Low Intraspecific Aggression Level, Cuticular Hydrocarbons, and Polydomy in the Bullet Ant.

Ants use chemical cues known as cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) for both intraspecific and interspecific recognition. These compounds serve ants in distinguishing between nestmates and non-nestmates, enabling them to coexist in polydomous colonies characterized by socially connected yet spatially separated nests. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the intraspecific aggression level between nestmates and non-nestmates of the bullet ant Paraponera clavata (Fabricius, 1775), analyze and compare their CHCs, and evaluate the occurrence of polydomy in this species. We conducted aggression tests between foragers, both in laboratory and field settings. To identify the chemical profiles, we utilized gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We marked the foragers found at nest entrances and subsequently recaptured these marked ants to validate workers exchange among nests. Across all nests, a low intraspecific aggression level was observed within the same area. However, a significant difference in aggression correlated to distance between nests. Analysis of the cuticular chemical profile of P. clavata unveiled colony-specific CHCs, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Notably, we observed instances of ants from certain nests entering or exiting different nests. This behavior, in conjunction with the observed low intraspecific aggression despite differences in CHCs suggests polydomy for this species. Polydomy can offer several benefits, including risk spreading, efficient exploitation of resources, potential for colony size increasing and reduced costs associated with foraging and competition.

Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Càmbess.) Eichler leaves aqueous extract improves colon inflammation through mucogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in TNBS- induced IBD rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Cambess.) Eichler, a member of the Salicaceae family, holds a prominent place in traditional medicine across various cultures due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized different parts of the plant, including leaves, bark, and roots, to address a wide array of health conditions. Traditional uses of C. sylvestris var. lingua encompasses the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, wound healing, inflammation, and stomach ulcers. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated the plant's antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. This signifies the first scientific validation report for C. sylvestris var. lingua regarding its effectiveness against ulcerative colitis. The report aims to affirm the traditional use of this plant through pre-clinical experiments. AIM OF THE RESEARCH: This work uses an aqueous extract from C. sylvestris var. lingua leaves (AECs) to evaluate the acute anti-ulcerative colitis efficacy in rat and HT-29 (human colorectal cancer cell line) models. METHODS: To determine the secondary metabolites of AECs, liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) study was carried out. 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS, 30 mg/0.25 mL EtOH 30% v/v) was used as an enema to cause acute colitis. Three days were spent giving the C. sylvestris var. lingua extract orally by gavage at dosages of 3, 30, and 300 mg/kg. The same route was used to deliver distilled water to the vehicle and naïve groups. After the animals were sacrificed on the fourth day, intestinal tissues were taken for histological examination and evaluation of biochemical tests such as those measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite/nitrate, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Additionally, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 10 (IL-10), were conducted on the intestinal tissues. Additionally, an MTT assay was used to evaluate the effect of AECs on the viability of HT-29 cells. Additionally, a molecular docking study was carried out to compare some potential target proteins with identified chemicals found in AECs. RESULTS: LC-DAD analysis identified five compounds (caffeic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin) in AECs. Pre-administration of AECs (3; 30; 300 mg/kg) and mesalazine (500 mg/kg) reduced macroscopic scores (55%, 47%, 45%, and 52%, p < 0.001) and ulcerated areas (70.3%, 70.5%, 57%, and 56%, p < 0.001), respectively. It also increased SOD, GSH, and CAT activities (p < 0.01), while decreasing MDA (p < 0.001), nitrite/nitrate (p < 0.05), and MPO (p < 0.001) activities compared to the colitis group. Concerning inflammatory markers, significant modulations were observed: AECs (3, 30, and 300 mg/kg) lowered levels of IL-1ß and TNF-α (p < 0.001) and increased IL-10 levels (p < 0.001) compared to the colitis groups. The viability of HT-29 cells was suppressed by AECs with an IC50 of 195.90 ± 0.01 µg/mL (48 h). During the molecular docking analysis, quercetin, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid demonstrated consistent binding affinities, forming stable interactions with the 3w3l (TLR8) and the 3ds6 (MAPK14) complexes. CONCLUSION: These results imply that the intestinal mucogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of the C. sylvestris var. lingua leaf extract may be involved in its therapeutic actions for ulcerative colitis. The results of the in silico study point to the possibility of quercetin and ellagic acid interacting with P38 and TLR8, respectively, in a beneficial way.

