Effects of cancer-induced cachexia and administration of L-glutathione on the intestinal mucosa in rat

Walker-256 tumor is an experimental model known to promote cachexia syndrome, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation. This study evaluated the duodenal mucosa of rats with Walker-256 tumor administered with 1% L-glutathione, intending to evaluate the damage caused by cancer-associated cachexia in the gastrointestinal tract and the effects of antioxidant administration on mucosal protection. Twenty-four 55-day-old male Wistar rats were distributed into four groups: control (C); control administered with 1% L-glutathione (C-GSH); Walker-256 tumor (W) and Walker-256 tumor administered with 1% L-glutathione (W-GSH). After 14 days of treatment, the duodenum was harvested for morphometric analysis of the mucosa, proliferation, apoptosis, immunostaining of varicosities immunoreactive (IR) to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and 5-HT-IR cells, and quantification of mast cells and goblet cells. Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats showed cachexia syndrome, mucosal atrophy, reduced cell proliferation, reduced 5-HT-IR cells, and increased goblet cells and VIPergic varicosities, which were not reversed by L-glutathione. On the other hand, L-glutathione caused a reduction of cells in apoptosis and mast cell recruitment, demonstrating a partial recovery of the damage detected in the intestinal mucosa.

Cancer-induced morphological changes in enteric glial cells in the jejunum of Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats

Cancer-induced cachexia is associated with systemic inflammation and gastrointestinal dysfunction. How changes to cells of the enteric nervous system contribute to gut dysfunction in tumor development and cancer cachexia is unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that changes to enteric glia, a type of peripheral glia that surround enteric neurons and regulate gut homeostasis, are associated with tumor development and that supplementing with the antioxidant L-glutathione is protective against the changes induced. Immunohistochemistry for neurons, enteric glial cells and immune cells was performed in whole-mount preparations and frozen histological sections of the jejunum from 20 Wistar rats, distributed in 4 groups: control, tumor of Walker-256, control administered with 1 % L-glutathione, and tumor of Walker-256 administered with 1 % L-glutathione. Morphoquantitative analyses were made using Image-Pro® Plus 4.5 and ImageJ® 1.43° software. Tumor development significantly reduced neuronal and glial cell populations in the myenteric and submucosal plexuses and enlarged glial cell body area in the submucosal plexus. In contrast, tumors increased glia in the jejunal mucosa and this effect was accompanied by B-lymphocyte recruitment. GSH-supplemented diet was not sufficient to protect against changes to neurons and glia in the submucosal plexus but was partially protective in the myenteric plexus. L-glutathione had no effect on physiological parameters of cachexia but was sufficient to preserve enteric glial cell density in the myenteric plexus. These results suggest that changes to both enteric neurons and glia likely contribute to the gastrointestinal effects of tumor development and that oxidative stress contributes to these effects in the enteric nervous system.

L-glutathione 1% promotes neuroprotection of nitrergic neurons and reduces the oxidative stress in the jejunum of rats with Walker-256-bearing tumor

AIMS

Our main goals were to investigate the effects of L-glutathione (1%) treatment in Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats by analyzing immunoreactive neurons (IR), responsive to the nNOS enzyme and 3-Nitrotyrosine, in their jejunum myenteric plexus. Moreover, the oxidative state and inflammatory process in these animals were investigated.

METHODS

Four experimental groups were utilized: control (C), control treated with L-glutathione (CGT), Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats (TW), and Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats treated with L-glutathione (TWGT). After 14 days of tumor inoculation, the jejunum was collected for immunohistochemical techniques and assessment of oxidative status. Plasma was collected to evaluate oxidative status and measure cytokines.

RESULTS

The TW group exhibited a decrease of reduced glutathione in their jejunum, which was prevented in the L-glutathione treated TWGT group. TW animals presented pronounced oxidative stress by increasing levels of lipoperoxidation in their jejunum and malondialdehyde in their plasma; however, the L-glutathione treatment in TWGT group was not able to avoid it. The total antioxidant capacity was altered in groups TW and TWGT, yet the last one had a better index in their plasma. The IL-10, and TNF-α levels increased in TWGT animals. The nNOS-IR neuron density decreased in the jejunum myenteric plexus of the TW group, which was avoided in the TWGT group. The nNOS +3-Nitrotyrosine neurons quantification did not show significative alterations.

CONCLUSION

The treatment with L-glutathione (1%) imposed an important defense to some parameters of oxidative stress induced by TW-256, leading to neuroprotection to the loss in the nNOS-IR neuron density.

Evaluation of Genistein as a Mitochondrial Modulator and Its Effects on Sperm Quality

Phytoestrogens, such as isoflavones, are bioactive compounds found in plants with defense and protection functions. In the human body, they simulate the behavior of the hormone estradiol and can modulate the function of the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This study aims to describe the effects of genistein on sperm quality of Wistar rats (male/adult) after a short oral administration protocol (50 mg/day, for 5 days), focusing on mitochondrial function. No signs of toxicity were observed in the animals during the period. The testicular mass of rats from the genistein-treated group was lower than that from the control group. Isoflavone increased the number of viable Leydig and Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and primary spermatocytes in the treated group. The rounded spermatid count was similar to the control group, and a decrease in elongated spermatids was observed in the treated group. Genistein treatment increased plasma testosterone levels in the treated group. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an in vivo short protocol demonstrating that genistein administration stimulates the overall oxygen consumption in rat seminal samples. Therefore, genistein induced a pro-spermatogenesis effect, enhanced plasma testosterone levels, and increased oxygen consumption, improving sperm mitochondrial efficiency. Similar protocols can be explored in animal and human infertility issues.

Phytochemical Characterization of Cannabis sativa L. Roots from Northeastern Brazil

This article describes the phytochemical study of Cannabis sativa roots from northeastern Brazil. The dried plant material was pulverized and subjected to exhaustive maceration with ethanol at room temperature, obtaining the crude ethanolic extract (Cs-EEBR). The volatile compounds were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS), which allowed to identify 22 compounds by comparing the linear retention index (LRI), the similarity index (SI) and the fragmentation pattern of the constituents with the literature. By this technique the major compounds identified were: friedelan-3-one and β-sitosterol. In addition, two fractions were obtained from Cs-EEBR by classical column chromatography and preparative thin layer chromatography. These fractions were analyzed by NMR and IR and together with the mass spectrometry data allowed to identify the compounds: epifriedelanol, friedelan-3-one, β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. The study contributed to the phytochemical knowledge of Cannabis sativa, specifically the roots, as there are few reports on the chemical constituents of this part of the plant.

