Autophagy-Associated IL-15 Production Is Involved in the Pathogenesis of Leprosy Type 1 Reaction.

Leprosy reactional episodes are acute inflammatory events that may occur during the clinical course of the disease. Type 1 reaction (T1R) is associated with an increase in neural damage, and the understanding of the molecular pathways related to T1R onset is pivotal for the development of strategies that may effectively control the reaction. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is a key cytokine associated with T1R onset and is also associated with autophagy induction. Here, we evaluated the modulation of the autophagy pathway in Mycobacterium leprae-stimulated cells in the presence or absence of IFN-γ. We observed that IFN-γ treatment promoted autophagy activation and increased the expression of genes related to the formation of phagosomes, autophagy regulation and function, or lysosomal pathways in M. leprae-stimulated cells. IFN-γ increased interleukin (IL)-15 secretion in M. leprae-stimulated THP-1 cells in a process associated with autophagy activation. We also observed higher IL15 gene expression in multibacillary (MB) patients who later developed T1R during clinical follow-up when compared to MB patients who did not develop the episode. By overlapping gene expression patterns, we observed 13 common elements shared between T1R skin lesion cells and THP-1 cells stimulated with both M. leprae and IFN-γ. Among these genes, the autophagy regulator Translocated Promoter Region, Nuclear Basket Protein (TPR) was significantly increased in T1R cells when compared with non-reactional MB cells. Overall, our results indicate that IFN-γ may induce a TPR-mediated autophagy transcriptional program in M. leprae-stimulated cells similar to that observed in skin cells during T1R by a pathway that involves IL-15 production, suggesting the involvement of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of T1R.

Macrophage Polarization in Leprosy-HIV Co-infected Patients.

In HIV-infected individuals, a paradoxical clinical deterioration may occur in preexisting leprosy when highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-associated reversal reaction (RR) develops. Leprosy-HIV co-infected patients during HAART may present a more severe form of the disease (RR/HIV), but the immune mechanisms related to the pathogenesis of leprosy-HIV co-infection remain unknown. Although the adaptive immune responses have been extensively studied in leprosy-HIV co-infected individuals, recent studies have described that innate immune cells may drive the overall immune responses to mycobacterial antigens. Monocytes are critical to the innate immune system and play an important role in several inflammatory conditions associated with chronic infections. In leprosy, different tissue macrophage phenotypes have been associated with the different clinical forms of the disease, but it is not clear how HIV infection modulates the phenotype of innate immune cells (monocytes or macrophages) during leprosy. In the present study, we investigated the phenotype of monocytes and macrophages in leprosy-HIV co-infected individuals, with or without RR. We did not observe differences between the monocyte profiles in the studied groups; however, analysis of gene expression within the skin lesion cells revealed that the RR/HIV group presents a higher expression of macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MRS1), CD209 molecule (CD209), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), arginase 2 (ARG2), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) when compared with the RR group. Our data suggest that different phenotypes of tissue macrophages found in the skin from RR and RR/HIV patients could differentially contribute to the progression of leprosy.

Erythema Nodosum Leprosum Neutrophil Subset Expressing IL-10R1 Transmigrates into Skin Lesions and Responds to IL-10.

Erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) is an inflammatory complication in leprosy. Yet, the involvement of ENL neutrophils in the inflammatory response against Mycobacterium leprae remains poorly explored. Our primary aim was to investigate the utility of the surface expression of neutrophil IL-10R1 as an ENL biomarker and, secondarily, to evaluate whether leprosy or healthy M. leprae-stimulated neutrophils produce cytokines and are able to respond to IL-10. We, in this study, describe a subpopulation of circulating neutrophils of ENL patients that exclusively expressed IL-10R1, providing evidence that IL-10R1+ neutrophils are present in ENL lesions. It was also found that ENL neutrophils, but not those of nonreactional leprosy controls, were able to secret detectable levels of TNF ex vivo and the addition of IL-10 blocked TNF release. It was likewise observed that M. leprae-stimulated, healthy neutrophils expressed IL-10R1 in vitro, and ENL-linked cytokines were released by M. leprae-cultured neutrophils in vitro. Moreover, consistent with the presence of a fully functional IL-10R, the addition of IL-10 prevented the release of M. leprae-induced cytokines. Most importantly, dead M. leprae revealed its superior capacity to induce CCL4 and IL-8 in primary neutrophils over live Mycobacterium, suggesting that M. leprae may hamper the inflammatory machinery as an immune escape mechanism.

