Comprehensive portrait of stroke fellowship training in Brazil: A national survey study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The field of vascular neurology has undergone significant advances over the last decade, and care has become more complex. However, vascular neurology training programs remain underdeveloped in many countries, despite stroke impact on health care. There are efforts towards building a nationally regulated curricula in some countries. Still, comprehensive planning and implementation of these programs may be needed on a global scale, especially in countries where stroke treatment is not fully implemented. We aim to comprehensively analyze vascular neurology trainees' profiles in Brazil to describe training program contents from trainees and program directors' perspectives. METHODS: We performed an observational, cross-sectional, web-based survey study to describe trainee and program-specific characteristics at vascular neurology fellowship training programs in Brazil. The study was conducted from June to September 2023 using a secure web-based survey sent to active fellows and program directors from all known vascular neurology fellowship programs in the country. All respondents were required to provide informed consent. RESULTS: We obtained a 100 % response rate of a total of 12 programs distributed in 7 federal states. Notably, 57 % of the 28 surveyed fellows were women, 60 % were aged 25-30, and 70 % self-identified as White. All fellows had prior neurology training, and 60 % engaged in the program just following residency. Exposure to various training experiences was favorable, except for simulation-based learning and telestroke training. Program directors perceived exposure to be sufficient for most components but similarly found deficiencies in telestroke and simulation-based learning. Scientific productivity was low, with about two-thirds of fellows having no publications or abstracts. Most fellows (92.6 %) reported performing non-fellowship medical activities to supplement their incomes. DISCUSSION: In conclusion, the number of vascular neurology training programs and trainees in Brazil is currently insufficient and exhibits an uneven geographic distribution. Despite this, the clinical training provided is extensive, and there is generally some funding available for fellows. These insights highlight the need for strategic improvements in Brazil's stroke education and could inform similar developments in other nations.

Absence of aluminium compromises root integrity, reduces leaf hydration and Rubisco performance in Qualea grandiflora, an Al-accumulating species.

Aluminium (Al) is toxic to most plants. Nevertheless, some species accumulate Al without showing toxicity symptoms. Previous studies have evidenced Al in chloroplasts of Al-accumulating species from the Cerrado vegetation in South America. We ask whether Al increases carbon assimilation through enhanced apparent efficiency of Rubisco. Seedlings of the Al-accumulator Qualea grandiflora (Vochysiaceae) were grown in nutrient solution with 0, 740, and 1480 µm Al. Growth parameters, relative leaf water content, Al concentration in organs, gas exchange and apparent carboxylation efficiency (measured from A/Ci curves) were evaluated for 60 days. Plants without Al showed no root growth, necrotic roots, low gas exchange rates, and decreased apparent carboxylation efficiency. Al-treated plants, however, showed new white roots and increased root biomass leading to higher leaf hydration, and apparent carboxylation efficiency was higher in these plants. Increased Al available in the nutrient solution increased Al accumulation in plant organs. Absence of Al compromised root integrity in Q. grandiflora, thus limiting leaf hydration. No positive direct effect of Al on Rubisco was evidenced in Al-treated plants.

Anatomical inferences on aerial bud protection of three Eugenia shrub species from the Cerrado.

Location and degree of protection of aerial buds are important functional traits in disturbance- or stress-prone environments since aerial buds ensure the development of new organs under favourable growing conditions. This study was carried out in a Brazilian Cerrado area under regeneration after long-term Pinus cultivation, where the trees were clear-cut in 2012 and the remaining material was burned in 2014. After the fire treatment, several species resprouted from belowground organs and their aboveground organs were directly exposed to full sunlight. We collected 15 terminal branches with fully expanded leaves from three individuals of each of three Eugenia species to investigate if those with well-developed belowground organs invest in bark for aboveground bud protection. The samples were analysed using light and electron microscopy. In addition to terminal and axillary buds, all species presented accessory buds, and the number varied according to the node analysed. None of the aerial buds were protected by bark, but all were well protected by cataphylls and densely pubescent leaf primordia. There were also inter- and intra-petiolar colleters that released a mucilaginous protein exudate. The distance between the shoot apical meristem and the outer surface was longer in the terminal bud than in axillary buds. The bud leaf primordia covering the shoot apical meristem had a thick cuticle, unicellular non-glandular trichomes that accumulate phenolic and lipophilic compounds, and secretory cavities. Our study shows that all three Eugenia species studied here had highly protected aerial buds allocated from belowground organs. These morphological traits may improve the chances of the species' persistence in areas subjected to frost events, low relative humidity, high irradiance and harmful UV levels.

Zymosan enhances in vitro phagocyte function and the immune response of mice infected with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis.

Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is the major etiologic agent of Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), the most frequent human deep mycosis in Latin America. It is proposed that masking of ß-glucan in P. brasiliensis cell wall is a critical virulence factor that contributes to the development of a chronic disease characterized by a long period of treatment, which is usually toxic. In this context, the search for immunomodulatory agents for therapeutic purposes is highly desirable. One strategy is to use pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) ligands to stimulate the immune response mediated by phagocytes. Here, we sought to evaluate if Zymosan, a ß-glucan-containing ligand of the PRRs Dectin-1/TLR-2, would enhance phagocyte function and the immune response of mice challenged with P. brasiliensis. Dendritic cells (DCs) infected with P. brasiliensis and treated with Zymosan showed improved secretion of several proinflammatory cytokines and expression of maturation markers. In addition, when cocultured with splenic lymphocytes, these cells induced the production of a potential protective type 1 and 17 cytokine patterns. In macrophages, Zymosan ensued a significant fungicidal activity associated with nitric oxide production and phagolysosome acidification. Importantly, we observed a protective effect of Zymosan-primed DCs delivered intranasally in experimental pulmonary PCM. Overall, our findings support the potential use of ß-glucan-containing compounds such as Zymosan as an alternative or complementary antifungal therapy. LAY SUMMARY: We report for the first time that Paracoccidioides brasiliensis-infected phagocytes treated with Zymosan (cell wall extract from bakers' yeast) show enhanced cytokine production, maturation, and fungal killing. Also, Zymosan-primed phagocytes induce a protective immune response in infected mice.

Origin of the cultivated passion fruit Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa and genomic relationships among species of the subgenera Decaloba and Passiflora.

Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa is the most economically important species in the genus Passiflora. However, the origin of this yellow form of passion fruit remains unclear, being suggested as a hybrid (P. edulis f. edulis × P. ligularis) or wild mutant. Here, the origin and genomic relationships of P. edulis f. flavicarpa with some related species in the genus Passiflora (subgenera Decaloba and Passiflora) were investigated using genomic in situ hybridization (GISH). Genomic DNA of 18 species was used as probe, which was hybridized onto chromosomes of P. edulis f. flavicarpa. Of all genomic DNA probes tested, none allowed us to identify a specific chromosome set in P. edulis f. flavicarpa. Conversely, probes from the subgenus Passiflora, P. edulis f. edulis, P. alata, P. cincinnata, P. coccinea, P. nitida and P. vitifolia, produced intense and uniform hybridizations on all chromosomes of P. edulis f. flavicarpa. Moreover, probes from P. ligularis, P. foetida and P. sublanceolata produced more intense hybridizations in the terminal region of four chromosomes, corresponding to the DNAr 45S locus, and also dispersed, less intense, hybridization across all chromosomes. Probes from the subgenus Decaloba, P. biflora, P. capsularis, P. cervii, P. coriacea, P. micropetala, P. morifolia, P. rubra and P. suberosa, produced hybridizations restricted to the DNAr 45S sites. The hybrid origin of P. edulis f. flavicarpa could not be supported based on the GISH results, and it is suggested that this species is conspecific with P. edulis f. edulis, because the probe with DNA of this form hybridized strongly throughout the target genome. The other putative parent species, P. ligularis, showed only a distant relationship with the target genome. The results also suggest that species of the subgenus Passiflora share many repetitive sequences and that the relationship between subgenera Decaloba and Passiflora is very distant.

Riparian forest fragments in rice fields under different management: differences on hymenopteran parasitoids diversity / Fragmentos de floresta riparia em áreas de cultivo de arroz sob diferentes manejos: diferenças através diversidade de himenópteros parasitoides

Hymenopteran parasitoids are important biological control agents in agroecosystems, and their diversity can be increased with habitat heterogeneity. Thus, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the influence of distance of rice-growing areas from natural fragment, type of crop management (organic and conventional) and crop stages (vegetative and reproductive stages) on parasitoids family diversity. The work took place in two irrigated rice crops, one with organic management (O.M.) and another one with conventional management (C.M.), in the municipality of Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brazil, during the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. The parasitoids were collected with Malaise trap arranged at different distances in relation to the native vegetation surrounding the rice crop in both places. Specimens were collected twice a month from seeding until the rice harvest. Average abundance between management, distances and rice development were compared. The most abundant families were Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae and Trichogrammatidae. Parasitoid average abundance was significantly higher on OM only in the second season. There was a negative correlation between distance from native vegetation and parasitoid abundance in C.M. areas. There were differences in the composition of the parasitoid assembly between the phenological stages of rice.(AU)

