Immunohistochemical identification of a malignant catarrhal fever virus in cattle with renal diseases from Paraná state, Southern Brazil: a retrospective epidemiological study.

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a viral infectious disease caused by specific members of the Macavirus genus that are referred to as the MCF virus (MCFV) complex group. This study determined the prevalence of MCFV-associated infections in cattle within the mesoregions of the state of Paraná, Southern Brazil, by analyzing the histopathologic patterns of renal lesions in association with positive immunoreactivity to intralesional antigens of MCFV. Intracytoplasmic MCFV antigens were identified in 41.7% (48/115) of the kidneys of cattle evaluated. Lymphocytic interstitial nephritis, vascular degeneration, and ballooning degeneration of the renal tubules were the principal histopathological findings associated with positive immunoreactivity to MCFV. The results indicate that MCFV infections are endemic within the state of Paraná and suggest that the kidney can be of diagnostic value in suspected cases of MCF-associated infections in cattle. Furthermore, the utilization of an in situ diagnostic technique resulted in the detection of a greater number of cases of infections by MCFV than previously identified using other diagnostic methods. Additionally, degenerative vascular lesions of the kidney should be considered during the establishment of a histological diagnosis of MCFV-induced infections in cattle in the absence of fibrinoid change or necrotizing vasculitis.

Disruption of Redox Homeostasis by Alterations in Nitric Oxide Synthase Activity and Tetrahydrobiopterin along with Melanoma Progression.

Cutaneous melanoma emerges from the malignant transformation of melanocytes and is the most aggressive type of skin cancer. The progression can occur in different stages: radial growth phase (RGP), vertical growth phase (VGP), and metastasis. Reactive oxygen species contribute to all phases of melanomagenesis through the modulation of oncogenic signaling pathways. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an important cofactor for NOS coupling, and an uncoupled enzyme is a source of superoxide anion (O2•-) rather than nitric oxide (NO), altering the redox homeostasis and contributing to melanoma progression. In the present work, we showed that the BH4 amount varies between different cell lines corresponding to distinct stages of melanoma progression; however, they all presented higher O2•- levels and lower NO levels compared to melanocytes. Our results showed increased NOS expression in melanoma cells, contributing to NOS uncoupling. BH4 supplementation of RGP cells, and the DAHP treatment of metastatic melanoma cells reduced cell growth. Finally, Western blot analysis indicated that both treatments act on the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways of these melanoma cells in different ways. Disruption of cellular redox homeostasis by the altered BH4 concentration can be explored as a therapeutic strategy according to the stage of melanoma.

Molecular characterization of encephalitic bovine listeriosis from southern Brazil.

Reports of bovine listeriosis in Brazil are uncommon, being restricted to citations within retrospective studies, resulting in scarce documented information of this important disease of cattle. This manuscript describes the molecular findings associated with spontaneous encephalitic listeriosis in two steers from distinct herds within the state of Paraná, southern Brazil. Both animals demonstrated altered consciousness suggestive of brain stem dysfunctions and died a few days after the initial onset of disease. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were designed to target specific genes of infectious neurological agents of cattle. These included bovine herpesvirus 1 and 5 (BoHV-1 and BoHV-5), ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), Listeria monocytogenes, and Histophilus somni. Rabies virus was discarded in evaluations done at the official state diagnostic laboratory. Gross alterations were insignificant; histopathology demonstrated rhombencephalitis associated with macrophage-predominant, multifocal to coalescing microabscesses and extensive perivascular cuffings in both steers. The L. monocytogenes PCR assay amplified the 172-bp amplicon of the listeriolysin gene from the brain stem of both animals and from the telencephalon, thalamus, and cerebellum of one of them. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that the strains derived from this study clustered with known strains of L. monocytogenes lineage I. The BoHV-1 and BoHV-5, OvHV-2, and H. somni PCR assays were negative. These results confirm the participation of L. monocytogenes lineage I in the etiopathogenesis of the neurological disease herein described and represent the first complete description of encephalitic listeriosis in cattle from Brazil.

