Animal Welfare Assessment and Meat Quality through Assessment of Stress Biomarkers in Fattening Pigs with and without Visible Damage during Slaughter.

The study aimed to investigate the physiological and meat quality differences between Non-Ambulatory, Non-Injured (NANI), and without apparent abnormalities (non-NANI) pigs in a commercial slaughterhouse setting, focusing on the impact of stress and health conditions on the overall well-being and meat quality of the animals. A total of 241 surgically castrated crossbred male pigs from Southern Brazil were analyzed, with 131 non-NANI pigs and 110 NANI pigs. Infrared orbital temperature, rectal temperature, hematological parameters, and meat quality measurements were collected. Statistical analysis included ANOVA tests and principal component analysis (PCA). NANI pigs exhibited significantly higher infrared orbital temperatures and rectal temperature (p < 0.01). Hematological analysis revealed higher levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells in NANI pigs (p < 0.05). White blood cell count and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly elevated in NANI pigs (p < 0.01), indicating potential infections or inflammatory responses. Meat quality parameters showed that NANI pigs had lower pH values, higher luminosity, and increased drip loss (p < 0.01), reflecting poorer water retention and potential muscle glycogen depletion. The study highlights the physiological and meat quality differences between NANI and non-NANI pigs, emphasizing the impact of stress, health conditions, and handling procedures on the animals. Blood biomarkers proved valuable in assessing physiological stress, immune response, and potential health issues in pigs, correlating with meat quality abnormalities. Utilizing these biomarkers as predictive tools can enhance animal welfare practices and contribute to improving meat quality in the swine industry.

Mitochondrial variants of complex I genes associated with leprosy clinical subtypes.

Leprosy is a chronic bacterial infection mainly caused by Mycobacterium leprae that primarily affects skin and peripheral nerves. Due to its ability to absorb carbon from the host cell, the bacillus became dependent on energy production, mainly through oxidative phosphorylation. In fact, variations in genes of Complex I of oxidative phosphorylation encoded by mtDNA have been associated with several diseases in humans, including bacterial infections, which are possible influencers in the host response to leprosy. Here, we investigated the presence of variants in the mtDNA genes encoding Complex I regarding leprosy, as well as the analysis of their pathogenicity in the studied cohort. We found an association of 74 mitochondrial variants with either of the polar forms, Pole T (Borderline Tuberculoid) or Pole L (Borderline Lepromatous and Lepromatous) of leprosy. Notably, six variants were exclusively found in both clinical poles of leprosy, including m.4158A>G and m.4248T>C in MT-ND1, m.13650C>A, m.13674T>C, m.12705C>T and m.13263A>G in MT-ND5, of which there are no previous reports in the global literature. Our observations reveal a substantial number of mutations among different groups of leprosy, highlighting a diverse range of consequences associated with mutations in genes across these groups. Furthermore, we suggest that the six specific variants exclusively identified in the case group could potentially play a crucial role in leprosy susceptibility and its clinical differentiation. These variants are believed to contribute to the instability and dysregulation of oxidative phosphorylation during the infection, further emphasizing their significance.

