Compositional and toxicological investigation of pooled venom from farm-raised Naja atra

Abstract Background: Naja atra is a venomous snake species medically relevant in China. In the current study, we evaluated the composition and toxicological profile of venom collected from farm-raised N. atra. Methods: Venom was collected from third-generation captive bred N. atra on a snake farm in Hunan Province, China. The venom was analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and nano-liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. In addition, hemolytic activity, median lethal dose, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters were accessed. Results: N. atra venom proteome was dominated by phospholipase A2 (46.5%) and three-finger toxins (41.4 %), and a set of common low relative abundance proteins, including cysteine-rich secretory proteins (4.7%), NGF-beta (2.4%), snake venom metalloproteinase (1.5%), glutathione peroxidase (0.6%), vespryn (0.3%), and 5-nucleotidases (0.2%) were also found. Furthermore, the venom exhibited direct hemolytic activity, neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, and high lethal potency in mice, with a subcutaneous median lethal dose of 1.02 mg/kg. Histopathological analysis and serum biochemical tests revealed that venom caused acute hepatic, pulmonary and renal injury in mice. Conclusion: This study revealed the composition and toxicity of venom collected from farm-raised N. atra, thereby providing a reference for the analysis of venom samples collected from captive-born venomous snakes in the future.

Comparative compositional and functional venomic profiles among venom specimens from juvenile, subadult and adult Russell's viper ( Daboia siamensis ): correlation with renal pathophysiology in experimental rabbits

Abstract Background: Eastern Russell's viper (Daboia siamensis) is one of the most medically significant snakes responsible for the development of acute renal failure. However, variation of the clinical picture and renal pathophysiology following bites by young and adult D. siamensis have not been elucidated. Methods: In this study, we analyzed the venomic profiles of D. siamensis at different maturation stages of juvenile, subadult and adult groups. The same pooled venom from each group was subjected to enzymatic, electrophoretic and proteomic analysis, including sublethal toxicity (0.1 mg/kg iv.) examined on bodily functions by comparing the venom compositional and functional profiles among venom specimens from juvenile, subadult and adult D. siamensis by correlating them with the renal pathophysiology in experimental rabbits. Results: The comparative studies revealed that juvenile venom possessed higher phospholipase A2 , metalloproteinase and serine proteinase levels, while subadult and adult venoms contained more L-amino acid oxidase, phosphodiesterase, the Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor, disintegrin families and endothelial growth factor. An in vivo study revealed that the adult and subadult venoms caused persistent hypotension and bradycardia, while thrombocytopenia was a more characteristic effect of juvenile venom. All venom age groups showed significant reductions in renal hemodynamics and electrolyte excretions. The juvenile venom caused a higher tubulonephrosis lesion score than adult and subadult venoms. Conclusions: The D. siamensis venom shows an ontogenetic shift in its compositions and activities. Renal function alterations after envenomation depend on either the synergistic actions of different venom components or the disproportionate expression between the concentrations of enzymatic and non-enzymatic proteins in each age venom group. The high proportion of enzymatic toxin proteins in the juvenile venom results in greater nephrotoxicity.(AU)

Venom composition of Trimeresurus albolabris, T. insularis, T. puniceus and T. purpureomaculatus from Indonesia

Background: Several studies have been published on the characterization of Trimeresurus venoms. However, there is still limited information concerning the venom composition of Trimeresurus species distributed throughout Indonesia, which contributes to significant snakebite envenomation cases. The present study describes a comparative on the composition of T. albolabris, T. insularis, T. puniceus, and T. purpureomaculatus venoms originated from Indonesia. Methods: Protein content in the venom of four Trimeresurus species was determined using Bradford assay, and the venom proteome was elucidated using one-dimension SDS PAGE nano-ESI- LCMS/MS shotgun proteomics. Results: The venom of T. albolabris contained the highest protein content of 11.1 mg/mL, followed by T. puniceus, T. insularis and T. purpureomaculatus venom with 10.7 mg/mL, 8.9 mg/mL and 5.54 mg/mL protein, respectively. In total, our venomic analysis identified 65 proteins belonging to 16 protein families in T. purpureomaculatus; 64 proteins belonging to 18 protein families in T. albolabris; 58 different proteins belonging to 14 protein families in T. puniceus; and 48 different proteins belonging to 14 protein familiesin T. insularis. Four major proteins identified in all venoms belonged to snake venom metalloproteinase, C-type lectin, snake venom serine protease, and phospholipase A2. There were 11 common proteins in all venoms, and T. puniceus venom has the highest number of unique proteins compared to the other three venoms. Cluster analysis of the proteins and venoms showed that T. puniceus venom has the most distinct venom composition. Conclusions: Overall, the results highlighted venom compositional variation of four Trimeresurus spp. from Indonesia. The venoms appear to be highly similar, comprising at least four protein families that correlate with venom's toxin properties and function. This study adds more information on venom variability among Trimeresurus species within the close geographic origin and may contribute to the development of optimum heterologous antivenom.(AU)

