Trypanosoma cruzi strains isolated from human, vector, and animal reservoir in the same endemic region in Mexico and typed as T. cruzi I, discrete typing unit 1 exhibit considerable biological diversity

In this study, three strains of Trypanosoma cruzi were isolated at the same time and in the same endemic region in Mexico from a human patient with chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (RyC-H); vector (Triatoma barberi) (RyC-V); and rodent reservoir (Peromyscus peromyscus) (RyC-R). The three strains were characterized by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis, random amplified polymorphic DNA, and by pathological profiles in experimental animals (biodemes). Based on the analysis of genetic markers the three parasite strains were typed as belonging to T. cruzi I major group, discrete typing unit 1. The pathological profile of RyC-H and RyC-V strains indicated medium virulence and low mortality and, accordingly, the strains should be considered as belonging to biodeme Type III. On the other hand, the parasites from RyC-R strain induced more severe inflammatory processes and high mortality (> 40%) and were considered as belonging to biodeme Type II. The relationship between genotypes and biological characteristics in T. cruzi strains is still debated and not clearly understood. An expert committee recommended in 1999 that Biodeme Type III would correspond to T. cruzi I group, whereas Biodeme Type II, to T. cruzi II group. Our findings suggest that, at least for Mexican isolates, this correlation does not stand and that biological characteristics such as pathogenicity and virulence could be determined by factors different from those identified in the genotypic characterization

Prevalence of HTLV-I and HTLV-II infections among HIV-1-infected asymptomatic individuals in São Paulo, Brazil

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1)-infected subjects with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are often infected with multiple pathogens. In particular, HTLV-I and HTLV-II infections have been found more frequently in AIDS patients than in asymptomatic individuals in Europe and Japan. We carried out a serosurvey among asymptomatic HIV-1-infected subjects in São Paulo, Brazil and compared our results with those of other investigators. In this study, we found HTLV infection in 1.5% of 266 asymptomatic and 14% of 28 AIDS patients. Epidemiological data obtained from patients pointed out the use of intravenous drugs as the principal risk factor for acquiring retroviruses. In conclusion, our results are in accordance with other studies done in Brazil and elsewhere where the principal risk group for HIV/HTLV-I/II coinfection was IDU

Immunofluorescence assay reactivity patterns of serum samples presenting indeterminate Western blot results for antibodies to HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II in Cordoba, Argentina

Serum samples (n: 110) from blood donors and high risk individuals from Cordoba, Argentina with indeterminate HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II Wb profiles were studied for specific antibodies to HTLV-I/II and HIV-1 by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and for the presence or absence of HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II specific bands by Wb. This study was carried out in order to characterize their putative reactions with HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II proteins and to resolve the retrovirus infection status of these individuals. Results indicated that blood donors sera displaying indeterminate HIV-1 or HTLV-I/II Wb patterns were not immunoreactive to HTLV-I/II and HIV-1 on IFA. However, a high rate of indeterminate HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II Wb samples from high risk individuals had positive HTLV-I/II and HIV-1 IFA results respectively. Our study supports the growing evidence that HTLV-HIV indeterminate seroreactivity in low risk population is due to a cross reaction against nonviral antigens, and in high risk populations the indeterminate samples show serological cross-recognition between HIV-1 proteins and HTLV-I/II proteins on Wb. These results point out the necessity to investigate the HTLV-I/II reactivity in indeterminate HIV-1 samples and viceversa in order to confirm the diagnosis. Finally, this study shows the potential usefulness of IFA in elucidating the status of HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II infection of individuals with indeterminate Wb profiles, thus enabling resolution of retrovirus infection status.

Freqüência das infecções pelo HIV-1, rubéola, sífilis, toxoplasmose, citomegalovírus, herpes simples, hepatite B, hepatite C, doença de Chagas e HTLV I/II em gestantes, do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul

Objetivou-se avaliar a freqüência das infecções por sífilis, rubéola, hepatite B, hepatite C, toxoplasmose, doença de Chagas, HTLV I/II, herpes simples, HIV-1 e citomegalovírus em gestantes e relacionar a faixa etária das pacientes com a freqüência das infecções. Estudo transversal de 32.512 gestantes submetidas à triagem pré-natal no período de novembro de 2002 a outubro de 2003. As freqüências encontradas foram de 0,2% para infecção pelo vírus HIV-1, 0,03% para rubéola, 0,8% para sífilis, 0,4% para toxoplasmose, 0,05% para infecção aguda pelo citomegalovírus, 0,02% pelo vírus herpes simples, 0,3% para hepatite B (HBsAg), 0,1% para hepatite C, 0,1% para HTLV I/II e 0,1% para doença de Chagas. Houve associação significativa entre faixa etária e infecções por rubéola, citomegalovírus, doença de Chagas e herpes vírus. As freqüências de rubéola, sífilis, toxoplasmose, doença de Chagas e citomegalovírus nas gestantes encontram-se abaixo dos valores descritos na literatura.

