This study proposes a screen of variables that have an influence on the modification of the bio-oil chemical composition as a unique critical quality attribute (CQA) throughout the pyrolytic process (zeolite, ZSM-5) by using a 24 full factorial design, followed by optimization through a response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) involving samples of biomass sorghum BRS716 (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench). The pyrolysis of pure biomasses and the biomass impregnated with the catalyst was carried out in a vertical bench furnace at 500 °C. Screening design involved factor variation in two levels (-1 and +1) of four variables as critical process parameters (CPPs) such as furnace heating rate (°C min-1), nitrogen flow (mL min-1), amount of biomass (g), and catalyst (% m/m), leading to obtaining bio-oil. Thus, it was possible to create a response surface from these two variables (biomass and catalyst), in which a minimum critical point was reached. The production of a bio-oil rich in hydrocarbon compounds is possible, but a large amount of catalyst was required. Two analytical techniques based on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, provided additional information to fully characterize bio-oil chemical composition.

ABSTRACT: Leptospirosis is a disease that causes economic and social impact, as it affects wild and domestic animals and humans. There may be peculiarities in the epidemiology of this disease in the Caatinga biome, Brazil, where the environment is adverse and the etiologic agent, Leptospira spp., requires alternative transmission routes. Considering that in bovine leptospirosis the genital carrier is constantly neglected and the lack of reports on the role of bulls in the epidemiology of the bovine genital leptospirosis (BGL) syndrome, mainly in semiarid conditions such as Caatinga biome, this study aimed to investigate bulls maintained in Caatinga biome conditions as genital carriers of leptospires. Urinary tract (urine, bladder, and kidney) and reproductive tract (vas deferens, cauda epididymis, and vesicular gland) samples were collected from 42 slaughtered bulls. Microscopic agglutination test (MAT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and microbiological isolation were included as diagnostic methods. Anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies were found in 17 (40.48%) animals, while 26 animals (61.90%) had at least one organ or urine with leptospiral DNA, and 10 animals (23.81%) were positive at bacteriological culture. Sequenced samples targeting the LipL32 gene showed 99% similarity with Leptospira borgpetersenii. Molecular analysis of samples from the vas deferens and cauda epididymis is recommended for the diagnosis of genital leptospirosis in bulls and, if it is impossible to collect these tissues, semen can be used. In conclusion, this study provides important information relating to bulls from the Caatinga biome, Brazil, as carriers of genital leptospirosis. The results indicate that, even under adverse environmental conditions, leptospires may survive and propagate, mainly due to the characteristic of genital carriers for the sexually spreading of adapted Leptospira species without influence by external variables. Thus, prevention and control strategies for bovine leptospirosis need to include actions aimed at the genital carrier.