Hydrocarbons in Formicidae: influence of chemical footprints on ant behavioral strategies.

When an insect walks, it leaves chemical cues that derive from the arolium, a tarsal structure. These cues may contain important information about other species that occur in their community and can then mediate interactions of competition, predation, and information about resources with ants from their own colony. The compounds of these cues are released into the substrate in the form of chemical footprints. There are still few species studied, and little is known about the behavior of ants regarding these signals and how they use them in their interactions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the behavioral strategy of different ant species when confronted with chemical footprints left by other ants, as well as identify their compounds and their relationship with the cuticular hydrocarbon profile. The experiments were performed using a Y-maze, where in one of the arms, there were chemical footprints of their own species or of other species, and the other Y arm was footprint-free. The chemical compounds of footprints and cuticle were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results show that foragers of all species detect and respond to the presence of chemical cues in the form of footprints left by other ants. Foragers of all species followed footprints of individuals of the same species both nestmates and non-nestmates; however, Neoponera villosa avoided the footprints of Cephalotes borgmeieri, and C. borgmeieri avoided the footprints of the other two species. The chemical compositions of the cuticle and footprints are related to each other and are specific to each species.

Efficacy of essential oil from ginger (Zingiber officinale) for anesthesia and transport sedation of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus).

This study evaluated the anesthetic and sedative effects of the essential oil of Zingiber officinale (EOZO) on juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). Experiment 1 evaluated concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg L-1 EOZO for times of induction and recovery from anesthesia. Furthermore, hematological responses and residual components of EOZO in plasma were determined immediately after anesthesia. Experiment 2 evaluated the effect of 0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L-1 EOZO on water quality, blood variables and residual components of EOZO in plasma and tissues (muscle and liver) immediately after 2 h of transport. Survival was 100%. The three main compounds of EOZO [zingiberene (32.27%), ß-sesquiphellandrene (18.42%) and ß-bisabolene (13.93%)] were observed in animal plasma and tissues (muscle and liver) after anesthesia and transport, demonstrating a direct linear effect among the evaluated concentrations. The concentration of 200 mg L-1 EOZO promoted surgical anesthesia of pacu and prevented an increase in monocyte and neutrophil levels, yet did not alter other hematological parameters. The use of 30 mg L-1 EOZO has a sedative effect on juvenile pacu, thereby reducing oxygen consumption during transport. Furthermore, the use of 30 mg L-1 EOZO in transport water prevented an increase in hemoglobin and hematocrit, with minimal influences on other blood variables.

Preclinical safety evaluation of the ethanolic extract from campomanesia guazumifolia (cambess.) O. Berg fruits peels in rats.

The toxicological potential of the ethanolic extract from Campomanesia guazumifolia (EECG), a species traditionally recognised for its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and hypercholesterolemic properties, was investigated in acute and subacute toxicity models in rats. In the acute toxicity test, 2000 mg/kg of EECG was administered orally in female rats, while male and female rats received 250, 500 or 750 mg/kg of EECG for the subacute toxicity test. No evidence of toxicity was observed in the animals acutely exposed, indicating that the LD50 is above 2000 mg/kg. However, repeated exposure to this extract resulted in alterations in important biochemical parameters indicative of hepatic and renal toxicity, including AST, ALT, creatinine, urea, and cholesterol. Additionally, some hematological parameters were also changed by the treatment. EECG demonstrated low toxicological potential. Nevertheless, given the observed changes in liver and kidney enzymes, further investigations into the protective effects of this extract following repeated administration are warranted.

