Abstract: In order to evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological composition of functional beverages obtained from chayote pulp (Sechium edule) with L-carnitine. A randomized design with four replicates per treatment was used to evaluate chemical (dry matter, crude protein, ethereal extract, fiber, and ash), physical (pH, °Brix, acidity), and microbiological (mesophilic aerobes and molds and yeasts) parameters. The treatments studied were: V1, Chayote 100% plus 500 mg of L-carnitine; V2, Chayote 75% + 500 mg of L-carnitine and 25% of distilled water; V3, Chayote 75% + 250 mg of L-carnitine and 25% of distilled water; V4, Chayote 50% + 500 mg of L-carnitine and 50% of distilled water; V5, Chayote 50% + 250 mg of L-carnitine and 50% of distilled water. The pH values at V3 gradually decreased until day 21. Crude protein and ash differed (p<0.05) in V1 and V2 compared to the other treatments. While dry matter, ethereal, and nitrogen-free extract did not differ between the variants, mesophilic aerobes, molds, and yeasts were within the ranges (<3) of acceptance according to NTE INEN 1529-6 standards. Treatment V3 showed the highest pH reduction (5.09) compared to other variants after 21 days of storage. It is concluded that including different amounts of chayote pulp with L-carnitine is a suitable alternative to obtain functional beverages for human consumption.

Resumen: Con el objetivo de evaluar la composición fisicoquímica y microbiológica de las bebidas funcionales obtenidas a partir pulpa de chayote (Sechium edule) con L-Carnitina, se empleó un diseño completamente aleatorizado con cuatro repeticiones por tratamiento se evaluaron parámetros químicos (materia seca, proteína cruda, extracto eterio, fibra y ceniza), físicos (pH, °Brix, acidez) y microbiológicos (aerobios mesófilos y mohos y levaduras). Los tratamientos estudiados fueron: V1, Chayote 100 % más 500 mg de L-carnitina; V2, Chayote 75% + 500 mg L-Carnitina y 25% agua destilada; V3, chayote 75% +250 mg L-Carnitina y 25% agua destilada; V4, Chayote 50% + 500 mg L-Carnitina y 50% agua destilada; V5, Chayote 50% + 250 mg L-Carnitina y 50% agua destilada. Los valores de pH en el V3 se redujeron gradualmente hasta el día 21. La proteína cruda y ceniza difirieron (p<0.05) en los V1 y V2 frente a los demás. Mientras que la materia seca, extracto etéreo y extracto libre de nitrógeno, no presentaron diferencia entre variantes. Los aerobios mesófilos, mohos y levaduras estuvieron dentro los rangos (<3) de aceptación según las normas NTE INEN 1529-6. El tratamiento V3 fue el que presentó mayor reducción de pH (5,09) con frente a otras variantes a los 21dias de conservado. Se concluye, que la inclusión de diferentes cantidades de pulpa de chayote con L-Carnitina es una alternativa apropiada para obtener bebidas funcionales aptos para consumo humano.

Resumo As plantas têm profundos benefícios terapêuticos, tratamentos mais econômicos, menos efeitos colaterais e um custo relativamente barato, tornando-as uma fonte de medicamentos para fins protetores, preventivos, curativos ou propícios e criando novos fitomedicamentos. Medicamentos derivados de plantas são relativamente seguros em comparação com medicamentos sintéticos. Muitas plantas provaram ajudar com sucesso no tratamento de diabetes, incluindo Filago hurdwarica (Wall. ex DC.) Wagenitz. As investigações atuais foram, portanto, projetadas para avaliar as atividades fitoquímicas, antioxidantes, antidiabéticas e anti-hiperlipidêmicas de F. hurdwarica. As investigações fitoquímicas e atividades antioxidantes de diferentes extratos foram realizadas usando testes químicos padrão, DPPH e ensaios de eliminação de H2O2. O extrato da planta F. hurdwarica em solução hidrometanólica foi preparado pelo método Soxhletation e armazenado em geladeira a 4 °C por dois dias antes do uso. Camundongos Swiss Albino foram tornados diabéticos por uma única dose de aloxana (150 mg/kg). Extrato de planta hidrometanólica e frações de F. hurdwarica foram rastreados quanto à atividade antidiabética e administrados aos camundongos diabéticos induzidos por aloxana em uma concentração de 150-250 mg/kg de peso corporal em diferentes grupos de 6 camundongos diabéticos cada, por via oral, uma vez ao dia por 15 dias. A glibenclamida também é administrada a outro grupo como medicamento padrão para apoiar o resultado na dose de 10 mg/kg de peso corporal por via oral uma vez ao dia por 15 dias. Os níveis de glicose no sangue e os pesos corporais dos camundongos foram medidos em 0, 4, 7, 11 e 15 dias. O estudo descobriu que o extrato era seguro até o nível de dose de 2.000 mg/kg e o efeito dose-resposta do extrato de clorofórmio (150-250 mg/kg) de F. hurdwarica mostrou efeitos anti-hiperglicêmicos expressivos e também melhorou outros parâmetros bioquímicos alterados associados com diabete. Os espectros de FTIR e DRX demonstraram a ocorrência de fenóis, álcoois, alcenos, haletos de alquila, cetonas e compostos aromáticos e confirmaram a natureza amorfa do extrato. A análise espectral por GC-MS mostrou a presença tentativa de 31 constituintes fitoquímicos no extrato clorofórmio de F. hurdwarica com diferentes tempos de retenção. Para concluir, o extrato de clorofórmio (250 mg/kg) de F. hurdwarica revelou considerável potencial antioxidante, anti-hiperglicêmico e anti-hiperlipidêmico e é seguro para o tratamento de diabetes e complicações relacionadas.

