Transmisión directa del SARS-CoV-2 entre contactos en Santiago de Cuba / Direct Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Among Contacts in Santiago de Cuba

Introducción: El virus SARS-CoV-2 se propaga, principalmente, entre personas que están en estrecho contacto, de ahí la importancia de la detección de contactos y conocer las formas de transmisión entre estos. Objetivo: Identificar las principales formas de transmisión directa entre contactos de casos importados y autóctonos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal sobre dos poblaciones: los casos confirmados de COVID-19 en la provincia Santiago de Cuba en el último trimestre de 2020 y los contactos directos declarados por dichos casos. En busca de la mejor representatividad se empleó un diseño de muestreo estratificado en dos etapas. Para la recolección del dato primario se empleó la entrevista; para resumir la información, el número y el porcentaje; para detectar posibles diferencias, las pruebas de hipótesis de una proporción y de comparación de proporciones mediante el Minitab v. 19 y para elaborar los gráficos el Microsoft Excel 2016. Resultados: El promedio de contactos fue mayor entre los casos autóctonos, con predominio de compañeros de trabajo, vecinos e hijos. La relación contacto-caso en los importados fue amigo(a), chofer y suegro(a), mientras que en los autóctonos fue hijo(a). Hubo menor empleo de acciones preventivas y predominio de contactos extradomiciliarios en los importados. Los contactos de los importados fueron hospitalizados con mayor frecuencia y presentaron mayor proporción de asintomáticos que los de los autóctonos, pero no hubo diferencias significativas. Conclusiones: No se obtuvo un patrón diferenciado de transmisión, excepto que la transmisión característica de los autóctonos fue entre padre e hijo y en los importados fue entre amigos(AU)

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 spreads, mainly, through close contact among people, hence the importance of detecting contacts of confirmed cases and identifying the mode of transmission between them. Objective: To identify the main modes of direct transmission among contacts of imported and autochthonous cases. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in two populations: the confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Santiago de Cuba in the last quarter of 2020, and their declared direct contacts. In the search of the best representativeness, a two-stage stratified sampling method was used. The interview was used to collect the primary data; numbers and percentage, to summarize the information; the one-sample proportion hypothesis test and the compare proportions test using Minitab v.19, to identify possible differences across groups; and Microsoft Excel 2016, to produce the graphics. Results: The average number of contacts was higher among the autochthonous cases, prevailing the co-workers, neighbors and children. The contact-case relationship in imported cases was friend, driver, and mother or father-in-law; while in the autochthonous cases, it was son or daughter. Preventive actions were less used, and extra-domiciliary contacts of imported cases predominated. Contacts of imported cases were hospitalized more often, and had a higher proportion of asymptomatic than the autochthonous cases, but there was no significant differences. Conclusions: A differentiated pattern of transmission was not obtained; except that, transmission among autochthonous cases was between parent and child; while in imported cases, it was between friends(AU)

Report of autochthonous cases of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana in vulnerable, susceptible areas of Southeastern Mexico

ABSTRACT Localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL) is an endemic disease in several Mexican States with the main endemic areas located in the South-Southeast region of the country, where 90% of Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana cases are registered. The Southeast region is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatan States. Campeche and Quintana Roo register more than 60% of the cases in the country each year, while in Yucatan the reports are of imported cases due to residents traveling to endemic areas. However, since 2015, autochthonous cases have been diagnosed by health authorities in municipalities with no previous transmission records. We aimed to identify Leishmania parasite species involved in autochthonous cases by means of the PCR technique. The present study included 13 autochthonous cases of LCL with clinical and parasitological diagnoses during 2018 and 2019 by health authorities, without specific identification of the causal agent. Tissue samples were taken by scraping the margins of active lesions and then they were spotted onto an FTATM Elute Microcard. Next, DNA was eluted and used for PCR amplification of specific Leishmania genus and L. (L.) mexicana species-specific fragments. Molecular analysis showed evidence that L. (L.) mexicana was the causal agent of LCL in 12 of the 13 patients; in one patient, PCR was not performed due to the patient's refusal to participate in the study. Identifying Leishmania species that cause LCL is necessary to define efficient treatment schemes and control strategies for the disease in vulnerable and susceptible areas of the Yucatan State's municipalities.

Potential of some autochthonous wild plants of Burundi for vegetable oil and valuable compounds production / Potencial de algumas plantas silvestres autóctones do Burundi para a produção de óleos vegetais e compostos valiosos

Abstract Twelve species of indigenous plants have been studied in order to valorize some natural resources of Burundi (Eastern Africa) to investigate possibilities of vegetable oil production. Physicochemical properties and oil contents were determined from seeds harvested through five ecogeographic zones. From oilcake extracts, total sugars contents, proteins (TPrC), polyphenolic (TPhC), and flavonoids were quantified using spectrophotometry. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of oilcake extracts was assessed by 2, 2-diphenyl-b-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. All oil contents obtained were found to be quite similar to those of common oleaginous seeds. The two highest were found in Parinari curatellifolia (61.44 ± 4.81% Dry Matter) and Myrianthus arboreus (48.26 ± 5.96% DM). More than half of the species have shown TPrC ranging from 10 to 24% dry matter of oilcake (DM). Brachystegia longifolia was revealed exceptionally stronger antioxidant potential: effectiveness antiradical of 163.06 ± 26.29 mL/μg.min (DPPH assay) and reducing power of 2618.21 ± 161.22 GAE/100 g DM (FRAP assay). TPhC were positively correlated (p < 0.05) to the antioxidant activity. This pioneering work on these wild species highlight the potential for producing vegetable oil and valuable biomolecule sources likely for food, cosmetics, pharmacy and industry.

