Acquired enamel pellicle and biofilm engineering with a combination of acid-resistant proteins (CaneCPI-5, StN15, and Hemoglobin) for enhanced protection against dental caries - in vivo and in vitro investigations.

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed in two-legs. In the in vivo, we explored the potential of a rinse solution containing a combination (Comb) of 0.1 mg/mL CaneCPI-5 (sugarcane-derive cystatin), 1.88 × 10- 5M StN15 (statherin-derived peptide) and 1.0 mg/mL hemoglobin (Hb) to change the protein profile of the acquired enamel pellicle(AEP) and the microbiome of the enamel biofilm. The in vitro, was designed to reveal the effects of Comb on the viability and bacterial composition of the microcosm biofilm, as well as on enamel demineralization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vivo study, 10 participants rinsed (10mL,1 min) with either deionized water (H2O-control) or Comb. AEP and biofilm were collected after 2 and 3 h, respectively, after rinsing. AEP samples underwent proteomics analysis, while biofilm microbiome was assessed via 16 S-rRNA Next Generation Sequencing(NGS). In vitro study, a microcosm biofilm protocol was employed. Ninety-six enamel specimens were treated with: 1)Phosphate-Buffered Solution-PBS(negative-control), 2)0.12%Chlorhexidine, 3)500ppmNaF and 4)Comb. Resazurin, colony-forming-units(CFU) and Transversal Microradiography(TMR) were performed. RESULTS: The proteomic results revealed higher quantity of proteins in the Comb compared to control associated with immune system response and oral microbial adhesion. Microbiome showed a significant increase in bacteria linked to a healthy microbiota, in the Comb group. In the in vitro study, Comb group was only efficient in reducing mineral-loss and lesion-depth compared to the PBS. CONCLUSIONS: The AEP modification altered the subsequent layers, affecting the initial process of bacterial adhesion of pathogenic and commensal bacteria, as well as enamel demineralization. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Comb group shows promise in shaping oral health by potentially introducing innovative approaches to prevent enamel demineralization and deter tooth decay.

A Comprehensive Review of Bovine Colostrum Components and Selected Aspects Regarding Their Impact on Neonatal Calf Physiology.

Colostrum contains macro- and micronutrients necessary to meet the nutritional and energy requirements of the neonatal calf, bioactive components that intervene in several physiological aspects, and cells and microorganisms that modulate the calf's immune system and gut microbiome. Colostrum is sometimes mistaken as transition milk, which, although more nutritive than whole milk, has a distinct biochemical composition. Furthermore, most research about colostrum quality and colostrum management focuses on the transfer of maternal IgG to the newborn calf. The remaining components of colostrum and transition milk have not received the same attention, despite their importance to the newborn animal. In this narrative review, a large body of literature on the components of bovine colostrum was reviewed. The variability of these components was summarized, emphasizing specific components that warrant deeper exploration. In addition, the effects of each component present in colostrum and transition milk on several key physiological aspects of the newborn calf are discussed.

Predicting individual outcomes after radical cystectomy in urothelial variants with Cancer of the Bladder Risk Assessment (COBRA) score.

OBJECTIVE: To validate the Cancer of the Bladder Risk Assessment (COBRA) score in patients with urothelial variants. METHODS: Epidemiological, clinical, radiological, and anatomopathological data were collected from patients with urothelial carcinoma who underwent radical cystectomy at the Institute of Cancer of São Paulo between May 2008 and December 2022. Patients with the presence of at least 10% of any urothelial variants in the radical cystectomy specimens' anatomopathological exam were included in the study. The COBRA score and derivatives were applied and correlated with oncological outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 680 patients [482 men (70.9%) and 198 women (29.1%)]; 66 years (IQR 59-73) underwent radical cystectomy for bladder tumor, and of these patients, a total of 167 patients presented any type of urothelial variant. The median follow-up time was 28.77 months (IQR 12-85). The three most prevalent UV were squamous differentiation (50.8%), glandular differentiation (31.3%), and micropapillary differentiation (11.3%). The subtypes with the worst prognosis were sarcomatoid with a median survival of 8 months (HR 1.161; 95% CI 0.555-2.432) and plasmacytoid with 14 months (HR 1.466; 95% CI 0.528-4.070). The COBRA score for patients with micropapillary variants demonstrated good predictive accuracy for OS (log-rank P = 0.009; 95% IC 6.78-29.21) and CSS (log-rank P = 0.002; 95% IC 13.06-26.93). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, the COBRA score proved an effective risk stratification tool for urothelial histological variants, especially for the micropapillary urothelial variant. It may be helpful in the prognosis evaluation of UV patients after radical cystectomy.

