Refinement of the rKLi8.3-Based Serodiagnostic ELISA Allows Detection of Canine Leishmaniosis in Dogs with Low Antibody Titers.

The diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis (CanL) still represents a challenge due to the variable clinical manifestations and the large number of asymptomatic dogs. Serological tests are most commonly used to detect infected animals, revealing anti-Leishmania antibodies, mainly of the IgG isotype. Recently, a new diagnostic antigen, rKLi8.3, containing 8.3 kinesin tandem repeats (TR) from a Leishmania infantum strain from Sudan, has been shown to provide excellent specificity and sensitivity for the detection of Leishmania-infected humans and dogs. However, asymptomatic animals with very low antibody titers are often difficult to detect by serodiagnosis. Thus, we wondered whether the addition of an anti-IgG-enhancing step in the protein A/G-based rKLi8.3-ELISA will improve the diagnostic performance without decreasing the specificity. For this, parasitologically confirmed CanL cases with low or high clinical scores, uninfected healthy controls and dogs with other infections were tested by rKLi8.3-ELISA as well as two different immunochromatographic rapid tests, rKLi8.3-lateral flow test (LFT) and Dual Path Platform (DPP®) based on the rK28 antigen. Our results show that the diagnostic accuracies of the rKLi8.3-ELISA and LFT were similar to that of DPP, missing several asymptomatic animals. However, the addition of a secondary, amplifying anti-dog IgG antibody in the protein A/G-based rKLi8.3-ELISA enabled the detection of nearly all asymptomatic dogs without compromising its specificity.

Physical activity as a protective factor for climacteric symptoms / Atividade física como fator de proteção para sintomas do climatério

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in climacteric with the level and intensity of physical activity (PA), body mass index (BMI), use of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) and education level. The study was carried out with 641 climacteric women, 56 ± 6 years of age, who completed four questionnaires: Kupperman-Blatt Index (KBI) and Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) to assess climacteric symptoms, the Cervantes Scale (CS) for assess QOL, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire ­ short version (IPAQ) to assess PA and questions about weight, height, use of MHT and level of education. Spearman's correlation was performed in SPSS 26 software and binary logistic regression in Stata 14.0 software, adopting a p < 0.05. Having a university education (KBI = 44%), practicing more than 150 minutes of total PA/week (KBI = 48%) and more than 10 minutes of vigorous PA/week (KBI = 36%) were protective factors for vasomotor symptoms, weakness, headache, paresthesia, vertigo, arthralgia or myalgia, palpitations, tingling and symptoms related to moderate/high mood. Having a normal BMI (CS =4 3%), university level of education (CS = 46%) and practicing more than 150 minutes of total PA/week (CS = 61%) are protective factors for better QOL. For psychological, somatic and urogen-ital symptoms, assessed by MRS, there was no association with exposure factors. Thus, reaching the PA recommendations, having a university education level and having a normal BMI are protective factors for moderate and severe climacteric symptoms and QOL

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar a associação entre os sintomas e qualidade de vida (QDV ) no cli-matério com o nível e intensidade da atividade física (AF), índice de massa corporal (IMC), utilização de terapia hormonal da menopausa (THM) e nível de escolaridade.O estudo foi realizado com 641 mulheres climatéricas, com 56 ± 6 anos de idade, que preencheram o Índice de Kupperman-Blatt (IKB) e Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) para avaliar os sintomas do climatério, a Escala de Cervantes (EC) para avaliar a QDV, o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física ­ versão curta (IPAQ) para avaliar AF e perguntas sobre peso, estatura, uso de THM e nível de escolaridade. Foi realizado a correlação de Spearman no software SPSS 26 e a regressão logística binária no software Stata 14.0, adotando-se um p < 0,05. Ter nível de escola-ridade universitário (IKB = 44%), praticar mais de 150 minutos de AF total/semana (IKB = 48%) e mais de 10 minutos de AF vigorosa/semana (IKB = 36%), são fatores de proteção para sintomas vasomotores, fraque-za, cefaleia, parestesia, vertigem, artralgia ou mialgia, palpitações, formigamentos e sintomas relacionados ao humor moderado/acentuado. Ter IMC normal (EC = 43%), nível de escolaridade universitário (EC = 46%) e praticar mais de 150 minutos de AF total/semana (EC = 61%), são fatores protetores de proteção para melhor QDV. Para sintomas psicológicos, somáticos e urogenital, avaliados pelo MRS, não houve associação com os fatores de exposição.Assim, atingir as recomendações de AF, ter nível de escolaridade universitário e o IMC normal são fatores de proteção para sintomas climatéricos moderados e acentuados e QDV

Regional Hypertonic Citrate Anticoagulation in Membrane Therapeutic Plasma Exchange: A Case Series.

