Perfil de citocinas Th1, Th2, Th17 y otras citocinas pro inflamatorias (IL-1ß, IL-6 y TNFα) en el plasma de pacientes con cáncer gástrico / Th1, Th2, Th17 cytokine profile and other pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNFα) in the plasma of patients with gastric cancer

El cáncer gástrico (CG) es la neoplasia del tubo digestivo más prevalente en el mundo, asociada a factores genéticos del hospedero y externos, como infección por Helicobacter pylori. La patogénesis incluye inflamación crónica mediada por citocinas del microambiente tumoral, detectables sistémicamente. Estudios previos reportan niveles séricos de citocinas y su contribución al diagnóstico de CG. El presente estudio analiza el perfil de citocinas del tipo de Th1(IFNγ), Th2(IL-4 e IL-10), Th17(Th-17A) y otras pro inflamatorias: IL-1ß, IL-6 y TNF-α, en plasma de 70 casos de pacientes con CG comparándolos con 132 sujetos sanos equiparables en edad y sexo. Los casos provinieron del Hospital Roosevelt e Instituto Nacional de Cancerología de Guatemala (Incan) y formaron parte de un estudio previo. Se analizó la base de datos clínicos, patológicos y epidemiológicos. Se midieron los niveles de citocinas utilizando el sistema "MSD MULTI-SPOT Assay System". La edad promedio de los casos fue 59.5 años, (DE 13.0), 51%, eran positivos para IgG anti H. pylori. Un 71% presentó adenocarcinoma grado III (Borrman), según clasificación de Lauren 55% tenían tipo intestinal. Las siete citocinas cuantificadas se encontraron significativamente elevadas (p < .05) en el plasma de los casos respecto a sus controles. Los casos de CG tipo difuso presentaron niveles de IFNγ significativa-mente elevados. Por regresión logística, las citocinas IL-6 e IL-10, están asociadas significativamente a CG (p < .05) independientemente del estatus de infección por H. pylori. Se destacan la IL-6 e IL-10 como las principales citocinas asociadas a la presencia de CG.

Gastric cancer (GC) is the most prevalent gastrointestinal neoplasm in the world, associated with host and external genetic factors, such as Helicobacter pylori infection. The pathogenesis includes chronic inflammation mediated by cytokines of the tumor microenvironment, systemically detectable. Previous studies report serum levels of cyto-kines and their contribution to the diagnosis of GC. The present study analyzes the profile of cytokines of the type Th1 (IFNγ), Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10), Th17 (Th-17A) and other pro-inflammatory: IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNF-α, in plasma of 70 cases of patients with GC compared with 132 healthy subjects comparable in age and sex. The cases came from the Roosevelt Hospital and the National Cancer Institute of Guatemala -Incan- and were part of a previous study. The clinical, pathological and epidemiological databases were analyzed. Cytokine levels were measured using the "MSD MULTI-SPOT Assay System". The average age of the cases was 59.5 years, (SD 13.0), 51% were positive for IgG anti H. pylori, 71% had grade III adenocarcinoma (Borrman), according to Laurenís classification, 55% had intestinal type. The seven cytokines quantified were found to be significantly elevated (p < .05) in the plasma of the cases compared to their controls. The diffuse GC cases presented significantly elevated IFNγ levels. By logistic regression, the cytokines IL-6 and IL-10 are significantly associated with GC (p < .05) regardless of the H. pylori infection status. IL-6 and IL-10 stand out as the main cytokines associated with the presence of GC.

Estudio de alteraciones neurocognitivas en pacientes infectados por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana / Study of neurocognitive alterations in patients infected by the human immunodeficiency virus

El virus de inmunodeficiencia humana, conocido por su impacto en el sistema inmunológico, ocasionamanifestacionesneurológicas progresivas con afectación cognitiva, perturbando funciones de atención, memoria, lenguaje, ejecución y procesamiento de la información, lo cual interfiere de forma negativa en la vida social, laboral y familiar del paciente. Objetivos: Evaluar las alteraciones de diferentes funciones neurocognitivas de los pacientes con infección por el virusde inmunodeficienciahumana, en una institución prestadora de servicios de salud de la cuidad de Ibagué - Colombia. Método: Se utilizó la Evaluación Cognitiva Montreal (MoCA), la cual fue diseñada como un instrumento ágil para determinar alteraciones cognitivas leves. La población objeto de estudio la constituyeron 44 pacientes portadores de virus de inmunodeficiencia humana, seleccionados dentro de un marco de muestreo no-probabilístico con muestra intencional o de conveniencia, entre los 14 y 75 años de edad. Resultados: Mayor deterioro neurocognitivo en los pacientes diagnosticados con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana de mayor edad; datos epidemiológicos indican que la edad más avanzada se asocia a una mayor prevalencia de desorden neurocognitivo asociado al virus de inmunodeficiencia humana. Conclusiones: El estudio de los mecanismos del deterioro neurocognitivo en pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana se hace cada vez más relevante, porque cada día aumenta su esperanza de vida, pero a su vez genera complicaciones con mayor predominio de la comorbilidad médica, psiquiátrica y neurológica(AU)