RESUMO: A leptospirose é uma doença que causa impacto econômico e social, pois afeta animais silvestres, domésticos e humanos. É possível que existam peculiaridades na epidemiologia desta doença no bioma Caatinga, Brasil, onde o ambiente é adverso e o agente etiológico, Leptospira spp., requer vias alternativas de transmissão. Considerando que na leptospirose bovina o portador genital é constantemente negligenciado e a falta de relatos sobre o papel dos touros na epidemiologia da síndrome da leptospirose genital bovina (BGL), principalmente em condições semiáridas como no bioma Caatinga, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar touros mantidos em condições do bioma Caatinga como portadores genitais de leptospiras. Amostras do trato urinário (urina, bexiga e rim) e do trato reprodutivo (ducto deferente, cauda do epidídimo e glândula vesicular) foram coletadas de 42 touros abatidos. Teste de soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM), reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e isolamento microbiológico foram incluídos como métodos de diagnóstico. Anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp. foram encontrados em 17 (40,48%) animais, enquanto 26 animais (61,90%) apresentaram pelo menos um órgão ou urina com DNA leptospírico, e 10 animais (23,81%) foram positivos na cultura bacteriológica. As amostras sequenciadas a partir do gene LipL32 apresentaram 99% de similaridade com Leptospira borgpetersenii. Recomenda-se a análise molecular de amostras de ducto deferente e cauda do epidídimo para o diagnóstico de leptospirose genital em touros e, na impossibilidade da coleta desses tecidos, o sêmen pode ser utilizado. Em conclusão, este estudo fornece informações importantes sobre touros do bioma Caatinga, Brasil, como portadores de leptospirose genital. Os resultados indicam que, mesmo em condições ambientais adversas, as leptospiras podem sobreviver e se propagar, principalmente devido à característica de os portadores genitais disseminarem sexualmente espécies adaptadas de Leptospira sem influência de variáveis externas. Assim, as estratégias de prevenção e controle da leptospirose bovina precisam incluir ações voltadas para o portador genital.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sunflower meal (SFM) inclusion on the performance, nutrient digestibility, and respirometric parameters in sheep. Twenty-four Dorper × Santa Inês uncastrated males, with an average age of 5 mo and initial body weight (BW) of 27.91±6.0 kg, were distributed in a randomized block design with four treatment diets containing 0, 100, 200, and 300 g of SFM/kg of total dry matter, replacing soybean meal. Intake, weight gain, ingestive behavior, and in vitro digestibility were evaluated according to the SFM inclusion. The respirometric parameters were evaluated in an open-circuit respirometric chamber. There was a quadratic response in dry matter intake expressed according to the SFM inclusion, with minimum points of 90.56 g/kg 0.75 BW for inclusion levels of 96 g of SFM/kg. A linear decrease in the in vivo digestibility of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber, and non-fibrous carbohydrate and in vitro fermentation of dry matter and fibrous carbohydrates was observed in response to SFM inclusion. These results reflect the higher fiber content of the byproduct, which reduced the non-fibrous carbohydrates in the diets. Despite the change in nutrient availability, average daily gain (299 g/day), O 2 consumption (26.24 L/kg 0.75 BW), and CH 4 production (2.25 L/kg 0.75 BW) were not influenced by the SFM inclusion, indicating that changes in the nutritional value of the diet did not affect the animals’ energetic metabolism. Sunflower meal inclusion decreased the digestibility but did not affect the animal gain and the respirometric parameters. The SFM can replace soybean meal in the diet of growing lambs; however, it has a maximum inclusion point of 88 g SFM/kg for feed conversion, which is a necessary factor for evaluating the replacement cost.

RESUMO: A leptospirose é uma zoonose mundial causada pela bactéria Leptospira spp. que afeta seres humanos, animais domésticos e selvagens. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar um estudo transversal de leptospirose na população canina da microrregião Brejo Paraibano, semiárido do Nordeste do Brasil. No período de maio a outubro de 2017, amostras de sangue de 414 cães foram coletadas nas cidades de Alagoa Grande (n=100), Areia (n=79), Bananeiras (n=72), Alagoa Nova (n=73), Serraria (n=25), Pilões (n=25), Borborema (n=20) e Matinhas (n=20). Os tutores dos cães amostrados responderam a um questionário epidemiológico, sendo obtidas informações sobre os animais, proprietário, residência e criação dos cães. Posteriormente as amostras de soro foram submetidas à prova de soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM), utilizando-se uma coleção de 23 sorovares antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:50. Dos 414 cães analisados 52 foram sorreativos, resultando em uma prevalência aparente de 12.6% e uma prevalência real de 12,2%. Cães sororreativos foram encontrados nos oito municípios. Os cães foram reativos para o sorogrupo Icterohaemorrhagiae (76,9%), Autumnalis (13,55%), Pomona (3,8%), Grippotyphosa (3,8%) and Serjoe (1,9%) Os títulos de anticorpos variaram de 50 a 800. A análise estatística (regressão de Poisson robusta) detectou seis fatores associados à soropositividade, incluindo o período chuvoso (razão de prevalência - RP=1,94; P=0,013), cães machos (RP=2,10; P=0,005), animais com idade maior que cinco anos (RP=4,21; P=0,012), consumo de água não tratada (RP=1,87; P=0,043), cães com livre acesso à rua (RP=2,15; P=0,011) e contato com animais silvestres (RP=3,54; P=0,050). Os resultados desse estudo indicaram que há a exposição por Leptospira spp. em cães da microrregião do Brejo paraibano. O sorogrupo Icterohaemorrhagiae possui alto potencial zoonótico e foi o mais frequente nos animais soropositivos. A alta prevalência real de Leptospira spp. em uma região de transmissão da região semiárida da Paraíba e a ocorrência de animais sororreativos em todos os municípios sugerem uma ampla distribuição da infecção e reforçam a necessidade de medidas preventivas para evitar a infecção em animais de estimação e, consequentemente, em seres humanos. A análise dos fatores associados à prevalência sugere maior cuidado com os cães.

