Improvement effects and mechanism of total flavonoids of Bidens pilosa on lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroin-flammation in mice / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect and mechanism of total flavonoids of Bidens pilosa L. （TFB） on lipopolysaccharide （LPS）-induced neuroinflammation in mice. METHODS Fifty C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into normal control group， LPS group and TFB low-dose， medium-dose and high-dose groups， with 10 mice in each group. TFB low-dose， medium-dose and high-dose groups were given TFB solution intragastrically at 60， 120 and 240 mg/kg， and the normal control group and LPS group were given corresponding volume of normal saline， once a day， for consecutive 21 d. From the 15th day of administration， except for the normal control group， other groups were given LPS （400 μg/kg） intraperitoneally for 7 consecutive days to establish neuroinflammatory model. Brain tissues were taken under anesthesia 4 h after the final administration. The morphological changes of neuronal cells in mice were observed； the contents of nitric oxide （NO）， tumor necrosis factor α （TNF- α）， interleukin-1β （IL-1β）， IL-6 and IL-10 were measured， and the expressions of inflammatory pathway-related proteins [inducible NO synthase （iNOS）， cyclooxygenase-2 （COX-2）， myeloid differentiation factor 88 （Myd88） and protein kinase C （PKC）] were measured in the brain tissues of mice. RESULTS Compared with the normal control group， the neuronal arrangement in the hippocampal region of the brain tissue of mice in the LPS group was sparsely disorganized， with a large number of neuronal fixations and shrunken nuclei； the contents of TNF-α， IL-1β， IL-6 and NO in the brain tissue were significantly increased， the contents of IL-10 were significantly decreased， and the relative expressions of iNOS， COX-2， Myd88 and PKC proteins were significantly increased （P＜0.05）. Compared with the LPS group， the neuronal pathological changes in the brain tissue of mice in the TFB low-dose， medium-dose and high-dose groups were 202014810） significantly improved， and the changes of the above indices in the brain tissue were significantly reversed （P＜0.05） CONCLUSIONS TFB has an inhibitory effect on E-mail：pangxjun@163.com neuroinflammation， and its mechanism of action may be related to down-regulation of the expressions of inflammatory pathway-related proteins iNOS， COX-2， Myd88 and PKC， and reduction of inflammatory factors release.

Threats to health and conservation of free-living sloths (Bradypus and Choloepus) under anthropic influence in the city of Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil / Ameaças à saúde e conservação de preguiças (Bradypus e Choloepus) de vida livre sob influência antrópica em Manaus, Estado do Amazonas, Brasil

Abstract Anthropogenic disturbances affecting forest areas can increase disease prevalence and susceptibility in several species of arboreal mammals, such as sloths. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the most common conditions in body systems of free-ranging sloths admitted at the Wildlife Triage and Rehabilitation Center of Amazonas of the Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources. A total of 227 individuals (139 retrospective cases from 2015 to 2019, and 88 prospective cases from July 2020 to July 2021) were evaluated over a six-year period. Cases from the genus Bradypus showed involvement of the following body systems: 44% respiratory, 29% integumentary, 15% musculoskeletal, 5% digestive, 3% visual, 2% auditory, 1% circulatory and 1% genitourinary, while that distribution in the genus Choloepus was: 39% musculoskeletal, 27% integumentary, 19% respiratory, 9% digestive, 3% circulatory, 1% visual, 1% auditory and 1% genitourinary. The results reveal significant differences between the condition detected and the genus (Bradypus and Choloepus), age and case outcome. These results can provide data for future investigations of sloth diseases, confirming lesions, as well as motivating and suggesting adequate management methods.

Resumo Distúrbios antrópicos que afetam áreas florestais podem aumentar a prevalência de afecções e a suscetibilidade às doenças em diversas espécies de mamíferos arborícolas, como as preguiças. Desta forma, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as condições mais comuns nos sistemas orgânicos de preguiças de vida livre admitidas no Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres do Amazonas. Um total de 227 indivíduos (139 casos retrospectivos de 2015 a 2019 e 88 casos prospectivos de julho de 2020 a julho de 2021) foram avaliados durante um período de seis anos. Para o gênero Bradypus foram diagnosticadas 44% de afecções do sistema respiratório, 29% tegumentar, 15% musculoesquelético, 5% digestório, 3% visual, 2% auditivo, 1% circulatório e 1% genitourinário. Por sua vez, para o gênero Choloepus foram detectadas 39% de afecções do sistema musculoesquelético, 27% tegumentar, 19% do sistema respiratório, 19% do sistema respiratório, 9% digestório, 3% circulatório, 1% visual, 1% auditivo e 1% genitourinário. Os resultados mostraram diferenças significativas na prevalência da afecção e gênero das preguiças (Bradypus e Choloepus), a faixa etária e desfecho do caso. Esses resultados podem fornecer subsídios para investigar as doenças de preguiças, confirmando afecções, motivo e sugerir métodos adequados de manejo.

