Leukoplakia and erythroplakia in youngers versus older individuals: a clinicopathological retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of oral cancer has exhibited a rise within the young population. Considering that oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) can precede the development of oral cancer, it is imperative to conduct studies in this particular younger population. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and conduct a comparative analysis of the clinical-demographic characteristics of OPMDs in two distinct age groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted with patients diagnosed with leukoplakia, erythroplakia, and leukoerythroplakia between 1965 and 2020. The individuals were categorized into two groups: those aged up to 40 years (Group Younger) and those aged 41 years and above (Group Older). RESULTS: A total of 640 lesions were subjected to analysis. Among these, patients aged up to 40 years constituted 10.63% of the sample, however, this proportion decreased significantly to 6.9% between 2010 and 2020. A predominant male representation was observed in both groups, with white lesions being the most common in both as well. However, the frequency of red or mixed lesions was significantly higher (p=0.034) in the older group, along with a higher prevalence of dysplastic lesions (26.9% versus 11.8%, p=0.01). Moreover, the older group exhibited a relatively higher percentage of smokers/ex-smokers (78.6%), compared to the younger group (61.5%, p=0.085) and alcohol consumers/ex-consumers (54.9% versus 22.7%, p=0.028). Elderly individuals exhibited an unfavorable progression (p=0.028). However, a logistic regression analysis identified as significant variables associated with malignant transformation, the presence of epithelial dysplasia, and red lesions diagnosed as erythroplakia. CONCLUSIONS: A declining frequency of OPMDs in young adults was observed over the years, whereas in older adults, these disorders exhibited an unfavorable progression.

Prevalence and factors associated with overweight and obesity in dogs presenting to French university veterinary teaching hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pet obesity is still a major health issue, which is considered an epidemic by some researchers. Prevention is one of the cornerstones of veterinary care, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures. Human lifestyle was affected during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an increased overweight prevalence in the population. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in dogs during this period has been poorly explored. This study's objectives were to assess the percentage of the French dog population with overweight and obesity, compare the results with a study conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, and investigate any potential changes in the risk factors. The study collected data through a survey completed by dog owners during their pets' vaccination visits at university veterinary hospitals of Maisons-Alfort (Paris) and Toulouse, in France, between 2020 and 2022. The veterinarian recorded the dog's weight and the body condition score using a 9-point scale. The study included a total of 309 dogs. Of these, 1.6 % were underweight, 63.1 % had an ideal body condition, and 35.3 % were overweight, including 2.3 % of all dogs classified as obese. During the pandemic, French dog diets shifted towards increased commercial food consumption and twice-daily feedings compared to a 2003 study. Factors positively associated with overweight were being female (OR = 3.55; 95 % CI: 1.65-8.01; P=0.002), being senior (OR=4.91; 95 % CI: 2.07-12.2; P<0.001) or geriatric (OR=5.81; 95 % CI: 2.04-17.0; P=0.001) and having an owner underestimating dog's body condition (OR=74.1; 95 % CI: 29.8-215; P<0.001). Recognizing the impact of owner perception enables early intervention strategies, such as educating owners during consultations and conducting teaching sessions at the clinic. This proactive approach could contribute to improved health outcomes and help prevent the onset of obesity-related issues in dogs. The new trends in dogs' diets may have global relevance due to the pandemic's widespread impact. Although no immediate impact on overweight is evident, ongoing research is crucial to understand the pandemic's long-term effects.

Spatial analysis of the risk for canine visceral leishmaniasis in an urban area in the State of Sergipe.

Visceral Leishmaniasis is included among the neglected tropical diseases, being directly related to conditions of social vulnerability, in urban environments, dogs act as important reservoirs. The aim of the study was to evaluate the distribution of dogs, related risk factors and identify of volatile organic compounds from infected dogs. Peripheral blood samples from 72 dogs were collected for detection using the ELISA test, in addition to hair samples for analysis by GC-MS. Of the evaluated dogs, 13 (18.05%/72) were reactive for canine VL, seven in Aracaju and six in Propriá. Factors related to vegetation, age, place where the dog stays and free access to the street, were associated with a greater chance of the dog becoming infected. Fifty-three compounds were identified from ten canine hair samples, among which 2-butoxyethanol, benzaldehyde, decane, 2-phenylacetaldehyde, nonan-1-ol, 2-phenoxyethanol, nonanoic acid, 8-heptadecene and eicosane were found in seropositive dogs for leishmaniasis. The guardian's posture has been increasingly important, requiring more attention to the dog's health and actions aimed at environmental management in an attempt to reduce cases of canine VL in the state. Even though the identified VOCs have not been associated with leishmanial infection, it is of great use for understanding canine hair substances.

