Evidencia de Chlamydia no psittaci en psitácidos en cautiverio de Venezuela / Evidence of non-psittaci Chlamydia in parrots in captivity in Venezuela / Evidência de Chlamydia não psittaci em psitacídeos em cativeiro na Venezuela

Resumen Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) es una bacteria intracelular obligada causante de la clamidiosis aviar, capaz de infectar a más de 460 especies de aves. Sin embargo, desde 2008 han sido identificadas otras especies chlamydiales en aves de vida libre y en cautiverio. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo la identificación de un segmento del gen 16s ADNr de Cp a través de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa anidada en dos psitácidos del género Ara ararauna y Ara chloropterus de un parque zoológico de Venezuela. Los resultados revelaron que las aves no poseían ADN compatible con Cp, pero sí para la familia Chlamydiaceae. En este sentido se aporta evidencia de la presencia de otra posible especie chlamydial en las Ara muestreadas en estado portador asintomático. Dichas aves provenían de decomisos y se desconocía su origen. Estos factores favorecen la infección por otra especie de Chlamydia. Si bien los productos de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) obtenidos no fueron secuenciados, existen altas probabilidades de ser una Chlamydia no psittaci debido a que un elevado número de reportes a escala mundial afirman la capacidad de transmisión del resto de las especies en aves. En este sentido es necesaria la notificación de los hallazgos chlamydiales para el estudio de su capacidad patogénica en nuevos reservorios, riesgo zoonótico y la protección de la fauna silvestre y en cautiverio, principalmente la que se encuentra en riesgo de extinción.

Abstract Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) is an obligate intracellular bacterium that causes avian chlamydiosis, capable of infecting more than 460 bird species. However, since 2008, other chlamydial species have been identified in free-living and captive birds. This study aimed to identify a segment of the 16s rDNA gene of Cp using nested polymerase chain reaction in two Psittacidae birds of the genus Ara ararauna and Ara chloropterus from a zoo in Venezuela. The results revealed that these birds did not have DNA compatible with Cp, but they did have for the Chlamydiaceae family. Thus, the paper evidences the presence of another possible chlamydial species in the sampled Ara in an asymptomatic carrier state. These birds were confiscated and their origin was unknown. These factors favor infection by another species of Chlamydia. Although the resulting polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products were not sequenced, there is a high probability of being a non-psittaci Chlamydia, because a large number of reports on a global scale affirm the transmission capacity of the rest of the species in birds. In this sense, it is necessary to report chlamydial findings in order to study their pathogenic capacity in new reservoirs, zoonotic risk, and the protection of wildlife and animals in captivity, mainly those at risk of extinction.

Resumo Chlamydia psittaci (Cp) é uma bactéria intracelular obrigada causadora da clamidiose aviar, capaz de infectar a mais de 460 espécies de aves. Entretanto, desde 2008 foram identificadas outras espécies chlamydiais em aves de vida livre e em cativeiro. O presente estudo teve como objetivo a identificação de um segmento do gene 16s ADNr de Cp através da reação em cadeia da polimerase aninhados em dois psitacídeos do género Ara ararauna e Ara chloropterus de um parque zoológico da Venezuela. Os resultados revelaram que as aves não possuíam DNA compatível com Cp, mas sim para a família Chlamydiaceae. Neste sentido se aponta evidência da presença de outra possível espécie chlamydial nas Ara amostradas em estado portador assintomático. Tais aves provinham de apreensões e se desconhecia sua origem. Estes fatores favorecem a infecção por outra espécie de Chlamydia. Ainda que os produtos de Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) obtidos não foram sequenciados, existem altas probabilidades de ser uma Chlamydia não psittaci devido a que um elevado número de relatos em escala mundial afirma a capacidade de transmissão do resto das espécies em aves. Neste sentido é necessária a notificação das descobertas chlamydiais para o estudo de sua capacidade patogênica em novos reservatórios risco zoonótico e a proteção da fauna silvestre e em cativeiro, principalmente a que se encontra em risco de extinção.

Proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) outbreak in blue-and-gold macaws (Ara ararauna) in the State of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil / Surto de doença da dilatação proventricular em araras-canindé (Ara ararauna) no estado de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil

Proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) is a lethal and important disease of captive psittacine birds, and affects a wide range of species, including endangered ones, and lacks an effective treatment. This report describes PDD in three blue-and-gold macaws (Ara ararauna) in southern Brazil. All three macaws originated from the same aviary and presented similar clinical signs including anorexia, apathy, emaciation and prostration. At necropsy, one of the macaws presented an enlarged proventriculus. Histologically, lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates was observed in the ganglia and nerves of the esophagus, crop, proventriculus, ventriculus, heart, adrenal glands, and adrenal medulla of all three cases. Two macaws had meningoencephalomyelitis and one had myocarditis. Immunohistochemistry identified PaBV antigen in the brain, proventricular, ventricular ganglia, and epicardial ganglia, and cardiomyocytes of all three macaws.(AU)

