Effectiveness of Direct-acting Agents After Liver Transplantation A Real-life Study in Rio de Janeiro.

BACKGROUND: Data concerning hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment using direct-acting agents (DAAs) post liver transplantation (LT) remains scarce in low- and average-income countries. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of post-LT HCV treatment using DAAs in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and to assess the course of hepatic biomarkers after sustained virological response (SVR). METHODS: Data from LT recipients with recurrent HCV treated using DAAs was retrospectively analyzed. HCV was defined by detectable HCV-RNA with elevated aminotransferases and/or histological signs of infection on liver biopsy post LT. SVR was defined as undetectable HCV-RNA 12 weeks after the end of treatment. Aspartate-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) and Fibrosis-4 score (FIB-4) were calculated before treatment and after SVR. RESULTS: 116 patients (63% male, median age 62 years, 75% genotype 1 and 62% with hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] prior to LT) were included. Cirrhosis was identified in the allograft of 21 subjects (18%). The overall SVR was 96.6% without differences in SVR proportion according to clinical/demographic characteristics, genotype or presence of cirrhosis. SVR rates were similar in individuals with and without HCC pre-LT (95.8% [95% CI: 87.6-98.7] vs. 97.7% [95% CI: 85.0-99.7%], p = 0.588). No serious adverse events were observed and the use of ribavirin was associated with at least one adverse event (OR = 8.71 [95% CI: 3.17-23.99]). SVR was associated with regression of APRI (OR = 26.00 [95% CI 4.27-1065.94]) and FIB-4 (OR = 15.00 [95% CI: 2.30-631.47]). CONCLUSION: Post-LT HCV treatment with DAAs was safe and effective and associated with a significant decrease in hepatic biomarker levels after SVR.

Métodos no invasivos sobre diagnóstico de esteatosis hepática no alcohólica: descripción de su sensibilidad y especificidad / Noninvasive methods on diagnosis of nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis: description of their sensitivity and specificity / Métodos não invasivos para o diagnóstico de esteatose hepática não alcoólica: descrição de sua sensibilidade e especificidade

El hígado graso no alcohólico es una patología de distribución mundial, siendo su evolución hepática crónica la más común. El objetivo de esta investigación consiste en actualizar y describir la sensibilidad y especificidad de los métodos no invasivos para el diagnóstico de esteatosis hepática priorizando las pruebas bioquímicas utilizadas para NAFLD, aplicando un enfoque de tipo documental a través de revisión sistemática y, empleando como metodología, las normas PRISMA y la herramienta QUADAS-2 para el filtro y selección de artículos. En total, se obtuvieron 441 artículos relacionados al tema de investigación mediante bases de datos como PubMed, Scopus, Web Of Science, Science Direct, Scielo y otros, de los cuales 13 fueron seleccionados. Se encontró que factores relacionados a la presencia o no de comorbilidades como el síndrome metabólico, diabetes, HTA, etnia, peso y raza influyen en la NAFLD; por otro lado, las enzimas hepáticas no son predictores sensibles de la enfermedad. Se evidencia también que la esteatosis hepática está directamente relacionada con el aumento del IMC, triglicéridos, HDL, ALT y GGT.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a pathology of worldwide distribution, being its chronic hepatic evolution the most common. The research aims to update and describe the sensitivity and specificity of noninvasive methods for the diagnosis of hepatic steatosis, prioritizing the biochemical tests used for NAFLD, applying a documentary approach through a systematic review, and using as methodology the PRISMA standards and the QUADAS-2 tool for the filter and selection of articles. In total, 441 articles related to the research topic were obtained through databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scielo and others, of which 13 were selected. It was found that factors related to the presence or not of comorbidities such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, AHT, ethnicity, weight, and race influence NAFLD; on the other hand, liver enzymes are not sensitive predictors of the disease. It is also evidenced that hepatic steatosis is directly related to increased BMI, triglycerides, HDL, ALT and GGT.

O fígado gordo não alcoólico é uma patologia com distribuição mundial, sendo a sua evolução hepática crónica a mais comum. O objetivo desta pesquisa é atualizar e descrever a sensibilidade e especificidade dos métodos não invasivos para o diagnóstico da esteatose hepática, priorizando os exames bioquímicos utilizados para DHGNA, aplicando uma abordagem do tipo documental por meio de revisão sistemática e, utilizando como metodologia, a Normas PRISMA e a ferramenta QUADAS-2 para filtragem e seleção de artigos. No total, 441 artigos relacionados ao tema de pesquisa foram obtidos por meio de bases de dados como PubMed, Scopus, Web Of Science, Science Direct, Scielo e outras, dos quais 13 foram selecionados. Constatou-se que fatores relacionados à presença ou não de comorbidades como síndrome metabólica, diabetes, hipertensão, etnia, peso e raça influenciam a DHGNA; por outro lado, as enzimas hepáticas não são preditores sensíveis de doença. Fica evidente também que a esteatose hepática está diretamente relacionada ao aumento do IMC, triglicerídeos, HDL, ALT e GGT.

