ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the efficacy of a finishing diet added with sugar beet pulp to reduce backfat skatole of entire male pigs, using the optimised high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method. The study comprised 72 males Pietrain (Large White × Landrace), divided into two groups of 36 animals each. Pigs in group A (treatment) were fed a supplemented formula (addition of 10 % beet pulp). while animals in group B (control) received a commercial feed, both for a period of 14 days before slaughter. The isocratic HPLC method achieved the chromatographic separation of indolic compounds in approximately 3 min. Skatole was significantly lower ( p = 0.002) in group A, showing that beet root supplementation reduced skatole levels in pig fat. In addition, the optimised HPLC method was reliable, less time-consuming, and showed a resolution suitable for small amounts of skatole.

Asbtract Introduction This study aimed to determine whether cytokine receptor-like factor 2 (CRLF2) antigen expression evaluated using multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) could predict the genotype of CRLF2 and Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) status for application in the diagnosis of pediatric B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL). Methods A total of 321 BCP-ALL bone marrow samples were collected, 291 at diagnosis and 13 at first relapse, while 17 samples were excluded due to low cellular viability. The CRLF2 antigen expression was evaluated using flow cytometry (percentage of positivity and median fluorescence intensity [MFI]). The CRLF2 transcript levels were assessed via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction using SYBR Green. The CRLF2 rearrangements (CRLF2-r) were identified using the CRLF2 break-apart probe via fluorescence in situ hybridization. Sanger sequencing was performed to identify the JAK2 exon 16 mutations. Results We observed that 60 of the 291 cases (20.6%) presented CRLF2 antigen positivity, whereas the CRLF2 transcript overexpression was found in 19 of 113 cases (16.8%). The JAK2 mutation was found in four out of 116 cases (3.4%), all of which had CRLF2 ≥10% of positive cells and intermediate or high MFI (p < 0.0001). In addition, in the 13 cases with the CRLF2-r, a positive correlation was found with the CRLF2 antigen intermediate (61.5%) MFI (p= 0.017). Finally, the CRLF2-positive antigen was identified in the BCP-ALL subclones. Conclusion The identification of the CRLF2 antigen using the MFC, based on the percentage of positivity and MFI values, is a useful tool for predicting JAK2 mutations and CRLF2-r.

RESUMO A ‘BRS Paranoá’ foi obtida pelo programa de melhoramento genético de cenoura da Embrapa Hortaliças, visando obter uma cultivar adaptada à maioria das regiões produtoras de cenoura em sistema orgânico. Essa cultivar foi desenvolvida através de seleção de progênies meias-irmãs e validada no Brasil. A ‘BRS Paranoá’ é indicada para semeadura nas estações primavera/verão. Essa cultivar apresenta elevada resistência à queima das folhas causada pela associação fungo e bactéria (Alternaria dauci, Cercospora carotae e Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae) com desfolhamento entre 20 a 25% aos 100 dias após o plantio (DAP). Além disso, apresenta elevada estabilidade de produção e elevado teto produtivo, superando 32 t ha-1. A ‘BRS Paranoá’ possui ciclo precoce, com a colheita podendo ser realizada a partir dos 85 DAP. As raízes apresentam comprimento variando de 16 a 22 cm, diâmetro de 3 cm, coloração alaranjada intensa, formato cilíndrico e ausência de defeitos fisiológicos externos ou internos. A qualidade pós-colheita foi avaliada e a acidez titulável encontrada foi de 0,20%, sólidos solúveis de 6,9oBrix, carotenoides totais de 78,40 µg g-1 e ß-caroteno (pró-vitamina A) de 22,69 µg g-1. A ‘BRS Paranoá’ foi registrada e protegida pelo Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento e suas sementes têm sido comercializadas pelas principais empresas de sementes de hortaliças no Brasil.

ABSTRACT ‘BRS Paranoá’ was obtained by the carrot breeding program of Embrapa Hortaliças, aiming to obtain a cultivar adapted to most carrot-producing regions in an organic system. It was developed through selection of half-sib progenies and validated in Brazil. ‘BRS Paranoá’ is indicated for sowing in the spring/summer seasons especially because it displays high resistance to leaf blight caused by the fungal and bacterial association (Alternaria dauci, Cercospora carotae, and Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae) with defoliation between 20 to 25% at 100 days after planting (DAP), eliminating the need to control this disease with chemical pesticides. In addition, it shows high production stability and an outstanding production exceeding 32 t ha-1. ‘BRS Paranoá’ is an early maturity cultivar, and the harvest can be carried out from 85 DAP when the commercial roots range from 16 to 22 cm, 3 cm diameter, intense orange color, cylindrical shape, and no external or internal physiological defects. The postharvest quality was evaluated and the titratable acidity found was 0.20%, 6.9oBrix soluble solids, 78.40 µg g-1 total carotenoids, and 22.69 µg g-1 ß-carotene (provitamin A). ‘BRS Paranoá’ was registered and protected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply and its seeds have been marketed by the main vegetable seeds companies in Brazil.

