Abstract The water deficit in particular, reduces the productivity of vegetable crops. To minimize these harmful effects on agriculture, several agronomic and physiological practices are being studied, such as the use of bacteria and water stress attenuators, such as brassinosteroids. Considering the socioeconomic relevance of corn culture and its sensitivity when exposed to water deficit, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the action of brassinosteroids and azospirillum on nitrogen metabolism in corn plants subjected to water stress conditions. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, in a period of 47 days, with corn plants, using the hybrid K9606 VIP3. The design was completely randomized, in a 2x2x3 factorial scheme, with six replications. The first factor corresponds to two water regimes (presence and absence of water deficit). The second corresponds to inoculation via seed of Azospirillum brasiliense and absence of inoculation. And the third corresponds to the application of three concentrations of brassinosteroids (0, 0.3 and 0.6 μM). Were determined Nitrate; nitrate reductase; free ammonium; total soluble aminoacids; soluble proteins; proline; glycine betaine and glutamine synthetase. The lack of water in plants provided a reduction in the protein and nitrate reductase contents, in leaves and roots. For ammonium, plants with water deficit inoculated at a concentration of 0.3 μM, obtained an increase of 7.16 (70.26%) and 13.89 (77.04%) mmol NH4 + .Kg-1. DM (Dry mass) on the leaf and root respectively. The water deficit in the soil provided significant increases in the concentrations of glycine betaine, nitrate, proline and aminoacids, both in the leaves and in the roots of the corn plants. On the other hand, the contents of glutamine synthetase had a reduction in both leaves and roots.

Resumo O déficit hídrico, em particular, reduz a produtividade das hortaliças. Para minimizar esses efeitos nocivos à agricultura, diversas práticas agronômicas e fisiológicas estão sendo estudadas, como o uso de bactérias e atenuadores de estresse hídrico, como os brassinosteróides. Considerando a relevância socioeconômica da cultura do milho e sua sensibilidade quando expostos ao déficit hídrico, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a ação de brassinosteróides e azospirillum sobre o metabolismo de nitrogênio em plantas de milho submetidas a condições de estresse hídrico. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, no período de 47 dias, com plantas de milho, utilizando-se o híbrido K9606 VIP3. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x2x3, com seis repetições. O primeiro fator corresponde a dois regimes hídricos (presença e ausência de déficit hídrico). A segunda corresponde à inoculação via semente de Azospirillum brasiliense e ausência de inoculação. E a terceira corresponde à aplicação de três concentrações de brassinosteróides (0, 0,3 e 0,6 μM). Foram determinados Nitrato; nitrato redutase; amônio livre; aminoácidos solúveis totais; proteínas solúveis; prolina; glicina, betaína e glutamina sintetase. A falta de água nas plantas proporcionou redução nos teores de proteína e nitrato redutase, nas folhas e raízes. Para o amônio, plantas com déficit hídrico, inoculadas na concentração de 0,3 μM, obtiveram aumento de 7,16 (70,26%) e 13,89 (77,04%) mmol NH4 + .Kg-1. MS (Massa seca) na folha e na raiz, respectivamente. O déficit hídrico no solo proporcionou aumentos significativos nos teores de glicina, betaína, nitrato, prolina e aminoácidos, tanto nas folhas quanto nas raízes das plantas de milho. Por outro lado, os teores de glutamina sintetase apresentaram redução tanto nas folhas quanto nas raízes.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as características socioambientais, funções executivas e nutricionais de crianças de 6 a 7 anos, de escolas públicas de Alagoas, Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo envolvendo 64 crianças, na referida faixa etária, de escolas públicas localizadas em Alagoas: Maceió, no litoral; Major Isidoro, no sertão e Palmeira dos Índios, no país. Tais análises foram feitas por meio da aplicação de testes neuropsicológicos e avaliação antropométrica com crianças e inquéritos alimentares e socioambientais com seus pais. Quanto ao tipo de habitação, 100% eram de alvenaria, com banheiro presente em 98,4%. Todas as crianças relataram o hábito de tomar banho no rio / lagoa, apresentavam alguma patologia. Não houve diferença significativa entre os municípios quanto às características sociodemográficas avaliadas, ocorrendo o mesmo resultado com os fatores associados à ocorrência de doenças em crianças. Os subtestes do WISC-IV, ficaram abaixo da média em todos os municípios, e o TAC e SCC foram classificados dentro da média. Porém, mesmo que a classificação tenha sido dividida entre abaixo da média e média, é possível identificar a partir dos subtestes do WISC-IV, que o QI geral apresentou um nível cognitivo abaixo da média. Também não houve diferença significativa na avaliação antropométrica (peso, altura, IMC e AIDPI) entre os alunos avaliados. O peso médio foi de 23,3 kg a 25 kg, a altura entre 1,23 ma 1,24 m, o IMC entre 16,4 a 17; A AIDPI de 2.8 a 3.0. As crianças foram classificadas dentro da média. Em relação aos micronutrientes (Ca, Fe, K, Mg e Na e vitaminas A, C, D, B1, B9 e B12) e calorias, também não houve diferença significativa entre os municípios avaliados. O mesmo ocorreu com os macronutrientes (proteínas, carboidratos e lipídios). Este estudo mostrou que de maneira geral não houve diferença entre os alunos dos três municípios. Provavelmente, mesmo sendo todas escolas públicas e de diferentes cidades, as crianças têm condições sociais semelhantes.