Dapagliflozin in patients with critical illness: rationale and design of the DEFENDER study.

BACKGROUND: Critical illness is a major ongoing health care burden worldwide and is associated with high mortality rates. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors have consistently shown benefits in cardiovascular and renal outcomes. The effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in acute illness have not been properly investigated. METHODS: DEFENDER is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, randomized, open-label trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin in 500 adult participants with acute organ dysfunction who are hospitalized in the intensive care unit. Eligible participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive dapagliflozin 10mg plus standard of care for up to 14 days or standard of care alone. The primary outcome is a hierarchical composite of hospital mortality, initiation of kidney replacement therapy, and intensive care unit length of stay, up to 28 days. Safety will be strictly monitored throughout the study. CONCLUSION: DEFENDER is the first study designed to investigate the use of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor in general intensive care unit patients with acute organ dysfunction. It will provide relevant information on the use of drugs of this promising class in critically ill patients. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV REGISTRY: NCT05558098.

Dapagliflozin in patients with critical illness: rationale and design of the DEFENDER study / Dapagliflozina em pacientes com doença crítica: justificativa e desenho do estudo DEFENDER

ABSTRACT Background: Critical illness is a major ongoing health care burden worldwide and is associated with high mortality rates. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors have consistently shown benefits in cardiovascular and renal outcomes. The effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in acute illness have not been properly investigated. Methods: DEFENDER is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, randomized, open-label trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin in 500 adult participants with acute organ dysfunction who are hospitalized in the intensive care unit. Eligible participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive dapagliflozin 10mg plus standard of care for up to 14 days or standard of care alone. The primary outcome is a hierarchical composite of hospital mortality, initiation of kidney replacement therapy, and intensive care unit length of stay, up to 28 days. Safety will be strictly monitored throughout the study. Conclusion: DEFENDER is the first study designed to investigate the use of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor in general intensive care unit patients with acute organ dysfunction. It will provide relevant information on the use of drugs of this promising class in critically ill patients. ClinicalTrials.gov registry: NCT05558098

RESUMO Antecedentes: A doença crítica é um importante ônus permanente da assistência médica em todo o mundo e está associada a altas taxas de mortalidade. Os inibidores do cotransportador de sódio-glicose do tipo 2 têm demonstrado consistentemente benefícios nos desfechos cardiovasculares e renais. Os efeitos dos inibidores do cotransportador de sódio-glicose do tipo 2 em doenças agudas ainda não foram devidamente investigados. Métodos: O DEFENDER é um estudo de iniciativa do investigador, multicêntrico, randomizado, aberto, desenhado para avaliar a eficácia e a segurança da dapagliflozina em 500 participantes adultos com disfunção orgânica aguda hospitalizados na unidade de terapia intensiva. Os participantes aptos serão randomizados 1:1 para receber 10mg de dapagliflozina e o tratamento padrão por até 14 dias ou apenas o tratamento padrão. O desfecho primário é um composto hierárquico de mortalidade hospitalar, início de terapia renal substitutiva e tempo de internação na unidade de terapia intensiva, até 28 dias. O monitoramento da segurança será rigoroso durante todo o estudo. Conclusão: O DEFENDER é o primeiro estudo desenvolvido para investigar o uso de um inibidor do cotransportador de sódio-glicose do tipo 2 em pacientes de unidade de terapia intensiva geral com disfunção orgânica aguda. O estudo fornecerá informações relevantes sobre o uso de medicamentos dessa classe promissora em pacientes críticos. Registro ClincalTrials.gov: NCT05558098

Cognitive impairments associated with chemotherapy in women with breast cancer: a meta-analysis and meta-regression