Os himenópteros parasitoides são importantes agentes de controle biológico em agroecossistemas com sua diversidade variando de acordo com a heterogeneidade de habitat. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da distância de áreas com fragmentos de vegetação natural das áreas de cultivo de arroz, o tipo de manejo (orgânico ou convencional) e os estágios da cultura (vegetativo e reprodutivo) na diversidade de famílias de parasitoides. O trabalho foi conduzido em duas áreas com plantio de arroz irrigado, uma com manejo orgânico (MO) e outra com manejo convencional (CM), no município de Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brasil, durante a safra 2013/2014 e 2014/2015. Os parasitoides foram coletados com armadilha Malaise colocadas sob diferentes distâncias em relação a vegetação nativa circundante ao cultivo em ambas as áreas. Os espécimes foram coletados duas vezes ao mês da semeadura até a colheita. Foram comparadas a abundância média entre os manejos, distâncias e estágio de desenvolvimento do arroz. As famílias mais abundantes foram Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae e Trichogrammatidae com suas abundâncias variando ao longo da safra. A abundância média de parasitoides foi significativamente maior no MO somente na segunda safra. Houve uma correlação negativa entre a distância da vegetação nativa e a abundância de parasitoides. Houve diferença na composição da assembleia de parasitoides entre os estágios fenológicos do arroz.(AU)

Riparian forest fragments in rice fields under different management: differences on hymenopteran parasitoids diversity / Fragmentos de floresta riparia em áreas de cultivo de arroz sob diferentes manejos: diferenças através diversidade de himenópteros parasitoides

Abstract Hymenopteran parasitoids are important biological control agents in agroecosystems, and their diversity can be increased with habitat heterogeneity. Thus, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the influence of distance of rice-growing areas from natural fragment, type of crop management (organic and conventional) and crop stages (vegetative and reproductive stages) on parasitoids family diversity. The work took place in two irrigated rice crops, one with organic management (O.M.) and another one with conventional management (C.M.), in the municipality of Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brazil, during the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. The parasitoids were collected with Malaise trap arranged at different distances in relation to the native vegetation surrounding the rice crop in both places. Specimens were collected twice a month from seeding until the rice harvest. Average abundance between management, distances and rice development were compared. The most abundant families were Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae and Trichogrammatidae. Parasitoid average abundance was significantly higher on OM only in the second season. There was a negative correlation between distance from native vegetation and parasitoid abundance in C.M. areas. There were differences in the composition of the parasitoid assembly between the phenological stages of rice.

Resumo Os himenópteros parasitoides são importantes agentes de controle biológico em agroecossistemas com sua diversidade variando de acordo com a heterogeneidade de habitat. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da distância de áreas com fragmentos de vegetação natural das áreas de cultivo de arroz, o tipo de manejo (orgânico ou convencional) e os estágios da cultura (vegetativo e reprodutivo) na diversidade de famílias de parasitoides. O trabalho foi conduzido em duas áreas com plantio de arroz irrigado, uma com manejo orgânico (MO) e outra com manejo convencional (CM), no município de Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brasil, durante a safra 2013/2014 e 2014/2015. Os parasitoides foram coletados com armadilha Malaise colocadas sob diferentes distâncias em relação a vegetação nativa circundante ao cultivo em ambas as áreas. Os espécimes foram coletados duas vezes ao mês da semeadura até a colheita. Foram comparadas a abundância média entre os manejos, distâncias e estágio de desenvolvimento do arroz. As famílias mais abundantes foram Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae e Trichogrammatidae com suas abundâncias variando ao longo da safra. A abundância média de parasitoides foi significativamente maior no MO somente na segunda safra. Houve uma correlação negativa entre a distância da vegetação nativa e a abundância de parasitoides. Houve diferença na composição da assembleia de parasitoides entre os estágios fenológicos do arroz.

Riparian forest fragments in rice fields under different management: differences on hymenopteran parasitoids diversity.

Hymenopteran parasitoids are important biological control agents in agroecosystems, and their diversity can be increased with habitat heterogeneity. Thus, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the influence of distance of rice-growing areas from natural fragment, type of crop management (organic and conventional) and crop stages (vegetative and reproductive stages) on parasitoids family diversity. The work took place in two irrigated rice crops, one with organic management (O.M.) and another one with conventional management (C.M.), in the municipality of Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brazil, during the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. The parasitoids were collected with Malaise trap arranged at different distances in relation to the native vegetation surrounding the rice crop in both places. Specimens were collected twice a month from seeding until the rice harvest. Average abundance between management, distances and rice development were compared. The most abundant families were Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae and Trichogrammatidae. Parasitoid average abundance was significantly higher on OM only in the second season. There was a negative correlation between distance from native vegetation and parasitoid abundance in C.M. areas. There were differences in the composition of the parasitoid assembly between the phenological stages of rice.

