Influence of SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by different chemical reagents on the humoral response evaluated in a murine model.

Viral inactivation for antibody induction purposes, among other applications, should ensure biosafety, completely avoiding the risk of infectivity, and preserving viral immunogenicity. ß-propiolactone (BPL) is one of the most used reagents for viral inactivation, despite its high toxicity and recent difficulties related to importation, experienced in Brazil during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In this context, the main objectives of this work were to test different inactivation procedures for SARS-CoV-2 and to evaluate the induction of neutralizing antibodies in mice immunized with antigenic preparations obtained after viral treatment with formaldehyde (FDE), glutaraldehyde (GDE), peroxide hydrogen (H2O2), as well as with viral proteins extract (VPE), in parallel with BPL. Verification of viral inactivation was performed by subsequent incubations of the inactivated virus in Vero cells, followed by cytopathic effect and lysis plaques observation, as well as by quantification of RNA load using reverse transcription-quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. Once viral inactivation was confirmed, cell culture supernatants were concentrated and purified. In addition, an aliquot inactivated by BPL was also subjected to viral protein extraction (VPE). The different antigens were prepared using a previously developed microemulsion as adjuvant, and were administered in a four-dose immunization protocol. Antibody production was comparatively evaluated by ELISA and Plaque Reduction Neutralization Tests (PRNT). All immunogens evaluated showed some level of IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the ELISA assay, with the highest levels presented by the group immunized with FDE-inactivated viral antigen. In the PRNT results, except for VPE-antigen, all other immunogens evaluated induced some level of neutralizing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, and the FDE-antigen stood out again with the most expressive values. Taken together, the present work shows that FDE can be an efficient and affordable alternative to BPL for the production of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 viral antigen.

Reverse and structural vaccinology approach to design a highly immunogenic multi-epitope subunit vaccine against Streptococcus pneumoniae infection.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a pathogen that resides in the upper respiratory tract of healthy individuals, maintaining a commensal relationship with its host. However, the virulent form may be the etiology of pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia, and other respiratory tract infections. Streptococcal diseases are preventable by vaccination; but currently available vaccines have some drawbacks, especially due to the high capsule variability of streptococci strains. Thus, an effective prevention strategy continues to be the focus of extensive research. In our work, several bioinformatics tools were used to identify immunogenic peptides from a selected pool of 46 conserved proteins from Streptococcus pneumoniae. In silico analysis showed that 10 proteins had epitopes with affinity for B and T lymphocytes, which were present in at least 26 different pathogens serotypes and were considered promiscuous. The multi-epitope protein, designated HC44, was designed based on these epitopes and specific linkers to improve stability and exposure to T lymphocytes. The recombinant HC44 protein was expressed in E.coli and Swiss-Webster mice were immunised by intraperitoneal injection. Immunisation with the multi-epitope HC44 protein resulted in the production of very high levels of IgG with title superior to 1/1.200.000. However, subtype IgG was highly unbalanced toward IgG1 and no protection was afforded after challenge with S.pneumoniae in a sepsis model. Thus, our strategy has been effective in constructing a highly antigenic protein but novel immunisation strategies should be investigated to reorient the immune system toward a protective response.

Visceral leishmaniasis: a practical strategy for quantitative molecular diagnosis in naturally infected dogs.

The diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) has been a problem for public health services due to the variety of clinical signs similar to other diseases and low sensitivity and specificity of available tests. In this sense, our main objective was to develop a simple, rapid, and accurate quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) diagnosis for CVL. Thus, low-invasive samples from bone marrow (BM), popliteal lymph nodes (PLN), and conjunctival swabs (CS) were selected from negative and VL-positive dogs, using as gold standard, immunological and parasitological tests performed with different tissues. Oligonucleotides for Leishmania infantum kDNA were designed and the limit of quantification and amplification efficiency of the qPCR were determined using tissue-specific standards produced with DNA from those different tissues, mixed with DNA from a known amount of L. infantum promastigotes. Endogenous control was used to validate a comparative Ct method, and tissue parasite concentrations were estimated by comparison with tissue-specific reference standard samples. The overall analysis of the qPCR data suggests the following ranking for tissue choice: PLN > BM > CS. Finally, we have concluded that this molecular approach simplifies and accelerates the quantitative diagnostic process because it is easy to perform, requiring no DNA dosing or standard curve application, and it shows good diagnostic parameters, especially when using popliteal lymph node samples.

The effect of benznidazole dose among the efficacy outcome in the murine animal model. A quantitative integration of the literature.

Despite more than 100 years since it was firstly described Chagas disease, only two drugs are available to treat Chagas disease: Nifurtimox launched by Bayer in 1965 and benznidazole launched by Roche in 1971. Drug discovery initiatives have been looking for new compounds as an alternative to these old drugs. Although new platforms have been used with the latest technologies, a critical step on that process still relies on the in vivo model. Unfortunately, to date, available animal models have limited predictive value and there is no standardization. With the aim to better understand the role of benznidazole, the current standard of care of Chagas disease, we performed this review. We intend to analyze the influence of the experimental design of the most used animal model, the murine model, in the assessment of the efficacy endpoint.

Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Acari: Macronyssidae) parasitism among poultry farm workers in Minas Gerais state, Brazil / Parasitismo de Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Acari: Macronyssidae) em trabalhadores de avicultura no Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Ornithonyssus sylviarum is a hematophagous mite present in wild, domestic, and synanthropic birds. However, this mite can affect several vertebrate hosts, including humans, leading to dermatitis, pruritus, allergic reactions, and papular skin lesions. This study evaluated the epidemiological characteristics of O. sylviarum attacks on poultry workers, including data on laying hens, infrastructure and management of hen houses, and reports of attacks by hematophagous mites. In addition, a case of mite attack on a farm worker on a laying farm in the Midwest region in Minas Gerais is presented. It was found that 60.7% farm workers reported attacks by hematophagous mites. Correspondence analysis showed an association between reports of mite attacks in humans with (1) presence of O. sylviarum in the hen house, (2) manual removal of manure by employees, and (3) history of acaricide use. The specimens collected from the location were confirmatively identified as O. sylviarum. O. sylviarum attacks ave not been reported when manure was removed in a shorter time interval and did not use acaricide in the sheds when the removal was done by manure conveyor belt. Parasitism by O. sylviarum should be considered a relevant occupational hazard affecting employees working in direct contact with commercial egg-laying hens in Minas Gerais. We emphasized the need to monitor hen infestations by this mite to improve the development of mite control strategies.

RESUMO: Ornithonyssus sylviarum é um ácaro hematófago de aves silvestres, domésticas e sinantrópicas. No entanto, este ácaro pode afetar vários hospedeiros vertebrados, incluindo humanos, levando a dermatites, prurido, reações alérgicas e lesões cutâneas papulosas. O presente estudo avaliou os aspectos epidemiológicos do ataque de O. sylviarum em trabalhadores de granjas avícolas e descreveu um relato de caso em uma granja de postura. Este estudo utilizou um banco de dados secundário com informações sobre as poedeiras, infraestrutura e manejo dos galinheiros e relatos de ataques por ácaros hematófagos. Foi apresentado um caso de ataque de ácaro a um trabalhador rural no Centro-Oeste em Minas Gerais. Houve uma frequência de 60,7% de trabalhadores que relataram ter sido atacados por ácaros hematófagos em fazendas. A análise de correspondência mostrou uma associação entre relatos de ataques de ácaros em humanos com (1) presença de O. sylviarum na fazenda, (2) remoção manual de esterco por funcionários da fazenda e (3) histórico de uso de acaricidas. Os espécimes coletados do local foram identificados como O. sylviarum. Não há ataques de O. sylviarum, quando a remoçãodo esterco é feita em menor intervalo de tempo, e não se utiliza acaricida nos galpões quando a remoção é feita por esteira transportadora de esterco. Conclui-se que o parasitismo por O. Sylviarum deve ser considerado como um risco ocupacional relevante, que afeta trabalhadores que trabalham diretamente com poedeiras comerciais em Minas Gerais. Ressaltamos a necessidade de monitorar as infestações de aves por esse ácaro, a fim de melhorar o desenvolvimento de estratégias de controle.

Epidemiological determinants of Chrysomya (Diptera: calliphoridae) infestation in layer farms of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Determinantes epidemiológicos da infestação por Chrysomya (Diptera: Calliphoridae) em granjas avícolas de postura de Minas Gerais, Brasil

Aspects related to the epidemiology of Diptera belonging to genus Chrysomya were studied in order to determine predisposing factors for their occurrence in commercial laying hens farms from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, analytical and sectional survey was conducted to verify the main epidemiological determinants of infestations by Chrysomya spp. Forty-three farms were visited in 2012 and these 13 (30,23%) were infested by Chrysomya putoria, 4 (9,30%) by Chrysomya megacephala and 2 (4,65%) by Chrysomya albiceps and in 2 farms (4,65%) was not possible to identify the species of Chrysomya. The epidemiological determinants for the occurrence of infestations by Chrysomya spp. were investigated using multiple logistic regression models. Housing clustering type and its conditions were important factors involved in epidemiology of these species (OR=5.05, 95% CI = 2.66 to 9.58, p = 0.000). It was also observed that the increase of the humidity of manure leads to increase chances of infestations (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.36 to 2.40, p = 0.000). The presence of the beetle "lesser mealworm" (Alphitobiusdiaperinus) (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.067 to 0.36, p = 0.000) was characterized as a protective factor against infestations, probably due to predation behavior of the beetle. Some regions of the state were characterized as lower risk areas for Chrysomya spp. infestation as compared to other regions. Management measures, such as constant monitoring of water leaks on manure, adequate composting of dead poultry and periodic removal of manure could assist in decreasing the presence of Chrysomya spp. inside the laying houses.

Aspectos relacionados à epidemiologia das infestações por dípteros do gênero Chrysomyaforam estudados com o objetivo de determinar os fatores predisponentes para sua ocorrência em granjas comerciais de postura do estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, analítico e seccional para verificar os principais determinantes epidemiológicos das infestações por Chrysomya spp. Foram visitadas 43 granjas avícolas em 2012 e dessas 13 (30,23%) apresentaram infestação por Chrysomya putoria, 4 (9,30%) por Chrysomya megacephala, 2 (4,65%) por Chrysomya albiceps e em 2 granjas (4,65%) não foi possível identificar as espécies de Chrysomya. A verificação dos determinantes epidemiológicos foi realizada utilizando modelos de regressão logística múltipla. Diferenças entre os núcleos das granjas avícolas e que não foram avaliadas neste estudo, apresentaram-se importantes na epidemiologia destas moscas (OR=5.05 95% IC = 2.66 a 9.58, p = 0.000). Observou-se também que o aumento na umidade do esterco dos aviários aumenta as chances de ocorrência de infestações (OR = 1.81, 95% IC = 1.36 a 2.40, p = 0.000). A presença de coleópteros popularmente conhecidos como "Cascudinhos", Alphitobiusdiaperinus (OR = 0.15, 95% IC = 0.067 a 0.36, p = 0.000), foi caracterizada como um fator protetor contra infestações, provavelmente devido ao comportamento predador deste coleóptero. Algumas regiões do estado apresentaram menores chances de ocorrência de infestações por Chrysomya spp. quando comparadas a outras regiões. Algumas medidas de manejo, como monitoramento constante de vazamentos de água no esterco, compostagem adequada de aves mortas e remoção periódica do esterco, poderiam auxiliar na diminuição da presença de Chrysomya spp. no interior dos galpões de postura.

