Relaxation of thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) by endothelium-derived 6-nitrodopamine

6-Nitrodopamine is a novel catecholamine released by vascular tissues, heart, and vas deferens. The aim of this study was to investigate whether 6-nitrodopamine is released from the thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) and to evaluate the relaxing and anti-contractile actions of this catecholamine. Release of 6-nitrodopamine, dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline was assessed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The relaxations induced by 6-nitrodopamine and by the selective dopamine D2 receptor antagonist L-741,626 were evaluated on U-46619 (3 nM)-pre-contracted vessels. The effects of 6-nitrodopamine and L-741,626 on the contractions induced by electric-field stimulation (EFS), dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline were also investigated. Both aorta and pulmonary artery rings exhibited endothelium-dependent release of 6-nitrodopamine, which was significantly reduced by the NO synthesis inhibitor L-NAME. Addition of 6-nitrodopamine or L-741,626 caused concentration-dependent relaxations of both vascular tissues, which were almost abolished by endothelium removal, whereas L-NAME and the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ had no effect on 6-nitrodopamine-induced relaxations. Additionally, pre-incubation with 6-nitrodopamine antagonized the dopamine-induced contractions, without affecting the noradrenaline- and adrenaline-induced contractions. Pre-incubation with L-741,626 antagonized the contractions induced by all catecholamines. The EFS-induced contractions were significantly increased by L-NAME, but unaffected by ODQ. Immunohistochemical assays showed no immunostaining of the neural tissue markers S-100 and calretinin in either vascular tissue. The results indicated that 6-nitrodopamine is the major catecholamine released by marmoset vascular tissues, and it acts as a potent and selective antagonist of dopamine D2-like receptors. 6-nitrodopamine release may be the major mechanism by which NO causes vasodilatation.

Patterns of renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor activity in an animal model of survival to experimental sepsis

Sepsis causes long-term disability, such as immune dysfunction, neuropsychological disorders, persistent inflammation, catabolism, and immunosuppression, leading to a high risk of death in survivors, although the contributing factors of mortality are unknown. The purpose of this experimental study in rats was to examine renal (rSNA) and splanchnic (sSNA) sympathetic nerve activity, as well as baroreflex sensitivity, in acute and chronic post-sepsis periods. The rats were divided into two groups: control group with naïve Wistar rats and sepsis group with 2-mL intravenous inoculation of Escherichia coli at 108 CFU/mL. Basal mean arterial pressure, heart rate, rSNA, sSNA, and baroreflex sensitivity were evaluated in all groups at the acute (6 h) and chronic periods (1 and 3 months). Basal rSNA and sSNA were significantly reduced in the surviving rats, as was their baroreflex sensitivity, for both pressor and hypotensive responses, and this effect lasted for up to 3 months. A single episode of sepsis in rats was enough to induce long-term alterations in renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor nerve activity, representing a possible systemic event that needs to be elucidated. These findings showed that post-sepsis impairment of sympathetic vasomotor response may be one of the critical components in the inability of sepsis survivors to respond effectively to new etiological illness factors, thereby increasing their risk of post-sepsis morbidity.

Aplicación de un árbol de decisión difusa con clasificación de ambigüedad para determinar el exceso de peso en escolares / Application of a fuzzy decision tree with ambiguity classification to determine excess weight in schoolchildren

RESUMEN La técnica del árbol de decisiones en las ciencias de la salud sirve para comprender las correlaciones entre las descripciones de los pacientes y para clasificar de forma precisa en diversas categorías. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la exactitud de la clasificación del exceso de peso de escolares mediante la aplicación de un árbol de decisión difusa, utilizando una base de datos de Itaupú, Paraná (Brasil). Se utilizó la base de datos de una muestra conformada por 5962 estudiantes (3024 del sexo femenino y 2938 del sexo masculino), con un rango de edad entre los 6 a 17 años de edad. Las variables consideradas fueron peso, estatura y el Índice de Masa Corporal (IMC). Para clasificar los datos antropométricos de los escolares se utilizó un árbol de decisión difusa. Los resultados del aprendizaje mostraron una clasificación correcta en el sexo femenino de 2688 y en el sexo masculino de 2471 registros respectivamente. En relación a la exactitud, se determinó 84% en el sexo masculino y 89% en el sexo femenino. El Área Bajo la curva mostró valores más altos en el método Difuso y en ambos sexos (0.965-0.983), mientras que en el método clásico, fueron inferiores (0.804-0.895). De acuerdo a los resultados calculados es posible aplicar el árbol de decisión difusa para la clasificación de escolares con exceso de peso con una exactitud aceptable, además se presenta como una técnica alternativa que puede ahorrar tiempo a la hora de analizar el estado nutricional, sin embargo, no se realizó otros cálculos estadísticos que tengan que ver con la precisión y exactitud a través de métodos estadísticos convencionales y comparar con la técnica de árboles difusos.