Enhancing Weaned Piglet Health and Performance: The Role of Autolyzed Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and ß-Glucans as a Blood Plasma Alternative in Diets.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of the autolyzed yeast (AY) Saccharomyces cerevisiae with or without an immunomodulator (1,3/1,6 ß-glucans) as a total/partial substitute for blood plasma (BP) in the diet of post-weaning piglets; zootechnical performance, intestinal health and microbiota, immune responses and energy metabolism were assessed. A total of 240 castrated male and female piglets, with a mean age of 22 days and mean initial weight of 5.24 ± 0.82 kg, were randomly divided into blocks of four treatments with 12 replicates. The dietary inclusions were blood plasma (BP), autolyzed yeast (AY), autolyzed yeast + immunomodulator (AYI) and 50% BP and 50% AY (BPAY). In pre-initial phase II (29-35 days), piglets fed AY showed better feed conversion (FCR = 1.358) than the piglets in the BP (1.484), AYI (1.379) and BPAY (1.442) groups, i.e., 8.49% (0.126), 1.52% (0.021) and 4.50% (0.084), respectively (p = 0.0293). In the total period (21-42 days), better FCR was observed in the AYI (1.458) group, i.e., 4.64% (0.071), 1.15% (0.017) and 4.58% (0.070), than in the BP (1.529), AY (1.475) and BPAY (1.528) groups, respectively (p = 0.0150). In piglets fed AY (n = 3) and BPAY (n = 2), there was a reduction in the number of medications, i.e., 82.35% (-14n) and 88.23% (-15n), respectively (p = 0.0001), compared with that in the BP group (n = 17). In the AY group (73.83 mg/dL), AYI group (69.92 mg/dL), and BPAY group (69.58 mg/dL), piglets exhibited increases in triglyceride levels of 79.32%, 69.83%, and 69.00%, respectively, in comparison to those in the BP group, which had triglyceride levels of 41.17 mg/dL (p = 0.0400). The beta-hydroxybutyrate concentration in the AY group (79.96 ng/µL) was lower by 31.95%, 22.64%, and 5.89% compared to the BP group (117.50 ng/µL), AYI group (103.36 ng/µL), and BPAY group (84.67 ng/µL), respectively (p = 0.0072). In the AYI group, there was modulation of the microbiota, with an increase in the relative abundance of bacteria of the genera Lactobacillus, Collinsella and Bulleidia. AY, associated or not associated with an immunomodulator, is a potential substitute for BP in diets for piglets in the nursery phase, with positive effects on immune, metabolic, and intestinal microbial performance.

Effects of Voice Pitch on Social Perceptions Vary With Relational Mobility and Homicide Rate.

Fundamental frequency ( fo) is the most perceptually salient vocal acoustic parameter, yet little is known about how its perceptual influence varies across societies. We examined how fo affects key social perceptions and how socioecological variables modulate these effects in 2,647 adult listeners sampled from 44 locations across 22 nations. Low male fo increased men's perceptions of formidability and prestige, especially in societies with higher homicide rates and greater relational mobility in which male intrasexual competition may be more intense and rapid identification of high-status competitors may be exigent. High female fo increased women's perceptions of flirtatiousness where relational mobility was lower and threats to mating relationships may be greater. These results indicate that the influence of fo on social perceptions depends on socioecological variables, including those related to competition for status and mates.

Checklist of Odonata species from Serra of Itabaiana National Park, and an update and new records for the state of Sergipe, Brazil / Checklist das espécies de Odonata do Parque Nacional da Serra de Itabaiana, e uma atualização e novos registros para o estado de Sergipe, Brasil

Abstract Understanding species diversity and distribution cannot be overstated in the development of effective management and biological conservation strategies. Our goal was to address the knowledge gap regarding dragonfly diversity in the northeastern Atlantic Forest, specifically in the Serra of Itabaiana National Park in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. During our study, we recorded 40 species and 969 Odonata individuals across six families and 25 genera. This study contributes 27 new occurrence records of Odonata species in Sergipe, Brazil, highlighting the significance of preserving and protecting the habitats of this region. Our findings provide valuable information on the distribution of dragonfly species in the state of Sergipe and the Northeast region.

Resumo A compreensão da diversidade e distribuição das espécies é fundamental para o desenvolvimento de estratégias efetivas de manejo e conservação biológica. Nosso objetivo foi abordar a lacuna de conhecimento sobre a diversidade de libélulas na Mata Atlântica nordestina, especificamente na Serra do Parque Nacional de Itabaiana, no estado de Sergipe, Brasil. Durante nosso estudo, registramos 40 espécies e 969 indivíduos de Odonata em seis famílias e 25 gêneros. Este estudo contribui com 27 novos registros de ocorrência de espécies de Odonata em Sergipe, Brasil, destacando a importância de preservar e proteger os habitats desta região. Nossos resultados fornecem informações valiosas sobre a distribuição das espécies de libélulas no estado de Sergipe e na região Nordeste.

