Diet of Moenkhausia bonita (Benine, Castro & Sabino 2004) (Characiformes: Characidae) in streams in the basin of rio Formoso, Brazilian Midwest

To characterize the diet composition of Moenkhausia bonita and its temporal and ontogenetic variations in streams in the Formoso River basin (MS). The collections were carried out in seven sampling points in two periods throughout the year (dry and rainy). The food items were analyzed according to the volumetric and occurrence frequency methods and the diet was characterized through the Food Index (IAi%). To determine ontogeny, the specimens were divided into five size classes in the dry (D1 to D5) and rainy (R1 to R5) periods. To verify the difference between the species' diet between the size classes and the periods of the year, the Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance ­ PERMANOVA analysis was performed. Moenkhausia bonita was classified as an invertivore when it consumed basically both aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates (99.5% of the diet), with higher consumption of aquatic invertebrates. There was a significant difference in the diet of between the dry and rainy periods, and although the species basically consumed the same items in the two studied periods, the proportions were different and there was no difference in the diet between size classes. M. bonita diet is based on autochthonous resources regardless of the size class, but that there were different consumption patterns when comparing the different periods of the year. The present study provided the first information on the feeding of M. bonita in a lotic environment and diet spectrum in the developmental phases, (ontogeny) and periods of the year, enabling a better understanding of the species, the importance of invertebrates in its diet, and the need for future studies on the biology, autoecology, and behavior of this species.

Minimalist revision of Mesochorus Gravenhorst, 1829 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Mesochorinae) from Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica, with 158 new species and host records for 129 species / Revisión minimalista de Mesochorus Gravenhorst, 1829 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Mesochorinae) del Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica, con 158 especies nuevas y registros de hospedantes para 129 especies

Introduction: Species of Mesochorus are found worldwide and members of this genus are primarily hyperparasitoids of Ichneumonoidea and Tachinidae. Objectives: To describe species of Costa Rican Mesochorus reared from caterpillars and to a lesser extent Malaise-trapped. Methods: The species are diagnosed by COI mtDNA barcodes, morphological inspection, and host data. A suite of images and host data (plant, caterpillar, and primary parasitoid) are provided for each species. Results: A total of 158 new species of Mesochorus. Sharkey is the taxonomic authority for all. Conclusions: This demonstrates a practical application of DNA barcoding that can be applied to the masses of undescribed neotropical insect species in hyperdiverse groups.

Introducción: Las especies de Mesochorus se encuentran en todo el mundo y los miembros de este género son principalmente hiperparasitoides de las familias Ichneumonoidea y Tachinidae. Objetivos: Describir las especies de Mesochorus costarricenses obtenidas de orugas y en menor medida por trampas Malaise. Métodos: Las especies se diagnosticaron mediante el uso de código de barra molecular por COI del ADNmt, inspección morfológica y datos del huésped. Se proporciona un conjunto de imágenes y datos de los huéspedes (planta, oruga y parasitoide primario) para cada especie. Resultados: Se encontró un total de 158 nuevas especies de Mesochorus. Sharkey es la autoridad taxonómica para todas las especies. Conclusiones: Se demuestra una aplicación práctica del código de barras de ADN que se puede aplicar a grandes cantidades de especies de insectos neotropicales no descritas para grupos hiperdiversos.

Diet of Moenkhausia bonita (Benine, Castro & Sabino 2004) (Characiformes: Characidae) in streams in the basin of rio Formoso, Brazilian Midwest

To characterize the diet composition of Moenkhausia bonita and its temporal and ontogenetic variations in streams in the Formoso River basin (MS). The collections were carried out in seven sampling points in two periods throughout the year (dry and rainy). The food items were analyzed according to the volumetric and occurrence frequency methods and the diet was characterized through the Food Index (IAi%). To determine ontogeny, the specimens were divided into five size classes in the dry (D1 to D5) and rainy (R1 to R5) periods. To verify the difference between the species' diet between the size classes and the periods of the year, the Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance ­ PERMANOVA analysis was performed. Moenkhausia bonita was classified as an invertivore when it consumed basically both aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates (99.5% of the diet), with higher consumption of aquatic invertebrates. There was a significant difference in the diet of between the dry and rainy periods, and although the species basically consumed the same items in the two studied periods, the proportions were different and there was no difference in the diet between size classes. M. bonita diet is based on autochthonous resources regardless of the size class, but that there were different consumption patterns when comparing the different periods of the year. The present study provided the first information on the feeding of M. bonita in a lotic environment and diet spectrum in the developmental phases, (ontogeny) and periods of the year, enabling a better understanding of the species, the importance of invertebrates in its diet, and the need for future studies on the biology, autoecology, and behavior of this species.

