UNA NUEVA EXPLICACIÓN DE LA HOMEOPATÍA / A NEW EXPLANATION OF HOMEOPATHY

Este artículo cubre los conceptos básicos de un nuevo modelo de homeopatía que se basa en la termodinámica química. La equivalencia entre el compuesto que causa la enfermedad en una persona saludable y el compuesto que causa la enfermedad en una persona enferma, lo que llevó a esta interpretación del nuevo modelo de homeopatía, está bien considerado. Se han considerado el mecanismo de curación, la Ley de los Similares y la Ley de los Infinitesimales. Este artículo también analiza los conceptos básicos del mecanismo de dilución y su influencia en la concentración final de moléculas de remedio en soluciones homeopáticas. El número máximo de pasos sucesivos que impliquen una molienda vigorosa y se consideró la dilución donde todavía es posible la existencia de una concentración terapéutica.

Tis article covers the basics of a new model of homeopathy that is grounded in chemical thermodynamics. Te equivalence between the disease-causing compound in a heathy person and the disease-causing compound in an ill person, which led to this interpretation of the new model of homeopathy, is well considered. Te mechanism of curing, the Law of Similars, and the Law of Infinitesimals were considered. Tis article also discusses the basics of the dilution mechanism and its influence on the final concentration of remedy molecules in homeopathic solutions. Te maximum number of succession steps involving vigorous grinding and dilution where the existence of a therapeutic concentration is still possible was considered

Inclusion complexes of 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin with 2-hydroxypropyl-(-cyclodextrin: solubility and antimicrobial activity

The aim of the present study is to improve the solubility and antimicrobial activity of 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin by formulating its inclusion complexes with 2-hydroxypropyl-ß-cyclodextrin in solution and in solid state. The phase solubility study was used to investigate the interactions between 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin and 2-hydroxypropyl-ß-cyclodextrin and to estimate the molar ratio between them. The structural characterization of binary systems (prepared by physical mixing, kneading and solvent evaporation methods) was analysed using the FTIR-ATM spectroscopy. The antimicrobial activity of 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin and inclusion complexes prepared by solvent evaporation method was tested by the diffusion and dilution methods on various strains of microorganisms. The results of phase solubility studies showed that 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin formed the inclusion complexes with 2-hydroxypropyl-ß-cyclodextrin of AP type. The solubility of 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin was increased 64.05-fold with 50% w/w of 2-hydroxypropyl-ß-cyclodextrin at 37 oC. The inclusion complexes in solid state, prepared by the solvent evaporation method, showed higher solubility in purified water and in phosphate buffer solutions in comparison with 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin alone. The inclusion complexes prepared by solvent evaporation method showed higher activity on Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus compared to uncomplexed 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin due to improved aqueous solubility, thus increasing the amount of available 3-(3-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-2-enoyl)-4-hydroxycoumarin that crosses the bacterial membrane.

Bioactivities of Alchemilla mollis, Alchemilla persica and Their Active Constituents

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine antimicrobial activities of Alchemilla mollis, Alchemilla persica as well as ellagic acid and miquelianin against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans by using microbroth dilution method and anti-inflammatory activity by using human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization method. Microbroth dilution method was used to determine the antimicrobial activities. Extracts possessed activity having MIC values of 2.5-5-10mg/ mL, compounds possessed activity having MIC values of 1.25-2.5-4-5mg/mL. A.mollis aerial parts displayed the highest anti-inflammatory activity (IC50=1.22±0.07mg/mL). Ellagic acid and miquelianin were also determined as anti-inflammatory agents with 0.57±0.01mg/mL and 1.23±0.02mg/mL IC50 values, respectively. Total phenolic content and tannin content of the A.mollis and A.persica were determined as 357.00±75.80mg, 282.50±28.70mg PGE/g plant material and 18.02%, 18.63% respectively according to the method described by European Pharmacopoeia. Ellagic acid, miquelianin and catechin were analyzed by HPLC. The highest catechin content was detected in A.persica roots (6.69±0.05g/100g plant material). A.mollis aerial parts contain higher miquelianin (0.39±0.02g/plant material) and ellagic acid (1.56±0.01g/ plant material) than A.persica.

Eficacia antiparasitaria in vitro del extracto de quebracho (Schinopsis balansae) sobre larvas infectantes de Haemonchus contortus de ovinos / In vitro antiparasitic efficacy of the quebracho extract (Schinopsis balansae) on infecting larvae of Haemonchus contortus of sheep

RESUMEN El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar in vitro la eficacia del extracto de quebracho (Schinopsis spp.), rico en taninos condensados, en el control de H. contortus de ovinos, ya que existen evidencias de que estos taninos pueden reducir la excreción de huevos, la fecundidad de las hembras y la carga de parásitos adultos. Para evaluar el efecto antihelmíntico in vitro sobre larvas infectantes de H. contortus susceptibles a todos los grupos químicos, se utilizó el test de inhibición de migración larval (IML) a 3 concentraciones diferentes (5 mg/ml, 15 mg/ml y 30 mg/ml). El efecto de los tratamientos fue analizado mediante un análisis de varianza y la estimación de las diferencias entre grupos se realizó por medio de la prueba LSD Fisher. Los resultados del test in vitro demostraron una reducción de la migración larval que varió entre el 74% y el 80%, a las concentraciones de entre 5 mg/ml y 30 mg/ml. Del análisis de varianza surgen diferencias significativas entre tratamientos (p = 0,0494). Al realizar la prueba de comparación de medias se evidenciaron diferencias significativas (p < 0,05) entre los promedios de migración a las diluciones de 5 mg/ml y 15 mg/ml, y de 5 mg/ml y 30 mg/ml, mientras que no se detectaron diferencias significativas entre la dilución de 15 mg/ml y 30 mg/ml. Estos resultados señalaron que el extracto de quebracho, a las diluciones evaluadas in vitro, presentó actividad antihelmíntica sobre larvas L3 susceptibles de H. contortus. Sin embargo, se requiere ampliar los estudios in vivo para demostrar un efecto antihelmíntico en ovinos.