Doença Celíaca: Desvelando Histórias / Celiac Disease: Unveiling Stories / Enfermedad Celíaca: Desvelando Historias

Objetivo: explorar o impacto da doença celíaca no bem-estar e no desenvolvimento de crianças, conforme percebido por suas mães, participantes do grupo "Criança Celíaca" no Facebook. Método: Estudo qualitativo, utilizando o método de história oral. A pesquisa centraliza a questão: Como a doença celíaca influencia a qualidade de vida e a saúde durante o crescimento e desenvolvimento infantil? Seis mães foram escolhidas com base em critérios de inclusão específicos e concordaram em participar do estudo. Os dados foram coletados através de entrevistas gravadas no Zoom e analisados por meio de transcrição, agrupamento e categorização dos depoimentos. Resultados:Os achados são divididos em sete categorias: experiências de crianças com doença celíaca; impacto na qualidade de vida, crescimento e desenvolvimento; interações em eventos sociais; experiências escolares; emoções diante da doença; e necessidades das famílias afetadas. Conclusão: O estudo revela a necessidade de maior envolvimento dos profissionais de enfermagem neste campo, enfatizando a importância do papel ativo dos pais na garantia da qualidade de vida de crianças celíacas

Objective: to explore the impact of celiac disease on the well-being and development of children as perceived by their mothers, members of the "CeliacChild" group on Facebook. Method:This qualitative study, employing oral history methodology. The research focuses on the question: How does celiac disease affect the quality of life and health during childhood growth and development? Six mothers were selected based on specific inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Data were collected through interviews recorded on Zoom and analyzed through transcription, grouping, and categorization of the testimonies. Results:The findings are divided into seven categories: experiences of children with celiac disease; impact on quality of life, growth, and development; interactions at social events; school experiences; emotions in the face of the disease; and the needs of affected families. Conclusion:The study highlights the need for greater involvement of nursing professionals in this field, emphasizing the importance of parents' active role in ensuring the quality of life of children with celiac disease

Objetivo: explorar el impacto de la enfermedad celíaca en el bienestar y desarrollo de los niños, según lo percibido por sus madres, integrantes del grupo "Niño Celíaco" en Facebook. Método:Este estudio cualitativo, utilizando el método de historia oral. La investigación se centra en la pregunta: ¿Cómo afecta la enfermedad celíaca a la calidad de vida y la salud durante el crecimiento y desarrollo infantil? Se seleccionaron seis madres basadas en criterios específicos de inclusión y acordaron participar en el estudio. Los datos se recopilaron a través de entrevistas grabadas en Zoom y se analizaron mediante transcripción, agrupación y categorización de los testimonios. Resultados:Los hallazgos se dividen en siete categorías: experiencias de niños con enfermedad celíaca; impacto en la calidad de vida, crecimiento y desarrollo; interacciones en eventos sociales; experiencias escolares; emociones frente a la enfermedad; y las necesidades de las familias afectadas. Conclusión:El estudio resalta la necesidad de una mayorimplicación de los profesionales de enfermería en este campo, enfatizando la importancia del rol activo de los padres en garantizar la calidad de vida de los niños celíacos.

Os impactos da comunicação inadequada na relação médico-paciente / The impacts of inadequate communication on the physician-patient relation

Resumo: Introdução: Como um componente substancial na relação médico-paciente, a comunicação pode ser determinante na construção da hipótese diagnóstica e na adesão ao tratamento por parte do paciente, e, por isso, há a necessidade de compreender os fatores que influenciam no processo comunicativo e descrever a efetividade dele. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os impactos da comunicação inadequada na relação médico-paciente. Método: Vinte e três pacientes voluntários com a maioridade atingida preencheram questionários de informações socioeconômicas, uso da linguagem e impressões da consulta médica. O médico preencheu um questionário sobre a experiência da consulta. Resultado: Os resultados indicaram que os pacientes apresentaram alguma dificuldade em comunicar ao médico o que sentiam, e, de modo complementar, os médicos, em 20% dos casos, tiveram algum grau de dificuldade de chegar à hipótese diagnóstica a partir do relato do paciente, o que se relaciona com a linguagem pouco descritiva utilizada pela maior parte dos pacientes. Conclusão: Dada a necessidade da qualidade da comunicação entre o médico e o paciente, conhecer os fatores que impactam o processo comunicativo é o primeiro passo para a garantia de um atendimento eficaz com autonomia do paciente e maior adesão ao plano terapêutico.

