Neuroprotection is improved by watertightness of fetal spina bifida repair in the sheep model.

OBJECTIVES: A contributing factor to unsuccessful prenatal spina bifida aperta (SBA) repair via an open approach may be incomplete neurosurgical repair causing persistent in-utero leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and exposure of the fetal spinal cord to amniotic fluid. We aimed to investigate the neurostructural and neurofunctional efficacy of watertight prenatal SBA repair in a validated SBA fetal lamb model. METHODS: A well-powered superiority study was conducted in the validated SBA fetal lamb model (n = 7 per group). The outcomes of lambs which underwent watertight or non-watertight multilayer repair through an open approach were compared to those of unrepaired SBA lambs (historical controls) at delivery (term = 145 days). At ∼75 days, fetal lambs underwent standardized induction of lumbar SBA. At ∼100 days, they were assigned to an either watertight or non-watertight layered repair group based on an intraoperative watertightness test using subcutaneous fluorescein injection. At 1-2 days postnatally, as primary outcome, we assessed reversal of hindbrain herniation using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Secondary proxies of neuroprotection were: absence of CSF leakage at the repair site; hindlimb motor function based on joint-movement score, locomotor grade and Motor Evoked Potential (MEP); four-score neuroprotection scale, encompassing live birth, complete hindbrain herniation reversal, absence of CSF leakage and joint-movement score ≥ 9/15; and brain and spinal cord histology and immunohistochemistry. As the watertightness test cannot be used clinically due to its invasiveness, we developed a potential surrogate intraoperative three-score skin-repair-quality scale based on visual assessment of the quality of the skin repair (suture inter-run distance ≤ 3 mm, absence of tear and absence of ischemia), with high quality defined by a score ≥ 2/3 and low quality by a score < 2/3, and assessed its relationship with improved outcome. RESULTS: Compared with unrepaired lambs, lambs with watertight repair achieved a high level of neuroprotection (neuroprotection score of 4/4 in 5/7 vs 0/7 lambs) as evidenced by: a significant 100% (vs 14%) reversal of hindbrain herniation on MRI; low CSF leakage (14% vs 100%); better hindlimb motor function, with higher joint-movement score, locomotor grade and MEP area under the curve and peak-to-peak amplitude; higher neuronal density in the hippocampus and corpus callosum; and higher reactive astrogliosis at the SBA lesion epicenter. Conversely, lambs with non-watertight SBA repair did not achieve the same level of neuroprotection (score of 4/4 in 1/7 lambs) compared with unrepaired lambs, with: a non-significant 86% (vs 14%) reversal of hindbrain herniation; high CSF leakage (43% vs 100%); no improvement in motor function; low brain neuron count in both the hippocampus and corpus callosum; and small spinal astroglial cell area at the epicenter. Both watertight layered repair and high (≥ 2/3) intraoperative skin-repair-quality score were associated with improved outcome, but the watertightness test and skin-repair-quality scale could not be used interchangeably due to result discrepancies. CONCLUSIONS: Watertight layered fetal SBA repair is neuroprotective since it improves brain and spinal-cord structure and function in the fetal lamb model. This translational research has important clinical implications. A neurosurgical technique that achieves watertightness should be adopted in all fetal centers to improve neuroprotection. Future clinical studies could assess whether a high skin-repair-quality score (≥ 2/3) correlates with neuroprotection. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Systematic review of the registered clinical trials for oncological hyperthermia treatment.

BACKGROUND: The use of heat to treat various diseases is called hyperthermia treatment (HT). Since the 1970s, the anti-cancer effects of HT have been investigated. Different HT techniques can be categorized as local, regional and whole-body hyperthermia treatment (WBHT). We aim to provide a summary of recent research done on HT to treat cancer. METHODS: In July 2020 ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched for all trials including hyperthermia and cancer registered between 2000 and 2020. Studies were excluded when they did not concern hyperthermal treatment, when they were not oncological studies, when they were observational or other non-interventional studies. RESULTS: Of 1654 identified trials, 235 were included. Of these 235 studies, 123 described the use of HIPEC (52.3%), 44 other types of regional HT (18.7%), 45 local HT (19.1%) and 15 WBHT (6.4%). A steady increase (720%) in research to hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) can be observed in the last decade. Although HIPEC is the most researched HT modality, an evolution in other HT technologies could be observed during the past decade. CONCLUSIONS: Research to HT to treat cancer has expanded fast. Some techniques, for example HIPEC start to be used outside of research context, but overall, more research is needed to establish a clear effect of these HT techniques.

