Can Vitamin C Supplementation Improve the Antioxidant Capacity of Rhamdia quelen Fish Exposed to Atrazine?

Atrazine (ATZ) is one of the pesticides mostly widely used in Brazil; several studies have shown the toxic effects of this herbicide on aquatic organisms such as fish. Thus, it is absolutely necessary finding alternatives to protect the health of fish, mainly of species commercially important for aquaculture, which may be exposed to atrazine deriving from agricultural runoff. The aim of the current study was to investigate interactions between dietary supplementation with vitamin C (Vit C) antioxidant and exposure to ATZ in Rhamdia quelen fish exposed to this herbicide. R. quelen specimens were divided into four groups: (1) CTRL, (2) VitC, (3) ATZ, (4) ATZ + VitC. Groups 3 and 4 were exposed to ATZ (10 µg L-1) for 96 h, after 30 days of VitC supplementation (1 g kg-1). Liver samples were collected for biomarker assays. Group 4 was the only group presenting decreased protein carbonyl content. Non-protein thiol (NPSH) levels were significantly higher in groups VitC, ATZ and ATZ + VitC than in CTRL. Group ATZ + VitC presented significant increase in glutatione-peroxidase (GPx) activity in comparison to the other investigated groups. Ascorbic acid (AA) levels were significantly higher in group VitC and lower in group ATZ. Therefore, interactions between herbicide ATZ and dietary supplementation with Vit C have shown biochemical changes in R. quelen fish. Thus, dietary supplements with adequate amounts of Vit C can be added as antioxidants to the diet of fish bred in aquaculture systems in order to protect them from exposure to ATZ.

Bovine Endometritis and the Inflammatory Peripheral Cholinergic System.

Endometritis is an inflammation of the endometrium associated with bacterial infection. The pathogenesis of endometritis in cows is still not completely understood. The combined analysis of the markers of inflammation and oxidative stress has contributed to a better understanding of disease mechanisms, but is still unexplored in uterine disorders. Moreover, research provides evidence about an important role of the vagus nerve in regulating the innate immune function through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway in response to bacterial infections. This new pathway has demonstrated a critical role in controlling the inflammatory system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of cholinesterase in total blood, lymphocytes, and serum of dairy cows with clinical and subclinical endometritis. Sixty-one Holstein cows, between 30 and 45 days in milk, were classified into 3 groups of animals: presenting clinical endometritis (n = 22), subclinical endometritis (n = 17), and healthy (n = 22). Mean leukocyte counts did not differ among groups, but the neutrophil number was significantly higher in cows with clinical endometritis than those in healthy animals. Also, serum concentration of interleukin-1beta (pg/mL) was significantly higher in cows with endometritis. The activity of acetylcholinesterase in blood and lymphocytes increased in both groups with endometritis. Animals with endometritis presented an increase in lipid peroxidation, but the antioxidant enzyme activity (catalase levels) was higher in endometritis groups than in normal cows. In conclusion, the inflammatory process of clinical and subclinical endometritis leads to systemic lipid peroxidation despite the compensatory increase of the antioxidant enzyme. These data also provide evidence of an important role of the cholinergic pathway in regulating dairy cows with clinical and subclinical endometritis.

Avaliação do Impacto dos Programas de Reorientação Profissional em Cursos da Área da Saúde / Evaluation of the Impact of Professional Reorientation Programs in Health Courses