: Caracterizar a composição alimentar de Moenkhausia bonita e as variações temporais e ontogenéticas na dieta desta espécie em riachos da bacia do rio Formoso (MS). As coletas foram realizadas em sete pontos amostrais em dois períodos do ano (seco e chuvoso). Os itens alimentares foram analisados de acordo com os métodos volumétrico e de frequência de ocorrência e a dieta foi caracterizada através do Índice Alimentar (IAi%). Para determinar a ontogenia, os espécimes foram divididos em cinco classes de tamanho nos períodos seco (D1 a D5) e chuvoso (R1 a R5). Para verificar a diferença entre a dieta da espécie entre as classes de tamanho e os períodos do ano foi realizado a Análise de Variância Multivariada Permutacional ­ PERMANOVA. M. bonita foi classificada como invertívora ao consumir basicamente invertebrados tanto aquáticos quanto terrestres (99,5% da dieta), com consumo maior de invertebrados aquáticos. Houve diferença significativa na dieta entre os períodos seco e chuvoso, apesar da espécie consumir basicamente os mesmos itens nos dois períodos estudados, as proporções foram distintas e não houve diferença na dieta entre as classes de tamanho. A dieta de M. bonita é baseada em recursos autóctones independente da classe de tamanho, mas que houve consumo diferente entre os períodos do ano. O presente estudo forneceu as primeiras informações sobre a alimentação de M. bonita em ambiente lótico e seu espectro alimentar nas fases de desenvolvimento(ontogenia)e períodos do ano, possibilitando melhor conhecimento da espécie, a importância dos invertebrados em sua dieta e a necessidade de estudos futuros sobre a biologia, autoecologia e comportamento desta espécie.

Síndrome de tetraamelia: informe de un caso / Tetra-amelia syndrome: a case report

A still born male baby with tetra-amelia syndrome is reported, with craniofacial abnormalities and pulmonary agenesis. It presented complete absence of all four limbs in association with cleft lip and palate on the right side. The mother medical history revealed no remarkable details. The fetus died shortly after its birth. The embryonic correlation of the case is discussed. Proper health education, antenatal screening and genetic counseling can reduce the risk of such congenital anomalies.

Se informa el caso clínico de un mortinato del sexo masculine con el síndrome de tetraamelia, que mostró ausencia de las cuatro extremidades, unido a anomalías craneofaciales y agenesis pulmonar. Presentó ausencia total de las 4 extremidades unido a labio leporino, paladar hendido del lado derecho. Los antecedentes maternos no revelaron detalles considerable. El feto falleció poco después de su nacimiento. Se discute la correlación embriónica del caso. La educación para la salud adecuada, la pesquisa prenatal y el consejo genético pueden reducir el riesgo de estas anomalías congénitas.

An interesting case of Phocomelia

Authors present a very rare case of tetra-phocomelia evaluated by antenatal ultrasonography. It is a condition seen in 0.62 per 100,000 live births. This is a congenital chromosomal abnormality involving the musculoskeletal system. Primi gravida with spontaneous conception after a long period of infertility underwent early anomaly scan. Patient was not aware of the last menstrual period hence; NT scan was missed. Routine early anomaly scan done between 16-18 weeks of pregnancy diagnosed a fetus with Tetra-Phocomelia. Due to the lack of associated symptoms or significant history, our case did not fit into any specific syndrome and appears to be the result of a sporadic, non-hereditary limb deficiency involving all four limb buds.  Second opinion obtained from a fetal medicine consultant who confirmed the diagnosis. Hence, decided for mid trimester termination and fetus was expelled after 8 hours. Fetus was not sent for pathological analysis. Tetra-phocomelia is a rare congenital anomaly and it may be associated with other deformity also. 1st case of phocomelia was described after the intake of thalidomide. In this condition hands and feet are seen as small flippers of a seal. The differential diagnosis includes sporadic phocomelia, Holt-Oram syndrome, thrombocytopenia-absent radius syndrome (TAR syndrome), Robert’s syndrome, and thalidomide-induced phocomelia. Here authors are presenting a rare case of Phocomelia where there is no history of drug intake or family history. This has to differentiate from thrombocytopenia-absent radius syndrome (TAR syndrome), sporadic phocomelia, Holt-Oram syndrome, Robert’s syndrome, and thalidomide-induced phocomelia.

