Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient / Alterações morfofisiológicas em mudas de Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) sob gradiente de sombreamento

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles' stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Pharmacological PI3K inhibition in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Considering the role of PI3K and its downstream effectors in cell proliferation, invasion, and survival, it is reasonable to expect that treatment with PI3K inhibitors could control HNSCC onset and progression. Thus, the research question for our review was whether pharmacological inhibition of PI3K affects HNSCC progression. METHODS: In vitro and in vivo studies were selected from six databases. We collected data regarding cell viability, apoptosis, and the regulation of protein expression levels from in vitro studies. For the in vivo studies, we analyzed the reduction in tumor size or gene and protein expression. RESULTS: The included studies showed reduced cell proliferation and apoptosis after treatment with PI3K inhibitors. PI3K inhibitors in combination with other drugs had an enhanced anticancer effects compared to those of single-drug treatments. CONCLUSIONS: The results support the potential of PI3K inhibitors as candidates for clinical trials in HNSCC.

A novel eudesmol derivative from the leaf essential oil of Guatteria friesiana (Annonaceae) and evaluation of the antinociceptive activity.

In the present study, it was evaluated the chemical composition and the antinociceptive activity of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Guatteria friesiana. Seven compounds corresponding to 96.2% of the crude essential oil were identified. The main components identified were the mixture of ß-eudesmol and α-eudesmol (58.1%), and γ-eudesmol (16.8%). A new α-eudesmol derivative, named 5-hydroxy-α-eudesmol, was isolated together with the known compounds ß-eudesmol and a mixture of α-eudesmol, ß-eudesmol and γ-eudesmol of the essential oil. The chemical structures were determined by 1D and 2D NMR, and MS experiments. Essential oil has significant antinociceptive properties, which are related probably with the involvement of the opioid receptors and K+-ATP channels.

Mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica: relato de caso em paciente pediátrico / Schistosomal Myeloradiculopathy: case report in a pediatric patient

A esquistossomose é uma endemia parasitária típica das Américas, Ásia e África. A Mielorradiculopatia Esquistossomótica surge como uma evolução severa da infecção por esquistossomose e, apesar de muito comum, sua prevalência em áreas endêmicas vem sendo subestimada. Objetivo: relatar caso de Mielorradiculopatia Esquistossomótica ocorrido em paciente pediátrico. Metodologia: estudo descritivo do tipo Relato de Caso retrospectivo, submetido e aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa do Centro Universitário CESMAC, CAAE: 28835220.0.0000.0039, N.º do Parecer: 3.898.292. Relato de caso: paciente do sexo masculino, previamente hígido, 11 anos, iniciou quadro com história álgica aguda em membros inferiores que piorava no período da noite acompanhada de relato de febre. Quadro clínico evoluiu com lombalgia, disúria, oligúria, posterior anúria e formação de globo vesical. Evoluiu, também, com paresia de membros inferiores. A investigação realizou-se com Exame Parasitológico de Fezes positivo para esquistossomose, além de Ressonância Magnética de coluna lombo-sacra que corroboraram com a hipótese diagnóstica. Instituiu-se tratamento com Albendazol, Praziquantel e pulsoterapia com Metilprednisolona durante internação. Paciente teve alta hospitalar com melhora de quadro neurológico, em uso de prednisona 40 mg/dia. Conclusão: a MRE constitui a forma mais grave dentre as manifestações ectópicas da esquistossomose. A dificuldade do reconhecimento do quadro clínico e a limitação no acesso aos métodos complementares diagnósticos contribuem para o subdiagnóstico da enfermidade, acarretando sequelas graves para os portadores da doença e ocultando sua importância epidemiológica principalmente em pacientes pediátricos e jovens. (AU)

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic endemic typical of the Americas, Asia and Africa. Schistosomal Myeloradiculopathy is a severe evolution of schistosomiasis infection and, although very common, the prevalence in endemic areas has been underestimated. Objective: to report Schistosomal Myeloradiculopathy case in a pediatric patient. Methodology: descriptive study of the type Case Report retrospective, submitted and approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the CESMAC University Center, CAAE: 28835220.0.0000.0039, Opinion N.º: 3.898.292. Case report: a previously healthy 11-year-old boy, started with a history of acute pain in lower limbs that worsened during the night accompanied of fever. Evolved with low back pain, dysuria, oliguria, subsequent anuria, vesical globe formation and lower limbs paresis. The investigation resulted in positive stool examination for schistosomiasis and magnetic resonance imaging of lumbosacral spine that corroborated the diagnostic hypothesis. The treatment included Albendazol, Praziquantel and pulsetherapy with Methylprednisolone during hospitalization. The patient was discharged from the hospital with improved neurological status, using prednisone 40 mg/day. Conclusion: Schistosomal Myeloradiculopathy is the most severe form of the ectopic manifestations of schistosomiasis. The difficulty in recognizing the clinical condition and the limitation of access to complementary diagnostic methods contributes to the underdiagnosis of the disease, causing severe sequels for patients with disease and hiding its epidemiological importance, especially in pediatric and young patients. (AU)

