Lernaeid parasites prevalence in commercial freshwater fish species at various fish farms in Pakistan

Abstract Reports abound on Lernaea parasitizing the brood stock, fingerlings, and marketable-sized culturable freshwater fish species in various parts of the world. We investigated seven small-scale aquaculture farms and how the prevailing Lernaea is impacting them. Randomly seven fish farms were selected to determine the prevalence percentage of lernaeid ectoparasites. Relevant information of the fishponds to estimate the various aspects such as effects of water source and quality, feed, stocking density, treatment used, and weight and length of fish, concerned with Lernaea infestation and prevalence was gathered. The results indicated that Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) showed highest prevalence (41.7%) among the seven fish species, whereas Oreochromis niloticus showed zero. Other five fish species Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix showed 13.2%, 8.1%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 0.9% prevalence, respectively. In Royal Fish Farm 84.3% lernaeid infestation was observed, while no parasite was observed in the Vicents Chunnian fish farm. The water source, quality, feed, fertilizers, stocking density, water temperature, and potential treatment options displayed varying tendencies among fish farms and prevalence. Depending on the weight and length, the highest prevalence (56.7%, and 66.7%) was observed in 3501-4000 g and 81-90 cm groups. The infestation rate varied in various fish body parts with the dorsal fin the most vulnerable organ and showed 2.3% overall prevalence (while 18.4% contribution within total 12.6% infestation). Out of 147 infected fish samples, 45 were extensively contaminated by Lernaea spread. In conclusion, our findings confirm that Lernaea could pose a considerable threat to marketable fish, and various treatment options should be educated to the farmers to help mitigate the spread and potential losses. Furthermore, Catla catla is more vulnerable to Lernaea infestation (41.7%), so are the fish species being cultured at higher stocking densities.

Resumo Abundam os relatórios sobre Lernaea parasitando o estoque de cria, alevinos e espécies de peixes de água doce cultiváveis de tamanho comercial em várias partes do mundo. Investigamos sete fazendas de aquicultura de pequena escala e de que maneira a Lernaea predominante está impactando-as. Aleatoriamente, sete fazendas de peixes foram selecionadas para determinar a porcentagem de prevalência de ectoparasitas de Lernaea. Foram recolhidas informações relevantes sobre os viveiros de peixes para estimar os vários aspectos, tais como efeitos da fonte e qualidade da água, alimentação, densidade de povoamento, tratamento utilizado e peso e comprimento dos peixes, relacionados com a infestação e prevalência de Lernaea. Os resultados indicaram que Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) apresentou maior prevalência (41,7%) entre as sete espécies de peixes, enquanto Oreochromis niloticus apresentou zero. Outras cinco espécies de peixes Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita e Hypophthalmichthys molitrix apresentaram 13,2%, 8,1%, 7,7%, 7,4%, 0,9% de prevalência, respectivamente. Em Royal Fish Farm, 84,3% de infestação de Lernaea foi observada, enquanto não se observou nenhum parasita na fazenda de peixes Chunnian de Vicent. A fonte de água, qualidade, ração, fertilizantes, densidade de estocagem, temperatura da água e opções de tratamento potenciais exibiram tendências variadas entre as fazendas de peixes e prevalência. Dependendo do peso e comprimento, a maior prevalência (56,7% e 66,7%) foi observada nos grupos de 3501-4000 g e 81-90 cm. A taxa de infestação variou em várias partes do corpo dos peixes, sendo a nadadeira dorsal o órgão mais vulnerável e apresentou 2,3% de prevalência geral (enquanto 18,4% de contribuição dentro do total de 12,6% de infestação). Das 147 amostras de peixes infectados, 45 estavam amplamente contaminadas pela propagação de Lernaea. Em conclusão, nossos resultados confirmam que Lernaea pode representar uma ameaça considerável para peixes comercializáveis, e várias opções de tratamento devem ser educadas para os agricultores para ajudar a mitigar a propagação e as perdas potenciais. Além disso, Catla catla é mais vulnerável à infestação por Lernaea (41,7%), assim como as espécies de peixes sendo cultivadas em densidades de estocagem mais altas.

Comparison of visual acuity and ocular symptoms among computer users and non-users in young adults in Lucknow

Background: The multitude of ocular health problems has raised in recent times due to increased use of computers. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to compare the visual acuity and ocular symptoms between computer users and non-users among young adults in Lucknow. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 370 students after obtaining Ethical Committee approval. Samples were collected using convenience sampling as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. In a validated self-administered questionnaire, demographic information, computer usage patterns, and accompanying visual symptoms were documented. Values of parameter were collected using Snellen’s chart. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, 16.0 version was used for data analysis. Two sample t test will be used to relate between the quantitative variables. Results: A total of 370 study subjects were included in this study. About, majority of the participants (54%) were males, the participants were males accounting for a total of 54%. The age of the participants ranged from 15 to 40 years with a mean of 26.86 years. Average uses of screen time by computer user and non-user were 2.30 ± 0.90 and 10.60 ± 0.75, respectively. About 39% students suffering with eye strain which was major ocular symptom in the study followed by 30.8% watery eye. Conclusion: This study concludes that the use of a computer for an extended period of time without any physical activity can lead to eyesight problems and lower efficiency.

