Hydrocarbons in Formicidae: influence of chemical footprints on ant behavioral strategies.

When an insect walks, it leaves chemical cues that derive from the arolium, a tarsal structure. These cues may contain important information about other species that occur in their community and can then mediate interactions of competition, predation, and information about resources with ants from their own colony. The compounds of these cues are released into the substrate in the form of chemical footprints. There are still few species studied, and little is known about the behavior of ants regarding these signals and how they use them in their interactions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the behavioral strategy of different ant species when confronted with chemical footprints left by other ants, as well as identify their compounds and their relationship with the cuticular hydrocarbon profile. The experiments were performed using a Y-maze, where in one of the arms, there were chemical footprints of their own species or of other species, and the other Y arm was footprint-free. The chemical compounds of footprints and cuticle were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results show that foragers of all species detect and respond to the presence of chemical cues in the form of footprints left by other ants. Foragers of all species followed footprints of individuals of the same species both nestmates and non-nestmates; however, Neoponera villosa avoided the footprints of Cephalotes borgmeieri, and C. borgmeieri avoided the footprints of the other two species. The chemical compositions of the cuticle and footprints are related to each other and are specific to each species.

Low Intraspecific Aggression Level, Cuticular Hydrocarbons, and Polydomy in the Bullet Ant.

Ants use chemical cues known as cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) for both intraspecific and interspecific recognition. These compounds serve ants in distinguishing between nestmates and non-nestmates, enabling them to coexist in polydomous colonies characterized by socially connected yet spatially separated nests. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the intraspecific aggression level between nestmates and non-nestmates of the bullet ant Paraponera clavata (Fabricius, 1775), analyze and compare their CHCs, and evaluate the occurrence of polydomy in this species. We conducted aggression tests between foragers, both in laboratory and field settings. To identify the chemical profiles, we utilized gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We marked the foragers found at nest entrances and subsequently recaptured these marked ants to validate workers exchange among nests. Across all nests, a low intraspecific aggression level was observed within the same area. However, a significant difference in aggression correlated to distance between nests. Analysis of the cuticular chemical profile of P. clavata unveiled colony-specific CHCs, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Notably, we observed instances of ants from certain nests entering or exiting different nests. This behavior, in conjunction with the observed low intraspecific aggression despite differences in CHCs suggests polydomy for this species. Polydomy can offer several benefits, including risk spreading, efficient exploitation of resources, potential for colony size increasing and reduced costs associated with foraging and competition.

Exploring the antiparasitic and antimicrobial potential of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi essential oil against fish and shrimp pathogens.

This study aimed to perform in vitro antiparasitic and antimicrobial tests with the essential oil (EO) of Schinus terebinthifolius against of fish and shrimp. The chemical composition of the EO of S. terebinthifolius was determined by gas chromatography. For the antiparasitic test, the protozoan Epistylis sp. obtained from parasitized Oreochromis niloticus was used, and exposed to different concentrations of EO (2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.25%), and control with 1% grain alcohol. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) test with EO of S. terebinthifolius evaluated the antimicrobial potential, with serial dilutions starting at 2% and control with 1% grain alcohol, using the strains of Aeromonas hydrophila (2.2 × 108 CFU mL-1), Edwardsiella tarda, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, V. harveyi, and V. alginolyticus (2.0 × 108 CFU mL-1). Chemical analysis revealed that the major EO compounds of S. terebinthifolius were δ-3-Carene (56.00%) and α-Pinene (16.89%). In the antiparasitic test, the concentration of 2% EO showed 100% efficacy against Epistylis sp. within 5 min. In the antimicrobial tests, the concentration of 2% EO was effective against all bacteria tested. The EO of S. terebinthifolius demonstrated antiparasitic and antimicrobial activity at a concentration of 2%, standing out as an alternative to conventional antibiotics.

Efficacy of essential oil from ginger (Zingiber officinale) for anesthesia and transport sedation of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus).

