Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is an infectious disease caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Pharmacological antiretroviral therapy, along with therapeutic monitoring of drug plasma concentrations, facilitates adequate and effective follow-up in each patient. Our main objective was to develop and validate a high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV) bioanalytical method for the simultaneous quantification of plasma concentrations of three commonly used antiretrovirals in Colombia: efavirenz, lopinavir, and ritonavir. This method is intended for therapeutic drug monitoring in persons living with HIV locally or in developing countries. The method is selective, specific, accurate, precise, and stable over the concentration range of 250 and 20,000 ng mL -1 for the drugs. It was successfully applied to measure the plasma levels of efavirenz, lopinavir, and ritonavir in HIV patients, which ranged from 251.0 ± 10.4 to 7186.2 ± 10.2, 8188.2 ± 5.9 to 15,312.5 ± 6.6, and 246.1 ± 6.5 to 1189.0 ± 6.4 ng mL-1, respectively. HIV. . (HIV) therapy followup follow up patient highperformance high performance HPLCUV HPLC UV (HPLC-UV Colombia efavirenz lopinavir countries selective specific accurate precise 25 20000 20 000 20,00 1 - drugs patients 2510 251 0 251. 104 10 4 10. 71862 7186 2 7186. 102 10.2 81882 8188 8188. 59 5 9 5. 153125 15 312 15,312. 66 6 6.6 2461 246 246. 65 6. 11890 1189 1189. 64 mL1, mL1 1, mL-1 respectively (HIV 2000 00 20,0 718 818 15312 31 15,312 24 118 mL- 200 20, 71 81 1531 3 15,31 11 7 8 153 15,3 15,

Analysis of variance (ANOVA)-simultaneous component analysis (ASCA) is a method of choice for factorial design studies of environmental impacts on plant metabolomes and can be used to quantitatively carry out this comparative analysis. The impacts of seven mixture design extractor systems made up of ethanol, dichloromethane, and hexane and their 1:1 binary and 1:1:1 ternary solvents for several replicate experiments (n = 3, 4, 5) were assessed using ASCA models determined from Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), near-infrared (NIR), and UV-Vis spectroscopic measurements on yerba mate leaf extracts. This analysis considered two-factor effects: secondary sexual dimorphism (male and female plants) and cultivation systems (monoculture and agroforestry), as well as their interaction effect. The three binary solvents were found to be more efficient extractor systems for all four detectors as they found 83 main and interaction effects significant at or above the 95% confidence level compared with only 47 for the pure solvent extracts. Binary solvent extracts resulted in averages between 44.04 and 86.61% for the ASCA total effect variances compared with 40.62 to 71.07% for pure extractors. Of the 60 significant effects found for experiments with 5 repetitions 53 or 88% were obtained with only triplicate determinations. The choice of spectroscopic technique and solvent system have large impacts on metabolomic analysis results. ANOVAsimultaneous ANOVA simultaneous (ASCA ethanol dichloromethane 11 1 1: 111 1:1: n 3 4 Fouriertransform Fourier transform FTIR, FTIR , (FTIR) nearinfrared near NIR, NIR (NIR) UVVis UV Vis twofactor two factor male plants monoculture agroforestry, agroforestry agroforestry) 8 95 4404 44 04 44.0 8661 86 61 86.61 4062 40 62 40.6 7107 71 07 71.07 extractors 6 88 determinations results (FTIR (NIR 9 440 0 44. 866 86.6 406 40. 710 7 71.0 86. 71.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes are commonly used as an environmental protection liner due to their good chemical and mechanical resistances and low cost. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an essential issue in durability studies for pond applications. This study evaluated a 1.5-mm thick HDPE geomembrane exposed to ultraviolet fluorescent radiation for 8760 h in a laboratory and thermoanalytical and physical analyses were conducted towards the understanding of its performance after exposure. According to the results, although the geomembrane maintained the ductile behavior, it showed a 52.48% final decrease in stress crack resistance (SCR) compared to virgin SCR. Moreover, a considerable antioxidant depletion occurred after 8760 h exposure shown by the Std. OIT (standard oxidative-induction time) results, demonstrating a Std. OIT value decrease of 89.19% compared to the virgin Std. OIT. Such a behavior contributed to the susceptibility of thermal effects in the DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) curves and the losses observed in the SCR values, attesting the geomembrane’s oxidative degradation mechanism occurred and changed the polymer’s structure. Highdensity High density (HDPE cost UV (UV applications 1.5mm 15mm mm 1.5 1 5 876 results 5248 52 48 52.48 (SCR Moreover Std standard oxidativeinduction induction time 8919 89 19 89.19 differential calorimetry values s polymers polymer structure 5mm 15 1. 87 524 4 52.4 891 8 89.1 52. 89.