Benznidazole, itraconazole and their combination in the treatment of acute experimental chagas disease in dogs.

Chagas disease (CD) is a serious public health problem in Latin America and its treatment remains neglected. Benznidazole (BZ), the only drug available in Brazil, presents serious side effects and low therapeutic efficacy, especially at the chronic phase. The last clinical trials demonstrated that the first generation of azole compounds were less successful than BZ in CD chemotherapy, which stimulated studies of these compounds associated to BZ and nifurtimox (NF). This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of BZ, itraconazole (ITZ) and their combination (BZ + ITZ) in dogs infected with the VL-10 T. cruzi strain in the acute phase of the disease. Twenty young mongrel dogs were inoculated with 2.0 × 103 blood trypomastigotes/kg and divided into four groups: treated with BZ, ITZ and BZ + ITZ for 60 days, and control group (INT). The parasitemia of the BZ + ITZ and BZ groups were similar and showed significant reduction compared to the INT group. The group treated with ITZ also showed significant parasitemia reduction compared to the INT group. The global analysis of hemoculture (HC), blood PCR, conventional serology (CS-ELISA), heart qPCR and histopathology techniques, used in the post-treatment evaluation, revealed that BZ + ITZ combination lead to a more reduction of parasitemia during the acute phase and heart qPCR positivity, less cardiac damage (inflammation and fibrosis in the left ventricle) and total survival. According to the classical cure criteria one animal treated with BZ + ITZ can be considered cured in its final evaluation and two other dogs, one of this group and one treated with ITZ were in process of cure. At least for BZ-resistant T. cruzi strains such as VL-10, BZ + ITZ was not effective to induce parasitological cure or a profound and sustained reduction of the parasite burden in blood and infected organs.

Epidemiological characterization and risk evaluation associated with the presence of Phthirapterain poultry farms from Minas Gerais, Brazil

Phthirapteraare lice highly adapted to living as permanent and obligatory ectoparasites of birds and mammals. High infestations by biting lice contribute to the low productivity, loss quality of the eggs, besides weight decrease of chickens. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate and to characterize the risks involved with the presence of biting lice in laying chicken from Minas Gerais, Brazil, throught a Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). A secondary database with information regarding 402 chicken houses from 42 properties of laying hens from the same region was used and adapted for this study. The variables that composed the correspondence model were selected through Chi-square tests (p ≤ 0.05). A risk index was designed to relate the presence of biting lice out of variables such as risk factors related to the presence of these ectoparasites. The MCA graphic designed to conduct the epidemiological characterization of the presence of biting lice presented a Chi-square accumulated value of 53.59%. There was an association between the risk index and the synanthropic birds, subsistence hens, presence of lice and other ectoparasites in shelters and ectoparasites control. These results provide knowledge about the Phthirapteraepidemiology. Besides that, this information may contribute to the decision-making process in order to reduce the risk of possible infestations in poultry farms and the negative effects of the infestations.

Benznidazole, itraconazole and their combination in the treatment of acute experimental Chagas disease in dogs.

Chagas disease (CD) is a serious public health problem in Latin America and its treatment remains neglected. Benznidazole (BZ) available in Brazil, presents serious side effects and low therapeutic efficacy at chronic phase. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of BZ, itraconazole (ITZ) and BZ + ITZ in dogs infected with VL-10 T. cruzi strain in the acute phase (Ethic protocol number 2013/28). Twenty young mongrel dogs were inoculated with 2.0 × 103 blood trypomastigotes/kg and divided into four groups: treated with BZ, ITZ and BZ + ITZ for 60 days, and control group (INT-infected not treated). The parasitemia of the BZ + ITZ and BZ groups were similar and showed significant reduction compared to the INT group. The ITZ group also showed significant parasitemia reduction compared to the INT group. For cure control the global analysis of hemoculture (HC), blood PCR, conventional serology (CS-ELISA), heart qPCR and histopathology revealed that BZ + ITZ lead to more reduction of parasitemia during the acute phase and heart qPCR positivity, less cardiac damage and total survival than BZ or ITZ. Moreover, two other dogs, one treated with ITZ and other treated with BZ + ITZ, were always negative in all parasitological tests what indicates parasitological cure or that these dogs are in process of cure. •BZ + ITZ lead to more reduction of parasitemia, total survival, less heart qPCR positivity and cardiac damage.•According to the classic cure criterion cure was observed only in one dog submitted to BZ + ITZ treatment.•Two dogs, one treated with ITZ and other treated with BZ + ITZ were always parasitologically negative.

Synanthropic diptera affecting layer poultry farms: a review / Dípteros sinantrópicos de importância para a avicultura de postura: uma revisão

The poultry farm of posture is an economic activity of great relevance to Brazil. Health aspects of flocks of laying chickens, such as the occurrence of infestations by parasites and poultry pests, influence significantly the productivity indicators. In this context, the control of synanthropic diptera is one of the challenges of the poultry farmers and professionals of this area. In Brazil, the control of flies in poultry environments is based mainly on the use of pesticides, while other alternatives are less frequent. Among the flies' species most regularly found in poultry farms are the Musca domestica, Chrysomya spp., Fannia spp., and others. This review aims at compiling the literature on the occurrence, impact on poultry systems, biology, epidemiology and control of the species of synanthropic flies considered important for the Brazilian poultry industry.(AU)

