Isotretinoin-induced arthritis: A rare but feasible diagnosis. Case report

Many medications and vaccines have had implications in the development of musculoskeletal and joint symptoms, and among them the use of retinoids has been associated with the development of musculoskeletal symptoms, as well as axial symptoms suggestive of spondyloarthritis, with sacroiliitis, and to a lesser extent the development of peripheral symptoms. We describe the debut of peripheral inflammatory symptoms with the use of isotretinoin, in a previously healthy patient.

Muchos medicamentos y vacunas han tenido implicaciones en el desarrollo de síntomas osteomusculares y articulares. Entre ellos, el uso de retinoides se ha asociado con el desarrollo de síntomas musculoesqueléticos, así como síntomas axiales sugestivos de espondiloartritis con sacroileítis, y en menor proporción el desarrollo de síntomas periféricos. Describimos el inicio de síntomas inflamatorios periféricos con el uso de isotretinoína en una paciente previamente sana.

Carboxyhemoglobinemia as a laboratory finding in an outpatient

Resumen El monóxido de carbono (CO) es un gas producido principalmente por combustión incompleta de hidrocarburos. La intoxicación por exposición ambiental puede presentarse con síntomas inespecíficos y constituye la causa más importante de aumento de carboxihemoglobina (COHb). Su nivel en sangre depende de la duración de la exposición, la ventilación minuto y las concentraciones de CO y oxígeno en el ambiente. La elevada toxicidad radica en la hipoxia tisular que se genera. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino, 73 años, en seguimiento en el hospital por neumonía intersticial no específica como patología de base. En un control de laboratorio se encontró 11,9% de COHb, sin exposición a tabaco. No utilizaba calefacción a gas sino un panel cerámico eléctrico, recientemente pintado con esmalte sintético. La suspensión del uso del panel normalizó la COHb. El CO, producto de descomposición térmica del esmalte sintético, explica la causa de la intoxicación.

Abstract Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas produced mainly by incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. Poisoning from environmental exposure can present with nonspecific symptoms and is the most important cause of increased carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). Its blood level depends on the duration of exposure, minute ventilation, and the concentrations of CO and oxygen in the environment. The high toxicity lies in the tissue hypoxia that is generated. The case of a male patient, 73 years old, under follow-up in the hospital for non-specific interstitial pneumonia as the underlying pathology was presented. In a laboratory control, COHb 11,9% was found. There was no exposure to tobacco and there was no use of gas heating but of an electric ceramic panel, recently painted with synthetic enamel type paint. The suspension of the use of the panel normalised the COHb. The CO product of thermal decomposition of synthetic enamel explains the cause of poisoning.

Resumo O monóxido de carbono (CO) é um gás produzido principalmente pela combustão incompleta de hidrocarbonetos. A intoxicação por exposição ambiental pode se apresentar com sintomas inespecíficos e é a causa mais importante de aumento da carboxihemoglobina (COHb). Seu nível em sangue depende do tempo de exposição, da ventilação minuto e das concentrações de CO e oxigênio no ambiente. A alta toxicidade está na hipóxia tecidual gerada. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino, 73 anos, em acompanhamento hospitalar por pneumonia intersticial inespecífica como patologia de bas. Em um controle laboratorial, achou-se 11,9% de COHb, sem exposição ao tabaco. Não utilizava aquecimento a gás e sim um painel elétrico cerâmico, recentemente pintado com esmalte sintético. A suspensão do uso do painel normalizou o COHb. O CO produto da decomposição térmica do esmalte sintético explica a causa da intoxicação.

Advances in biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons / 生物工程学报

Petroleum hydrocarbon pollutants are difficult to be degraded, and bioremediation has received increasing attention for remediating the hydrocarbon polluted area. This review started by introducing the interphase adaptation and transport process of hydrocarbon by microbes. Subsequently, the advances made in the identification of hydrocarbon-degrading strains and genes as well as elucidation of metabolic pathways and underpinning mechanisms in the biodegradation of typical petroleum hydrocarbon pollutants were summarized. The capability of wild-type hydrocarbon degrading bacteria can be enhanced through genetic engineering and metabolic engineering. With the rapid development of synthetic biology, the bioremediation of hydrocarbon polluted area can be further improved by engineering the metabolic pathways of hydrocarbon-degrading microbes, or through design and construction of synthetic microbial consortia.

Advances in bioremediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil / 生物工程学报

With continuous improvement of people's living standards, great efforts have been paid to environmental protection. Among those environmental issues, soil contamination by petroleum hydrocarbons has received widespread concerns due to the persistence and the degradation difficulty of the pollutants. Among the various remediation technologies, in-situ microbial remediation enhancement technologies have become the current hotspot because of its low cost, environmental friendliness, and in-situ availability. This review summarizes several in-situ microbial remediation technologies such as bioaugmentation, biostimulation, and integrated remediation, as well as their engineering applications, providing references for the selection of in-situ bioremediation technologies in engineering applications. Moreover, this review discusses future research directions in this area.

