Using machine learning with passive wearable sensors to pilot the detection of eating disorder behaviors in everyday life.

BACKGROUND: Eating disorders (ED) are serious psychiatric disorders, taking a life every 52 minutes, with high relapse. There are currently no support or effective intervention therapeutics for individuals with an ED in their everyday life. The aim of this study is to build idiographic machine learning (ML) models to evaluate the performance of physiological recordings to detect individual ED behaviors in naturalistic settings. METHODS: From an ongoing study (Final N = 120), we piloted the ability for ML to detect an individual's ED behavioral episodes (e.g. purging) from physiological data in six individuals diagnosed with an ED, all of whom endorsed purging. Participants wore an ambulatory monitor for 30 days and tapped a button to denote ED behavioral episodes. We built idiographic (N = 1) logistic regression classifiers (LRC) ML trained models to identify onset of episodes (~600 windows) v. baseline (~571 windows) physiology (Heart Rate, Electrodermal Activity, and Temperature). RESULTS: Using physiological data, ML LRC accurately classified on average 91% of cases, with 92% specificity and 90% sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: This evidence suggests the ability to build idiographic ML models that detect ED behaviors from physiological indices within everyday life with a high level of accuracy. The novel use of ML with wearable sensors to detect physiological patterns of ED behavior pre-onset can lead to just-in-time clinical interventions to disrupt problematic behaviors and promote ED recovery.

Tuning Electronic and Structural Properties of Lead-Free Metal Halide Perovskites: A Comparative Study of 2D Ruddlesden-Popper and 3D Compositions.

In recent decades, two-dimensional (2D) perovskites have emerged as promising semiconductors for next-generation photovoltaics, showing notable advancements in solar energy conversion. Herein, we explore the impact of alternative inorganic lattice BX-based compositions (B=Ge or Sn, X=Br or I) on the energy gap and stability. Our investigation encompasses BA2Man-1BnX3n+1 2D Ruddlesden-Popper perovskites (for n=1-5 layers) and 3D bulk (MA)BX3 systems, employing first-principles calculations with spin-orbit coupling (SOC), DFT-1/2 quasiparticle, and D3 dispersion corrections. The study unveils how atoms with smaller ionic radii induce anisotropic internal and external distortions within the inorganic and organic lattices. Introducing the spacers in the low-layer regime reduces local distortions but widens band gaps. Our calculation protocol provides deeper insights into the physics and chemistry underlying 2D perovskite materials, paving the way for optimizing environmentally friendly alternatives that can efficiently replace with sustainable materials.

Self-reported adverse reactions to subcutaneous airborne allergen immunotherapy: a real-life, single center study.

Summary: Background. To estimate the prevalence of self-reported adverse reactions (AdR) to subcutaneous airborne allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) and to describe factors associated with its occurrence. Methods. Real-life, observational, descriptive study of all patients treated with SCIT at a Portuguese allergy unit between 03/2017 and 06/2019, and who answered ≥ 1 time to a pre-SCIT evaluation questionnaire assessing the occurrence of local and/or systemic AdR in the previous administration. Results. 939 questionnaires from 231 patients (42% female, 35% with asthma) were included. Most (60%) SCIT preparations had multiple allergens with concentration adjusted to prevent dilution (MA-NoDil), 26% were single allergen with standard concentration (SA-SC), 10% single allergen with higher than standard concentration (SA-HC), and 4% mixtures without concentration adjustment (MA-Dil). SCIT-related AdR were self-reported in 313 (33%) administrations, 97% at the injection site and 11% grade 1 systemic symptoms. In a multivariable model, being a female and having asthma were associated with higher risk of AdR. MA-NoDil SCIT presented a lower risk of AdR compared to SA-SC SCIT. Conclusions. SCIT-related AdR were self-reported in 1/3 of the administrations, most at the injection site. The risk of AdR was higher in females and in patients with asthma. The lower risk of adverse reactions observed in SCIT preparations with multiple allergens with no dilutional effect should be further explored in future, targeted studies.

Double blind randomized clinical trial comparing minimally- invasive envelope flap and conventional envelope flap on impacted lower third molar surgery.

