalcoólica de ácido indolbutírico na concentração de 0, 1000 e 2000 mg L-¹ e cultivadas em casa de vegetação climatizada. A sobrevivência das miniestacas foi avaliada aos 30, 60 e 90 dias e o enraizamento, calos, brotação, área foliar, área de raiz, massa seca aérea, massa seca de raízes, massa seca total e massa seca aérea/raiz aos 90 dias. As miniestacas enraizadas foram tratadas com diferentes volumes de solução nutritiva (0, 25 e 50 mL) e avaliadas quanto à sobrevivência, altura, diâmetro, área foliar, área radicular, massa seca aérea, massa seca radicular e relação massa seca aérea/radicular das plantas após 30 dias de cultivo em casa de sombra e pleno sol. O jacarandá pode ser estabelecido em minijardim clonal para a produção de brotações necessárias para o preparo de miniestacas. As miniestacas enraízam em casa de vegetação e sem a necessidade de ácido indolbutírico. As mudas produzidas podem ser aclimatizadas em casa de sombra e rustificadas em pleno sol. Mudas de jacarandá podem ser produzidas por miniestaquia.

Production of jacaranda plantlets by minicutting / Produção de mudas de jacaranda por miniestaquia

The objective of this study was to investigate the production of jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia D. Don) plantlets by minicutting. For this, a mini-clonal hedge was established to supply sprouts for minicuttings. For adventitious rooting, the minicuttings were treated with hydroalcoholic solution of indolebutyric acid at concentrations of 0, 1000, and 2000 mg L-¹ and grown in a greenhouse. The survival of minicuttings was evaluated at 30, 60, and 90 days, and rooting, callus, sprouting, leaf area, root area, aerial dry mass, root dry mass, total dry mass, and aerial/root dry mass ratio were assessedat 90 days. The rooted minicuttings were treated with different volumes of nutrient solution (0, 25, and 50 mL) and were evaluated for survival, height, diameter, leaf area, root area, aerial dry mass, root dry mass, and aerial/root dry mass ratio of the plantlets after 30 days of cultivation in a shade house and full sunlight. Jacaranda can be established in a mini-clonal hedge for the production of shoots necessary for the preparation of minicuttings. The minicuttings are rooted in a greenhouse without use of indolebutyric acid. The plantlets produced can be acclimatized in a shade house and rustified in full sun. Jacaranda plantlets can be produced by minicuttings.(AU)

Este trabalho teve por objetivo estudar a produção de mudas de jacarandá (Jacaranda mimosifolia D. Don) por miniestaquia. Para isso, foi estabelecido um minijardim clonal para o fornecimento de brotações para a confecção de miniestacas. Para o enraizamento adventício, as miniestacas foram tratadas ou não com solução hidroalcoólica de ácido indolbutírico na concentração de 0, 1000 e 2000 mg L-¹ e cultivadas em casa de vegetação climatizada. A sobrevivência das miniestacas foi avaliada aos 30, 60 e 90 dias e o enraizamento, calos, brotação, área foliar, área de raiz, massa seca aérea, massa seca de raízes, massa seca total e massa seca aérea/raiz aos 90 dias. As miniestacas enraizadas foram tratadas com diferentes volumes de solução nutritiva (0, 25 e 50 mL) e avaliadas quanto à sobrevivência, altura, diâmetro, área foliar, área radicular, massa seca aérea, massa seca radicular e relação massa seca aérea/radicular das plantas após 30 dias de cultivo em casa de sombra e pleno sol. O jacarandá pode ser estabelecido em minijardim clonal para a produção de brotações necessárias para o preparo de miniestacas. As miniestacas enraízam em casa de vegetação e sem a necessidade de ácido indolbutírico. As mudas produzidas podem ser aclimatizadas em casa de sombra e rustificadas em pleno sol. Mudas de jacarandá podem ser produzidas por miniestaquia.(AU)

Phylogeny of the Neotropical tribe Jacarandeae (Bignoniaceae).

