bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk quality of Jersey cows kept on winter pasture supplemented or not with concentrate
Authors: Gonzalez Helenice de Lima , Velho Ione Maria Pereira Haygert , Silva Marcelo Abreu da , Medeiros Renato Borges de , Paim Nilton Rodrigues , Nörnberg José Laerte
Published: December 2009

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of the use of supplementation in pasture cultivated with Avena strigosa (black oats), Lolium multiflorum (ryegrass) and Vicia sativa L. (common vetch) on the composition and somatic cells count (SCC) of Jersey cow milk. Eight cows of the Jersey breed were separated by milk production, lactation period and live weight and were randomly blocked into two homogeneous groups (one with supplementation and other only on pasture), in a randomized complete design. Both groups were allowed to pasture for about 7 hours per day in a rotational grazing system in strips, with a one-day occupation period. The supplemented group was fed daily with 8 kg of supplement made of soy bean meal, soy shells, calcium limestone and mineral salt. The results showed significant differences between the two groups, because the percentage of total solids, protein and milk fat were higher in the supplemented cows. The lactose percentage was not influenced by the supplement intake. The somatic cell count, although there was a lower statistical difference for the group on pasture, showed small numerical oscillation between the groups and therefore should not be considered an effect of supplementation. The supplement supply to Jersey cows during lactation caused an increase in the total milk solid percentage, because it raised the fat and protein concentration.
Condição corporal ao parto e perfil metabólico de cabras alpinas no início da lactação
Authors: Barbosa Larissa Pires , Rodrigues Marcelo Teixeira , Guimarães José Domingos , Maffili Vitor Valério , Amorim Lincoln da Silva , Garcez Neto Américo Fróes
Published: December 2009

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da condição corporal ao parto sobre alguns metabólitos sanguíneos em cabras no início da lactação. As cabras (68 no total) foram distribuídas em três grupos de acordo com o escore da condição corporal (ECC) ao parto: entre 1,00 e 2,75 (animais magros); entre 2,75 e 3,50 (condição corporal intermediária); e entre 3,50 e 5,00 (animais gordos). O experimento foi realizado nos primeiros 60 dias de lactação e as coletas de sangue, após o parto e semanalmente até a oitava semana de lactação. Foram feitas análises para determinação das concentrações de ácidos graxos não-esterificados (AGNE), beta-hidroxibutirato (BHBA), glicose, colesterol total e lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL). As concentrações plasmáticas dos metabólitos não diferiram entre os grupos. As concentrações de AGNE, nos animais dos três grupos, ao parto e nas oito primeiras semanas de lactação, foram de 658,46 e 232,90 mg/dL, respectivamente, e os valores de BHBA ao parto, de 10,31 ± 3,0 mg/dL para os animais magros; 6,88 ± 0,9 mg/dL para os intermediários; e 4,21 ± 0,8 mg/dL para os animais gordos. Os valores de glicose ao parto foram de 112,54 ± 15,4 mg/dL para os animais magros; 90,93 ± 13,5 mg/dL para os animais intermediários; e 132,47 ± 26,7 mg/dL para os animais gordos. Os valores médios de colesterol total e de HDL nas oito primeiras semanas pós-parto foram de 109,01 ± 2,5 e 54,9 ± 1,39 mg/dL para os animais magros; 83,0 ± 21,7 e 56,0 ± 1,30 mg/dL para os intermediários; e 84,3 23,9 e 54,5 ± 1,93 mg/dL para os gordos. As alterações no metabolismo energético de cabras leiteiras de média produção diminuem, independentemente da condição corporal ao parto, quando fornecida dieta de alta qualidade e com altos níveis de energia.
Níveis e frequência de suplementação de novilhos de corte a pasto na estação seca
Authors: Simioni Fabiano Luís , Andrade Ivo Francisco de , Ladeira Márcio Machado , Gonçalves Tarcisio de Moraes , Mata Júnior João Irineo da , Campos Fabrício Rodrigues
Published: December 2009

Objetivou-se avaliar os níveis de suplementação proteico-energética, oferecida em diferentes frequências, a animais em recria mantidos em pastagem de Bracharia decumbens na estação seca do ano. Foram utilizados 25 novilhos não-castrados, com peso inicial médio de 191 kg, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições por tratamento, em arranjo fatorial 2 × 2 + 1, ou seja, dois níveis de suplementação energético-proteica (0,3 e 0,6% em relação ao peso vivo (PV) do animal), duas frequências de fornecimento - diariamente ou em dias alternados (dia sim, dia não) - mais um tratamento adicional (apenas suplementação mineral). O consumo de matéria seca da forragem (CMSF) foi estimado utilizando-se os indicadores óxido crômico e matéria seca indigestível (MSi). O consumo de matéria seca do suplemento foi medido diariamente, uma vez que o suplemento foi fornecido individualmente. A suplementação aumentou o consumo de matéria seca total e o ganho médio diário (1,66% do PV e 290 g/dia) em comparação ao suplemento adicional (1,49% do PV e 107 g/dia de perda média diária de PV). Os consumos de matéria seca da forragem e de fibra em detergente neutro foram maiores nos animais que receberam apenas mistura mineral (1,48 e 1,1% do PV, respectivamente) e menores naqueles sob suplementação (1,27 e 0,95% do PV, respectivamente). A redução da ingestão de forragem não diferiu entre os níveis de suplementação (média 299 g/dia). No nível de 0,6% do PV, a suplementação promoveu o maior ganho médio diário, em comparação ao nível de 0,3% do PV (343 vs 238 g/dia), porém foi 39% menos eficiente para conversão de suplemento em ganho de peso. Nenhuma variável estudada foi alterada pelas frequências de suplementação. Em comparação à suplementação diária, a suplementação em dias alternados é viável nos níveis estudados.
Parâmetros fermentativos, produção de proteína microbiana, concentrações de ureia no leite e no plasma e balanço de nitrogênio de vacas alimentadas com silagem de milho ou cana-de-açúcar com caroço de algodão
Authors: Sousa Daniel de Paula , Campos José Maurício de Souza , Valadares Filho Sebastião de Campos , Valadares Rilene Ferreira Diniz , Sediyama Camilla Atsumi Zanuncio , Cruz Júlio César Cardoso
Published: December 2009