Chemotherapy is one of the most widely used treatments for breast cancer (BC). However, there is evidence of side effects like cognitive changes related to the chemotherapy treatment. The aim of the study was not only to summarize the existing evidence on the relationship between chemotherapy and cognitive performance in women with BC but also to identify additional consequences and aspects associated with these impairments. We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression to present updated information on the matter. We retrieved data from the databases PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus. Twenty studies comprising over 2,500 women were examined and the results indicated that chemotherapy can compromise cognition in women with BC (-1.10 OR [95%CI: -1.81 to -0.74], P<0.01), with working memory (-0.49 OR [95%CI: -0.85 to -0.13], P=0.03) being the most affected among the domains. Furthermore, additional data indicated that cognitive impairment is most likely amid women with BC having a lower education level (Q=4.85, P=0.02). Our results suggested that chemotherapy affects cognitive functions in women with BC, and certain characteristics can worsen the deterioration. A comprehensive study of women with breast cancer and existing predictors contributes to optimized personal journeys, elevated life prospects, and advanced care that can also aid prognosis and therapeutic approaches.

Cellular consequences of small supernumerary marker chromosome derived from chromosome 12: mosaicism in daughter and father

Constitutional genomic imbalances are known to cause malformations, disabilities, neurodevelopmental delay, and dysmorphia and can lead to dysfunctions in the cell cycle. In extremely rare genetic conditions such as small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMC), it is important to understand the cellular consequences of this extra marker, as well the factors that contribute to their maintenance or elimination through successive cell cycles and phenotypic impact. The study of chromosomal mosaicism provides a natural model to characterize the effect of aneuploidy on genome stability and compare cells with the same genetic background and environment exposure, but differing in the presence of sSMC. Here, we report the functional characterization of different cell lines from two familial patients with mosaic sSMC derived from chromosome 12. We performed studies of proliferation dynamics, stability, and variability of these cells using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), sister chromatid exchanges (SCE), and conventional staining. We also quantified the telomere-related genomic instability of sSMC cells using 3D telomeric profile analysis by quantitative-FISH. sSMC cells exhibited differences in the cell cycle dynamics compared to normal cells. First, the sSMC cells exhibited lower proliferation index and higher frequency of SCE than normal cells, associated with a higher level of chromosomal instability. Second, sSMC cells exhibited more telomeric-related genomic instability. Lastly, the differences of sSMC cells distribution among tissues could explain different phenotypic repercussions observed in patients. These results will help in our understanding of the sSMC stability, maintenance during cell cycle, and the cell cycle variables involved in the different phenotypic manifestations.

Impact of cigarette smoke and aerobic physical training on histological and molecular markers of prostate health in rats

Recent evidence suggests that aerobic physical training may attenuate the deleterious effects of cancer risk factors, including smoking. We investigated the effects of cigarette smoke inhalation and aerobic physical training on the expression of steroid receptors and inflammatory and apoptotic proteins in the prostate. Forty male Wistar rats were distributed in four groups: control (CO), exercise (EXE), cigarette smoke exposure (CS), and cigarette smoke exposure with exercise (CS+EXE). For eight weeks, animals were repeatedly exposed to cigarette smoke for 30 min or performed aerobic physical training either with or without the cigarette smoke inhalation protocol. Following these experiments, we analyzed prostate epithelial morphology and prostatic expression of androgen (AR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR), insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2), BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) via immunohistochemistry. Cigarette smoke exposure stimulated the expression of AR, IGF-1, BCL-2, and NF-κB while downregulating BAX, IL-6, and TNF-α labeling in the prostate. In contrast, aerobic physical training attenuated cigarette smoke-induced changes in AR, GR, IGF-1, BCL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB. This suggests that cigarette smoke stimulates inflammation and reduces apoptosis, culminating in increased prostatic epithelial and extracellular matrices, whereas physical training promoted beneficial effects towards maintaining normal prostate morphology and protein levels.

Correção de medida ultrassonográfica de carcaça em coelhos usando modelo linear misto com covariáveis / Correction ultrasonographic measurement of carcass in rabbits using mixed linear Model with covariates

