Passiflora edulis Leaf Extract: Evidence of Antidiabetic and Antiplatelet Effects in Rats.

Different Passiflora species have been appointed as a promising herbal medicine due to antioxidant properties; however, their effect on oxidative process induced by diabetes is still controversial. We aimed to evaluate effects of hydroethanolic extract 70% from P. edulis leaf on biochemical blood markers, collagen glycation, production of oxidant species and platelet aggregation in diabetic rats. The phytochemical analysis of the extract was performed by dereplication using LC coupled to the Photodiode Array Detector and Mass Spectrometer detector. Male Wistar rats were assigned to the control group and groups treated with alloxan (150 mg/kg) intraperitoneally, extract (200 mg/kg/d, for 90 d) and combination of alloxan and extract. The phytochemical analysis suggested the presence of flavonoids C-glycosides in the extract. The diabetic animals treated with the extract presented improvement in glycaemic control, reduced glycation collagen, levels of non-high density lipoprotein (non-HDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol and creatinine, production of oxidant species and aggregation in platelet in relation to diabetic animals non-treated. Our results showed that P. edulis leaf extract presents a health benefit to the diabetic state, preventing the appearance of its complications. Its effect can be associated with flavonoids, among which is the flavonoid C-glycoside isoorientin.

Myeloperoxidase in human peripheral blood lymphocytes: Production and subcellular localization.

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an important enzyme in the front-line protection against microorganisms. In peripheral blood, it is accepted that MPO is only produced by myeloid-lineage cells. Thus, MPO presence is unexpected in lymphocytes. We showed recently that B1-lymphocytes from mice have MPO. Here, we showed that subsets of human peripheral B, CD4(+) and CD8(+) T lymphocytes express MPO. The content of MPO in lymphocytes was very low compared to neutrophils/monocytes with a preferential distribution in the nucleus and perinuclear region. Also, we performed a MPO mRNA expression analysis from human blood cells derived from microarray raw data publicly available, showing that MPO is modulated in infectious disease. MPO was increased in CD4(+) T lymphocytes from HIV chronic infection and in CD8(+) T lymphocytes from HCV-positive patients. Our study points out MPO as a multifunctional protein due to its subcellular localization and expression modulation in lymphocytes indicating alternative unknown functions for MPO in lymphocytes.

Intracellular localization of myeloperoxidase in murine peritoneal B-lymphocytes and macrophages.

Generation of hypochlorous acid (HOCl), an important microbicidal agent, is considered to be the main function of myeloperoxidase (MPO), an enzyme present in phagocytes. High amounts of MPO are present in neutrophil azurophilic granules, which are mobilized into the phagolysosome vacuole during phagocytosis. MPO is also present in monocytes and macrophages, although to a lesser degree than in neutrophils. In the present study, we investigated the distribution of MPO in murine peritoneal cells using flow cytometry, confocal microscopy (CM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). MPO was observed in macrophages, and surprisingly, we detected MPO in B lymphocytes, specifically in B1-a. MPO was present in cytoplasmic granules, vesicles, mitochondria and the nucleus of murine peritoneal cells. Together, these findings suggest that, in addition to its known microbicidal activity, MPO has a myriad of other unanticipated cellular functions.

The effects of the decaffeination of coffee samples on platelet aggregation in hyperlipidemic rats.

The effect of coffee on cardiovascular diseases is still controversial. It is known that the process of decaffeination may influence the chemical constitution and, therefore, the biological effects of coffee. This study thus evaluated the effects of decaffeination on the levels of total phenols and chlorogenic acids in Coffea arabica L. samples, as well as the effects of ingesting both integral and decaffeinated coffee on the lipid profile and hemostatic and hematological parameters in normal and hyperlipidemic rats. Samples of integral and decaffeinated lyophilized coffee (Coffea arabica L., planted in Brazil) were used for chemical analysis (total phenols, chlorogenic acid and caffeine contents). For the bioassays, coffee beverages were prepared with non-lyophilized samples (10% w/v) and were filtered and administered to animals by gavage (7.2 mL/kg/day) over 30 days. On the 31st day after beginning the treatment with coffee beverages, hyperlipidemia was induced to the animals by administering Triton WR-1339 (300 mg/kg body weight). On day 32, blood was taken to determine the lipid profile, platelet aggregation, prothrombin time, partially activated thromboplastin time and hemogram. The contents of both phenolic compounds and chlorogenic acid in the integral coffee beverage were significantly lower than those in the decaffeinated coffee beverage. The animals treated with Triton WR-1339 presented a mixed hyperlipidemia. Although the decaffeination process caused a relative increase in total phenols and chlorogenic acids, the coffee drinks were unable to change the lipid profile or the hemostatic and hematological parameters in the studied animals.