PREMISE: The tribe Jacarandeae includes Jacaranda (49 species) and Digomphia (3 species), two genera of trees and woody shrubs with Neotropical distribution. Jacarandeae is sister to the rest of the Bignoniaceae, but not much is known about interspecific and intergeneric relationships within this group. METHODS: We reconstructed the phylogeny of Jacarandeae using chloroplast (ndhF, rpl32-trnL, trnL-F) and nuclear (ETS, PPR62) markers. Evolutionary relationships within Jacarandeae were inferred using Bayesian, Maximum Likelihood, and species tree approaches. The resulting phylogenetic framework was used as the basis to interpret the evolution of key morphological character states (i.e., stamen and calyx traits) and revise the infra-generic classification of the group. RESULTS: Jacaranda and Digomphia belong to a well-supported clade, with Digomphia nested within Jacaranda. We propose the necessary taxonomic changes to recognize monophyletic taxa, including a broadly circumscribed Jacaranda divided into four sections: (1) Jacaranda sect. Nematopogon, species previously included in Digomphia and united by divided staminode apices and spathaceous calyces; (2) Jacaranda sect. Copaia, species with monothecal anthers and cupular calyces; (3) Jacaranda sect. Jacaranda, species with monothecal anthers and campanulate calyces; and (4) Jacaranda sect. Dilobos, species with dithecal anthers and cupular calyces, and including more than half of the species of the genus, all restricted to Brazil. CONCLUSIONS: As circumscribed here, Jacarandeae includes only a broadly defined Jacaranda divided into four sections. Each section is defined by a unique combination of anther and calyx morphologies.

Effects of Caatinga Plant Extracts in Planktonic Growth and Biofilm Formation in Ralstonia solanacearum.

This study describes the first antibiofilm and antibacterial screening for plants from Caatinga against Ralstonia solanacearum, a causal agent of bacterial wilt that presents serious difficulties in control. There were prepared 22 aqueous extracts of plants collected in the Vale do Catimbau-PE, Brazil. The potential antibacterial activity was evaluated by absorbance in OD600 and the antibiofilm activity through the crystal violet method, both of them performed in microplate against isolates of R. solanacearum biofilm formers. The results of the screening showed that Jacaranda rugosa presented antimicrobial activity higher than 90%, while Harpochilus neesianus and Myroxylon peruiferum presented antibiofilm activity higher than 50% for all tested isolates. However, Croton heliotropiifolius showed both the activities, being thus very promising for application in the control of this phytopathogen. The search for viable alternatives to the development of new bioactive compounds safe for the environment, humans, and animals from an adverse and scarce environment such as the Caatinga and encouraged us to find plants that produce effective metabolites against phytopathogenic microorganisms. This in vitro screening is important to guide the development of new products in addition to guide research studies of bioactive compounds.

Líquenes como bioindicadores de contaminación aérea en el corredor metropolitano de la ciudad de Guatemala / Lichens as bioindicators of air pollution in the metropolitan corridor Guatemala City

El incremento en las sustancias tóxicas a la atmósfera en la ciudad de Guatemala ha generado un empeoramiento paulatino de la calidad del aire. Por lo tanto, es necesaria la incorporación de un sistema de monitoreo que sea económico y que permita determinar las áreas de la ciudad con altos índices de contaminación aérea, para posteriormente tomar medidas adecuadas para su mitigación. En este sentido, el presente estudio categorizó los niveles de contaminación aérea por medio del Índice de Pureza Atmosférica (IPA), complementado con coberturas de cada especie, el Factor de Clasificación Ambiental (ECF) y el cambio en la diversidad de líquenes en árboles de jacaranda en 32 puntos del corredor metropolitano en la ciudad de Guatemala. Los resultados reportan 16 familias, 23 géneros y 65 especies de líquenes, de las cuales 26 son nuevos registros para el país y 5 para la ciudad. Los valores de IPA variaron de 4.5 a 25.5 indicando homogeneidad en los índices de contaminación aérea a lo largo del corredor metropolitano. En los puntos P5 Instituto Normal para Señoritas Centro América (INCA) y P13 (Parroquia Santa Marta) se obtuvieron los menores valores de IPA por lo que son los puntos con mayor grado de contaminación aérea; y los puntos P28 (Universidad Francisco Marroquín) y P21 (Avenida las Américas 1) obtuvieron los mayores siendo las áreas menos contaminadas. La incorporación del valor de cobertura al IPA, permite categorizar las áreas a una escala más fina, dándole mayor peso a especies toxitolerantes y toxisensibles. Estos resultados evidencian que los líquenes pueden complementar mediciones físicoquímicas de contaminación aérea, especialmente en puntos en donde no se cuenta con equipo para ello y pueden indicar lugares con problemas ambientales que necesiten investigación instrumental, como los puntos P5 y P13. Así mismo, se proponen 10 especies foliosas de líquenes para ser utilizadas como indicadoras de contaminación aérea en futuras investigaciones. Palabras clave: Líquenes, Índice de Pureza Atmonsférica, Factor de Clasificación Ambiental, bioindicador,

