El objeto de conocimiento en la investigación cualitativa: un asunto epistemológico / The object of knowledge in qualitative research: an epistemological matter / O objeto de conhecimento na pesquisa qualitativa: um assunto epistemológico

Resumen Introducción: Los procesos reflexivos e interrogativos necesarios para desarrollar preguntas de investigación cualitativas efectivas, pueden dar forma y dirección a un estudio, sin embargo; a menudo se subestiman. Las buenas preguntas de investigación no necesariamente producen una buena investigación, pero las preguntas mal concebidas o elaboradas probablemente crearán problemas que afectarán todas las etapas posteriores de un estudio. Objetivo: Este artículo aborda el desarrollo de preguntas de investigación y cómo los procesos de generación y refinación de preguntas son fundamentales para la conformación de un estudio cualitativo. Desarrollo: Generar preguntas de investigación relevantes y adecuadas requiere que el investigador preste atención no solo a las preguntas en sí mismas, sino a sus conexiones con todos los componentes del diseño; es decir, los objetivos a los que pueden responder las preguntas; las implicaciones para las preguntas relacionadas con su marco conceptual; los métodos que podría usar para responder las preguntas y las amenazas de validez que deberá abordar. Al igual que con los otros componentes del diseño, reflexionar sobre estos temas es una herramienta extremadamente útil para desarrollar sus preguntas. Conclusiones: En los estudios cualitativos, el proceso continuo de preguntas es una parte integral en la comprensión de las vidas y perspectivas de otros. Es importante enfatizar que este tipo de investigación requiere que el investigador asuma una postura epistemológica, seleccione un método y también elija ciertas técnicas que le permitan recopilar información en el trabajo de campo.

Abstract Introduction: Although frequently underestimated, reflexive and interrogative processes needed to develop the research questions in qualitative research, can give shape and direction to a study. Good research questions do not necessarily produce a good research study, but badly conceived or elaborated research questions can create problems which will further have impacts on all stages of the study. Objective: This study addresses the development of research questions and how their generation and refinement processes are fundamental in the conformation of a qualitative study. Development: Generating relevant and adequate research questions requires the researchers to give attention to the questions and their relations to all the components of the design; in other words; to the objectives, the conceptual framework, the methods used, the possible implications involved, the validity, etcetera. Reflecting on these issues is a useful tool while developing research questions. Conclusions: In qualitative studies, the ongoing process of questioning is integral to the comprehension of the lives and perspectives of others. So, it is important to emphasize that qualitative research requires the researchers to adopt an epistemological posture by selecting methods and procedures which can support their field work information gathering.

Resumo Introdução: Os processos reflexivos e interrogativos necessários para desenvolver perguntas de pesquisa qualitativas efetivas podem dar forma e direção a um estudo, porém frequentemente são subestimados. As boas perguntas de pesquisa não necessariamente produzem uma boa pesquisa, mas as perguntas mal concebidas ou elaboradas provavelmente criarão problemas que afetarão todas as etapas posteriores de um estudo. Objetivo: Este artigo aborda o desenvolvimento de perguntas de pesquisa e como os processos de produção e refinamento de preguntas são fundamentais para a conformação de um estudo qualitativo. Desenvolvimento: Gerar perguntas de pesquisa relevantes e adequadas requer que o pesquisador preste atenção não só às preguntas em si mesmas, senão a suas conexões com todos os componentes do desenho: quer dizer, os objetivos aos que podem responder as preguntas; as implicações para as preguntas relacionadas com seu marco conceptual; os métodos que poderia usar para responder as perguntas e as ameaças de validade que deverá abordar. Ao igual que com os outros componentes do desenho, refletir sobre estes temas é uma ferramenta extremadamente útil para desenvolver suas perguntas. Conclusões: Nos estudos qualitativos, o processo contínuo de perguntas é uma parte integral na compreensão das vidas e perspectivas de outros. É importante enfatizar que este tipo de pesquisa, requer que o pesquisador assuma uma postura epistemológica, selecione um método e também eleja certas técnicas que lhe permitam recopilar informação no trabalho de campo.