Introduction: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus, known for its impact on the immune system, causes progressive neurologic manifestations with cognitive impairment, disrupting attention functions, memory, language, execution and processing of information. The latter negatively interferes in social, work and family life of the patient. Objectives: To evaluate alterations in varied neurocognitive functions on patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virusinfection, at a health institution in Ibague, Colombia. Method: The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used. It was designed as a tool to determine mild cognitive alterations. The study population was made up of 44 carriers of Human Immunodeficiency Virus who were selected within a framework of non-probabilistic sampling and with purposive sample or convenience, between 14 and 75 years old. Results: Greater neurocognitive impairment in patients diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in legal age; someepidemiological data indicate that the older age is associated with a higher prevalence of neurocognitive disorder associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Conclusions: The study of the neurocognitive impairment mechanisms in patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus becomes increasingly more relevant, as their life expectancy increases daily. On the other hand, it causes complications with greater prevalence of medical psychiatric and neurological comorbidity(AU)

Plasma biochemistry values in wild female hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) during nesting in Mexican coast / Valores de bioquímica plasmática em tartaruga de pente (Eretmochelys imbricata) durante a época de desova na costa mexicana

To obtain plasma biochemistry values, blood was collected for 47 nesting females of apparently healthy Eretmochelys imbricata sea turtles using sodium heparin as an anticoagulant. Blood samples were collected in April-Jun for two years (nesting season). Hematologic characteristics, including packed cell volume, white blood cell counts, red blood cell count and hemoglobin level; and plasma chemistry values, including creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glucose were measured. The data generated from this study may be useful for clinical assessment of health and disease of wild hawksbill sea turtles on nearshore habitats in the Gulf of Mexico, thus contributing to a conservation of this species.(AU)

Para obter valores da bioquímica plasmática, foram coletadas amostras de sangue durante a desova de 47 tartarugas marinhas fêmeas aparentemente saudáveis da espécie Eretmochelys imbricata, utilizando heparina sódica como anticoagulante. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas durante dois anos entre os meses de abril e junho (época de nidificação). Mediu-se os parâmetros hematológicos (incluindo hematócrito, contagem de glóbulos brancos e vermelhos e nível de hemoglobina) e os valores da bioquímica plasmática (incluindo creatinina, ureia, ácido úrico, triglicérides, colesterol total e glicose). Os dados gerados a partir deste estudo podem ser úteis para a avaliação clínica de saúde e de doença em tartarugas-de-pente em habitats próximos ao litoral no Golfo do México, contribuindo para a conservação dessa espécie.(AU)

Proteinograma e concentração sérica de IgG em potros, do nascimento aos trinta dias de vida, tratados com plasma / Proteinogram and serum IgG concentration in newborn foals up to thirty days of life treated with plasma

Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o proteinograma e concentrações séricas de IgG (após a padronização de teste ELISA) em potros do nascimento aos trinta dias de idade, antes e depois de mamarem colostro e serem tratados com plasma por via intravenosa. Foram utilizados 20 potros e suas respectivas mães, além de quatro animais doadores de plasma. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue dos potros em cinco momentos, logo após o nascimento e antes de mamar colostro (M1), dez horas após nascimento (M2), 24 horas após nascimento e previamente administração do plasma sanguíneo (M3), 48 horas de vida e 24 horas após administração do plasma sanguíneo (M4), e 30 dias após nascimento (M5). Foram colhidos sangue e colostro das éguas progenitoras no momento do parto. A concentração de proteína total (PT) e albumina foram determinadas em analisador bioquímico, a concentração de PT também foi avaliada em refratômetro manual. O fracionamento proteico foi realizado utilizando eletroforese em gel de agarose. A densidade do colostro foi avaliada com colostrômetros de refração BRIX e de densidade específica. A concentração de IgG total de todas as amostras foi determinada por teste ELISA. Com o sistema de ELISA aqui proposto foi possível determinar concentrações de IgG em amostras de soro, plasma e colostro equino com adequada repetibilidade. A média ± desvio padrão da concentração sérica de IgG dos potros ao nascer, foi de 15±8mg/dL, com dez horas de vida foi de 2.408±608mg/dL, se manteve em níveis semelhantes até 48 horas (2.364±784mg/dL) e diminuíram significativamente aos 30 dias de vida (1.414±586mg/dL). A concentração sérica e colostral de IgG nas éguas foi de 1.746±505mg/dL e 7.714±2.619mg/dL, respectivamente. A concentração plasmática de IgG dos doadores de plasma foi de 2.026±148mg/dL. Houve correlação positiva entre as concentrações séricas de IgG e PT (r=0,69 para refratômetro e r=0,76 para bioquímico), GT (r=0,81) e gamaglobulina (r=0,85). Dez horas após o nascimento foi possível verificar a transferência de imunidade passiva, possibilitando adotar medidas profiláticas e/ou terapêuticas em haras de criação de cavalos. Considerando que a proteína total, globulinas totais e fração γ-globulina apresentam correlação com IgG, estas determinações são úteis para monitorar os potros após mamarem o colostro. Um litro de plasma administrado às 24 horas de vida não foi suficiente para aumentar as concentrações séricas de IgG, 24 horas após transfusão, em potros com adequada transferência de imunidade passiva.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate serum protein and serum IgG concentrations (after a direct enzyme immunoassay test ELISA optimization) in newborns foals from birth to thirty days of life before and after colostrum consumption and intravenous treatment with plasma. Twenty foals and their respective progenitors as well as four plasma donor's horses were used. Blood samples were obtained from newborn foals at five time points, immediately after birth and before colostrum intake (M1), ten hours after birth (M2), 24 hours after birth and prior administration of blood plasma (M3), 48 hours after birth and 24 hours after plasma administration (M4), and 30 days after birth (M5). Blood and colostrum samples were collected from the progenitor mares immediately postpartum. Concentration of total protein (TP) and albumin were determined using a biochemical analyzer. The TP concentration was also measured by refractometer. Fractions of total serum protein were separated using agarose gel electrophoresis. Colostrum density was evaluated using BRIX refractometer and specific density colostrometer. Total IgG concentration was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. With the ELISA system proposed here it was possible to determine IgG concentrations in serum, plasma, and equine colostrum samples with adequate repeatability. Serum IgG concentration in foals at birth was 15±8mg/dL (mean ± standard deviation) raising at ten hours (2,408±608mg/dL) and remaining at similar levels up to 48 hours of life (2,364±784mg/dL), and decreasing significantly at 30 days of age (1,414±586mg/dL). Serum and colostrum IgG concentrations of mares were 1,746±505mg/dL and 7,714±2,619mg/dL, respectively. The plasma IgG concentrations from donor mares were 2,026±148mg/dL. Total protein, total globulins, and γ-globulin fraction showed correlation with IgG. Ten hours post birth was an adequate time to verify the transfer of passive immunity, allowing to adoption prophylactic and/or therapeutic measures in a horse farms. One liter of plasma administered at 24 hours of life was not sufficient to raise serum IgG concentrations in foals without passive immunity transfer failure.(AU)

Padronização da quantificação do fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina I (IGF-I) em plasma bovino por ELISA / Standardization of ELISA for the measurement of Insulin-Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I) in bovine plasm

Esse estudo teve como objetivo a padronização de um ensaio imunoenzimático competitivo (cELISA) in house para a determinação das concentrações plasmáticas do fator de crescimento semelhante a insulina I (IGF-I) total para a espécie bovina, utilizando o sistema de amplificação biotina-estreptavidina peroxidase. O IGF-I foi extraído das proteínas ligadoras do fator de crescimento semelhante a insulina I (IGFBP), utilizando o tampão glicina acidificado seguido de neutralização do pH com hidróxido de sódio. As microplacas foram sensibilizadas com anti IgG de coelho, e as dosagens realizadas utilizando duas abordagens, um método com incubação prévia das amostras com o anticorpo anti-h-IGF-I e outro sem incubação prévia (adição simultânea de IGF-I biotilinado e amostra). Os melhores resultados foram obtidos utilizando o método sem incubação prévia, com a sensibilização da placa com 0,25µg/poço de anti-IgG de coelho, o anticorpo específico na diluição 1:250.000 e 0,06ng/poço de IGF-I biotinilado. O ensaio in house apresentou um limite inferior de detecção de 50ng/mL, uma correlação de 0,945 entre doses quando comparado a uma metodologia comercial. Os coeficientes de variação inter-ensaio de 12,94% (345,8ng/mL) para os controles alto e 20,71% (131,6ng/mL) para o baixo. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a metodologia imunoenzimática para quantificação de IGF-I total utilizando o sistema de amplificação biotina-estreptavidina peroxidase em um ensaio competitivo está estabelecida e apresenta-se como uma ferramenta útil para estudos que visem o monitoramento das concentrações de IGF-I.(AU)

This study aimed to standardize an in house competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) to determine plasma concentrations of total insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) for the bovine specie using the amplification biotin-streptavidin peroxidase system. The IGF-I was extracted from insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) using the acidified glycine buffer followed by the pH neutralization with sodium hydroxide. The microplates were coated with anti-rabbit IgG, thereafter the measurements were carried out using two approaches, one with a prior incubation of samples with the anti-h-IGF-I antibody and another without previous incubation (simultaneous addition of IGF-I and biotinylated sample). The best results were obtained using the method without the prior incubation, using the following combination of reagents: microplates were coated with 0.25µg/well of anti-rabbit IgG, the specific antibody at a dilution of 1:250,000 and 0.06ng/well of biotinylated IGF-I. The in house methodology showed sensitivity of 50ng/ml, a correlation between doses of 0.945 when compared to a commercial method. In addition, after 33 assays (quantification of 1114 samples) the proposed methodology presented a good precision, with inter-assay variation coefficients of 12.94% and 20.71% for the high and low controls, respectively. Finally, we concluded that ELISA method for the quantification of total IGF-I using the system biotin-streptavidin-peroxidase amplification in a competitive assay is established and is presented as a useful tool for studies aimed at monitoring the IGF-I concentrations.(AU)