RATIONALE: Protocols for regional citrate anticoagulation with the hypertonic 4% trisodium citrate solution have been recently described as an anticoagulation strategy during membrane therapeutic plasma exchange (mTPE). The effect of citrate in the patient's systemic hemostasis is negligible, thus regional citrate anticoagulation application is advantageous in circumstances in which heparin-based protocols are deemed unsafe for patients with a high risk of bleeding. The downsides of using hypertonic citrate solutions are mainly hypocalcemia and hypernatremia that ultimately can cause adverse clinical events. PRESENTING CONCERNS OF THE PATIENT: (1) A 57-year-old Caucasian female with a history of active vaginal bleeding secondary to endometrial hyperplasia. She had a history of antiphospholipid syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus with marked refractory autoimmune thrombocytopenia. Her platelet count was persistently below 4,000/mm3 even after different immunosuppressive regimens and daily platelet transfusions. (1) A 70-year-old Caucasian female was hospitalized presenting acute kidney injury stage 3 due to rapidly progressive antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis, however without the need for renal replacement therapy. At admission, serum creatinine (sCr) was 3.56 mg/dL (normal range: 0.53-1.00 mg/dL). Her baseline sCr was 0.8 mg/dL obtained 6 months earlier. Chest tomography revealed bilateral masses compatible with granulomatous lesions and no signs of alveolar bleeding. Since severe cases of ANCA vasculitis involving the lungs may evolve with alveolar hemorrhage, heparin was avoided. DIAGNOSES: (1) Systemic lupus erythematosus-associated autoimmune thrombocytopenia and (2) ANCA-associated vasculitis with kidney and lung involvement. INTERVENTIONS: Herein, we describe a case series of 12 consecutive mTPE treatments in 2 different patients using regional 4% trisodium citrate anticoagulation. OUTCOMES: All the sessions were uneventful, presented only minor electrolyte imbalances, and were effectively completed without early interruptions due to clotting of the plasmafilter. TEACHING POINTS: In our 2 cases, extracorporeal regional citrate anticoagulation was successful in optimizing plasmafilter patency without bleeding events in 2 high-risk patients using established protocols for the citrate and calcium infusions.

FONDEMENT: Les protocoles d'anticoagulation régionale avec une solution hypertonique à 4 % de citrate trisodique ont récemment été décrits comme stratégie d'anticoagulation pendant les séances d'échange plasmatique par filtration (mTPE ­ membrane therapeutic plasma exchange). L'effet du citrate étant négligeable sur l'hémostase systémique du patient, l'anticoagulation régionale au citrate s'avère avantageuse dans les cas où les protocoles avec l'héparine sont jugés dangereux pour les patients dont le risque d'hémorragie est élevé. Les inconvénients liés aux solutions hypertoniques de citrate sont principalement l'hypocalcémie et l'hypernatrémie, lesquelles peuvent éventuellement entraîner des effets indésirables sur le plan clinique. PRÉSENTATION DES CAS: a) Une femme de race blanche âgée de 57 ans qui présentait des saignements vaginaux actifs en raison d'une hyperplasie de l'endomètre. La patiente avait des antécédents de syndrome antiphospholipide et de lupus érythémateux disséminé avec thrombopénie autoimmune réfractaire marquée. Sa numération plaquettaire demeurait invariablement inférieure à 4 000/mm3 malgré différents traitements immunosuppresseurs et la transfusion quotidienne de plaquettes. b) Une femme de race blanche âgée de 70 ans hospitalisée pour une insuffisance rénale aiguë de stade 3 due à une vascularite à évolution rapide associée aux anticorps cytoplasmiques antineutrophiles (ANCA). La patiente ne nécessitait aucun traitement de remplacement rénal. Son taux de créatinine sérique (SCr) à l'admission était de 3,56 mg/dL (plage normale : 0,53 à 1,00 mg/dL) alors que son taux initial, mesuré 6 mois plus tôt, était de 0,8 mg/dL. Une tomographie thoracique a révélé des masses bilatérales compatibles avec les lésions granulomateuses et l'absence de saignement alvéolaire. L'héparine a été écartée puisque les cas graves de vascularite associée aux ANCA avec atteinte des poumons peuvent évoluer vers une hémorragie alvéolaire. DIAGNOSTICS: a) Thrombocytopénie autoimmune associée à un lupus érythémateux disséminé; b) vascularite associée aux ANCA avec atteinte des reins et des poumons. INTERVENTIONS: Nous décrivons une série de cas impliquant deux patientes ayant subi 12 séances de mTPE consécutives avec un anticoagulant régional à 4 % de citrate trisodique. RÉSULTATS: Toutes les séances se sont déroulées sans incident, seuls des déséquilibres électrolytiques mineurs ont été observés. Toutes les séances ont été réalisées efficacement, sans interruption précoce due au blocage du filtre à plasma. ENSEIGNEMENTS TIRÉS: Dans deux cas qui présentaient un risque élevé d'hémorragie, l'anticoagulation régionale extracorporelle avec citrate, réalisée conformément aux protocoles établis pour les perfusions de citrate et de calcium, a permis d'optimiser la perméabilité du filtre à plasma sans causer d'événement hémorragique.