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate in vitro efficacy of the quebracho extract (Schinopsis spp.), rich in condensed tannins, against H. contortus in sheep, since there is evidence that this tanninsthese tannins can reduce egg excretion, fecundity of females and the burden of adult parasites. A larval migration inhibition (IML) test with 3 different concentration (5 mg/ml, 15 mg/ml, and 30 mg/ml) was used to evaluate the in vitro anthelmintic effect upon iInfective H. contortus larvae,from a susceptible strain to all chemical groupswere utilized with 3 diferentconcentration (5mg/ml, 15mg/ml, and 30mg/ml). The effect of the treatments was submitted to a variance analysis and the estimation of the differences between groups was evaluated using LSD Fisher test. Results from the in vitro test, revealed a reduction of the larval migration that varies from 74% to 80%, at the concentrations between 5 mg/ml to 30 mg/ml. From the analysis of variance, significant differences appear between treatments (p = 0,0494). After When performing the mean comparison test were performed, significant differences (p < 0,05) were found between the migration averages at dilutions of 5 mg/ml and 15 mg/ml, and between 5 mg/ml and 30 mg/ml, while were no't detected significant differences between the dilution of 15 mg/ml and 30 mg/ml. These results indicated that quebracho extract at the dilutions evaluated in vitro showed anthelmintic activity on L3 susceptible to H. contortus. However, it is necessary to conduct further studies in vivo to demonstrate an anthelmintic effect in sheep.

Avaliação do crescimento de micro-organismos fotossintetizantes em fotobiorreator tubular empregando nutrientes provenientes da vinhaça tratada / Evaluation of the growth of photosynthetic microorganisms in tubular photobioreactor using nutrients from treated vinasse

vinhaça é resultante da produção de álcool, após a fermentação do mosto e destilação do vinho. É um resíduo rico em nutrientes, principalmente matéria orgânica, nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio. Para ser despejado em rios e lagos, esse efluente deve passar por tratamentos para remoção desses nutrientes, pois o excesso desses elementos nos corpos hídricos poderia levar a grandes problemas ambientais, de modo que tem sido utilizado em fertirrigação. Microorganismos fotossintetizantes absorvem nutrientes inorgânicos, podendo absorver nutrientes de águas residuais. Se for removida a parte orgânica da vinhaça, a fração inorgânica ou com baixa carga orgânica pode ser a base ou o próprio meio de cultivo destes micro-organismos, que absorvem gás carbônico e sua biomassa é de interesse industrial. Neste contexto, foi estudado o cultivo de Monoraphidium contortum e Synechocystis salina, oriundos de água de mangue, em frascos de Erlenmeyer e em fotobiorreatores tubulares por processo descontínuo, empregando a vinhaça proveniente do tratamento aeróbio (biológico), acoplada a processos físico-químicos, com diferentes diluições. As características físico-químicas das vinhaças tratadas foram avaliadas. Além disso, foram comparados os crescimentos celulares nas diferentes condições experimentais adotadas para o crescimento da microalga M. contortum e da cianobactéria S. salina na vinhaça tratada com e sem diluição. Em cultivos em frascos de Erlenmeyer, em meio proveniente de tratamento biológico, o crescimento celular não diferiu do cultivo em meio padrão, com diluições de 5 e 2 vezes da vinhaça tratada para M. contortum e S. salina, respectivamente. Em fotobiorreator tubular, independente do tratamento ser apenas biológico ou também com carvão ativado, as concentrações celulares máximas (Xm) de M. contortum e S. salina foram da ordem de 1,86x107 células mL-1 e 7,90x106 células mL-1, respectivamente, valores esses menores que os obtidos em meio padrão, com valores de Xm de 2,69x107 células mL-1 e 1,27x106 células mL-1 para M. contortum e S. salina, respectivamente. Em fotobiorreatores tubulares, os teores de mínimos de lipídios de M. contortum e S. salina foram de 33,4 % e 11,0 %, respectivamente. Adicionalmente, os teores mínimos de proteínas da microalga foram de 15,1 % e da cianobactéria foi de 23,2 %

The vinasse is the result of the production of alcohol after the fermentation of the mash and the distillation of the wine. It is a waste rich in nutrients, mainly organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. To be discharged into rivers and lakes, this effluent must be treated in order to remove nutrients, because the excess of these elements in water bodies can lead to major environmental problems, so that it has been used in fertigation. Photosynthetic microorganisms absorb inorganic nutrients and they can absorb nutrients from wastewater. If the organic fraction of vinasse is removed, the inorganic or low organic fraction may be the basis or a medium of cultivation of these microorganisms, which absorb carbon dioxide and its biomass is of industrial interest. In this context, Monoraphidium contortum and Synechocystis salina from mangrove water were cultivated in Erlenmeyer flasks and in tubular photobioreactors by batch process using vinasse from aerobic biological treatment, coupled to physicochemical treatments with different dilutions. The physicochemical characteristics of the treated vinasse were evaluated. In addition, cell growth was compared under different experimental conditions adopted for growth of microalgae M. contortum and cyanobacteria S. salina in vinasse treated with and without dilution. In Erlenmeyer flask cultivations, in medium from the biological treatment, the cell growth was not different of that one in standard medium cultivation, with dilutions of 5 and 2 times the vinasse treated for M. contortum and S. salina, respectively. In the tubular photobioreactor, irrespective if the treatment is only biological or also is carried out treatment with activated charcoal, they were obtained maximum cell concentrations (Xm) of M. contortum and S. salina of 1.86x107 cells mL-1 and 7.90x106 cells. mL-1 , respectively, lower than the standard, whose Xm values were 2.69x107 cells mL-1 and 1.27x106 cells mL-1 for M. contortum and S. salina, respectively. In tubular photobioreactors, the minimum lipid contents of M. contortum and S. salina were 33.4 % and 11.0 %, respectively. In addition, the minimum protein content of microalgae was 15.1 % and cyanobacterium was 23.2 %

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis: evaluación de la sensibilidad antibiótica in vitro / Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis: Evaluation of antibiotics susceptibility in vitro

Resumen Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron estudiar la sensibilidad antibiótica de aislamientos de Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis procedentes de pequeños rumiantes e investigar la presencia de integrones que contienen genes de resistencia. Se estudiaron 15 aislamientos de diferentes fuentes por los métodos de difusión y dilución. Por el método de difusión, amoxicilina-clavulánico, ampicilina, cefotaxima, cefoxitina, ciprofloxacina, cloranfenicol, eritromicina, estreptomicina, gentamicina, imipenem, kanamicina, norfloxacina, penicilina, rifampicina, tetraciclina, trimetroprima-sulfametoxazol y vancomicina fueron activos frente al 100% de los aislamientos, mientras que amicacina presentó resultados variables. En los aislamientos que desarrollaron frente a amicacina se investigó la presencia de integrones de clase 1. El resultado fue negativo, sugiriendo la ausencia del integrón. Utilizando el método de dilución, los antibióticos más activos correspondieron a los grupos de cefalosporinas, gluco-péptidos, macrólidos, quinolonas y tetraciclinas. Se demostró menor actividad de p-lactámicos y aminoglucósidos. No se registró variabilidad en los perfiles antibióticos en los aislamientos procedentes de diferentes fuentes.

