Anatomical characteristics of the major salivary glands of puma (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771) / Características anatômicas das glândulas salivares maiores da onça parda (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771)

The morphological knowledge of the salivary glands in wild species is fundamental, since these studiescan be used as conservation strategies, clinical treatments and the preservation of species threatened with extinction. Thus, the aim of the study was to anatomically describe the larger salivary glands: parotid, mandibular, sublingual and molar of the jaguar. For this, two specimens of puma (Puma concolor) were used, after death by road traffic accident, donated by the Clinical Surgical Service Department of the Veterinary Hospital Dr. Halim Atique (UNIRP). The animals were fixed with 10% aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, descriptively analyzed and photographed. Morphologically, the parotid gland is grayish-yellow in color, distinctly lobulated, and has a semilunar shape. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and at its ventral end we observe the parotid duct. The mandibular gland presents a slightly rounded outline, a grayish color and its surface is covered by a capsule of connective tissue. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and we find the mandibular duct at its ventral end. The monostomatic sublingual gland is located on the rostral border of the mandibular gland and it is covered by the mandibular lymph nodes. The molar gland is a yellowish-gray membranous protuberance, elongated, with rectangular shape and it lies dorsally to the labial commissure. Based on the dissections, we conclude that the morphological and topographic characteristics of salivary glands of puma follow the same structural pattern described for other species of carnivorous mammals (domestic and wild).(AU)

O conhecimento morfológico das glândulas salivares em espécies silvestres é fundamental, pois podem ser utilizadas como estratégias de conservação, tratamentos clínicos e preservação de espécies ameaçadas de extinção. Dessa forma, o objetivo do estudo foi descrever anatomicamente as glândulas salivares maiores: parótida, mandibular, sublingual e molar da onça-parda. Para isso, foram utilizados dois espécimes de onça-parda (Puma concolor), após morte por atropelamento, doados pelo Setor de Atendimento Clínico Cirúrgico de Animais Selvagens (SACCAS) do Hospital Veterinário Dr. HalimAtique (UNIRP). Os animais foram fixados com solução aquosa de formol a 10%, dissecados, analisados descritivamente e fotografados. Morfologicamente, a glândula parótida possui uma coloração cinza amarelada, é distintamente lobulada e apresenta um formato semilunar. Essa glândula localiza-se na região póstero-dorsal da face, e na sua extremidade ventral observamos o ducto parotídeo. A glândula mandibular apresenta um contorno levemente arredondado, coloração acinzentada e sua superfície é revestida por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo. Essa glândula situa-se na região póstero-ventral da face e na sua extremidade ventral encontramos o ducto mandibular. A glândula sublingual monostomática está localizada na borda rostral da glândula mandibular e apresenta-se coberta pelos linfonodos mandibulares. A glândula molar é uma protuberância membranosa de coloração cinza amarelada, formato retangular alongado que fica situada ventralmente a comissura labial. Fundamentado nas dissecações, concluímos que as características morfológicas e topográficas das glândulas salivares da onça-parda seguem o mesmo padrão estrutural descrito para outras espécies de mamíferos carnívoros (domésticos e silvestres).(AU)

Oxidative stress, biotransformation enzymes and histopathological alterations in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to new and used automotive lubricant oil.

Lubricant oils are among oil-based products that are not fully consumed during its use, thereby producing non-biodegradable residues which can cause contamination of natural systems. This study evaluated the toxicity of new and used lubricating oil (0.01 and 0.1 mL L-1) in adult Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), by assessing the effects on oxidative stress, biotransformation enzymes (liver and gills), and histopathological alterations on hepatic and pancreatic tissues after 3 and 7 days of exposure. Results showed that 3-days exposure to 0.1 mL L-1 of used and new lubricating oil increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in liver of O. niloticus, respectively. In gills, catalase (CAT) was decreased in fish exposed to 0.1 mL L-1 of non-used oil after 3 days, but pronounced increases in CAT was detected after 7 days-exposure to both new and used oil. Shorter exposure to both concentrations of new and used oil also raised glutathione-S-transferase activity (GST) in gills. Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) was induced in liver of fish exposed to 0.1 mL L-1of used oil after 3 and 7 days, however a reduced response of this enzyme was detected in gills of animals from both oil treatments. In vitro analysis showed that hepatic EROD was inhibited by lubricating oil exposures, with more pronounced responses in treatments containing used oil. Hepatic lesions, such as cytoplasmic vacuolization, nuclei abnormally, changes in hepatocytes shape, steatosis, cholestasis, eosinophilic inclusions and necrosis were mainly increased by 7 days exposure to used lubricating oil at higher concentration.