Resumo: Introdução: A população de doentes com hemofilia (DCH) representa uma população com alta prevalência de infeção pelo vírus da hepatite C (VHC), atendendo à utilização passada de derivados sanguíneos contaminados. Apesar de os objetivos terapêuticos nesta população serem semelhantes aos da população geral, estudos de vida real com follow-up de longa data são ainda escassos. O nosso objetivo consistiu em avaliar os outcomes infeção VHC, bem como, os resultados da terapêutica antivírica nos DCH. Métodos: Foi avaliada retrospetivamente uma coorte unicêntrica de DCH com positividade para anti-VHC. Os outcomes registados foram a ocorrência de clearance espontâneo, resposta virológica sustentada (RVS), desenvolvimento de doença hepática terminal e mortalidade. Resultados: De 131 DCH, 73 (55.7%) apresentavam positividade para o anticorpo VHC. Durante um follow-up médio de 22 anos, 46 doentes (63.9%) desenvolveram hepatite crónica C, 16 (34.8%) dos quais com desenvolvimento de cirrose. Trinta e quatro DCH foram tratados, a maioria (n = 32) exposta previamente a regimes baseados no interferão (IFN) com RVS de 40.6%. Antivíricos de ação direta foram utilizados em 14 doentes experimentados a IFN e 2 naïves com uma taxa de RVS geral de 100%. Morte foi observada em 17 doentes (23.3%), apenas 4 relacionadas à doença hepática. Destes nenhum tinha atingido RVS. Conclusões: Descrevemos os outcomes de uma coorte portuguesa de DCH e VHC após duas décadas de follow-up, mostrando uma mortalidade inferior à previamente descrita. As taxas de RVS mostradas foram comparáveis com as da população geral salientando a importância do tratamento precoce.

Abstract: Introduction: Persons with haemophilia (PWH) used to represente a population with a high prevalence of hepatitis C vírus (HCV) infection due to the use of contaminated blood products. Although the goals of antiviral therapy are the same as the general population, long real-life follow-up data regarding their outcomes are still scarce. Our aim was to report the outcomes of HCV infection and the results of antiviral therapy in PWH. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed in a single-centre cohort of PWH with positive HCV antibody. Outcomes registered were rate of spontaneous clearance of HCV, sustained virologic response (SVR) achievement, development of end-stage liver disease, and all-cause and liver-related mortality. Results: Out of 131 PWH, 73 (55.7%) had positive HCV antibody. During a median follow-up time of 22 years, 46 patients (63.9%) developed chronic hepatitis C, of which 16 (34.8%) developed cirrhosis. Treatment was pursued in 34 PWH. Most (n = 32) were first treated with interferon (IFN)-based regimens with SVR rates of 40.6%. Direct-acting antivirals were used in 14 IFNexperienced and 2 naïve patients, with an overall SVR rate of 100%. Overall, 17 patients (23.3%) died during the follow-up, only 4 related to liver disease. Of these, none had achieved SVR. Conclusions: We describe the outcomes of a cohort of Portuguese PWH and hepatitis C exposure after two decades of follow-up, with a lower mortality than previously described. Our response rates to HCV treatment were comparable to those in the general population and stress the importance of early treatment.

Resumo Boro (B) é essencial para o metabolismo das plantas, e a maior parte dos meios de cultura usa a mesma concentração, mas em diferentes quantidades esse nutriente pode provocar alterações de crescimento. Assim, o propósito deste estudo foi examinar o efeito do B no crescimento in vitro do mirtileiro de três experimentos. O primeiro experimento de multiplicação (avaliado aos 90 dias) usou 3 concentrações de 2-isopenteniladenina-2iP, com 4 concentrações de ácido bórico-BA (esquema fatorial 3x4). O segundo usou 4 concentrações de BA e 1 concentração de 2iP, e o terceiro (enraizamento) usou 4 concentrações de ácido bórico e 1 concentração de ácido indolbutírico-IBA, ambos avaliados aos 180 dias (esquema unifatorial). Todos os experimentos tiveram 4 repetições, com 5 explantes cada. 6.2 mg L-1 de B e 5.0 mg L-1 de 2iP geraram a maior quantidade de brotações (18.4 e 25.5, respectivamente). Da interação dessas concentrações, houve a maior atividade das enzimas POD e PPO. Sob deficiência de B, foi visto maior número de necrose do ápice (9), folhas vermelhas (31) e alta atividade das enzimas PAL, IAAO e POD. Com IBA, a correlação entre IAAO e o crescimento das raízes foi positiva, mostrando que o enraizamento do mirtileiro depende da regulação do B e da IAAO.

