COMPOSICIÓN NUTRICIONAL DE LA CARNE DE GUANACO DE LA PATAGONIA ARGENTINA / NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF GUANACO MEAT FROM PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA

Introducción: Se considera a la carne de guanaco y sus derivados un producto cárnico consumible (Art. 261, CAA). El objetivo fue evaluar los aspectos nutricionales en cortes de uso comercial (lomo y peceto) de la carne de guanaco (Lama guanicoe guanicoe), del departamento Escalante (Chubut, Argentina) durante los años 2022 y 2023. Materiales y métodos: Se obtuvieron las muestras de 10 ejemplares machos adultos. Se determinó humedad (AOAC 950.46), proteínas (AOAC 928.08), grasas totales (AOAC 960.39), cenizas (AOAC 920.153), carbohidratos (cálculo por diferencia) y colesterol (Wiener lab®). Resultados: La composición centesimal de lomo y peceto, expresada en g/100 g en base húmeda, y el contenido de colesterol, expresado en mg/100 g en base húmeda, para el año 2022, en animales faenados en la estancia La Paulina, fue: humedad 75,1±0,13 y 5,2±0,06; proteínas 22,2±0,23 y 22,3±0,18; grasas totales 0,69±0,01 y 0,68±0,02; cenizas 0,85±0,03 y 0,88±0,04; carbohidratos 1,14 y 0,95; y colesterol 58,9±4,52 y 64,4±4,20, respectivamente. No se observaron diferencias estadísticas entre la composición de ambos cortes (p>0,05). La composición centesimal de lomo y peceto, expresada en g/100 g en base húmeda, y el contenido de colesterol, expresado en mg/100 g en base húmeda, para el año 2023 fue: humedad 76,6±0,14 y 76,7±0,17; proteínas 20,6±0,21 y 20,5±0,25; grasas totales 0,58±0,03 y 0,53±0,03; cenizas 1,07±0,04 y 1,02±0,02; carbohidratos 1,21 y 1,19; y colesterol 43,5±3,17 y 37,8±2,10, respectivamente. Se observó un mayor contenido de grasa en el corte lomo (p<0,05), mientras que no se observaron diferencias estadísticas (p>0,05) para el resto de los nutrientes. Conclusiones: El guanaco es una especie abundante y silvestre, muy atractiva para el consumo humano por sus cualidades nutritivas. Este alimento autóctono representa una opción alimentaria regional, con un potencial posicionamiento en el mercado nacional e internacional como una carne exótica. La carne de guanaco presenta un contenido de proteínas ligeramente mayor, un porcentaje de grasas totales significativamente menor y un nivel de colesterol ligeramente inferior, respecto a otras carnes rojas de consumo habitual

Introduction: Guanaco meat and its derivatives are considered a consumable meat product (Art. 261, CAA). The objective was to evaluate the nutritional aspects of commercially used cuts (loin and round) of guanaco meat (Lama guanicoe guanicoe) from the Escalante department (Chubut, Argentina) during the years 2022 and 2023. Materials and Methods: Samples were obtained from 10 adult male specimens. Moisture (AOAC 950.46), protein (AOAC 928.08), total fat (AOAC 960.39), ash (AOAC 920.153), carbohydrates (calculated by difference), and cholesterol (Wiener lab®) were determined. Results: The proximate composition of loin and round, expressed as g/100 g on a wet weight basis, and the cholesterol content, expressed as mg/100 g on a wet weight basis, for the year 2022, in animals slaughtered at La Paulina ranch, was as follows: moisture 75.1±0.13 and 75.2±0.06; protein 22.2±0.23 and 22.3±0.18; total fat 0.69±0.01 and 0.68±0.02; ash 0.85±0.03 and 0.88±0.04; carbohydrates 1.14 and 0.95; and cholesterol 58.9±4.52 and 64.4±4.20, respectively. No statistical differences were observed between the composition of both cuts (p>0.05). The proximate composition of loin and round, expressed as g/100 g on a wet weight basis, and the cholesterol content, expressed as mg/100 g on a wet weight basis, for the year 2023 was as follows: moisture 76.6±0.14 and 76.7±0.17; protein 20.6±0.21 and 20.5±0.25; total fat 0.58±0.03 and 0.53±0.03; ash 1.07±0.04 and 1.02±0.02; carbohydrates 1.21 and 1.19; and cholesterol 43.5±3.17 and 37.8±2.10, respectively. A higher fat content was observed in the loin cut (p<0.05), while no statistically significant differences were observed (p>0.05) for the rest of the nutrients. Conclusions: The guanaco is an abundant and wild species, highly attractive for human consumption due to its nutritional qualities. This native food represents a regional dietary option, with potential positioning in the national and international markets as an exotic meat. Guanaco meat has a slightly higher protein content, significantly lower total fat percentage, and a slightly lower cholesterol level compared to other commonly consumed red meats

Neutralización del virus SARS-CoV-2 (linaje B.1.1) por suero hiperinmune de llama (Lama glama) en cultivo de células Vero / Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 (lineage B.1.1) by hyperimmune llama (Lama glama) serum in Vero cell culture

