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Los biofertilizantes han surgido en la agricultura con el objetivo de fomentar prácticas sostenibles en este sector. El presente trabajo de investigación tuvo como finalidad comparar el efecto de biofertilizantes elaborados a base de residuos sólidos orgánicos de legumbres, frutas y pescado bonito (Sarda chiliensis chiliensis) sobre el rendimiento de la vainita (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), en sus variedades Jade y Magnum, al ser cultivadas a casi 500 m s.n.m. en la ciudad de Tacna, Perú. Se realizó un análisis de las parámetros y propiedades de los biofertilizantes, obteniendo valores elevados de micronutrientes, macronutrientes y aminoácidos lo que avisoraría una posible influencia en el rendimiento de los cultivos al ser aplicados sobre estos. Para comprobar ello, se empleó un diseño de bloques completamente aleatorizados estableciéndose ocho tratamientos (aplicando a cada variedad: biol frutado; hidrólisis de residuos de pescado; la combinación de ambos y; un testigo) y seis bloques (parcelas). Tras la aplicación de un análisis de varianza, se determinó que existieron diferencias significativas en el rendimiento de los distintos tratamientos con un 95 % de confianza y; también entre los bloques con un 99 % de confianza. Se concluyó que el tratamiento compuesto por 80 L ha-1 de hidrólisis de residuos de pescado bonito, que fueron aplicados a la vainita en la variedad Magnum fue el que obtuvo un mayor rendimiento (0.455 t ha-1). Asimismo, se evidenció que la variedad Magnum fue superior a la variedad Jade en todos los tratamientos realizados, incluyendo sus testigos.

The importance of parameters such as compaction pressure, binder percentage and retention time and their interaction in the production of carbonized briquettes for domestic or industrial use cannot be overestimated, as they have a considerable impact on the properties of the resulting briquettes. This study used Box-Behnken Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Analysis Of Variance (ANOVA) to show how the above parameters and their interactions significantly influence the Higher Heating Value (HHV), ash content and Impact Resistance Index (IRI) of the biofuels obtained. The briquettes are characterized in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials ASTM D-(5865 and 3172). IRI is determined by the drop test. The Niton XLT900s X-ray fluorescence spectrometer is used for mineralogical analysis. The peel starch used as a binder is characterized by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists standard. This starch has a starch purity of 89.8 %, an HHV of 13974 kJ/kg, a protein content of 4.79 % and a sugar content of 1.3 %. The HHV of the biofuels ranged from 23783 to 26050 kJ/kg, their ash content from 2.86 to 5.24 %, and the IRI from 136.36 to 500 %. The significant effect of binder on these results is confirmed (p

In this paper, we discuss challenges associated with implementing a policy for Ancillary Care (AC) for related and unrelated (serious) adverse events during an Ebola vaccine trial conducted in a remote area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Conducting clinical trials in resourceconstrained settings can raise context-related challenges that have implications for study participants’ health and wellbeing. During the Ebola vaccine study, three participants were injured in road traffic accidents, but there were unexpected difficulties when trying to apply the AC policy. First, because of the nature of the adverse events, the insurer refused to cover the costs. Second, the AC policy did not address treatments by traditional medicine, even though traditional medicines are frequently used and highly trusted in the study community. This highlighted a contrast between the researchers’ well-intentioned AC approach and the participants’ legitimate preferences. The way in which researchers should address their responsibility to provide AC is not straightforward; it requires contextualization. Our experience highlights the importance of involving community representatives and the local ethics committee to ensure development of an AC policy that is culturally and ethically appropriate. Additionally, the insurance contract should clearly stipulate which adverse events are linked to the trial participation, and thus eligible for coverage, to avoid controversies when claims are made.

This study aimed to evaluate scientific evidence of the benefit of the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) on the birth weight of newborns and the hemoglobin level of the mother when used to prevent malaria during pregnancy. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 467 hospitalized women in the Maternity Ward of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that was pre-tested during a face-to-face interview. Apart from basic statistics, the chi-square test was used to compare proportions. Multivariate analysis (logistic regression) was used to identify variables significantly associated with the 95% confidence interval (CI). The ITN ownership rate was 81% (95% CI: 77–84) and the ITN use rate was 66% (95% CI: 62–70). Sixty-five percent (95% CI: 60–69) reported having received at least three doses of IPT during pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyramethemine (IPTp-SP). There was a statistically significant difference in hemoglobin levels between hospitalized women who did not use the ITN (9.4 g/dL IIQ: 8.7–9.9) and those who did (11 g/dL IIQ: 9.8–12.2). The non-use of the ITN was associated with low birth weight (aOR = 3.6; 95% CI: 2.1–6.2; p < 0.001) and anemia in pregnant women (cOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.16–5.01; p = 0.018). The use of ITN and taking at least three doses of ITP during pregnancy are associated with good birth weight. The number of doses of IPTp received during antenatal care is associated with the maternal hemoglobin level in the third trimester of pregnancy.

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo principal presentar una Metodología de Análisis Forense para especialistas en peritaje informático cuyas actividades en los encargos judiciales sea en investigación de periféricos de almacenamiento en Sistemas Operativos Linux o Windows; con la finalidad de obtener evidencias digitales. La estructura que conforma las etapas de la metodología están basados en los criterios establecidos dentro de la normativa RFC 3227 para las directrices que permitan realizar la recolección de evidencias y su almacenamiento estandarizado en el tratamiento de incidentes de seguridad; la UNE 71506:2013 permitió mediante la metodología del análisis forense guiar el desarrollo de las etapas; para la elaboración de los informes periciales se obtuvo soporte en la UNE 197010:2015 la cual cuenta con varios criterios para la elaboración de los dictámenes en el ámbito de las TIC y para fortalecer la metodología se analizó la UNE-EN ISO/IEC 27037:2016 para incluir varias de las normas que permiten realizar los procesos de identificación, recolección, adquisición y preservación de las potenciales evidencias digitales. Los resultados obtenidos concluyen que las metodologías tradicionales pueden mejorar la experiencia investigativa y procedimental del especialista mediante la implementación Figuras de flujo sin perder la calidad en el proceso.

Introduction A serosurvey among health care providers (HCPs) and frontliners of an area previously affected by Ebola virus disease (EVD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was conducted to assess the seroreactivity to Ebola virus antigens. Methods Serum samples were collected in a cohort of HCPs and frontliners (n = 698) participants in the EBL2007 vaccine trial (December 2019 to October 2022). Specimens seroreactive for EBOV were confirmed using either the Filovirus Animal Nonclinical Group (FANG) ELISA or a Luminex multiplex assay. Results The seroreactivity to at least two EBOV-Mayinga (m) antigens was found in 10 (1.4%: 95% CI, 0.7–2.6) samples for GP-EBOV-m + VP40-EBOV-m, and 2 (0.3%: 95% CI, 0.0–1.0) samples for VP40-EBOV-m + NP-EBOV-m using the Luminex assay. Seroreactivity to GP-EBOV-Kikwit (k) was observed in 59 (8.5%: 95%CI, 6.5–10.9) samples using FANG ELISA. Conclusion In contrast to previous serosurveys, a low seroprevalence was found in the HCP and frontline population participating in the EBL2007 Ebola vaccine trial in Boende, DRC. This underscores the high need for standardized antibody assays and cutoffs in EBOV serosurveys to avoid the broad range of reported EBOV seroprevalence rates in EBOV endemic areas.

