Resumen El fréjol es un cultivo importante debido a su alto valor nutritivo. En los últimos años la producción en Ecuador de este cultivo ha disminuido drásticamente debido entre otros factores a ineficientes procesos y falta de tecnificación en la producción. Entender cómo se generan y determinan los componentes del rendimiento del grano es primordial para diseñar estrategias que permitan aumentar el rendimiento del cultivo. En este estudio, se modificó la densidad de plantas con el objetivo de evaluar su impacto sobre el número de granos, peso de granos y rendimiento, bajo condiciones de campo en una región andina de Ecuador. Se realizaron dos experimentos sembrados en fechas distintas, donde se evaluaron densidades de plantas contrastantes 4 y 11 plantas m−2. El efecto de los tratamientos se estudió sobre la duración del periodo emergencia - antesis, el número de vainas llenas y vanas, el número de granos, el peso seco de 100 granos y el rendimiento de grano. Los resultados indican que la densidad de plantas tiene un efecto significativo (p<0,05) sobre el rendimiento, alcanzando un promedio de 257,15 g m−2 en alta densidad y 151,45 g m−2 en baja densidad. Los componentes principales del rendimiento mostraron una respuesta distinta a la modificación de la densidad de plantas; el número de granos presentó una fuerte variabilidad y fue positivamente asociado con el rendimiento final del grano (p<0,05), mientras que el peso del grano no fue afectado.

Abstract Common bean is an important crop due to its high nutritional value. However, its production in Ecuador has decreased due to biotic and abiotic factors. Understanding the mechanisms that determine the yield components of this crop is essential to establish strategies that allow increasing the yield. In this study, the plant density was modified to evaluate its impact on yield and its two main components, the grain number and grain weight under field conditions in an Andean region of Ecuador. Two experiments planted on different dates were performed, where two planting densities 4 and 11 plants m−2 were evaluated. The effect of the treatments was studied on the length of the period, from emergence to anthesis, the number of full and empty pods, grain number, 100 grain weight and grain yield. The results indicate that the plant density has a significant effect (p<0.05) on the yield, reaching an average of 257.15 g m−2 in high density, and 151.45 g m−2 in low density. The yield main components showed a different response to plant density modification; the grain number exhibited a strong variability and was positively associated with final grain yield (p<0.05) while the grain weight was not affected.

Abstract: Background: Eragrostis plana is an invasive plant in native grassland areas associated with degradation of the Pampa biome. Selective control of E. plana is difficult due to its similarity to other grassland species. There is a lack of information about E. plana control using selective herbicide application equipment. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a pressurize rope wick applicator for controlling the invasive plant E. plana as function of different salts of glyphosate, application volumes, and year seasons. Methods: The studies were carried out under field conditions and repeated. The first study evaluated glyphosate salts of isopropylamine, dimethylamine, monoammonium, diammonium, and potassium at doses of 720 and 1440 g ha-1 and clethodim at 60 and 120 g ha-1. The second study assessed application volumes of 8, 24, 40, and 56 L ha-1 using isopropylamine and potassium salts of glyphosate. Results: Glyphosate applied in summer was more effective at controlling E. plana, with less regrowth than glyphosate application in winter. The glyphosate diammonium was more effective at controlling E. plana than isopropylamine, dimethylamine, monoammonium, or potassium salt formulations at 1440 g ha-1. Application volume of glyphosate between 8 and 40 L ha-1 provided similar control of E. plana and pasture selectivity. Conclusions: Glyphosate applied with a rope wick selective applicator was effective in controlling E. plana clumps and was selective to grassland. The control efficacy varied as a function of glyphosate salts and year season, but not due to application volume of 8 and 40 L ha-1.

Resumo A toxoplasmose, causada pelo protozoário Toxoplasma gondii, é uma zoonose e uma das doenças parasitárias transmitidas por alimentos mais importantes em todo o mundo. A prevalência em humanos é altamente variável, sendo influenciada por hábitos culturais, condições socioeconômicas e ambientais. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência de infecção por T. gondii em humanos, no arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco, Brasil, e identificar os fatores de risco associados a essa infecção nesse contexto insular. A soroprevalência de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii nos ilhéus foi de 50,4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45,2%–55,7%). Os fatores associados à infecção encontrados foram o consumo de água do poço ou de água da chuva (Odds ratio [OR]: 2,43, p=0,020) e consumo de carne de caça (OR: 1,80, p=0,026). Este é o primeiro estudo a fornecer informações epidemiológicas da infecção por T. gondii entre os moradores da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, revelando uma considerável soroprevalência de anticorpos nessa população. Este estudo fornece informações para subsidiar a adoção de medidas de prevenção e controle em ambientes insulares.