Eficácia in vitro do spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) / In vitro effectiveness of spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Com a expansão avícola industrial, Alphitobius diaperinus tem se apresentado mundialmente como uma das principais pragas da avicultura moderna. Destacam-se inúmeros prejuízos, entre eles, redução no ganho de peso e veiculação de agentes potencialmente patogênicos entre as aves. Medidas de controle sanitário envolvendo o manejo correto do substrato utilizado como cama para as aves e tratamento das instalações têm sido pesquisadas e aplicadas. Em busca de novas alternativas para o controle de A. diaperinus, avaliou-se, neste estudo, a ação do Spinosad produto da síntese da fermentação aeróbica de um fungo actinomiceto presente no solo, Sacharopolyspora spinosa. Para tanto, dois experimentos “in vitro” foram conduzidos, o primeiro utilizando-se tratamento direto dos coleópteros em placas de petri e o segundo, em condições simuladas de “cama de aves” utilizando-se a casca de arroz. Os estudos em placas de petri revelaram percentuais de eficácia de 99,67% e 99,33% no controle de adultos 24º dias após tratamento (DPT), bem como 97,0% e 96,0% no controle de larvas (24ºDPT), respectivamente para o tratamento com Spinosad nas concentrações de 400ppm e 250ppm. A aplicação do 250 ppm Spinosad na casca de arroz resultou em percentuais de eficácia superiores (74,39%, 76,92% e 77,82% nos 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT e 30ºDPT, respectivamente) quando comparados ao tratamento com 400ppm (68,51%, 68,18% e 70,55% nos 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT e 30ºDPT, respectivamente), apesar de não ter sido observada diferença estatística significativa entre estes achados (P>0,05). Portanto, verificou-se neste estudo que o Spinosad, nas concentrações de 400ppm e 250ppm, via spray, mostrou-se eficaz tanto aplicado diretamente sobre A. diaperinus (adultos e larvas) ou quando dispersados em casca de arroz parasitada.(AU)

With the expansion of industrial poultry, Alphitobius diaperinus represents one of the main pests of modern for poultry production in the world. Numerous losses stand out, such as: reduction in weight gain and transmission of pathogens among birds.. Sanitary control measures with correct handling of the substrate used as litter and treatment of facilities have been researched and applied. In search of a new alternative for the control of A. diaperinus, in this study, the action of Spinosad, synthesis of the aerobic fermentation of an actinomycete fungus present in the soil, Sacharopolyspora spinosa, was evaluated. For this purpose, two "in vitro" experiments were conducted, the first using direct treatment of the coleoptera in petri dishes and the second, under simulated conditions of "poultry litter" using the rice husk. Petri dish studies revealed 99.67% and 99.33% efficacy percentages for adult control (24DPT), as well as 97.0% and 96.0% for larvae control (24º Days post-treatment- DPT) respectively for treatment with Spinosad in concentrations of 400ppm and 250ppm. The application of 250 ppm Spinosad in the rice husk resulted in higher efficacy percentages (74.39%, 76.92% and 77.82% in the 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT and 30ºDPT, respectively) when compared to the 400ppm treatment (68.51 %, 68.18% and 70.55% in the 16th PDT, 23rd PDT and 30th PDT, respectively), although no statistically significant difference was observed between these findings (P> 0.05). Therefore,it was observed that Spinosad in concentrations of 400ppm and 250ppm, via spray, showed efficacy when applied directly on A. diaperinus (adults and larvae) or dispersed in parasitized rice husks.(AU)

Atividade inseticida do Spinosad sobre Alphitobius diaperinus em fezes de poedeiras comerciais naturalmente infestadas / Insecticidal activity of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus in naturally infested excrements of commercial hens

Objetivou-se neste ensaio experimental avaliar a eficácia do Spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus desenvolvendo-se em fezes de galinhas poedeiras de ovos comerciais. Foi avaliada a presença de adultos e larvas de A. diaperinus, presentes no esterco localizado sob as gaiolas, nos dias 2 e 1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 e 61 pós-tratamento. O Spinosad, na concentração de 250ppm, quando aplicado na dose de 0,126L/m2 mostrou-se ineficaz contra cascudinhos. As doses de 0,252L/m2 e de 0,504L/m2 (400ppm) mostraram-se igualmente eficazes contra adultos de cascudinhos até o 6ºDPT, atingindo percentuais de eficácia de 91,30% e 90,15%. Contra larvas de A. diaperinus, as diluições de 0,126L/m2 e de 0,252 L/m2 (Spinosad 400ppm) foram eficazes, respectivamente, até o 19ºDPT (96,71%) e 33ºDPT (85,70%). Período mais prolongado de eficácia contra A. diaperinus foi observado com Spinosad a 400ppm, na dose de 0,504L/m2: 19DPT (89,55%) para adultos e 54DPT (92,72%) para larvas, demonstrando o período ativo deste tratamento, confirmando a hipótese de que o Spinosad apresenta potencial inseticida para controle de infestações de A. diaperinus infestando em fezes de poedeiras comerciais, representando uma alternativa para programas sanitários avícolas que utilizem a rotação de princípios ativos como forma de mitigar a seleção de resistência nas populações do coleóptero.(AU)