Study on the different extraction fractions of Agrimonia pilosa against hepatic fibrosis / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To study different extraction fractions of Agrimonia pilosa against h epatic fibrosis. METHODS Using hepatic stellate cells HSC-T 6 of rats as objects ，the effects of different extraction fractions （total extract ，ethyl acetate fraction ， petroleum ether fraction and n-butanol fraction ）with different concentrations （0.5，5，50，500，5 000 μg/mL，calculated by raw drug）of A. pilosa on the proliferation of HSC-T 6 cells were detected （after treated for 24，48，72 h）；median inhibition concentration（IC50）was also caculated. Platelet-derived growth factor （PDGF-BB）was used to induce the activation of HSC-T 6 cells to establish hepatic fibrosis cell model. Flow cytometry was used to detect the effects of different extraction fractions of A. pilosa on apoptosis of HSC-T 6 cells. The expression of collagen Ⅰ（Col-Ⅰ）in the supernatant was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of α-smooth muscle actin （α-SMA），Col-Ⅰ，B-cell lymphoma- 2（Bcl-2），Bcl-2-associated X protein （Bax）and caspase- 3 were detected by Western blot assay. RESULTS Total extract ，ethyl acetate fraction ，petroleum ether fraction and n-butanol fraction of A. pilosa could significantly increase the apoptotic rate of HSC-T 6 cells（P＜0.01）. After treated for 24 h，IC50 of above fractions were 50.17，20.75，5.82，4.09 μg/mL，respectively. After intervened with PDGF-BB ，the expression of Col- Ⅰ in supernatant of HSC-T 6 cells as well as protein expression of Col- Ⅰ，α-SMA，Bcl-2，Bax and caspase- 3 in HSC-T6 cells were increased significantly （P＜0.01）. After intervened with different extraction fractions of A. pilosa ，most of the expressions of above proteins in HSC-T 6 cell culture supernatant or cells were significantly reversed compared with PDGF-BB group （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）， and the intervention effect of n-butanol fraction of A. pilosa was the most significant. CONCLUSIONS Different extraction fractions of A. pilosa can inhibite the proliferation of HSC-T 6 cells and induce their apoptosis；n-butanol fraction from A. pilosa may be an effective fraction to exert the effect of anti-hepatic fibrosis.

Lengua negra pilosa asociada a carcinoma escamocelular de esófago / Black hairy tongue associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus

Resumen La lengua negra pilosa (LNP) es una alteración benigna caracterizada por coloración oscura e hipertrofia con hiperqueratosis en las papilas filiformes de la superficie de la lengua. Han sido implicados varios factores intrínsecos y extrínsecos como causales, entre ellos la pobre higiene dental, el tabaquismo, la ingesta de bebidas oscuras, el uso de antibióticos y algunas patologías malignas. Reportamos el caso de un paciente con carcinoma escamocelular avanzado de esófago medio conjunto con LNP, asociación no encontrada previamente en la literatura.

Abstract Black hairy tongue (BHT) is a benign disorder characterized by dark coloration and hypertrophy with hyperkeratosis in filiform papillae on the surface of the tongue. Several intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including poor dental hygiene, smoking, drinking dark beverages, indiscriminate use of antibiotics, and some malignant diseases, have been proposed as potential causes. This is the case of a patient with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the mid esophagus in conjunction with BHT, a previously unknown association.

Bidens pilosa L. (Asteraceae) cultivated in Brazil on acute liver disease in dogs / [Bidens pilosa L. (Asteraceae) cultivada no Brasil na doença hepática aguda em cães]

Bidens pilosa L. is a medicinal plant popularly used for treatment of liver diseases. In this study, the dry extract of aerial parts of Bidens pilosa and Silymarin, a phytocomplex obtained from the Silybum marianum fruits and marketed as hepatoprotective, were tested in dogs experimentally acutely intoxicated with carbon tetrachloride. The liver activity was evaluated by hematological and biochemical profiles, and histological and ultrasound analyzes. It was observed that the lowest serum activities of ALT and serum concentrations of total bilirubin occurred in the groups treated with the dry extract of Bidens pilosa, while only decreased serum concentrations of total bilirubin occurred in the group treated with Silymarin. Best liver recovery was also observed for the dry extract of B. pilosa at a 400mg/Kg dose by ultrasonography. This study showed that the dry extract of Bidens pilosa acted more efficiently in the treatment of acute toxic hepatitis induced in dogs than Silymarin.(AU)

Bidens pilosa L. é uma planta medicinal utilizada popularmente para tratamento de doenças hepáticas. Neste trabalho, o extrato seco das partes aéreas da Bidens pilosa e a silimarina, um fitocomplexo obtido dos frutos da Silybum marianum e comercializado como hepatoprotetor, foram testados em cães intoxicados experimentalmente de forma aguda com tetracloreto de carbono. A atividade hepática foi avaliada por meio dos perfis hematológico e bioquímico, análises histológica e ultrassonográfica. Observou-se que, nos grupos tratados com o extrato seco da Bidens pilosa, ocorreram as menores atividades séricas da ALT e de concentrações séricas de bilirrubina total, enquanto no grupo tratado com silimarina, ocorreu apenas diminuição de concentrações séricas de bilirrubina total. Melhor recuperação hepática também foi verificada para o extrato seco de B. pilosa na dose de 400mg/kg por ultrassonografia. Este estudo evidenciou que o extrato seco da Bidens pilosa atuou de forma mais eficiente no tratamento da hepatite aguda tóxica induzida em cães do que a silimarina.(AU)

Descrição anatômica da artéria carótida externa e seus ramos na preguiça-comum / Anatomical description of external carotid artery and its branches in sloth