Objetivo. Evaluar la respuesta serológica de anticuerpos de una llama (Lama glama) a la inmunización del virus SARS-CoV-2 (linaje B.1.1) y la capacidad neutralizante del suero de llama hiperinmune frente al virus SARS-CoV-2 (linaje B.1.1) en células Vero. Materiales y métodos. Se inmunizó una llama con el virus SARS-CoV-2 inactivado (Linaje B.1.1) y se analizaron muestras de suero para evaluar el nivel de anticuerpos mediante ELISA, así como la reactividad a antígenos de SARS-CoV-2 mediante Western Blot. Además, se evaluó la neutralización viral en cultivos celulares por la Prueba de Neutralización por Reducción de Placas (PRNT, por sus siglas en inglés). Resultados. Se observó un aumento en la serorreactividad en la llama inmunizada desde la semana 4 en adelante. Los títulos de anticuerpos fueron más elevados en el séptimo refuerzo de inmunización. Los resultados de Western Blot confirmaron los hallazgos positivos del ELISA, y los anticuerpos del suero inmune reconocieron varias proteínas virales. El ensayo de neutralización (PRNT) mostró una neutralización viral visible, concordante con los resultados de ELISA y Western Blot. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos sugieren que el suero hiperinmune de llama podría constituir una fuente de anticuerpos terapéuticos contra las infecciones por el virus SARS-CoV-2 (linaje B.1.1) y que deberá ser evaluado en estudios posteriores.

Objective. To evaluate the serological antibody response of a llama (Lama glama) to SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.1 lineage) immunization and the neutralizing capacity of hyperimmune llama serum against SARS-CoV-2 virus (B.1.1 lineage) in Vero cells. Materials and methods. A llama was immunized with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.1 lineage). Serum samples were analyzed to evaluate the level of antibodies by ELISA, as well as reactivity to SARS-CoV-2 antigens by Western Blot. In addition, viral neutralization in cell cultures was assessed by the Plate Reduction Neutralization Test (PRNT). Results . Seroreactivity increased in the immunized llama from week 4 onwards. Antibody titers were the highest after the seventh immunization booster. Western blot results confirmed the positive ELISA findings, and immune serum antibodies recognized several viral proteins. The neutralization assay (PRNT) showed visible viral neutralization, which was in accordance with the ELISA and Western Blot results. Conclusions. The findings suggest that hyperimmune llama serum could constitute a source of therapeutic antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 infections (lineage B.1.1), and should be studied in further research.

Índices de internações, de mortalidade e de custos associados à doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) no Distrito Federal após mudança do Protocolo Estadual de 2018 ­ Dados do mundo real / Hospitalization, mortality rates and costs associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Distrito Federal, Brazil, before and after the change in 2018 state COPD protocol version ­ Real-world data

Objetivo: Avaliar os índices de hospitalização, mortalidade e custos associados à doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) após mudança do Protocolo de Atenção à Saúde da Secretaria do Distrito Federal (SES-DF) em 2018 por um medicamento da mesma classe terapêutica, porém em dispositivo inalatório diferente. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional, transversal, em uma coorte de pacientes adultos internados em dois períodos específicos: gosto/2017 a julho/2018 (MAT 1 ­ vigência do Protocolo antigo) e agosto/2018 a julho/2019 (MAT 2 ­ vigência do novo Protocolo). Foram avaliados pacientes internados com diagnóstico principal de DPOC de acordo com a Classificação Estatística Internacional de Doenças e Problemas Relacionados com a Saúde Versão 10 (CID-10) estabelecida pelo protocolo de atenção à saúde e registrada no Datasus. Os desfechos avaliados foram número de internações, mortalidade e custos totais associados à internação por DPOC. Resultados: Após análise dos dados relacionados à DPOC, a comparação entre MAT 1 (agosto/2017 a julho/2018) e MAT 2 (agosto/2018 a julho/2019) resultou no aumento na ocorrência de importantes desfechos: +131,3% no número de internações com passagens em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) (n = 16 no MAT 1 vs. n = 37 no MAT 2, p < 0,01), +101,0% na frequência de internações com passagem em UTI sobre o total de internações (2,4% no MAT 1 vs. 4,8% no MAT 2, p = 0,01), +566,7% nos óbitos de pacientes internados em UTI (n = 3 no MAT 1 vs. n = 20 no MAT 2, p < 0,01) e +52,9% nos custos totais de internação (R$ 828.761 no MAT 1 vs. R$ 1.267.318 no MAT 2, p = 0,03). Conclusão: Durante os períodos analisados, houve aumento no uso de UTI, na mortalidade em UTI e nos custos totais relacionados à DPOC. A atualização do protocolo alterou tanto o dispositivo inalatório (névoa suave para pó seco) quanto a molécula (tiotrópio para glicopirrônio) e poderia ser um dos fatores responsáveis por esses desfechos, no entanto as limitações desta análise observacional não podem determinar um impacto causal da mudança do protocolo, pois outras variáveis também podem ter levado às diferenças descritas.

