Morphological and immunohistochemical study of the midgut and fat body of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: noctuidae) treated with essential oils of the genus Piper.

Essential oils are a promising alternative to insecticides. We investigated the LD50 of oils extracted from Piper corcovadensis, P. marginatum, and P. arboreum after 48 h topical contact with Spodoptera frugiperda larvae using morphometry, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry of the midgut and fat body. Chromatography revealed that E-caryophyllene was the principal compound common to the Piper species. The essential oils of P. corcovadensis, P. marginatum and P. arboreum caused deleterious changes in the midgut of S. frugiperda larvae. P. corcovadensis oil produced the lowest LD50 and significant histopathological alterations including elongation of the columnar cells, formation of cytoplasmic protrusions, reduction in carbohydrate, increased apoptotic index and decreased cell proliferation. P. arboreum oil caused histopathological alterations similar to P. corcovadensis, but caused the highest rate of cell proliferation and increased regenerative cells, which indicated rapid regeneration of the epithelium. Our findings demonstrated the insecticidal potential of P. corcovadensis for control of S. frugiperda owing to the significant damage it inflicted on S. frugiperda midgut.

Characteristics of 1555 childhood-onset lupus in three groups based on distinct time intervals to disease diagnosis: a Brazilian multicenter study.

Objective The objective of this study was to compare demographic data, clinical/laboratorial features and disease activity at diagnosis in three different groups with distinct time intervals between onset of signs/symptoms and disease diagnosis. Methods A multicenter study was performed in 1555 childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (American College of Rheumatology criteria) patients from 27 pediatric rheumatology services. Patients were divided into three childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus groups: A: short time interval to diagnosis (<1 month); B: intermediate time interval (≥1 and <3 months); and C: long time interval (≥3 months). An investigator meeting was held to define the protocol. Demographic data, SLICC classification criteria and SLEDAI-2 K were evaluated. Results The number of patients in each group was: A = 60 (4%); B = 522 (33.5%); and C = 973 (62.5%). The median age at diagnosis (11.1 (4.2-17) vs. 12 (1.9-17.7) vs. 12.5 (3-18) years, P = 0.025) was significantly lower in group A compared with groups B and C. The median number of diagnostic criteria according to SLICC (7 (4-12) vs. 6 (4-13) vs. 6 (4-12), P < 0.0001) and SLEDAI-2 K (18 (6-57) vs. 16 (2-63) vs. 13 (1-49), P < 0.0001) were significantly higher in group A than the other two groups. The frequency of oral ulcers in the palate (25% vs. 15% vs. 11%, P = 0.003), pleuritis (25% vs. 24% vs. 14%, P < 0.0001), nephritis (52% vs. 47% vs. 40%, P = 0.009), neuropsychiatric manifestations (22% vs. 13% vs. 10%, P = 0.008), thrombocytopenia (32% vs. 18% vs. 19%, P = 0.037), leucopenia/lymphopenia (65% vs. 46% vs. 40%, P < 0.0001) and anti-dsDNA antibodies (79% vs. 66% vs. 61%, P = 0.01) were significantly higher in group A compared with the other groups. In contrast, group C had a less severe disease characterized by higher frequencies of synovitis (61% vs. 66% vs. 71%, P = 0.032) and lower frequencies of serositis (37% vs. 33% vs. 25%, P = 0.002), proteinuria >500 mg/day (48% vs. 45% vs. 36%, P = 0.002) and low complement levels (81% vs. 81% vs. 71%, P < 0.0001) compared with groups A or B. Conclusions Our large Brazilian multicenter study demonstrated that for most childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients, diagnosis is delayed probably due to mild disease onset. Conversely, the minority has a very short time interval to diagnosis and a presentation with a more severe and active multisystemic condition.

Common bean seeds quality during storage under treatments with potential repellent of aromatic plants / Qualidade de sementes de feijão carioca armazenado sob tratamentos com plantas aromáticas de potencial repelente

ABSTRACT ndustrial chemicals that control pests in stored seed can cause damage to health by residual effects remaining in the grains. Studies of products with potential insecticide and repellent properties are required to decrease post-harvest losses. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the quality and efficiency of seed treatment in beans stored under the following treatments: dried leaves and crushed laurel (Laurus nobilis L.), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), cinnamon powder (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Breyn) and ground cloves (Syzygium aromaticum L.) over eight months. An untreated control and a treatment with diatomaceous earth were used to compare the results. At the beginning and at 30 days, percentages of normal and abnormal seedlings as well as seeds that did not germinate, mass of onehundred seeds, water content and infested seeds were analyzed. At 210 and 240 days, free choice arena and repellency testswere conducted. Treatments did not affect germination, mass of 100 seeds or water content; however, all plants tested showed a repellent effect on the bean weevil.

