Modified Procedure for Simple and Rapid Collection of Zebrafish Fluid Samples for Biochemical Analyses.

This study addresses the challenge of collecting blood samples from zebrafish for biochemical analysis. Traditional methods are cumbersome due to low blood flow and rapid coagulation. Based on a previously published technique, we simplified the process by applying an anticoagulant solution directly to the incision site. The modified protocol involves immersing the fish in an ice bath, making a cross-sectional incision, and immediately applying anticoagulant solution. Centrifugation of the specimens provides a streamlined and efficient approach to zebrafish fluid sample collection, compatible with classic biochemical marker analyses.

NanoLC-EI-MS: Perspectives in Biochemical Analysis.

Although LC-MS with atmospheric pressure ionization (API) sources is the primary technique used in modern bioanalytical studies, electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI-MS) can provide some substantial advantages over it. EI-MS is a matrix effect-free technique that provides reproducible and comparable mass spectra, serving as a compound fingerprint for easy identification through automated comparison with spectral libraries. Leveraging EI-MS in biochemical studies can yield critical analytical benefits for targeted and untargeted analyses. However, to fully utilize EI-MS for heavy and non-volatile molecules, a new technology that enables the coupling of liquid chromatography with EI-MS is needed. Recent advancements in nanoLC have addressed the compatibility issues between LC and EI-MS, and innovative interfacing strategies such as Direct-EI, liquid electron ionization (LEI), and Cold-EI have extended the application of EI-MS beyond the determination of volatile organic molecules. This review provides an overview of the latest developments in nanoLC-EI-MS interfacing technologies, discussing their scope and limitations. Additionally, selected examples of nanoLC-EI-MS applications in the field of biochemical analysis are presented, highlighting the potential prospects and benefits that the establishment of this technique can bring to this field.

Biochemical Analysis of Urine Samples from Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients without Renal Dysfunction Using Spectrophotometry and Raman Spectroscopy Techniques Aiming Classification and Diagnosis.

The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative biochemical analysis between conventional spectrophotometry and Raman spectroscopy, techniques used for diagnoses, on the urine of healthy (CT) and diabetic and hypertensive patients (DM&HBP). Urine from 40 subjects (20 in the CT group and 20 in the DM&HBP group) was examined in a dispersive Raman spectrometer (an 830 nm excitation and a 350 mW power). The mean Raman spectra between both groups showed a significant difference in peaks of glucose; exploratory analysis by principal component analysis (PCA) identified spectral differences between the groups, with higher peaks of glucose and proteins in the DM&HBP group. A partial least squares (PLS) regression model estimated by the Raman data indicated the concentrations of urea, creatinine, glucose, phosphate, and total protein; creatinine and glucose were the biomarkers that presented the best correlation coefficient (r) between the two techniques analyzed (r = 0.68 and r = 0.98, respectively), both with eight latent variables (LVs) and a root mean square error of cross-validation (RMSecv) of 3.6 and 5.1 mmol/L (41 and 92 mg/dL), respectively. Discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) using the entire Raman spectra was able to differentiate the samples of the groups in the study, with a higher accuracy (81.5%) compared to the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) models using the concentration values of the spectrometric analysis (60.0%) and the concentrations predicted by the PLS regression (69.8%). Results indicated that spectral models based on PLS applied to Raman spectra may be used to distinguish subjects with diabetes and blood hypertension from healthy ones in urinalysis aimed at population screening.

Hematological and biochemical values in Breton breed horses in Brasília-DF.

Due to the scarcity of information on Breton horses, the objective was to study hematobiochemical values of this breed. Blood samples were collected from 29 Bretons, males and females, of different ages, in Brasília-DF, distributed into groups, according to age, without distinction of sex (G1): animals from 4 to 9 years old (n=16) and (G2): from 10 to 26 years old (n=13). The horses were also distributed into males and females for comparisons between the sexes. Values for red blood cells, hemoglobin, creatinine, and urea were statistically higher in females. Fibrinogen was higher in males. Lymphocyte values were higher in G1, but mean corpuscular volume, monocytes, neutrophils, and GGT in G2 were higher than G1. The hematocrit value differed between the ages of the females and was higher than that of the males, while the older male animals showed higher values than the young animals. Females presented lower platelet values than males, with older females having higher platelet values than younger females, in the same way as males. G1 females had the highest leukocyte values. The leukocyte values in males of G2 were higher than those of G1. This same behavior occurred for lymphocytes, eosinophils, and creatine kinase. Considering the albumin and aspartate aminotransferase variables, females had the highest values in the group of animals aged 4 to 9 years. Bretons are considered cold-blooded animals, which is consistent with the observed blood count values. However, it is concluded that these horses have biochemical values similar to warm-blooded breeds.

Devido à escassez de informações sobre equinos da raça Bretão, objetivou-se estudar valores hematobioquímicos da raça. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 29 Bretões, machos e fêmeas de diferentes idades, em Brasília-DF, distribuídos entre grupos, segundo idade, sem distinção de sexo (G1): animais de 4 a 9 anos (n=16) e (G2): de 10 a 26 anos (n=13). Os mesmos também foram distribuídos em machos e fêmeas para comparação entre os sexos. Valores para hemácia, hemoglobina, creatinina e ureia foram estatisticamente maiores nas fêmeas. Fibrinogênio foi maior nos machos. Valores de linfócitos do G1 foram maiores, mas o volume corpuscular médio, monócitos, neutrófilos e GGT do G1 foram menores que do G2. Valor do hematócrito difere entre idades das fêmeas e foi superior ao dos machos, os animais machos mais velhos apresentaram valores superiores aos jovens. As fêmeas apresentaram valores de plaquetas menores que os machos, sendo que as mais velhas apresentaram valores de plaqueta maiores que as mais jovens, da mesma forma que os machos. No G1, as fêmeas apresentaram os maiores valores de leucócitos. Os valores de leucócitos nos machos do G2 foram maiores que os do G1. Esse mesmo comportamento ocorreu para linfócitos, eosinófilos e creatinaquinase. Já para as variáveis albumina e aspartato aminotransferase, no grupo de animais de 4 a 9 anos, as fêmeas tiveram os maiores valores. Bretões são animais de sangue frio, o que condiz com os valores do hemograma observados. Porém, conclui-se que estes equinos apresentam valores bioquímicos similares aos de sangue quente.

Use of Raman spectroscopy to evaluate the biochemical composition of normal and tumoral human brain tissues for diagnosis.