Two novel alkyl thiophene-modified pyrene derivatives (1)-(2) were created and synthesized using palladium-catalyzed Stille coupling processes and Friedel-Crafts reaction of pyrene. The polycyclic aromatic groups of the thiophene-modified pyrene were oxidized with Ag[Al(OC(CF3)3)4] to provide the insensitive radical cations 1•+-2•+ based on the alkyl thiophene-modified pyrene derivatives. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, were used to investigate their structures and properties. The pyrene moieties were the primary location of the electron spin distribution, with a little overflow onto the outer thiophene moieties. Due to the different substituent groups, free radicals 1•+ 2•+ exhibit some different properties. Compound 1•+ is the most extensive thiophene-modified pyrene radical cation that has been reported. These species are anticipated to have wide-ranging potential in the areas of optoelectronic materials and semiconductors. thiophenemodified modified 12 1 2 (1)-(2 palladiumcatalyzed palladium catalyzed FriedelCrafts Friedel Crafts AgAlOCCF334 AgAlOCCF Ag Al OC CF3 3 4 CF Ag[Al(OC(CF3)3)4 1•+2•+ 1•+-2• NMR, NMR , (NMR) EPR, EPR (EPR) UVVis UV Vis spectroscopy DFT (DFT calculations properties distribution 1• 2• reported wideranging wide ranging semiconductors (1)-( AgAlOCCF33 Ag[Al(OC(CF3)3) 1•+2• 1•+-2 (NMR (EPR (1)- AgAlOCCF3 Ag[Al(OC(CF3)3 1•+2 1•+- (1) Ag[Al(OC(CF3) (1 Ag[Al(OC(CF3 ( Ag[Al(OC(CF

Nanoparticles of TiO2 doped with low amount of Fe were synthesized from natural ilmenite obtained from alluvial gold mine wastes. The obtained TiO2 were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance, thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results confirm the formation of mesoporous TiO2 nanoparticles in anatase phase with 0.05 wt.% of iron possibly replacing some titanium places. All the characterizations were performed to the synthesized solid and the reference materials (TiO2 anatase and Degussa P25). The photocatalytic activity of both the synthesized solid and references were evaluated in the photo-oxidation of cyanide in aqueous medium under UV illumination. An experimental design type Box-Behnken was performed choosing three different parameters: the initial concentration of cyanide (50, 150 and 250 ppm) the catalyst load (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 g L-1) and the oxygen source. The percentage of cyanide conversion was chosen as response in the design obtaining as optimal conditions [CN-]0 = 50 ppm, catalyst load = 0.6 g L-1 and air bubbling. Under these conditions it was reached 32, 32 and 89% of cyanide conversion for Fe-TiO2 synthesized, TiO2 anatase and Degussa P25, respectively. TiO wastes Xray X ray XRD, XRD , (XRD) XRF, XRF (XRF) Fouriertransform Fourier transform FTIR, FTIR (FTIR) UVVis Vis reflectance analysisdifferential analysis differential TGA/DSC, TGADSC TGA/DSC TGA DSC (TGA/DSC) N adsorptiondesorption adsorption desorption isotherms TEM (TEM XPS. XPS . (XPS) 005 0 05 0.0 wt wt. places (TiO P25. P25 P P25) photooxidation photo oxidation illumination BoxBehnken Box Behnken parameters 50, (50 15 25 ppm 0.1, 01 1 (0.1 5 0. 10 1. L1 L source CN0 CN [CN-] 06 6 L- bubbling 3 89 FeTiO2 FeTiO Fe-TiO respectively (XRD (XRF (FTIR (TGA/DSC (XPS 00 P2 (5 2 0.1 (0. [CN- 8 ( (0 [CN

