Succession of the sessile benthic community at a coral reef restoration site

Introduction: Ecosystem restoration facilitates ecological succession. When a coral reef experiences a disturbance, the community of sessile benthic organisms can follow a successional trajectory that favors the dominance of coral or a change of state to an ecosystem dominated by algae. Objective: To better understand the impact of coral transplants on succession of the sessile benthic community. Methods: To measure and monitor the coral cover (cm2) of Pocillopora spp., and the composition of the associated benthic community, experimental and control coral reef patches were established at the coral restoration site in Golfo Dulce, South Pacific Costa Rica. Thirty Pocillopora spp. colonies were attached to nails on the substrate in an experimental patch. The control coral patch contained nails with non-transplanted colonies. Both treatments were photographed monthly during a period of eight months. Changes in the coverage of coral and other sessile benthic organisms were measured from the images and compared over time between the experimental and control patches. Results: The coral transplants experienced bleaching events in August through September 2019 and January through February 2020. The first bleaching event possibly due to sedimentation, and the second to high temperatures. By the end of the experiment, 83 % of the colonies had survived. The live colonies grew significantly following transplantation; > 67 % of their initial coverage area after eight months. In the experimental patch, the areas of Pocillopora spp., coralline crustose algae (CCA), and cyanobacteria increased while the area of algal turf decreased. The increase in coral coverage and CCA, and decrease in algal turf in the experimental patch could be due to herbivores attracted to transplants. The increase in cyanobacteria in the experimental patch could be the result of higher temperatures and may have been a factor in the death of colonies. Conclusions: The transplantation of Pocillopora spp. colonies in Golfo Dulce changed the early successional trajectory of the sessile benthic community to favor the dominance of coral dominance in the experimental patch. These results may be useful in informing expectations for future restoration efforts.

Introducción: La restauración de ecosistemas facilita la sucesión ecológica. Cuando un arrecife de coral experimenta una perturbación, la comunidad de organismos sésiles bentónicos puede seguir una trayectoria de sucesión que favorezca la dominancia del coral o un cambio de estado a un ecosistema dominado por algas. Objetivo: Comprender mejor el impacto de los trasplantes de coral en la sucesión de la comunidad bentónica sésil. Métodos: Para medir y monitorear la cobertura de coral (cm2) de Pocillopora spp. y la composición de la comunidad bentónica asociada se establecieron parches de arrecifes de coral experimentales y de control en el sitio de restauración de coral en Golfo Dulce, Pacífico Sur de Costa Rica. Treinta colonias de Pocillopora spp., se trasplantaron a los clavos en el sustrato en el parche experimental. El parche de coral de control contenía clavos sin colonias trasplantadas. Ambos tratamientos fueron fotografiados mensualmente durante un periodo de ocho meses. Los cambios en la cobertura de coral y otros organismos bentónicos sésiles se midieron a partir de las imágenes y se compararon a lo largo del tiempo entre los parches experimentales y de control. Resultados: Los trasplantes de coral experimentaron eventos de blanqueamiento de agosto a septiembre de 2019 y de enero a febrero de 2020. El primer evento de blanqueamiento puede haber sido el resultado de la sedimentación y el segundo puede deberse a las altas temperaturas. Al final del experimento, el 83 % de las colonias habían sobrevivido. Las colonias vivas crecieron significativamente después del trasplante; > 67 % de su área de cobertura inicial después de ocho meses. En el parche experimental, las áreas de Pocillopora spp., algas coralinas costrosas (ACC) y cianobacterias aumentaron mientras que el tapete de algas disminuyó. El aumento en la cobertura de coral y ACC, y la disminución en tapetes de algas en el parche experimental podría deberse a los herbívoros atraídos por los trasplantes. El aumento de cianobacterias en el parche experimental podría ser el resultado de temperaturas más altas y puede haber sido un factor en la muerte de las colonias. Conclusiones: El trasplante de las colonias de Pocillopora spp. en Golfo Dulce cambiaron la trayectoria de sucesión temprana de la comunidad bentónica sésil para favorecer la dominancia del coral en el parche experimental. Estos resultados pueden ser útiles para informar las expectativas de futuros esfuerzos de restauración.

Spectral analysis and Antibacterial activity of the bioactive principles of Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh collected from the Red sea, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia / Análise espectral e atividade antibacteriana dos princípios bioativos de Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh coletados no mar Vermelho, Jazan, Reino da Arábia Saudita

Seaweeds are a major marine resource that can be explored to develop novel pharmaceutical molecules. The present study showed the presence of unique bioactive components in the petroleum ether extract (PEE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Sargassum tenerrimum. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis suggested that the PEE of S. tenerrimum contained antibacterial biomolecules: hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 17-pentatriacontene, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, and acetate (ester). However, the ME of S. tenerrimum exhibited better antibacterial effect than the PEE due to the presence of the bioactive compounds 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester, tetratetracontane, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzenediol, and benzoic acid. Thus, promising antibacterial molecules can be isolated from S. tenerrimum for better therapeutic use.

As algas marinhas são um importante recurso marinho que pode ser explorado para desenvolver novas moléculas farmacêuticas. O presente estudo mostrou a presença de componentes bioativos únicos no extrato etéreo de petróleo (PEE) e no extrato metanólico (ME) de Sargassum tenerrimum. A análise por cromatografia gasosa espectrometria de massa sugeriu que o PEE de S. tenerrimum continha biomoléculas antibacterianas: ácido hexadecanoico, éster metílico, 17-pentatriaconteno, dasycarpidan-1-metanol e acetato (éster). Entretanto, o ME de S. tenerrimum exibiu melhor efeito antibacteriano do que o PEE devido à presença dos compostos bioativos ácido 1,2-benzenodicarboxílico, éster diisooctil, tetratetracontano, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzoenodiol e ácido benzoico. Assim, moléculas antibacterianas promissoras podem ser isoladas de S. tenerrimum para melhor uso terapêutico.