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the socio-environmental characteristics, executive and nutritional functions in children aged 6 to 7 years, from public schools in Alagoas, Brazil. A quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study was performed involving 64 children of the mentioned age group, from public schools located in Alagoas: Maceió, on the coast; Major Isidoro, in the hinterland and Palmeira dos Índios, in the country. Such analyzes were made through the application of neuropsychological tests and anthropometric assessment with children and food and socio-environmental surveys with their parents. As for the type of housing, 100% were made of masonry, with a bathroom present in 98.4%. All children reported with the habit of bathing in the river / lagoon, presented some pathology. There was no significant difference between cities in terms of the sociodemographic characteristics evaluated, with the same result occurring with the factors associated with the occurrence of diseases in children. The subtests of WISC-IV, were below the average in all municipalities, and the TAC and SCC were classified within the average. However, even though the ranking were divided between below average and average, it is possible to identify from the subtests of WISC-IV, that the general IQ showed a cognitive level below the average. There was also no significant difference in the anthropometric assessment (weight, height, BMI and IMCI) between the evaluated students. The average weight was 23.3 kg to 25 kg, the height between 1.23 m to 1.24 m, the BMI between 16.4 to 17; the IMCI from 2.8 to 3.0. Children were classified within the average. Regarding micronutrients (Ca, Fe, K, Mg and Na, and vitamins A, C, D, B1, B9 and B12) and calories, there was also no significant difference between the cities evaluated. The same occurred with macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and lipids). This study showed that in general there was no difference between the students of the three municipalities. Probably, even though they are all public schools and from different cities, children have similar social conditions.

Resumo O bioma Cerrado brasileiro apresenta em uma grande variedade de espécies endêmicas com diversos compostos bioativos, e Anadenanthera peregrina (L.) Speg é uma espécie promissora. Neste estudo, objetivamos realizar a caracterização fitoquímica e avaliar as atividades antioxidantes e antibacterianas contra Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli do extrato hidroetanólico de cascas do caule de A. peregrina. As cascas foram coletadas no Jardim Botânico de Goiânia, Brasil. O extrato hidroetanólico foi obtido por percolação e submetido a triagem físico-química, estimativa de conteúdo fenólico total, impressão digital por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (HPLC) e determinação da atividade antioxidante (valores de IC50 foram calculados para o ensaio 2,2-difenil-1-picril-hidrazil) e antibacteriana. O pH do extrato foi de 5,21 e a densidade foi de 0,956 g/cm3. A triagem fitoquímica indicou a presença de glicosídeos cardíacos, ácidos orgânicos, açúcares redutores, saponinas hemolíticas, fenóis, cumarinas, taninos condensados, flavonóides, catequinas, depsídios e depsidonas derivados de benzoquinonas. O extrato mostrou intensa atividade hemolítica. O conteúdo fenólico total foi de 6,40 g de GAE 100 g-1. A análise por impressão digital por HPLC revelou a presença de ácido gálico, catequina e epicatequina. Confirmamos a atividade antioxidante do extrato. Além disso, o extrato não inibiu o crescimento de colônias de E. coli em nenhum volume testado, mas houve halos em torno das colônias de S. aureus nos três volumes testados. Estes resultados contribuem para uma melhor compreensão da composição química da casca de A. peregrina e apoia ainda mais as aplicações medicinais desta espécie.

