RESUMO
Mayaro fever, caused by Mayaro virus (MAYV) is a sub-lethal disease with symptoms that are easily confused with those of dengue fever, except for polyarthralgia, which may culminate in physical incapacitation. Recently, outbreaks of MAYV have been documented in metropolitan areas, and to date, there is no therapy or vaccine available. Moreover, there is no information regarding the three-dimensional structure of the viral proteins of MAYV, which is important in the search for antivirals. In this work, we constructed a three-dimensional model of protein C of MAYV by homology modelling, and this was employed in a manner similar to that of receptors in virtual screening studies to evaluate 590 molecules as prospective antiviral agents. In vitro bioassays were utilized to confirm the potential antiviral activity of the flavonoid epicatechin isolated from Salacia crassifolia (Celastraceae). The virtual screening showed that six flavonoids were promising ligands for protein C. The bioassays showed potent antiviral action of epicatechin, which protected the cells from almost all of the effects of viral infection. An effective concentration (EC50) of 0.247 µmol/mL was observed with a selectivity index (SI) of 7. The cytotoxicity assay showed that epicatechin has low toxicity, with a 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) greater than 1.723 µmol/mL. Epicatechin was found to be twice as potent as the reference antiviral ribavirin. Furthermore, a replication kinetics assay showed a strong inhibitory effect of epicatechin on MAYV growth, with a reduction of at least four logs in virus production. Our results indicate that epicatechin is a promising candidate for further testing as an antiviral agent against Mayaro virus and other alphaviruses.
Assuntos
Alphavirus/química , Antígenos Virais/química , Antivirais/farmacologia , Catequina/farmacologia , Salacia/química , Proteínas Virais/química , Alphavirus/metabolismo , Animais , Antígenos Virais/metabolismo , Antivirais/química , Antivirais/isolamento & purificação , Sítios de Ligação , Catequina/química , Catequina/isolamento & purificação , Chlorocebus aethiops , Ensaios de Triagem em Larga Escala , Humanos , Concentração Inibidora 50 , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , Ligação Proteica , Conformação Proteica em alfa-Hélice , Conformação Proteica em Folha beta , Domínios e Motivos de Interação entre Proteínas , Ribavirina/química , Ribavirina/farmacologia , Homologia Estrutural de Proteína , Interface Usuário-Computador , Células Vero , Proteínas Virais/antagonistas & inibidores , Proteínas Virais/metabolismo , Replicação Viral/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
Vaccinia virus (VACV) is an important pathogen. Although studies have shown relationships between probiotics and viruses, the effect of probiotics on VACV infection is unknown. Therefore, this work aims to investigate the probiotics effects on VACV infection. Mice were divided into four groups, two non-infected groups, one receiving the probiotic, the other one not receiving it, and two groups infected intranasally with VACV Western Reserve (VACV-WR) receiving or not receiving the probiotic. Viral titres in organs and cytokine production in the lungs were analysed. Lung samples were also subjected to histological analysis. The intake of probiotic results in reduction in viral spread with a significant decrease of VACV titer on lung, liver and brain of treated group. In addition,treatment with the probiotic results in attenuated mice lung inflammation showing fewer lesions on histological findings and decreased lethality in mice infected with VACV. The ingestion of Lactobacillus paracasei ST11 (LPST11) after VACV infection resulted in 2/9 animal lethality compared with 4/9 in the VACV group. This is the first study on probiotics and VACV interactions, providing not only information about this interaction, but also proposing a model for future studies involving probiotics and other poxvirus.
Assuntos
Lacticaseibacillus paracasei/fisiologia , Probióticos , Vaccinia virus/fisiologia , Vacínia/terapia , Animais , Citocinas/análise , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Ingestão de Alimentos , Inflamação/terapia , Pulmão/patologia , Pulmão/virologia , Masculino , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos BALB CRESUMO
Guans are large frugivorous birds that inhabit Neotropical forests and play a fundamental role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Despite their ecological importance, the natural populations of these birds are increasingly threatened by deforestation and hunting pressure. The present study was conducted in the Araripe National Forest, Ceará (Brazil), with the objective of estimating population parameters (density and total population size) in the Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris) and the White-browed Guan (Penelope jacucaca), as well as providing data on their feeding ecology, including seasonal variation and fruit morphology. The study was based on the monthly collection of data between November, 2011, and October, 2012. Population parameters were estimated using line transect surveys, while feeding ecology was studied by direct observation, and the collection of plant and fecal samples. The estimated population density of P. superciliaris was 19.17 individuals/km2 (CV=13.98%), with a mean of 0.13 sightings per 10 km walked. Penelope jacucaca was not encountered during the surveys. A total of 14 plant species were recorded in the diet of P. superciliaris, 12 by direct observation, and two from fecal samples. Fruit diameter varied from 6.3 ± 1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) to 29.9 ± 1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Yellow was the most frequent fruit color (41.6%, n=5), with two species each (16.6%) providing black, green, and red fruits. Fleshy fruits of the baccate (50.0%, n=6) and drupe (33.3%, n=4) types were the most consumed. The data on population parameters and feeding ecology collected in the present study provide an important database for the development of effective management strategies by environmental agencies for the conservation of the populations of the two guan species.