Solid-phase extractions in flow analysis

ABSTRACT Coupling solid-phase extraction (SPE) to flow systems has promoted a synergistic development. Whereas SPE mechanization leads to improved precision and higher sample throughput, as well as diminishes systematic errors and contamination risks, analyte concentration and separation from the sample matrix provides a remarkable impact on detectability and selectivity in flow analysis. Historical aspects, main cornerstones, tips for system design, and recent applications are critically reviewed, in the context of analyte(s) separation/concentration, sample clean-up, and release of sorbed chemical species involving both packed (e.g. mini-columns, cartridges, and disks) or fluidized (e.g. beads and magnetic materials) particles. Novel (bio)sorbents, selective synthetic materials, and stationary phases for low-pressure chromatography are also discussed. Moreover, the feasibility of SPE for sample treatment before chromatographic separation, as well as the exploitation of direct measurements on the solid phase (optosensing) are emphasized.

Psychometric Properties of the Malay Language Version of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Questionnaire among Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Introduction: This study aimed to cross-culturally adapt a Malay version of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and to evaluate its psychometric properties in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Materials and Methods: The English version KOOS was translated into a Malay version using forward and backward translation process, followed by face validity and content validity. Two hundred and twenty-six knee OA patients attending the Outpatient and Orthopaedic Clinics, Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital, completed the Malay version KOOS. Construct validity using confirmatory factor analysis and internal reliability assessment were performed. Results: The results showed that the original five-factor model with 42 items failed to achieve acceptable values of the goodness of fit indices, indicating poor model fit. A new five-factor model of 26 items demonstrated acceptable level of goodness of fit (comparative fit index= 0.929, incremental fit index= 0.930, Tucker Lewis fit index= 0.920, root mean square error of approximation= 0.073 and Chisquared/degree of freedom= 2.183) indices to signify a model fit. The Cronbach’s alpha value for the new model ranged from 0.776 to 0.946. The composite reliability values of each construct ranged between 0.819 and 0.921, indicating satisfactory to high level of convergent validity. Conclusion: The five-factor model with 26 items in the Malay version of KOOS questionnaire demonstrated a good degree of goodness of fit and was found to be valid, reliable and simple as an assessment tool for symptoms, pain activity of daily living, sports and recreational activity and quality of life for Malaysian adults suffering from knee osteoarthritis.

Proceso de enfermería; lo que sí es y lo que no es / Nursing process; what it is and what is not

En esta reflexión nos centraremos exclusivamente en los aspectos relacionados con lo que es y no es el proceso de enfermería; puesto que las imprecisiones, omisiones o excesos en torno a este, conllevan, inevitablemente, a imprecisiones, omisiones o excesos en la disciplina de enfermería. El propósito es poner de manifiesto dichas imprecisiones, así como las consecuencias que estas pueden tener en la profesión y en la disciplina. La ciencia de enfermería se basa en un amplio marco teórico; su arte radica en las habilidades del cuidado y capacidades de cada enfermera. Los profesionales de esta área reconocen la necesidad de que sus practicantes deben actuar profesionalmente y ser responsables de la atención que ofrecen. Para asegurar la planificación y entrega efectiva de los cuidados de enfermería, los profesionales han adoptado un enfoque estructurado llamado « proceso de enfermería ¼

Escala de coma de Glasgow: origen, análisis y uso apropiado / Glasgow Coma Scale: Origin, analysis, and appropriate use

Introducción: Las enfermeras con frecuencia son responsables de la clasificación inmediata y la evaluación inicial de los pacientes con traumatismo craneoencefálico. El reconocimiento precoz de los signos del daño cerebral es fundamental para permitir la prestación de tratamientos oportunos. Objetivo: Identificarla utilidad clínica de la escala de coma de Glasgow (GCS, por sus siglas en inglés, Glasgow Coma Scale) y determinar el uso apropiado por el personal de Enfermería. Métodos: Para la búsqueda de información se seleccionaron 3 de las principales bases de datos en el área de la salud: Medline, CINHAL y BVS. Los descriptores empleados fueron: Glasgow coma scale, brain injuries, coma, trauma severity, nursing assessment, neurologic assessment, la búsqueda se limitó a 10 años, sólo en población adulta. Resultados: La GCS es un instrumento con alta sensibilidad para la valoración en pacientes con daño cerebral. Se han observado diversas fallas e inconsistencias al momento de su uso e interpretación como suponer condiciones clínicas más graves de lo que en verdad se presentan, o por el contrario, pasar por alto datos de deterioro neurológico; sin embargo, se ha demostrado que al haber un entrenamiento continuo acerca del uso de esta escala se genera una mejora significativa en las evaluaciones y el reporte de resultados entre evaluadores. Conclusiones: La valoración de Glasgow se compone de 3 subescalas que califican de manera individual 3 aspectos de la consciencia: la apertura ocular, la respuesta verbal y la respuesta motora; el puntaje se da con base en la mejor respuesta obtenida de cada uno de estos rubros. Su propósito es alertar al personal médico y de Enfermería ante alguna alteración neurológica del paciente. Proporciona un lenguaje común y objetivo para mejorar la comunicación en el reporte de los resultados conseguidos. Actualmente, es el parámetro más usado tanto en el ámbito hospitalario como en el campo prehospitalario.