A doença da dilatação proventricular (PDD) e uma importante e fatal doença de psitacídeos de cativeiro, que afeta uma grande variedade de espécies e não tem um tratamento efetivo até o momento. Este relato descreve PDD em três araras canindé (Ara ararauna) no sul do Brasil. Todas as três araras eram provenientes do mesmo criatório e apresentaram sinais clínicos semelhantes incluindo anorexia, apatia, emaciação e prostração. Na necropsia, uma das araras apresentou proventrículo dilatado. No exame histopatológico, infiltrados linfoplasmacitários foram observados em gânglios e nervos do esôfago, inglúvio, proventrículo, moela, coração, glândulas adrenais e rins de todos os casos. Adicionalmente, meningoencefalomielite foi observada em duas araras e miocardite em uma. A imuno-histoquímica identificou antígenos de PaBV no encéfalo, coração, proventrículo e moela de todos os casos.(AU)

Protective effect of ß-glucan and glutamine on intestinal and immunological damage in mice induced by cytarabine (Ara-C) / Efeito protetor do ß-glucano e glutamina em lesões intestinais e imunológicas induzidas por ciratabina (Ara-C) em camundongos

Recently, glutamine and ß-glucan have been demonstrated to play an important role in modulation of the immune system and in promoting intestinal health benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this intervention on inflammatory responses and intestinal health in mice orally pretreated with soluble Saccharomyces cerevisiae derived 1,3/1,6-ß-glucan (80mg/kg) with or without glutamine (150mg/kg) and then challenged with cytarabine (Ara-C) (15mg/kg). Improvements in villi and crypts were not observed in the ß-glucan group. The intestinal morphometry in the glutamine group showed the best results. ß-glucan in combination with glutamine presented the highest values of IL-1ß and IL-10 and lowest values for leukocytes and INF-γ. Based on these results, combined ß-glucan and glutamine pretreatment reduced intestinal inflammation and improved the immune response after Ara-C challenge.(AU)

Recentemente, glutamina e ß-glucano têm demonstrado desempenhar um papel importante na modulação do sistema imune e na promoção de benefícios para a saúde intestinal. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito dessa intervenção sobre as respostas inflamatórias e saúde intestinal de camundongos pré- tratados por via oral com 1,3/1,6-ß-glucano (80mg/kg) derivado de Saccharomyces cerevisiae com ou sem glutamina (150mg/kg) e posteriormente desafiados com citarabina (Ara-C) (15mg/kg). Melhoras em vilosidades e criptas não foram observadas no grupo de tratamento com ß-glucano. A morfometria intestinal no grupo de tratamento com glutamina apresentou os melhores resultados. O grupo em que foi utilizado ß-glucano em combinação com glutamina apresentou os maiores valores de IL-1ß e IL -10 e valores mais baixos para os leucócitos e INF-γ. Com base nestes resultados, o pré-tratamento de ß-glucano combinado com glutamina reduziu a inflamação intestinal e melhorou a resposta imune após o desafio com Ara-C.(AU)

Reference values for selected ophthalmic tests of the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna) / Valores de referência para selecionados testes oftálmicos para a arara canindé (Ara araruna)

The aim of this study was to establish reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests in healthy blue-and-yellow macaws. We investigated a total of 35 adult macaws (70 eyes) of undetermined sex and with an average weight of 1 kg, who were living in captivity in the Federal District, Brazil. Tear production using the Schirmer tear test (STT), normal conjunctival flora, intraocular pressure (IOP) using a rebound tonometer and horizontal palpebral fissure length (HPFL) were evaluated. In this study, 84.1% of samples were positive for microbial growth. Bacteria, fungi and yeasts were isolated, and Staphylococcus spp. (21.9%) and Bacillus spp. (26.8%) were the most frequently isolated microorganisms. The mean value for STT was 7.6±4.6mm/min in the right eye (OD) and 6.6±4.4mm/min in the left eye (OS) (median = 7,11±0,76mm/min). Mean IOP was 11.4±2.5mm Hg OD and 11.6±1.8mm Hg OS (median = 11.49±0.22mm Hg), prior to anesthesia, and 7.6±2.4mm Hg OD and 7.8±1.8mm Hg OS (median 7.71±0.08mmHg) after anesthesia. The IOP was significantly lower when the animals were under anesthesia as compared to when they were conscious (p≤0.05). Horizontal palpebral fissure length was 11.7±0.1mm OD and 11.8±0.1mm OS (median = 11.72±0.07mm). The STT showed a positive correlation with palpebral fissure measurement for this species. These selected ophthalmic reference values will be particularly useful in diagnosing pathological changes in the eyes of blue-and-yellow macaws.(AU)

