COVID-19 vaccine confidence in the post-vaccination era: Perceptions among adults with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Objective: Assess the perceived protection afforded by a range of COVID-19 vaccines in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases patients previously vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. Study design: Survey. Methods: On-line cross-sectional survey aimed at evaluating the perceived protection (and its determinants) afforded by a range of COVID-19 vaccines among immune-mediated inflammatory diseases previously vaccinated for COVID-19. Results: Out of 493 eligible respondents who lived in Brazil, 397 (80.5%) were confident that their primary vaccination series would protect them against severe COVID-19. In multivariate analysis, only overlapping immune-mediated inflammatory diseases remained (negatively) associated with the perception of protection. Conclusions: No influence was found between COVID-19 vaccine types and the perception of protection after initial vaccinations.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a probiotic agent and a possible aflatoxin B1 adsorbent in simulated fish intestinal tract conditions / Saccharomyces cerevisiae como agente probiótico e possível adsorvente de aflatoxina B1 em condições simuladas do trato intestinal de peixes

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the probiotic potential and absorption of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the aflatoxin B1 in simulated fish intestinal tract conditions. Three yeast strains were used, two from brewery: S. cerevisiae RC1 and S. cerevisiae RC3 and one from a fish farming environment: S. cerevisiae A8L2. The selected yeasts were subjected to the following in vitro tests: homologous inhibition, self-aggregation, co-aggregation, antibacterial activity, gastrointestinal conditions tolerance and adsorption of AFB1. All S. cerevisiae strains showed good capability of self-aggregation and co-aggregation with pathogenic bacteria. All yeast strains were able to survive the gastrointestinal conditions. In acidic conditions, the factors (strain vs. time) had interaction (P=0.0317), resulting in significant variation among the strains tested in the time periods analyzed. It was observed that there was also interaction (P=0.0062) in intestinal conditions, with an increased number of cells in the 12-hour period for all strains tested. In the adsorption test, the A8L2 strain was statistically more effective (P<0.005) for both AFB1 concentrations evaluated in this study (10 and 25ng/mL). Thus, it was observed that the strains of S. cerevisiae have potential probiotic and adsorbent of AFB1.(AU)

Objetivou-se, com esta pesquisa, avaliar in vitro o potencial probiótico e adsorvente de Saccharomyces cerevisiae para aflatoxina B1 em condições simuladas do trato intestinal de peixes. Foram utilizadas três cepas de leveduras, sendo duas provenientes de cervejaria: S. cerevisiae RC1 e S. cerevisiae RC3, e uma de ambiente de piscicultura: S. cerevisiae A8L2. As leveduras selecionadas foram submetidas aos seguintes testes in vitro: inibição homóloga, autoagregação, coagregação, atividade antibacteriana, viabilidade às condições gastrointestinais e adsorção de AFB1. Todas as estirpes de S. cerevisiae mostraram boa capacidade de autoagregação e coagregação com bactérias patogênicas. Todas as estirpes de levedura foram capazes de sobreviver às condições gastrointestinais. Em condições ácidas, os fatores (cepa x tempo) tiveram interação (P=0,0317), resultando em variações significativas entre as cepas testadas nos períodos de tempo analisados. Observou-se que também houve interação (P=0,0062) em condições intestinais, havendo um aumento do número de células no período de 12h para todas as cepas avaliadas. No ensaio de adsorção, a estirpe A8L2 foi a mais eficaz estatisticamente (P<0,005), para as duas concentrações de AFB1 avaliadas neste estudo (10 e 25ng. mL-1). Dessa forma, conclui-se que as cepas de Saccharomyces cerevisiae possuem potencial probiótico e adsorvente de AFB1.(AU)

Complexos enzimáticos sobre a energia metabolizável e digestibilidade dos nutrientes do milheto para frangos de corte / Enzyme complexes on metabolizable energy and nutrient digestibility of millet for broiler chickens