Resumo Doze espécies de plantas indígenas foram estudadas para valorizar alguns recursos naturais do Burundi (África Oriental), para investigar as possibilidades de produção de óleo vegetal. As propriedades físico-químicas e o conteúdo de óleo foram determinados com base em sementes colhidas em cinco zonas ecogeográficas. A partir de extratos de bagaço de óleo, os teores de açúcares totais, proteínas (TPrC), polifenólicos (TPhC) e flavonoides foram quantificados por espectrofotometria. Além disso, a atividade antioxidante dos extratos de bagaços foi avaliada por ensaios de 2,2-difenil-b-picrilhidrazil (DPPH) e antioxidante redutor de ferro (FRAP). Todos os conteúdos de óleo obtidos foram encontrados para ser bastante semelhantes aos das sementes oleaginosas comuns. Os dois maiores foram encontrados em Parinari curatellifolia (61,44 ± 4,81% de matéria seca [MS]) e Myrianthus arboreus (48,26 ± 5,96% de MS). Mais da metade das espécies mostrou TPrC variando de 10% a 24% de MS de tortas. Brachystegia longifolia revelou um potencial antioxidante excepcionalmente mais forte: eficácia antirradical de 163,06 ± 26,29 mL/μg.min (DPPH assay) e poder redutor de 2.618,21 ± 161,22 GAE/100 g de MS (ensaio FRAP). TPhC correlacionaram-se positivamente (p < 0,05) com a atividade antioxidante. Este trabalho pioneiro sobre essas espécies selvagens destaca o potencial para a produção de óleo vegetal e fontes valiosas de biomoléculas para alimentos, cosméticos, farmácia e indústria.

Primera comunidad en cuarentena por la COVID-19 de Cuba / First Cuban community quarantined by COVID-19

RESUMEN Introducción: el brote de la enfermedad causada por el coronavirus 2019 es una emergencia de salud pública con importancia internacional, situación de la que Cuba no escapa. Objetivo: caracterizar clínico-epidemiológicamente el evento epidemiológico por COVID-19 en la comunidad Camilo Cienfuegos, municipio Consolación del Sur, provincia Pinar del Río. Métodos: se realizó una investigación observacional, descriptiva, longitudinal y prospectiva, en el período comprendido entre marzo a mayo de 2020 en la comunidad Camilo Cienfuegos del municipio Consolación del Sur, declarada en cuarentena epidemiológica, con 10 casos confirmados de la enfermedad. Se confeccionó la araña epidemiológica, el cronopatograma y el mapa de ubicación de los casos positivos. Resultados: en la caracterización socio-demográficamente, predominó el sexo masculino, grupo etario de 0 a 19 años, modo de contagio introducido, la nacionalidad cubana, la evolución favorable de la enfermedad, y el período de incubación corto. Fueron descritas las acciones de salud implementadas en las primeras fases de enfrentamiento de la enfermedad. Conclusiones: el evento epidemiológico por COVID-19 fue caracterizado clínico- epidemiológicamente, se demostró la importancia de una adecuada implementación de los planes descritos para el control de la enfermedad, y la prevención desde la Atención Primaria de Salud, como herramienta fundamental.

ABSTRACT Introduction: the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a public health emergency of international importance, a situation from which Cuba does not escape. Objective: to characterize clinical and epidemiologically the event caused by COVID-19 at Camilo Cienfuegos community in Consolación del Sur municipality, Pinar del Rio province. Methods: an observational, descriptive, longitudinal and prospective research was carried out during the period from March to May 2020 in the above-mentioned community, which was confirmed in epidemiological quarantine, with 10 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The epidemiological SPIDER search tool, the chronopathology and the map of the location of the positive cases were drawn up. Results: in the socio-demographic characterization of the community, male sex, the age group from 0 to 19 years old, way of transmission, Cuban citizens, the favorable evolution of the disease, and the short incubation period predominated. The health actions implemented in the first phases in order to deal with the disease were described. Conclusions: the epidemiological event caused by COVID-19 was clinical and epidemiologically characterized. The importance of an adequate implementation of the strategies described for the control of the disease was presented, where prevention actions from Primary Health Care are essential.

First epidemiological description of tegumentar and visceral Leishmaniasis in Patrocínio municipality, Minas Gerais (2000-2017) / Primeira descrição epidemiológica de leishmaniose tegumentar e visceral no município de Patrocínio, Minas Gerais (2000-2017)