Abstract The Brazilian Cerrado biome consists of a great variety of endemic species with several bioactive compounds, and Anadenanthera peregrina (L.) Speg is a promising species. In this study, we aimed to perform phytochemical characterization and evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of the hydroethanolic extract of A. peregrina stem bark. The barks were collected in the Botanical Garden of Goiânia, Brazil. The hydroethanolic extract was obtained by percolation and subjected to physicochemical screening, total phenolic content estimation, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting, and antioxidant (IC50 values were calculated for the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay - DPPH) and antibacterial activity determination. The pH of the extract was 5.21 and density was 0.956 g/cm3. The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of cardiac glycosides, organic acids, reducing sugars, hemolytic saponins, phenols, coumarins, condensed tannins, flavonoids, catechins, depsides, and depsidones derived from benzoquinones. The extract showed intense hemolytic activity. The total phenolic content was 6.40 g GAE 100 g-1. The HPLC fingerprinting analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin. We confirmed the antioxidant activity of the extract. Furthermore, the extract did not inhibit the growth of E. coli colonies at any volume tested, but there were halos around S. aureus colonies at all three volumes tested. These results contribute to a better understanding of the chemical composition of A. peregrina stem bark and further support the medicinal applications of this species.

Resumo Os princípios e as técnicas aplicadas na extração de DNA desempenham um papel crucial na obtenção de material genético purificado. O presente estudo investiga a eficiência de oito protocolos na extração de DNA de Hypostomus commersoni, um importante componente ictiofaunístico de riachos da América do Sul. A qualidade das amostras foi avaliada por espectrofotometria, eletroforese em gel e amplificação por marcadores de PCR-RAPD. A eficiência da extração de DNA foi influenciada tanto pelo método aplicado quanto pelo tecido-alvo de escolha. Maiores concentrações e rendimento de DNA foram obtidos a partir do tecido ocular, com um espectro positivo de incubação em tampão de lise por até 36 horas após a coleta da amostra, utilizando tecidos frescos e na presença de alta concentração de proteinase K (20 mg.ml-1). Nestas condições, as amostras foram amplificadas com sucesso. Até o momento, não há registro de descrição para os parâmetros analisados neste trabalho, nem a descrição de marcadores RAPD para a espécie H. commersoni.

Abstract The principle and the techniques applied in DNA extraction play a pivotal role in the obtention of a purified genetic material. The present study investigates the efficiency of eight protocols in the DNA extraction of Hypostomus commersoni, an essential component of South American freshwater ichthyofauna. The quality of samples was assessed through spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, and PCR-RAPD markers amplification. The efficiency of DNA extraction was influenced both by the method applied and the target-tissue of choice. Higher concentrations and yield of DNA were obtained from ocular tissue, with a positive spectrum of incubation in lysis buffer for up to 36 hours after sample collection, using fresh tissues and in the presence of a high concentration of Proteinase K (20 mg.ml-1). In these conditions, samples were successfully amplified. To date, there is no record of description for the parameters analyzed in this work, neither the description of RAPD markers for the species H. commersoni.

Industry 4.0 has been discussed in the scientific community since its inception in 2011. Discussions have focused on characterising what Industry 4.0 is. This industry will increasingly require professionals to perform complex and indirect tasks, such as working together with machines in their daily work. This article aims to analyse the skills and competencies required by Industry 4.0, and to compare them with the scope of production engineering disciplines in six Brazilian universities. As a methodological option, the study is classified as exploratory, bibliographic, and qualitative. It is established that the current syllabus of production engineering courses of Brazilian universities needs to be improved, seeking alignment with the skills and competencies required by Industry 4.0. Although the Industry 4.0 theme is being discussed in the scientific field in Brazilian universities, it is not yet possible to identify any key actions taken to adjust and improve production engineering courses.