This study evaluated the anesthetic and sedative effects of the essential oil of Zingiber officinale (EOZO) on juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). Experiment 1 evaluated concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg L-1 EOZO for times of induction and recovery from anesthesia. Furthermore, hematological responses and residual components of EOZO in plasma were determined immediately after anesthesia. Experiment 2 evaluated the effect of 0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L-1 EOZO on water quality, blood variables and residual components of EOZO in plasma and tissues (muscle and liver) immediately after 2 h of transport. Survival was 100%. The three main compounds of EOZO [zingiberene (32.27%), ß-sesquiphellandrene (18.42%) and ß-bisabolene (13.93%)] were observed in animal plasma and tissues (muscle and liver) after anesthesia and transport, demonstrating a direct linear effect among the evaluated concentrations. The concentration of 200 mg L-1 EOZO promoted surgical anesthesia of pacu and prevented an increase in monocyte and neutrophil levels, yet did not alter other hematological parameters. The use of 30 mg L-1 EOZO has a sedative effect on juvenile pacu, thereby reducing oxygen consumption during transport. Furthermore, the use of 30 mg L-1 EOZO in transport water prevented an increase in hemoglobin and hematocrit, with minimal influences on other blood variables.

Antifungal activity of Caryocar brasiliense camb. Alone or along with antifungal agents against multidrug-resistant Candida auris.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Candida auris poses a severe global health threat, with many strains resistant to antifungal treatments, complicating therapy. Exploring natural compounds alongside conventional drugs offers promising therapeutic avenues. The antifungal potential of the ethanolic extract from Caryocar brasiliense (Cb-EE), a plant native to the Brazilian cerrado and renowned for its medicinal properties, was investigated against C. auris. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study examined the chemical composition, antifungal activity, mechanisms of action, and in vivo effects of Cb-EE. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Leaves of C. brasiliense were processed to extract ethanolic extract, which was evaluated for phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins. The antifungal capacity was determined through broth microdilution and checkerboard methods, assessing interaction with conventional antifungals. RESULTS: Cb-EE demonstrated fungistatic activity against various Candida species and Cryptococcus neoformans. Synergy with fluconazole and additive effects with other drugs were observed. Cb-EE inhibited C. auris growth, with the combination of fluconazole extending inhibition. Mechanistic studies revealed interference with fungal membranes, confirmed by sorbitol protection assays, cellular permeability tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Hemocompatibility and in vivo toxicity tests on Tenebrio molitor showed safety. CONCLUSION: Cb-EE, alone or in combination with fluconazole, effectively treated C. auris infections in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its prospective role as an antifungal agent against this emerging pathogen.

Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Càmbess.) Eichler leaves aqueous extract improves colon inflammation through mucogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in TNBS- induced IBD rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Cambess.) Eichler, a member of the Salicaceae family, holds a prominent place in traditional medicine across various cultures due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized different parts of the plant, including leaves, bark, and roots, to address a wide array of health conditions. Traditional uses of C. sylvestris var. lingua encompasses the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, wound healing, inflammation, and stomach ulcers. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated the plant's antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. This signifies the first scientific validation report for C. sylvestris var. lingua regarding its effectiveness against ulcerative colitis. The report aims to affirm the traditional use of this plant through pre-clinical experiments. AIM OF THE RESEARCH: This work uses an aqueous extract from C. sylvestris var. lingua leaves (AECs) to evaluate the acute anti-ulcerative colitis efficacy in rat and HT-29 (human colorectal cancer cell line) models. METHODS: To determine the secondary metabolites of AECs, liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) study was carried out. 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS, 30 mg/0.25 mL EtOH 30% v/v) was used as an enema to cause acute colitis. Three days were spent giving the C. sylvestris var. lingua extract orally by gavage at dosages of 3, 30, and 300 mg/kg. The same route was used to deliver distilled water to the vehicle and naïve groups. After the animals were sacrificed on the fourth day, intestinal tissues were taken for histological examination and evaluation of biochemical tests such as those measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite/nitrate, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Additionally, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 10 (IL-10), were conducted on the intestinal tissues. Additionally, an MTT assay was used to evaluate the effect of AECs on the viability of HT-29 cells. Additionally, a molecular docking study was carried out to compare some potential target proteins with identified chemicals found in AECs. RESULTS: LC-DAD analysis identified five compounds (caffeic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin) in AECs. Pre-administration of AECs (3; 30; 300 mg/kg) and mesalazine (500 mg/kg) reduced macroscopic scores (55%, 47%, 45%, and 52%, p < 0.001) and ulcerated areas (70.3%, 70.5%, 57%, and 56%, p < 0.001), respectively. It also increased SOD, GSH, and CAT activities (p < 0.01), while decreasing MDA (p < 0.001), nitrite/nitrate (p < 0.05), and MPO (p < 0.001) activities compared to the colitis group. Concerning inflammatory markers, significant modulations were observed: AECs (3, 30, and 300 mg/kg) lowered levels of IL-1ß and TNF-α (p < 0.001) and increased IL-10 levels (p < 0.001) compared to the colitis groups. The viability of HT-29 cells was suppressed by AECs with an IC50 of 195.90 ± 0.01 µg/mL (48 h). During the molecular docking analysis, quercetin, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid demonstrated consistent binding affinities, forming stable interactions with the 3w3l (TLR8) and the 3ds6 (MAPK14) complexes. CONCLUSION: These results imply that the intestinal mucogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of the C. sylvestris var. lingua leaf extract may be involved in its therapeutic actions for ulcerative colitis. The results of the in silico study point to the possibility of quercetin and ellagic acid interacting with P38 and TLR8, respectively, in a beneficial way.