NT157 exhibits antineoplastic effects by targeting IRS and STAT3/5 signaling in multiple myeloma.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a prevalent hematological malignancy with high recurrence and no definitive cure. The current study revisits the role of the IGF1/IGF1R axis in MM, introducing a novel inhibitor, NT157. The IGF1/IGF1R pathway is pivotal in MM, influencing cell survival, proliferation, and migration and impacting patient survival outcomes. NT157 targets intracellular proteins such as IRS and STAT proteins and demonstrates antineoplastic potential in hematological malignancies and solid tumors. In the present study, we assessed IGF1R signaling-related gene expression in MM patients and healthy donors, unveiling significant distinctions. MM cell lines displayed varying expression patterns of IGF1R-related proteins. A gene dependence analysis indicated the importance of targeting receptor and intracellular elements over autocrine IGF1. NT157 exhibited inhibitory effects on MM cell viability, clonal growth, cell cycle progression, and survival. Moreover, NT157 reduced IRS2 expression and STAT3, STAT5, and RPS6 activation and modulated oncogenes and tumor suppressors, fostering a tumor-suppressive molecular profile. In summary, our study demonstrates that the IGF1/IGF1R/IRS signaling axis is differentially activated in MM cells and the NT157's capacity to modulate crucial molecular targets, promoting antiproliferative effects and apoptosis in MM cells. NT157 may offer a multifaceted approach to enhance MM therapy.

Assessment of Chemical Facility Ethylene Oxide Emissions Using Mobile and Multipoint Monitoring.

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a hazardous air pollutant that can be emitted from a variety of difficult to measure industrial sources, such as fugitive leaks, wastewater handling, and episodic releases. Emerging next generation emission measurement (NGEM) approaches capable of time-resolved, low parts per billion by volume (ppbv) method detection limits (MDLs) can help facilities understand and reduce EtO and other air pollutant emissions from these sources yielding a range of environmental and public health benefits. In October 2021, a first of its kind 4-day observational study was conducted at an EtO chemical facility in the midwestern United States. The study had dual objectives to both improve understanding of EtO emission sources within the facility and advance NGEM methods. Using cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) instruments, a combination of mobile surveys and stationary multipoint process unit monitoring assessed EtO concentrations in and near facility operations, while testing and comparing measurement methods. The study concluded that four main areas of EtO source emissions existed within the facility, each possessing unique emission characteristics. Episodic EtO emissions from supply railcar switchovers and batch reactor washouts, lasting seconds to minutes in duration, produced EtO concentrations exceeding 500 ppbv inside the process unit in some cases. In one instance, EtO at ~30 ppbv was briefly observed hundreds of meters from the process unit. Lower level but more sustained EtO concentrations were observed near an EtO transfer pump and wastewater tank outfall and drain system. Overall, 4.6% of mobile survey data were above the 1.2 ppbv mobile test MDL while the nine stationary sampling locations ranged from 17.7% to 82.8% of data above the 1.0 ppbv multipoint test MDL. This paper describes the EtO emissions observed in and near the four defined source areas within the facility and provides details of the NGEM method development advances accomplished as part of the study.

Non-agreement between 2 serologic techniques for detecting antibody to Brucella ovis in naturally infected sheep.

Brucella ovis is the causative agent of ovine brucellosis, which is an important infectious disease in sheep farming worldwide and is responsible for economic losses because of its negative effect on the reproductive system of rams and ewes. Serologic tests are the main tools for detection of infection; however, these tests commonly yield a high frequency of false-negative results. We compared 2 serologic tests, agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) and ELISA, for the detection of anti-B. ovis antibodies in naturally infected sheep. Of the 728 serum samples analyzed, 0.3% were positive by AGID and 9.2% by ELISA. Positive results were obtained for different animals and flocks. There was no statistical difference between the detection frequency of the 2 methods (p = 0.674), and the kappa test indicated low concordance (κ = 0.005). The lack of agreement between results obtained using AGID and ELISA, associated with the absence of clinical signs, makes it difficult to detect ovine brucellosis efficiently, and demonstrates the need for effective tests for the definitive detection of B. ovis infection.

Anti-inflammatory activity of the epicuticular wax and its isolated compounds catechin and gallocatechin from Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. (Myrtaceae) leaves.

This study describes anti-inflamatory activity of epicuticular wax (ECW) extracted from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., and its isolated compounds, catechin and gallocatechin in a pleurisy model in mice. The results for exudation and cell migration showed that the extract and isolated compounds from the plant were effective in inhibiting these inflammatory parameters. The ECW demonstrated a dose-dependent effect on the inhibition of cell migration. The results for NOx levels reveals that the isolated compounds from Eugenia brasiliensis were effective in inhibiting the production of this inflammatory mediator, however, ECW were not able in inhibiting the production of NO in the pleural cavity, at the tested doses. The results here obtained, helps to reinforce the scientifically hypothesis that E. brasiliensis has an important anti-inflammatory activity, and that this effect may be, at least in part, by the presence of the compounds catechin and gallocatechin.