RESUMO Produtos químicos industriais que controlam pragas de sementes e grãos armazenados podem causar danos à saúde pelo efeito residual que proporcionam. Assim, são necessários estudos de produtos que apresentem repelência e potencial inseticida e reduzam perdas pós-colheita sem causar danos à saúde. Neste contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade e eficiência do tratamento com plantas aromáticas: folhas desidratadas e moídas de louro (Laurus nobilis), alecrim (Rosmarinus officinalis) e manjericão (Ocimum basilicum L.), canela em pó (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Breyn) e cravo moído (Syzygium aromaticum L.), em sementes de feijão carioca armazenadas durante oito meses. Uma testemunha sem tratamento e outra com terra de diatomáceas foram utilizadas para comparação dos resultados. No início e a cada 30 dias foram realizadas as determinações de plântulas normais, anormais, sementes não germinadas, massa de cem sementes, teor de água e sementes infestadas. Os testes de arena de livre escolha e repelência foram realizados aos 210 e 240 dias. Os tratamentos não influenciaram a germinação, massa de cem sementes, teor de água. Entretanto, todas as plantas testadas apresentaram efeito repelente sobre o caruncho do feijão.

Salvia officinalis L. coverage on plants development / Cobertura de Salvia officinalis L. no desenvolvimento de plantas

ABSTRACT Medicinal plants with essential oils in their composition havetypicallybeen shown to be promising in plant control. Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is cited for its allelopathic effects. This study evaluated the allelopathic potential of dried sage leaves in vegetation, soil and the development of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. (tomato), Panicum maximum Jacq. (guinea grass) and Salvia hispanica L. (chia) plants. Three seedlings were transplanted seven days after germination in 1 kg plastic containers with soil, in a greenhouse. The grinded dry mass of sage was placed at rates of 3.75; 7.5 15 t ha-1, and a control (no mass). After 30 days, the chlorophyll index of tomato and guinea grass plants were inhibited with 7.5 and 15 t ha-1 sage cover crops. Tomato shoot length was inhibited in all tested rates, and guinea grass plants showed some reduction in growth when using the highest rate of sage mass (15 t ha-1). The dry mass of tomato and guinea grass plants was reduced when using the15 t ha-1, and 7.5 and 15 t ha-1 of sage cover crops, respectively. It can be concluded that there was some effect of sage coverage on the soil in tomato and guinea grass, but no effect was observed on chia plants.

RESUMO As plantas medicinais que apresentam óleos essenciais em sua composição normalmente têm se mostrado promissoras no controle de plantas. A sálvia (Salvia officinalis L.) é citada por seus efeitos alelopáticos. Assim, esse estudo avaliou o potencial alelopático das folhas secas de sálvia na cobertura vegetal, no solo, sobre o desenvolvimento das plantas de Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. (tomate), Panicum maximum Jacq. (capim mombaça) e Salvia hispanica L. (chia). Três plântulas foram transplantadas, sete dias após germinação, em vasos plásticos de 1 kg, com terra, em casa de vegetação. Sobre elas foi disposta a massa seca triturada de sálvia nas proporções 3,75; 7,5 e 15 t ha-1, além da testemunha (sem massa). Após 30 dias, o teor de clorofila das plantas de tomate e capim mombaça foi inibido com 7,5 e 15 t ha-1 de sálvia em cobertura. O comprimento da parte aérea do tomate foi inibido em todas as proporções testadas e as plantas de capim mombaça apresentaram redução do crescimento quando se utilizou 15 t ha-1 de sálvia como cobertura. A massa seca das plantas de tomate e capim mombaça reduziu com o uso de 15 t ha-1 e, 7,5 e 15 t ha-1 de sálvia como cobertura, respectivamente. Finalmente, pode-se concluir que houve efeito da sálvia em cobertura sobre o solo em tomate e capim mombaça, mas não houve efeito da mesma sobre as plantas de chia.