Compositional and toxicological investigation of pooled venom from farm-raised Naja atra

Background: Naja atra is a venomous snake species medically relevant in China. In the current study, we evaluated the composition and toxicological profile of venom collected from farm-raised N. atra. Methods: Venom was collected from third-generation captive bred N. atra on a snake farm in Hunan Province, China. The venom was analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and nano-liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. In addition, hemolytic activity, median lethal dose, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters were accessed. Results: N. atra venom proteome was dominated by phospholipase A2 (46.5%) and three-finger toxins (41.4 %), and a set of common low relative abundance proteins, including cysteine-rich secretory proteins (4.7%), NGF-beta (2.4%), snake venom metalloproteinase (1.5%), glutathione peroxidase (0.6%), vespryn (0.3%), and 5ʹ-nucleotidases (0.2%) were also found. Furthermore, the venom exhibited direct hemolytic activity, neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, and high lethal potency in mice, with a subcutaneous median lethal dose of 1.02 mg/kg. Histopathological analysis and serum biochemical tests revealed that venom caused acute hepatic, pulmonary and renal injury in mice. Conclusion: This study revealed the composition and toxicity of venom collected from farm-raised N. atra, thereby providing a reference for the analysis of venom samples collected from captive-born venomous snakes in the future.(AU)

Mineral composition, omegas and lipid quality in the visceral fat residues of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum Cuvier, 1818) / Composição mineral, ômegas e qualidade lipídica em resíduos de gordura visceral de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum Cuvier, 1818)

This study aimed to determine the mineral composition, fatty acid profile, omegas and lipid quality indexes in the visceral fat residues of tambaqui (C. macropomum). Three pieces of visceral fat were collected from 20 fish weighing 1.10 ± 0.10 kg, which were homogenized and sent for compositional analysis. Minerals were determined by AOAC Official method 969.23 and 968.08. The fatty acids were grouped to calculate the ∑PUFAs/∑SFAs fatty acids ratio and the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids ∑PUFAs (n-6/n-3), atherogenicity indixes (AI) were calculated, thrombogenicity (TI), and ratio between hypocholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic fatty acids (HH). Mineral elements were found, 0.68 ± 0.015 mg/100g of total iron, 159.16 ± 14.32 mg/100g of Na+, 63.90 ± 5.11 mg/100g of K+, 10.28 ± 0. 62 mg/100g of Ca2+and 7.31 ± 0.58 mg/100g of Mg2+. As for fatty acids, 40.10% of SFAs, 38.10% of MUFAs and 21.80% of PUFAs. The calculations indicated significant values of omegas, 3, 6, 7 and n-7. There were ∑PUFAs/∑SFAs ratios of 1.84 and ∑PUFAs(n-6/n-3) of 6.22, with an AI of 0.50 and a TI of 0.93 and HH of 2.16. The 1.0 ± 0.10 kg tambaqui visceral fat residues can be evaluated as having high nutritional value, in addition to being a viable option for oil extraction and inclusion in animal feed.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi determinar a composição mineral, perfil de ácidos graxos, omegas e índices de qualidade lipíca de resíduos de gordura visceral de tambaqui (C. macropomum). Foram três amostras de gordura visceral coletadas de 20 peixes de 1,10 ± 0,10 kg, os quais foram homogeneizados e enviados para análise composicional. Os minerais foram deter-minados pelo método oficial AOAC 969,23 e 968,08. Os ácidos graxos foram agrupados para calcular a proporção de ácidos graxos ∑PUFAs/∑SFAs e a proporção de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados ∑PUFAs (n-6/n-3), índices de aterogenicidade (IA) foram calculados, trombogenicidade (IT) e proporção entre ácidos graxos hipocolesterolêmicos e hipercolesterolêmicos (HH). Foram encontrados os elementos minerais, 0,68 ± 0,015 mg/100g de ferro total, 159,16 ± 14,32 mg/100g de Na+, 63,90 ±5,11 mg/100g de K+, 10,28 ± 0,22 mg/100g de Ca2+ e 7,31 ± 0,58 mg/100g de Mg2+. Quanto aos ácidos graxos, 40,10% de AGS, 38,10% de AGM e 21,80% de AGP. Os cálculos indicaram valores significativos de ômegas, 3, 6, 7 e n-7. Em relação a ∑PUFAs/∑SFAs de 1,84 e ∑PUFAs (n-6/n-3) de 6,22, com um índice de IA de 0,50 e um IT de 0,93 e HH de 2,16. O 1,0 ±0,10 kg na gordura visceral de tambaqui pode ser avaliado como de alto valor nutricional, além de ser uma opção viável para extração do óleo e inclusão na ração animal.(AU)

