Oxidative stress is involved in LLLT mechanism of action on skin healing in rats

The skin injury healing process involves the main phases of homoeostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The present study aimed to analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on hematological dynamics, oxidative stress markers, and its relation with tissue healing following skin injury. Wistar rats were divided into control, sham, skin injury, and skin injury LLLT. The biochemical and morphological analyses were performed in the inflammatory (1 and 3 days) and regenerative phases (7, 14, and 21 days) following injury. The skin injury was performed in the dorsal region, between the intrascapular lines, using a surgical punch. LLLT (Al-Ga-In-P, λ=660 nm, energy density of 20 J/cm2, 30 mW power, and a time of 40 s) was applied at the area immediately after injury and on every following day according to the experimental subgroups. LLLT maintained hematocrit and hemoglobin levels until the 3rd day of treatment. Surprisingly, LLLT increased total leukocytes levels compared to control until the 3rd day. The effects of LLLT on mitochondrial activity were demonstrated by the significant increase in MTT levels in both inflammatory and regenerative phases (from the 1st to the 7th day), but only when associated with skin injury. The results indicated that LLLT modulated the inflammatory response intensity and accelerated skin tissue healing by a mechanism that involved oxidative damage reduction mostly at early stages of skin healing (inflammatory phase).

Quality control in the different stages of producing red blood cell concentrate from dogs / Controle de qualidade nas diferentes etapas de produção do concentrado de hemácias em cães

The objective of this study was to perform a quality control assessment of red blood cells after standardization of the blood production stages. For this purpose, separation of the blood components to obtain red blood cells, the storage of the blood packets and an evaluation of blood quality were performed. The mean (± SD) volume, globular volume, hemoglobin and hemolysis percentage of the red blood cell concentrate were 299.77±30.08mL, 60.87±2.60%, 20.57±0.93g/DL and 0.09±0.07%, respectively. The means (± SD) of the volume, globular volume, total hemoglobin percentage of hemolysis and hemoglobin per unit of packed red blood cells after the storage period (8.83±6.73 days) were 57.55±3.01%, 20.30±0.89 0, 20±0.12%, and 60.90±7.65. The red blood cell packets were within the parameters of quality control established by Health Ministry legislation in humans and allow us to conclude that the standardization of blood production stages involves the selection of donors until the end of storage and is necessary to produce quality red blood cells. Quality control aims to find possible flaws in the procedures to be repaired, increasing transfusion safety.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar o controle de qualidade do concentrado de hemácias após a padronização das etapas de produção do sangue. Para isso, realizou-se separação de hemocomponentes para obtenção de concentrado de hemácias, armazenamento das bolsas de sangue e avaliação da qualidade delas. Os valores médios (± DP) do volume, do volume globular, da hemoglobina e do percentual de hemólise do concentrado de hemácias foram: 299,77±30,08mL, 60,87±2,60%, 20,57±0,93g/DL e 0,09±0,07%, respectivamente. Os valores médios (± DP) do volume globular, da hemoglobina total percentual de hemólise e da hemoglobina por unidade de concentrado de hemácias após o período de armazenamento (8,83±6,73 dias) foram: 57,55±3,01%, 20,30±0,89 0,20±0,12%, 60,90±7,65. As bolsas de concentrado de hemácias ficaram dentro dos parâmetros de controle de qualidade estabelecidos pela legislação do Ministério da Saúde em humanos e possibilitaram concluir que a padronização das etapas de produção do sangue envolve desde a seleção de doadores até o final do armazenamento e é necessária para produzir concentrado de hemácias com qualidade. O controle de qualidade visa encontrar possíveis falhas nos procedimentos para que estas possam ser reparadas, aumentando, assim, a segurança transfusional.(AU)

Cryotherapy: biochemical alterations involved in reduction of damage induced by exhaustive exercise

When exercises are done in intense or exhaustive modes, several acute biochemical mechanisms are triggered. The use of cryotherapy as cold-water immersion is largely used to accelerate the process of muscular recovery based on its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The present study aimed to study the biochemical effects of cold-water immersion treatment in mice submitted to exercise-induced exhaustion. Swiss albino mice were divided into 4 treatment groups: control, cold-water immersion (CWI), swimming exhaustive protocol (SEP), and SEP+CWI. Treatment groups were subdivided into times of analysis: 0, 1, 3, and 5 days. Exhaustion groups were submitted to one SEP session, and the CWI groups submitted to one immersion session (12 min at 12°C) every 24 h. Reactive species production, inflammatory, cell viability, and antioxidant status were assessed. The SEP+CWI group showed a decrease in inflammatory damage biomarkers, and reactive species production, and presented increased cell viability compared to the SEP group. Furthermore, CWI increased acetylcholinesterase activity in the first two sessions. The present study showed that CWI was an effective treatment after exercise-induced muscle damage. It enhanced anti-inflammatory response, decreased reactive species production, increased cell viability, and promoted redox balance, which could decrease the time for the recovery process.

