Comparison of agglutinating and neutralizing antibodies to serovar hardjo in sows immunized with two commercial whole culture polivalent anti-leptospira bacterins

It was performed the comparison of the intensity and duration of agglutinating and neutralizing antibodies to serovar Hardjo in swines vaccinated with two commercial anti-leptospira bacterins. Sows no reactive to 24 Leptospira sp serovars in the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) were divided in three groups: Group A (n=08): received two vaccine A doses with 30 days interval, Group B (n=08) two vaccine B doses with 30 days interval and Group C (n=08): control no vaccinated against leptospirosis.Blood samples were collected each 30 days during six months following the first vaccination. The sera were tested by MAT and growth inhibition test (GIT) to serovar Hardjo in order to evaluate respectively agglutinating and neutralizing antibodies. It was found that neutralizing antibodies persisted for a longer time than the agglutinating ones and that the absence of agglutinating antibodies does not means in the absence of the neutralizing. The peaks of agglutinating antibodies was obtained at least 30 days earlier than that produced by neutralizing. The duration of both kinds of antibodies measured differed between the two bacterines tested. The period for inducing neutralizing antibodies against serovar Hardjo indicated that gilts must be immunized with two doses of whole culture anti-leptospira bacterines applied 30 days each other at least 90 days before the first mating. For the maintenance of hight levels of neutralizing antibodies the revaccinations must be performed every six months after the first vaccination.

Desigualdades nas condições de saúde e no uso de serviços entre as pessoas idosas do município de São Paulo: uma análise de gênero e renda

O presente estudo analisa as desigualdades e os determinantes sociais de saúde, com foco na renda e gênero, relacionados às condições de saúde e à utilização de serviços de saúde pela população idosa em São Paulo, como parte do estudo SABE, inquérito de idosos no município de São Paulo, em 2000. Observa-se presença de desigualdades na morbidade e no acesso e uso de serviços de saúde pela população idosa, com relação à renda, sexo e idade. Ser mulher, ter menor renda e mais idade está relacionado à pior condição de saúde e menor uso de serviços de saúde, o que indica a necessidade de políticas públicas com foco na equidade e na atenção à população idosa

Diferenciais intra-urbanos de peso ao nascer no município de São Paulo

OBJETIVO: Identificar diferenciais intra-urbanos e fatores de risco na prevalência de baixo peso ao nascer. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizadas as informações das declarações de nascido vivo de mães residentes no município de São Paulo, obtidos do Sistema de Informação de Nascidos Vivos e Fundação Seade, para o período de 2002 e 2003, totalizando 368.980 nascidos vivos. Os endereços foram geo-referenciados em setores censitários e classificados em seis grupos de vulnerabilidade segundo o Índice Paulista de Vulnerabilidade Social. Para identificação dos possíveis fatores de risco empregou-se análise de regressão logística. RESULTADOS: Observou-se tendência de crescimento da prevalência de baixo peso ao nascer com aumento da vulnerabilidade (de 6,8% a 8,1%). Houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos quanto às características maternas, assistência pré-natal e da proporção de nascimentos de não pré-termo de baixo peso. No grupo de baixo peso não pré-termo, proxy da presença de retardo do crescimento intra-uterino, residir em áreas vulneráveis (1,29;1,17-1,43) e características socioeconômicas maternas desaforáveis, como mães adolescentes (1,13;1,04-1,22), baixa escolaridade (1,26;1,17-1,35) e elevada paridade (1,10;1,01-1,20) foram fatores de risco, assim como mães idosas (1,38;1,30-1,47), e sem companheiro (1,15;1,11-1,20). A ausência de pré-natal apresentou o maior risco de baixo peso para nascimentos de pré-termo (3,39;2,86-4,02) e não pré-termo (2,12;1,87-2,41). Houve redução de risco de baixo peso com o aumento de consultas de pré-natal para nascimentos de pré-termo e não pré-termo. CONCLUSÕES: Há diferenças de prevalência de baixo peso ao nascer segundo grupos de vulnerabilidade. A assistência pré-natal mostrou-se desigual segundo grupos de vulnerabilidade e seu elevado risco para o baixo peso ao nascer indica a importância de ampliar o acesso e qualidade dos serviços de saúde