Volumetric behaviour of tetra-n-butyl ammonium bromidein various solvents at different temperatures / Comportamiento volumétrico del bromuro de tetra-n-butilamonio en varios solventes a diferentes temperaturas

ABSTRACT Measurement of ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity of solutions of Tetra Butyl Ammonium Bromide have been carried outin different solvents (water, methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol and 1-butanol) as functions of concentration (1 to 0.1 M) at different temperatures (298.15 K to 318.15K). Using these experimental data, various acoustical and apparent parameters such as acoustical impedance, intermolecular free length, adiabatic compressibility, molar compressibility, Van der Waals constant, relaxation strength, apparent molar isentropic compressibility, apparent molar volume have been evaluated. Further, some thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy of activation, enthalpy and entropy of activation have been evaluated. All these parameters have been evaluated to understand type of interactions present in studied solutions.

RESUMEN La medición de la velocidad ultrasónica, la densidad y la viscosidad de algunas soluciones de bromuro de tetra-n-butilamonio se llevó a cabo en diferentes solventes (agua, metanol, etanol, 1-propanol y 1-butanol) en función de la concentración (1 a 0,1 M) y a diferentes temperaturas (298,15 K a 318.15 K). Utilizando estos datos experimentales, se evaluaron varios parámetros acústicos y aparentes, como la impedancia acústica, la longitud libre intermolecular, la compresibilidad adiabática, la compresibilidad molar, la constante de Van der Waals, la fuerza de relajación, la compresibilidad isentrópica molar aparente, el volumen molar aparente, etc. Además, se evaluaron algunos parámetros termodinâmicos, como la energía de activación libre de Gibbs, la entalpia y la entropía de activación. Todos estos parámetros han sido evaluados para comprender el tipo de interacciones presentes en las soluciones estudiadas.

Synthesis of Some Novel Tetra Aryl Imidazoles Compounds: Evaluation of In-Vitro Cytotoxicity and Anthelmintic Activity

The imidazole derivatives have potent therapeutic activity against cytotoxicity and parasites. The present study was planned to synthesize novel tetra aryl imidazoles compounds and evaluated for in vitro cytotoxicity and anthelmintic activity. Firstly, 2-amine-4-chloro pyridine was condensed with substituted benzaldehyde to give corresponding Schiff’s base. These Schiff’s bases further on treatment with ammonium acetic acid derivation and isatin yielded comparing novel tetra aryl imidazoles. The synthesized compounds were examined for in-vitro cytotoxicity and anthelmintic activity. The discoveries showed that all the synthesized novel substituted imidazoles have moderate to great anthelmintic action. They additionally had critical in-vitro cytotoxicity against HEp2 cell lines (Human larynx malignancy cell line) against standard utilizing 5-fluorouracil. The compounds 1b, 2b, 4b, 6b, and 8b had higher anthelmintic action contrasted with standard mebendazole. The synthesized compounds 1b, 2b and 8b had noteworthy in-vitro cytotoxicity against HEp2 cell lines.

Enhancing Antitumor Efficacy of Cisplatin Low Dose by EDTA in Ehrlich Ascetic Carcinoma Bearing Mice

Abstract In a recent study, the treatment of different human cancer cell lines in vitro with ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) showed a promising anticancer activity which could be a novel promising approach for cancer treatment. The aim of this study is to address the ability of EDTA to enhance the antitumor efficacy of the low dose of cisplatin (Cis) treatment in Ehrlich ascetic carcinoma (EAC) bearing mice. Sixty female albino mice were divided into six groups. The 1st group of mice was served as a negative control. 2nd - 6th groups were inoculated intraperitoneal (i.p) with 2×106 EAC cells/mouse. After one day of inoculation, the 2nd, 3rd and 4th groups were injected daily for 6 days (early treatment) with phosphate buffer saline, low dose of Cis and Cis/EDTA, respectively. After six days, the 5th and 6th groups were injected with the low dose of Cis and Cis/EDTA for 6 consecutive days (late treatment), respectively. At day 14, all groups of mice were sacrificed, sera were collected for biochemical assessment, then tumor volumes, counts, live and dead cells were determined from all groups. The results showed that EDTA co-treatment enhanced the efficacy of low dose of Cis at early and late time points. In addition, EDTA co-treatment potentially ameliorated the Cis-induced side effects on liver and kidney functions. In summary, co-therapy with EDTA could enhance the chemotherapeutic efficacy of low dose of Cis.