Haematological reference for red-browed parrot (Amazona rhodocorytha, Salvadori, 1890) captive in the Atlantic Forest in Eastern Brazil / Parâmetros hematológicos de papagaios-chauá (Amazona rhodocorytha, Salvatori 1890) em cativeiro

To conduct the survey were used 35 (thirty-five) red-browned parrots (A. rhodocorytha), adults, captive, of both genders and clinically healthy, belonging to the live collection of the Museum of Biology Teacher Mello Leitao, located in Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo, Brazil. Harvests were performed in the morning, by puncture of the brachial vein getting 0.5mL of blood stored in EDTA for a period no longer than 6 hours. Blood smears of fresh material were made at collection, stained using the method of May-Grunwald-Giemsa. Analysis of blood elements was done by cell counting in a mirrored Neubauer chamber using Natt and Herrick solution at a ratio of 2:200 as diluent. For the analysis of the methodology, homoglobinometry cyanide hemoglobin using commercial kits by colorimetry on a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer was used. After completion of the statistical data the following parameters were obtained (mean±standard deviation): Erythrocytes (x106/µl): 2.68±0.56; Hemoglobin (g/dl): 14.27±0.69; Hematocrit (%): 53±3.38; Mean corpuscular volume (fl): 206.7±45.82; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (pg): 56.4±14.46; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (%): 27.5±1.19; Thrombocytes (x3/µl): 25.8 ± 10.5; Total plasma protein (g/dl) 5.4±0.5; Leukocytes (x103/dl): 3.1±2; Heterophile (/uL): 1937±1676; Lymphocytes (/uL): 1144±599; Monocytes (/uL): 24.4 ± 28.2; Basophils (/uL): 42.2±46.2; Eosinophils (/uL): 11.7±19.9. In the relation between males and females, no significant differences were found in any hematological parameter evaluated.(AU)

Para a realização da presente pesquisa, foram utilizados 35 (trinta e cinco) papagaios-chauás (A. rhodocorytha), adultos, cativos, de ambos os sexos e clinicamente saudáveis, pertencentes ao acervo vivo do Museu de Biologia Professor Mello Leitão, localizado em Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas pela manhã, por meio da punção da veia braquial, obtendo-se 0,5mL de sangue, armazenado em EDTA por um período máximo de seis horas. Foram confeccionados esfregaços sanguíneos de material fresco no momento da coleta, posteriormente corados pelo método May-Grunwald-Giensa. A análise dos elementos sanguíneos foi feita por meio de contagem celular em câmara de Neubauer espelhada, utilizando-se como diluente a solução de Natt e Herrick na proporção de 2:200. Para a análise de hemoglobinometria, foi utilizada a metodologia do cianeto de hemoglobina, utilizando-se kits comerciais por colorimetria em um analisador bioquímico semiautomático. Depois de realizada a estatística dos dados, obtiveram-se os seguintes parâmetros (média±desvio-padrão): hemácias (x106/µL): 2,68±0,56; hemoglobina (g/dL): 14,27±0,69; hematócrito (%): 53±3,38; volume corpuscular médio (fL): 206,7±45,82; hemoglobina corpuscular média (pg): 56,4±14,46; concentração hemoglobina corpuscular média (%): 27,5±1,19; trombócitos (x3/µL): 25,8±10,5; proteína plasmática total (g/dL) 5,4±0,5; leucócitos (x103/dL): 3,1±2; heterófilos (/µL): 1937±1676; linfócitos (/µL): 1144±599; monócitos (/µL): 24,4±28,2; basófilos (/µL): 42,2±46,2; eosinófilos (/µL): 11,7±19,9. Na relação entre machos e fêmeas, não foi encontrada diferença estatística relevante em nenhum parâmetro hematológico avaliado.(AU)

The leaf breakdown of Picramnia sellowii (Picramniales: Picramniaceae) as index of anthropic disturbances in tropical streams / Decomposição de folhas de Picramnia sellowii (Picramniales: Picramniaceae) como índice de distúrbio antrópicos em riachos tropicais

Abstract There are few studies in tropical regions exploring the use of leaf breakdown process as a functional tool to assess anthropic disturbance on aquatic ecosystems. We assessed the effects of water pollution due to human activities on the leaf breakdown rate of Picramnia sellowii in streams of the southeastern Brazil. The experiment was carried out for 60 days in three reference streams and three streams impaired by organic pollution and absence of riparian vegetation. Three litter bags were incubated in each stream containing 3 ± 0.05 g of P. sellowii leaves. The reference streams presented higher values of dissolved oxygen and lower values of nutrients, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total impermeable area and water temperature. The leaf breakdown rate (k) differed significantly between the reference (k = 0.014 ± 0.003 d–1) and impaired streams (k = 0.005 ± 0.001 d–1). The leaves incubated in the reference streams contained greater fungal biomass (measured as ergosterol concentration) and abundance of invertebrates, as well as greater presence of shredders, with k values being related to the biomass of these organisms. Overall, there were clear differences between the leaf mass loss in the reference and impaired streams. These results reinforce the negative effect of urbanization on leaf breakdown and fungal and shredder biomass.