The insecticidal potential of Foeniculum vulgareMill., Pimpinella anisum L. and Caryophillus aromaticus L. to control aphid on kale plants / Potencial inseticida de Foeniculum vulgare Mill., Pimpinella anisum L. e Caryophillus aromaticus L.no controle de pulgão em couve

ABSTRACTThe use of natural substances for pest control in agriculture is, economically, a viable option and has benefits for both the humanbeing and the environment, due to its low persistence and toxicity. Thus, this trial aimed on determining the insecticidal potential of the extracts and essential oils of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) and clove (Caryophillus aromaticus L.) to control Brevicoryne brassicae L. in kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala DC.). The treatments were: fennel, anise, cloves extracts at 10%; fennel, anise, cloves oils at 1% and control with distilled water. The mortality tests were carried out with aphids in laboratory, with three replications, after 1, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours. During laboratory trials , it was found out that fennel oil at 1% showed the best rate of mortality on aphid nymphs (70% at 72 h), followed by clove extract at 10% with 37% mortality. Tests in pots were only carried out only with cloves extracts at 10% and fennel oil at 1% treatment, in which such efficiency was alsoindicated on aphid nymphs.

RESUMOO uso de produtos naturais para controle de pragas da agricultura é opção economicamente viável e traz benefícios tanto ao homem como ao ambiente devido à sua baixa persistência e toxicidade. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o potencial inseticida de extratos e óleos essenciais de funcho (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), erva doce (Pimpinella anisum L.) e cravo-da-índia (Caryophillusaromaticus L.) para o controle de pulgão (Brevicoryne brassicae L.) em couve (Brassica oleracea var. acephala DC.). Os tratamentos utilizados foram os extratos de funcho, erva-doce e cravo-da-índia a 10%; óleos de funcho, erva-doce, cravo-da- índia a 1% e testemunha com água destilada. Testes de mortalidade sobre pulgão em condições de laboratório foram realizados com três repetições e avaliações após 1, 12, 24, 48 e 72 h. Em laboratório, verificou-se que o óleo de funcho a 1% apresentou maior atividade sobre as ninfas de pulgão (70% em 72 h), seguido do extrato de cravo a 10%, com 37% de mortalidade. Testes em vasos foram realizados somente com o extrato de cravo-da-índia a 10% e óleo de funcho a 1%, nos quais também se constatou a eficácia sobre as ninfas de pulgão.

Allelopathy of Bidens sulphurea L. aqueous extracts on lettuce development / Alelopatia de extratos aquosos de Bidens sulphureaL. no desenvolvimento de alface

ABSTRACT Allelochemical compounds are present in tissues of different plants` parts and also in other organisms, being released into the environment and thus affecting plants development. There is evidence that secondary metabolites produced by weeds may exhibit several allelopathic effects. This study aimed to evaluate allelopathic activity based on the interaction of aqueous extracts preparations and their concentrations obtained from Bidens sulphurea (Cav.) Sch. Bip. leaves on germination and seedlings development of Lactuca sativa L. cv. Grand rapids (lettuce). The extracts were obtained from fresh leaves and prepared by infusion, decoction, leaching and grinding methods, at concentrations of 0, 7.5, 15, 22.5 and 30%, with four replications with 25 lettuce seeds. Seven days after the percentages of abnormal seedlings and germination, shoot and root length (cm) were evaluated, while germination speed index (GSI) was daily determined and calculated. The experiment was completely randomized in a 4x5 factorial design, with four extract preparation methods and 5 concentrations. It was found out that the B. sulphurea aqueous extracts did not affect the germination and abnormal seedling development percentages in lettuce seeds. The aqueous extracts and their concentrations showed allelopathic effect for GSI, shoot and root length variables, despite their methods of preparation. This effect is not only inhibitory, but in some cases it was also stimulatory.

