Development and Evaluation of Microencapsulated Oregano Essential Oil as an Alternative Treatment for Candida albicans Infections.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is characterized as a very common fungal infection that significantly affects women's health worldwide. Essential oils (EOs) are currently being evaluated as an alternative therapy. The development of efficient techniques such as micro- or nanoencapsulation for protecting and controlling release is essential to overcome the limitations of EO applications. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and characterize oregano EO-loaded keratin microparticles (OEO-KMPs) as a potential treatment for VVC. OEO-KMPs were produced using high-intensity ultrasonic cycles and characterized in terms of morphological and physicochemical parameters. In vitro evaluation included assessing the toxicity of the OEO-KMPs and their effect against Candida albicans using microdilution and agar diffusion, while the activity against biofilm was quantified using colony forming units (CFU). The efficacy of the OEO-KMPs in an in vivo VVC mouse model was also studied. Female BALB/c mice were intravaginally infected with C. albicans, 24 h postinfection animals were treated intravaginally with 15 µL of OEO-KMPs and 24 h later vaginal fluid was analyzed for C. albicans and Lactobacillus growth (CFU mL-1). The results showed the stability of the OEO-KMPs over time, with high encapsulation efficiency and controlled release. This nanoparticle size facilitated penetration and completely inhibited the planktonic growth of C. albicans. In addition, an in vitro application of 2.5% of the OEO-KMPs eradicated mature C. albicans biofilms while preserving Lactobacillus species. In in vivo, a single intravaginal application of OEO-KMPs induced a reduction in C. albicans growth, while maintaining Lactobacillus species. In conclusion, this therapeutic approach with OEO-KMPs is promising as a potential alternative or complementary therapy for VVC while preserving vaginal microflora.

Glycemic variability after mechanical thrombectomy for anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke. / Variabilidad glucémica tras trombectomía mecánica en el ictus isquémico agudo de la circulación anterior.

INTRODUCTION: Morbidity remains high among patients who undergo successful mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO). Stress hyperglycemia worsens the prognosis after acute ischemic stroke (AIS), but aggressively treating hyperglycemia does not improve the outcome. There is no consensus on how to best manage glycemia after AIS. Glycemic variability (GV) reflects glycemic fluctuations over time and could be the culprit. We aimed to elucidate how GV impacts outcome of AIS patients treated with MT. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a single-center retrospective study. We consecutively included AIS patients who received MT for anterior circulation LVO. We recorded discrete blood glucose measurements within the first 24 hours post thrombectomy, from which we calculated two measures of GV: standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify predictors of poor functional outcome (modified Ranking scale score 3-6) and mortality at 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: We included 657 patients. Patients with poor functional outcome (42.5%) and patients that died (14.8%) had significantly higher GV as measured by SD. In a multivariable model adjusted for confounders, higher SD was associated with mortality -adjusted odds ratio: 1.020 (95% CI 1.001-1.040)- but not with functional outcome -adjusted odds ratio for modified Ranking scale score 3-6: 1.007 (95% CI 0.990-1.025)-. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that higher GV after MT for anterior circulation AIS is an independent risk factor for 3-month mortality. Future trials should evaluate the benefit of reducing GV in this setting.

TITLE: Variabilidad glucémica tras trombectomía mecánica en el ictus isquémico agudo de la circulación anterior.Introducción. La morbilidad de los pacientes con ictus isquémico agudo (IIA) sometidos a trombectomía mecánica (TM) exitosa permanece alta. La hiperglucemia empeora el pronóstico tras un IIA, pero tratarla agresivamente no mejora los resultados. No existe consenso sobre el tratamiento óptimo de la glucemia después de un IIA. La variabilidad glucémica (VG), que refleja las fluctuaciones glucémicas a lo largo del tiempo, puede ser un factor importante. Nuestro objetivo fue investigar cómo la VG afecta el resultado de pacientes con IIA tratados con TM. Pacientes y métodos. Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo unicéntrico que incluyó a pacientes con IIA que recibieron TM para la oclusión de un gran vaso de la circulación anterior. Se registraron mediciones discretas de glucemia en las primeras 24 horas postrombectomía, a partir de las cuales se calcularon dos medidas de VG: desviación estándar y coeficiente de variación. Se realizó un análisis univariado y multivariado para identificar predictores de resultado funcional desfavorable (escala de Rankin modificada: 3-6) y mortalidad a los tres meses. Resultados. Se incluyó a 657 pacientes. Los que tenían una puntuación en la escala de Rankin modificada = 3 (42,5%) y los fallecidos (14,8%) tuvieron una VG significativamente mayor medida por desviación estándar. En un modelo multivariado, una mayor desviación estándar se asoció de forma independiente con la mortalidad ­odds ratio ajustada: 1,02 (intervalo de confianza al 95%: 1,001-1,04)­ pero no con el resultado funcional ­odds ratio ajustada de la escala de Rankin modificada = 3: 1,007 (intervalo de confianza al 95%: 0,99-1,025)­. Conclusiones. Nuestros resultados sugieren que una mayor VG tras la TM para el IIA de la circulación anterior es un factor de riesgo independiente de mortalidad a los tres meses. Los futuros ensayos deben evaluar el beneficio de reducir la VG en este contexto.

