The effectiveness of low-dose of eCG in timed AI Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers.

This study evaluated the efficacy of the administration of different doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; 0 IU, 200 IU, or 300 IU) at the time of the progesterone device removal in 2-year-old Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers synchronized for fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI). On day 0 (D0), a total of 398 heifers received 2 mg of oestradiol benzoate i.m., 0.53 mg of cloprostenol i.m., and an eight-day previously used (second use) intravaginal device containing 1 g of progesterone (P4). Eight days later (D8), simultaneous with the P4 device removal, 0.5 mg of oestradiol cypionate i.m. and 0.53 mg of cloprostenol i.m. were administered. At the same time, heifers were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments: G-0 IU (n = 141; no eCG treatment), G-200 IU (n = 132; treated with 200 IU of eCG), and G-300 IU (n = 125; treated with 300 IU of eCG). FTAI was performed 48 h after the P4 device removal (D10). Ultrasonographic evaluations were performed at D0, D10, and D17. Heifers were scanned to measure the size of the largest follicle (LF), the presence, number, and size of the corpus luteum (CL), and the ovulation rate. Subsequently, at D40, the heifers underwent scanning to determine the pregnancy rate and identify any twin pregnancies. Additionally, at D70, scans were performed to assess pregnancy loss (PG). Data were analysed by orthogonal contrasts [C1 (eCG effect): control x (200 IU + 300 IU) and C2 (eCG dose effect): 200 IU × 300 IU]. On D0, CL presence was similar between the groups [G-0 IU = 65.2% (92/141), G-200 IU = 55.3% (73/132), and G-300 IU = 63.2% (79/125); p = .16]. No interactions between the presence of CL on D0 and eCG treatment were found for any of the variables (p > .05). The diameter of the LF at FTAI (D10) was not influenced by eCG treatment (p = .22) or eCG dose (p = .18). However, treatment with eCG increased the diameter of the CL at D17 (G-0 IU = 15.7 ± 0.3 mmb , G-200 IU = 16.6 ± 0.2 mma , and G-300 IU = 16.6 ± 0.3 mma ; p = .001), regardless of the dose used (p = .94). The ovulation rate was higher in heifers treated with eCG [G-0 IU = 79.4%b (112/141), G-200 IU = 90.2%a (119/132), and G-300 IU = 93.6%a (117/125); p = .002], but there was no effect of eCG dose (p = .36). Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) on D40 [G-0 IU = 32.6%b (46/141), G-200 IU = 42.4%a (56/132), and G-300 IU = 42.4%a (53/125); P = 0.05] and D70 [G-0 IU = 29.1%b (41/141), G-200 IU = 40.9%a (54/132), and G-300 IU = 40.8%a (51/125); p = .02] were higher on heifers that received eCG; however, no dose effect was observed for P/AI on D40 (p = .89) nor D70 (p = .98). Pregnancy loss between D40 and D70 tended to reduce (p = .07) in eCG-treated heifers without dose effect (p = .91). Heifers with CL at D0 presented a greater follicle diameter (LF) on D10 (With CL = 11.2 ± 0.2 mm and Without CL = 10.2 ± 0.2 mm; p = .05), CL diameter on D17 (With CL = 15.8 ± 0.03 mm and Without CL = 11.8 ± 0.6 mm; p = .01), and ovulation rate [With CL = 95.5% (233/244) and Without CL = 74.7% (115/154); p = .01]. However, no difference in pregnancy rate at D40 (p = .52) and D70 (p = .84) was found. In conclusion, eCG treatment increases ovulation and pregnancy rates of heifers submitted to a FTAI protocol. Furthermore, eCG treatment increases the diameter of the CL after FTAI and reduces pregnancy losses. No dose effect was observed, suggesting Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers respond to 200 IU of eCG treatment for FTAI.

Impact of COVID-19 on mental health of health care workers in Spain: a mix-methods study.

