Standardization of experimental model regarding star fruit intoxication in Wistar rats suffering with nephropathy

ABSTRACT Purpose To present a model to reproduce the clinical condition, in order to better understand the pathophysiology of neurological impairment related to intoxication. Methods Twenty-five Wistar rats were used and divided into five groups: Shaw group (WHI), water gavage group (WGV), star fruit gavage group (SGV), nephropathic group with water gavage (NPW), nephropathic group with star fruit gavage (NPS).Nephropathic groups were submitted to surgery, developing nephropathy. After surgery, they received preestablished gavage with star fruit juice or water. The electroencephalographic records were evaluated in the experimental nephropathic group that received gavage of star fruit juice. Results To assess the induction of neurotoxicity using electroencephalographic data, the NPS group demonstrated the presence of epileptic seizures associated with star fruit intoxication. Conclusions The experimental model herein presented was adequate to reproduce the clinical condition experienced by nephropathic patients who ingest star fruit juice, establishing, thus, an experimental model utterly important for the study of the neurological toxicity process.

Averrhoa Carambola L. Roots DMDD alleviates myocardial injury in diabetes mellitus mice by regulating ROS-mediated autophagy pathway / 中国药理学通报

Aim To evaluate the protective effect of Averrhoa Carambola L. Roots DMDD alleviating myocardial injury in diabetes mellitus (DM) mice and its mechanism. Methods SD mice were given high-glucose-high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin to induce DM model, and were administered with DMDD. The fasting blood glucose (FBG) was recorded. The left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), maximum upstroke velocity of left ventricular pressure (+ dp/dt

C-Fos expression in epileptogenic areas of nephropathic rats undergoing star fruit poisoning

Abstract Purpose Studies have demonstrated that star fruit consumption by nephropathic patients triggers severe neurotoxic effects that can lead to convulsions or even death. Brain areas likely susceptible to star fruit poisoning have not been investigated. The objective of the present study was to map possible epileptogenic areas susceptible to star fruit intoxication in nephropathic rats. Methods The study analyzed 25 rats (5 groups). Rats in the experimental group underwent bilateral ureteral obstruction surgery and orogastric gavages with star fruit juice. An electroencephalogram was used to confirm convulsive seizures. Urea and creatinine levels were used to confirm the uremia model. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to map cells with c-Fos protein (c-Fos+ cells) to identify brain areas with increased neuronal activity. Control groups included non-nephropathic and nephropathic rats that did not receive star fruit. Results A statistically significant increase (p<0.01) in c-Fos+ cells was noted in nephropathic animals receiving star fruit juice compared to control groups, in brain areas commonly related to epileptogenic neural circuits including the hippocampus, amygdala, rhinal cortex, anterior cingulate area, piriform area, and medial dorsal thalamus. Conclusion These data corroborate the neurotoxic capacity of star fruit in nephropathic patients.

Refrigeration and modified atmosphere to the conservation of 'Malasia' Star fruit / Refrigeração e atmosfera modificada na conservação da carambola 'Malasia'

ABSTRACT: Despite the fact that cold storage and modified atmosphere techniques have already been studied for fresh cut Star fruit, little has been done considering the whole fruit. Besides that, each cultivar has its peculiarities, so the efficiency of combined postharvest treatments should be studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), 8.5 µm thick and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), 33 µm thick associated with cold storage (10 ± 1 °C and 5 ± 1 °C / 85 ± 5% RH) on the conservation of 'Malasia' Star fruit. Storage at 25 oC maintained Star fruit overall quality, regardless of the film type, up to four days. The weight loss was higher in fruit packed with PVC, but this fact was not noticed by the sensory analysis. The storage in 5 and 10 oC did not caused chilling injury but fruit presented retention of yellow color development and firmness reduction; these aspects were positively assessed by the sensory analysis. The film type did not influence the conservation of the fruit. The storage at 5 and 10 °C, regardless of the package film, prolonged 'Malasia' star fruit shelf life up to 16 days, followed by two days at 25 °C.

