Aquios CL flow cytometer performance in the automated quantification of lymphocyte subpopulations / Desempenho do citômetro de fluxo Aquios CL na quantificação automatizada de subpopulações linfocitárias

ABSTRACT Flow cytometry (FC) is an essential tool for diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic follow-up of several hematologic malignancies. In addition, it performs the quantification of lymphocytes subpopulations for diagnosis and monitoring of primary and acquired immunodeficiencies through the antigenic expressions of CD19 and CD20 for B lymphocytes; CD2, CD3, CD4, CD8 for T lymphocytes; and CD56 and CD16 for the identification of natural killer (NK) cells. The cytometry technique has revolutionized the way that the cells are identified, and over the years this platform has progressed with several advances in hardware and software that aim to improve workflow resulting in higher productivity, quality and cost savings. The Aquios CL - Beckman Coulter (BC) is an example of this advance because it is a complete automation instrument in flow cytometry called "Load & Go flow cytometer" for quantification of lymphocyte subpopulations in the routine diagnosis. In this study, the Aquios CL was validated, and quantification in frequency and absolute numbers of the lymphocyte subpopulations had an excellent correlation with the results obtained by the dual platform quantification performed in the Cytomics FC500 (BC) and automated Sysmex XE-2100 cell analyzer.

RESUMEN La citometría de flujo (CF) es una herramienta importante para diagnóstico, pronóstico y seguimiento terapéutico de diversas neoplasias hematológicas. Además, posibilita la cuantificación de las subpoblaciones linfocitarias (SPL) para asistencia diagnóstica y monitoreo de las inmunodeficiencias primarias y adquiridas a través de las expresiones antigénicas de CD19 y CD20 para linfocitos B; CD2, CD3, CD4 y CD8 para linfocitos T; y CD56 y CD16 para identificación de células natural killer (NK). La CF ha revolucionado la manera como las células son identificadas y, a lo largo de los años, esa plataforma ha progresado con diversos avances en hardware y software que aspiran a mejorar el flujo de trabajo resultando en mayor productividad, calidad y reducción de costos. El Aquios CL Beckman Coulter (BC) es un ejemplo de ese avance, pues es un instrumento de automación completa en CF (llamado Load & Go flow cytometer) para cuantificación de SPL en la rutina diagnóstica. En este estudio el Aquios CL fue validado, y la cuantificación en números relativos y absolutos de las subpoblaciones linfocitarias tuvo una excelente correlación con los resultados obtenidos por la cuantificación en plataforma dupla realizada en el Cytomics FC500 (BC) y en el analizador automatizado de células Sysmex XE-2100.

RESUMO A citometria de fluxo (CF) é uma ferramenta importante para diagnóstico, prognóstico e acompanhamento terapêutico de diversas neoplasias hematológicas. Além disso, possibilita a quantificação das subpopulações linfocitárias (SPL) para assistência diagnóstica e monitoramento das imunodeficiências primárias e adquiridas por meio das expressões antigênicas de CD19 e CD20 para linfócitos B; CD2, CD3, CD4 e CD8 para linfócitos T; e CD56 e CD16 para identificação de células natural killer (NK). A técnica de CF revolucionou a maneira como as células são identificadas e, ao longo dos anos, essa plataforma tem progredido com diversos avanços em hardware e software que visam melhorar o fluxo de trabalho, resultando em maior produtividade, qualidade e redução de custos. O Aquios CL - Beckman Coulter (BC) é um exemplo desse avanço, pois é um equipamento de automação completa em CF (denominado Load & Go flow cytometer) para quantificação de SPL na rotina diagnóstica. Neste estudo, o Aquios CL foi validado, e a quantificação em números relativos e absolutos das subpopulações linfocitárias teve uma excelente correlação com os resultados obtidos pela quantificação em plataforma dupla realizada no Cytomics FC500 (BC) e no analisador automatizado de células Sysmex XE-2100.

An external tag for fish: tagging effects in different fish size classes and its influence on growth performance and hematology of Lophiosilurus alexandri (Siluriformes: Pseudopimelodidae)

This study tested an external tag for juveniles of Lophiosilurus alexandri and measured the effects of tagging in different size classes of fishes. Experiment 1 evaluated the retention rate and influence of the tag on survival and growth of three hundred fishes divided Small, Medium and Large size classes. After 90 days of experiment the fishes had 100% survival and the tag had a higher retention rate for animals of the Large size class. Experiment 2 evaluated the tag's influence on hematology parameters of forty-two fishes at 5, 10 and 30 days post-tagging. In this experiment both tagged and untagged animals experienced 9.4% mortality. The hematocrit was higher on the 30th day for tagged animals than for untagged animals. No difference was observed for leukocytes, plasma protein, erythrocytes and mean corpuscular volume. It was concluded from Experiment 1 that the tag reduced growth performance when applied to small sized juvenile L. alexandri, and that the tag retention rate increased with increasing animal size. Among the hematological parameters studied for juveniles on the Experiment 2 the tag only influenced the hematocrit parameters, which shows that the tag can be used without considerable influence on the hematological parameters of juvenile L. alexandri.(AU)