Introduction This article describes the protocol of an Ebola vaccine clinical trial which investigates the safety and immunogenicity of a two-dose prophylactic Ebola vaccine regimen comprised of two Ebola vaccines (Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo) administered 56 days apart, followed by a booster vaccination with Ad26.ZEBOV offered at either 1 year or 2 years (randomisation 1:1) after the first dose. This clinical trial is part of the EBOVAC3 project (an Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking), and is the first to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of two different booster vaccination arms in a large cohort of adults.Methods and analysis This study is an open-label, monocentric, phase 2, randomised vaccine trial. A total of 700 healthcare providers and frontliners are planned to be recruited from the Tshuapa province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The primary and secondary objectives of the study assess the immunogenicity of the first (Ad26.ZEBOV), second (MVA-BN-Filo) and booster (Ad26.ZEBOV) dose. Immunogenicity is assessed through the evaluation of EBOV glycoprotein binding antibody responses after vaccination. Safety is assessed through the collection of serious adverse events from the first dose until 6 months post booster vaccination and the collection of solicited and unsolicited adverse events for 1 week after the booster dose.Ethics and dissemination The protocol was approved by the National Ethics Committee of the Ministry of Health of the DRC (n°121/CNES/BN/PMMF/2019). The clinical trial was registered on 4 December 2019 on ClinicalTrials.gov. Trial activities are planned to finish in October 2022. All participants are required to provide written informed consent and no study-related procedures will be performed until consent is obtained. The results of the trial will be added on ClinicalTrials.gov, published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.Trial registration number NCT04186000; Pre-results.

ABSTRACT: This study detected the presence and distribution of mecA in Staphylococcus spp. in the dairy production environment at farm level in Brazil. We analyzed 335 samples of mastitis cow milk, 15 samples of nostrils and hand swabs from milkers, 14 teat cup swabs, and 9 milking buckets swabs. Initially, the samples were subjected to microbiological analysis to detect Staphylococcus spp. and then S. aureus and mecA positive isolates were identified by PCR. All S. aureus isolates carrying the mecA genes were subjected to DNA macro-restriction analysis by Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). The mecA gene was detected in 6/335 (1.78%) of mastitis cow milk, 5/15 (33.3%), and 5/15 (33.3%) of nostrils and hand swab, and 4/14 (28.5%) of the teat cup isolates. MRSA genotyping was performed by PFGE, a total of seven pulsotypes were grouped in two clusters. This study identified the occurrence and spread of MRSA at dairy environment of farms, and also the existence of distinct genetic profiles between isolates.

BackgroundA partnership between the University of Antwerp and the University of Kinshasa implemented the EBOVAC3 clinical trial with an Ebola vaccine regimen administered to health care provider participants in Tshuapa Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This randomized controlled trial was part of an Ebola outbreak preparedness initiative financed through Innovative Medicines Initiative-European Union. The EBOVAC3 clinical trial used iris scan technology to identify all health care provider participants enrolled in the vaccine trial, to ensure that the right participant received the right vaccine at the right visit. ObjectiveWe aimed to assess the acceptability, accuracy, and feasibility of iris scan technology as an identification method within a population of health care provider participants in a vaccine trial in a remote setting. MethodsWe used a mixed methods study. The acceptability was assessed prior to the trial through 12 focus group discussions (FGDs) and was assessed at enrollment. Feasibility and accuracy research was conducted using a longitudinal trial study design, where iris scanning was compared with the unique study ID card to identify health care provider participants at enrollment and at their follow-up visits. ResultsDuring the FGDs, health care provider participants were mainly concerned about the iris scan technology causing physical problems to their eyes or exposing them to spiritual problems through sorcery. However, 99% (85/86; 95% CI 97.1-100.0) of health care provider participants in the FGDs agreed to be identified by the iris scan. Also, at enrollment, 99.0% (692/699; 95% CI 98.2-99.7) of health care provider participants accepted to be identified by iris scan. Iris scan technology correctly identified 93.1% (636/683; 95% CI 91.2-95.0) of the participants returning for scheduled follow-up visits. The iris scanning operation lasted 2 minutes or less for 96.0% (656/683; 95% CI 94.6-97.5), and 1 attempt was enough to identify the majority of study participants (475/683, 69.5%; 95% CI 66.1-73.0). ConclusionsIris scans are highly acceptable as an identification tool in a clinical trial for health care provider participants in a remote setting. Its operationalization during the trial demonstrated a high level of accuracy that can reliably identify individuals. Iris scanning is found to be feasible in clinical trials but requires a trained operator to reduce the duration and the number of attempts to identify a participant. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04186000; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04186000

Implementing an Ebola vaccine trial in a remote area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and being confronted with a dysfunctional health care system and acute unmet health needs of participants, ethical considerations were made regarding the ancillary care obligations of the sponsor and researchers. Spurred by the occurrence of non-related (serious) adverse events (NR-SAEs), the Universities of Antwerp and Kinshasa jointly developed an algorithm, accompanied by an algorithm policy. The algorithm consists of a set of consecutive questions with binary response options, leading to structured, non-arbitrary and consistent support and management for each NR-SAE. It is the result of dialogue and collaboration between the sponsor (University of Antwerp) and the principal investigator (University of Kinshasa), consultation of literature, and input of research ethics and social sciences experts. The characteristics of the project and its budgetary framework were taken into account, as well as the local socioeconomic and healthcare situation. The algorithm and related policy have been approved by the relevant ethics committee (EC), so field implementation will begin when the study activities resume in November 2021. Lessons learnt will be shared with the relevant stakeholders within and outside DRC.If NR-SAEs are not covered by a functioning social welfare system, sponsors and researchers should develop a feasible, standardised and transparent approach to the provision of ancillary care. National legislation and contextualised requirements are therefore needed, particularly in low/middle-income countries, to guide researchers and sponsors in this process. Protocols, particularly of clinical trials conducted in areas with ‘access to care’ constraints, should include adequate ancillary care arrangements. Furthermore, it is essential that local ECs systematically require ancillary care provisions to enhance the well-being and protection of the rights of research participants. This project was funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.

Objetivou-se analisar os achados hematológicos em sangue periférico e medula óssea em cães infectados por Ehrlichia spp. e Anaplasma spp.. Avaliaram-se 44 cães com suspeita clínica de hemoparasitose, de diferentes raças, idades e de ambos os sexos, submetidos ao exame sorológico pelo SNAP Test, a análises hematológicas e mielograma. Dos 44 cães avaliados, 63,6% (28/44) foram sorologicamente reagentes, sendo 57,1% (16/28) positivos para Ehrlichia spp., 21,4% (6/28) para Anaplasma spp. e 21,4% (6/28) de coinfectados. A trombocitopenia foi a alteração hematológica mais frequente em cães positivos para Ehrlichia spp., presente em 93,7% (15/16) (p=0,015) dos animais, enquanto a anemia macrocítica e hipocrômica prevaleceu em 66,7% (4/6) (p=0,010) dos animais infectados por Anaplasma spp.. Ao mielograma, 62,5% (10/16) (p=0,005) dos animais positivos para Ehrlichia spp. apresentaram hipoplasia medular e 75,0% (12/16) (p=0,044) diminuição do índice mieloide:eritroide (M:E). Nos animais positivos para Anaplasma spp., destacou-se a hiperplasia da série eritroide em 50,0% (3/6) (p=0,022) dos cães. Não houve associação significativa em nenhuma das análises com o grupo coinfecção (p>0,05). Os resultados obtidos neste estudo permitem inferir que o somatório de métodos laboratoriais é essencial na caracterização das hemoparasitoses em cães, agregando valor e permitindo uma efetiva consolidação do diagnóstico relacionado a essas doenças. Palavras-chave: análises clínicas, hemoparasitoses, imunodiagnóstico, mielograma.

