Comparison of intraocular lens tilt after capsular sutured scleral fixation with capsular segments versus uneventful cataract surgery.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare intraocular lens (IOL) tilt between uneventful phacoemulsification with in-the-bag IOL implantation and sutured scleral fixation (SSF) of the lens bag with a capsular tension segment (type 6 D / Morcher) using a Sheimpflug camera. SETTING: Clinical Practice, Hospital. Barcelona and A Coruña, Spain. DESIGN: Retrospective, comparative multicenter study. METHODS: IOL tilt was compared between patients who underwent sutured scleral fixation with a capsular tension segment in a single eye (SSF group, n = 15) with patients who underwent uneventful IOL implantation (control group, n = 12) that were matched by biometric measurements. Post-operative refractive accuracy of biometric formulas by means of mean absolute error (MAE) was also reported. All patients underwent a general ophthalmic evaluation, anterior segment photography, and postoperative optical biometry (Zeiss IOLMaster® 500). In addition, IOL tilt was measured with a Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam R, Oculus Optikgerate Gmbh). RESULTS: Mean vertical tilt was similar in both groups (2.20+/-2.47° SSF vs 1.97 +/- 1.79° control; p = 0.836) but mean horizontal tilt tended to higher values in the SSF series (2.09 +/- 2.74° vs 0.94 +/- 1.17°; p = 0.139). Considering post-operative refractive error in diopters by MAE calculations, there was an underestimation of IOL power in the SSF group which was only statistically significant for Barrett Universal II (1.07 vs 0.32; p = 0.028) and Hill-RBF (0.95 vs 0.26; p = 0.024) formulas, but not for SRK/T (0.99 vs 0.42; p = 0.285) and Kane (0.96 vs 0.33; p = 0.083). CONCLUSION: Sutured scleral fixation of capsular tension segments in the presence of zonular instability does not seem to induce clinically significant IOL tilt compared to uneventful cataract extraction cases.

Antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from patients with pneumonia during the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-pandemic periods in Northeast Brazil

Healthcare-related infections caused by resistant microorganisms are a severe public health problem and are becoming increasingly prevalent in the hospital environment, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This work aimed to evaluate the resistance profile of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to antimicrobials before the COVID-19 pandemic and during the pandemic period. Bacteria strains were obtained from tracheal aspiration, sputum, and bronchoalveolar lavage for diagnosis and phenotypic characterization. Matrix assisted laser-desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALD-TOF MS) was used to identify strains. Automated Phoenix and VITEK® 2 Compact system and the disc diffusion method were performed to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile. A total of 41,000 medical reports from adult patients with pneumonia were analyzed. Of these, 951 patients were positive for P. aeruginosa, of which 373 were related to the pre-pandemic period and 578 to the pandemic period. Older men (≥60 years) were more prevalent in both periods. P. aeruginosa strains were resistant to imipenem in both periods: 38.8 and 42.5%, respectively, followed by meropenem (34.2 and 39.2%), ciprofloxacin (33.6 and 36.7%), and levofloxacin (34.9 and 43.5%). Intensive care units had the highest percentage of affected patients (62 and 65%) compared with other sectors, with a prevalence of 71% in the public network before COVID-19 and 59% during the pandemic. Our data showed a prevalence of P. aeruginosa in elderly patients in both the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. In addition, an increase in P. aeruginosa resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, carbapenems, and cephalosporins was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic compared with the period before the pandemic, especially in ICUs.

Characterization of aerosol particles during a high pollution episode over Mexico City.

More than 7 thousand wildfires were recorded over Mexico in 2019, affecting almost 640 thousand hectares. Most of these fires occurred during the spring season generating dense smoke plumes, impacting urban areas in the central part of the Mexican plateau. From May 10 to 17, 2019, biomass burning (BB) plumes affected Mexico City (MC) and diffused across the basin, producing PM2.5 levels ~ 2 times higher than the nation's air quality standards. Average PM2.5 concentrations increased sharply from 29.4 ± 7.2 µg m-3 to 65.1 ± 13.6 µg m-3 when the dense smoke plumes were detected. The higher particle concentration impacted the aerosol optical depth (AOD) as values ~ 3 times greater than the annual mean (0.32 ± 0.12) were measured, which resulted in a 17% loss of global horizontal irradiation (GHI). Under these severe pollution conditions, the visibility (Va) was reduced by ~ 80%. The high incidence of strong absorbent particles, such as soot and tarballs was revealed through electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. These techniques show chemical similarities between MC aerosols and those from the high-altitude (~ 4010 m. a. g. l.) Altzomoni Atmospheric Observatory, evidencing a strong influence of the BB emissions, suggesting a regional transport of these pollutants.

Impacto de la caries dental y enfermedad periodontal sobre la sexualidad de la mujer / Impact of dental caries and periodontal disease on women’s Sexuality

El desarrollo de la sexualidad es imprescindible para lograr un estado de salud integral en un individuo. El sistema estomatognático participa activamente en el desarrollo pleno y armónico de ésta, por lo que patologías como la caries dental y enfermedad periodontal, y la consecuente pérdida de dientes afectan el aspecto físico, psicológico y social de quien las padece. El propósito de esta investigación fue determinar si la caries dental, la enfermedad periodontal o pérdida de dientes afectan los rasgos afectivo, creativo y comunicacional en la sexualidad femenina. La muestra se constituyó por 86 mujeres de entre 18 y 40 años, quienes presentaban caries dental, enfermedad periodontal o pérdida de dientes, a quienes se les realizó el examen oral confirmando el diagnóstico. A todo el grupo se aplicó una encuesta de 15 preguntas desarrolladas para este estudio. Se observó que la presencia de signos y síntomas como halitosis, falta de dientes y alteraciones en la estética influyen en la sexualidad de la mujer, afecciones que aumentan al progresar la severidad de estas patologías. Dado el diseño y las condiciones del presente estudio, los resultados indican que la caries dental y enfermedad periodontal, así como sus consecuencias, tienen relación con las alteraciones en la sexualidad femenina, por lo que sería de gran importancia considerar estas patologías al momento de crear programas de salud bucal enfocándose en la salud integral de la mujer (AU)

The development of sexuality is essential to achieve an integral health state in the individual. The stomatognathic system is actively involved in the full and harmonious development of the person, so diseases such as dental caries and periodontal disease and subsequent tooth loss affect the physical, psychological and social aspect of the patient. The purpose of this research was to determine whether dental caries, periodontal disease or tooth loss affect the emotional, creative and communicative traits of female sexuality. The sample consisted of 86 women between 18 and 40 who had dental caries, periodontal disease or tooth loss, who underwent oral examination to confirm the diagnosis. A survey of 15 questions developed for this study was applied to the whole group. It was observed that the presence of signs and symptoms such as halitosis, missing teeth and cosmetic alterations influence the sexuality of women, increasing with the progression of the severity of these pathologies. Given the design and the conditions of this study, the results indicate that dental caries and periodontal disease and its consequences, are related to changes in female sexuality, so it would be very important to consider these pathologies to create oral health programs and to focus on the overall health of women (AU)

Intermittent administration of parathyroid hormone improves the repairing process of rat calvaria defects: a histomorphometric and radiodensitometric study

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of intermittent treatment of parathyroid hormone (PTH (1-34)) on the bone regeneration of critically-sized rat calvarial bone defects. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-two male rats were trephined (4mm fullthickness diameter), in the central part of the parietal bones and divided into 2 groups of 16. The PTH group received subcutaneous injections of PTH (1-34) at 40μg/kg, 3 times a week and the control (CTL) group received the vehicle in the same regimen. The rats were sacrificed at 4 weeks post-treatment regimen, the parietal bones were extracted and samples were evaluated through histomorphometry and radiodensitometry. RESULTS: The histological observations showed that the PTH group presented more "island-like" new bone between the defect margins with fibrous tissues than did the CTL group. The PTH group significantly exhibited greater histologic bone formation than did the CTL group (1.5mm ±0.7; 1.9 mm ± 0.6, p < 0.05/ for residual bone defect). The radiodensitometry analysis revealed significant differences among the PTH and CTL groups (2.1 Al eq. ±0.04; 1.8Al eq. ±0.06, p < 0.05), demonstrating an increase in bone mineral density. The PTH treatment contributed to the bone formation with a higher amount of mineral and/or fibrous tissue when compared with the CTL group. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that it was possible to increase the process of bone regeneration by accelerating the healing process in rat calvarial defects through intermittent administration of the PTH treatment

Determinação dos parâmetros anatômicos, físico-químico e fitoquímicos das folhas de Solanum lycocarpum A. St. Hill / Determination of the anatomics, physical-chemicals and phytochemicals parameters of the Solanum lycocarpum A. St. -Hill leaves.

RESUMO A espécie vegetal Solanum lycocarpum, Solanaceae, popularmente conhecida como lobeira, está distribuída por todo o Brasil, principalmente em áreas do cerrado. Estudos comprovam que os frutos possuem diversas atividades e, atualmente, estão sendo utilizados no tratamento da diabetes. As folhas são utilizadas popularmente contra afecções das vias urinárias, cólicas abdominais e renais, espasmos e epilepsia, porém são poucos os estudos científicos que verificam as atividades farmacológicas das folhas. Assim, torna-se necessária a determinação de parâmetros anatômicos, físico-químicos e fitoquímicos que auxiliarão em futuras identificações e controle de qualidade da droga vegetal. Neste estudo foi realizada a coleta, secagem e pulverização das folhas de Solanum lycocarpum para a obtenção da droga vegetal e posterior caracterização desta. As análises microscópicas do pecíolo, nervura central e mesofilo revelaram características típicas da família Solanaceae, observando-se um sistema vascular bicolateral e a presença de areia cristalina e tricomas estrelados. A triagem fitoquímica, constatou a presença de taninos, flavonoides, esteróides e triterpenos, cumarinas e saponinas. Obteve-se o teor médio de 9,90% de perda por dessecação, 7,91% de cinzas totais e de 0,37% de cinzas insolúveis em ácidos. Para as substâncias extraíveis por álcool, o teor médio encontrado foi de 14,479% para o método de extração por Soxhlet e 0,987% para o método de extração a frio. Assim, espera-se que esses dados possam ser utilizados na identificação e controle de qualidade da droga vegetal de Solanum lycocarpum para a produção de novos medicamentos fitoterápicos.

ABSTRACT The plant species Solanumlycocarpum, Solanaceae, most known as lobeira, are distributed throughout Brazil, especially in Cerrado areas. Studies show that the fruits own different properties and, currently, are being used in the treatment of diabetes. Even though the leaves are being used by the general population against urinary tract disorders, renal and abdominal cramps, spasms and epilepsy, there are few scientific studies that verify the possible pharmacological activities of leaves. This shows that it is necessary to research and determinate the anatomic, physical-chemicals and the phytochemicals parameters that are going to help in the identification and quality assurance of the drug. In this study the leaves of Solanum lycocarpum were collected, dried and pulverized in order to be obtained the plant drug for further characterization.. Microscopic analyzes of the petiole, midrib and mesophyll showed typical features of the Solanaceae family, by detecting a biocolateral vascular system and the presence of crystallines and and stellatetrichomes. In the phytochemical screening performed, the tanning, flavonoids, sterols and triterpenes, coumarins and saponins were found. We obtained an average grade of 9.90% loss on the drying, total ash of 7.91% and 0.37% of ash insoluble in acids. . For the substances extractable through alcohol, the average content found was 14.479% for the Soxhlet extraction method and 0.987% for the cold extraction method. This data can be used in the identification and quality assurance of the plant drugs of Solanum lycocarpum for the production of new herbal medicines.

Factors affecting in vitro maturation of alpaca (Lama paco) oocytes.

The present study utilized a 2×2×2 factorial design examining age (old vs. young), follicle size (≥2mm vs. <2mm) and media supplementation (with or without fetal bovine serum [FBS]) to determine factors that might affect in vitro maturation of alpaca oocytes. We hypothesized that oocytes collected from follicles ≥2mm from young alpacas and incubated in maturation media supplemented with FBS would have greater maturation rates than those incubated in any other factorial combination. Oocytes were collected from the ovaries of 11 young alpacas (<10 years old) and 14 old alpacas (>11 years old). Oocytes were classified as morphologically normal oocytes (MNO) and deemed suitable for incubation if ≥3 compact layers of cumulus cells and a homogeneous, evenly granulated cytoplasm were observed. Oocytes from each group of follicle sizes were incubated separately and halves of each group were randomly divided and incubated 24h in chemically defined maturation media with or without 10% FBS. Maturation was defined as the visualization of a polar body at the end of the incubation period. Overall, a greater proportion of MNO were collected from follicles ≥2mm than that obtained from smaller follicles, 55% (136/247) vs. 29.6% (162/547), respectively (P<0.05). A greater proportion of oocytes reached maturation when collected from ≥2mm follicles 36% (49/136) than from <2mm follicles 8% (13/162) (P<0.05). For oocytes obtained from ≥2mm follicles of old alpacas, a greater proportion reached maturation when incubated in media supplemented with FBS than when incubated without FBS; 57.6% (19/33) vs. 18.2% (6/33), respectively (P<0.05).

Teor de metionina + cistina total para codornas de corte do grupo genético EV2 durante o período de crescimento / Total methionine + cystine diet content for EV2 strain of European quail during the growing period

Avaliou-se o efeito de diferentes porcentagens de inclusão de metionina + cistina sobre o desempenho de codornas de corte durante as fases inicial - nascimento ao 21º dia - e total de criação - nascimento a 35º dia de idade. Foram utilizadas 288 codornas, de ambos os sexos, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com seis porcentagens de inclusão de metionina + cistina total, 0,73; 0,79; 0,85; 0,91; 0,97 e 1,03%, quatro repetições e 12 aves por unidade experimental. As variáveis avaliadas foram peso corporal, ganho de peso, consumo e conversão alimentar do nascimento ao 21º dia e do nascimento ao 35º dia de idade. Verificou-se efeito quadrático da inclusão do nascimento ao 21º dia de idade para todas as características avaliadas, observando melhor desempenho com 0,97% de metionina + cistina para peso corporal e ganho de peso, e 0,96% para consumo e conversão alimentar. Houve efeito quadrático da adição nível de metionina + cistina do nascimento ao 35º dia de idade para peso corporal, ganho de peso e consumo alimentar, com melhor desempenho com 0,95; 0,95 e 0,96%, respectivamente. A exigência de metionina + cistina para máximo ganho de peso na fase inicial foi de 0,97%, e para fase total de criação 0,95%.

The effect of total methionine + cystine on performance of European quail EV2 strain during two phases of the growth period (from hatch to 21 days and from hatch to 35 days of age) were evaluated in a completely randomized experimental design, with six levels of methinine + cystine (.73; .79; .85; .91; .97 and 1.03), four replicates and 12 quails per experimental unit. Body weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed:weight gain ratio were recorded from hatch to 21 days and from hatch to 35 days of age. The quadratic effect of methionine + cystine was observed for all traits measured from hatch to 21 days of age. Highest body weight and weight gain were estimated for quails fed .95% methionine + cystine diets, while better feed intake and feed:weight gain ratio were estimated for those fed .96% diets. The quadratic effects of methionine + cystine levels on body weight, weight gain and feed intake were also observed from hatch to 35 days of age, with estimated highest performance for quails fed .95%; .95%;and .96% diets, respectively. Methionine + cystine requirement for EV2 strain is .97% from hatch to 21 days of age and .97% from hatch to 35 days of age.

Microbiota benefits after inulin and partially hydrolized guar gum supplementation: a randomized clinical trial in constipated women.

INTRODUCTION: Prebiotics positively affect gut microbiota composition, thus improving gut function. These properties may be useful for the treatment of constipation. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the tolerance and effectiveness of a prebiotic inulin/partially hydrolyzed guar gum mixture (I-PHGG) for the treatment of constipation in females, as well as its influence on the composition of intestinal microbiota and production of short chain fatty acids. METHODS: Our study enrolled 60 constipated female health worker volunteers. Participants reported less than 3 bowel movements per week. Volunteers were randomized to treatment with prebiotic or placebo. Treatment consisted of 3 weeks supplementation with 15 g/d IPHGG (fiber group) or maltodextrin (placebo group). Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, stool consistency, and bowel movements were evaluated by a recorded daily questionnaire and a weekly interview. Changes in fecal bacterial population and short chain fatty acids were assessed by real-time PCR and gas chromatography, respectively. RESULTS: There was an increased frequency of weekly bowel movements and patient satisfaction in both the fiber and placebo groups with no significant differences. Total Clostridium sp significantly decreased in the fiber group (p = 0.046) and increased in the placebo group (p = 0.047). There were no changes in fecal short chain fatty acid profile. CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of I-PHGG produced clinical results comparable to placebo in constipated females, but had additional protective effects on gut microbiota by decreasing the amount of pathological bacteria of the Clostridium genera.

Desempenho de codornas de corte oriundas de diferentes classes de idades da matriz e de peso dos ovos / Performance of European quails from different classes of breeder age and egg weight categories

Estudou-se o efeito interação idade da matriz versus peso do ovo sobre o desempenho produtivo de codornas de corte (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) no 21º e 42º dias de idade. Em cada classe de idade da matriz, iniciada a partir de 70, 205 e 280 dias, foram incubados 600 ovos, separados em três categorias de peso: categoria 1 − ovos com 11,0-12,9g; categoria 2 − ovos com 13,0-14,9g; e categoria 3 − ovos com 15,0-16,9g. Após a eclosão, em cada idade da matriz, foram utilizadas 225 codornas de um dia, de ambos os sexos, provenientes das três categorias de peso, sendo 75 codornas por categoria. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, com os tratamentos consistindo de um fatorial 3x3, ou seja, três classes de idades da matriz x três categorias de peso do ovo, com cinco repetições de 15 codornas por unidade experimental. A dieta experimental foi única para todos os tratamentos com 28% de proteína bruta e 2900kcal de energia metabolizável. O desempenho das codornas foi avaliado por meio das variáveis ganho de peso (g), peso corporal (g), consumo da dieta (g/ave) e conversão alimentar (g de dieta/g de peso) no 21º e 42º dias de idade. Não houve interação significativa entre idade da matriz e categoria de peso do ovo sobre as características de desempenho das codornas. Codornas oriundas de ovos mais pesados e de matrizes das classes 205 e 280 dias de idade apresentaram maiores desempenhos. No 42º dia de idade das codornas, não houve diferença para categoria de peso do ovo. Ovos mais pesados originaram codornas mais pesadas ao nascimento.

The effects of breeder ages versus egg weight interaction on performance traits of European quail (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) at 21 and 42 days of age were studied in a completely randomized experimental design with 9 treatments, 5 replicates and 15 quails per experimental unit. The treatments consisted of a 3x3 factorial combination, three breeder ages (beginning at 70, 205 and 280 days of age) and three egg weight categories (category 1 - from 11.0 to 12.9g; category 2 - from 13.0 to 14.9g and category 3 - from 15.0 to 16.9g). The quails were fed a unique experimental diet containing 28% crude protein and 2900kcal of metabolizable energy. The following performance traits were recorded: body weight (g), weight gain (g), feed intake (g) and feed intake: weight gain ratio (g/g) at 21 and 42 days of age. No significant interaction effects between breeder age and egg weight categories were observed for all performance traits. Quails from heavier egg weight categories and breeder ages beginning at 205 and 280 days of age showed higher performance. No effects of egg weight categories on performance traits at 42 days of age were observed. Heavier egg weight categories resulted in a heavier quail at hatch.

Uso de redes neurais artificais na predição de valores genéticos para peso aos 205 dias em bovinos da raça Tabapuã / Use of artificial neural networks in breeding values prediction for weight at 205 days in Tabapuã beef cattle

Dados de 19240 animais Tabapuã, provenientes de 152 fazendas localizadas em diversos estados brasileiros, nascidos entre 1976 e 1995, foram utilizados para predição do valor genético do peso aos 205 dias de idade (VG_P205) por meio de redes neurais artificiais (RNAs) e usando o algoritmo LM - Levenberg Marquardt - para treinamento dos dados de entrada. Por se tratar de rede com aprendizado supervisionado, foram utilizados, como saída desejada, os valores genéticos preditos pelo BLUP para a característica P205. Os valores genéticos do P205 obtidos pela RNA e os preditos pelo BLUP foram altamente correlacionados. A ordenação dos valores genéticos do P205 oriundos das RNAs e os valores preditos pelo BLUP (VG_P205_RNA) sugeriram que houve variação na classificação dos animais, indicando riscos no uso de RNAs para avaliação genética dessa característica. Inserções de novos animais necessitam de novo treinamento dos dados, sempre dependentes do BLUP.

Data from 19,240 Tabapuã animals from 152 farms located in different states of Brazil, born from 1976 to 1995, were used to predict the genetic value of body weight at 205 days of age (BV_P205) of Tabapuã beef cattle using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and LM algorithm - Levenberg Marquardt training for data entry. Due to the use of networks with supervised learning, the predicted breeding values for P205 from BLUP were used as desired output. The breeding values for P205 obtained from RNA and those predicted by BLUP were highly correlated. The ranked breeding values for body weight at 205 days through RNA and those predicted by BLUP (VG_P205_RNA) showed a variation in the classification of animals indicating risks in the use of ANNs procedure for genetic evaluation of this trait. Insertions of new animals require new training data always dependent on BLUP.

Estimativas de componentes de (co)variância para peso e escores visuais de conformação frigorífica em bovinos Nelore / Variance component estimates for weight and visual scores of slaughter conformation in Nellore cattle

Estimaram-se os componentes de (co)variância e herdabilidade da conformação frigorífica à desmama (CFD), conformação frigorífica ao sobreano (CFS), peso à desmama (PD) e peso ao sobreano (PS) de animais Nelore, e as correlações genéticas entre essas características. Um modelo animal multicaracterística foi proposto para analisar 6.397 informações de peso e escores visuais de conformação frigorífica, obtidas à desmama e ao sobreano. Esse modelo incluiu os efeitos aleatórios genético aditivo direto, genético aditivo materno, ambiente permanente materno e residual, além dos efeitos fixos de grupo contemporâneo e das covariáveis idade da mãe ao parto - para peso e conformação frigorífica à desmama e ao sobreano - e idade do animal à data da avaliação - para conformação frigorífica, à desmama e ao sobreano. As herdabilidades estimadas para CFD, CFS, PD e PS foram, respectivamente, 0,13, 0,25, 0,22 e 0,29. Correlações genéticas positivas e de alta magnitude entre as características de peso e as características de avaliação visual sugerem que a seleção para uma delas pode resultar em resposta indireta na outra. A característica de conformação frigorífica pode ser selecionada em idade mais precoce em razão da correlação genética alta e positiva entre mensurações feitas nas duas idades estudadas.

The aim of this study was to estimate variance components, heritability and genetic correlation for slaughter conformation at weaning (SCW), slaughter conformation at yearling age (SCY), weaning weight (WW) and yearling age weight (YW) of Nellore cattle. A total of 6,397 records of all traits measured at weaning and at yearling age were used in the analysis. A multiple trait animal model which included the direct genetic additive, maternal genetic additive, maternal permanent environmental and residual random effects, as well as the fixed effect of contemporary group and the covariates age at calving (for weight and slaughter conformation at weaning and yearling age) and age at the evaluation time (slaughter conformation at weaning and yearling age) was proposed. The heritability estimates for SCW, SCY, WW and YW were, respectively, 0.13, 0.25, 0.22 and 0.29. Positive and high genetic correlations between body weight traits and visual evaluation traits suggested that direct selection for one trait results in positive indirect response in the remaining trait. Slaughter conformation trait can be selected at earlier age due to the high and positive genetic correlation between conformation scores at different age.

Determination of oxytetracycline in milk samples by polymer inclusion membrane separation coupled to high performance liquid chromatography.

The determination of oxytetracycline in milk samples using a polymer inclusion membrane concept with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was studied. The membranes developed are composed by cellulose acetate as polymer base, Cyanex 923 as carrier and o-nitrophenyl octyl ether as plasticizer. In the optimal conditions, the method exhibits good linearity in the range 0.03-0.20 mg L(-1) with a limit of detection and quantification of 8.2 and 27.3 µg L(-1) respectively. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of milk samples with high selectivity.

Anatomia foliar de soja infectada por Phakopsora pachyrhizi H. Sydow & Sydow e tratadas com extratos vegetais / Leaf anatomy of soybean infected with Phakopsora pachyrhizi H. Sydow & Sydow and treated with plant extracts

Folhas de Glycine max (L.) Merril,infectadas pelo fungo Phakopsora pachyrhizi H. Sydow & Sydow e tratadas com extratos vegetais foram avaliadas, visando determinar in vivo as modificações anatômicas nas diferentes estruturas/tecidos foliares, além de reconhecer prováveis mecanismos de defesa. Folhas de soja cultivar 181 provenientes do quinto nó foram inoculadas com fungo e tratadas com diferentes extratos vegetais, água e álcool 70%. Para comparação foram analisadas a anatomia das folhas sadia e infectada e realizadas medidas nas estruturas/tecidos foliares. Na folha infectada, observou-se destruição da epiderme e parênquima lacunoso, visível proliferação de tricomas e cutícula espessada, principalmente na face abaxial. Observou-se a presença de compostos fenólicos nas células da epiderme quando rompida, em função do crescimento micelial. Nas folhas infectadas e tratadas com os extratos vegetais de Azadirachta indica, Maytenus ilicifolia e Allium sativum, as estruturas/tecidos vegetais apresentaram aumento de espessura por alongamento celular.

Glycine max (L.) Merril leaves, infected by the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi H. Sydow & Sydow and treated with plant extracts, were evaluated with the aim of determining in vivo the anatomical modifications in different leaf structures and of identifying probable defense mechanisms. Leaves from the 181 soybean cultivar originated from the fifth node were inoculated with the fungus and treated with different plant extracts, water and alcohol at 70%. For comparison, the anatomy of the healthy and infected leaves was analyzed and the leaf structures were measured. In the infected leaf, there was destruction of the epidermis and lacunar parenchyma, apparent trichome proliferation and denser cuticle, especially on the abaxial surface. There were also phenolic compounds in ruptured epidermis cells, due to mycelium growth. In the infected leaves treated with Azadirachta indica, Maytenus ilicifolia and Allium sativum extracts, the plant tissues had an increase in thickness due to cell elongation.

Influence of omega-3 fatty acids from the flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) on the brain development of newborn rats / Influencia de los ácidos grasos omega-3 de la linaza (Linum usitatissimum) en el desarrollo del cerebro de ratas recién nacidas

Objectives: The importance of essential fatty acids, in particular the omega-3 family, in the central nervous system development of newborns is well documented. The flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) is considered one of the best vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The influence of omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed on the brain development of newborn rats was evaluated. Material and methods: Pups of the F1 generation were obtained from 18 female Wistar rats divided in 3 groups (n = 6), FG: fed with diet based on Flaxseed added with casein, CG: Casein, and MCG: Modified Casein supplemented with fibers and soybean oil. Newborn pups were weighted and submitted to euthanasia; brains were collected for evaluation of weight and lipid profile through gaseous chromatography. Results: Significant increase in brain weight (39%) and relative brain weight (37%) was verified in pups from mothers fed with flaxseed diet. The omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids from the flaxseed were found in abundance in the diet made with this oleaginous and also significant increase in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (38%), as well as in total of omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids (62%). Conclusion: Maternal diet of flaxseed during pregnancy influences the incorporation of omega-3 fatty acid in the composition of brain tissue, assuring a good development of this organ in newborn rats (AU)

Objetivos: La importancia de los ácidos grasos esenciales, en particular la familia omega-3, en el desarrollo del sistema nervioso central de los recién nacidos está bien documentada. La semilla de linaza (Linum usitatissimum) es considerada una de las mejores fuentes vegetales de ácidos grasos omega-3. Se evaluó la influencia de los ácidos grasos omega-3 de la linaza en el desarrollo del cerebro de ratas recién nacidas. Material y métodos: Las crías de la generación F1 se obtuvieron a partir de 18 ratas Wistar divididas en 3 grupos (n = 6), GL: alimentados con dieta a base de linaza adicionada con caseína, GC: a base de caseína, y GCM: con caseína modificada suplementada con fibras y aceite de soja. Las crías recién nacidas fueron pesadas y sometidas a eutanasia; los cerebros fueron recolectados para la evaluación del peso y el perfil lipídico mediante cromatografía gaseosa. Resultados: Se verificó aumento significativo en el peso cerebral (39%) y en el peso relativo del cerebro (37%) en las crías de madres alimentadas con la dieta de linaza. Los ácidos grasos omega-3 (n-3) de la linaza se encontraron en abundancia en la dieta elaborada con esta oleaginosa, y también hubo importante aumento en el ácido docosahexaenoico (DHA) (38%), así como en el total de ácidos grasos omega-3 (n-3) (62%). Conclusión: La dieta materna a base de linaza durante el embarazo influye en la incorporación de ácidos grasos omega-3 en la composición del tejido cerebral, asegurando un buen desarrollo de este órgano en ratas recién nacidas (AU)

Flaxseed and its contribution to body growth and brain of Wistar rats during childhood and adolescence / Linaza y su contribución al crecimiento del cuerpo y el cerebro de ratas wistar durante la infancia y la adolescencia

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of flaxseed upon body growth and brain of rats. Methods: Experimental phase lasted 52 days, using 42 Wistar rats which were divided into four groups: Control (CG, n = 12), 10% casein diet; Flaxseed (GL, n = 12), 10% flaxseed diet plus casein; Modified Control (GCM, n = 12), 10% casein diet with changes in lipid and fiber comparable to GL; Non-protein (GA, n = 6), diet without protein. Considering food intake, protein intake and weight variation, the Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) was calculated. Net Protein Retention (NPR) and the Food Efficiency Ratio (CEA) were also determined relative to brain weight at 30 days of life (M30) and at 52 days (M52). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Test of Sheffe and post-test of Bonferroni were used, p < 0.05. Results: GL had lower food intake, protein and weight variation than GC, but had higher values than GCM. Concerning PER, GL was lower than GC and similar to the GCM, as well as CEA. As for NPR, GL had lower values than the CG and GCM. At M30, GL was superior to GC in relation to brain weight. Likewise, the same was observed at M52. Conclusion: Flaxseed promoted adequate growth and better brain development in animals, which might be explained by increased incorporation of omega-3 into these tissues (AU)

Objetivos: Evaluar el efecto de la linaza en el crecimiento corporal y del cerebro de ratones. Métodos: El estudio experimental duró 52 días, utilizando 42 ratones Wistar, que fueron divididos en cuatro grupos: Control (GC, n = 12), dieta con 10% de caseína; Linaza (GL, n = 12), 10% de la dieta de linaza adicionada de caseína; Control Modificado (GCM n = 12), 10% de caseína con los cambios en los lípidos y fibra comparable a GL, Sin proteína (GA, n = 6), dieta sin proteínas. Fueron controlados la ingesta de alimentos, la ingesta de proteínas y la variación de peso, fueron calculados el Índice de Eficiencia Proteica (PER), la retención proteica neta (NPR) y el Índice de Eficiencia de Alimentación (CEA). Se determinó también el peso cerebral relativo a los 30 días de vida (M30) y 52 días (M52). Fue utilizado ANOVA, prueba de Sheffé y coeficiente de Bonferroni, con p< 0,05. Resultados: GL tuvo menor consumo de alimentos, proteínas y variación del peso sobre GC, pero tuvo valores más altos que GCM. Con relación a PER, GL fue inferior a GC y similar a GCM, así como en el CEA. GL tuvo valores menores valores de NPR que GC y GCM. En M30, GL fue superior a GC en relación al peso relativo del cerebro. Lo mismo se observó en M52. Conclusiones: La linaza promueve un crecimiento adecuado y un mejor desarrollo cerebral en los animales, lo que podría explicarse por una mayor incorporación de ácidos grasos omega-3 en estos tejidos (AU)

Waist circumference is better associated with high density lipoprotein (HDL-c) than with body mass index (BMI) in adults with metabolic syndrome.

BACKGROUND: The measurement of waist circumference (WC) is the most prevalent cause of the metabolic syndrome (MS). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to correlate WC and BMI with high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c) levels in patients with MS being consulted by the Family Health Program (PSF), Brazil. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2008 with 42 patients (29 women and 13 men) from 35 to 77 years. Dietary intake was reported, and biochemical and body composition measures were taken. RESULTS: The HDL-c levels were higher in women when compared to men (48.4 ± 8.1 mg/dL vs. 36.4 ± 7.8 mg/dL). However, the triglycerides (TG)/HDL-c ratio and TG concentrations were lower in women (3.8 ± 1.5 and 178.0 ± 57.8 mg/dL, respectively) than in men (9.4 ± 8.5 and 471.5 ± 501.5 mg/dL, respectively). Regarding skinfold profile, the triceps was greater in females (37.0 ± 8.4 cm vs. 20.7 ± 10.5 cm). The dietetic profile showed that women had a lower intake of energy, fiber, phosphorus and sodium. The fruits and vegetables intake was diminished in the participants of this study, as less than 60% of the women and 50% of men met the daily recommendations. Approximately 54% of men and 28% of women had a lower intake of dairy products daily. Moreover, the results shows that the WC was negatively correlated to HDL-c (r = -0.41, p < 0.05) whereas the BMI is not associated with HDL-c (r = -0.34, p > 0.06). CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that WC is a better predictor of changes in HDL-c than BMI.

Influence of flaxseed during lactation on the reproductive system of female Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVES: The goal of this article was to evaluate the association between flaxseed intake during lactation and its effects on the reproductive indexes in female offspring at infancy, puberty and adult age. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two groups were evaluated, an experimental group (FG, n=24) which consumed a flaxseed based diet and a control group (CG, n=26) which had access to a casein based diet. Both of them were fed exclusively with the mentioned diets during all lactation and after weaning the pups received a standard laboratory diet until sacrifice (at weaning, in the moment of vaginal opening or at 90 days old). It was analyzed the puberty onset, estrous cycle, serum estradiol and albumin concentrations, body weight, uterine and ovarian weights. RESULTS: Estradiol and albumin serum concentrations, body weight, uterine and ovarian relative weights were similar in FG and CG at weaning, at vaginal opening and at 90 days old. There was not significant difference in puberty onset between FG and CG, both had similar body weight at vaginal opening. The length of estrous cycle was similar for both groups. There was no significant difference concerning number of females with irregular estrous cycle, only 2 females had irregular cycle in FG and 3 in the CG. None of the females was acyclic. CONCLUSION: Flaxseed intake during lactation did not interfere with sexual maturation and reproductive organs development, suggesting that its consumption during this period is safe for sexual development of female offspring.

Influence of flaxseed during lactation on the reproductive system of female Wistar rats / Influencia de la linaza durante la lactancia sobre el sistema reproductivo de ratas Wistar

Objetives: The goal of this article was to evaluate the association between flaxseed intake during lactation and its effects on the reproductive indexes in female offspring at infancy, puberty and adult age. Material and methods: Two groups were evaluated, an experimental group (FG, n = 24) which consumed a flaxseed based diet and a control group (CG, n = 26) which had access to a casein based diet. Both of them were fed exclusively with the mentioned diets during all lactation and after weaning the pups received a standard laboratory diet until sacrifice (at weaning, in the moment of vaginal opening or at 90 days old). It was analyzed the puberty onset, estrous cycle, serum estradiol and albumin concentrations, body weight, uterine and ovarian weights. Results: Estradiol and albumin serum concentrations, body weight, uterine and ovarian relative weights were similar in FG and CG at weaning, at vaginal opening and at 90 days old. There was not significant difference in puberty onset between FG and CG, both had similar body weight at vaginal opening. The length of estrous cycle was similar for both groups. There was no significant difference concerning number of females with irregular estrous cycle, only 2 females had irregular cycle in FG and 3 in the CG. None of the females was acyclic. Conclusion: Flaxseed intake during lactation did not interfere with sexual maturation and reproductive organs development, suggesting that its consumption during this period is safe for sexual development of female offspring (AU)

Objetivos: el propósito de este artículo era evaluar la asociación entre la ingestión de hierba del chancho durante la lactancia y sus efectos sobre los índices de reproducción en las hijas en la lactancia, pubertad y edad adulta. Material y métodos: se evaluaron dos grupos, uno experimental (FG, n = 24) que consumía una dieta basada en la hierba del chancho y un grupo control (CG, n = 26) que consumía una dieta basada en caseína. Ambos grupos fueron alimentados exclusivamente con las dietas mencionadas durante toda la lactancia y tras el destete los cachorros recibieron una dieta estándar de laboratorio hasta su sacrificio (en el destete, en el momento de la apertura vaginal o hasta la edad de 90 días.) Se analizó el inicio de la pubertad, el ciclo estrogénico, el estradiol sérico y las concentraciones de albúmina, el peso corporal, y los pesos del útero y los ovarios. Resultados: las concentraciones séricas de estradiol y albúmina, el peso corporal y los pesos relativos del útero y los ovarios fueron similares entre FG y CG en el destete, en el momento de la apertura vaginal y a los 90 días de vida. No hubo una diferencias significativas en el inicio de la pubertad entre FG y CG, y ambos grupos mostraron un peso corporal similar en el momento de la apertura vaginal. La duración del ciclo estrogénico fue similar en ambos grupos. No hubo una diferencia significativa con respecto al número de hembras con ciclos estrogénicos irregulares; sólo 2 hembras tuvieron un ciclo irregular en el FG y 3 en el CG. Ninguna hembra se quedó sin ciclo. Conclusión: el consumo de hierba del chancho durante la lactancia no interfirió con la maduración sexual ni el desarrollo de los órganos reproductores, lo que sugiere que su consumo durante este periodo es seguro para el desarrollo sexual de los descendientes femeninos (AU)

Spawning season, recruitment and early life distribution of Anchoa tricolor (Spix and Agassiz, 1829) in a tropical bay in southeastern Brazil

The pattern of the use of the Sepetiba Bay, a semi-closed 450 km² area in southeastern Brazil, by Anchoa tricolor was investigated to assess spawning period, recruitment and to detect spatial-temporal patterns of this major fishery resource. Fishes were sampled by seine nets, from spring, 1998 to winter, 1999 and by beach seine, from spring, 1998 to winter, 2000. Reproductive season, measured in terms of GSI, gonad development and appearance of recruits, indicate that reproduction occurs from August to March, when they reach the best condition. Recruitment peaks in winter/spring at sandy beaches where they stay until late summer, moving toward deeper bay areas during autumn. After that, they join adults and perform movements between the bay and the adjacent continental shelf to reproduce.

O padrão de uso da Baía de Sepetiba, uma área semifechada no Sudeste do Brasil, por Anchoa tricolor foi estudado visando determinar o período reprodutivo, recrutamento e detectar padrões de distribuição espacial e temporal. As amostras foram realizadas por rede de cerco, entre a primavera de 1998 e o inverno de 1999, e por arrasto de praia, da primavera de 1998 ao inverno de 2000. O período reprodutivo, estimado com base no índice gonadossomático, desenvolvimento gonadal e aparecimento de recrutas, ocorre de agosto a março, quando é atingida a melhor condição dos adultos. O recrutamento ocorre principalmente no inverno/primavera nas praias arenosas onde eles permanecem até fins do verão, movendo-se para áreas mais fundas da baia durante o outono. Depois disto eles se juntam aos adultos e fazem movimentos entre a baia e a plataforma costeira adjacente para reproduzir.