Helicobacter pylori prevalence in healthy Mexican children: comparison between two non-invasive methods.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori detection in asymptomatic children with suspected infection or with symptoms that suggest gastric pathology is problematic, since most of the methods depend on the endoscopic study, an invasive and expensive method. Non-invasive methods can be a feasible alternative but must be validated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the concordance between H. pylori DNA detection in saliva and dental plaque by PCR, with antigen detection in stool by immunochromatography, among asymptomatic children in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. METHODS: Dental plaque, saliva, and stool samples were obtained from 171 children between 6 and 12 years old. H. pylori detection in saliva and dental plaque was performed by PCR using specific primers for the 16S rRNA gene, while the detection in stool samples was performed by immunochromatography using the CerTest kit. RESULTS: We found an overall H. pylori prevalence of 59.6% (102/171). Of the H. pylori positive children 18% (20/111) were positive in saliva samples, 28.1% (34/121) in dental plaque samples, and 50.4% (71/141) in stool samples. A higher prevalence was found in girls (64.7%, p = 0.002). Although some of the children declared some dyspeptic symptoms, these were no related to H. pylori. In conclusion, we found a high prevalence of H. pylori in asymptomatic children and the highest proportion was detected by stool antigen test, which was the most feasible method to detect H. pylori infection.

Multispectral and X-ray images for characterization of Jatropha curcas L. seed quality.

BACKGROUND: The use of non-destructive methods with less human interference is of great interest in agricultural industry and crop breeding. Modern imaging technologies enable the automatic visualization of multi-parameter for characterization of biological samples, reducing subjectivity and optimizing the analysis process. Furthermore, the combination of two or more imaging techniques has contributed to discovering new physicochemical tools and interpreting datasets in real time. RESULTS: We present a new method for automatic characterization of seed quality based on the combination of multispectral and X-ray imaging technologies. We proposed an approach using X-ray images to investigate internal tissues because seed surface profile can be negatively affected, but without reaching important internal regions of seeds. An oilseed plant (Jatropha curcas) was used as a model species, which also serves as a multi-purposed crop of economic importance worldwide. Our studies included the application of a normalized canonical discriminant analyses (nCDA) algorithm as a supervised transformation building method to obtain spatial and spectral patterns on different seedlots. We developed classification models using reflectance data and X-ray classes based on linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The classification models, individually or combined, showed high accuracy (> 0.96) using reflectance at 940 nm and X-ray data to predict quality traits such as normal seedlings, abnormal seedlings and dead seeds. CONCLUSIONS: Multispectral and X-ray imaging have a strong relationship with seed physiological performance. Reflectance at 940 nm and X-ray data can efficiently predict seed quality attributes. These techniques can be alternative methods for rapid, efficient, sustainable and non-destructive characterization of seed quality in the future, overcoming the intrinsic subjectivity of the conventional seed quality analysis.

A novelty in laparoscopic total colectomy with natural orifice specimen extraction using a plastic cover / Uma novidade na colectomia total laparoscópica com extração de espécime em orifício natural usando uma cobertura plastic

Abstract Introduction: Minimally invasive colectomy has been performed for some years for many patients worldwide without much complications compared to the open approach. In this study we explained our experience regarding a modification in laparoscopic total colectomy and removing the specimen with Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction (NOSE) through rectum using a plastic cover for the first time. Methods and material: This was an experimental study on a new technique of total colectomy with a small modification. Total colectomy was performed based on 7 port laparoscopic approach. Rectum was sparred. Colon was then taken out through the anal canal using a plastic cover. Results: Thirteen patients underwent laparoscopic total colectomy by removal of the specimen through rectum. Mean age of patients was 42.23 ± 8.15 years. Mean duration of operation was 130 ± 32.4 min. All patients had an uneventful postoperative hospitalization. Discussion: Laparoscopic total colectomy has been proven to have superior benefits than the open approach. In NOSE technique, colon is removed from the anal canal without any complication or consuming much time. This technique might have less pain and removes the complications associated with an incision on the skin to remove the specimen. Also, due to low price of a usual plastic cover, it can be used instead of other techniques to remove the specimen through the rectum.

