Secondary protein in the muscle of exercised rats that received creatine supplementation / Proteína secundaria en el músculo de ratones ejercitados que recibieron suplemento de creatina / Proteína secundária no músculo de ratos exercitados que receberam suplemento de creatina

ABSTRACT Introduction: Currently there is a lack of clarity around the use of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy to analyze the effect of creatine (Cr) supplementation on the secondary structures of skeletal muscle tissue protein subjected to exercise. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the spectral characteristics of the tibialis anterior muscle in rats subjected to exercise in a pool and to Cr supplementation. Methods: Experiment 1. First, an experiment was conducted to ensure that FT-IR would be able to detect change in the secondary structures of skeletal muscle tissue protein in the group of sedentary rats (SED) and in the group of rats that received creatine supplementation (CRE). Experiment 2. Next, the effect of physical exercise on the spectral characteristics of muscle tissue, especially when compared to the groups without exercise practice, was examined. Results: It was possible to verify that the peaks centered on 1658 cm-1 (amide I) and 1546 cm-1 (amide II) are characteristic spectra and indicated as markers of protein content. Conclusion: Thus, FT-IR spectroscopy proved to be able to monitor changes in secondary structures of skeletal muscle protein in both animals that received supplements and in those subjected to exercise and both cases reconciled. Furthermore, the FT-IR technique proved to be a viable method for the nondestructive evaluation of skeletal muscle protein structures. Level of evidence II, Investigation of treatment results.

RESUMEN Introducción: Actualmente, no hay claridad en lo que se refiere al uso de la técnica de espectroscopia de Infrarrojo con transformada de Fourier (FT-IR) para análisis del efecto de la suplementación de creatina (Cr) sobre las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético sometido a ejercicio. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar las características espectrales del músculo tibial anterior de ratones sometidos a ejercicio en piscina y a la suplementación con Cr. Métodos: Experimento 1. En primer lugar, fue realizada una experiencia para asegurar que la FT-IR sería capaz de detectar la variación en las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético en el grupo de ratones sedentarios (SED) y el grupo de ratones que sólo recibieron suplemento de creatina (CRE). Experimento 2. A continuación, fue examinado el efecto del ejercicio físico sobre las características espectrales del tejido muscular, especialmente cuando comparado con los grupos sin práctica de ejercicio. Resultados: Fue posible verificar que los picos centrados en 1658 cm−1 (amida I) y 1546 cm−1 (amida II) son espectros característicos e indicados como marcadores del tenor proteico. Conclusión: Siendo así, la técnica de espectroscopia de FT-IR mostró ser capaz de monitorizar las variaciones en las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético, tanto en animales que recibieron suplementos, como en los que fueron sometidos a ejercicio y ambos casos conciliados. Además, la técnica FT-IR probó ser un método viable para la evaluación no destructiva de las estructuras proteicas en el músculo esquelético. Nivel de evidencia II, Investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: Atualmente, não há clareza no que diz respeito ao uso da técnica de espectroscopia de infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FT-IR) para análise do efeito da suplementação de creatina (Cr) sobre as estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético submetido a exercício. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as características espectrais do músculo tibial anterior de ratos submetidos a exercício em piscina e à suplementação com Cr. Métodos: Experimento 1. Em primeiro lugar, foi realizada uma experiência para assegurar que a FT-IR seria capaz de detectar a variação nas estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético no grupo de ratos sedentários (SED) e no grupo de ratos que só receberam suplemento de creatina (CRE). Experimento 2. Em seguida, foi examinado o efeito do exercício físico sobre as características espectrais do tecido muscular, especialmente quando comparado com os grupos sem prática de exercício. Resultados: Foi possível verificar que os picos centrados em 1658 cm−1(amida I) e 1546 cm−1(amida II) são espectros característicos e indicados como marcadores do teor proteico. Conclusão: Assim sendo, a técnica de espectroscopia de FT-IR mostrou ser capaz de monitorar as variações nas estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético tanto em animais que receberam suplementos, quanto nos que foram submetidos a exercício e ambos os casos conciliados. Além disso, a técnica FT-IR provou ser um método viável para a avaliação não destrutiva de estruturas proteicas no músculo esquelético. Nível de evidência II, Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

Variation in the isotopic composition of striped weakfish Cynoscion guatucupa of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean in response to dietary shifts / Variação na composição isotópica do Cynoscion guatucupa no Oceano Atlântico Sul