ABSTRACT: Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by the bacteria Leptospira spp. that affects humans, domestic and wild animals. The present work aimed to conduct a cross-sectional survey for leptospirosis in the canine population of the Brejo Paraibano microregion, semiarid of Northeastern Brazil. From May to October 2017, blood samples from 414 dogs were collected in the counties of Alagoa Grande (n=100), Areia (n=79), Bananeiras (n=72), Alagoa Nova (n=73), Serrraria (n=25), Pilões (n=25), Borborema (n=20) and Matinhas (n=20). The tutors of the sampled dogs answered an epidemiological questionnaire, obtaining information about the animals, owner, residence and breeding of the dogs. Subsequently, the serum samples were subjected to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), using a collection of 23 serovar pathogenic antigens and using the 1:50 dilution as the cutoff point. Of the 414 dogs analyzed 52 were seroreactive, resulting in an apparent prevalence of 12.6% and a real prevalence of 12.2%. Seroreactive dogs were found in the eight counties. Dogs were reactive for the serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (76.9%), Autumnalis (13.55%), Pomona (3.8%), Grippotyphosa (3.8%) and Serjoe (1.9%) Antibody titers ranged from 50 to 800. The statistical analysis (robust Poisson regression) detected six factors associated with seropositivity, including the rainy season (prevalence ratio; PR=1.94, P=0.013), male dogs (PR=2.10, P=0.005), animals with age greater than five years (PR=4.21, P=0.012), consumption of untreated water (PR=1.87, P=0.043), free access of dogs to street (PR=2.15, P=0.011) and contact with wildlife (PR=3.54, P=0.050). The serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae has a high zoonotic potential and was the most frequent in seropositive animals. The high real prevalence of Leptospira spp. in a transmission region of the semiarid region of Paraíba and the occurrence of seroreactive animals in all the counties suggest wide distribution of the infection and reinforce the need for preventive measures to avoid infection in pets and, consequently, to humans. The analysis of factors associated with the prevalence suggest greater manegment cares with the dogs.

Malaria, a parasitic infection caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is a serious global public health problem. The enzyme enoyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) reductase present in a limiting step in the biosynthesis of fatty acids type II was used to search for novel molecules with potential inhibitor by virtual screening techniques. A flavonoid library obtained in ChEMBL database (n = 4,008) was filtered through physico-chemical similarity using the Euclidean distance as a criterion. The selected molecules were subjected to molecular docking using the scoring function GridScore in the DOCK 6.5 software. The top 30 ranked molecules by molecular docking were submitted to the AuPosSOM 2.1 software with the aim of clustering molecules by means of intermolecular interactions in order to understand the patterns of these interactions with enoyl-ACP reductase from Plasmodium falciparum (PfENR). We observed the importance of flavonoid moiety to hydrophobic interactions with the active site of enzyme, this confirmed the choice to study this metabolite class as PfENR inhibitors. Moreover, it was possible to recognize which intermolecular interactions contribute to the molecular recognition process.

ABSTRACT Introduction: There is a potentially protective effect of obesity when it coexists with cardiovascular disease, known as the “obesity paradox.” It could be explained by the fact that anthropometric measurements are not a reliable marker of body fat. In this study we propose to estimate body fat with a non-invasive method and study its relationship with morbidity and mortality in cardiac surgery. Methods: We conducted a prospective and observational study in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery. We analyzed demographic, anthropometric and clinical variables along with the estimation of body composition using bioelectric impedance, to study their association to hospitalization days and adverse events after cardiac surgery. Results: In the analysis of 98 patients, we found a direct relationship between the percentage of body fat and the length of hospital stay, independent of age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and surgical risk (coefficient of 0.27, p = 0.021). In addition, patients who had mediastinitis showed a significantly higher body fat (31.55 ± 0.64% versus 27.13 ± 7.9%, p <0.001), and patients who died had a tendency to have more fat mass (36.05 ± 3.19% versus 27.20 ± 7.82%, p = 0.08). Conclusion: Increased body fat as assessed with BIA was related to morbidity in cardiac surgery. Although this is biologically plausible, it would be necessary to carry out larger studies in order to definitively establish the “BMI paradox”.

