Effects of peptides and probiotics supplementation via diet on blood parameters and growth performance of Piaractus brachypomus during the growth-out phase.

Background: There is no evidence of peptides-probiotics symbiosis as supplements in aquafeeds. Aim: To evaluate the effect of peptides and probiotics supplementation via diet on blood parameters and growth performance of juvenile Piaractus brachypomus, an Amazonian fish, during the growth-out phase. Methods: 120 juvenile P. brachypomus (242.77 g) were placed into twelve 200-l tanks (10 fish/tank), housed in an indoor open system with constant water renovation (flow rate:1.50 l/minute). The experiment used a completely randomized design with a 4 × 5 factorial arrangement [4 doses of supplementation (CD: commercial diet; PepD: CD+1.50% of peptides per CD weight; ProD: CD+40.00 ml of activated probiotics per kg of diet (Lactobacillus spp., Rhodopseudomonas spp., Saccharomycetes spp.); PepProD: CD+Pep+Pro); 5 sampling times (zero, second, fourth, sixth, and eighth week); n = 3]. Fish were fed twice a day at a feeding rate of 1% of body weight. At each sampling time, blood was collected and fish were measured for growth performance analysis. Data were analyzed by using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). Results: The values of hematocrit (18.31%), leukocytes (1,216.67 mm3), neutrophils (81.27%), lymphocytes (18.73%), albumin (1.08 g/dl), relative growth rate (1.002%/day), and the Fulton allometric condition factor (2.03) remained constant throughout the experiment (p > 0.05). Plasma glucose decreased for all fish in the second week (59.56 mg/dl); then, that level increased in fish fed with the CD (89.00 mg/dl), while fish fed with PepD, ProD, and PepProD showed constant values (57.22 mg/dl). The plasma protein levels were constant in fish fed with the PepD and PepProD, (p > 0.05), while fish fed with the CD and ProD showed non-constant and higher values. At the end of the trial, fish fed with the PepProD showed the highest weight gain and the lowest feed conversion rate (39.66 g; 0.97). Conclusion: It is possible to maintain the stability of plasma glucose and plasma protein by supplementing diets with peptides, but the peptides-probiotics symbiosis administrated via diet contributes to maintaining the stability of plasma glucose and plasma protein and to improve the growth performance of juvenile P. brachypomus during the growth-out phase.

Integrating plasma proteome with genome reveals novel protein biomarkers in colorectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Biomarkers for colorectal cancer (CRC) can complement population screening methods, but so far, few plasma proteins have been identified as biomarkers for CRC. This study aims to identify potential protein biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CRC within the proteome range. METHODS: We extracted summary-level data of circulating protein from 7 published genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of plasma proteome for Mendelian randomization (MR), summary-data-based MR (SMR), and co-localization analyses to screen and validate proteins with causal effects in CRC. In addition, we further conducted druggability evaluation, prognosis analysis at the transcriptional level, and enrichment expression at the single-cell level, highlighting the important role of these plasma protein biomarkers in CRC. RESULTS: We identified 117 plasma protein biomarkers associated with CRC risk, with 9 proteins showing stronger genetic correlations in Bayesian co-localization (PP.H4 > 0.70). Further, we found 26 protein-coding genes already used in targeted drug development and may potentially become therapeutic targets for CRC. In prognosis analysis, the encoding genes of plasma proteins exhibited consistent effects with MR analysis and can serve as prognostic biomarkers for CRC. Additionally, we also found that the differentially expressed proteins are mainly expressed in fibroblasts, endothelial cells, macrophages, and T cells. CONCLUSION: Our study has identified plasma protein biomarkers associated with CRC risk, which may complement population screening methods for CRC and achieve more precise treatment for patients.

C1q and HBHA-specific IL-13 levels as surrogate plasma biomarkers for monitoring tuberculosis treatment efficacy: a cross-sectional cohort study in Paraguay.

Introduction: New diagnostic tools are needed to rapidly assess the efficacy of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate several immune biomarkers in an observational and cross-sectional cohort study conducted in Paraguay. Methods: Thirty-two patients with clinically and microbiologically confirmed PTB were evaluated before starting treatment (T0), after 2 months of treatment (T1) and at the end of treatment (T2). At each timepoint plasma levels of IFN-y, 17 pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and complement factors C1q, C3 and C4 were assessed in unstimulated and Mtb-specific stimulated whole blood samples using QuantiFERON-TB gold plus and recombinant Mycobacterium smegmatis heparin binding hemagglutinin (rmsHBHA) as stimulation antigen. Complete blood counts and liver enzyme assays were also evaluated and correlated with biomarker levels in plasma. Results: In unstimulated plasma, C1q (P<0.001), C4 (P<0.001), hemoglobin (P<0.001), lymphocyte proportion (P<0.001) and absolute white blood cell count (P=0.01) were significantly higher in PTB patients at baseline than in cured patients. C1q and C4 levels were found to be related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis load in sputum. Finally, a combinatorial analysis identified a plasma host signature comprising the detection of C1q and IL-13 levels in response to rmsHBHA as a tool differentiating PTB patients from cured TB profiles, with an AUC of 0.92 (sensitivity 94% and specificity 79%). Conclusion: This observational study provides new insights on host immune responses throughout anti-TB treatment and emphasizes the role of host C1q and HBHA-specific IL-13 response as surrogate plasma biomarkers for monitoring TB treatment efficacy.

