Environmental parameters modulate lead chloride toxicity on Artemia salina

Different environmental conditions can influence the effects of toxic agents on living beings. Recently, a series of experiments performed in Artemia salina submitted to different kinds of intoxication have shown that both, isotherapic and succussed watercan change Artemia salina ́s bio resilience at different levels. Moreover, it seems to vary according to the circalunar cycle. Objective:To verify if circalunar phases and water agitation can modify the toxicity of lead chloride on Artemia salina in vitro. Methodology:Artemia salina cysts were exposed to seawater containing 0.04% of lead chloride (equal to EC10 or 10% effective concentration, previously determined in a pilot study) in 96-well culture plates. Thirty-six experimental repetitions were performed in four series to observe the possible effects of adding stirred water, the so-called succussed water, and the moon phases. The hatched cysts were recorded after 48 hours using a digital microscope (1000x magnification) to identify the hatching percentage and the viability and mobility of the born nauplii. Results:The exposition of cysts to PbCl2 led to an increase in the hatching rate, and it was more evident during the full moon (p = 0.00014) The addition of succussed water into the seawater medium reduced this effect to the baseline levels. An increase in mobility was seen in nauplii born from exposed cysts during the full moon (p = 0.00077), but this effect was not affected by the treatment with succussed water. Discussion:Although the effects of lead chloride EC10 on the increase of nauplii hatching were expected, two environmental variables changed the sensitivity of cysts to this harmful stimulus. The circalunar cycle varied the hatching rate according to the moon phase, even in laboratory conditions, and the addition of succussed water into the medium reduced the hatching rate, even with different intensities according to the moon phase. The organization of nano and microbubbles generated after the succussion of water could be related to this protective effect and can explain, at least partially the effects of high diluted preparations on this biological context. Conclusion:Environmental factors, such as the circalunar cycle and products of water agitation, can modulate the adaptative control of hatching in Artemia salina exposed to lead chloride at EC10.

Chloride and sodium ion concentrations in saliva and sweat as a method to diagnose cystic fibrosis / Dosagem da concentração dos íons cloreto e sódio na saliva e no suor para o reconhecimento de pacientes com fibrose cística

Abstract Objective: Cystic fibrosis diagnosis is dependent on the chloride ion concentration in the sweat test (≥ 60 mEq/mL - recognized as the gold standard indicator for cystic fibrosis diagnosis). Moreover, the salivary glands express the CFTR protein in the same manner as sweat glands. Given this context, the objective was to verify the correlation of saliva chloride concentration and sweat chloride concentration, and between saliva sodium concentration and sweat sodium concentration, in patients with cystic fibrosis and healthy control subjects, as a tool for cystic fibrosis diagnosis. Methods: There were 160 subjects enrolled: 57/160 (35.70%) patients with cystic fibrosis and two known CFTR mutations and 103/160 (64.40%) healthy controls subjects. Saliva ion concentration was analyzed by ABL 835 Radiometer® equipment and, sweat chloride concentration and sweat sodium concentration, respectively, by manual titration using the mercurimetric procedure of Schales & Schales and flame photometry. Statistical analysis was performed by the chi-squared test, the Mann -Whitney test, and Spearman's correlation. Alpha = 0.05. Results: Patients with cystic fibrosis showed higher values of sweat chloride concentration, sweat sodium concentration, saliva chloride concentration, and saliva sodium concentration than healthy controls subjects (p-value < 0.001). The correlation between saliva chloride concentration and sweat chloride concentration showed a positive Spearman's Rho (correlation coefficient) = 0.475 (95% CI = 0.346 to 0.587). Also, the correlation between saliva sodium concentration and sweat sodium concentration showed a positive Spearman's Rho = 0.306 (95% CI = 0.158 to 0.440). Conclusions: Saliva chloride concentration and saliva sodium concentration are candidates to be used in cystic fibrosis diagnosis, mainly in cases where it is difficult to achieve the correct sweat amount, and/or CFTR mutation screening is difficult, and/or reference methods for sweat test are unavailable to implement or are not easily accessible by the general population.