Preclinical safety evaluation of the ethanolic extract from campomanesia guazumifolia (cambess.) O. Berg fruits peels in rats.

The toxicological potential of the ethanolic extract from Campomanesia guazumifolia (EECG), a species traditionally recognised for its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and hypercholesterolemic properties, was investigated in acute and subacute toxicity models in rats. In the acute toxicity test, 2000 mg/kg of EECG was administered orally in female rats, while male and female rats received 250, 500 or 750 mg/kg of EECG for the subacute toxicity test. No evidence of toxicity was observed in the animals acutely exposed, indicating that the LD50 is above 2000 mg/kg. However, repeated exposure to this extract resulted in alterations in important biochemical parameters indicative of hepatic and renal toxicity, including AST, ALT, creatinine, urea, and cholesterol. Additionally, some hematological parameters were also changed by the treatment. EECG demonstrated low toxicological potential. Nevertheless, given the observed changes in liver and kidney enzymes, further investigations into the protective effects of this extract following repeated administration are warranted.

Biodiesel production potential of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms: comparison of collection sites and different alcohol transesterifications.

Renewable resources have stood out as raw materials in producing biofuels. This study aimed to evaluate the parameters of alcohol transesterification (ethanol and methanol) and localization of collection of aquatic macrophyte Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms in the production of biodiesel by in situ transesterification. E. crassipes was collected in Dourados and Corumbá (Brazil) municipalities. The fatty acid ester composition of the biodiesel was characterized and quantified by gas chromatography. The biodiesel properties were estimated using the BiodieselAnalyzer© program prediction. The ethyl transesterification resulted in higher yields, but the localization of collection was the most relevant parameter in biodiesel production according to the Permutation Multivariate Analysis of Variance. The simulation and comparison of the physical-chemical properties of E. crassipes biodiesel and BD 100 (commercial biodiesel) were promising for commercial application.

Mangaba (hancornia speciosa): exploring potent antifungal and antioxidant properties in lyophilised fruit pulp extract through in vitro analysis.

Mangaba is a fruit native to Brazil, rich in bioactive compounds. To evaluate physicochemical composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant and antifungal activity of mangaba fruit pulp. Moisture, ash, protein, lipid, energy values and phenolic compounds were determined. Antioxidant activity was determined by capture of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Evaluation of antifungal activity was performed by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration, according to protocols M07-A9 and M27-S3, and minimum fungicidal concentration. Freeze-dried mangaba pulp presented high levels of carbohydrates, low levels of lipids, and high energy density. Phenolic analysis demonstrated that chlorogenic acid was found in the highest concentration, followed by p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid. Mangaba extract showed antioxidant activity like BHT. Mangaba extract inhibited the growth of Candida albicans (ATCC 90028), Cryptococcus gattii (AFLP4), Candida guilliermondii (ATCC 6260) and Candida albicans (MYA 2876). Freeze-dried mangaba inhibited fungal activity associated with antioxidant effect due to presence of phenolic compounds.