Resumo Na região tropical são escassos os estudos que exploram o uso do processo de decomposição foliar como ferramenta funcional para avaliar os efeitos das perturbações antrópicas sobre os ecossistemas aquáticos. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar os efeitos dos impactos antrópicos sobre a taxa de decomposição de Picramnia sellowii em riachos no Sudeste do Brasil. O experimento foi realizado durante 60 dias em três riachos referências e três impactados por poluição orgânica e sem cobertura vegetal. Em cada riacho foram incubados três sacos contendo 3 ± 0,05 g de folhas secas de P. sellowii. Os riachos referência apresentaram maiores concentrações de oxigênio dissolvido e menores valores de nutrientes, turbidez, condutividade elétrica, TIA (área total impermeável) e temperatura. O coeficiente de decomposição (k) diferiu entre os riachos referência (k = 0,014 ± 0,003 d–1) e os impactados (k = 0,005 ± 0,001 d–1). Nas folhas incubadas nos riachos referência foi observada maior biomassa de fungos e abundância de invertebrados, assim como a presença de fragmentadores, estando o k relacionado com a biomassa destes organismos. A decomposição se mostrou sensível para avaliar impactos antrópicos nos ecossistemas aquáticos uma vez que foram observadas nítidas diferenças entre a perda de massa foliar nos riachos referências e impactados. Estes resultados reforçam o efeito negativo da urbanização sobre a decomposição e biomassa de fungos e fragmentadores.

Efeito da categoria reprodutiva sobre a fertilidade de éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino diluído e resfriado a 5ºC por 12 horas de armazenamento / Effect of mare status on fertility of inseminated mares with jackass semen diluted and cooled at 5ºC for 12 hours

Estudou-se o efeito da categoria reprodutiva sobre a fertilidade de éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino diluído, resfriado e armazenado. Os ciclos foram acompanhados por palpação retal e rufiação, sendo as inseminações realizadas às terças, quintas e sábados, a partir da detecção de um folículo de 3,0 a 3,5cm de diâmetro, em um dos ovários, até a ovulação. O sêmen de cinco jumentos da raça Pêga foi diluído nos diluidores de leite em pó desnatado-glicose ou glicina-gema de ovo, resfriado a 5ºC e armazenado por 12 horas, sendo a dose inseminante de 400 x 106 espermatozoides móveis (no momento da diluição final, pré-resfriamento) depositada no corpo do útero. O diagnóstico de gestação foi realizado por meio de palpação transretal, rufiação e ultrassonografia, realizada a cada 14 dias. Os resultados de 195 ciclos, referentes a 141 éguas, foram agrupados de acordo com a categoria reprodutiva a que pertenciam: potra, égua solteira, égua parida e no "cio do potro". As taxas de concepção, ao primeiro ciclo, foram de 60,00%, 48,28%, 75,00% e 47,17% e, após quatro ciclos, de 61,54%, 47,13%, 54,76% e 47,17%, na mesma ordem para as categorias descritas anteriormente. A categoria reprodutiva não teve efeito (P>0,05) sobre a fertilidade das éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino resfriado, sendo as potras, éguas solteiras, éguas paridas e no "cio do potro" igualmente eficientes para o uso na reprodução...

The effect of the mare status on fertility of mares inseminated with diluted, cooled and stored jackass semen, was studied. The cycles were controlled by transrectal palpation and teasing, and mares were inseminated every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, from the detection of a follicle with 3.0 to 3.5cm diameter in one of the ovaries until ovulation. The semen of five Pêga jackasses was diluted in skim milk-glucose or in egg yolk-glycine extender and cooled at 5ºC for 12 hours, with the inseminate dose of 400 x 106 motile spermatozoa (at the moment of the final dilution, before cooling). The inseminations were carried out in the uterine body. Pregnancy was detected using transrectal palpation, teasing and ultrasound exams every 14 days. The results of 195 cycles of 141 mares were grouped according to the mare status: maiden, barren, lactation or in foal heat. Pregnancy rates for the first cycle were 60.00%, 48.28%, 75.00% and 47.17%, and after four cycles, the pregnancy rates/cycle were 61.54%, 47.13%, 54.76% and 47.17%, respectively for maiden, barren, lactation and in foal heat mares (P>0,05). The mare status did not affect pregnancy rates of mares inseminated with diluted and cooled jackass semen and were efficient to use on reproduction...