Abstract Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%–55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de doses de metsulfurom-metílico, aplicadas em diferentes épocas, sobre as características fisiológicas e produtivas da soja (Glycine max), em dois anos agrícolas, em condições de campo, tendo-se utilizado o pepino (Cucumis sativus) como planta bioindicadora, em casa de vegetação. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em blocos ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 4x5, com quatro repetições. O fator A foi o tempo de aplicação do herbicida (45, 30, 15 e 0 dias antes da semeadura da soja, DAS), e o fator B foi a dose de metsulfurom-metílico (0, 3,6, 5,4, 7,2 e 9,0 g ha-1 i.a.). Foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: fitotoxicidade, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila a e componentes de rendimento. A maior fitotoxicidade em plantas de soja é observada após o uso da maior dose de metsulfurom-metílico e com semeadura em 0 DAS. A taxa de transporte de elétrons reduz drasticamente com o aumento da dose de metsulfurom-metílico e da proximidade da semeadura, enquanto a extinção não fotoquímica, como mecanismo de defesa, aumenta em plantas de soja expostas ao transporte de herbicida de até 5,4 g ha-1. Os resíduos de metsulfurom-metílico reduzem o peso de mil grãos e a produtividade de soja em função da dose de aplicação e do período de semeadura. Para as plantas de pepino, também foram verificados efeitos negativos nas características fisiológicas. Um intervalo de mais de 45 dias é recomendado para a semeadura da soja após a aplicação de metsulfurom-metílico para dessecação.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of metsulfuron-methyl rates, applied at different times, on the physiological and productive traits of soybean (Glycine max) in two crop years, in field conditions, using cucumber (Cucumis sativus) as a bioindicator plant, in greenhouse conditions. The experiments were conducted in a randomized complete block, in a 4x5 factorial arrangement, with four replicates. Factor A was the herbicide application time (45, 30, 15, and 0 days before soybean sowing, DBS), and factor B was the metsulfuron-methyl rate (0, 3.6, 5.4, 7.2, and 9.0 g ha-1 a.i.). The following variables were evaluated: phytotoxicity, gas exchange, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and yield components. The highest phytotoxicity in soybean plants is observed after the use of the highest rate of metsulfuron-methyl and with sowing at 0 DBS. The electron transport rate drastically reduces with an increasing metsulfuron-methyl rate and sowing proximity, whereas non-photochemical quenching, acting as a defense mechanism, increases in soybean plants exposed to a herbicide carryover of up to 5.4 g ha-1. Metsulfuron-methyl carryover reduces soybean 1,000-grain weight and productivity as a function of application rate and sowing period. For the cucumber plants, negative effects on physiological traits were also verified. An interval of more than 45 days is recommended for sowing soybean after metsulfuron-methyl application for desiccation.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever uma população de pacientes diagnosticadas com toxoplasmose na gestação e seus respectivos recém-nascidos, relatando o protocolo do hospital durante o tratamento e seguimento. Métodos Coorte retrospectiva de gestantes com infecção aguda por toxoplasmose e risco de transmissão transplacentária, encaminhadas para acompanhamento pelo Grupo deMedicina Fetal doHospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA) entre 1o de janeiro de 2006 e 31 de dezembro de 2016. Todas as pacientes comdoença confirmada foram incluídas. O protocolo de diagnóstico e tratamento foi aplicado; uma análise da reação em cadeia da polimerase (RCP) no líquido amniótico foi utilizada para diagnosticar a toxoplasmose e determinar o tratamento. Os recém-nascidos foram acompanhados no ambulatório de pediatria especializadoeminfecções congênitas. Pacientes que não foramseguidas ou cujo parto não foi feito no hospital foram excluídas. Resultados A toxoplasmose gestacional foi confirmada em 65 pacientes; 40 realizaram amniocentese, e 6 (15%) foram identificadas com RCP positiva no líquido amniótico. Este resultado associado à idade gestacional definiu a terapia tríplice durante a gestação em 5 casos, e a monoterapia em 1 caso (por idade gestacional avançada). Quatro destas crianças foram tratadas desde o nascimento com terapia tríplice por 12 meses, 1 não foi tratada (por recusa materna), e 1 evoluiu com óbito dentro das primeiras 54 horas de vida devido a complicações da toxoplasmose congênita. Dos 34 casos remanescentes com RCP negativa, 33 foram tratados com monoterapia, e 1 foi tratado com terapia tríplice (por achados ultrassonográficos); destes recém-nascidos, 9 (26,5%) tiveram imunoglobulina G (IgG) negativa, 24 (70,6%) tiveram IgG positiva, mas nenhum apresentou imunoglobulina M (IgM) positiva, e 1 (2,9%) apresentou alterações compatíveis comdoença congênita e iniciou a terapia tríplice logo após o nascimento. Entre as 25 pacientes que não fizeram RCP no líquido amniótico, 5 foram tratadas com terapia tríplice (por achados ultrassonográficos/ tratamento prévio) e 20 receberam monoterapia; somente 2 recém-nascidos receberam tratamento para toxoplasmose congênita. Entre os 65 casos de toxoplasmose gestacional, 6 (9,2%) recém-nascidos tiveram o diagnóstico de toxoplasmose congênita. Um total de 2 pacientes submetidas à terapia tríplice apresentaram efeitos adversos severos das medicações utilizadas. Conclusão Este estudo sugere que a triagem da RCP para toxoplasmose do líquido amniótico pode ser útil no rastreamento de pacientes com maior potencial para complicações fetais, que podem se beneficiar do tratamento poli antimicrobiano. Pacientes com RCP negativa devem continuar a prevenir a infecção fetal com monoterapia, sem risco de comprometimento fetal ou materno.