Highly-selective optical filter for NADH fluorescence detection in multiphoton microscopy.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a pressing global health concern, emphasizing the need for early detection tools. In this study an optical filter for precise detection of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) fluorescence via two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) was developed. Fabricated with silicon dioxide and titanium dioxide thin films in a Fabry-Perot structure, the filter achieved a peak transmittance of about 95% at 483 nm, with a 12 nm full-width at half maximum. TPEF measurements using a tailored setup and NADH liquid phantoms underscored the filter's significance in selectively capturing NADH fluorescence while mitigating interference from other fluorophores. This work marks a substantial stride towards integrating multiphoton microscopy into conventional colonoscopy, enabling non-invasive, objective optical biopsy for colorectal tissue analysis. Further refinements of the experimental setup are imperative to advance tissue differentiation and enhance CRC diagnosis.

The inhibitor of the redox activity of APE1/REF-1, APX2009, reduces the malignant phenotype of breast cancer cells.

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/REF-1) is a multifunctional protein acting on cellular signaling pathways, including DNA repair and redox activities. APE1/REF-1 has emerged as a target for cancer therapy, and its role in breast cancer models would reveal new strategies for cancer therapy. APX2009 is a specific APE1/REF-1 redox inhibitor whose anticancer properties have not been described in breast cancer cells. Here, we investigated the effect of the APX2009 treatment in the breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. Breast cancer cell lines were cultured, and WST1 and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation. Annexin V-FITC/7-AAD and LDH-Glo™ assays were performed to evaluate cell death. The wound healing assay and Matrigel transwell assay were performed after APX2009 treatment to evaluate the cellular migration and invasion processes, respectively. Our findings demonstrated that APX2009 treatment decreased breast cancer cell proliferative, migratory, and invasive properties. Furthermore, it induced apoptosis in both cell lines. Our study is the first to show the effects of APX2009 treatment on apoptosis in a breast cancer cell. Therefore, this study suggested that APX2009 treatment is a promising anticancer molecule for breast cancer.

Synthesis of temporomandibular disorders management intervention outcomes for development of core outcome sets: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The selection of appropriate outcomes in clinical trials and systematic reviews is a crucial factor in determining the results that are useful, reliable, and relevant for both patients and healthcare professionals. Clinicians and researchers have been encouraged to develop and apply core outcome sets (COS) to minimise the discrepancy between studies. AIM: This systematic review is the first phase of the COS development project for clinical trials in temporomandibular disorders (COS-TMD). It aims to identify and synthesise the outcomes used in the randomised controlled trials (RCT) that evaluated the effectiveness of interventions used in TMD management. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search was performed in several databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and EMBASE. The eligibility criteria comprised RCT that applied any intervention to treat temporomandibular joint disorders or masticatory muscle disorders. The identified outcomes were categorised according to domains of the Initiative on Methods, Measurement and Pain Assessment in Clinical Trials (IMMPACT). RESULTS: The electronic search resulted in 1606 studies. After removing duplicates and applying the eligibility criteria, 106 RCT were included. A total of 43 studies evaluated masticatory muscle disorders, 27 evaluated temporomandibular joint disorders, and 36 analysed mixed TMD. CONCLUSIONS: The evaluation showed significant variability in the types of outcomes and their measurement instruments. In addition, some domains such as physical and emotional functioning, participant ratings of global improvement and adverse events have been neglected when determining the effectiveness of treatments for TMD.

Phytochemical analysis, toxicity and evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of leaves of Dipteryx alata Vogel.