The role of tumor budding in colorectal adenocarcinoma: Possible involvement of the intestinal cancer stem cell marker Lgr5

Background: Tumor budding (TB) is a promising prognostic factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) that is independent of tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging. Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) is a stem cell marker and a member of the canonical Wnt-signaling cascade. It is involved in colorectal carcinogenesis. However, its role in CRC progression and TB needs to be clarified. Materials and Methods: TB was assessed in both H and E and CK immunostained sections of 92 CRC cases. Associations between TB grade and different clinicopathological parameters were evaluated. Lgr5 expression in CRC cases and its association with TB grade and other clinicopathological features was also evaluated. Results: H and E stained sections revealed low- and high-grade budding in 55 (59.8%) and 37 (40.2%) tumors, respectively, whereas Cytokeratin Immunohistochemistry (CK-IHC) showed low- and high-grade budding in 31 (33.7%) and 61 (66.3%) tumors, respectively. TB grade (in H and E and CK stained sections) was significantly associated with adverse pathological prognostic variables including vascular invasion (P = 0.03 and 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001 and 0,001), advanced Dukes (P = 0.000 and 0.000), and TNM (P = 0.001 and 0.000) stages and inversely associated with Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILS) (P = 0.02 and 0.0001) which is known to be a good prognostic indicator. Lgr5 protein was positively expressed in 52.2% (48/92) of the CRCs. Immunoreactivity of Lgr5 was significantly associated with histological grade (P = 0.01), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.002), vascular invasion (P = 0.02), TNM stage (P = 0.000), Dukes stage (P = 0.000), and TILS (P = 0.03). Furthermore, Lgr5 was found to be significantly associated with TB estimated in both H and E and CK stained tumors (P = 0.003 and 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: This study supported the relevance of TB in the assessment of CRC aggressiveness. It also revealed that Lgr5 expression is related to morphologic features in the invasive front of CRC. Lgr5 could have an important role in forming a morphologic feature at the invasive front associated with the aggressiveness of the tumor.

A roadmap to improve health care services in Jodhpur city slum through resource mapping

Background: Mapping of resources helps us in identifying those resources which can be used more pragmatically, for interventions and programs related to human health especially during emergency conditions. Resource mapping identifies the resources that can realistically be used for health related interventions, programs and during an emergency. Aim and Objectives: The primary objective was to locate the basic healthcare related resources available in that area. Secondary objectives were to Understand and compare these resources along certain important dimensions using qualitative research methods and to identify possible existing gaps, share the results with the local stakeholders and suggest effective interventions. Material & Methods: Manual mapping method was used to locate the available healthcare related services in urban slum area. FGDs were held to compare utilization of resources along eight dimensions. In depth interviews were held with existing healthcare service providers, stakeholders and local residents to assess their utilization and needs. Results Existing health services used by community were local herbal clinic, district hospital, Anganwadi Centre, mobile clinic, wellness clinic and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jodhpur. Conclusions The manual mapping and qualitative techniques used showed that existing resources lacked in (a) providing in situ primary care (b) clinical services by a female gynecologist (c) health education services to address existing drug addiction and substance abuse.This exercise helped in rapid need assessment and prioritizing of interventions.

Prolongation of survival time of incurable terminal cancer patients with herbal medicines

Background: The purpose of present study was to know the relation between the four blood groups (A, B, AB, and O) and high academic scores among students of Government medical colleges of North India. Materials and methods: Study was conducted in Department of Physiology, Dr BSA Medical College, Delhi and UCMS, Delhi on 247 medical students both males and females of age group 18-20 years. Blood groups were collected from past medical records during the time of admission and Confirmation was done during the blood grouping practical classes. Blood group, completion test marks, internal assessment marks (theory, practical and viva-voce) in percentage were tabulated. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS 16.0 software. Results: Out of 247 students 98 students were B group, 76 students were O group, 57 students were A group and 16 students were AB group. Total number of Blood group B students (N=22) who scored high marks were more than the other blood group students. While the %age of students of A blood group (29.8%) were more than other blood groups. Conclusion: Though our study showed that there was a variation in the academic scores between the blood groups A, B, O and AB, there was no significant association (p < 0.05) found between any blood group and academic scores. So, the conclusion of our study was that there was no real correlation between blood groups and academic scoring

Diagnosis and underdiagnosis of comorbidities in psoriasis patients - need for a multidisciplinary approach