RESUMO: Apesar das técnicas de armazenamento refrigerado e atmosfera modificada já terem sido estudadas para carambolas processadas, pouco foi feito considerando a fruta inteira. Além disso, cada cultivar possui peculiaridades, dessa forma a eficiência dos tratamentos pós-colheita combinados deve ser estudada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do cloreto de polivinila (PVC), 8,5 µm de espessura e polietileno de baixa densidade (PEBD), 33 µm de espessura associados ao armazenamento refrigerado (10 ± 1 °C e 5 ± 1 °C / 85 ± 5% de UR) na conservação da carambola Malasia. O armazenamento a 25 °C manteve a qualidade da carambola, independentemente do tipo de filme, até quatro dias. A perda de massa foi maior nos frutos embalados em PVC, mas esta não foi percebida pela análise sensorial. As temperaturas de armazenamento de 5 e 10 °C não causaram dano de frio, mas os frutos apresentaram retenção no desenvolvimento da coloração amarela e na redução da firmeza; esses aspectos foram avaliados positivamente na análise sensorial. O tipo de filme não influenciou a conservação do fruto. O armazenamento a 5 e 10 °C, independente do filme da embalagem, prolongou a vida útil da carambola 'Malasia' até 16 dias, seguido por dois dias a 25 °C.

Evaluation of Fibrinolytic Efficacy of Averrhoa Bilimbi Linn. by Using Euglobulin Lysis Time Method

Background: An impaired fibrinolytic function had been reported in subjects suffering from venous thrombosis. The euglobulin clot lysis time is a test that reflects the overall fibrinolytic activity of plasma. Objective: To evaluate the fibrinolytic efficacy of ethanolic extract of Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. leaves by using Euglobulin lysis time method. Methods: Rats were divided into 3 groups. Each group was containing 6 rats. Group I: received vehicle (control) 0.9% saline solution; Group II: received 25 mg/kg ethanolic extract leaves of Averrhoa bilimbi Linn; Group III: received 50 mg/kg ethanolic extract leaves of Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. Blood (1.8 ml) was removed with a plastic syringe containing 0.2 ml 3.8% sodium citrate solution. The time interval between the addition of thrombin and the complete lysis of the clots was measured. The lysis time (min) was determined. Conclusion: We observed ethanolic extract of Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. leaves may increase the activators of the fibrinolysis. Further investigation is warranted.

Protective effect of extract of averrhoa carambola l. root on CC14-induced acute liver injury in mice / 中国药理学通报

Aim To investigate the effect of extract of Averrhoa carambola L. root (EACR) on carbon tetra-chloride (CCl4) induced acute hepatic injury in mice. Methods Both NS and the treatment protocol were administered via intragastric gavage (i. g. ) for seven days. Each group of mice were intraperitineally injected with 0. 15% CCl4 to establish an acute liver injury model except for the normal group. The levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), interleukin-1 (IL-1 ) , interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the serum and the superoxide dismutase (SOD) , nialondialehyde ( MDA ) , glutathione ( GSH ) , and glutathione peroxidase ( GSH-Px ) in the liver tissues were measured. The protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), nuclear factor-kappa B ( NF- kB) , caspase-3 were measured by western blot. The histopathological changes were detected by HE staining. Results After prctreatment with EACR, the levels of AST, ALT, 11,-1, IL-6 in serum as well as MDA in the liver markedly decreased, whereas the activities of SOD, GSH and GSH-Px increased. The protein expressions of TNF-ot, NF-kB and caspase-3 were significantly down-regulated in EACR groups. HE staining also showed that the injury of liver was mitigated after administration of EACR. Conclusions EACR can prevent CC14 induced acute hepatic injury in mice. The mechanism may be related to attenuating the free radicals and inhibiting the lipid peroxidation.

Effects of benzoquinone of Averrhoa carambola L. Root on glucose and lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and inflammatory injury in diabetic mice / 中国药理学通报

Aim To investigate the therapeutic effects of benzoquinone of Averrhoa carambola L. root (BACR) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice and its mechanism. Methods The diabetic model was induced by intravenous injection of STZ in mice. Drugs were intragastrically administered to mice for 21 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and the change of body weight were measured every 7 days. The levels of the total cholesterol (TC) , triglyceride (TG) and low-density lIPoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lIPoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) , inter-leukin-IP(IL-lp) in serum and uperoxide dismutase (SOD) , malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in liver tissues were measured after administration. The pathological changes of liver tissues were observed by HE staining. The expression of Tolllike receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) , nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) were observed by immunohistochemistry. Result Compared with model group, the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, MCP-1, IL-1 p in serum as well as MDA in liver markedly decreased in BACR groups while HDL-C lev-el, the activities of SOD and GSH-Px increased. HE staining showed that BACR improved the pathological condition of liver tissues. The protein expression of TLR4, MyD88, NF-kB were obviously up-regulated. Conclusions BACR could reduce blood glucose, blood lIPid on diabetes mellitus, and its mechanism may be related to inhibiting the release of inflammatory factors and enhancing antioxidant capacity.