L-lactate in cerebrospinal fluid can be used as a biomarker of encephalitis in cattle.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) changes are significant for antemortem diagnoses of some neurological diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the concentration of L-lactate in CSF could be used to differentiate healthy from encephalitic cattle. Cerebrospinal fluid samples from healthy cattle (n = 10) and from those naturally affected by rabies (n = 15), bovine herpesvirus type 5 meningoencephalitis (n = 16), histophilosis (n = 6), or bacterial encephalitis (n = 4), including 1 case of listeriosis, were collected and analyzed. Physical, biochemical (i.e., protein and glucose), and cellular analyses were performed in fresh samples. L-lactate, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride), calcium, and magnesium concentrations were measured in CSF samples that were kept frozen. L-lactate concentrations were also measured in plasma. Analysis of variance was used for comparison between groups and receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed considering L-lactate in CSF of healthy versus encephalitic cattle. The CSF L-lactate concentration was significantly higher in cattle with bacterial encephalitis than in healthy cattle; however, it did not differ between viral and bacterial encephalitis. The calcium concentrations were lower in cattle with encephalitis. L-lactate concentration in CSF > 3.6 mmol/L can be accepted as a cut-off value to indicate encephalitis. Thus, L-lactate in CSF is important for the diagnosis of encephalitis in cattle. Despite the small number of cases of bacterial encephalitis, it is suggested that L-lactate was not important for the differentiation between viral and bacterial encephalitis. Additional studies with a greater number of observations are necessary to clarify this, specifically in cases of listeriosis.

Les modifications du liquide céphalorachidien (LCR) sont importantes pour le diagnostic antemortem de certaines maladies neurologiques. Le but de cette étude était d'évaluer si la concentration de L-lactate dans le LCR pouvait être utilisée pour différencier les bovins en bonne santé des bovins encéphalitiques. Des échantillons de LCR provenant de bovins en bonne santé (n = 10) et de sujets infectés naturellement par la rage (n = 15), de méningoencéphalite à BoHV-5 (n = 16), l'histophilose (n = 6), ou d'encéphalite bactérienne (n = 4), notamment un cas de listériose ont été collectés et analysés. Des analyses physiques, biochimiques (protéines et glucose), et cellulaires ont été effectuées dans des échantillons frais. Les concentrations de L-lactate, d'électrolytes (Na+, K+, et Cl−), de calcium (Ca), et de magnésium ont été mesurées dans des échantillons de LCR maintenus congelés. Les concentrations de L-lactate ont également été mesurées dans le plasma. Une analyse de variance a été utilisée pour la comparaison entre les groupes et une analyse ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) a été réalisée en considérant le L-lactate dans le LCR de bovins en bonne santé par rapport à des bovins encéphalitiques. La concentration de L-lactate dans le LCR était significativement plus élevée chez les bovins présentant une encéphalite bactérienne que chez les bovins en bonne santé. Cependant, elle ne différait pas entre les bovins présentant une encéphalite virale et bactérienne. Les concentrations de Ca étaient plus faibles chez les bovins atteints d'encéphalite. Une concentration de L-lactate dans le LCR > 3,6 mmol/L peut être acceptée comme valeur seuil indiquant une encéphalite. Ainsi, le L-lactate dans le LCR est important pour le diagnostic de l'encéphalite chez les bovins. Malgré le petit nombre de cas d'encéphalite bactérienne inclus, il a été suggéré que la concentration de L-lactate dans le LCR dans la présente étude n'était pas une méthode de diagnostic important dans la différenciation entre l'encéphalite virale et bactérienne chez les bovins. Des études supplémentaires comportant un plus grand nombre d'observations sont nécessaires pour clarifier cet aspect, en particulier dans les cas de listériose.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Anatomical variant of the meniscus related to posterior junction: a case report.

BACKGROUND: There are several reports on anatomical differences of the meniscus. However, there are only a few reports on abnormalities in both menisci and anatomical differences in anterior cruciate ligament insertions. CASE PRESENTATION: This is a case report of a 36-year-old Hispanic man presenting symptoms, including knee pain, locking, and effusion, with an anatomical abnormality of the menisci corresponding to the fusion of the posterior horns of the menisci in tandem with the insertion of the posterior meniscus fibers in the anterior cruciate ligament. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study describing a meniscus anatomical variant with isolated posterior junction of the posterior horn with an anomalous insertion to the anterior cruciate ligament. The recognition of meniscus variants is important as they can be misinterpreted for more significant pathology on magnetic resonance images.