Objetivou-se determinar os valores normais para testes oftálmicos diagnósticos selecionados para a Arara Canindé. Trinta e cinco Ara ararauna (70 olhos), de sexo indeterminado, adultas, com peso médio de 1kg e provenientes de cativeiro no Distrito Federal, foram avaliadas. Aferiram-se a produção lacrimal pelo Teste lacrimal de Schirmer (TLS), a avaliação microbiológica da conjuntiva ocular, a pressão intra-ocular (PIO) utilizando a tonometria de rebote e o comprimento horizontal da rima palpebral Neste estudo 84.1% das amostras analisadas foram positivas para crescimento microbiológico. Bactérias, fungos e hifas foram isolados e Staphylococcus spp. (21.9%) e Bacillus spp. (26.8%) foram isolados mais frequentemente. Os valores médios do teste de Lacrimal de Schirmer (TLS) foram de 7.6±4.6 e 6.6±4.4mm/min para olhos direito (OD) e esquerdo (OE), respectivamente (média = 7,11±0,76mm/min). A pressão intraocular média foi de 11.4±2.5 (OD) e 11.6±1.8mmHg (OE) anteriormente à anestesia (média 11,49±0,22 mmHg) e 7.6 ± 2.4 mmHg (OD) e 7.8 ± 1.8 mm Hg (OE) (média 7,71±0,08mm Hg) após a anestesia, verificando-se que a PIO foi significativamente menor quando os animais se encontravam sob anestesia comparativamente ao momento em que não estavam anestesiados. O comprimento horizontal da rima horizontal palpebral foi de 11.7±0.1mm OD e de 11.8±0.1mm OE (média 11,72±0,07mm). Verificou-se correlação positiva do TLS com o comprimento da fissura palpebral para a espécie estudada. Estes valores de referencia serão úteis no diagnóstico de alterações oculares da Arara Canindé.(AU)

Mecanismos de resitência as antraciclinas e a citarabina em leucemia mielóide aguda / [Mechanisms of resistance to anthracyclines and cytarabine in leukemia acute myeloid]

A leucemia mielóide aguda (LMA) é uma doença heterogênea em relação às características citogenéticas, moleculares, resposta ao tratamento, sobrevida global e livre de doença. A maioria dos pacientes apresenta recidiva precoce e evolui para o óbito devido à resistência à quimioterapia. O tratamento atual, baseado na associação das antraciclinas Idarrubicina (IDA) ou Daunorrubicina (DNR) com a Citarabina (Ara-c), se mantém por mais de 40 anos apesar dos resultados insatisfatórios. Objetivos: Avaliar os mecanismos de resistência aos quimioterápicos IDA, DNR e Ara-c, em linhagens celulares e em amostras de pacientes com LMA. Metodologia e Resultados: O perfil de resistência das linhagens HL60, Kasumi e U937 foi comparado por imunofenotipagem, citogenética, expressão e atividade das proteínas transportadoras de efluxo: glicoproteína P (Pgp), MRP1 e BCRP e expressão de proteínas envolvidas com a evasão da apoptose. Para avaliar a sensibilidade aos quimioterápicos foram utilizados o ensaio de viabilidade celular (MTT), fragmentação do DNA e ativação de caspase 3. As linhagens celulares foram comparadas, entre si em relação à sensibilidade e resistência aos fármacos. A IDA foi mais eficiente em reduzir a viabilidade celular na linhagem HL60, a IDA e a DNR na linhagem Kasumi, sendo o Ara-c o mais eficiente em reduzir a viabilidade na linhagem U937. O perfil de resistência da linhagem HL60R foi analisado através de um array de proteínas fosforiladas, onde encontramos diversas vias de sinalização inibidas na linhagem resistente como a via de sinalização das MAPKs JNK e p38, importantes para o processo de indução de apoptose pelos quimioterápicos. Foi verificado que a ativação de tais vias de sinalização pelos quimioterápicos esta diminuída nas linhagens de LMA resistentes em comparação com as linhagens sensíveis. As vias de sinalização de JNK e p38 nas linhagens de LMA foram inibidas com RNA de interferência. Tal inibição resultou na redução da sensibilidade aos quimioterápicos na linhagem Kasumi e U937, aumento da expressão da Pgp e do miR-27a. A análise das amostras de pacientes com LMA mostrou alta expressão do miR-27a quando comparadas com as amostras dos doadores saudáveis. No entanto, a expressão do miR-27a apresentou baixa correlação com a Ppg e diferenças na sobrevida global apenas em 12 meses após o tratamento. A técnica do CRISPR foi utilizada para editar/silenciar os genes JNK e p38 a fim de corroborar os resultados com o silenciamento. Nossos dados sugerem que alterações na fosforilação das MAPKs JNK e p38, envolvidas no processo de indução de apoptose, estão associadas à resistência aos quimioterápicos na LMA.

Experimental study on influence of cytarabine on K562 cells proliferation and apoptosis by autophagy pathway / 重庆医学

Objective To investigate the effect of cytarabine (Ara-C) on proliferation and apoptosis of human erythroleukemia K562 cell linethrough autophagy pathway and its possible mechanism.Methods The cellular proliferation inhibiting rate after different concentrations of Ara-C acting for 24,48 h was detected by CCK-8;the cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cy tometry(FCM);the chromatin morphological changes in nucleus were observed by Hoechst staining;the cell acidic autophagy vesicles were detected by acridine orange staining;the expression changes of p38 and p-p38 proteins were detected by Western blot.The expressions of autophagy apoptosis related gene and protein were examined by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence.Results The CCK-8 results found that different concentrations of Ara-C could inhibit the proliferation of K562 cells with dose-and time-dependent manners.FCM detecting indicated that Ara-C could increase apoptosis and could arrest the cell cycle at S phase;Hoechest staining showed that K562cells had typical apoptotic morphological changes after Ara-C treating;the Acridine orange staining revealed that Ara-C caused the inclease of the green fluorescene in cells of the Ara-C group,and the cells appeared a great number of acidic autophagy vesicles;RT-PCR results showed that Ara-C up-regulated the expression of autophagy key genes Beclin-1,LC3A and LC3B;Western blot results showed that Ara-C increased the expression of phosphorylated p-p38.Immunofluorescence results showed the expression of LC3B was significantly enhanced.Conclusion Ara-C canactivate p-p38 mediated K562 cells to generate autophagy,then inhibit the cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis.

