Alpha lipoic acid controls degeneration and ensures follicular development in ovine ovarian tissue cultured in vitro.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of adding alpha lipoic acid (ALA) to the in vitro ovarian tissue culture medium, either fresh or after vitrification/warming. For this purpose, 10 ovaries from five adult sheep were used. Each pair of ovaries gave rise to 16 fragments and were randomly distributed into two groups: fresh (n = 8) and vitrified (n = 8). Two fresh fragments were fixed immediately and considered the control, while another six were cultured in vitro for 14 days in the absence; presence of a constant (100 µM/0-14 day) or dynamic (50 µM/day 0-7 and 100 µM/day 8-14) concentration of ALA. As for the vitrified fragments, two were fixed and the other six were cultured in vitro under the same conditions described for the fresh group. All the fragments were subjected to morphological evaluation, follicular development and stromal density (classical histology), DNA fragmentation (TUNEL), senescence (Sudan Black), fibrosis (Masson's Trichome), and endoplasmic reticulum stress (immunofluorescence). Measurements of the antioxidant capacity against the free radicals 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and estradiol (E2) levels in the culture medium was performed. The results showed that in the absence of ALA, in vitro culture of vitrified ovarian fragments showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in follicular morphology and increased the presence of senescence and tissue fibrosis (P < 0.05). Dynamic ALA maintained E2 levels unchanged (P > 0.05) until the end of vitrified ovarian tissue culture and controlled the levels of ABTS and DPPH radicals in fresh or vitrified cultures. Therefore, it is concluded that ALA should be added to the vitrified ovarian tissue in vitro culture medium to reduce the damage that leads to loss of ovarian function. To ensure steroidogenesis during in vitro culture, ALA should be added dynamically (different concentrations throughout culture).

Parkia from Cerrado: phytochemical bioprospection, toxicity and in vitro bioactivities of bark and flower extracts.

Parkia platycephala is the only species of the genus Parkia that is endemic to the brazilian Cerrado and the tree symbol of the state of Tocantins, but there are still few studies regarding its bioprospecting. In this study, we aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition, toxicity and bioactivities of the bark and flower of Parkia platycephala. Hot sequential extractions (Soxhlet) were performed using methanol and hydroethanolic solution (70%), after degreasing the sample (hexane). The presence of flavonoids, tannins, steroids and alkaloids was detected in the preliminary screening. Trilinolein, (Z)-9-octadecenamide, 3-O-methyl-d-glucose were detected by Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In the Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detector (LC-PDA) analysis, it was detected exclusively ferulic acid (bark) and ellagic acid (flower). The ethanolic extract of the bark (IC50=10.69 ± 0.35 µgmL-1) has an antioxidant potential (DPPH• radical) higher than that of the rutin standard (IC50=15.85 ± 0.08 µgmL-1). All extracts showed excellent anticholinesterase potential (Ellman), with emphasis on the ethanol extract of the flower (IC50 =5.34 ± 0.12 µgmL-1). Regarding toxicity (Artemia salina), the methanolic extract of the bark and the ethanolic extract of the flower presented high and moderate levels, respectively. Such results limit the concentrations of biological activities in this study, however, the antioxidant and anticholinesterase indices fall short of toxicity. The results demonstrated promising antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities of both the bark and the flower of Parkia platycephala.

Effect of carvacrol antioxidant capacity on oocyte maturation and embryo production in cattle.

Carvacrol (C10H14O), an efficient phenolic antioxidant substance for several cell types, may become a useful antioxidant for female germ cells and embryo culture. This study investigates the effects of carvacrol supplementation on bovine oocytes in in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production. In total, 1222 cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in TCM-199+ alone (control treatment) or supplemented with carvacrol at the concentrations of 3 µM (Carv-3), 12.5 µM (Carv-12.5), or 25 µM (Carv-25). After IVM, the oocytes were subjected to in vitro fertilization and embryo production, and the spent medium post-IVM was used for evaluating the levels of reactive oxygen species and the antioxidant capacity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid quantification). A greater (P < 0.05) antioxidant potential was observed in the spent medium of all carvacrol-treated groups compared with the control medium. Moreover, the addition of carvacrol to the maturation medium did not affect (P > 0.05) blastocyst production on days 7 and 10 of culture; however, the total number of cells per blastocyst was reduced (P < 0.05) in two carvacrol-treated groups (Carv-3 and Carv-25). In conclusion, carvacrol demonstrated a high antioxidant capacity in the spent medium after oocyte maturation; however, although embryo production was not affected, in general, carvacrol addition to IVM medium reduced the total number of cells per blastocyst. Therefore, due to the high antioxidant capacity of carvacrol, new experiments are warranted to investigate the beneficial effects of lower concentrations of carvacrol on embryo production in cattle and other species.

