Endophytic Bacillus subtilis P10 from Prunus cerasifera as a biocontrol agent against tomato Verticillium wilt / Bacillus subtilis P10 endofítico de Prunus cerasifera como agente de biocontrole contra murcha de Verticillium de tomate

Endophytic bacteria serve key roles in the maintenance of plant health and growth. Few studies to date, however, have explored the antagonistic and plant growth-promoting (PGP) properties of Prunus cerasifera endophytes. To that end, we isolated endophytic bacteria from P. cerasifera tissue samples and used a dual culture plate assay to screen these microbes for antagonistic activity against Verticillium dahliae, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Fusarium oxysporum, F. graminearum, and F. moniliforme. Of the 36 strains of isolated bacteria, four (strains P1, P10, P16, and P20) exhibited antagonistic effects against all five model pathogens, and the P10 strain exhibited the strongest antagonistic to five pathogens. This P10 strain was then characterized in-depth via phenotypic assessments, physiological analyses, and 16s rDNA sequencing, revealing it to be a strain of Bacillus subtilis. Application of a P10 cell suspension (1×108 CFU/mL) significantly enhanced the seed germination and seedling growth of tomato in a greenhouse setting. This P10 strain further significantly suppressed tomato Verticillium wilt with much lower disease incidence and disease index scores being observed following P10 treatment relative to untreated plants in pot-based experiments. Tomato plants that had been treated with strain P10 also enhanced defense-related enzymes, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activity upon V. dahliae challenge relative to plants that had not been treated with this endophytic bacterium. The results revealed that the P10 bacterial strain has potential value as a biocontrol agent for use in the prevention of tomato Verticillium wilt.

As bactérias endofíticas desempenham papel fundamental na manutenção da saúde e do crescimento das plantas. Poucos estudos até o momento, no entanto, exploraram as propriedades antagônicas e promotoras de crescimento de plantas (PGP) de endófitos de Prunus cerasifera. Para esse fim, isolamos bactérias endofíticas de amostras de tecido de P. cerasifera e usamos um ensaio de placa de cultura dupla para rastrear esses micróbios quanto à atividade antagonista contra Verticillium dahliae, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Fusarium oxysporum, F. graminearum e F. moniliforme. Das 36 cepas de bactérias isoladas, quatro (cepas P1, P10, P16 e P20) exibiram efeitos antagônicos contra todos os cinco patógenos modelo, e a cepa P10 exibiu o antagonista mais forte para cinco patógenos. Essa cepa P10 foi então caracterizada em profundidade por meio de avaliações fenotípicas, análises fisiológicas e sequenciamento de rDNA 16s, revelando ser uma cepa de Bacillus subtilis. A aplicação de uma suspensão de células P10 (1 × 108 UFC / mL) aumentou significativamente a germinação das sementes e o crescimento das mudas de tomate em casa de vegetação. Essa cepa P10 suprimiu ainda mais a murcha de Verticillium do tomate com incidência de doença muito menor e pontuações de índice de doença sendo observadas após o tratamento com P10 em relação a plantas não tratadas em experimentos baseados em vasos. As plantas de tomate que foram tratadas com a cepa P10 também aumentaram as enzimas relacionadas à defesa, peroxidase, superóxido dismutase e atividade da catalase após o desafio de V. dahliae em relação às plantas que não foram tratadas com essa bactéria endofítica. Os resultados revelaram que a cepa bacteriana P10 tem valor potencial como agente de biocontrole para uso na prevenção da murcha de Verticillium em tomate.

Fenología reproductiva de Prunus lundelliana Standl. (Rosaceae), un árbol en peligro de extinción con potencial para restaurar bosques nubosos de Mesoamérica / Reproductive phenology of Prunus lundelliana Standl. (Rosaceae), an endangered tree with potential to restore cloud forests of Mesoamerica

La fenología estudia los cambios estacionales en los ciclos de vida de los organismos. Una utilidad de la fenología, es que permite establecer periodos en que se pueden colectar semillas para programas de restauración ecológica. Por lo que, de abril de 2017 a mayo de 2019, en el volcán Tacaná, San Marcos, Guatemala, se estableció la estaciona-lidad, variación anual, sincronía, intensidad y duración de las fenofases reproductivas de Prunus lundelliana Standl. Aproximadamente cada 15 días, en 10 individuos se registró la presencia e intensidad de las flores (botones y abiertas) y frutos (inmaduros y maduros). Los datos se analizaron con estadística circular, encontrándose que todas la fenofases fueron estacionales y que solo el patrón de los frutos inmaduros varió significativamente entre los dos periodos. La sincronía fue principalmente alta y la intensidad no superó el 40%. En ambos periodos las intensidades menores las presentaron los frutos maduros (17 y 25%). Los índices de actividad e intensidad se correlacionaron significativamente, por lo que los ángulos medios fueron semejantes en las fenofases y periodos de estudio. Los picos de actividad-in-tensidad de las flores abiertas y de los frutos maduros ocurrieron durante los meses secos (noviembre-abril), patrón que se ha registrado en otros bosques nubosos. La duración de las fenofases varió entre 2.5-3.5 meses, siendo la más pequeña la de frutos maduros. Para fines de manejo, la colecta de frutos maduros puede hacerse desde mediados de marzo hasta finales de mayo, sin embargo, se sugiere hacerlo principalmente entre el 15 de abril y el 15 de mayo.