Abstract Background Breast and cervical cancers constitute the most common cancers among women in sub-Saharan Africa. In Zimbabwe, cervical cancer accounts for more than a third of all cancers among women of African descent. Cancer knowledge levels, attitudes and practices of people in different sections of society should be assessed in order to guide current cancer interventions. This study aimed to assess breast and cervical cancer knowledge, attitudes and practices of women of reproductive age, in Mudzi District, Republic of Zimbabwe. Methods A cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted. A total of 409 survey household questionnaires were administered to women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in 2014. Results A total of 409 respondents were interviewed. Nearly 85% of respondents had heard of cancer. 34.2% did not know of any cervical cancer risk factors and 51% were not familiar with the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Fifty five percent (55%) had not discussed cancer issues with partners in the past 12 months, and only 27.4% had discussed cancer issues with partners at all. Most of the respondents (96.2%) had never undergone cervical cancer screening. The majority of the respondents (70.8%) had never discussed breast cancer issues with community members. About 70% had never discussed cervical cancer issues with community members. Conclusions This study revealed a lack of awareness and comprehensive knowledge about breast and cervical cancer. It also revealed low self-risk perception, low uptake of cancer early detection services and low capacity of the local health institution in offering cancer services. It is recommended that the scaling-up of cancer information, dissemination, and early detection services must be prioritised, including training of local health institutions.

Endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) is a rare and challenging type of endometrial tumor, constituting only about 0.2% of all uterine malignancies and occurring in women 42–58 years of age. ESS is usually misdiagnosed as leiomyoma. They both have nonspecific symptoms, which makes the diagnosis of ESS difficult to achieve. As the ESS is infrequently encountered, optimal management is quite debatable. Here, we report a rare case of a 22-year-old Syrian female who presented with abnormal uterine bleeding; the preoperative diagnosis suggested leiomyoma while histopathological and immunohistochemical studies confirmed the diagnosis of LG-ESS stage IIA. Therefore, the treatment plan was shifted from a conservative myomectomy to a total hysterectomy with both adnexa. The aim of this case report is to draw attention to this uncommon tumor at young age of patients as well as to have awareness of the necessity to suspect this diagnosis especially with the presentation of rapid enlargement of uterine leiomyoma.

Este estudo avaliou a eficiência de cinco protocolos de antissepsia realizados no campo operatório de cadelas devido à importância da prevenção de infecções cirúrgicas na medicina veterinária. Foram utilizadas 40 cadelas submetidas à ovariohisterectomia (OVH) eletiva, separadas em cindo grupos com oito animais. No grupo I foi aplicado álcool 70% e gluconato de clorexidina (CHG) degermante 2%, no grupo II, CHG alcoólico 0,5%, no grupo III polivinilpirrolidona (PVPI) alcóolico 10%, no grupo IV álcool 70% e PVPI alcóolico 10%, e no grupo V, álcool, PVPI 10% e CHG degermante 2%. As amostras foram coletadas com suabes estéreis antes da antissepsia e três minutos após a utilização de cada produto e semeadas em meio específico para contagem de unidade formadoras de colônias (UFC). A identificação dos isolados foi realizada de acordo com as características morfológicas, tintoriais e bioquímicas, tendo sido identificados Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pnemoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Shigella sonnei, Shigella spp., Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter spp., Salmonela spp. e Escherichia coli. Os resultados obtidos permitem concluir que os protocolos em que foram utilizados CHG 0,5% alcoólico e CHG 2% degermante reduziram 100% das UFC da pele e apresentaram melhor poder residual até o término do procedimento cirúrgico.

Objetivou-se, com este estudo, determinar a soroprevalência para a infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino tipo 1 (HVB-1) e vírus da diarreia viral bovina (VDVB-1) e identificar os fatores de risco associados à infecção HVB-1 em vacas leiteiras na bacia leiteira do estado de Pernambuco. Foram analisadas 358 amostras de soro sanguíneo provenientes de vacas leiteiras em idade reprodutiva, não vacinados para os referidos agentes, procedentes de 18 propriedades, distribuídas em seis municípios na microrregião do Vale do Ipanema, Pernambuco. Para o diagnóstico sorológico foi utilizada a técnica de vírusneutralização. A ocorrência de anticorpos anti-HVB-1 em bovinos foi 52,8% (188/356), enquanto que para VDVB-1 foi 99,4% (355/357). Observou-se uma variação da ocorrência de anticorpos, por propriedade, de 5 a 90,9% para HVB-1 e 93,5 a 100% para VDVB-1, destacando-se que 100% das propriedades possuíam ao menos um animal positivo para as duas infecções. Os fatores de risco associados à infecção por HVB-1 foram: compartilhamento de pastos (OR = 2,9; p = 0,004); não utilização de inseminação artificial (OR = 2,3; p < 0,001); não realização de transferência de embriões (OR = 13,6; p < 0,001); aquisição de animais destinados à reprodução (OR = 4,2; p < 0,001); reposição de animais da mesma região (OR = 3,0; p = 0,001) e fetos abortados deixados no pasto (OR= 4,0; p < 0,001). É possível concluir que a infecção por ambos os agentes está distribuída nos bovinos da área do estudo, sendo necessária a implementação de medidas preventivas a partir dos fatores de risco identificados no presente estudo.

Abstract Background Worldwide, the highest malaria mortality is due to Plasmodium falciparum infection. However, other species of Plasmodium (Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi) can also cause malaria. Therefore, accurate identification of malaria species is crucial for patient management and epidemiological surveillance. This study aimed to determine the different Plasmodium species causing malaria in children under 5 years old in two provinces (Kinshasa and North Kivu) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Methods From October to December 2015, a health-facility based cross-sectional study was conducted in General Reference Hospitals in Kinshasa and North Kivu. Four hundred and seven blood samples were collected from febrile children aged ≤ 5 years. Nested polymerase chain reaction assays were performed for Plasmodium species identification. Results Out of 407 children, 142 (34.9%) were infected with Plasmodium spp. and P. falciparum was the most prevalent species (99.2%). Among those infected children, 124 had a mono infection with P. falciparum and one with P. malariae. Mixed infections with P. falciparum/P. malariae and P. falciparum/P. vivax were observed in 6 (1.5%) and 8 (2.0%) children, respectively. The prevalence of infection was higher in females (64.8%) than in males (35.2%), p