Industrie 4.0 word al sedert die ontstaan daarvan in 2011 deur die wetenskaplike gemeenskap bespreek. Besprekings fokus op die karakterisering van wat presies Industrie 4.0 behels. Die industrie sal toenemend professionele persone benodig om ingewikkelde en indirekte take te voltooi, soos om daagliks saam met masjiene te werk. Die doel is om die vaardighede en bekwaamhede wat deur Industrie 4.0 benodig word te ontleed en om hulle te vergelyk binne die omvang van ses Brasiliaanse universiteite. Die ondersoek is geklassifiseer as verkennend, bibliografies en kwalitatief. Daar is vasgetel dat die bestaande sillabus van bedryfsingenieurswese van die ses universiteite verbeter moet word sodat daar beter belyning is met die benodigde vaardighede en bekwaamhede van Industrie 4.0. Alhoewel die Industrie 4.0-tema deur akademici by Brasiliaanse universiteite bespreek word, is dit nog nie moontlik om enige sleutel stappe om die bestaande bedryfsingenieurswese kursusse aan te pas te identifiseer nie.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected infectious disease caused by different species of the Leishmania parasite and is one of the major public health problems in developing countries. Despite the progress in fundamental knowledge about the Leishmania parasite, current therapy against leishmaniasis is still unsatisfactory due to limited efficacy, prolonged treatment, high cost and undesirable adverse effects. Thus, the research for new prototypes compounds of antileishmaniasis drugs remains a matter of current importance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the leishmanicidal activity of cytochalasin B, a natural compound isolated by our group in a previous study, against L. amazonensis, using experimental tests and computational simulation methodologies. The results of the biological evaluation showed that cytochalasin B has antileishmanial activity against the promastigote form of Leishmania amazonensis. These results are corroborated by the docking and molecular dynamics that showed that the activity occurs due to the inactivation of the trypanothione reductase enzyme (TryR).

Resumo A fauna do Pampa brasileiro está sendo ameaçada pela grande perda de habitat que vem sofrendo, em especial, devido à expansão do cultivo da soja e da conversão de áreas de pastagens em extensas áreas de silvicultura. É essencial estudar como a fauna de mamíferos lida com a paisagem altamente fragmenta e não protegida, pela influencia humana. Nosso estudo apresenta os resultados de um levantamento dos mamíferos de médio e grande porte em uma área típica do bioma Pampa com influência humana. O levantamento foi realizado exclusivamente com o uso de armadilhas fotográficas ao longo de um período de 16 meses. Foram avaliadas as frequências relativas das espécies na área. Foram registradas 18 espécies, algumas delas ameaçadas localmente (Tamandua tetradactyla, Alouatta caraya, Leopardus colocolo, Leopardus geoffroyi, Leopardus wiedii, Puma yagouaroundi, Mazama gouazoubira e Cuniculus paca). Várias espécies foram encontradas de forma abundante, no entanto, muitas espécies foram consideradas raras, sendo que novas espécies poderiam ser registradas se continuássemos a amostragem. Nossos resultados contribuem para o conhecimento da diversidade de mamíferos do bioma Pampa e habitats associados, alertam sobre ameaças e fornecem suporte para medidas de conservação.

Abstract The wildlife of the Brazilian Pampa is threatened by large-scale habitat loss, due in particular to the expansion of soybean cultivation and the conversion of grasslands areas into extensive areas of silviculture. It is essential to study how the mammal fauna copes with the highly fragmented, human-influenced, non-protected landscape. Our study presents the results of a survey of the large- and medium-sized mammals of a typical human-influenced steppic savanna area of the Pampa biome. The survey was conducted exclusively with the use of camera traps over a period of 16 months. The relative frequencies of species in the area were evaluated. We recorded 18 species, some of them locally threatened (Tamandua tetradactyla, Alouatta caraya, Leopardus colocolo, Leopardus geoffroyi, Leopardus wiedii, Puma yagouaroundi, Mazama gouazoubira and Cuniculus paca). Several species were found to thrive in the area; however, many species were considered rare, and undoubtedly new species could be recorded if we continued the sampling. Our results contribute to the knowledge of faunal diversity in the Pampa biome and associated habitats, warn about threats and provide support for conservation measures.