Assuntos
Comportamento Alimentar , Galliformes/fisiologia , Animais , Brasil , Dieta , Frutas/anatomia & histologia , Frutas/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Densidade Demográfica , Estações do Ano , Especificidade da Espécie , Árvores/anatomia & histologia , Árvores/crescimento & desenvolvimentoRESUMO
Abstract Guans are large frugivorous birds that inhabit Neotropical forests and play a fundamental role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Despite their ecological importance, the natural populations of these birds are increasingly threatened by deforestation and hunting pressure. The present study was conducted in the Araripe National Forest, Ceará (Brazil), with the objective of estimating population parameters (density and total population size) in the Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris) and the White-browed Guan (Penelope jacucaca), as well as providing data on their feeding ecology, including seasonal variation and fruit morphology. The study was based on the monthly collection of data between November, 2011, and October, 2012. Population parameters were estimated using line transect surveys, while feeding ecology was studied by direct observation, and the collection of plant and fecal samples. The estimated population density of P. superciliaris was 19.17 individuals/km2 (CV=13.98%), with a mean of 0.13 sightings per 10 km walked. Penelope jacucaca was not encountered during the surveys. A total of 14 plant species were recorded in the diet of P. superciliaris, 12 by direct observation, and two from fecal samples. Fruit diameter varied from 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) to 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Yellow was the most frequent fruit color (41.6%, n=5), with two species each (16.6%) providing black, green, and red fruits. Fleshy fruits of the baccate (50.0%, n=6) and drupe (33.3%, n=4) types were the most consumed. The data on population parameters and feeding ecology collected in the present study provide an important database for the development of effective management strategies by environmental agencies for the conservation of the populations of the two guan species.
Resumo Os jacus pertencem ao grupo das grandes aves florestais frugívoras e desempenham um papel fundamental na dispersão de sementes e na manutenção das florestas tropicais. Apesar da importância desse grupo, a destruição de habitats e a caça predatória vêm ameaçando as populações naturais dessas aves. Esse trabalho foi realizado na Floresta Nacional do Araripe (FLONA-Araripe) e teve como objetivos estimar os parâmetros populacionais de densidade, abundância e tamanho populacional de Penelope superciliaris (jacupemba) e Penelope jacucaca (jacucaca), coletar informações sobre a ecologia alimentar dessas espécies nas estações seca e chuvosa e caracterizar morfologicamente os frutos consumidos por essas espécies. O trabalho foi desenvolvido entre novembro de 2011 e outubro de 2012. Foram utilizados os métodos de transectos lineares, para estimar os parâmetros populacionais, além de registros visuais, coleta de material botânico e de amostras de fezes para estudar a ecologia alimentar. Foi registrada uma densidade de 19.17 indivíduos/km2 com um CV=13.98% e uma abundância de 0.13 encontros/10 km para P. superciliaris. Penelope jacucaca não foi registrada no estudo e nenhum dado ecológico foi coletado. Foi registrado também o consumo de 14 espécies de plantas, 12 delas detectadas por registros visuais e duas por amostras de fezes. O diâmetro dos frutos consumidos variou entre 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) a 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Espécies com os frutos amarelos foram as mais consumidas (n=5; 41.6%), seguidos por frutos negros, verdes e vermelhos (n=2; 16.6%) cada. Os frutos carnosos do tipo bacóide (n=6; 50%) e drupóide (n=4; 33.3%) foram os mais consumidos. Os dados sobre os parâmetros populacionais e ecologia alimentar contribuem de forma positiva na criação de estratégias de manejo e conservação, as quais poderão ser utilizadas pelos órgãos ambientais a fim de desenvolver ações de conservação que envolva estas duas espécies.
Assuntos
Animais , Comportamento Alimentar , Galliformes/fisiologia , Brasil , Dieta , Frutas/anatomia & histologia , Frutas/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Densidade Demográfica , Estações do Ano , Especificidade da Espécie , Árvores/anatomia & histologia , Árvores/crescimento & desenvolvimentoRESUMO
Guans are large frugivorous birds that inhabit Neotropical forests and play a fundamental role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Despite their ecological importance, the natural populations of these birds are increasingly threatened by deforestation and hunting pressure. The present study was conducted in the Araripe National Forest, Ceará (Brazil), with the objective of estimating population parameters (density and total population size) in the Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris) and the White-browed Guan (Penelope jacucaca), as well as providing data on their feeding ecology, including seasonal variation and fruit morphology. The study was based on the monthly collection of data between November, 2011, and October, 2012. Population parameters were estimated using line transect surveys, while feeding ecology was studied by direct observation, and the collection of plant and fecal samples. The estimated population density of P. superciliaris was 19.17 individuals/km2 (CV=13.98%), with a mean of 0.13 sightings per 10 km walked. Penelope jacucaca was not encountered during the surveys. A total of 14 plant species were recorded in the diet of P. superciliaris, 12 by direct observation, and two from fecal samples. Fruit diameter varied from 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) to 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Yellow was the most frequent fruit color (41.6%, n=5), with two species each (16.6%) providing black, green, and red fruits. Fleshy fruits of the baccate (50.0%, n=6) and drupe (33.3%, n=4) types were the most consumed. The data on population parameters and feeding ecology collected in the present study provide an important database for the development of effective management strategies by environmental agencies for the conservation of the populations of the two guan species.(AU)