Abstract Boron (B) is essential for plants metabolism and most culture mediums use the same concentration, but in different quantities this nutrient may provoke growth alterations. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of B on in vitro growth of blueberry in three experiments. The first experiment of multiplication (evaluated at 90 days) used 3 concentrations of 2-isopentenyladenine-2iP with 4 concentrations of boric acid-BA (factorial scheme 3x4). The second used 4 concentrations of BA and 1 concentration of 2iP and the third (rooting) used 4 concentrations of BA and 1 concentration of indolbutyric acid-IBA both evaluated at 180 days (unifactorial scheme). All the experiments had 4 replicates with explants. 6.2 mg L-1 of B and 5.0 mg L-1 of 2iP generated the highest shoot quantity (18.4, 25.5 respectively). From the interaction of these concentrations, there was the highest activity of POD and PPO enzymes. Under B deficit was seen a larger number of shoot-tip necrosis (9), red leaves (31) and high activity of the PAL, IAAO and POD enzymes. With IBA the correlation between IAAO and the roots’ growth was positive, showing that blueberry rooting depends of both B and IAAO regulation.

Resumo Anaplasma marginale é uma bactéria Gram-negativa intracelular obrigatória de eritrócitos de ruminantes e responsável pela anaplasmose bovina. A diversidade genética de A. marginale tem sido caracterizada com base nas sequências das principais proteínas de superfície (MSPs), como a MSP1α. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a diversidade genética de A. marginale em bovinos no estado do Maranhão, Nordeste do Brasil. Dessa forma, 343 amostras de sangue foram submetidas ao ensaio iELISA, utilizando-se a proteína recombinante MSP5. Das 343 amostras de sangue, 235 (68,5%) foram escolhidas aleatoriamente e submetidas à extração de DNA, qPCR e PCR convencional para gene msp1α, para determinação das sequências de aminoácidos e classificação dos genótipos. Os resultados do iELISA mostraram 81,34% de soropositividade (279/343), enquanto qPCR revelou 224 amostras positivas (95,32%). Dentre estas na qPCR, 67,4% (151/224) mostraram-se positivas no PCR convencional. Das 50 sequências obtidas, 21 cepas não haviam sido relatadas anteriormente. Em relação aos genótipos, H (26/50) e E (18/50) foram os mais frequentes, enquanto os genótipos F e C foram identificados apenas duas vezes cada, e B e G uma vez cada. Em conclusão, alta prevalência e marcante diversidade genética de A. marginale foram observadas em rebanhos leiteiros no estado do Maranhão.

Abstract Anaplasma marginale is an obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacterium found in ruminants’ erythrocytes and is the etiological agent of bovine anaplasmosis. The bacterium’s genetic diversity has been characterized based on sequences of major surface proteins (MSPs), such as MSP1α. The aim of the present study was to investigate the genetic diversity of A. marginale in cattle in the state of Maranhão, northeastern Brazil. To this end, 343 blood samples were harvested and subjected to iELISA assays using the recombinant surface protein MSP5. Out of 343 blood samples, 235 (68.5%) were randomly chosen and submitted to DNA extraction, qPCR and conventional PCR targeting the msp1α gene to determine amino acid sequences and classify the genotypes. The iELISA results showed 81.34% seropositivity (279/343), whereas qPCR revealed 224 positive samples (95.32%). Among these qPCR-positive samples, 67.4% (151/224) were also positive in the cPCR. Among the 50 obtained sequences, 21 strains had not been previously reported. Regarding the genotypes, H (26/50) and E (18/50) were identified most often, while genotypes F and C were only identified twice each and B and G once each. In conclusion, high prevalence and genetic diversity for A. marginale were observed in dairy cattle herds in the state of Maranhão.