Introduction: nurses are frequently responsible of immediate classification and initial as-sessment of patients suffering from a cranium encephalic traumatism. Early acknowledgement of brain damage signs is fundamental to offer timely treatments. Objective: To identify the usefulness of the Glasgow Coma Scale, and determine its appropriate use by the nursing staff. Methods: information search was performed through 3 main health databases: Medline, CINHAL and BVS. The search words used were Glasgow coma scale, brain injuries, coma, trauma severity, nursing assessment, and neurologic assessment. The search was limited to 10 years, and considering only in the adult population. Results: the Glasgow coma scale is a highly sensible instrument to assess patients with some de-gree of brain injuries. Some failures and inconsistencies in its use and interpretation have been observed, such as supposing worse clinical conditions than the real ones, or on the other hand, underestimate the neurological impairment; however, it has been demonstrated that a continuous training on the use of this scale significantlyimproves the assessments and the results outcomes. Conclusions: the Glasgow coma scale has 3 sub-scales which individually estimate 3 aspects of consciousness: ocular aperture, verbal response, and motor response. The fnal score is made up with the best responses in the 3 sub-scales. the objective is to alert the medical and nursing staff regarding any neurologic alteration in the patient. the scale has a common and objective language in order to improve the communication from the results, and at present, it is the most widely used parameter both in the hospital and pre-hospital scenarios.

Polymorphisms in Interleukin-2 and Interleukin- 7 Receptor α-Chain Genes and Human Herpes Virus-6 as Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis.

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine whether a Human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6) infection increases the risk of MS in individuals harboring particular cytokine receptor α- chain gene alleles. Study Design: MS patients and controls were assessed for HHV-6 DNA and for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in their IL7RA and IL2RA genes. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, American University of Beirut, between March 2011 and March 2013. Methodology: Blood samples from 100 MS patients and 100 controls were investigated for the presence of HHV-6 by nested PCR. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL7RA and IL2RA genes were examined by restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: HHV-6 was detected in 58% of MS patients and 32% of controls (OR = 2.935, 95% CI = 1.582-5.463, p=0.000). We did not detect a statistically significant correlation between MS and the studied rs2104286, rs12722489 SNPs in the IL2RA gene and rs6897932 SNP in the IL7RA gene. Concomitant presence of rs2104286 and HHV-6 was detected in 56% of patients and 30% of controls (OR=2.970, 95% CI=1.594-5.53, P=0.000). Similarly, rs6897932 and HHV-6 were observed in 57% of patients and 28% of controls (OR=3.409, 95% CI= 1.815-6.428, P=0.000). Therefore, double positivity moderately increased the risk of MS compared to either factor alone. HHV-6 and rs12722489 double positivity did not increase the risk of MS. Conclusion: HHV-6 infections may enhance the risk of MS in subjects with particular genetic determinants.

Anesthetic management of simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass and extended thymectomy in a patient with myasthenia gravis

A 61-yr-old male having myasthenia gravis MG [Osserman IIB], Hypertension HTN, hyperlipidemia, type II diabetes mellitus DM II, a single pelvic kidney, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD with a positive history of smoking and coronary artery disease, was admitted for uncontrolled myasthenic symptoms, cardiology team was consulted, cardiac catheterization was performed and revealed a three vessel coronary artery disease. All the findings dictated the management, a combined coronary artery bypass graft CABG and an extended thymectomy was performed. Optimization of the patient was achieved preoperatively. Total intravenous anesthesia using propofol and remifentanyl was applied to this patient. Continuous monitoring of the neuromuscular transmission NMT was maintained throughout the perioperative period. Although neither muscle relaxants nor inhalational agents were used in the anesthetic management of this patient; the patient developed postoperative atelectasis and lung collapse; which was managed successfully, and extubation of the trachea was done after ensuring adequate recovery of the NMT and respiratory function. Myasthenic therapy was continued throughout the perioperative period