Objective: Evaluate the rates of hospitalization, mortality and costs associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before and after the change in COPD Treatment Protocol of State Health Secretariat of Distrito Federal (SES-DF). Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in a cohort of hospitalized adult patients in two specific periods: August/2017 to July/2018 (MAT 1 ­ old version of Protocol in place) and August/2018 to July/2019 (MAT 2 - after the new Protocol version). Hospitalized patients with COPD as primary diagnosis according to International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems Version 10 (ICD-10) established by COPD Treatment Protocol and registered in DATASUS database were evaluated. The outcomes assessed were the number of hospitalizations, mortality and total costs ssociated with COPD hospitalizations. Results: After analyzing the data related to COPD, the comparison between MAT 1 (August/2017 to July/2018) and MAT 2 (August/2018 to July/2019) periods resulted in an increase in the occurrence of relevant outcomes: +131.3% in the number of hospitalizations with intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (n = 16 in MAT 1 vs. n = 37 in MAT 2, p < 0.01), +101.0% in the frequency of hospitalizations with ICU admissions over total number of hospitalizations (2.4% in MAT 1 vs. 4.8% in MAT 2, p = 0.01), +566.7% in deaths of patients admitted in ICU (n = 3 in MAT 1 vs. n = 20 in MAT 2, p < 0.01), +52.9% in total costs associated with COPD hospitalizations (R$ 828,761 in MAT 1 vs. R$ 1,267,318 in MAT 2, p = 0.03). Conclusion: During the analyzed periods, an increase in ICU usage, mortality in ICU and total costs related to COPD was observed. The update in the protocol switched the inhaler device (from soft mist to dry powder) and also the molecule (tiotropium to glycopyrronium) and could be potentially one of the factors responsible for these endpoints, however the limitations of this observational analysis cannot determine a causal impact of the protocol change as other variables could also have led to the differences described.

Neutralización de la actividad letal del veneno de serpiente Bothrops atrox por suero hiperinmune de llama (Lama glama) / Neutralization of the lethal activity from Bothrops atrox venom by hyperimune llama serum (Lama glama)

RESUMEN Objetivos: Evaluar la capacidad del suero hiperinmune de llama (Lama glama) para neutralizar la letalidad del veneno de la serpiente Bothrops atrox en ratones de laboratorio. Materiales y métodos: Se calculó la dosis letal media (DL50) de un pool de venenos de serpientes de Bothrops atrox de Perú, y se midieron los títulos de anticuerpos por ensayo ELISA; así como la potencia de neutralización del suero inmune por el cálculo de la dosis efectiva media (DE50) durante el periodo de inmunización. Resultados: La DL50 del veneno fue de 3,96 µg/g, similar a otros trabajos realizados en Bothrops atrox en Perú. Los títulos de anticuerpos contra el veneno se incrementan rápidamente en la llama mostrando una rápida respuesta inmune; sin embargo, la capacidad de neutralización se incrementa más lentamente y requiere de varias dosis y refuerzos de las inmunizaciones alcanzado una DE50 de 3,30 µL/g ratón y una potencia de neutralización 3,6 mg/mL después de 15 inmunizaciones. Conclusiones: El suero hiperinmune de llama es capaz de neutralizar la letalidad del veneno de la serpiente Bothrops atrox de Perú en ratones de laboratorio.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To evaluate the capacity of the hyperimmune llama serum (Lama glama) to neutralize the lethal activity of Bothrops atrox venom in laboratory mice. Materials and methods: Mean lethal dose (LD50) was calculated from a Bothrops atrox venom sample pool from Peru. The antibody titers were measured by ELISA assay; and the immune serum neutralization potency was measured by calculating the mean effective dose (ED50) during the immunization period. Results: The venom's LD50 was 3.96 μg/g; similar to what was found in other studies about Bothrops atrox carried out in Peru. The titers of antibodies against the venom increased rapidly in the llama, demonstrating a fast immune response; however, the neutralization capacity increased slowly and required several doses and immunization reinforcements, obtaining a ED50 of 3.30 μL/g mouse and a neutralization potency of 3.6 mg/mL after 15 immunizations. Conclusions: The hyperimmune llama serum is able to neutralize the lethality of the Bothrops atrox venom from Peru in laboratory mice.

Características fisicoquímicas, mecánicas y sensoriales de salchichas secas tipo cabanossi elaboradas con carne de llama (Lama glama) y cerdo (Sus scrofa domestica) / Physicochemical, mechanical and sensory characteristics of cabanossi-type dry sausages made with llama (Lama glama) and pork (Sus scrofa domestica) meat

RESUMEN Se estableció la caracterización de salchichas secas tipo cabanossi con carne de llama, cerdo y muestras comerciales mediante un análisis proximal (contenidos de grasa: 18,6 a 29,6% y proteína: 19,4 a 36,2%), color (C*: 15,8 a 33,7), actividad de agua (0,770 a 0,960), pH (5,2 a 6,5) y propiedades mecánicas como dureza (47,8 a 124 N) y masticabilidad (9,4 a 33,2 N). Se obtuvieron 19 descriptores a partir de la opinión de 83 consumidores; luego, se empleó el método CATA (Check-all-that-apply) para describir las características sensoriales del cabanossi empleando 55 consumidores. Se evidenció que el cabanossi con carne de llama presentó el menor contenido de grasa total y ácidos grasos saturados, y mayor contenido de ácidos grasos poliinsaturados en comparación a las otras muestras. Los descriptores más utilizados fueron: olor característico/embutido, sabor a especias/condimentos, picante y sensación residual picante. Los consumidores indicaron como atributos relevantes para la aceptabilidad al color rojo claro, blando/suave, masticable y picante. La utilización de carne de llama constituye una alternativa en el desarrollo de nuevos productos cárnicos basados sobre las características presentadas.