Estresse e Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde: Compreendendo Significados no Processo de Formação / Stress and Multiprofessional Residence in Health: Understanding Meanings in the Training Process

RESUMO Durante o processo de formação, os residentes multiprofissionais em saúde estão expostos a eventos estressores que podem comprometer sua trajetória profissional. Este estudo avaliou o estresse de pós-graduandos do Programa de Residência Integrada Multiprofissional em Saúde (RIMS) em uma maternidade-escola, como também buscou compreender os significados atribuídos pelos residentes diante desse processo. A pesquisa compreendeu duas abordagens metodológicas, quantitativa e qualitativa, de forma complementar. Assim, participaram deste estudo 26 sujeitos, distribuídos de forma equivalente entre o primeiro e o segundo ano do Programa de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal. Para coleta de dados, foram aplicados os seguintes instrumentos: ficha de identificação, que abordou questões socioculturais, Inventário de Sintomas de Estresse para Adultos de Lipp (ISSL), além de um questionário com questões abertas. Para análise dos resultados, foram realizadas a tabulação e a análise das frequências, utilizando-se o programa PSPP, versão 1.0.1. Na abordagem qualitativa, foi utilizada a técnica de análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Verificou-se que 96,2% dos pesquisados apresentaram estresse. Destes, 72% estavam na fase de resistência e 28% na quase exaustão, predominando os sintomas psicológicos (68%). A análise qualitativa permitiu identificar que a sobrecarga de atividades e a escassez de articulação entre teoria e prática foram fatores desafiadores no cotidiano da formação. Além disso, em relação aos fatores gratificantes vivenciados durante a residência, o trabalho interdisciplinar e o reconhecimento do trabalho por parte do usuário foram considerados, pelos residentes, vivências gratificantes. Já a dificuldade de reconhecimento do trabalho por parte da equipe, a preceptoria e a mão de obra barata foram vistas como fatores relacionados a sentimentos de frustração. É indispensável elaborar políticas públicas a fim de aprimorar os projetos pedagógicos dos Programas de Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde (PRMS), contribuindo para a saúde física e mental dos residentes.

ABSTRACT During the training process, multiprofessional health residents are exposed to stressful events that may compromise their professional trajectory. This study aimed to assess the stress suffered by graduate students of the Multiprofessional Integrated Health Residency Program (RIMS) at a maternity school, as well understand the meanings attributed by the residents of this process. The research comprised two complementary methodological approaches: quantitative and qualitative. Thus, 26 subjects participated in the study, distributed equally between the first and second years of the Neonatal Intensive Care Program. The following data collection instruments were applied: identification form, which addressed socio-cultural issues, the Lipp Adult Stress Symptom Inventory (ISSL), and a questionnaire with open-ended questions. For analysis of the results, tabulation and frequency analysis were carried out using the program PSPP, version 1.0.1. Bardin content analysis was was the qualitative method adopted. It was verified that 96.2% of the respondents presented stress, of whom 72% were in the resistance phase and 28% at near-exhaustion, with a prevalence of psychological symptoms (68%). The qualitative analysis allowed us to identify that overload of activities and lack of articulation between theory and practice were challenging factors in the daily life of the trainees. Furthermore, in relation to gratifying factors experienced during the residence, interdisciplinary work and recognition of one's work by the user were considered by the residents to be rewarding experiences. Difficulty in achieving recognition of the work by the team, the preceptors and the cheap labor, meanwhile, were seen as factors related to feelings of frustration. It is essential that public policies be developed in order to improve the pedagogical projects of the Multiprofessional Health Residency Programs (PRMS), contributing to the physical and mental health of the residents.

Low-cost approach to increase the analysis throughput of bar adsorptive microextraction (BAµE) combined with environmentally-friendly renewable sorbent phase of recycled diatomaceous earth.