Raman spectroscopy was used to identify biochemical differences in normal brain tissue (cerebellum and meninges) compared to tumors (glioblastoma, medulloblastoma, schwannoma, and meningioma) through biochemical information obtained from the samples. A total of 263 spectra were obtained from fragments of the normal cerebellum (65), normal meninges (69), glioblastoma (28), schwannoma (8), medulloblastoma (19), and meningioma (74), which were collected using the dispersive Raman spectrometer (830 nm, near infrared, output power of 350 mW, 20 s exposure time to obtain the spectra), coupled to a Raman probe. A spectral model based on least squares fitting was developed to estimate the biochemical concentration of 16 biochemical compounds present in brain tissue, among those that most characterized brain tissue spectra, such as linolenic acid, triolein, cholesterol, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, ß-carotene, collagen, phenylalanine, DNA, glucose, and blood. From the biochemical information, the classification of the spectra in the normal and tumor groups was conducted according to the type of brain tumor and corresponding normal tissue. The classification used in discrimination models were (a) the concentrations of the biochemical constituents of the brain, through linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and (b) the tissue spectra, through the discrimination by partial least squares (PLS-DA) regression. The models obtained 93.3% discrimination accuracy through the LDA between the normal and tumor groups of the cerebellum separated according to the concentration of biochemical constituents and 94.1% in the discrimination by PLS-DA using the whole spectrum. The results obtained demonstrated that the Raman technique is a promising tool to differentiate concentrations of biochemical compounds present in brain tissues, both normal and tumor. The concentrations estimated by the biochemical model and all the information contained in the Raman spectra were both able to classify the pathological groups.

Assessment of Leishmania infantum infection in equine populations in a canine visceral leishmaniosis transmission area.

BACKGROUND: Leishmaniosis, zoonosis that produces significant public health impacts, is caused by Leishmania infantum. Canines are the main domestic reservoir and, besides humans, other species of mammals could be infected when living in endemic areas. In this study, we detected equine Leishmania infantum infections in a canine visceral leishmaniosis transmission area and evaluated the clinical, haematological, biochemical and oxidative stress disorders. This study was conducted in Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, south of Brazil. Peripheral blood samples were collected from 124 animals (98 horses and 26 dogs) of both genders and several breeds after they underwent general and dermatologic examinations. RESULTS: Twenty five Leishmania infantum infected animals (20.16%), 14 horses and 11 dogs were detected by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification of kinetoplast DNA regions with 96% homology to Leishmania infantum (GenBank Accession No. L 19877.1). The clinical and haematological alterations of infected equines were skin lesions, nodules, lymphadenopathy, decreased levels in red blood cells and haematocrit (p < 0.05) and increase in urea serum concentration (p < 0.05), while CVL presented a decrease in red blood cells counts (p < 0.05), increase in lymphocytes (p < 0.05), and decrease in neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (p < 0.05). Oxidative stress markers of plasma protein carbonyl and plasma lipid peroxidation were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) in both species. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this has been the first leishmaniosis equine survey performed in south of Brazil, caused by Leishmania infantum that were able to initially identify haematological and biochemical changes in the species, even in asymptomatic animals. We present evidence supporting those findings of haematological and biochemical changes could be related to infection. Surprisingly, the clinical manifestations of equine infection were similar to those found in canine visceral leishmaniosis. The equine population could be play an important role in the cycle of leishmaniosis in south Brazil and consequently indicates a great risk of public health. This evaluation of infected animals is important to establish the clinical and laboratory parameters involved in the disease progression.

From traditional biochemical signals to molecular markers for detection of sepsis after burn injuries.

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ-dysfunction condition caused by a dysregulated response to an infectious condition that can cause complications in patients with major trauma. Burns are one of the most destructive forms of trauma; despite the improvements in medical care, infections remain an important cause of burn injury-related mortality and morbidity, and complicated sepsis predisposes patients to diverse complications such as organ failure, lengthening of hospital stays, and increased costs. Accurate diagnosis and early treatment of sepsis may have a beneficial impact on clinical outcome of burn-injured patients. In this review, we offer a comprehensive description of the current and traditional markers used as indicative of sepsis in burned patients. However, although these are markers of the inflammatory post-burn response, they usually fail to predict sepsis in severely burned patients due to that they do not reflect the severity of the infection. Identification and measurement of biomarkers in early stages of infection is important in order to provide timely response and effective treatment of burned patients. Therefore, we compiled important experimental evidence, demonstrating novel biomarkers, including molecular markers such as genomic DNA variations, alterations of transcriptome profiling (mRNA, miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs), epigenetic markers, and advances in proteomics and metabolomics. Finally, this review summarizes next-generation technologies for the identification of markers for detection of sepsis after burn injuries.

Perfil bioquímico sérico de gatos domésticos obesos oriundos da cidade de São Luís, Maranhão / Biochemical serum profile of obese domestic cats from São Luís city, Maranhão

A obesidade é uma doença caracterizada pelo acúmulo excessivo de gordura corporal. É causada por múltiplos fatores, que podem levar ao desenvolvimento de várias enfermidades secundárias como as doenças cardíacas, do trato urinário inferior, dermatopatias, diabetes mellitus e lipidose hepática. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar as alterações bioquímicas séricas de gatos domésticos obesos. Para isso, foram utilizados 21 gatos domésticos, de ambos os sexos, sem raça definida, com idade entre 10 meses e 14 anos, escolhidos de acordo com o escore de condição corporal. Nesses animais foram realizadas avaliações clínicas e metabólicas. Notou-se quanto aos fatores de risco que 85,71% dos animais eram castrados, e que 52,38% dos animais possuíam hábitos sedentários. Para 71,43% dos machos e 100% das fêmeas eram fornecidas dietas exclusivas de ração e 42,86% dos gatos eram alimentados ad libitum. Os valores médios encontrados revelaram ureia e creatinina acima dos valores de referência, no qual os machos apresentaram valores mais elevados.  A AST e ALT também apresentaram os valores acima dos valores normais para a espécie. Os valores de colesterol total, proteínas totais e frações (albumina e globulinas), glicose e fosfatase alcalina, quando se observou os valores mínimo e máximo mostraram resultados fora da normalidade para a espécie. Conclui-se que a obesidade pode alterar os valores bioquímicos séricos dos gatos demonstrando aumento do valor da ureia, creatinina, AST e ALT.