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de complexos enzimáticos sobre a energia metabolizável e o coeficiente de digestibilidade de nutrientes do milheto para frangos de corte. Quinhentos e setenta e seis frangos machos foram distribuídos em 36 gaiolas, com três tratamentos: T1 - composição de milheto sem complexo enzimático; T2 - composição de milheto com complexo enzimático (CES) e T3 - composição de milheto com complexo enzimático (CEV). Os tratamentos foram definidos com base em seis dietas (três dietas referências e três dietas testes). As dietas testes foram obtidas pela substituição de 40% da dieta referência por milheto inteiro, e a adição de enzimas consistiu de dois complexos enzimáticos: CES, constituído pelas enzimas fitase, protease, xilanase, ß-glucanase, celulase, amilase e pectinase; e CEV. constituído pelas enzimas protease, celulase e amilase. Na fase de 11 a 20 dias, a suplementação com o CEV reduziu os valores de EMA, EMAn e CDPB. A suplementação com CES melhorou o CDPB, e não houve efeito significativo para CDMS e CDEB. Na fase de 21 a 30 dias, houve menor aproveitamento da energia e dos nutrientes com as suplementações CES e CEV. Na fase de 31 a 40 dias, as suplementações reduziram os valores de EMA, EMAn, e o complexo CEV foi efetivo em aumentar o valor de CDPB. A inclusão dos complexos enzimáticos CES (fitase, protease, xilanase, ß-glucanase, celulase, amilase e pectinase) e CEV (protease, celulase e amilase) não favoreceu a utilização da energia do milheto, no entanto melhorou o coeficiente de digestibilidade da proteína do milheto nos períodos de 11 a 20 e de 31 a 40 dias de idade.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of enzymatic complexes on metabolizable energy and nutrient digestibility coefficient of millet for broilers chickens. 576 male chickens, were distributed in 36 cages with three treatments: T1 - millet composition without enzymatic complex; T2 - millet composition with enzymatic complex (ECS); and T3 - millet composition with enzymatic complex (ECV). The treatments were defined from six diets (3 reference diets and 3 test diets). The test diets were obtained from the substitution of 40% for reference diet by whole millet, and the enzyme addition consisted of two enzymatic complex, ECS constituted by phytase, protease, xylanase, ß-glucanase, cellulase, amylase and pectinase enzymes, and ECV constituted by protease, cellulase and amylase enzymes. In the 11 to 20 days phase, a supplementation with the ECV reduced the AME, AMEn and CDPB values, a ECS supplementation improved the CDPB, and there was no significant effect for CDMS and CDEB. In the 21 to 30 days phase, there were less profit of the energy and nutrients with ECS and ECV supplements. In the 31 to 40 days phase as supplements reduced the values of AME, AMEn, and the ECV complex was effective in increasing the value of CDPB. The inclusion of ECS enzymatic complexes, (phytase, protease, xylanase, ß-glucanase, cellulase, amylase and pectinase) and ECV (protease, cellulase and amylase), did not favor millet's energy utilization, however, favored the millet's protein digestibility coefficient on 11 to 20 and 31 to 40 periods.(AU)

Visceral fat measured by DXA is associated with increased risk of non-spine fractures in nonobese elderly women: a population-based prospective cohort analysis from the São Paulo Ageing & Health (SPAH) Study.

The present study investigates the relationship between visceral fat measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and the incidence of non-spine fractures in community-dwelling elderly women. We demonstrated a potential negative effect of visceral fat on bone health in nonobese women. INTRODUCTION: The protective effect of obesity on bone health has been questioned because visceral fat has been demonstrated to have a deleterious effect on bone. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of visceral fat measured by DXA with the incidence of non-spine fractures in community-dwelling elderly women. METHODS: This longitudinal prospective population-based cohort study evaluated 433 community-dwelling women aged 65 years or older. A specific clinical questionnaire, including personal history of a fragility fracture in non-spine osteoporotic sites, was administered at baseline and after an average of 4.3 years. All incidences of fragility fractures during the study period were confirmed by affected-site radiography. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was measured in the android region of a whole-body DXA scan. RESULTS: The mean age was 72.8 ± 4.7 years, and 28 incident non-spine osteoporotic fractures were identified after a mean follow-up time of 4.3 ± 0.8 years. According to the Lipschitz classification for nutritional status in the elderly, 38.6 % of women were nonobese (BMI ≤ 27 kg/m2) and 61.4 % were obese/overweight. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the relationship between VAT and non-spine fractures in elderly women. After adjusting for age, race, previous fractures, and BMD, VAT (mass, area, volume) had a significant association with the incidence of non-spine fractures only in nonobese elderly women (VAT mass: OR, 1.42 [95 % CI, 1.09-1.85; p = 0.010]; VAT area: OR, 1.19 [95 % CI, 1.05-1.36; p = 0.008]; VAT volume: OR, 1.40 [95 % CI, 1.09-1.80; p = 0.009]). CONCLUSION: This study suggests a potential negative effect of visceral adiposity on bone health in nonobese women.

Persistent hypovitaminosis D and loss of hip bone mineral density over time as additional risk factors for recurrent falls in a population-based prospective cohort of elderly persons living in the community. The São Paulo Ageing & Health (SPAH) Study.

