Phylogeny and taxonomy of Circinotrichum, Gyrothrix, Vermiculariopsiella and other setose hyphomycetes.

Circinotrichum, Gyrothrix and Vermiculariopsiella represent a complex of dematiaceous, setose, saprobic hyphomycetes that are commonly collected on plant litters in tropical, subtropical to temperate climates. Multi-locus analysis (ITS, LSU, rpb2) and morphological studies revealed that Gyrothrix and Circinotrichum are polyphyletic and species belong to 10 genera grouping in three different clades within Xylariales, named Coniocessiaceae (Circinotrichum and Pirozynskiomyces gen. nov.), Microdochiaceae (Selenodriella and the resurrected genus Peglionia) and the new family Gyrothricaceae (Gyrothrix, Xenoanthostomella, Neogyrothrix gen. nov., Pseudocircinotrichum gen. nov., and Pseudoceratocladium gen. nov.). Vermiculariopsiella (Vermiculariopsiellales, Vermiculariopsiellaceae) is emended for species with setose sporodochia with simple setae (V. dichapetali, V. eucalypticola, V. immersa, V. pini, V. spiralis, V. australiensis sp. nov.) while Vermiculariopsis is resurrected and includes setose fungi with branched setae (Vs. dunni, Vs. eucalypti, Vs. eucalyptigena, Vs. lauracearum, Vs. microsperma, Vs. pediculata and Vs. castanedae sp. nov.). Citation: Hernández-Restrepo M, Decock CA, Costa MM, et al. 2022. Phylogeny and taxonomy of Circinotrichum, Gyrothrix, Vermiculariopsiella and other setose hyphomycetes. Persoonia 49: 99-135. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2022.49.03.

Leukogram and cortisol parameters in Swiss mice experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus costaricensis.

This study describes changes in haematological parameters, cytokine profile, histopathology and cortisol levels in Swiss mice experimentally infected with Angiostrongylus costaricensis. Twenty-eight Swiss mice were divided into two groups (G1 and G2) of 14 animals each. In each group, eight animals were infected orally with ten third-stage larvae of A. costaricensis and six were used as a control group. The mice of groups G1 and G2 were sacrificed 14 and 24 days after infection, respectively. Samples were collected for histopathological and haematological analyses and determination of the cytokine profile and cortisol levels. Granulomatous reaction, eosinophilic infiltrate and vasculitis in the intestinal tract, pancreas, liver and spleen were observed with varying intensity in infected animals. Our results showed that the mice developed normocytic and hypochromic anaemia, and that the histopathological lesions caused by the experimental infection influenced increases in cortisol, neutrophil and monocyte levels. In addition to this, we detected increased interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor alpha levels in the infected animals.

ARMC5 Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia Associated with a Meningioma: A Family Report.

Primary bilateral adrenal macronodular hyperplasia is characterized by functioning adrenal macronodules and variable cortisol secretion. Familial clustering suggests a genetic cause that has been confirmed with the identification of some genetic mutations, including inactivating germline mutations, in armadillo repeat containing 5 (ARMC5) gene. The identification of the pathogenic variant enables the physician to identify and treat these patients earlier and more effectively. It has also been noticed that patients with germline causative variants show a different clinical spectrum, presenting specific clinical characteristics, as the association with the presence of meningiomas.

Atividade antibacteriana de nanopartículas de polipirrol diante de Staphylococcus aureus isolados de amostras de leite de vacas e cabras com mastite / Antibacterial behavior of polypyrrole nanoparticles against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from cows and goats with mastitis

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial behavior of polypyrrole nanoparticles (PPy-NPs) in water against biofilm producer or not S. aureus isolated from cows and goats with mastitis. One hundred and thirty-eight isolates of S. aureus were initially evaluated for biofilm formation by spectrophotometry in microplates. In addition, the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of PPy-NPs in water for planktonic S. aureus were determined. From the bovine samples analyzed, 5 (4.46%) S. aureus isolates showed a strong biofilm production, 17 (15.18%) moderate production, 36 (32.14%) with weak production and 54 (48.21%) did not produce biofilms. Strains from goats (26) showed no biofilm production in 18 (69.23%) strains and weak biofilm production in 8 (30.76%) strains. The MIC and MBC of S. aureus to PPy-NPs were found in the same concentration (125搭/mL) in all strains tested, regardless of biofilm production or not. This finding provides a new insight into the interaction between PPy-NPs and S. aureus, and will offer potential benefits for the control of mastitis.(AU)

Results of a national system-wide quality improvement initiative for the implementation of evidence-based infection prevention practices in Brazilian hospitals.