Objetivou-se com este trabalho identificar a ocorrência de genes codificadores de enterotoxinas estafilocócicas (sea, seb, sec e seg) e do gene da toxina 1 responsável pela síndrome do choque tóxico (tst) em isolados de Staphylococcus aureus procedentes de casos de mastite bovina, no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram analisados 93 isolados e observou-se a presença de genes toxigênicos em 20 (21,6%) deles, dos quais 11 (55,0%) foram positivos para o gene tst, sete (35,0%) para o gene sec e dois (10,0%) para o gene seg. Dentre os 20 isolados que amplificaram na PCR para presença dos genes sec, seg e tst, 16 (80,0%) foram positivos apenas para um gene e quatro (20,0%) foram positivos para dois genes (sec e tst). Das 17 propriedades de onde as amostras tiveram origem, sete (41,2%) apresentaram amostras positivas para pelo menos um dos genes sec, seg e tst. Este é primeiro registro de ocorrência dos genes codificadores das enterotoxinas SEC e TST-1 em amostras de leite de vacas com mastite no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil.Palavras-chave: Mastite; Patogênese; PCR; Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract Background In 2012, the World Health Organization recommended blocking the transmission of Plasmodium falciparum with single low-dose primaquine (SLDPQ, target dose 0.25 mg base/kg body weight), without testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd), when treating patients with uncomplicated falciparum malaria. We sought to develop an age-based SLDPQ regimen that would be suitable for sub-Saharan Africa. Methods Using data on the anti-infectivity efficacy and tolerability of primaquine (PQ), the epidemiology of anaemia, and the risks of PQ-induced acute haemolytic anaemia (AHA) and clinically significant anaemia (CSA), we prospectively defined therapeutic-dose ranges of 0.15–0.4 mg PQ base/kg for children aged 1–5 years and 0.15–0.5 mg PQ base/kg for individuals aged ≥6 years (therapeutic indices 2.7 and 3.3, respectively). We chose 1.25 mg PQ base for infants aged 6–11 months because they have the highest rate of baseline anaemia and the highest risks of AHA and CSA. We modelled an anthropometric database of 661,979 African individuals aged ≥6 months (549,127 healthy individuals, 28,466 malaria patients and 84,386 individuals with other infections/illnesses) by the Box–Cox transformation power exponential and tested PQ doses of 1–15 mg base, selecting dosing groups based on calculated mg/kg PQ doses. Results From the Box–Cox transformation power exponential model, five age categories were selected: (i) 6–11 months (n = 39,886, 6.03%), (ii) 1–5 years (n = 261,036, 45.46%), (iii) 6–9 years (n = 20,770, 3.14%), (iv) 10–14 years (n = 12,155, 1.84%) and (v) ≥15 years (n = 328,132, 49.57%) to receive 1.25, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 15 mg PQ base for corresponding median (1st and 99th centiles) mg/kg PQ base of: (i) 0.16 (0.12–0.25), (ii) 0.21 (0.13–0.37), (iii) 0.25 (0.16–0.38), (iv) 0.26 (0.15–0.38) and (v) 0.27 (0.17–0.40). The proportions of individuals predicted to receive optimal therapeutic PQ doses were: 73.2 (29,180/39,886), 93.7 (244,537/261,036), 99.6 (20,690/20,770), 99.4 (12,086/12,155) and 99.8% (327,620/328,132), respectively. Conclusions We plan to test the safety of this age-based dosing regimen in a large randomised placebo-controlled trial (ISRCTN11594437) of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in G6PDd African children aged 0.5 − 11 years. If the regimen is safe and demonstrates adequate pharmacokinetics, it should be used to support malaria elimination.

Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a prevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e analisar os fatores de riscos associados à infecção em ovinos no Agreste e Sertão do estado de Pernambuco. Para tal foram utilizadas 14 propriedades de ovinos totalizando 250 animais. Utilizou-se para a pesquisa de anticorpos anti–Toxoplasma gondii a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI), adotando-se ponto de corte de 1:64. No estudo dos fatores de risco foram aplicados questionários com perguntas objetivas sobre os aspectos do manejo higiênico-sanitário. Das 250 amostras analisadas 34 (13,60%, IC 95% - 9,61%; 18,48%) foram positivas; 71,42% (10/14) das propriedades apresentaram ao menos um animal positivo. Em relação à titulação, observou-se que das 34 amostras positivas, oito apresentaram título de 64 (23,53%); três títulos 128 (8,82%); três títulos 256 (8,82%); 13 títulos 512 (38,23%); e sete (20,60%) apresentaram título de 1024. Após regressão logística apenas a variável fornecimento de silagem (p=0,009; OR=2,79 IC 95%=1,29 - 6,0) foi confirmada como fator de risco. Conclui-se que a infecção por Toxoplasma gondii está presente nas criações de ovinos na região estudada, sendo necessário à adoção de medidas preventivas e de controle que atuem nos fatores de risco identificados neste estudo.

RESUMO. de Oliveira J.M.B., Batista Filho A.F.B., Borges J. de M., Soares L.B.F., Ortega-Mora L.M., Brandespim D.F., Mota R.A. & Pinheiro Júnior J.W. Tritrichomonas foetus in bulls in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. [Tritrichomonas foetus em touros no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil.] Revista Brasileira de Medicina Veterinária, 38(4):449-453, 2016. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sanidade e Reprodução de Ruminantes. Unidade Acadêmica de Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Boa Vista, Garanhuns, Pernambuco, 55296-901, Brazil. E-mail: juniormariobaltazar@gmail.com Objetivou-se com este trabalho pesquisar a ocorrência de Tritrichomonas foetus em touros do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. No total foram colhidas 105 amostras de esmegma prepucial de animais em serviço, procedentes de propriedades (n=63) e matadouros (n=42). Para a identificação do agente realizou-se a extração do DNA genômico das amostras e as mesmas foram submetidas à reação em cadeia da polimerase. Observou-se uma frequência de 6,6% (2,7% - 13,2%; I.C. 95%) para T. foetus. Nenhuma amostra de matadouro foi positiva. Em relação ao número de focos, 21,8% (7/32) das propriedades apresentaram animais positivos para T. foetus. Conclui-se que a infecção por T. foetus ocorre em touros na região e que o agente deve ser incluído no diagnóstico de programas de controle de saúde animal. Além disso, o descarte dos touros infectados e reposição por animais jovens devem ser implementadas a fim de evitar a disseminação do agente nos rebanhos

Curd cheese is one of the most traditional foods produced in the Northeast of Brazil, the production is mainly concentrated in the states of Rio Grande do Norte, Ceará, Pernambuco and Paraíba. Although it has great historical and socioeconomic importance, there is a need for further related studies about the quality control of its production, especially with regard to Listeria spp. and Salmonella spp. given the importance of these microorganisms to public health. Thus, this study aimed to investigate Listeria spp. and Salmonella spp. in samples of curd cheese commercialized in establishments in the municipality of Venturosa, Agreste of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Sixty samples of curd cheese were analyzed using the microbiological analysis method according to Normative Instruction nº30/2018, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply (MAPA). No samples were detected for Salmonella spp., however, Listeria grayi was detected in two cheese samples (3.34%), among the analyzed samples. The presence of L. grayi may be associated with hygienicsanitary failures in the stages of obtaining or elaboration of the product. The result obtained in the study reinforces the importance and necessity of the application of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to obtain a final product safe to the consumer.

BackgroundConsiderable upscaling of malaria control efforts have taken place over the last 15 years in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the country with the second highest malaria case load after Nigeria. Malaria control interventions have been strengthened in line with the Millenium Development Goals. We analysed the effects of these interventions on malaria cases at health facility level, using a retrospective trend analysis of malaria cases between 2005 and 2014. Data were collected from outpatient and laboratory registers based on a sample of 175 health facilities that represents all eco-epidemiological malaria settings across the country.MethodsWe applied a time series analysis to assess trends of suspected and confirmed malaria cases, by health province and for different age groups. A linear panel regression model controlled for non-malaria outpatient cases, rain fall, nightlight intensity, health province and time fixed effects, was used to examine the relationship between the interventions and malaria case occurrences, as well as test positivity rates.ResultsOverall, recorded suspected and confirmed malaria cases in the DRC have increased. The sharp increase in confirmed cases from 2010 coincides with the introduction of the new treatment policy and the resulting scale-up of diagnostic testing. Controlling for confounding factors, the introduction of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) was significantly associated with the number of tested and confirmed cases. The test positivity rate fluctuated around 40% without showing any trend.ConclusionThe sharp increase in confirmed malaria cases from 2010 is unlikely to be due to a resurgence of malaria, but is clearly associated with improved diagnostic availability, mainly the introduction of RDTs. Before that, a great part of malaria cases were treated based on clinical suspicion. This finding points to a better detection of cases that potentially contributed to improved case management. Furthermore, the expansion of diagnostic testing along with the increase in confirmed cases implies that before 2010, cases were underreported, and that the accuracy of routine data to describe malaria incidence has improved.