ABSTRACT The chemical and physical characterization of cabanossi-type dry sausages made with lama meat, pork and commercial samples were performed. Remarkable differences were found in terms of fat (18.6 to 29.6%), color (15.8 to 33.7), water activity (0.770 to 0.960), pH (5.6 to 6.5), hardness (47.8 to 124 N) and chewiness (9.4 to 33.2 N). Nineteen descriptive terms based on the opinions of 83 consumers were used. Then, 55 consumers used the CATA (Check-all-that-apply) method to describe the sensory traits of cabanossi . Sausage from lama meat had the lowest total fat and saturated fatty acid content, and the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid content in comparison to the other samples. The most utilized sensory terms were: characteristic odor/smell of sausage, spicy flavor and spicy after taste. For sensory acceptability, consumers selected light red color, soft/tender, chewable and spicy as the most relevant traits. The application of lama meat represents an alternative to new meat products developed based on the characteristics studied.

Interações ambientais e resistência física de um depósito de resíduos finos da indústria de rochas ornamentais / Environmental interactions and physical resistance of a fine waste deposit from dimension stone industry

RESUMO Embora vários trabalhos proponham aplicações para os resíduos finos gerados no beneficiamento de rochas ornamentais, ainda não há evidências das vantagens financeiras para tal aproveitamento. Assim, a descrição dos depósitos existentes, muitos deles construídos sem triagem ou qualquer medida de proteção ambiental, torna-se imprescindível para seu melhor gerenciamento. Este trabalho estudou a caracterização física, química e mineralógica, além da resistência mecânica de um depósito de resíduos tradicionais e de seu substrato geológico. Cerca de 75% das partículas que compõem os resíduos são menores do que 0,0625 mm e o teor de umidade varia entre 26 e 60%. Os valores de pH variam entre 8,2 e 10,5. Os elementos químicos predominantes são Si, Al, Fe e, em menor proporção, Ca, Na e K. Esses elementos compõem quartzo, plagioclásio, microclina, calcita, muscovita, biotita e zircão. Ao comparar as características dos resíduos com as do substrato geológico, não foram encontrados indícios de migração das substâncias químicas analisadas. Os Stantard Penetration Tests mostram que as camadas não apresentam resistência suficiente para receber fundações rasas. É provável que as concentrações de Fe em alguns níveis contribuam com o aumento da resistência mecânica em áreas localizadas do depósito.

ABSTRACT Although several works propose applications for the fine wastes generated by the dimension stones processing, the financial advantages of recovering these materials are not yet evident. Then, the description of the deposits, much of them constructed without screening or any environmental protection measure, becomes indispensable for their best management. This work studies the physical, chemical and mineralogical characterization, as well as the mechanical resistance of a traditional waste deposit and its geological substrate. Around 76% of the particles that compound the wastes are smaller than 0,0625 mm and their humidity vary between 26 and 60%. The pH-values are between 8.2 and 10.5. The major chemical elements are Si, Al, Fe, and, at less proportions, Ca, Na, and K. These elements compound quartz, plagioclase, microcline, calcite, muscovite, biotite, and zircon. When comparing the characteristics of the wastes with the geological substrate, indicatives of the analyzed substances' migration was not found. The Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) show that the layer´s strength is not good enough to receive shallow foundations. It is probable that Fe concentrations at some levels contribute for incrementing the deposit´s mechanical resistance.

Leave against medical advice from SNCU of a teaching hospital in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India

Background: Patients who leave against medical advice (LAMA) is a universal problem. Neonates being unable to decide for their own, are dependent on parents for all decisions for their treatment. LAMA is a sensitive issue in neonatology practice with ethical and medico legal ramifications. This study was done to evaluate the factors associated with the decision of LAMA by care givers in our special newborn care unit (SNCU).Methods: This is a retrospective hospital based observational study and was conducted in SNCU of HNB Base Teaching Hospital, Srinagar, Garhwal. Data pertaining to LAMA between 1st August 2017 and 31st July 2018 was retrieved. Information obtained included place of birth, gestational age, weight, diagnoses, duration of hospital stay and reasons for LAMA. Data were entered into a Microsoft Excel Spread Sheet and analyzed using software. Graph Pad Prism v 7.04. Chi-Square test was used to test for significant difference among various groups.Results: Out of 689 neonates admitted in SNCU during the study period, 167 (24.24%) took LAMA. Male to female ratio of 1:1.1. 102 (61%) were inborn and 65 (39%) were out born. Term babies constituted 62.87%. 78.44% neonates were discharged within 7 days of admission. 58 (34.73%) neonates had sepsis and 30 (17.96%) had birth asphyxia. The commonest reason in 25.15% for taking LAMA was to take the neonate to better equipped facility followed by false perception that the baby is well enough to be discharged.Conclusions: Multiple factors contribute for getting a neonate discharged against medical advice. Improvement of infrastructure, training of health care staff for proper counselling, sensitivity and empathy towards neonate and the care givers can decrease the rate of LAMA.