BACKGROUND: Quality improvement (QI) methods are recommended to address healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) in hospitals, but whereas internal initiatives have been widely studied, there is little evidence on the application and effect of a QI approach from an external system-wide perspective. AIM: To analyse the effect of a national system-wide QI initiative aimed at promoting HCAI prevention via regulatory interventions in Brazil. METHODS: A QI cycle approach designed and assessed with a before-and-after quasi-experimental design was implemented by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), targeting 1869 hospitals. Eleven evidence-based quality indicators related to HCAI prevention and a composite measure were assembled, shared, and assessed; the intervention to improve was then based on participatory multifaceted regulatory actions. Absolute and relative improvements were estimated after the intervention. FINDINGS: In all, 563 hospitals (30.1% response) totalling 86,837 beds participated in the baseline assessment, and 681 hospitals (36.4% response) totalling 101,231 beds in the second. Ten of the 11 criteria improved (P < 0.05), as well as the composite indicator (P = 0.001) in all the regions of the country, particularly in the group of hospitals participating at baseline. 'Hand hygiene (HH) infrastructure' reached 100% (baseline: 97.9; P = 0.001), 'HH protocol' 96.9% (baseline: 92.9; P = 0.001), 'HH monitoring' 70% (baseline: 60.7; P < 0.001) and 'existence of antimicrobial prescription protocol' 80.7% (baseline: 73.2; P < 0.001), among others. The HCAI rates of the participating hospitals decreased after the intervention (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The QI cycle approach was useful in guiding system-wide interventions for patient safety. External regulation was feasible and effective in promoting internal HCAI prevention nationwide.

Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Long-term Cardiovascular Risk: Comparative Effectiveness of Different Surgical Procedures.

INTRODUCTION: Several reports highlight bariatric surgery as an efficient and long-lasting strategy for weight loss. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the impact of bariatric surgery on 10-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and to compare the effectiveness of different surgical procedures, employing the Framingham Risk Score (FRS). METHODS: Retrospective longitudinal observational study of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Data was assessed preoperatively and during a 4-year follow-up period. RESULTS: We evaluated 1449 individuals, 85.2% female, age of 42.4 ± 10.6 years, and preoperative BMI of 44.3 ± 5.8 kg/m2; 58.0% underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), 23.4% sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and 18.6% adjustable gastric band (AGB). The 10-year CVD risk decreased 43.6% in the first postoperative year. The decrease in FRS was more pronounced in the RYGB group (50.5% in the first postoperative year) (p < 0.001). Although there was a subsequent slight increase in FRS during the follow-up period, the cardiovascular benefits were maintained when compared with baseline. For all surgical procedures, CVD risk showed a quadratic trend with a J-shaped curve. A negative interaction between the RYGB group CVD risk and time was observed (ß = - 0.072 (95% CI, - 0.109; - 0.035)). In the RYGB group, FRS decreased more when compared with the SG and AGB groups and, from the second postoperative year onwards, increased more slowly, regardless of gender. The SG group showed similar trend as that of the AGB (ß = - 0.002 (95% CI, - 0.049; 0.053)). CONCLUSION: Our study showed a significant reduction of 10-year CVD risk after bariatric surgery. This decrease was more pronounced in the first postoperative year, and RYGB was the procedure with the greatest decrease of the 10-year CVD risk.

Tribological behavior of bioactive multi-material structures targeting orthopedic applications.

The following study proposes a multi-material solution in which Ti6Al4V cellular structures produced by Selective Laser Melting are impregnated with bioactive materials (hydroxyapatite or ß-tricalcium phosphate) using press and sintering technique. To assess the tribological response of these structures, an alumina plate was used as a counterpart in a flat-on-flat reciprocating sliding test. Ti6Al4V cellular structures impregnated with bioactive materials displayed the highest wear resistance when compared with the unreinforced structures. Among the bioactive structures, Ti6Al4V cellular structures impregnated with ßTCP were the ones with higher wear resistance, having the lowest weight loss. Hence, these structures are promising multifunctional solutions for load-bearing applications by gathering suitable mechanical properties (strength and stiffness); bioactive properties and in addition an improved wear performance.

Multi-material Ti6Al4V & PEEK cellular structures produced by Selective Laser Melting and Hot Pressing: A tribocorrosion study targeting orthopedic applications.