Os jacus pertencem ao grupo das grandes aves florestais frugívoras e desempenham um papel fundamental na dispersão de sementes e na manutenção das florestas tropicais. Apesar da importância desse grupo, a destruição de habitats e a caça predatória vêm ameaçando as populações naturais dessas aves. Esse trabalho foi realizado na Floresta Nacional do Araripe (FLONA-Araripe) e teve como objetivos estimar os parâmetros populacionais de densidade, abundância e tamanho populacional de Penelope superciliaris (jacupemba) e Penelope jacucaca (jacucaca), coletar informações sobre a ecologia alimentar dessas espécies nas estações seca e chuvosa e caracterizar morfologicamente os frutos consumidos por essas espécies. O trabalho foi desenvolvido entre novembro de 2011 e outubro de 2012. Foram utilizados os métodos de transectos lineares, para estimar os parâmetros populacionais, além de registros visuais, coleta de material botânico e de amostras de fezes para estudar a ecologia alimentar. Foi registrada uma densidade de 19.17 indivíduos/km2 com um CV=13.98% e uma abundância de 0.13 encontros/10 km para P. superciliaris. Penelope jacucaca não foi registrada no estudo e nenhum dado ecológico foi coletado. Foi registrado também o consumo de 14 espécies de plantas, 12 delas detectadas por registros visuais e duas por amostras de fezes. O diâmetro dos frutos consumidos variou entre 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) a 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Espécies com os frutos amarelos foram as mais consumidas (n=5; 41.6%), seguidos por frutos negros, verdes e vermelhos (n=2; 16.6%) cada. Os frutos carnosos do tipo bacóide (n=6; 50%) e drupóide (n=4; 33.3%) foram os mais consumidos. Os dados sobre os parâmetros populacionais e ecologia alimentar contribuem de forma positiva na criação de estratégias de manejo e conservação, as quais poderão ser utilizadas pelos órgãos ambientais a fim de desenvolver ações de conservação que envolva estas duas espécies.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Comportamento Alimentar , /fisiologia , Brasil , Dieta , Frutas/anatomia & histologia , Frutas/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Densidade Demográfica , Estações do Ano , Especificidade da Espécie , Árvores/anatomia & histologia , Árvores/crescimento & desenvolvimentoRESUMO
Abstract Guans are large frugivorous birds that inhabit Neotropical forests and play a fundamental role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Despite their ecological importance, the natural populations of these birds are increasingly threatened by deforestation and hunting pressure. The present study was conducted in the Araripe National Forest, Ceará (Brazil), with the objective of estimating population parameters (density and total population size) in the Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris) and the White-browed Guan (Penelope jacucaca), as well as providing data on their feeding ecology, including seasonal variation and fruit morphology. The study was based on the monthly collection of data between November, 2011, and October, 2012. Population parameters were estimated using line transect surveys, while feeding ecology was studied by direct observation, and the collection of plant and fecal samples. The estimated population density of P. superciliaris was 19.17 individuals/km2 (CV=13.98%), with a mean of 0.13 sightings per 10 km walked. Penelope jacucaca was not encountered during the surveys. A total of 14 plant species were recorded in the diet of P. superciliaris, 12 by direct observation, and two from fecal samples. Fruit diameter varied from 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) to 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Yellow was the most frequent fruit color (41.6%, n=5), with two species each (16.6%) providing black, green, and red fruits. Fleshy fruits of the baccate (50.0%, n=6) and drupe (33.3%, n=4) types were the most consumed. The data on population parameters and feeding ecology collected in the present study provide an important database for the development of effective management strategies by environmental agencies for the conservation of the populations of the two guan species.
Resumo Os jacus pertencem ao grupo das grandes aves florestais frugívoras e desempenham um papel fundamental na dispersão de sementes e na manutenção das florestas tropicais. Apesar da importância desse grupo, a destruição de habitats e a caça predatória vêm ameaçando as populações naturais dessas aves. Esse trabalho foi realizado na Floresta Nacional do Araripe (FLONA-Araripe) e teve como objetivos estimar os parâmetros populacionais de densidade, abundância e tamanho populacional de Penelope superciliaris (jacupemba) e Penelope jacucaca (jacucaca), coletar informações sobre a ecologia alimentar dessas espécies nas estações seca e chuvosa e caracterizar morfologicamente os frutos consumidos por essas espécies. O trabalho foi desenvolvido entre novembro de 2011 e outubro de 2012. Foram utilizados os métodos de transectos lineares, para estimar os parâmetros populacionais, além de registros visuais, coleta de material botânico e de amostras de fezes para estudar a ecologia alimentar. Foi registrada uma densidade de 19.17 indivíduos/km2 com um CV=13.98% e uma abundância de 0.13 encontros/10 km para P. superciliaris. Penelope jacucaca não foi registrada no estudo e nenhum dado ecológico foi coletado. Foi registrado também o consumo de 14 espécies de plantas, 12 delas detectadas por registros visuais e duas por amostras de fezes. O diâmetro dos frutos consumidos variou entre 6.3±1.35 mm (Miconia albicans) a 29.9±1.7 mm (Psidium sp.). Espécies com os frutos amarelos foram as mais consumidas (n=5; 41.6%), seguidos por frutos negros, verdes e vermelhos (n=2; 16.6%) cada. Os frutos carnosos do tipo bacóide (n=6; 50%) e drupóide (n=4; 33.3%) foram os mais consumidos. Os dados sobre os parâmetros populacionais e ecologia alimentar contribuem de forma positiva na criação de estratégias de manejo e conservação, as quais poderão ser utilizadas pelos órgãos ambientais a fim de desenvolver ações de conservação que envolva estas duas espécies.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Pain is a common complaint in women with endometriosis and can be influenced by many variables, including sleep disorders; however, no data are available on the sleep quality of women with endometriosis or on the correlation between sleep quality and pain. METHODS: The 510 volunteers included in this study were divided into two groups: 257 women with a laparoscopic and histopathological diagnosis of endometriosis and 253 women with no history of endometriosis and no endometriosis-related symptoms. The volunteers answered two questionnaires: the Post-Sleep Inventory to evaluate sleep quality and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to assess their level of physical activity. Pain was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and women were also submitted to a physical examination, during which their pain threshold was assessed at 20 different body sites. RESULTS: Sleep quality was significantly poorer in women with endometriosis compared to women without the disease. The pain threshold was significantly lower in the greater trochanter and abdomen in women with endometriosis when compared to women without the disease; however, there was no difference in VAS pain score between the groups. The higher the VAS pain score, the lower the Post-Sleep Inventory score. Additionally, there was a significant positive correlation between the pain threshold at some body sites and sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS: Sleep quality was poorer and the pain threshold at certain body sites was lower in the group of women with endometriosis.
