Aedes aegypti salivary gland extract alleviates acute itching by blocking TRPA1 channels.

Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti) saliva induces a variety of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Interestingly, although it is known that mosquito bites cause allergic reactions in sensitised hosts, the primary exposure of humans to Ae. aegypti does not evoke significant itching. Whether active components in the saliva of Ae. aegypti can counteract the normal itch reaction to injury produced by a histaminergic or non-histaminergic pathway in vertebrate hosts is unknown. This study investigated the effects of Ae. aegypti mosquito salivary gland extract (SGE) on sensitive reactions such as itching and associated skin inflammation. Acute pruritus and plasma extravasation were induced in mice by the intradermal injection of either compound 48/80 (C48/80), the Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor (Mrgpr) agonist chloroquine (CQ), or the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) agonist allyl isothiocyanate (AITC). The i.d. co-injection of Ae. aegypti SGE inhibited itching, plasma extravasation, and neutrophil influx evoked by C48/80, but it did not significantly affect mast cell degranulation in situ or in vitro. Additionally, SGE partially reduced CQ- and AITC-induced pruritus in vivo, suggesting that SGE affects pruriceptive nerve firing independently of the histaminergic pathway. Activation of TRPA1 significantly increased intracellular Ca2+ in TRPA-1-transfected HEK293t lineage, which was attenuated by SGE addition. We showed for the first time that Ae. aegypti SGE exerts anti-pruriceptive effects, which are partially regulated by the histamine-independent itch TRPA1 pathway. Thus, SGE may possess bioactive molecules with therapeutic potential for treating nonhistaminergic itch.

Enhanced efficacy of formoterol-montelukast salt in relieving asthma features and in preserving ß2-agonists rescue therapy.

Adrenergic ß2-agonists represent a mainstay in asthma management. Their chronic use has been associated with decreased bronchoprotection and rebound hyperresponsiveness. Here we investigate on the possible therapeutic advantage of a pharmacological association of ß2-agonists with montelukast, a highly selective leukotriene receptor antagonist, in modulating bronchial reactivity and controlling asthma features. The study has been conducted in vitro and in vivo and also takes advantage of the synthesis of a salt that gave us the possibility to simultaneously administer in vivo formoterol and montelukast (MFS). In vitro studies demonstrate that montelukast (1) preserves ß2-agonist response in isolated bronchi by preventing homologous ß2-adrenoceptor desensitization; (2) reduces desensitization by modulating ß2-receptor translocation in bronchial epithelial cells. In vivo studies demonstrate that sensitized mice receiving formoterol or montelukast display a significant reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness, but the ß2-agonist relaxing response is still impaired. Allergen challenge causes ß2 heterologous desensitization that is further increased by treatment in vivo with formoterol. Conversely MFS not only inhibits airway hyperresponsiveness but it rescues the ß2-agonist response. Histological analysis confirms the functional data, demonstrating an enhanced therapeutic efficiency of MSF in controlling also pulmonary metaplasia and lung inflammation. MFS is efficacious also when sensitized mice received the drug by local administration. In conclusion, the data obtained evidenced a therapeutic advantage in the association of ß2-agonists with montelukast in the control of asthma-like features and a better rescue bronchodilation response to ß2-agonists.

Leukotriene receptor antagonist reduces inflammation and alveolar bone loss in a rat model of experimental periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Leukotrienes (LTs) participate in the process of tissue damage in periodontal disease by leukocyte chemotaxis and osteoclastic activation. The activation of Cysteinyl-LT receptor is associated with increased expression of proinflammatory molecules and osteoclastogenesis. However, its implications on periodontal disease progression have not been studied. The present study evaluated the effect of the cysteinyl-LT receptor antagonist (montelukast [MT]) on ligature-induced experimental periodontitis (EP) in rats. METHODS: Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to bilateral ligature-induced periodontitis and orally treated with MT (at doses of 10 or 30 mg/kg/d, MT10, and MT30, respectively). Sham animals had the ligatures immediately removed and received placebo treatment. Sets of animals were euthanized 7, 14, or 21 days after ligature placement and the mandibles were removed for macroscopic evaluation of alveolar bone loss (ABL). In addition, histological analysis of periodontal tissues, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of gingival tissues, and periodontal tissue expression of collagen type I, RUNX2, RANK, RANKL, OPG, BLT1, Cys-LTR1, LTA4H, and LTC4S were also analyzed. RESULTS: MT significantly reduced ABL at 14 (MT10 and MT30) and 21 days (MT10) (P < 0.05), gingival MPO at 7 (MT10) and 14 days (MT30) (P < 0.05), LTA4H, BLT1 and LTC4S gene expression on day 14 day (MT30, P < 0.05) and increased RUNX2 expression on day 14 (MT30, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Systemic therapy with MT decreases periodontal inflammation and ABL in ligature-induced periodontitis in rats.

Uncaria tomentosa improves insulin sensitivity and inflammation in experimental NAFLD.