Esse estudo testou a utilização de marcadores externos em juvenis de Lophiosilurus alexandri, assim como o tamanho mínimo ideal do peixe para marcação. No experimento 1 foi avaliado a taxa de retenção e a influência do marcador sobre a sobrevivência e crescimento dos peixes divididos por tamanho nas classes: Pequeno, Médio e Grande. Após 90 dias, os peixes apresentaram 100% de sobrevivência e uma taxa de retenção mais elevada para os animais classificados como grandes. O segundo experimento avaliou a influência do marcador sobre os parâmetros hematológicos dos animais após 5, 10 e 30 dias da marcação. Neste experimento, foram observados valores mais elevados para o hematócrito no 30º dia para os animais marcados, enquanto nenhuma diferença foi observada para leucócitos, proteína plasmática, eritrócitos e volume corpuscular médio. Concluiu-se o que o marcador reduziu a taxa de crescimento dos animais menores, e que a taxa de retenção aumentou com o aumento do tamanho do animal. Dos parâmetros hematológicos avaliados, o marcador influenciou apenas no valor do hematócrito, o que mostra que o marcador pode ser usado sem considerável influência nos parâmetros hematológicos do L. alexandri.(AU)

Biochemical characterization of a phospholipase A2 homologue from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis

Wasp venoms constitute a molecular reservoir of new pharmacological substances such as peptides and proteins, biological property holders, many of which are yet to be identified. Exploring these sources may lead to the discovery of molecules hitherto unknown. This study describes, for the first time in hymenopteran venoms, the identification of an enzymatically inactive phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis. Methods: P. occidentalis venom was fractioned by molecular exclusion and reverse phase chromatography. For the biochemical characterization of the protein, 1D and 2D SDS-PAGE were performed, along with phospholipase activity assays on synthetic substrates, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and sequencing by Edman degradation. Results: The protein, called PocTX, was isolated using two chromatographic steps. Based on the phospholipase activity assay, electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, the protein presented a high degree of purity, with a mass of 13,896. 47 Da and a basic pI. After sequencing by the Edman degradation method, it was found that the protein showed a high identity with snake venom PLA2 homologues. Conclusion: This is the first report of an enzymatically inactive PLA2 isolated from wasp venom, similar to snake PLA2 homologues.(AU)

Biochemical characterization of a phospholipase A2 homologue from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis

Background: Wasp venoms constitute a molecular reservoir of new pharmacological substances such as peptides and proteins, biological property holders, many of which are yet to be identified. Exploring these sources may lead to the discovery of molecules hitherto unknown. This study describes, for the first time in hymenopteran venoms, the identification of an enzymatically inactive phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis. Methods: P. occidentalis venom was fractioned by molecular exclusion and reverse phase chromatography. For the biochemical characterization of the protein, 1D and 2D SDS-PAGE were performed, along with phospholipase activity assays on synthetic substrates, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and sequencing by Edman degradation. Results: The protein, called PocTX, was isolated using two chromatographic steps. Based on the phospholipase activity assay, electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, the protein presented a high degree of purity, with a mass of 13,896. 47 Da and a basic pI. After sequencing by the Edman degradation method, it was found that the protein showed a high identity with snake venom PLA2 homologues. Conclusion: This is the first report of an enzymatically inactive PLA2 isolated from wasp venom, similar to snake PLA2 homologues.

Intake and digestibility in sheep fed on marandu grass silages added with dehydrated barley / Ingestão e digestibilidade de ovinos alimentados com silagens de capim-marandu aditivadas com resíduo de cervejaria desidratado

The objective was to evaluate the intake and the apparent digestibility in sheep fed on marandu grass silages added with dehydrated barley. Twenty crossbred Santa Inês lambs were used, with a mean initial weight of 30±4.5 kg and mean age of 14±2 months. The experimental sheep were distributed into a completely randomized design and lining, with five treatments and four repetitions, with treatments levels of inclusion of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% natural matter of naturally dehydrated brewery residue for 36 hours to the marandu grass silage to feed the sheep. The evaluation period lasted 21 days, 15 for adaptation to the diets and 7 days for data collection. The data was submitted to analysis of variance, and when significant (P<0.05) the treatment means were analysed by regression. The inclusion of dehydrated barley to silage showed a linear increase in water intake (P<0.05), increased by 0.02% per unit of dehydrated barley. A quadratic effect was observed for the levels of dehydrated barley on the dry matter intake (DM), estimating a maximum consumption of 2.86% DM for silages containing 17.8% dehydrated barley. The crude protein intake (CP) behaved quadratically, with the maximum value estimated of 0.29% CP at a level of 22.5% dehydrated barley. Ether extract (EE) intake also exhibited quadratic behaviour (P<0.05), with the maximum value estimated of 0.2% EE at a level of 28.25% dehydrated barley. The regression study showed quadratic behaviour; with the maximum estimated value of neutral detergent fibre was 2.33% at a level of 34.58% dehydrated barley. No statistical significance was found for the intake of acid detergent fibre or organic matter (P>0.05). It was concluded that the addition of levels of 20 to 30% of dehydrated barley to silage resulted in a positive response for the dry matter intake, crude protein, Ether extract and neutral detergent fibre.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo e a digestibilidade aparente de ovinos alimentados com silagens de capim marandu aditivadas com resíduo de cervejaria desidratado. Foram utilizados 20 ovinos mestiços de Santa Inês machos inteiros, com peso médio inicial de 30±4.5 kg e média de 14±2meses de idade. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e quatro repetições, sendo os tratamentos níveis de inclusão de 0, 10, 20, 30 e 40% da matéria natural de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado naturalmente por 36 horas à silagem de capim-marandu. O período de avaliação teve duração de 21 dias, sendo 15 para adaptação às dietas e seis para as coletas. Os dados foram submetidas à análise de variância, e quando significativo, as médias dos tratamentos à análise de regressão. A inclusão do resíduo de cervejaria desidratado promoveu aumento linear (P<0,05) no consumo de água, que aumentou em 0,02 ponto percentual a cada unidade de resíduo adicionada. Observou-se efeito quadrático (P<0,05) nos níveis de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado sobre o consumo de matéria seca, estimando-se consumo máximo de 2,86% peso vivo (PV) para silagens contendo 17,8% de resíduo de cervejaria. O consumo de proteína bruta apresentou comportamento quadrático, de modo que o valor máximo foi estimado em 0,29%PV de proteína bruta para o nível de 22,5% de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado. Para o consumo de extrato etéreo, houve comportamento quadrático (P<0,05), em que o valor máximo foi estimado em 0,2%PV de extrato etéreo para o nível de 28,25% de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado. O estudo de regressão mostrou comportamento quadrático (P<0,05) para o consumo de fibra em detergente neutro, em que o valor máximo foi estimado em 2,33% PV de fibra em detergente neutro para o nível de 34,58% de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado. Para os consumos de fibra em detergente ácido e matéria orgânica, não foi observada significância estatística (P>0,05). Conclui-se que silagens aditivada com níveis de 20 a 30% de resíduo de cervejaria desidratado, promoveram respostas positivas aos consumos de matéria seca, proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e fibra em detergente neutro.(AU)