Abstract Objective To describe a population of pregnant women diagnosed with toxoplasmosis and their respective newborns, describing the hospital protocol for treatment and follow-up. Methods Retrospective cohort of pregnant women with acute toxoplasmosis infection and risk of transplacental transmission who were sent to the Fetal Medicine Group of Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA) between - January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2016. All patients with confirmed disease were included. The diagnostic protocol and treatment were applied; a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of the amniotic fluid was used to diagnose toxoplasmosis and determine the treatment. The newborns were followed up at the pediatric outpatient clinic specializing in congenital infection. The patients who were not followed up or were not born in the HCPA were excluded. Results A total of 65 patients were confirmed to have gestational toxoplasmosis; 40 performed amniocentesis, and 6 (15%) were identified as having positive PCR in the amniotic fluid. In five of those cases, this result associated with the gestational age defined the triple therapy during pregnancy, and in one case, it defined the monotherapy (advanced gestational age). A total of 4 of these newborns were treated from birth with triple therapy for 10months, 1 was not treated (due to maternal refusal), and 1 progressed to death within the first 54 hours of life due to complications of congenital toxoplasmosis. Of the 34 remaining cases with a negative PCR, 33 were treated with monotherapy and 1 was treated with triple therapy (ultrasound findings); of these children, 9 (26.5%) presented negative immunoglobulin G (IgG), 24 (70.6%) presented positive IgG (but none presented positive immunoglobulin M [IgM]), and 1 (2,9%) presented alterations compatible with congenital disease and started treatment with the triple therapy soon after birth. Out of the total sample of 60 patients, among the 25 who did not perform amniotic fluid PCR, 5 were treated with triple therapy (ultrasound findings/prior treatment) and 20 patients were submitted to monotherapy; only two newborns underwent treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis. Among the 65 cases of gestational toxoplasmosis, 6 (9,2%) children had a diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis, and 2 patients with triple therapy felt severe adverse effects of the medications. Conclusions The present study suggests that research on PCR screening of the amniotic fluid may be useful to identify patients with a higher potential for fetal complications, who may benefit from the poly-antimicrobial treatment. Patients with negative PCR results must continue to prevent fetal infection with monotherapy, without risk of fetal or maternal impairment.