Serological Evidence of HTLV-I and HTLV-II Coinfections in HIV-1 Positive Patients in Belém, State of Pará, Brazil

The occurrence of HTLV-I/II and HIV-1 coinfections have been shown to be frequent, probably in consequence of their similar modes of transmission. This paper presents the prevalence of coinfection of HTLV among HIV-1 infected and AIDS patients in Belém, State of Pará, Brazil. A group of 149 patients attending the AIDS Reference Unit of the State Department of Health was tested for the presence of antibodies to HTLV-I/II using an enzyme immunoassay and the positive reactions were confirmed with a Western blot that discriminates between HTLV-I and HTLV-II infections. Four patients (2.7%) were positive to HTLV-I, seven (4.7%) to HTLV-II and one (0.7%) showed an indeterminate pattern of reaction. The present results show for the first time in Belém not only the occurrence of HTLV-II/HIV-1 coinfections but also a higher prevalence of HTLV-II in relation to HTLV-I. Furthermore, it also enlarges the geographical limits of the endemic area for HTLV-II in the Amazon region of Brazil.

Antihypertensive effects of angiotensin-(1-7)

Accumulating evidence suggests that angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) is an important component of the renin-angiotensin system and that the actions of the peptide may either contribute to or oppose those of Ang II. Ang-(1-7) can be converted directly from Ang I bypassing prerequisite formation of Ang II. Formation of Ang-(1-7) is under the control of at least three endopeptidases depending on the tissue compartment and include neprilysin, thimet oligopeptidase and prolyl oligopeptidase. Both neprilysin and thimet oligopeptidase are also involved in the metabolism of bradykinin and the atrial natriuretic peptide. Moreover, recent studies suggest that in addition to Ang I and bradykinin, Ang-(1-7) is an endogenous substrate for angiotensin converting enzyme. These enzymatic pathways may contribute to a complex relationship between the hypertensive actions of Ang II and various vasodepressor peptides from either the renin-angiotensin system or other peptide systems. Ang-(1-7) is devoid of the vasoconstrictor, central pressor, or thirst-stimulating actions associated with Ang II. In fact, new findings reveal depressor, vasodilator, and antihypertensive actions that may be more apparent in hypertensive animals or humans. Thus, Ang-(1-7) may oppose the actions of Ang II directly or as a result of increasing prostaglandins or nitric oxide. In this review, we examine the mechanisms by which Ang-(1-7) may contribute to cardiovascular regulation.

Predation of Biomphalaria glabrata during the development of Belostoma anurum (Hemiptera, Belostomatidae)

Belostoma anurum was reared under laboratory conditions. Specimens were exposed to semi-natural conditions of photo period. The mortality rate was 26.3% during the post embryonic period (38.6 ± 0.7 days). During this time the average predation of Biomphalaria glabrata was of 99.0 ± 9.4 snails. The mean increment ratio of length and dry weight per instar was of 1.4 ± 0.1 and 2.8 ± 0.5, respectively. The predation by B. anurum adults can be divided into two different periods: phase I (4.8 ± 1.4 snails/day) and phase II (1.8 ± 0.5 snails/day). The higher predation in phase I suggested the sexual maturation of the belostomatid.