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that manifests predominantly in the skin, although systemic involvement may also occur. Although associated comorbidities have long been recognized and despite several studies indicating psoriasis as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events, little has been done in general medical practice regardind screening. In the United States, less than 50% of clinicians are aware of these recommendations. OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence of these comorbidities in 296 patients followed up at a university dermatology clinic. METHODS: Systematically investigated comorbidity frequencies were compared with general practitioners' registry frequencies. Clinical features correlated with comorbidities were also investigated. RESULTS: High prevalences of systematically investigated comorbidities such as hypertension (30%) and dyslipidemia (26.5%) were documented. Conversely, data from general practitioners' records showed that 33% of dyslipidemia cases were undiagnosed and indicated possible underdiagnosis of some comorbidities. Furthermore, an association was found between: the number of comorbidities and psoriasis duration, age and high body mass index an association was found between the number of comorbidities and psoriasis duration, age, high body mass index, waist circumference or waist-to-hip ratio. (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Disease duration, age and high body mass index, waist circumference or waist-to-hip ratio are possible criteria for choosing which patients should be screened for comorbidities. Underdiagnosis of comorbidities by general practitioners highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach in psoriasis management.

Study on the determinants of pregnancy outcome.

Objectives: Adequate nutrient intake during pregnancy is important to fetal and maternal health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors affecting pregnancy outcome and to provide basic data to promote more favorable pregnancy outcomes Material and methods: Data were collected from 100 pregnant women at two hospitals in Hail region of Saudi Arabia. Demographic characterstics, anthropometric measurements and health related habits were obtained using a questionnaire at the hospital visit soon after the delivery. Data on pregnancy outcomes, including birth weights and gestational ages, were obtained from hospital records. Birth weights were divided into three groups, a low birth weight group (birth weight <2.5 kg), a normal birth weight group (2.5 -3.9 kg ) and a high birth weight group (≥4 kg). Results: The Socioeconomic status was significantly with the birth weight (p<0.05), with high birth weight group babies belonging to high income group and low birth weight babies from lower income groups only. Weight and BMI of the mothers before pregnancy, total weight gain during pregnancy and hemoglobin levels were found to be significantly correlated with the birth weight. (p<0.05). Few health related habits and risk factors were significantly different among the three groups. Birth weight or sex of the baby was not significantly affected by gestational age. Conclusion: Birth weight remained an important factor affecting the neonatal infant and childhood mortality and morbidity. Low birth weight babies are more likely to have disabilities in four of developmental delay, poor growth and mental disabilities. For reducing the prevalence of low birth weight, public health strategy needs to focus attention on better maternal nutrition and education.

To Assess the Burden of and Trends in Extra Pulmonary Tuberculosis at a Tertiary Care Hospital in India.

Introduction: Extra pulmonary form of tuberculosis is an important public health disease which cannot be ignored because of its low transmissibility. Data on the exact burden of the disease in developing countries is scarce. Aim: To assess the burden of the disease in a tertiary care hospital of India. To study the clinical trends in the disease, and the utility of various diagnostic modalities for its diagnosis. To identify the Mycobacterial species and perform drug susceptibility test. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out for a period of two years. A total of one hundred and forty seven samples were tested for extrapulmonary tuberculosis using a combination of bacteriological, cytological, histological and biochemical techniques to achieve proper diagnosis of the disease. Results: Young adults and females predominated in the study group and positive cases. Microbiologically, 26% of the specimens were positive. Eighteen percent of them were found to be culture positive for M. tuberculosis. Smear by Ziehl Neelsen stain was positive in 9%. A combination of culture media both solid and liquid maximized the yield of Mycobacteria. Lymph node tuberculosis was found to be the predominant type followed by others. Fifteen percent of the strains were found to be resistant to the first line drugs used in treatment of tuberculosis. Cytology and biochemical findings were found to be less specific in diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Conclusion: Extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis is seen in significant number of the suspects. Hence, attention should be paid towards its proper and early diagnosis followed by rational management, as if neglected may lead to associated complications and sequalae.

Tuberculosis Burden -In Non-HIV Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Hyderabad Telangana State.

Introduction: The revised national tuberculosis control program of India has been able to reduce the disease burden significantly. Despite; TB continues to affect 40% of our population. To achieve the desired goal of NSP {national strategic plan} 2012-2017 we need to have a focused approach on the disease prevalence and the most vulnerable. Aim: To estimate the burden of tuberculosis both pulmonary and extra pulmonary in non HIV patients at a tertiary care hospital in Hyderabad Telangana state South India. Materials and Methods: Over a period of two years from Jan.2013- Jan.2015 a total of two hundred and twenty six specimens, seventy eight from pulmonary and one hundred forty eight from extra pulmonary tuberculosis suspects were processed by various methods to achieve diagnosis. Results: Microbiologically the disease was observed in 25% of the studied subjects. Pulmonary tuberculosis accounted for 10% and extra pulmonary in 15%. Overall smear by ZN stain was positive in 17% and culture in 20%. Cytology could detect disease in 67% of the suspects. Biochemical findings were insignificant. Drug resistance was noted in 4.4% of the cases. Drug resistance and MDR tuberculosis was more common in pulmonary form than in extra pulmonary. Females dominated both in the suspect’s and culture confirmed cases as 53% & 76% respectively. The most affected age group for extra pulmonary disease remained as 6-35 years for both the sexes. In case of pulmonary tuberculosis it was noted as 36-50 years for men. Conclusion: TB affects one third of the suspects. In the present study EPTB has exceeded PTB in the proportion of the laboratory confirmed suspects of tuberculosis. Both the forms of disease are more common in females and young age which needs to be prioritized in the control program to achieve the desired target of NSP.