A avicultura de postura é uma atividade econômica de grande relevância para o Brasil. Aspectos sanitários dos plantéis de galinhas poedeiras, tais como infestações por parasitos e pragas avícolas, influenciam significativamente os indicadores de produtividade desse setor. Nesse contexto, o controle de dípteros sinantrópicos constitui um dos desafios de avicultores e profissionais da área. No Brasil, o controle de moscas em ambientes avícolas é baseado, sobretudo, no uso de pesticidas, ao passo que o uso de outras alternativas é menos recorrente. Entre as espécies de moscas mais frequentes em granjas avícolas de postura, destacam-se Musca domestica, Chrysomya spp., Fannia spp., entre outras. O objetivo desta revisão é realizar a compilação da literatura existente sobre a ocorrência, o impacto nos sistemas avícolas, a biologia, a epidemiologia e o controle das espécies de dípteros sinantrópicos consideradas importantes para a avicultura de postura brasileira.(AU)

Epidemiological characterization and risk evaluation associated with the presence of Megninia spp. in posture farms / Caracterização epidemiológica e avaliação de risco associados à presença de Megninia spp. em granjas de postura

ABSTRACT: This study was accomplished with the aim to evaluate and to characterize the risks for the presence of Megninia spp. in poultry farms from Minas Gerais, using for that Correspondence Analysis (CA). A secondary database was used and adapted for this study, with information from 402 chicken houses of 42 laying hens commercial properties. Variables used to compose the correspondence model were selected through tests of Qui-square being considered the significant result of P≤0,05. A risk index was built to the presence of Megninia spp. starting from variables considered as risk factors for the presence of those ectoparasites. The CA graph produced for the epidemiological characterization of the presence of Megninia spp. presented an accumulated qui-square value of 58,55%. There was an association of the risk index with the age ranges of the poultry, among the presence Megninia spp. and the use of mineral oil and acaricide in the ration and; finally, an association between the ruddy ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti) presence and the absence of mites of the Megninia genus. The results supply knowledge on the epidemiology of Megninia spp. In addition, these information can contribute in the decision, reducing the risks of possible infestations in poultry farms and the negative effects of that parasitism.

RESUMO: Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar e caracterizar os riscos para a presença de Megninia spp. em galpões de granjas de postura de Minas Gerais, utilizando para isso Análise de Correspondência (AC). Foi utilizado um banco de dados secundário e adaptado para este estudo, com informações de 402 galpões de 42 propriedades comerciais de galinhas poedeiras. As variáveis utilizadas para compor o modelo de correspondência foram selecionadas através de testes de Qui-quadrado (P≤0,05). Foi construído um índice de risco para a presença de Megninia spp. a partir de variáveis consideradas como fatores de risco para a presença desses ectoparasitos. O gráfico da AC produzido para a caracterização epidemiológica da presença de Megninia spp. apresentou um valor de qui-quadrado acumulado de 58,55%. Observa-se que houve uma associação do índice de risco com a faixa de idades das aves, entre a presença Megninia spp. e a utilização de óleo mineral e de acaricida na ração e, por último, uma associação entre a presença de rolinhas (Columbina talpacoti) e a ausência de ácaros do gênero Megninia. Estes resultados fornecem conhecimento sobre a epidemiologia de Megninia spp. Além disso, estas informações poderão contribuir na tomada de decisão diminuindo os riscos de possíveis infestações nos plantéis e dos efeitos negativos decorrentes por esse parasitismo.

Epidemiology of Megninia spp. in laying flocks from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Aspects related to the epidemiology of Megninia ginglymura were studied, in order to determine predisposing factors for the occurrence in layer chicken houses of commercial farms in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, cross-sectional, analytical survey was conducted for identifying major risks or protection factors for infestations. Four hundred thirty-one houses located in forty-three farms were visited in 2012. Regarding the farms, 17 (39.53%) had chickens infested by M. ginglymura and 1 (2.32%) presented Megninia cubitalis. The epidemiological aspects of the occurrence of M. ginglymura were investigated using multiple logistic regression models. The chicken house organization was an important protection factor involved in the occurrence of M. ginglymura (odds ratio [OR] = 0.85). The presence of subsistence breedings of poultry within the premises or at the proximity of a farm was characterized as a risk factor for the occurrence of infestations (OR = 3.92). The use of mineral oil (OR = 0.16) was considered protective against new infestations. Some regions of the state were characterized by a higher risk for mite infestation than others.

Epidemiology of Megninia spp. in laying flocks from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Epidemiologia de Megninia spp. em estabelecimentos de postura no Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil

Aspects related to the epidemiology of Megninia ginglymura were studied, in order to determine predisposing factors for the ocurrence in layer chicken houses of commercial farms in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, cross-sectional, analytical survey was conducted for identifying major risks or protection factors for infestations. Four hundred thirty-one houses located in forty-three farms were visited in 2012. Regarding the farms, 17 (39.53%) had chickens infested by M. ginglymura and 1 (2.32%) presented Megninia cubitalis. The epidemiological aspects of the occurrence of M. ginglymura were investigated using multiple logistic regression models. The chicken house organization was an important protection factor involved in the occurrence of M. ginglymura (odds ratio [OR] = 0.85). The presence of subsistence breedings of poultry within the premises or at the proximity of a farm was characterized as a risk factor for the occurrence of infestations (OR = 3.92). The use of mineral oil (OR = 0.16) was considered protective against new infestations. Some regions of the state were characterized by a higher risk for mite infestation than others.

