What triggers phenological events in plants under seasonal environments? A study with phylogenetically related plant species in sympatry

Abstract In this study, we evaluated variation in vegetative and reproductive phenological events of four phylogenetically related plant species subjected to a seasonal environment. To this aim, we sampled 15 individuals of each plant species every fortnight for one year, between January and December of 2017. To assess when a given phenophase occurred more intensely in the population, the Fournier intensity index was used and the synchrony of individuals of the sample in a given phenological event was estimated using the activity index. The Rayleigh (Z) test was used to determine whether the phenological events have seasonal distribution. The relationship of abiotic factors (photoperiod, precipitation, relative humidity and temperature) with the intensity of phenophases was evaluated for each plant species using generalized linear models (GLMs). The phenophases of all plants showed a seasonal distribution pattern, as well as variation in synchrony of phenophases and specific sets of abiotic factors significantly influenced their phenophases. New leaves, for example, were produced throughout the seasons, with intense leaf fall in the dry season. Flowering periods, on the other hand, did not overlap. Indeed, species exhibited sequential flowering and asynchronous flowering among individuals. Our results suggest that the phenological patterns of four sympatric plant species are directly linked to climatic variables, but different abiotic factors affected different phenophases.

Resumo Neste estudo, avaliamos a variação nos eventos fenológicos vegetativos e reprodutivos de quatro espécies de plantas filogeneticamente relacionadas submetidas a um ambiente sazonal. Para isso, amostramos 15 indivíduos de cada espécie quinzenalmente, pelo período de um ano, entre janeiro e dezembro de 2017. Para avaliar quando uma determinada fenofase ocorreu de modo mais intenso na população foi utilizado o índice de intensidade de Fournier e a sincronia dos indivíduos da amostra em determinado evento fenológico foi estimada utilizando-se o índice de atividade. O teste de Rayleigh (Z) foi usado para determinar se os eventos fenológicos têm distribuição sazonal. A relação dos fatores abióticos (fotoperíodo, precipitação, temperatura e umidade relativa) com a intensidade das fenofases foi avaliada para cada espécie de planta usando modelos lineares generalizados (GLMs). As fenofases de todas as plantas apresentaram um padrão de distribuição sazonal, bem como variação na sincronia das fenofases e conjuntos específicos de fatores abióticos influenciaram significativamente suas fenofases. Folhas novas, por exemplo, foram produzidas ao longo das estações, com intensa queda de folhas na estação seca. Os períodos de floração, por outro lado, não se sobrepuseram. De fato, as espécies exibiram floração sequencial e floração assíncrona entre os indivíduos. Nossos resultados sugerem que os padrões fenológicos das quatro espécies de plantas simpátricas estão diretamente ligados às variáveis climáticas, mas diferentes fatores abióticos afetaram diferentes fenofases.

What triggers phenological events in plants under seasonal environments? A study with phylogenetically related plant species in sympatry / O que desencadeia eventos fenológicos em plantas em ambientes sazonais? Um estudo com espécies de plantas filogeneticamente relacionadas e em simpatria

In this study, we evaluated variation in vegetative and reproductive phenological events of four phylogenetically related plant species subjected to a seasonal environment. To this aim, we sampled 15 individuals of each plant species every fortnight for one year, between January and December of 2017. To assess when a given phenophase occurred more intensely in the population, the Fournier intensity index was used and the synchrony of individuals of the sample in a given phenological event was estimated using the activity index. The Rayleigh (Z) test was used to determine whether the phenological events have seasonal distribution. The relationship of abiotic factors (photoperiod, precipitation, relative humidity and temperature) with the intensity of phenophases was evaluated for each plant species using generalized linear models (GLMs). The phenophases of all plants showed a seasonal distribution pattern, as well as variation in synchrony of phenophases and specific sets of abiotic factors significantly influenced their phenophases. New leaves, for example, were produced throughout the seasons, with intense leaf fall in the dry season. Flowering periods, on the other hand, did not overlap. Indeed, species exhibited sequential flowering and asynchronous flowering among individuals. Our results suggest that the phenological patterns of four sympatric plant species are directly linked to climatic variables, but different abiotic factors affected different phenophases.