We investigated the effect of the crude herbal extract from Uncaria tomentosa (UT) on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in two models of obesity: high fat diet (HFD) and genetically obese (ob/ob) mice. Both obese mouse models were insulin resistant and exhibited an abundance of lipid droplets in the hepatocytes and inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver, while only the HFD group had collagen deposition in the perivascular space of the liver. UT treatment significantly reduced liver steatosis and inflammation in both obese mouse models. Furthermore, serine phosphorylation of IRS-1 was reduced by 25% in the HFD mice treated with UT. Overall, UT treated animals exhibited higher insulin sensitivity as compared to vehicle administration. In conclusion, Uncaria tomentosa extract improved glucose homeostasis and reverted NAFLD to a benign hepatic steatosis condition and these effects were associated with the attenuation of liver inflammation in obese mice.

Prevalência de sífilis em mulheres do sistema prisional de uma capital do nordeste brasileiro / Syphilis prevalence among women in the prison system of a northeastern Brazilian capital

Esta pesquisa objetivou investigar a prevalência de sífilis e fatores associados em internas na penitenciária feminina de Teresina-PI, Brasil. Estudo de corte transversal, realizado em novembro de 2013. A população foi constituída pelas internas da referida penitenciária (n=131). Os dados foram coletados por meio de um formulário contendo questões fechadas e mistas. A média de idade foi 33,1 anos, 60,3% afirmaram não manter relacionamento estável e 93,1% possuíam filhos. O consumo de álcool foi referido por 70,8%, e o uso de drogas ilícitas por 56,2%. Evidenciou-se que 38,5% das mulheres nunca utilizam camisinha nas relações sexuais e que 62,2% não sabem como se dá a transmissão da sífilis. A alta prevalência da sífilis, 25,2%, está estatisticamente associada à situação conjugal, uso de drogas ilícitas e consumo antes das relações sexuais, demonstrando que condições socioeconômicas desfavoráveis são importantes marcadores de risco e de vulnerabilidade para as DST.

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of syphilis and associated factors in inmates of the women's prison of Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. This cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2013. The population consisted of inmates from the referred penitentiary (n=131). Data were collected through a form composed of closed-ended and mixed questions. The mean age was 33.1 years, 60.3% affirmed not having a stable relationship, and 93.1% had children. Alcohol use was reported by 70.8%, and the use of illicit drugs, by 56.2%. It was evidenced that 38.5% of women never use a condom during sexual intercourse, and that 62.2% do not know how the transmission of syphilis happens. The high prevalence of syphilis, 25.2%, is statistically associated with marital status, illicit drug use and their consumption before sex, demonstrating that unfavorable socioeconomic conditions are important risk and vulnerability factors to sexually transmitted diseases.

Aspectos jurídicos da jornada de trabalho em enfermagem: reflexão teórica / Legal aspects of work shift in nursing: theoretical reflection

Objetivo: perquirir acerca da regulamentação das relações de trabalho na enfermagem e refletir sobre os aspectos jurídicos de sua jornada de trabalho. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo reflexivo, que analisou as relações de trabalho da equipe de enfermagem com foco em sua jornada de trabalho, com um olhar direcionado aos aspectos jurídicos que envolvem a temática. Resultados: a equipe de enfermagem não dispõe de proteção legal específica acerca de sua jornada de trabalho, apesar de desenvolver um trabalho essencial à vida e de estar presente na quase totalidade das instituições de saúde. A população tem direito de ser atendida por profissionais competentes e saudáveis, tendo em vista que a assistência segura e de qualidade, além de moralmente requerida, é mais econômica, pois evita danos e reduz ações judiciais contra os serviços de saúde. Para tanto surge a discussão sobre o Projeto de Lei 2.295/2000, que defende carga horária de 30 horas semanais, refletindo uma conquista histórica da classe de enfermagem, que se fundamenta em aspectos biológicos, sociais e econômicos. Conclusão: a redução da jornada de trabalho permite a prestação de uma assistência mais segura e representa nada mais que a concretização do arcabouço jurídico protecionista vigente.

Objective: to assert concerning the regulation of labor relations in nursing and to reflect on the legal aspects of working in nursing. Methodology: this is a reflective study that examined the working relationships of the nursing staff to focus on its workday with targeted legal aspects involving the theme. Results: the nursing staff has no specific legal protection about its workday, while developing essential work to life and to be present in almost all health institutions. The population is entitled to be served by healthy and competent professionals, in order that safe and quality care, and morally required, it is more economical because it prevents damage and reduces lawsuits against health services. For this discussion on the Draft Law 2295 /2000, which advocates a workload of 30 hours per week, reflecting a historic conquest of the nursing class, which it is based on biological, social and economic aspects. Conclusion: the reduction in working hours allows the provision of a safer care and represents nothing more than the realization of the current protectionist legal framework.

Assistência de enfermagem na saúde sexual e reprodutiva de mulheres reclusas: relato de experiência / Nursing care in sexual and reproductive health of prisoner women: experience report

Objetivo: relatar a experiência de acadêmicos de enfermagem quanto à assistência prestada, na área da saúde reprodutiva e sexual, a mulheres reclusas. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo descritivo do tipo relato de experiência sobre a vivência de acadêmicos de enfermagem no projeto de extensão “Assistência de Enfermagem: Contribuições na saúde reprodutiva de detentas de uma penitenciária feminina de Teresina”,nos meses de março a dezembro de 2013. Resultados: a assistência de saúde em presídios brasileiros ainda é deficiente, no entanto apesar das limitações pode-se realizar atividades qualificadas visando uma assistência de enfermagem eficaz, pois apesar dos obstáculos, cabe ao enfermeiro e a equipe de saúde trabalhar no desenvolvimento de estratégias para o enfrentamento de dificuldades, por meio da otimização dos recursos disponíveis. Conclusão: a experiência mostrou que a assistência de enfermagem integral à saúde de mulheres reclusas, no contexto da saúde sexual e reprodutiva, é essencial, principalmente porque essas mulheres constituem uma população vulnerável ao desenvolvimento de diversas enfermidades.

Objective: reporting the experience of nursing academics as the assistance provided in the area of reproductive and sexual health to prisoner women. Methodology: this is a descriptive study of type case studies about the experience of nursing students in extension project "Nursing care: contributions on reproductive health of in mate women of a penitentiary in Teresina", in the months from march to december 2013. Results: health assistance in Brazilian prisons is still deficient, however, despite the limitations, it canbe performed activities aiming at an effective nursing care, because despite the obstacles, it is due to the nurse and to the health team working on the development of strategies for coping with difficulties, by optimizing available resources. Conclusion: experience has shown that the full nursing care to prisoner women’s health, in the context of sexual and reproductive health is essential, mainly because these women constitute a vulnerable population to the development of various diseases.

H2S-releasing drugs: anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective and chemopreventative potential.

Hydrogen sulfide exerts a number of cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in many organ systems. In an effort to exploit these potent and beneficial effects, a number of hydrogen sulfide-releasing derivatives of existing drugs have been developed and extensively tested in pre-clinical models. In particular, efforts have been made by several groups to develop hydrogen sulfide-releasing derivatives of a number of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The main goal of this approach is to reduce the gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding caused by this class of drugs, particularly when used chronically such as in the treatment of arthritis. However, these drugs may also have utility for prevention of various types of cancer. This paper provides an overview of some of the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective actions of hydrogen sulfide. It also gives some examples of hydrogen sulfide-releasing anti-inflammatory drugs, and their actions in terms of reducing inflammation and attenuating the development of cancer in experimental models.

Riscos ocupacionais e problemas de saúde de trabalhadores de enfermagem que atuam em setores dequimioterapia / Occupational risks and health problems of the nursing staff working in chemotherapy sectors

Objetivo: Identificar os riscos ocupacionais e os problemas de saúde percebidos pela equipe de enfermagem em quimioterapia. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa,desenvolvido num hospital de grande porte localizado em Teresina. Utilizou-se um questionário semi-estruturado, formado pelas secções 1, 3 e 4 dos questionários dos Guias de Avaliação de riscos nos lugares de trabalho em indústria, criados por Boix e Vogel e adaptado em 2006. O estudo foi realizado com 36 trabalhadores de enfermagem que atuavam em setores de quimioterapia nos meses de janeiro a fevereiro de 2012. Resultados: Sabe-se que o risco ocupacional provoca efeitos adversos à saúde do trabalhador. Dentre osfatores de risco evidenciados destacam-se: risco de contato com substância química (77,7%), esforço físico que produz fadiga (72,2%) e ritmo de trabalho acelerado (71,4%). Evidenciam-se entre os problemas de saúde varizes (61,1%), lombalgias (50%) e estresse/depressão (27,8%). Conclusão: A manipulação de quimioterápicos antineoplásicos oferece riscos à saúde do trabalhador de Enfermagem, devendo-se assim atentar para sua identificação, detecção e controle.

Objective: To identify occupational hazards and health problems perceived by nursing staff in chemotherapy. Methodology: This is an exploratory study with a quantitative approach, developed in a large hospital in Teresina. The study was conducted with 36 nursing staff who work in sectors of chemotherapy in the months from January to February of 2012. Results: It is known that the occupational hazard causes adverse health effects of the worker. Among the factors identified in this risk include: risk of contact with chemical, physicalexertion that produces fatigue and accelerated pace of work. Became evident between health problemsvaricose veins, back pain and stress/depression. Conclusion: The handling of anti-neoplastic chemotherapy offers health risks of nursing worker, so one should pay attention to their identification, detection and control. For both professionals involved in the care of the patient who is under going chemotherapy should beproperly informed, trained and supervised in the performance of personal protection required.