In this study, our objective was to conduct a comprehensive phytochemical analysis, determine toxicity levels, and assess the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of extracts derived from the leaves of Dipteryx alata Vogel, a native species of the Brazilian cerrado flora. Three distinct extracts were prepared utilizing assisted ultrasound and the Soxhlet apparatus, namely, Ultrasound Crude Extract (UCE), Soxhlet Crude Extract (SCE), and the Soxhlet Ethanol Extract (SEE). The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phytosterols, and saponins in all extracts. Additionally, alkaloids were specifically identified in the SCE and SEE extracts. In the analysis using LC-DAD, the compounds gallic acid, rutin, quercetin, luteolin and kampefrol were determined in higher concentrations in the SCE, followed by the SEE and UCE, respectively. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of campesterol, stigmasterol and ß-sitosterol in all extracts, with UCE and SCE showing a higher concentration of ß-sitosterol. SCE showed the highest concentration of all identified compounds. In the analysis of antioxidant activity by DPPH• and ABTS•+, SEE showed greater efficiency (IC50 = 2.98 ± 2.92 and 6.57 ± 0.89 µg/mL, respectively). In the toxicity test with Allium cepa, all extracts stimulated root growth at 50 g/mL; UCE and SEE stimulated root growth at 250 g/mL; and SEE inhibited root growth at 750 g/mL. In the Artemia salina toxicity, all extracts were non-toxic. Antibacterial activity was identified in the microorganisms S. aureus and S. mutans; however, the extracts did not show antifungal action against the strain of C. albicans. The extracts of D. alata have therapeutic potential for applicability in dentistry.

Genitourinary symptoms and sexual function in women with primary ovarian insufficiency.

OBJECTIVE: There are limited studies on urogenital symptoms in women who experience menopause before the age of 40 years due to primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or bilateral oophorectomy (surgical POI). This study aimed to compare the urogenital symptoms, including sexuality, of women with POI to those without the condition. METHODS: This cross-sectional study conducted was in seven Latin American countries, in which postmenopausal women (with POI and non-POI) were surveyed with a general questionnaire, the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and the six-item Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6). The association of premature menopause with more urogenital symptoms and lower sexual function was evaluated with logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Women with POI experience more urogenital symptoms (MRS urogenital score: 3.54 ± 3.16 vs. 3.15 ± 2.89, p < 0.05) and have lower sexual function (total FSFI-6 score: 13.71 ± 7.55 vs. 14.77 ± 7.57 p < 0.05) than women who experience menopause at a normal age range. There were no significant differences in symptoms when comparing women based on the type of POI (idiopathic or surgical). After adjusting for covariates, our logistic regression model determined that POI is associated with more urogenital symptoms (odds ratio [OR]: 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06-1.80) and lower sexual function (OR: 1.67, 95% CI 1.25-2.25). CONCLUSION: POI, whether idiopathic or secondary to bilateral oophorectomy, is associated with symptoms that affect vaginal and sexual health.

The inhibitor of the redox activity of APE1/REF-1, APX2009, reduces the malignant phenotype of breast cancer cells

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/REF-1) is a multifunctional protein acting on cellular signaling pathways, including DNA repair and redox activities. APE1/REF-1 has emerged as a target for cancer therapy, and its role in breast cancer models would reveal new strategies for cancer therapy. APX2009 is a specific APE1/REF-1 redox inhibitor whose anticancer properties have not been described in breast cancer cells. Here, we investigated the effect of the APX2009 treatment in the breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. Breast cancer cell lines were cultured, and WST1 and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation. Annexin V-FITC/7-AAD and LDH-Glo™ assays were performed to evaluate cell death. The wound healing assay and Matrigel transwell assay were performed after APX2009 treatment to evaluate the cellular migration and invasion processes, respectively. Our findings demonstrated that APX2009 treatment decreased breast cancer cell proliferative, migratory, and invasive properties. Furthermore, it induced apoptosis in both cell lines. Our study is the first to show the effects of APX2009 treatment on apoptosis in a breast cancer cell. Therefore, this study suggested that APX2009 treatment is a promising anticancer molecule for breast cancer.

Global methylation in 'Valencia' orange seedlings associated with rootstocks and Huanglongbing.

Citrus farming is one of the main activities that contributed to the Brazilian trade balance, with citrus seedling being the most important input in the formation of orchards to guarantee high productivity and fruit quality, which fundamentally depends on the chosen genetics. The present study aimed to analyze the existence of epigenetic variability in 'Valencia' orange plants on rootstocks, associated or not with HLB, through the quantification of the global methylation of its genome, in order to support works on genetic improvement and crop production. For this purpose, this work was carried out in greenhouse in a completely randomized experimental design, with 5 treatments and 6 replicates per treatment, each seedling being considered a replicate, namely: T1 = "Valencia" orange grafted onto "Rangpur" lemon, inoculated with HLB; T2 = "Valencia" orange grafted onto "Swingle" citrumelo, inoculated with HLB; T3 = "Valencia" orange grafted onto "Rangpur" lemon, without HLB inoculation ; T4 = "Valencia" orange grafted onto "Swingle" citrumelo, without HLB inoculation ; T5 = "Valencia" orange in free standing. The DNA was extracted from leaves and the ELISA test (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) was carried out, based on the use of receptors sensitive to 5-mC., to measure the relative quantification of global methylation between genomic orange DNAs . Since the control treatment (T5) consists of "Valencia" orange in free standing, it could be inferred that both the normal grafting technique in the seedling formation process and the inoculation of buds infected with HLB are external factors capable of changing the methylation pattern in the evaluated plants, including the DNA demethylation process, causing an adaptive response in association with the expression of genes previously silenced by genome methylation.

Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenitis recurrence temporally associated with allergen-specific immunotherapy in a female adolescent: a case report.

Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome is the most common periodic fever syndrome in pediatric patients. It is clinically characterized by fever flares lasting 3-7 days, reappearing every 2-8 weeks with a distinctive clockwork regularity. PFAPA generally begins before 5 years of age and usually ceases 3-5 years after onset. Recurrences may be observed in adolescence and adulthood in up to 20% of cases. The authors aim to describe a case of PFAPA recurrence in adolescence temporally associated with allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). A 16-year-old female patient was referred to the rheumatology unit due to recurrent episodes of fever one month after initiating ASIT for allergic rhinitis. These episodes occurred every 4 weeks and lasted 3 days. During these episodes, she also presented with a sore throat, tonsillar exudates, and cervical lymphadenopathy. Abortive treatment with oral prednisolone was attempted in these episodes, with complete resolution of fever after a single dose. After reviewing her medical background, she had previously experienced febrile episodes accompanied by aphthous ulcers and tonsillar exudates occurring every 7-8 weeks from age 2-7. The etiopathogenesis of PFAPA remains uncertain. Environmental triggers, particularly those with immunomodulator effects, may interfere with the immune responses responsible for PFAPA occurrence, but the mechanisms are still unclear. The authors describe the first report of the reappearance of PFAPA flares, possibly due to ASIT. Further studies are needed to fully clarify if ASIT constitutes a true environmental trigger of PFAPA.

Evaluation of the immunomodulatory activity of thalidomide on tumor-associated macrophages in the 4T1 murine metastatic breast cancer model / [Avaliação do efeito imunomodulador da talidomida em macrófagos associados a tumores no modelo murino de câncer de mama metastático 4T1]

The present work evaluated the immunomodulatory effect of thalidomide (Thal) at different doses on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) using a mouse model of human breast cancer. Mice were inoculated with 4T1 cells in the left flank and treated with Thal once a day at concentrations of 50, 100, and 150mg/kg body weight from the 5th day until the 28th day of tumor inoculation. The tumors were sized, proliferation index and TAMs count were evaluated in primary tumors and metastatic lungs. In addition, the metastasis rate was evaluated in the lungs. Thal at 150mg/kg significantly decreased tumor growth, proliferation index, and TAMs infiltration in primary tumors. Conversely, a higher number of TAMs and lower proliferation index were observed in metastatic lungs in mice treated with 150mg/kg of Thal. Furthermore, Thal at 150mg/kg significantly decreased the metastatic nodules in the lungs. Our findings demonstrated that Thal treatment considerably decreased the primary tumor and lung metastasis in mice associated with different TAM infiltration effects in these sites.(AU)

No presente trabalho, foi avaliado o efeito imunomodulador de diferentes doses de talidomida em macrófagos associados ao tumor (TAMs), em um modelo murino de câncer de mama. Camundongos foram inoculados com células 4T1, na região do flanco esquerdo, e tratados com talidomida, uma vez ao dia, nas doses de 50, 100 e 150mg/k, por massa corporal, do quinto dia ao 28º dia de inoculação tumoral. Os tumores foram medidos, o índice de proliferação celular e a contagem de TAMs foram avaliados nos tumores primários e nos pulmões com metástases. Além disso, a taxa de metástases pulmonares também foi avaliada. A talidomida na dose de 150mg/kg diminuiu significativamente o crescimento tumoral, o índice de proliferação celular e a infiltração de TAMs nos tumores primários. Por outro lado, maior número de TAMs e menor índice de proliferação celular foram observados nos pulmões metastáticos, em camundongos tratados com 150mg/kg de talidomida. Ademais, a talidomida na dose de 150mg/kg diminuiu significativamente os nódulos metastáticos nos pulmões. Os resultados demonstraram que o tratamento com talidomida diminuiu o crescimento tumoral e as metástases pulmonares em camundongos, associado com diferentes efeitos na infiltração de TAMs nesses locais.(AU)

Determinants of the introduction of early complementary feeding before and after the third month of life: a multinomial analysis