Spectral analysis and Antibacterial activity of the bioactive principles of Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh collected from the Red sea, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract Seaweeds are a major marine resource that can be explored to develop novel pharmaceutical molecules. The present study showed the presence of unique bioactive components in the petroleum ether extract (PEE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Sargassum tenerrimum. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis suggested that the PEE of S. tenerrimum contained antibacterial biomolecules: hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 17-pentatriacontene, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, and acetate (ester). However, the ME of S. tenerrimum exhibited better antibacterial effect than the PEE due to the presence of the bioactive compounds 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester, tetratetracontane, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzenediol, and benzoic acid. Thus, promising antibacterial molecules can be isolated from S. tenerrimum for better therapeutic use.

Resumo As algas marinhas são um importante recurso marinho que pode ser explorado para desenvolver novas moléculas farmacêuticas. O presente estudo mostrou a presença de componentes bioativos únicos no extrato etéreo de petróleo (PEE) e no extrato metanólico (ME) de Sargassum tenerrimum. A análise por cromatografia gasosa-espectrometria de massa sugeriu que o PEE de S. tenerrimum continha biomoléculas antibacterianas: ácido hexadecanoico, éster metílico, 17-pentatriaconteno, dasycarpidan-1-metanol e acetato (éster). Entretanto, o ME de S. tenerrimum exibiu melhor efeito antibacteriano do que o PEE devido à presença dos compostos bioativos ácido 1,2-benzenodicarboxílico, éster diisooctil, tetratetracontano, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzoenodiol e ácido benzoico. Assim, moléculas antibacterianas promissoras podem ser isoladas de S. tenerrimum para melhor uso terapêutico.

Spectral analysis and Antibacterial activity of the bioactive principles of Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh collected from the Red sea, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia / Análise espectral e atividade antibacteriana dos princípios bioativos de Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh coletados no mar Vermelho, Jazan, Reino da Arábia Saudita

Abstract Seaweeds are a major marine resource that can be explored to develop novel pharmaceutical molecules. The present study showed the presence of unique bioactive components in the petroleum ether extract (PEE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Sargassum tenerrimum. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis suggested that the PEE of S. tenerrimum contained antibacterial biomolecules: hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 17-pentatriacontene, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, and acetate (ester). However, the ME of S. tenerrimum exhibited better antibacterial effect than the PEE due to the presence of the bioactive compounds 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester, tetratetracontane, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzenediol, and benzoic acid. Thus, promising antibacterial molecules can be isolated from S. tenerrimum for better therapeutic use.

Resumo As algas marinhas são um importante recurso marinho que pode ser explorado para desenvolver novas moléculas farmacêuticas. O presente estudo mostrou a presença de componentes bioativos únicos no extrato etéreo de petróleo (PEE) e no extrato metanólico (ME) de Sargassum tenerrimum. A análise por cromatografia gasosa-espectrometria de massa sugeriu que o PEE de S. tenerrimum continha biomoléculas antibacterianas: ácido hexadecanoico, éster metílico, 17-pentatriaconteno, dasycarpidan-1-metanol e acetato (éster). Entretanto, o ME de S. tenerrimum exibiu melhor efeito antibacteriano do que o PEE devido à presença dos compostos bioativos ácido 1,2-benzenodicarboxílico, éster diisooctil, tetratetracontano, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzoenodiol e ácido benzoico. Assim, moléculas antibacterianas promissoras podem ser isoladas de S. tenerrimum para melhor uso terapêutico.

EFECTO DEL pH EN LAS TASAS DE BIOACUMULACIÓN DE METALES PESADOS EN LA MACROALGA Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) / Effect of pH on the bioacumulation rates of heavy metals in macroalgae Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales)

RESUMEN Uno de los factores que más influye en las características químicas de un metal en solución es el nivel de acidez. El pH, por lo tanto, afecta la reactividad del ion y por ende su interacción con los puntos de unión de la pared celular de la planta. Este estudio evaluó el efecto del pH en la capacidad de bioacumulación de metales pesados en el alga roja Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodophyta, Rhodomelaceae). Se sometieron talos del alga a diferentes concentraciones de mercurio (Hg) y Plomo (Pb), desde 0,1 hasta 10 mg/L para Hg y desde 0,1 hasta 15 mg/L para Pb, durante periodos exposición de 0, 12, 24 y 96 horas, bajo diferentes niveles de pH. Las concentraciones de metal acumulado se determinaron por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica. Las mayores tasas de acumulación se encontraron en el alga expuesta a pH 8 (tanto para Hg como para Pb), el cual es un nivel de pH muy cercano al medido en el área de muestreo. La concentración de metal en el alga se incrementó de manera lineal hasta las 48 h de exposición, tiempo en el que se evidenció una mayor eficiencia de acumulación durante el primer intervalo del periodo del bioensayo. El presente estudio permitió identificar el uso potencial del alga B. calliptera como especie bioindicadora de metales pesados en ambientes estuarinos.

ABSTRACT One of the factors with a bigger influence on the chemical characteristics of metal in solution is the level of acidity. Solution pH affects the cell wall metal-binding sites and the metal ion chemistry in water. This study evaluated the effect of pH on the bioaccumulation capacity in the red algae B. calliptera (Rhodophyta, Rhodomelaceae) exposed to different pH ranges. Algae thalli were subjected to different concentrations ofmercury (Hg) and Lead (Pb), at concentrations from 0.1 to 10 mg/L for Hg and from 0.1 to 15 mg/L for Pb, respectively, during the following exposure times: 0, 12, 24 and 96 hours for each ion. Metal concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry according to standard APHA methods. The highest accumulation rates were found when the algae were exposed to pH 8 (for both Hg and Pb), which is a level very close to that measured in the study area. The metal concentration in the algae increased linearly until 48 hrs, a time where a greater accumulation efficiency was evident. The present study allowed to identify the potential use of the alga B. calliptera as a bioindicator species for heavy metals in estuarine environments.