Bradypus variegatus, espécie pertencente à família Bradypodidae e à superordem Xenarthra, pode ser considerada modelo biológico de caráter multidisciplinar. Assim, realizou-se um trabalho de descrição anatômica da artéria carótida externa (ACE) e dos seus ramos no bicho-preguiça B. variegatus. Utilizaram-se 10 animais adultos, sendo todos fêmeas, que foram submetidos à dissecação, constatando-se que a artéria (a.) carótida comum se bifurca, em externa e interna, no nível do primeiro anel traqueal. A ACE, então, segue estendendo-se até a maxila, onde emite ramos para a região temporal e para o polo posterior do olho. Em todos os animais estudados, foram observados sete ramos principais da ACE, que, segundo a sua origem e localização, foram denominados como a. auricular, a. lingual, a. facial, a. alveolar, a. inferior, a. temporal, a. maxilar e a. oftálmica. Os ramos maxilar e oftálmico correspondem aos terminais e os demais são ramos colaterais. Em 50% dos animais analisados, foi verificada a presença de anastomoses arteriais e 40% deles apresentaram o acréscimo de um ramo aos principais. Desses, 30% demonstraram a presença de um ramo traqueal e 10% de um ramo sublingual, sendo esses ramos colaterais.(AU)

Bradypus variegatus is a species belonging to the family Bradypodidae and superorder Xenarthra, which should be considered as a multidisciplinary biological model. Thus, an anatomical description of the external carotid artery (ACE) and its branches in sloth B. variegatus was studied. Ten adult animals, all of them female, were submitted to dissection, and it was observed that the common carotid artery (a.) bifurcates in external and internal at the level of the first tracheal ring. Then, ACE extends through the maxilla where it launches branches to the temporal region and posterior eye side. For all sampled animals, seven principal branches of ACE were observed, and according to their origin and location were denominated as auricular, lingual, facial, bottom alveolar, temporal, maxillary and ophthalmic arteries. The maxillary and ophthalmic branches correspond to the terminals and the other branches are collateral. Presence of arterial anastomoses was observed in 50% of the sampled animals and 40% of them had increase of a branch on the principal. In these, 30% had presence of one tracheal branch and 10% of a sublingual branch, considering these branches as collateral.(AU)

Effect and mechanism of Bidens pilosa decoction on non-alcoholic fatty liver induced by high fat and high glucose in mice / 中国中药杂志

This study aimed to investigate the effect and possible mechanism of Bidens pilosa decoction on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) induced by high fat and high glucose in mice. Bald/c mice were randomly divided into normal group, model group, metformin(200 mg·kg~(-1)) treatment group, Bidens pilosa decoction(10 g·kg~(-1)) treatment group, metformin and B. pilosa decoction(100 mg·kg~(-1)+5 g·kg~(-1)) treatment group. Except for the normal group, mice in the other four groups were fed with high-fat and high-glucose diet for 8 weeks to establish the non-alcoholic fatty liver model. After 4 weeks of treatment, blood was collected from the eyeballs, the mice were sacrificed, and relevant indicators were detected. The results showed that compared with the model group, blood lipid and blood glucose levels of each treatment group were significantly lower(P<0.05); HE staining results showed that liver pathological damage in each treatment group was significantly improved; oil red O staining results showed fat distribution in each treatment group significantly reduced(P<0.01); immunohistochemical staining showed that glucose regulated the protein expression of protein 78(GRP78) in liver tissues of each treatment group was also significantly reduced(P<0.01); Western blot results showed that endoplasmic reticulum stress signal pathway-related factors GRP78, phosphorylated-protein kinase R-like ER kinase(p-PERK), eukaryotic translation-initiation factor 2α(eIF2α), activating transcription factor 4(ATF4), C/EBP homologous protein(Chop), inositol requiring 1α(IRE1α), and cleaved-cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase 12(cleaved-caspase-12) were significantly reduced(P<0.01). The results of the combined drug treatment group were better than those of the single drug treatment group. These results showed that B. pilosa decoction had the effect in improving non-alcoholic fatty liver, and its mechanism may be related to the down-regulation of the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress(ERS)-related factors, and the reduction of the apoptosis of hepatocytes caused by ERS and the down-regulation of blood lipid and blood glucose levels.

Evolutionary aspects on the origin, distribution and ramifications of the ischiadicus nerve in the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) / Aspectos evolutivos sobre as origens, distribuições e ramificações dos nervos isquiáticos do tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

This work aimed to describe the origin, distribution, and ramifications of the ischiadicus nerve in the giant anteater and to provide anatomical data which could explain not only the evolutionary aspects but also provide important information for other related works. For the present study, four specimens were used, prepared by perfusion of 10% formaldehyde solution via the femoral artery, for conservation and dissection. The origin of the right and left ischiadicus nerves in the giant anteater from the ventral ramification of the third lumbar (L3) and the first (S1), second (S2), and third (S3) sacral spinal nerves. These nerves were symmetrical in all animals studied. The distribution and ramification occurred to the superficial, middle, and deep gluteal, gemelli, piriform, quadratus femoris, tensor fasciae latae, caudal crural abductor, cranial and caudal parts of the biceps femoris, adductor, semitendinous, and cranial and caudal parts of the semimembranous muscles. Based on the origins of the ischiadicus nerves, there is a caudal migration in the nerve location in animals in a more recent position on the evolutionary scale due to reconfiguration of the lumbosacral plexus, resulting from the increase in a number of lumbar vertebrae. There is no complete homology of the muscle innervation.(AU)