Removal of middle molecules with medium cutoff dialyzer in patients on short frequent hemodialysis.

INTRODUCTION: Medium cutoff (MCO) membranes for hemodialysis (HD) remove more effectively large middle molecules than high-flux (HF) membranes. In patients on in-center short frequent HD regimen (5 sessions per week, 2 hours and 30 minutes per session) the effect of MCO on middle weight uremic toxins has not been elucidated. METHODS: This retrospective study included 15 patients previously performing short frequent HD with HF dialyzer (HF-HD), that were switched to short frequent HD with MCO dialyzer (MCO-HD) for 2 months, and returned to HF-HD. The primary endpoint was the predialysis concentration of α1-acid glycoprotein during the different study phases. Secondary endpoints were predialysis concentration of other middle molecules, albumin, and assessment of the quality of life using the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36). FINDINGS: During MCO-HD phase there was a reduction in mean ± SD α1-acid glycoprotein concentration (98.71 ± 25.2 vs. 88.6 ± 24.6 mg/dL, P = 0.107), followed by an increment 2 months after returning to HF-HD (89.18 ± 26.12 vs. 97.33 ± 31.29 mg/dL, P = 0.002); however, only the second variation was statistically significant. MCO-HD provided lower median predialysis concentration of prolactin (16 [10.2-25.6] vs. 14.1 [11.7-34.8] ng/mL, P = 0.036). Single-pool Kt/V, standard Kt/V, predialysis ß2-microglobulin, myoglobin, and SF-36 questionnaire remained stable during the first two phases (pre-MCO and MCO). ß2-Microglobulin increased in the post-MCO phase (20.02 ± 8.14 vs. 21.27 ± 7.64 µg/mL, P = 0.000). Mean predialysis concentration of albumin reduced significantly from pre-MCO vs. MCO phases (39.9 ± 3.7 vs. 38.3 ± 3.3 g/L, P = 0.020) and rebounded significantly from MCO vs. post-MCO phases (38.7 ± 3.1 vs. 41.3 ± 3.0 g/L, P = 0.007). DISCUSSION: In this retrospective analysis, short frequent MCO-HD promotes a reduction in prolactin, a middle weight uremic toxin, and trends toward a reduction in α1-acid glycoprotein. No patients developed hypoalbuminemia. These findings are encouraging and deserve investigation in prospective studies.

BarcodingGO: A problem-based approach to teach concepts related to environmental-DNA and bioinformatics.

In this paper, we propose and describe a new approach, named BarcodingGO, to teach environmental DNA and bioinformatics concepts to undergraduate or graduate students in molecular biology-related fields. The learning pipeline proposed here aims to solve a simulated environmental monitoring problem, in which a biodiversity survey of a particular region is needed to assess the impact of an environmental disaster. Biological surveys, in the context of environmental DNA studies, are performed by analyzing the DNA released by organisms living in a specific environment. We proposed a scenario in which quick response (QR) codes represented a given environmental DNA, and they were positioned in a scattered pattern across two regions of the classroom (representing pre and post scenarios for a particular environmental disaster). The QR codes redirect to a page that contained a fictional representation of an animal or a plant. Students then survey the region's biodiversity using QR code scanning applications on their cell phones by "capturing" these organisms as an analogy to the Pokémon GO game of the international Pokémon franchise. We believe this method (or even an adaptation of it) can be an essential tool to engage students in molecular biology classes. Moreover, this approach can help to teach how modern genomics and bioinformatics tools can be applied to solve real problems in conservation biology.

Higher evolutionary rates in life-history traits in insular than in mainland palms.

