Statistical evaluation of testing conditions on the saturated hydraulic conductivity of Brazilian lateritic soils using artificial intelligence approaches.

The saturated hydraulic conductivity, ksat, is a crucial variable to describe the hydromechanical behavior of soils. The value of ksat of lateritic soils that are typically found in tropical regions is highly affected by the soil's structure, void ratio, and fine particle aggregation. As a result, the determination of ksat in the field or in the laboratory is complex and involves greater variability, depending on the type of test and on the spatial location of sampling. This paper presents a study of ksat values of lateritic soils, analyzing them using Statistic, Multilayer Perceptron Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Decision Trees (CHAID). This study aims to support decision-making regarding the type of test and depth chosen for sampling in laterite soils and understanding the factors influencing the permeability of such soils. An extensive literature review on the ksat values of lateritic soils was performed, providing data for the establishment of a database comprise of 722 registries. According to agronomic and geotechnical soil classifications, the Brazilian lateritic soils presents a "moderate" hydraulic conductivity. A significant variation of permeability values along the depth was identified, particularly for depths between 0.1 and 0.2 m. Regarding the importance of testing variables, the ANN indicated a high dependency on the type of test. The decision tree divided field test and laboratory test automatically, inferring the relevance of the type of test to the determination of ksat.

Telemedicine of patients with cystic fibrosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To describe then experience of implementing routine teleconsultations in respiratory physiotherapy at a reference center for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in Rio de Janeiro / Brazil, during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive, study with children and adolescents with CF. The sample was divided between participants and those who did not participate in the teleconsultations. The teleconsultations were multidisciplinary and carried out by videoconference or telephone, depending on the patient's availability. The sequence of care provided by the team was organized together with the professionals, so that everyone could carry out individual and sequential teleconsultations. Physiotherapy appointments were divided into two segments: teleconsultation and telemonitoring. Demographic and clinical data were collected. RESULTS: Among the 184 patients assisted in the center, 153 (83.2%) participated in the teleservices and, of these, 33 (21.6%) required telemonitoring; 31 (16.8%) patients did not participate in the teleconsultations for not answering the calls. There was no statistical difference between the group that participated or not in teleservices, nor among those who participated in teleconsultations and telemonitoring. The mean age of the studied population was 7.0±0.4 years. Regarding the CFTR gene mutation, 64.7% had at least one F508del allele and 30.9% of the sample had no pathogens in the sputum test. CONCLUSIONS: Most participants with CF participated in teleconsultations, highlighting the importance of remote assistance activities during the COVID-19 pandemic period. This strategy was considered as positive, and it may become permanent in the care of patients with CF.

Acarbose presents in vitro and in vivo antileishmanial activity against Leishmania infantum and is a promising therapeutic candidate against visceral leishmaniasis.

Treatment against visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is mainly hampered by drug toxicity, long treatment regimens and/or high costs. Thus, the identification of novel and low-cost antileishmanial agents is urgent. Acarbose (ACA) is a specific inhibitor of glucosidase-like proteins, which has been used for treating diabetes. In the present study, we show that this molecule also presents in vitro and in vivo specific antileishmanial activity against Leishmania infantum. Results showed an in vitro direct action against L. infantum promastigotes and amastigotes, and low toxicity to mammalian cells. In addition, in vivo experiments performed using free ACA or incorporated in a Pluronic® F127-based polymeric micelle system called ACA/Mic proved effective for the treatment of L. infantum-infected BALB/c mice. Treated animals presented significant reductions in the parasite load in their spleens, livers, bone marrows and draining lymph nodes when compared to the controls, as well as the development of antileishmanial Th1-type humoral and cellular responses based on high levels of IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α, GM-CSF, nitrite and IgG2a isotype antibodies. In addition, ACA or ACA-treated animals suffered from low organ toxicity. Treatment with ACA/Mic outperformed treatments using either Miltefosine or free ACA based on parasitological and immunological evaluations performed one and 15 days post-therapy. In conclusion, data suggest that the ACA/Mic is a potential therapeutic agent against L. infantum and merits further consideration for VL treatment.

In vitro and in vivo antileishmanial activity of ß-acetyl-digitoxin, a cardenolide of Digitalis lanata potentially useful to treat visceral leishmaniasis.