Abstract: Introduction: As a substantial component of the doctor-patient relationship, communication can be crucial in the construction of a diagnostic hypothesis and patient adherence to treatment. It is therefore necessary to understand the factors that influence the communicative process and describe the effectiveness of the communication. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impacts of inadequate communication in the doctor-patient relationship. Method: Twenty-three voluntary patients of legal age completed questionnaires on socioeconomic information, language use, and impressions of the medical consultation. The doctor filled out a questionnaire regarding their experience of the consultation. Result: The results indicated that patients experienced some difficulty in communicating their feelings to the doctor, and furthermore, in 20% of cases, doctors encountered some degree of difficulty in reaching a diagnostic hypothesis based on the patient's report, which is related to the predominantly non-descriptive language used by most patients. Conclusion: Given the need for high quality communication between the doctor and the patient, understanding the factors that impact the communicative process is the first step towards ensuring effective care with patient autonomy and improved adherence to the treatment plan.

Whole mitogenome sequencing uncovers a relation between mitochondrial heteroplasmy and leprosy severity.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the mitochondria/immune system interaction has been proposed, so that variants of mitochondrial genome and levels of heteroplasmy might deregulate important metabolic processes in fighting infections, such as leprosy. METHODS: We sequenced the whole mitochondrial genome to investigate variants and heteroplasmy levels, considering patients with different clinical forms of leprosy and household contacts. After sequencing, a specific pipeline was used for preparation and bioinformatics analysis to select heteroplasmic variants. RESULTS: We found 116 variants in at least two of the subtypes of the case group (Borderline Tuberculoid, Borderline Lepromatous, Lepromatous), suggesting a possible clinical significance to these variants. Notably, 15 variants were exclusively found in these three clinical forms, of which five variants stand out for being missense (m.3791T > C in MT-ND1, m.5317C > A in MT-ND2, m.8545G > A in MT-ATP8, m.9044T > C in MT-ATP6 and m.15837T > C in MT-CYB). In addition, we found 26 variants shared only by leprosy poles, of which two are characterized as missense (m.4248T > C in MT-ND1 and m.8027G > A in MT-CO2). CONCLUSION: We found a significant number of variants and heteroplasmy levels in the leprosy patients from our cohort, as well as six genes that may influence leprosy susceptibility, suggesting for the first time that the mitogenome might be involved with the leprosy process, distinction of clinical forms and severity. Thus, future studies are needed to help understand the genetic consequences of these variants.

Euglena gracilis ß-Glucans (1,3): Enriching Colostrum of Sow for Enhanced Piglet Immunity.

The effects of supplementing the diet of sows with ßG-(1,3) derived from Euglena gracilis algae were assessed regarding quality and amount of colostrum as well as performance of piglets. A total of 120 sows (first (nulliparous) to sixth parity (multiparous)) from D85 of gestation until weaning were divided into two groups: the control diet group (n = 60) and the ßG-(1,3) diet group (n = 60). Sows receiving ßG-(1,3) exhibited an average increase of 870 g (24.9%) in colostrum production, leading to a 25.17% higher intake of colostrum by piglets. Furthermore, piglets in the ßG-(1,3) group showed significantly superior weight gain of 34 g (50%) compared to the control group 18 h after birth (p < 0.05). Sows fed with ßG-(1,3) produced colostrum with significantly higher concentrations of IgG (5.914 mg/mL, 16.16%) and IgM (0.378 mg/mL, 16.29%) than the control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, serum concentrations of IgG (13.86 mg/mL, 51.25%), IgA (17.16 mg/mL, 120.19%), and IgM (13.23 mg/mL, 144.78%) were significantly higher in sows fed with ßG-(1,3) than in the control group (p < 0.05). Supplementing sows with ßG-(1,3) derived from the Euglena gracilis algae resulted in increased colostrum production and consumption, along with greater weight gain in piglets during the first 18 h after birth. Additionally, both the colostrum produced by the sows and the blood serum of the piglets exhibited higher concentrations of immunoglobulins.

Penicillin-binding protein (PBP) inhibitor development: A 10-year chemical perspective.