Anatomical characteristics of the major salivary glands of puma (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771) / Características anatômicas das glândulas salivares maiores da onça parda (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771)

The morphological knowledge of the salivary glands in wild species is fundamental, since these studiescan be used as conservation strategies, clinical treatments and the preservation of species threatened with extinction. Thus, the aim of the study was to anatomically describe the larger salivary glands: parotid, mandibular, sublingual and molar of the jaguar. For this, two specimens of puma (Puma concolor) were used, after death by road traffic accident, donated by the Clinical Surgical Service Department of the Veterinary Hospital Dr. Halim Atique (UNIRP). The animals were fixed with 10% aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, descriptively analyzed and photographed. Morphologically, the parotid gland is grayish-yellow in color, distinctly lobulated, and has a semilunar shape. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and at its ventral end we observe the parotid duct. The mandibular gland presents a slightly rounded outline, a grayish color and its surface is covered by a capsule of connective tissue. This gland is located in the posterolateral region of the face and we find the mandibular duct at its ventral end. The monostomatic sublingual gland is located on the rostral border of the mandibular gland and it is covered by the mandibular lymph nodes. The molar gland is a yellowish-gray membranous protuberance, elongated, with rectangular shape and it lies dorsally to the labial commissure. Based on the dissections, we conclude that the morphological and topographic characteristics of salivary glands of puma follow the same structural pattern described for other species of carnivorous mammals (domestic and wild).

O conhecimento morfológico das glândulas salivares em espécies silvestres é fundamental, pois podem ser utilizadas como estratégias de conservação, tratamentos clínicos e preservação de espécies ameaçadas de extinção. Dessa forma, o objetivo do estudo foi descrever anatomicamente as glândulas salivares maiores: parótida, mandibular, sublingual e molar da onça-parda. Para isso, foram utilizados dois espécimes de onça-parda (Puma concolor), após morte por atropelamento, doados pelo Setor de Atendimento Clínico Cirúrgico de Animais Selvagens (SACCAS) do Hospital Veterinário Dr. HalimAtique (UNIRP). Os animais foram fixados com solução aquosa de formol a 10%, dissecados, analisados descritivamente e fotografados. Morfologicamente, a glândula parótida possui uma coloração cinza amarelada, é distintamente lobulada e apresenta um formato semilunar. Essa glândula localiza-se na região póstero-dorsal da face, e na sua extremidade ventral observamos o ducto parotídeo. A glândula mandibular apresenta um contorno levemente arredondado, coloração acinzentada e sua superfície é revestida por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo. Essa glândula situa-se na região póstero-ventral da face e na sua extremidade ventral encontramos o ducto mandibular. A glândula sublingual monostomática está localizada na borda rostral da glândula mandibular e apresenta-se coberta pelos linfonodos mandibulares. A glândula molar é uma protuberância membranosa de coloração cinza amarelada, formato retangular alongado que fica situada ventralmente a comissura labial. Fundamentado nas dissecações, concluímos que as características morfológicas e topográficas das glândulas salivares da onça-parda seguem o mesmo padrão estrutural descrito para outras espécies de mamíferos carnívoros (domésticos e silvestres).

Use of 17beta-estradiol for Leporinus microcephalus feminization / Utilização de 17beta-estradiol para feminização de Leporinus macrocephalus

The aim of the study was to establish an effective feminization protocol for Leporinus macrocephalus using the 17-estradiol (E2). Thus, one hundred and fifty fingerlings with 50 days old post-hatch were randomly distributed in fifteen experimental tanks of 90L and fed for 60 days on a diet supplemented with 50 or 100mg Kg-1 of E2. At the end of the experiment, sex ratios were determined through histological and macroscopic observations. Histologically, the differentiated ovaries were evidenced by the presence of numerous nests of oogonia and oocytes in primary growth stage. The female ratio (73%) for the group treated with 100mg Kg-1 E2 was significantly higher than those of control (52%) and 50mg Kg-1 treatment (48%) groups. These results indicate that 100 mg Kg-1 E2 administered for 60 days was the most effective treatment for 50 days old L. macrocephalus post larval feminization. In conclusion, the successful sex control can be achieved through dietary hormonal manipulation. However, future studies should be conducted to evaluate the economic feasibility of this technique.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do 17-estradiol (E2) na feminização de Leporinus macrocephalus. Dessa forma, 150 alevinos com 50 dias de idade foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 15 tanques experimentais de 90 L e alimentados por 60 dias com dieta suplementada com 50 ou 100 mg kg-1 de E2. No final do experimento, as proporções sexuais foram determinadas por meio de observações histológicas e macroscópicas. Histologicamente, os ovários diferenciados foram evidenciados pela presença de numerosos ninhos de oogonia e oócitos em fase crescimento primário. O percentual de fêmeas (77%) do grupo tratado com 100 mg kg-1 E2 foi significativamente maior comparado ao grupo controle (52%) e ao grupo 50 mg kg-1 (48%). Os resultados obtidos neste estudo inicial indicaram que 100 mg kg-1 de E2, administrados durante 60 dias, foi o tratamento mais efetivo na feminização de L. macrocephalus com 50 dias de idade. No entanto, estudos futuros com variações no intervalo de aplicações podem trazer ainda melhores resultados.(AU)