Current treatments of visceral leishmaniasis face limitations due to drug side effects and/or high cost, along with the emergence of parasite resistance. Novel and low-cost antileishmanial agents are therefore required. We report herein the antileishmanial activity of ß-acetyl-digitoxin (b-AD), a cardenolide isolated from Digitalis lanata leaves, assayed in vitro and in vivo against Leishmania infantum. Results showed direct action of b-AD against parasites, as well as efficacy for the treatment of Leishmania-infected macrophages. In vivo experiments using b-AD-containing Pluronic® F127 polymeric micelles (b-AD/Mic) to treat L. infantum-infected mice showed that this composition reduced the parasite load in distinct organs in more significant levels. It also induced the development of anti-parasite Th1-type immunity, attested by high levels of IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α, GM-CSF, nitrite and specific IgG2a antibodies, in addition to low IL-4 and IL-10 contents, along with higher IFN-γ-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell frequency. Furthermore, low toxicity was found in the organs of the treated animals. Comparing the therapeutic effect between the treatments, b-AD/Mic was the most effective in protecting animals against infection, when compared to the other groups including miltefosine used as a drug control. Data found 15 days after treatment were similar to those obtained one day post-therapy. In conclusion, the results obtained suggest that b-AD/Mic is a promising antileishmanial agent and deserves further studies to investigate its potential to treat visceral leishmaniasis.

TITLE: Activité antileishmaniale in vitro et in vivo de la ß-acétyl-digitoxine, un cardénolide de Digitalis lanata potentiellement utile pour traiter la leishmaniose viscérale. ABSTRACT: Les traitements actuels de la leishmaniose viscérale font face à des limitations dues aux effets secondaires des médicaments et/ou à leur coût élevé, ainsi qu'à l'émergence d'une résistance parasitaire. Des agents antileishmaniaux nouveaux et peu coûteux sont donc nécessaires. Nous rapportons ici l'activité antileishmaniale de la ß-acétyl-digitoxine (b-AD), un cardénolide isolé à partir de feuilles de Digitalis lanata, mesurée in vitro et in vivo contre Leishmania infantum. Les résultats ont montré une action directe de la b-AD contre les parasites, ainsi qu'une efficacité pour le traitement des macrophages infectés par Leishmania. Des expériences in vivo utilisant des micelles polymériques Pluronic® F127 contenant de la b-AD (b-AD/Mic) pour traiter des souris infectées par L. infantum ont montré que cette composition réduisait à des niveaux plus significatifs la charge parasitaire dans différents organes, ainsi que le développement d'une immunité antiparasitaire de type Th1, attestée par les taux élevés d'IFN-γ, d'IL-12, de TNF-α, de GM-CSF, de nitrite et d'anticorps IgG2a spécifiques, en plus des faibles taux d'IL-4 et IL-10, ainsi qu'une fréquence plus élevée des cellules T CD4+ and CD8+ productrices d' IFN-γ. De plus, une faible toxicité a été trouvée dans les organes des animaux traités. En comparant l'effet thérapeutique des traitements, b-AD/Mic était le plus efficace pour protéger les animaux contre l'infection, par rapport aux autres groupes comprenant la miltefosine utilisée comme contrôle médicamenteux. Les données trouvées 15 jours après le traitement étaient similaires à celles obtenues un jour après le traitement. En conclusion, les résultats obtenus suggèrent que b-AD/Mic est un agent antileishmanial prometteur et mérite des études supplémentaires pour étudier son potentiel à traiter la leishmaniose viscérale.

Digitoxigenin presents an effective and selective antileishmanial action against Leishmania infantum and is a potential therapeutic agent for visceral leishmaniasis.

