Phytochemical characterization and biological activities of Plectranthus barbatus Andrews / Caracterização fitoquímica e atividades biológicas de Plectranthus barbatus Andrews

Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) is widely distributed in the world and has a range of popular therapeutic indications. This work aimed to evaluate the phytochemical characterization of two leaf extracts of P. barbatus, and their antimicrobial, antineoplastic and immunomodulatory potential. After collection, herborization and obtainment of the P. barbatus aqueous extract (PBA) and acetone:water 7:3 P. barbatus organic extract (PBO), the phytochemical characterization was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antimicrobial activity was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against eight bacterial strains using the microdilution test and the fungus Trichophyton rubrum by disc diffusion assay and microdilution test. Cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT and trypan blue methods in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at concentrations ranged between 0.1 to 100 µg.mL-¹ and in neoplastic cell lines Toledo, K562, DU-145 and PANC-1 at 1, 10 and 100 µg.mL-¹ . Immunomodulatory activity, was evaluated by sandwich ELISA of proinflammatory cytokines at BALB/c mice splenocytes cultures supernatant. Both extracts presented flavonoids, cinnamic derivatives, steroids and ellagic acid. PBO showed bacteriostatic activity against Acinetobacter baumannii (MIC = 250 µg.mL-¹) clinical isolate and PBA fungistatic activity against Trichophyton rubrum (MIC = 800 µg.mL-¹). The extracts did not exhibit toxicity to PBMCs and neoplastic cells (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-¹). Additionally, PBO at 100 µg.mL-1 significantly inhibited IFN-γ and IL-17A cytokines (p = 0.03). Plectranthus barbatus is a potential candidate for therapeutic use due to its low toxicity in healthy human cells and exhibits biological activities of medical interest as bacteriostatic, fungistatic and immunomodulatory.

Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) é amplamente distribuída no mundo e com uma série de indicações terapêuticas populares. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a caracterização fitoquímica de dois extratos da folha de P. barbatus e seu potencial antimicrobiano, antineoplásico e imunomodulador. Após coleta, herborização e obtenção do extrato aquoso (PBA) e acetona: água 7: 3 (orgânico) (PBO) de P. barbatus, a caracterização fitoquímica foi realizada por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). A atividade antimicrobiana foi realizada para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) contra oito cepas bacterianas usando o teste de microdiluição e o fungo Trichophyton rubrum por ensaio de difusão em disco e teste de microdiluição. A citotoxicidade foi avaliada por métodos MTT e azul de tripan em células normais mononucleares do sangue periférico (CMSP) em concentrações variadas entre 0,1 a 100 µg.mL-¹ e nas linhagens celulares neoplásicas Toledo, K562, DU-145 e PANC-¹ em 1, 10 e 100 µg.mL-¹ . A atividade imunomoduladora foi avaliada por ELISA sanduíche de citocinas pró-inflamatórias em sobrenadante de culturas de esplenócitos de camundongos BALB/c. Ambos os extratos apresentaram flavonoides, derivados cinâmicos, esteróides e ácido elágico. O PBO mostrou atividade bacteriostática contra Acinetobacter baumannii (CIM = 250 µg.mL-¹) e atividade fungistática do PBA contra Trichophyton rubrum (CIM = 800 µg.mL-¹). Os extratos não apresentaram toxicidade para CMSP e células neoplásicas (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-¹). Além disso, o PBO a 100 µg.mL-¹ inibiu significativamente as citocinas IFN-γ e IL-17A (p = 0,03). Plectranthus barbatus é um candidato potencial para uso terapêutico devido à sua baixa toxicidade em células humanas saudáveis e exibe atividade de interesse médico como bacteriostática, fungistática e imunomoduladora.

Phytochemical characterization and biological activities of Plectranthus barbatus Andrews

Abstract Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) is widely distributed in the world and has a range of popular therapeutic indications. This work aimed to evaluate the phytochemical characterization of two leaf extracts of P. barbatus, and their antimicrobial, antineoplastic and immunomodulatory potential. After collection, herborization and obtainment of the P. barbatus aqueous extract (PBA) and acetone:water 7:3 P. barbatus organic extract (PBO), the phytochemical characterization was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antimicrobial activity was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against eight bacterial strains using the microdilution test and the fungus Trichophyton rubrum by disc diffusion assay and microdilution test. Cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT and trypan blue methods in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at concentrations ranged between 0.1 to 100 µg.mL-1 and in neoplastic cell lines Toledo, K562, DU-145 and PANC-1 at 1, 10 and 100 µg.mL-1 . Immunomodulatory activity, was evaluated by sandwich ELISA of proinflammatory cytokines at BALB/c mice splenocytes cultures supernatant. Both extracts presented flavonoids, cinnamic derivatives, steroids and ellagic acid. PBO showed bacteriostatic activity against Acinetobacter baumannii (MIC = 250 µg.mL-1) clinical isolate and PBA fungistatic activity against Trichophyton rubrum (MIC = 800 µg.mL-1). The extracts did not exhibit toxicity to PBMCs and neoplastic cells (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-1). Additionally, PBO at 100 µg.mL-1 significantly inhibited IFN- and IL-17A cytokines (p = 0.03). Plectranthus barbatus is a potential candidate for therapeutic use due to its low toxicity in healthy human cells and exhibits biological activities of medical interest as bacteriostatic, fungistatic and immunomodulatory.