Farmacoepidemiología de los fármacos antagonistas de los receptores de angiotensina (ARA) II en el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial esencial. méxico / Pharmacoepidemiology of antagonist receptors of the angiotensin (ARA) II in the treatment of essential hypertension. mexico

Epidemiología de la hipertensión arterial: A nivel mundial, se reporta que la prevalencia de hipertensión arterial en población adulta se encuentra entre un 20-27%. Tratamiento farmacológico: Los ARA II ejercen su acción a través del bloqueo de los receptores AT1 de la angiotensina II de forma específica y altamente selectiva y actúan inhibiendo los efectos clásicos desfavorables de angiotensina II. Así, los ARA II antagonizan la acción de la angiotensina II producida por cualquier vía enzimática y no actúan sobre la degradación de las quininas, por lo que no condicionan un aumento de sus niveles en sangre. Además, al bloquear los receptores ATI los ARA II permiten que la angiotensina II circulante se pueda ligar a los receptores AT2, lo que puede añadir un efecto adicional potencialmente muy beneficioso. Estudios de morbimortalidad en Hipertensión con ARA II: La eficacia de los ARA II para disminuir la tensión arterial está demostrada desde hace varios años, tanto en HTA leve como moderada o severa, y en múltiples estudios comparativos estos fármacos muestran una eficacia antihipertensiva similar a la de los IECAS, antagonistas del calcio o betabloqueantes. Por tanto, ante una eficacia antihipertensiva similar y un mejor perfil de tolerabilidad, los ARA II pueden considerarse una familia farmacológica de gran utilidad en el tratamiento actual de la HTA. Conclusiones: La conclusión de los autores de diversos estudios es que los IECA y los ARA-II tienen una efectividad antihipertensiva similar y los IECA, una peor tolerabilidad

Epidemiology of hypertension: Epidemiology of hypertension globally, it is reported that the prevalence of hypertension in adult population is between 20-27%. Pharmacotherapy: ARA II exert their action by blocking AT1 receptors Angiotensin II in a specific and highly selective and act by inhibiting the adverse effects angiotesin II classic. Thus, antagonize the action of angiotensin II produced by any means and do not act on enzymatic degradation of kinins, so do not condition an increase in blood levels. In addition to the ATI receptor blockade ARA II allow the circulating Angiotensin II may be linked to the AT2 receptor, which can add an additional potentially beneficial. Studies of morbidity and mortality in hypertension with ARA II: The efficacy of ARA II for lowering blood pressure is well established for several years, both in mild hypertension and moderate or severe and multiple studies comparing these drugs have shown similar antihypertensive efficacy to that of IECA inhibitors, calcium antagonists or beta-blockers. Therefore, given similar antihypertensive efficacy and better tolerability profile the ARA II may be considered a very useful drug family in the current treatment of hypertension. Conclusions: The conclusion of the authors of several studies is that IECA inhibitors and ARA II have similar antihypertensive effectiveness and IECA inhibitors, poorer tolerability

Beach almond (Terminalia catappa, Combretaceae) seed production and predation by scarlet macaws (Ara macao) and variegated squirrels (Sciurus variegatoides) / Producción de semillas y depredación del almendro de playa (Terminalia catappa, Combretaceae) por lapas rojas (Ara macao) y ardillas chizas (Sciurus variegatoides)

Knowledge of ecological impacts of exotic beach almond (Terminalia catappa) in the central Pacific of Costa Rica are little known, but studies have found this species to be a potentially important food source for endangered scarlet macaws (Ara macao). In this study, reproductive phenology and seed predation by variegated squirrels (Sciurus variegatoides) and scarlet macaws were measured during March and April 2011 on beaches of central Pacific coastal Costa Rica. Seed productivity and predation levels were quantified on a weekly basis for 111 beach almond trees to assess the importance of beach almond as a food source for scarlet macaws and the extent of resource partitioning between seed predators. Seed production of the trees was great (about 194 272 seeds) and approximately 67% of seeds were predated by seed predators. Macaws consumed an estimated 49% of seeds while squirrels consumed 18%. Additionally, evidence of resource partitioning between squirrels and macaws was found. Scarlet macaws preferred to feed on the northern side and edge of the canopy while squirrels preferred to feed on the southern and inside parts of the canopy. Both species ate most seeds on the ocean side of the tree. Despite the status of this tree as an exotic species, the beach almond appears to be an important resource for scarlet macaw population recovery. The resource produced by this tree should be taken into account as reforestation efforts continue in Costa Rica. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (3): 929-938. Epub 2014 September 01.