Anuran assemblage changes along small-scale phytophysiognomies in natural Brazilian grasslands

ABSTRACT We studied the species composition of frogs in two phytophysiognomies within Pampa biome (grassland and forest) of a Ramsar site in southern Brazil to assess the distribution of species and dissimilarities in community composition on a small spatial scale. We tested the hypothesis that the vegetation structure and the types of land cover present in each physiognomy influence species distribution and the compositional dissimilarity patterns between locations. We sampled individuals using pitfall traps and active search in the areas around the traps. We evaluated the existence of these differences by using permutational multivariate analysis of variance and multivariate dispersion. We found that the compositional dissimilarity was higher between the sampling sites from different phytophysiognomies than within the same phytophysiognomy. Also, the difference in anuran species composition between the sampling sites within the forest was considerably high. These differences were mainly due to the type of land cover present in each sampled site. Based on our results, we could assume that the phytophysiognomies evaluated here offer quite different colonization opportunities for anurans, especially those related to microhabitat characteristics, such as microclimate variables. Still, the presence of different types of land cover seems to be a decisive factor for the maintenance of some anuran species, since these can serve as an important source for obtaining food resources, in addition to facilitating the dispersion of individuals within and between locals, serve as sites for the regulation of physiological functions and also refuges against predators.

Anuran assemblage changes along small-scale phytophysiognomies in natural Brazilian grasslands

We studied the species composition of frogs in two phytophysiognomies within Pampa biome (grassland and forest) of a Ramsar site in southern Brazil to assess the distribution of species and dissimilarities in community composition on a small spatial scale. We tested the hypothesis that the vegetation structure and the types of land cover present in each physiognomy influence species distribution and the compositional dissimilarity patterns between locations. We sampled individuals using pitfall traps and active search in the areas around the traps. We evaluated the existence of these differences by using permutational multivariate analysis of variance and multivariate dispersion. We found that the compositional dissimilarity was higher between the sampling sites from different phytophysiognomies than within the same phytophysiognomy. Also, the difference in anuran species composition between the sampling sites within the forest was considerably high. These differences were mainly due to the type of land cover present in each sampled site. Based on our results, we could assume that the phytophysiognomies evaluated here offer quite different colonization opportunities for anurans, especially those related to microhabitat characteristics, such as microclimate variables. Still, the presence of different types of land cover seems to be a decisive factor for the maintenance of some anuran species, since these can serve as an important source for obtaining food resources, in addition to facilitating the dispersion of individuals within and between locals, serve as sites for the regulation of physiological functions and also refuges against predators.

Anuran assemblage changes along small-scale phytophysiognomies in natural Brazilian grasslands

We studied the species composition of frogs in two phytophysiognomies within Pampa biome (grassland and forest) of a Ramsar site in southern Brazil to assess the distribution of species and dissimilarities in community composition on a small spatial scale. We tested the hypothesis that the vegetation structure and the types of land cover present in each physiognomy influence species distribution and the compositional dissimilarity patterns between locations. We sampled individuals using pitfall traps and active search in the areas around the traps. We evaluated the existence of these differences by using permutational multivariate analysis of variance and multivariate dispersion. We found that the compositional dissimilarity was higher between the sampling sites from different phytophysiognomies than within the same phytophysiognomy. Also, the difference in anuran species composition between the sampling sites within the forest was considerably high. These differences were mainly due to the type of land cover present in each sampled site. Based on our results, we could assume that the phytophysiognomies evaluated here offer quite different colonization opportunities for anurans, especially those related to microhabitat characteristics, such as microclimate variables. Still, the presence of different types of land cover seems to be a decisive factor for the maintenance of some anuran species, since these can serve as an important source for obtaining food resources, in addition to facilitating the dispersion of individuals within and between locals, serve as sites for the regulation of physiological functions and also refuges against predators.(AU)