Abstract Plants have profound therapeutic benefits, more economical treatments, fewer side effects, and a relatively cheap cost, making them a source of drugs for protective, preventative, curative, or conducive purposes and creating novel phytomedicines. Plant derived medicines are relatively safe compared to synthetic medicines. Many plants have proved to successfully aid in the treatment of diabetes including Filago hurdwarica (Wall. ex DC.) Wagenitz. The current investigations were therefore designed to assess the phytochemical, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic activities of F. hurdwarica. The phytochemical investigations and antioxidant activities of different extracts were carried out using standard chemical tests, DPPH, and H2O2 scavenging assays. F. hurdwarica plant extract in Hydromethanolic solution were prepared by Soxhletation method and stored in refrigerator at 4°C for two days before use. Swiss Albino mice were made diabetic by a single dose of alloxan (150 mg/kg). Hydromethanolic plant extract and fractions of F. hurdwarica were screened for antidiabetic activity and given to the alloxan-induced diabetic mice at a concentration of 150-250 mg/kg of body weight in different groups of 6 diabetic mice each orally once a day for 15 days. Glibenclamide is also given to another group to as a standard drug to support the result at a dose of 10 mg/kg of body weight orally once a day for 15 days. Blood glucose levels and body weights of mice were measured on 0, 4, 7, 11 and 15th days. The study found that the extract was safe up to the dose level of 2000 mg/kg and the dose response effect of chloroform extract (150-250 mg/kg) of F. hurdwarica showed expressive antihyperglycemic effects and also improved other altered biochemical parameters associated with diabetes. The FTIR and XRD spectra demonstrated the occurrence of phenols, alcohols, alkenes, alkyl halides, ketones, and aromatic compounds and confirmed the amorphous nature of the extract. GC-MS spectral analysis showed the tentative presence of 31 phytochemical constituents in the chloroform extract of F. hurdwarica with different retention time. To conclude, the chloroform extract (250 mg/kg) of F. hurdwarica revealed considerable antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and antihyperlipidemic potential and is safe for treating diabetes and related complications.

Abstract Nanosensors work on the “Nano” scale. “Nano” is a unit of measurement around 10− 9 m. A nanosensor is a device capable of carrying data and information about the behavior and characteristics of particles at the nanoscale level to the macroscopic level. Nanosensors can be used to detect chemical or mechanical information such as the presence of chemical species and nanoparticles or monitor physical parameters such as temperature on the nanoscale. Nanosensors are emerging as promising tools for applications in agriculture. They offer an enormous upgrade in selectivity, speed, and sensitivity compared to traditional chemical and biological methods. Nanosensors can be used for the determination of microbe and contaminants. With the advancement of science in the world and the advent of electronic equipment and the great changes that have taken place in recent decades, the need to build more accurate, smaller and more capable sensors was felt. Today, high-sensitivity sensors are used that are sensitive to small amounts of gas, heat, or radiation. Increasing the sensitivity, efficiency and accuracy of these sensors requires the discovery of new materials and tools. Nano sensors are nanometer-sized sensors that, due to their small size and nanometer size, have such high accuracy and responsiveness that they react even to the presence of several atoms of a gas. Nano sensors are inherently smaller and more sensitive than other sensors.

Resumo Os nanossensores funcionam na escala “Nano”. “Nano” é uma unidade de medida em torno de 10-9 m. Um nanosensor é um dispositivo capaz de transportar dados e informações sobre o comportamento e as características das partículas no nível da nanoescala para o nível macroscópico. Os nanossensores podem ser usados para detectar informações químicas ou mecânicas, como a presença de espécies químicas e nanopartículas, ou monitorar parâmetros físicos, como temperatura em nanoescala. Os nanossensores estão surgindo como ferramentas promissoras para aplicações na agricultura. Eles oferecem uma abrangente atualização em seletividade, velocidade e sensibilidade em comparação com os métodos químicos e biológicos tradicionais. Os nanossensores podem ser usados para a determinação de micróbios e contaminantes. Com o avanço da ciência no mundo e o advento dos equipamentos eletrônicos e as grandes mudanças ocorridas nas últimas décadas, sentiu-se a necessidade de construir sensores mais precisos, menores e mais capazes. Hoje, são usados sensores de alta sensibilidade que são sensíveis a pequenas quantidades de gás, calor ou radiação. Aumentar a sensibilidade, eficiência e precisão desses sensores requer a descoberta de novos materiais e ferramentas. Os nanossensores são sensores de tamanho nanométrico que, devido ao seu tamanho pequeno e tamanho nanométrico, possuem uma precisão e capacidade de resposta tão altas que reagem até mesmo na presença de vários átomos de um gás. Os nanossensores são inerentemente menores e mais sensíveis do que outros sensores.