Tolerability of long-term temperature controlled whole-body thermal treatment in advanced cancer-bearing dogs.

Aim: In oncology, thermal therapy is the application of external heat to fight cancer cells. The goal of whole-body thermal treatment (WBTT) is to raise the patient's core temperature to 39-42 °C, and represents the only thermal treatment modality that can act on both the primary tumor and distant metastases. However, WBTT carries potential risks for toxicity when applied without accurate thermometry and monitoring.Methods: ElmediX has developed a medical device, HyperTherm, to deliver long-term controlled and accurate WBTT (41.5 °C, up to 8 h). The safety of the device and thermal treatment protocol was initially evaluated in minipigs, and we present the confirmation of tolerability of WBTT in dogs with advanced cancer, in combination with a reduced dose of radiotherapy or chemotherapy.Results: Thermometry in liver, rectum, and tumor confirmed a homogeneous heating of these body parts. Monitoring of clinical parameters showed acceptable and reversible changes in liver, cardiac, muscle and coagulation parameters, as was expected. Combination of WBTT with both radiotherapy and chemotherapy only caused some low-grade adverse events.Conclusion: We conclude that our findings support the safe use of HyperTherm-mediated WBTT for canine patients with advanced malignancies. They also tend to support a genuine therapeutic potential for long-term WBTT which needs to be confirmed on a larger dog patient population. Combined with previously reported safety results in minipigs, these contribute to support the ongoing clinical evaluation of WBTT in advanced human cancer patients.

Establishment Probability of Anastrepha grandis and Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Brazilian Semiarid Based on Thermal Requirements.

The quarantine pests, Anastrepha grandis (Macquart) and Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquillett), are economically important for the fruit fly-free area in Brazilian semiarid, an area in which they are not yet present. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the probability of establishment of A. grandis and Z. cucurbitae based on the estimate number of generations in different climatic regions of the Brazilian semiarid. For scenarios of future projections, it was estimated the number of generations with increase of 1°C (low radiative forcing scenario) and 4°C (high radiative forcing scenario) in the air temperature. Finally, we also estimate the quarantine period to eliminate the invading population of cucurbit fruit flies in Brazilian semiarid. For this, the average historical air temperature of 32 semiarid municipalities was used and the biology data of fruit flies (thermal threshold of development and thermal constant) were used. The fruit flies are able to present several generations per year in Brazilian semiarid. Anastrepha grandis can present from 7.99 (Sergipe) to 9.66 (Piauí) generations. The melon fly Z. cucurbitae may present from 31.25 (Sergipe) to 40.66 (Piauí) generations. The estimation of species multiplication is accentuated in any season, with greater amplitude in spring and summer. The municipalities of Piauí, Ceará, and Rio Grande do Norte presented the highest estimates of fruit fly generations. The increase of air temperature in a future scenario may favor the quarantine pests, A. grandis and Z. cucurbitae, in Brazilian semiarid. In conclusion, the species A. grandis and Z. cucurbitae can be established in Brazilian semiarid, with particular concern for the fruit fly-free area.

Influence of hydrocolloids (galactomannan and xanthan gum) on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of gluten-free cakes based on fava beans (Phaseolus lunatus).

Most gluten-free bakery formulations have starch sources of low nutritional value. The objective of this work was to use fava beans (Phaseolus lunatus) for the production of gluten-free sponge cakes, in addition to evaluating the effects of the partial substitution of fava bean flour by galactomannan and xanthan gum, isolated or mixed at 0.5 and 1.0% proportions, compared with a commercial reference. The properties such as viscosity, specific gravity and microscopy of the air bubbles were evaluated in the raw cakes, while the cooked cakes were analyzed according to physicochemical (chemical composition, specific volume, texture and color) and sensorial properties. Hydrocolloids increased the viscosity, specific gravity, and incorporation of air into the batters. Xanthan gum increased the cakes' firmness after cooking; in what concerns color parameters, hydrocolloids did not interfere. Cakes based on fava beans had better sensory acceptance with or without the presence of hydrocolloids and presented higher levels of moisture, proteins, lipids and ashes when compared to the commercial reference, proving to be an excellent food option without gluten and high nutritional value.

Prevalence of hypertension and its associated factors in contaminated areas of the Santos-São Vicente Estuarine region and Bertioga, Brazil: 2006-2009.

