Una plaga citadina peligrosa: los murciélagos / A dangerous urban pest: bats

Los murciélagos son mamíferos vertebrados presentes en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, estimándose una población de 4 animales por habitante. Son portadores de varias enfermedades importantes y además empeoran las condiciones respiratorias de enfermos crónicos. En el campo cumplen una interesante función, ya que se alimentan de insectos perjudiciales para las siembras. El guano puede ser útil en el abono de la tierra debido al aporte de carbono y nitrógeno. En las ciudades su presencia tiene consecuencias diferentes. Se encuentran en los taparrollos de las habitaciones, así como también en todas las oquedades de muros, árboles, grietas, etc. Se exponen aquí los peligros y los cuidados que deben tenerse en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires ante la invasión de estos quirópteros. (AU)

Bats are vertebrate mammals present in the City of Buenos Aires, with an estimated population of 4 animals per inhabitant. They are carriers of several important diseases and also worsen the respiratory conditions of the chronically ill. In rural areas they fulfill an interesting function, since they feed on insects harmful to crops. Guano can be useful in soil fertilization due to its contribution of carbon and nitrogen. In cities their presence has different consequences. They are found in the roll covers of the rooms as well as in all the hollows of walls, trees, cracks, etc. The dangers and precautions to be taken in the city of Buenos Aires in the face of the invasion of these chiroptera are described here. (AU)

Pruebas no invasivas para el tamizaje del cáncer colon: fundamentos básico-clínicos y recientes avances biotecnológicos / Non-invasive tests for colorectal cancer screening: basic-clinical fundamentals and recent biotechnological advances

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent neoplasia worldwide. Despite the significant advances in surgical techniques and the development of new targeted antineoplastic therapies for this type of tumor, primary prevention and early diagnosis of malignant precursor lesions will continue to be the best strategies to reduce their incidence, morbidity, and mortality. Technologies for CRC screening can be classified into two groups, those of an invasive nature, such as colonoscopy and all its different modalities of use, and those of a non-invasive nature, such as laboratory tests and imaging. This review, will focus exclusively on non-invasive screening tests, excluding imaging. Specifically, it will address those that use depositions as a sample. This review will approach the latest international recommendations, regarding the age at which they should be used, their technical-biological bases, the two main types currently used (biochemical and immunological), and we will put into perspective their advantages and their possible disadvantages. Towards the end of this article, the most recent biotechnological developments in relation to molecular tests based on the study of blood samples, will be discussed. Although these tests are not yet in routine clinical use given their high costs, they are promising for the early detection of CRC.

El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es la tercera neoplasia más común en todo el mundo. A pesar de los avances significativos en las técnicas quirúrgicas y en el desarrollo de nuevas terapias antineoplásicas para este tipo de tumor, la prevención primaria y el diagnóstico precoz de lesiones precursoras malignas siguen siendo las mejores estrategias para reducir la incidencia, morbilidad y mortalidad asociadas al CCR. Existen dos tipos de tecnologías para el tamizaje del CCR: las invasivas, como la colonoscopia, y las no invasivas, como los ensayos de laboratorio y la imagenología. Esta revisión, se centrará exclusivamente en las pruebas de tamizaje no invasivas que utilizan muestras de deposiciones, excluyendo las imágenes. Se abordarán las últimas recomendaciones internacionales sobre el momento etario en que se deben utilizar, sus bases técnico-biológicas, los dos principales tipos utilizados en la actualidad (bioquímico e inmunológico) y pondremos en perspectiva sus ventajas y posibles desventajas. Al final de esta revisión, se discutirá brevemente los últimos avances biotecnológicos relacionados con pruebas moleculares basadas en el estudio de muestras sanguíneas. Aunque estas pruebas aún no son de uso clínico habitual debido a sus altos costos, representan una prometedora innovación para la detección temprana del CCR.

¿La detección de toxinas de Clostridioides difficile es necesaria cuando se detecta la enzima glutamato deshidrogenasa? / Is Clostridioides difficile toxins detection necessary when the glutamate dehydrogenase enzyme is detected?

Resumen Introducción: Clostridioides difficile causa diarrea y colitis pseudomembranosa. Su diagnóstico se realiza con la detección de glutamato-deshidrogenasa (GDH) o las toxinas A y B y se confirma con pruebas de amplificación de ácidos nucleicos. Objetivo: Definir si la determinación de GDH es redundante a la de las toxinas. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de muestras fecales de pacientes con sospecha de infección por Clostridioides difficile. Las toxinas y GDH se determinaron mediante inmunocromatografía. Se realizó una simulación bayesiana con los cocientes de probabilidad; se consideró significativo un valor de p < 0.05. Resultados: Se analizaron 329 resultados de GDH y toxinas A y B. Se encontró una prevalencia de infección de Clostridioides difficile de 18.2 %. La sensibilidad y especificidad de la prueba de GDH fue de 0.90 y 0.89, respectivamente. El cociente de probabilidad positivo fue de 8.9 y el negativo, de 0.11. Conclusiones: Un resultado negativo de GDH disminuye considerablemente la probabilidad de infección, pero no la descarta. La detección de toxinas de Clostridioides difficile puede ser necesaria en instituciones donde la amplificación de ácidos nucleicos no es económica o accesible.