Antifungal activity of Caryocar brasiliense camb. Alone or along with antifungal agents against multidrug-resistant Candida auris.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Candida auris poses a severe global health threat, with many strains resistant to antifungal treatments, complicating therapy. Exploring natural compounds alongside conventional drugs offers promising therapeutic avenues. The antifungal potential of the ethanolic extract from Caryocar brasiliense (Cb-EE), a plant native to the Brazilian cerrado and renowned for its medicinal properties, was investigated against C. auris. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study examined the chemical composition, antifungal activity, mechanisms of action, and in vivo effects of Cb-EE. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Leaves of C. brasiliense were processed to extract ethanolic extract, which was evaluated for phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins. The antifungal capacity was determined through broth microdilution and checkerboard methods, assessing interaction with conventional antifungals. RESULTS: Cb-EE demonstrated fungistatic activity against various Candida species and Cryptococcus neoformans. Synergy with fluconazole and additive effects with other drugs were observed. Cb-EE inhibited C. auris growth, with the combination of fluconazole extending inhibition. Mechanistic studies revealed interference with fungal membranes, confirmed by sorbitol protection assays, cellular permeability tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Hemocompatibility and in vivo toxicity tests on Tenebrio molitor showed safety. CONCLUSION: Cb-EE, alone or in combination with fluconazole, effectively treated C. auris infections in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its prospective role as an antifungal agent against this emerging pathogen.

Biodiesel production potential of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms: comparison of collection sites and different alcohol transesterifications.

Renewable resources have stood out as raw materials in producing biofuels. This study aimed to evaluate the parameters of alcohol transesterification (ethanol and methanol) and localization of collection of aquatic macrophyte Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms in the production of biodiesel by in situ transesterification. E. crassipes was collected in Dourados and Corumbá (Brazil) municipalities. The fatty acid ester composition of the biodiesel was characterized and quantified by gas chromatography. The biodiesel properties were estimated using the BiodieselAnalyzer© program prediction. The ethyl transesterification resulted in higher yields, but the localization of collection was the most relevant parameter in biodiesel production according to the Permutation Multivariate Analysis of Variance. The simulation and comparison of the physical-chemical properties of E. crassipes biodiesel and BD 100 (commercial biodiesel) were promising for commercial application.

Ocimum basilicum essential oil in pacu Piaractus mesopotamicus: anesthetic efficacy, distribution, and depletion in different tissues.

This study aimed to evaluate the anesthetic activity of Ocimum basilicum essential oil and the distribution and depletion of its major compounds in different tissues of the pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus. Juveniles (319.08 ± 9.14 g) were individually anesthetized with six concentrations of essential oil from O. basilicum (150, 180, 210, 240, 270, and 300 mg L-1), while in a second experiment, fish (492.39 ± 51.51 g) were subjected to a 10 min immersion bath with essential oil from O. basilicum (300 mg L-1). After anesthetic recovery, blood and tissue samples of the brain, gills, liver, spleen, and white muscle were collected at 0, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0, 6.0, 12.0, and 24 h. A 300 mg L-1 concentration induced anesthesia in the shortest time (193.11 ± 9.31), while at 270 and 300 mg L-1 concentrations, the anesthetic recovery period was the longest (244.33 ± 12.44) Methyl chavicol and linalool were quantified in all tissue samples. The plasma concentrations of methyl chavicol differed (p < 0.05) at all evaluated times. Linalool decreased (p < 0.05) from 0 to 1 h and decreased again only after 12 h. Reduction percentages in 24 h were 92.9% for methyl chavicol, and 97.2% for linalool. Elimination of the compounds methyl chavicol and linalool is slower in the gills, where lower elimination constants (0.03 and 0.15 per h) and longer half-lives (25.84 and 4.53 h), respectively, are noted. In general, essential oil from O. basilicum compounds was readily eliminated, showing promising potential for use as an anesthetic in aquaculture.

Impacts of the insecticide thiamethoxam on the native stingless bee Plebeia catamarcensis (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini).