Green synthesis of carbon nanotubes functionalized with iron nanoparticles and coffee husk biomass for efficient removal of losartan and diclofenac: Adsorption kinetics and ANN modeling studies.

The presence of emerging contaminants in wastewater poses a global environmental challenge, requiring the development of innovative materials or methods for their treatment. This study focused on the production of green functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and using them in the adsorption of the pharmaceuticals Losartan (LOS) and Diclofenac (DIC). The efficiency of the methodology was verified by characterization techniques. Elemental composition analysis indicated a significant increase in the iron content after the green functionalization, proving the effectiveness of the method. Thermogravimetric analysis showed similar thermal degradation profiles for pristine CNTs and functionalized CNTs, indicating better post-functionalization thermal stability. BET analysis revealed mesoporous characteristics of CNTs, with increased surface area and pore volumes after functionalization. X-Ray diffraction confirmed the preservation of the lattice structure of the CNTs post-functionalization and post-adsorption, with changes in peak broadening suggesting surface modifications. LOS and DIC adsorption were evaluated via kinetic studies at four different concentrations (0.1-0.4 mmol/L) that were best represented by the pseudo-second order model, suggesting chemisorption mechanisms, with faster and higher uptakes for DIC (0.084-0.261 mmol/g; teq = 5 min) when compared to LOS (0.058-0.235 mmol/g; teq = 20 min). The curves were also studied via artificial neural networks (ANN) and revealed that the best ANN architecture for representing the experimental data is a network with [3 5 5 2] neurons trained using the Bayesian-Regularization algorithm and the Log-sigmoid (hidden layers) and Linear (output layer) transfer functions. The desorption study showed that CaCl2 had better performance in CNT regeneration, reaching its removal capacity above 50% up to 3 cycles, for both pharmaceuticals. These findings reveal the potential of the developed material as a promising adsorbent for targeted removal of pollutants, contributing to advances in the remediation of emerging contaminants and the application of artificial intelligence in adsorption research.

Acquired Pellicle and Biofilm engineering by rinsing with hemoglobin solution.

INTRODUCTION: The identification of acid-resistant proteins, including hemoglobin (Hb), within the acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) led to the proposition of the "acquired pellicle engineering" concept, which involves the modification of the AEP by incorporating specific proteins, presenting a novel strategy to prevent dental demineralization. OBJECTIVE: Combining in vivo and in vitro proof-of-concept protocols we sought to reveal the impact of AEP engineering with Hb protein on the biofilm microbiome and enamel demineralization. METHODS: In the in vivo studies, 10-volunteers, in 2 independent experiments, rinsed (10mL,1min) with: deionized water-negative control or 1.0mg/mL Hb. The AEP and biofilm formed along 2 or 3h, respectively, were collected. AEP was analyzed by quantitative shotgun-label-free proteomics and biofilm by 16S-rRNA Next-Generation-Sequencing (NGS). In vitro study, a microcosm biofilm protocol was employed. Seventy-two bovine enamel specimens were treated with: 1)Phosphate-Buffered Solution-PBS, 2)0.12% Chlorhexidine, 3)500ppm NaF; 4)1.0mg/mL Hb; 5)2.0mg/mL Hb, and 6)4.0mg/mL Hb. The biofilm was cultivated for 5-days. Resazurin, colony-forming-units(CFU) and Transversal Microradiography(TMR) were performed. RESULTS: Proteomics and NGS analysis revealed that Hb increased proteins with antioxidant, antimicrobial, acid-resistance, hydroxyapatite-affinity, calcium-binding properties and showed a reduction in oral pathogenic bacteria. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the lowest Hb concentration was the most effective in reducing bacterial activity, CFU and enamel demineralization compared to PBS. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that Hb could be incorporated into anticaries dental products to modify the oral microbiome and control caries, highlighting its potential for AEP and biofilm microbiome engineering.