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to investigate contagious agalactia (CA) in flocks from Pernambuco State. The study involved 225 goats and 63 ewes; 288 milk samples and 100 vaginal swabs were collected in total. The PCR assays were carried out using specific primers to Mycoplasma agalactiae and the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Among the goat’s milk samples,12.0% (27/225) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, while 5.3% (12/225) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Of the vaginal swabs taken from goats, 15.4% (12/78) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA and 3.8% (3/78) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. In the case of ewes, 4.3% (1/23) of the milk samples contained Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, and 7.5% (3/40) were positive for the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Vaginal swabs taken from sheep´s were negative. Analysis of risk factors for mycoplasmosis, showed that goats and sheep flocks on the extensive breeding system are more likely to have mycoplasmosis than those on the intensive breeding system (odds ratio (OR) 6.2; p=0.004); meat goat and sheep flocks are more likely to have infection compared to dairy flocks (OR 4.8; p=0.011); unclean animal housing increases the chances of infection (OR 5.0; p=0.031) and not performing quarantine increases the chances of mycoplasmosis (OR 4.6; p=0.042). Based on these findings we conclude that CA syndrome in the semiarid region of Pernambuco state can be associated with Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster.

ABSTRACTCallisthene fasciculata Mart. is a tree belonging to the Vochysiaceae family. Its wood is moderately heavy and resistant and used to make poles, beams, and other structures. The aim of this work was to evaluate seed germination and the initial growth of seedlings of C. fasciculata at different temperatures and in different substrates. Seeds were collected from fruits in the Pantanal de Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. In one experiment, the seeds were subjected to constant temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C and to alternating temperatures of 20-30 and 25-35 °C (on paper substrate). In another experiment, the seeds were subjected to temperatures of 20 and 25 °C on three substrates (sand, vermiculite and between paper) in a germinator. The experiment had a randomized design, with four replicates of 25 seeds per treatment. The F-values obtained for germination indicated no significant effect of substrate or temperature on the final germination percentage. The analyses revealed no effect of a treatment interaction (temperature x substrate) on either germination or average germination time; however, a treatment interaction effect was observed on the germination speed index. The treatment combinations yielding the best performance were between paper substrate at 20 °C and sand substrate at 25 °C. There was a significant effect of the interaction between temperature and substrate on seedling growth, with increased root growth observed in the between paper substrate at 25 °C and increased aerial component growth in both sand at 20 °C and vermiculite at 25 °C. The between paper treatment at 25 °C yielded the greatest final seedling size. Between paper is the most recommended substrate for the production of seedlings due to its ease of handling and lower probability of contamination.

Distemper is caused by a Morbillivirus and has worldwide distribution, the dog being the major reservoir for this virus. Transmission occurs by aerosols and the virus can be excreted at the end of the acute phase. It is a disease with no predilection for race, age or sex; however the literature suggests that puppies are most affected. In this study were analyzed serum samples from pet dogs in the city districts and neighborhoods of Garanhuns Boa Vista, Cohab 1, Cohab 2, Magano and center during the period from August to December 2012. Samples were collected from dogs older than three months, not vaccinated against distemper. To produce the maps of geographical distribution of animals were collected coordinates for each home visit. Of the samples analyzed, 90.38% were positive, and 28.72% had high antibody concentration, 47.88% and 23.40% average concentration or low. By analyzing the distribution by districts observed a higher prevalence of infection in neighborhoods with Cohab 2 100.00% and Cohab 1 with 96.00%; Boa Vista with 93.10%; Magano with 78.26%; center with 50.00%. This study did not identify any variable associated with infection related to sex and 100.0% of the animals, including positive and negative, were not castrated. It was shown that 75.0% of the animals had never been taken to the veterinarian, and of these, 94.8% were positive, a fact that may be related to higher seropositivity in these animals. The results of this study show that the canine distemper virus is widespread in the canine population of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, highlights the importance of epidemiological studies to characterize the real situation of infection by this virus in canine populations, in order to reduce damage to animal health caused by this agent.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to analyze epidemiological aspects and spatial characteristics of Lesptospira spp. infection among sheep in Pernambuco state, Brazil. A total of 426 samples were collected from unvaccinated animals aged 1 year or older, and submitted to Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). To study the risk factors, a standardized investigative survey of sheep farmers, with objective questions, was conducted to establish the general characteristics of the farm property production, reproductive management, and health plan. From 426 samples analyzed, 83 (19.5%; CI 15.9 - 23.6%) were positive; among them, the most prevalent serovar was Autumnalis (32.4%). Significant differences were observed between gender (OR = 0.38; CI 0.14 - 0.99), production system (OR = 2.03; CI 1.07 - 3.84), types of herd (OR = 2.28; CI 1.39 - 3.72), absence of rodents to the grain storage (OR = 0.55; CI 0.34 - 0.91), and restriction to surface waters (OR = 0.60; CI 0.37 - 0.99). Leptospira spp. infection is disseminated in sheep herds, and multiple factors can influence its occurrence. Health education programs and worker training in prevention and control of leptospirosis and other infectious diseases may be useful to reduce infection rates and economic losses caused by this disease.

Objetivou-se com esse estudo realizar um estudo epidemiológico transversal sobre a infecção pelo vírus da Leucose Enzoótica Bovina (LEB) em bovinos leiteiros procedentes de propriedades rurais da microrregião de Garanhuns do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram coletadas 449 amostras sanguíneas em 19 rebanhos leiteiros distribuídos em 15 municípios da microrregião de Garanhuns. As amostras foram submetidas à técnica de imunodifusão em gel de ágar (IDGA) para detecção de anticorpos séricos específicos anti-VLB. Para a identificação dos fatores de risco associados à infecção foi realizada uma análise estatística univariada para aquelas variáveis de interesse através do teste χ2 de Pearson e posteriormente uma análise de regressão logística considerando como variável dependente o exame sorológico (reagente ou não reagente). Das 449 amostras analisadas para infecção pelo VLB, constatou-se uma prevalência de 20,7% (IC 95%; 17,1 - 82,9). Observou-se 63,2% de focos para infecção pelo vírus da LEB. A prevalência da infecção nas propriedades estudadas variou de 0,1% a 77,9%. Na análise de regressão logística observou-se como fator de risco: sistema de criação intensivo (OR 19,1; IC 6,9 – 52,6); realização de exame de palpação (OR 2,1; IC 1,3 - 3,4); manejo dos tratadores (OR 2,8; IC 1,2 – 6,5) e como fator de proteção o controle de mosca (OR 0,2; IC 0,1- 0,4); tratamento térmico do colostro (OR 0,7; IC 0,5 – 0,9); importação de animais para reposição (OR 0,5; IC 0,3 – 0,9). Diante dos resultados obtidos constata-se que a infecção pelo VLB está presente e disseminada na região estudada e que medidas de controle devem ser implementadas com urgência para impedir a propagação do vírus para as demais propriedades da região e outros estados brasileiros.

