Aryl hydrocarbon receptor suppresses STING-mediated type I IFN expression in triple-negative breast cancer.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive types of cancer. Despite decades of intense investigation, treatment options remain limited, and rapid recurrence with distant metastases remains a significant challenge. Cancer cell-intrinsic production of cytokines such as type I interferons (IFN-I) is a known potent modulator of response to therapy in many cancers, including TNBC, and can influence therapeutic outcome. Here, we report that, in TNBC systems, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) suppresses IFN-I expression via inhibition of STImulator of Interferon Genes (STING), a key mediator of interferon production. Intratumoral STING activity is essential in mediating the efficacy of PARP inhibitors (PARPi) which are used in the treatment of cancers harboring BRCA1 deficiency. We find that, in TNBC cells, PARPi treatment activates AhR in a BRCA1 deficiency-dependent manner, thus suggesting the presence of a negative feedback loop aimed at modulating PARPi efficacy. Importantly, our results indicate that the combined inhibition of PARP and AhR is superior in elevating IFN-I expression as compared to PARPi-alone. Thus, AhR inhibition may allow for enhanced IFN-I production upon PARPi in BRCA1-deficient breast cancers, most of which are of TNBC origin, and may represent a therapeutically viable strategy to enhance PARPi efficacy.

Ruminal modulator additive effect of Stryphnodendron rotundifolium bark in feedlot lambs.

The study aimed to evaluate the inclusion effects of Stryphnodendron rotundifolium (barbatimão) extracts in substitution of the lasalocid sodium on the ingestive behaviour, intake, ruminal parameters, and digestibility of feedlot lambs. Twenty-four pantaneiro lambs were used, with an average age of 150 ± 4.59 days and an initial body weight of 21.2 ± 3.63 kg. The lambs were distributed in three treatments in an experimental design with randomized blocks. The treatments correspond to the additive supplements: LAS (0.019 g of lasalocid sodium/lamb/d); DGB (1.50 g of barbatimão dried ground bark/lamb/d); DHE (0.30 g of barbatimão dry hydroalcoholic extract/lamb/d). The DHE increased 59.74 min in the time spent for ingestion per day, resulting in an efficiency reduction of dry matter (DM) ingestion (127 g of DM/h of feed). There was a reduction of 1.8 mg/dL in the ammoniacal nitrogen concentration with extract supplementation compared to LAS. The DGB reduced total volatile fatty acids by 48.9% compared to the control treatment. The inclusion of barbatimão extracts (DGB and DHE) reduced 12.05% of ruminal butyrate content. The supplementation of barbatimão extracts replacing lasalocid sodium in the diet of feedlot lambs did not affect intake and caused small changes on ingestive behaviour.

Topiramate alters the gut microbiome to aid in its anti-seizure effect.

Introduction: There is a growing interest in the role of the gut microbiota in epilepsy, however, it is unclear if anti-seizure medications (ASMs) play a role in the gut-brain axis. To test this, we investigated the impact of the ASM topiramate on the gut microbiome of mice. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were administered topiramate in their drinking water for 5 weeks. 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was performed on fecal samples collected at 5 weeks. Analysis of alpha diversity, beta diversity, and differential abundance were performed. Cecal contents were analyzed for short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) composition. Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-kindling was performed in saline, topiramate, Lactobacillus johnsonii, and topiramate and Lactobacillus johnsonii treated mice. Mice received PTZ injection every other day for a total of twelve injections, seizure activity was video monitored for 30 minutes and scored. Results and discussion: Our study revealed that topiramate ingestion significantly increased Lactobacillus johnsonii in the gut microbiome of naïve mice. Treatment with topiramate and Lactobacillus johnsonii together, but not alone, reduced susceptibility to PTZ-induced seizures. Co-treatment also significantly increased the percent of butyrate and the abundance of butyrate-producing family Lachnospiraceae in the gut, and elevated the GABA/glutamate ratio in the cortex. Our results demonstrate that an ASM can alter the gut microbiome to aid in their anti-seizure effect in vivo and suggest the potential of the probiotic Lactobacillus johnsonii as an adjunct therapy with topiramate in reducing seizure susceptibility.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor is a tumor promoter in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cells through suppression of differentiation.

