Characterization of bergamot essential oil: chemical, microbiological and colloidal aspects

Citrus bergamia is a citric species known as bergamot. The species is widely used due to its derivatives, such as juices, extracts, and essential oil. Specifically, the bergamot essential oil (BEO) is of great interest, with a chemical composition rich in terpenes and esters. Considering its chemical composition, bioactivity, and great economic potential, the characterization of BEO should be studied. However, this essential oil is almost unexplored in terms of a characterization associated with colloids. Chemical characterization was carried out by gas-chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer and by gas-chromatography coupled to a flame ionization detector. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was carried out to confirm the bioactivity of this important essential oil. Dynamic light scattering analysis was performed to create a pattern of droplet size distribution of BEO. Major compounds of BEO were linalyl acetate, limonene, and linalool. The BEO was active against E. coli and presented a MIC value of 2.000 µg/mL, while values of MIC and MBC higher than 2.000 µg/mL were observed for S. aureus. The dynamic light scattering analysis revealed a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 65.7 ± 2.2 nm. After a 1:10 dilution it was observed reduction of mean diameter and enhancement of the percentagem of low size droplets, resepctively 44.1 ± 1.2 nm and 14.5 ± 0.5 nm (28.8 ± 1.2%). Higher droplets and reduced polydispersity index were observed after 1:100 dilution. In the present study, the chemical characterization was in accordance with the species, as the characteristic chemical markers of the species were found. Moreover, it has presented antibacterial activity as expected for the BEO. The analysis of the colloid showed a pattern of droplet size distribution following the Ostwald ripening mechanism after dilution.

An expanded concept of Ceratocystis manginecans and five new species in the Latin American clade of Ceratocystis

The genus Ceratocystis contains a number of emerging plant pathogens, mostly members of the Latin American Clade (LAC), in which there are several unresolved taxonomic controversies. Among the most important are Brazilian pathogens in the C. fimbriata complex, C. manginecans and C. eucalypticola. Representatives of C. manginecans and C. eucalypticola from India and China, respectively, were shown to be fully interfertile in laboratory matings, and hybrids between the putative species were identified on Punica in India. An Indian tester strain was sexually compatible with representatives of what has been considered C. fimbriata on numerous hosts across Brazil. In this revision of the LAC, the name C. fimbriata is restricted to the widely dispersed Ipomoea strain, and C. manginecans is recognized as a Brazilian species that is important on Mangifera, Eucalyptus, and many other crops. C. mangivora and C. mangicola are also considered synonyms of C. manginecans. Based on phylogenetics and mating studies, two other Brazilian species are recognized: C. atlantica, sp. nov., and C. alfenasii, sp. nov., each with wide host ranges. Three new Caribbean species are recognized based on phylogenetics and earlier inoculation studies: C. costaricensis, sp. nov., on Coffea, C. cubensis, sp. nov., on Spathodea, and C. xanthosomatis, sp. nov., on the vegetatively propagated aroids Xanthosoma and Syngonium. Some of the other Ceratocystis species were based primarily on unique internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA sequences, but the unreliability of rDNA sequences was demonstrated when intraspecific crossing of isolates with differing ITS sequences generated single-ascospore progeny with intragenomic variation in ITS sequences and others with new ITS sequences. Species recognition in Ceratocystis should use phenotype, including intersterility tests, to help identify which lineages are species. Although some species remain under-studied, we recognize 16 species in the LAC, all believed to be native to Latin America, the Caribbean region, or eastern USA.

Genome-wide analysis in 756,646 individuals provides first genetic evidence that ACE2 expression influences COVID-19 risk and yields genetic risk scores predictive of severe disease

SARS-CoV-2 enters host cells by binding angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Through a genome-wide association study, we show that a rare variant (MAF = 0.3%, odds ratio 0.60, P=4.5×10^-13) that down-regulates ACE2 expression reduces risk of COVID-19 disease, providing human genetics support for the hypothesis that ACE2 levels influence COVID-19 risk. Further, we show that common genetic variants define a risk score that predicts severe disease among COVID-19 cases.

A catalog of associations between rare coding variants and COVID-19 outcomes

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), a respiratory illness that can result in hospitalization or death. We investigated associations between rare genetic variants and seven COVID-19 outcomes in 543,213 individuals, including 8,248 with COVID-19. After accounting for multiple testing, we did not identify any clear associations with rare variants either exome-wide or when specifically focusing on (i) 14 interferon pathway genes in which rare deleterious variants have been reported in severe COVID-19 patients; (ii) 167 genes located in COVID-19 GWAS risk loci; or (iii) 32 additional genes of immunologic relevance and/or therapeutic potential. Our analyses indicate there are no significant associations with rare protein-coding variants with detectable effect sizes at our current sample sizes. Analyses will be updated as additional data become available, with results publicly browsable at https://rgc-covid19.regeneron.com.