Resumo Algumas cultivares de figueira (Ficus carica L.), nomeadamente do grupo São Pedro, produzem uma primeira colheita de figos no final da primavera que se designa por figos lampos. Estes figos são partenocárpicos e desenvolvem-se nos ramos do ano anterior, estando em produção entre maio/junho até julho. Sendo a primeira colheita numa época do ano em que há pouca oferta de figos no mercado, os figos lampos podem alcançar bons preços, sendo por isso uma opção lucrativa. Todavia, alcançar produções competitivas depende da utilização de cultivares produtivas, produtoras de figos de qualidade e adaptadas às nossas condições de cultura. Face ao problema da escolha de cultivares para novas plantações de forma a satisfazer os requerimentos agronómicos e comerciais, foram estudadas sete cultivares produtoras de figos lampos quanto às características qualitativas de maior interesse. Avaliaram-se os parâmetros biométricos como o peso, calibre, altura e comprimento do pedúnculo; os parâmetros físico-químicos como a dureza, o teor de sólidos solúveis totais (TSS) e os parâmetros colorimétricos L*, a*, b*, °hue. Entre as características de qualidade avaliadas do fruto, o tamanho, o peso, a dureza e a coloração dos figos mostraram um proeminente papel na escolha de cultivares a considerar plantar. No entanto, o comprimento do pedúnculo e o TSS não são fatores tão decisivos, uma vez que não manifestaram diferenças significativas entre as cultivares.

Abstract Some cultivars of fig tree (Ficus carica L.), namely from the San Pedro group, produced a first harvest of figs at the end of spring, known as breba figs. These figs are parthenocarpic and develop on the previous year's branches, producing from May/June to July. As a first harvest at a time of year when the supply of figs is low, breba figs can achieve good prices, making them a profitable option. However, achieving competitive productions depends on using productive cultivars, producing quality figs and adapted to our growing conditions. Faced with the problem of selecting cultivars for new plantations in order to test the agronomic and commercial requirements, seven cultivars producing breba figs were studied for the qualitative traits of greatest interest. Biometric parameters such as weight, fruit diameter, height and peduncle length were evaluated; physico-chemical parameters such as firmness, total soluble solids content (TSS) and colorimetric parameters L*, a*, b*, °hue. Among the quality characteristics evaluated in the fruits, the size, weight, firmness, and the color of the figs played a prominent role in choosing the cultivars to consider for planting. However, the length of the peduncle and the TSS are not so decisive factors, since they did not show differences between the cultivars.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a fermentação semi-carbônica como tratamento pós-colheita de café submetido a diferentes tipos de processamento sobre a qualidade do café e sobre a incidência de fungos. O experimento foi conduzido no IFSULDEMINAS Campus Inconfidentes, Brasil, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Foi realizado com 9 tratamentos considerando os frutos em diferentes estádios fenológicos fermentados e não fermentados. Foram analisados os parâmetros físicos, químicos, microbiológicos e a qualidade sensorial do café. A qualidade sensorial dos cafés cereja verde+maduro e verde claro melhorou significativamente, apresentando diminuição na incidência dos fungos Cladosporium. O café fermentado apresentou tonalidades mais avermelhadas. O processo de fermentação melhora a qualidade dos grãos de café verde claro e verde + maduro. O processo de fermentação semi-carbônica afeta resultando em cerejas de café com tons avermelhados. A fermentação semi-carbônica reduz a incidência de fungos Cladosporium, sem alterar a qualidade do café.

Abstract The objective of this this work was to evaluate semi-carbonic fermentation as a post-harvest treatment of coffee subjected to different processing types on the coffee qualities and on the incidence of fungi. The experiment was conducted in IFSULDEMINAS Campus Inconfidentes, Brazil, in a randomized block design. It was carried out in 9 treatments considering the fruits in different fermented and non-fermented phenological stages. The coffee physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters and sensorial quality were analyzed. The sensorial quality of green + ripe, and light green coffee cherries was significantly improved, presenting decreases in incidence of Cladosporium fungi. The fermented coffee presented more reddish hues. The fermentation process improves the quality of light green and green + ripe coffee cherries. Semi-carbonic fermentation process affects resulting in coffee cherries with reddish hues. Semi-carbonic fermentation reduces the incidence of Cladosporium fungi, without altering the coffee quality.