Abstract Four bisabolanes 1–4, including perezone (1) and triacetyl perezone (2), were isolated through a bioassay-guided fractionation of the extract obtained from the Caribbean gorgonian coral Pseudopterogorgia rigida collected during an expedition cruise to the Bahamas. All isolated compounds showed to be cytotoxic toward panel of four human tumor cell lines, as quantified by the MTT assay after 72 h incubation. Perezone (1), the most active one, was further analyzed, showing to be cytotoxic, but not selective, in a 12-cell line panel comprising tumor and non-tumor, as well as human and murine cells. Additionally, 1 was assayed for cytotoxicity against HL-60 leukemic cells. Pre-treatment with an acute free radical scavenger (L-NAC) before exposure of cells to perezone virtually eliminated the generation of intracellular ROS and lessened its severe cytotoxicity. The protective effect delivered by L-NAC evidences that the mechanism of perezone-induced cytotoxicity is partially associated to production of ROS and a consequent induction of oxidative stress.

Juntas soldadas por atrito com pino foram obtidas para o aço inoxidável duplex UNS S32205. Os lados de avanço e retrocesso da junta soldada evidenciaram diferentes características microestruturais, o lado de avanço apresentou um maior grau de refinamento de grãos, principal mecanismo de aumento de dureza. A caracterização microestrutural foi realizada através de microscopia ótica, eletrônica de varredura e de transmissão. A zona termomecanicamente afetada apresentou ilhas de austenita deformadas em matriz ferrítica. A zona misturada apresentou uma microestrutura fina completamente recristalizada, permitindo um impressionante aumento de dureza, na junta soldada associado a uma melhoria na resistência à corrosão. Avaliações por microscopia eletrônica de transmissão e ensaios de corrosão corroboraram para a ausência de fases secundárias deletérias na junta soldada.

UNS S32205 duplex stainless steel welds were performed by friction stir welding (FSW). Advancing and retreating sides showed distinct characteristics in the welded joint. The advancing side shows the strongest grain refinement which is corroborated by microhardness measurements. The microstructure characterization was carried out by optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The thermomechanically affected zone displays austenite islands deformed in a ferrite matrix. The stir zone (SZ) showed a fine recrystallized microstructure providing an outstanding increase of hardness associated with better corrosion performance. Transmission electron microscopy and corrosion tests have corroborated the absence of intermetallic phases on welded joints.

Introdução: A hepatite auto-imune ocorre com maior frequência na mulher jovem sendo, no entanto, cada vez mais frequentemente diagnosticada em idades avançadas. Tal facto deve-se ao aumento da esperança média de vida, bem como a uma maior sensibilização para o seu diagnóstico. Caso clínico: Mulher de 81 anos, admitida por icterícia. Laboratorialmente, apresentava padrão de “hepatite aguda”. A investigação revelou tratar-se de hepatite auto-imune, já com evidência de cirrose hepática. Iniciou terapêutica imunosupressora com prednisolona e azatioprina, verificando-se uma rápida resposta. Discussão: São revistos os diagnósticos diferenciais de hepatite aguda no idoso. Discutem-se as particularidades da hepatite autoimune neste grupo etário. Conclusão: O diagnóstico de hepatite autoimune deve ser considerado em qualquer idade, já que a instituição de terapêutica adequada reduz a mortalidade associada a esta entidade.

Introduction: Autoimmune hepatitis occurs more frequently in young women; however, it is increasingly diagnosed in advanced age. This is due to the increase in average life expectancy and a greater awareness of this diagnosis. Case Report: A 81 year-old woman was admitted with jaundice. Laboratory studies showed a pattern of “acute hepatitis.” Further investigations revealed auto-immune hepatitis, with evidence of liver cirrhosis. She started immunosuppressive therapy with prednisone and azathioprine, with a rapid response. Discussion: The differential diagnosis of acute hepatitis in the elderly is discussed, and some specific features of autoimmune hepatitis in this age group. Conclusion: The diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis should be considered at any age, since appropriate therapy significantly reduces mortality associated with this entity.