Ti6Al4V-alloy is commonly used in dental and orthopedic applications where tribochemical reactions occur at material/bone interface. These reactions are one of the main concerns regarding Ti6Al4V implants due to the generation of wear particles, linked to the release of metallic ions in toxic concentration which occurs when TiO2 passive film is destroyed by means of wear and corrosion simultaneously. In the present study, a multi-material Ti6Al4V-PEEK cellular structure is proposed. Selective Laser Melting technique was used to produce Ti6Al4V dense and cellular structured specimens, whilst Hot-Pressing technique was employed to obtain multi-material Ti6Al4V-PEEK structures. This study investigates the tribocorrosion behavior of these materials under reciprocating sliding, comparing them with commercial forged Ti6Al4V. Open-circuit-potential was measured before, during and after sliding while dynamic coefficient of friction was assessed during sliding. The results showed an improved wear resistance and a lower tendency to corrosion for the multi-material Ti6Al4V-PEEK specimens when compared to dense and cellular structures mono-material specimens. This multi-material solution gathering Ti6Al4V and PEEK, besides being able to withstand the loads occurring after implantation on dental and orthopedic applications, is a promising alternative to fully dense metals once it enhances the tribocorrosion performance.

Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) Nk-lysin induces protection against the pathogenic parasite Philasterides dicentrarchi via membrane disruption.

P. dicentrarchi is one of the most threatening pathogens for turbot aquaculture. This protozoan ciliate is a causative agent of scuticociliatosis, which is a disease with important economic consequences for the sector. Neither vaccines nor therapeutic treatments are commercially available to combat this infection. Numerous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and even tumor cells; an example is Nk-lysin (Nkl), which is an AMP belonging to the saposin-like protein (SAPLIP) family with an ability to interact with biological membranes. Following the recent characterization of turbot Nkl, an expression plasmid encoding Nkl was constructed and an anti-Nkl polyclonal antibody was successfully tested. Using these tools, we demonstrated that although infection did not clearly affect nkl mRNA expression, it induced changes at the protein level. Turbot Nkl had the ability to inhibit proliferation of the P. dicentrarchi parasite both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, a shortened peptide containing the active core of turbot Nkl (Nkl71-100) was synthesized and showed high antiparasitic activity with a direct effect on parasite viability that probably occurred via membrane disruption. Therefore, the nkl gene may be a good candidate for genetic breeding selection of fish, and either the encoded peptide or its shortened analog is a promising antiparasitic treatment in aquaculture.

Phylogenetic analysis, biofilm production, and antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli isolated from slaughtered pigs / Análise filogenética, produção de biofilme e perfil de resistência antimicrobiana de Escherichia coli isoladas de suínos abatidos

Enteric diseases of bacterial origin are frequent in the pig industry, of particular notoriety are the colibacillosis that mainly affect piglets and cause great damage to the swine industry worldwide. The aim of the study was to analyze phylogenetics, to detect biofilm production, and to determine antimicrobial resistance profile in 126 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from swabs obtained from fragments of the small intestines of 235 healthy pigs killed in slaughterhouses in Pernambuco (Brazil) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), adherence to microplates test and disc diffusion technique. Of the analyzed samples, 88.10% (111/126) were classified in phylogenetic group B1; 4.76% (6/126) in group D; 3.97% (5/126) in group B2 and, 3.17% (4/126) in group A. Antimicrobial resistance rates observed were: lincomycin 100% (126/126), erythromycin 100% (126/126), chlortetracycline 94.44% (119/126), cephalothin 51.59% (65/126), ampicillin 38.89% (49/126), sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim 37.3% (47/126), ciprofloxacin 19.84% (25/126), norfloxacin 14.29% (18/126), gentamicin 8.73% (11/126) and, chloramphenicol 5.55% (7/126). Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) ranged from 0.2 to 0.9. Of the strains tested 46.03% (58/126) produced biofilm, and 99.21% (125/126) of the strains exhibited multi-resistance. Further studies are required to elucidate the importance of each phylogenetic group in pigs and to prevent the propagation of multi-resistant E. coli strains.(AU)

