Population attributes of Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil / Atributos populacionais de Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) em manguezais no estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) is an estuarine gastropod of tropical occurrence, which lives mainly on trunks of mangrove tree species. This study aimed to evaluate the population attributes of this species, such as abundance, space-time distribution, sex ratio and recruitment in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. The specimens were collected monthly throughout 2018, on trunks of the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle L. at two heights and on two horizontal levels. Specimens that were on the marine grass Spartina alterniflora Loisel were also collected. After counting, biometrics and sexing, the specimens were returned alive to the environment. The average size and weight of L. angulifera was higher (p<0.05) in places with taller and less sparse trees and the vertical distribution on the trunks showed a preference for strata close to the soil. Both results are related to shading and protection against desiccation. Females were more abundant than males, at an approximate sex ratio F: M of 1.4: 1. Recruits were observed throughout the period, showing continuous reproduction of the species with a recruitment peak in spring (September to November). The study revealed the importance of keep the mangroves intact to allow the maintenance of the natural stocks of the species.

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) é um gastrópode estuarino, de ocorrência tropical, que vive principalmente sobre troncos de espécies arbóreas de mangue. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os atributos populacionais dessa espécie, como abundância, distribuição espaço-temporal, razão sexual e recrutamento em manguezais do estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil. Os espécimes foram coletados mensalmente ao longo de 2018, em troncos do mangue vermelho Rhizophora mangle L. em duas alturas e em dois níveis horizontais. Também foram coletados espécimes que estavam na grama marinha Spartina alterniflora Loisel. Após contagem, biometria e sexagem, os espécimes foram devolvidos vivos ao ambiente. O tamanho e peso médios de L. angulifera foram maiores (p<0,05) em locais com árvores mais altas e menos esparsas e a distribuição vertical nos troncos mostrou preferência por estratos próximos ao solo. Ambos os resultados estão relacionados ao sombreamento e proteção contra a dessecação. As fêmeas foram mais abundantes que os machos, em uma proporção sexual aproximada F: M de 1,4: 1. Recrutas foram observados ao longo do período, mostrando reprodução contínua da espécie, com um pico de recrutamento na primavera (setembro a novembro). O estudo revelou a importância de manter os manguezais intactos para permitir a manutenção dos estoques naturais da espécie.

Population attributes of Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil

Abstract Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) is an estuarine gastropod of tropical occurrence, which lives mainly on trunks of mangrove tree species. This study aimed to evaluate the population attributes of this species, such as abundance, space-time distribution, sex ratio and recruitment in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. The specimens were collected monthly throughout 2018, on trunks of the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle L. at two heights and on two horizontal levels. Specimens that were on the marine grass Spartina alterniflora Loisel were also collected. After counting, biometrics and sexing, the specimens were returned alive to the environment. The average size and weight of L. angulifera was higher (p 0.05) in places with taller and less sparse trees and the vertical distribution on the trunks showed a preference for strata close to the soil. Both results are related to shading and protection against desiccation. Females were more abundant than males, at an approximate sex ratio F: M of 1.4: 1. Recruits were observed throughout the period, showing continuous reproduction of the species with a recruitment peak in spring (September to November). The study revealed the importance of keep the mangroves intact to allow the maintenance of the natural stocks of the species.

Resumo Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) é um gastrópode estuarino, de ocorrência tropical, que vive principalmente sobre troncos de espécies arbóreas de mangue. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os atributos populacionais dessa espécie, como abundância, distribuição espaço-temporal, razão sexual e recrutamento em manguezais do estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil. Os espécimes foram coletados mensalmente ao longo de 2018, em troncos do mangue vermelho Rhizophora mangle L. em duas alturas e em dois níveis horizontais. Também foram coletados espécimes que estavam na grama marinha Spartina alterniflora Loisel. Após contagem, biometria e sexagem, os espécimes foram devolvidos vivos ao ambiente. O tamanho e peso médios de L. angulifera foram maiores (p 0,05) em locais com árvores mais altas e menos esparsas e a distribuição vertical nos troncos mostrou preferência por estratos próximos ao solo. Ambos os resultados estão relacionados ao sombreamento e proteção contra a dessecação. As fêmeas foram mais abundantes que os machos, em uma proporção sexual aproximada F: M de 1,4: 1. Recrutas foram observados ao longo do período, mostrando reprodução contínua da espécie, com um pico de recrutamento na primavera (setembro a novembro). O estudo revelou a importância de manter os manguezais intactos para permitir a manutenção dos estoques naturais da espécie.