Resumo Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) é amplamente distribuída no mundo e com uma série de indicações terapêuticas populares. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a caracterização fitoquímica de dois extratos da folha de P. barbatus e seu potencial antimicrobiano, antineoplásico e imunomodulador. Após coleta, herborização e obtenção do extrato aquoso (PBA) e acetona: água 7: 3 (orgânico) (PBO) de P. barbatus, a caracterização fitoquímica foi realizada por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). A atividade antimicrobiana foi realizada para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) contra oito cepas bacterianas usando o teste de microdiluição e o fungo Trichophyton rubrum por ensaio de difusão em disco e teste de microdiluição. A citotoxicidade foi avaliada por métodos MTT e azul de tripan em células normais mononucleares do sangue periférico (CMSP) em concentrações variadas entre 0,1 a 100 µg.mL-1 e nas linhagens celulares neoplásicas Toledo, K562, DU-145 e PANC-1 em 1, 10 e 100 µg.mL-1 . A atividade imunomoduladora foi avaliada por ELISA sanduíche de citocinas pró-inflamatórias em sobrenadante de culturas de esplenócitos de camundongos BALB/c. Ambos os extratos apresentaram flavonoides, derivados cinâmicos, esteróides e ácido elágico. O PBO mostrou atividade bacteriostática contra Acinetobacter baumannii (CIM = 250 µg.mL-1) e atividade fungistática do PBA contra Trichophyton rubrum (CIM = 800 µg.mL-1). Os extratos não apresentaram toxicidade para CMSP e células neoplásicas (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-1). Além disso, o PBO a 100 µg.mL-1 inibiu significativamente as citocinas IFN- e IL-17A (p = 0,03). Plectranthus barbatus é um candidato potencial para uso terapêutico devido à sua baixa toxicidade em células humanas saudáveis e exibe atividade de interesse médico como bacteriostática, fungistática e imunomoduladora.

Phytochemical characterization and biological activities of Plectranthus barbatus Andrews / Caracterização fitoquímica e atividades biológicas de Plectranthus barbatus Andrews

Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) is widely distributed in the world and has a range of popular therapeutic indications. This work aimed to evaluate the phytochemical characterization of two leaf extracts of P. barbatus, and their antimicrobial, antineoplastic and immunomodulatory potential. After collection, herborization and obtainment of the P. barbatus aqueous extract (PBA) and acetone:water 7:3 P. barbatus organic extract (PBO), the phytochemical characterization was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antimicrobial activity was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against eight bacterial strains using the microdilution test and the fungus Trichophyton rubrum by disc diffusion assay and microdilution test. Cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT and trypan blue methods in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at concentrations ranged between 0.1 to 100 µg.mL-1 and in neoplastic cell lines Toledo, K562, DU-145 and PANC-1 at 1, 10 and 100 µg.mL-1 . Immunomodulatory activity, was evaluated by sandwich ELISA of proinflammatory cytokines at BALB/c mice splenocytes cultures supernatant. Both extracts presented flavonoids, cinnamic derivatives, steroids and ellagic acid. PBO showed bacteriostatic activity against Acinetobacter baumannii (MIC = 250 µg.mL-1) clinical isolate and PBA fungistatic activity against Trichophyton rubrum (MIC = 800 µg.mL-1). The extracts did not exhibit toxicity to PBMCs and neoplastic cells (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-1). Additionally, PBO at 100 µg.mL-1 significantly inhibited IFN-γ and IL-17A cytokines (p = 0.03). Plectranthus barbatus is a potential candidate for therapeutic use due to its low toxicity in healthy human cells and exhibits biological activities of medical interest as bacteriostatic, fungistatic and immunomodulatory.

Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) é amplamente distribuída no mundo e com uma série de indicações terapêuticas populares. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a caracterização fitoquímica de dois extratos da folha de P. barbatus e seu potencial antimicrobiano, antineoplásico e imunomodulador. Após coleta, herborização e obtenção do extrato aquoso (PBA) e acetona: água 7: 3 (orgânico) (PBO) de P. barbatus, a caracterização fitoquímica foi realizada por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). A atividade antimicrobiana foi realizada para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) contra oito cepas bacterianas usando o teste de microdiluição e o fungo Trichophyton rubrum por ensaio de difusão em disco e teste de microdiluição. A citotoxicidade foi avaliada por métodos MTT e azul de tripan em células normais mononucleares do sangue periférico (CMSP) em concentrações variadas entre 0,1 a 100 µg.mL-1 e nas linhagens celulares neoplásicas Toledo, K562, DU-145 e PANC-1 em 1, 10 e 100 µg.mL-1 . A atividade imunomoduladora foi avaliada por ELISA sanduíche de citocinas pró-inflamatórias em sobrenadante de culturas de esplenócitos de camundongos BALB/c. Ambos os extratos apresentaram flavonoides, derivados cinâmicos, esteróides e ácido elágico. O PBO mostrou atividade bacteriostática contra Acinetobacter baumannii (CIM = 250 µg.mL-1) e atividade fungistática do PBA contra Trichophyton rubrum (CIM = 800 µg.mL-1). Os extratos não apresentaram toxicidade para CMSP e células neoplásicas (IC50 > 100 µg.mL-1). Além disso, o PBO a 100 µg.mL-1 inibiu significativamente as citocinas IFN-γ e IL-17A (p = 0,03). Plectranthus barbatus é um candidato potencial para uso terapêutico devido à sua baixa toxicidade em células humanas saudáveis e exibe atividade de interesse médico como bacteriostática, fungistática e imunomoduladora.

