Use of the Screening for Occult Renal Disease (SCORED) Questionnaire to Screen Diabetic Nephropathy in Asymptomatic Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: The 2007 Screening for Occult Renal Disease (SCORED) questionnaire accesses risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and makes it possible to screen high-risk patients, being adapted and validated for the Brazilian culture in 2012. The present study evaluated the questionnaire's ability to predict the occurrence of CKD in asymptomatic patients, as well as identify a high risk for developing the disease. METHODS: This was an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design carried out in two stages: answering the SCORED and performing fasting blood glucose and creatinine tests. The participants were patients at the Hospital das Clínicas of the Federal University of Minas Gerais (HC-UFMG) with scheduled creatinine and fasting blood glucose tests, respecting the inclusion and exclusion criteria defined for the study. SCORED was applied with questions covering gender, age, proteinuria, and diabetes, being classified as high or low risk for CKD. The data collected were height, weight, age, sex, diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, and fasting blood glucose. RESULTS: The sample space was 212 individuals, the majority of whom were female (N=130, 61.3%), with a median of 58 years of age. The prevalence of CKD was 15.6% (N=33) with a sensitivity of 90.9%, a specificity of 30.2%, a positive predictive value of 19.4%, a negative predictive value of 94.7%, and a diagnostic accuracy of 39.7%. CONCLUSION: We concluded that the SCORED questionnaire can be a useful tool for screening CKD in asymptomatic patients and also that there is a relationship was detected between glycemic changes and an increased risk for CKD.

The impact of a breast cancer diagnosis on marital outcomes and factors associated with divorce and separation.

Objective: To analyze marital outcomes, divorce or separation, and its association with demographic, socioeconomic, and clinicopathological factors among breast cancer (BC) survivors after 2-years of diagnosis. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of marital status at baseline and at years 1 and 2 of follow-up of women aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with invasive BC participating in the AMAZONA III (GBECAM0115) study. The BC diagnosis occurred between January 2016 and March 2018 at 23 institutions in Brazil. Results: Of the 2974 women enrolled in AMAZONA III, 599 were married or living under common law at baseline. Divorce or separation occurred in 35 (5.8%) patients at 2 years of follow-up. In the multivariate analysis, public health insurance coverage was associated with a higher risk of marital status change (8.25% vs. 2.79%, RR 3.09, 95% CI 1.39 - 7.03, p = 0.007). Women who underwent mastectomy, adenomastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy were associated with a higher risk of divorce or separation (8.1% vs. 4.49%, RR 1.97, 95 CI 1.04 - 3.72, p = 0.0366) than those who underwent breast-conserving surgery. Conclusion: Women covered by the public health system and those who underwent mastectomy, adenomastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy were associated with a higher risk of divorce or separation. This evidence further supports the idea that long-term marital stability is associated with a complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions and stressors, such as BC diagnosis and treatment. ClinicalTrials Registration: NCT02663973.

Parental executive functions and motivations unveil variations in young children's screen media use.

BACKGROUND: The increased screen media use among children aged 3 to 5, particularly in the post-COVID era, is concerning. Despite several organizations' recommendation of a one-hour screen limit for young children, actual usage often exceeds this guideline. OBJECTIVE: This study explored the influence of parental characteristics such as self-efficacy, motivation, socioeconomic status, and cognitive abilities on children's screen time habits. METHODS: Employing a feature selection model, 251 caregivers answered an online survey, presenting data from themselves and on-screen usage for 126 girls and 125 boys. We found that the caregiver's executive functions, including cognitive flexibility, initiation, task monitoring, and material organization, significantly impact children's screen time. RESULTS: Our analysis highlighted the vital role of caregivers' self-efficacy in moderating children's screen usage. Family net income, children's age and gender, and motivations related to children's desires and behavioral control were also significant contributors to usage patterns. CONCLUSION: This study offers insights into interventions and effective parenting strategies in the digital age, highlighting the importance of addressing socio-demographic factors in understanding this complex issue.