Aspectos relacionados à epidemiologia de infestações pelo ácaro Megninia ginglymura foram estudados com o objetivo de determinar os principais fatores para a ocorrência desse ectoparasito em galinhas poedeiras de granjas comerciais no Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Um estudo observacional, analítico e seccional foi realizado para verificar os principais fatores de risco ou proteção para as infestações. Quatrocentos e trinta e um galpões distribuídos em quarenta e três granjas foram visitados, no ano de 2012. Em relação às granjas, 17 (39,53%) possuíam aves infestadas por M. ginglymura e uma (2,32%) apresentou galinhas infestadas por Megninia cubitalis. Os aspectos epidemiológicos para a ocorrência de M. ginglymura foram investigados, utilizando-se modelos de regressão logística múltipla. A organização dos galpões nas granjas foi verificada como um importante fator de proteção envolvido na epidemiologia dessa espécie (Razão de Chances=0,85). A presença de criações de galinhas de subsistência dentro das instalações das granjas ou nas proximidades (Razão de Chances =3,92) foi caracterizada como um fator de risco para a ocorrência de infestações. O uso de óleo mineral foi considerado um fator de proteção contra infestações por M. ginglymura. Algumas regiões do Estado de Minas Gerais foram caracterizadas como de maior risco do que outras para infestações por esse ácaro.

Análise de diferentes métodos de avaliação do estado nutricional de pacientes em hemodiálise / Análisis de diferentes métodos de evaluación del estado nutricional en pacientes en hemodiálisis / Analysis of different methods for the assessment of nutritional status of patients in hemodialysis

Introdução: O paciente em diálise deve ser avaliado nutricionalmente e monitorado periodicamente desde o início do tratamento dialítico, possibilitando melhores propostas de intervenções e adequações dietéticas eficazes. Objetivo: Comparar estado nutricional de pacientes com Doença Renal Crônica em hemodiálise, classificados entre desnutridos e não desnutridos, por diferentes parâmetros clínicos, antropométricos, laboratoriais e verificar o nível de concordância dessas formas avaliativas. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado em 2010, com 90 pacientes de uma clínica de diálise em Belo Horizonte/MG. Foram coletados dados pessoais, socioeconômicos, nutricionais, clínicos, bioquímicos e antropométricos. Resultados e Discussão: Houve variação de 12,2% a 86,7% de indivíduos desnutridos conforme diferentes parâmetros avaliativos. Nas análises antropométricas, homens apresentaram pregas cutâneas menores que mulheres. Quanto à circunferência muscular do braço, quase 40% apresentaram classificação de desnutrição, sendo aproximadamente 30% destes do sexo masculino. Os valores médios Índice de Massa Corporal encontraram-se dentro da classificação de normalidade. Quanto à ingestão calórica e ingestão protéica, as proporções de pacientes com ingestão inferior ao desejado foram de 86,7% e 57,8% respectivamente. A média dos valores de albumina foi de 3,9g/dL e a classificação de desnutrição variou entre 25,6% e 50% dependendo da referência utilizada. Conclusões: A grande variação de classificação dos pacientes como desnutridos obtida, sugere a necessidade de padronização de rotinas, observação e acompanhamento cautelosos das referências e a necessidade de comitês de avaliação para determinação de novos pontos de corte para melhor classificação nutricional desta população.

Introducción: El paciente en diálisis debe ser evaluado por la nutrición y mantener seguimiento regular desde el inicio del tratamiento para así tener las mejores respuestas de intervenciones y dieta. Objetivo: Comparar la concordancia de la clasificación del estado nutricional de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica en hemodiálisis por medio de diferentes evaluaciones clínicas, antropométricas y parámetros bioquímicos. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio transversal con 90 pacientes de una clínica de diálisis, en la ciudad de Belo Horizonte, Brasil en 2010. Se recogieron los datos socioeconómicos, nutricionales, clínicos, bioquímicos y antropométricos. Resultados y Discusión: La frecuencia de desnutrición fue de 12,2% hasta 86,7% de acuerdo con diferentes parámetros de evaluación. En los análisis antropométricos, los hombres presentaran pliegues cutáneos más pequeños que las mujeres. Casi 40% de los pacientes tenían la clasificación de la desnutrición en los análisis de la circunferencia muscular del brazo, siendo aproximadamente 30% de hombres. Los valores promedios de índice de masa corporal se encontraban en el rango adecuado. Considerando la ingesta de energía y proteínas, 86,7% y 57,8% fueran clasificados como desnutridos, respectivamente. El valor promedio de albúmina fue 3,9 g / dl y la frecuencia de desnutrición varió 35,6% y 50%, según la referencia.Conclusiones: La alta frecuencia de pacientes con desnutrición de acuerdo con diferentes clasificaciones sugiere la necesidad de estandarización de indicadores, la observación cuidadosa y el seguimiento de las referencias utilizadas y también la necesidad de que los comités de evaluación en determinar nuevos puntos de corte para la mejor clasificación nutricional de esta población.

Introduction: The patient undergoing dialysis must be nutritionally evaluated and keep in a regular monitoring since the start of dialytic procedures, thus providing the best proposals for effective interventions and diet. Objective: To compare the nutritional status of patients with chronic kidney disease with hemodialysis, considered malnourished and non-malnourished patients, through different clinical, anthropometric, biochemical parameters and verify the kappa level (concordance) of these assessment forms. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study done with 90 patients in a dialysis clinic, in the city of Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais in 2010. Personal, socioeconomic, nutritional, and clinical, biochemical and anthropometric data were collected. Results and Discussion: The results ranged from 12.2% up to 86.7% of malnourished individuals according to different evaluation parameters. In the anthropometrical analyzes, men had smaller skinfolds than women. Almost 40% of the patients had classification of malnutrition in the analyses of arm muscle circumference, being approximately 30% of them males individuals. The mean values of Body Mass Index were in the adequate range. The energy and protein intake were classified as malnourished were 86.7% and 57.8% respectively. The mean value of albumin was 3.9g/dL the frequency of malnourished ranged 35.6% and 50% according the reference. Conclusions: The large range of malnourished patients according to different classifications suggests the need standardization of routines, careful observation and monitoring of used references and the need for evaluation committees to determine new cutoff points for best nutritional classification of this population.