Effect of subchorionic hematoma on first-trimester maternal serum free β-hCG and PAPP-A levels

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of the presence of subchorionic hematoma (SH) in early pregnancies with threatened miscarriage (TM) on levels of first-trimester maternal serum markers, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), and free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) levels. Methods The data of TM cases with SH in the first trimester between 2015 and 2021 were evaluated retrospectively. The data of age and gestational age-matched TM cases without SH were also assessed to constitute a control group. Demographic characteristics, obstetric histories, ultrasonographic findings, and free β-hCG and PAPP-A levels of the groups were compared. Results There were 119 cases in the study group and 153 cases in the control group. The median vertical and longitudinal lengths of the SH were 31 mm and 16 mm. The median age of both groups was similar (p=0.422). The MoM value of PAPP-A was 0.088 (.93) in the study group and 0.9 (0.63) in the control group (p=0.519). Similarly, the MoM value of free β-hCG was 1.04 (0.78) in the study group and 0.99 (0.86) in the control group (p=0.66). No significant relationship was found in the multivariate analysis between free β-hCG MoM, PAPP-A MoM, age, gravida, and vertical and longitudinal lengths of the hematoma (p>0.05). Conclusion The level of PAPP-A and free β-hCG were not affected by the SH. Therefore, these markers can be used reliably in TM cases with SH for the first-trimester fetal aneuploidy screening test.

Higher PAPP-A Values in Pregnant Women Complicated with Preeclampsia Than with Gestational Hypertension.

The purpose of this study is to compare the levels of maternal serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A at the first trimester in pregnancies complicated by impaired placental diseases, such as preeclampsia (PE), intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR), and gestational hypertension (GH), with those in pregnancies without the development of any of these outcomes to expand the knowledge of how this protein behaves in the different impaired placental diseases. This current work is an observational study based on a prospective cohort. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A was measured in 422 patients who had completed maternal-perinatal outcomes. Comparisons of pregnancy characteristics and the biomarker between outcome groups (PE, IUGR, gestational hypertension, and not impaired placental outcomes) were analyzed. PAPP-A MoM in the IUGR (0.8 IQR: 0.6-0.9) and GH groups (0.5 IQR: 0.3-1.4) compared to the PE group (1.06 IQR: 0.66-1.52) was significantly lower (p < 0.005). Pregnant women who developed early-onset PE (1.11 IQR 1.08-1.18) presented significant differences with the IUGR group (0.83 IQR: 0.59-0.98; p = 0.002) and those who developed preterm-PE (1.19 IQR: 0.66-1.58; p = 0.045). The results demonstrate that the levels of PAPP-A at first trimester in the sample of women who developed PE, and specially term-PE, were higher than those in women who developed GH or IUGR. The GH group had the lowest PAPP-A values in this sample of pregnant women. Research in a population with a high prevalence of preeclampsia is still lacking and deserves more extended studies to define if these patients could have different rates of PAPP-A.

Castor bean cake for the control of parasites in pasture-finished sheep.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate castor bean cake as alternative input in the control of gastrointestinal parasites in sheep raised on irrigated pasture under continuous stocking. The treatments consisted of sheep supplemented with standard diet and pasture fertilized with urea; sheep supplemented with alternative diet and pasture fertilized with urea; sheep supplemented with standard diet and pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake; and sheep supplemented with alternative diet and pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake. A randomized complete block design (CBD) was used, with 16 replications (sheep), with repeated measures over time, the plots being the treatments, and the subplots the collection times. Infective nematode larvae in the pasture (L3.g DM-1), number of eggs per gram of feces (EPG), globular volume (GV), and total plasma protein (TPP) were evaluated. For adult gastrointestinal parasite counts, CBD was also used with six replications. Except for FAMACHA© grade, all variables had effect (P < 0.01) of the time factor. The average number of L3.g DM-1 and EPG were 126 and 841, respectively, with no effect (P > 0.05) of the treatment factor. The values observed for GV and TPP were higher than 25.9% and 6.4 g·dL-1, respectively, which were considered normal. As organic fertilizer, the fractionated application of in natura castor bean cake does not reduce the contamination of pastures by nematode larvae. The evaluated feeds improve the resilience of the sheep to infection by gastrointestinal parasites. The treatments using castor bean cake reduced the adult parasites present in the abomasum of sheep.

Use of Stevia and inulin in combination with bovine plasma proteins as sugar substitute for the development of a sugar-free and low-fat muffins formulation.

This study analyzes the effectivity of a freeze-dried additive formulated with inulin (I), Stevia (St), and ultrafiltered bovine plasma proteins (P) as a sugar substitute on the final properties of a sugar-free and low-fat muffins formulation. The following analysis were performed: shape factor, moisture loss, lamella thickness, final volume, aeration, pore size distribution and textural analysis. The addition of the binary combination 50%(P + St + I) + 50%(Sucralose) generated a synergistic effect: increasing the shape factor, final volume and aeration, and improving the pore size distribution and moisture loss. Given the success, the concentration of (P + St + I) was adjusted. A 12.5% concentration of (P + St + I) generated a hardness decrease during the studied period and did not exhibit statistical significant differences when compared to the control sample. Therefore this study demonstrated the effectiveness of the combination of Stevia, inulin, and bovine plasma proteins as sugar substitute.