Induction of specific CD8+ T cells against hepatocellular carcinoma-associated neoantigens / 中华肿瘤杂志

Objective@#To predict the tumor neoantigen peptides in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and examine their specific immune effects against the tumor cells without injury to normal cells.@*Methods@#The data of whole-genome sequencing and exome sequencing of HCC tumor and matched non-tumor liver tissues were analyzed to confirm the HCC-associated somatic mutations. Based on the HLA phenotype of the patients, we used NetMHC software to predict the neoantigen epitopes with high binding affinity to their MHC-I molecules. The predicted peptides with mutation sites included were synthesized. GPL10687 platform was applied to examine the gene expression difference between tumor and normal tissues of the selected genes in GSE25097, one of the GEO databases. The quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to confirm the expressions in tumors and normal tissues of the selected genes. By using the predicted peptides, we induced the generation of antigen-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and examined their specific effects against tumor cells.@*Results@#The mutation frequency of TP53 (tumor protein p53) was 40%, and LAMA3 (Laminin Subunit Alpha 3) was 8% in the analyzed HCC tissues. In GSE25097 database, TP53 and LAMA3 mRNA levels in tumors were 1.57±0.02 and 1.37±0.10, which were significantly increased than those in matched no-tumor tissue (0.54±0.01 and 0.36±0.01, P<0.05). The differences of expression levels of TP53 and LAMA3 in tumor and no-tumor tissues were validated by using qRT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry in 10 HCC tissues. The mRNA levels of TP53 and LAMA3 in tumors were 0.24±0.03 and 0.13±0.06, which were significantly elevated than those in matched no-tumor tissue (0.11±0.01 and 0.01±0.01, P<0.05). Among the Chinese population, HLA-A2 and HLA-A11 and HLA-A24 accounted for 70%, representing the major MHC-I molecules. The CTLs induced by predicted peptides showed cytotoxicity to the targets pulsed with mutated peptide, with no effect on the target pulsed with normal peptide and on normal cells.@*Conclusions@#TP53 and LAMA3 existed relative higher mutation frequency in HCC, and expressed higher in tumor tissues. The induced CTLs by predicted peptides derived from mutation-associated protein could specific kill the target cells without injury to normal cells.

Ensaio em colunas de solo para estudo da influência dos resíduos finos de rochas ornamentais na qualidade da água / Soil column test to study the influence of dimension stone fine wastes on water quality

RESUMO A geração de resíduos finos provenientes do processo de beneficiamento de rochas ornamentais cresce na mesma proporção da produção de chapas para a construção civil. A adoção de medidas preventivas, remediadoras e punitivas está atrelada ao conhecimento do verdadeiro potencial que esses materiais têm para causar impactos negativos ao ambiente. O objetivo deste trabalho foi simular, em laboratório, possíveis alterações na qualidade da água de recarga de aquíferos provocadas pela disposição inadequada desses resíduos. Foram realizados testes de percolação de água em colunas de solo recoberto por resíduos com diferentes taxas de umidade: resíduos sem tratamento, saídos diretamente do tear (TE); resíduos que passaram por filtro prensa (FP) para redução de umidade e resíduos secos em leito de secagem (LS). A água de percolação foi analisada para avaliar alterações em comparação com um branco ou testemunha. Não foram detectadas alterações significativas no pH da água percolada em nenhum dos casos estudados. Porém, no tratamento TE houve alterações em vários parâmetros de qualidade. A água percolada através do resíduo FP se assemelhou àquela do TE em alguns parâmetros e à do LS em outros. ­Conclui-se que os resíduos saídos diretamente da boca do tear possuem alto potencial de degradação da qualidade da água, mas a redução de umidade é eficaz para reduzir os riscos ambientais. O uso de LS pode ser um método tão eficaz quanto o FP, se conduzido de forma adequada e respeitando as normas legais.

ABSTRACT The generation of fine wastes from cutting of ornamental stones grows at the same rate of plate production for civil construction. The adoption of safe, remediating and punitive measures are linked to the knowledge of the actual potentiality that these materials have for causing negative impacts to the environment. The aim of this work was to simulate, in laboratory, possible alterations in the recharging groundwater quality provoked by the improper disposal of these wastes. We conducted tests of percolating water through soil columns covered by wastes with different humidity rates: wastes without treatment, outgoing directly from the looms (TE); wastes that passed by filter press for humidity reducing (FP) and wastes dried in a drying pond (LS). Percolated water was analyzed to evaluate alterations of its quality in relation to a blank (B) or control. Significant changes did not occur in pH-values of percolated water in any of the cases studied. However, many water quality parameters were changed during TE treatment. The water percolated through FP residues was similar to that of the looms in relation to some parameters and with the LS wastes, in others. We concluded that the wastes that just left the loom have high potential for changing water quality, but the reduction of waste´s humidity is efficient for minimizing environmental risks. The use of drying bed could be as efficient as the filter press, if conducted in a proper form and according to legal regulations.

Modelo matemático simplificado para determinar a capacidade erosiva de um escoamento lamoso em regime laminar pulsante / A simplified mathematical model to estimate the erosive capacity of a pulsating laminar muddy flow

RESUMO Neste artigo foi proposto um modelo matemático simplificado para inferir sobre a capacidade erosiva de um escoamento lamoso em regime laminar com presença de roll waves (efeito pulsante) na superfície livre. Na perspectiva de aplicação de resultados no contexto de desastres naturais (corridas de lama), foi determinada a evolução da velocidade média e da tensão de cisalhamento no fundo do canal. O modelo proposto é baseado nas equações de águas rasas e na reologia de Herschel-Bulkley, como representativa das lamas. A validação e a aplicação do modelo foram feitas a partir de dados experimentais de roll waves geradas em canal no laboratório confrontados com resultados de simulações numéricas. Os resultados obtidos mostram um incremento na capacidade erosiva, na presença de roll waves, da ordem de 12% em relação ao escoamento base, valor este em concordância com os 10% apontados por Ng e Mei (1994) para uma reologia mais simplificada.