Resumo Introdução: A colectomia minimamente invasiva vem sendo realizada há alguns anos em muitos pacientes no mundo inteiro, apresentando menos intercorrências do que a abordagem aberta. Neste estudo, os autores relatam sua experiência com uma modificação da colectomia total laparoscópica e extração de espécime em orifício natural (NOSE) pelo reto, usando uma cobertura plástica pela primeira vez. Métodos e materiais: Este foi um estudo experimental sobre uma nova técnica de colectomia total com uma pequena modificação. A colectomia total foi realizada com base na abordagem laparoscópica de sete portas. O reto foi poupado. O cólon foi então retirado pelo canal anal usando uma cobertura plástica. Resultados: Treze pacientes foram submetidos a colectomia total laparoscópica por remoção do espécime pelo reto. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 42,23 ± 8,15 anos. A duração média da operação foi de 130 ± 32,4 minutos. Para todos os pacientes, a internação pós-operatória transcorreu sem intercorrências. Discussão: Foi comprovado que a colectomia total laparoscópica apresenta benefícios superiores à abordagem aberta. Na técnica NOSE, o cólon é removido mais rapidamente do canal anal, sem nenhuma intercorrência. Essa técnica pode causar menos dor e remove as complicações associadas a uma incisão na pele para remover o espécime. Além disso, devido ao baixo preço de uma cobertura plástica comum, ela pode ser usada no lugar de outras técnicas para remover o espécime pelo reto.

Comparación de tres metodologías para estimar el porcentaje de estatura adulta en niños y niñas de 7 a 16 años / Comparison of three methodologies for estimating percentage of adult height in children from 7 to 16 years

El porcentaje de estatura adulta (PEA) es un indicador del estado de maduración, que refleja la variación en la tasa y progreso de crecimiento. Existen diversos métodos para estimar la estatura adulta, sin haberse documentado en la literatura de manera concreta sus similitudes o diferencias. Los objetivos del presente trabajo fueron comparar tres métodos de estimación del PEA, identificar cambios seculares en niños y adolescentes y establecer valores de referencia del PEA para población portuguesa. Se midieron en 799 niños y 736 niñas, de 7,0 a 16,49 años, la edad ósea, el peso y la estatura, para estimar el porcentaje de estatura adulta por las metodologías TW3, KR y RWT. Los valores del método TW3 del presente estudio, fueron comparados con los reportados en décadas atrás para identificar cambios seculares. Se utilizó un ANOVA de medidas repetidas para estimar las diferencias entre los métodos en el presente estudio, así como gráficas de Bland y Altman. Se utilizó la prueba de Kruskal-Wallis para analizar las diferencias entre los valores encontrados en la presente investigación y los presentados en décadas atrás en otros estudios. No se encontraron diferencias entre los métodos TW3 y KR en los diferentes grupos de edad cuando se clasificaron los sujetos por edad cronológica, en ambos sexos (P>0,05). Así mismo, no se observaron cambios seculares en el PEA (P>0.05). Los métodos TW3 y KR pueden ser intercambiables entre sí, debido a que no presentan diferencias en la estimación a diferentes edades y en ambos sexos. Además, no existió cambio secular en la estimación de PEA por estas metodologías, lo que las hace útiles en la actualidad.

The adult height percentage (AHP) is an indicator of maturity state, which reflects variation in growth rate. Several methods estimates adult height; however, its similarities or differences have not been documented in a concrete way in literature. The aims of the present work were to compare three common methods of AHP estimation, to identify children and adolescents secular changes and to develop AHP reference values in Portuguese population. Skeletal age, weight and height were measure in 799 children and 736 girls from 7.0 to 16.5 years; in addition, parents height was self-reported by them to estimate the AHP by TW3, RWT and KR methods. ANOVA was used to estimate differences between TW3, KR and RWT methods, as well as Bland-Altman graphs. Also, Kruskal-Wallis test was applied. No differences were found between TW3 and KR methods in all age groups, in both sexes, when subjects were classified by chronological age (P> 0.05). Likewise, no secular changes were observed in AHP (P> 0.05). Not only TW3 and KR protocols can be interchangeable each other because they did not present differences in the AHP estimation at different ages and in both sexes. However, secular changes were not observed in AHP estimation by these methods.