Efeito da idade sobre a fertilidade e perdas embrionárias de éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino diluído e resfriado a 5ºC por 12 horas de armazenamento / Effect of age on fertility and embryonic loss of mares inseminated with jackass semen diluted and cooled at 5ºC for 12 hours

Estudou-se o efeito da idade sobre a fertilidade de éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino diluído, resfriado e armazenado. Os ciclos foram acompanhados por palpação transretal e rufiação, sendo as inseminações realizadas às terças, quintas e sábados, a partir da detecção de um folículo de 3,0 a 3,5cm de diâmetro, em um dos ovários, até a ovulação. O sêmen de cinco jumentos da raça Pêga foi diluído nos diluidores de leite em pó desnatado-glicose ou glicina-gema de ovo, resfriado a 5ºC e armazenado por 12 horas, sendo a dose inseminante de 400 x 106 espermatozoides móveis (no momento da diluição final, pré-resfriamento). Os resultados de 195 ciclos estrais, referentes a 141 éguas, foram agrupados em classes, de acordo com a idade das éguas: 2,5 a 6 anos, 6,5 a 10 anos, 10,5 a 14 anos e 14,5 a 19 anos. As taxas de concepção, ao primeiro ciclo, foram de 68,42%, 50,75%, 46,88% e 52,17% e, após quatro ciclos, de 69,57%, 47,92%, 46,34% e 45,71% para as faixas etárias de 2,5 a 6, 6,5 a 10, 10,5 a 14 e 14,5 a 19 anos, respectivamente (P>0,05). A idade não teve efeito sobre a fertilidade das éguas inseminadas com sêmen asinino diluído e resfriado...

The effect of the mare age on fertility of mares inseminated with diluted, cooled and stored jackass semen was studied. The females were controlled by transrectal palpation and teasing, and inseminated every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, since the detection of a 3.0 to 3.5cm follicle diameter, in one of the ovaries, until ovulation. The semen of five Pêga jackasses was diluted in skim milk-glucose or in egg yolk-glicine extender and cooled at 5ºC for 12 hours, with the inseminate dose of 400 x 106 motile spermatozoa (at the moment of the final dilution, before cooling). The results of 195 cycles of 141 mares were grouped, in accordance with the age: 2.5 to 6 years, 6.5 to 10 years, 10.5 to 14 years and 14.5 to 19 years. The pregnancy rates for the first cycle were 68.42%, 50.75%, 46.88% and 52.17%, and after four cycles, the pregnancy rates/cycle were 69.57%, 47.92%, 46.34% and 45.71%, respectively for 2.5 to 6, 6.5 to 10, 10.5 to 14 and 14.5 to 19 years (P>0,05). The mare age had no influence on fertility, using diluted and cooled jackass semen...

Imunidade celular em caninos neonatos - do nascimento ao 45° dia de idade / Cellular immunity in canine newborns - from birth to the 45th day of life

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi acompanhar o desenvolvimento imunológico dos neonatos caninos, a fim de avaliar a imunidade celular pela análise dos leucócitos e linfócitos totais e das subpopulações de linfócitos T (CD4+ e CD8+) pela técnica de citometria de fluxo. Foram utilizados 30 cães neonatos de ambos os sexos, sem raça definida, aos três, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38 e 45 dias de idade. A contagem de leucócitos totais aos 45 dias (11.639±3.574) foi significativamente maior que no terceiro dia de idade (8.740±1.812) (P<0,05); não houve diferença entre a contagem total de linfócitos aos 45 dias em relação ao terceiro dia de idade. Quanto às subpopulações de LT CD4+ e LT CD8+, os percentuais de LT CD4+, aos três dias de idade (24,9±16,8 por cento), foram inferiores quando comparados à média entre o 10°, o 24° e o 31°dia (35,5 por cento), e os de CD8+, ao terceiro dia, menores em relação às médias do 10° e do 31° dia de idade. Pode-se concluir que as subpopulações de LT CD4+ e CD8+ sofrem oscilações durante o desenvolvimento pós-natal, sendo estas crescentes em relação aos níveis obtidos aos três dias de idade. A relação CD4+:CD8+ mostrou superioridade para o primeiro tipo celular, sendo que a maior relação entre CD4+ e CD8+ ocorreu no terceiro dia de idade. Com base nos resultados obtidos neste estudo, notaram-se as diferenças semanais nas populações linfocitárias, o que demonstra a dinâmica dessas células durante o período neonatal...

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune development of newborn canines, evaluating the cellular immunity by analysis of leukocyte and lymphocyte totals and sub-population of T lymphocytes (CD4+ and CD8+) by the flow cytometry technique. Thirty neonatal mongrel dogs of both sexes were used, at 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38 and 45 days of age. The total leukocyte count to 45 days (11639±3574/µL) was significantly greater than on the third day of age (8740±1812) (p<0.05); There were no differences between the total count of lymphocytes at 45 days in relation to the third day of age. As for the subpopulations of CD4+ and CD8+, CD4+ cell percentages, at three days of age (24.9±16.8) they were inferior when compared to the average between the 10th, 24th and 31st day (35.5), and CD8+ cells, on the third day, were lower compared with averages from the 10th and 31st day of age. It can be concluded that the subpopulations of CD4+ and CD8+ cells undergo oscillations during development, with growing postnatal levels obtained at three days old. The CD4:CD8 ratio showed superiority to the first cell type, and the largest relationship between CD4+ and CD8+ occurred on the third day of age. Based on the results obtained in this study, the differences noted in lymphocyte populations weekly showed the dynamics of these cells during the neonatal period...