ABSTRACT In this paper, we proposed and validated a simplified mathematical model to estimate the erosive capacity of a muddy laminar flow with roll waves (pulsating effect) on the free surface. From the perspective of applying results in the context of natural disasters (mudflows), the evolution of mean velocity and bottom shear stress in the channel were determined. The proposed model is based on shallow water equations and Herschel-Bulkley rheology as representative of the muds. The model was validated by comparison with results of numerical simulations and experimental data of roll waves generated in a channel. In-depth comparative analyses were made for inferring the erosive capacity of this sort of flow. The obtained results show an increase of erosive capacity (12%) due to the presence of roll waves in relation to the uniform flow's. Similar values (10%) were found by Ng and Mei (1994) for a more simplified rheology model.

Adsorção de Cd 2+, Ni 2+ e Zn 2+ em soluções aquosas usando anidrita e lama vermelha / Adsorption of Cd2+, Ni2+ and Zn2+ in aqueous solutions using anhydrite and red mud

RESUMO Vários minerais e resíduos industriais têm sido estudados para uso como adsorvente, entre eles a lama vermelha e a anidrita. A lama vermelha é um resíduo insolúvel gerado em grande quantidade durante o processamento da bauxita. A anidrita é um sulfato de cálcio (CaSO4) cristalizado sob a forma rômbica e usada como matéria-prima na indústria. Nesta investigação, a capacidade de adsorção de Cd2+, Ni2+ e Zn2+ pela anidrita e pela lama vermelha foi avaliada usando isotermas de adsorção de Langmuir e Freundlich. Os materiais empregados apresentaram adsorção ≥75±1% para todos os metais em soluções aquosas com concentração de 0,5 mmol.25 mL-1. As isotermas baseadas no modelo de Langmuir foram as mais apropriadas para descrever o fenômeno de remoção de Cd2+, Ni2+ e Zn2+ para a anidrita e a lama vermelha, com valores de capacidade máxima de adsorção de 0,47 e 0,51 mmol.g-1 para o Cd2+, 1,18 e 1,56 mmol.g-1 para o Ni2+ e 0,84 e 1,47 mmol.g-1 para o Zn2+, respectivamente. Esses valores foram superiores a outros valores exibidos por materiais empregados como adsorventes descritos em estudos prévios.

ABSTRACT Various minerals and industrial waste have been studied for use as an adsorbent, in particular the anhydrite and the red mud. The red mud is an insoluble residue that is generated in large quantities during the processing of bauxite. The anhydrite is a calcium sulfate (CaSO4), crystallized as a rhombic way, and used as raw material in the industry. In this study, the Cd2+, Ni2+ and Zn2+adsorption capacity by anhydrite and by red mud was evaluated using adsorption isotherms obtained by the Langmuir and Freundlich models. The materials used showed adsorption ≥75±1% for all metals in aqueous solutions with a concentration of 0.5 mmol.25 mL-1. The Langmuir isotherm was more appropriate to describe the phenomenon of Cd2+, Ni2+ and Zn2+ removal, with highest adsorption capacity at 0.47 and 0.51 mmol.g-1 for Cd2+, 1.18 and 1.56 mmol.g-1 for Ni2+, and 0.84 and 1.47 mmol.g-1 for Zn2+, respectively. These values were higher than those ones obtained for other materials described in previous studies.

Expression of Laminin gene family in porcine pluripotent stem cells / 生物工程学报

Laminin (LN) proteins are important components of extracellular matrix. These proteins regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and tissue repair. The LN family has 12 genes that encode 5 α, 4 β, and 3 γ proteins. LamininA5 (LAMA5) as an important gene can support pluripotent cell growth and have been widely studied. However, porcine LAMA5 is absent in all tested porcine genomic databases so far. In this study, we confirmed for the first time the existence of porcine LAMA5 through bioinformatics analysis, and verified this result by cDNA cloning and sequencing. To reveal the expression pattern of Laminin gene family, we detected the expression of Laminin genes in porcine tissues, somatic cells, and porcine induced pluripotent stem cells (piPSCs). The results showed that an alternative splicing variant of Laminin B1 (LAMB1-a) was found exclusively in all tested piPSCs. The expression of this alternative splicing variant is positively correlated with the pluripotent state of piPSCs. The above findings provide evidences and foundations for the father use of LN as extracellular matrix to facilitate the derivation and culture of porcine pluripotent stem cells.