The objective of this experimental trial was to evaluate the efficacy of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus developing in feces from laying hens of commercial eggs. The presence of adults and larvae of A. diaperinus, present in the manure located under the cages, on days –2 and –1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 and 61 was evaluated after treatment. Spinosad, at a concentration of 250ppm, when applied at a dose of 0.126L / m2 was shown to be ineffective against “lesser mealworm”. The doses of 0.252L / m2 and 0.504L / m2 (400ppm) proved to be equally effective against adults of strawberries up to the 6th PDT, reaching efficacy percentages of 91.30% and 90.15%. Against A. diaperinus larvae, the dilutions of 0.126 L / m2 and 0.252 L / m2 (Spinosad - 400ppm) were effective, respectively, up to 19ºDPT (96.71%) and 33ºDPT (85.70%). The longest period of effectiveness against A. diaperinus was observed with Spinosad at 400ppm, at a dose of 0.504L / m2: 19DPT (89.55%) for adults and 54DPT (92.72%) for larvae, demonstrating the active period of this treatment, confirming the hypothesis that Spinosad has potential insecticide to control infestations of A. diaperinus infesting in commercial laying faeces, representing an alternative for poultry health programs that use the rotation of active ingredients as a way to mitigate the selection of resistance in populations of the coleoptera.(AU)

Atividade inseticida do Spinosad sobre Alphitobius diaperinus em fezes de poedeiras comerciais naturalmente infestadas / Insecticidal activity of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus in naturally infested excrements of commercial hens

Objetivou-se neste ensaio experimental avaliar a eficácia do Spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus desenvolvendo-se em fezes de galinhas poedeiras de ovos comerciais. Foi avaliada a presença de adultos e larvas de A. diaperinus, presentes no esterco localizado sob as gaiolas, nos dias 2 e 1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 e 61 pós-tratamento. O Spinosad, na concentração de 250ppm, quando aplicado na dose de 0,126L/m2 mostrou-se ineficaz contra cascudinhos. As doses de 0,252L/m2 e de 0,504L/m2 (400ppm) mostraram-se igualmente eficazes contra adultos de cascudinhos até o 6ºDPT, atingindo percentuais de eficácia de 91,30% e 90,15%. Contra larvas de A. diaperinus, as diluições de 0,126L/m2 e de 0,252 L/m2 (Spinosad 400ppm) foram eficazes, respectivamente, até o 19ºDPT (96,71%) e 33ºDPT (85,70%). Período mais prolongado de eficácia contra A. diaperinus foi observado com Spinosad a 400ppm, na dose de 0,504L/m2: 19DPT (89,55%) para adultos e 54DPT (92,72%) para larvas, demonstrando o período ativo deste tratamento, confirmando a hipótese de que o Spinosad apresenta potencial inseticida para controle de infestações de A. diaperinus infestando em fezes de poedeiras comerciais, representando uma alternativa para programas sanitários avícolas que utilizem a rotação de princípios ativos como forma de mitigar a seleção de resistência nas populações do coleóptero.

The objective of this experimental trial was to evaluate the efficacy of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus developing in feces from laying hens of commercial eggs. The presence of adults and larvae of A. diaperinus, present in the manure located under the cages, on days –2 and –1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 and 61 was evaluated after treatment. Spinosad, at a concentration of 250ppm, when applied at a dose of 0.126L / m2 was shown to be ineffective against “lesser mealworm”. The doses of 0.252L / m2 and 0.504L / m2 (400ppm) proved to be equally effective against adults of strawberries up to the 6th PDT, reaching efficacy percentages of 91.30% and 90.15%. Against A. diaperinus larvae, the dilutions of 0.126 L / m2 and 0.252 L / m2 (Spinosad - 400ppm) were effective, respectively, up to 19ºDPT (96.71%) and 33ºDPT (85.70%). The longest period of effectiveness against A. diaperinus was observed with Spinosad at 400ppm, at a dose of 0.504L / m2: 19DPT (89.55%) for adults and 54DPT (92.72%) for larvae, demonstrating the active period of this treatment, confirming the hypothesis that Spinosad has potential insecticide to control infestations of A. diaperinus infesting in commercial laying faeces, representing an alternative for poultry health programs that use the rotation of active ingredients as a way to mitigate the selection of resistance in populations of the coleoptera.