Doze vacas da raça Holandesa foram distribuídas em três quadrados latinos 4 × 4 com o objetivo de avaliar o pH, o N-amoniacal, a produção de proteína microbiana, o número de protozoários no rúmen, a concentração de N-ureia no plasma e no leite e balanço de nitrogênio. Os tratamentos consistiram de silagem de milho ou cana-de-açúcar contendo 0, 7 ou 14% de caroço de algodão. Não houve diferença no pH quando fornecida cana-de-açúcar, apesar da diminuição dos valores após o início da alimentação. Os valores de N-amoniacal mantiveram-se acima de 15 mg/dL, após 6 horas de alimentação, apenas quando fornecida silagem de milho e cana-de-açúcar com 7% de caroço de algodão. O maior consumo de MS e nutrientes obtido com a silagem de milho implicou em menor eficiência de uso do nitrogênio e maiores excreções de N-ureia na urina em relação às demais dietas (150,6 vs 96,0 mg/kg PV). O fornecimento de cana-de-açúcar com 7% de caroço de algodão promoveu maiores quantidades de purinas totais (PT), purinas absorvidas (PA), nitrogênio microbiano (207, 6 vs 185,2 g/dia) e melhor balanço de compostos nitrogenados (31,5 vs 15,5) em relação às demais dietas com cana-de-açúcar. O menor consumo de MS e extrato etéreo quando fornecida cana-de-açúcar sem caroço de algodão resultou em maior número de protozoários (129,4 vs 34,0 × 10³/mL), maior excreção urinária de nitrogênio e menor síntese de proteína microbiana em relação às demais dietas, o que indica falta de sincronização na degradação da energia e proteína na relação volumoso:concentrado proposta neste experimento.
Análise financeira e de sensibilidade de sistemas de produção de leite em pastagem
Authors: Peres Afonso Aurélio de Carvalho , Vásquez Hernán Maldonado , Souza Paulo Marcelo de , Silva José Fernando Coelho da , Villela Omar Vieira , Santos Fernando Cesar dos
Published: December 2009

Realizou-se neste estudo uma análise econômica de sistemas de produção para vacas em lactação manejadas em pastagem de capim-mombaça recebendo diferentes fontes de suplementação volumosa durante a época seca do ano. As suplementações fornecidas foram: pastagem de aveia-preta, cana-forrageira com ureia e silagem de sorgo. Utilizaram-se como indicadores econômicos o valor presente líquido (VPL) e a taxa interna de retorno (TIR). Para cada sistema de produção estudado, foi construído um fluxo de caixa, com sua particularidade e índices de desempenhos produtivo e reprodutivo, obtidos experimentalmente. Os fluxos de caixa foram construídos mensalmente para um período de 12 anos e os VPL dos sistemas foram calculados aplicando-se taxas de desconto de 6, 8, 10 e 12% ao ano. Com uma taxa anual de desconto de 8%, todos os sistemas de produção foram viáveis financeiramente. O capital investido apresentou TIR anuais de 11,91% para pastagem de aveia-preta, 9,43% para cana-forrageira e ureia e 8,46% para silagem de sorgo. O item de maior impacto nos resultados econômicos dos sistemas, de acordo com a análise de sensibilidade, foi o preço de venda do leite produzido.
Maus-tratos na infância e psicopatologia no adulto: caminhos para a disfunção do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal
Authors: Mello Marcelo F. , Faria Alvaro A. , Mello Andrea F. , Carpenter Linda L. , Tyrka Audrey R. , Price Lawrence H.
Published: December 2009

OBJETIVO: A meta deste artigo foi a de estudar as relações ente maus-tratos na infância e psicopatologia no adulto, como reflexo de uma disfunção do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal. MÉTODO: Uma revisão seletiva da literatura relevante foi feita para identificar achados-chave e ilustrativos. RESULTADOS: Existe atualmente um volume significativo de achados científicos pré-clínicos e clínicos derivados de paradigmas experimentais, que demonstram que o estresse precoce está relacionado à função do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal e a estados psicológicos no indivíduo adulto, e como esta relação pode ser modulada por outros fatores. DISCUSSÃO: O risco para o desenvolvimento de psicopatologia no adulto e disfunções do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal está relacionado à complexa interação de múltiplos fatores vivenciais, assim como a genes que levam a uma susceptibilidade, que interagem com estes fatores. Embora as respostas agudas do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal sejam geralmente adaptativas, as respostas excessivas podem levar a efeitos deletérios. O estresse precoce pode alterar a função do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal assim como o comportamento, porém, o padrão da disfunção do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal e a evolução psicológica na vida adulta refletem ambas as características do estressor e outros fatores modificadores. CONCLUSÃO: A pesquisa atual identificou múltiplos determinantes da disfunção do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal encontrados em adultos com história de maus-tratos na infância ou outros estressores precoces. Trabalhos futuros são necessários para estabelecer se as anormalidades do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal neste contexto podem ser usadas para o desenvolvimento de endofenótipos de risco para doenças físicas ou psiquiátricas.
Transtornos de humor e de ansiedade comórbidos em vítimas de violência com transtorno do estresse pós-traumático
Authors: Quarantini Lucas C. , Netto Liana R. , Andrade-Nascimento Monica , Almeida Amanda Galvão-de , Sampaio Aline S. , Miranda-Scippa Angela , Bressan Rodrigo A. , Koenen Karestan C.
Published: December 2009