Obesity is a disease characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat. It is caused by multiple factors, which can lead to the development of various secondary diseases such as heart disease and in the lower urinary tract, dermatopathies, diabetes mellitus and liver lipidosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biochemical serum profile of obese domestic cats. For this purpose, 21 domestic cats, of both sexes, with no defined breed, aged between 10 months and 14 years, were chosen according to the body condition score. Clinical and metabolic evaluations were performed in these animals. It was noted that 85.71% of the animals were castrated, and 52.38% of the animals had sedentary habits. For 71.43% of the males and 100% of the females were fed diets exclusive of feed and 42.86% of the cats were fed ad libitum. The mean values found showed urea and creatinine above the reference values, in which males presented higher values. AST and ALT also showed values above the normal values for the species. The values of total cholesterol, total proteins and fractions (albumin and globulins), glucose and alkaline phosphatase, when the minimum and maximum values were observed, showed non-normal results for the species. It is concluded that obesity can alter the biochemical serum values of the cats demonstrating increase in the value of urea, creatinine, AST and ALT.

Perfil bioquímico sérico de gatos domésticos obesos oriundos da cidade de São Luís, Maranhão / Biochemical serum profile of obese domestic cats from São Luís city, Maranhão

A obesidade é uma doença caracterizada pelo acúmulo excessivo de gordura corporal. É causada por múltiplos fatores, que podem levar ao desenvolvimento de várias enfermidades secundárias como as doenças cardíacas, do trato urinário inferior, dermatopatias, diabetes mellitus e lipidose hepática. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar as alterações bioquímicas séricas de gatos domésticos obesos. Para isso, foram utilizados 21 gatos domésticos, de ambos os sexos, sem raça definida, com idade entre 10 meses e 14 anos, escolhidos de acordo com o escore de condição corporal. Nesses animais foram realizadas avaliações clínicas e metabólicas. Notou-se quanto aos fatores de risco que 85,71% dos animais eram castrados, e que 52,38% dos animais possuíam hábitos sedentários. Para 71,43% dos machos e 100% das fêmeas eram fornecidas dietas exclusivas de ração e 42,86% dos gatos eram alimentados ad libitum. Os valores médios encontrados revelaram ureia e creatinina acima dos valores de referência, no qual os machos apresentaram valores mais elevados.  A AST e ALT também apresentaram os valores acima dos valores normais para a espécie. Os valores de colesterol total, proteínas totais e frações (albumina e globulinas), glicose e fosfatase alcalina, quando se observou os valores mínimo e máximo mostraram resultados fora da normalidade para a espécie. Conclui-se que a obesidade pode alterar os valores bioquímicos séricos dos gatos demonstrando aumento do valor da ureia, creatinina, AST e ALT.(AU)

Obesity is a disease characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat. It is caused by multiple factors, which can lead to the development of various secondary diseases such as heart disease and in the lower urinary tract, dermatopathies, diabetes mellitus and liver lipidosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biochemical serum profile of obese domestic cats. For this purpose, 21 domestic cats, of both sexes, with no defined breed, aged between 10 months and 14 years, were chosen according to the body condition score. Clinical and metabolic evaluations were performed in these animals. It was noted that 85.71% of the animals were castrated, and 52.38% of the animals had sedentary habits. For 71.43% of the males and 100% of the females were fed diets exclusive of feed and 42.86% of the cats were fed ad libitum. The mean values found showed urea and creatinine above the reference values, in which males presented higher values. AST and ALT also showed values above the normal values for the species. The values of total cholesterol, total proteins and fractions (albumin and globulins), glucose and alkaline phosphatase, when the minimum and maximum values were observed, showed non-normal results for the species. It is concluded that obesity can alter the biochemical serum values of the cats demonstrating increase in the value of urea, creatinine, AST and ALT.(AU)

Parâmetros comparativos de indicadores bioquímicos plasmáticos de duas populações de quatis (Nasua nasua - LINNAEUS, 1766) com e sem ação antrópica / Comparative parameters of plasma biochemical indicators of two populations of Coati (Nasua nasua - LINNAEUS, 1766) with and without human action

Os quatis são mamíferos carnívoros da família Procyonidae, são animais onívoros, encontrados nas Américas do Norte, Central e Sul, sendo amplamente distribuídos no Brasil. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar as alterações nos parâmetros sanguíneos de duas diferentes populações de quatis (Nasua nasua), da região oeste do Paraná, e avaliar a qualidade de vida e a interferência antrópica nos hábitos alimentares desses animais. A análise sorológica foi realizada em duas diferentes populações de quatis (Nasua nasua) que habitam duas unidades de conservação em regiões distintas no município de Foz do Iguaçu. Em uma das populações, foram visualizados cerca de cinquenta indivíduos, os quais se revelam em exposição direta aos seres humanos, e outra população menor, em torno de trinta indivíduos, os quais não possuem exposição direta aos seres humanos, o que, por sua vez, revelou importantes indicativos da qualidade de vida e de saúde desses animais. Foram realizadas avaliações bioquímicas do soro sanguíneo de 10 quatis adultos; cinco animais do grupo 1, população exposta aos seres humanos, e cinco animais do grupo 2, população com menor exposição. Com os resultados obtidos, foram feitas as comparações dos valores bioquímicos entre os grupos e com os valores de referência pesquisados na literatura. Os exames bioquímicos revelaram alterações significativas nos níveis de glicose e proteínas totais e alterações no nível plasmático de triglicerídeos nos quatis capturados na população em contado direto com seres humanos. Conclui-se que a saúde dos animais que possuem exposição direta com seres humanos está sendo afetada pelo consumo de uma dieta rica em carboidratos e gorduras, oriunda de alimentos industrializados fornecidos pelos turistas.(AU)

The coatis, carnivorous mammals of the Procyonidae family, are omnivorous animals, found in North, Central and South America and are widely distributed in Brazil. The objective of this study was to analyze changes in blood parameters in two different populations of coatis (Nasua nasua), of the western region of Paraná, and to evaluate the quality of life and the human interference in eating habits of these animals. Serologic analysis was performed in two different populations of coatis (Nasua nasua) inhabiting two conservation units in different areas in the city of Foz do Iguaçu. In one population, approximately fifty individuals were visualized, revealing themselves in direct exposure to humans as well as another minor population of about thirty individuals, which have no direct exposure to humans, which revealed important indicatives of the quality of life and health of these animals. Biochemical assessments of ten adults coatis serum were perfomred, five animals in group 1, population exposed to humans and five animals of the group 2, population less exposed. With the obtained results, comparisons were made between the groups' biochemical values and the reference values found in the literature. Biochemical tests revealed significant changes in glucose levels and total protein and changes in plasma levels of triglycerides in coatis captured in the population in direct contact with humans. It follows that the health of animals that have direct exposure to humans is being affected by the consumption of a diet high in carbohydrates and fats, coming from processed foods provided by tourists.(AU)