Parasitos em trutas-arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss) criadas em sistema intensivo na região serrana de Santa Catarina, Brasil / [Parasites in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) raised in an intensive system in the mountain region of Santa Catarina, Brazil]

With the aim to determine the prevalence and mean parasite intensity in Oncorhynchus mykiss, 120 specimens were analyzed between April and September 2018. The cavity analysis was done by visual inspection, scraping of mucus, and extraction of the branchial arches. In the evisceration process, the intestine, the liver, and the kidney were separated, while the musculature was analyzed using the "candling table" method. All the collected material was preserved in 10% buffered formaldehyde and sent to the Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, of the Center for Agroveterinary Sciences (CAV) of the University of the State of Santa Catarina (UDESC) for making the slides and identifying the parasites. Parasites were detected only in the analysis of the scraping of body mucus. Only specimens of the genus Trichodina were identified, in 34 of the 120 fish analyzed, in two collections, resulting in a prevalence of 28.33%. In total, 144 specimens of Trichodina were observed. The overall mean intensity was of 4.24 parasites in each fish analyzed. Characteristic lesions of infection by protozoa were not identified. This is the first report of the occurrence of Trichodina spp. in O. mykiss bred in an intensive system in Brazil, with low rates of parasitic infection in the mountain region of Santa Catarina.(AU)

Flavonoid glycosides and their putative human metabolites as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp).

BACKGROUND: Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to be a pandemic infection, important severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) non-structural proteins (nsp) have been analysed as promising targets in virtual screening approaches. Among these proteins, 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CLpro), also named main protease, and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), have been identified as fundamental targets due to its importance in the viral replication stages. OBJECTIVES: To investigate, in silico, two of the most abundant flavonoid glycosides from Dysphania ambrosioides; a medicinal plant found in many regions of the world, along with some of the putative derivatives of these flavonoid glycosides in the human organism as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp. METHODS: Using a molecular docking approach, the interactions and the binding affinity with SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp were predicted for quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (nicotiflorin) and some of their glucuronide and sulfate derivatives. FINDINGS: Docking analysis, based on the crystal structure of 3CLpro and RdRp, indicated rutin, nicotiflorin, and their glucuronide and sulfate derivatives as potential inhibitors for both proteins. Also, the importance of the hydrogen bond and π-based interactions was evidenced for the presumed active sites. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these results suggest that both flavonoid glycosides and their putative human metabolites can play a key role as inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp. Obviously, further researches, mainly in vitro and in vivo experiments, are necessary to certify the docking results reported here, as well as the adequate application of these substances. Furthermore, it is necessary to investigate the risks of D. ambrosioides as a phytomedicine for use against COVID-19.

Evaluation of antitumor potential of cashew gum extracted from Anacardium occidentale Linn.

This study aims to determine the antitumor potential of cashew gum in vitro and in vivo. The cashew gum (CG) structure is similar to already showed in literature. The cytotoxicity effect of CG was performed by MTT assay, and B16-F10 melanoma model was used to evaluate antitumor effect. The tumor inhibition was calculated based on tumor weight. Hematological, histopathological, FTIR, oxidative stress and Western Blot analysis were performed to elucidate the mechanism of inhibition and toxic effects. As results, CG did not demonstrate cytotoxicity in vitro, however showed a significant tumor inhibition in vivo, with about 36.9 to 43% of reduction in tumor mass, with no toxicity to organs. Animals treated with CG did not show toxicity in normal tissues, FTIR spectrum and oxidative stress analysis of the tumor tissue indicated that CG cause tumor inhibition with the presence of apoptosis morphotype cells, without alterations in the levels of antioxidants components. In addition, it was observed that CG reduced the expression of γH2AX without changing the expression of caspase-3. With this, we can suggest that this polymer can assist in the anticancer activity and/or decrease the side effects of standard drugs used in treatment of cancer.