Relationship between spinal structural damage and sagittal balance in axial spondyloarthritis: Is the thoracic spine the starting point?

OBJECTIVES: To assess the relationship between spinal structural damage, sagittal balance parameters and spine curvatures in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, the pelvic and sagittal balance parameters were obtained through EOS® (Biospace, Paris, France). Patients were divided into three groups according to the modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spinal Score (mSASSS) tertiles (G1 ≤6, n = 36; G2: 6.1-31, n = 36; G3 >31, n = 35) and pelvic and sagittal parameters were compared across them. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to analyze the impact of spinal structural damage and of other factors on sagittal vertical axis (SVA), an important sagittal balance parameter. RESULTS: A total of 107 patients was included. G2 and 3 exhibited higher mean values of thoracic kyphosis T1-T12 when compared to G1 (10.5°(12.3) vs. 22.3°(17.3) vs. 35.2°(14.6), p < 0.001), and G3 demonstrated lumbar L1-S1 straightening compared to the other groups (55.7°(9) and 50.7°(19.8), G1 and G2, respectively, vs. 35.7°(13.2), p < 0.001). Mean SVA values showed an increasing gradient from G1 to G3 (21.6(25.1) vs. 41(44.3) vs. 84.3(47.2)mm, p < 0.001). In the multivariable regression, a one-unit increase in total mSASSS was associated with an average 0.8 mm higher SVA. CONCLUSIONS: Our data showed that more spinal structural damage is associated with a higher SVA, reflecting poorer sagittal balance. Patients with increasing spinal damage have an important increase in thoracic kyphosis suggesting that postural modifications in patients with axSpA might have their origin in the thoracic spine.

Eyeworms of wild birds and new record of Thelazia (Thelaziella) aquilina (Nematoda: Spirurida).

The eyeworms of the subgenus Thelaziella infect orbital cavities, conjunctival sacs and lachrymal ducts of many wild birds, being able to cause conjunctivitis. In Brazil, at least 10 species of Thelaziella have been described. Here we present a brief review of cases of Thelazia (Thelaziella) aquilina and describe the infection of this parasite in Harpia harpyja, as a new host record. Two nematodes were collected from the surface of the cornea of an adult female H. harpyja in the Amazon region (Brazil) and were morphologically identified as two males of T. (T.) aquilina. This data demonstrated the need for further studies focused on elucidating the transmission, biological cycle, and phylogenetic positioning of Thelaziella as subgenus.

Immediate crossover fatigue after unilateral submaximal eccentric contractions of the knee flexors involves peripheral alterations and increased global perceived fatigue.

After a unilateral muscle exercise, the performance of the non-exercised contralateral limb muscle can be also impaired. This crossover fatigue phenomenon is still debated in the literature and very few studies have investigated the influence of eccentric contractions. This study was designed to assess neuromuscular adaptations involved in the crossover fatigue of the non-exercised contralateral knee flexor muscles. Seventeen healthy young men performed a unilateral submaximal eccentric exercise of the right knee flexors until a 20% reduction in maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque was attained in the exercised limb. Before (PRE), immediately after exercise cessation (POST) and 24 hours later (POST24), neuromuscular function and perceived muscle soreness were measured in both the exercised limb and non-exercised limb. In addition, global perceived fatigue was assessed at each measurement time. At POST, significant reductions in maximal voluntary isometric contraction were observed in the exercised limb (-28.1%, p < 0.001) and in the non-exercised limb (-8.5%, p < 0.05), evidencing crossover fatigue. At POST, voluntary activation decreased in the exercised limb only (-6.0%, p < 0.001), while electrically evoked potentiated doublet torque was impaired in both the exercised limb and the non-exercised limb (-11.6%, p = 0.001). In addition, global perceived fatigue significantly increased at POST (p < 0.001). At POST24, all measured variables returned to PRE values, except for perceived muscle soreness scores exhibiting greater values than PRE (p < 0.05). A possible cumulative interaction between peripheral alterations and global perceived fatigue may account for the immediate crossover fatigue observed in the non-exercised limb.