Resumen: La adición de las sustancias químicas en el tratamiento del agua potable comúnmente es un procedimiento manual realizado por personal altamente capacitado y experimentado. Esta resulta una tarea crítica debido a que requiere cierto nivel de experiencia para una correcta dosificación. Como posible solución, este estudio se basa en el análisis de datos recolectados de una fuente de agua cruda ubicada en Ecuador. Utilizando la información de los parámetros fisicoquímicos del agua cruda, como el pH, turbidez y color, se identifican las dosis de Policloruro de Aluminio (PAC), y las variables de entrada y salida del proceso. En consecuencia, se propone la implementación de un sistema de control inteligente basado en Redes Neuronales Artificiales (RNA) con la finalidad de reducir la dependencia del personal experimentado. Para ello, se parte con la recolección y análisis de datos y así establecer las variables involucradas en el proceso. El modelo neuronal propuesto dispone de tres capas ocultas y utiliza algoritmos de gradiente adaptativo. El análisis de los resultados se realizó mediante el error porcentual absoluto medio (MAPE) y el error cuadrático medio (RMSE). El modelo predictivo de PAC en etapa de entrenamiento indica un valor MAPE de 0,0425 para los valores no ajustados y de 0,0262 para los valores numéricos ajustados. Sin embargo, en la etapa de prueba el modelo neuronal alcanza un MAPE de 0,057 para los valores de PAC no ajustados y de 0,041 para los ajustados. Esta alternativa brinda una solución eficiente a la hora de resolver problemas de dosificación en las plantas de tratamiento de agua potable (PTAP), teniendo resultados confiables según las métricas RMSE y MAPE.

Abstract: The addition of chemicals in drinking water treatment is usually a manual procedure performed by highly trained and experienced persons. To solve this problem, this study is based on the analysis of data collected from a raw water source located in Ecuador. Then, using the information on the physical-chemical parameters of the raw water such as pH, turbidity and color, the definition of the doses of Poly Aluminum Chloride (PAC), and the input and output variables of the dosage process are identified. Consequently, the implementation of an intelligent control system based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) is proposed in order to reduce the dependence on experienced people. These experiments start with data collection and analysis in order to establish the variables involved in the process. The proposed neural model has three hidden layers, and it uses adaptive gradient algorithms. An analysis of the results was performed using Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). The PAC predictive model in the training phase gives a MAPE value of 0.0425 for the not adjusted values and 0.0262 for the adjusted numerical values. However, in the test phase the neural model achieves a MAPE of 0.057 for the not adjusted PAC values and 0.041 for the adjusted values. This alternative provides an efficient solution to solve dosing problems in drinking water treatment plants (DWTP), with reliable results according to RMSE and MAPE metrics.

Summary: The Ayuquila-Armería river basin is classified as a priority hydrographic basin in Mexico for its high diversity and for the ecosystem pressure it is subjected to. The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb and Zn) in water and aquatic macroinvertebrates, in addition to physical and chemical parameters (pH, EC and flow) in the tributary basins and the main channel. The present investigation was carried out with samplings in the rainy season in 2015, and in the dry season in 2016, at 18 sites in the basin. Determinations of heavy metals, physical and chemical parameters, collection of aquatic macroinvertebrates and estimation of the flow of the tributaries were carried out at each sampling site. In surface water, only Hg and Pb exceeded the permissible limits for natural waters (0.02 and 0.0015 mg L-1 respectively) in 60% of the sites; in terms of concentrations in macroinvertebrates, the six metals exceeded the permissible limits in the 65% of the sites with concentrations of 0.33 to 7.07 mg kg-1, of these the Hg (7.07 mg kg-1) and the metalloid As (5.19 mg kg-1) were the ones that presented the highest concentrations.

Resumen: La cuenca del río Ayuquila-Armería se clasifica como cuenca hidrográfica prioritaria de México por su alta diversidad y también por la presión ecosistémica a la que es sometida. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar las concentraciones de metales pesados (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb y Zn) en agua y macroinvertebrados acuáticos, además de parámetros físicos y químicos (pH, C.E y caudal) en las subcuencas tributarias y el cauce principal. La presente investigación se llevó a cabo con muestreos en la temporada lluviosa en 2015, y en la temporada seca en 2016, en 18 sitios de la cuenca. En cada sitio de muestreo se realizaron determinaciones de metales pesados, parámetros físicos y químicos, colecta de macroinvertebrados acuáticos y estimación del caudal de los afluentes. En el agua superficial solo el Hg y el Pb superaron los límites permisibles para aguas naturales (0.02 y 0.0015 mg L-1 respectivamente) en el 60% de los sitios, en cuanto a las concentraciones en macroinvertebrados los seis metales superaron los límites permisibles en el 65% de los sitios con concentraciones de 0.33 a 7.07 mg kg-1, de estos el Hg (7.07 mg kg-1) y el metaloide As (5.19 mg kg-1) fueron los que presentaron las mayores concentraciones.

ABSTRACT The province of Santa Elena is a region with significant agricultural potential for various crops. Marked water deficit and the presence of extensive degraded soil areas pose a challenge in sustaining food security. Soilless crops are known for substantial water savings and emerge as a viable alternative in these regions. This research aimed to assess the impact of nutrient solution on the chemical parameters of the recirculating solution, water use efficiency, and yield of a protected tomato crop (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) under an inert substrate system (50% rice husk and 50% sand). Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replicates, testing three recirculating nutrient solutions: Hoagland/Arnon, Sonneveld/Voogt, and Steiner. Results revealed that the pH and electrical conductivity in all nutrient solutions exceeded the appropriate thresholds for cultivation, necessitating the discontinuation of recirculation. Gross and commercial yields, as well as water efficiency, showed no significant differences. Concerning the fruit, the Sonneveld solution exhibited superior fresh weight, while the Steiner solution excelled in dry weight percentage and total soluble solids..