Prophylaxis with nasal decolonization in patients submitted to total knee and hip arthroplasty: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Despite the evolution of the total knee and hip arthroplasty surgery, high postoperative complication rates in the short and long term still persist. Infection is one of the most challenging complications; due to its gravity and treatment difficulties, prophylaxis protocols have been created to decrease its incidence. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the prophylaxis protocol for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus decolonization of the nares in patients previously identified by swab cultures, who were to be submitted to a total joint arthroplasty. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, following the PRISMA-2015 protocol, using the descriptors: "arthroplasty" and "nasal decolonization," or "joint arthroplasty" and "decolonization," or "joint arthroplasty" and "nasal decolonization," for final selection of four observational studies from 79 references identified. This study included a total sample of 10,179 patients, divided in two groups: the control group (4788 patients) and intervention group (5391 patients). It was observed that the intervention group, in which prophylaxis with nasal decolonization was used, 59 (1.09%) of the patients developed a surgical site infection, while in the control group there were 86 cases of surgical site infection (1.79%). This trend repeated itself in all articles, showing no publication biases, forming a homogeneous sample. The use of a prophylaxis protocol for decolonization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, reduced surgical site infection cases by approximately 39%.

Apesar da evolução dos resultados após a artroplastia total de joelho e quadril, a infecção ainda é uma das causas mais desafiadoras para o cirurgião. Em virtude da gravidade e dificuldade do tratamento da infecção articular periprotética, foram criados protocolos de profilaxia para esse tipo de complicação. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a profilaxia infecciosa com a descolonização nasal prévia contra Staphylococcus aureus resistente à meticilina, identificados por meio da coleta de material da nasofaringe por swabs em pacientes com programação cirúrgica de artroplastia total de joelho e artroplastia total de quadril. Foi elaborado um estudo de revisão sistemática com metanálise que usou o protocolo PRISMA-2015, no qual foram utilizados os descritores: arthroplasty e nasal decolonization ou joint arthroplasty e decolonization ou joint arthroplasty e nasal decolonization na língua inglesa. Foram selecionados quatro estudos observacionais dentre as 79 referências identificadas. A amostra total foi de 10.179 pacientes, divididos em dois grupos: controle (4.788 pacientes) e intervenção (5.391 pacientes). Foi observado que, no grupo de intervenção, no qual a profilaxia com descolonização nasal foi aplicada, 59 (1,09%) dos pacientes desenvolveram infecção do sitio cirúrgico, enquanto a infecção do sitio cirúrgico foi observada em 86 (1,79%) dos pacientes no grupo controle. Essa tendência se repetiu em todos os artigos estudados, não sendo observador viés de publicação, constituindo em uma amostra homogênea. A profilaxia pré-operatória com descolonização nasal para Staphylococcus aureus resistente àmeticilina, reduz em 39% os casos de infecção pós-artroplastias do joelho, devendo ser considerada como um protocolo complementar pelos cirurgiões.

What is the ideal working length for bridge plating osteosynthesis of a femoral shaft fracture? A multinational online survey evaluation. / Qual é a área de trabalho ideal na fixação de uma fratura da diáfise do fêmur com placa em ponte? Estudo multinacional transversal.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate how orthopedic surgeons in Latin America define the working length for distinct patterns of femoral shaft fracture. METHODS: a survey was developed presenting different options of working length in four femoral fracture patterns. The survey was submitted to the participants using Google Forms tool. The association between professional characteristics and medical management options according to each type of fracture was analyzed by Chi-square test, with 5% significance level. RESULTS: seven hundred and seven professionals from all Latin America answered the survey. The majority prefered a smaller working length for all situations presented in the study. There was a significant association between the main interest area and the medical preference for the management in fracture types AO 32-B3 and 32-C2 (p<0.05). Other professional characteristics had no significant association at the level of 5%. CONCLUSION: most of the study participants preferred constructions with smaller working length, representing approximately one-third of the total length of the plate, regardless of fracture pattern. There was a significant association between the main interest area (orthopedic trauma) and medical management options for fracture type AO 32-B3 and 32-C2. This can be attributed in part to the fact that these two types of fractures are considered, in the view of the authors, intermediate patterns in terms of strain. This study reinforces the importance of understanding the concept of working length, showing that its calculation remains more based on the surgeons' experience than grounded by strong biomechanical concepts governing the fracture healing process.