Fluctuation in the levels of immunoglobulin m and immunoglobulin g antibodies for cardiolipin and beta[2]-glycoprotein among healthy pregnant women

Antiphospholipid antibodies fluctuate during a healthy normal pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate the levels of both immunoglobulin M [IgM] and Immunoglobulin G [IgG] antibodies for cardiolipin and [beta[2]-glycoprotein [beta[2]GP] among healthy pregnant women. This study was conducted between May 2010 and December 2012. A total of 75 healthy Omani pregnant women with no history of autoimmune disease were investigated during their pregnancy and 90 days after delivery at the Armed Forces Hospital in Muscat, Oman. A control group of 75 healthy Omani non-pregnant women were also investigated as a comparison. Levels of IgM and IgG antibodies for both anti-cardiolipin antibodies [ACAs] and [beta[2]GP were measured using a standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The ACA IgM levels were significantly higher in the control group compared to the pregnant women [P <0.001]. No significant differences were observed in the ACA IgM levels between the control group and the pregnant women after delivery. In contrast, ACA IgG levels were significantly higher during pregnancy and after delivery compared with those of the healthy control group [P = 0.007 and 0.002, respectively]. The levels of beta[2]GP IgG were significantly higher during pregnancy than after delivery and in the control group [P = 0.001 and <0.001, respectively]. In this study, ACA IgG levels increased during healthy pregnancies and after normal deliveries whereas beta[2]GP IgG levels increased transiently during the pregnancies. Both phenomena were found to be significantly associated with a transient decline in the levels of IgM specific for these antigens. Therefore, the levels of these antibodies may be regulated during a healthy pregnancy

Intervenciones dirigidas a disminuir/evitar el sedentarismo en los escolares / Interventions Aimed to Lower/Avoid Sedentarism in Scholars

Introducción. La obesidad tiene un origen multifactorial, uno de estos factores es la inactividad física o sedentarismo, que en conjunto con otros y a largo plazo predisponen al deterioro de la salud en general, con lo que la población infantil ya está lidiando. Los hábitos activos o sedentarios adquiridos en la infancia y la adolescencia tienden a persistir en la edad adulta. Objetivo. Identificar publicaciones, en bases de datos especializadas, sobre programas de intervención que han tenido buenos resultados para disminuir o limitar el sedentarismo en escolares. Metodología. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos Medline y Redalyc de artículos publicados durante los últimos 5 años, relacionados con intervenciones enfocadas a fomentar el ejercicio físico en escolares de 6 a 12 años. Los descriptores utilizados fueron: Sedentary, childrens and sedentary, physical inactivity. De 326 artículos que arrojaron las bases de datos, se eligieron 35 por su estrecha relación con este tema. Resultados. Hay diversas razones por las que los escolares no realizan Ejercicio Físico, entre ellas está la forma de vida que los padres de familia ofrecen a sus hijos. El buen hábito de la vida activa es influenciado por el espacio y ambiente en que los niños se desarrollan. Conclusiones. Se debe prestar mayor atención a los escolares, en todas sus actividades; alimentación, tiempo que pasan fuera de casa o solos, es necesario re ubicar o reafirmar los hábitos de vida que están adquiriendo los escolares durante su desarrollo ya que los seguirán por el resto de su vida.

Introduction: Physical inactivity is one of obesity's factors, and this problem, which in the long term impairs health in general, is already found in infantile populations whose sedentary habits tend to persist through out adulthood. Objective: to address publications on successful intervention programs in lowering or limiting sedentarism in scholars. Methodology; a Medline and Redalyc database search was performed on the last five years using the key words sedentary, children, and physical inactivity. From 326 articles located, 35 were finally kept. Results: there were several reasons to explain children's inactivity including the life-style which their parents teach them, and the space or ambience in which they grow. Conclusions: More attention should be given to scholars in their activities, nutrition, and time spent at home. It is necessary to generate good life habits which children will follow for the rest of their lives.