Histone 3 Trimethylation Patterns are Associated with Resilience or Stress Susceptibility in a Rat Model of Major Depression Disorder.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe and multifactorial psychiatric condition. Evidence has shown that environmental factors, such as stress, significantly explain MDD pathophysiology. Studies have hypothesized that changes in histone methylation patterns are involved in impaired glutamatergic signaling. Based on this scenario, this study aims to investigate histone 3 involvement in depression susceptibility or resilience in MDD pathophysiology by investigating cellular and molecular parameters related to i) glutamatergic neurotransmission, ii) astrocytic functioning, and iii) neurogenesis. For this, we subjected male Wistar rats to the Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) model of depression. We propose that by evaluating the sucrose consumption, open field, and object recognition test performance from animals submitted to CUMS, it is possible to predict with high specificity rats with susceptibility to depressive-like phenotype and resilient to the depressive-like phenotype. We also demonstrated, for the first time, that patterns of H3K4me3, H3K9me3, H3K27me3, and H3K36me3 trimethylation are strictly associated with the resilient or susceptible to depressive-like phenotype in a brain-region-specific manner. Additionally, susceptible animals have reduced DCx and GFAP and resilient animals present increase of AQP-4 immunoreactivity. Together, these results provide evidence that H3 trimethylations are related to the development of the resilient or susceptible to depressive-like phenotype, contributing to further advances in the pathophysiology of MDD and the discovery of mechanisms behind resilience.

CUR(E)ating a new approach to study fungal effectors and enhance undergraduate education through authentic research.

Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) integrate active, discovery-based learning into undergraduate curricula, adding tremendous value to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) education. There are multiple challenges in transforming a research project into a CURE, such as the readiness of students, the time commitment of the instructor, and the productivity of the research. In this article, we report a CURE course developed and offered in the University of Massachusetts Amherst BMB Department since 2018 that addresses these challenges. Our CURE focuses on fungal effectors which are proteins secreted by a destructive pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum, one of the top five most devastating plant pathogens. By studying this group of proteins, students are connected to real-world problems and participate in the search for potential solutions. A 3-week "standard Boot Camp" is implemented to help students familiarize themselves with all basic techniques and boost their confidence. Next, molecular cloning, a versatile technique with modularity and repeatability, is used as the bedrock of the course. Our past 5 years of experience have confirmed that we have developed a novel and feasible CURE protocol. Measurable progress documented by students who took this course includes stimulated active learning and increased career trajectory to pursue hypothesis-based research to address societal needs. In addition, data generated through the course advance ongoing lab research. Collectively, we encourage the implementation of CURE among research-intensive faculty to provide a more inclusive research experience to undergraduate students, an important element in predicting career success.

The impact of a breast cancer diagnosis on marital outcomes and factors associated with divorce and separation

Abstract Objective To analyze marital outcomes, divorce or separation, and its association with demographic, socioeconomic, and clinicopathological factors among breast cancer (BC) survivors after 2-years of diagnosis. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of marital status at baseline and at years 1 and 2 of follow-up of women aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with invasive BC participating in the AMAZONA III (GBECAM0115) study. The BC diagnosis occurred between January 2016 and March 2018 at 23 institutions in Brazil. Results Of the 2974 women enrolled in AMAZONA III, 599 were married or living under common law at baseline. Divorce or separation occurred in 35 (5.8%) patients at 2 years of follow-up. In the multivariate analysis, public health insurance coverage was associated with a higher risk of marital status change (8.25% vs. 2.79%, RR 3.09, 95% CI 1.39 - 7.03, p = 0.007). Women who underwent mastectomy, adenomastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy were associated with a higher risk of divorce or separation (8.1% vs. 4.49%, RR 1.97, 95 CI 1.04 - 3.72, p = 0.0366) than those who underwent breast-conserving surgery. Conclusion Women covered by the public health system and those who underwent mastectomy, adenomastectomy or skin-sparing mastectomy were associated with a higher risk of divorce or separation. This evidence further supports the idea that long-term marital stability is associated with a complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions and stressors, such as BC diagnosis and treatment. ClinicalTrials Registration: NCT02663973.