OBJETIVO: avaliar a conduta de cirurgiões ortopédicos da América Latina na definição da área de trabalho em distintos padrões de fratura da diáfise do fêmur. MÉTODOS: foi desenvolvido um questionário em que foram apresentadas opções de fixação extra-medular em quatro padrões de fratura da diáfise do fêmur com três diferentes áreas de trabalho. O questionário foi submetido aos participantes utilizando-se a ferramenta Googleforms. A associação entre as características profissionais e as opções de conduta médica de acordo com cada tipo de fratura foi analisada pelo teste de qui-quadrado, com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: setecentos e sete profissionais da América Latina responderam o questionário. A maioria dos participantes optou por uma menor área de trabalho na osteossíntese em todas as situações do estudo. Observou-se associação significativa entre a especialidade e a conduta médica nas fraturas do tipo AO 32-B3 e 32-C2 (p < 0,05). As demais características profissionais não mostraram associação significativa. CONCLUSÃO: a maioria dos participantes deste estudo prefere construções com menor área de trabalho, representando aproximadamente um terço do comprimento total da placa, independentemente do padrão de fratura. Houve associação significativa entre o tipo de especialidade (trauma ortopédico) e as opções de conduta para as fraturas do tipo AO 32-B3 e 32-C. O presente estudo reforça a importância da compreensão do conceito de área de trabalho, mostrando que sua estimativa continua sendo baseada mais na experiência do cirurgião do que em conceitos biomecânicos que regem o processo de consolidação de fraturas.

Chemical constituents of Eugenia catharinae and their antioxidant activity.

Nine compounds were isolated from the leaves of Eugenia catharinae, namely monomethyl olivetol (1), ß-sitosterol (2), stigmasterol (3), uvaol (4), erythrodiol (5), rotundic acid (6), quercetin (7), catechin (8) and myricitrin (9). The structures of 1-9 were established through analysis of their spectroscopic (1H and 13C NMR) and spectrometric (MS) data. Compounds 1 and 6 are reported the first time in the Eugenia genus. In addition, these data were compared with those reported in the literature. The antioxidant activity of plant samples and compounds was measured using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Flavonoids 7, 8, 9 and the ethanolic extract showed the best results, with IC50 values of 20.94 µM, 44.20 µM, 30.01 µM and 58.82 µg/mL, respectively.

Intrastromal corneal ring segments delay corneal grafting in patients with keratoconus.

PURPOSE: To assess the impact of intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS) as a surgical alternative to corneal grafting in patients with keratoconus who were scheduled for a corneal transplant. METHODS: This single-surgeon, single-center, retrospective, observational case series study included 19 eyes of 18 patients (mean age, 23.36 ± 6.22 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of keratoconus. These patients were enrolled from the State of Goiás, Brazil corneal graft waiting list. Following extensive pre-operative testing, including the measurement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), applanation tonometry, biomicroscopy, funduscopy, pachymetry, and corneal topography, patients were implanted with Keraring® ICRS. Patients underwent clinical examination at postoperative days 1, 7, 30, 90, and 180 and were examined again 2 years following surgery. RESULTS: At the 2-year cut-off following ICRS implantation (mean follow-up, 28.72 ± 4.71 months), there was a statistically significant improvement in BCVA (logMAR) from 0.59 ± 0.35 preoperatively to 0.35 ± 0.45 postoperatively ( p <0.01). Three of 19 eyes (15.8%) still required keratoplasty. In the remaining patients (84.2%), BCVA was managed with spectacles (52.6%) or contact lenses (31.6%). One patient developed infectious keratitis, requiring removal of ICR at the first postoperative visit. CONCLUSION: ICRS implantation may be a surgical alternative to keratoplasty in patients with keratoconus. This procedure may delay or even eliminate the need for keratoplasty in such patients.

7-prenyloxi-6-methoxycoumarin from Polygala sabulosa A.W. Bennett Regulates p38 MAPK and NF-kB Pathways Inhibiting the Inflammation Induced by Carrageenan in the Mouse Model of Pleurisy.