Ethanolic Extract of the Red Algae Meristiella echinocarpa (Areschoug) Confers Neuroprotection in Mice / Extrato Etanólico da Alga Vermelha Meristiella echinocarpa (Areschoug) Confere Neuroproteção em Camundongos

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of the ethanolic extract obtained from red algae marine Meristiella echinocarpa (Areschougiaceae) ­ EEMe. Methods: EEMe was used in doses ranging from 10 to 40 mg/kg, administered intraperitoneally in mice. Behavioral tests were performed to assess locomotor activity (open field), anxiety (elevated plus maze), depression (tail suspension), and motor coordination (rota-rod). The anticonvulsant effect of the algae extract was evaluated in two models of seizures induced by strychnine and pentylenetetrazol. The level of oxidative stress was also evaluated in the following brain areas: the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum. Statistical analysis was performed applying ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni test. Results: EEMe reduced significantly the number of crossing (36%) and rearing (54%) in the open field test and increased 1.3x the immobility time in the tail suspension test. In brain areas EEMe also reduced significantly malondialdehyde levels (striatum: 45%, hippocampus: 38%, prefrontal cortex: 37%) and nitrite levels (striatum: 72%, hippocampus: 79%, prefrontal cortex: 63%), and increased the reduced-glutathione levels (striatum: 72%, hippocampus: 73%, prefrontal cortex: 42%). In addition, the extract significantly prolonged the latency of seizures induced by strychnine (38%) or pentylenetetrazol (57%), and the latency of death induced by pentylenetetrazol (6.1x). Conclusion: EEMe exhibits antioxidant and anticonvulsant effects, probably involving GABAergic and glycinergic pathways.

Objetivos: este estudo teve como objetivo investigar os efeitos neuroprotetores do extrato etanólico da alga marinha vermelha Meristiella echinocarpa (Areschougiaceae) - EEMe. Métodos: EEMe foi utilizado em doses que variaram de 10 a 40 mg/kg, administrados via intraperitoneal em camundongos. Foram realizados testes comportamentais que avaliaram a atividade locomotora (campo aberto), a ansiedade (labirinto em cruz elevado), a depressão (suspensão em cauda) e a coordenação motora (rota-rod). O efeito anticonvulsivante do extrato da alga foi avaliado em dois modelos de convulsões por estricnina e pentilenotetrazol. Foi também realizada a avaliação do nível de estresse oxidativo nas seguintes áreas cerebrais: córtex pré-frontal, hipocampo e corpo estriado. A análise estatística foi realizada, aplicando a ANOVA seguida do teste de Bonferroni. Resultados: o EEMe reduziu, significativamente, o número de cruzamentos (36%) e o número de rearing (54%) no teste de campo aberto e aumentou, em 1,3x, o tempo de imobilidade no teste de suspensão pela cauda. Nas áreas cerebrais, o EEMe também reduziu, significativamente, os níveis de malondialdeído (estriado: 45%, hipocampo: 38%, córtex pré-frontal: 37%) e os níveis de nitrito (estriado: 72%, hipocampo: 79%, córtex pré-frontal: 63%) e aumentou a glutationa reduzida (estriado: 72%, hipocampo: 73%, córtex pré-frontal: 42%). Além disso, o EEMe prolongou, significativamente, a latência das convulsões induzidas por estricnina (38%) ou pentilenotetrazol (57%), e a latência da morte induzida por pentilenetetrazol (6,1x). Conclusão: o EEMe apresenta efeitos antioxidantes e anticonvulsivantes, provavelmente envolvendo as vias GABAérgica e glicinérgica.

Influencia de la herbivoría sobre la interacción alga-coral en un arrecife coralino de bahía Capurganá, Caribe colombiano

Introducción: Los arrecifes coralinos están entre los ecosistemas más importantes y valiosos del planeta. Sin embargo, en las últimas décadas han sufrido procesos de degradación, reduciendo su cobertura coralina y complejidad topográfica. La competencia alga-coral es un proceso ecológico importante en la dinámica de los arrecifes coralinos y estudiarla permite entender la resiliencia en estos sistemas. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto de la herbivoría sobre la competencia coral-alga bajo diferentes escenarios (empleando una combinación de enfoques descriptivos y experimentales) y dos épocas climáticas en Capurganá, Caribe colombiano (área de conservación marina, Hope Spot). Métodos: Entre julio 2018 y abril 2019, se evaluó el rol de la herbivoría, mediante un experimento de exclusión - no exclusión en 48 individuos coralinos bajo diferentes escenarios de interacción entre Siderastrea siderea y sus algas circundantes (tratamientos), la mitad de los corales juveniles se cubrieron con cajas metálicas de 2 400 cm2 fijas al bentos. Los tratamientos consistieron en: T1= Control, T2= Remoción de algas, T3= Daño coralino, T4= Juveniles en contacto con algas artificiales, T5= T2 + T3, T6= T2 + T4, T7= T3 + T4 y T8= T2 + T3 + T4. Resultados: Después de un muestreo total de nueve meses, se encontró diferencias entre escenarios con y sin exclusión (P= 0.006) y la época climática (P= 0.032), el crecimiento coralino fue mayor cuando las algas fueron removidas en presencia de herbívoros (DMS de Fisher, mean ± SE 9.871 ± 8.298) y la aparición de algas fue mayor dentro de las jaulas que fuera de ellas, mientras que el tratamiento de competencia no presentó interferencia en el crecimiento (P= 0.155). Los juveniles fueron colonizados por algas cuando su tejido fue dañado y sin herbívoros (mean ± SE 9.359 ± 3.901). Hubo diferencias en el crecimiento coralino entre épocas (época seca: Media 0.0029 ± SD 0.0243 cm2/día y época húmeda: Media 0.0022 ± SD 0.0161 cm2/día). Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que el crecimiento coralino depende de la presencia de herbívoros que regulan el crecimiento, reproducción y supervivencia de las algas; actualmente este proceso está siendo interrumpido como consecuencia de la sobrepesca en estos ecosistemas, por lo cual, es importante destacar que la reducción de la herbivoría resultó en un crecimiento más rápido de algas, demostrando la importancia crítica de la herbivoría para el resultado de la interacción competitiva. Sin embargo, algunas algas podrían ser benéficas para los juveniles coralinos cuando su abundancia es lo suficientemente grande para protegerlos de la depredación por peces y suficientemente pequeña para no reducir considerablemente su crecimiento. Estos procesos son decisivos en estos ecosistemas, particularmente en zonas donde éste es relevante desde una perspectiva ecológica, social, cultural y económica, lo cual hace que estos estudios sean importantes para la correcta implementación de manejo integrado en zonas arrecifales ayudando a la recuperación, protección y conservación del arrecife, y promoviendo la disminución de la pesca de herbívoros.