Eficácia in vitro do spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) / In vitro effectiveness of spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Com a expansão avícola industrial, Alphitobius diaperinus tem se apresentado mundialmente como uma das principais pragas da avicultura moderna. Destacam-se inúmeros prejuízos, entre eles, redução no ganho de peso e veiculação de agentes potencialmente patogênicos entre as aves. Medidas de controle sanitário envolvendo o manejo correto do substrato utilizado como cama para as aves e tratamento das instalações têm sido pesquisadas e aplicadas. Em busca de novas alternativas para o controle de A. diaperinus, avaliou-se, neste estudo, a ação do Spinosad produto da síntese da fermentação aeróbica de um fungo actinomiceto presente no solo, Sacharopolyspora spinosa. Para tanto, dois experimentos “in vitro” foram conduzidos, o primeiro utilizando-se tratamento direto dos coleópteros em placas de petri e o segundo, em condições simuladas de “cama de aves” utilizando-se a casca de arroz. Os estudos em placas de petri revelaram percentuais de eficácia de 99,67% e 99,33% no controle de adultos 24º dias após tratamento (DPT), bem como 97,0% e 96,0% no controle de larvas (24ºDPT), respectivamente para o tratamento com Spinosad nas concentrações de 400ppm e 250ppm. A aplicação do 250 ppm Spinosad na casca de arroz resultou em percentuais de eficácia superiores (74,39%, 76,92% e 77,82% nos 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT e 30ºDPT, respectivamente) quando comparados ao tratamento com 400ppm (68,51%, 68,18% e 70,55% nos 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT e 30ºDPT, respectivamente), apesar de não ter sido observada diferença estatística significativa entre estes achados (P>0,05). Portanto, verificou-se neste estudo que o Spinosad, nas concentrações de 400ppm e 250ppm, via spray, mostrou-se eficaz tanto aplicado diretamente sobre A. diaperinus (adultos e larvas) ou quando dispersados em casca de arroz parasitada.

With the expansion of industrial poultry, Alphitobius diaperinus represents one of the main pests of modern for poultry production in the world. Numerous losses stand out, such as: reduction in weight gain and transmission of pathogens among birds.. Sanitary control measures with correct handling of the substrate used as litter and treatment of facilities have been researched and applied. In search of a new alternative for the control of A. diaperinus, in this study, the action of Spinosad, synthesis of the aerobic fermentation of an actinomycete fungus present in the soil, Sacharopolyspora spinosa, was evaluated. For this purpose, two "in vitro" experiments were conducted, the first using direct treatment of the coleoptera in petri dishes and the second, under simulated conditions of "poultry litter" using the rice husk. Petri dish studies revealed 99.67% and 99.33% efficacy percentages for adult control (24DPT), as well as 97.0% and 96.0% for larvae control (24º Days post-treatment- DPT) respectively for treatment with Spinosad in concentrations of 400ppm and 250ppm. The application of 250 ppm Spinosad in the rice husk resulted in higher efficacy percentages (74.39%, 76.92% and 77.82% in the 16ºDPT, 23ºDPT and 30ºDPT, respectively) when compared to the 400ppm treatment (68.51 %, 68.18% and 70.55% in the 16th PDT, 23rd PDT and 30th PDT, respectively), although no statistically significant difference was observed between these findings (P> 0.05). Therefore,it was observed that Spinosad in concentrations of 400ppm and 250ppm, via spray, showed efficacy when applied directly on A. diaperinus (adults and larvae) or dispersed in parasitized rice husks.

Transcranial Doppler findings in antiphospholipid syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Transcranial Doppler is a method that enables the assessment of different cerebral hemodynamic parameters. It also allows for the evaluation of the presence of right-to-left circulation shunts (RLS) and for the detection of microembolic signals (MESs), which might be associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular events. For instance, the presence of MESs on transcranial Doppler in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with an increased risk of stroke. Therefore, transcranial Doppler could be a useful tool for stroke risk stratification in these patients. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to evaluate transcranial Doppler cerebral mean blood flow velocities as well as the presence of MESs and RLS in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome and SLE. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-two patients with primary APS (PAPS), 24 patients with secondary APS (SAPS), 27 patients with SLE without APS and 21 healthy controls were evaluated. Clinical and epidemiological data were compiled from medical charts, and all subjects underwent transcranial Doppler examination with breath-holding index calculation. Both middle cerebral arteries were monitored for 60 min for the detection of MESs. RLS was investigated with agitated saline injected as a bolus. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in mean blood flow velocities among the groups. MESs were more frequently found in patients with SLE when compared with controls and patients with APS (SLE: 17.4%, SAPS: 4.3%, PAPS: 0%, controls: 0%, p = 0.03). Anticoagulant therapy was more frequently used in the APS group (PAPS: 81.8%, SAPS: 75.2%, SLE: 1.7%, p < 0.001). Patients with APS had a higher frequency of RLS when compared with volunteers (63.6% versus 38.1%, p = 0.05). Breath-holding index values tended to be lower in patients with SAPS than in control subjects and patients with PAPS and SLE ( p = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with APS had a higher frequency of RLS than healthy controls. This finding alerts to the importance of cardiac investigation in patients with stroke and APS, because further therapies such as RLS occlusion might eventually add protection. The higher frequency of MES in patients with SLE could suggest an effect of anticoagulant therapy on MES prevention, more frequently used in patients with APS.

Fluconazole induces genotoxicity in cultured human peripheral blood mononuclear cells via immunomodulation of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10: new challenges for safe therapeutic regimens.