Use of 17beta-estradiol for Leporinus microcephalus feminization / Utilização de 17beta-estradiol para feminização de Leporinus macrocephalus

The aim of the study was to establish an effective feminization protocol for Leporinus macrocephalus using the 17-estradiol (E2). Thus, one hundred and fifty fingerlings with 50 days old post-hatch were randomly distributed in fifteen experimental tanks of 90L and fed for 60 days on a diet supplemented with 50 or 100mg Kg-1 of E2. At the end of the experiment, sex ratios were determined through histological and macroscopic observations. Histologically, the differentiated ovaries were evidenced by the presence of numerous nests of oogonia and oocytes in primary growth stage. The female ratio (73%) for the group treated with 100mg Kg-1 E2 was significantly higher than those of control (52%) and 50mg Kg-1 treatment (48%) groups. These results indicate that 100 mg Kg-1 E2 administered for 60 days was the most effective treatment for 50 days old L. macrocephalus post larval feminization. In conclusion, the successful sex control can be achieved through dietary hormonal manipulation. However, future studies should be conducted to evaluate the economic feasibility of this technique.

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do 17-estradiol (E2) na feminização de Leporinus macrocephalus. Dessa forma, 150 alevinos com 50 dias de idade foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 15 tanques experimentais de 90 L e alimentados por 60 dias com dieta suplementada com 50 ou 100 mg kg-1 de E2. No final do experimento, as proporções sexuais foram determinadas por meio de observações histológicas e macroscópicas. Histologicamente, os ovários diferenciados foram evidenciados pela presença de numerosos ninhos de oogonia e oócitos em fase crescimento primário. O percentual de fêmeas (77%) do grupo tratado com 100 mg kg-1 E2 foi significativamente maior comparado ao grupo controle (52%) e ao grupo 50 mg kg-1 (48%). Os resultados obtidos neste estudo inicial indicaram que 100 mg kg-1 de E2, administrados durante 60 dias, foi o tratamento mais efetivo na feminização de L. macrocephalus com 50 dias de idade. No entanto, estudos futuros com variações no intervalo de aplicações podem trazer ainda melhores resultados.

Variação morfológica no padrão lobar e nas fissuras dos pulmões: relato de caso / Morphological variation in the lobar pattern and in the fissures of the lungs: a case report

Modelo do estudo: Relato de caso. Importância do problema: Lobos e fissuras acessórias nos pulmões podem induzir a erros de interpretação e diagnóstico, além de favorecer a disseminação de patologias como a pneumonia para lobos adjacentes. Dessa forma, a constatação dessas alterações anatômicas pode colaborar em diagnósticos clínicos e procedimentos cirúrgicos. Comentários: Relatamos um caso raro de modificação anatômica nos lobos e fis-suras dos pulmões. O pulmão esquerdo exibia um lobo médio acessório e uma fissura horizontal completa. Por outro lado, o pulmão direito apresentava duas fissuras acessórias incompletas situadas inferiormente na face costal do lobo médio. Além disso, observamos que o hilo do pulmão esquerdo continha dois brônquios lobares (superior e inferior), um brônquio lobar acessório e três artérias pulmonares. O conhecimento das variações anatômicas aqui relatadas é fundamental, pois auxiliam os profissionais da saúde nos diagnósticos e nas decisões terapêuticas e cirúrgicas.(AU)

Study: Case Report. Importance: Lobos and accessory fissures in the lungs can induce errors of interpretation and diagnosis, as well as favor the spread of pathologies such as pneumonia to adjacent lobes. Thus, the confirmation of these anatomical alterations can collaborate in clinical diagnoses and surgical procedures. Comments: We report a rare case of anatomical variation in the lobes and fissures of the lungs. The left lung showed an accessory middle lobe and a complete horizontal fissure. On the other hand, the right lung had two incomplete accessory fissures located inferiorly in the costal face of the middle lobe. In addition, we observed that the left lung hilum contained two lobar bronchi (upper and lower), one accessory lobar bronchus and three pulmonary arteries. Knowledge of the anatomical variations reported here is fundamental, as they help health professionals in diagnoses and therapeutic and surgical decisions (AU)