In Brazil, cardiovascular diseases account for 33% of deaths and the prevalence of hypertension is of approximately 22%. The Santos and São Vicente Estuarine System is the most important example of environmental degradation by chemicals from industrial sources. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of hypertension and its associated factors in the population of this estuary in the period 2006-2009. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the aforementioned prevalence of hypertension in the evaluated areas, as well as risk factors for this disease in four contaminated areas located in the Estuary, and one area outside Estuary, the city of Bertioga. Associations between categorical variables were tested using Pearson's chi-square test incorporating Yates' correction, or Fisher's exact test. Single and multiple logistic regression models were applied to evaluate the risk factors for hypertension. The highest prevalence of hypertension was found in Continental São Vicente (28.4%). The risk factors for hypertension were the following: living in Center of Cubatão (OR: 1.3; IC95%: 1.0 - 1.6) and Continental São Vicente (OR: 1.4; IC95%: 1.1 - 1.8); illiterate (OR: 1.9; IC95%: 1.1 - 3.2); living in the area for more than 20 years (OR: 1.2; IC95%: 1.0 - 1.5); group of people aged 36-60 years (OR: 3.9; IC95%: 3.3 - 4.6) and who have had past occupational exposure (OR: 1.3; IC95%: 1.1 - 1.6). Results indicate that living in contaminated areas, especially for a longer time, is a risk factor for hypertension.

Association of TNF -1031 C/C as a potential protection marker for leprosy development in Amazonas state patients, Brazil.

Polymorphisms present in the TNF promoter region has shown to influence the gene transcription. Leprosy displays different clinical manifestations according to the immune responses of the individual infected with Mycobacterium leprae. In this study, we evaluated the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) -238 G/A (rs361525), -308 G/A (rs1800629), -857 C/T (rs1799724), -863 A/C (rs1800630) and -1031 T/C (rs1799964) in the promoter region of the TNF to see whether these SNPs influence host-susceptibility to leprosy and the different clinical manifestation. Nucleotide sequencing was performed with DNA samples from 108 leprosy patients and 253 control subjects. An association between -1031 C/C genotype and protection from leprosy was observed when leprosy patients were compared to controls (OR 0.11; 95% CI=0.01-0.82; p=0.012). The -857 C/T genotype may be associated with susceptibility to leprosy (OR=1.81; 95% CI=1.09-3.00; p=0.028). Similar genotype and allele frequencies for the SNPs -308 G/A and -238 G/A were observed between leprosy patients and control subjects. Altogether, TNF polymorphisms in the promoter region may be predictive of leprosy outcome.

Prevalence of liver diseases as referred by people living in the Santos and São Vicente Estuary.

The Santos and São Vicente Estuary has suffered extensively over the years from irregular industrial deposits. The present study aimed to evaluate liver disease prevalence and potential associated risk factors in four of the Estuary's areas (Pilões and Água-Fria, Cubatão Center, Continental São Vicente, and Guarujá) and a reference area (Bertioga). This study consisted of a cross-sectional study design, in which a questionnaire was used to collect information in 820 households at each of the study areas. The proportion of total liver diseases, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and cancer (liver, biliary tract, and pancreas) per area were estimated. Pearson's chi-square test and two proportion differences test were applied in order to evaluate associations between disease occurrence and areas and to test differences between two proportions, respectively. Single and multiple logistic regression models were applied to assess associations between disease prevalence and the different study areas. Liver disease prevalence was 1.5 % among all inhabitants and 1.4 % among those without any type of exposure. Among those who reported the presence of liver disease, a higher percentage of the participants that reported hepatitis (27.7 %) or other liver disease (48.7 %) did not report occupational or alcohol exposures. Hepatitis (77.8 %) was the most reported disease, and a statistical association between living in Pilões and Água-Fria and the occurrence of hepatitis was observed (Pearson's χ (2): z = 18.1; p = 0.001). The consumption of locally-produced groceries (2.88; CI: 1.24-6.70) and water (5.88; CI: 2.24-15.45) were shown to be risk factors for the occurrence of liver disease. Thus, environmental exposure is still a public health problem present in the estuary region.