Simultaneous determination of thirteen components of Mortan Cortex in different regions by HPLC / 中草药

Objective: To establish an HPLC method for the analysis of thirteen main chemical constituents (gallicacid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, methylgallate, oxypaeoniflora, catechins, paeoniflorin, 1,2,3,6-tetra- O-galloyl-D-glucose, 1,2,4,6-tetra-O- galloyl-D-glucose, benzoicacid, 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-D-glucose, mudanpioside C, benzoyloxypaeoniflorin, and paeonal) in Moutan Cortex from different origins. Methods: The methanol (50%) reflux extraction was adopted to Moutan Cortex. Separation was carried out on C18 (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm), the mobile phase was eluted with acetonitrile-0.5% phosphoric acid. The flow rate was 1.0 mL/min, the detection wavelength was 254 nm, and the column temperature was 30 ℃. Results :The linear relation of thirteen main active components measured in the range of mass concentration was good with perfect precision, repeatability, and stability, the value of which was all more than 0.999 5. Conclusion: The HPLC method established for simultaneous determination of thirteen main chemical compositions in Mortan Cortex is effective, accurate, and reproducible, which can be used for the quality control of Mortan Cortex.

Virtual screening of Chinese herbal monomer against EV71 3C protease / 中草药

Objective: To search for Chinese herbal monomer with the antiviral activity of enterovirus 71 (EV71) 3C protease by virtual screening. Methods: A total of 1998 monomers from antiviral Chinese herbs downloaded from TCM Database@Taiwan database were chosen as screening ligands, and EV71 3C protease was selected as a target. The binding mode of Chinese herbal monomer and EV71 3C protease was simulated through the molecular docking tools of AutoDock Vina. The monomers were sorted according to the binding free energy. The binding poses of the monomers with docking scores less than -37.673 kJ/mol were visualized by Discovery Studio 2018 Visualizer program. Results: Two monomers, namely, procyanidin B5 and 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl- β-D-glucose, were obtained with the lowest binding energies. Conclusion: The promising candidate monomers with anti-EV71 3C protease activity were screened out from traditional Chinese medicine, providing an alternative method for further development of therapeutically useful anti-EV71 agents.

Life Without Limbs: Tetra-amelia

Amelia is defined as the complete absence of the skeletal parts of a limb. Tetra- amelia, is the absence of all thefour limbs is a very rare condition with an incidence range of 1.5–4/100,000 births. Many factors causingvarious limb defects are genetic, environmental (teratogens), vascular compromise by amniotic bands andconditions like oligohydraminos and maternal diabetes. Point mutation in the WNT gene plays a major role incausing limb defects.

Synthesis and Anti-HIV-1 Activity of One Schiff Base Derivative with Glucosamine of Gossypol / 中国药师

Objective: To confirm the structure and preferential conformation of the Schiff base of gossypol with 1, 3, 4, 6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine and explore its anti-HIV-1 activity.Methods: The Schiff base of gossypol with 11, 3, 4, 6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine was synthesized and identified by FT-IR, NMR spectroscopy and the PM6 semi-classical calculation.The inhibitory activity of the novel compound against the laboratory-adapted HIV-1IIIB strain was examined using the HIV-1IIIB/TZM-bl indicator cell culture system.Results: The 1H and 13C-NMR signals of the new Schiff base were assigned.The PM6 semi-classical calculation indicated that enamine-enamine tautomeric form of the new Schiff base was more stable,which was stabilized by the intramolecular hydrogen bonds.The anti-HIV-1 test showed that the compound could block the entry of HIV-1IIIB into the target cells.Conclusion: The Schiff base of gossypol with 1, 3, 4, 6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine exhibits enamine-enamine tautomeric form in solution, which shows potential anti-HIV-1 activity.