Abstract The aims of this work were to study the antibiotic susceptibility in Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis isolated from small ruminants and to determine the presence of integrons that contain resistance genes. Fifteen isolates of different sources were analysed using the diffusion and the dilution methods. When the diffusion method was performed, amoxicillin-clavulanic, ampicillin, cefotaxime, cefoxitin, ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, streptomycin, gentamicin, imipenem, kanamycin, norfloxacin, penicillin, rifampicin, tetracycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and vancomycin were effective against the 100% of isolates, while amikacin showed variable results. The isolates that were able to grow with amikacin, were studied in relation to the presence of integron class 1. The result was negative, suggesting the absence of integron. Using dilution method, the antibiotics belonging to the cephalosporin, glycopeptide, macrolide, quinolone, and tetracycline groups were the most active ones for the C. pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis isolates. Less activity of p-lactam and aminoglycosides were observed. There was no observation of variability in the antibiotic patterns in the strains coming from different sources.

Segurança da vacina de febre amarela em pacientes comprovadamente alérgicos à proteína do ovo / Safety of yellow fever vaccine in egg allergic patients

Introdução: A vacina de febre amarela, recomendada em áreas endêmicas, é contraindicada em alérgicos à proteína do ovo (APO) por ser cultivada em ovos de galinha embrionados. Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi mostrar a segurança da vacina de febre amarela em pacientes comprovadamente APO. Método: Foi realizado estudo prospectivo em hospital quaternário, no período de janeiro a outubro de 2018. Foram incluídos pacientes com APO confirmada por teste de provocação oral (TPO), reação anafilática à proteína do ovo nos últimos 6 meses, ou reação de APO nos últimos 2 meses associada à IgE específica positiva. Todos foram submetidos ao teste de puntura com a vacina na apresentação pura. Se negativo, realizado teste intradérmico (ID) com a vacina na diluição de 1:100. Se ID negativo, vacina aplicada em dose plena. Se teste de puntura ou ID positivo, vacina aplicada fracionada segundo protocolo de dessensibilização. Resultados: Dos 78 pacientes com história presumida de APO, confirmou-se o diagnóstico em 43 (30M:13F, mediana idade 2,7 a): 30 por TPO, 7 com anafilaxia em menos de 6 meses da vacina, e 6 com reação imediata após ingestão do ovo há menos de 2 meses e IgE específica positiva. Durante o TPO, 12 apresentaram anafilaxia, e os demais (18) apresentaram urticária e/ou angioedema ou vômitos. Todos os testes de puntura (43) foram negativos. ID foi negativo em 37 pacientes, que receberam a dose plena da vacina, sem reações. Apenas 6 apresentaram ID positivo e necessitaram dessensibilização para vacina. Metade desses pacientes (3/6) apresentou reações de hipersensibilidade leves e foi tratada com anti-H1 e/ou corticoide oral. O ID positivo foi significativamente relacionado à reação à vacina (p = 0,0016). Conclusão: Concluiuse ser possível vacinar alérgicos a ovo, com um protocolo seguro, mesmo em paciente comprovadamente anafilático. É necessária uma unidade especializada para sua realização, com capacidade de controlar possíveis situações de risco.

Introduction: The yellow fever vaccine (YFV) is recommended in endemic areas, but represents a risk for egg allergic (EA) patients, as it is cultivated in chicken embryos. Objective: This study aimed to describe the outcomes of YFV in patients with confirmed egg allergy. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in a quaternary hospital, from January to October 2018. EA was diagnosed through oral food challenge (OFC) or recent history of anaphylaxis following egg contact in the past 6 months or allergic reaction in the past 2 months with positive specific immunoglobulin E (IgE). Skin prick testing (SPT) with YFV was performed in all participants. If SPT was negative, an intradermal test (IDT) was performed at 1:100 dilution. If IDT was negative, a full dose of YFV was administered. If SPT was positive, the YFV was administered using a graded-dose protocol. Results: Among 78 patients with prior history of EA, 43 were confirmed (30 male to 13 female, median age of 2.7 years). Thirty patients had a positive OFC, seven reported recent anaphylaxis, and six had reactions in the past 2 months with positive specific IgE. During OFC, 12 patients had anaphylaxis and 18 had urticaria and/or angioedema or vomiting. SPT with YFV was negative in all patients (43). IDT was negative in 37 patients, who received a full dose of YFV, uneventfully. Six patients had a positive IDT and received the YFV in graded doses; half of them had a mild reaction controlled with antihistamines and three patients received the vaccine without reactions. Positive IDT was significantly related to vaccine reaction (p=0.0016). Conclusion: The YFV using a specific protocol was safe even in anaphylactic patients. An appropriate setting is required in order to control possible adverse events.

Provocation test with 5% glycerol has fast and fleeting effects on the nasal mucosa / Teste de provocação com glicerol 5%: efeito rápido e fugaz na mucosa nasal

The effects observed with nasal provocation testing using 5% glycerol were associated only with irritation/burning sensation within the first few minutes, reducing spontaneously and disappearing quickly. The use of 5% glycerol was found to have no influence on the prevalence of nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, sneezing and nasal/ocular itching obtained through summing symptoms, as evaluated in different nasal provocation tests, after 15-20 minutes. Overall, dilution with 5% glycerol did not change the final score for symptoms during nasal provocation testing.

Os efeitos observados com glicerol a 5% na provocação nasal foram associados unicamente a irritação e sensação de prurido nos primeiros minutos, cedendo espontaneamente e desaparecendo rapidamente. O uso de glicerol a 5% não influenciou a prevalência de obstrução nasal, rinorreia, espirros e prurido nasal e ocular obtidos na soma dos sintomas, quando avaliado em diferentes testes de provocação nasal específica, após 15-20 minutos. Tomada em conjunto, essa diluição com glicerol a 5% não altera a pontuação final dos sintomas durante a provocação nasal.