In this study, a novel apparatus for bar adsorptive microextraction (BAµE) using a voltage regulator was proposed as an alternative tool to improve the analysis throughput. In addition, recycled diatomaceous earth obtained as a brewery residue was employed as a biosorbent coating for the determination of methyl paraben, ethyl paraben, benzophenone and triclocarban in water samples by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The use of the extraction devices, comprised of floating adsorptive bars of 7.5mm length, in the extractions with magnetic stirrers linked to a voltage regulator enabled the analysis of multiple samples, simultaneously. The method optimization was carried out by univariate and multivariate analyses. The optimal conditions for the method were sample solution at pH 5, extraction time of 90min and liquid desorption in 100µL of acetonitrile:methanol (50:50, v/v) for 15min. The total sample preparation time was 17.5min per sample for a simultaneous batch of six extractions. The R2 values for the calibration curves obtained were higher than 0.9985. The limits of detection (LODs) varied from 0.19 to 2µgL-1 and the limits of quantification (LOQs) ranged from 0.63 to 6.9µgL-1. The method was applied to freshwater samples collected from Peri Lagoon (Florianópolis, SC, Brazil) and the relative recoveries ranged from 63% to 124% with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of < 20% (n = 2). The RSD values for the reproducibility of the performance of the magnetic stirrers and inter-device extraction efficiency were lower than 14% (n = 3) and 11% (n = 3), respectively.

Elevated Pentraxin-3 Concentrations in Patients With Leprosy: Potential Biomarker of Erythema Nodosum Leprosum.

Background: Leprosy, the leading infectious cause of disability worldwide, remains a major public health challenge in the most severely affected countries despite the sharp decline in new cases in recent years. The search for biomarkers is essential to achieve a better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the disease. Methods: Pentraxin-3 (PTX3) analyses of sera from 87 leprosy patients with or without reactions were conducted via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In situ identification of PTX3 in skin lesion was confirmed by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence assays. Results: We found that PTX3 serum levels were higher in multibacillary patients when evaluated before the onset of acute erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) and persistently elevated during reaction. Thalidomide treatment reduced PTX3 in the serum 7 days after starting treatment. In situ analyses have also demonstrated enhancement of PTX3 in ENL lesions and showed that treatment with thalidomide reduced its expression and the prominent neutrophilic infiltrate, a hallmark of the disease. Conclusions: In summary, our study provides in vivo evidence that PTX3 is enhanced during ENL but not in reversal reaction and provides a new molecular target in ENL pathogenesis.

Indoleamine 2. 3-dioxygenase and iron are required for Mycobacterium leprae survival

Our previous study has demonstrated that IL-10 may modulate both indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and CD163 expression in lepromatous leprosy (LL) cells, favoring Mycobacterium leprae persistence through induction of regulatory pathways and iron storage. Here, we observed that in LL lesion cells there is an increase in the expression of proteins involved in iron metabolism such as hemoglobin (Hb), haptoglobin, heme oxygenase 1 and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) when compared to tuberculoid leprosy (BT) cells. We also found increased iron deposits and diminished expression of the iron exporter ferroportin 1 in LL lesion cells. Hemin, but not FeSO stimulation, was able to enhance M. leprae viability by a mechanism that involves IDO. Analysis of cell phenotype in lesions demonstrated a predominance of M2 markers in LL when compared with BT lesion cells. A positive correlation between CD163 and PPARG with the bacillary index (BI) was observed. In contrast, TNF, STAT1 and CSF2 presented a negative correlation with the BI. In summary, this study demonstrates that iron may regulate IDO expression by a mechanism that involves IL-10, which may contribute for the predominance of M2-like phenotype in LL lesions that favors the phagocytosis and maintenance of M. leprae in host cells.

Expression of CD64 on Circulating Neutrophils Favoring Systemic Inflammatory Status in Erythema Nodosum Leprosum.