Abstract Introduction: Clostridioides difficile causes diarrhea and pseudomembranous colitis. Its diagnosis is made with glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) or toxins A and B detection and is confirmed with nucleic acid amplification tests. Objective: To define if GDH determination is redundant to that of toxins. Methods: Retrospective, observational study in diarrheal stools of patients with suspected Clostridioides difficile infection. Toxins and GDH were determined by immunochromatography. Bayesian simulation was performed with likelihood ratios; a p-value < 0.05 was regarded as significant. Results: 329 GDH and toxin A and B results were analyzed. Clostridioides difficile infection prevalence was 18.2 %. Sensitivity and specificity of the GDH test were 0.90 and 0.89, respectively. Positive likelihood ratio was 8.9, and negative was 0.11. Conclusions: A negative GDH result considerably reduces the probability of infection but does not rule it out. Clostridioides difficile toxins detection may be necessary in institutions where nucleic acid amplification is not affordable or accessible.

Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection in Santa Inês lambs: impact on feed digestibility, blood markers, and nitrogen balance / Infecção por Trichostrongylus colubriformis em cordeiros Santa Inês: impacto na digestibilidade dos alimentos, marcadores sanguíneos e balanço de nitrogênio

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection on the hemato-biochemical parameters, feed digestibility, and nitrogen balance in Santa Inês lambs. Eighteen three-month-old Santa Ines castrated male lambs (16.9 ± 1.43 kg of body weight) were randomly distributed in two experimental treatments: infected with T. colubriformis (I, n = 9) and uninfected (U, n = 9). The I group received a total of 45,000 L3 larvae of T. colubriformis (5,000 infective larvae, three times per week, for three weeks). During the experimental period, blood, feed digestibility, and nitrogen balance were evaluated. The I lambs showed a reduction in erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, and total proteins, as well as an increase in platelets and eosinophils compared to those in the U group (p < 0.05). With the exception of total protein content, these values were within the normal range for the species. Furthermore, lower dry matter and organic matter digestibility were observed in the I lambs (p = 0.08). The present findings highlight that T. colubriformis infection has the potential to impair some hemato-biochemical parameters as well as feed digestibility in lambs, which could affect their productivity.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da infecção por Trichostrongylus colubriformis nos parâmetros hemato-bioquímicos, digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes e balanço de nitrogênio de cordeiros Santa Inês. Dezoito cordeiros Santa Inês, de três meses de idade e castrados (16,9 ± 1,43 kg de peso corporal), foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois tratamentos experimentais: infectados com T. colubriformis (I, n = 9) e não infectados (U, n = 9). O grupo I recebeu um total de 45.000 larvas L3 de T. colubriformis (5.000 larvas infectantes, três vezes por semana, durante três semanas). Durante o período experimental, foram avaliadas as variáveis sanguíneas, digestibilidade e balanço de nitrogênio. Os cordeiros I apresentaram redução de eritrócitos, hemoglobina, hematócrito, volume corpuscular médio e proteínas totais, além de aumento de plaquetas e eosinófilos, quando comparados ao grupo U (p< 0,05). Contudo, exceto para proteínas totais, os valores estavam dentro do intervalo normal para a espécie. Além disso, a digestibilidade da matéria seca e da matéria orgânica foi menor no grupo I de cordeiros (p = 0,08). Os presentes achados destacam que a infecção por T. colubriformis teve potencial para prejudicar alguns parâmetros hemato-bioquímicos, bem como a digestibilidade aparente da dieta, o que poderia afetar a produtividade dos cordeiros.

Methylophiopogonanone A, an Ophiopogon homoisoflavonoid, alleviates high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia: assessment of its potential mechanism

Methylophiopogonanone A (MO-A), a homoisoflavonoid extracted from Ophiopogon japonicus, has been shown to attenuate myocardial apoptosis and improve cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, the hypolipidemic effects remain unknown. This study was performed to investigate a potential hypolipidemic effect of MO-A in hyperlipidemia rats, as well as its underlying mechanism of action. A rat model of hyperlipidemia was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Animals were randomly divided into three groups (n=8/group): normal control group (NC), HFD group, and HFD+MO-A (10 mg·kg-1·d-1) treatment group. The effects of MO-A on serum lipids, body weight, activity of lipoprotein metabolism enzyme, and gene expression of lipid metabolism were evaluated in HFD-induced rats. In HFD-induced rats, pretreatment with MO-A decreased the body weight gain and reduced serum and hepatic lipid levels. In addition, pretreatment with MO-A improved the activities of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase in serum and liver, down-regulated mRNA expression of acetyl CoA carboxylase and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c, and up-regulated mRNA expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α in the liver. Our results indicated that MO-A showed strong ability to ameliorate the hyperlipidemia in HFD-induced rats. MO-A might be a potential candidate for prevention of overweight and dyslipidemia induced by HFD.