RESUMO Problematizou-se a percepção dos atores dos cursos da área da saúde da Universidade Federal de Goiás quanto ao impacto do Programa Nacional de Reorientação da Formação Profissional em Saúde articulado ao Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho para a Saúde (Propet-Saúde) na reestruturação curricular. Realizou-se um estudo transversal com a participação de 300 atores de sete cursos, entre estudantes, tutores, preceptores, professores e coordenadores de graduação. Para isto, foi construído e validado um instrumento atitudinal do tipo Likert com duas dimensões: D1: reestruturação curricular e os princípios do Propet-Saúde e D2: projeto pedagógico do curso e o Propet-Saúde. A validação de conteúdo do instrumento considerou as equivalências semântica, cultural e conceitual, atribuição de pontos (de 1 a 4) e randomização das assertivas. A pontuação gerou três intervalos interpretativos: de 1 a 1,99 (insatisfação); 2 a 2,99 (relativa satisfação) e 3 a 4 (satisfação). Foi feito pré-teste e, após a inserção das contribuições, o instrumento foi aplicado. Após a aplicação, o instrumento foi validado estatisticamente quanto à dispersão e confiabilidade. Foi realizada análise fatorial considerando função e curso. A dispersão por meio da correlação linear evidenciou perda de quatro asserções (11,77%) denotando excelente validação de conteúdo; a confiabilidade foi de 0,93 (p < 0,01), evidenciando ótima densidade estatística. As médias gerais de D1 e D2 foram 3,09 e 3,11 respectivamente, indicando satisfação entre os respondentes. Conclui-se que os participantes reconhecem importantes avanços, como a reestruturação curricular a partir dos programas, inserção dos alunos já no início do curso em cenários de prática, estímulo à interdisciplinaridade, diversificação de práticas avaliativas e uso de metodologias ativas. Na análise fatorial, verificou-se que os cursos de Medicina e Biomedicina mostram-se mais refratários às contribuições dos programas Pró-Saúde e Pet-Saúde. Outros desafios foram apontados, como carga horária excessiva, que dificulta a integração entre cursos e o desenvolvimento da competência em administração/gestão ainda incipiente. A junção dos programas na forma Propet-Saúde deve ser fortalecida, pois evidenciou grande assertividade na organização curricular, bem como na integração ensino-serviço, aspecto central para o fortalecimento do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS).

ABSTRACT This study problematized the perception of stakeholders in the health care field at the Federal University of Goiás regarding the impact of the National Program for Professional Training and Reorientation in Health under the Program for Education for Work in Health (Propet-Saúde) on curricular restructuring. This cross-sectional study included 300 students, tutors, preceptors, teachers and graduation coordinators from seven courses. A Likert-type instrument was constructed and validated with the following dimensions: D1: curricular restructuring and the principles of Propet-Saúde and D2: the pedagogical project of the Propet-Saúde course. The instrument was validated considering semantic, cultural and conceptual equivalence, assignment of points (from 1 to 4), and randomization of the assertions tested. The score generated three interpretive intervals: from 1 to 1.99 (dissatisfaction); 2 to 2.99 (relative satisfaction) and 3 to 4 (satisfaction). The instrument was applied following a pre-test and the placement of the contributors. The instrument was then statistically validated for dispersion and reliability. Factorial analysis was performed considering function and course. Dispersion through linear correlation showed a loss of 4 assertions (11.77%), signifying excellent content validation. Reliability was 0.93 (p < 0.01), showing excellent statistical density. The general averages of D1 and D2 were 3.09 and 3.11 respectively, indicating satisfaction among the respondents. In conclusion, the participants recognize important advances such as curricular restructuring from these programs, placement of students already at the beginning of the course into practice scenarios, motivation toward interdisciplinarity, diversification of evaluation practices, and use of active methodologies. After factorial analysis, it was shown that medical and biomedical courses are more resistant to the contributions of the Pró-Saúde and PET-Saúde Programs and other hurdles were identified, such as excessive workload that hinders the integration of courses and the development of still-evolving administration and management skills. The interaction of the programs in Propet-Saúde should be strengthened, as it demonstrated significant assertiveness in curricular organization as well as in the teaching and service integration, a central aspect for the strengthening of Brazilian Public Health.

The 80-year history of the professional associations of nutritionists in Brazil: A historical-documentary analysis / As entidades de classe na história de 80 anos do nutricionista no Brasil: uma análise histórico-documental

ABSTRACT Objective To carry out a mapping of the historical trajectory of the professional associations of nutritionists (scientific associations, councils and professional labor unions) in Brazil. Methods The study consists of a historical-documentary analysis. To obtain the data, information and documents, the websites of the Federal Council of Nutritionists; Brazilian Association of Food and Nutrition; National Federation of Nutritionists and Nutritionists' Unions were browsed. A systematic bibliographic survey was carried out in the databases of the Scientific Electronic Library Online and National Library of Medicine to retrieve scientific articles about the associations of nutritionists in Brazil over the 80 years of their history, focusing on the last ten years. Results The historical analysis indicates that, over the course of eighty years, there has been strengthening of professional associations of nutritionists and achievements concerning training regulation, professional practice, fields of work and working conditions. The labor reform act of 2017 reduces the rights related to working conditions, creating setbacks in the achievements of nutritionists. Conclusion The professional associations of nutritionists have played an important role in the process of professionalization and legitimacy of training and performance of the profession in the country. There are indications of the unified performance of professional associations, but it is still incipient and scarce. Nowadays, unified, transparent and committed action of these professional associations is imperative for the professionalization and improvements of the working conditions of Brazilian nutritionists.

