Endocannabinoid regulation in the cervix during pregnancy: insights into molecular mechanisms of premature labor.

In brief: The cervix plays a crucial role not only in the maintenance of pregnancy but also during delivery, when it undergoes extensive changes. This study highlights the involvement of the endocannabinoidome in cervical remodeling, emphasizing its relevance in the shift from a nonpregnant to pregnant state and its potential contribution to preterm delivery in inflammatory contexts. Abstract: During pregnancy, the main role of the cervix is to isolate the fetus from outside pathogens and maintain the relatively closed system of uterine gestation. Conversely, toward the end of pregnancy, the cervix must be remodeled to increase flexibility and allow the delivery. This process is called cervical remodeling and dysregulation of the process plays a role in premature delivery. The endocannabinoidome plays an important role in several reproductive events; however, its function on cervical tissue throughout pregnancy is poorly understood. The goal of this study was to evaluate the presence and participation of the endocannabinoidome in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cervical changes. Therefore, we evaluated key components of the endocannabinoidome in cervical tissue from nonpregnant mice and pregnant mice with and without LPS treatment. Using mass spectrometric analysis, we found an increase in anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol in the cervix of pregnant mice when compared to nonpregnant mice. We have also found a reduction in FAAH protein expression in these tissues. Furthermore, when treated with LPS, we observed a reduction in the cervical immunostaining with anti-CB1 and anti-CB2 antibodies. Likewise, using cervix explants from pregnant mice, we found that LPS significantly increased cervical metalloprotease activity and cyclooxygenase 2, which were subsequently modulated by cannabinoid receptor antagonists. Collectively, our findings suggest that an LPS-induced imbalance of cervix endocannabinoidome likely contributes to premature cervical remodeling, which is part of the key components that contribute to premature delivery.

Oxytocin alleviates periodontitis in adult rats.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the expression of oxytocin receptors in normal and inflamed gingiva, as well as the effects of systemic administration of oxytocin in bone loss and gum inflammatory mediators in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. BACKGROUND DATA: Current evidence supports the hypothesis of a disbalance between the oral microbiota and the host's immune response in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Increased complexity of the microbial biofilm present in the periodontal pocket leads to local production of nitrogen and oxygen-reactive species, cytokines, chemokines, and other proinflammatory mediators which contribute to periodontal tissue destruction and bone loss. Oxytocin has been suggested to participate in the modulation of immune and inflammatory processes. We have previously shown that oxytocin, nitric oxide, and endocannabinoid system interact providing a mechanism of regulation for systemic inflammation. Here, we aimed at investigating not only the presence and levels of expression of oxytocin receptors on healthy and inflamed gingiva, but also the effects of oxytocin treatment on alveolar bone loss, and systemic and gum expression of inflammatory mediators involved in periodontal tissue damage using ligature-induced periodontitis. Therefore, anti-inflammatory strategies oriented at modulating the host's immune response could be valuable adjuvants to the main treatment of periodontal disease. METHODS: We used an animal model of ligature-induced periodontitis involving the placement of a linen thread (Barbour flax 100% linen suture, No. 50; size 2/0) ligature around the neck of first lower molars of adult male rats. The ligature was left in place during the entire experiment (7 days) until euthanasia. Animals with periodontitis received daily treatment with oxytocin (OXT, 1000 µg/kg, sc.) or vehicle and/or atosiban (3 mg/kg, sc.), an antagonist of oxytocin receptors. The distance between the cement-enamel junction and the alveolar bone crest was measured in stained hemimandibles in the long axis of both buccal and lingual surfaces of both inferior first molars using a caliper. TNF-α levels in plasma were determined using specific rat enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). OXT receptors, IL-6, IL-1ß, and TNF-α expression were determined in gingival tissues by semiquantitative or real-time PCR. RESULTS: We show that oxytocin receptors are expressed in normal and inflamed gingival tissues in male rats. We also show that the systemic administration of oxytocin prevents the experimental periodontitis-induced increased gum expression of oxytocin receptors, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1ß (p < .05). Furthermore, we observed a reduction in bone loss in rats treated with oxytocin in our model. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that oxytocin is a novel and potent modulator of the gingival inflammatory process together with bone loss preventing effects in an experimental model of ligature-induced periodontitis.

ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM IN THE PARAVENTRICULAR NUCLEUS OF THE HYPOTHALAMUS MODULATES AUTONOMIC AND CARDIOVASCULAR CHANGES BUT NOT VASOPRESSIN RESPONSE IN A RAT HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK MODEL.

ABSTRACT: We evaluated the participation of the endocannabinoid system in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) on the cardiovascular, autonomic, and plasma vasopressin (AVP) responses evoked by hemorrhagic shock in rats. For this, the PVN was bilaterally treated with either vehicle, the selective cannabinoid receptor type 1 antagonist AM251, the selective fatty acid amide hydrolase amide enzyme inhibitor URB597, the selective monoacylglycerol-lipase enzyme inhibitor JZL184, or the selective transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 antagonist capsazepine. We evaluated changes on arterial pressure, heart rate, tail skin temperature (ST), and plasma AVP responses induced by bleeding, which started 10 min after PVN treatment. We observed that bilateral microinjection of AM251 into the PVN reduced the hypotension during the hemorrhage and prevented the return of blood pressure to baseline values in the posthemorrhagic period. Inhibition of local 2-arachidonoylglycerol metabolism by PVN treatment with JZL184 induced similar effects in relation to those observed in AM251-treated animals. Inhibition of local anandamide metabolism via PVN treatment with URB597 decreased the depressor effect and ST drop induced by the hemorrhagic stimulus. Bilateral microinjection of capsazepine mitigated the fall in blood pressure and ST. None of the PVN treatments altered the increased plasma concentration of AVP and tachycardia induced by hemorrhage. Taken together, present results suggest that endocannabinoid neurotransmission within the PVN plays a prominent role in cardiovascular and autonomic, but not neuroendocrine, responses evoked by hemorrhage.

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE OUTCOMES OF OLDER PATIENTS OPERATED DUE TO HIP FRACTURES.

Objective: Evaluating clinical factors associated with mortality in older patients who underwent surgical correction of hip fractures. Methods: This observational and retrospective study analyzed the medical records of 67 patients (aged older than 60 years), both men and women, who underwent surgical correction of hip fractures from 2019 to 2020 at Hospital São Paulo. The following variables were analyzed: age, sex, presence of comorbidities, affected hip region, and trauma mechanism. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software. Results: The mean age of patients was 78.12 ± 9.80 years and 80.6% of the sample were women. The prevalence of hip fractures on the right side (52.2%), in the transtrochanteric region (53.7%), and due to fall on the same level (88.1%) was higher. Systemic arterial hypertension (77.6%), diabetes mellitus (37.3%), and dementia (16.4%) were frequent comorbidities. The prevalence of death after fracture was 17.9% and it was associated with longer hospital stay after surgery (p = 0.028). Conclusion: The prevalence of mortality of patients with hip fractures who underwent surgery was 17.9%. A longer hospital stay due to pre-existing comorbidities was the main factor related to this outcome. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores clínicos associados à mortalidade em pacientes idosos submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico para correção de fraturas do quadril. Métodos: Estudo observacional e retrospectivo de análise de prontuários de 67 pacientes (idade superior a 60 anos). Foram incluídos indivíduos de ambos os sexos, submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico para correção de fraturas do quadril, entre 2019 e 2020, no Hospital São Paulo. Foram analisadas as variáveis: idade, sexo, presença de comorbidades, região do quadril acometido e mecanismo de trauma. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas pelo software SPSS. Resultados: A idade média dos participantes foi de 78,12 ± 9,80 anos, e 80,6% da amostra era constituída por mulheres. Houve maior prevalência de fraturas do quadril no lado direito (52,2%), na região transtrocantérica (53,7%) e causada por queda sem desnível (88,1%). Hipertensão arterial sistêmica (77,6%), diabetes mellitus (37,3%) e demência (16,4%) foram frequentes. A prevalência de óbito após a fratura foi de 17,9%, sendo associada a maior tempo de internação hospitalar após a cirurgia (p = 0,028). Conclusão: A prevalência de mortalidade dos pacientes com fratura do quadril submetidos à cirurgia foi de 17,9%. O tempo prolongando de internação hospitalar por comorbidades pré-existentes foi o principal fator relacionado a este desfecho. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo.