Parâmetros comparativos de indicadores bioquímicos plasmáticos de duas populações de quatis (Nasua nasua - LINNAEUS, 1766) com e sem ação antrópica / Comparative parameters of plasma biochemical indicators of two populations of Coati (Nasuanasua - LINNAEUS, 1766) with and without human action

Os quatis são mamíferos carnívoros da família Procyonidae, são animais onívoros, encontrados nas Américas do Norte, Central e Sul, sendo amplamente distribuídos no Brasil. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar as alterações nos parâmetros sanguíneos de duas diferentes populações de quatis (Nasua nasua), da região oeste do Paraná, e avaliar a qualidade de vida e a interferência antrópica nos hábitos alimentares desses animais. A análise sorológica foi realizada em duas diferentes populações de quatis (Nasua nasua) que habitam duas unidades de conservação em regiões distintas no município de Foz do Iguaçu. Em uma das populações, foram visualizados cerca de cinquenta indivíduos, os quais se revelam em exposição direta aos seres humanos, e outra população menor, em torno de trinta indivíduos, os quais não possuem exposição direta aos seres humanos, o que, por sua vez, revelou importantes indicativos da qualidade de vida e de saúde desses animais. Foram realizadas avaliações bioquímicas do soro sanguíneo de 10 quatis adultos; cinco animais do grupo 1, população exposta aos seres humanos, e cinco animais do grupo 2, população com menor exposição. Com os resultados obtidos, foram feitas as comparações dos valores bioquímicos entre os grupos e com os valores de referência pesquisados na literatura. Os exames bioquímicos revelaram alterações significativas nos níveis de glicose e proteínas totais e alterações no nível plasmático de triglicerídeos nos quatis capturados na população em contado direto com seres humanos. Conclui-se que a saúde dos animais que possuem exposição direta com seres humanos está sendo afetada pelo consumo de uma dieta rica em carboidratos e gorduras, oriunda de alimentos industrializados fornecidos pelos turistas.(AU)

The coatis, carnivorous mammals of the Procyonidae family, are omnivorous animals, found in North, Central and South America and are widely distributed in Brazil. The objective of this study was to analyze changes in blood parameters in two different populations of coatis (Nasua nasua), of the western region of Paraná, and to evaluate the quality of life and the human interference in eating habits of these animals. Serologic analysis was performed in two different populations of coatis (Nasua nasua) inhabiting two conservation units in different areas in the city of Foz do Iguaçu. In one population, approximately fifty individuals were visualized, revealing themselves in direct exposure to humans as well as another minor population of about thirty individuals, which have no direct exposure to humans, which revealed important indicatives of the quality of life and health of these animals. Biochemical assessments of ten adults coatis serum were perfomred, five animals in group 1, population exposed to humans and five animals of the group 2, population less exposed. With the obtained results, comparisons were made between the groups' biochemical values and the reference values found in the literature. Biochemical tests revealed significant changes in glucose levels and total protein and changes in plasma levels of triglycerides in coatis captured in the population in direct contact with humans. It follows that the health of animals that have direct exposure to humans is being affected by the consumption of a diet high in carbohydrates and fats, coming from processed foods provided by tourists.(AU)

A colorimetric microwell method using a desktop scanner for biochemical assays.

A method for rapid, inexpensive and sensitive simultaneous analysis of glucose, creatinine, triglycerides, total cholesterol and total protein is needed to analyze blood. The proposed method is based on the production of a specific color after reaction. The method was adapted to a 64-microwell plate format, and it uses the transparency scanner feature of a commercially available desktop scanner. Each microwell plate had an 8×8 array of flat-bottomed 250µL microwells, and these microwells were used to simultaneously house the solutions for clinical assay. The scanned image was saved in TIFF format in a portable computer and then processed using a Graphic User Interface (GUI) designed in our laboratory to obtain analytical curves and to automate the mathematics and statistics calculations. This automation improved the analytical frequency of the method. The results showed that it is possible to measure a few microliters of solution with exactitude and precision better than 5.30%. The measured concentration ranges of glucose, triglycerides, creatinine, total cholesterol and total protein were 0.781 to 100, 1.56 to 200, 0.031 to 4.0, 1.56 to 200mg dL(-1) and 0.031 to 4.0g dL(-1), respectively. The limits of detection were 16.2, 51.7, 0.12, 41.5mg dL(-1) and 0.62g dL(-1) for glucose, triglycerides, creatinine, total cholesterol and total protein, respectively. The recoveries were from 98.7% to 101.3% for total cholesterol, 98.7% to 124.9% for triglycerides, 54.2% to 98.3% for total protein, 89.6% to 101% for glucose and 65.7% to 115.4% for creatinine. The results provided by the scanner were compared with those obtained with a commercial photometer and did not show significant differences at a confidence level of 95%. Good results were obtained for the correlation coefficient and Root Mean Square Error of Prediction (RMSEP) values for the five parameters, especially the total cholesterol and creatinine. The RMSEP values for glucose, creatinine, triglyceride, total cholesterol and total protein were 8.05, 0.28, 7.69, 1.41mg dL(-1) and 2.2g dL(-1), respectively.

Estudo dos analitos bioquímicos no plasma de coelhos (Nova Zelândia) mantidos no biotério da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo / / Biochemical analytes study of rabbits plasma (New Zealand) kept in an animal facility at Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São paulo