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the isotopic composition in muscle of striped weakfish Cynoscion guatucupa from Southwest Atlantic Ocean in order to evaluate a possible variation in δ13C and δ15N in response to dietary shifts that occur as animals grow. We also explored for isotopic evidence of differences between sample locations. The results showed an agreement between isotope analysis and previous conventional studies. Differences in the isotope composition between sampling location were not observed. A positive relation exists between isotope values and total body length of the animals. The Cluster analysis defined three groups of size classes, validated by the MDS. Differences in the relative consumption of prey species in each size class were also observed performing isotope mixing models (SIAR). Variation in δ15N among size classes would be associated with the consumption of a different type of prey as animals grow. Small striped weakfish feed on small crustaceans and progressively increase their consumption of fish (anchovy, Engraulis anchoita), increasing by this way their isotope values. On the other hand, differences in δ13C values seemed to be related to age-class specific spatial distribution patterns. Therefore, large and small striped weakfish remain specialized but feeding on different prey at different trophic levels. These results contribute to the study of the diet of striped weakfish, improve the isotopic ecology models and highlight on the importance of accounting for variation in the isotopic composition in response to dietary shifts with the size of one of the most important fishery resources in the region.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a composição isotópica no músculo de Cynoscion guatucupa no Oceano Atlântico Sul Ocidental, a fim de avaliar uma possível variação de δ13C e δ15N como resposta às mudanças ontogenéticas na dieta. Foram também exploradas evidências isotópicas de diferenças entre os locais de amostragem. Os resultados mostraram uma concordância entre a análise de isótopos e os estudos convencionais prévios. Diferenças na composição isotópica entre locais de amostragem não foram observadas. Uma relação positiva existe entre valores isotópicos e comprimento total dos animais. A análise de cluster definiu três grupos de classes de tamanho, validados pelo MDS. Foram também observadas, através de modelos isotópicos mistos (SIAR), diferenças no consumo relativo de espécies de presas para cada classe de tamanho. Variações em δ15N entre as classes de tamanho estariam associadas ao consumo de diferentes tipos de presas ao longo do crescimento dos animais. Indivíduos pequenos alimentam-se de pequenos crustáceos e progressivamente aumentam seu consumo de peixes (Engraulis anchoita), aumentando assim os seus valores isotópicos. Por outro lado, as diferenças nos valores de δ13C parecem estar relacionadas com variações no padrão de distribuição espacial específico de cada classe idade. Desta maneira, tanto C. guatucupa grandes como pequenos permanecem especializados, porém alimentando-se de presas diferentes, em diferentes níveis tróficos e em diferentes áreas. Estes resultados contribuem para o estudo da dieta de C. guatucupa, melhoram os modelos de ecologia isotópica e ressaltam a importância de se considerar a variação na composição isotópica na resposta às mudanças de dieta relacionadas ao tamanho de um dos principais recursos pesqueiros da região.

Protein analysis and heavy metals accumulation in muscles of wild and farmed nile tilapia [oreochromis niloticus]

The present study aimed to assess the levels of some heavy metals [Cu, Fe, Pb, Zn and Cd] in muscles of wild and farmed Oreochromis niloticus as well as to evaluate the human hazard index associated with fish consumption

In addition, total protein, molecular weights and band counts of sarcoplasmic proteins were investigated with sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis [SDS-PAGE] method. The obtained results revealed that the accumulation of Cu has the highest value in farmed Oreochromis niloticus compared to wild Oreochromis niloticus while the highest Fe, Pb, Zn and Cd concentrations were recorded in wild Oreochromis niloticus compared to farmed Oreochromis niloticus

The calculated hazard index [HI] indicated that all metals had low HI except Pb and Cd levels in both wild and farmed fish were higher than their permissible limits for fish as a human food

There was no significant [P> 0.05] difference between wild and farmed Oreochromis niloticus in total protein

Wild fish predominant farmed fish in the number of separated proteins

Wild fish muscle protein showed 12 protein bands, while farmed fish muscle proteins showed 11 protein bands. Also, these bands were differed in quantitative parameters. Wild fish had unique bands [MW. 198.13, 97.92, 56.77 and 29.75] while farmed fish had unique bands [MW. 121.62, 79.05 and 26,16]

The current data found that there are differences in electrophoretic pattern and heavy metals accumulation between wild and farmed Oreochromis niloticus

Assessment of essential elements and chemical contaminants in thirteen fish species from the Bay Aratu, Bahia, Brasil / Avaliação de elementos químicos essenciais e contaminantes em treze espécies de peixes da Baía de Aratu, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract Concentrations of ten elements (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, V and Zn) were determinate in muscle tissues of 13 fish species from Aratu Bay, Bahia, Brazil by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The accuracy and precision of our results were checked by using two certified reference materials: BCR-422 cod muscle and SRM 1566b oyster tissue. The average trace element concentrations in the fish species varied in the following ranges, in μg g–1: 0.03-0.8 for Cr; 2.0-33.7 for Cu, 2.4-135.1 for Fe, 1.6-25.6 for Se; 1.6-35.1 for Sr; and 2.8-40.5 for Zn. The Diaptereus rhombeus (carapeba) specie presented the highest concentrations of Se, Cu and Fe. Chromium and Se were present at levels above the limit of tolerance allowed by the National Agency of Sanitary Vigilance (ANVISA). The results were also evaluated using the multivariate analysis techniques: principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA).

Resumo Foram determinadas as concentrações de dez elementos (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, V and Zn) em tecidos de músculos de treze espécies de peixes da Baía de Aratu, Bahia, Brasil, utilizando a espectrometria de emissão ótica com plasma indutivamente acoplado. A precisão e exatidão dos resultados foram analisadas utilizando dois materiais de referência certificada: BCR-422 cod muscle e o SRM 1566b oyster tissue. A concentração média dos elementos traço nas espécies de peixes variaram nas seguintes faixas, em μg g−1: Cr = 0,03-0,8; Cu = 2,0-33,7, Fe = 2,4-135,1, Se = 1,6-25,6; Sr = 1,6-35,1; Zn = 2.8-40.5. A espécie Diaptereus rhombeus (carapeba) apresentou as maiores concentrações de Se, Cu e Fe. Cromo e Se apresentaram níveis acima do limite de tolerância estabelecido pela Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA). Os resultados ainda foram avaliados usando técnicas de análises multivariadas: análise de componente principal (PCA) e análise de agrupamento hierárquico (HCA).