Neutrophil dysfunction induced by hyperglycemia: modulation of myeloperoxidase activity.

Our data suggest that impaired activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) may play an important role in the dysfunction of neutrophils from hyperglycemic rats. Neutrophil biochemical pathways include the NADPH oxidase system and the MPO enzyme. They both play important role in the killing function of neutrophils. The effect of hyperglycemia on the activity of these enzymes and the consequences with regard to Candida albicans phagocytosis and the microbicidal property of rat peritoneal neutrophils is evaluated here. The NADPH oxidase system activity was measured using chemiluminescence and cytochrome C reduction assays. MPO activity was measured by monitoring HOCl production, and MPO protein expression was analysed using Western blot and immunofluorescence. C. albicans phagocytosis and death were evaluated by optical microscopy using the May-Grunwald-Giemsa staining method. ROS generation kinetic was slightly delayed in the diabetic group. MPO expression levels were higher in diabetic neutrophils; however, MPO activity was decreased in these same neutrophils compared with the controls. C. albicans phagocytosis and killing were lower in the diabetic neutrophils. Based on our experimental model, the phagocytic and killing functions of neutrophil phagocytosis are impaired in diabetic rats because of the decreased production of HOCl, highlighting the importance of MPO in the microbicidal function of neutrophils.

Effects of the consumption of caffeinated and decaffeinated instant coffee beverages on oxidative stress induced by strenuous exercise in rats.

Many authors attribute the antioxidant activity of brewed coffee to its caffeine content. In addition, caffeine intake has been associated with increased performance during physical exercise. This study analyzed the in vivo effects of drinking caffeinated and decaffeinated instant coffee (8%, w/v) on oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity in the anterior tibialis muscles of rats subjected to intense exercise. It was observed that exercise induced lipid peroxidation (estimated using malondialdehyde) and protein oxidation (evaluated by determining the formation of carbonyl groups) in the muscle (P < 0.05). Decaffeinated instant coffee and caffeine solution did not exhibit antioxidant activity in vivo. Caffeinated instant coffee beverage intake did not induce changes in superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities but was able to diminish lipid and protein oxidation in the anterior tibialis muscles of rats after exercise (P < 0.05), contributing to a reduction in the oxidative stress triggered by exercise.

Association between neuronal degeneration and supraphysiological doses of two types of anabolic steroids in rat brain.

The anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are natural compounds that are precursors or derivatives of testosterone and, as a consequence of indiscriminate use, cause irreversible neuronal effects. For this study, 70 brain samples were used from male Wistar rats, separated into 14 groups, divided into: control, sedentary, and exercise groups; in the concentrations: 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. Two different AAS were used: Testosterone Cypionate (TC) and Nandrolone Decanoate (ND). The encephali followed all the conventional histological procedures, for further analysis of the estimates of neuron bodies of the Locus coeruleus; also being carried out the techniques of the Tunnel Assay and Von Kossa staining. The results obtained show significant values different from the control group: Testosterone Cypionate (TCS): 5 mg (25,00 ± 4,47); 10 mg (23,67 ± 4,45) and 15 mg (21,93 ± 5,65), as well as for Nandrolone Decanoate (ND) in the doses: 5 mg (23,40 ± 3,81); 10 mg (22,80 ± 3,80) and 15 mg (22,80 ± 4,54) being the values of the control group (CGS) 34,27 ± 6,06. For the groups that exercised, the values were: TCT 5 mg 20,87 ± 3,23; TCT 10 mg 21,93 ± 4,91 and TCT 15 mg 21,47 ± 4,36 while, the Nandrolone Decanoate (ND) groups, in the different doses were: NDT 5 mg 21,53 ± 4,34; NDT 10 mg 23,53 ± 1,68 and NDT 15 mg 23,40 ± 2,20, also expressing significant values different from the control group. When comparing the sedentary control group with the animals that exercised, a statistically significant difference was observed being: CGS 34,27 ± 6,06; TCT 5 mg; 20,87 ± 3,23; NDT 5 mg 21,53 ± 4,34; TCT 10 mg 21,93 ± 4,91; NDT 10 mg 23,53 ± 1,68; TCT 15 mg 21,47 ± 4,36 and NDT 15 mg 23,40 ± 2,20. The results of this study, point out that both steroids drastically reduce neuronal density in the Locus coeruleus area inferring that, the possible cause of neuronal death is necrosis, caused by intracellular calcium imbalance.

Endpoints as human biomarkers in exposure assessment of triazoles fungicides.

Potential endpoint biomarkers were evaluated in the assessment of exposure to triazoles, in the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Volunteers were divided into three groups: occupationally exposed and rural residents (n = 21), non-occupationally exposed and rural residents (n = 35) and non-occupationally exposed and urban residents (n = 30). Of all endpoints evaluated, plasma concentration of androstenedione (p < 0.001) and glycine-conjugated bile acids presented statistical differences in the three studied groups (p < 0.05). However, our findings concerning oxidative stress and testosterone levels, plus that related to unconjugated and taurine conjugated bile acids, suggested that more studies are necessary to evaluate their potential as biomarkers for triazole exposure, as statistical significance was not attained between the groups. Our human population data contributes to the development of triazole exposure risk assessment with respect to these potential effect biomarkers, in potentially vulnerable groups and individuals.

Protective effect of flavonoids from Passiflora edulis Sims on diabetic complications in rats.

OBJECTIVES: This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of flavonoids present in leaves of Passiflora edulis fruit on complications induced by diabetes in rats. METHODS: The extract of P. edulis leaf was obtained by 70% ethanol maceration. From the dry extract, the fractions were obtained by consecutive liquid-liquid partition with hexane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The content of isoorientin of ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions was determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray and triple quadrupole ionization (TQD) analysis in tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Tq-MS). Only Fr-BuOH was used to treat diabetic or not Wistar rats. Biochemical parameters, platelet aggregation and production of reactive species were evaluated. KEY FINDINGS: The UPLC-ESI-Tq-MS analysis revealed the presence of several flavonoids, among which we identified five possible flavonoids c-heterosides (luteolin-7-O-pyranosyl-3-O-glucoside, apigenin-6-8-di-C-glycoside, apigenin-6-C-arabinoside-8-C-glycoside, isoorientin, isovitexin). The diabetic rats (treated intraperitoneally with alloxan, 150 mg/kg) treated with Fr-BuOH (20 mg/kg/day for 90 days) presented improvement in blood glucose, serum levels of fructosamine, lipid profile and urea. Furthermore, the Fr-BuOH reduced both platelet aggregation and the production of oxidant species in diabetic animals. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggested that flavonoid C-glycosides present in the Fr-BuOH may be beneficial for the diabetic state, preventing complications induced by diabetes.

Curcumin, Alone or in Combination with Aminoguanidine, Increases Antioxidant Defenses and Glycation Product Detoxification in Streptozotocin-Diabetic Rats: A Therapeutic Strategy to Mitigate Glycoxidative Stress.