UNLABELLED: We performed concomitant evaluation of clinical, laboratory, and bone mineral density (BMD) parameters as potential risk factors for falls in a population-based prospective cohort of older adults, since previous studies have focused mostly in clinical risk factors. Loss of hip BMD and persistent hypovitaminosis D were associated with recurrent falls in community-dwelling elderly. INTRODUCTION: Few studies have performed a concomitant evaluation of clinical data, laboratory bone parameters, and bone mineral density (BMD) to determine more accurately the contribution of each of these variables to risk of falls in elderly persons. We investigated the association between bone parameters and recurrent falls in a population-based prospective cohort of community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A total of 705 elderly individuals (448 women, 257 men) were evaluated with clinical data, BMD, and laboratory bone tests at baseline and after a mean follow-up of 4.3 ± 0.8 years. Individuals with recurrent falls (≥2 falls in the previous year from the date of the second evaluation) were considered chronic fallers. Logistic regression models were used to identify independent risk factors for recurrent falls. RESULTS: The frequency of chronic fallers was 16.5%. In multivariate analyses, risk factors for recurrent falls were visual impairment (odds ratio (OR) = 2.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.30-4.74, p = 0.006), use of psychotropic drugs (OR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.37-4.49, p = 0.003), clinical fracture (OR = 2.78, 95% CI 1.48-5.20, p = 0.001), persistently low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) (<20 ng/mL) (OR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.10-2.64, p = 0.016), and loss of total hip BMD during the study (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.17-1.25, p = 0.035 for each 4% decrease). CONCLUSIONS: In addition to traditional clinical risk factors for falls, loss of hip BMD and hypovitaminosis D were associated with recurrent falls in community-dwelling elderly persons. Thus, recognizing these factors is essential to preventing falls and improving the outcomes of this population.

Incidence and risk factors for osteoporotic vertebral fracture in low-income community-dwelling elderly: a population-based prospective cohort study in Brazil. The São Paulo Ageing & Health (SPAH) Study.

UNLABELLED: We ascertained the incidence and predictors of radiographic vertebral fracture in a Brazilian elderly cohort, since no data in this field have been reported in low-income countries. This is the first population-based study to demonstrate the high frequency of vertebral fracture in elderly Latin Americans. Age, prior fracture, BMD, and bone turnover were predictors of fracture. INTRODUCTION: Vertebral fractures are associated with increased future fracture risk and mortality. No data on incidence of osteoporotic vertebral fracture have been reported in low-income countries where the population's aging has been faster. Thus, we sought to describe the incidence and risk factors for radiographic vertebral fracture in a longitudinal prospective Brazilian population-based elderly cohort. METHODS: 707 older adults (449 women and 258 men) were evaluated with spinal radiographs obtained at baseline and after a mean follow-up of 4.3 ± 0.8 years. New vertebral fracture was defined as distinct alteration in the morphology of vertebrae resulting in higher grade of deformity on the second radiograph when compared to the baseline radiograph. Clinical questionnaire, bone mineral density (BMD), and laboratory tests were performed at baseline. Multivariate Poisson regression models were used to identify independent predictors of fracture. RESULTS: The age-standardized incidence of vertebral fracture was 40.3/1,000 person-years in women and 30.6/1,000 in men. In women, three models of risk factors for fracture were fitted: (1) age (relative risks (RR) 2.46, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.66-3.65), previous osteoporotic fracture (RR 1.65, 95 % CI 1.00-2.71), and lumbar spine BMD (RR 1.21, 95 % CI 1.03-1.41); (2) age (RR 2.25, 95 % CI 1.52-3.34) and femoral neck BMD (RR 1.42, 95 % CI 1.11-1.81); (3) age (RR 2.11, 95 % CI 1.41-3.15) and total hip BMD (RR 1.56, 95 % CI 1.21-2.0). In men, the highest quartile of cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTx) (RR 1.96, 95 % CI 0.98-3.91) and prior fracture (RR 2.10, 95 % CI 1.00-4.39) were predictors of new vertebral fracture. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first population-based study to ascertain the incidence of vertebral fracture in elderly Latin Americans, confirming the high frequency of the disorder. Age, prior fracture, BMD, and bone turnover were predictors of the short-term incidence of vertebral fracture.

Prevalence of sarcopenia and associated risk factors by two diagnostic criteria in community-dwelling older men: the São Paulo Ageing & Health Study (SPAH).