Phenology studies the seasonal changes in the life cycle of organisms. Phenological data allow to set the periods in which the seeds can be collected for ecological restoration programs. From April, 2017 to May, 2019, in Taca-ná volcano, San Marcos, Guatemala, it was established the seasonality, annual variation, synchrony, intensity, and duration of the reproductive phenophases of Prunus lundelliana Standl. About every 15 days, 10 individuals were observed and it was recorded the presence and intensity of flowers (buds and blossom flowers) and fruits (immature and mature fruits). The data was analyzed with circular statistics, finding that all the phenophases were seasonally distributed and only the immature fruits pattern significantly variated between the two periods. The synchrony was mainly high and the intensity did not exceed 40%. In both of the study periods, the lesser intensities were presented by the mature fruits (17 and 25%). The activity and intensity indexes were significantly correlated; therefore the mid angles were alike in the phenophases and study periods. The activity-intensity highs of blossom flowers and of mature fruits happened in the dry months (November to April), a pattern that has been registered in other cloud forests. The duration of the phenophases ranged from 2.5 to 3.5 months, being the shortest the mature fruits phenophase. For environmental management purposes, the collection of mature fruits can be done from the middle of March to the end of May, nonetheless, it should be done mainly between April 15th and May 15th.

Antimicrobial effect against oral bacteria on bioactive compounds in a high-pressure enzymatic Prunus mume extract / Efeito antimicrobiano contra bactérias orais sobre compostos bioativos em um extrato enzimático de Prunus mume de alta pressão

To evaluate high-pressure processing combined with enzymatic treatment for extraction of Prunus mume by determining the optimum extraction conditions for the antimicrobial activity against oral bacteria. Highpressure enzymatic extraction was used to isolate biologically active components from P. mume. The effects of process variables such as enzyme type (Pectinex Ultra SP-L, Novozym 33095 and Viscozyme L), enzyme concentration, incubation time/temperature, pH, and ratio of enzymes antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens related to dental caries and periodontal diseases were determined by disk diffusion assay. The optimal conditions for enzymatic extraction from P. mume were pH 6.0, 45°C, 20 h, and 5 v/v% with Pectinex Ultra SP-L. The maximum antimicrobial activity of P. mume extract obtained using Novozym 33095 was at pH 7.0, 45°C, 20 h, and 5 v/v%. The Viscozyme L extract showed the maximum inhibitory effect at pH 6.0, 45°C, 20 h, and 5 v/v%. Use of combinations of enzymes did not result in significantly different antimicrobial activity (p < 0.05) compared with each enzyme alone. Minimum inhibitory concentration values were 3.125 to 12.50%. These results indicated that high-pressure enzymatic extraction yielded P. mume extract with antimicrobial activity which has the potential for improving oral environment.

Avaliar o processamento de alta pressão combinado com o tratamento enzimático para a extração de Prunus mume, determinando as condições ótimas de extração para a atividade antimicrobiana contra as bactérias orais. A extração enzimática de alta pressão foi utilizada para isolar os componentes biologicamente ativos de P. mume. Os efeitos das variáveis do processo como o tipo enzimático (Pectinex Ultra SP-L, Novozym 33095 e Viscozyme L), a concentração de enzima, o tempo/temperatura de incubação, pH, e a relação da atividade antimicrobiana de enzimas contra os patógenos orais relacionados à cárie dentária e doenças periodontais foram determinados pelo ensaio de difusão em disco. As condições ótimas para a extração enzimática de P. mume foram pH 6.0, 45°C, 20 h, e 5 v/v% com Pectinex Ultra SP-L. A máxima atividade antimicrobiana do extrato de P. mume obtida usando Novozym 33095 foi em pH 7.0, 45°C, 20 h, e 5 v/v%. O extrato de Viscozyme L apresentou o efeito inibitório máximo em pH 6.0, 45°C, 20 h, e 5 v/v%. O uso de combinações de enzimas não resultou em uma atividade antimicrobiana significativamente diferente (p < 0.05) em comparação com cada enzima por separada. Os valores mínimos da concentração inibitória foram de 3.125 a 12.50%. Estes resultados indicaram que a extração enzimática de alta pressão produziu o extrato de P. mume com atividade antimicrobiana,o qual tem o potencial para melhorar o ambiente bucal.

Usos y costumbres sobre hierbas medicinales en barrios periurbanos del sudeste de la ciudad de Salta, Argentina / Uses and customs on medicinal herbs in periurban neighborhoods ofsoutheastern Salta City, Argentina

Desde la medicina oficial se desconoce y subestima el uso de otras formas de atención, por lo que este trabajo tiene como objetivos caracterizar el conocimiento sobre uso de hierbas medicinales en la zona sudeste de la ciudad de Salta; identificar cuáles se utilizan para tratar problemas de salud; y valorar su frecuencia de uso. Se realizó una investigación cuali-cuantitativa, entrevistando a informantes claves y grupos focales. Se confeccionaron listas de hierbas medicinales, y sus usos se categorizaron por problemas de salud. Se realizó una encuesta sobre frecuencia de usos medicinales. Se mencionaron 59 hierbas medicinales con una media de 2,3 usos por planta. Con un "Nivel de importancia Significativo" se encuentran quimpe, tusca, paico, coca, molle, ruda y hediondilla. El "coqueo" se encontró en 54% de las familias. El 52% utiliza alguna hierba para afecciones gastrointestinales, el 45% para problemas de la piel, el 40 % para afecciones respiratorias, el 33% para "empacho" y 17% para problemas renales, sin diferencias significativas en los usos por grupo etáreo. La población tiene amplio conocimiento sobre hierbas medicinales. La medicina formal debe legitimar estos conocimientos e incluirlos en su práctica.