BACKGROUND: The latest trend in surgery is to look for minimally invasive procedures, with fewer complications and a shorter recovery time. This study aims to compare the minimally- invasive envelope flap, with smaller incision and fewer dissection and the conventional envelope flap, with a 20mm incision, on impacted mandibular third molar surgery, focusing on the hypothesis that there were no differences in postoperative outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A double-blind randomized clinical trial was designed to compare both incisions, focused on determining the approach with minor postoperative side-effects and minor impact on quality-of-life. A total of 60 patients were enrolled for the study if their presented impacted mandibular third molar and was 18-years-old or more. Both groups were evaluated from time elapsed on the surgery, maximum mouth opening, swelling and quality of life assessment. RESULTS: The flap choice influenced facial swelling (p=0,03), pain on the first three days (p=0,037), interference with oral hygiene (p=0,019) and discomfort on speech (p=0,07). Chewing, swallowing, trismus, pain after seven days, postoperative complications and other quality-of-life arrangements were no different between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The minimally- invasive envelope flap could lead to a less painful experience for the patient, with fewer impact on the oral hygiene and speech discomfort.

Molecular Profile of Sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus Dust Mite in Portugal.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze component-resolved diagnosis of sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) in patients with respiratory allergy and the association between diagnostic findings and clinical severity in different geographical areas. METHODS: The study population comprised 217 patients (mean age, 25.85 [12.7] years; 51.16% female) selected from 13 centers in Portugal (5 from the North, n=65). All had allergic rhinitis with or without asthma and positive skin prick test results to at least 1 dust mite. Specific IgE (sIgE) to Der p, Dermatophagoides farinae, Lepidoglyphus destructor, Der p 1, Der p 2, Der p 10, and Der p 23 was determined using ImmunoCAP. The Mann-Whitney test was applied for the following comparisons: rhinitis vs rhinitis and asthma; mild vs moderate-to-severe rhinitis; North vs South. RESULTS: The prevalence of sensitization was 98.2% for Der p, and 72.4%, 89.4%, 9.7%, and 77% for Der p 1, Der p 2, Der p 10, and Der p 23, respectively. The corresponding median sIgE levels were 8.56, 17.7, 0.01, and 3.95 kUA/L. sIgE to all allergens was higher in patients with moderate-to-severe rhinitis and rhinitis with asthma (nonsignficant). Concentrations of sIgE to Der p 2 were significantly higher in the South than in the North (P=.0496). CONCLUSION: The most common sensitization in Portugal was to Der p. The highest prevalence and median sIgE level were observed for Der p 2. All sIgE values for molecular components were higher in more symptomatic patients (nonsignificant). Concentrations of sIgE to Der p 2 were higher in the South, probably because of the warmer temperature and/or the larger sample size.

Effects of heat in the properties of NaOCl alone and mixed with etidronate and alkaline tetrasodium EDTA.

AIM: To assess the free available chlorine concentration (FAC), organic tissue dissolution and smear layer removal capacity of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) alone and when mixtured with etidronate (HEDP) and tetrasodium EDTA (Na4 EDTA), and heated to different temperatures. METHODOLOGY: Mixtures at 1 : 1 ratio of 5% NaOCl with distilled water (considered NaOCl alone), 18% HEDP or 10% Na4 EDTA were heated to 25 °C, 37 °C, 48 °C and 60 °C. The FAC in the mixtures was assessed at 5, 10, 20, 30, 60 and 120 min. Samples of bovine muscle tissue (n = 10) were prepared with similar size and weighed before and after 5, 10 and 15 min of immersion in the mixtures heated to the different temperatures to verify organic matter dissolution. The intergroup results were compared statistically using one-way analysis of variance (anova) and intragroup by two-way analysis of variance (anova), both followed by Tukey's multiple-comparison test (α < 0.01). Bovine dentine blocks (n = 10) were analysed by scanning electron microscopy before and after immersion in the mixtures, and the time taken to remove the smear layer from the surfaces of the samples was determined. The Friedman test was used to compare the scores of the same group (α < 0.01), and the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post hoc was used to compare the different groups (α < 0.01). Saline solution was used as a control in the experiments of tissue dissolution and smear layer removal, RESULTS: Heating NaOCl alone did not affect its FAC. The higher the temperature of the mixtures with the chelators, the lower the FAC. Organic tissue dissolution was improved by increases in temperature of NaOCl alone and its mixture with HEDP (P < 0.01); however, the mixture with Na4 EDTA had no improvement (P > 0.01). Smear layer removal by NaOCl alone was enhanced by heating resulting in lower scores in some samples and became more rapid in the mixtures with the chelators. The saline solution did not promote tissue dissolution nor smear layer removal (P > 0.01). CONCLUSION: In this laboratory study, heating NaOCl alone or when mixed with HEDP improved its capacity to dissolve organic matter and remove the smear layer. However, the mixture with HEDP required frequent refreshment to retain these effects when heated. Due to the acceleration in the reaction between the irrigants, very rapid reductions in the free available chlorine in the mixtures with Na4 EDTA heated to the different temperatures occurred.