Bacterial cell wall formation is essential for cellular survival and morphogenesis. The peptidoglycan (PG), a heteropolymer that surrounds the bacterial membrane, is a key component of the cell wall, and its multistep biosynthetic process is an attractive antibacterial development target. Penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) are responsible for cross-linking PG stem peptides, and their central role in bacterial cell wall synthesis has made them the target of successful antibiotics, including ß-lactams, that have been used worldwide for decades. Following the discovery of penicillin, several other compounds with antibiotic activity have been discovered and, since then, have saved millions of lives. However, since pathogens inevitably become resistant to antibiotics, the search for new active compounds is continuous. The present review highlights the ongoing development of inhibitors acting mainly in the transpeptidase domain of PBPs with potential therapeutic applications for the development of new antibiotic agents. Both the critical aspects of the strategy, design, and structure-activity relationships (SAR) are discussed, covering the main published articles over the last 10 years. Some of the molecules described display activities against main bacterial pathogens and could open avenues toward the development of new, efficient antibacterial drugs.

Investigation of Genetic Factors and Clinical Data in Breast Cancer Highlights the Importance of Breastfeeding and Cancer History.

Breast cancer (BC) is the type of neoplasm that most affects women worldwide. It is known that one of the hallmarks of cancer is the resistance to cell death with the evasion of apoptosis. Considering the relevance of TP53, BCL2, CASP3, and CASP9 genes for the occurrence of the intrinsic apoptosis, this study investigated the distribution of the genetic variants rs17880560 (TP53), rs11269260 (BCL2), rs4647655 (CASP3), rs4645982, and rs61079693 (CASP9), as well as genetic ancestry and clinical data, in a BC cohort from the Brazilian Amazon that other variants in these genes might play a role in this process. In the present study, 22 breast cancer tissues and 10 non-cancerous tissues were used, therefore, 32 samples from different patients were subjected to genotyping. We observed that breastfeeding and cancer history were factors that need to be considered for BC (p = 0.022). Therefore, this study contributed to a greater understanding of intrinsic apoptosis in BC, reinforcing previous data that suggest that the history of cancer might be a condition that affects the development of BC and that breastfeeding may act as a protective factor for this type of cancer. We recommend more studies on the genetic factors investigated here, aiming at a future with tools that can help in the early diagnosis.

Computer aided diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders and genetic syndromes based on facial images - A systematic literature review.

Neurodevelopment disorders can result in facial dysmorphisms. Therefore, the analysis of facial images using image processing and machine learning techniques can help construct systems for diagnosing genetic syndromes and neurodevelopmental disorders. The systems offer faster and cost-effective alternatives for genotyping tests, particularly when dealing with large-scale applications. However, there are still challenges to overcome to ensure the accuracy and reliability of computer-aided diagnosis systems. This article presents a systematic review of such initiatives, including 55 articles. The main aspects used to develop these diagnostic systems were discussed, namely datasets - availability, type of image, size, ethnicities and syndromes - types of facial features, techniques used for normalization, dimensionality reduction and classification, deep learning, as well as a discussion related to the main gaps, challenges and opportunities.

Transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 variants in the Brazilian state of Pará.

Introduction: After three years since the beginning of the pandemic, the new coronavirus continues to raise several questions regarding its infectious process and host response. Several mutations occurred in different regions of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, such as in the spike gene, causing the emergence of variants of concern and interest (VOCs and VOIs), of which some present higher transmissibility and virulence, especially among patients with previous comorbidities. It is essential to understand its spread dynamics to prevent and control new biological threats that may occur in the future. In this population_based retrospective observational study, we generated data and used public databases to understand SARS-CoV-2 dynamics. Methods: We sequenced 1,003 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from naso-oropharyngeal swabs and saliva samples from Pará from May 2020 to October 2022. To gather epidemiological data from Brazil and the world, we used FIOCRUZ and GISAID databases. Results: Regarding our samples, 496 (49.45%) were derived from female participants and 507 (50.55%) from male participants, and the average age was 43 years old. The Gamma variant presented the highest number of cases, with 290 (28.91%) cases, followed by delta with 53 (5.28%). Moreover, we found seven (0.69%) Omicron cases and 651 (64.9%) non-VOC cases. A significant association was observed between sex and the clinical condition (female, p = 8.65e-08; male, p = 0.008961) and age (p = 3.6e-10). Discussion: Although gamma had been officially identified only in December 2020/January 2021, we identified a gamma case from Belém (capital of Pará State) dated May 2020 and three other cases in October 2020. This indicates that this variant was circulating in the North region of Brazil several months before its formal identification and that Gamma demonstrated its actual transmission capacity only at the end of 2020. Furthermore, the public data analysis showed that SARS-CoV-2 dispersion dynamics differed in Brazil as Gamma played an important role here, while most other countries reported a new infection caused by the Delta variant. The genetic and epidemiological information of this study reinforces the relevance of having a robust genomic surveillance service that allows better management of the pandemic and that provides efficient solutions to possible new disease-causing agents.