Morfologia de frutos, sementes e plântulas de Averrhoa bilimbi L. oriundas de dois estágios de maturação / Fruits, seeds and seedlings morphology of Averrhoa bilimbi L. derived from two stages of maturation

Este trabalho teve por objetivo descrever as características morfológicas de frutos, sementes e plântulas de Averrhoa bilimbi L. oriundas de frutos imaturos e maduros. Os frutos de A. bilimbi foram separados de acordo com a sua coloração em frutos imaturos e maduros. O registro das características morfológicas dos frutos, sementes e plântulas foram realizados por meio de ilustrações manuais, fotografias e descrições de todos os aspectos morfológicos. Para o estudo da morfologia da germinação e plântula, foram semeadas quatro repetições de 25 sementes sobre substrato papel mata-borrão e levadas ao germinador tipo B.O.D., regulado à temperatura constante de 30°C e regime de luz contínua. Os frutos tanto imaturos como maduros variaram apenas quanto ao tamanho, consistência e coloração, sendo as demais características comuns à espécie. As sementes dos frutos imaturos e maduros diferenciaram-se quanto à turgescência dos tecidos, assim como sua coloração, brilho e textura. A germinação é do tipo epígea e fanerocotiledonar, com início no sétimo dia e término no décimo quinto dia após semeadura, com a obtenção da plântula normal. .

This study aimed to describe the fruits, seeds and seedlings morphological characteristics of Averrhoa bilimbi L. immature and mature fruits. The A. bilimbi fruits were separated according to color in immature and mature fruits. The record of fruits, seeds and seedlings morphological characteristics were performed by means of manual illustrations, photographs and morphological aspects descriptions. To study the germination and seedling morphology were take four replications of 25 seeds sown on blotter paper substrate and brought to B.O.D. adjusted in constant temperature 30°C under continuous light. The immature and mature fruits varied only in size, consistency and color, and other characteristics were common to the species. The seeds of immature and mature fruits could distinguished regarding the tissues turgor, as well as its color, luster and texture. The germination is phanerocotylar and epigeal, commencing on the seventh day and ending on the fifteenth day after seeding by obtaining normal seedling.

Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L): from traditional uses to pharmacological activities / Fruta de la estrella (Averrhoa carambola L): desde los usos tradicionales a las actividades farmacológicas

Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae), commonly known as star fruit bears a great significance in traditional medicine. Traditionally, A. carambola was used in ailments such as arthralgia, chronic headache, boils and pyodermas, colds, cough, epistaxis, spermatorrhea, fever, food poisoning, gastroenteritis, malaria, malarial splenomegaly, oliguria, postpartum edema, sore throat, subcalorism and traumatic injury. Pharmacological investigations on A. carambola have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antitumor and anti-ulcer activities. In addition, the plant possesses hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, nephrotoxic, neurotoxic, negative inotropic and chronotropic effects. Phytochemical investigations have shown the presence of saponins, tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids. This review is an effort to update the pharmacological activities and clinical studies on A. carambola.

Averrhoa carambola L. (Familia: Oxalidaceae), comúnmente conocida como fruta de la estrella tiene una gran importancia en la medicina tradicional. La Medicina Tradicional reporta el uso de A. carambola en dolencias tales como: artralgia, dolor de cabeza crónico, forúnculos y piodermas, resfriados, tos, epistaxis, espermatorrea, fiebre, intoxicación alimentaria, gastroenteritis, malaria, paludismo, esplenomegalia malárica, oliguria, edema post-parto, dolor de garganta , subcalorismo y lesiones traumáticas. Investigaciones farmacológicas en A. carambola han demostrado efectos anti-inflamatorios, antimicrobianos, antitumorales, antifúngicas, y actividades anti-úlcera, hipocolesterolémico, hipoglucemiante, hipotensor, nefrotóxicos, y efectos neurotóxicos y cronotrópicos negativos. Proyecciones preliminares fitoquímicas han demostrado la presencia de saponinas, taninos, alcaloides y flavonoides. Esta revisión constituye un esfuerzo para actualizar las actividades farmacológicas y estudios clínicos sobre A. carambola.