Doenças entéricas de origem bacteriana são frequentes na indústria de suínos, destacando-se a colibacilose, que afeta principalmente leitões e causa grandes danos à indústria suína em todo o mundo. Cento e vinte e seis cepas de Escherichia coli foram isoladas de swabs obtidos de fragmentos de intestino delgado de 235 suínos saudáveis abatidos em matadouros de Pernambuco (Brasil). O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar filogeneticamente essas cepas, bem como detectar a produção de biofilme e determinar o perfil de resistência antimicrobiana delas, utilizando-se a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), o teste de adesão em microplacas e a técnica de disco-difusão. 88,10% (111/126) das amostras foram classificadas no grupo filogenético B1; 4,76% (6/126) no grupo D; 3,97% (5/126) no grupo B2; e 3,17% (4/126) no grupo A. As taxas de resistência antimicrobiana observadas foram: lincomicina 100% (126/126), eritromicina 100% (126/126), clortetraciclina 94,44% (119/126), cefalotina 51,59% (65/126), ampicilina 38,89% (49/126), sulfametoxazol + trimetoprima 37,3% (47/126), ciprofloxacina 19,84% (25/126), norfloxacina 14,29% (18/126), gentamicina 8,73% (11/126) e cloranfenicol 5,55% (7/126). O índice de resistência múltipla (IRMA) variou de 0,2 a 0,9. Entre as amostras, 46,03% (58/126) produziram biofilme e 99,21% (125/126) foram multirresistentes. São necessários mais estudos para elucidar a importância de cada grupo filogenético em suínos e evitar a propagação de estirpes de E. coli multirresistentes.(AU)

Atividade antimicrobiana in vitro de extratos de plantas do bioma caatinga em isolados de Escherichia coli de suínos / Antimicrobial activity in vitro extracts from caatinga plants in isolated Escherichia coli from pigs

RESUMO A suinocultura é uma atividade pecuária bem consolidada no Brasil. Por outro lado a colibacilose neonatal, cujo patógeno é Escherichia coli, pode diminuir a produtividade nas granjas e causar prejuízos aos produtores. O tratamento baseia-se na utilização de drogas antimicrobianas. Todavia, o uso indiscriminado dessas substâncias tem levado a seleção de cepas resistentes. Diante disso, a busca por alternativas terapêuticas, como as plantas medicinais, tem se tornado cada vez mais comum. Dessa maneira, objetivou-se determinar a atividade antimicrobiana de cinco extratos etanólicos de plantas do bioma caatinga: Amburana cearensis (Fr. Allem) A.C. Smith, Encholirium spectabile Mart., Hymenaea courbaril L, Neoglaziovia variegata Mez e Selaginella convoluta Spring frente a 43 isolados de Eschericha coli coletados de suínos. Para o teste de sensibilidade in vitro foi realizada a técnica da Concentração Bactericida Mínima (CBM) pelo método da microdiluição em microplaca. Os extratos apresentaram atividade antimicrobiana nas seguintes médias 138,75 175,28, 128,36, 127,71 e 129,33 μg/mL, respectivamente. Essa atividade antibacteriana pode estar relacionada a ação de metabólitos secundários presentes nos extratos dessas plantas. Dessa forma, nosso estudo pode contribuir para o desenvolvimento de alternativas terapêuticas no tratamento de infecções, como a colibacilose neonatal em suíno, bem como para o conhecimento acerca das plantas medicinais da Caatinga.

ABSTRACT Swine production is a well-established livestock activity in Brazil. On the other hand, the Neonatal Colibacillosis, whose pathogen is Escherichiacoli, can decrease the productivity on farms and cause losses to producers. The treatment of the disease is based on the use of antimicrobial drugs. However, the free use of these substances has led to the selection of resistant strains. Thus, the search for alternative therapies such as medicinal plants has become becoming increasingly common. In this context, we aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of ethanol extracts of five plants from the caatinga biome: A. cearensis (Fr. Allem) AC Smith, Encholirium spectabile Mart, Hymenaea courbaril L, Neoglaziovia variegata Mez and Selaginella convoluta Spring in face of isolates of Eschericha coli collected from pigs. For the in vitro susceptibility testing, the method of Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) was chosen The extracts showed antimicrobial activity in the following averages 138.75 175.28, 128.36, 127.71 and 129.33 mg / mL, respectively. This antibacterial activity could be related to the action of secondary metabolites in the extracts of these plants. Thus, the current study can contribute to the development of alternative therapies for the treatment of infections such as swine Colibacillosis Neonatal, as well as to the knowledge of Caatinga medicinal plants.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound in Paediatric Rheumatology: a retrospective analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSK-US) has become increasingly important in the diagnosis and follow-up of children with rheumatic diseases. We describe the experience of a large Portuguese centre and study the added value of MSK-US in the clinical assessment of paediatric rheumatic diseases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients were observed by assistant Rheumatologists, a clinical diagnosis was assigned and MSK-US requested. 330 MSK-US exams were performed to 222 children with rheumatic inflammatory diseases. The children's ages were between 1 and 18 years (mean=11.7±4.7 years) and 67.6% were female. Synovial membrane proliferation, intra-articular effusion, cartilage abnormalities, erosions and periarticular affections were searched in each joint. Clinical and ultrasonography data were compared. RESULTS: MSK-US detected synovitis in 100 of 194 exams (51.5%) of patients with that clinical information and in 36 of 136 exams (26.5%) of patients who presented other clinical findings. In those in which MSK-US did not confirm the clinical information of synovitis (94; 48.5%), we detected tenosynovitis/tendinopathy in 13 cases (13.8%) and synovial cyst in four (4.3%). The remaining patients had no ultrasonography changes and MSK-US helped to exclude synovitis. The sensitivity for arthritis clinical assessment was good (73.5%), with modest specificity (51.5%), an accuracy of 60.6% and precision of 51.5%. Ultrasonography synovitis was mostly found in the knee (37.5%), followed by the ankle (22.8%) and hip (10.3%). Overall, 39 exams showed ultrasonographic tenosynovitis/tendinopathy, 15 of which had the same clinical diagnosis. Tenosynovitis/tendinopathy was mostly found in the ankle (59.0%) and knee (23.1%) areas. CONCLUSIONS: MSK-US is an important aid to clinical evaluation, allowing both the detection and exclusion of joint pathology in children, contributing to a better assessment.