Grazing intensity as a management strategy in tropical grasses for beef cattle production: a meta-analysis

Correct pasture management associated with the adjustment of grazing intensity determines pasture persistence and the level of production per animal and per land area. The objective of this review was to examine the effect of grazing intensity in tropical pastures on the performance and productivity of beef cattle by a meta-analytical approach. The review followed a protocol developed and tested based on the PICOS strategy to formulate the guiding question: population (beef cattle), intervention (high grazing intensities), comparison (low grazing intensities), outcome (animal performance and productivity), and study design (experimental). Data were collected from papers published in the electronic databases of SCOPUS (Elsevier), Web of Science (Main collection), SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, and Science Direct (Elsevier) by a single cross-reference search. The selected studies were considered relevant when they: (1) were primary research published in the format of a research article; (2) included grazing intensities as a management strategy; and (3) evaluated average daily gain (ADG, kg/animal per day), stocking rates (SR, animal unit (AU)/ha; AU = 450 kg), and weight gain per area (WGH, kg/ha). Thirteen manuscripts were selected due to their methodological strength for data extraction. The means under continuous stocking were 0.67 kg/animal per day for ADG, 518.12 kg/ha for WGH, and 4.19 AU/ha for SR. Under intermittent stocking, the means were 0.62 kg/animal per day for ADG, 980.18 kg/ha for WGH, and 5.10 AU/ha for SR. In tropical forages, the heights of 20 to 40 cm for pastures under continuous stocking and the defoliation intensities of 40 to 50% for those under intermittent stocking result in greater individual performance and animal productivity per land area.

Electives in the medical curriculum - an opportunity to achieve students' satisfaction?

BACKGROUND

Electives are perceived by medical students as a valuable, highly regarded experience, allowing them to customize learning experiences and enabling them to early differentiate during medical training. The present work aims to uncover students' major determinants of satisfaction and how they interfere with their future elective choices in order to identify the best approach to implement electives in medical curricula.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted through a written evaluation survey concerning the electives available in the academic year 2015-2016. Our institution provides 106 electives to students from the 2^nd to the 5^th year. Students' satisfaction was assessed through a validated questionnaire with eight sentences expressing opinions related to electives global satisfaction. Data from 538 inquiries from 229 students were analyzed quantitatively using regression and correlation models, and qualitatively through phenomenography.

RESULTS

Quantitative analysis of the questionnaires allowed to establish both: 1) The determinants of students' satisfaction with electives, which were Agreement with teaching and learning methodologies, followed by Agreement with assessment methodologies employed, Perception of the workload demanded and Requirement for continuous work and 2) The predictors of students preferences in the following years, namely, Agreement with assessment methodologies employed, Classes attendance and Ranking of the allocated elective established in the previous year. Qualitative analysis of questionnaires revealed that students consider electives as being innovative and interesting, claiming that some, for their relevant content, could be integrated into the medical core curriculum.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work raises awareness on the best practices when it comes to electives' organization to meet students' satisfaction. We can conclude that medical schools should measure students satisfaction as a tool to organize and predict future needs of electives and placements when designing and implementing this alternative student-centred curriculum or even to improve the existing practices regarding electives in medical courses.

African histoplasmosis in a Guinea Bissau patient with HIV-2: Case report and review

African histoplasmosis is the relatively unknown infection by Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii. It is endemic to Central and West Africa, generally involving the skin with potential for systemic dissemination, and has been described mainly in immunocompetent hosts. We present the case of a 30-year-old Bissau-Guinean man with HIV-2 infection known for 16 years, irregularly treated, admitted with two weeks of fever, diarrhoea and cutaneous lesions. Examination revealed multiple subcutaneous nodes, Molluscum contagiosum-like lesions, generalized lymphadenopathy and painful palpation of the left iliac fossa. Laboratory tests showed severe nonhaemolytic anaemia and CD4+ count of 9/mm3, with normal creatinine and hepatic enzymes. Chest roentgenogram was unremarkable and a research for Mycobacterium tuberculosis by GeneXpert® was negative. Nonetheless, given the lack of further diagnostic tools, a presumptive diagnosis of disseminated tuberculosis was made, and the patient was started on tuberculostatic and antiretroviral drugs. Despite initial improvement, a national shortage of antiretrovirals precluded further treatment, with worsening of the clinical picture, namely an increase in the number and dimensions of the skin lesions. An excisional biopsy of a subcutaneous nodule revealed Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii. Unfortunately, due to the unavailability of antifungals, the patient died one week later. To our best knowledge, this is the first confirmed case of an HIV infected patient with African histoplasmosis in Guinea-Bissau.

Energy and protein requirements of crossbred Holstein × Gyr calves fed commercial milk replacer and amino acid supplement

This experiment aimed to estimate the energy and protein requirements for Holstein × Gyr calves up to 60 days of age fed with milk replacer and amino acid supplement. Fifty male calves were used, of which seven were randomly allocated into the reference group and slaughtered at 8 days of age, seven were randomly allocated into the maintenance group slaughtered at 30 days of age, and the 36 remaining calves were included in the experiment at 8 days of age and randomly supplied with four dietary methionine+cysteine:lysine ratios (RMCL; 44%, 48%, 52%, and 56%) through amino acid supplement added as 1 kg/day of milk replacer reconstituted at 13.8% of dry matter. Different RMCL were tested for the models, and there were no significant effects on energy and protein requirements. The net energy requirement for maintenance was 75.2 kcal/empty bodyweight (EBW)0.75.day, with an energy use efficiency for maintenance of 67.38%. The prediction equation of net energy requirement for gain (Mcal/day) was energy retained = 0.0879 × EBW0.75 × empty bodyweight gain (EBWG)0.7580, with an energy use efficiency for gain of 47.57%. The estimated requirements for metabolisable protein for maintenance were 4.83 g/EBW0.75.day. The estimated equation for net protein requirements for gain (g/day) was NPg = EBWG × 246.73 × EBW–0.1204, with a protein use efficiency for gain of 71.55%. The estimated requirements for energy and proteins were greater than the values reported for calves fed with milk. Milk replacers are less efficiently used by calves up to 60 days of age when compared with whole milk.