El conocimiento de los impactos ecológicos del almendro de playa exótico (Terminalia catappa) en el Pacífico Central de Costa Rica son poco conocidos, pero los estudios han encontrado que esta especie es una fuente de alimento potencialmente importante para la lapa roja (Ara macao), en peligro de extinción. En este estudio, se midieron la fenología reproductiva y la depredación de semillas por las ardillas (Sciurus variegatoides) y lapas rojas durante marzo y abril 2011 en las playas de la costa Pacífica Central de Costa Rica. Los niveles de productividad y depredación de semillas se cuantificaron semanalmente para 111 almendros de playa, para evaluar la importancia del almendro de playa como fuente de alimento para la lapa roja y el grado de repartición de recursos entre los depredadores de semillas. La producción de semillas de los árboles fue alta (cerca de 194 272 semillas) y aproximadamente el 67% de las semillas fueron comidas por los depredadores, las lapas rojas consumen un estimado de 49% de las semillas, mientras que las ardillas consumen el 18%. Adicionalmente, se encontró evidencia de la repartición de recursos entre las ardillas y las lapas. Las lapas rojas prefieren alimentarse en el lado norte y el borde de la copa, mientras que las ardillas prefieren las regiones del sur y el interior de la copa. Ambas especies se comieron la mayoría de las semillas en la parte del árbol con lado al mar. A pesar de la situación de este árbol como una especie exótica, la playa de almendras parece ser un recurso importante para la recuperación de la población de lapas rojas. El recurso que produce este árbol debe tomarse en cuenta para continuar con los esfuerzos de reforestación en Costa Rica.

Isolation of Salmonella spp. in captive Psittaciformes from zoos and a commercial establishment of Fortaleza, Brazil / Isolamento de Salmonella spp. em Psittaciformes de zoológicos e estabelecimento comercial de Fortaleza, Brasil

This study showed a low prevalence of Salmonella spp. in captive psittacines from zoos and a commercial establishment of Fortaleza. None of the isolated serotypes (S. Lexington, S. Saintpaul and S. Newport) have yet been reported in Amazona aestiva, Ara chloroptera or Melopsittacus undulatus. However, the fact that most birds presented negative for Salmonella spp. may not imply the absence of this pathogen in these birds, since the intermittent excretion is a well-known characteristic of this microorganism...

A manutenção de aves em cativeiro reúne condições que favorecem a disseminação de doenças infecciosas, sendo a Salmonella uma dessas doenças infecciosas que acomete os psitacídeos. Portanto o objetivo do presente estudo foi isolar e identificar Salmonella spp. em Psittaciformes mantidos em criatórios comerciais e conservacionistas da Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza. Para o estudo, foram coletados swabs cloacais de 182 psitacídeos clinicamente sadios. Os resultados mostraram que três psitacídeos avaliados (1,65%) foram positivos: Amazona aestiva (Salmonella Lexington), Ara chloroptera (Salmonella Saintpaul) e Melopsittacus undulatus (Salmonella Newport). De acordo com a literatura científica, não há registro desses sorotipos em psitacídeos. Esta pesquisa evidenciou uma baixa prevalência de Salmonella spp. em Psittaciformes mantidos em criatórios comerciais e conservacionistas da Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza...

Plant food resources exploited by Blue-and-Yellow Macaws (Ara ararauna, Linnaeus 1758) at an urban area in Central Brazil / Plantas alimentares exploradas pela Arara Canindé (Ara ararauna, Linnaeus 1758) em uma área urbana do Brasil Central

In this study, we described the food plants available to Blue-and-Yellow Macaws (Ara ararauna), its feeding habits and the relationship between these parameters with feeding niche breadth. We established four transects, each one 12 km long, to sample fruiting plants and the feeding habits of this macaw (monthly 40 h, of observations), at the urban areas of Três Lagoas (Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil). During all studied months, macaws foraged for palm fruits, mainly Syagrus oleracea and Acrocomia aculeata fruit pulp, both available all year, as well as Caryocar brasiliense and Anacardium occidentale seeds, in the wet season. The year-round feeding activity of macaws suggests Três Lagoas city as an adequate feeding area. The permanent availability of plant food resources, potentially, resulted from the diverse fruiting patterns of exotic and, mainly, native plant species, which provided a variety of suitable fruit patches.

Neste estudo, nós descrevemos as plantas alimentares disponíveis para Arara-Canindé (Ara ararauna), sua atividade alimentar, bem como a relação desses parâmetros com a amplitude do seu nicho alimentar. Para tanto, estabelecemos quatro trajetos, cada um com 12 km, dispersos na área urbana de Três Lagoas (Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil). A partir deles amostramos, mensalmente durante 40 h, as espécies vegetais que frutificavam e a atividade alimentar dessa ave. As araras exploraram frutos em todos os meses do ano e consumiram principalmente frutos comuns e nutritivos. Entre os itens mais explorados pelas araras estiveram as sementes de Anacardium occidentale e Caryocar brasiliense, cuja frutificação ocorreu durante a estação chuvosa, bem como a polpa dos frutos das palmeiras Syagrus oleracea e Acrocomia aculeata, que frutificaram o ano todo. A presença de araras forrageando todos os meses em Três Lagoas sugere a adequação dessa área urbana como local de alimentação. A disponibilidade de recursos alimentares ao longo do ano, potencialmente, decorreu da combinação da variedade dos padrões de frutificação em espécies vegetais exóticas e, sobretudo, nativas que proporcionaram oferta abundante e variada de recurso alimentar.