Assuntos
Endometriose/fisiopatologia , Limiar da Dor/fisiologia , Sono/fisiologia , Adulto , Feminino , Humanos , Medição da Dor , Qualidade de Vida , Inquéritos e QuestionáriosRESUMO
AIM: To analyse the effect of calcium hydroxide paste, endodontic irrigants and time of application on the bond strength of fibre posts to root canal dentine. METHODOLOGY: Seventy bovine incisors were divided into 7 groups according to removal of calcium hydroxide and distilled water (CHW) (immediate - I; 21 days - 21 days; 6 months - 6 months) and endodontic irrigant (1% sodium hypochlorite - SH; 1% sodium hypochlorite + 17% EDTA - SHE). Fibre posts were cemented (RelyX U100), after which the roots were serially sectioned and submitted to a micro-push-out test. Data were analysed using two-way anova followed by the Tukey's and the Dunnett's tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The CHW groups were not significantly different from the control group in 13 of the 18 associated factors (P > 0.05). There were significant reductions in bond strength in the cervical (P = 0.0216) and middle (P = 0.0017) thirds of the root at 6 months in groups irrigated with SH. Irrigation with SHE reduced the bond strength significantly in the middle (P = 0.0488) and apical (P = 0.0252) thirds of the roots in the immediate groups and in the middle third (P = 0.0287) in the 21-day group. Bond strength was greater in the cervical than in the apical thirds of all immediate and 21-day groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Bond strength of groups that received CH paste was similar to that found in the control group in 13 of the 18 associated factors. EDTA and SH reduced bond strength in specimens in the immediate (middle and apical thirds) and 21-day (middle third) groups. There was a significant reduction in bond strength in the groups irrigated with SH and tested at 6 months (cervical and middle thirds). There was a predominance of adhesive failures between resin cement and dentine in all groups.
Assuntos
Hidróxido de Cálcio/química , Colagem Dentária , Cavidade Pulpar/ultraestrutura , Dentina/ultraestrutura , Técnica para Retentor Intrarradicular/instrumentação , Irrigantes do Canal Radicular/química , Adesividade , Animais , Bovinos , Cimentação/métodos , Análise do Estresse Dentário/instrumentação , Ácido Edético/química , Cura Luminosa de Adesivos Dentários/métodos , Distribuição Aleatória , Cimentos de Resina/química , Preparo de Canal Radicular/instrumentação , Preparo de Canal Radicular/métodos , Hipoclorito de Sódio/química , Estresse Mecânico , Propriedades de Superfície , Temperatura , Fatores de Tempo , Ápice Dentário/ultraestrutura , Colo do Dente/ultraestrutura , Água/químicaRESUMO
The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity in vitro of ethanolic extracts of Banisteriopsis anisandra. Tests were performed using the extracts overlay method in the culture medium for phytopathogenic fungi Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum, and disk diffusion for the microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Ethanolic extracts from leaves were prepared by maceration (extract I) and decoction (extract II) at 430.0, 215.0 and 107.5 mg/mL. The growth inhibition of R. solani and F. oxysporum was determined by calculating the mycelia growth speed rate (MGSR) and, in relation C. albicans and S. aureus, it was determined by measuring the inhibition halos. Extracts that caused significant inhibition were also tested at 86.0, 64.5, 43.0 and 21.5 mg/mL for C. albicans and S. aureus. Both extracts showed inhibitory activity on the microorganisms studied. Rizoctonia solani showed lower MGSR in the presence of extract II (107.5 mg/mL) and Fusarium oxysporum showed slight MGSR reduction in the presence of extract I (107.5 mg/mL) and II (107.5 and 215 mg/mL). Ethanolic extracts I and II inhibited the growth of C. albicans, with the highest rates of inhibition observed in the presence of extract II (215.0 mg/mL). For S. aureus, the highest inhibitory activity was observed in the presence of ethanolic extract II, prepared by decoction at 430.0 mg/mL. Results showed a promising antimicrobial activity of extracts of B. anisandra, which may contribute to further studies leading to a future development of medicines to treat human and plant diseases caused by these organisms.