Erythema Nodosum Leprosum (ENL) is an immune reaction in leprosy that aggravates the patient´s clinical condition. ENL presents systemic symptoms of an acute infectious syndrome with high leukocytosis and intense malaise clinically similar to sepsis. The treatment of ENL patients requires immunosuppression and thus needs to be early and efficient to prevent both disabilities and permanent nerve damage. Some patients experience multiple episodes of ENL and prolonged use of immunosuppressive drugs may lead to serious adverse effects. Thalidomide treatment is extremely effective at ameliorating ENL symptoms. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the efficacy of thalidomide in ENL, including the inhibition of TNF production. Given its teratogenicity, thalidomide is prohibitive for women of childbearing age. A rational search for molecular targets during ENL episodes is essential to better understand the disease mechanisms involved, which may also lead to the discovery of new drugs and diagnostic tests. Previous studies have demonstrated that IFN-γ and GM-CSF, involved in the induction of CD64 expression, increase during ENL. The aim of the present study was to investigate CD64 expression during ENL and whether thalidomide treatment modulated its expression. Leprosy patients were allocated to one of five groups: (1) Lepromatous leprosy, (2) Borderline leprosy, (3) Reversal reaction, (4) ENL, and (5) ENL 7 days after thalidomide treatment. The present study demonstrated that CD64 mRNA and protein were expressed in ENL lesions and that thalidomide treatment reduced CD64 expression and neutrophil infiltrates-a hallmark of ENL. We also showed that ENL blood neutrophils exclusively expressed CD64 on the cell surface and that thalidomide diminished overall expression. Patient classification based on clinical symptoms found that severe ENL presented high levels of neutrophil CD64. Collectively, these data revealed that ENL neutrophils express CD64, presumably contributing to the immunopathogenesis of the disease.

Adsorption of copper in oxisol and alfisol / Adsorção de cobre em Latossolo Bruno e Nitossolo Vermelho

The accumulation of copper (Cu) in soil can provide input in excess of these elements in the food chain through the contamination of soil and water. The study of the chemical behavior of Cu is needed for the knowledge of mobility of these elements in the soil profile. The aim of this study was to know the background Cu concentration, to evaluate the effect of pH, ionic strength (FI) and to quantify the maximum adsorption capacity (CMA) of Cu in Oxisol and Alfisol. The adsorption rate was evaluated at pH 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5 and the FI 15 and 150 mmol L-1 of Ca(NO3)2. To quantify the CMA were used rates of Cu concentrations of 0, 0.075, 0.15, 0.30, 0.60, 1.5 mmol L-1, final soil: solution l: 100. Raising the pH value increased the adsorption of Cu and increasing the ionic strength of the solution didnt reduce the adsorption of Cu. The CMA calculated for Cu in Alfisol was 3354 mg kg-1. It was not possible to calculate the CMA in Oxisol.(AU)

O acúmulo de cobre (Cu) no solo pode proporcionar a entrada em excesso desse elemento na cadeia alimentar através da contaminação do solo e água. O estudo do comportamento químico do Cu torna-se necessário para o conhecimento da mobilidade desse elemento no perfil do solo. O objetivo desse trabalho foi conhecer os teores nativos de Cu, avaliar o efeito de pH, força iônica (FI) e quantificar a capacidade máxima de adsorção (CMA) de Cu em Latossolo Bruno (LB) e Nitossolo Vermelho (NV). A adsorção foi avaliada em pH 4,5; 5,5 e 6,5 e na FI de 15 e 150 mmol L-1 de Ca(NO3)2. Para quantificar a CMA foram utilizadas doses de Cu nas concentrações de: 0, 0,075, 0,15, 0,30, 0,60, 1,50 mmol L-1, relação solo:solução final de 1:100. A elevação do valor de pH aumentou a adsorção de Cu e o aumento da força iônica da solução não diminuiu a adsorção de Cu. A CMA calculada para Cu no NV foi de 3354 mg kg-1. Não foi possível calcular a CMA para Cu no LB.(AU)

Adsorption of copper in oxisol and alfisol / Adsorção de cobre em Latossolo Bruno e Nitossolo Vermelho

The accumulation of copper (Cu) in soil can provide input in excess of these elements in the food chain through the contamination of soil and water. The study of the chemical behavior of Cu is needed for the knowledge of mobility of these elements in the soil profile. The aim of this study was to know the background Cu concentration, to evaluate the effect of pH, ionic strength (FI) and to quantify the maximum adsorption capacity (CMA) of Cu in Oxisol and Alfisol. The adsorption rate was evaluated at pH 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5 and the FI 15 and 150 mmol L-1 of Ca(NO3)2. To quantify the CMA were used rates of Cu concentrations of 0, 0.075, 0.15, 0.30, 0.60, 1.5 mmol L-1, final soil: solution l: 100. Raising the pH value increased the adsorption of Cu and increasing the ionic strength of the solution didnt reduce the adsorption of Cu. The CMA calculated for Cu in Alfisol was 3354 mg kg-1. It was not possible to calculate the CMA in Oxisol.