MRI-based Neuropathy Score Reporting And Data System (NS-RADS): multi-institutional wider-experience usability study of peripheral neuropathy conditions among 32 radiology readers.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the inter-reader reliability and diagnostic performance of classification and severity scales of Neuropathy Score Reporting And Data System (NS-RADS) among readers of differing experience levels after limited teaching of the scoring system. METHODS: This is a multi-institutional, cross-sectional, retrospective study of MRI cases of proven peripheral neuropathy (PN) conditions. Thirty-two radiology readers with varying experience levels were recruited from different institutions. Each reader attended and received a structured presentation that described the NS-RADS classification system containing examples and reviewed published articles on this subject. The readers were then asked to perform NS-RADS scoring with recording of category, subcategory, and most likely diagnosis. Inter-reader agreements were evaluated by Conger's kappa and diagnostic accuracy was calculated for each reader as percent correct diagnosis. A linear mixed model was used to estimate and compare accuracy between trainees and attendings. RESULTS: Across all readers, agreement was good for NS-RADS category and moderate for subcategory. Inter-reader agreement of trainees was comparable to attendings (0.65 vs 0.65). Reader accuracy for attendings was 75% (95% CI 73%, 77%), slightly higher than for trainees (71% (69%, 72%), p = 0.0006) for nerves and comparable for muscles (attendings, 87.5% (95% CI 86.1-88.8%) and trainees, 86.6% (95% CI 85.2-87.9%), p = 0.4). NS-RADS accuracy was also higher than average accuracy for the most plausible diagnosis for attending radiologists at 67% (95% CI 63%, 71%) and for trainees at 65% (95% CI 60%, 69%) (p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: Non-expert radiologists interpreted PN conditions with good accuracy and moderate-to-good inter-reader reliability using the NS-RADS scoring system. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The Neuropathy Score Reporting And Data System (NS-RADS) is an accurate and reliable MRI-based image scoring system for practical use for the diagnosis and grading of severity of peripheral neuromuscular disorders by both experienced and general radiologists. KEY POINTS: • The Neuropathy Score Reporting And Data System (NS-RADS) can be used effectively by non-expert radiologists to categorize peripheral neuropathy. • Across 32 different experience-level readers, the agreement was good for NS-RADS category and moderate for NS-RADS subcategory. • NS-RADS accuracy was higher than the average accuracy for the most plausible diagnosis for both attending radiologists and trainees (at 75%, 71% and 65%, 65%, respectively).

Hemoglobin Protects Enamel against Intrinsic Enamel Erosive Demineralization.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the changes in the acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) proteome when this integument is formed in vivo after treatment with sugarcane-derived cystatin (CaneCPI-5), hemoglobin (HB), and a statherin-derived peptide (StN15), or their combination and then exposed to an intrinsic acid challenge. The effectiveness of these treatments in preventing intrinsic erosion was also evaluated. METHODS: Ten volunteers, after prophylaxis, in 5 crossover phases, rinsed with the following solutions (10 mL, 1 min): control (deionized water-H2O) - group 1, 0.1 mg/mL CaneCPI-5 - group 2, 1.0 mg/mL HB - group 3, 1.88 × 10-5M StN15 - group 4, or a blend of these - group 5. Following this, AEP formation occurred (2 h) and an enamel biopsy (10 µL, 0.01 m HCl, pH 2.0, 10 s) was conducted on one incisor. The biopsy acid was then analyzed for calcium (Arsenazo method). The vestibular surfaces of the other teeth were treated with the same acid. Acid-resistant proteins in the residual AEP were then collected and analyzed quantitatively via proteomics. RESULTS: Compared to control, treatment with the proteins/peptide, mixed or isolated, markedly enhanced acid-resistant proteins in the AEP. Notable increases occurred in pyruvate kinase PKM (11-fold, CaneCPI-5), immunoglobulins and submaxillary gland androgen-regulated protein 3B (4-fold, StN15), Hb, and lysozyme C (2-fold, StN15). Additionally, a range of proteins not commonly identified in the AEP but known to bind calcium or other proteins were identified in groups treated with the tested proteins/peptide either in isolation or as a mixture. The mean (SD, mM) calcium concentrations released from enamel were 3.67 ± 1.48a, 3.11 ± 0.72a, 1.94 ± 0.57b, 2.37 ± 0.90a, and 2.38 ± 0.45a for groups 1-5, respectively (RM-ANOVA/Tukey, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate that all treatments, whether using a combination of proteins/peptides or in isolation, enhanced acid-resistant proteins in the AEP. However, only HB showed effectiveness in protecting against intrinsic erosive demineralization. These results pave the way for innovative preventive methods against intrinsic erosion, using "acquired pellicle engineering" techniques.