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la incidencia de las condiciones climáticas sobre el cultivo de Salvia hispanica L., conocida comercialmente como Chía, durante las campañas 2014 y 2015, para la zona núcleo de la pampa húmeda, centro-sur de Santa Fe (Argentina). La siembra se hizo en una parcela de 2 ha en el Campo experimental de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias (FCA) de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), en la localidad de Zavalla (Santa Fe). Se emplearon semillas provenientes de lotes comerciales cultivados en la provincia de Salta y las evaluaciones durante ambas compañas fueron: altura de plantas, número de espigas por planta, peso de 1000 semillas y poder germinativo de las semillas cosechadas. Se observó que las heladas ocurridas no afectaron el desarrollo del cultivo. Como consecuencia de las abundantes precipitaciones y de las menores temperaturas registradas en la campaña 2014 con respecto a las de 2015, en la primera ocurrió una fuerte incidencia del hongo Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, que provocó que el número de espigas por planta (16) y el peso de 1000 semillas (0.904 g) fueran inferiores a las obtenidas en 2015 (78 espigas/planta y 1297 g el peso de 1000 semillas), junto a la aparición de semillas vanas y a un descenso del poder germinativo. Las condiciones de clima presentes durante el ciclo de cultivo de S. hispanica en la pampa húmeda tienen una incidencia directa en el desarrollo de la planta y en la producción y calidad de los frutos cosechados.

Abstract The aim of the research was to analyze environmental conditions incidence on Salvia hispanica L. during 2014 and 2015 crop years at the Humid Pampa core zone. Sowing was made in a 2 ha plot of the Experimental Camp at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences (FCA) of the Nacional University of Rosario (UNR), placed in Zavalla, Santa Fe, Argentina. Seeds used came from commercial crops grown in the province of Salta, Argentina. Parameters evaluated in both 2014 and 2015 crop years were: plant height, number of spikes per plant, weight of 1000 seeds and germinative power. Crop development was not affected by frost. During 2014 crop year, the great amount of rain and low temperatures allowed a higher incidence of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. These conditions caused a lower number of spikes per plant (15,9) and weight of 1000 seeds (0,904 g) than 2015 crop year (77,8 spikes/ plant and 1,297 g weight of 1000 seeds). In 2014 crop year, empty seeds and a lower germinative power seeds was observed. Climatic conditions during S. hispanica culture cycle in the Humid Pampa’s zone directly affected the crop development and also quality and production of harvested fruits.

A 5-year-old boy presented to hospital with mild local cytotoxic and severe neurotoxic symptoms. The neurotoxic symptoms included ptosis, fixed dilated pupils and flaccid paralysis with respiratory failure. Mild hyponatraemia was also a clinical feature. After various unsuccessful treatment options were followed, the Tygerberg Poison Information Centre was contacted and a diagnosis of berg adder bite was made. Berg adder bites are uncommon and therefore not usually considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with an unexplained clinical picture. A timeous poison information helpline consultation is recommended in this situation.

Entre os gases de efeito estufa, o óxido nitroso (N2O) é considerado importante por apresentar poder de aquecimento 296 vezes maior que o dióxido de carbono (CO2) e tem sua dinâmica muito dependente da disponibilidade de C e de N mineral no solo. Portanto, conhecer os fatores que interferem na sua emissão é fundamental para desenvolver estratégias de mitigação. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a dinâmica da emissão de N2O na presença de diferentes quantidades de palha de arroz e de teores de nitrato na solução do solo. Para tal, nove tratamentos com a combinação de doses de nitrato de sódio (equivalente a 0, 50 e 100 g kg-1 de N-NO−3) e as quantidades de palha de arroz (equivalente a 0, 5 e 10 Mg ha-1) foram aplicados em vasos, onde foram submetidos a condições anaeróbicas por alagamento. A emissão de N2O foi influenciada positivamente pela maior dose de NO−3 e pela menor quantidade de palha adicionada no solo. No 1º dia após alagamento (DAA), a emissão de N2O foi alterada de forma significativa entre os tratamentos, com e sem adição de NO−3, com pouca interferência da presença da palha de arroz nesse momento. O maior pico de emissão foi observado no 4º DAA nos tratamentos com maior adição de NO−3; naquele momento, a adição da palha de arroz provocou efeito negativo sobre a emissão de N2O, provavelmente por causa da imobilização do NO−3. Também houve alterações nas demais características eletroquímicas do solo, em que as maiores adições de palha elevaram os teores de Fe, Mn e C dissolvido. Esses resultados indicaram que a redução da concentração de NO−3 no solo e o aumento da quantidade de palha incorporada diminuem a emissão de N2O.

