Abstract Water stress limits the initial growth and development of maize mass and grain, as well as the physiological process for absorbing the amount of mineral elements. The objective was to evaluate the effect of silicon on germination and growth of corn seedlings submitted to water deficit. The experiment was carried out in the laboratory and the experimental design was completely randomized (factorial 3 × 4), with three concentrations of calcium silicate (0.0; 1.0 and 2.0 mM) and 4 solutions of PEG-6000 to simulate different osmotic potentials (0, 0; -0.3; -0.6; -0.9 MPa). Germination percentage, germination speed index (GSI), mean germination time (MGT), percentage of non-germinated and abnormal germinated, length and dry matter of shoot, root and total seedlings were evaluated. Water deficiency reduced the parameters TG, GSI and MGT. The water deficit reduce the MSPA, MSR and MST with more than 80% reduction in mass from seedlings without deficiency to seedlings with deficiency. For CPA, CR and CT there was a reduction of at least 87%, 70% and 77%, respectively, among seeds without deficiency compared to seeds submitted to deficiency. The use of silicon in corn seeds did not attenuate the stress caused by water deficit simulated by PEG-6000.

Resumo O estresse hídrico limita o crescimento inicial e o desenvolvimento da massa e do grão de milho, assim como no processo fisiológico para a absorção da quantidade de elementos minerais. Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do silício na germinação e no crescimento de plântulas de milho submetidas a deficiência hídrica. O experimento foi desenvolvido em laboratório e o delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado (DIC) (fatorial 3 × 4), sendo três concentrações de Silicato de cálcio (0,0; 1,0 e 2,0 mM) e 4 soluções de PEG-6000 a simular diferentes potenciais osmóticos (0,0; -0,3; -0,6; -0,9 MPa). Foram avaliados a porcentagem de germinação, o índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), o tempo médio de germinação (TMG), a porcentagem de não germinadas e de germinadas anormais, o comprimento e matéria seca da parte aérea, raiz e total das plântulas. A deficiência hídrica diminuiu os parâmetros TG, IVG e TMG. O déficit hídrico reduz a MSPA, MSR e MST com mais de 80% de redução da massa das plântulas sem deficiência para as plântulas com deficiência. Para CPA, CR e CT houve redução de, no mínimo, 87%, 70% e 77%, respectivamente entre as sementes sem deficiência em comparação as sementes submetidas a deficiência. A utilização de silício em sementes de milho não atenuou o estresse causado pela deficiência hídrica simulada por PEG-6000.

ABSTRACT Objective: Cardiovascular diseases represent the main cause of death in chronic kidney disease (CKD). We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and association of the hypertriglyceridemia-waist phenotype (HWP) and visceral adiposity index (VAI) with cardiometabolic risk factors (CR) in patients with CKD on hemodialysis (HD). Materials and methods: The study is based on a cross-sectional design with 265 HD patients in two cities in northeastern Brazil. The VAI was calculated considering the variables body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), triglycerides (TG) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). HWP was defined as the concomitant elevation of WC and TG. The Poisson Regression Model with robust variance estimation was adjusted considering a hierarchical approach for explanatory variables. Prevalence ratios (PR) were also estimated. The level of significance adopted was 5%. Results: In our study HWP and VAI prevalence’s were 29.82% and 58.49%, respectively. In the final model, there was an association between VAI and female gender (PR = 1.46; p < 0.0001) and high body fat (% BF) (PR = 1.33; p < 0.0019). HWP was associated with females (PR = 1.80; p = 0.002), alcohol consumption (PR = 1.58; p = 0.033), obesity (PR = 1.89; p = 0.0001), high %BF (PR = 1.76; p = 0.012) and reduced HDL-c (PR = 1.48; p = 0.035). Conclusion: The HWP stood out as the association with more CR factors, representing a promising method for tracking cardiometabolic risk in HD patients, mainly female.