CONTEXT: Polygala sabulosa, popularly known as "timutu-pinheirinho," has been used in Brazilian folk medicine for the treatment of bowel and kidney disorders and as an expectorant. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of the crude extract (CE), acetonic fraction (Ac), and the main compound, 7-prenyloxi-6-methoxycoumarin (PC) on a mouse model of carrageenan-induced pleurisy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mouse model of carrageenan-induced pleurisy was used to investigate the effects of P. sabulosa CE, Ac and PC on leukocyte migration, exudate formation, activities of myeloperoxidase (MPO), and adenosine-deaminase (ADA), levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß) and nitric oxide (NO). In addition, the effect of the plant material on lung histology was also evaluated. The effects of PC on the TNF-α, IL-1ß and NO synthase 2 (NOS2) mRNA expression, were also investigated. Finally, the effect of PC on the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) was also evaluated. RESULTS: CE, Ac and PC reduced inflammation in the pleural cavity and lungs. This effect was evidenced by reduction on all inflammatory parameters evaluated; the exception being the inability of the CE to inhibit exudate formation. In isolation, PC showed reduction on mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß and NOS2, and on activation of the NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways. CONCLUSION: The presented results show that P. sabulosa has significant anti-inflammatory activity, as does its main compound, PC. Moreover, the results suggest that PC exerts its effects mainly by inhibited the NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways.

Correlation between findings in magnetic resonance and biopsy in the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis / Correlação entre achados na ressonância magnética e a biópsia no diagnóstico de espondilodiscite / Correlación entre hallazgos en la resonancia magnética y la biopsia en el diagnóstico de espondilodiscitis

ABSTRACT Objective To correlate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings with the microbiological and anatomopathological diagnosis of spinal infection. Methods A retrospective, cohort review of online medical records (laboratory, anatomopathology and diagnostic imaging sector) of patients diagnosed with spondylodiscitis, who underwent a full spine MR scan between January 2014 and July 2018 at the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of the Universidade Federal de São Paulo. Results Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly found etiological agent (57%). Blood culture was positive in 76% of cases and 82% of the patients who underwent biopsy had a spondylodiscitis diagnosis. Pain was the most prevalent clinical symptom and the lumbosacral spine was the most frequent site of infection. T1 hyposignal, T2/STIR hypersignal, and terminal plate destruction were verified in almost all MR scans. Conclusions No direct correlation was found between MR findings and any specific etiological agent. Blood culture and biopsy are important diagnostic tools that should be used for accurate diagnosis of the infectious agent . Level of evidence IV; Diagnostic Study.

RESUMO Objetivo Correlacionar os achados de ressonância magnética (RNM) com o diagnóstico microbiológico e anatomopatológico de infecção na coluna vertebral. Métodos Estudo de coorte retrospectivo de revisão de prontuários online (laboratório, anatomopatológico e setor de diagnóstico por imagem) de pacientes com diagnóstico de espondilodiscite, submetidos ao exame de RNM da coluna vertebral e acompanhados pelo Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Universidade Federal de São Paulo, entre janeiro de 2014 e julho de 2018. Resultados O agente etiológico mais comum encontrado foi o S. aureus (57%). A hemocultura mostrou-se positiva em 76% dos casos e 82% dos pacientes submetidos à biópsia apresentaram diagnóstico de espondilodiscite. A dor foi o achado clínico mais prevalente e a coluna lombossacra foi o sítio mais frequente de infecção. No exame de RNM, a presença de hipossinal em T1, hipersinal em T2/STIR e destruição das placas terminais foram identificados em quase todos os casos. Conclusões Não houve correlação direta dos achados na RNM com um agente etiológico específico na espondilodiscite. A hemocultura e a biópsia são ferramentas diagnósticas importantes que devem ser utilizadas para o diagnóstico preciso do agente infeccioso. Nível de evidência IV; Estudo diagnóstico.

RESUMEN Objetivo Correlacionar los hallazgos de resonancia magnética (RNM) con el diagnóstico microbiológico y anatomopatológico de infección de la columna vertebral. Métodos Un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo de revisión de prontuarios en línea (laboratorio, anatomopatológico y sector de diagnóstico por imagen) de pacientes con diagnóstico de espondilodiscitis, sometidos al examen de RNM de la columna vertebral y acompañados por el Departamento de Ortopedia y Traumatología de la Universidad Federal de São Paulo, entre enero de 2014 y julio de 2018. Resultados El agente etiológico más común encontrado fue el S. aureus (57%). El hemocultivo se mostró positivo en 76% de los casos y 82% de los pacientes sometidos a biopsia presentaron diagnóstico de espondilodiscitis. El dolor fue el hallazgo clínico más prevalente y la columna lumbosacra fue el sitio más frecuente de infección. En el examen de RNM, la presencia de hiposeñal en T1, hiperseñal en T2/STIR y destrucción de las placas terminales fueron identificadas en casi todos los casos. Conclusiones No hubo correlación directa de los hallazgos de la RNM con un agente etiológico específico en la espondilodiscitis. El hemocultivo y la biopsia son herramientas diagnósticas importantes, que deben ser utilizadas para el diagnóstico preciso del agente infeccioso. Nivel de evidencia IV; Estudio Diagnóstico.