Abstract During the periods 2000-2004 and 2014-2015, Neisseria meningitidis was investigated in men who have sex with men, 1143 and 544 respectively, who consulted in the sexually-transmitted disease program. Prevalence, serogroup distribution and susceptibility to antibiotics were determined. Pharyngeal, rectal and urethral swabs were cultivated on selective Thayer-Martin modified medium. The identification was performed by biochemical tests and mass spectrometry by MALDI-TOF. Serogroups B, C, W and Y were investigated by PCR in 85 isolates recovered from the pharynx belonging to the second period. MICs of penicillin, ceftriaxone, rifampicin, azithromycin and ciprofloxacin were determined for 66 and 102 isolates from periods 1 and 2 respectively, according to CLSI. The prevalence of N. meningitidis was 17.8% and 28.1%, in periods 1 and 2 respectively; the isolates were mainly recovered from the pharynx. The distribution of serogroups was B 31.5%; Y 7.6%; W 3.3% and 9.8% non-capsulated and the rest would belong to other serogroups. Isolates classified as intermediate to penicillin were 34.8% and 63.7% (first and second periods, respectively); moreover, 11.8% of the isolates from the second period were resistant. All isolates were susceptible to ceftriaxone, to ciprofloxacin (except 3 isolates with MIC values between 0.25 and 0.5(g/ml), 3% were resistant to rifampicin and 2% were not susceptible to azithromicin. The prevalence of N. meningitidis carriage in men who have sex with men was high with a high rate of penicillin non-susceptible isolates. B was the prevalent serogroup.

Resumen En los períodos 2000-2004 y 2014-2015 se investigó la presencia de Neisseria meningitidis en 1.143 y 544 hombres que tienen sexo con hombres respectivamente, atendidos en el marco de un programa de enfermedades de transmisión sexual. Se determinó la prevalencia de este agente, su distribución en serogrupos y su sensibilidad a los antimicrobianos. Se obtuvieron hisopados faríngeos, rectales y uretrales, que se sembraron en medio selectivo Thayer Martin modificado. La identificación se realizó mediante pruebas bioquímicas convencionales y por espectrometría de masas (MALDI-TOF). En el segundo período estudiado, sobre 85 aislamientos procedentes de faringes se investigaron los serogrupos B, C, W e Y mediante PCR. Se determinó la CIM de penicilina, ceftriaxona, rifampicina, azitromicina y ciprofloxacina en 66 aislamientos obtenidos en el primer período y en 102 logrados en el segundo. La prevalencia de N. meningitidis fue del 17,8% en el primer período y del 28,1% en el segundo; este microorganismo se aisló más frecuentemente de fauces. Los serogrupos hallados fueron B (31,5%), Y (7,6%) y W (3,3%), con un 9,8% de aislamientos no capsulados; los restantes corresponderían a otros serogrupos. El 34,8% y el 63,7% de los aislados estudiados correspondientes al primer y segundo período, respectivamente, tuvieron sensibilidad intermedia a la penicilina, y un 11,8% de los evaluados en el segundo período fueron resistentes a dicho antibiótico. Todos los aislados estudiados fueron sensibles a ceftriaxona y a ciprofloxacina (excepto 3, con CIM entre 0,25 y 0,5(g/ml), el 3% fueron resistentes a rifampicina y el 2% fueron no sensibles a azitromicina. La portación de N. meningitidis en hombres que tienen sexo con hombres fue elevada y hubo un alto porcentaje de cepas no sensibles a penicilina. El serogrupo B fue prevalente.

ABSTRACT Objetivo: Descrever oito casos de doença invasiva por Haemophilus influenzae não tipo b em crianças internadas no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Descrição dos casos: Em 2015, ocorreram oito casos de doença invasiva por H. influenzae não tipo b. Nas cepas identificadas, testou-se a sensibilidade à ampicilina e a produção de betalactamase, e realizou-se a genotipagem. A tipagem molecular foi feita por Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis. Em quatro pacientes, o diagnóstico foi de bacteremia; em dois casos, H. influenzae foi identificado em líquido pleural, e dois pacientes tiveram meningite. Comorbidades foram encontradas em 37,5% dos pacientes. Com exceção da cepa de um dos pacientes (que não foi enviada ao laboratório de referência), todas eram sensíveis à ampicilina e não produtoras de betalactamase. A genotipagem identificou quatro cepas não capsulares, uma cepa tipo c e duas cepas tipo a. A tipagem molecular descartou a transmissão intra-hospitalar, já que todos os sorotipos eram distintos quanto ao genótipo. Comentários: O aumento dos casos de infecção invasiva por H. influenzae não tipo b foi real. Não houve transmissão intra-hospitalar e não foi encontrada justificativa para o aumento. Esses dados indicam a necessidade de vigilância para diagnosticar corretamente, monitorar e entender o espectro da doença causada por H. influenzae não tipo b.