Resumo Objetivo: O diagnóstico da fibrose cística depende do valor da concentração de íons de cloreto no teste do suor (≥ 60 mEq/mL - reconhecido como o indicador-padrão para o diagnóstico da doença). Além disso, as glândulas salivares expressam a proteína RTFC igualmente às glândulas sudoríparas. Nesse contexto, nosso objetivo foi verificar a correlação da concentração de cloreto na saliva e a concentração de cloreto no suor e entre a concentração de sódio na saliva e a concentração de sódio no suor em pacientes com fibrose cística e indivíduos controles saudáveis, como uma ferramenta para diagnóstico de fibrose cística. Métodos: Contamos com a participação de 160 indivíduos [57/160 (35,70%) com fibrose cística e duas mutações no gene RTFC conhecidas e 103/160 (64,40%) indivíduos controles saudáveis]. A concentração de íons na saliva foi analisada pelo equipamento ABL 835 da Radiometer® e a concentração de cloreto no suor e sódio no suor, respectivamente, por titulação manual utilizando o método mercurimétrico de Schales & Schales e fotometria de chama. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste qui-quadrado, pelo teste de Mann-Whitney e pela correlação de Spearman. Alpha = 0,05. Resultados: Os pacientes com fibrose cística apresentaram maiores valores na concentração de cloreto no suor, concentração de sódio no suor, concentração de cloreto na saliva e concentração de sódio na saliva do que os indivíduos-controle saudáveis (valor de p < 0,001). A correlação entre as concentrações de cloreto na saliva e cloreto no suor mostrou Rho de Spearman (coeficiente de correlação) positivo = 0,475 (IC de 95% = 0,346 a 0,587). Além disso, a correlação entre concentração de sódio na saliva e concentração de sódio no suor mostrou Rho de Spearman positivo = 0,306 (IC de 95% = 0,158 a 0,440). Conclusões: A concentração de cloreto na saliva e a concentração de sódio na saliva são candidatas a ser usadas como diagnóstico de fibrose cística, principalmente em casos em que é difícil atingir a quantidade correta de suor, e/ou o exame da mutação RTFC é difícil e/ou o método de referência para o teste do suor não se encontra disponível ou não é de fácil acesso ao público em geral.

Excreção fracionada urinária de sódio, potássio e cloreto em cordeiros suplementados com cloreto de amônio para prevenção de urolitíase / Urinary fractional excretion of sodium, potassium and chloride in lambs supplemented with ammonium chloride to prevent urolithiasis

A urolitíase é uma doença importante de cordeiros confinados. A acidificação da urina, pela ingestão de cloreto de amônio, é o método preventivo mais frequentemente empregado. Devido à falta de informação específica em ovinos, este estudo foi realizado para avaliar as alterações que ocorrem nos eletrólitos urinários de cordeiros, que receberam cloreto de amônio na dieta. Foram utilizados 100 cordeiros, com 3 meses de idade, que foram mantidos em confinamento durante 56 dias, e distribuídos em 3 grupos: G1 (n=40) que receberam 400mg/kg de peso vivo (PV) de cloreto de amônio/dia, durante 21 dias; G2 (n=40) que receberam 400mg/kg de PV de cloreto de amônio/dia durante 42 dias; e G3 (n=20) que não receberam cloreto de amônio. Os cordeiros foram examinados e as amostras de sangue e urina foram colhidas a cada 7 dias: 0 (antes do início da ingestão de cloreto de amônio), 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, e 42 dias. As concentrações séricas e urinárias de sódio (Na+), potássio (K+), cloreto (Cl-), e de creatinina foram mensuradas em todos os momentos de colheita. A excreção fracionada urinária (EFu) de eletrólitos e a diferença de íons fortes (SID) na urina [(Na+ + K+) - Cl] foram calculadas. A EFu de Na+, K+ e Cl- não variou ao longo do tempo em G3, provando que a dieta de confinamento, por si só, não influenciou a excreção urinária destes eletrólitos. A ingestão de cloreto de amônio, pelo grupo G1 e G2, influenciou a EFu sobre o tempo de confinamento. A SID urinária foi mais precisa do que a EFu de Cl- para demonstrar que a concentração de Cl- aumentou na urina, o que destacou a relevância desta variável.(AU)

Urolithiasis is an important disease of lambs confined. The urine acidification, by ammonium chloride intake, is the preventive method most frequently employed. Due to the lack of specific information in sheep, this study was performed to evaluate the electrolyte changes that occur in the urine of lambs receiving ammonium chloride in the diet. One hundred male lambs, 3 months old, were kept in a feedlot during 56 days, and distributed in 3 groups: G1 (n=40) receiving 400mg/kg BW of ammonium chloride/day during 21 days; G2 (n=40) receiving 400mg/kg BW of ammonium chloride/day during 42 days; and G3 (n=20) that did not receive ammonium chloride. The lambs were examined and blood and urine samples were collected every 7 days: 0 (the beginning of ammonium chloride intake), 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 days. Serum and urine sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), and creatinine concentrations were measured. The urinary fractional excretion (FE) of electrolytes and the urine strong ion difference [(Na+ + K+) - Cl-] were calculated. FEs of Na+, K+, and Cl- did not vary over time in G3, proving that the feedlot diet, by itself, did not influence the urinary excretion of these electrolytes. The ingestion of ammonium chloride, instead, influenced FEs over the time of feedlot. The urinary SID was more accurate than the FE of Cl- to demonstrate that the concentration of Cl- increased in the urine. It highlights the relevance of this variable.(AU)

Sweat test and cystic fibrosis: overview of test performance at public and private centers in the state of São Paulo, Brazil / Teste do suor e fibrose cística: panorama da realização do teste em centros públicos e privados do estado de São Paulo