RESUMO: O aumento na deposição de gordura e da conversão alimentar durante a fase de terminação são fatores que implicam diretamente na qualidade da carne e também na rentabilidade da cadeia produtiva. Apesar disso, o abate tardio dos suínos pode resultar em benefícios para o frigorífico, pela redução dos custos operacionais por suíno abatido e melhor utilização dos equipamentos, bem como vantagens econômicas para o produtor resultantes da diluição dos custos de produção. Portanto, a suplementação de cromo na ração de suínos de linhagens com maior potencial para deposição de músculo, é uma estratégia para aumentar a deposição de tecido magro e minimizar a deposição de gordura, refletindo positivamente no desempenho. Em vista disso, objetivou-se com este trabalho, apresentar e discutir os mecanismos de ação, finalidades e resultados recentes de estudos na literatura sobre a suplementação desse modificador de carcaça na ração de suínos em terminação. O principal papel do cromo é potencializar a ação da insulina, facilitando a ligação entre a insulina e os seus receptores na membrana celular. Com isso, as células sensíveis à insulina captam maior quantidade de glicose, que posteriormente serão convertidas em energia. Essa energia adicional pode ser utilizada para aumentar a síntese proteica, aumentando assim, a quantidade de carne magra e reduzindo o teor de gordura na carcaça, sem alterar o consumo de proteína pelos animais. O cromo também diminui a taxa de oxidação lipídica, mantendo a qualidade da carne por mais tempo. Em conclusão, a suplementação dietética de Cr para suínos em terminação mostra que 0,2 mg/kg de fontes orgânicas de Cr para suínos de ~ 60 kg até o abate podem melhorar o desempenho, ganho de massa magra e reduzir o teor de gordura na carcaça. No entanto, o desenvolvimento da nanotecnologia tem permitido o uso de fonte inorgânica de Cr na dose de 0,2 mg/kg de inclusão, melhorando o desempenho e as características de carcaça de suínos em terminação.

ABSTRACT: Increasing fat deposition and feed conversion ratio over the days in finishing phase directly influence pork quality and productive profitability. Nonetheless, the slaughter of heavier pigs can result in benefits for the slaughterhouse due to dilution of production and processing costs, as well as economic benefits for the pig producer resulting from the dilution of production costs. Therefore, dietary supplementation of chromium for finishing pigs of high lean-genotypes is a strategy to increase lean tissue accretion and minimize fat deposition, reflecting positively on growth performance. This review discussed recent studies results and mechanisms of action of this modifier of performance and carcass a traits in finishing pigs. Chromium increases the insulin action, facilitating insulin binding to the receptors on cell membrane. As a result, insulin-sensitive cells uptake more glucose, which will be later converted into energy. This additional energy is use to increase protein synthesis, thereby increasing the amount of lean tissue and reducing fat content in the carcass, without altering protein intake by pigs. Chromium also reduces lipid oxidation rate maintaining meat quality for longer period. In conclusion, dietary Cr supplementation for finishing pigs have shown that 0.2 mg/kg of organic Cr sources for pigs from ~60 kg until the slaughter can improve growth performance, lean gain and reduce fat content in carcass. However, the development of nanotechnology has allowed the use of inorganic Cr source at 0.2 mg/kg of inclusion, leading to improve the growth performance and carcass traits of finishing pigs.