Congenital muscular dystrophy due to laminin α2 (merosin) deficiency (MDC1A) in an ethnic Malay girl

We report the first known ethnic Malay patient with laminin alpha-2 (merosin) deficiency (MDC1A), a subtype of congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD)as a result of novel LAMA2 gene mutations. The 21-month-old female presented with hypotonia at birth and gross motor delay of her distal lower limbs. Physical examination showed generalised hypotonia, hyporeflexia and myopathic facies but good cognitive functions. Serum creatine kinase was elevated and white matter changes were detected in the brain MRI. Muscle biopsy showed dystrophic changes with complete laminin α2 deficiency by immunohistochemistry. Mutation analysis of LAMA2 showed compound heterozygote at exon 21, c.2888delG(p.Gly963Alafs*111) and exon 34, c.4886dupC(p.Pro1629Profs*40) leading to premature stop codon for each of the frameshift mutations. Patient review at seven years of age showed satisfactory cognitive functions despite having contractures and weakness. Genetic testing of LAMA2 related muscular dystrophy facilitated the earlier diagnosis of MDC1A and genetic counselling for this family. MDC1A

Hidden impacts of the Samarco mining waste dam collapse to Brazilian marine fauna - an example from the staurozoans (Cnidaria) / Impactos ocultos do colapso da barragem de resíduos da mineradora Samarco para a fauna marinha brasileira - um exemplo em estaurozoários (Cnidaria)

The collapse of the Fundão tailings dam at Mariana (State of Minas Gerais, Brazil) started a huge human tragedy and likely the most serious environmental disaster in recent Brazilian history. The dam had contained waste from processing iron ore from mines owned by Samarco, a joint venture company of the Brazilian Vale S.A. and the Anglo-Australian BHP Billiton Ltd. Following ineffective attempts to contain the disaster, after 16 days the mud flood reached the sea, where its impact is expected to affect thousands of marine fauna and flora species. Here, we provide an example of one of these species, the cnidarian Kishinouyea corbini Larson 1980 (Staurozoa), emblematic because it is extremely rare, poorly studied, and its known distribution overlaps the threatened area on the Brazilian coast. Based on this case, we discuss the need for efforts to monitor and minimize the possible impacts of this socio-environmental crime, as well as to identify and punish all responsible players in this tragedy, including negligent licensing and supervisory state agencies, in order to prevent future similar tragedies.

O colapso da barragem de rejeitos de Fundão, em Mariana (Minas Gerais, Brasil) iniciou uma enorme tragédia humana e, provavelmente, o mais grave desastre ambiental da história recente do Brasil. A barragem continha rejeitos do processamento de minério de ferro de minas de propriedade da Samarco, uma empresa controlada pela brasileira Vale S.A. e pela anglo-australiana BHP Billiton Ltda. Apesar de tentativas ineficazes para conter o desastre, após 16 dias a lama atingiu o mar, onde provavelmente afetará milhares de espécies da fauna e flora marinhas. Este ponto de vista fornece um exemplo de uma dessas espécies, o cnidário Kishinouyea corbini Larson 1980 (Staurozoa), emblemática pois é extremamente rara, insuficientemente estudada e sua distribuição conhecida para a costa brasileira sobrepõe a área ameaçada pelo desastre. Com base neste caso, discutimos a necessidade de esforços para monitorar e minimizar os possíveis impactos desse crime socioambiental, bem como para identificar e punir todos os responsáveis por esta tragédia, incluindo agências estatais de fiscalização e licenciamento negligentes, a fim de evitar futuras tragédias semelhantes.

An Acute Therapeutic Evaluation of Three Regimens of Tiotropium and Formoterol in COPD Patients: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study.

Aims: To evaluate therapeutic rationality of combining long-acting β2-agonists (formoterol) with duration of action of 12 hours and anticholinergics (tiotropium) with 24 hours as fixed dose inhaled combination (FDC) still widely prescribed in developing countries in COPD patients. Study Design: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design study. The three regimens that were used; tiotropium 18 μg once a day in the morning along with the formoterol matched placebo in the evening, the FDC of tiotropium 18 μg plus formoterol 12 μg once a day in the morning and formoterol matched placebo in the evening and the same FDC of the two drugs once a day in the morning and once a day formoterol 12 μg in the evening in patients of COPD without any co-morbidity. Place and Duration of Study: Tertiary care pulmonary medicine university teaching government hospital of Delhi, India; 1 year. Methodology: Sixty COPD patients (Male, Avg. age 56±11 years) divided into 3 groups of 20 each without any comorbidity were admitted in the hospital for 24 hours. The spirometry, perception of dyspnea on Borg's scale and vitals such as blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate (PR) were recorded at the following interval 30 minutes, 2 hours, 12 hours after the morning dose and 30 minutes and 12 hours after the evening dose. Results: Addition of formoterol in the evening along with the FDC in the morning enhanced the peak effects in percentage predicted FEV1 (82.55+/-12.639), FEV1/FVC (0.592±0.097) that remained till the next dose (24 hours) which was statistically (P=.05) superior to the tiotropium alone group (75.55+/-17.981) as well as FDC alone group (74.55+/-12.655). Conclusion: There is no advantage of FDC once a day over tiotropium alone. However addition of evening dose of formoterol has shown therapeutic superiority over once a day FDC of the two in COPD.

A case of nasal myiasis due to Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae) in a llama (Lama glama) / Um caso de miíase nasal devido a Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae) em lhama (Lama glama)

Infection by the larval form of Oestrus ovis (sheep bot fly) is common in many areas of Peru. This is an obligate parasite of sheep and goats, and it is the cause of oestrosis, or nasal myiasis, which can lead to severe clinical manifestations in livestock. A case of myiasis caused by O. ovis in a llama (Lama glama) in Cuzco, Peru, is reported here. This llama presented with respiratory distress and died due to bilateral hemorrhagic pneumonia. During the necropsy, six intact dipterous larvae were recovered from the nasal fossae and cranial sinuses being identified as O. ovis. This is the first report of nasal myiasis in llamas due to O. ovis in Peru.