Among the greenhouse gases, nitrous oxide (N2O) is considered important, in view of a global warming potential 296 times greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2) and its dynamics strongly depend on the availability of C and mineral N in the soil. The understanding of the factors that define emissions is essential to develop mitigation strategies. This study evaluated the dynamics of N2O emissions after the application of different rice straw amounts and nitrate levels in soil solution. Pots containing soil treated with sodium nitrate rates (0, 50 and 100 g kg-1 of NO−3-N) and rice straw levels (0, 5 and 10 Mg ha-1), i.e., nine treatments, were subjected to anaerobic conditions. The results showed that N2O emissions were increased by the addition of greater NO−3 amounts and reduced by large straw quantities applied to the soil. On the 1st day after flooding (DAF), significantly different N2O emissions were observed between the treatments with and without NO−3 addition, when straw had no significant influence on N2O levels. Emissions peaked on the 4th DAF in the treatments with highest NO−3-N addition. At this moment, straw application negatively affected N2O emissions, probably due to NO−3 immobilization. There were also alterations in other soil electrochemical characteristics, e.g., higher straw levels raised the Fe, Mn and dissolved C contents. These results indicate that a lowering of NO−3 concentration in the soil and the increase of straw incorporation can decrease N2O emissions.

O uso de plantas para descontaminar água e solo contaminados com poluentes orgânicos e inorgânicos é uma tecnologia promissora para a agricultura sustentável. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência de espécies vegetais na remediação da mistura formulada de imazetapir + imazapique, utilizando a cultivar de arroz irrigado IRGA 417 como planta bioindicadora. Os tratamentos foram compostos pela combinação entre 13 espécies vegetais e sete doses da mistura formulada de imazetapir + imazapique (75 + 25 g e.a. L-1, respectivamente): zero, 200; 300; 400; 500; 1.000 e 4.000 mL ha-1. Para a avaliação do pontecial fitorremediador dessas espécies foram avaliadas a altura e sintomas de fitointoxicação nas plantas de arroz irrigado, aos 7; 14; 21 e 28 dias após a emergência, e massa seca da parte aérea aos 28 dias após a emergência. Glycine max, Lolium multiflorum e Lotus corniculatus por serem mais adaptadas a ambientes hidromórficos, característica essa encontrada em solos cultivados com arroz irrigado, são espécies potencialmente promissoras em fitorremediar solos contaminados com o herbicida imazetapir + imazapique (até 4.000 mL ha-1). Crotalaria juncea, Canavalia ensiformis, Stizolobium aterrimum, Vicia sativa, Raphanus sativus e Triticum aestivum são espécies capazes de fitorremediar solos contaminados com imazetapir + imazapique, porém a ocorrência de anoxia em solos hidromórficos dificultam o estabelecimento e desenvolvimento das plantas.

The use of plants to decontaminate water and soil contaminated with both organic and inorganic pollutants is a promising technology for sustainable agriculture. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of plant species in the remediation of formulated mixtures of imazethapyr and imazapic, using the irrigated rice cultivar IRGA 417 as bioindicator. The treatments consisted of the combination of 13 plant species with seven rates of a formulated mixture of imazethapyr and Imazapic (75+25 g e.a. L-1 respectively): 0, 200, 300, 400, 500, 1000 and 4000 mL ha-1. To evaluate the potential for phytoremediation in these species, symptoms of injury and plant height were measured in rice plants at 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after emergence and shoot dry weight at 28 days after emergence. Glycine max, Lolium multiflorum and Lotus corniculatus are potentially promising species in the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with the herbicide imazethapyr and imazapic (up to 4000 mL ha-1), due to being more adapted to hydromorphic environments, which is a feature found in soils cultivated with irrigated rice. Crotalaria juncea, Canavalia ensiformis, Stizolobium aterrimum, Vicia sativa, Raphanus sativus and Triticum aestivum are species capable of the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with imazethapyr + imazapic, however the occurrence of anoxia in hydromorphic soils reduce the establishment and development of these plants.