A new cactus variety for dairy cows in areas infested with Dactylopius opuntiae

Spineless cactus is an important part of dairy cow diet in the semiarid Brazilia. Severe infestation of cochineal (Dactylopius opuntiae Cockerell) destroyed a vast area of the most common species of cactus planted in the region; Opuntia ficus-indica Mill. resistant varieties with superior agronomic performance were recently selected, but they still need to be tested with dairy cows. We evaluated the use of a resistant variety, ‘Orelha de Elefante Mexicana’ (OEM, Opuntia spp.), in dairy cow diet. We tested its effect on intake, nutrient digestibility, microbial protein, blood parameters and performance of lactating cows. Ten cows with an average milk yield of 20 kg/day were assigned to an experiment using a double 5 × 5 Latin square design. The experimental diets consisted of five replacement levels of Nopalea cochenillifera Salm Dyck cv. (‘Miúda’) by ‘OEM’ (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) on a dry-matter (DM) basis) and were formulated considering the ingredient composition. The roughage:concentrate ratio was 70:30 on a DM basis. The replacement of ‘Miúda’ by OEM did not change the intake (kg/day) of DM (18.0), organic matter (16.3), crude protein (CP, 2.8), total digestible nutrients (11.6), non-fibre carbohydrates (7.6) and neutral detergent fibre (5.7), or the apparent digestibility (g/kg) of DM (655), organic matter (694), CP (739) and non-fibre carbohydrates (950), whereas apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fibre increased linearly. Microbial protein production (1.5 g/day), microbial protein efficiency (129.2 g CP/kg total digestible nutrients), plasma urea nitrogen (21.4 mg/dL), nitrogen balance (123 g/day), feed efficiency (1.1), nitrogen efficiency (0.2), milk production (20.0 kg/day), fat-corrected milk production (20.1 kg/day) and milk composition were not influenced by the replacement. Therefore, we recommend the use of OEM in the diet of lactating cows with an average milk yield of 20 kg/day.

Tools and resources for neuroanatomy education: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The aim of this review was to identify studies exploring neuroanatomy teaching tools and their impact in learning, as a basis towards the implementation of a neuroanatomy program in the context of a curricular reform in medical education.

METHODS

Computer-assisted searches were conducted through March 2017 in the PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Current Contents Connect, KCI and Scielo Citation Index databases. Four sets of keywords were used, combining "neuroanatomy" with "education", "teaching", "learning" and "student*". Studies were reviewed independently by two readers, and data collected were confirmed by a third reader.

RESULTS

Of the 214 studies identified, 29 studies reported data on the impact of using specific neuroanatomy teaching tools. Most of them (83%) were published in the last 8 years and were conducted in the United States of America (65.52%). Regarding the participants, medical students were the most studied sample (37.93%) and the majority of the studies (65.52%) had less than 100 participants. Approximately half of the studies included in this review used digital teaching tools (e.g., 3D computer neuroanatomy models), whereas the remaining used non-digital learning tools (e.g., 3D physical models).

CONCLUSIONS

Our work highlight the progressive interest in the study of neuroanatomy teaching tools over the last years, as evidenced from the number of publications and highlight the need to consider new tools, coping with technological development in medical education.

Analysis of genetic variability of commercial melon cultivars using SSR molecular markers

Taking into account the scenario of melon production (Cucumis melo L.) in Brazil, it is notable the importance of the culture in the fruit market. The preference of the national market is concentrated in the fruits of the yellow type. Therefore, it is possible that the genetic base of the commercial cultivars is relatively narrow due to the loss of important genes in the breeding process, and it is possible to introgress external genes for increasing recombination possibilities that generate sources of resistance to the main diseases and superior genotypes. This study evaluated the genetic variability of 87 melon accessions composed of 72 commercial cultivars belonging to the Inodorus and Cantaloupensis groups and 15 plant introductions (PIs). Forty-four polymorphic SSR primers were used to amplify a total of 202 alleles. The expected heterozygosity presented an average of 0.519 and the PIC index of 0.458, being moderately informative. The dendrogram generated for the 72 cultivars grouped the genotypes into 2 main groups, and there was no association with the classification of groups of the genotypes in the grouping. The number of SSR markers was sufficient to predict wide genetic variability among the cultivars studied, with the similarity between 0.35 and 0.98. The dendrogram presented for the 72 cultivars and the 15 PI genotypes was not associated with the classification of the genotypes in the grouping, and the 15 PIs were well dispersed with similarity indexes that resemble the two groups studied. A set of 25 primers was identified that were useful in distinguishing the 72 cultivars. These primers can be used in later research with the cultivars, as well as in crop protection situations, being an important tool in the useful and rapid distinction of genotypes, and in commercial disputes regarding the certification of the main melon cultivars used in the country.