ASTRACT Objective: To describe eight cases of invasive non-type b Haemophilus influenzae disease in children admitted to Hospital de Clínicas of Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Cases description: In 2015, there were eight cases of invasive non-type b H. influenzae disease. We tested the ampicillin sensitivity and beta-lactamase production of the strains identified and performed the genotyping. Molecular typing was determined by Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis. Four patients were diagnosed with bacteremia; in two cases, H. influenzae was detected in the pleural fluid, and two patients had meningitis. Patients with comorbidities represented 37.5% of cases. Except for the strain of one patient - not sent to the reference laboratory -, all were ampicillin-sensitive and non-beta-lactamase-producing. Genotyping identified four non-capsular, one type c, and two type a strains. Molecular typing ruled out nosocomial transmission since all serotypes were distinct regarding genotype. Comments: The rise in cases of invasive non-type b H. influenzae infection was real. There was no nosocomial transmission, and we found no justification for the increase. These data indicate the need for surveillance to correctly diagnose, monitor, and understand the spectrum of non-type b H. influenzae disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: determinar a expressão de neurotrofinas e seus receptores tirosina quinases em pacientes com osteossarcoma (OS) e sua correlação com desfechos clínicos. Métodos: biópsias de tumores primários de pacientes com OS tratados em uma única instituição, consecutivamente, entre 2002 e 2015, foram analisados através de imuno-histoquímica para expressão de receptores de tirosina quinase A e B (TrKA e TrKB), fator de crescimento neural (NGF) e fator neurotrófico derivado do cérebro (BDNF). De forma independente, dois patologistas classificaram os marcadores de imuno-histoquímica como negativos (negativos e focais fracos) ou positivos (moderado focal/difuso ou forte focal/difuso). Resultados: foram analisados dados de 19 pacientes (10 do sexo feminino e 9 do masculino) com mediana de idade de 12 anos (5 a 17,3 anos). Dos tumores, 83,3% estavam localizados em membros inferiores e 63,2% dos pacientes eram metastáticos ao diagnóstico. A sobrevida global em cinco anos foi de 55,3%. BDNF foi positivo em 16 pacientes (84%) e NGF em 14 pacientes (73%). TrKA e TrKB apresentaram coloração positiva em quatro (21,1%) e oito (42,1%) pacientes, respectivamente. A análise de sobrevida não demonstrou diferença significativa entre receptores TrK e neurotrofinas. Conclusão: amostras de OS primário expressam neurotrofinas e receptores TrK através de imuno-histoquímica. Estudos futuros podem auxiliar na identificação do papel das mesmas na patogênese do OS e determinar se há possível correlação prognóstica.

ABSTRACT Objective: to determine the expression of neurotrophins and their tyrosine-kinase receptors in patients with osteosarcoma (OS) and their correlation with clinical outcomes. Methods: we applied immunohistochemistry to biopsy specimens of patients consecutively treated for primary OS at a single institution between 2002 and 2015, analyzing them for expression receptors of tyrosine kinase A and B (TrKA and TrKB), neural growth factor (NGF) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Independently, two pathologists classified the immunohistochemical markers as negative (negative or weak focal) or positive (moderate focal/diffuse or strong focal/diffuse). Results: we analyzed data from 19 patients (10 females and 9 males), with median age of 12 years (5 to 17.3). Tumors’ location were 83.3% in the lower limbs, and 63.2% of patients had metastases at diagnosis. Five-year overall survival was 55.3%. BDNF was positive in 16 patients (84%) and NGF in 14 (73%). TrKA and TrKB presented positive staining in four (21,1%) and eight (42,1%) patients, respectively. Survival analysis showed no significant difference between TrK receptors and neurotrophins. Conclusion: primary OS samples express neurotrophins and TrK receptors by immunohistochemistry. Future studies should explore their role in OS pathogenesis and determine their prognostic significance in larger cohorts.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar la actividad de la AChE en sangre total y los niveles de FRAP en muestras de perros con tumores mamarios antes y después de la cirugía, así como la relación entre estas variables con marcadores inmunohistoquímicos de tumores (E-caderina, ki-67 , COX - 2). Materiales y métodos. En este estudio, 13 perros con tumores mamarios se dividieron en dos grupos (A y B). El grupo A estaba formado por perros con tumores menores de 3 cm de diámetro y el grupo B estaba formado por perros con tumor de 3 cm de diámetro o más. La actividad de AChE y los niveles de FRAP se evaluaron antes y después de la cirugía y la inmunohistoquímica se realizó en los tumores. Resultados. La actividad de la AChE aumentó significativamente (p<0.05) en perros con cáncer mamario en comparación con los animales control, y ni la cirugía ni el tamaño tumoral afectaron la actividad de la AChE (p>0.05). Los niveles de FRAP antes de la cirugía fueron significativamente más bajos (p<0.05) en comparación con los animales control. Además, los niveles de FRAP aumentaron significativamente después de la cirugía en animales del grupo A en comparación con los datos antes de la cirugía, hecho que no se observó en perros del grupo B. La E-cadherina mostró correlación positiva baja con los niveles de FRAP (r = 0.37, valor p=0.05); COX-2 mostró una moderada correlación positiva significativa con FRAP (r = 0.55, p-valor<0.05); Y la COX-2 mostró una correlación positiva de baja significación con la AChE (r = 0.32, p-valor = 0.01). Conclusiones. AChE y los niveles de antioxidantes se modifican en perros con cáncer de mama. Estas variables están implicadas en diversas funciones fisiológicas, y por lo tanto, pueden estar relacionadas con la patogénesis de la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate AChE activity in total blood and the FRAP levels in samples from dogs with mammary tumors before and after surgery, as well as the relationship between these variables with immunohistochemical markers of tumor (E-caderina, ki-67, COX-2). Materials and methods. In this study, 13 dogs with mammary tumors were divided into two groups (A and B). The group A was formed by dogs with tumors smaller than 3 cm of diameter, and the group B was formed by dogs with tumor of 3 cm of diameter or larger. The AChE activity and FRAP levels were evaluated before and after surgery and the immunohistochemistry were performed at the tumors. Results. The AChE activity was significantly increased (p<0.05) in dogs with mammary cancer compared to control animals, and neither surgery or tumor size affected the AChE activity (p>0.05). FRAP levels before surgery were significantly lower (p<0.05) compared to control animals. Also, FRAP levels increased significantly after surgery in animals of the group A compared to data before surgery, a fact not observed in dogs from the group B. E-cadherin showed low significant positive correlation with FRAP levels (r=0.37, p-value=0.05); COX-2 showed a moderate significant positive correlation to FRAP (r=0.55, p-value<0.05); and COX-2 showed a low significant positive correlation to AChE (r=0.32, p-value=0.01). Conclusions. AChE and antioxidant levels are modified in dogs with mammary cancer. These variables are involved in various physiological functions, and thus, they might be related to disease pathogenesis.