Evaluation of the biological activities of Copaiba (Copaifera spp): a comprehensive review based on scientometric analysis.

Copaíba oil-resin is extracted from the trunk of the Copaíba tree and has medicinal, cosmetic, and industrial properties. As a result, widespread knowledge about the use of Copaíba oil-resin has evolved, attracting the scientific community's attention. This paper aims to map the global knowledge production regarding the biological activities of Copaíba (Copaifera spp.). Bibliometric methodological instruments were used to conduct a search of the Web of Science-Core Collection database. The search resulted in 822 references. After screening titles and abstracts, 581 references did not meet the eligibility criteria, leaving 246 references for full-text examination. Subsequently, 15 studies were excluded, resulting in a final set of 232 records for the bibliometric analysis. In vitro was the most published study type, mainly from Brazil, from 2010 to 2020. Regarding the authors, Bastos, JK, and Ambrosio, SR were the ones with the most significant number of papers included. The most frequent keywords were Copaíba oil, Copaíba, and Copaifera. Our findings revealed global study trends about Copaíba, mainly related to its various effects and use over time. In general, all countries have conducted more research on antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, also exposing its antioxidant and healing properties. Copaifera reticulata was the most investigated, followed by Copaifera langsdorffi and Copaifera multijuga in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Therefore, there is a need for human reports, given the promising results that Copaíba oils have been demonstrating.

Microglia contribute to cognitive decline in hypercholesterolemic LDLr-/- mice.

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is caused by mutations in the gene that encodes the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor, which leads to an excessive increase in plasma LDL cholesterol levels. Previous studies have shown that FH is associated with gliosis, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and memory impairment, but the mechanisms associated with these events are still not fully understood. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role of microgliosis in the neurochemical and behavioral changes associated with FH using LDL receptor knockout (LDLr-/- ) mice. We noticed that microgliosis was more severe in the hippocampus of middle-aged LDLr-/- mice, which was accompanied by microglial morphological changes and alterations in the immunocontent of synaptic protein markers. At three months of age, the LDLr-/- mice already showed increased microgliosis and decreased immunocontent of claudin-5 in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Subsequently, 6-month-old male C57BL/6 wild-type and LDLr-/- mice were treated once daily for 30 days with minocycline (a pharmacological inhibitor of microglial cell reactivity) or vehicle (saline). Adult LDLr-/- mice displayed significant hippocampal memory impairment, which was ameliorated by minocycline treatment. Non-treated LDLr-/- mice showed increased microglial density in all hippocampal regions analyzed, a process that was not altered by minocycline treatment. Region-specific microglial morphological analysis revealed different effects of genotype or minocycline treatment on microglial morphology, depending on the hippocampal subregion analyzed. Moreover, 6-month-old LDLr-/- mice exhibited a slight but not significant increase in IBA-1 immunoreactivity in the PFC, which was reduced by minocycline treatment without altering microglial morphology. Minocycline treatment also reduced the presence of microglia within the perivascular area in both the PFC and hippocampus of LDLr-/- mice. However, no significant effects of either genotype or minocycline treatment were observed regarding the phagocytic activity of microglia in the PFC and hippocampus. Our results demonstrate that hippocampal microgliosis, microglial morphological changes, and the presence of these glial cells in the perivascular area, but not increased microglial phagocytic activity, are associated with cognitive deficits in a mouse model of FH.