The impact of students and curriculum on self-study during clinical training in medical school: a multilevel approach

BACKGROUND

In higher education, the focus has shifted from the acquisition of knowledge to learning objectives and skills. This means that, the majority of student learning time is spent independently working outside the classroom. Students take an active role in setting goals, deciding how to achieve them, and planning individual study time. Although extensive research has recognized the importance of curriculum and students' characteristics in time devoted to self-study, it is still unclear to what extent these variables affect time to study. Due to the growing reliance on self-directed learning in medical education, and in an attempt to elucidate this issue, this research aims to evaluate self-study time during clinical training and assess whether this is more influenced by the student or the curriculum.

METHODS

A questionnaire was given to 1220 medical students (43.3% of the enrolled students). The students were asked to indicate the average number of study hours per week beyond the time allocated to classes for each clerkship (rotation) attended. Variation and generalizability of students' self-study were estimated using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Findings showed that the intrinsic differences within students were a greater source of variation in self-study time than differences within clerkships (56.0% vs. 6.9%). If the amount of self-study dedicated to an individual clerkship is to be determined, at least 32 students are needed to achieve acceptable reliability. However, this data with two clerkships per student can used to retrospectively measure the self-study reported by students in clinical training.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that, both, curriculum and student characteristics influence self-study in undergraduate clinical training. Indeed, students' characteristics play a significant role in time devoted to study. Further research should be undertaken to investigate students' characteristics that may predict self-study during undergraduate medical training.

Therapeutic potential of green tea on risk factors for type 2 diabetes in obese adults - a review

Green tea has been associated with positive effects in the treatment of obesity and other associated comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes. These benefits are thought to be related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of green tea and to the reduction in body fat percentage exhibited by its bioactive compounds. The predominant active compounds in green tea are flavonoid monomers known as catechins, in particular epigallocatechin-3-gallate, which is the most abundant and most effective catechin in metabolic care, particularly among obese patients. The objective of this review was to investigate the effects of green tea on body composition, oxidative stress, inflammation and insulin resistance, risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes in obese individuals and the mechanisms that underlie the modulatory actions of green tea compounds on these risk factors. Although green tea has therapeutic potential in the treatment of obese individuals, the findings of this review demonstrate the need for a greater number of studies to confirm the positive effects of green tea, especially regarding the modulation of obesity.

Prepartum stocking density: effects on metabolic, health, reproductive, and productive responses

The objectives of the current experiment were to determine the effects of 2 prepartum stocking densities on milk yield, concentration of metabolites during the peripartum period, and health and reproductive parameters of dairy cows. Jersey cows enrolled in the experiment at 254±3 d of gestation were balanced for parity (nulliparous vs. parous) and previous lactation projected 305-d mature equivalent milk yield (parous) and assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: 80% headlock stocking density (80SD; 38 animals/48 headlocks) and 100% headlock stocking density (100SD; 48 animals/48 headlocks). The number of experimental units was 8 (4 replicates and 2 pens/treatment per replicate). In total, 154 nulliparous and 184 parous animals were enrolled in the 80SD treatment and 186 nulliparous and 232 parous animals were enrolled in the 100SD treatment. At the start of each replicate, treatments were switched within pen. Cows were milked thrice daily and monthly milk yield, fat and protein content, and somatic cell count data were recorded up to 155 d postpartum. Plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentration was measured weekly, from -18±3 to 17±3 d relative to calving, and plasma β-hydroxybutyrate was measured weekly, from 1±2 to 17±3 d relative to calving. Cows were examined 1, 4±1, 7±1, 10±1, and 13±1 d relative to calving for diagnosis of uterine diseases. Blood was sampled for determination of progesterone concentration and resumption of ovarian cycles 35±3 and 45±3 d relative to calving. Average headlock (74.1±0.4 vs. 94.5±0.3%) and stall (80.8±0.4 vs. 103.1±0.4%) stocking density was lower for the 80SD treatment compared with the 100SD treatment. Treatment did not affect incidence of retained fetal membranes (80SD=5.1, 100SD=7.8%), metritis (80SD=21.2, 100SD=16.7%), acute metritis (80SD=9.9, 100SD=9.4%), and vaginal purulent discharge (80SD=5.8, 100SD=7.9%). Concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (80SD=251.5±6.1, 100SD=245.9±5.6μmol/L) and β-hydroxybutyrate (80SD=508.2±14.3, 100SD=490.9±13.6μmol/L) were not different between treatments. Treatment had no effect on percentage of cows removed from the herd on the first 60 d postpartum (80SD=6.1, 100SD=5.1%) and on rate of removal from the herd up to 305 d postpartum 80SD=referent, 100SD [adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval)]=1.02 (0.75, 1.38). Percentages of cows pregnant to first (80SD=41.9, 100SD=48.4%) and second (80SD=49.3, 100SD=42.0%) postpartum AI were not different between treatments. Finally, treatment did not affect energy-corrected milk yield up to 155 d postpartum (80SD=33.8±0.5, 100SD=33.4±0.5kg/d). In herds with weekly or twice weekly movement of new cows to the prepartum pen and separate housing of nulliparous and parous animals, a target stocking density of 100% of headlocks on the day of movement is not expected to affect health, metabolic, reproductive, and productive parameters.