The present work reports the in situ fabrication of Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) in polystyrene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) over pre-patterned hydrophobic stripes on a hydrophilic glass surface. Microcontact printing (μCP) using octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) as “ink” was used to obtain these chemically modified substrates. A comparison of the results of the PS-b-P2VP self-assembly over a bare glass substrate and a pre-patterned glass substrate demonstrated the influence of the pattern on the film morphology. Polymeric films of Ag+ and PS-b-P2VP were prepared on a pre-patterned substrate and heated at 150 °C to enable the self-reconstruction of the polymeric matrix and the in situ formation of AgNPs (average particle size of approximately 100 nm). The AgNP/PS-b-P2VP thin films were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. The results demonstrate that the concentration of the solutions of Ag+/PS-b-P2VP used to prepare the films strongly influences the morphologies and dispersion of AgNPs. Moreover, the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) activity of the fabricated polymer nanocomposites using Nile Blue as a molecular probe shows the importance of the chemical modification of the substrate in the enhancement of the SERS signal. (AgNPs polystyrenebpoly2vinylpyridine polystyrenebpolyvinylpyridine polystyrene b poly 2 vinylpyridine polystyrene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine PSbP2VP PSbPVP PS P2VP P VP (PS-b-P2VP prepatterned pre patterned surface μCP (μCP OTS (OTS ink “ink substrates selfassembly self assembly morphology 15 C selfreconstruction reconstruction average 10 nm. nm . nm) AgNP/PSbP2VP AgNPPSbP2VP AgNPPSbPVP AgNP/PS AgNP UVVis UV Vis microscopy Ag+/PSbP2VP AgPSbP2VP AgPSbPVP Ag+/PS Moreover surfaceenhanced enhanced (SERS signal polystyrenebpoly PSbP PVP 1 AgNPPSbP AgNPPS AgPSbP AgPS

In the present study a spectrophotometric method for Cr(VI) determination in organic fertilizers, especially those from tanning industry residues, is proposed. Conditions for chromium extraction, extract clean-up and analytical characteristics of the method were established. The method is based on the complexation of Cr(VI) with 1,5-diphenylcarbazide (DPC) in acid medium (pH 2.0). A mixture of NaOH and Na2CO3 solution at 0.125 and 0.07 mol L–1 (pH 12), respectively, and heating at 90 °C for 60 min were the best conditions for chromium extraction. Florisil and activated charcoal were tested for clean-up of the extract, with activated charcoal being effective. Under the established conditions, the calibration linear range is up to 2500 μg L–1 Cr(VI), the results obtained are in agreement with the value of a certified reference material (CRM041), precision is better than 5% for five consecutive determinations of a solution at 1000 μg L–1 of Cr(VI) and the limit of quantification is 1.62 μg g–1. In can be concluded that the method is robust, accurate and precise, and can be easily applied for the determination of Cr(VI) in routine analysis, since it complies with legislation of most countries regarding the maximum allowed concentration of 2 μg g–1 of Cr(VI). CrVI Cr VI Cr(VI fertilizers residues proposed extraction cleanup clean 1,5diphenylcarbazide 15diphenylcarbazide diphenylcarbazide 1,5 1 5 DPC (DPC pH 2.0. 20 2.0 . 0 2.0) NaCO Na CO Na2CO 0125 125 0.12 007 07 0.0 L1 L L– 12, 12 , 12) respectively 9 C 6 effective 250 CrVI, CRM041, CRM041 CRM (CRM041) 100 162 62 1.6 g1 g robust precise analysis g– CrVI. 5diphenylcarbazide 15 1, 2. 012 0.1 00 0. 25 CRM04 (CRM041 10 16 1. 01 CRM0 (CRM04 (CRM0 (CRM