Leishmaniasis is a disease that can affect visceral organs (visceral leishmaniasis; VL) or mucous membranes and skin, causing lesions of different forms and levels of severities (tegumentary leishmaniasis; TL). Like several others, leishmaniasis is a neglected disease, as the pharmaceutical industry seems to show little to no interest in developing new drugs targeting the disease. This study aims to trace the epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis in the Municipality of Patrocínio, State of Minas Gerais, over a period of time. Secondary data of reported cases from 2000 to 2017 were analyzed as provided by the Patrocinio Health Department. As no literature was found on the status of such a disease in Patrocinio, it is important to trace the epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis in the area. The findings pointed out that the disease affected predominantly male in the economically active population, mainly from the urban area, and that it had no relationship with professional activity. Twenty-two cases of leishmaniasis (15 of TL and 7 of VL) were reported, all of which were treated and cured. Five cases of TL and 1 case of VL were autochthonous, and confirmed cases of canine infection took place in 2011, 2016 and 2017.KEYWORDS: Alto Paranaíba. Autochthonous. Human leishmaniasis. Triângulo Mineiro. INTRODUCTION Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus, which are transmitted from one host to another by phlebotomine sandflies (NAGLE et al., 2014). It may affect both visceral organs and skin surfaces (HANDLER et al., 2015) and lead to four major clinical syndromes: cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL), visceral leishmaniasis or kala-azar (VL) and post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) (ANVERSA et al., 2018). Leishmaniasis is treated as a public health problem due to its high incidence and the disorders it can cause to the affected individuals. TL is characterized by ulcers on the face and/or extremities and nasal/oral/pharyngeal mucous (HANDLER et al, 2015), which can cause deformities such as disfiguring and permanent scars with partial or total mutilation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa, with further social, economic and psychological implications (ANVERSA et al., 2018, SUNYOTO; BOELAERT; MEHEUS, 2019). The mortality rate for VL, a more severe form, is 10%, making it the second most deadly tropical parasitic infection in the world after malaria (HANDLER et al., 2015). Updated regional information on the disease is important for epidemiological surveillance. However, the actual number of leishmaniasis cases is unknown due to underreporting, lack of epidemiological surveillance system or adequate diagnostic methods. Most data on incidence rates are based on estimates (PACE, 2014). Around 1.5 to 2 million new cases of leishmaniasis are estimated to occur annually worldwide: 500,000 are VL; 1 to 1.5 million cases are related to cutaneous or mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Both forms commonly occur in Brazil (ANVERSA et al., 2018; WHO, 2020). Silva (2017) reported that the highest incidence rates of VL in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2002 to 2013 were concentrated in the mesoregions in the North (Noroeste de Minas, Norte de Minas, and Jequitinhonha), in the East (Vale do Rio Doce) and in the center of the state (Central Mineira and Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte). The other mesoregions (Campo das Verentes, Oeste de Minas, Sul/Sudoeste de Minas, Triângulo Received: 08/04/19 Accepted: 20/12/19

A leishmaniose é uma doença que pode afetar órgãos viscerais (leishmaniose visceral; LV) ou as mucosas e a pele, provocando lesões de diferentes formas e gravidades (leishmaniose tegumentar; LT). Como várias outras moléstias, a leishmaniose é uma doença negligenciada, já que a indústria farmacêutica parece mostrar pouco ou nenhum interesse em desenvolver novos medicamentos direcionados à enfermidade. O estudo teve como objetivo traçar o perfil epidemiológico da leishmaniose no município de Patrocínio, estado de Minas Gerais, ao longo de um período de tempo. Dados secundários de casos registrados no período de 2000 a 2017 foram analisados, conforme fornecido pelo Departamento de Saúde de Patrocínio. Como não foi encontrada literatura sobre a situação dessa doença em Patrocínio, é importante traçar o perfil epidemiológico da leishmaniose na região. Os achados apontaram que a doença afetou predominantemente o sexo masculino da população economicamente ativa, principalmente da área urbana, e que não tinha relação com a atividade profissional. Foram notificados 22 casos de leishmaniose (15 de LT e 7 de LV), todos tratados e curados. Cinco casos de LT e 1 de LV foram considerados autóctones, e houve casos confirmados de infecção canina nos anos de 2011, 2016 e 2017.

Comparação da qualidade seminal de caprinos das raças Canindé e Alpina Britânica no Nordeste brasileiro / Comparison of the seminal quality of Canindé and British Alpine goats in the Brazilian Northeast