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. MYCN amplification is detected in almost half of high-risk cases and is associated with poorly differentiated tumors, poor patient prognosis and poor response to therapy, including retinoids. We identify the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) as a transcription factor promoting the growth and suppressing the differentiation of MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma. A neuroblastoma specific AhR transcriptional signature reveals an inverse correlation of AhR activity with patients' outcome, suggesting AhR activity is critical for disease progression. AhR modulates chromatin structures, reducing accessibility to regions responsive to retinoic acid. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of AhR results in induction of differentiation. Importantly, AhR antagonism with clofazimine synergizes with retinoic acid in inducing differentiation both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we propose AhR as a target for MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma and that its antagonism, combined with current standard-of-care, may result in a more durable response in patients.

Effects of feeding rumen-protected linseed fat to postpartum dairy cows on plasma n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations and metabolic and reproductive parameters.

High-yielding dairy cows experience a negative energy balance and inflammatory status during the transition period. Fat supplementation increases diet energy density, and plasma n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been proposed to improve immune function. This study tested the hypothesis that dietary supplementation with a rumen-protected and n-3 PUFA-enriched fat could ameliorate both the energetic deficit and immune status of postpartum high-yielding dairy cows, improving overall health and reproductive efficiency. At 11 d in milk (DIM), cows were randomly allocated to groups (1) n-3 PUFA (n = 29), supplemented with encapsulated linseed oil supplying additional up to 64 g/d (mean 25 ± 4 g/d) of α-linolenic acid (ALA), or (2) control (n = 31), supplemented with hydrogenated palm oil without ALA content. Fat supplements of the n-3 PUFA and control groups were available through an automated, off-parlor feeding system, and intake depended on the cow's feeding behavior. Plasma ALA concentrations were higher in n-3 PUFA than control cows, following a linear relation with supplement ingestion, resulting in a lower n-6/n-3 ratio in plasma. Metabolic parameters (body condition score and glucose and ß-hydroxybutyric acid blood concentrations) were unaffected, but milk yield improved with increased intake of fat supplements. Plasma total adiponectin concentrations were negatively correlated with ingestion of n-3 PUFA-enriched fat supplement, following a linear relation with intake. Conception rate to first AI increased with higher intake of both fats, but a decrease of calving-to-conception interval occurred only in n-3 PUFA cows. Postpartum ovarian activity and endometrial inflammatory status at 45 DIM were unaffected. In conclusion, this study evinced a positive linear relation between rumen-protected linseed fat intake and plasma n-3 PUFA concentrations, which modulated adiponectin expression and improved reproductive parameters.

Effects of exogenous α-amylases, glucoamylases, and proteases on ruminal in vitro dry matter and starch digestibility, gas production, and volatile fatty acids of mature dent corn grain.

Two separate experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of incremental doses of 10 exogenous endo-acting α-amylase and exo-acting glucoamylase; 1LAT (bacterial α-amylase), 2AK, 3AC, 4Cs4, 5Trga, 6Afuga, 7Fvga, and 10Tg (fungal α-amylases, glucoamylases, and α-glucosidase), 8Star and 9Syn (fungal amylase-mixtures; experiment 1) and three exogenous proteases; 11P14L, 12P7L, and 13P30L (bacterial proteases; experiment 2) on in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in vitro starch digestibility (IVSD) of mature dent corn grain using a batch culture system. Incremental doses of the exogenous enzymes (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 mg/g of dried substrate) were applied directly to the substrate (0.5 g of ground corn, 4 mm) in sextuplicate (experiment 1) or quadruplicate (experiment 2) within F57 filter bags, which were incubated at 39 °C in buffered rumen fluid for 7 h. Rumen fluid was collected 2-3 h after the morning feeding from three lactating dairy cows and pooled. Cows were consuming a midlactation total mixed ration (TMR; 1.60 Mcal/kg DM and 15.4%; net energy of lactation and crude protein, respectively). Three independent runs were carried out for each experiment. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design using run as the blocking factor. Dose was used as a fixed factor while run was considered a random factor. Linear, quadratic, and cubic orthogonal contrasts were also tested. In experiment 1, enzymes 2AK, 3AC, and 10Tg did not increase (P > 0.10) IVDMD and IVSD, whereas 0.25 mg of enzymes 1LAT, 5Trga, and 8Star increased (P < 0.01) IVDMD by 23%, 47%, and 62% and IVSD by 35%, 41%, and 58%, respectively, compared with the control. Enzymes 4Cs4, 6Afuga, 7Fvga, and 9Syn linearly increased IVDMD and IVSD (P < 0.01). Greatest increases in IVDMD (82.9%) and IVSD (85.9%) resulted with 1 mg of 6Afuga compared to control. In experiment 2, the lowest dose of exogenous proteases 11P14L and 12P7L increased (P < 0.01) IVDMD by 98% and 87% and IVSD by 57% and 64%, respectively, whereas the highest dose of 13P30L increased (P = 0.02) IVDMD by 44.8% and IVSD by 30%, relative to the control. In conclusion, IVSD and IVDMD were increased by one α-amylase, certain glucoamylases, and all proteases tested, with the glucoamylase 6Afuga in experiment 1 and the neutral protease 12P7L in experiment 2, increasing IVDMD and IVSD to the greater extents. Future in vivo studies are required to validate these findings before these enzyme additives can be recommended for improving the digestibility of mature dent corn grain.