Treatment for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is hampered mainly by drug toxicity, their high cost, and parasite resistance. Drug development is a long and pricey process, and therefore, drug repositioning may be an alternative worth pursuing. Cardenolides are used to treat cardiac diseases, especially those obtained from Digitalis species. In the present study, cardenolide digitoxigenin (DIGI) obtained from a methanolic extract of Digitalis lanata leaves was tested for its antileishmanial activity against Leishmania infantum species. Results showed that 50% Leishmania and murine macrophage inhibitory concentrations (IC50 and CC50, respectively) were of 6.9 ± 1.5 and 295.3 ± 14.5 µg/mL, respectively. With amphotericin B (AmpB) deoxycholate, used as a control drug, values of 0.13 ± 0.02 and 0.79 ± 0.12 µg/mL, respectively, were observed. Selectivity index (SI) values were of 42.8 and 6.1 for DIGI and AmpB, respectively. Preliminary studies suggested that the mechanism of action for DIGI is to cause alterations in the mitochondrial membrane potential, to increase the levels of reactive oxygen species and induce accumulation of lipid bodies in the parasites. DIGI was incorporated into Pluronic® F127-based polymeric micelles, and the formula (DIGI/Mic) was used to treat L. infantum-infected mice. Miltefosine was used as a control drug. Results showed that animals treated with either miltefosine, DIGI, or DIGI/Mic presented significant reductions in the parasite load in their spleens, livers, bone marrows, and draining lymph nodes, as well as the development of a specific Th1-type response, when compared with the controls. Results obtained 1 day after treatment were corroborated with data corresponding to 15 days after therapy. Importantly, treatment with DIGI/Mic induced better parasitological and immunological responses when compared with miltefosine- and DIGI-treated mice. In conclusion, DIGI/Mic has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent to protect against L. infantum infection, and it is therefore worth of consideration in future studies addressing VL treatment.

Ivermectin presents effective and selective antileishmanial activity in vitro and in vivo against Leishmania infantum and is therapeutic against visceral leishmaniasis.

Treatment for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is hindered mainly by the toxicity and/or high cost of therapeutic drugs. In addition, parasite resistance has been registered. Thus, there is an urgent need for the identification of novel, effective and low-cost antileishmanial agents. Since drug discovery is a long and expensive process, drug repositioning for treatment of leishmaniasis should be considered. In the present study, Ivermectin (IVE), a broad-spectrum drug used for treatment of parasitic diseases, was evaluated in vitro and in vivo against Leishmania infantum species. Results in vitro showed that IVE presented 50% Leishmania and macrophage inhibitory concentrations (IC50 and CC50, respectively) of 3.64 ± 0.48 µM and 427.50 ± 17.60 µM, respectively, with a selectivity index (SI) of 117.45; whereas Amphotericin B (AmpB), which was used as control, showed IC50 and CC50 values of 0.12 ± 0.05 µM and 1.06 ± 0.23 µM, respectively, with a corresponding SI of 8.90. Treatment with IVE effectively reduced the infection percentage and parasite burden in infected and treated macrophages and displayed a prophylactic activity by inhibiting macrophage infection with pre-treated parasites. Furthermore, preliminary studies suggested that IVE targets the parasite's mitochondria. Activity of IVE in its free format or incorporated into Pluronic® F127-based polymeric micelles (IVE/Mic) was also evaluated in vivo as a treating drug for L. infantum-infected BALB/c mice. Miltefosine was used as a control. Results showed that Miltefosine, IVE and IVE/Mic-treated animals presented significant reductions in the parasite load in their spleens, livers, bone marrows and draining lymph nodes, as well as development of an antileishmanial Th1-type immune response one and 15 days after treatment. Notably, IVE/Mic showed a better parasitological and immunological response in comparison to other alternative treatments. In conclusion, results suggest that IVE/Mic could be considered in future studies as a therapeutic alternative to treat VL.