Evaluation of tissue repair using phytotherapeutic gel from Plectranthus neochilus, Schlechter (boldo-gambá) and Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl (favela) in Wistar rats / [Avaliação da reparação tecidual do gel fitoterápico de Plectranthus neochilus, Schlechter (Boldo-gambá) e Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl (Favela) em ratos Wistar]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a gel formulation from the association of Plectranthus neochilus and Cnidoscolus quercifolius on tissue repair in cutaneous wounds in rats. A surgical wound was induced in 35 Wistar rats and treated according to group: G1 - commercial phytotherapeutic gel; G2 - Carbopol gel 1%; G3, 4, 5 - gel formulation from Boldo-gambá and Favela (FGBF) at 2.5%, 5%, and 10%, respectively. 1ml of the product was applied topically daily, for 14 days. Macroscopic evaluation of the wound showed inflammation, granulation, and epithelization in all groups. The FGBF 2.5% group showed greater angiogenic potential. There was a significant difference between the surgical area of the wounds treated with FGBF 2.5%, 5%, or 10% compared to the group with the commercial phytotherapeutic gel. On histomorphometry of the skin, there were reepithelization of the epidermis and superficial dermis, longitudinal collagen fibers, fibroblasts, and blood vessels, and in the deeper dermis, fibroblasts, transverse and longitudinal collagen fibers, blood vessels, and inflammatory cells. The 2.5% formulation had the greatest increase in fibroblast proliferation and most intense collagenization on day 14 of treatment.(AU)

Este trabalho objetivou investigar os efeitos de uma formulação em gel da associação da Plectranthus neochilus e da Cnidoscolus quercifolius no processo de reparação tecidual em feridas cutâneas de ratos. Foi induzida uma ferida cirúrgica em 35 ratos Wistar, sendo tratadas de acordo com os grupos: G1 - fitoterápico comercial; G2 - gel de carbopol 1%; G3, G4 e G5 - formulação gel boldo-gambá mais favela (FGBF) 2,5%, 5% e 10%, respectivamente. Aplicou-se 1mL do produto, via tópica, diariamente, durante 14 dias. Na avaliação macroscópica das feridas, verificou-se inflamação, granulação e epitelização em todos os grupos. O grupo FGBF 2,5% apresentou maior potencial angiogênico. Houve diferença significativa entre as áreas cirúrgicas das feridas tratadas com os FGBF 2,5%, 5% ou 10%, comparados ao grupo com o gel fitoterápico comercial. Na histomorfometria da pele, observou-se reepitelização da epiderme e da derme superficial, fibras colágenas longitudinais, fibroblastos e vasos sanguíneos e, na derme profunda, fibroblastos, fibras colágenas transversais e longitudinais, vasos sanguíneos e células inflamatórias. A formulação a 2,5% teve o maior aumento na proliferação de fibroblastos e mais intensa colagenização no dia 14 de tratamento.(AU)

In-Vitro Antimicrobial Activity Of Biological Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia Strain Ns-24 From Non-Rhizosphere Soil

Objective: The present goals of our study were biological synthesis, characterizations of silver nanoparticles, and evaluation of its antimicrobial activity against microbial pathogens like Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Methods: The bacterial Strain NS-24 was isolated on nutrient agar medium and was selected for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles based on its gram-negative characteristics. The characterizations of silver nanoparticles were done by UV-Visible spectroscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), High Resolution-Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Later, the molecular characterization of the Strain NS-24 was done by DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: The UV-visible spectrophotometric observation of the Strain NS-24 supernatant and AgNO3 solution showed maximum absorbance at 423 nm. The AFM data confirmed that the particles were polydispersed and spherical in shape. Additionally, the FTIR analysis revealed the IR spectral band patterning and TEM analyzes showed the size of biological AgNPs was in the range of 12.56 nm to 27.32 nm, with an average of 18.06 nm in size. Further, the 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed the identity of Strain NS-24 as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was studied on different gram-negative and gram-positive bacterial strains like Escherichia coli (MTCC 40), Enterococcus faecalis (MTCC 6845), Streptococcus pneumoniae (MTCC 8874) and Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 2825), which showed good inhibition of their growth at varying concentrations of AgNPs against all the pathogens. Conclusion: Our findings showed that the synthesized AgNPs from the isolated bacterium was small in size and had profound antibacterial activity against pathogenic micro-organisms.