Objetivou-se descrever as origens, distribuições e ramificações dos nervos isquiáticos no tamanduá-bandeira, disponibilizando, assim, dados anatômicos que possam não só elucidar os aspectos evolutivos como também fornecer informações importantes para áreas afins. Foram utilizados quatro espécimes preparados por meio da perfusão de formaldeído 10% via artéria femoral, para conservação e dissecação. As origens dos nervos isquiáticos direito e esquerdo no tamanduá-bandeira foram provenientes dos ramos ventrais dos nervos espinhais lombares três e sacrais um, dois e três, sendo simétricos em todos os animais estudados. As distribuições e ramificações ocorreram nos músculos glúteos superficial, médio e profundo; gêmeo; piriforme; quadrado femoral; tensor da fáscia lata; abdutor crural caudal; bíceps femoral parte cranial; bíceps femoral parte caudal; adutor; semitendíneo; semimembranáceo parte cranial e semimembranáceo parte caudal. Notou-se que houve uma migração caudal na localização deste nervo nos animais mais recentes na escala evolutiva, devido a uma reconfiguração do plexo lombossacral decorrente do aumento no número de vértebras lombares, não havendo uma homologia total quanto à inervação dos músculos.(AU)

Novedades en la distribución del género Ochthera (Diptera: Ephydridae) en Colombia / Novelties on the distribution of the genus Ochthera (Diptera: Ephydridae) from Colombia

RESUMEN Se actualiza la información taxonómica y geográfica de Ochthera para Colombia, un género con especies benéficas, reconocidas por sus hábitos depredadores de insectos pequeños terrestres y larvas de mosquitos. Se incluye el primer registro de Ochthera (O.) pilosa y nuevos datos de distribución para Ochthera (O.) regalis y Ochthera (O.) angustifacies. Se agregan ilustraciones, comentarios de su distribución y mapas.

ABSTRACT We update taxonomic and geographic information for genus Ochthera in Colombia, a taxon containing beneficial species known by their predatory habits on terrestrial insects and mosquito larvae. We consider a first record of Ochthera (O.) pilosa, and new distribution data of Ochthera (O.) regalis and Ochthera (O.) angustifacies, adding illustrations, comments on their distribution, and maps.

Sexagem em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) por meio do teste da reação em cadeia da polimerase / Polymerase chain reaction for sexing in giant anteater's (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

Em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) não há dimorfismo sexual, tornando-se necessária a diferenciação entre machos e fêmeas, em especial naqueles indivíduos com finalidade reprodutiva. Entre as diversas técnicas empregadas para a caracterização sexual, a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) é utilizada em mamíferos para identificar uma sequência genética especifica do cromossomo Y (SRY), sendo considerado um meio moderno e eficaz de determinação sexual. O objetivo deste trabalho é padronizar um protocolo para determinação sexual de tamanduá-bandeira por meio da técnica de PCR, utilizando material genético extraído do bulbo capilar desses animais. Mediante esse protocolo, foi possível determinar o sexo de sete animais testados, sendo compatível com o sexo de cada indivíduo. Conclui-se que o protocolo padronizado apresentou total eficácia, sendo possível determinar o sexo de tamanduás-bandeira utilizando material genético extraído do bulbo capilar.(AU)

There is no sexual dimorphism in the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), so the distinction between males and females become necessary, especially in animals with reproductive purpose. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), among the various techniques used for characterization, is considered a modern and effective means of sex determination and used in mammals to identify the Y chromosome (SRY) specifies genetic sequence. The objective of this work is to standardize a protocol for sex determination of giant anteater by PCR technique, using genetic material extracted from the capillary bulb of these animals. With this protocol was possible the sex determination of seven tested animals, being compatible with the sex of each individual. In conclusion, this protocol showed total effectiveness, being possible to determine the giant anteater sex using genetic material extracted from the capillary bulb.(AU)

Impact of Altitude on Morphological Traits-based Phenotypic Variability in Bidens pilosa L. from Three Natural Regions of Burundi

Aims: To examine the possible influence of varying altitudes on the morphological traits-based phenotypic variability in Bidens pilosa L. Study Design: Randomly selected plants from each natural region. Place and Duration of Study: Three natural regions of Burundi, i.e. IMBO (842 m), KIRIMIRO (1645 m), and MUGAMBA (2075 m), between November 2015 and May 2016. Methodology: We randomly selected 36 plants (12 plants from each of the three sites of seed sowing and plant development) for which we measured plant life cycle stages such as the period of germination, the period of leaf formation, flowering period, fruit formation period and complete maturity period. Plant height, internode length, leaf length, leaf width, inflorescence length, achene length, inflorescence number, node number, achene number per inflorescence and achene number per plant, after plant complete maturity were also recorded. Obtained data were statistically analyzed. Results: Bidens pilosa from IMBO (842 m) showed the lowest periods of germination, leaf formation, flowering, fruit formation and complete maturity, while longest periods were observed in MUGAMBA (2075 m) region. In addition, one-way analysis of variance showed that phenotypic variation in Bidens pilosa was highly significant within and across populations (P = 0.000) for the studied quantitative morphological traits except the achene number/inflorescence (P = .887). Some traits increased with increase in altitude while others decreased with increase in altitude. Moreover, internode length, leaf length, inflorescence number and achene number per plant significantly differentiated the three populations from the three regions (P < 0.01). Cluster analysis revealed also that IMBO (842 m) population was different from KIRIMIRO (1645 m) and MUGAMBA (2075 m) which are tending to be closer. Conclusion: Altitudes significantly influenced phenotypic variability of Bidens pilosa. However, further studies on a wide range of morphological traits and altitudes are needed as well as biochemical and molecular analyses.