Objetivou-se avaliar a correção da medida ultrassonográfica da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi, em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia, pela análise de covariância usando modelos mistos. Foram realizadas análises em delineamento em blocos completos ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos (operadores) e seis blocos (animais), considerando na análise: a inexistência de covariáveis; a covariável comprimento de olho de lombo; a covariável profundidade de olho de lombo; e as duas covariáveis juntas. Como os animais são uma amostra aleatória, o efeito de bloco foi considerado como aleatório. Consideraram-se as covariáveis como medidas com efeito fixo sem erro, independentemente do tratamento e do comportamento linear. As estatísticas de critério de decisão CV%, R ² e R ¯ ² evidenciaram relação direta entre si e podem ser consideradas para avaliar a precisão experimental em ensaios com avaliação de carcaças. Os valores das estatísticas AIC, BIC e AICC apresentam coerência com a interpretação dos critérios de decisão e indicam que o modelo com duas covariáveis proporciona resultados acurados. A inclusão das covariáveis complementa o controle de local com melhoria na precisão do experimento. A utilização das medidas ultrassonográficas de profundidade e comprimento corrige a média da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi avaliado por diferentes operadores.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the correction ultrasonographic measurement of area the Longissimus dorsi muscle in New Zealand rabbits by covariance analysis using mixed linear models. The analyzes were performed in randomized block design with 5 treatments (operators) and 6 blocks (animals), considering in the analysis: absence of covariates; rib eye length as covariate; rib eye depth as covariate; the two covariates together. As the animals are a random sample, the block effect was considered to be random. The covariates were considered as measures of fixed effect without error, independent of treatment and linear comportment. The decision criterion statistics CV%, R², and R ¯ ²showed a direct relationship between them and can be taken into consideration to evaluate the experimental accuracy in tests with carcass evaluation. The AIC, BIC, and AICC statistics are consistent with the interpretation of the decision criteria and indicate that the two covariates in model provides accurate results. The inclusion of covariates complements the local control to improve the accuracy of the experiment. The use of ultrasound measurements of depth and length corrects the mean area of the Longissimus dorsi muscle evaluated by different operators.(AU)

Gota úrica visceral em bobo-pequeno (Puffinus puffinus) no sul do Brasil / Visceral gout uric in manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) in Southern of Brazil

A gota úrica visceral é uma doença que acomete répteis, aves e mamíferos. Caracteriza-se por depósitos de cristais de urato e ácido úrico em diferentes órgãos da região visceral. O objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar um caso de gota úrica visceral em um indivíduo de bobo-pequeno (Puffinus puffinus) encontrado morto no litoral norte de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil. No período de 20 de agosto de 2015 a 20 de abril de 2016, as praias dos municípios de Araquari, Barra do Sul, São Francisco do Sul e Itapoá foram monitoradas diariamente para o registro e a recuperação de tetrápodes marinhos mortos, incluindo aves marinhas. Foram encontrados e necropsiados 84 indivíduos. Um deles apresentou o pericárdio aderido ao miocárdio e com a coloração esbranquiçada. Os rins, o fígado e os pulmões continham inúmeros pontos esbranquiçados. A ocorrência dessa patologia na espécie foi de 1,19%. Trata-se do primeiro relato de bobo-pequeno com gota úrica visceral encontrado no Brasil.(AU)

Visceral gout uric is a disease that affects reptiles, birds and mammals. It is characterized by urate crystal deposits and uric acid in different organs of visceral region. The objective of this study was to report a case of visceral urica drop in a manx shearwater individual (Puffinus puffinus) found dead on the north coast of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil. In the period from 20 August 2015 and 20 April 2016, beaches in the municipalities of Araquari, Barra do Sul, São Francisco do Sul and Itapoá, were monitored daily for the registration and recovery of dead marine tetrapods, including seabirds. Eighty-four were found and necropsied. One of them was whitish in color and had the pericardium adhered to the myocardium. The kidneys, liver and lungs contained numerous whitish dots. The occurrence of this disease in the species was 1.19%. This is the first manx shearwater report with visceral urica drop found in Brazil.(AU)

A dose-response curve for biodosimetry from a 6 MV electron linear accelerator

Biological dosimetry (biodosimetry) is based on the investigation of radiation-induced biological effects (biomarkers), mainly dicentric chromosomes, in order to correlate them with radiation dose. To interpret the dicentric score in terms of absorbed dose, a calibration curve is needed. Each curve should be constructed with respect to basic physical parameters, such as the type of ionizing radiation characterized by low or high linear energy transfer (LET) and dose rate. This study was designed to obtain dose calibration curves by scoring of dicentric chromosomes in peripheral blood lymphocytes irradiated in vitro with a 6 MV electron linear accelerator (Mevatron M, Siemens, USA). Two software programs, CABAS (Chromosomal Aberration Calculation Software) and Dose Estimate, were used to generate the curve. The two software programs are discussed; the results obtained were compared with each other and with other published low LET radiation curves. Both software programs resulted in identical linear and quadratic terms for the curve presented here, which was in good agreement with published curves for similar radiation quality and dose rates.