Effect of chemical ingredients B and C in Kansui stir-baked with vinegar on fecal metabolomics in rats / 中国中药杂志

To reveal the toxic mechanism of Kansui stir-baked with vinegar(VEK), conducta comparative study on the metabolites of fecal samples of rats before and after being treated with chemical constituents group B and C(VEKB/VEKC) extracted from VEK by metabolomics approach. The fecal samples of each group were analyzed using ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry(UFLC-Q-TOF-MS). Then the data was processed by principal component analysis(PCA) and partial least square discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA) to screen and identify biomarkers relating to the toxicity of VEK. Besides, t-test was adopted for univariate statistical analysis, so as to study the changes of these biomarkers in drug groups before and after being treated with VEKB/VEKC and explore the effect of VEKB/VEKC on the metabolism of rat feces. Furthermore, the toxic mechanism of VEKB/VEKC was explored based on the results of the metabolic pathway analysis. The results displayed that compared with control group, the metabolism of fecal samples of VEKB and VEKC treated groups show obvious changes, and the VEKB treated group show more significant changes. A total of 16 potential biomarkers and 5 metabolic pathways relating to the toxicity of VEK were found and identified. And the toxicity of VEK might be associated with the disorder of such metabolic pathways as tryptophan metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, purine metabolism, and degradation of valine, leucine and isoleucine. This study provides a scientific basis for the clinical safety application of VEK.

Investigating effect of Faeces Bombycis on intestinal microflora in rats with syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao by high-throughput sequencing / 中国中药杂志

The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of Faeces Bombycis(FB) on the intestinal microflora in rats with syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao, and to explore its mechanism in regulating intestinal microflora from the perspective of microorganisms contained in FB. The contents of antidiuretic hormone(ADH) and C-reactive protein(CRP) in serum and aquaporin 3(AQP3) in jejunum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Illumina Miseq platform was used for high-throughput sequencing of the rat feces and FB. The ELISA results showed that as compared with the normal control group, the contents of ADH and CRP in the model group were significantly increased(P<0.05), and the content of AQP3 was significantly decreased(P<0.05). After drug administration, the ADH, CRP and AQP3 contents were recovered. Sequencing of rat feces showed that the ACE, Chao1 and Shannon indexes of the intestinal microflora were the lowest in the model group. As compared with the normal control group, the levels from phylum to genus were all significantly changed in model group, and Proteobacteria, Acinetobacter, Anaerobacter, Pseudomonas, and Parabacteroides levels were significantly increased(P<0.05), while Marvinbryantia level was significantly decreased(P<0.05). As compared with the model group, Proteobacteria was significantly decreased in the FB low and high dose groups(P<0.05), and Acinetobacter, Anaerobacter, Pseudomonas, Parabacteroides levels were significantly decreased in the low, medium and high dose groups(P<0.05), while Lachnoanaerobaculum, Intestinimonas and Marvinbryantia were increased significantly in the high dose group(P<0.05). Sequencing analysis of FB showed that the relative abundance of Leclercia, Pantoea, Brachybacterium, Shimwellia, Hartmannibacter, Klebsiella, Serratia, Aurantimonas, Paenibacillus and Bacillus was high in the FB, but they were basically not present or little in the rat feces. In conclusion, FB may play a role in the treatment of "syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao" by balancing the intestinal microflora, and this effect may be related to the metabolites of microorganisms in the FB.

Acute effects of ayahuasca in a juvenile non-human primate model of depression

Objective: The incidence rate of major depression in adolescents reaches approximately 14%. This disorder is usually recurrent, without remission of symptoms even after pharmacological treatment, and persists throughout adult life. Since the effects of antidepressants take approximately 2 weeks to begin, new pharmacological therapies are under continuous exploration. Recent evidence suggests that psychedelics could produce rapid antidepressant effects. In this study, we evaluated the potential antidepressant effects of ayahuasca in a juvenile non-human primate model of depression. Methods: While living with their families, juvenile marmosets (8 males; 7 females) were observed on alternate days for four weeks during a baseline phase. This was followed by 8 weeks of an induced depressive state protocol, the social isolated context (IC), in which the animals were monitored in the first and last weeks. Subsequently, five males and four females were randomly selected for treatment, first with a single administration of saline vehicle (1.67 mL/300 g of body weight, via gavage), followed by a single dose of ayahuasca (1.67 mL/300 g of body weight, via gavage). Both phases lasted 1 week and the animals were monitored daily. A third week of sampling was called the tardive-pharmacological effects phase. In all phases the marmosets were assessed for behavior, fecal cortisol levels, and body weight. Results: After IC, the animals presented typical hypocortisolemia, but cortisol recovered to baseline levels 24 h after an acute dose of ayahuasca; this recovery was not observed in vehicle-treated animals. Additionally, in males, ayahuasca, but not the vehicle, reduced scratching, a stereotypic behavior, and increased feeding. Ayahuasca treatment also improved body weight to baseline levels in both sexes. The ayahuasca-induced behavioral response had long-term effects (14 days). Thus, in this translational juvenile animal model of depression, ayahuasca presented beneficial effects. Conclusions: These results can contribute to the validation of ayahuasca as an antidepressant drug and encourage new studies on psychedelic drugs as a tool for treating mood disorders, including for adolescents with early-onset depression.