O acúmulo de cobre (Cu) no solo pode proporcionar a entrada em excesso desse elemento na cadeia alimentar através da contaminação do solo e água. O estudo do comportamento químico do Cu torna-se necessário para o conhecimento da mobilidade desse elemento no perfil do solo. O objetivo desse trabalho foi conhecer os teores nativos de Cu, avaliar o efeito de pH, força iônica (FI) e quantificar a capacidade máxima de adsorção (CMA) de Cu em Latossolo Bruno (LB) e Nitossolo Vermelho (NV). A adsorção foi avaliada em pH 4,5; 5,5 e 6,5 e na FI de 15 e 150 mmol L-1 de Ca(NO3)2. Para quantificar a CMA foram utilizadas doses de Cu nas concentrações de: 0, 0,075, 0,15, 0,30, 0,60, 1,50 mmol L-1, relação solo:solução final de 1:100. A elevação do valor de pH aumentou a adsorção de Cu e o aumento da força iônica da solução não diminuiu a adsorção de Cu. A CMA calculada para Cu no NV foi de 3354 mg kg-1. Não foi possível calcular a CMA para Cu no LB.

Effects of dietary clinoptilolite and calcium levels on uric acid and calcium blood concentrations and bone quality of commercial layers

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of clinoptilolite and calcium levels on uric acid and calcium blood profile and bone quality of commercial layers. A total of 576 birds were distributed according to a completely randomized experimental design in a 3x4 factorial arrangement (calcium levels of 2.5, 3.1, or 3.7% and clinoptilolite levels of 0.0, 0.15, 0.25, or 0.50%), into 12 treatments with six replicates of eight birds per cage (experimental unit). The experimental period was 112 days. The experimental diets were based on corn and soybean meal. Results were submitted to analysis of variance and means were compared by the test of Tukey at 5% significance level using SISVAR statistical package. Blood uric acid was significantly influenced by the interaction of the evaluated factors. Clinoptilolite levels significantly increased blood calcium levels. There was no effect of dietary calcium levels on any of the evaluated characteristics. It was concluded that feeding layers with up to 0.50% clinoptilolite does not benefit blood uric acid and calcium concentrations and does not affect their bone quality. When layers at the end of the first laying cycle are fed ad libitum and present 119.50g/hen/day average feed intake, 3.1% dietary calcium promotes 3.7g/hen/day calcium intake, which is sufficient to maintain adequate calcium blood levels and bone quality.

Effects of dietary clinoptilolite and calcium levels on the performance and egg quality of commercial layers

Among the different feed additives studied in poultry production, clinoptilolite, an aluminosilicate capable of adsorbing harmful substances and of improving live performance and egg and meat quality, was evaluated. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of dietary clinoptilolite and calcium levels on the performance and egg quality of layers. In total, 576 layers were distributed according to a completely randomized experimental design in a 3 x 4 factorial arrangement (three calcium levels - 2.5, 3.1, or 3.7% and four clinoptilolite levels - 0.0, 0.15, 0.25, or 0.50%), with 12 treatments of six replicates of eight birds each. The experiment included four 28-d cycles. The experimental diets were based on corn and soybean meal. Results were submitted to analysis of variance and means were compared by the test of Tukey at 5% significance level using SISVAR statistical package. There was a significant interaction between the evaluated factors for egg production and feed conversion ratio per dozen eggs and egg mass. The lowest calcium level resulted in worse performance and eggshell quality. Clinoptilolite levels affected albumen and yolk content. It was concluded that up to 0.50% inclusion of clinoptilolite in layer diets does not benefit layer performance or eggshell quality. Although the inclusion of only 2.5% calcium in layer diets is not recommended, it is possible to add 3.1% because it promoted similar results as the recommended level of 3.7%.