Hypolipidemic potential and safety profile of the ethanolic extract and flour of the peel of Passiflora Cincinnata Mast. (Passifloraceae) in mice

Passiflora cincinnata Mast. is described as a native Caatinga species, used by nutritional and medicinal purposes, although there are still few studies and pharmacological data related to this species. This paper aims to evaluate the safety profile and hypolipidemic potential of the fruit peel of this species in mice. It was analyzed the chemical composition of ethanolic extract (EtOH-Pc) by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, and the organic and inorganic composition of flour (MF-Pc). Also were evaluated the acute toxicity, the lipid-lowering potential of these samples, through of a pretreatment (oral: 100 and 200 mg/kg), and a single treatment with the same doses, after hyperlipidemic induction with triton WR-1339, using as animal model Swiss Mus musculus mice, besides histopathological analysis. The presence of flavonoids in the extract was confirmed, mainly C-glycosides, and antioxidant minerals and pectin, in flour. No clinical signs of toxicity or death were reported in the study. In the hyperlipidemia study model used, the analyzed substances, at all doses, notably decreased the lipid levels of TC, TG, LDL-c and VLDL-c and increase the HDL-c levels in the induced hyperlipidemic mice (p < 0.05). The results of the histopathological analysis showed that in the group only induced was identified the discrete presence of hepatic steatosis, in 2 animals at the analysis of 24 h, not being visualized in the groups treated with the substances evaluated. The results obtained in the present study suggest a hypolipidemic potential of the extract and flour, obtained from the fruit peel of Passiflora cincinnata Mast.

Bis-nor-diterpene from Cnidoscolus quercifolius (Euphorbiaceae) induces tubulin depolymerization-mediated apoptosis in BRAF-mutated melanoma cells

A phytochemical investigation of cytotoxic extract and fractions of Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl led to isolation of five terpenoids, including three lupane-type triterpenes (1-3) and two bis-nor-diterpenes (4-5). Compounds 4 (phyllacanthone) and 5 (favelanone) are commonly found in this species and have unique chemical structure. Although their cytotoxic activity against cancer cells has been previously reported, the anticancer potential of these molecules remains poorly explored. In this paper, the antimelanoma potential of phyllacanthone (PHY) was described for the first time. Cell viability assay showed a promising cytotoxic activity (IC₅₀ = 40.9 μM) against chemoresistant human melanoma cells expressing the BRAF oncogenic mutation (A2058 cell line). After 72 h of treatment, PHY inhibited cell migration and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence assay showed that the pro-apoptotic effect of PHY is probably associated with tubulin depolymerization, resulting in cytoskeleton disruption of melanoma cells. Molecular docking investigation confirmed this hypothesis given that satisfactory interaction between PHY and tubulin was observed, particularly at the colchicine binding site. These results suggest PHY from C. quercifolius could be potential leader for the design of new antimelanoma drugs.

New ent-kaurene-type nor-diterpene and other compounds isolated from Annona vepretorum Mart. (Annonaceae)

A new nor-ent-kaurene diterpene and ten other compounds were isolated from Annona vepretorum stems, including four kaurene diterpenes, three alkamides, one sesquiterpene and two steroids. Their chemical structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods, including 1D-, 2D-NMR, and HRESIMS. The absolute configuration of compounds 1, 5, 8, 9 and 10 was confirmed by CD experiments. Compounds 1-5 and 8-10 were evaluated for cytotoxic activity using (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) MTT method, against three human carcinoma cell lines: human colon (HCT-116), glioblastoma (SF295) and prostate (PC3). However, all isolated compounds exhibited low cytotoxic activity.

Opuntia ficus-indica is an excellent eco-friendly biosorbent for the removal of chromium in leather industry effluents

In Brazil, the leather industry is an important economic segment moving around U$ 3 billions of dollars a year. However, high amounts of water are requested to transform skin animals into leather, causing high wastewater amounts to be consequently produced. A major problem is attached to the presence of chromium in the wastewater from the tanning process. Chromium is a heavy metal potentially toxic both to the environment and to the human health. In order to control the levels of chrome dumped into the environment, Brazilian agencies require the treatment of effluents by the generating source. Thus, this study aimed to develop an alternative method to the removal of chromium in wastewater from the leather industry using the Opuntia ficus-indica biomass as eco-friendly biosorbent. Crude waste samples were collected in a tannery stabilization pond for chromium quantification and further treatments. The powdered Opuntia ficus-indica was obtained from species collected in Pernambuco, Brazil, and its physical parameters and pH_PCZ were characterized. Adsorptions studies and acute toxicity were also carried out. The biomass remaining after the sorption was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The chromium content was above the limit allowed by the Brazilian regulatory agency. In sorption studies, biomass was able to remove 74.8% and 84.88% of Cr (III) using 2.0 g and 4.0 g of biomass, respectively. The surface of biomass is very favorable to biosorption and the chemical bindings among oxygen atoms present in the chemical components of this biomass and the heavy metal was confirmed through infrared spectrum. This study proved that Opuntia ficus-indica is effectively biosorbent to chromium, promising and with low costs for the leather industry, able to reduce its ecotoxicity as proven by chemical and biological assays.

Treatment of effluent containing thiamethoxam and efficiency evaluation of toxicity reduction

The treatment of seeds using pesticides is a widely employed technique that generates effluents with high contamination potential. In the present study, our objective was to characterize and evaluate the toxicity of washing wastewater from corn seed treaters that contained the pesticide thiamethoxam. Effluents were treated by adsorption using several adsorbent materials, namely activated vegetable carbon, corn straw, and soybean hulls, different pH, and distinct mass concentrations for each material. The activated carbon promoted a greater reduction in the chemical oxygen demand (COD). In the coagulation-flocculation treatment, with ferric chloride (FeCl₃) and poly-aluminum chloride (PAC), and using factorial planning with the concentration of FeCl₃ and the sedimentation time as independent variables, the best COD removal occurred with 850 mg L^-1 FeCl₃ and 120 min sedimentation. The treatments C (coagulation), CACA (coagulation followed by adsorption with activated vegetable carbon), and CACS (coagulation followed by adsorption with corn straw) presented the most efficacious physicochemical parameter changes. The CACA treatment showed the best result for removing thiamethoxam. Nevertheless, raw and treated effluents showed high toxicity to the bioindicators Artemia salina L. (immobility/mortality test), Eisenia fetida (avoidance test), and Allium cepa L. (cytotoxicity test). The effluents also produced a mutagenic effect for A. cepa, due to the presence of chromosomal changes. The results demonstrated the risk that this effluent can cause to the environment. These data highlight the need to investigate new technologies to reduce the physicochemical parameters, the agrochemical levels, and, in particular, the final effluent toxicity.