Intestinal parasitosis, undernutrition and socio-environmental factors in schoolchildren from Clorinda Formosa, Argentina / Parasitosis intestinal, desnutrición y factores socio-ambientales en niños escolares de Clorinda Formosa, Argentina

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate intestinal parasitosis, undernutrition and socio-environmental factors in schoolchildren from Clorinda (Formosa, Argentina). Materials and Methods Serial fecal samples and anal swabs of 114 schoolchildren, canine feces and soil samples were analyzed. Body weight and height of 215 schoolchildren were measured and undernutrition was estimated according to the World Health Organization criteria. Socio-environmental variables were assessed by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. Results 78.1% of children were infected by at least one of the 12 species identified and 70.8% had multiple parasitic infections. Blastocystis sp., Giardia lamblia and Enterobius vermicularis were the most prevalent. Additionally, 17.5% of children were infected by at least one geohelminth (e.g. Ascarislumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms). 64.3% of canine of canine feces were positive and six parasitic species were found; the most frequent were Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala and G. lamblia. Furthermore, 37.5% of soil samples showed zoonotic parasites (i.e. Ascaris sp., Toxocara sp.). Finally, 10.0% of the children were undernourished and 85.7% of them had parasites. The risk for parasitosis was higher in children that lived in houses with inadequate solid waste disposal and whose parents were unemployed or had temporary jobs. Conclusions The lack of environmental sanitation, unstable employment of parents and the presence of zoonotic species were the most relevant factors observed. Consequently, these conditions result in an increase of parasitic infections and negatively influence the growth of children.(AU)

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar la parasitosis intestinal, la desnutrición y los factores socio-ambientales en escolares de Clorinda (Formosa, Argentina). Materiales y Métodos Se analizaron muestras fecales y escobillados anales seriados de 114 escolares, heces caninas y muestras de suelo. Se midió el peso corporal y la talla de 215 escolares y se evaluó la desnutrición según los criterios de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Las variables socio-ambientales se evaluaron mediante una encuesta semiestructurada. Resultados El 78,1% de los niños estuvieron parasitados por al menos 1 de las 12 especies identificadas y el 70,8% presentó parasitosis múltiples. Blastocystis sp., Giardia lamblia y Enterobius vermicularis fueron las más prevalentes. Además, el 17,5% de los niños estaban infectados con al menos un geohelminto (e.g. Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, ancylostomideos). El 64,3% de las heces caninas resultaron positivas y se encontraron seis especies parasitarias; las más frecuentes fueron Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala y G. lamblia. Además, el 37,5% de las muestras de suelo mostraron parásitos zoonóticos (i.e. Ascaris sp., Toxocara sp.). Finalmente, el 10% de los niños estaban desnutridos y el 85,7% de ellos resultaron parasitados. El riesgo de parasitosis fue mayor en los niños que vivían en casas con eliminación inadecuada de desechos sólidos y cuyos padres estaban desempleados o tenían empleos temporales. Conclusiones La falta de saneamiento ambiental, el empleo inestable de los padres y la presencia de especies zoo-nóticas fueron los factores observados más relevantes. En consecuencia, estas condiciones resultan en un aumento de las infecciones parasitarias e influyen negativamente en el crecimiento de los niños.(AU)

Onthophagus landolti and Canthon indigaceus chevrolati (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae) are attracted to the feces of ivermectin-treated cattle in the Mexican tropics / Onthophagus landolti y Canthon indigaceus chevrolati (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae) son atraídos por las heces de ganado tratado con ivermectina en el trópico mexicano

Abstract Ivermectin (IVM) is widely used for parasite control in livestock in the tropics. Residual IVM in feces conserves its insecticide activity for weeks and can harm dung beetle (DB) species. Attraction to the feces of IVM-treated cattle was tested using the DB species Onthophagus landolti (Harold) and Canthon indigaceus chevrolati (Harold) as models. Experiments were done under controlled laboratory conditions, semi-controlled field conditions and uncontrolled field conditions. Olfactometers were used in the controlled and semi-controlled trials. The control treatment was baited IVM-free feces, and the experimental treatments were the feces of cattle treated with 1 % IVM (subcutaneous administration; single, 0.2 mg/kg bw dosage) and collected at 5, 14, 21 and 28 days post-treatment. The uncontrolled field trial involved pitfall traps baited with IVM-free feces or feces from IVM-treated cattle collected five days post-treatment. Under controlled and semi-controlled conditions, the feces of IVM-treated cattle (at 5, 14, 21 or 28 days post-treatment) attracted more O. landolti and C. i. chevrolati individuals than IVM-free feces (P < 0.05). The same response occurred under uncontrolled conditions. This clear attraction for IVM-containing cattle feces by the studied DB species highlights that incorrect IVM use may pose a risk to DB communities in cattle production systems.(AU)