Population attributes of Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil / Atributos populacionais de Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) em manguezais no estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) is an estuarine gastropod of tropical occurrence, which lives mainly on trunks of mangrove tree species. This study aimed to evaluate the population attributes of this species, such as abundance, space-time distribution, sex ratio and recruitment in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. The specimens were collected monthly throughout 2018, on trunks of the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle L. at two heights and on two horizontal levels. Specimens that were on the marine grass Spartina alterniflora Loisel were also collected. After counting, biometrics and sexing, the specimens were returned alive to the environment. The average size and weight of L. angulifera was higher (p<0.05) in places with taller and less sparse trees and the vertical distribution on the trunks showed a preference for strata close to the soil. Both results are related to shading and protection against desiccation. Females were more abundant than males, at an approximate sex ratio F: M of 1.4: 1. Recruits were observed throughout the period, showing continuous reproduction of the species with a recruitment peak in spring (September to November). The study revealed the importance of keep the mangroves intact to allow the maintenance of the natural stocks of the species.

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) é um gastrópode estuarino, de ocorrência tropical, que vive principalmente sobre troncos de espécies arbóreas de mangue. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os atributos populacionais dessa espécie, como abundância, distribuição espaço-temporal, razão sexual e recrutamento em manguezais do estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil. Os espécimes foram coletados mensalmente ao longo de 2018, em troncos do mangue vermelho Rhizophora mangle L. em duas alturas e em dois níveis horizontais. Também foram coletados espécimes que estavam na grama marinha Spartina alterniflora Loisel. Após contagem, biometria e sexagem, os espécimes foram devolvidos vivos ao ambiente. O tamanho e peso médios de L. angulifera foram maiores (p<0,05) em locais com árvores mais altas e menos esparsas e a distribuição vertical nos troncos mostrou preferência por estratos próximos ao solo. Ambos os resultados estão relacionados ao sombreamento e proteção contra a dessecação. As fêmeas foram mais abundantes que os machos, em uma proporção sexual aproximada F: M de 1,4: 1. Recrutas foram observados ao longo do período, mostrando reprodução contínua da espécie, com um pico de recrutamento na primavera (setembro a novembro). O estudo revelou a importância de manter os manguezais intactos para permitir a manutenção dos estoques naturais da espécie.

Population attributes of Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil / Atributos populacionais de Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) em manguezais no estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) is an estuarine gastropod of tropical occurrence, which lives mainly on trunks of mangrove tree species. This study aimed to evaluate the population attributes of this species, such as abundance, space-time distribution, sex ratio and recruitment in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. The specimens were collected monthly throughout 2018, on trunks of the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle L. at two heights and on two horizontal levels. Specimens that were on the marine grass Spartina alterniflora Loisel were also collected. After counting, biometrics and sexing, the specimens were returned alive to the environment. The average size and weight of L. angulifera was higher (p<0.05) in places with taller and less sparse trees and the vertical distribution on the trunks showed a preference for strata close to the soil. Both results are related to shading and protection against desiccation. Females were more abundant than males, at an approximate sex ratio F: M of 1.4: 1. Recruits were observed throughout the period, showing continuous reproduction of the species with a recruitment peak in spring (September to November). The study revealed the importance of keep the mangroves intact to allow the maintenance of the natural stocks of the species.(AU)

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) é um gastrópode estuarino, de ocorrência tropical, que vive principalmente sobre troncos de espécies arbóreas de mangue. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os atributos populacionais dessa espécie, como abundância, distribuição espaço-temporal, razão sexual e recrutamento em manguezais do estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil. Os espécimes foram coletados mensalmente ao longo de 2018, em troncos do mangue vermelho Rhizophora mangle L. em duas alturas e em dois níveis horizontais. Também foram coletados espécimes que estavam na grama marinha Spartina alterniflora Loisel. Após contagem, biometria e sexagem, os espécimes foram devolvidos vivos ao ambiente. O tamanho e peso médios de L. angulifera foram maiores (p<0,05) em locais com árvores mais altas e menos esparsas e a distribuição vertical nos troncos mostrou preferência por estratos próximos ao solo. Ambos os resultados estão relacionados ao sombreamento e proteção contra a dessecação. As fêmeas foram mais abundantes que os machos, em uma proporção sexual aproximada F: M de 1,4: 1. Recrutas foram observados ao longo do período, mostrando reprodução contínua da espécie, com um pico de recrutamento na primavera (setembro a novembro). O estudo revelou a importância de manter os manguezais intactos para permitir a manutenção dos estoques naturais da espécie.(AU)

Population attributes of Littoraria angulifera (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil.