Objetivos: determinar os valores de normalidade dos componentes do plasma de coelhos da linhagem Nova Zelândia, convencionais, através de testes bioquímicos, comparando os resultados entre os sexos e entre os períodos, ao longo de exames realizados de 2008 a 2010. Material e Métodos: plasma de coelhos provenientes do Centro de Bioterismo da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo foi testado por sistema de identificação-espectrofolometríca em analisador bioquímico semi-automatizado (Cobas Mira-Roche Diag System) e Kits comerciais (Bioclin/Biosystems e Labtest) padronizados para animais. Resultados: Houve uma variação significativ (p<0,05*) entre as concentrações de AST*, triglicérides e HDL, estando o primeiro e o terceiro aumentados entre as fêmeas e o terceiro, entre os machos. Na comparação dos resultados obtidos entre os anos, observou-se uma diferenciação para ALT nos machos e fêmeas (2008), aumento de LDH, triglicérides e amônia para machos (2009) e aumento de fósfoto, ferro, colesterol total, HDL e VLDL para fêmeas (2009). Conclusão: Foram obtidos os seguintes valores (Média ± erro padrão), machos e fêmeas, respectivamente, alanina aminotransferase (ALT) (U/L) 48,56 ± 8,32,41 ±16,91; aspartato aminotransferase (AST) (U/L)=46,81±15,0,56,8±17,09*; bilirrubina indireta (mg/dL)= 0,36±0,48,0,35; bilirrubina total (mg/dL)=1,02±1,32;2,0±1,17; bilirrubina direta (mg/dL)= 0,37±1,1,0,46±0,49; uréia (mg/dL)= 50,4±9,86,49,58±±10,02; creatina (mg/dL)= 0,37±1,1,0,46±0,94; uréia (mg/dL)=52,53±5,21,41,99±2,82, nitrogênio urêico sanguíneo (Bun-uréia) (mg/dL)= 6,87±0,76,7,82±1,16; cloretos (mEq/dL)= 78,14±8,42,83,04±8,33; glicose (mg/dL)= 104,63±13,37,110,36±12,04; magnésio (mg/dL)= 2,14±1,83,2,04±1,9; colesterol total (mg/dL)= 71,33±12,9,69,92±9,16; triglicerídeos (mg/dL)= 80,88±8,82,54,06±13,99*, lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL) (mg/dL)= 10,32±2,26, 12,1±3,06, lipoproteína de baixa densidade (LDL) (mg/dL)= 31,73±16,69, 27±21,53, fosfatase alcalina (ALP) (U/L)= 133,1±12,13,140,96±12,77; proteínas totais (g/dL)= 6,07±1,39,6,53±1,25; albumína (g/dL)= 3,04±2,53,3,52±2,19; globulina (g/dL)= 1,83±2,57,2,9±2,02; cálcio (mg/dL)= 7,6±1,61,7,02±1,45; desidrogenase lática (LDH) (mg/dL)= 166,64±18,05, 162, 13±20,86. CEAU nº 251/11.

Objectives: To determine normal values of New Zealand rabbits plasma components conventional, by biochemical tests, comparing the results between gender and periods during tests conducted from 2008 to 2010. Material and Methods: Plasma from rabbits of the Faculdade de Medicina da USP (Universidade of São Paulo) fecilities was tested by spectrophotometric identification system for semi-automated biochemical analyzer (Cobas mira-Roche Diag System), and commercial kits (Bioclin/Biosystems and Labtest) standardized for animals. Results: There was a significant variation (p<0,05*) between the concentrations of AST* (aspartate aminotransferase), triglycerides and HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), with the first and third increased between the females and he third amon males. Comparing the results between years, there was a diference for ALT (alanine aminotransferase) in males and females (2008) , increased LDH (lactate denydiogenase), triglycerides and ammonia for males (2009) and increased phosphorus, iron, total cholesterol, HDL and VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein) to females (2009). Conclusion: We obtained the following values (mean ±standard error), males and females, respectivelu: ALTT(I/L) 48.56±8.32, 41±16.91; AST (U/L) = 46.81±15.0, 56.8±17.09*: indirect bilirubin (mg/dL) = 0.36±0.48, 0.19±0.35; total bilirubin (mg/dL) = 1.02±17.09*; indirect bilirubin (mg/dL) = 0.55±0.23, 0.19±0.24; ammonia (mg/dL) = 50.4±9.86, 49.58±10.02; creatinine (mg/dL) - 0.37±1.1, 0.46±0.94; urea (md/dL) = (mg/dL) = 52.53±5.21, 45.99±2.82; blood urea nitrogen [Bun-urea] (mg/dL) = 6.87±0.76, 7.82±1.16; chloride (mEq dL) = 78.14±8.42, 83.04±8.33; phosphorus (mg/dL) = 5.04±0.95, 5.03±0.93; iron (,mg/dL) = 261.15±35.83, 214.26±45.7; glucose (mg/dL) = 104..63±13.37, 110.36±12.04, magnesium (mg/dL) = 2.14±1.83, 2.04±1.9; total cholesterol (mg/dL) = 71.33±12.9, 69.92±9.16; triglycerides (mg/dL) = 80.88±8.82, 54.06±13.99*; HDL (mg/dL) = 33.75±6.88, 39.43±6.49*; VLDL (mg/dL) = 10.32±2.26, 12.1±3.06; low density lipoprotein [LDL] (md/dL) = 31.73±16.69, 27.0±21.53; alkaline phsphatase [ALP] (U/L) = 133.1±12.13, 140.96±12.77; total protein (g/dL) = 6.07±1.39, 6.53±1.25; albumin (g/dL) = ± 3.04±2.53, 3.52±2.198/ globulin (g/dL) = 1.83±2.57, 2.9±2.02; calcium (mg/dL) = 7.6±1.61, 7.02±1.46; LDH (mg/dL) = 166.64±18.05, 162.13±20.86.

Estudo dos analitos bioquímicos no plasma de coelhos (Nova Zelândia) mantidos no biotério da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo / / Biochemical analytes study of rabbits plasma (New Zealand) kept in an animal facility at Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São paulo

Objetivos: determinar os valores de normalidade dos componentes do plasma de coelhos da linhagem Nova Zelândia, convencionais, através de testes bioquímicos, comparando os resultados entre os sexos e entre os períodos, ao longo de exames realizados de 2008 a 2010. Material e Métodos: plasma de coelhos provenientes do Centro de Bioterismo da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo foi testado por sistema de identificação-espectrofolometríca em analisador bioquímico semi-automatizado (Cobas Mira-Roche Diag System) e Kits comerciais (Bioclin/Biosystems e Labtest) padronizados para animais. Resultados: Houve uma variação significativ (p<0,05*) entre as concentrações de AST*, triglicérides e HDL, estando o primeiro e o terceiro aumentados entre as fêmeas e o terceiro, entre os machos. Na comparação dos resultados obtidos entre os anos, observou-se uma diferenciação para ALT nos machos e fêmeas (2008), aumento de LDH, triglicérides e amônia para machos (2009) e aumento de fósfoto, ferro, colesterol total, HDL e VLDL para fêmeas (2009). Conclusão: Foram obtidos os seguintes valores (Média ± erro padrão), machos e fêmeas, respectivamente, alanina aminotransferase (ALT) (U/L) 48,56 ± 8,32,41 ±16,91; aspartato aminotransferase (AST) (U/L)=46,81±15,0,56,8±17,09*; bilirrubina indireta (mg/dL)= 0,36±0,48,0,35; bilirrubina total (mg/dL)=1,02±1,32;2,0±1,17; bilirrubina direta (mg/dL)= 0,37±1,1,0,46±0,49; uréia (mg/dL)= 50,4±9,86,49,58±±10,02; creatina (mg/dL)= 0,37±1,1,0,46±0,94; uréia (mg/dL)=52,53±5,21,41,99±2,82, nitrogênio urêico sanguíneo (Bun-uréia) (mg/dL)= 6,87±0,76,7,82±1,16; cloretos (mEq/dL)= 78,14±8,42,83,04±8,33; glicose (mg/dL)= 104,63±13,37,110,36±12,04; magnésio (mg/dL)= 2,14±1,83,2,04±1,9; colesterol total (mg/dL)= 71,33±12,9,69,92±9,16; triglicerídeos (mg/dL)= 80,88±8,82,54,06±13,99*, lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL) (mg/dL)= 10,32±2,26, 12,1±3,06, lipoproteína de baixa densidade (LDL) (mg/dL)= 31,73±16,69, 27±21,53, fosfatase alcalina (ALP) (U/L)= 133,1±12,13,140,96±12,77; proteínas totais (g/dL)= 6,07±1,39,6,53±1,25; albumína (g/dL)= 3,04±2,53,3,52±2,19; globulina (g/dL)= 1,83±2,57,2,9±2,02; cálcio (mg/dL)= 7,6±1,61,7,02±1,45; desidrogenase lática (LDH) (mg/dL)= 166,64±18,05, 162, 13±20,86. CEAU nº 251/11.(AU)