Evaluation of a radiographic method to detect tibial dyschondroplasia lesions in broilers

This study aimed at developing radiographic techniques for the early detection of dyschondroplastic lesions in the tibia of broilers. The experiment was carried out at the facilities of UNIFOR/MG and Formiga and UNIFENAS/ Alfenas with 420 one-day-old male Cobb broilers. At 20 days of age, all birds were radiographed and identified with an alpha-numeric metal ring in the right leg. At 40 days of age, 42 broilers previously selected as a function of bone mineral density and lesion thickness scores were again radiographed and scored, and then sacrificed. Their right tibia was removed for gross and histological examination of the growth plate. The results showed that radiographic techniques are correlated with gross and histological examination and that there was no significant differences among techniques (P>0.05). it was concluded that the use of radiographic examination to identify tibial dyschondroplasia in broilers precludes the use of bone mineral density to diagnose this condition. The non-parametric statistical Chi-square test at 5% significance level was used to analyze the results.

Performance and egg quality of Japanese quails submitted to cyclic heat stress

Aiming at evaluating the influence of cyclic temperatures on the performance and egg quality of Japanese quails an experiment was carried out with 480 birds after egg production peak. Birds were housed in a bioclimatic chamber with automatic temperature control that contained two rooms, one maintained at thermoneutral temperature (21 ºC) and the other adjusted for the tested cyclic temperatures (24, 27, 30, 33 and 36 ºC at a time). Each room had a battery of five floors and ten cages, with a capacity of 24 birds per cage, totaling 240 birds per battery. Birds were fed iso-nutritious and iso-caloric diets. Data obtained under the tested cyclic temperatures were compared with those obtained under thermoneutral temperature. At the end of each experimental period (14 days) performance and egg quality parameters were evaluated. A completely randomized experimental design with two treatments (thermoneutral temperature and tested temperature) and ten replicates of 24 birds each. Cyclic increases of 27 ºC and higher in environmental temperature negatively affected bird performance, with reduced feed intake and consequent reductions in egg weight and mass. A cyclic increase of the environmental temperature to 36 ºC reduced the percentage of saleable eggs and egg production.

Removal capacity of Cd by natural zeolite / Capacidade de remoção do Cd por zeólita natural

This study aimed to determine the efficiency of the removal of cadmium by natural zeolite available in the region of Southern Brazil (zeolite basalt - ZB) comparing its performance with a commercial zeolite imported from Cuba (ZC). The exchange capacity of zeolite materials was determined by the Kitsopoulos (1999) method. The effect of pH on removal of Cd was measured at pH 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 (±0.2) and initial concentrations of 20 and 500 mg L-1. The competition between Cd and Cr was determined in the initial concentration of 20 mg kg-1 of Cd and Cr and pH 4.0 and 5.0. The maximum removal of cadmium was assessed at pH 4.0 and the initial concentrations of 20, 40, 80, 120, 200 and 500 mg L-1. Quantification of cadmium and chromium was carried out by atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomisation system type air-acetylene. To test the average percentage of removed Cd+2 and Cr+3 at different pH values we used the Scott-Knott 5% significance level. The increase in pH from 3.0 to 4.0 for increased removal of ZC and ZB Cd that occurred on increasing the pH from 4.0 to 5.0. The ZC showed higher removal at pH 4.0 and pH 5.0 in ZB. The highest percentage was desorbed for ZB initial concentration 500 mg L-1. The competitive removal was more significant for chromium. The maximum removal of Cd was calculated to 3433 mg kg-1 for ZC and 1387 mg kg-1 for ZB.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar a eficiência na remoção de cádmio por zeólita natural disponível na região do Planalto Catarinense (zeólita basalto - ZB) comparando sua eficiência com uma zeólita comercial importada de Cuba (ZC). A capacidade de troca dos materiais zeolíticos foi determinada pelo método de Kitsopoulos (1999). O efeito do pH na remoção de Cd foi avaliado a pH 3,0; 4,0; e 5,0 (±0,2) e concentrações iniciais de 20 e 500 mg L-1. A competição entre o Cd e Cr foi determinado na concentração inicial de 20 mg L-1 de Cd e Cr e valores de pH 4,0 e 5,0. A capacidade máxima de remoção de Cd foi avaliada em pH 4,0 e concentrações iniciais de 20, 40, 80, 120, 200 e 500 mg L-1. A quantificação do teor de cádmio e cromo foi realizada por espectroscopia de absorção atômica com sistema de atomização por chama do tipo ar-acetileno. Para teste de médias da porcentagem removida de Cd+2 e Cr+3 em diferentes valores de pH foi utilizado Scott-Knott a 5% de significância. O aumento do pH de 3,0 para 4,0 para ZC aumentou a remoção de Cd e para ZB isso ocorreu no aumento do pH de 4,0 para 5,0. A ZC apresentou maior remoção em pH 4,0 e a ZB em pH 5,0. A maior porcentagem dessorvida foi para ZB na concentração inicial 500 mg L-1. Na remoção competitiva houve maior remoção para cromo. A capacidade máxima de remoção calculada para Cd foi de 3433 mg kg-1 para ZC e 1387 mg kg-1 par

