Bronchoesophageal fistula in sheep: case report / Fístula broncoesofágica em ovino: relato de caso

The term bronchoesophageal fistula is used for the abnormal communication between the esophageal lumen and the pulmonary bronchi. There are no reports of this condition in production animals, and its origin is unknown. A male Dorper sheep from the Veterinary Hospital of the Santo Amaro University, SP, Brazil, presented clinical signs of tachypnea, apathy, and coughing after eating. The animal died suddenly after a fever break. During the gross evaluation, a fistula was noticed in the middle third of the thoracic esophagus with communication to the right cranial lung lobe, forming an encapsulated area measuring 24.5 cm x 22.0 cm x 9.4 cm. Fibrous tissue delimited the pulmonary lobe and feed filled the compartment. This is a rare condition with unclear etiopathogenesis.(AU)

O termo fístula broncoesofágica denomina a comunicação anormal entre o lúmen esofágico e os brônquios pulmonares. Não há relatos dessa condição em animais de produção, e sua origem é desconhecida. Um ovino macho da raça Dorper, proveniente do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Santo Amaro, SP, Brasil, apresentou sinais clínicos de taquipneia, apatia e tosse após a alimentação. O animal morreu repentinamente após quadro febril. Na avaliação macroscópica notou-se fístula no terço médio do esôfago torácico com comunicação para o lobo pulmonar cranial direito, formando uma área encapsulada medindo24,5 cm x 22,0 cm x 9,4 cm. Tecido fibroso delimitava o lobo pulmonar e conteúdo alimentar preenchia o compartimento. Esta é uma condição rara com etiopatogenia incerta.(AU)

The two faces of titanium dioxide nanoparticles bio-camouflage in 3D bone spheroids.

Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are widely used in dental implants and hip-prostheses due to their excellent biocompatibility. Growing evidence support that surface degradation due to corrosion and wear processes, contribute to implant failure, since the release of metallic ions and wear particles generate local tissue reactions (peri-implant inflammatory reactions). The generated ions and wear debris (particles at the micron and nanoscale) stay, in a first moment, at the interface implant-bone. However, depending on their size, they can enter blood circulation possibly contributing to systemic reactions and toxicities. Most of the nanotoxicological studies with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) use conventional two-dimensional cell culture monolayers to explore macrophage and monocyte activation, where limited information regarding bone cells is available. Recently three-dimensional models have been gaining prominence since they present a greater anatomical and physiological relevance. Taking this into consideration, in this work we developed a human osteoblast-like spheroid model, which closely mimics bone cell-cell interactions, providing a more realistic scenario for nanotoxicological studies. The treatment of spheroids with different concentrations of TiO2 NPs during 72 h did not change their viability significantly. Though, higher concentrations of TiO2 NPs influenced osteoblast cell cycle without interfering in their ability to differentiate and mineralize. For higher concentration of TiO2 NPs, collagen deposition and pro-inflammatory cytokine, chemokine and growth factor secretion (involved in osteolysis and bone homeostasis) increased. These results raise the possible use of this model in nanotoxicological studies of osseointegrated devices and demonstrate a possible therapeutic potential of this TiO2 NPs to prevent or reverse bone resorption.

Trojan-Like Internalization of Anatase Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles by Human Osteoblast Cells.

Dentistry and orthopedics are undergoing a revolution in order to provide more reliable, comfortable and long-lasting implants to patients. Titanium (Ti) and titanium alloys have been used in dental implants and total hip arthroplasty due to their excellent biocompatibility. However, Ti-based implants in human body suffer surface degradation (corrosion and wear) resulting in the release of metallic ions and solid wear debris (mainly titanium dioxide) leading to peri-implant inflammatory reactions. Unfortunately, our current understanding of the biological interactions with titanium dioxide nanoparticles is still very limited. Taking this into consideration, this study focuses on the internalization of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on primary bone cells, exploring the events occurring at the nano-bio interface. For the first time, we report the selective binding of calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P) and proteins from cell culture medium to anatase nanoparticles that are extremely important for nanoparticle internalization and bone cells survival. In the intricate biological environment, anatase nanoparticles form bio-complexes (mixture of proteins and ions) which act as a kind of 'Trojan-horse' internalization by cells. Furthermore, anatase nanoparticles-induced modifications on cell behavior (viability and internalization) could be understand in detail. The results presented in this report can inspire new strategies for the use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in several regeneration therapies.