The increase of toxic substances into the atmosphere in Guatemala City has led to a progressive deterioration of the air quality. Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate an economic monitoring system that is able to identify the areas of the city with the highest levels of air pollution, and after that, be able to take the appropriate mitigation measures according to it. In this regard, this study categorized the levels of air pollution through the Index of Atmospheric Purity (IAP) complemented with coverage of each specie, the Environmental Classification Factor (ECF) and the change in diversity of lichens on Jacaranda trees in 32 points of metropolitan corridor of Guatemala City. The result reports 16 families, 23 genera and 65 species of lichens, whose 26 are new records for the country, and 5 for the city. IAP rate varied from 4.5 to 25.5, indicating that the metropolitan corridor is homogeneous regarding to high levels of air pollution. In points P5 (INCA) and P13 (Parish Church Parroquia Santa Marta) the lower rate of IAP were found, meaning that these are the points with the higher degree of air pollution; and points P28 (Marroquín University) and P21 (Avenida las Americas 1) obtained the highest degree, being the least polluted areas. The incorporation of the value of coverage to the IAP allows categorizing areas at a finer scale, giving more importance to toxitolerant and toxisensitive species. These results demonstrate that lichens can complement physical-chemical measurements of air pollution, especially in places where there is no equipment for it and it and therefore could indicate places with environmental problems that may need instrumental research, such as points P5 and P13. Furthermore, 10 micro lichen species are proposed to be used as air pollution indicators in future researches.

New jacaranone glucoside from Jacaranda oxyphylla leaves.

Jacaranda oxyphylla Cham. is popularly known as 'caroba-de-São-Paulo' and it is used in traditional medicine for microbial infections. A new phytoquinoid (α/ß-glucoside-4-phenylacetate-6-(1-hydroxy-4-oxo-2,5-cyclohexadiene-1-acetate) (1) was isolated from J. oxyphylla leaves, together with three known compounds: quercetin-3-O-ß-d-galactoside (2), verbascoside (3) and polystyrene (4). Their chemical structures were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques and by comparison with the related known compounds. In addition, it was found a pronounced acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity for the quinoid 1 (100.0 ± 0.8%) and phenolic compounds 2 and 3 (99.9 ± 0.7 and 99.3 ± 0.5%, respectively), if compared to the standard eserine (92.7 ± 0.4%), that was analysed by a microplate spectrophotometer.

Antioedematogenic activity, acetylcholinesterase inhibition and antimicrobial properties of Jacaranda oxyphylla.

Jacaranda oxyphylla Cham. (Bignoniaceae) is a shrub found in the Brazilian cerrado and used in folk medicine to treat microbial infections. The aim of this study was to carry out a phytochemical screening and evaluate antioedematogenic, antimicrobial and antiacetylcholinesterase properties of J. oxyphylla crude extracts. All extracts analysed showed presence of terpenoids, which are potentially active chemical substances. A high AChE inhibitory activity for hexane extract from leaves and for the extracts from twigs was found. Ethanol extract from leaves of J. oxyphylla showed activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. This extract was also effective in inhibiting the stages of inflammation evaluated. Biological investigation and phytochemical screening of J. oxyphylla extracts provided additional evidence of its traditional medicinal value.

Produtividade de vinagreira, pimenta rosa e carobinha cultivadas em sucessão a mucuna preta e feijão de porco / Productivity of roselle, Brazilian peppertree, and carobinha grown in succession to black velvet bean and jack bean

RESUMO O uso de adubos verdes e/ou de plantas de cobertura é uma técnica que vem sendo difundida para o cultivo de espécies medicinais, por garantir a sustentabilidade do solo agrícola, ser flexível em seu uso e por melhorar a atividade biológica do solo. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o uso de culturas de cobertura para incrementar a produção de massa de plantas de vinagreira, pimenta rosa e carobinha. Foram avaliadas duas espécies de leguminosas tropicais (mucuna preta e feijão de porco) como cobertura do solo e uma testemunha (sem cultura de cobertura) e três espécies medicinais (vinagreira, pimenta rosa e carobinha). O experimento foi arranjado em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, tendo nas parcelas as coberturas vegetais e nas subparcelas, as plantas medicinais. As plantas para a cobertura vegetal foram propagadas por semeadura direta no local de cultivo, enquanto as medicinais foram transplantadas diretamente entre a palhada da cobertura vegetal. A produção da mucuna preta foi de 8,37 t ha-1 de massa seca e do feijão de porco, de 14,37 t ha-1 de massa seca. O uso das culturas de cobertura contribuiu para uma maior biomassa microbiana do solo. As produções de massas frescas de folhas, caules e frutos de vinagreira e de frutos da pimenta rosa foram maiores quando cultivadas em sucessão às coberturas vegetais do solo, independente da espécie. As produções da carobinha foram semelhantes quando cultivadas em áreas com ou sem a cobertura. Visando à maior produtividade da vinagreira e pimenta rosa, são indicadas as culturas antecessoras feijão de porco e mucuna preta.