Introduction: Coral reefs are among the most important and valuable ecosystems on the world. However, in recent decades they have been under siege by degradation processes reducing their coral cover and topographic complexity. The coral-algae competition is an important ecological process in the dynamics of coral reefs thus studying is pivotal for understanding the resilience in these systems. Objective: To determine the effect of herbivory on coral-algae competition under different scenarios (using a combination of descriptive and experimental approaches) and two climatic seasons in Capurganá Bay, Colombian Caribbean, in a marine conservation area (Hope Spot). Methods: Between July 2018 and April 2019, the role of herbivory was evaluated, performing an exclusion - no exclusion experiment in 48 coral individuals under different scenarios of interaction between Siderastrea siderea and its surrounding algae (treatments), half of the juvenile corals were covered with 2 400 cm2 metal boxes fixed to the benthos. The treatments consisted of : T1= No manipulation (control), T2= Algae removal, T3= Coral damage, T4= Juveniles in contact with artificial algae, T5= T2 + T3, T6= T2 + T4, T7= T3 + T4 and T8= T2 + T3 + T4. Results: After nine months of experiments, differences were found between with and without exclusion (P= 0.006) and the climatic season (P= 0.032), it was found that coral growth was higher when algae were removed in the presence of herbivores (Fisher's LSD, mean ± SE 9.871 ± 8.298) and the appearance of algae was greater inside the cages than outside them, while the competitive treatment did not show growth interference (P= 0.155). Algae colonized juveniles when their tissue was damaged and herbivory was excluded (mean ± SE 9.359 ± 3.901). There were differences in coral growth between seasons, being higher in the dry season (Average 0.0029 ± SD 0.0243 cm2/day) than in the wet season (Average 0.0022 ± SD 0.0161 cm2/day). Conclusions: The coral growth depended on the presence of herbivores that regulate the growth, reproduction, and survival of algae; currently, this process is being interrupted as a result of overfishing in the reef ecosystems. However, some algae could be beneficial for juvenile corals when their abundance is large enough to protect them from fish predation and small enough not to significantly reduce their growth. These processes are decisive in these ecosystems, particularly in areas where it is relevant from an ecological, social, cultural and economic point of view, which makes these studies important for the correct implementation of integrated management in reef areas helping recovery, protection, and conservation of the reef promoting the decrease of herbivore fishing.

Molecular characteristics of polysulfated fractions from the green seaweed Caulerpa cupressoides and actions on thrombin generation in vitro

Caulerpa cupressoides produces sulfated polysaccharides (Cc-SPs) with serpin-dependent anticoagulant effect, but their actions on thrombin generation (TG) are unknown. This study aimed to partially characterize Cc-SPs and examine their potential as modulators of TG. Infrared analysis characterized extract containing three ulvan fractions (Cc-SP1, -SP2 and -SP3) separated by DEAEcellulose chromatography, with differences in the relative proportions of sulfate (10.99-18.38%) and total sugars (46.59-51.12%), without presenting proteins. Charge density patterns and nonSPs varying from 8 to > 100 kDa on agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by sequential staining with toluidine blue and stains-all were also confirmed by gel permeation chromatography. The molecular weight of Cc-SP2 was not altered after treatment with 0.4 M HCl up to 5 h. Only Cc-SP2 altered the activated partial thromboplastin time (15 ± 0.3 IU) vs. heparin (193 IU) and abolished at high concentrations (> 4.1 μg) TG by intrinsic pathway in 60-fold diluted human plasma, while at 4.1 μg attenuated TG by 33.87% delaying the lag phase (32 min.) vs. control (28 min.). Cc-SP2 induced concentration-dependent TG in system without cephalin. Heparin abolished TG at 4.15-fold lower amount, but did not stimulate TG. Therefore, Cc-SPs express dual effects on thrombosis in vitro.

Cytotoxic activity of extract and active fraction of Turbinaria decurrens Bory on colon cancer cell line HCT-116 / Actividad citotóxica del extracto y la fracción activa de Turbinaria decurrens Bory en la línea celular de cáncer de colon HCT-116

Turbinaria deccurrens Bory contains bioactive compound that is beneficial for health. Turbinaria deccurrens Bory is one of many species of brown seaweed that grows in Indonesian marine life and has been known to have cytotoxic activity. The aim of this study is to determine fucoxantin content and the cytotoxic activity of extract and fraction T. decurrens on colon cancer cell lines. Cytotoxic assay of ethanolic extract, n-hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanolic fractions against HCT-116 by MTS assay using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Fucoxantin content in extract and fraction were analyzed using Reversed-Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis. Extract and fraction of T. decurrens contain fucoxanthin with the highest content of fucoxanthin was in ethyl acetate fraction. CCK-8 assay showed that extract, n-hexane and ethyl acetate fraction inhibited the growth of HCT-116. Brown seaweed Turbinaria decurrens was potential as an anticolon cancer agent.