RESUMO Objetivo Realizar mapeamento da trajetória histórica das entidades de classe do nutricionista (associações científicas, conselhos e sindicatos profissionais) no Brasil. Métodos O estudo consiste em uma análise histórico-documental. Para obtenção dos dados, informações e documentos foram feitas visitas aos sítios eletrônicos do Conselho Federal de Nutricionistas; Associação Brasileira de Alimentação e Nutrição; Federação Nacional de Nutricionistas e Sindicatos de Nutricionistas. Realizou-se levantamento bibliográfico sistematizado nas bases Scientific Electronic Library Online e National Library of Medicine para capturar artigos científicos sobre a temática no Brasil ao longo dos 80 anos de sua história, com ênfase nos últimos dez anos. Resultados A análise histórica da Associação Brasileira de Alimentação e Nutrição, do Sistema Conselho Federal/Conselhos Regionais de Nutricionistas e da Federação Nacional de Nutricionistas/Sindicatos de Nutricionistas indica que, ao longo da trajetória de oitenta anos, houve fortalecimento das entidades de classe, com várias conquistas no arcabouço de regulamentação da formação, exercício profissional, campos de atuação e condições de trabalho. A reforma trabalhista, instituída em 2017, imprime redução de direitos relativos às condições de trabalho, acenando para retrocessos nas conquistas trabalhistas do nutricionista. Conclusão As entidades de classes do nutricionista têm desempenhado relevante papel no processo de valorização e legitimidade da formação e atuação da profissão no país. Há indícios da atuação unificada das entidades de classe, mas ainda incipientes e pontuais. Na atualidade, urge uma atuação unificada, transparente e comprometida destas entidades de classe em busca de valorização da profissão e melhorias das condições de trabalho do nutricionista brasileiro.

Biochemical Responses in Freshwater Fish Exposed to Insecticide Propoxur.

Although designed to control pests selectively, there is some evidence that environmental contamination by pesticides increases risks for humans and wildlife. In the present study, we evaluated biomarkers of oxidative stress in Astyanax jacuhiensis exposed to (5, 15 and 30 µg L-1) of carbamate Propoxur (PPX) for 96 h. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) in liver and gills showed reduced activity in all PPX concentrations tested. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities reduced in brain and muscle at concentrations 15 and 30 µg L-1 of PPX. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and hydrogen peroxide (HP) had no significant differences. In the brain, protein carbonyl (PC) increased in all groups treated with PPX. Although PPX is a selective pesticide, it causes oxidative damage and enzyme alteration in fish. This study pointed out some biomarkers that could be used to assess effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of pesticides, and infer about studies using fish as bioindicator.

Bioaccumulation and oxidative stress caused by pesticides in Cyprinus carpio reared in a rice-fish system.

Nowadays, many irrigated rice producers have adopted the rice-fish farming systems, in which fish are reared in the same environment as rice is grown. These animals can biologically control many pests that disturb the crop, as well as increase the income of producers when they are reared in the same area as rice. However, a large variety of pesticides is often used for pest control in conventional irrigated rice crops, and fish are exposed to different pesticide concentrations and active ingredients. Thus, the aim of the current study is to assess the potential risks of these pesticides to freshwater fish (Cyprinus carpio) cultured in integrated rice-fish farming systems. We assessed five pesticides widely used in rice culture. This is the first report on the bioaccumulation of the insecticides lambda-cyhalothrin + thiamethoxam and clorantraniliprole and of the fungicide tebuconazole + trifloxystrobin associated with oxidative stress and with enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters in edible fish samples reared in integrated in rice-fish farming systems. After 100 days of exposure, lambda-cyhalothrin and tebuconazole bioaccumulated in carp muscles. Acethylcholinesterase activity in the brain was lower in the experimental group than in the control group. Overall, the biochemical analyses showed increased responses in the experimental groups in comparison to the controls. Lipid peroxidation levels increased in the liver, gills and muscles. Protein oxidation increased in the liver and muscles. Catalase activity increased in the liver, and glutathione S-transferase increased in the liver, gills and muscles. Results demonstrate that these pesticides have severe adverse consequences in fish and indicate their potential risk to human health due to their bioaccumulation in farmed fish.