RESUMEN Introducción: Existe un efecto potencialmente protector de la obesidad cuando coexiste con la enfermedad cardiovascular, conocido como “paradoja de la obesidad”. Es posible que se deba a que las medidas antropométricas no sean un marcador fidedigno de la grasa corporal. En este estudio, proponemos estimar la grasa corporal con métodos no invasivos y estudiar su relación con la morbimortalidad en cirugía cardíaca. Métodos: Llevamos a cabo un estudio prospectivo y observacional en pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía cardíaca. Analizamos variables demográficas, antropométricas y clínicas junto con la estimación de la composición corporal a través de la impedancia bioeléctrica, para relacionarlas con los días de internación y eventos adversos luego de la cirugía cardíaca. Resultados: En el análisis de 98 pacientes, encontramos una relación directa entre el porcentaje de grasa corporal y los días de internación, independiente de la edad, el sexo, el índice de masa corporal y el riesgo prequirúrgico (coeficiente de 0,27, p: 0,021). Además, los pacientes que presentaron mediastinitis tuvieron una grasa corporal significativamente mayor (31,55 ± 0,64% contra 27,13 ± 7,9%, p <0,001), y los pacientes que fallecieron presentaron una tendencia a presentar más masa grasa (36,05 ± 3,19% contra 27,20 ± 7,82%, p: 0,08). Conclusiones: La mayor cantidad de grasa corporal estimada por análisis de impedancia bioeléctrica se relacionó con una mayor morbilidad en la cirugía cardíaca. A pesar de que esto es biológicamente plausible, sería necesario llevar a cabo estudios de mayor tamaño para poder esclarecer definitivamente la “paradoja del índice de masa corporal”.

RESUMO: Foram utilizados 12 lagartos Teiús (Tupinambis merianae) do Nordeste do Brasil. Encontramos nove animais positivos (75%) para Leptospira sp. na PCR e seis (50%) soropositivos. O sequenciamento de DNA de Leptospira sp. revelou 99% de semelhança com L. interrogans. Os resultados indicam que esta espécie pode desempenhar um papel importante na transmissão da leptospirose humana.

ABSTRACT: We used 12 tegu lizards (Tupinambis merianae) from northeastern Brazil, and we reported nine (75%) Leptospira sp. PCR-positive animals and six (50%) seropositive. Leptospira sp. DNA sequencing revealed 99% similarity with L. interrogans. Our findings indicated that this species may play a role in the transmission of human leptospirosis.