Abstract: There is evidence of the high use of the neonicotinoid insecticide thiamethoxam, in tropical crops, for its effectiveness in the control of soil and plant pests. The objective of this study was to know the residuality and concentration of thiamethoxam in the papaya agroecosystem, in the main papaya fruit producing zone in the central area of the Gulf of Mexico. It was carried out during a papaya growing cycle with watermelon rotation; the taking of samples was according to the technique established by the NOM -AA-103-1988 for leaves and for fruit the NMX -FF-041-1996 by the method of quartering in papaya and watermelon, the samples were analyzed with a HPLC-UV, the data obtained were statistically analyzed by parametric and non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis tests. The presence of thiamethoxam was found in papaya and watermelon cultivation plants, the concentrations in papaya leaves reported a maximum value of 0.29 mg/kg, while for the leaves of the watermelon rotation fruit it was 0.15 mg/kg. In papaya fruit, thiamethoxam concentrations are within a range of 0.24 to 0.32 mg/kg. The concentrations and residuality of thiamethoxam mainly exceed the maximum tolerance and residuality limits of the EFSA and FAO.

Resumen: Existe evidencia del alto uso del insecticida neonicotinoide thiamethoxam en los cultivos tropicales por su efectividad en el control de plagas del suelo y la planta. El objetivo de este estudio fue conocer la residualidad y concentración del thiamethoxam en el agroecosistema de papaya en la principal zona productora de este fruto de la zona centro del Golfo de México. Este estudio se realizó durante un ciclo de cultivo de papaya con rotación de sandía; la toma de muestras se hizo según la técnica establecida por la NOM-AA-103-1988 para hojas y para fruta la NMX-FF-041-1996 mediante el método de cuarteo en papaya y sandia. Las muestras se analizaron con un equipo HPLC-UV, y los datos obtenidos se analizaron estadísticamente mediante pruebas paramétricas y no paramétricas de Kruskal- Wallis. Se encontró la presencia de thiamethoxam en la planta del cultivo de papaya y sandía. Las concentraciones en hojas de papaya reportaron como valores más altos 0.29 mg/kg, mientras que para las hojas del fruto de rotación de la sandía fue de 0.15 mg/kg. En el fruto de papaya, las concentraciones de thiamethoxam estuvieron dentro de un rango de 0.24 a 0.32 mg/kg. Las concentraciones y residualidad del thiamethoxam superan principalmente los límites máximos de tolerancia y residualidad de la EFSA y la FAO.

Resumen El plástico se ha vuelto muy popular en los últimos años gracias a su durabilidad y propiedades. A pesar de sus múltiples ventajas, la humanidad ha desarrollado cierta dependencia hacia este material, lo que ha propiciado un incremento en su uso y, a su vez, en la generación de desechos ante el escaso hábito de reúso. Uno de los polímeros plásticos más usados es el poliestireno (PS), ya que este se usa en una amplia gama de aplicaciones gracias a su bajo costo y fácil producción. Sin embargo, pasado el tiempo de vida útil de este plástico, es considerado como desecho. El PS al estar expuesto a condiciones atmosféricas como la radiación UV, se fragmenta dando como resultado la creación de microplásticos (MP), mismos que son pequeñas partículas que no sobrepasan los 5 mm, lo que representa una amenaza al medio ambiente pues, al degradarse, las propiedades decaen, se genera un cambio dimensional y, además, pueden ser fácilmente transportadas no solo al medio ambiente, sino también a los organismos. Este artículo de revisión se enfoca en evidenciar las principales rutas que siguen los MP al interaccionar con los seres humanos y los efectos potenciales de los PS-MP en el citoesqueleto, así como en resaltar la necesidad de más estudios al respecto.

Abstract Plastic has become very popular in recent years due to its durability and properties. Despite its many advantages, humanity has developed a certain dependence on this material, which represents an increase in its use and in turn, in waste. One of the most widely used plastic polymers is the polystyrene (PS), as is used in a wide range of applications due to its low cost and easy production, although after the useful life of the plastic, it is considered as waste. When plastic is exposure to atmospheric conditions such as UV radiation, it degrades and fragments giving rise to microplastics (MPs), which are defined as small particles that do not exceed 5 mm, representing a threat to the environment because when they degrade the properties decay, a dimensional change is generated and they can also be easily transported not only to the environment but also to organisms. This review article focuses on highlighting the main pathways that MPs follow when interacting with humans and the potential effects of PS-MPs on the cytoskeleton, as well as highlighting the need for more studies in this regard.