Isolation and characterization of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria from gas station leaking-contaminated groundwater in the Southern Amazon, Brazil / Isolamento e caracterização de bactérias degradadoras de hidrocarbonetos de água subterrânea contaminada por vazamentos em posto de combustível no sul da Amazônia, Brasil

Abstract Twenty-three hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria strains were isolated from gas station leaking-contaminated groundwater located in the Southern Amazon, Brazil. Based on hydrocarbon (diesel, hexadecane, benzene, toluene and xylene) degradation ability, two strains were selected for further study. The amplification and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene showed that these two strains belonged to the genus Bacillus (Bacillus sp. L26 and Bacillus sp. L30). GC-MS analysis showed that strain L30 was the most effective in degrading n-alkane (C10-C27) from diesel after 7 days of cultivation in mineral medium. Both strains produced biosurfactants and showed emulsification activity, specially the strain L30. Alkane hydroxylase gene (group III), which is important for alkane biodegradation, was present in strains. As a result, this study indicated that these bacteria could have promising applications in hydrocarbon bioremediation.

Resumo Vinte e três linhagens bacterianas degradadoras de hidrocarbonetos foram isoladas de água subterrânea contaminada por vazamento em posto de combustível no sul da Amazônia, Brasil. Com base na habilidade de degradar hidrocarbonetos (diesel, hexadecano, benzeno, tolueno e xileno), duas linhagens foram selecionadas para estudos posteriores. A amplificação e sequenciamento do gene 16S rRNA demonstrou que essas linhagens pertencem ao gênero Bacillus (Bacillus sp. L26 and Bacillus sp. L30). Análises de GC-MS mostraram que a linhagem L30 foi mais eficiente em degradar n-alcanos (C10-C27) presentes no diesel, após 7 dias de cultivo em meio mineral. Ambas as linhagens produziram biossurfactantes e apresentaram atividade emulsificante, especialmente a linhagem L30. O gene alcano hidroxilase (grupo III), o qual é importante para degradação de alcanos, foram detectados nas linhagens. Como resultado, este estudo indicou que essas linhagens bacterianas podem ser promissoras se aplicadas em processos de biorremediação.

Hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos: uma revisão sobre metodologias de análise e níveis de contaminação em produtos cárneos defumados / Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: a review on the methodologies of the analysis and the levels of contamination in smoked meat products

A defumação é um processo rotineiramente empregado nos alimentos como técnica de conservação, e uma maneira de proporcionar as características sensoriais específicas. Entretanto, o processo pode levar à formação de hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos (HPAs), que são compostos com dois ou mais anéis aromáticos condensados, alguns deles considerados carcinogênicos, mutagênicos e teratogênicos. Estudos em diversos países indicam que a contaminação de produtos cárneos defumados por diferentes HPAs é elevada e frequente, e desta maneira pode apresentar risco à saúde humana. O Brasil tem sido um dos maiores consumidores de carne no mundo, com tendência de aumentar o consumo de alimentos processados, e não é conhecida a real exposição da população aos HPAs pela ingestão de produtos cárneos defumados. Não há dados nacionais recentes quanto à contaminação destes alimentos com estes produtos. Considerando este panorama, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo realizar a revisão das principais metodologias analíticas, dos aspectos regulatórios e dos níveis de HPAs detectados em produtos cárneos defumados. Ademais, são apresentadas as maneiras de reduzir a contaminação dos alimentos por estes compostos. (AU)

Smoking is a common process employed in food as a conservation technique, as well as to provide the specific sensory characteristics. However, the process can lead to the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are composed of two or more fused aromatic rings, and some of them are considered carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic. Studies conducted in several countries indicate that contamination of smoked meat products by different PAHs is high and frequent, and it may cause a risk to human health. Although Brazil has been one of the largest consumers of meat in the world, with a trend to increase the consumption of processed foods, it has not known the real population exposure to PAHs by consuming the smoked meat products. There is no recent national data on the contamination of these foods. Considering this scenario, this study aimed at reviewing the main analytical methodologies, the regulatory aspects and the levels of PAHs found in the smoked meat products. In addition, the forms to reduce the contamination by these compounds are presented. (AU)

Petroleum contamination and bioaugmentation in bacterial rhizosphere communities from Avicennia schaueriana

ABSTRACT Anthropogenic activity, such as accidental oil spills, are typical sources of urban mangrove pollution that may affect mangrove bacterial communities as well as their mobile genetic elements. To evaluate remediation strategies, we followed over the time the effects of a petroleum hydrocarbon degrading consortium inoculated on mangrove tree Avicennia schaueriana against artificial petroleum contamination in a phytoremediation greenhouse experiment. Interestingly, despite plant protection due to the inoculation, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene fragments amplified from the total community DNA indicated that the different treatments did not significantly affect the bacterial community composition. However, while the bacterial community was rather stable, pronounced shifts were observed in the abundance of bacteria carrying plasmids. A PCR-Southern blot hybridization analysis indicated an increase in the abundance of IncP-9 catabolic plasmids. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of naphthalene dioxygenase (ndo) genes amplified from cDNA (RNA) indicated the dominance of a specific ndo gene in the inoculated petroleum amendment treatment. The petroleum hydrocarbon degrading consortium characterization indicated the prevalence of bacteria assigned to Pseudomonas spp., Comamonas spp. and Ochrobactrum spp. IncP-9 plasmids were detected for the first time in Comamonas sp. and Ochrobactrum spp., which is a novelty of this study.