Consecuencias de la selección inadecuada de la ecuación de estimación de la tasa de filtración glomerular / Consequences of inadequate selection of estimated glomerular filtration rate equation / Consequências da seleção inadequada da equação de estimação da taxa de filtração glomerular

El objetivo del trabajo consistió en evaluar, en una muestra de estudiantes, las consecuencias sobre la Tasa de Filtración Glomerular estimada (TFGe) por MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS y CKD-EPI producidas por la selección inadecuada de las fórmulas según la trazabilidad de la creatininemia utilizada y valorar el efecto sobre la categorización por estadio G de TFG al utilizar valores numéricos de MDRD-4 y MDRD-4 IDMS≥60 mL/min/1,73 m². Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, analítico, de corte transversal con 100 alumnos de bioquímica, que participaron voluntariamente. Se determinó la creatininemia por métodos Jaffé cinéticos, valores trazables y no trazables al Isotopic Dilution Mass Spectroscopy (IDMS). La TFGe se calculó por las fórmulas MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS y CKD-EPI introduciendo en cada fórmula valores de creatinina trazables y no trazables a IDMS. Los estudiantes se clasificaron por categoría G según los resultados. El mal empleo de las ecuaciones respecto a la trazabilidad de la creatininemia según fueron diseñadas cambió sensiblemente los valores de TFGe (p<0,05) y la proporción de jóvenes por estadio G respecto a lo hallado con el empleo adecuado (MDRD-4. G1: 67,4% vs. 53,7%; G2: 32,6% vs. 45,3%; G3a: 0,0% vs. 1,0%. MDRD-4 IDMS. G1: 37,9% vs. 59,0%; G2: 56,8% vs. 40,0%; G3a: 5,3% vs. 1,0%. CKD-EPI. G1: 70,5% vs. 85,3%; G2: 29,5% vs. 14,7%). El uso de valores numéricos para TFGe por MDRD-4 y MDRD-4 IDMS≥60 mL/min/1,73 m² infraestimó lo obtenido con CKD-EPI, que puede informarse numéricamente en ese rango. Ambas situaciones conllevan errores que afectan la categorización funcional renal de pacientes y la prevalencia en estudios epidemiológicos.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the consequences on the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) by MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS and CKD-EPI produced by the inadequate equation selection according to the creatinine traceability in a sample of biochemistry students and to assess the effect on G categorization if numerical values of the MDRD-4 and MDRD-4 IDMS equations≥60 mL/ min/1.73 m² were used. A descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study was performed between 2014- 2016, 100 volunteer students of biochemistry were studied. Creatininemia was determined by kinetic Jaffé methods, traceable and non-traceable to Isotopic Dilution Mass Spectroscopy (IDMS). The eGFR was estimated by the MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS and CKD-EPI formula, by feeding each formula with traceable and non traceable creatinine values to IDMS. Students were classified by category G according to the results obtained. Inappropriate equation use regarding the traceability of the creatinine for which they were designed significantly changed eGFR values (p<0.05) and the proportion of young people per G stage compared to what was found with adequate use (MDRD-4. G1: 67.4% vs. 53.7%; G2: 32.6% vs. 45.3%; G3a: 0.0% vs. 1.0%. MDRD-4 IDMS. G1: 37.9% vs. 59.0%; G2: 56.8% vs. 40.0%; G3a: 5.3% vs. 1.0%. CKD-EPI. G1: 70.5% vs. 85.3%; G2: 29.5% vs. 14.7%). The use of numerical values for eGFR by MDRD-4 and MDRD-4 IDMS≥60mL/min/1.73 m² underestimated what was obtained with CKD-EPI, which can be reported numerically in that range. Both situations involve errors that affect patient renal functional categorization and prevalence in epidemiological studies.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar as consequências sobre a Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada (TFGe) por MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS e CKD-EPI produzidas pela seleção inadequada das fórmulas, segundo a rastreabilidade da creatininemia utilizada e o efeito sobre a categorização por estágio G de TFG ao utilizar valores numéricos de MDRD-4 e MDRD-4 IDMS≥60 mL/min/1,73 m². Este é um estudo descritivo, analítico e de corte transversal com 100 alunos de bioquímica, que participaram em forma voluntária. Foi determinada a creatininemia através do métodos Jaffé cinéticos, valores rastreáveis e não rastreáveis ao Isotopic Dilution Mass Spectroscopy (IDMS). A TFGe foi estimada pela fórmula MDRD-4, MDRD-4 IDMS e CKD-EPI introduzindo em cada fórmula valores de creatinina rastreáveis e não rastreáveis a IDMS. Os estudantes foram classificados por categoria G conforme os resultados. Uso indevido das equações a respeito da rastreabilidade da creatinina conforme foram desenhadas, mudou sensivelmente os valores de TFGe (p<0,05) e a proporção de jovens por estágio G em relação ao encontrado com o uso adequado adecuado (MDRD-4. G1: 67,4% vs. 53,7%; G2: 32,6% vs. 45,3%; G3a: 0,0% vs. 1,0%. MDRD-4 IDMS. G1: 37,9% vs. 59,0%; G2: 56,8% vs. 40,0%; G3a: 5,3% vs. 1,0%. CKD-EPI. G1: 70,5% vs. 85,3%; G2: 29,5% vs. 14,7%). Utilizar valores numéricos para TFGe por MDRD-4 e MDRD-4 IDMS≥60mL/min/1,73 m² infraestimou o obtido com CKD-EPI, que pode informar-se numericamente nesse intervalo. Ambas as situações conduzem a erros que afetam a categorização funcional renal de pacientes e a prevalência em estudos epidemiológicos.