RESUMO: Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre a coexistência de comportamentos de risco (CR) e o contexto familiar em adolescentes brasileiros. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 101.534 estudantes do 9º ano do ensino fundamental na Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar 2015. A coexistência de CR foi estimada pelo somatório da presença de comportamento sedentário, baixo consumo de frutas e consumo regular de álcool e tabaco. A prevalência foi avaliada usando o diagrama de Venn e a análise multivariada por meio da regressão logística ordinal de chances parciais. Resultados: 8,8% dos adolescentes não apresentaram CR; 34,5% tinham um; 42,7% tinham dois; e 14,1%, três ou quatro. As combinações mais prevalentes foram entre comportamento sedentário e baixo consumo de frutas (33,8%); e comportamento sedentário com baixo consumo de frutas e consumo regular de álcool (9,5%). Tiveram maior chance de coexistência aqueles que tinham mães com maiores escolaridades em todos os modelos, não morar com os pais [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (odds ratio - OR = 1,21; intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 1,07 - 1,37)], ter pais que às vezes, nunca ou raramente entendiam seus problemas e preocupações [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1,62; IC95% 1,49 - 1,76)] e acompanhavam o dever de casa [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1,77; IC95% 1,62 - 1,93)]; e realizar refeições com os pais ou responsáveis < 4 dias/semana para os três modelos. Conclusão: Os CR relacionados à saúde tendem a se agrupar entre os adolescentes brasileiros e estão associados a características do contexto familiar. Esses achados apontam para a necessidade de ações de promoção de saúde com foco na simultaneidade, e não de forma isolada.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To evaluate the association between the co-occurrence of risk behaviors (RB) and the family context in Brazilian adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study on 101,534 students from the 9th grade of elementary school in the National Survey of School Health - PeNSE 2015. The co-occurrence of RB was estimated by the sum of the presence of sedentary behavior, low fruit consumption, regular consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Prevalence was assessed using the Venn diagram and multivariate analysis by the ordinal logistic regression model of partial proportional odds. Results: 8.8% of the adolescents did not have RB; 34.5% had one; 42.7% had two; and 14.1%, three or four. The most prevalent combinations were between sedentary behavior and low fruit consumption (33.8%); sedentary behavior with low fruit consumption and regular consumption of alcohol (9.5%). Those who were more likely to present co-occurrence had mothers with higher education level in all models, did not live with their fathers [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.21; 95%CI 1.07-1.37)], had parents who sometimes, never or rarely understood their problems and concerns [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.62; 95%CI 1.49-1.76)] and monitored their homework [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.77; 95%CI 1.62-1.93)]; and had meals with parents or guardians <4 days/week for the three models. Conclusion: Health RB tend to cluster among Brazilian adolescents and are related to characteristics of the family context. These findings point to the need for health promotion actions focusing on simultaneity and not in isolation.

RESUMO: Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre a coexistência de comportamentos de risco (CR) e o contexto familiar em adolescentes brasileiros. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 101.534 estudantes do 9º ano do ensino fundamental na Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar 2015. A coexistência de CR foi estimada pelo somatório da presença de comportamento sedentário, baixo consumo de frutas e consumo regular de álcool e tabaco. A prevalência foi avaliada usando o diagrama de Venn e a análise multivariada por meio da regressão logística ordinal de chances parciais. Resultados: 8,8% dos adolescentes não apresentaram CR; 34,5% tinham um; 42,7% tinham dois; e 14,1%, três ou quatro. As combinações mais prevalentes foram entre comportamento sedentário e baixo consumo de frutas (33,8%); e comportamento sedentário com baixo consumo de frutas e consumo regular de álcool (9,5%). Tiveram maior chance de coexistência aqueles que tinham mães com maiores escolaridades em todos os modelos, não morar com os pais [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (odds ratio - OR = 1,21; intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 1,07 - 1,37)], ter pais que às vezes, nunca ou raramente entendiam seus problemas e preocupações [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1,62; IC95% 1,49 - 1,76)] e acompanhavam o dever de casa [0, 1 e 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1,77; IC95% 1,62 - 1,93)]; e realizar refeições com os pais ou responsáveis < 4 dias/semana para os três modelos. Conclusão: Os CR relacionados à saúde tendem a se agrupar entre os adolescentes brasileiros e estão associados a características do contexto familiar. Esses achados apontam para a necessidade de ações de promoção de saúde com foco na simultaneidade, e não de forma isolada.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To evaluate the association between the co-occurrence of risk behaviors (RB) and the family context in Brazilian adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study on 101,534 students from the 9th grade of elementary school in the National Survey of School Health - PeNSE 2015. The co-occurrence of RB was estimated by the sum of the presence of sedentary behavior, low fruit consumption, regular consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Prevalence was assessed using the Venn diagram and multivariate analysis by the ordinal logistic regression model of partial proportional odds. Results: 8.8% of the adolescents did not have RB; 34.5% had one; 42.7% had two; and 14.1%, three or four. The most prevalent combinations were between sedentary behavior and low fruit consumption (33.8%); sedentary behavior with low fruit consumption and regular consumption of alcohol (9.5%). Those who were more likely to present co-occurrence had mothers with higher education level in all models, did not live with their fathers [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.21; 95%CI 1.07-1.37)], had parents who sometimes, never or rarely understood their problems and concerns [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.62; 95%CI 1.49-1.76)] and monitored their homework [0, 1 and 2 vs. 3: (OR = 1.77; 95%CI 1.62-1.93)]; and had meals with parents or guardians <4 days/week for the three models. Conclusion: Health RB tend to cluster among Brazilian adolescents and are related to characteristics of the family context. These findings point to the need for health promotion actions focusing on simultaneity and not in isolation.