A simplified BRADEN scale for the risk of developing pressure injuries.

BACKGROUND: Pressure injuries (PIs) are a major problem for healthcare providers, impacting both care costs and patients' quality of life, although they are predominately preventable. These injuries are especially present in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) as a result of the severity of the clinical conditions of patients in this unit. AIM: To develop a simplified version of the Braden scale by removing two of the most subjective subscores-Nutrition and Sensory Perception-in an attempt to reduce the chance of errors by the nursing team during the application of the scale. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted on data collected from patients admitted to the ICU of a private Brazilian tertiary hospital. The resulting data consisted of 5194 patients, 6353 hospital admissions, and 6974 ICU stays. The overall prevalence of PI was 1.09%. RESULTS: The T-test showed that both the Braden and the simplified Braden scores were significantly different between patients with and without PI (p < .001). Patients who developed PIs scored lower than those who did not. The area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve of the Braden Scale was 74.21% (95% CI: 68.61%-79.8%) and of the simplified scale was 72.54% (95% CI: 66.87%-78.22%). The Positive Predictive Value of the Braden Scale was 3.17% when interpolated at the same sensitivity as the simplified scale (47.37%), which achieved 3.26%. CONCLUSIONS: By removing two of the six subscores of the Braden scale we propose a new tool for identifying patients at risk of developing PI in a more objective and fast way. Our results show that classification performance had little negative impact. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: A simplified, less subjective scale allows for more precise and less time-consuming risk classification.

Impact of the mites Dermanyssus gallinae and Tyrophagus putrescentiae on production and health of laying hens.

Mites are considered a threat to the commercial poultry industry due to their direct and indirect pathogenic effects. Dermanyssus gallinae is among the mite species that endanger production, as it is hematophagous and poses a serious sanitary risk. Recently, Tyrophagus putrescentiae has also drawn attention as a potential pest in the poultry industry, and its attacks have been related to clinical symptoms such as cutaneous eruptions and bird restlessness. Considering the potential economic, sanitary, and productive losses both species represent to the laying-hen industry, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of D. gallinae and T. putrescentiae on the health and productivity of commercial laying hens by carrying out infestation experiments and by monitoring laying hens for a period of 60 days. Tyrophagus putrescentiae and D. gallinae affected egg quality and zootechnical parameters in laying hens. Hens infested by T. putrescentiae had behavioral changes, weight loss, stress symptoms, and decreased egg laying and quality, as well as diarrhea, gradual feather loss, and itching. Hens infested by D. gallinae also had weight loss, behavioral changes, and stress symptoms, leading to decreased laying and egg quality. The present study proposes an experimental model to understand the impacts caused by T. putrescentiae and D. gallinae on commercial laying production and egg quality parameters.

Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus Linnaeus, 1758) Tongue Morphology and Adaptive Herbivorous Implications.