Non-invasive hair sampling of Neotropical otters / Coleta não invasiva de pelos de lontra Neotropical

Abstract: Sampling wild animal populations using non-invasive techniques is advised when dealing with threatened species. Hair samples provide ecological information like species and individual identification. However, hair trapping is scarcely used in otters, due to their aquatic habits. Most studies are with captive individuals, so there is the need to test non-invasive hair trapping methods in otters in the wild. The aim of this study was to develop a simple and cost-effective method to collect hair from otter species in a non-invasive way. The study was carried out in the Paranapanema River, São Paulo State, Brazil, with the Neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis Olfers, 1818), a protected species. Hair traps (wooden sticks and tree roots with adhesive tape or wax bands) were set during six nights on river banks, otter trails and scent-marking sites. Traps were baited with otter fresh spraints from other river locations. From the 23 traps, 10 (43.7%) were successful in collecting otter hairs, mostly guard-hair. The sticks were much more efficient than the roots at capturing otter hair (70.6.% vs. 0%) as well as adhesive tape when compared to wax (71.4% vs. 0%). Method simplicity and efficiency suggest that it can be a cost-effective way for collecting otter hairs without the need for capturing individuals. This method can be used for: assessment of local otter distribution; collecting otter hair samples for sex and individual identification (by molecular analysis), trophic ecology (by isotopic analyses), ecotoxicology (by contamination analysis) or behaviour ecology (by hormonal and stress levels analysis). More trapping campaigns should be implemented to further test the method's efficiency.

Resumo: O uso de técnicas de amostragem não-invasivas é aconselhado quando se trabalha com espécies ameaçadas de animais selvagens. Amostras de pelo fornecem informações ecológicas, como a identificação ao nível da espécie e do indivíduo. No entanto, a coleta de pelo é pouco usada em lontras, devido aos seus hábitos aquáticos. A maioria dos estudos é feita com indivíduos em cativeiro, existindo por isso a necessidade de testar métodos não invasivos de coleta de pelos de lontras na natureza. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um método simples e com uma boa relação custo-benefício para coletar pelos de espécies de lontra de maneira não invasiva. O estudo foi realizado no rio Paranapanema, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, com a lontra Neotropical (Lontra longicaudis Olfers, 1818), uma espécie protegida. Armadilhas de pelo (estacas de madeira e raízes de árvores com fita adesiva ou bandas de cera depilatória) foram colocadas durante seis noites nas margens do rio, em trilhas e locais de marcação de lontra. As armadilhas foram iscadas com dejetos frescos de lontra de outros locais do rio. Das 23 armadilhas, 10 (43.7%) foram eficazes na coleta de pelos de lontra, maioritariamente pelos-guarda. As estacas foram muito mais eficientes que as raízes na captura de pelos de lontra (70.6.% vs. 0%) tal como a fita adesiva quando comparada com a cera (71,4% vs. 0%). A simplicidade e a eficiência do método sugerem que esta pode ser uma maneira econômica de coletar pelo de lontra sem a necessidade de capturar indivíduos. Este método pode ser usado para: levantamento da distribuição local da lontra; coleta de amostras de pelo de lontra para identificação sexual e individual (por meio de análise molecular); ecologia trófica (por meio de análise isotópica); ecotoxicologia (por meio de análise de contaminantes); e ecologia comportamental (por meio da determinação de níveis hormonais reprodutivos e ligados ao estresse). Mais campanhas de armadilhagem devem ser implementadas para melhor avaliar a eficiência do método.

Genetic diversity of the pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) population in the Brazilian Pantanal assessed by combining fresh fecal DNA analysis and a set of heterologous microsatellite loci

Abstract The pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) is close to being classified as 'globally threatened', with the largest population occurring in the Brazilian Pantanal. Since capture is stressful to these animals, non-invasive sampling methods such as the use of feces can provide reliable sources of DNA. The aim of this study was to use fecal samples to evaluate the genetic variability of the Brazilian Pantanal population of pampas deer. Six heterologous microsatellite markers were used to screen 142 stool specimens. Seventy-four deer were identified, of which 50 adults were used to determine the genetic characteristics of the population. The Pantanal population showed high genetic diversity (mean number of alleles per locus = 11.5, expected heterozygosity = 0.75). This is the first investigation to characterize a South American deer species using fecal DNA and demonstrates the usefulness and efficiency of this approach, as well as the feasibility of obtaining information that could not have been easily obtained by traditional DNA sampling. Our findings suggest that management strategies for this species may be much more effective if applied now when the population still shows high genetic variability.