Oocyte in vitro maturation with eugenol improves the medium antioxidant capacity and total cell number per blastocyst.

This study investigates the impact of eugenol (EU) supplementation on bovine oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) and antioxidant capacity, as well as in vitro embryo production and quality after conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF). A total of 1077 cumulus oocyte complexes were cultured in TCM-199+ without EU supplementation (control treatment) or supplemented with EU at the concentrations of 10 µM (EU-10), 20 µM (EU-20), or 40 µM (EU-40). After IVM, the oocytes were subjected to IVF and embryo culture. The addition of EU at 40 µM to the IVM medium improved (P < 0.05) the antioxidant capacity and cleavage rate when compared to the control treatment. Moreover, a positive correlation (r = 0.61, P < 0.03) was observed between cleavage rate and EU concentration. The addition of EU at concentrations of 10 and 20 µM decreased (P < 0.05) the calreticulin (CALR) levels in expanded blastocysts when compared to the control treatment and EU-40 treatment. However, the EU-10 and EU-20 treatments had a greater (P < 0.05) mean total cell number (TCN) per expanded blastocyst when compared to the control treatment and EU-40 treatment. In conclusion, the addition of EU to the enriched culture medium during IVM of bovine oocytes improved the antioxidant capacity of the spent medium, as well as the cleavage rate and embryonic quality (i.e., TCN/expanded blastocyst), and reduced the endoplasmic reticulum stress (i.e., CALR levels) in the embryos. Thus, we recommend enriching the IVM medium with 10 µM EU for in vitro bovine embryo production.

Does the use of topical anesthetics reduce the perception of pain during needle puncture and anesthetic infiltration? Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

The objective of this systematic review was to assess whether the use of topical anesthetics reduces the perception of pain during puncture and anesthetic infiltration. Twenty-two randomized controlled clinical trials, published in English on or before August 6, 2020, were found in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Risk of bias was determined for randomization and other issues. A total of 1029 patients were evaluated using parameters such as type of topical anesthetic, application site, and pain (measured on a scale). Some studies assessed more than one topical anesthetic. Seventeen of them showed a reduction in pain from needle puncture and four from infiltration. Meta-analyses for some results showed considerable statistical heterogeneity. Regarding pain during needle puncture of the maxilla, statistically significant differences were observed in the topical anesthetics group, in both the vestibular (P = 0.0002) and palatal (P = 0.005) region. This was different from the mandible, for which there was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.07). With regard to pain caused by anesthetic infiltration in the maxilla, there was no difference in the use of anesthetic in relation to the control group (P = 0.11). Given these findings, using topical anesthetics only relieves pain during needle puncture and in the maxilla. PROSPERO 2020: CRD42020206362.

Biofilm of Candida albicans: formation, regulation and resistance.

Candida albicans is the most common human fungal pathogen, causing infections that range from mucous membranes to systemic infections. The present article provides an overview of C. albicans, with the production of biofilms produced by this fungus, as well as reporting the classes of antifungals used to fight such infections, together with the resistance mechanisms to these drugs. Candida albicans is highly adaptable, enabling the transition from commensal to pathogen due to a repertoire of virulence factors. Specifically, the ability to change morphology and form biofilms is central to the pathogenesis of C. albicans. Indeed, most infections by this pathogen are associated with the formation of biofilms on surfaces of hosts or medical devices, causing high morbidity and mortality. Significantly, biofilms formed by C. albicans are inherently tolerant to antimicrobial therapy, so the susceptibility of C. albicans biofilms to current therapeutic agents remains low. Therefore, it is difficult to predict which molecules will emerge as new clinical antifungals. The biofilm formation of C. albicans has been causing impacts on susceptibility to antifungals, leading to resistance, which demonstrates the importance of research aimed at the prevention and control of these clinical microbial communities.

The role of the quaternary structure in the activation of human L-asparaginase.