Understanding the curriculum the light of training guiding health in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze Pedagogical Projects Courses (PPCs) from the healthcare field in light of the National Curriculum Standards (NCS) policies on healthcare training. METHOD: Exploratory descriptive study of qualitative approach, in which were carried out analyzes of PPPs of Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine, Nutrition and Dentistry of a federal university in the Midwest region of Brazil. As technical analysis of documentary sources, adopted the content analysis in the thematic mode. RESULTS: The analysis of PPC showed the general aspects of PPC as the course features the historical percursso and construction, professional skills and competences required for professional performance and the guiding principles of formation characterized by technical, professional practice, articulation theory/ practice, interdisciplinarity and ethical / social training. CONCLUSIONS: PPC presented is consistent with the proposals set out in DCN and carry training policies in health in Brazil, providing adequate training for health professionals, the demands of the population and the National Health System. OBJECTIVO: Analisar os Projetos Pedagógicos de Cursos (PPC) da área da saúde à luz das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais (DCN) e das políticas indutoras de formação em saúde do Brasil. MÉTODO: Pesquisa descritiva exploratória de abordagem qualitativa, na qual foram realizadas análises dos PPC dos cursos de Enfermagem, Farmácia, Medicina, Nutrição e Odontologia de uma instituição federal de ensino superior da região Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Como técnica de análises das fontes documentais, adotou-se a análise de conteúdo, na modalidade temática. RESULTADOS: As análises dos PPC evidenciaram os aspectos gerais dos PPC como as características do curso, o percursso histórico e sua construção, habilidades e competências profissionais requeridas para o desempenho profissional e os princípios norteadores da formação caracterizados pela técnica, prática profissional, articulação teoria/prática, interdisciplinaridade e formação ética/social. CONCLUSÃO: Os PPC apresentaram-se condizentes com as propostas previstas nas DCN e com as políticas indutoras de formação em saúde do Brasil, proporcionando a formação adequada para os profissionais de saúde, as demandas da população e do Sistema Único de Saúde.

Understanding the curriculum the light of training guiding health in Brazil / Comprendiendo los currículos a la luz de los orientadores de la formación en salud en el Brasil / Compreendendo os currículos à luz dos norteadores da formação em saúde no Brasil

Objective To analyze Pedagogical Projects Courses (PPCs) from the healthcare field in light of the National Curriculum Standards (NCS) policies on healthcare training. Method Exploratory descriptive study of qualitative approach, in which were carried out analyzes of PPPs of Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine, Nutrition and Dentistry of a federal university in the Midwest region of Brazil. As technical analysis of documentary sources, adopted the content analysis in the thematic mode. Results The analysis of PPC showed the general aspects of PPC as the course features the historical percursso and construction, professional skills and competences required for professional performance and the guiding principles of formation characterized by technical, professional practice, articulation theory/ practice, interdisciplinarity and ethical / social training. Conclusions PPC presented is consistent with the proposals set out in DCN and carry training policies in health in Brazil, providing adequate training for health professionals, the demands of the population and the National Health System.

Objectivo Analizar Proyectos Pedagógicos de Curso (PPC) de la salud a la luz de las Directrices Curriculares Nacionales (DCN) y la inducción de la formación de las políticas de salud en Brasil. Método Estudio descriptivo exploratorio de abordaje cualitativo, en el cual se llevaron a cabo análisis de las PPC de Enfermería, Farmacia, Medicina, Nutrición y Odontología de la Universidad Federal de la región del Medio Oeste de Brasil. Como el análisis técnico de las fuentes documentales, adoptado el análisis de contenido en la modalidad temática. Resultados El análisis de PPC mostraron los aspectos generales de la PPC como el curso cuenta con el percursso histórico y la construcción, las habilidades y las competencias profesionales requeridas para el desempeño profesional y los principios rectores de la formación se caracteriza por técnica, práctica profesional, la teoría de la articulación / práctica, la interdisciplinariedad y la formación ética / social. Conclusión PPC presentada es consistente con las propuestas que figuran en el DCN y llevar a las políticas de formación en materia de salud en Brasil, proporcionando una formación adecuada para los profesionales de la salud, las demandas de la población y el Sistema Único de Salud.