Composition and microbiological quality of refrigerated raw milk in two seasons of the year in Santa Helena, Western Paraná / Composição e qualidade microbiológica do leite cru refrigerado em duas estações do ano em Santa Helena, oeste do Paraná / Composición y calidad microbiológica de la leche cruda refrigerada en dos estaciones del año en Santa Helena, oeste de Paraná

This study aimed at quantifying the occurrence of proteolytic psychotropic microorganisms and total coliforms in refrigerated raw milk, in addition to assessing the quality through its physical-chemical composition. The samples were collected in 10 dairy farms in the municipality of Santa Helena ­ Western Paraná. Two collections were made, one during the spring and the other during the summer. Samples of refrigerated raw milk were carried out directly from the cooling tank, aseptically, packed in sterile bottles and transported under isothermal conditions (± 4 ºC) to the laboratory where the physical-chemical composition and microbial populations were determined. The levels of fat had great amplitude between the seasons, being higher in the summer, while there was no variation for the contents of protein, lactose, minerals, and non-fat solids. The total coliform count did not differ between seasons. The values obtained for proteolytic psychotropic counts were higher in the summer. A significant positive correlation was found between the total coliform counts, the proteolytic psychotropic counts (r=0.73), the levels of protein (r=0.45), non-fat solids (r=0.45), and minerals (r=0.46). Also, the proteolytic psychotropic counts showed a positive correlation with the cryoscopic index. The milk components met the requirements of NI76. The quality of refrigerated raw milk in the municipality of Santa Helena, Western Paraná was not satisfactory for total coliforms, due to its high incidence, indicating the need for good practices in milking management. Proteolytic psychotropic bacteria presented low proliferation, thus not affecting milk quality.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo quantificar a ocorrência de microrganismos psicrotróficos proteolíticos e de coliformes totais em leite cru refrigerado além de avaliar a qualidade por meio da sua composição físico-química. As amostras foram coletadas em 10 propriedades leiteiras no município de Santa Helena ­ Oeste do Paraná. Foram realizadas duas coletas, uma durante a primavera e outra no verão. As amostragens do leite cru refrigerado foram realizadas diretamente no tanque de resfriamento, de forma asséptica, acondicionado em frascos esterilizados e transportado sob condições isotérmicas (± 4ºC) ao laboratório onde foram determinadas a composição físico-química e as populações microbianas. Os teores de gordura tiveram grande amplitude entre as estações do ano, sendo superior no verão, enquanto que não houve variação para os teores de proteína, lactose, minerais e sólidos desengordurados. A contagem de coliformes totais não diferiu entre as estações. Os valores obtidos para contagens de psicrotróficos proteolíticos foram superiores no verão. Foi constatada correlação significativa positiva entre as contagens de coliformes totais com as contagens de psicrotróficos proteolíticos (r=0,73) e os teores de proteína (r=0,45), sólidos desengordurados (r=0,45) e minerais (r=0,46). Além disto, as contagens de psicrotróficos proteolíticos apresentaram correlação positiva com o índice crioscópico. Os componentes do leite atenderam as exigências da IN76. A qualidade do leite cru refrigerado no município de Santa Helena, Oeste do Paraná não foi satisfatória em relação aos coliformes totais, devido sua alta incidência, indicando a necessidade de boas práticas no manejo de ordenha. As bactérias psicrotróficas proteolíticas tiveram baixa proliferação, não afetando a qualidade do leite.(AU)