Both oxidative stress and the exacerbated generation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have crucial roles in the onset and progression of diabetic complications. Curcumin has antioxidant and antidiabetic properties; its combination with compounds capable of preventing the advanced glycation events, such as aminoguanidine, is an interesting therapeutic option to counteract diabetic complications. This study is aimed at investigating the effects of treatments with curcumin or aminoguanidine, alone or in combination, on metabolic alterations in streptozotocin-diabetic rats; the focus was mainly on the potential of these bioactive compounds to oppose the glycoxidative stress. Curcumin (90 mg/kg) or aminoguanidine (50 and 100 mg/kg), alone or in combination, slightly decreased glycemia and the biomarkers of early protein glycation, but markedly decreased AGE levels (biomarkers of advanced glycation) and oxidative damage biomarkers in the plasma, liver, and kidney of diabetic rats. Some novel insights about the in vivo effects of these bioactive compounds are centered on the triggering of cytoprotective machinery. The treatments with curcumin and/or aminoguanidine increased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes (paraoxonase 1, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and the levels of AGE detoxification system components (AGE-R1 receptor and glyoxalase 1). In addition, combination therapy between curcumin and aminoguanidine effectively prevented dyslipidemia in diabetic rats. These findings demonstrate the combination of curcumin (natural antioxidant) and aminoguanidine (prototype therapeutic agent with anti-AGE activity) as a potential complementary therapeutic option for use with antihyperglycemic agents, which may aggregate beneficial effects against diabetic complications.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Activities of Oil from Baru Almonds (Dipteryx alata Vog.) in a Preclinical Model of Lipotoxicity and Dyslipidemia.

The oil obtained from baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.) almonds exhibits high energy value and is reported in popular medicine for the treatment of rheumatic diseases and reproductive disturbances. Although baru oil is used in domestic cuisine, the chemical characterization of this oil and its effects on lipid metabolism are still poorly understood. Therefore, this study evaluated the fatty acid (FA) profile and the effects of baru oil on liver and aorta in a murine model of dyslipidemia. The chromatographic profile of baru oil showed high levels of unsaturated FAs, especially oleic acid. Saturated FAs, such as palmitic and lignoceric acids, were found in lower amounts. Hypercholesterolemia was induced in male Wistar rats by daily administration of a lipid emulsion by gavage for 15 weeks. Biochemical and histopathological analysis were performed on serum, aorta, and liver. The results demonstrated that animals developed marked hypercholesterolemia, liver steatosis, and increased lipid peroxidation in the aorta. Treatment with baru oil attenuated lipid peroxidation and drastically reduced liver damage, especially ballooning degeneration and steatosis. By restricting vascular and hepatic injury, this oil showed potential applicability as a functional food, reinforcing its use in popular medicine and domestic cuisine.

Leaf extract of Coffea arabica L. reduces lipid peroxidation and has anti-platelet effect in a rat dyslipidemia model

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of the Coffea arabica Lineu (L.) leaf extract and its effects on platelet aggregation of dyslipidemic rats. The extract was obtained by the percolation of C. arabica L. leaves in hydroethanolic solution 70% (v/v). The mass spectrometry FIA-ESI-MS² suggested the presence of chlorogenic acid, rutin acid, and quinic acid. The DPPH• radicals scavenging capacity was demonstrated (IC50 = 0.06 mg/mL). The extract was administered to rats by gavage (300 mg/kg/day) for 56 days. Dyslipidemia was induced by administering Triton WR-1339 (300 mg/kg body weight) on the 54th day. On day 56, blood was collected by puncturing the abdominal aorta artery and the aortic artery was removed. Lipid profile, markers of renal and hepatic injury, lipid peroxidation, and platelet aggregation tests were carried out. The ingestion of extract reduced the lipid peroxidation (aorta and plasma) and platelet aggregation in dyslipidemic rats. The extract did not affect markers of renal and hepatic function as analyzed in this study, suggesting neither impaired liver nor kidney function in these animals. Therefore, our results demonstrate that the extract of leaves of C. arabica L. show antioxidant potential in vitro and in vivo as well as anti-platelet aggregation in dyslipidemic animals

Aminoguanidine treatment increased NOX2 response in diabetic rats: Improved phagocytosis and killing of Candida albicans by neutrophils.

