CETP gene polymorphisms and haplotypes are explanatory variables for HDL cholesterol level in sickle cell disease

Variations in lipid profile have been observed in sickle cell disease (SCD) and understanding their relationship with disease severity is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association of polymorphisms of the CETP gene and laboratory markers of disease severity with lipid profile in a pediatric population with SCD. Biochemical and anthropometric analyses and CETP and alpha-thalassemia genotyping were performed. The study included 133 children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA) or hemoglobin SC disease (SCC), in steady-state. The SCA and no hydroxyurea (no HU) groups had higher values of ApoB, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) compared to the SCC and HU groups. However, there were no significant differences in ApoA1 and HDL-C levels between the groups based on genotype. Furthermore, the groups with altered levels of ApoA1, HDL-C, and the triglyceride/HDL ratio exhibited lower hemoglobin (Hb) levels and higher white blood cell counts. Hb level was associated to HDL-C levels. Analysis of CETP gene variants showed that the minor alleles of rs3764261 (C>A), rs247616 (C>T), and rs183130 (C>T), as well as the TTA haplotype, are explanatory variables for HDL-C levels. These findings suggested that dyslipidemia in SCD, specifically related to HDL-C levels, may be influenced by individual genetic background. Additionally, further investigation is needed to determine if clinical manifestations are impacted by CETP gene variants.

Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor Therapy and Cardiac Remodeling in Heart Failure: Consensus Statement from India

Adverse cardiac remodeling refers to progressive structural and functional modifications in the heart because of increased wall stress in the myocardium, loss of viable myocardium, and neurohormonal stimulation. The guideline-directed medical therapy for Heart failure (HF) includes Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) (sacubitril/valsartan), ?-blockers, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA). ARNI is under-prescribed in India despite its attractive safety and efficacy profile. Therefore, the consensus discusses objectives and topics related to ARNI in the management of cardiac remodeling, and experts shared their views on the early timely intervention of effective dosage of ARNI to improve the diagnosis and enhance mortality and morbidity benefits in cardiac reverse remodeling (CRR).

Impact of antimicrobial stewardship program on clinical outcomes in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections at a tertiary care hospital from South India

Background: Increasing bacterial resistance to antimicrobial agents is resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs aim at rationale use of antimicrobial agents in clinical settings by development and implementation of antibiotic policy. As the patterns of antimicrobial resistance vary with organism and time, there is a need for periodic surveillance. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study the impact of AMS program on appropriate use of antimicrobial agents and clinical outcomes in patients with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial (MDR GNB) infections. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study that included patients diagnosed with multidrug-resistance Gram-negative bacterial infections during June to July 2019. Identification of multidrug-resistant organisms was performed as per clinical and laboratory standards institute guidelines 2016. Information on the use of empirical antibiotic and other antimicrobial agents after culture and sensitivity report were collected and assessed for appropriateness. All the patients were followed up till discharge. Results: From 170 patients, there were 211 specimens sent for culture and sensitivity and 249 pathogens were isolated. The most frequent pathogen isolated was Escherichia coli (42.6%) followed by Klebsiella spp. (22.9%). Isolates were most resistant to cefazolin (86.7%) and ceftriaxone (83.9%), and most sensitive to polymyxin B (100%) and tigecycline (97.2%). All patients were administered antimicrobial agents as per antibiotic policy of the institute and 154 (90.6%) patients have recovered from illness with a mean length of hospital stay of 19.4 ± 6.6 days. Conclusion: Adherence to antimicrobial policy helps in improved outcomes in patients with MDR GNB infections. Hence, the need to implement AMS program in all hospitals.

Role of Iron Therapy in Heart Failure: A Consensus Statement from India

Iron deficiency (ID) with or without anemia is frequently observed in patients with heart failure (HF). Uncorrected ID is associated with higher hospitalization and mortality in patients with acute HF (AHF) and chronic HF (CHF). Hence, in addition to chronic renal insufficiency, anemia, and diabetes, ID appears as a novel comorbidity and a treatment target of CHF. Intravenous (IV) ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) reduces the hospitalization risk due to HF worsening and improves functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) in HF patients. The current consensus document provides criteria, an expert opinion on the diagnosis of ID in HF, patient profiles for IV FCM, and correct administration and monitoring of such patients.