Objectives: To determine normal values of New Zealand rabbits plasma components conventional, by biochemical tests, comparing the results between gender and periods during tests conducted from 2008 to 2010. Material and Methods: Plasma from rabbits of the Faculdade de Medicina da USP (Universidade of São Paulo) fecilities was tested by spectrophotometric identification system for semi-automated biochemical analyzer (Cobas mira-Roche Diag System), and commercial kits (Bioclin/Biosystems and Labtest) standardized for animals. Results: There was a significant variation (p<0,05*) between the concentrations of AST* (aspartate aminotransferase), triglycerides and HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), with the first and third increased between the females and he third amon males. Comparing the results between years, there was a diference for ALT (alanine aminotransferase) in males and females (2008) , increased LDH (lactate denydiogenase), triglycerides and ammonia for males (2009) and increased phosphorus, iron, total cholesterol, HDL and VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein) to females (2009). Conclusion: We obtained the following values (mean ±standard error), males and females, respectivelu: ALTT(I/L) 48.56±8.32, 41±16.91; AST (U/L) = 46.81±15.0, 56.8±17.09*: indirect bilirubin (mg/dL) = 0.36±0.48, 0.19±0.35; total bilirubin (mg/dL) = 1.02±17.09*; indirect bilirubin (mg/dL) = 0.55±0.23, 0.19±0.24; ammonia (mg/dL) = 50.4±9.86, 49.58±10.02; creatinine (mg/dL) - 0.37±1.1, 0.46±0.94; urea (md/dL) = (mg/dL) = 52.53±5.21, 45.99±2.82; blood urea nitrogen [Bun-urea] (mg/dL) = 6.87±0.76, 7.82±1.16; chloride (mEq dL) = 78.14±8.42, 83.04±8.33; phosphorus (mg/dL) = 5.04±0.95, 5.03±0.93; iron (,mg/dL) = 261.15±35.83, 214.26±45.7; glucose (mg/dL) = 104..63±13.37, 110.36±12.04, magnesium (mg/dL) = 2.14±1.83, 2.04±1.9; total cholesterol (mg/dL) = 71.33±12.9, 69.92±9.16; triglycerides (mg/dL) = 80.88±8.82, 54.06±13.99*; HDL (mg/dL) = 33.75±6.88, 39.43±6.49*; VLDL (mg/dL) = 10.32±2.26, 12.1±3.06; low density lipoprotein [LDL] (md/dL) = 31.73±16.69, 27.0±21.53; alkaline phsphatase [ALP] (U/L) = 133.1±12.13, 140.96±12.77; total protein (g/dL) = 6.07±1.39, 6.53±1.25; albumin (g/dL) = ± 3.04±2.53, 3.52±2.198/ globulin (g/dL) = 1.83±2.57, 2.9±2.02; calcium (mg/dL) = 7.6±1.61, 7.02±1.46; LDH (mg/dL) = 166.64±18.05, 162.13±20.86.(AU)

Correlação da atividade de lactato desidrogenase e concentração de lactato com a classificação de efusões em cães / Correlation of lactate dehydrogenase and lactate concentration with dog's effusion classification

As efusões são problemas clínicos frequentes e que ocorrem em consequência de uma enfermidade que culmine com diminuição da pressão coloidosmótica intravascular, elevação da pressão hidrostática local, aumento da permeabilidade vascular e/ou comprometimento da drenagem realizada pelos vasos linfáticos. Dessa maneira, a avaliação laboratorial desse fluido torna-se relevante para que, em conjunto com os sinais clínicos apresentados pelo paciente, possa ser firmado um possível diagnóstico e instituída ação terapêutica adequada. Assim sendo, a classificação de uma efusão em transudato ou exsudato torna-se um dos pontos críticos para a elucidação do diagnóstico e condução do caso clínico. Em Medicina Veterinária, o método tradicional de classificação de uma efusão é baseado na contagem celular e na concentração de proteínas do fluido. Contudo, diversos estudos evidenciam que tais parâmetros não são suficientes para a correta classificação de todas as efusões. Assim, o presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de verificar a correlação de outros parâmetros bioquímicos com a diferenciação das efusões transudativas e exsudativas e, para tal, foram avaliadas as atividades de lacatato desidrogenase (LDH) das efusões, a relação de sua atividade fluido/soro, concentração de lactato das efusões, o gradiente de concentração de lactato do soro para o fluido e a concentração de proteínas das efusões. Os resultados obtidos permitiram observar que a atividade de LDH, a relação LDH efusão/soro, a concentração de lactato e o gradiente de concentração de lactato soro/efusão apresentam diferença estatisticamente significativa (P<0,05), bem como alta correlação com a classificação de uma efusão exsudativa.

The effusions are frequent clinical problems and can occur in consequence to an illness that culminates with decrease of the intravascular coloidosmotic pressure, increase of local hydrostatic pressure, increase of vascular permeability and/or compromising of the drainage accomplished by lymphatic vases. Therefore, the laboratorial evaluation of this fluid becomes relevant, jointly with clinical signs presented by patient; to become possible the diagnosis definition and institution of appropriate therapeutic. Thus, classification of effusion in exudate and transudate is one of major points to elucidation of diagnosis and conduction of clinical case. In veterinary medicine the traditional method of an effusion classification is based on cellular counting and protein concentration of the fluid, however, several studies evidence that such parameters are not enough for the correct classification of all kinds of effusions. Considering this, the present study aimed to verify the correlation of some biochemical parameters with the differentiation of transudatives and exudatives effusions. To perform this, the activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were appraised, as well as the relationship of their activities with fluid/serum; lactate and proteins concentration and fluid/serum gradients of concentration of these same substances. The results allowed to observe that the activity of LDH, relationship LDH and fluid/serum, lactate concentration and lactate fluid/serum gradient of concentration present statistically significant difference (P<0.05), as well as a high correlation with the classification of an exudative effusion.