Littoraria angulifera (Lamarck, 1822) is an estuarine gastropod of tropical occurrence, which lives mainly on trunks of mangrove tree species. This study aimed to evaluate the population attributes of this species, such as abundance, space-time distribution, sex ratio and recruitment in mangroves in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. The specimens were collected monthly throughout 2018, on trunks of the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle L. at two heights and on two horizontal levels. Specimens that were on the marine grass Spartina alterniflora Loisel were also collected. After counting, biometrics and sexing, the specimens were returned alive to the environment. The average size and weight of L. angulifera was higher (p<0.05) in places with taller and less sparse trees and the vertical distribution on the trunks showed a preference for strata close to the soil. Both results are related to shading and protection against desiccation. Females were more abundant than males, at an approximate sex ratio F: M of 1.4: 1. Recruits were observed throughout the period, showing continuous reproduction of the species with a recruitment peak in spring (September to November). The study revealed the importance of keep the mangroves intact to allow the maintenance of the natural stocks of the species.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil / Análise morfométrica de Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) em regiões estuarinas do Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p<0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Resumo O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p<0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil.

The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p<0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil / Análise morfométrica de Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) em regiões estuarinas do Nordeste do Brasil

The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p 0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.(AU)

O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p 0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.(AU)

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil

Abstract The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p 0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Resumo O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p 0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.

Therapy with mesenchymal stromal cells or conditioned medium reverse cardiac alterations in a high-fat diet-induced obesity model.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is associated with numerous cardiac complications, including arrhythmias, cardiac fibrosis, remodeling and heart failure. Here we evaluated the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and their conditioned medium (CM) to treat cardiac complications in a mouse model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. METHODS: After obesity induction and HFD withdrawal, obese mice were treated with MSCs, CM or vehicle. Cardiac function was assessed using electrocardiography, echocardiography and treadmill test. Body weight and biochemical parameters were evaluated. Cardiac tissue was used for real time (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and histopathologic analysis. RESULTS/DISCUSSION: Characterization of CM by protein array showed the presence of different cytokines and growth factors, including chemokines, osteopontin, cystatin C, Serpin E1 and Gas 6. HFD-fed mice presented cardiac arrhythmias, altered cardiac gene expression and fibrosis reflected in physical exercise incapacity associated with obesity and diabetes. Administration of MSCs or CM improved arrhythmias and exercise capacity. This functional improvement correlated with normalization of GATA4 gene expression in the hearts of MSC- or CM-treated mice. The gene expression of connexin 43, troponin I, adiponectin, transforming growth factor (TGF) ß, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP1) were significantly reduced in MSCs, but not in CM-treated mice. Moreover, MSC or CM administration reduced the intensity of cardiac fibrosis. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that MSCs and CM have a recovery effect on cardiac disturbances due to obesity and corroborate to the paracrine action of MSCs in heart disease models.

Microencapsulate Aspergillus niger peptidases from agroindustrial waste wheat bran: spray process evaluation and stability.

The aim of this work was to obtain microencapsulated stable Aspergillus niger peptidases by post fermentation spray drying. The enzymatic extract was evaluated before and after spray drying microencapsulation to verify the effects of five different process parameters on the extract enzymatic activity, i.e. air flow, extract feed rate, drying temperature, homogenising time and weight ratio of extract to encapsulation material. The optimal conditions were determined by desirability functions and experimentally confirmed. Additionally, the stability of the microparticles was assessed during 60 days at 4 °C, 25 °C and 40 °C. The results revealed that the microparticles stored at 4 °C retained approximately 100% of their proteolytic activity at nine days of storage. Considering the industrial adaptation of the bioprocess and the prospect of commercial application of the proteases, the evaluation of different parameters for drying enzymes is required as a valuable alternative to obtain biotechnological products with high added value.

Pneumonia due to Talaromyces marneffei in a Dog from Southern Brazil with Concomitant Canine Distemper Virus Infection.