Removal capacity of Cd by natural zeolite / Capacidade de remoção do Cd por zeólita natural

This study aimed to determine the efficiency of the removal of cadmium by natural zeolite available in the region of Southern Brazil (zeolite basalt - ZB) comparing its performance with a commercial zeolite imported from Cuba (ZC). The exchange capacity of zeolite materials was determined by the Kitsopoulos (1999) method. The effect of pH on removal of Cd was measured at pH 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 (±0.2) and initial concentrations of 20 and 500 mg L-1. The competition between Cd and Cr was determined in the initial concentration of 20 mg kg-1 of Cd and Cr and pH 4.0 and 5.0. The maximum removal of cadmium was assessed at pH 4.0 and the initial concentrations of 20, 40, 80, 120, 200 and 500 mg L-1. Quantification of cadmium and chromium was carried out by atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomisation system type air-acetylene. To test the average percentage of removed Cd+2 and Cr+3 at different pH values we used the Scott-Knott 5% significance level. The increase in pH from 3.0 to 4.0 for increased removal of ZC and ZB Cd that occurred on increasing the pH from 4.0 to 5.0. The ZC showed higher removal at pH 4.0 and pH 5.0 in ZB. The highest percentage was desorbed for ZB initial concentration 500 mg L-1. The competitive removal was more significant for chromium. The maximum removal of Cd was calculated to 3433 mg kg-1 for ZC and 1387 mg kg-1 for ZB.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar a eficiência na remoção de cádmio por zeólita natural disponível na região do Planalto Catarinense (zeólita basalto - ZB) comparando sua eficiência com uma zeólita comercial importada de Cuba (ZC). A capacidade de troca dos materiais zeolíticos foi determinada pelo método de Kitsopoulos (1999). O efeito do pH na remoção de Cd foi avaliado a pH 3,0; 4,0; e 5,0 (±0,2) e concentrações iniciais de 20 e 500 mg L-1. A competição entre o Cd e Cr foi determinado na concentração inicial de 20 mg L-1 de Cd e Cr e valores de pH 4,0 e 5,0. A capacidade máxima de remoção de Cd foi avaliada em pH 4,0 e concentrações iniciais de 20, 40, 80, 120, 200 e 500 mg L-1. A quantificação do teor de cádmio e cromo foi realizada por espectroscopia de absorção atômica com sistema de atomização por chama do tipo ar-acetileno. Para teste de médias da porcentagem removida de Cd+2 e Cr+3 em diferentes valores de pH foi utilizado Scott-Knott a 5% de significância. O aumento do pH de 3,0 para 4,0 para ZC aumentou a remoção de Cd e para ZB isso ocorreu no aumento do pH de 4,0 para 5,0. A ZC apresentou maior remoção em pH 4,0 e a ZB em pH 5,0. A maior porcentagem dessorvida foi para ZB na concentração inicial 500 mg L-1. Na remoção competitiva houve maior remoção para cromo. A capacidade máxima de remoção calculada para Cd foi de 3433 mg kg-1 para ZC e 1387 mg kg-1 par

Phlebotomine fauna (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) in a residential area and in a fragment of savanna vegetation in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brazil.