OBJETIVO: Buscar estudos que avaliem a comorbidade entre transtorno de estresse pós-traumático e transtornos do humor, bem como entre transtorno de estresse pós-traumático e outros transtornos de ansiedade. MÉTODO: Revisamos a base de dados do Medline em busca de estudos publicados em inglês até abril de 2009, com as seguintes palavras-chave: "transtorno de estresse pós-traumático", "TEPT", "transtorno de humor", "transtorno depressivo maior", "depressão maior", "transtorno bipolar", "distimia", "transtorno de ansiedade", "transtorno de ansiedade generalizada", agorafobia", "transtorno obsessivo-compulsivo", "transtorno de pânico", "fobia social" e "comorbidade". RESULTADOS: Depressão maior é uma das condições comórbidas mais frequentes em indivíduos com transtorno de estresse pós-traumático, mas eles também apresentam transtorno bipolar e outros transtornos ansiosos. Essas comorbidades impõem um prejuízo clínico adicional e comprometem a qualidade de vida desses indivíduos. Comportamento suicida em pacientes com transtorno de estresse pós-traumático, com ou sem depressão maior comórbida, é também uma questão relevante, e sintomas depressivos mediam a gravidade da dor em sujeitos com transtorno de estresse pós-traumático e dor crônica. CONCLUSÃO: Os estudos disponíveis sugerem que pacientes com transtorno de estresse pós-traumático têm um risco maior de desenvolver transtornos afetivos e, por outro lado, transtornos afetivos pré-existentes aumentam a propensão ao transtorno de estresse pós-traumático após eventos traumáticos. Além disso, vulnerabilidades genéticas em comum podem ajudar a explicar esse padrão de comorbidades. No entanto, diante dos poucos estudos encontrados, mais trabalhos são necessários para avaliar adequadamente essas comorbidades e suas implicações clínicas e terapêuticas.
Effects of human trampling on a rocky shore fauna on the Sao Paulo coast, southeastern Brazil
Authors: Ferreira MN. , Rosso S.
Published: December 2009

Increased tourist activity in coastal regions demands management strategies to reduce impacts on rocky shores. The highly populated coastal areas in southeastern Brazil are an example of degradation caused by development of industry and tourism. Among different shore impacts, trampling has been intensively studied, and may represent a significant source of stress for intertidal fauna. A randomised blocks design was applied to experimentally study the effects of two different trampling intensities on richness, diversity, density and biomass of the rocky shore fauna of Obuseiro beach, Guarujá, southeastern Brazil. Blocks were distributed in two portions of the intertidal zone, dominated respectively by Chthamalus bisinuatus (Cirripedia) and Isognomon bicolor (Bivalvia). Blocks were trampled over three months, simulating the vacation period in Brazil and were monitored for the following nine months. Results indicate that Chthamalus bisinuatus is vulnerable to trampling impacts. Richness, diversity and turn-over index tended to be higher in trampled plots four months after trampling ceased. In general, results agree with previous trampling studies, suggesting that even low intensities of trampling may cause some impact on intertidal communities. Management strategies should include isolation of sensitive areas, construction of boardwalks, visitor education and monitoring programmes. In Brazil, additional data obtained from experimental studies are necessary in order to achieve a better understanding of trampling impacts on rocky shore communities.
Population dynamics: seasonal variation of phytoplankton functional groups in brazilian reservoirs (Billings and Guarapiranga, São Paulo)
Authors: Gemelgo MCP. , Mucci JLN. , Navas-Pereira D.
Published: December 2009

Phytoplankton may function as a "sensor" of changes in aquatic environment and responds rapidly to such changes. In freshwaters, coexistence of species that have similar ecological requirements and show the same environmental requirements frequently occurs; such species groups are named functional groups. The use of phytoplankton functional groups to evaluate these changes has proven to be very useful and effective. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of functional groups of phytoplankton in two reservoirs (Billings and Guarapiranga) that supply water to millions of people in São Paulo city Metropolitan Area, southeastern Brazil. Surface water samples were collected monthly and physical, chemical and biological (quantitative and qualitative analyses of the phytoplankton) were performed. The highest biovolume (mm³.L-1) of the descriptor species and functional groups were represented respectively by Anabaena circinalis Rabenh. (H1), Microcystis aeruginosa (Kützing) Kützing (L M/M) and Mougeotia sp. (T) in the Guarapiranga reservoir and Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Wolosz.) Seen. and Subba Raju (S N), Microcystis aeruginosa and M. panniformis Komárek et al. (L M/M), Planktothrix agardhii (Gom.) Anagn. and Komárek and P. cf. clathrata (Skuja) Anagn. and Komárek (S1) in the Billings reservoir. The environmental factors that most influenced the phytoplankton dynamics were water temperature, euphotic zone, turbidity, conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrate and total phosphorous.
The fish community of the Sorocaba River Basin in different habitats (State of São Paulo, Brazil)
Authors: Smith WS. , Petrere Jr. M. , Barrella W.
Published: December 2009

