Kinetics and mineralization fraction of organic matter from sewage sludge mixed with soil under controlled laboratory conditions.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the kinetics and mineralization fraction of organic matter from sewage sludge mixed with the soil under controlled laboratory conditions. For this, organic material samples accumulated in layers 0-5 cm, 5-10 cm and 10-15 cm in relation to the surface of a vertical flow constructed wetland system (VF-CW) used for treatment of septic tank sludge, in addition to samples of dewatered sludge from a septic tank and a UASB reactor and non-dewatered sludge from an anaerobic digester were mixed with material collected from the surface layer of a Red Yellow Argisol at rates equivalent to the applications, via organic residues, of 300 and 600 kg ha-1 year-1 of total nitrogen. It was found that the two-phase kinetic equation fit better to the mineralization data of labile and recalcitrant organic carbon. For the lowest nitrogen application rate in the mixtures, the mineralization fractions of the total organic carbon were higher than 73%, while at the highest dose there was a reduction in the mineralization of organic matter by 17% and 63%, respectively in samples collected in layer 10-15 cm from the VF-CW and in the septic tank sludge dewatered in the drying bed.

Xenodiagnosis in four domestic cats naturally infected by Leishmania infantum.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that continues to pose a serious public health problem. Albeit dogs have long been held as the major reservoirs of Leishmania infantum, the involvement of domestic cats in the zoonotic cycle of visceral leishmaniasis has gained prominence. Here, 240 cats were evaluated by clinical signs and haematological/biochemical changes compatible with leishmaniasis and were diagnosed by serological, molecular, and parasitological techniques. Thus, four cats naturally infected by L. infantum were submitted to xenodiagnosis. A total of 203 females of Lutzomyia longipalpis were subjected to feeding on four cats, with all females completing the blood meal. Parasitological and molecular assays were carried out to evaluate the presence of L. infantum in the sand flies' midgut. Promastigotes were observed in 10 females (6.5%) that fed on one cat, and L. infantum DNA was detected in 17 (8.4%) females that fed on two cats. Our results strengthen the evidence that naturally infected cats are capable of transmitting L. infantum to sand flies.

The effect of different grazing heights on carcass and meat quality characteristics of Nellore cattle fattened in pastures of Convert grass.

Carcass characteristic and meat quality from bulls and Nellore steers (n = 64 total) subjected to different grazing heights (15, 25, 35, and 45 cm) were evaluated isolatedly, under continuous grazing and variable load, in pastures of Convert grass. The experimental period was from May 2015 to June 2017, in an area of 16 ha, divided into 16 paddocks of 1 ha. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications. Each paddock was grazed by three animals and regulators, used to adjust grazing heights. The final slaughter weight, hot carcass, and crude protein in the meat of steers were higher when the pastures were managed at 42 cm. When the pasture was managed between 25 and 35 cm in height, greater fat thickness, marbling, muscle:bone and muscle+fat:bone ratio and lower color* of the meat and percentage of bone were found. For the steers, the height of 40 cm provided higher fat thickness and marbling in the meat. The loss during thawing in meat was greater at 28 cm in height. The heights of grazing alter the carcass characteristics and meat of bulls and steers.

Artificial Intelligence-Based Grading Quality of Bovine Blastocyst Digital Images: Direct Capture with Juxtaposed Lenses of Smartphone Camera and Stereomicroscope Ocular Lens.

In this study, we developed an online graphical and intuitive interface connected to a server aiming to facilitate professional access worldwide to those facing problems with bovine blastocysts classification. The interface Blasto3Q, where 3Q refers to the three qualities of the blastocyst grading, contains a description of 24 variables that were extracted from the image of the blastocyst and analyzed by three Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) that classify the same loaded image. The same embryo (i.e., the biological specimen) was submitted to digital image capture by the control group (inverted microscope with 40× magnification) and the experimental group (stereomicroscope with maximum of magnification plus 4× zoom from the cell phone camera). The images obtained from the control and experimental groups were uploaded on Blasto3Q. Each image from both sources was evaluated for segmentation and submitted (only if it could be properly or partially segmented) for automatic quality grade classification by the three ANNs of the Blasto3Q program. Adjustments on the software program through the use of scaling algorithm software were performed to ensure the proper search and segmentation of the embryo in the raw images when they were captured by the smartphone, since this source produced small embryo images compared with those from the inverted microscope. With this new program, 77.8% of the images from smartphones were successfully segmented and from those, 85.7% were evaluated by the Blasto3Q in agreement with the control group.