RESUMO Os aleloquímicos são compostos que estão presentes nos tecidos de diferentes partes das plantas e outros organismos, são liberados no ambiente e atuam no desenvolvimento das mesmas. Existem evidências de que os metabólitos secundários produzidos por plantas invasoras podem apresentar uma variedade de efeitos alelopáticos. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a atividade alelopática através de interação das formas de preparo dos extratos aquosos e suas concentrações obtidas de folhas de Bidens sulphurea (Cav.) Sch. Bip. sobre a germinação e o desenvolvimento de plântulas de Lactuca sativa L. cv. Grand rapids (alface). Os extratos foram obtidos de folhas frescas e preparados sob a forma de infusão, decocção, maceração estática e trituração, nas concentrações de 0; 7,5; 15; 22,5 e 30%, com quatro repetições com 25 sementes de alface. Após sete dias foi avaliado a porcentagem de germinação e plântulas anormais, comprimento da parte aérea e raiz (cm), sendo diariamente as sementes avaliadas para o calculo do índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG). O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, organizado em esquema fatorial 4x5, com 4 formas de preparo dos extratos e 5 concentrações. Foi possível constatar que os extratos aquosos de B. sulphurea não influenciaram o percentual de germinação e formação de plântulas anormais em sementes de alface. As diferentes formas de obtenção dos extratos aquosos e suas concentrações apresentaram efeito alelopático para as variáveis IVG, crescimento da parte aérea e comprimento da raiz não sendo o efeito somente inibitório, mas em alguns casos também de estímulo.

Association between CYP1A1m1 gene polymorphism and primary open-angle glaucoma.

The CYP1A1 gene is related to the generation of secondary metabolites that are capable of inducing DNA damage. The CYP1A1m1 polymorphism has been examined in many studies, and is located in a region near loci that have been linked to glaucoma, including the locus GLC1I. As a result, this polymorphism has been related to several diseases that are influenced by exposure to xenobiotic as well as primary open-angle glaucoma. We compared the prevalence of the CYP1A1m1 polymorphism in 152 Brazilian patients, 100 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, and 52 normal controls using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. The frequency of the homozygous wild-type (w1/w1) CYP1A1 gene among patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (N = 100) was 16%, for genotype w1/m1, the frequency was 77%, and for m1/m1 it was 7%. Among the control group (N = 52), the frequency of the homozygous wild-type (w1/w1) CYP1A1 gene was 54%, the frequency of w1/m1 was 46%, and the frequency of m1/m1 was 0%. The presence of the CYP1A1m1 polymorphism may interfere with xenobiotic metabolism and exacerbate direct or indirect damage to the optic nerve. These CYP1A1m1 polymorphisms may be risk factors for primary open-angle glaucoma.

Association between primary open angle glaucoma and genetic polymorphisms GSTM1/GSTT1 in patients from Goiânia Central-West Region of Brazil.

In this study, we evaluated the genotype profile of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms in patient carriers of primary open-angle glaucoma in the population of Goiânia, GO, Brazil. This case-control study included 100 Brazilian patients with glaucoma and 53 patients without glaucoma. Blood samples were genotyped for polymorphisms in GST genes using polymerase chain reaction-based methods. Polymorphism frequencies were compared using the X(2) test and odds ratio (α = 0.05). The GSTM1-present genotype was 40% in the glaucoma group and 71.6% in the control group, while the GSTM1 null genotype was 60 and 28.3% in the same groups, respectively. The GSTT1-present genotype was 52% in the primary open-angle glaucoma group and 66% in the control group; the null genotype was 48% in the case group and 34% in the control group. The GSTM1 null genotype was more frequent in the glaucoma group than in the control group (P = 0.0004; odds ratio = 6.7; 95% confidence interval = 2.7- 20.3). The combined GSTM1 null and GSTT1-present genotypes were more frequent in the primary open-angle glaucoma group compared to the control group (P = 0.02; odds ratio = 3.1; 95% confidence interval = 1.2-7.9).

Blood glucose as a marker of venous thromboembolism in critically ill children.