Turbinaria deccurrens Bory contiene compuestos bioactivos que son beneficiosos para la salud. Turbinaria deccurrens Bory es una de muchas especies de algas pardas que crecen en aguas marinas de Indonesia y se ha estudiado su actividad citotóxica. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el contenido de fucoxantina y la actividad citotóxica del extracto y la fracción de T. decurrens en líneas celulares de cáncer de colon. Se llevó a cabo un ensayo citotóxico de extracto etanólico, nhexano, acetato de etilo y fracciones etanólicas contra HCT-116 mediante ensayo MTS utilizando Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). El contenido de fucoxantina en el extracto y la fracción se analizaron usando cromatografía líquida de alta resolución de fase reversa (RP-HPLC). El extracto y la fracción de T. decurrens contienen fucoxantina conmayor contenido de fucoxantina en la fracción de acetato de etilo. El ensayo CCK-8 mostró que la fracción de extracto, n-hexano y acetato de etilo inhibía el crecimiento de HCT-116. El alga marrón Turbinaria decurrens es un agente potencial contra el cáncer de colon.

Fibra y capacidad antioxidante de algas comestibles en ratas suficientes o deficientes en vitamina E / Fiber and antioxidant capacity of edible algae in vitamin E sufficient and deficient rats / Fibra e capacidade antioxidante de algas comestíveis em camundongos suficientes e deficientes em vitamina E

Debido a la importancia que han alcanzado las algas en la alimentación de los países occidentales aquí se estudió el potencial de las algas Nori y Wakame como fuentes de fibra y capacidad antioxidante en ratas en crecimiento alimentadas con dietas suficientes o deficientes en vitamina E (vit E) durante 15 días. Hubo 3 grupos de ratas que recibieron dietas: 1. grupo control, 2. grupo Nori y 3 grupo Wakame con vit E y 3 grupos similares sin vit E. En las dietas con vit E, Nori produjo una reducción de crecimiento y las dos algas causaron una acumulación de vit E hepática, una reducción en la vit E plasmática y un aumento en TBARS en plasma e hígado. En contraste, cuando las algas se ofrecieron en dietas exentas de vit E, el grupo Nori recuperó su capacidad de crecer, mantuvo una mayor reserva de vit E en el hígado que el grupo control deficiente en vit E y el consumo de ambas algas resultó en TBARS plasmáticos por debajo de las ratas controles deficientes en vit E, lo que señaló que las algas se comportaron mejor en dietas sin vit E. Adicionalmente, se observó que las algas estimularon la función excretora del intestino sin afectar su capacidad absortiva.

In western countries, edible seaweed consumption has markedly increased in recent years. Accordingly, in this study the antioxidant capacity and fiber value of Nori and Wakame algae were evaluated in growing rats fed with sufficient of deficient vitamin E. There were 3 groups of rats: 1. Control, 2. Nori and 3. Wakame with vitamin E and 3 similar groups without vitamin E. The diet with Nori and sufficient vitamin E caused a reduction in growth and Nori and Wakame were associated with liver vitamin E accumulation, plasma vitamin E reduction and an increase in TBARS in liver and plasma. In contrast, when the same diets were offered without vitamin E, the Nori fed rats recovered their growing capacity, they maintained a higher vitamin E reserve than the control or Wakame fed rats, and the consumption of both algae was associated with lower plasma TBARS than vitamin E deficient rats, indicating that these algae are best accepted when offered without vitamin E. In addition, both algae improved the excretory capacity of the intestine without affecting its absorption function.

Visto que nos países ocidentais revestiu importância o consumo de algas na alimentação, aqui foi estudado o potencial das algas Nori e Wakame como fontes de fibra e capacidade antioxidante em ratos em crescimento, alimentados com dietas suficientes ou deficientes em vitamina E (vit E) durante 15 dias. Houve 3 grupos de ratos que receberam dietas: 1. grupo controle, 2. grupo Nori e 3. grupo Wakame com vit E e 3 grupos similares sem vit E. Nas dietas com vit E, Nori produziu uma redução no crescimento e as duas algas provocaram uma acumulação de vit E hepática, redução da vit E plasmática e aumento em TBARS em plasma e fígado. Em contraste, quando as algas foram oferecidas em dietas sem vitamina E, o grupo Nori recuperou sua capacidade de crescimento, manteve maior reserva de vit E no fígado do que o grupo controle deficiente em vit E e o consumo de ambas as algas resultou em TBARS plasmáticos mais baixos do que nos ratos do grupo controle deficientes em vitamina E, indicando que essas algas são melhor aceitas quando oferecidas sem vit E. E, também, as algas melhoraram a capacidade de excreção do intestino sem afetar sua função de absorção.

Chemical constituents from green alga Ulva pertusa / 中草药

Objective To investigate the chemical constituents from the ethanol extract of Ulva pertusa. Methods The compounds were isolated and purified by chromatography on silica gel, ODS, Diaion HP-20, Sephadex LH-20, and preparative HPLC methods. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectral data. Results Eighteen compounds were isolated and identified as isophitol (1), indole-3-carboxylic acid (2), 1-O-palmitoyl-3-O-(6'-sulfo-α-D-quinovopyranosyl) glycerol (3), (2S)-1-O-palmitoyl-3-O-[α-D- galactopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-D-galactopyranosyl] glycerol (4), 3-methylsulfoxypropionic acid (5), 3-chloropropionic acid (6), tyrosol (7), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (8), 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (9), 6-vinyl hexanolide (10), loliolide (11), annuionone D (12), azelaic acid (13), succinic acid (14), 8-hydroxy-(6E)-octenoic acid (15), 3-ethoxypropionic acid (16), n-butyl β-D-fructopyranoside (17), and n-butyl pyroglutamate (18). Conclusion Compounds 1-16 are isolated from this alga for the first time, and compounds 5, 6, 10, 15, and 16 are obtained from natural products for the first time. Compounds 17 and 18 are artifacts of isolation from β-D-fructopyranoside and pyroglutamic acid.