ABSTRACT Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem in Brazil. HBV endemicity is usually moderate to low according to geographic regions, and high prevalence of this virus has been reported in people of some specific Brazilian counties, including those with a strong influence of Italian colonization in southern Brazil. Analysis of HBV diversity and identification of the main risk factors to HBV infection are necessary to understand hepatitis B epidemiology in these high prevalence regions in southern Brazil. Objective To investigate epidemiological characteristics and HBV genotypes and subgenotypes circulating in a specific city with high HBV prevalence. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed with 102 HBV chronically infected individuals, recruited in reference outpatient clinics for viral hepatitis in a city of high HBV prevalence (Bento Gonçalves) in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil between July and December 2010. Socio-demographic, clinical and behavior-related variables were collected in a structured questionnaire. HBV serological markers (HBsAg, anti-HBc), viral load, genotypes/subgenotypes and drug resistance were evaluated and comparatively analyzed among all patients. Results The HBV infected subjects had a mean age of 44.9 (±12.2) years, with 86 patients (84.3%) reporting to have a family history of HBV infection, 51 (50.0%) to share personal objects, and were predominantly of Italian descendants (61; 64.9%). There was a predominance of genotype D (49/54; 90.7%), but genotype A was also detected (5/54; 9.3%). Subgenotypes D1 (1; 4.7%), D2 (3; 14.3%), and D3 (17; 81.0%) were identified. LAM-resistant mutation (rtM204I) and ADV-resistant mutations (rtA181V) were detected in only one patient each. Conclusions These results demonstrate a pivotal role of intrafamilial transmission for HBV spreading in this population. Furthermore, there is a high prevalence of HBV genotype D in this region.

RESUMO O uso de porta-enxertos resistentes é um dos métodos mais efetivos para o controle de patógenos de solo em cultivos de tomateiro. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a reação de acessos de Solanum stramonifolium a Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol) raças 2 e 3 e a Meloidogyne enterolobii (Me). As mudas foram formadas em bandejas e inoculadas separadamente com Fol raças 2 e 3 aos 50 dias após o semeio, mediante imersão das raízes em suspensão de esporos (1×106 microconídios mL-1). Em seguida, essas mudas foram transplantadas para vasos contendo solo esterilizado. Para a inoculação do nematoide, foram utilizadas plantas com 27 DAS, transplantadas para vasos e inoculadas com 6.000 ovos e juvenis de segundo estádio. As avaliações foram realizadas aos 34 (Fol) e aos 64 (Me) dias após a inoculação. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento de blocos casualizados com cinco repetições, em que cada parcela foi composta por um vaso com três plantas (Fol) e um vaso com uma planta (Me). As testemunhas suscetíveis a Fol raças 2 e 3 e a Me apresentaram 100% de incidência. Todos os acessos foram resistentes a Fol raça 2, enquanto os acessos CNPH-19, CNPH-22, CNPH-23, CNPH-25, CNPH-120, CNPH-122 e CNPH-349 apresentaram resistência múltipla aos patógenos, indicando grande potencial para uso como porta enxertos resistentes. Os acessos CNPH-24, CNPH-119, CNPH-121 e CNPH-336 também apresentaram resistência ao nematoide. Contudo, estes acessos apresentaram leves sintomas de escurecimento nos tecidos vasculares quando inoculados com Fol raça 3. Este sintoma também foi observado nos acessos CNPH-21, CNPH-107 e CNPH-117. Os demais acessos apresentaram resistência a Fol raça 3 e suscetibilidade a Me.