The medial prefrontal cortex and the cardiac baroreflex activity: physiological and pathological implications.

The cardiac baroreflex is an autonomic neural mechanism involved in the modulation of the cardiovascular system. It influences the heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance to preserve arterial blood pressure within a narrow variation range. This mechanism is mainly controlled by medullary nuclei located in the brain stem. However, supramedullary areas, such as the ventral portion of medial prefrontal cortex (vMPFC), are also involved. Particularly, the glutamatergic NMDA/NO pathway in the vMPFC can facilitate baroreflex bradycardic and tachycardic responses. In addition, cannabinoid receptors in this same area can reduce or increase those cardiac responses, possibly through alteration in glutamate release. This vMPFC network has been associated to cardiovascular responses during stressful situations. Recent results showed an involvement of glutamatergic, nitrergic, and endocannabinoid systems in the blood pressure and heart rate increases in animals after aversive conditioning. Consequently, baroreflex could be modified by the vMPFC neurotransmission during stressful situations, allowing necessary cardiovascular adjustments. Remarkably, some mental, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders can involve damage in the vMPFC, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, Alzheimer's disease, and neuropathic pain. These pathologies are also associated with alterations in glutamate/NO release and endocannabinoid functions along with baroreflex impairment. Thus, the vMPFC seems to play a crucial role on the baroreflex control, either during pathological or physiological stress-related responses. The study of baroreflex mechanism under such pathological view may be helpful to establish causality mechanisms for the autonomic and cardiovascular imbalance found in those conditions. It can explain in the future the reasons of the high cardiovascular risk some neurological and neurodegenerative disease patients undergo. Additionally, the present work offers insights on the possible contributions of vMPFC dysfunction on baroreflex alterations, which, in turn, may raise questions in what extent other brain areas may play a role in autonomic deregulation under such pathological situations.

Cognitive Deficits Found in a Pro-inflammatory State are Independent of ERK1/2 Signaling in the Murine Brain Hippocampus Treated with Shiga Toxin 2 from Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli.

Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) from enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) produces hemorrhagic colitis, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and acute encephalopathy. The mortality rate in HUS increases significantly when the central nervous system (CNS) is involved. Besides, EHEC also releases lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Many reports have described cognitive dysfunctions in HUS patients, the hippocampus being one of the brain areas targeted by EHEC infection. In this context, a translational murine model of encephalopathy was employed to establish the deleterious effects of Stx2 and the contribution of LPS in the hippocampus. The purpose of this work is to elucidate the signaling pathways that may activate the inflammatory processes triggered by Stx2, which produces cognitive alterations at the level of the hippocampus. Results demonstrate that Stx2 produced depression-like behavior, pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and NF-kB activation independent of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, while co-administration of Stx2 and LPS reduced memory index. On the other hand, LPS activated NF-kB dependent on ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Cotreatment of Stx2 with LPS aggravated the pathologic state, while dexamethasone treatment succeeded in preventing behavioral alterations. Our present work suggests that the use of drugs such as corticosteroids or NF-kB signaling inhibitors may serve as neuroprotectors from EHEC infection.

Corneal ectasia detection by epithelial pattern standard deviation from OCT.