Prevalencia de patología oftalmológica en prematuros menores de un año de edad / Prevalence of ocular pathology in premature children under one year of age

Objetivo: Reportar hallazgos oftalmológicos en niños prematuros examinados antes del año de edad gestacional corregida (EGC). Pacientes y Método: Revisión retrospectiva de fichas clínicas de una serie de prematuros ([peso nacimiento (PN) < 1 500 g y/o < 32 sem edad gestacional (EG)] nacidos en CAS entre 2006-2009, examinados antes del año de EGC. Se consignó EG, PN, antecedente de retinopatía del prematuro (ROP), EGC al examen, refracción, anisometropia y estrabismo. Resultados: De 149 prematuros nacidos en el período, 100 tuvieron examen oftalmológico antes del año de edad (67,14 por ciento); el promedio de EG y PN fue 29,3 (rango 2336) semanas y 1217 (343-2190) g, respectivamente. El 29 por ciento presentó ROP, requiriendo tratamiento el 4 por ciento. La EGC promedio al examen oftalmológico fue 6,4 (3-11,5) meses. El equivalente esférico fue +1,34D (-1,75 a +5,75), presentando anisometropia >1D el 2,2 por ciento(95 por ciento IC, -0,82-5,26). El 3,3 por ciento (95 por ciento IC, -0,38-7,04) presentaba indicación de lentes según recomendaciones internacionales y el 4 por ciento (95 por ciento IC, 0,16-7,84) presentó estrabismo. Conclusiones: La baja prevalencia de factores de riesgo para ambliopia detectada en esta cohorte comparada con la reportada para prematuros con ROP severa podria explicarse por la baja prevalencia de ésta última en la presente serie.

Objective: To report ocular abnormalities in premature infants examined before one year of Corrected Gestational Age (CGA). Patients and Methods: Retrospective review of medical records of a number of premature infants ([birth weight (BW) < 1 500 g and/or < 32 week gestational age (GA)] born between 2006 and 2009 and examined before one year of CGA. GA, BW, retinopathy of prematurity (RQP), CGA examination, refraction, anisometropia and strabismus information were recorded. results: Out of the 149 premature infants born during the period, 100 had eye exam before one year of age (67.14 percent), the mean GA and BW was 29.3 (range 23-36) weeks and 1217 (343-2190) g, respectively. 29 percent had ROP, 4 percent required treatment. The mean CGA at the time of ophthalmologic examination was 6.4 (3 to 11.5) months. The spherical equivalent was +1.34 D (-1.75 to +5.75), 2.2 percent presented anisometropia > 1D (95 percent CI, -0.82 to 5.26). 3.3 percent (95 percent CI, -0.38 to 7.04) were in need of glasses according to international recommendations and 4 percent (95 percent CI, 0.16 to 7.84) had strabismus. Conclusions: The low prevalence of risk factors for amblyopia detected in this population compared with that reported for premature infants with severe RQP could be explained by the low prevalence of the latter in this study.

Xanthogranulomatous oophoritis secondary to talcum powder case report and review of the literature

Xanthogranulomatous inflammation of the ovary [xanthogranulomatous oophoritis] is a rare condition, usually representing a complication of tubo-ovarian abscess following pelvic inflammatory disease [PID]. We report a case of xanthogranulomatous oophoritis that occurred in a 31-year-old Lebanese lady, eight years following an open appendectomy as a reaction to talcum powder present on surgical gloves

Marco legal contra el tabaquismo: Referente obligado para la lucha antitabáquica / Legal Frame against Tobacco-Addiction: an Anti-Tobacco Campaign Reference

El tabaquismo es la principal causa mundial de enfermedades y muertes evitables. Muchas de éstas son, además, prematuras. En México esta adicción se ha convertido en un problema de salud pública. La última Encuesta Nacional de Tabaquismo reporta que, la epidemia de tabaquismo se ha incrementado en los países industrializados y en vías de desarrollo; la brecha entre el consumo de hombres y mujeres es muy similar, y el consumo se inicia a una edad cada vez más temprana, en los (primeros años de la adolescencia). La Organización Mundial de Salud (OMS) refiere que el hábito tabáquico mata casi seis millones de personas cada año, de los cuales cinco millones son usuarios y ex usuarios y más de 600,000 son no fumadores expuestos al humo de segunda mano; y es que a menos de que se tome acción, la cuota anual de muertes pudiera aumentar a más de 8 millones para el 2030; y casi el 80% de un millón de millones de fumadores viven en países de bajos y medianos ingresos. El Convenio Marco Contra el Tabaquismo(CMCT) auspiciado por la OMS es el primer tratado internacional sanitario en materia de tabaquismo. México fue el primer país en América Latina en refrendar el CMCT tras reconocer la magnitud del problema y sus complicaciones tanto en adultos como en menores de edad. El objetivo de este acuerdo es proporcionar un marco para identificar medidas de lucha antitabáquica que habrán de adoptarse mediante el compromiso de las partes para reducir el consumo de tabaco y proteger así a las generaciones presentes y futuras contra las consecuencias sanitarias, sociales, ambientales y económicas del consumo y de la exposición al humo del tabaco.