Mastite bovina por Prototheca zopfii na região oeste do Paraná: Relato de casos / Bovine mastitis by Prototheca zopfii in western Paraná: Case reports / Mastitis bovina por Prototheca zopfii en la región oeste de Paraná: Relato de casos

Relatam-se três casos de mastite clínica em vacas da raça Jersey de uma propriedade localizada na região Oeste do estado do Paraná, refratários ao tratamento com antimicrobianos. Após realização de cultura das amostras de leite, foi identificada Prototheca zopfii, uma alga aclorofilada, unicelular, presente em matéria orgânica e resistente a antimicrobianos. Foi indicado o descarte dos animais positivos e, como medida de profilaxia, a higienização de caixas de abastecimento de água e bebedouros, uma vez que o manejo da ordenha e higienização da ordenhadeira era realizada de maneira adequada na propriedade. De acordo com a literatura consultada, este é o primeiro relato de mastite por Prototheca zopfii na região Oeste do Paraná, salientando a importância da realização da cultura de amostras de leite de vacas portadoras de mastite, especialmente em casos refratários ao tratamento.(AU)

Three cases of clinical mastitis were reported in Jersey cows at a farm located in western Parana, with a history of refractory treatment with antimicrobials. Milk sample cultures presented Prototheca zopfii, an aclorophylated, unicellular algae, present in organic matter and resistant to antimicrobial treatment. The disposal of positive animals was indicated, and the prophylactic measure of cleaning the water storage and drinking containers were encouraged, since the milking and cleaning of the milking machine were properly performed at the farm. According to the literature, this is the first report of mastitis by Prototheca zopfii in western Parana, thus emphasizing the importance of performing cultures to the milk samples of cows presenting mastitis, especially in cases that are refractory to treatment.(AU)

Tres casos de mastitis clínica se ha relatado en vacas de la raza Jersey, de una propiedad ubicada en la región Oeste del Estado de Paraná, resistentes al tratamiento con antimicrobianos. Después de la realización de cultura de las muestras de leche, se identificó Prototheca zopfii, un alga aclorofilada, unicelular, presente en materia orgánica y resistente a antimicrobianos. Se aconsejó el descarte de los animales positivos y, como medida de profilaxis, la higienización de las cajas de abastecimiento de agua y bebederos, una vez que el manejo de ordeña e higienización de la ordeñadera era realizada de forma adecuada en la propiedad. De acuerdo con la literatura consultada, este es el primer relato de mastitis por Prototheca zopfii en la región Oeste de Paraná, resaltando la importancia de realización de cultura de las muestras de leche de vacas portadoras de mastitis, especialmente en casos resistentes al tratamiento.(AU)

Protective effects of ethanolic extract from the red algae Amansia multifida on experimental inflammation, nociception and seizure experimental models / Efeito protetor do extrato etanólico da alga marinha vermelha Amansia multifida em modelos experimentais de inflamação, nocicepção e convulsão

This study aimed to investigate the EEAm effect in mice models of nociception, inflammation and in behavioral tests evaluating the central nervous system. EEAm had inhibitory effects in the following tests: acetic acid-induced writhing (78%); formalin (62% - inflammatory phase); open field (46%). EEAm increased the nociceptive latency (56%) in tail flick test and increased the death-latency by 36% in the pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure model. Moreover, EEAm inhibited paw edema (82%) and peritonitis (45%) induced by carrageenan. In conclusion, EEAm presents antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant effects involving peripheral and central-acting mechanisms in mice.

Neste estudo objetivou-se investigar o efeito do EEAm em modelos de nocicepção e inflamação, e em testes comportamentais que avaliam o sistema nervoso central em camundongos. EEAm exibiu efeitos inibitórios nos testes comportamentais de contorções abdominais induzidas por ácido acético (78%); formalina (62% - fase inflamatória) e campo aberto (46%). EEAm aumentou a latência de nocicepção no teste de retirada da cauda (56%) e a latência de morte 36% no modelo de convulsões induzidas por pentilenetetrazol. Além disso, EEAm inibiu o edema de pata (82%) e a peritonite (45%) induzidos por carragenana. Como conclusão, EEAm apresenta efeitos antinociceptivo, anti-inflamatório e anticonvulsivante em camundongos por mecanismos periféricos e centrais.

Prototecosis cutánea: presentación de un caso con énfasis en la histopatología / Cutaneous protothecosis: report of a case with emphasis on histopathology

La prototecosis es una infección infrecuente causada por algas del género Prototheca. Su diagnóstico se hace mediante estudios microbiológicos o por la identificación del alga en biopsias por su morfología característica. Se presenta el hallazgo histopatológico de prototecosis en una mujer de 72 años con diagnóstico presuntivo de dermatitis actínica crónica; en el estudio anatomatopatológico de una biopsia de piel se observaron estructuras con septos internos típicos de Prototheca. Se hace una revisión de todos los registros de esta enfermedad en Colombia.

Protothecosis is a rare infection caused by algae of the Prototheca genus. Its diagnosis is based on microbiological studies and on the identification in biopsies of the characteristic structures of the algae. We present the histopathological findings of protothecosis in a 72 year-old woman with the presumptive diagnosis of chronic actinic dermatitis. The pathological study of a skin biopsy revealed structures with internal septa typical of Prototheca. A review of all reports of this disease in Colombia is also presented.

Seasonal variation of biotic and abiotic parameters in parallel neotropical fishponds / Variação sazonal dos parâmetros bióticos e abióticos em tanques de piscicultura com disposição paralela de região neotropical

The present study was carried out to evaluate the phytoplankton community and water quality in four parallel fishponds (FP1 to FP4) during one year. Some abiotic parameters of water column and phytoplankton was sampled in four sites, one in each fishpond. Similarity analysis showed that FP2 fishpond was markedly different for the others ponds with regard to phytoplankton community. Conductivity, orthophosphate, temperature, TSS and hardness parameters were significantly different (p<0.05) between fishponds and all limnological parameters were significantly different (p<0.01) among period (months). Organic matter and phosphorus of the sediment were significantly different (p<0.01) only among fishponds. In current study Chlorophyceae and Bacillariophyceae occurred in most months. Cyanobacteria density in April and May was higher in all fishponds, at FP3 represented 71.4% in April and FP1 represented 78.7% in May of total reported, with chlorophyll-a content lower than 41 mg.L−1. The physical and chemical parameters of fishponds water constituted relations between the parameters and algae occurrence. The present study however, indicated that Cyanobacteria was more frequent in the fishponds after the fish grow-out period (April), and the water quality should be monitored more frequently in this period, due to the high total phosphorus, orthophosphate and chlorophyll-a contents.