Life style Factors Influencing BMI of Females In Ha’il Region.

Background: Published health promoting or health risk behaviors data in a young population is sparse for Saudi Arabia. Identifying health risk factors early in life and promoting primary prevention interventions among the youth is of utmost importance to move in a healthier direction Objectives: The aim of this study is to identify the socio-economic factors influencing BMI in female students in University of Hail. Methodology: A cross sectional survey was carried out to evaluate dietary behaviors in a random sample of 200 adolescent students, from UOH female campus during the winter semester. Self administered questionnaire for dietary behaviors was used for survey by following anonymity and privacy. Results: This study was conducted to measure BMI and determine the socioeconomic factors affecting the relative weight of young adult females living in the city of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. A total of 200 female subjects (mean ± SD: age: 19.76 ± 1.98 years and BMI: 23.47 ± 5.58 kg/m2) participated in the present survey. 28.5 % percent of study sample were either overweight or obese. Age wise distribution indicates overweight and obesity significantly increases with age. Breakfast is frequently skipped in overweight and obese subjects while frequency of snacking less among them. Findings of the current study also suggest habit of frequent snacking behavior inverse association with BMI. The current study findings have indicated no clear impact of physical activity on obesity prevalence.

Tratamento cirúrgico do adenoma hepático roto: experiência de 17 anos / Surgical treatment of ruptured hepatocellular adenoma: 17 years of experience

Introdução: o adenoma hepático roto é uma complicação incomum, exigindo alta suspeita clínica devido ao risco que representa. Exige pronta investigação diagnóstica com exames radiológicos. Após reposição volêmica, seu tratamento pode envolver desde a embolização transarterial hepática até a cirurgia de urgência. Objetivo: analisar fatores de risco e o tratamento cirúrgico dos adenomas hepáticos com rotura detectados em nosso serviço. Método: foram avaliados retrospectivamente os prontuários de 28 pacientes com adenoma hepático operados no período de 1995 a 2012. Foram analisadas variáveis epidemiológicas e clínicas, os sinais de rotura foram categorizados como intraperitoneal ou subcapsular, o tumor classificado como único ou múltiplo. Foram avaliados o tempo cirúrgico e a perda sanguínea intraoperatória. Resultado: dos 28 casos, 3 (11%) estavam rotos. Os três eram do sexo feminino, apresentaram rotura espontânea e duas faziam uso de anticoncepcional oral. Não se observou sinal de malignização em nenhum. A idade média foi de 32 anos. Foi realizado tratamento cirúrgico por hepatectomia direita em todos. Dois apresentaram rotura intraperitoneal e subcapsular e uma subcapsular apenas. O tamanho médio das lesões foi de 10 cm, sendo que, em dois casos, era única, e em uma múltipla. Médias de sangramento foram de 1000 ml, transfusão de 4 concentrados de hemácias e tempo cirúrgico de 6 horas. Nenhuma das pacientes apresentava cirrose, consumia bebidas alcoólicas ou alteração significativa dos níveis das enzimas hepáticas. No pós-operatório, um paciente evolui com pneumonia e uma paciente apresentou insuficiência hepática, evoluindo a óbito. Conclusão: o adenoma hepatocelular roto é uma condição potencialmente ameaçadora à vida, associada em nossa amostra ao tamanho da lesão e ao uso de anticoncepcional oral. O tratamento cirúrgico está associado a ressecções hepáticas maiores, com necessidade de transfusão sanguínea. A experiência vivida em nosso centro demonstra que o uso da radiologia intervencionista possa ser um procedimento para reduzir esta mortalidade.