How medical education can contribute towards the reduction of maternal mortality in Angola: the teaching/learning process of Gynecology and Obstetrics

BACKGROUND

In Angola the maternal mortality ratio is among the highest in the world. Medical students are an important target for intervention.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate how students perceive the curricular unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics (G&O) in a public institution of reference in Angola.

METHODS

The study involved a sample of 147 students of the faculty of Medicine of the University Agostinho Neto, Luanda, Angola, attending the curricular unit of G&O in the 5th and 6th years of the medical course. Data were obtained through surveys of opinion. The information of the scales was summarized through the construction of scores from the original items using the Principal Components Analysis.

RESULTS

Students evaluated positively the curricular unit although emphasizing the lack of human and physical resources. The 5th year scored with higher values Teacher Performance and 6th year Students' Performance. Both years considered to have insufficient skills to meet the learning objectives.

CONCLUSION

Constraints were identified in the outcomes of the teaching/learning program. Several points emerged as crucial from this study: widespread the areas of teaching/learning, increase the number and quality of teaching staff, improve the monitoring of students and provide adequate infrastructures and medical equipment to support the teaching/learning program.

Fontes de gordura sobre a modulação do perfil de ácidos graxos da carne de pequenos ruminantes

O metabolismo dos lipídios nos ruminantes envolve processos que modificam substancialmente os lipídios da dieta, sendo parcialmente responsáveis pela presença de grandes quantidades de ácidos graxos saturados na carne destes animais, bem como pela presença de CLA. Diante da preocupação do consumidor atual com aspectos concernentes à saúde, a ciência animal tem buscado manipular o perfil lipídico da carne de pequenos ruminantes objetivando enriquecê-la com ácidos graxos poli-insaturados, diminuir a relação saturado/insaturado e aumentar os teores de CLA. A dieta tem sido apontada como principal fator que influencia o perfil lipídico da carne de ruminantes. A literatura sugere que a suplementação com lipídios ricos em ácidos graxos poli-insaturados é eficiente em diminuir os ácidos graxos saturados e aumentar os teores de ácidos poli-insaturados benéficos à saúde humana. Fatores como relação volumoso : concentrado, fonte lipídica usada na suplementação, proteção da gordura e tempo de suplementação têm influência significativa sobre o efeito da inclusão de lipídios na alimentação de pequenos ruminantes. As sementes oleaginosas e seus respectivos óleos têm se mostrado eficientes em incrementar os teores de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados e CLA na carne de caprinos e ovinos. O óleo de peixe e extrato de algas marinhas são fontes eficazes para maior deposição de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados de cadeia muito longa na carne. São necessárias mais pesquisas que investiguem como a dieta, e mais precisamente os lipídios, modulam os processos que ocorrem em nível de rúmen e modificam o perfil lipídico da carne de caprinos e ovinos.

Cat scratch disease and lymph node tuberculosis in a colon patient with cancer

A 71-year-old man operated for a sigmoid tumour remained in the surveillance after adjuvant chemotherapy. After 3 years, a left axillary lymph node was visible on CT scan. The biopsy revealed a necrotising and abscessed granulomatous lymphadenitis, suggestive of cat scratch disease. The patient confirmed having been scratched by a cat and the serology for Bartonella henselae was IgM+/IgG-. Direct and culture examinations for tuberculosis were negative. The patient was treated for cat scratch disease. One year later, the CT scan showed increased left axillary lymph nodes and a left pleural effusion. Direct and cultural examinations to exclude tuberculosis were again negative. Interferon-γ release assay testing for tuberculosis was undetermined and then positive. Lymph node and pleural tuberculosis were diagnosed and treated with a good radiological response. This article has provides evidence of the importance of continued search for the right diagnosis and that two diagnoses can happen in the same patient.

Genetic divergence among accessions of melon from traditional agriculture of the Brazilian Northeast

The genetic divergence of 38 melon accessions from traditional agriculture of the Brazilian Northeast and three commercial hybrids were evaluated using fruit descriptors and microsatellite markers. The melon germplasm belongs to the botanic varieties cantalupensis (19), momordica (7), conomon (4), and inodorus (3), and to eight genotypes that were identified only at the species level. The fruit descriptors evaluated were: number of fruits per plant (NPF), fruit mass (FM; kg), fruit longitudinal diameter (LD; cm), fruit transversal diameter (TD; cm), shape index based on the LD/TD ratio, flesh pulp thickness, cavity thickness (CT; cm), firmness fruit pulp (N), and soluble solids (SS; °Brix). The results showed high variability for all descriptors, especially for NPF, LD, and FM. The grouping analysis based on fruit descriptors produced eight groups without taxonomic criteria. The LD (22.52%), NPF (19.70%), CT (16.13%), and SS (9.57%) characteristics were the descriptors that contributed the most to genotype dissimilarity. The 17 simple sequence repeat polymorphic markers amplified 41 alleles with an average of 2.41 alleles and three genotypes per locus. Some markers presented a high frequency for the main allele. The genetic diversity ranged from 0.07 to 0.60, the observed heterozygosity had very low values, and the mean polymorphism information content was 0.32. Molecular genetic similarity analyses clustered the accessions in 13 groups, also not following taxonomic ranks. There was no association between morphoagronomic and molecular groupings. In conclusion, there was great variability among the accessions and among and within botanic groups.