Traditional health professionals underestimate and fail to recognize the use of other forms of health care, therefore this research has the objective of characterizing knowledge about the use of medicinal herbs in the southeastern area of Salta city; to identify which herbs are used to treat health problems; and to assess its frequency of use. Qualitative and quantitative research was conducted by interviewing key informants and focus groups. Lists of medicinal herbs and uses were created and categorized by health problems. Finally, a closed survey on frequency of use was carried out. Fifty-nine herbs were mentioned with an average of 2.3 uses per plant. quimpe, tusca , paico, coca, molle, ruda and hediondillawere herbs marked as “with a Significant Level of Impotanse”. The use of coca was found in 54% of the families interviewed. Fifty-two percent used some herb for gastrointestinal disorders, 45% for skin problems, 40% for respiratory conditions, 33% for indigestion and 17% for kidney problems, with no significant differences in uses according toage groups. Population has a good knowledge of medicinal herbs. Formal medicine should legitimize this knowledge and include it in its practice.

Aislamiento presuntivo y caracterización de cryptococcus neoformans y cryptococcus gattii desde árboles en la región de O’Higgins y Maule, Chile / Presumptive isolation and characterization of cryptococcus neoformans and cryptococcus gattii from trees in the region of O’Higgins and Maule, Chile

Introducción: la criptocococis es una micosis sistémica causada por C. neoformans y C. gattii, es frecuente y oportunista en inmunocomprometidos y patógeno primario en personas inmunocompetentes. C. neoformans tiene una distribución mundial y se ha aislado desde las excretas de palomas. C. gattii se considera restringida a regiones con clima tropical, subtropical, y templadas, se encuentra asociada frecuentemente a detritos de especies de Eucalyptus sp. La virulencia de estas levaduras le permite desarrollar patogénesis en mamíferos y supervivencia en el ambiente. Objetivo: Identificar y determinar la actividad de proteinasas y fosfolipasas, de C. neoformans y C. gattii aisladas desde las oquedades de árboles en lugares con alta afluencia de público. Materiales y Métodos: Se tomaron 200 muestras de hisopado desde distintas especies de árboles desde sectores de la región de O’Higgins y el Maule. Se siembran en ASG, se aíslan y mantienen en ASD. Identificación con tinta china, Urea de Christensen, crecimiento a 37°C, asimilación y fermentación de azucares, y siembra en medio CGB. Se mide índice de actividad enzimática Prz de proteinasas y fofolipasas. Resultados y Conclusiones: Se obtuvieron 109 cepas de C. neoformans aisladas desde las oquedades de diferentes especies arbóreas y 3 cepas presuntivas de C. gattii desde Eucalyptus sp. y Prunus cerasifera artropurpurea. El 88,1 por ciento de las cepas C. neoformans y 100 por ciento de C. gattii, presentaron alta actividad proteolítica, El 49,5 por ciento de las cepas de C. neoformans y 33,3 por ciento de C. gattii mostraron alta actividad de fosfolipasas.

Introduction: criptocococis is a systemic mycosis caused by C. neoformans and C. gattii, frequent and opportunistic in immunocompromised and primary pathogen in immunocompetent persons. C. neoformans has a worldwide distribution and has been isolated from the excreta of pigeons. C. gattii is considered restricted to regions with tropical, subtropical, and temperate, is often associated with species of Eucalyptus sp. The virulence of these yeasts develop pathogenesis allows survival in mammals and the environment. Objective: To identify and determine the activity of proteinases and phospholipases of C. neoformans and C. gattii isolated from the hollows of trees in places with high turnout. Materials and Methods: 200 swab samples were taken from different species of trees from areas of the region of O’Higgins and Maule. Planted in ASG, they are isolated and kept in ASD. Identification with ink, Urea Christensen, growth at 37 ° C, assimilation and fermentation of sugars, and planting medium CGB. Prz index proteinase enzyme activity is measured and phospholipases. Results and Conclusions: We manage to get 109 strains of C. neoformans isolated from the hollows of different tree species and 3 presumptive strains of C. gattii from Eucalyptus sp. and Prunus cerasifera artropurpurea. 88.1 percent of the strains C. neoformans and C. gattii 100 percent , they showed high proteolytic activity, 49.5 percent of the strains of C. neoformans and C. gattii 33.3 percent showed high activity phospholipases.

Contenido de nutrientes de bebidas artesanales a base de almendras / Nutrient content of homemade almond beverages

Introducción: la comercialización de bebidas a base de al-mendras fortificadas con calcio (Ca) se ha difundido inter-nacionalmente. Por su aspecto blanquecino se denominan usualmente “leches”, siendo utilizadas en reemplazo de le-che vacuna, sobre todo por vegetarianos estrictos. En Argentina se preparan sólo de manera artesanal y se desconoce su contenido en nutrientes, en particular de minerales. Objetivos: estudiar la composición centesimal y el contenido de minerales de las bebidas artesanales en base a almendras, utilizando distintas condiciones de obtención usualmente empleadas. Materiales y métodos: se elaboraron cuatro bebidas uti-lizando 100 g de almendras en 600 ml de agua, variando tiempos de remojo (0-36 hs) y con/sin filltración. Se estudió Ca por espectrometría de absorción atómica, sodio (Na) y po-tasio (K) por espectrometría de emisión, previa mineralización nitro-perclórica (50:50). En almendras se determinaron los inositoles fosfatos (IP) por HPLC y se calculó la relación molar ácido fítico (AF)/Ca, utilizando factores de conversión, como indicador de la disponibilidad potencial de Ca. Resultados: la composición de almendras fue (g%): grasas 53,5; proteínas 16,8; fibra dietaria total 9,6; cenizas 2,9; car-bohidratos digeribles 12,0; minerales (mg%): Ca 221; K 555 y Na 0,7; IP (mg%): IP3 54, IP4 151, IP5 853, IP6 4838. La relación molar AF/Ca resultó 1,6, muy superior a la recomen-dada (<0,17). En bebidas los resultados fueron (g%): grasas 3,2-5,6; proteínas 2,3-2,8; cenizas 0,2-0,3; minerales (mg%): Ca 9-18; K 56-68 y Na 13-16. Conclusiones: no se evidenciaron diferencias en nutrientes al comparar los diversos tiempos de remojo, ni con o sin filtración, resultando productos de muy bajo contenido de Na y Ca, y moderado aporte de K.