Involvement of serotonergic pathways in gastric dysmotility induced by fat burning nutritional supplements in mice

Fat burners are a category of nutritional supplements that are claimed to increase the metabolism and promote greater energy expenditure, leading to weight loss. However, little is known about the side effects on gastrointestinal motility. In this study, we evaluated the effect of ingestion with a fat burner named Thermbuterol® (THERM) on the gastric motility and food behavior of mice. THERM compounds were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Mice received variable doses of THERM (10, 50, 100 or 300 ​mg/kg, p.o.) or NaCl 0.15 ​M (control). Gastric emptying (GE) was assessed using the phenol red technique. Another set of mice was pretreated with intraperitoneal administration of hexamethonium (HEXA, 10 ​mg/kg), prazosin (PRAZ, 0.25 ​mg/kg), propranolol (PROP, 2 ​mg/kg), parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 ​mg/kg) or ondansetron (ONDA, 50 ​μg/kg) 30 ​min before THERM treatment for evaluation of GE. We assessed the gastrointestinal responsiveness in vitro as well as THERM's effects on food behavior. Caffeine was the major compound of THERM, identified by NMR. THERM 100 and 300 ​mg/kg decreased GE compared to the respective controls. Pretreatment with PRAZ or PROP did not prevent gastric dysmotility induced by THERM 100 ​mg/kg. However, the pretreatment with HEXA, ONDA or PCPA prevented GE delay induced by THERM. In vitro, THERM relaxed contractions in strips of longitudinal gastric fundus and duodenum. THERM also increased food intake, which was prevented by PCPA and ONDA treatments. THERM decreased GE of a liquid and increased food intake in mice, a phenomenon mediated by the autonomic nicotinic receptors and serotoninergic receptor.

Habilidades Sociais e Problemas de Comportamento de Crianças com Altas Habilidades/Superdotação

Resumo O estudo das habilidades sociais contribui para a compreensão das relações interpessoais, embora ainda haja poucos estudos que relacionem esse tema a crianças com altas habilidades/superdotação (AH/SD). Portanto, os objetivos deste estudo foram: a) descrever e comparar as habilidades sociais de crianças com AH/SD sob o ponto de vista da criança e de seus respectivos pais/responsáveis e professoras; b) descrever e comparar as habilidades sociais e os problemas de comportamento de crianças com AH/SD sob o ponto de vista de seus pais/responsáveis e professoras, considerando o sexo e comparando a importância das habilidades sociais para os dois grupos; e c) descrever a competência acadêmica das crianças segundo as professoras. Participaram dez pais/responsáveis, oito professoras e dez crianças estudantes do ensino fundamental identificados com AH/SD. Os participantes responderam ao questionário Sistema de Avaliação de Habilidades Sociais (SSRS) versão para pais, professores e alunos, e ao Questionário de Respostas Socialmente Habilidosas (QRSH), versão para pais e professores. Os resultados apontaram que as crianças apresentaram habilidades sociais acima da média para seus pais e professores, e abaixo da média no autorrelato das crianças. Entretanto, há indicativos de necessidade de atenção preventiva e de intervenção nos fatores que apresentaram déficits sociais de acordo com o relato dos três grupos de participantes em: autocontrole/civilidade; cooperação/empatia; assertividade/desenvoltura social; problemas de comportamento externalizantes e internalizantes; e hiperatividade. Tais dados possibilitam que sejam programadas intervenções preventivas, conforme indicação dos pais/responsáveis e professoras, condizentes com a necessidade apontada pelas próprias crianças para a promoção de habilidades sociais.

Inclusion of vitexin in β-cyclodextrin: preparation, characterization and expectorant/antitussive activities

The study aimed to include the isolated vitexin of Jatropha mutabilis in the β-cyclodextrin cavity to improve the solubility of this flavone. Its characterization was performed by techniques such as ¹H NMR/ROESY (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy), FT-IR (Infrared Spectroscopy with Fourier Transform), SEM (Morphological analysis of IC by Scanning Electron Microscopy) and dissolution study in vitro. In addition, the following activities were evaluated in the animal models: expectorant, phenol red dosage in bronchoalveolar lavage and antitussive, cough induced by citric acid. In the characterization of the complex, interaction between hydrogens of ring B of vitexin and (H3) of β-CD was observed, in addition to changes in morphology. In the dissolution test, an increase in the rate of dissolution of vitexin was observed in the first 30 min for the CI vitexin/β-CD when compared with vitexin. Regarding the pharmacological activity, it was observed that the inclusion complex (IC) vitexin/β-CD in the equivalent doses of 0.2, 1 and 5 mg/kg of flavone presented higher expectorant activity when compared to vitexin (p < 0.05), suggesting increased bioavailability. As for the antitussive activity, both vitexin and the complex had similar effects and were dose independent. In the toxicity test using Artemia salina, vitexin and IC vitexin/β-CD were considered non-toxic. At last, the study efficacy of vitexin/β-CD IC as an expectorant and of vitexin as antitussive. All of these data are being described for the first time.

Complexation with β-cyclodextrin enhances apoptosis-mediated cytotoxic effect of harman in chemoresistant BRAF-mutated melanoma cells

Harman, a natural β-carboline alkaloid, has recently gained considerable interest due to its anticancer properties. However, its physicochemical characteristics and poor oral bioavailability have been limiting factors for its pharmaceutical development. In this paper, we described the complexation of harman (HAR) with β-cyclodextrin (βCD) as a promising alternative to improve its solubility and consequently its cytotoxic effect in chemoresistant melanoma cells (A2058 cell line). Inclusion complexes (βCD-HAR) were prepared using a simple method and then characterized by FTIR, NMR and SEM techniques. Through in silico studies, the mechanism of complexation of HAR with βCD was elucidated in detail. Both HAR and βCD-HAR promoted cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and inhibition of cell migration in melanoma cells. Interestingly, complexation of HAR with βCD enhanced its pro-apoptotic effect by increasing of caspase-3 activity (p < 0.05), probably due to an improvement in HAR solubility. In addition, HAR and βCD-HAR sensitized A2058 cells to vemurafenib, dacarbazine and 5FU treatments, potentializing their cytotoxic activity. These findings suggest that complexation of HAR with natural polymers such as βCD can be useful to improve its bioavailability and antimelanoma activity.

ALTAS HABILIDADES/SUPERDOTAÇÃO NO ENSINO SUPERIOR: ANÁLISE DE DISSERTAÇÕES E TESES BRASILEIRAS

RESUMO Pretendeu-se realizar um estudo de revisão de dissertações e teses brasileiras sobre Altas Habilidades/Superdotação (AH/SD) no ensino superior. Para isso, efetuou-se uma busca na Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações. As teses e dissertações foram categorizadas quanto à frequência da publicação ao longo dos anos, as universidades de origem, o tipo de estudo, os objetivos, o número de participantes e os principais resultados. Foram encontradas 47 pesquisas e, a partir da leitura dos resumos, foram excluídas as que não abordavam especificamente a temática de AH/SD no contexto universitário e/ou que se repetiram, resultando no total sete, sendo cinco de mestrado e duas de doutorado realizadas entre 2011 a 2017. Concluiu-se que os temas mais abordados nas pesquisas relacionaram-se à identificação. É uma temática de interesse recente e carente de estudos que investiguem problemáticas mais amplas relativas aos estudantes universitários com AH/SD.