Estudo da ação antimicrobiana conjunta de extratos aquosos de Tansagem (Plantago major l, Plantaginaceae) e Romã (Punica granatum l, Punicaceae) e interferência dos mesmos na ação da amoxicilina in vitr / Study of the joint antimicrobial action of aqueous extracts of broadleaf plantain (Plantago major l, Plantaginaceae) and Pomegranate (Punica granatum l, Punicaceae) and their interference in the in vitro activity of amoxicillin

O uso de plantas medicinais no tratamento de doenças (fitoterapia) é uma prática de diversos povos, sendo realizada desde a Antiguidade. Diversos estudos são realizados para determinar a eficácia dessas plantas, sendo desconhecida a existência de interações e interferências na combinação das mesmas, quer seja benéfica, quer cause algum dano para o organismo. A fim de descobrir a existência dessas interações ou a interferência na ação do antibiótico amoxicilina testou-se Punica granatum e Plantago major contra as bactérias Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli. A matéria prima foi obtida nas regiões de Montes Claros e Curvelo e seus extratos aquosos foi obtido através da decocção. A Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) dos extratos foi determinada pela técnica de microdiluição em caldo. Para o teste de interferência realizou-se o teste de disco-difusão. No teste de microdiluição em caldo, Punica granatum apresentou CIM de 6,25% contra o S. aureus e de 25% contra E. coli. O extrato de Plantago major não apresentou atividade contra as bactérias. O teste de disco-difusão confirmou a existência de interações, sendo apenas quatro resultados significativos (Amoxicilina + Plantago major Pura (PgP), Amoxicilina + Plantago major Diluição 1 (PgD1) e Amoxicilia + Plantago major Diluição 2 (PgD2) contra E. coli e Amoxicilina + PgP contra S. aureus). Conclui-se que existe interação dos extratos entre si e dos extratos com a amoxicilina, o que também pode acontecer com outros antibióticos e gerar riscos para a população. Portanto é indispensável à realização de testes que complementem essa pesquisa oferecendo mais informação à população para segurança na utilização de plantas medicinais. informações à população assegurando sua segurança na utilização de plantas medicinais.

The use of medicinal plants in treating diseases (herbal medicine) is a practice of many peoples, being done since ancient times. Several studies are conducted to determine the effectiveness of these plants, but the existence of interactions and interference with their combined use, whether beneficial or detrimental to the body, are unknown. In order to discover the existence of these interactions or interferences in the activity of the antibiotic amoxicillin, we tested in this research Punica granatum and Plantago major against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The raw material was obtained in the regions of Montes Claros and Curvelo, and their aqueous extracts were obtained from decoction. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extracts was determined by the broth microdilution technique. For interference, we performed the disk diffusion test. In the broth microdilution test, Punica granatum had MICs of 6.25% against S.aureus and 25% against E. coli. The Plantago major extract showed no activity against the bacteria. The disk diffusion test confirmed the existence of interactions and only four significant results (amoxicillin + pure Punica granatum (PgP), amoxicillin + Punica granatum dilution 1 (PgD1) and amoxicillin + Punica granatum dilution 2 (PgD2) against E. coli and amoxicillin + PgP against S. aureus). We conclude, as a result, that there really is interaction between the extracts themselves and between the extracts and amoxicillin, which can also occur with other antibiotics and cause some risk to the population. Therefore, it is essential to carry out tests to complement this research, providing more information to the public and ensuring the safety in the use of medicinal plants.