O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana in vitro de extratos etanólicos de Banisteriopsis anisandra. Os testes foram realizados utilizando o método de sobreposição de extratos em meio de cultura para fungos fitopatogênicos Rhizoctonia solani e Fusarium oxysporum e de difusão em disco para os microrganismos Staphylococcus aureus e Candida albicans. Foram testados de extratos etanólicos de folhas preparados por maceração (extrato I) e decocção (extrato II), nas concentrações de 430,0; 215,0 e 107,5 mg/mL. A inibição do crescimento de R. solani e F. oxysporum foi determinada pelo cálculo do índice de velocidade de crescimento micelial (IVCM) e de C. albicans e S. aureus, por meio da medida da halos de inibição. Os extratos que causaram inibição significativa também foram testados nas concentrações de 86,0; 64,5; 43,0 e 21,5 mg/mL para C. albicans e S. aureus. Ambos os extratos mostraram atividade inibitória sobre os microrganismos estudados. Rizoctonia solani apresentou menor IVCM na presença do extrato II (107,5 mg/mL) e Fusarium oxysporum apresentou discreta redução no IVCM na presença do extrato I (107,5 mg/mL) e II (107,5 e 215 mg/mL). Extratos etanólicos I e II inibiram o crescimento de C. albicans, com as maiores taxas de inibição observadas na presença do extrato II (215,0 mg/mL). Para S. aureus a maior atividade inibitória foi observada na presença do extrato II, na concentração de 430 mg/mL. Os resultados mostraram promissora atividade antimicrobiana de extratos de B. anisandra, o que pode contribuir para estudos futuros visando o desenvolvimento de medicamentos para doenças humanas e de plantas causadas por estes microrganismos.
Assuntos
Anti-Infecciosos/análise , Plantas Medicinais/classificação , Banisteriopsis/efeitos adversos , Etanol/análiseRESUMO
Amblyomin-X is a Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (Kunitz-type SPI) designed from the cDNA library of the Amblyomma cajennense tick, which displays in vivo anti-tumor activities. Here, the mechanisms of actions of Amblyomin-X in vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)-induced angiogenesis were characterized. Topical application of Amblyomin-X (10 or 100 ng/10 µl; each 48 h) inhibited VEGF-A-induced (10 ng/10 µl; each 48 h) angiogenesis in the dorsal subcutaneous tissue in male Swiss mice. Moreover, similar effect was observed in the VEGF-A-induced angiogenesis in the chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Additional in vitro assays in t-End cells showed that Amblyomin-X treatment delayed the cell cycle, by maintaining them in G0/G1 phase, and inhibited cell proliferation and adhesion, tube formation and membrane expression of the adhesion molecule platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1), regardless of mRNA synthesis. Together, results herein reveal the role of Kunitz-type SPI on in vivo VEGF-A-induced angiogenesis, by exerting modulatory actions on endothelial cell proliferation and adhesion, especially on membrane expression of PECAM-1. These data provide further mechanisms of actions of Kunitz-type SPI, corroborating their relevance as scientific tools in the design of therapeutic molecules.
Assuntos
Inibidores da Angiogênese/farmacologia , Células Endoteliais/efeitos dos fármacos , Neovascularização Patológica/tratamento farmacológico , Neovascularização Fisiológica/efeitos dos fármacos , Proteínas e Peptídeos Salivares/farmacologia , Inibidores de Serina Proteinase/farmacologia , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular/metabolismo , Inibidores da Angiogênese/genética , Inibidores da Angiogênese/metabolismo , Animais , Proteínas de Artrópodes/genética , Proteínas de Artrópodes/metabolismo , Proteínas de Artrópodes/farmacologia , Adesão Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Linhagem Celular Transformada , Proliferação de Células/efeitos dos fármacos , Embrião de Galinha , Membrana Corioalantoide/efeitos dos fármacos , Membrana Corioalantoide/metabolismo , Células Endoteliais/metabolismo , Inibidores do Fator Xa , Ixodidae/metabolismo , Masculino , Camundongos , Molécula-1 de Adesão Celular Endotelial a Plaquetas/genética , Molécula-1 de Adesão Celular Endotelial a Plaquetas/metabolismo , Proteínas Recombinantes/metabolismo , Proteínas Recombinantes/farmacologia , Fase de Repouso do Ciclo Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Proteínas e Peptídeos Salivares/genética , Proteínas e Peptídeos Salivares/metabolismo , Tela Subcutânea/efeitos dos fármacos , Tela Subcutânea/metabolismoRESUMO
High performance liquid chromatography was used in order to detect cheese whey in samples of raw milk preserved with Bronopol®. Six samples were collected and divided in 45 aliquots of 40mL. From these, 15 were used as control and stored frozen, 15 were added with Bronopol® and stored at 7ºC, and the other 15 were added with Bronopol® and stored at 30ºC. In all groups, five levels of cheese whey addition (0, 2, 5, 10, and 20 percent) were tested. The samples were submitted to high performance liquid chromatography on the 2nd, 4th, and 8th days of storage. A completely random design was used, following the factorial scheme (5x3x3) and the results were compared through the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. There was no difference among the treatments (P>0.05), which allows the conclusion that raw milk preserved with Bronopol® may be used for the determination of cheese whey addition in milk through high performance liquid chromatography.
O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a viabilidade do uso de amostras de leite cru conservadas com Bronopol® na pesquisa de soro de queijo por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Seis amostras foram coletadas e subdivididas em 45 alíquotas de 40mL. Destas, 15 compuseram o grupo controle e foram armazenadas sob congelamento, 15 amostras foram adicionadas de Bronopol® e armazenadas a 7ºC e outras 15 foram adicionadas de bronopol e estocadas a 30º C. Em todos os grupos, cinco porcentagens de soro de queijo foram adicionados, 0, 2, 5, 10 e 20 por cento. As amostras foram submetidas à cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência no segundo, quarto e oitavo dias de armazenamento. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com os tratamentos em esquema fatorial 5x3x3 e os resultados comparados por meio do teste não paramétrico de Kruskal Wallis. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) entre os tratamentos, concluindo-se que é possível utilizar amostras de leite cru conservadas com Bronopol® para pesquisa de soro de queijo em leite por CLAE.