Agricultural production and the indiscriminate use of insecticides such as thiamethoxam have put at risk the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by bees, including native stingless species. Since most of the native species do not present economic importance, they may suffer "silent extinction", due to lack of monitoring of their colonies. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the lethal and sublethal concentrations of the insecticide thiamethoxam, with evaluation of its sublethal effects on mobility, in the stingless bee Plebeia catamarcensis (Holmberg, 1903). Foraging bees were collected and exposed to thiamethoxam to determine lethal (LC50) and sublethal concentrations. The 24 h LC50 was 0.408 ng a.i./µL, a value demonstrating that this species may be as sensitive as other stingless bees already studied. Sublethal concentrations influenced the locomotion abilities of the bees, making them hyperactive when exposed to LC50/10 and lethargic when exposed to LC50/100. The effects of sublethal concentrations on individuals may have collective consequences, especially in colonies with few individuals, as is the case of P. catamarcensis. The findings reinforce the hypothesis that thiamethoxam may contribute to the decline of native stingless bees, which can be significantly impacted when chronically exposed to agricultural production systems that use this insecticide, consequently affecting the ecosystem services provided by these bees.

Maternal-fetal safety evaluation of an aqueous extract of Casearia sylvestris leaves in rats.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the maternal, embryotoxic, and teratogenic effects of the aqueous extract of Casearia sylvestris (AECS), a species listed in the Unique Health System of Brazil, and widely used for treating several conditions, such as diarrhea, wounds, pain, and ulcers. METHODS: Pregnant rats were daily treated orally with 0, 175, 350, or 700 mg/kg/body weight of AECS, from gestational day (GD) 6 to 15 (organogenesis period). On GD 20, the pregnant rats were euthanized, and the litters submitted to an assessment of fetal development. RESULTS: No clinical signs of toxicity were observed in the dams during the treatment. In the embryo-fetal development study, a significant increase in the basal zone height of the placenta was observed in the intermediate dose group. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in the relative anogenital distance measurement of female fetuses in the lowest and intermediate dose groups. Although no visceral abnormalities were observed in the treated-fetuses, skeletal anomalies evidenced by changes in the ossification of the sternum and the presence of supernumerary ribs were found in the intermediate and high dose groups. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the treatment with AECS during organogenesis at this dose level had detrimental effects on the normal development of fetuses.

Chemical Components and Antioxidant Activity of Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi Stingless Bee Cerumen Reduce Juglone-Induced Oxidative Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Cerumen is a bee product produced exclusively by stingless bees, resulting from a mixture of beeswax and plant resins. The antioxidant activity of bee products has been investigated since oxidative stress is associated with the onset and progression of several diseases that can lead to death. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of cerumen produced by the Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi stingless bees, in vitro and in vivo. The chemical characterization of cerumen extracts was performed by HPLC, GC, and ICP OES analyses. The in vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated by DPPH• and ABTS•+ free radical scavenging methods, and in human erythrocytes subjected to oxidative stress with AAPH. In vivo, the antioxidant potential was evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes subjected to oxidative stress with juglone. Both cerumen extracts presented phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and metallic minerals in their chemical constitution. The cerumen extracts showed antioxidant activity by capturing free radicals, reducing lipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes, and reducing oxidative stress in C. elegans, observed by the increase in viability. The results obtained indicate that cerumen extracts from Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi stingless bees may be promising against oxidative stress and associated diseases.

Extracts from the Leaf of Couroupita guianensis (Aubl.): Phytochemical, Toxicological Analysis and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities against Oral Microorganisms.

The study of phytotherapy in dentistry holds great relevance because of the scarcity of research conducted on the treatment of oral pathologies, specifically, caries and periodontal disease. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze the chemical composition of extracts from Couroupita guianensis Aubl. leaves, evaluate their toxicity, and assess their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. Three extracts were prepared using assisted ultrasound and the Soxhlet apparatus, namely, Crude Ultrasound Extract (CUE), Crude Soxhlet Extract (CSE), and the Ethanol Soxhlet Extract (ESE). Flavonoids, tannins, and saponins were detected in the chemical analysis, while LC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, sinapic acid, rutin, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and apigenin in all extracts. GC-MS analysis identified stigmasterol and ß-sitosterol in the CUE and CSE. The ESE showed higher antioxidant activity (2.98 ± 0.96 and 4.93 ± 0.90) determined by the DPPH• and ABTS•+ methods, respectively. In the toxicity evaluation, the CUE at 50 µg/mL and the ESE at 50 µg/mL stimulated the growth of Allium cepa roots, while all extracts inhibited root growth at 750 µg/mL. None of the extracts exhibited toxicity against Artemia salina. Antibacterial activity was observed in all extracts, particularly against the microorganisms S. aureus and S. mutans. However, no antifungal activity against C. albicans was detected. These results suggest that extracts of C. guianensis have therapeutic potential for controlling microorganisms in the oral microbiota.