O estudo objetivou avaliar a qualidade seminal de caprinos das raças Canindé (autóctone) e Alpina Britânica (exótica) no Nordeste brasileiro. O experimento foi realizado nos períodos de julho a setembro dos anos de 2015 e 2016. As coletas seminais foram realizadas com auxílio de vagina artificial, de machos das raças Canindé (n = 4) e Alpina Britânica (n = 7). Após a coleta, o sêmen foi avaliado quanto a: volume (ml), concentração (sptz/ml), motilidade (%) e vigor (1-5). Em seguida, diluído em ACP-101c e criopreservado em máquina TK3000TM. Posteriormente, foram analisados os parâmetros cinéticos, através do software SCA®, e a atividade mitocondrial. No sêmen fresco, as duas raças apresentaram valores de motilidade e concentração dentro do preconizado para a espécie. Entretanto, os valores de volume e circunferência escrotal foram superiores na raça Alpina Britânica (0,73 ml ± 0,32; 27,35 cm ± 2,09) do que na raça Canindé (0,36 ml ± 0,07; 23,25 cm ± 0,95) (p < 0,05). Já no sêmen descongelado, os parâmetros motilidade total - MT (36,96% ± 11,16 vs. 20,50% ± 14,15), motilidade progressiva - MP (26,67% ± 11,13 vs. 11,29% ± 9,42), vigor (2,91 ± 0,90 vs. 1,88 ± 0,67), velocidade curvilinear - VCL (78,12 µm/s ± 12,41 vs. 59,28 µm/s ± 15,57), velocidade linear - VSL (49,23 µm/s ± 9,87 vs. 29,9 µm/s ± 9,48), velocidade média da trajetória - VAP (66,08 µm/s ± 12,77 vs. 45,70 µm/s ± 12,20), linearidade - LIN (62,97% ± 6,96 vs. 49,54%±9,50), retilinearidade - STR (74,63% ± 6,44 vs. 65,77% ± 8,92), e oscilação - WOB (84,32% ± 5,94 vs. 74,42% ± 7,31) foram superiores para a raça Canindé em detrimento à Alpina Britânica (p < 0,05). Portanto, o sêmen fresco das duas raças podem ser utilizados em biotécnicas reprodutivas. Já o sêmen pós-descongelação da raça Canindé apresentou melhor qualidade, provavelmente pelos animais estarem mais adaptados às condições adversas da região Nordeste, sendo recomendado para programas de inseminação artificial.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the sperm quality of Canindé (native) and British Alpine (exotic) goats in the Northeast of Brazil. The experiment was carried out from July to September of the years 2015 and 2016. Sperm collections of Canindé (n = 4) and British Alpine (n = 7) males were performed using artificial vagina. After collection, the sperm was evaluated for volume (ml), concentration (sptz/ml), motility (%), and vigor (1-5). Then diluted in ACP-101c and cryopreserved in TK3000TM machine. Subsequently, kinetic parameters were analyzed through SCA TM software and mitochondrial activity. In fresh sperm, the two races presented values of motility and concentration within the recommended for the specie. However, volume and scrotal circumference values were higher in the British Alpine breed (0.73 mL ± 0.32; 27.35 cm ± 2.09) than in the Canindé breed (0.36 mL ± 0.07; 23 , 25 cm ± 0.95) (p <0.05). In the thawed sperm, the parameters total motility - TM (36.96% ± 11.16 vs. 20.50% ± 14.15), progressive motility - PM (26.67% ± 11.13 vs. 11.29 % ± 9.42), vigor (2.91 ± 0.90 vs. 1.88 ± 0.67), curvilinear velocity - VCL (78.12 µm/s ± 12.41 vs. 59.28 µm/s ± 15.57), linear velocity - VSL (49.23 µm/s ± 9.87 vs. 29.9 µm/s ± 9.48), mean velocity of the trajectory - VAP (66.08 µm/s ± 12.77 vs. 45.70 µm/s ± 12.20), linearity - LIN (62.97% ± 6.96 vs. 49.54% ± 9.50), rectilinearity - STR (74.63% ± 6.44 vs. 65.77% ± 8.92), and oscillation -WOB (84.32% ± 5.94 vs. 74.42% ± 7.31) were higher for Canindé breed than for British Alpine ( p < 0.05). Therefore, fresh sperm from both breeds can be used in reproductive biotechniques. On the other hand, the post-thawed sperm of the Canindé breed showed better quality, probably because the animals were more adapted to the adverse conditions of the Northeast region and are recommended for artificial insemination programs.(AU)

Primer reporte de caso autóctono de tinea nigra en Chile / First autochthonous case report of tinea nigra in Chile

Resumen La tinea nigra es una infrecuente micosis superficial causada por el hongo dematiáceo Hortaea werneckii. Se presenta habitualmente en zonas costeras tropicales, siendo muy escasos los reportes en países sudamericanos con climas más templados. Habitualmente corresponde a infecciones importadas por viajeros. Se presenta el caso de una paciente adulta chilena, sin historia previa de viajes recientes, cursando con cuadro clínico y microbiológico compatible con tinea nigra palmar, tratado con itraconazol oral y sertaconazol tópico con respuesta favorable. Esta paciente corresponde al primer caso reportado en Chile de origen autóctono.

Abstract Tinea nigra is an infrequent superficial mycosis caused by the dematiaceous fungus Hortaea werneckii. It usually occurs in tropical coastal areas, with very few reports in South American countries with temperate climates, generally corresponding to infections imported by travelers. We present the case of a Chilean adult patient, with no previous history of recent trips, with clinical and microbiological background consistent with palmar tinea nigra, treated with oral itraconazole and topical sertaconazole with a favorable response. This article is the first case reported in Chile, of autochthonous origin.

CAPACIDAD ANTIOXIDANTE Y ANTIMICROBIANA DE TUBÉRCULOS ANDINOS (Tropaeolum tuberosum y Ullucus tuberosus) / ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY OF ANDEAN TUBERS (Tropaeolum tuberosum y Ullucus tuberosus)

RESUMEN Los tubérculos andinos formaron parte de la dieta de poblaciones originarias y son considerados como alimentos de alta calidad nutricional; sin embargo, en la actualidad, su uso ha disminuido. En este estudio, se plantea, como objetivo, evaluar características funcionales (capacidad antioxidante y antimicrobiana) de dos tubérculos consumidos tradicionalmente en Colombia, cubio (Tropaeolum tuberosum) y ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus). Para esto, se recolectaron tallos, hojas y tubérculo de cubio y de ulluco, se secaron a 38°C, por 90 horas y se realizaron extractos con etanol al 50% v/v. En los extractos obtenidos, se midió la capacidad antioxidante, por las técnicas DPPH y ABTS y el efecto inhibitorio en Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus fermentum y Cándida utilis, mediante la técnica de discos. Se encontró alto porcentaje de capacidad antioxidante en todas las partes de la planta en ambos tubérculos; las que presentaron mayor actividad son hojas y tallos. En la capacidad antimicrobiana, el cubio tuvo un efecto bacteriostático sobre C. utilis, mientras que el ulluco tuvo un efecto sobre E. coli. Debido a lo anterior, estos dos tubérculos poseen potencial para la extracción de compuestos antioxidantes y antimicrobianos permitiendo, de esta manera, establecer alternativas de uso para los tubérculos y subproductos (hojas y tallos).