A fish assemblage study was accomplished in different habitats of the Sorocaba River Basin. Fish were caught with gillnets, were weighed (weight total - g) and measured (standard length - mm). Several abiotic variables of selected sampling sites were measured in order to characterise their habitats in order to attempt establishing correlations with fish community traits. Fish numbers per species were adjusted to the lognormal and logseries species/abundance models The fish community totaled 38 species, distributed in 28 genera, 14 families and 4 orders. Diversity was calculated both in number and in weight and both presented higher values in better preserved sites. We did not detect any statistical differences between dry and rainy seasons. We also concluded that the abundance distribution was not influenced by abiotic variables.
The interplay among prey preference, nutrient enrichment and stability in an omnivory system
Authors: Faria LDB. , Costa MIS.
Published: December 2009

Food webs usually display an intricate mix of trophic interactions where multiple prey are common. In this context omnivory has been the subject of intensive analysis regarding food web stability and structure. In a three species omnivory setting it is shown that the modeling of prey preference by the top predator may exert a strong influence on the short as well as on the long term dynamics of the respective food web. Clearly, this has implications concerning the stability and the structure of omnivory systems under disturbances such as nutrient enrichment.
Socio-economic characteristics of the Cachoeira de Emas small-scale fishery in Mogi-Guaçu River, State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Peixer J. , Petrere Júnior M.
Published: December 2009

Fishing in the area of Cachoeira de Emas dates from the aboriginal Painguás who inhabited its margins. The socioeconomic conditions of the fishers and fishing are described, derived from personal interviews with 33 fishers. Their mean age is 48.6 years and they have been fishing on average for 24.2 years. The monthly total raw income is US$ 575.52 and the raw income just from fishing is of US$ 239.64 per fisher. Most of them (66.6%) have only incomplete primary and junior education. The main capture species are curimba Prochilodus lineatus, piapara Leporinus obtusidens, dourado Salminus brasiliensis, mandi Pimelodus maculatus, Pimelodus heraldoi and lambari (genus Astyanax and Roeboides). Fishers capture an average of 19.9 kg of fish per day. The total average raw income just calculated from the interviews is very high when compared with other places in Brazil and in the world, and above the poverty line as defined by the Getúlio Vargas Foundation. So we may conclude there these fishers are not the poorest in society.
Distribution of Deroceras reticulatum (Müller, 1774) (Pulmonata Stylommatophora) in Argentina with first record of the Reserva de Usos Múltiples Isla Martin Garcia, Río de la Plata superior
Authors: Martín SM. , César II. , Liberto R.
Published: December 2009

Deroceras reticulatum is a misanthropic European species spread widely throughout South America. At the moment this species is considered a 'pest' in direct sowing such as maize, soybean, sunflower, wheat, alfalfa and clovers, among others. The aim of this paper is to report the first record of D. reticulatum in the Reserva de Usos Multiples Isla Martín García, Buenos Aires province and to provide information about this species distribution in five Argentina provinces.
Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) on Gerbera jamesonii Bolus and Hook (Asteraceae)
Authors: Silva EA. , Reis PR. , Carvalho TMB. , Altoé BF.
Published: December 2009

Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus and Hook,) is an ornamental Asteraceae of great commercial value, and pests can affect adversely its cultivation. More than 20 species of arthropods cause economic damage on gerbera, among them the two spotted mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, 1836 (Acari: Tetranychidae), considered a key pest for this and other ornamental plants. In this work, some life-cycle aspects of T. urticae on gerbera, considered important for the knowledge of its population dynamics and for pest management programs, were studied. Mites were reared on 3-cm diameter arenas of gerbera leaf discs maintained on distilled water in Petri dishes, under laboratory conditions of 25 ºC, 70 ± 10% RU and 14-hour photophase, with only one egg left per arena, in a total of 262 arenas. Egg viability was 96.5% and 97.1% for unmated and mated females, respectively. Unmated females originated larvae which lived for 3.2 days and the stages of protonymph and deutonymph, 1.9 and 1.6 days, respectively; those from mated females lived 3.5 days and for protonymphs and deutonymphs, 2.0 and 1.6 days, respectively. Except for the duration of one generation (T), with similar values, 18.6 and 19.7 days, respectively for unmated and mated females, the net reproductive rate of increase (Rº), the innate capacity to increase in number (r m) and the finite rate of growth (λ) were different for mated and unmated females, respectively 11.5 and 24.6 for R0; 0.12 and 0.17 for r m and 1.13 and 1.19 for λ.
Evaluation of the genotoxic potential of Austroplenckia populnea (Reiss) Lundell chloroform fraction from barkwood extract in rodent cells in vivo
Authors: Ribeiro JC. , Andrade SF. , Bastos JK. , Maistro EL.
Published: December 2009