Flavonoid glycosides and their putative human metabolites as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp)

BACKGROUND Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to be a pandemic infection, important severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) non-structural proteins (nsp) have been analysed as promising targets in virtual screening approaches. Among these proteins, 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CLpro), also named main protease, and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), have been identified as fundamental targets due to its importance in the viral replication stages. OBJECTIVES To investigate, in silico, two of the most abundant flavonoid glycosides from Dysphania ambrosioides; a medicinal plant found in many regions of the world, along with some of the putative derivatives of these flavonoid glycosides in the human organism as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp. METHODS Using a molecular docking approach, the interactions and the binding affinity with SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp were predicted for quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (nicotiflorin) and some of their glucuronide and sulfate derivatives. FINDINGS Docking analysis, based on the crystal structure of 3CLpro and RdRp, indicated rutin, nicotiflorin, and their glucuronide and sulfate derivatives as potential inhibitors for both proteins. Also, the importance of the hydrogen bond and π-based interactions was evidenced for the presumed active sites. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results suggest that both flavonoid glycosides and their putative human metabolites can play a key role as inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RdRp. Obviously, further researches, mainly in vitro and in vivo experiments, are necessary to certify the docking results reported here, as well as the adequate application of these substances. Furthermore, it is necessary to investigate the risks of D. ambrosioides as a phytomedicine for use against COVID-19.

Características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou imunológica / Carcass characteristics and meat of Aberdeen Angus steers submitted to surgical or immunological castration

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus castrados cirurgicamente em duas idades ou imunocastrados com dois protocolos. Foram utilizados 48 bezerros, monitorados a partir do nascimento e desmamados, com idade e peso médio inicial de seis meses e de 160±16,54kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos: castração cirúrgica ao nascer; castração cirúrgica ao desmame; imunocastração com três doses da vacina Bopriva® e imunocastração com quatro doses da vacina Bopriva®. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso. Novilhos imunocastrados com três doses apresentaram maior quebra ao resfriamento e menor espessura de gordura ajustada para 100kg de carcaça fria que castrados cirurgicamente ao nascer (P<0,05). A imunocastração com três doses proporcionou incremento na participação de músculo, em relação às castrações cirúrgicas, mas reduziu a gordura em relação à castração cirúrgica ao nascimento (P<0,05). A relação músculo:osso foi superior nos imunocastrados com três doses em relação a castrados cirurgicamente no desmame (P<0,05). Apesar de variações na participação tecidual na carcaça, a castração imunológica mostrou-se viável em substituição à castração cirúrgica, não alterando os padrões qualitativos da carne.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat characteristics of Aberdeen Angus steers surgically castrated at two ages or immunocastrated with two protocols. Forty-eight calves we used, monitored from birth and weaned, with age and initial mean weight of six months and 160±16.54kg, respectively. The animals were randomly assigned to the following treatments: surgical castration at birth; surgical castration at weaning; immunocastration with three doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine and immunocastration with four doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine. The experimental design was completely randomized. Immunocastrated steers with three doses had a greater cooling break and lower fat thickness adjusted for 100kg of cold carcass than surgically castrated at birth (P< 0.05). Immunocastration with three doses provided an increase in muscle participation in relation to surgical castration but reduced fat in relation to surgical castration at birth (P< 0.05). The muscle:bone ratio was higher in the immunocastrated with three doses compared to surgically castrated at weaning (P< 0.05). Despite variations in tissue involvement in the carcass, the immunological castration proved to be viable to replace surgical castration, not changing the quality of the meat standards.(AU)

Major seminal plasma proteome of rabbits and associations with sperm quality.