Context: Fluconazole (FNZ) is a drug used in antifungal therapy. However, the minimum FNZ dose to interfering with immune responses or inducing DNA damage is still unknown. Objective: This study investigated the toxicological profile of FNZ on cultured human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) treated with different concentrations of this azole. Materials and methods: Cultured PBMCs were exposed to FNZ (6, 12, 30, 60 and 120 µg/mL) and the toxicological profile was assessed by the following parameters: cytotoxic and nuclear division index (necrotic, apoptotic and viable cells), DNA damage (alkaline comet test), mutagenic potential (micronucleus test), cytokine modulation (IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ), and predictive toxicity (Osiris® and LAZAR® programs). Results: Our results demonstrated that FNZ induced cellular DNA damage and mutagenicity at concentrations above the plasma peak (>30 µg/mL) and 6 µg/mL, respectively, which was associated with increased TNF-α, and decrease IL-6 and IL-10 concentrations. These effects may be related to increased apoptosis and cytotoxic nuclear division index in the cultured PBMCs. In silico results indicated potential mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant, and carcinogenic effects, which were partially confirmed by the above assays. Discussion and conclusions: Together, these findings suggest the need to rationalize the use of FNZ, especially if it is used for long periods or with concomitant pathologies requiring azole therapy that may increase FNZ's plasma concentration.

Hemogasometria arterial pré e pós-rinoplastia em cães braquicefálicos portadores de estenose de narina / Arterial hemogasometry pre and post rhinoplasty in brachyphalic dogs with nostril stenosis

Vinte e seis cães braquicefálicos portadores de estenose de narina, 22 machos e quatro fêmeas, foram submetidos à rinoplastia bilateral. Dezesseis cães eram Buldogues Franceses; dois, Buldogues Ingleses; seis, Pugs; e dois, Shih Tzus, com idade variando de seis meses a seis anos. Foram efetuadas coletas de sangue arterial para análises hemogasométricas no pré-operatório e 30 dias após a cirurgia. Para cada avaliação, foi obtida uma amostra de 0,5mL de sangue coletado da artéria femoral, em seringa plástica heparinizada. Em seguida, procedeu-se à avaliação hemogasométrica em analisador de gases sanguíneos (I-stat-Abbot®). Os resultados da hemogasometria pré e pós-rinoplastia mostraram uma redução nos valores médios de pCO2, TCO2 , HCO3- e BEecf, hematócrito e hemoglobina, e aumento de pH, pO2 e SO2, indicando melhora na condição ventilatória dos animais após a correção cirúrgica da estenose de narina. Isso posto, conclui-se que a hemogasometria arterial é um exame importante no diagnóstico da síndrome respiratória dos cães braquicefálicos, e extremamente útil no acompanhamento da resposta do paciente ao tratamento. A rinoplastia mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da síndrome respiratória, promovendo melhora nos parâmetros hemogasométricos que indicam acidose respiratória secundária à obstrução das vias aéreas, comum nas raças braquicefálicas.(AU)

Twenty-six brachycephalic dogs with nostril stenosis, 22 males and four females, underwent bilateral rhinoplasty. Sixteen dogs were French Bulldogs; two, English Bulldogs; Six, Pugs; and two, Shih tzus, ranging in age from six months to six years. Blood samples were collected for hemogasometric analysis in the preoperative period and 30 days after surgery. For each evaluation, a 0.5ml sample of blood collected from the femoral artery was obtained in a heparinized plastic syringe. Hemogasometric evaluation was then performed on a blood gas analyzer (I-stat-Abbot®). The results of hemogasometry before and after rhinoplasty showed a reduction in the mean values of pCO2, TCO2, HCO3- and BEecf, hematocrit and hemoglobin, and an increase in pH, pO2 and SO2, indicating an improvement in the ventilatory condition of the animals after surgical correction of Nostril stenosis. Therefore, it is concluded that arterial hemogasometry is an important diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of brachycephalic respiratory syndrome and is extremely useful in monitoring the patient's response to treatment. Rhinoplasty was effective in the treatment of respiratory syndrome, promoting improvement in hemogasometric parameters that indicate respiratory acidosis secondary to airway obstruction, common in the brachycephalic races.(AU)

Hemogasometria arterial pré e pós-rinoplastia em cães braquicefálicos portadores de estenose de narina / Arterial hemogasometry pre and post rhinoplasty in brachyphalic dogs with nostril stenosis

Vinte e seis cães braquicefálicos portadores de estenose de narina, 22 machos e quatro fêmeas, foram submetidos à rinoplastia bilateral. Dezesseis cães eram Buldogues Franceses; dois, Buldogues Ingleses; seis, Pugs; e dois, Shih Tzus, com idade variando de seis meses a seis anos. Foram efetuadas coletas de sangue arterial para análises hemogasométricas no pré-operatório e 30 dias após a cirurgia. Para cada avaliação, foi obtida uma amostra de 0,5mL de sangue coletado da artéria femoral, em seringa plástica heparinizada. Em seguida, procedeu-se à avaliação hemogasométrica em analisador de gases sanguíneos (I-stat-Abbot®). Os resultados da hemogasometria pré e pós-rinoplastia mostraram uma redução nos valores médios de pCO2, TCO2 , HCO3- e BEecf, hematócrito e hemoglobina, e aumento de pH, pO2 e SO2, indicando melhora na condição ventilatória dos animais após a correção cirúrgica da estenose de narina. Isso posto, conclui-se que a hemogasometria arterial é um exame importante no diagnóstico da síndrome respiratória dos cães braquicefálicos, e extremamente útil no acompanhamento da resposta do paciente ao tratamento. A rinoplastia mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da síndrome respiratória, promovendo melhora nos parâmetros hemogasométricos que indicam acidose respiratória secundária à obstrução das vias aéreas, comum nas raças braquicefálicas.(AU)