Docosahexaenoic Acid Reduces Cyto-Genotoxicity of Cytosine Arabinoside in Normal Mouse Bone Marrow.

Aims: This paper evaluates the use of percentage of micronucleus (MN), polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs), chromosomal aberration (CA) and mitotic index (MI) frequencies in mice bone marrow smears as a method for assessing the ability of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, is an omega-3 fatty acid) to reduce cyto-genotoxicity damage of cytosine arabinoside (ara-C). Ara-C is widely prescribed antineoplastic drug, especially for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. It is a pyrimidine analog, in which the ribose sugar of cytidine is replaced by arabinose moiety. Methodology: Positive control group of mice was only given intraperitoneal dose of ara- C of 75 mg/kg (every 12 h for 5 days); this dose was selected in accordance with its human therapeutic values. Negative control group of mice group only received 0.1 ml sterile distilled water every 12 hours for 5 days. Three treatment groups of mice were given same dose of ara-C in addition to three different doses of DHA (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of mice). Experimental data were analyzed using (Mann–Whitney U-test) to compare values of positive and negative controls. However, Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Dunn’s multiple comparisons test were used to compare values of treatments with positive control. All values were accepted at p = 0.05. Results: When 75 mg/kg ara-C was applied, positive control group showed a significant increase in MN and CA, a high decrease in PCE, and a significant decrease in MI. When DHA was used with ara-C, the picture is changed, particularly at a medium dose of DHA of 250 mg/kg where a decrease MN and CA and an increase in PCEs in addition to an increase in MI were observed. Conclusion: DHA at 250 mg/kg was able to reduce cytogenotoxicity of ara-C, and lead to protecting the normal proliferating cells in bone marrow from the damaging effect of ara-C and hence improving therapy by ara-C.

Sorting,identification and enrichment of side population cells in acute monocytic leukemia THP-1 Cells / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective To assay and determine whether the human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1 contains side populations (SP) cells,and to increase the proportion of SP cells using cytarabine (Ara-C).Methods Fluorescent microscope and flow cytometry (FCM) were employed for detecting the percentage of SP cells in THP-1 cells.Then,SP and non-SP (NSP) subpopulations were collected and identified.Finally,THP-1 cells were incubated with different concentrations of Ara-C for 24 hours and detected the proportion of SP cells,respectively.Results The results demonstrated that the percentage of SP cells was (1.81 ± 0.99) ％ in THP-1 cells.A majority of the SP cells remained in the G0/G1 phase,and the expressions of CD34 + and CD34 + CD38-and the proliferative ability of the SP cells were higher than those of NSP cells (P ＜ 0.05).The mRNA expression of multidrug resistance genes (ABCG2,ABCB1),apoptosis regulation genes (Bcl-2) and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio of SP cells were higher than those of NSP cells.SP cells have been shown to be more tumorigenic than NSP cells.After co-culture with Ara-C,the proportion of SP cells increased significantly and presented in a concentration-dependent manor.Conclusions All of these findings suggest that the THP-1 cell line contains SP cells and the SP cells possess some intrinsic stem cell properties.The proportion of SP cells can be increased when co-cultured with Ara C,and this technique is a useful and important application for the study of LSCs.

Diagnostic significance of urethral sphincter electromyography and external anal sphincter electromyography in patients with multiple system atrophy / 中华神经科杂志

Objective To assess the significance of urethral sphincter electromyography (US-EMG) and external anal sphincter electromyography (EAS-EMG) for the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA).Methods US-EMG and EAS-EMG were performed in 9 patients who were diagnosed as MSA.Duration,motor unit action potentials amplitude,polyphasicity,as well as recruited pattern and amplitude during powerful contraction were recorded and analyzed.Results Among 9 patients who were diagnosed as MSA,7 cases showed neural injury by both US-EMG and EAS-EMG.There was significant difference of electromyographic findings between US-EMG group and EAS-EMG group (average volatility (μV):1063.44 ±499.92 vs 634.89 ±265.07; polyphasic wave:0(0,20％ ) vs 57％ (28％,63％ ) ; t =2.567,P=0.033;t =2.833,P=0.012).Conclusions Although US-EMG may be difficult to perform,US-EMG may have the same specificity as EAS-EMG for the diagnosis of MSA,especially for the diagnosis of MSA patients only with urination disorders,who are involved in Onuf neclear according to some of the abnormal indexes.