Contaminação por metais pesados em peixes e água da bacia do rio Cassiporé, Estado do Amapá, Brasil / Heavy metal contamination in fish and water from Cassiporé River basin, State of Amapá, Brazil

A participação dos metais pesados nas reações químicas do metabolismo dos peixes tornou esses elementos um dos principais focos nos estudos de contaminação. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar as concentrações dos metais Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn e Hg no tecido muscular de peixes da bacia do rio Cassiporé (Estado do Amapá) e ambiente, visando avaliar os riscos de contaminação. As concentrações de Cd em Plagioscion squamosissimus (1,061 µg g-1) e Pb em Poptella compressa (4,280 µg g-1) apresentaram valores que ultrapassam os limites estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira. As concentrações de Cr em P. compressa (0,937 ± 0,5 µg g-1), Pimelodella cristata (0,463 ± 0,03 µg g-1) e Cyphocharax gouldingi (0,364 ± 0,12 µg g-1), bem como de Hg em P. squamosissimus (0,670 µg g-1), Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum (0,630 µg g-1), Hoplias malabaricus (0,570 µg g-1 e Serrasalmus rhombeus (0,548 µg g-1) foram acima do limite legal. A coluna d'água apresentou altas concentrações de metais pesados em todos os pontos analisados, mostrando uma contaminação dessa bacia. Portanto, essas elevadas concentrações de metais pesados no ambiente e tecido muscular dos peixes indicam um elevado grau de contaminação na bacia do rio Cassiporé e risco a saúde do homem.

Heavy metals participate in chemical reactions of fish metabolism, which makes these elements a major focus on contamination studies. The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations of heavy metals Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn and Hg in muscle tissue of fish of Cassiporé River Basin (State of Amapá) and environment, aiming at assessing the risk of contamination. The concentrations of Cd in Plagioscion squamosissimus (1.061 µg g-1) and Pb in Poptella compressa (4.280 µg g-1) had values that exceed the boundaries established by Brazilian law. The Cr concentration in P. compressa (0.937 ± 0.5 µg g-1), Pimelodella cristata (0.463 ± 0.03 µg g-1) and Cyphocharax gouldingi (0.364 ± 0.12 µg g-1) and Hg in P. squamosissimus (0.670 µg g-1), Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum (0.630 µg g-1), Hoplias malabaricus (0.570 µg g-1 e Serrasalmus rhombeus (0.548 µg g-1) were above the legal limit. The water column showed high concentrations of heavy metals in all analyzed points, showing a contamination of this river basin. Therefore, the high concentrations of heavy metals in the environment and muscle tissue of fish indicate a high degree of contamination in the Cassiporé river basin and risk to human health.

Elemental composition of muscle tissue of wild animals from central region of Poland

In the paper, the contents of calcium [Ca], magnesium [Mg], zinc [Zn], copper [Cu], iron [Fe], manganese [Mn], chromium [Cr], lead [Pb], cadmium [Cd], aluminium [Al], and nickel [Ni] were determined in the meat of roe deers, wild boars, and hares coming from central region of Poland. Measurements were carried out using atomic absorption spectrometry. The ranges of median values found for the concentration of elements were as follows: 89 - 121 [Ca], 235 - 241 [Mg], 19.2 - 28.6 [Zn], 0.93 - 2.07 [Cu], 26.3 - 39.1 [Fe], 0.10 - 0.38 [Mn], 0.04 - 0.31 [Cr], 0.07 - 0.48 [Pb], 0.004 - 0.010 [Cd], 0.31 - 1.26 [Al], and 0.05 - 0.13 [Ni] ig/g, respectively. We stated that the concentrations of Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, and Mn were comparable to their amounts in meat of farm animals. The smallest amounts of hazardous elements, except for Al, were determined in meat of hares, and the highest ones in roe deer meat. Moreover, a large variability in Cr, Pb, and Ni content was found. Generally, there were no significant correlations between the concentration of elements in the meat of wild animals and their age and weight, but some statistically significant and strong correlations between concentrations of elements were stated. Moreover, significant positive correlations were found to exist for the content of Fe and Mn in muscle tissue and liver of hares

Composición de ácidos grasos (MUFA y CLA) en tejido muscular de bovino relacionado con la presencia del polimorfismo g.878TC en el gen SCD / Fatty acid composition (MUFA and CLA) in bovine muscle tissue related with the presence of the g.878TC SCD gene polymorphism

El tejido muscular de muchos animales domésticos es fuente de proteínas, grasa y minerales para los seres humanos y está compuesto por una serie de estructuras que le otorgan propiedades nutricionales y bioquímicas. En los ultimos años se ha identificado un polimorfismo de único nucleótido (SNP) en el gen SCD (g.878TC), que influye sobre la composición de ácidos grasos en los bovinos. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la presencia del SNP g.878TC en músculo Longissimus dorsi de bovino (Bos taurus) por medio de la técnica PCR-RFLP. Fue utilizada una muestra de 100 novillos de raza Aberdeen Angus criados y sacrificados en la Región de La Araucanía (Chile). La frecuencia genotípica del polimorfismo fue de: 0,33 para TT, 0,43 para TC y 0,24 para el genotipo CC. La frecuencia alélica fue de 0,54 para el alelo T y 0,63 para el alelo C. De acuerdo a la composición de ácidos grasos, se determinó que existe una relación positiva entre el genotipo CC y el contenido de ácidos grasos MUFA y CLA presentes en el músculo Longissimus dorsi de novillos Angus. Por lo tanto, el SNP g.878TC podría ser considerado como un marcador genético para la selección de animales Aberdeen Angus, con una composición de ácidos grasos más saludable...