Causas do declínio da desnutrição infantil no Brasil, 1996-2007

OBJETIVO: Estabelecer a evolução da prevalência de desnutrição na população brasileira de crianças menores de cinco anos de idade entre 1996 e 2007 e identificar os principais fatores responsáveis por essa evolução.MÉTODOS: Os dados analisados procedem de inquéritos "Demographic Health Surveys" realizados no Brasil em 1996 e 2006/7 em amostras probabilísticas de cerca de 4 mil crianças menores de cinco anos. A identificação dos fatores responsáveis pela variação temporal da prevalência da desnutrição (altura-para-idade inferior a -2 escores z; padrão OMS 2006) considerou mudanças na distribuição de quatro determinantes potenciais do estado nutricional. Modelagem estatística da associação independente entre determinante e risco de desnutrição em cada inquérito e cálculo de frações atribuíveis parciais foram utilizados para avaliar a importância relativa de cada fator na evolução da desnutrição infantil. RESULTADOS: A prevalência da desnutrição foi reduzida em cerca de 50%: de 13,5% (IC 95%: 12,1%;14,8%) em 1996 para 6,8% (5,4%;8,3%) em 2006/7. Dois terços dessa redução poderiam ser atribuídos à evolução favorável dos quatro fatores estudados: 25,7% ao aumento da escolaridade materna; 21,7% ao crescimento do poder aquisitivo das famílias; 11,6% à expansão da assistência à saúde e 4,3% à melhoria nas condições de saneamento.CONCLUSÕES: A taxa anual de declínio de 6,3% na proporção de crianças com déficits de altura-para-idade indica que em cerca de mais dez anos a desnutrição infantil poderia deixar de ser um problema de saúde pública no Brasil. A conquista desse resultado dependerá da manutenção das políticas econômicas e sociais que têm favorecido o aumento do poder aquisitivo dos mais pobres e de investimentos públicos que permitam completar a universalização do acesso da população brasileira aos serviços essenciais de educação, saúde e saneamento

The Missing Part of Seed Dispersal Networks: Structure and Robustness of Bat-Fruit Interactions

Mutualistic networks are crucial to the maintenance of ecosystem services. Unfortunately, what we know about seed dispersal networks is based only on bird-fruit interactions. Therefore, we aimed at filling part of this gap by investigating bat-fruit networks. It is known from population studies that: (i) some bat species depend more on fruits than others, and (ii) that some specialized frugivorous bats prefer particular plant genera. We tested whether those preferences affected the structure and robustness of the whole network and the functional roles of species. Nine bat-fruit datasets from the literature were analyzed and all networks showed lower complementary specialization (H(2)' = 0.3760.10, mean 6 SD) and similar nestedness (NODF = 0.5660.12) than pollination networks. All networks were modular (M=0.32 +/- 0.07), and had on average four cohesive subgroups (modules) of tightly connected bats and plants. The composition of those modules followed the genus-genus associations observed at population level (Artibeus-Ficus, Carollia-Piper, and Sturnira-Solanum), although a few of those plant genera were dispersed also by other bats. Bat-fruit networks showed high robustness to simulated cumulative removals of both bats (R = 0.55 +/- 0.10) and plants (R = 0.68 +/- 0.09). Primary frugivores interacted with a larger proportion of the plants available and also occupied more central positions; furthermore, their extinction caused larger changes in network structure. We conclude that bat-fruit networks are highly cohesive and robust mutualistic systems, in which redundancy is high within modules, although modules are complementary to each other. Dietary specialization seems to be an important structuring factor that affects the topology, the guild structure and functional roles in bat-fruit networks.

Ipolamiide and fulvoipolarniide from Stachytarpheta glabra (Verbenaceae): A structural and spectroscopic characterization

The phenylethanoid glycoside acteoside and the iridoids ipolamiide and 4-methoxycarbonyl-7-methylcyclopenta[c]pyran (fulvoipolamiide) were isolated from the leaves of Stachytarpheta glabra. The solid state structure of fulvoipolamiide was confirmed by X-ray diffraction studies. The molecules of fulvoipolamiide are displayed in layers parallel to the crystallographic axis a. This molecule is planar with electron delocalization in the fused ring system and the pyran rings of adjacent layers in the solid state structure are involved in a pi-pi stacking interaction. Raman spectroscopy has also been used to characterize the most important bands present in the spectra of fulvoipolamiide and ipolamiide, and comparison made with literature allows the assignment of some key markers, specially the bands in the 1600-1700 cm(-1) range. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A new set of microsatellite markers for the genetic characterization of Ceratocystis fimbriata, an economically important plant pathogen

Ceratocystis fimbriata is a fungal pathogen which attacks several economically important plants, but occurs in host-associated, morphologically indistinguishable forms. In Brazil, this fungus seriously attacks mango trees (Mangifera indica), causing severe loss of yield. This work aimed to develop and characterize a novel set of microsatellite markers for this important pathogen, providing researchers with new molecular tools for the characterization of isolates. Twenty polymorphic primer pairs were designed from a microsatellite-enriched library. We tested the usefulness of these markers through genotyping thirteen isolates of the fungus. On average, 6.65 alleles per locus were detected, revealing the ability of this set of markers to characterize C. fimbriata isolates associated to mango and to other plant species.