Transient Elastography vs Aspartate Aminotransferase to Platelet Ratio Index in Hepatitis C: A Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Background and rationale. Many different non-invasive methods have been studied with the purpose of staging liver fibrosis. The objective of this study was verifying if transient elastography is superior to aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index for staging fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Material and methods. A systematic review with meta-analysis of studies which evaluated both non-invasive tests and used biopsy as the reference standard was performed. A random-effects model was used, anticipating heterogeneity among studies. Diagnostic odds ratio was the main effect measure, and summary receiver operating characteristic curves were created. A sensitivity analysis was planned, in which the meta-analysis would be repeated excluding each study at a time. Results. Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. Regarding the prediction of significant fibrosis, transient elastography and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index had diagnostic odds ratios of 11.70 (95% confidence interval = 7.13-19.21) and 8.56 (95% confidence interval = 4.90-14.94) respectively. Concerning the prediction of cirrhosis, transient elastography and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index had diagnostic odds ratios of 66.49 (95% confidence interval = 23.71- 186.48) and 7.47 (95% confidence interval = 4.88-11.43) respectively. Conclusion. In conclusion, there was no evidence of significant superiority of transient elastography over aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index regarding the prediction of significant fibrosis, but the former proved to be better than the latter concerning prediction of cirrhosis.

Fibrosis assessment using FibroMeter combined to first generation tests in hepatitis C.

AIM: To evaluate the performance of FibroMeterVirus3G combined to the first generation tests aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) or Forns index to assess significant fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). METHODS: First generation tests APRI or Forns were initially applied in a derivation population from Rio de Janeiro in Brazil considering cut-offs previously reported in the literature to evaluate significant fibrosis. FibroMeterVirus3G was sequentially applied to unclassified cases from APRI or Forns. Accuracy of non-invasive combination of tests, APRI plus FibroMeterVirus3G and Forns plus FibroMeterVirus3G was evaluated in the Brazilian derivation population. APRI plus FibroMeterVirus3G combination was validated in a population of CHC patients from Angers in France. All patients were submitted to liver biopsy staged according to METAVIR score by experienced hepatopathologists. Significant fibrosis was considered as METAVIR F ≥ 2. The fibrosis stage classification was used as the reference for accuracy evaluation of non-invasive combination of tests. Blood samples for the calculation of serum tests were collected on the same day of biopsy procedure or within a maximum 3 mo interval and stored at -70 °C. RESULTS: Seven hundred and sixty CHC patients were included (222 in the derivation population and 538 in the validation group). In the derivation population, the FibroMeterVirus3G AUROC was similar to APRI AUROC (0.855 vs 0.815, P = 0.06) but higher than Forns AUROC (0.769, P < 0.001). The best FibroMeterVirus3G cut-off to discriminate significant fibrosis was 0.61 (80% diagnostic accuracy; 75% in the validation population, P = 0.134). The sequential combination of APRI or Forns with FibroMeterVirus3G in derivation population presented similar performance compared to FibroMeterVirus3G used alone (79% vs 78% vs 80%, respectively, P = 0.791). Unclassified cases of significant fibrosis after applying APRI and Forns corresponded to 49% and 54%, respectively, of the total sample. However, the combination of APRI or Forns with FibroMeterVirus3G allowed 73% and 77%, respectively, of these unclassified cases to be correctly evaluated. Moreover, this combination resulted in a reduction of FibroMeterVirus3G requirement in approximately 50% of the entire sample. The stepwise combination of APRI and FibroMeterVirus3G applied to the validation population correctly identified 74% of patients with severe fibrosis (F ≥ 3). CONCLUSION: The stepwise combination of APRI or Forns with FibroMeterVirus3G may represent an accurate lower cost alternative when evaluating significant fibrosis, with no need for liver biopsy.

Trunk mobility after minimally invasive one-level lumbar instrumentation / Mobilidade do tronco após instrumentação lombar minimamente invasiva em um único nível / Movilidad del tronco después de la instrumentación lumbar mínimamente invasiva en un único nivel