Human L-asparaginase-like protein 1 (ASRGL1) has hydrolytic activity against L-asparagine and isoaspartyl dipeptides. As an N-terminal nucleophile hydrolase family member, its activation depends on an intramolecular autoprocessing step between G167 and T168. In vitro, autoprocessing reaches only 50% completion, which restrains the activity and hampers the full understanding of the activation process. The ASRGL1 dimer interface plays a critical role in intramolecular processing, and the interactions within oligomers can offer relevant information about autoprocessing. In this work, a fully processed trimeric conformation of ASRGL1 was observed for the first time, and we combined biophysical and structural proteomics assays to characterize trimeric ASRGL1. Our analyses show that oligomerization is critical for autoprocessing, hydrolytic activity and thermal stability. The newest trimeric ASRGL1 conformation enhances protein activity and presents a melting temperature deviation of 4.33 °C in comparison to the monomeric conformation. The interaction of the third monomer in the trimeric conformation is driven by an α-helix comprising residues KVNLARLTLF (227-236).

Recombinant micro-exon gene 3 (MEG-3) antigens from Schistosoma mansoni failed to induce protection against infection but show potential for serological diagnosis.

Sequence databases on Schistosoma mansoni have revealed micro-exon gene (MEGs) families. Many of these genes are highly expressed in parasite life cycle stages associated with the mammalian host infection and appear to be involved in immune evasion by schistosomes. So, we believe that MEG-coding proteins would make potential candidates for vaccine development or diagnosis for schistosomiasis. Here, we study MEG-3.2 and MEG-3.4, members of the MEG-3 family. Recombinant (r) proteins were produced and formulated with Freund's adjuvant for vaccination of mice. Immunization with recombinant MEG-3.2 or MEG-3.4 formulation generated high levels of IgG1 antibodies. Additionally, vaccination also induced a mixed Th1/Th2/Th17-type of response, since IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-17 cytokines were detected in the supernatant of spleen cell cultures; however it failed to induce reduction in parasitic worm burden. Finally, the recombinant proteins were evaluated in a serological assay using human samples. Schistosome-infected individuals showed higher levels of both IgG and IgM against rMEG-3.2 compared to non-infected individuals, while only IgM anti-rMEG-3.4 antibodies were elevated in infected patients. Therefore, between both studied molecules, MEG-3.2 protein is the antigen that shows potential to compose a serological diagnosis test for schistosomiasis.

Bioactivity and Toxicity of Senna cana and Senna pendula Extracts.

This work investigated the content of total polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids as well as their toxicity and larvicidal and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities. The antioxidant activities of two medicinal Senna species extracts (Senna cana and Senna pendula) were also investigated. The ethanol extract of the leaves of S. cana and the ethanol extract of the branches of S. pendula presented the best performance in the DPPH/FRAP and ABTS/ORAC assays, respectively. For the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, the hexane extract of the flowers of S. pendula presented the lowest IC50 value among the ethanol extracts of the leaves of S. cana and showed the best performance in some assays. The hexane extract of the leaves of S. pendula and the hexane extract of the branches of S. cana were moderate to Artemia salina Leach. In the quantification of phenols and flavonoids, the ethanol extract of the leaves of S. cana presented the best results. The ethanol extracts of the leaves of S. cana were found to be rich in antioxidants, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. These results indicate the antioxidant potential of the extracts of Senna species and can be responsible for some of the therapeutic uses of these plants.

l-arginine modulates inflammation and muscle regulatory genes after a single session of resistance exercise in rats.

We investigated the skeletal muscle adaptation to l-arginine supplementation prior to a single session of resistance exercise (RE) during the early phase of muscle repair. Wistar rats were randomly assigned into non-exercised (Control), RE plus vehicle (RE); RE plus l-arginine (RE+L-arg) and RE plus aminoguanidine (RE+AG) groups. Animals received four doses of either vehicle (0.9% NaCl), l-arg (1 g/b.w.), or AG (iNOS inhibitor) (50 mg/b.w.). The animals performed a single RE session until the concentric failure (ladder climbing; 80% overload) and the skeletal muscles were harvested at 0, 8, 24, and 48 hours post-RE. The RE resulted in increased neutrophil infiltrate (24 hours post-RE) (3621 vs 11852; P<.0001) associated with enhanced TNF-α (819.49 vs 357.02; P<.005) and IL-6 (3.84 vs 1.08; P<.0001). Prior, l-arginine supplementation attenuates neutrophil infiltration (5622; P<.0001), and also TNF-α (506.01; P<.05) and IL-6 (2.51, P<.05) levels. AG pretreatment mediated an inhibition of iNOS levels similar to levels found in RE group. RE animals displayed increased of atrogin-1 (1.9 fold) and MuRF-1 (3.2 fold) mRNA levels, reversed by l-arg supplementation [atrogin-1 (0.6 fold; P<.001); MuRF-1 (0.8-fold; P<.001)] at 24 hours post-RE. MyoD up-regulated levels were restricted to l-arg treated animals at 24 hours (2.8 vs 1.5 fold; P<.005) and 48 hours post-RE (2.4 vs 1.1 fold; P<.001). AG pretreatment reversed these processes at 24 hours [atrogin-1 (2.1 fold; P<.0001); MuRF-1 (2.5 fold; P<.0001); MyoD (1.4 fold)]. l-arginine supplementation seems to attenuate the resolution of RE-induced muscle inflammation and up-regulates MyoD expression during the early phase of muscle repair.