Low-level laser therapy attenuates lung inflammation and airway remodeling in a murine model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: Relevance to cytokines secretion from lung structural cells

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and chronic inflammatory disease with a poor prognosis and very few available treatment options. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been gaining prominence as a new and effective anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agent. Can lung inflammation and the airway remodeling be regulated by LLLT in an experimental model of IPF in C57Bl/6 mice? The present study investigated if laser attenuates cellular migration to the lungs, the airway remodeling as well as pro-fibrotic cytokines secretion from type II pneumocytes and fibroblasts. Mice were irradiated (780 nm and 30 mW) and then euthanized fifteen days after bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Lung inflammation and airway remodeling were evaluated through leukocyte counting in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and analysis of collagen in lung, respectively. Inflammatory cells in blood were also measured. For in vitro assays, bleomycin-activated fibroblasts and type II pneumocytes were irradiated with laser. The pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines level in BALF as well as cells supernatant were measured by ELISA, and the TGFβ in lung was evaluated by flow cytometry. Lung histology was used to analyze collagen fibers around the airways. LLLT reduced both migration of inflammatory cells and deposition of collagen fibers in the lungs. In addition, LLLT downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and upregulated the IL-10 secretion from fibroblasts and pneumocytes. Laser therapy greatly reduced total lung TGFβ. Systemically, LLLT also reduced the inflammatory cells counted in blood. There is no statistical difference in inflammatory parameters studied between mice of the basal group and the laser-treated mice. Data obtained indicate that laser effectively attenuates the lung inflammation, and the airway remodeling in experimental pulmonary fibrosis is driven to restore the balance between the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in lung and inhibit the pro-fibrotic cytokines secretion from fibroblasts.

Identification of flavonoids in Hymenaea martiana Hayne (Fabaceae) by HPLC-DAD-MSn analysis

Hymenaea martiana is a native tree known in Brazil as 'jatobá' and used in folk medicine to treat pain and inflammation. The aim of this work was to identify the flavonoids present in the crude ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction using HPLC-DAD and LC-MSⁿ analysis. The ethanolic extract was partitioned to obtain the ethyl acetate fraction. The analysis of astilbin content also was carried out by HPLC analysis. HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSⁿ analysis of the ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction revealed the presence of eleven peaks in the chromatograms, and all these peaks were identified: taxifolin, eucryphin, astilbin and 3 diastereoisomers, engeletin and 2 diastereoisomers, quercitrin and 2,6,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-2-benzylcoumaran-3-one. The ethyl acetate fraction had a higher astilbin concentration (151.87 µg/mL) than the ethanolic extract (40.13 µg/mL). In conclusion, the species could be considered a good source of flavonoids, which can be related to the main chemotaxonomic markers for the genus Hymenaea.

Adsorption study of heavy metals in aqueous solutions aiming at the treatment of contaminated groundwater

This study evaluates the application of the vegetal activated carbon (AC), vegetable AC impregnated with Ag and Cu (0.08% m/m) and cationic Supergel^TM SGC650H resin for adsorption of Fe³⁺ and Pb²⁺ ions in closed and batch system. The best adsorption capacities were obtained by using the cationic resin SGC650H, pH 3, temperature of 30 °C and stirring speed of 100 rpm. Thus, the kinetic and equilibrium experiments, in mono- and bicomponent, were performed using SGC650H resin, wherein the kinetic models of pseudo-first and pseudo-second order presented a good fit to the kinetic data, for mono- and bicomponent, respectively. The Langmuir isotherm adequately represented the monocomponent equilibrium data, showing maximum adsorption capacities values of 7.18 and 4.00 meq g^-1 for Fe³⁺ and Pb²⁺, respectively. An inhibitory effect between the metal species was verified by fitting the modified extended Langmuir isotherm model to the binary equilibrium data, which allowed to predict changes in the surface affinity to the adsorbent by the metal ions. Based on the observed results, the use of SGC650H resin presents great potential for water treatment systems contaminated with heavy metals.

Influence of light intensity, fertilizing and season on the cirsiliol content, a chemical marker of Leonotis nepetifolia (Lamiaceae)

Background

Leonotis nepetifolia (Family Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant from which the flavonoid cirsiliol with sedative, hypnotic, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activity has been extracted.

Methods

Seedlings were cultivated under different levels of shade in native or fertilized modes. The content of cirsiliol was measured monthly by high-performance liquid chromatography and the total phenolic content by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Monitoring of growth was carried out with the weekly measurement of height until the stabilization of growth.

Results

The application of fertilizing and/or shading does not alter significantly the cirsiliol content. However, this content varies throughout the year, reaching the peak production in the summer, independently of the treatment applied. This same profile, with production in the summer, was also verified for phenolic compounds, reaching 58.15 ± 9.35 mg of equivalents of gallic acid per g of extract in the summer, content 1.84 times greater than the content verified in winter (31.56 ± 4.09 mg of gallic acid/g of extract). Although shading and fertilizing had no effect on cirsiliol content, the results also showed a positive influence on the height and biomass of the plant, which can causes a higher yield of extractable material.

Discussion

Biotic and abiotic stresses are able to increase or decrease the production of secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds in medicinal plants and, as the stress response is peculiar to each species, cultivation studies become necessary. The present study reports by the first time the influence of shading, fertilizing and seasons in cirsiliol content in L. nepetifolia. Among analyzed variables, the seasons showed a larger influence in expression of cirsiliol and among seasons, our results showed that the summer is the ideal season for collections. In summer, the photoperiod is larger than in other seasons of the year and due to that, the plants need greater protection against the long photoperiod. For this, the plants increase the production of phenolic compounds as observed in this study. Although they do not influence the production of cirsiliol, the shading and nutrients in soil favor growth and leaf area of several plants, explaining, thus, the higher height and biomass obtained.

Total content of kaurene diterpenes in Annona vepretorum stems via 1 H qNMR: A method for speeding the identification of bioactive extracts

INTRODUCTION

Kaurene diterpenes (KDs) constitute a chemical class often found in the genus Annona with interesting biological activities. To date, chromatographic tools have been mostly used to determine KDs. Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (qNMR) has distinguished itself in quantitative estimation of natural products and is an interesting choice to assess total KD contents.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a ¹ H qNMR method for determining the total KD contents in extracts and fractions obtained from Annona vepretorum stems.

METHODOLOGY

Stems were extracted with hexane and methanol, resulting in the hexane extract (HEX-E) and the methanol extract (MeOH-E). The former was partitioned with the acid-base method to obtain the total alkaloid fraction (TA-F) and the neutral dichloromethane fraction (NDM-F). ¹ H qNMR measurements were performed on 400 MHz with samples solubilized in deuterated dimethyl sulfoxide. Quantification was carried out using the signals at 4.71 and 4.78 ppm related to hydrogens of the exocyclic double bond of the basic skeleton of KDs and gallic acid as the standard reference. The selectivity, intra- and inter-day precision, reproducibility, limit of detection, limit of quantification, and robustness of the methodology were evaluated.