Em março de 2012 foi diagnosticado um surto de doença reprodutiva em rebanho bovino no Estado da Paraíba, Brasil. Foram examinadas 32 vacas e dois touros da raça Girolando. As vacas apresentaram sinais de doença reprodutiva como repetição de cio, vulvovaginite granular, infertilidade e abortos. As amostras de suabes vaginais e prepuciais foram colhidas e submetidas a isolamento bacteriano e PCR. As reações da PCR para Mollicutes e Ureaplasma spp. foram realizadas com os iniciadores MGSO-GPO3 e UGP'F-UGP'R, respectivamente. Na Nested PCR para Ureaplasma diversum, os iniciadores usados foram UD1, UD2, UD3 e UD4. Para isolamento bacteriano, as amostras foram diluídas de 10-1 até 10-5, semeadas em meio "UB", líquido e placa, sendo incubadas por até 21 dias a 37ºC em jarra de microaerofilia. A frequência de Mollicutes detectada na PCR foi de 65,6% e para Ureaplasma spp. foi de 50,0%, enquanto que para U. diversum foi de 15,6%. No isolamento a frequência de Mollicutes foi de 57,1% e para Ureaplasma spp. foi de 28,6%. No ágar "UB" foi visualizado o crescimento misto de Mycoplasma spp. e Ureaplasma spp. em seis amostras. Foi confirmado o envolvimento de micro-organismos da Classe Mollicutes em surto de doença reprodutiva em vacas no sertão paraibano.

O farelo de arroz, subproduto resultante do beneficiamento para obtenção do arroz polido, corresponde a 8% do arroz em casca. É um produto abundante e de baixo custo, que possui alta concentração de fibras insolúveis, vitaminas e minerais, sendo utilizado principalmente em ração animal e como fertilizante. Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a cor, a composição centesimal e a aceitabilidade de biscoitos elaborados com farelo de arroz extrusado (FAE). Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com um controle e quatro tratamentos (12,5%, 25%, 37,5% e 50% de FAE em substituição à farinha de trigo e fécula de mandioca). Todas as análises foram realizadas conforme métodos validados. A adição gradual de FAE nos biscoitos proporcionou tendência ao escurecimento e à coloração avermelhada/amarelada. O biscoito elaborado com 50% de FAE apresentou maior conteúdo (P = 0,05) de proteínas (7.56 g 100 g-1), fibra alimentar (5.17 g 100 g-1) e cinzas (3.31 g 100 g-1), e menor teor (P = 0,05) de carboidratos (60.78 g 100 g-1) que o biscoito controle, sendo que uma porção de 40g daquele fornece mais do que 10% da recomendação diária de magnésio, fósforo e cobre. Os biscoitos elaborados com FAE foram bem aceitos, não apresentando diferenças (P = 0,05) quanto à aparência, textura e sabor em relação ao tratamento controle. Biscoitos elaborados com até 50% de FAE possuem melhor qualidade nutricional que os biscoitos formulados sem farelo de arroz e são sensorialmente aceitos.Rice bran is a byproduct resulted from the rice milling process. It corresponds to 8% of the total rice grain. It is an abundant and low-cost product which has high concentration of insoluble fiber, vitamins and minerals, and it is mainly applied for animal feeding and soil fertilizing. The aim of this work was to evaluate the color, the proximate composition and acceptability of the cookies formulated with extruded rice bran (ERB). Completely randomized design was applied using one control and four treatments (12.5%, 25%, 37.5% and 50% of EBR in place of wheat flour and cassava starch). All analyses were performed according to standard methods. The gradual addition of EBR to biscuits influenced its darkening and yellow/red color tendency. Cookies with 50% of ERB had higher contents of protein (7.56 g 100 g-1), dietary fiber (5.17 g 100 g-1) and ash (3.31 g 100 g-1) and lower proportion of carbohydrate (60.78 g 100 g-1) than the control. Forty grams of that formulation supplies more than 10% of daily recommended intakes of magnesium, phosphorus and copper. The cookies were well accepted and did not show significant difference (P = 0,05) regarding the appearance, texture and flavor when compared to control. Cookies formulated with 50% of ERB present better nutritional quality than those elaborated without rice bran and have good sensory acceptance.

BackgroundNeurological disorders of infectious origin are common in rural sub-Saharan Africa and usually have serious consequences. Unfortunately, these syndromes are often poorly documented for lack of diagnostic tools. Clinical management of these diseases is a major challenge in under-equipped rural health centers and hospitals. We documented health care provider knowledge, attitudes and practices related to this syndrome in two rural health zones in Bandundu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo.MethodsWe used a qualitative research approach combining observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. We observed 20 patient-provider contacts related to a neurological syndrome, conducted 12 individual interviews and 4 focus group discussions with care providers. All interviews were audiotaped and the transcripts were analyzed with the software ATLAS.ti.ResultsCare providers in this region usually limit their diagnostic work-up to clinical examination primarily because of the financial hurdles in this entirely out-of-pocket payment system. The patients prefer to purchase drugs rather than diagnostic tests. Moreover the general lack of diagnostic tools and the representation of the clinician as a "diviner" do not enhance any use of laboratory or other diagnostic methods.ConclusionInnovation in diagnostic technology for neurological disorders is badly needed in Central-Africa, but its uptake in clinical practice will only be a success if tools are simple, affordable and embedded in a patient-centered approach.

Tractable conservation measures for long-lived species require the intersection between protection of biologically relevant life history stages and a socioeconomically feasible setting. To protect breeding adults, we require knowledge of animal movements, how movement relates to political boundaries, and our confidence in spatial analyses of movement. We used satellite tracking and a switching state-space model to determine the internesting movements of olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) (n = 18) in Central Africa during two breeding seasons (2007-08, 2008-09). These movements were analyzed in relation to current park boundaries and a proposed transboundary park between Gabon and the Republic of Congo, both created to reduce unintentional bycatch of sea turtles in marine fisheries. We additionally determined confidence intervals surrounding home range calculations. Turtles remained largely within a 30 km radius from the original nesting site before departing for distant foraging grounds. Only 44.6 percent of high-density areas were found within the current park but the proposed transboundary park would incorporate 97.6 percent of high-density areas. Though tagged individuals originated in Gabon, turtles were found in Congolese waters during greater than half of the internesting period (53.7 percent), highlighting the need for international cooperation and offering scientific support for a proposed transboundary park. This is the first comprehensive study on the internesting movements of solitary nesting olive ridley sea turtles, and it suggests the opportunity for tractable conservation measures for female nesting olive ridleys at this and other solitary nesting sites around the world. We draw from our results a framework for cost-effective protection of long-lived species using satellite telemetry as a primary tool.

We present a new distribution record of Liophis dorsocorallinus in the state of Acre, Brazil. The species was previously known only from three localities in Venezuela and Brazil.