The muscle tissue of many domestic animals is a source of protein, fat and minerals to humans and consists of a series of structures that give nutritional and biochemical properties. In recent years it has identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SCD gene (g.878TC), which influences the fatty acid composition in cattle. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of SNP g.878TC in Longissimus dorsi bovine (Bos taurus) using the PCR-RFLP. It was used a sample of 100 Aberdeen Angus steers raised and slaughtered in the region of Araucania (Chile). Polymorphism genotype frequency were: 0.33 for TT, 043 for CT and 0.24 for the CC genotype. The allelic frequency was 0.54 for the T allele and 0.63 for allele C. According to the fatty acid composition was determined that a positive relationship between genotype CC and the content of MUFA and CLA fatty acids present in the Longissimus dorsi muscle of Angus steers. Therefore, the SNP g.878TC could be considered as a genetic marker for selection of animals Aberdeen Angus, with a fatty acid composition more healthy...

Energy metabolism and fasting in male and female insectivorous bats Molossus molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae) / Metabolismo energético e resposta ao jejum em morcegos insetívoros Molossus molossus (Chirpotera: Molossidae)

Metabolic adaptations induced by 24 and 48 hours of fasting were investigated in male and female insectivorous bats (Molossus molossus Pallas, 1766). For this purpose, plasma glucose, non esterified fatty acids (NEFA), glycogen, protein and lipids concentrations in liver and muscles were obtained. Data presented here demonstrate that fed bats showed plasma glucose levels similar to those reported for other mammal species. In response to fasting, glycemia was decreased only in 48 hours fasted females. Plasma NEFA levels were similar in both sexes, and did not exhibit any changes during fasting. Considering the data from energy reserve variations, fed females presented an increased content of liver glycogen as well as higher breast muscle protein and limbs lipids concentrations, compared to fed males. In response to fasting, liver and muscle glycogen levels remained unchanged. Considering protein and lipid reserves, only females showed decreased values following fasting, as seen in breast, limbs and carcass lipids and breast muscle protein reserves, but still fail to keep glucose homeostasis after 48 hours without food. Taken together, our data suggest that the energy metabolism of insectivorous bats may vary according to sexual differences, a pattern that might be associated to different reproduction investments and costs between genders.

As adaptações metabólicas induzidas pelo jejum foram investigadas em morcegos insetívoros machos e fêmeas (Molossus molossus Pallas, 1766) alimentados e submetidos ao jejum por 24 e 48 horas. Para este propósito, análises plasmáticas de glucose, ácidos graxos livres, glicogênio, proteína e lipídios do fígado e músculos foram analisados. Os dados obtidos demonstraram que o nível de glicose plasmática em morcegos alimentados foi similar ao apresentado por outras espécies de mamíferos. No entanto, em resposta ao jejum, a glicemia de fêmeas diminuiu significativamente após 48 horas, enquanto os níveis circulantes de machos permaneceram constantes. Os níveis de ácidos graxos não esterificados no plasma foram similares em ambos os sexos, e não houve mudança durante o jejum. Em relação às reservas energéticas, fêmeas alimentadas apresentaram maior teor de glicogênio no fígado, de proteína armazenada no músculo peitoral e lipídios nos músculos dos membros anteriores e posteriores, em comparação aos machos alimentados. Em resposta ao jejum, somente as fêmeas mostraram diminuição de algumas reservas energéticas, como a reserva lipídica dos músculos dos membros anteriores e posteriores, da carcaça e da reserva proteica do músculo peitoral. Apesar desta mobilização, as fêmeas, diferentemente dos machos, demonstraram uma incapacidade de manter a homeostase da glicose após 48 horas sem o alimento. Nossos dados sugerem que o metabolismo energético de morcegos insetívoros varia de acordo com o sexo, sendo que o padrão metabólico pode estar associado a diferenças de custo energético no investimento reprodutivo entre machos e fêmeas.

Bromophenol concentrations in fish from Salvador, BA, Brazil

The main objective of this work is to evaluate the occurrence of bromophenols (2bromophenol, 4bromophenol, 2,4dibromophenol, 2,6dibromophenol and 2,4,6tribromophenol), in the flesh and guts in two species of the LutjanidaeFamily: Lutjanus synagris and Ocyurus chrysurus. The bromophenols were extracted by steam distillation with pentaneether (7:3 v/v), identified by reverse phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLCUV), and quantified bythe externalstandard method. Total bromophenol concentrations were similar in the muscle of both species, rangingfrom 36 ng g¹ to 349 ng g¹. The total bromophenol concentrations in stomach (ranging from 12 ng g¹ to 586 ng g¹)were slightly higher than in muscle. The presence of bromophenol in the muscles of the species under study may occuras a result of their diet. The results of this work are therefore expected to contribute toward a better understanding ofthe path of bromophenol absorption from the fish's stomach to the rest of its body.