ABSTRACT The use of green manure and/or cover crops is a technique that has been widespread for the cultivation of medicinal species, since it ensures the sustainability of agricultural soil, is flexible in its use, and improves biological activity in the soil. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of cover crops to increase biomass production of roselle, Brazilian peppertree, and carobinha plants. Two species of tropical legumes (black velvet bean and jack bean) were evaluated as ground covers, and also assessed were one control plot (without cover crops) and three medicinal species (roselle, Brazilian peppertree, and carobinha). The experiment was arranged in a split-plot design, where the plots had cover crops and the subplots contained the medicinal plants. The plants for the cover crop were propagated by direct sowing in the growing site, while the medicinal ones were transplanted directly between the cover crop. The dry mass production of the velvet beans and jack beans were 8.37 t ha-1 and 14.37 t, respectively. The use of cover crops contributed to the increased microbial biomass of the soil. The production of dry mass of leaves, stems, and fruits of roselle and fruits of Brazilian peppertree were higher when grown in succession to the crop cover for the soil, regardless of the species. The production of carobinha was similar when grown in areas with or without the cover. To increase the yield of roselle and Brazilian peppertree, preceding crops of jack bean and black velvet bean are recommended.

Germinación de semillas de cuatro especies arbóreas del bosque seco tropical del Valle del Cauca, Colombia / Seed germination of four tree species from the tropical dry forest of Valle del Cauca, Colombia

The ecological restoration strategies for highly threatened ecosystems such as the tropical dry forest, depend on the knowledge of limiting factors of biological processes for the different species. Some of these include aspects such as germination and seed longevity of typical species present in those forests. In this study, we evaluated the effect of light and temperature on seed germination of two Fabaceae (Samanea saman and Jacaranda caucana) and two Bignoniaceae (Pithecellobium dulce and Tabebuia rosea) species having potential use in restoration, and we analyzed the seed storage behavior of these species for a three months period. To study the light effect, four levels of light quality on seeds were used (photoperiod of 12 hours of white light, darkness and light enriched in red and far-red, both for an hour each day), and we combined them with three levels of alternated temperatures (20/25, 20/30 and 25/30°C-16/8h). For the storage behavior, two levels of seed moisture content particular for each species were used (low: 3.5-6.1% and high: 8.3-13.8%), with three storage temperatures (20, 5 and -20°C) and two storage times (one and three months). The criterion for germination was radicle emergence which was measured in four replicates per treatment, and was expressed as percentage of germination (PG). There were significant differences in germination of Samanea saman and Jacaranda caucana among light and temperature treatments, with the lowest value in darkness treatments, whereas germination of Pithecellobium dulce and Tabebuia rosea did not differ between treatments (PG>90%). The most suitable temperature regime to promote germination in all species was 25/30°C. These four species showed an orthodox seed storage behavior. We concluded that seeds of P. dulce, J. caucana and T. rosea did not have an apparent influence of all light conditions tested in their germination response, which might confer advantages in colonization and establishment processes, while S. saman did not germinate well in darkness. We suggest the use of seeds of P. dulce, J. caucana and T. rosea in ecological restoration processes, due to their tolerance and germination under a wide range of temperature and light conditions. Futhermore, seeds of S. saman might be used in open areas such as forest gaps.