Crotoxin down-modulates pro-inflammatory cells and alleviates pain on the MOG35-55-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an animal model of multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a Central Nervous System inflammatory demyelinating disease that has as primary symptoms losses of sensory and motor functions, including chronic pain. To date, however, few studies have investigated the mechanisms of chronic pain in animal models of MS since locomotor impairments render difficult its evaluation. It was previously demonstrated that in the MOG35-55-induced EAE, an animal model of MS, the hypernociception appears before the onset of motor disability, allowing for the study of these two phenomena separately. Here, we evaluated the effect of crotoxin (CTX), a neurotoxin isolated from the Crotalus durissus terrificus snake venom that displays, at non-toxic dose, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, in the pain and in symptoms progression of EAE. The pain threshold of female C57BL/6 mice decreased at the 4th day after immunization, while the first sign of disease appeared around the 11st-12nd days, coinciding with the onset of motor abnormalities. CTX (40 µg/kg, s.c.) administered in a single dose on the 5th day after immunization, induced a long-lasting analgesic effect (5 days), without interfering with the clinical signs of the disease. On the other hand, when crotoxin was administered for 5 consecutive days, from 5th-9th day after immunization, it induced analgesia and also reduced EAE progression. The antinociceptive effect of crotoxin was blocked by Boc-2 (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a selective antagonist of formyl peptide receptors, by NDGA (30 µg/kg, i.p.), a lipoxygenase inhibitor and by atropine sulfate (10 mg/kg, i.p.), an antagonist of muscarinic receptors, administered 30 min before CTX. CTX was also effective in decreasing EAE clinical signs even when administered after its onset. Regarding the interactions between neurons and immunocompetent cells, CTX, in vitro, was able to reduce T cell proliferation, decreasing Th1 and Th17 and increasing Treg cell differentiation. Furthermore, in EAE model, the treatment with 5 consecutive doses of CTX inhibited IFN-γ-producing T cells, GM-CSF-producing T cells, reduced the frequency of activated microglia/macrophages within the CNS and decreased the number of migrating cell to spinal cord and cerebellum at the peak of the disease. These results suggest that CTX is a potential treatment not only for pain alteration but also for clinical progression induced by the disease as well as an useful tool for the development of new therapeutic approaches for the multiple sclerosis control.

Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and hypertension risk: results of the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil).

We investigated whether high adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was independently associated with lower risk of incident hypertension. Participants included 5632 adults, without hypertension at the baseline (2008-2010) of the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health, who took part in the second follow-up visit (2012-2014). Adherence to the DASH diet was estimated at baseline using a score based on eight food items (final scores from 8 to 40 points) and was categorised as high adherence (≥30 points, or ≥75 %) and low adherence (<75 %; reference). Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥140 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive drugs. The association between adherence to the DASH diet and the risk of incident hypertension was estimated using Cox regression models adjusted by covariates. In total, 780 new cases of hypertension (13·8 %) were identified in about 3·8-year follow-up. Participants with high adherence to the DASH diet had 26 % lower risk of hypertension (hazard ratio (HR) 0·74; 95 % CI 0·57, 0·95) after adjustment for socio-demographic characteristics, health-related behaviours, diabetes and family history of hypertension. The HR reduced to 0·81 (95 % CI 0·63, 1·04) and was of borderline statistical significance after adjustment for BMI, suggesting that lower body weight explains about 10 % of the association between high adherence to the DASH diet and hypertension risk reduction. The results indicate that high adherence to the DASH diet lowered the risk of hypertension by one-fourth over a relatively short follow-up period.

Skin tests and challenge-based drug allergy diagnosis: a retrospective study of patients with confirmed drug allergy.