This paper describes the evaluation of the total concentration of Ba, Bi, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Pb e Zn and the bioaccessible fraction of Ba, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn in samples of grape skins from different cultivars (Vitis Viníferas Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon) by MIP OES. For the determination of total concentration, acid decomposition with a reflux system adapted to the digestion tubes in the oxidizing medium of HNO3 and H2O2 were used. The accuracy of the method was verified by recovery tests, whose values ranged from 80 to 120%, as well as through a comparative method in closed system. Bi, Cd and Cr showed values for total content below the LOD or below the values acceptable for health while Pb is higher than 0.2 mg kg-1, for both cultivars. To evaluate the bioacessible fraction, the gastrointestinal system was simulated using an in vitro procedure, and its performance was assessed considering the bioaccessible fraction (supernatant) and the non-bioaccessible fraction, whose sum should be closed to the total concentration, and the results obtained were between 81 and 120%. Both cultivars showed similar values for the bioaccessible fractions (~13.5 – 53% of the total content).

RESUMO A fluorescência de raios-X portátil (pXRF) pode ser considerada como um dos principais avanços para a caracterização química de diferentes materiais. A umidade das amostras pode afetar o desempenho dessa análise. Assim, foi realizado um ensaio para verificar o efeito da umidade na concentração elementar obtida via pXRF. Como inovação, objetivou-se estabelecer relações (regressão) entre o efeito da umidade nos resultados do pXRF e o número atômico (Z) dos elementos. Três amostras de referência certificadas (CRM) foram utilizadas: OREAS 100a, OREAS 101a e OREAS 101b. As amostras foram saturadas com água destilada (0.68 g g-1) e secas à temperatura ambiente. Durante a secagem, as concentrações dos elementos (C) foram determinadas nas amostras com diferentes teores de água usando um pXRF. Para cada teor de água, a relação Cúmido/Cseco foi determinada e plotada em função da umidade, ajustando-se modelos lineares e exponenciais. O coeficiente de atenuação (σ) também foi calculado. Altos valores de σ significam maior influência da umidade. As porcentagens de recuperação obtidas permitiram uma determinação qualitativa, entretanto, a concentração da maioria dos elementos estudados reduziu significativamente com o aumento da umidade. Não foi possível a modelagem do efeito da umidade, avaliada pelo σ, em função do número atômico. Comparativamente, elementos com elevado número atômico e identificados pela linha Lα foram mais impactados que elementos com números atômicos menores identificados pela linha Kα. Ti, Cr e Fe não foram significativamente influenciados pela umidade e o Sr foi o mais impactado. Os resultados encontrados contribuem para a tomada de decisão antes da caracterização utilizando pXRF, obrigando o uso de amostras secas para aqueles elementos impactados ou o uso de fatores de correção.