The Power and Promise of Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor (ARNI) in Heart Failure Management: National Consensus Statement

Heart failure (HF) is a huge global public health task due to morbidity, mortality, disturbed quality of life, and major economic burden. It is an area of active research and newer treatment strategies are evolving. Recently angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), a class of drugs (the first agent in this class, Sacubitril–Valsartan), reduces cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in chronic HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Positive therapeutic effects have led to a decrease in cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalizations (HFH), with a favorable safety profile, and have been documented in several clinical studies with an unquestionable survival benefit with ARNI, Sacubitril–Valsartan. This consensus statement of the Indian group of experts in cardiology, nephrology, and diabetes provides a comprehensive review of the power and promise of ARNI in HF management and an evidence-based appraisal of the use of ARNI as an essential treatment strategy for HF patients in clinical practice. Consensus in this review favors an early utility of Sacubitril–Valsartan in patients with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF), regardless of the previous therapy being given. A lower rate of hospitalizations for HF with Sacubitril–Valsartan in HF patients with preserved EF who are phenotypically heterogeneous suggests possible benefits of ARNI in patients having 40–50% of LVEF, frequent subtle systolic dysfunction, and higher hospitalization risk.

A model for preservation of thymocyte-depleted thymus

DiGeorge syndrome is a disorder caused by a microdeletion on the long arm of chromosome 22. Approximately 1% of patients diagnosed with DiGeorge syndrome may have an absence of a functional thymus, which characterizes the complete form of the syndrome. These patients require urgent treatment to reconstitute T cell immunity. Thymus transplantation is a promising investigational procedure for reconstitution of thymic function in infants with congenital athymia. Here, we demonstrate a possible optimization of the preparation of thymus slices for transplantation through prior depletion of thymocytes and leukocyte cell lineages followed by cryopreservation with cryoprotective media (5% dextran FP 40, 5% Me2SO, and 5% FBS) while preserving tissue architecture. Thymus fragments were stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C for 30 days or one year. The tissue architecture of the fragments was preserved, including the distinction between medullary thymic epithelial cells (TECs), cortical TECs, and Hassall bodies. Moreover, depleted thymus fragments cryopreserved for one year were recolonized by intrathymic injections of 3×106 thymocytes per mL, demonstrating the capability of these fragments to support T cell development. Thus, this technique opens up the possibility of freezing and storing large volumes of thymus tissue for immediate transplantation into patients with DiGeorge syndrome or atypical (Omenn-like) phenotype.

Scorpion venom component: AGAP exhibits local anaesthetic effects and attenuates nociceptive pain

The incidences of systemic toxicity and other complications associated with existing local anaesthetics can occur at clinical concentration level and vary with the anaesthetic techniques, types of surgery and patient factors. This evidence suggests the need for therapeutic interventions in peripheral and regional anaesthesia. Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK) scorpion venom is a compound that contains mixtures of peptides that have analgesic properties. This study aimed to investigate the local anaesthetic activity of scorpion venom peptide, AGAP (analgesic-antitumor peptide) in mechanical hyperalgesia or acute inflammatory pain. Method: Formalin was injected into the left hind paw after 20 minutes of infiltration of drugs. The time of licking or flinching of the injected hind paw was recorded as indicative of nociceptive or acute inflammatory pain. Paw flinching or quick withdrawal was considered a positive response to pain in the partial sciatic nerve ligation. The paw-withdrawal threshold (PWT) was determined by consecutively increasing and decreasing the magnitude of the stimulus. Results: The results indicated that AGAP exhibited a 67.9% inhibition in licking or flinching time and an 88.1% inhibition in paw withdrawal in mechanical hyperalgesia. The addition of AGAP to lidocaine showed an 89.5% inhibition in paw withdrawal. Conclusion: The data presented in this study suggest that local infiltration of AGAP significantly reduced mechanical hyperalgesia and acute inflammatory pain

Phylogenetic variants of Mycoplasma hominis from pregnant women and women presenting with infertility in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria

Background: Much controversies have been associated with the pathogenicity of Mycoplasma hominis but little has been done to unravel the mystery behind the different views. This study aimed at investigating the genetic variants abounding within M. hominis and the distribution of the virulent genes among the variants. Methodology: Twenty (20) M. hominis isolates from high vaginal swabs of women (11 from pregnant women and 9 from women presenting with infertility) attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology clinics of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Nigeria, were sequenced using 16S rRNA universal gene target for the purpose of phylogenetic analysis and epidemiological typing. The isolates were also screened for the presence of M. hominis variable adherence antigen (vaa) and p120 virulent genes using primer constructs from the respective genes in a conventional PCR protocol. Results: Of the 20 M. hominis vaginal isolates, 4 phylogenetic strains were detected; strain MHS43 constituted 10/20 (50.0%) [2/9 (22.2%) from infertile women and 8/11 (72.7%) from pregnant women]; strain MHBS constituted 3/20 (15%) [3/9 (33.3%) from infertile women and 0/11 (0%) from pregnant women]; strain MHSWP2 constituted 4/20 (20.0%) [3/9 (33.3%) from infertile women and 1/11 (9.1%) from pregnant women]; while strain MHKC87 constituted 3/20 (15%) [1/9 (11.1%) from infertile women and 2/11 (18.2%) from pregnant women].Each of vaa and p120 genes was detected in 14 of 20 isolates, while 6 isolates did not carry the genes. A 2-way ANOVA test showed that none of the genes was significantly associated with a particular strain (p=0.8641). Conclusions: The different views regarding the pathogenicity of M. hominis may be linked to the heterogeneity within the species and lack of homogeneity in the virulent genes as witnessed both in the intra species and intra strain levels.