Characterization and subchronic oral toxicity of Pentaclethra macroloba (pracaxi) oil in Rattus norvegicus (lin. Wistar).

The trend of replacing antimicrobials as growth promoters in animal nutrition is growing. Functional oils emerge as an alternative because of their richness in bioactive compounds and bioavailability. The present study aims to evaluate the fatty acid profile, antioxidant capacity, composition of phenolic compounds, and toxic capacity in Wistar rats of pracaxi oil (Pentaclethra macroloba). DDPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), and ABTS (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid) were performed to assess antioxidant capacity. The composition of phenolic compounds was determined by specific reagents. For the evaluation of subchronic oral toxicity, 40 Wistar albino rats (20 males and 20 females) were randomized into 10 groups with different levels of pracaxi oil administered orally. The doses administered were 0, 300, 600, 1200 and 2400 mg/kg (Group 1 to 5 females and Group 6 to 10 males). The animals were submitted to evaluations described in the OECD manual (Guide 407). The analytical results showed that pracaxi oil has different fatty acids in its chemical composition: oleic, linoleic, arachidic, and behenic acids, which account for more than 90% of its composition. In a smaller percentage, lauric acid (0.17%), myristic (0.09%), palmitic (1.49%), stearic (3.45%), and linolenic acid (1.39%) were also found. According to the results of the antioxidant tests, pracaxi oil has a high antioxidant capacity and is a product with a high presence of phenolic compounds. Regarding the toxicity assessment, there were no alterations in the clinical signs and weight of organs. However, in histology, there were mild alterations of a possible toxic process with the increase in the oil dose. This research is extremely valuable since pracaxi oil is a product with little information about its potential use in animal nutrition.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of ethanolic extract from Serjania erecta leaves.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The infusion of Serjania erecta Radlk (Sapindaceae) (popular name "cipó-cinco-folhas") leaves is used in popular medicine to treat back pain. The anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperalgesic and anti-nociceptive properties of the ethanolic extract from S. erecta leaves (EESE) has not been yet completely clarified. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study investigated the anti-hyperalgesic, anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of EESE in experimental models in mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS: EESE was fractionated by chromatographic techniques and the compound was identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared (IR) spectrum, ultraviolet (UV) methods. Mice received a single dose of EESE by oral route (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, p.o.) and were submitted to nociception induced by formalin, pleurisy induced by carrageenan and peritonitis induced by zymosan models. Mice also received EESE (30 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) for 22 days in Complete Freund Adjuvant (CFA) model and another group received EESE for 7 days (30 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) in pleurisy induced by Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). The cytotoxicity (MTT), phagocytic and chemotactic inhibitory activities of EESE were performed in in vitro assays. RESULTS: The fractionation of EESE led to the identification of kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside. The oral administration of all doses of EESE decreased the nociceptive response induced by formalin. EESE significantly inhibited leukocyte migration in carrageenan-induced pleurisy and zymosan peritonitis models. The daily administration of EESE during for 7 days inhibited the leukocyte migration and the mycobacteria growth of pleural material obtained from animals which received BCG. EESE significantly reduced edema, cold allodynia and mechanical hyperalgesia responses induced by CFA. EESE did not induce cytotoxicity, and also decreased the leukocyte phagocytic activity, as well as, neutrophil chemotaxis. CONCLUSIONS: EESE showed analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in acute and persistent experimental models in mice. EESE also reduced in vitro leukocyte chemotaxis and phagocytic activity without inducing cytotoxicity. The continuous oral treatment with EESE was effective against hyperalgesia and inflammation and these results could explain the popular use of S. erecta as an analgesic natural agent.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous extract obtained from Serjania marginata Casar leaves.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Serjania marginata Casar (Sapindaceae Family) Leaves are popularly used against abdominal pain. Antiulcer properties of S. marginata were scientifically described, however rare studies showed the antinociceptive effects of this plant. AIM OF STUDY: In this study, we investigated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of aqueous extract obtained from Serjania marginata leaves (AESM) in nociception/inflammation models. MATERIAL AND METHODS: AESM was analyzed in FIA-ESI-IT-MS and Mass spectrometer LTQ XL. AESM oral administration (p.o.) (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg), dexamethasone subcutaneous injection (1 mg/kg, s.c.) and morphine (5 mg/kg, s.c.) were tested against the acetic acid-induced nociception, carrageenan-induced acute inflammatory paw edema/hyperalgesia, formalin-induced nociception and carrageenan-induced pleurisy in Swiss mice. RESULTS: Flavonoids rutin was detected in the phytochemical analysis of this extract. Oral treatment of AESM 300 mg/kg significantly reduced the number of acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing. AESM (100 and 300 mg/kg) significantly inhibited formalin-induced nociception, mechanical hyperalgesia and paw edema in carrageenan-model. Furthermore, AESM significantly inhibited leukocyte migration and protein exudation in the carrageenan-induced pleurisy test. CONCLUSION: This study confirms the antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory activity of AESM, which may explain, in part, the popular use of this plant as a natural antinociceptive agent. This pharmacological action can be caused by flavonoids such as rutin and other compounds present in AESM.