ABSTRACT Objective: The sweat test (ST) measures chloride levels in sweat and is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF). However, the reliability of a ST depends on their being performed by experienced technicians and in accordance with strict guidelines. Our aim was to evaluate how sweat stimulation, sweat collection, and chloride measurement are performed at 14 centers (9 public centers and 5 private centers) that routinely perform STs in the state of São Paulo, which has the highest frequency of CF in Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional cohort study, using a standardized questionnaire administered in loco to the staff responsible for conducting STs. Results: No uniformity regarding the procedures was found among the centers. Most centers were noncompliant with the international guidelines, especially regarding the collection of sweat (the samples were insufficient in 10-50% of the subjects tested); availability of stimulation equipment (which was limited at 2 centers); modernity and certification of stimulation equipment (most of the equipment having been used for 3-23 years); and written protocols (which were lacking at 12 centers). Knowledge of ST guidelines was evaluated at only 1 center. Conclusions: Our results show that STs largely deviate from internationally accepted guidelines at the participating centers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for standardization of STs, training of qualified personnel, and acquisition/certification of suitable equipment. These are essential conditions for a reliable diagnosis of CF, especially with the increasing demand due to newborn screening nationwide, and for the assessment of a possible clinical benefit from the use of modulator drugs.

RESUMO Objetivo: O teste do suor (TS) mede os níveis de cloro no suor e é considerado o padrão ouro para o diagnóstico da fibrose cística (FC). Contudo, a confiabilidade do TS depende de sua realização por técnicos experientes e segundo diretrizes rígidas. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar como são realizadas a estimulação e coleta do suor e a dosagem de cloro em 14 centros (9 públicos e 5 privados) que realizam TS rotineiramente no estado de São Paulo, que possui a maior frequência de FC do Brasil. Métodos: Estudo de coorte transversal utilizando um questionário padronizado aplicado in loco ao pessoal responsável pela realização dos TS. Resultados: Não houve uniformidade entre os centros quanto aos procedimentos. A maioria dos centros não era aderente às diretrizes internacionais, especialmente quanto à coleta do suor (amostras insuficientes em 10-50% dos indivíduos testados), disponibilidade de equipamentos de estimulação (limitada em 2 centros), modernidade e certificação dos mesmos (a maioria utilizada há 3-23 anos) e protocolos escritos (ausentes em 12 centros). Avaliou-se o conhecimento sobre diretrizes para TS em apenas 1 centro. Conclusões: Nossos resultados mostram que, nos centros participantes, os TS estão muito distantes das diretrizes internacionalmente aceitas. Portanto, há necessidade urgente de padronização dos TS, de treinamento de pessoal qualificado e de aquisição/certificação de equipamentos adequados. Essas são condições essenciais para um diagnóstico confiável de FC, especialmente com a crescente demanda resultante da triagem neonatal em todo o país, e para a avaliação do possível benefício clínico do uso de moduladores.

Condutividade e teste quantitativo coulométrico na triagem neonatal para fibrose cística / Sweat conductivity and coulometric quantitative test in neonatal cystic fibrosis screening

Resumo Objetivo Comparar os resultados obtidos no teste do suor pelo método da condutividade e a dosagem coulométrica de cloreto no suor em recém0nascidos (RN) suspeitos da triagem neonatal para fibrose cística (FC). Métodos O teste do suor foi feito simultaneamente pelos dois métodos em crianças com e sem FC. Os valores de corte para confirmar FC foram na condutividade > 50 mmol/L e no teste coulométrico > 60 mmol/L. Resultados Fizeram o teste do suor por condutividade e dosagem coulométrica simultaneamente 444 RN sem FC (185 do sexo masculino, 234 do feminino e 24 não informado) e obtiveram resultado mediano de 32 mmol/L e 12 mmol/L respectivamente. Para os noventa RN com FC os valores medianos de condutividade e dosagem coulométrica foram 108 mmol/L e 97 mmol/L respectivamente. O índice de falso positivo para condutividade foi de 16,7% e em todos os pacientes FC foi superior a 50 mmol/L, o que confere ao método 100% de sensibilidade (IC 95% = 93,8 a 97,8), especificidade de 96,2% (IC 95% = 93,8 a 97,8), valor preditivo positivo 83,3 (IC 95% = 74,4 a 91,1), valor preditivo negativo 100% (IC 95% = 90,5 a 109,4) e acurácia 9,8%. A correlação entre os métodos foi de r = 0,97 (p > 0,001).O melhor valor de corte sugerido foi de 69,0 mmol/L, coeficiente de kappa = 0,89. Conclusão O teste da condutividade apresentou excelente correlação com o quantitativo coulométrico, alta sensibilidade e especificidade e pode ser usado no diagnóstico da FC em crianças detectadas pela triagem neonatal.