RESULTS

Using the newly developed method, the total KD contents (in μg/mg) were 653.80 ± 12.15 (HEX-E), 458.90 ± 25.94 (NDM-F), 375.60 ± 27.52 (TA-F), and 315.10 ± 19.20 (MeOH-E). For determining the most promising bioactive sample, the KD contents and the sample discriminations obtained by principal component analysis were correlated to the antibacterial activity. Such approach pointed out HEX-E as a potential source of KDs.

CONCLUSION

The developed method offers a fast and simple way of determining total KD contents.

Determination of phenolic compounds, in vitro antioxidant activity and characterization of secondary metabolites in different parts of Passiflora cincinnata by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis

Ethanol extracts of different parts of Passiflora cincinnata were obtained by maceration. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were evaluated. The antioxidant activities were determined by β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching test, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH), and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging. The crude ethanol stem extract showed the highest amount of total polyphenols (45.53 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) while the highest total flavonoid contents (1.42 mg of quercetin equivalent/g) were observed in the leaf extract. The lowest IC₅₀ (25.65 μg/ml) by the DPPH method was observed for the stem extract. The ABTS method showed a significant antioxidant activity for all investigated extracts. The secondary metabolite composition of ethanol extracts was assessed by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis, leading to the identification of fourteen secondary metabolites in P. cincinnata extracts. These results showed the potentiality of this species as a source of phenolic compounds and antioxidants.

Essential Oils and Their Major Compounds in the Treatment of Chronic Inflammation: A Review of Antioxidant Potential in Preclinical Studies and Molecular Mechanisms

Inflammatory diseases result from the body's response to tissue damage, and if the resolution is not adequate or the stimulus persists, there will be progression from acute inflammation to chronic inflammation, leading to the development of cancer and neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. Due to the complexity of events that occur in inflammation associated with the adverse effects of drugs used in clinical practice, it is necessary to search for new biologically active compounds with anti-inflammatory activity. Among natural products, essential oils (EOs) present promising results in preclinical studies, with action in the main mechanisms involved in the pathology of inflammation. The present systematic review summarizes the pharmacological effects of EOs and their compounds in in vitro and in vivo models for inflammation. The research was conducted in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, BIREME, Scielo, Open Grey, and Science Direct. Based on the inclusion criteria, 30 articles were selected and discussed in this review. The studies listed revealed a potential activity of EOs and their compounds for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, especially in chronic inflammatory conditions, with the main mechanism involving reduction of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species associated with an elevation of antioxidant enzymes as well as the reduction of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Thus, this review suggests that EOs and their major compounds are promising tools for the treatment of chronic inflammation.

Phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Cnidoscolus Pohl species: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cnidoscolus is a genus belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, distributed in South American countries, such as Mexico and Brazil, which includes several species widely used in folk medicine. However, the genus is not sufficiently exploited from a chemical and pharmacological point of view.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

This paper aims to present a systematic review of known pharmacological and chemical aspects from Cnidoscolus, an important genus for South America research groups on medicinal plants. In this article, we highlight the importance of Cnidoscolus species in the search for new bioactive molecules.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review was conducted in order to collect chemical and pharmacological information on species of this genus in the last 25 years.

METHODS

Literature search was performed through specialized databases (PUBMED, LILACS, SCIELO, Science Direct and Web of Science) using different combinations of the following keywords: Cnidoscolus, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity. For the selection of the manuscripts, two independent investigators (RGOJ and CAAF) first selected the articles according to the title, then to the abstract and finally through an analysis of the full-text publication. All selected manuscripts were analyzed for year of publication, country where the research was performed, reported plant species, isolated chemical compounds and evaluated biological activities.

RESULTS

Most of the studies involving Cnidoscolus were conducted by research groups located in Brazil, Nigeria and Mexico. Regarding the annual evolution of the publications, a larger number of articles published in 2014 were observed. Flavonoids, triterpenes and diterpenes represent the main classes of secondary metabolites that have been isolated from Cnidoscolus. In terms of the pharmacological investigations, C. aconitifolius, C. chayamansa and C. quercifolius are considered the most studied species, with different pharmacological activities.

CONCLUSION

All findings indicate that Cnidoscolus is an important genus of the Euphorbiaceae family. However, considering its chemical and pharmacological importance, the studies developed with Cnidoscolus species are still limited, representing an opportunity to investigate new bioactive molecules.

Hexane extract from Spondias tuberosa (Anacardiaceae) leaves has antioxidant activity and is an anti-Candida agent by causing mitochondrial and lysosomal damages

Background

Spondias tuberosa is a plant that produces a fruit crop with high economic relevance at Brazilian Caatinga. Its roots and leaves are used in folk medicine.

Methods

Chemical composition of a hexane extract from S. tuberosa leaves was evaluated by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Antioxidant potential was investigated by DPPH and ABTS assays. Antifungal action on Candida species was evaluated determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC₅₀) and putative mechanisms were determined by flow cytometry analysis. In addition, hemolytic activity on human erythrocytes was assessed and the concentration required to promote 50% hemolysis (EC₅₀) was determined.

Results

Phytochemical analysis by TLC showed the presence of flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins, saponins and terpenes. The HPLC profile of the extract suggested the presence of gallic acid (0.28 ± 0.01 g%) and hyperoside (1.27 ± 0.01 g%). The representative ¹H NMR spectrum showed saturated and unsaturated fatty acids among the main components. The extract showed weak and moderate antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC₅₀: 234.00 μg/mL) and ABTS (IC₅₀: 123.33 μg/mL) assays, respectively. It was able to inhibit the growth of C. albicans and C. glabrata with MIC₅₀ of 2.0 and 0.078 mg/mL, respectively. The treatment of C. glabrata cells with the extract increased levels of mitochondrial superoxide anion, caused hyperpolarization of mitochondrial membrane, and compromised the lysosomal membrane. Weak hemolytic activity (EC₅₀: 740.8 μg/mL) was detected.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the pharmacological potential of the extract as antioxidant and antifungal agent, aggregating biotechnological value to this plant and stimulating its conservation.