RESUMO
High performance liquid chromatography was used in order to detect cheese whey in samples of raw milk preserved with Bronopol®. Six samples were collected and divided in 45 aliquots of 40mL. From these, 15 were used as control and stored frozen, 15 were added with Bronopol® and stored at 7ºC, and the other 15 were added with Bronopol® and stored at 30ºC. In all groups, five levels of cheese whey addition (0, 2, 5, 10, and 20 percent) were tested. The samples were submitted to high performance liquid chromatography on the 2nd, 4th, and 8th days of storage. A completely random design was used, following the factorial scheme (5x3x3) and the results were compared through the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. There was no difference among the treatments (P>0.05), which allows the conclusion that raw milk preserved with Bronopol® may be used for the determination of cheese whey addition in milk through high performance liquid chromatography.(AU)
O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a viabilidade do uso de amostras de leite cru conservadas com Bronopol® na pesquisa de soro de queijo por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Seis amostras foram coletadas e subdivididas em 45 alíquotas de 40mL. Destas, 15 compuseram o grupo controle e foram armazenadas sob congelamento, 15 amostras foram adicionadas de Bronopol® e armazenadas a 7ºC e outras 15 foram adicionadas de bronopol e estocadas a 30º C. Em todos os grupos, cinco porcentagens de soro de queijo foram adicionados, 0, 2, 5, 10 e 20 por cento. As amostras foram submetidas à cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência no segundo, quarto e oitavo dias de armazenamento. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com os tratamentos em esquema fatorial 5x3x3 e os resultados comparados por meio do teste não paramétrico de Kruskal Wallis. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) entre os tratamentos, concluindo-se que é possível utilizar amostras de leite cru conservadas com Bronopol® para pesquisa de soro de queijo em leite por CLAE.(AU)
Assuntos
Queijo/análise , Conservação de Alimentos , CromatografiaRESUMO
Several sesquiterpene lactone were synthesized and their inhibitive activities on phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) from Bothrops jararacussu venom were evaluated. Compounds Lac01 and Lac02 were efficient against PLA(2) edema-inducing, enzymatic and myotoxic activities and it reduces around 85% of myotoxicity and around 70% of edema-inducing activity. Lac05-Lac08 presented lower efficiency in inhibiting the biological activities studied and reduce the myotoxic and edema-inducing activities around only 15%. The enzymatic activity was significantly reduced. The values of inhibition constants (K(I)) for Lac01 and Lac02 were approximately 740 µM, and for compounds Lac05-Lac08 the inhibition constants were approximately 7.622-9.240 µM. The enzymatic kinetic studies show that the sesquiterpene lactones inhibit PLA(2) in a non-competitive manner. Some aspects of the structure-activity relationships (topologic, molecular and electronic parameters) were obtained using ab initio quantum calculations and analyzed by chemometric methods (HCA and PCA). The quantum chemistry calculations show that compounds with a higher capacity of inhibiting PLA(2) (Lac01-Lac04) present lower values of highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy and molecular volume (VOL) and bigger values of hydrophobicity (LogP). These results indicate some topologic aspects of the binding site of sesquiterpene lactone derivatives and PLA(2).
Assuntos
Bothrops , Inibidores Enzimáticos/síntese química , Inibidores Enzimáticos/farmacologia , Inibidores de Fosfolipase A2 , Sesquiterpenos de Eudesmano/síntese química , Sesquiterpenos de Eudesmano/farmacologia , Animais , Sítios de Ligação , Venenos de Crotalídeos/química , Antagonismo de Drogas , Edema/induzido quimicamente , Edema/patologia , Membro Posterior , Injeções Intramusculares , Lactonas/síntese química , Lactonas/farmacologia , Masculino , Camundongos , Músculo Esquelético/efeitos dos fármacos , Músculo Esquelético/enzimologia , Músculo Esquelético/patologia , Necrose/induzido quimicamente , Necrose/patologia , Fosfolipases A2/isolamento & purificação , Relação Estrutura-AtividadeRESUMO
Pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) and PspC are virulence factors that are involved in the adhesion of Streptococcus pneumoniae to epithelial cells and/or evasion from the immune system. Here, the immune responses induced by mucosal vaccines composed of both antigens as recombinant proteins or delivered by Lactobacillus casei were evaluated. None of the PspC vaccines protected mice against an invasive challenge with pneumococcal strain ATCC 6303. On the other hand, protection was observed for immunization with vaccines composed of PspA from clade 5 (PspA5 or L. casei expressing PspA5) through the intranasal route. The protective response was distinguished by a Th1 profile with high levels of immunoglobulin G2a production, efficient complement deposition, release of proinflammatory cytokines, and infiltration of neutrophils. Intranasal immunization with PspA5 elicited the highest level of protection, characterized by increased levels of secretion of interleukin-17 and gamma interferon by lung and spleen cells, respectively, and low levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha in the respiratory tract.