Effect of Traditional Sun-Drying on Phenolic Antioxidants of Averrhoa Bilimbi L.

Averrhoa bilimbi L. has various beneficial properties including antidiabetic and antioxidant activity. The effect of traditional sun drying on the stability of fresh A. bilimbi fruits was investigated by using different methanol/water extracts, and their total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) compared. The TAC was evaluated using established in vitro models such as 1,1,diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging activity, 2,2´-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) scavenging assay, total reducing power, phosphomolybdenum assay and metal chelating activity. All the extracts of the dried fruit showed lower TPC compared to the fresh bilimbi extracts by 23-88%, TAC of which corresponded accordingly. The investigation revealed that A. bilimbi was a good source of antioxidants; however, the drying process of the fruit significantly affected the bioactive compounds.

Phytochemical screenings, thrombolytic activity and antimicrobial properties of the bark extracts of Averrhoa bilimbi.

In this present study, the bark extracts of Averrhoa bilimbi were subjected to the thrombolytic activities were assessed by using human erythrocyte and the results were compared with standard streptokinase (SK). On the other hand, bark extracts of A. bilimbi revealed moderate antibacterial activity against some microorganisms used in the screening. Preliminary phytochemical investigation suggested the presence of flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids.

Chemical constituents and evaluation of the toxic and antioxidant activities of Averrhoa carambola leaves

The liquid-liquid partitioning of a crude hydroalcoholic extract of Averrhoa carambola L., Oxalidaceae, leaves led to the isolation of a sterol and three flavone C-glycosides. From the n-hexane fraction β-sitosterol was isolated and from the ethyl acetate fraction apigenin-6-C-β-L-fucopyranoside (1) and apigenin6-C-(2"-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-L-fucopyranoside (2) were obtained. Apigenin6-C-(2"-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside (3) was isolated from the n-butanol fraction. Compound 3 is new, while 1 and 2 have been previously isolated from A. carambola. The antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH radical scavenging assay and reducing power of iron (III) to iron (II) ions. The ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions showed the most antioxidant activity. As evaluated by ability of the sample to scavenge DPPH the IC50 values were 90.92 and 124.48 µg/ mL, respectively. In the assay of reducing power these fractions presented 135.64 and 125.12 of ascorbic acid equivalents, respectively. The antioxidant activity exhibited a significant relationship with the phenolic content (r² = 0.997), but a poor relationship with the flavonoids content (r² = 0.424). The n-hexane fraction was the only fraction to present good toxicity using A. salina with LC50 800.2 µg/mL.

Physical and chemical characteristics of carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) fruit at three stages of maturity.

The fresh fruits of carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) are used in jelly making, for garnishing salads and to prepare drinks. In some Asian countries, the green mature fruit is relished and consumed fresh and used in pickle preparations. In the present work the physical and chemical properties of carambola fruits were studied at different maturity stages. The fruits were characterized for physical properties like length, diameter, fresh weight, dry weight and moisture content. The fruits were also analyzed for soluble protein, total sugars, reducing sugars, ascorbic acid, oxalic acid, amino acid, pectin and chlorophyll. The composition of fruit varied widely during maturation. The length, diameter, fresh weight and dry weight increased as fruit mature and ripen. The pH of the fruit increased with maturity. The contents of reducing sugars, total sugars, soluble protein, amino acid and oxalic acid increased with maturity. Total chlorophyll content increased from young to half ripe fruit but in full ripe fruit it decreased significantly.

Avaliação do perfil glicêmico de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 com e sem administração de infusão de folhas de Averrhoa carambola / Evaluation of glycemic profile of patients with diabetes mellitus type 2with or without administration of Averrhoa carambola infusion

Objetivos: avaliar o efeito da infusão das folhas da planta Averrhoa carambola nos níveis glicêmicos de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Métodos: este ensaio clínico estudou 22 pacientes, divididos em grupo teste (11 pacientes que fizeram uso do chá das folhas de Averrhoa carambola) e grupo controle (11 pacientes sem uso do chá), que foram acompanhados durante um período de três meses. Para avaliar os níveis glicêmicos, foi feita dosagem sanguínea em intervalos de 15 dias. Resultados: após três meses, os níveis de glicose sanguínea do grupo que ingeriu o chá das folhas de Averrhoa carambola não diferiram dos níveis do grupo teste. Durante o período da pesquisa a função renal foi monitorada através da dosagem sérica de creatinina, que se mostrou inalterada nos dois grupos. Conclusões: não foram detectados efeitos da ingestão de infusão das folhas da planta Averrhoa carambola nos níveis glicêmicos de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2.