ntroduction: calcium fortified almond beverages are inter-nationally produced. Due to its white appearance they are usually termed as "milk", being used to replace cow's milk, especially by the strict vegetarians. In Argentina, they are only homemade prepared and their nutrient content is unknown, particularly minerals.Objectives: to establish the proximate composition and con-tent of almond beverages using different processing condi-tions usually employed.Materials and methods: 4 beverages were prepared using 100 g of almonds in 600 ml water, changing the soaking time (0-36 hs) and with/without ltration. Calcium (Ca), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) of almonds and were quanti ed by atomic absorption spectrometry (Ca) and emission spectrometry (Na and K), after a nitroperchloric (50:50) mineralization. Inositol phosphates (IP) were determined in almonds by HPLC and the phytic acid (PA)/Ca molar ratio was calculated using conversion factors as an indicator of the potential availability of Ca. Results: the almonds composition was (g%): fats 53,5; pro-teins 16,8; total dietary bre 9,6; ashes 2,9; digestible carbo-hydrates 12,0; minerals (mg%): Ca 221; K 555 and Na 0,7; IP (mg%): IP3 54, IP4 151, IP5 853, IP6 4838. The PA/Ca molar ratio was 1,6, much higher than the recommended value (<0,17). The results for the 4 beverages were (g%): fats 3,2-5,6; proteins 2.3-2.8; ash 0.2-0.3; minerals (mg%): Ca 9-18; K 56-68 and Na 13-16. Conclusions: there was no signi cant difference in the nu-trient content of the 4 beverages neither when different soaking time nor the presence or absences of ltration were compared. The beverages are products with low content of Na and Ca and moderate content of K.

Phenolic compounds and vitamins in wild and cultivated apricot (Prunus armeniaca L) fruits grown in irrigated and dry farming conditions

BACKGROUND: Turkey is the main apricot producer in the world and apricots have been produced under both dry and irrigated conditions in the country. In this study, phenolic compounds and vitamins in fruits of one wild (Zerdali) and three main apricot cultivars ('Cataloglu', 'Hacihaliloglu' and 'Kabaasi') grown in both dry and irrigated conditions in Malatya provinces in Turkey were investigated. RESULTS: The findings indicated that higher content of phenolic compounds and vitamins was found in apricot fruits grown in irrigated conditions. Among the cultivars, 'Cataloglu' had the highest rutin contents both in irrigated and dry farming conditions as 2855 µg in irrigated and 6952 µg per 100 g dried weight base in dry conditions and the highest chlorogenic acid content in irrigated and dry farming conditions were measured in fruits of 'Hacihaliloglu' cultivar as 7542 µg and 15251 µg per 100 g dried weight base. Vitamin C contents in homogenates of fruit flesh and skin was found to be higher than ß-caroten, retinol, vitamin E and lycopen contents in apricot fruits both in irrigated and dry farming conditions. CONCLUSION: The results suggested that apricot fruits grown in both dry and irrigated conditions had high health benefits phytochemicals and phytochemical content varied among cultivars and irrigation conditions as well. However, more detailed biological and pharmacological studies are needed for the demonstration and clarification of health benefits of apricot fruits.

Evaluation of seasonal antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds in stems and leaves of some almond (Prunus amygdalus L.) varieties

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine the seasonal changes of total antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds in samples taken from leaves (April, July, October) and stems (April, July, October, January) of some almond (Prunus amygdalus L.) varieties (Nonpareil, Ferragnes and Texas). RESULTS: It was indicated that antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds in leaves and stems of Nonpareil, Ferragnes and Texas showed seasonal differences. Antioxidant activity IC50 of these varieties reached the highest value in April for leaves whereas in October for stems. The highest level of total phenolic compounds was in January for stems while in October for leaves. CONCLUSIONS: These results showed that total antioxidant activity and phenolics in leaves and stems of almond varieties changed according to season and plant organ.

Comparación de los efectos antibacterianos de aseos bucales con matrica, Persica® y gluconato de clorhexidina en pacientes de UCI con ventilación mecánica: ensayo clínico doble ciego y aleatorio / Comparison of the antibacterial effects of matrica & PersicaTM and chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwashes in mechanically ventilated ICU patients: a double blind randomized clinical trial

Background:Accumulation of bacteria in the pharynx is one of the risk factors of pneumonia due to ventilation. One of the methods of prevention from accumulation of bacteria in the pharynx is the use of oral solutions. Chlorhexidine is considered as the gold standard, but it has various side effects. Aim:Present study was aimed to determine and compare anti-bacterial effects of the chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2%, herbal mouthwash of Matrica® (chamomile extracts) 10%, PersicaTM 10% and normal saline in intensive care unit patients. Methods:In this double blind randomized clinical trial, 80 patients who were admitted in ICU divided into four groups of 20 patients each one. Researchers applied PersicaTM to group one, chlorhexidine gluconate mouth wash 0.2% to group two and third group received Matrica, finally in the control group, normal saline were used. In order to culturing of Staphylococcus aureusand S. pneumoniae,salivary samples were obtained without any stimulation after six minimums oral rinsing. The data were processed in SPSS17 software and analyzed by appropriate statistical tests. Results:Decreased rate of bacterial colonies after intervention in the whole four groups was significant (p < 0.001). The mouth wash of chlorhexidine (p < 0.001), PersicaTM (p: 0.008) and Matrica (p: 0.01) had a significant antibacterial effect on S. aureusand S. pneumoniae(p < 0.001). Conclusion:Herbal oral mouthwash of persica and matrica has the effect on S. pneumoniae and S. aureusof oropharynx area in mechanically ventilated patients. However, there is a need for further research to be considered as an alternative to chlorhexidine for prevention of VALP in ICU patients.