Resumen La ivermectina (IVM) es ampliamente utilizada para el control de parásitos en el ganado en los trópicos. La IVM residual en las heces conserva su actividad insecticida durante semanas y puede dañar diversas especies de escarabajos estercoleros. La atracción a las heces del ganado tratado con IVM se probó usando a las especies Onthophagus landolti (Harold) y Canthon indigaceus chevrolati (Harold) como modelos de estudio. Los experimentos se realizaron bajo condiciones de laboratorio controladas, condiciones de campo semicontroladas y condiciones de campo no controladas. Se utilizaron olfatómetros en los ensayos controlados y semicontrolados. El tratamiento de control consistió en heces exentas de IVM, y los tratamientos experimentales fueron heces de ganado tratado con IVM al 1 % (administración subcutánea, dosis única, 0.2 mg / kg pv) las cuales se recogieron a los 5, 14, 21 y 28 días después del tratamiento al ganado. El ensayo de campo no controlado incluyó trampas de caída libre o pitfall cebadas con heces libres de IVM y con heces de ganado tratado con IVM recogido cinco días después del tratamiento. En condiciones controladas y semicontroladas, las heces del ganado tratado con IVM (a los 5, 14, 21 y 28 días después del tratamiento) atrajeron más individuos O. landolti yC. i. chevrolati que las heces sin IVM (P < 0.05). La misma respuesta ocurrió bajo condiciones no controladas. Esta clara atracción a las heces de ganado que contienen IVM por las especies estudiadas pone de relieve que el uso incorrecto de IVM puede plantear un riesgo para las comunidades de escarabajos estercoleros en los sistemas de producción ganadera.(AU)

Environmental enteric dysfunction and growth / Disfunção entérica ambiental e crescimento

Abstract Objective: To describe the current indicators of environmental enteric dysfunction and its association with linear growth deficit and the height-for-age anthropometric indicator. Data sources: Narrative review with articles identified in PubMed and Scopus databases using combinations of the following words: environmental, enteric, dysfunction, enteropathy, and growth, as well as the authors' personal records. Data synthesis: In the last 15 years, new non-invasive markers have been investigated to characterize environmental enteric dysfunction; however, the best tests to be used have not yet been identified. There is evidence that, in environmental enteric dysfunction, a systemic inflammatory process may also occur as a consequence of increased intestinal permeability, in addition to intestinal mucosa abnormalities. Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine and changes in fecal microbiota profile have also been identified. There is evidence indicating that environmental enteric dysfunction can impair not only full growth but also the neuropsychomotor development and response to orally administered vaccines. It is important to emphasize that the environmental enteric dysfunction is not a justification for not carrying out vaccination, which must follow the regular schedule. Another aspect to emphasize is the greater risk for those children who had height impairment in early childhood, possibly associated with environmental enteric dysfunction, to present overweight and obesity in adulthood when exposed to a high calorie diet, which has been called "triple burden." Conclusions: According to the analyzed evidence, the control of environmental enteric dysfunction is very important for the full expression of growth, development, and vaccine response in the pediatric age group.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever os indicadores atuais da disfunção entérica ambiental e sua relação com déficit de crescimento linear e com o indicador antropométrico estatura-idade. Fontes dos dados: Revisão narrativa com artigos identificados no PubMed e Scopus com o uso de combinações das seguintes palavras: environmental, enteric, dysfunction, enteropathy e growth e dos arquivos pessoais dos autores. Síntese dos dados: Nos últimos 15 anos, vem sendo pesquisados novos marcadores não invasivos para caracterizar disfunção entérica ambiental. No entanto, ainda não foram identificados os melhores testes a serem usados. Existem evidências de que na disfunção entérica ambiental, além das anormalidades da mucosa intestinal, pode ocorrer também processo inflamatório sistêmico em consequência da maior permeabilidade intestinal. Sobrecrescimento bacteriano no intestino delgado e mudança no perfil da microbiota fecal também estão sendo identificados. Evidências indicam que a disfunção entérica ambiental pode comprometer não somente o pleno crescimento como também comprometer o desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor e a resposta de vacinas administradas por via oral. É importante destacar que a disfunção entérica ambiental não é justificativa para não fazer a vacinação, que deve seguir o calendário normal. Um outro aspecto a ser ressaltado é o risco maior dessas crianças que tiveram comprometimento da estatura na infância precoce, possivelmente associado à disfunção entérica ambiental, apresentarem na idade adulta excesso de peso e obesidade quando expostas a uma dieta rica em calorias, o que tem sido chamado "triple burden". Conclusões: De acordo com as evidências analisadas, o controle da disfunção entérica ambiental é muito importante para plena expressão do crescimento, desenvolvimento e resposta vacinal na faixa etária pediátrica.