Use of alternative extender added of fructose aiming the cryopreservation of boar semen / Utilização de diluente alternativo acrescido de frutose visando à criopreservação de sêmen suíno

This study aimed to analyze skimmed milk powder (SMP) and fructose in a new cooling curve to freeze boar semen. A total of 49 semen samples from seven boars were cryopreserved using the new curve with addition of glucose and fructose to the refrigerating diluents: Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS + G; BTS + F) and Skimmed milk powder (SMP + G; SMP + F), totaling four experimental groups for analysis. To finish the curve, aliquots of semen were packaged in 0.5 ml straws and kept in liquid nitrogen. During the cooling curve, SMP mean spermatic vigor and motility were greater than the BTS (p < 0.05). After thawing, a decrease of spermatic force and motility in both extenders was observed, where the BTS presented spermatic vigor (2.1 ± 0.55) and motility (38 ± 21.8), presenting better results (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between sugars added to the BTS and SMP in spermatic force and motility (p > 0.05), although the use of fructose allowed an equalization of motility between the SMP and BTS (p > 0.05). Functionality of membrane was better preserved with the addition of fructose, in both extenders. The rate of sperm viability was significantly higher in extender containing glucose and SMP (71.8 ± 12.5). The percentage of intact acrosome was higher on the treatment containing glucose, independent of the extender (BTS + G: 81.8 ± 7.2, SMP + G: 81.4 ± 14.2). To conclude, the results suggest that the BTS is still the best option to cryopreserve and fructose could be used in boar semen cryopreservation in new cooling curve.(AU)

O presente trabalho analisou o emprego do leite em pó desnatado (LPD) adicionado de frutose em uma nova curva de resfriamento para criopreservação de sêmen suíno. Um total de 49 ejaculados, de sete varrões foram criopreservados utilizando a nova curva de resfriamento com glicose e frutose adicionada aos diluentes Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS + D; BTS + F) e Leite em pó desnatado (LPD + D; LPD + F), totalizando quatro grupos experimentais para análises. Ao final da curva, as alíquotas de sêmen foram envasadas em palhetas de 0,5 mL e mantidas em nitrogênio líquido. Durante a curva de resfriamento, a média de vigor e motilidade espermática do LPD foi maior do que do BTS (p < 0.05). Após descongelação, observou-se queda do vigor e motilidade em ambos diluentes, com o BTS apresentando melhores resultados de vigor (2,1 ± 0,55) e de motilidade (38 ± 21,8) (p < 0,05). Entretanto, o uso da frutose permitiu equiparação dos valores da motilidade entre LPD e BTS (p > 0,05). A funcionalidade de membrana foi melhor preservada com adição da frutose, em ambos os diluentes. Os dados de vitalidade espermática foram significativamente maiores no diluente contendo glicose e LPD (71,8 ± 12,5). A porcentagem de acrossomas intactos foi maior no tratamento que continha glicose, independentemente do diluente utilizado (BTS + G: 81,8 ± 7,2, SMP + G: 81,4 ± 14,2). Os resultados obtidos indicaram que o BTS, ainda é a melhor opção de criopreservação e que a frutose pode ser utilizada para criopreservação de sêmen de varrão na nova curva de resfriamento.(AU)

Ciclos de inseminación artificial con semen de donante / Artificial insemination cycles with donor sperm

No disponible

Fluconazole-containing agar Sabouraud dextrose plates are not useful when screening for susceptibility in Candida albicans / Las placas de agar dextrosado de Sabouraud con fluconazol no son útiles para la detección de resistencia en Candida albicans

Introduction. Fluconazole is an alternative for candidemic patients who are not critically ill. Fluconazole is mainly fungistatic and does not completely inhibit visual Candida albicans growth. We studied the usefulness of fluconazolecontaining Sabouraud dextrose agar plates for detecting susceptibility to fluconazole in C. albicans. Material and methods. Adjusted inocula of 19 isolates were transferred directly onto fluconazole-containing Sabouraud dextrose plates (concentrations ranging from 0.125 mg/L to 128 mg/L). The fluconazole MIC in fresh isolates and after growth on the fluconazole-containing plate at 128 mg/L was recorded following the EUCAST EDef 7.2 guidelines. Then isolates were classified according to their degree of trailing production, based on microdilution procedure. Results. All isolates were able to grow on all fluconazolecontaining plates, even those isolates susceptible to fluconazole. In fact, we selected isolates with different degrees of trailing based on microdilution procedures. 50% of isolates classified as heavy trailers, 35.71% as moderate trailers, and 14.28% as slight trailers. Conclusions. The use of fluconazole-containing Sabouraud dextrose agar plates was not a reliable method to detect fluconazole susceptibility in C. albicans isolates; growth of the isolates was a trailing effect rather than true resistance (AU)

Introducción. Fluconazol es el antifúngico de elección en pacientes con candidemia que no están en estado crítico. Fluconazol es un fármaco fungistático y no inhibe por completo el crecimiento de Candida albicans. En este estudio se evalúa la posibilidad de emplear placas de agar dextrosado de Sabouraud con diferentes concentraciones de fluconazol como método para evaluar la sensibilidad a este fármaco de aislados de C. albicans. Material y métodos. El inóculo ajustado procedente de 19 aislados de C. albicans se transfirió directamente a placas que contenían concentraciones de fluconazol comprendidas entre 0,125 mg/L y 128 mg/L. La CMI de fluconazol se calculó en los aislados originales y en los aislados crecidos en la placa de fluconazol de 128 mg/L, según el protocolo de EUCAST EDef 7.2. Los aislados se clasificaron según su grado de producción de efecto de arrastre, siguiendo el procedimiento de microdilución. Resultados. Todos los aislados fueron capaces de crecer en todas las placas con diferentes concentraciones de fluconazol, incluso las cepas sensibles. Los aislados mostraron diferentes grados de efecto de arrastre. El 50% de los aislados se clasificaron como altamente productores, el 35,71% como moderadamente productores y el 14,28% como poco productores de efecto de arrastre. Conclusión. El uso de placas de agar dextrosado de Sabouraud con fluconazol no demostró ser un método útil para el estudio de la sensibilidad de C. albicans a este fármaco ya que el crecimiento de los aislados fue interpretado como efecto de arrastre y no como una verdadera resistencia (AU)

Determinação da susceptibilidade de Candida spp. de amostras de hemoculturas de pacientes atendidos no Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto / Determination of the susceptibility of Candida spp. Of blood samples from patients treated at Hospital das Clínicas of the Medical School of Ribeirão Preto

Os fungos podem ser classificados como patogênicos e oportunistas. Um exemplo de oportunista é o gênero Candida spp., cujas principais espécies de interesse médico são: Candida glabrata, Candida dubliniensis, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis e Candida albicans. Elas são grandes causadoras de infecção hospitalar. Existem cinco classes de antifúngicos, são eles os azólicos, as equinocandinas, os poliênicos, os análogos da pirimidina e as alilaminas. Os poliênicos são drogas que atuam na membrana da célula fúngica, um exemplo dessa classe é a Anfotericina B...