Isolated islands, due to the reduced interspecific competition compared to mainland habitats, present ecological opportunities for colonizing lineages. As a consequence, island lineages may be expected to experience higher rates of trait evolution than mainland lineages. However, island effects on key life-history traits of vascular plants remain underexplored at broad spatiotemporal scales, even for emblematic island clades such as palms. Here, we used phylogenetic comparative methods to evaluate potential differences in size and macroevolutionary patterns of height and fruit diameter among mainland, continental, and volcanic island palms. Further, phylogenetic beta-diversity was used to determine if lineage turnover supported an adaptive radiation scenario on volcanic islands. Volcanic island palms were taller than their continental island and mainland counterparts, whereas continental island palms exhibited smaller fruit size. Height and fruit size of palms evolved under evolutionary constraints towards an optimal value. However, scenarios of adaptive radiation and niche conservatism were not supported for the height and fruit size of volcanic and mainland palm clades, respectively, as expected. Instead, continental island palms exhibited higher evolutionary rates for height and fruit size. Insular palm assemblages (continental and volcanic) are composed of unique lineages. Beyond representing evolutionary sources of new palm lineages, our results demonstrate that insular habitats are important in shaping palm trait diversity. Also, the higher phenotypic evolutionary rates of continental island palms suggest disparate selection pressures on this habitat type, which can be an important driver of trait diversification over time. Taken together, these results stress the importance of insular habitats for conservation of functional, phylogenetic, and taxonomic diversity of palms.

The New World species of Leucospis Fabricius, 1775 (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Leucospidae): an update of Boucek's revision with description of two new species from Brazil.

The revision of Leucospis Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Leucospidae) by Boucek (1974a) is updated for the New World species based on material deposited in Brazilian collections. We provide a key to the New World species including all species described after Boucek, describe two new Brazilian species, Leucospis copepucu sp. nov. and L. muru sp. nov. describe the male of Leucospis opalescens Weld, 1922, and provide diagnoses and illustrations for ten other Brazilian species and one Argentinian species and comments on new geographic records for Brazilian species, with maps.

Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Salmonella spp. e Yersinia enterocolitica isoladas de animais silvestres em um centro de reabilitação / Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Salmonella spp. and Yersinia enterocolitica isolated from wildlife animals of a reabilitation center

Muitas espécies de animais silvestres de vida livre servem como reservatório de bactérias patogênicas que ameaçam a saúde humana e dos animais domésticos. Algumas bactérias, como Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Yersinia enterocolitica e Salmonella enterica, causam enfermidades em humanos e podem contaminar os animais domésticos e silvestres. O Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre da Universidade Federal de Pelotas (NURFS-UFPel) soluciona uma demanda regional específica de atenção à fauna silvestre brasileira. O objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar a presença de Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Salmonella spp. e Yersinia enterocolitica em animais silvestres que se encontravam em processo de reabilitação. Foram coletadas amostras de fezes, com uso de zaragatoas estéreis, de 34 aves, 16 mamíferos e 23 répteis. Dos 73 animais amostrados, quatro (5,48%) albergavam Y. enterocolitica, sendo duas aves, um mamífero e um réptil. Salmonella e Campylobacter não foram isolados. Os perfis de bandas dos isolados de Y. enterocolitica analisados pela rep-PCR foram diferentes entre si. Esses resultados indicam que as cepas isoladas não estão relacionadas entre si, não possuindo uma origem comum recente. Vanellus chilensis, Turdus rufiventris, Didelphis albiventris e Pantherophis guttatus podem albergar Y. enterocolitica e eliminá-la nas fezes, oferecendo risco de disseminação desse micro-organismo no ambiente, além de constituírem possíveis fontes de contaminação para humanos e outros animais.(AU)

Wild animals can transmit pathogenic bacteria to human and domestic animal's health. Some bacteria, such as Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Yersinia enterocolitica and Salmonella enterica, cause diseases in humans and can contaminate domestic and wild animais. The Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre of Universidade Federal de Pelotas (Nurfs-UFPel) attend a specific regional demand of wildlife in Brazil. The aim of this paper was to identify the presence of these pathogenic bacteria in wild animals in rehabilitation. Stool samples were collected using sterile swabs from 34 birds, 16 mammals and 23 reptilian that were housed at Nurfs. Of the 73 collections, Y. enterocolitica was isolated from four (5.48%) of two birds, one mammal and one reptile. Salmonella and Campylobacter were not isolated. The molecular profile of bands of Y. enterocolitica identified in rep-PCR had differences. These results indicated that the isolates did not have a recent common origin. Pantherophis guttatus, Didelphis albiventris, Turdus rufiventris and Vanellus chilensis could shelt Y. enterocolitica and eliminate the bacteria in stool, offering risk of dissemination of these microorganisms in the environment with possible contamination of humans and other animals.(AU)

The uncommon Neotropical genus Pazius Navás, 1913 (Mecoptera: Bittacidae): a comprehensive synthesis, with description of a new Brazilian species.