Involvement of mast cells, CD68+ and VEGF+ expressions in response to Himatanthus drasticus commercial latex in mice wound healing model / Envolvimento de mastócitos, expressão de CD68+ e VEGF+ em resposta ao látex comercial de Himatanthus drasticus em modelo de cicatrização em camundongos

This study aimed to evaluate Himatanthus drasticus latex in a mice wound healing experimental model. Animals were divided into four groups (n=7) according to the treatments: GI - saline 0.9% (control), GII - mineral oil (vehicle), GIII - H. drasticus commercial latex (HdCL) and GIV - H. drasticus mixed isolated fraction (MIF, 1 mg/mL). The treatments were applied topically once daily, 50 µL for 14 consecutive days. Macroscopic lesions were evaluated, considering parameters such as swelling, redness, granulation tissue and reepithelialization. VEGF+, CD68+ expressions and mast cells (Toluidin blue stain) were evaluated. HdCL induced higher contraction and exuberant granulation tissue (P > 0.05). HdCL showed a mild inflammatory process while MIF induced intense infiltrate inflammatory predominantly by lymphocytes, vascular congestion, bleeding and did not presented full reepithelialization. Reorganization of collagen fibers (red picrosirius stain) was observed. CD68+ expression and mast cells were presented as moderate, intense and mild in GI, GIII and GIV, respectively. Neovascularization occurred in all groups, while VEGF+ expression was intense in MIF in relation to HdCL. We concluded that HdCL presents wound healing potential, through modulation of mast cells, CD68+ and VEGF+ expressions that can be associated to triterpenes presence according MIF isolated from HdCL.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o látex de Himatanthus drasticus em feridas induzidas experimentalmente em camundongos. Os animais foram divididos em quatro grupos (n=7): GI - salina 0,9% (controle), GII - óleo mineral (veículo), GIII - látex comercial de H. drasticus (HdCL) e GIV - fração isolada mista de H. drasticus (MIF, 1mg/mL). Os tratamentos foram aplicados topicamente uma vez ao dia (50µL), durante 14 dias consecutivos. Lesões macroscópicas, as expressões de VEGF+, CD68+ e a participação dos mastócitos (coloração azul de toluidina) foram avaliadas. HdCL induziu maior contração e tecido de granulação exuberante (P >0,05). HdCL induziu leve processo inflamatório enquanto MIF promoveu intenso infiltrado inflamatório predominantemente linfocítico, congestão vascular, hemorragia e reepitelização parcial. Observou-se reorganização das fibras colágenas (coloração picrosírius). A expressão de CD68+ e os mastócitos apresentaram-se moderados, intensos e leves em GI, GIII e GIV, respectivamente. A neovascularização foi observada em todos os grupos, enquanto a expressão de VEGF+ foi mais intensa em MIF em relação a HdCL. Conclui-se que HdCL apresenta potencial de cicatrização por meio da modulação dos mastócitos e das expressões de CD68+ e VEGF+, o que pode estar associado à presença de triterpenos de acordo com MIF isolada de HdCL.(AU)

Involvement of mast cells, CD68+ and VEGF+ expressions in response to Himatanthus drasticus commercial latex in mice wound healing model / Envolvimento de mastócitos, expressão de CD68+ e VEGF+ em resposta ao látex comercial de Himatanthus drasticus em modelo de cicatrização em camundongos