Estudo preliminar toxicológico, antibacteriano e fitoquímico do extrato etanólico das folhas de Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. (pinhão-bravo, Euphorbiaceae), coletada no Município de Tauá, Ceará, Nordeste Brasileiro / Toxicological, antibacterial, and phytochemical preliminary study of the ethanolic extract of Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill (pinhão-bravo, Euphorbiaceae) leaves, collected in Tauá, Ceará, Northeastern Brazil

RESUMO A cada dia, cepas bacterianas estão tornando-se resistentes a diversos antibióticos, o que faz necessária a busca de novas substâncias eficazes para o tratamento de doenças. Desta forma, este trabalho reporta o estudo preliminar toxicológico, antibacteriano e fitoquímico do extrato etanólico das folhas de Jatropha mollissima (pinhão-bravo, Euphorbiaceae), coletada no Município de Tauá, Ceará, Nordeste Brasileiro. Inicialmente, realizou-se o teste de toxicidade do extrato contra Artemia salina. Na sequencia, foi realizado o ensaio antibacteriano contra quatro cepas bacterianas Gram-negativas (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Hafnia alvei ATCC 51873, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883) e uma cepa Gram-positiva (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212). Finalmente, fez-se a análise fitoquímica preliminar do extrato ativo para detecção das principais classes de metabólitos especiais. Como resultado, o extrato etanólico das folhas de J. mollissima se mostrou tóxico para Artemia salina, pois apresentou CL50 igual a 406,02 μg/mL. Quanto à ação antibacteriana, o extrato se mostrou ativo contra a bactéria Gram-positiva Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, apresentando moderada atividade antibacteriana (halo de inibição igual a 7,03 mm). Evidenciou-se no extrato bioativo a presença de cumarinas, fenóis, taninos, flavonoides (flavonóis e flavanonas), alcaloides e esteroides, ambas as classes reportadas como antimicrobianos. Portanto, esse extrato tem potencial para ser usado na produção de fármacos contra infecções causadas por bactérias Gram-positivas. No entanto, as informações direcionam estudos futuros para o isolamento e identificação dos compostos bioativos, monitorados sob a ação antibacteriana mais expressiva.

ABSTRACT Each day, bacterial strains are becoming more resistant to various antibiotics, which requires the search for new effective substances for the treatment of diseases. Thus, this study reports the toxicological, antibacterial, and phytochemical preliminary study of the ethanolic extracts of Jatropha mollissima (pinhão-bravo, Euphorbiaceae) leaves, collected in Tauá, Ceará, Northeast of Brazil. Initially, we performed the toxicity testing of the extract against Artemia salina. Then, we conducted the antibacterial assay against four Gram-negative bacterial strains (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Hafnia alvei ATCC 51873, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883), and one Gram-positive strain (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212). Finally, we carried out the preliminary phytochemical analysis of the active extract to detect the main classes of special metabolites. As a result, the ethanolic extract of J. mollissima leaves was toxic to Artemia salina, because it presented LC50 equal to 406.02 µg/mL. Regarding antibacterial action, the extract was active against the Gram-positive bacteria Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, with moderate antibacterial activity (inhibition zone equal to 7.03 mm). The bioactive extract had the presence of coumarins, phenols, tannins, flavonoids (flavanols and flavonones), alkaloids and steroids, both classes reported as antimicrobials. Therefore, this extract has the potential to be used in the production of drugs against infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria. However, these information require further studies for the isolation and identification of bioactive compounds, monitored under the more expressive antibacterial action.

First cytogenetic study of Cavernicola pilosa Barber, 1937 (Hemiptera, Triatominae).

Cavernicola pilosa is a triatomine species that lives in caves and feeds on bat blood. This vector has a wide geographical distribution, and is found in Brazil, Colombia, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. Little is known about the reproductive biology of this species, because most previous studies have only characterized its morphology, morphometry, ecology, and epidemiology. Therefore, this study aimed to obtain preliminary data related to spermatogenesis in C. pilosa by conducting cytogenetic analysis. Analysis of the heterochromatic pattern of C. pilosa during the initial prophases revealed that heterochromatic blocks are only present in the sex chromosomes. Based on the analyses of the meiotic metaphase and prophases, we found that the sex determination system of C. pilosa is XY and the chromosomes are holocentric. C. pilosa spermatids are filamentous and have long flagella. It was not possible to detect corpuscle or filament heteropycnosis in spermatids of this species. The initial cytogenetic data presented in this study are important in characterizing the spermatogenesis and heterochromatic patterns of C. pilosa. Our results suggest that adaptation to troglodytism did not result in differences in spermatogenesis in this vector.