Effects of methylphenidate on the aggressive behavior, serotonin and dopamine levels, and dopamine-related gene transcription in brain of male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

The occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment has increased considerably in the last decades, causing negative biochemical, physiological, and behavioral effects in aquatic organisms. In this study, we evaluated the effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on the aggressive behavior, dopamine-related gene transcript levels, monoamine levels, and carboxylesterase transcript levels and activity in the brain of male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Carboxylesterase activity was also measured in the liver and gills. Fish were exposed for 5 days to MPH at 20 and 100 ng L-1. Fish exposed to 100 ng L-1 of MPH showed increased aggressiveness and decreased dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) levels. No changes were observed in plasma testosterone levels and in the transcript levels of D1 and D2 dopamine receptors, dopamine transporter (DAT), and carboxylesterase 2 (CES2). Exposure to 100 ng L-1 of MPH caused a decrease in the transcript levels of carboxylesterase 3 (CES3) and an increase in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), while exposure to 20 ng L-1 of MPH increased the transcript levels of D5 dopamine receptor. Carboxylesterase activity was unchanged in the brain and liver and increased in the gills of fish exposed to 20 ng L-1. These results indicate that MPH at 100 ng L-1 increases aggressiveness in Nile tilapia, possibly due to a decrease in 5-HT levels in the brain and alterations in dopamine levels and dopamine-related genes.

Anatomical characterization of the digestive system of the pufferfish (Chilomycterus spinosus spinosus)

Descriptive studies of the fish digestive system are fundamental because they provide information on the biology of the species. Thus, the objective of this study was to morphologically describe the digestive system of the pufferfish, Chilomycterus spinosus spinosus. For this, adult specimens of pufferfish (n = 10) of both sexes were used. The animals were fixed with 10% aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, analyzed descriptively and photographed. The results demonstrate that the pufferfish has a morphologically modified digestive system, which is adapted to the defense behavior. This species presents a pouch-shaped diverticulum, that is called abdominal pouch, which allows the expansion of the celomatic cavity and the temporary storage of food. Although it is used to store food, macroscopically the abdominal pouch does not show gastric folds. However, this absence is compensated by a small intestine containing innumerable villi.

Anatomical characterization of the digestive system of the pufferfish (Chilomycterus spinosus spinosus)

Descriptive studies of the fish digestive system are fundamental because they provide information on the biology of the species. Thus, the objective of this study was to morphologically describe the digestive system of the pufferfish, Chilomycterus spinosus spinosus. For this, adult specimens of pufferfish (n = 10) of both sexes were used. The animals were fixed with 10% aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, analyzed descriptively and photographed. The results demonstrate that the pufferfish has a morphologically modified digestive system, which is adapted to the defense behavior. This species presents a pouch-shaped diverticulum, that is called abdominal pouch, which allows the expansion of the celomatic cavity and the temporary storage of food. Although it is used to store food, macroscopically the abdominal pouch does not show gastric folds. However, this absence is compensated by a small intestine containing innumerable villi.(AU)

Leporinus elongatus induced spawning using carp pituitary extract or mammalian GnRH analogue combined with dopamine receptor antagonists

Several studies have been developed to support the replacement of the crude carp pituitary extract (CPE) by synthetic products for induced reproduction of South American rheophilic species. However, results have been quite heterogeneous and there is no consensus or a routine use of synthetic products in these species. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the ovulatory process in L. elongatus using different protocols of hormonal induction. Thus, fifteen wild mature females maintained at the Experimental Fish Station, Salto Grande, SP, Brazil were submitted to three different hormonal treatments: CPE (fractioned dose: 0.5 and 5.0 mg kg-1 ); mGnRHa (single dose: 3.5 µg kg-1 ) and mGnRHa (single dose: 5.0 µg kg-1 ). The spawning rate and absolute fecundity were similar among the treatments, but fertility rates were higher for CPE treatment (23.60 ± 9.40) then for mGnRHa treatments (close to or zero zero). Although females ovulated in all treatments, none of them provided viable embryos, showing hatching rates close to zero or zero. Both mGnRHa treatments were more potent for inducing the ovulatory process then CPE treatment, which was evidenced by the fact that the formers showed higher volume density of postovulatory follicles (POF). Accordingly, E2 and 17α-OHP plasma levels were higher for the mGnRHa treated females compared to the CPE one at the time of ovulation. In this study we confirmed previous scientific evidence that, regardless of whether promoting ovulation, the use of conventional CPE and GnRH doses are not appropriate for some South American migratory species, due to the nonattainment of viable embryos. Moreover, we have brought new information about the relationship between reproductive performance and gonadal steroids concentrations using different hormonal therapies, contributing to understand the reasons for Leporinus elongatus embryo loss in induced spawning.(AU)