Objectivo Analisar os Projetos Pedagógicos de Cursos (PPC) da área da saúde à luz das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais (DCN) e das políticas indutoras de formação em saúde do Brasil. Método Pesquisa descritiva exploratória de abordagem qualitativa, na qual foram realizadas análises dos PPC dos cursos de Enfermagem, Farmácia, Medicina, Nutrição e Odontologia de uma instituição federal de ensino superior da região Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Como técnica de análises das fontes documentais, adotou-se a análise de conteúdo, na modalidade temática. Resultados As análises dos PPC evidenciaram os aspectos gerais dos PPC como as características do curso, o percursso histórico e sua construção, habilidades e competências profissionais requeridas para o desempenho profissional e os princípios norteadores da formação caracterizados pela técnica, prática profissional, articulação teoria/prática, interdisciplinaridade e formação ética/social. Conclusão Os PPC apresentaram-se condizentes com as propostas previstas nas DCN e com as políticas indutoras de formação em saúde do Brasil, proporcionando a formação adequada para os profissionais de saúde, as demandas da população e do Sistema Único de Saúde.

Glyphosate-based herbicide affects biochemical parameters in Rhamdia quelen (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824 and) Leporinus obtusidens (Valenciennes, 1837)

Rhamdia quelen (silver catfish) and Leporinus obtusidens (piava) were exposed to a commercial formulation Roundup(r), a glyphosate-based herbicide at concentrations of 0.2 or 0.4 mg/L for 96 h. The effects of the herbicide were analyzed on the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities and glucose in plasma, glucose and protein in the mucus layer, nucleotide hydrolysis in the brain, and protein carbonyl in the liver. The parameters were chosen, owing to a lack of information concerning integrated analysis, considering oxidative damage parameters, liver damage, and effects on the mucus layer composition and triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) activities. Plasmatic glucose levels were reduced in both species, whereas the transaminase activities (ALT and AST) increased after exposure to the herbicide. Herbicide exposure increased protein and glucose levels in the mucus layer in both species. There was a reduction in both NTPDase and ecto-5'-nucleotidase activity in the brain of piava, and increased enzyme activity in silver catfish at both concentrations tested. The species showed an increase in protein carbonyl in the liver after exposure to both concentrations of the glyphosate. Our results demonstrated that exposure to Roundup(r) caused liver damage, as evidenced by increased plasma transaminases and liver protein carbonyl in both of the fish species studied. The mucus composition changed and hypoglycemia was detected after Roundup(r) exposure in both species. Brain nucleotide hydrolysis showed a different response for each fish species studied. These parameters indicated some important and potential indicators of glyphosate contamination in aquatic ecosystems.

Rhamdia quelen (jundiá) e Leporinus obtusidens (piava) foram expostos a formulação comercial Roundup(r), um herbicida a base de glifosato nas concentrações de 0,2 e 0,4 mg/L por 96h. Os efeitos do herbicida foram analisados na atividade da alanina aminotransferase (ALT), aspartato aminotransferase (AST) e glicose no plasma, glicose e proteína na camada de muco, hidrólise de nucleotídeos no cérebro e a proteína carbonil no fígado. Os parâmetros foram escolhidos devido à falta de informação com relação a análises integradas, considerando parâmetros oxidativo, danos no fígado, efeitos na composição da camada do muco e atividade da trifosfato difosfoidrolase (NTPDase). Níveis de glicose plasmática foram reduzidos em ambas às espécies, enquanto a atividade das transaminases (ALT e AST) aumentou após exposição ao herbicida. A exposição ao herbicida aumentou a proteína e níveis de glicose na camada de muco em ambas as espécies. Houve uma redução em ambas atividades de NTPDase e ecto-5'-nucleotidase no cérebro de piava, e um aumentou a atividade destas enzimas em jundiás em ambas as concentrações testadas. As espécies mostraram um aumento na proteína carbonil no fígado após exposição a ambas as concentrações de glifosato. Nossos resultados demonstraram que a exposição ao Roundup(r) causou danos no fígado, como evidenciado pelo aumento das transaminases plasmáticas e proteína carbonil no fígado em ambas as espécies de peixes estudadas. A composição do muco alterou e uma hipoglicemia foi detectada após a exposição ao Roundup(r) em ambas espécies. A hidrólise de nucleotídeos em cérebro mostrou diferente resposta para cada espécie estudada. Esses parâmetros indicam alguns importantes e indicadores potenciais da contaminação do glifosato no ecossistema aquático.

Commercial formulation containing 2,4-D affects biochemical parameters and morphological indices of silver catfish exposed for 90 days.