Effect of thiamethoxam (organophosphate) on the flies and beetle visitation and cadaveric decomposition process

ABSTRACT Entomofauna associated with decaying cadavers may be useful in criminal investigation, either through the development of immature insects of interest or through entomological succession in corpses. These factors may vary if the insects are exposed to toxic substances that can modify the insect's developmental cycle, as well as its own occurrence, which would imply significant changes in the results of any investigation. However, there are few studies on how contamination by toxic compounds can affect the action of insects on carcasses and their consequence for forensic expertise. Therefore, this study aimed to test the hypothesis that the normal visitation of flies and beetles is altered in insecticide-contaminated carcasses. The experiment was carried out in a sugarcane plantation, using pig carcasses contaminated with insecticide and the same number of carcasses without any type of contamination as a control. In all experiments, the contaminated carcasses reached the final phase of decomposition in a longer time than the uncontaminated carcasses of the control group. A total of 2.767 specimens were collected and identified, 2.103 individuals from the order Diptera and 664 from the order Coleoptera. There was a significant geometric regression adjustment during the decomposition phases only for the control group, different from the contaminated carcasses in which this pattern did not occur. Results show that contamination by insecticide alters decomposition time and phase, altering the action of flies and beetles, affecting the abundance, composition of species as well as their activities, which can alter the data used by experts in criminal experts.

Cytotoxicity and the bioconversion strategy of Aristolochia spp

Aristolochia plants are notable from an ethnopharmacological viewpoint, but the relevance of these species for medicinal purposes has been debated because of their inherent toxicity. The convergence of these contrasting realities can be readily achieved using bioconversion methods, which have been shown to be useful tools for numerous applications, including the detoxification of biomass. In this context, methanolic extracts of leaves from Aristolochia triangularis and Aristolochia gibertii, as well as the feces of Battus polydamas larvae fed with leaves from these plants, were prepared, and their cytotoxic activities were evaluated on a human fibroblast cell line (GM07492). The leaf extracts were found to be cytotoxic, leading to reductions of 42.1 and 33.8% on cell viability, respectively, while the fecal extracts were considered inactive. In addition to evidencing the cytotoxicity of A. triangularis and A. gibertii, these findings demonstrated a potential bioconversion strategy for obtaining aristolochiaceous extracts with reduced toxicity using the larvae of a specialist phytophagous insect, thus renewing expectations in relation to the pharmacological importance of Aristolochia spp. The results were also ecologically relevant, as B. polydamas larvae were found to be able to detoxify compounds from host plants.(AU)

Fatty acids profile, atherogenic and thrombogenic health lipid indices in the meat of lambs that received canola grain / Perfil de ácidos graxos, índices de lipídios aterogênicos e trombogênicos em carne de cordeiros alimentados com grãos de canola

This study evaluated the fatty acid composition and qualitative characteristics of meat from lambs feed in feedlot with increasing levels of canola grain. Meat obtained from 27 lambs fed 0, 8 and 16% inclusion of canola grain were analyzed. There was a reduction in the content of saturated fatty acids (SFA): lauric, heptadecanoic, and stearic; and unsaturated fatty acids (UFA): palmitoleic, oleic, and eicosatrienoic, with the increasing levels of canola grain. There was a linear reduction for the ω3 acid and the ω3: ω6 ratio, while the ω6: ω3 ratio increased. But the values observed for this ratio (ω6: ω3) were lower than 4, which is considered a satisfactory value. There was a slight increase (~2%) for the thrombogenicity index and atherogenicity index with the inclusion of canola grain. There was a reduction in the hypocholesterolemic: hypercholesterolemic ratio, with mean values of 2.09 for the diet with 0% inclusion, and 2.06 for 8 and 16% inclusion of canola. Although the inclusion of canola grain for lambs decreased the content of some UFA, reflecting alterations in the correlated nutritional properties, there is a reduction of SFA. The results for instrumental analysis, proximate composition, and sensory acceptance of the lamb meat were similar among the treatments.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a composição dos ácidos graxos e as características qualitativas da carne de cordeiros terminados com níveis crescentes de canola grão na dieta. Foram estudadas amostras de carne provenientes de 27 cordeiros, confinados por 45 dias e alimentados com 00, 08 e 16% de inclusão de canola grão. Houve efeito para os ácidos graxos saturados (AGS): laurico, heptadecanoico e esteárico; ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (AGMI): palmitoleico e oleico; e ácidos graxos polinsaturados (AGPI): eicosatrienoico. Estes ácidos reduziram à medida que os níveis da canola grão aumentaram. Para os AGMI, houve efeito com maior concentração no músculo dos cordeiros alimentados sem a canola grão (49,80%). Houve uma redução linear para o ácido ω3 e para a relação ω3:ω6, enquanto que a relação ω6:ω3 aumentou. A canola grão influenciou o índice de aterogenicidade, com média de 0,57 para o tratamento com 0% de inclusão e 0,58 para os tratamentos com 8% e 16% de inclusão. Observou-se aumento linear para o índice de trombogenicidade com a inclusão da canola grão, cujas médias foram, respectivamente, 0,16, 0,17 e 0,18 para os tratamentos 0%, 8% e 16% de inclusão. Houve redução para a relação hipocolesterolêmicos-hipercolesterolêmicos, com médias de 2,09 para a dieta com 0% de inclusão, e 2,06 para 8% e 16% de inclusão da canola em grão na dieta. A canola grão não influenciou a análise instrumental, composição centesimal e atributos sensoriais da carne.(AU)