Characterization of mucosa-associated Escherichia coli strains isolated from Crohn's disease patients in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease (CD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the human intestine. Several studies have demonstrated that the intestinal mucosa of CD patients in Western countries is abnormally colonized by adherent-invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) strains. However, no studies to date have focused on the involvement of such E. coli strains in CD patients in Brazil. Here, we characterized E. coli strains associated with the ileal mucosa of Brazilian CD patients (ileal biopsies from 35 subjects, 24 CD patients and 11 controls). RESULTS: The colonization level of adherent Enterobacteriaceae associated with the ileal mucosa of CD patients was significantly higher than that of the controls. The proportions of E. coli strains belonging to phylogroups B1 and B2 were two-fold higher in strains isolated from CD patients than in those isolated from controls. CD patients in the active phase harbored 10-fold more E. coli belonging to group B2 than CD patients in remission. Only a few E. coli isolates had invasive properties and the ability to survive within macrophages, but 25% of CD patients in Brazil (6/24) harbored at least one E. coli strain belonging to the AIEC pathobiont. However, fimH sequence analysis showed only a few polymorphisms in the FimH adhesin of strains isolated in this study compared to the FimH adhesin of AIEC collections isolated from European patients. CONCLUSIONS: Mucosa-associated E. coli strains colonize the intestinal mucosa of Brazilian CD patients. However, the strains isolated from Brazilian CD patients have probably not yet co-evolved with their hosts and therefore have not fully developed a strong adherent-invasive phenotype. Thus, it will be crucial to follow in the future the emergence and evolution of AIEC pathobionts in the Brazilian population.

HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION AND GASTRIC CANCER PRECURSOR LESIONS: PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN A REFERENCE LABORATORY IN SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection is the most important risk factor for gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia, both considered gastric cancer precursor lesions. Therefore, the investigation of the occurrence of H. pylori infection, precursor lesions and associated factors guides the adoption of specific strategies for the control this type of cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in patients undergoing upper digestive endoscopy, as well as the prevalence of intestinal metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation and their association with H. pylori infection. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed based on reports of gastric endoscopic biopsies performed in a private laboratory affiliated to the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS). Patients were evaluated for age, gender and type of health service. The samples were evaluated for the presence of H. pylori, and also of chronic inflammation, intestinal metaplasia and glandular atrophy. RESULTS: Of a total of 4,604 patients (mean age 51±16.6), 63.9% were female and 63.1% coming from private health care service. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 31.7% (n=1,459), and the percentage of infection was significantly higher in patients from public health service (42.0%) in relation to patients from private health service (25.6%). Among H. pylori (+) patients, a higher percentage of intestinal metaplasia (17.7% vs 13.3%) and glandular atrophy (17.6% vs 6.9%) were observed when compared to those H. pylori (-) (P<0.01). From the patients H. pylori (+) with at least one type of precursor lesion (n=418), 161 (38.5%) had metaplasia and chronic inflammation, 160 (38.3%) had atrophy and chronic inflammation and finally 97 (23.2%) presented metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation simultaneously. CONCLUSION: The present study reinforces the association of H. pylori infection with gastric cancer precursor lesions in a Brazilian population, emphasizing the importance of infection prevention measures, as well as the treatment of infected patients, especially in regions with lower socioeconomic levels that show a higher prevalence of infection by H. pylori.