Abstract Objective To compare the results obtained with the sweat test using the conductivity method and coulometric measurement of sweat chloride in newborns (NBs) with suspected cystic fibrosis (CF) in the neonatal screening program. Methods The sweat test was performed simultaneously by both methods in children with and without CF. The cutoff values to confirm CF were >50 mmol/L in the conductivity and >60 mmol/L in the coulometric test. Results There were 444 infants without CF (185 males, 234 females, and 24 unreported) submitted to the sweat test through conductivity and coulometric measurement simultaneously, obtaining median results of 32 mmol/L and 12 mmol/L, respectively. For 90 infants with CF, the median values of conductivity and coulometric measurement were 108 mmol/L and 97 mmol/L, respectively. The false positive rate for conductivity was 16.7%, and was higher than 50 mmol/L in all patients with CF, which gives this method a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 93.8-97.8), specificity of 96.2% (95% CI: 93.8-97.8), positive predictive value of 83.3% (95% CI: 74.4-91.1), negative predictive value of 100% (95% CI: 90.5-109.4), and 9.8% accuracy. The correlation between the methods was r = 0.97 (p > 0.001). The best suggested cutoff value was 69.0 mmol/L, with a kappa coefficient = 0.89. Conclusion The conductivity test showed excellent correlation with the quantitative coulometric test, high sensitivity and specificity, and can be used in the diagnosis of CF in children detected through newborn screening.

Teste do suor com dosagem de cloreto para diagnóstico da fibrose cística / Sweat test with chloride dosage to diagnose cystic fibrosis

A fibrose cística (FC), também chamada de mucoviscidose, é uma doença genética autossômica recessiva. Embora predomine na população caucasiana, com incidência de 1:3.000 nascidos vivos, pode estar presente em todos os grupos étnicos. No Brasil a incidência ainda é ignorada, contudo estudos regionais (PR, SC e MG) mostram dados estatísticos variáveis que sugerem uma incidência em torno de 1: 10.000. Considerando-se que, em 2010, nasceram 2.861.868 crianças no Brasil, é possível estimar que, por ano, haja aproximadamente 300 casos novos de fibrose cística no país. O prognóstico da doença é relacionado a vários fatores, como por exemplo, à presença ou não de suficiência pancreática, estado nutricional, colonização por Pseudomonas aeruginosa e idade ao diagnóstico. Trata-se de doença multissistêmica, sendo o acometimento pulmonar responsável pela maior morbimortalidade dos pacientes. As alterações pulmonares iniciam nas vias aéreas menores, são progressivas e evoluem para bronquiectasias, insuficiência respiratória crônica e cor pulmonale. O diagnóstico é realizado de acordo com os seguintes critérios: 1. Presença de sinais e sintomas sugestivos e/ou. 2. História familiar positiva e/ou; 3. Resultados alterados da tripsina imunorreativa (IRT) na Triagem Neonatal confirmados por: a) Teste do suor alterado ou; b) Presença de duas mutações conhecidas para fibrose cística ou; c) Diferença de potencial nasal alterado. A hipótese diagnóstica de fibrose cística é feita em bases clínicas ou triagem neonatal positiva e confirmada pela detecção de níveis elevados de cloretos no suor e/ou pelo estudo genético com a identificação de duas mutações para a fibrose cística. O teste mais fidedigno é a análise quantitativa do suor (titulação coulométrica) estimulado pela pilocarpina, que deve ser realizado por meio da iontoforese e a amostra de suor deve ser obtida pelo método Gibson e Cooke ou pelo sistema de microtubo capilar, também conhecido como serpentina. O teste é positivo se a concentração de cloretos no suor estiver acima de 60mmol/L em pelo menos duas dosagens. Para lactentes abaixo de seis meses,considera-se suspeito ou duvidoso valores entre 30mmol/L e 59 mmol/L. A realização do teste dosuor de forma adequada e correta tem as seguintes implicações para a prática clínica e os serviços de saúde: a) Padroniza a realização do exame e permite a acreditação dos laboratórios; b) Permite o diagnóstico correto da doença e o encaminhamento para serviços de referência; c) Evita diagnóstico errôneo e suas consequências e; d) Permite a realização de estudos multicêntricos. O método diagnóstico confirmatório para fibrose cística considerado padrão-ouro ­ teste do suor ­ não está disponível no SUS, apesar da triagem neonatal para essa enfermidade ter sido implementada no Programa Nacional de Triagem Neonatal desde 2001. Fora do contexto da triagem neonatal, este método é indispensável para o esclarecimento etiológico das pneumopatias crônicas que afetam crianças, adolescentes e adultos, situações nas quais a exclusão ou confirmação da fibrose cística está incorporada a inúmeros protocolos e diretrizes nacionais e internacionais. Considerando o exposto, os membros da CONITEC, presentes na 9ª reunião ordinária do dia 11/10/2012, por unanimidade, recomendaram a incorporação no SUS do teste do suor com dosagem de cloreto, mediante a garantia da qualificação técnica dos recursos humanos e porte tecnológico dos laboratórios executantes. Os membros da CONITEC presentes na 11ª reunião ordinária reunião do plenário do dia 07/12/2012 deliberaram, por unanimidade, por recomendar a incorporação do teste do suor com dosagem de cloreto para confirmação diagnóstica da fibrose cística, mediante normas técnicas a serem estabelecidas pelo Ministério da Saúde que incluam: garantia da qualificação técnica dos recursos humanos e porte tecnológico dos laboratórios executantes. A Portaria No-24, de 12 de junho de 2013 - Decide incorporar o teste do suor com dosagem de cloreto para confirmação diagnóstica da fibrose cística no Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS.