This study aimed to evaluate Himatanthus drasticus latex in a mice wound healing experimental model. Animals were divided into four groups (n=7) according to the treatments: GI - saline 0.9% (control), GII - mineral oil (vehicle), GIII - H. drasticus commercial latex (HdCL) and GIV - H. drasticus mixed isolated fraction (MIF, 1 mg/mL). The treatments were applied topically once daily, 50 µL for 14 consecutive days. Macroscopic lesions were evaluated, considering parameters such as swelling, redness, granulation tissue and reepithelialization. VEGF+, CD68+ expressions and mast cells (Toluidin blue stain) were evaluated. HdCL induced higher contraction and exuberant granulation tissue (P > 0.05). HdCL showed a mild inflammatory process while MIF induced intense infiltrate inflammatory predominantly by lymphocytes, vascular congestion, bleeding and did not presented full reepithelialization. Reorganization of collagen fibers (red picrosirius stain) was observed. CD68+ expression and mast cells were presented as moderate, intense and mild in GI, GIII and GIV, respectively. Neovascularization occurred in all groups, while VEGF+ expression was intense in MIF in relation to HdCL. We concluded that HdCL presents wound healing potential, through modulation of mast cells, CD68+ and VEGF+ expressions that can be associated to triterpenes presence according MIF isolated from HdCL.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o látex de Himatanthus drasticus em feridas induzidas experimentalmente em camundongos. Os animais foram divididos em quatro grupos (n=7): GI - salina 0,9% (controle), GII - óleo mineral (veículo), GIII - látex comercial de H. drasticus (HdCL) e GIV - fração isolada mista de H. drasticus (MIF, 1mg/mL). Os tratamentos foram aplicados topicamente uma vez ao dia (50µL), durante 14 dias consecutivos. Lesões macroscópicas, as expressões de VEGF+, CD68+ e a participação dos mastócitos (coloração azul de toluidina) foram avaliadas. HdCL induziu maior contração e tecido de granulação exuberante (P >0,05). HdCL induziu leve processo inflamatório enquanto MIF promoveu intenso infiltrado inflamatório predominantemente linfocítico, congestão vascular, hemorragia e reepitelização parcial. Observou-se reorganização das fibras colágenas (coloração picrosírius). A expressão de CD68+ e os mastócitos apresentaram-se moderados, intensos e leves em GI, GIII e GIV, respectivamente. A neovascularização foi observada em todos os grupos, enquanto a expressão de VEGF+ foi mais intensa em MIF em relação a HdCL. Conclui-se que HdCL apresenta potencial de cicatrização por meio da modulação dos mastócitos e das expressões de CD68+ e VEGF+, o que pode estar associado à presença de triterpenos de acordo com MIF isolada de HdCL.(AU)

Effects of cryolipolysis on abdominal adiposity of women.

　　BACKGROUND: The cryolipolysis is on the spotlight as a non-invasive method which reduces fat layer thickness with no damage to surrounding tissues. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to verify the effectiveness of cryolipolysis in the reduction of localized adiposity in women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an experimental study, without a control group, with pre- and post- treatment evaluation through a single application on the lower abdominal area. SETTING: Research conducted in the period from July to December 2015 at the University Potiguar. PARTICIPANTS: A group of 15 women, age between 25-50 years. The cryolipolysis was used in the following parameters: temperature (-7 degree C); suction power (30 kPa), and application time (60 min). MEASUREMENTS: After the cryolipolysis was performed, a follow-up of 2 months was conducted to verify the changes related to weight, body circumference, fat layer thickness, which were evaluated by ultrasonography and photogrammetry. RESULTS: From data analysis, the reductions observed on perimeter (p=0.03) and ultrasonography (p=0.03) showed significant results, considering p <0.05. As of body weight results (p=0.57), the average value varied during the study; however, at the end of the research, no significant weight increase or decrease was reported, as it is known that this method does not interfere with this variable. Additionally, quantitative data were satisfactory. The photogrammetry analysis showed that cryolipolysis positively affected subjects' results. CONCLUSION: A change in body contouring, especially in individuals with lower body mass, reinforces the idea that the parameters must be suitable for individual needs.

Fetal Hemodynamic Parameters in Low Risk Pregnancies: Doppler Velocimetry of Uterine, Umbilical, and Middle Cerebral Artery.

Objective. To elaborate curves of longitudinal reference intervals of pulsatility index (PI) and systolic velocity (SV) for uterine (UtA), umbilical (UA), and middle cerebral arteries (MCA), in low risk pregnancies. Methods. Doppler velocimetric measurements of PI and SV from 63 low risk pregnant women between 16 and 41 weeks of gestational age. Means (±SD) for intervals of gestational age and percentiles 5, 50, and 95 were calculated for each parameter. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) were also estimated for assessing intra- and intervariability of measurements. Results. Mean PI of UtA showed decreasing values during pregnancy, but no regular pattern was identified for mean SV. For UA, PI decreased and SV increased along gestation. MCA presented PI increasing values until 32-35 weeks. SV showed higher levels with increasing gestation. High ICC values indicated good reproducibility. Conclusions. Reference intervals for the assessment of SV and PI of UtA, UA, and MCA were established. These reference intervals showed how a normal pregnancy is expected to progress regarding these Doppler velocimetric parameters and are useful to follow high risk pregnancies. The comparison between results using different curves may provide insights about the best patterns to be used.