Herramientas manuales vibrátiles y guantes anti-vibrátiles / Vibrating hand tools and anti-vibrating gloves

OBJETIVO: Determinar el impacto causado por el tipo de herramienta y tipo de guante sobre la transmisibilidad de la vibración mano-brazo. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un diseño experimental a trabajadores del sector de hidrocarburos, con el objetivo de identificar la transmisibilidad global de los guantes en diferentes actividades. Las mediciones se realizaron a través de dos acelerómetros: uno instalado en la máquina y otro en la palma de la mano. La transmisibilidad fue calculada en el rango de frecuencias 0-2 kHz, para cinco tipos de herramientas y 3 tipos de guantes. Finalmente, se compararon los tiempos de exposición a los que puede estar expuesto el trabajador con el uso de los guantes. RESULTADOS: Se identificó la efectividad de los guantes para proteger a los operarios, permitiéndoles trabajar un mayor número de horas por día. El análisis estadístico evidencia que la variable tipo de herramienta tiene un efecto significativo sobre la transmisibilidad, mientras que el tipo de guante no presenta efecto estadístico alguno. El estudio presenta los porcentajes de aumento de tiempos de exposición y el estudio de las transmisibilidades. CONCLUSIONES: Los tres tipos de guantes evaluados mostraron tener un desempeño eficaz como atenuadores de la vibración. El aumento del tiempo de exposición permitido al usar guantes es muy significativo para todas las herramientas.

OBJECTIVE: Determine the impact caused by the type of tool and type of glove on the transmissibility of the hand-arm vibration. METHODS: An experimental design was carried out for workers in the hydrocarbon sector, in order to identify the global transmissibility of gloves in different activities. The measurements were made through two accelerometers: one installed in the machine and the other in the palm of the hand. The transmissibility was calculated in the fre quency range 0-2 kHz, for five types of tools and 3 types of gloves. Finally, the exposure times to which the worker may be exposed with the use of gloves were compared. RESULTS: The effectiveness of the gloves was identified to protect the workers, allowing them to work a greater number of hours per day. The statistical analysis shows that the variable type of tool has a significant effect on transmissibility, while the type of glove does not have any statistical effect. The study presents the percentages of increase in exposure times and the study of transmissibilities. CONCLUSIONS: The three types of gloves evaluated showed an effec tive performance as vibration attenuators. The increase of the expo sure time allowed when wearing gloves is very significant for all tools.

Indagación exploratoria in vitro de la capacidad degradadora de la cepa comercial Pleurotus ostreatus sobre dos concentraciones de petróleo crudo / In vitro inquiry on two concentrations of crude oil degradation ability by a commercial strain of Pleurotus ostreatus

Resumen Objetivo. Evaluar la potencial actividad degradadora de la cepa comercial Pleurotus ostreatus sobre petróleo crudo como única fuente de carbono. Método. Se empleó un inóculo de 10mg del hongo en medio mínimo líquido de sales con volúmenes de 0,5% y 1% de petróleo en agitación constante durante 21 días a temperatura ambiente, registrando peso seco a los 0, 8,15 y 21 días. Resultados. Se obtuvo un máximo de biomasa 45mg para 0,5% de 39mg para 1%. Esto sugiere que el hongo sufre una adaptación fisiológica para utilizar el petróleo crudo para su crecimiento.

Abstract Objectives. To evaluate the potential crude oil-degrading activity of Pleurotus ostreatus using it as the sole source of carbon and energy for growth. Methods. An inoculum of 10 mg of the fungus in the minimal liquid of salt with 0.5% or 1% crude oil in constant agitation for 21 days was used. Dry weight at 0, 8, 15 and 21 days was obtained. Results. The maximum biomass with a value of 45mg of 0.5% oil treatment registered while the 1% oil treatment reached a value of 39mg. These values suggest physiological adaptation of the fungus to crude oil as its sole carbon source for growth.

Presence of Eisenia fetida enhanced phytoremediation of anthracene by Lolium perenne / Presença de Eisenia fetida aumentou a fitorremediação do antraceno por Lolium perene

The efficiency of co-application of Eisenia fetida and ryegrass was evaluated in a process called earthworm-assisted phytoremediation. Anthracene was used as a model compound for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The experiments were conducted on a loamy soil in greenhouse conditions. At the end of the experiment, the soil samples were analyzed for residual anthracene by HPLC. Results showed that, phytoremediation using ryegrass could remove 81% of anthracene; however, the rate of removal was 92% when E. fetida was applied simultaneously. E. fetida alone could also remove the initial concentration of anthracene by 40%. Although ryegrass itself could remove anthracene significantly, the employment of earthworm, together with plant was more efficient than each of them individually. The application of E. fetida could also enhance the growth parameters of ryegrass significantly. In comparison to the control, the presence of E. fetida increased plant dry weight (7.8%), root length (47%), shoots length (32%), and root volume (12%). The number of live earthworms was also increased in the planted pots, indicating the helpfulness of the plant for survival of the earthworm in the PAH-contaminated soil. Although plant and earthworm use completely different mechanisms for anthracene degradation, they improve efficiency and survival of the three-component-system.

A eficiência da co-aplicação de Eisenia fetida e azevém foi avaliada em um processo denominado fitorremediação assistida por minhocas. O antraceno foi usado como um composto modelo para hidrocarbonetos aromáticos policíclicos (PAHs). Os experimentos foram conduzidos em um solo argiloso em condições de estufa. No final da experiência, as amostras de solo foram analisadas quanto ao antraceno residual por HPLC. Os resultados mostraram que, a fitorremediação com azevém pode remover 81% do antraceno; no entanto, a taxa de remoção foi de 92% quando E. fetida foi aplicada simultaneamente. E. fetida sozinha também foi capaz de remover a concentração inicial de antraceno em 40%. Embora o próprio azevém pudesse remover significativamente o antraceno, o emprego da minhoca, juntamente com a planta, foi mais eficiente do que cada um deles individualmente. A aplicação de E. fetida também pode melhorar significativamente os parâmetros de crescimento do azevém. Em comparação com o controle, a presença de E. fetida aumentou o peso seco da planta (7,8%), o comprimento da raiz (47%), o comprimento da parte aérea (32%) e o volume radicular (12%). O número de minhocas vivas também aumentou nos vasos plantados, indicando a utilidade da planta para a sobrevivência da minhoca no solo contaminado com PAH. Embora plantas e minhocas usem mecanismos completamente diferentes para a degradação do antraceno, eles melhoram a eficiência e a sobrevivência do sistema de três componentes.