Las estrategias de restauración ecológica en ecosistemas altamente amenazados como el bosque seco tropical, dependen del conocimiento de factores limitantes de procesos biológicos, como la germinación y la longevidad de semillas de especies típicas de los mismos. En este estudio se evaluó el efecto de la luz y la temperatura en la germinación de semillas de dos especies de Fabaceae y dos de Bignoniaceae potencialmente útiles para restauración, y se determinó su comportamiento en el almacenamiento. Para el primer objetivo, se utilizaron cuatro niveles de calidad lumínica (fotoperiodo con 12 horas de luz, oscuridad y estímulos de luz enriquecida en rojo y luz enriquecida en rojo lejano, ambas por una hora), combinados con tres niveles de temperaturas alternadas (20/25, 20/30 y 25/30°C - 16/8h). Para el segundo objetivo, se utilizaron dos niveles de contenido de humedad de las semillas, con tres niveles de temperatura de almacenamiento (20, 5 y -20°C) y dos tiempos de almacenamiento (1 y 3 meses). La variable de respuesta para ambos experimentos fue el número de semillas germinadas, expresado en porcentaje (PG). Samanea saman y Jacaranda caucana presentaron un PG significativamente diferente entre los tratamientos lumínicos, con el valor menor en la oscuridad, mientras Pithecellobium dulce y Tabebuia rosea no presentaron diferencias significativas entre tratamientos (PG>90%). La respuesta a la temperatura mostró que 25/30°C es el régimen más adecuado para promover la germinación de la mayoría de las especies. Las semillas de las cuatro especies evaluadas presentaron un comportamiento ortodoxo en el almacenamiento. Se concluye que las semillas de P. dulce, J. caucana y T. rosea son indiferentes a las condiciones de luz y temperatura probadas, confiriéndoles ciertas ventajas en procesos de colonización y establecimiento frente a S. saman, cuya germinación no se ve favorecida en la oscuridad. Se sugiere el uso de semillas de P. dulce, J. caucana y T. rosea en proyectos de restauración ecológica del bosque seco Tropical, debido a su tolerancia y germinación en condiciones ambientales con intervalos amplios de temperatura y luminosidad. Mientras que, semillas de S. saman podrían ser usadas en sitios abiertos como claros de bosques.

Farmacologia e fitoquímica de extratos e formulações de Jacaranda decurrens Cham., Jacaranda caroba (Vell.) DC. e Piper umbellatum L / Pharmacology and phytochemistry of extracts and formulations from Jacaranda decurrens Cham., Jacaranda caroba (Vell.) DC. and Piper umbellatum L

Jacaranda decurrens Cham., Jacaranda caroba (Vell.) DC. e Piper umbellatum L. são plantas nativas do Brasil, presentes no estado de São Paulo, com relatos de uso popular para atividade antiúlcera. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a atividade antiúlcera de J. caroba, J. decurrens e formulações de nanocápsulas contendo P. umbellatum. Também pretendeu-se caracterizar a fitoquímica de tais formulações e extratos. Adicionalmente, foi avaliada a toxicidade aguda e subaguda de J. caroba. Os extratos de Jacaranda apresentaram compostos fenólicos em seus perfis cromatográficos obtidos por CCD e CLAE, característicos para cada espécie. Os diferentes extratos de J. caroba variaram sua composição química conforme a procedência e idade da planta. As espécies J. decurrens e J. caroba de três diferentes regiões não apresentaram ação antiúlcera aguda em ratos em modelo de indução por etanol acidificado, embora o extrato e as frações de J. caroba apresentaram potencial atividade anti Helicobacter pylori, com CIM variando entre 125 e 1.000 µg/mL. O extrato de J. caroba não promoveu sintomas de toxicidade aguda e subaguda em ratos. A DL50 observada foi maior que 5.000 mg/kg. Não foram relatadas alterações significativas na aparência macroscópica e peso dos órgãos, porém houve indicação de atividade mutagênica em teste de Ames na linhagem TA98 de S. typhimurium, o qual apresentou uma tendência dose-resposta para concentrações entre 7,5 e 15,0 mg/placa após ativação metabólica (S9). A formulação de nanocápsulas de poli-ε- caprolactona com extrato de P. umbellatum apresentou partículas com diâmetro médio de 181,6 ± 0,9 nm e potencial zeta de -31 ± 4 mV. Através de análise por CLAE observou-se maior eficiência de encapsulamento para a porção mais apolar da fração, enquanto que os compostos mais polares ficaram dispersos no meio. As nanocápsulas poliméricas apresentaram atividade gastroprotetora mesmo sem a adição de ativos e tiveram sua atividade aumentada pela fração clorofórmica de P. umbellatum