O presente estudo avaliou durante um ano a comunidade fitoplanctônica e os fatores abióticos da água de quarto tanques de piscicultura (FP1 ao FP4) com disposição paralela. Alguns fatores abióticos da água e do fitoplâncton foram amostrados em quarto pontos, localizados um em cada tanque de piscicultura. Análise de similaridade mostrou que o tanque de piscicultura FP2 foi diferente dos outros tanques em relação a comunidade fitoplanctônica. Condutividade, ortofosfato, temperatura, STS e dureza foram diferentes (p<0,05) entre tanques e todas as variáveis limnológicas variaram entre o período de estudo (p<0,01). Matéria orgânica e fósforo do sedimento variaram (p<0,01) somente entre os tanques. Chlorophyceae e Bacillariophycea estiveram presentes em todos os meses amostrados. Em abril e maio foi observada elevada densidade de Cyanobacteria em todos os tanques sendo que no FP3 representou 71,4% em abril e no FP1 78,7% em maio do total encontrado, com teor de clorofila-a abaixo de 41 mg.L−1. Os parâmetros físico-químicos da água dos tanques de piscicultura apresentaram relação com a ocorrência do fitoplâncton nestes sistemas. Os resultados deste estudo indicaram a maior frequência de Cyanobacteria no período após a engorda de peixes (abril) necessitando maior monitoramento da qualidade da água devido aos altos teores de fósforo total, ortofosfato e clorofila-a observados neste mês (abril).

Anticancer activity of Sargassum wightii Greville on Dalton's ascitic lymphoma / 中国天然药物

AIM@#Sargassum wightii Greville is a marine brown alga belonging to the Sargassaceae family which has about 200 species. The ethanolic extract of the whole dry plant powder contained numerous phytoconstituents, including flavonoids. The study was focused on the anticancer activity of Sargassum wightii in mice.@*METHOD@#The ethanolic extract of Sargassum wightii (EESW) at two dose levels was used to examine the anticancer activity in mice using DAL cell lines to induce cancer. The body weight, viable and non-viable tumor cell count, mean survival time, increase in life span, and hematological parameters were observed for anticancer activity of EESW.@*RESULTS@#The intraperitoneal inoculation of DAL cells in mice significantly increased cancer cell count. The decrease in the cancer cell number observed in the EESW-treated group cancer animals indicates that the test drug has a significant inhibitory effect on the tumor cell proliferation. Treatment with EESW also showed a significant decrease in tumor weight, and hence increased the lifespan of DAL-treated mice. In addition, EESW administration significantly restored the hematological parameters in DAL-treated mice.@*CONCLUSION@#The present study results suggest that administration of extract offers enhanced antioxidant potential. Therefore it can be concluded from this study that EESW possesses anticancer activity.

Cutaneous protothecosis - case report / Prototecose cutanea - relato de caso

Cutaneous protothecosis is a rare infection caused by achlorophyllic algae of the genus Prototheca. The lesions usually occur on exposed areas, related with trauma, in immunocompromised patients. The most common clinical presentation is a vesicobullous and ulcerative lesion with pustules and scabs, simulating bacterial, fungal or herpetic infections or eczema. The diagnosis is determined by agent identification through histopathology, culture and the carbohydrates assimilation test. The finding of morula-like spherules is characteristic of Prototheca sp. Its rarity and non-specific clinical aspect may difficult the disease diagnosis. We report a case of a diabetic patient, in chronic use of systemic corticosteroids, that developed a skin lesion after trauma to the right leg.

A prototecose cutânea é uma infecção rara causada por algas aclorofílicas do gênero Prototheca. Geralmente as lesões ocorrem em áreas expostas, relacionadas à trauma, em indivíduos imunocomprometidos. A apresentação clínica mais comum é uma lesão vesico-bolhosa e ulcerativa com pústulas e crostas, simulando piodermites, infecções fúngicas, infecções herpéticas ou eczemas. O diagnóstico é realizado pela identificação do agente através do exame histopatológico, da cultura e do teste de assimilação dos carboidratos. O achado de esférulas com aspecto de mórula são características da Prototheca sp. A raridade da doença e o aspecto clínico inespecífico dificultam o diagnóstico da doença. Relatamos um caso em paciente diabética, em uso crônico de corticoide sistêmico, que desenvolveu lesão cutânea após trauma na perna direita.

Influence of Diadema antillarum populations (Echinodermata: Diadematidae) on algal community structure in Jardines de la Reina, Cuba

The 1983-1984 mass mortality of Diadema antillarum produced severe damages on Caribbean reefs contributing to substantial changes in community structure that still persist. Despite the importance of Diadema grazing in structuring coral reefs, available information on current abundances and algal-urchin interactions in Cuba is scarce. We analyzed spatial variations in Diadema abundance and its influence on algal community structure in 22 reef sites in Jardines de la Reina, in June/2004 and April/2005. Urchins were counted in five 30x2m transects per site, and algal coverage was estimated in randomly located 0.25m side quadrats (15 per site). Abundances of Diadema were higher at reef crests (0.013-1.553 ind/m²), while reef slope populations showed values up to three orders of magnitude lower and were overgrown by macroalgae (up to 87%, local values). Algal community structure at reef slopes were dominated by macroalgae, especially Dictyota, Lobophora and Halimeda while the most abundant macroalgae at reef crests were Halimeda and Amphiroa. Urchin densities were negatively and positively correlated with mean coverage of macroalgae and crustose coralline algae, respectively, when analyzing data pooled across all sites, but not with data from separate habitats (specially reef crest), suggesting, along with historical fish biomass, that shallow reef community structure is being shaped by the synergistic action of other factors (e.g. fish grazing) rather than the influence of Diadema alone. However, we observed clear signs of Diadema grazing at reef crests and decreased macroalgal cover according to 2001 data, what suggest that grazing intensity at this habitat increased at the same time that Diadema recruitment began to be noticeable. Furthermore, the excessive abundance of macroalgae at reef slopes and the scarcity of crustose coralline algae seems to be due by the almost complete absence of D. antillarum at mid depth reefs, where local densities of this urchin were predominantly low. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (3): 1149-1163. Epub 2011 September 01.

A pesar de la importancia del forrageo de Diadema en la estructuración de los arrecifes de coral, la información disponible sobre la actual abundancia de algas y de las interacciones de erizos en Cuba es escasa. Por lo tanto, se analizan las variaciones espaciales en la abundancia de Diadema antillarum y su influencia sobre las algas en 22 arrecifes en Jardines de la Reina, en junio/2004 y abril/2005. Los erizos se muestrearon en recorridos de 30x2m (5/sitio) y las algas en cuadrículas de 0.25m de lado (15/sitio). Las densidades de Diadema fueron mayores en las crestas arrecifales (0.013-1.553ind/m²) mientras que las pendientes mostraron valores hasta tres ordenes de magnitud menor y presentaron un cubrimiento excesivo de macroalgas (hasta 87%), siendo las más abundantes Dictyota, Lobophora y Halimeda. Las densidades de erizos estuvieron correlacionadas negativa y positivamente con el cubrimiento de macroalgas y algas costrosas, respectivamente, en el análisis global, pero no en hábitats separados (especialmente en crestas), sugiriendo, conjuntamente con la biomasa histórica de peces, que la estructura de las comunidades en las crestas está determinada por la acción sinérgica de otros factores (herbivoría de peces) más que por la influencia de Diadema solo. No obstante, se observaron indicios del forrajeo de Diadema, y el cubrimiento de macroalgas disminuyó desde 2001, lo cual sugiere que la intensidad de la herbivoría aumentó al mismo tiempo que el reclutamiento de Diadema.

Knowledge and use of insecticide treated nets as a malaria preventive tool among pregnant women in a local government area of Lagos state, Nigeria.

Malaria has been described as the foremost public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, Nigeria inclusive. This survey set out to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice on the use of ITNs as a malaria preventive tool among pregnant women and to determine its level of recommendation and proper instructions given by pharmacists. Structured questionnaires were administered to pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at two selected hospitals in Alimosho Local Government Area (ALGA) of Lagos State and also to community pharmacists practicing in the same ALGA. Data was analyzed using Epi Info 2002 and Microsoft Excel. Forty eight community pharmacists and 163 pregnant women participated in the study. About 77 and 91% of pregnant women were aware of ITNs at Igando GH and the private hospital respectively. Only 11.2% and 37.5% actually used it. Majority of the pharmacists (95.8%) recommended the use of ITNs and 95% of them also gave counsel on ITN use while 5% did not. There is a wide difference between the level of awareness and the rate of use of ITNs by pregnant women. More emphasis should be placed on ownership and use of ITNs so that the benefit of its protection can be derived.

Use of alternative media and different types of recipients in a laboratory culture of Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reinsch) Korshikov (Chlorophyceae) / Utilização de meios alternativos e diferentes tipos de recipientes no cultivo de Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reinsch) Korshikov (Chlorophyceae) em laboratório

A laboratory culture of Ankistrodesmus gracilis algae was evaluated by studying the biology of the species and its chemical composition in a traditional medium (CHU12) and in two alternative culture media, NPK (20-5-20) and macrophyte (Eichhornia crassipes) + NPK, in three different types of recipients (fiberglass, carboy and plastic bag). First peak in the growth curve of Ankistrodesmus gracilis occurred on the ninth day in macrophyte + NPK medium (74.16 x 105 cells mL-1) in a fiberglass recipient. However, highest density (p < 0.01) was reported in medium CHU12 (122.87 x 105 cells mL-1) in a plastic bag on the twelfth day. Cell density was over 70 x 105 cells mL-1 starting on the twelfth day. Growth rate of A. gracilis was similar (p > 0.05) in culture media in the three recipients. Protein and fiber were similar (p > 0.05) in the treatments, but lipids were higher (p < 0.05) in NPK. Nitrate, ammonia, total phosphorus and orthophosphate contents were over 1 mg L-1 in NPK (p < 0.01). Results show that alternative media, such as NPK and macrophyte + NPK, are possible for large-scale culture of A. gracilis cultured in three types of recipients. Costs are low, occupying less space when cultured in plastic bags and in the laboratory.

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar os aspectos biológicos e a composição química da alga Ankistrodesmus gracilis em laboratório utilizando um meio tradicional (CHU12) e dois meios alternativos, NPK (20-5-20) e macrófita (Eichhornia crassipes) + NPK em três diferentes tipos de recipientes (cuba de fibra de vidro translúcido, garrafões e saco plástico). O primeiro pico de densidade celular de Ankistrodesmus gracilis ocorreu no nono dia da curva de crescimento em meio macrófita+NPK (74,16 x 105 células mL-1) no recipiente de fibra de vidro, porém a maior densidade (p < 0,01) foi observada no meio CHU12 (122,87 x 105 células mL-1) em saco plástico no décimo segundo dia, a partir do qual a densidade celular permaneceu acima de 70 x 105 células mL-1. A taxa de crescimento de A. gracilis foi similar (p > 0,05) nos três recipientes e meios de cultivo. Os teores de proteína e fibra foram similares (p > 0,05) nos tratamentos utilizados, já os de lipídios foram mais elevados (p < 0,05) no meio NPK. Os teores médios de nitrato, amônia, fósforo total e ortofosfato estiveram acima de 1 mg L-1 no meio NPK (p < 0,01). Os resultados obtidos neste estudo indicam a possibilidade do uso de meios alternativos como o NPK e macrophyte +NPK para o cultivo de A. gracilis em larga escala cultivados nos três tipos de recipientes, porém, em saco plástico o custo é baixo e ocupa menos espaço em cultivo de laboratório.