Introducción:La presencia y acumulación de bacterias en la cavidad oral es un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de neumonía asociada a ventilación mecánica. Uno de los métodos para prevenir esta acumulación en la faringe es el uso de soluciones orales. Al respecto, clorhexidina es considerada el estándar de oro, pero tiene varios efectos colaterales. Objetivo:Determinar y comparar el efecto antibacteriano de gluconato de chorhexidina al 0,2%, aseo bucal con preparado en base a hierba matrica (extracto de chamomile) al 10%, Persica® al 10% y solución salina fisiológica (NaCl 9%0) en pacientes de la unidad de cuidados intensivos ingresados para ventilación mecánica. Métodos:Ensayo doble ciego, randomizado, sobre 80 pacientes ingresados en UCI, divididos en cuatro grupos de 20 miembros cada uno. El grupo I recibió Persica®, el grupo II aseo bucal con gluconato de clorhexidina al 0,2%, el grupo III recibió matrica y, finalmente, el grupo IV-control recibió solución salina fisiológica. Con la finalidad de cultivar Staphylococcus aureus yS. pneumoniae,se obtuvieron muestras de saliva sin efectuar estímulo alguno tras un mínimo de seis lavados bucales. Los datos fueron procesados en el software SPSS17 y analizados por tests estadísticos apropiados. Resultados:La disminución en el recuento de colonias bacterianas, después de la intervención, fue significativa en los cuatro grupos (p < 0,001). El aseo bucal con clorhexidina (p < 0,001), Persica® (p: 0,008) y matrica (p: 0,01) tuvo un significativo efecto antibacteriano sobre las especies S. aureusy S. pneumoniae(p < 0,001). Conclusión:El aseo bucal con solución en base a hierbas de Persica® y matrica tiene un efecto sobre S. pneumoniae y S. aureusde la cavidad oral en pacientes en régimen de ventilación mecánica. No obstante, se requiere de mayores estudios para considerarlo una alternativa a clorhexidina para la prevención de neumonías en pacientes de UCI.

Breeding in peach, cherry and plum: from a tissue culture, genetic, transcriptomic and genomic perspective

This review is an overview of traditional and modern breeding methodologies being used to develop new Prunus cultivars (stone fruits) with major emphasis on peach, sweet cherry and Japanese plum. To this end, common breeding tools used to produce seedlings, including in vitro culture tools, are discussed. Additionally, the mechanisms of inheritance of many important agronomical traits are described. Recent advances in stone fruit transcriptomics and genomic resources are providing an understanding of the molecular basis of phenotypic variability as well as the identification of allelic variants and molecular markers. These have potential applications for understanding the genetic diversity of the Prunus species, molecular marker-assisted selection and transgenesis. Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) molecular markers are described as useful tools to describe genetic diversity in peach, sweet cherry and Japanese plum. Additionally, the recently sequenced peach genome and the public release of the sweet cherry genome are discussed in terms of their applicability to breeding programs.

Efecto del procesamiento sobre la capacidad antioxidante de la ciruela criolla (Prunus domestica)

Las frutas son consideradas fuentes de compuestos antioxidantes, cuyas propiedades pudieran desmejorar debido al procesamiento. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar el efecto del escaldado y la deshidratación osmótica sobre el contenido de polifenoles totales, taninos y la capacidad antioxidante de la ciruela criolla (Prunus domestica) en sus variedades amarilla y roja. La concentración de los polifenoles totales se determinó mediante el método Folin-Ciocalteu, los taninos por el método de la vanilina y la capacidad antioxidante por la eficiencia antirradical (EA) y el método de poder reductor férrico (FRP). El contenido de polifenoles totales y los taninos fueron mayores en la ciruela roja que en la amarilla. En las dos variedades, el mayor contenido de polifenoles se encontró en la pulpa, mientras que los taninos se encontraron en mayor proporción en las cáscaras. La ciruela roja presentó mayor capacidad antioxidante, siendo la EA baja y de cinética lenta para las dos variedades. Se observó una correlación lineal entre los polifenoles y los taninos con la eficiencia antirradical, sin embargo, con el poder reductor no hubo correlación. El escaldado incrementó el contenido de polifenoles, mientras que los taninos y la EA disminuyeron, el poder reductor no se vio afectado por los tratamientos. Para la deshidratación osmótica se obtuvo una disminución significativa de los taninos y la eficiencia antirradical, mientras que los polifenoles y el poder reductor no se vieron afectados por el procesamiento. Se recomienda el escaldado como alternativa de consumo y conservación en la ciruela criolla.

Effect of processing on the antioxidant capacity of the plum (Prunus domestica). Fruits are considered sources of antioxidant compounds whose properties could impair due to processing. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of blanching and osmotic dehydration on the total polyphenols content, tannins and antioxidant capacity of plums (Prunus domestica) in yellow and red varieties. The total phenolic content in plums was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and tannins were determined by vanillin assay. The antiradical efficiency (AE) and ferric reducing power (FRP) were used to estimate the total antioxidant capacity. The content of total polyphenols and tannins were higher in the red plum. The content of polyphenols in the pulp was higher that the peel while for tannins the opposite was observed in both varieties. The red plum had higher antioxidant capacity. The AE was low and slow kinetics for the two varieties. There was a linear correlation between polyphenols and tannins with antiradical efficiency; however, there was no correlation with the reducing power. The total polyphenols content was increased with blanching, while the tannins and the AE decreased, ferric reducing power is unaffected. For osmotic dehydration, the tannins and the AE were decreased, while the total polyphenols content and ferric reducing power are unaffected.It is recommended the blanched as an alternative to consumption and conservation in the plum.