Cross-cultural adaptation and reproducibility of the Brazilian-Portuguese version of the modified FRESNO Test to evaluate the competence in evidence based practice by physical therapists

BACKGROUND: The Modified Fresno Test was developed to assess knowledge and skills of both physical therapy (PT) professionals and students to use evidence-based practice (EBP). OBJECTIVES: To translate the Modified Fresno Test into Brazilian-Portuguese and to evaluate the test's reproducibility. METHOD: The first step consisted of adapting the instrument into the Brazilian-Portuguese language. Then, a total of 57 participants, including PT students, PT professors and PT practitioners, completed the translated instrument. The responses from the participants were used to evaluate reproducibility of the translated instrument. Internal consistency was calculated using the Cronbach's alpha. Reliability was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for continuous variables, and the Kappa coefficient (K) for categorical variables. The agreement was assessed using the standard error of the measurement (SEM). RESULTS: The cross-cultural adaptation process was appropriate, providing an adequate Brazilian-Portuguese version of the instrument. The internal consistency was good (α=0.769). The reliability for inter- and intra-rater assessment were ICC=0.89 (95% CI 0.82 to 0.93); for evaluator 1 was ICC=0.85 (95% CI 0.57 to 0.93); and for evaluator 2 was ICC=0.98 (95% CI 0.97 to 0.99). The SEM was 13.04 points for inter-rater assessment, 12.57 points for rater 1 and 4.59 points for rater 2. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian-Portuguese language version of the Modified Fresno Test showed satisfactory results in terms of reproducibility. The Modified Fresno Test will allow physical therapy professionals and students to be evaluated on the use of understanding EBP.

Uma pesquisa sobre o comportamento sexual do adolescente em uma escola pública de ensino médio: alguns dados para a introdução da vacinação contra o HPV / A survey on adolescent sexual behaviorin a public brazilian high school: some data to HPV vaccination introduction

Muitas evidências têm demonstrado a associação entre a infecção pelo vírus do papiloma humano (HPV) e o câncer cervical, e as vacinas profiláticas têm sido eficazes na prevenção desta infecção. Quanto ao programa de vacinação da população, é importante estudar o comportamento sexualde adolescentes, especialmente na idade de início da atividade sexual. Objetivo: Avaliar o comportamento sexual de adolescentes alunos de escolas públicas em relação a algumas variáveis associadas e relacionar a idade de início da atividade sexual com a vacinação da população contra o HPV. Métodos: O estudo se baseou na aplicação de um questionário a 500 alunos de escolas secundárias públicas da cidade de Curitiba, com idade entre 13 e 19 anos, para avaliar seu comportamento sexual e questões relacionadas. Dos 500 questionários, 488 foram respondidos e analisados por metodologia estatística. O estudo foi aprovado pelos órgãos reguladores locais. Resultados: Em relação à atividade sexual, observou-se que era mais frequente no sexo masculino do que no feminino. Percebe-se que 47,8% dos meninos e 24,6% das meninas responderam positivamente a esta pergunta. Da mesma forma, 38,7% dos meninos relataram ter iniciado atividade sexual antes dos 14 anos, comparado a apenas 8,5% das meninas. Outros dados relacionados ao risco percebido de contrair uma infecção sexualmente transmissível e uso de preservativos e contraceptivos foram avaliados. Foi demonstrada a relação entre o uso de drogas (tabaco,álcool e maconha) e atividade sexual. Cerca de 45% dos estudantes sexualmente ativos relataram uso regular de drogas, em comparação com menos de20% daqueles que relataram não ter iniciado atividade sexual (p < 0,001), enquanto essa proporção era ainda mais evidente quando analisado apenas o uso de maconha. O efeito "protetor" do ambiente familiar revela uma descoberta interessante: os adolescentes que viviam com os seus pais eram menos ativos sexualmente do que aqueles que não relataram tal situação, com uma percentagem de 31,3 % versus 59,4% (p = 0,003). Conclusão: Concluiu-se que aatividade sexual foi mais evidente entre os participantes do sexo masculino, já que a iniciação sexual ocorreu mais cedo entre os meninos. Uso de drogase independência do ambiente familiar foram relacionados a maior ocorrência de atividade sexual anterior e atual. De acordo com estudos, 90% dos alunos que já têm 17 anos de idade tinham iniciado atividade sexual; portanto, podemos concluir que a idade de vacinação proposta pela maioria das autoridades governamentais e pela Federação Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia (Febrasgo) é adequada quando se trata de prevenir a infecção pelo HPV.