ABSTRACT Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) analysis can be considered one of the main recent advances for chemical characterization of earth materials. The water content of the samples can affect the pXRF performance. As a novelty, we aimed to establish relationships (linear regression) between the effect of water content on pXRF results and atomic number (Z) of the elements. Three certified reference materials (CRM) were investigated: OREAS 100a, OREAS 101a, and OREAS 101b. These materials were saturated (0.68 g g-1) with distilled water and left to air-dry naturally. During the drying, the elemental concentrations (C) were determined at different water contents using a pXRF spectrometer. For each water content, the ratio Cwet/Cdry was determined and plotted against the water content. The attenuation coefficient (σ) was also determined. High σ values mean more influence of water content upon measurement element concentration. The obtained recovery rates allowed a qualitative determination. The concentration for the most elements reduced linearly with increasing water content. A predictable behavior of the water content on pXRF results as function of atomic number was not found. Elements identified by Lα spectral line with highest Z were more impacted by water content than elements identified by Kα line with lowest Z. Ti, Cr and Fe was not significantly influenced by water content, and Sr was the most impacted. Our findings contribute to decision-making before characterization earth materials via pXRF, obliging the use of dry samples for determination of impacted elements or by using moisture-corrected data.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the digestibility coefficient (DC) of nutrients and the digestible energy (DE), and metabolizable energy (ME) values of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) produced in Brazil by different methods. Eight barrows with 23.3±4.1 kg were housed in metabolic cages in a randomized block design and fed diets containing 0, 200, 400, and 600 g kg–1 of corn DDGS. We determined the digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), mineral matter (MM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and gross energy (GE) by the total collection (TC) and chromium oxide marker (Cr) methods. Distillers dried grains with solubles provided the respective DM, OM, CP, EE, MM, NDF, and GE values of 910, 863, 286, 66.9, 46.8, 500 g kg–1, and 4,780 kcal kg–1. The DE and ME values of DDGS were 3,739 and 3,401 kcal kg–1 and 3,691 and 3,213 kcal kg–1 as determined by TC and Cr methods, respectively. The growing inclusion of DDGS did not affect the DE or ME values. The digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, EE, MM, and NDF were 767, 765, 827, 691, 883, and 821 g kg–1, respectively, by the total collection method. The Cr underestimated the values of all variables compared with TC method. Levels up to 600 g kg–1 of the test ingredient do not influence the DE and ME of DDGS, but compromises the digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, and NDF.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o teor de Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, Mn, Al e Fe e sua partição geoquímica em sedimentos da bacia hidrográfica do rio dos Sinos, Sul do Brasil. Esta bacia apresenta elevada densidade populacional e de indústrias, especialmente dos setores de metalurgia, galvanoplastia, siderurgia, petroquímica e curtumes. As concentrações totais de metais foram determinadas por fluorescência de raios-X e as concentrações nas fases dos sedimentos foram determinadas através da aplicação do esquema de extração sequencial BCR-701 proposto pelo Community Bureau of Reference, da Comunidade Europeia, utilizando ICP/OES. Também foram considerados os teores extraídos através de uma solução de HCl 0,5 mol/L. Os teores de metais foram avaliados na fração de sedimentos <63 µm. Os resultados na região industrializada e com alta densidade populacional mostraram um aumento nas concentrações totais, para Cu, Cr, Zn e Pb, e nas frações potencialmente móveis para Cu, Cr, Zn e Ni extraídos sequencialmente. O Cr destacou-se especialmente no arroio Portão, apresentando uma concentração total de 1.286 mg/kg, devido à influência de curtumes localizados nesta região.

The present study aimed to evaluate Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, Mn, Al, and Fe contents, as well as their geochemical partitioning in Sinos River basin sediments in southern Brazil. This basin is a densely populated area with a substantial number of industries, especially metallurgy, electroplating works, steel mills, petrochemicals, and tanneries. The total metal concentrations were determined by X-ray fluorescence and the sediment phase concentrations were determined by applying the BCR-701 sequential extraction method proposed by the Community Bureau of Reference of the European Community, using ICP/OES. The contents extracted by a solution of 0.5 mol/L HCl were also considered. Metal contents were evaluated in the sediment fraction <63 µm. Results in the industrialized and densely populated region showed an increase in the total concentrations of Cu, Cr, Zn, and Pb, and in the potentially mobile fractions for Cu, Cr, Zn and Ni sequentially extracted. Cr stood out particularly in the Portão stream, showing 1,286 mg/kg as a result of the total concentration, considering the tannery region influence.

Samples of sewage from a university hospital and a chemistry technical school were analysed for the percentage of bacterial tolerance to chromium (Cr), silver (Ag) and mercury (Hg). Additionally, we investigated the effect of these metals on pigmentation and on some enzymatic activities of the metal tolerant strains isolated, as well as antimicrobial resistance in some metal tolerant Enterobacteriaceae strains. Tolerance to Cr was observed mainly in Gram positive bacteria while in the case of Ag and Hg the tolerant bacteria were predominately Gram negative. Hg was the metal for which the percentage of tolerance was significantly higher, especially in samples from the hospital sewage (4.1%). Mercury also had the most discernible effect on color of the colonies. Considering the effect of metals on the respiratory enzymes, one strain of Ag-tolerantBacillus sp. and one of Hg-tolerant P. aeruginosa were unable to produce oxidase in the presence of Ag and Hg, respectively, while the expression of gelatinase was largely inhibited in various Gram negative strains (66% by Cr). Drug resistance in Hg-tolerant Enterobacteriaceae strains isolated from the university hospital sewage was greater than 80%, with prevalence of multiple resistance, while the Ag-tolerant strains from the same source showed about 34% of resistance, with the predominance of mono-resistance. Our results showed that, despite the ability of metal tolerant strains to survive and grow in the presence of these elements, the interactions with these metals may result in metabolic or phisiological changes in this group of bacteria.