Infecção por Helicobacter pylori e lesões precursoras de câncer gástrico: prevalência e fatores associados em um laboratório de referência no Sudeste do Brasil / Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric cancer precursor lesions: prevalence and associated factors in a reference laboratory in southeastern brazil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection is the most important risk factor for gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia, both considered gastric cancer precursor lesions. Therefore, the investigation of the occurrence of H. pylori infection, precursor lesions and associated factors guides the adoption of specific strategies for the control this type of cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in patients undergoing upper digestive endoscopy, as well as the prevalence of intestinal metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation and their association with H. pylori infection. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed based on reports of gastric endoscopic biopsies performed in a private laboratory affiliated to the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS). Patients were evaluated for age, gender and type of health service. The samples were evaluated for the presence of H. pylori, and also of chronic inflammation, intestinal metaplasia and glandular atrophy. RESULTS: Of a total of 4,604 patients (mean age 51±16.6), 63.9% were female and 63.1% coming from private health care service. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 31.7% (n=1,459), and the percentage of infection was significantly higher in patients from public health service (42.0%) in relation to patients from private health service (25.6%). Among H. pylori (+) patients, a higher percentage of intestinal metaplasia (17.7% vs 13.3%) and glandular atrophy (17.6% vs 6.9%) were observed when compared to those H. pylori (-) (P<0.01). From the patients H. pylori (+) with at least one type of precursor lesion (n=418), 161 (38.5%) had metaplasia and chronic inflammation, 160 (38.3%) had atrophy and chronic inflammation and finally 97 (23.2%) presented metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation simultaneously. CONCLUSION: The present study reinforces the association of H. pylori infection with gastric cancer precursor lesions in a Brazilian population, emphasizing the importance of infection prevention measures, as well as the treatment of infected patients, especially in regions with lower socioeconomic levels that show a higher prevalence of infection by H. pylori.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A infecção por Helicobacter pylori é o fator de risco mais importante para atrofia gástrica e metaplasia intestinal, ambas consideradas lesões precursoras do câncer gástrico. Portanto, a investigação da ocorrência de infecção por H. pylori, das lesões precursoras e dos fatores associados orienta a adoção de estratégias específicas para o controle deste tipo de câncer. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de infecção por H. pylori em pacientes submetidos à endoscopia digestiva alta, bem como a prevalência de metaplasia intestinal, atrofia e inflamação crônica e a associação destas com a infecção por H. pylori. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo com base em laudos de biópsias endoscópicas gástricas realizadas em laboratório privado afiliado ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à idade, sexo e tipo de serviço de saúde. As amostras foram avaliadas quanto à presença de H. pylori e também de inflamação crônica, metaplasia intestinal e atrofia glandular. RESULTADOS: Do total de 4.604 pacientes (idade média de 51±16,6), 63,9% eram do sexo feminino e 63,1% provenientes de serviços de saúde privado. A prevalência de infecção por H. pylori foi de 31,7% (n=1.459) e o percentual de infecção foi significativamente maior nos pacientes do serviço público de saúde (42,0%) em relação aos pacientes do serviço privado de saúde (25,6%). Entre os pacientes com H. pylori (+), foi observado maior percentual de metaplasia intestinal (17,7% vs 13,3%) e atrofia glandular (17,6% vs 6,9%) quando comparados aos H. pylori (-) (P<0,01). Dos pacientes H. pylori (+) com pelo menos um tipo de lesão precursora (n=418), 161 (38,5%) apresentaram metaplasia e inflamação crônica, 160 (38,3%) apresentaram atrofia e inflamação crônica e, finalmente, 97 (23,2%) apresentaram metaplasia, atrofia e inflamação crônica simultaneamente. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo reforça a associação da infecção por H. pylori com lesões precursoras de câncer gástrico em uma população brasileira, enfatizando a importância de medidas de prevenção de infecção, bem como o tratamento de pacientes infectados, principalmente em regiões com níveis socioeconômicos mais baixos que apresentam maior prevalência de infecção por H. pylori.

The Burden of Helminth Coinfections and Micronutrient Deficiencies in Patients with and without Leprosy Reactions: A Pilot Study in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Leprosy reactions are immune-mediated complications occurring in up to 50% of patients. The immune consequences of helminth infections and micronutrient deficiencies suggest a potential role in type 1 reactions (T1R) or type 2 reactions (T2R). We conducted a case-control study in Minas Gerais, Brazil, to evaluate whether comorbidities and other factors are associated with reactions in patients with multibacillary leprosy. Stool and serum were tested for helminth infections. Deficiencies of vitamin A, D, and iron were measured using serum retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and ferritin, respectively. Logistic regression models identified associations between reactions and helminth infections, micronutrient deficiencies, and other variables. Seventy-three patients were enrolled, 24 (33%) with T1R, 21 (29%) with T2R, 8 (15%) with mixed T1R/T2R, and 20 (27%) without reactions. Evidence of helminth infections were found in 11 participants (15%) and included IgG4 reactivity against Schistosoma mansoni, Strongyloides, and Ascaris antigens. Thirty-eight (52%) had vitamin D deficiency, eight (11%) had vitamin A insufficiency, 21 (29%) had anemia, and one (1.4%) had iron deficiency. Multivariable logistic regression showed no statistically significant associations between helminth coinfections and total reactions (adjusted odds ratios [aOR]: 1.36, 95% CI: 0.22, 8.33), T1R (aOR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.17, 4.17), or T2R (aOR: 2.41, 95% CI: 0.29, 20.0). Vitamin D deficiency and vitamin A insufficiency were also not statistically associated with reactions. However, vitamin deficiencies and helminth infections were prevalent in these patients, suggesting a potential role for additional treatment interventions. Studying reactions prospectively may further clarify the role of comorbidities in the clinical presentation of leprosy.