Avaliação da qualidade de águas purificadas utilizadas em farmácias de manipulação / Assessing the quality of purified water used in compounding pharmacies

The Brazilian Food, Drug and Sanitary Agency (ANVISA) published a Resolution (RDC 67) in 2007, repealing RDC 33 of 2000, which established a legally required monthly analysis of a number of microbiological and physicochemical variables in the purified water used in compounded pharmaceutical preparations, which were not specified in the preceding RDC. In view of the amendment, the aim of this study was to assess the quality of purified water used in compounding pharmacies in the region of Araraquara (SP, Brazil) and review the impact of the most recent regulation (RDC 67 of 2007) on this quality. In the study, 744 samples of purified water were collected from 30 pharmacies in the course of four years (2008 to 2011). The variables recorded were: presence of total coliforms and fecal coliforms/E. coli, pH, color, turbidity, total dissolved solids, fluoride and residual free chlorine. The methods used were pharmacopeial standards for water analysis, published by the Brazilian National Health Foundation (FUNASA) and the American Public Health Association (APHA). Among the samples, 78.90% were in compliance with the required standards. No sample contravened the rules for color and fecal coliforms/E. coli. However, 0.54%, 7.80%, 10.75%, 0.54% and 4.56% of the samples were unacceptable in terms of turbidity, fluorides, pH, free residual chlorine and total coliforms respectively. There was a variation in the number of irregular samples by comparing the years of 2008 and 2009 (20.26% and 26.71%, respectively) and the years of 2010 and 2011 (18.33% and 19.91%, respectively). Four years after the RDC n°. 67 of 2007, manipulation pharmacies are still adjusting to the rules, and it is important that ANVISA and others agencies continue monitoring to ensure the quality of purified water...

A RDC n° 67 de 2007, que revogou a RDC nº 33 de 2000, regulamentou análises mensais que avaliam parâmetros microbiológicos e físico-químicos em águas purificadas utilizadas em preparações magistrais, antes não especificados pela RDC n° 33 de 2000. Diante dessas alterações, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade de águas utilizadas em farmácias de manipulação em Araraquara e região e verificar o impacto da legislação mais recente (RDC nº 67 de 2007) nessa qualidade. Foram analisadas 744 amostras de água purificada em 30 farmácias no decorrer de quatro anos (2008 a 2011). Os parâmetros avaliados foram: presença de coliformes totais e coliformes termotolerantes/E.coli, pH, cor, turbidez, sólidos totais dissolvidos, fluoreto e cloro residual livre. Os métodos utilizados seguiram padrões de farmacopeias, da FUNASA e da APHA. Dentre as amostras analisadas 78,90% estavam em conformidade com os padrões estabelecidos. Não foram encontradas amostras irregulares quanto aos parâmetros cor e coliformes termotolerantes/E. coli. No entanto, 0,54%, 7,80%, 10,75%, 0,54% e 4,56% das amostras estavam irregulares para turbidez, fluoretos, pH, cloro residual livre e coliformes totais, respectivamente. Foi observada uma variação do número de amostras irregulares ao compararmos os anos de 2008 e 2009 (20,26% e 26,71% respectivamente) com os anos de 2010 e 2011 (18,33% e 19,91% respectivamente). Quatro anos após a RDC n° 67 de 2007, as farmácias de manipulação ainda estão se adequando às normas e é importante que a ANVISA e outros órgãos continuem a fiscalização para garantir a qualidade da água purificada...

Acute effect of alcohol intake on sine-wave Cartesian and polar contrast sensitivity functions

The aim of this study was to assess contrast sensitivity for angular frequency stimuli as well as for sine-wave gratings in adults under the effect of acute ingestion of alcohol. We measured the contrast sensitivity function (CSF) for gratings of 0.25, 1.25, 2.5, 4, 10, and 20 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd) as well as for angular frequency stimuli of 1, 2, 4, 24, 48, and 96 cycles/360°. Twenty adults free of ocular diseases, with normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity, and no history of alcoholism were enrolled in two experimental groups: 1) no alcohol intake (control group) and 2) alcohol ingestion (experimental group). The average concentration of alcohol in the experimental group was set to about 0.08%. We used a paradigm involving a forced-choice method. Maximum sensitivity to contrast for sine-wave gratings in the two groups occurred at 4 cpd sine-wave gratings and at 24 and 48 cycles/360° for angular frequency stimuli. Significant changes in contrast sensitivity were observed after alcohol intake compared with the control condition at spatial frequency of 4 cpd and 1, 24, and 48 cycles/360° for angular frequency stimuli. Alcohol intake seems to affect the processing of sine-wave gratings at maximum sensitivity and at the low and high frequency ends for angular frequency stimuli, both under photopic luminance conditions.