Hematological and plasma biochemical parameters in a wild population of Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) in Sri Lanka

Background Hematological studies of any animal species comprise an important diagnostic method in veterinary medicine and an essential tool for the conservation of species. In Sri Lanka, this essential technique has been ignored in studies of many species including reptiles. The aim of the present work was to establish a reference range of hematological values and morphological characterization of wild spectacled cobras (Naja naja) in Sri Lanka in order to provide a diagnostic tool in the assessment of health condition in reptiles and to diagnose diseases in wild populations. Methods Blood samples were collected from the ventral caudal vein of 30 wild-caught Naja naja (18 males and 12 females). Hematological analyses were performed using manual standard methods. Results Several hematological parameters were examined and their mean values were: red blood cell count 0.581 ± 0.035 × 106/μL in males; 0.4950 ± 0.0408 × 106/μL in females; white blood cell count 12.45 ± 1.32 × 103/μL in males; 11.98 ± 1.62 × 103/μL in females; PCV (%) in males was 30.11 ± 1.93 and in females was 23.41 ± 1.67; hemoglobin (g/dL) was 7.6 ± 0.89 in males and 6.62 ± 1.49 in females; plasma protein (g/dL) was 5.11 ± 0.75 in males and 3.25 ± 0.74 in females; whereas cholesterol (mg/mL) was 4.09 ± 0.12 in males and 3.78 ± 0.42 in females. There were no significant differences in hematological parameters between the two genders except for erythrocyte count, thrombocyte count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, plasma protein, percentage of azurophil and heterophil. Intracellular parasites were not found in any of the studied specimens. Conclusion Hematological and plasma biochemical parameters indicated a difference between geographically isolated populations and some values were significantly different between the two genders. These hematological results provide a reference range for Sri Lankan population of adult Naja naja.(AU)

Effects of plasma on polyethylene fiber surface for prosthodontic application

ABSTRACT Plasma technology has the potential to improve the adherence of fibers to polymeric matrices, and there are prospects for its application in dentistry to reinforce the dental particulate composite. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the effect of oxygen or argon plasma treatment on polyethylene fibers. Material and Methods Connect, Construct, InFibra, and InFibra treated with oxygen or argon plasma were topographically evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and chemically by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). For bending analysis, one indirect composite (Signum) was reinforced with polyethylene fiber (Connect, Construct, or InFibra). The InFibra fiber was subjected to three different treatments: (1) single application of silane, (2) oxygen or argon plasma for 1 or 3 min, (3) oxygen or argon plasma and subsequent application of silane. The samples (25x2x2 mm), 6 unreinforced and 60 reinforced with fibers, were subjected to three-point loading tests to obtain their flexural strength and deflection. The results were statistically analyzed with ANOVA and the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparison tests. Results SEM analysis showed that oxygen and argon plasma treatments promote roughness on the polyethylene fiber surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis shows that both plasmas were effective in incorporating oxygenated functional groups. Argon or oxygen plasma treatment affected the flexural strength and deflection of a fiber reinforced composite. The application of silane does not promote an increase in the flexural strength of the reinforced composites. Conclusions Oxygen and argon plasma treatments were effective in incorporating oxygenated functional groups and surface roughness. The highest strength values were obtained in the group reinforced with polyethylene fibers treated with oxygen plasma for 3 min.

Sleep Respiratory Disorders and Clinical Profile in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction Sleep respiratory disorders (SRDs) are often found in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Objective The aim was to establish the prevalence of risk to develop an SRD using the Clinical Berlin Questionnaire (CBQ) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) in patients with T2DM and verifying the correlation of anthropometric measurements and life quality (LQ) with ESS. Methods A descriptive and analytical study of a case series evaluating 208 patients with T2DM, submitted to clinical and biochemical evaluation and implementation of CBQ, ESS, and WHOQOL-bref to evaluate LQ. Results Mean age was 60.8 8.8 years, and 65.4% were women. Most diabetics were overweight (36.1%), and 29.8% were class I obese. One-third had positive risk signals for a SRD, with 87.0 and 34.1% having high risk in CBQ and sleep disorders in ESS, respectively. There was a significant difference in the general LQ between the low- and high-risk groups in the CBQ. Conclusion In this scenario, it is noteworthy that the active search for sleep disorders must start from simple methods, such as application of protocols. .