Fatores de risco para a ocorrência de acidentes em laboratórios de ensino e pesquisa em uma universidade brasileira (2012) / Risk factors for the occurrence of accidents in teaching and research laboratories in a brazilian university (2012) / Factores de riesgo para la incidencia de accidentes en laboratorios de investigación y enseñanza de una universidad brasileña (2012)

O estudo teve o objetivo de analisar os principais fatores associados à ocorrência de acidentes envolvendo agentes biológicos, materiaisperfurocortantes ou compostos químicos em laboratórios de ensino e pesquisa de uma universidade brasileira. Trata-se de estudo transversale analítico, com aplicação de questionário a 271 indivíduos que desenvolviam atividades laboratoriais em três unidades acadêmicas daUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais em 2012. A triagem de características potencialmente associadas à ocorrência de acidentes foi realizadapor testes estatísticos univariados. A verificação dos principais fatores de risco ou proteção para a ocorrência de acidentes foi feita pormodelos de análise multivariada (p≤0,05). Constatou-se que 70,5 a 97,3% dos indivíduos estavam expostos aos riscos estudados, com 48,0%dos entrevistados acidentados na Escola de Veterinária, 34,4% na Faculdade de Odontologia e 23,0% na Faculdade de Medicina. Os principaisfatores relacionaram-se a práticas tais como a função dos indivíduos, quantidade de horas trabalhadas por dia, número de anos trabalhadosem laboratório, trabalho em condições de pressão psicológica e estresse, fornecimento de orientações sobre os procedimentos laboratoriais,conhecimento do fluxo operacional caso ocorram acidentes e conhecimento sobre os protocolos para notificação desses agravos. Concluiuseque a ocorrência de acidentes está associada às condutas adotadas no desenvolvimento de atividades laboratoriais e, secundariamente, àinfluência de características estruturais.

This study aimed to analyze the main factors associated with the occurrence of accidents involving biological, chemical, or perforating-cuttingagents in laboratories at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil. A cross-sectional and analytical study wasconducted applying a questionnaire to 271 lab employees at three academic units of the university in 2012. Screening procedures to determinesome characteristics potentially associated with the occurrence of accidents was performed by univariate statistical tests. The verification of mainrisks or protective factors for the occurrence of accidents was performed by means of the fit of multivariate models (p≤0.05). It was verified that arange of 70.5% to 97.3% people were exposed to risk factors, and 48.0% of the respondents were accident victims in the School of Veterinary Sciences,34.4% were injured in the Dental School, and 23.0% were injured in the Medical School. Factors, such as the individuals’ job, hours worked per day,years worked in the lab, working under pressure and stress conditions, the providing of instructions regarding laboratory procedures, knowledgeabout the...

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los principales factores vinculados a la incidencia de accidentes con agentes biológicos, objetos punzocortanteso productos químicos en laboratorios de enseñanza e investigación de una universidad brasileña. Se realizó un estudio transversal y analítico con uncuestionario a 271 personas que trabajaban en los laboratorios de tres facultades de la Universidad Federal de Minas Gerais (2012). La detección decaracterísticas potencialmente relacionadas a la incidencia de accidentes fue realizada mediante la utilización de pruebas univariadas. Se efectuó laverificación de los principales factores de riesgo y de protección para la incidencia de accidentes por los modelos de análisis multivariados (p ≤ 0.05). Entre70,5% y 97,3% de las personas estuvieron expuestas a los riesgos estudiados. El 48,0% de los accidentados era de la Facultad de Veterinaria, el 34,4% de laFacultad de Odontología y el 23,0 % de la Facultad de Medicina. Se confirmo que los principales factores están relacionados con las prácticas: tales comola función de los individuos, la cantidad de horas de trabajo por día y de años trabajando en el laboratorio, trabajo en condiciones de presión psicológicay/o estrés, orientaciones sobre procedimientos, disponibilidad de orientaciones sobre procedimientos y operaciones en el laboratorio, conocimiento deprotocolos de notificación de accidentes. Se llegó a la conclusión que la incidencia de accidentes está relacionada con las conductas adoptadas en eldesarrollo de...

Epidemiologia de Lipeurus caponis (Phthiraptera: Philopteridae) (Nitzsch, 1818) em granjas avícolas comerciais de postura no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil / Epidemiology of Lipeurus caponis (Phthiraptera: Philopteridae) (Nitzsch, 1818) in commercial laying hen flocks from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Aspectos relacionados com a epidemiologia de Lipeurus caponis foram estudados com o objetivo de determinar os principais fatores de risco para a ocorrência deste ectoparasito em granjas avícolas de postura no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Quatrocentos e trinta e um galpões de granjas de postura comerciais foram visitados no ano de 2012 para a coleta de amostras de ectoparasitos. Também foi aplicado um questionário sobre características ambientais e de manejo utilizado nos galpões de criação das aves. L. caponis foi encontrado em quatro dos 431 galpões estudados (0,92%). Os principais determinantes epidemiológicos foram investigados utilizando-se testes de Qui-quadrado, testes exatos de Fisher e modelos multivariados de regressão de Poisson. O tipo de instalação obteve uma Razão de Prevalência igual a 51,56, o que sugere que aves criadas sobre o solo possuem maior risco de infestação por L. caponis do que aves mantidas em gaiolas. Também foi verificado que a linhagem genética das galinhas foi um fator de risco e, provavelmente, algumas linhagens são mais predispostas a infestações. Além disso, a presença de criações de subsistência de galinhas domésticas nas adjacências dos galpões avícolas aumentou consideravelmente o risco de ocorrência de infestações por L. caponis nas galinhas poedeiras de granjas comerciais no estado de Minas Gerais.