Twenty-six brachycephalic dogs with nostril stenosis, 22 males and four females, underwent bilateral rhinoplasty. Sixteen dogs were French Bulldogs; two, English Bulldogs; Six, Pugs; and two, Shih tzus, ranging in age from six months to six years. Blood samples were collected for hemogasometric analysis in the preoperative period and 30 days after surgery. For each evaluation, a 0.5ml sample of blood collected from the femoral artery was obtained in a heparinized plastic syringe. Hemogasometric evaluation was then performed on a blood gas analyzer (I-stat-Abbot®). The results of hemogasometry before and after rhinoplasty showed a reduction in the mean values of pCO2, TCO2, HCO3- and BEecf, hematocrit and hemoglobin, and an increase in pH, pO2 and SO2, indicating an improvement in the ventilatory condition of the animals after surgical correction of Nostril stenosis. Therefore, it is concluded that arterial hemogasometry is an important diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of brachycephalic respiratory syndrome and is extremely useful in monitoring the patient's response to treatment. Rhinoplasty was effective in the treatment of respiratory syndrome, promoting improvement in hemogasometric parameters that indicate respiratory acidosis secondary to airway obstruction, common in the brachycephalic races.(AU)

Riparian forest fragments in rice fields under different management: differences on hymenopteran parasitoids diversity

Abstract Hymenopteran parasitoids are important biological control agents in agroecosystems, and their diversity can be increased with habitat heterogeneity. Thus, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the influence of distance of rice-growing areas from natural fragment, type of crop management (organic and conventional) and crop stages (vegetative and reproductive stages) on parasitoids family diversity. The work took place in two irrigated rice crops, one with organic management (O.M.) and another one with conventional management (C.M.), in the municipality of Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brazil, during the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. The parasitoids were collected with Malaise trap arranged at different distances in relation to the native vegetation surrounding the rice crop in both places. Specimens were collected twice a month from seeding until the rice harvest. Average abundance between management, distances and rice development were compared. The most abundant families were Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae and Trichogrammatidae. Parasitoid average abundance was significantly higher on OM only in the second season. There was a negative correlation between distance from native vegetation and parasitoid abundance in C.M. areas. There were differences in the composition of the parasitoid assembly between the phenological stages of rice.

Resumo Os himenópteros parasitoides são importantes agentes de controle biológico em agroecossistemas com sua diversidade variando de acordo com a heterogeneidade de habitat. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da distância de áreas com fragmentos de vegetação natural das áreas de cultivo de arroz, o tipo de manejo (orgânico ou convencional) e os estágios da cultura (vegetativo e reprodutivo) na diversidade de famílias de parasitoides. O trabalho foi conduzido em duas áreas com plantio de arroz irrigado, uma com manejo orgânico (MO) e outra com manejo convencional (CM), no município de Nova Santa Rita, RS, Brasil, durante a safra 2013/2014 e 2014/2015. Os parasitoides foram coletados com armadilha Malaise colocadas sob diferentes distâncias em relação a vegetação nativa circundante ao cultivo em ambas as áreas. Os espécimes foram coletados duas vezes ao mês da semeadura até a colheita. Foram comparadas a abundância média entre os manejos, distâncias e estágio de desenvolvimento do arroz. As famílias mais abundantes foram Platygastridae, Mymaridae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae e Trichogrammatidae com suas abundâncias variando ao longo da safra. A abundância média de parasitoides foi significativamente maior no MO somente na segunda safra. Houve uma correlação negativa entre a distância da vegetação nativa e a abundância de parasitoides. Houve diferença na composição da assembleia de parasitoides entre os estágios fenológicos do arroz.

Neurologic manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome.

Neurological involvement in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is common, and its occurrence increases morbidity and mortality. Patients may present variable neurological involvement, such as cerebrovascular disease, cognitive dysfunction, headache, seizures, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis-like syndrome, transverse myelitis and ocular symptoms. Most neurological manifestations are associated with thrombosis of the microcirculation or of large vessels; nonetheless, there is compelling evidence suggesting that, in some cases, symptoms are secondary to an immune-mediated pathogenesis, with direct binding of aPL on neurons and glia. Herein we describe clinical characteristics and management of neurological APS manifestations.