Evaluation of antioxidants on oxidative stability and fatty acid profile of poultry offal oil used in the pet food industry / Avaliação de antioxidantes sobre a estabilidade oxidativa e perfil de ácidos graxos do óleo de vísceras de aves utilizado na indústria pet food

The aim of this study was to examine the use of antioxidants on the oxidative stability of poultry offal oil used in the pet food industry. Five commercial synthetic and two natural antioxidants were used in the following treatments: Control (CON); CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95); CON + (BHT + BHA); CON + (BHA + PG + CA); CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH70); CON + BHA; CON + (ASC + rosemary); and CON + (ASC + tocopherols). Inclusion levels were 0.5% for the synthetic and 0.625% for the natural antioxidants. Oxidative stability was determined at three temperatures (90, 110 and 130 ºC). To determine the fatty acid profile, the original sample of the offal oil was considered a negative control. The fatty acids were determined based on the preparation of methyl esters by a transesterification reaction with methanol in alkaline medium, followed by gas chromatography analysis. The different fatty acid types were identified by comparing the retention times of the fatty acid methyl ester standards with the retention times of the observed peaks. Compositional data analysis was carried out. Without the use of antioxidant, induction time is shorter, resulting in lower oxidative stability of the offal oil and consequent loss of its quality due to less time taken to oxidize. The antioxidants used in CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95), CON + (BHA + PG + CA) and CON + BHA better preserved the essential fatty acids (linolenic and linoleic). Natural antioxidants exhibited higher oxidation, with higher proportions of saturated fatty acids and the worst ω6:ω3 ratios. In conclusion, the synthetic antioxidants used in CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95), CON + (BHA + PG + CA) and CON + BHA provided greater protection against oxidation and better preserved the essential fatty acids. The natural antioxidants tested in the present study did not provide satisfactory protection.

Objetivou-se com essa pesquisa avaliar o uso de antioxidantes sobre a estabilidade oxidativa de óleo de vísceras de aves utilizado na indústria pet food. Foram utilizados cinco antioxidantes comerciais sintéticos e dois naturais: Controle (CON); CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95); CON + (BHT+BHA); CON + (BHA+PG+AC); CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO70); CON + BHA; CON + (ASC+ alecrim); CON + (ASC+ tocoferois)). A inclusão dos antioxidantes foi de 0,5% para os sintéticos e de 0,625% para os naturais. A determinação da estabilidade oxidativa foi feita em 3 temperaturas (90 ºC, 110 ºC e 130 ºC). Para a determinação do perfil de ácidos graxos, foi considerada a amostra original do óleo de vísceras como controle negativo. A determinação dos ácidos graxos foi baseada na preparação dos ésteres metílicos por reação de transesterificação com metanol em meio alcalino, seguida da análise por cromatografia gasosa. A identificação dos diferentes tipos de ácidos graxos foi obtida comparando os tempos de retenção dos padrões do éster metílico de ácidos graxos com os tempos de retenção dos picos observados. Foi realizada uma análise de dados composicionais. Foi possível observar que, sem utilização de um antioxidante, o tempo de indução é menor, repercutindo em uma menor estabilidade oxidativa do óleo de vísceras, com consequente perda de sua qualidade, devido a um menor tempo gasto para se oxidar. Os antioxidantes utilizados em CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95), CON + (BHA+PG+AC) e CON + BHA, preservaram mais os ácidos graxos essenciais (linolênico e linoleico). Os antioxidantes naturais tiveram maior oxidação, com maiores proporções de ácidos graxos saturados e as piores relações ω6: ω3. Conclui-se que os antioxidantes sintéticos utilizados em CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95), CON + (BHA+PG+AC) e CON + BHA proporcionaram maior proteção contra a oxidação e preservaram mais os ácidos graxos essenciais. Os antioxidantes naturais, no presente estudo, não apresentaram proteção satisfatória.

Evaluation of antioxidants on oxidative stability and fatty acid profile of poultry offal oil used in the pet food industry / Avaliação de antioxidantes sobre a estabilidade oxidativa e perfil de ácidos graxos do óleo de vísceras de aves utilizado na indústria pet food