Natural enemies associated to aphids in peach orchards in Araucária, Paraná, Brazil / Inimigos naturais associados a afídeos em pomares de pessegueiros em Araucária, Estado do Paraná, Brasil

Natural enemies of the Class Insecta are important agents in the balance of aphid populations and an alternative to using insecticides to control these insects. The aim of this study was to identify the species of natural enemies associated with aphids present in peach orchards and observe the efficiency of capturing different sampling methods. The experiment was conducted from July, 2005 to September, 2006 in six peach orchards 'Chimarrita', in Araucária, PR, Brazil. The samples were taken by visual analysis in peach plants and weeds, yellow pan traps, sticky traps and funnels. Predator species were identified: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, Cycloneda pulchella, Cycloneda sanguinea, Eriopis connexa, Harmonia axyridis, Hippodamia convergens and Scymnus sp. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae), Allograpta sp., Palpada sp. and Toxomerus sp. (Diptera, Syrphidae) and Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae) and the parasitoids: Diaretiella rapae, Opius sp. and Praon sp (Braconidae). Examples of Encyrtidae and Eulophidae await identification. Chrysoperla sp. was a less abundant species. There were no statistically significant differences between the different sampling methods tested.

Os inimigos naturais da Classe Insecta são importantes agentes no equilíbrio das populações de afídeos e uma forma alternativa ao uso de inseticidas no controle desses insetos. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as espécies de inimigos naturais associados aos afídeos presentes em pomares de pessegueiros, além de verificar a eficiência de captura de diferentes métodos de amostragem. O experimento foi realizado de julho de 2005 a setembro de 2006, em seis pomares de pessegueiros 'Chimarrita' em Araucária-PR, Brasil. As amostragens foram realizadas por meio de: análise visual em plantas de pessegueiros e plantas invasoras; armadilhas amarelas; armadilhas adesivas, e funil. Foram identificados os predadores: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, Cycloneda pulchella, Cycloneda sanguinea, Eriopis connexa, Harmonia axyridis, Hippodamia convergens, Scymnus sp. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae), Allograpta sp., Palpada sp., Toxomerus sp. (Diptera, Syrphidae) e Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae), além dos parasitoides: Diaretiella rapae, Opius sp. e Praon sp. (Braconidae). Exemplares de Encyrtidae e Eulophidae aguardam identificação. Chrysoperla sp. foi a espécie menos abundante. Não foram constatadas diferenças estatísticas significativas entre os diferentes métodos de amostragem testados.

Composição química e antinutrientes presentes nas amêndoas cruas e torradas de chicha (Sterculia striata A. St. Hill & Naudin) / Chemical composition and antinutrients of raw and roasted chicha almonds (Sterculia striata A. St. Hill & Naudin)

OBJETIVO: Analisar os componentes químicos e antinutrientes antes e após torrefação da amêndoa de chichá da espécie Sterculia striata A. St. Hill & Naudin, oriunda de Corrente, Piauí. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas análises: centesimal, perfil de ácidos graxos, antinutrientes (taninos, inibidor de tripsina, inibidor de amilase, lectina, fitatos), compostos fenólicos e atividade de peroxidase e polifenoloxidase. RESULTADOS: Os resultados da análise centesimal da amêndoa crua e torrada foram: lipídeos de 25,1 por cento e 26,2 por cento, carboidratos de 44,4 por cento e 45,6 por cento, proteína de 20,8 por cento e 22,1 por cento, cinzas de 3,7 por cento e 4,0 por cento, fibra alimentar total de 12,3 por cento e 10,4 por cento, respectivamente. Nas amêndoas cruas e torradas não foram encontradas lectinas, taninos, inibidores de tripsina e alfa-amilase. Verificou-se a ausência de peroxidase e polifenoloxidase e conteúdo de compostos fenólicos de 107,7mg/100g e 108,9mg/100g para amêndoas cruas e torradas, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: A torrefação realizada a 205ºC por 11 minutos diminuiu o teor de fitatos de 10,6mg/g para 5,5mg/g. Por fim, as amêndoas de chichá, cruas e torradas, apresentam alto teor de proteínas, fibras, ácidos graxos monoinsaturados e saturados.

OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the chemical components and antinutrients present in raw and roasted chichá almonds from the species Sterculia striata A. St. Hill & Naudin harvested in Corrente, Piauí. METHODS: The following were determined: percent composition, fatty acid profile, antinutrients (tannins, trypsin inhibitor, amylase inhibitor, lectin, phytates), phenolic compounds and peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities. RESULTS: The percentage composition of the raw and lipid almonds were respectively: 25.1 percent and 26.2 percent fats, 44.4 percent and 45.6 percent carbohydrates, 20.8 percent and 22.1 percent protein, 3.7 percent and 4.0 percent ashes, and 12.3 percent and 10.4 percent total fiber. Neither raw nor roasted almonds contained lectins, tannins, trypsin inhibitors, alpha-amylase, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. Contents of phenolic compounds were 107.7mg/100g and 108.9mg/100 for the raw and roasted almonds, respectively. CONCLUSION: Roasting at 205ºC for 11 minutes reduced phytate content from 10.6mg/g to 5.5mg/g. Raw and roasted chichá almonds have a high content of proteins, fibers and monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids.