After a gap of more than twenty years, only recently the uncommon Neotropical genus Pazius Navás, 1913 has been focus of scientific researches, with the description of two new species from Colombia. Here all the knowledge about the genus is synthetized, with an identification key to all species, including comprehensive illustrations of male's terminalia and the description of Pazius angaibara sp. nov. from Northern Brazil. Also, a geographic records map of the genus is included.

Campylobacter species isolated from poultry and humans, and their analysis using PFGE in southern Brazil.

Campylobacteriosis is a bacterial disease transmitted to humans through ingestion of contaminated food. Six hundred samples were collected, 200 from human stool samples, 200 from poultry products and 200 from poultry feces in Southern Brazil, and then inoculated on blood agar plates. A total of 58% of the poultry feces, 17% of the poultry meat, and 2% the of human stools tested positive for Campylobacter. Positive Campylobacter colonies were identified as Campylobacter jejuni or Campylobactercoli by multiplex PCR. Campylobacter isolates were analyzed using PFGE to compare different profiles according to the source. This study demonstrated that there are different Campylobacter clones distributed in different aviaries in Southern Brazil. In addition, PFGE molecular profiles suggested that broilers can be a source of contamination of poultry products. However, the human isolate studied did not show any relationship with other strains examined.

Propriedades antimicrobianas do kefir / Antimicrobial properties of kefir

Os leites fermentados têm sido amplamente consumidos desde a Antiguidade e, atualmente, comercializados em todo o mundo. Kefir é um leite fermentado, ácido, levemente alcoólico, produzido artesanalmente a partir da fermentação do leite pelos grãos de kefir, os quais contêm uma população estável de micro-organismos. O processo fermentativo gera uma série de compostos que conferem sabor e aroma característicos ao kefir, além de substâncias bioativas, responsáveis por propriedades nutracêuticas. A utilização de micro-organismos com propriedades antimicrobianas como conservantes naturais é uma alternativa que tem como vantagem a inibição do desenvolvimento de bactérias deteriorantes e patogênicas sem o uso de substâncias químicas indesejáveis. O interesse em tais espécies aumentou nos últimos anos, viabilizando o uso desses micro-organismos probióticos como conservantes e inibidores naturais em vários produtos de origem animal, como leites, carnes e derivados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar uma revisão da literatura sobre as propriedades antimicrobianas atribuídas ao kefir.(AU)

The fermented milks have been consumed since the antiquity, and currently it have been widely marketed and consumed around the world. Kefir is a fermented, acid, mildly alcoholic homemade milk produced from the fermentation of milk by kefir grains which contain a stable population of microorganisms. The fermentation process generates a series of compounds which impart flavor and aroma to kefir, and bioactive substances responsible for nutraceutic properties. The use of micro-organisms with antimicrobial properties as natural preservative is an alternative that has the advantage of inhibiting the development of pathogenic and spoilage bacteria without the use of undesirable chemicals. The interest in these species has increased in recent years, enabling the use of these probiotic micro-organisms as preservatives and natural inhibitors in several animal products such as milk, meat and their products. The aim of this paper is to present a review of literature on the antimicrobial properties attributed to kefir.(AU)

Correlation between the oropharyngo-laryngoscopic findings and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate anatomical and functional changes of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx to the severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 66 patients of both genders, aged between 21 and 59 years old with complaints of snoring and / or apnea. All underwent full clinical evaluation, including physical examination, nasolarybgoscopy and polisonography. We classified individuals into groups by the value of the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), calculated measures of association and analyzed differences by the Kruskal-Wallis and chi-square tests. RESULTS: all patients with obesity type 2 had OSAS. We found a relationship between the uvula projection during nasoendoscopy and OSAS (OR: 4.9; p-value: 0.008; CI: 1.25-22.9). In addition, there was a major strength of association between the circular shape of the pharynx and the presence of moderate or severe OSAS (OR: 9.4, p-value: 0.002), although the CI was wide (1.80-53.13). The septal deviation and lower turbinate hypertrophy were the most frequent nasal alterations, however unrelated to gravity. Nasal obstruction was four times more common in patients without daytime sleepiness. The other craniofacial anatomical changes were not predictors for the occurrence of OSAS. CONCLUSION: oral, pharyngeal and laryngeal disorders participate in the pathophysiology of OSAS. The completion of the endoscopic examination is of great value to the evaluation of these patients.