Osmolality and composition of the extender during the cold storage of Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) sperm

This study evaluates the effects of extender osmolality and composition on the cooling of Prochilodus lineatus sperm. Sperm was diluted in six extenders: two compositions (powdered coconut water(tm) = ACP; Beltsville Thawing Solution(tm) = BTS) x three osmolalities (285, 325, and 365 mOsm/kg) plus an undiluted control, and stored at 6-8°C. Motility rate and velocities (curvilinear, straight line, and average path) were determined every other day. Osmolality did not affect the quality of cooled sperm, thus data were pooled. Motility was higher on d 0 compared to the other days and diluted samples (85-90%) yielded higher motility than control (75%). On d 2, motility was higher in BTS-diluted samples and control, but on d 4 and 6, control yielded the highest motility. Velocities decreased from d 0 to 6 in diluted samples, but not in control. On d 0, velocities were higher in BTS-diluted sperm, but, on d 2, 4, and 6, control yielded higher velocities despite of the large variation among males. Thus P. lineatus sperm should be stored in BTS or without dilution, for a maximum of two days at 6-8°C. Extender osmolality between 285 and 365 mOsm/kg does not affect sperm quality during cold storage...

Neste trabalho avaliou-se os efeitos da osmolalidade e da composição do diluidor no sêmen de Prochilodus lineatus, após o resfriamento. O sêmen foi diluído em seis diluidores: duas composições (água de coco em pó(r) = ACP; Beltsville Thawing Solution(r) = BTS) x três osmolalidades (285, 325 e 365 mOsm/kg) mais uma alíquota sem diluição como controle e armazenadas a 6-8°C. A taxa de motilidade e velocidades (curvilinear, retilinear e média de percurso) foram determinadas a cada dois dias. A osmolalidade não afetou a qualidade do sêmen resfriado, dessa forma foi feito um 'pool' desses dados. A motilidade foi maior no d 0 comparado aos outros dias e as amostras diluídas (85-90%) apresentaram as maiores motilidades do que o controle (75%). No d 2, a motilidade foi maior nas amostras diluídas em BTS e controle, mas nos d 4 e 6, o sêmen controle apresentou as maiores motilidades. As velocidades diminuíram do d 0 para o d 6 nas amostras diluídas, mas não no controle. No d 0, as velocidades foram maiores nas amostras diluídas em BTS, mas, nos d 2, 4 e 6, o controle apresentou as maiores velocidades apesar da grande variação entre os machos. Assim, o sêmen de P. lineatus deve ser resfriado em BTS ou sem diluição (controle), por no máximo dois dias a 6-8°C. A osmolalidade do diluidor entre 285 e 365 mOsm/kg não afeta a qualidade do sêmen durante o resfriamento...

Triagem de vários excipientes para compressão direta: uma nova perspectiva com base nas propriedades funcionais / Screening of several excipients for direct compression of tablets: a new perspective based on functional properties

Os excipientes são materiais amplamente utilizados para formular fármacos através de compressão direta. No entanto, as propriedades do pó e compressão desses materiais são afetadas pela presença de lubrificantes e ingredientes ativos. Este estudo utilizou uma metodologia para avaliar a eficácia destes materiais como agentes de compressão direta. O efeito de três lubrificantes (estearato de magnésio, ácido esteárico e talco) na compressibilidade e compactação dos materiais foi avaliado pelo índice de compressibilidade e sensibilidade do lubrificante, respectivamente. Da mesma forma, a capacidade da diluição foi avaliada com um fármaco pouco compressível como o acetaminofeno. Finalmente, a recuperação elástica dos comprimidos foi avaliada aos cinco dias após a produção. Todos os lubrificantes aumentaram a compressibilidade destes materiais e a sua fluidez. No entanto, os lubrificantes hidrofóbicos, tais como o estearato de magnésio tem um efeito negativo sobre a compactação, em especial em materiais plásticos com uma superfície lisa, como o amido 1500. O amido de arroz e de mandioca e ácido algínico apresentaram a maior recuperação elástica (> 5%), indicando uma elevada tendência para a laminação. Além disso, os materiais plásticos com alta deformação, tais como o sorbitol, e polivinilpirrolidona (PVP-K30), exibiram a melhor potencial de diluição (~10%), enquanto que o ácido algínico mostrou um valor muito elevado (~ 70%). Em termos de desempenho, o sorbitol, o PVP-K30, alginato de sódio, Avicel PH-101, e de amido pré-gelatinizado são os materiais mais adequados para a compressão direta de fármacos.

Excipients are widely used to formulate solid drug forms by direct compression. However, the powder-forming and tableting properties of these excipients are affected by the presence of lubricants and active ingredients. In this study, a screening methodology was employed to test the performance of an excipient for direct compression. The effects of three lubricants (magnesium stearate, stearic acid and talc) on the compressibility and compaction of these excipients were assessed by the compressibility index and lubricant sensitivity ratio, respectively. Likewise, the dilution potential in blends with a poorly compactible drug such as acetaminophen was also assessed. Finally, the elastic recovery of tablets was evaluated five days after production. All lubricants increased the compressibility of these excipients and improved their flowability. However, hydrophobic lubricants such as magnesium stearate had a marked negative effect on compactibility, especially in plastic-deforming and more regularly-shaped materials with a smooth surface such as Starch 1500. Alginic acid, rice and cassava starches had the largest elastic recovery (>5%), indicating a tendency to cap. Moreover, highly plastic deforming materials such as sorbitol and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP-K30) exhibited the best dilution potential (~10%), whereas alginic acid showed a very high value (~70%). In terms of performance, sorbitol, PVP-K30, Avicel PH-101, sodium alginate and pregelatinized starch were the most appropriate excipients for the direct compression of drugs.

Antimicrobial activity of some medicinal plants from the cerrado of the central-western region of Brazil

Ethanol extracts from six selected species from the Cerrado of the Central-Western region of Brazil, which are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of infectious diseases and other medical conditions, namely Erythroxylum suberosum St. Hil. (Erythroxylaceae), Hyptis crenata Pohl. ex Benth. (Lamiaceae), Roupala brasiliensis Klotz. (Proteaceae), Simarouba versicolor St. Hil. (Simaroubaceae), Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. (Sterculiaceae) and Protium heptaphyllum (Aubl.) March. (Burseraceae), as well as fractions resulting from partition of these crude extracts, were screened in vitro for their antifungal and antibacterial properties. The antimicrobial activities were assessed by the broth microdilution assay against six control fungal strains, Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis and Cryptococcus neoformans, and five control Gram-positive and negative bacterial strains, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Toxicity of the extracts and fractions against Artemia salina was also evaluated in this work. All plants investigated showed antimicrobial properties against at least one microorganism and two species were also significantly toxic to brine shrimp larvae. The results tend to support the traditional use of these plants for the treatment of respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders and/or skin diseases, opening the possibility of finding new antimicrobial agents from these natural sources.Among the species investigated, Hyptis crenata, Erythroxylum suberosum and Roupala brasiliensis were considered the most promising candidates for developing of future bioactivity-guided phytochemical investigations.