Jacaranda decurrens Cham., Jacaranda caroba (Vell.) DC. and Piper umbellatum L. are native plants in Brazil, present in the state of São Paulo, with popular usage reports for anti-ulcer activity. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-ulcer activity of J. caroba, J. decurrens and nanocapsules formulations containing P. umbellatum. Also, we intended to characterize the phytochemistry of such formulations and extracts. Additionally, we evaluated the acute and subacute toxicity of J. caroba. Extracts from Jacaranda presented phenolic compounds in their chromatographic profiles obtained by TLC and HPLC, with variations between species. Samples of J. caroba extracts showed different chemical composition according to the origin and age of the plant. The species J. decurrens and J. caroba from three different regions showed no acute anti-ulcer action when tested in rats by acidified ethanol induction model. However, extract and fractions from J. caroba showed potential anti Helicobacter pylori activity, with MIC ranging from 125 and 1,000 ug/mL. J. caroba extract did not cause symptoms of acute and subacute toxicity in rats. The DL50 was determined above 5,000 mg/kg. Also, there were no significant changes to the macroscopic appearance of organs or changes in their weights. Meanwhile, an indication of mutagenic activity was observed in the Ames test. The TA98 strain of S. typhimurium, showed a tendency of dose-response for concentrations between 7.5 and 15.0 mg/plate after metabolic activation (S9). The nanocapsules formulation of poly-ε-caprolactone containing P. umbellatum extract had an average particle diameter of 181.6 ± 0.9 nm and zeta potential of -31 ± 4 mV. HPLC analysis showed better entrapping efficiency for the more apolar portion of the fraction, while the more polar compounds were dispersed in the medium. The polymeric nanocapsules showed gastroprotective activity even without the addition of active molecules and had their activity increased by chloroform fraction of P. umbellatum

Antileishmanial activity and cytotoxicity of Brazilian plants.

Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem, and the alarming spread of parasite resistance has increased the importance of discovering new therapeutic products. The present study aimed to investigate the in vitro leishmanicidal activity from 16 different Brazilian medicinal plants. Stationary-phase promastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis and murine macrophages were exposed to 44 plant extracts or fractions for 48 h at 37°C, in order to evaluate their antileishmanial activity and cytotoxicity, respectively. The most potent extracts against L. amazonensis were the hexanic extract of Dipteryx alata (IC50 of 0.08 µg/mL), the hexanic extract of Syzygium cumini (IC50 of 31.64 µg/mL), the ethanolic and hexanic extracts of leaves of Hymenaea courbaril (IC50 of 44.10 µg/mL and 35.84 µg/mL, respectively), the ethanolic extract of H. stignocarpa (IC50 of 4.69 µg/mL), the ethanolic extract of Jacaranda caroba (IC50 of 13.22 µg/mL), and the ethanolic extract of J. cuspidifolia leaves (IC50 of 10.96 µg/mL). Extracts of D. alata and J. cuspidifolia presented higher selectivity index, with high leishmanicidal activity and low cytotoxicity in the mammalian cells. The capacity in treated infected macrophages using the extracts and/or fractions of D. alata and J. cuspidifolia was also analyzed, and reductions of 95.80%, 98.31%, and 97.16%, respectively, in the parasite burden, were observed. No nitric oxide (NO) production could be observed in the treated macrophages, after stimulation with the extracts and/or fractions of D. alata and J. cuspidifolia, suggesting that the biological activity could be due to mechanisms other than macrophage activation mediated by NO production. Based on phytochemistry studies, the classes of compounds that could contribute to the observed activities are also discussed. In conclusion, the data presented in this study indicated that traditional medicinal plant extracts present effective antileishmanial activity. Future studies could focus on the identification and purification of the antileishmanial compounds within these plants for analysis of their in vivo antileishmanial activity.

Análise fitoquímica e atividade antimicobacteriana de extratos metanólicos de Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart. (Bignoniaceae) / Phytochemical analysis and antimycobacterial activity of methanol extracts from Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart. (Bignoniaceae)

Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart., conhecida popularmente como "caroba", "jacarandá" ou "bolacheira", é utilizada medicinalmente para o tratamento da sífilis e da gonorréia. A atividade antimicobacteriana dessa espécie foi avaliada em ensaios in vitro com os extratos metanólicos das cascas e folhas, segundo o Método Analítico Alamar Blue (MABA). Os valores de concentração inibitória mínima para os extratos metanólicos das cascas e das folhas de J. cuspidifolia foram iguais a CIM = 250 μg mL-1 para ambos os extratos. A análise fitoquímica, por Cromatografia em Camada Delgada de gel de sílica, dos extratos metanólicos das cascas e folhas revelou a presença de taninos, flavonóides, terpenos, cumarinas e esteróides. A análise dos perfis dos extratos metanólicos por Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Eficiência de Fase Reversa registrou a presença de compostos fenólicos derivados do verbascosídeo sugerindo a provável responsabilidade pela ação antimicobacteriana.

Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart., popularly known as "caroba", "jacaranda" or "bolacheira", is used as medicine for the treatment of syphilis and gonorrhea. The antimycobacterial activity of this species was assessed by means of in vitro assays with methanol extracts of barks and leaves according to the Microplate Alamar Blue Assay (MABA). The minimal inhibitory concentration values for methanol extracts of barks and leaves from J. cuspidifolia were MIC = 250 μg mL-1 for both extracts. Phytochemical analysis, by Thin Layer Chromatography on silica gel, of methanol extracts of barks and leaves revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, terpenes, cumarins and steroids. Analysis of the profiles of methanol extracts by High Performance Liquid Chromatography - Reversed Phase recorded the presence of phenolic compounds derivatives of verbascoside, suggesting their probable responsibility for the antimycobacterial action.

Produção de mudas de carobinha (Jacaranda decurrens Cham. ) em sistema de imersão temporária com biorreatores do tipo R.I.T.A. / "Carobinha" seedling production in a temporary immersion system with R.I.T.A. bioreactors

O objetivo deste trabalho foi averiguar a melhor densidade de explantes e o melhor tipo de sistema de cultivo visando desenvolver um protocolo de micropropagação de baixo custo para a Carobinha. Foram realizados experimentos de multiplicação in vitro com quatro tipos de frascos: R.I.T.A. (50 explantes/frasco), erlenmayer, (50 explantes/frasco), potes tipo maionese (6 explantes/frasco) e cubetas (1 explante/frasco). O co-cultivo de explantes, tanto em meio sólido quanto em meio líquido (R.I.T.A.), promoveu maiores taxas de explantes com brotação e de sobrevivência. O sistema de imersão temporária proporcionou melhores índices de desenvolvimento, brotação, sobrevivência e altura dos explantes. Concluímos que biorreatores podem ser utilizados eficientemente para a micropropagação de carobinha.

The aim of this study was to identify the best explant density and the best cultivation system with the goal of developing a micropropagation protocol of low cost for "carobinha" (Jacaranda decurrens CHAM.). Experiments of in vitro multiplication were carried out using four flask types: R.I.T.A. (50 explants/flask), Erlenmeyer (50 explants/flask), mayonnaise pots (6 explants/flask) and cuvettes (1 explant/flask). The co-cultivation of explants, in both solid and liquid medium (R.I.T.A.), led explants to show higher sprouting and survival rates. The temporary immersion system provided better rates of development, sprouting, survival and height of explants. We concluded that bioreactors may be efficiently used for the micropropagation of "carobinha".

Germinação de sementes de Dalbergia nigra (Vell) Fr Al / Germination of Dalbergia nigra (Vell) Fr Al. seeds

Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All., conhecida popularmente como jacarandá -da-bahia, é uma espécie bastante conhecida pela exploração da sua madeira. Foi realizado um experimento no Laboratório de Análises de Sementes (CCA/UFPB) Areia, Estado da Paraíba, com o objetivo de determinar metodologia adequada para a condução de testes de germinação e vigor com sementes de D. nigra. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 2 x 7, sendo duas temperaturas (25 e 20-30°C) e sete substratos (entre areia, entre vermiculita, bioplant®, plantmax ®, entre e sobre papel mata-borrão e papel toalha), com quatro repetições de 25 sementes cada. As características avaliadas foram: germinação (%), primeira contagem de germinação (%), índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. As melhores combinações para condução de testes de germinação e vigor com sementes de D. nigra foram: a temperatura de 25°C e os substratos entre vermiculita, sobre papel mata-borrão e papel toalha (organizado na forma de rolo); A temperatura de 20-30°C os substratos Bioplant® e o Plantmax®.

Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All., known popularly as jacarandá-da-bahia, it is a plentiful species known for the exploration of its wood. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Seed Analysis (CCA/UFPB), in Areia, Paraíba State, with the objective of determining appropriate methodology for testing germination and vigor of D. nigra seeds. The experiment was carried out in an entirely randomized design in a 2 x 7 factorial scheme, with 2 temperatures (25 and 20- 30ºC) and 7 substrates (between sand, between vermiculite, Bioplant®, Plantmax®, between and on paper blotting paper, and towel paper), with four replications with 25 seeds each. The evaluated characteristics were: germination (%), first germination count (%), germination speed index (GSI), length and dry mass of seedlings. The best combinations for conducting germination and vigor tests with seeds of D. nigra were: temperature of 25°C and the substrate between vermiculite, on paper blotting paper and paper towel (roll); temperature of 20-30°C the substrate Bioplant® and Plantmax®.

Germination of Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All. seeds - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.5834 / Germinação de sementes de Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All. - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.5834

Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All., known popularly as jacarandá-da-bahia, it is a plentiful species known for the exploration of its wood. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Seed Analysis (CCA/UFPB), in Areia, Paraíba State, with the objective of determining appropriate methodology for testing germination and vigor of D. nigra seeds. The experiment was carried out in an entirely randomized design in a 2 x 7 factorial scheme, with 2 temperatures (25 and 20-30ºC) and 7 substrates (between sand, between vermiculite, Bioplant®, Plantmax®, between and on paper blotting paper, and towel paper), with four replications with 25 seeds each. The evaluated characteristics were: germination (%), first germination count (%), germination speed index (GSI), length and dry mass of seedlings. The best combinations for conducting germination and vigor tests with seeds of D. nigra were: temperature of 25C and the substrate between vermiculite, on paper blotting paper and paper towel (roll); temperature of 20-30C the substrate Bioplant® and Plantmax®.

Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All., conhecida popularmente como jacarandá-da-bahia, é uma espécie bastante conhecida pela exploração da sua madeira. Foi realizado um experimento no Laboratório de Análises de Sementes (CCA/UFPB) Areia, Estado da Paraíba, com o objetivo de determinar metodologia adequada para a condução de testes de germinação e vigor com sementes de D. nigra. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 2 x 7, sendo duas temperaturas (25 e 20-30C) e sete substratos (entre areia, entre vermiculita, bioplant®, plantmax®, entre e sobre papel mata-borrão e papel toalha), com quatro repetições de 25 sementes cada. As características avaliadas foram: germinação (%), primeira contagem de germinação (%), índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. As melhores combinações para condução de testes de germinação e vigor com sementes de D. nigra foram: a temperatura de 25C e os substratos entre vermiculita, sobre papel mata-borrão e papel toalha (organizado na forma de rolo); A temperatura de 20-30C os substratos Bioplant® e o Plantmax®.

Envelhecimento acelerado na avaliação da qualidade fisiológia de sementes de Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All / Accelerated aging in evaluating the quality of seed physiology of Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All

O teste de envelhecimento acelerado é uma alternativa para avaliação do vigor de sementes, entretanto não há informações suficientes sobre sua eficiência para sementes florestais, como as de Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All. (jacarandá-da-bahia). Foi conduzido experimento no Laboratório de Análise de Sementes, da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, com o objetivo de avaliar a qualidade fisiologia de sementes de D. nigra por meio do teste de envelhecimento acelerado. O teste foi conduzido a 41 e 45°C durante 24, 48, 72 e 96 horas, além da testemunha (sementes não envelhecidas). Realizou-se o teste de emergência das plântulas em campo, para verificar a qualidade fisiológica das sementes. As sementes foram distribuídas em camada única sobre tela, em caixas plásticas com 40 mL de água destilada, no interior de câmara BOD. O teor de água e a germinação o vigor das sementes foram determinados antes e após o envelhecimento. O envelhecimento em ambas as temperaturas (41°C e 45°C) a partir de 72 horas, afeta a qualidade fisiológica de sementes de Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All., promovendo redução da viabilidade e do vigor.

The accelerated aging test is a possible option for evaluation of seeds vigor, however there is not enough information on your efficiency for forest seeds, as of Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr. All. This study was conducted to investigate procedures to assess seed vigor by the accelerated aging test in seed forest, of Dalbergia nigra. For so much, an experiment was realized at Laboratory of Analysis of Seeds, in Universidad Federal of Paraíba, in Areia - PB, Brazil Northeast. Accelerated aging was performed at 41°C during 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Seeds were kept in plastic boxes with 40mL of distilled water in a B.O.D chamber. Seeds were tested for germination and moisture content before and after aging. The aging at both temperatures (41 ° C and 45 ° C) after 72 hours, affect the physiological quality of seeds of Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Fr All., promoting reduction of viability and vigor.