Efeito da suplementação com Blocos Multinutricionais sobre o desempenho e características de carcaça de ovinos e caprinos na Caatinga / Effect of supplementation with Multinutrient Blocks on the performance and carcass characteristics of sheep and goats in Caatinga

Este trabalho avaliou o desempenho e as características de carcaça e não constituintes de carcaça de ovinos e caprinos em área de caatinga, suplementados com blocos multinutricionais (BMs). O trabalho foi desenvolvido na Estação Experimental da EMEPA em Soledade, Paraíba, Brasil, de acordo com um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso com 3x2 tratamentos fatoriais (3 níveis de suplementação de animais em pastejo na caatinga: S1 = sal mineral; S2 = BMs; e S3 = BMs + feno de capim buffel, e duas espécies de animais: ovinos e caprinos) e dez repetições de um animal. Os ganhos de peso se mostraram mais elevados para os animais suplementados com sal mineral. Os ovinos obtiveram ganho de peso médio diário (GPMD=104,83g) e ganho de peso total (GPT=11,32kg) superior aos caprinos (GPMD=92,90g e GPT=10,04kg). O peso vivo ao abate (PVA), o peso da carcaça quente (PCQ) e fria (PCF) foram superiores para os animais suplementados com sal mineral. O peso corporal vazio (PCV), rendimento biológico (RB), rendimento comercial (RC), rendimento verdadeiro (RV) e perda por resfriamento (PPR) não foram afetados pelos níveis de suplementação. O PVA dos ovinos (PVA=27,62kg) superou o dos caprinos (PVA= 25,34kg), e o RB, RC e RV dos caprinos foram superiores aos dos ovinos. Houve efeito significativo (P<0,05) dos níveis de suplementação no rendimento (%) do peso do trato gastrintestinal cheio (TGIc), peso do trato gastrintestinal vazio (TGIv), fígado, coração e rins. A suplementação com blocos multinutricionais ou em conjunto com feno de baixa qualidade, para ovinos e caprinos sob pastejo direto na caatinga, com forragem em quantidade e qualidade satisfatórias, não resulta em ganhos produtivos significativos...

This study evaluated the performance and carcass characteristics and non carcass constituents of sheep and goats foraging in the caatinga rangeland, supplemented with multi-nutrients blocks (MBs). The experiment was carried out at EMEPA Experimental Station in Soledade-PB, Brazil, according to a completely randomized design with 3x2 factorial treatments (three levels of supplementation of animal foraging in the caatinga rangeland: S1 = mineral salt; S2 = MBs, and S3 = MBs + buffel grass hay, and 2 species: sheep and goat) and 10 replications of one animal. Mean daily and total weight gain (MDWG and TWG) showed to be higher for animals supplemented with salt, and it was higher for sheep (MDWG=104.83 g and TWG=11. 32 kg) than for goats (MDWG=92.90 g and TWG=10.04 kg). Slaughtering weight (SW), hot carcass (HCW) and cold carcass (CCW) weights were higher for animals supplemented with mineral salt. Empty body weight (EBW), biological yield (BY), commercial yield (CY), true yield (TY) and loss by cooling (LC) were not affected by supplementation levels. Sheep SW=27.62 kg was higher than goat SW=25.34, while BR, CR and VR were higher for goats. There were significant (P<0.05) effects of supplementation levels on yield (%) of weight of the full gastrointestinal tract (IGTc), weight of the empty gastrointestinal tract (IGTv), liver, heart and kidneys. Supplementation with multi-nutrient blocks alone or in conjunction with low quality hay for sheep and goats grazing in the caatinga rangeland with satisfactory forage quantity and quality does not result in significant productivity gains...

Regime alimentar para ganho compensatório de ovinos em confinamento: desempenho produtivo e morfometria do rúmen e do intestino delgado / Diet for compensatory gain of feedlot lambs: performance and morphometry of the rumen and small intestine

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do regime alimentar para ganho compensatório sobre o desempenho produtivo, o peso do corpo vazio, o peso dos componentes abióticos, o peso e a proporção do TGI e a morfometria do rúmen e do intestino delgado de cordeiros terminados em confinamento. Para tanto, foram utilizados 40 cordeiros Santa Inês, machos não castrados, alojados em baias individuais. O confinamento foi dividido em dois períodos distintos de 42 dias: um de restrição alimentar, com quatro tratamentos (0, 20, 40 e 60% de restrição), e outro de realimentação, em que todos os animais foram realimentados sem restrição. Ao final do período de confinamento, os cordeiros foram abatidos para mensuração do peso do TGI, do peso dos componentes abióticos e para obtenção dos fragmentos do rúmen e do intestino delgado, os quais foram posteriormente utilizados na confecção das lâminas histológicas usadas para avaliação da morfometria das papilas ruminais e das vilosidades e criptas do intestino (µm). As variáveis relativas ao desempenho, além de peso ao abate, peso do corpo vazio e peso do TGI, diminuíram à medida que se aumentou o nível de restrição prévia. A largura das papilas ruminais diminuiu, variando de 555,7 a 470,3µm; a área das vilosidades do intestino aumentou, variando de 81042,8 a 92033,7µm2. O regime alimentar para ganho compensatório diminuiu o ganho de peso, o peso ao abate, o peso do corpo vazio e o peso do trato gastrintestinal de cordeiros Santa Inês, terminados em confinamento, além de afetar a morfometria das papilas ruminais e das vilosidades do intestino delgado...