INTRODUÇÃO: O exercício estressante prolongado tem sido associado a uma depressão transitória da função imune, com rotinas de treinamento e competição intensas e prolongadas capazes de levar os atletas a uma deficiência imune. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi observar se o treinamento cr ônico foi capaz de produzir diferenças sustentáveis no sangue periférico (SP) subpopulações de leucócitos (LEU, granulócitos, monócitos, linfócitos totais, linfócitos B e T, e células CD4+ e CD8+T e células natural killers) de atletas de caiaque de elite quando comparados com não atletas. MÉTODOS: A amostra incluiu 13 homens atletas de caiaque de elite, 20 ± 3 anos, 75,0kg ± 7,9 peso e 177,3 ± 7,1 cm estatura. O VO2max foi 58,3 ± 7,8mL.kg.min-1. O grupo de não atletas incluiu sete homens saudáveis, idade 18 ± 1 ano de idade, 81,3 ± 13,8Kg de peso corporal e 171,9 ± 4,5cm de estatura. As amostras de sangue dos atletas foram coletadas no início da temporada de treinamento, após um período fora do treinamento de seis semanas. Populações de células sanguíneas periféricas foram identificadas por análise de citometria de fluxo. Para identificar as diferenças entre os grupos de atletas e não atletas, o teste U de Mann-Whitney foi utilizado. RESULTADOS: N ão foram identificadas diferenças entre os atletas de caiaque treinados e não atletas em repouso, exceto para células natural killers (CD3-CD56+) e os valores da subpopulação CD3-CD56+CD8+ os quais foram mais baixos nos atletas. CONCLUSÃO: Nosso estudo encontrou que, após um período prolongado sem treinamento (seis semanas), somente a população de NK CD3-CD56+ e, em especial, a subpopulação de altamente citotóxica CD3-CD56+CD8+ apresentou níveis mais baixos nos atletas de elite quando comparados com os homens destreinados.

INTRODUCTION: Prolonged strenuous exercise has been associated with a transient depression of immune function, with prolonged intense training schedules and competition able to lead to immune impairment in athletes. OBJETIVE: The objective of this study was to see if chronic training was able to produce sustained differences in the peripheral blood (PB) leukocyte subpopulations (WBC, granulocytes, monocytes, total lymphocytes, B and T lymphocytes, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and Natural Killer cells) of elite kayakers when compared to non-athletes. METHODS: The sample comprised 13 elite male kayakers, 20 ± 3 years old, 75.0 kg ±7.9 weight and 177.3±7.1 cm stature. The VO2max was 58.3±7.8 mL.kg.min-1. The Non-athlete group comprised 7 health males, aged 18±1 years old, 81.3±13.8 kg of weight and 171.9±4.5cm stature. The athlete's blood samples were collected at the beginning of the training season, after an off period of six weeks of training. Peripheral blood cell populations were identified by flow cytometry analysis. To verify the differences between the athlete and non-athlete groups the Mann-Whitney U Test was used. RESULTS: No differences between the trained kayakers and the non-athletes were found at rest except for Natural Killer cells (CD3-CD56+) and the CD3-CD56+CD8+ subset values that were lower in the athletes. CONCLUSION: Our study found that after a prolonged time without training (six weeks) only the NK CD3-CD56+ population and particularly the highly cytotoxic CD3-CD56+CD8+ subpopulation had lower levels in the elite athletes when compared to the untrained men.