ABSTRACT The decision tree technique in the health sciences serves to understand the correlations between the descriptions of patients and to classify accurately in various categories. The aim of the study was to analyze the accuracy of the classification of excess weight of schoolchildren through the application of a fuzzy decision tree, using a database of Itaupú, Paraná (Brazil). We used the database of a sample consisting of 5962 students (3024 female and 2938 male), with an age range between 6 to 17 years of age. The variables considered were weight, height and the Body Mass Index (BMI). To classify the anthropometric data of the students, a diffuse decision tree was used. The learning results showed a correct classification in the female sex of 2688 and in the male sex of 2471 records respectively. In relation to accuracy, 84% was determined in the male sex and 89% in the female sex. The Area under the curve showed higher values in the Fuzzy method and in both sexes (0.965-0.983), while in the classical method, they were lower (0.804-0.895). According to the calculated results it is possible to apply the fuzzy decision tree for the classification of overweight students with an acceptable accuracy, and it is presented as an alternative technique that can save time when analyzing the nutritional status, however, no other statistical calculations were made that have to do with the precision and accuracy through conventional statistical methods and compare with the technique of fuzzy trees.

La Escuela de Enfermería UC ante la ley que despenaliza el aborto: responde si al cuidado de los vulnerables / The Nursing School UC before the law that dispenalizes abortion: answer yes to the care of the vulnerable

En Chile el tema de la despenalización del aborto en sus tres causales ha abierto un nuevo horizonte de análisis y reflexión para los sectores de salud y educación en términos de formación de nuevos profesionales. Esto ha impulsado a los profesores de la Escuela de Enfermería de la Universidad Católica a reflexionar al respecto, teniendo en consideración sus valores, antecedentes históricos, el perfil del egresado de la Carrera y el marco antropológico filosófico que guía nuestro actuar como profesionales de enfermería y enfermería obstétrica. El objetivo del presente documento es compartir la postura de la Escuela de Enfermería frente al proyecto de ley que despenaliza el aborto en Chile, considerando que este es un tema complejo y controversial en todo el mundo, incluso en aquellos países en que existen leyes que lo permiten. Es por esto que como Escuela de Enfermería en la que se forman futuros profesionales que se enfrentarán a este posible escenario sanitario, se ha querido contribuir a la reflexión de este tema importante y directamente relacionado a las buenas prácticas y el cuidado de las personas. Se debe tener presente que el cuidado de enfermería, debe orientarse a velar por la vida, cuidar y tutelar a la persona en su dignidad desde el momento de la concepción, a través de todo el ciclo de vida y, sobre todo, en momentos de mayor vulnerabilidad.

In Chile, a decriminalization of abortion has been under discussion for some three years in a bill proposed. This has animated the professors of the School of Nursing of the Catholic University to reflect on this, taking into consideration their values, historical background, career profile and the philosophical anthropological framework that guides our acting as nursing professionals in the scope of good practices in the care of people. The objective of this document is to share the position of the School of Nursing in front of the bill that decriminalizes abortion in Chile, considering that this is an ethical and controversial topic worldwide, even in countries where there are laws that allow. This is why as a Nursing School in which future professionals are trained to face this possible health scenario, we wanted to contribute to the reflection of this important and complex issue. It should be borne in mind that nursing care should be oriented to care for life, to care for and protect the person in his dignity from the moment of conception, throughout the life cycle and, especially, in moments of Greater vulnerability.