Abstract Background The influence of feed restriction and different diet's caloric value on the aerobic and anaerobic capacity is unclear in the literature. Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine the possible influences of two diets with different caloric values and the influence of feed restriction on the aerobic (anaerobic threshold: AT) and anaerobic (time to exhaustion: Tlim) variables measured by a lactate minimum test (LM) in rats. Methods We used 40 adult Wistar rats. The animals were divided into four groups: ad libitum commercial Purina® diet (3028.0 Kcal/kg) (ALP), restricted commercial Purina® diet (RAP), ad libitum semi-purified AIN-93 diet (3802.7 Kcal/kg) (ALD) and restricted semi-purified AIN-93 diet (RAD). The animals performed LM at the end of the experiment, 48 h before euthanasia. Comparisons between groups were performed by analysis of variance (p < 0,05). Results At the end of the experiment, the weights of the rats in the groups with the restricted diets were significantly lower than those in the groups with ad libitum diet intakes. In addition, the ALD group had higher amounts of adipose tissue. With respect to energetic substrates, the groups subjected to diet restriction had significantly higher levels of liver and muscle glycogen. There were no differences between the groups with respect to AT; however, the ALD group had lower lactatemia at the AT intensity and higher Tlim than the other groups. Conclusions We conclude that dietary restriction induces changes in energetic substrates and that ad libitum intake of a semi-purified AIN-93 diet results in an increase in adipose tissue, likely reducing the density of the animals in water and favouring their performance during the swimming exercises.

O farelo de arroz, subproduto resultante do beneficiamento para obtenção do arroz polido, corresponde a 8% do arroz em casca. É um produto abundante e de baixo custo, que possui alta concentração de fibras insolúveis, vitaminas e minerais, sendo utilizado principalmente em ração animal e como fertilizante. Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a cor, a composição centesimal e a aceitabilidade de biscoitos elaborados com farelo de arroz extrusado (FAE). Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com um controle e quatro tratamentos (12,5%, 25%, 37,5% e 50% de FAE em substituição à farinha de trigo e fécula de mandioca). Todas as análises foram realizadas conforme métodos validados. A adição gradual de FAE nos biscoitos proporcionou tendência ao escurecimento e à coloração avermelhada/amarelada. O biscoito elaborado com 50% de FAE apresentou maior conteúdo (P = 0,05) de proteínas (7.56 g 100 g-1), fibra alimentar (5.17 g 100 g-1) e cinzas (3.31 g 100 g-1), e menor teor (P = 0,05) de carboidratos (60.78 g 100 g-1) que o biscoito controle, sendo que uma porção de 40g daquele fornece mais do que 10% da recomendação diária de magnésio, fósforo e cobre. Os biscoitos elaborados com FAE foram bem aceitos, não apresentando diferenças (P = 0,05) quanto à aparência, textura e sabor em relação ao tratamento controle. Biscoitos elaborados com até 50% de FAE possuem melhor qualidade nutricional que os biscoitos formulados sem farelo de arroz e são sensorialmente aceitos.

Plasmodium vivax, a challenging species to eliminate, causes millions of malaria cases globally annually. Developing an effective vaccine is crucial in the fight against vivax malaria, but considering the limited number of studies focusing on the identification and development of P. vivax-specific vaccine candidates, exploring new antigens is an urgent need. The merozoite protein CyRPA is essential for P. falciparum growth and erythrocyte invasion and corresponds to a promising candidate antigen. In P. vivax, a single study with multiple vaccine candidates indicates PvCyRPA with strong association with protection, outperforming classic malaria vaccine candidates. However, little is known about the specific naturally acquired response in the Americas, as well as the antigen epitope mapping. For this reason, we aimed to investigate the cellular and humoral immune response elicited against PvCyRPA in Brazilian endemic areas to identify the existence of immunodominant regions and the potential of this protein as a single or even a multi-stage specific malaria vaccine candidate for P. vivax. The results demonstrated that PvCyRPA is naturally immunogenic in Brazilian Amazon individuals previously exposed to malaria, which presented anti-PvCyRPA cytophilic antibodies. Moreover, our data show that the protein also possesses important immunogenic regions with an overlap of B and T cell epitopes. These data reinforce the possibility of including PvCyRPA in vaccine formulations for P. vivax., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective: This study aimed to assess associations between chronotype and obesity-related indicators in a sample of Spanish adolescents., Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from The Eating Healthy and Daily Life Activities (EHDLA) Study, which included a representative sample of adolescents from Spain. A total of 820 adolescents (54.7% girls) aged 12-17 years were included in the analyses. The adolescents' chronotype was determined using the Morningness/Eveningness Scale in Children. Obesity-related indicators included body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, triceps and medial calf skinfolds, sum of skinfolds, and body fat percentage. Generalized linear models were used to examine the relationship between the Morningness-Eveningness score and chronotype status and the above-mentioned obesity-related indicators in adolescents. All analyses were adjusted for sex, age, socioeconomic status, sleep duration, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and energy intake., Results: The morningness chronotype was associated with higher abdominal obesity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12 to 2.50; p = 0.001), waist-to-height ratio (unstandardized beta coefficient [B] = 0.01, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.05; p = 0.029) and skinfold calves (B = 1.04 95% CI 0.24 to 1.94; p = 0.011), compared with the intermediate chronotype., Conclusion: Adolescents with a morningness chronotype may be more prone to abdominal obesity than their counterparts with an intermediate chronotype. Effective intervention-related approaches can be applied to those with a morningness chronotype., (© 2024 The Author(s). Pediatric Obesity published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of World Obesity Federation.)

Malaria represents a challenging global public health task, with Plasmodium vivax being the predominant parasite in Brazil and the most widely distributed species throughout the world. Developing a vaccine against P. vivax malaria demands innovative strategies, and targeting gametocyte antigens shows promise for blocking transmission prevention. Among these antigens, Pvs47, expressed in gametocytes, has shown remarkable efficacy in transmission blocking. However, remains underexplored in vaccine formulations. This study employed in silico methods to comprehensively characterize the physicochemical properties, structural attributes, epitope presence, and conservation profile of Pvs47. Additionally, we assessed its antigenicity in individuals exposed to malaria in endemic Brazilian regions. Recombinant protein expression occurred in a eukaryotic system, and antigenicity was evaluated using immunoenzymatic assays. The responses of naturally acquired IgM, total IgG, and IgG subclasses were analyzed in three groups of samples from Amazon region. Notably, all samples exhibited anti-Pvs47 IgM and IgG antibodies, with IgG3 predominating. Asymptomatic patients demonstrated stronger IgG responses and more diverse subclass responses. Anti-Pvs47 IgM and IgG responses in symptomatic individuals decrease over time. Furthermore, we observed a negative correlation between anti-Pvs47 IgM response and gametocytemia in samples of symptomatic patients, indicating a gametocyte-specific response. Additionally, negative correlation was observed among anti-Pvs47 antibody response and hematocrit levels. Furthermore, comparative analysis with widely characterized blood antigens, PvAMA1 and PvMSP1 19 , revealed that Pvs47 was equally or more recognized than both proteins. In addition, there is positive correlation between P. vivax blood asexual and sexual stage immune responses. In summary, our study unveils a significant prevalence of anti-Pvs47 antibodies in diverse Amazonian samples and the importance of IgM response for gametocytes depuration. These findings regarding the in silico characterization and antigenicity of Pvs47 provide crucial insights for potential integration into P. vivax vaccine formulations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Soares da Veiga, Donassolo, Forcellini, Ferraboli, Kujbida Junior, Nisimura, Bassai, Kessler, Serpeloni, Bittencourt, Salazar, Guimarães, Louzada, Barros, Lopes, Carvalho, Nóbrega de Sousa, Kano, Costa, Fanini Wowk and Albrecht.)