Critérios para identificação de veículos leves do ciclo Otto com elevadas emissões, utilizando dispositivo de sensoriamento remoto / Criteria for identification of Otto cycle light duty vehicles with high emissions, using remote sensing device

Ocorrem anualmente aproximadamente 600.000 mortes de crianças com até cinco anos, no mundo. Pneumonia é a principal causa e mais de 50 por cento destas mortes são atribuídas à poluição do ar. Ela ainda é responsável pelo aumento do risco de infecções respiratórias, asma, condições neonatais adversas e anomalias congênitas. A poluição do ar também afeta o desenvolvimento cognitivo de crianças e induz o desenvolvimento de doenças crônicas na idade adulta. Entre 70 e 80 por cento da poluição do ar em nações em desenvolvimento são de origem veicular. Objetivando definir critérios baseados em medições com sensoriamento remoto para identificação de veículos automotores leves do ciclo Otto com elevadas emissões de monóxido de carbono, hidrocarbonetos ou óxido nítrico, foram utilizados os dados secundários gerados pela Remote Sensing do Brasil Ltda dos quais foram selecionados 179.142 veículos em uso da frota circulante da cidade de São Paulo com medições completas dos índices de emissão dos poluentes monóxido de carbono (CO), hidrocarbonetos (HC) e óxido nítrico (NO) e ainda velocidade e aceleração do veículo quando da medição e inclinação da pista no local escolhido para as medições. Foram ajustados modelos estatísticos da classe Generalised Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape (GAMLSS) visando testar a influência do Tipo de Combustível, da Potência Específica do Veículo (VSP) e das Fases do Programa de Controle da Poluição do Ar por Veículos Automotores (Proconve) sobre as emissões de CO, HC e NO, medidos usando o Remote Sensing Device (RSD). As emissões foram então conceitualmente subdivididas em dois grupos: veículos com emissões normais e com emissões anormais, isso para os diversos poluentes em veículos das Fases L3, L4 e L5 que são as fases de interesse para o gerenciamento da qualidade do ar. Variáveis latentes foram definidas para indicarem as distribuições dos veículos em relação a esses grupos e Fases. O algoritmo Expectation-Maximization (EM) foi empregado para identificação dos parâmetros das distribuições. Para determinação dos valores associados aos veículos com elevadas emissões de determinado poluente e fase do Proconve, foi empregado o percentil 98 por cento da distribuição ajustada para os veículos dos grupos com emissões normais. Assim sendo, o Erro de Tipo I foi fixado em 2 por cento sendo que esse percentual foi estabelecido considerando o Erro de Tipo II, de apontar o veículo como tendo emissão normal quando na realidade trata-se de um high emitter. Através desta abordagem foram determinados os valores indicativos de veículos com elevadas emissões segundo o poluente e a Fase do Proconve. Os resultados apontaram decréscimo nas emissões de CO e de HC segundo as Fases do Proconve. Para o NO, o comportamento das emissões não acompanhou as reduções impostas pelas Fases do Proconve. Foi constatado que os veículos de 2005 a 2009, movidos exclusivamente a gasool, foram os que apresentaram as maiores emissões de NO. Diversos possíveis fatores causadores deste comportamento diferenciado do NO foram discutidos neste trabalho. Os dados de qualidade do ar detectaram aumento significativo nas concentrações ambientais de Óxidos de Nitrogênio (NOx) em 2007, quando foi monitorado este parâmetro no período de inverno, o que pode indicar a influência dos high emitters, mas necessita de estudos mais aprofundados para confirmação da causa deste comportamento

Approximately 600,000 deaths occur worldwide annually for children up to five years of age. Pneumonia is the leading cause and more than 50 per cent of these deaths are attributed to air pollution. It is still responsible for increased risk of respiratory infections, asthma, adverse neonatal conditions and congenital anomalies. Air pollution also affects the cognitive development of children and induces future development of chronic diseases in adulthood. In order to define criteria based on remote sensing measurements to identify Otto cycle light duty vehicles (LDV) with high emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons or nitric oxide it was used secondary data produced by Remote Sensing do Brasil Ltda, from which 179,142 inuse vehicles were selected, that belongs to the city of São Paulos current fleet. All those vehicles had complete measurements of emission of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC) and nitric oxide (NO), and also speed and acceleration of the vehicle during measurements, and slope of the track at the place chosen for the measurements. Statistical models of the Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape (GAMLSS) class were adjusted to test the influence of fuel type, Vehicle Specific Power (VSP) and of the Brazilian Vehicle Emission Control Program [Proconve] phases on CO, HC and NO emissions, measured using Remote Sensing Device (RSD). The emissions were then conceptually subdivided into two groups: vehicles with normal and abnormal emission, for the various pollutants in vehicles of L3, L4 and L5 phases of Proconve, which were of interest for the air quality management. Latent variables were defined to indicate the distribution of vehicles in relation to those groups and phases. The algorithm Expectation Maximization (EM) was employed to identify all parameters of the distributions. We use the 98 per cent percentiles of the statistical distribution set, for vehicles of groups with normal emissions to determine the limit values for vehicles with high emissions of pollutants and Proconve Phase. Therefore, the Type I Error was set at 2 per cent and this percentage was established considering the Type II Error to point the vehicle as having normal emission when in fact it is a high emitter. Through this approach, the indicative values of vehicles with high emissions according to the pollutant and the Proconve Phase were determined. Results of emissions measured with the RSD technique indicated a decrease in CO and HC emissions according to the Proconve Phase. For the NO, the emissions behavior did not follow the reductions imposed by the Proconve Phases. It was found that newer vehicles year model from 2005 to 2009 exclusively gasohol-powered vehicles, were the ones that presented the highest NO emissions. Several possible causative factors of this differential behavior of NO were discussed in this study. A significant increase in the environmental concentrations of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) was detected in 2007, when this parameter was monitored in the winter period. This may indicate the influence of the high emitter vehicles, but it requires a more in-depth cause-effect study for confirmation of this behavio