The genotoxic effect of the Austroplenckia populnea chloroform fraction from barkwood extract was tested in vivo on peripheral blood cells of Swiss mice with the comet assay (SCGE), and the clastogenic effect was investigated on peripheral blood cells of Swiss mice and bone marrow cells of Wistar rats, with the micronucleus and chromosome aberrations tests. The animals were treated by gavage with 3 concentrations of the extract: 300, 600 and 900 mg.kg-1. Peripheral blood cells of Swiss mice were collected 4 and 24 hours after the treatment to the SCGE assay and 48 and 72 hours to the micronucleus test. Bone marrow cells of Wistar rats were collected 24 hours after the treatment to the micronucleus and chromosome aberration tests. The results showed that the A. populnea chloroform fraction induced an increase in the average number of DNA damage in peripheral blood cells at the three concentrations tested, but this increase was not statistically significant. In the micronucleus and chromosome aberrations test, no significant increase was observed in the mean number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE) of Swiss mice or MNPCE or chromosome aberrations for the rat bone marrow cells, for any of the tested doses. Our findings enable us to conclude that by the comet assay, A. populnea chloroform fraction from barkwood extract showed no genotoxic effects, and by the micronucleus and chromosome aberration tests, the extract fraction showed no clastogenic/aneugenic effects on the rodent cells tested.
Biological aspects of sharks caught off the Coast of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil
Authors: Fischer AF. , Hazin FHV. , Carvalho F. , Viana DL. , Rêgo MG. , Wor C.
Published: December 2009

One hundred seventeen specimens of sharks were caught along the coast of Pernambuco State, Northern Brazil, between May 2004 and May 2007, among which 86 were blacknose sharks, Carcharhinus acronotus, enabling a more detailed study of the species. Blacknose sharks were caught in the 2 study areas along the Boa Viagem/Piedade and Paiva beaches, accounting for the highest relative abundance among the species caught (73.5% of total). Potentially dangerous sharks, tiger and bull sharks, were also caught in the same areas, whereas hammerhead and blacktip sharks were only captured off Boa Viagem/Piedade. Concerning the blacknose shark, the total length (TL) ranged from 39.0 to 180.0 cm. Among the 38 females analysed, 32 were juveniles, 11 were maturing, 2 were pre-ovulatory and 21 were pregnant. Sexing was possible for 75 of the 83 embryos, 38 of which were males and 37 were females, with a sex proportion of 1:0.9 and total length ranging between 6.4 and 63.5 cm. Ovarian fecundity ranged from 5 to 10 and uterine fecundity from 1 to 3, with an estimated gestational period of 9 months. Among the 48 males, 6 were juveniles and 42 were adults. Both males and females seem to reach sexual maturity at about 105.0 cm TL. Among the 86 stomachs analysed, only 22.1% had contents, with teleosts as the most frequent item.
Misoprostol and teratogenesis in neonates
Authors: Silva Mariana Beatriz Scabora da , Ferreira Aline de Assis , Habr Soraya Ferreira , Bernardi Maria Martha
Published: December 2009

This paper is focused in some aspects of maternal exposure to misoprostol during perinatal period, and the abortive and teratogenesis effects on the fetus. The causes of malformations were revised, taking into account chemical, physical and environmental factors as well as the interaction between them. There are evidences that the practice of abortion tripled in Southern and Northeastern Brazil in 15 years, and one of the most frequent forms of abortion is through the use of misoprostol. In Brazil, 1991, 288,700 women were hospitalized as a consequence of complications induced by abortion attempt with this medicine. This fact resulted in the ban of misoprostol across our country, by Decree 344/98 determined by the Health Ministry. The use of misoprostol requires special control and it is allowed only in hospitals, with supervision of the municipal health surveillance. Among the more severe problems affecting the non-aborted child is the injury on the central nervous system, which frequently results in the Moebius syndrome. This is a congenital and non-progressive paralysis of the VI and VII cranial nerves, frequently bilateral, which produces a unexpressive facial appearance and convergent Strabismus. Even banned in our country, abortion is illegally practiced, being deprived of proper knowledge about misoprostol teratogenic effects on the fetus as well as the risks involving mothers.
Evaluation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the acetone extract from Anacardium occidentale L
Authors: Vanderlinde Frederico Argollo , Landim Higor Frutuoso , Costa Elson Alves , Galdino Pablinny Moreira , Maciel Maria Aparecida Medeiros , Anjos Gineide Conceição dos , Malvar David do Carmo , Côrtes Wellington da Silva , Rocha Fábio Fagundes da
Published: December 2009

The stem bark of Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae), commonly called cashew, is used in Brazilian traditional medicine for the treatment of gastric and inflammatory disorders. The present study was carried out to investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of the acetone extract (AE) of the stem bark of A. occidentale. We evaluated the pharmacological activities of this plant material through the analgesic, antiedematogenic and chemotaxic inhibitory effects produced by the AE. The oral administration (p.o.) of mice with the AE (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 g/kg) or positive control indomethacin (10 mg/kg) inhibited acetic acid-induced writhing by 18.9, 35.9, 62.9 and 68.9%, respectively (ID50% = 530 mg/kg). The highest dose of the AE was able to inhibit croton oil-induced ear edema formation by 56.8% (indomethacin at 10 mg/kg, p.o. - 57.6% inhibition). When submitted to the carrageenan-induced peritonitis test, the AE (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 g/kg, p.o.) impaired leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity by 24.8, 40.5 and 49.6%, respectively. The positive control, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg, s.c.), inhibited leukocyte migration by 66.9%. These results indicate the presence of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive principles in the acetone extract of Anacardium occidentale, and reinforce the plant's potential therapeutic use against pain and inflammatory diseases.
Antioxidant capacity of extracts and isolated compounds from Stryphnodendron obovatum Benth
Authors: Zocoler Analice Martins Daleffi , Sanches Andréia Cristina Conegero , Albrecht Ingrid , Mello João Carlos Palazzo de
Published: December 2009