INTRODUCTION: L'ostéoarthrite (OA) est une condition chronique. Les médicaments antiinflammatoires non-stéroïdes - piliers du soulagement symptomatique - peuvent causer des effets nocifs graves, surtout chez les personnes âgées. Un ensemble de preuves anecdotiques probantes ont attiré l'attention des auteurs sur le potentiel thérapeutique du supplément alimentaire du Multiforce® Alkaline Powder (MF) pour le soulagement des symptômes d'ostéoarthrite OBJECTIFS: Le but de l'étude était de tester, au moyen d'essais contrôlés randomisés, l'hypothèse que le supplément alimentaire avec MF soulage les signes et les symptômes cliniques de l'OA des mains MÉTHODES: La recherché a été faite en deux phases. Une étude ouverte interventionnelle (n = 40) a confirmé la notion que 7.5 g de MF deux fois par jour est une alternative ou un supplément efficace pour le soulagement des symptômes d'ostéoarthrite des mains. Là-dessus l'étude principale a été faite sur 100 volontaires admissibles et consentants (47-89 ans), selon un plan croisé, randomisé et contrôlé par placebo; n = 50 par groupe de traitement A et B (verum n = 50- groupe A, et placebo n = 50- groupe B, spécifiant quel traitement a été fait en premier). La durée de l'étude était de 56 jours, 28 jours par régime. La transition aux régimes alternés s'est faite le 28ème jour. Les visites cliniques ont eu lieu tous les quinze jours RÉSULTATS: Comparativement au placebo, la prise de MF pendant 28 jours a montré des réductions significatives des douleurs (p < 0.005), de la sensibilité et de la raideur des articulations inter-phalangiennes et métacarpo-phalangiennes de la main. La confirmation d'une alcalinisation par MF, riche en anions organiques sous forme de sels de citrate, a été vérifiée par une augmentation importante et prolongée du pH de l'urine. La prise de MF a été bien tolérée CONCLUSION: Le supplément alimentaire, Multiforce® Alkaline Powder, contenant des sels de citrate qui sont convertis en bicarbonate in vivo, est efficace et sans danger quand il sert de seule thérapie, et il atténue considérablement les signes et les symptômes associés à l'ostéoarthrite des mains.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs recommended for treatment have serious adverse effects. A compelling body of anecdotal evidence alerted the authors to the therapeutic potential of dietary supplementation with Multiforce® (MF) Alkaline Powder for relief of OA symptoms AIM: The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that dietary supplementation with MF relieves clinical signs and symptoms of OA of the hands SETTING: The study was done at the MEDSAC hospital in Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa METHODS: The research was conducted in two stages. An open interventional study (n = 40) confirmed the notion that MF 7.5 g twice daily is likely to be an effective alternative or adjunct for relief of symptoms of OA of the hands. The main study was conducted with 100 eligible, consenting volunteers (aged 47-89 years) according to a randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover design. Study duration was 56 days, 28 days per regimen; crossover to alternate regimens took place on day 28 RESULTS: Compared to placebo, MF intake over 28 days was associated with significant reductions ( p < 0.005) in pain, tenderness and stiffness of interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints of the hand. Confirmation of systemic alkalinisation by MF, which is rich in organic anions in the form of citrate salts, was reflected by a significant and sustained increase in urine pH CONCLUSION: A dietary supplement, Multiforce® Alkaline Powder, containing citrate salts which are converted into bicarbonate in vivo, was efficacious and safe as sole therapeutic intervention, significantly attenuating OA-associated signs and symptoms of the hands.

The influence of the pH of the bark of two tree species belonging at Nothofagus genus on the lichen and bryophyte richness was studied. The tree species considered for this study were: N. dombeyi and N. macracarpa situated in two pre-Andean localities; one in the "Radal Siete Tazas" National Reserve and the other in the "Altos de Lircay" National Reserve, Central Chile. In each locality, a total of 20 phorophytes were examined: 10 N. dombeyi and 10 N. obliqua. In each phorophyte, the total lichens and bryophytes were inventoried, the diameter of each one of the phorophytes was measured at breast height (DHA) and, in addition, 10 g of bark were extracted in order to check the pH. The pH of the bark was determined by means of the Mezger’s method (1996) and afterwards related to the lichen and bryophyte richness found in the phorophytes of each tree species sampled in both localities. In both localities, the pH of bark of the N. dombeyi phorophytes was markedly more acidic than the one of the N. obliqua. Statistical analyses show a significant difference between the pH of one species and other. The pH of the barks of N. dombeyi and N. obliqua phorophytes, in both localities, not correlated with the richness of the different groups (lichens, mosses and liverworts). However, according to the inventories carried, it observed that some species of lichens have a close relation with the pH of the bark of one or other of the two tree species studied and only a low percentage of them were indifferent to pH of the phorophytes. The mosses preferred bark with pH near to neutrality such as those of N. obliqua, while the liverworts preferred bark were more acid, such as the ones of N. dombeyi.