Diurnal behavior of dairy cows on alfalfa pastures supplemented with corn silage and concentrate / Comportamento diurno de vacas leiteiras em pastagem de alfafa suplementada com silagem de milho e concentrado

The diurnal ingestive behavior of dairy cows on alfalfa pastures supplemented with corn silage and concentrate was evaluated. Sixteen Holstein dairy cows in mid-lactation were used in a randomized block design. The treatments were partial replacement of corn silage for limited alfalfa grazing time (LGT) or unlimited grazing time (UGT). Rotational alfalfa grazing was used and the amount of concentrate fed was the same in both treatments. Behavioral activities observed were time spent grazing, rumination and idleness, during four days, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. From 2:00 to 5:00 PM grazing was intermittent and short-lasting on UGT, whereas on LGT grazing activity was longer than UGT in the morning and at the end of the afternoon. Restriction in available grazing time clearly influenced the distribution of time spent with grazing, rumination and idleness throughout the day. However, this effect was not observed in the total time spent in these activities...

Avaliou-se o comportamento ingestivo de vacas leiteiras com acesso restrito ou irrestrito a uma pastagem de alfafa suplementada com silagem de milho e concentrado. Utilizaram-se 16 vacas da raça Holandesa, em estádio médio de lactação, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Os tratamentos foram: silagem de milho substituída parcialmente por pastejo restrito ou irrestrito de alfafa. As vacas foram manejadas em sistema de pastejo rotacionado e a quantidade de concentrado foi igual em ambos os tratamentos. As atividades comportamentais observadas foram pastejo, ruminação e ócio, das oito às 19 horas, em quatro ocasiões. No pastejo irrestrito, observou-se que, nos horários entre 14 e 17 horas, o pastejo foi intermitente e de curta duração, enquanto no pastejo restrito a atividade de pastejo foi mais prolongada durante a manhã e no final da tarde. A restrição no tempo disponível para pastejo da alfafa influenciou marcadamente a distribuição, no decorrer do dia, do tempo gasto em pastejo, da ruminação e do ócio. Entretanto, não se observou este efeito no tempo total gasto nestas atividades...

Diurnal behavior of dairy cows on alfalfa pastures supplemented with corn silage and concentrate / Comportamento diurno de vacas leiteiras em pastagem de alfafa suplementada com silagem de milho e concentrado

The diurnal ingestive behavior of dairy cows on alfalfa pastures supplemented with corn silage and concentrate was evaluated. Sixteen Holstein dairy cows in mid-lactation were used in a randomized block design. The treatments were partial replacement of corn silage for limited alfalfa grazing time (LGT) or unlimited grazing time (UGT). Rotational alfalfa grazing was used and the amount of concentrate fed was the same in both treatments. Behavioral activities observed were time spent grazing, rumination and idleness, during four days, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. From 2:00 to 5:00 PM grazing was intermittent and short-lasting on UGT, whereas on LGT grazing activity was longer than UGT in the morning and at the end of the afternoon. Restriction in available grazing time clearly influenced the distribution of time spent with grazing, rumination and idleness throughout the day. However, this effect was not observed in the total time spent in these activities.(AU)

Avaliou-se o comportamento ingestivo de vacas leiteiras com acesso restrito ou irrestrito a uma pastagem de alfafa suplementada com silagem de milho e concentrado. Utilizaram-se 16 vacas da raça Holandesa, em estádio médio de lactação, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Os tratamentos foram: silagem de milho substituída parcialmente por pastejo restrito ou irrestrito de alfafa. As vacas foram manejadas em sistema de pastejo rotacionado e a quantidade de concentrado foi igual em ambos os tratamentos. As atividades comportamentais observadas foram pastejo, ruminação e ócio, das oito às 19 horas, em quatro ocasiões. No pastejo irrestrito, observou-se que, nos horários entre 14 e 17 horas, o pastejo foi intermitente e de curta duração, enquanto no pastejo restrito a atividade de pastejo foi mais prolongada durante a manhã e no final da tarde. A restrição no tempo disponível para pastejo da alfafa influenciou marcadamente a distribuição, no decorrer do dia, do tempo gasto em pastejo, da ruminação e do ócio. Entretanto, não se observou este efeito no tempo total gasto nestas atividades.(AU)

Resistance of cattle of various genetic groups to the tick Rhipicephalus microplus and the relationship with coat traits.

