Cytotoxic effect of Vernonanthura polyanthes leaves aqueous extracts / Efeito citotóxico do extrato aquoso de folhas de Vernonanthura polyanthes

Abstract Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularly known as assa-peixe, is a medicinal plant that has been widely used by Brazilian Cerrado population for treatment of diseases without a detailed evaluation of their effectiveness, toxicity, and proper dosage. Thus, more studies investigating the safety of V. polyanthes aqueous extract before the use are needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract using the Artemia salina and Allium cepa assays. For the A. salina assay, three groups of 10 larvae were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at the concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/ml. For the A. cepa assay, 5 onion bulbs were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at 10, 20, and 40 mg/ml, and then submitted to macroscopic and microscopic analysis. As result it was identified a toxicity and cytotoxicity of V. polyanthes dependent on the extract concentration. The A. salina assay suggests that the concentration of 24 mg/ml of the V. polyanthes extract is able to kill 50% of naupllis; while the A. cepa assay suggests that V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract is toxic at concentrations higher than 20 mg/ml; however the cytotoxic effect in A. cepa root cells was observed at 40 mg/ml of the extract. It is important to say that the V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract concentration commonly used in popular medicine is 20 mg/ml. Thus, the popular concentration used is very close to toxicity limit in A. salina model (24 mg/ml) and is the concentration which showed toxic effect in A. cepa root cells (20 mg/ml). No genotoxic activity of V. polyantes leaves aqueous extract was observed in the conditions used in this study. Because of the antiproliferative action and no genotoxic activity, V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract may present compounds with potential use for human medicine. However more detailed studies need to be performed to confirm this potential.

Resumo Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularmente conhecida como assa-peixe, é uma planta medicinal amplamente utilizada pela população brasileira do Cerrado para o tratamento doenças, sem uma avaliação detalhada de sua eficácia, toxicidade e dosagem adequada. Dessa forma, são necessários estudos para investigar a segurança do uso do extrato aquoso de V. polyanthes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a toxicidade, citotoxicidade e genotoxicidade do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes utilizando os ensaios de Artemia salina e Allium cepa. Para o ensaio de A. salina, três grupos de 10 larvas foram expostos ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 5, 10, 20, 40 e 80 mg/ml. Para o ensaio de A. cepa, 5 bulbos de cebola foram expostas ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 10, 20 e 40 mg/ml, e então submetidos a análise macroscópica e microscópica. O ensaio de A. salina sugere que a concentração de 24 mg/ml do extrato de V. polyanthes é capaz de matar 50% dos náuplios; enquanto o ensaio de A. cepa sugere que o extrato aquoso das folhas de V. polyanthes é tóxico em concentrações superiores a 20 mg/ml. O efeito citotóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa foi observado apenas na concentração de 40 mg/ml. É importante dizer que a concentração de extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes comumente usada na medicina popular é de 20 mg/ml. Assim, a concentração popular utilizada está muito próxima do limite de toxicidade no modelo de A. salina (24 mg/ml) e é a mesma concentração que apresentou efeito tóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa (20 mg/ml). Não foi observada atividade genotóxica do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyantes nas condições utilizadas neste trabalho. Por causa da ação antiproliferativa e ausência de atividade genotóxica, o extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes pode ser uma boa fonte natural de compostos antitumorais e pode apresentar potencial para uso na medicina. No entanto, estudos mais detalhados precisam ser realizados para confirmar esse potencial.

Cytotoxic effect of Vernonanthura polyanthes leaves aqueous extracts.

Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularly known as assa-peixe, is a medicinal plant that has been widely used by Brazilian Cerrado population for treatment of diseases without a detailed evaluation of their effectiveness, toxicity, and proper dosage. Thus, more studies investigating the safety of V. polyanthes aqueous extract before the use are needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract using the Artemia salina and Allium cepa assays. For the A. salina assay, three groups of 10 larvae were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at the concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/ml. For the A. cepa assay, 5 onion bulbs were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at 10, 20, and 40 mg/ml, and then submitted to macroscopic and microscopic analysis. As result it was identified a toxicity and cytotoxicity of V. polyanthes dependent on the extract concentration. The A. salina assay suggests that the concentration of 24 mg/ml of the V. polyanthes extract is able to kill 50% of naupllis; while the A. cepa assay suggests that V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract is toxic at concentrations higher than 20 mg/ml; however the cytotoxic effect in A. cepa root cells was observed at 40 mg/ml of the extract. It is important to say that the V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract concentration commonly used in popular medicine is 20 mg/ml. Thus, the popular concentration used is very close to toxicity limit in A. salina model (24 mg/ml) and is the concentration which showed toxic effect in A. cepa root cells (20 mg/ml). No genotoxic activity of V. polyantes leaves aqueous extract was observed in the conditions used in this study. Because of the antiproliferative action and no genotoxic activity, V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract may present compounds with potential use for human medicine. However more detailed studies need to be performed to confirm this potential.