In this study, we show that aminoguanidine (AMG), an inhibitor of protein glycation, increases the NOX2 (phagocyte NADPH oxidase) response and microbicidal activity by neutrophils, regardless of diabetic status. The non-enzymatic glycation of proteins, yielding irreversible advanced glycation end products (AGEs), is involved in the development of diabetes complications, including alterations of signaling pathways and the generation of reactive oxygen species by phagocytes. The phagocytes produce ROS (reactive oxygen species) through activation of the NOX2 complex, which generates superoxide. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of hyperglycemia and the glycation of proteins on the NOX2 activity of neutrophils and its implications for cellular physiology, with a focus on the microbicidal activity of these cells. We treated diabetic rats with AMG and evaluated neutrophil ROS generation and Candida albicans killing ability. We observed a large increase in the microbicidal activity of peritoneal neutrophils from AMG-treated rats. The increase was independent of diabetic status and myeloperoxidase activity. Collectively, our results suggest that AMG has an immunomodulator role that triggers an increase in the microbicidal response of neutrophils mainly related to reactive oxygen species production by NOX2.

Coffee intake (Coffea arabica L. ) reduces advanced glycation end product (AGEs) formation and platelet aggregation in diabetic rats

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the effect of coffee intake on AGEs formation and platelet aggregation in diabetic Wistar rats. Methods: Coffee powder samples were used to prepare a 10% beverage. Diabetes mellitus was induced in the animals by administering 2% alloxan. All animal experiments were approved by the ethics committee for animal experiments under N°. 420/2012 and 536/2013. Diabetic and non-diabetic rats were divided into 6 groups treated and untreated with coffee (7.2 mL/Kg body weight) and aminoguanidine (AGE inhibiting agent) (100 mg/Kg body weight) for 50 days. After 50 days, the animals were fasted for 12 h and anesthetized (40 mg/Kg sodium pentobarbital) intraperitoneally. Blood samples were collected from the abdominal artery puncture. Hematological parameters (red cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and leukocyte) and glycemic and HbA1c levels were measured. AGEs quantification (spectrofluorometric method) and the platelet aggregation test (aggregation of cuvettes in a four-channel platelet aggregometer) were also conducted. The rats' renal function was evaluated by measuring serum urea and creatinine. Results: Data showed that coffee intake had no effect on the hematological parameters. Fasting glucose and HbA1c dosage were significantly higher in diabetic animals compared to non-diabetic animals (confirmed the effectiveness of inducing and maintaining diabetic status). Results showed that coffee reduced AGE formation and platelet aggregation in our animal model, not altering the animals' renal function. Conclusions: These results suggest beneficial effects on vasculopathy, a common complication in diabetic patients.

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) leaf extract modulates the oxidative metabolism of rat peritoneal neutrophils in a model of inflammation

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of extracts of Passiflora edulis Sims leaves on the oxidative metabolism of rat peritoneal neutrophils using a model of acute inflammation. The extract was obtained by maceration in 70% ethanol, evaporation under reduced pressure and lyophilisation. Total phenolic content (TP) was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The P. edulis extract, in different doses, was administered by gavage 1 h prior to inflammation induction by carrageenan (8 mg/kg, i.p.); five hours later, the neutrophils were obtained by intraperitoneal lavage. The tests performed in neutrophils were cytochrome C and chemiluminescence assay as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities. The administration of the extract reduced the number of neutrophils recruited to the site of inflammation; however, the extract did not alter the activity of NADPH oxidase as well as SOD activity in these cells. The MPO and CAT activities in peritoneal neutrophils of rat treated with extract was lower than in the control group, and the GPx activity was increased. Based on the experimental model utilised, the anti-inflammatory potential of P. edulis leaf extract could be related to the presence of phenolic compounds in the extract.