ABSTRACT Andean tubers formed part of the diet of native populations and are considered as foods of high nutritional quality, however today its use has waned. This study proposes to evaluate functional characteristics (antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity) of two tubers traditionally consumed in Colombia, cubio (Tropaeolum tuberosum) and ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus). For this were collected stems, leaves and tuber of cubio and ulluco, were dried up to 38°C for 90 hours, and extracts were made with ethanol 50% v/v. In the extracts was measured the antioxidant capacity by DPPH and ABTS techniques and the inhibitory effect on Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Candida utilis, using the technique of discs. Found higher antioxidant capacity in all parts of the plant in both tubers, however, which showed greater activity are leaves and stems. The antimicrobial capacity, the cubio had a bacteriostatic effect on C. utilis, while the ulluco had an effect on E. coli. Due to the above, these two tubers have potential for the extraction of antioxidant compounds, antibiotics, thus allowing establish alternatives of use for tubers and by products (leaves and stems).

First autochthonous case of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Rondônia, Brazil, a region with no history of visceral leishmaniasis

Abstract This report describes the first autochthonous case of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Rondônia, northern Brazil. A canine resident of the municipality of Cacoal, with clinical signs and symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis, was treated by a veterinarian. Samples were analyzed by a reference laboratory. Dual-path platform (DPP) assay, indirect immunofluorescence technique (IIT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), isolation in a culture medium, and direct parasitological analysis were performed. DPP assay, IIT, and ELISA revealed positive results for Leishmania; PCR identified the species as Leishmania infantum. Based on the clinical presentation and test results, canine visceral leishmaniasis was diagnosed.

Potential of some autochthonous wild plants of Burundi for vegetable oil and valuable compounds production

Abstract Twelve species of indigenous plants have been studied in order to valorize some natural resources of Burundi (Eastern Africa) to investigate possibilities of vegetable oil production. Physicochemical properties and oil contents were determined from seeds harvested through five ecogeographic zones. From oilcake extracts, total sugars contents, proteins (TPrC), polyphenolic (TPhC), and flavonoids were quantified using spectrophotometry. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of oilcake extracts was assessed by 2, 2-diphenyl-b-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. All oil contents obtained were found to be quite similar to those of common oleaginous seeds. The two highest were found in Parinari curatellifolia (61.44 ± 4.81% Dry Matter) and Myrianthus arboreus (48.26 ± 5.96% DM). More than half of the species have shown TPrC ranging from 10 to 24% dry matter of oilcake (DM). Brachystegia longifolia was revealed exceptionally stronger antioxidant potential: effectiveness antiradical of 163.06 ± 26.29 mL/g.min (DPPH assay) and reducing power of 2618.21 ± 161.22 GAE/100 g DM (FRAP assay). TPhC were positively correlated (p 0.05) to the antioxidant activity. This pioneering work on these wild species highlight the potential for producing vegetable oil and valuable biomolecule sources likely for food, cosmetics, pharmacy and industry.

Resumo Doze espécies de plantas indígenas foram estudadas para valorizar alguns recursos naturais do Burundi (África Oriental), para investigar as possibilidades de produção de óleo vegetal. As propriedades físico-químicas e o conteúdo de óleo foram determinados com base em sementes colhidas em cinco zonas ecogeográficas. A partir de extratos de bagaço de óleo, os teores de açúcares totais, proteínas (TPrC), polifenólicos (TPhC) e flavonoides foram quantificados por espectrofotometria. Além disso, a atividade antioxidante dos extratos de bagaços foi avaliada por ensaios de 2,2-difenil-b-picrilhidrazil (DPPH) e antioxidante redutor de ferro (FRAP). Todos os conteúdos de óleo obtidos foram encontrados para ser bastante semelhantes aos das sementes oleaginosas comuns. Os dois maiores foram encontrados em Parinari curatellifolia (61,44 ± 4,81% de matéria seca [MS]) e Myrianthus arboreus (48,26 ± 5,96% de MS). Mais da metade das espécies mostrou TPrC variando de 10% a 24% de MS de tortas. Brachystegia longifolia revelou um potencial antioxidante excepcionalmente mais forte: eficácia antirradical de 163,06 ± 26,29 mL/g.min (DPPH assay) e poder redutor de 2.618,21 ± 161,22 GAE/100 g de MS (ensaio FRAP). TPhC correlacionaram-se positivamente (p 0,05) com a atividade antioxidante. Este trabalho pioneiro sobre essas espécies selvagens destaca o potencial para a produção de óleo vegetal e fontes valiosas de biomoléculas para alimentos, cosméticos, farmácia e indústria.