The aim of this study was to examine the use of antioxidants on the oxidative stability of poultry offal oil used in the pet food industry. Five commercial synthetic and two natural antioxidants were used in the following treatments: Control (CON); CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95); CON + (BHT + BHA); CON + (BHA + PG + CA); CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH70); CON + BHA; CON + (ASC + rosemary); and CON + (ASC + tocopherols). Inclusion levels were 0.5% for the synthetic and 0.625% for the natural antioxidants. Oxidative stability was determined at three temperatures (90, 110 and 130 ºC). To determine the fatty acid profile, the original sample of the offal oil was considered a negative control. The fatty acids were determined based on the preparation of methyl esters by a transesterification reaction with methanol in alkaline medium, followed by gas chromatography analysis. The different fatty acid types were identified by comparing the retention times of the fatty acid methyl ester standards with the retention times of the observed peaks. Compositional data analysis was carried out. Without the use of antioxidant, induction time is shorter, resulting in lower oxidative stability of the offal oil and consequent loss of its quality due to less time taken to oxidize. The antioxidants used in CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95), CON + (BHA + PG + CA) and CON + BHA better preserved the essential fatty acids (linolenic and linoleic). Natural antioxidants exhibited higher oxidation, with higher proportions of saturated fatty acids and the worst ω6:ω3 ratios. In conclusion, the synthetic antioxidants used in CON + (BHT + BHA + ETH95), CON + (BHA + PG + CA) and CON + BHA provided greater protection against oxidation and better preserved the essential fatty acids. The natural antioxidants tested in the present study did not provide satisfactory protection.(AU)

Objetivou-se com essa pesquisa avaliar o uso de antioxidantes sobre a estabilidade oxidativa de óleo de vísceras de aves utilizado na indústria pet food. Foram utilizados cinco antioxidantes comerciais sintéticos e dois naturais: Controle (CON); CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95); CON + (BHT+BHA); CON + (BHA+PG+AC); CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO70); CON + BHA; CON + (ASC+ alecrim); CON + (ASC+ tocoferois)). A inclusão dos antioxidantes foi de 0,5% para os sintéticos e de 0,625% para os naturais. A determinação da estabilidade oxidativa foi feita em 3 temperaturas (90 ºC, 110 ºC e 130 ºC). Para a determinação do perfil de ácidos graxos, foi considerada a amostra original do óleo de vísceras como controle negativo. A determinação dos ácidos graxos foi baseada na preparação dos ésteres metílicos por reação de transesterificação com metanol em meio alcalino, seguida da análise por cromatografia gasosa. A identificação dos diferentes tipos de ácidos graxos foi obtida comparando os tempos de retenção dos padrões do éster metílico de ácidos graxos com os tempos de retenção dos picos observados. Foi realizada uma análise de dados composicionais. Foi possível observar que, sem utilização de um antioxidante, o tempo de indução é menor, repercutindo em uma menor estabilidade oxidativa do óleo de vísceras, com consequente perda de sua qualidade, devido a um menor tempo gasto para se oxidar. Os antioxidantes utilizados em CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95), CON + (BHA+PG+AC) e CON + BHA, preservaram mais os ácidos graxos essenciais (linolênico e linoleico). Os antioxidantes naturais tiveram maior oxidação, com maiores proporções de ácidos graxos saturados e as piores relações ω6: ω3. Conclui-se que os antioxidantes sintéticos utilizados em CON + (BHT+BHA+ETO95), CON + (BHA+PG+AC) e CON + BHA proporcionaram maior proteção contra a oxidação e preservaram mais os ácidos graxos essenciais. Os antioxidantes naturais, no presente estudo, não apresentaram proteção satisfatória.(AU)

Geographic variation of individual venom profile of Crotalus durissus snakes

South American rattlesnakes are represented in Brazil by a single species, Crotalus durissus, which has public health importance due to the severity of its envenomation and to its wide geographical distribution. The species is subdivided into several subspecies, but the current classification is controversial. In Brazil, the venoms of C. d. terrificus and C. d. collilineatus are used for hyperimmunization of horses for antivenom production, even though the distinction of these two subspecies are mostly by their geographical distribution. In this context, we described a comparative compositional and functional characterization of individual C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus venoms from three Brazilian states. Methods: We compared the compositional patterns of C. d. terrificus and C. d. collilineatus individual venoms by 1-DE and RP-HPLC. For functional analyzes, the enzymatic activities of PLA2, LAAO, and coagulant activity were evaluated. Finally, the immunorecognition of venom toxins by the crotalic antivenom produced at Butantan Institute was evaluated using Western blotting. Results: The protein profile of individual venoms from C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus showed a comparable overall composition, despite some intraspecific variation, especially regarding crotamine and LAAO. Interestingly, HPLC analysis showed a geographic pattern concerning PLA2. In addition, a remarkable intraspecific variation was also observed in PLA2, LAAO and coagulant activities. The immunorecognition pattern of individual venoms from C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus by crotalic antivenom produced at Butantan Institute was similar. Conclusions: The results highlighted the individual variability among the venoms of C. durissus ssp. specimens. Importantly, our data point to a geographical variation of C. durissus ssp. venom profile, regardless of the subspecies, as evidenced by PLA2 isoforms complexity, which may explain the increase in venom neurotoxicity from Northeastern through Southern Brazil reported for the species.(AU)