Aims: To evaluate the effect of Averrhoa carambola infusion in blood glucose levels of patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. Methods: This clinical trial studied 22 patients, divided in test group (11 patients who drank the tea of Averrhoa carambola leaves) and control group (11 patients who did not drink the tea), which were monitored over a period of three months. To analyze the blood glucose levels, blood dosage was done every 15 days. Results: After three months, the blood glucose levels in the group that ingested the tea of leaves of Averrhoa carambola did not differ from those of the test group. During the trial period the renal function was monitored by seric creatinine dosage, which remained unchanged in both groups. Conclusions: This study did not detect effects of the tea of Averrhoa carambola leaves on blood glucose levels of patients with diabetes mellitus Type 2.

Estiolamento, incisão na base da estaca e uso do ácido indolbutírico na propagação da caramboleira por estacas lenhosas / Effect of indolebutyric acid, etiolation and basal injury on propagation of star fruit by hardwood cuttings

Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, avaliar o efeito do estiolamento, da incisão na base da estaca e do tratamento com ácido indolbutírico (AIB) no enraizamento de estacas lenhosas de caramboleira. As estacas foram padronizadas com um par de folhas inteiras e 12 cm de comprimento. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento estatístico inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 3 x 4, onde os fatores estudados foram técnicas aplicadas nas estacas (estiolamento, ferimento na base e controle) e diferentes concentrações de AIB (0; 3.000; 6.000 e 9.000 mg L-1). As estacas lenhosas foram utilizadas como tratamento-controle. O estiolamento foi realizado 45 dias antes da retirada da estaca no ramo, envolvendo-se a base da futura estaca com fita plástica preta. A incisão na base da estaca foi realizada no preparo das mesmas, através de dois cortes na base. As estacas foram mantidas em câmara de nebulização intermitente e, após 75 dias, avaliaram-se as porcentagens de estacas enraizadas, de estacas vivas, de formação de calos e o número de raízes emitidas por estaca. Concluiu-se que as técnicas de estiolamento e ferimento na base da estaca, e a aplicação de AIB não induziram a formação de raízes em estacas lenhosas de caramboleira.

The aim of this work was to verify the influence of shading, lesion in cutting bases and application of Indolbutyric acid (IBA) in the rooting of star fruit hardwood cuttings. The cuttings were padronized with three buds, two leaves, and 12 cm of length. The experimental design was completely randomized, with the factorial scheme 3 x 4, where the studied factors were the cutting types (shaded hardwood, hardwood with lesion on the base, and hardwood, considered the control) and different concentration of IBA (0; 3,000; 6,000, and 9,000 mg L-1). The shading started 45 days before removing the cuttings from the branch, wrapping up the base of the future cuttings with black plastic tape. The incision on the base of the cuttings was performed at the moment they were removed from the branch, through two cuts on the base. The cuttings were maintained in a chamber under intermittent mist and after 75 days, the rooting percentage, survival percentage, callus formation percentage and length roots per cuttings were evaluated. It was concluded that hardwood cuttings without the treatments of shading and lesion on the base and application of IBA showed the best results of rooting.

Influência da idade biológica da planta matriz e do tipo de estaca caulinar de caramboleira na formaçâo de raízes adventicias / Influence of biologic age of stock plant and type of star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L. ) stem cuttings in root advetitious formation