Review on Anti-tumor Effects Mechanism and Clinical Application of Agrimonia pilosa / 世界科学技术-中医药现代化

Agrimonia pilosa is one of the traditional Chinese herbal medicines for 2000 years history. Due to its various pharmacological effects, it is widely used in the clinical treatment of tumors and other diseases. Presently malignancy has become an important factor threatening human health that the anti-tumor effect of Agrimonia pilosa has attracted great attention. The author reviewed its anti-tumor effect mechanism by articles arrangement of experimental study, clinical study and experience introduction. A series of study revealed 3 mechanisms: blocking cell cycle, inducing apoptosis and strengthening the cellular immunity. As a kind of traditional Chinese herbal medicine which has anti-tumor effect, the Agrimonia pilosa should be reasonably applied according to the related research and previous experience.

Ramos do arco aórtico e da aorta torácica em bicho-preguiça (Bradypus variegatus) / Branches of the aortic arch and thoracic aorta of the sloth (Bradypus variegatus)

As preguiças são mamíferos arborícolas, bem específicos quanto aos hábitos e à morfofisiologia. Essa condição faz delas ainda mais vulneráveis aos impactos ambientais. Com o objetivo de fornecer informações que auxiliem na clínica médico-cirúrgica desses Xenarthras, realizou-se um estudo do arco aórtico e da artéria aorta torácica, a fim de se identificarem seus principais ramos. Foram utilizados 10 animais da espécie Bradypus variegatus, sendo uma fêmea e três machos submetidos a dissecação, por meio da qual foram obtidas medidas de diâmetro e comprimento dos vasos, enquanto três fêmeas e três machos destinaram-se à técnica de radiografia digital com contraste. Constatou-se uma sintopia uniforme do arco, bem como da porção descendente da artéria aorta no tórax. No entanto, a topografia difere consideravelmente. Com base nos ramos, percebeu-se, independentemente do sexo, uma maior variação naqueles originados do arco e dos que emergem da artéria aorta torácica e irrigam estruturas medianas e do antímero direito do tórax. Foram obtidos valores maiores para o diâmetro das artérias na fêmea do que nos machos e, para o comprimento da artéria aorta torácica, foram encontrados valores correspondentes em ambos. Toda essa variação dos bradipodídeos apresenta diferenças em relação a outros mamíferos.(AU)

Sloths are arboreal mammals, very specific, regarding their habits and morphology. This condition makes them even more vulnerable to environmental impacts. In order to provide information to assist in the medical and surgical assistance to these Xenarthras, a study of the aortic arch and thoracic portion of the descending aorta was carried out with the purpose of identify its main branches. Ten animals of the Bradypus variegatus species were used. One female and three males were submitted to dissection, where measurements of vessel diameter and length were obtained, while three females and three males were submitted to the digital contrast x-ray technique. There was a uniform syntopy of the arch, as well as of the descending portion of the aorta in the thorax. However, the topography differs considerably. Based on the branches, regardless of gender, a greater variation was observed in those originating from the arch, and those that emerge from the thoracic aorta and irrigate medial structures and the right antimere of the thorax. Greater values were obtained for the diameter of the arteries in the female than in the males and corresponding values for the length of the thoracic aorta in both. All this variation is possibly related to the adaptive processes of Bradipodidae over time.(AU)

Biología de Valeriana pilosa R. &. P. (Valerianaceae): una especie en peligro de extinción de las altas montañas de Perú / Valeriana pilosa R. &. P. (Valerianaceae) biology: an endangered species in the high mountains of Peru

El estudio se realizó en un área de vegetación natural en Campo Alegre (3708 msnm), centro poblado de Huanico, distrito de Namora, Cajamarca (Perú), donde Valeriana pilosa R. & P. crece espontáneamente. Se describió la planta, la semilla, la regeneración natural, la fenología de las poblaciones, el área foliar y la asignación de la materia seca a los órganos de las matas adultas. Se realizaron pruebas de germinación y se evaluó el crecimiento de las plántulas. La planta vive en el pajonal, asociada, principalmente, a especies de Calamagrostis y Stipa. Se regenera mediante semilla, bajo la protección de las plantas acompañantes. La fenología de las poblaciones estuvo relacionada con la temperatura y la precipitación pluvial. El área foliar por mata fue de 925 cm2 y el índice de cosecha promedio de 35.8 por ciento. Mil semillas pesaron 0.2 g y tuvieron 43 por ciento de germinación. Las plántulas crecieron 5.6 mm mes-1.