Abstract Scaptotrigona mexicana honey is characterized by its nutritional and antioxidant properties, but it has a high moisture content that affects its stability during storage. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physicochemical and antioxidant properties by UV-Visible spectroscopy, profile of phenolic compounds by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and fatty acids and volatile compounds by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, minerals by microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, from honey stored in different containers that, along with traditional methods, are commonly used to increase its stability. Most physicochemical and antioxidant properties were not significantly different from those of freshly harvested honey. The results suggest that the packaging with an exhaust check valve has a significant effect on the decrease in moisture content and water activity, but not on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties for at least 2 yr of storage. These results suggest that the type of container should be considered when storing honey as it significantly (P<0.05) affects its properties and quality.

Resumen La miel de Scaptotrigona mexicana se caracteriza por sus propiedades nutricionales y antioxidantes, pero tiene un alto contenido de humedad que afecta su estabilidad durante el almacenamiento. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las propiedades fisicoquímicas y antioxidantes mediante espectroscopía UV-Visible, perfil de compuestos fenólicos por cromatografía líquida de ultra alta resolución acoplada a espectrometría de masas y ácidos grasos y compuestos volátiles mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas, minerales por espectroscopía de emisión atómica de plasma de microondas, a partir de miel almacenada en diferentes recipientes que, junto con los métodos tradicionales, se utilizan comúnmente para aumentar su estabilidad. La mayoría de las propiedades fisicoquímicas y antioxidantes no fueron significativamente diferentes de las de la miel recién cosechada. Los resultados sugieren que el envase con válvula de retención de escape tiene un efecto significativo en la disminución del contenido de humedad y la actividad del agua, pero no en las propiedades fisicoquímicas y antioxidantes durante al menos 2 años de almacenamiento. Estos resultados sugieren que el tipo de recipiente debe considerarse al momento de almacenar la miel, ya que afecta significativamente (P<0.05) sus propiedades y calidad.

Abstract. - This article is about the use of nanoparticles for the development of sunscreen for skin care based on zinc oxide nanoparticles and silver oxide nanoparticles, with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing effects, using ZnO which is proposed to be synthesized through the hydrothermal method and Ag 2 O nanoparticles by constant agitation, through characterizations such as XRD, Uv-vis, Raman and pH measurement, we will seek to obtain data about our nanoparticles and the final product which is a sunscreen for skin care; The characterizations will provide data such as the crystalline phase, the degree of absorbance, and the chemical structure of the nanoparticles. According to the literature, zinc oxide nanoparticles decorated with silver oxide nanoparticles for topical use have properties that generate the effects above (antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing). Currently, several sunscreens use zinc oxide and some others silver oxide, which is why the present proposal seeks to apply both materials at a nanometric scale for the elaboration of a cream that, it is expected, in the future can be used for people with skin problems, such as dermatitis, including the possibility of using it for diabetics.

Resumen. - El presente artículo, se enfoca en el uso de nanopartículas para el desarrollo de un protector solar para el cuidado de la piel, que contiene nanopartículas de óxido de zinc y nanopartículas de óxido de plata, estas nanopartículas contienen efectos antioxidantes, antimicrobianos, antiinflamatorios y cicatrizantes, empleando ZnO el cual se propone a ser sintetizado a través del método hidrotermal y las nanopartículas de Ag 2 O por agitación constante, a través de las caracterizaciones como XRD, Uv-vis, Raman y medición de pH, se buscará obtener datos acerca de nuestras nanopartículas y el producto final que es un protector solar para el cuidado de la piel; las caracterizaciones aportaran datos como la fase cristalina, el grado de absorbancia, y la estructura química de las nanopartículas. De acuerdo a literatura consultada, el uso de nanopartículas de óxido de zinc decoradas con nanopartículas de óxido de plata para uso tópico, tiene propiedades para generar los efectos anteriormente mencionados (antioxidantes, antimicrobianos, antiinflamatorios y cicatrizantes). Actualmente diversos protectores solares emplean óxido de zinc y algunos otros oxido de plata, es por ello que la presente propuesta busca aplicar ambos materiales a escala nanométrica para la elaboración de una crema que, se tiene previsto, en un futuro se pueda utilizar para personas con problemas de piel, tales como la dermatitis, inclusive se plantea el poder usarlo para los diabéticos.