BACKGROUND: Spain's lockdown measures couldn't prevent the severe impact of the COVID-19 first wave, leading to high infections, deaths, and strain on healthcare workers (HCWs). This study aimed to explore the mental health impact on HCWs in the Balearic Islands during the initial months of the pandemic, the influencing factors, and the experiences of those in a COVID-19 environment. METHODS: Using a mixed-methods approach, the study encompassed quantitative and qualitative elements. Cross-sectional survey data from April to June 2020 comprised HCWs who were emailed invitations. The survey covered demographics, work, clinical and COVID-19 variables, along with psychological distress and PTSD symptoms, using validated measures. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with HCWs offered qualitative insights. RESULTS: Three hundred thirty-six HCWs averaging 46.8 years, mainly women (79.2%), primarily nurses in primary care with over 10 years of experience. Anxiety symptoms were reported by 28.8%, 65.1% noted worsened sleep quality, and 27.7% increased psychoactive drug usage. Psychological distress affected 55.2%, while 27.9% exhibited PTSD symptoms. Gender, age, experience, COVID-19 patient contact, and workload correlated with distress, PTSD symptoms, sleep quality, and psychoactive drug usage. Interviews uncovered discomfort sources, such as fear of infection and lack of control, leading to coping strategies like information avoidance and seeking support. LIMITATIONS: Static cross-sectional design, non-probabilistic sample, and telephone interviews affecting non-verbal cues, with interviews conducted during early pandemic lockdown. CONCLUSIONS: HCWs faced significant psychological distress during the pandemic's first wave, underscoring the necessity for robust support and resources to counteract its impact on mental health.

Biotechnological and socio-environmental potential of Campomanesia adamantium (Myrtaceae): an interdisciplinary review.

Guavira (Campomanesia adamantium, Myrtaceae) is a native fruit from the Brazilian Cerrado savanna and is socio-economically important for the indigenous and traditional people living in the Central-West. This is a bibliographic review of the biological properties of guavira and its derivatives, and, after discussing experimental studies, an interdisciplinary approach is conducted highlighting the im-portance of Agroforestry Systems as an ecological restoration tool to leverage the production chain of guavira while providing ecosystem services. Many research groups studied effects of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds and biological properties of this fruit and other plant parts such as antibiotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-diarrheic and antitumoral activities, cardiovascular and hepatic protection and action against neuropathic pain. Besides, guavira by-products benefit poultry intestinal health, similarly to antibiotics added to their feed. Furthermore, several biotechnological products were found, like pulp flour, seasoning from the peel, sunscreen, and seed oil similar to olive oil with pharmaceutical and industrial potential. We conclude by emphasizing the importance of guavira for restoration and preservation of the threatened Brazilian Cerrado, and for the socio-environmental development of family agriculture. The same approach and study are welcome and necessary in other regions and domains worldwide having their native flora as means for a restorative end.

Beyond forced exhalation: impulse oscillometry as a promising tool for bronchial hyperresponsiveness evaluation.

Introduction: The multiple forced expiratory maneuvers that must be performed during methacholine test require a high degree of collaboration and can lead to fatigue. However, impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a noninvasive test, quick and easy to perform, that does not require effort-dependent maneuvers.Objectives: The primary endpoint was to evaluate the relationship between IOS and spirometry during the methacholine test. The secondary endpoint was to study the predictive value of baseline IOS in the development of bronchial hyperreactivity.Methods: Observational, prospective, cross-sectional study, with recruitment of consecutive patients from the pulmonology department with clinical suspicion of bronchial asthma with negative bronchodilator test and normal FeNO.Results: Twenty-five patients were included, with a mean age of 49 ± 18 years. Thirteen patients (52%) had a positive methacholine test. The correlation between IOS indices and FEV1 was significant (p < 0.05) in all cases. The indices with the highest predictive power were R5-20 and AX. The optimal cutoff points were an increase of greater than 32.96% in R5, greater than 120.83% for X5, an increase of 30.30 [kPa l-1s-1] in R5-20, and an increase of 1.01 [kPa l-1] for AX. Baseline oscillometry demonstrated a strong predictive value in the development of bronchial hyperreactivity, with a sensitivity of 61.5% and a specificity of 91.7%, using the cut-off point of 160.0% for R5.Conclusions: IOS may be a valuable alternative to forced spirometry in detecting bronchial hyperreactivity during the methacholine test, showing a good correlation between both tests.

Perceived Anxiety in Family Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome and Williams Syndrome during the Lockdown of the First COVID-19 Wave in Spain.

The lockdown during the first wave of COV- ID-19 in Spain has been related to higher levels of anxiety in the general population. However, the emotional impact on Spanish caregivers of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) has not been studied so far.

Relaxation of thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) by endothelium-derived 6-nitrodopamine.