Neste estudo, avaliamos a variação nos eventos fenológicos vegetativos e reprodutivos de quatro espécies de plantas filogeneticamente relacionadas submetidas a um ambiente sazonal. Para isso, amostramos 15 indivíduos de cada espécie quinzenalmente, pelo período de um ano, entre janeiro e dezembro de 2017. Para avaliar quando uma determinada fenofase ocorreu de modo mais intenso na população foi utilizado o índice de intensidade de Fournier e a sincronia dos indivíduos da amostra em determinado evento fenológico foi estimada utilizando-se o índice de atividade. O teste de Rayleigh (Z) foi usado para determinar se os eventos fenológicos têm distribuição sazonal. A relação dos fatores abióticos (fotoperíodo, precipitação, temperatura e umidade relativa) com a intensidade das fenofases foi avaliada para cada espécie de planta usando modelos lineares generalizados (GLMs). As fenofases de todas as plantas apresentaram um padrão de distribuição sazonal, bem como variação na sincronia das fenofases e conjuntos específicos de fatores abióticos influenciaram significativamente suas fenofases. Folhas novas, por exemplo, foram produzidas ao longo das estações, com intensa queda de folhas na estação seca. Os períodos de floração, por outro lado, não se sobrepuseram. De fato, as espécies exibiram floração sequencial e floração assíncrona entre os indivíduos. Nossos resultados sugerem que os padrões fenológicos das quatro espécies de plantas simpátricas estão diretamente ligados às variáveis climáticas, mas diferentes fatores abióticos afetaram diferentes fenofases.

What triggers phenological events in plants under seasonal environments? A study with phylogenetically related plant species in sympatry.

In this study, we evaluated variation in vegetative and reproductive phenological events of four phylogenetically related plant species subjected to a seasonal environment. To this aim, we sampled 15 individuals of each plant species every fortnight for one year, between January and December of 2017. To assess when a given phenophase occurred more intensely in the population, the Fournier intensity index was used and the synchrony of individuals of the sample in a given phenological event was estimated using the activity index. The Rayleigh (Z) test was used to determine whether the phenological events have seasonal distribution. The relationship of abiotic factors (photoperiod, precipitation, relative humidity and temperature) with the intensity of phenophases was evaluated for each plant species using generalized linear models (GLMs). The phenophases of all plants showed a seasonal distribution pattern, as well as variation in synchrony of phenophases and specific sets of abiotic factors significantly influenced their phenophases. New leaves, for example, were produced throughout the seasons, with intense leaf fall in the dry season. Flowering periods, on the other hand, did not overlap. Indeed, species exhibited sequential flowering and asynchronous flowering among individuals. Our results suggest that the phenological patterns of four sympatric plant species are directly linked to climatic variables, but different abiotic factors affected different phenophases.

The interval since first symptoms until diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck region is still a problem in southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to examine the interval since first symptoms until final diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the head and neck region in southern Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The individuals were prospectively selected and underwent anamnesis, physical examination and interview in the first medical consultation at a Cancer Hospital from south of Brazil. RESULTS: From 488 patients who underwent clinical examination, 105 were included in the study with diagnosis of SCC. Patients average interval from first symptoms to final diagnosis was 152 days (median 86; max:1105; min: 1), the average professional interval was 108 days (median: 97; max:525; min: 1) , and the average total period interval was 258 days (median: 186; max:1177; min: 45). Factors statistically associated with patient and diagnosis itinerary intervals were smoking and poorly adapted dentures and distance from home to hospital, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The identification of the itinerary characteristics of this specific population may reflect in more effective public policies, such as primary and secondary prevention programs, aiming to increase the survival of oncological patient. Furthermore, the knowledge of the variables that influence the late diagnosis minimizes patient's journey in search of care to cancer centers through health programs.