The study was conducted in an area of natural vegetation in Campo Alegre (3708 m), Huanico, Namora district, Cajamarca (Perú), where Valeriana pilosa R. & P. (“valeriana”) grows spontaneously. Plant, seed, natural regeneration, phenology of populations, leaf area and dry matter allocation of the organs of adult bush were described. Germination tests were performed and the growth of seedlings was evaluated. The plant lives in the scrubland, mainly associated with species of Calamagrostis and Stipa. It is regenerated by seed, under the protection of companion plants. The phenology of populations was related to temperature and rainfall. The leaf area per plant was 925 cm2 and the average harvest index of 35.8 percent. Thousand seeds weighed 0.2 g and had 43 percent germination. Seedlings were grown 5.6 mm month-1.

Movement anatomy of the gluteal region and thigh of the giant anteater Myrmecophaga tridactyla (Myrmecophagidae: Pilosa) / Anatomia do movimento da região glútea e coxa de Myrmecophaga tridactyla tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophagidae: pilosa)

Locomotion reveals the displacement and behavior manner of the species in their daily needs. According to different needs of the several species, different locomotor patterns are adopted. The shapes and attachment points of muscles are important determinants of the movements performed and consequently, the locomotion and motion patterns of living beings. It was aimed to associate anatomical, kinesiology and biomechanics aspects of the gluteal region and thigh of the giant anteater to its moving characteristics and locomotor habits. It was used three specimens of Myrmecophaga tridactyla, settled in formaldehyde aqueous solution at 10% and subsequently, dissected using usual techniques in gross anatomy. The morphological characteristics of the gluteal region and thigh that influence the patterns of movement and locomotion of animals, were analyzed and discussed in light of literature. All muscles of the gluteal region and thigh of giant anteater show parallel arrangement of the muscular fibers, being flat or fusiform. These muscles are formed in the joint which the interpotent type biolever act. These morphological characteristics indicate a greater predominance of amplitude and movement speed at the expense of strength. On the other hand, features such as osteometric index and the observation of giant anteater motion indicate the opposite, what reflects this animal lack of expertise in locomotor habits and shows the need of future realization of more detailed studies in this subject.(AU)

A locomoção revela o modo de deslocamento e comportamento das espécies nas suas necessidades diárias. De acordo com as diferentes necessidades das diversas espécies, diferentes padrões locomotores são adotados. As formas e pontos de fixação dos músculos são importantes determinantes dos movimentos realizados e, por conseguinte, dos padrões de locomoção e movimentação dos seres vivos. Objetivou-se associar aspectos anatômicos, cinesiológicos e biomecânicos da região glútea e coxa do tamanduá bandeira às suas características de movimentação e hábitos locomotores. Utilizaram-se três espécimes de Myrmecophaga tridactyla, fixados em solução aquosa de formaldeído a 10% e posteriormente, dissecados usando as técnicas usuais em anatomia macroscópica. As características morfológicas da região glútea e coxa que influenciam os padrões de movimento e locomoção dos animais foram analisadas e discutidas à luz da literatura. Todos os músculos da região glútea e coxa do tamanduá bandeira apresentam disposição paralela das fibras musculares, sendo planos ou fusiformes. Esses músculos formam nas articulações sobre as quais agem bioalavancas do tipo interpotente. Essas características morfológicas indicam maior predominância de amplitude e velocidade de movimento em detrimento da força. Por outro lado, características como os índices osteométricos e a observação da movimentação do tamanduá bandeira indicam o oposto, o que reflete a falta de especialização desse animal quanto aos hábitos locomotores e sinaliza a necessidade da realização futura de estudos mais detalhados a esse respeito.(AU)

Evaluation of two Brazilian indigenous plants for phytostabilization and phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils / Avaliação de duas plantas nativas brasileiras para fitoestabilização e fitorremediação de solos contaminados com cobre

Abstract Indigenous plants have been grown naturally and vigorously in copper contaminated soils. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the phytoremediation ability of two indigenous plants naturally grown in two vineyard soils copper contaminated, and in a copper mining waste. However, it was evaluated the macro and micronutrient uptake and the potential of phytoremediation. So, a greenhouse study was carried out with Bidens pilosa and Plantago lanceolata in samples of vineyard soils (Inceptisol and Mollisol) copper contaminated, and in a copper mining waste. Plant growth, macro and micronutrient up take, tolerance index (TI), translocation factor (TF), metal extraction ratio (MER), bioaccumulation factor (BCF), plant effective number of the shoots (PENs), and plant effective number of the total plant (PENt) were analyzed. Both plants grown in vineyard soils showed high phytomass production and TI. P. lanceolata plants cultivated in the Inceptisol showed the highest copper concentrations in the shoots (142 mg kg–1), roots (964 mg kg–1) and entire plants (1,106 mg kg–1). High levels of copper were phytoaccumulated from the Inceptisol by B. pilosa and P. lanceolata with 3,500 and 2,200 g ha–1 respectively. Both B. pilosa and P. lanceolata plants showed characteristics of high copper hyperaccumulator. Results showed that both species play an important role in the natural copper phytoaccumulation in both vineyard soils contaminated with copper, being important to its phytoremediation.