Efeito de dietas contendo plasma sanguíneo desidratado sobre características microbiológicas, imunológicas e histológicas de leitões leves ao desmame / Effect of spray-dried plasma diets on microbiological, immunological and histological parameters of light weight weaned pigs

Foram avaliados os efeitos do plasma sanguíneo desidratado (PSD) sobre desempenho, perfil imunológico, histológico, microbiológico e peso de órgãos de leitões leves, desmamados aos 21 dias de idade. Foram utilizados 24 leitões, com idade média inicial de 21 dias, em delineamento experimental completamente ao acaso. Os tratamentos foram: T1 - animais pesados ao desmame, sem suplementação com PSD; T2 - animais leves ao desmame, suplementados com 10g/animal/dia de PSD; T3 - animais leves ao desmame, suplementados com 20g/animal/dia de PSD; T4 - animais leves ao desmame, sem suplementação com PSD. A adição de 20g de PSD na dieta melhorou o ganho diário de peso, aumentou o peso (g/kg) do baço e o título de IgA no soro entre 21 e 31 dias de idade. A inclusão de 10g de PSD aumentou o comprimento e a largura do linfonodo ileocólico. A inclusão de PSD traz benefícios aos leitões nos primeiros 10 dias pós-desmame, atuando principalmente nos órgãos linfoides e na mucosa intestinal.

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of spray-dried plasma (SDP) on the growth performance, immunological, histological and microbiological profile and weight of organs of light weight weaned pigs. The trial was done using 24 pigs with an initial mean age of 21 days in a completely randomized experimental design. The treatments were: T1 - heavy weight weaned pigs, without SDP supplementation; T2 - light weight weaned pigs, supplemented with 10g/animal/day of SDP; T3 - light weight weaned pigs, supplemented with 20g/animal/day of SDP; T4 - light weight weaned pigs, without SDP supplementation. The inclusion of 20g of SDP in the diet improved the weight gain, spleen weight (g/kg) and serum IgA title between 21 and 31 days of age. The inclusion of 10g of SDP in the diet improved the length and width of the ileocolic lymph node. In the first 10 days after weaning, SDP improved the development of lymphoid organs and the protection of the intestinal mucosa.

Abordagem farmacocinética e farmacodinâmica no monitoramento terapêutico de antimicrobianos em pacientes queimados da unidade de terapia intensiva / Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic approach for antimicrobial therapeutic monitoring in burn patients from the intensive care unit

Introdução: A sepse é a maior causa de morbidade e mortalidade em pacientes queimados, uma vez que profundas alterações ocorrem na farmacocinética de agentes antimicrobianos prescritos para o controle das infecções. Além disso, pacientes queimados podem apresentar quadro de infecção por germes da comunidade, numa fase precoce de internação na UTI, e devem receber antimicrobianos que diferem daqueles indicados na sepse. Na vigência de infecção fúngica, o quadro se torna ainda mais grave para os pacientes queimados de prolongada internação e imunocomprometidos. Objetivo: Realizar o monitoramento plasmático de oito antimicrobianos largamente prescritos na UTI, a investigação da farmacocinética e a modelagem PK-PD para o ajuste do regime de dose e controle das infecções em pacientes queimados. Casuística: Investigaram-se 32 pacientes queimados internados na UTI/Unidade de Queimados - Divisão de Cirurgia Plástica do HC FMUSP, portadores de infecção recebendo pela via sistêmica sete antimicrobianos e um antifúngico. Métodos- Etapa Clinica: Os pacientes receberam os antimicrobianos geralmente em associação para o controle das infecções seguindo as recomendações da CCIH do hospital relativas ao regime de dose empírica inicial do controle de infecção na UTI de Queimados, na fase precoce e tardia da internação. Realizou-se o monitoramento plasmático do fluconazol, para a infecção fúngica, e dos sete antimicrobianos mais prescritos na UTI para os germes da comunidade e hospitalares (cefepime, ciprofloxacino, imipenem, oxacilina, piperacilina, sulfametoxazol e vancomicina) através das coletas de amostras sanguíneas de pico (termino da infusão) e vale (imediatamente antes da dose subseqüente). Complementarmente, a critério Clínico, foram colhidas amostras seriadas de sangue (pico, 1ª, 2ª, 4ª, 6ª e vale), totalizando seis coletas, para investigação da farmacocinética do agente que requereu ajuste de dose e individualização de terapia no paciente queimado...

Introduction: Sepsis is a main cause of morbidity and mortality in burn patients, once pharmacokinetics of antimicrobials prescribed for the control of infections are significantly altered in those patients. In addition, burn patients in the ICU, initially can present infections by community microbial and must receive different antimicrobials than those prescribed for sepsis. On the other hand, burn immunocompromized patients with prolonged staying in the ICU, re-incidence of sepsis and fungal infection requires an effective antifungal agent that must be associated to the antimicrobials prescription. Objective: Therapeutic plasma monitoring of eight antimicrobials largely prescribed to burn patients from the ICU, Pharmacokinetic and PK-PD modeling for dose adjustment and for the control of infections. Study design: Thirty two burn inpatients with infections from the ICU Burns- Division of Plastic Surgery of Clinics Hospital Medical School University of Sao Paulo received systemically antimicrobials/ antifungal agents. Methods - Clinical Procedures: In general burn patients received several antimicrobial agents as recommended by the Control of Hospital Infection Committee as empirical dose at the beginning of therapy and also afterwards in the ICU. The control of infections by community microbials or yet by hospital microbials, and also for fungal infection, was performed by drug plasma monitoring of cefepime, ciprofloxacin, imipenem, oxacillin, piperacillin, sulphamethoxazole, vancomycin and fluconazole after blood sample collection at the peak and at the trough. Complementary, usually by clinical criteria, six blood sample collections were performed at time dose interval (end of drug infusion, 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th and at the trough) for pharmacokinetic purposes, dose adjustment and individualization of drug therapy for burn patients. Blood sample collection was done by the physician from the ICU by venous catheter (2mL/each into blood collection tubes sodium...