Características do amido do grão de milho processado por reconstituição e moagem para uso na alimentação de ruminantes

SAMMURY The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of moisture reconstitution associated with coarse milling of corn grain on macroscopic and microscopic grain characteristics. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Viçosa. The following corn processing combinations were tested: corn reconstituted after being milled to 5 mm (CRA); corn reconstituted before being milled to 5 mm (CRB); and corn milled to 1 mm (CGF). Evaluation assays of -amylase enzyme activity on the grain's starch, scanning electron microscopy for processed kernels, and particle-ize analysis were undertaken. The highest number of particles larger than 1.19 mm was found in CRB, because reconstitution occurred prior to the milling process, which facilitates the release of the largest part of the pericarp adherent to the corn grain. Microscopically, the starch granules did not display variations in their basic standard structure, and some alterations observed in the scanning electron microscopy images were due to the preparation of samples for visualization. There was no effect of grain processing on the rates of starch released by the action of the -amylase enzyme (Novozymes, Termamyl 2x).

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a reconstituição da umidade associada à moagem grosseira do grão de milho sobre as características macroscópicas e microscópicas dos grãos. O experimento foi realizado no Laboratório de Nutrição animal do Departamento de Zootecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Foram utilizadas as seguintes combinações de processamento do milho: milho com reconstituição da umidade depois da moagem a 5 mm (MRD); milho com reconstituição da umidade antes da moagem a 5 mm (MRA) e milho moído a 1 mm (MMF). Foram realizados os ensaios de avaliação da atividade da enzima -amilase sobre o amido dos grãos, microscopia eletrônica de varredura para os grãos de milho processados e avaliação da granulometria. O MRA apresentou maior número de partículas com tamanho acima de 1,19mm devido ao fato de a reconstituição ocorrer antes do processo de moagem, o que favorece a liberação da maior parte do pericarpo aderido ao grão de milho. Microscopicamente, os grânulos de amido não apresentaram variações na estrutura básica padrão sendo que algumas alterações observadas nas imagens de microscopia eletrônica de varredura foram devidas à preparação das amostras para visualização. A taxa de liberação de amido pela a ação da enzima -amilase (Novozymes, Termamyl 2x) seguiu mesmo padrão para os três tipos de processamento.

Produtividade e qualidade da forragemde trigo-mourisco (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) e de milheto (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.BR)

SUMMARY This trial compared forage production and quality of Pearl Millet and Buckwheat in three cutting age on irrigation conditions during dry season, evaluated in a randomized block split plot design with tree replications. Was determined content of Dry Matter (DM), Crude Protein (CP), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Mineral Matter (MM) and in vitro gas production. Forage production of Buckwheat was higher than Pearl Millet in all the cutting ages. Pearl Millet CP content was similar to all three cuts but Buckwheat CP content was higher in the first cut and reduced in the others. The NDF content of Buckwheat was higher in the first cut and reduced in the others, meanwhile Pearl Millet presented low NDF value in the first cut but increased in the second and third cut. The Buckwheat presented high ADF content than Pearl Millet in all the cuts. In vitro gas production from Pearl Millet was higher in the first cut but more high for Buckwheat in the second and third cuts. Buckwheat produced more forage with high quality than Pearl Millet during dry season.

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar o valor forrageiro do milheto e trigo-mourisco, sob irrigação, em diferentes idades de corte. Utilizou-se delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, com os tratamentos arranjados em modelo de parcelas subdivididas. As plantas foram cultivadas durante a estação seca, sob irrigação e colhidas em três idades de corte, 47, 57 e 67 dias (tratamentos). Foram determinados os teores de matéria seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), fibra em detergente ácido (FDA), matéria mineral e produção de gases in vitro e a produção de matéria seca. A produção do trigo-mourisco (2301, 3144 e 4471 kg MS/ha) foi superior à do milheto (437, 592 e 2224 kg MS/ha) nas três idades de corte. Os teores de PB do milheto foram, em média, 22,3% nas três idades de corte, mas no trigo-mourisco reduziu de 23,8% no primeiro corte, para 14% nos demais cortes. O trigo mourisco apresentou maior teor de FDN no primeiro corte 57,6% contra 52,1% do milheto, entretanto diminuiu no segundo e terceiro cortes, 46,8% e 41,2%, respectivamente, enquanto que no milheto mantiveram-se em 55,1% e 52,7% no segundo e terceiro corte. Os teores de FDA forma mais elevados para o trigo mourisco em comparação com o milheto nas três idades de corte estudadas. A produção de gases foi maior para o trigo mourisco em comparação ao milheto, com exceção do primeiro corte, quando o trigo apresentou maiores taxas de fermentação. O trigo mourisco apresentou qualidade como forrageira, sendo mais produtivo e nutritivo do que o milheto durante o período seco, sob irrigação.