O principal objetivo do presente trabalho foi o estudo de bromofenóis (2bromofenol, 4bromofenol, 2,4dibromofenol,2,6dibromofenol and 2,4,6tribromofenol), no músculo e estômago de duas espécies de peixes da Familia Lutjanidae: Lutjanus synagris e Ocyurus chrysurus. Os bromofenóis foramextraídos através de destilação por arraste a vapor com pentanoéter (7:3 v/v), analisados por Cromatografia Líquida de AltaEficiência e quantificados por padronização externa. As concentrações totais de bromofenóis no músculo de ambas as espécies foram similares e estiveram na faixa de 36 ng g¹ a349 ng g¹. As concentrações totais de bromofenóis no estômago (na faixa de 12 ng g¹ a 586 ng g¹) foram mais altas queno músculo. A presença de bromofenóis no músculo das espécies estudadas pode ter origem na dieta. Os resultados destetrabalho contribuirão para o melhor entendimento das rotas deabsorção de bromofenóis nos peixes.

Organochlorine pesticides in lacustrine sediments and tilapias of Metztitlan, Hidalgo, Mexico

The organochlorine pesticides (OP) are very stable molecules, due to this stability; they are very resistant in the environment and highly related to fat tissues with a wide diffusion property and an average time life higher then 10 years. We studied sediments (November 2001, April and June 2002) and organisms collected in April and July (2002) from the lacustric zone of Metzitlán, Hidalgo, Mexico. The analysis was performed according to UNEP/IAEA (1982) (sediments) and UNEP/FAO/IOC/IAEA (1986) (organisms) methods. Three chemical families of organochlorine pesticides were identified and analyzed to determine posible toxicological risk. The principal organochlorine compounds found in sediments were g-HCH, d-HCH, p,p’-DDT and the endosulfan sulfate; these xenobiotics come from agriculture lands near the river and lake, used intensively, and most probably carried by the rain and rain flows into the main water body. In the tilapias tissue, p,p’-DDD y d-HCH were detected. The average concentrations of organochlorine pesticides in sediments were within the internacional limits for freshwater benthonic fauna, although lindane (g-HCH) was near the limit. The fish were above the criteria established in the local legislation (NOM-027-SSA1-1993 y NOM-028-SSA1-1993). Rev. Biol. Trop. 56 (3): 1381-1390. Epub 2008 September 30.

El presente trabajo se llevó a cabo en la cuenca lacustre de Metztitlán, Hgo. Se realizaron tres colectas de sedimentos recientes en noviembre (2001), abril y julio (2002) y dos colectas para organismos en abril y julio (2002). Los análisis se hicieron siguiendo la metodología para sedimentos propuesta por UNEP/IAEA (1982) y para tejido de organismos por UNEP/FAO/IOC/IAEA (1986). Se identificaron y cuantificaron tres familias químicas de plaguicidas organoclorados, para determinar el posible riesgo toxicológico de los sedimentos y de organismos en capturas comerciales. Los principales compuestos clorados en sedimentos fueron el g-HCH, d-HCH, p,p’-DDT y el sulfato de endosulfán; estos xenobióticos provienen de las zonas de cultivos aledañas al río y al lago, con un uso intensivo, probablemente transportados por lluvias y descargas fluviales hacia el cuerpo lacustre y en el tejido de organismos se detectaron principalmente el p,p’-DDD y d-HCH. Las concentraciones promedio de plaguicidas clorados en sedimentos no rebasaron los límites establecidos en los criterios de calidad ambiental internacionales para provocar efectos nocivos en la biota bentónica de los sistemas dulceacuícolas, aunque de manera puntual el lindano (g-HCH) registró niveles cercanos a dichos límites. Las tilapias rebasaron los criterios existentes en las Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (NOM-027-SSA1-1993 y NOM-028SSA1-1993).

Total-Hg and organic-Hg in Cephalopholis fulva (Linnaeus, 1758) from inshore and offshore waters of NE Brazil

To investigate whether source proximity or bioavailability is the major factor controlling both Hg concentration and Hg speciation in marine fishes, total- and organic-Hg content in muscle and liver tissues from different populations of Cephalopholis fulva (piraúna) from inshore and offshore waters of the Brazilian northeastern coast were analyzed. Average total-Hg in muscle (104 ng.g-1 w.w.) and liver (2,865 ng.g-1 w.w.) tissues, as well as organic-Hg concentrations in muscle (169 ng.g-1 w.w.) and liver (1,038 ng.g-1 w.w.), were much higher in the offshore population of C. fulva than in the inshore ones. In the inshore population total-Hg and organic-Hg average concentrations in muscle tissue were similar and reached only 49 ng.g-1 w.w., while in liver they reached 412 ng.g-1 w.w. for total-Hg and 180 ng.g-1 w.w., for organic-Hg. Concentrations of both Hg species in the two populations were higher in liver than in muscle. The average percentage contribution of organic-Hg to the total Hg content was higher in muscle (98-100 percent) than in liver (42-53 percent), but similar between the two populations. Total-Hg and organic-Hg concentrations in muscle and liver from the offshore population showed significant (P < 0.05) positive correlation with fish length. However, in the inshore population only the total-Hg and organic-Hg in muscle tissues correlate significantly with fish size. Although the coastal environments are enriched in total Hg relative to open waters, the significant higher Hg concentrations in the offshore population of C. fulva and the significant correlation found between organic-Hg in liver with fish size suggest higher bioavailability of Hg in offshore waters relative to inshore ones.