Sodium Butyrate Protects Against Intestinal Oxidative Damage and Neuroinflammation in the Prefrontal Cortex of Ulcerative Colitis Mice Model.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) cause increased inflammatory signalling and oxidative damage. IBDs are correlated with an increased incidence of brain-related disorders suggesting that the gut-brain-axis exerts a pivotal role in IBD. Butyrate is one of the main microbial metabolites in the colon, and it can cross the blood-brain barrier, directly affecting the brain. We induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice utilizing dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in the drinking water for 7 days. Animals were divided into four groups, receiving water or DSS and treated with saline or 0,066 g/kg of Sodium Butyrate for 7 days. We also used an integrative approach, combining bioinformatics functional network and experimental strategies to understand how butyrate may affect UC. Butyrate was able to attenuate colitis severity and intestinal inflammation. Butyrate protected the colon against oxidative damage in UC and protected the prefrontal cortex from neuroinflammation observed in DSS group. Immunocontent of tight junction proteins Claudin-5 and Occludin were reduced in colon of DSS group mice and butyrate was able to restore to control levels. Occludin and Claudin-5 decrease in DSS group indicate that an intestinal barrier disruption may lead to the increased influx of gut-derived molecules, causing neuroinflammation in the prefrontal cortex, observed by increased IBA-1 marker. The probable protection mechanism of butyrate treatment occurs through NRF2 through Nrf2 and HIF-1α activation and consequent activation of catalase and superoxide dismutase. Our data suggest that systemic inflammation associated with intestinal barrier disruption in UC leads to neuroinflammation in the prefrontal cortex, which was atenuated by butyrate.

Role of Oxidative Stress on Insulin Resistance in Diet-Induced Obesity Mice.

Insulin resistance is the link between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The molecular mechanism by which obese individuals develop insulin resistance has not yet been fully elucidated; however, inconclusive and contradictory studies have shown that oxidative stress may be involved in the process. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of reactive species on the mechanism of insulin resistance in diet-induced obese mice. Obese insulin-resistant mice were treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC; 50 mg/kg per day, for 15 days) by means of oral gavage. Twenty-four hours after the last NAC administration, the animals were euthanized and their tissues were extracted for biochemical and molecular analyses. NAC supplementation induced improved insulin resistance and fasting glycemia, without modifications in food intake, body weight, and adiposity. Obese mice showed increased dichlorofluorescein (DCF) oxidation, reduced catalase (CAT) activity, and reduced glutathione levels (GSH). However, treatment with NAC increased GSH and CAT activity and reduced DCF oxidation. The gastrocnemius muscle of obese mice showed an increase in nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP1B) levels, as well as c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation compared to the control group; however, NAC treatment reversed these changes. Considering the molecules involved in insulin signaling, there was a reduction in insulin receptor substrate (IRS) and protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation. However, NAC administration increased IRS and Akt phosphorylation and IRS/PI3k (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) association. The results demonstrated that oxidative stress-associated obesity could be a mechanism involved in insulin resistance, at least in this animal model.

CUR(E)ating a New Approach to Study Fungal Effectors and Enhance Undergraduate Education through Authentic Research.

Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) integrate active, discovery-based learning into undergraduate curriculums, adding tremendous value to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) education. There are multiple challenges in transforming a research project into a CURE, such as the readiness of students, the time commitment of the instructor, and the productivity of the research. In this article, we report a CURE course developed and offered in the University of Massachusetts Amherst BMB Department since 2018 that addresses these challenges. Our CURE focuses on fungal effectors which are proteins secreted by a destructive pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum , one of the top five most devastating plant pathogens. By studying this group of proteins, students are connected to real-world problems and participate in the search for potential solutions. A three-week "standard Bootcamp" is implemented to help students familiarize themselves with all basic techniques and boost their confidence. Next, molecular cloning, a versatile technique with modularity and repeatability, is used as the bedrock of the course. Our past five years of experience have confirmed that we have developed a novel and feasible CURE protocol. Measurable progress documented by students who took this course includes stimulated active learning and increased career trajectory to pursue hypothesis-based research to address societal needs. In addition, data generated through the course advance ongoing lab research. Collectively, we encourage the implementation of CURE among research-intensive faculty to provide a more inclusive research experience to all students, an important element in predicting career success.

Neuroprotective effects of combined therapy with memantine, donepezil, and vitamin D in ovariectomized female mice subjected to dementia model.