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the isatin derivative (Z)-2-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-N-phenyl-hydrazinecarbothioamide in mice

Several isatin derivatives have shown important biological activities, which have attracted interest from researchers. For this reason, the present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the isatin derivative (Z)-2-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-N-phenyl-hydrazinecarbothioamide (COPHCT) in mice. Three doses of this compound were tested: 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/kg. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model and the zymosan-induced air pouch model. The evaluation of the antinociceptive effect was performed through the formalin test and the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test. The paw edema assay demonstrated that all doses of the compound showed a significant reduction of the edema in the second hour evaluated, but a better response was observed in the fourth hour. The zymosan-induced air pouch model indicated that the compound, in all doses, significantly reduced leukocyte migration and total protein concentration levels. In the formalin test, the doses 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/kg of COPHCT showed activity only in the second phase, with reduction in paw pain time of 73.61, 79.46, and 73.85%, respectively. The number of abdominal writhings decreased with the increasing dose, but only 5.0 mg/kg COPHCT exhibited a significant response, with a reduction of 24.88%. These results demonstrated the ability of this compound to interfere in the anti-inflammatory activity of edema, vascular permeability, and cell migration. In addition, its possible antinociceptive effect may be related to the dose used.

Soil macrofauna density and diversity across a chronosequence of tropical forest restoration in Southeastern Brazil / Densidade e diversidade da macrofauna edáfica em uma cronosequência de florestas tropicais em restauração no Sudeste do Brasil

Abstract Edaphic macrofauna must be better studied if we want to take advantage of their full potential for the restoration of tropical ecosystems. We investigated changes in edaphic macrofauna density and diversity along a secondary succession chronosequence in the Atlantic Forest. Our results show some clear patterns of change in soil macrofauna along the chronosequence. Density did not increase along secondary succession, but was correlated with canopy cover. Diversity was characterized by high dominance of social insects and evenness among other groups. We conclude soil macrofauna has a high capacity to recolonize young forests and that its recovery is considerably fast compared to other ecosystem transformations.

Resumo A macrofauna edáfica deve ser mais bem estudada se quisermos aproveitar todo o seu potencial para a restauração de ecossistemas tropicais. Nós investigamos as mudanças de densidade e diversidade da macrofauna edáfica em uma cronossequência durante a sucessão secundária na Mata Atlântica. Nossos resultados mostram padrões claros de mudança. A densidade não aumentou ao longo da sucessão secundária, mas foi correlacionada com a cobertura de dossel. A diversidade foi caracterizada pela alta dominância de insetos sociais e equidade entre os demais grupos. Nós concluímos que a macrofauna edáfica tem alta capacidade de recolonizar florestas jovens e que sua recuperação é relativamente rápida se comparada a outras transformações ecossistêmicas.

Reproductive phenology of Mauritia flexuosa L. (Arecaceae) in a coastal restinga environment in northeastern Brazil / Fenologia reprodutiva de Mauritia flexuosa L. (Arecaceae) em ambiente de Restinga no Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The buriti, Mauritia flexuosa, is the most common palm in Brazil, where it has considerable ecological and economic importance. However, few data are available on the phenology of the species, mainly in coastal restinga ecosystems. The present study monitored the reproductive phenology of M. flexuosa in the restinga of Barreirinhas, in the Brazilian Northeast, and investigated the relationship between phenophases and climatic variables. The presence/absence of flowers and fruits was recorded monthly in 25 individuals of each sex between August, 2009, and October, 2012. There was no difference in the phenology of male and female specimens, with flowering and fruiting occurring exclusively in the dry season. We believe that the specific abiotic characteristics of the study environment, such as the intense sunlight and availability of water in the soil, contribute to the reproductive success of M. flexuosa in the dry season, with consequent germination and establishment of seedlings occurring during the subsequent rainy season.

Resumo Popularmente conhecido como buriti, Mauritia flexuosa é a palmeira mais abundante no Brasil, com grande importância ecológica e econômica, porém ainda são poucos os estudos sobre a sua fenologia, não existindo nenhum em ambiente de Restinga. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a fenologia reprodutiva de M. flexuosa na Restinga de Barreirinhas, no Nordeste do Brasil, verificando como as fenofases se correlacionam com os fatores climáticos. Foram acompanhados mensalmente 25 indivíduos de cada sexo, de agosto/2009 a outubro/2012, verificando a presença/ausência de floração e frutificação. Não houve diferença no padrão fenológico entre indivíduos femininos e masculinos de M. flexuosa, com floração e queda dos frutos exclusivamente na estação seca. Acreditamos que as características abióticas específicas do ambiente estudado, como a forte incidência solar e a disponibilidade de água no solo, contribuíram para o sucesso reprodutivo de M. flexuosa na estação seca, com consequente germinação e estabelecimento de plântulas no período chuvoso.

Soil macrofauna density and diversity across a chronosequence of tropical forest restoration in Southeastern Brazil

Abstract Edaphic macrofauna must be better studied if we want to take advantage of their full potential for the restoration of tropical ecosystems. We investigated changes in edaphic macrofauna density and diversity along a secondary succession chronosequence in the Atlantic Forest. Our results show some clear patterns of change in soil macrofauna along the chronosequence. Density did not increase along secondary succession, but was correlated with canopy cover. Diversity was characterized by high dominance of social insects and evenness among other groups. We conclude soil macrofauna has a high capacity to recolonize young forests and that its recovery is considerably fast compared to other ecosystem transformations.