Green tea beneficial effects involve changes in the profile of immune cells in the adipose tissue of obese mice.

PURPOSE: During obesity, the adipose tissue is usually infiltrated by immune cells which are related to hallmarks of obesity such as systemic inflammation and insulin resistance (IR). Green tea (GT) has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory actions, including the modulation in the proliferation and activity of immune cells, in addition to preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. METHODS: The aim of the present study was to analyze the population of immune cells present in the subcutaneous and epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT) of mice kept at thermoneutrality (TN) and fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks, supplemented or not with GT extract (500 mg/kg/12 weeks). RESULTS: The HFD in association with TN has induced chronic inflammation, and IR in parallel with changes in the profile of immune cells in the subcutaneous and epidydimal WAT, increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines release, inflammatory cells infiltration, and fibrotic aspects in WAT. On the other hand, GT prevented body weight gain, in addition to avoiding IR and inflammation, and the consequent tissue fibrosis, maintaining a lower concentration of cytokines and a profile of immune cells similar to the control mice, preventing the harmful modulations induced by both HFD and TN. CONCLUSIONS: GT beneficial effects in WAT abrogated the deleterious effects triggered by HFD and TN, maintaining all immune cells and fibrotic markers at the same level as in lean mice. These results place WAT immune cells population as a potential target of GT action, also highlighting the positive effects of GT in obese mice housed at TN.

Lactational exposure to venlafaxine provokes late repercussions on reproductive parameters in male rat offspring.

Exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can affect hormone-dependent processes, such as the brain sexual differentiation. Because the use of these antidepressants cause concern during lactation, we evaluated the possible effects of venlafaxine on lactational exposure and its late repercussions on reproductive parameters in male rats. Lactating rats were exposed to venlafaxine (3.85, 7.7, or 15.4 mg/kg/body weight; gavage), from lactational day 1 to 20. Venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine residues were found in all milk samples of dams treated, demonstrating the lactational transfer of this antidepressant to the offspring. Although the maternal behavior was normal, the dams presented an increase in urea and uric acid levels in the groups treated with 7.7 and 15.4, respectively, as well as a spleen weight increased in the 3.85 and 15.4 groups. The male offspring showed a decrease in play behavior parameters in the intermediate dose group. Sperm analysis indicated a reduction in sperm motility in all treated groups. The androgen receptor expression in the hypothalamus was decreased in the highest dose group, although the sexual behavior had not been affected. In conclusion, venlafaxine was transferred through breast milk and promoted changes in play behavior, sperm quality, and hypothalamic androgen receptor (AR) content, which may indicate an incomplete masculinization of the brain of male offspring.

Metal bioaccumulation in fish from the Araguari River (Amazon biome) and human health risks from fish consumption.