Detection of the mecA gene in Staphylococcus spp. isolated from the nasal cavity of pigs - Preliminary data / [Detecção do gene mecA em Staphylococcus spp. isolados da cavidade nasal de suínos - dados preliminares]

O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar a caracterização genética de Staphylococcus spp. resistentes a meticilina isolados de suínos. Foram coletadas 30 amostras de swab nasal de suínos, abatidos em um frigorífico com Serviço de Inspeção Federal. Os isolados foram submetidos a análises macro e microscópicas que, em seguida, para detectar a resistência bacteriana, foram submetidos a ensaios fenotípicos da sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos. Posteriormente, as amostras resistentes a oxacilina, foram submetidas à reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR) para verificar a presença do gene mecA. Das 30 amostras analisadas, foram isolados 12 (40%) Staphylococcus spp. coagulase positiva, e 18 (60%) coagulase negativa, e, dentre os isolados, 26 (86,66%) foram resistentes a oxacilina sendo possível detectar o gene mecA em seis (23%) amostras. Este estudo evidencia a presença de genes de resistência em microrganismos comuns a microbiota de animais de produção que podem ser transmitidos ao homem. Além de chamar a atenção para a frequência e quantidade de antimicrobianos aos quais estes animais são expostos durante toda sua vida, podendo ser considerado um problema para a saúde única.(AU)

Circle of Willis abnormalities and their clinical importance in ageing brains: A cadaveric anatomical and pathological study.

The circle of Willis (CW) located at the base of the brain forms an important collateral network to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion, especially in clinical situations requiring compensatory changes in blood flow. Morphopathological changes in the CW may relate to the severity of the symptoms of certain neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate the CW abnormalities and their clinical importance in ageing brains. The CW was examined macroscopically in 73 formalin-fixed samples to determine the degree of stenosis of each CW component, atherosclerosis of the CW, hypoplasia (threshold diameter < 1 mm), anatomical variations and aneurysms. Age-related neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular pathologies were screened using immunohistopathological techniques on specific neuroanatomical regions based on standard guidelines. The majority of the elderly brains -93 % (68/73) presented at least a single hypoplastic CW component at death. Anatomical variations were mostly identified in communicating arteries, followed by proximal posterior and anterior cerebral arteries. Arterial bifurcations were found to be the predominant sites for cerebral aneurysms. More than 90 % of the elderly brains presented CW atherosclerosis at death. CW abnormalities did not show any strong associations with neurodegenerative pathologies except for an "at risk" significant association observed between Braak's neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) stages 1-VI and CW atherosclerosis grades ≥ mild (p = 0.05). However, a significant association was observed between microscopic infarcts in deep white matter and hypoplasia in communicating arteries with Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05). Overall, CW abnormalities were predominant in the ageing brains, however their relationships to the occurrence and severity of the symptoms of neurodegenerative pathologies were found to be low.

Supplementation with long-acting progesterone in early diestrus in beef cattle: II. Relationships between follicle growth dynamics and luteolysis.

The aims were to characterize follicular dynamics in response to supplemental progesterone (P4) and to investigate the relationships between follicular growth and onset of luteolysis in P4-treated cows, submitted or not to artificial insemination (AI). Nonsuckled beef cows detected in estrus were assigned to receive AI or to remain non-AI. Three days after ovulation (ie, D3), AI cows were injected with 150 mg of long-acting P4 (AI + injectable P4 formulation [iP4]; n = 22), and the non-AI cows were assigned to receive 150 mg iP4 (n = 19) or saline (control, n = 19). Between D3 and D21, growth dynamics of the dominant follicles (DFs) was monitored by ultrasonography. Plasma P4 concentrations were measured every other day from D9 to D19. Pregnancy status (ie, P: pregnant and NP: nonpregnant) was examined by ultrasound on D28 to D32. Injectable P4 formulation supplementation decreased average maximum diameter of first-wave DF (DF1). Neither day of emergence of DF2 or DF3 nor the proportion of two- or three-wave cycles were altered by supplemental P4. Daily mean diameter of DF2 and DF3 was also similar between control and iP4 groups. Consistently, daily mean diameter of DF1 in iP4-treated cows was smaller for cows that underwent luteolysis by D15 compared to a later onset. Progesterone concentrations between D9 and D19 decreased earliest in the iP4 group, latest in the control group and was intermediate for the NP-AI + iP4 group. In addition, three-wave cycles presented a delayed decrease on plasma P4 concentrations than two-wave cycles. Further analysis revealed that on two-wave cycles, P4 concentrations on D15 were lowest in the iP4 and NP-AI + iP4 animals compared to the control and P-AI + iP4 groups. Conversely, for three-wave cycles, on D15, P-AI + iP4, NP-AI + iP4, and controls had greater P4 concentrations than the iP4 group. In summary, our data indicate that impairment of first follicular growth was associated with P4-induced shortened luteal lifespan (D14-D15) and that three-wave cycles after AI can be more supportive for pregnancy maintenance in P4-treated cows. We speculate that such conditions play a critical role in the embryonic ability to inhibit iP4-induced early luteolysis reported in part I of this series.