This study evaluated the resistance of cattle of different genetic groups to the tick Rhipicephalus microplus and the relationship with traits of the animals' hair and coat. Cows of the Senepol×Nelore (SN), Angus×Nelore (AN) and Nelore (NX) genetic groups were submitted to four consecutive artificial infestations, at 14-day intervals, each one with approximately 20,000 tick larvae placed on the animals' lumbar region. From the 19th to 23rd day of each infestation five counts of the number of ticks were performed on each animal's left body side. The tick count data (TTC) were transformed into log(10) (n+1), and also into percentage of return (PR), where n is the total number of ticks counted at each infestation. Hair samples were collected 24h after the last infestation with flat-nosed pliers. Measures of the average hair length (HL), coat thickness (CT), number of hairs per cm(2) (NHCM2) and weight of the samples (SW) were obtained. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated within genetic group to measure association between PR and the hair and coat data. There was a significant difference among genetic groups for the number of ticks, with the AN group having higher counts than the SN and NX groups. For the hair and coat traits, the NX and SN groups had lower values of HL and SW than did the AN group. The SN genetic group had lower NHCM2 counts than the NX and AN groups. There were positive correlations between TTC and CT (P<0.05) and SW (P<0.05) in the SN group. No significant correlation was found for the AN genetic group (P>0.05).

Ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em pescado no nordeste, Brasil / Occurrence of Salmonella spp. and coagulse positive Staphylococcus in fish and crustaceans in the northeast of Brazil

O presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de verificar a ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em pescados e crustáceos provenientes da região nordeste no período de fevereiro de 2004 a dezembro de 2005. Das 143 amostras de peixes e crustáceos (camarão congelado e cauda de lagosta), 5 (3,5%) apresentaram-se positivas para Salmonella spp. Enquanto nas amostras de peixe e cauda de lagosta a contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva foi < 1,0 x 102UFC/g estimado, nas amostras de camarão congelado, em duas a contagem foi 1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado e em uma 2,6 x 101UFC/g estimado, as demais <1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado. Com base nos resultados obtidos conclui-se que as amostras analisadas apresentaram baixos níveis de ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e que, mesmo com estes baixos índices, constantemente deve-se buscar uma melhora na qualidade dos produtos da pesca, melhora esta que passa pelo treinamento constante em boas práticas de fabricação, procedimentos padrões de higienização e análise de perigos e pontos críticos de controle do pessoal que trabalha na pesca ou em fazendas de criação de camarão, bem como dos funcionários das indústrias.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus in fish and crustaceans from the Brazilian Northeast. Five out of the 143 samples (3.5%) were positive for Salmonella spp. While none of the fish and lobster tail samples were positive for coagulase positive Staphylococcus, two shrimp samples presented an estimated count of 1.0 x 101colony forming units per gram (cfu/g), and one presented 2.6 x 101 cfu/g. The results showed a low level of Salmonella and coagulase positive Staphylococcus occurrence. However, even with these low levels of bacterial numbers in fish and crustaceans we should search look for an improvement in their quality. This improvement should be associated to constant training for good manufacturing practice, a standard procedure of hygiene and analysis of hazards and critical control points related to employees that work as fishers or on shrimp farms, as well as those working in the industry as a whole.

OCORRÊNCIA DE SALMONELLA SPP. E STAPHYLOCOCCUS COAGULASE POSITIVA EM PESCADO NO NORDESTE, BRASIL

ABSTRACT The present study was carried out to evaluate the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus in fish and crustaceans from the Brazilian Northeast. Five out of the 143 samples (3.5%) were positive for Salmonella spp. While none of the fish and lobster tail samples were positive for coagulase positive Staphylococcus, two shrimp samples presented an estimated count of 1.0 x 101colony forming units per gram (cfu/g), and one presented 2.6 x 101 cfu/g. The results showed a low level of Salmonella and coagulase positive Staphylococcus occurrence. However, even with these low levels of bacterial numbers in fish and crustaceans we should search look for an improvement in their quality. This improvement should be associated to constant training for good manufacturing practice, a standard procedure of hygiene and analysis of hazards and critical control points related to employees that work as fishers or on shrimp farms, as well as those working in the industry as a whole.

RESUMO O presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de verificar a ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em pescados e crustáceos provenientes da região nordeste no período de fevereiro de 2004 a dezembro de 2005. Das 143 amostras de peixes e crustáceos (camarão congelado e cauda de lagosta), 5 (3,5%) apresentaram-se positivas para Salmonella spp. Enquanto nas amostras de peixe e cauda de lagosta a contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva foi 1,0 x 102UFC/g estimado, nas amostras de camarão congelado, em duas a contagem foi 1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado e em uma 2,6 x 101UFC/g estimado, as demais 1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado. Com base nos resultados obtidos conclui-se que as amostras analisadas apresentaram baixos níveis de ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e que, mesmo com estes baixos índices, constantemente deve-se buscar uma melhora na qualidade dos produtos da pesca, melhora esta que passa pelo treinamento constante em boas práticas de fabricação, procedimentos padrões de higienização e análise de perigos e pontos críticos de controle do pessoal que trabalha na pesca ou em fazendas de criação de camarão, bem como dos funcionários das indústrias.