The pathological and molecular findings associated with Talaromyces marneffei-induced pneumonia with concomitant infection by canine distemper virus (CDV) are described in a dog. The principal pathological alteration occurred in the lungs. Histopathology confirmed multifocal granulomatous pneumonia associated with numerous intralesional and intracellular septate fission cells consistent with T. marneffei. A molecular assay designed to amplify a partial fragment of the 18S rRNA gene of T. marneffei provided positive results from two fungal cultures derived from the lung. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses confirmed the results of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Furthermore, antigens of the CDV N protein were identified within the bronchial epithelium by immunohistochemistry and a PCR assay amplified the CDV N gene from hepatic and pulmonary fragments. Collectively, the pathological and molecular techniques confirmed a diagnosis of T. marneffei-induced pneumonia with concomitant infection by CDV. These findings represent the first description of pulmonary penicilliosis in the dog and extend the geographical niche of this emerging infectious pathogen. In this case, infection by CDV may have induced immunosuppression, which facilitated the development of pulmonary penicilliosis.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil

Abstract The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p 0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Resumo O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p 0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.

Microparticles Containing Curcumin Solid Dispersion: Stability, Bioavailability and Anti-Inflammatory Activity.

This work aimed at improving the solubility of curcumin by the preparation of spray-dried ternary solid dispersions containing Gelucire®50/13-Aerosil® and quantifying the resulting in vivo oral bioavailability and anti-inflammatory activity. The solid dispersion containing 40% of curcumin was characterised by calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. The solubility and dissolution rate of curcumin in aqueous HCl or phosphate buffer improved up to 3600- and 7.3-fold, respectively. Accelerated stability test demonstrated that the solid dispersion was stable for 9 months. The pharmacokinetic study showed a 5.5-fold increase in curcumin in rat blood plasma when compared to unprocessed curcumin. The solid dispersion also provided enhanced anti-inflammatory activity in rat paw oedema. Finally, the solid dispersion proposed here is a promising way to enhance curcumin bioavailability at an industrial pharmaceutical perspective, since its preparation applies the spray drying, which is an easy to scale up technique. The findings herein stimulate further in vivo evaluations and clinical tests as a cancer and Alzheimer chemoprevention agent.

Proteoma uterino durante o ciclo reprodutivo e gestação em animais domésticos / Uterine proteomics during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy in domestic animals

A abordagem proteômica tem permitido estudos da expressão proteica em diferentes tecidos e fluidoscorporais, em condiç ões e/ou momentos distintos. O recente progresso de metodologias nessa área tem permitidoo estudo de moléculas responsáveis por processos biológicos na reprodução animal. Dessa forma, este trabalhobuscou relatar os principais estudos abordando o proteoma uterino durante o ciclo reprodutivo e a gestação emanimais domésticos. O estudo da dinâmica molecular uterina tem permitido a identificação de proteínas compapel biológico na reprodução de fêmeas domésticas, gerando perspectiva tanto para a aplicação debiotecnologias quanto para o diagnóstico e o tratamento precoce de alterações reprodutivas.

Proteomic approach has allowed studies of protein expression in different tissues and body fluids indiscrete conditions and/or time points. Recent advances of methodologies in this field have allowed the study ofmolecules responsible for biological processes in animal reproduction. Thus this study aimed to report the mainstudies addressing the uterine proteome during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy in domestic animals. Thestudy of uterine molecular dynamics has allowed the identification of proteins with biological role in femalereproduction of domestic generating prospect for application of biotechnology and early diagnosis andtreatment of reproductive disturbances.

Proteoma uterino durante o ciclo reprodutivo e gestação em animais domésticos / Uterine proteomics during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy in domestic animals

A abordagem proteômica tem permitido estudos da expressão proteica em diferentes tecidos e fluidoscorporais, em condiç ões e/ou momentos distintos. O recente progresso de metodologias nessa área tem permitidoo estudo de moléculas responsáveis por processos biológicos na reprodução animal. Dessa forma, este trabalhobuscou relatar os principais estudos abordando o proteoma uterino durante o ciclo reprodutivo e a gestação emanimais domésticos. O estudo da dinâmica molecular uterina tem permitido a identificação de proteínas compapel biológico na reprodução de fêmeas domésticas, gerando perspectiva tanto para a aplicação debiotecnologias quanto para o diagnóstico e o tratamento precoce de alterações reprodutivas.(AU)

Proteomic approach has allowed studies of protein expression in different tissues and body fluids indiscrete conditions and/or time points. Recent advances of methodologies in this field have allowed the study ofmolecules responsible for biological processes in animal reproduction. Thus this study aimed to report the mainstudies addressing the uterine proteome during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy in domestic animals. Thestudy of uterine molecular dynamics has allowed the identification of proteins with biological role in femalereproduction of domestic generating prospect for application of biotechnology and early diagnosis andtreatment of reproductive disturbances.(AU)

Senecavirus A: An Emerging Vesicular Infection in Brazilian Pig Herds.