Milk quality according to the daily range in farm production in the Mesoregion Central Mineira and Oeste of Minas Gerais regions, Brazil / Perfil da qualidade do leite de acordo com a faixa de produção diária da propriedade leiteira nas mesorregiões Central Mineira e do Oeste de Minas Gerais, Brasil

The objective of this work was to characterize milk production from the Central Mineira and Oeste Mesoregions regions in Minas Gerais State, Brazil, according to quality parameters such as somatic cell count, total bacteria count, and composition for specific production ranges. Average results for milk fat, protein, total and nonfat solids were compliant with Brazilian legal requirements (IN-62/2011) in all the production ranges selected. Average somatic cell counts (SCC) complied with the legal requirements of 600,000 cells/mL, except for the range with a daily production above 1,000 liters. However, average maximum values of 400,000 cells/mL are recommended for good milk quality. Total bacterial count was the most critical quality factor, with the highest values found in breeds with milk production above 500 liters per day.

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar a produção de leite nas mesorregiões Central Mineira e do Oeste de Minas do estado de Minas Gerais, quanto à contagem de células somáticas, à contagem bacteriana total e à composição, em diferentes faixas de produção. Os teores de gordura, proteína, sólidos totais e extrato seco desengordurado apresentaram valores médios dentro do limite estabelecido pela Instrução Normativa n°62 (IN-62/2011), em todas as faixas específicas de produção estipuladas no presente trabalho. Os valores de contagem de células somáticas (CCS) também se mostraram dentro do limite legalmente estabelecido de 600.000 células/mL, exceto na faixa de produção acima de 1.000L/dia. Entretanto, valores abaixo de 400.000 células/mL são recomendados para um leite de boa qualidade. A contagem bacteriana total foi o fator de qualidade mais crítico. Os valores médios de contagem bacteriana ultrapassaram o limite atualmente preconizado, e rebanhos com volume diário acima de 500 litros por dia foram os que apresentaram maior número de resultados que não estão em conformidade com os padrões legais.

Furosemide is associated with acute kidney injury in critically ill patients

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in critically ill patients. Diuretics are used without any evidence demonstrating a beneficial effect on renal function. The objective of the present study is to determine the incidence of AKI in an intensive care unit (ICU) and if there is an association between the use of furosemide and the development of AKI. The study involved a hospital cohort in which 344 patients were consecutively enrolled from January 2010 to January 2011. A total of 132 patients (75 females and 57 males, average age 64 years) remained for analysis. Most exclusions were related to ICU discharge in the first 24 h. Laboratory, sociodemographic and clinical data were collected until the development of AKI, medical discharge or patient death. The incidence of AKI was 55% (95%CI = 46-64). The predictors of AKI found by univariate analysis were septic shock: OR = 3.12, 95%CI = 1.36-7.14; use of furosemide: OR = 3.27, 95%CI = 1.57-6.80, and age: OR = 1.02 (95%CI = 1.00-1.04). Analysis of the subgroup of patients with septic shock showed that the odds ratio of furosemide was 5.5 (95%CI = 1.16-26.02) for development of AKI. Age, use of furosemide, and septic shock were predictors of AKI in critically ill patients. Use of furosemide in the subgroup of patients with sepsis/septic shock increased (68.4%) the chance of development of AKI when compared to the sample as a whole (43.9%).

Uso empírico de plantas medicinais para tratamento de diabetes / Empirical use of medicinal plants for diabetes treatment

Diabetes é alvo interessante para a busca de novos métodos de tratamento com a possibilidade de uso de várias espécies de plantas medicinais. Este trabalho objetivou descrever a prevalência do uso de plantas medicinais consideradas hipoglicemiantes por pacientes diabéticos em Vitória de Santo Antão. O estudo foi do tipo descritivo transversal realizado com 158 pacientes diabéticos atendidos pelo programa HIPERDIA nos PSF's da cidade entre julho de 2009 a maio de 2010, com a coleta de dados realizada por meio de formulário estruturado. Entre os entrevistados, 36% relatavam uso de plantas medicinais consideradas hipoglicemiantes. Foram citadas 35 plantas diferentes pertencentes à 24 famílias, sendo as mais freqüentes: Asteraceae (12,5%) e Myrtaceae (9,37%). A planta medicinal mais prevalente foi a pata de vaca (Bauhinia sp), com 16,8%, seguida por azeitona roxa (Syzygium jambolanum DC.) e insulina (Cissus sicyoides L.). A maioria dos indivíduos (58%) cultivava a planta medicinal que usavam e, entre aqueles que adquiriam, a principal fonte foi a de raizeiros (28,16%).