Resumo Plantas nativas crescem naturalmente e vigorosamente em solos contaminados com cobre. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade de fitorremediação de duas plantas nativas, naturalmente encontradas em dois solos de vitivinicultura contaminados com cobre, e em rejeito de mineração de cobre. Foram avaliados os teores de macro e micronutrientes nos tecidos das plantas, e o potencial de fitorremediação. Assim, um estudo em casa de vegetação foi realizado com plantas de Bidens pilosa e Plantago lanceolata, com amostras de dois solos de vitivinicultura (Neossolos e Cambissolos) contaminados com cobre, e com rejeito de mineração de cobre. O crescimento das plantas, teores de macro e micronutrientes nos tecidos, índice de tolerância (TI), fator de translocação (TF), taxa de extração do metal (MER), fator de bioacumulação (BCF), número efetivo dos plantas da parte aérea (PENs) e número efetivo de plantas inteiras (PENt) foram analisados. Ambas as espécies cultivadas em solos vitivinicultura mostraram elevada produção de fitomassa e os TI. P. lanceolata cultivadas no Neossolo mostraram as concentrações de cobre mais elevados na parte aérea (142 mg kg–1), nas raízes (964 mg kg–1) e nas plantas inteiras (1.106 mg kg–1). Altos níveis de cobre foram fitoacumulados pelas plantas B. pilosa e P. lanceolata com 3.500 e 2.200 g ha–1, respectivamente, quando cultivadas em Neossolo. Ambas as espécies apresentaram características hiperacumuladoras de cobre. Os resultados mostraram que estas espécies desempenham um papel importante na fitoacumulação de cobre naturalmente em ambos os solos de vitivinicultura contaminados com cobre, sendo importantes para a fitorremediação.

Serosurvey of Leptospira interrogans, Brucella abortus and Chlamydophila abortus infection in free-ranging giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) from Brazil / Inquérito sorológico de Leptospira interrogans, Brucella abortus e Chlamydophila abortus em tamanduás-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) de vida livre no Brasil

A serological survey for antibodies against Leptospira interrogans, Brucella abortus, and Chlamydophila abortus was conducted in 21 clinically healthy, free-ranging giant ant- eaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) from Parque Nacional das Emas (Goiás State, Brazil; n=6), Parque Nacional da Serra da Canastra (Minas Gerais State, Brazil; n=9), and RPPN SESC Pantanal (Mato Grosso State, Brazil; n=6) between July 2001 and September 2006. Sera were screened for antibodies against 22 serovars of Leptospira interrogans with a microscopic agglutination test. Twelve tested positive for L. interrogansserovars sentot (n=5 in PN Emas, n=2 in PN Serra da Canastra), butembo (n=2 in PN Serra da Canastra), autumnalis, bataviae, and shermani/icterohaemorrhagiae(n=1 each in SESC Pantanal)One adult female tested positive for B. abortus with the buffered plate antigen test. All sera were negative for C. abortususing the complement fixation text. This is the first report of pathogens that may interfere with the reproduction and population dynamics of free-ranging giant anteaters.

Inquéritos sorológicos para detecção de anticorpos contra Leptospira interrogans, Brucella abortus, e Chlamydophila abortus foram realizados em 21 tamanduás-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) de vida livre do Parque Nacional das Emas (Goiás, Brasil, n=6), o Parque Nacional da Serra da Canastra (Minas Gerais, Brasil, n=9) e RPPN SESC Pantanal (Mato Grosso, Brasil, n=6) entre julho de 2001 e setembro de 2006. Os sor os foram testados para anticorpos contra 22 sorotipos de Leptospira interrogans com um teste de aglutinação microscópica. Doze animais foram considerados positivos para L. interrogans sorovares sentot (n=5 em PN Emas, n=2 em PN Serra da Canastra), butembo (n=2 em PN Serra da Canastra), autumnalis, bataviae e shermani/icterohaemorrhagiae(n=1 para cada sorovar em SESC Pantanal). Uma fêmea adulta testou positivo para B. abortuscom o teste do antígeno tamponado. Todos os soros se mostraram negativos para C. abortusatravés do teste de fixação do complemento. Este é o primeiro relato de patógenos que podem interferir na dinâmica reprodutiva de populações de tamanduás em estado selvagem.

Efeito da competição de plantas daninhas na cultura do feijoeiro / Effect of weed competition in bean

Foram realizados dois ensaios com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da interferência de Brachiaria plantaginea (Link) Hitchc. , Amaranthus hybridus L. e Bidens pilosa L., bem como, a interferência do feijoeiro sobre o crescimento dessas plantas daninhas, além do efeito da mistura herbicida, fomesafen+fluazifop-p-butyl, sobre o desenvolvimento do feijoeiro. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em casa de vegetação, em vasos de 15 dm³, utilizandose o delineamento em blocos casualizados. No primeiro experimento avaliou-se a interferência das plantas daninhas e o efeito da mistura herbicida sobre a cultura, já no segundo avaliou o efeito da interferência do feijoeiro no desenvolvimento das três espécies de plantas daninhas. A competição do feijoeiro com as plantas daninhas ocasionou efeitos negativos no crescimento da cultura, assim como, reduziu o crescimento das plantas infestantes. B. plantaginea e B. pilosa foram às espécies daninhas que mais acarretaram efeito negativo no crescimento da cultura. Todas as plantas infestantes tiveram o seu crescimento afetado negativamente quando em convivência com a cultura. A mistura herbicida ocasionou redução no crescimento radicular da cultura, podendo se refletir em futuras perdas de rendimento em condição de déficit hídrico ou escassez de nutrientes.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of interference Brachiaria plantaginea, Bidens pilosa and Amaranthus hybridus in the growth of bean plants, as well as the interference of bean on the growth of these weeds, plus the effect of the herbicide mixture, fomesafen + fluazifop-p-butyl, on the development of bean. The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse in pots of 15 dm ³, using a randomized block design. The first experiment evaluated the effect of weed and the effect of the herbicide mixture on the culture, in the second evaluated the effect of interference of bean in the development of three weed species. The bean competition with weeds caused negative effects on crop growth as well as reduced the growth of weeds. B. plantaginea and B. pilosa were the weeds that have resulted in more negative effect on crop growth. All weeds had negative affected growth of the culture. The herbicide mixture caused reduction in root growth of culture; this fact may be reflected in future income losses in water stress conditions or lack of nutrients.