Sangue oculto nas fezes: uma comparação entre os métodos químico e imunoquímico / Fecal occult blood: a comparison of chemical and immunochemical tests

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Colorectal bleeding is a warning sign that may be identified by fecal occult blood testing. A positive fecal occult blood test result requires a subsequent colonoscopy, a costly and invasive examination. Therefore, the use of diagnostic tests with optimal sensitivity and specificity is warranted. In this study, we evaluated four different fecal occult blood tests in 176 patients undergoing colonoscopy and compared their results. OBJECTIVE: To assess the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of chemical and immunochemical fecal occult blood tests in patients undergoing colonoscopy and to evaluate the degree of concordance between the tests and colonoscopy. METHODS: Patients with indications for colonoscopy also underwent fecal occult blood testing by chemical (toluidine test) and immunochemical methods, employing three commercially available kits. Based on the endoscopic findings, the colonoscopy was rated as positive or negative for colorectal bleeding. The degree of concordance between the fecal occult blood tests and the colonoscopy was evaluated by the kappa index. RESULTS: Forty-four (25%) colonoscopies were categorized as positive for colorectal bleeding. The toluidine test presented lower concordance than the immunochemical tests, which showed moderate concordance with the colonoscopy. The toluidine test had the least sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. CONCLUSION: The immunochemical fecal occult blood tests showed greater sensitivity, specificity and predictive values in detecting colorectal bleeding. The immunochemical tests had superior indexes of agreement with colonoscopy compared to the toluidine test.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O sangramento colorretal é considerado um sinal de alarme e não deve ser ignorado. O resultado positivo de um teste de pesquisa de sangue oculto nas fezes (PSOF) requer investigação complementar com colonoscopia, exame invasivo e de alto custo. Justifica-se, portanto, a aplicação de um teste diagnóstico mais sensível e específico. No presente estudo, foram avaliados quatro diferentes testes de PSOF em 176 pacientes submetidos à colonoscopia e seus resultados foram comparados. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a sensibilidade, a especificidade e os valores de predição dos testes químico e imunoquímico de PSOF em pacientes submetidos à colonoscopia e avaliar o grau de concordância entre os testes de PSOF e a colonoscopia. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com indicação de realizar colonoscopia foram submetidos também à PSOF pelo método químico (o-toluidina) e pelo método imunoquímico, empregando três kits comerciais disponíveis no mercado. Fundamentado nos achados endoscópicos, a colonoscopia foi categorizada em positiva ou negativa, de acordo com a possível fonte de sangramento colorretal. O grau de concordância entre os testes de PSOF foi avaliado pelo índice kappa. RESULTADOS: Quarenta e quatro (25%) colonoscopias foram categorizadas como positivas quanto à fonte de sangramento colorretal. O teste da o-toluidina mostrou menor concordância que os testes imunoquímicos, os quais apresentaram moderada concordância com a colonoscopia. O teste da o-toluidina revelou menor sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo e valor preditivo negativo. CONCLUSÃO: Os testes imunoquímicos revelaram maior sensibilidade, especificidade e valores de predição na detecção de sangramento colorretal. Os testes imunoquímicos apresentaram melhores índices de concordância com a colonoscopia, quando comparados ao teste da o-toluidina.

Apparent digestibility of conventional and alternative feedstuffs by hybrid tambacu juveniles

ABSTRACT The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC's) of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and gross energy (GE) of conventional feedstuffs (cottonseed meal-CSM, soybean meal-SBM, wheat bran-WHB, corn-COR) and regional alternative feedstuffs (common bean residue meal-CBR, mesquite meal-MES, pasta by-product meal-PBM) were determined for hybrid juvenile tambacu Colossoma macropomum × Piaractus mesopotamicus. The apparent DM and GE digestibility of feedstuffs decreased (p<0.05) as fiber content of the ingredients increased. No differences (p>0.05) were found among ADC's of PBM and COR. The lowest CP ADC among energy sources was observed in MES; the lowest CP ADC among plant protein sources was observed in CBR. Information about the ADC's of conventional and alternative feedstuffs for tambacu is essential to formulate low-cost diets and can contribute to regional development.