Resistência antimicrobiana em Salmonella Enteritidis isoladas de amostras clínicas e ambientais de frangos de corte e matrizes pesadas / Antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella Enteritidis isolated from clinical and environmental broiler chickens and breeders broiler

The antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella Enteritidis strains isolated from clinical and environmental poultry samples in the Southern Brazil during the years of 1999, 2000 and 2001 was evaluated. Among the 79 isolated samples, 64 (81 percent) were resistant to at least one of the antimicrobial agents tested, showing 22 different resistance patterns. Tetracycline showed the highest percentage (64,5 percent) of resistance among the antimicrobial agents used. Resistance to drugs at different levels was found as the following: ampicillin (1.2 percent), kanamycin (1.2 percent), ciprofloxacin (2.5 percent), enrofloxacin (8.8 percent), gentamicin (21.5 percent), streptomycin (20.2 percent), nitrofurantoin (26.6 percent), and nalidixic acid (30.4 percent). None of the S. Enteritidis strains were resistant to chloramphenicol, norfloxacin, and polimycin B. Among the 64 S. Enteritidis strains that showed resistance, 43 (67.2 percent) were resistant to two or more antimicrobial agents. Twenty-one (32.8 percent) strains were resistant to only one of the antimicrobial agents, 14 to tetracycline, three to nalidixic acid, three to nitrofurantoin, and one to gentamycin. These antimicrobial resistance levels suggest a high occurrence of tetracycline resistant S. Enteritidis strains and resistance to two or more antimicrobial agents.

Resistência antimicrobiana em Salmonella Enteritidis isoladas de amostras clínicas e ambientais de frangos de corte e matrizes pesadas / Antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella Enteritidis isolated from clinical and environmental broiler chickens and breeders broiler

The antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella Enteritidis strains isolated from clinical and environmental poultry samples in the Southern Brazil during the years of 1999, 2000 and 2001 was evaluated. Among the 79 isolated samples, 64 (81 percent) were resistant to at least one of the antimicrobial agents tested, showing 22 different resistance patterns. Tetracycline showed the highest percentage (64,5 percent) of resistance among the antimicrobial agents used. Resistance to drugs at different levels was found as the following: ampicillin (1.2 percent), kanamycin (1.2 percent), ciprofloxacin (2.5 percent), enrofloxacin (8.8 percent), gentamicin (21.5 percent), streptomycin (20.2 percent), nitrofurantoin (26.6 percent), and nalidixic acid (30.4 percent). None of the S. Enteritidis strains were resistant to chloramphenicol, norfloxacin, and polimycin B. Among the 64 S. Enteritidis strains that showed resistance, 43 (67.2 percent) were resistant to two or more antimicrobial agents. Twenty-one (32.8 percent) strains were resistant to only one of the antimicrobial agents, 14 to tetracycline, three to nalidixic acid, three to nitrofurantoin, and one to gentamycin. These antimicrobial resistance levels suggest a high occurrence of tetracycline resistant S. Enteritidis strains and resistance to two or more antimicrobial agents.(AU)

Association between the presence of anti-HLA antibodies with acute rejection and chronic allograft nephropathy in the first year after kidney transplantation.

The clinical relevance of anti-HLA antibodies following kidney transplantation has been a recent focus of research. Patients who present anti-HLA antibodies in the posttransplantation period have shown higher incidences of acute rejection episodes (ARE) and chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of anti-HLA antibodies during the first year after kidney transplantation and their association with the occurrence of ARE and CAN. Eighty-eight kidney transplant recipients were evaluated for the presence of IgG anti-HLA antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (LAT-M and LAT-1240, One Lambda Inc, Calif, United States). Protocol kidney biopsies were performed in consenting patients. ARE and CAN were diagnosed by clinical, laboratory, and histopathological criteria. Anti-HLA antibodies were observed in 20 (22.7%) patients. At 1 year follow-up, 26.1% presented ARE and 51.2% developed CAN. Nine patients (45%) with antibodies developed ARE as opposed to 20.6% without antibodies and 64.7% developed CAN as opposed to 47.8% of those without antibodies. In the histological analysis, the anti-HLA antibodies were associated with Banff IIA ARE (P = .001) and Banff grade II CAN (P = .012). Routine posttransplantation search for antibodies may identify cases at higher risk for acute and chronic rejection, and perhaps help to tailor the immunosuppressive regimen.