Resumen: Los asfaltenos son mezclas ultracomplejas que impactan negativamente la refinación, producción y transporte del petróleo. El interés en su estudio abarca desde su caracterización para definir su estructura molecular, hasta la comprensión de su comportamiento interfacial. Los asfaltenos presentan una gran diversidad de grupos funcionales y diferentes tipos de asociaciones como las de tipo no covalentes, enlaces de hidrógeno, complejo de coordinación e interacciones entre núcleos aromáticos paralelos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la composición presente en asfaltenos extraídos de crudos pesados y extrapesados mediante espectroscopía derivada. Se prepararon soluciones de asfaltenos en el rango de concentración de 20 mg/L a 100 mg/L y se analizaron con espectroscopía UV-Vis. La selección de los espectros de orden cero para el procesamiento se realizó con base en la nitidez presente. Los espectros fueron procesados con OriginPro 8.5, para la obtención de espectros derivados de primer y segundo orden. El procesamiento de los espectros de orden cero fue realizado con los filtros Savitsky-Golay y transformada rápida de Fourier (FFT). Los espectros derivados obtenidos presentaron señales nítidas con presencia de poco ruido, lo que hizo posible la identificación de grupos funcionales aromáticos, de 1 a 4 anillos en el rango de longitudes onda de 200 nm a 450 nm. El uso de filtros mejoró la calidad de las señales y permitió la identificación de componentes y estructuras presentes en asfaltenos. El filtro de Savitsky-Golay incrementó la resolución de los espectros derivados de asfaltenos extraídos de crudos pesados y el filtro FFT de asfaltenos de crudos extrapesados. Se observaron diferencias morfológicas entre los asfaltenos extraídos de crudos pesados y extrapesados mediante SEM, que pueden ser relacionadas con la composición y estructuras aromáticas presentes en asfaltenos.

Abstract: Asphaltenes are ultra-complex mixtures that negatively impact oil refining, production and transportation. The interest in its study ranges from its characterization to define its molecular structure, to the understanding of its interfacial behavior. Asphaltenes present a great diversity of functional groups and different types of associations such as non-covalent ones, hydrogen bonds, coordination complexes and interactions between parallel aromatic nuclei. The objective of this work was to analyze the composition present in asphaltenes extracted from heavy and extra-heavy crude oils using derivative spectroscopy. Asphaltene solutions were prepared in the concentration range of 20 mg/L to 100 mg/L and analyzed with UV-Vis spectroscopy. The selection of zero-order spectra for processing was made based on the sharpness present. The spectra were subsequently processed with OriginPro 8.5, to obtain first and second-order derived spectra. The processing of the zero order spectra was performed with the Savitsky-Golay and Fast Fourier transform (FFT) filters. The derived spectra obtained presented clear signals with the presence of little noise, which made possible the identification of aromatic functional groups, from 1 to 4 rings in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 450 nm. The use of filters improved the quality of the signals and allowed the identification of components and structures present in asphaltenes. The Savitsky-Golay filter increased the resolution of the spectra derived from asphaltenes extracted from heavy crude oils and the FFT filter increased the asphaltenes extracted from heavy crude oils. Morphological differences between asphaltenes extracted from heavy and extra-heavy crude oils were observed by SEM, which maybe related to the composition and aromatic structures present in asphaltenes.