Calprotectina fecal: utilidad en el diagnóstico diferencial de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal y síndrome intestino irritable en adultos / Fecal Calprotectin: utility in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome in adults

Differentiation between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be complex as their symptoms are often similar and unspecific. Fecal biomarkers could be useful to select patients with suspected organic diseases for colonoscopy, with the aim to improve early diagnosis and to avoid unnecessary invasive studies. Fecal calprotectin (FC) is a protein found mainly in neutrophils that is released into the feces as a result of cell disruption and apoptosis. Currently, FC is a simple and non-invasive biomarker of intestinal inflammation. Inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders are associated with high levels of FC, as occurs in IBD. This review focuses on FC as a useful tool for differential diagnosis between IBS and IBD in adults. (AU)

Evaluation of methods for the quantification of ether extract contents in forage and cattle feces

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to compare the estimates of ether extract (EE) contents obtained by the Randall method and by the high-temperature method of the American Oil Chemist's Society (AOCS; Am 5-04) in forages (n = 20) and cattle feces (n = 15). The EE contents were quantified by using the Randall extraction or AOCS method and XT4 filter bags or cartridges made of qualitative filter paper (80 g/m²) as containers for the samples. It was also evaluated the loss of particles, and concentration of residual chlorophyll after extraction and the recovery of protein and minerals in the material subjected to extraction. Significant interaction was observed between extraction method and material for EE contents. The EE estimates using the AOCS method were higher, mainly in forages. No loss of particles was observed with different containers. The chlorophyll contents in the residues of cattle feces were not affected by the extraction method; however, residual chlorophyll was lower using the AOCS method in forages. There was complete recovery of the protein and ash after extraction. The results suggest that AOCS method produces higher estimates of EE contents in forages and cattle feces, possibly by providing greater extraction of non-fatty EE.

Effects of probiotic intake on intestinal bifidobacteria of celiac patients / Efeitos do consumo de probióticos sobre as bifidobactérias intestinais de pacientes celíacos

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Healthy individuals exhibit a significantly higher concentration of faecal bifidobacteria in comparison to celiac patients. Even though there are potential benefits in probiotic usage, they have been little explored as an adjunctive therapy in celiac disease. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at the comparison of faecal bifidobacteria concentration and pH among celiac patients and healthy subjects before and after the daily intake of 100 g of yogurt containing probiotic for a thirty-day period. METHODS Feces from 17 healthy subjects and 14 celiac patients were analyzed, in which stool culture was performed for the isolation and quantification of faecal bifidobacteria. Furthermore, Gram’s method was employed for the microscopic analysis of the colonies, while the identification of the Bifidobacterium genus was made through determination of the fructose-6-phosphate phosphoketolase enzyme. Faecal pH was measured using a calibrated pHmeter. RESULTS Faecal bifidobacteria concentration before probiotic consumption was significantly higher in healthy individuals (2.3x108±6.3x107 CFU/g) when compared to celiac patients (1.0x107±1.7x107 CFU/g). Faecal pH values did not show a significant difference. After the daily consumption of probiotic-containing yogurt both groups showed a significant increase in the concentration of faecal bifidobacteria, but healthy subjects presented significantly higher bifidobacteria concentrations (14.7x108±0.2x108 CFU/g) than the celiac group (0.76x108±0.1x108 CFU/g). The obtained pH values from both groups were not significantly different, being 7.28±0.518 for the celiac patients and 7.07±0.570 for healthy individuals after the probiotic intake. CONCLUSION The probiotic supplementation significantly increased the number of bifidobacteria in the feces of celiac patients, although it was not sufficient to reach the concentration found in healthy individuals prior to its consumption.

RESUMO CONTEXTO Indivíduos saudáveis apresentam uma concentração de bifidobactérias fecais significativamente maior em comparação a pacientes celíacos. Apesar de haver benefícios potenciais no uso de probióticos na doença celíaca, estes têm sido pouco explorados como uma terapia adjuvante. OBJETIVO Este estudo objetivou a comparação do pH e concentração fecal de bifidobactérias entre pacientes celíacos e indivíduos saudáveis antes e após o consumo diário de 100 g de iogurte contendo probiótico por um período de 30 dias. MÉTODOS Foram analisadas fezes de 17 pessoas saudáveis e 14 pacientes celíacos, tendo sido realizada a coprocultura para o isolamento e quantificação de bifidobactérias fecais. Além disso, o método de Gram foi empregado na análise microscópica das colônias, enquanto a identificação do gênero Bifidobacterium foi feita através da determinação da enzima frutose-6-fosfato fosfocetolase. O pH fecal foi medido usando um pHmetro calibrado. RESULTADOS A concentração de bifidobactérias fecais antes do consumo do iogurte probiótico foi significativamente maior em indivíduos saudáveis (2.3x108±6.3x107 UFC/g) quando comparada aos celíacos (1.0x107±1.7x107 CFU/g). Por outro lado, o pH fecal de ambos os grupos não apresentou diferença significativa. Após o consumo diário de iogurte contendo probiótico, ambos os grupos tiveram um aumento significativo na concentração de bifidobactérias fecais, entretanto indivíduos saudáveis apresentaram concentrações de bifidobactérias significativamente maiores (14.7x108±0.2x108 UFC/g) do que o grupo celíaco (0.76x108±0.1x108 UFC/g). Os valores de pH obtidos de ambos os grupos não foram significativamente diferentes, sendo de 7.28±0.518 para os pacientes celíacos e de 7.07±0.570 para os indivíduos saudáveis após o consumo do probiótico. CONCLUSÃO A suplementação com probiótico aumentou significativamente o número de bifidobactérias nas fezes dos pacientes celíacos apesar de não ter sido suficiente para alcançar a concentração encontrada em indivíduos saudáveis antes do consumo de probióticos.