Amino and fatty acid compositions in Haruan traditional extract (HTE) / Composición de aminoácidos y ácidos grasos en extractos de Haruan tradicional

Evaluation of amino and fatty acids compositions in Haruan Traditional Extracts (HTE) was done using HPLC and GC methods. The HTE contained at least 17 amino acids with glutamic acid, glycine, leusine, aspartic acid, proline, alanine and arginine are the most, with values 1.87 - 43.13 mg/g, 21.80 - 80.85 mg/g, 7.85- 40.19 mg/g, 13.85 - 44.07 mg/g, 9.49 - 45.46 mg/g, 11.38 - 35.25 mg/g and 5.99 - 21.79 mg/g, respectively. Meanwhile, the highest percentage of fatty acids is palmitic acid; 3.54 - 26.84 percent of total protein. The others major fatty acids are stearic acid, oleic acid and linoleic acid with values 3.25 - 15.90 percent, 1.40 - 27.68 percent, 0.51 - 7.82 percent of total protein, respectively. HTE also found to have 4 extra bioactive compounds labelled as 1 to 4 on chromatographic tracing which in line with previously finding. It is concluded that the HTE is containing all the important amino acids plus some fatty acids, which is the basis to conduct antioxidant composition in both fresh Haruan and the HTE which was claimed to have wound healing properties. Comparative study was also carried out in various other extraction protocols, including commercial product.

Evaluación de las composiciones de aminoácidos y ácidos grasos en Haruan Extractos tradicional (HTE) se realizó mediante métodos de HPLC y GC. La HTE contenía al menos 17 aminoácidos con ácido glutámico, glicina, leucina, ácido aspártico, prolina, alanina y arginina como mayoritarios, con valores de 1.87 - 43.13 mg/g, 21.80 - 80.85 mg/g, 7.85 - 40.19 mg/g, 13.85 - 44.07 mg/g, 9.49 - 45.46 mg/g, 11.38 - 35.25 mg/g and 5.99 - 21.79 mg/g, respectivamente. Mientras tanto, el mayor porcentaje de ácidos grasos es el ácido palmítico; 3.54 - 26.84 por ciento de la proteína total. Otros ácidos grasos importantes son el ácido esteárico, ácido oleico y ácido linoleico con valores de 3.25 - 15.90 por ciento, 1.40 - 27.68 %, 0.51 - 7.82 por ciento de la proteína total, respectivamente. HTE también encontró cuatro compuestos bioactivos adicionales etiquetados de 1 a 4 en el seguimiento cromatográfico que está de acuerdo con resultados previos. Se concluye que la HTE contiene todos los aminoácidos importantes además de algunos ácidos grasos, que es la base para llevar a cabo la composición antioxidante, tanto en fresco Haruan y la HTE que se afirma poseen propiedades curativas. Estudios comparativos se llevaron a cabo con otros protocolos de extracción, incluido el producto comercial.

Absence of the predisposing factors and signs and symptoms usually associated with overreaching and overtraining in physical fitness centers

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of the well-known predisposing factors and signs and symptoms usually associated with either overreaching or overtraining syndrome in physical fitness centers in São Paulo City, Brazil. METHOD: A questionnaire consisting of 13 question groups pertaining to either predisposing factors (1-7) or signs and symptoms (8-13) was given to 413 subjects. The general training schedule of the volunteers was characterized by workout sessions of 2.18 ± 0.04 h for a total of 11.0 ± 0.3 h/week for 33 ± 2 months independent of the type of exercise performed (walking, running, spinning, bodybuilding and stretching). A mean score was calculated ranging from 1 (completely absent) to 5 (severe) for each question group. A low occurrence was considered to be a question group score lower than 4, which was observed in all 13 question groups. RESULTS: The psychological evaluation by POMS Mood State Questionnaire indicated a normal non-inverted iceberg. The hematological parameters, creatine kinase activity, cortisol, total testosterone and free testosterone concentrations were within the normal ranges for the majority of the volunteers selected for this analysis (n = 60). CONCLUSION: According to the questionnaire score analysis, no predisposing factors or signs and symptoms usually associated with either overreaching or overtraining were detected among the members of physical fitness centers in São Paulo City, Brazil. This observation was corroborated by the absence of any significant hematological or stress hormone level alterations in blood analyses of the majority of the selected volunteers (n = 60).

Valores de referência de parâmetros bioquímicos no sangue de duas linhagens de camundongos / Reference values for blood-based biochemical parameters in BALB/C and C57BL/6 wild-type mice

INTRODUÇÃO: Conhecer os parâmetros bioquímicos individuais de animais de laboratório utilizados na experimentação é importante, pois eles servirão como parâmetros para avaliar alterações funcionais em órgãos e como base para estabelecer valores de referência. OBJETIVO:Estabelecer valores de referência bioquímicos do sangue em camundongos das linhagens BALB/c e C57BL/6 selvagens do Biotério da Disciplina de Biologia Celular da Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM). Materiais e métodos: Foram utilizados 30 camundongos (BALB/c e C57BL/6 selvagem). Os exames realizados foram glicose, triglicérides, colesterol, proteínas totais, albumina, amilase, ácido úrico, uréia, fosfatase alcalina (kits Wiener), e as determinações foram realizadas no equipamento BIOPLUS-2000. RESULTADOS:Entre os nove analitos observou-se que quatro (albumina, glicose, proteínas totais e colesterol) apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre as linhagens. Padronizamos como valores de referência para os camundongos os valores do intervalo de confiança (IC). Nos analitos em que houve diferença significativa entre as linhagens (p < 0,05) adotamos os valores do IC de cada linhagem; para os que não apresentaram diferenças foram utilizados os valores mínimos e máximos do IC entre as duas linhagens. CONCLUSÃO:Ao final da análise, acreditamos que os resultados obtidos sugerem a padronização de intervalos de referência próprios de cada biotério, pois refletem a condição da população para os quais os testes serão aplicados no dia-a-dia.