UNLABELLED: Sarcopenia is an aging syndrome that can be characterized by many criteria adjusted or not by fat mass. This study suggested that the optimal criteria should be selected according to body mass index (BMI) in older men and identified age, BMI, race, smoking, physical activity, hip bone mineral density (BMD) as risk factors for this syndrome. INTRODUCTION: This study aims to analyze the prevalence of sarcopenia and associated risk factors using appendicular skeletal mass (ASM)/height(2) and ASM adjusted for total fat mass criteria in older men from community. METHODS: Three hundred ninety-nine men were included and answered a questionnaire about lifestyle and medical history. Individuals were classified by their BMI using the classification adjusted by age. Body composition and bone mineral density were measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Sarcopenia was classified according to both criteria. Logistic regression models were used to analyze risk factors associated with sarcopenia. RESULTS: The mean BMI was 26.46 kg/m(2): 12.5 % underweight, 43.6 % normal, and 43.9 % overweight/obese. Fifty-four (13.5 %) were considered sarcopenic by ASM/height(2) and 79 (19.8 %) by ASM adjusted for fat (p = 0.001). Fifty-one (12.8 %) individuals had discordant sarcopenia classification: 13 were classified only by ASM/height(2) and 38 only by ASM adjusted for fat. Of the 13 subjects classified as sarcopenic only by ASM/height(2), 84.6 % (11/13) were underweight and solely one (7.7 %) was considered overweight/obese. In contrast, of those 38 older men classified as sarcopenic only by ASM adjusted for fat, none were underweight and 53 % (20/38) were overweight/obese. Subjects classified as sarcopenic according to both criteria had the same risk factors in the final model analyses (age, BMI, race, smoking, physical activity, hip BMD; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study suggested that the optimal criteria for sarcopenia should be selected according to BMI in community-dwelling older men.

Hypercholesterolemia as a risk factor for depressive disorder?

AIMS: Epidemiological findings demonstrated that increased plasma cholesterol levels are frequently observed in depressive patients. In this regard, there is enhancing evidence that hypercholesterolemia is associated with impairment of brain function. Recently, we demonstrated that low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (LDLr(-/-)) mice- a widely used rodent model of familial hypercholesterolemia - exhibited memory deficits and cortico-cerebral mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, we aimed to assess the hypercholesterolemic mice in predictive tasks for depressive-like behavior. METHODS: Adult wild type C57BL/6 and LDLr (-/-) mice were evaluated in two tests for depressive like behavior, the splash test and forced swimming test. In addition, the activity of monoamine oxidase isoforms and the mRNA levels of hemeoxygenase-1 were assessed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of C57BL/6 and LDLr (-/-) mice. Finally, the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) permeability was investigated using the AQP-4 immunofluorescence staining in the mice hippocampus. RESULTS: The LDLr (-/-) mice showed a significant reduction in the grooming time in the splash test and increased immobility time in the forced swimming test, and both parameters were reversed by fluoxetine antidepressant treatment (10mg/kg, 7 days, o.g.). Interestingly, the depressive like behavior of LDLr (-/-) mice was associated with increased activity of monoamine oxidase A, decreased hemeoxygenase-1 mRNA levels and increase of BBB permeability in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these data provide new evidence that hypercholesterolemia could trigger brain alterations involved in depressive disorders.

Discriminating sarcopenia in community-dwelling older women with high frequency of overweight/obesity: the São Paulo Ageing & Health Study (SPAH).

SUMMARY: The criteria most used for the definition of sarcopenia, those based on the ratio between the appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) and the square of the height (h(2)) underestimate prevalence in overweight/obese people whereas another criteria consider ASM adjusted for total fat mass. We have shown that ASM adjusted for fat seems to be more appropriate for sarcopenia diagnosis. INTRODUCTION: Since the prevalence of overweight and obesity is a growing public health issue, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors associated with sarcopenia, based on these two criteria, among older women. METHODS: Six hundred eleven community-dwelling women were evaluated by specific questionnaire including clinical data. Body composition and bone mineral density were evaluated by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors independently related to sarcopenia by ASM/h(2) and ASM adjusted for total fat mass criteria. RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight/obesity was high (74.3 %). The frequency of sarcopenia was lower using the criteria of ASM/h(2) (3.7 %) than ASM adjusted for fat (19.9 %) (P < 0.0001). We also note that less than 5 %(1/23) of sarcopenic women, according to ASM/h(2), had overweight/obesity, whereas 60 % (74/122) of sarcopenic women by ASM adjusted for fat had this complication. Using ASM/h(2), the associated factors observed in regression models were femoral neck T-score (OR = 1.90; 95 % CI 1.06-3.41; P = 0.03) and current alcohol intake (OR = 4.13, 95 % CI 1.18-14.45, P = 0.03). In contrast, we have identified that creatinine (OR = 0.21; 95 % CI 0.07-0.63; P = 0.005) and the White race (OR = 1.81; 95 % CI 1.15-2.84; P = 0.01) showed a significant association with sarcopenia using ASM adjusted for fat. CONCLUSIONS: In women with overweight/obesity, ASM adjusted for fat seems to be the more appropriate criteria for sarcopenia diagnosis. This finding has relevant public health implications, considering the high prevalence of overweight/obesity in older women.