The extract from stem bark of Stryphnodendron obovatum Benth. was chromatographed on a Sephadex® LH-20 column, and yielded nine compounds: gallic acid (GA), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHB), gallocatechin (GC), epigallocatechin (EPG), 4'-O-methylgallocatechin (MGC), epigallocatechin-(4β→8)-epigallocatechin (EPEP), epigallocatechin-(4β→8)-gallocatechin (EPGC), robinetinidol-(4α→8)-gallocatechin (ROGC) and robinetinidol-(4β→8)-epigallocatechin (ROEP). Evaluation of the antioxidant capacity in vitro by the methods of DPPH free radical (IC50; μg/mL) and reduction of the phosphomolybdenum complex (RAC) gave the following results, respectively: crude extract 4.52 and 0.8242; ethyl-acetate fraction 4.04 and 0.9537; aqueous fraction 5.58 and 0.9275. The crude extract and ethyl-acetate fraction were shown to possess an antioxidant capacity comparable to that of vitamin C (4.93 and 1.0). The values obtained by the DPPH free-radical method for the isolated compounds were IC50 (μM): GA=8.89; PHB=10.12; GC=16.46; EPG=13.20; MGC=21.00; EPEP=6.89; EPGC=4.91; ROGC=7.78 and ROEP=6.20. Vitamin C and trolox showed 30.11 and 30.10, respectively. Dimers showed greater activity in scavenging free radicals, possibly related to the number of hydroxyls. However, compounds without a hydroxyl at position 5 of the A-ring (5-deoxy-proanthocyanidins) did not change the antioxidant activity of the DPPH free radical, as evaluated here for the first time. Among the monomers, there appeared to be a direct relationship in scavenging of free radicals because of the stereochemistry of the compounds. The presence of a methyl radical on the B-ring significantly reduced the scavenging of free radicals of gallocatechin. All compounds showed greater scavenging of radicals than vitamin C and trolox, and these two compounds showed no significant difference from each other.
Relation between CYP2C19 phenotype and genotype in a group of Brazilian volunteers
Authors: Linden Rafael , Ziulkoski Ana Luiza , Tonello Paula , Wingert Maína , Souto André Arigony
Published: December 2009

The CYP2C19 gene presents polymorphism affecting the pharmacokinetics of several drugs of clinical importance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between CYP2C19 genotype and metabolic phenotype in a group of 38 Brazilian volunteers, evaluating the phenotype prediction capacity of the genotyping procedure. For CYP2C19 phenotyping, omeprazole was used as the probe drug, using the hydroxylation metabolic ratio as the phenotypic indicator. Venous blood samples were drawn before and three hours after an oral administration of 20 mg omeprazole. The plasma concentrations of omeprazole and hydroxy-omeprazole were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The genotyping assay was carried out using a Real-Time-PCR-based assay, identifying the alleles *1 (completely functional), *2, *3 and *4 (null). The phenotyping procedure estimated the presence of 4 poor, 34 extensive and 1 ultra-extensive metabolizer. The genotyping identified 4 poor, 23 extensive and 11 intensive metabolizers. The groups of volunteers classified according to the number of active alleles of CYP2C19 had significant differences in the metabolic ratios of omeprazole hydroxylation. However, volunteers exhibiting the same number of active alleles presented different phenotypes. Therefore, the phenotyping of CYP2C19 is a more promising alternative to dose individualization of CYP2C19 substrate drugs.
Official monitoring of the Brazilian Norm for Commercialization of Food for Nursling and Children of First Infancy, Rubber Nipples, Pacifiers, and Nursing Bottles - NBCAL
Authors: Bartolini Fabrício Luiz Silva , Amaral Maria da Penha Henriques do , Vilela Miriam Aparecida Pinto , Mendonça Alessandra Ésther de , Vilela Fernanda Maria Pinto , Amaral Lílian Henriques do , Gomes Felipe Villela
Published: December 2009

This work aimed to evaluate advertisement of baby food, rubber nipples, pacifiers and nursing bottles through newspapers as well as on TV, radio, and the internet, in order to check whether the 'Brazilian Norm for Commercialization of Food for Nursling and Children of First Infancy, Rubber Nipples, Pacifiers and Nursing Bottles' (Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras - NBCAL) has been complied. Samples of all the items above were acquired at discount and department stores to check whether labeling was in compliance with the NBCAL. The development of this research as well as the analyses of commercial promotion were carried out in Juiz de Fora - state of Minas Gerais, from May to July 2006, using convenient, non-representative sampling composed of 680 pieces of advertisement. The results obtained through descriptive statistics showed that 564 of the 680 samples analyzed, or 83.0%, did not meet the NBCAL. Irregularities were detected in 100% of the samples advertised on the media and found in hospitals and drugstores; in 70.1% of the samples purchased at supermarkets, in 37% of those from medical clinics and in 86.6% of those found on the internet. The evidences showed that monitoring must be carried out continuously and educational campaigns on the importance of breast-feeding for the full development of children must be addressed to mothers, the food industry and commercial establishments.
Effect of stearic acid on the properties of metronidazole/methocel K4M floating matrices
Authors: Lara-Hernández Belem , Hernández-León Alejandra , Villafuerte-Robles Leopoldo
Published: December 2009