As concentrações de Hg-total e Hg-orgânico foram determinadas em diferentes populações de Cephalopholis fulva (piraúna) capturadas em águas costeiras e em bancos oceânicos do litoral nordeste do Brasil. A comparação entre as duas populações permitiu investigar o efeito da proximidade de fontes sobre as concentrações, e a especiação de Hg em músculo e fígado desta espécie. As concentrações médias de Hg-total em músculo (104 ng.g-1 w.w.) e fígado (2,865 ng.g-1 w.w.), assim como as concentrações de Hg-orgânico em músculo (169 ng.g-1 w.w.) e fígado (1,038 ng.g¹ w.w.) foram muito maiores na população capturada nos bancos oceânicos do que na população costeira. Nesta, as concentrações médias de Hg-total e Hg-orgânico na musculatura de C. fulva foram similares e baixas (49 ng.g-1 w.w.), enquanto que atingiram 412 ng.g-1 w.w. de Hg-total e 180 ng.g-1 w.w. de Hg-orgânico no fígado destes animais. As concentrações das duas espécies de Hg foram significativamente maiores no fígado do que na musculatura. A contribuição percentual média de Hg-orgânico para a concentração total de Hg nos peixes foi maior para músculo (98-100 por cento) que para fígado (42-53 por cento), mas semelhante entre as duas populações. As concentrações de Hg-total e Hg-orgânico na musculatura e no fígado de C. fulva mostraram-se positivamente correlacionadas com o tamanho do animal (P < 0,05). Entretanto, na população costeira somente as concentrações destas espécies de Hg na musculatura apresentaram correlações significativas com o tamanho do animal. Embora o ambiente costeiro seja relativamente enriquecido em Hg, em relação aos bancos oceânicos, as maiores concentrações de Hg foram verificadas na população oceânica de C. fulva. A correlação significativa entre Hg-orgânico no fígado e tamanho do animal no fígado sugerem uma maior biodisponibilidade do Hg em águas oceânicas quando comparada às águas costeiras.

Comparison between biochemical responses of the teleost pacu and its hybrid Tambacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus xColossoma macropomum) to short term nitrite exposure

Aquatic environmental factors are very changeable in short periods. Among these factors are pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, ammonia and ions. Nitrite, as one ion naturally present in aquatic systems, deserves particular consideration as it is highly toxic for many species. Among fish, nitrite may have harmful effects, such as methemoglobin (MtHb) formation, disruption to the gill and hepatic structure, which could result in hemolytic anemia and cell hypoxia by reducing the functional hemoglobin content. In this work, we compared hematological and metabolical responses of pacu and its hybrid tambacu exposed to 20 ppm of environmental nitrite. It was observed that the MtHb content was less than 18 percent in tambacu while pacu reached nearly 8 percent. These data reflect specific differences in nitrite uptake by the gill. The hematocrit of both fish was distinct; pacu did not have a typical response of poisoning by nitrite. This fact shows less skill of the hybrid to cope with environmental nitrite. Incipient hemolytic anemia was observed in pacu and both species presented a neoglycogenic profile. The glucose-provider character of the liver was more evident in tambacu. The white muscle of both species presented distinct metabolic behavior. While in pacu the white muscle was predominantly oxidative, in tambaqui the lactic fermentation was the most important metabolic profile. Metabolic and hematological observations in both species show that they present distinct metabolical strategies to cope with toxic effects of nitrite and there is no evidence that the hybrid is more resistant to nitrite.

Os fatores ambientais nos meios aquáticos são muito flutuantes em curtos intervalos de tempo. Valores de pH, temperatura, oxigênio dissolvido, amônia e íons podem estar freqüentemente variando. Entre esses íons, o nitrito merece especial atenção por ser altamente tóxico para muitas espécies. Entre os peixes, o nitrito pode apresentar efeitos danosos como a formação de metahemoglobina (MtHB), lesão às estruturas branquiais e hepática, podendo levar a quadros de anemia hemolítica e hipóxia celular pela redução do teor de hemoglobina funcional. Neste trabalho, foram comparadas as respostas hematológicas e metabólicas do pacu e de seu híbrido tambacu expostos a 20 ppm de nitrito ambiental, e verificou-se que o teor de MtHb no tambacu foi menor que 18 por cento, enquanto no pacu atingiu valores de 8 por cento. Esses valores refletem diferenças específicas na captação de nitrito pelas brânquias. O hematócrito de ambas as espécies foi diferente; o pacu não apresentou uma resposta típica à intoxicação pelo nitrito. Este fato revelou uma diminuição na capacidade do híbrido em resistir ao nitrito ambiental. Observou-se no pacu um princípio de anemia hemolítica. As duas espécies mostraram um perfil bioquímico neoglicogênico. O papel glicemiante do fígado foi mais evidente no tambacu. O músculo branco de ambas as espécies mostrou um comportamento metabólico distinto. Enquanto o músculo do pacu foi predominantemente oxidativo, o músculo branco do tambaqui exposto ao nitrito realizou fermentação láctica. As observações metabólicas e hematológicas em ambas as espécies indicam que estas apresentam estratégias metabólicas diferentes para enfrentar os efeitos tóxicos do nitrito ambiental, não sendo evidenciada qualquer vantagem do híbrido neste particular.