Abstract Introduction. A specialized service for antifungal blood level determination is not available in Colombia. This service is essential for the proper follow-up of antifungal therapies. Objective. To standardize and validate a simple, sensitive, and specific protocol based on high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector for voriconazole blood level quantification. Materials and methods. We used an Agilent HPLC™ series-1200 equipment with a UV- diode array detector with an analytical column Eclipse XDB-C18 and pre-column Eclipse- XDB-C18 (Agilent). We used voriconazole as the primary control and posaconazole as an internal control. We performed the validation following the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations. Results. The best chromatographic conditions were: Column temperature of 25°C, UV variable wavelength detection at 256 nm for voriconazole and 261 nm for posaconazole (internal standard); 50 μl of injection volume, 0,8 ml/min volume flow, 10 minutes of run time, and mobile phase of acetonitrile:water (60:40). Finally, retention times were 3.13 for voriconazole and 5.16 minutes for posaconazole. Quantification range varied from 0.125 μg/ml to 16 μg/ml. Conclusion. The selectivity and chromatographic purity of the obtained signal, the detection limits, and the standardized quantification make this method an excellent tool for the therapeutic monitoring of patients treated with voriconazole.

Resumen Introducción. Hasta la fecha, Colombia no cuenta con un servicio especializado de medición de niveles séricos de antifúngicos, procedimiento esencial para el adecuado seguimiento del tratamiento de infecciones fúngicas invasoras. Objetivo. Estandarizar y validar un protocolo -simple, sensible y específico- basado en la aplicación de cromatografía líquida de alta eficiencia acoplada con un detector de arreglo de diodos para la cuantificación de los niveles séricos de voriconazol. Materiales y métodos. Se usó un equipo HPLC-AgilentTM, serie-1200, con un detector UVDAD, una columna analítica Eclipse-XDB-C18 y una pre-columna Eclipse-XDB-C18, ambas de la marca Agilent. Como control primario se utilizó voriconazol y como control interno, posaconazol. La validación se hizo cumpliendo todos los criterios de aceptación recomendados por la Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Resultados. Las mejores condiciones cromatográficas se obtuvieron con los siguientes parámetros: temperatura de la columna de 25 °C, detección UV-VWD de 261 nm, volumen de inyección de 50 μl, flujo de 0,8 ml/minuto y un tiempo de corrido de 10 minutos. La fase móvil usada fue acetonitrilo:agua (60:40) y los tiempos finales de retención fueron de 3,13 para voriconazol y de 5,16 minutos para posaconazol. El rango de cuantificación fue desde 0,125 μg/ml hasta 16 μg/ml. Conclusiones. La selectividad y la pureza de la señal cromatográfica, así como los límites de detección y cuantificación estandarizados hacen de esta metodología una excelente herramienta para el seguimiento terapéutico de pacientes tratados con voriconazol o en profilaxis con este fármaco.

Abstract Background: Based on the concept of “plant species complex,”, defined as a group sharing local names and morphological, aromatic, and curative properties, we analyzed the leaves of three species of the genus Oreopanax that are used as wrappers for tamales called “xocos” or “chocos” in Veracruz, Mexico, searching for common traits. Question: Do leaves of the genus Oreopanax form an ethnobotanical food complex sharing chemical and anatomical characteristics? Studied species / data description: Leaves from three species of the genus Oreopanax: O. capitatus, O. echinops, and O. flaccidus. Study site and dates: Leaves of O. capitatus and O. echinops were recollected on January 25 and 26, 2021, in the Clavijero Botanic Garden of the Instituto de Ecología, A. C. in Xalapa, Veracruz; leaves of O. flaccidus were recollected in Atapalchico, Tlacolulan, Veracruz. Methods: Chemical analyses consisted of oil extraction of the studied species' leaves, which were then injected into a gas chromatographer coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Anatomical analyses included: fixation, paraffin sectioning, and staining of leaf sections of the three species. Observations were performed with a compound microscope using a bright field or UV light. Results: For the first time, we are reporting major volatile compounds common in the three analyzed species (several aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, and terpenoids). The three species present resin canals in the mesophyll and the cortex of the midrib of the leaf. Conclusions: The studied Oreopanax species form an ethnobotanical food complex since they share similar uses, smells, and tastes.