Association of apoptosis-related variants to malaria infection and parasite density in individuals from the Brazilian Amazon.

BACKGROUND: In malaria infection, apoptosis acts as an important immunomodulatory mechanism that leads to the elimination of parasitized cells, thus reducing the parasite density and controlling immune cell populations. Here, it was investigated the association of INDEL variants in apoptotic genes-rs10562972 (FAS), rs4197 (FADD), rs3834129 and rs59308963 (CASP8), rs61079693 (CASP9), rs4647655 (CASP3), rs11269260 (BCL-2), and rs17880560 (TP53)-and the influence of genetic ancestry with susceptibility to malaria and parasite density in an admixed population from the Brazilian Amazon. METHODS: Total DNA was extracted from 126 malaria patients and 101 uninfected individuals for investigation of genetic ancestries and genotypic distribution of apoptosis-related variants by Multiplex PCR. Association analyses consisted of multivariate logistic regressions, considering the following comparisons: (i) DEL/DEL genotype vs. INS/DEL + INS/INS; and (ii) INS/INS vs. INS/DEL + DEL/DEL. RESULTS: Individuals infected by Plasmodium falciparum had significantly higher African ancestry proportions in comparison to uninfected controls, Plasmodium vivax, and mixed infections. The INS/INS genotype of rs3834129 (CASP8) seemed to increase the risk for P. falciparum infection (P = 0.038; OR = 1.867; 95% CI 0.736-3.725), while the DEL/DEL genotype presented a significant protective effect against infection by P. falciparum (P = 0.049; OR = 0.446; 95% CI 0.185-0.944) and mixed infection (P = 0.026; OR = 0.545; 95% CI 0.281-0.996), and was associated with lower parasite density in P. falciparum malaria (P = 0.009; OR = 0.383; 95% CI 0.113-1.295). Additionally, the INS/INS genotype of rs10562972 (FAS) was more frequent among individuals infected with P. vivax compared to P. falciparum (P = 0.036; OR = 2.493; 95% CI 1.104-4.551), and the DEL/DEL genotype of rs17880560 (TP53) was significantly more present in patients with mono-infection by P. vivax than in individuals with mixed infection (P = 0.029; OR = 0.667; 95% CI 0.211-1.669). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, variants in apoptosis genes are associated with malaria susceptibility and parasite density, indicating the role of apoptosis-related genetic profiles in immune responses against malaria infection.

Capsaicin and 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Glycoside: Effects on the Reproductive Performance of Hyper-Prolific Sows.