¿Es necesario conocer qué trabajadores son portadores de SARM en contacto con enfermos oncológicos? / Is it necessary to know which workers are carriers of MRSA in contact with cancer patients?

Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia de Staphylococcus aureus resistente a meticilina (SARM) en los trabajadores que tuvieron contacto directo con enfermos oncológicos infectados por SARM e ingresados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Instituto Valenciano de Oncología. La prevalencia de colonización por SARM se estudió en 62 trabajadores. Las muestras obtenidas de las fosas nasales y faringe (n= 124) fueron incubadas durante 24 horas en medio de transporte Amies Viscosa (Eurotubo®) y después sembradas en agar chocolate, agar MRSA II y caldo Brain Heart Infusion. Las colonias que se identificaron mediante la tinción de Gram como cocos gram-positivos con disposición en racimos, catalasa positiva y coagulasa positiva, se procesaron para estudio de sensibilidad mediante el método de Kirby-Bauer y prueba de cribado de la meticilina (10 µg de Oxoid®) en Mueller-Hinton (Becton-Dickinson®, BD), suplementado con NaCl (2%). A los aislamientos de SARM confirmados, se les volvió a realizar estudio de sensibilidad mediante microdilución (MicroScan® de Siemens), para determinar las CMI (mg/L). La prevalencia de SARM fue del 1,61% (1 trabajador) y 12,90% (8 trabajadores) para Staphylococcus aureus sensible a meticilina (SASM), procedentes de fosas nasales. Las medidas adoptadas fueron: aplicación de mupirocina nasal al trabajador colonizado, control de las medidas de aislamiento en los pacientes colonizados y/o infectados y adoctrinamiento al personal relacionado(AU)

Our objective was to determine the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in workers who had direct contact with oncologic patients infected with MRSA and admitted to the intensive care unit of the Valencian Institute of Oncology. A study of prevalence of MRSA colonization of 62 workers was performed. Samples were taken from nose and pharynx in each of the workers. After 24 hours of incubation in Amies transport medium Viscose (Eurotubo®), 124 samples were seeded (N = 124) in chocolate agar agar, MRSA II and BHI broth (Brain Heart Infusion). Those colonies that were identified by Gram stain gram-positive cocci in clusters available, catalase positive and coagulase positive were processed for study of sensitivity by Kirby-Bauer method and screening test for methicillin (10ìg of Oxoid®) on Mueller-Hinton (Becton-Dickinson®, BD), supplemented with NaCl (2%). Those confirmed MRSA isolates, he returned to perform sensitivity study by microdilution (MicroScan®, Siemens) to determine the MIC (mg/L). The prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was 1.61% (1) and 12.90% (8) for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), from nostrils. The measures implemented were: nasal application of mupirocin to the worker colonized control isolation measures in infected patients and indoctrination of the personnel involved(AU)

Evaluation of the Sensititre Yeast One microdilution method for susceptibility testing of Candida species to anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin

Introducción. Las equinocandinas representan un nuevo grupo de antifúngicos con gran actividad frente a especies de Candida. El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar el método Sensititre Yeast One para determinar la actividad in vitro de anidulafungina, micafungina y caspofungina frente a especies de Candida aisladas de muestras clínicas. Métodos. Un total de 131 cepas de Candida identificadas como: 42 C. albicans, 36 C. glabrata, 21 C. parapsilosis, 12 C. tropicalis, 10 C. krusei, 3 C. guilliermondii, 2 C. famata, 3 C. kefyr, 1 C. lusitaniae, 1 C. zeylanoides y 1 C. lipolytica, fueron ensayadas mediante el método colorimétrico de microdilución Sensititre Yeast One. Se consideraron sensibles las cepas inhibidas por concentraciones <=2 mg/L de anidulafungina, caspofungina o micafungina. Resultados. El 80,1% de las cepas fueron inhibidas por concentraciones <=0,25 mg/L de anidulafungina y micafungina. La actividad de caspofungina fue ligeramente inferior (78,6% de las cepas inhibidas por concentraciones <=0,25 mg/L). El 96,9% de las cepas resultaron sensibles frente a las tres equinocandinas. Dos cepas de C. parapsilosis (9,5%), 1 de C. guilliermondii y 2 de C. famata no mostraron sensibilidad a una o más equinocandinas. Conclusiones. En nuestra serie, anidulafungina, micafungina y caspofungina fueron efectivas frente a C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. krusei, C. kefyr, C. lusitaniae y C. lipolytica. El 96,9% de las cepas fueron sensibles a las tres equinocandinas. Se puede afirmar que las equinocandinas tienen una excelente actividad frente a las especies de Candida más frecuentes en infecciones humanas, excepto Candida parapsilosis(AU)

Introduction. Echinocandins represent a new antifungal group with potent activity against Candida species. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the utility of the Sensititre Yeast One method to determine the in vitro activity of anidulafungin, micafungin, and caspofungin against Candida species isolated from clinical specimens. Methods. A total of 131 Candida strains were tested using Sensititre Yeast One colorimetric microdilution method. They belonged to the following species: 42 C. albicans, 36 C. glabrata, 21 C. parapsilosis, 12 C. tropicalis, 10 C. krusei, 3 C. guilliermondii, 2 C. famata, 3 C. kefyr, 1 C. lusitaniae, 1 C. zeylanoides, and 1 C. lipolytica. For being considered susceptible the strains had to be inhibited by concentrations <=2 mg/L of anidulafungin, caspofungin or micafungin. Results. The 80.1% of the strains tested were inhibited by concentrations <=0.25 mg/L of anidulafungin and micafungin. The activity of caspofungin was slightly lower (78.6% of strains inhibited by concentrations <=0.25 mg/L). The 96.9% of strains turned out susceptible to concentrations <=2 mg/L against the three echinocandins. Two strains of C. parapsilosis (9.5%), one of C. guilliermondii, and two of C. famata showed non-susceptible to one or more echinocandins. Conclusions. In our series, anidulafungin, micafungin, and caspofungin were effective against C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. krusei, C. kefyr, C. lusitaniae and C. lipolytica. The 96.9% of strains were susceptible to all three echinocandins. Thus, echinocandins are proved to exhibit excellent activity to the Candida species most frequently involved in human infections, except Candida parapsilosis(AU)