Correlation between the oropharyngo-laryngoscopic findings and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea / Correlação entre os achados orofaringolaringoscópicos e a gravidade da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono

Objective: To correlate anatomical and functional changes of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx to the severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Methods : We conducted a cross-sectional study of 66 patients of both genders, aged between 21 and 59 years old with complaints of snoring and / or apnea. All underwent full clinical evaluation, including physical examination, nasolarybgoscopy and polisonography. We classified individuals into groups by the value of the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), calculated measures of association and analyzed differences by the Kruskal-Wallis and chi-square tests. Results : all patients with obesity type 2 had OSAS. We found a relationship between the uvula projection during nasoendoscopy and OSAS (OR: 4.9; p-value: 0.008; CI: 1.25-22.9). In addition, there was a major strength of association between the circular shape of the pharynx and the presence of moderate or severe OSAS (OR: 9.4, p-value: 0.002), although the CI was wide (1.80-53.13). The septal deviation and lower turbinate hypertrophy were the most frequent nasal alterations, however unrelated to gravity. Nasal obstruction was four times more common in patients without daytime sleepiness. The other craniofacial anatomical changes were not predictors for the occurrence of OSAS. Conclusion : oral, pharyngeal and laryngeal disorders participate in the pathophysiology of OSAS. The completion of the endoscopic examination is of great value to the evaluation of these patients.

Objetivo: correlacionar alterações anatômicas e funcionais de cavidade oral, faringe e laringe com a gravidade da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS). Métodos: estudo transversal com 66 pacientes de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 21 e 59 anos e queixas de roncos e/ou apneia. Todos passaram por avaliação clínica otorrinolaringológica completa incluindo exame físico, nasolaringofibroscopia epolissonografia noturna. Foram classificados em grupos pelo valor do índice de apneia-hipopneia (IAH), calculadas medidas de associação e analisadas diferenças pelo teste Kruskal-Wallis e do c2. Resultados: todos os pacientes com obesidade tipo 2 avaliados eram portadores de SAOS. Foi observada relação entre a projeção de úvula durante o exame fibronasoendoscopico e a SAOS (OR:4,9; p-valor: 0.008; IC: 1.25-22.9). Além disso, notou-se uma importante força de associação entre o formato circular da faringe e a presença de SAOS moderado ou grave (OR: 9,4, p-valor: 0,002), embora o IC seja amplo (1.80-53.13).O desvio septal e a hipertrofia de concha inferior foram as alterações nasais mais frequentes, porém sem relação com a gravidade. A obstrução nasal foi quatro vezes mais comum nos pacientes sem sonolência diurna. As demais alterações anatômicas craniofaciais não se mostraram preditoras para a ocorrência de SAOS. Conclusão: concluímos que alterações orais, faríngeas e laríngeas participam da fisiopatologia da SAOS. A realização do exame endoscópico é de grande valia para a avaliação destes pacientes.

Utilização de micro-organismos isolados de kefir como cultura padrão para detecção de inibidores no leite / Use of micro-organisms isolated from kefir culture as standard for the detection of inhibitors in milk / Utilización de microorganismos aislados de kéfir como cultura estándar para detección de inhibidores en la leche

Resíduos de inibidores em leite são um problema para saúde pública e sua detecção é muito importante. Bactérias lácticas podem ser utilizadas como cultura teste no método de Disco de Filtro substituindo o Geobacillus stearothermophilus. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o potencial de bactérias lácticas isoladas de grãos de kefir para utilização como cultura padrão no Teste do Disco do Filtro para detecção de inibidores no leite. Foram testadas 20 bactérias láticas quanto à sensibilidade a 16 diferentes antibióticos por meio da técnica de difusão de disco. A bactéria com sensibilidade ao maior número de antimicrobianos foi testada frente a diferentes concentrações dos antibióticos, e determinado seu limite de detecção, o qual foi comparado com a cepa padrão da técnica. A cepa teste LIPOA 5079 foi a única que apresentou sensibilidade igual ou maior que a cepa padrão na técnica de difusão de disco e foi utilizada como cultura teste na técnica de detecção de inibidores. A cepa teste pode ser utilizada como cultura padrão para Teste do Disco do Filtro para detecção de resíduos dos antimicrobianos ampicilina, azitromicina, cefalexina, ciprofloxacino, doxicilina, enrofloxacina, eritromicina, gentamicina e neomicina no leite.