Summary: Objectives. To describe clinical manifestations and performed diagnostic workup, focusing drug challenge tests (DCT), in patients with drug allergy. Methods. Retrospective study including all patients with skin tests (STs) or DCT-based drug allergy diagnosis, between 01/2014 - 06/2018 in a Portuguese allergy unit. Data were collected from electronic and paper-based clinical records. Results. We had 75 drug allergy diagnoses. Most index reactions were mild and major or equal 1 hour after drug intake. 59 (78%) diagnoses were based on DCTs, all based on multistep protocols with major or equal 3 predicted steps. Only 10% of the DCT were positive during up-dosing; timing and severity of the index reaction predicted DCT interruption during up-dosing. Conclusions. Most drug allergy diagnoses were based on multistep DCT. The identified predictors of DCT interruption during up-dosing can support the development of more personalized DCTs protocols.

Respiratory gases, air pollution and epilepsy.

A growing number of studies have shown that exposure to air pollutants such as particulate matter and gases can cause cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. The severity of the changes depends on several factors such as exposure time, age and gender. Inflammation has been considered as one of the main factors associated with the generation of these diseases. Here we present some cellular mechanisms activated by air pollution that may represent risk factors for epilepsy and drug resistance associated to epilepsy.

Assessing epidemiology of leprosy and socio-economic distribution of cases.

Leprosy still represents a serious health problem in a number of countries, including Brazil. Although leprosy has been associated with poverty for a long time, it is still difficult to accurately define this relationship. Here, we evaluated in an endemic municipality the progress from 1995 to 2015 of epidemiological indicators to establish if there were any strong associations between social indicators and the occurrence of leprosy. An ecological study was conducted using the SINAN database (Brazilian leprosy-national notifiable diseases information system) in combination with georeferencing of leprosy cases. The georeferencing used the ArcGis programme and occurrence of cases was evaluated in relation to the Health Vulnerability Index (HVI), an indicator that categorises socio-economic and sanitation factors. The data identified a marked decrease in the overall prevalence of leprosy, a reduction in the new case-detection rate and a reduction in the number of cases with grade 2 disabilities (albeit with transient peaks in 2007 and 2015). Logistic regression analysis showed association of detection rates with elevated HVI. Thus, while the epidemiological indicators point to the elimination of leprosy, there is evidence of hidden cases and an association between higher rates of leprosy detection and greater social vulnerability remain.

Mitochondrial genome analysis in penile carcinoma.

Penile cancer is a rare neoplasm that seems to be linked to socio-economic differences. Mitochondrial genome alterations are common in many tumors types and are reported as regulating oxidative metabolism and impacting tumorigenesis. In this study, we evaluate for the first time the mitochondrial genome in penile carcinoma (PeCa), aiming to evaluate heteroplasmy, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutational load and mtDNA content in Penile tumors. Using next generation sequencing (NGS), we sequenced the mitochondrial genome of 13 penile tumors and 12 non-neoplastic tissue samples, which allowed us to identify mtDNA variants and heteroplasmy. We further evaluated variant's pathogenicity using Mutpred predictive software and calculated mtDNA content using quantitative PCR. Mitochondrial genome sequencing revealed an increase number of non-synonymous variants in the tumor tissue, along with higher frequency of heteroplasmy and mtDNA depletion in penile tumors, suggesting an increased mitochondrial instability in penile tumors. We also described a list of mitochondrial variants found in penile tumor and normal tissue, including five novel variants found in the tumoral tissue. Our results showed an increased mitochondrial genome instability in penile tumors. We also suggest that mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and mtDNA variants may act together to imbalance mitochondrial function in PeCa. The better understanding of mitochondrial biology can bring new insights on mechanisms and open a new field for therapy in PeCa.

Molecular identification and physiological characterization of Zymomonas mobilis strains from fuel-ethanol production plants in north-east Brazil.