ASSESSMENT OF IVERMECTIN THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY ON THIRD-STAGE LARVAE OF Lagochilascaris minor IN MICE EXPERIMENTALLY INFECTED

In this study we evaluated the potential action of ivermectin on third-stage larvae, both at migratory and encysted phases, in mouse tissues after experimental infection with Lagochilascaris minor. Study groups I and II consisted of 120 mice that were orally administered 1,000 parasite eggs. In order to assess ivermectin action upon migratory larvae, group I (60 mice) was equally split in three subgroups, namely I-A, I-B, and I-C. On the 7th day after inoculation (DAI), each animal from the subgroup I-A was treated with 200 µg/Kg ivermectin while subgroup I-B was given 1,000 µg/Kg, both groups received a single subcutaneous dose. To assess the drug action on encysted larvae, group II was equally split in three subgroups, namely II-A, II-B, II-C. On the 45th DAI each animal was treated with ivermectin at 200 µg/Kg (subgroup II-A) and 1,000 µg/Kg (group II-B) with a single subcutaneous dose. Untreated animals of subgroups I-C and II-C were used as controls. On the 60th DAI all animals were submitted to larva search. At a dose of 1,000 µg/Kg the drug had 99.5% effectiveness on third-stage migratory larvae (subgroup I-B). Ivermectin efficacy was lower than 5% on third-stage encysted larvae for both doses as well as for migratory larvae treated with 200µg/Kg.

Close relationship between diameters at 30cm height and at breast height (DBH)

This paper proposes the establishment of a second diameter measuring standard at 30cm shoot extension ('diam30') as input variable for allometric biomass estimation of small and mid-sized plant shoots. This diameter standard is better suited than the diameter at breast height (DBH, i.e. diameter at 1.30m shoot extension) for adequate characterization of plant dimensions in low bushy vegetation or in primary forest undergrowth. The relationships between both diameter standards are established based on a dataset of 8645 tree, liana and palm shoots in secondary and primary forests of central Amazonia (ranging from 1-150mm dbh). Dbh can be predicted from the diam(30) with high precision, the error introduced by diameter transformation is only 2-3% for trees and palms, and 5% for lianas. This is well acceptable for most field study purposes. Relationships deviate slightly from linearity and differ between growth forms. Relationships were markedly similar for different vegetation types (low secondary regrowth vs. primary forests), soils, and selected genera or species. This points to a general validity and applicability of diameter transformations for other field studies. This study provides researchers with a tool for the allometric estimation of biomass in low or structurally heterogeneous vegetation. Rather than applying a uniform diameter standard, the measuring position which best represents the respective plant can be decided on shoot-by-shoot. Plant diameters measured at 30cm height can be transformed to dbh for subsequent allometric biomass estimation. We recommend the use of these diameter transformations only for plants extending well beyond the theoretical minimum shoot length (i.e., >2m height). This study also prepares the ground for the comparability and compatability of future allometric equations specifically developed for small- to mid-sized vegetation components (i.e., bushes, undergrowth) which are based on the diam(30) measuring standard.

Intra-His bundle block: clinical, electrocardiographic, and electrophysiologic characteristics

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical, electrocardiographic, and electrophysiologic characteristics of patients (pt) with intra-His bundle block undergoing an electrophysiologic study (EPS). METHODS: We analyzed the characteristics of 16 pt with second-degree atrioventricular block and symptoms of syncope or dyspnea, or both, undergoing conventional EPS. RESULTS: Intra-His bundle block was documented in 16 pt during an EPS. In 15 (94%) pt, the atrioventricular block was recorded in sinus rhythm; 4 (25%) pt had intra-His Wenckebach phenomenon, which correlated with Mobitz I (MI) atrioventricular block on the electrocardiogram. Seven (44%) pt had 2:1 atrioventricular block, 2 of whom were asymptomatic (12.5%). One (6%) pt had intra- and infra-His bundle block. Clinically, 11 (68%) pt had syncope or presyncope, 3 (18%) had dyspnea on exertion, and 2 (12.5%) were asymptomatic. Eight (50%) pt had bundle-branch block as follows: 4 (25%) pt had left bundle-branch block, and 4 (25%) had right bundle-branch block. Left anterosuperior divisional block was observed in 3 pt (19%), 2 of whom with associated right bundle-branch block. CONCLUSION: Intra-His bundle block was observed in 11% of the pt with second-degree atrioventricular block, syncope or presyncope, or both, it being the most frequent clinical presentation. Intra-His bundle block was more common in the elderly (> 60 years) and among females. The most frequent electrocardiographic presentations were second-degree Mobitz I or type 2:1 atrioventricular block.