This study evaluated the effect of a natural source of vitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] and capsaicin (CAP) in the dietary supplementation of sows in the final phase (85-114 days) of gestation (Gest) and lactation (Lact) on the reproductive performance of the sows and health of piglets through two experiments (Exp I and II). In Exp I, 120 sows were subjected to four treatments: T1-control (without [1,25-(OH)2D3] and supplemental CAP); T2-3.5 µg 1,25-(OH)2D3/Gest/day and 7.0 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3/Lact/day; T3-7.0 µg CAP/Gest/day and 14.0 µg CAP/Lact/day; T4-1.75 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 + 3.5 µg CAP/Gest/day and 3.5 µg 1,25-(OH)2D3 + 7.0 µg CAP/Lact/day. In Exp II, 200 sows were randomly blocked, factorial 2 × 2 (without or with Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 and without or with CAP): T1-control (without Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 and CAP); T2-3.5 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3/Gest/day and 7.0 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3/Lact/day; T3-7.0 µg CAP/Gest/day and 14.0 µg CAP/Lact/day; T4-3.5 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 + 7 µg CAP/Gest/day; and 7.0 µg Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 + 14.0 µg CAP/Lact/day. The duration of delivery (3:48 vs. 4:57 h) and the percentage of stillbirths (5.37% vs. 7.61%) were improved (p < 0.05) in the group that received Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 (Exp II) compared to the control group. Moreover, the dystocia rate decreased (p < 0.05) in Exp II, which received Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 (4.21 vs. 27.63%), and in Exp I, which received the combination of Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 + CAP (12 vs. 40%) compared to the respective control groups. Colostrum production was greater (p < 0.05) in sows that received Vit 1,25-(OH)2D3 supplementation compared to the control group, consequently resulting in higher colostrum intake (p < 0.05) of the piglets (330 vs. 258 g/piglet). The additives reduced the incidence of diarrhea (p < 0.05) in piglets (Exp I and II). Thus, the use of additives improved the reproductive performance of sows and contributed to litter growth.

Risk factors for death and illness severity in vaccinated versus unvaccinated COVID-2019 inpatients: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical profile of COVID-19 inpatients who were vaccinated prior to hospitalization and to compare the risk factors for death and the 28-day survival rate of between those inpatients vaccinated with one, two, or three doses and unvaccinated COVID-19 inpatients. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational cohort study involving COVID-19 patients admitted to a referral hospital in the city of Recife, Brazil, between July of 2020 and June of 2022. RESULTS: The sample comprised 1,921 inpatients, 996 of whom (50.8%) were vaccinated prior to hospitalization. After adjusting the mortality risk for vaccinated patients, those undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) had the highest mortality risk (adjusted OR [aOR] = 7.4; 95% CI, 3.8-14.1; p < 0.001), followed by patients > 80 years of age (aOR = 7.3; 95% CI, 3.4-15.4; p < 0.001), and those needing vasopressors (aOR = 5.6; 95% CI, 2.9-10.9; p < 0.001). After adjusting the mortality risk for all patients, having received three vaccine doses (aOR = 0.06; 95% CI, 0.03-0.11; p < 0.001) was the most important protective factor against death. There were progressive benefits of vaccination, reducing the frequency of ICU admissions, use for IMV, and death (respectively, from 44.9%, 39.0% and 39.9% after the first dose to 16.7%, 6.2% and 4.4% after the third dose), as well as significant improvements in survival after each subsequent dose (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Vaccines were effective in reducing illness severity and death in this cohort of COVID-19 inpatients, and the administration of additional doses conferred them with accumulative vaccine protection.

Investigation of PRKN Mutations in Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia in Parkinson's Disease Treatment.

Mitophagy is an important process that participates in mitochondrial quality control. Dysfunctions in this process can be caused by mutations in genes like PRKN and are associated with the development and progression of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The most used drug in the treatment of PD is levodopa (LD), but it can cause adverse effects, such as dyskinesia. Currently, few studies are searching for biomarkers for an effective use of lLD for this disease, especially regarding mitophagy genetics. Thus, this work investigates the association of 14 variants of the PRKN gene with LD in the treatment of PD. We recruited 70 patients with PD undergoing treatment with LD (39 without dyskinesia and 31 with dyskinesia). Genotyping was based on Sanger sequencing. Our results reinforce that age at onset of symptoms, duration of PD, and treatment and dosage of LD can influence the occurrence of dyskinesia but not the investigated PRKN variants. The perspective presented here of variants of mitophagy-related genes in the context of treatment with LD is still underexplored, although an association has been indicated in previous studies. We suggest that other variants in PRKN or in other mitophagy genes may participate in the development of levodopa-induced dyskinesia in PD treatment.

Emergency cesarean section in dogs: Usefulness of amniotic fluid biochemical parameters and placental morphology as indicators of neonatal viability.