Background: spontaneous hepatic rupture is a rare clinical event that needs to be carefully evaluated due to the high risks involved. The diagnosis is often made after abdominal imaging. Volemic resuscitation, selective transarterial embolization or surgical resections have been used. Aim: the aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology, risk factors and treatment performed in our service. Methods: we reviewed the medical records of 28 patients from 1995 to 2012 with a diagnosis of hepatocellular adenoma. We analyzed epidemiology, clinics variables, the ruptured adenomas were divided into either intrahepatic hemorrhage or intraperitoneal bleeding categories. Results: three (11%) of the 28 patients had ruptured hepatocellular adenoma. These three patients were women, had spontaneous ruptures and a background of oral contraceptive use. The mean age was 32 years old. They were submitted to right hepatectomy; two were associated with intrahepatic and intraperitoneal hemorrhage while one had only intrahepatic bleeding and none had malignant transformation. The mean diameter of the lesion was 10cm, two was unique and one was multiple. The means of bleeding loss was 1000ml, surgical time of six hours and transfusion of four red blood cells bag. No one of the patients has cirrhosis, alcoholism or significant variation of liver enzymes profile. In the postoperative period one patient had pneumonia while another had hepatic insufficiency and died. Conclusion: spontaneous hepatic rupture is a potential hazard to patients associated with the size of the tumor and the potency of the oral contraceptive used. In this condition emergency surgery can be required leading to a major resection with accompanying blood transfusion. Our experience concluded that interventional radiology procedures can decrease mortality.

Mamíferos de um Fragmento Florestal em Volta Redonda, Estado do Rio de Janeiro / Mammals of a forest fragment in Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro state

O Estado do Rio de Janeiro, cuja fauna de mamíferos é uma das mais estudadas do Brasil, ainda possui áreas pouco amostradas, para as quais nenhum estudo foi publicado. No presente estudo são listadas as espécies de mamíferos que ocorrem em fragmento florestal, localizado na região do Médio Paraíba do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. O rápido inventário foi realizado utilizando armadilhas do tipo Sherman e Tomahawk, armadilhas de queda, redes de neblina, avistamentos e relatos de moradores locais. Foram registradas 46 espécies de mamíferos, das quais nove encontram-se na lista da fauna ameaçada de extinção. Além disso, espécies de marsupiais Didelphis aurita e Gracilinanus microtarsus e o rato Juliomys pictipes são consideradas endêmicas da Mata Atlântica. Morcegos constituíram o grupo com maior representatividade de espécies (15,32%), seguido de roedores e carnívoros, ambos com 10,22%. Os resultados indicam que o Parque abriga 24,2% das espécies de mamíferos com ocorrência conhecida para o Estado, destacando a sua importância como área de proteção para o Médio Paraíba Fluminense, onde existem poucas unidades de conservação.a

The state of Rio de Janeiro, whose mammals species is one of the most studied in Brazil, still has areas poorly sampled, for which no study has been published. This study aims to survey the mammals of a forest fragment, located in the Médio Paraíba region of Rio de Janeiro state. The rapid mammal's survey was conducted using Sherman,Tomahawk and pitfall traps, mist nets , sightings and reports of local residents. We recorded 46 species of mammals, of which nine are on the list of threatened fauna. Moreover, the marsupials Didelphis aurita and Gracilinanus microtarsus, and the mice Juliomys pictipes are considered endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Bats were the group most representative species (15.32%), followed by rodents and carnivores, both with 10.22%. The results indicate that the park harbors 24.2% of mammal species known to occur in the state, highlighting its importance as a protected area for the Médio Paraíba, where there are few units of conservation.

Oral live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine (RotarixTM) offers sustained high protection against severe G9P[8] rotavirus gastroenteritis during the first two years of life in Brazilian children

In a large Phase III trial conducted in 10 Latin American countries, the safety and efficacy of the live attenuated monovalent rotavirus vaccine RIX4414 was evaluated in 15,183 healthy infants followed up during the first two years of life. Belém was the only site in Brazil included in this multicentre trial. The study in Belém included a subset of 653 infants who were followed up until 24 months of age for protection against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis. These subjects were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive two doses of vaccine (n = 328) or two doses of placebo (n = 325) at approximately two and four months of age. Of the 653 enrolled infants, 23 dropped out during the study period. For the combined two-year period, the efficacy of RIX4414 was 72.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 37.5-89.1%] against severe rotavirus-related gastroenteritis, reaching a protection rate of 81.8% (95% CI 36.4-96.6%) against circulating wild-type G9 rotavirus strains. It is concluded that two doses of RIX4414 are highly efficacious against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis in Belém during the first two years of life and provide high protection against the worldwide emergence and spread of G9P[8] strains.

Validade da equação de Henry e Rees que estima a taxa metabólica de repouso em adolescentes masculinos / Validity of the equation of Henry and Rees that estimates the resting metabolic rate in male adolescents