Leptopspirosis is a syndrome with different clinical manifestations including the most severe and often fatal forms of pulmonary disease of unknown etiology. Pulmonary injury during the inflammatory process has been associated with the excessive number of alveolar macrophages (AMs) and polymorphonuclear leukocytes stimulated in the lungs and with the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen intermediates and other inflammatory mediators. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the cellular immune response of AMs or inflammatory cells of hamsters during leptospirosis. The activity of AMs was determined by measuring nitric oxide (NO) and protein production as well as inflammatory cell infiltration in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Pulmonary activity during infection was monitored by measuring pH, pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in blood samples. Cellular immune response and its role in the genesis of leptospirosis have been incriminated as the main causes of tissue and pulmonary injuries, which consequently lead to the pulmonary dysfunction in severe cases of leptospirosis. The present results show a low production of NO in both supernatant of alveolar macrophage culture and BAL. In the latter, protein production was high and constant, especially during acute infection. Total and differential cell count values were 2.5X10(6) on day 4; 7.3X10(6) on day 21; and 2.3X10(6) on day 28 after infection, with lymphocytes (84.04%) predominating over neutrophils (11.88%) and monocytes (4.07%). Arterial blood gas analysis showed pulmonary compromising along with the infectious process, as observed in parameter values (mean±SD) evidenced in the infected versus control group: PaO2 (60.47mmHg±8.7 vs. 90.09mmHg±9.18), PaCO2 (57.01mmHg±7.87 vs. 47.39mmHg±4.5) and pH (7.39±0.03 vs. 6.8±1.3). Results indicated that Leptospira infection in hamsters is a good experimental model to study leptospirosis. However, some of the immune parameters showed variations which might be associated with the animal species.

A biopsia hepática é o melhor método para avaliar a fibrose, mas é invasivo e não isento de complicações. Objectivos: Verificar o interesse da elastografia hepática transitória na monitorização da gravidade histológica em doentes com hepatite C crónica. Métodos: Foram estudados 214 doentes com hepatite C crónica, 134 homens e 70 mulheres, idade média 47,4 ± 11,6 anos e 26 indivíduos considerados saudáveis, com provas hepáticas normais, serviram de controlos. Nas biopsias hepáticas foi utilizado o Índice de Actividade Histológico (IAH) de Knodell / Peter Scheuer: 154 com estádio F0/F2; 50 com F3/F4. O valor normal da elastografia hepática transitória (Fibroscan®, Echosens, Paris, França) foi de 4,5 kPa (3,30 - 5,69). Resultados: A elastografia hepática diferenciou os diversos estádios de fibrose: F0/1 - 4,92 kPa (4,21-6,17) vs F2/3/4 - 6,81 kPa (5,14-15,95), p =0,006; F0,1,2 - 5.90 kPa (4,85 - 7,25) vs F3/F4 - 12,55 kPa (9,10-16,24), p =0,001; na cirrose hepática (F4) - 13.75 kPa (11,44-27,05), p =0,001.Utilizando as curvas de ROC foram optimizados os pontos de corte para diferenciar os estádios de fibrose em 60 doentes com biopsia hepática concomitante e com mais de 10 espaços porta estudados: F≥2 - 5,43 (AUC- 0,79; Se- 0,78; esp- 0,67; VPP- 0,98; VPN- 0,25); F≥3 - 8,18 (AUC- 0,96; se- 0,95; esp- 0,93; VPP- 0,87; VPN- 0,97); F4- 10,08 (AUC- 0,98; se- 0,93; esp- 0,93; VPP- 0,82; VPN- 0,98). Verificou-se uma correlação significativa entre a elastografia hepática e o IAH (P <0,003), assim como com a fibrose (p <0,0005), mas não com a actividade inflamatória (p =0,28). Por análise multivariada confirmou-se uma relação entre a elastografia hepática e a idade do doente (p =0,009) e o valor do ferro sérico (p =0,035). Conclusões: A elastografia hepática revelou-se eficaz na detecção de fibrose hepática significativa e para o diagnóstico de cirrose. Verificou-se uma relação entre este meio de diagnóstico a idade do doente e o ferro sérico, parâmetros associados à progressão da doença. Como método não invasivo fácil de executar, rápido e reprodutível é útil para o seguimento dos doentes com hepatite C crónica com o objectivo de avaliar a gravidade da fibrose hepática.