The frailty syndrome in institutionalized elderly persons

Abstract Objective: to analyze the relationship between the level of frailty and sociodemographic and health characteristics among elderly residents of a long-term care facility (LTCF) in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. Method: this descriptive and cross-sectional study included 56 elderly persons living in a LTCF. Data were collected from April to June 2016. A questionnaire addressing sociodemographic and health profiles was used together with the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Tilburg Frailty Indicator, the Barthel Index, and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Descriptive statistics were applied. The normality of the continuous variables was tested using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Spearman’s correlation was used for the continuous variables with frailty as the dependent variable. Result: Most elderly individuals were female (57.1%); the average age was 77.77; and 35.7% were widowed. In terms of health, 55.4% presented cognitive deficit; 62.5% had depression symptoms; 75.0% were considered frail; 42.9% had suffered falls in the last 12 months; and the individuals scored an average of 68.30 in the Barthel Index. A positive correlation between the frailty score and the GDS-15 (r=0.538; p=0.00) was observed, while a negative correlation was found between frailty and the Barthel Index (r=-0.302; p=0.02). Conclusion: increased frailty among institutionalized elderly persons is correlated with the presence of depressive symptoms and inferior performance of basic activities of daily living. The results of the present study can support the planning of care provided to elderly individuals living in LTCFs and encourage broader assessments of these individuals.

Potential of Salvinia auriculata biomass as biosorbent of the Cr(III): directed chemical treatment, modeling and sorption mechanism study

In this work, the mechanism of the Cr(III) sorption by Salvinia auriculata biosorbent was studied in two stages. To understand the influence of the sorption parameters on the Cr(III) uptake, preliminary tests were performed. First, S. auriculata biomass was separately treated with base and acid solutions. Second, acid and base treatment of samples was performed based on the knowledge data base of our group. It was achieved a higher Cr(III) sorption capacity above 15 mg g-1 as associated to an increase of the micro-pores specific area and biosorbent volume. The obtained kinetic data of raw and treated biosorbents were well described by the intra-particle diffusion model. In this model, Cr(III) adsorption onto treated biomass is progressively improved with appearing of different mass transfer zones from out layer up to micro-porous layers. The equilibrium data of raw biomass were best described by the Langmuir isotherm, whereas the equilibrium data of the treated biomass were best fit by a combination of both Langmuir and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherms. At low concentrations the adsorption most likely occurred on the outer monolayer, as proposed by the Langmuir model, followed by the adsorption on the micro-porous layers, as validated by the Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm.

Study of the involved sorption mechanisms of Cr(VI) and Cr(III) species onto dried Salvinia auriculata biomass

Removal of Cr(VI) species by dried biomass of the aquatic macrophyte Salvinia auriculata was studied in order to understand the involved sorption mechanisms. Kinetic tests were carried out under the conditions such as concentration range of Cr(VI) from 50 to 250 mg L^-1 and a temperature of 30 °C. Modification of the biosorbent by the presence of Cr(VI) species was assessed by analysis of its porosity, density and infrared molecular absorption spectrum. A series of experimental approaches involving directed chemical modifications on the biosorbent surface was performed. The main functional groups involved in the sorption mechanisms were identified. The gas sorption analyser was applied and proved that a strong chemical effect of Cr(VI) species on the surface took place, resulting in a leaching organic matter with an obvious and significant increase in the porosity parameters. The intra-particle diffusion model revealed different mass transfer zones into the adsorbent during Cr(VI) removal. New combined Langmuir and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm was the best to fit the equilibrium data of Cr(VI) species removal. Finally, Cr(VI) removal was mainly mediated by a redox process where Cr(III) species were formed.

Ensino de comportamento verbal por múltiplos exemplares em uma criança com desordem do espectro da neuropatia auditiva: estudo de caso

RESUMO A Desordem do Espectro da Neuropatia Auditiva (DENA) é caracterizada pela dificuldade no estabelecimento do comportamento verbal nas modalidades de ouvinte e de falante, por uma dessincronia na condução nervosa da estimulação sonora recebida, ocasionando perdas auditivas. O implante coclear tem sido uma alternativa que estabiliza a detecção sonora, porém, discriminar e reconhecer o que se ouve e estabelecer relações com a fala irá requerer aprendizagem. Um procedimento de reconhecida eficácia no estabelecimento de repertórios verbais em crianças com pouca ou nenhuma linguagem é o Multiple Exemplar Instruction (MEI). O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a replicabilidade dos resultados obtidos com o MEI com outras populações no ensino e integração entre os repertórios de ouvir e de falar em uma criança de seis anos com DENA e implante coclear bilateral. O ensino foi conduzido com três conjuntos de estímulos, e consistiu na apresentação rotativa de respostas de ouvinte, baseadas na seleção de figuras mediante palavra ditada e, de falante, após uma palavra ditada (ecoico) e mediante a nomeação de uma figura (tato). Repetidas sondas avaliaram o desempenho nos conjuntos de estímulos. Ainda que com alguma variabilidade no responder, as respostas de seleção foram estabelecidas primeiro e as respostas de falante, gradativamente, ao longo de sucessivas sessões. As condições sob as quais o repertório de falante pode ser refinado e a generalização dos resultados para outros participantes com DENA devem ser investigadas.

Chemical constituents and antioxidant activity of the essential oil from leaves of Annona vepretorum Mart. (Annonaceae)

BACKGROUND

Annona vepretorum (AV) is a native tree from Caatinga biome (semiarid region of Brazil) popularly known as "araticum" and "pinha da Caatinga."

OBJECTIVE

This study was carried out to evaluate the chemical constituents and antioxidant activity (AA) of the essential oil from the leaves from AV (EO-Av) collected in Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh leaves of AV were cut into pieces, and subjected to distillation for 2 h in a clevenger-type apparatus. Gas chromatograph (GC) analyses were performed using a mass spectrometry/flame ionization detector. The identification of the constituents was assigned on the basis of comparison of their relative retention indices. The antioxidant ability of the EO was investigated through two in vitro models such as radical scavenging activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method and β-carotene-linoleate-model system. The positive controls (ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene) were those using the standard solutions. Assays were carried out in triplicate.

RESULTS

The oil showed a total of 21 components, and 17 were identified, representing 93.9% of the crude EO. Spathulenol (43.7%), limonene (20.5%), caryophyllene oxide (8.1%) and α-pinene (5.5%) were found to be the major individual constituents. Spathulenol and caryophyllene oxide could be considered chemotaxonomic markers of these genera. The EO demonstrated weak AA.

Assessment of the banana pseudostem as a low-cost biosorbent for the removal of reactive blue 5G dye

In this work, the removal of reactive blue 5G (RB5G) dye using the drying biomass of banana pseudostem (BPS) was investigated. The characterization of BPS particles was performed. Improvement in the RB5G dye removal performance at the following sorption conditions was evidenced: pH 1, 30°C sorption temperature and 40 rpm shaking, regardless of the particle size range. Kinetic RB5G dye sorption data obtained at better conditions fit well in an Elovich model. A combined Langmuir-BET isotherm model provides a good representation of the RB5G dye equilibrium sorption data, which shows the evidence of a physical sorption process on the BPS surface. Based on the results, the removal of RB5G dye molecules by BPS is based on a physical sorption process.