The eggshell features and clutch viability of the broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris) are associated with the egg burden of organochlorine compounds

Organochlorine compounds (OCCs) are toxic and have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The broad-snouted Caiman (Caiman latirostris) is an oviparous species widely distributed in South America with potential to accumulate OCCs. The eggshell is formed during passage of the eggs through the oviduct. Since the oviduct is a target of hormone actions, exposure to OCCs could modify eggshell quality, thus affecting clutch viability. Eight clutches were collected from wetlands of Parana River tributaries, in north-eastern Argentina. Two to four eggs per clutch were used to establish the burden of OCCs, eggshell thickness and eggshell porosity. The remaining eggs were incubated in controlled conditions. Ten days after hatching, hatchling survival was assessed. Organochlorine pesticide residues (OCPs) were found in all clutches, while polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were present in all but one clutch. The principal contributors to the OCP burden were members of the DDT family and oxychlordane. Eggshell thickness was 400.9±6.0 μm and, unexpectedly, no association between eggshell thickness and the OCC burden was found. The number of pores in the outer surface was 25.3±4.3 pores/cm². A significant inverse correlation between porosity and OCC burden was found (Pearson r= -0.81, p= 0.01). Furthermore, a decrease in caiman survival with decreased pore density was observed (Pearson r= 0.73, p= 0.04). Our findings highlight another potential negative impact of current and past use of OCCs on wildlife species.

Mechanical behaviour of a prototype orthodontic retraction spring: a numerical-experimental study

The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanical behaviour of orthodontic delta retraction springs. Twelve titanium-molybdenum (0.016 × 0.022 inch) delta loops were studied. The springs were analysed by means of the finite element (FE) method and experimental tests using a platform transducer. Each spring was activated from 0 to 6 mm. Statistical analysis of the data was carried out by one-way analysis of variance and Games-Howell parametric multiple comparison test for heterogeneous variances. FE analysis revealed that the stress level varied from 277 to 1273 MPa. At 6.1 mm (773 MPa), the springs were still in the elastic range. Force levels varied from 0.1 N (10 g) to 2.2 N (224 g) at 1.4-8.1 mm of activation for the numerical study and from 0.44 N (45 g) at 1 mm to 2.02 N (206 g) at 6 mm of activation in the experimental study. The spring rate was within the levels that are appropriate for clinical use (34 g/mm). Vertical forces (Fy) showed constancy and were of low magnitude. The anterior moment/force ratio from the experimental tests was 14 at 3 mm of activation decreasing to 10.7, 8.7, and 7.2, for 4, 5, and 6 mm of activation, respectively. The springs could be activated up to 7 mm without exceeding the elastic limit.

Genetic relationships among Heliconia (Heliconiaceae) species based on RAPD markers

The family Heliconiaceae contains a single genus, Heliconia, with approximately 180 species of Neotropical origin. This genus was formerly allocated to the family Musaceae, but today forms its own family, in the order Zingiberales. The combination of inverted flowers, a single staminode and drupe fruits is an exclusive characteristic of Heliconia. Heliconias are cultivated as ornamental garden plants, and are of increasing importance as cut flowers. However, there are taxonomic confusions and uncertainties about the number of species and the relationships among them. Molecular studies are therefore necessary for better understanding of the species boundaries of these plants. We examined the genetic variability and the phylogenetic relationships of 124 accessions of the genus Heliconia based on RAPD markers. Phenetic and cladistic analyses, using 231 polymorphic RAPD markers, demonstrated that the genus Heliconia is monophyletic. Groupings corresponding to currently recognized species and some subgenera were found, and cultivars and hybrids were found to cluster with their parents. RAPD analysis generally agreed with morphological species classification, except for the position of the subgenus Stenochlamys, which was found to be polyphyletic.

Genetic diversity studies of Brazilian garlic cultivars and quality control of garlic-clover production

The garlic cultivars grown in Brazil evolved from somatic mutations and clone selection by breeding programs and by the introduction of germplasm from other countries. Morphological characters have been used to differentiate these cultivars. Two hundred and six random amplified polymorphic DNA markers were utilized for a diversity analysis of the 17 most planted garlic cultivars in Brazil. Bootstrap analysis showed that the number of markers was efficient and sufficient to obtain a coefficient of variation of 10%. Similarity varied between 16 and 98% and cluster analysis showed that, in general, genetic similarities correlate with morphological characters of the cultivars and production cycle variation. High bootstrap values at most of the nodes supported the dendrogram stability. The grouping of most varieties agreed well with previous reports based on morphological characters. As a vegetative-propagated species, viral diseases are a key problem regarding production and quality of the bulbs, causing gradual loss of yield and decrease in storage capacity. To improve the health quality of garlic seed, a virus-free stock of garlic cloves of the Amarante cultivar was obtained. The ability to distinguish garlic cultivars to detect varietal mixing after in vitro multiplication is extremely important, since correct identification is not possible until bulbs are produced. Random amplified polymorphic DNA markers were also used to differentiate cultivars while they are in vitro and not amenable to morphological discrimination. No difference was identified between the fingerprints of the virus-free or of the infected bulks of Amarante, showing that there was no clove mixing in the handling of material in the clonal multiplication phase.