Liver biopsy is the current "gold standard" for evaluating liver fibrosis but it is an invasive procedure, unsuitable for monitoring disease progression. Aims: To evaluate the interest of hepatic elastography for assessment and monitoring of liver fibrosis in chronic HCV patients. Methods: 214 chronic hepatitis C patients, 134 male and 70 female, mean age 47.4 ± 11.6 years and 26 healthy individuals with normal liver function tests served as controls, were included in the study. Histological activity index (HAI) was graded according Knodell / Peter Scheuer: 154 patients F0/2; 50 patients F3/4. Liver stiffness was measured using Fibroscan® (Echosens, Paris, France). The median in 25 controls was 4.5 kPa (3.30 - 5.69) and was correlated with clinical and laboratorial data. Results: A significant correlation was found between liver stiffness and HAI (p< 0.003). Median liver stiffness was 12.55 kPa (9.10 - 16.24), and corresponded to the different stages: F0.1 - 4.92 kPa (4.21-6.17) vs F2.3.4 - 6.81 kPa (5.14- 15.95), P =0.006; F0.1.2 - 5.90 kPa (4.85 - 7.25) vs F3/F4 - 12.55 kPa (9.10-16.24), P =0.001. The median liver stiffness for detection of cirrhosis was 13.75 KPa (11.44-27.05), p=0.001. Optimal stiffness cut-off values for fibrosis stage assessment were determined by ROC curve analysis in 60 patients with concomitant liver biopsy specimens that contain more then 10 portal tracts. Optimized cut-off values: F≥ 2 - 5.43 (AUC- 0.79; Se- 0.78; sp- 0.67; PPV- 0.98; PNV-0.25); F≥3 - 8.18 (AUC- 0.96; se- 0.95; sp- 0.93; PPV- 0.87; PNV- 0.97); F4- 10.08 (AUC- 0.98; se- 0.93; sp- 0.93; PPV-0.82; PNV- 0.98). A significant correlation with liver stiffness was seen with age of the patient (p= 0.009) and serum iron levels (p =0.035) by multivariate analysis. Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that Fibroscan® is able to differenciate between the different stages of fibrosis and correlates with other parameters of progressive liver fibrosis (age and iron). Being a non-invasive method, easy and quick to perform and providing reproducible results Fibroscan® may become a useful and reliable method for the follow-up of HCV patients.

Introdução: A elastografia hepática transitória (Fibro-Scan®), é um sistema de ultrasons não invasivo que avalia a fibrose hepática. Objectivo: Avaliar a utilidade do FibroScan® no diagnóstico de cirrose. Métodos: A elastografia (Kilopascals, kPa) realizou-se em 120 doentes: 61 com cirrose de diversas etiologias (31 com cirrose VHC) e 59 sem cirrose (55 com hepatite C crónica) e em 25 controlos. Resultados: A mediana na cirrose foi 16,9 kPa (4,5 - 70,5), naqueles sem cirrose 5,8 kPa (3,8 - 19,6), p < 0,05. Os valores mais altos foram encontrados naqueles com mais de um factor etiológico (VHB, VHC, etanol, VIH), 57 kPa (7,7 - 75) comparativamente com aqueles com apenas um factor, 14 kPa (4,5 - 46,4), p < 0,001. A mediana na cirrose VHC foi 17,1 kPa (6,0 - 40,3), na VHB 13,1 kPa (7,4 - 19,8) e na alcoólica 13,4 kPa (6,8 - 35,8), P = NS. Para um cut-off de 12 kPa a sensibilidade foi 64%, especificidade 98%, o valor predizente positivo 98% (VPP) e o valor predizente negativo 73%, AUROC 0,93. Conclusões: O FibroScan® é um exame não invasivo com utilidade diagnóstica na cirrose. Para valores superiores a 12 kPa o FibroScan® tem um VPP e uma especificidade muito elevados.