Zymomonas mobilis has long attracted attention owing to its capacity to ferment hexose to ethanol. From a taxonomic viewpoint, Z. mobilis is a unique species of the genus Zymomonas, separated into three subspecies, Z. mobilis subsp. mobilis, Z. mobilis subsp. pomaceae and Z. mobilis subsp. francensis on the basis of physiological tests, which are often unreliable owing to the genetic proximity among these species. Currently, the use of molecular techniques is more appropriate for identification of these bacterial subspecies. In this study, the 32 strains of Z. mobilis present in the UFPEDA bacterial collection were characterized using molecular techniques, such as sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene and its theoretical restriction profile, classifying them as members of the subspecies, Z. mobilis subsp. mobilis. In addition, anaerobic cultivations were performed, which showed the biological diversity of the strains in terms of growth, sugar consumption and ethanol production. From these results, it was possible to identify the strain Z-2-80 as a promising bacterium for use in the fermentation process. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Zymomonas mobilis is a bacterium of great relevance to biotechnology, owing to its capacity to ferment hexose to ethanol. On a molecular basis, 32 isolates were identified as Z. mobilis subsp. mobilis. However, intraspecific diversity was identified when these were grown under strictly anaerobic conditions. The results obtained from this study suggest a strain of Z. mobilis as an alternative for use in the fermentation process.

Quinoline-azetidinone hybrids: Synthesis and in vitro antiproliferation activity against Hep G2 and Hep 3B human cell lines.

In search of new heterocyclic anticancer agents, a new quinoline-azetidinone hybrid template have been designed, synthesized and screened for their cytotoxic activity against human cancer cell lines such as Hep G2, and Hep 3B by the MTT assay and results were compared with paclitaxel, 5-fluorouracil and doxorubicin. Interestingly, some of the compounds were found significantly active against both cell lines. The compound 6f (IC50=0.04±0.01µM) exhibited potent antiproliferation activity against Hep G2 cell line, and 6j compound (IC50=0.66±0.01µM) demonstrated potent antiproliferation activity against Hep 3B cell line and provide to be more potent as cytotoxic agents than standard drugs. Morphological changes suggest the induction of apoptosis and describe the mechanism of action of these hybrid antitumor agents.

Analysis of melanopsin gene expression in the rabbit retina at different ages.

Melanopsin is the photopigment of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells that mediate non-visual responses to light. The aim of this study was to describe and analyze melanopsin gene expression in the rabbit retina at different ages and compare its expression with the prototypic gene of retinal ganglion cells (Thy-1 gene). Expression levels of OPN4, Thy-1, and GADPH genes were measured by real-time PCR at 3, 4, 8, 11, 12, 17, 19, 20, 23, 27, 32, and 47 postnatal days. We also regrouped the days before and after day 12 of life (pre-photic and post-photic stage, respectively). Average expression of the OPN4 gene between days was similar (P = 0.713), but was statistically different in the Thy-1 gene (P = 0.004). Also, no significant differences were found in OPN4 gene expression pre-photic and post-photic stage (P = 0.629); however, Thy-1 expression was higher in the pre-photic stage, almost double, than in the post-photic stage, with significant differences (P = 0.001). This is the first report describing OPN4 gene expression in the rabbit retina at different ages. We demonstrated that the OPN4 gene is constantly expressed at all early stages, even before the onset of photoentrainment by the pups and that Thy-1 and OPN4 gene expressions are out of phase.

Wheat gluten intake increases weight gain and adiposity associated with reduced thermogenesis and energy expenditure in an animal model of obesity.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The association between gluten and body weight is inconsistent. Previously, we showed that a gluten-free diet reduces weight gain without changing food intake in mice fed high-fat diets. In the present study, we investigated the effects of gluten intake on fat metabolism, thermogenesis and energy expenditure in mice fed a standard or high-fat diet. METHODS: Mice were fed four different experimental diets during 8 weeks: a control-standard diet (CD), a CD added with 4.5% of wheat gluten (CD-G), a high-fat diet (HFD) and a HFD added with 4.5% of wheat gluten (HFD-G). After 8 weeks, the mice received (99m)Tc-radiolabeled gluten orally to study gluten absorption and biodistribution or they underwent indirect calorimetry. After killing, subcutaneous and brown adipose tissues (SAT and BAT) were collected to assess thermogenesis-related protein expression. Lipid metabolism was studied in adipocyte cultures from the four groups. RESULTS: Despite having had the same energy intake, CD-G and HFD-G mice exhibited increased body weight and fat deposits compared with their respective controls. (99m)Tc-GLU or its peptides were detected in the blood, liver and visceral adipose tissue, suggesting that gluten can even reach extraintestinal organs. Uncoupling protein-1 expression was reduced in the BAT of HFD-G and in the SAT of CD-G and HFD-G mice. Indirect calorimetry showed lower oxygen volume consumption in CD-G and HFD-G groups compared with their controls. In HFD mice, daily energy expenditure was reduced with gluten intake. Gluten also reduced adiponectin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and PPARγ and hormone-sensitive lipase in cultures of isolated adipocytes from HFD mice, whereas in the CD-G group, gluten intake increased interleukin-6 expression and tended to increase that of tumor necrosis factor. CONCLUSIONS: Wheat gluten promotes weight gain in animals on both HFD and CD, partly by reducing the thermogenic capacity of adipose tissues.