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo cuantificar la ocurrencia de microorganismos psicrotróficos proteolíticos y de coliformes totales en leche cruda refrigerada, además de evaluar la calidad a través de su composición fisicoquímica. Las muestras fueron recolectadas en 10 granjas lecheras del municipio de Santa Helena ­ Oeste de Paraná. Se realizaron dos colecciones, una en primavera y otra en verano. Las muestras de leche cruda enfriada se realizaron directamente en el tanque de enfriamiento, de forma aséptica, se empacaron en botellas estériles y se transportaron en condiciones isotérmicas (± 4ºC) al laboratorio donde se determinó la composición fisicoquímica y las poblaciones microbianas. Los niveles de grasa tuvieron gran amplitud entre las estaciones, siendo más altos en verano, mientras que no hubo variación para los contenidos de proteínas, lactosa, minerales y sólidos desgrasados. El recuento total de coliformes no difirió entre temporadas. Los valores obtenidos para los recuentos de psicotrópicos proteolíticos fueron mayores en verano. Se encontró una correlación positiva significativa entre los recuentos de coliformes totales y los recuentos de psicrótroficos proteolíticos (r=0.73) y los niveles de proteínas (r=0.45), sólidos desgrasados (r=0.45) y minerales (r=0.46). Además, los recuentos de psicrótroficos proteolíticos mostraron una correlación positiva con el índice crioscópico. Los componentes de la leche cumplieron con los requisitos de IN76. La calidad de la leche cruda refrigerada en el municipio de Santa Helena, Oeste de Paraná no fue satisfactoria en relación a los coliformes totales, debido a su alta incidencia, lo que indica la necesidad de buenas prácticas en el manejo del ordeño. Las bacterias psicrotróficas proteolíticas tuvieron baja proliferación, no afectando la calidad de la leche.(AU)

Evaluator effect on the ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous fat deposition and loin eye area from weaning to slaughter lambs.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that enables animal evaluation and body condition classification of animals. Although it is not difficult to obtain an image, the analysis of this image can influence results quality. This study aimed to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the technician trained in image interpretation obtained using different ultrasound frequencies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-six lambs were used, ranging in weight from 15 to 40 kg. The images were captured using a linear probe of 13 cm, with a 3.5 megahertz (MHz) frequency and an acoustic couplant aid "standoff" or using a multifrequency transducer (6 and 8 MHz), on B mode, with a linear probe and 8.0 MHz frequency. All measurements were performed by the same technician, on the left side, between the 12th and 13th rib. Five different evaluators, at two different times, with aid of Image J software measured the loin eye area (LEA; only for images obtained with 3.5 MHz), Longissimus thoracis et lumborum depth (DLM), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), subcutaneous fat thickness plus skin (SFST), and skin thickness (ST). RESULTS: For LEA, DLM, SFT, SFST, and ST, variation was observed (p<0.01) between evaluators; however, there was no difference (p>0.05) between the 2 times of evaluation. Images measurements obtained with a frequency of 8.0 MHz had better repeatability indices and reproducibility indices. Accordingly, the identity test demonstrated that measurements performed on images obtained using 3.5 or 8.0 MHz were not equivalent. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound image measurements obtained using an 8.0 MHz frequency were more accurate and precise. It is important to use only one evaluator or providing the simultaneous training for all evaluators.

Effect of copaíba essential oil (Copaifera officinalis L.) as a natural preservative on the oxidation and shelf life of sheep burgers.