Tobacco-addiction is one of the principal causes of preventable illnesses and premature deaths in the world. In Mexico, tobacco-addiction has become a more serious public health problem. Data from the last National Survey on TobaccoAddiction suggest that its prevalence in developing countries has increased, its male-female consumption pattern has become more similar, and that it now starts at younger ages ­ the first years of adolescence. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that tobacco now kills nearly six million people each year of whom more than 5 million are users and ex users and more than 600 000 are nonsmokers exposed to second-hand smoke; that unless urgent action is taken, the annual death toll could rise to more than eight million by 2030; and that nearly 80% of the world's one billion smokers live in low- and middle-income countries. An Agreement Frame against Tobacco Addiction supported by the WHO is one of the international sanitary treaties against tobacco addiction in which Mexico has acknowledged the magnitude of the problem and its complications for both adults and children. The objective of this agreement is to provide a frame to identify measures to fight against tobacco-addiction in order to protect present and future generations from tobacco smoke inhalation and its.

need for new anti-hepatitis C virus therapeutic strategies targeting the cellular micro-ribonucleic acids?

Infection with the hepatitis C virus [HCV] is a worldwide problem. Patients with chronic HCV infection who are non-responders to standard therapy represent a growing population within the HCV epidemic.Novel, more efficient and tolerable therapies are urgently needed. This review discusses the recent results showing that targeting miR-122, a micro-ribonucleic acid [MicroRNA] that enhances HCV replication, is a new anti-HCV therapy with a high barrier to resistance

Exploiting gas diffusion for non-invasive sampling in flow analysis: determination of ethanol in alcoholic beverages

Uma membrana tubular de PTFE permeável a espécies gasosas foi empregada como sonda em sistemas de análises em fluxo visando a proposta de uma estratégia de amostragem não invasiva. Como aplicação, foi selecionada a determinação espectrofotométrica de etanol em bebidas alcoólicas. A sonda é imersa na amostra, permitindo que o analito se difunda através desta e seja coletado pelo fluxo aceptor (solução ácida de dicromato), levando à formação de Cr(III), o qual é monitorado a 600 nm. Linearidade da curva analítica é verificada até 50,0% (v/v) de etanol (r > 0,998; n = 8), derivas de linha base são menores do que 0,005 absorbância durante períodos de 4 horas de operação e a velocidade analítica é de 30 h-1 o que corresponde a 0.6 mmol K2Cr2O7 por determinação. Os resultados são precisos (d.p.r. < 2%) e concordantes com aqueles obtidos por um método oficial.

Corynebacterium bovis e os padrões de contagem de células somáticas no Brasil / The corynebacterium bovis and the somatic cell counting standards in Brazil / El Corynebacterium bovis y los paradrones celulares somáticos en brasil

Foram estudadas 60 amostras de leite de glândulas mamárias bovinas naturalmente infectadas pelo Corynebacterium bovis em estado puro, exuberante e que apresentavam pelo menos uma glândula contralateral com cultivo microbiológico negativo, provenientes de cinco propriedades leiteiras localizadas no interior do estado de São Paulo. Essas foram cultivadas em ágar sangue ovino e em agar MacConkey e submetidas à contagem eletrônica de células somáticas. Obtiveram-se medianas de contagens de células somáticas (CCS), 262 x 10³ céls/mL e 806 x 10³ céls/mL de leite, para as amostras negativas e positivas ao Corynebacterium bovis respectivamente, sendo que, em alguns casos positivos, a CCS superou 10.000.000 céls/mL de leite. Os dados obtidos no presente estudo sugerem que o Corynebacterium bovis é responsável por alterações celulares significativas no leite, podendo acarretar prejuízos aos produtores e à indústria de laticínios, na medida que se observam os padrões celulares stabelecidos pelo Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento em vigor desde setembro de 2002.