Biodisponibilidade do P e digestibilidade aparente do N em dietas de suínos suplementadas com níveis crescentes de fitase, balanceadas de acordo com o conceito de proteína ideal / Phosphorus bioavailability and nitrogen apparent digestibility in diets supplemented with phytase increasing level, balanced according to the ideal protein concept

Avaliaram-se o efeito de inclusão crescente de fitase (unidade de fitase - UF) em dietas para suínos na fase de crescimento pela técnica de diluição isotópica. Foram utilizados 20 suínos, machos castrados, em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos - 0, 250, 500, 750 e 1000UF/kg da ração - e quatro repetições. Os animais foram alojados em gaiolas metabólicas por 17 dias, sendo 10 dias para adaptação e sete dias para coleta de fezes e urina. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas por cinco dias. No primeiro dia da fase experimental, cada animal recebeu por via endovenosa em solução radioativa com 7,4MBq de 32P. A Quantum Phytase foi eficiente em disponibilizar o P fítico para suínos em crescimento até 750UF/kg de dieta, sendo que 500UF/kg da ração foi o indicado para dietas à base de milho e farelo de soja, formuladas de acordo com o conceito de proteína ideal.

The effects of increasing levels of phytase (phytase units - PU) for pigs, using the isotopic dilution technique, were evaluated on 20 crossbred barrows in a randomized block design experiment, with five treatments, 0, 250, 500, 750 and 1000PUkg diet, and four replicates. The animals were kept in metabolic cages for a 10-day adaptation period and seven days for total collection of feces and urine. Blood samples were taken for five days. On the first day of the collection period each animal was injected intravenously with 7.4 MBq 32P. Phytase was efficient to improve the availability of the P phytate for pigs until the level of 750 PU/kg diet. The level of 500 PU/kg diet is indicated for diets based on soybean meal and corn, formulated according to the concept of ideal protein.

Resíduo desidratado de cervejaria para suínos em terminação / Dehydrated residue of brewery for finishing swine

Determinaram-se os coeficientes de digestibilidade e de metabolizabilidade da matéria seca (MS), da energia bruta (EB), da proteína bruta (PB) e da fibra bruta (FB) e as energias digestível e metabolizável do resíduo desidratado de cervejaria (RDC) para suínos na fase de terminação, e avaliaram-se o desempenho e as características da carcaça desses animais, alimentados com dietas que continham porcentagens de inclusão do RDC - 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20 por cento -, bem como estudaram-se os parâmetros fisiológicos. No ensaio de digestibilidade, foram utilizados 12 leitões, machos, com média de peso de 57,3±5,6kg. Seis deles receberam a ração referência, à base de milho e farelo de soja, e seis a ração teste. No ensaio de desempenho, foram utilizados 40 leitões, com média de peso de 60,8±1,98kg. Os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente da MS, EB, PB e FB foram, respectivamente, de 53,9 por cento, 73,9 por cento, 53,3 por cento e 62,5 por cento, e os valores das energias digestível e metabolizável do RDC de 2.628 e 2.623kcal/kg, respectivamente. A inclusão de RDC até a proporção de 20 por cento não influenciou os parâmetros de desempenho e fisiológicos, nem as características de carcaça de suínos em terminação.

The digestibility and metabolizability coefficients of the dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) of the dehydrated residue of brewery (DRB) for swine in termination were determined. Performance and carcass characteristics of animals fed with diets containing 5 levels of inclusion of DRB (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 percent) were evaluated as well as the physiologic parameters. In the digestibility assay 12 male pigs weighing 57.3±5.6kg were used. Six pigs were fed reference diets, based on corn and soybean meals, and six pigs were fed a test diet. In the performance study, 40 pigs weighing 60.8±1.98kg were used. Apparent digestibility coefficients for the DM, GE, CP and CF were 53.9 percent, 73.9 percent, 53.3 percent and 62.5 percent, respectively. The values of the digestible and metabolizable energy of the DRB were 2,628 kcal/kg and 2,623kcal/kg respectively. The inclusion of up to 20 percent of DRB in diets did not interfere in performance, carcass characteristics and physiologic parameters of swine in termination.

Prevalence and risk factors of radiographic vertebral fracture in Brazilian community-dwelling elderly.