Sclerotherapy of benign oral vascular lesions with non-diluted ethanolamine oleate / Escleroterapia de lesiones vasculares orales benignas con oleato de etanolamina no diluido

Benign oral vascular lesions are anomalies characterized by the blood vessels proliferation or malformation and the treatment with the sclerosing agent ethanolamine oleate acts irrigating the vessel producing a sterile inflammatory response. The objective of this study was to report and discuss the results from treatment of benign oral vascular lesions with non-diluted ethanolamine oleate through the analysis of clinical records. The sample was composed by the selection of twenty-six patients (12 male and 14 female), with oral vascular malformations. All lesions were treated with intralesional injections of undiluted ethanolamine oleate. These patients attended in Oral Medicine outpatient clinic of the Federal University of Paraná between the years of 2011 to 2015. The average age was 60.65 years, with a higher prevalence for women. The majority of the individuals had one lesion and its location was mostly in the lower lip. The main complaint was about a physical discomfort. The lesions had the average size of 6.52 mm and received a median number of 2.32 applications. Only one patient reported feeling pain in the postoperative week. In most cases the resolution of the lesion was considered partial. Follow-up was obtained up to one month after the end of treatment. The sclerotherapy with undiluted ethanolamine oleate shows acceptable results in the treatment of small benign oral vascular lesions with a few minor side effects.

Las lesiones vasculares orales benignas son anomalías caracterizadas por la proliferación o malformación de los vasos sanguíneos y el tratamiento con el agente esclerosante etanolamina oleato actúa irrigando el vaso produciendo una respuesta inflamatoria estéril. El objetivo de este estudio fue informar y discutir los resultados del tratamiento de lesiones vasculares orales benignas con oleato de etanolamina no diluido a través del análisis de historias clínicas. La muestra estuvo compuesta por la selección de veintiséis pacientes (12 hombres y 14 mujeres), con malformaciones vasculares orales. Todas las lesiones fueron tratadas con inyecciones intralesionales de oleato de etanolamina sin diluir. Estos pacientes acudieron a la clínica ambulatoria de Medicina Oral de la Universidad Federal de Paraná entre los años 2011 a 2015. La edad promedio fue de 60,65 años, con una mayor prevalencia para las mujeres. La mayoría de los individuos tenían una lesión y su ubicación era principalmente en el labio inferior. La queja principal era sobre una molestia física. Las lesiones tenían un tamaño promedio de 6,52 mm y recibieron una mediana de 2,32 aplicaciones. Solo un paciente informó haber sentido dolor en la semana postoperatoria. En la mayoría de los casos, la resolución de la lesión se consideró parcial. El seguimiento se obtuvo hasta un mes después del final del tratamiento. La escleroterapia con oleato de etanolamina sin diluir muestra resultados aceptables en el tratamiento de pequeñas lesiones vasculares orales benignas con algunos efectos secundarios menores.

Prolonged exposure of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia biofilms to trace levels of clofibric acid alters antimicrobial tolerance and virulence.

The presence of pharmaceuticals in water sources, including in drinking water (DW), is increasingly being recognized as an emerging and global concern for the environment and public health. Based on the principles of the "One Health" initiative, the present work aims to understand the effects of clofibric acid (CA), a lipid regulator, on the behavior of a selected bacterium isolated from drinking water (DW). Biofilms of the opportunistic pathogen Stenotrophomonas maltophilia were exposed to CA for 12 weeks at 170 and 17000 ng/L. The effects of CA were evaluated on planktonic S. maltophilia susceptibility to chlorine and antibiotics (amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, kanamycin, levofloxacin, oxacillin, spectinomycin, tetracycline and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole), biofilm formation, motility, siderophores production and on the adhesion and internalization of the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29). It was found that CA did not affect planktonic S. maltophilia tolerance to chlorine exposure. Additionally, no effects were observed on biofilm formation, motility and siderophores production. However, biofilms formed after CA exposure were more tolerant to chlorine disinfection and lower CFU reductions were obtained. Of additional concern was the effect of CA exposure on S. maltophilia increased tolerance to erythromycin. CA exposure also slightly reduced S. maltophilia ability to invade HT-29 cells. In conclusion, this work reinforces the importance of studying the effects of non-antibiotic contaminants on the behavior of environmental microorganisms, particularly their role as drivers affecting resistance evolution and selection.