Effects of Tetra-arsenic Oxide on Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Human Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To observe the effects of tetra-atsenic oxide (As4O6) on the proliferation, migration and invasion of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells; To explore its potential mechanism. Methods The human breast cancer MCF-7 cells were regarded as the research object and cultured in vitro, with different concentrations of As4O6 using to intervene in MCF-7 cells. The cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay; the flow cytometry and wound-healing assay were used to detect the cell apoptosis and migration, respectively. The expressions of Cyclin E1, Cyclin A2, Caspase 3, p21 and MMP-9 mRNA were accessed by semi quantitative RT-PCR. Results As4O6 had a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of MCF-7 cells in a dose dependent manner. Compared with the control group (0 μmol/L), the apoptosis rate increased significantly when the concentration of As4O6 was 9, 12, 15 μmol/L (P<0.01). Either As4O6 at high (3 μmol/L) or low (1 μmol/L) concentration could effectively inhibit the migration of MCF-7 cells (P<0.01). With the increasing concentration of As4O6, the expressions of Cyclin E1, Caspase 3, and p21 mRNA significantly increased, while the expressions of Cyclin A2 and MMP-9 mRNA significantly decreased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Conclusion As4O6 can significantly inhibit the proliferation, cycle, invasion and migration of breast cancer MCF-7 cells, and the mechanism may be related to the increase of expressions of cyclin E1, caspase 3, p21 and inhibition of expressions of cyclin A2 and MMP-9.

Redescription and osteology of Hyphessobrycon compressus (Meek) (Teleostei: Characidae), type species of the genus

The type-species of Hyphessobrycon is redescribed and its osteology provided. Hyphessobrycon compressus is distinguished from its congeners by the 41-48 (mode 45) scales in the longitudinal series; 7-9 (mode 9) scales rows between the dorsal-fin origin and the lateral line, and absence of predorsal scales. Additional useful characters include the lack of spots on the body, a dorsal fin with a black spot, and an anal fin with two large, conspicuous hooks, and several other small hooks. Hyphessobrycon milleri is proposed as a junior synonym of H. compressus. The osteology of H. compressus is discussed in detail together with comments about phylogenetic relationships of Hyphessobrycon sensu stricto.

A espécie-tipo de Hyphessobrycon é redescrita, junto com sua descrição osteológica. Hyphessobrycon compressus é distinguido dos seus congêneres por possuir 41-48 (moda 45) escamas na série longitudinal, 7-9 (moda 9) séries de escamas entre a origem da nadadeira dorsal e a linha lateral, e pela ausência de escamas pré-dorsais. Caracteres adicionais úteis incluem a ausência de máculas no flanco, nadadeira dorsal com mácula preta e nadadeira anal com dois ganchos ósseos grandes e conspícuos e vários outros pequenos. Hyphessobrycon millerié proposto como sinônimo júnior de H. compressus. A osteologia de H. compressusé discutida em detalhe, junto com comentários sobre as relações filogenéticas de Hyphessobrycon sensu stricto.

Redescription of hyphessobrycon flammeus Myers, 1924 (ostariophysi: characidae), a threatened species from Brazil

One of the most gorgeous colored and endangered Hyphessobrycon species, H. flammeus Myers, is redescribed. Diagnostic characters of the species are two vertically elongated humeral spots, no caudal peduncle blotch, 5-8 maxillary teeth, caudal fin hyaline, and longitudinal dark stripe of the body absent. Sexual dimorphism is present, with males being more colored than females and having bony hooks in the anal and pelvic fins, which are dark in their terminal portions. Comments about its occurrence in the upper rio Tietê drainage (upper rio Paraná basin), its conservation status, and the phylogenetic position into Characidae context are also presented.

Uma das mais coloridas e ameaçadas espécies de Hyphessobrycon, H. flammeus, é redescrita. Caracteres diagnósticos para a espécie são duas máculas umerais verticalmente alongadas, mancha no pedúnculo caudal ausente, presença de 5-8 dentes no maxilar, nadadeira caudal hialina e faixa negra longitudinal no flanco ausente. A espécie apresenta dimorfismo sexual, com machos mais coloridos que as fêmeas e com ganchos ósseos nas nadadeiras anal e pélvica; além disso, as extremidades destas nadadeiras são enegrecidas. Comentários sobre a distribuição da espécie na drenagem do alto rio Tietê (bacia do alto rio Paraná), seu status de conservação e posição filogenética no contexto de Characidae são também apresentados.

Moenkhausia rubra, a new species from rio Juruena, upper rio Tapajós basin, Brazil (characiformes: characidae)

Moenkhausia rubra, new species, is described from the upper rio Juruena, rio Tapajós basin, Mato Grosso, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners, except M. hemigrammoides and M. nigromarginata, by the dark pigmentation on the anteriormost rays of both dorsal and anal fins. Moenkhausia rubra is distinguished from the aforementioned species by the number of branched anal-fin rays 17-20 (vs. 20-25), presence of a dark blotch on the caudal peduncle extending to middle caudal-fin rays, absence of longitudinal black zigzag stripes between longitudinal rows of scales on body, and other details of coloration.