Leporinus elongatus induced spawning using carp pituitary extract or mammalian GnRH analogue combined with dopamine receptor antagonists

Several studies have been developed to support the replacement of the crude carp pituitary extract (CPE) by synthetic products for induced reproduction of South American rheophilic species. However, results have been quite heterogeneous and there is no consensus or a routine use of synthetic products in these species. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the ovulatory process in L. elongatus using different protocols of hormonal induction. Thus, fifteen wild mature females maintained at the Experimental Fish Station, Salto Grande, SP, Brazil were submitted to three different hormonal treatments: CPE (fractioned dose: 0.5 and 5.0 mg kg-1 ); mGnRHa (single dose: 3.5 µg kg-1 ) and mGnRHa (single dose: 5.0 µg kg-1 ). The spawning rate and absolute fecundity were similar among the treatments, but fertility rates were higher for CPE treatment (23.60 ± 9.40) then for mGnRHa treatments (close to or zero zero). Although females ovulated in all treatments, none of them provided viable embryos, showing hatching rates close to zero or zero. Both mGnRHa treatments were more potent for inducing the ovulatory process then CPE treatment, which was evidenced by the fact that the formers showed higher volume density of postovulatory follicles (POF). Accordingly, E2 and 17α-OHP plasma levels were higher for the mGnRHa treated females compared to the CPE one at the time of ovulation. In this study we confirmed previous scientific evidence that, regardless of whether promoting ovulation, the use of conventional CPE and GnRH doses are not appropriate for some South American migratory species, due to the nonattainment of viable embryos. Moreover, we have brought new information about the relationship between reproductive performance and gonadal steroids concentrations using different hormonal therapies, contributing to understand the reasons for Leporinus elongatus embryo loss in induced spawning.

Anatomical description of the salivary glands: parotid, mandibular and sublingual of the crab-eating-fox (Cerdocyon thous) / Descrição anatômica das glândulas salivares: parótida, mandibular e sublingual do cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous)

Descriptive anatomical studies of wild animals are fundamental, since they providesubsidies for the elaboration of more adequate techniques of sustained management, contributing to thepreservation of species threatened with extinction. Thus, the aim of the study is to anatomically describethe salivary glands: parotid, mandibular and sublingual of the crab-eating-fox (Cerdocyon thous). For thispurpose, three carcasses of crab-eating-fox donated by Ibama were used. The animals were fixed with 10%aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, analyzed descriptively and photographed. It was found that theparotid gland of the crab-eating-fox is located caudally to the branch of the mandible, in the rostroventralmargin of the auricular cartilage. The mandibular gland is located in the atlantal fossa and extends to thebasi-hyoid bone. The sublingual gland of the crab-eating-fox shows two parts: monostomatic andpolystomatic. The monostomatics are located in the occipitomandibular region of the digastric muscle andthe portion polysomatic is situated between the tunica mucosa of the oral cavity and the buccinator muscle.Based on the results, we conclude that the salivary glands of the crab-eating-fox are found distributed inthe facial region and present anatomical characteristics that follow the same structural pattern described forother species of carnivorous mammals.

Estudos anatômicos descritivos de animais silvestres são fundamentais, pois fornecemsubsídios para a elaboração de técnicas mais adequadas de manejo sustentado, contribuindo com apreservação de espécies ameaçadas de extinção. Dessa forma, o objetivo do estudo é descreveranatomicamente as glândulas salivares: parótida, mandibular e sublingual do cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyonthous). Para isso, foram utilizadas três carcaças de cachorro-do-mato doados pelo Ibama. Os animais foramfixados com solução aquosa de formol a 10%, dissecados, analisados descritivamente e fotografados.Constatou-se que a glândula parótida do cachorro-do-mato situa-se caudalmente ao ramo da mandíbula,disposta na margem rostroventral da cartilagem auricular. A glândula mandibular está situada na fossaatlantal e estende-se até o osso basi-hióide. A glândula sublingual do cachorro-do-mato apresenta duasporções: monostomática e polistomática. A monostomática situa-se na região occiptomandibular domúsculo digástrico e a polistomática entre a túnica mucosa da cavidade oral e o músculo bucinador. Combase nos resultados concluímos que as glândulas salivares do cachorro-do-mato são encontradasdistribuídas pela região facial e apresentam características anatômicas que seguem o mesmo padrãoestrutural descrito para outras espécies de mamíferos carnívoros.