Non-invasive diagnosis of acute rejection in kidney transplants with delayed graft function.

Delayed graft function (DGF) often occurs in kidney transplants from deceased donors. We wanted to provide studies giving more accurate non-invasive tests for acute rejection (AR). Using real-time PCR, we examined the expression of cytolytic molecules such as perforin, granzyme B, and fas-ligand along with serpin proteinase inhibitor-9. We also measured the expression of FOXP3, a characteristic gene of T-regulatory cells known to be involved in AR. These studies were conducted on peripheral blood monocytes, urinary cells, and 48 surveillance kidney biopsies taken from a total of 35 patients with DGF. Of these patients, 20 had a histopathological diagnosis of AR, whereas other 28 had characteristics of acute tubular necrosis (ATN). Expression of cytolytic and apoptotic-associated genes in the biopsy tissue, peripheral blood leukocytes, and urinary cells was significantly higher in patients with AR than that in patients with ATN. Diagnostic parameters associated with FOXP3 gene expression were most accurate in peripheral blood leukocytes and urine cells with sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy between 94 and 100%. Our study shows that quantification of selected genes in peripheral blood leukocytes and urinary cells from renal transplant patients with DGF may provide a useful and accurate non-invasive diagnosis of AR.

Rapd/pcr and phage typing of salmonella enteritidis isolated from poultry and food poisoning outbreaks

ABSTRACT Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is an important pathogen, causing both food poisoning outbreaks in humans and economic losses to the poultry industry, being also widely spread in the environment. This work aimed to identify SE phage types and to standardize the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) for evaluating SE isolates obtained from different origins. To do so, 238 SE strains were selected, of which 104 were isolated from broiler carcasses, 106 from food samples and human biological materials involved in food poisoning outbreaks and 28 from different poultry materials. Among these 238 SE isolates, 111 were phage typed, and 57.7% (64/ 111) corresponded to phage type (PT) 4, 32.4% (36/111) to PT 4a, 3.6% (4/111) to PT 6a and 0.9% (1/111) to PT 7, whereas 5.4% .6/111) of the strains were not typeable (RDNC, reacts but does not conform). After the standardization of amplification conditions, all 238 SE isolates were submitted to RAPD/PCR. Among these, 91.8% (217/238) were classified as pattern A. Twenty-one isolates were differentiated into four patterns and into seven subtypes with the use of primer 1254, and into four patterns and ten subtypes using primer OPB 17. The combination of phage typing and RAPD/PCR proved to be a useful tool in epidemiological investigations. RAPD/PCR can be easily used as a routine laboratory method, thus helping with the monitoring of SE isolates and contributing to the establishment of effective Salmonella Enteritidis control and preventive programs.

RESUMO Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) é um patógeno de importância destacada como causa de toxinfecções alimentares em humanos, prejuízos ao setor produtivo e ampla disseminação no ambiente. Este trabalho objetivou identificar fagotipos e padronizar a RAPD/PCR (DNA polimórfico amplificado ao acaso) para a avaliação de isolados de SE. Foram selecionadas 238 amostras, sendo 104 oriundas de carcaças de frango, 106 de alimentos e material biológico de humanos isolados em episódios de toxinfecções alimentares e 28 de materiais de origem avícola. Foram fagotipadas 111 amostras sendo 57,7% (64/111) do fagotipo 4, 32,4% (36/111) fagotipo 4a, 3,6% (4/111) fagotipo 6a e 0,9% (1/111) fagotipo 7, enquanto 5,4% (6/111) não foram fagotipáveis (RDNC, reagent do not conform). Para a RAPD/PCR foram utilizados 238 isolados de SE. Destes, 91,8% (217/238) foram enquadrados no padrão A e 21 isolados (8,8%) foram diferenciados em quatro padrões e sete subtipos com o primer 1254 e em quatro padrões e dez subtipos com o primer OPB 17. A facilidade de execução da RAPD/PCR, após padronizada, habilita a sua implantação em uma rotina laboratorial, auxiliando na monitoria dos isolados de SE e, conseqüentemente, contribuindo para a elaboração de programas efetivos de controle e prevenção de S. Enteritidis.

Utility of biopsy in kidney transplants with delayed graft function and acute dysfunction.