Many evidences have demonstrated the association between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer, and prophylactic vaccines have been effective to prevent this infection. In relation to the vaccination program of the population, it is important to study the sexual behavior of adolescent students, especially the onset age of sexual activity. Objective: To evaluate the sexual behavior of adolescent students from public schools in relation to some associated variables and to link the onset age of sexual activity with HPV vaccination of the population. Methods: The study was based on the application of a questionnaire to 500 students of public high schools of the city of Curitiba, aged between 13 and 19 years, to assess their sexual behavior and related questions.Of the 500 questionnaires, 488 were answered and analyzed by statistical methodology. The study was approved by local regulatory bodies. Results: Regarding sexual activity, it was observed that it was most frequent along male than female students. It is noticed that 47.8% of boys and 24.6% of girls answered positively to this question. Similarly, 38.7% of boys reported having initiated sexual activity before age 14 compared to only 8.5% of the girls. Other data about the perceivedrisk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection and contraception condom were assessed. The relation between drug use (tobacco, alcohol and marijuana) and sexual activity was demonstrated. About 45% of sexually active students stated regular use of drugs, compared with less than 20% of those who reported not having initiated sexual activity (p < 0.001), where as this proportion was even more evident when analyzed only the use of marijuana. The "protector" effect of family environment shows an interesting finding: the adolescents who lived with their parents were less sexually active than those who did not report such situation witha percentage of 31.3% versus 59.4% (p = 0.003). Conclusion: We concluded that sexual activity was more evident among male participants as sexual initiationwas earlier among boys. Use of drugs and independence of family environment were related to higher rate of earlier and current sexual activity. According to researches, 90% of the students who already are 17 years old had initiated sexual activity; therefore, we can conclude that the age of vaccination proposed by most governmental authorities and the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (Febrasgo) is adequately when it comes to prevent HPV infection.

Evaluation of Physical and Physicochemical Characteristics of Malpighia emarginata DC from the State of Ceará.

The potential of acerola as a natural source of vitamin C is great, as well as its capacity for industrial use. However, this and other characteristics of the fruit can be influenced by factors such as soil type, type of reproduction and pluviometrical index. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the physical and physicochemical characteristics of acerola fruit from six regions in Ceará, harvested during the rainy season, and to compare the results obtained in Caucaia orchard, in the same period, to those obtained in the dry season. Mass, diameters, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), maturation index (MI), pH and vitamin C were evaluated. The data were evaluated in an experimental design totally randomized. All the fruits showed higher weight than the minimum required for the processing industries. The characterization of acerola fruits from different orchards showed differences in several parameters, in particular, the content of vitamin C, soluble solids and acidity. These analyses have great importance to the pharmaceutical (vitamin C) industry and to the industry of food processing (jams and juices).

Quality of life in short bowel syndrome: in a single center / Qualidade de vida na síndrome do intestino curto: em um único centro

Model of the study: This is an exploratory and descriptive study which was executed in sector of Nutrology nursing at University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (HCFMRPUSP). Objective: The aim of this research was to evaluate the perception of quality of life of individuals with short bowel syndrome (SBS) with the help of the Quality of Life Core - 30 Questionnaire (QLQ - C30). Methods: The instrument used was the EORTC- QLQ-C30 (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire/ Quality of Life Core - 30 Questionnaire) version 3.0 in Portuguese. The study was conducted on six patients with SBS. Results: The applicability of the questionnaire was adequate and the mean score obtained for this sample (70.7) was considered to be satisfactory. Conclusions: The most affected domains were: Emotional Function and Symptoms: pain, insomnia, fatigue, and diarrhea. The application of the QLQ - C30 permitted us to evaluate the perception of the patient regarding his condition and quality of life, important aspects that should be considered by the team

Modelo do estudo: Estudo de corte transversal do tipo descritivo e exploratório realizado na enfermaria da Unidade Metabólica do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidadede São Paulo (HCFMRP-USP). Objetivos do estudo: Avaliar a aplicabilidade do Quality of Life Core- 30 Questionnaire (QLQ - C30), não específico para Síndrome do intestino curto (SIC) em portadores da síndrome. Metodologia: Para a coleta de dados foi utilizado como instrumento o questionário EORTCQLQ-C30 (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire/Quality of Life Core - 30 Questionnaire) versão 3.0 em português. O estudo foi realizado com 6 pacientes com SIC. Resultados: A aplicabilidade deste questionário foi adequada; o escore médio obtido nesta amostra foi considerado satisfatório (escore médio = 70,7). Conclusões: Os domínios mais afetados foram: Função Emocional e sintomas: dor, insônia, fadiga e diarréia. A aplicação do questionário QLQ -C30 possibilitou avaliar a percepção dos pacientes quanto a sua condição de saúde e qualidade devida, revelando pontos importantes que devem ser considerados pela equipe.

Perfil do estado de saúde de mulheres climatéricas / Health status profile of climacteric women

Modelo do estudo: Estudo retrospectivo com análise de dados de prontuário. Objetivo: O presente estudo teve por objetivo verificar a freqüência de obesidade, diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial e dislipidemia em um grupo de mulheres climatéricas. Metodologia: Estudo das primeiras pacientes atendidas no Ambulatório do Climatério (ACLI) do Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto -USP, no período de1983 a 2007. De fevereiro a abril de 2008 foram coletados dados de peso, estatura, Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC), grupo biológico, diagnóstico de hipertensão, diabetes e dislipidemia. Resultados: De 1983 a 2007, 400 pacientes tiveram seguimento no Ambulatório (ACLI), e 272 apresentavam seus prontuários com os dados do presente estudo devidamente registrados. Dessas 272pacientes, foram selecionadas 628 consultas, sendo que, portanto, em média, cada mulher teve trêsretornos. Estas mulheres tinham idade mínima de 29 e máxima de 80 anos, com IMC mediano acimade 25 kg/m2. O diagnóstico de diabetes, hipertensão e dislipidemia foi detectado em, respectivamente:32%, 68% e 54% dos casos.Conclusão: Mulheres climatéricas atendidas em um hospital de nível de atendimento terciário apresentaram um aumento do IMC e da prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis com o passar dotempo, o que faz urgir um olhar mais atento dos profissionais de saúde a esse grupo populacional.