Comercialmente, o método mais utilizado na propagação da caramboleira (Averrhoa carambola L.) é a enxertia, que pode ser realizada por borbulhia ou garfagem. Porém, esse método apresenta algumas características que podem tornar a produção de mudas onerosa, exigindo mão-de-obra especializada e maiores custos quando comparado com o método de estaquia. Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, verificar a influência dos tipos de estacas (apical e mediana) e da idade biológica da planta (juvenil e adulta) na capacidade de formação de raízes adventícias em estacas de caramboleira. Estacas herbáceas de caramboleira foram coletadas de ramos de plantas juvenis (1 ano) e adultas (15 anos), padronizadas com um par de folhas inteiras e 12 cm de comprimento. Em seguida foram colocadas em bandejas de poliestireno contendo como substrato vermiculita média, em câmara de nebulização intermitente com 50 por cento de sombreamento. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 2 x 2, onde os fatores estudados foram tipos de estacas (apical e mediana) e idade biológica da planta (juvenil e adulta). Após 70 dias, avaliaram-se as porcentagens de estacas enraizadas, estacas vivas, estacas brotadas e o número de raízes emitidas por estaca. O tipo de estaca não influenciou em nenhuma das variáveis analisadas. Concluiu-se que as estacas juvenis de caramboleira se mostraram mais eficientes na formação de raízes adventícias (47 por cento), quando comparadas com as estacas retiradas de plantas com idade biológica adulta.

Commercially, the most used method in the star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.) propagation is the grafting, that may be accomplished by budding or cleft grafting. However, this method presents some characteristics that may turn the plantlets production onerous, demanding professional work and larger costs when compared with cutting methods. This paper was carried out with the aim of verifying the influence of the types of cuttings (top and median) and biological age (juvenile and adult) in the capacity of formation of adventitious roots in star fruits cuttings. Star fruits herbaceous cuttings were collected from juvenile branches (1 year) and adults (15 years), padronized with two leaves and 12 cm of length. Later the cuttings were placed in polyethylene trays containing vermiculite as substrate, in intermittent mist chamber with 50 percent of shading. The experimental design was completely randomized, with the factorial 2 x 2, where the studied factors were types of cuttings (top and median) and biological age of cuttings (juvenile and adult). After 70 days, the rooting, survival and sprouts percentage and number of roots emitted by cutting were evaluated. None of the variables analyzed were affected by the type of cuttings. One concluded that star fruits juvenile cuttings showed to be more efficient in the formation of adventitious roots (47 percent) when compared with the cuttings collected from plants with adult biological age.

Aqueous leaf extract of Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae) reduces both the inotropic effect of BAY K 8644 on the guinea pig atrium and the calcium current on GH3cells / Extrato aquoso das folhas de Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae) reduz tanto o efeito inotrópico do BAY K 8644 em átrio de cobaia, quanto a corrente de cálcio em células GH3

It was previously showed that aqueous leaf extract (AqEx) of Averrhoa carambola depresses the guinea pig atrial inotropism. Therefore, experiments were carried out on guineapig left atrium and on pituitary GH3 cells in order to evaluate the effect of AqEx on the cellular calcium infl ux. The atrium was mounted in an organ chamber (5 mL, Tyrode, 27 ± 0.1 °C, 95% O2, 5 % CO2), stretched to 10 mN, and paced at 2 Hz (0.5 ms, 400 V) and GH3 cells were submitted to a whole cell voltage clamp confi guration. In the atrium, the AqEx (1500 μg/mL) shifted to the right the concentration-effect curve of the positive inotropic effect produced by (±) BAY K 8644, an L-type calcium channel agonist. The AqEx increased EC50 (concentration required to promote 50% of the maximum effect) of the inotropic effect of BAY K 8644 from 7.8 ± 0.38 to 115.1 ± 0.44 nM (N = 3; p < 0.05). In GH3 cells assayed with 500 μg/mL of AqEx, the L-type calcium inward current declined 30 % (from 282 to 190 pA). Nevertheless, the extract did not change the voltage correspondent to the peak current. These data suggest that, at least in part, the negative inotropic effect of AqEx on the guinea pig atrium is due to a reduction of the L-type calcium current.