The present study was conducted to describe the major seminal plasma proteome of rabbits and potential associations between seminal proteins and semen criteria. Semen samples were collected from 18 New Zealand adult rabbits, and seminal plasma proteins were analyzed by 2-D SDS-PAGE and tandem mass spectrometry. Sperm motility, vigor, concentration, morphology and membrane sperm viability were evaluated. Rabbits ejaculated 364 ±â€¯70 million sperm/ml, with 81 ±â€¯6.1% motile cells, 3.8 ±â€¯0.2 vigor and 66.7 ±â€¯2.5% sperm with normal morphology. Based on the viability and acrosome integrity assay, there were 65.8 ±â€¯2.5% live sperm with intact acrosome and most spermatozoa had both intact acrosome and functional membrane. On average, 2-D gels of rabbit seminal plasma had 232 ±â€¯69.5 spots, as determined by PDQuest software (Bio Rad, USA). Mass spectrometry allowed the identification of 137 different proteins. The most abundant proteins in rabbit seminal plasma were hemoglobin subunit zeta-like, annexins, lipocalin, FAM115 protein and albumin. The intensity of the spots associated with these five proteins represented 71.5% of the intensity of all spots detected in the master gel. Multiple regression models were estimated using sperm traits as dependent variables and seminal plasma proteins as independent ones. Also, sperm motility had positive association with beta-nerve growth factor and cysteine-rich secretory protein 1-like and a negative one with galectin-1. The percentage of rabbit sperm with intact membrane was related to seminal plasma protein FAM115 complex and tropomyosin. Then, the population of morphologically normal sperm in rabbit semen was positively linked to carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 6-like and down regulated by seminal plasma isocitrate dehydrogenase. Based on another regression model, the variation in the percentage of live sperm with intact acrosome was partially explained by the amount of leukocyte elastase inhibitor and the peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase A in the rabbit seminal fluid. The current study reports the identification of 137 proteins of rabbit seminal plasma. Major proteins of seminal secretion relate primarily to prevention of damages caused by lipid peroxide radicals and oxidative stress, membrane functionality, transport of lipids to the sperm membrane and temperature regulation. Moreover, finding seminal plasma proteins as indicators of semen parameters will improve assisted reproductive technologies.

Alterações fisiológicas e comportamentais de bovinos de corte após o manejo de castração / Physiological and behavioral changes of beef cattle after castration management

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho, parâmetros fisiológicos e temperamentais de bovinos de corte não castrados ou submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou à imunocastração. O período experimental foi dividido em dois subperíodos de observações: primeiros 15 dias pós-castração (período de cicatrização) e os 25 dias seguintes à cicatrização. Nos primeiros 15 dias de avaliação, os animais não castrados obtiveram maior ganho médio diário de peso em relação aos castrados cirurgicamente. A frequência cardíaca foi maior para os animais castrados cirurgicamente, com 126,51 batimentos/minuto, em relação aos demais tratamentos. A distância de fuga foi superior para os novilhos castrados cirurgicamente, com valor de 12,22 metros. Nos 25 dias seguintes à castração cirúrgica, o ganho médio diário de peso foi superior nos bovinos castrados cirurgicamente em relação aos bovinos não castrados ou imunocastrados. A velocidade de fuga, no segundo subperíodo de avaliação, foi superior nos bovinos castrados em relação aos não castrados. O período imediato à castração, os primeiros 15 dias, prejudicou o ganho médio diário e o ganho de peso total, o que causou maior reatividade, com alterações nos parâmetros fisiológicos e temperamentais de bovinos castrados cirurgicamente em comparação com bovinos não castrados, entretanto, transcorrido o período de cicatrização, essas diferenças diminuíram ou desapareceram.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance, physiological and temperamental parameters of uncastrated beef cattle or those submitted to surgical castration or immunocastration, in the post-castration period. The experimental period was divided into two subperiods of observations: the first 15 days post-castration (healing period) and the 25 days following healing. In the first 15 days of evaluation, the non-castrated animals obtained a greater average daily gain of weight in relation to surgically castrated. The heart rate was higher for surgically castrated animals with 126,51 beats/minute, compared to the other treatments. The distance of escape was higher for the surgically castrated steers, with a value of 12,22 meters, when compared to the other groups studied. During the next 25 days of surgical castration, the mean daily gain of weight was higher in surgically castrated cattle than in non-castrated or immunocastrated cattle. The escape velocity, in the second evaluation subperiod, was superior in the castrated cattle, in relation to the not castrated. The immediate castration period, the first 15 days, altered the mean daily gain and the total weight gain, the physiological and temperamental parameters of surgically castrated cattle, however, after the healing period, these differences diminish or disappear.(AU)

In vitro antitumor effect of a lignan isolated from Combretum fruticosum, trachelogenin, in HCT-116 human colon cancer cells.