RESUMEN La provincia de Santa Elena es una zona de gran potencial productivo para diversos cultivos agrícolas. El marcado déficit hídrico y la existencia de grandes superficies de suelos degradados se consideran un desafío en la producción para sostener la seguridad alimentaria. Los cultivos sin suelo se caracterizan por un ahorro considerable de agua y figuran como alternativa en estas zonas. Se realizó una investigación con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de la solución nutritiva sobre los parámetros químicos de la solución recirculante, la eficiencia del uso del agua y el rendimiento de un cultivo protegido de tomate (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) bajo un sistema de sustrato inerte (50% cascarilla de arroz y 50% de arena). Los tratamientos fueron establecidos bajo un diseño completamente al azar con tres repeticiones, se probaron tres soluciones nutritivas con recirculación: Hoagland/Arnon, Sonneveld/Voogt y Steiner. Los resultados mostraron que el pH y conductividad eléctrica en todas las soluciones nutritivas superaron los umbrales adecuados para el cultivo, y este último obligó a eliminar la recirculación. El rendimiento bruto, comercial y eficiencia del agua no mostraron diferencias significativas. En el fruto, la solución Sonneveld fue superior en cuanto al peso fresco y Steiner en el porcentaje de materia seca y sólidos solubles totales.

Resumen Los residuos maderables que brinda el bosque secundario por su alto contenido en material lignocelulósico son de gran interés para la industria de la construcción y otras con fines energéticos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar los residuos forestales de seis especies para la obtención del carbono como energía limpia, esto representa gran interés para la industria energética. A través de la metodología del estudio de inventarios y muestreo de los residuos maderables de los aserraderos de cuatro cantones de la provincia de Pastaza, mediante técnicas instrumentales de análisis físicos, químicos y térmicos, los parámetros estudiados fueron el potencial de biomasa y residuo, densidad, humedad, cenizas, volátiles, carbono fijo y poder calorífico superior (análisis inmediato), carbono, hidrogeno, oxigeno, nitrógeno y azufre (CHONS), lo que permitió obtener las propiedades termoquímicas, alcanzando los principales resultados del potencial energético, de estas tres especies que se pueden aprovechar para energía limpia, debido a la cantidad de cenizas encontradas en los análisis por debajo del 1 % y de volátiles (60-80 %) de estos residuos, lo que evidencia claramente que evita la formación de incrustaciones en los equipos y daños, en relación a su contenido en carbono fijo en promedio de 14.78 % y su poder calorífico superior 19.72 Mj/kg, valorando la factibilidad industrial para su aprovechamiento energético que generará 515.62 GW de energía limpia en térmicos eléctricos anualmente para satisfacer las necesidades de las áreas vulnerables de la región amazónica.

Abstract Timber residues due to its use for the construction industry and others provided by the secondary forest and its high content of lignocellulosic material for energy purposes, our objective was to evaluate the forest residues of six species to obtain carbon as clean energy, which represents great interest for the energy industry. Through the methodology of the study of inventories and sampling of wood residues from sawmills that was in the four cantons of the province of Pastaza, through instrumental techniques of physical, chemical and thermal analysis, the parameters studied were the biomass potential and residue, density, humidity, ashes, volatiles, fixed carbon and higher calorific value (immediate analysis), carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur (CHONS), which allowed obtaining the thermochemical properties, reaching the main results of energy potential, of these three species that can be used for clean energy, due to the amount of ash found in the analyzes below 1 % and volatiles (60-80 %) of these residues, which clearly shows that it prevents the formation of scale in equipment and damage, in relation to its fixed carbon content on average of 14.78 % and its superior calorific value 19.72 Mj/kg, assessing the fact industrial reliability for its energy use that will generate 515.62 GW of clean energy in electrical thermal power annually to meet the needs of vulnerable areas of the Amazon region.

Resumen Persea schiedeana Nees es un árbol frutal nativo de Mesoamérica, parcialmente endémico de México, se ubica a lo largo de la llanura del golfo de México. El objetivo fue evaluar los descriptores edafoclimáticos, morfológicos, químicos y comparar las diferencias entre las regiones de estudio que permita su revalorización. Las regiones de estudio fueron: Soconusco en Tuxtla chico, Chiapas, la Selva en Palenque, Chiapas; la Chontalpa en Comalcalco, Tabasco y la Sierra Nororiental en Teziutlán, Puebla. En julio de 2019, se seleccionaron al azar 5 árboles para la cosecha de 44 frutos de cada región, lo que dio un total de 1 76 frutos y 1 584 determinaciones. Se realizó un análisis de varianza para encontrar las diferencias entre regiones y una prueba de Tukey para la comparación de medias de los parámetros morfológicos y fisicoquímicos evaluados, mediante el software estadístico Minitab®. Los frutos de la región de la Selva en Palenque, Chiapas, presentaron mayor valor en peso (417.50±69.70 g), longitud (18.48±1.56 cm), pulpa (282.09±54.72%) y grasa (50.29±2.03%). La región del Soconusco, Chiapas alcanzó los porcentajes más altos de proteína en pulpa (2.79±0.54%), semilla (1.76±0.14%) y cáscara (2.64±0.19%). Los resultados obtenidos sugieren la existencia de variación entre los materiales de Persea schiedeana Nees en las regiones estudiadas, permitiendo identificar aquellas con potencial agroindustrial, constituyendo una alternativa para diversificar la producción de Persea spp., en México.