Teneurin-2 presence in rat and human odontoblasts.

Teneurins are transmembrane proteins consisting of four paralogues (Ten-1-4), notably expressed in the central nervous system during development. All teneurins contain a bioactive peptide in their carboxyl terminal named teneurin C-terminal associated peptide (TCAP). The present study analyzed the detailed distribution of teneurin-2-like immunoreactive (Ten-2-LI) cells in developing and mature rat molar teeth, as well as in mature human dental pulps. Ten-2 and TCAP-2 genic expressions were also evaluated in rat and human dental pulps. Finally, Ten-2-LI cells were analyzed during the repair process after dentin-pulp complex injury in rat lower molar teeth. For this, histological sections of rat molar teeth and human dental pulps were submitted to immunohistochemical techniques, while total RNA from developing rat teeth and mature human dental pulps were submitted to conventional RT-PCR. Ten-2-LI cells were evident in the initial bell stage of rat molar teeth development, especially in ectomesenchymal cells of the dental papilla. Ten-2-LI odontoblasts showed strong immunoreactivity in rat and human mature teeth. Ten-2 and TCAP-2 genic expressions were confirmed in rat and human dental pulps. Dentin-pulp complex injury resulted in a decrease of Ten-2-LI odontoblasts after traumatic injury. Interestingly, Ten-2-LI cells were also evident in the pulp cell-rich zone in all postoperative days. In conclusion, Ten-2-LI presence in rat and human odontoblasts was demonstrated for the first time and Ten-2/TCAP-2 genic expressions were confirmed in rat and human dental pulps. Furthermore, it was revealed that Ten-2-LI rat odontoblasts can be modulated during the regenerative process.

Cytotoxic effect of Vernonanthura polyanthes leaves aqueous extracts

Abstract Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularly known as assa-peixe, is a medicinal plant that has been widely used by Brazilian Cerrado population for treatment of diseases without a detailed evaluation of their effectiveness, toxicity, and proper dosage. Thus, more studies investigating the safety of V. polyanthes aqueous extract before the use are needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract using the Artemia salina and Allium cepa assays. For the A. salina assay, three groups of 10 larvae were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at the concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/ml. For the A. cepa assay, 5 onion bulbs were exposed to V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract at 10, 20, and 40 mg/ml, and then submitted to macroscopic and microscopic analysis. As result it was identified a toxicity and cytotoxicity of V. polyanthes dependent on the extract concentration. The A. salina assay suggests that the concentration of 24 mg/ml of the V. polyanthes extract is able to kill 50% of naupllis; while the A. cepa assay suggests that V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract is toxic at concentrations higher than 20 mg/ml; however the cytotoxic effect in A. cepa root cells was observed at 40 mg/ml of the extract. It is important to say that the V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract concentration commonly used in popular medicine is 20 mg/ml. Thus, the popular concentration used is very close to toxicity limit in A. salina model (24 mg/ml) and is the concentration which showed toxic effect in A. cepa root cells (20 mg/ml). No genotoxic activity of V. polyantes leaves aqueous extract was observed in the conditions used in this study. Because of the antiproliferative action and no genotoxic activity, V. polyanthes leaves aqueous extract may present compounds with potential use for human medicine. However more detailed studies need to be performed to confirm this potential.