Produtividade e qualidade da forragemde trigo-mourisco (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) e de milheto (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.BR)

SUMMARY This trial compared forage production and quality of Pearl Millet and Buckwheat in three cutting age on irrigation conditions during dry season, evaluated in a randomized block split plot design with tree replications. Was determined content of Dry Matter (DM), Crude Protein (CP), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Mineral Matter (MM) and in vitro gas production. Forage production of Buckwheat was higher than Pearl Millet in all the cutting ages. Pearl Millet CP content was similar to all three cuts but Buckwheat CP content was higher in the first cut and reduced in the others. The NDF content of Buckwheat was higher in the first cut and reduced in the others, meanwhile Pearl Millet presented low NDF value in the first cut but increased in the second and third cut. The Buckwheat presented high ADF content than Pearl Millet in all the cuts. In vitro gas production from Pearl Millet was higher in the first cut but more high for Buckwheat in the second and third cuts. Buckwheat produced more forage with high quality than Pearl Millet during dry season.

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar o valor forrageiro do milheto e trigo-mourisco, sob irrigação, em diferentes idades de corte. Utilizou-se delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, com os tratamentos arranjados em modelo de parcelas subdivididas. As plantas foram cultivadas durante a estação seca, sob irrigação e colhidas em três idades de corte, 47, 57 e 67 dias (tratamentos). Foram determinados os teores de matéria seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), fibra em detergente ácido (FDA), matéria mineral e produção de gases in vitro e a produção de matéria seca. A produção do trigo-mourisco (2301, 3144 e 4471 kg MS/ha) foi superior à do milheto (437, 592 e 2224 kg MS/ha) nas três idades de corte. Os teores de PB do milheto foram, em média, 22,3% nas três idades de corte, mas no trigo-mourisco reduziu de 23,8% no primeiro corte, para 14% nos demais cortes. O trigo mourisco apresentou maior teor de FDN no primeiro corte 57,6% contra 52,1% do milheto, entretanto diminuiu no segundo e terceiro cortes, 46,8% e 41,2%, respectivamente, enquanto que no milheto mantiveram-se em 55,1% e 52,7% no segundo e terceiro corte. Os teores de FDA forma mais elevados para o trigo mourisco em comparação com o milheto nas três idades de corte estudadas. A produção de gases foi maior para o trigo mourisco em comparação ao milheto, com exceção do primeiro corte, quando o trigo apresentou maiores taxas de fermentação. O trigo mourisco apresentou qualidade como forrageira, sendo mais produtivo e nutritivo do que o milheto durante o período seco, sob irrigação.

Características do amido do grão de milho processado por reconstituição e moagem para uso na alimentação de ruminantes

SAMMURY The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of moisture reconstitution associated with coarse milling of corn grain on macroscopic and microscopic grain characteristics. The experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Viçosa. The following corn processing combinations were tested: corn reconstituted after being milled to 5 mm (CRA); corn reconstituted before being milled to 5 mm (CRB); and corn milled to 1 mm (CGF). Evaluation assays of -amylase enzyme activity on the grain's starch, scanning electron microscopy for processed kernels, and particle-ize analysis were undertaken. The highest number of particles larger than 1.19 mm was found in CRB, because reconstitution occurred prior to the milling process, which facilitates the release of the largest part of the pericarp adherent to the corn grain. Microscopically, the starch granules did not display variations in their basic standard structure, and some alterations observed in the scanning electron microscopy images were due to the preparation of samples for visualization. There was no effect of grain processing on the rates of starch released by the action of the -amylase enzyme (Novozymes, Termamyl 2x).