The Salivary Microbiome and Oral Cancer Risk: a Pilot Study in Fanconi Anemia.

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare genetic disease characterized by chromosomal instability and impaired DNA damage repair. FA patients develop oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) earlier and more frequently than the general population, especially after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Although evidence of an etiological role of the local microbiome and carcinogenesis has been mounting, no information exists regarding the oral microbiome of FA patients. The aim of this study was to explore the salivary microbiome of 61 FA patients regarding their oral health status and OSCC risk factors. After answering a questionnaire and receiving clinical examination, saliva samples were collected and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing of the V3-V4 hypervariable region. The microbial profiles associated with medical and clinical parameters were analyzed using general linear models. Patients were young (mean age, 22 y) and most had received HSCT ( n = 53). The most abundant phyla were Firmicutes [mean relative abundance (SD), 42.1% (10.1%)] and Bacteroidetes [(25.4% (11.4%)]. A history of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) ( n = 27) was associated with higher proportions of Firmicutes (43.8% × 38.5%, P = 0.05). High levels of gingival bleeding were associated with the genera Prevotella (22.25% × 20%), Streptococcus (19.83% × 17.61%), Porphyromonas (3.63% × 1.42%, P = 0.03), Treponema (1.02% × 0.28%, P = 0.009), Parvimonas (0.28% × 0.07%, P = 0.02) and Dialister (0.27% × 0.10%, P = 0.04). Finally, participants transplanted over 11 y ago showed the highest levels of Streptococcus (18.4%), Haemophilus (12.7%) and Neisseria (6.8%). In conclusion, FA patients that showed poor oral hygiene harbored higher proportions of the genera of bacteria compatible with gingival disease. Specific microbial differences were associated with a history of oral GVHD and a history of oral mucositis.

Outcome of orthodontic mini-implant loss in relation to interleukin 6 polymorphisms.

Mini-implants (MIs) are used increasingly for orthodontic anchorage and their success may require some osseointegration, which is affected by the underlying host immune-inflammatory response. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a cytokine expressed during the host response after a trauma or infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical characteristics and IL6 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (which capture the information of the whole gene in terms of genetic variability) with the loss of MIs for orthodontic anchorage. A total of 487 patients were treated with orthodontic MIs between 2004 and 2010. After the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, the sample comprised 104 patients with one or more MIs that had been in function for at least 6 months with no loss, and 31 patients who had lost one or more MIs. Allele A of rs2069843 and allele T of rs2069849 were suggestively associated with the loss of MIs for orthodontic anchorage and were in complete linkage disequilibrium, which means that one of them is sufficient to capture the same information. The location of installation (mandible) and the number of MIs installed per patient were also associated with the loss of MIs.

Crumpled states of a wire in a cubic cavity with periodic obstacles.

In this paper, we study experimentally the configurations of a plastic wire injected into a cubic cavity containing periodic obstacles placed along a fixed direction. The wire moves in a wormlike manner within the cavity until it becomes jammed in a crumpled state. The maximum packing fraction of the wire depends on the topology of the cavity, which in turn depends on the number of obstacles. The experimental results exhibit scaling laws and display similarities as well as differences with a recently reported two-dimensional version of this complex packing problem. We discuss in detail several aspects of this problem that seem as intricate as the problem of a self-avoiding random walk. Analogies between the experiment reported and some statistical aspects of the bond-percolation problem, as well as of the interacting electron gas at finite temperature, and other physical issues are also discussed.

Influence of MMP-8 promoter polymorphism in early osseointegrated implant failure.