Renal biopsy is currently the gold standard to assess the causes of renal allograft dysfunction. In the present study, we prospectively assessed the role of the renal allograft biopsy in the diagnosis and treatment of renal allograft dysfunction. Seven hundred and fifteen biopsies were performed in 399 patients. The anatomopathological results in group 1 (delayed graft function) were: 60.4% acute tubular necrosis, 17.6% acute rejection, 4.3% calcineurin inhibitor toxicity, and 17.7% other diagnoses; in group 2 (acute graft dysfunction): 42.3% acute rejection, 22% acute tubular necrosis, 8.4% calcineurin inhibitor toxicity, and 27.3% other diagnoses. Among patients with delayed graft function, 42.2% of biopsies led to a change in the treatment. In 60.5%, the biopsy of patients with acute dysfunction led to a change in the patient management. In our series, the result of the biopsy disagreed with the clinical diagnosis in 39.6% and 57.7% of cases, respectively. These results demonstrated that renal graft biopsy remains an indispensable tool for the accurate management of kidney transplant patients.

Basiliximab improves graft survival in renal transplant recipients with delayed graft function.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of basiliximab in first renal transplant recipients with delayed graft function, defined by the need for dialysis in the first week posttransplantation. Among 148 patients in the study, 90 received basiliximab (60.8%) with 58 comprising the control group. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups related to the evaluated variables, except that the control group received more blood transfusions pretransplantation. There was a lower incidence of steroid-resistant rejection (6% vs 20.9%; P = .017) and humoral rejections (0% vs 7%; P = .038) in the basiliximab group. Also, graft survival was significantly higher in basiliximab group compared with the control one (92.8% vs 80.4%; P = .028). There were no significant differences in the other outcomes. In conclusion, this study confirmed the beneficial effects of addition of basiliximab to the immunosuppressive schema of patients with delayed graft function.

Pesquisa de coliformes termotolerantes, totais e salmonella spp. em carnes caprinas comercializadas na cidade do recife, pernambuco

ABSTRACT The present study was aimed to evaluate the contamination by thermotolerant and total coliforms of in natura andunfrozencaprinemeatcommercializedinthemarketsofthecityof Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, while also identifying, typifying and evaluating the profile of in-vitro susceptibility of the samples of Salmonella spp. Twenty-four samples were analyzed, using official methodologies established by the Animal Laboratory Coordination of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply. The results obtained demonstrate that 15 (62.50%) of the samples analyzed were not within the microbiologic standards. As for total coliforms, 5 (20.83%) samples were found to be in satisfactory sanitary conditions and 19 (79.16%) were found to be outside the meat standard. In the Salmonella spp. research, 7 (29.17%) samples presented contamination by Salmonella spp., there being 8 sorotypes typified: 4 (50%) Salmonella enterica subsp. houtena (O:53), 2 (25%), S. Anatum, 1 (12.50%) S. Rubislaw, 1 (12.50%) S. Derby. The profile of susceptibility obtained in vitro was 100% for norfloxacine, 75% for sulpha + trimetoprim, 62.50% for tetracycline, with a variation of 100% in the resistance to penicillin, novobiocin and oxaciline and of 87.50% for amoxiciline. The study showed that there is a high rate of contamination by thermotolerant and by total coliforms, besides confirming the presence of Salmonella spp. in caprine meat commercialized in the markets of the city of the Recife, constituting a risk factor for public health. Intervention by the departments

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a contaminação na carne caprina in natura e resfriada comercializada nos mercados da Cidade do Recife, PE, por coliformes termotolerantes e totais, além de identificar, tipificar e avaliar o perfil de sensibilidade in vitro das amostras de Salmonella spp. Foram analisadas 24 amostras, utilizando-se metodologias oficiais preconizadas pela Coordenação de Laboratório Animal do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que 15 (62,50%) amostras analisadas encontram-se fora dos padrões microbiológicos. Em relação aos coliformes totais, 5 (20,83%) amostras encontravam-se em condições sanitárias satisfatórias e 19 (79,16%) encontravam-se fora dos padrões para carnes. Na pesquisa de Salmonella spp., 7 (29,17%) amostras apresentaram contaminação por Salmonella spp., sendo tipificados 8 sorotipos: 4 (50%) Salmonella enterica subsp. houtenae (O:53), 2 (25%), S. Anatum, 1 (12,50%) S. Rubislaw, 1 (12,50%) S. Derby. O perfil de sensibilidade in vitro obtido foi de 100% para norfloxacina, 75% para sulfa + trimetoprim, 62,50% para tetraciclina, com variação de 100 na resistência à penicilina, novobiocina e oxacilina e de 87,50% para amoxicilina. Conclui-se que existe um elevado índice de contaminação por coliformes totais e termotolerantes, além de confirmar a presença de Salmonella spp. em carnes caprinas comercializadas nos mercados da Cidade do Recife, PE, constituindo um fator de risco para a saúde pública. A intervenção dos órgãos de Vigilância Sanitária é necessária para melhorar as condições de produção, manuseio e de venda deste produto, além de estabelecer padrões microbiológicos para coliformes totais e termotolerantes para carne caprina resfriada, congelada ou in natura.