Nitrate and chloride concentrations in groundwater beneath a portion of the trinity group outcrop zone, Texas

Using a geographic information system and statistics, we evaluated spatial distributions of nitrate and chloride concentrations in groundwater in an area of north-central Texas with agricultural activity, in addition to oil and natural gas exploration and production. Data were compiled from 40 water wells sampled in 2007. Nitrate concentrations in three wells exceeded the maximum contaminant level [44 mg/L] for drinking water. The highest nitrate concentration was 149 mg/L, and concentrations were generally higher in shallower wells. Chloride concentrations exceeded the 250 mg/L secondary drinking water standard in two wells, with no significant association between chloride concentration and well depth. Results of this study suggest localized human impacts, especially for nitrate, and identify areas warranting future monitoring

Complicações diagnósticas na fibrose cística: métodos de rotina e novas alternativas / Complications in cystic fibrosis diagnostic: routine methods and new alternatives

A Fibrose Cística (FC) é uma doença grave presente em nosso meio. Apesar dos avanços nos métodos diagnósticos e no tratamento do paciente, existem inúmeros casos que ainda apresentam dificuldades para a definição desta doença. Os métodos mais comuns de diagnóstico são o teste de suor e análise de mutação para confirmação. Porém uma grande parcela dos pacientes com FC é portador de uma mutação não identificada e devem ser diagnosticados por várias outras medidas de disfunções orgânicas relatadas nesse artigo. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo descrever os principais meios de diagnosticar fibrose cística e a importância de uma definição precoce para que melhores resultados terapêuticos sejam atingidos.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a several disease present in our midst despite the advances in diagnostic methods and patient's treatment. Despite the improvement there are still many cases that have complicated and unclear diagnosis. There are several ways to diagnosis cystic fibrosis, being more common the sweat test and mutation analysis to confirm. However, a large proportion of CF patients has a mutation that cannot be identified. These patients should be investigated by several other measures of organ dysfunction that this article reports. This study aimed to describe the principal means of diagnosing cystic fibrosis and the importance of an appropriate definition as soon as possible for better therapeutic results.

Comparação entre o método clássico de Gibson e Cooke e o teste da condutividade no suor em pacientes com e sem fibrose cística / Comparison between classic Gibson and Cooke technique and sweat conductivity test in patients with and without cystic fibrosis

OBJETIVO: Comparar os valores de cloro no suor obtidos pelo teste quantitativo da iontoforese pela pilocarpina (teste clássico) com os valores de condutividade no suor obtidos pelo sistema de coleta por Macroduct® em pacientes com e sem fibrose cística (FC). O custo e tempo despendidos na execução de cada teste foram também analisados. MÉTODOS: O teste do suor pelas duas técnicas foi realizado simultaneamente, em pacientes com e sem FC. Os pontos de corte para a condutividade para excluir ou diagnosticar FC foram < 75 e > 90 mmol/L, respectivamente, e, para o teste clássico, cloro < 60 e > 60 mmol/L. RESULTADOS: Cinquenta e dois pacientes com FC (29 do sexo masculino e 23 do sexo feminino; de 1,5 a 18,2 anos) realizaram o teste do suor pelas duas técnicas, apresentando valores medianos de cloro e condutividade no suor de 114 e 122 mmol/L, respectivamente. Em todos eles, a condutividade foi > 95 mmol/L, o que conferiu ao teste 100 por cento de sensibilidade (IC95 por cento 93,1-100). Cinquenta pacientes sem FC (24 do sexo masculino e 26 do sexo feminino; de 0,5 a 12,5 anos) apresentaram valores medianos de cloro e condutividade no suor de 15,5 e 30 mmol/L, respectivamente. Em todos os casos, a condutividade foi < 70 mmol/L, o que conferiu ao teste 100 por cento de especificidade (IC95 por cento 92,9-100). O tempo despendido na execução dos testes foi significativamente menor com o teste da condutividade, e o seu custo também foi inferior. CONCLUSÕES: O teste da condutividade apresentou alta sensibilidade e especificidade, e houve boa correspondência entre os testes. O tempo de execução foi mais rápido e o custo inferior na aplicação do teste da condutividade em relação ao teste clássico.