Toxicological properties of an aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves, using the brine shrimp lethality and Allium cepa bioassays / Propriedades toxicológicas de um extrato aquoso de folhas de Aristolochia triangularis utilizando os bioensaios de letalidade com Artemia salina e Allium cepa

ABSTRACT: The aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves showed activity against Artemia salina larvae, with an LD50 of 370.6 µg/mL. In experiments with Allium cepa seeds, the extract caused a 51.26% reduction in the germination index, inhibited mean root growth, and was cytotoxic at concentrations of 668 and 2,000 µg/mL. Its antioxidant activity was additionally assessed in this research and the ferric reducing antioxidant power value was found to be 391.2 µM/g. Such health-beneficial property can be attributed partly to the total phenolic content, spectrophotometrically determined as 52.67 mg/g. The occurrence of cytotoxicity suggested caution when consuming teas from A. triangularis leaves for medicinal purposes, and equally reveals the need for further studies to investigate their adverse effects.

RESUMO: O extrato aquoso de folhas de Aristolochia triangularis mostrou atividade sobre larvas de Artemia salina, com um DL50 de 370,6 µg/mL. Em experimentos com sementes de Allium cepa, o extrato provocou uma redução de 51,26% no índice de germinação, inibiu o crescimento radicular médio e foi citotóxico nas concentrações de 668 e 2.000 µg/mL. Sua atividade antioxidante foi adicionalmente avaliada nesta pesquisa e o valor de poder redutor de íons férrico foi de 391,2 µM/g. Tal propriedade benéfica para a saúde pode ser parcialmente atribuída ao conteúdo de compostos fenólicos totais, espectrofotometricamente determinada como 52,67 mg/g. A ocorrência de citotoxicidade sugeriu cautela ao consumir chás de folhas de A. triangularis para propósitos medicinais, e igualmente revela a necessidade por estudos adicionais para investigar os efeitos adversos deles.

Variation of cuticular chemical compounds in three species of Mischocyttarus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) eusocial wasps

Abstract The social wasps have a remarkable system of organization in which chemical communication mediate different behavioral interactions. Among the compounds involved in this process, cuticular hydrocarbons are considered the main signals for nestmate recognition, caste differentiation, and fertility communication. The aims of this study were to describe the cuticular chemical compounds of the species Mischocyttarus consimilis, Mischocyttarus bertonii, and Mischocyttarus latior, and to test whether these chemical compounds could be used to evaluate differences and similarities between Mischocyttarus species, using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Workers from these three species presented a variety of hydrocarbons ranging from C17 to C37, and among the compounds identified, the most representative were branched alkanes, linear alkanes and alkenes. The results revealed quantitative and qualitative differences among the hydrocarbon profiles, as confirmed by discriminant analysis. This study supports the hypothesis that cuticular chemical profiles can be used as parameters to identify interspecific and intercolony differences in Mischocyttarus, highlighting the importance of these compounds for differentiation of species and populations.