Leporinus elongatus induced spawning using carp pituitary extract or mammalian GnRH analogue combined with dopamine receptor antagonists.

Several studies have been developed to support the replacement of the crude carp pituitary extract (CPE) by synthetic products for induced reproduction of South American rheophilic species. However, results have been quite heterogeneous and there is no consensus or a routine use of synthetic products in these species. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the ovulatory process in L. elongatus using different protocols of hormonal induction. Thus, fifteen wild mature females maintained at the Experimental Fish Station, Salto Grande, SP, Brazil were submitted to three different hormonal treatments: CPE (fractioned dose: 0.5 and 5.0 mg kg-1); mGnRHa (single dose: 3.5 µg kg-1) and mGnRHa (single dose: 5.0 µg kg-1). The spawning rate and absolute fecundity were similar among the treatments, but fertility rates were higher for CPE treatment (23.60 ± 9.40) then for mGnRHa treatments (close to or zero zero). Although females ovulated in all treatments, none of them provided viable embryos, showing hatching rates close to zero or zero. Both mGnRHa treatments were more potent for inducing the ovulatory process then CPE treatment, which was evidenced by the fact that the formers showed higher volume density of postovulatory follicles (POF). Accordingly, E2 and 17α-OHP plasma levels were higher for the mGnRHa treated females compared to the CPE one at the time of ovulation. In this study we confirmed previous scientific evidence that, regardless of whether promoting ovulation, the use of conventional CPE and GnRH doses are not appropriate for some South American migratory species, due to the non-attainment of viable embryos. Moreover, we have brought new information about the relationship between reproductive performance and gonadal steroids concentrations using different hormonal therapies, contributing to understand the reasons for Leporinus elongatus embryo loss in induced spawning.

Estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects of the herbicide tebuthiuron in male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

Tebuthiuron is a phenylurea herbicide widely used in agriculture that can reach the aquatic environments, possibly posing negative effects to the aquatic biota. Phenylurea herbicides, such as diuron, are known to cause estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects in fish, but no such effects were yet reported for tebuthiuron exposure. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate if tebuthiuron, at environmentally relevant concentrations (100 and 200ng/L) and after 25days of exposure have estrogenic and/or anti-androgenic effects on male of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), through the evaluation of plasmatic testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) levels, brain aromatase (CYP19) levels (western-blot), and by evaluating the histology of the testicles. When compared to the control group, plasmatic T levels decreased about 76% in the animals exposed to 200ng/L of tebuthiuron, while E2 levels increased about 94%, which could be related to a significant increase (77%) in CYP19A1 levels, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of androgens into estrogens. Histological analyses of the testicles also demonstrated that tebuthiuron at both tested concentrations caused a decrease in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and in the diameter of the lumen. Therefore, the gonadosomatic index (GSI) was reduced by 36% % in the animals exposed 200ng/L to tebuthiuron. Indeed, the relative frequency of spermatocytes and spermatids increased respectively 73% (200ng/L) and 61% (100ng/L) in the tebuthiuron exposed animals, possibly due to the impairment of sperm release into the lumen, that was decreased 93% (200ng/L) in the treated animals compared to the control. These results confirm that tebuthiuron causes estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects in Nile tilapias at environmentally relevant concentrations.

Diuron metabolites act as endocrine disruptors and alter aggressive behavior in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

Diuron and its biodegradation metabolites were recently reported to cause alterations in plasma steroid hormone concentrations with subsequent impacts on reproductive development in fish. Since steroid hormone biosynthesis is regulated through neurotransmission of the central nervous system (CNS), studies were conducted to determine whether neurotransmitters that control hormone biosynthesis could be affected after diuron and diuron metabolites treatment. As the same neurotransmitters and steroid hormones regulate behavioral outcomes, aggression was also evaluated in male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Male tilapias were exposed for 10 days to waterborne diuron and the metabolites 3,4-dichloroaniline (DCA), 3,4-dichlorophenyl-N-methylurea (DCPMU), at nominal concentrations of 100 ng L-1. In contrast to Diuron, DCA and DCPMU significantly diminished plasma testosterone concentrations (39.4% and 36.8%, respectively) and reduced dopamine levels in the brain (47.1% and 44.2%, respectively). In addition, concentrations of the stress steroid, cortisol were increased after DCA (71.0%) and DCPMU (57.8-%) exposure. A significant decrease in aggressive behavior was also observed in animals treated with the metabolites DCA (50.9%) and DCPMU (68.8%). These results indicate that biotransformation of diuron to active metabolites alter signaling pathways of the CNS which may impact androgen and the stress response as well as behavior necessary for social dominance, growth, and reproduction.