Em estudo prévio mostrou-se que o extrato aquoso das folhas de Averrhoacarambola (ExAq) reduziu o inotropismo atrial da cobaia. Por isso, este trabalho avaliou se o ExAq interfere com o infl uxo de cálcio através da membrana celular. A investigação foi conduzidaem átrio esquerdo de cobaia, montado em cuba (5 mL, Tyrode, 27 ± 0,1 °C, 95 % O2, 5 % CO2), estirado para uma tensão de repouso de 10 mN e submetido a uma estimulação de 2 Hz (0,5 ms, 400 V). O efeito do ExAq sobre a entrada de cálcio nas células foi avaliado em átrio de cobaia e em células GH3, estas submetidas a ‘patch clamp’ na confi guração ‘whole cell’. No átrio, o ExAq (1500 μg /mL) deslocou para direita a curva concentração-efeito do (±) BAY K 8644 (agonista dos canais de cálcio tipo-L), aumentando a CE50 (concentração capaz de produzir 50 % do efeito máximo) de 7,8 ± 0,38 para 115,1 ± 0,44 nM (N = 3, p < 0,05). Em células GH3, este extrato (500 μg /mL) reduziu de 282 para 190 pA (30 %) a corrente de cálcio, sem contudo alterar a voltagem de pico da curva desta corrente. Estes resultados mostram que, pelo menos em parte, o efeito inotrópico negativo do ExAq em átrio de cobaia se deve a uma diminuição do infl uxo de cálcio pelos canais tipo-L.

Hypoglycemic effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae) / Efeito hipoglicemiante do extrato hidroalcoólico de folhas de Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae)

O efeito do tratamento via oral (20 mg/kg x day) com extrato hidroalcoólico de folhas de Averrhoa carambola L. (EHFC) sobre a glicemia de jejum (15 h) foi examinada ao compararmos ratos que receberam veículo (Grupo controle) ou EHFC (Grupo EHFC) durante 15 dias. O grupo EHFC apresentou menor glicemia de jejum (p<0,05). Em contraste, o grupo EHFC apresentou maior (p<0,05) produção hepática glicose a partir de L-alanina (5 mM). Este efeito foi mediado, pelo menos parcialmente, pela ativação do catabolismo da L-alanina, inferido pela maior produção hepática de uréia (p<0,05) e L-lactato (p<0,05). Diferente da L-alanina, a produção hepática de glicose a partir de L-glutamina (5 mM), L-lactato (2 mM) e glicerol (2 mM) no grupo EHFC foi similar ao grupo controle. Adicionalmente, o efeito do tratamento com EHFC sobre a captação de glicose no músculo soleus, inferida pela incorporação de [14C]-glicose em glicogênio (síntese de glicogênio) e produção de [14C]-lactato foi investigada, verificando-se resultados semelhantes nos dois grupos. Assim, concluiu-se que a redução da glicemia de jejum promovida pelo tratamento com EHFC não foi mediada por inibição da gliconeogenese hepática e/ou aumento da captação muscular de glicose.

The effect of the oral treatment (20 mg/kg x day) with the hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Averrhoa carambola L. (HELAC) on fasting glycemia (15 h) was examined. For this purpose, rats that received vehicle (Control group) or HELAC (HELAC group) during 15 days were compared. HELAC group showed lower fasting glycemia (p<0.05). In contrast, livers from HELAC group showed higher (p<0.05) glucose production from L-alanine (5 mM). This effect was mediated, at least part of it, by an activation of the catabolism of L-alanine inferred by the increased hepatic urea (p<0.05) and L-lactate (p<0.05) production. Differently of L-alanine, the glucose production from L-glutamine (5 mM), L-lactate (2 mM) and glycerol (2 mM) was similar (Control group vs. HELAC group). In addition, the HELAC treatment did not change the glucose uptake in soleus muscles, inferred by the incorporation of [14C]-glucose to glycogen (glycogen synthesis) and [14C]-lactate production. Thus, we can conclude that the reduction of fasting glycemia promoted by the treatment with HELAC was not mediated by an inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis and/or an increased glucose uptake by muscles.

Primeiro registro de moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) em carambola nos municípios de Teresina, Altos e Parnaíba no estado do Piauí / First register of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in star fruit in Teresina, Altos and Parnaiba, state of Piaui, Brazil

O presente trabalho visou conhecer as espécies de moscas-das-frutas associadas à carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) em três municípios do Estado do Piauí, bem como determinar a freqüência e o índice de infestação desses insetos. Os frutos foram coletados durante os meses de agosto e setembro de 2005, colocados em bandejas plásticas com solo esterilizado, armazenados em gaiolas metálicas e deixados em temperatura ambiente no laboratório. Até a emergência dos adultos, estes foram acondicionados em frascos contendo álcool 70% e posteriormente identificados em nível de espécie. O maior índice de infestação (moscas/fruto) de C. capitata ocorreu no município de Altos (3,66), seguido pelos municípiosde Teresina e Parnaíba que apresentaram índice de infestação de 2,18 e 0,016, respectivamente. C. capitata foi a espécie mais freqüente em todos os municípios, apresentando freqüências de 100%, 96,5%, 100% em Teresina, Altos e Parnaíba, respectivamente. Ceratitis capitata é registrada pela primeira vez em frutos de carambola nos municípios piauienses de Teresina, Altos e Parnaíba. Anastrepha fraterculus é registrada pela primeira vez no município de Altos. A. fraterculus e C. capitata ocorrem simultaneamente em frutos de carambola.