Selenio en suero y plasma: epidemiología y valores de referencia / Selenium in serum and plasma: epidemiology and reference values

OBJETIVO. Revisar y analizar literatura sobre valores de selenio (Se) en suero y plasma humanos; describir algunas variaciones; obtener "valores de referencia" para los países de Europa y América Latina, y proporcionar un marco informativo para estudios futuros sobre el tema. MÉTODOS. Se buscó información sobre niveles séricos o plasmáticos de Se en personas declaradas "sanas" en la literatura científica. Se revisaron las bases LILACS, SciELO, PubMed, Medline. Se buscó información de cualquier fecha (hasta enero de 2010) e idioma disponibles. Se calcularon promedio aritmético y desviación estándar ponderados. RESULTADOS: En la búsqueda para Europa se hallaron 161 informes publicados entre 1972 y 2009, con participación de 49 869 adultos sanos, 28 países y 8 regiones. El Se sérico/ plasmático varió entre 48,2 y 124,00 µg/L. Los valores ponderados continentales fueron 85,19 ± 14,58 (intervalo de confianza [IC] de 95 por ciento para promedio: 85,124-85,256). Los promedios por país, región y técnica de medición fueron estadísticamente diferentes, con diferencias significativas entre sexos y edades. Veintitrés de los estudios fueron en menores de 19 años de 10 países europeos. Los valores ponderados fueron 74,21 ± 9,50 µg/L (IC95 por ciento 73,95-74,46). Sobre América Latina hubo solo 11 datos. El Se sérico/plasmático fue 91,51 ± 18,78 µg/L en adultos; 93,25 ± 39,20 en menores de 15 años, y 130 ± 30 en recién nacidos menores de 25 horas. CONCLUSIONES: Los valores de Se sérico/plasmático mostraron diferencia estadísticamente significativa por sexo y edad en Europa, fueron más altos en adultos y niños latinoamericanos que en europeos, pero los datos latinoamericanos se basan en pocas personas. La influencia de la técnica de medición de Se en suero/plasma se considera crítica. En América Latina se requieren estudios poblacionales adecuadamente planificados y diseñados para generar valores de referencia autóctonos sobre Se en suero/plasma.

OBJECTIVE: To review and analyze the literature on selenium (Se) levels in human serum and plasma; to describe some variations; to obtain reference values for the countries of Europe and Latin America, and to provide an information framework for future studies on the subject. METHODS: Scientific literature was reviewed to gather information on selenium serum or plasma levels in people identified as "healthy." The LILACS, SciELO, and PubMed Medline databases were consulted. The search for information could be from any date (up to January 2010) and in any language. Weighted arithmetic means and standard deviations were calculated. RESULTS: For Europe, 161 reports published between 1972 and 2009 were found, covering 49 869 healthy adults, 28 countries, and 8 regions. Serum/plasma Se levels ranged from 48.2 to 124.00 µg/L. Weighted values for Europe were 85.19 ± 14.58 (CI 95 percent for the weighted average, 85.124-85.256). The averages by country, region, and measurement technique were statistically different, with significant differences associated with sex and age. Twenty-three of the studies involved individuals under 19 years of age in 10 European countries. The weighted values for this population were 74.21 ± 9.50 µg/L (CI 95 percent, 73.95-74.46). Only 11 studies from Latin America were available. Serum/plasma Se was 91.51 ± 18.78 Ìg/L in adults; 93.25 ± 39.20 in children under 15; and 130 ± 30 in newborns less than 25 hours old. CONCLUSIONS: Se serum/plasma levels in Europe showed statistically significant differences by sex and age. Se levels were higher in Latin American adults and children than in Europeans, but the Latin American data are based on few people. The technique for measuring Se in serum/plasma appears to have a significant influence. Properly planned and designed population studies should be conducted in Latin America in order to establish regional reference values for Se in serum and plasma.