We evaluated the effects of the inclusion of copaíba (Copaifera officinalis L.) essential oil at 0.05 and 0.1% as a possible replacement of synthetic additive butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in sheep burgers during 14 days of storage in a refrigerated display case (4°C). During the shelf life days, analyzes of antioxidant activity, lipid oxidation, pH, color, cooking loss, texture and consumer acceptability were carried out on refrigerated burgers. The addition of copaíba essential oil showed an antioxidant effect in sheep burgers (P > 0.05), reducing lipid oxidation. Copaiba essential oil added at 0.05% showed the highest antioxidant activity, decreased cooking losses and delaying discoloration (loss of redness) during storage; it further improved, the tenderness of sheep burgers (P < 0.05). The treatments had no effect (P > 0.05) on consumer acceptability. Copaiba essential oil is a promising natural antioxidant to increase the shelf life of meat products, as well as being a viable solution to replace synthetic antioxidant BHT, thereby promoting the fresh-like quality appeal of sheep burgers.

Aerobic stability of tifton 85 silage with and without pre-drying in the sun

The objective of this study was to evaluate pH, ammoniacal nitrogen, and aerobic stability of silage of Tifton 85 grass silage with two dry matter contents at different silos opening times. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a subdivided plots scheme, in which the silages constituted the plots and aerobic exposure times the subplots, with four replications. To verify the aerobic stability of the silages, the temperature and pH were analyzed at seven hours after the silos were opened (1, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 144 hours). The pH reached adequate levels for conservation only after 90 days of fermentation for the silages with and without pre-drying in the sun. Ammoniacal nitrogen remained below the recommended limits in both silages. As for the silage temperature, no loss of aerobic stability was observed. However, the observed pH revealed a break instability after 72 hours when the silos were opened at 28 days, with no changes for the remaining silage periods. It is possible to obtain suitable silages from Tifton 85 with or without pre-warming in the sun, however, a minimum fermentation period of 90 days should be adopted. The studied silages presented high aerobic stability, but when kept silage for only 28 days, they should be consumed by the animals within 48 hours after the supply.

Effects of type of tropical pasture and concentrate supplementation level on the carcass traits of grazing lambs.

The nutritional requirements can be met, and carcass quality can be achieved by using concentrate supplementation in the diets of grazing lambs. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrate supplementation rates (0 %, 1.5 %, and 3 % of body weight) and tropical pastures (Panicum maximum cv. `Aruana' and Brachiaria brizantha cv. `Marandu') on lamb carcass traits. Thirty-six male Suffolk lambs, with an initial body weight of 22.54  ±  2.72  kg , were evaluated in a 3  × â€¯2 factorial experimental design. The concentrate used consisted of milled soybean, maize, and oat grains. The pasture species affected empty body weight and commercial cuts. The use of concentrate supplementation affected carcass weight, yield, indexes, and commercial cuts. Also, the use of concentrate supplementation improved the weight of muscle and fat content. Based on discriminant analysis it is possible to identify the rearing systems, when all variables where used, or the level of concentrate supplementation when variables of weight were used. Carcasses of animals on grass-only diets were different and easier to discriminate. The use of concentrate supplementation on rearing lambs improves the quality of carcass traits. The period of finishing can be shorted with supplementation of 3 % of body weigh in Aruana and Marandu grass. The discriminant analysis can identify the differences between rearing systems based on all carcass traits. This analysis can be used to develop carcass traceability systems.

Milk Potential of Pantaneira Cows, a Local Breed, at Organic System.

Pantaneiro cattle (Bos taurus taurus) is a breed locally adapted to the Brazilian Pantanal. Local breeds are essential for the quality production of organic systems based on planned grazing practices, because of their results in resilient and productive ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Pantaneira primiparous cows, and systems with reduced use of concentrate, simulating organic production conditions. Five animals, with an average body weight of 396.2 ± 43.5 kg, were kept in individual continuous grazing regimes and supplemented with different concentrate levels (1.2%, 0.9%, 0.6%, 0.3%, and 0.0% of body weight). The animals were allocated at random in a 5 × 5 Latin square design repeated twice during the study time. The cows had a low dry matter and nutrient intake with a reduction in concentrate level, with improvement in neutral detergent fiber digestibility and a reduction in total nutrient digestibility. No changes were observed in plasma glucose levels or urea excretion, but the plasma urea nitrogen decreased with reductions in concentrate levels. There was a reduction in milk yield, but the energy-corrected milk was not affected by the reduction in concentrate levels; furthermore, the milk yield efficiency was not affected. The milk fat content improved with the reduction in concentrate levels. The Pantaneira breed has the genetic potential for the maintenance of competitive production and quality in organic systems.