Diabetes is an attractive target to search for new methods of treatment, with the possibility of using several medicinal plant species. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of the use of medicinal plants considered hypoglycemic for diabetic patients from Vitoria de Santo Antão-Pernambuco State, Brazil. This was a transversal descriptive study conducted with 158 diabetic patients enrolled in the program HIPERDIA at the PSF's of this city, between July 2009 and May 2010 with data collected by means of structured form. Among interviewees, 36% reported the use of medicinal plants considered hypoglycemic. A total of 35 different plants belonging to 24 families were cited and the most frequent species were: Asteraceae (12.5%) and Myrtaceae (9.37%). The most prevalent medicinal plant was "pata-de-vaca" (Bahuinia sp.), with 16.8%, followed by "azeitona roxa" (Syzygium jambolanum DC.) and "insulina" (Cissus sicyoides L.). Most individuals (58%) cultivated the medicinal plant they used, and for those who acquired them, the main source was "raizeiros" [people similar to healers but who only sell medicinal plants] (28.16%).

In vitro antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from canine otitis externa in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (167) were obtained from 528 samples of canine otitis externa, identified by biochemical reactions and tested for susceptibility to 10 antimicrobials. The most effective drug was ciprofloxacin. The study reports alarming resistance among P. aeruginosa isolated from canine otitis externa samples in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Prevalence and epidemiology of chronic hepatitis C among prisoners of Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil

In Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, the number of prisoners has increased in the recent years and the control of hepatitis C virus (HCV) has become more complex. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence and identify the genotypes of HCV in prisoners as well as the factors associated with this infectious disease. Thereby, 443 men and 243 women from prisons were interviewed and subjected to blood collection. Anti-HCV reactive samples were analyzed by RT-PCR and genotyped. The overall seroprevalence of HCV infection was 4.8 percent (95 percentCI: 3.4 to 6.8 percent). Furthermore, the prevalence was higher in: men, injecting drug users, tattooed persons, those who were more than 50 years old, individuals who have been arrested multiple times, people with previous history of sexually transmitted disease (STD), persons who received blood transfusions or those with HIV/AIDS. The prevalence of RNA HCV by PCR was 3.0 percent (95 percentCI: 1.7 to 4.2 percent). Moreover, the coinfection of HIV and HCV was 33.3 percent. In addition, genotype 1 was the most frequent (85 percent) followed by genotype 3 (15 percent). The screening strategy for HCV and other infectious diseases in inmates is important as it establishes an early diagnosis, opportunity for treatment and allows the breaking of the transmission chain.

Effects of eliminating tension by means of epineural stitches: a comparative electrophysiological and histomorphometrical study using different suture techniques in an animal model / Avaliação dos efeitos da eliminação da tensão através de ancoramento epineural: estudo experimental comparando resultados eletrofisiológicos e histomorfométricos após diferentes técnicas de reparo no nervo

Epineural stitches are a means to avoid tension in a nerve suture. We evaluate this technique, relative to interposed grafts and simple neurorraphy, in a rat model. METHOD: Twenty rats were allocated to four groups. For Group 1, sectioning of the sciatic nerve was performed, a segment 4 mm long discarded, and epineural suture with distal anchoring stitches were placed resulting in slight tension neurorraphy. For Group 2, a simple neurorraphy was performed. For Group 3, a 4 mm long graft was employed and Group 4 served as control. Ninety days after, reoperation, latency of motor action potentials recording and axonal counts were performed. Inter-group comparison was done by means of ANOVA and the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: The mean motor latency for the simple suture (2.27±0.77 ms) was lower than for the other two surgical groups, but lower than among controls (1.69±0.56 ms). Similar values were founding in both group 1 (2.66±0.71 ms) and group 3 (2.64±0.6 ms). When fibers diameters were compared a significant difference was identified between groups 2 and 3 (p=0.048). CONCLUSION: Good results can be obtained when suturing a nerve employ with epineural anchoring stitches. However, more studies are needed before extrapolating results to human nerve sutures.

A aproximação através de pontos epineurais é uma forma de se reduzir a tensão numa neurorrafia. Neste estudo esta técnica é avaliada através da sua comparação com a interposição de enxertos e neurorrafia simples num modelo experimental utilizando o rato. MÉTODO: Vinte ratos foram utilizados e divididos em 4 grupos. No Grupo 1, após a ressecção de 4 mm, os cotos do nervo foram aproximados através de pontos de ancoramento epineurais e suturados com tensão. No Grupo 2, uma neurorrafia simples foi realizada após secção do nervo. No Grupo 3, um enxerto de 4 mm foi utilizado para o reparo e o Grupo 4 foi utilizado como controle. Noventa dias após, os nervos foram novamente expostos e a medida da latência do potencial de ação motor e a contagem axonal foram realizados. A comparação entre os grupos foi realizada através da comparação entre as médias (ANOVA) e com o teste não-paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis. RESULTADOS: A média da latência motora na sutura simples (2,27±0,77 ms) foi menor em relação aos outros dois grupos onde o nervo foi seccionado e reparado e maior que o grupo controle (1,69±0,56 ms). Resultados semelhantes foram identificados nos grupos 1 (2,66±0,71 ms) e 3 (2,64±0,6 ms). Uma diferença significativa diâmetros das fibras foi identificada quando comparados os grupos 2 e 3 (p=0,048). CONCLUSÃO: Resultados equiparáveis aos obtidos com enxerto podem ser obtidos quando a neurorrafia é realizada com pontos epineurais de ancoramento com tensão, mas estudos adicionais são necessários antes desses resultados serem extrapolados para o reparo de nervo em seres humanos.

