Putative adult neurogenesis in palaeognathous birds: The common ostrich (Struthio camelus) and emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae).

In the current study, we examined adult neurogenesis throughout the brain of the common ostrich (Struthio camelus) and emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) using immunohistochemistry for the endogenous markers PCNA which labels proliferating cells, and DCX, which stains immature and migrating neurons. The distribution of PCNA and DCX labelled cells was widespread throughout the brain of both species. The highest density of cells immunoreactive to both markers was observed in the olfactory bulbs and the telencephalon, especially the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricle. Proliferative hot spots, identified with strong PCNA and DCX immunolabelling, were identified in the dorsal and ventral poles of the rostral aspects of the lateral ventricles. The density of PCNA immunoreactive cells was less in the telencephalon of the emu compared to the common ostrich. Substantial numbers of PCNA immunoreactive cells were observed in the diencephalon and brainstem, but DCX immunoreactivity was weaker in these regions, preferentially staining axons and dendrites over cell bodies, except in the medial regions of the hypothalamus where distinct DCX immunoreactive cells and fibres were observed. PCNA and DCX immunoreactive cells were readily observed in moderate density in the cortical layers of the cerebellum of both species. The distribution of putative proliferating cells and immature neurons in the brain of the common ostrich and the emu is widespread, far more so than in mammals, and compares with the neognathous birds, and suggests that brain plasticity and neuronal turnover is an important aspect of cognitive brain functions in these birds.

Composto homeopático reduz a liberação de ânion superóxido pelas células mononucleares de ema (Rhea americana) / Homeopathic compound reduces the release of superoxide anion by mononuclear cells of rhea (Rhea americana)

The action of the "Stress Factor Ostrich (Arenales - Fauna and Flora)" was tested in the release of superoxide anion by cells in the peripheral blood of rhea (Rhea americana). Sixteen samples of 0.5mL of venous blood were collected through the jugular vein in the morning and placed in heparinized tubes. The leukocytes were separated into polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear (MN). The production of superoxide anion by phagocytes of peripheral blood was determined using the chromogen ferricytochrome C. There was a reduction of superoxide by MN cells in the presence of "Stress Factor Ostrich" indicating a positive influence of product against oxidative stress. Furthermore, future researches, such as the evaluation of other reactive oxygen intermediates and antioxidant enzymes, researches.

Composto homeopático reduz a liberação de ânion superóxido pelas células mononucleares de ema (Rhea americana) / Homeopathic compound reduces the release of superoxide anion by mononuclear cells of rhea (Rhea americana)

The action of the "Stress Factor Ostrich (Arenales - Fauna and Flora)" was tested in the release of superoxide anion by cells in the peripheral blood of rhea (Rhea americana). Sixteen samples of 0.5mL of venous blood were collected through the jugular vein in the morning and placed in heparinized tubes. The leukocytes were separated into polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear (MN). The production of superoxide anion by phagocytes of peripheral blood was determined using the chromogen ferricytochrome C. There was a reduction of superoxide by MN cells in the presence of "Stress Factor Ostrich" indicating a positive influence of product against oxidative stress. Furthermore, future researches, such as the evaluation of other reactive oxygen intermediates and antioxidant enzymes, researches.

Commercialization of animal-derived remedies as complementary medicine in the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil.

AIM OF THE STUDY: In this study, we aim to document the use of animal species in traditional medicine and healing practices in the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil. While widespread and of great importance to large population that has limited access to contemporary medicine, such practices are poorly understood and the potential value of medicinal animal species largely unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on interviews with the merchants of medicinal animals, we calculated the informant consensus factor (ICF) to determine the consensus over which species are effective for particular ailments, as well as the species relative importance to determine the extent of potential utilization of each species. RESULTS: We describe the therapeutic effects of 36 animal species used medicinally. The zootherapeutical products sold commercially are used to treat 40 health problems that were classified into 10 broad categories. We also highlight those species valued for their effectiveness against a range of ailments. The highest ICF value (0.91) was cited for diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which include relief of symptoms such as acne and furuncles. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that many animal species play an important role in healing practices. Animals provide the raw materials for remedies prescribed clinically and are also used in the form of amulets and charms in magic-religious rituals and ceremonies. The medicinal value of animal species depends on the local knowledge that exists within user communities, and therefore, the conservation of animal species is imperative to the preservation of local medicinal knowledge and culture.