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a reconstituição da umidade associada à moagem grosseira do grão de milho sobre as características macroscópicas e microscópicas dos grãos. O experimento foi realizado no Laboratório de Nutrição animal do Departamento de Zootecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Foram utilizadas as seguintes combinações de processamento do milho: milho com reconstituição da umidade depois da moagem a 5 mm (MRD); milho com reconstituição da umidade antes da moagem a 5 mm (MRA) e milho moído a 1 mm (MMF). Foram realizados os ensaios de avaliação da atividade da enzima -amilase sobre o amido dos grãos, microscopia eletrônica de varredura para os grãos de milho processados e avaliação da granulometria. O MRA apresentou maior número de partículas com tamanho acima de 1,19mm devido ao fato de a reconstituição ocorrer antes do processo de moagem, o que favorece a liberação da maior parte do pericarpo aderido ao grão de milho. Microscopicamente, os grânulos de amido não apresentaram variações na estrutura básica padrão sendo que algumas alterações observadas nas imagens de microscopia eletrônica de varredura foram devidas à preparação das amostras para visualização. A taxa de liberação de amido pela a ação da enzima -amilase (Novozymes, Termamyl 2x) seguiu mesmo padrão para os três tipos de processamento.

Comportamento ingestivo de novilhas Pantaneiras mantidas em regime de confinamento

AbstractThe objective this work was to evaluate the intake and physiological behavior of heifers of the Pantaneira (Bos Taurus taurus) breed, feedlot and fed with different types of hay and concentrate, in a ratio in dry matter of 60:40 %, respectively. Fifteen animals, with an average initial weight of 298 kg and 30 months of age, were distributed through completely randomized design in three batches, with five replicates. The hays were: hay of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piata, hay of Panicum maximum cv. Massai, and hay of leguminous Stylosantes capitata/macrocephalacv. Campo Grande. All diets had similar energy and protein content of 63.3% Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) and 12.5% Crude Protein (CP) and were fed twice a day, ad libitum. The observations of ingestive behavior and physiology were made in three batteries of 48 hours each, an interval of 28 days, totaling 144 hours. The data were interpreted by analysis of variance and Tukey test. There werent influences of forage in feeding times, rumination, sleeping and interacting; efficiencies in feeding and rumination, water intake and excretion in urine and feaces, and all variables are statistically similar. Therefore, the use of either type of hay in the diet is recommended Pantaneiras heifers.

ResumoObjetivou-se avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de novilhas da raça Pantaneira (Bos taurus taurus) confinadas e alimentadas com diferentes tipos de feno e ração concentrada, com uma relação na matéria seca de 60:40%, respectivamente. Quinze animais, com peso médio inicial de 298kg e idade de 30 meses, foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em três lotes, com cinco repetições. Os fenos utilizados foram: feno deBrachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã, feno de Panicum maximum cv. Massai, e feno de Stylosantes capitata/macrocephala cv. Campo Grande. Todas as dietas possuíam teores energéticos e proteicos semelhantes, de 63,3% de nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e 12,5% de proteína bruta (PB), e eram fornecidas duas vezes ao dia, à vontade. As observações de comportamento ingestivo foram efetuadas em três baterias de 48 horas cada, em intervalos de 28 dias, totalizando 144 horas. Os dados foram interpretados por meio de análise de variância e teste de Tukey. Não foram observadas influências das forrageiras nos tempos de alimentação, ruminação, ócio, interagindo e dormindo, tampouco nas eficiências de alimentação e de ruminação, na ingestão de água e nas excreções de urina e fezes, sendo todas as variáveis estatisticamente iguais. A utilização de qualquer um dos tipos de feno na dieta de novilhas Pantaneiras é recomendada.

Conjunctival swab PCR to detect Leishmania spp. in cats.

The relevance of the dog as a source of visceral leishmaniasis infection is known, but the role of cats as reservoir hosts for leishmaniasis is not yet fully clear. This study assessed the efficacy of conjunctival swab PCR (CS-PCR) in the detection of cats infected by Leishmania spp. The results were seven (13.5%) cats positive for Leishmania spp. in the PCR, in 52 cats tested from Pirassunuga-SP and Ilha Solteira-SP. From the city of Pirassununga - SP 28.6% (2/7) were positive and from the city of Ilha Solteira - SP 11.1% (5/45) were positive. The results showed that CS-PCR was capable of detecting cats infected by this protozoan. Conjunctival swab samples proved easier to perform in cats, which might facilitate studies on the frequency and distribution of feline leishmaniasis.