Discordancia en los resultados de sensibilidad mediante método de difusión en agar de aislados de Pseudomonas aeruginosa en pacientes con fibrosis quística tras pre-incubación anaerobia y su potencial relevancia clínica / Discrepancy in the disk diffusion susceptibility test of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from cystic fibrosis patients after anaerobic preincubation and its potential clinical relevance

Introducción. En la fibrosis quística las células de Pseudomonas aeruginosa crecen en el interior de la espesa mucosidad, y pese a ser un organismo aerobio estricto, se desarrolla en un ambiente donde la presión de oxígeno es muy limitada. Posibles movimientos de la masa mucosa podrían dejar expuestas de forma súbita a las células de P. aeruginosa a concentraciones altas de oxígeno. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar cómo afecta a la sensibilidad antibiótica de P. aeruginosa un período de incubación anaerobia. Material y métodos. Se emplearon 4 cepas de P. aeruginosa (NTCC 23389 y 3 aislados clínicos). Para la determinación de la sensibilidad antibiótica se empleó el método de difusión en agar. Resultados. La preincubación anaerobia produce cambios en la sensibilidad en todas las cepas estudiadas. Todas las cepas sensibles en aerobiosis resultaron también sensibles tras la incubación anaerobia a excepción de la cepa 2 para los betalactámicos. El tipo de respuesta resulta dependiente de cada cepa, siendo especialmente significativo el incremento en la sensibilidad observado en el caso de ciprofloxacino para dos de los tres aislados clínicos. Conclusiones. La sensibilidad de cepas P. aeruginosa varía si han sido previamente expuestas a condiciones de anaerobiosis. Tratamientos que favorezcan la fluidificación de la mucosidad podrían contribuir aumentando el éxito del tratamiento con ciertos antibióticos(AU)

Introduction. In cystic fibrosis, the Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells grow inside the thick mucus layer. In spite of being an obligate aerobe, P. aeruginosa is able to grow in a limited oxygen environment. Bacterial cells could be suddenly exposed to high oxygen levels due to the movements of the mucus mass. The aim of study was to determine the impact of a previous anaerobic incubation on the antimicrobial susceptibility of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from patients with cystic fibrosis. Materials and Methods. Four P. aeruginosa strains were used in this study (ATCC 23389 and 3 clinical isolates). The disk diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility. Results. The anaerobic pre-incubation produced changes on the susceptibility in all studied strains. All susceptible strains after an aerobic incubation remained susceptible after an anaerobic incubation except one clinical strain, which became resistant to betalactams. The response was strain-dependent and the most significant increase in susceptibility was observed in two of the three clinical isolates when ciprofloxacin was used. Conclusions. The antimicrobial susceptibility of P. aeruginosa strains varies after their exposure to anaerobic conditions. Treatments promoting mucus fluidization could contribute to increase the antimicrobial efficacy(AU)

Actividad antifúngica de la altenusina aislada del hongo endofítico Alternaria sp. frente al hongo patógeno Paracoccidioides brasiliensis / Antifungal activity of altenusin isolated from the endophytic fungus Alternaria sp. against the pathogenic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis

Antecedentes. La altenusina es un derivado bifenilo aislado de diferentes especies de hongos, que presenta una diversidad de actividades biológicas. Objetivos. Describimos la actividad antifúngica de la altenusina aislada del hongo endofítico Alternaria sp. frente a aislamientos clínicos de Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, y su acción sobre las paredes celulares de P. brasiliensis y la levadura no patógena Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Métodos. Se valoró la actividad antifúngica de la altenusina in vitro usando un método de microdilución en caldo frente a 11 cepas de P. brasiliensis y una cepa de S. pombe. Los efectos de la altenusina sobre la pared celular se estimaron utilizando un análisis de protección con sorbitol. Resultados. La altenusina presentó una potente actividad frente a P. brasiliensis con valores de concentración inhibitoria mínima (CIM) que variaron entre 1,9 y 31,2μg/ml, y de 62,5μg/ml para S. pombe. Los resultados del presente estudio demostraron que los valores CIM de la altenusina aumentaron para Pb18 de P. brasiliensis y para S. pombe cuando el medio se suplementó con sorbitol. Además, las células de S. pombe tratadas con altenusina adoptaron una forma más redondeada que las no tratadas. Conclusiones. Con la concentración examinada, la altenusina demostró actividad frente a las cepas clínicas de P. brasiliensis, y es probable que este preparado afecte a las paredes de las células micóticas. Estos hallazgos sugieren que la altenusina podría actuar a través de la inhibición de la síntesis o ensamblado de la pared celular en P. brasiliensis y S. pombe y podría considerarse la molécula inicial para el diseño de nuevos antimicóticos(AU)

Background. Altenusin is a biphenyl derivative isolated from different species of fungi, which presents several biological activities. Aims. We report the antifungal activity of the altenusin isolated from the endophytic fungus Alternaria sp., against clinical isolates of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, and its action on cell walls of P. brasiliensis and the nonpathogenic yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Methods. In vitro antifungal activity of altenusin was evaluated using the broth microdilution method against 11 strains of P. brasiliensis and one strain of S. pombe. The effects of the altenusin on the cell wall were estimated using the sorbitol protection assay. Results. The altenusin presented strong activity against P. brasiliensis with MIC values ranging between 1.9 and 31.2μg/ml, and 62.5μg/ml for S. pombe. Our results demonstrated that the MIC values for altenusin were increased for P. brasiliensis Pb18 and for S. pombe when the medium was supplemented with sorbitol. Additionally, S. pombe cells treated with altenusin were more rounded in shape than untreated cells. Conclusions. Altenusin showed activity against clinical strains of P. brasiliensis at the concentration tested, and this compound probably affects fungal cell walls. These findings suggest that altenusin could act through the inhibition of cell wall synthesis or assembly in P. brasiliensis and S. pombe, and could be considered as a lead compound for the design of new antifungals(AU)