Abstract Persea schiedeana Nees is a fruit tree native to Mesoamerica, partially endemic to Mexico, found along the plain of the Gulf of Mexico. The objective was to evaluate the edaphoclimatic, morphological and chemical descriptors and compare the differences between the study regions that allow their revaluation. The study regions were: Soconusco in Tuxtla Chico, Chiapas, Selva in Palenque, Chiapas; Chontalpa in Comalcalco, Tabasco and Sierra Nororiental in Teziutlán, Puebla. In July 2019, 5 trees were randomly selected from each region for the harvest of 44 fruits, giving a total of 176 fruits and 1 584 determinations. An analysis of variance was performed to find the differences between regions and a Tukey test for the comparison of means of the morphological and physicochemical parameters evaluated, using the statistical software Minitab®. The fruits from the Selva region in Palenque, Chiapas, presented greater value in weight (417.50±69.70 g), length (18.48±1.56 cm), pulp (282.09±54.72%) and fat (50.29±2.03%). The Soconusco region, Chiapas reached the highest percentages of protein in pulp (2.79±0.54%), seed (1.76±0.14%) and peel (2.64±0.19%). The results obtained suggest the existence of variation between the materials of Persea schiedeana Nees in the regions studied, allowing the identification of those with agroindustrial potential, constituting an alternative to diversify the production of Persea spp., in Mexico.

Abstract: Laboratory animals reared in different Animal Facilities show variations in their physiological characteristics due to diet, management, health status, age, sampling routes, and other factors. For this reason, the importance of determining the biochemical profile of conventional mice and rats from the Animal Facility of the Facultad de Ciencias Químicas of the Universidad Nacional de Asunción (FCQ-UNA). In the experimental study, were used 60 Swiss mice and 60 Wistar rats, males and females, 11 weeks old. Were determined different biochemical parameters such as renal, liver, lipid, and protein profiles, electrolytes, glycemia and glycosylated hemoglobin. The animals were not exposed to chemical or pharmacological treatments that could change their natural physiological state. The comparative analysis of the results with those presented in the literature clearly demonstrated the existence of intra-species variations. The most noticeable differences were observed in the liver profile; since the serum transaminase levels of the animals presented values below that established in the consulted bibliography. In addition, lower glycemia values were clearly evidenced in the animals of the Animal Facility of FCQ-UNA compared to others Animal Facilities of the region. This study standardized the biochemical profile of conventional rats and mice from the Animal Facility of the Facultad de Ciencias Químicas of UNA, offering a valuable tool to researchers for the analysis of their experimental results.

Resumen: Animales de laboratorio criados en diferentes Bioterios muestran variaciones en sus características fisiológicas debido a la dieta, manejo, estado de salud, edad, vías de toma de muestras y otros factores. Por ello la importancia de determinar el perfil bioquímico de ratones y ratas convencionales del Bioterio de la Facultad de Ciencias Químicas de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción (FCQ-UNA). En el estudio experimental se utilizaron 60 ratones Swiss y 60 ratas Wistar, machos y hembras, de 11 semanas de edad. Se determinaron distintos parámetros bioquímicos como los perfiles renal, hepático, lipídico y proteico, electrolitos, glicemia y hemoglobina glicosilada. Los animales no fueron expuestos a tratamientos químicos o farmacológicos que pudieran cambiar su estado fisiológico natural. El análisis comparativo de los resultados con los presentados en la literatura, demostraron claramente la existencia de variaciones intra-especie. Las diferencias más notorias se observaron en el perfil hepático; ya que, los niveles de transaminasas séricas de los animales presentaron valores por debajo de la establecida en la bibliografía consultada. Además, claramente se evidenció valores inferiores de glicemia en los animales del Bioterio de la FCQ-UNA comparados con Bioterios de la región. Este estudio estandarizó el perfil bioquímico de ratas y ratones convencionales del Bioterio de la Facultad de Ciencias Químicas de la UNA, ofreciendo una herramienta valiosa a los investigadores para el análisis de sus resultados experimentales.