The introduction of early complementary feeding (ECF) is determined by different factors depending on when it occurs. The objective of this study was to analyze factors associated with the introduction of ECF in two different moments of the infant's life: from zero to three and from four to five months of age. A cohort with 3,306 dyads studied in the BRISA survey in São Luis/MA in 2010 was used. Questionnaires were applied at birth and at follow-up when the infants were 15 to 36 months of age of women with more than 20 weeks of gestational age, residing in this municipality. A multivariate model of multinomial logistic regression was used to verify associations between independent variables and ECF at 0 to 3 months and at 4 to 5 months of age. A hierarchical analysis model was used to select variables for confounding adjustment. Variables with a P-value <0.05 were considered significant. For ECF introduced between 0-3 months, the variables "use of pacifier", "maternal paid activity", "smoking", and "postpartum pregnancy" were identified as risk factors. The variables "use of pacifier" and "maternal paid activity" remained associated as a risk for ECF introduced from 4-5 months. The variable 'mother without partner' (RR=1.26 and P=0.04) represented a risk factor for ECF only for the 4-5 months period. Although each period presented specific risk factors, the use of pacifier and maternal professional activity were associated in the two periods studied, indicating their importance for the introduction of ECF.

Comparação entre testes escritos e testes realizados no computador: estresse, satisfação e desempenho dos alunos do Curso de Medicina da Unifenas ­ Alfenas, cursando Ginecologia e Obstetrícia / Comparison between written tests and computer tests: stress, satisfaction and performance among medical students attending Gynecology and Obstetrics Course at UNIFENAS - Alfenas/MG

Introdução: As avaliações usando tecnologia estão presentes nas escolas em vários países, e seu uso se popularizou nas últimas duas décadas, sendo utilizadas no exame para licença médica nos Estados Unidos desde 1999. O potencial que as avaliações aprimoradas por tecnologia trazem para o mundo acadêmico foi o que motivou a realização deste estudo, e o conhecimento advindo de uma conferência específica sobre essas tecnologias trouxe o incentivo para persistir nessa linha de pesquisa. Método: Este estudo tem por objetivo comparar o estresse, a satisfação e o desempenho dos acadêmicos durante o primeiro semestre de 2018, ao realizarem provas escritas convencionais e provas no computador na disciplina de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia do curso de Medicina da Universidade José do Rosário Vellano, campus Alfenas. Foram avaliadas as turmas do décimo segundo período e sétimo período, totalizando uma amostra de 135 alunos. Tratou-se de um estudo experimental randomizado em que os alunos foram divididos em dois grupos para as avaliações e foram-lhes aplicados questionários pré-definidos e presenciais. Antes da prova, foram entregues aos alunos perguntas específicas para avaliar o estresse envolvido em sua realização. Ao término da prova, foram aplicadas as questões que avaliaram a satisfação com o tipo de prova realizada. Foram ainda registradas as notas obtidas nos dois tipos de avaliação. Cada aluno fez uma avaliação escrita convencional e uma avaliação via computador. Resultados: Os acadêmicos avaliados demonstraram maior estresse e menor satisfação com a prova no computador, comparando-a com a prova escrita convencional. O tipo de prova não esteve associado ao desempenho acadêmico. Conclusão: A falta de familiaridade e treinamento com a metodologia, antes da aplicação das avaliações, causou aumento no estresse nos acadêmicos envolvidos no presente estudo, o que interferiu na satisfação, ao fazer a prova usando tecnologia, embora não tenha havido diferença nos escores de desempenho. As informações coletadas serão utilizadas para reestruturação do formato dos testes oferecidos no departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia da UNIFENAS, campus Alfenas, com o intuito de aprimorar a avaliação teórica que se realiza na Universidade.

Introduction: Evaluations using technology are present in schools in several countries and have become popular in the last two decades and have been used in the United States medical license examination since 1999. The potential that improved technology assessments bring to the academic world motivated the carrying out of this study, and the knowledge from a specific conference on these technologies brought the incentive to persist in this research line. Method: This study aims to compare the stress, satisfaction and performance of academics during the first semester of 2018, when conducting conventional written tests and computer tests in the course of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the medical program of the University of José do Rosário Vellano, Alfenas campus, a total sample of 135 students. It was a randomized experimental study in which the students were divided for the evaluations and pre-defined and class-based questionnaires were applied. Prior to the test, specific questions were given to students to assess the stress involved in their achievement. At the end of the test, the questions were answered to evaluate the satisfaction with the type of the test they took. Each student did a conventional written assessment and a computer assessment. Results: The evaluated students showed greater stress and less satisfaction with the computer-based test compared to the conventional written test, although there was no statistical difference in performance when comparing both. Conclusion: Lack of familiarity and training with the methodology prior to test application resulted an increase in students' stress in the present study, which interfered in the satisfaction with the test using technology, even though there was no difference in the performance scores. The collected information will be used to restructure the format of the tests offered in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of UNIFENAS, Campus Alfenas, in order to improve the theoretical evaluation performed at the University.