UNLABELLED: The prevalence and risk factors of radiographic vertebral fracture were determined among Brazilian community-dwelling elderly. Vertebral fractures were a common condition in this elderly population, and lower hip bone mineral density was a significant risk factor for vertebral fractures in both genders. INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of radiographic vertebral fracture and investigate factors associated with this condition in Brazilian community-dwelling elderly. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 943 elderly subjects (561 women and 382 men) living in São Paulo, Brazil. Thoracic and lumbar spine radiographs were obtained, and vertebral fractures were evaluated using Genant's semiquantitative method. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry, and bone biochemical markers were also evaluated. Female and male subjects were analyzed independently, and each gender was divided into two groups based on whether vertebral fractures were present. RESULTS: The prevalence of vertebral fracture was 27.5% (95% CI 23.8-31.1) in women and 31.8% in men (95% CI 27.1-36.5) (P = 0.116). Cox regression analyses using variables that were significant in the univariate analysis showed that age (prevalence ratio = 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06; p = 0.019) and total femur BMD (PR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.08-0.98; p = 0.048) were independent factors in predicting vertebral fracture for the female group. In the male group, Cox regression analyses demonstrated that femoral neck BMD (PR = 0.26, 95% CI 0.07-0.98; p = 0.046) was an independent parameter in predicting vertebral fractures. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that radiographic vertebral fractures are common in Brazilian community-dwelling elderly and that a low hip BMD was an important risk factor for this condition in both genders. Age was also significantly correlated with the presence of vertebral fractures in women.

Premature coronary artery calcification is associated with disease duration and bone mineral density in young female systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Our objective was to evaluate the relevance of traditional and disease-related cardiovascular risk factors and of bone mineral density for premature coronary artery calcification in young patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Ninety-four female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with disease durations >5 years and <45 years were consecutively selected. Cardiovascular risks (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, dyslipoproteinemia, smoking, family history, body mass index, ovarian and renal insufficiency) and systemic lupus erythematosus-related risk factors (disease duration, ACR criteria, modified SLICC/ ACR, SLEDAI and treatment) were evaluated. Bone mineral density was assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Coronary artery calcification was determined by computed tomography. Coronary artery calcification was identified in 12 (12.7%) patients and was associated with a higher frequency of patients with cardiovascular risks (p = 0.001), higher number of cardiovascular risks (p = 0.002), age (p = 0.025), disease duration (p = 0.011) and SLICC (p=0.011). Individual analysis of cardiovascular risks demonstrated that menopause (p = 0.036), dyslipidemia (p = 0.003) and hypertension (p = 0.006) were significantly associated with coronary artery calcification. In addition, coronary artery calcification was associated with a lower whole body bone mineral density (p = 0.013). Multiple logistic regression analysis using cardiovascular risks, age, disease duration, SLICC and whole body bone mineral density revealed that only disease duration (p = 0.038) and whole body bone mineral density (p = 0.021) remained significant for coronary artery calcification. In conclusion, we found that disease duration and decreased bone mineral density are independent predictors for premature coronary calcification in young women with systemic lupus erythematosus, suggesting a common underlying mechanism.

Adaptabilidade climática de caprinos Saanen e Azul no Meio-Norte do Brasil / Climatic adaptability of Saanen and Azul goats in Brazilian Middle-North

A adaptabilidade de caprinos de dois grupos genéticos, Saanen e Azul, às condições climáticas do Meio-Norte do Brasil foi avaliada por meio dos testes de Ibéria, Benezra e Rainsby. Nos dois primeiros, foram utilizadas sete fêmeas de cada grupo racial e, no terceiro, quatro fêmeas de cada grupo. Foram realizadas quatro coletas de dados em cada período (chuvoso e seco) de 2005. Foi utilizado delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em fatorial 2x2 (duas raças e dois períodos). Os valores do coeficiente de tolerância ao calor do teste de Ibéria no período seco diferiram entre os grupos (P<0,05) (Saanen = 97,65 e Azul = 94,31). Houve diferença entre grupos (P<0,05) quanto ao coeficiente de adaptabilidade 1 do teste de Benezra, nos dois períodos (chuvoso: Saanen = 5,13 e Azul = 3,26; seco: Saanen = 5,86 e Azul = 2,87). No teste de Rainsby, no grupo Azul, houve o retorno à temperatura de repouso nos dois períodos. Na Saanen, no período no seco, 100 minutos não foram suficientes para o retorno à temperatura de repouso. O grupo racial Azul mostrou-se mais adaptado às condições do Meio-Norte.