PURPOSE: To test the ability of the corneal epithelial pattern standard deviation (PSD) to distinguish between normal and cases with corneal ectatic condition. SETTING: Instituto de Olhos Renato Ambrósio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. DESIGN: Cross-sectional retrospective study. METHODS: Patients were stratified into 4 groups based on clinical data and corneal tomography. Groups 1 and 2 comprised 1 eye randomly selected from 105 patients with normal corneas (N) and 86 patients with bilateral keratoconus (KC). Groups 3 and 4, respectively, comprised 11 ectatic eyes with no surgical treatment for KC (very asymmetric ectasia [VAE]-E) from patients whose fellow eyes (61) presented with normal topographic patterns (VAE-NT). Corneas were scanned using an OCT system (RT Vue) and Scheimpflug corneal tomography (Pentacam) and also had biomechanical assessment through the Corvis ST. Corneal epithelial thickness maps were analyzed, and the PSD value was calculated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the indices. RESULTS: A total of 105 normal eyes, 86 keratoconic eyes, and 11 ectatic eyes whose fellow eyes (61) presented normal topographic patterns were evaluated. Epithelial PSD was significantly different across the 4 groups ( P < .0001). The pairwise comparison revealed that the normal group presented significantly lower values than both ectasia groups (KC and VAE-E, P < .0001) and the VAE-NT group ( P = .0008). There was no statistical significant difference between KC and VAE-E ( P = .4284), while they were significantly higher than the VAE-NT group ( P < .0001 and P = .0004). CONCLUSIONS: Epithelial PSD can be used to detect abnormal epithelial thickness patterns. Corneal epithelial thickness changes could be detected accurately in patients with KC, even in the form fruste of the disease.

Factors associated with the outcomes of older patients operated due to hip fractures / Fatores associados aos desfechos de pacientes idosos operados por fraturas do quadril

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluating clinical factors associated with mortality in older patients who underwent surgical correction of hip fractures. Methods: This observational and retrospective study analyzed the medical records of 67 patients (aged older than 60 years), both men and women, who underwent surgical correction of hip fractures from 2019 to 2020 at Hospital São Paulo. The following variables were analyzed: age, sex, presence of comorbidities, affected hip region, and trauma mechanism. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software. Results: The mean age of patients was 78.12 ± 9.80 years and 80.6% of the sample were women. The prevalence of hip fractures on the right side (52.2%), in the transtrochanteric region (53.7%), and due to fall on the same level (88.1%) was higher. Systemic arterial hypertension (77.6%), diabetes mellitus (37.3%), and dementia (16.4%) were frequent comorbidities. The prevalence of death after fracture was 17.9% and it was associated with longer hospital stay after surgery (p = 0.028). Conclusion: The prevalence of mortality of patients with hip fractures who underwent surgery was 17.9%. A longer hospital stay due to pre-existing comorbidities was the main factor related to this outcome. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores clínicos associados à mortalidade em pacientes idosos submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico para correção de fraturas do quadril. Métodos: Estudo observacional e retrospectivo de análise de prontuários de 67 pacientes (idade superior a 60 anos). Foram incluídos indivíduos de ambos os sexos, submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico para correção de fraturas do quadril, entre 2019 e 2020, no Hospital São Paulo. Foram analisadas as variáveis: idade, sexo, presença de comorbidades, região do quadril acometido e mecanismo de trauma. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas pelo software SPSS. Resultados: A idade média dos participantes foi de 78,12 ± 9,80 anos, e 80,6% da amostra era constituída por mulheres. Houve maior prevalência de fraturas do quadril no lado direito (52,2%), na região transtrocantérica (53,7%) e causada por queda sem desnível (88,1%). Hipertensão arterial sistêmica (77,6%), diabetes mellitus (37,3%) e demência (16,4%) foram frequentes. A prevalência de óbito após a fratura foi de 17,9%, sendo associada a maior tempo de internação hospitalar após a cirurgia (p = 0,028). Conclusão: A prevalência de mortalidade dos pacientes com fratura do quadril submetidos à cirurgia foi de 17,9%. O tempo prolongando de internação hospitalar por comorbidades pré-existentes foi o principal fator relacionado a este desfecho. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo.