Riesgos psicosociales: nuevos escenarios de organización del trabajo y su efecto en la salud de los trabajadores de una empresa chilena del área portuaria / Psychosocial risks: new scenarios of labor organization and its effect on the health of dockworkers at a port in Chile

La actividad portuaria se desarrolla dentro de un contexto donde la salud de los trabajadores se ve constantemente expuesta, dadas las múltiples situaciones peligrosas que conlleva esta actividad. Es en este contexto que las altas presiones ejercidas por la organización, traducidas en la constante presión por movilizar el mayor número de carga y cumplir con rendimientos de productividad, sumado a las relaciones interpersonales, el contenido del trabajo y la realización de la tarea, entre otras, pueden afectar tanto al desarrollo del trabajo como a la salud del trabajador, lo cual se conoce como riesgos psicosociales. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar el nivel de riesgo psicosocial de los trabajadores de diferentes áreas de un puerto del norte de Chile. Se diseñó un estudio descriptivo, de corte transversal, sobre 298 trabajadores, seleccionados mediante un muestreo no probabilístico. Se aplicó el instrumento SUSESO ISTAS-21, versión corta de la superintendencia de seguridad social del gobierno de Chile. En cuanto a las secciones en las que los trabajadores desempeñan sus funciones, el porcentaje mayor correspondió a personal operativo con un 45,3 por ciento (135), y el menor fue AG. Con un 9,1 por ciento (27). Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las distintas áreas en las dimensiones exigencias psicológicas, trabajo activo y desarrollo de habilidades y compensación. Para futuras investigaciones e intervenciones organizacionales se sugiere la incorporación de metodologías de trabajo cualitativas. Se concluye que el personal portuario presenta una elevada exposición de riesgos psicosociales en el ambiente laboral.

The port activity is developed within a context where the health of the workers is constantly exposed, giving the multiple dangerous situations that this activity entails. Is in this context that the high demands that the organization requires traduced in the constant pressure to mobilize the most amount of load and achieve with the productivity requirements, added to the interpersonal relations, the workload, the realization of the task, among others; might affect the development of the task, like, as well, the health of the worker, this is known like psychosocial risk. The objective of this research is to determine the level of psychosocial risks at the workplace of members in different areas at a port in the north of Chile. A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out on 298 workers, who were selected through a non-probability based sampling. An abridged version of the SUSESO ISTAS -21 (instrument provided by the government of Chile), was applied. Regarding the sections in which workers perform their duties, the highest percentage corresponded to operational staff with a 45.3 percent (135) and the lowest to management and administration with a 9.1 percent (27). Significant statistical differences between the areas were found in the dimensions of psychological requirements, active work & skill development, and compensation. For future research and interventions, it is recommended to incorporate qualitative work methodologies to do a more detailed analysis. Data suggests that port workers have high exposure to psychosocial risks in their workplace.

Avaliação do potencial antioxidante frente à oxidação lipídica e da toxicidade preliminar do extrato e frações obtidas das frondes de Dicksonia sellowiana (Presl. ) Hook / Evaluation of antioxidant potential against lipid oxidation and preliminary toxicity of extract and fractions obtained from the fronds of Dicksonia sellowiana (Presl. ) Hook

RESUMOA espécie Dicksonia sellowiana, conhecida popularmente como xaxim, é uma samambaia natural do continente americano e encontrada no Brasil na Mata Atlântica. Em 2001 foi inserida na lista do IBAMA como espécie ameaçada de extinção em decorrência da exploração para a confecção de vasos para a jardinagem. O presente trabalho descreve o potencial antioxidante lipídico (TBARS e Sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoleico) do extrato bruto e frações obtidos através de aparato de Soxhlet de frondes de Dicksonia sellowiana, além da atividade citotóxica e hemolítica in vitro. Pelo método TBARS, todas as amostras testadas apresentaram atividade, destacando a fração acetato de etila e extrato bruto cuja atividade foi comparável ao padrão ácido ascórbico. No sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoleico, a fração acetato de etila e extrato bruto apresentaram inibição da oxidação do ácido linoleico, destaque para a fração acetato de etila que não se diferenciou estatisticamente do padrão BHT. Na avaliação da toxicidade preliminar, não fora observado atividade citotóxica e hemolítica do extrato bruto e frações nos modelos testados. Os resultados demonstram o potencial antioxidante da espécie vegetal nos modelos de inibição da oxidação lipídica sem apresentar toxicidade.

ABSTRACTThe species Dicksonia sellowiana, popularly known as tree fern, are a natural fern from American continent found in the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. In 2001 it was added to the list of IBAMA as endangered species due to its exploitation for pots craft for gardening species. This paper describes the antioxidant lipid potential (TBARS and System β-carotene / linoleic acid) of the crude extract and fractions obtained by Soxhlet apparatus of Dicksonia sellowianafronds, besides the cytotoxic and hemolytic activity in vitro. By the TBARS method, all samples tested showed activity, particularly the fraction ethyl acetate and the crude extract whose activity was comparable to standard ascorbic acid. In the system β-carotene / linoleic acid, the fraction of ethyl acetate and crude extract inhibited the oxidation of linoleic acid, especially the ethyl acetate fraction which did not differ statistically from the standard BHT. In a preliminary assessment of toxicity,cytotoxic and hemolytic activity of crude extracts and fractions in the tested models were not observed. The results of this study indicate the antioxidant potential of this plant species in models of inhibiting lipid oxidation without producing toxicity.