Recently, high concentrations of metals have been found in the waters from sampling sites located in the Araguari River lower section. These metals can be bioaccumulated by fish, but also biomagnified, representing a potential risk through human consumption. Here, we aimed to (1) determine the metal concentrations in muscle samples from fish; (2) evaluate bioaccumulation of metals in muscle tissue of fish species with different feeding behaviors; and (3) investigate the risks of single metals, as well as mixture of metals, to human fish consumption. Eleven fish species were sampled (3 carnivorous, 5 omnivorous, and 3 detritivorous). In four fish species, Cd and Pb concentrations exceeded the Brazilian maximum limits (MLs) for human consumption. Individually, Pb and Cd concentrations in the muscle of these fish indicate risks to human health. When considering the mixture of metals, the consumption of all fish species represents risks. The highest risks implicate detritivorous species. For all fish species evaluated, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of Hg shows values above its reference dose (RfD). Our results suggest the need to establish an environmental monitoring program that aims to preserve environmental quality, biodiversity, and human health. It is also necessary to develop actions that aim to educate Amazonian populations on safe fish preparation and consumption.

Geographical variation in the chemical composition, anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil, micromorphology and histochemistry of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi (Anacardiaceae) is rich in essential oil, distinguished by a predominance of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, it being widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammations. AIM OF STUDY: This study's objective was to investigate the chemical composition of the essential oil of S. terebinthifolia (EOST) collected in six states of Brazil, evaluate its anti-inflammatory effects in mice, and analyze the histochemistry and micromorphology of leaves and stems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aerial parts of S. terebinthifolia were collected in six states of Brazil, and the essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The histochemistry and micromorphology of leaves and stems were performed using standard reagents, light and field emission scanning electron microscopy, beyond energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The EOST were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity and hyperalgesia using the carrageenan-induced paw edema methodology. RESULTS: The EOST showed variation across the six states in its yield (0.40%-0.86%) and chemical composition: hydrocarbon monoterpenes (28.76%-47.73%), sesquiterpenes, (31.43%-41.76%), oxygenated monoterpenes (14.31%-19.57%), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (4.87%-14.38%). Both α-pinene and limonene were predominant constituents of essential in five regions, except for one state where α-phellandrene and limonene were the dominant components. A comprehensive description of the leaf and stem micromorphology and histochemistry was performed. In the in vivo testing, all EOST samples exerted antiedematogenic and anti-hyperalgesic effects, when tested in a carrageenan-induced paw inflammation (mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia) model with oral doses of 30 mg/kg. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that the EOST samples collected in six Brazilian states differed in their chemical composition but not their anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects, which was correlated with the synergistic effect of its components, collaborating the etnhopharmacologycal use of this plant due to its an anti-inflammatory effect. Also, micromorphology and histochemistry of leaves and stems presented in this study provide anatomical and microchemical information, which aids species identification.

Effect of thiamethoxam (organophosphate) on the flies and beetle visitation and cadaveric decomposition process

ABSTRACT Entomofauna associated with decaying cadavers may be useful in criminal investigation, either through the development of immature insects of interest or through entomological succession in corpses. These factors may vary if the insects are exposed to toxic substances that can modify the insect's developmental cycle, as well as its own occurrence, which would imply significant changes in the results of any investigation. However, there are few studies on how contamination by toxic compounds can affect the action of insects on carcasses and their consequence for forensic expertise. Therefore, this study aimed to test the hypothesis that the normal visitation of flies and beetles is altered in insecticide-contaminated carcasses. The experiment was carried out in a sugarcane plantation, using pig carcasses contaminated with insecticide and the same number of carcasses without any type of contamination as a control. In all experiments, the contaminated carcasses reached the final phase of decomposition in a longer time than the uncontaminated carcasses of the control group. A total of 2.767 specimens were collected and identified, 2.103 individuals from the order Diptera and 664 from the order Coleoptera. There was a significant geometric regression adjustment during the decomposition phases only for the control group, different from the contaminated carcasses in which this pattern did not occur. Results show that contamination by insecticide alters decomposition time and phase, altering the action of flies and beetles, affecting the abundance, composition of species as well as their activities, which can alter the data used by experts in criminal experts.