Diagnóstico genético prenatal no invasivo de factor Rh y sexo fetal a través del análisis de ADN fetal libre en plasma materno / Non invasive prenatal genetic diagnosis of fetal RhD and sex through the analysis of free fetal DNA in maternal plasma

Introducción. El análisis de ADN fetal libre en plasma materno permite estudiar material genético del feto sin realizar procedimientos invasivos sobre el embarazo. Objetivo. Evaluar la factibilidad y desempeño diagnóstico de la determinación del genotipo RhD y del sexo fetal a través del análisis molecularde ADN fetal libre en plasma de embarazadas mediante reactivos de uso general en biología molecular. Material y métodos. Se extrajeron 109 muestras de sangre de embarazadas. Se amplificó por PCR en tiempo real una porción del gen RhD para el diagnóstico de Rh fetal en mujeres Rh-negativas y una región del cromosoma Y para la determinación del sexo fetal. Ambos datos se compararon con los resultados neonatales. Resultados. Respecto de las 109 muestras, 26 embarazos están en curso, 4 tuvieron abortos espontáneos y en 3 se perdió el seguimiento. De las 76 restantes con resultado neonatal, en 65 mujeres Rh-negativas se efectuó el análisis del gen RhD para la determinación del Rh fetal y en 66 muestras se realizó la determinación del sexo fetal. Quince muestras fueron no concluyentes y se excluyeron del análisis. El valor predictivo para RhD-positivo y RhD-negativo fue 85 por ciento y 90%, respectivamente, mientras que la predicción de sexo masculino fue 94,3 por ciento y la del femenino 95 por ciento. Conclusiones. La determinación no invasiva del RhD y sexo fetal en plasma materno mediante reactivos de uso general en biología molecular fue factible en la mayoría de los casos, con un desempeño diagnóstico similar al descripto en la bibliografía.

Introduction. The analysis of free fetal DNA in maternal plasma allows the assessment of fetal genetic material avoiding the necessity of invasive procedures during pregnancy. Objective. To evaluate the feasibility and the diagnostic performance of fetal sex and fetal RhD detection through the analysis of free fetal DNA in maternal plasma using standard reagents in molecular biology. Material and methods. A hundred and nine blood samples of pregnant women were obtained obtained. Amplification by real time PCR a sequence from the RhD gene in Rh negative patients and a Y-chromosome sequence, for the diagnosis of fetal Rh and sex respectively, were performed. Results were compared with neonatal outcomes. Results. From the 109 samples, 26 are still ongoing, 4 ended in spontaneous abortions and in 3 were lost to follow up. From the remaining 76 samples with neonatal result, the determination of fetal Rh from the RhD gene was performed in 65 Rh negative women, whereas in 66 samples the fetal sex analysis was evaluated. Overall, 15 samples had not conclusive results and were excluded from the study. The predictive values for RhD positive and negative were 85 percent and 90 percent, respectively, while the prediction for male sex was 94.3 percent and for female sex 95 percent. Conclusion. The non invasive determination of fetal RhD and sex in maternal plasma using standard reagents in molecular biology was feasible in the majority of the samples, with a diagnostic performance similar to the reported in the literature.

Perfil bioquímico de algumas enzimas no plasma sangüíneo de potras da raça Brasileiro de Hipismo (BH) criadas em Colina, Estado de São Paulo / Biochemical profile of some plasmatic enzymes in BH (Brasileiro de Hipismo) filies bred Colina in São Paulo State

Com o propósito de avaliar o perfil bioquímico de algumas enzimas,em potras sadias da raça BH (Brasileiro de Hipismo), utilizaram-se380 amostras de plasma sangüíneo colhidas de 19 animais desde o nascimento até 24 meses de vida. Na análise dos resultados evidenciou-se que os valores médios das enzimas FA (fosfatase alcalina) e CK( creatina quinase) foram máximos entre o nascimento e 24 horas devida (FA-1995.50 UI/ ; CK-189.13UI/L), enquanto que para a LD(lactato desidrogenase) e GGT (gama glutamiltransferase) as maiores magnitudes ocorreram, respectivamente, entre 3 e 4 dias (LD-479.11UI/L) e aos 10 dias de idade (GGT-18.70UI/L). As FA, CK,LD e GGT, mostraram diminuições dos valores médios,respectivamente, até 6 meses (FA-323.50UI/L), 20 dias (CK-51UI/L), 19 meses (LD-214.00UI/L) e 4 meses (GGT-11.40UI/L)estabilizando-se a seguir, com pequenas variações. A atividade da AST (aspartato aminotransferase) que foi mínima logo após o nascimento (AST- 43.38UI/L), aumentou até os sete dias de vida(AST-110.89UI/L), e a seguir diminuiu progressivamente, com pequenas oscilações, até o final do estudo. Todas as enzimas avaliadas sofreram variações influenciadas pelo fator etário, particularmente no período inicial de vida dos animais estudados.