This study was undertaken to evaluate Saanen and Azul goats' adaptability to the Brazilian Middle-North region, based on adaptation indexes (Iberia, Benezra and Rainsby tests). A totall of seven and four females, respectively, of each group were used in two tests and four collections were performed during the rainy and dry periods of 2005 year. A completely randomized experimental design in a 2 x 2 (2 groups x 2 period) factorial treatment combination was used. Significant difference between groups (Saanen = 97.65 and Azul = 94.31) was observed for heat-tolerance coefficient (Iberia) during the dry period (P<.05). Significant differences between groups (P<0.05) were also observed for adaptability, coefficient 1 (Benezra) for both rainy (Saanen = 5.13 and Azul = 3.26) and dry periods (Saanen = 5.86 and Azul = 2.87). Based on Rainsby test, Azul goats returned to rest temperature in both periods. During the dry period 100 minutes were not enough for Saanen goats return to rest temperature. Azul goats showed higher adaptability to environment conditions of the Brazilian Middle-North region.

A model on biological flow of phosphorus in growing pigs / Modelo do fluxo do fósforo em suínos na fase de crescimento

Ten crossbred barrows weighting 20kg were allocated in five groups fed and on diets consisted of different total phosphorus (P) levels: 0.30 percent, 0.40 percent, 0.51 percent, 0.65 percent, and 0.73 percent. The animals were intravenously injected 7.4MBq of radioactive P (32P) and after seven days they were slaughtered for further analysis. The evaluated parameters were intake, excretion, specific activities, and flow of P in compartments (1-gut, 2-blood, 3-bone, and 4-soft tissue). Besides fecal losses, the kidneys played an import role in P regulation. The flows of P from tissue and gut to the blood were affected by P intake.

Foram usados 10 leitões machos castrados com média de peso vivo de 20kg, alojados em gaiolas metabólicas. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso e os tratamentos consistiram em níveis de fósforo (P) nas dietas: 0,30; 0,40; 0,51; 0,65 e 0,73 por cento. Os animais receberam injeção de 7,4 MBq de radiofósforo (32P) e após sete dias foram abatidos para posteriores análises. As variáveis avaliadas foram: ingestão, excreção, atividades específicas e fluxo de P nos compartimentos (1-trato digestivo, 2-corrente sanguínea, 3-tecidos moles e 4-ossos). Além das excreções fecais, os rins também representaram uma rota importante para a excreção do P. O fluxo de P dos tecidos e trato digestivo para o sangue não foi afetado pelo consumo de P. O modelo proposto foi eficiente para avaliar o fluxo de P.

Modelos matemáticos para o estudo do fluxo biológico do fósforo em suínos alimentados com dietas suplementadas com níveis crescentes de fitase / Mathematical models for the study of the biological flow of phosphorus in pigs fed with diets containing increasing levels of phytase

A pesquisa foi realizada para avaliar o fluxo biológico do fósforo entre os compartimentos, fisiológicos ou anatômicos, de suínos mantidos em dietas que continham níveis crescentes de fitase, usando o P-32 como traçador. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, sendo os tratamentos constituídos por níveis de enzima fitase, 253, 759, 1265 e 1748 UF/kg, nas dietas. As variáveis avaliadas foram: ingestão, excreção, atividades específicas e fluxo de P nos compartimentos (trato digestivo, corrente sanguínea, tecidos moles e ossos). A enzima fitase não interferiu nas excreções fecais e urinárias, nas atividades específicas, na incorporação e na reabsorção de P nos ossos e nos tecidos moles e no fluxo bidirecional do trato digestivo e na corrente sanguínea, mas afetou linearmente a absorção e a retenção nos ossos. As respostas mais evidentes dos efeitos da adição da fitase são observadas nos níveis mais baixos.

The biological flow of P was evaluated among the physiologic or the anatomical compartments of pigs fed diets with increasing phytase levels, using P-32 as tracer. The experimental design was completely randomized. Treatments consisted of phytase levels in diets (253, 759, 1265, and 1748UF/kg). The evaluated variables were: feed intake, excretion, specific activities and flow of P in the compartments (gut, blood, bone, and soft tissus). Phytase level did not interfere with fecal and urinary excretion, specific activities, incorporation and resorption of bone, and soft tissue P and in the bidirectional flow of gut and blood, but linearly affected P absorption and bone P retention. The best response was observed with the lowest phytase levels.

Bone metabolism and vascular calcification.