Comportamento ingestivo de novilhas Pantaneiras mantidas em regime de confinamento

AbstractThe objective this work was to evaluate the intake and physiological behavior of heifers of the Pantaneira (Bos Taurus taurus) breed, feedlot and fed with different types of hay and concentrate, in a ratio in dry matter of 60:40 %, respectively. Fifteen animals, with an average initial weight of 298 kg and 30 months of age, were distributed through completely randomized design in three batches, with five replicates. The hays were: hay of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piata, hay of Panicum maximum cv. Massai, and hay of leguminous Stylosantes capitata/macrocephalacv. Campo Grande. All diets had similar energy and protein content of 63.3% Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) and 12.5% Crude Protein (CP) and were fed twice a day, ad libitum. The observations of ingestive behavior and physiology were made in three batteries of 48 hours each, an interval of 28 days, totaling 144 hours. The data were interpreted by analysis of variance and Tukey test. There werent influences of forage in feeding times, rumination, sleeping and interacting; efficiencies in feeding and rumination, water intake and excretion in urine and feaces, and all variables are statistically similar. Therefore, the use of either type of hay in the diet is recommended Pantaneiras heifers.

ResumoObjetivou-se avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de novilhas da raça Pantaneira (Bos taurus taurus) confinadas e alimentadas com diferentes tipos de feno e ração concentrada, com uma relação na matéria seca de 60:40%, respectivamente. Quinze animais, com peso médio inicial de 298kg e idade de 30 meses, foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em três lotes, com cinco repetições. Os fenos utilizados foram: feno deBrachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã, feno de Panicum maximum cv. Massai, e feno de Stylosantes capitata/macrocephala cv. Campo Grande. Todas as dietas possuíam teores energéticos e proteicos semelhantes, de 63,3% de nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e 12,5% de proteína bruta (PB), e eram fornecidas duas vezes ao dia, à vontade. As observações de comportamento ingestivo foram efetuadas em três baterias de 48 horas cada, em intervalos de 28 dias, totalizando 144 horas. Os dados foram interpretados por meio de análise de variância e teste de Tukey. Não foram observadas influências das forrageiras nos tempos de alimentação, ruminação, ócio, interagindo e dormindo, tampouco nas eficiências de alimentação e de ruminação, na ingestão de água e nas excreções de urina e fezes, sendo todas as variáveis estatisticamente iguais. A utilização de qualquer um dos tipos de feno na dieta de novilhas Pantaneiras é recomendada.

Peptidases from latex of Carica candamarcensis upregulate COX-2 and IL-1 mRNA transcripts against Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium-mediated inflammation.

The immunomodulatory properties of a mixture of cysteine peptidases (P1G10) obtained from the fruit lattice of Carica candamarcensis were investigated. P1G10 was obtained from fresh latex samples by chromatography in a Sephadex column and initially administered to Swiss mice (n = 5; 1 or 10 mg/kg) via i.p. After 30 min, the mice were injected with carrageenan (0.5 mg/mouse) or heat-killed S. Typhimurium (10(7) CFU/mL; 100°C/30 min) into the peritoneal cavity. Afterwards, two animal groups were i.p. administered with P1G10 (n = 6; 1, 5, or 10 mg/Kg) or PBS 24 hours prior to challenge with live S. Typhimurium (10(7) CFU/mL). P1G10 stimulated the proliferation of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes, 6 h after injection of carrageenan or heat-killed bacteria, respectively. Furthermore, survival after infection was dose-dependent and reached 60% of the animal group. On the other hand, control mice died 1-3 days after infection. The examination of mRNA transcripts in liver cells 24 h after infection confirmed fold variation increases of 5.8 and 4.8 times on average for IL-1 and COX-2, respectively, in P1G10 pretreated mice but not for TNF-α, IL-10, γ-IFN and iNOS, for which the results were comparable to untreated animals. These data are discussed in light of previous reports.

Serology, isolation, and molecular detection of Leptospira spp. from the tissues and blood of rats captured in a wild animal preservation centre in Brazil.