The orange-spined hairy dwarf porcupine (Sphiggurus villosus) is a rodent species common in most parts of South America, and little is known about the pathologies that can afflict it. A specimen was delivered at the Wildlife Research and Medical Center (CEMPAS), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil. The animal showed intense apathy, with purulent secretion in the nasal cavity and fracture of the lumbar spine. Due to the unfavorable prognosis, the porcupine was euthanized and microbiological culture of nasal discharge showed Staphylococcus epidermidis. The antimicrobial resistance test revealed sensitivity to all tested antimicrobials (ampicillin, oxacillin, tetracycline, penicillin G, neomycin, cephalexin, gentamicin, enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, cotrimoxazol, cefoxitin and cephalothin). This bacterium is part of the nasal flora of humans and other animals, and may cause infection under certain conditions. In the present study, the infection and colonization by S. epidermidis was the probable cause of the inflammatory process. The sensitivity to all tested antimicrobials suggests that this strain has not been previously exposed to such drugs.

OBJETIVO: Comparar características clínicas e evolução de pacientes com e sem injúria renal aguda adquirida em unidade de terapia intensiva geral de um hospital universitário terciário e identificar fatores de risco associados ao desenvolvimento de injúria renal aguda e à mortalidade. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo observacional com 564 pacientes acompanhados diariamente durante a internação em unidade de terapia intensiva geral do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu por 2 anos consecutivos (de maio de 2008 a maio de 2010), divididos em 2 grupos: com injúria renal aguda adquirida (G1) e sem injúria renal aguda adquirida (G2). RESULTADOS: A incidência de injúria renal aguda foi 25,5%. Os grupos diferiram quanto à etiologia da admissão em unidade de terapia intensiva (sepse: G1:41,6% x G2:24,1%, p<0,0001 e pós operatório neurológico 13,8% x 38,1%, p<0,0001), idade (56,8±15,9 x 49,8± 17,8 anos, p< 0,0001), APACHE II (21,9±6,9 x 14,1±4,6, p<0,0001), ventilação mecânica (89,2 x 69,1%, p<0,0001) e uso de drogas vasoativas (78,3 x 56,1%, p<0,0001). Com relação aos fatores de risco e às comorbidades, os grupos foram diferentes quanto à presença de diabetes mellitus, insuficiência cardíaca congestiva, insuficiência renal crônica e uso de anti-inflamatórios não hormonais (28,2 x 19,7%, p=0,03; 23,6 x 11,6%, p=0,0002, 21,5 x 11,5%, p< 0,0001 e 23,5 x 7,1%, p<0,0001, respectivamente). O tempo de internação e a mortalidade foram superiores nos pacientes que adquiriram injúria renal aguda (6,6 ± 2,7 x 12,9± 5,6 dias p<0,0001 e 62,5 x 16,4%, p<0,0001). À análise multivariada foram identificados como fatores de risco para injúria renal aguda, idade>55 anos, APACHE II>16, creatinina (cr) basal>1,2 e uso de anti-inflamatórios não hormonais (OR=1,36 IC:1,22-1,85, OR=1,2 IC:1,11-1,33, OR=5,2 IC:2,3-11,6 e OR=2,15 IC:1,1-4,2, respectivamente) e a injúria renal aguda esteve independentemente associada ao maior tempo de internação e à mortalidade (OR=1,18 IC:1,05-1,26 e OR=1,24 IC:1,09-1,99 respectivamente). À análise da curva de sobrevida, após 30 dias de internação, a mortalidade foi de 83,3% no G1 e 45,2% no G2 (p<0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: A incidência de injúria renal aguda é elevada em unidade de terapia intensiva, os fatores de riscos independentes para adquirir injúria renal aguda são idade >55 anos, APACHE II>16, Cr basal >1,2 e uso de anti-inflamatórios não hormonais e a injúria renal aguda é fator de risco independente para o maior tempo de permanência em unidade de terapia intensiva e mortalidade.