6-Nitrodopamine is a novel catecholamine released by vascular tissues, heart, and vas deferens. The aim of this study was to investigate whether 6-nitrodopamine is released from the thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) and to evaluate the relaxing and anti-contractile actions of this catecholamine. Release of 6-nitrodopamine, dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline was assessed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The relaxations induced by 6-nitrodopamine and by the selective dopamine D2 receptor antagonist L-741,626 were evaluated on U-46619 (3 nM)-pre-contracted vessels. The effects of 6-nitrodopamine and L-741,626 on the contractions induced by electric-field stimulation (EFS), dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline were also investigated. Both aorta and pulmonary artery rings exhibited endothelium-dependent release of 6-nitrodopamine, which was significantly reduced by the NO synthesis inhibitor L-NAME. Addition of 6-nitrodopamine or L-741,626 caused concentration-dependent relaxations of both vascular tissues, which were almost abolished by endothelium removal, whereas L-NAME and the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ had no effect on 6-nitrodopamine-induced relaxations. Additionally, pre-incubation with 6-nitrodopamine antagonized the dopamine-induced contractions, without affecting the noradrenaline- and adrenaline-induced contractions. Pre-incubation with L-741,626 antagonized the contractions induced by all catecholamines. The EFS-induced contractions were significantly increased by L-NAME, but unaffected by ODQ. Immunohistochemical assays showed no immunostaining of the neural tissue markers S-100 and calretinin in either vascular tissue. The results indicated that 6-nitrodopamine is the major catecholamine released by marmoset vascular tissues, and it acts as a potent and selective antagonist of dopamine D2-like receptors. 6-nitrodopamine release may be the major mechanism by which NO causes vasodilatation.

Relaxation of thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) by endothelium-derived 6-nitrodopamine

6-Nitrodopamine is a novel catecholamine released by vascular tissues, heart, and vas deferens. The aim of this study was to investigate whether 6-nitrodopamine is released from the thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery rings of marmosets (Callithrix spp.) and to evaluate the relaxing and anti-contractile actions of this catecholamine. Release of 6-nitrodopamine, dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline was assessed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The relaxations induced by 6-nitrodopamine and by the selective dopamine D2 receptor antagonist L-741,626 were evaluated on U-46619 (3 nM)-pre-contracted vessels. The effects of 6-nitrodopamine and L-741,626 on the contractions induced by electric-field stimulation (EFS), dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline were also investigated. Both aorta and pulmonary artery rings exhibited endothelium-dependent release of 6-nitrodopamine, which was significantly reduced by the NO synthesis inhibitor L-NAME. Addition of 6-nitrodopamine or L-741,626 caused concentration-dependent relaxations of both vascular tissues, which were almost abolished by endothelium removal, whereas L-NAME and the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ had no effect on 6-nitrodopamine-induced relaxations. Additionally, pre-incubation with 6-nitrodopamine antagonized the dopamine-induced contractions, without affecting the noradrenaline- and adrenaline-induced contractions. Pre-incubation with L-741,626 antagonized the contractions induced by all catecholamines. The EFS-induced contractions were significantly increased by L-NAME, but unaffected by ODQ. Immunohistochemical assays showed no immunostaining of the neural tissue markers S-100 and calretinin in either vascular tissue. The results indicated that 6-nitrodopamine is the major catecholamine released by marmoset vascular tissues, and it acts as a potent and selective antagonist of dopamine D2-like receptors. 6-nitrodopamine release may be the major mechanism by which NO causes vasodilatation.

Differential effects of estrogen receptors in the rostral ventrolateral medulla in Goldblatt hypertension.

Previous studies have shown that 17ß-estradiol plays a cardioprotective role in the central nervous system (CNS) of male rats. The aim of the present study was to determine the influence of 17ß-estradiol on sympathetic vasomotor activity and blood pressure in a renovascular hypertensive Goldblatt two-kidney one-clip (2K-1C) male rat model. We also determined the influence of angiotensin II AT1 receptor on the expression of estrogen receptors (ERα, ERß, and G protein-coupled ER (GPER)) in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) of Goldblatt rats. Experiments were performed in Goldblatt and age-matched control rats six weeks after clipping of renal artery to induce hypertension. Microinjection of 17ß-estradiol into the RVLM led to a greater reduction in mean arterial pressure and renal sympathetic nerve activity in controls than in 2K-1C rats. Microinjection of the GPER agonist G-1 into the RVLM led to a significantly greater increase in mean arterial pressure and renal sympathetic nerve activity in 2K-1C rats. Expression levels of estrogen receptors GPER and ERα, but not ERß, were significantly higher in the RVLM of 2K-1C rats than in that of the control rats. Chronic treatment with losartan significantly reduced the expression levels of estrogen receptors in the RVLM of 2K-1C rats. Taken altogether, the data suggest that the imbalance of actions between ERα and GPER, particularly with the predominance of GPER in the RVLM, contributes to sympathetic overactivation in male rats with Goldblatt hypertension. AT1-Angiotensin II receptor in the RVLM upregulated estrogen receptor expression in male Goldblatt rats.