The aim was evaluate the effect of diet for compensatory growth on performance, empty weight body, weight of abiotic components, weight and proportion of TGI and morphology of the rumen and small intestine of lambs feedlot. Thus, we used 40 Santa Inês non castrated male lambs, housed in individual pens. The containment was divided into two distinct periods of 42 days: a food restriction, with four treatments (0, 20, 40 and 60% restriction), and a feedback loop, where all the animals were fed again without restriction. At the end of the period of confinement they were slaughtered to measure the weight of TGI, weight and abiotic components for obtaining fragments of the rumen and small intestine, which were subsequently used for the preparation of histological slides used to evaluate the morphology of the papillae rumen and the intestinal villi and crypts (μm). The variables for performance, slaughter weight, empty body weight and weight of TGI decreased as they increased the level of prior restraint. The width of the rumen papillae decreased ranging from 555.7 to 470.3μm; the area of increased intestinal villi ranged from 81042.8 to 92033.7μm2. The diet for compensatory gain decreases weight gain, slaughter weight, empty body weight and the weight of the gastrointestinal tract of Santa Ines lambs, besides affecting the morphology of rumen papillae and villi of the small intestine...

Regime alimentar para ganho compensatório de ovinos em confinamento: composição regional e tecidual da carcaça / Diet for compensatory gain of feedlot lambs: commercial composition of carcass cuts and tissues

Determinou-se o efeito do regime alimentar para ganho compensatório sobre a composição regional e tecidual da carcaça de cordeiros terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 40 ovinos Santa Inês, machos, com média de 17±1,7kg de peso vivo (PV) e 100 dias de idade. Ao final do período de confinamento, os cordeiros foram abatidos, e a meia carcaça esquerda foi seccionada em cinco cortes comerciais primários: pescoço, paleta, costilhar, lombo e perna. A perna foi dissecada em músculos, ossos e gorduras, e, em seguida, teve seu índice de musculosidade determinado. Foi mensurada a hipertrofia muscular por meio da média do diâmetro das fibras musculares. O peso (g) da meia carcaça esquerda, do pescoço, da paleta, do costilhar, do lombo e da perna diminuiu linearmente, à medida que aumentou o nível de restrição prévia, de 0% até 60%, variando, respectivamente, de 11497,4 a 8888,5; de 1453,8 a 1211,4; de 1955,4 a 1560,9; de 3420,0 a 2604,6; de 1669,4 a 1161,6 e de 2998,8 a 2350,0. No rendimento dos cortes, apenas o lombo sofreu efeito do regime alimentar, diminuindo de 14,5 para 13,1%. O índice de musculosidade da perna (0,42 a 0,39) e o diâmetro das fibras musculares (46,0 a 43,4µm) também diminuíram com o aumento da restrição prévia. A restrição alimentar seguida por realimentação diminui o peso dos cortes e não afeta seu rendimento; diminui também a proporção de gordura da carcaça, produzindo, assim, cortes mais leves e carne com menor teor de gordura.

The effect of diets for compensatory gain on the commercial cut yield and carcasses tissue composition of finished feedlot lambs was determined. A total of 40 Santa Inês lambs, with mean body weight (BW) of 17±1.7kg and 100 days old were used. The lambs were slaughtered; the left half carcass was sectioned into five primary commercial cuts: neck, shoulder, rib, loin and leg. The leg was dissected into muscle, bone and fat, and then the muscularity of the leg was determined. Muscle hypertrophy was measured by the mean diameter of muscle fibers. The left half carcass, neck, shoulder, rib, loin and leg weight decreased linearly between 0 and 60% of previous food restriction levels, ranging, respectively, from 11497.4 to 8888.5g; from 1453.8 to 1211.4g; from 1955.4 to 1560.9g; from 3420.0 to 2604.6g; from 1669.4 to 1161.6g and from 2998.8 to 2350.0g, as well as loin yield (from 14.5 to 13.1%), leg musculosity index (from 0.42 to 0,39) and muscle fiber diameter (from 46.0 to 43.4µm). Food restriction followed by refeeding promoted decreasing in the weight of cuts and did not affect the yield, and it also decreased the proportion of fat in the carcass, resulting in lighter cuts and leaner meat.

Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax in an area of transmission located in Pará State, Brazil, determined by amplification of mtDNA using a real-time PCR assay.

The need for a more sensitive and time-efficient assay for malaria has led to the development of molecular assays involving real-time PCR (qPCR), a procedure that has the potential to detect low levels of parasitemia, identify mixed infections, and allow for precise differentiation of species via melting curve analysis or TaqMan fluorescence-labeled probes. Since the first study published in 2001 at least 17 assays have been developed, most of them using SSUrRNA as the target gene. We used qPCR to detect Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax by amplification of mtDNA; this technique was evaluated on whole-blood samples from people living in areas of malaria transmission in the Brazilian Amazon region located in the area of inclusion of highway BR-163 (Cuiabá-Santarém) in Pará State: São Luiz do Tapajós, a municipal district of Itaituba (N = 74); Três Boeiras, a municipal district of Trairão (N = 134), and São Raimundo, a municipal district of Aveiro (N = 62). The results from the real-time PCR-based method were compared to conventional microscopy and to an established mtDNA-PCR assay. The qPCR (mtDNA) method was 16-19 times more efficient than the conventional PCR (mtDNA) and microscopy for detecting plasmodial infections.

Efeito do regime alimentar sobre o perfil metabólico de ovinos Santa Inês em confinamento / Effect of diet on the metabolic profile of Santa Inês sheep feedlot

Avaliou-se o perfil metabólico de 40 ovinos Santa Inês, inteiros, com peso vivo médio inicial de 17±1,7kg,, submetidos à restrição alimentar seguida de realimentação em confinamento, distribuídos em quatro tratamentos: 0, 20, 40 e 60% de restrição alimentar. Dois ensaios foram desenvolvidos, um referente à restrição e outro à realimentação. Para tanto, foi utilizado delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e 10 repetições, e distribuído em fatorial cruzado 4x3. Observou-se na fase de restrição que os níveis de fósforo foram mais altos nos animais sob restrição alimentar; o mesmo ocorrendo na fase final para as concentrações de proteínas totais (PT), albumina (Alb) e colesterol total. A gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT) decresceu de forma linear com o aumento da restrição. No segundo ensaio, verificou-se que as concentrações de PT, Alb, globulina, colesterol total, lipoproteína de alta densidade, GGT e magnésio (Mg) apresentaram diferença (P<0,05) entre os períodos de coleta. Já na restrição prévia, observou-se comportamento linear decrescente para GGT e interação tratamento versus período de coleta para a concentração de cálcio. Os níveis de restrição alimentar afetaram o metabolismo proteico e não interferiram no metabolismo energético, e a realimentação resultou em alteração no metabolismo proteico, energético e mineral.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the metabolic profile of 40 Santa Inês sheep, whole, with average weight of 17±1,7kg, submitted to food restriction followed by refeeding in confinement, distributed in four treatments: 0, 20, 40 and 60% restriction food. Two tests were developed, one for restriction and one for refeeding. In this experiment a completely randomized design was used, with four treatments and 10 repetitions, distributed in a factorial 4x3 crossover. In the constraint phase it was observed that phosphorus levels were higher in animals under food restriction, this also occurred in the final stage for of total protein (TP), albumin (Alb) and total cholesterol concentrations. The gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) decreased linearly with increasing restriction. On the second trial it was found that concentrations of PT, Alb, globulin, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, GGT and Mg were similar (P<0,05) between collection periods. In the previous restriction, a decreasing linear behavior and interaction treatment for GGT versus collection period for the concentration of calcium was observed. The levels of food restriction affect protein metabolism and did not interfere with energy metabolism, and feedback resulted in changes in protein, energy and mineral metabolism.

Biological Activities of Libidibia (Caesalpinia) ferrea var. parvifolia (Mart. ex Tul.) L. P. Queiroz Pod Preparations.

Libidibia ferrea has been used in folk medicine throughout Brazil, and this study evaluated the biological activities of crude extract (CE) as well as a partially purified fraction (F80) obtained from its pods. Results from the MTT assay revealed that only F80 inhibited NCI-H292 cell growth; however, neither CE nor F80 reduced HEp-2 cell growth or sarcoma 180 tumor weight with the in vivo assay. Acute oral toxicity of the extract and fraction was evaluated following the steps of Guideline 423, using female mice; LD(50) for both preparations was determined as 2,500 mg/kg body weight. CE and F80 promoted a reduction of the leukocyte number and nitrite level in inflammatory exudates when the anti-inflammatory assay (carrageenan-induced peritonitis) was performed. CE and F80 inhibited writhing regarding antinociceptive activity (acetic acid-induced writhing response in mice). In conclusion, CE and F80 have no significant cytotoxic or antitumor activities in cell lines showing low toxicity and no action against tumors in vivo. Both preparations revealed anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, corroborating the pharmacological basis of L. ferrea for ethnomedical use.