OBJECTIVE: Dental implants consist in the treatment of choice to replace tooth loss. The knowledge that implant loss tends to cluster in subsets of individuals may indicate that host immuneinflammatory response is influenced by genetic factors. In fact, genetic polymorphisms influence the osseointegration process. The objective of this study was investigate the possible relationship between C-799T polymorphism in matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8) gene and early implant failure in nonsmoker patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Subjects were divided into two groups: control group (100 patients with one or more healthy implants) and test group (80 patients that had suffered one or more early implant failures). Genomic DNA from oral mucosa was amplified by PCR and analyzed by restriction endonucleases. The significance of the differences in observed frequencies of polymorphisms was assessed by Chi-square. RESULTS: Statistical analysis shows that in the MMP-8 gene, the T allele in 76.25% in the test group and the T/T genotype, 63.75% in the same group, may predispose to early loss of implants osseointegrated. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that polymorphism in the promoter region of MMP-8 gene is associated with early implant failure. This polymorphism can be a genetic marker to risk of implant loss. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The determination of this genetic pattern in osseointegration would enable the identification of individuals at higher risk to loss implant. Thus, genetic markers will be identified, contributing to an appropriate preoperative selection and preparation of strategies for prevention and therapy individualized to modulate the genetic markers and increase the success rate of treatments.

Microbiota benefits after inulin and partially hydrolized guar gum supplementation: a randomized clinical trial in constipated women.

INTRODUCTION: Prebiotics positively affect gut microbiota composition, thus improving gut function. These properties may be useful for the treatment of constipation. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the tolerance and effectiveness of a prebiotic inulin/partially hydrolyzed guar gum mixture (I-PHGG) for the treatment of constipation in females, as well as its influence on the composition of intestinal microbiota and production of short chain fatty acids. METHODS: Our study enrolled 60 constipated female health worker volunteers. Participants reported less than 3 bowel movements per week. Volunteers were randomized to treatment with prebiotic or placebo. Treatment consisted of 3 weeks supplementation with 15 g/d IPHGG (fiber group) or maltodextrin (placebo group). Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, stool consistency, and bowel movements were evaluated by a recorded daily questionnaire and a weekly interview. Changes in fecal bacterial population and short chain fatty acids were assessed by real-time PCR and gas chromatography, respectively. RESULTS: There was an increased frequency of weekly bowel movements and patient satisfaction in both the fiber and placebo groups with no significant differences. Total Clostridium sp significantly decreased in the fiber group (p = 0.046) and increased in the placebo group (p = 0.047). There were no changes in fecal short chain fatty acid profile. CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of I-PHGG produced clinical results comparable to placebo in constipated females, but had additional protective effects on gut microbiota by decreasing the amount of pathological bacteria of the Clostridium genera.

Parenteral lipid emulsions and phagocytic systems.

Lipid emulsions (LE) for parenteral use are complex emulsions containing fatty acids, glycerol, phospholipids and tocopherol in variable amounts and concentrations. In clinical practice, LE have been employed for more than 30 years. Fatty acids may have different impacts on phagocytic cells according to their structure. Experimental and clinical studies have consistently shown that LE modify monocyte/macrophage and polymorphonuclear phagocytosis. The inhibitory effect of LE on the functional activity of the phagocytic system, although still clinically controversial, may have a harmful impact because total parenteral nutrition with lipids may be recommended in hypercatabolic conditions where inflammation and infection are present. LE based on triglycerides containing long chain fatty acids (termed long chain triglycerides or LCT) are the main parenteral fat source and are typically rich in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. They may have adverse effects on the immune system, especially when given in high doses over a short period of time. However when administered properly they can be used safely. LE containing medium chain triglycerides (MCT) may have some advantages because of their positive effects on polymorphonuclear cells, macrophages, and cytokine production, particularly in critically ill or immunocompromised patients. New parenteral LE containing n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids or monounsaturated olive oil are already available in Europe. Judicious use of these new LE is mandatory especially relating on their potential impact on the immune system. New experimental and clinical studies are required to further establish the role of LE in clinical nutrition.

[Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi infection in children from an endemic area of visceral leishmaniasis in the São Luís Island-MA, Brazil]. / Infecção por Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi em crianças de uma área endêmica de leishmaniose visceral americana na Ilha de São Luis-MA, Brasil.