BACKGROUND: The ability to predict the development of venous thromboembolism is highly desirable. OBJECTIVE: We aim to determine the association between hyperglycemia and venous thromboembolism in non-diabetic critically ill children. PATIENTS/METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study that included children in the pediatric intensive care unit on a vasopressor or mechanical ventilator and without history of diabetes mellitus or prior diagnosis of thrombosis. Based on maximum blood glucose > 150 mg dL(-1) while admitted to the unit, children were categorized as hyperglycemic or non-hyperglycemic. The primary outcome was development of venous thromboembolism while admitted to the unit. We determined the association between hyperglycemia and venous thromboembolism using logistic regression models adjusting for selected subject characteristics. RESULTS: Of the 789 subjects analyzed, 34 subjects developed venous thromboembolism (incidence, 4.3%; 95% confidence interval, 3-6%). Venous thromboembolism was more likely to develop in hyperglycemic subjects compared with non-hyperglycemic subjects. A total of 31 subjects (6.2%; 95% confidence interval, 4.2-8.7%) developed venous thromboembolism after becoming hyperglycemic compared with three non-hyperglycemic subjects with venous thromboembolism (1%; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-3%). When adjusted for age, diagnosis, presence of central venous catheter, prophylactic antithrombotic use and severity of illness, the odds ratio of venous thromboembolism with hyperglycemia was 4.1 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-14.1). For every 10 mg dL(-1) increase in maximum blood glucose, the adjusted odds ratio of venous thromboembolism was 1.04 (95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.06). CONCLUSION: Hyperglycemia is associated with venous thromboembolism in critically ill non-diabetic children. Maximum blood glucose is a potential predictor of venous thromboembolism in this population.

Produção de mudas de penicilina (Alternanthera brasiliana (L. ) Kuntze) via estaquia / Seedling production of penicillin (Alternanthera brasiliana (L. ) Kuntze) by cuttings

A penicilina (Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze), pertence à família Amaranthaceae e tem sido reconhecida por suas propriedades anti-inflamatória, analgésica, e antiviral. O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a concentração de ácido indolbutírico (AIB) mais adequada para a indução do enraizamento de estacas da penicilina. Foram selecionados ramos herbáceos de plantas matrizes, coletadas em novembro de 2010, para confecção de estacas com 6 cm de comprimento e 2 folhas apicais. As estacas foram desinfestadas através de solução de hipoclorito de sódio (0,5%) por 15 minutos. Em seguida, as estacas da penicilina tiveram suas bases imersas por 10 segundos em soluções de AIB nas concentrações de 0, 250, 500, 750 ou 1000 mg L-1, e foram plantadas em tubetes, sob irrigação em casa de vegetação. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com 80 estacas por tratamento. Após 30 dias não foram observados resultados com diferenças significativas entre os tratamentos utilizados quanto ao enraizamento, crescimento das raízes, mortalidade, massa fresca e seca. No entanto, houve aumento do número de raízes das estacas tratadas nas concentrações mais altas de AIB (750 e 1000 mg L-1) quando comparadas ao controle e aos demais tratamentos. As porcentagens de enraizamento foram acima de 94% para essa espécie, podendo concluir que a propagação via estaquia é viável sem o uso de reguladores para induzir a formação de raízes dessa espécie, a qual pode ser considerada de fácil enraizamento.

Penicillin (Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze) belongs to the Amaranthaceae and has been recognized for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiviral properties. This study aimed to evaluate the most appropriate concentration of indole butyric acid (IBA) to induce rooting of penicillin cuttings. We selected herbaceous branches, collected in November of 2010, to prepare 6 cm long cuttings with two apical leaves and disinfected them in solution of sodium hypochlorite (0.5%) for 15 minutes. Then, the penicillin cuttings had their bases immersed for 10 seconds in IBA at the concentrations of 0, 250, 500, 750 or 1000 mg L-1, planted in small plastic tubes, irrigated and maintained in a greenhouse. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 80 cuttings per treatment. After 30 days, we observed no significant different results among treatments on rooting, root growth, mortality, fresh and dry mass. There was an increase in the number of roots in the cuttings immersed in higher concentrations (750 and 1000 mg L-1) of IBA compared to the control and other treatments. The rooting percentages were above 94% for this species, and we could conclude that the propagation by cuttings is feasible without the use of regulators to induce root formation in this species, which can be considered as easy to root.