Estacas de amoreira tratadas com hormônios vegetais em dois sistemas de plantio e referentes coberturas do estufim

Four experiments on root formation on cuttings of mulberry trees of the variety Catania 1 were carried out. In each case the hormones Dieradix "M D", Dieradix "D", indol 3-yl-acetic acid, and I-naphthyl acetic acid were used, besides the control, without hormone. In all cases "normal" and "upside-down" planting were tried. The percentage x of cuttings with roots, after 54 days, were computed and transformed by the formula y = arc sin √P/100 for use in statistical analysis. The combined analysis of variance of the 4 trials led to the following results: "Upside-down" planting showed significantly higher percentage of rooting; Indol 3-yl-acetic acid was significantly better than control or other hormones. The percentages of rooted cuttings were as follows: Normal planting Upside-dow planting Indol 3-yl acetic acid 43.5% 90.9% I-naphthyl acetic acid 1.9% 69.3% Control 4.7% 22.2% Dieradix «M D» 2.4% 63.8% Dieradix «D» 1.3% 36.0%

Anopheles species composition explains differences in Plasmodium transmission in La Guajira, northern Colombia

Malaria in La Guajira, the most northern state of Colombia, shows two different epidemiological patterns. Malaria is endemic in the municipality of Dibulla whereas in Riohacha it is characterised by sporadic outbreaks. This study aimed to establish whether differences in transmission patterns could be attributed to different vector species. The most abundant adult female species were Anopheles aquasalis, exclusive to Riohacha, and Anopheles darlingi, restricted to Dibulla. Anopheles mosquitoes were identified using morphology and the molecular markers internal transcribed spacer 2 and cytochrome c oxidase I. All specimens (n = 1,393) were tested by ELISA to determine natural infection rates with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. An. darlingi was positive for P. vivax 210, with an infection rate of 0.355% and an entomological inoculation rate of 15.87 infective bites/person/year. Anopheles albimanus larvae were the most common species in Riohacha, found in temporary swamps; in contrast, in Dibulla An. darlingi were detected mainly in permanent streams. Distinctive species composition and larval habitats in each municipality may explain the differences in Plasmodium transmission and suggest different local strategies should be used for vector control.

O uso da escala de Braden e fotografias na avaliação do risco para úlceras por pressão

O objetivo deste artigo foi identificar casos de risco para úlcera por pressão (UP), em pacientes críticos, a partir da escala de Braden e de fotografias digitais. Uma amostra de 42 sujeitos foi avaliada durante 15 dias entre março a junho de 2009 em Fortaleza, Brasil. No total foram identificadas 47 lesões, sendo 23 (48,9%) com estágio I e 24 (51,1%) com estágio II. Conclui-se que é necessário que o enfermeiro que ainda não utiliza usualmente tecnologias na avaliação e tratamento procure se familiarizar com isso, a fim de diminuir as repercussões negativas deste problema de saúde coletiva.

Estructura cristalina del N-isopropil-2-ciano-3(5'-nitrofuril)acrilamida

C11H11N3O4 , Mr = 249.23, triclinic, , a = 5.453(1), b = 22.873(5), c = 4.893(1) Å, a = 94.47(3), b = 96.36(3), g = 86.27(3)º, V = 603.7(8)ų,Z = 2, Dx = 1.371 Mg/m-3,l(Cu Ka1) = 1.54178Å, m = 0.86mm-1, room temperature. The crystal structure of N-isopropyl-2-cyano-3(5'-nitrofuryl) - acrylamide has been determined by Direct Methods and refined to R = 0.086 for 797 observed reflections. The molecules in the crystal are packed at normal van der Waals forces and by an hydrogen bond between N1-H1...02i (N1...02i: 2.910(1)Å), with i=x,y,z+1).

Determination of moisture content and water activity in algae and fish by thermoanalytical techniques

The water content in seafoods is very important since it affects their sensorial quality, microbiological stability, physical characteristics and shelf life. In this study, thermoanalytical techniques were employed to develop a simple and accurate method to determine water content (moisture) by thermogravimetry (TG) and water activity from moisture content values and freezing point depression using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The precision of the results suggests that TG is a suitable technique to determine moisture content in biological samples. The average water content values for fish samples of Lutjanus synagris and Ocyurus chrysurus species were 76.4 ± 5.7% and 63.3 ± 3.9%, respectively, while that of Ulva lactuca marine algae species was 76.0 ± 4.4%. The method presented here was also successfully applied to determine water activity in two species of fish and six species of marine algae collected in the Atlantic coastal waters of Bahia, in Brazil. Water activity determined in fish samples ranged from 0.946 - 0.960 and was consistent with values reported in the literature, i.e., 0.9 - 1.0. The water activity values determined in marine algae samples lay within the interval of 0.974 - 0.979.