Bacterial Diversity in the Digestive Tracts of Four Indian Air-Breathing Fish Species Investigated by PCR Based Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis

ABSTRACT An investigation was conducted to identify the allochthonous microbiota (entire intestine) and the autochthonous microbiota in proximal intestine (PI) and distal intestine (DI) of four species of Indian air-breathing fish (climbing perch; Anabas testudineus, murrel; Channa punctatus, walking catfish; Clarias batrachus and stinging catfish; Heteropneustes fossilis) by PCR based denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). High similarities of the allochthonous microbiota were observed between climbing perch and murrel, walking catfish and stinging catfish, indicating similar food behavior. The autochthonous microbiota of PI and DI from climbing perch and murrel revealed more similarity, than the result obtained from walking catfish and stinging catfish. The autochthonous microbiota of climbing perch and murrel were similar with regard to the allochthonous microbiota, but no such similarity was observed in case of walking catfish and stinging catfish. The fish genotype and intestinal bacteria are well matched and show co-evolutionary relationship. Three fish species has its unique bacteria; autochthonous Enterobacter cloacae, Edwardsiella tarda and Sphingobium sp. in DI of climbing perch, Pseudomonas sp.; allochthonous and autochthonous in PI of walking catfish and uncultured bacterium (EU697160.1), uncultured bacterium (JF018065.1) and uncultured bacterium (EU697160.1) for stinging catfish. In murrel, no unique bacteria were detected.

Trophic strategy of Atlantirivulus riograndensis (Cyprinodontiformes: Rivulidae), a non-annual rivulid threatened by extinction, in a perennial environment, Brazil)

Rivulidae includes non-annual fish of perennial habitats and annual fish of temporary wetlands. The objective of this research was to investigate the trophic strategy of Atlantirivulus riograndensis in a perennial environment. Sampling occurred in an environmental conservation unit in the Pampa biome, Brazil. Quantification of the diet followed the volumetric method. Consumption of autochthonous material as the main food source of the species followed the pattern of Rivulidae. Species is zooplanktonic when young. Food spectrum is broadened and insectivorousness increases with ontogeny, revealing a specialist trend in the feeding strategy of A. riograndensis. The most diverse feeding occurs in the spring and summer seasons in which the presence of larger fish was more frequent than in other seasons. The increased consumption of microcrustaceans in the fall was related to smaller individuals, captured in greater quantities in this post-reproductive period. The lowest diversity of dietary items occurs during the winter and may reflect the lower diversity of food resources available in this season or the transition from juvenile to adult diet, with consumption of autochthonous Diptera by medium sized fish.

Rivulidae inclui peixes não anuais de habitats perenes e peixes anuais de alagados temporários. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar a estratégia trófica de Atlantirivulus riograndensis em um ambiente perene. A amostragem ocorreu em uma unidade de conservação ambiental no bioma Pampa, Brasil. A quantificação da dieta seguiu o método volumétrico. O consumo de material autóctone como principal recurso alimentar da espécie seguiu o padrão da família Rivulidae. A espécie é zooplanctívora quando juvenil. O espectro alimentar é ampliado e a tendência à insetivoria aumenta com a ontogenia, revelando traços especialistas na estratégia alimentar de A. riograndensis. A alimentação mais diversificada ocorreu na primavera e no verão, estações em que a presença dos peixes maiores foi frequente que em outras estações. O aumento no consumo de microcrustáceos no inverno foi relacionado aos indivíduos menores, capturados em maior quantidade neste período pós-reprodutivo. A menor diversidade de itens alimentares ocorreu durante o inverno e pode refletir uma menor diversidade de recursos alimentares disponíveis nesta época do ano ou a transição da dieta de juvenil para adulto, com consumo de Diptera autóctone por peixes de tamanho médio.

Differences in the feeding of Rhamdia quelen (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) in four distinct lotic systems / Diferenças na alimentação de Rhamdia quelen em quatro diferentes ordens de sistemas lóticos

AbstractThe aim of this study was to compare the food composition of Rhamdia quelen in four distinct order rivers. It was performed at a low part at the basin of the Sorocaba river in systems classified as first (Anastácio stream), second (Nego stream), fifth (Tatuí river) and sixth (Sorocaba river) orders. Collections were performed every month between January and December of 2011. The stomach contents were examined by using the alimentary index (IAi) and compared by the non-parametric method non-metric multidimensional scale ranking (NMDS) with the Spearman rank correlation. A diet difference was observed for individuals of the smaller systems (Anastácio and Nego streams) and the larger ones (Tatui and Sorocaba rivers), represented respectively by allochthonous and autochthonous organisms compounding their diets. Marginal vegetation and its interaction with the water conditions may respond to these composition differences.

ResumoEste estudo teve como objetivo comparar a alimentação de Rhamdia quelenem quatro diferentes ordens de sistemas lóticos. O estudo foi realizado em um trecho da parte baixa da bacia do rio Sorocaba, em sistemas de primeira (Anastácio stream), segunda (Nego stream), quinta (Tatuí river) e sexta (Sorocaba river) ordens. As coletas foram realizadas mensalmente entre janeiro a dezembro de 2011. Os conteúdos estomacais foram analisados pelo índice alimentar (IAi) e comparados pelo método de escalonamento multidimencional não-metrico (NMDS), juntamente com a correlação de Spearman. Foi percebida uma diferença na dieta dos indivíduos dos sistemas menores, córregos Anastácio e Nego e os rios maiores, rios Tatuí e Sorocaba. Nos córregos Nego e Anastácio houve maior incidência de itens de origem alóctone na dieta, enquanto que nos rios Tatuí e Sorocaba foi observado o inverso. A diferença nos itens consumidos pode depender da ordem dos sistemas lóticos e da interação entre a vegetação marginal com o sistema aquático.