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the impact of a minimally invasive lumbar one-level fixation on trunk mobility and quality of life compared with the preoperative condition in 26 consecutive patients. Methods: The following data were collected preoperatively and postoperatively for the statistical analysis: maximal trunk extension and flexion angles, Visual Analog Scale of pain and Oswestry Disability Index scores. Results: There was improvement in all variables. Statistical significance was observed in trunk extension, pain, and Oswestry Disability Index. Although mobility in trunk flexion was higher in average values after surgery, this difference was not statistically demonstrated. Conclusion: Minimally invasive one-level lumbar fixation does not cause reduction of trunk flexibility in comparison to the mobility before surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da fixação minimamente invasiva de um único nível lombar sobre a mobilidade do tronco e a qualidade de vida em comparação com o estado pré-operatório em 26 pacientes consecutivos. Métodos: Foram coletados os seguintes dados pré e pós-operatórios para a análise estatística: ângulos de flexão e extensão máxima do tronco, escore da Escala Visual Analógica para dor e do Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry. Resultado: Houve melhora em todas as variáveis. Foi observada significância estatística para extensão do tronco, dor e Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry. Apesar da mobilidade em flexão do tronco ter sido maior em valores médios no pós-operatório, essa diferença não foi estatisticamente demonstrada. Conclusão: A fixação lombar minimamente invasiva de um único nível lombar não causa redução na flexibilidade do tronco em comparação com a mobilidade antes da cirurgia.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de la fijación mínimamente invasiva en uno solo nivel lumbar en la movilidad del tronco y la calidad de vida en comparación con el estado preoperatorio en 26 pacientes consecutivos. Métodos: Se colectaron los siguientes datos pre y postoperatorios para el análisis estadístico: ángulos máximos de la flexión y extensión del tronco, la puntuación en la Escala Visual Analógica para el dolor e Índice de Discapacidad de Oswestry. Resultados: Hubo una mejora en todas las variables. Se observó significación estadística para la extensión del tronco, el dolor y el Índice de Discapacidad de Oswestry. A pesar de la movilidad en la flexión del tronco haber sido mayor en los valores medios en el postoperatorio, esta diferencia no fue demostrada estadísticamente. Conclusiones: La fijación lumbar mínimamente invasiva de un solo nivel lumbar no causa reducción en la flexibilidad del tronco en comparación con la movilidad antes de la cirugía.

Relationship between weight, age and hatching success and the concentration of heavy metals in nestling blue macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus Latham, 1790) in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul / Relação entre peso, idade, sucesso de eclosão e concentração de metais pesados em filhotes de arara-azul (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus Latham, 1790) no Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul

The concentration of heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Al, As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mo, Ni, Se and Zn) was evaluated in the blood of nestling blue macaws (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) captured in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul (n=26) in 2012; this was based on the hypothesis that these birds exhibit levels of these heavy metals in their organism and that these interfere in hatching success, weight and age of the chicks. Blood samples were digested with nitric acid and hydrochloric acid and the quantification of metals was performed by ICP-OES (Optical Emission Spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma). Blood samples of nestlings showed concentrations of Cr (0.10μg/g) Fe (3.06μg/g) Al (3.46μg/g), Cd (0.25μg/g) Cu (0.74μg/g), Mo (0.33μg/g), Ni (0.61μg/g), Se (0.98μg/g), and Zn (2.08μg/g). The levels of heavy metals found were not associated with weight, age and hatching success of the chicks.(AU)

Avaliou-se a concentração de metais pesados (selênio, zinco, ferro, cobre, molibdênio, níquel, cromo, arsênio, cádmio, chumbo e alumínio) no sangue de filhotes de arara-azul (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) capturados no Pantanal (n=26) no ano de 2012, partindo da hipótese de que estas aves apresentem níveis desses metais pesados no organismo e que os mesmos tenham relação com o sucesso de eclosão, peso e idade dos filhotes. As amostras de sangue foram digeridas em ácido nítrico e ácido clorídrico e a quantificação dos metais foi realizada por ICP-OES (Espectroscopia e Emissão Óptica por Plasma Indutivamente Acoplado). As amostras de sangue de filhotes de A.hyacinthinusapresentaram concentrações de Cr (0,10μg/g), Fe (3,06μg/g), Al (3,46μg/g), Cd (0,25μg/g), Cu (0,74μg/g), Mo (0,33μg/g), Ni (0,61μg/g), Se (0,98μg/g) e Zn (2,08μg/g). Os níveis de metais pesados encontrados não apresentaram relação com o peso, idade ou sucesso de eclosão.(AU)

Relationship between weight, age and hatching success and the concentration of heavy metals in nestling blue macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus Latham, 1790) in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul / Relação entre peso, idade, sucesso de eclosão e concentração de metais pesados em filhotes de arara-azul (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus Latham, 1790) no Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul

The concentration of heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Al, As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mo, Ni, Se and Zn) was evaluated in the blood of nestling blue macaws (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) captured in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul (n=26) in 2012; this was based on the hypothesis that these birds exhibit levels of these heavy metals in their organism and that these interfere in hatching success, weight and age of the chicks. Blood samples were digested with nitric acid and hydrochloric acid and the quantification of metals was performed by ICP-OES (Optical Emission Spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma). Blood samples of nestlings showed concentrations of Cr (0.10μg/g) Fe (3.06μg/g) Al (3.46μg/g), Cd (0.25μg/g) Cu (0.74μg/g), Mo (0.33μg/g), Ni (0.61μg/g), Se (0.98μg/g), and Zn (2.08μg/g). The levels of heavy metals found were not associated with weight, age and hatching success of the chicks.