Moenkhausia rubra, espécie nova, é descrita do alto rio Juruena, bacia do rio Tapajós, Mato Grosso, Brasil. A espécie nova diferencia-se de todos os congêneres, exceto M. hemigrammoides e M. nigromarginata, pela presença de pigmentação escura nos raios mais anteriores das nadadeiras dorsal e anal. Moenkhausia rubra distingui-se das espécies acima mencionadas pelo número de raios ramificados na nadadeira anal 17-20 (vs. 20-25), presença de uma mancha escura no pedúnculo caudal se estendendo até os raios medianos da nadadeira caudal, ausência de faixas em zigue-zague longitudinais entre as séries longitudinais de escamas no corpo, além de outros detalhes de coloração.

A neurotoxicidade da Cannabis sativa e suas repercussões sobre a morfologia do tecido cerebral / Cannabis sativa neurotoxicity and impacts on the brain tissue morphology

Para a compreensão das repercussões psicológicas e comportamentais verificadas em usuários de Cannabis sativa, experimentos têm sido desenvolvidos analisando a relação entre a intensidade do uso da droga e biomarcadores de lesão e inflamação. Dessa forma, este estudo teve como objetivo realizar pesquisa bibliográfica, relacionando marcadores bioquímicos de neurotoxicidade e suas repercussões sobre a morfologia do tecido cerebral em usuários de Cannabis sativa, durante a exposição ao Δ9-THC por via intravenosa e em pesquisas in vitro. Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa cuja pesquisa bibliográfica foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed, SciELO e Google Acadêmico, utilizando-se como critério de inclusão os seguintes termos: "Cannabis Sativa", "marijuana", "maconha", "Δ9-THC", "neurotrophins", "neurotrofinas", "prostaglandins", "prostaglandinas", "BDNF" e "NGF". Dessa forma, foram selecionados 40 artigos para integrar a presente revisão, datados de 1987 a 2013. O período de realização da pesquisa bibliográfica foi de agosto de 2011 a maio de 2013. Foi possível identificar os tipos e a magnitude das alterações morfológicas e bioquímicas decorrentes do uso de Cannabis sativa ou da exposição ao Δ9-THC. De uma forma geral, foi constatada a diminuição das massas cinzenta e branca do cérebro, da densidade do hipocampo, do volume das células neurais, entre outros. Foram constatadas também alterações nos níveis séricos de neurotrofinas e na biossíntese de prostaglandinas, de acordo com a metodologia utilizada ou região avaliada. Esses achados poderiam estar relacionados às mudanças comportamentais observadas em usuários de Cannabis sativa, esclarecendo, por exemplo, diversos sintomas psíquicos relatados na literatura.

In order to understand psychological and behavioral impact among Cannabis sativa users, experiments have been developed by analyzing the relationship between the intensity of the use with injury and inflammation biomarkers. Therefore, this paper aimed to carry out a literature review, relating biochemical markers of neurotoxicity and their impact on morphology of brain tissue in Cannabis sativa users, during the exposure to Δ9-THC intravenously and in in vitro studies. This is a narrative review whose bibliographic research was managed in PubMed, SciELO and Google Scholar databases, using the following terms as inclusion criterion: "Cannabis sativa", "marijuana", "maconha", "Δ9-THC", "neurotrophins", "neurotrofinas", "prostaglandins", "prostaglandinas", "BDNF" and "NGF". Thereby, 40 articles were selected to integrate the present review, dated from 1987 to 2013. The period of this literature review was from August 2011 to May 2013. It was possible to identify the types and the magnitude of morphological and biochemical changes resulting from the Cannabis sativa use or exposure to Δ9-THC. In general, a reduction was found in gray and white brain mass, in density of hippocampus, in the volume of nerve cells, among others. We also observed changes in serum levels of neurotrophins and in prostaglandin biosynthesis, in accordance with methodology used or the evaluated area. These findings could be related to behavioral changes observed in Cannabis sativa users, clarifying, for instance, many psychological symptoms reported in literature.