Morphological study of the tongue is an interesting way of understanding evolutionary processes associated with feeding habits. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe the tongue morphology of the Antillean manatee and to understand possible morphological relationships with its way of capturing food. Macroscopic dissections and light and scanning electron microscopy analyses of seven manatee tongues were performed. The tongue in Antillean manatees is a muscular and robust organ, divided into apex, body, and root. It is firmly adhered to the floor of the oral cavity. Lingual papillae were distributed over the entire tongue surface. They were identified as filiform papillae concentrated in the apex. Fungiform papillae were present on the apex and lateral regions. Foliate papillae were located on the dorsolateral portion of the root. Lentiform papillae were located across the dorsal tongue surface. The mucosa was lined by a keratinized stratified squamous epithelium presenting compound tubuloacinar glands and taste buds in the foliate papillae. The tongue of the Antillean manatee is similar to other Sirenia species, both of which share a completely herbivorous diet.

Measurement of tibial slope using biplanar stereoradiography (EOS®).

OBJECTIVES: Posterior tibial slope (PTS) is an important anatomic parameter of the knee related to anteroposterior instability. Biplanar stereoradiography allows for simultaneous low-dose acquisition of anteroposterior and lateral views with 3D capability, enabling separate lateral and medial plateau analyses. We aimed to evaluate the possibility and compare the reproducibility of measuring medial and lateral PTS on EOS® images with two different patient positionings and compare it with CT of the knees as the gold standard. METHODS: This is a retrospective study including volunteers who underwent lower limb stereoradiography and knee CT from 01/08/2016 to 07/31/2019. Sixty legs from 30 patients were studied. PTS were measured using stereoradiography and CT by two radiologists. Intraclass correlation was used to calculate intrarater and interrater reproducibilities. Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to calculate the correlation between stereoradiography and CT. We also compared the reproducibility of the stereoradiography of volunteers with 2 different positionings. RESULTS: The mean stereoradiography PTS values for right and left knees were as follows: lateral, 12.2° (SD: 4.1) and 10.1° (SD: 3.5); medial,12.2° (SD: 4.4) and 11.6° (SD: 3.9). CT PTS mean values for right and left knee are as follows: lateral, 10.3° (SD:2.5) and 10.6° (SD: 2.8); medial: 8.7° (SD: 3.7) and 10.4° (SD: 3.5). Agreement between CT and EOS for angles between lateral and medial PTS was good (right, 0.874; left, 0.871). Regarding patient positioning on stereoradiography, interrater and intrarater reproducibilities were greater for patients with nonparallel feet (0.738-0.883 and 0.870-0.975). CONCLUSIONS: Stereoradiography allows for appropriate delineation of tibial plateaus, especially in patients with nonparallel feet, for the purpose of measuring PTS. The main advantage is lower radiation doses compared to radiography and CT.

Systemic immunological profile of children with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: performance of cell populations and soluble mediators as serum biomarkers.

Background: Children with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) have an immune imbalance that is marked by remodeling of the hematopoietic compartment, with effects on peripheral blood (PB). Although the bone marrow (BM) is the main maintenance site of malignancy, the frequency with which immune cells and molecules can be monitored is limited, thus the identification of biomarkers in PB becomes an alternative for monitoring the evolution of the disease. Methods: Here, we characterize the systemic immunological profile in children undergoing treatment for B-ALL, and evaluate the performance of cell populations, chemokines and cytokines as potential biomarkers during clinical follow-up. For this purpose, PB samples from 20 patients with B-ALL were collected on diagnosis (D0) and during induction therapy (days 8, 15 and 35). In addition, samples from 28 children were used as a control group (CG). The cellular profile (NK and NKT-cells, Treg, CD3+ T, CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells) and soluble immunological mediators (CXCL8, CCL2, CXCL9, CCL5, CXCL10, IL-6, TNF, IFN-γ, IL-17A, IL- 4, IL-10 and IL-2) were evaluated via flow cytometry immunophenotyping and cytometric bead array assay. Results: On D0, B-ALL patients showed reduction in the frequency of cell populations, except for CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells, which together with CCL2, CXCL9, CXCL10, IL-6 and IL-10 were elevated in relation to the patients of the CG. On D8 and D15, the patients presented a transition in the immunological profile. While, on D35, they already presented an opposite profile to D0, with an increase in NKT, CD3+ T, CD4+ T and Treg cells, along with CCL5, and a decrease in the levels of CXCL9, CXCL10 and IL-10, thus demonstrating that B-ALL patients present a complex and dynamic immune network during induction therapy. Furthermore, we identified that many immunological mediators could be used to classify the therapeutic response based on currently used parameters. Conclusion: Finally, it is noted that the systemic immunological profile after remission induction still differs significantly when compared to the GC and that multiple immunological mediators performed well as serum biomarkers.