The properties of metronidazole/Methocel K4M sustained release floating tablets have been studied varying the proportion of the lubricant, stearic acid, on formulations with and without sodium bicarbonate. The variables studied include technological properties of the tablets such as tablet hardness and ejection pressure, the drug release profile, the hydration kinetics and the floating behaviour. The presence of stearic acid and sodium bicarbonate improves the floating behaviour for more than 8 hours. The hydration volume, the tablet hardness and the ejection pressure decrease as the stearic acid content increases and the polymer content decreases. Drug dissolution increases with increasing proportions of stearic acid and decreasing proportions of the polymer in the tablets. The presence of sodium bicarbonate extends the differences in dissolution produced by stearic acid. These results are attributed to decreasing matrices coherence with an increasing quantity of stearic acid and a reducing polymer proportion. The carbon dioxide bubbles produced by sodium bicarbonate expand the matrices facilitating the dissolution, although their presence obstructs also the diffusion path through the hydrated gel layer.
Comparison of three experimental designs employed in gentamicin microbiological assay through agar diffusion
Authors: Lourenço Felipe Rebello , Pinto Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli
Published: December 2009

Gentamicin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic complex produced by actinomycetes belonging to Micromonospora genus and classified among aminoglycoside antibiotics, used in the treatment of serious infections derived from Gram-negative microorganisms. Alterations of their antimicrobial activity not shown in chemical assays can be evaluated through microbiological assays. The aim of this work was to compare 5 x 1, 2 x 2 and 3 x 1 experimental designs, evaluating validation parameters of specificity, linearity, range, precision, and accuracy for each experimental design in different levels of concentration, presentation, and lots. It consisted of 81 assays (in 3 replicas) of gentamicin microbiological dosage. The concentrations of the solutions used were employed in a range from 1.0 μg/mL to 5.0 μg/mL, diluted in phosphate buffer 0.1 M pH 8.0. Antibiotic medium number 11 was used, with Staphyloccocus epidermis (ATCC 12228). 21ml of medium were used as base layer and 4 ml of medium inoculated at 1% were used as surface layer. The dishes were incubated for 18 hours at 37 ± 1 ºC. The three designs employed showed adequate specificity for analysis of dermatological cream and injectable solution containing gentamicin sulphate. They also showed accuracy and linearity in the range evaluated, but not a significant difference concerning precision. The results were compared by means of the determination of the rates of measurement system capacity. The statistical analysis demonstrated that there is no significant difference among the results obtained through 5 x 1, 2 x 2, and 3 x 1, being these equivalent and interchangeable.
Development of enteric coated tablets from spray dried extract of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L: )
Authors: Chaves Juliana Siqueira , Da Costa Fernando Batista , Freitas Luís Alexandre Pedro de
Published: December 2009

Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) is an herb that is commercialized worldwide as a therapeutic treatment for migraine. Its pharmacological effect is mainly due to the presence of the sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide as well as of flavonoids. So far, there are no studies on standardization of pre-formulations or phytomedicines containing this herb. The present study aimed at developing a pre-formulation using a standardized spray-dried extract of feverfew and further designing and standardizing enteric coated tablets. In this work, the spray-dried extract of feverfew was evaluated for its parthenolide, santin and total flavonoid content, parthenolide solubility, particle size, tapped density, hygroscopicity, angle of repose and moisture content. Tablets containing the spray-dried extract were tested for their average weight, friability, hardness, and disintegration time. The total flavonoid and parthenolide contents in the spray-dried extract were 1.31 % and 0.76% w/w, respectively. The spray-dried extract presented consistent pharmacotechnical properties and allowed its tableting by direct compression. Tablet properties were in accordance with the proposed specifications. The procedures described herein can be used to prepare and evaluate pre-formulations of feverfew with adequate properties for the development of a high-quality phytomedicine.
Pharmaceutical care to pregnant women carrying human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Romeu Geysa Aguiar , Paiva Larissa Varela de , Fé Mariana Mota Moura
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this present study was to know the pharmacoepidemiological profile of pregnant women carrying HIV, the prevention actions against vertical transmission, and evaluate the service respecting the patients' level of satisfaction. It was developed a quali-quantitative longitudinal study, with the sample being composed by pregnant women carrying HIV attended at the Pharmaceutical Care Service of a public hospital of Fortaleza - state of Ceará, during the period between January and September, 2007. The data were collected by means of follow-up cards, patients' medical history and, finally, interviews to verify the users' level of satisfaction related to the service. Twenty seven pregnant and parturient women have participated in the study. The mean profile found was of a single woman, aged in the range between 18 and 28 years, of Caucasian race or dark colored, with familial revenue below the minimum wage, having elementary or high school, and being unemployed. It was observed that 77.8% (n=21) of patients followed all prevention strategies against maternal-infant transmission. Twenty nine drug related problems have been detected, out of which 51.7% (n=15) were resolved. The general level of satisfaction respecting the Pharmaceutical Care Service was quite satisfactory. By means of the Pharmaceutical Care Service, the pharmacist professional effectively collaborates for the correct utilization of medications, and this action results directly in a decrease of HIV vertical transmission.
Development of Multiple Myeloma in a Patient with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia While on Treatment with Imatinib Mesylate for 65 Months
Authors: Michael Michalis , Antoniades Marios , Lemesiou Elena , Papaminas Nicandros , Melanthiou Freiderikh
Published: December 2009