ABSTRACT: Sixty milk samples from bovine mammary glands naturally infected by Corynebacterium bovis in pure state, which presented at least one contralateral gland with negative microbiological culture from fi ve dairy farms in the State of Sao Paulo were studied. These samples were cultivated in MacConkey agar and submitted to an electronic Somatic Cell Counting (SCC). The medians of SCC results were 262 x 103 cells/mL and 806 x 103 cells/mL from negative and positive milk samples to C. bovis respectively. In some positive samples to the agent, it was observed SCC over 10.000.000 cells/mL of milk suggesting that C. bovis may be responsible for signifi cant cell alterations in the milk, which might cause serious economic damages to the producers and to the milk industry, according to the cell standards established by Agriculture Ministry, Brazilian law from September of 2002

RESUMEN: Fueron estudiadas sesenta muestras de leche de glándulas mamarias bovinas naturalmente infectadas por el Corynebacterium bovis en cultivo puro, provenientes de cinco haciendas lecheras localizadas en el interior del estado de São Paulo. Las muestras fueron cultivadas en agar sangre ovino y en agar MacConkey, y sometidas a cómputo electrónico de células somáticas. Se obtuvo medianas de los cómputos de células somáticas, 262 x 103 céls/mL y 806 x 103 céls/mL en la leche, para las muestras negativas y positivas al Corynebacterium bovis respectivamente, siendo que en algunos casos positivos, la CCS superó 10.000.000 céls/mL de leche. Los datos obtenidos en el presente estudio sugieren que el Corynebacterium bovis es responsable por alteraciones celulares signifi cativas en la leche, pudiendo acarrear perjuicios a los productores y a la manufactura de lácteos, en la medida que se observan los moldes celulares establecidos por el Ministerio de la Agricultura, Pecuaria y Abastecimiento en vigor desde setiembre de 2002

Características físico-químicas e contagem de células somáticas de leite proveniente de vacas naturalmente infectadas por streptococcus spp / Physic-chemical characteristics and somatic cell count in bovine milk naturally infected by streptococcus spp / Características físico-químicas y cómputo de células somáticas de leche de vacas naturalmentee infectadas por streptococcus spp

Foram estudadas 1051 vacas da raça Holandesa de seis propriedades leiteiras do estado de São Paulo. As amostras de leite foram cultivadas em ágar sangue ovino 8% e ágar MacConkey, sob aerofilia, por até 96 horas na intenção de isolar Streptococcus spp em estado puro. Confirmada a presença do agente, bem como a ausência de outros microrganismos aeróbicos nas amostras, realizaram-se as seguintes provas: densidade, gordura, extrato seco total (EST), extrato seco desengordurado (ESD), acidez (ºD), crioscopia, prova quantitativa para proteína, prova quantitativa para cloretos, contagem de células somáticas (CCS), bem como a classificação taxonômica do agente. A análise estatística dos resultados revelou que os Streptococcus spp promoveu alterações significativas no que diz respeito aos parâmetros densidade, gordura, teor de cloretos e contagem de células somáticas. Os resultados referentes aos padrões de proteína, EST, ESD e acidez não apresentam alterações estatisticamente significativas entre o grupo de amostras positivas para o agente e o grupo negativo. Com base nas alterações observadas conclui-se que o Streptococcus spp, como agente etiológico das mastites, causa perdas econômicas significativas aos produtores, indústria e consumidores da cadeia do leite.

ABSTRACT: 1051 Holstein cows from six dairy farms in Sao Paulo state - Brazil were studied. Milk samples were cultivated in sheep blood agar and 8% MacConkey agar, under aerobic conditions for 96 hours in order to isolate Streptococcus spp in pure state. All the positive samples and the control group of negative ones were submitted to the following tests: density, fatness, total dry extract (EST), fatless dry extract (ESD), acidity (ºD), cryoscopy, quantitative protein proof, quantitative chlorine proof, somatic cell count (SCC) as well as the taxonomic classifi cation of the agent. The statistical analysis showed that Streptococcus spp was responsible for signifi cant alterations in the parameters of density, fatness, chlorine and CCS. The results from the standards of protein, EST, ESD and acidity didn't present alterations statistically signifi cant among the positive samples for the agent and the negative group. Based on the observed alterations it was concluded that Streptococcus spp, as etiologic agent of mastitis, can cause signifi cant economic losses to producers, industry and milk consumers.