Antibiotic residues in milk is a public health problem and its detection is very important. Lactic acid bacteria can be used as a test culture in the disk diffusion method instead of Geobacillus stearothermophilus. The aim of this study was to analyze the potential of lactic acid bacteria isolated from kefir grains to use as a standard culture in the disk diffusion method for inhibitors detection in milk. The sensitivity of twenty lactic acid bacteria was tested to 16 different antibiotics by disk diffusion technique. The bacteria that showed sensitivity to the largest number of antibiotics was tested with different concentrations of it, and determined its detection limit, which was compared with the standard strain of the technique. The test strain LIPOA 5079 was the only one that showed the same or greater sensitivity compared to the standard strain in the disk diffusion assay and it was used as the test culture for the inhibitors detection technique. The strain test can be used as a standard culture for the disk diffusion test for detecting residues of antibiotics like ampicillin, azithromycin, cephalexin, ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, enrofloxacin, erythromycin, gentamicin and neomycin in milk.

Residuos de inhibidores en la leche es un problema para la salud pública y su detección es muy importante. Bacterias lácticas pueden ser utilizadas como cultivo prueba en el método de Disco de Filtro, sustituyendo el Geobacillus stearothermophilus. El objetivo de este estudio ha sido analizar el potencial de bacterias lácticas aisladas de granos de kéfir, como cultura estándar en la Prueba de Disco, para detección de inhibidores en la leche. Se han testado 20 bacterias lácticas, cuanto a la sensibilidad a 16 antibióticos diferentes, a través de la técnica de difusión de disco. La bacteria con sensibilidad al mayor número de antimicrobianos ha sido probada ante a diferentes concentraciones de antibióticos, y determinado su límite de detección, que se comparó con la cepa estándar de la técnica. La cepa de ensayo LIPOA 5079 fue la única que presentó sensibilidad igual o mayor que la cepa estándar en el método de difusión en disco y se ha utilizado como cultivo prueba en la técnica de detección de inhibidores. La cepa prueba puede ser utilizada como cultura estándar en Prueba del Disco de Filtro para detección de residuos de los antimicrobianos ampicilina, azitromicina, cefalexina, ciprofloxacina, doxicilina, enrofloxacina, eritromicina, gentamicina y neomicina en la leche.

Primeiro relato de Salmonella enterica e Campylobacter spp. isolados de Garibaldi (Chrysomus ruficapillus) e Canário-da-terra (Sicalis flaveola) silvestres / First report on the Salmonella enterica and Campylobacter spp. isolation from wild birds Garibaldi (Chrysomus ruficapillus) and Canário-da-terra (Sicalis flaveola)

Algumas espécies de aves silvestres têm sido identificadas como reservatórios de Campylobacter e Salmonella, as quais atuam como propagadoras desses micro-organismos; entretanto, não há estudo sobre o papel das aves silvestres na transmissão desses agentes patogênicos no Brasil. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi de verificar a presença desses agentes patogênicos em aves silvestres que se alimentam em lavouras orizícolas. Vinte e três Garibaldis (Chrysomus ruficapillus), uma Rolinha-picuí (Columbinapicui) e um Canário-da-terra (Sicalis flaveola) foram capturados com redes de neblina. As amostras de fezes das aves foram coletadas com o uso de zaragatoas e foram processadas para efetuar pesquisa de Campylobacter spp. e Salmonella enterica. Oito (32%) amostras de fezes de C. ruficapillus foram positivas para Campylobacter e seis (24%) foram positivas para Salmonella enterica. Cinco (20%) amostras coletadas de C. ruficapillus e uma de S. flaveola foram positivas para Salmonella. C. ruficapillus e S. flaveola mostraram ser reservatórios de Campylobacter e Salmonella e, consequentemente, podem atuar como potenciais disseminadores destes patógenos. Este é o primeiro registro de isolamento de Campylobacter e Salmonella de amostras de fezes de C. ruficapillus e S. flaveola silvestres...

Survival of pathogenic microorganisms in kefir

Kefir is a homemade fermented milk produced by adding kefir grains. The domestic handling and the use of raw materials from different standards and sources, and the lack of inspection by qualified professionals, all this classify kefir as a food which might represent potential risks to human health. This study aimed at evaluating the pathogens survival during the kefir fermentation process. Kefir grains were added into portions of UHT skimmed milk which were experimentally contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium and Enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. Analyses of the microorganism isolation in these milk samples were carried out at 0, 6, 12, 48 and 72 hours of fermentation process. Salmonella Typhimurium and Enteritidis survived for a 24-hour periodin fermenting kefir. Escherichia coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes were recovered in less than 72 hours after the fermentation process was initiated. Under the conditions and the microorganisms concentrations established in the present study, the analyzed pathogenic bacteria survived for a period longer than those used for homemade kefir fermentation, and this one might be apotential hazard for human consumption.