Trichosporon inkin meningitis in Northeast Brazil: first case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Trichosporon species may colonize the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract of human beings. The yeast is recognized as etiological agent of white piedra, a superficial mycosis. Nevertheless, immunocompromised hosts may develop invasive Trichosporonosis. Central nervous system trichosporonosis is a very rare clinical manifestation. In fact, only a few cases have been published in the literature and none of them was caused by Trichosporon inkin. CASE PRESENTATION: Here we report the first clinical case of meningoencephalitis due to this species in a female previously healthy patient under corticosteroids and antibiotics therapy for several months. She was submitted to an invasive procedure to remove a left sided acoustic neuroma and further developed a cerebrospinal fistula. After some days of the procedure, she presented a predominantly and intensive occipital holocranial headache, followed by vomiting, hyporexia, weight loss, asthenia, irritability, difficulty to concentrate and rotator vertigo. The patient further developed a cerebrospinal fistula in the occipital region and was submitted to a surgical correction. After several months of clinical interventions, she was diagnosed with CNS Trichosporonosis, after Magnetic Resonance Imaging and positive microbiological cultures obtained within two different occasions (2 weeks apart). Despite the antifungal therapy with Amphotericin B and Voriconazole, the patient did not survive. CONCLUSIONS: Despite CNS Fungal infections are mostly due to Cryptococcus spp., other emergent yeasts, such as T. inkin may be considered as a likely etiological agent. This is the first case report of CNS Trichosporonosis, where species identification was performed with rDNA sequencing.

Yeast culture increased plasma niacin concentration, evaporative heat loss, and feed efficiency of dairy cows in a hot environment.

The supplementation of dairy cows with yeast culture may increase diet digestibility, plasma niacin concentration, heat dissipation, and lactation performance. Our objective was to evaluate the response of Holstein cows in late lactation (234 ± 131 d in milk) to dead yeast culture (YC, 15 g/d, Factor SC, GRASP, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) during Brazilian summer (temperature-humidity index >68 for 92.2% of the time). Thirty-two cows were individually fed a standard total mixed ration for 14 d and control (CTL) or YC treatments for 35 d, in a covariate adjusted complete randomized block design. Response was evaluated in wk 5 or as repeated measures over time. Cows were milked 3 times per day and treatments (YC or placebo) were orally dosed to each cow before each milking. Plasma niacin was 1.50 for CTL and 1.66 µg/mL for YC. The YC reduced rectal temperature, respiration rate, and skin temperature, whereas it tended to increase sweating rate. The proportion of cows with rectal temperature ≥39.2°C on CTL and YC was, respectively, 8 and 0% at 0730 h, 52 and 25% at 1500 h, and 35 and 26% at 2200 h. Plasma glucose was increased by YC. The total-tract apparent digestibility of nutrients, plasma urea N concentration, molar proportion of ruminal VFA, and urinary allantoin excretion were not affected by YC. Cows fed YC were less selective against feed particles >19 mm in the morning, in the afternoon were more selective against long feed particles and in favor of particles <8 mm, and refused short particles at night. Milk yield was not different (30.5 kg/d for CTL and 30.2 kg/d for YC). Feeding YC reduced dry matter intake (20.3 vs. 19.4 kg/d) and the digestible organic matter intake (15.6 vs. 13.9 kg/d). The inclusion of YC increased the ratios of milk to dry matter intake (1.50 vs. 1.64) and energy-corrected milk to dry matter intake (1.81 vs. 1.98). The covariate adjusted body weight (648 kg) and body condition score (3.0) did not differ. Milk solids yields and concentrations, linear somatic cell count, and milk urea N were also similar. The supplementation of YC increased plasma niacin concentration, body heat loss, and feed efficiency of late lactation dairy cows by reducing intake at similar milk yield.