The use of natural products in therapeutics has been growing over the years. Lignans are compounds with large pharmaceutical use, which has aroused interest in the search for new drugs to treat diseases. The present study evaluated the cytotoxicity of (-)-trachelogenin, a dibenzylbutyrolactone type lignan isolated from Combretum fruticosum, against several tumor and non-tumor cell lines using the MTT assay and its possible mechanism of action. (-)-Trachelogenin showed IC50 values ranging of 0.8-32.4µM in SF-295 and HL-60 cell lines, respectively and IC50 values >64µM in non-tumor cell lines. (-)-trachelogenin persistently induced autophagic cell death, with cytoplasmic vacuolization and formation of autophagosomes mediated by increasing LC3 activation and altering the expression levels of Beclin-1.

Toxoplasma gondii in milk of naturally infected dairy ewes on west mesoregion of Santa Catarina state, Brazil / Toxoplasma gondii em leite de ovelhas leiteiras naturalmente infectadas na mesorregião oeste de Santa Catarina, Brasil

This study aimed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in the milk of dairy sheep in the Western mesorregion of state of Santa Catarina by bioassay (22 milk samples from eight ewes seropositive; IFA ≥256) and PCR [for the detection of agent in the brains of mice inoculated on bioassay and directly from milk (108 samples from 42 seropositive ewes (IFA, ≥64) in different lactation periods)]. T. gondii DNA was detected in mice brains inoculated with milk from eight sheep (a sample of the 45th day of lactation and seven in the collection of 90th day) and directly from the milk in samples of the second collection (90 days) in five animals. Taking into account both assays, from a total of 42 ewes in lactation and seropositive for T. gondii, 30.95% (13/42) of the animals presented evidences of T. gondii presence in milk. Positive PCR samples were sequenced and the results confirmed ≥97% identity with the membrane antigen P22 gene of T. gondii. The results showed that T. gondii is present in the milk of sheep, representing a possible source of infection to humans through the consumption of milk "in natura" and/or derivatives, besides the possibility of lactogenic transmission to lambs.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar Toxoplasma gondii no leite de ovinos leiteiros na mesorregião oeste de Santa Catarina, por meio do bioensaio (22 amostras de leite de oito ovelhas soropositivas para T. gondii - RIFI ≥256) e PCR [nos cérebros de camundongos inoculados no bioensaio e diretamente do leite (108 amostras de 42 ovelhas soropositivas (RIFI ≥64) em diferentes períodos de lactação)]. DNA de T. gondii foi detectado no cérebro de camundongos inoculados com leite das oito ovelhas (uma amostra do dia 45 e sete do dia 90 de lactação) e diretamente do leite em amostras da segunda coleta (90 dias de lactação), em cinco animais. Considerando os resultados de ambos os ensaios, de 42 ovelhas em lactação e soropositivas para T. gondii, 30,95% (13/42) dos animais apresentaram evidências da presença do parasito no leite. As amostras positivas na PCR foram sequenciadas e os resultados confirmaram ≥97% de identidade com o antígeno de membrana gene P22 de T. gondii. Os resultados mostraram que o T. gondii está presente no leite de ovelhas, o que representa uma possível fonte de infecção para os seres humanos, por meio do consumo de leite in natura e/ou de derivados, além da possibilidade de transmissão lactogênica aos cordeiros.(AU)

Pinpointing disulfide connectivities in cysteine-rich proteins.

A simple MD-based protocol is presented to accurately predict both the sequence and order of disulfide bond formation in proteins containing multiple cysteine residues. It provides a detailed description of their dynamical and structural features, which can be used to perform ensemble-averaged ECD calculations. Plant cyclotides are used as model compounds.

Anti-Leishmania activity of essential oil of Myracrodruon urundeuva (Engl.) Fr. All.: Composition, cytotoxity and possible mechanisms of action.