OBJETIVO: Analisar a validade da equação de predição da taxa metabólica de repouso proposta por Henry e Rees (1991) em adolescentes do sexo masculino. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, com amostra de conveniência constituída de 52 meninos, entre dez e 17 anos, sendo mensuradas a massa corporal e a calorimetria indireta. A massa corporal foi substituída na equação de Henry e Rees para determinar a taxa metabólica de repouso predita. A calorimetria indireta foi determinada pelos valores do consumo de O2 e produção de CO2, e usada na equação de Weir (1949), considerada método padrão para o cálculo da taxa metabólica de repouso. Todas as medidas foram realizadas pela manhã, com o indivíduo em jejum de seis horas, em posição supina e em repouso muscular. Realizaram-se os seguintes procedimentos estatísticos: teste t pareado; erro constante (com diferença aceita entre as médias <5 por cento) e, para análise da concordância entre os dois métodos, o procedimento gráfico de Bland e Altman. RESULTADOS: A equação proposta por Henry e Rees não apresentou diferença significativa em relação ao método padrão, assim como o erro constante entre as médias foi <5 por cento. Porém, a análise gráfica de Bland e Altman revelou que não há concordância entre a equação e o método padrão. CONCLUSÕES: A equação de Henry e Rees deve ser utilizada com prudência no cálculo da taxa metabólica de respouso para adolescentes com características similares as do grupo estudado.

OBJETCTIVE: To evaluate the validity of the equation proposed by Henry and Rees (1991) to predict resting metabolic rate in adolescent boys. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 52 boys aged ten to 17 years on a random convenience sample. The variables measured were: body mass and indirect calorimetry. Body mass was replaced in the equation of Henry and Rees to determine the predicted resting metabolic rate. The indirect calorimetry was determined by the values of O2 consumption and CO2 productions, in order to calculate Weir's equation (1949), considered in this study as the standard method to calculate resting metabolic rate. All measurements were performed in the supine position and at rest, in the morning after a six-hour fast. Statistical analysis included paired t-test; constant error (with a tolerable difference between the means <5 percent) and Bland and Altman graphic analysis. RESULTS: The equation proposed by Henry and Rees did not show significant difference in relation to the standard method and the constant error between the means was <5 percent. However, Bland and Altman analysis did not show agreement between the studied equation and the standard method. CONCLUSIONS: Henry and Rees equation should be used with caution to calculate resting metabolic rate in adolescent boys with similar characteristics of the studied group.

OBJETIVO: Analizar la validez de la ecuación de predicción de la tasa metabólica de reposo (TMR) propuesta por Henry y Rees (1991) en adolescentes del sexo masculino. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal, con muestra de conveniencia constituida por 52 niños, entre 10 y 17 años, siendo medidas las variables a continuación: masa corporal y calorimetría indirecta (CI). La masa corporal fue sustituida en la ecuación de Henry y Rees (1991) para determinar la TMR predicha. La CI fue determinada por los valores del consumo de O2 y producción de CO2 y usada en la ecuación de Weir (1949), considerada como método estándar de la TMR. Todas las medidas fueron realizadas por la mañana, con el individuo en ayuno de 6 horas, en posición supina y en reposo muscular. Se realizaron los siguientes procedimientos estadísticos: prueba “t” pareada; error constante (EC - con diferencia aceptada entre los promedios menor que 5 por ciento) y, para análisis de la concordancia entre los dos métodos, el procedimiento gráfico de Bland y Altman. RESULTADOS: La ecuación propuesta por Henry y Rees (1991) no presentó diferencia significativa respecto al método estándar, así como el error constante entre los promedios fue inferior a 5 por ciento. Sin embargo, el análisis gráfico de Bland y Altman revela que no hay concordancia entre la ecuación y el método estándar. CONCLUSIONES: La ecuación de Henry y Rees (1991) debe ser utilizada con prudencia en el cálculo de la TMR para adolescentes semejantes al grupo estudiado.

Psoríase e obesidade: revisão de literatura e recomendações no manejo: [revisão] / Psoriasis and obesity: literature review and recommendations for management: [review]

Estudos recentes demonstram uma relação entre obesidade e inflamação crônica, confirmada através da associação de níveis elevados de fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-±), interleucina seis (IL-6) e proteína C reativa, com aumento do índice de massa corporal (IMC). O estado inflamatório, nos indivíduos obesos, poderia contribuir para o desenvolvimento ou agravamento da psoríase. Fenômenos análogos já foram descritos, em outras doenças inflamatórias crônicas, como a artrite reumatóide e doença de Chrõn. Estudos epidemiológicos mostram uma prevalência elevada de comorbidades cardiovasculares, secundárias às alterações metabólicas, associadas à psoríase e obesidade. Permanecem ainda não elucidados alguns aspectos desta associação, como: o impacto da obesidade (nas formas clínicas da dermatose, na associação com comorbidades e na resposta ao tratamento).

Recent studies have found a relationship between obesity and chronic inflammation, confirmed by the association of high levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-_), interleukin six (IL-6,) and reactive C-protein with an increase in body mass index (BMI). In obese individuals, this inflammatory condition could contribute to the development or aggravation of psoriasis. Analogous phenomena have already been described in other inflammatory chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Epidemiological studies have identified a high prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities, secondary to the metabolic alterations associated with psoriasis and obesity. A few aspects of this association remain unclear, such as the impact of obesity in the clinical forms of dermatoses, in the response to treatment, and its relationship with comorbidities.