Abstract Background: Defects in DNA methylation have been shown to be associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypercholesterolemia. To analyze the methylation profile of the ADRB3 gene and correlate it with lipid profile, lipid intake, and oxidative stress based on malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), homocysteine and folic acid levels, nutritional status, lifestyle, and socioeconomic variables in an adult population. A cross-sectional epidemiological study representative of the East and West regions of the municipality of João Pessoa, Paraíba state, Brazil, enrolled 265 adults of both genders. Demographic, lifestyle, and socioeconomic questionnaires and a 24-h recall questionnaire were applied by trained interviewers' home. Nutritional and biochemical evaluation (DNA methylation, lipid profile, MDA, TAC, homocysteine and folic acid levels) was performed. Results: DNA hypermethylation of the ADRB3 gene, analyzed in leukocytes, was present in 50% of subjects and was associated with a higher risk of being overweight (OR 3.28; p = 0.008) or obese (OR 3.06; p = 0.017), a higher waist–hip ratio in males (OR 1.17; p = 0.000), greater intake of trans fats (OR 1.94; p = 0.032), higher LDL (OR 2.64; p = 0.003) and triglycerides (OR 1.81; p = 0.031), and higher folic acid levels (OR 1.85; p = 0.022). Conclusions: These results suggest that epigenetic changes in the ADRB3 gene locus may explain the development of obesity and non-communicable diseases associated with trans-fat intake, altered lipid profile, and elevated folic acid. Because of its persistence, DNA methylation may have an impact in adults, in association with the development of non-communicable diseases. This study is the first population-based study of the ADRB3 gene, and the data further support evaluation of ADRB3 DNA methylation as an effective biomarker.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of different carbohydrate and lipid (CHO/L) ratios on the performance and energy metabolism of hybrid catfish (♂Pseudoplatystoma corruscans × ♀ Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum). One hundred and sixty-eight fish (104.9±16.5 g BW) were distributed into 24 100-L tanks. The experiment was performed using a randomised block design with four CHO/L ratios (0.45, 1.00, 1.66 and 2.85) and six replications. Growth performance, protein content, glucose and triglycerides in plasma, muscle and liver, and the hepatic activity of the malic and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) enzymes were measured after 60 feeding days. No significant differences were observed in growth performance, protein and triglycerides of plasma and muscle, hepatic protein or malic enzyme activity. CHO/L: 2.85 provided the highest plasma and liver glucose, while CHO/L: 0.45 showed high liver triglycerides. A linear effect was found for the hepatic activity of G6PD and dietary starch levels (R2=0.93). The hepatic activity of G6PD was greater in CHO/L=2.85 than for CHO/L: 0.45. In conclusion, the limit of dietary starch inclusion and lipids were 15% and 9.00%, respectively (CHO/L: 1.66), and this level did not affect the energy metabolism of the juvenile hybrid catfish.

RESUMO Introdução: A seleção brasileira de handebol de praia tradicionalmente realiza uma intertemporada de treinamentos intensos com várias sessões diárias nas semanas anteriores às principais competições. Isso pode gerar um desgaste excessivo, mas a monitoração fisiológica pode orientar a comissão técnica para modular as cargas de treino, evitando esse desgaste. Objetivo: Monitorar as respostas fisiológicas de atletas da seleção brasileira feminina de handebol de praia em uma intertemporada de treinamento com cargas moduladas em função das respostas fisiológicas. Métodos: Dezessete atletas (27,1 ± 3,8 anos) foram avaliadas antes do início da intertemporada (El), no 8° dia (E2) e no 18° dia (E3). Foram coletadas amostras de sangue para posterior análise de marcadores de desgaste muscular (creatina quinase [CK] e lactato desidrogenase [LDH]), um registro eletrocardiográfico foi feito para avaliação da modulação autonômica cardíaca (MAC) e aplicou-se o questionário Profile of Mood States (POMS) para avaliação do estado de humor. Os resultados eram informados à comissão técnica, que realizava ajustes nos treinos em função do estado individual de cada atleta. Resultados: A CK aumentou significativamente de El para E2 (131,1 ± 80,9 vs. 212,9 ± 131,7) e ficou inalterada (212,9 ± 185,6) até E3, enquanto o LDH foi significativamente reduzido de E2 para E3 (590,7 ± 120,2 vs. 457,8±86,6), terminando a intertemporada com valores similares a E1 (512,7 ± 190,6). A única alteração notada foi a sensação subjetiva de fadiga do questionário POMS, que se apresentou significativamente elevada no E2 (4,82 ± 4,05) e no E3 (5,5 ± 4,8) em relação ao E1 (2,06 ± 2,61), mas sem alteração da perturbação total de humor detectada neste instrumento. Conclusão: Com a modulação das cargas de treinamento em função de resultados de testes fisiológicos, as atletas da seleção brasileira de handebol de praia respondem de forma fisiologicamente adequada, mesmo perante brusco aumento das cargas de treinamento por 18 dias consecutivos. Nível de evidência III; Estudo diagnóstico - Investigação de um exame para diagnóstico.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The Brazilian national women's beach handball team traditionally holds intense pre-competition training with several daily sessions in the weeks before major matches. This can cause excessive physical strain, but physiological monitoring can guide the coaching staff to modulate the training load, preventing this excessive strain. Objective: To monitor the physiological responses of members of the Brazilian national women's beach handball team in a pre-competition training program with loads modulated according to individual physiological response. Methods: Seventeen athletes (27.1 ± 3.8 years) were assessed before the start of the pre-competition training period (E1), on Day 8 (E2) and Day 18 (E3). Blood samples were taken for subsequent analysis of muscular damage markers (creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)). An ECG test was performed to assess cardiac autonomic modulation (CAM), and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire was applied to assess mood. The results were reported to the coaching staff, who made training adjustments according to the individual status of each athlete. Results: CK increased significantly from E1 to E2 (131.1 ± 80.9 vs 212.9 ± 131.7) and remained unchanged (212.9 ± 185.6) up to E3, while LDH was significantly reduced from E2 to E3 (590.7 ± 120.2 vs 457.8 ± 86.6), finishing the pre-competition training program with values similar to E1 (512.7 ± 190.6). The only change noted was the subjective sensation of fatigue from the POMS questionnaire that was significantly higher in E2 (4.82 ± 4.05) and E3 (5.5 ± 4.8) compared to E1 (2.06 ± 2.61), but no changes in total mood disturbance were detected in this instrument. Conclusion: With the modulation of training loads based on results of physiological tests, the members of the Brazilian national women's beach handball team responded in a physiologically adequate manner, even when faced with a sudden increase in training load for 18 consecutive days. Level of evidence III; Diagnostic study-investigation of a diagnostic test.