Educación dirigida a personas con diabetes: abordajes pedagógicos, teóricos y prácticos en tensión / Education aimed at people with Diabetes Mellitus: pedagogical, theoretical and practical approaches in tension / Educação para pessoas com diabetes: abordagens pedagógicas, teóricas e práticas em tensão

Resumen La educación para personas con Diabetes Mellitus (DM) representa un desafío en el campo de la salud pública. Presentamos una propuesta teórica que orienta el análisis pedagógico de la educación para la salud en personas con DM, a partir de un proceso de investigación documental. Los hallazgos evidenciaron la existencia de diferentes perspectivas teóricas en tensión sobre la educación en personas con DM que luchan por la legitimación, que pueden agruparse en dos tendencias, una tradicional y la otra crítica. Se presenta una propuesta guiada desde la teoría pedagógica y la salud pública para explicar los hallazgos. La teoría construida pretende evidenciar la configuración de corrientes educativas como resultado de los debates y las luchas teóricas, políticas y epistemológicas que se dan en la intersección de los campos de la salud pública y la pedagogía. (AU)

Abstract Education for people with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) represents a challenge in the field of public health. We present a theoretical proposal that guides the pedagogical analysis of health education for people with DM, based on a documentary research process. The findings evidenced the existence of different theoretical perspectives in tension about education in people with DM that struggle for legitimacy, which can be grouped into two tendencies, one traditional and the other critical. A proposal guided by pedagogical theory and public health is presented to explain the findings. The theory constructed intends to evidence the configuration of educational currents as a result of the debates and theoretical, political and epistemological struggles that occur at the intersection of the fields of public health and pedagogy. (AU)

Resumo A educação para pessoas com Diabetes Mellitus (DM) representa um desafio no campo da saúde pública. Apresentamos uma proposta teórica que orienta a análise pedagógica da educação em saúde em pessoas com DM, a partir de um processo de pesquisa documental. Os achados evidenciaram a existência de diferentes perspectivas teóricas em tensão sobre a educação em pessoas com DM que lutam por legitimação, que podem ser agrupadas em duas correntes, uma tradicional e outra crítica. Uma proposta pautada na teoria pedagógica e na saúde pública é apresentada para explicar os achados. A teoria construída visa mostrar a configuração das correntes educacionais como resultado dos debates e lutas teóricas, políticas e epistemológicas que ocorrem na intersecção dos campos da saúde pública e da pedagogia. (AU)

Sistematización de una sistematización: aprendizajes sobre el método / Systematization of a systematization: learning about the method / Sistematização de uma sistematização: aprendizagem sobre o método

Resumen Objetivo: presentar los aprendizajes de una sistematización como método, para la construcción de conocimiento basado en la experiencia vivida por los propios investigadores de varios proyectos sobre la educación en crianza, en el campo de la salud pública, llevado a cabo en la vereda Granizal, Antioquia, durante el período 2013-2019. Materiales y método: se empleó la sistematización de experiencias y los participantes fueron los mismos investigadores. Se inició con la organización de los materiales, los diarios de campo de los círculos de investigación temática y relatorías de las reuniones del equipo de investigación y de los actores comunitarios. Se siguió con la elaboración de una matriz con la recuperación histórica. Y, finalmente, de las reflexiones grupales, surgieron categorías y relaciones para la construcción teórica de visión de conjunto. Resultados: se presenta la propuesta teórica de la sistematización y los procedimientos para implementarla, orientada por cinco momentos: vivir la experiencia, formular un plan de sistematización, recuperar el proceso vivido, las reflexiones de fondo y los puntos de llegada. Se destacan cuatro rasgos de la sistematización: una investigación creativa; basada en un proceso de construcción colectiva; para aprender de la práctica y construir conocimiento; y como escenario transformador de esta y de quienes la realizaron. Conclusión: la "sistematización de la sistematización" permitió hacer conciencia sobre la propia praxis investigativa. Muestra la comprensión del grupo acerca de la conceptualización y metodología de esta perspectiva investigativa. Trasciende la recopilación y organización de la información del proceso vivido en la medida en que la reconstrucción de la experiencia es una comprensión más amplia que transforma la práctica de los sujetos involucrados.