Awareness of health care workers regarding COVID-19 vaccine in a tertiary care hospital-a knowledge, attitude, and practice study

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus-2-novel coronavirus termed as COVID 19 is a major outbreak which was deleterious globally created a rapid cases of pulmonary infectious disease that caused the SARS. Building up confidence in vaccination depends on the interaction between public and doctors. Attitude toward usage of vaccination by healthcare workers (HCWs) is a major factor that is associated with general public acceptance of vaccination, fidelity to schedules, and devoid of hesitation/aversion. In addition, vaccinated HCWs also have a perceptible effect of decisiveness in general public to take a vaccine. Aims and Objectives: To understand the knowledge, attitude and practices on COVID vaccine among HCWs. Materials and Methods: This is a hospital-based, observational cross-sectional study done in Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Teaching hospital, Hassan. A sample of 340 HCWs who have been vaccinated 1st dose of inactivated COVID Vaccine was taken up for the study. A predesigned questionnaire was prepared and given to all the HCWs in the observation period of 30 min after vaccination. The questionnaire had 13 questions, and the data were collected and analyzed. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis. Results: This study was done in a district hospital, Hassan, Karnataka with a sample size of 340 HCWs participated in the study and completed the study questionnaire, out of which 146 men (43.4%) and 190 women (56.54%). Willingness to take the vaccine is 96%. 93.4% of HCWs encourage others to take vaccine. Our institution arranged a adverse events following immunization reporting and monitoring team management and 93.9% of the HCWs knew where to report if any adverse events occur in the observation period of 30 min after vaccination and also after going back to their respective homes through a telephone number and also this will help knowing the and acceptability of the vaccines. Conclusion: HCWs play an influential role in general public vaccination program. The information from this study will help to gain more knowledge and also allow the general public to future vaccination acceptability. The approach of HCWs might help in creating awareness and preventing false information about COVID vaccine among general public.

Toxicity of Herbicide, Paraquat Dichloride and Insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin on Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Pantoa dispersa in Aquatic Ecosystems

Aim: The study was aimed to determine the toxicity of paraquat dichloride and lambda-cyhalothrin on phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Pantoa dispersa in aquatic ecosystems.Study Design: This study employs randomized block design, statistical analysis of the data and interpretation.Place and Duration of the Study: Soil sample was collected from the root nodules of leguminous plants in a sterile polythene bag from the Elele, in Etche L.G.A, Rivers State. The fresh water sample was collected from Bane town in Khana L.G.A, brackish water sample was collected from Choba river in Obio/Akpor L.G.A while the marine water was collected from Bonny River of Bonny L.G.A., all of Rivers State, Nigeria. The samples were collected aseptically and transported in an ice-pack immediately to the Rivers State University, Microbiology laboratory for analysis. The study lasted for three months.Methodology: The bacterium, Pantoa dispersa was isolated and identified based on conventional and molecular characterization from water and soil samples. Different concentrations (3.13%, 6.25, 12.50, 25.00%, 50.00% and 75.00%) and the control (0%) of the herbicide (paraquat dichloride) and insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin were prepared using fresh, brackish and marine water samples and 10ml of the test organism, Pantoa dispersa was introduced and the survival count was determined at 0, 4hr, 8hr, 12hr and 24hr. The Mean Lethal Concentration (LC50) of the insecticide and herbicide on Pantoa dispersa in the three aquatic ecosystem was determined.Results: The LC50 of the herbicide (Paraquat dichloride) was recorded as 15.8% in brackish water, 17.37% in fresh water and 27.44% in marine water. While the LC50 of the insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin to Pantoa dispersa was 26.84% in fresh water, 27.26% in brackish water and 32.33% in marine water.Conclusion: From the study, the herbicide, Paraquat dichloride was more toxic in the three aquatic ecosystems compared to the insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin. The use of these agrochemicals should be monitored as they result in the mortality of beneficial soil bacteria like Pantoa dispersa which is phosphate solubilizing bacteria in aquatic ecosystems.