Malaria in pregnant women living in areas of low transmission on the southeast Brazilian Coast: molecular diagnosis and humoural immunity profile

Studies on autochthonous malaria in low-transmission areas in Brazil have acquired epidemiological relevance because they suggest continued transmission in what remains of the Atlantic Forest. In the southeastern portion of the state of São Paulo, outbreaks in the municipality of Juquitiba have been the focus of studies on the prevalence of Plasmodium, including asymptomatic cases. Data on the occurrence of the disease or the presence of antiplasmodial antibodies in pregnant women from this region have not previously been described. Although Plasmodium falciparum in pregnant women has been widely addressed in the literature, the interaction of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium malariae with this cohort has been poorly explored to date. We monitored the circulation of Plasmodium in pregnant women in health facilities located in Juquitiba using thick blood film and molecular protocols, as well as immunological assays, to evaluate humoural immune parameters. Through real-time and nested polymerase chain reaction, P. vivax and P. malariae were detected for the first time in pregnant women, with a positivity of 5.6%. Immunoassays revealed the presence of IgG antibodies: 44% for ELISA-Pv, 38.4% for SD-Bioline-Pv and 18.4% for indirect immunofluorescence assay-Pm. The high prevalence of antibodies showed significant exposure of this population to Plasmodium. In regions with similar profiles, testing for a malaria diagnosis might be indicated in prenatal care.

Aplicaciones de un modelo integral para el estudio de la malaria urbana en San Andrés de Tumaco, Colombia / Applications of a comprehensive model for the study of urban malaria in San Andrés de Tumaco, Colombia

Se analizaron las características epidemiológicas y factores asociados con la transmisión de la malaria urbana en el mundo, mediante la revisión de literatura publicada, en la cual se incluyeron libros, artículos científicos, revisiones de temas y reportes técnicos. La metodología aplicada se basó en la búsqueda de documentos y gestores en fuentes bibliográficas. Con los resultados se espera retratar la actualidad del fenómeno de malaria urbana en función de su carga de morbilidad y mortalidad, que sirve de base para el desarrollo de las investigaciones y estrategias pertinentes para su control.

A study was conducted of the epidemiological characteristics of urban malaria and the factors associated to its transmission worldwide by means of a review of published materials, including books, scientific papers, topic reviews and technical reports. The methodology applied was based on the search for documents and managers in bibliographic sources. Results are expected to provide a current picture of the morbidity and mortality burden of urban malaria, laying the foundations for relevant research into the topic and the development of control strategies.

First autochthonous case of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Primeiro caso autóctone de leishmaniose visceral canina em Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

In Brazil, American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL) is caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi and its main vector is Lutzomyia longipalpis. Cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in non-endemic areas have been reported over the last few years throughout the country. The objective of this research note is to describe an autochthonous case of CVL that occurred in the municipality of Volta Redonda, state of Rio de Janeiro, an area where the disease is not endemic, alerting veterinarians and the scientific community to the expansion of this important zoonosis and advising veterinary practitioners on how to deal with a suspicion of CVL. Canine visceral leishmaniasis can be misdiagnosed within a broad spectrum of canine diseases based on clinical and laboratory findings. Therefore, knowledge of its clinical manifestations, specific and sensitive laboratory diagnostic tests and parasitological procedures are of the utmost importance for rapid confirmation and notification of a case, thus contributing directly to the control of a focus.

No Brasil a leishmaniose visceral americana (LVA) é causada por Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi e tem como seu principal vetor Lutzomyia longipalpis. Nos últimos anos vêm sendo relatados casos de leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) em áreas não endêmicas em todo país. O objetivo desta nota é descrever um caso autóctone de LVC no município de Volta Redonda, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, área não endêmica para essa doença e assim, chamar a atenção dos clínicos veterinários e da comunidade científica para a expansão dessa importante zoonose, além de orientar os médicos veterinários, como proceder frente a um caso suspeito de LVC. A LVC pode ser clínica e laboratorialmente confundida com uma ampla gama de patologias caninas e o conhecimento de suas manifestações clínicas e de procedimentos laboratoriais específicos e sensíveis para esse diagnóstico, são de grande importância para uma rápida confirmação e notificação do caso, contribuindo assim diretamente para o controle do foco.

An Autochthonous Case of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis in Korea

A 12-year-old spayed female mixed-bred dog presented with nasal bleeding of 2 days duration and a skin nodule in the left flank. No abnormalities were found in coagulation profiles and blood pressure. Cytological evaluation of the nodule revealed numerous characteristic round organisms having a nucleus and a bar within macrophages and in the background, consistent with leishmaniasis. In vitro culture was unsuccessful but PCR of the nodular aspirate identified the organisms as Leishmania infantum, and the final diagnosis was canine leishmaniasis. No history of travel to endemic countries was noted. Because the dog had received a blood transfusion 2 years before the illness, serological screening tests were performed in all donor dogs of the commercial blood bank using the commercial Leishmania ELISA test kit, and there were no positive results. Additional 113 dogs with hyperglobulinemia from Seoul were also screened with the same kits but no positive results were obtained. To the best of the author's knowledge this is the first autochthonous case of canine leishmaniasis in Korea.