Coffee beverage reduces ROS production and does not affect the organism's response against Candida albicans

Coffee is a mixture of substances with potential beneficial and adverse health effects. Several studies demonstrate the antioxidant effect of the phenolics compounds present in coffee. Neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 2 (NOX2), which plays a key role in organism defenseagainst microbial pathogens. Diabetes mellitus patients are more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections. The present study evaluated the influence of coffee beverage on NOX2 activity and ROS generation and the impact of this effect on phagocytosis and killing of Candida albicansby neutrophils from diabetic and non-diabetic animals. Diabetes mellitus was induced in male Wistar rats using 2% alloxan. Diabetic and non-diabetic animals were divided into groups treated and untreated with coffee drink (7.2 mL/kg/day) or apocyanine (16 mg/kg/day) for 50 days. After 50 days, the animals' glycemic profile was measured by blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) tests. The generation of ROS in neutrophilic cells was measured by chemiluminescence and cytochrome C reduction assays. C. albicans phagocytosis and death were evaluated by optical microscopy using the May-Grunwald-Giemsa staining method. The coffee drink has not altered the glycemic profile and NOX2 activity of the animals. However, coffee reduced the ROS pool in non-diabetic and diabetic animals, but this activity did not harm the phagocytosis or killing of neutrophils. Treatment with apocyanin decreased ROS production and killing capacity of neutrophils from non-diabetic animals against C. albicans. We suggest that the coffee drink intake prevents oxidative damage and does not impair response of the organism against opportunistic microorganism.

Caffeinated instant coffee prevents an increase in exercise-mediated superoxide anion production in rat peritoneal neutrophils

The present study analyzed the in vivo effects of drinking caffeinated and decaffeinated instant coffee (8% w/v) by adult male Wistar rats submitted to high-intensity exercises. The parameters used in the evaluation were the determination of the activities of NADPH oxidase, myeloperoxidase and other antioxidant enzymes present in neutrophils of rats. It was observed that exercise-induced superoxide anion production depends on the NADPH oxidase activity (estimated by the cytochrome C reduction test) in peritoneal neutrophils (p < 0.05). The intake of caffeinated and decaffeinated instant coffee beverages and of a caffeine solution to 1.67% did not induced changes in the activities of the enzymes myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.05). But consumption of caffeinated instant coffee drink prevented an increase in NADPH oxidase-mediated superoxide production induced by highly intense exercise in rat neutrophils. While the decaffeinated instant coffee drink or caffeine solution alone did not affect NADPH oxidase-mediated superoxide production. We suggest that this activity is associated with the chemical composition and concentration of phenolic compounds and other antioxidant substances formed during roasting. From the obtained results, it was concluded that moderate intake of caffeinated instant coffee (equivalent to a daily human consumption of 4 50-mLcups of coffee) may have beneficial effects on health, contributing to a reduction in superoxide anion generation. Therefore, more research must be conducted to elucidate the mechanism of action of caffeinated coffee on NADPH oxidase in neutrophils.

Prevalence of paracoccidioidomycosis infection by intradermal reaction in rural areas in Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of paracoccidioidal infection by intradermal reaction (Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity, DTH) to Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in rural areas in Alfenas, Southern Minas Gerais (MG) State, Brazil, and to assess risk factors (gender, occupation, age, alcohol intake and smoking) associated with infection. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study using intradermal tests with gp 43 paracoccidioidin in 542 participants, who were previously contacted by local health agents and so spontaneously attended the test. Participants underwent an interview by filling out a registration form with epidemiological data and were tested with an intradermal administration of 0.1 mL of paracoccidioidin in the left forearm. The test was read 48 hours after injection and was considered positive if induration was greater than or equal to 5 mm. Out of 542 participants, 46.67% were positive to the skin test. Prevalence increased in accordance with an increase of age. There was statistical significance only for males. Occupation, alcohol intake and smoking habits were not significantly associated with the risk of paracoccidioidomycosis infection. There is relevance of paracoccidioidomycosis infection in such rural areas, which suggests that further epidemiological and clinical studies on this mycosis should be done in the southern part of Minas Gerais State.