Anatomical description of the salivary glands: parotid, mandibular and sublingual of the crab-eating-fox (Cerdocyon thous) / Descrição anatômica das glândulas salivares: parótida, mandibular e sublingual do cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous)

Descriptive anatomical studies of wild animals are fundamental, since they providesubsidies for the elaboration of more adequate techniques of sustained management, contributing to thepreservation of species threatened with extinction. Thus, the aim of the study is to anatomically describethe salivary glands: parotid, mandibular and sublingual of the crab-eating-fox (Cerdocyon thous). For thispurpose, three carcasses of crab-eating-fox donated by Ibama were used. The animals were fixed with 10%aqueous formaldehyde solution, dissected, analyzed descriptively and photographed. It was found that theparotid gland of the crab-eating-fox is located caudally to the branch of the mandible, in the rostroventralmargin of the auricular cartilage. The mandibular gland is located in the atlantal fossa and extends to thebasi-hyoid bone. The sublingual gland of the crab-eating-fox shows two parts: monostomatic andpolystomatic. The monostomatics are located in the occipitomandibular region of the digastric muscle andthe portion polysomatic is situated between the tunica mucosa of the oral cavity and the buccinator muscle.Based on the results, we conclude that the salivary glands of the crab-eating-fox are found distributed inthe facial region and present anatomical characteristics that follow the same structural pattern described forother species of carnivorous mammals.(AU)

Estudos anatômicos descritivos de animais silvestres são fundamentais, pois fornecemsubsídios para a elaboração de técnicas mais adequadas de manejo sustentado, contribuindo com apreservação de espécies ameaçadas de extinção. Dessa forma, o objetivo do estudo é descreveranatomicamente as glândulas salivares: parótida, mandibular e sublingual do cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyonthous). Para isso, foram utilizadas três carcaças de cachorro-do-mato doados pelo Ibama. Os animais foramfixados com solução aquosa de formol a 10%, dissecados, analisados descritivamente e fotografados.Constatou-se que a glândula parótida do cachorro-do-mato situa-se caudalmente ao ramo da mandíbula,disposta na margem rostroventral da cartilagem auricular. A glândula mandibular está situada na fossaatlantal e estende-se até o osso basi-hióide. A glândula sublingual do cachorro-do-mato apresenta duasporções: monostomática e polistomática. A monostomática situa-se na região occiptomandibular domúsculo digástrico e a polistomática entre a túnica mucosa da cavidade oral e o músculo bucinador. Combase nos resultados concluímos que as glândulas salivares do cachorro-do-mato são encontradasdistribuídas pela região facial e apresentam características anatômicas que seguem o mesmo padrãoestrutural descrito para outras espécies de mamíferos carnívoros.(AU)

Estrogenic activities of diuron metabolites in female Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

Some endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can alter the estrogenic activities of the organism by directly interacting with estrogen receptors (ER) or indirectly through the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Recent studies in male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) indicated that diuron may have anti-androgenic activity augmented by biotransformation. In this study, the effects of diuron and three of its metabolites were evaluated in female tilapia. Sexually mature female fish were exposed for 25 days to diuron, as well as to its metabolites 3,4-dichloroaniline (DCA), 3,4-dichlorophenylurea (DCPU) and 3,4-dichlorophenyl-N-methylurea (DCPMU), at concentrations of 100 ng/L. Diuron metabolites caused increases in E2 plasma levels, gonadosomatic indices and in the percentage of final vitellogenic oocytes. Moreover, diuron and its metabolites caused a decrease in germinative cells. Significant differences in plasma concentrations of the estrogen precursor and gonadal regulator17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17α-OHP) were not observed. These results show that diuron metabolites had estrogenic effects potentially mediated through enhanced estradiol biosynthesis and accelerated the ovarian development of O. niloticus females.

Caracterização das proporções anatômicas e tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal do apaiari e do acará-bandeira / Gastrointestinal tract evaluations for oscar and angelfish: anatomic proportions and transit time