Abstract Objective: to present the learning of a systematization as a method, for the construction of knowledge based on the experience lived by the researchers of several projects on parenting education in the field of public health carried out in the rural settlement of Granizal, Antioquia, during the period 2013-2019. Materials and method: the systematization of experiences was used and the participants were the researchers. It began with the organization of the materials, the field diaries of the thematic research circles and reports of the meetings of the research team and community actors. It was continued with the elaboration of a matrix with the historical recovery. And, finally, reflections, categories and relationships emerged from the group for the theoretical construction of the overall vision. Results: the theoretical proposal of the systematization and the procedures to implement it are presented, guided by five moments: living the experience, formulating a systematization plan, recovering the lived process, the background reflections and the arrival points. Four features of systematization stand out: creative research; research based on a process of collective construction; learning from practice and building knowledge; and as a transforming scenario of this research and of those who carried it out. Conclusion: the "systematization of the systematization" allowed raising awareness of the research praxis itself. It shows the understanding of the group on conceptualization and methodology of this research perspective. It transcends the collection and organization of the information of the process lived to the extent that the reconstruction of the experience is a broader understanding that transforms the practice of the subjects involved.

Resumo Objetivo: apresentar as aprendizagens de uma sistematização como método, para a construção de conhecimento baseado na experiência vivida pelos próprios pesquisadores de vários projetos sobre a educação em criação, no campo da saúde pública, levado a cabo no povoado Granizal, Antioquia, durante o período 2013-2019. Materiais e método: utilizou-se a sistematização de experiências os participantes foram os mesmos pesquisadores. Iniciou-se com a organização dos materiais, os diários de campo dos círculos de pesquisa temática e relatorias das reuniões da equipe de pesquisa e dos atores comunitários. Conseguiu-se com a elaboração de uma matriz com a recuperação histórica. E, finalmente, das reflexões grupais, surgiram categorias e relações para a construção teórica de visão de conjunto. Resultados: apresenta-se a proposta teórica da sistematização e os procedimentos para implementá-la, orientada por cinco momentos: viver a experiência, formular um plano de sistematização, recuperar os processos vividos, as reflexões de fundo e os pontos de chegada. Destacam-se quatro rasgos da sistematização: uma pesquisa criativa; baseada em um processo de construção coletiva; para aprender da prática e construir conhecimento; e como cenário transformador desta e de quem a realizaram. Conclusão: a "sistematização da sistematização" permitiu fazer consciência sobre a própria práxis pesquisaria. Amostra a compreensão do grupo acerca da conceptualização e metodologia desta perspectiva pesquisaria. Trascende a recopilação e organização da informação do processo vivido na medida em que a reconstrução da experiência é uma compreensão mais ampla que transforma a prática dos sujeitos envolvidos.

Endocannabinoid System in the Neuroendocrine Response to Lipopolysaccharide-induced Immune Challenge.

The endocannabinoid system plays a key role in the intersection of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, regulating not only their functions but also how they interplay with each other. Endogenous ligands, named endocannabinoids, are produced "on demand" to finely regulate the synthesis and secretion of hormones and neurotransmitters, as well as to regulate the production of cytokines and other proinflammatory mediators. It is well known that immune challenges, such as exposure to lipopolysaccharide, the main component of the Gram-negative bacteria cell wall, disrupt not only the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis but also affects other endocrine systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and the release of oxytocin from the neurohypophysis. Here we explore which actors and molecular mechanisms are involved in these processes.

NMDA receptors in the insular cortex modulate cardiovascular and autonomic but not neuroendocrine responses to restraint stress in rats.

The insular cortex (IC) is a brain structure involved in physiological and behavioural responses during stressful events. However, the local neurochemical mechanisms involved in control of stress responses by the IC are poorly understood. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the involvement of glutamatergic neurotransmission within the IC in cardiovascular, autonomic and neuroendocrine responses to an acute session of restraint stress. For this, the selective NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist LY235959 (1 nmol/100 nL) or the selective non-NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist NBQX (1 nmol/100 nL) were microinjected into the IC 10 min before the onset of the 60 min session of restraint stress. We observed that the antagonism of NMDA receptors within the IC enhanced the restraint-evoked increase in arterial pressure and heart rate, while blockade of non-NMDA receptors did not affect these cardiovascular responses. Spontaneous baroreflex analysis demonstrated that microinjection of LY235959 into the IC decreased baroreflex activity during restraint stress. The decrease in tail skin temperature during restraint stress was shifted to an increase in animals treated with the NMDA receptor antagonist. Nevertheless, the blockade of either NMDA or non-NMDA glutamate receptors within the IC did not affect the increase in circulating corticosterone levels during restraint stress. Overall, our findings provide evidence that IC glutamatergic neurotransmission, acting via local NMDA receptors, plays a prominent role in the control of autonomic and cardiovascular responses to restraint stress, but without affecting neuroendocrine adjustments.