Validación de la calculadora de la Fundación de Medicina Fetal para tamiz de preeclampsia adaptada a población mexicana / Validation of the Fetal Medicine Foundation calculator for pre-eclampsia screening test adapted to a Mexican population

Resumen OBJETIVO: Validar el rendimiento de la calculadora de la Fundación de Medicina Fetal 4.0 adaptada a población mexicana. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte efectuado en embarazos con feto único, según el modelo de riesgos en competencia para preeclampsia en un centro de medicina fetal de la Ciudad de México. El riesgo a priori se calculó de acuerdo con la historia clínica. La presión arterial media, el índice de pulsatilidad medio de la arteria uterina y la proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo se midieron a las 11 a 14 semanas de gestación con metodología estandarizada. El valor de cada marcador se transformó en múltiplos de la mediana adaptados a la población local. Se aplicaron la distribución normal multivariante y el teorema de Bayes para obtener las probabilidades posprueba individuales, que se utilizaron como clasificadores para el área bajo la curva de característica receptor-operador. RESULTADOS: La incidencia de preeclampsia fue del 5.0% (54/1078). El área bajo la curva de característica receptor-operador fue de 0.784 (0.712; 0.856) para preeclampsia a menos de 37 semanas y de 0.807 (0.762; 0.852) para preeclampsia global. CONCLUSIONES: La calculadora FMF 4.0 adaptada a población mexicana resultó válida. Si bien tuvo menor rendimiento al esperado para preeclampsia a menos de 37 semanas, el rendimiento para preeclampsia global fue satisfactorio. Se justifica desarrollar la calculadora local.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To validate the performance of the Fetal Medicine Foundation 4.0 calculator adapted to the Mexican population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cohort study performed in singleton pregnancies, according to the competing risk model for preeclampsia in a fetal medicine center in Mexico City. The a priori risk was calculated according to the clinical history. Mean arterial pressure, mean uterine artery pulsatility index and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A were measured at 11 to 14 weeks of gestation with standardized methodology. The value of each marker was transformed into multiples of the median adapted to the local population. Multivariate normal distribution and Bayes' theorem were applied to obtain individual posttest probabilities, which were used as classifiers for the area under the receiver-operator characteristic curve. RESULTS: The incidence of preeclampsia was 5.0% (54/1078). The area under the receiver-operator characteristic curve was 0.784 (0.712; 0.856) for preeclampsia at less than 37 weeks and 0.807 (0.762; 0.852) for global preeclampsia. CONCLUSIONS: The FMF 4.0 calculator adapted to Mexican population proved valid. Although it had lower performance than expected for preeclampsia at less than 37 weeks, the performance for global preeclampsia was satisfactory. The development of the local calculator is justified.

Predictive values of clinical parameters and biophysical and biochemical markers in the first trimester for the detection of small-for-gestational age fetuses.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the predictive values of maternal characteristics, biophysical parameters (mean arterial pressure [MAP] and Doppler uterine artery measurements), and biochemical parameters (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A [PAPP-A] and placental growth factor [PlGF]) alone and in association for small-for-gestational age (SGA) fetuses. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospective observational study that evaluated 615 pregnant women in the first trimester using ultrasonography. For all the women, information regarding clinical and obstetric histories, MAP, and uterine artery mean pulsatility index (UtA-PI), and blood samples for analysis of biochemical markers (PAPP-A and PlGF) were obtained. The patients were grouped according to birth weight as follows: group I (n=571), >10th percentile (control); group II (n=44), <10th percentile; and group III (n=34), <5th percentile. The predictive values of the variables for the detection of SGA fetuses were calculated using a logistic regression model and an analysis of the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: The sensitivity rates of the maternal characteristics, biophysical markers (MAP and UtA-PI), biochemical markers (PAPP-A and PlGF), and the association between them were: 23.3, 32.5, 25, and 30% respectively, at a false-positive (FP) rate of 10%, in group II and 26.5, 26.5, 23.5, and 23.5%, respectively, at a FP rate of 10% in group III. CONCLUSIONS: The predictive performances of the combination of maternal characteristics and biophysical and biochemical parameters were unsatisfactory, with a slight improvement in the predictive capacity for SGA fetuses <10th percentile.

Artificial Haemonchus contortus infection as a strategy to induce protective immune response to natural infection in Pelibuey lambs.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reduction in nematode faecal egg count (FEC) in Pelibuey lambs segregated as resistant (RES), susceptible (SUS) and intermediate (INT) to gastrointestinal nematodes. Twenty-nine weaned Pelibuey lambs, aged five months old, free of nematode infection, were used. Nine lambs were RES, six were SUS and 14 were INT lambs. The study consisted of two phases: in Phase 1 the lambs were infected experimentally with Haemonchus contortus. In Phase 2, the lambs were naturally infected by grazing. Faecal and blood samples were taken every week. The packed cell volume and total protein were quantified. The FEC value (FECmax) per lamb was recorded together with a natural reduction in FEC in the two phases. The data were analysed with a model of measures repeated over time. During Phase 1, the RES lambs showed the lowest FEC (1061 ± 1053) compared to the other groups (INT: 2385 ± 1794 eggs per gram of faeces (EPG); and SUS: 3958 ± 3037 EPG). However, in Phase 2 no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the groups of lambs (RES: 275 ± 498 EPG; SUS: 504 ± 1036 EPG; and INT: 603 ± 1061 EPG). At the end of Phase 1, the FEC of RES lambs was naturally reduced by 75.5% in respect to FECmax (p < 0.05), and at the end of Phase 2 the reduction in FEC was 90% in respect to FECmax (p > 0.05); the same behaviour was observed in RES and SUS lambs. It is concluded that the artificial infection in the lambs induced a more rapid immune response in RES than SUS lambs, and all lambs developed high acquired resistance by continuous infection.