Resumo Vernonanthura polyanthes, popularmente conhecida como assa-peixe, é uma planta medicinal amplamente utilizada pela população brasileira do Cerrado para o tratamento doenças, sem uma avaliação detalhada de sua eficácia, toxicidade e dosagem adequada. Dessa forma, são necessários estudos para investigar a segurança do uso do extrato aquoso de V. polyanthes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a toxicidade, citotoxicidade e genotoxicidade do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes utilizando os ensaios de Artemia salina e Allium cepa. Para o ensaio de A. salina, três grupos de 10 larvas foram expostos ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 5, 10, 20, 40 e 80 mg/ml. Para o ensaio de A. cepa, 5 bulbos de cebola foram expostas ao extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes nas concentrações de 10, 20 e 40 mg/ml, e então submetidos a análise macroscópica e microscópica. O ensaio de A. salina sugere que a concentração de 24 mg/ml do extrato de V. polyanthes é capaz de matar 50% dos náuplios; enquanto o ensaio de A. cepa sugere que o extrato aquoso das folhas de V. polyanthes é tóxico em concentrações superiores a 20 mg/ml. O efeito citotóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa foi observado apenas na concentração de 40 mg/ml. É importante dizer que a concentração de extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes comumente usada na medicina popular é de 20 mg/ml. Assim, a concentração popular utilizada está muito próxima do limite de toxicidade no modelo de A. salina (24 mg/ml) e é a mesma concentração que apresentou efeito tóxico nas células da raiz de A. cepa (20 mg/ml). Não foi observada atividade genotóxica do extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyantes nas condições utilizadas neste trabalho. Por causa da ação antiproliferativa e ausência de atividade genotóxica, o extrato aquoso de folhas de V. polyanthes pode ser uma boa fonte natural de compostos antitumorais e pode apresentar potencial para uso na medicina. No entanto, estudos mais detalhados precisam ser realizados para confirmar esse potencial.

Neurochemistry study of spinal cord in non-human primate (Sapajus spp.).

The spinal cord is involved in local, ascending and descending neural pathways. Few studies analyzed the distribution of neuromediators in the laminae of non-human primates along all segments. The present study described the classic neuromediators in the spinal cord of the non-human primate Sapajus spp. through histochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen phosphate-diaphorase (NADPH-d) method showed neuronal somata in the intermediolateral column (IML), central cervical nucleus (CCN), laminae I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and X, besides dense presence of nerve fibers in laminae II and IX. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was evident in the neuronal somata in laminae V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, CCN, IML and in the Clarke's column (CC). Immunohistochemistry data revealed neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) immunoreactivity  in neuronal somata and in fibers of laminae I, II, III, VII, VIII, X and IML; choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in neuronal somata and in fibers of laminae VII, VIII and IX; calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) was noticed in neuronal somata of lamina IX and in nerve fibers of laminae I, II, III, IV, V, VI and VII; substance P (SP) in nerve fibers of laminae I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, CCN, CC and IML; serotonin (5-HT) and vesicular glutamate transporter-1 (VGLUT1) was noticed in nerve fibers of all laminae;  somatostatin (SOM) in neuronal somata of laminae III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX and nerve fibers in laminae I, II, V, VI, VII, X and IML; calbindin (Cb) in neuronal somata of laminae I, II, VI, VII, IX and X; parvalbumin (PV) was found in neuronal somata and in nerve fibers of laminae III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX and CC; finally, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) was present in neuronal somata of laminae V, VI, VII, VIII, IX and X. This study revealed interesting results concerning the chemoarchitecture of the Sapajus spp. spinal cord with a distribution pattern mostly similar to other mammals. The data corroborate the result described in literature, except for some differences in CGRP, SP, Cb, PV and GABA immunoreactivities present in neuronal somata and in nerve fibers. This could suggest certain specificity for the neurochemistry distribution in this non-human primate species, besides adding relevant data to support further studies related to processes involving spinal cord components.

Mice with Deletion of Neuromedin B Receptor Exhibit Decreased Oral Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Release.

Neuromedin B (NB) and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) are bombesin-like peptides, found in the gastrointestinal tube and pancreas, among other tissues. Consistent data proposed that GRP stimulates insulin secretion, acting directly in pancreatic cells or in the release of gastrointestinal hormones that are incretins. However, the role of NB remains unclear. We examined the glucose homeostasis in mice with deletion of NB receptor (NBR-KO). Female NBR-KO exhibited similar fasting basal glucose with lower insulinemia (48.4%) and lower homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (50.5%) than wild type (WT). Additionally, they were more tolerant to oral glucose, demonstrated by a decrease in the area under the glucose curve (18%). In addition, 15 min after an oral glucose load, female and male NBR-KO showed lower insulin serum levels (45.6 and 26.8%, respectively) than WT, even though blood glucose rose to similar levels in both groups. Single injection of NB, one hour before the oral glucose administration, tended to induce higher serum insulin in WT (28.9%, p=0.3), however the same did not occur in NBR-KO. They showed no changes in fasting insulin content in pancreatic islets by immunohistochemistry, however, the fasting serum levels of glucagon-like peptide, a potent incretin, exhibited a strong trend to reduction (40%, p=0.07). Collectively, mice with deletion of NB receptor have lower insulinemia, especially in response to oral glucose, and females also exhibited a better glucose tolerance, suggesting the involvement of NB and its receptor in regulation of insulin secretion induced by incretins, and also, in insulin sensitivity.