A novel antimicrobial lectin from Eugenia malaccensis that stimulates cutaneous healing in mice model.

OBJECTIVE: The present work reports the purification and partial characterization of an antibacterial lectin (EmaL) obtained from Eugenia malaccensis seeds as well as the evaluation of its effect in the daily topical treatment of repairing process of cutaneous wounds in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cutaneous wound was produced by the incision of the skin and use of lectin in the treatment of mice cutaneous wounds was evaluated. Surgical wounds were treated daily with a topical administration of EmaL and parameters such as edema, hyperemia, scab, granulation and scar tissues as well as contraction of wounds were analyzed. RESULTS: A novel lectin, with a molecular mass of 14 kDa, was isolated from E. malaccensis using affinity chromatography. The lectin (EmaL) agglutinated glutaraldehyde-treated rabbit and human erythrocytes; the lectin-induced rabbit erythrocyte agglutination was inhibited by glucose, casein, ovalbumin and fetuin. Also, Emal was very effective in the inhibition of bacterial growth, with the best inhibition results obtained for Staphylococcus aureus. Inflammatory signals such as edema and hyperemia were statistically less intense when EmaL was applied compared to the control. The histopathological analysis showed that the treated injured tissue presented reepithelialization (complete or partial) and areas of transition more evidenced than those of the control group, especially due to well organized pattern of collagen fibers presented in the granulation fibrous tissue. CONCLUSION: Presented results are a preliminary indication of the pharmacological interest in using EmaL as antimicrobial agent and in the repairing process of cutaneous wounds.

Coagulant and antibacterial activities of the water-soluble seed lectin from Moringa oleifera.

AIMS: The aim of this work was to analyse the coagulant and antibacterial activities of lectin isolated from Moringa oleifera seeds that are used for water treatment. METHODS AND RESULTS: The water-soluble M. oleifera lectin (WSMoL) was separated from nonhemagglutinating components (NHC) by chitin chromatography. WSMoL fluorescence spectrum was not altered in the presence of ions that are often present in high concentrations in polluted waters. Seed extract, NHC and WSMoL showed coagulant activity on a turbid water model. Both NHC and WSMoL reduced the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, but only WSMoL caused a reduction in Escherichia coli. WSMoL was also more effective in reducing the growth of ambient lake water bacteria. CONCLUSIONS: Data obtained from this study indicate that WSMoL is a potential natural biocoagulant for water, reducing turbidity, suspended solids and bacteria. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Moringa oleifera seeds are a material effective in the treatment of water.

Purification of a lectin from Eugenia uniflora L. seeds and its potential antibacterial activity.

AIMS: The aim of this work was to analyse the antimicrobial properties of a purified lectin from Eugenia uniflora L. seeds. METHODS AND RESULTS: The E. uniflora lectin (EuniSL) was isolated from the seed extract and purified by ion-exchange chromatography in DEAE-Sephadex with a purification factor of 11.68. The purified lectin showed a single band on denaturing electrophoresis, with a molecular mass of 67 kDa. EuniSL agglutinated rabbit and human erythrocytes with a higher specificity for rabbit erythrocytes. The haemagglutination was not inhibited by the tested carbohydrates but glycoproteins exerted a strong inhibitory action. The lectin proved to be thermo resistant with the highest stability at pH 6.5 and divalent ions did not affect its activity. EuniSL demonstrated a remarkable nonselective antibacterial activity. EuniSL strongly inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella sp. with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.5 microg ml(-1), and moderately inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus sp. and Escherichia coli with a MIC of 16.5 microg ml(-1). CONCLUSIONS: EuniSL was found to be effective against bacteria. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The strong antibacterial activity of the studied lectin indicates a high potential for clinical microbiology and therapeutic applications.