Avaliou-se a concentração de metais pesados (selênio, zinco, ferro, cobre, molibdênio, níquel, cromo, arsênio, cádmio, chumbo e alumínio) no sangue de filhotes de arara-azul (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) capturados no Pantanal (n=26) no ano de 2012, partindo da hipótese de que estas aves apresentem níveis desses metais pesados no organismo e que os mesmos tenham relação com o sucesso de eclosão, peso e idade dos filhotes. As amostras de sangue foram digeridas em ácido nítrico e ácido clorídrico e a quantificação dos metais foi realizada por ICP-OES (Espectroscopia e Emissão Óptica por Plasma Indutivamente Acoplado). As amostras de sangue de filhotes de A.hyacinthinusapresentaram concentrações de Cr (0,10μg/g), Fe (3,06μg/g), Al (3,46μg/g), Cd (0,25μg/g), Cu (0,74μg/g), Mo (0,33μg/g), Ni (0,61μg/g), Se (0,98μg/g) e Zn (2,08μg/g). Os níveis de metais pesados encontrados não apresentaram relação com o peso, idade ou sucesso de eclosão.

Electronic identification of animals, what are the applicability of these methods in meat production? / Identificação eletrônica de animais: quais são as aplicabilidades desses métodos na produção de carne?

Currently, the concern with safe food and its quality has been achieving great growth worldwide. For those attributes to be secured, electronic identification is the first step to ensure animal products traceability. This research aimed to study invasive and non-invasive electronic identification methods, and the benefits and drawbacks of these mechanisms in meat productive chain, since 1983 to date. By means of this bibliographic survey, it was observed there are several tools available that may be useful to farmers to attain the electronic identification, and the advantages and disadvantages of each method should be considered to choose the best one for each situation. Invasive methods have been subject of many studies, which reflects the broad commercial use of these identifiers, however, issues related to animal welfare and specific disadvantages may restrict their use. Non-invasive methods are more aligned to the practices of animal welfare, but they are more expensive, less practical, and less studied than others.

Atualmente, a preocupação com alimentos seguros e de qualidade obteve grande crescimento em nível mundial. Para que esses atributos sejam garantidos, a identificação eletrônica é o primeiro passo para assegura a rastreabilidade de alimentos de origem animal. A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo estudar os métodos invasivos e não invasivos de identificação eletrônica, além das vantagens e desvantagens da aplicação desses mecanismos nas cadeias produtivas de carne, nos períodos de 1983 até o momento. Por meio deste levantamento bibliográfico observou-se que há diversas ferramentas disponíveis aos produtores para realização da identificação eletrônica, devendo-se considerar as vantagens e desvantagens de cada método para escolher aquele que melhor se adequa a cada situação. Os métodos invasivos foram alvo de muitos estudos, o que reflete o amplo uso comercial destes identificadores, porém, questões relacionadas ao bem-estar animal e desvantagens específicas para cada método podem restringir seu uso. Já os métodos não invasivos estão mais alinhados às práticas de bem-estar animal, mas são mais caros que os demais, além de serem menos práticos e pouco estudados.

ELF (Enhanced Liver Fibrosis) como marcador não invasivo de fibrose hepática na hepatite C crônica / ELF (Enhanced Liver Fibrosis) as a non invasive predictor of liver fibrosis in hepatitis C