Prevalência de infecção chagásica em doadores de sangue no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil / The prevalence of chagasic infection among blood donors in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil

A doença de Chagas é uma infecção sistêmica de evolução crônica cujo agente etiológico é o parasita Trypanosoma cruzi. O último relato encontrado sobre a soroprevalência da doença em doadores de sangue realizado na capital pernambucana, Recife, data de 1970, onde foi encontrada uma prevalência de 4,4 por cento em doadores de um hospital local. Devido à falta de informações divulgadas sobre a infecção por T. cruzi e sendo Pernambuco uma região endêmica para esta enfermidade, o presente estudo se propôs a analisar o perfil dos doadores de sangue do Hemocentro de Pernambuco (Hemope), que apresentaram reatividade para doença de Chagas, no período de 2002 a 2007. O perfil dos doadores inaptos foi avaliado de acordo com gênero, idade e procedência segundo as mesorregiões de Pernambuco. Foi encontrada uma prevalência de 0,17 por cento para doença de Chagas e 6,89 por cento das bolsas descartadas deveram-se a essa reatividade. Em relação ao gênero dos doadores, foi significativamente maior a contribuição dos homens (p<0,0001). A faixa etária de 18-30 anos apresentou menor quantidade de sorologias reativas (20,21 por cento). Foi verificado também que, na Região Metropolitana do Recife, a quantidade de reações inconclusivas foi estatisticamente maior que a quantidade de sorologias reagentes (p=0,0440). Desta forma, estudos epidemiológicos fornecem dados importantes no sentido de se avaliar diretamente o risco de transmissão de uma doença por transfusão sanguínea e permitem que também em regiões endêmicas se avalie a eficácia das medidas para o controle vetorial.

Chagas disease is a systemic infection with a chronic onset transmitted by Trypanosoma cruzi. The last study conducted in Recife, capital of Pernambuco state, was carried out during 1970. At that time a prevalence of 4.4 percent was found among blood donors of a local hospital. Due to the lack of epidemiology data on T. cruzi infection and as Pernambuco is an endemic region, the present study describes the profile of blood donors who presented reactivity for Chagas disease during the period of 2002 to 2007 in the state's blood bank (Hemope). The profile of unsuitable donors was evaluated according to gender, age and according to the meso-regions of Pernambuco. A prevalence of 0.17 percent was found for Chagas disease, whereas 6.89 percent of the rejected blood bags were due to this reactivity. As far as gender is concerned, the reactivity of men was higher than that of women (p<0.0001). Additionally, the age group between 18-30 years was less infected (20.21 percent). On analyzing the reactivity in each one of the meso-regions of the state, it was found that, in the Metropolitan Region of Recife, the number of inconclusive reaction cases was statistically higher than the number of reactive serology cases (p=0.0440). Thus, epidemiological studies provide important data to indirectly evaluate the risk of blood-borne diseases and allow indirect evaluation of the effectiveness of vectorial control measures in endemic regions.

Implementation of a parentage control system in Portuguese beef-cattle with a panel of microsatellite markers

A study was conducted to assess the feasibility of applying a panel of 10 microsatellite markers in parentage control of beef cattle in Portugal. In the first stage, DNA samples were collected from 475 randomly selected animals of the Charolais, Limousin and Preta breeds. Across breeds and genetic markers, means for average number of alleles, effective number of alleles, expected heterozygosity and polymorphic information content, were 8.20, 4.43, 0.733 and 0.70, respectively. Enlightenment from the various markers differed among breeds, but the set of 10 markers resulted in a combined probability above 0.9995 in the ability to exclude a random putative parent. The marker-set thus developed was later used for parentage control in a group of 140 calves from several breeds, where there was the suspicion of possible faulty parentage recording. Overall, 76.4 percent of the calves in this group were compatible with the recorded parents, with most incompatibilities due to misidentification of the dam. Efforts must be made to improve the quality of pedigree information, with particular emphasis on information recorded at the calf's birth.

Genetic grouping of avian infectious bronchitis virus isolated in Brazil based on RT-PCR/RFLP analysis of the S1 gene / Agrupamento genético de isolados do vírus da bronquite infecciosa das aves no Brasil com base na análise do gene S1 por RT-PCR-RFLP

Twelve Brazilian isolates and one reference vaccine strain of avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) were propagated in embryonating chicken eggs. The entire S1 glycoprotein gene of these viruses was analysed by reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RT-PCR-RFLP), using the restriction enzymes HaeIII, XcmI and BstyI. The RFLP patterns led to the classification of these isolates into five distinct genotypes: A, B, C, D and Massachusetts. Five of twelve isolates were grouped in Massachusetts genotype and the remaining seven viruses were classified into four distinct genotypes: A (2), B (2), C (2) or D (1). Such genotyping classification agreed with previous immunological analysis for most of these viruses, highlighting the occurrence of a relevant variability among the IBV strains that are circulating in Brazilian commercial poultry flocks.