Influence of Cell Surface Hydrophobicity on Adhesion and Biofilm Formation in Candida albicans and Several Bacterial Species

The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation of cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) and biofilm formation or adhesion in Candida albicans (C. albicans) and several pathogenic bacteria. All of C. albicans (n=82) and 7 bacterial species (Escherichia coli, n=25; Klebsiella pneumoniae, n=33; Morganella morganii, n=21; Proteus mirabilis, n=33; Proteus vulgaris, n=12; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, n=31; Staphylococcus aureus, n=31) were isolated clinically. CSH was quantified with microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons. Biofilm formation was determined by tetrazolium salt reduction assay. Adhesion assay was performed by counting colonies after culture the microbes adhered to HeLa cells. Although high CSH-expressing bacterial species showed greater adherence to HeLa cells and larger amounts of biofilm formation on polystyrene, the significant relationships within same species were not shown. In C. albicans, however, strong positive correlations were observed between CSH and biofilm formation (r =0.708; p < 0.05) or cell adhesion (r =0.509; p < 0.05). These results suggest that hydrophobic force of bacteria may play a minor role in adhesion and biofilm formation, but CSH of C. albicans may be an important factor for adherence on surface and biofilm forming process.

Variation analysis of bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoates production using saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons

ABSTRACT Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are efficient, renewable and environment friendly polymeric esters. These polymers are synthesized by a variety of microbes under stress conditions. This study was carried out to check the suitability of waste frying oil in comparison to other oils for economical bioplastic production. Six bacterial strains were isolated and identified as Bacillus cereus (KF270349), Klebsiella pneumoniae (KF270350), Bacillus subtilis (KF270351), Brevibacterium halotolerance (KF270352), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (KF270353), and Stenotrophomonas rhizoposid (KF270354) by ribotyping. All strains were PHA producers so were selected for PHA synthesis using four different carbon sources, i.e., waste frying oil, canola oil, diesel and glucose. Extraction of PHA was carried out using sodium hypochlorite method and maximum amount was detected after 72 h in all cases. P. aeruginosa led to maximum PHA production after 72 h at 37 °C and 100 rpm using waste frying oil that was 53.2% PHA in comparison with glucose 37.8% and cooking oil 34.4%. B. cereus produced 40% PHA using glucose as carbon source which was high when compared against other strains. A significantly lesser amount of PHA was recorded with diesel as a carbon source for all strains. Sharp Infrared peaks around 1740-1750 cm-1 were present in Fourier Transform Infrared spectra that correspond to exact position for PHA. The use of waste oils and production of poly-3hydroxybutyrate-co-3hydroxyvalerate (3HB-co-3HV) by strains used in this study is a good aspect to consider for future prospects as this type of polymer has better properties as compared to PHBs.

Draft genome analysis of Dietzia sp. 111N12-1, isolated from the South China Sea with bioremediation activity

Abstract Dietzia sp. 111N12-1, isolated from the seawater of South China Sea, shows strong petroleum hydrocarbons degradation activity. Here, we report the draft sequence of approximately 3.7-Mbp genome of this strain. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first genome sequence of Dietzia strain isolated from the sea. The genome sequence may provide fundamental molecular information on elucidating the metabolic pathway of hydrocarbons degradation in this strain.

Changes in the microbial community during bioremediation of gasoline-contaminated soil

Abstract We aimed to verify the changes in the microbial community during bioremediation of gasoline-contaminated soil. Microbial inoculants were produced from successive additions of gasoline to municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) previously fertilized with nitrogen-phosphorous. To obtain Inoculant A, fertilized MSWC was amended with gasoline every 3 days during 18 days. Inoculant B received the same application, but at every 6 days. Inoculant C included MSWC fertilized with N–P, but no gasoline. The inoculants were applied to gasoline-contaminated soil at 10, 30, or 50 g/kg. Mineralization of gasoline hydrocarbons in soil was evaluated by respirometric analysis. The viability of the inoculants was evaluated after 103 days of storage under refrigeration or room temperature. The relative proportions of microbial groups in the inoculants and soil were evaluated by FAME. The dose of 50 g/kg of inoculants A and B led to the largest CO2 emission from soil. CO2 emissions in treatments with inoculant C were inversely proportional to the dose of inoculant. Heterotrophic bacterial counts were greater in soil treated with inoculants A and B. The application of inoculants decreased the proportion of actinobacteria and increased of Gram-negative bacteria. Decline in the density of heterotrophic bacteria in inoculants occurred after storage. This reduction was bigger in inoculants stored at room temperature. The application of stored inoculants in gasoline-contaminated soil resulted in a CO2 emission twice bigger than that observed in uninoculated soil. We concluded that MSWC is an effective material for the production of microbial inoculants for the bioremediation of gasoline-contaminated soil.