Óleo essencial de erva-doce na ração de frangos de corte alojados em cama nova e reciclada / Essential fennel oil the diet of broilers chickens allotted to new and recycled litters

O óleo essencial de erva-doce (OED) foi avaliado como alternativa aos antimicrobianos na ração de frangos de corte alojados em cama nova (CNo) e reciclada (CRe). Foram alojadas 1.050 aves, e adotou-se o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em que de um a 21 dias as aves foram mantidas somente em CNo, resultando em sete tratamentos com 10 repetições de 15 aves: T1= dieta controle positivo (CP) com antimicrobiano (ANT); T2= dieta controle negativo (CN) sem ANT e sem OED; T3= CN + 0,004% OED; T4= CN + 0,008% OED; T5= CN + 0,016% OED; T6= CN + 0,032% OED e T7= CN + 0,064% OED. De 22 a 42 dias, metade das aves foram criadas em CRe, e a outra metade em CNo, resultando em 14 tratamentos com cinco repetições de 15 aves. O OED foi adicionado pela manhã, na proporção de 1/4 do consumo diário da dieta, e, na parte da tarde, o fornecimento foi à vontade. Na fase pré-inicial, a inclusão de 0,015 e 0,026% de OED melhorou o consumo de ração e o ganho de peso, respectivamente. A inclusão de 0,031% de OED melhorou a conversão alimentar dos frangos de um a 21 dias. O OED promoveu maior peso de carcaça de aves alojadas em CNo, maiores pesos de coxa, sobrecoxa e rendimento de sobrecoxa de frangos criados em CRe. O OED melhorou o desempenho de frangos alojados sob condições de CRe.

The effect of essential fennel oil (EFO) as an alternative to antimicrobials in the diet of broiler chickens allotted on two type of new (LNo) and recycled (LRe) litter was evaluated. 1,050 birds were housed and adopted a completely randomized design in which from 1 to 21 days the birds were housed only LNo, with seven treatments and 10 replicates of 15 birds: T1 = positive control diet (PC) with antimicrobials (AM), T2 = negative control diet (NC) without AM and EFO, T3 = NC + 0.004% EFO, T4 = NC + 0.008% EFO, T5 = NC + 0.016% EFO T6 = NC + 0.032% EFO and T7 = NC + 0.064% EFO. From 22 to 42 days half of the birds housed in LRe and half continued in LNo, resulting in 14 treatments with five replicates of 15 birds. The EFO was added in the morning, at a ratio of 1/4 of the daily diet and in the afternoon the supply was at ease. In the pre-initial inclusion of 0.015 and 0.026% of EFO, feed intake and weight gain improved, respectively. The inclusion of 0.031% of EFO improved feed conversion of broilers from 1 to 21 days. The EFO promoted higher carcass in birds housed in LNo, higher drumstick weight, and thigh and drumstick yield for broilers reared in LRe. EFO improved the performance of chickens accommodated under LRe.

Variação sazonal na alelopatia de extratos aquosos de Coleus barbatus (A. ) Benth. sobre a germinação e o desenvolvimento de Lactuca sativa L. / Seasonal variation in the allelopathy of aqueous extracts from Coleus barbatus (A. ) Benth. on the germination and development of Lactuca sativa L.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito alelopático de extratos de Coleus barbatus sobre a germinação e desenvolvimento de plântulas de alface. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em laboratório, em diferentes concentrações de extratos obtidos de folhas de falso-boldo (0; 7,5; 15; 22,5; 30%), coletadas nas quatro estações do ano, obtidos por trituração, maceração, infusão e decocção. As sementes de alface foram distribuídas sobre placas de petri umidecidas com 10 mL de solução. Os resultados mostraram que os extratos de folhas afetaram a germinabilidade de sementes de alface apenas na concentração de 30% do extrato preparado por decocção de folhas coletadas no inverno. O índice de velocidade de germinação apresentou redução significativa nos extratos triturados preparados no outono e inverno; na maceração de folhas coletadas no verão e outono e no extrato de decocção preparado no inverno. Os extratos estimularam o crescimento da parte aérea das plântulas de alface, ao passo que, o comprimento das raízes foi afetado pelos extratos, ora inibindo, ora estimulando o crescimento das mesmas. Os extratos de folhas de falso-boldo coletadas nas quatro estações do ano apresentaram efeito alelopático sobre a germinação e o desenvolvimento da alface, sendo que estes variaram em função da sazonalidade da coleta, da forma de obtenção dos extratos e das concentrações testadas.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic effects of extracts from Coleus barbatus on germination and seedling growth of lettuce. The experiments were conducted in the laboratory using different concentrations (0, 7.5, 15, 22.5, 30%) of aqueous extracts from "falso-boldo" leaves harvested in all four seasons; extracts were obtained by grinding, maceration, infusion and decoction. Seeds were distributed on Petri dishes moistened with 10 mL solution. Results showed that the leaf extracts affected the germination of lettuce seeds only at the concentration of 30% extract prepared by decoction of leaves harvested in the winter. Germination speed index showed significant reduction for ground extracts prepared in the fall and winter, as well as for macerated leaves harvested in the summer and fall and for extracts prepared through decoction in the winter. The extracts stimulated the growth of shoots of lettuce seedlings, whereas root length was affected by the extracts, which either stimulated or inhibited its growth. Extracts of "falso-boldo" leaves harvested in all four seasons had allelopathic effect on germination and development of lettuce, and the latter varied depending on the harvest season, the form of preparing the extracts and the tested concentrations.