The partitioning of food resources between two rodents in the subtropical region of southern Brazil

ABSTRACT The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) and nutria (Myocastor coypus) are herbivorous semi-aquatic rodents. Although these rodents occur in sympatry in southern South America, little is known about how the two species interact in relationship to food resources. In this context, the aim of this study was to analyze the food resource overlap, the feeding strategy and the diversity of the diet of capybaras and nutria. A micro-histological analysis of feces was used to study the diets. A total of 48 plant species belonging to 10 families were identified in the diet of H. hydrochaeris, and a total of 49 species belonging to 14 families were identified in the diet of M. coypus. According to the Amundsen graphical method, both rodents adopted a specialized strategy for feeding on Poaceae and a generalized strategy for other families. The results of a multivariate analysis of the dietary data showed significant differences between the two rodent species and among the seasons. These differences between diets may be related to the different proportions of each food item eaten. However, the dietary overlap between the two rodents in the Taim wetland was high, suggesting that partitioning of other resources ensured the coexistence of the species.

Detección de coproantígenos de Echinococcus granulosus en canes de trabajadores de camales y comercializadores de vísceras en Lima metropolitana / Detection of stool antigens of Echinococcus granulosus in dogs belonging to slaughterhouse workers and offal merchants in Metropolitan Lima

RESUMEN Objetivo Demostrar la presencia de Echinoccocus granulosus en el hospedero definitivo en la ciudad de Lima, Perú, mediante la detección de antígenos del parásito en heces de canes pertenecientes a trabajadores y comercializadores de vísceras de centros de beneficio autorizados en Lima metropolitana. Métodos Se recolectaron muestras de heces de 58 canes, que fueron evaluadas utilizando la técnica coproELISA para detectar antígenos secretorio/excretorio de E. granulosus. Mediante una encuesta se obtuvo información sobre las prácticas de alimentación y el manejo de las mascotas. Resultados El 13,8% (8/58) de canes fue positivo a E. granulosus. En 27,8% (5/18) de los hogares se encontró al menos un animal positivo y se estimó que en las familias que tenían más de cuatro canes las posibilidades de encontrar al menos uno positivo eran mayores. En todos los hogares con al menos un can positivo sus mascotas se alimentaban con vísceras. El 94,4% (17) de los participantes no tenía conocimiento de las formas de contagio de la equinococosis. Conclusiones Los resultados muestran la presencia de hospederos definitivos en la zona urbana de Lima y subrayan la necesidad de aumentar la difusión de las prácticas para evitar la transmisión del parasito.

ABSTRACT Objective To demonstrate the presence of Echinoccocus granulosus in the definitive host in the city of Lima, Perú, by detecting parasite antigens in the stool of dogs belonging to offal handlers and merchants in authorized slaughterhouses in Metropolitan Lima. Methods Stool samples were collected from 58 dogs and examined using the coproELISA technique for the detection of secretory/excretory antigens of E. granulosus. A survey was conducted to obtain information on pet feeding and handling practices. Results Positivity to E. granulosus was detected in 13.8% (8/58) of the dogs. In 27.8% (5/18) of the homes, at least one animal showed positivity, and in families that had more than four dogs the chances of finding positivity in at least one dog were higher (P < 0.05). In all homes where at least one dog tested positive the pets were fed on offal. Of study participants, 94.4% (17) knew nothing about the routes of transmission of hydatid disease. Conclusions Results show the presence of definitive hosts in the urban area of Lima and underscore the need to more widely disseminate practices for the prevention of parasite transmission.

Fecal Calprotectin Level Reflects the Severity of Clostridium difficile Infection

Clostridium difficile is a significant nosocomial and community-acquired pathogen, and is the leading cause of antibiotic-induced diarrhea associated with high morbidity and mortality. Given that the treatment outcome depends on the severity of C. difficile infection (CDI), we aimed to establish an efficient method of assessing severity, and focused on the stool biomarker fecal calprotectin (FC). FC directly reflects the intestinal inflammation status of a patient, and can aid in interpreting the current guidelines, which requires the integration of indirect laboratory parameters. The distinction of 80 patients with CDI versus 71 healthy controls and 30 severe infection cases versus 50 mild cases was possible using FC as a marker. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.821 and 0.746 with a sensitivity of 75% and 70% and specificity of 79% and 80%, for severe versus mild cases, respectively. We suggest FC as a predictive marker for assessing CDI severity, which is expected to improve the clinical management of CDI.