Geographic variation of individual venom profile of Crotalus durissus snakes

South American rattlesnakes are represented in Brazil by a single species, Crotalus durissus, which has public health importance due to the severity of its envenomation and to its wide geographical distribution. The species is subdivided into several subspecies, but the current classification is controversial. In Brazil, the venoms of C. d. terrificus and C. d. collilineatus are used for hyperimmunization of horses for antivenom production, even though the distinction of these two subspecies are mostly by their geographical distribution. In this context, we described a comparative compositional and functional characterization of individual C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus venoms from three Brazilian states. Methods: We compared the compositional patterns of C. d. terrificus and C. d. collilineatus individual venoms by 1-DE and RP-HPLC. For functional analyzes, the enzymatic activities of PLA2, LAAO, and coagulant activity were evaluated. Finally, the immunorecognition of venom toxins by the crotalic antivenom produced at Butantan Institute was evaluated using Western blotting. Results: The protein profile of individual venoms from C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus showed a comparable overall composition, despite some intraspecific variation, especially regarding crotamine and LAAO. Interestingly, HPLC analysis showed a geographic pattern concerning PLA2. In addition, a remarkable intraspecific variation was also observed in PLA2, LAAO and coagulant activities. The immunorecognition pattern of individual venoms from C. d. collilineatus and C. d. terrificus by crotalic antivenom produced at Butantan Institute was similar. Conclusions: The results highlighted the individual variability among the venoms of C. durissus ssp. specimens. Importantly, our data point to a geographical variation of C. durissus ssp. venom profile, regardless of the subspecies, as evidenced by PLA2 isoforms complexity, which may explain the increase in venom neurotoxicity from Northeastern through Southern Brazil reported for the species.(AU)

Structural and compositional shifts in Cerrado fragments in up to 11 years monitoring

The Cerrado has a wide diversity of fauna and flora, and the knowledge of its horizontal structure, in different time intervals allows the prediction of its structural and floristic characteristics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in structure and composition of tree community in three fragments of Cerrado with low anthropization, in an interval of 11 years at Minas Gerais state. Rectangular plots of fixed size were sampled, measuring stem diameter and height of all living arboreal individuals with diameter at 1.30 meters above ground (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. The tree vegetation dynamics study of the areas was performed, as well as the floristic analysis and the diametric structure. Considering all fragments and years of measurement, the recruitment of trees surpassed its mortality. The basal area varied between 3.67 and 13.07 m².ha-1. The studied areas, considering all fragments and years of measurement, showed a Shannon diversity index (H') from 3.43 to 3.87 nat.ind-1 and Pielou equitability index (J') ranged an interval between 0.77 and 0.82. The similarity calculated by the Jaccard index (J), when performed per plot considering the three fragments, showed a value of 0.2653. Also, related to the development and growth of the study areas, it can be inferred that all fragments and their respective years of measurement had a J-inverse pattern. In conclusion, it can be inferred that the three fragments maintained a representative growth in number of individuals and basal area.

Structural and compositional shifts in Cerrado fragments in up to 11 years monitoring

The Cerrado has a wide diversity of fauna and flora, and the knowledge of its horizontal structure, in different time intervals allows the prediction of its structural and floristic characteristics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in structure and composition of tree community in three fragments of Cerrado with low anthropization, in an interval of 11 years at Minas Gerais state. Rectangular plots of fixed size were sampled, measuring stem diameter and height of all living arboreal individuals with diameter at 1.30 meters above ground (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. The tree vegetation dynamics study of the areas was performed, as well as the floristic analysis and the diametric structure. Considering all fragments and years of measurement, the recruitment of trees surpassed its mortality. The basal area varied between 3.67 and 13.07 m².ha-1. The studied areas, considering all fragments and years of measurement, showed a Shannon diversity index (H') from 3.43 to 3.87 nat.ind-1 and Pielou equitability index (J') ranged an interval between 0.77 and 0.82. The similarity calculated by the Jaccard index (J), when performed per plot considering the three fragments, showed a value of 0.2653. Also, related to the development and growth of the study areas, it can be inferred that all fragments and their respective years of measurement had a J-inverse pattern. In conclusion, it can be inferred that the three fragments maintained a representative growth in number of individuals and basal area.(AU)