First description of autochthonous canine visceral leishmaniasis in the metropolitan region of Vitória, State of Espírito Santo, Brazil / Primeira descrição de leishmaniose visceral canina autóctone na Região Metropolitana de Vitória, Estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil

INTRODUCTION: We investigated autochthonous canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in the metropolitan region of Vitória (MRV), an area in which a human case was previously reported. METHODS: Serological, parasitological, and molecular tests were performed in 201 dogs. RESULTS: Twenty-six (13%) and 12 (6%) dogs were identified as positive using in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and rK39 tests, respectively. Two dogs had a positive culture for Leishmania chagasi, and 4 were polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive for Leishmania spp. One positive dog belonged to the aforementioned patient. CONCLUSIONS: Although the responsible vector was not found, our results provide evidence of autochthonous CVL in the MRV, a non-endemic area for VL.

INTRODUÇÃO: Descrevemos um foco de leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) autóctone na Região Metropolitana de Vitória (RMV) onde um caso humano foi registrado anteriormente. MÉTODOS: Testes sorológicos, parasitológicos e moleculares foram realizados em 201 cães. RESULTADOS: Vinte e seis (13%) e 12 (6%) foram positivos para um teste ELISA in house e rK39, respectivamente. Dois cães apresentaram cultura positiva para Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi e quatro PCR positivo para Leishmania spp. Um dos cães positivo pertencia ao paciente supracitado. CONCLUSÕES: Embora o vetor não tenha sido encontrado, nossos resultados fornecem evidências da LVC autóctone na RMV, área não-endêmica para leishmaniose visceral.

Emprego de estirpes Leptospira spp. isoladas no Brasil na microtécnica de soroaglutinação microscópica aplicada ao diagnóstico da leptospirose em rebanhos bovinos de oito estados brasileiros / Use of Leptospira spp. strains isolated in Brazil in the microscopic agglutination test applied to diagnosis of leptospirosis in cattle herds in eight brazilian states

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar a conveniência do emprego de estirpes de leptospiras autóctones isoladas no Brasil, na coleção de antígenos da microtécnica de soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM) aplicada a leptospirose. Foram amostradas por conveniência 109 propriedades e 9820 bovinos, fêmeas em idade reprodutiva, distribuídos em 85 municípios, dos Estados de Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina e São Paulo. Dos 9820 animais examinados, 5806 (59,12%) foram reagentes na SAM para pelo menos um sorovar com a coleção de 23 sorovares de referência. Com a coleção de antígenos de referência e dez estirpes autóctones houve 6400 (65,17%) reagentes, com diferença significativa entre as proporções (p=0,001). Os sorovares mais prováveis identificados com a coleção de antígenos de referência foram Hardjo (43,03%), Shermani (20 %), Wolffi (9,96%), Grippothyphosa (5,42%) e Pomona (4,28%). Com a coleção ampliada por dez estirpes isoladas no Brasil, os sorovares mais prováveis foram Hardjo (31,00%), Guaricura-M4/84 (22,50%), Shermani (15,43%), Wolffi (4,76%), Grippothyphosa (3,71%) e Autumnalis (3,24%). O sorovar Guaricura, estirpe M4/84, isolada de bovinos e búfalos no Estado de São Paulo, despontou como um dos três sorovares mais freqüentes nos Estados de Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais e São Paulo. A introdução de estirpes autóctones na coleção de antígenos da SAM propiciou a confirmação do diagnóstico de leptospirose em 594 animais (6,00%) classificados como não reagentes pela coleção de referência (p=0,001).

The aim of this study was to investigate the adequacy of the use of autochthonous strains of leptospires isolated in Brazil, added to antigen collection of the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) applied to the diagnosis of bovine leptospirosis. By means of non-probability sampling, 109 farms and 9,820 cattle, females at reproductive age were chosen from 85 municipalities in the states of Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and São Paulo. Among the 9,820 examined animals, 5,806 (59.12%) were reactants at MAT for at least one serovar using the 23 reference serovars. Employing the collection of reference serovars and the ten autochthonous strains, 6,400 (65.24%) reactants and significant difference (p=0.001) was found. The most probable serovars identified by the collection of reference antigens were Hardjo (43.03%), Shermani (20%), Wolfi (9.96%), Grippothyphosa (5.42%) and Pomona (4.28%). With the collection amplified with the ten strains isolated in Brazil, the most probable serovars were Hardjo (31%), Guaricura-M4/84 (22.50%), Shermani (15.43%), Wolffi (4.76%), Grippothyphosa (3.71%) and Autumnalis (3.24%). The serovar Guaricura, strain M4/84, isolated from bovines and buffaloes in the State of São Paulo, was ranked as one of the three most probable serovars in the states of Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais and São Paulo. The addition of autochthonous strains to the MAT antigen collection provided the confirmation of the diagnosis of leptospirosis in 594 cattle (6%) which have been classified as non-reactants by the reference collection (p=0.001).

Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis is the main species causing cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Federal District of Brazil

The first autochthonous case of American cutaneous leishmaniasis was reported in the Federal District in 1980, and the species involved in this type of leishmaniasis was unknown. This study aimed to identify the species that causes the disease in the Federal District and to investigate its clinical and epidemiological aspects. Between 2000 and 2007, 71 autochthonous cases of leishmaniasis were reported in the Federal District. Leishmania species were identified by means of direct immunofluorescence reactions using monoclonal antibodies and restriction fragment length polymorphism. The species of 40 (56.33%) out of 71 samples were identified. Thirty-six (90%) were identified as Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis and four (10%) were identified as Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. In this area, the disease had clinical and epidemiological characteristics similar to those found in other Brazilian regions.