Differential effects of aging on spatial contrast sensitivity to linear and polar sine-wave gratings

Changes in visual function beyond high-contrast acuity are known to take place during normal aging. We determined whether sensitivity to linear sine-wave gratings and to an elementary stimulus preferentially processed in extrastriate areas could be distinctively affected by aging. We measured spatial contrast sensitivity twice for concentric polar (Bessel) and vertical linear gratings of 0.6, 2.5, 5, and 20 cycles per degree (cpd) in two age groups (20-30 and 60-70 years). All participants were free of identifiable ocular disease and had normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity. Participants were more sensitive to Cartesian than to polar gratings in all frequencies tested, and the younger adult group was more sensitive to all stimuli tested. Significant differences between sensitivities of the two groups were found for linear (only 20 cpd; P<0.01) and polar gratings (all frequencies tested; P<0.01). The young adult group was significantly more sensitive to linear than to circular gratings in the 20 cpd frequency. The older adult group was significantly more sensitive to linear than to circular gratings in all spatial frequencies, except in the 20 cpd frequency. The results suggest that sensitivity to the two kinds of stimuli is affected differently by aging. We suggest that neural changes in the aging brain are important determinants of this difference and discuss the results according to current models of human aging.

Aspectos ambientais e genéticos da prolificidade em caprinos utilizando modelos bayesianos de limiar e linear / Environmental and genetic aspects of litter size in goats using linear and threshold bayesian models

Foram estimados os componentes de variância e os parâmetros genéticos da característica prolificidade, utilizando-se inferência bayesiana sob modelo animal linear e de limiar. A prolificidade de cabras mestiças foi estudada com informações referentes ao período de oito anos consecutivos. As análises foram realizadas com cadeias de 500.000 ciclos. Considerou-se burn-in dos 15.000 valores iniciais, sendo tomados valores a cada 250 ciclos, para se obter a distribuição a posteriori com 1.940 amostras. Os efeitos do mês de cobrição e da ordem de parto e o efeito linear do peso à cobrição foram significativos. As herdabilidades foram de 0,03 e 0,18 para o modelo linear e o modelo de limiar, respectivamente. O uso do modelo de limiar mostrou-se adequado, produzindo estimativas superiores acerca dos parâmetros estimados.

Variance components and genetic parameters of the litter size trait, using Bayesian inference under linear and threshold animal model were estimated. The litter size of crossbred goats was studied with information regarding a period of eight consecutive years. Analyses were performed with 500,000 cycle chains. The burn-in of the 15,000 baseline values was considered and these were taken every 250 cycles to obtain a posteriori distribution with 1,940 effective samples. Statistical analyses showed that the effects of coverage month, delivery order and linear effect of weight on coverage were significant. The heritabilities were 0.03 and 0.18 for linear and threshold models respectively. The threshold model proved to be suitable, producing higher estimates regarding the estimated parameters.

Atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana dos extratos de própolis e açaí (Euterpe oleracea mart) / Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of propolis and açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart) extracts

A própolis é uma resina natural que apresenta diversas ações biológicas devido a presença de fenólicos, especialmente flavonóides, em sua composição. O fruto do açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart) é fonte de antocianinas, que também pertencem ao grupo dos flavonóides. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito antioxidante e antimicrobiano dos extratos de açaí e propolis em associação. A atividade antimicrobiana foi avaliada por ensaio em caldo enriquecido e a atividade antioxidante foi avaliada pelo método do sequestro de radicais DPPH. Os resultados mostraram que o extrato de própolis em pequenas concentrações apresentou atividade sobre o crescimento de S. aureus e S. epidermidis, e que ambos os extratos apresentaram atividade antioxidante. Foi possível concluir que ocorreu sinergismo entre os extratos de própolis e de açaí em relação à atividade antioxidante, bem como esta associação poderá apresentar atividade antimicrobiana caso o extrato de própolis seja utilizado em quantidade suficiente na formulação. Assim, esses extratos podem ser usados em formulações para uso tópico para prevenir o envelhecimento da pele e, possivelmente, transtornos causados pelos microrganismos empregados no estudo.