RESUMEN Introducción: La selección brasileña de handball de playa tradicionalmente realiza una intertemporada de entrenamientos intensos con varias sesiones diarias en las semanas anteriores a las principales competiciones. Eso puede generar un desgaste excesivo, pero la monitorización fisiológica puede orientar a la comisión técnica para modular las cargas de entrenamiento, evitando ese desgaste. Objetivo: Monitorizar las respuestas fisiológicas de atletas de la selección brasileña femenina de handball de playa en una intertemporada de entrenamiento con cargas moduladas en función de las respuestas fisiológicas. Métodos: Diecisiete atletas (27,1 ± 3,8 años) fueron evaluadas antes del inicio de la intertemporada (El), en el 8° día (E2) y en el 18° día (E3). Fueron colectadas muestras de sangre para posterior análisis de marcadores de desgaste muscular (creatina quinasa [CK] y lactato deshidrogenasa [LDH]), fue hecho un registro electrocardiográfico para evaluación de la modulación autonómica cardíaca (MAC) y se aplicó el cuestionario Profile of Mood States (POMS) para evaluación del estado de humor. Los resultados eran informados a la comisión técnica, que realizaba ajustes en los entrenamientos en función del estado individual de cada atleta. Resultados: La CK aumentó significativamente de El para E2 (131,1 ± 80,9 vs. 212,9 ± 131,7) y quedó inalterada (212,9 ± 185,6) hasta E3, mientras que el LDH fue significativamente reducido de E2 para E3 (590,7 ± 120,2 vs. 457,8 ± 86,6), terminando la intertemporada con valores similares a E1 (512,7 ± 190,6). La única alteración notada fue la sensación subjetiva de fatiga del cuestionario POMS, que se presentó significativamente elevada en E2 (4,82 ± 4,05) y en E3 (5,5 ± 4,8) con relación a E1 (2,06 ± 2,61), pero sin alteración de la perturbación total de humor detectada en este instrumento. Conclusión: Con la modulación de las cargas de entrenamiento en función de resultados de tests fisiológicos, las atletas de la selección brasileña de handball de playa responden de forma fisiológicamente adecuada, aún ante brusco aumento de las cargas de entrenamiento por 18 días consecutivos. Nivel de evidencia III; Estudio diagnóstico - Investigación de un examen para diagnóstico.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Despite pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures, the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) continues to increase. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of cardiovascular risk in the population usually consulting at the Divi-sion of Cardiology of Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, in order to carry out a sampling of reliable epidemiological data. Methods: This is a descriptive, comparative, cross-sectional study of consecutive individuals who spontaneously consulted during the “Cardiovascular Prevention Week” in September 2015. Results: A total of 497 individuals were included in the study. There was high prevalence of CRFs, with poor achievement of blood pressure, blood glucose and total cholesterol goals. Overweight revealed alarming rates. The prevalence of subclinical atheromatosis was proportional to the individual cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: The data collected suggest the need for cardiology areas of primary cardiovascular prevention, with objectives focused on the estimation of cardiovascular risk and patient adherence through education.