To elucidate the occurrence and epidemiology of leptospirosis in rats cohabitating with forest animals, 13 rats were captured at seven locations of the Centre for the Conservation of Wild Fauna (CCWF) in Sao Paulo state, Brazil, and samples of their blood, liver, and kidneys were collected. The diagnostic techniques utilized were the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Leptospira spp., and cultures of rat kidneys and liver in Fletcher's medium. The MAT results showed that 13 (100%) of the samples were reactive to 12 serovars among the 29 Leptospira spp. tested, and the Australis and Tarassovi serovars were the most frequently identified serovars. To research the agent in fragments of the liver and kidney, 13 samples from each tissue were cultured in Fletcher's medium, and the results revealed seven positive samples (53.8%; three from the kidneys and four from the livers). The analysis of the blood samples by PCR for Leptospira spp. showed that six animals (46.1%) were positive, whereas the analysis of the organs (kidneys and liver) by PCR revealed that nine animals (69.2%) were positive, and the culture of the organs revealed four positive animals (30.8%). These results suggest that the presence of Leptospira spp. infection in rats at the study site and the knowledge of the serovars that exist in this environment are important for the epidemiological comprehension of the disease and for the identification of control measures that should be considered to reduce the risk of transmission of the disease through this animal reservoir.

Self-adjusting file cleaning-shaping-irrigation system improves root-filling bond strength.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the present study was to assess the bond strength of root fillings in oval-shaped canals prepared with the self-adjusting file (SAF) system. METHODS: A careful specimen selection resulted in 2 equal groups, each consisting of 12 extracted mandibular canines with oval canals that had vital pulps before extraction. One group was subjected to the SAF protocol, and the other group underwent conventional protocol, which was the ProTaper system with syringe-needle irrigation. Full-strength sodium hypochlorite was used as an irrigant for both groups. The teeth were obturated in a standardized way, filled with a lentulo spiral as the root filling, and then prepared for micropush-out assessment by using root slices of 1-mm thickness. Loading was performed on a universal testing machine at a speed of 0.5 mm/min(-1). The Student's t test for pairwise comparisons was applied to assess the effect of each preparation technique on the push-out bond strength. RESULTS: All specimens showed measurable adhesive properties to root dentin. In addition, no premature failure occurred. The group-by-location interaction was significant (P = .0071); thus, the group comparisons were dependent on the canal third. Overall, the push-out bond strength was the highest in the coronal third and the lowest in the apical third. SAF-prepared specimens displayed significantly higher bond strengths (P = .0012, 0.51-5.9 MPa). CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that SAF preparation markedly influenced root-filling push-out bond strength in oval-shaped canals. Further investigations are needed to provide a better understanding of the physicochemical modifications of the root dentin prepared with the SAF cleaning-shaping-irrigation system.

Seroprevalence rates of antibodies againstLeishmania infantum and other protozoan and rickettsial parasites in dogs

Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum, which infects dogs and humans in many regions of Brazil. The present study involved an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) to analyze L. infantum,Ehrlichia spp., Babesia canis,Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninuminfection rates in serum samples from 93 dogs in a rural settlement in Ilha Solteira, SP, Brazil. The seroprevalence rates of anti-L. infantum, anti-Ehrlichia, anti-B. canis, anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies were 37.6%, 75.3%, 72%, 47.3% and 6.4%, respectively. In addition to IFAT, direct microscopic examination of popliteal lymph node aspirates revealed 26.9% of CVL positive dogs. Serological tests revealed that 17.2% of the dogs were seropositive for a single parasite, 29% for two parasites, 33% for three, 16.1% for four, and 1.1% for five parasites, while 3.2% were seronegative for five parasites. The presence of antibodies against these parasites in serum samples from dogs confirmed their exposure to these parasites in this rural area. Because of the potential zoonotic risk of these diseases, mainly leishmaniasis, ehrlichiosis and toxoplasmosis, special attention should focus on programs for the improvement of diagnostic assays and control measures against these parasites.