380 plasma samples were used with the purpose of evaluate the biochemical profile of some enzymes in healthy BH (Brasileiro deHipismo) fillies. These samples were collected from 19 animals since birth until 24 months of age. The results showed that the mean values of ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and CK (creatine kinase) were higher between birth and 24 hours of life (FA-1995.50 UI/; CK-189.13UI/L), where as for LD (lactate dehidrogenase) and GGT (gama glutamiltransferase) the highest values were, respectively, between 3 and 4 days (LD-479.11UI/L) and with 10 days of life (GGT-18.70UI/L). AP, CK, LD and GGT showed a reduction of the mean values,respectively, until 6 months (FA-323.50UI/L), 20 days (CK-51UI/L), 19 months (LD-214.00 UI/L) and 4 months (GGT-11.40UI/L)stabilizing with some oscillations. The activity of AST (aspartate aminotransferase) was minimal after birth (AST- 43.38UI/L) increased until the seventh day of life (AST-110.89UI/L) and next it diminished progressively with little oscillations until the end of the study. Allenzymes evaluated were influenced by age, particularly in the initial period of life of the animals studied.

A new method for analysis of plasma carotenoids in poultry / Novo método para dosagem de carotenóides plasmáticos em aves domésticas

A study was carried out to evaluate a new quantitative analytical technique for determination of plasma carotenoids in poultry. Plasma carotenoides were extracted and measured from 30 blood samples of male Cobb broilers. The new technique was efficient in detecting plasma carotenoids of chickens and also showed advantages upon those techniques currently in use such as the form of presentation of results, use of a compatible solvent, and the scanning method for reading. The new technique did not increase the cost of the analysis.

Avaliou-se uma nova técnica analítica quantitativa para mensuração do teor de carotenóides plasmáticos em aves domésticas. Para extração e dosagem dos carotenóides plasmático, foram utilizadas 30 amostras de sangue de frangos de corte Cobb. A técnica testada foi capaz de detectar carotenóides no plasma das aves de forma eficiente tendo ainda vantagens sobre as técnicas correntes tais como a forma de apresentação dos resultados, uso de solvente compatível e método de leitura por varredura. A nova técnica não aumentou o custo da análise.

Acidos grasos de fosfolipidos en plasma y eritrocitos de lactantes desnutridos alimentados con leche materna o fórmulas / Fatty acids of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids in malnourished infants well-fed by breast feeding or formula

Los ácidos grasos polinsaturados (AGP) derivados de los ácidos grasos esenciales (AGE) tienen importantes roles en la formación y mantenimiento de estructuras de membrana, jugando un papel trascendente en la síntesis de lípidos estructurales y en el desarrollo neural. Se han señalado anormalidades en las funciones neurológicas de lactantes alimentados con fórmulas con respecto a lactantes alimentados con leche materna y se conoce el efecto de la desnutrición calórico-proteica sobre la composición en AGP de algunos tejidos. En este trabajo se estudió el efecto de diferentes fórmulas comerciales sobre la composición en ácidos grasos de los fosfolípidos de plasma y eritrocitos. Se seleccionaron tres grupos de lactantes desnutridos por causa socioeconómicoculturales nacidos a término: dos recibieron fórmulas (una de ellas sólo aportó ácidos linoleicos y alfa- linolénicos y la otra contenía además agragados ácidos grasos polinsaturados de mayor longitud de cadenas derivados de ambas series: n-3 y n-6 y el tercer grupo, alimentado con leche materna, se consideró como control. Se determinó la composición de ácidos grasos de los fosfolipídos de plasma y eritrocitos por cromatografía gas-líquido. Los resultados mostraron, en lactantes alimentados con fórmulas, mayor proporción de ácidos saturados y monoetilénicos, y menor porcentaje en el total de ácidos polinsaturados con respecto a los alimentados con leche materna. Estas diferecias son más marcadas en los que recibieron fórmulas sin suplemento AGP. Seconcluye que en lactante desnutridos el uso de fórmulas enriquecidasen ácidos grasos polinsaturados logra restaurar en parte, el perfil de ácidos grasos en fosfolipídos de plasma y eritrocitos, que se asemeja al de los que reciben leche materna, y es diferente a los alimentados con fórmulas comunes.

Modificadores biológicos: técnica de obtención y manejo clínico del plasma rico en plaquetas / Biologic modifiers: technique of obtention and clinical manipulation of plasma-enriched platelets

Los modificadores biológicos, son sustancias de estructura proteica que participan en los procesos de diferenciación y proliferación celular. Las plaquetas contienen por lo menos dos de estas sustancias, el factor de crecimiento derivado de las plaquetas (PDGF-platelet derived growth factor) y el factor de crecimiento transformador beta (TGF b-transforming growth factor beta). El plasma rico en plaquetas es un preparado autólogo que se utiliza en técnicas de regeneración e injertos óseos. Una vez que las plaquetas liberan su contenido en la zona quirúrgica, los factores de crecimiento contenidos en ellas estimulan el proceso de cicatrización normal, logrando un hueso de mayor calidad en períodos más cortos. En este trabajo se hace una síntesis de los procesos de proliferación y diferenciación celular y de la influencia que en dichos procesos tienen los factores de crecimiento. Se describe una técnica simplificada para la obtención de un plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) cuya activación promueve la liberación de los factores de crecimiento plaquetarios en el lecho quirúrgico. La textura y adherencia de este preparado facilitan la manipulación y esculpido del material a injertar