Polymorphism of the progesterone receptor gene associated with endometriosis in patients from Goiás, Brazil.

We investigated a possible link between endometriosis and polymorphism of the progesterone receptor gene (PROGINS). The endometriosis group consisted of 54 patients with a diagnosis of endometriosis by laparoscopy, and the control group comprised 44 women without endometriosis. Genotypes for PROGINS polymorphisms (A1/A1, A1/A2 and A2/A2) were determined by polymerase chain reaction and analyzed on a 2% agarose gel stained with ethidium bromide. The frequency of polymorphic genotypes (A1/A2 and A2/A2) was significantly higher in patients with endometriosis (33%) than in the control group (16%). We conclude that there is a significant correlation between PROGINS polymorphism and endometriosis.

RsaI polymorphism of the ERß gene in women with endometriosis.

We examined the frequency of RsaI polymorphism of the ERß gene in 54 patients diagnosed with endometriosis and 46 controls. Peripheral blood was collected from women undergoing laparoscopy with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis. Polymorphisms of the ERß gene and p53 were assessed by PCR and analyzed on 2% agarose gel stained with ethidium bromide. The AG polymorphism genotype frequency in patients with endometriosis was 59.3%, with 40.7% GG. In the control group, the frequency of AG was 6.5%, with 93.5% GG. The frequency of heterozygous AG was nine times higher in patients with endometriosis than in the control group (P < 0.0001).

Interferon-γ +874 polymorphism in the first intron of the human interferon-γ gene and kidney allograft outcome.

BACKGROUND: Despite advances in immunosuppressive therapy in the past decade, allograft rejection remains an important cause of kidney graft failure. Cytokines play a major role in the inflammatory and immune responses that mediate allograft outcomes. Several studies have shown that the production of cytokines varies among individuals. These variations are determined by genetic polymorphisms, most commonly within the regulatory region of cytokine genes. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of allelic variation on acute rejection episodes (ARE) or chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) after kidney transplantation. METHODS: To determine a possible correlation between the interferon (INF)-γ +874 polymorphism and kidney allograft outcome, we isolated genomic DNA from 74 patients who underwent isolated kidney allografts and were classified into 2 groups--a rejection and a nonrejection group--for comparison with a control group of 163 healthy subjects. RESULTS: We genotyped INF-γ +874 polymorphisms in all groups. The transplant group showed a significantly increased homozygous genotype T/T (P = .0118) compared with healthy controls. Similarly, considering only patients with CAN, the homozygous genotype T/T (P = .0067) was significantly increased compared with the healthy controls. The rejection group indicated a significant increased homozygous genotype T/T compared with the control group (P = .0061). CONCLUSION: Homozygous genotype T/T was associated with increased levels of INF-γ and greater numbers among the rejection and CAN cohorts.

Glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 polymorphism in men with idiopathic infertility.

Male infertility is a heterogeneous disorder, with various genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the impairment of spermatogenesis. Genetic causes are responsible for 60% of cases of idiopathic infertility. Polymorphisms of genes that encode detoxifying enzymes of phase II drug metabolism can modify their expression or function, affecting the biotransformation of toxic compounds to which the male reproductive system is exposed. GSTM1 and GSTT1 encode enzymes that are essential in the process of detoxification of endogenous and exogenous xenobiotics, facilitating their excretion. We examined GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphism in 233 men with idiopathic infertility seen at the Human Reproduction Service of the Federal University of Goiás from 2004-2006. Genotype GSTM1/T1 (null) was found in 30/105 normal individuals and in 64/128 abnormal individuals, indicating a significant association with idiopathic male infertility. The sperm alteration associated with greater GSTM1/T1 (null) frequency was decreased sperm count (oligozoospermy), which was more frequent in patients with GSTM1 (78.9%) as well as in those who had GSTT1 (73.7%), although the difference was not significant. Individuals polymorphic for genes GSTM1 and GSTT1 are susceptible to reduction in sperm quality and infertility, possibly because oligozoo spermic individuals have been affected by GST polymorphism.