Infecção pela forma larval de Oestrus ovis (bicho da cabeça) é comum em muitas regiões do Peru. Este é um parasito obrigatório de ovinos e caprinos, e é a causa de oestrose ou miíase nasal, que pode conduzir à manifestações clínicas graves nos animais. Relatou-se um caso de miíase causada por O. ovis numa lhama (Lama glama) em Cuzco, Peru. A lhama apresentou insuficiência respiratória e morreu de pneumonia bilateral hemorrágica. Durante a necropsia, seis larvas intactas do díptero foram recuperadas das fossas nasais e dos seios cranianos e identificadas como O. ovis. Este é o primeiro relato de miíase nasal em lhamas por O. ovis no Peru.

Inervación de las regiones escapular, braquial y antebraquial de la llama (Lama glama) / Innervation of the scapular, brachial and antebrachial of the llama (Lama glama)

La llama (Lama glama) es un mamífero cuya producción ha crecido exponencialmente en las últimas décadas, sobre todo en la región noroeste y patagónica de Argentina, Chile, Bolivia y Perú. Asociada a este crecimiento, la clínica médica veterinaria ha tenido que enfrentarse con el desafío de nuevos diagnósticos neuroanatómicos, así como también con maniobras semiológicas y quirúrgicas específicas para esta especie. El objetivo del presente trabajo es realizar una detallada descripción de la inervación de las regiones de la espalda, el brazo y el antebrazo, aportando conocimientos que sean de utilidad para que el veterinario clínico pueda interpretar alteraciones funcionales o para la realización de tratamientos quirúrgicos, terapéuticos y/o diagnósticos. Se incluye además la descripción de las relaciones musculares y vasculares de los nervios.

The llama (Lama Glama) is a mammal whose production has grown exponentially in the last decades, especially in the Northwest and Patagonian region of Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and Peru. Associated with this growth, veterinary medical clinic has had to deal with the challenge of new neuroanatomical diagnostic, as well as surgical and semiological maneuvers specific to this species. This work aims to make a detailed description of the innervation of the regions back, arm, and forearm, providing knowledge that is useful to the clinical veterinarian to interpret functional alterations or for the performance of surgical, therapeutic, treatment and/or diagnosis. It also includes the description of the muscular and vascular relationships of nerves.

Eficacia de los fangos medicinales en el tratamiento de la osteoartrosis de rodilla / Effectiveness of medicinal muds in the knee osteoarthritis treatment

Se realizó un pre-experimento para comparar la eficacia de los tratamientos basados en la aplicación del fango sulfurado sanadin y fármacos a 110 pacientes con edades comprendidas entre 30 y 60 años que padecían de artrosis de rodilla al evaluar inicialmente los resultados en un período de seis meses y se realizó un corte evaluativo entre los días cinco y diez del tratamiento, por parte de especialistas de ortopedia del policlínico Sur de Morón y por los autores de la investigación a través de la aplicación de test muscular y articular. Se pudo comprobar que el tratamiento de fangoterapia resultó ser más eficaz que el medicamentoso pues logró la recuperación en menor tiempo, presentó menos reacciones adversas y como ventajas la utilización de fuentes naturales que ofrecen menos costo de tratamiento. El alivio de los síntomas en general se logró entre la 1ra y 6ta sesión del tratamiento, mientras que la desaparición se logró entre la sexta y novena sesión del tratamiento.

Uso de los peloides de Santa Lucía en el melasma / Use of the peloides of “Santa Lucía” in the melasma

El melasma es un problema estético y una causa frecuente de consulta dermatológica, su tratamiento siempre ha sido complicado, desalentador y problemático. Se realizó un estudio pre-experimental fase II para determinar la utilidad de los peloides en el tratamiento del melasma en la provincia Ciego de Ávila, se seleccionaron a todos los pacientes que asistieron a la consulta de dermatología en la policlínica de especialidades, con el diagnóstico confirmado de melasma y consintieron en el tratamiento con peloides. La mayoría de los atendidos estaban entre los 30 y 39 años de edad y predominó el sexo femenino. Los pacientes con melasma epidérmico respondieron mejor al tratamiento y se alcanzaron los mejores resultados a los 3 meses de iniciado el mismo. Los fototipos de piel II y III evolucionaron mejor y en el 82 por ciento de los pacientes no se reportaron reacciones adversas, se concluye que el uso de peloides en el melasma resultó beneficioso.

The melasma is an aesthetic problem and a frequent cause of dermatological consult, its treatment always has been complicated, discouraging and problematic. It was realized a pre-experimental study phase II to determine the utility of the peloids in the treatment of the melasma in Ciego de Avila province, it were selected all the patients that assisted to the dermatological consult in the Polyclinic of Specialties, with the diagnostic confirmed of melasma and consented in the treatment with peloids. The majority of the attended was between the 30 and 39 years of age and predominated the feminine sex. The patients with epidermic melasma answered better to the treatment and reached the best results to the 3 months of initiated the same. The skin type II and III evolved better and in 82 percent of the patients did not report adverse reactions. The authors conclude that the use of peloides in the melasma resulted beneficial.