RESUMEN Introducción: A pesar de las medidas farmacológicas y no farmacológicas, la prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular (FRCV) continúa en aumento. Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de riesgo cardiovascular de la población que habitualmente concurre a la División de Cardiología del Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, a fin de realizar un muestreo con datos epidemiológicos confiables. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo y comparativo de corte transversal, en individuos consecutivos que concurrieron de manera espontánea durante la “Semana de la Prevención Cardiovascular” en septiembre de 2015. Resultados: En un total de 497 individuos se encontró una elevada prevalencia de FRCV, con pobre alcance de las metas de presión arterial, glucemia y colesterol total. El sobrepeso arrojó valores alarmantes. La prevalencia de ateromatosis subclínica fue proporcional al riesgo cardiovascular del individuo. Conclusiones: Los datos recabados sugieren la necesidad de contar con áreas cardiológicas de prevención cardiovascular primaria, cuyos objetivos se centralicen en la estimación del riesgo cardiovascular y la adherencia del paciente a través de su educación.

Abstract In swine and bovines, leptospirosis prevention and control is carried out via vaccination of susceptible animals using bacterins. However, the efficiency of leptospirosis vaccines has been questioned. This work aimed to investigate the potency of five leptospirosis vaccines sold commercially in Brazil, challenging the animals with one autochthonous strain of Leptospira, Canicola serovar, denoted LO4, isolated from swine. The standard protocol was followed, and renal carriers of Leptospira were identified among the surviving animals by culture and PCR. Of the five vaccines tested, only two proved effective. None of the surviving animals was positive by culture; however, one animal was positive by PCR. Three of the five vaccines sold commercially in Brazil for the immunization of swine or bovines failed the test of the efficacy to protect the vaccinated animals following challenge with an autochthonous Leptospira strain, Canicola serovar. The two vaccines provided protection against the renal carrier state in the surviving animals. The criteria used to produce leptospirosis bacterins sold commercially in Brazil must be reviewed. The industry should support researches on leptospiral vaccinology to improve the quality of the present vaccines and discover new immunogenic strains, because it is known that vaccination is one of the most important tools to increase the reproduction rates in livestock.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se com este trabalho determinar a frequência de animais soropositivos para Leptospira spp., Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em cães do Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil, bem como identificar fatores de risco. Foram amostrados 1.043 soros de cães procedentes de cinco centros urbanos considerados polos regionais: João Pessoa, Campina Grande, Patos, Sousa e Cajazeiras. Para o diagnóstico sorológico da infecção por Leptospira spp. foi utilizada a soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM) enquanto que para detecção de anticorpos anti-T. gondii e N. caninum empregou-se a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Noventa e sete cães apresentaram aglutininas anti-Leptospiraspp., resultando em frequência de 9,3% (IC 95% = 7,5-11,1%). Os sorovares de maior frequência foram Icterohaemorragiae (47,4%), Copenhageni (16,5%), Bratislava (11,3%), Canicola (10,3%) e Pomona (6,2%). Observou-se soropositividade de 22,1% (231/1.043; IC 95% = 19,6-24,7%) e 7,7% (80/1.043; IC 95% = 6,1-9,3%) para T. gondii e N. caninum, respectivamente. Idade >48 meses (OR=2,92), raça não definida (OR=1,94) e criação com acesso à rua (OR=1,57) foram apontados como fatores de risco para infecção por Leptospira spp. Para toxoplasmose, as categorias idade >48 meses (OR=1,74), alimentação com comida caseira (OR=2,24), alimentação com ração e comida caseira (OR=2,34) e contato com gatos (OR=1,57) foram consideradas fatores de risco, enquanto que a criação com acesso à rua (OR=2,62) foi fator de risco para N. caninum. Conclui-se que cães de cinco centros urbanos do Estado da Paraíba estão expostos às infecções por Leptospiraspp., T. gondii e N. caninum, evidenciadas pela detecção de anticorpos, bem como sugere-se melhor manejo alimentar, controle no acesso a ambientes externos e destino adequado das fezes de gatos.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of seropositive animals for Leptospiraspp., Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in dogs from Paraiba state, northeastern Brazil, and to identify risk factors. A total of 1,043 sera were sampled from dogs from five urban centers considered as regional poles: João Pessoa, Campina Grande, Patos, Sousa and Cajazeiras. For the serological diagnosis of Leptospira spp. infection the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was used, and for detecting anti-T. gondii and N. caninum antibodies the indirect fluorescent antiboy test (IFAT) was carried out. Ninety-seven dogs showed anti-Leptospira spp. agglutinins, resulting in a frequency of 9.3% (95% CI=7.5; 11.1%). The most frequente serovars were Icterohaemorragiae (47.4%), Copenhageni (16.5%), Bratislava (11.3%), Canicola (10.3%) and Pomona (6.2%). The seropositivities for T. gondii and N. caninum were 22.1% (231/1043; 95% CI=19.6; 24.7%) and 7.7% (80/1043; 95% CI=6.1; 9.3%) respectively. Age >48 months (OR=2.92), mixed breed (OR=1.94) and access to street (OR=1.57) were identified as risk factors for Leptospira spp. infection. For toxoplasmosis, the categories age >48 months (OR=1.74), homemade food (OR=2.24), comercial and homemade food (OR=2.34) and contact with cats (OR=1.57) were considered risk factors, while access to street (OR=2.62) was risk fator for N. caninum. We conclude that dogs from five urban centers in Paraiba state are exposed to Leptospira spp., T. gondii and N. caninum infections, evidenced by antibody detection, as well as it is suggested a better feed management, control of outside home environment access and proper disposal of cat feces.