Implementation of a Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional (BALANCE) Program for improvement on quality of diet and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events: A randomized, multicenter trial

Background Complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with higher ischemic risk, which can be mitigated by long-term dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). However, concomitant high bleeding risk (HBR) may be present, making it unclear whether short- or long-term DAPT should be prioritized. Objectives This study investigated the effects of ischemic (by PCI complexity) and bleeding (by PRECISE-DAPT [PRE dicting bleeding Complications in patients undergoing stent Implantation and Sub sequent Dual Anti Platelet Therapy] score) risks on clinical outcomes and on the impact of DAPT duration after coronary stenting. Methods Complex PCI was defined as ≥3 stents implanted and/or ≥3 lesions treated, bifurcation stenting and/or stent length >60 mm, and/or chronic total occlusion revascularization. Ischemic and bleeding outcomes in high (≥25) or non-high (<25) PRECISE-DAPT strata were evaluated based on randomly allocated duration of DAPT. Results Among 14,963 patients from 8 randomized trials, 3,118 underwent complex PCI and experienced a higher rate of ischemic, but not bleeding, events. Long-term DAPT in non-HBR patients reduced ischemic events in both complex (absolute risk difference: −3.86%; 95% confidence interval: −7.71 to +0.06) and noncomplex PCI strata (absolute risk difference: −1.14%; 95% confidence interval: −2.26 to −0.02), but not among HBR patients, regardless of complex PCI features. The bleeding risk according to the Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction scale was increased by long-term DAPT only in HBR patients, regardless of PCI complexity. Conclusions Patients who underwent complex PCI had a higher risk of ischemic events, but benefitted from long-term DAPT only if HBR features were not present. These data suggested that when concordant, bleeding, more than ischemic risk, should inform decision-making on the duration of DAPT. (AU)

Estudo da técnica de venografia dos dígitos de vacas / Study of Venography technique in digits of cows

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a técnica de venografia retrógrada podal em vacas, comparando os acessos da veia digital dorsal comum III com a digital comum II ou IV, nos membros torácicos e pélvicos, mediante a administração de dois diferentes volumes de contraste. Foram utilizados 53 membros torácicos e pélvicos de 14 vacas, com o torniquete de borracha posicionado a 5cm proximal aosparadígitos. Administraram-se 10mL do diatrizoato de meglumina em 24 membros (grupo 1), sendo 13 na veia digital dorsal comum III pelo acesso 1 (A1) e 11 na digital II ou IV no acesso 2 (A2). No grupo 2, administraram-se 20mL em 29 membros, sendo 15 pelo A1 e 19 pelo A2. Após a administração do contraste, as radiografias foram repetidas a cada 20 segundos até 120 segundos. O grau de preenchimento vascular foi maior no grupo 2, não diferindo entre membros e acessos venosos. Conclui-se que a administração de 20mL de contraste apresentou melhor preenchimento vascular e radiopacidade, não havendo diferença entre 20 e 120 segundos após a administração do contraste na qualidade radiográfica, independentemente do acesso venoso.(AU)

The aim of this study was to describe the technique of retrograde venography foot in cows, comparing the approaches of the dorsal common digital vein III with the digital commons II or IV, thoracic and pelvic by administering two different volumes of contrast members. Fifty three fore and hindlimbs of 14 cows were used, a rubber tourniquet was placed at 5cm above accessory digit. Diatrizoatemeglumine was administered at 10mL to 24 members (group 1), 13 dorsal common digital vein III for access 1 (A1), and 11 digital II or IV access 2 (A2). In group 2 20mL was administered to 29 members, 15 by 19 in A1 and A2. After contrast administration, the radiographs were repeated every 20 seconds until 120 seconds. The degree of vascular filling was greater in group 2, independent of venous access, member or moment. There was no significant difference in the degree of radiopacity of radiographic images when compared to the venous access, time and a member of both groups. We conclude that administration of 20mL of contrast showed better vascular filling and radiopacity, with no difference between 20 and 120 seconds after contrast administration in independent radiographic quality venous access.(AU)

Pulmonar ARFI elastography and ultrasonography of canine fetal hydrops: case report / Elastografia ARFI e ultrassonografia pulmonar de fetos com hidropsia fetal canina: relato de caso