Posible transmisión oral de la enfermedad de Chagas en trabajadores del sector de los hidrocarburos en Casanare, Colombia, 2014 / Possible oral transmission of Chagas disease among hydrocarbons sector workers in Casanare, Colombia, 2014

RESUMEN Introducción. Trypanosoma cruzi, agente etiológico de la enfermedad de Chagas, puede transmitirse por vía oral tras la ingestión de alimentos o bebidas contaminadas. En la semana epidemiológica 14 del 2014, se notificaron dos casos de enfermedad aguda de Chagas en Paz de Ariporo, Casanare, entre trabajadores del sector de los hidrocarburos, episodio que motivó la investigación epidemiológica en el área. Objetivo. Caracterizar la población afectada, establecer medidas de control y confirmar el brote. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo una investigación de brote con los siguientes componentes: a) búsqueda de personas sintomáticas (cuadro clínico sugerente de enfermedad de Chagas según la definición de caso), para remitirlas a atención médica; b) aplicación de una encuesta entomológica en 192 de 197 viviendas; c) inspección sanitaria y análisis microbiológico de muestras de alimentos, y d) estudio de reservorios. La organización y el análisis de los datos se hicieron mediante estadística descriptiva con el programa Epi-Info 7.1.5. Asimismo, se establecieron los índices de infestación en el domicilio y el peridomicilio. Resultados. Se registraron 552 personas expuestas y se confirmaron por laboratorio 40 casos (7,2 %); siete casos se dieron en mujeres (17,5 %) y 33 en hombres (82,5%), es decir, en una relación de 1:5. La edad promedio fue de 39,1 (± 10,8) años, la tasa de ataque, de 7,2 %, y la letalidad, de 5 % (2/40). Los signos y síntomas incluyeron fiebre en el 100 % de los casos, cefalea en el 80 %, mialgias y artralgias en el 65 %, edema facial en el 55 %, y dolor abdominal en el 37,5 %. El tiempo promedio de incubación fue de 17 (3-21) días. El índice de infestación de Rhodnius prolixus fue de 3,3 % en el domicilio y de 2,2 % en el peridomicilio. En los cinco restaurantes inspeccionados, se encontraron condiciones sanitarias deficientes y alimentos con niveles de contaminación microbiológica inaceptables. Por último, un perro y dos zarigüeyas fueron positivos para los anticuerpos IgG en la prueba ELISA. Conclusiones. Mediante el análisis de las características epidemiológicas, ambientales y sanitarias, se confirmó un brote agudo de enfermedad de Chagas por exposición ocupacional y de posible transmisión oral, que podría ser el de mayor proporción reportado hasta la fecha en Colombia.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent for Chagas disease, can be transmitted by oral intake of contaminated food or drinks. During epidemiological week 14 of 2014, two cases of acute Chagas disease were notified among hydrocarbons sector workers in Paz de Ariporo, Casanare. Objective: To characterize the affected population, to establish control and prevention measures and to confirm the outbreak. Materials and methods: We conducted an outbreak investigation that included the following components: a) Search for symptomatic people compatible with Chagas disease according to the case definition for their referral to medical services; b) entomological survey (192/197 houses); c) sanitary inspection and microbiological analysis of food samples; and d) study of reservoirs. Data management and analysis were done with Epi-Info 7.1.5 using descriptive statistics. We also calculated intradomicile and peridomicile triatomine infestation indexes. Results: We detected 552 exposed people; 40 had the disease (7.2%), of whom seven were women (17,5%) and 33, men (82.5%), i.e., a male-female ratio of 5:1. The mean age was 39.1 ± 10.8 years; the attack rate was 7.2% and lethality, 5% (2/40). Symptoms included fever (100% of cases), headache (80%), myalgia and arthralgia (65%), facial edema (55%), and abdominal pain (37.5%). The mean incubation time was 17 days (range: 3-21). Rhodnius prolixus domiciliary infestation index was 3.3 % and 2.2% in the peridomicile. In the five restaurants inspected sanitary conditions were deficient and food samples were microbiologically non-conforming. We found a dog and two opossums positive for IgG antibodies by ELISA. Conclusions: Environmental, sanitary and epidemiological conditions at the place confirmed an outbreak of Chagas diseases related to occupational exposure, possibly by oral transmission, which may be the largest to date in Colombia.