Hydroethanolic extract from Endopleura uchi (Huber) Cuatrecasas and its marker bergenin: Toxicological and pharmacokinetic studies in silico and in vivo on zebrafish.

Endopleura uchi, is used for the treatment of inflammatory disease and related to the female reproductive tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute toxicity of the Endopleura uchi stem bark hydroethanolic extract (EEu) in zebrafish, emphasizing the histopathological and biochemical parameters, as well as evaluating the in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicological parameters of the phytochemical/pharmacological marker, bergenin, as their metabolites. The animals were orally treated with EEu at a single dose of 75 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg and 3000 mg/kg. the oral LD50 of the EEu higher to the dose of 3000 mg/kg. Behavioral, biochemical and histopathological changes were dose dependent. In silico pharmacokinetic predictions for bergenin and its metabolites showed moderate absorption in high human intestinal absorption (HIA) and Caco-2 models, reduced plasma protein binding, by low brain tissue binding and no P-glycoprotein (P-Gp) inhibition. Their metabolism is defined by the CYP450 enzyme, in addition to bergenin inhibition of CYP2C9, CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. In the bergenin and its metabolites in silico toxicity test it have been shown to cause carcinogenicity and a greater involvement of the bergenin with the CYP enzymes in the I and II hepatic and renal metabolism's phases was observed. It is possible to suggest that the histopathological damages are involved with the interaction of this major compound and its metabolites at the level of the cellular-biochemical mechanisms which involve the absorption, metabolization and excretion of these possible prodrug and drug.

Interaction with Blood Proteins of a Ruthenium(II) Nitrofuryl Semicarbazone Complex: Effect on the Antitumoral Activity.

The steady rise in the cancer burden and grim statistics set a vital need for new therapeutic solutions. Given their high efficiency, metallodrugs are quite appealing in cancer chemotherapy. This work examined the anticancer activity of an anti-trypanosomal ruthenium-based compound bearing the 5-nitrofuryl pharmacophore, [RuII(dmso)2(5-nitro-2-furaldehyde semicarbazone)] (abbreviated as RuNTF; dmso is the dimethyl sulfoxide ligand). The cytotoxicity of RuNTF was evaluated in vitro against ovarian adenocarcinoma, hormone-dependent breast adenocarcinoma, prostate carcinoma (grade IV) and V79 lung fibroblasts human cells. The activity of RuNTF was similar to the benchmark metallodrug cisplatin for the breast line and inactive against the prostate line and lung fibroblasts. Given the known role of serum protein binding in drug bioavailability and the distribution via blood plasma, this study assessed the interaction of RuNTF with human serum albumin (HSA) by circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The fluorescence emission quenching from the HSA-Trp214 residue and the lifetime data upon RuNTF binding evidenced the formation of a 1:1 {RuNTF-albumin} adduct with log Ksv = (4.58 ± 0.01) and log KB = (4.55 ± 0.01). This is supported by CD data with an induced CD broad band observed at ~450 nm even after short incubation times. Importantly, the binding to either HSA or human apo-transferrin is beneficial to the cytotoxicity of the complex towards human cancer cells by enhancing the cytotoxic activity of RuNTF.

Protein disulfide isomerase plasma levels in healthy humans reveal proteomic signatures involved in contrasting endothelial phenotypes.

Redox-related plasma proteins are candidate reporters of protein signatures associated with endothelial structure/function. Thiol-proteins from protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family are unexplored in this context. Here, we investigate the occurrence and physiological significance of a circulating pool of PDI in healthy humans. We validated an assay for detecting PDI in plasma of healthy individuals. Our results indicate high inter-individual (median = 330 pg/mL) but low intra-individual variability over time and repeated measurements. Remarkably, plasma PDI levels could discriminate between distinct plasma proteome signatures, with PDI-rich (>median) plasma differentially expressing proteins related to cell differentiation, protein processing, housekeeping functions and others, while PDI-poor plasma differentially displayed proteins associated with coagulation, inflammatory responses and immunoactivation. Platelet function was similar among individuals with PDI-rich vs. PDI-poor plasma. Remarkably, such protein signatures closely correlated with endothelial function and phenotype, since cultured endothelial cells incubated with PDI-poor or PDI-rich plasma recapitulated gene expression and secretome patterns in line with their corresponding plasma signatures. Furthermore, such signatures translated into functional responses, with PDI-poor plasma promoting impairment of endothelial adhesion to fibronectin and a disturbed pattern of wound-associated migration and recovery area. Patients with cardiovascular events had lower PDI levels vs. healthy individuals. This is the first study describing PDI levels as reporters of specific plasma proteome signatures directly promoting contrasting endothelial phenotypes and functional responses.