Myracrodruon urundeuva (Engl.) Fr. All., commonly known as "aroeira-do-sertão", is a medicinal plant from Anacardiaceae family. In this study, the chemical composition of M. urundeuva essential oil (MuEO) was evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), as well as its anti-Leishmania potential, cytotoxicity, and macrophage activation capability as possible antiprotozoal mechanism of action were assessed. Fourteen compounds were identified, which constituted 94.87% of total oil composition. The most abundant components were monoterpenes (80.35%), with ß-myrcene (42.46%), α-myrcene (37.23%), and caryophyllene (4.28%) as the major constituents. The MuEO inhibited the growth of promastigotes (IC50 205 ± 13.4 µg mL-1), axenic amastigotes (IC50 104.5 ± 11.82 µg mL-1) and decreased percentage of macrophage infection and number of amastigotes per macrophage (IC50 of 44.5 ± 4.37 µg⋅mL-1), suggesting significant anti-Leishmania activity. The cytotoxicity of MuEO was assessed by MTT test in Balb/c murine macrophages and by human erythrocytes lysis assay and low cytotoxicity for these cells was observed. The CC50 value against macrophages were 550 ± 29.21 µg mL-1, while cytotoxicity for erythrocytes was around 20% at the highest concentration assessed, with HC50 > 800 µg mL-1. While MuEO-induced anti-Leishmania activity is not mediated by increases in both lysosomal activity and nitric oxide production in macrophages, the results suggest the antiamastigote activity is associated with an immunomodulatory activity of macrophages due to an increase of phagocytic capability induced by MuEO. Thus, MuEO presented significant activity against Leishmania amazonensis, probably modulating the activation of macrophages, with low cytotoxicity to murine macrophages and human erythrocytes.

Genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii isolates from naturally infected Gallus domesticus in Santa Catarina state, Brazil / Genotipagem de Toxoplasma gondii isolados de Gallus domesticus naturalmente infectados no estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis is a widespread zoonosis that can infect warm-blooded animals including birds and humans, and chickens are considered to be indicators of environmental contamination. In Brazil, Toxoplasma gondii has a non-clonal population structure composed of three lineages (I, II, and III), presenting high recombination, and resulting in wide genetic diversity. This study aimed to genetically characterize T. gondii isolates from naturally infected chickens (Gallus domesticus) in Santa Catarina state, southern Brazil region. Sera from 133 free-range chickens were analyzed by an immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to detect IgG antibodies against T. gondii. Brain and heart from 30 positive animals, based on IFA (≥ 1:64), were used to isolate the parasite using a mouse bioassay. Strain genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP using 12 genetic markers (SAG1, 5´-3´SAG2, alt. SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico, and CS3). The results were classified according to the genotypes based on the ToxoDB (http://toxodb.org/toxo/). Of 133 chicken sera analyzed, 84 (63.16%) were positive, with antibody titers ranging from 16 to 1024. Eleven isolates were obtained from mouse bioassay (Ck3, Ck32, Ck35, Ck56, Ck63, Ck89, Ck102, Ck103, Ck125, Ck127, and Ck128). Genotyping revealed six genotypes; three were classified as #26, #53, and #120, and three (NEO1, NEO2, and NEO3) were had not been previously described. No clonal lineages of type I, II, or III were identified. The present study confirms the high genetic diversity of T. gondii in Brazil.(AU)

A toxoplasmose é uma zoonose de ampla distribuição, que acomete animais homeotérmicos, incluindo as aves e o ser humano. Galinhas podem ser consideradas indicadoras de contaminação ambiental. No Brasil, Toxoplasma gondii não apresenta estrutura populacional clonal (I, II e III), ocorrendo alta frequência de recombinação, o que resulta na grande diversidade genética observada. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar geneticamente T. gondii de galinhas (Gallus domesticus) naturalmente infectadas do estado de Santa Catarina. Soros de 133 aves criadas extensivamente foram analisados pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) para detecção de anticorpos IgG contra T. gondii. Para o isolamento do parasito (bioensaio em camundongos), foram utilizados coração e cérebro de 30 aves que apresentaram títulos maiores que 64 na RIFI. Os isolados obtidos foram submetidos à caracterização genotípica por meio da RFLP-PCR utilizando 12 marcadores genéticos (SAG1, 5'-3'SAG2, alt.SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico e CS3). Os resultados obtidos foram classificados de acordo com os genótipos presentes no ToxoDB (http://toxodb.org/toxo/). Das 133 amostras de soros de galinha analisadas, 84 (63,16%) foram positivas, com títulos de anticorpos variando de 16 a 1024. No bioensaio, foram obtidos 11 isolados (Ck 3, Ck 32, Ck 35, Ck 56, Ck 63, Ck 89, Ck 102, Ck 103, Ck 125, Ck127 e Ck 128). A análise genotípica revelou a presença de seis genótipos, três dos quais classificados como #26, #53 e #120, e três, NEO1, NEO2 e NEO3, não descritos anteriormente. Nenhuma linhagem clonal I, II ou III foi encontrada. O presente trabalho confirma a ampla diversidade genética do parasito observada no Brasil.(AU)