Osteoporosis and atherosclerosis are chronic degenerative diseases which have been considered to be independent and whose common characteristic is increasing incidence with age. At present, growing evidence indicates the existence of a correlation between cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, irrespective of age. The morbidity and mortality of osteoporosis is mainly related to the occurrence of fractures. Atherosclerosis shows a high rate of morbidity and especially mortality because of its clinical repercussions such as angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral vascular insufficiency. Atherosclerotic disease is characterized by the accumulation of lipid material in the arterial wall resulting from autoimmune and inflammatory mechanisms. More than 90% of these fatty plaques undergo calcification. The correlation between osteoporosis and atherosclerosis is being established by studies of the underlying physiopathological mechanisms, which seem to coincide in many biochemical pathways, and of the risk factors for vascular disease, which have also been associated with a higher incidence of low-bone mineral density. In addition, there is evidence indicating an action of antiresorptive drugs on the reduction of cardiovascular risks and the effect of statins, antihypertensives and insulin on bone mass increase. The mechanism of arterial calcification resembles the process of osteogenesis, involving various cells, proteins and cytokines that lead to tissue mineralization. The authors review the factors responsible for atherosclerotic disease that correlate with low-bone mineral density.

Bone metabolism and vascular calcification

Osteoporosis and atherosclerosis are chronic degenerative diseases which have been considered to be independent and whose common characteristic is increasing incidence with age. At present, growing evidence indicates the existence of a correlation between cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, irrespective of age. The morbidity and mortality of osteoporosis is mainly related to the occurrence of fractures. Atherosclerosis shows a high rate of morbidity and especially mortality because of its clinical repercussions such as angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral vascular insufficiency. Atherosclerotic disease is characterized by the accumulation of lipid material in the arterial wall resulting from autoimmune and inflammatory mechanisms. More than 90 percent of these fatty plaques undergo calcification. The correlation between osteoporosis and atherosclerosis is being established by studies of the underlying physiopathological mechanisms, which seem to coincide in many biochemical pathways, and of the risk factors for vascular disease, which have also been associated with a higher incidence of low-bone mineral density. In addition, there is evidence indicating an action of antiresorptive drugs on the reduction of cardiovascular risks and the effect of statins, antihypertensives and insulin on bone mass increase. The mechanism of arterial calcification resembles the process of osteogenesis, involving various cells, proteins and cytokines that lead to tissue mineralization. The authors review the factors responsible for atherosclerotic disease that correlate with low-bone mineral density.

Composição química de diferentes fontes de fósforo e deposição de metais pesados em tecidos de suínos / Chemical composition of different phosphorus sources and heavy metal deposition in tissues of swines

Foram utilizados 112 leitões com peso inicial de 28,68kg, distribuídos em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 8 2 (oito tratamentos x dois sexos), sete repetições e dois animais por baia. As dietas foram formuladas com base no fósforo total, sendo estas à base de milho e de farelo de soja. O fósforo foi suplementado utilizando-se os fosfatos: bicálcico (FBC); monobicálcico (MBC); supertriplo (ST); supersimples (SS); rocha Catalão (ROCHA); mistura de fontes (MIST) e ácido fosfórico (AcF); e dieta-controle, sem o fósforo suplementar (CONT). Avaliou-se previamente a composição química de amostras de fontes de fósforo disponíveis no mercado. Os fosfatos MBC, FBC e AcF apresentaram baixo nível de contaminação por metais pesados. Observou-se variação no teor de metais pesados entre as marcas comerciais de supertriplo. O consumo do fosfato resultou em acúmulo de cobre nos músculos. A dieta-controle provocou acúmulo de chumbo e zinco no fígado, e a mistura de fontes e supertriplo ocasionou acúmulo de cádmio no fígado. A utilização de fontes alternativas de fósforo menos elaboradas influenciou a deposição de minerais no fígado e nos músculos dos suínos.

Effects of phosphorus intake on phosphorus flow in growing pigs: application and comparison of two models.

A comparison of the models of Vitti et al. (2000, J. Anim. Sci. 78, 2706-2712) and Fernández (1995c, Livest. Prod. Sci. 41, 255-261) was carried out using two data sets on growing pigs as input. The two models compared were based on similar basic principles, although their aims and calculations differed. The Vitti model employs the rate:state formalism and describes phosphorus (P) flow between four pools representing P content in gut, blood, bone and soft tissue in growing goats. The Fernández model describes flow and fractional recirculation between P pools in gut, blood and bone in growing pigs. The results from both models showed similar trends for P absorption from gut to blood and net retention in bone with increasing P intake, with the exception of the 65 kg results from Date Set 2 calculated using the Fernández model. Endogenous loss from blood back to gut increased faster with increasing P intake in the Fernández than in the Vitti model for Data Set 1. However, for Data Set 2, endogenous loss increased with increasing P intake using the Vitti model, but decreased when calculated using the Fernández model. Incorporation of P into bone was not influenced by intake in the Fernández model, while in the Vitti model there was an increasing trend. The Fernández model produced a pattern of decreasing resorption in bone with increasing P intake, with one of the data sets, which was not observed when using the Vitti model. The pigs maintained their P homeostasis in blood by regulation of P excretion in urine.