Protein disulfide isomerase plasma levels in healthy humans reveal proteomic signatures involved in contrasting endothelial phenotypes

Redox-related plasma proteins are candidate reporters of protein signatures associated with endothelial struc-ture/function. Thiol-proteins from protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family are unexplored in this context. Here,we investigate the occurrence and physiological significance of a circulating pool of PDI in healthy humans. Wevalidated an assay for detecting PDI in plasma of healthy individuals. Our results indicate high inter-individual(median = 330 pg/mL) but low intra-individual variability over time and repeated measurements. Remarkably,plasma PDI levels could discriminate between distinct plasma proteome signatures, with PDI-rich (> median)plasma differentially expressing proteins related to cell differentiation, protein processing, housekeeping func-tions and others, while PDI-poor plasma differentially displayed proteins associated with coagulation, in-flammatory responses and immunoactivation. Platelet function was similar among individuals with PDI-rich vs.PDI-poor plasma. Remarkably, such protein signatures closely correlated with endothelial function and phe-notype, since cultured endothelial cells incubated with PDI-poor or PDI-rich plasma recapitulated gene ex-pression and secretome patterns in line with their corresponding plasma signatures. Furthermore, such sig-natures translated into functional responses, with PDI-poor plasma promoting impairment of endothelialadhesion to fibronectin and a disturbed pattern of wound-associated migration and recovery area. Patients withcardiovascular events had lower PDI levels vs. healthy individuals. This is the first study describing PDI levels asreporters of specific plasma proteome signatures directly promoting contrasting endothelial phenotypes andfunctional responses.

Corrección de los múltiplos de la mediana de los biomarcadores del modelo de predicción de preeclampsia de la Fetal Medicine Foundation para población mexicana / Correction of the multiples of median of the biomarkers used in the Fetal Medicine Foundation's prediction model for preeclampsia in Mexican population

Resumen OBJETIVO: Calcular y ajustar los múltiplos de la mediana para el índice de pulsatilidad medio de las arterias uterinas, presión arterial media materna, factor de crecimiento placentario y proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo, a fin de valorar el desempeño diagnóstico del modelo corregido de preeclampsia de la Fetal Medicine Foundation en población mexicana. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte prospectiva efectuado en el Centro de Salud Dr. Galo Soberón y Parra entre el 1 de octubre de 2015 y el 30 de junio de 2016. Criterio de inclusión: pacientes con embarazo de 11-13.6 semanas. Criterio de exclusión: pacientes de riesgo no seleccionado, con embarazo único, entre 11 y 13.6 semanas calculadas por ecografía mediante longitud cráneo cauda. Criterio de eliminación: pacientes que abandonaron el estudio. Se evaluaron el índice de pulsatilidad medio de las arterias uterinas, la presión arterial media, los valores séricos del factor de crecimiento placentario y la proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo. Se comparó la diferencia en la distribución de los biomarcadores entre la observada en población mexicana y la esperada según la formula original de la Fetal Medicine Foundation. Cuando la diferencia fue mayor a 0.2 múltiplos de la mediana, se utilizó la mediana del observado como coeficiente de ajuste a la fórmula original del esperado. RESULTADOS: De las 300 pacientes reclutadas, 292 concluyeron el estudio. La media de semanas de embarazo al momento del tamizaje fue de 12.4 (desviación estándar 0.72). La prevalencia de preeclampsia fue de 4.5% (13 de 292). Se encontraron diferencias importantes en la distribución de múltiplos de la mediana para el índice de pulsatilidad medio de las arterias uterinas, factor de crecimiento placentario y proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo. Posterior a la corrección de los biomarcadores, la sensibilidad, falsos positivos y área bajo la curva del modelo ajustado para detectar cualquier preeclampsia fue de 92% (12 de 13), 5.7% (16 de 279) y 93.3%, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: La distribución de los múltiplos de la mediana en población mexicana es distinta para los biomarcadores: factor de crecimiento placentario, proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo e índice de pulsatilidad medio de las arterias uterinas. El ajuste de estos biomarcadores para población mexicana resulta en un buen desempeño diagnóstico del modelo de preeclampsia.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Calculate and adjust the multiples of the median (MoMs) for the mean pulsatility index of uterine arteries (IPm Aut), mean arterial pressure (PAM), placental growth factor (PlGF) and plasma protein associated with pregnancy (PAPP-A), in order to assess the diagnostic performance of the corrected preeclampsia model of the fetal medicine foundation in the Mexican population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Case-control study nested in a prospective cohort conducted at the "Dr. Galo Soberón y Parra "from October 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016. Patients with pregnancy of 11-13.6 weeks were included, multiple pregnancies or older than 14 weeks were excluded and patients with medication intake prior to pregnancy; Patients who decided to leave the study were eliminated. Autm IPm, PAM, PlGF and PAPP-A serum values were evaluated. The difference in the distribution of biomarkers between that observed in the Mexican population and that expected was compared according to the original formula of the Fetal Medicine Foundation. When the difference was greater than 0.2 MoMs, the median observed was used as an adjustment coefficient to the original expected formula. RESULTS: Of the 300 patients recruited, 292 concluded the study. The average gestational age at the time of screening was 12.4 weeks (standard deviation [SD] 0.72). The prevalence of preeclampsia was 4.5% (13/292). Important differences were found in the distribution of multiples of the median (MoMs) for IPm Aut, PlGF and PAPP-A. After correction of the biomarkers, the sensitivity, false positives and area under the curve (AUC) of the model adjusted to detect any preeclampsia was 92% (12/13), 5.7% (16/279) and 93.3%, respectively . CONCLUSIONS: The distribution of MoMs in the Mexican population is different for the PlGF, PAPP-A and IPm Aut biomarkers. The adjustment of these biomarkers to the Mexican population results in a good diagnostic performance of the preeclampsia model.