Micro-organismos patogênicos e deteriorantes em chocolate artesanal ao leite / Pathogenic and deteriorative microorganisms in homemade milk chocolate

O trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a qualidade microbiológica do chocolate artesanal ao leite produzido e comercializado na região sul do estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram pesquisadas a presença de Salmonella e as contagens de mesófilos aeróbicos, coliformes totais, coliformes termotolerantes, bolores e leveduras, Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e clostrídios sulfito-redutores em 40 amostras de chocolate artesanal ao leite obtidas em estabelecimentos comerciais da região de estudo. Treze (32,5%)amostras mostraram ser impróprias para o consumo humano. Dessas, 11 (27,5%) apresentaram contagens de bolores e leveduras acima dos limites estabelecidos, das quais 7 (17,5%) demonstraram apenas esse parâmetro fora dos padrões. O segundo parâmetro microbiológico mais frequente foi a contagem de coliformes totais, e em 5 amostras (12,5%) foram detectados valores acima dos aceitáveis. Apenas 1 amostra apresentou contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva acima dos limites permitidos. Salmonella e clostrídios sulfito redutores não foram isolados das amostras analisadas. Esses resultados são indicativos de problemas de ordem higiênica, provavelmente relacionados a práticas inadequadas de fabricação ou ao não cumprimento de boas práticas de fabricação.

Complicações neonatais do diabetes mellitus gestacional ­ DMG / Neonatal complications of gestacional diabetes mellitus ­ GDM

O diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG) está associado a um risco aumentado de complicações fetais, neonatais e no desenvolvimento a longo prazo. As taxas de aborto espontâneo, natimorto, mal formações congênitas e morbidade e mortalidade perinatal são maiores em filhos de mães diabéticas. As principais complicações neonatais são: macrossomia, hipoglicemia neonatal, deficiência de ferro, alterações da função cardiorrespiratória, hiperbilirrubinemia, anormalidades neurológicas, hipocalcemia, hipomagnesemia e policitemia. A macrossomia predispõe a lesões do parto, especialmente distócia de ombro, maior risco de lesão do plexo braquial, fraturas de clavícula ou do úmero, asfixia perinatal, e, menos frequentemente, hemorragia subdural e paralisia facial. O controle glicêmico rigoroso pré-concepção e durante a gestação associa-se com menor morbimortalidade perinatal. Assim, o controle do DMG representa tarefa de fundamental importância para impedir sequelas em neonatais. (AU)

The gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of fetal, neonatal, and possibly long-term complications. The rates of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, congenital malformations, and perinatal morbidity and mortality are higher in infants of a diabetic mother than in pregnancies with normal glycemic control. The main neonatal complications are: macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, iron deficiency, changes in cardiac and respiratory function, hyperbilirubinemia, neurological abnormalities, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia and polycythemia. Macrosomia predisposes to birth injury, especially shoulder dystocia, increased risk of brachial plexus injury, clavicular or humeral fractures, perinatal asphyxia, and, less often, subdural hemorrhage and facial palsy. Strict glycemic control preconception and during pregnancy is associated with lower perinatal morbidity and mortality. Thus, GDM control is of paramount importance to prevent neonatal harm. (AU)

Mycological analysis of ambrosia and creamy dulce de leche / Análise micológica de ambrosia e doce de leite pastoso

Creamy dulce de leche is a product made from concentrated milk by heating, and adding sucrose. Ambrosia is a variety of dulce de leche prepared by adding eggs and sugar in to milk. Aiming at identifying the genera of filamentous fungi isolated from creamy dulce de leche and ambrosia, 40 ambrosia and 20 creamy dulce deleche samples were analyzed in the present study. Filamentous fungi and yeast counts and the identification of genera of the isolated filamentous fungi were performed. Thirty-nine samples (65 per cent) showed filamentous fungi and yeast counts that exceeded the accep table limits. Six fungus genera were identified, and amongthem the Penicillium was the most frequent. These findings are a warning of the requirement for strict control on good manufacturing practices as well as on the inspection and monitoring of ambrosia andcreamy dulce de leche trading.