A fibrose hepática é o aspecto mais relevante e o mais importante determinante de morbimortalidade na hepatite C crônica (HCC). Historicamente, a biópsia hepática é o método de referência para avaliação da fibrose causada pela HCC, apesar de apresentar limitações. O estudo de marcadores não invasivos, que possam obviar a necessidade da biópsia, é uma área de constante interesse na hepatologia. Idealmente, a avaliação da fibrose hepática deveria ser acurada, simples, prontamente disponível, de baixo custo e informar sobre o prognóstico da patologia. Os marcadores não invasivos mais estudados são a elastografia hepática transitória (EHT) e os laboratoriais. A EHT já foi extensamente validada na HCC e está inserida na rotina de avaliação destes pacientes. Dentre os laboratoriais, existem diversos testes em continua experimentação e, até o momento, nenhum foi integrado à prática clínica no Brasil, embora já aplicados rotineiramente em outros países. O Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF), um teste que dosa no soro ácido hialurônico, pró-peptídeo amino-terminal do colágeno tipo III e inibidor tissular da metaloproteinase 1, tem se mostrado bastante eficaz na detecção de fibrose hepática significativa e de cirrose na HCC. Neste estudo o ELF teve o seu desempenho avaliado em relação a biópsia hepática e demonstrou apresentar boa acurácia na detecção tanto de fibrose significativa quanto de cirrose. Na comparação com a EHT apresentou acurácia semelhante para estes mesmos desfechos, com significância estatística. No entanto, foi observada uma superestimação da fibrose com a utilização dos pontos de corte propostos pelo fabricante. Este achado está em acordo com a literatura, onde não há consenso sobre o melhor ponto de corte a ser empregado na prática clínica. Com a ampliação da casuística foi possível propor novos pontos de corte, através da análise clássica, com a biópsia hepática como padrão ouro...

Liver fibrosis is the most relevant issue concerning chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and determines its prognosis. Historically, liver biopsy has been the reference method for evaluating fibrosis related to CHC, though it presents many drawbacks. There is a continuing interest in the development of non invasive markers capable of replacing liver biopsy. The ideal surrogate for fibrosis evaluation should be accurate, simple, low cost and yield prognostic information. So far, the most well known non invasive methods are transient hepatic elastography (TE) and laboratory panels. TE has already been extensively validated and is integrated in patients routine. There is plenty of laboratory panels in continuing evaluation and some are already integrated in daily practice abroad. In Brasil, until the present moment, it is not a reality. Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) panel comprises the serum concentration of hyaluronic acid, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1, and aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen and has demonstrated good performance in detecting significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in CHC patients. In the present study ELF had it’s performance evaluated against liver biopsy and obtained satisfactory accuracy in detecting significant fibrosis and cirrhosis. In comparison to TE no statistically significant diference was observed, for the same endpoints mentioned before. However, the application of manufacturer’s cutoff points produced overestimation of fibrosis stages. These findings are in accordance with other author’s results, in that there is no consensus so far on the most adequate cutoff points for main clinical end points. Enlarging the data permited calculating new cutoff points, through the classical statistical approach, using liver biopsy as the gold standard...

Electronic identification of animals, what are the applicability of these methods in meat production? / Identificação eletrônica de animais: quais são as aplicabilidades desses métodos na produção de carne?

Currently, the concern with safe food and its quality has been achieving great growth worldwide. For those attributes to be secured, electronic identification is the first step to ensure animal products traceability. This research aimed to study invasive and non-invasive electronic identification methods, and the benefits and drawbacks of these mechanisms in meat productive chain, since 1983 to date. By means of this bibliographic survey, it was observed there are several tools available that may be useful to farmers to attain the electronic identification, and the advantages and disadvantages of each method should be considered to choose the best one for each situation. Invasive methods have been subject of many studies, which reflects the broad commercial use of these identifiers, however, issues related to animal welfare and specific disadvantages may restrict their use. Non-invasive methods are more aligned to the practices of animal welfare, but they are more expensive, less practical, and less studied than others.(AU)

Atualmente, a preocupação com alimentos seguros e de qualidade obteve grande crescimento em nível mundial. Para que esses atributos sejam garantidos, a identificação eletrônica é o primeiro passo para assegura a rastreabilidade de alimentos de origem animal. A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo estudar os métodos invasivos e não invasivos de identificação eletrônica, além das vantagens e desvantagens da aplicação desses mecanismos nas cadeias produtivas de carne, nos períodos de 1983 até o momento. Por meio deste levantamento bibliográfico observou-se que há diversas ferramentas disponíveis aos produtores para realização da identificação eletrônica, devendo-se considerar as vantagens e desvantagens de cada método para escolher aquele que melhor se adequa a cada situação. Os métodos invasivos foram alvo de muitos estudos, o que reflete o amplo uso comercial destes identificadores, porém, questões relacionadas ao bem-estar animal e desvantagens específicas para cada método podem restringir seu uso. Já os métodos não invasivos estão mais alinhados às práticas de bem-estar animal, mas são mais caros que os demais, além de serem menos práticos e pouco estudados.(AU)