Relação proteína: carboidrato no desempenho e metabolismo de juvenis de pacamã (Lophiosilurus alexandri) / Ratio protein: carbohydrate on performance and metabolism of Juvenile (Lophiosilurus alexandri)

Objetivou-se neste estudo verificar o melhor nível de inclusão entre proteína e carboidrato no desempenho e algumas respostas metabólicas em juvenis de pacamã (Lophiosilurus alexandri). Testaram-se quatro dietas com as relações proteína/carboidrato (PB:CHO) 1,24; 0,84; 0,51 e 0,33 durante 60 dias. Foram utilizados 240 juvenis de pacamã pesando inicialmente 1,90g, alimentados duas vezes ao dia (8% da biomassa). Avaliou-se o ganho de peso total, taxa de crescimento específico, consumo de ração aparente, conversão alimentar aparente, rendimento de carcaça e gordura visceral. Glicemia, aminoácidos totais livres no plasma e glicogênio hepático também foram avaliados. A relação PB:CHO influenciou (P<0,05) os parâmetros de desempenho e metabolismo, exceto o glicogênio hepático. Maiores concentrações de glicose e aminoácidos totais livres no plasma foram observadas nos peixes que se alimentaram com a dieta contendo a maior relação PB:CHO (1,24). Além disso, observaram-se melhores médias de ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento específico e conversão alimentar aparente. Maiores percentuais de gordura visceral e menor rendimento de carcaça foram observados nos animais submetidos à dieta composta pela menor relação PB:CHO (0,33). Pode-se concluir que a dieta com a relação PB:CHO de 1,24 promoveu melhor desempenho e respostas metabólicas em juvenis de pacamã...

The aim of this study was to determine the best level of inclusion between protein and carbohydrate on performance and some metabolic responses in juvenile pacamã (Lophiosilurus alexandri). We tested four diets regarding protein/carbohydrate (PB: CHO) 1.24, 0.84, 0.51 and 0.33 for 60 days. The experiment was conducted with 240 juvenile pacamã initially weighing 1.90g, fed twice daily (8% of the biomass). We evaluated the total weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, feed conversion, carcass yield and visceral fat. Glucose, total plasma free amino acids and liver glycogen were also evaluated. The relationship PB: CHO influenced (P <0.05) the performance and metabolism parameters except the liver glycogen. Higher concentrations of glucose and total plasma free amino acids were observed in fish that were fed the diet containing the highest ratio PB: CHO (1.24); and we also observed better mean weight gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion. A higher percentage of visceral fat and lower carcass yield were observed in animals treated with diet composed by the lower ratio PB: CHO (0.33). We can conclude that a diet with a ratio PB: CHO of 1.24, promotes better performance and metabolic responses in juvenile pacamã...

Relação proteína: carboidrato no desempenho e no metabolismo de híbridos de Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum (fêmea) X Leiarius marmoratus (macho) / Evaluation of protein: carbohydrate ratio in the diet of hybrids of Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum (female) X Leiarius marmoratus (male)

Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, determinar a melhor relação entre proteína e carboidrato na dieta do híbrido carnívoro Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum e Leiarius marmoratus. Utilizou-se um sistema fechado de recirculação de água, composto de 12 caixas de 500L e biofiltro. Foram utilizados 144 juvenis (12/caixa) com peso médio inicial de 12,63±2,52g e comprimento total de 12,34±2,06cm durante 50 dias. Os peixes receberam quatro dietas contendo diferentes relações proteína:carboidrato (1,24; 0,84; 0,56 e 0,33). A relação proteína:carboidrato influenciou o desempenho e os parâmetros metabólicos dos animais. A melhor relação proteína:carboidrato para o desempenho foi 0,84. Os resultados metabólicos demonstraram mobilização de nutrientes para manutenção de glicemia e do crescimento. A relação proteína:carboidrato de 0,84 foi a mais indicada para o híbrido...