Variables de la sangre en hybrido tambacu cultivado en el estado de Amapá, norte de Brasil / Blood variables of hybrid tambacu farmed In Amapá State, Northern Brazil / Variáveis sanguíneas do híbrido tambacu cultivado no estado do Amapá, norte do Brasil

Este estudio comparó las características de la sangre de híbrido tambacu (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) tres criaderos piscícolas en Macapá, Estado de Amapá (Brasil), con gestiones similares. No se observaron diferencias en los niveles de oxígeno y pH del agua de los estanques en los criaderos piscícolas, pero el factor de condición mostró buenas condiciones corporales en los peces. En la sangre de los tambacus fueron identificados trombocitos, linfocitos, monocitos, neutrofilos, leucocitos granulares PASpositivos (LG-PAS) y eosinofilos. Los niveles de glucosa y proteínas, hematocrito, recuento de leucocitos totales, el recuento total de trombocitos, monocitos, neutrófilos y eosinofilos fueron similares entre peces de los criaderos piscícolas. Sin embargo, la concentración de hemoglobina, recuento de eritrocitos, concentración de hemoglobina corpuscular media (CHCM), volumen corpuscular medio (VCM), el número de linfocitos y LG-PAS mostraron diferencias entre los peces de loscriaderos piscícolas. Aunque los resultados mostraron relativa similitud entre los parámetros de lo sangre de peces de los criaderos piscícolas, pero o manejo de las condiciones de la calidad del agua del estanque y la comida siempre debe mejorarse para aumentar la productividad en estas criaderos piscícolas.

This study compared the blood characteristics of hybrid tambacu (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) from three fish farms in the Macapá, State of Amapa (Brazil), which has a similar management. There were differences in the levels of dissolved oxygen in the water and pH in the ponds of the fish farms, but condition factor showed good body condition of the fish. In blood of tambacu were identified thrombocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, PAS-positive granular leukocytes (PAS-GL) and eosinophils. Plasma glucose and protein levels, hematocrit, total leucocyte count, total thrombocytes count, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils count were similar among the three fish farms. However, hemoglobin concentration, total erythrocytes count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), number of lymphocytes and PASGLshowed differences among fish of these fish farms. Although the results showed a relative similarity between the blood parameters in the fish of the different fish farms, but the management conditions regarding the water quality in the ponds and food should be improved to increase the productivity in these fish farms.

Este estudo comparou as características sanguíneas do híbrido tambacu(Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus)de três pisciculturas de Macapá, Estado do Amapá (Brasil), com manejos semelhantes. Diferenças nos níveis de oxigênio dissolvido e do pH da água dos viveiros foram observadas, mas o fator de condição mostrou a boa condição dos peixes. No sangue dos tambacus foram identificados trombócitos, linfócitos, monócitos, neutrófilos, leucócitos granulares PAS-positivo (LG-PAS) e eosinófilos. Os níveis de glicose e proteína, hematócrito, contagem total de leucócitos, contagem total de trombócitos, contagem de monócitos, neutrófilos e eosinófilos foram similares entre as três pisciculturas. Entretanto, a concentração de hemoglobina, contagem de eritrócitos, da concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM), volume corpuscular médio (VCM), número de linfócitos e LG-PAS mostraram diferenças entre os peixes destas pisciculturas. Embora, os resultados mostraram relativa similaridade entre os parâmetros sanguíneos dos peixes das pisciculturas, mas condições de manejo, relativo à qualidade da água dos viveiros e à alimentação fornecida, devem ser melhoradas para aumentar a produtividade nestas pisciculturas.