Number and morphology of tiller age groups during summer in Marandu palisadegrass pastures previously used under deferred grazing / Número e morfologia de faixas etárias de perfilhos durante o verão em pastos de capim-marandu previamente utilizados sob pastejo diferido

The relative contribution of young, mature and old tillers in the canopy influences the production and structure of the pasture. The objective with this work was to evaluate the balance between tiller appearance and tiller death (BAL) during spring and early summer, the morphology and percentages of young, mature and old tillers in Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu (marandu palisadegrass) with three conditions in late winter: short (24.1 cm), tall (49.0 cm) and tall (50.0 cm)/mown (8 cm). Tall and tall/mown pastures presented higher BAL in September and October, respectively. In January, BAL was higher in short and tall/mown pastures than in tall pasture. The tiller number was higher in short pasture, intermediate in tall/mown pasture and lower in tall pasture. The percentage of old tillers was higher in short and tall pastures compared to tall/mown pasture. The percentage of live leaf lamina reduced, while the percentage of dead leaf lamina increased with tiller age. Mowing of the tall marandu palisadegrass pasture in late winter increases the renewal of tillers in the spring and decreases the percentage of old tillers in the summer. The old tillers present worse morphology than young tillers.

A contribuição relativa de perfilhos jovens, maduros e velhos no dossel influencia a produção e a estrutura do pasto. O objetivo com o trabalho foi avaliar durante a primavera e o início do verão o balanço entre aparecimento e mortalidade de perfilho (BAL), a morfologia e as percentagens de perfilhos jovens, maduros e velhos nos pastos de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu (capim-marandu) com três condições ao fim do inverno: baixo (24,1 cm), alto (49,0 cm) e alto (50,0 cm)/roçado (8 cm). Os pastos alto e alto/roçado apresentaram maior BAL em Setembro e Outubro, respectivamente. Em Janeiro, o BAL foi maior nos pastos baixo e alto/roçado do que no pasto alto. O número de perfilho foi maior no pasto baixo, intermediário no pasto alto/roçado e menor no pasto alto. As percentagens de perfilhos jovens e velhos foram maiores nos pastos baixo e alto, em comparação ao pasto alto/roçado. A percentagem de lâmina foliar viva reduziu, enquanto que a percentagem de lâmina foliar morta aumentou com a idade do perfilho. A roçada do pasto alto de capim-marandu no fim do inverno aumenta a renovação de perfilho na primavera e diminui a percentagem de perfilho velho no pasto no verão. O perfilho velho apresenta pior morfologia do que o perfilho jovem.

Polygala molluginifolia A. St.-Hil. and Moq. prevent inflammation in the mouse pleurisy model by inhibiting NF-κB activation.

UNLABELLED: This study was conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of Polygala molluginifolia (Polygalaceae) on the mouse pleurisy model induced by carrageenan. P. molluginifolia is a plant native to southern Brazil that is popularly called "canfora". The Polygala genus is used to treat different pathologies, including inflammatory diseases, in traditional medicine. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The whole P. molluginifolia plant material was extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol. The crude hydroalcoholic extract (CE) was subjected to chromatographic procedures to produce various derivate fractions, including its aqueous (Aq), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and hexane (Hex) fractions. Compound 1 (5,3',4'-trihydroxy-6″,6″-dimethylpyrano [2″,3″:7,6] isoflavone) (Iso), which was isolated from the EtOAc fraction, and Compound 2 (rutin) (Rut), which was isolated from the Aq fraction, were identified using ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy and quantified using an HPLC apparatus. RESULTS: The CE, the Aq, EtOAc, and Hex fractions, and the isolated compounds Iso and Rut were able to reduce cell migration and exudation. Furthermore, the plant material also decreased the myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine-deaminase (ADA) activities and the nitric oxide (NO(x)), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß) levels. In addition, Iso and Rut reduced the TNF-α and IL-1ß mRNA expression levels and significantly decreased NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. CONCLUSION: The results show that P. molluginifolia has a significant anti-inflammatory action and that this effect is due, at least in part, to the presence of Iso and Rut in large amounts. Moreover, this effect was found to be closely related to the inhibitory effects of the isolated compounds on the NF-κB pathway.