Fat replacement by green banana biomass: Impact on the technological, nutritional and dynamic sensory profiling of chicken mortadella.

Reducing the fat content of processed meat products has become necessary due to consumer-driven demand for healthier foods. In this sense, this study aimed to characterize chicken mortadella with total and partial replacement of chicken skin by green banana biomass (GBB). Five treatments (with two repetitions each and weighing 400 g) were prepared: F0 (control treatment formulated with 100% chicken skin), F1, F2, F3, and F4 (25, 50, 75, and 100% of chicken skin replacement by GBB, respectively). Samples were characterized according to physicochemical composition - approximate composition, energy value, pH, water activity (Aw), emulsion stability (ES), water-holding capacity (WHC), instrumental color (L*, a* and b*), instrumental texture, fatty acid profile, and microstructure) - nutritional quality and sensory properties (dynamic profiling by Temporal Check-all-that-apply and acceptance). The replacement of 100% chicken skin by GBB increased the WHC of mortadella and did not affect the ES in all formulations. The addition of GBB did not affect the typical mortadella flavor of the samples, and the dominance of the flavor was directed towards the fibrous and fat flavor attributes. In addition, all formulations had acceptance scores above 6.5. Based on the results, replacement up to 100% of chicken skin with GBB is possible and obtains a healthier emulsified meat product with good sensory acceptance.

The AT-1 Angiotensin Receptor is Involved in the Autonomic and Neuroendocrine Responses to Acute Restraint Stress in Male Rats.

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is involved in cardiovascular and hydroelectrolytic control, being associated with the development of hypertension. The restraint stress (RS) model is an aversive situation, which promotes a sustained increase in blood pressure and heart rate, and stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Stress leads to an increase of angiotensin-II contents both in the circulation and the central nervous system (CNS), as well as an increased expression of AT-1 receptors in CNS structures related to stress. Stressful stimuli are associated with the modulation of autonomic nervous system, as well as baroreflex; changes in this adjustment mechanism are related to cardiovascular diseases. We hypothesized that RAS is involved in the modulation of autonomic, neuroendocrine, and functional RS-caused alterations. The intravenous (i.v) pretreatment of rats with lisinopril, an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor, reduced the RS-evoked pressor response. The doses of 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg also reduced the RS-evoked tachycardia, while in the dose of 1 mg/kg of lisinopril potentiated the tachycardic one. Additionally, i.v. pretreatment with losartan, a selective AT-1 receptor antagonist, reduced the pressor and the tachycardic responses caused by RS. Pretreatment with lisinopril 0.3 mg/kg increased the power of the low frequency (LF) band of the systolic BP spectrum after the treatment without affecting this parameter during RS. The pretreatment with losartan 1 mg/kg increased the power of the high frequency (HF) band and reduced the LF (n.u.) and the LF/HF ratio of the pulse interval spectrum in the first hour of RS. Concerning baroreflex sensitiveness (SBR), pretreatments with losartan or lisinopril did not affect the gain of the baroreflex sequences. However, the pretreatment with losartan reduced the baroreflex effectiveness index of the total sequences in the third hour of the RS. These results indicate that Ang-II, via the AT-1 receptor, plays a facilitating influence on the cardiovascular response caused by RS; facilitates sympathetic activation and reduces parasympathetic activity related to RS; facilitates the baroreflex activation during RS and favors corticosterone release under this stress model. The impairment of Ang-II synthesis, as well as the blockade of AT-1 receptors, may constitute an important pharmacological strategy to treat cardiovascular consequences caused by stress.