Hemato-biochemical profile of meat cattle submitted to different types of pre-loading handling and transport times.

Pre-loading handling and conditions of transport are related to welfare, disease risk and product quality of production animals. These steps continue to be one of the major animal management problems in Brazil. This study evaluated the effects of different types of pre-loading handling and road transport times on the haematological and biochemical traits of cattle. Eighteen male cattle were submitted to three travel times (24, 48 and 72 h) in a truck soon after load using different types of pre-loading handling: traditional (rough handling), training (gentle handling) and use of flags to movement cattle. Haematological traits, blood biochemical measures as well as blood and faecal cortisol were analysed in order to assess animal welfare and physiological status. The traditional management showed to be more stressful, also had animals with a greater number of neutrophils and lower numbers of lymphocytes than handling with flags, showing that animals submitted to more stressful situations can have compromised immune system. Serum aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were within the reference levels and when taken together with increased creatine kinase patterns observed indicate muscle damage in traditional management. Decrease in glucose concentrations over time from traditional management to flag management was observed, while fructosamine was increased in traditional management with 72 h of travel. When taken together, all reported factors, immune, enzymatic, energetic and hormonal, indicate that the quality of pre-loading handling and time of transport were determinant for animal welfare, its homeostatic balance and sanitary conditions.

The use of targeted selective treatments on controlling gastrointestinal nematodes in different sheep categories under grazing system / O uso de tratamentos seletivos no controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em diferentes categorias de ovinos sob sistema de pastejo

Infections with gastrointestinal nematodes can impair both the animal health and performance. Thereby, the aim of this study was to evaluate the use of targeted selective treatments as the FAMACHA© system and faecal egg count on controlling gastrointestinal nematodes in different sheep categories under grazing system. Thirty Santa Inês sheep, six in each category (six weaning, six weaned lambs, six non-pregnant ewes, six pregnant ewes and six lactating ewes were used. Sheep were weighed, and blood and faecal samples were collected on day 0, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 for determination of faecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), total plasma protein (PPT) and the mucosa colour by FAMACHA© system in the morning (1) and afternoon (2). The faecal egg count was higher (p=0.0039) in weaning and weaned lambs compared to the non-pregnant, pregnant and lactating ewes. Also, FEC differed between ewes with higher counts in lactating ewes. The observation of eye mucosae showed a frequency of 100% of FAMACHA© scores ranged of 2.45 to 2.91 in the morning, differing (p=0.0494) among the categories, where weaned lambs showed better score. The animal categories and period interaction had a significant (p=0.0148) effect on FAMACHA© score 1 with better score in weaned lambs compared to the pregnant ewes at day 0, 15 and 75. In addition, weaned lambs were presented better FAMACHA© score compared with weaning lambs and lactating ewes at day 45 than weaning lambs at day 60 and 75. Packed cell volume in the morning and in the afternoon was influenced by days of collection with lower percentage at 30 days of experiment. The FAMACHA© system seems to be a suitable method to detect parasite infections. However, use of all available methods increases the accuracy of the diagnosis and promotes better control of gastrointestinal nematodes in grazing sheep.(AU)

Infecções por nematóides gastrointestinais podem prejudicar tanto a saúde como o desempenho animal. Diante disso, objetivou avaliar o uso de tratamentos seletivos como o sistema FAMACHA© e a contagem de ovos por grama de fezes no controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em diferentes categorias de ovinos sob sistema de pastejo. Trinta ovelhas Santa Inês, seis em cada categoria (seis cordeiros lactentes, seis cordeiros desmamados, seis ovelhas não-prenhes, seis ovelhas prenhes e seis ovelhas lactantes) foram utilizadas. Os ovinos foram pesados, amostras de sangue e fezes foram coletadas nos dias 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 para determinação de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG), volume globular (VG), proteínas plasmáticas totais (PPT) e avaliação da mucosa ocular pelo sistema FAMACHA© pela manhã (1) e pela tarde (2). A contagem de ovos por grama de fezes foi maior (p=0,0039) nos cordeiros lactentes e desmamados comparado às ovelhas não prenhes, prenhes e lactantes. Também o OPG diferiu entre ovelhas com maior contagem em ovelhas lactantes. A observação da mucosa ocular mostrou que a frequência do escore FAMACHA© variou de 2,45 a 2,91 pela manhã, diferindo (p=0,0494) entre categorias, aonde cordeiros desmamados mostraram melhor escore. A interação categoria animal e período teve um efeito significante no escore FAMACHA© 1 com melhor escore em cordeiros desmamados comparado às ovelhas prenhes nos dias 0, 15 e 75. Além disso, cordeiros desmamados apresentaram melhor escore FAMACHA© comparado com os cordeiros lactentes e ovelhas lactantes aos 45 dias e com cordeiros lactentes nos dias 60 e 75. O volume globular pela manhã e pela tarde foi influenciado pelos dias de coleta com menor porcentagem aos 30 dias de experimento. O Sistema FAMACHA© mostrou ser um método eficaz para detectar infecções parasitárias. Contudo, o uso de todos os métodos disponíveis aumenta a acurácia do diagnóstico e promove melhor controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em sistemas de pastejo.(AU)