The purpose of this study was to determine the best protein:carbohydrate ratio in this hybrid's diet. A water recirculation closed system was used, composed of twelve tanks with 500L each. 144 juveniles (12/tank) with initial weight of 12.63±2.52g and total length of 12.34±2.06cm were distributed. The experiment lasted for 50 days and the fingerlings were feed four diets containing different protein:carbohydrate ratios (1.24; 0.84; 0.56 and 0.33). The protein:carbohydrate ratio influenced performance. The 0.84 ratio promoted better weight gain, smaller apparent feed conversion, great feed intake and largest daily specific growth rate. In short, the 0.84 protein:carbohydrate ratio is most indicated for this hybrid. The results demonstrated metabolic mobilization of nutrients for maintenance of glucose and growth. The 0.84 protein: carbohydrate ratio was recommended for the hybrid...

Frequência de alimentação para juvenis de tambaqui / Feeding frequency for tambaqui juveniles

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa avaliar qual frequência alimentar promove o melhor desempenho em juvenis de tambaqui. Foram testadas quatro frequências alimentares (duas, quatro, seis e oito vezes ao dia) em intervalos regulares. Foram estocados alevinos de tambaqui com peso médio inicial de 15,74±0,28g em 16 aquários de vidro transparentes com capacidade de 70L de volume útil, em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e quatro repetições. O período de alimentação foi de 30 dias, e utilizou-se uma ração comercial contendo 45 por cento de proteína bruta para peixes onívoros, com taxa de arraçoamento de 6 por cento da biomassa total dos peixes de cada aquário. Os resultados médios de pH, temperatura (°C) e condutividade elétrica (mS/cm) para manhã e tarde foram, respectivamente: 6,91; 6,96; 25,85; 27,69; 0,65; e 0,65. Foram avaliados os índices de desempenho: ganho de peso, conversão alimentar aparente, taxa de crescimento específico, sobrevivência, e também foi analisada a glicose sanguínea. Não foram detectadas diferenças significativas para as variáveis estudadas. Recomenda-se a frequência de alimentação de duas vezes ao dia para juvenis de tambaqui, principalmente visando minimizar mão de obra...

The aim of this research was to assess how often food promotes better performance in tambaqui. We tested four food frequencies (two, four, six and eight times a day) at regular intervals. Tambaqui fingerlings with initial weight of 15.74±0.28g were stocked in 16 transparent glass tanks with a capacity of 70L of usable volume in a completely randomized design with four treatments and four replications. The feeding period was thirty days and a commercial diet containing 45 percent crude protein for omnivorous fish and a feeding rate of 6 percent of the total biomass of fish for each experimental unit was used. The average results of pH, temperature °C and electrical conductivity mS/cm for morning and afternoon were respectively 6.91 and 6.96; 25.85 and 27.69; 0.65 and 0.65. We evaluated the performance indices: weight gain, feed conversion, specific growth rate, survival, and also blood glucose. No significant differences were detected for the variables studied. It is recommended that the frequency of feeding be 2 times a day for tambaqui, mainly to minimize labor...

Potencial antioxidante in vitro das folhas da Bauhinia ungulata L / Antioxidant Potential in vitro of leaves of Bauhinia ungulata L

Bauhinia ungulata L. (Pata de Vaca) is native to Brazil, mainly found in the Amazon, Cerrado and Atlantic Forest, and popularly used in the treatment of diabetes. This paper describes an analysis of the in vitro antioxidant potential of crude ethanol extract and fractions (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and hydroalcoholic residue) obtained from leaves of this species, using three different methods: 1) scavenging of organic radical 2,2 - diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH•), 2) reducing phosphomolybdenum complex and 3) assaying the products formed during lipid peroxidation (TBARS). The antioxidant potential of the extract and fractions varied with the methodology, but the ethyl acetate fraction showed activity similar to the standards used in the three methods. The results provide evidence that the leaves of B. ungulata L. area potential source of natural antioxidants, stimulating new studies aimed at the production of potential drugs for the treatment of diseases related to free radicals...

A Bauhinia ungulata L. (Pata de Vaca) é uma planta nativa do Brasil, encontrada principalmente na região Amazônica, Cerrado e Mata Atlântica, utilizada popularmente no tratamento do diabetes. Este trabalho descreve uma análise in vitro do potencial antioxidante do extrato bruto etanólico e frações (hexano, clorofórmio, acetato de etila e hidroalcoólica residual) obtidos de folhas desta espécie, através de três metodologias distintas: 1) captura de radical orgânico 2,2-difenil-1-picril-hidrazila-DPPH•, 2) redução do complexo fosfomolibdênio e 3) quantificação de produtos formados durante a peroxidação de lipídios (TBARS). O potencial antioxidante do extrato e frações foi variável de acordo com a metodologia utilizada com destaque para a fração acetato de etila que apresentou atividade similar aos padrões utilizados nos três métodos. Os resultados obtidos fornecem evidências de que as folhas de B. ungulata L. são uma potencial fonte de antioxidantes naturais, estimulando novos estudos que objetivem a produção de possíveis medicamentos destinados ao tratamento de patologias associadas aos radicais livres...