The objective of this study was to verify whether a commercial formulation of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [2,4-D dimethylamine salt (DMA)] affects the growth and biochemical parameters of silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) after 90 days of exposure. The fish exposed to 0.5 or 2.0 mg/L of DMA presented exhibited decreased growth parameters. Glucose was reduced in the mucus layer at both concentrations, and the total protein level was increased at the highest concentration tested. Fish exposed to DMA showed reduced liver and kidney glycogen at both concentrations tested, while in the muscle, glycogen was reduced only at 2.0 mg/L. Glucose was increased in the liver and decreased in the muscle and kidney at both concentrations and was not altered in the plasma. Lactate was increased in all the tissues and decreased in the plasma. Protein levels were reduced in the liver and plasma at both concentrations, while in the muscle, it was decreased at a concentration of 2.0 mg/L. Levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances were reduced in the liver and increased in the muscle at both concentrations and did not change in the brain. DMA increased catalase activity in the liver at both concentrations tested. The present study demonstrates the effects of long-term exposure to DMA. Some parameters could be used as toxicity indicators to identify the presence of DMA in an aquatic environment.

Alterations in carbohydrate and protein metabolism in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) exposed to cadmium.

Changes in carbohydrate and protein metabolism were studied in silver catfish Rhamdia quelen exposed to cadmium (0; 0.236 or 0.414 mg/L) during 7 and 14 days. After exposure time the fish were exposed to recovery period (water without cadmium), during 7 and 14 days. Different alterations in the metabolic parameters were observed such as an increase in lactate, protein, amino acid and ammonia levels as well as a reduction in glucose values after the exposure periods in liver. In muscle, glycogen and glucose values enhanced after cadmium exposure at both concentrations for 7 days; however, at 0.414 mg/L cadmium, protein levels decreased while amino acids and ammonia levels enhanced. An increase in the lactate values was found in plasma after 7 days of exposure and a reduction in the lactate, glucose and protein levels occurred after 14 days of exposure. Results indicated that the metabolic alterations after cadmium exposure were dependent on the tissue type and exposure time. Cadmium exposure for 14 days and recovery period also of 14 days seem to be less harmful to the liver and muscle. However, even after recovering from some changes, fish health may be affected making them more sensitive to some environmental changes.

Tissue biochemical alterations of Cyprinus carpio exposed to commercial herbicide containing clomazone under rice-field conditions.

Field and laboratory experiments were performed to evaluate toxicological responses of Cyprinus carpio exposed to the commercial herbicide clomazone (500 mg l(-1)). Fish were exposed to 0.5 mg l(-1) of the formulated herbicide for 7, 30, and 90 days. Fish were exposed to clomazone in field conditions (7, 30, or 90 days trapped in submersed cages together with rice crops) and in laboratory conditions where the fish were placed in 45-l tanks with tap water only for 7 days. Fish exposed for 7, 30, or 90 days showed no alterations in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity under field conditions. Under laboratory conditions, decreased muscle AChE activity was observed only after 7 days of exposure. During the same evaluation period (7 days), oxidative stress parameters changed under both field and laboratory conditions; however, metabolic parameters were altered only under field conditions. Disorders in oxidative stress parameters and metabolism were evident in different tissues up to day 90 after treatment. These overall results show that AChE activity changed only under laboratory conditions. Oxidative stress, along with metabolic parameters, may be good indicators of herbicide contamination in C. carpio under rice-field conditions.

Effects of the commercial formulation containing fipronil on the non-target organism Cyprinus carpio: implications for rice-fish cultivation.

The aim of this research was to evaluate possible toxic effects of commercial formulation containing fipronil on Cyprinus carpio tissues under rice field conditions. Antioxidant profile (SOD, catalase, glutathione S-transferase), oxidative stress parameters (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, protein carbonyl), and growth were investigated in carp exposed to fipronil under rice field conditions for 7, 30, and 90 days. Waterborne insecticide concentrations were measured and the detectable concentration of fipronil was observed up to 45 day after application. Common carp survival and growth was not affected by fipronil. Liver superoxide dismutase activity was enhanced while liver catalase activity was inhibited at 7, 30, and 90 days. Alterations were not observed in the glutathione S-transferase activity in any experimental periods. Protein carbonyl increased only after 30 and 90 days of exposure. The thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances levels were enhanced in all analyzed tissues (liver, muscle, and brain) and periods of exposure. This study demonstrates that fipronil insecticides cause alterations in the biochemical parameters in different tissues of carp without affecting the growth or the survival of the fish.