This case report describes diagnostic and prognostic applicability of pulmonary acoustic radiation force impulse elastography and ultrasonography in canine hydrops fetalis. We also explore these methods' potential in prediction of postnatal respiratory dysfunction. Two pregnant bitches (English bulldog [case 1] and French bulldog [case 2]) were referred for sonographic evaluation in their last week of pregnancy. Ultrasound showed that in each bitch, one fetus presented with lung alterations (hyperechogenicity, irregular surface, and pleural effusion) and anasarca. The other fetuses of the litter were normal, and they were observed as light gray and dark blue on pulmonary elastography. Their shear-wave velocity was 0.75m/s. Fetuses with hydrops were observed as medium gray and dark blue, and the average shear-wave velocities were 1.05m/s (case 1) and 1.12m/s (case 2). Findings were compatible with increased lung rigidity. Six neonates of English bulldog and two of French bulldog showed no signs of clinical abnormalities during neonatal assessment. One puppy in each gestation presented with anasarca and respiratory distress, and died approximately 24 hours after birth. Novel ultrasound techniques (elastography) for assessing pulmonary tissues in abnormal fetuses in veterinary obstetrics can promote early, safe, and non-invasive diagnosis of canine prenatal and neonatal alterations.(AU)

Este relato de caso descreve a aplicabilidade diagnóstica e prognóstica da elastografia ARFI e ultrassonografia pulmonar em fetos caninos com hidropisia, como um método potencial para predizer a disfunção respiratória pós-natal nesses conceptos. Duas cadelas gestantes (Buldogue Inglês - caso 1 e Buldogue Francês - caso 2) foram encaminhadas para avaliação ultrassonográfica na última semana de gestação. Pela ultrassonografia foram observadas, em cada cadela, um feto apresentando alterações pulmonares (hiperecogenicidade, superfície irregular e derrame pleural) e anasarca. Outros fetos não apresentaram anormalidades. Os fetos normais apresentaram elastograma pulmonar cinza-claro e azul-escuro e velocidade de cisalhamento de 0,75m/s. Os fetos com hidropisia apresentaram tonalidades cinza-média e azul-escura e velocidade de cisalhamento de 1,05m/s (caso 1) e 1,12m/s (caso 2). Esses achados são compatíveis com o aumento da rigidez pulmonar. Seis neonatos Buldogue Inglês e dois Buldogues Franceses não mostraram sinais de anormalidades clínicas na avaliação neonatal. Um filhote de cada gestação apresentou anasarca e dificuldade respiratória, vindo a óbito cerca de 24 horas após o nascimento. O uso das novas técnicas de ultrassonografia (elastografia) para avaliação de tecidos pulmonares em feto anormal, em obstetrícia veterinária, pode promover o diagnóstico precoce, seguro e não invasivo de alterações pré-natais e neonatais em conceptos caninos.(AU)

Profiling of antioxidant potential and phytoconstituents of Plantago coronopus / Avaliação do potencial antioxidante e perfil fitoquímico do Plantago coronopus

Abstract The halophyte species Plantago coronopus has several described ethnomedicinal uses, but few reported biological activities. This work carried out for the first time a comparative analysis of P. coronopus organs in terms of phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of organic and water extracts from roots, leaves and flowers. The leaves contents in selected nutrients, namely amino acids and minerals, are also described. Roots (ethyl acetate and methanol extracts) had the highest radical scavenging activity (RSA) towards 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, while leaves (hexane extract) had higher RSA on nitric oxide radical and iron chelating ability. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified eighteen phenolics from which salicylic acid and epicatechin are here firstly described in Plantago species. Leaves had mineral levels similar to those of most vegetables, proving to be a good source for elements like calcium, sodium, iron and magnesium, and also for several of the essential amino acids justifying it use as food. Our results, especially those regarding the phenolics composition, can explain the main traditional uses given to this plantain and, altogether, emphasize the potential of P. coronopus as a source of bioactive molecules particularly useful for the prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases.

Resumo A espécie halófita Plantago coronopus tem vários usos etnomedicinais já descritos, mas em relação à bioatividade a informação é escassa. Este trabalho efetuou, pela primeira vez, uma análise comparativa dos órgãos de P. coronopus em termos de compostos fenólicos e atividade antioxidante de extratos orgânicos e aquosos provenientes das raízes, folhas e flores da planta, bem como o conteúdo de determinados nutrientes, aminoácidos e minerais, nas folhas da planta. As raízes (extratos de acetato de etila e metanol) apresentaram a maior atividade de captação para os radicais 1,1-difenil-2-picril hidrazil (DPPH) e 2,2'-azino-bis(3-etilbenzotiazolina-6-ácido sulfónico) (ABTS), enquanto as folhas (extrato de hexano) mostraram maior atividade captadora para o radical óxido nítrico bem como maior capacidade quelante do ferro. A análise por cromatografia liquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) identificou dezoito compostos fenólicos e, destes, o ácido salicílico e a epicatequina são aqui descritos pela primeira vez em espécies de Plantago. As folhas desta planta halófita mostraram ainda conter minerais em níveis semelhantes aos da maioria dos vegetais, provando ser uma boa fonte de elementos como o cálcio, sódio, ferro e magnésio, bem como de vários dos aminoácidos essenciais o que justifica seu uso na alimentação. Os resultados, particularmente aqueles relacionados à composição fenólica, podem justificar os principais usos medicinais atribuídos a esta espécie e, na sua totalidade, demonstram o potencial de P. coronopus como fonte de moléculas bioativas particularmente úteis na prevenção de doenças relacionadas com estresse oxidativo.