Se estudió la influencia del pH de las cortezas de dos especies arbóreas del género Nothofagus sobre la riqueza de líquenes y briófitos. Las especies arbóreas consideradas en este estudio fueron: N. dombeyi y N. obliqua situadas en dos localidades preandinas: una dentro del Reserva Nacional "Radal Siete Tazas" y la otra en la Reserva Nacional "Altos de Lircay", Chile central. En cada localidad, un total de 20 forófitos fueron examinados: 10 N. dombeyi y 10 N. obliqua. En cada forófito, el total de líquenes y briófitos fue inventariado, el diámetro de cada uno de los forófitos fue medido a la altura del DAP y además 10 g de corteza por forófito fue extraída para verificación del pH. El pH de las cortezas fue determinado por medio del método de Mezger (1996) y más tarde fue relacionado con la riqueza de líquenes y briófitos encontrada en los forófitos muestreados de cada especie arbórea, en ambas localidades. En ambas localidades, el pH de las cortezas de los forófitos de N. dombeyi fueron más ácidas que aquellas de N. obliqua. Los análisis estadísticos análisis revelan una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre el pH de una especie a otra. El pH de la corteza de forófitos de N. dombeyi y N. obliqua, en ambas localidades, no se correlaciona con la riqueza de los diferentes grupos (líquenes, musgos y hepáticas) analizados, sin embargo, y de acuerdo a los inventarios realizados, se pudo observar que algunas especies de líquenes presenta una estrecha relación con el pH de las cortezas de una u otra de las especies arbóreas estudiadas y sólo un bajo porcentaje de éstas se mostraron indiferentes al pH de los forófitos. Los musgos prefieren cortezas más cercanas a la neutralidad como las de N. obliqua, mientras que las hepáticas prefieren cortezas más ácidas como las de N. dombeyi.

A fitoestimulação é uma das técnicas de fitorremediação que pode ser utilizada para a redução da concentração dos herbicidas no solo. Para tanto é necessário a seleção de plantas que estimulem a atividade dos microrganismos degradadores da rizosfera. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a biodegradação de cinco doses do herbicida composto pela mistura formulada de imazetapir+imazapique (75 + 25 g e.a. L-1) em solo rizosférico proveniente de seis espécies vegetais com potencial para a fitoestimulação. A biodegradação do herbicida nas doses de 0, 250, 500, 1.000 e 4.000mL ha-1 no solo rizosférico de Canavalia ensiformis, Glycine max, Lolium multiflorum, Lotus corniculatus, Stizolobium aterrimum, Vicia sativa e no solo sem cultivo foi avaliada através da quantificação da produção de C-CO2 do solo e da degradação do herbicida no solo por cromatografia líquida acoplada à espectrometria de massa. A produção de C-CO2 do solo após a contaminação com a mistura de imazetapir+imazapique foi maior nos solos rizosféricos das seis espécies vegetais se comparado ao solo não cultivado. O solo rizosférico de Stizolobium aterrimum apresentou a maior degradação do herbicida imazetapir nas maiores doses avaliadas, sendo uma espécie promissora para a fitoestimulação.

Phytostimulation is a technique of phytoremediation that can be used to reduce the concentration of herbicides in the soil. It is necessary to select plants that stimulate the activity of the rizosphere degrading microorganism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of the biodegradation of the herbicide compound formulated mixture of imazethapyr + imazapic (75 + and 25 g L-1) in rhizosphere soil from six plant species with potential for phytostimulation. Biodegradation of the herbicide in the rhizosphere soil of Canavalia ensiformis, Glycine max, Lolium multiflorum, Lotus corniculatus, Stizolobium aterrimum and Vicia sativa, and a control (soil without plant) was evaluated at doses of 0, 250, 500, 1.000 and 4.000mL 1 ha, by quantifying the production of C-CO2 of the soil and the degradation of the herbicide from the soil by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The production of C-CO2 of the soil after the contamination with the mixture imazethapyr + imazapic was higher in the rhizosphere soil of the six plant species when compared to soil not cultivated. The rhizospheric soil from Stizolobium aterrimum shouwed the highest degradation of the herbicide imazetapyr on the highest doses evaluated, being a promising specie for phytostimulation.