Considerações sobre a imitação entre jovens e crianças cegas / On imitation among young and blind children / Consideraciones sobre la imitación de jóvenes y niños ciegos

O artigo investiga a imitação entre jovens e crianças cegas. A pesquisa foi realizada como um mosaico no tempo já que as considerações de campo foram extraídas de dois domínios: da experiência profissional com a estimulação precoce de bebês cegos e de dispositivo de intervenção com jovens cegos e com baixa visão, com idades entre 13 e 18 anos. Afirmando o caráter situado do conhecimento, a pesquisa indica que a imitação entre jovens cegos pode ser uma das vias de criação de um mundo comum entre cegos e videntes. A imitação entre jovens cegos é um processo que envolve múltiplas sensorialidades, exige experimentação do corpo e redunda numa transformação recíproca, tanto do cego quanto do vidente. O trabalho conclui com a indicação do caráter singular da imitação e, ao mesmo tempo, com a afirmação da sua pertinência ao processo de inclusão e desenvolvimento tanto da criança quanto do jovem cegos.

This article investigates the imitation among young and blind children. The survey was conducted as a mosaic in the time since the field considerations were taken from two areas: a professional experience with early stimulation of blind babies and a workshop with blind and low vision young between 13-18 years. By stating the situated trace of knowledge, the research indicates that imitation among blind young people can be one of the ways of creating a common world among young blind and sighted people. Imitation among blind young is a multi-sensory process that requires a body experience, including both blind and people who see. The paper concludes with an indication of the unique character of imitation and at the same time, with the affirmation of its relevance to the development and inclusion process of both the child and the young blind.

El artículo investiga la imitación entre jóvenes y niños ciegos. La investigación se realizó como un mosaico en el tiempo, las consideraciones de campo fueron tomadas de dos áreas: la experiencia profesional de la estimulación temprana de los bebés ciegos y el dispositivo de intervención con jóvenes ciegos y con baja visión, con edades entre 13 y 18 años. Afirmando el conocimiento como práctica situada, la investigación indica que la imitación entre los jóvenes ciegos puede ser una forma de creación de un mundo común entre ciegos y videntes. La imitación entre los jóvenes ciegos es un proceso que implica múltiples sensorialidades, requiere experimentación del cuerpo y equivale a una transformación recíproca del ciego y del que ve. El documento concluye con una indicación del carácter único de la imitación, con la afirmación de su relevancia para el proceso de inclusión y desarrollo para el niño y el joven ciego.

Avaliação do efeito antioxidante da bebida de café solúvel cafeinado e descafeinado In vitro e In vivo / Antioxidant effect evaluation of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee brew In vitro and In vivo

Fitoquímicos com ação antioxidante presentes no café, apresentam diversos benefícios na saúde devido as suas propriedades funcionais. A atividade antioxidante foi avaliada utilizando-se ensaios in vitro para se investigar a atividade sequestrante de radicais livres DPPH e testes in vivo para determinar a inibição da peroxidação lipídica. Os dados obtidos permitem sugerir que as bebidas de café solúveis cafeinado e descafeinado apresentaram uma forte atividade antioxidante e esta é dependente da concentração. A atividade antioxidante in vitro da bebida de café solúvel cafeinado apresentouse maior do que a do café solúvel descafeinado. No entanto, o tratamento não inibiu a peroxidação lipídica do cérebro de ratos in vivo, em comparação com o controle. O tratamento com a ingestão das diferentes bebidas reduziu a concentração de ferro sérico. Os dados obtidos sugerem que as bebidas de café solúvel apresentam uma forte atividade antioxidante e esta é dependente da concentração.

Phytochemicals with antioxidant activity contained in coffee presents many health benefits due to their functional properties. This study aimed to determine the content of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of soluble caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee beverage. Soluble solid parameters and phenolic compounds, as well as, antioxidant activity were analyzed using in vitro essays to investigate free radical scavenging activity. In vivo essays were used to determine lipid peroxidation inhibition. The in vitro antioxidant activity of soluble caffeinated coffee was higher comparing to decaffeinated soluble coffee. However, comparing to the control, the treatment does not inhibit rat brain lipid peroxidation in vivo. It was also observed that the consumption of different beverages reduces the concentration of serum iron. The data obtained suggest that soluble coffee beverages present a strong antioxidant activity which depends on the concentration.