OBJECTIVE: To compare sweat chloride values obtained by quantitative pilocarpine iontophoresis (classic test) with the sweat conductivity values obtained using Macroduct® collection system in patients with and without cystic fibrosis (CF). The cost and time spent to carry out each test were also analyzed. METHODS: The sweat test using both techniques was performed at the same time in patients with and without CF. Conductivity cutoff values to rule out or diagnose CF were < 75 and > 90 mmol/L, respectively, and for the classic test the chloride values were < 60 and > 60 mmol/L. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients with CF (29 males and 23 females; aged from 1.5 to 18.2 years) underwent the sweat test using both techniques, showing median sweat chloride and conductivity values of 114 and 122 mmol/L, respectively. In all of them, conductivity was > 95 mmol/L, which provided the test with 100 percent sensitivity (95 percentCI 93.1-100). Fifty patients without CF (24 males and 26 females; aged from 0.5 to 12.5 years) had median sweat chloride and conductivity values of 15.5 and 30 mmol/L, respectively. In all cases, conductivity was < 70 mmol/L, which provided the test with 100 percent specificity (95 percentCI 92.9-100). Time spent to perform the tests was significantly shorter for the conductivity test, and its cost was also lower. CONCLUSIONS: The conductivity test showed high sensitivity and specificity, and there was good correspondence between the tests. The time spent to carry out the conductivity test was shorter and the cost was lower in comparison with the classic test.

Caracterización de queso chanco enriquecido con suero lácteo en polvo / Characterization of chanco cheese enriched with powder milkwhey

The influence by the addition of whey proteins on the biochemical changes in Chanco cheese ripening was evaluated. 4 treatments were set up: TC (control), and TI, T2 and T3 adding milk whey powder at 2, 4, 6 percent (m/m) respectively using a factorial design 3 x4 (4 treatments by 3 repetitions). In pH control, humidity, fat, total solids, proteins, ashes and salt at 0, 14, 28 and 42 days, standardized methods were used: IDF-FIL, AOAC and Chilean guidelines. Color by colorimeter Color test LFM1, water activity by the LUF analyzer and by the formula. In the sensorial evaluation the test of Multiple Comparison (4 attributes) was used. The results showed that glycolysis increased during ripening in treatments with whey. Moisture, fat and ashes increased at T2 & T3, and water activity decreased slowly in cheeses. Control and TI in texture profile were statistically equal. It is concluded that whey addition to Chanco cheese it is feasible but limited.

Se evaluó la influencia ejercida por el agregado de proteínas séricas, sobre los cambios bioquímicos ocurridos en la maduración del Chanco. Se plantearon cuatro tratamientos: TC (control), y TI, T2 y T3 con agregado de 2,4, 6 por ciento (m/m) de suero en polvo, respectivamente, usando un diseño factorial de 3 x 4 (4 tratamientos y 3 repeticiones). En el control de pH, humedad, materia grasa, sólidos totales, proteína, cenizas y sal, a los 0, 14, 28 y 42 días, se usaron métodos estandarizados, IDF-FIL, AOAC y Normas Chilenas. Color instrumental por el colorímetro Color Tester LFM 1, aw por el analizador LUF y por fórmula. En la evaluación sensorial se usó el test de Comparación Múltiple (4 atributos). Los resultados indican que en los tratamientos con suero la glicólisis se prolonga durante la maduración. Humedad, grasas y cenizas se incrementan en T3 y T4 y la actividad de agua (aw) desciende más lentamente en esos quesos. En el perfil textural resultan estadísticamente iguales el Control y TI. Se concluye que la adición de suero al proceso de Queso Chanco es factible pero en niveles limitados.

use of sweat chloride test for screening cystic fibrosis among malnourished children suffering from frequent respiratory infections

To establish a reliable cost-effective screening criterion for cystic fibrosis [CF] among underweight children suffering from frequent chest infections using the sweat chloride test [SCT]. In a cross-sectional study, 145 children with frequent chest infections were seen in the Pediatric Department at Prince Rashed Bin Al-Hassan Hospital, Irbid, Jordan, between January and December 2008. Their age ranged from 2-12 years [87 males and 58 females]. We obtained 11 children with positive polymerase chain reaction [PCR] for CF from hospital laboratory records, and 134 had no confirmed CF. Nutritional anthropometric assessment of weight-for-age and height-for-age based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/World Health Organization 2000 was performed only on the confirmed 11 cases of CF. We used receiver operating curve statistical analysis to find the best SCT cut-off value for screening CF. The identification of CF is highly sensitive and specific when using the SCT >57 mmol/L. The sensitivity was 100% [95% confidence interval; 71.3-100%], specificity was 90.3% [95% confidence interval; 84-94.7%], and the good reliability Kappa statistical agreement beyond chance was 58.5%. A sweat chloride result of >57 mmol/L seems to strongly suggest the likelihood of CF, and should trigger further investigation in patients who have frequent respiratory symptoms and have failed to thrive