Análise histomorfométrica do músculo sóleo de ratos submetidos ao modelo animal de parkinsonismo induzido pelo MPTP / Histomorphometrical analysis of rats' soleus muscle submitted to animal model of MPTP-induced parkinsonism

INTRODUÇÃO: Modelos experimentais da Doença de Parkinson (DP) que reproduzem a desnervação dopaminérgica têm sido desenvolvidos para estudar a patofisiologia desta doença e analisar a eficácia de novas terapêuticas. Dentre os sinais cardinais da DP temos a rigidez muscular, estudos sugerem que mudanças intrínsecas nas propriedades mecânicas do músculo podem ser responsáveis pelo aumento dessa alteração tônica. OBJETIVO: Analisar a morfologia geral e a histomorfometria do músculo sóleo de ratos Wistar induzidos ao Parkinsonismo por 1-metil-4-fenil-1,2,3,6-tetrahidropiridina (MPTP). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Utilizaram-se 24 ratos Wistar machos, com idade de 13 semanas e peso de 279 ± 13 g, divididos em quatro grupos: 1- controle-controle (n = 6): sham tratados com benserazida + salina; 2 - controle-L-DOPA (n = 6): sham tratados com benserazida + L-DOPA; 3 - MPTP- controle (n = 6): lesão na substância negra (SNc) por MPTP tratados com benserazida + salina; 4 - MPTP-L-DOPA (n = 6): lesão na SNc por MPTP tratados com benserazida + L-DOPA. Esses animais foram submetidos a eutanásia 35 dias após os procedimentos experimentais. Foram analisados: peso corporal, peso muscular, morfologia geral do músculo com microscopia de luz e mensuração da área de secção transversa das fibras musculares. Realizaram-se comparações com o teste t pareado entre o peso corporal inicial e final. A ANOVA post-hoc Tukey foi usada para comparações entre os grupos, sendo considerado significativo p ≤ 0,05. RESULTADOS: Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas variáveis analisadas. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados analisados não excluem a possibilidade de alterações ocorrerem no interior dessas células, nos tipos de fibras musculares ou em longo prazo.

INTRODUCTION: Animal models for Parkinson's disease (PD) which mimetize dopaminergic degeneration of nervous cells have been developed to study the pathology of this disease and to analyze the efficiency of new therapies. One of the cardinal signs of PD have muscle stiffness, studies suggest that intrinsic changes in mechanical properties of muscle may be responsible for the increase of this amendment tonic. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the morphology and histomorphometry of soleus muscle of rats PD-induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropiridine (MPTP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used 24 male Wistar rats, with the age of 13 weeks and 279 ± 13 g weight, divided into four groups: 1- control-control (n = 6): sham treated with benserazidasalina; 2 - control-L-DOPA (n = 6): sham treated with benserazida + L-DOPA; 3 - MPTP-control (n = 6): injury in substantia nigra (SNc) by MPTP treated with benserazidasalina; 4 - MPTP-L-DOPA (n = 6): CNS injury by MPTP treated with benserazida + L-DOPA. These animals were euthanized 35 days after the experimental procedures. It was analyzed: body weight, muscle weight, General muscle morphology with light microscopy and measurement of the cross-sectional area of muscle fibers. Comparisons between initial and final body weight were developed with the paired T-test. The Tukey post-hoc ANOVA was used for comparisons between groups, being considered significant p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found in the analyzed variables. CONCLUSION: The data analyzed do not exclude the possibility of occurrence of changes in the interior of these cells, in the types of muscle fibers or long term.

A comparative study of various decalcification techniques.

Background : Study of fibrilar, cellular and sub cellular structures of mineralized tissues is only possible after the removal of the calcium apatite of these tissues by the process of demineralization. Aims: The present study aims to evaluate six commonly used demineralizing agents to identify the best decalcifying agent. Materials and Methods: The present study included six different decalcifying solutions: 10% formal nitric acid, 8% formal nitric acid, 10% formic acid, 8% formic acid, Perenyi's fluid and Ethylene Di-Amine Tetra Acetic Acid. eight samples of posterior mandible of rat were decalcified in each of the decalcifying solutions and subjected to chemical end-point test. Ehrlich's Hematoxylin stain was used. Statistical Analysis Used: One way ANOVA was used for multiple group comparisons and Chi-square test was used for analyzing categorical data. P value of 0.05/less was set for statistical significance. Results: Samples treated with EDTA showed the best overall histological impression and the tissue integrity were well preserved. Formal nitric of both the percentages 10 and 8% gave fairly good cellular detail and were rapid in their action. Conclusion: The final impression led to the proposition that EDTA was indeed the best decalcifying agent available. However, with time constraint, the use of formal nitric acid is advocated.