Composição química de diferentes fontes de fósforo e deposição de metais pesados em tecidos de suínos / Chemical composition of different phosphorus sources and heavy metal deposition in tissues of swines

Foram utilizados 112 leitões com peso inicial de 28,68kg, distribuídos em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 8 2 (oito tratamentos x dois sexos), sete repetições e dois animais por baia. As dietas foram formuladas com base no fósforo total, sendo estas à base de milho e de farelo de soja. O fósforo foi suplementado utilizando-se os fosfatos: bicálcico (FBC); monobicálcico (MBC); supertriplo (ST); supersimples (SS); rocha Catalão (ROCHA); mistura de fontes (MIST) e ácido fosfórico (AcF); e dieta-controle, sem o fósforo suplementar (CONT). Avaliou-se previamente a composição química de amostras de fontes de fósforo disponíveis no mercado. Os fosfatos MBC, FBC e AcF apresentaram baixo nível de contaminação por metais pesados. Observou-se variação no teor de metais pesados entre as marcas comerciais de supertriplo. O consumo do fosfato resultou em acúmulo de cobre nos músculos. A dieta-controle provocou acúmulo de chumbo e zinco no fígado, e a mistura de fontes e supertriplo ocasionou acúmulo de cádmio no fígado. A utilização de fontes alternativas de fósforo menos elaboradas influenciou a deposição de minerais no fígado e nos músculos dos suínos.

Toxic and sub-lethal effects of oleandrin on biochemical parameters of fresh water air breathing murrel, Channa punctatus (Bloch.).

Active compound oleandrin extracted from Nerium indicum (Lal Kaner) leaf has potent piscicidal activity. The piscicidal activity of oleandrin on freshwater fish C. punctatus was both time and dose dependent. Exposure to sub-lethal doses of oleandrin for 24hr and 96hr to fish caused significant alteration in the level of total protein, total free amino acid, nucleic acid, glycogen, pyruvate, lactate and enzyme protease, phosphatases, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and acetylcholinesterase activity in liver and muscle tissues. The alterations in all the above biochemical parameters were also significantly time and dose dependent. The results show a significant recovery in all the above biochemical parameters, in both liver and muscle tissues of fish after the 7th day of the withdrawal of treatment. Toxicity persistence test of oleandrin on juvenile Labeo rohita shows that fish seed of common culturing carp can be released into rearing ponds after three days of oleandrin treatment. It supports the view that the oleandrin is safer and may be useful substitute of other piscicides for removing the unwanted freshwater fishes from aquaculture ponds.

Efecto de tratamientos térmicos sobre las características químicas de carne de jaiba mora (Homalaspis plana) / Effect of thermal treatments on the chemical characteristics of mora crab meat (Homalaspis plana)

Marine species muscles present non-proteins nitrogenated compounds, used as quality index. They are total volatile basis (NBVT), trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) and trimethylamine (TMA). pH is considered too as a quality index. The aim of this work was to evaluate these parameters in a fresh and canned marine product from the V region, corresponding to mora crab (Homalaspis plana). Fresh pincer meat from mora crab was extracted and kept in ice until theits analysis and thermal process of the canned product. A 3(2) statistical design was applied, considering two variables with 3 levels: 15, 30 y 45 minutes time levels: 80 degrees, 100 degrees y 121 degrees C temperature levels. Nine conditions of time-temperature were obtained. The thermal treatment caused an increase in pH and BVT. The TMA was increased since reduction of TMAO.

Determinação de vitamina A em pescado: adaptação de metodologia / Vitamin A determination in fish: methodology adaptation

O objetivo deste trabalho foi extrair e determinar a vitamina A em músculo de pescado através de um método simples e confiável. A metodologia adaptada consistiu em determinar espectrofotometricamente palmitato de retinila extraído de lipídios de músculo de pescado pelo método de Bligh e Dyer (1959). No extrato lipídico aplicou-se uma técnica de limpeza empregando cromatografia de partição em minicoluna de alumina neutra, para separar a vitamina sem o emprego da saponificação, seguida de quantificação espectrofotométrica a 325 nm pela técnica de adições sucessivas. Para avaliação do potencial do método foram avaliados os coeficientes de variação (4 a 7 por cento) e a recuperação média (90,7 por cento). Estes dados de recuperação são promissores quando comparados a valores obtidos quando se empregou o método colorimétrico de Carr Price às amostras, contendo concentrações conhecidas de padrão, eliminando interferentes pelo método oficial (57 por cento) e pelo proposto (75 por cento). O método adaptado foi aplicado em amostra in natura, industrializada (enlatada) e processada termicamente (assada), mantendo suas características de repetibilidade e recuperação, a exceção de quando aplicado às amostras de pescado enlatado. A aplicação do método a amostras in natura de enchova (Pomatonus saltatrix) e de tainha (Mugil brasiliensis), porção comestível, resultou em níveis de 303 ER/100g (CV=5 por cento) e 214 ER/100G (CV=7 por cento) de vitamina A . Em enchova assada foi encontrado 255 ER/100(CV=4 por cento) de vitamina A