Aspects related to the epidemiology of Lipeurus caponis were studied in order to determine the main risk factors for the occurrence of this ectoparasite in commercial laying hen flocks in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, analytical and sectional study was conducted for verifying these factors. Four hundred thirty-one laying poultry flocks were visited in 2012 year to ectoparasite sampling collection and application of a questionnaire about environmental and management characteristics in chicken houses. L. caponis was found in four of the 431 studied chicken houses (0.92%). The main epidemiological determinants for the occurrence of L. caponis were investigated using Chi-square Test, Fisher's Exact Test and multivariate Poisson regression models. Type of facilities obtained an Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) equal to 51.56, suggesting that poultry bred on the ground have a higher risk of infestation by L. caponis than fowls kept in cages. Also it was observed that chicken's genetic lineage was a marginal risk factor (IRR=1.8) and probably some lineages are more predisposed to infestations. Moreover, the presence of subsistence breeding of domestic chickens around the chicken houses (IRR= 106.89) increases extensively the risk of occurrence of infestations by L. caponis in commercial laying hen flocks from the State of Minas Gerais.

Experiência multiprofissional na investigação de infecção por Toxocara spp em crianças atendidas pelo Sistema Único de Saúde / Experiência multiprofissional na investigação de infecção por Toxocara spp em crianças atendidas pelo Sistema Único de Saúde

A toxocaríase é uma doença causada geralmente pela ingestão acidental de ovos larvados de Toxocara canis e/ou Toxocara cati, acometendo principalmente crianças. Esses ovos larvados permanecem viáveis por longos períodos no ambiente. Objetivou-se detectar focos de Toxocara spp a partir da análise do local habitado por crianças diagnosticadas com a doença em 2012 e 2013 em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Os responsáveis pelos pacientes foram entrevistados e foram coletadas amostras de solo dos domicílios para pesquisa de ovos de Toxocara spp. pelo método de Faust. Também foi realizada entrevista com as pediatras responsáveispela notificação e tratamento na suspeição do diagnóstico de Larva Migrans Visceral (LMV). As famílias tinham características socioeconômicas semelhantes, viviam em lotes multifamiliares e em 100% dos casos havia contato com cães filhotes e adultos. Verificou-se presença de fezes caninas expostas em locais de risco, sem recolhimento diário, e as crianças diagnosticadas tinham contato diário com essas áreas, não eram orientadas quanto à higiene das mãos e alimentos crus eram lavados apenas com água. Havia ovos infectantes viáveis de Toxocara spp. em 100% das amostras coletadas. Mesmo sob tratamento, no período do estudo, não houve mudança nos fatores de risco ambientais, nem desverminação de algum cão após o diagnóstico nas crianças. Foram propostas atividades de educação em saúde sobre este tema, sob forma de cartilhas direcionadas para a população e para os profissionais de saúde. Este trabalho proporcionou aos participantes do PET-Saúde ampla visão sobre os desafios do trabalho multiprofissional no SUS na intervenção de uma importante zoonose.

Toxocariasis is a disease that mainly affects children and is generally caused by the accidental ingestion of Toxocara canis and/or Toxocara cati embryonated eggs. These embryonated eggs remain viable for long periods in the environment. This study aimed at detecting outbreaks of Toxocara spp by analyzing places inhabited by children who had been diagnosedwith the disease in 2012 and 2013, in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. The patients? guardians were interviewed, and soil samples were collected from their households to survey the presence of Toxocara spp. eggs through the method of Faust. The patients? pediatricians, who notified and treated the suspected cases with a diagnosis of (LMV), were also interviewed. All interviewed families had similar socio-economic characteristics, lived in multi-family lots, and had contact with puppies and adult dogs. The presence of exposed canine feces, which were not collected daily, was observed in places of risk; the diagnosed children had daily contact with these areas and were not oriented with regard to hand hygiene; in addition, raw food was washed with water only. Infective viable eggs of Toxocara spp. were detected in 100% of collected samples.Changes in environmental risk factors or dog deworming were not executed even after the diagnosed children were placed under treatment, during the study period. Health education activities on this topic were proposed with the use of booklets directed to the population and health professionals. This study provided ample insight to PET-Health participants into the challenges of multi-professional work in the SUS about intervention on an important zoonosis.

Gestão de resíduos com risco biológico e perfurocortantes: conhecimento de estudantes de graduação das áreas biológicas e da saúde da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais / Management of biologial and cutting waste hazards: knowledge of undergraduate students in biologial and health sciences courses at federal university of Minas Gerais / Manejo de residuos peligrosos biológico-infecciosos y de objetos punzocortantes: conocimiento de los estudiantes de grado de las áreas biológicas y de la salud de la Universidad Federal de Minas Gerais

O estudo objetivou avaliar o conhecimento dos estudantes dos ciclos básicos de graduação das áreas biológicas e da saúde, relativos ao gerenciamento de resíduos conforme a legislação brasileira. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo sobre o conhecimento das ações de gestão dos resíduos biológicos, infectantes, perfurocortantes. Foram aplicados questionários estruturados a estudantes fora das salas de aula, no Instituto de Ciências Biológicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, em 2008 e 2009. Os resultados foram discutidos com base na legislação de resíduos vigente no Brasil e em outros estudos similares. O estudo demonstrou que os alunos apresentam pouco conhecimento sobre o tema, adquirido informalmente, têm interesse sobre o assunto, reconhecendo não estarem preparados para lidar com resíduos com risco biológico e perfurocortante na graduação, o que demonstra a necessidade de aprimoramento do processo ensino-aprendizagem sobre o tema. Há concordância, entre os pesquisados, de que os resíduos biológicos e perfurocortantes representam um risco à saúde, embora estes não tenham informações suficientes sobre as legislações pertinentes ao assunto. As informações sobre o tema adquiridas pelos alunos apresentam-se visivelmente de forma fragmentada, sendo que as buscas sobre o assunto partiram de observações.