Acute exposure to glyphosate herbicide affects oxidative parameters in piava (Leporinus obtusidens).

In recent years, commercial glyphosate herbicide formulations have been widely used in agriculture to control aquatic weeds. These pesticides may result in disruption of ecological balance, causing damage to nontarget organisms including fish. Teleostean fish (Leporinus obtusidens) were exposed to commercial glyphosate herbicide formulation at 0 (control), 3, 6, 10 or 20 mg L(-1) for 96 h. The effects of herbicide on plasmatic metabolic parameters, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), catalase activity, protein carbonyl, and mucus layer parameters were studied. Plasmatic glucose and lactate levels increased but protein levels showed reduction after herbicide exposure. TBARS levels in brain showed a reduction at all tested concentrations. However, liver demonstrated increased TBARS levels at all tested concentrations, whereas in white muscle TBARS production did not change after exposure to herbicide. Fish exposed to all concentrations of glyphosate showed increase in liver catalase activity and protein carbonyl. Herbicide exposure increased protein and carbohydrate levels of the mucus layer at all tested concentrations. The present results showed that, in 96 h, glyphosate changed toxicological parameters analyzed in piava. Parameters measured in this study may be useful in environmental biomonitoring.

Survival, growth and metabolic parameters of silver catfish, Rhamdia quelen, juveniles exposed to different waterborne nitrite levels

Altos níveis de nitrito (NO2-) podem ocorrer em sistemas de cultivo com alta densidade de estocagem, mas análises sobre os valores de concentração letal e o efeito do NO2 - em parâmetros metabólicos e no crescimento são escassos. Neste estudo foi analisada a concentração letal em 96 h (CL50-96h) para nitrito (NO2 -) em juvenis de jundiá, Rhamdia quelen, e o efeito de quatro níveis de nitrito (0,06; 0,46; 1,19 e 1,52 mg.L-1) no crescimento e no lactato, glicose, glicogênio e proteína hepática e muscular. A CL50-96h para NO2 - foi 20,46 (intervalo de confiança: 16,10-23,68) mg.L-1. No experimento de crescimento, a exposição ao NO2 não afetou o peso, comprimento ou taxa de crescimento específico, mas devido à mortalidade (66,7% e 100% após 20 e 40 dias, respectivamente), a biomassa dos juvenis expostos a 1,52 mg.L-1. NO2 - foi significativamente mais baixa que a biomassa dos juvenis expostos aos outros tratamentos. Deste modo, o nível seguro de NO2 - para o crescimento do jundiá é abaixo de 1,19 mg.L-1 (2% da CL50-96h). A exposição do jundiá ao NO2 - por 40 dias diminuiu os níveis de lactato no músculo, mas esses níveis aumentaram nos exemplares mantidos em 1,19 mg.L-1 NO2 -. Além disso, os níveis de glicose no músculo e fígado foram significativamente mais baixos nos jundiás expostos à concentração mais elevada de NO2 . Estes resultados indicam que a exposição crônica ao NO2 provoca uma oxidação anaeróbica do substrato para obtenção de energia.

High nitrite (NO2 -) levels may develop in aquaculture systems due to high fish density, but studies of lethal concentration values and the effect of NO2 - on metabolic parameters and growth are scarce. Consequently, in this study was verified the lethal concentration at 96 h (LC50-96h) for (NO2 -) in juvenile silver catfish, Rhamdia quelen and the effect of four waterborne NO2 - concentrations (0.06, 0.46, 1.19, and 1.52 mg.L-1) on growth, and hepatic and muscular lactate, glucose, glycogen and protein. Nitrite LC50-96h was 20.46 (confidence interval: 16.10-23.68) mg.L-1. In the growth experiment, exposure to NO2 - did not affect weight, length or specific growth rate, but due to mortality (66.7% and 100% after 20 and 40 days, respectively), biomass of juveniles exposed to 1.52 mg.L-1 NO2 - was significantly lower than the biomass of juveniles exposed to other treatments. Therefore, the safe level of nitrite for growth of silver catfish juveniles is below 1.19 mg.L-1 (2% of LC50-96h). Exposure of silver catfish to NO2 - for 40 days reduced lactate levels in muscle, but lactate levels increased in liver tissue of fish maintained at 1.19 mg.L-1 NO2 -. In addition, glucose levels in muscle and liver tissues were significantly lower in silver catfish exposed to the highest NO2 - level. These results indicate that chronic NO2 - exposure causes anaerobic substrate oxidation to meet energy demand.