Resumo A macrofauna edáfica deve ser mais bem estudada se quisermos aproveitar todo o seu potencial para a restauração de ecossistemas tropicais. Nós investigamos as mudanças de densidade e diversidade da macrofauna edáfica em uma cronossequência durante a sucessão secundária na Mata Atlântica. Nossos resultados mostram padrões claros de mudança. A densidade não aumentou ao longo da sucessão secundária, mas foi correlacionada com a cobertura de dossel. A diversidade foi caracterizada pela alta dominância de insetos sociais e equidade entre os demais grupos. Nós concluímos que a macrofauna edáfica tem alta capacidade de recolonizar florestas jovens e que sua recuperação é relativamente rápida se comparada a outras transformações ecossistêmicas.

Conflicto psíquico y transformaciones simbólicas en niños y adolescentes con problemas de aprendizaje / Psychical conflicts and symbolic transformations in children and adolescents with learning problems

Los sujetos con problemas de aprendizaje presentan restricciones simbólicas que se sostienen en conflictivas psíquicas irresueltas en distintos momentos constitutivos, en los que se configuran modalidades fallidas de simbolización que caracterizan posteriormente su actividad representativa (sus formas de narrar, dibujar, leer o escribir). El tratamiento psicopedagógico grupal propone un encuadre clínico que favorece la actualización de esos enquistamientos y se centra en tareas representacionales que propician la elaboración de las conflictivas y el despliegue de recursos simbólicos. Este artículo sintetiza los principales resultados de la investigación “Transformaciones en los procesos de simbolización de niños y adolescentes con problemas de aprendizaje” cuyo objetivo fue caracterizar las principales modificaciones encontradas en la producción simbólica de sujetos con dificultades de aprendizaje que asistieron durante dos años a tratamiento psicopedagógico grupal, a partir de la elaboración de dimensiones de análisis y descriptores clínicos que posibilitaron interpretar la movilidad de procesos psíquicos complejos involucrados en el despliegue de la actividad representativa...

Estabelecimento in vitro e micropropagação de maracujá silvestre (Passiflora foetida L. ) / In vitro establishment and micropropagation of Passiflora foetida L

Entre as espécies do gênero Passiflora, a P. foetida L. apresenta a maior variabilidade genética e tem grande importância medicinal, pois é usada no tratamento de doenças como asma, icterícia, e na forma de emplastros, para as erisipelas e doenças de pele com inflamação. Portanto, são necessários estudos que visem a micropropagação e conservação. As sementes de P. foetida L. apresentam dormência e muitas vezes, levam alguns meses para germinar, produzindo mudas desuniformes e de baixo vigor. Neste sentido, a cultura de tecidos apresenta-se como uma forma alternativa a propagação. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho foi estabelecer e micropropagar P. foetida L., para formação de um banco de germoplasma. Para tanto, sementes foram escarificadas, desinfestadas e inoculadas em meio MS(½) sem reguladores de crescimento e cultivados por 66 dias. Explantes de hipocótilos obtidos de plantas germinadas in vitro, foram cultivados no mesmo meio suplementado com 1,0 mg L-1 de BAP. Na fase de estabelecimento, 45% dos explantes brotaram e formaram gemas axilares. 88,9% dos explantes de hipocótilo induziram brotação e 11,1% produziram calos. Plântulas regeneradas com 1,82 cm de altura, com raízes foram aclimatadas.

Among the species of the genus Passiflora, P. foetida L. presents highest genetic variability and also great medicinal importance. This species is used in the treatment of diseases such as asthma, jaundice, and in the form of poultices for erysipelas and skin diseases with inflammation. Therefore, studies are needed to preserve them. Its seeds present dormancy and often take several months to germinate. The tissue culture is a alternative form to propagate species. The objective was to establish and micropropagation P. foetida L., and create a germplasm bank. Seeds were scarified, disinfected, and inoculated on MS medium (½) without regulators for 66 days. Hypocotyls explants obtained of seedlings in vitro germinated were transferred and placed in the same medium supplemented with BAP (1,0 mg L-1). In the establishment phase of 45% of the explants sprouted and formed axillary buds. 88,9% of hypocotyl explants induced shoots and 11,1% produced callus. Seedling measuring 1,82 cm length and rooted were acclimatized.

Caracterização de frutos e sementes em acessos de maracujá silvestre (Passiflora foetida L. ) / Characterization of fruits and seeds of wild passion fruit (Passiflora foetida L. )

A espécie Passiflora foetida L.é uma trepadeira exótica cujas folhas e frutos possuem propriedades medicinais. No Brasil, a erva é utilizada na forma de extratos ou emplastros para erisipelas e doenças de pele com inflamação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar cinco acessos de Passiflora foetida L. baseados em 17 descritores morfológicos O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com 15 repetições por genótipo. As variáveis analisadas foram cor da casca do fruto, formato do fruto, comprimento do fruto, diâmetro do fruto, massa fresca do fruto, comprimento do pedicelo, cor da polpa do fruto, espessura da casca, acidez titulável, sólidos solúveis, potencial hidrogeniônico, razão sólidos solúveis/ acidez titulável, comprimento da semente, diâmetro da semente, espessura da semente, massa fresca das sementes e o número de sementes por fruto. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste de médias pelo teste Tukey a 5 por cento de probabilidade. Houve diferença significativa pelo teste F a 5 por cento de probabilidade, entre os genótipos para quase todas as características com exceção da espessura da casca, massa fresca do fruto, comprimento da semente e massa fresca das sementes. A característica que apresentou maior variação foi o teor de sólidos solúveis. E entre os genótipos, o acesso 5 foi o que apresentou as maiores médias pelo teste de Tukey a 5 por cento de probabilidade, em todas as características analisadas, podendo ser utilizado em programas de melhoramento da espécie.