The use of targeted selective treatments on controlling gastrointestinal nematodes in different sheep categories under grazing system / O uso de tratamentos seletivos no controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em diferentes categorias de ovinos sob sistema de pastejo

Infections with gastrointestinal nematodes can impair both the animal health and performance. Thereby, the aim of this study was to evaluate the use of targeted selective treatments as the FAMACHA© system and faecal egg count on controlling gastrointestinal nematodes in different sheep categories under grazing system. Thirty Santa Inês sheep, six in each category (six weaning, six weaned lambs, six non-pregnant ewes, six pregnant ewes and six lactating ewes were used. Sheep were weighed, and blood and faecal samples were collected on day 0, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 for determination of faecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), total plasma protein (PPT) and the mucosa colour by FAMACHA© system in the morning (1) and afternoon (2). The faecal egg count was higher (p=0.0039) in weaning and weaned lambs compared to the non-pregnant, pregnant and lactating ewes. Also, FEC differed between ewes with higher counts in lactating ewes. The observation of eye mucosae showed a frequency of 100% of FAMACHA© scores ranged of 2.45 to 2.91 in the morning, differing (p=0.0494) among the categories, where weaned lambs showed better score. The animal categories and period interaction had a significant (p=0.0148) effect on FAMACHA© score 1 with better score in weaned lambs compared to the pregnant ewes at day 0, 15 and 75. In addition, weaned lambs were presented better FAMACHA© score compared with weaning lambs and lactating ewes at day 45 than weaning lambs at day 60 and 75. Packed cell volume in the morning and in the afternoon was influenced by days of collection with lower percentage at 30 days of experiment. The FAMACHA© system seems to be a suitable method to detect parasite infections. However, use of all available methods increases the accuracy of the diagnosis and promotes better control of gastrointestinal nematodes in grazing sheep.(AU)

Infecções por nematóides gastrointestinais podem prejudicar tanto a saúde como o desempenho animal. Diante disso, objetivou avaliar o uso de tratamentos seletivos como o sistema FAMACHA© e a contagem de ovos por grama de fezes no controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em diferentes categorias de ovinos sob sistema de pastejo. Trinta ovelhas Santa Inês, seis em cada categoria (seis cordeiros lactentes, seis cordeiros desmamados, seis ovelhas não-prenhes, seis ovelhas prenhes e seis ovelhas lactantes) foram utilizadas. Os ovinos foram pesados, amostras de sangue e fezes foram coletadas nos dias 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 para determinação de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG), volume globular (VG), proteínas plasmáticas totais (PPT) e avaliação da mucosa ocular pelo sistema FAMACHA© pela manhã (1) e pela tarde (2). A contagem de ovos por grama de fezes foi maior (p=0,0039) nos cordeiros lactentes e desmamados comparado às ovelhas não prenhes, prenhes e lactantes. Também o OPG diferiu entre ovelhas com maior contagem em ovelhas lactantes. A observação da mucosa ocular mostrou que a frequência do escore FAMACHA© variou de 2,45 a 2,91 pela manhã, diferindo (p=0,0494) entre categorias, aonde cordeiros desmamados mostraram melhor escore. A interação categoria animal e período teve um efeito significante no escore FAMACHA© 1 com melhor escore em cordeiros desmamados comparado às ovelhas prenhes nos dias 0, 15 e 75. Além disso, cordeiros desmamados apresentaram melhor escore FAMACHA© comparado com os cordeiros lactentes e ovelhas lactantes aos 45 dias e com cordeiros lactentes nos dias 60 e 75. O volume globular pela manhã e pela tarde foi influenciado pelos dias de coleta com menor porcentagem aos 30 dias de experimento. O Sistema FAMACHA© mostrou ser um método eficaz para detectar infecções parasitárias. Contudo, o uso de todos os métodos disponíveis aumenta a acurácia do diagnóstico e promove melhor controle de nematóides gastrointestinais em sistemas de pastejo.(AU)

Comparação entre valores de hematócrito e proteína plasmática por meio de amostras de sangue obtidas através de coletas de cateter periférico e venopunção da veia facial transversa em equinos / Comparison between values of hematocrit and plasma protein through blood samples obtained via peripheral catheter collections and venipuncture of the transverse facial vein in horses / Comparación entre valores de hematocrito y proteína plasmática por media de muestras de sangre obtenidas a través de colectas de catéter periférico y venopunción de la vena facial transversa en equinos

O volume ocupado pelos eritrócitos em uma amostra de sangue é quantificado como hematócrito, expresso em porcentagem. É normalmente repetido em intervalos regulares, principalmente para a identificação de desidratação e anemias. Na medicina humana, vários estudos têm comparado valores laboratoriais de amostras de sangue obtidos via venopunção e cateteres periféricos. Na medicina veterinária, porém, não foram conduzidos estudos sobre este tópico. Para realização do presente estudo utilizaram-se amostras sanguíneas de animais atendidos no Hospital Veterinário Anhembi Morumbi. As amostras foram obtidas através da venopunção da veia facial transversa e do cateter previamente colocado na veia jugular. O hematócrito de ambas foi determinado pelo método manual utilizando-se centrífuga e o plasma observado em refratômetro manual. Os resultados foram comparados entre as duas amostras. Testes estatísticos realizados mostraram que não existe diferença significativa entre os dois métodos, sendo a coleta através do cateter uma possibilidade para o acompanhamento de animais em manejo intensivo, minimizando os danos causados aos animais.(AU)