Comparative study of phenolic compounds in different Brazilian rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes

This study was conducted to evaluate the natural variability of total, extractable and non-extractable phenolics in pigmented and non-pigmented rice genotypes (Oryza sativa L.) and to estimate whether the contents and distribution of these compounds are typical for genotypes from indica and japonica subspecies. Twenty-one samples of commercial as well as new genotypes of brown rice, including seven pigmented genotypes were obtained from two Agronomic Institutes in South Brazil. Free and conjugated phenolics were extracted with ethanol, while bound phenolics were released by alkaline hydrolysis. Total phenolics were estimated in both fractions by the Folin-Ciocalteau method. Genotypes from Japonica and indica non-pigmented subspecies were not statistically distinguishable from each other, but differences in phenolic contents were associated with pericarp color. Despite individual differences, total phenolics were four times higher in pigmented than in non-pigmented genotypes (4246 and 1073 mg ferulic acid equiv. kg(-1), respectively). These high amounts were mostly due to the presence of extractable (free and conjugated) phenolics, which comprised up to 81% of total phenolics for pigmented genotypes. Non-extractable (bound) phenolics comprised 40% of total phenolics of non-pigmented rice genotypes while pigmented genotypes presented greater absolute amounts, but their contribution on total phenolics was small. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ascorbic acid metabolism in fruits: activity of enzymes involved in synthesis and degradation during ripening in mango and guava

BACKGROUND: Ascorbic acid is a very important compound for plants. It has essential functions, mainly as an antioxidant and growth regulator. Ascorbic acid biosynthesis has been extensively studied, but studies in fruits are very limited. In this work we studied the influence of five enzymes involved in synthesis (L-galactono-1,4-lactone dehydrogenase, GalLDH, EC 1.3.2.3), oxidation (ascorbate oxidase, EC 1.10.3.3, and ascorbate peroxidase, APX, EC and recycling (monodehydroascorbate reductase, EC 1.6.5.4, and dehydroascorbate reductase, DHAR, EC 1.8.5.1) on changes in ascorbic acid content during development and ripening of mangoes (Mangifera indica L. cv. Keitt) and during the ripening of white pulp guavas (Psidium guayava L. cv. Paloma). RESULTS: It was found that there was a balance between the activities of GalLDH, APX and DHAR, both in mangoes and guavas. CONCLUSIONS: Equilibrium between the enzymatic activities of synthesis, catabolism and recycling is important for the regulation of ascorbic acid content in mango and guava. These results have contributed to understanding some of the changes that occur in ascorbic acid levels during fruit ripening. (C) 2008 Society of Chemical Industry.

A Strong Protective Action of Guttiferone-A, a Naturally Occurring Prenylated Benzophenone, Against Iron-Induced Neuronal Cell Damage

Guttiferone-A (GA) is a natural occurring polyisoprenylated benzophenone with several reported pharmacological actions. We have assessed the protective action of GA on iron-induced neuronal cell damage by employing the PC12 cell line and primary culture of rat cortical neurons (PCRCN). A strong protection by GA, assessed by the 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carbox-anilide (XTT) assay, was revealed, with IC(50) values <1 mu M. GA also inhibited Fe(3+)-ascorbate reduction, iron-induced oxidative degradation of 2-deoxiribose, and iron-induced lipid peroxidation in rat brain homogenate, as well as stimulated oxygen consumption by Fe(2+) autoxidation. Absorption spectra and cyclic voltammograms of GA Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) complexes suggest the formation of a transient charge transfer complex between Fe(2+) and GA, accelerating Fe(2+) oxidation. The more stable Fe(3+) complex with GA would be unable to participate in Fenton-Haber Weiss-type reactions and the propagation phase of lipid peroxidation. The results show a potential of GA against neuronal diseases associated with iron-induced oxidative stress.

Toothbrush Contamination by Candida spp. and Efficacy of Mouthrinse Spray for Their Disinfection

The aim of the study was to evaluate toothbrush contamination in vivo by Candida spp. and the efficacy of Periogard(A (R)) and Neem Sattiva(A (R)), in spray, in the disinfection of these toothbrushes. This study was performed in three phases in which mouthrinses and sterile distilled water (control group) were sprayed six times on toothbrush bristles used by 61 university students. Toothbrushes were then submitted to microbiological processing for the isolation and identification of Candida species. Fifty-nine students completed the three phases of this study, and 22 (37.3%) control group toothbrushes presented growth of Candida species. Periogard(A (R)) and Neem Sattiva(A (R)) eliminated growth of Candida spp. in 48.1 and 7.4% of toothbrushes, respectively. Contamination by Candida spp. was observed on various toothbrushes of the control group. Periogard(A (R)) was more efficacious than Neem Sattiva(A (R)) in eliminating growth of Candida spp. on the toothbrush bristles.