Acetilação e funcionalidade das proteínas das amêndoas da munguba (Pachira aquatica Aubl) / Acetylation and activities of proteins from munguba (Pachira aquatica Aubl) almonds

Neste estudo foram caracterizadas as propriedades funcionais das proteínas da amêndoa de munguba, modificadas quimicamente por acetilação. As amostras do isolado proteico foram alteradas por acetilação, utilizando-se anidrido acético como reagente modificante nas concentrações de 5, 10 e 15. A extensão da modificação obtida com adição de anidrido acético foi, respectivamente, de 31,09, 72,75 e 81,77. O efeito de modificação sobre as propriedades funcionais do isolado proteico da munguba e dos derivados acetilados mostrou redução da solubilidade com o aumento do pH até que fossem alcançados seus pontos isoelétricos, respectivamente, em pH 5,0 e 4,0, seguidos por aumentos da solubilização a partir desses pontos. A capacidade de absorção de água e do óleo do isolado proteico nativo foi melhorada após acetilação. Houve aumento da capacidade emulsificante do isolado nativo na região alcalina. As características de atividade e estabilidade de emulsão do isolado proteico foram melhoradas no ponto isoelétrico (pI) e no pH 7,0, após a modificação. A viscosidade do isolado proteico nativo sofreu pouca alteração após a modificação; contudo, a viscosidade tornou-se elevada com o aumento da concentração da solução proteica e diminuída com o aquecimento a 90 ºC.

Accumulation of Antioxidants in Apricot Fruit through Ripening: Characterization of a Genotype with Enhanced Functional Properties

Two apricot genotypes, 'Gonci magyarkajszi' and 'Preventa' were assayed at three ripening stages for flesh color indices (L*, a*, b*, C* and Hº), contents of total phenolics and vitamin C, and both water- and lipid-soluble antioxidant capacities (ferric reducing antioxidant power; 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity; total radical scavenging activity; and Photochem lipid-soluble antioxidant capacity) to compare their dynamics in the accumulation of antioxidant compounds and capacities through ripening. The increase in a*, b* and C* and decrease in Hº during ripening represented a color shift from green to yellow and orange due to carotenoid accumulation. Parallel to carotenoid accumulation, contents of total phenolics and vitamin C and antioxidant capacity increased significantly (p < 0.05) from unripe to fully ripe fruits. More phenolics and vitamin C accumulated in fully ripe fruits of 'Preventa' than 'Gonci magyarkajszi'. The accumulation patterns of these compounds were different: while the vitamin C contents in unripe fruit of 'Preventa' and 'Gonci magyarkajszi' were identical (approx. 6 mg/100 g fresh weight), unripe 'Preventa' contained even more phenolics (approx. 12 mmolGA/l) than fully ripe 'Gonci magyarkajszi' (8 mmolGA/l). Our results confirm that fully ripe 'Preventa' fruits are characterized by outstanding functional properties due to the increased accumulation of vitamin C and phenolics throughout the ripening process.

Propagación de "Zazafras" (Prunus brachybotrya Zucc) utilizado en la medicina tradicional de El Veladero, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero / Propagation of "Zazafras" (Prunus brachybotrya Zucc) used in the traditional medicine of El Veladero, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero

La riqueza biológica de México y su diversidad cultural, se han traducido en el desarrollo de una vasta tradición etnobotánica, la cual incluye el conocimiento, uso y manejo de especies vegetales a través de complejas formas de interacción, entre las comunidades locales y su entorno vegetal. Los habitantes, del estado de Guerrero poseen riqueza biológica y cultural, esto se observa en comunidades como El Veladero, donde se utiliza la corteza de Zazafras (Prunus brachybotrya Zucc), a la cual se le atribuyen propiedades medicinales para tratar padecimientos de la diabetes. Sin embargo, al descortezar los árboles, éstos quedan expuestos a organismos patógenos que les causan la muerte lo cual disminuye las poblaciones, por lo que el objetivo general de este trabajo fue conocer las condiciones necesarias para la propagación de Prunus brachybotrya. Se realizaron 5 experimentos para: pruebas de viabilidad, de imbibición, de almacenamiento y germinación de frutos in vivo, germinación in vitro y almacenamiento y germinación de embriones in vivo. Se encontró que las semillas colectadas directamente del árbol tienen mayor viabilidad que las semillas del suelo, la imbibición después de 2:30 h fue mínima, los mayores porcentajes de germinación se presentan al cultivar embriones tanto in vitro como in vivo en peat moss-agrolita, 1:1 v/v. El endocarpio limita la expansión de los cotiledones y provoca latencia mecánica. Las semillas de Zazafras se pudieron almacenar 38 días a temperatura ambiente y mantuvieron más del 95 % de viabilidad. Se concluye que la manera más eficaz de propagación es la siembra de embriones en suelo, la cual es una técnica fácil y económica que puede ser realizada por los habitantes de la comunidad, para la conservación de la especie.

Análise das proteínas e estudo reológico dos isolados proteicos das amêndoas da faveleira (Cnidosculus phyllacanthus (Mart.) Pax. et K. Hoffm.) com e sem espinhos / Analysis on rheological properties of proteins isolated from nuts from faveleira trees (Cnidosculus phyllacanthus (Mart.) Pax. et K. Hoffm.) with and without thorns

A faveleira possui amêndoas com potencial em óleos e proteínas alimentares e é encontrada no Nordeste brasileiro, principalmente nas regiões do sertão e caatinga. As proteínas contidas nas amêndoas das variedades da faveleira com (FCE) e sem (FSE) espinhos foram isoladas, classificadas e estudadas quanto à viscosidade para o seu possível uso como alternativo ingrediente alimentar. As sementes de ambas variedades apresentaram elevadas concentrações proteicas com, respectivamente, 26,20% e 30,70%. Quando desengorduradas, estas passaram a 57,55 e 63,00%. A fração de globulina apresentou-se mais expressiva (63,37 e 63,91%). O isolado proteico apresentou teores de proteínas solúveis de 81,08% e 90,02%. Quando analisadas por eletroforese, apareceram quatro subunidades na faixa de PM de 40,8 a 20,2 kDa para a amêndoa da FCE e sete subunidades na faixa de 60,5 a 21,1 kDa para a da FSE. Quanto à viscosidade, foram analisadas as concentrações de 1, 3, 5 e 7% de isolado proteico e observou-se uma relação de dependência positiva da viscosidade com a concentração de proteína. O isolado proteico da FSE mostrou maior viscosidade que a de FCE. Como a faveleira possui alto teor de proteína, independentemente da sua variedade, sugere-se a sua possível utilização como ingrediente em formulações alimentícias.