The volume occupied by erythrocytes in a blood sample is quantified as hematocrit, expressed as a percentage. It is usually repeated at regular intervals, primarily for the identification of dehydration and anemia. In human medicine, several studies have compared laboratory values of blood samples obtained via venipuncture and peripheral catheters. In veterinary medicine, however, no studies on this topic have been conducted. For the 50 accomplishment of the present study we used blood samples of animals attended at the Veterinary Hospital Anhembi Morumbi. The samples were obtained through venipuncture of the transverse facial vein and the catheter previously placed in the jugular vein. The hematocrit of both was determined by manual method using centrifuge and the plasma observed in manual refractometer. The results were compared between the two samples. Statistical tests showed that there is no significant difference between the two methods, with catheter collection being a possibility for the monitoring of animals under intensive management, minimizing the damages caused to the animals.(AU)

El volumen ocupado por los eritrocitos en una muestra de sangre se cuantifica como hematocrito, expresado en porcentaje. Se suele repetir a intervalos regulares, principalmente para la identificación de deshidratación y anemias. En la medicina humana, varios estudios han comparado valores de laboratorio de muestras de sangre obtenidas vía venopunción y catéteres periféricos. En la medicina veterinaria, sin embargo, no se realizaron estudios sobre este tema. Para la realización del presente estudio se utilizaron muestras sanguíneas de animales atendidos en el Hospital Veterinario Anhembi Morumbi. Las muestras sanguíneas se obtuvieron a través de la venopunción de la vena facial transversa y del catéter previamente colocado en la vena yugular. El hematocrito de ambas fue determinado por el método manual utilizando centrífuga y el plasma observado en refractómetro manual. Los resultados se compararon entre las dos muestras. Las pruebas estadísticas realizadas mostraron que no existe diferencia significativa entre los dos métodos, siendo la recolección a través del catéter una posibilidad para el acornpañarniento de animales en manejo intensivo, minimizando los daños causados a los animales.(AU)

Comparação entre valores de hematócrito e proteína plasmática por meio de amostras de sangue obtidas através de coletas de cateter periférico e venopunção da veia facial transversa em equinos / Comparison between values of hematocrit and plasma protein through blood samples obtained via peripheral catheter collections and venipuncture of the transverse facial vein in horses / Comparación entre valores de hematocrito y proteína plasmática por media de muestras de sangre obtenidas a través de colectas de catéter periférico y venopunción de la vena facial transversa en equinos

O volume ocupado pelos eritrócitos em uma amostra de sangue é quantificado como hematócrito, expresso em porcentagem. É normalmente repetido em intervalos regulares, principalmente para a identificação de desidratação e anemias. Na medicina humana, vários estudos têm comparado valores laboratoriais de amostras de sangue obtidos via venopunção e cateteres periféricos. Na medicina veterinária, porém, não foram conduzidos estudos sobre este tópico. Para realização do presente estudo utilizaram-se amostras sanguíneas de animais atendidos no Hospital Veterinário Anhembi Morumbi. As amostras foram obtidas através da venopunção da veia facial transversa e do cateter previamente colocado na veia jugular. O hematócrito de ambas foi determinado pelo método manual utilizando-se centrífuga e o plasma observado em refratômetro manual. Os resultados foram comparados entre as duas amostras. Testes estatísticos realizados mostraram que não existe diferença significativa entre os dois métodos, sendo a coleta através do cateter uma possibilidade para o acompanhamento de animais em manejo intensivo, minimizando os danos causados aos animais.

The volume occupied by erythrocytes in a blood sample is quantified as hematocrit, expressed as a percentage. It is usually repeated at regular intervals, primarily for the identification of dehydration and anemia. In human medicine, several studies have compared laboratory values of blood samples obtained via venipuncture and peripheral catheters. In veterinary medicine, however, no studies on this topic have been conducted. For the 50 accomplishment of the present study we used blood samples of animals attended at the Veterinary Hospital Anhembi Morumbi. The samples were obtained through venipuncture of the transverse facial vein and the catheter previously placed in the jugular vein. The hematocrit of both was determined by manual method using centrifuge and the plasma observed in manual refractometer. The results were compared between the two samples. Statistical tests showed that there is no significant difference between the two methods, with catheter collection being a possibility for the monitoring of animals under intensive management, minimizing the damages caused to the animals.

El volumen ocupado por los eritrocitos en una muestra de sangre se cuantifica como hematocrito, expresado en porcentaje. Se suele repetir a intervalos regulares, principalmente para la identificación de deshidratación y anemias. En la medicina humana, varios estudios han comparado valores de laboratorio de muestras de sangre obtenidas vía venopunción y catéteres periféricos. En la medicina veterinaria, sin embargo, no se realizaron estudios sobre este tema. Para la realización del presente estudio se utilizaron muestras sanguíneas de animales atendidos en el Hospital Veterinario Anhembi Morumbi. Las muestras sanguíneas se obtuvieron a través de la venopunción de la vena facial transversa y del catéter previamente colocado en la vena yugular. El hematocrito de ambas fue determinado por el método manual utilizando centrífuga y el plasma observado en refractómetro manual. Los resultados se compararon entre las dos muestras. Las pruebas estadísticas realizadas mostraron que no existe diferencia significativa entre los dos métodos, siendo la recolección a través del catéter una posibilidad para el acornpañarniento de animales en manejo intensivo, minimizando los daños causados a los animales.