Nitrogen relations of natural and disturbed plant communities in tropical Australia

Nitrogen relations of natural and disturbed tropical plant communities in northern Australia (Kakadu National Park) were studied. Plant and soil N characteristics suggested that differences in N source utilisation occur at community and species level. Leaf and xylem sap N concentrations of plants in different communities were correlated with the availability of inorganic soil N (NH4+ and NO3-). In general, rates of leaf NO3- assimilation were low. Even in communities with a higher N status, including deciduous monsoon forest, disturbed wetland, and a revegetated mine waste rock dump, levels of leaf nitrate reductase, xylem and leaf NO3 levels were considerably lower than those that have been reported for eutrophic communities. Although NO3- assimilation in escarpment and eucalypt woodlands, and wetland, was generally low, within these communities there was a suite of species that exhibited a greater capacity for NO3- assimilation. These high-NO3- species were mainly annuals, resprouting herbs or deciduous trees that had leaves with high N contents. Ficus, a high-NO3- species, was associated with soil exhibiting higher rates of net mineralisation and net nitrification. Low-NO3- species were evergreen perennials with low leaf N concentrations. A third group of plants, which assimilated NO3- (albeit at lower rates than the high-NO3- species), and had high-N leaves, were leguminous species. Acacia species, common in woodlands, had the highest leaf N contents of all woody species. Acacia species appeared to have the greatest potential to utilise the entire spectrum of available N sources. This versatility in N source utilisation may be important in relation to their high tissue N status and comparatively short life cycle. Differences in N utilisation are discussed in the context of species life strategies and mycorrhizal associations.

Toxicity of biorational insecticides to Helicoverpa spp. (Lepidoptera : Noctuidae) and predators in cotton field

Field trials on upland cotton (Gossypium hirstum L.) during its reproductive phase were used to assess the toxicity of several biorational pesticides and chemicals to Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and H. puntigera Wallengren, as well as major predators at Dalby, Queensland, Australia. Moderate rate-dependent control was obtained in plots treated with neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) seed extract-azadirachtin (Aza) at rates of 30, 60 and 90 g/ha. Plots treated with Talstar EC (bifenthrin) applications achieved the best results, followed by treatment with alternation of chemicals (methomyl, bifenthrin, thiodicarb and endosulfan) and biorational insecticides (neem oil, azadirachtin and Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki var. Berliner). Predators, including lady beetles, lacewings, spiders and predatory bugs, were insensitive to Aza, tooseendanin (Tsdn) and BT applications. In contrast, chemicals were very destructive of predators. All treatments provided some protection from infestation of H. armigera and H. puntigera. The effect of Aza on Helicoverpa spp. was reflected in a relatively higher yield of seed cotton harvested from Aza-treated plots compared with the control, but chemical control achieved significantly higher yields than any other treatment.

Sperm morphology: A novel way to associate female-males of highly sexual dimorphic fig wasp species

Males of pollinating and some non-pollinating fig wasps are wingless and quite dissimilar to their co-specific females. Due to the accentuated sexual dimorphism, males and females of some fig wasp species were described in different genera. We used morphological sperm features obtained from male seminal vesicles and female spermathecas to associate sexes in three non-pollinating fig wasp species, genus Idarnes, that are associated with Ficus citrifolia in Brazil. Sperm obtained from each female morph species presented diagnostic features that led to the association with sperm obtained from males. This method can potentially be used to help enlighten taxonomic problems in other wasp species with sexual di- or polymorphism.

Effects of phosphonate and salicylic acid treatments on anthracnose disease development and ripening of 'Kensington Pride' mango fruit

This study investigated treatment of mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit with 2 host defence-promoting compounds for suppression of anthracnose disease (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides). Cultivar 'Kensington Pride' fruit were treated at concentrations of up to 1000 mg/L with either potassium phosphonate or salicylic acid. Applications were by various combinations of pre- and postharvest dips and vacuum infiltration. Postharvest treatments at up to 2000 mg/L salicylic acid were evaluated in a second fruiting season. Fruit were either uninoculated or inoculated with the fungal pathogen. Colour, firmness and disease-severity were assessed during shelf life at 23 degreesC. There were no significant (P>0.05) effects of potassium phosphonate or salicylic acid on anthracnose disease severity in the first season. Moreover, phosphonate or salicylic acid treatment did not significantly affect fruit colour or firmness changes. There were significant (P