A prospective study was undertaken in 648 children with less than 6 years of age in the municipality of Raposa, Maranhão, Brazil, from June 1997 to June 1998, to evaluate the characteristics of the infection by L.(L.)chagasi and verify if there is an association between malnutrition and asymptomatic infection. A standardized questionnaire was used containing socioeconomic, environmental and behavioral data. Montenegro skin reaction (IDRM) with L. amazonensis and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test to detect infection, and anthropometric examination were performed. Initial and final prevalence and incidence of infection were 18.6%, 20.6% and 10.8% as measured by IDRM and 13.5%, 34.4% and 28% according to ELISA. The prevalence of chronic malnutrition was 26%. No association was detected between malnutrition and asymptomatic infection by L. (L.) chagasi. More effective control measures are needed in these areas since asymptomatic infection seems to be on the increase.

Behavioral and neuropsychological correlates of hyperactivity and inattention in Brazilian school children.

Attempts at subtyping attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) along the hyperactivity dimension are considered controversial. This study addresses this issue by dividing a non-clinical sample of Brazilian children (mean age, 9.4 years; SD, 2.9), who were attending a mainstream school in the Greater Rio de Janeiro area, into four behavioral domain groups (normal [NO, N=324], hyperactive/impulsive [HI, N=17], inattentive [IA, N=48], and combined [C, N=13]) on the basis of teacher ratings on an ADHD scale. The groups did not differ in intellectual level as determined by the Human Figure Drawing test. Comparisons were made between groups along the factorial dimensions extracted from the Composite Teacher Rating Scale, academic performance and neuropsychological measures were then performed. Our data showed that IA and C children are less independent and more prone to socialization problems than NO children, and that HI and C children are less anxious and fearful than IA children. Furthermore, the groups differed in academic and neuropsychological performance. The results could be considered consistent with the hypothesis that ADD with hyperactivity (ADD/+) and ADD without hyperactivity (ADD/-) represent singular nosological entities.

Developmental norms for eight instruments used in the neuropsychological assessment of children: studies in Brazil.

Norms for a battery of instruments, including Denckla's and Garfield's tests of Motor Persistence, Benton's Right-Left Discrimination, two recall modalities (Immediate and Delayed) of the Bender Test, Wechsler's Digit Span, the Color Span Test and the Human Figure Drawing Test, were developed for the neuropsychological assessment of children in the greater Rio de Janeiro area. Additionally, the behavior of each child was assessed with the Composite Teacher Rating Scale (Brito GNO and Pinto RCA (1991) Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 13: 417-418). A total of 398 children (199 boys and 199 girls balanced for age) with a mean age of 9.3 years (SD = 2.8), who were attending a public school in Niterói, were the subjects of this study. Gender and age had significant effects on performance which depended on the instrument. Nonachievers performed worse than achievers in most neuropsychological tests. Comparison of our data to the available counterparts in the United States revealed that American children outperformed Brazilian children on the Right-Left Discrimination, Forward Digit Span, Color Span and Human Figure Drawing Tests. Further analysis showed that the neurobehavioral data consist of different factorial dimensions, including Human Body Representation, Motor Persistence of the Legs, Orbito-Orobuccal Motor Persistence, Attention-Memory, Visuospatial Memory, Neuropsychomotor Speed, Hyperactivity-Inattention, and Anxiety-Negative Socialization. We conclude that gender and age should be taken into account when using the normative data for most of the instruments studied in the present report. Furthermore, we stress the need for major changes in the Brazilian public school system in order to foster the development of secondary cognitive abilities in our children.