Toxic non-inflammatory fungal keratitis

Purpose: To report a new entity called “toxic non?inflammatory fungal keratitis.” Methods: Eyes manifesting infective keratitis with a history of prior administration of topical steroids were included in the study. The details pertaining to the type of injury, duration of injury, and primary treatment for corneal trauma were meticulously documented. The corneal tissues were scraped from the patients and were analyzed for fungal filaments by using a 10% KOH mount under a compound microscope. Moreover, these scraped materials were plated on blood agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar plates. Results: The corneal ulcers displayed a disproportionately reduced intensity of pain and improved visual acuity. Further, 10% KOH revealed profuse fungal filaments with few inflammatory cells in all the patients. The anterior chamber cells and flare were either reduced or entirely absent. There was no evidence of lid edema and surrounding corneal edema in any of the patients. The mean healing period was 28.8 days (standard deviation (SD): 10.05). The KOH mount revealed the presence of confluent fungal hyphae with a few inflammatory cell infiltrates. The Aspergillus species and Fusarium species were found in 47% and 40% of the cases, respectively. Conclusion: Toxic non?inflammatory fungal keratitis following steroid therapy needs to be considered in fungal ulcers with disproportionately less pain and good visual acuity. The fungal ulcers with altered clinical signs of classical inflammation need to be assessed for topical steroid misuse.

Influence of Chromium Stress on Chlorophyll Content, Polyphenol Oxidase and Peroxidase Activity in Horse Gram (Dolichos biflorus L)

The presence of heavy metals in solid and liquid wastes is a significant issue in terms of the environment degradation. These are one of the most serious environmental pollutants, and reaching dangerous levels will need more investigation. Chromium, in particular, has become a global environmental problem among heavy metals. This research looked at the effects of Cr207 stress on Dolichos biflorus L., a kind of horse grain that plays an essential role in Indian agriculture. D. biflorus seeds were cultivated in the dark under laboratory conditions with a Sodium chromate concentration of (0-3.0mg/L). The control treatment was distilled water. Seven-day-old seedlings were utilized to study the effects of chromate stress on peroxidase activity and chlorophyll content. The findings showed that when the quantity of Sodium chromate increased, the chlorophyll content of D. biflorus seedlings increased considerably (p 0.9). Increased polyphenyloxiase and peroxidase activity indicated the appearance of a scavenging mechanism in plants under heavy metal stress, whereas increased peroxidase quantity indicated the generation of free radicals. The drop in chlorophyll concentration indicates that the plants' development has slowed, resulting in a fall in production.

Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in pregnant women attending Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria using the complete Amsel's diagnostic criteria

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) in pregnant women remains a cause for clinical concern among clinicians and health care professionals. BV has been linked to prenatal, antenatal and postnatal challenges in pregnant women. Information on prevalence of BV across trimesters of pregnancy is expected to give better clinical insight into the pathophysiology of this polymicrobial disorder. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of BV in pregnant women attending the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Nigeria. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study of 120 pregnant women (40 in each trimester of pregnancy) who had symptoms suggestive of BV, selected by systematic random sampling from among the women attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O & G) clinic of NAUTH, Nnewi. Each subject participant was examined by the attending clinician, and high vaginal swab (HVS) sample was collected for diagnostic analysis of BV using with complete Amsel's clinical criteria, which consists of three of the four criteria; (i) adherent and homogenous vaginal discharge, (ii) vaginal pH > 4.5, (iii) detection of clue cells on saline wet mount, and (iv) amine odor after the addition of potassium hydroxide (positive Whiff test). Results: The mean age of the 120 selected participants was 27.25±6.09 years. The age groups 25-29 (36.7%) and 20-24 years (33.3%) constituted the largest proportion, while age groups <20 (5.0%) and 40-45 years (5.0%) constituted the least. Of the 120 participants, 26 (21.7%) were positive for BV by the Amsel's criteria. Pregnant women in age group <20 years had the highest prevalence of BV (100%, 6/6), followed by those in the age groups 20-24 (27.5%), 40-45 (16.7%), 25-29 (15.9%), 30-34 (9.1%) and 35-39 years (0%) (X 2=28.063, p=0.0001). Prevalence of BV was significantly higher in single (unmarried) pregnant women (45.5%, X 2=4.038, p=0.045), women with primary school education level (66.7%, X 2=14.530, p=0.001), unemployed women (36.1%, X 2=13.278, p=0.0013), and nulliparous women [36.4%, X 2 (for trend) = 4.805, p=0.0274), while there was no significant difference in the prevalence of BV with relation to trimester of pregnancy (X 2=2.750, p=0.253). Conclusion: This study reveals a relatively high prevalence of BV and significant association with factors such as age group, education and occupational status among pregnant women attending NAUTH Nnewi. Regular screening of women for BV prenatally may enable appropriate interventions to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes

Morphological and cytochemical characterization of the peripheral blood cells of farmed streaked prochilod Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae) / [Caracterização morfológica e citoquímica das células do sangue periférico do curimatã Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae) em cultivo]

Morphological and cytochemical studies of peripheral blood cells of fish have improved the understanding of their functions and cell types. The present study performed the Morphological and cytochemical analysis of the peripheral blood of Prochilodus lineatus, Characiform native to South America, which has been gaining space in local aquaculture and as a species introduced in Asia. Our analysis provided information on the morphological and cytochemical characteristics of the leukocytes, for the formulation of hypothesis about their role in the immune system of the species. It was found that Prochilodus lineatus has morphological and cytochemical features in common with other fish species, mainly of the Characiformes order. However, we detected the presence of heterophils and PAS positive granulocytes simultaneously with neutrophils. We also found that heterophils and PAS positive granulocytes are very similar, both morphologically and cytochemically.(AU)

O estudo da morfologia e da citoquímica das células do sangue periférico dos peixes tem sido eficaz para o entendimento de suas funções e dos tipos celulares. Este estudo realizou a análise morfológica e citoquímica do sangue periférico de Prochilodus lineatus, caracídeo nativo da América do Sul que vem ganhando espaço na aquicultura local e como espécie introduzida na Ásia. Essa análise forneceu informações sobre a morfologia e as características citoquímicas dos leucócitos, visando a hipóteses sobre suas funções. Verificou-se que estas são semelhantes em vários aspectos a outras espécies, principalmente da ordem Characiformes. No entanto, neste estudo detectou-se a presença dos heterofilos e da célula granulocítica especial, simultaneamente à presença dos neutrófilos. Ainda, foi verificado que os heterofilos e a célula granulocítica especial são muito semelhantes morfológica e citoquimicamente.(AU)

EARLY STEAM INHALATION THE FIRST CRUCIAL STEP IN COMBATING EVIL – THE COVID-19

Hot water is good for throat, but the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) hidden behind sinuses about 3-4 days. There was no way through which the warm water would reach behind sinuses. The virus that is hiding behind the sinuses enters the lungs within 4 to 5 days and causes respiratory problems. Inhaling vapor reaches the back of the sinuses. Steam inhalation thins mucus and clears nasal passages and reduces inflammation of the upper respiratory tract or inhibits viral replication due to the heat of the steam. The virus is paralyzed at 50 ° C. The virus becomes so weak at 60 C that it can be resisted by the human immune 0 system. The virus is completely dead at 70 °C. COVID-19 can be killed by breathing vapours through the nose and mouth, according to doctors. Symptoms of mild to moderate infection (COVID-19) usually disappear through vapor inhalation. If everyone started a week-long streaming campaign, the pandemic would end soon. The deadly COVID- 19 is likely to be eliminated if everyone inhales steam during the week. There are no negative consequences to this exercise, and it is inexpensive. This review article describes the benefits of inhalation of steam and its use as an adjunct treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic

Genotypic evaluation of antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococcus spp. isolated from bovine clinical mastitis / [Avaliação genotípica da resistência antimicrobiana em Staphylococcus spp. isolados de mastite clínica bovina]

Bovine clinical mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp. is a serious and widespread disease in the world of dairy farming. Antimicrobial therapy is of fundamental importance in the prevention and treatment of infectious mastitis, but the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials acts as a determining factor for the spread of the disease. The present study evaluated the resistance profiles of 57 Staphylococcus spp. isolated from bovine clinical mastitis to beta-lactams and gentamicin, relating characteristics of phenotype (in vitro susceptibility tests) and genotype (detection and expression of genes encoding resistance - mecA, mecALGA251, blaZ, femA, femB, and aacA-aphD - using PCR and RT-PCR, respectively). One or more genes coding for resistance to different antimicrobials were detected in 50 Staphylococcus spp. isolates. The femA and femB genes were the most frequent (75.4% for both). The observed expression of the genes was as follows: blaZ (60%), femA (39.5%), aacA-aphD (50%), femB (32.6%), mecA (8.3%), and mecALGA251 (0%). Considering the relevance of the genus Staphylococcus to bovine mastitis, this study aimed to elucidate aspects regarding the genotypic and phenotypic profiles of these microorganisms so as to contribute to the development of effective strategies for mastitis control.(AU)