Genotoxic and mutagenic effects of polluted surface water in the midwestern region of Brazil using animal and plant bioassays

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate DNA damage in animal and plant cells exposed to water from the Água Boa stream (Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil) by using bioassays, and to identify the chemical compounds in the water to determine the water quality in the area. Through the cytotoxicity bioassay with Allium cepa, using micronucleus test, and comet assay, using Astyanax altiparanae fish, the results indicated that biological samples were genetically altered. Micronuclei were observed in erythrocytes of A. altiparanae after exposure to water from locations close to industrial waste discharge. The highest DNA damage observed with the comet assay in fish occurred with the exposure to water from locations where the presence of metals (Cu, Pb, Cd, Ni) was high, indicating the possibility of genotoxic effects of these compounds. Thus, these results reinforce the importance of conducting genotoxicity tests for developing management plans to improve water quality, and indicate the need for waste management before domestic and industrial effluents are released into the rivers and streams.

Avaliação das atividades antiproliferativa e antioxidante em frutos de Campomanesia pubescens / Evaluation of antioxidant and antiproliferative activities in fruits of Campomanesia pubescens

A investigação química dos extratos bioativos dos frutos de Campomanesia pubescens (Myrtaceae)resultou no isolamento de duas chalconas. Os compostos isolados foram identificados pelas análises espectroscópicas (1H, 13C e 2D RMN) e, por comparação com os dados descritos na literatura. A capacidade antioxidante dos extratos e frações foi determinada utilizando-se os ensaios de capacidade de absorção de oxigênio radical (ORAC-FL) e de DPPH; e os teores de fenólicos solúveis foram medidos utilizando-seo reagente de Folin-Ciocalteau. Os efeitos antiproliferativos dos extratos e de isolados de chalconas 1 e2 foram determinados in vitro contra as seguintes células cancerosas humanas U251 (glioma), UACC-62 (melanoma), MCF-7 (mama), NC1-ADR/RES (ovário resistente), 786,0 (rim), NCI-H460 (pulmão),PC-3 (próstata), OVCAR-3 (ovário), HT-29 (cólon) e K562 (leucemia), e contra linhagem celular não cancerígena VERO. O extrato hexânico e os compostos isolados de chalconas 1 e 2 demonstraram efeito antiproliferativo potente contra linhagens de células cancerosas com valores de inibição de crescimento total (TGI) menores dos aqueles observados na linhagem celular controle. A atividade mais elevada das chalconas 1 e 2 foi detectada nas células MCF-7, PC-3 e HT-29.

Chemical investigation on the bioactive extracts from fruits of Campomanesia pubescens (Myrtaceae)resulted in the isolation of two chalcones. The isolated compounds were identified by means of spectroscopicanalysis (1H, 13C and 2D NMR), and by comparing with the data reported in the specific literature.Antioxidant capacity of extracts and fractions was determined using the oxygen radical absorbancecapacity (ORAC-FL) and DPPH assays; and the total soluble phenolic contents were measured by usingFolin-Ciocalteau reagent. The anti-proliferative effects of the extracts and of the chalcone isolates 1 and2 were determined in vitro against human cancer cells lineages U251 (glioma), UACC-62 (melanoma),MCF-7 (breast), NC1-ADR/RES (ovarian-resistant), 786.0 (kidney), NCI-H460 (lung), PC-3 (prostate),OVCAR-3 (ovarian), HT-29 (colon) and K562 (leukemia), and against non-cancerous cell line VERO.Hexanic extract and chalcone isolated compounds 1 and 2 showed potent antiproliferative effect againstcancer cell lineages with lower total growth inhibition (TGI) values than those found in control cell line.The highest activity of the chalcones 1 and 2 was observed against the MCF-7, PC-3 and HT-29 cell lines.

Phenolic compounds and antioxidant, antimicrobial and antimycobacterial activities of Serjania erecta Radlk. (Sapindaceae)

Serjania erecta Radlk.(Sapindaceae) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Brazil. We assayed the ethanolic extract of leaves and roots against seven microorganisms. The REMA (Resazurin Microtiter Assay) assay was used to measure the biological activity in vitro against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and our results showed moderate activity of the ethanolic extract. On the other hand S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, S. setubal, C. albicans, S. cerevisiae and E. coli revealed that the leaves and roots of S. erecta inhibited the growth of all microorganisms. The ethanolic extracts of leaves and roots showed low values of antioxidant activities. The ethanolic extracts of leaves and roots were analyzed by chromatographic and spectrometric methods. (-)-Epicatechin, kaempferol aglycone and five glycoside derivates were isolated: kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside from the roots and kaempferol, kaempferol 3,7-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside, vitexin, isovitexin and (-)-epicatechin in the leaves. This is the first chemical study reported in the literature about this specie.