Resistência antimicrobiana em salmonella enterica subsp. enterica sorovar hadar isoladas de carcaças de frango

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial resistance is a widely studied issue in all bacterial genera, but in the case of those responsible for zoonotic illnesses, like Salmonella, they merit special attention, because it can be transmitted via foodstuffs to human beings. The present study was carried out to verify the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in 22 samples of Salmonella Hadar isolated from broiler chicken carcasses in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, from May 1995 to April 1996. In the present study, the results indicated that 100% of the Salmonella Hadar isolates were resistant to tetracycline, streptomycin and sulfazotrim, while intermediate resistance was observed at different levels, to nalidixic acid (86.36%), nitrofurantoin (18.18%) and chloramphenicol (4.54%). All isolates were resistant to three or more antimicorbials agents, with five different patterns of resistance. These levels of resistance highlight the need for responsible use of antimicrobial agents in animal production.

RESUMO A resistência antimicrobiana é um assunto amplamente estudado em todos os gêneros bacterianos, sobretudo em relação aos responsáveis por zoonoses, como o caso da Salmonella, a qual merece especial atenção, já que pode ser transmitida para os seres humanos. O presente estudo foi conduzido para verificar a ocorrência de resistência a agentes antimicrobianos em 22 cepas de Salmonella Hadar isoladas de carcaças congeladas de frango no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, no período de maio de 1995 a abril de 1996. No presente estudo, os resultados indicaram que 100% das cepas de Salmonella Hadar apresentaram resistência a tetraciclina, estreptomicina e sulfazotrim, tendo também apresentado resistência em diferentes níveis ao ácido nalidíxico (86,36%), nitrofurantoína (18,18%) e cloranfenicol (4,54%). Todas as cepas de Salmonella Hadar apresentaram resistência a três ou mais agentes antimicrobianos, com cinco diferentes padrões de resistência. Os níveis de resistência observados enfatizam a necessidade do uso responsável dos agentes antimicrobianos na produção animal.

Pesquisa de listeria monocytogenes e microrganismos indicadores higiênico-sanitários em queijo de coalho produzido e comercializado no estado de pernambuco / Survey of listeria monocytogenes e microrganisms indicative of higiênic and sanitáry conditions in "queijo de coalho" cheese produced and sold in the state of pernambuco, brazil

RESUMO Em função da importância socioeconômica do queijo de coalho um produto típico do Nordeste brasileiro e os riscos que seu consumo pode causar à saúde foi realizado o presente estudo para avaliar a incidência de Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella sp. e microrganismos indicadores de contaminação fecal, utilizando-se a metodologia preconizada pela Coordenação de Laboratório Animal do Ministério da Agricultura Pecuária e Abastecimento. Foram analisadas 127 amostras de queijo de coalho, produzidos e comercializados no Estado de Pernambuco das quais 9,5% foram positivas para Listeria sp. e 5,5% positivas para Listeria monocytogenes, 5,5% para Salmonella sp. e com relação a contaminação por coliformes totais, 44,1% das amostras apresentaram mais de 500 UFC/g, e encontravam-se fora do limite aceitável pela legislação, 44,1% das amostras para coliformes termotolerantes. Os resultados apresentados demonstram que a presença de Salmonella sp. e Listeria monocytogenes associada a grande prevalência de coliformes, são indicativos da baixa qualidade higiênica podendo favorecer a presença de microrganismos patogênicos no produto.

ABSTRACT Considering the social and economic importance of "queijo de coalho", a typical cheese very popular in the brazilian northwest, associated with the risk produced by its consumption, the aim of this study was to survey the occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella sp. and microorganisms fecal coliform. The cheeses were examined as recommended in official methodologies from the Coordenação Geral de Laboratório Animal (CGLA) of the Ministerio da Agricultura Pecuaria e Abastecimento (MAPA). In 127 samples of "queijo de coalho" produced and commercialized in the state of Pernambuco that were analyzed, 9.5% of them were positive for Listeria sp., 5.5% positive for Listeria monocytogenes, and 5.5% for Salmonella sp. In relation to coliforms counting, 44.1% of the samples were found to have more than 500 UFC/ g, and 44.1% of samples were found to be outside the standards for heart-resistant coliforms according to the RDC 12 MS. The results demonstrate that Salmonella sp. and Listeriamonocytogenes, associated with the high prevalence of coliforms, are indicates of improper hygienic and sanitary conditions that may allow for the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in this kind of cheese.