Patient-centered Outcomes in Breast Cancer: Description of EQ-5D-5L and EORTC-QLQ-BR23 Measurements in Real-world Data and Their Association With Survival.

AIMS: In recent years, major improvements in breast cancer treatments have led to a significant increase in survival. Despite that, this population's quality of life (QoL) information is lacking, especially real-world data. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective, multicentre, observational study of female breast cancer patients, without prior systemic treatment, treated between 2012 and 2019 in private health care in Brazil. QoL was assessed by two questionnaires, the EQ-5D-5L and the EORTC-QLQ-BR23. Additional data were retrospectively collected. RESULTS: The study comprised 1372 patients, most with early-stage disease (80.2% stages 0-II). At a median follow-up of 25.6 months, the estimated 3-year overall survival was 93.6%. Patients with locally advanced and metastatic breast cancer had the lowest visual analogue scale scores and the highest symptom burden in all dimensions of EQ-5D-5L, but with the most significant improvement after treatment. With the EORTC-QLQ-BR23 questionnaire, patients undergoing lumpectomy had a better perception of body image. Axillary dissection led to greater arm symptoms after 12 months, radiotherapy enhanced breast symptoms and patients treated with chemotherapy had significant worsening in the effects of systemic therapy compared with endocrine or HER2 therapy. Staging and immunohistochemical subtype correlated with survival and with several QoL parameters, but overall survival was not independently affected by patient-reported outcomes in this cohort. CONCLUSION: Our results show that early diagnosis and access to treatments with fewer side-effects, such as endocrine or targeted therapy, and less aggressive surgeries are the best strategies to achieve a better QoL for breast cancer patients.

Identification and evolutionary analysis of papillomavirus sequences in New World monkeys (genera Sapajus and Alouatta) from Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the occurrence of papillomavirus (PV) infection in non-human primates (NHPs) in northeastern Argentina. We also explored their evolutionary history and evaluated the co-speciation hypothesis in the context of primate evolution. METHODS: We obtained DNA samples from 57 individuals belonging to wild and captive populations of Alouatta caraya, Sapajus nigritus, and Sapajus cay. We assessed PV infection by PCR amplification with the CUT primer system and sequencing of 337 bp (112 amino acids) of the L1 gene. The viral sequences were analyzed by phylogenetic and Bayesian coalescence methods to estimate the time to the most common recent ancestor (tMRCA) using BEAST, v1.4.8 software. We evaluated viral/host tree congruence with TreeMap v3.0. RESULTS: We identified two novel putative PV sequences of the genus Gammapapillomavirus in Sapajus spp. and Alouatta caraya (SPV1 and AcPV1, respectively). The tMRCA of SPV1 was estimated to be 11,941,682 years before present (ybp), and that of AcPV1 was 46,638,071 ybp, both before the coalescence times of their hosts (6.4 million years ago [MYA] and 6.8 MYA, respectively). Based on the comparison of primate and viral phylogenies, we found that the PV tree was no more congruent with the host tree than a random tree would be (P > 0.05), thus allowing us to reject the model of virus-host coevolution. CONCLUSION: This study presents the first evidence of PV infection in platyrrhine species from Argentina, expands the range of described hosts for these viruses, and suggests new scenarios for their origin and dispersal.

Patterns of renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor activity in an animal model of survival to experimental sepsis.

Sepsis causes long-term disability, such as immune dysfunction, neuropsychological disorders, persistent inflammation, catabolism, and immunosuppression, leading to a high risk of death in survivors, although the contributing factors of mortality are unknown. The purpose of this experimental study in rats was to examine renal (rSNA) and splanchnic (sSNA) sympathetic nerve activity, as well as baroreflex sensitivity, in acute and chronic post-sepsis periods. The rats were divided into two groups: control group with naïve Wistar rats and sepsis group with 2-mL intravenous inoculation of Escherichia coli at 108 CFU/mL. Basal mean arterial pressure, heart rate, rSNA, sSNA, and baroreflex sensitivity were evaluated in all groups at the acute (6 h) and chronic periods (1 and 3 months). Basal rSNA and sSNA were significantly reduced in the surviving rats, as was their baroreflex sensitivity, for both pressor and hypotensive responses, and this effect lasted for up to 3 months. A single episode of sepsis in rats was enough to induce long-term alterations in renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor nerve activity, representing a possible systemic event that needs to be elucidated. These findings showed that post-sepsis impairment of sympathetic vasomotor response may be one of the critical components in the inability of sepsis survivors to respond effectively to new etiological illness factors, thereby increasing their risk of post-sepsis morbidity.