Atividade alelopática do extrato e frações das folhas de Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng. ) Cabrera / Allelopathic activity of extract and fractions from leaves of Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng. ) Cabrera

Alelopatia se refere à capacidade que determinada planta tem de interferir no metabolismo de outra, por meio de substâncias liberadas no ambiente. O presente trabalho avaliou o efeito do extrato e frações das folhas de Dasyphyllum tomentosum sobre a germinação, crescimento, respiração e conteúdo de clorofila em Lactuca sativa (alface). Três concentrações em quadruplicata de solução do extrato, frações e 50 sementes de alface, por placa de petri, foram mantidas em câmara de germinação por sete dias. Contagens diárias avaliaram a germinação e medidas da radícula e do hipocótilo, o crescimento. Para o teste de respiração e clorofila total foi realizada leitura em espectrofotômetro após tratamento específico. Com relação à porcentagem, velocidade de germinação e respiração, não foram observadas diferenças quando comparadas ao controle. Observou-se atividade alelopática do extrato e frações sobre o crescimento radicular e o conteúdo de clorofila total. Conclui-se que extrato e frações testados apresentam compostos químicos com atividade alelopática...

Allelopathy refers to the ability of certain plants to interfere with the metabolism of others by releasing substances into the environment. In this study, the effects of the ethanol extract and fractions from leaves of Dasyphyllum tomentosum on the germination, growth, respiration and chlorophyll content of Lactuca sativa (lettuce) were investigated. Solutions of extract and fractions, at three concentrations, were incubated in a germination chamber for 7 days in quadruplicate petri dishes, each with 50 lettuce seeds. Germination counts and measurements of radicle and hypocotyl growth were carried out daily. For the respiration and total chlorophyll tests, a spectrophotometer was used to measure absorbance after specific assay treatments of the roots and leaves, respectively. Concerning the percentage and speed of germination, no difference was observed relative to control. However, both extract and fractions had allelopathic effects on root growth and total chlorophyll content. It is concluded that the extract and fractions contain compounds with allelopathicactivity...

Atividade antioxidante e toxicidade preliminar do extrato e frações obtidas das folhas e cascas do caule de Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng. ) Cabrera / Antioxidant activity and preliminary toxicity of the extracts and fractions obtained from the leaves and stem bark of Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng. ) Cabrera

Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng.) Cabrera, açucará ou espinho-de-agulha, pertence à família Asteraceae, a qual compreende muitas espécies com propriedades terapêuticas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar extratos e frações de folhas e de cascas do caule de D. tomentosum, com relação as atividade antioxidante, citotóxica e hemolítica em testes in vitro. Todas as amostras apresentaram atividade antioxidante pelo método de inibição de DPPH, com destaque para a fração acetato de etila obtida das folhas cuja atividade foi comparável à dos padrões ácido ascórbico e rutina. Com relação à redução do complexo fosfomolibdênio, observou-se que esta mesma fração foi semelhante somente a rutina enquanto a fração obtida das cascas do caule apresentou resultado superior. Não foi observada atividade citotóxica e hemolítica frente aos modelos utilizados com os extratos e frações. Os resultados obtidos demonstram o potencial antioxidante da espécie sem apresentar toxicidade.

Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng.) Cabrera, which belongs to the Asteraceae family, is well known for having many species with therapeutic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extracts and fractions from the leaves and stem bark of D. tomentosum with respect to the antioxidant, cytotoxic and hemolytic activity in in vitro tests. All samples showed antioxidant activity by the DPPH inhibition method, especially the ethyl acetate fraction obtained from the leaves, whose activity was comparable to that of standard ascorbic acid and rutin. Regarding the reduction of the phosphomolybdenum complex, we noted that this same fraction was only similar to rutin and the fraction obtained from the stem bark showed superior results. There was no cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity compared to the models used in the extracts and fractions. The results demonstrate the antioxidant potential of the species without showing toxicity.