Efeito do extrato etanólico bruto e das frações da Hyptidendron canum (Pohl ex Benth. ) Harley em brânquias de Oreochromis niloticus L / Effect of the crude ethanol extract and fractions of Hyptidendron canum (Pohl ex Benth. ) Harley on the gills of Oreochromis niloticus L

Alguns problemas relacionados à criação intensiva de peixes estão mais evidentes devido ao aumento da aquicultura em todo o mundo, destacando-se os distúrbios nutricionais e o aumento de doenças nos sistemas de produção. Com isso as pesquisas envolvendo produtos derivados de plantas vem ganhando espaço nessa área. A Hyptidendron canum é uma planta utilizada na medicina popular como antimalárica, anti-inflamatória, antiulcerativa e anti-hepatotóxica. Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, avaliar os efeitos celulares e teciduais do extrato etanólico bruto e das frações hexano, clorofórmio e acetato de etila da H. canum nas brânquias de Oreochromis niloticus L. Para isso, o extrato etanólico e as frações foram administrados no peixe através da ração. Após 24 horas da ingestão da ração, os peixes foram sacrificados e o segundo arco branquial de cada um foi processado histologicamente e corado com tricômico de Masson e Hematoxilina e Eosina (HE). Pela análise qualitativa das brânquias ao microscópio de luz, observou-se que o extrato bruto e as três frações promoveram, em diferentes intensidades nas lamelas, descamação e destacamento do epitélio respiratório, alteração da curvatura, desorganização do eixo, hiperplasia celular do tecido epitelial interlamelar e vasodilatação nas lamelas e no vaso central do filamento. Os resultados deste experimento mostraram que o extrato etanólico bruto e as três frações de H. canum promoveram processos inflamatórios e/ou lesões sistêmicas, dose dependente para O. niloticus.

Some problems related to intensive fish farming are more evident because of the increased aquaculture worldwide, and we highlight the nutritional disorders and the increase of diseases in the production systems. Thus, research involving plant-derived products has been increasing in this area. The Hyptidendron canum is a plant used in folk medicine as an antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and antihepatotoxic agent. This study proposes to evaluate the cellular and tissue effects of the crude ethanol extract and the hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of H. canum on the gills of Oreochromis niloticus L. The ethanol extract and fractions were administered through the feed of the fish. Twenty-four hours later, the fish were sacrificed and their second gill arch dissected. Histological analyses were performed using Masson's trichrome and Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). The qualitative analysis of the material showed that the crude extract and the three fractions caused varying degrees of peeling and detachment of the lamellar respiratory epithelium, alterations in the curvature and axis of the gill, cell hyperplasia in the interlamellar epithelium and lamellar vasodilation, as well as vasodilation in the central vessel of the filament. The results of this experiment showed that the crude ethanol extract and the three fractions of H. canum promoted inflammation and/or systemic lesions, dose dependent, for O. niloticus.

Activity of cycloartane-type triterpenes and sterols isolated from Musa paradisiaca fruit peel against Leishmania infantum chagasi.

UNLABELLED: The aim of the study was to evaluate in vitro the antileishmanial activity of triterpenes and sterols isolated from Musa paradisiaca (banana) fruit peel used traditionally to treat leishmaniasis. The compounds were isolated from the ethanolic extract of the peel of the banana fruit by column chromatography. The chemical structure of compounds was determined by (1)H and (13)C - nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The cytotoxicity was measured in RAW 264.7 cells and LLC-MK2. Leishmanicidal activity against L. infantum chagasi promastigotes was performed by the MTT colorimetric method and activity against amastigotes was assayed in mammalian cells using in situ ELISA method. Five compounds were identified, consisting of three triterpenes: cycloeucalenone, 31-norcyclolaudenone and 24-methylene-cicloartanol and a mixture of two sterols: beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. With the exception of cycloeucalenone, all compounds showed statistically similar activity against promastigote to pentamidine. While, acting against amastigotes, excluding 31-norcyclolaudenone, other compounds showed activity similar to amphotericin B. All compounds showed low cytotoxicity in mammalian cells. CONCLUSION: This study partially confirms the use of Musa paradisiaca in folk medicine against leishmaniasis. Further in vivo studies are necessary to evaluate the efficacy.

A multivalent chimeric vaccine composed of Schistosoma mansoni SmTSP-2 and Sm29 was able to induce protection against infection in mice.