Alelopatia de acículas de pínus na germinação e desenvolvimento de plântulas de milho, picão preto e alface / Allelopathy of pine needles on the germination and development of corn, lettuce and beggartick

Os sistemas agrosilvipastoris estão ampliando os espaços ocupados e ganhando novos adeptos, tendo em vista ampliações produtivas nas mesmas áreas. Porém algumas questões, como efeitos alelopáticos de algumas culturas, nesse caso o pinus, ainda são pouco conhecidas. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho avaliar o efeito alelopático do extrato aquoso de acículas de Pinus taeda na germinação e no desenvolvimento de plântulas de alface, picão-preto e milho. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com os tratamentos distribuídos em um bifatorial (2x5), onde: condições das acículas (verdes e secas) x concentrações dos extratos (0, 25, 50, 75 e 100%), em quatro repetições sob condições de temperatura, umidade e luminosidade controladas. As avaliações foram realizadas no tempo em intervalos regulares de 24 horas, de 0 a 144 horas. Avaliou-se a germinação, velocidade média da germinação, comprimento das radículas e epicótilos da alface, picão-preto e milho. Extratos a base de acícula verde afetou significativamente as variáveis, onde o efeito aumentava conforme aumentava a concentração, sendo o efeito mais perceptível no picão-preto. Já no extrato a base de acículas seca de pínus, houve resultados mínimos quando comparados a testemunha.

Agrosilvipastoris systems are expanding the spaces occupied and gaining new adherents in order expansions productive in the same areas. But some issues, such as allelopathic effects of some cultures, in which case the pine, are still poorly known. This research aimed to evaluate the allelopathic effect of aqueous extract from the pine needles on the germination and development of lettuce, corn and beggarticks seedlings. The experiment was carried in a completely randomized design with treatments arranged in a factorial (2x5), where: conditions of the needles (green and dry) x extracts concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) in four replications, under temperature, humidity and light controlled. Evaluations were carried out time intervals of 24 hours, from 0 to 144 hours. It was evaluated the germination, average speed of germination, the length of the primary roots of lettuce and the length from the seedlings roots of lettuce, beggarticks and corn. Extracts the base of green needles affected the variables, where the effect increased with increase in concentration, the effect being more marked in beggarticks. In the statement the basis of dry pine needles, there were minimal results when compared to control.

Análise seminal e padronização da coloração eosina-nigrosina em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) / Giant anteater's (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) semen analysis and eosin-nigrosin staining standardization

Os estudos que envolvem os aspectos reprodutivos do tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) podem contribuir para a preservação da espécie auxiliando no desenvolvimento de um manejo reprodutivo mais eficiente em cativeiro. O presente estudo teve como objetivo obter uma melhor compreensão da fisiologia reprodutiva por meio da caracterização física e morfológica do sêmen de tamanduá-bandeira. Foram realizados três exames reprodutivos em dois tamanduás-bandeira mantidos no Zoológico da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá/MT/Brasil. O método de coleta do sêmen foi a eletroejaculação. O volume médio obtido foi de 2,62 ± 1,67 mL, com motilidade média de 50 ± 20% e vigor de 2,17 ± 0,82. O pH médio foi de 7,29 ± 0,40. Quanto à patologia espermática foram encontrados 16,5% de defeitos maiores, 20,5 % de defeitos menores, perfazendo 37 ± 4,2% de defeitos totais. Os testes preliminares de padronização da coloração eosina-nigrosina mostraram-se eficazes para avaliar a integridade da membrana plasmática de espermatozoides nesta espécie, que nesta pesquisa foi de 65 ± 7,77%.

Studies involving the reproductive aspects of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) can be contributed to the preservation of this specie. The aim of these study was accessed the reproductive physiology and describe physical and morphological giant anteater's sperm. We conducted three reproductive examination in two anteater maintained at the Federal University of Mato Grosso Zoo, Cuiaba/MT/Brazil. The method of semen collection used was electroejaculation. The volume average obtained was 2.62 ± 1.67 mL, the motility average was 50 ± 20% and the vigor was 2.17 ± 0.82. The pH mean was 7.29 ± 0.40. The sperm average concentration was 33.33 ± 12.52 x 106 sperm/mL. According sperm pathology we found 16.5% of larger defects, 20.5% of minor defects, amounting to 37 ± 4.2% of total defects. The preliminary tests of standardization of eosin-nigrosin staining proved to be effective to evaluate the integrity of plasma membrane of sperm in this species, in this research was 65 ± 7,77%.