Estimulação elétrica neuromuscular em cães com atrofia muscular induzida / Neuromuscular electric stimulation in dogs with induced muscle atrophy

Empregou-se a estimulação elétrica neuromuscular (EENM) de baixa freqüência no músculo quadríceps femoral de cães com atrofia induzida e avaliou-se a ocorrência de ganho de massa nessa musculatura. Foram utilizados oito cães com pesos entre 15 e 30kg, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos denominados de I ou controle e II ou tratado. A articulação femorotibiopatelar esquerda foi imobilizada por 30 dias pelo método de transfixação percutânea tipo II, com retirada de aparelho de imobilização após esse período. Decorridas 48 horas da remoção, foi realizada a EENM nos cães do grupo II, cinco vezes por semana, com intervalo de 24 horas cada sessão, pelo período de 60 dias. Foram avaliadas a circunferência da coxa, a goniometria do joelho, a análise clínica da marcha, as enzimas creatina-quinase (CK) e aspartato-amino-transferase (AST) e a morfometria das fibras musculares em cortes transversais do músculo vasto lateral colhido mediante biópsia muscular. A EENM foi empregada no músculo quadríceps femoral na freqüência de 50Hz, duração de pulso de 300 milisegundos e relação de tempo on/off de 1:2. Quanto à morfometria das fibras do músculo vasto lateral, no grupo tratado houve aumento significativo (P<0,05) da área transversal aos 90 dias em relação ao dia zero. A EENM de baixa freqüência ocasiona hipertrofia do músculo vasto lateral em cães após a imobilização rígida temporária da articulação do joelho.

Low frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was used on the femoral quadriceps of dogs with induced muscular atrophy and the occurrence of gain in mass in these muscles was evaluated. Eight dogs from 15 to 30kg were randomly distributed in two groups named I, or control; and II, or treated. For the induction of muscular atrophy, the left femoral-tibial-patellar joint was immobilized for 30 days by percutaneous transfixation type II. After 30 days, the immobilization device was removed. The NMES treatment began 48 hours after the removal of the immobilization device of the dogs of group II, and it was carried out five times per week with an interval of 24 hours between each session, for 60 days. The following parameters were measured: thigh circumference, goniometry of the knee, clinical gait analysis, creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes, and morphometry of the muscular fibers in transversal cuts of the vastus lateralis muscle collected through muscular biopsy. The NMES was applied on the femoral quadriceps at a frequency of 50 Hz, with pulse duration of 300 milliseconds, and the on/off time was at a proportion of 1:2. Regarding the morphometry of the vastus lateralis fibers, a significant increase (P<0.05) in the transversal area of the treated group at 90 days was observed when compared with that identified at the time of immobilization. Thus, it can be concluded that low frequency NMES brings about hypertrophy of the vastus lateralis muscle in dogs after temporary rigid immobilization of the knee joint.

Chitosan from Syncephalastrum racemosum used as a film support for lipase immobilization.

Chitosan from a native Mucoralean strain, Syncephalastrum racemosum, isolated from herbivorous dung (Northeast-Brazil), was used as a film support for lipase immobilization. S. racemosum showed highest chitosan yield (152 mg g dry mycelia weight(-1); 15.2% of dry mycelia weight) among the nine strains screened, which presented 89% D-glucosamine. A chitosan film was used for lipase (EC 3.1.1.3) immobilization using glutaraldehyde as a bifunctional agent. The immobilized lipase retained 47% (12.6 micromol s(-1) m(-2)) of its initial catalytic activity after four cycles of reaction. This result is comparable (same order of magnitude) to that of the enzyme immobilized on film made from commercially available crustacean chitosan.

Development of Fungicide Cross Resistance in Helminthosporium solani Populations from California.

Helminthosporium solani populations on potato from the Tulelake area in California frequently have been exposed to thiophanate-methyl but not benomyl. Assessment of three H. solani populations found that 182 of 238 isolates were resistant to both thiophanate-methyl and benomyl and 56 isolates were sensitive to both fungicides. None of the isolates exhibited a differential reaction to the two fungicides. The effective concentrations that reduced growth by 50% for resistant isolates of H. solani were approximately 400 mg/liter for thiophanate- methyl and 35 mg/liter for benomyl. Two point mutations were detected in the ß-tubulin gene from H. solani isolates from California; however, only the mutation at the 455-nucleotide position (codon 198) was strongly associated with thiophanate-methyl resistance. This mutation led to a change of glutamic acid to alanine at codon 198. Independent of fungicide resistance, a mutation at the 836-site was detected in all California isolates. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assay was used to identify thiophanate-methyl resistance in H. solani; resistant isolates exhibited two DNA fragments of 390 and 482 bp, whereas sensitive isolates had three fragments of 62, 390, and 420 bp. Every isolate assigned either as resistant or sensitive by the PCR-based RFLP assay correlated 100% with the results of the assay on fungicide-amended medium.