Women older than 60 have a higher risk of dementia, aging-related cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) than the rest of the population. The main reason is hormonal senescence after menopause, a period characterized by a decline in estrogen levels. Since the effectiveness of drugs currently approved for the treatment of AD is limited, it is necessary to seek the development of new therapeutic strategies. Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in AD patients and individuals with dementia in general. The supplementation of this vitamin in dementia patients might be an interesting approach for increasing the effectiveness of pre-existing medications for dementia treatment. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the effect of vitamin D treatment associated with memantine and donepezil in female mice submitted to ovariectomy (OVX) for five months and subjected to a dementia animal model induced by intracerebroventricular injection of aggregated amyloid ßeta (Aß1-42). For this purpose, Balb/c mice were divided into five experimental groups, which received 17 days of combined therapy with vitamin D, donepezil, and memantine. Then, animals were subjected to behavioral tests. OVX groups exhibited reduced levels of estradiol (E2) in serum, which was not altered by the combined therapy. Higher levels of vitamin D3 were found in the OVX animals submitted to the triple-association treatment. Mice exposed to both OVX and the dementia animal model presented impairment in short and long-term spatial and habituation memories. Also, female mice exposed to Aß and OVX exhibited a reduction in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) levels, and an increase in tumor necrose factor-α (TNFα) levels in the hippocampus. Besides, increased levels of IL-1ß in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex were observed, as well as a significant increase in immunoreactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), an astrocytes marker, in the hippocampus. Notably, triple-association treatment reversed the effects of the exposition of mice to Aß and OVX in the long-term spatial and habituation memories impairment, as well as reversed changes in TNFα, IL-1ß, IL-4, and GFAP immunoreactivity levels in the hippocampus of treated animals. Our results indicate that the therapeutic association of vitamin D, memantine, and donepezil has beneficial effects on memory performance and attenuated the neuroinflammatory response in female mice subjected to OVX associated with a dementia animal model.

Gold nanoparticles application to the treatment of brain dysfunctions related to metabolic diseases: evidence from experimental studies.

Nanotechnology is an emerging and expanding technology worldwide. The manipulation of materials on a nanometric scale generates new products with unique properties called nanomaterials. Due to its significant expansion, nanotechnology has been applied in several fields of study, including developing materials for biomedical applications, i.e., nanomedicine. The use of nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, in nanomedicine, is promising and has been associated with pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and therapeutic advantages. In this regard, it is worth mentioning the Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs). AuNPs' biomedical application is extensively investigated due to their high biocompatibility, simple preparation, catalytic, and redox properties. Experimental studies have pointed out critical therapeutic actions related to AuNPs in different pathophysiological contexts, mainly due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Thus, in this review, we will discuss the main experimental findings related to the therapeutic properties of AuNPs in metabolic, neurodegenerative diseases, and ultimately brain dysfunctions related to metabolic diseases.

Can CT-based assessment of lateral malleolus anatomy indicate when and how to perform an intramedullary fixation in distal fibula fractures? An analysis of 150 ankles.

PURPOSE: The primary aim was to analyse the lateral malleolus morphology with a focus on the shape of the distal fibula for IM fixation of the fibula in infra- and transsyndesmotic fracture patterns. The secondary aim was to propose a treatment algorithm according to the lateral malleolar anatomy. METHODS: 77 healthy, skeletally mature volunteers underwent CT scanning of the ankle. The fibula medullary canal and its cortical thickness were quantitatively analysed at 4 different levels measured from the fibular tip (1.5 cm, 3.0 cm, 4.5 cm, and 6.0 cm). A geometric classification was proposed, and a decision algorithm was developed. Statistical significance was set at a p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: The smallest diameter of the medullary canal of the fibula was at 6.0 cm from the tip of the fibula, in 98.2% of the ankles. The distal fibula can be classified into triangular and rectangular type, according to the cortical thickness index (p < 0.0001). In 16.7% ankles, the internal diameter of the fibula at 6.0 cm was equal or narrower than 3.5 mm (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The shape of the distal fibula as evaluated by CT-guided analysis allows for IM osteosynthesis of the lateral malleolus in 83% of individuals. In our study, the smallest diameter of the medullary canal of the fibula was located 6.0 cm from the tip of the lateral malleolus. Coronal CT evaluation is advantageous in indicating which type of IM implant should be used safely for infra- and transsyndesmotic fracture patterns, potentially reducing intraoperative risks.