The present work aims to register the occurrence of the fruit flies associated to star fruit (Averrhoacarambola L.) in three counties of the state of Piaui, as well as to determine the frequency and the indexof infestation of these insects. The fruits had been collected during the months of August and September2005, and had been placed in plastic trays with sterilized soil, stored in metal cages, and left inenvironmental temperature at the laboratory. Until emergency, the adults had been kept in bottles withalcohol 70% and later identified in the species level. The biggest index of infestation (flies/fruit) of C.capitata has occurred in the county of Altos (3.66), followed by Teresina and Parnaiba that had presentedindex of infestation of 2.18 and 0.016, respectively. C. capitata was the most frequent species in all thecounties, presenting frequencies of 100%, 96.5%, and 100% in Teresina, Altos and Parnaiba, respectively.Ceratitis capitata is registered for the first time in star fruit in Teresina, Altos and Parnaiba, state of thePiaui. Anastrepha fraterculus is registered for the first time in the county of Altos. A. fraterculus and C.capitata occur simultaneously in star fruits.

Eficiência de absorção, transporte e utilização de macronutrientes por porta-enxertos de caramboleira, cultivados em soluções nutritivas / Up take, transportat and use of macronutrients in rootstock for star fruit tree cultivated in nutrient solutions

O estado nutricional de plantas cultivadas em solução nutritiva pode ser influenciado pelo tipo de solução utilizada, afetando desta forma seu adequado crescimento. Com este trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a exigência nutricional de porta-enxertos de caramboleira, cultivados em quatro diferentes soluções nutritivas. O delineamento experimental empregado foi inteiramente casualizado, com três repetições, tendo como tratamentos as quatro soluções. Como solução padrão foi utilizada a de Hoagland & Arnon, comparada à outras três soluções. O experimento foi conduzido em condições de casa-de-vegetação, em recipientes plásticos com 8 L de capacidade. Após 150 dias do transplantio, foram determinados a matéria seca e o teor de nutrientes, inferindo-se o conteúdo dos macronutrientes na planta. Com esses resultados calculou-se os índices: eficiência de absorção; eficiência de transporte e eficiência de utilização dos nutrientes. As soluções nutritivas de Sarruge, de Castellane & Araújo e de Furlani foram semelhantes na produção de matéria seca das plantas de caramboleira. O uso da solução nutritiva de Hoagland & Arnon resultou em menor produção de matéria seca das caramboleiras, e, também, menor eficiência de utilização de Ca e Mg pelas plantas. A eficiência de transporte dos nutrientes foi a mais afetada pelas soluções nutritivas utilizadas, enquanto a eficiência de utilização dos nutrientes sofreu pouca variação em função das soluções empregadas.

The nutritional status of plants cultivated in nutrient solutions way be influenced by the solution which would affect its growth plants. The present essay was undergone to assess the nutritional demands of root stock for star fruit trees, cultivated in four different nutritional solutions. An completely experimental design was used with three repetitions, with four different nutrient solutions as treatments. The Hoagland & Arnon solution was used as standard and was the control wich was with compared three other solutions. The experiment was carrie out under green house conditions, using 8 L pot. After 150 days of transplantation, dry material and macro nutrient levels were determined. The following indicators were calculated: absorption efficiency; transportation efficiency, and efficiency of nutrient use. The Sarruge, the Castellane & Araújo, and the Furlani nutrient solutions were similar to accumulation of dry material in the star fruit plants. The use of the Hoagland & Arnon solution resulted in lower material dry production in and also lower of Ca and Mg use. Nutrient transportation efficiency was the indicator most affected by the different nutritional solutions used, while efficiency of nutrient use showed small variation when comparing the solutions.