Changes in Major Peanut Allergens Under Different pH Conditions

Regional dietary habits and cooking methods affect the prevalence of specific food allergies; therefore, we determined the effects of various pH conditions on major peanut allergens. Peanut kernels were soaked overnight in commercial vinegar (pH 2.3) or acetic acid solutions at pH 1.0, 3.0, or 5.0. Protein extracts from the sera of seven patients with peanut-specific IgE levels >15 kUA/L were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and immunolabeling. A densitometer was used to quantify and compare the allergenicity of each protein. The density of Ara h 1 was reduced by treatment with pH 1.0, 3.0, or 5.0 acetic acid, or commercial vinegar. Ara h 2 remained largely unchanged after treatment with pH 5.0 acetic acid, and was decreased following treatment with pH 1.0, 2.3, or 3.0 acetic acid. Ara h 3 and Ara h 6 appeared as a thick band after treatment with pH 1.0 acetic acid and commercial vinegar. IgE-binding intensities to Ara h 1, Ara h 2, and Ara h 3 were significantly reduced after treatment with pH 1.0 acetic acid or commercial vinegar. These data suggest that treatment with acetic acid at various pH values affects peanut allergenicity and may explain the low prevalence of peanut allergy in Korea.

Genetic evaluation of the mating system in the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna, Aves, Psittacidae) by DNA fingerprinting

More than 90 percent of birds are socially monogamous, although genetic studies indicate that many are often not sexually monogamous. In the present study, DNA fingerprinting was used to estimate the genetic relationships between nestlings belonging to the same broods to evaluate the mating system in the socially monogamous macaw, Ara ararauna. We found that in 10 of 11 broods investigated, the nestlings showed genetic similarity levels congruent with values expected among full-sibs, suggesting that they shared the same parents. However, in one brood, the low genetic similarity observed between nestlings could be a result of intraspecific brood parasitism, intraspecific nest competition or extra-pair paternity. These results, along with available behavioral and life-history data, imply that the blue-and-yellow macaw is not only socially, but also genetically monogamous. However, the occurrence of eventual cases of extra-pair paternity cannot be excluded.

ABC de la nefropatía diabética: una guía práctica para el médico general / ABC of diabetic nephropathy: a practical guide for the general practitioner

La nefropatía diabética constituye una patología con elevada morbimortalidad y es la principal causa de ingreso a tratamiento de diálisis. Esta revisión tiene por objeto describir en forma concisa y práctica aquellos aspectos más relevantes en la evaluación y tratamiento de la nefropatía diabética, sin dejar de lado los aspectos preventivos cuyo respaldo de evidencia es robusto. Si bien está escrito desde la óptica del nefrólogo no debe perderse de vista una concepción y manejo integral del enfermo.

Diabetic nephropathy is the main cause of end stage renal failure. This review, intended to the general practitioner, aims to describe in a concise form the most relevant issues in the management of diabetic nephropathy. Although written from the stand point of view of the nephrologist, a multidisciplinary approach is warranted.

Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao, Psittaciformes: Psittacidae) Nest Characteristics in the Osa Peninsula Conservation Area (ACOSA), Costa Rica

The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is an endangered species. In Costa Rica, the Scarlet Macaw population of the Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC, n =432 individuals) has undergone considerable study and has been used effectively as a flagship species for regional conservation. Costa Rica’s only other viable Scarlet Macaw population, located in the Osa Peninsula Conservation Area (ACOSA, n=800-1200 individuals), remains virtually unstudied. We studied ACOSA Scarlet Macaw nest cavities from February 19th to March 22nd 2006. Through informal interviews with park guards and residents, we found a total of 57 potential nests in 52 trees. Eleven nests were reported as frequently poached. Scarlet Macaws used 14 identified tree species, ten of which are unrecorded in Costa Rica. The most common nesting trees were Caryocar costaricense (n=12, 24%), Schizolobium parahyba (n=9, 18.0%), Ceiba pentandra (n=7, 14.0%) and Ficus sp. (n=5, 10.0%). We compare nesting characteristics to those recorded in ACOPAC. A combination of bottom-up and top-down strategies are necessary to ensure the Scarlet Macaw’s long-term success, including environmental education in local schools, community stewardship of active nests, and the advertisement of stricter penalties for poaching. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (1-2): 387-393. Epub 2009 June 30.

Effects of FLAG regimen and IA regimen for acute myeloblastic leukaemia cells on P-glycoprotein-positive and P-glycoprotein-negative / 白血病·淋巴瘤

Objective To explore in vitro effects and the mechanism for FLAG regimen compared with IA regimen in P-glycoprotein-positive and -negative acute myeloblastic leukemia(AML) cell lines. Methods The expression of P-glycoprotein in K562 and K562/A02 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. The effects of FLAG and IA on the proliferation of K562 and K562/A02 cells were detected by MTT assay. The Ara-CTP and Ara-C levels in those cells were measured by HPLC,the gene expression of hENT1 in K562 and K562/A02 cells was detected by real-time PCR. Results The positive rates of P- glycoprotein were (1.32±0.24)% in K562 cell and (97.66±3.77)% in K562/A02 cell, respectively. The expression of P- glycoprotein had no change after treated with FLAG or IA. The cytotoxicity to K562 of IA was better than FLAG [(84.41±9.33) % v.s (73.17±13.20)%, P<0.05], and the cytotoxicity to K562/A02 of FLAG was better than IA [(70.55±11.32)% v.s (48.46±12.81)%, P<0.01]. Ara-C and Ara-CTP accumulation and hENT1 expression in AML cells treated with FLAG were higher than that treated with IA. Conclusion P-glycoprotein-positive AML cells are more sensitive to FLAG regimen than IA regimen. The biochemical modulation of Ara-CTP and Ara-C may be the major mechanism.