Detection of NTRK fusions by RNA-based nCounter is a feasible diagnostic methodology in a real-world scenario for non-small cell lung cancer assessment.

NTRK1, 2, and 3 fusions are important therapeutic targets for NSCLC patients, but their prevalence in South American admixed populations needs to be better explored. NTRK fusion detection in small biopsies is a challenge, and distinct methodologies are used, such as RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS), immunohistochemistry, and RNA-based nCounter. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and concordance of positive samples for NTRK fusions using a custom nCounter assay in a real-world scenario of a single institution in Brazil. Out of 147 NSCLC patients, 12 (8.2%) cases depicted pan-NTRK positivity by IHC. Due to the absence of biological material, RNA-based NGS and/or nCounter could be performed in six of the 12 IHC-positive cases (50%). We found one case exhibiting an NTRK1 fusion and another an NTRK3 gene fusion by both RNA-based NGS and nCounter techniques. Both NTRK fusions were detected in patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, with no history of tobacco consumption. Moreover, no concomitant EGFR, KRAS, and ALK gene alterations were detected in NTRK-positive patients. The concordance rate between IHC and RNA-based NGS was 33.4%, and between immunohistochemistry and nCounter was 40%. Our findings indicate that NTRK fusions in Brazilian NSCLC patients are relatively rare (1.3%), and RNA-based nCounter methodology is a suitable approach for NRTK fusion identification in small biopsies.

Brominated flame retardants and natural organobrominated compounds in a vulnerable delphinid species along the Brazilian coast.

Guiana dolphins, Sotalia guianensis, are vulnerable to extinction along their distribution on the Brazilian coast and assessing chemical pollution is of utmost importance for their conservation. For this study, 51 carcasses of Guiana dolphins were sampled across the Brazilian coast to investigate legacy and emerging brominated flame retardants (BFRs) as well as the naturally-produced MeO-BDEs. PBDEs and MeO-BDEs were detected in all samples analyzed, whereas emerging BFRs were detected in 16 % of the samples, all in Rio de Janeiro state. PBDE concentrations varied between 2.24 and 799 ng.g-1 lipid weight (lw), emerging BFRs between 0.12 and 1.51 ng.g-1 lw and MeO-BDEs between 3.82 and 10,247 ng.g-1 lw. Concentrations of legacy and emerging BFRs and natural compounds varied considerably according to the sampling site and reflected both the local anthropogenic impact of the region and the diversity/mass of biosynthesizers. The PBDE concentrations are lower than what was found for delphinids in the Northern Hemisphere around the same sampling period and most sampling sites presented mean concentrations lower than the limits for endocrine disruption known to date for marine mammals of 460 ng.g-1 lw, except for sampled from Santa Catarina state, in Southern Brazil. Conversely, MeO-BDE concentrations are higher than those of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly close to the Abrolhos Bans and Royal Charlotte formation, that are hotspots for biodiversity. Despite the elevated concentrations reported for this group, there is not much information regarding the effects of such elevated concentrations for these marine mammals. The distinct patterns observed along the Brazilian coast show that organobrominated compounds can be used to identify the ecological segregation of delphinids and that conservation actions should be planned considering the local threats.