Pattern of functional antibody activity against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) in infants immunized with diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis/Hib Brazilian combination vaccine

We evaluated the functional activity of Haemophilus influenzae B (Hib) antibodies elicited in a group of infants immunized with the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine combined with an Hib vaccine produced totally in Brazil after technological transfer of Hib vaccine production from Glaxo SmithKline, Belgium. Blood samples from immunized infants (N = 985) were collected for the determination of Hib antibodies. Total Ig and IgM and IgG subclasses of antibodies against polyribosyl ribitol phosphate (PRP) were analyzed by ELISA. Almost all vaccinees (97.56 percent, 961/985) developed a strong anti-PRP IgG antibody response (¡Ý1.0 ¦Ìg/mL), while an anti-PRP IgM response was observed in 64.24 percent (634/985) of them (¡Ý0.15 ¦Ìg/mL). Only 18.88 percent (186/985) of the infants in the group with high PRP antibody IgG concentrations (¡Ý1.0 ¦Ìg/mL) developed a high IgM antibody response. Anti-PRP IgG antibody levels were significantly higher than anti-PRP IgM. These results demonstrate the predominance of IgG antibodies over IgM antibodies in response to PRP, with a ratio of 17:1. IgG antibodies were predominantly of the IgG1 subclass. An increase in IgG avidity was also observed during the course of immunization.

In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of staphylococci isolated from canine pyoderma in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Susceptibilidade in vitro a antimicrobianos de staphylococci isolados de cães com piodermatite no estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The study aimed to determine the etiology and antimicrobial resistance of staphylococci isolated from canine pyoderma. Samples were obtained from dogs with pyoderma and isolates were identified by biochemical reactions and tested for susceptibility to 15 antimicrobials. Thirty nine staphylococci isolates were obtained, and S. pseudintermedius was the most frequent (47.4 percent). All isolates showed resistance to at least one drug and 77.1 percent were multiresistant. The most effective drug was oxacillin. The study reports the alarming antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus isolated from canine pyoderma samples.

O estudo se propõe a avaliar a etiologia e a susceptibilidade de estafilococos isolados de cães com dermatite. Os isolados foram identificados por provas bioquímicas e testados quanto a sua susceptibilidade a 15 antimicrobianos. Trinta e nove isolados de Staphylococci foram obtidos, e S. pseudintermedius foi mais freqüente (47,4 por cento). Todos isolados apresentaram resistência a pelo menos uma droga e 77,1 por cento foram multirresistentes. A oxacilina foi a droga mais eficaz. O estudo demonstra níveis alarmantes de resistência antimicrobiana nos Staphylococcus de pioderma canino.

Meningoencefalite por Herpesvirus bovino 5 em Minas Gerais: relato de caso clínico / Meningoencephalitis by Bovine herpesvirus 5 in Minas Gerais state: clinical case report

Relata-se um caso de meningoencefalite causada por Herpesvirus bovino 5 (BoHV-5) heritabilityem uma vaca com cinco anos de idade. O animal manifestou quadro clínico inicial de síndrome medular baixa, caracterizada por incoordenação dos membros pélvicos, sinais estes ainda não descritos para a enfermidade. Dentro de pouco tempo a doença evoluiu para síndrome cerebral, e o óbito ocorreu seis dias após o inicio dos sintomas. Na histopatologia, evidenciou-se meningoencefalite difusa, não supurada, e a confirmação do diagnóstico foi feita por reação em cadeia de polimerase e sequenciamento do segmento parcial da glicoproteína G do vírus. O trabalho confirma a presença do BoHV-5 em Minas Gerais, descreve características clínicas novas para a enfermidade e ressalta sua importância no diagnóstico diferencial das neuropatias bovinas.

A clinical case of meningoencephalitis by Bovine herpesvirus 5 (BoHV-5) in a five-year-old cow was reported. The disease began with low spinal cord signs, characterized by incoordination, and these symptoms had never been related to this illness before. Signs of a brain syndrome were observed and the cow died in six days. At the histopathology, a spread non-supurative meningoencephalitis was diagnosed, and the virus identification was made by PCR and partial sequence of the glycoprotein G. This study confirm the BoHV-5 presence in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, describes new clinic characteristics, and show the importance of the disease in the differentiate diagnosis with others bovine central nervous system affections.