The species Passiflora foetida L. é an exotic vine, which leaves and fruit have medicinal properties. In Brazil, the herbis used in the form of extracts or poultices for erysipelas and skin diseases with inflammation. The aim of this study was to characterize five Passiflora foetida L. accessions based on 17 morphological descriptors The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a completely randomized design with 15 replicates per genotype. The variables were the fruit skin color, fruit shape, fruit length, fruit diameter, fresh fruit, length of pedicel, flesh color of the fruit, skin thickness, acidity, soluble solids, hydrogen potential ratio soluble solids / acidity, seed length, seed diameter, thickness of seed, fresh seed and seed number per fruit. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and the means were compared by Tukey test at 5 percent of probability. There was a significant difference by F test at 5 percent,of probability among the genotypes for nearly all traits, except the thickness of the shell, fresh fruit mass, seed length and fresh weight of seed. The variable that most variation was the soluble solids. The genotype 5 had the highest means by Tukey test at 5 percent of probability on all characteristics that can be used in breeding programs of the species.

Ethnicity and glutathione S-transferase (GSTM1/GSTT1) polymorphisms in a Brazilian population

The distribution of polymorphisms related to glutathione S-transferases (GST) has been described in different populations, mainly for white individuals. We evaluated the distribution of GST mu (GSTM1) and theta (GSTT1) genotypes in 594 individuals, by multiplex PCR-based methods, using amplification of the exon 7 of CYP1A1 gene as an internal control. In São Paulo, 233 whites, 87 mulattos, and 137 blacks, all healthy blood-donor volunteers, were tested. In Bahia, where black and mulatto populations are more numerous, 137 subjects were evaluated. The frequency of the GSTM1 null genotype was significantly higher among whites (55.4 percent) than among mulattos (41.4 percent; P = 0.03) and blacks (32.8 percent; P < 0.0001) from São Paulo, or Bahian subjects in general (35.7 percent; P = 0.0003). There was no statistically different distribution among any non-white groups. The distribution of GSTT1 null genotype among groups did not differ significantly. The agreement between self-reported and interviewer classification of skin color in the Bahian group was low. The interviewer classification indicated a gradient of distribution of the GSTM1 null genotype from whites (55.6 percent) to light mulattos (40.4 percent), dark mulattos (32.0 percent) and blacks (28.6 percent). However, any information about race or ethnicity should be considered with caution regarding the bias introduced by different data collection techniques, specially in countries where racial admixture is intense, and ethnic definition boundaries are loose. Because homozygous deletions of GST gene might be associated with cancer risk, a better understanding of chemical metabolizing gene distribution can contribute to risk assessment of humans exposed to environmental carcinogens.

Acute leukemias in Piauí: comparison with features observed in other regions of Brazil

Differences in age and sex distribution as well as FAB (French-American-British classification) types have been reported for acute leukemias in several countries. We studied the demographics and response to treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) between 1989 and 2000 in Teresina, Piauí, and compared these results with reports from Brazil and other countries. Complete data concerning 345 patients (230 ALL, 115 AML) were reviewed. AML occurred predominantly in adults (77 percent), with a median age of 34 years, similar to that found in the southeast of Brazil but lower than the median age in the United States and Europe (52 years). FAB distribution was similar in children and adults and FAB-M2 was the most common type, as also found in Japan. The high frequency of FAB-M3 described in most Brazilian studies and for Hispanics in the United States was not observed. Overall survival for adults was 40 percent, similar to other studies in Brazil. A high mortality rate was observed during induction. No clinical or hematological parameter influenced survival in the Cox model. ALL presented the characteristic peak of incidence between 2-8 years. Most of the cases were CD10+ pre-B ALL. In 25 percent, abnormal expression of myeloid antigens was observed. Only 10 percent of the patients were older than 30 years. Overall survival was better for children. Age and leukocyte count were independent prognostic factors. These data demonstrate that, although there are regional peculiarities, the application of standardized treatments and good supportive care make it possible to achieve results observed in other countries for the same chemotherapy protocols

Community of male Euglossini bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in a secondary forest, Alcântara, MA, Brazil