Medidas comparativas do padrão morfométrico e perfil energético de éguas crioulas no terço final da gestação, com diferentes escores corporais / Comparative measurements of the morphometric pattern and energy profile of crioula mares in the final third of gestation, with different body condition scores

O objetivo deste estudo é comparar e descrever medidas morfométricas e perfil energético de éguas da raça Crioula no terço final da gestação. Foram utilizadas vinte éguas gestantes, divididas em 2 grupos conforme o escore corporal (BCS); o GrN (n=10), grupo de éguas com BCS 5 ou moderado, e GrO (n=10), grupo de éguas obesas ou BCS 9, analisadas conforme o mês de gestação (8º, 9º, 10º e 11º). Foram realizadas coletas de sangue e avaliações morfométricas mensais do peso corporal (PC), perímetro torácico (PT), perímetro abdominal (PA), altura da crista do pescoço (AC), espessura de gordura subcutânea na base da cauda (EGBC) e espessura de gordura retroperitoneal (EGRP). Para avaliar o perfil energético, foram mensurados os níveis séricos de triglicerídeos (TAG), ácidos graxos não esterificados (NEFA), Leptina (LEP) e Adiponectina. Os resultados das mensurações analisadas demonstraram no GrN incremento (P<0,05) nas variáveis PC, PT, PA e NEFA do 8º para o 9º mês de gestação. Porém, na variável EGBC, o aumento (P<0,01) foi observado entre o 8º e o 11º mês avaliado. No GrO, o PA demonstrou incremento (P<0,01) entre o 8º e o 11º mês de gestação, e a LEP apresentou aumento (P<0,05) entre o 10º e o 11º mês. Quando os dois grupos foram comparados, as variáveis PC, PT, EGBC e EGRP apresentaram diferença (P<0,05) em todos os meses avaliados. Na análise de correlação, o BCS associou-se com o PC (r=0,691; P<0,0001), PT (r=0,705; P<0,0001), EGBC (r=0,701; P<0,0001), EGRP (r=0,627; P<0,0001), níveis séricos de LEP (r=0,426; P<0,0001) e Adiponectina (r=0,217; P<0,05). Dessa forma, pode-se afirmar que a gordura corporal aumentou progressivamente nas éguas do GrN, diferentemente do observado no GrO. Através dos métodos utilizados neste trabalho, torna-se possível a avaliação prática da morfometria das éguas da raça Crioula no terço final da gestação, possibilitando de forma objetiva a identificação de indivíduos obesos.

The aim of this study was to compare and describe morphometric measurements and energy profile of the Crioula breed mares at the end of gestation. Twenty pregnant mares were used and separated into 2 groups according to body condition score (BCS). The GrN (n= 10) group of mares with BCS 5 or moderate and GrO (n = 10) group of obese mares or BCS 9 were analyzed according to the month of pregnancy (8th, 9th, 10th and 11th). Blood samples and monthly morphometric evaluation were performed for body weight (PC), heart girth (PT), waist circumference (PA), height of the crest of the neck (AC), thickness subcutaneous fat on the base of the tail (EGBC) and retroperitoneal (EGRP). To evaluate the energy profile serum levels of triglycerides (TAG), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), leptin (LEP) and adiponectin were measured. The results of the analyzed measurements showed an increase in GrN (P<0.05) in the PC, PT, PA and NEFA variables between the 8th and 9th month of pregnancy. Although there was an increase (P<0.01) between the 8th and 11th month of pregnancy in the EGBC variable, in GrO the PA was increased (P<0.01) between the 8th and 11th month of pregnancy and the LEP showed an increase (P<0.05) between the 10th and 11th month. When both groups were compared, the variables PC, PT, EGBC and EGRP showed differences (P<0.05) in all months evaluated. In the correlation the BCS was associated with PC (r=0.691, P<0.0001), PT (r=0.705, P<0.0001), EGBC (r=0.701, P<0.0001), EGRP (r=0.627, P<0.0001), serum leptin levels (r=0.426, P<0.0001) and adiponectin (r=0.217, P<0.05). Thus, it can be stated that the body fat increased progressively in mares GrN, different from that observed in GrO. Therefore, by the methods used in this study, the morphometry practical evaluation of the Crioula breed mares in the last third of gestation became possible, allowing an objective way to identify obese individuals.

Qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de erva-doce (Foeniculum vulgare Mill. ) armazenadas / Physiological and sanitary quality of fennel seeds stored

A incidência de fungos em sementes interfere negativamente o seu potencial fisiológico, podendo ter início no campo, durante o armazenamento ou na pós-colheita. Desta forma o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de erva-doce armazenadas em diferentes embalagens. O trabalho foi realizado no Laboratório de análise de sementes da UFPB, em Areia-PB. As sementes foram colhidas em plantas tratadas e não tratadas com inseticida Actara, beneficiadas e acondicionadas nas embalagens papel alumínio, saco plástico e vidro. Em seguida, armazenadas em câmara fria durante 315 dias. Inicialmente e a cada 45 dias foram realizados as seguintes determinações e testes: teor de água, emergência de plântulas, primeira contagem de emergência, índice de velocidade de emergência, comprimento e massa seca das plântulas e sanidade das sementes pelo método "blotter-test". Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, os tratamentos foram distribuídos em fatorial 2 x 3 x 8 (com e sem inseticida, 3 embalagens e 8 períodos de avaliação). Os resultados indicam que a qualidade fisiológica das sementes de erva-doce foi principalmente afetada pelo fungo Alternaria sp., ocorrendo a manutenção da viabilidade das sementes por aproximadamente 95 dias na embalagem de saco plástico; a aplicação do inseticida Actara mantém a qualidade fisiológica das sementes de Foeniculum vulgare no armazenamento.

The fungi incidence in seeds affect negatively their physiological potential may begin in the field, during storage or in post-harvest. The objective was to evaluate the sanitary quality of fennel seeds stored in packagings differents. The study was conducted in laboratory analysis of seeds of UFPB, in Areia-PB. Seeds were harvested in experimental field with plants treated and untreated with insecticide Actara, processed and packed in aluminum foil, plastic bag and glass and stored in cold chamber during 315 days. Initially and every 45 days were performed the following tests and determinations: water content, seedling emergence, first count of emergency, emergency speed index, length and seedling dry mass and seed health by the "blotter-test." We used a completely randomized design with four replications, the treatments were distributed in a factorial 2 x 3 x 8. The results indicated that the physiological quality of fennel seeds was negatively affected by the fungus Alternaria sp., occurring at maintaining the viability of seeds for about 95 days in the plastic bag packaging; the application of the insecticide Actara keeps the physiological quality of seeds of Foeniculum vulgare in storage.

Conservação e fisiologia pós-colheita de folhas de Capuchinha (Tropaeolum majus L. ) / Conservation and postharvest physiology of leaves Capuchin (Tropaeolum majus L. )

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a vida útil pós-colheita de folhas de Capuchinha (Tropaeolum majus L.) embaladas com filme PVC de baixa densidade e proteínas nas concentrações de 1, 3 e 5 por cento. O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica do Centro de Ciências Agrárias (CCA) da Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB) Areia - PB. As folhas de Capuchinha colhidas no CCA foram levadas imediatamente ao Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica, para pré-seleção, desinfestação em água clorada contendo 100mg.L-1 de cloro ativo, e seca à temperatura ambiente. Após o controle fitossanitário, as folhas foram submetidas aos seguintes tratamentos: solução de proteína nas concentrações de 1, 3 e 5 por cento, filme PVC de baixa densidade e a testemunha sem recobrimento. As folhas foram armazenadas durante cinco dias em temperatura média de 26 - 29ºC e umidade relativa média de 59,5 - 71,5 por cento e outra parte foi armazenada em câmara fria com temperatura média de 12 ± 0,5 ºC e umidade relativa média de 95 ± 3 por cento. Durante o período de armazenamento as folhas foram avaliadas quanto à perda de massa fresca, determinação de ácido ascórbico, sólidos solúveis e acidez titulável. O armazenamento durante quatro dias sob refrigeração a temperatura média de 12 ± 0,5ºC associada ao recobrimento com filme PVC mostrou melhores resultados na conservação da vida útil pós-colheita das folhas de Capuchinha.

This study aimed to evaluate the shelf-life of Capuchin sheets (Tropaeolum majus L.) packed with plastic wrap and low density proteins at concentrations of 1, 3 and 5 percent. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica and the Centro de Ciências Agrárias (CCA) of the Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB) Areia - PB. Capuchin leaves harvested in the CCA were taken immediately to the Laboratório de Química e Bioquímica, for pre-screening, disinfection in chlorinated water containing 100mg.L-1 of active chlorine, and dried at room temperature. After spraying, the leaves were treated as follows: protein solution at concentrations of 1, 3 and 5 percent, low density plastic wrap and uncoated witness. The leaves were stored for five days in average temperature from 26 to 29ºC and relative humidity from 59.5 to 71.5 percent and another part was stored in cold with average temperature of 12 ± 0.5ºC and relative humidity of 95 ± 3 percent. During the storage period the leaves were evaluated for weight loss, determination of ascorbic acid, soluble solids and titratable acidity. Storage for four days under refrigeration at an average temperature of 12 ± 0.5ºC associated with PVC film coating showed better results in the conservation of shelf-life of Capuchin sheets.