Synergism of thymol, carvacrol and eugenol in larvae of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus, and brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus.

The effects of combinations of the monoterpenes thymol and carvacrol and the phenylpropanoid eugenol in larvae of Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888) (Acari: Ixodidae) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) (Acari: Ixodidae) were assessed by the larval packet test. The CompuSyn program was used to make qualitative assessments of the effects (synergistic, additive and antagonistic) of the associations. The effects of all combinations tested against R. microplus larvae were synergistic, with combination indices (CIs) <0.70. When tested against R. sanguineus, eight of the mixtures showed a synergistic effect (CI < 0.70); only the carvacrol + thymol mixture at LC50 presented a moderate synergistic effect, with CIs between 0.70-0.90. This study is the first to determine the effects of the interactions of these substances in the control of these two tick species. The combinations of carvacrol + thymol, carvacrol + eugenol and thymol + eugenol have synergistic effects in R. microplus and R. sanguineus s.l. larvae.

Molecular-based diagnosis of respiratory allergic diseases in children from Curitiba, a city in Southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Prevalence of respiratory allergic diseases has increased worldwide. Identification of the aeroallergens involved in allergenic sensitisation is important for diagnosis, treatment and prevention. OBJECTIVE: To verify the molecular pattern of sensitisation to aeroallergens in patients with allergic respiratory diseases using microarray technique for specific IgE antibody detection. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 101 children with allergic rhinitis was followed in an outpatient clinic. All patients had positive skin prick tests (SPT) to at least one of the following antigens: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Blomia tropicalis, Blattella germanica, Lolium multiflorum, and dog and cat epithelium. Serum specific IgE antibodies (sIgE) to mites, animal epithelia, fungi, cockroach and pollens components were determined by ImmunoCAP ISAC. RESULTS: sIgE to group 1 and 2 mite allergens showed higher positive rates: Der p 1 (74.2%), Der p 2 (73.3%), Der f 1 (74.2%), Der f 2 (72.3%). sIgE to animal epithelia were less frequent, Can f 1, Can f 2, Can f 3 in 4.9%, 2.9%, 1.9% respectively and Fel d 1, Fel d 2, Fel d 4 in 16.8%, 0.9% and 1.9%. respectively. Sensitisation to fungi and cockroach were rare, except for Bla g 7, to which 16.8% were positive. There was no significant recognition for tree pollens group. For grass, sIgE were detected to Cyn d 1 in 16.8%, Phl p 1 and Phl p 4 in 14.8% and 12.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Knowing that the pattern of allergic sensitisation varies according to environment and population, our results reinforce the need for local studies, using molecular-based diagnosis.

Differential interactions between Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens and common bean.

Bacterial wilt of common bean caused by Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens is an important disease in terms of economic importance. It reduces grain yield by colonizing xylem vessels, subsequently impeding the translocation of water and nutrients to the superior plant parts. The existence of physiological races in C. flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens has not so far been reported. The objective of the present investigation was to identify physiological races, evaluate differential interaction, and select resistant genotypes of common bean. Initially, 30 genotypes of common bean were inoculated with eight isolates exhibiting different levels of aggressiveness, under controlled greenhouse conditions. Disease was assessed 15 days after inoculation. The existence of differential interactions between C. flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens isolates and common bean genotypes were identified by utilizing partial diallel analysis. The most aggressive isolates were BRM 14939 and BRM 14942 and the least aggressive isolates were BRM 14941 and BRM 14946. The genotypes IPA 9, Ouro Branco, and Michelite were selected as more resistant among the test isolates. The genotypes IAC Carioca Akytã, BRS Notável, Pérola, IAC Carioca Aruã, and Coquinho contributed more to the isolate x genotype interaction according to the ecovalence method of estimation, and were, therefore, indicated as differentials. Based on these results, it was possible to conclude that physiological races of the pathogen exist, to select resistant genotypes, and to propose a set of differentials.