Diagnóstico diferencial das doenças neurológicas dos bovinos no estado do Paraná / Differential diagnosis of neurologic diseases of cattle in the state of Paraná

O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar as doenças neurológicas que acometeram bovinos no estado do Paraná entre os anos de 2009 e 2015. A investigação aconteceu, preferencialmente, nas propriedades rurais onde os casos ocorreram. Foram registradas as informações sobre a evolução das doenças nos bovinos afetados do rebanho, e os prováveis fatores de risco foram identificados. Todos os procedimentos de exame físico geral e neurológico foram realizados sistematicamente para a caracterização da síndrome neurológica presente. Amostras de sangue e de líquor foram colhidas para a realização de exames laboratoriais. De acordo com o tempo de evolução e com a gravidade dos sinais clínicos observados, os bovinos doentes eram mantidos vivos para acompanhamento da evolução ou da resposta ao tratamento, ou eram submetidos à eutanásia seguida de necropsia. Fragmentos do sistema nervoso e dos demais órgãos foram colhidos para exame histopatológico. O exame de imunofluorescência direta e a prova biológica em camundongos foram realizados em todos os bovinos que morreram, com a finalidade de confirmar ou descartar o diagnóstico de raiva. Métodos laboratoriais específicos das rotinas de virologia, bacteriologia e toxicologia foram empregados, como complementares, para o estabelecimento do diagnóstico diferencial. Foram investigados 236 bovinos com doença neurológica, sendo 85 casos de ocorrência individual e 151 casos distribuídos por surtos que ocorreram em 79 rebanhos. As encefalopatias (180/236; 76,2%) predominaram sobre as mielopatias (27/236; 11,4%). As doenças inflamatórias determinadas por infecções (98/236; 41,5%) e as doenças tóxicas (91/236; 38,6%) foram as principais, enquanto as causas degenerativas (10/236; 4,2%), metabólicas (9/236; 3,8%), físicas (9/236; 3,8%), neoplásicas (4/236; 1,7%), e os defeitos congênitos (1/236; 0,4%) ocorreram menos frequentemente. Os casos inconclusivos somaram 5,9% (14/236). A meningoencefalite por BoHV-5 e a raiva foram as doenças de frequência maior e podem ser consideradas as mais importantes. Dentre as causas tóxicas, as intoxicações por plantas se destacaram (63/91; 69,2%) e foram responsáveis por 26,6% de todos os casos. Destacaram-se ainda a polioencefalomalácia, a meningoencefalite trombótica por Histophilus somni e o botulismo. Essas informações contribuem para que os médicos veterinários adotem condutas mais efetivas de diagnóstico e de prevenção, e são valiosas para o sistema oficial de vigilância epidemiológica do estado.(AU)

The aim of this study was to identify the neurological diseases that affected cattle in Paraná state between the years 2009 and 2015. The investigation took place, preferably, in the farms where cases occurred. Information on the evolution of the diseases in the affected cattle of the herd was recorded, and the probable risk factors were identified. All general and neurological examination procedures were performed systematically for the characterization of the neurological syndrome in each case. Samples of blood and CSF for laboratory exams were also collected. According to the evolution features and the severity of the observed clinical signs, the diseased cattle were kept alive to follow the progress of the disease, or were submitted to euthanasia followed by necropsy. Fragments of tissues from nervous system and other organs were collected for histopathological examination. Direct immunofluorescence test and biological test were performed on all the cattle that died, in order to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of rabies. Specific virology, bacteriology and toxicology laboratory methods were used as complementary exams in order to establish differential diagnosis. A total of 236 cattle with neurological disease were investigated, 85 cases of individual occurrence and 151 cases distributed by outbreaks that occurred in 79 herds. Encephalopathies (180/236, 76.2%) predominated over mielopathies (27/236, 11.4%). Inflammatory diseases caused by infections (98/236, 41.5%) and the toxic diseases (91/236, 38.6%) were the main causes, while degenerative (10/236, 4.2%), metabolic (9/236; 3.8%), physical (9/236, 3.8%), neoplastic (4/236, 1.7%), and congenital defects (1/236, 0.4%) occurred less often. The inconclusive cases were 5.9% (14/236). BoHV-5 meningoencephalitis and rabies were diseases of higher frequency and may be considered the most important. Among the toxic causes, plant poisonings were highlighted (63/91, 69.2%) and were responsible for 26.6% of all cases. Polioencephalomalacia, thrombotic meningoencephalitis caused by Histophilus somni and botulism were also highlighted. This information helps veterinarians to adopt more effective diagnostic and preventive approaches and is valuable to the state's official epidemiological surveillance system.(AU)