Hormonal, metabolic, and endometrial safety of testosterone vaginal cream versus estrogens for the treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: a randomized, placebo-controlled study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the laboratory and endometrial safety of topical testosterone versus topical estrogen for the treatment of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. METHODS: This was a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 60 postmenopausal women aged 40 to 70 years at the Menopause Clinic of CAISM UNICAMP. Women were randomized into three vaginal treatment groups: estrogen, testosterone, or placebo. The treatment was applied 3 times a week for 12 weeks. Hormonal laboratory values of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, estrone, androstenedione, total testosterone, free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and sex hormone-binding globulin were assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks. Metabolic laboratory values of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were also assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks. Endometrial safety was assessed using ultrasonography at baseline and at 12 weeks. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of treatment, there were no significant differences in hormonal or metabolic laboratory values among all three groups. Two participants in the estrogen group had increased serum estradiol after 12 weeks of treatment. No change in endometrial thickening was reported in all three groups. CONCLUSIONS: Twelve weeks of treatment with topical testosterone or estrogen in postmenopausal women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy demonstrated laboratory and endometrial safety when compared with placebo.

Tipologia de manejo de ordenha: análise de fatores de risco para a mastite subclínica / Typology of milking management: analysis of risk factors for subclinical mastitis

Apesar do volume de leite produzido, a qualidade da matéria-prima é um dos maiores entraves ao desenvolvimento tecnológico e à consolidação da indústria de laticínios no Brasil. Dentre os entraves, toma destaque a contagem de células somáticas do leite, que é o indicador mais usado em programas de controle e prevenção da mastite em todo o mundo. Com objetivo de identificar características no manejo de ordenha e quantificar fatores de risco que elevam a mastite subclínica e seus principais agentes causadores, realizou-se coleta de dados in loco em propriedades leiteiras na região Oeste do Paraná, coletas que consistiam na aplicação de dois questionários guia semi-estruturados, acompanhamento de uma ordenha e coleta de leite de três vacas que apresentassem o teste de CMT positivo. Com a utilização do método estatístico de análise de correspondência múltipla (ACM) chegou-se a um montante de 12 variáveis a serem estudadas e a formação das dimensões 1 e 2 com 28,54% e 21,06% da variância explicada respectivamente. Com a análise de classificação hierárquica ascendente permitiu reduzir o universo inicial de 112 vacas para quatro grupos homogêneos de produção (G1, G2, G3, G4). As características de manejo de ordenha: tipo de ordenha, secagem dos tetos antes da ordenha, tratamento para casos de mastite clínica, higiene das mãos do ordenhador e treinamento dos ordenadores foram identificados como fatores de risco para mastite subclínica com isolamento do agente Staphylococcus coagulase negativo, o qual foi o agente mais prevalente nos isolamentos microbiológicos das amostras de leite com mastite subclínica.(AU)

Despite the produced milk volume, its quality is one of the barriers for technological development and consolidation of the dairy industry in Brazil. Among the barriers is the milk somatic cell count, which is the indicator used in most control programs and prevention of mastitis. In order to identify characteristics in the management of milking and to quantify risk factors that increase subclinical mastitis and its main bacterial agents, data were collected in situ on dairy farms in western Paraná. The data collection consisted in the application of two questionnaires, in accompanying a milking procedure, and in collection of CMT positive milk samples from three cows. Using the statistical method of multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) we came to a total of 12 variables to be studied, and to the formation of dimension 1 and 2 with respectively 28.54% and 21.06% of the explained variance. With the hierarchical ascending classification analysis it was possible to reduce the initial population of 112 cows to produce four homogeneous groups (G1, G2, G3, G4). The milking handling characteristics, as type of milking, drying teats before milking, treatment for cases of clinical mastitis, milker's hand hygiene and as training of officers, were identified as risk factors for subclinical mastitis with isolation of a coagulase negative Staphylococcus, which was the most prevalent agent in milk samples of subclinical mastitis.(AU)

Secondary transmission of cryptosporidiosis associated with well water consumption: two case studies.

Cryptosporidiosis is a very prominent disease in the field of public health, and usually causes diarrhea. We describe two immunocompetent patients who presented with chronic diarrhea that was ultimately found to be caused by continuous exposure to well water contaminated with the microbial cysts (oocysts) of the Cryptosporidium spp parasite. We describe the patients' histories and possible explanations for their prolonged symptoms.