Doze isolados de campo do Brasil e uma estirpe de referência vacinal do vírus da bronquite infecciosa das aves (VBI) foram propagadas em ovos embrionados SPF. O gene S1 dessas amostras foi analisado por RT-PCR seguido de RFLP, empregando-se as enzimas de restrição HaeIII, XcmI e BstyI. Observou-se a existência de cinco genotipos diferentes: M (Massachusetts), A , B, C e D. Cinco dos doze isolados de campo do VBI foram classificados no genótipo Massachusetts e os sete vírus restantes foram classificados em quatro genotipos diferentes; A (2), B (2), C (2) ou D (1). Os resultados desta genotipagem concordam com os dados obtidos na análise imunológica previamente realizada para a maior parte destes vírus, destacando a ocorrência de uma variabilidade marcante entre os isolados do VBI que estão circulando nas granjas avícolas comerciais do Brasil.

A prática dos tutores em um programa de formação pedagógica a distância: avanços e desafios / Tutors' experience in a distance educational program: progress and challenges

Este trabalho foi realizado no âmbito de um programa de formação pedagógica a distância de trabalhadores da área de enfermagem, buscando conhecer a prática dos tutores e os obstáculos e desafios enfrentados por eles na ação educativa a distância. Os obstáculos apontados pelos tutores foram: dificuldade em assimilar a concepção pedagógica construtivista nas atividades de tutoria (transpor a proposta pedagógica para a prática); dificuldade no uso das tecnologias; falta de infra-estrutura de telecomunicações de alguns municípios; dificuldade em realizar atividades necessárias ao desenvolvimento do curso em função da falta de tempo. Os tutores consideraram um desafio desempenhar a tutoria, por ser uma experiência nova para a qual não há modelo predefinido a seguir. Os resultados indicaram que a educação a distância ainda não foi culturalmente assimilada pelos tutores e que superar a distância pode ser ainda mais difícil para profissionais de enfermagem que possuem dupla jornada de trabalho.

This study was carried out among nursing professionals engaged in distance educational program, and it sought identify the tutor's experience, the obstacles and challenges they dealt with the distance program. The main obstacles mentioned by tutors included: difficulty to assimilate the constructivist pedagogical concepts in their activities (translate the course lessons to practice); difficulty in assimilating new technologies; lack of adequate telecommunications infrastructure in many towns; lack of time to develop course activities. Tutors believe that it was a challenging experience, since there was no model to follow. These results indicate that tutors haven't culturally assimilated distance education and overcoming the distance can be even more difficult for nursing professionals given that in many cases they have double shifts.

Este trabajo fue realizado en el ámbito del programa de formación pedagógica profesional a distancia para trabajadores del área de enfermería, buscando entender la práctica, los obstáculos y los desafíos de los tutores en la acción educativa a distancia. Los obstáculos principales relatados por los tutores fueron: dificultad en asimilar el modelo pedagógico constructivista en sus actividades pasar de la propuesta pedagógica a la práctica); dificultad en la asimilación de nuevas tecnologías; falta de infraestructura de telecomunicaciones de algunas ciudades; dificultad en realizar las actividades necesarias para el desarrollo del curso, por falta de tiempo. Los tutores consideraron un desafío desempeñar la tutoría ya que representa una nueva experiencia para la cual no hay modelo predefinido a ser seguido. Los resultados sugieren que la modalidad de la Educación a Distancia no fue aún culturalmente asimilada por los tutores y que superar la distancia puede ser todavía más difícil para los profesionales de Enfermería, debido a que tienen doble jornada de trabajo.

Antígenos de histocompatibilidade humanos e dermatologia: da pesquisa para a prática clínica / Human histocompatibility antigens and Dermatology: from research to clinical practice

A participação do sistema de histocompatibilidade humano (HLA: human leukocyte antigens) na patogênese das doenças auto-imunes é bem conhecida. Situado no braço curto do cromossomo 6, o sistema HLA se destaca por seu polimorfismo e por sua capacidade de conferir susceptibilidade ou proteção a diferentes enfermidades. Em Dermatologia, esse sistema desempenha papel importante na patogenia e história natural de várias doenças. A força e o tipo de associação variam com a dermatose e, algumas vezes, com o grupo étnico-racial estudado. O surgimento de métodos moleculares para tipificação dos alelos HLA e as recentes atualizações de sua nomenclatura têm contribuído para o melhor entendimento desse sistema. Infelizmente, essas informações não têm sido veiculadas de maneira adequada na literatura clínica, o que dificulta o entendimento da associação do HLA com as doenças cutâneas. Nesta revisão, são discutidos alguns aspectos do sistema HLA, métodos de detecção, nomenclatura e sua associação com vitiligo, pênfigo, psoríase, lúpus eritematoso, escabiose, leishmaniose cutânea, hanseníase, paracoccidioidomicose e dermatite atópica.