Study design: Retrospective analysis of medical records.Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension anddyslipidemia in a group of climacteric women.Methods: Study of the first patients treated at the Menopause Clinic (ACLI), Department of Obstetrics andGynecology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto (USP), from 1983 to 2007. Data on weight, height, BMI,biological group, diagnosis of hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia was collected from February/2008 until April/2008. Results: From 1983 until 2007, 400 patients were followed up, and 272 had their records registered. Of these 272 patients, 628 were selected queries, and therefore, on average, each woman had three returns. Women over the age of 29 and maximum of 80 years and median BMI above 25kg/m². The prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia was respectively 32%, 68% and 54%. The prevalence of NCDs and BMI was higher for the later groups. Conclusion: Climacteric women treated at a hospital level care center showed a worsening of the BMI and the prevalence of noncommunicable chronic diseases over time, which is urging a closer look at health professionals in this population group.

Clinical and metabolic profile of HIV-positive patients with lipodistrophy / Perfil clínico e metabólico de pacientes soropositivos para HIV portadores de lipodistrofia

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and metabolic profile of HIV-seropositive patients on HAART with a diagnosis of associated lipodystrophy. Methods: We analyzed data computed in a protocol attached to the records of patients treated at the University Hospital of the Medical School of Ribeirão Preto. Results: 69.7% of the participants were male. Mean ± standard deviation body mass index was 24.7 ± 3.6 kg/m2and 26.7 ± 5.98 kg/m2, and average weight 72.78 ± 12.7 kg and 65.94 ± 15.4 kg for males and females, respectively. The percentage of lean mass was greater in men (p = 0.0008) and body fat was greater in women (p = 0.0006)...

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil clínico e metabólico dos pacientes soropositivo para HIV, em uso de terapia antiretroviral fortemente ativa (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy - HAART) e com diagnóstico de lipodistrofia associada. Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada a partir da análise de dados computados em um protocolo anexado ao prontuário de pacientes atendidos na Unidade Especial de Tratamento para Doenças Infecciosas (UETDI), no Ambulatório de Dislipidemia (ADIS) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade deMedicina de Ribeirão Preto (HC-FMRP). Resultados: 69,7% dos participantes eram do sexo masculino. As médias (DP) de IMC foram 24,7 ± 3.6 Kg/m2 e 26,7 ± 5.98 Kg/m2 e média de peso 72,78 ±12.7 Kg e 65,94 ± 15.4 Kg para o sexo masculino e feminino, respectivamente. A porcentagem de massa magra foi maior nos homens (p=0,0008) e de gordura corporal, maior no sexo oposto (p=0,0006)...

Antileishmanial activity of 3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) propanoic acid purified from Amazonian Piper tuberculatum Jacq., Piperaceae, fruits / Atividade antileishmania do 3,4,5-trimetoxi-dihidrocinâmico purificado das frutas de Piper tuberculatum Jacq., Piperaceae, amazônica

Leishmanicidal activity of the 3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) propanoic acid (TMPP) isolated from EtOH extracts of the Amazonian Piper turbeculatum Jacq. fruits was evaluated in vitro using Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes. The TMPP was assayed at concentrations of 1600 to 6.25 µg/mL for 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Promastigotes viability was analyzed and the IC50 of TMPP was 145 µg/mL.

A atividade leishmanicida do ácido 3,4,5-trimetoxi-dihidrocinâmico (TMPP) isolado do extrato hidroalcoólico de frutos de Piper turbeculatum Jacq. amazônica foi testado em ensaios in vitro utilizando formas promastigotas de Leishmania amazonensis. O TMPP foi utilizado em culturas de L. amazonensis nas concentrações de 1600 a 6,25 µg/mL. A viabilidade celular das formas promastigotas foi observada em 24, 48, 72 e 96 h para cálculo da CI50. O TMPP apresentou efeito leishmanicida dose dependente para as formas promastigotas de L. amazonensis apresentando CI50 de 145 µg/mL.

Distribuição espacial de Tenuipalpus heveae Baker (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) na cultura da seringueira / Spatial distribution of Tenuipalpus heveae Baker (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) on rubber tree plantations

The objective of this work was to study the spatial distribution of Tenuipalpus heveae Baker in rubber tree plantations. The experimental area was located in Marinópolis, State of São Paulo, and corresponded to a total of 1,000 plants (clone RRIM 600) divided in 100 plots of ten plants each. A total of 16 samplings were conducted, approximately once every 10 days, between December 2007 and June 2008. On each date, samples were taken from two plants per plot, each sample corresponding to the top 30 cm of a branch randomly taken from the median region of the canopy of each plant. The number of T. heveae was evaluated on three leaflets randomly taken from each sample, using a 20x power pocket magnifying glass. The number of mites was evaluated in two areas of 1 cm² delimited on the lower surface of each leaflet, being one along the midrib and the other along a lateral vein. The calculated dispersion indexes were: variance/mean relationship (I), index of Morisita (I´), coefficient of Green (Cx) and k exponent of negative binomial distribution. Tenuipalpus heveae showed aggregate distribution. The negative binomial distribution model was the most appropriate to represent the spatial distribution of the mite in the rubber tree plantation.