Changes in chloride cell abundance, NA[+], K[+]-atpase immunolocalization and activity in the gills of golden grey mullet, liza aurata, fry during adaptation to differend salinities

Changes in chloride cell abundance, Na+, K+-ATPase immunolocalization and activity were investigated in the gills of the golden grey mullet, Liza aurata, fry acclimated to freshwater [FW] and different salinities [12', 36' and 46%]. Na+, K+-ATPase localization was performed through immunofluorescence light microscopy using a mouse monoclonal antibody IgG alpha 5. Quantitive analysis of Na+, K+-ATPase intensity was analyzed using Optima's version 6.51 image analysis software [Media Cybernetics, Silver Spring, MD, USA]. In FW, the fluorescent cells [chloride cells] were observed on the epithelia of filaments [mainly in inter-lamellar regions] and on the lamellae. Following transfer to 12%. salinity, the abundance of Na+, K+-ATPase immunofluorescence cells on the filaments decreased 1.7-fold, and no immunofluorescence cells were detected on the lamellae. Samples from 36% and 46%. salinity showed a high density of chloride cells on the epithelia of filaments, and a few cells on the lamellae. Na+, K+-ATPase intensity did not change significantly with an increase in salinity from 36% to 46% but it was significantly higher [p > 0.05] in the FW compared to 12% salinity. There was no significant difference between gill Na+, K+-ATPase activity in FW and 12% salinity, but it was significantly higher [p > 0.05] in the fish acclimated to 36' and 46% salinity [3.3- and 5.1-fold] compared to 12%. The capability of L. aurata fry to change the number and size of gill chloride cells, as well as their activities indicate the high degree of adaptability of this fish to a wide range of salinity

Phytoplankton as index of water quality with reference to industrial pollution.

In this paper Shannon-Weaver (SI-3.58-4.07, SII-3.1-3.72, SIII-1.64-2.25, SIV-2.54-2.95 and SV-3.09-3.23) diversity index was applied to surface phytoplankton to study the water quality status of river Bhadra receiving Mysore paper mill and Iron and steel mill effluent. A total of 45 species of phytoplankton belonging to 5 classes were recorded and study indicated that the phytoplankton diversity (Chlorophyceae-19 species, Bacillanophyceae-16 species, Cyanophyceae-07 species, Euglenophyceae-2 species and Chrysophyceae-1 species) did not reveal the same type of water quality (water temperature 24.62-27.32 degrees C, pH-7.08-7.25, electrical conductivity-67.49-201.94 micromhos/cm, dissolved oxygen-4.13-5.98 mgl(-1), chloride-12.30-40.85 mgl(-1), calcium-6.49-23.74 mgl(-1), total hardness 28.98-76.65 mgl(1), magnesium-4.69-15.92 mgl(-1), total alkalinity-77.26-86.53 mgl(-1), BOD-1.88-4.01 mgl(-1), COD - 16.53-45 mgl(-1), phosphate-0.001-0.53 mgl(-1), sodium-2.70-7.46 mgl(-1) and potassium-2.37-7.88 mgl(-1)). The investigation emphasized the need of phytoplankton community as index of water quality polluted by industrial effluents at the downstream stretch of the Bhadra river.

Evaluation of physical, chemical and microbiological properties of lake Uluabat, Turkey.

Lake Uluabat, known for its scenic beauty and richness of aquatic life, is situated in Marmara Region, Bursa (Turkey). On account of its importance, lake Uluabat was designated by the Ministry of Environment as a Ramsar site in 1998. Physical, chemical and microbiological parameters of the aquatic ecosystem in lake Uluabat were measured monthly at five stations from February 2003 to January 2004. The results showed that lake Uluabat can be classified as Class I with respect to temperature (16.36 +/- 7.47 degrees C), nitrate nitrogen (0.63 +/- 0.50 mgl(-1)), sodium (9.64 +/- 2.78 mgl(-1)), chloride (20.45 +/- 4.59 mgl(-1)), sulphate (54.80 +/- 29.97 mgl(-1)); as Class II with respect to dissolved oxygen (7.62 +/- 1.99 mgl(-1)), ammonium nitrogen (0.52 +/- 0.49 mgl(-1)), chemical oxygen demand (35.74 +/- 10.66 mgl(-1)), total coliform (2027 MPN100 ml(-1) (average value)); as Class III with respect to pH (8.69 +/- 0.16) and as Class IV with respect to total nitrogen (84.94 +/- 66.13 mgl(-1)), total phosphorus (1.11 +/- 3.01 mgl(-1)), biochemical oxygen demand (21.21 +/- 6.60 mgl(-1)) according to TWPCR (Turkey Water Pollution Control Regulation). The nutrient content of lake waterapparently indicated that lake had an eutrophic characteristic. Phosphorus was determined as a limiting factor in lake. The measured hardness values (140.94 +/- 14.61 CaCO3 mgl(-1)) indicated that lake water was classified as soft/hard during the study period. Eutrophic characteristic of the lake and contaminant accumulation in water will probably affect the future use of the lake. Therefore, pollution parameters must be regularly monitored and evaluated according to aquatic living and local regulations.