From September, 92 to August, 93 bee sampling was done in a secondary forest near the Pepital River, in Alcântara, MA, in order to study the local Euglossini fauna. Five aromatic compounds were used: eucaliptol, eugenol, methyl salicylate, vanillin, and benzoate. Four hundred sixty-seven male Euglossini bees were captured, distributed in 4 genus and 19 species. Euglossa was the most abundant and with high diversity (302 specimens and 14 species), followed by Eulaema (121; 3), Eufriesea (41; 1), and Exaerete (3; 1). The species which more frequently visited the bait were Euglossa piliventris (141 specimens; 30.19%), Euglossa cingulata (113; 24.21%), Euglossa ignita (45; 9.64%), Eufriesea pulchra (41; 8.78%), and Euglossa gaianii (33; 7.07%) corresponding to 79.88% of the sampling universe. The bees were active throught the year, however during the rainy season more activity and diversity were observed. The most attractive essence was eucaliptol (44.32% specimens and 84.21% species). In spite of this study having been done in a forest fragment, a secondary vegetation area smaller than other areas studied in Maranhão, it showed a significant diversity rate. This result reinforces the importance of fragments in the conservation of local bee communities.

De setembro/92 a agosto/93, foram feitas coletas em uma área de vegetação secundária, próxima ao rio Pepital, Alcântara, MA, com o objetivo de conhecer a fauna de Euglossini local. Foram coletados 467 machos, 4 gêneros e 19 espécies. Euglossa foi o gênero mais abundante e com maior número de espécies (302 indivíduos, 14 espécies), seguido de Eulaema (121; 3), Eufriesea (41; 1) e Exaerete (3; 1). As espécies que mais se destacaram em visita às iscas-odores foram: Euglossa piliventris (141 ind.; 30,19% do total de abelhas coletadas), Eulaema cingulata (113; 24,21%), Euglossa ignita (45; 9,64%), Eufriesea pulchra (41; 8,78%) e Euglossa gaianii (33; 7,07%) representando 79,88% do universo amostral. Foram ativas durante todo o ano, entretanto, foram observadas maior atividade e maior diversidade de abelhas em visita às essências no período chuvoso. A essência que atraiu o maior número de espécies e indivíduos foi o Eucaliptol (84,21% e 44,32%, respectivamente). O sítio de estudos, embora apresentasse vegetação secundária, cuja área amostrada foi menor do que outras áreas já estudadas no Maranhão, revelou uma significativa diversidade de Euglossini. Tal resultado reforça a importância dos fragmentos na manutenção das comunidades de abelhas na região.

Community of male Euglossini bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in a secondary forest, Alcântara, MA, Brazil

From September, 92 to August, 93 bee sampling was done in a secondary forest near the Pepital River, in Alc⮴ara, MA, in order to study the local Euglossini fauna. Five aromatic compounds were used: eucaliptol, eugenol, methyl salicylate, vanillin, and benzoate. Four hundred sixty-seven male Euglossini bees were captured, distributed in 4 genus and 19 species. Euglossa was the most abundant and with high diversity (302 specimens and 14 species), followed by Eulaema (121; 3), Eufriesea (41; 1), and Exaerete (3; 1). The species which more frequently visited the bait were Euglossa piliventris (141 specimens; 30.19 percent), Euglossa cingulata (113; 24.21 percent), Euglossa ignita (45; 9.64 percent), Eufriesea pulchra (41; 8.78 percent), and Euglossa gaianii (33; 7.07 percent) corresponding to 79.88 percent of the sampling universe. The bees were active throught the year, however during the rainy season more activity and diversity were observed. The most attractive essence was eucaliptol (44.32 percent specimens and 84.21 percent species). In spite of this study having been done in a forest fragment, a secondary vegetation area smaller than other areas studied in Maranh䯬 it showed a significant diversity rate. This result reinforces the importance of fragments in the conservation of local bee communities

Decreased gastric emptying and gastrointestinal and intestinal transits of liquid after complete spinal cord transection in awake rats

We studied the effect of complete spinal cord transection (SCT) on gastric emptying (GE) and on gastrointestinal (GI) and intestinal transits of liquid in awake rats using the phenol red method. Male Wistar rats (N = 65) weighing 180-200 g were fasted for 24 h and complete SCT was performed between C7 and T1 vertebrae after a careful midline dorsal incision. GE and GI and intestinal transits were measured 15 min, 6 h or 24 h after recovery from anesthesia. A test meal (0.5 mg/ml phenol red in 5 percent glucose solution) was administered intragastrically (1.5 ml) and the animals were sacrificed by an iv thiopental overdose 10 min later to evaluate GE and GI transit. For intestinal transit measurements, 1 ml of the test meal was administered into the proximal duodenum through a cannula inserted into a gastric fistula. GE was inhibited (P<0.05) by 34.3, 23.4 and 22.7 percent, respectively, at 15 min, 6 h and 24 h after SCT. GI transit was inhibited (P<0.05) by 42.5, 19.8 and 18.4 percent, respectively, at 15 min, 6 h and 24 h after SCT. Intestinal transit was also inhibited (P<0.05) by 48.8, 47.2 and 40.1 percent, respectively, at 15 min, 6 h and 24 h after SCT. Mean arterial pressure was significantly decreased (P<0.05) by 48.5, 46.8 and 41.5 percent, respectively, at 15 min, 6 h and 24 h after SCT. In summary, our report describes a decreased GE and GI and intestinal transits in awake rats within the first 24 h after high SCT