Introduction: An ideal orthodontic treatment involves qualitative and quantitative measurements of dental and skeletal components to evaluate patients' discrepancies, such as facial, occlusal, and functional characteristics. Deciding between orthodontics and orthognathic surgery remains challenging, especially in borderline patients. Advances in technology are aiding clinical decisions in orthodontics. The increasing availability of data and the era of big data enable the use of artificial intelligence to guide clinicians' diagnoses. This study aims to test the capacity of different machine learning (ML) models to predict whether orthognathic surgery or orthodontics treatment is required, using soft and hard tissue cephalometric values., Methods: A total of 920 lateral radiographs from patients previously treated with either conventional orthodontics or in combination with orthognathic surgery were used, comprising n = 558 Class II and n = 362 Class III patients, respectively. Thirty-two measures were obtained from each cephalogram at the initial appointment. The subjects were randomly divided into training (n = 552), validation (n = 183), and test (n = 185) datasets, both as an entire sample and divided into Class II and Class III sub-groups. The extracted data were evaluated using 10 machine learning models and by a four-expert panel consisting of orthodontists (n = 2) and surgeons (n = 2)., Results: The combined prediction of 10 models showed top-ranked performance in the testing dataset for accuracy, F1-score, and AUC (entire sample: 0.707, 0.706, 0.791; Class II: 0.759, 0.758, 0.824; Class III: 0.822, 0.807, 0.89)., Conclusions: The proposed combined 10 ML approach model accurately predicted the need for orthognathic surgery, showing better performance in Class III patients., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

We examined associations between nighttime sleep and midday nap duration with all-cause mortality according to adherence to moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) recommendations in older adults. We used data from 3518 and 3273 older adults recruited in the Seniors-ENRICA-1 and 2 cohorts, respectively. Nighttime sleep time was classified as short (< 7 h), middle (≥ 7 and < 8 h), and long (≥ 8 h), and midday napping as no nap, short (≤ 30 min), long (> 30 and ≤ 60 min), and very long (> 60 min). Time spent in MVPA was classified as meeting (i.e., ≥ 150 min/week) or not the MVPA recommendations. All-cause mortality was the main outcome. Analyses were performed with Cox regression and adjusted for the main confounders. Overall, compared with middle nighttime sleep, both short (HR 1.20; 95% CI 1.03-1.39) and long (HR 1.30; 95% CI 1.12-1.52) were associated with higher mortality. Among participants who did not meet MVPA recommendations, the association between short (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.01-1.48) and long (HR 1.46; 95% CI 1.21-1.77) sleeping duration mortality remained. Short napping was associated with lower mortality (HR 0.83; 95% CI 0.71-0.96) and very long with higher mortality (HR 1.29; 95% CI 1.04-1.59), compared to those who did not nap. Among participants not meeting MVPA recommendations, only very long napping was associated with increased mortality (HR 1.32; 95% CI 1.01-1.73). No associations were identified between nighttime sleep or midday napping with mortality among participants meeting MVPA recommendations. Meeting MVPA recommendations can attenuate the risks associated with short or long sleep duration., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to American Aging Association.)

The shortfin mako shark ( Isurus oxyrinchus ) is a large pelagic predator that inhabits coastal and ocean waters. It has several teeth arranged in rows that run from the rostral to the lingual face. These teeth are in several stages of maturation, where the teeth closest to the rostral face are more mature and functional and the teeth closest to the lingual face are still in development. The tooth supply of the shark is unlimited throughout its life. The mechanism of tooth replacement follows that, when the front teeth are discarded physiologically, the posterior teeth replace it. This study us used a head and dental arch of I. oxyrinchus. Intraoral radiographs were obtained with the aim to show details of the pulp cavity. The study concluded that the pulp diameter varies according to the stage of dental maturation., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a genetic disease characterized by poor formation of tooth enamel. AI occurs due to mutations, especially in AMEL, ENAM, KLK4, MMP20, and FAM83H, associated with changes in matrix proteins, matrix proteases, cell-matrix adhesion proteins, and transport proteins of enamel. Due to the wide variety of phenotypes, the diagnosis of AI is complex, requiring a genetic test to characterize it better. Thus, there is a demand for developing low-cost, noninvasive, and accurate platforms for AI diagnostics. This case-control pilot study aimed to test salivary vibrational modes obtained in attenuated total reflection fourier-transformed infrared (ATR-FTIR) together with machine learning algorithms: linear discriminant analysis (LDA), random forest, and support vector machine (SVM) could be used to discriminate AI from control subjects due to changes in salivary components. The best-performing SVM algorithm discriminates AI better than matched-control subjects with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 79%, and accuracy of 88%. The five main vibrational modes with higher feature importance in the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) were 1010 cm -1 , 1013 cm -1 , 1002 cm -1 , 1004 cm -1 , and 1011 cm -1 in these best-performing SVM algorithms, suggesting these vibrational modes as a pre-validated salivary infrared spectral area as a potential biomarker for AI screening. In summary, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and machine learning algorithms can be used on saliva samples to discriminate AI and are further explored as a screening tool.

Introducing legumes into C4-dominated tropical pastures, may enhance their sustainability but has some pasture management constraints. One potential alternative is using arboreal legumes, but several of these species have relatively high condensed tannin (CT) concentrations, which negatively impact forage quality. There is limited knowledge, however, on how arboreal legume leaf CT content varies over the year and how this might impact forage quality. The objective of this 2 year study was to assess the seasonal variation of CT and nutritive value for ruminants of the tropical tree legumes gliricidia [Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth ex. Walp.] and mimosa (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth). The research was carried out in the sub-humid tropical region of Brazil on well-established pastures in which either legume was present with signalgrass (Urochloa decumbens Stapf.). We determined CT and nitrogen concentrations, in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM), and leaf δ13C and δ15N from January to October of 2017 and 2018. All parameters were affected (P < 0.05) by the interaction between legume species and sampling time, with generally higher leaf CT content for mimosa than gliricidia, and both were reduced at the start of the dry season, although much more drastically for mimosa. The IVDOM was strongly affected by CT content and increased at the start of the dry season, coincidentally when C4 grass forage quality typically decreased. There is a marked species effect, with CT from gliricidia impacting IVDOM more than the same CT content from mimosa. While N concentration from mimosa also increased at the start of the dry season, that for gliricidia did not vary over the year. We conclude that although these arboreal legumes have relatively high CT contents, these reduce during the dry season when CT concentrations coinciding with a reduced forage quality as the protein content for C4 grasses is usually inadequate in this season., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Given the increasing prevalence of obesity in young people in Ecuador, there is a need to understand the factors associated with this condition. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of obesity in Ecuadorian children and adolescents aged 5-17 years and identify its associated sociodemographic and lifestyle factors., Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (ENSANUT-2018). The final sample consisted of 11,980 participants who provided full information on the variables of interest., Results: The prevalence of obesity was 12.7%. A lower odd of having obesity was observed for adolescents; for those with a breadwinner with an educational level in middle/high school or higher; for each additional day with 60 or more minutes of daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity; and for those with greater daily vegetable consumption (one, two, or three or more servings). Conversely, there were greater odds of obesity in participants from families with medium, poor, and very poor wealth and those from the coast and insular region., Conclusions: The high prevalence of obesity in Ecuadorian children and adolescents is a public health concern. Sociodemographic and lifestyle behavior differences in young people with obesity should be considered when developing specific interventions., Impact: As the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents increases in Latin America, with a particular focus on Ecuador, it becomes crucial to delve into the factors linked to this condition and identify the most successful strategies for its mitigation. The elevated prevalence of obesity among young individuals in Ecuador raises significant public health concerns. To develop targeted interventions, it is crucial to account for sociodemographic variables and lifestyle behaviors that contribute to obesity in this population., (© 2024. The Author(s).)