Rice and rice bran from different cultivars: physicochemical, spectroscopic, and thermal analysis characterization / Arroz e farelo de arroz de diferentes cultivares: caracterização físico-química, por espectroscopia e análise térmica

Different rice cultivars have been developed in order to obtain grains with optimal cultivation and compositional characteristics, which affect their potential applications. Therefore, the characterization of these different rice cultivars is required. In the present study, white rice and rice bran from the cultivars BRS AG, BRS Pampa, and BRS 358 provided by EMBRAPA were characterized by physicochemical means, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and thermal analyses. The moisture, lipid, and ash contents did not differ among the white rice cultivars. The cultivar BRS Pampa exhibited the highest protein and lowest total carbohydrate contents. Both BRS Pampa and BRS 358 showed a higher phytic acid content than BRS AG. The highest total carbohydrate content was observed in BRS AG white rice samples, which confirmed its suitability for use in ethanol production. Among the rice bran samples, BRS 358 demonstrated the highest contents of lipid, protein, and phytic acid, and the lowest total carbohydrate content. FTIR-ATR and thermal analyses were suitable for correlating the physicochemical properties of white rice and rice bran with the molecular composition in the respective cultivars studied. Both white rice and rice bran exhibited a thermal degradation temperature at 300 °C. Lipids, protein, ash and phytic acid were considerably higher in rice bran than white rice in all cultivars studied, which demonstrates the importance of the use of this by-product.

Várias cultivares de arroz tem sido desenvolvida no intuito de obter grãos com características de cultivo e composição apropriadas, que são responsáveis pela indicação de uso/consumo dos grãos. Assim, justifica-se a necessidade de caracterização das diferentes cultivares de arroz. No presente estudo, o arroz branco e o farelo de arroz das cultivares BRS AG, BRS Pampa, e BRS 358, cedidas pela EMBRAPA, foram caracterizadas a partir de análises físico-químicas, espectroscopia no infravermelho (FTIR-ATR) e análises térmicas. Nas amostras de arroz branco, o conteúdo de umidade, lipídios e cinzas não diferiu entre as cultivares. A BRS Pampa teve o maior teor de proteínas e o menor teor de carboidratos. A BRS Pampa e BRS 358 tiveram maior teor de ácido fítico. O maior conteúdo de carboidratos observado no arroz branco da cultivar BRS AG confirma sua indicação de uso na produção de bioetanol. Nas amostras de farelo de arroz, a BRS teve maior teor de lipídios, proteínas e ácido fítico, e o menor de carboidratos totais. A análise por FTIR-ATR e análise térmica permitiram correlacionar as propriedades físico-químicas do farelo de arroz e arroz branco com a composição química dentro de cada cultivar estudada. O arroz branco e o farelo de arroz exibiram degradação térmica a 300 °C. O conteúdo de lipídios, proteínas, cinzas e ácido fítico foram superiores no farelo em comparação ao arroz branco para todas as cultivares, o que demonstra a importância do uso desse subproduto.

Rice and rice bran from different cultivars: physicochemical, spectroscopic, and thermal analysis characterization / Arroz e farelo de arroz de diferentes cultivares: caracterização físico-química, por espectroscopia e análise térmica

Different rice cultivars have been developed in order to obtain grains with optimal cultivation and compositional characteristics, which affect their potential applications. Therefore, the characterization of these different rice cultivars is required. In the present study, white rice and rice bran from the cultivars BRS AG, BRS Pampa, and BRS 358 provided by EMBRAPA were characterized by physicochemical means, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and thermal analyses. The moisture, lipid, and ash contents did not differ among the white rice cultivars. The cultivar BRS Pampa exhibited the highest protein and lowest total carbohydrate contents. Both BRS Pampa and BRS 358 showed a higher phytic acid content than BRS AG. The highest total carbohydrate content was observed in BRS AG white rice samples, which confirmed its suitability for use in ethanol production. Among the rice bran samples, BRS 358 demonstrated the highest contents of lipid, protein, and phytic acid, and the lowest total carbohydrate content. FTIR-ATR and thermal analyses were suitable for correlating the physicochemical properties of white rice and rice bran with the molecular composition in the respective cultivars studied. Both white rice and rice bran exhibited a thermal degradation temperature at 300 °C. Lipids, protein, ash and phytic acid were considerably higher in rice bran than white rice in all cultivars studied, which demonstrates the importance of the use of this by-product.(AU)