Influência do substrato alimentar sobre o desenvolvimento de Diaphania hyalinata L. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) / Influence of nutritional substrates on the development of Diaphania hyalinata L. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Aspectos biológicos de Diaphania hyalinata L. foram estudados quando as lagartas foram criadas em dietas natural e artificial em condições de laboratório, a 25 ± 1ºC, umidade relativa de 70 ± 10 por cento e fotofase de 14h. Como dieta natural foi utilizada abóbora jacaré, pepino e abobrinha caserda e uma dieta artificial utilizada em criações de Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.), desenvolvida por Hensley & Hammond. As lagartas de D. hyalinata foram colocadas nos diferentes substratos e criadas por todo o ciclo. Observaram-se diferenças na duração do período larval, sobrevivência das larvas e pupas, longevidade do adulto e número de ovos entre os substratos. A dieta artificial a que mostrou de modo geral, mais adequada para a criação de D. hyalinata. Entre as dietas naturais, o pepino foi o que se apresentou mais adequado para criação desta praga.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the biological behaviour of melonworm at different natural and artificial diets. Squash cultivar jacaré, cucumber, summer squash and an artificial diets developed by Hensley & Hammond for the sugarcane borer were tried. The research was carried out in the Laboratório de Entomologia do Centro de Ciências Agrárias of the Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, in climatized room at 25 ± 1ºC, relative humidity of 70 ± 10 percent and 14h photofase. The caterpillars fed on each substrate during the whole life cycle. Differences in duration of the larval period, larvae and pupae survival, adult longevity and number of eggs were registered between the substrates. The results show that the best diet for rearing is the artificial one. Between the natural diets the cucumber showed the best results.

Paediatric and perinatal HIV/AIDS in Jamaica: an international leadership initiative, 2002-2007 / VIH/SIDA pediátrico y perinatal en Jamaica: iniciativa de liderazgo internacional, 2002-2007

BACKGROUND: Paediatric and Perinatal HIV/AIDS remain significant health challenges in the Caribbean where the HIV seroprevalence is second only to Sub-Saharan Africa. METHOD: We describe a collaborative approach to the prevention, treatment and care of HIV in pregnant women, infants and children in Jamaica. A team of academic and government healthcare personnel collaborated to address the paediatric and perinatal HIV epidemic in Greater Kingston as a model for Jamaica (population 2.6 million, HIV seroprevalence 1.5%). A five-point plan was utilized and included leadership and training, preventing mother-to-child transmission (pMTCT), treatment and care of women, infants and children, outcomes-based research and local, regional and international outreach. RESULTS: A core group of paediatric/perinatal HIV professionals were trained, including paediatricians, obstetricians, public health practitioners, nurses, microbiologists, data managers, information technology personnel and students to serve Greater Kingston (birth cohort 20 000). During September 2002 to August 2007, over 69 793 pregnant women presented for antenatal care. During these five years, significant improvements occurred in uptake of voluntary counselling (40% to 91%) and HIV-testing (53% to 102%). Eight hundred and eighty-three women tested HIV-positive with seroprevalence rates of 1-2% each year. The use of modified short course zidovudine or nevirapine in the first three years significantly reduced mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV from 29% to 6% (RR 0.27; 95% CI - 0.10, 0.68). During 2005 to 2007 using maternal highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) with zidovudine and lamivudine with either nevirapine, nelfinavir or lopinavir/ritonavir and infant zidovudine and nevirapine, MTCT was further reduced to an estimated 1.6% in Greater Kingston and 4.75% islandwide. In five years, we evaluated 1570 children in four-weekly paediatric infectious diseases clinics in Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine and in six rural outreach sites throughout Jamaica; 24% (377) had HIV/AIDS and 76% (1193) were HIV-exposed. Among the infected children, 79% (299 of 377) initiated HAART, resulting in reduced HIV-attributable childhood morbidity and mortality islandwide. An outcomes-based research programme was successfully implemented. CONCLUSION: Working collaboratively, our mission of pMTCT of HIV and improving the quality of life for families living and affected by HIV/AIDS in Jamaica is being achieved.

ANTECEDENTES: El VIH/SIDA pediátrico y el perinatal continúan siendo retos significativos para la salud en el Caribe, donde la seroprevalencia de VIH ocupa el segundo lugar tras el África Subsahariana. MÉTODO: Se describe un enfoque colaborativo para tratamiento, prevención y cuidado de embarazadas, bebés y niños en Jamaica. Un equipo de personal académico y gubernamental vinculados a la salud, colaboraron para abordar la epidemia de VIH pediátrico y perinatal en Greater Kingston, como modelo para Jamaica (población de 2.6 millones, 1.5% seroprevalencia VIH). Se utilizó un plan de cinco puntos que incluyó liderazgo y entrenamiento, prevención de la transmisión madre a hijo (PTMAH), tratamiento y cuidado de mujeres, bebés y niños, investigaciones basadas en resultados, y outreach local, regional e internacional. RESULTADOS: Un grupo básico de profesionales del VIH pediátrico/perinatal, que incluía pediatras, obstetras, trabajadores de la salud, enfermeras, microbiólogos, administradores de datos, así como personal y estudiantes de la tecnología de la información, fue entrenado para servir en Greater Kingston (cohorte de nacimiento 20 000). De septiembre de 2002 hasta Agosto de 2007, más de 69 793 embarazadas se presentaron para recibir atención prenatal. Durante estos cinco años, tuvieron lugar mejoras significativos en cuanto a la recepción de asesoramiento (40% to 91%) y pruebas (53% to 102%) de VIH voluntarios. Ochocientos ochenta y tres mujeres resultaron VIH positivas en las pruebas, con tasas de seroprevalencia de 1-2% cada año. El uso de un ciclo corto modificado de zidovudina o nevirapina en los primeros tres años, redujo la transmisión madre a hijo (TMAH) de VIH significativamente de 29% a 6% (RR 0.27; 95% CI - 0.10, 0.68). Durante el 2005 hasta 2007, usando terapia antiretroviral altamente activa (TARAA) materna, con zidovudina y lamivudina con nevirapina, nelfinavir o lopinavir/ritonavir y nevirapina y zidovudina para niños, la TMAH se redujo a un estimado de 1.6 % en Greater Kingston y a .75% a lo largo de la isla. En cinco años, evaluamos 1570 niños en cuatro clínicas infecciosas pediátricas semanales en Kingston, Saint Andrew y Saint Catherine, así como en seis otros lugares destinados al servicio comunitario (outreach) por toda Jamaica; 24% (377) tenían VIH/SIDA y 76% (1193) estaba expuestos al VIH. Entre los niños infectados, 79% (299 de 377) iniciaron el TARAA, lo que trajo como resultado una reducción de la mortalidad y la morbilidad infantil atribuible al VIH, en todo el país. Se implementó exitosamente un programa de investigación basado en resultados. CONCLUSIÓN: Trabajando en colaboración, estamos logrando nuestra misión de prevenir la TMAH del VIH, y mejorar la calidad de vida de las familias que viven afectadas por el VIH/SIDA en Jamaica.