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de feno de folha ou pseudocaule de banana em dietas completas sobre a ingestão, a digestibilidade de nutrientes e a produção ruminal de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta em cordeiros. Foram utilizados 30 cordeiros Santa Inês x Dorper, alocados em cinco tratamentos: 400 g kg-1 de feno de Cynodon spp.; 200 g kg-1 de feno de folha de bananeira + 200 g kg-1 de feno de Cynodon spp.; 400 g kg-1 de feno de folha de bananeira; e 200 g kg-1 de feno de pseudocaule de banana + 200 g kg-1 de feno de Cynodon spp. e 400 g kg-1 de feno de pseudocaule de banana. A inclusão de resíduos culturais de banana não teve efeito sobre consumo de matéria seca, matéria orgânica, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), fibra em detergente ácido, carboidratos não fibrosos e carboidratos totais, cujas médias foram de 1.086,8, 1.000,1, 182,7, 374,3, 194,7, 390,2 e 771,6 g por dia, respectivamente. Houve redução na digestibilidade da FDN com a inclusão de 400 g kg-1 de feno de folhas, mas não foram observadas diferenças nos outros tratamentos. A adição de feno de folha e de pseudocaule de banana pode substituir o feno de Cynodon spp. sem alterar a ingestão, a digestibilidade de nutrientes e a concentração ruminal de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of banana leaf or pseudostem hay in complete diets on the intake, nutrient digestibility, and ruminal short-chain fatty acid production by lambs. A total of 30 Santa Inês x Dorper lambs were allocated to five treatments: 400 g kg-1 Cynodon spp. hay; 200 g kg-1 banana leaf hay + 200 g kg-1 Cynodon spp. hay; 400 g kg-1 banana leaf hay; and 200 g kg-1 banana pseudostem hay + 200 g kg-1 Cynodon spp. hay and 400 g kg-1 banana pseudostem hay. The inclusion of banana crop residues had no effect on dry matter intake, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber, non-fiber carbohydrates, and total carbohydrates, which presented averages of 1,086.8, 1,000.1, 182.7, 374.3, 194.7, 390.2, and 771.6 g per day, respectively. There was a reduction in NDF digestibility with the inclusion of 400 g kg-1 leaf hay, but no differences were observed in the other treatments. The addition of both banana leaf and pseudostem hay can replace Cynodon spp. hay without affecting intake, nutrient digestibility, and ruminal concentration of short-chain fatty acids.