Uso de Leersia hexandra (Poaceae) en la fitorremediación de suelos contaminados con petróleo fresco e intemperizado / Use of Leersia hexandra (Poaceae) for soil phytoremediation in soils contaminated with fresh and weathered oil

ResumenLa industria petrolera ha generado derrames crónicos de petróleo y su acumulación en Gleysoles en zonas anegadas en el estado de Tabasco, en el sureste de México. El anegamiento es un factor que limita el uso de tecnologías de remediación por el alto costo y los bajos niveles de degradación del petróleo, sin embargo, Leersia hexandra Sw. es un pasto que crece en estas zonas contaminadas con petróleo intemperizado. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la densidad de bacterias, producción de biomasa vegetal y fitorremediación de L.hexandra en suelo contaminado con petróleos fresco e intemperizado, bajo condiciones experimentales de anegamiento. Se realizaron dos experimentos (E1 y E2) en un túnel de plástico. El E1 se basó en ocho dosis: 6 000, 10 000, 30 000, 60 000, 90 000, 120 000, 150 000 y 180 000 mg kg-1 base seca (b.s.) de hidrocarburos totales de petróleo fresco (HTPF), y en el E2 se evaluaron cinco dosis: 14 173, 28 400, 50 598, 75 492 y 112 142 mg kg-1 b. s. de hidrocarburos totales de petróleo intemperizado (HTPI), con ocho repeticiones en cada experimento, además se utilizó un testigo con 2 607 mg kg-1 b. s. de HTP de origen biogénico. Las variables evaluadas a los tres y seis meses fueron 1) densidad microbiana de las bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno de vida libre totales (BFN), del grupo Azospirillum (AZP) y Azotobacter (AZT), por cuenta viable en placa seriada; 2) producción de materia seca total (MS), se cuantificó por el peso seco por gravimetría, y 3) el porcentaje de descontaminación de los hidrocarburos (DSC) por extracción en equipo soxhlet. En suelos con HTPF, la población de BFN, AZP y AZT se estimuló hasta cinco veces más que el tratamiento testigo a los tres y seis meses; sin embargo, concentraciones de 150 000 y 180 000 mg kg-1 b. s. inhibieron entre un 70 y 89 % la densidad bacteriana. A su vez, en suelos con PI, la inhibición se registró hasta en un 90 %, a excepción del tratamiento con 14 173 mg kg-1 b. s., el cual estimuló las BNF y AZT en 2 y 0.10 veces más que testigo, respectivamente. La producción de MS fue continua en los experimentos hasta los seis meses, con valores de 63 y 89 g en PF y PI, respectivamente; sin diferencias significativas con el testigo (p ≤ 0.05). El DSC alcanzó valores del 66 % al 87 % en HTPF como HTPI a los seis meses, respectivamente. Estos resultados demuestran la habilidad del L. hexandra para desarrollar una rizósfera con alta densidad de BFN, producir biomasa vegetal y fitorremediar Gleysoles con petróleo fresco e intemperizado en ambientes tropicales inundados.

Abstract:The oil industry has generated chronic oil spills and their accumulation in wetlands of the state of Tabasco, in Southeastern Mexico. Waterlogging is a factor that limits the use of remediation technologies because of its high cost and low levels of oil degradation. However, Leersia hexandra is a grass that grows in these contaminated areas with weathered oil. The aim of the study was to evaluate the bacteria density, plant biomass production and phytoremediation of L. hexandra in contaminated soil. For this, two experiments in plastic tunnel were performed with fresh (E1) and weathered petroleum (E2) under waterlogging experimental conditions. The E1 was based on eight doses: 6 000, 10 000, 30 000, 60 000, 90 000, 120 000, 150 000 and 180 000 mg.kg-1 dry basis (d. b.) of total petroleum hydrocarbons fresh (TPH-F), and the E2, that evaluated five doses: 14 173, 28 400, 50 598, 75 492 and 112 142 mg. kg-1 d. b. of total petroleum hydrocarbons weathered (TPH-W); a control treatment with 2 607 mg.kg-1 d. b. was used. Each experiment, with eight replicates per treatment, evaluated after three and six months: a) microbial density of total free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria (NFB) of Azospirillum (AZP) and Azotobacter group (AZT), for viable count in serial plate; b) dry matter production (DMP), quantified gravimetrically as dry weight of L. hexandra; and c) the decontamination percentage of hydrocarbons (PDH) by Soxhlet extraction. In soil with TPH-F, the NFB, AZP y AZT populations were stimulated five times more than the control both at the three and six months; however, concentrations of 150 000 and 180 000 mg.kg-1 d. b. inhibited the bacterial density between 70 and 89 %. Likewise, in soil with TPH-W, the FNB, AZP and AZT inhibitions were 90 %, with the exception of the 14 173 mg.kg-1 d. b. treatment, which stimulated the NFB and AZT in 2 and 0.10 times more than the control, respectively. The DMP was continued at the six months in the experiments, with values of 63 and 89 g in fresh and weathered petroleum, respectively; had no significant differences with the control (p≤0.05). The PDH reached values of 66 to 87 % both TPH-F and TPH-W at six months, respectively. These results demonstrated the ability the L. hexandra rhizosphere to stimulate the high NFB density, vegetal biomass production and phytoremediation of contaminated soils (with fresh and weathered petroleum), in a tropical waterlogging environment. Rev. Biol. Trop. 65 (1): 21-30. Epub 2017 March 01.