Analysis of p53 codon 72 gene polymorphism in Brazilian patients with endometriosis.

We examined the frequency of p53 codon 72 polymorphism in 38 patients with endometriosis whose diagnosis was confirmed using videolaparoscopy. Half of the women were infertile. There were no significant differences in the genotype (P = 0.0927) or allele frequencies (P = 0.1430) for p53 Arg72Pro polymorphism between the two groups. We found a significant association between the heterozygous and homozygous proline genotypes and intense pain in the patients. Sixty-four percent of the patients were homozygous or heterozygous for proline in patients with degree III or IV endometriosis, but there was no significant difference compared to homozygous arginine genotype (P = 0.6115). We found that the proline allele is associated with substantial complaints (infertility associated with pain), when compared to the homozygous arginine genotype; we also found that the proline allele was more frequent in endometriosis patients.

[Endonasal tubes as cause of pressure ulcers in the critical patient]. / Sondas endonasales como causa de las úlceras por presión en el paciente crítico.

INTRODUCTION: One of the risks of using endonasal tubes (ET) is the appearance of pressure ulcers (PU). OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the proportion of patients with nasal PU, study the risk factors of appearance, and find predictive variables. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A six-month prospective, observational study of intensive care unit patients with ET. VARIABLES: Variable response: "the appearance of pu as a result of the use of ET". Explanatory variables: age, duration of stay, length of time with ET, gender, sedation, norepinephrine perfusion, mechanical ventilation, anemia, nutritional state. ANALYSIS: multivariate statistical techniques (multiple logistical regression). Statistics program g-stat 2.0. Significance level p < 0.05. RESULTS: Sample of 48 patients. Proportion of patients with PU: 29.2%. Those patients with PU had similar ages, duration of stay and longer length of time with ET. Results of the Logistic Regression model: only the variable "time with ET" was statistically significant (p = 0.03; odds ratio: 1.047). CONCLUSIONS: The length of time the patient is using an ET influences the appearance of nasal PU (risk increases 1.047 for each day with ET). None of the variables dealt with could be used as a predictive factor in the appearance of PU.

Estudo hemodinamico em individuos chagasicos sem cardiopatia aparente. / Hemodynamic study in subjects with Chagas' disease without apparent heart disease

Os autores realizam estudo hemodinamico em 40 individuos chagasicos, con eletrocardiogramas e radiografias do coracao normais, idade variando entre 16 e 51 (media 32,8 anos), sendo 24 homens. Foram excluidas cardiopatias associadas de outras etiologias. A investigacao hemodinamica constou de cinecoronariografia e cateterismo esquerdos. As coronarias nao apresentavam obstrucao ateroscleroticas. Em 19 casos, a hemodinamica mostrou-se normal.Em 21 enfermos, foram verificados discretos aumentos da pd2, hipocinesias discretas e localizadas e lesoes da ponta do ventriculo esquerdo. Chamam a atencao sobre 2 casos, que apresentaram tromboembolismo cerebral: em um, posteriormente, submetido a aneurismectomia, o AVC foi a primeira manifestacao da doenca; e no outro, o diagnostico etiologico, confirmado pela presencao do aneurisma apical a ventriculografia, apos 2 episodios de acidente vascular cerebral, nao obstante a sorologia ser repetidamente negativa. Os autores concluem que o ECG e o RX do coracao podem falhar na verificacao dos estagios iniciais da cardiopatia e que a hemodinamica, com sensibilidade maior, possibilitara, a introducao de medidas profilaticas e terapeuticas das complicacoes da doenca de Chagas, com suas implicacoes medicas, sociais e trabalhistas.Apesar de se tratar de tecnica invasiva, nao ocorreram obitos nem complicacoes importante