Várias cultivares de arroz tem sido desenvolvida no intuito de obter grãos com características de cultivo e composição apropriadas, que são responsáveis pela indicação de uso/consumo dos grãos. Assim, justifica-se a necessidade de caracterização das diferentes cultivares de arroz. No presente estudo, o arroz branco e o farelo de arroz das cultivares BRS AG, BRS Pampa, e BRS 358, cedidas pela EMBRAPA, foram caracterizadas a partir de análises físico-químicas, espectroscopia no infravermelho (FTIR-ATR) e análises térmicas. Nas amostras de arroz branco, o conteúdo de umidade, lipídios e cinzas não diferiu entre as cultivares. A BRS Pampa teve o maior teor de proteínas e o menor teor de carboidratos. A BRS Pampa e BRS 358 tiveram maior teor de ácido fítico. O maior conteúdo de carboidratos observado no arroz branco da cultivar BRS AG confirma sua indicação de uso na produção de bioetanol. Nas amostras de farelo de arroz, a BRS teve maior teor de lipídios, proteínas e ácido fítico, e o menor de carboidratos totais. A análise por FTIR-ATR e análise térmica permitiram correlacionar as propriedades físico-químicas do farelo de arroz e arroz branco com a composição química dentro de cada cultivar estudada. O arroz branco e o farelo de arroz exibiram degradação térmica a 300 °C. O conteúdo de lipídios, proteínas, cinzas e ácido fítico foram superiores no farelo em comparação ao arroz branco para todas as cultivares, o que demonstra a importância do uso desse subproduto.(AU)

Strategies in snake venomics aiming at an integrative view of compositional, functional, and immunological characteristics of venoms

Abstract This work offers a general overview on the evolving strategies for the proteomic analysis of snake venoms, and discusses how these may be combined through diverse experimental approaches with the goal of achieving a more comprehensive knowledge on the compositional, toxic, and immunological characteristics of venoms. Some recent developments in this field are summarized, highlighting how strategies have evolved from the mere cataloguing of venom components (proteomics/venomics), to a broader exploration of their immunological (antivenomics) and functional (toxicovenomics) characteristics. Altogether, the combination of these complementary strategies is helping to build a wider, more integrative view of the life-threatening protein cocktails produced by venomous snakes, responsible for thousands of deaths every year.

Strategies in 'snake venomics' aiming at an integrative view of compositional, functional, and immunological characteristics of venoms

This work offers a general overview on the evolving strategies for the proteomic analysis of snake venoms, and discusses how these may be combined through diverse experimental approaches with the goal of achieving a more comprehensive knowledge on the compositional, toxic, and immunological characteristics of venoms. Some recent developments in this field are summarized, highlighting how strategies have evolved from the mere cataloguing of venom components (proteomics/venomics), to a broader exploration of their immunological (antivenomics) and functional (toxicovenomics) characteristics. Altogether, the combination of these complementary strategies is helping to build a wider, more integrative view of the life-threatening protein cocktails produced by venomous snakes, responsible for thousands of deaths every year.(AU)

Strategies in 'snake venomics' aiming at an integrative view of compositional, functional, and immunological characteristics of venoms

This work offers a general overview on the evolving strategies for the proteomic analysis of snake venoms, and discusses how these may be combined through diverse experimental approaches with the goal of achieving a more comprehensive knowledge on the compositional, toxic, and immunological characteristics of venoms. Some recent developments in this field are summarized, highlighting how strategies have evolved from the mere cataloguing of venom components (proteomics/venomics), to a broader exploration of their immunological (antivenomics) and functional (toxicovenomics) characteristics. Altogether, the combination of these complementary strategies is helping to build a wider, more integrative view of the life-threatening protein cocktails produced by venomous snakes, responsible for thousands of deaths every year.(AU)

Protein-species quantitative venomics: looking through a crystal ball

Abstract In this paper we discuss recent significant developments in the field of venom research, specifically the emergence of top-down proteomic applications that allow achieving compositional resolution at the level of the protein species present in the venom, and the absolute quantification of the venom proteins (the term protein species is used here to refer to all the different molecular forms in which a protein can be found. Please consult the special issue of Jornal of Proteomics Towards deciphering proteomes via the proteoform, protein speciation, moonlighting and protein code concepts published in 2016, vol. 134, pages 1-202). Challenges remain to be solved in order to achieve a compact and automated platform with which to routinely carry out comprehensive quantitative analysis of all toxins present in a venom. This short essay reflects the authors view of the immediate future in this direction for the proteomic analysis of venoms, particularly of snakes.