Caracterização do perfil auditivo de frentistas de postos de combustível / Characterization of hearing profile of gas station attendants

RESUMO Introdução Pesquisas voltadas para as populações com baixas exposições a solventes, ou exposições dentro dos níveis de tolerância permitidos em âmbito ocupacional ainda são restritas. Objetivo Caracterizar o perfil auditivo de frentistas de postos de combustíveis. Métodos Estudo transversal, constituído por dois grupos, pareados por gênero e idade: Grupo Controle - 23 indivíduos sem exposição a ruído ou agentes químicos; Grupo Experimental - 21 frentistas de postos de combustíveis. Foi realizada avaliação audiológica, composta por audiometria tonal liminar, logoaudiometria e medidas de imitância acústica. A análise estatística utilizou cálculo de média, desvio padrão, valor mínimo e máximo, teste Qui-quadrado e coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Resultados Foram verificadas alterações auditivas nos frentistas, caracterizadas por comprometimento no sistema auditivo periférico, sugerindo ação tóxica da exposição a combustíveis. Houve correlação entre idade e tempo de exposição a solvente. Na comparação entre os grupos, o reflexo acústico demonstrou maior número de alterações no grupo experimental, com diferença para os reflexos acústicos ipsilaterais da orelha direita e contralaterais da orelha esquerda. Conclusão Não houve diferença entre os grupos para os limiares auditivos, porém, a diferença verificada nos reflexos acústicos ipsilaterais e contralaterais no grupo experimental sugere comprometimento retrococlear. Diante das evidências observadas neste estudo, considera-se relevante incluir a pesquisa do reflexo acústico na avaliação auditiva dos frentistas, bem como a integração desta categoria profissional aos programas de prevenção de perda auditiva.

ABSTRACT Introduction Researches into populations with low solvent exposures, or exposures within tolerance levels allowed in the occupational field are still restricted. Purpose To characterize the hearing profile of gas station attendants. Methods Cross-sectional study, constituted of two groups, matched by gender and age: Control Group - 23 subjects without exposure to noise or chemicals; Experimental Group - 21 gas station attendants. An audiological evaluation was performed, composed by pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and acoustic impedance tests. The statistical analysis used average calculation, standard deviation, minimum and maximum value; Chi-square Test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The significance level was 5%. Results Hearing loss was verified in gas station attendants characterized by impairment of the peripheral auditory system, suggesting toxic effects of exposure to fuels. There was a correlation between age and solvent exposure time. Comparing the groups, the acoustic reflex showed more alterations in the experimental group, with a difference for the ipsilateral acoustic reflexes of the right ear and contralateral ones of the left ear. Conclusion There was no difference between the groups for the hearing thresholds; however, the difference observed in the ipsilateral and contralateral acoustic reflexes in the experimental group suggests retrocochlear impairment. Due to the evidence observed in this study, it is considered relevant to include the acoustic reflex research in the auditory evaluation of the gas station attendants, as well as the integration of this professional category into hearing loss prevention programs.

The Effect of 1-Propanol on the Rotational Mobility of n-(9-Anthroyloxy) stearic acid in Outer Monolayers of Neuronal and Model Membranes

The aim of this study was to provide a basis for the molecular mechanism underlying the pharmacological action of ethanol. We studied the effects of 1-propanol on the location of n-(9-anthroyloxy)palmitic acid or stearic acid (n-AS) within the phospholipids of synaptosomal plasma membrane vesicles (SPMV). The SPMV were isolated from the bovine cerebral cortex and liposomes of total lipids (SPMVTL) and phospholipids (SPMVPL). 1-Propanol increased the rotational mobility of inner hydrocarbons, while decreasing the mobility of membrane interface, in native and model membranes. The degree of rotational mobility varied with the number of carbon atoms at positions 16, 12, 9, 6 and 2 in the aliphatic chain of phospholipids in the neuronal and model membranes. The sensitivity of increasing or decreasing rotational mobility of hydrocarbon interior or surface by 1-propanol varied with the neuronal and model membranes in the following order: SPMV, SPMVPL and SPMVTL.

Complicaciones pulmonares de la neumonía química: A propósito de un caso / Pulmonary complications of chemical pneumonía; a case report

La aspiración de hidrocarburos puede causar un daño significativo a los pulmones al inducir una respuesta inflamatoria, alveolitis exudativa hemorrágica y pérdida de la función del tensioactivo pulmonar. El efecto secundario más grave de la aspiración de hidrocarburos es la neumonía por aspiración. Anteriormente se han notificado casos de neumotórax, neumatocele, síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA), absceso pulmonar, fístula broncopleural, derrame pleural bilateral hemorrágico y pioneumotórax. En este artículo presentamos el caso de un paciente hospitalizado debido a neumonía por aspiración que desarrolló pleuritis y neumotórax después de ingerir disolvente para pintura. Se presenta este caso ya que raramente se ha informado en niños como causa de complicaciones pulmonares diferentes. Es necesario evaluar integralmente a los pacientes con complicaciones asociadas a la intoxicación por hidrocarburos. Debe evitarse el alta hospitalaria temprana de los pacientes, quienes deben ser controlados durante, al menos, 48 horas, aunque no tengan síntomas respiratorios. Debe considerarse que los pacientes con neumonía química pueden tener complicaciones pulmonares graves.

Hydrocarbon aspiration (HA) can cause significant lung disease by inducing an inflammatory response, hemorrhagic exudative alveolitis, and loss of surfactant function. The most serious side effect of HA is aspiration pneumonia. Pneumothorax, pneumatocele, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary abscess, bronchopleural fistula, bilateral hemorrhagic pleural effusion and pyopneumothorax were previously reported. Hereby we report a patient hospitalized due to aspiration pneumonia who developed pleurisy and pneumothorax after drinking paint thinner. It is presented as it was seldom reported in children to cause distinct pulmonary complications. Patients with complaints associated withhydrocarbon poisoning must be fully evaluated. They must not be discharged from the hospital early and must be followed for at least 48 hours even if they don't have respiratory symptoms. It should be kept in mind that severe pulmonary complications can develop in patients with chemical pneumonia.