Molecular characterization of intestinal protozoa in two poor communities in the State of São Paulo, Brazil

Background

Several species of protozoa cause acute or chronic gastroenteritis in humans, worldwide. The burden of disease is particularly high among children living in developing areas of the world, where transmission is favored by lower hygienic standards and scarce availability of safe water. However, asymptomatic infection and polyparasitism are also commonly observed in poor settings. Here, we investigated the prevalence of intestinal protozoa in two small fishing villages, Porto Said (PS) and Santa Maria da Serra (SM), situated along the river Tietê in the State of São Paolo, Brazil. The villages lack basic public infrastructure and services, such as roads, public water supply, electricity and public health services.

Methods

Multiple fecal samples were collected from 88 individuals in PS and from 38 individuals in SM, who were asymptomatic at the time of sampling and had no recent history of diarrheal disease. To gain insights into potential transmission routes, 49 dog fecal samples (38 from PS and 11 from SM) and 28 river water samples were also collected. All samples were tested by microscopy and PCR was used to genotype Giardia duodenalis, Blastocystis sp., Dientamoeba fragilis and Cryptosporidium spp.

Results

By molecular methods, the most common human parasite was Blastocystis sp. (prevalence, 45% in PS and 71% in SM), followed by D. fragilis (13.6% in PS, and 18.4% in SM) and G. duodenalis (18.2% in PS and 7.9% in SM); Cryptosporidium spp. were not detected. Sequence analysis revealed large genetic variation among Blastocystis samples, with subtypes (STs) 1 and 3 being predominant, and with the notable absence of ST4. Among G. duodenalis samples, assemblages A and B were detected in humans, whereas assemblages A, C and D were found in dogs. Finally, all D. fragilis samples from humans were genotype 1. A single dog was found infected with Cryptosporidium canis. River water samples were negative for the investigated parasites.

Conclusions

This study showed a high carriage of intestinal parasites in asymptomatic individuals from two poor Brazilian villages, and highlighted a large genetic variability of Blastocystis spp. and G. duodenalis.

Fast changes in seasonal forest communities due to soil moisture increase after damming

Local changes caused by dams can have drastic consequences for ecosystems, not only because they change the water regime but also the modification on lakeshore areas. Thus, this work aimed to determine the changes in soil moisture after damming, to understand the consequences of this modification on the arboreal community of dry forests, some of the most endangered systems on the planet. We studied these changes in soil moisture and the arboreal community in three dry forests in the Araguari River Basin, after two dams construction in 2005 and 2006, and the potential effects on these forests. For this, plots of 20 m x 10 m were distributed close to the impoundment margin and perpendicular to the dam margin in two deciduous dry forests and one semi-deciduous dry forest located in Southeastern Brazil, totaling 3.6 ha sampled. Besides, soil analysis were undertaken before and after impoundment at three different depths (0-10, 20-30 and 40-50 cm). A tree (minimum DBH of 4.77 cm) community inventory was made before (TO) and at two (T2) and four (T4) years after damming. Annual dynamic rates of all communities were calculated, and statistical tests were used to determine changes in soil moisture and tree communities. The analyses confirmed soil moisture increases in all forests, especially during the dry season and at sites closer to the reservoir; besides, an increase in basal area due to the fast growth of many trees was observed. The highest turnover occurred in the first two years after impoundment, mainly due to the higher tree mortality especially of those closer to the dam margin. All forests showed reductions in dynamic rates for subsequent years (T2-T4), indicating that these forests tended to stabilize after a strong initial impact. The modifications were more extensive in the deciduous forests, probably because the dry period resulted more rigorous in these forests when compared to semideciduous forest. The new shorelines created by damming increased soil moisture in the dry season, making plant growth easier. We concluded that several changes occurred in the T0-T2 period and at 0-30 m to the impoundment, mainly for the deciduous forests, where this community turned into a "riparian-deciduous forest" with large basal area in these patches. However, unlike other transitory disturbances, damming is a permanent alteration and transforms the landscape to a different scenario, probably with major long-term consequences for the environment.

Influence of lead-doped hydroponic medium on the adsorption/bioaccumulation processes of lead and phosphorus in roots and leaves of the aquatic macrophyte Eicchornia crassipes

In this study, lead bioaccumulation by the living free-floating aquatic macrophyte Eicchornia crassipes in different hydroponic conditions with variations in phosphorus and lead concentrations was investigated. A set of growth experiments in hydroponic media doped with lead and phosphorus within a wide concentration range was performed for 32 days in a greenhouse. All experiments were carried out with periodic replacement of all nutrients and lead. The concentration of lead and nutrients in biomass was determined by synchrotron radiation-excited total reflection X-ray fluorescence. By increasing the lead concentration in the medium, a reduction in biomass growth was observed, but a higher phosphorus retention in roots and leaves was shown at lower lead concentrations. In addition, an increase in the amount of bioaccumulated lead and phosphorus in roots was observed for higher lead and phosphorus concentrations in the medium, reaching saturation values of 4 mg Pb g(-1) and 7 mg P g(-1), respectively. Four non-structural kinetic models were tested, to represent the bioaccumulation of lead and phosphorus in roots. Pseudo-second order and irreversible kinetic models described the lead bioaccumulation data well, however, an irreversible kinetic model better fitted phosphorus uptake in roots.

Dried extracts of Encholirium spectabile (Bromeliaceae) present antioxidant and photoprotective activities in vitro

The antioxidant and photoprotective activities of dried extracts from the leaves of Encholirium spectabile were investigated. It was also evaluated the total phenolic and flavonoid contents by the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated by using of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging and β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching and compared with ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) used as reference compounds. The photoprotective effect was evaluated by the spectrophotometric method. The most significant total phenolic and flavonoid contents was of 188.50 ± 27.50 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g and 129.70 ± 4.59 mg of catechin equivalent/g, respectively, for chloroform fraction (Es-CHCl3). The Es-CHCl3 also presented the best antioxidant activity (IC50 25.35 ± 4.35 μg/ml) for DPPH scavenging. The ethanol extract (Es-EtOH), Es-CHCl3 and the fraction ethyl acetate (Es-AcOEt) showed characteristic absorption bands in regions UVB and UVA in a concentration-dependent manner. Es-CHCl3 presented the highest sun protection factor SPF (8.89 ± 2.11). It shows the possibility to use this extract as sunscreen in pharmaceutical preparations.