Schistosoma mansoni is a blood fluke parasite responsible for schistosomiasis. The best long-term strategy to control schistosomiasis is through immunization combined with drug treatment. In this study, we cloned, expressed and purified SmTSP-2 fused to the N- and C-terminal halves of Sm29 and tested these chimeras as vaccine candidates using an adjuvant approved to be used in humans. The results demonstrated that vaccination with SmTSP-2 fused to N- or C-terminus of Sm29-induced reduction in worm burden and liver pathology when compared to control animals. Additionally, we detected high levels of mouse-specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a against both chimeras and significant amounts of IFN-γ and TNF-α and no IL-4. Finally, studies with sera from patients resistant to infection and living in schistosomiasis endemic areas revealed high levels of specific IgG to both chimeras when compared to healthy individuals. In conclusion, SmTSP-2/Sm29 chimeras tested here induced partial protection against infection and might be a potential vaccine candidate.

Use of enzymes in diets with different percentages of added fat for broilers / Uso de enzimas em dietas com diferentes porcentagens de adição de gordura para frangos de corte

We assessed the extent to which the removal of fat source, and consequently its compounds, such as linoleic acid, can affect the performance of broilers. We used 600 male Cobb 500 day old chicks. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with five treatments and six replicates of 20 birds each. The treatments were: (T1) diet - positive control (PC), which met the nutritional needs; (T2) diet - negative control (CN), a reduction of 100kcal/kg and low linoleic acid content; (T3): diet - negative control reformulated for low linoleic acid content and a set of Quantum phytase XT and Econase XT 25 (BAL + QFit-Eco), (T4): diet - negative control reformulated, with the percentage of linoleic acid adjusted to an intermediate value between the value of the diet and diet CP and CN to use a set of Quantum phytase XT and XT Econase 25 (IAL + QFit-Eco) and (T5): diet - negative control reformulated, with the percentage of linoleic acid adjusted to a value similar to that of the positive control diet and joint use of Quantum phytase XT and XT Econase 25 (AAL + QFit-Eco). The joint use of Quantum Phytase and Econase promoted improvement in the performance of broilers from 1 to 21 days. The greatest weight gain was obtained with diets containing percentages of total fat and linoleic acids. Dietary supplementation with enzymes resulted in higher levels of calcium in the tibia, whatever the percentage of linoleic studied.(AU)

Avaliou-se até que ponto a retirada de fonte de gordura e, consequentemente, de seus compostos, como o ácido linoleico, pode afetar o desempenho dos frangos de corte. Foram utilizados 600 pintos de um dia, machos da linhagem Cobb 500. As aves foram distribuídas num delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos e seis repetições de 20 aves cada. Os tratamentos foram: (T1) dieta-controle positivo (CP), que atendeu às necessidades nutricionais; (T2) dieta-controle negativo (CN), com redução de 100kcal de EM/kg e baixo teor de ácido linoleico; (T3): dieta- controle negativo reformulada, para baixo teor de ácido linoleico e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (BAL+ Qfit-Eco); (T4): dieta-controle negativo reformulada, com porcentagem de ácido linoleico ajustada para um valor intermediário entre o valor da dieta CN e da dieta CP e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (IAL + Qfit-Eco) e (T5): dieta-controle negativo reformulada, com porcentagem de ácido linoleico ajustada para um valor semelhante ao da dieta-controle positivo e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (AAL+ Qfit-Eco ). O uso conjunto de Quantum Fitase e Econase promoveu melhora no desempenho dos frangos de corte de um a 21 dias. O maior ganho de peso foi obtido com dietas que continham porcentagens de gorduras totais e de ácido linoleico. A suplementação com as enzimas resultou em maior teor de cálcio nas tíbias, independentemente da porcentagem de ácido linoleico estudada.(AU)

Use of enzymes in diets with different percentages of added fat for broilers / Uso de enzimas em dietas com diferentes porcentagens de adição de gordura para frangos de corte