Óleos essenciais de plantas medicinais e aromáticas no controle do carrapato rhipicephalus microplus / Essential oils of medicine and aromatic plants not controlled by carrapato rhipicephalus microplus

O carrapato bovino Riphicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) constitui um dos grandes problemas enfrentado pelos pecuaristas de várias partes do mundo. No Brasil este ectoparasita causa grandes prejuízos à bovinocultura devido ao processo de hematofagia e pela transmissão de agentes patogênicos nos animais hospedeiros. Diante dessa situação os produtores normalmente aplicam carrapaticidas organossintéticos de forma indiscriminada. Este método normalmente resulta em: intoxicação dos animais e dos aplicadores, resíduos de carrapaticidas nos produtos de origem animal, resistência dos carrapatos aos carrapaticidas químicos e poluição ambiental. Uma alternativa para diminuir esses problemas é uso de biocarrapaticidas de origem botânica. Os pesticidas botânicos são produtos naturais derivados do metabolismo secundário das plantas. Esse metabolismo produz uma grande diversidade de compostos com ação carrapaticida que podem ser explorados através do uso de óleos essenciais ou como modelo para síntese de pesticidas sintéticos. A necessidade de métodos mais seguros, menos agressivos ao homem e ao meio ambiente, tem estimulado a busca de novos carrapaticidas a partir de produtos vegetais. Assim, acredita-se que o uso de óleos essenciais de plantas medicinais e aromáticas de uma forma isolada ou associada pode reduzir: a velocidade do desenvolvimento da resistência dos carrapatos aos carrapaticidas, os resíduos nos produtos de origem animal e a toxicidade para os animais, aplicadores e meio ambiente.

Systematization of the brain base arteries in ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Thirty ostrich (Struthio camelus) brains were used, injected with latex, to describe the arteries of the brain base.The largest occurrences of the arteries were: The cerebral carotid artery (100%), the intercarotid anastomosis(100%). The caudal branch of the cerebral carotid artery was, on the right (R), developed (53.3%) and vestigial(46.7%); on the left (L), developed (66.7%) and vestigial (33.3%). The ventral tectal mesencephalic artery onthe R (53.3%), on the L (66.7%), direct branch of the cerebral carotid artery on the R (43.3%), on the L (30%)and, direct branch of the basilar artery (3.3%) in both antimeres. The basilar artery was a single vessel (80%),double in (13.3%) and “in island” formation (6.7%). The caudal ventral cerebellar artery was single (96.7%),double (3.3%) on the R and, single (93.3%), double (6.7%) on the L. The dorsal spinal artery was a collateralbranch of the caudal ventral cerebellar artery on the R (96.7%), on the L (93.3%). The ventral spinal artery wasdouble (90%) and single (10%). The rostral branch of the cerebral carotid artery (100%). The caudal cerebralartery, on the R, was double (90%) and single (10%); on the L, was double (53.3%) and single (46.7%). Themiddle cerebral artery was a single vessel (100%). The cerebroethmoidal artery was single (100%). The rostralcerebral artery was single (90%), double (10%) on the R and single (96.7%), double (3.3%) on the L. Thecerebral arterial circle was rostrally open (100%) and, caudally, open (80%) and closed (20%).

Systematization, distribuiton and Territory of the rostral cerebral artery on the brain surface in chinchilla

The present study has analyzed thirty chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) brains, injected with latex, aiming tosystematize and describe the distribution and the vascularization territories of the rostral cerebral artery. Therostral cerebral artery was the terminal branch of the terminal branch, right and left, of the basilar artery,projected from the emittion of the middle cerebral artery, rostromedially, crossing dorsally the optic nerve untilit reaches the cerebral longitudinal fissure, ventrally. Its branches were distributed mostly on the paleopallium,supplying the olfactory trigone, the medial olfactory tract, the olfactory peduncle and the olfactory bulb.The branches to the neopallium vascularized the entire medial surface, except for the tenctorial part of it, thefrontal pole and a zone that was extended from the frontal to the occipital poles, medially to the vallecula,on the convex surface of the cerebral hemisphere. The first collateral branch of the rostral cerebral artery wasthe medial branch, which entered into the longitudinal fissure of the brain and continued as rostral interhemisphericartery. The rostral cerebral artery continued rostrally emitting central branches and the medialand lateral arteries of the olfactory bulb, to the paleopallial region of the chinchilla brain. After the emittion ofthe medial artery of the olfactory bulb, the rostral cerebral artery continued to follow the cerebral longitudinalfissure, as internal ethmoidal artery, its terminal branch.