Developmental norms for eight instruments used in the neuropsychological assessment of children: studies in Brazil

Norms for a battery of instruments, including Denckla's and Garfield's tests of Motor Persistence, Benton's Right-Left Discrimination, two recall modalities (Immediate and Delayed) of the Bender Test, Wechsler's Digit Span, the Color Span Test and the Human Figure Drawing Test, were developed for the neuropsychological assessment of children in the greater Rio de Janeiro area. Additionally, the behavior of each child was assessed with the Composite Teacher Rating Scale (Brito GNO and Pinto RCA (1991) Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 13:417-418). A total of 398 children (199 boys and 199 girls balanced for age) with a mean age of 9.3 years (SD=2.8), who were attending a public school in Niterói, were the subjects of this study. Gender and age had significant effects on performance which depended on the instrument. Nonachievers performed worse than achievers in most neuropsychological tests. Comparison of our data to the available counterparts in the United States revealed that American children outperformed Brazilian children on the Right-Left Discrimination, Forward Digit Span, Color Span and Human Figure Drawing Tests. Further analysis showed that the neurobehavioral data consist of different factorial dimensions, including Human Body Representation, Motor Persistence of the Legs, Orbito-Orobuccal Motor Persistence, Attention-Memory, Visuospatial Memory, Neuropsychomotor Speed, Hyperactivity-Inattention, and Anxiety-Negative Socialization. We conclude that gender and age should be taken into account when using the normative data for most of the instruments studied in the present report. Furthermore, we stress the need for major changes in the Brazilian public school system in order to foster the development of secondary cognitive abilities in our children.

Acute primary cutaneous Nocardia asteroides infection in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Case report.

We report a case of acute primary cutaneous infection of traumatic origin caused by Nocardia asteroides, appeared as cellulitis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Diagnosis was established by direct examination and cultures from aspirate specimens. The clinical forms of Nocardia infections that affect the skin, reported in Rio Grande do Sul and Uruguay, are discussed.

Selectivity of bradykinin analogues for receptors mediating contraction and relaxation of the rat duodenum.

1. Bradykinin produces a biphasic response in the rat duodenum that consists of a relaxation (pD2 = 8.44) followed by a contraction (pD2 = 6.91). 2. The B1 agonist des-Arg9-bradykinin produced a contraction (pD2 = 7.16) but no relaxation. Des-Arg9-[Leu8]-bradykinin, which is a B1 antagonist in other systems produced contraction (pD2 = 7.65) in the rat duodenum. 3. Four bradykinin analogues that are preferential B2 agonists in other tissues had a biphasic effect with pD2 values in the range 7.22-8.68 for relaxation and 6.26-6.91 for contraction. 4. [Thi5,8,D-Phe7]-bradykinin, which is a B2 antagonist in most other systems produced relaxation in the rat duodenum, with a pD2 of 7.49. 5. It is concluded that the contractile component of the response to bradykinin in rat duodenum may be mediated by a subtype of the B1 receptor and the relaxant component by a receptor of the B2 subtype.

Influence of n-3 fatty acids on blood lipids in normal subjects.

The effects of consuming oils providing alpha-linolenic (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids were studied in healthy volunteers. A blunted increase in plasma triglyceride was observed in subjects given a test meal containing fish oil compared with olive oil; cholesterol concentrations were not increased; increases in EPA and DHA were seen in all lipid fractions. In longer term supplementation studies, ALA increased EPA, but not DHA in plasma phospholipids; preformed EPA was more effective. The proportion of EPA in platelet lipids increased in a dose dependent manner. EPA or DHA, but not ALA, decreased plasma triglyceride and VLDL cholesterol concentrations. Supplements containing DHA increased HDL and HDL2 cholesterol and LDL apoB. Total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations were unaltered.

Characterization of the receptors responsible for the diphasic effect of bradykinin in rat duodenum.

The response of the rat duodenum to bradykinin (BK) consists of relaxant and contractile components, which have been attributed to different receptor types. To characterize the receptors responsible for this diphasic response we studied the effects of BK analogues known to act on B1 or B2 receptors in other systems. DesArg9-Leu8-BK and Thi5,8DPhe7-BK presented only relaxant and only contractile effects, respectively, whereas DArg0Hyp3Thi5,8DPhe7-BK was a potent antagonist of the relaxation (but not of the contraction) induced by BK. Our results show that the relaxant and contractile components of the rat duodenum's response to BK are due to B2 and B1 receptor subtypes, respectively.