Bubaline mastitis etiology in Northeast of Brazil / Etiologia da mastite bubalina no Nordeste do Brasil

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a frequência de mastite clínica e subclínica e descrever os micro-organismos envolvidos no processo inflamatório da glândula mamária nos rebanhos de búfalos leiteiros no Nordeste do Brasil. Foram analisadas 1.896 amostras de leite provenientes de 474 búfalos em quatro propriedades localizadas nos Estados de Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará e Pernambuco. Após o exame físico da glândula mamária, as amostras de leite de cada teto foram submetidas aos testes da caneca do fundo preto e CMT (California Mastitis Test). As amostras que apresentaram scores ++ e +++ no CMT e as positivas para a caneca do fundo preto foram submetidas ao exame microbiológico. Do total de amostras estudadas, 90/1.896 (4,74%) apresentaram mastite clínica. Com relação ao CMT, observou-se que 802/1.896 (42,2%) das amostras demonstraram mastite subclínica. Staphylococcus spp. foram os micro-organismos mais frequentes, seguidos de Corynebacterium spp. e bactérias gram-negativas. Os resultados obtidos neste trabalho demonstram uma elevada prevalência de mastite subclínica em rebanhos bubalinos no Nordeste do Brasil, especialmente causadas por Staphylococcus coagulase negativa (SCN). Recomenda-se que o processo de ordenha seja aprimorado, incluindo melhorias na higiene e treinamento de ordenhadores, a fim de reduzir a frequência da doença nos rebanhos.

Evaluation by fluorescence spectroscopy of the most appropriate renal region for obtaining biopsies: a study in the rat.

INTRODUCTION: Renal puncture biopsies are directed at the lower poles of the organ to decrease the risk of hemorrhage and complications. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate by fluorescence spectroscopy (FS) the most appropriate renal region (in terms of metabolic changes) to obtain a biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The kidneys of 33 Rattus norvegicus rats were submitted to FS detection in the upper and lower poles and in the middle third. Excitations were generated with lasers at wavelengths of 408, 442, and 532 nm. Animals were divided at random into groups of warm ischemia (30, 60, and 120 minutes), whose kidneys were again analyzed by FS, as well as after 5 minutes of reperfusion using the same excitation beams in the same renal regions. Then the kidneys underwent histologic preparation and examination. RESULTS: The middle third area of the rat's kidneys proved to be significantly more sensitive to ischemic and reperfusion changes than the renal poles, as determined by FS (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The middle third of the kidney was the most appropriate site for a renal biopsy to monitor a transplanted organ.

The role of calcium stores in apoptosis and autophagy.

The mechanisms that regulate programmed cell death, such as apoptosis, and the cellular "self-eating" phenomenon of autophagy, share many regulatory systems and common pathways. These mechanisms have been extensively investigated over the last few years. Some intracellular structures may determine and control the autophagic fate of the cell such as the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and lysosomes. The coordination and interrelation of these organelles are crucial in maintaining calcium levels and general cellular homeostasis, as well as in regulating cell life and death under physiological and pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and aging. In this review, we discuss the crosstalk between the aforementioned organelles and their influence in apoptotic and autophagic processes.

Virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance, and plasmid content of Escherichia coli isolated in swine commercial farms / Fatores de virulência, resistência aos antimicrobianos, presença de plasmídeos em Escherichia coli isoladas de amostras clínicas e ambientais de suínos

Virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Escherichia coli isolates were evaluated. A total of 80 E. coli isolates were evaluated, being 64 from clinical samples (intestinal content and fragments of organs from diarrheic piglets), seven from feces of clinically healthy piglets and sows, and nine environmental samples (five from facilities, two from feed, one from insect, and one from waste). Molecular characterization was performed by PCR detection of fimbriae and toxin genes and plasmid content determination. The isolates were also characterized according to their resistance or sensitivity to the following drugs: ampicillin, trimethoprim:sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline, amikacine, colistin, norfloxacin, florfenicol, enrofloxacin, cefalexin, trimethoprim, neomycin, chloramphenicol, and gentamicin. From 80 E. coli isolates, 53.8 percent were classified as enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), 2.5 percent were shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), and 43.8 percent showed a non specific pattern and were unclassified. One fecal isolate from non-diarrheic piglet was classified as ETEC by PCR. Clinical isolates showed resistance mainly for tetracycline and trimethoprim:sulfamethoxazole. Plasmidial DNA was observed in 70 isolates, being 78.5 percent of clinical isolates, 8.57 percent of non-diarrheic feces, and 12.8 percent of environment.