Resumen El trabajo tiene por objetivo analizar y evaluar la calidad del agua subterránea de la ciudad de Sucre, Bolivia, específicamente del área de cobertura del caudal Cajamarca. La metodología consistió inicialmente en la caracterización del área de estudio: localización, topografía, geología, marco hidrológico, hidrogeológico y precipitación pluvial. Posteriormente, se seleccionaron y tomaron muestras de siete pozos (P1-P7). Se realizaron los análisis microbiológicos, organolépticos, químicos e hidroquímicos, además de la evaluación para su uso en el área agrícola. Fueron considerados los requisitos mínimos del control de la calidad del agua para consumo humano de la Norma Boliviana 512, Ley Nº 1333 del Medio Ambiente y las guías para la calidad de agua potable de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Los resultados demuestran que todos los pozos cumplen con los requerimientos establecidos en los parámetros químicos. Sin embargo, los siete pozos se ven comprometidos en la caracterización microbiológica y organoléptica. Respecto al análisis hidroquímico, se observa que la mayoría de las muestras pertenecen al grupo Na^+-HCO_3^- con un contenido iónico relativamente elevado. Por otra parte, sólo los P2 y P7 son aptos para uso agrícola; mientras que, los P3 y P4 pueden ser empleadas bajo ciertas condiciones. Si bien la explotación de aguas subterráneas puede ser una alternativa a la demanda de agua, se debe realizar un análisis detallado de sus características y, si fuera necesario, un tratamiento para su uso.

Abstract The objective of this research work is to analyze and evaluate the quality of groundwater in the city of Sucre, Bolivia, specifically in the area covered by the Cajamarca flow. The methodology consisted initially in the characterization of the study area: location, topography, geology, hydrological and hydrogeological framework and rainfall. Subsequently, samples were selected and taken from seven wells (P1-P7). Microbiological, organoleptic, chemical and hydrochemical analyses were performed, as well as evaluation for agricultural use. The minimum requirements for water quality control for human consumption of Bolivian Standard 512, Law No. 1333 of the Environment and the guidelines for drinking water quality of the World Health Organization were considered. The results show that all the wells meet the requirements established in the chemical parameters. However, the seven wells are compromised in the microbiological and organoleptic characterization. Regarding the hydrochemical analysis, it is observed that most of the samples belong to the Na+-HCO3_- group with a relatively high ionic content. On the other hand, only P2 and P7 are suitable for agricultural use, while P3 and P4 can be used under certain conditions. Although groundwater exploitation can be an alternative to water demand, a detailed analysis of its characteristics and, if necessary, a treatment for its use should be carried out.

Resumen La correlación entre los atributos físicos y químicos de las frutas puede servir como indi cador del momento ideal de cosecha y funcionar como criterio de selección para mejorar el manejo y la productividad de los cultivos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar las correlaciones entre las propiedades físicas y químicas de los frutos de guayaba Cortibel cultivados en el Cerrado brasileño. Los parámetros evaluados incluyeron color de cáscara y pulpa, peso, diámetro, longitud, sólidos solubles totales, acidez titulable y la relación de estas características. Los datos se analizaron mediante la correlación lineal de Pearson con un nivel de significancia de P <0,05. Varias propiedades físicas y químicas de los frutos exhi bieron correlaciones significativas. Los mayores coeficientes de correlación se observaron entre el peso y el diámetro del fruto, así como entre el ángulo de tonalidad de la cáscara y su luminosidad. Las propiedades de los frutos de guayaba Cortibel cultivados en el Cerrado brasileño exhiben correlaciones significativas. Estos hallazgos permiten la utilización de parámetros sencillos en los procesos de selección de guayaba Cortibel para objetivos de mejoramiento.

Abstract The correlation between physical and chemical attributes of fruits can serve as indicators for the ideal harvest time and function as selection criteria to enhance the management and productivity of crops. This study aimed to investigate the correlations among physical and chemical properties of Cortibel guava fruits grown in the Brazilian Cerrado. Parameters assessed included skin and pulp color, weight, diameter, length, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and the ratio of these characteristics. Data were analyzed using Pearson's linear correlation with a significance level of P < 0.05. Several physical and chemical properties of the fruits exhibited significant correlations. The highest correlation coefficients were observed between weight and fruit diameter, as well as between hue angle of the skin and skin lightness. The properties of Cortibel guava fruits cultivated in the Brazilian Cerrado exhibit significant correlations. These findings enable the utilization of straightforward parameters in the selection processes of Cortibel guava for breeding objectives.