RESUMEN: Fueron estudiadas 1051 vacas de la raza Holandeza de seis propriedades de leche del Estado de São Paulo. Las muestras de leche fueron cultivadas en agar sangre de ovino 8% y agar MacConkey, bajo aerofi lia, hasta 96 horas para intentar aislar Streptococcus spp en estado puro. Confi rmada la presencia del agente, así como la ausencia de otros microorganismos aeróbicos en las muestras, fueron realizadas las siguientes pruebas: densidad, grasa, extracto seco total EST), extracto seco sin grasa (ESD), acidez (D), crioscopia, prueba cuantitativa para las proteinas prueba cuantitativa para los cloretos, cómputo de las células somáticas (CCS), así como la clasifi cación taxonómica del agente. El análisis estadístico de los resultados reveló que los Streptococcus spp promovieron alteraciones signifi cativas para los parámetros densidad, grasa, tenor de cloretos y cómputo de células somáticas. Los resultados referentes a los moldes de proteínas, EST, ESD y acidez no presentaron alteraciones estadísticamente signifi cativas entre el grupo de muestras positivas para el agente y el grupo negativo. Basándose en las alteraciones observadas se conclui que el Streptococcus spp, como agente etiológico de la infección, causa pierdas económicas signifi cativas a los productores, a la industria y a los consumidores de la leche.

Cambios en la patogenicidad de eimeria acervulina en presencia de aflatoxina B1 en pollos de engorde / Patonenicity changes of eimeria acervulina in presence of aflatoxin B1 in broiler chickens

Con objeto de estudiar los efectos de la Aflatoxina B1 (AFB1), Eimeria acervulina (E. acervulina) y la combinación de ambos factores, sobre los pollos de engorde, se realizó un estudio bajo un diseño completamente aleatorizado con arreglo factorial 32, con dos factores: niveles de AFB1 de no detectables, 20 y 200 mg/kg y tres niveles de infestación con E. acervulina de 0, 250.000 y 500.000 oocystos. El experimento contó con un total de 216 aves y una duración de 5 semanas. El alimento fue contaminado con un estándar de AFB1 y se verificó los niveles deseados con la técnica de inmunoafinidad Aflatest©. Cada réplica recibió alimentación adálibitum y a la cuarta semana fueron inoculados con oocystos de E. acervulina. A la quinta semana, se realizó la necropsia y toma de muestras para histología y parasitología. Los frotis por aposición para E. acervulina resultaron positivos para los tratamientos donde hubo infección. Los resultados histológicos para E. acervulina evidencian los efectos de los dos niveles de inóculo sobre el duodeno. Cuando están presentes las dos variables se presentan dos situaciones. Para el nivel de 20 mg/kg de AFB1, hubo un aumento de la patogenicidad por E. acervulina para ambos inóculos, en cambio para el nivel de 200 mg/kg de AFB1, por el efecto de erosión epitelial de ésta sobre la vellosidad, hubo una disminución de la patogenicidad para los dos inóculos de E. acervulina. Sobre la ganancia de peso no se evidenció interacciones estadísticamente significativa entre las variables; hubo influencia tanto de la AFB1 con sus dos niveles, como con los dos inóculos de E. acervulina, produciendo una disminución estadísticamente significativa en comparación con el tratamiento control. En conclusión, existe evidencia de que niveles de 20 mg/kg de AFB1 pareciesen hacer al duodeno más susceptible para la infección con E. acervulina, mientras que nivel de 200 mg/kg de AFB1 parece disminuir la patogenicidad de E. acervulina.

Genetic relationships among serogroup B: serotype 4 Neisseria meningitidis strains

We compared the results obtained by serotyping of PorB epitopes using an expanded panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) including mAb 7 and mAb 10, with results obtained by RFLP of rRNA genes (ribotyping). The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation between phenotypic- and genotypic- methods for typing N. meningitidis. The ribotypes obtained using ClaI or EcoRV endonucleases grouped the strains in seven and two different patterns, respectively. This additional characterization of PorB epitopes improved the correlation between these two methods of typing N. meningitidis