Propolis is a natural resin, collected mainly by the honey bee, Apis mellifera, which has been shown to have many biological roles, including antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, both conferred by phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids. The fruit of the açai palm is an important source of anthocyanins, which are also phenolics of the flavonoid group. The aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of a mixture of propolis and açai extracts. Antimicrobial activity was assessed by BHI broth culture with diluted extract, followed by agar subculture, while antioxidant activity was assessed by the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The results showed that around 2% of the propolis extract showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis, while low concentrations of both the ethanolic propolis and aqueous açai extracts, alone and combined, exhibited antioxidant activity. In conclusion, this study showed that the antioxidant effects of propolis and açai were summed in the mixed extracts. Furthermore, this combination would show antimicrobial activity if the minimum inhibitory concentration of propolis extract established in this study were used in the formulation. Hence, these extracts could be mixed into formulations used topically to prevent skin aging and, possibly, disorders caused by microbes, such as acne.

Avaliação da composição e qualidade físico-química do leite pasteurizado padronizado comercializado na cidade de São Luís, MA / Evaluation of the composition and physical and chemical quality of standardized pasteurized milk marketed in the city of São Luís, MA, Brazil

Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar a composição e a qualidade físico-química do leite pasteurizado padronizado comercializado na Cidade de São Luis, MA, verificar se estavam dentro dos padrões estabelecidos pela Instrução Normativa nº 51 do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento e observar a ocorrência de fraudes econômicas como adição de água, através da densidade e crioscopia. Foram coletadas 20 amostras de leite pasteurizado padronizado durante o mês de maio de 2009, no comércio local da cidade. Foram realizadas análises de acidez, densidade, índice crioscópico, EST, ESD, proteína, gordura, cinzas, prova de peroxidase e fosfatase alcalina. Das 20 amostras analisadas, verificou-se que a densidade variou de 1,020 a 1,027 g/mL; a acidez de 10 a 14ºD; a gordura de 2,5 a 3,8%; o EST de 8,6 a 11,36%; ESD 6,1 a 7,86%; crioscopia 0,414 a 0,505ºC; proteínas de 2,4 a 3,32% e cinzas de 0,49 a 0,95%, a % de água adicionada variou de 1,27 a 17,83%. Todas as amostras apresentaram fosfatase negativa e peroxidase positiva. Com relação aos resultados obtidos, pode-se concluir que se apresentaram de forma geral insatisfatórios, evidenciando, principalmente, fraude do produto. Portanto, torna-se necessária a adoção de medidas de fiscalização por parte das autoridades competentes e maior conscientização das indústrias e consumidores.

The objective of this study to evaluate the composition and physico-chemical quality of standardized pasteurized milk marketed in São Luis, MA, Brazil, verify whether it was within the standards established by Instruction No. 51 of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, and observe the occurrence of any economic fraud such as adding water, by measuring the density and freezing point. We collected 20 samples of standardized pasteurized milk during the month of May 2009, at a local town market. These were analyzed for acidity, density, cryoscopy, TS, SNF, protein, fat, ash, proof of peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase. Of the 20 samples analyzed, it was found that the density ranged from 1.020 to 1.027 g/mL; acidity from 10 to 14°D; fat from 2.5 to 3.8%; TS 8.6 to 11.36%; SNF 6.1 to 7.86%; freezing point 0.414 to 0.505°C; proteins from 2.4 to 3.32%; ash 0.49 to 0.95%; while the percentage of water added ranged from 1.27 to 17.83%. All samples were phosphatase negative and peroxidase positive. Regarding the results obtained, we can conclude that they were generally poor, showing mainly product fraud. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt measures for control by the relevant authorities and to raise awareness within the industries and among consumers.