We assessed the extent to which the removal of fat source, and consequently its compounds, such as linoleic acid, can affect the performance of broilers. We used 600 male Cobb 500 day old chicks. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with five treatments and six replicates of 20 birds each. The treatments were: (T1) diet - positive control (PC), which met the nutritional needs; (T2) diet - negative control (CN), a reduction of 100kcal/kg and low linoleic acid content; (T3): diet - negative control reformulated for low linoleic acid content and a set of Quantum phytase XT and Econase XT 25 (BAL + QFit-Eco), (T4): diet - negative control reformulated, with the percentage of linoleic acid adjusted to an intermediate value between the value of the diet and diet CP and CN to use a set of Quantum phytase XT and XT Econase 25 (IAL + QFit-Eco) and (T5): diet - negative control reformulated, with the percentage of linoleic acid adjusted to a value similar to that of the positive control diet and joint use of Quantum phytase XT and XT Econase 25 (AAL + QFit-Eco). The joint use of Quantum Phytase and Econase promoted improvement in the performance of broilers from 1 to 21 days. The greatest weight gain was obtained with diets containing percentages of total fat and linoleic acids. Dietary supplementation with enzymes resulted in higher levels of calcium in the tibia, whatever the percentage of linoleic studied.

Avaliou-se até que ponto a retirada de fonte de gordura e, consequentemente, de seus compostos, como o ácido linoleico, pode afetar o desempenho dos frangos de corte. Foram utilizados 600 pintos de um dia, machos da linhagem Cobb 500. As aves foram distribuídas num delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos e seis repetições de 20 aves cada. Os tratamentos foram: (T1) dieta-controle positivo (CP), que atendeu às necessidades nutricionais; (T2) dieta-controle negativo (CN), com redução de 100kcal de EM/kg e baixo teor de ácido linoleico; (T3): dieta- controle negativo reformulada, para baixo teor de ácido linoleico e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (BAL+ Qfit-Eco); (T4): dieta-controle negativo reformulada, com porcentagem de ácido linoleico ajustada para um valor intermediário entre o valor da dieta CN e da dieta CP e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (IAL + Qfit-Eco) e (T5): dieta-controle negativo reformulada, com porcentagem de ácido linoleico ajustada para um valor semelhante ao da dieta-controle positivo e com uso conjunto de Quantum fitase XT e Econase XT 25 (AAL+ Qfit-Eco ). O uso conjunto de Quantum Fitase e Econase promoveu melhora no desempenho dos frangos de corte de um a 21 dias. O maior ganho de peso foi obtido com dietas que continham porcentagens de gorduras totais e de ácido linoleico. A suplementação com as enzimas resultou em maior teor de cálcio nas tíbias, independentemente da porcentagem de ácido linoleico estudada.

Correlação entre as atividades antiradical, antiacetilcolinesterase e teor de fenóis totais de extratos de plantas medicinais de farmácias vivas / Correlation between the anti-radical, anti-acetylcholinesterase activities and phenolic content of some extracts of live herbal pharmacies in the Northeast of Brazil

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a correlação entre o conteúdo de fenóis de extratos de 18 plantas medicinais comuns nas Farmácias Vivas com a atividade sequestradora do radical livre DPPH e com a inibição da enzima acetilcolinesterase. Maiores conteúdos de fenóis totais foram encontrados nas plantas: Eugenia uniflora, Lippia alba, Lippia microphylla, Mentha x villosa, Ocimum gratissimum e Ocimum selloi. As espécies que apresentaram maior atividade antioxidante, semelhante a quercetina, foram: Spondias mombim, Malphigia glabra, L. alba e Croton zenhtneri,. As plantas Cecropia pachystachia, L. alba, L. microphylla, M. glabra, O. gratissimum e Plectranthus ornatus mostraram maiores halos de inibição da enzima acetilcolinesterase. Combinando as duas ações, as plantas mais ativas foram a M. glabra e a L. alba e somente a segunda correlaciona-se diretamente com o maior teor de fenóis totais. Através deste estudo, M. glabra e L. alba foram consideradas as plantas mais promissoras para estudos subsequentes a fim de encontrar novos compostos com ação potencial contra a doença de Alzheimer.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the phenolic content of 18 medicinal plant extracts of "Live Pharmacies" and correlate them with their free radical scavenging activity and inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. Higher amounts of phenolic compounds were found in the following plants: Eugenia uniflora, Lippia alba, Lippia microphylla, Mentha x villosa, Ocimum gatissimum, and Ocimum selloi. The species that showed higher anti-radical activity were Croton zenhtneri, Lippia alba, Malphigia glabra, and Spondias mombim, similar to quercetin. The plants Cecropia pachystachia, L. alba, L. microplylla, M. glabra, O. gratissimum, and Plectranthus ornatus showed larger inhibition zones of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. By correlating the two actions L. alba and M. glabra are common as more active to both tests and only L. alba correlates directly with the phenolic content. Through this study, L. alba and M. glabra are considered the most promising plants for further studies to find new compounds with potential action against Alzheimer's disease.