Inspeção visual e avaliações bacteriológica e físico-química da carne de piramutaba (Brachyplatistoma vaillanti) congelada / Visual inspection and bacteriological and physico-chemical evaluations of frozen piramutaba, Brachyplatistoma vaillanti, meat

Realizaram-se inspeção visual e avaliações bacteriológicas e físico-químicas da piramutaba, Brachyplatistoma vaillanti, congelada, eviscerada e sem cabeça, de 20 amostras compostas por um pool de três peixes dos dois principais distribuidores da região de Belo Horizonte, MG, sob as exigências legais. Salmonella ssp. e Staphylococcus aureus foram encontradas somente em amostras de um distribuidor, indicando que 10 por cento delas estavam impróprias para o consumo humano. Os resultados confirmam a baixa incidência desses patógenos na piramutaba. As bases voláteis totais estiveram dentro do limite exigido por lei, e os valores de pH apresentaram-se fora dos padrões legais em 90 por cento das amostras, nos dois distribuidores.

Visual inspection and bacteriological and physico-chemical evaluations were carried out in frozen, eviscerated, and headless piramutaba (Brachyplatistoma vaillanti). Twenty samples composed by a pool of three fish from the two main wholesalers of Belo Horizonte, MG, were studied. Salmonella ssp. and Staphylococcus aureus were only found in samples of one wholesaler, representing that 10 percent of the samples were inappropriate for human consumption. The results confirmed the low incidence of these pathogens in piramutaba. The total volatile bases were in accordance and the pH values were not in accordance with the law requirements in 90 percent of the samples.

Apoptosis in the transplanted canine transmissible venereal tumor during growth and regression phases / Apoptose no tumor venéreo transmissível canino durante as fases de crescimento e regressão

Twelve male, mongrel, adult dogs were subcutaneously transplanted with cells originated from two canine transmissible venereal tumors (TVT). The aim was to demonstrate and to quantify the occurrence of apoptosis in the TVT regression. After six months of transplantation, a tumor sample was obtained from each dog, being six dogs with TVT in the growing phase and six in the regression phase as verified by daily measurements. Samples were processed for histological and ultrastructural purposes as well as for DNA extraction. Sections of 4µm were stained by HE, Shorr, methyl green pyronine, Van Gieson, TUNEL reaction and immunostained for P53. The Shorr stained sections went through morphometry that demonstrated an increase of the apoptotic cells per field in the regressive tumors. It was also confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, which showed cells with typical morphology of apoptosis and by the TUNEL reaction that detected in situ the 3'OH nick end labeling mainly in the regressive tumors. The regressive TVTs also showed an intensified immunostaining for P53 besides a more intense genomic DNA fragmentation detected by the agarose gel electrophoresis. In conclusion, apoptosis has an important role in the regression of the experimental TVT in a way that is P53-dependent.

Doze cães, adultos, machos e sem raça definida foram transplantados subcutaneamente, na região hipogástrica, com células originadas de dois tumores venéreos transmissíveis caninos (TVT). O objetivo do estudo foi demonstrar e quantificar a ocorrência de apoptose na regressão do TVT. Após seis meses, foi obtido um tumor de cada animal, totalizando seis em crescimento e seis em regressão. Fragmentos dos tumores foram processados para avaliação histológica, ultra-estrutural e também para extração de DNA. Cortes de 4µm foram corados em HE, Shorr, verde de metila pironina e Van Gieson e alguns foram submetidos à reação do TUNEL e à imunoistoquímica para P53. Secções coradas pelo Shorr, submetidas à morfometria, demonstram maior índice apoptótico nos tumores em regressão. Esse achado foi confirmado pela microscopia eletrônica de transmissão que evidenciou células com morfologia típica de apoptose e pela reação de TUNEL que marcou mais células nos tumores em regressão que naqueles em crescimento. A imunomarcação para P53 foi mais intensa nos tumores em regressão, assim como a fragmentação internucleossômica do genoma mostrada pela eletroforese em gel de agarose. Concluiu-se que a apoptose tem importante papel na regressão do TVT transplantado experimentalmente, sendo, nesse caso, dependente de P53 para a sua execução.

The reciprocal interaction between sleep and type 2 diabetes mellitus: facts and perspectives

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease characterized by intolerance to glucose and peripheral resistance to insulin. This endocrine disease affects fundamental mechanisms of the central nervous system and jeopardizes the balance of vital functions such as the cardiovascular and circadian rhythm. The increased prevalence of metabolic disorders in our society is aggravated by endemic voluntary postponement of bedtime and by the current sedentary lifestyle, leading to epidemic proportions of obese people. Diabetes and chronic loss of sleep share the fact that both affect millions and one is detrimental to the other. Indeed, sleep deficits have marked modulatory effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity and foster metabolic syndrome that culminates in sleep disorders like restless syndrome and sleep apnea, which in turn lead to poor sleep quality. We examine the hypothesis that these two worldwide emerging disorders are due to two interlinked cycles. In our paradigm, we establish an intimate relationship between diabetes and sleep disturbances and postulate possible mechanisms that provide support for this conjecture. In addition, we propose some perspectives about the development of the reciprocal interaction between predictor components of metabolic syndrome and sleep disturbances that lead to poor sleep quality. The ability to predict the development and identify or associate a given mode of sleep disturbance to diabetes would be a valuable asset in the assessment of both. Furthermore, major advances in care coupled with healthy lifestyles can ensure a higher quality of life for people with diabetes.