A busca por uma viticultura mais sustentável exige o estudo de fontes alternativas de nutrientes que causem menor impacto ambiental. Neste contexto, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses de cinzas vegetais e esterco bovino no desenvolvimento de videiras cv. Isabel. As doses utilizadas foram: 0; 750;1.500 e 2.250 g planta-1 de cinzas vegetais e 0; 5 e 10 kg planta-1 de esterco bovino, em esquema fatorial 4x3, com 12 tratamentos, cinco repetições e duas plantas por parcela. Nos dois primeiros ciclos de desenvolvimento vegetativo, foram avaliados o diâmetro dos ramos e o diâmetro do tronco e, no segundo ciclo, foi avaliado o índice de área foliar e realizadas as análises químicas de teores foliares de nutrientes. Houve efeitos positivos dos tratamentos para todas as variáveis estudadas, com mais evidência para as avaliações de índice de área foliar. De modo geral, para a maioria das variáveis, a dose de 5 kg planta-1 de esterco teve os melhores resultados, acrescido de 750 ou 1.500 g planta-1 de cinzas vegetais, ou o uso exclusivo de 10 kg planta-1de esterco bovino. No entanto, este último tratamento aumentou excessivamente o conteúdo de N, o que poderia ser prejudicial às plantas. Concluiu-se que as duas fontes podem ser usadas de maneira a suprir as exigências nutricionais de plantas jovens de videira, necessitando, dependendo das condições de solo, de uma suplementação com potássio e cálcio.

The search for a more sustainable viticulture requires the study of alternative sources that causes less environmental impact. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different doses of wood ashes and cattle manure on the vegetative growth of grapevines cv. Isabella. The following doses were used: 0, 750, 1500, 2250 g plant-1 of wood ashes and 0, 5 and 10 kg plant-1 of cattle manure, in a factorial scheme 4x3, with 12 treatments, five replications and two plant per plot. In the first two vegetative cycles, it was evaluated the diameter of canes and trunk and; on the second cycle, it was evaluated the leaf area index and carried out the chemical analysis of nutrients leaf content. It was verified positive effects of treatments for all variables studied, with more evidence for the leaf area index evaluations. In general, for the most variables, the dose of 5 kg plant-1 of cattle manure attained the best results, added to 750 or 1500 g plant-1 of wood ashes, or the exclusive use of 10 kg plant-1 of cattle manure. Nevertheless, this last treatment increased excessively the N content, what could be harmful to plants. It was concluded that the two sources could be used to supply the nutritional exigencies of young vines, needing, depending on soil conditions, a supplement with potassium and calcium.

BACKGROUND: The incidence and spectrum of acute poisonings in South Africa are unknown. Poisoning data can be derived from sources such as hospital admission records and poison information centre (PIC) records. OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to examine the extent of the problem and to identify trends and toxicovigilance issues using PIC data. METHODS: A survey was conducted based on Tygerberg Poison Information Centre (TPIC) consultations over 1 year. TPIC consultation forms were analysed for patient demographics and causes of poisoning. RESULTS: The TPIC dealt with 4 771 consultations related to human exposures to poisonous substances. The study showed that accidental exposure was more common than intentional poisoning (65.2% v. 34.8%); that 55.8% of cases were adults, of which 57.6% were females; and that 61.4% of adult cases were intentional exposures, and of these 64.3% were females. There was a predominance of accidental exposures (98.8%) and a male predominance (59.7%) in children. Categories of poisoning exposures across all age groups were non-drug chemicals (52.7%), medicines (35.2%) and biological toxins (12.6%). Pesticides (34.8%), irritant/corrosive substances (27.7%) and volatile hydrocarbons (8.3%) were the most common classes of non-drug chemical exposures. Cholinesterase inhibitors (8.8%), anticoagulant rodenticides (7.1%) and pyrethroids (5.0%) were the most commonly ingested non-drug chemicals. Aldicarb and amitraz poisoning were identified as toxicovigilance targets. Analgesics (26.1%) were the most common class of medicine-related exposure, and paracetamol (15.8%), benzodiazepines (9.2%) and antihistamines (5.2%) were the most common medicine-related exposures. CONCLUSION: The study provided information on evolving trends and identified toxicovigilance targets and the need for continuing toxicology education programmes.