Serjania erecta Radlk. (Sapindaceae) é uma planta medicinal utilizada no Brasil. Analisamos o extrato etanólico de folhas e raízes para sete microorganismos. O REMA (Ensaio de Microtitulação Resazurina) foi utilizado para medir a atividade biológica in vitro contra o Mycobacterium tuberculosis e nossos resultados mostraram atividade moderada do extrato etanólico. Por outro lado, ensaios com S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, S. setubal, C. albicans, S. cerevisiae e E. coli revelaram que as folhas e raízes de S. erecta inibiram crescimento em todos os microorganismos. Os extratos etanólicos de folhas e raízes apresentaram valores baixos de atividade antioxidante. Os extratos etanólicos de folhas e raízes foram analisados por métodos cromatográficos e espectroscópicos. (-)-Epicatequina, canferol aglicona e cinco derivados glicosídicos foram isolados: canferol -3-O-α-L-ramnopiranosídeo, canferol-3-O-α-L-ramnopiranosil-(1→6)-β-D-glucopiranosídeo a partir das raízes e canferol, canferol 3,7-di-O-α-L-ramnopiranosídeo, vitexina, isovitexina e (-) epicatequina nas folhas. Este é o primeiro estudo químico na literatura sobre esta espécie.

Atividade antioxidante de Hibiscus sabdariffa L. em função do espaçamento entre plantas e da adubação orgânica / Antioxidant activity of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in function of spacing between plants and organic fertilization

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos do espaçamento entre plantas na linha e da aplicação ou não de cama-de-frango em cobertura no solo, na atividade antioxidante, teor total de fenóis e flavonóides em extrato etanólico e extrato aquoso quente de folhas de rosela (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). Os tratamentos consistiram de cinco espaçamentos entre plantas (0,30; 0,35; 0,40; 0,45 e 0,50m) e do uso ou não de cama-de-frango em cobertura do solo, na dose de 10t ha-1, arranjados como fatorial 5x2, no delineamento blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os teores de flavonóides e fenóis totais aumentaram no extrato etanólico (18 por cento e 11 por cento, respectivamente) e no extrato aquoso quente (16 por cento e 11 por cento, respectivamente) entre a aplicação ou não de cama-de-frango em cobertura no solo. A atividade antioxidante foi influenciada significativamente pelo método de obtenção dos extratos, sendo no extrato etanólico 263 por cento maior que o resultado obtido para o extrato aquoso quente.

The purpose of this paper was to analyze the effects of plant spacing within rows by means of applying or not applying chicken-manure to the soil cover in the antioxidant activity, total phenolic and flavonoids in ethanolic leaves extract and hot aqueous extract of roselle. The treatments consisted of five different spaces between plants (0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45 and 0.50m) and the use or non-use of chicken litter broadcasted on soil surface at 10 ton ha-1, in a 5x2 factorial arrangement in a randomized block design with four replications. The flavonoids levels and total phenolic increased on ethanolic leaves extract (18 percent and 11 percent, respectively) and hot aqueous extract (16 percent and 11 percent, respectively) between applying or not applying chicken-manure to the soil cover. Antioxidant activity was significantly influenced by the way of obtaining extracts, being the ethanolic extract 263 percent higher than the results obtained by the hot aqueous extract.

Alface e jateikaá em cultivo solteiro e consorciado: produção e atividade antioxidante / Lettuce and jateikaá in single culture and intercropped: production and antioxidant activity