Toxicological responses of Cyprinus carpio exposed to the herbicide penoxsulam in rice field conditions.

Cyprinus carpio fish were exposed to penoxsulam (Ricer) in field conditions. The experiment in the rice field was carried out for 7, 21 and 72 days. Oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant profile were studied. The acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity in the brain was increased after 7 days and reduced after 21 and 72 days of the experiment in the rice field. The AChE activity in muscle was reduced only after 72 days of exposure. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive species were increased in the liver, brain and muscle at 7 days of the trial, reduced at 21 days in the brain and unaltered after 72 days of exposure in muscle. However, an increase in this parameter in the brain and liver was observed. Liver glutathione S-transferase was reduced at 7 days, unchanged at 21 days and increased after 72 days of exposure. Catalase of the liver changed only in the second experimental period, when it was reduced. Liver protein carbonyl was reduced at 7 days and increased at 21 and 72 days of exposure. This study shows long-term effects of rice herbicide at environmentally relevant concentrations on toxicological parameters in different tissues (brain, muscle and liver) of Cyprinus carpio.

Commercial formulation containing quinclorac and metsulfuron-methyl herbicides inhibit acetylcholinesterase and induce biochemical alterations in tissues of Leporinus obtusidens.

The effects of commercial formulation containing quinclorac and metsulfuron-methyl herbicides on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), antioxidant profile and metabolic parameters in teleost fish (Leporinus obtusidens) were studied. The fish were exposed during 90 days to commercial formulation containing quinclorac (204 µg L(-1)) and metsulfuron-methyl (5.8 µg L(-1)) herbicides in rice field irrigated condition. AChE activity in the brain and muscle decreased after exposure to both commercial formulations. The same response was observed for the TBARS levels in brain, liver and muscle. Liver catalase activity reduced after exposure to commercial formulation containing quinclorac and metsulfuron-methyl herbicides. Metabolic parameters in the liver and white muscle (glycogen, lactate, protein and glucose) were determined. These parameters showed different changes after exposure to both commercial formulations. This study pointed out long-term effects of exposure to commercial formulations containing herbicides used in rice on metabolic and enzymatic parameters in tissues of L. obtusidens.

Effects of water cadmium concentrations on bioaccumulation and various oxidative stress parameters in Rhamdia quelen.

The effects of sublethal cadmium concentrations on oxidative stress parameters were evaluated in Rhamdia quelen. The fish were exposed to 0.44, 236, and 414 µg l⁻¹ cadmium for 7 and 14 days, followed by the same time periods for recovery. Enzymes, such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione S-transferase (GST), and indicators of oxidative stress, such as thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) and protein carbonyl, were verified in fish tissues. In addition, the accumulation of cadmium was evaluated in these tissues. Our results indicate that CAT and GST levels decreased in gills after exposure periods associated with increased TBARS levels. In hepatic tissue, CAT, GST, TBARS, and protein carbonyl levels increased after 7 days of exposure, whereas SOD activity decreased after exposure for 14 days. In the kidney, TBARS levels decreased after exposure for 7 days and increased after exposure for 14 days. During the recovery periods, some variations persisted in gills, liver, and kidney. Cadmium accumulation was most significant in liver, followed by kidney and gills. These results indicate that cadmium concentrations studied invoke a stress response in silver catfish.

Toxicological responses of Cyprinus carpio after exposure to a commercial herbicide containing imazethapyr and imazapic.

Cyprinus carpio was exposed to imazethapyr and imazapic at laboratory and at field conditions. The laboratory experiment was carried out for 7 days and at rice field for 7, 30 and 90 days. Oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant profile were studied as well as metabolic parameters. After 7 days, brain AChE activity increases in laboratory and field, but in muscle, reduction was observed only in laboratory. At the same period, brain and muscle TBARS and liver CAT increase in the laboratory. Metabolic parameters showed changes in both conditions and exposure periods. After 30 days in rice field, brain AChE activity decreases and in muscle it was enhanced. After 90 days in field, only muscle AChE activity was reduced. The disorders in oxidative stress parameters and metabolism remained, indicating mainly a protein catabolism. This study pointed out short- and long-term effects of rice herbicides at environmentally relevant concentrations on toxicological parameters in tissues of C. carpio.