Polymorphisms of GSTP1 and GSTT1, but not of CYP2A6, CYP2E1 or GSTM1, modify the risk for esophageal cancer in a western population

Esophageal cancer is among the most common and fatal tumors in the world. Eighty percent of esophageal tumors are esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Brazil is one of the high incidence areas in the West, where tobacco and alcohol consumption have been associated with ESCC. However, polymorphisms in xenobiotic metabolizing genes may also contribute to the risk. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the risk of ESCC associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption and with polymorphisms of CYP2A6 (CYP2A6*2), CYP2E1 (CYP2E1*5B, CYP2E1*6), GSTP1 (Ile105Val), GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes in 126 cases and 252 age- and gender-matched controls. Data on the amount, length and type of tobacco and alcohol consumed were collected, and DNA was extracted from blood lymphocytes from all individuals. Polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-multiplex (GSTM1 and T1), PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (CYP2E1*5B and *6 and GSTP1 Ile105Val) or allele-specific PCR amplification (CYP2A6*2). Risks were evaluated by multivariate conditional regression analysis. As expected, tobacco [odds ratio (OR) = 6.71, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 3.08-14.63] and alcohol (OR = 16.98, CI 7.8-36.98) consumption, independently or together (OR = 26.91, CI 13.39-54.05) were risk factors. GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism was an independent risk factor (OR = 2.12, CI 1.37-3.29), whereas GSTT1 wild-type was an independent protective factor for ESCC (OR = 0.37, CI 0.16-0.79). There was approximately 80% statistical power to detect both results. There was no risk associated with CYP2A6, CYP2E1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms. In conclusion, this study suggests an opposite role of GSTP1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms for the risk for ESCC.

A Successful Struggle to Prolong Arteriovenous Fistula Patency: A Case Report

An adequate vascular access (VA) significantly determines the morbidity and mortality of chronic renal failure (CRF) patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD). VA patency depends on the early identification of complications and its management by the nephrologists and vascular surgeon. Venous stenosis accounts for the majority of thromboses, but its early detection followed by either percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) and/or surgical correction will improve fistula patency. We present the clinical case report of a 90-year-old patient with recurrent central venous stenosis after PTA that was corrected with bypass surgery. Two years after surgery the original fistula is still used showing no signs of access dysfunction.

Analysis of heterocyclic aromatic amines in foods by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry as their tert.-butyldimethylsilyl derivatives

A derivatization method for the analysis of 12 heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAs) in food, by gas chromatography-electron impact mass spectrometry, was developed. The amines are derivatized in a one-step reaction with N-methyl-N-(tert.-butyldimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide. The derivatives are characterized by easy-to-interpret mass spectra due to the prominent ion [M-57]+ by loss of a tert.-butyldimethylsilyl group, allowing quantification in the selected-ion monitoring mode at the picogram level. The effect of temperature, time, and reagents on the formation of the derivatives was monitored in detail. Quality parameters were evaluated in the optimum working conditions. This derivatization method is not applicable to the pyridoimidazoles Glu-P-1 and Glu-P-2 and to the beta-carboline harman due to incompletely derivatization. The instability of the imidazolquinoline and imidazoquinoxaline derivatives, requiring their injection on the same working day, is a further drawback. This simple, rapid and accurate derivatization procedure is suitable for routine analysis, as illustrated by the analysis of some common foods.

Quantification of Short-Chain Free Fatty Acids in “Terrincho” Ewe Cheese: Intravarietal Comparison

Headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was employed for the quantification of volatile free fatty acids (FFA) in "Terrincho" ewe cheese. Solid-phase microextraction quantitative analysis was feasible under equilibrium situations as long as the conditions of agitation and the adsorption time were held constant. An excellent linear relationship between the amount of the adsorbed analyte and its initial concentration in the sample matrix was obtained when an adequate amount of sample was chosen. Thus, quantification was possible if biases due to competition or linear range excesses were controlled. Solid-phase microextraction sampling was carried out at 65 degrees C, and a fiber coated with an 85-micro/m polyacrylate film was chosen. After equilibration at 65 degrees C for 40 min, the fiber was exposed to the headspace above the sample for 20 min and then inserted into the gas chromatograph. The evolution of the volatile FFA during Terrincho ewe cheese ripening was analyzed for a 60-d period. An overall increase in FFA contents was verified up to 30 d of ripening. Between 30 and 45 d most FFA did not suffer significant changes. All FFA increased significantly by the 60-d ripening period. The excessive lipolysis observed at 60 d of ripening may result in the presence of off-flavors. Principal component analysis performed for intravarietal comparison of volatile FFA composition of 19 Terrincho cheeses, analyzed at 30 ripening days, enabled discrimination between cheeses produced at five different dairy plants.

Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric quantification of 4-(5-)methylimidazole in roasted coffee after ion-pair extraction

A GC-MS method is described for quantification of 4-(5-)methylimidazole (4MI) in coffee. Although tested, GC-flame ionization detection proved inadequate for this purpose due to the complexity of the coffee matrix. The developed method was based on ion-pair extraction with bis-2-ethylhexylphosphate and derivatization with isobutylchloroformate. Quantification was carried out by the standard addition method using 2-ethylimidazole as internal standard. Reproducibility data from the complete procedure are presented. Mean recoveries were higher than 98%. The method was applied to green and roasted coffee samples from the two most important varieties, arabica and robusta, and to commercial "torrefacto" coffee blends. 4MI was not detected in the green coffee samples analysed and ranged from 0.307 to 1.241 mg/kg in roasted samples.

Solid-phase microextraction in combination with GC/MS for quantification of the major volatile free fatty acids in ewe cheese

This work describes a method for quantification of the major free fatty acids of ewe cheese that contribute to its distinct and strongly marked flavor. A headspace SPME method in combination with GC/MS was used for the extraction, identification, and quantification of butanoic, hexanoic, octanoic and decanoic acids in ewe cheeses. The method used for sample preparation was simple. A fiber coated with 85-microm polyacrylate film was chosen to extract the free fatty acids. To perform a reliable quantification, several factors were taken into consideration for reliable quantification, namely, (i) the influence of addition of water, of an electrolyte or of a hygroscopic salt, on the release of free fatty acids from the matrix; (ii) the linear relationship between the amount of analyte adsorbed by the SPME polymer film and the initial concentration of the analyte in the cheese sample; and (iii) the competition for adsorption by fiber. Water removal with sodium sulfate promoted a more efficient extraction of volatile free fatty acids; biases due to competition or linear range excesses were controlled by choosing the appropriate amount of sample for each ewe cheese. The method of standard additions was used with success for the quantification of free fatty acids. Calibration curves that were constructed for the major short-chain free fatty acids (butanoic, hexanoic, octanoic, and decanoic acids) spiked into cheese followed linear relationships with highly significant (p < 0.001) correlation coefficients (r > 0.999). Coefficients of variation of <7.9% indicated that the technique was reproducible. A marked increase in concentration of short-chain free fatty acids was observed during cheese ripening, ranging from 0.35 to 9.33 mg/100 g for butanoic acid, 0.363 to 4.34 mg/100 g for hexanoic acid, 0.343 to 2.0 mg/100 g for octanoic acid, and 1.291 to 3.85 mg/100 g for decanoic acid. The limits of quantification were registered at levels of parts per million. The absolute quantification of butanoic acid was also carried out by using isotope dilution assays (IDA). The levels of acid obtained with this method were similar to those obtained by the standard additions method.

Renal cell carcinoma and malignant phase hypertension

Many cross-sectional and follow-up studies of large numbers of patients with hypertension have demonstrated an increased prevalence and mortality from renal cancer. We report the details of three patients with renal cell carcinoma from a series of 254 consecutive patients with malignant phase hypertension, an excess over the expected number reported from several large published series with non-malignant hypertension. In view of this excess we investigated the prevalence of hypertension in a series of 192 consecutive patients who presented with a diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma, in comparison with a local unselected population screening survey. Hypertension was found in 43% of the renal carcinoma patients and 20% of the local population, also a clear excess. The mechanism of the association between renal cancer and malignant and non-malignant hypertension is unclear.

Bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis associated with infective endocarditis: case report

Bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare condition initiated by infection by microbes in the bloodstream, such as those arising from a foci of infective endocarditis. We report a case and discuss the diagnostic aspects and the clinical outcome of a patient with characteristic findings of the disease. The patient was a 49 year old white male who had a metallic aortic valve implanted 7 months previously, and who presented to the hospital with 10 days of fever, cough and dyspnea, then diarrhea and mental confusion. On the second day of hospitalization, he experienced sudden loss of vision in both eyes. A Gram-positive coccobacillus was isolated from the bloodstream, he was treated with fluoroquinolone with disappearance of fever, decreased ocular inflammation, and improvement in his vision to light perception. He later underwent valve replacement surgery but died during the procedure. We review the occurrence of ocular signs and symptoms and their importance in patients with endocarditis.

Effects of phenolic propyl esters on the oxidative stability of refined sunflower oil

The oxidative stability of refined sunflower oil in the presence and in the absence of propyl caffeate (PC), propyl hydrocaffeate (PHC), propyl ferulate (PF), and propyl isoferulate (PI) has been evaluated according to the Rancimat method. The antioxidant activity of the phenolic derivatives was compared with that obtained with native [alpha-tocopherol (alpha-TOH)] and synthetic [propyl gallate (PG)] antioxidants. The results allow the establishment of a decreasing order of antioxidant power: PG > PHC > PC >> alpha-TOH > PI > PF. The oxidative stability was improved neither by the addition of PF nor by a supplement of alpha-TOH. Moreover, a positive antioxidant effect was obtained for PC that was placed between those of alpha-TOH and PG. The antioxidant activity of PHC was higher than that of its analogue (PC). A dose-dependent effect was observed for PG, PHC, and PC. A chain-breaking mechanism was proposed for the antioxidant activity of propyl phenolic esters because the same ranking order of efficacy was obtained for their antiradical activities evaluated by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical method.