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL): a patient from Sri Lanka.

We report the first patient from Sri Lanka (the third patient from the Indian subcontinent) with cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). The patient experienced a young onset familial stroke with an 856T>G missense mutation in exon 5 of the NOTCH3 gene resulting in a C260G mutation in the sixth epidermal growth factor-like repeat. We believe this is the first reported Sri Lankan patient. CADASIL is probably underdiagnosed in the region.

Variation in the origin of the posterior cerebral artery in adult Sri Lankans.

BACKGROUND: The degree of contribution from the vertebro-basilar and carotid systems to the origin of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) is of clinico-anatomical importance. Three configurations in the bifurcation of the posterior communicating artery (PcomA) have been described, foetal, transitional and adult. OBJECTIVE: To examine the extent of contribution from the vertebro-basilar and carotid systems to the origin of the PCA in adult autopsy brains in subjects who had died of causes unrelated to the brain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The external diameter of the PcomA, pre communicating part (P1) and the post communicating part (P2) of PCA in 225 normal Sri Lankan adult cadaver brains was measured using a calibrated grid. RESULTS: The adult configuration was present in 220 (93.3%); (bilaterally in 200 (88.8%), and unilaterally in 20 (8.8%) ten on each side. Foetal configuration was seen in 17 (4.4%); bilaterally in 3 (1.3%), and unilaterally in 14 (6%) 8 on the left and 6 on the right. Transitional configuration was seen in 8 (2.2%); bilaterally in 2 (0.9%), and unilaterally in 6 (2.5%) 2 on the left and 4 on the right. CONCLUSION: This study reveals that the internal carotid artery (ICA) provided the major supply to the PCA in 4.4% of foetal and 2.2% of transitional configurations. The adult configuration was present in 220 (93.3%), the highest recorded in the literature. This finding may be of relevance to vertebrobasilar ischaemia and infarcts in the territory of the PCA.

Apoptosis in subicular neurons: A comparison between suicide and Addison's disease.

BACKGROUND: Stress and depression shows possible links to neuronal death in hippocampus. Subiculum plays a prominent role in limbic stress integration and direct effect of corticosteroids on subicular neurons needs to be defined to assess its subsequent impact on hippocampal plasticity. AIM: This study was intended to assess apoptosis in subicular neurons of a young depressed suicide victim, where presumably stress induced excess of corticosteroids and a case of young Addison's disease with low level of corticosteroids. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Both bilateral adrenal glands (Addison's) and subiculum (both cases) were initially stained with hematoxylin and eosin; subicular neurons of both cases were examined for the degree of apoptosis using 'ApopTag Kit'. Apoptotic cell counts were expressed as average number of labeled cells/mm 2 and the results were analysed statistically using a non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. RESULT: Apoptotic neurons were detected in the subicular region of both suicide and Addison victims, and it is statistically significant in both right and left between the cases (P < 0.05). In suicide victim, the neuronal apoptosis is considerably significant between the two hemispheres (P < 0.05), in contrast to Addison disease where the number of neuronal cell death between right and left was statistically insignificant (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The present study confirms the vulnerability of the subicular neurons to apoptosis, possibly due to corticosteroids in both ends of spectrum.