A mastite clínica bovina causada por Staphylococcus spp. é uma doença grave e generalizada no mundo da pecuária leiteira. A terapia antimicrobiana é de fundamental importância na prevenção e no tratamento da mastite infecciosa, mas o uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos atua como fator determinante para a disseminação da doença. O presente estudo avaliou os perfis de resistência de 57 Staphylococcus spp. isolados de mastite clínica bovina em relação ao uso de betalactâmicos e gentamicina, relacionando características do fenótipo (testes de suscetibilidade in vitro) e genótipo (detecção e expressão de genes que codificam resistência - mecA, mecALGA251, blaZ, femA, femB, e aacA-aphD - usando PCR e RT-PCR, respectivamente). Um ou mais genes que codificam resistência a diferentes antimicrobianos foram detectados em 50 Staphylococcus spp. isolados. Os genes femA e femB foram os mais frequentes (75,4% para ambos). A expressão observada dos genes foi a seguinte: blaZ (60%), femA (39,5%), aacA-aphD (50%), femB (32,6%), mecA (8,3%) e mecALGA251 (0%). Considerando-se a relevância do gênero Staphylococcus para a mastite bovina, este estudo teve como objetivo elucidar aspectos referentes aos perfis genotípico e fenotípico desses microrganismos, a fim de contribuir para o desenvolvimento de estratégias eficazes para o controle da mastite.(AU)

Use of biometrics in the prediction of body weight in crossbred lambs / [Uso da biometria na predição do peso corporal de cordeiros mestiços]

O objetivo deste trabalho foi propor um modelo matemático para predição do peso corporal de cordeiros com base nas medidas biométricas. Foram utilizados dados de 51 cordeiros, com composição genética de pelo menos 50% da raça Santa Inês. O peso corporal (PC) dos animais foi acompanhado durante 91 dias por meio de pesagens semanais. Após as pesagens, foram tomadas as medidas: altura anterior (AA); altura posterior (AP); comprimento corporal (CC); largura de peito (LP); largura de garupa (LG); perímetro torácico (PT) e perímetro de barril (PB). Essas medidas foram utilizadas como variáveis de entrada do modelo. Foi observado correlações positivas e significativas (P<0,05) entre todas as variáveis biométricas com o PC. No entanto, o PC apresentou uma alta correlação com o PT (0,836), seguido do PB (0,818) e AP (0,740). Dessa forma, essas três medidas foram significativas para estimativa do PC. Portanto, o modelo para predizer o PC dos cordeiros foi: Peso (kg)=0,4455* PT - 0,5794 * PB + 0,0019 * AP2 + 0.0053* PB2. O perímetro torácico, perímetro de barril e altura de posterior podem ser utilizados como variáveis preditoras do peso corporal em ovinos mestiços, independente do sexo.(AU)

Ultrasonographic characterization of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of snakes in the Boidae Family

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was the ultrasonographic evaluation of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of healthy snakes in the Boidae family. For such, 15 adult snakes from five species were evaluated: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi and Epicrates crassus. The animals were physically restrained for examination. After the application of acoustic gel over the scales the transducer was positioned in the frontal plane of the coelomic cavity. Microconvex and linear transducers at 10MHz were used. The ultrasound examination was conducted in the craniocaudal direction, with longitudinal and transversal sections to assess syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs. The liver was bilobulated, hyperechoic, homogeneous echotexture, hyperechoic capsule, with a hepatic lobe measuring 1.15±0.64cm wide, and the presence of a central hepatic vein, measuring 0.44±0.21cm in diameter. The gallbladder was characterized as an anechoic structure with echogenic walls and dimensions of 2.91±1.18cm x 1.38±0.84cm (length x width). The stomach showed a pleated and linear texture, echogenic, with hypoechoic walls measuring 0.3±0.07cm wide. The splenopancreas was a circular and echogenic structure, homogeneous echotexture and measuring 1.18±0.62cm in width and 1.56±0.88cm in length. The kidneys were characterized by elongated, lobulated, hypoechoic structures, an echogenic capsule and an echogenic central line, measuring 1.05±0.7cm in width. The testis were characterized by fusiform, hypoechoic structures, homogeneous echotexture, measuring 2.31±0.79cm in length and 0.6±0.23cm in width. Ovarian follicles were seen in different stages, 0.67±0.39cm wide and 0.73±0.38cm long. No differences were found between species of syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs of the coelomic cavity. The ultrasound examination proved to be a safe, non-invasive and efficient technique for characterizing the organs of the coelomic cavity of snakes.