Os fatores de virulência e a resistência aos antimicrobianos foram avaliados em Escherichia coli. Um total de 80 isolados de E. coli, sendo 64 de amostras clínicas (conteúdo intestinal e fragmentos de órgãos de leitões diarreicos), sete das fezes de porcas e leitões saudáveis e nove de amostras ambientais (cinco de instalações, dois de alimentos, um de inseto e um de esterqueira). A caracterização molecular feita pela PCR objetivou detectar fimbrias e toxinas, bem como a determinação do conteúdo de plasmídeos. Os isolados foram caracterizados quanto à resistência ou sensibilidade às seguintes drogas: ampicilina, sulfazotrim, tetraciclina, amikacina, colistina, norfloxacina, florfenicol, enrofloxacina, cefalexina, trimetoprim, neomicina, cloranfenicol e gentamicina. Dos 80 isolados, 53,8 por cento foram classificados como E. coli enterotoxigênica (ETEC), 2,5 por cento como E. coli produtora de shiga toxina (STEC) e 43,8 por cento, por não apresentarem padrão específico, não foram classificadas. Pela PCR, um isolado de fezes de suíno sem diarreia foi classificado como ETEC. Os isolados das amostras clínicas foram principalmente resistentes à tetraciclina e à sulfazotrim. Em 70 isolados, observaram-se DNA plasmidial, destes 78,5 por cento foram obtidos de amostras clínicas, 8,57 por cento de leitões sadios e 12,8 por cento de amostras ambientais.

Identificação diferencial de Rhodococcus equi e Dietzia maris em bubalinos / Differential identification of Rhodococcus equi and Dietzia maris in buffaloes

Foram analisados 24 isolados bacterianos oriundos de leite e pele de búfalas (Bubalus bubalis), os quais foram previamente identificados como Rhodococcus equi com o auxílio de fenotipia concisa. Testes fenotípicos complementares e ferramentas moleculares foram utilizados com o objetivo de caracterizar esses isolados, bem como diferenciá-los de outros microrganismos intimamente relacionados. Observaram-se três fenótipos distintos, porém a identificação dos isolados foi inconclusiva. Apenas um dos isolados foi comprovado como sendo R. equi com a realização da PCR espécie-específica, sequenciamento e análise dos fragmentos de DNA. Os demais isolados só foram identificados pelo sequenciamento de fragmento do gene que codifica a região 16S do rRNA universal de bactérias, indicando tratar-se de Dietzia maris. O perfil de susceptibilidade aos antimicrobianos revelou maior resistência dos isolados de D. maris para oxacilina (96 por cento) e rifampicina (87 por cento). O isolado de R. equi apresentou resistência à amicacina, oxacilina, penicilina, rifampicina e tetraciclina. Alerta-se para o risco da incorreta identificação dos isolados baseados em testes fenotípicos concisos e para a necessidade de utilização de testes complementares para diferenciação entre R. equi e D. maris.

Twenty-four bacterial isolates from milk and skin of buffalo females (Bubalus bubalis), which previously had been identified as Rhodococcus equi by using a restricted number of phenotypical tests for bacterial characterization, were analyzed. The goal of this study was to perform the characterization of these isolates, as well as the differentiation of other microorganisms closely related by using additional phenotypical tests and molecular tools. Based on the phenotypical results, three different biotypes were obtained. However, the identification of the isolates was inconclusive. Only one of the isolates was confirmed as R. equi by the PCR specifically for this species, as well DNA sequencing and DNA fragment analysis. All the other isolates only could be precisely identified after the DNA sequencing, and they were characterized as Dietzia maris. The sensitivity profile to antimicrobials demonstrated the highest resistance of D. maris to oxacillin and rifampin, 96 percent and 87 percent, respectively. R. equi isolate, presented resistance to amikacin, oxacillin, penicillin, rifampin, and tetracycline. Thus, it is important to alert for the risk of the incorrect identification of the bacterial isolates by using diagnostic analysis based on phenotypical tests in order to differentiate R. equi and D. maris, besides the necessity to use complementary tests for differentiation of these microorganisms.

High sequence variability of myticin transcripts in hemocytes of immune-stimulated mussels suggests ancient host-pathogen interactions.