INTRODUCTION: Identifying individual biochemical parameters of laboratory animal species is important inasmuch as they may be used in the evaluation of functional changes in organs and in the establishment of reference values. OBJECTIVE: To establish biochemical reference values for blood tests in BALB/c and C57BL/6 wild-type mice from the Vivarium of the Department of Cellular Biology at the Federal University of "Triângulo Mineiro". MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty wild-type mice of the lineages BALB/c and C57BL/6 were used to evaluate the serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, amylase, uric acid, urea and alkaline phosphatase. The determinations were performed in a BIOPLUS-2000 analyzer. Results: Four out of the nine analytes (albumin, glucose, total proteins and cholesterol) showed significant statistical differences between the strains. Confidence interval (CI) values were standardized as reference values. In those analytes in which there was significant difference between strains (p < 0.05), confidence interval values of each lineage were adopted, whereas in those ones in which there were no differences, the minimum and maximum values of confidence interval from both lineages were applied. CONCLUSION: The results show the need for reference interval standardization of each Vivarium inasmuch as it reflects the conditions of the population in which the tests will be routinely performed.

Potential bird dispersers of Psychotria in a area of Atlantic forest on Ilha Grande, RJ, Southeastern Brazil: a biochemical analysis of the fruits

The present study assessed the fruiting pattern, bird foraging behavior, and sugar content of ripe fruits of two sympatric species of Rubiaceae (Psychotria brasiliensis and P. nuda). This study was carried out in an Atlantic forest area on Ilha Grande, RJ, between August 1998 and July 1999. Fruit production occurred year round, with a peak of mature P. brasiliensis fruits in December 1998 and another of P. nuda in February of 1999. Lipaugus lanioides (Cotingidae), Baryphtengus ruficapillus (Momotidae) and Saltator similis (Emberizidae) made the most frequent foraging visits to fruiting P. brasiliensis, so that L. lanioides and B. ruficapillus removed the fruits with sallying maneuvers while S. similis gleaned the fruits. Lipaugus lanioides was by far the most important consumer, and potentially the main disperser of P. brasiliensis. Birds of this genus are heavy frugivores in the tropical forests and are widely assumed to be important seed dispersers. The fruits were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively in relation to the amounts of sucrose and starch. Psychotria brasiliensis (the visited species) showed the smallest quantity of sucrose and the highest amount of starch. These findings suggest that what may influence the birds' choice of fruit is the proportion of starch in the Psychotria species studied here rather than the carbohydrate composition.

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram monitorar o padrão de frutificação, o comportamento de forrageamento de aves e o conteúdo de açúcares em frutos maduros de duas espécies simpátricas de Rubiaceae (Psychotria brasiliensis e P. nuda). O estudo foi realizado em área de Floresta Atlântica, na lha Grande, RJ, entre agosto de 1998 e julho de 1999. A frutificação ocorreu durante todo o ano com um pico de frutos maduros em dezembro de 1998 para P. brasiliensis e outro em fevereiro de 1999 para P. nuda. Lipaugus lanioides (Cotingidae), Baryphtengus ruficapillus (Momotidae) e Saltator similis (Emberizidae) foram os principais consumidores dos frutos de P. brasiliensis, sendo que L. lanioides e B. ruficapillus removeram os frutos adejando, enquanto S. similis os alcançou pousado nas plantas. Lipaugus lanioides foi o consumidor de frutos mais importante e potencialmente foi o principal dispersor das sementes de P. brasiliensis. As aves deste gênero estão entre os principais frugívoros especialistas de florestas tropicais e amplamente consideradas como importantes agentes dispersores de sementes. Os frutos foram analisados qualitativa e quantitativamente em relação às quantidades de açúcares livres e amido. A espécie visitada (P. brasiliensis) apresentou a menor quantidade de sacarose e a maior quantidade de amido. Os resultados sugerem que o consumo diferencial de frutos por espécies de aves não é influenciado pela composição de carboidratos, mas possivelmente pela proporção de amido nos frutos das espécies de Psychotria estudadas.

Potential bird dispersers of Psychotria in a area of Atlantic forest on Ilha Grande, RJ, Southeastern Brazil: a biochemical analysis of the fruits

The present study assessed the fruiting pattern, bird foraging behavior, and sugar content of ripe fruits of two sympatric species of Rubiaceae (Psychotria brasiliensis and P. nuda). This study was carried out in an Atlantic forest area on Ilha Grande, RJ, between August 1998 and July 1999. Fruit production occurred year round, with a peak of mature P. brasiliensis fruits in December 1998 and another of P. nuda in February of 1999. Lipaugus lanioides (Cotingidae), Baryphtengus ruficapillus (Momotidae) and Saltator similis (Emberizidae) made the most frequent foraging visits to fruiting P. brasiliensis, so that L. lanioides and B. ruficapillus removed the fruits with sallying maneuvers while S. similis gleaned the fruits. Lipaugus lanioides was by far the most important consumer, and potentially the main disperser of P. brasiliensis. Birds of this genus are heavy frugivores in the tropical forests and are widely assumed to be important seed dispersers. The fruits were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively in relation to the amounts of sucrose and starch. Psychotria brasiliensis (the visited species) showed the smallest quantity of sucrose and the highest amount of starch. These findings suggest that what may influence the birds' choice of fruit is the proportion of starch in the Psychotria species studied here rather than the carbohydrate composition.

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram monitorar o padrão de frutificação, o comportamento de forrageamento de aves e o conteúdo de açúcares em frutos maduros de duas espécies simpátricas de Rubiaceae (Psychotria brasiliensis e P. nuda). O estudo foi realizado em área de Floresta Atlântica, na lha Grande, RJ, entre agosto de 1998 e julho de 1999. A frutificação ocorreu durante todo o ano com um pico de frutos maduros em dezembro de 1998 para P. brasiliensis e outro em fevereiro de 1999 para P. nuda. Lipaugus lanioides (Cotingidae), Baryphtengus ruficapillus (Momotidae) e Saltator similis (Emberizidae) foram os principais consumidores dos frutos de P. brasiliensis, sendo que L. lanioides e B. ruficapillus removeram os frutos adejando, enquanto S. similis os alcançou pousado nas plantas. Lipaugus lanioides foi o consumidor de frutos mais importante e potencialmente foi o principal dispersor das sementes de P. brasiliensis. As aves deste gênero estão entre os principais frugívoros especialistas de florestas tropicais e amplamente consideradas como importantes agentes dispersores de sementes. Os frutos foram analisados qualitativa e quantitativamente em relação às quantidades de açúcares livres e amido. A espécie visitada (P. brasiliensis) apresentou a menor quantidade de sacarose e a maior quantidade de amido. Os resultados sugerem que o consumo diferencial de frutos por espécies de aves não é influenciado pela composição de carboidratos, mas possivelmente pela proporção de amido nos frutos das espécies de Psychotria estudadas.