Resumen Antecedentes: Basados en el concepto "complejo de especies vegetales", definido como un grupo que comparten nombres comunes, características morfológicas y propiedades aromáticas y curativas, analizamos las hojas de tres especies del género Oreopanax, utilizadas como envolturas de tamales llamados xocos o chocos en Veracruz, México, en busca de rasgos comunes. Pregunta: ¿Las hojas del género Oreopanax forman un complejo etnobotánico alimentario que comparte características químicas y anatómicas? Especies estudiadas / descripción de datos: Hojas de tres especies del género Oreopanax: O. capitatus, O. echinops y O. flaccidus. Lugar y fechas del estudio: Las hojas de O. capitatus y O. echinops se recolectaron los días 25 y 26 de enero de 2021, en el Jardín Botánico Clavijero del Instituto de Ecología, A. C. en Xalapa, Veracruz; las hojas de O. flaccidus se recolectaron en Atapalchico, Tlacolulan, Veracruz. Métodos: Los análisis químicos consistieron en la extracción de aceite de las hojas, el cual fue inyectado en un cromatógrafo de gases acoplado a un espectrómetro de masas (GC-MS). Los análisis anatómicos incluyeron: fijación, seccionamiento en parafina y tinción de secciones foliares. Las observaciones se realizaron con un microscopio compuesto utilizando iluminación de campo claro o de luz ultravioleta. Resultados: Por primera vez, informamos sobre los principales compuestos volátiles comunes en las tres especies analizadas (varios alcoholes alifáticos y aromáticos; y terpenoides). Las especies presentan canales resiníferos en el mesófilo y en el córtex de la vena media de la hoja . Conclusiones: Las especies de Oreopanax estudiadas forman un complejo etnobotánico alimenticio, pues comparten usos, olores y sabores similares.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The balance of materials in obtaining the G-0 intermediate product guarantees that the product is consistently produced and controlled. Objective: Carry out the material balances in the mechanical and thermal operations in obtaining the intermediate product G-0. Materials and Methods: The analysis of the input and output materials mass was conducted for the crude G-0 centrifugation systems, filtration of the suspension to be purified from crude G-0, and centrifugation and drying of the PI G-0. The composition was determined using available techniques and previous research work. For the calculation of the average results of the streams with the Microsoft Office Excel® program 25 batches produced in the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 were taken into account. Results and Discussion: The material balances per batch in the obtaining of PI G-0 in the systems Centrifugation G-0 Crude, Centrifugation of PI G-0, Filtration and Drying allowed to know the real yield of the desired product for 14 moles of furfural and the losses in the residual streams and due to manufacturing. In the drying operation, the removal of water and wet and dry base solvent was quantified. Conclusions: The material balances in the mechanical and thermal operations of the process of obtaining the intermediate product G-0 allow assuring the consistency of the process. The tests carried out on the specifications: organoleptic characteristics, identification by UV VIS ultraphotometry, melting interval and purity of the product declare the conformity for its use in the production of Furvina.

RESUMEN Introducción: El balance de materiales en la obtención del producto intermedio G-0 garantiza que el producto sea consistentemente producido y controlado. Objetivo: Realizar los balances de materiales en las operaciones mecánicas y térmicas en la obtención del producto intermedio G-0. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó el análisis de la masa de materiales de entrada y salida para los sistemas centrifugación de G-0 crudo, filtración de la suspensión a purificar de G-0 crudo, centrifugación y secado del PI G-0 y se determinó la composición mediante las técnicas disponibles y trabajos de investigación realizados con anterioridad. Para el cálculo de los resultados promedios de las corrientes con el programa Microsoft Office Excel® se tuvieron en cuenta 25 lotes producidos en los años 2016, 2017, 2018 y 2019. Resultados y Discusión: Los balances de materiales por lote en la obtención del PI G-0 en los sistemas Centrifugación G-0 Crudo, Centrifugación del PI G-0, Filtración y Secado, permitieron conocer el rendimiento real del producto deseado para 14 mole de furfural y las pérdidas en las corrientes residuales y por manufactura. En la operación de secado se cuantificó la eliminación de agua y solvente base húmeda y seca. Conclusiones: Los balances de materiales en las operaciones mecánicas y térmicas del proceso de obtención del producto intermedio G-0 permiten asegurar la consistencia del proceso. Los ensayos realizados a las especificaciones: características organolépticas, identificación por ultrafotometría UV VIS, intervalo de fusión y pureza del producto declaran la conformidad para su uso en la producción de la Furvina.