Small cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are host defense molecules detected in virtually all groups of organisms. To investigate the immune response mechanisms of Mytilus galloprovincialis, primary and suppression subtractive hybridization libraries were prepared from hemolymph of mussels injected with heat-inactivated bacteria or poly I:C, the latter mimicking viral infection. After DNA sequencing, sequence processing and similarity searching, a remarkable abundance of AMP mRNAs were identified. In detail, 25.9% and 32.4% AMP sequences from mussels infected with bacteria and 43.4% and 40.6% from mussels stimulated with poly I:C were detected by selective amplification of 180 differentially expressed genes and random sequencing of 967 cDNA clones, respectively. The 232 ESTs matching with myticin A and B (Mytilus spp.) displayed considerable sequence variability and revealed a third cluster proposed here as myticin C. Phenetic analysis of the translated myticin ESTs yielded 74 and 25 variants of the precursor and active peptide, respectively, and confirmed the high polymorphism of the new form. Myticin C shows typical features of the CSalphabeta AMP family (eight-cysteine array and secretory signal peptide) as well as amino acid variation, mainly in the anionic C-terminal region. The sequencing of one intronic region from genomic DNA, allowed us to detect 13 variants in 9 individual mussels referring them to one gene only. In addition to hemolymph, myticin C transcripts were detected in various mussel tissues, oocytes and early larval stages. The striking sequence variability and expression levels of myticins in mussels confirm the fundamental role of these natural antibiotics in the ancient host-pathogen interplay of mutual inhibition, evasion and adaptation strategies.

Influência do biofeedback respiratório associado ao padão quiet breathing sobre a função pulmonar e hábitos de respiradores bucais funcionais / Influence of respiratory biofeedback associated with a quiet breathing pattern on the pulmonary function and habits of functional mouth breathers

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os efeitos da utilização do biofeedback respiratório (BR) associado ao padrão quiet breathing sobre a perimetria torácica, função pulmonar, força dos músculos respiratórios e os seguintes hábitos de respiradores bucais funcionais (RBF): vigília de boca aberta, boca aberta durante o sono, baba no travesseiro, despertar difícil, ronco e sono inquieto. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliadas 20 crianças RBF, as quais foram submetidas a 15 sessões de BR por meio do biofeedback pletsmovent (MICROHARD® V1.0), o qual proporciona o biofeedback dos movimentos tóraco-abdominais. Perimetria torácica, espirometria e medidas das pressões respiratórias máximas estáticas foram realizadas antes e após a terapia. Questões respondidas pelos responsáveis foram utilizadas para avaliar os hábitos dos RBF. Os dados foram analisados por meio de teste t de Student para dados pareados e testes não paramétricos. RESULTADOS: O uso do BR associado ao padrão quiet breathing não produziu alterações significativas na perimetria torácica e nos valores de volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1), capacidade vital forçada (CVF), pico de fluxo expiratório (PFE), índice de Tiffeneau (IT) e na pressão expiratória máxima (PEmáx). Entretanto, a pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx) apresentou diferença estatisticamente significativa (-53,6 ± 2,9 cmH2O vs. -65,0 ± 6,0 cmH2O; p< 0,05) e ocorreram mudanças significativas nos hábitos avaliados. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados permitem concluir que o BR associado ao padrão quiet breathing melhora a força da musculatura inspiratória e hábitos em RBF, podendo ser, portanto, utilizado como uma das formas de terapia nesses indivíduos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of using respiratory biofeedback associated with a quiet breathing pattern, on chest circumference, pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and the following functional mouth-breathing habits: watching things with mouth open, sleeping with mouth open, dribbling on the pillow, difficulty in waking up, snoring and restlessness during sleep. METHOD: Twenty functional mouth-breathing children were evaluated. They underwent 15 sessions of respiratory biofeedback by means of the biofeedback pletsmovent (MICROHARD® V1.0), which provided biofeedback on thoracoabdominal movements. Chest circumference, spirometry and maximum static respiratory pressures were determined before and after the therapy. The adults responsible for these children were asked questions about the children's mouth-breathing habits. Student's t test for paired data and non-parametric tests were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: The use of respiratory biofeedback in association with a quiet breathing pattern did not produce significant alterations in chest circumference or in forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), Tiffeneau index (TI) or maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). However, there was a significant difference in maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (-53.6 ± 2.9 cmH2O vs. -65.0 ± 6.0 cmH2O; p< 0.05) and there were significant changes in the evaluated habits. CONCLUSION: The results allow the conclusion that respiratory biofeedback associated with a quiet breathing pattern improves the inspiratory muscle strength and habits of functional mouth-breathers. It can therefore be used as a therapeutic method for such individuals.