Synthetic pigments for Japanese quail fed diets with sorghum / Pigmentantes sintéticos para codornas japonesas alimentadas com rações à base de sorgo

Corn is the major energy ingredient in diets, and many ingredients have been tested aiming to replace it. In this regard, sorghum stands out for its chemical profile similar to that of corn. However, because it is low in carotenoids, its inclusion in diets reduces the egg yolk color pigmentation, which can be corrected by the addition of synthetic pigments. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and egg quality of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) supplemented with red (canthaxanthin) and yellow (apo-ester 10%) synthetic pigments. A total of 150 quail at 70 days of age were distributed according to the experimental diet [R1: corn-based control diet (DC); R2: sorghum-based diet (DS); R3: DS + yellow; R4: DS + yellow + red; and R5: DS + red] with six replications and five birds per experimental unit, for 28 days. Performance, egg quality, yolk color, and feed cost characteristics were evaluated. Regression equations were estimated for the effects of color as a function of periods, and treatment means were compared by Tukey's test at 0.05 probability. There was no significant effect (P>0.05) of additives on the quail productive traits. However, addition of synthetic pigments significantly improved the chromatic profile of the yolks (P<0.05). Inclusion of synthetic pigments improves yolk color, but should be evaluated according to market demands.(AU)

O milho é o principal ingrediente energético nas rações. A fim de substituí-lo, vários ingredientes foram testados. Nesse sentido, destaca-se o sorgo, pois apresenta perfil bromatológico semelhante ao do milho. No entanto, por ser deficiente em carotenoides, sua inclusão na ração reduz a pigmentação da gema do ovo, o que pode ser corrigido por meio da adição de pigmentos sintéticos. Objetivou-se, com este estudo, avaliar o desempenho zootécnico e a qualidade dos ovos de codornas japonesas (Coturnix japonica) suplementadas com os pigmentantes sintéticos vermelho (cantaxantina) e amarelo (apoéster 10%). Foram utilizadas 150 codornas japonesas com 70 dias de idade, distribuídas de acordo com a ração experimental (R1: ração referência à base de milho; R2: ração à base de sorgo (RS); R3: RS + amarelo; R4: RS + amarelo + vermelho; R5: RS + vermelho), com seis repetições e cinco aves por unidade experimental, durante 28 dias. Foram avaliadas as características de desempenho, qualidade dos ovos, cor da gema e custo das rações. Equações de regressão dos efeitos da cor em função dos períodos foram estimadas, e as médias de tratamento foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey com 0,05 de probabilidade. Não houve efeito significativo (P>0,05) dos aditivos sobre as características produtivas das codornas. Entretanto, a adição de pigmentantes sintéticos melhorou significativamente o perfil cromático das gemas dos ovos de codornas (P<0,05). A inclusão de pigmentantes sintéticos melhora a cor das gemas, porém deve ser avaliada de acordo com as exigências de mercado.(AU)

Misreport of energy intake assessed with food records and 24-h recalls compared with total energy expenditure estimated with DLW.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The accuracy of dietary assessment methods has rarely been validated using precise techniques. The objective of this work was to evaluate the validity of energy intake (EI) estimated with food records (FRs) and 24-h recalls (24hRs) against total energy expenditure (EE) estimated by the doubly labeled water (DLW) method. In addition, the magnitude of EI under-reporting was assessed along with its associated characteristics. SUBJECTS/METHODS: The studied group included 83 adults between 20 and 60 years of age who were recruited from a population-based sample. Within-person variation-adjusted means of EI estimated from two FRs and three 24hRs were compared with EE estimated using the DLW method multiple-point protocol. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess the differences between EI and EE, whereas Bland-Altman and survival-agreement plots assessed the agreement between the estimates. RESULTS: The mean EE (2540 kcal) was greater than the mean reported EI for both dietary assessment methods (FR: 1774 kcal; 24hR: 1658 kcal, P<0.01). The frequency of under-reporting was lower (20%) for EI estimated with the 24hR than that estimated with the FR (32%). Men presented lower magnitude of under-reported EI than women did. For women, differences between EI and EE were lower with FR than with 24hR. Overall, FR and 24hR showed similar performance. The mean under-reported EI was ~30% for both methods. CONCLUSIONS: Irregular meal habits, smoking and low education were associated with the under-report of EI. Both FR and 24hR are subjected to bias suggesting the need of refining the procedures applied in dietary assessment methods.