Evolving care of HIV-infected pregnant women in Jamaica from Nevirapine to HAART / Evolución del cuidado de las mujeres jamaicanas infectadas por el VIH - desde la Nevirapina a la TARAA

BACKGROUND: The Ministry of Health, Jamaica, is scaling-up programmes to improve the health of HIV-positive pregnant women according to the modified WHO recommended preventative mother to child transmission (pMTCT) regimens of therapy based upon the mother's clinical and immunological status. Highly-active antiretroviral drugs (HAART) can result in successful pMTCT to < 1%. We report the clinical and immunological characteristics of HIV/AIDS in an era of evolving treatment and care of HIV-infected pregnant Jamaican women. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: Clinical records were reviewed of patients registered in antenatal clinics in Greater Kingston and St Catherine, Jamaica (annual birth cohort - 20 000) between September 2002 and August 2006. Disease status was determined using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classification system for adult HIV/AIDS. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were documented and analyzed. RESULTS: During the four-year period, 571 HIV-infected women were enrolled; 62% from Victoria Jubilee Hospital, 25% from Spanish Town Hospital and 13% from the University Hospital of the West Indies. Mean age was 27-29 (range 15-41) years, median parity was 2 (range 0-9) and 68-70% were unemployed. Ninety-five per cent had live births. CDC categories of illnesses were A - mild disease in 82% (n = 473), B - moderate disease in 4.4% (n = 24) and C - severe disease in 1.4% (n = 8) while 12% (n = 66) had insufficient data. During the first three years, CD4+ cell counts were evaluated in only 2.5% (10 of 406) of patients with median of 344 cells/uL, compared to CD4 evaluation in 50% (83 of 165 women) in the last year with median of 573 cells/uL. Antiretroviral (ARV) medications primarily for pMTCT were given to 89% (n = 506) of women. Of these, uptake of HAART increased during years 1-3 from 2-3% to 62% in year four. Within two years post-partum, 24 women died, 92% (n = 22) from the direct complications of HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive system of care of HIV in the peripartum period has been developed in Jamaica. Detailed medical evaluation during pregnancy is performed with modern guidelines and increasing laboratory availability of CD4+ cell counts and viral loads. We believe declining HIV infection rates in Jamaican infants and healthier mothers are a direct consequence of increased testing in pregnancy with early diagnosis and initiation of HAART-based pMTCT regimens in pregnant women.

ANTECEDENTES: En la actualidad el Ministerio de Salud de Jamaica se halla en plena campaña por aumentar los programas de salud para mujeres embarazadas por el VIH positivo, sobre la base de regímenes terapéuticos para prevenir la transmisión de madre a hijo (PTMAH), de acuerdo con recomendaciones modificadas de la OMS, a partir del estatus inmunológico y clínico de la madre. Los medicamentos antiretrovirales altamente activos (TARAA) pueden traer como resultado un exitoso PTMAH a < 1%. Reportamos las características clínicas e inmunológicas del VIH/SIDA en una etapa en la que el tratamiento y cuidado de las mujeres embarazadas infectadas con VIH en Jamaica, se halla en evolución. SUJETOS Y MÉTODOS: Se revisaron las historias clínicas de pacientes registrados en las clínicas prenatales en Greater Kingston y Saint Catherine (cohorte de nacimiento anual - 20 000), entre septiembre de 2002 y agosto de 2006. El estatus de la enfermedad fue determinado usando el sistema de clasificación para el VIH/SIDA en adultos, según los Centros para el Control y Prevención de las Enfermedades (CCPE). Se documentario y analizaron datos demográficos, clínicos y de laboratorio. RESULTADOS: Durante el período de cuatro años, se reclutaron 571 mujeres infectadas con el VIH, 62% del Hospital Victoria Jubilee, 25% del Hospital de Spanish Town, y 13% del Hospital Universitario de West Indies. La edad promedio fue de 27-29 años (rango 15-41), la paridad mediana fue 2 (rango 0-9), y el 68-70% eran desempleadas. El noventa y cinco por ciento tuvo nacimientos vivos. Las categorías de enfermedades de CCPE fueron la enfermedad leve A- en 82% (n = 473), la enfermedad moderada B - en 4.4% (n = 24) y la enfermedad severa C - en 1.4% (n = 8) mientras que para el 12% (n = 66) los datos fueron insuficientes. Durante los primeros tres años, los conteos CD4+ fueron evaluados en sólo 2.5% (10 de 406) de los pacientes con la mediana de 344 células/uL, en comparación con la evaluación CD4 en 50% (83 de 165 mujeres) en el último año con una mediana de 573 células/uL. Los medicamentos antiretrovirales (ARV) fundamentalmente para PTMAH fueron dados al 89% (n = 506) de las mujeres. Entre éstas, el consumo de TARAA aumentó durante los años 1-3 de 2-3% a 62% en el cuarto año. En los dos años posteriores al parto, murieron 24 mujeres, 92% (n = 22) de complicaciones directas del VIH/SIDA, CONCLUSIÓN: Un sistema integral de atención al VIH en el período de periparto ha sido desarrollado en Jamaica. Durante el embarazo, se lleva a cabo una evaluación médica detallada con normas modernas y con aumento de la disponibilidad en los laboratorios del conteo CD4+ y cargas virales. Creemos que la disminución de las tasas de infección por VIH en los infantes jamaicanos y el número de madres más saludables, son consecuencia directa del aumento de las pruebas durante el embarazo con diagnóstico precoz y regímenes de PTMAH basados en TARAA en las mujeres embarazadas.