RESUMO: O objetivo do estudo foi realizar a avaliação ultrassonográfica de órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes hígidas da família Boidae. Para isto, foram avaliadas 15 serpentes adultas de cinco espécies: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi e Epicrates crassus. Os animais foram contidos fisicamente para a realização do exame. Após aplicação de gel acústico sobre as escamas, o transdutor foi posicionado no plano frontal da cavidade celomática. Foram utilizados transdutores microconvexo e linear em 10MHz. O exame ultrassonográfico foi conduzido no sentido craniocaudal, com cortes longitudinais e transversais para avaliar sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos. O fígado se apresentou bilobulado, hiperecoico, ecotextura homogênea, cápsula hiperecoica, com lobo hepático medindo 1,15±0,64cm de largura, e presença de uma veia central hepática, medindo 0,44±0,21cm de diâmetro. A vesícula biliar foi caracterizada como uma estrutura anecoica de paredes ecogênicas e dimensões de 2,91±1,18cm x 1,38±0,84cm(comprimento x largura). O estômago apresentou-se com o aspecto pregueado e linear, ecogênico, com paredes hipoecoicas medindo 0,3±0,07cm de largura. O esplenopâncreasse apresentou como uma estrutura circular e ecogênica, ecotextura homogênea e medindo de 1,18±0,62cm de largura e 1,56±0,88cm de comprimento. Os rins se caracterizaram por estruturas alongadas, lobuladas, hipoecoicas, cápsula ecogênica e uma linha central ecogênica, medindo 1,05±0,7cm de largura. Os testículos foram caracterizados por estruturas fusiformes, hipoecoicas, ecotextura homogênea, medindo 2,31±0,79cm de comprimento e 0,6±0,23cm de largura. Foram visualizados folículos ovarianos em diferentes estágios, de 0,67±0,39cm de largura e 0,73±0,38cm de comprimento. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre espécies de sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos da cavidade celomática. O exame ultrassonográfico demonstrou-se uma técnica segura, não invasiva e eficiente para caracterização dos órgãos da cavidade celomática de serpentes.

Behavior and development of Tetranychus ludeni Zacher, 1913 (Acari: Tetranychidae) and physiological stress in genetically modified cotton expressing Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins / Comportamento e desenvolvimento de Tetranychus ludeni Zacher, 1913 (Acari: Tetranychidae) e estresse fisiológico em algodoeiro geneticamente modificado expressando as proteínas Cry1F e Cry1Ac

Genetically modified plants are one of the tactics used in integrated pest management - IPM. There is great concern about the impact of these plants on non-target organisms. On the other hand, there is little information in the literature on the effects of transgenics (Bacillus thuringiensis) Bt on populations of phytophagous mites, and the physiological responses that this attack promotes on plants. The objective of this work was to evaluate the biology of the T. ludeni mite in Bt cotton, expressing the Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins. To evaluate the behavior of food and oviposition preference of the T. ludeni with Bt cotton and isohybrid. Verify if the physiological stress caused by T. ludeni's attack is differentiated in Bt cotton. The mites were reared in Bt cotton and isohybrid, in a total of 40 replicates in the completely randomized design and the biological cycle was evaluated. The food preference and oviposition analysis were done with 10 replicates, with choice. The physiological stress was evaluated through chlorophyll fluorescence, under greenhouse conditions. The data of the T. ludeni biology were analyzed by Student's t-test, for food and oviposition preference the chi-square test was performed. Regression models were fitted for the fluorescence parameters. The model identity test was used to evaluate the differences between Bt and isohybrid treatments. Cry1F and Cry1Ac proteins have not affected the biology of T. ludeni. The photosynthetic parameters in Bt cotton plants were less influenced by T. ludeni infestation.

O uso de plantas geneticamente modificadas é uma das táticas utilizadas no manejo integrado de pragas - MIP. Observa-se grande preocupação com o impacto dessas plantas sobre organismos não alvos. Por outro lado, existe pouca informação na literatura sobre efeitos dos transgênicos (Bacillus thuringiensis) Bt em populações de ácaros fitófagos, e as respostas fisiológicas que esse ataque promove nas plantas. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho avaliar a biologia do ácaro T. ludeni em algodoeiro Bt, expressando as proteínas Cry1F e Cry1Ac. Avaliar se há comportamento de preferência alimentar e postura de T. ludeni em relação ao algodoeiro Bt e seu iso-híbrido. E verificar se o estresse fisiológico causado pelo ataque de T. ludeni é diferenciado em algodoeiro Bt. Os ácaros foram criados em algodoeiro Bt e iso-híbrido, em um total de 40 repetições no delineamento inteiramente casualizado, onde foi avaliado o ciclo biológico. A análise de preferência alimentar e de posturas foi feita com 10 repetições, com escolha. O estresse fisiológico foi avaliando através da fluorescência da clorofila, em casa de vegetação. Os dados da biologia de T. ludeni foram analisados pelo teste t Student, para preferência alimentar e postura foi realizado o teste qui-quadrado. Para os parâmetros da fluorescência, foram ajustados modelos de regressão. Para testar as diferenças entre Bt e iso-híbrido foi utilizado o teste de identidade de modelos. As proteínas Cry1F e Cry1Ac não afetaram a biologia de T. ludeni. Os parâmetros fotossintéticos em plantas de algodoeiro Bt foram menos influenciados pela infestação de T. ludeni.