Una nueva especie de Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes: Characidae) de la cuenca del río Telembí, vertiente sur del Pacífico, Colombia / A new species of Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes: Characidae) from the Telembí River drain- age, Southern Pacific slope of Colombia

The genus Hyphessobrycon is included within the subfamily Tetragonopterinae. The species are generally small, do not exceed 70mm of standard length, are economically important as ornamental fish, with 128 valid species distributed from Southern Mexico to Rio La Plata in Argentina. The collections of fish were made with seines, in a single biotope, along shore in backwaters and working downstream. Measurements of the specimens were taken point to point with digital calipers. Observations of bone and cartilage structures were made on cleared and stained (C&S) specimens. The morphometric relationships between species were explored using a principal component analysis (PCA)using 21 variables. We described a new species, Hyphessobrycon chocoensis, from the Telembí River drainage of the Pacific versant of Colombia. The new species, Hyphessobrycon chocoensis, is distinguished from congeners not of the flammeus species group by: having a diffuse humeral spot, in lacking a dark spot on the dorsal fin and caudal peduncle. It is distinguished from members its species group by the number of rays in the dorsal fin (ii, 8, i), by the number of branched anal-fin rays (25-26) and by having a diffuse humeral spot. It differs from H. tortuguerae in the number of teeth on the maxilla (1-2), by the number of predorsal scales and the high number of scales between the lateral line and the anal fin (6-7). Hyphessobrycon chocoensis can be distinguished from the other known species of Hyphessobrycon from the Pacific Coast of Colombia in having: a high number of pored lateral-line scales, by the snout to dorsal-fin length, by caudal-peduncle depth and by eye diameter. In addition, it differs from H. columbianus by the distance from the dorsal fin to the anal fin, by the length of the upper jaw, and by snout length. It differs from H. condotensis in having a high number of scales between the lateral line and the dorsal fin, and by the number of simple rays in the anal fin. H. chocoensis is distinguished from H. sebastiani by the number of transverse scales and the number of scales between the lateral line and the dorsal fin. A taxonomic key is provided to aid with the identification of the species of Hyphessobrycon from the Pacific Coast of Colombia.

El género Hyphessobrycon, se incluye dentro de la subfamilia Tetragonopterinae. Las especies generalmente son pequeñas, no sobrepasan los 70mm de longitud estándar, son importantes económicamente como peces ornamentales, con 128 especies validas que se distribuyen desde el sur de México hasta Río de La Plata en Argentina. Se describe una nueva especie de Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes: Characidae) de la cuenca del río Barbacoas, vertiente sur del Pacífico, Colombia, Hyphessobrycon chocoensis de la cuenca del río Telembí, vertiente del Pacífico Colombiano. Las recolectas de los peces fueron realizadas con redes de arrastres y se hicieron en un solo biotopo, zona litoral de remanso y a favor de la corriente. Las medidas de los ejemplares se tomaron punto a punto con un calibrador digital Las observaciones de estructuras óseas y cartílagos se hicieron sobre ejemplares clareados y teñidos (C&T). Las relaciones morfométricas entre especies fueron exploradas empleando 21 variables mediante un análisis de componentes principales (ACP). La nueva especie de Hyphessobrycon, H. chocoensis se distingue de sus congéneres no miembros del grupo flammeus por tener una mancha humeral difusa, no tener una mancha oscura en la aleta dorsal o en el pedúnculo caudal. Se distingue de las demás especies del grupo por el número de radios de la aleta dorsal (ii, 8, i), por el número de radios ramificados en la aleta anal (25-26) y por presentar la mancha humeral difusa, se diferencia de H. tortuguerae por el número de dientes en el maxilar (1-2), por el número de escamas pre- dorsales (10-12) y un alto número de escamas entre la línea lateral y la aleta anal (6-7). Hyphessobrycon chocoensis se puede separar de todos los otros Hyphessobrycon conocidos de las cuencas del Pacifico Colombiano por presentar: un alto número de escamas con poros en la línea lateral, por la longitud hocico-aleta dorsal, por la profundidad del pedúnculo caudal y por el diámetro del ojo. Además, se distingue de H. columbianus por la longitud aleta dorsal- aleta anal, por la longitud de la mandíbula superior, por la longitud del hocico. Del mismo modo se diferencia de H. condotensis por tener un alto número de escamas entre la línea lateral y la aleta dorsal, por una mayor cantidad de radios simples en la aleta anal. H. chocoensis se aparta de H. sebastiani por el número de escamas en la parte: lateral del cuerpo y entre la línea lateral y la aleta dorsal. Se incluye una clave taxonómica práctica de las especies presentes en la vertiente del Pacifico de Colombia.