Aspectos da confortabilidade de mulheres hospitalizadas na unidade materno-infantil: perspectiva dos profissionais de enfermagem / Aspectos involucrados en la comodidad de mujeres hospitalizadas en la unidad materno infantil: perspectiva de profesionales de enfermería / Aspects involved in the comfort of women hospitalized in the maternal and child unit: perspective of nursing professionals

Objetivo: conhecer os aspectos implicados na confortabilidade das mulheres hospitalizadas na unidade materno-infantil, na perspectiva dos profissionais de enfermagem. Método: pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório e descritivo realizada em uma unidade materno-infantil, com 21 profissionais de enfermagem. A coleta de dados ocorreu por entrevista semiestruturada e, posteriormente, os dados foram submetidos a análise temática. Resultados: dentre os aspectos que contribuem para a confortabilidade destacam-se: mobiliário, serviço de hotelaria, métodos não farmacológicos para alívio da dor, respeito às escolhas da parturiente, direito ao acompanhante e disponibilidade da equipe. Como aspectos que dificultam a confortabilidade evidenciou-se a necessidade de adequação da estrutura física com a adoção de quartos pré-parto, parto e pós-parto, e espaços que permitam a vivência do luto em situações de óbito fetal. Considerações finais: a confortabilidade não está relacionada somente aos aspectos estruturais, materiais ou arquitetônicos, mas envolve as relações e interações estabelecidas na unidade materno-infantil.

Objetivo: conocer los aspectos involucrados en el confort de la mujer hospitalizada en la unidad materno-infantil, desde la perspectiva de los profesionales de enfermería. Método: investigación cualitativa exploratoria y descriptiva; realizada en una unidad materno-infantil, con 21 profesionales de enfermería. La recolección de datos ocurrió a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas, y posteriormente los datos fueron sometidos al análisis temático. Resultados: entre los aspectos que contribuyen al confort, se destacan: mobiliario, servicio hotelero, métodos no farmacológicos para el alivio del dolor, respeto a las elecciones de la parturienta, derecho a acompañante y disponibilidad del equipo. Como aspectos que dificultan el confort, se evidenció la necesidad de adecuar la estructura física con la adopción de salas de preparto, parto y posparto, y espacios que permitan la vivencia del duelo en situaciones de muerte fetal. Consideraciones finales: el confort no sólo está relacionado con aspectos estructurales, materiales o arquitectónicos, sino que involucra las relaciones e interacciones que se establecen en la unidad materno-infantil.

Objective: to know the aspects involved in the comfortability of women hospitalized in the maternal and child unit, from the perspective of nursing professionals. Method: qualitative exploratory and descriptive research conducted in a maternal-child unit with 21 nursing professionals. Data collection occurred by semi-structured interview, and subsequently the data were submitted to thematic analysis. Results: among the aspects that contribute to comfortability stand out: furniture, hospitality service, non-pharmacological methods for pain relief, respect for the choices of the parturient, right to the companion and availability of the team. As aspects that hinder comfortability, it was evidenced the need to adapt the physical structure with the adoption of pre-delivery, delivery and post-delivery rooms, and spaces that allow the experience of grief in situations of fetal death. Final considerations: comfortability is not only related to structural, material or architectural aspects, but involves the relationships and interactions established in the maternal-child unit.

Intrinsic foot strengthening and electrostimulation in older adults - Randomized clinical trial / Fortalecimento intrínseco do pé e eletroestimulação em idosos - Ensaio clínico randomizado

Abstract Introduction Aging reduces functional capacity related to reduced toe plantar flexion strength. The exercise for strengthening the foot's intrinsic muscles can be optimized using electrostimulation. Due to the scarcity of data in the literature on these methods, further studies are necessary. Objective To evaluate and compare the effects of training to strengthen the foot's intrinsic muscles on the risk of falls in older adults. Methods This is a randomized clinical trial with 19 older patients allocated into three groups: control (CG; n = 7), exercise (EG; n = 6), and exercise+electrostimulation (EEG; n = 6). The EG received an exercise protocol for the foot's intrinsic muscles, the EEG received the same protocol with Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), and the CG received guidance regarding preventing falls. The individuals were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Single-Limb balance test (SLBT), Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Paper Grip Test (PGT) tests. One and two-way ANOVA was used for the statistical analysis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results There was a significant improvement in the TUG test (9.64 ± 1.78 vs. 8.20 ± 1.94) in relation to the EG. With the EEG, there was an improvement both in the TUG (12.68 ± 4.01 vs. 10.61 ± 3.70) and in the FRT (26.37 ± 7.66 vs. 33.14±9.73) with p < 0.05). Conclusion An exercise protocol associated with electrostimulation improves performance in func-tional and dynamic balance tests in older adults.