Introduction: FibroScan®, is a non-invasive ultrasound device used to quantify liver fibrosis. Aims:Assess clinical usefulness of the FibroScan® in the diagnosis of cirrhosis. Methods: The FibroScan® was performed (kilopascals, kPa) on 120 patients, all with a liver biopsy: 61 with liver cirrhosis of diverse etiologies (31 hepatitis C) and 59 without cirrhosis (55 with chronic hepatitis C). Results: The median in cirrhosis was 16.9 kPa (4.5 - 70.5), and in those without cirrhosis 5.8 kPa (3.8 - 19.6), p < 0,05. The highest values in patients with cirrhosis were found in those with combined causes for liver disease such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcohol, HIV: 57 kPa (7.7 - 75) compared to those with one only factor, 14 kPa (4.5 - 46.4), p <0.001. The median was not different between the different causes of liver cirrhosis. For a cut-off level of 12 kPa and considering all causes of cirrhosis, the sensitivity was 64%, specificity 98%, positive predictive value (PPV) 98% and negative predictive value (NPV) 73%, AUROC 0.93. Conclusions: FibroScan® is a clinically useful non-invasive tool in the assessment of liver cirrhosis. For a cut-off level of 12 kPa the PPV and the specificity were very high.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the kinetics of humoral and cellular responses during leptospirosis. We observed that the presence of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) was associated with antibody production and bacterial recovery, and the compromising of both TNF-alpha and IL-6 in the immunopathogenesis of leptospirosis during an experimental infection of BALB/c mice inoculated with Leptospira interrogans serovar Canicola was verified. Results showed higher levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 in the initial phase of infection, in which the greatest bacterial clearance was observed. However, when the bacterial recovery was compared with the kinetics of the production of antibodies, the results revealed a kinetics proportionally inverted to antibody production. This fact may be related to some inhibitory factor which could be responsible for the selective suppression of the cellular immune response. We concluded that during leptospirosis there was a greater mobilization of the cellular immune response activity, mainly in the initial phase of the infectious process, for posterior involvement of the humoral response, and that both TNF-alpha and IL-6 could be associated with the immunopathogenesis of the disease.

O cultivo de coqueiro vem crescendo no Nordeste, com aumento de produtividade, quando irrigado. Sendo comuns na região águas salinas e se considerando a carência de dados de pesquisa de salinidade em coqueiro anão-verde (Cocos nucifera L.), objetivou-se, através deste trabalho, avaliar os efeitos da irrigação com águas salinas (CEa = 2,2, 5, 10, 15 e 20 dS m-1) sobre a germinação e o crescimento inicial de plântulas, até 120 dias após semeadura (fase I), estendendo-se a avaliação, posteriormente, após repicagem para o viveiro, quando passaram a ser irrigadas com água de CEa = 2,2 dS m-1, durante 120 dias (fase II), estudando-se o efeito residual dos níveis de salinidade aplicados na fase I. Em ambos os experimentos, o delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. As águas salinas foram preparadas com adição de NaCl comercial. Na primeira fase, o incremento da CEa não influenciou significativamente a germinação que variou de 80 a 97,5%, porém afetou a velocidade de germinação e o crescimento das plântulas; na fase de sementeira, a salinidade afetou a fitomassa total a partir de 5,4 dS m-1; o sistema radicular foi a variável mais afetada pela salinidade. Na fase II, as plantas oriundas de germinação sob condições de alta salinidade, após passarem a ser irrigadas com água de 2,2 dS m-1, cresceram no mesmo ritmo daquelas germinadas sem estresse salino.

The coconut cultivation is growing in the Northeast Brazil with increase in productivity under irrigated conditions. Saline waters are commonly found in this region and considering the lack of data related to salinity on dwarf-green coconut (Cocos nucifera L.), this work had the objective of evaluating the effects of the irrigation with saline waters (ECw = 2.2, 5, 10, 15 and 20 dS m-1) on the germination and the initial growth of seedlings until 120 days after sowing (phase I), extending the evaluation, later, after transplanting in the nursery, when seedlings were irrigated with water of ECw = 2.2 dS m-1, for another 120 days (phase II), studying the residual effect of the applied salinity levels in the phase I. In both the experiments a completely randomized design was used with four replications. The saline waters were prepared with the addition of commercial NaCl. In the first phase, the increment of ECw did not influence the germination significantly, which varied from 80 to 97.5%, however, it affected the germination speed and the growth of the seedlings; in the germination phase the salinity affected the total phytomass starting from 5.4 dS m-1; the root system was the most affected variable by the water salinity. In the phase II, the plants germinated under conditions of high salinity when irrigated with water of 2.2 dS m-1 maintained the rhythm of growth similar to those germinated without saline stress.