Identification of phlebotomine species in endemic areas is fundamental for analyzing the eco-epidemiological determinants of leishmaniasis. This study had the aim of investigating the phlebotomine fauna in an urban area and in a fragment of native savanna in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, using CDC light traps. One hundred and twenty-three phlebotomine specimens belonging to seventeen different species were caught. Our results indicate synanthropic potential among vector species for leishmaniasis, such as the species Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi and L. whitmani. The species L. cerradincola had never been recorded in this region, such that this is the first report of this species in the State of Mato Grosso.

Phlebotomine fauna (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) in a residential area and in a fragment of savanna vegetation in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Fauna flebotomínica (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) em área residencial e em fragmento de cerrado no município de Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brasil

Identification of phlebotomine species in endemic areas is fundamental for analyzing the eco-epidemiological determinants of leishmaniasis. This study had the aim of investigating the phlebotomine fauna in an urban area and in a fragment of native savanna in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, using CDC light traps. One hundred and twenty-three phlebotomine specimens belonging to seventeen different species were caught. Our results indicate synanthropic potential among vector species for leishmaniasis, such as the species Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi and L. whitmani. The species L. cerradincola had never been recorded in this region, such that this is the first report of this species in the State of Mato Grosso.

A identificação das espécies de flebotomíneos em áreas endêmicas é fundamental para analisar os determinantes eco-epidemiológicos das leishmanioses. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a fauna flebotomínica em área urbana e em fragmento de cerrado nativo no município de Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso utilizando armadilhas luminosas tipo CDC. Foram capturados 123 flebotomíneos pertencentes a 17 espécies diferentes. Nossos resultados indicam potencial sinantrópico de espécies vetoras das leishmanioses, como as espécies Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi e L. whitmani. A espécie L. cerradincola não havia sido registrada na região, sendo este o primeiro relato desta espécie no Estado de Mato Grosso.

Effects of dietary calcium levels and limestone particicle size on the performance, tibia and blood of laying hens

A total of 405 23-week-old ISA® Brown layers were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design in a factorial arrangement with nine treatments consisting of three dietary calcium levels (3.5, 3.75, and 4.5%) and three limestone particle sizes (100% fine limestone (FL), 70% FL + 30% coarse limestone (CL) and 50% (FL) + 50% (CL)), with nine replicates of five birds per cage. The following parameters were evaluated: percentage of lay, defective eggs, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (per kg eggs and per dozen eggs), and mortality. Dietary Ca levels significantly affected lay, with birds fed diets containing 4.5% calcium producing less eggs as compared to those fed 3.0 and 3.75% Ca. Egg production linearly decreased as dietary Ca levels increased, but blood Ca levels (mg/L) increased in 28-week-old birds. The interaction of dietary Ca levels and limestone particle sizes resulted in a reduction in tibial ash Ca content as dietary Ca levels increased and as fine limestone was replaced by coarse limestone. It is concluded that a dietary Ca level of 3.75% and 100% fine particle limestone are required to maintain adequate egg production and available Ca blood level.(AU)

Phlebotomine fauna (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) in a residential area and in a fragment of savanna vegetation in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Fauna flebotomínica (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) em área residencial e em fragmento de cerrado no município de Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brasil

Identification of phlebotomine species in endemic areas is fundamental for analyzing the eco-epidemiological determinants of leishmaniasis. This study had the aim of investigating the phlebotomine fauna in an urban area and in a fragment of native savanna in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, using CDC light traps. One hundred and twenty-three phlebotomine specimens belonging to seventeen different species were caught. Our results indicate synanthropic potential among vector species for leishmaniasis, such as the species Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi and L. whitmani. The species L. cerradincola had never been recorded in this region, such that this is the first report of this species in the State of Mato Grosso.(AU)

A identificação das espécies de flebotomíneos em áreas endêmicas é fundamental para analisar os determinantes eco epidemiológicos das leishmanioses. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a fauna flebotomínica em área urbana e em fragmento de cerrado nativo no município de Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso utilizando armadilhas luminosas tipo CDC. Foram capturados 123 flebotomíneos pertencentes a 17 espécies diferentes. Nossos resultados indicam potencial sinantrópico de espécies vetoras das leishmanioses, como as espécies Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi e L. whitmani. A espécie L. cerradincola não havia sido registrada na região, sendo este o primeiro relato desta espécie no Estado de Mato Grosso.(AU)