Variables de la sangre en hybrido tambacu cultivado en el estado de Amapá, norte de Brasil / Blood variables of hybrid tambacu farmed In Amapá State, Northern Brazil / Variáveis sanguíneas do híbrido tambacu cultivado no estado do Amapá, norte do Brasil

Este estudio comparó las características de la sangre de híbrido tambacu (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) tres criaderos piscícolas en Macapá, Estado de Amapá (Brasil), con gestiones similares. No se observaron diferencias en los niveles de oxígeno y pH del agua de los estanques en los criaderos piscícolas, pero el factor de condición mostró buenas condiciones corporales en los peces. En la sangre de los tambacus fueron identificados trombocitos, linfocitos, monocitos, neutrofilos, leucocitos granulares PASpositivos (LG-PAS) y eosinofilos. Los niveles de glucosa y proteínas, hematocrito, recuento de leucocitos totales, el recuento total de trombocitos, monocitos, neutrófilos y eosinofilos fueron similares entre peces de los criaderos piscícolas. Sin embargo, la concentración de hemoglobina, recuento de eritrocitos, concentración de hemoglobina corpuscular media (CHCM), volumen corpuscular medio (VCM), el número de linfocitos y LG-PAS mostraron diferencias entre los peces de loscriaderos piscícolas. Aunque los resultados mostraron relativa similitud entre los parámetros de lo sangre de peces de los criaderos piscícolas, pero o manejo de las condiciones de la calidad del agua del estanque y la comida siempre debe mejorarse para aumentar la productividad en estas criaderos piscícolas.(AU)

This study compared the blood characteristics of hybrid tambacu (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) from three fish farms in the Macapá, State of Amapa (Brazil), which has a similar management. There were differences in the levels of dissolved oxygen in the water and pH in the ponds of the fish farms, but condition factor showed good body condition of the fish. In blood of tambacu were identified thrombocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, PAS-positive granular leukocytes (PAS-GL) and eosinophils. Plasma glucose and protein levels, hematocrit, total leucocyte count, total thrombocytes count, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils count were similar among the three fish farms. However, hemoglobin concentration, total erythrocytes count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), number of lymphocytes and PASGLshowed differences among fish of these fish farms. Although the results showed a relative similarity between the blood parameters in the fish of the different fish farms, but the management conditions regarding the water quality in the ponds and food should be improved to increase the productivity in these fish farms.(AU)

Este estudo comparou as características sanguíneas do híbrido tambacu(Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus)de três pisciculturas de Macapá, Estado do Amapá (Brasil), com manejos semelhantes. Diferenças nos níveis de oxigênio dissolvido e do pH da água dos viveiros foram observadas, mas o fator de condição mostrou a boa condição dos peixes. No sangue dos tambacus foram identificados trombócitos, linfócitos, monócitos, neutrófilos, leucócitos granulares PAS-positivo (LG-PAS) e eosinófilos. Os níveis de glicose e proteína, hematócrito, contagem total de leucócitos, contagem total de trombócitos, contagem de monócitos, neutrófilos e eosinófilos foram similares entre as três pisciculturas. Entretanto, a concentração de hemoglobina, contagem de eritrócitos, da concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM), volume corpuscular médio (VCM), número de linfócitos e LG-PAS mostraram diferenças entre os peixes destas pisciculturas. Embora, os resultados mostraram relativa similaridade entre os parâmetros sanguíneos dos peixes das pisciculturas, mas condições de manejo, relativo à qualidade da água dos viveiros e à alimentação fornecida, devem ser melhoradas para aumentar a produtividade nestas pisciculturas.(AU)

VARIABLES DE LA SANGRE EN HYBRIDO TAMBACU CULTIVADO EN EL ESTADO DE AMAPÁ, NORTE DE BRASIL / Blood variables of hybrid tambacu farmed in Amapá state, Northern Brazil / VARIÁVEIS SANGUÍNEAS DO HÍBRIDO TAMBACU CULTIVADO NO ESTADO DO AMAPÁ, NORTE DO BRASIL