Effects of Cooking Methods on Peanut Allergenicity / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

PURPOSE: Peanut allergy is a major cause of fatal food-induced anaphylaxis. Cooking methods can affect the allergic properties of peanut proteins. The aim of this study was to determine the allergenicity of peanut according to cooking methods. METHODS: Eight kinds of peanut were included in the study: raw peanut, boiled peanut, roasted peanut (10 min, 20 min and 30 min), peanut butter, fried peanut and vinegarish peanut. The proteins were extracted with PBS and analyzed using the SDS-PAGE IgE immunoblot assay with pooled sera from 8 patients with atopic dermatitis. These patients had peanut- specific IgE levels greater than 15 kU/L, which were measured by the CAP-FEIA. RESULTS: The SDS-PAGE IgE immunoblot assay revealed more intense protein bands of Ara h 2 in roasted peanut and peanut butter than in raw, boiled, fried and vinegarish peanut. The protein band of Ara h 1 was not undetected in fried and vinegarish peanut. Ara h 3 had a stable band pattern in all samples, but there was the most prominent band at 37-40 kDa in vinegarish peanut. The IgE immunoblot assay revealed that 10 min roasted peanut had more IgE binding to Ara h 2, and there was no IgE binding to Ara h 1 in fried and vinegarish peanut. In vinegarish peanut, there was almost no IgE binding to it. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the roasted peanut may increase the allergenicity of Ara h 2 as compared to Ara h 1. Fried and vinegarish peanut may reduce the allergenicity of peanut.

Parâmetros de bioquímica sérica de machos, fêmeas e filhotes de Araras canindé (Ara ararauna) saudáveis mantidas em cativeiro comercial / Serum biochemical parameters of healthy male, female and young blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara ararauna) bred in captivity

O Brasil possui um considerável número de espécies de psitacídeos catalogados, perfazendo cerca de 80 espécies, sendo que as Araras canindé (Ara ararauna), uma das maiores representantes dessa ordem, podem ser encontradas em florestas nas diversas regiões brasileiras. O Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis (IBAMA) normalizou a comercialização de animais da fauna silvestre provenientes de criadouros e conseqüentemente ocorreu um aumento do número destes animais como de estimação. Atualmente, há pouco conhecimento sobre os parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais de espécies silvestres em cativeiro. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo determinar parâmetros de bioquímica sangüínea de Araras canindé (Ara ararauna) saudáveis de sexo e faixa etária distintas mantidas em um criatório comercial com alimentação e manejo controlados e padronizados. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue de 35 araras canindé (11 filhotes e 24 adultos) e remetidas ao Laboratório de Análises Clínicas Veterinárias da Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF) para determinação dos seguintes indicadores bioquímicos: ácido úrico (AU), albumina (ALB), aspartato aminotransferase (AST), cálcio (Ca), colesterol (Col), creatina quinase (CK), fosfatase alcalina (FA), fósforo inorgânico (Pi), frutosamina (Fru), gama glutamil transferase (GGT), proteínas totais (PT) e uréia (UR). Entre as aves adultas, foram encontradas diferenças significativas nos valores de CK (superior nos machos), Ca e AU (superiores nas fêmeas). Entre aves adultas e filhotes foram constatadas diferenças significativas nos valores de AU, Ca, ALB, COL, FA, Pi e FRU. A maioria das alterações detectadas pode ser relacionada à diferença na dieta fornecida e à condição fisiológica de cada categoria de aves. Os dados obtidos podem ser utilizados como parâmetros de referência para as araras canindé brasileiras.

Several psittacines have been cataloged in Brazil, totaling nearly 80 species. The blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna), the most representative species of the Psittaciformes order, lives in the forest areas of different Brazilian regions. IBAMA, Brazilian environmental protection agency, has authorized the trade of wild animals raised in breeding facilities; consequently, their use as household pets has increased ever since. Currently, too little is known about clinical and laboratory parameters of wild species bred in captivity. The aim of the present study was to determine the serum biochemical parameters of healthy blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara ararauna) of different sexes and ages reared in a commercial breeding facility under controlled and standardized feeding and management practices. Blood samples were collected from 35 blue-and-yellow macaws (11 fledglings and 24 adults) and sent to the Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Pathology of Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF) for measurement of the following biochemical parameters: uric acid (UA), albumin (Alb), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), calcium (Ca), cholesterol (Chol), creatine kinase (CK), alkaline phosphatase (AP), inorganic phosphorus (iP), fructosamine (Fru), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total protein (TP) and urea nitrogen (Ur). There were significant differences among adult macaws with regard to CK levels (higher in males) and to Ca and UA levels (higher in females). Differences were noted among adults and fledglings with respect to UA, Ca, Alb, Chol, AP, iP and Fru. Most of the findings can be ascribed to the different feeding regimens and ages of the birds analyzed. The data obtained herein can be used as reference parameters for Brazilian blue-and-yellow macaws.