Fitossociologia, caracterização sucessional e síndromes de dispersão da comunidade arbórea de remanescente urbano de Floresta Estacional Semidecidual em Monte Carmelo, Minas Gerais

Os parques urbanos têm uma importância estratégica para a qualidade de vida dos centros urbanos, contribuindo com importantes serviços ambientais e sociais. O conhecimento da estrutura florestal tem ajudado a subsidiar a conservação destes parques. A partir da análise fitossociológica das espécies arbóreas de um fragmento de Floresta Estacional Semidecidual (120 ha), este estudo classificou o estado de conservação deste remanescente. Foram amostrados todos os indivíduos arbóreos com CAP > 15 cm, presentes em 25 parcelas permanentes (20 × 20 m) e as espécies foram classificadas por grupos sucessionais e síndrome de dispersão. Foram registrados 798 indivíduos distribuídos em 98 espécies, pertencentes a 37 famílias. As espécies secundárias iniciais apresentaram maiores valores na riqueza de espécies, densidade e valor de importância, seguido das espécies secundárias tardias que apresentaram maior dominância e das espécies pioneiras que tiveram pouca representatividade. Quanto à síndrome de dispersão, mais de 77% da comunidade é representada por indivíduos zoocóricos. Tais resultados aumentam a valoração do Parque da Matinha reafirmando a importância deste parque urbano na conservação da fauna e flora nativa, e reforçam a necessidade de criar políticas públicas para utilização do parque pelos visitantes.

Gastroprotective activity of methanol extract and marrubiin obtained from leaves of Marrubium vulgare L. (Lamiaceae)

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the gastroprotective properties of the methanol extract and the diterpene marrubiin obtained from the leaves of M. vulgare.

Methods

Assays were performed using different protocols in mice. Studies focusing on mechanisms of gastroprotection were also undertaken.

Key findings

In the model of ethanol-induced ulcers, we observed a significant reduction in all the parameters analysed; the curative ratios obtained were 49.31 ± 0.57, 74.31 ± 0.91 and 79.86 ± 0.59 for the groups treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg of extract of M. vulgare and omeprazole (30 mg/kg), respectively. For indomethacin-induced ulcers, the percentages of ulcer inhibition were 50.32 ± 5.60, 66.24 ± 4.30, 82.17 ± 04.09 and 67.52 ± 4.38, for the groups treated with 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg M. vulgare and positive control (cimetidine), respectively. In both models, the marrubiin (25 mg/kg) produced a significant reduction in all the parameters when compared with the control group (P &lt; 0.01). There was also a significant increase in pH and mucus production in the groups treated with M. vulgare extract and marubiin. The results also demonstrated that the gastroprotection induced by the extract and marubiin is related to the activity of nitric oxide and endogenous sulfhydryls, which are important gastroprotective factors.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that the extract of M. vulgare and marrubiin displays antiulcer activity and that this effect can be partly attributed to the isolated diterpene.

Evaluation of antirotavirus activity of flavonoids

Flavonoids are dietary components and the most ubiquitous phenolic compounds found in nature, showing a range of pharmacological activities including antiviral action. This study describes the antiviral screening of 60 different flavones and flavonols against human rotavirus (Wa-1 strain) as well as their cytotoxicity in MA104 cells. Cytotoxicity was investigated by cell morphology assessment and antirotavirus activity by cytopathic effect inhibition. Results were expressed as CC₅₀ and IC₅₀, respectively, in order to calculate the selectivity index (SI = CC₅₀/IC₅₀) of each compound. Structure–activity relationships (SAR) were proposed based on antirotavirus activity.

Estrutura fitossociológica e grupos ecológicos em fragmento de floresta estacional semidecidual, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brasil

RESUMO Estudos em florestas estacionais semideciduais (FES) são necessários para caracterizar a estrutura e verificar a formação de padrões, possibilitando também comparações de composição florística entre fragmentos. Este estudo foi realizado em um fragmento de FES, em Uberaba, MG, na qual foram demarcadas 25 parcelas de 20 × 20 m, amostrando-se todos os indivíduos arbóreos vivos com circunferência do tronco a 1,30 m do solo ≥ 15 cm. Foram analisados os parâmetros fitossociológicos usuais e, também, a similaridade florística entre a área de estudo e outras áreas de FES. Foram amostrados 805 indivíduos, representados por 90 espécies, sendo Micrandra elata (Euphorbiaceae) a espécie mais importante na comunidade, seguida de Galipea jasminiflora (Rutaceae). Espécies pioneiras tiveram baixa representatividade na amostra. Além disso, a presença de indivíduos de grande porte, de espécies pouco comuns, associada à área basal de 45,8 m2 ha-1, são evidências de se tratar de floresta madura, em bom estado de conservação, representativa da condição original. A análise de similaridade entre esta e outras áreas florestais remanescentes demonstrou a formação de quatro grupos distintos, associados a regiões geográficas, com indícios de que florestas em bom estado de conservação são mais semelhantes entre si.

Características químicas do solo e estrutura de um fragmento de floresta estacional semidecidual em Ipiaçu, Minas Gerais, Brasil

RESUMO As florestas estacionais semideciduais comportam grande biodiversidade e encontramse altamente ameaçadas pelo processo de fragmentação. O presente trabalho descreve a estrutura fitossociológica das espécies arbóreas, assim como as classifica pelas síndromes de dispersão e grupos sucessionais, em um fragmento de floresta estacional semidecidual no município de Ipiaçu, MG. Para tanto foram alocadas 25 parcelas de 20 x 20 m, a partir das quais foram amostrados 837 indivíduos, distribuídos em 25 famílias e 50 espécies, sendo Fabaceae a família mais representativa, com 15 espécies. Hymenaea courbaril foi a espécie com maior VI (18%), seguida por Piptadenia gonoacantha (10,7%) e Luehea grandiflora (10,6%). Das espécies listadas, 58% são pioneiras, 21% secundárias iniciais e 21% secundárias tardias; 58% zoocóricas, 33% anemocóricas e 17% autocóricas. No fragmento constatou-se que o solo é ácido, com alto teor de Fe e Mn, com saturação por bases abaixo de 50%. A baixa riqueza de espécies (50 spp.) e o valor reduzido de área basal (15,15 m2.ha-1), aliados à alta densidade de espécies pioneiras e/ou oportunistas e às inúmeras clareiras formadas devido a ações antrópicas ao longo do tempo, principalmente o corte seletivo para extração de madeira, são forte indicadores de perturbação na área de estudo.

The use of ultrasound in the extraction of Ilex paraguariensis leaves: a comparison with maceration

The objective of this work is to discuss the main parameters that influence the sonication extraction of Ilex paraguariensis leaves. For this purpose, the extraction time, solvent polarity, solvent volume, sample mass and particle size were evaluated. Results showed that the main variable affecting the extraction process was the solvent polarity. Though in a less extent, temperature and extraction time also demonstrated to be important parameters, while the other variables did not present a significant influence on the extraction yield. The extracts at the optimized condition were compared with those obtained by maceration, in terms of mass yield and chemical composition. The major compounds identified in the extracts were caffeine and palmitic acid. Some saturated hydrocarbons such as fatty acids, fatty acid methyl esters, phytosterols, and theobromine were also identified in the fractions.