Qualidade de silagem de cultivares de brachiaria brizantha ensilado com diferentes níveis de farelo de milheto / Silage quality of brachiaria brizantha cultivars ensiled with different levels of millet meal

The silage quality of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars ensiled with different levels of millet meal was evaluated. The experimental design was a completely randomized with three replications in a factorial 3 x 4, with three cultivars of Brachiaria brizantha: marandu, xaraés, and piatã and four levels of millet meal 0, 5, 10, and 15 percent. The addition of millet meal improved the quality of B. brizantha silage. The inclusion of the additive at 15 percent provided the best nutritional values. The piatã silage had the lowest contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and lignin and the highest content of total digestible nutrients, being a better quality silage as compared to those of xaraés and marandu grasses.

Avaliou-se a qualidade de silagem de cultivares de Brachiaria brizantha ensilados com diferentes níveis de farelo de milheto. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente ao acaso, com três repetições, em esquema fatorial 3 x 4, sendo, três cultivares de Brachiaria brizantha: marandu, xaraés e piatã e quatro níveis de farelo de milheto: 0, 5, 10 e 15 por cento. A adição de farelo de milheto melhorou a qualidade das silagens de cultivares de B. brizantha. A inclusão de 15 por cento do aditivo proporcionou os melhores valores nutritivos. A silagem de capim-piatã apresentou os menores teores de fibra em detergente neutro, de fibra em detergente ácido e de lignina, e o maior teor de nutrientes digestíveis totais, mostrando ser de melhor qualidade quando comparada com as silagens de capim-xaraés e capim-marandu.

Promoter region sequence differences in the A and G gamma globin genes of Brazilian sickle cell anemia patients

Fetal hemoglobin (HbF), encoded by the HBG2 and HBG1 genes, is the best-known genetic modulator of sickle cell anemia, varying dramatically in concentration in the blood of these patients. This variation is partially associated with polymorphisms located in the promoter region of the HBG2 and HBG1 genes. In order to explore known and unknown polymorphisms in these genes, the sequences of their promoter regions were screened in sickle cell anemia patients and correlated with both their HbF levels and their ƒÀS-globin haplotypes. Additionally, the sequences were compared with genes from 2 healthy groups, a reference one (N = 104) and an Afro-descendant one (N = 98), to identify polymorphisms linked to the ethnic background.The reference group was composed by healthy individuals from the general population. Four polymorphisms were identified in the promoter region of HBG2 and 8 in the promoter region of HBG1 among the studied groups. Four novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) located at positions -324, -317, -309 and -307 were identified in the reference group. A deletion located between -396 and -391 in the HBG2 promoter region and the SNP -271 C¨T in the HBG1 promoter region were associated with the Central African Republic ƒÀS-globin haplotype. In contrast, the -369 C¨G and 309 A¨G SNPs in the HBG2 promoter region were correlated to the Benin haplotype. The polymorphisms -396_-391 del HBG2, -369 SNP HBG2 and -271 SNP HBG1 correlated with HbF levels. Hence, we suggest an important role of HBG2 and HBG1 gene polymorphisms on the HbF synthesis.

Avaliação da infecção por helmintos gastrintestinais em caprinos criados na região metropolitana do Recife - PE através de exame coproparasitológico e larva cultura

A caprinocultura é uma atividade de relevância social e econômica para o país, alcançando expansão significativa em váriasregiões brasileiras, principalmente na região Nordeste. Além dos problemas com manejo zootécnico e sanitário enfrentadospela caprinocultura brasileira, somam-se condições climáticas que favorecem o desenvolvimento de diferentes parasitoses,principalmente as helmintoses, sendo consideradas um entrave à expansão da caprinocultura no Brasil. Este trabalho tevecomo objetivo estudar as infecções por helmintos gastrintestinais em caprinos criados na região metropolitana do Recifeatravés da contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) e identificação de laNas de terceiro estágio obtidas em coproculturas.Foram utilizados em média 20 caprinos de uma propriedade localizada no município de Paulista dos quais, mensalmente, emdatas preestabelecidas, coletaram-se amostras de fezes individuais no período de agosto de 1998 a julho de 1999. ObseNouseum percentual de positividade de 82%. Das amostras examinadas, 72,8% apresentavam ovos tipo Strongyloidea, 8,4%Moniezia spp. e 2% Trichuris sp. Nas coproculturas foram identificadas laNas de terceiro estágio de Haemonchus sp. (75, 13%),Trichostrongylus spp. (24,32%) e Oesophagostomum spp. (0,54%). O número médio de laNas por grama de fezes para osgêneros Haemonchus e Trichostrongylus foi maior nos meses de maior precipitação pluviom