ABSTRACT Resistant rootstocks is one of the most effective method to control soilborne pathogens in tomato crops. Thus, this study was installed to evaluate the reaction of Solanum stramonifolium accesses to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol) races 2 and 3 and to Meloidogyne enterolobii (Me). The seedlings were grown in trays and inoculated separately with Fol races 2 and 3 at 50 days after planting by immersing the roots in the spore suspension (1×106 microconidia mL-1). Then, seedlings were transplanted in pots containing sterilized soil and kept in greenhouse conditions. To study the reaction of S. stramonifolium accesses to nematodes, we used 27-day old seedlings that were also planted in pots and inoculated with 6,000 eggs and second-stage juveniles in greenhouse conditions. The experiments were evaluated in the 34th day (Fol) and in the 64th day (Me) after inoculation. The experiment consisted of a randomized block design with five replications, where each plot consisted of one pot with three plants (Fol) and one pot with one plant (Me). We observed that the plants used as controls, susceptible to Fol races 2 and 3 and Me, presented 100% of incidence. All accesses were resistant to Fol race 2 and the accesses CNPH-19, CNPH-22, CNPH-23, CNPH-25, CNPH-120, CNPH-122 and CNPH-349 presented multiple resistance to pathogens, indicating great potential for using as resistant rootstock. The CNPH-24, CNPH-119, CNPH-121 and CNPH-336 accesses also presented resistance to nematode. However, they presented slight browning symptoms of vascular tissues when they were inoculated with Fol race 3. This symptom was also observed in the CNPH-21, CNPH-107 and CNPH-117 accesses. All other accesses were resistance to Fol race 3 and susceptible to Me.

RESUMO Mimosa scabrella é uma espécie pioneira que ocorre principalmente na floresta ombrófila mista do Sul do Brasil, apresentando considerável importância econômica. Considerando as limitadas informações acerca dos substratos mais adequados para a produção de mudas da espécie, neste trabalho avaliou-se o efeito combinado do uso de hidrogel com três tipos de substratos e quatro fertilizantes no crescimento inicial e qualidade de mudas de M. scabrella. Os substratos foram preparados com proporções distintas de um substrato orgânico comercial, vermiculita (VM) e casca de pinus (PB): 1 (70% de TF, 10% de VM e 20% de PB), 2 (40% de TF e VM e 20% of PB), e 3 (70% de TF, 10% de VM e 20% de PB). Os fertilizantes consistiram de uma fórmula de liberação lenta (A), o tradicional NPK (B), um composto de superfosfato simples e de cloreto de potássio (C) e com fertilizante ausente (D). Os três compostos de substratos foram combinados com cada fertilizante na presença ou ausência de hidrogel (arranjo fatorial). O uso de hidrogel promoveu um efeito positivo no crescimento das mudas de M. scabrella, provavelmente retendo mais água e permitindo maior absorção de nutrientes. No geral, o polímero implicou em aumento no índice de qualidade de Dickson (DQI). Adicionalmente, a combinação do composto orgânico e vermiculita em proporções equilibradas adicionado de casca de pinus (substrato 2) constituíram o melhor substrato. A adição dos fertilizantes A e B resultaram na melhor performance de crescimento. Concluiu-se que a combinação de hidrogel com substrato composto e fertilizantes melhoraram os índices de qualidade de mudas de M. scabrella.

ABSTRACT Mimosa scabrella is a pioneer species that occurs mainly in the ombrophilous mixed forests of southern Brazil, assuming considerable economic relevance. As limited information is available concerning the most adequate substrates for producing seedlings of this species, we evaluated the combined effect of hydrogel with three types of substrates and four fertilizers in the initial growth and quality of seedlings of M. scabrella. The substrates were prepared with distinct proportions of a commercial organic substrate, vermiculite (VM) and pine bark (PB): 1 (70% of TF, 10% of VM and 20% of PB), 2 (40% of each TF and VM and 20% of PB), and 3 (70% of TF, 10% of VM and 20% of PB). The fertilizers consisted of a slow release formula (A), a traditional NPK (B), a compost of superphosphate and potassium chloride (C) and no fertilizer (D). The three soil mixtures were combined with each fertilizer in the presence or absence of hydrogel (factorial arrangement). The use of hydrogel promoted a positive effect on the growth of M. scabrella seedlings, probably by retaining more water and enabling increased nutrient absorption. In general, the polymer implicated in increased Dickson quality index (DQI). Additionally, the combination of organic compound and vermiculite in equilibrated proportions aid by pinus bark (substrate 2) were the best substrate. Finally, adding the fertilizers A or B resulted in the best growth performance. In conclusion, the combined effect of hydrogel, substrate mixture and fertilizers improved the quality indexes of M. scabrella seedlings.