Conduziu-se este estudo, com o objetivo de avaliar o crescimento e a produção de alface (Lactuca sativa L.) e jateikaá (Achyrocline alata (Kunth) DC.) em cultivo solteiro e em consórcio. Os tratamentos em estudo foram três e quatro fileiras de alface por canteiro, duas fileiras de jateikaá espaçadas de 35 cm e 50 cm, quatro fileiras de alface alternadas com duas fileiras de jateikaá (A25J50) e três fileiras de alface alternadas com duas fileiras de jateikaá (A35J35). Foi utilizado o delineamento blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Foram avaliadas as massas frescas e secas, diâmetro e altura das cabeças de alface, massas frescas e secas das inflorescências e das partes aéreas sem inflorescências de jateikaá. Realizou-se o teste antioxidante para amostras de inflorescências de jateikaá nos tratamentos estudados. O tipo de cultivo e os espaçamentos entre fileiras não influenciaram significativamente as características avaliadas para alface e para o jateikaá, com exceção das massas fresca e seca de inflorescências, cuja produção foi superior no espaçamento de 50 cm. A altura média obtida para as plantas de jateikaá foi de 1,12 m. A razão de área equivalente para o consórcio A25J50 foi de 1,87 e para o A35J35 foi de 2,10. No caso de recomendação agronômica, optar-se-ía pelo consórcio A35J35. Observou-se atividade antioxidante em todas as amostras analisadas, sendo que o padrão de inibição apresentou semelhança tanto para cultivo solteiro quanto para o consorciado, demonstrando que os constituintes químicos do jateikaá apresentaram um alto potencial antioxidante.

This study aimed to evaluate the production of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) e jateikaá (Achyrocline alata (Kunth) DC.) as a single culture and intercropped. The treatments in study were three and four rows of lettuce and two rows of jateikaá spaced 35 cm or 50 cm, four rows of lettuce alternated with two rows of jateikaá (A25J50) and three alternated rows of lettuce with two rows of jateikaá (A35J35). The experiment design was randomized blocks, with four replications. Fresh and dry masses, diameter and height of the lettuce heads and height, fresh and dry masses of inflorescence and aerial parts without inflorescence of jateikaá were evaluated. The antioxidant activity of jateikaá's inflorescence was studied. The culture type and spacing between rows did not influence the characteristics evaluated for lettuce and for jateikaá, with exception of the fresh and dry masses of inflorescences, with production was superior in the 50 cm spacing of plants with height average of 1.12 m for the jateikaá plants. The land equivalent ratio, for intercropping A25J50 was 1.88 and for the A35J35 was 2.05. Intercropping A35J35 might be recommended. Antioxidant activity was observed in all samples. The inhibition standard was similar for both single culture and intercropping, demonstrating that the chemical constituent of jateikaá had presented a high antioxidant potential.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil of Campomanesia adamantium (Cambess.) O. Berg (Guavira) / Cromatografia Gasosa-Espectrometria de Massas (CG-EM) e avaliação da atividade antioxidante e antimicrobiana do óleo essencial de Campomanesia adamantium (Cambess.) O. Berg (guavira)

The essential oils from Campomanesia adamantium (Cambess.) O. Berg leaves, collected in the reproductive (flowering and fruit-bearing) and vegetative stages, were characterized by GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry). A total of 95 compounds of the essential oils were identified. In the reproductive stage (flowering) the major constituents were monoterpenes (limonene, α-pinene and β-pinene) while during the vegetative stage the major constituents were the sesquiterpenes (bicyclogermacrene and globulol). The essential oil of the reproductive stage shows high antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans, and all show moderate activity against Escherichia coli. The essential oils were also evaluated for their radical-scavenging activity by DPPH. The chemogeographical variations of the oil composition from the four distinct localities studied all contained α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, linalool, β-caryophyllene, germacrene D and bicyclogermacrene, however the samples from Jardim city contained neither limonene nor linalool.

Os óleos essenciais obtidos das folhas de Campomanesia adamantium foram caracterizados através da combinação de CG-EM e índice de retenção, sendo identificado um total de 95 compostos. Na floração as substâncias majoritárias foram monoterpenos (limoneno, α-pineno e β-pineno) e durante o estágio vegetativo as substâncias majoritárias foram sesquiterpenos (biciclogermacreno e globulol). Os óleos essenciais obtidos da floração e frutificação mostraram alta atividade contra Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa e Candida albicans e moderada contra Escherichia coli em todos os estágios. Foi avaliada a atividade antioxidante dos óleos essenciais usando o método do DPPH. O óleo essencial das 4 cidades mostrou a presença de α-pineno, β-pineno, limoneno, linalol, β-cariofileno, germacreno D e biciclogermacreno, mas a amostra da cidade de Jardim não apresentou limoneno e linalol.