Ultrasonographic characterization of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of snakes in the Boidae Family / Caracterização ultrassonográfica dos órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes da família Boidae

The aim of this study was the ultrasonographic evaluation of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of healthy snakes in the Boidae family. For such, 15 adult snakes from five species were evaluated: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi and Epicrates crassus. The animals were physically restrained for examination. After the application of acoustic gel over the scales the transducer was positioned in the frontal plane of the coelomic cavity. Microconvex and linear transducers at 10MHz were used. The ultrasound examination was conducted in the craniocaudal direction, with longitudinal and transversal sections to assess syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs. The liver was bilobulated, hyperechoic, homogeneous echotexture, hyperechoic capsule, with a hepatic lobe measuring 1.15±0.64cm wide, and the presence of a central hepatic vein, measuring 0.44±0.21cm in diameter. The gallbladder was characterized as an anechoic structure with echogenic walls and dimensions of 2.91±1.18cm x 1.38±0.84cm (length x width). The stomach showed a pleated and linear texture, echogenic, with hypoechoic walls measuring 0.3±0.07cm wide. The splenopancreas was a circular and echogenic structure, homogeneous echotexture and measuring 1.18±0.62cm in width and 1.56±0.88cm in length. The kidneys were characterized by elongated, lobulated, hypoechoic structures, an echogenic capsule and an echogenic central line, measuring 1.05±0.7cm in width. The testis were characterized by fusiform, hypoechoic structures, homogeneous echotexture, measuring 2.31±0.79cm in length and 0.6±0.23cm in width. Ovarian follicles were seen in different stages, 0.67±0.39cm wide and 0.73±0.38cm long. No differences were found between species of syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs of the coelomic cavity. The ultrasound examination proved to be a safe, non-invasive and efficient technique for characterizing the organs of the coelomic cavity of snakes.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi realizar a avaliação ultrassonográfica de órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes hígidas da família Boidae. Para isto, foram avaliadas 15 serpentes adultas de cinco espécies: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi e Epicrates crassus. Os animais foram contidos fisicamente para a realização do exame. Após aplicação de gel acústico sobre as escamas, o transdutor foi posicionado no plano frontal da cavidade celomática. Foram utilizados transdutores microconvexo e linear em 10MHz. O exame ultrassonográfico foi conduzido no sentido craniocaudal, com cortes longitudinais e transversais para avaliar sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos. O fígado se apresentou bilobulado, hiperecoico, ecotextura homogênea, cápsula hiperecoica, com lobo hepático medindo 1,15±0,64cm de largura, e presença de uma veia central hepática, medindo 0,44±0,21cm de diâmetro. A vesícula biliar foi caracterizada como uma estrutura anecoica de paredes ecogênicas e dimensões de 2,91±1,18cm x 1,38±0,84cm(comprimento x largura). O estômago apresentou-se com o aspecto pregueado e linear, ecogênico, com paredes hipoecoicas medindo 0,3±0,07cm de largura. O esplenopâncreasse apresentou como uma estrutura circular e ecogênica, ecotextura homogênea e medindo de 1,18±0,62cm de largura e 1,56±0,88cm de comprimento. Os rins se caracterizaram por estruturas alongadas, lobuladas, hipoecoicas, cápsula ecogênica e uma linha central ecogênica, medindo 1,05±0,7cm de largura. Os testículos foram caracterizados por estruturas fusiformes, hipoecoicas, ecotextura homogênea, medindo 2,31±0,79cm de comprimento e 0,6±0,23cm de largura. Foram visualizados folículos ovarianos em diferentes estágios, de 0,67±0,39cm de largura e 0,73±0,38cm de comprimento. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre espécies de sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos da cavidade celomática. O exame ultrassonográfico demonstrou-se uma técnica segura, não invasiva e eficiente para caracterização dos órgãos da cavidade celomática de serpentes.(AU)