RESUMEN El manejo agroecológico está surgiendo como una alternativa prometedora al manejo agrícola actual, que se asocia con el deterioro de la calidad ambiental y la fertilidad del suelo. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la conversión del manejo convencional al manejo agroecológico mediante el análisis de las propiedades químicas y microbiológicas del suelo. Este estudio se llevó a cabo en un campo de la Chacra Experimental Barrow del Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA) en Buenos Aires, Argentina, donde se evaluaron dos tratamientos: manejo agroecológico (AE) y convencional (CV). Se tomaron muestras de suelo de 0 a 10 cm de profundidad y se determinaron diversos parámetros químicos y microbiológicos del suelo. El manejo AE resultó en una aparente restauración de la fertilidad del suelo, con aumentos en el carbono orgánico del suelo (COS), nitrógeno total (NT) y pH del 21%, 16% y 3%, respectivamente. El manejo AE también condujo a un aumento en las actividades de enzimas involucradas en el ciclo del carbono: celobiohidrolasa (CBH) y β-glucosidasa (BG), ciclo del nitrógeno: N-acetil-b-glucosamina (NAG) y ciclo del azufre: arilsulfatasa (SUL), así como un aumento en el carbono de la biomasa microbiana, y en la diversidad y riqueza de la comunidad bacteriana (p<0,05). Las comunidades bacterianas y fúngicas difirieron entre los tratamientos (PERMANOVA, bacterias p<0,017 r2=0,1074; hongos p<0,001, r2=0,1973). Las comunidades bacterianas y fúngicas del manejo AE fueron las únicas que se correlacionaron positiva y significativamente con las propiedades medidas, confirmando su papel clave en estos sistemas. La comunidad bacteriana correlaciono con los parametros COS, NT, BG y SUL, mientras que la comunidad fungica correlacionó con COS y BG. Estos resultados reafirman la importancia de mejorar la biodiversidad aérea como subsuperficial para mantener o restaurar la fertilidad del suelo.

ABSTRACT Agroecological management is emerging as a promising alternative to current agricultural management, which is associated with deterioration of environmental quality and soil fertility. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the conversion from conventional to agroecological management by analysing soil chemical and microbiological properties. This study was carried out in the Barrow Experimental Farm of the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), Buenos Aires, Argentina, where two treatments were evaluated: agroecological (AE) and conventional (CV) management. Samples were taken at 0 - 10 cm depth, and several soil chemical and microbiological parameters were determined. The AE management resulted in an apparent restoration of soil fertility, with increases in soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN) and pH of 21%, 16% and 3%, respectively. AE management also led to an increase in the activities of enzymes involved in the carbon cycle: cellobiohydrolase (CBH) and β-glucosidase (BG), nitrogen cycle: N-acetyl-b-glu-cosamine (NAG) and sulfur cycle: arylsulfatase (SUL), as well as an increase in the microbial biomass car-bon and in the diversity and richness of the bacterial community (p<0.05). Bacterial and fungal communities differed between treatments (PERMANOVA, bacteria p<0.017 r2=0.1074; fungi p<0.001, r2=0.1973). The bacterial and fungal communities of the AE management were the only ones that correlated positively and significantly with the measured properties, confirming their key role in this system. The bacterial community correlated with the parameters SOC, TN, BG and SUL, while the fungal community correlated with SOC and BG. These results confirm the importance of improving above and belowground biodiversity to maintain or restore soil fertility.

Resumen Introducción. La palma de aceite (Elaeis guineensis) es uno de los monocultivos perennes que se ha extendido a casi un poco más de diecinueve millones de hectáreas en el mundo, su expansión ha generado debate social, económico y político en diversos países tropicales. Una de las problemáticas que se ha discutido, es el impacto sobre las propiedades fisicoquímicas, biológicas y ecológicas del suelo. Objetivo. (i) Ofrecer un panorama actual de la expansión del cultivo de palma de aceite para una zona de la región Soconusco, Chiapas, México, (ii) documentar los efectos que provoca la palma de aceite sobre las propiedades fisicoquímicas y biológicas del suelo y (iii) presentar algunas propuestas de prácticas de manejo para incrementar la fertilidad y la abundancia de macroinvertebrados del suelo. Desarrollo. Se realizó la búsqueda de palabras clave en el apartado de “tópicos” dentro de la base de datos “Web of Science” del año 2009 hasta marzo del 2018. Se consultaron investigaciones que relacionan el cultivo de la palma de aceite con los parámetros físicos, químicos y biológicos del suelo. La literatura demuestra los efectos negativos que genera el monocultivo de palma de aceite sobre algunas propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo y sobre la ecología y biología de la macrofauna edáfica. Conclusión. Se muestra evidencia de que el mal manejo del monocultivo de la palma de aceite tiene implicaciones ambientales. La integración de buenas prácticas de manejo sostenibles, podrían mitigar los daños al suelo.

Abstract Introduction. Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is one of the perennial monocultures that has spread to almost a little more than nineteen million hectares in the world. Its expansion has generated social, economic, and political debate in various tropical countries. One of the problems that has been discussed is the impact on the physicochemical, biological, and ecological properties of the soil. Objective. (i) To provide a current overview of the expansion of oil palm cultivation in an area of the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, (ii) to document the effects caused by oil palm on the physicochemical and biological properties of the soil, and (iii) to present some proposals for management practices to increase the fertility and abundance of soil macroinvertebrates. Development. The search for keywords was carried out in the “topics” section within the “Web of Science” database from the year 2009 to March 2018. Research that relates the cultivation of oil palm with physical parameters, soil chemicals, and biology was consulted. The literature demonstrates the negative effects generated by oil palm monoculture on some physicochemical properties of the soil and the ecology and biology of the edaphic macrofauna. Conclusion. Evidence is show that the poor management of oil palm monoculture has environmental implications. The integration of good sustainable management practices could mitigate damage to the soil.