Quartzite Mining Waste: Diagnosis of ASR Alkali-Silica Reaction in Mortars and Portland Cement Concrete.

The main objective was to determine the deleterious potential of quartzite mining tailings subjected to different ASR alkali-silica reaction tests. The studies included petrographic analysis, chemical analysis of cements, expansion tests in mortar bars and concrete prisms, and microstructural analysis. Petrographic analysis of quartzites indicated high percentages of deformed quartz (95%), and were classified as potentially reactive. Two types of HES high early strength cement with alkaline equivalents of 0.749% and 0.61%, respectively, were selected. Of the 8 samples analyzed by the accelerated method in mortars, only 2 quartzite samples and 1 diabasium sample indicated potentially reactive behavior. The accelerated and long-term methods in concrete prisms proved to be effective and were consistent with the deleterious potential of the samples. All analyzed samples were diagnosed with the ASR gel. In the microstructural analysis, in addition to the ASR products, other expansive products of late ettringite were detected. Reaction mitigation methods are proposed so that quartzite waste can be used as an alternative aggregate in concrete, and thus contribute to the reduction of mine tailings and, consequently, reduce the negative environmental impact from mining.

Quantitative assessment of pilot-endured workloads during helicopter flying emergencies: an analysis of physiological parameters during an autorotation.

The procedures to be performed after sudden engine failure of a single-engine helicopter impose high workload on pilots. The maneuver to regain aircraft control and safe landing is called autorotation. The safety limits to conduct this maneuver are based on the aircraft height versus speed diagram, which is also known as "Dead Man's Curve". Flight-test pilots often use subjective methods to assess the difficulty to conduct maneuvers in the vicinity of this curve. We carried out an extensive flight test campaign to verify the feasibility of establishing quantitative physiological parameters to better assess the workload endured by pilots undergoing those piloting conditions. Eleven pilots were fully instrumented with sensors and had their physiological reactions collected during autorotation maneuvers. Our analyses suggested that physiological measurements (heart rate and electrodermal activity) can be successfully recorded and useful to capture the most effort-demanding effects during the maneuvers. Additionally, the helicopter's flight controls displacements were also recorded, as well as the pilots' subjective responses evaluated by the Handling Qualities Rate scale. Our results revealed that the degree of cognitive workload was associated with the helicopter's flight profile concerning the Height-Speed diagram and that the strain intensity showed a correlation with measurable physiological responses. Recording flight controls displacement and quantifying the pilot's subjective responses show themselves as natural effective candidates to evaluate the intensity of cognitive workload in such maneuvers.

N-Methyl-D-aspartate Glutamate Receptor Modulates Cardiovascular and Neuroendocrine Responses Evoked by Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats.

Here, we report the participation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptor in the mediation of cardiovascular and circulating vasopressin responses evoked by a hemorrhagic stimulus. In addition, once NMDA receptor activation is a prominent mechanism involved in nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in the brain, we investigated whether control of hemorrhagic shock by NMDA glutamate receptor was followed by changes in NO synthesis in brain supramedullary structures involved in cardiovascular and neuroendocrine control. Thus, we observed that intraperitoneal administration of the selective NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist dizocilpine maleate (MK801, 0.3 mg/kg) delayed and reduced the magnitude of hemorrhage-induced hypotension. Besides, hemorrhage induced a tachycardia response in the posthemorrhage period (i.e., recovery period) in control animals, and systemic treatment with MK801 caused a bradycardia response during hemorrhagic shock. Hemorrhagic stimulus increased plasma vasopressin levels during the recovery period and NMDA receptor antagonism increased concentration of this hormone during both the hemorrhage and postbleeding periods in relation to control animals. Moreover, hemorrhagic shock caused a decrease in NOx levels in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), and ventral periaqueductal gray matter (vPAG). Nevertheless, treatment with MK801 did not affect these effects. Taken together, these results indicate that the NMDA glutamate receptor is involved in the hemorrhagic shock by inhibiting circulating vasopressin release. Our data also suggest a role of the NMDA receptor in tachycardia, but not in the decreased NO synthesis in the brain evoked by hemorrhage.