Este estudio comparó las características de la sangre de híbrido tambacu (Colossomamacropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) tres criaderos piscícolas en Macapá, Estado deAmapá (Brasil), con gestiones similares. No se observaron diferencias en los niveles deoxígeno y pH del agua de los estanques en los criaderos piscícolas, pero el factor de condiciónmostró buenas condiciones corporales en los peces. En la sangre de los tambacus fueronidentificados trombocitos, linfocitos, monocitos, neutrofilos, leucocitos granulares PASpositivos (LG-PAS) y eosinofilos. Los niveles de glucosa y proteínas, hematocrito, recuentode leucocitos totales, el recuento total de trombocitos, monocitos, neutrófilos y eosinofilosfueron similares entre peces de los criaderos piscícolas. Sin embargo, la concentración dehemoglobina, recuento de eritrocitos, concentración de hemoglobina corpuscular media(CHCM), volumen corpuscular medio (VCM), el número de linfocitos y LG-PAS mostrarondiferencias entre los peces de loscriaderos piscícolas. Aunque los resultados mostraronrelativa similitud entre los parámetros de lo sangre de peces de los criaderos piscícolas, pero omanejo de las condiciones de la calidad del agua del estanque y la comida siempre debemejorarse para aumentar la productividad en estas criaderos piscícolas.

This study compared the blood characteristics of hybrid tambacu (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) from three fish farms in the Macapá, State of Amapa (Brazil), which has a similar management. There were differences in the levels of dissolved oxygen in the water and pH in the ponds of the fish farms, but condition factor showed good body condition of the fish. In blood of tambacu were identified thrombocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, PAS-positive granular leukocytes (PAS-GL) and eosinophils. Plasma glucose and protein levels, hematocrit, total leucocyte count, total thrombocytes count, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils count were similar among the three fish farms. However, hemoglobin concentration, total erythrocytes count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), number of lymphocytes and PAS-GL showed differences among fish of these fish farms. Although the results showed a relative similarity between the blood parameters in the fish of the different fish farms, but the management conditions regarding the water quality in the ponds and food should be improved to increase the productivity in these fish farms.

Este estudo comparou as características sanguíneas do híbrido tambacu(Colossomamacropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus)de três pisciculturas de Macapá, Estado do Amapá(Brasil), com manejos semelhantes. Diferenças nos níveis de oxigênio dissolvido e do pH daágua dos viveiros foram observadas, mas o fator de condição mostrou a boa condição dospeixes. No sangue dos tambacus foram identificados trombócitos, linfócitos, monócitos,neutrófilos, leucócitos granulares PAS-positivo (LG-PAS) e eosinófilos. Os níveis de glicosee proteína, hematócrito, contagem total de leucócitos, contagem total de trombócitos,contagem de monócitos, neutrófilos e eosinófilos foram similares entre as três pisciculturas.Entretanto, a concentração de hemoglobina, contagem de eritrócitos, da concentração dehemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM), volume corpuscular médio (VCM), número delinfócitos e LG-PAS mostraram diferenças entre os peixes destas pisciculturas. Embora, osresultados mostraram relativa similaridade entre os parâmetros sanguíneos dos peixes daspisciculturas, mas condições de manejo, relativo à qualidade da água dos viveiros e àalimentação fornecida, devem ser melhoradas para aumentar a produtividade nestaspisciculturas.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of Helicobacter pylori dupA that lead to premature stop codons.

BACKGROUND: The detection of the putative disease-specific Helicobacter pylori marker duodenal ulcer promoting gene A (dupA) is currently based on PCR detection of jhp0917 and jhp0918 that form the gene. However, mutations that lead to premature stop codons that split off the dupA leading to truncated products cannot be evaluated by PCR. METHODS: We directly sequence the complete dupA of 75 dupA-positive strains of H. pylori isolated from patients with gastritis (n = 26), duodenal ulcer (n = 29), and gastric carcinoma (n = 20), to search for frame-shifting mutations that lead to stop codon. RESULTS: Thirty-four strains had single nucleotide mutations in dupA that lead to premature stop codon creating smaller products than the predicted 1839 bp product and, for this reason, were considered as dupA-negative. Intact dupA was more frequently observed in strains isolated from duodenal ulcer patients (65.5%) than in patients with gastritis only (46.2%) or with gastric carcinoma (50%). In logistic analysis, the presence of the intact dupA independently associated with duodenal ulcer (OR = 5.06; 95% CI = 1.22-20.96, p = .02). CONCLUSION: We propose the primer walking methodology as a simple technique to sequence the gene. When we considered as dupA-positive only those strains that carry dupA gene without premature stop codons, the gene was associated with duodenal ulcer and, therefore, can be used as a marker for this disease in our population.