Effect of pyloroplasty and fundectomy on the delay of gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit of liquid elicited by acute blood volume expansion in awake rats

We evaluated the effects of fundectomy and pyloroplasty on the delay of gastric emptying (GE) and gastrointestinal (GI) transit of liquid due to blood volume (BV) expansion in awake rats. Male Wistar rats (N=76, 180-250 g) were first submitted to fundectomy (N=26), Heinecke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty (N=25) or SHAM laparotomy (N=25). After 6 days, the left external jugular vein was cannulated and the animals were fasted for 24 h with water ad libitum. The test meal was administered intragastrically (1.5 ml of a phenol red solution, 0.5 mg/ml in 5 percent glucose) to normovolemic control animals and to animals submitted to BV expansion (Ringer-bicarbonate, iv infusion, 1 ml/min, volume up to 5 percent body weight). BV expansion decreased GE and GI transit rates in SHAM laparotomized animals by 52 and 35.9 percent (P<0.05). Fundectomy increased GE and GI transit rates by 61.1 and 67.7 percent (P<0.05) and prevented the effect of expansion on GE but not on GI transit (13.9 percent reduction, P<0.05). Pyloroplasty also increased GE and GI transit rates by 33.9 and 44.8 percent (P<0.05) but did not prevent the effect of expansion on GE or GI transit (50.7 and 21.1. percent reduction, P<0.05). Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy blocked the effect of expansion on GE and GI transit in both SHAM laparotomized animals and animals submitted to pyloroplasty. In conclusion 1) the proximal stomach is involved in the GE delay due to BV expansion but is not essential for the establishment of a delay in GI transit, which suggests the activation of intestinal resistances, 2) pyloric modulation was not apparent, and 3) vagal pathways are involved.

Gastroduodenal resistance and neural mechanisms involved in saline flow decrease elicited by acute blood volume expansion in anesthetized rats

We have previously demonstrated that blood volume (BV) expansion decreases saline flow through the gastroduodenal (GD) segment in anesthetized rats (Xavier-Neto J, dos Santos AA & Rola FH (1990) Gut, 31: 1006-1010). The present study attempts to identify the site(s) of resistance and neural mechanisms involved in this phenomenon. Male Wistar rats (N = 97,200-300 g) were surgically manipulated to create four gut circuits: GD, gastric, pyloric and duodenal. These circuits were perfused under barostatically controlled pressure (4 cmH2O). Steadysate changes in flow were taken to reflect modifications in circuit resistances during three periods of time: normovolemic control (20 min), expansion (10-15 min), and expanded (30 min). Perfusion flow rates did not change in normovolemic control animals over a period of 60 min. BV expansion (Ringer bicarbonate, 1 ml/min up to 5 percent body weight) significantly (p<0.05) reduced perfusion flow in the GD (10.3 + 0.5 to 7.6 + 0.6 ml/min), pyloric (9.0 + 0.6 to 5.6 + 1.2 ml/min) and duodenal (10.8 + 0.4 to 9.0 + 0.6 ml/min) circuits, but not in the gastric circuit (11.9 + 0.4 to 10.4 + 0.6 ml/min). Prazosin (1 mg/kg) and yohimbine (3 mg/kg) prevented the expansion effect on the duodenal but not on the pyloric circuit. Bilateral cervical vagotomy prevented the expansion effect on the pylorus during the expansion but not during the expanded period and had no effect on the duodenum. Atropine (0.5 mg/kg), hexamethonium (10 mg/kg) and propranolol (2 mg/kg) were ineffective on both circuits. These results indicate that 1) BV expansion increases the GD resistance to liquid flow, 2) pylorus and duodenum are important sites of resistance, and 3) yohimbine and prazosin prevented the increase in duodenal resistance and vagotomy prevented it partially in the pylorus.

Neurobehavioral development of rats exposed to toluene through maternal milk

Organic solvents have been detected in the milk of workers in the rubber industry exposed during gestation to a mixture of solvents at average concentrations lower than the currently accepted occupational limit of exposure (100ppm). The objective of the present study was to determine if exposure of rat offspring to toluene during laction, through maternal milk, would affect the developing brain. There month old, lactating Wistar rats were injedted with toluene (1.2 g/Kg, sc, N = 10) daily from laction day 2(day of delivery - day 1) to day 21. Controls (N=9) were injected with the vehicle (c0rn oil). Offspring (7 pups per litter) were evaluated form neurosomatic development and exploratory behavior before weaning and behavior in the open field. A second group of toluene treated ratas (N=6) and controls (N=6) was used to evaluate behavior of the offspring in the open-field on day 35 and performance in a shuttle box in adulthood. Toluene levels in blood and milk after a single 1.2 g/Kg sc injection were studied in a third group of rats on laction day 10. Toluene levels in milk 4 h after a single injection (10.3ñ6.2) were 5 times higher than in blood (2.1ñ0.8). No effects of treatment on offspring development or on any of the behavioral tests were observed. Sex differences were observed in open-field behavior and performance in the shuttle box. The present results suggest that exposure of pups to high concentrations of toluene through maternal milk does not result in blood levels high enough to affect growth or development