Resumo Introdução O envelhecimento reduz a capacidade fun-cional, que está relacionada com a redução de força muscular de flexão plantar dos dedos dos pés. O exercício de fortalecimento da musculatura intrínseca do pé pode ser otimizado com o uso da eletroestimulação eletro (EENM). Devido à escassez de dados na literatura sobre a utilização desses métodos, torna-se necessário realizar novos estudos. Objetivo Avaliar e comparar os efeitos do treino de fortalecimento da musculatura intrínseca do pé no risco de queda em idosos. Métodos Trata-se de um ensaio clínico randomizado, no qual 19 idosos foram alocados em três grupos: controle (GC; n = 7), exercício (GE; n = 6) e exercício+eletroestimulação (GEE; n = 6). O GE recebeu um protocolo de exercícios para a musculatura intrínseca do pé, o GEE recebeu o mesmo protocolo seguido de EENM e o GC recebeu orientações quanto à prevenção de quedas. Os indivíduos foram avaliados antes e após a intervenção através dos testes de Apoio Unipodal , Teste de Alcance Funcional (TAF), Timed Up and Go (TUG) e Paper Grip Test (PGT). Para a análise estatística, utilizou-se ANOVA 1 e 2 vias. Considerou-se estatisticamente significante um valor de p < 0,05. Resultados Observou-se melhora significativa no teste TUG (9,64 ± 1,78 vs 8,20 ± 1,94) em relação ao GE. Em relação ao GEE, houve melhora tanto no TUG (12,68 ± 4,01 vs 10,61 ± 3,70) quanto no TAF (26,37 ± 7,66 vs 33,14 ± 9,73). Conclusão Conclui-se que um protocolo de exercício associado à eletroestimulação melhora o desempenho nos testes de equilíbrio funcional e equilíbrio dinâmico em indivíduos idosos.

Effects of diet-induced hypercholesterolemia and gold nanoparticles treatment on peripheral tissues.

Cholesterol is a lipid molecule of great biological importance to animal cells. Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism leads to raised blood total cholesterol levels, a clinical condition called hypercholesterolemia. Evidence has shown that hypercholesterolemia is associated with the development of liver and heart disease. One of the mechanisms underlying heart and liver alterations induced by hypercholesterolemia is oxidative stress. In this regard, in several experimental studies, gold nanoparticles (AuNP) displayed antioxidant properties. We hypothesized that hypercholesterolemia causes redox system imbalance in the liver and cardiac tissues, and AuNP treatment could ameliorate it. Young adult male Swiss mice fed a regular rodent diet or a high cholesterol diet for eight weeks and concomitantly treated with AuNP (2.5 µg/kg) or vehicle by oral gavage. Hypercholesterolemia increased the nitrite concentration and glutathione (GSH) levels and decreased the liver's superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Also, hypercholesterolemia significantly enhanced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and GSH levels in cardiac tissue. Notably, AuNP promoted the redox system homeostasis, increasing the SOD activity in hepatic tissue and reducing ROS levels in cardiac tissue. Overall, our data showed that hypercholesterolemia triggered oxidative stress in mice's liver and heart, which was partially prevented by AuNP treatment.

Variability of the ß-casein gene polymorphism in Curraleiro Pé-Duro cattle: a geographical genetics approach.

This study purposes to examine the distribution of A2A2 alleles in herds of Curraleiro Pé-Duro (CPD) cattle and test association patterns with geographical and municipal development data. Eight CPD herds were selected from the municipalities of Tocantins State, Brazil. The frequency of the A1 and A2 allele was 40.0 and 60.0%, and the frequencies of genotypes A1A1, A1A2, and A2A2 were 20.0, 39.0, and 41.0%, respectively. Correlation estimates supported that the preferred genotype (A2A2) was mostly present in the relatively higher developed mesoregion (West) (P < 0.05). However, genotypic frequencies varied at random according to human population of municipalities and human development index (P > 0.05). The evaluation of the variability of the ß-casein gene polymorphism, coupled with spatially explicit methods (spatial autocorrelation, mantel test, and interpolation procedures), revealed some level of spatial dependency. The results suggest that the production of A2A2 milk in indigenous CPD cattle is feasible. This will depend on the adoption of selection schemes.

Propagandas e campanhas de aleitamento materno: percepção de mulheres membros de grupos virtuais / Breastfeeding advertisements and campaigns: perception of women members of virtual groups / Anuncios y campañas de lactancia materna: percepción de las mujeres miembros de grupos virtuales

Objetivo: conhecer a percepção de mulheres que participam de grupos virtuais hospedados no Facebook acerca do conteúdo veiculado por propagandas e campanhas, de 1921 até à atualidade, que envolvem à temática de aleitamento materno. Método: pesquisa de caráter exploratório e descritivo. Participaram 15 mulheres membros de dois grupos virtuais hospedados no Facebook. A coleta de dados se sucedeu na plataforma por meio de um formulário associado ao método de fotoelicitação. Posteriormente, empregou-se a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: as participantes identificaram que as propagandas do ramo alimentício, ao longo dos anos, contribuíram para a construção da falsa crença de que o leite artificial é superior ao leite materno, o que necessitou, posteriormente, de campanhas de incentivo à amamentação. Considerações finais: as campanhas recentes evidenciam a importância tanto da rede de apoio quanto da garantia dos direitos da nutriz para que o aleitamento materno se estabeleça conforme o recomendado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Contudo, as campanhas construíram um romantismo em torno do aleitamento materno e da figura materna, fato que culminou na sua responsabilização pelo sucesso da amamentação.(AU)

Objective: to know the perception of women who participate in virtual groups hosted on Facebook, about the content disseminated by advertisements and campaigns from 1921 until today, involving the theme of breastfeeding. Method: Exploratory and descriptive research. Fifteen women members of two virtual groups hosted on Facebook participated. Data collection took place on the platform through a form associated with the photo-elicitation method. Subsequently, content analysis was used. Results: The participants identified that food industry advertisements over the years have contributed to the construction of the false belief that artificial milk is superior to breast milk, which later required campaigns to encourage breastfeeding. Final considerations: recent campaigns highlight the importance of both the support network and the guarantee of the rights of the nursing woman so that breastfeeding is established as recommended by the World Health Organization. However, the campaigns have built romanticism around breastfeeding and the mother figure; a fact that has culminated in her being held responsible for the success of breastfeeding.(AU)

Objetivo: conocer la percepción de las mujeres que participan en grupos virtuales alojados en Facebook sobre el contenido visto por propagandas y campañas, desde 1921 hasta la actualidad, que envuelven la temática de aleitamento materno. Método: investigación exploratoria y descriptiva. Participaron 15 mujeres miembros de dos grupos virtuales alojados en Facebook. La recopilación de datos se realizó en la plataforma mediante un formulario asociado al método de fotoelitización. Posteriormente, se utilizó el análisis de contenido. Resultados: los participantes identificaron que los anuncios de la industria alimentaria, a lo largo de los años, han contribuido a la construcción de la falsa creencia de que la leche artificial es superior a la materna, lo que posteriormente requirió campañas para fomentar la lactancia materna. Consideraciones finales: las recientes campañas destacan la importancia tanto de la red de apoyo como de la garantía de los derechos de la madre lactante para que la lactancia materna se establezca tal y como recomienda la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Sin embargo, las campañas han construido un romanticismo en torno a la lactancia materna y a la figura de la madre, hecho que ha culminado en responsabilizarla del éxito de la lactancia.(AU)