This study aimed to characterize the digestive tract anatomic and the gastrointestinal transit time of oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) and angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), relating the results with the feeding habit. For this purpose two experiments were conducted. First the stomach somatic index and the intestinal coefficient were evaluated for the two species. In the second experiment the gastrointestinal transit time was evaluated. The stomach somatic index averages were higher (P 0,05) for the oscar (0.54 ± 0.14) compared to the angelfish (0.19 ± 0.05). On the other hand the intestinal coefficient was lower (P 0,05) in the oscar (0.46 ± 0.07) than in the angelfish (0.99 ± 0.22). Furthermore, the oscar the gastrointestinal transit time (10 h) was faster (P 0,05) in relation to the angelfish (12 h). From the results is possible to conclude that the oscar digestive tract was more adapted for carnivorous habits, and the angelfish approaches more of a generalist omnivore. Moreover, variations in the size of the digestive system organs could affect the gastrointestinal transit time.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as proporções anatômicas do trato digestório e o tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal do apaiari (Astronotus ocellatus) e do acará-bandeira (Pterophyllum scalare) e relacionar os resultados com o hábito alimentar das duas espécies. Foram realizados dois experimentos. No primeiro experimento foi avaliado o índice estomagossomático e o coeficiente intestinal, e no segundo, o tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal. O índice estomagossomático foi maior (P 0,05) no apaiari (0,54 ± 0,14) em comparação com o registrado no acará-bandeira (0,19 ± 0,05). Por outro lado, o coeficiente intestinal foi menor (P 0,05) no apaiari (0,46 ± 0,07) em relação ao do acará-bandeira (0,99 ± 0,22). O tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal foi menor (P 0,05) no apaiari (10 h) em comparação com o observado no acará-bandeira (12 h). Pelas características do trato digestório das espécies, é possível concluir que o apaiari está mais adaptado para um hábito alimentar carnívoro e que o acará-bandeira se aproxima mais de um onívoro generalista. Além disso, as variações no tamanho dos órgãos do sistema digestório podem ter influência no tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal.(AU)

Caracterização das proporções anatômicas e tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal do apaiari e do acará-bandeira / Gastrointestinal tract evaluations for oscar and angelfish: anatomic proportions and transit time

This study aimed to characterize the digestive tract anatomic and the gastrointestinal transit time of oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) and angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), relating the results with the feeding habit. For this purpose two experiments were conducted. First the stomach somatic index and the intestinal coefficient were evaluated for the two species. In the second experiment the gastrointestinal transit time was evaluated. The stomach somatic index averages were higher (P 0,05) for the oscar (0.54 ± 0.14) compared to the angelfish (0.19 ± 0.05). On the other hand the intestinal coefficient was lower (P 0,05) in the oscar (0.46 ± 0.07) than in the angelfish (0.99 ± 0.22). Furthermore, the oscar the gastrointestinal transit time (10 h) was faster (P 0,05) in relation to the angelfish (12 h). From the results is possible to conclude that the oscar digestive tract was more adapted for carnivorous habits, and the angelfish approaches more of a generalist omnivore. Moreover, variations in the size of the digestive system organs could affect the gastrointestinal transit time.

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as proporções anatômicas do trato digestório e o tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal do apaiari (Astronotus ocellatus) e do acará-bandeira (Pterophyllum scalare) e relacionar os resultados com o hábito alimentar das duas espécies. Foram realizados dois experimentos. No primeiro experimento foi avaliado o índice estomagossomático e o coeficiente intestinal, e no segundo, o tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal. O índice estomagossomático foi maior (P 0,05) no apaiari (0,54 ± 0,14) em comparação com o registrado no acará-bandeira (0,19 ± 0,05). Por outro lado, o coeficiente intestinal foi menor (P 0,05) no apaiari (0,46 ± 0,07) em relação ao do acará-bandeira (0,99 ± 0,22). O tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal foi menor (P 0,05) no apaiari (10 h) em comparação com o observado no acará-bandeira (12 h). Pelas características do trato digestório das espécies, é possível concluir que o apaiari está mais adaptado para um hábito alimentar carnívoro e que o acará-bandeira se aproxima mais de um onívoro generalista. Além disso, as variações no tamanho dos órgãos do sistema digestório podem ter influência no tempo de trânsito gastrointestinal.

Anti-androgenic activities of diuron and its metabolites in male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

Diuron (3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea) is a widely used herbicide which has been frequently detected in surface waters throughout the world. In vivo bioassay guided fractionation studies indicated that diuron may have estrogenic activity augmented by biotransformation. This study evaluated the effects of diuron and three of its metabolites on plasma hormone concentrations and spermatogenesis of the freshwater fish Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Sexually mature male fish were exposed for 25 days to diuron, as well to its metabolites 3,4-dichloroaniline (DCA), 3,4-dichlorophenylurea (DCPU) and 3,4-dichlorophenyl-N-methylurea (DCPMU), at concentrations of 200ng/L. Testosterone levels were decreased by diuron, but had limited effects on gonadal histology. Diuron metabolites, however, caused significant decreases in testosterone and in 11-ketotestosterone, gonadosomatic index, diameter of seminiferous tubules and in the mean percentages of germ cells (spermatids and spermatozoa). We conclude that these metabolites have antiandrogenic activity to male Nile tilapia, potentially causing reproductive impairment in male fish.