Leishmaniose Visceral Canina (LVC) é causada pelo protozoário Leishmania infantum, podendo infectar cães e humanos em várias regiões do Brasil. O presente estudo teve por objetivo realizar a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) para analisar os índices de infecção parasitária para L. infantum,Ehrlichia spp., Babesia canis,Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum, em 93 amostras de soro de cães de um assentamento rural no município de Ilha Solteira, SP, Brasil. A taxa de soroprevalência de cães com anticorpos anti-L. infantum, anti-Ehrlichia, anti-B. canis, anti-T. gondii e anti-N. caninum foi de 37,6%, 75,3%, 72%, 47,3% e 6,4%, respectivamente. Pelo exame microscópico direto dos parasitas nos esfregaços de aspirados de linfonodos poplíteos dos cães, a positividade para LVC foi de 26,9%. Pelos exames sorológicos, 17,2% dos cães estavam positivos com um único parasita, 29% com dois, 33% com três, 16,1% com quatro e 1,1% com cinco parasitas. Além disso, 3,2% eram soronegativos para todos os cinco agentes parasitários. A presença de anticorpos aos parasitos em amostras sorológicas confirmam a exposição dos cães às doenças parasitárias nesse assentamento rural. Devido ao potencial risco zoonótico destas doenças, principalmente leishmaniose, erliquiose e toxoplasmose, atenção especial deve ser dada aos programas que objetivam o aprimoramento de testes diagnósticos e de medidas de controle dessas parasitoses.

The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Piptadenia stipulacea Benth. (Fabaceae).

AIM: In this study, we attempted to identify the possible antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions of the aqueous phase, the ethyl acetate phase and one unknown flavonoid obtained from aerial parts of Piptadenia stipulacea, known in Brazil as "jurema-branca", "carcará" and "rasga-beiço". MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aerial parts of Piptadenia stipulacea were used and after fractionation, the flavonoid FGAL was obtained. Experiments were conducted on Swiss mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing test, the hot plate test, the formalin-induced pain test and zymosan A-induced peritonitis test. RESULTS: The aqueous and ethyl acetate phases (p.o., 100mg/kg); and the flavonoid FGAL (p.o. and i.p. at 100 micromol/kg), reduced the nociception produced by acetic acid, by 49.92%, 54.62%, 38.97% and 64.79%, respectively. In vivo inhibition of nociception by the ethyl acetate phase (100mg/kg, p.o.) in the hot plate test was favorable, indicating that this fraction exhibited central activity. The ethyl acetate phase (100mg/kg, p.o.) reduced the formalin effects in both phases by 28.51% and 55.72%, respectively. Treatment with the aqueous phase (100mg/kg, p.o.) and FGAL (100 micromol/kg, i.p.) only protected the second phase by 69.76% and 68.78%, respectively. In addition, it was observed in the zymosan A-induced peritonitis test that the aqueous phase, the ethyl acetate phase and the FGAL exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, reducing significantly the number of recruit cells by 35.84%, 37.70% and FGAL (1), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate that the FGAL elicits pronounced antinociceptive activity against several pain models. The actions of this flavonoid probably are due to antioxidative properties. However, pharmacological and chemical studies are continuing in order to characterize the mechanism(s) responsible for this antinociceptive action and also to identify other active substances present in Piptadenia stipulacea.

Atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênica isolados de alfaces

Considering the increase of the involvement of vegetables in the transmission of microorganism including the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli multiresistance to conventional drugs, the search for new antimicrobial compounds from natural sources, such as the essential oils, has been intensified in the last years. This research aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the essential oil from basil (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) front to sorogroups of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) isolated in lettuces (Lactuca sativa) using the Diffusion in Disk Method. The results showed that, all the tested strains of E. coli EPEC presented sensitivity to the essential oil's action, suggesting that it can be a source of compounds with therapeutic potential in the fighting to bacteria pathogenic.

Considerando-se a crescente participação dos vegetais na transmissão de microrganismos, incluindo as Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas multirresistentes às drogas convencionais, a busca por novos compostos com propriedades antimicrobianas a partir de fontes naturais, tais como os óleos essenciais, tem se intensificado nos últimos anos. Esta pesquisa objetivou avaliar a atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas (EPEC) isolados de alfaces (Lactuca sativa), utilizando-se o Método de Difusão em Disco (MDD). Os resultados evidenciaram que todas as cepas de E. coli EPEC testadas apresentaram sensibilidade à ação do óleo essencial, sugerindo que este possa ser uma fonte de compostos com potencial terapêutico no combate a bactérias patogênicas.

Atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênica isolados de alfaces

Considering the increase of the involvement of vegetables in the transmission of microorganism including the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli multiresistance to conventional drugs, the search for new antimicrobial compounds from natural sources, such as the essential oils, has been intensified in the last years. This research aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the essential oil from basil (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) front to sorogroups of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) isolated in lettuces (Lactuca sativa) using the Diffusion in Disk Method. The results showed that, all the tested strains of E. coli EPEC presented sensitivity to the essential oil's action, suggesting that it can be a source of compounds with therapeutic potential in the fighting to bacteria pathogenic.

Considerando-se a crescente participação dos vegetais na transmissão de microrganismos, incluindo as Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas multirresistentes às drogas convencionais, a busca por novos compostos com propriedades antimicrobianas a partir de fontes naturais, tais como os óleos essenciais, tem se intensificado nos últimos anos. Esta pesquisa objetivou avaliar a atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas (EPEC) isolados de alfaces (Lactuca sativa), utilizando-se o Método de Difusão em Disco (MDD). Os resultados evidenciaram que todas as cepas de E. coli EPEC testadas apresentaram sensibilidade à ação do óleo essencial, sugerindo que este possa ser uma fonte de compostos com potencial terapêutico no combate a bactérias patogênicas.

Atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênica isolados de alfaces

Considering the increase of the involvement of vegetables in the transmission of microorganism including the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli multiresistance to conventional drugs, the search for new antimicrobial compounds from natural sources, such as the essential oils, has been intensified in the last years. This research aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the essential oil from basil (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) front to sorogroups of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) isolated in lettuces (Lactuca sativa) using the Diffusion in Disk Method. The results showed that, all the tested strains of E. coli EPEC presented sensitivity to the essential oil's action, suggesting that it can be a source of compounds with therapeutic potential in the fighting to bacteria pathogenic.

Considerando-se a crescente participação dos vegetais na transmissão de microrganismos, incluindo as Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas multirresistentes às drogas convencionais, a busca por novos compostos com propriedades antimicrobianas a partir de fontes naturais, tais como os óleos essenciais, tem se intensificado nos últimos anos. Esta pesquisa objetivou avaliar a atividade antibacteriana do óleo essencial do manjericão (Ocimum basilicum Linn.) frente a sorogrupos de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas (EPEC) isolados de alfaces (Lactuca sativa), utilizando-se o Método de Difusão em Disco (MDD). Os resultados evidenciaram que todas as cepas de E. coli EPEC testadas apresentaram sensibilidade à ação do óleo essencial, sugerindo que este possa ser uma fonte de compostos com potencial terapêutico no combate a bactérias patogênicas.

The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of caulerpin, a bisindole alkaloid isolated from seaweeds of the genus Caulerpa.

The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of caulerpin was investigated. This bisindole alkaloid was isolated from the lipoid extract of Caulerpa racemosa and its structure was identified by spectroscopic methods, including IR and NMR techniques. The pharmacological assays used were the writhing and the hot plate tests, the formalin-induced pain, the capsaicin-induced ear edema and the carrageenan-induced peritonitis. Caulerpin was given orally at a concentration of 100 micromol/kg. In the abdominal constriction test caulerpin showed reduction in the acetic acid-induced nociception at 0.0945 micromol (0.0103-1.0984) and for dypirone it was 0.0426 micromol (0.0092-0.1972). In the hot plate test in vivo the inhibition of nociception by caulerpin (100 micromol/kg, p.o.) was also favorable. This result suggests that this compound exhibits a central activity, without changing the motor activity (seen in the rotarod test). Caulerpin (100 micromol/kg, p.o.) reduced the formalin effects in both phases by 35.4% and 45.6%, respectively. The possible anti-inflammatory activity observed in the second phase in the formalin test of caulerpin (100 micromol/kg, p.o.) was confirmed on the capsaicin-induced ear edema model, where an inhibition of 55.8% was presented. Indeed, it was also observed in the carrageenan-induced peritonitis that caulerpin (100 micromol/kg, p.o.) exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, reducing significantly the number of recruit cells by 48.3%. Pharmacological studies are continuing in order to characterize the mechanism(s) responsible for the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions and also to identify other active principles present in Caulerpa racemosa.