Assuntos
Proteínas de Bactérias/imunologia , Vacinas Pneumocócicas/administração & dosagem , Vacinas Pneumocócicas/imunologia , Pneumonia Pneumocócica/prevenção & controle , Streptococcus pneumoniae/imunologia , Administração Intranasal , Animais , Anticorpos Antibacterianos/imunologia , Proteínas de Bactérias/genética , Células Cultivadas , Citocinas/metabolismo , Feminino , Vetores Genéticos , Lacticaseibacillus casei/genética , Leucócitos Mononucleares/imunologia , Pulmão/imunologia , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos C57BL , Dados de Sequência Molecular , Neutrófilos/imunologia , Análise de Sequência de DNA , Baço/imunologia , Vacinas Sintéticas/genética , Fatores de Virulência/imunologiaRESUMO
Hydroquinone (HQ) is naturally found in the diet, drugs, as an environmental contaminant and endogenously generated after benzene exposure. Considering that HQ alters the immune system and its several source of exposures in the environment, we hypothesized that prolonged exposure of HQ could affect the course of an immune-mediated inflammatory response. For this purpose, male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally exposed to vehicle or HQ once a day, for 22 days with a 2-day interval every 5 days. On day 10 after exposure with vehicle or HQ, animals were ovalbumin (OA)-sensitized and OA-aerosolized challenged on day 23. HQ exposure did not alter the number of circulating leukocytes but impaired allergic inflammation, evidenced by lower number of leukocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid 24h after OA-challenge. Reduced force contraction of ex vivo tracheal segments upon OA-challenge and impaired mesentery mast cell degranulation after in situ OA-challenge were also detected in tissues from HQ exposed animals. The OA-specificity on the decreased responses was corroborated by normal trachea contraction and mast cell degranulation in response to compound 48/80. In fact, lower levels of circulating OA-anaphylactic antibodies were found in HQ exposed rats, as assessed by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis assay. The reduced level of OA-anaphylactic antibody was not dependent on lower number or proliferation of lymphocytes. Nevertheless, lower expression of the co-stimulatory molecules CD6 and CD45R on OA-activated lymphocytes from HQ exposed rats indicate the interference of HQ exposure with signaling of the humoral response during allergic inflammation. Together, these data indicate specific effects of HQ exposure manifested during an immune host defense.
Assuntos
Alveolite Alérgica Extrínseca/patologia , Poluentes Ambientais/toxicidade , Hidroquinonas/toxicidade , Alveolite Alérgica Extrínseca/fisiopatologia , Animais , Antígenos CD/biossíntese , Antígenos de Diferenciação de Linfócitos T/biossíntese , Líquido da Lavagem Broncoalveolar/citologia , Degranulação Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Proliferação de Células/efeitos dos fármacos , Citometria de Fluxo , Antígenos Comuns de Leucócito/biossíntese , Contagem de Leucócitos , Linfócitos/efeitos dos fármacos , Linfócitos/metabolismo , Masculino , Mastócitos/efeitos dos fármacos , Mastócitos/ultraestrutura , Contração Muscular/efeitos dos fármacos , Músculo Liso/efeitos dos fármacos , Infiltração de Neutrófilos/efeitos dos fármacos , Ovalbumina/imunologia , Anafilaxia Cutânea Passiva/imunologia , Ratos , Ratos Wistar , Baço/efeitos dos fármacos , Baço/patologia , Traqueia/efeitos dos fármacos , Traqueia/fisiologiaRESUMO
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a versatile technique that permits the imaging of surfaces and generates topographical images from a variety of materials. Due to the fact that AFM requires minimum sample manipulation, it is a valuable tool for studying biological materials such as cells, DNA, bacteria and viruses. The aim of the present study was to standardize the AFM technique as a diagnostic tool for detection of naturally occurring orthopoxviruses. The samples analyzed were collected during natural outbreaks of Vaccinia virus (VACV) in dairy cattle in Brazil. These viruses are zoonotic infections; and therefore safe manipulation of all samples is required. The AFM technique would provide a more secure way to diagnose infection. By using the "in air" AFM technique after purification and inactivation process, relatively crude preparations of viruses were visualized rapidly. Details for efficient sample preparation and AFM imaging are described. The AFM technique provides a rapid and biosecure tool for the diagnosis of emerging orthopoxviruses and has potential as a tool for screening bioterrorism samples.
Assuntos
Doenças dos Bovinos/diagnóstico , Microscopia de Força Atômica , Vaccinia virus/isolamento & purificação , Vacínia/diagnóstico , Animais , Bioterrorismo/prevenção & controle , Brasil/epidemiologia , Bovinos , Doenças dos Bovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/virologia , Surtos de Doenças , Humanos , Vacínia/epidemiologia , Vacínia/veterináriaRESUMO
The incidence of seasonal dermatitis was studied in a Hampshire Down flock on a farm in southern Brazil. Epidemiological data, clinical signs and macroscopic pathology were obtained by visiting the farm. Histological lesions were studied in skin biopsies of affected sheep. Biting insects were collected from January to April 2005 in an attempt to identify the etiological agent of the disease. Disease prevalence was 40%; the age of the affected animals was variable. Disease occurred from December to March, some animals had lesions for the entire year. Clinical signs include pruritus on the ears, around the eyes and ventral abdomen. Initially erythema and small red papules were seen, followed by alopecia and crust formation. Histologically the lesions were characterized by perivascular eosinophilic dermatitis. Hyperkeratosis and acanthosis were observed in the chronic lesions. Both Anopheles albitarsis and Culicoides insignis were captured during the study. C. insignis bites caused pruritus in sheep. Both types of insects were caught when they approached the sheep baits approximately 30min after sunset. Results suggested that the disease occurred as a result of an immediate hypersensitivity reaction to C. insignis.
