Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Little information is available on the evolution of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09-related mortality in Brazil. METHODS: During the period 2009-2014, official epidemiological surveillance and mortality data were used to ascertain influenza-related deaths in the Santa Catarina State in Brazil. RESULTS: The highest overall mortality rate (2.3 per 100,000) was observed in 2009. Pregnant women constituted the highest risk group (mortality rate 18.0 per 100,000). Following vaccination of high-risk groups, the rate reduced sharply but peaked again in 2012. It subsequently decreased, albeit more gradually. CONCLUSIONS: Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 mortality demonstrated a cyclic pattern, with two peaks followed by a gradual decrease.

Aeromonas spp. were identified in five (2,7%) of 182 diarrheal stool cultures, A. caviae was predominant, resistant mainly to ampicillin and cephalotin. This is the first study showing the presence of Aeromonas spp. in diarrheal stools of outpatients in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil.

A mensuração dos metabólitos do óxido nítrico pode ser útil para a melhor compreensão de diferentes processos fisiopatológicos. Este estudo avaliou a influência de diferentes anticoagulantes (ácido etilenodiaminotetracético [EDTA], citrato e heparina) e do armazenamento a -20ºC por quatro meses sobre os níveis de nitrito, sendo estes mensurados em amostras de soro e plasma pelo método de Griess. Os tipos de amostra utilizados (soro ou plasma) e de anticoagulante usado na coleta não influenciaram significativamente os níveis de nitrito, independentemente de as dosagens serem realizadas em amostras frescas ou naquelas mantidas a -20ºC por quatro meses.

The measurement of nitric oxide metabolites may be useful for better understanding of different physiopathological processes. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different anticoagulants (EDTA, citrate and heparin) and four-month storage at -20ºC on nitrite levels. The serum and plasma samples were analyzed by using the Griess method. The type of sample (serum or plasma) or anticoagulant used in the collection did not influence on nitrite levels significantly, regardless the fact they were fresh or four-month samples stored at -20ºC.