OBJECTIVE:To compare the clinical features and outcomes of patients with and without acute kidney injury in an intensive care unit of a tertiary university hospital and to identify acute kidney injury and mortality risk factors. METHODS: This was a prospective observational study of a cohort including 564 patients followed during their stay in the intensive care unit of Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu (Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil) between May 2008 and May 2010. Patients were allocated to two different groups: with (G1) and without (G2) acute kidney injury. RESULTS: The incidence of acute kidney injury was 25.5%. The groups were different with respect to the reason for admission to the intensive care unit (sepsis, G1: 41.6% versus G2: 24.1%; P < 0.0001; neurosurgery, postoperative G1: 13.8% versus G2: 38.1%; P < 0.0001); age (G1: 56.8 ± 15.9 vs. G2: 49.8 ± 17.8 years; P < 0.0001); Acute Physiological Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score (G1: 21.9 ± 6.9 versus G2: 14.1 ± 4.6; P < 0.0001); use of mechanical ventilation (G1: 89.2% vs. G2: 69.1%; P < 0.0001) and use of vasoactive drugs (G1: 78.3% vs. G2: 56.1%; P < 0.0001). Higher rates of diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, chronic renal disease and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were more frequent in acute kidney injury patients (28.2% vs. 19.7%, P = 0.03; 23.6 vs. 11.6%, P = 0.0002; 21.5% vs. 11.5%, P < 0.0001 and 23.5% vs. 71.%, P < 0.0001, for G1 versus G2, respectively). Length of hospital stay and mortality were also higher for acute kidney injury patients (G1: 6.6 ± 2.7 days versus G2: 12.9 ±5.6 days, P < 0.0001 and G1: 62.5% versus G2: 16.4%, P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis identified the following as risk factors for acute kidney injury: age above 55 years, APACHE II score above 16, baseline creatinine above 1.2 and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (odds ratio (OR) = 1.36, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.22 - 1.85; OR = 1.2, 95%CI: 1.11 - 1.33; OR = 5.2, 95%CI: 2.3 - 11.6 and OR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.1 - 4.2, respectively). Acute kidney injury was independently associated with longer hospital stay and increased mortality (OR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.05 - 1.26 and OR = 1.24, 95%CI: 1.09 - 1.99, respectively). Analysis of the survival curve 30 days after admission showed 83.3% mortality for acute kidney injury patients and 45.2% for non-acute kidney injury patients (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The incidence of acute kidney injury was high in this intensive care unit; the independent risk factors associated with acute kidney injury were age > 55 years, APACHE II > 16, baseline serum creatinine > 1.2 and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Acute kidney injury is an independent risk factor for longer intensive care unit stay and mortality.

Introdução: A hepatectomia tem sido o tratamento padrão para metástase de origem colorretal (CR). Metástase com invasão da veia cava inferior (VCI) pode requerer ressecção combinada do fígado e VCI. Esta abordagem pode apresentar alto risco cirúrgico. Sangramento profuso e embolia gasosa são complicações intra-operatorias letais. Relato de Caso: Os autores relatam um caso de metástase colorretal única tratada com hepatectomia direita ampliada e ressecção parcial da veia cava com reconstrução primaria. Paciente apresentou boa evolução pós-operatória sem recidiva (um ano de seguimento). Conclusão: Ressecção da VCI e reconstrução combinada com hepatectomia pode ser satisfatoriamente realizada em casos selecionados. A falta de tratamentos alternativos e o prognostico reservado nos casos não operados justificam esta conduta agressiva. No entanto, esta abordagem deve ser realizada por equipe especializada em cirurgia hepática.

Introduction: Hepatectomy has been standard treatment for metastases from colorectal origin (CR). Metastases with inferior vena cava (IVC) involvement may require combined resection of the liver and IVC. This approach may present high surgical risk, Both profuse bleeding and gas embolism are letal intraoperative complications. Case: The authors present a case of single hepatic CR metastasis that was treated by means extended right hepatectomy with partial inferior vena cava resection and primary reconstruction. Patient present good postoperative course without neoplasm recurrence (one year follow-up period). Conclusion: Resection of VCI and combined reconstruction with hepatectomy may be satisfactorily done in selected cases. Lack of alternative treatments associated poor prognosis of untreated cases has justified this aggressive conduct. Therefore, this approach should be realized by hepatic surgery expertise team.

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the infection rate by Brucella spp. in wild and in captive animals. Serum samples from 121 animals (94 free-ranging and 27 captive) of different mammal species were evaluated. Sera were submitted to rose Bengal test (RBT) for screening and serum agglutination tests (SAT) and 2-mercaptoethanol test (2-ME) for confirmatory results. Nine animals (five free-ranging and four captive) tested positive in RBT, but negative in the confirmatory tests. Several domestic animal diseases that have control programs are not focused on wild reservoirs, such as brucellosis in Brazil. The study of new reservoirs in wildlife is essential to prevent emerging diseases.