Assuntos
Ceratopogonidae/fisiologia , Dermatite/veterinária , Hipersensibilidade/veterinária , Estações do Ano , Doenças dos Ovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Ovinos/parasitologia , Animais , Brasil/epidemiologia , Ceratopogonidae/classificação , Dermatite/parasitologia , Dermatite/patologia , Hipersensibilidade/parasitologia , Hipersensibilidade/patologia , Ovinos/parasitologia , Doenças dos Ovinos/patologia , Pele/patologiaRESUMO
A porous 3D scaffold was developed to support and enhance the differentiation process of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into osteoblasts in vitro. The 3D scaffold was made with chitosan, gelatin and chondroitin and it was crosslinked by EDAC. The scaffold physicochemical properties were evaluated. SEM revealed the high porosity and interconnection of pores in the scaffold; rheological measurements show that the scaffold exhibits a characteristic behavior of strong gels. The elastic modulus found in compressive tests of the crosslinked scaffold was about 50 times higher than the non-crosslinked one. After 21 days, the 3D matrix submitted to hydrolytic degradation loses above 40% of its weight. MSC were collected from rat bone marrow and seeded in chitosan-gelatin-chondroitin 3D scaffolds and in 2D culture plates as well. MSC were differentiated into osteoblasts for 21 days. Cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity were followed weekly during the osteogenic process. The osteogenic differentiation of MSC was improved in 3D culture as shown by MTT assay and alkaline phosphatase activity. On the 21st day, bone markers, osteopontin and osteocalcin, were detected by the PCR analysis. This study shows that the chitosan-gelatin-chondroitin 3D structure provides a good environment for the osteogenic process and enhances cellular proliferation.
Assuntos
Quitosana/química , Condroitina/química , Gelatina/química , Células-Tronco Mesenquimais/citologia , Células-Tronco Mesenquimais/fisiologia , Osteoblastos/citologia , Osteoblastos/fisiologia , Osteogênese/fisiologia , Animais , Substitutos Ósseos/química , Técnicas de Cultura de Células/métodos , Diferenciação Celular , Células Cultivadas , Força Compressiva , Elasticidade , Teste de Materiais , Porosidade , Ratos , Ratos Wistar , Engenharia Tecidual/métodosRESUMO
Avaliou-se o comportamento do mercado consumidor de carne suína e seus derivados em Belo Horizonte. Foram entrevistados 401 consumidores, homens e mulheres, maiores de 19 anos de idade, mantendo-se a proporcionalidade observada no censo populacional. Além de sexo e faixa etária, escolaridade, ocupação e renda familiar foram levantadas para compor os fatores condicionantes da pesquisa. A carne suína in natura é consumida até três vezes por semana pela maioria da população (61,6 por cento), em função de seu sabor e versatilidade. A compra costuma ser feita num mesmo estabelecimento comercial, sendo preferidos os cortes feitos na hora. O consumo de derivados da carne suína é maior que o da carne in natura em razão da grande variedade de produtos. Os consumidores acreditam que a carne suína in natura e derivados sejam perigosos à saúde pelo excesso de gordura ou de colesterol (38,4 por cento) e por transmitir doenças (27,8 por cento). Sexo, idade e renda familiar têm influência no consumo, mas não escolaridade e ocupação. As marcas dos produtos derivados aumentam a confiabilidade e indicam a origem, para a maioria dos consumidores. A população, embora mais atenta aos conceitos de alimentação saudável e segura, não conhece o significado e a função da rastreabilidade e certificação de origem dos produtos. Para aumentar o consumo e justificar a criação de programa de certificação da carne suína e derivados em Minas Gerais, é necessário campanha dirigida de marketing para eliminar os preconceitos em relação a estes produtos.
Assuntos
Carne , Pesquisa Comportamental/estatística & dados numéricos , Comportamento do Consumidor/estatística & dados numéricos , SuínosRESUMO
Avaliou-se o comportamento do mercado consumidor de carne suína e seus derivados em Belo Horizonte. Foram entrevistados 401 consumidores, homens e mulheres, maiores de 19 anos de idade, mantendo-se a proporcionalidade observada no censo populacional. Além de sexo e faixa etária, escolaridade, ocupação e renda familiar foram levantadas para compor os fatores condicionantes da pesquisa. A carne suína in natura é consumida até três vezes por semana pela maioria da população (61,6%), em função de seu sabor e versatilidade. A compra costuma ser feita num mesmo estabelecimento comercial, sendo preferidos os cortes feitos na hora. O consumo de derivados da carne suína é maior que o da carne in natura em razão da grande variedade de produtos. Os consumidores acreditam que a carne suína in natura e derivados sejam perigosos à saúde pelo excesso de gordura ou de colesterol (38,4%) e por transmitir doenças (27,8%). Sexo, idade e renda familiar têm influência no consumo, mas não escolaridade e ocupação. As marcas dos produtos derivados aumentam a confiabilidade e indicam a origem, para a maioria dos consumidores. A população, embora mais atenta aos conceitos de alimentação saudável e segura, não conhece o significado e a função da rastreabilidade e certificação de origem dos produtos. Para aumentar o consumo e justificar a criação de programa de certificação da carne suína e derivados em Minas Gerais, é necessário campanha dirigida de marketing para eliminar os preconceitos em relação a estes produtos.(AU)
This study aimed to assess the behavior of the consumer in relation to pork and pork products. Four hundred and one consumers, men and women over 19 years old, were randomly sampled from the residents of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, to supply information about pork and pork products consumption, besides school background, occupation and family income. Consumption of fresh pork was directly affected by concepts related to health. The consumers considered pork eating dangerous to health due to an excess of fat, high level of cholesterol and the possibility of diseases transmission. The results suggest that population, even worried about the concepts of healthy and safety feeding, do not know the meaning and the function of the programs of meat quality and origin certification. The importance of the trademarks, which provide reliability and quality of the product, was emphasized. In order to create a program on the certification of pork and pork products in the State of Minas Gerais, it is necessary to run an effective campaign against the pork prejudice.