RESUMO Phytophthora capsici causa prejuízos significativos em cultivos de abóbora (Cucurbita moschata) e morangas (Cucurbita maxima), incluindo a podridão de raízes e coroa, o crestamento foliar e a podridão de frutos, o que pode resultar em até 100% de perdas na produção. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a reação de genótipos de abóboras e morangas a P. capsici. Inicialmente um experimento foi realizado para avaliar a agressividade de isolados de P. capsici de diferentes regiões. Posteriormente, dois experimentos foram realizados em casa de vegetação com 16 genótipos de C. moschata e sete de C. maxima em anos distintos, utilizando os isolados PCA 40 e PCA 43, identificados como os mais agressivos em teste preliminar. Como testemunhas foram utilizadas a cultivar híbrida Jabras e a cultivar de pimentão Cascadura Ikeda (padrões de suscetibilidade ao patógeno). Os genótipos foram semeados em vasos contendo solo autoclavado. Quatorze dias após, as plantas foram inoculadas mediante a deposição de 3,0 mL de suspensão a 2,0x104 zoósporos/mL no solo, próximo ao coleto das plantas. A incidência da doença foi avaliada 8 dias após a inoculação. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em delineamento de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições e parcelas de quatro plantas. Os genótipos apresentaram diferentes níveis de resistência à doença, TX 10350, PHYT-043, CNPH-3001-1 e MAM-2523-1 se destacaram por apresentarem maior resistência à doença em ambos os experimentos. Contudo, nenhum dos genótipos apresentou resistência completa. Os resultados indicam o uso promissor destes genótipos para a obtenção de linhagens resistentes, visando a obtenção de cultivares híbridas resistentes à podridão de fitóftora.

ABSTRACT Phytophthora capsici causes significant losses in squash (Cucurbita moschata) and butternut squash (Cucurbita maxima), including root and crown rot, leaf blight and fruit rot, which can result in up to 100% loss in production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reaction of squash and butternut squash genotypes to P. capsici. Initially an experiment was conducted to evaluate the aggressiveness of isolates of P. capsici from different regions. Later two experiments were carried out in a greenhouse with 16 genotypes of C. moschata and seven of C. maxima in different years, using the most aggressive isolates, PCA 40 and PCA 43 identified as the most aggressive in a preliminary test. As control we used the hybrid cultivar Jabras and the pepper cultivar Cascadura Ikeda (susceptibility patterns to the pathogen). The genotypes were sown in pots of four liters containing autoclaved soil. Fourteen days later, plants were inoculated by depositing 3.0 mL of the suspension of 2.0x104 zoospores/mL in the soil, near to plant stem. The disease incidence was evaluated 8 days after inoculation. The experiments were conducted in a randomized block design with five replicates of four plants. The genotypes showed different levels of disease resistance, TX 10350, PHYT-043, CNPH-3001-1 and MAM-2523-1 stood out because they showed greater degree of resistance to P. capsici in both trials. However, none of the genotypes showed complete resistance. The results indicate the promising use of these genotypes to obtain resistant lines, aiming to obtain hybrid cultivars resistant to Phytophthora root rot.

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem in Brazil. Several risk factors are involved in HBV infection and their identification by a rational and essential approach is required to prevent the transmission of this infection in Brazil. OBJECTIVES To evaluate risk factors associated with HBV infection in South Brazil. METHODS A total of 260 patients with HBV and 260 controls from Caxias do Sul (state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil) participated in this study. All participants were given a standard questionnaire to yield the sociodemographic information and to identify HBV risk factors. HBV infection was detected by HBsAg test in all participants. FINDINGS HBV infection in these cases was strongly associated with history of a family member HBV-infected, mainly mother [odds ratio (OR) = 4.86; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.69–13.91], father (OR = 5.28; 95% CI: 1.58–17.71), and/or siblings (OR = 22.16; 95% CI: 9.39–52.25); sharing personal objects (OR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.37–2.38); and having history of blood transfusion (OR = 2.05; 95% CI: 1.10–2.84). CONCLUSIONS HBV infection was strongly associated with having a family member infected with hepatitis B, sharing personal objects, and having history of blood transfusion.