The simultaneous occurrence of multiple myeloma (MM) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is an extremely rare event that has been reported in only eight cases in the literature. We report here on only the third case of the development of MM in a patient with CML on treatment with imatinib mesylate, and to our knowledge, this is the first case in a patient who received imatinib as first-line treatment.
Diabetes and obesity during pregnancy alter insulin signalling and glucose transporter expression in maternal skeletal muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue
Authors: Colomiere Michelle , Permezel Michael , Lappas Martha
Published: December 2009

Severe insulin resistance is a defining attribute of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It is postulated that alterations in the insulin-signalling pathway and subsequent glucose disposal are the underlying cause of insulin resistance in patients with GDM. The purpose of this study was to profile the insulin-signalling pathway and intermediates in insulin-sensitive tissues. Subcutaneous adipose tissue and skeletal muscle were collected from normal glucose-tolerant (NGT) and insulin-controlled GDM in both non-obese and obese cohorts (n=6–8 per subgroup). Expression studies of the insulin-signalling pathway were performed using western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. This study demonstrated altered mRNA expression of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1, IRS-2, glucose transporter (GLUT)-1, GLUT-4 and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3 isoforms genes in adipose tissue in GDM women in comparison to NGT pregnant controls. In skeletal muscle, insulin-controlled GDM was associated with decreased IRS-1, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-K) p85α, GLUT-1 and -4, GSK-3 isoforms and phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1. Both adipose tissue and skeletal muscle from women with GDM displayed decreased IRS-1 and GLUT-4 and increased PI3-K p85α protein expression. Both skeletal muscle and adipose tissue from obese women demonstrated lower GLUT-1 and -4 mRNA expression and diminished GLUT-4 protein expression in skeletal muscle only. Collectively, our results suggest that diabetes and obesity during pregnancy cause defects in insulin-signalling transduction in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle and may be the underlying cause of GDM.
Combined environmental risk assessment for 5-fluorouracil and capecitabine in Europe
Authors: Straub Jürg Oliver
Published: December 2009

An environmental risk assessment (ERA) was made for the old cytostatic active pharmaceutical ingredient 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and for capecitabine (CAP), which is a prodrug of 5-FU. This ERA is based on published and company internal data as well as new test results for physicochemical, human metabolism, biodegradability, environmental partitioning and fate, and acute and chronic ecotoxicity properties of the active substance 5-FU as well as on use sales data for 5-FU and CAP in Europe. Predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) were extrapolated following the EMEA 2006 Guideline on ERA for human pharmaceuticals and the European Union 2003 Technical Guidance Document (TGD) for risk assessment as well as the TGD-based application EUSES v2.0. Actual amounts sold were taken from IMS Health Databases, in order to refine the default use and EMEA penetration factor as well as the PECs. Moreover, available measured environmental concentrations (MECs) were used to supplement PECs. A predicted no-effect concentration (PNEC) for 5-FU was derived from chronic ecotoxicity data. Except for the simplistic EMEA Phase I default PEC, the risk characterization by PEC:PNEC and MEC:PNEC ratios for various environmental compartments resulted in no significant risk. As the EMEA Phase I PEC does not integrate documented human metabolism and environmental degradation, in contrast to refined PEC derivations, it is inferred that the current use of CAP and 5-FU does not present any evident risk to the environment. An additional evaluation of persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity (PBT) properties supports the conclusion of no significant environmental risk for 5-FU and CAP. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2010;6:540–566. © 2009 SETAC
A new process for organizing assessments of social, economic, and environmental outcomes: Case study of wildland fire management in the USA
Authors: Bruins Randall JF , Munns Wayne R , Botti Stephen J , Brink Steve , Cleland David , Kapustka Larry , Lee Danny , Luzadis Valerie , Falk McCarthy Laura , Rana Naureen , Rideout Douglas B , Rollins Matt , Woodbury Peter , Zupko Mike
Published: December 2009

Ecological risk assessments typically are organized using the processes of planning (a discussion among managers, stakeholders, and analysts to clarify ecosystem management goals and assessment scope) and problem formulation (evaluation of existing information to generate hypotheses about adverse ecological effects, select assessment endpoints, and develop an analysis plan). These processes require modification to be applicable for integrated assessments that evaluate ecosystem management alternatives in terms of their ecological, economic, and social consequences. We present 8 questions that define the steps of a new process we term integrated problem formulation (IPF), and we illustrate the use of IPF through a retrospective case study comparing 2 recent phases of development of the Fire Program Analysis (FPA) system, a planning and budgeting system for the management of wildland fire throughout publicly managed lands in the United States. IPF extends traditional planning and problem formulation by including the explicit comparison of management alternatives, the valuation of ecological, economic and social endpoints, and the combination or integration of those endpoints. The phase 1, limited-prototype FPA system used a set of assessment endpoints of common form (i.e., probabilities of given flame heights over acres of selected land-resource types), which were specified and assigned relative weights at the local level in relation to a uniform national standard. This approach was chosen to permit system-wide optimization of fire management budget allocations according to a cost-effectiveness criterion. Before full development, however, the agencies abandoned this approach in favor of a phase 2 system that examined locally specified (rather than system-optimized) allocation alternatives and was more permissive as to endpoint form. We demonstrate how the IPF process illuminates the nature, rationale, and consequences of these differences, and argue that its early use for the FPA system may have enabled a smoother development path. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2010;6:469–483. © 2009 SETAC