Vesicular diseases are clinically and economically important infections that affect farm animals. North American studies have suggested that Senecavirus A infection might be associated with a vesicular disease in pigs known as porcine idiopathic vesicular disease (PIVD). In the beginning of 2015, outbreaks of porcine vesicular disease have occurred in six Brazilian states from three geographical regions. Official diagnostic tests were performed with negative results for classical vesicular diseases of compulsory reporting. This study investigated Senecavirus A infection in PIVD outbreaks in which other aetiological agents were ruled out. A primer set was designed to amplify a 542-bp product size of VP3/VP1 region of Senecavirus A genome in RT-PCR assay. Primer specificity was analysed in silico and in porcine biological specimens. For this, clinical specimens were collected from eight pig herds affected with PIVD, including vesicular fluid (n = 4) and swabs (n = 7) and scrapings of ruptured vesicles and ulcerative lesions (n = 5) from weaned and adult pigs. Clinically healthy animals (n = 52) of PIVD-affected and non-affected pig herds also were evaluated for Senecavirus A infection. The 16 samples from PIVD-affected animals were positive for Senecavirus A in the RT-PCR assay, while none of the clinically healthy pigs were detected with the virus. Sequencing analysis revealed high nucleotide (87.6-98.5%) and amino acid (95-99.4%) similarities to SVV-01 prototype and other Senecavirus A strains from North American pigs. Primer set presented herein was suitable for molecular characterization of Senecavirus A. The results suggest that Senecavirus A was the aetiological agent of the vesicular disease outbreaks in the evaluated pig herds. This is the first study to report the Senecavirus A infection in clinically affected pigs outside of North America. Senecavirus A was considered a novel emerging pathogen associated with an important vesicular disease in Brazil.

The scavenger receptor MARCO is involved in Leishmania major infection by CBA/J macrophages.

CBA/J mice are resistant to Leishmania major infection but are permissive to L. amazonensis infection. In addition, CBA/J macrophages control L. major but not L. amazonensis infection in vitro. Phagocytosis by macrophages is known to determine the outcome of Leishmania infection. Pattern recognition receptors (PRR) adorning antigen presenting cell surfaces are known to coordinate the link between innate and adaptive immunity. The macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) is a PRR that is preferably expressed by macrophages and is capable of binding Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. No research on the role of MARCO in Leishmania-macrophage interactions has been reported. Here, we demonstrate, for the first time, that MARCO expression by CBA/J macrophages is increased in response to both in vitro and in vivo L. major infections, but not to L. amazonensis infection. In addition, a specific anti-MARCO monoclonal antibody reduced L. major infection of macrophages by 30%-40% in vitro. The draining lymph nodes of anti-MARCO-treated mice displayed a reduced presence of immunolabelled parasite and parasite antigens, as well as a reduced inflammatory response. These results support the hypothesis that MARCO has a role in macrophage infection by L. major in vitro as well as in vivo.

Inflammation and structural changes of splenic lymphoid tissue in visceral leishmaniasis: a study on naturally infected dogs.

The aim of this study was to identify splenic immuno-inflammatory patterns associated with natural infection by Leishmania chagasi. Spleen samples were obtained from 72 stray dogs from an endemic area of visceral leishmaniasis. The animals were grouped into four categories as follows: (i) potentially resistant to visceral leishmaniasis, with a positive leishmanin skin test result, and negative splenic culture for Leishmania parasites (ii) potentially susceptible to visceral leishmaniasis, with a negative leishmanin skin test and positive splenic culture for Leishmania (iii) infected with undefined susceptibility status, with a positive leishmanin skin test and positive splenic culture for Leishmania, and (iv) noninfected, with a negative leishmanin skin test, negative splenic culture for Leishmania, and negative serology for anti-Leishmania antibodies. Histopathological analyses showed that there was a higher frequency of perisplenitis (18/25, P < 0.0001), granuloma (7/25, P = 0.0102), structural disorganization (14/25, P < 0.0001), and atrophy of the lymphoid follicles (20/25, P = 0.0036) and of the marginal zone (15/25, P = 0.0025) in the potentially susceptible group than in the other groups. The data presented here show changes in the white pulp of the spleen that are associated with naturally acquired visceral leishmaniasis.