Comunidad de maiiposas diurnas (lepidoptera:rhoalocera) en un gradiente altituudinal del cañon del río combeimatolima, Colombia / Butterflies Community (Lepidoptera:Rhopalocera) Along an Altitudinal Gradient in Combeima River Canyon Tolima, Colombia

Se estudió la variación altitudinal de la composición, riqueza, diversidad y estructura de la comunidad de mariposas diurnas en un gradiente altitudinal en la cuenca del río Combeima (JuntasTolima, Colombia), desde los 1.800 m hasta los 3.000 m a lo largo del año en tres periódos de muestreo, mediante el uso de redes entomológicas y trampas VanSomerenRydon. Se encontraron 101 especies de mariposas distribuidas en 59 géneros y cinco familias cuyos parámetros poblacionales variaron espacial y temporalmente, mostrando marcada zonificación altitudinal en los 1.900 m la cual es una franja transicional de la composición faunística y en la que a partir de ella, existe un decremento en el número de especies exclusivas para cada estación de muestreo, las cuales podrían considerarse como especies indicadoras de disturbio ecosistémico.

Altitudinal variations in composition, richness, diversity and structure were studied in the butterflies’ communities along an altitudinal gradient in Combeima River basin (JuntasTolima, Colombia) from 1800 m until 3000 m during one year through three sampling times, using insect nets and VanSomerenRydon traps. 101 butterflies species were collected that were classified into 59 genera and five families. Butterflies population values changed through altitude and year season, and showed important ecological changes in 1900 m where we found a transition zone in fauna composition and where exclusive fauna decrease in each sampling station. This exclusive fauna could be named as indicator of ecological disturbances.

Avaliação de fatores de risco associados com elevação da pressão arterial em crianças

Resumo Objetivos: identificar fatores associados a níveis elevados de pressão arterial em crianças. Métodos: estudo transversal da pressão arterial de 672 crianças entre 2 e 11 anos de idade em duas instituições de ensino de Belo Horizonte, entre setembro e dezembro de 2001. A pressão arterial foi mensurada seguindo os parâmetros estabelecidos pelo relatório do Update on the 1987 Task Force Report on High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. As seguintes variáveis foram estudadas: idade, sexo, cor da pele, índice de qualidade de vida urbana, estatura e índice de massa corporal. Para a comparação das médias, foi utilizada a análise de variância, e para a comparação de proporções, o teste qui-quadrado. As variáveis associadas a níveis mais elevados de pressão arterial foram incluídas em análise de regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: na análise univariada, níveis mais elevados de pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica estiveram associados com crianças de cor branca, crianças da região com alto índice de qualidade de vida urbana e com elevado índice de massa corporal. Na análise multivariada, apenas o índice de massa corporal, o índice de qualidade de vida urbana e a estatura mantiveram-se associados com níveis elevados de pressão sistólica. Em relação aos níveis mais elevados de pressão arterial diastólica, apenas as variáveis índice de qualidade de vida urbana e idade foram mantidas no modelo após o ajustamento. Conclusão: o sobrepeso e a obesidade estiveram associados com níveis mais elevados de pressão arterial sistólica. Outros fatores, não identificados, foram parcialmente associados a níveis mais elevados de pressão arterial de crianças do estabelecimento privado do ensino.

Summary Objective: to identify factors associated with increased arterial blood pressure in children. Methods: in this cross-sectional study, arterial blood pressure was measured in 672 children between 2 and 11 years of age from two schools in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. After providing informed consent, all children had their blood pressure and anthropometric parameters measured. Blood pressure was measured based on the recommendations of the Update on the 1987 Task Force Report on High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. The following variables were assessed: age, sex, race, urban life quality index, weight, height, and body mass index. Analysis of variance was used for comparison of means and the chi-square was used for comparison of proportions. Variables associated with increased blood pressure were included in a multiple regression model. Results: according to univariate analysis, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure were associated with high urban life quality index, white race and high body mass index. On multivariate analysis, body mass index, urban life quality index and height remained associated with increased systolic blood pressure; urban life quality index and age were associated with increased diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: in this study, excess weight and obesity were associated with increased systolic blood pressure. Other unidentified factors were partially associated with increased blood pressure in children from the school with elevated urban life quality index.

Avaliação de fatores de risco associados com elevação da pressão arterial em crianças / Evaluation of risk factors associated with increased blood pressure in children

A mensuração da pressão arterial é hoje reconhecida como um componente importante da rotina questionada por estudos epidemiológicos que têm mostrado um aumento da prevalência de hipertensão essencial na faixa etária pediátrica.