Diagnostic efficacy of posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction: a systematic review of literature.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a systematic review to examine the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, and radiography in the evaluation of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medline, Scopus, Embase, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for relevant studies through April 2023. The study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 scoring system. RESULTS: Of the initial 634 studies, 12 studies met the quality criteria and were included, with 645 PTTs evaluated with MRI, 133 with US, and 97 with radiography. MRI was found to be more sensitive and specific than ultrasound, radiography, and clinical evaluation for detecting PTTD, with a sensitivity of up to 95%, specificity of up to 100%, and accuracy of 96% for detecting PTT tears. US showed a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 90% for diagnosing tendinopathy, and a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 80% for diagnosing peritendinosis when compared to MRI. Weight-bearing radiographs had a sensitivity of 71.4%, specificity of 88.9%, and diagnostic accuracy of 81.3% when diagnosing PTT ruptures. Various radiologic measurements were also found to have a significant relationship with PTT tears but were poorly correlated with PTT tendinosis and isolated tenosynovitis. CONCLUSION: Magnetic resonance imaging is the preferred imaging tool for evaluating patients with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, with higher diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity compared to ultrasound and radiographic imaging. However, initial imaging with ultrasound and radiographs may be used due to their availability and cost-effectiveness. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: PTTD affects 3% of women ≥ 40 years and 10% of adults ≥ 65 years globally. Using the appropriate imaging study, MRI ensures that patients suffering from PTTD are diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. KEY POINTS: • This review aimed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of MRI, ultrasonography, and radiography in evaluating PTTD. • MRI outperformed ultrasound and radiography, with higher sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in detecting PTT tears. • MRI is the preferred imaging modality for the initial diagnosis of PTTD.

Comparison between ZOOMit DWI and conventional DWI in the assessment of foot and ankle infection: a prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to compare ZOOMit diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) MRI with conventional DWI MRI for visualizing small bones in the foot, soft tissue abscesses, and osteomyelitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cohort consisted of a consecutive series of patients with potential foot and ankle infections referred for MR imaging. Patients were imaged using both conventional and ZOOMit DWI in the same setting. Blinded reads were then conducted in separate settings and independent of known clinical diagnosis by two expert radiologists. The results from the reads were compared statistically using paired t-tests and with biopsy specimen analysis, both anatomopathological and microbiological. RESULTS: There was improvement in fat suppression using ZOOMit sequence compared to conventional DWI (p = .001) with no significant difference in motion artifacts (p = .278). ZOOMit had a higher rate of concordance with pathology findings for osteomyelitis (72%, 31/43 cases) compared with conventional DWI (60%, 26/43 cases). ZOOMit also identified 46 additional small bones of the foot and ankle (405/596, 68.0%) than conventional DWI (359/596, 60.2%). Conventional DWI however exhibited a more negative contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) than ZOOMit (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: ZOOMit DWI improves distal extremity proton diffusion assessment and helps visualize more bones in the foot, with less image distortion and improved fat saturation at the expense of reduced CNR. This makes it a viable option for assessing lower extremity infections. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: This study highlights the novel utilization of ZOOMit diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for the assessment of lower extremity lesions compared to conventional DWI. KEY POINTS: • Distal extremity diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is often limited. • ZOOMit DWI displayed improved fat suppression with less motion artifacts and better visualization of the lower extremity bones than conventional DWI. • ZOOMit shows decreased contrast-to-noise ratio than conventional DWI.

Environmental implications of combustion of rice husk at high temperatures and for an extended period for energy generation.

The most common alternative for the management and valorization of rice processing waste is the combustion of rice husk (RH) for energy generation. The environmental risk assessment of the ash generated during the combustion of the RH to obtain energy has remained understudied. Disposal of rice husk ash (RHA) on agricultural land is the most common outcome, which could pose a risk to both natural ecosystems and human health. The objective of this study was to characterize the physicochemical composition and the phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity of RHA obtained from three distinct combustion processes. The evaluation processes were 800-900 °C in up to 5 min (I), 800-900 °C in 15-20 min (II), and 600-700 °C in 15-20 min (III). Furthermore, the content, pH, and concentrations of Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, and Ti present in the ashes were determined. The germination index for two vegetable seeds was subsequently evaluated. By measuring the mitotic index and frequency of chromosomal aberrations, the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were determined. It was observed that RHA produced by combustion of RH at higher combustion temperatures for an extended period exhibited different physicochemical properties, in addition to higher levels of phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity.