Reproductive biology of Syagrus coronata (Arecaceae): sex-biased insect visitation and the unusual case of scent emission by peduncular bracts.

Several monoecious species of palms have developed complex strategies to promote cross-pollination, including the production of large quantities of floral resources and the emission of scents that are attractive to pollinators. Syagrus coronata constitutes an interesting model with which to understand the evolution of plant reproductive strategies in a monoecious species adapted to seasonally dry forests. We monitored blooming phenology over 1 year, during which we also collected and identified floral visitors and putative pollinators. We identified potential floral visitor attractants by characterizing the scent composition of inflorescences as well as of peduncular bracts, during both male and female phases, and the potential for floral thermogenesis. Syagrus coronata produces floral resources throughout the year. Its inflorescences are predominantly visited by a diverse assortment of small-sized beetles, whose richness and abundance vary throughout the different phases of anthesis. We did not find evidence of floral thermogenesis. A total of 23 volatile compounds were identified in the scent emitted by the inflorescences, which did not differ between male and female phases; whereas the scent of the peduncular bracts was composed of only 4-methyl guaiacol, which was absent in inflorescences. The composition of floral scent chemistry indicates that this palm has evolved strategies to be predominantly pollinated by small-sized weevils. Our study provides rare evidence of a non-floral scent emitting structure involved in pollinator attraction, only the second such case specifically in palms. The peculiarities of the reproductive strategy of S. coronata might play an important role in the maintenance of pollination services and pollen dispersion.

Angistrongylus cantonensis and Ancylostoma caninum detection in snails of São Paulo city (2016-2017), Brazil / Detecção de Angistrongylus cantonensis and Ancylostoma caninum em caramujos da cidade de São Paulo (2016-2017), Brasil

Achatina fulica snails cause environmental problems and represent a public health hazard since it is a host in the life cycles of various parasites, among them, Angiostrongylus cantonensis and, less frequently, Ancylostoma caninum. We report the occurrence of Angistrongylus cantonensis, as well as the unexpected finding of Ancylostoma caninum, in a total of 936 specimens of Achatina fulica snails from different regions of São Paulo city, Brazil. Samples were divided into 492 pools which were screened for nematodes. If present, larvae were submitted to DNA extraction and PCR protocol targeting, the ITS-2 gene junction. From the 183 positive pools for larvae presence, 97 showed specific 650 bp band at electrophoresis and 21 presented bands nearly 300 bp. Two amplicons from each size were and sequenced. A BLAST/n of 650 bp sequences presented identity with Angistrongylus cantonensis, while the two of 300 bp, showed identity with Ancylostoma caninum, also supported by phylogenetic analysis. This is the second report of Ancylostoma caninum found in these snails in the world, therefore, this study allows a better understanding about these diseases and highlights the need of continue systematically mapping sites that can be infested with the mollusc.

Os caramujos Achatina fulica causam problemas ambientais e representam um perigo em Saúde Pública uma vez que são hospedeiros de vários parasitas, entre eles o Angiostrongylus cantonensis e menos frequentemente o Ancylostoma caninum. Nós relatamos a ocorrência de Angistrongylus cantonensis, bem como o achado de Ancylostoma caninum, a partir de 936 espécimens de caramujos Achatina fulica de diferentes regiões da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Amostras foram divididas em 492 pools os quais foram triados para nematóides. Se presentes, larvas foram submetidas a extração de DNA e um protocolo de PCR tendo como alvo a junção do gene ITS-2. De 183 pools contendo larvas, 97 apresentaram bandas específicas de 650 pb e na eletroforese 21 apresentaram bandas próximas aos 300 pb. Dois amplicons de cada tamanho foram sequenciados. A submissão ao BLAST/n das sequências de 650 pb apresentaram identidade das sequências com Angistrongylus cantonensis, enquanto que as duas de 300 pb apresentaram identidade com Ancylostoma caninum, também corroboradas por análises filogenéticas. Este é o segundo relato do encontro de Ancylostoma caninum nestes caramujos no mundo, sendo assim, este estudo permite um melhor entendimento destas doenças e denota a necessidade de contínuo monitoramento de regiões que estejam infestadas pelo molusco.

Angistrongylus cantonensis and Ancylostoma caninum detection in snails of São Paulo city (2016-2017), Brazil / Detecção de Angistrongylus cantonensis and Ancylostoma caninum em caramujos da cidade de São Paulo (2016-2017), Brasil

Achatina fulica snails cause environmental problems and represent a public health hazard since it is a host in the life cycles of various parasites, among them, Angiostrongylus cantonensis and, less frequently, Ancylostoma caninum. We report the occurrence of Angistrongylus cantonensis, as well as the unexpected finding of Ancylostoma caninum, in a total of 936 specimens of Achatina fulica snails from different regions of São Paulo city, Brazil. Samples were divided into 492 pools which were screened for nematodes. If present, larvae were submitted to DNA extraction and PCR protocol targeting, the ITS-2 gene junction. From the 183 positive pools for larvae presence, 97 showed specific 650 bp band at electrophoresis and 21 presented bands nearly 300 bp. Two amplicons from each size were and sequenced. A BLAST/n of 650 bp sequences presented identity with Angistrongylus cantonensis, while the two of 300 bp, showed identity with Ancylostoma caninum, also supported by phylogenetic analysis. This is the second report of Ancylostoma caninum found in these snails in the world, therefore, this study allows a better understanding about these diseases and highlights the need of continue systematically mapping sites that can be infested with the mollusc.(AU)

Os caramujos Achatina fulica causam problemas ambientais e representam um perigo em Saúde Pública uma vez que são hospedeiros de vários parasitas, entre eles o Angiostrongylus cantonensis e menos frequentemente o Ancylostoma caninum. Nós relatamos a ocorrência de Angistrongylus cantonensis, bem como o achado de Ancylostoma caninum, a partir de 936 espécimens de caramujos Achatina fulica de diferentes regiões da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Amostras foram divididas em 492 pools os quais foram triados para nematóides. Se presentes, larvas foram submetidas a extração de DNA e um protocolo de PCR tendo como alvo a junção do gene ITS-2. De 183 pools contendo larvas, 97 apresentaram bandas específicas de 650 pb e na eletroforese 21 apresentaram bandas próximas aos 300 pb. Dois amplicons de cada tamanho foram sequenciados. A submissão ao BLAST/n das sequências de 650 pb apresentaram identidade das sequências com Angistrongylus cantonensis, enquanto que as duas de 300 pb apresentaram identidade com Ancylostoma caninum, também corroboradas por análises filogenéticas. Este é o segundo relato do encontro de Ancylostoma caninum nestes caramujos no mundo, sendo assim, este estudo permite um melhor entendimento destas doenças e denota a necessidade de contínuo monitoramento de regiões que estejam infestadas pelo molusco.(AU)

ANGISTRONGYLUS CANTONENSIS AND ANCYLOSTOMA CANINUM DETECTION IN SNAILS OF SÃO PAULO CITY (2016-2017), BRAZIL / ANGISTRONGYLUS CANTONENSIS AND ANCYLOSTOMA CANINUM DETECTION IN SNAILS OF SÃO PAULO CITY (2016-2017), BRAZIL.

Achatina fulica snails cause environmental problems and represent a public health hazard since it is a host in the life cycles of various parasites, among them, Angiostrongylus cantonensis and, less frequently, Ancylostoma caninum. We report the occurrence of Angistrongylus cantonensis, as well as the unexpected finding of Ancylostoma caninum, in a total of 936 specimens of Achatina fulica snails from different regions of São Paulo city, Brazil. Samples were divided into 492 pools which were screened for nematodes. If present, larvae were submitted to DNA extraction and PCR protocol targeting, the ITS-2 gene junction. From the 183 positive pools for larvae presence, 97 showed specific 650 bp band at electrophoresis and 21 presented bands nearly 300 bp. Two amplicons from each size were and sequenced. A BLAST/n of 650 bp sequences presented identity with Angistrongylus cantonensis, while the two of 300 bp, showed identity with Ancylostoma caninum, also supported by phylogenetic analysis. This is the second report of Ancylostoma caninum found in these snails in the world, therefore, this study allows a better understanding about these diseases and highlights the need of continue systematically mapping sites that can be infested with the mollusc.

Achatina fulica snails cause environmental problems and represent a public health hazard since it is a host in the life cycles of various parasites, among them, Angiostrongylus cantonensis and, less frequently, Ancylostoma caninum. We report the occurrence of Angistrongylus cantonensis, as well as the unexpected finding of Ancylostoma caninum, in a total of 936 specimens of Achatina fulica snails from different regions of São Paulo city, Brazil. Samples were divided into 492 pools which were screened for nematodes. If present, larvae were submitted to DNA extraction and PCR protocol targeting, the ITS-2 gene junction. From the 183 positive pools for larvae presence, 97 showed specific 650 bp band at electrophoresis and 21 presented bands nearly 300 bp. Two amplicons from each size were and sequenced. A BLAST/n of 650 bp sequences presented identity with Angistrongylus cantonensis, while the two of 300 bp, showed identity with Ancylostoma caninum, also supported by phylogenetic analysis. This is the second report of Ancylostoma caninum found in these snails in the world, therefore, this study allows a better understanding about these diseases and highlights the need of continue systematically mapping sites that can be infested with the mollusc.

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.

Addition of a Second Metal (Co) to Molybdenum Carbide: Effect of the Doping Route.

Molybdenum carbide is an interesting and versatile material, which has important applications in the metal matrix industry as a reinforcement material, as well as in the catalytic field. Though many papers suggest different methodologies for adding cobalt to the carbide structure aiming either to increase catalytic activity or enhancing mechanical proprieties such as ductility, etc. no straightforward evaluation is available. In the present paper two doping methodologies were studied: via solid state mixture of powders and via wet impregnation. Ammonium molybdate [(NH4)2MoO4] and cobalt nitrate [Co(NO3)2·6H2O] were used as starting materials and the doping process was carried out before carburization reaction. Those materials were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, XRF and XRD. The carbo-reduction products' were evaluated on XRD and XRF basis. Doped precursors' evaluation showed that the wet impregnated doped materials presented smaller particle sizes, were more homogeneous and retained more cobalt than the solid state doped ones. However, final products' assessment indicated that the solid state methodology was able to retain a greater dopant percentage according to XRF evaluation, and XRD data indicated a more intrinsic addition of the dopant to the carbide structure. In addition, no significant changes on particle size could be attributed to any of the methodologies, both producing Mo2C of approximately 30 nm.

Hypotensive effect induced by microinjection of Alamandine, a derivative of angiotensin-(1-7), into caudal ventrolateral medulla of 2K1C hypertensive rats.

In the present study we evaluated the cardiovascular effects produced by microinjection of the new component of the renin-angiotensin system, alamandine, into caudal ventrolateral medulla of urethane-anesthetized normotensive and hypertensive 2K1C rats. The participation of different angiotensin receptors in the effects of alamandine was also evaluated. Microinjection of angiotensin-(1-7) was used for comparison. The microinjection of 4, 40 and 140pmol of alamandine or angiotensin-(1-7) into caudal ventrolateral medulla induced similar hypotensive effects in Sham-operated rats. However, contrasting with angiotensin-(1-7), in 2K1C rats the MAP response to the highest dose of alamandine was similar to that observed with saline. The microinjection of A-779, a selective Mas receptor antagonist, blunted the angiotensin-(1-7) effects but did not block the hypotensive effect of alamandine in Sham or in 2K1C rats. However, microinjection of D-Pro7-angiotensin-(1-7), a Mas/MrgD receptor antagonist, blocked the hypotensive effect induced by both peptides. Furthermore, microinjection of PD123319, a putative AT2 receptor antagonist blocked the hypotensive effect of alamandine, but not of angiotensin-(1-7), in Sham and 2K1C rats. Microinjection of the AT1 receptor antagonist, losartan, did not alter the hypotensive effect of angiotensin-(1-7) or alamandine in both groups. These results provide new insights about the differential mechanisms participating in the central cardiovascular effects of alamandine and angiotensin-(1-7) in normotensive and 2K1C hypertensive rats.

Anti-ribosomal P antibody: a multicenter study in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Objectives Anti-ribosomal P protein (anti-P) autoantibodies are highly specific for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the evaluation of this autoantibody in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) populations has been limited to a few small series, hampering the interpretation of the clinical and laboratorial associations. Therefore, the objective of this multicenter cohort study was to evaluate demographic, clinical/laboratorial features, and disease damage score in cSLE patients with and without the presence of anti-P antibody. Methods This was a retrospective multicenter study performed in 10 pediatric rheumatology services of São Paulo state, Brazil. Anti-P antibodies were measured by ELISA in 228 cSLE patients. Results Anti-P antibodies were observed in 61/228 (27%) cSLE patients. Frequencies of cumulative lymphadenopathy (29% vs. 15%, p = 0.014), acute confusional state (13% vs. 5%, p = 0.041), mood disorder (18% vs. 8%, p = 0.041), autoimmune hemolytic anemia (34% vs. 15%, p = 0.001), as well as presence of anti-Sm (67% vs. 40%, p = 0.001), anti-RNP (39% vs. 21%, p = 0.012) and anti-Ro/SSA antibodies (43% vs. 25%, p = 0.016) were significantly higher in cSLE patients with anti-P antibodies compared to those without these autoantibodies. A multiple regression model revealed that anti-P antibodies were associated with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (odds ratio (OR) = 2.758, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.304-5.833, p = 0.008) and anti-Sm antibody (OR = 2.719, 95% CI: 1.365-5.418, p = 0.004). The SLICC/ACR damage index was comparable in patients with and without anti-P antibodies ( p = 0.780). Conclusions The novel association of anti-P antibodies and autoimmune hemolytic anemia was evidenced in cSLE patients and further studies are necessary to determine if anti-P titers may vary with this hematological manifestation.

GWAS Identifies New Loci for Painful Temporomandibular Disorder: Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos.

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain and reduced function in the temporomandibular joint and/or associated masticatory musculature. Prevalence in the United States is 5% and twice as high among women as men. We conducted a discovery genome-wide association study (GWAS) of TMD in 10,153 participants (769 cases, 9,384 controls) of the US Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). The most promising single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were tested in meta-analysis of 4 independent cohorts. One replication cohort was from the United States, and the others were from Germany, Finland, and Brazil, totaling 1,911 TMD cases and 6,903 controls. A locus near the sarcoglycan alpha ( SGCA), rs4794106, was suggestive in the discovery analysis ( P = 2.6 × 106) and replicated (i.e., 1-tailed P = 0.016) in the Brazilian cohort. In the discovery cohort, sex-stratified analysis identified 2 additional genome-wide significant loci in females. One lying upstream of the relaxin/insulin-like family peptide receptor 2 ( RXP2) (chromosome 13, rs60249166, odds ratio [OR] = 0.65, P = 3.6 × 10-8) was replicated among females in the meta-analysis (1-tailed P = 0.052). The other (chromosome 17, rs1531554, OR = 0.68, P = 2.9 × 10-8) was replicated among females (1-tailed P = 0.002), as well as replicated in meta-analysis of both sexes (1-tailed P = 0.021). A novel locus at genome-wide level of significance (rs73460075, OR = 0.56, P = 3.8 × 10-8) in the intron of the dystrophin gene DMD (X chromosome), and a suggestive locus on chromosome 7 (rs73271865, P = 2.9 × 10-7) upstream of the Sp4 Transcription Factor ( SP4) gene were identified in the discovery cohort, but neither of these was replicated. The SGCA gene encodes SGCA, which is involved in the cellular structure of muscle fibers and, along with DMD, forms part of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. Functional annotation suggested that several of these variants reside in loci that regulate processes relevant to TMD pathobiologic processes.

Outcomes of 847 childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients in three age groups.

Objective The objective of this study was to assess outcomes of childhood systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) in three different age groups evaluated at last visit: group A early-onset disease (<6 years), group B school age (≥6 and <12 years) and group C adolescent (≥12 and <18 years). Methods An observational cohort study was performed in ten pediatric rheumatology centers, including 847 cSLE patients. Results Group A had 39 (4%), B 395 (47%) and C 413 (49%). Median disease duration was significantly higher in group A compared to groups B and C (8.3 (0.1-23.4) vs 6.2 (0-17) vs 3.3 (0-14.6) years, p < 0.0001). The median Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SLICC/ACR-DI) (0 (0-9) vs 0 (0-6) vs 0 (0-7), p = 0.065) was comparable in the three groups. Further analysis of organ/system damage revealed that frequencies of neuropsychiatric (21% vs 10% vs 7%, p = 0.007), skin (10% vs 1% vs 3%, p = 0.002) and peripheral vascular involvements (5% vs 3% vs 0.3%, p = 0.008) were more often observed in group A compared to groups B and C. Frequencies of severe cumulative lupus manifestations such as nephritis, thrombocytopenia, and autoimmune hemolytic anemia were similar in all groups ( p > 0.05). Mortality rate was significantly higher in group A compared to groups B and C (15% vs 10% vs 6%, p = 0.028). Out of 69 deaths, 33/69 (48%) occurred within the first two years after diagnosis. Infections accounted for 54/69 (78%) of the deaths and 38/54 (70%) had concomitant disease activity. Conclusions This large multicenter study provided evidence that early-onset cSLE group had distinct outcomes. This group was characterized by higher mortality rate and neuropsychiatric/vascular/skin organ damage in spite of comparable frequencies of severe cumulative lupus manifestations. We also identified that overall death in cSLE patients was an early event mainly attributed to infection associated with disease activity.

Herpes zoster infection in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients: a large multicenter study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this multicenter study in a large childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) population was to assess the herpes zoster infection (HZI) prevalence, demographic data, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, treatment, and outcome. METHODS: A retrospective multicenter cohort study (Brazilian cSLE group) was performed in ten Pediatric Rheumatology services in São Paulo State, Brazil, and included 852 cSLE patients. HZI was defined according to the presence of acute vesicular-bullous lesions on erythematous/edematous base, in a dermatomal distribution. Post-herpetic neuralgia was defined as persistent pain after one month of resolution of lesions in the same dermatome. Patients were divided in two groups for the assessment of current lupus manifestations, laboratory findings, and treatment: patients with HZI (evaluated at the first HZI) and patients without HZI (evaluated at the last visit). RESULTS: The frequency of HZI in cSLE patients was 120/852 (14%). Hospitalization occurred in 73 (61%) and overlap bacterial infection in 16 (13%). Intravenous or oral aciclovir was administered in 113/120 (94%) cSLE patients at HZI diagnosis. None of them had ophthalmic complication or death. Post-herpetic neuralgia occurred in 6/120 (5%). After Holm-Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, disease duration (1.58 vs 4.41 years, p < 0.0001) was significantly lower in HZI cSLE patients compared to those without HZI. Nephritis (37% vs 18%, p < 0.0001), lymphopenia (32% vs 17%, p < 0.0001) prednisone (97% vs 77%, p < 0.0001), cyclophosphamide (20% vs 5%, p < 0.0001) and SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (6.0 (0-35) vs 2 (0-45), p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in the former group. The logistic regression model showed that four independent variables were associated with HZI: disease duration < 1 year (OR 2.893 (CI 1.821-4.597), p < 0.0001), lymphopenia <1500/mm(3) (OR 1.931 (CI 1.183-3.153), p = 0.009), prednisone (OR 6.723 (CI 2.072-21.815), p = 0.002), and cyclophosphamide use (OR 4.060 (CI 2.174-7.583), p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: HZI is an early viral infection in cSLE with a typical dermatomal distribution. Lymphopenia and immunosuppressive treatment seem to be major factors underlying this complication in spite of a benign course.

Investigation of Influenza A, West Nile and Newcastle Disease Viruses in Birds from the Pantanal Wetlands of Mato Grosso, Brazil

The Pantanal is the world's largest wetland biome with a seasonal flood pulse that attracts a great diversity of birds, many of which are migratory. Birds can be natural reservoirs Influenza A, West Nile and Newcastle Disease viruses. However, the occurrence of carriers for these viruses in the Pantanal was not verified yet. The present study evaluated the occurrence of natural infection by Influenza A, WN and ND virus of birds in the municipality of Poconé, a subregion of the Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. A total of 76 birds belonging to 11 orders and 20 families were captured using mist nets. The most representative order was Passeriformes, followed by the other nine orders, which included Columbiformes, Psittaciformes, Charadriiformes and Anseriformes. The most representative family was Thamnophilidae, with 16 individuals (21.0%), followed by the family Tyrannidae with 10 individuals (7.6%) and the family Furnariidae, with eight individuals (10.5%). The bird species were identified, and cloacal and tracheal swab samples were collected. The samples were subjected to RNA extraction and tested for the presence of the three agents by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). All the sampled birds were considered healthy, had no clinical sign of infection, and were tested negative for the three viruses. Based on our findings, we can conclude that Influenza, West Nile and Newcastle Disease viruses were absent from the samples in this region of the Pantanal wetlands during the period of this study.(AU)

Investigation of Influenza A, West Nile and Newcastle Disease Viruses in Birds from the Pantanal Wetlands of Mato Grosso, Brazil

The Pantanal is the world's largest wetland biome with a seasonal flood pulse that attracts a great diversity of birds, many of which are migratory. Birds can be natural reservoirs Influenza A, West Nile and Newcastle Disease viruses. However, the occurrence of carriers for these viruses in the Pantanal was not verified yet. The present study evaluated the occurrence of natural infection by Influenza A, WN and ND virus of birds in the municipality of Poconé, a subregion of the Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. A total of 76 birds belonging to 11 orders and 20 families were captured using mist nets. The most representative order was Passeriformes, followed by the other nine orders, which included Columbiformes, Psittaciformes, Charadriiformes and Anseriformes. The most representative family was Thamnophilidae, with 16 individuals (21.0%), followed by the family Tyrannidae with 10 individuals (7.6%) and the family Furnariidae, with eight individuals (10.5%). The bird species were identified, and cloacal and tracheal swab samples were collected. The samples were subjected to RNA extraction and tested for the presence of the three agents by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). All the sampled birds were considered healthy, had no clinical sign of infection, and were tested negative for the three viruses. Based on our findings, we can conclude that Influenza, West Nile and Newcastle Disease viruses were absent from the samples in this region of the Pantanal wetlands during the period of this study.

Mercado de trabalho da enfermagem: aspectos gerais / Nursing work market: general aspects

O artigo tem como objetivo analisar os aspectos gerais do mercado de trabalho da equipe de enfermagem, quanto a forma que se insere nos setores estruturantes do setor da saúde, seja, público, privado, filantrópico e ensino.É um estudo transversal cuja população alvo é constituída por todos os enfermeiros, técnicos e auxiliares de enfermagem do Brasil, que possuem registro ativo no Conselho Federal de Enfermagem (COFEN). O estudo tem representatividade nacional, sendo capaz de gerar resultados para cada unidade da federação. Os resultados apontam para hegemônica empregabilidade do setor público; concentração da Força de trabalho da Enfermagem (FTEn) nos grandes centros urbanos; escassez de enfermeiros nos interiores do país; nova composição intra-categorias, entre outros. Sinalizam ainda para uma extensa jornada de trabalho, vínculos precários, rendimentos mensais aquém do básico para um trabalho decente, ou seja, subjornadas, subsalários e subempregos. Uma equipe que soma 1,8 milhão de profissionais, sendo 414 mil enfermeiros e 1,4 milhão de técnicos e auxiliares, ou seja, 65% da equipe de saúde que atua no sistema, traz uma diversidade e complexidade de análises. Os dados da pesquisa permite subsidiar a construção de políticas públicas adequadas com a realidade desse imenso contingente de trabalhadores, fundamentais para o Sistema Único de Saúde. (AU)

The article aims to analyze the general aspects of the nursing staff labor market, as the way they operate in structuring sectors of the health sector, that is, (public, private, philanthropic and education). It is a cross-sectional study whose target population consists of all nurses, technicians and nursing assistants from Brazil, which have active registration with the Federal Nursing Council (COFEN). The study has a national presence, being able to generate results for each state. The results point to the hegemonic employment in the public sector; concentration of the Nursing Workforce (FTEn) in large urban centers; shortage of nurses in the country's interior; intra-composition new categories. Signal yet for an extensive working hours, precarious links, monthly income below the basics for a decent job, sub journeys, sub wages and underemployment. A team that sum 1.8 million professionals, 414,000 nurses and 1.4 million technicians and assistants, namely 65% of the health team working in the system, brings a diversity and complexity analysis. The survey data may subsidize the construction of public policies adequate to the reality of the huge number of workers, essential for the Health System.(AU)

El artículo tiene como objetivo analizar los aspectos generales del mercado de trabajo del personal de enfermería, ya que la forma en que operan en los sectores de estructuración del sector de la salud, es decir, (públicas, privadas, filantrópicas y la educación). Se trata de un estudio transversal cuya población objetivo consta de todas las enfermeras, técnicos y auxiliares de enfermería de Brasil, que tienen el registro activo con el Consejo Federal de Enfermería (COFEN). El estudio tiene una presencia nacional, siendo capaz de generar resultados para cada estado. Los resultados apuntan a la hegemónica de empleo en el sector público; concentración de la Fuerza Laboral de Enfermería (FTEn) en los grandes centros urbanos; escasez de enfermeras en el interior del país; intra-composición nuevas categorías. Señal sin embargo, para una extensa jornada de trabajo, vínculos precarios, ingresos mensuales por debajo de lo básico para un trabajo decente, es decir subjornadas, subsalários y subempleo. Un equipo que suma 1,8 millones profesionales, 414.000 enfermeras y 1,4 millones de técnicos y auxiliares, es decir, 65% del equipo de salud que trabajan en el sistema, trae una diversidad y complejidad de análisis. Los datos de la encuesta pueden subsidiar la construcción de políticas públicas adecuadas a la realidad de la gran cantidad de trabajadores, esenciales para el Sistema de Salud.(AU)

Differential Expression of Myogenic Regulatory Factor Genes in the Skeletal Muscles of Tambaqui Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier 1818) from Amazonian Black and Clear Water.

Hypothesizing that the Amazonian water system differences would affect the expression of muscle growth-related genes in juvenile tambaqui Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier 1818), this study aimed to analyze the morphometric data and expression of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) in the white and red muscle from tambaqui obtained from clear and black Amazonian water systems. All of the MRF transcript levels (myod, myf5, myogenin, and mrf4) were significantly lower in the red muscle from black water fish in comparison to clear water fish. However, in white muscle, only the myod transcript level was significantly decreased in the black water tambaqui. The changes in MRFs gene expression in muscle fibers of tambaqui from black water system provide relevant information about the environmental influence as that of water systems on gene expression of muscle growth related genes in the C. macropomum. Our results showed that the physical and chemical water characteristics change the expression of genes that promote muscle growth, and these results may be also widely applicable to future projects that aim to enhance muscle growth in fish that are of substantial interest to the aquaculture.

Single sublethal dose of microcystin-LR is responsible for different alterations in biochemical, histological and physiological renal parameters.

Microcystins (MCYSTs) are very stable cyclic peptidic toxins produced by cyanobacteria. Their effects on hepatic tissue have been studied extensively, and they are considered to be a potent hepatotoxin. However, several effects of MCYST on other organs have also been described, but generally in studies using higher doses of MCYST. In the present work, we investigated the effect of a single sublethal dose of MCYST-LR (55 µg/kg) in Wistar rats and analyzed different aspects that influenced renal physiology, including toxin accumulation, excretion, histological morphology, biochemical responses and oxidative damage in the kidney. After 24 h of exposure to MCYST-LR, it was possible to observe an increased glomerular filtration rate (6.28 ± 1.56 vs 2.16 ± 0.48 µl/min per cm(2)) compared with the control group. Increase of interstitial space and collagen deposition corresponded to a fibrotic response to the increased production of reactive oxygen species. The observed decrease of Na(+) reabsorption was due to inhibition of the activity of both Na(+) pumps in proximal tubules cells. We suggested that this modulation is mediated by the effect of MCYST as a phosphatase protein inhibitor that maintains the sustained kinase-mediated regulatory phosphorylation of the ATPases. The observed alteration of Na(+) active transporters lead to damage of renal function, since are involved in regulation of water and solute reabsorption in proximal tubules. The results of this report reinforce the importance of understanding the molecular effects of a single sublethal dose of MCYST-LR, which, in this study, was responsible for macro-alterations found in the renal parenchyma and renal physiology in rats.

Differentiation of hematopoietic stem cell and myeloid populations by ATP is modulated by cytokines.

Extracellular nucleotides are emerging as important regulators of inflammation, cell proliferation and differentiation in a variety of tissues, including the hematopoietic system. In this study, the role of ATP was investigated during murine hematopoiesis. ATP was able to reduce the percentage of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), common myeloid progenitors and granulocyte-macrophage progenitors (GMPs), whereas differentiation into megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitors was not affected. In addition, in vivo administration of ATP to mice reduced the number of GMPs, but increased the number of Gr-1(+)Mac-1(+) myeloid cells. ATP also induced an increased proliferation rate and reduced Notch expression in HSCs and impaired HSC-mediated bone marrow reconstitution in sublethally irradiated mice. Moreover, the effects elicited by ATP were inhibited by suramin, a P2 receptor antagonist, and BAPTA, an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator. We further investigated whether the presence of cytokines might modulate the observed ATP-induced differentiation. Treatment of cells with cytokines (stem cell factor, interleukin-3 and granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulator factor) before ATP stimulation led to reduced ATP-dependent differentiation in long-term bone marrow cultures, thereby restoring the ability of HSCs to reconstitute hematopoiesis. Thus, our data suggest that ATP induces the differentiation of murine HSCs into the myeloid lineage and that this effect can be modulated by cytokines.

Systemic lupus erythematosus: association with KIR and SLC11A1 polymorphisms, ethnic predisposition and influence in clinical manifestations at onset revealed by ancestry genetic markers in an urban Brazilian population.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder of the connective tissue with a wide and heterogeneous spectrum of manifestations, with renal and neurological involvement usually related to worse prognosis. SLE more frequently affects females of reproductive age, and a high prevalence and renal manifestation seem to be associated with non-European ethnicity. The present study aims to investigate candidate loci to SLE predisposition and evaluate the influence of ethnic ancestry in the disease risk and clinical phenotypic heterogeneity of lupus at onset. Samples represented by 111 patients and 345 controls, originated from the city of Belém, located in the Northern Region of Brazil, were investigated for polymorphisms in HLA-G, HLA-C, SLC11A1, MTHFR, CASP8 and 15 KIR genes, in addition to 89 Amerindian samples genotyped for SLC11A1. We also investigated 48 insertion/deletion ancestry markers to characterize individual African, European and Amerindian ancestry proportions in the samples. Predisposition to SLE was associated with GTGT deletion at the SLC11A1 3'UTR, presence of KIR2DS2 +/KIR2DS5 +/KIR3DS1 + profile, increased number of stimulatory KIR genes, and European and Amerindian ancestries. The ancestry analysis ruled out ethnic differences between controls and patients as the source of the observed associations. Moreover, the African ancestry was associated with renal manifestations.

Toad poisoning in three dogs: case reports

Toad poisoning is frequent in dogs, but has been infrequently addressed in published case reports and review articles. Dogs can be poisoned when they bite a toad or otherwise ingest the venom. The venom effects manifest soon after the accident, since the toxin is rapidly absorbed by the mucous membrane of the digestive system. Hospital records of three dogs, diagnosed with toad poisoning, were retrospectively reviewed from January 2005 to July 2007. Poisoned dogs may present only local irritation or systemic signs in the gastrointestinal, cardiac and neurological systems. All three cases presented herein had clinical signs of gastrointestinal alterations including vomiting, sialorrhea and diarrhea. Two dogs developed abnormal cardiac rhythm and two exhibited neurological signs. A poisoned animal requires emergency care and symptomatic therapy with intense monitoring of its clinical parameters. Although there have been reports on the low mortality of dogs poisoned by toads, one animal died even after appropriate therapy. The severity of clinical signs and the risk of death must be considered by the veterinarian.(AU)

Toad poisoning in three dogs: case reports

Toad poisoning is frequent in dogs, but has been infrequently addressed in published case reports and review articles. Dogs can be poisoned when they bite a toad or otherwise ingest the venom. The venom effects manifest soon after the accident, since the toxin is rapidly absorbed by the mucous membrane of the digestive system. Hospital records of three dogs, diagnosed with toad poisoning, were retrospectively reviewed from January 2005 to July 2007. Poisoned dogs may present only local irritation or systemic signs in the gastrointestinal, cardiac and neurological systems. All three cases presented herein had clinical signs of gastrointestinal alterations including vomiting, sialorrhea and diarrhea. Two dogs developed abnormal cardiac rhythm and two exhibited neurological signs. A poisoned animal requires emergency care and symptomatic therapy with intense monitoring of its clinical parameters. Although there have been reports on the low mortality of dogs poisoned by toads, one animal died even after appropriate therapy. The severity of clinical signs and the risk of death must be considered by the veterinarian.