This study aimed to assess the knowledge of undergraduate students in biological and health sciences courses, regarding waste management according to Brazilian law. This was a descriptive study that treated the knowledge of management actions regarding biological and cutting waste hazards. Structured questionnaires were applied to students outside of the classroom in the Institute of Biological Sciences at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais in 2008 and 2009. The results were discussed based on current Brazilian law concerning waste as well as on findings from other similar studies. This study’s results show that students have insufficient and informally acquired knowledge on the issue. It seems that the students are interested in the issue, but they acknowledge that they are not prepared to handle biohazardous and cutting wastes, which shows the need to improve the teaching-learning process on the theme. Answers concerning the problem showed that students are in agreement that such materials can cause health hazards, although they do not have sufficient information on the current laws that deal with the issue. The information on the theme, acquired by the students, clearly appears in fragments, given that their search for information appears to have come only from observations.

El presente estudio buscó evaluar el conocimiento en gestión de residuos de los estudiantes de grado de los cursos básicos de biología y ciencias de la salud, en conformidad con la Legislación Brasileña. Se realizaron encuestas fuera del aula con los alumnos de la Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas de la Universidad Federal de Minas Gerais en 2008 y 2009. Los resultados se discutieron en base a la legislación de residuos vigente en Brasil y en otros trabajos similares. El estudio indicó poco conocimiento, adquirido de manera informal, de los alumnos, interés en el asunto y reconocimiento de no estar preparados para manejar dichos residuos. Tales resultados señalaron la necesidad de mejorar el proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje del tema. Los investigadores reconocieron que los residuos biológicos y punzocortantes representaban un riesgo a la salud y que no conocían suficientemente la legislación pertinente al tema. Los alumnos tenían información fragmentada y el interés en obtener más conocimiento partió de observaciones.

Mites affecting hen egg production: some considerations for Brazilian farms / Ácaros de importância para a avicultura de postura: algumas considerações aplicadas à realidade da indústria avícola brasileira

The poultry industry is characterized for its constant search for productivity and profitability, which are based on flock health status. Brazilian Commercial laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) have been impacted significantly by mite infestations. This review aims to compile the literature on the occurrence, economic losses, biology, epidemiology and control of mite species considered important for the Brazilian laying poultry industry. The national experience was compared with practices of other countries and a scarcity of studies on this subject in Brazil was evident. The poultry industry has prioritized the use of pesticides to control infestations with little regard for the adverse effects. In this context, the integrated control programs using several strategies simultaneously constitute the best alternative to mite control. Integrated control programs involve measures of chemical, physical and biological nature, as well as attention to cultural aspects. However, studies should be performed aiming at the development of new control methods, evaluating the adequacy of practices developed in other countries to the national reality.

A indústria avícola é caracterizada por sua constante busca por produtividade e lucratividade, que se relacionam diretamente ao status sanitário dos plantéis avícolas. No Brasil, as galinhas poedeiras (Gallus gallus domesticus) dos plantéis comerciais têm sido afetadas significativamente por infestações por ácaros. Esta revisão teve como objetivo a compilação da literatura existente sobre a ocorrência, perdas econômicas, biologia, epidemiologia e controle das espécies de ácaros consideradas importantes para a avicultura de postura brasileira. Nesse sentido, comparou-se a experiência nacional com a de outros países, observando-se escassez de estudos sobre o assunto no Brasil. Na indústria avícola brasileira, tem-se priorizado o uso de pesticidas para o controle das infestações, com pouca atenção para os efeitos negativos advindos. Nesse contexto, os programas de controle integrado, utilizando diversas estratégias simultaneamente, constituem uma alternativa adequada para o controle dos ácaros. Os programas de controle integrado envolvem medidas de natureza química, física e biológica, bem como a atenção a aspectos culturais. Entretanto, estudos adicionais devem ser realizados, visando ao desenvolvimento de novos métodos de controle e a adequação de práticas desenvolvidas em outros países para a realidade nacional.

Nutritional and epidemiological aspects of patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis from Brazil, 2010.

INTRODUCTION: The Nutrition Committee of the Brazilian Society of Nephrology (SBN) held in 2010 the first Brazilian Nutrition Census in hemodialysis patients. Multicenter data contribute to clinical development and nutritional intervention. OBJECTIVE: To describe epidemiological and nutritional aspects of hemodialysis patients. METHOD: Cross-sectional study in 36 dialysis clinics and 2,622 randomly selected participants. Socio-demographical, clinical, biochemical and anthropometric records were collected. RESULTS: 60.45% of the patients lived in the Brazilian Southeast. 13.53% came from Northeast region, while 12.81% from South, 10.33% from Midwest and 2.86% from North regions. Approximately 58% were male and 63.1% were below 60 years old. 58.5% of patients were married or in cohabitation. Around 80% of them depended on the government Unified Health System. Smoking showed a difference between gender and age. Presumptive etiologies were Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (26.4%), Diabetic Nephropathy (24.6%), unknown/undiagnosed causes (19.9%), Glomerulopathies (13.6%) and others (11.2%). Both Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus affect approximately 30% of patients, especially over 60 years. Body Mass Index did not differ between genders, although it differed between age groups and when used different evaluation criteria. Men and women average waist circumference were respectively 90.5 and 88.0 cm. Lipid profile did not differ between age groups, but it did between genders. Albumin values were lower in women and in patients older than 60 years. CONCLUSION: This study characterized Brazilian hemodialysis patients in 2010, and may support further studies to monitor nutrition and epidemiological transitions of the population.