Plant antiherbivore defenses in Fabaceae species of the Chaco / Defesas das plantas anti-herbivoria em espécies de Fabaceae do Chaco

Abstract The establishment and maintenance of plant species in the Chaco, one of the widest continuous areas of forests in the South American with sharp climatic variations, are possibly related to biological features favoring plants with particular defenses. This study assesses the physical and chemical defenses mechanisms against herbivores of vegetative and reproductive organs. Its analyses of 12 species of Fabaceae (Leguminosae) collected in remnants of Brazilian Chaco shows that 75% present structural defense characters and 50% have chemical defense - defense proteins in their seeds, like protease inhibitors and lectins. Physical defenses occur mainly on branches (78% of the species), leaves (67%), and reproductive organs (56%). The most common physical characters are trichomes and thorns, whose color represents a cryptic character since it does not contrast with the other plant structures. Defense proteins occur in different concentrations and molecular weight classes in the seeds of most species. Protease inhibitors are reported for the first time in seeds of: Albizia niopoides, Anadenanthera colubrina, Mimosa glutinosa, Prosopis rubriflora, and Poincianella pluviosa. The occurrence of physical and chemical defenses in members of Fabaceae indicate no associations between defense characters in these plant species of the Chaco.

Resumo O estabelecimento e a manutenção de espécies no Chaco, uma planície semi-árida da América do Sul com variações climáticas importantes, possivelmente estão relacionados a características biológicas que favorecem as plantas detentoras de defesas particulares. Este estudo teve como objetivos avaliar os mecanismos de defesa física e química anti-herbivoria em órgãos vegetativos e reprodutivos. Analisamos 12 espécies da família Fabaceae (Leguminosae) obtidas em remanescentes de Chaco brasileiro. Observamos que 75% das espécies estudadas apresentam atributo de defesa física e 50% possuem defesa química - proteínas de defesa nas sementes, como inibidores de protease e lectinas. As defesas físicas ocorrem principalmente nos ramos (78% das espécies), nos órgãos reprodutivos (56% das espécies) e nas folhas (67%). Os atributos físicos mais frequentes são tricomas e espinhos, cuja coloração não contrastante com as demais estruturas das plantas representa um caráter críptico. Proteínas de defesa ocorrem nas sementes da maioria das espécies, com diferentes concentrações e classes de pesos moleculares. Inibidores de protease nas sementes estão sendo relatados pela primeira vez em: Albizia niopoides, Anadenanthera colubrina, Mimosa glutinosa, Prosopis rubriflora e Poincianella pluviosa. A ocorrência de defesas física e química entre os membros de Fabaceae indica que não há associações entre as características de defesa das espécies de plantas avaliadas no Chaco.

Antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has great intrinsic antimicrobial resistance limiting the number of effective antibiotics. Thus, other antimicrobial agents such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are considered potential agents to help manage and prevent infections. AgNPs can be used in several applications against bacteria resistant to common antibiotics or even multiresistant bacteria such as P. aeruginosa. This study assessed the antimicrobial activity of commercial 10 nm AgNPs on two hospital strains of P. aeruginosa resistant to a large number of antibiotics and a reference strain from a culture collection. All strains were susceptible to 5 mu g/mL nanoparticles solution. Reference strains INCQS 0230 and P.a.1 were sensitive to AgNPs at concentrations of 1.25 and 0.156 mu g/mL, respectively; however, this was not observed for hospital strain P.a.2, which was more resistant to all antibiotics and AgNPs tested. Cytotoxicity evaluation indicated that AgNPs, up to a concentration of 2.5 mu g/mL, are very safe for all cell lines tested. At 5.0 mu g/mL, AgNPs had a discrete cytotoxic effect on tumor cells HeLa and HepG2. Results showed the potential of using AgNPs as an alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents that are currently used, and a perspective for application of nanosilver with antibiotics to enhance antimicrobial activity.