A systematic study of the brain base arteries inbroad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris)

The objective of this study was to describe and systematize the encephalic arterial vascularization of this reptile,by providing a standard irrigation model with its major variations. Thirty broad-snouted caiman heads andtwo whole specimens were used. The arterial system was filled with red-colored latex. Only a single source ofblood supply was observed in caimans and it originated from the left aortic arch. This vessel is called the azygoscarotid artery. At the caudal base of the skull, ventral to the first cervical vertebrae, it divided into two internalcarotid arteries. The internal carotid arteries divided into a rostral branch and a short caudal branch at thehypophysis level, which continued naturally as the caudal cerebral artery. The short caudal branch gave off itsmedium-caliber portion which, gave off the mesencephalic and the ventral rostral cerebellar arteries. Then thiscaudal branch anastomosed with its contralateral counterpart, forming the basilar artery. This artery followedthe ventral median fissure of the medulla oblongata, giving off the ventral caudal cerebellar and dorsal spinalarteries, and abandoning the cranial cavity through the foramen magnum as the ventral spinal artery. Therostral branch gave off the middle cerebral, rostral cerebral and rostral communicating arteries. The middlecerebral artery arose from a network originated from one to five collateral branches of the rostral branch of theinternal carotid artery. It was observed that the cerebral arterial circle was rostrally and caudally closed and,therefore, the cerebral blood supply was exclusively made by the carotid system.

Induction of cell migration and activation in mice by the freshwater sponge Drulia uruguayensis Bonetto & Ezcurra de Drago, 1968 (Porifera: Metaniidae)

Freshwater sponges are abundant in the Amazon region and they have been known to cause dermatitis (acute inflammation) since the beginning of the 20th century. To determine whether additional constituents, besides their body spicules, cause dermatological reactions in humans, an experimental study was developed and carried out using mice and Drulia uruguayensis prepared in three different forms: intact sponges (IS), macerated sponges (MS) or isolated spicules - megascleres (ISM). The cells most commonly involved in inflammatory reactions (mast cells, eosinophils and neutrophils), as well as intraepithelial lymphocytes and degranulated mast cells, were counted so that they could be used as parameters to determine which of the sponge preparations induced the greatest reaction. The effects of the sponge on the skin were then determined by histological analysis. The results obtained showed that IS caused the greatest inflammatory reaction (p = 0.000005), activating mainly mast cells (p = 0.0018). The histopathological analysis revealed a slight loss of continuity of the epidermis when ISM or IS were applied. These findings allow us to conclude that a structurally intact sponge can cause a greater inflammatory reaction in the first contact because of its ability to perforate the skin and allow inflammatory agents to enter. Other proteins present in dried sponge bodies could induce allergic but not toxic responses (in contact with the entire sponge, a large number of pharmacologically inert proteins may be introduced, with a potential allergen).

Cardioprotective effect of ornitho-kinin in an anesthetized, open-chest chicken model of acute coronary occlusion

The generation of bradykinin (BK; Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Ser-Pro-Phe-Arg) in blood and kallidin (Lys-BK) in tissues by the action of the kallikrein-kinin system has received little attention in non-mammalian vertebrates. In mammals, kallidin can be generated by the coronary endothelium and myocytes in response to ischemia, mediating cardioprotective events. The plasma of birds lacks two key components of the kallikrein-kinin system: the low molecular weight kininogen and a prekallikrein activator analogous to mammalian factor XII, but treatment with bovine plasma kallikrein generates ornitho-kinin [Thr6,Leu8]-BK. The possible cardioprotective effect of ornitho-kinin infusion was investigated in an anesthetized, open-chest chicken model of acute coronary occlusion. A branch of the left main coronary artery was reversibly ligated to produce ischemia followed by reperfusion, after which the degree of myocardial necrosis (infarct size as a percent of area at risk) was assessed by tetrazolium staining. The iv injection of a low dose of ornitho-kinin (4 µg/kg) reduced mean arterial pressure from 88 ± 12 to 42 ± 7 mmHg and increased heart rate from 335 ± 38 to 402 ± 45 bpm (N = 5). The size of the infarct was reduced by pretreatment with ornitho-kinin (500 µg/kg infused over a period of 5 min) from 35 ± 3 to 10 ± 2 percent of the area at risk. These results suggest that the physiological role of the kallikrein-kinin system is preserved in this animal model in spite of the absence of two key components, i.e., low molecular weight kininogen and factor XII.