In recent years, special attention has been paid to the analysis of fetal fluids and placental histopathology to identify parameters that can be used as indicators of maternal reproductive quality, embryonic viability, and fetal and neonatal health. Newborn health reflects the functioning of the fetal adnexa and its relationship with maternal tissues. Therefore, evaluating these components is promising for the early detection of newborns at risk. This study aimed to detect the biochemical characteristics of the amniotic fluid (AF) and histopathological characteristics of the placenta for comparison between canine neonates born by elective (EL) and emergency (EM) cesarean sections (CSs) and associate the results with neonatal viability in the first 24 h. A total of 38 neonates born by ELCS (n = 19) and EMCS (n = 19) were selected. AF was collected to analyze the concentration of its biochemical components [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, urea, total protein, albumin, total and direct bilirubin, lactate, glucose, potassium, chloride, calcium, and sodium]. Histopathological processing of the placenta was used to describe the lesions and identify the arrangement of collagen fibers using hematoxylin-eosin and picrosirius staining. There was an increase in ALP activity (P = 0.035) and the concentrations of lactate (P < 0.001) and potassium (P = 0.031), and a decrease in chlorides (P < 0.001) in the AF of neonates in the EMCS group. The comparisons between the groups did not show differences between the presence and extent of lesions in the placenta; however, a difference was observed in the arrangement of collagen fibers in the placental structure. A comparison between AF and histopathological findings showed a negative correlation (r = -0.609, P = 0.003) between glucose concentration and the presence of necrosis in the placental labyrinth. It was observed that the composition of the AF changed owing to the influence of the type of cesarean, possibly caused by prolonged hypoxia in cases of dystocia. ALP activity and lactate, potassium, and chloride concentrations in the AF might be explored as markers of neonatal health in EMCS. Under the conditions of this study, no correlations were found between the placenta's histopathological characteristics and the neonates' viability.

Polyphenol Oxidase Products Are Priming Agents for LPMO Peroxygenase Activity.

Polyphenol oxidases catalyze the hydroxylation of monophenols to diphenols, which are reducing agents for lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) in their degradation of cellulose. In particular, the polyphenol oxidase MtPPO7 from Myceliophthora thermophila converts lignocellulose-derived monophenols, and under the new perspective of the peroxygenase reaction catalyzed by LPMOs, we aim to differentiate the role of the catalytic products of MtPPO7 in priming and fueling of LPMO activity. Exemplified by the activity of MtPPO7 towards guaiacol and by using the benchmark LPMO NcAA9C from Neurospora crassa we show that MtPPO7 catalytic products provide the initial electron for the reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) but cannot provide the required reducing power for continuous fueling of the LPMO. The priming reaction is shown to occur with catalytic amounts of MtPPO7 products and those compounds do not generate substantial amounts of H2 O2 in situ to fuel the LPMO peroxygenase activity. Reducing agents with a low propensity to generate H2 O2 can provide the means for controlling the LPMO catalysis through exogenous H2 O2 and thereby minimize any enzyme inactivation.

Does BRAF V600E mutation affect recurrence rate of ameloblastomas? Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to critically evaluate the available data on the association of the BRAF V600E mutation and recurrence rate of ameloblastomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review was registered in Prospero (CRD42020183645) and performed based on the PRISMA statement. A comprehensive search in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases was performed in order to answer the question "Does BRAF V600E mutation affect recurrence rate of ameloblastomas?" Methodological quality and risk of bias of the selected studies were assessed with JBI Critical Appraise Tool. Meta-analysis of quantitative data was conducted with RevMan 5.3 and Jamovi 2.3. RESULTS: The initial search identified 302 articles, and 21 met the inclusion criteria. A total of 855 subjects with ameloblastoma were included in the analysis. The pooled measures for frequency of BRAF V600E mutation was 65.30% (95% CI: 0.56-0.75; p < .001; I2 = 90.85%; τ = 0.205; p < .001), and the pooled recurrence rate was 25.30% (95% CI: 0.19-0.31; p < .001; I2 = 79.44%; τ = 0.118; p < .001). No differences in recurrence rate were observed between the BRAF V600E and wild type BRAF ameloblastomas, with a pooled Odds Ratio of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.56-1.54; p = .78; I2 = 31%; p = .09). CONCLUSIONS: BRAF V600E mutation is a frequent event in ameloblastomas, but does not increase nor reduce its recurrence rate, and thus have a limited value in predicting its prognosis.