Standardized Sweat Chloride Analysis for the Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis in Korea / 대한진단검사의학회지

BACKGROUND: Cystic fibrosis is a chronic progressive autosomal recessive disorder caused by the CFTR gene mutations. It is quite common in Caucasians, but very rare in Asians. Sweat chloride test is known to be a screening test for the cystic fibrosis due to the fact that electrolyte levels in sweat are elevated in patients. In this study, sweat chloride levels in Korean population were measured and analyzed by using standardized pilocarpine iontophoresis sweat chloride test. METHODS: The sweat chloride test was performed in 47 patients referred to Yondong Severance Hospital from August, 2001 to April, 2007 and 41 healthy volunteers. The sweat chloride tests were conducted according to the CLSI C34-A2 guideline using pilocarpine iontophoresis method, and the chloride concentrations in sweat were measured by mercurimetric titration. RESULTS: Four patients showed sweat chloride concentrations higher than 60 mmol/L. Reference interval was calculated as 1.4-44.5 mmol/L by analysis of the results of healthy volunteers (n=41). Four patients who exhibited high sweat chloride levels, had characteristic clinical features of cystic fibrosis and their diagnoses were confirmed either by repeated sweat chloride test or genetic analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Standardized sweat chloride test can be utilized as a useful diagnostic tool for cystic fibrosis in Koreans. In cases of sweat chloride levels higher than 40 mmol/L, the test should be repeated for the possible diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. All the confirmed Korean cases of cystic fibrosis showed sweat chloride level above 60 mmol/L.

Physico-chemical characteristics of water samples of Bantwal Taluk, south-western Karnataka, India.

Quality of water is an important criterion for evaluating the suitability of water for irrigation and drinking. In the present study the analysis of water samples from different sources like open wells, bore wells, farm ponds and streams/rivers of twenty villages of Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, South-western Kamataka has been carried out. The physico-chemical characteristics of this water showed that it is suitable for irrigation and agricultural purposes.

Physico-chemical characteristics of groundwater at Churu tehsil, Rajasthan, India.

Groundwater samples were collected from different locations in Churu tehsil, Rajasthan (India) for their physico-chemical studies. Laboratory tests were performed for analysis of samples for total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity and major ions, e.g. calcium, magnesium, nitrate, fluoride, sodium and potassium. This paper highlights the analytical results for main ions contributing towards total dissolved solids. On comparing the results against drinking water quality standards laid by Indian Council of Medical Research (I.C.M.R.), it is found that most of the water samples are non potable for human beings due to high concentration of one parameter or the other. Most of the samples have total dissolved solids values much higher than the maximum permissible level stipulated by I.C.M.R., which is 1500 ppm. The high values of these parameters may have health implications and therefore these need attention.

Pollution status and conservation strategies of Moirang River, Manipur with a note on its aquatic bio-resources.

An attempt has been made to evaluate pollution status and aquatic bio-resources of the Moirang river near its mouth in the Loktak Lake. The river water is considered polluted as it has high concentration of free CO2 (14.8 mg/l), nitrite-nitrogen (0.040 mg/l), inorganic phosphorus (0.107 mg/l and faecal coliform bacteria (162/100 ml). Aquatic bio-resources of the river include 24 species of fishes representing 20 genera of 13 families and 16 species of macrophytes representing 14 genera of 9 families. The floral and faunal compositions of the river were mostly widely distributed forms that can survive in polluted environments. Fishery potential and conservation strategies of the river are discussed.

A study on major inorganic ion composition of atmospheric aerosols.

Atmospheric aerosol samples were collected from Akola and Buldana region covering around 40 sqkm area during October-November 2002 and were analyzed for ten major inorganic ions namely F-, Cl-, NO3-, SO4(2-), PO4(2-), Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and NH4+ using ion chromatographic technique. The average mass of aerosols was found to be 225.81 microg/m3 with standard deviation of 31.29 and average total water soluble load of total cations and anions was found to be 4.32 microg/m3. The concentration of ions in samples showed a general pattern as SO4(2-) > NO3- > Cl- > PO4(2-) > F- for anions and Na+ > Ca2+ > NH4+ > Mg2+ > K+ for cations. The overall composition of the aerosols was taken into account to identify the sources. The trend showed higher concentration of sodium followed by calcium, sulfate, nitrate, phosphate and ammoinum and found to be influenced by terrestrial sources. The presence of SO4(2-) and NO3- in aerosols may be due to re-suspension of soil particles. Ca2+, Mg2+ and Cl- are to be derived from soil materials. The presence of NH4+ may be attributed to the reaction of NH3 vapors with acidic gases may react or condense on an acidic particle surface of anthropogenic origin. The atmospheric aerosol is slightly acidic due to neutralization of basicity by SO2 and NO(x).