Faveleira grows throughout the caatinga biosphere in the Brazilian Northeast region. Its nuts contain potential nourishing oils and proteins. The proteins in nuts from faveleira with (FWT) and without thorns (FWOT) were classified, and the proteins viscosity was analyzed at different conditions and concentrations; also itsuse as an alternative food ingredient was evaluated. The nuts from both varieties of faveleira showed anelevated protein concentration of 26.2 and 30.70%, respectively; after removing the fat matter, the proteinscontents turned 57.5 and 63.0%, respectively. The protein classification according to its solubility wasperformed in defatted nuts, and the globulin fraction exhibited meaningful concentrations (63.3 and 63.9%,respectively). The nut of both faveleira varieties showed 81.0 and 90.0% of soluble proteins, respectively. By electrophoresis, the nuts from FWT showed four protein sub-units with MW ranging from 20.2 to 40.8 kDa, and seven protein sub-units ranging from 21.1 to 60.5 kDa in nuts from FWOT. Protein solutions at 1, 3, 5 e 7% were analyzed on viscosity, and a positive dependence correlation between viscosity and protein concentration was observed. The proteins in nuts from FWT showed higher viscosity than thosefrom FWOT. Owing to the high protein concentration, the faveleira’s nuts might be used in food formulas.

Population fluctuation and faunal indices of aphids (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in peach orchards in Araucária, PR / Flutuação populacional e índices faunísticos de afídeos (Hemiptera, Aphididae) em pomares de pessegueiros em Araucária, PR

Aphids are sap-sucking insects that mainly attack shoots and young leaves of peach trees and many other plant species; however, knowledge of the Brazilian aphid fauna is scant. The objective of this study was to identify aphid species collected in peach orchards (Prunus persica Batsch) and to determine their faunal indices for occurrence and dominance. The experiment was conducted from July 2005 to September 2006 in six Chimarrita peach orchards in the municipality of Araucária, PR, Brazil. The survey of aphid species was conducted by visual samplings on peach trees and using Mõericke-type yellow traps containing water. A faunal analysis was made using aphid occurrence and dominance indices. Brachycaudus persicae (Passerini, 1860) was the only aphid species that was found colonizing peach in Araucária/PR. Although most aphids collected were classified as rare, some can be considered potential peach colonizers, such as Myzus persicae (Sulzer, 1776) which was given the status of common or intermediate in some of the orchards studied. The population fluctuation of aphids showed a negative correlation with rainfall and positive correlation with temperature and relative humidity.

Os afídeos são insetos sugadores de seiva que atacam principalmente brotações e folhas novas de pessegueiros e de diversas outras espécies vegetais, porém o conhecimento sobre a afidofauna brasileira é escasso. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar as espécies de afídeos coletadas em pomares de pessegueiros (Prunus persica Batsch) e analisar os índices faunísticos de ocorrência e dominância. O experimento foi realizado de julho de 2005 a setembro de 2006 em seis pomares de pessegueiros da cultivar Chimarrita no município de Araucária, PR. O levantamento das espécies de afídeos foi realizado por meio de amostragens visuais em pessegueiros e armadilhas amarelas de água do tipo Mõericke. Brachycaudus persicae (Passerini, 1860) foi a única espécie de afídeo encontrada colonizando pessegueiros em Araucária, PR. Apesar da maioria das espécies de afídeos coletadas serem classificadas como raras, algumas podem ser consideradas colonizadoras potenciais de pessegueiros como Myzus persicae (Sulzer, 1776) que recebeu o status de comum ou intermediária em alguns dos pomares estudados. A flutuação populacional de afídeos apresentou uma correlação negativa com a precipitação pluviométrica e positiva com a temperatura e a umidade relativa do ar.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of bitter and sweet apricot (Prunus armeniaca L. ) kernels

The present study describes the in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of methanol and water extracts of sweet and bitterapricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) kernels. The antioxidant properties of apricot kernels were evaluated by determining radicalscavenging power, lipid peroxidation inhibition activity and total phenol content measured with a DPPH test, the thiocyanatemethod and the Folin method, respectively. In contrast to extracts of the bitter kernels, both the water and methanol extracts ofsweet kernels have antioxidant potential. The highest percent inhibition of lipid peroxidation (69%) and total phenolic content (7.9± 0.2 μg/mL) were detected in the methanol extract of sweet kernels (Hasanbey) and in the water extract of the same cultivar,respectively. The antimicrobial activities of the above extracts were also tested against human pathogenic microorganismsusing a disc-diffusion method, and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of each active extract were determined. Themost effective antibacterial activity was observed in the methanol and water extracts of bitter kernels and in the methanol extractof sweet kernels against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, the methanol extracts of the bitterkernels were very potent against the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (0.312 mg/mL MIC value). Significant anti-candidaactivity was also observed with the methanol extract of bitter apricot kernels against Candida albicans, consisting of a 14 mm indiameter of inhibition zone and a 0.625 mg/mL MIC value.