The environmental performance of different pork production scenarios: a life cycle assessment study.

In order to evaluate the environmental performance generated by a "semi-technified" pig farm, as well as the comparison of different pig production scenarios, pig feed and animal production subsystems were evaluated considering both: (a) origin of feed ingredients and (b) variations in pig weight. Life cycle assessment methodology was used to evaluate the environmental performance, establishing 1 market pig as the functional unit (FU). Three ingredient origin distances (400, 950, and 1800 km) and three slaughter weights (110, 100, and 90 kg) were considered for the simulation analysis and comparison. The feed production subsystem was the main generator of environmental impacts, mainly caused by the cultivation of sorghum and the production of fat. The origin of the inputs represented the main increase in environmental impact for the feed production subsystem, mainly in the Fossil Depletion category, with a fivefold increase by acquiring inputs from 900 km and a ninefold increase at a distance of 1800 km. Producing lighter pigs resulted in the best environmental alternative, given the resultant 11% reduction in environmental impact.

Patterns of renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor activity in an animal model of survival to experimental sepsis

Sepsis causes long-term disability, such as immune dysfunction, neuropsychological disorders, persistent inflammation, catabolism, and immunosuppression, leading to a high risk of death in survivors, although the contributing factors of mortality are unknown. The purpose of this experimental study in rats was to examine renal (rSNA) and splanchnic (sSNA) sympathetic nerve activity, as well as baroreflex sensitivity, in acute and chronic post-sepsis periods. The rats were divided into two groups: control group with naïve Wistar rats and sepsis group with 2-mL intravenous inoculation of Escherichia coli at 108 CFU/mL. Basal mean arterial pressure, heart rate, rSNA, sSNA, and baroreflex sensitivity were evaluated in all groups at the acute (6 h) and chronic periods (1 and 3 months). Basal rSNA and sSNA were significantly reduced in the surviving rats, as was their baroreflex sensitivity, for both pressor and hypotensive responses, and this effect lasted for up to 3 months. A single episode of sepsis in rats was enough to induce long-term alterations in renal and splanchnic sympathetic vasomotor nerve activity, representing a possible systemic event that needs to be elucidated. These findings showed that post-sepsis impairment of sympathetic vasomotor response may be one of the critical components in the inability of sepsis survivors to respond effectively to new etiological illness factors, thereby increasing their risk of post-sepsis morbidity.

Potential use of ivermectin for the treatment and prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Currently no treatment has been proven to be efficacious for patients with early symptoms of COVID-19. Although most patients present mild or moderate symptoms, up to 5-10% may have a poor disease progression, so there is an urgent need for effective drugs, which can be administered even before the onset of severe symptoms, i.e. when the course of the disease is modifiable. Recently, promising results of several studies on oral ivermectin have been published, which has prompted us to conduct the present review of the scientific literature. METHODS: A narrative review has been carried out, focusing on the following four main topics: a) short-term efficacy in the treatment of the disease, b) long-term efficacy in the treatment of patients with post-acute symptoms of COVID-19, c) efficacy in the prophylaxis of the disease, and c) safety of ivermectin. RESULTS: The reviewed literature suggests that there seems to be sufficient evidence about the safety of oral ivermectin, as well as the efficacy of the drug in the early-treatment and the prophylaxis of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: In the view of the available evidence, the Frontline COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC) recommends the use of oral ivermectin for both prophylaxis and early-treatment of COVID-19. Further well-designed studies should be conducted in order to explore the efficacy and safety of invermectin at low and high doses, following different dosing schedules, in both, the short and long-term treatment.

SARS-CoV-2 decontamination of skin with disinfectants active during and after application.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has resulted in high levels of exposure of medical workers to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Hand decontamination is one of the actions recommended to reduce the risk of infection. AIM: Two disinfectants - BIAKOS antimicrobial skin and wound cleanser (AWC) and AWC2 (Sanara MedTech, Fort Worth, TX, USA) - were tested to determine whether they can inactivate SARS-CoV-2 upon contact or as a coating applied before contact with the virus. METHODS: The ability of AWC and AWC2 to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 was tested in liquid and dried form on plastic surfaces and porcine skin. FINDINGS: AWC and AWC2 were effective in reducing the infectious titre of SARS-CoV-2 in liquid form during application and in dried form 4 h after application. Virus on skin was reduced up to 2 log10-fold and 3.5 log10-fold after treatment with AWC and AWC2, respectively. CONCLUSION: Application of AWC and AWC2 to skin reduces the level of SARS-CoV-2 and the risk of infection.