Determination of some heavy metal residues in salted and smoked fishes

Fish contamination with heavy metals and its relationship to public health have a considerable concern in the last few years, so the concentrations of some heavy metals in salted and smoked fishes were determined. A total of 60 ready to eat samples, 30 each of salted sardine and smoked herring samples were randomly purchased from different shops at Alexandria Governorate - Egypt, and analysed for their flesh content of lead [Pb], cadmium [Cd], mercury [Hg] and copper [Cu] by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer [A.A.S.]. Results revealed that the mean values +/- S.E. of Pb, Cd, Hg and Cu residues in fish flesh were 0.275 +/- 0.044; 0.081 +/- 0.003; 0.222 +/- 0.026 and 6:992 +/- 0.472 p.p.m [wet weight], respectively in salted sardine and 0.145 +/- 0.017; 0.070 +/- 1003; 0.158 +/- 0.018 and 7.877 +/- 0.484 p.p.m [wet weight], respectively in smoked herring fishes. The present results were evaluated according to the permissible limits of FAO/WHO [1992] and E.S.S. No. 2360 issued by Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality Control [E.O.S.Q.C.] [1993] and also compared with the limits of some other countries. The preventive measures which lead to have safe salted and smoked fishes fit for human consumption were discussed. Also, careful periodical analysis of fresh, salted and smoked fishes should be performed to evaluate their load of heavy metals to avoid their hazards to human

The importance of glucose for the freezing tolerence/intolerence of the anuran amphibians Rana catesbeiana and Bufo paracnemis

Several species of terrestrially hibernating frogs, turtles and inserts have developed mechanisms, such as increased plasma glucose, anti-freeze proteins and antioxidant enzymes that resist to freezing, for survival at subzero temperatures. In the present study, we assessed the importance of glucose to cryoresistance of two anuran amphibians: the frog Rana catesbeiana and the toad Bufo paracnemis. Both animals were exposed to -2 degrees Celsius for measurements of plasma glucose levels, liver and muscle glycogen content, haematocrit and red blood cell volume. Frogs survived cold exposure but toads did not. Blood glucose concentration increased from 40.35 + 7.25 to 131.87 + 20.72 mg/dl (P < 0.01) when the frogs were transferred from 20 to -2 degrees Celsius. Glucose accumulation in response to cold exposition in the frogs was accompanied by a decrease (P < 0.05) in liver glycogen content from 3.94 + 0.42 to 1.33 + 0.36 mg/100 mg tissue, indicating that liver carbohydrate reserves were probably the primary carbon source of glucose synthesis whereas muscle carbohydrate seems unimportant. In the toads, the cold-induced hyperglycaemia was less (P < 0.05) pronounced (from 27.25 + 1.14 to 73.72 + 13.50 mg/dl) and no significant change could be measured in liver or muscle glycogen. Cold exposition had no effect on the haematocrit of the frogs but significantly reduced (P < 0.01) the haematocrit of toads from 20.0 + 2.1 per cent to 5.8 + 1.7 per cent due to a decreased red blood cell volume (from 1532 + 63 70 728 + 87 mm3). When toads were injected with glucose, blood glucose increased to levels similar to those of frogs and haematocrit did not change, but this failed to make them cryoresistent. In conclusion, the lack of cold-induced glucose catabolism may not be the only mechanism responsible for the freeze intolerance of Bufo paracnemis, a freeze-intolerant species.

Chemical, sensory and ultrastructural characteristics of buffalo veal

Longissimus dorsi Ld muscle at the level of 11th to 13th rib was obtained from five buffalo calves aged two months. The chemical analysis revealed that the mean moisture, fat, total pigments and myoglobin contents were 77.1%, 1.39%, 1.25 and 0.75 mg/g, respectively. The mineral concentrations [mg/ 100g] were 3.93, 0.82, 1.77, 23.47, 232.97, 54.7 and 347.8 for calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, sodium and potassium, respectively. Cooked post-rigor buffalo veal had higher tenderness score than the cooked pre-rigor ones which may be due to the combined effects of heat and developed acidity. It could also be explained by SEM, where post-rigor samples showed severe alterations in both connective tissue and myofibers. The total pigments exhibited the most pronounced correlation with veal tenderness, whereas meat mineral contents were poor predictor of veal tenderness

Territorial aggression, body weight, carbohydrate metabolism and testosterone levels of wild rats maintained in laboratory colonies

Aggressive territorial behavior was studied in 15 colonies of wil (Rattus norvegicus), each consisting of 2 males and 1 female. One of the males attacked an intruder rat more frequently and had a higher body weight than the less aggressive one. In another experiment, male and female rats were raised in colonies from weaning to adulthood. Animals were weighed every 7 days until 90 days of age when plasma testosterone was measured in males, and plasma glucose, hepatic and muscle glycogen were measured in both males and females. The heavier (and thus possibly dominant) males in the colonies of 3 males and 1 female also had a bigher body weight than males raised with females, but without any male partner. In this long-term social relationship there were no significant differences in carbohydrate metabolism among the animals.The differential growth rate among males was established around the period of sexual maturity. Moreover, when adult, heavier males had higher plasma testosterone levels compared to the other members of the colony and also to mates that had no other competitive male partner. This higher androgenic hormone level may be one of the causal factors involved in the weight increase of the dominant male in the colony.