Fraqueza muscular esquelética e intolerância ao exercício em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica / Skeletal muscle weakness and exercise intolerance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade funcional e o desempenho da musculatura respiratória e periférica e relacioná-los com o estado nutricional e volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 12 pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) moderada a grave (70±7 anos, VEF1 de 52±17 por cento previsto, índice de massa corpórea (IMC) de 23±4kg/m²) e sete indivíduos saudáveis (69±8 anos, VEF1 de 127±12 por cento previsto, IMC de 27±3kg/m²). Todos realizaram análise da composição corporal, medida da força muscular respiratória (pressão inspiratória máxima, PImax, e pressão expiratória máxima, PEmax), teste de exercício cardiorrespiratório (TECR), avaliação da força de preensão palmar, pico de torque e trabalho total ou endurance do quadríceps femoral. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes com DPOC tiveram valores reduzidos do índice de massa magra corpórea (IMMC) (18±1 versus 21±1kg/m², p<0,05), da carga máxima atingida no TECR (60±20 versus 102±18watts, p<0,01), da PImax (58±19 versus 87±21cmH2O, p<0,05), da força de preensão palmar (38±6 versus 47±5kg, p<0,05), do pico de torque (103±21 versus 138±18Nm, p<0,05) e do trabalho total do quadríceps femoral (1570±395 versus 2333±568J, p<0,05) quando comparado com o grupo controle (teste t de Student não pareado). Não houve correlação entre VEF1 e as variáveis estudadas; o IMMC correlacionou-se com o trabalho total do quadríceps (Pearson, r=0,6290, p<0,05). CONCLUSÕES: Estes resultados indicam que os pacientes com DPOC apresentam fraqueza muscular inspiratória e periférica e menor capacidade funcional, quando comparados com o grupo saudável. Além disso, sugere que o grau de obstrução ao fluxo aéreo não é um bom preditor para quantificar as debilidades nutricionais e musculares dos pacientes com DPOC.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional capacity and the performance of respiratory and quadriceps muscles in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and relate them to nutritional status and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1). METHODS: Twelve patients with moderate COPD (70±7 years, FEV1 52±17 percent predicted, body mass index (BMI) 23±4kg/m²) and seven healthy volunteers (69±8 years, FEV1 127±12 percent predicted, BMI 27±3kg/m²) were evaluated. All of them underwent body composition analysis, measurement of respiratory muscle strength (maximum inspiratory pressure, MIP, and maximum expiratory pressure, MEP), cardiorespiratory exercise test (CET) and evaluation of palm grip strength, peak torque and total work or endurance of the quadriceps femoris. RESULTS: The patients with COPD had lower values for the free-fat mass (FFM) index (18±1 versus 21±1kg/m², p<0.05), maximum load attained in the CET (60±20 versus 102±18 watts, p<0.01), MIP (58±19 versus 87±21cmH2O, p<0.05), palm grip strength (38±6 versus 47±5kg, p<0.05), peak torque (103±21 versus 138±18Nm, p<0.05) and total work of the quadriceps femoris (1570±395 versus 2333±568J, p<0.05) when compared with the control group (independent Student's t test). There was no correlation between FEV1 and the variables studied, while the FFM correlated with the total work of the quadriceps (Pearson, r=0.6290, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that patients with COPD show weakness of the inspiratory and quadriceps muscles and lower functional capacity, when compared with a healthy group. Moreover, they suggest that the degree of airflow obstruction is not a good predictor for quantifying the nutritional and muscle impairments in patients with COPD.

Streptomyces drozdowiczii sp. nov., a novel cellulolytic streptomycete from soil in Brazil.

An actinomycete strain, isolated from a Mata Atlântica soil sample, showing cellulolytic activity was subjected to polyphasic taxonomic characterization to determine its identity. Strain M7aT presented morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics consistent with its assignment to the genus Streptomyces. Phylogenetic analysis of its 16S rDNA sequence revealed that the strain differed from described streptomycetes available in the public databases; the most closely related species was Streptomyces laceyi, with 98.4% nucleotide similarity. It also differed from other cellulolytic strains in its phenotypic characteristics. It is therefore proposed that strain M7aT, a cellulolytic strain with biotechnological potential, represents a novel species, named Streptomyces drozdowiczii sp. nov. The type strain is M7aT (=CBMAI 0498T=CIP 107837T=NRRL B-24297T).

Phenotypic and genetic diversity among Bacillus sphaericus strains isolated in Brazil, potentially useful as biological control agents against mosquito larvae.

Thirty mosquitocidal strains of Bacillus sphaericus isolated from different sources and localities in Brazil were characterized phenotypically and genetically to determine their relationship. Among the strains tested, 93.3% were shown to be resistant to lincomycin, 96.6% to novobiocin, 60% to chloramphenicol and all strains were resistant to streptomycin. Resistance to HgCl2, NiSO4.6H2O and CuSO4 was observed in 83.3, 86.6 and 100% of the strains, respectively. All strains were inhibited by the presence of CoSO4. Tolerance to ethanol and variable responses to different amounts of creolin, phenol and xylol was also observed. Amplification of DNA of each of 30 isolates using repetitive primers allowed the identification of 5 groups of similar strains in BOX-PCR and 8 groups in REP-PCR. Using cloned toxin genes from B. sphaericus as probes in hybridization studies, 83% of the strains studied hybridized to the bin probe and 90% to the mtx probe. A comparison of the 30 strains by similarity matrix analysis using the data obtained in all approaches used in this study resulted in 22 groups (16 groups among the 24 high-toxicity strains) at 100% similarity, indicating a high degree of diversity among the strains tested. Some of the strains studied here, which are resistant to different stress conditions, should be considered for further ecological studies.