Efficacy of vaginally applied estrogen, testosterone, or polyacrylic acid on vaginal atrophy: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Vaginal atrophy is a common chronic condition among postmenopausal women that can affect their quality of life. Recent studies have evaluated new treatment alternatives for vaginal atrophy; however, few therapeutic options have been thoroughly evaluated. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and adverse effects of estrogen, testosterone, polyacrylic acid, and placebo lubricant for the treatment of postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy. METHODS: We conducted a randomized clinical trial with 80 postmenopausal women aged between 40 and 70 years who were being followed up at the Menopause Clinic of CAISM UNICAMP between November 2011 and January 2013. Women were randomly assigned to topical vaginal treatment with estrogen, testosterone, polyacrylic acid, and placebo lubricant, three times a week for 12 weeks. We used the vaginal maturation index, pH, vaginal health score, vaginal flora, laboratory tests, and ultrasound to evaluate changes of vaginal atrophy at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: After a 12-week treatment with topical estrogen and testosterone compared with the lubricant, an increased percentage of participants had vaginal pH less than 5, increased vaginal score, and an increase in the number of lactobacilli. Treatment with topical estrogen improved the vaginal maturation index and showed increased levels of estradiol in three women. No changes were observed in the endometrial evaluation of all treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: After a 12-week treatment with testosterone and estrogen compared with placebo lubrication, there was a significant improvement in vaginal trophism in postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy.

Secondary transmission of cryptosporidiosis associated with well water consumption: two case studies

Abstract: Cryptosporidiosis is a very prominent disease in the field of public health, and usually causes diarrhea. We describe two immunocompetent patients who presented with chronic diarrhea that was ultimately found to be caused by continuous exposure to well water contaminated with the microbial cysts (oocysts) of the Cryptosporidium spp parasite. We describe the patients' histories and possible explanations for their prolonged symptoms.

[Factors associated with menopausal symptoms in women from a metropolitan region in Southeastern Brazil: a population-based household survey]. / Epidemiologia da menopausa e dos sintomas climatéricos em mulheres de uma região metropolitana no sudeste do Brasil: inquérito populacional domiciliar.

PURPOSE: To determine the average age at the onset of menopause and to investigate menopausal symptoms in women in a metropolitan region in Southeastern Brazil. METHODS: A descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional study was conducted with 749 women (a population-based household survey). The dependent variable was the intensity of menopausal symptoms assessed by th Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). The independent variables were sociodemographic data, health-related habits and problems, self-perception of health, and gynecological background. Statistical analysis was carried out by the χ2 test and Poisson regression using the backward selection criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the women was 52.5 (± 4.4) years. With regard to menopausal status, 16% were premenopausal, 16% perimenopausal and 68% postmenopausal. The mean age at the onset of menopause was 46.5 (± 5.8) years. The intensity of menopausal symptoms was defined according to the median MRS score and was considered severe for values ​​above 8. Depression/anxiety (PR = 1.8; 95%CI 1.5-2.2; p < 0.01), rheumatic diseases (PR 1.5; 95%CI 1.2-1.7; p < 0.01), self-perception of health as fair/poor/very poor (PR 1.4; 95% CI 1.2-1.7; p < 0.01), history of abortion (PR 1.3; 95%CI 1.1-1.4; p < 0.01), current or previous treatment for menopausal symptoms (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.1-1.4; p < 0.01), peri- or postmenopausal status (PR 1.4; 95%CI 1.1-1.7; p < 0.01), number of normal deliveries > 1 (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.02-1.4; p < 0.01) and asthma (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.01-1.4; p < 0.01) were associated with more severe menopausal symptoms. Older age (PR 0.96; 95%CI 0.96-0.97; p < 0.01) was associated with less severe symptoms. CONCLUSION: The severity of menopausal symptoms was related to a wild range of factors, especially presence of chronic diseases, a larger number of pregnancies, use of hormone therapy, and worse self-rated health. A better understanding of these factors can help to reduce the impact of symptoms on quality of life, and to identify groups of women who are likely to need more care during and beyond menopause.