Prediction of metabolic syndrome and its associated risk factors in patients with chronic kidney disease using machine learning techniques.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and metabolic syndrome (MS) are recognized as public health problems which are related to overweight and cardiometabolic factors. The aim of this study was to develop a model to predict MS in people with CKD. METHODS: This was a prospective cross-sectional study of patients from a reference center in São Luís, MA, Brazil. The sample included adult volunteers classified according to the presence of mild or severe CKD. For MS tracking, the k-nearest neighbors (KNN) classifier algorithm was used with the following inputs: gender, smoking, neck circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 196 adult patients were evaluated with a mean age of 44.73 years, 71.9% female, 69.4% overweight, and 12.24% with CKD. Of the latter, 45.8% had MS, the majority had up to 3 altered metabolic components, and the group with CKD showed statistical significance in: waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. The KNN algorithm proved to be a good predictor for MS screening with 79% accuracy and sensitivity and 80% specificity (area under the ROC curve - AUC = 0.79). CONCLUSION: The KNN algorithm can be used as a low-cost screening method to evaluate the presence of MS in people with CKD.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Oil and Its Nanoemulsion: Chemical Characterisation, Toxicity Evaluation, Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities.

This study explores a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil, known for its rich fatty acid composition and diverse biological activities. This study aimed to characterise a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil and explore its cytotoxic effects on HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines, alongside assessing its antioxidant and toxicity properties both in vitro and in vivo. Extracted from fruits sourced in Brazil, the oil underwent thorough chemical characterization using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The resulting nanoemulsion was prepared and evaluated for stability, particle size, and antioxidant properties. The nanoemulsion exhibited translucency, fluidity, and stability post centrifugation and temperature tests, with a droplet size of 238.37, PDI -9.59, pH 7, and turbidity 0.267. In vitro assessments on cervical cancer cell lines revealed antitumour effects, including inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation. Toxicity tests conducted in cell cultures and female Swiss mice demonstrated no adverse effects of both açaí seed oil and nanoemulsion. Overall, açaí seed oil, particularly when formulated into a nanoemulsion, presents potential for cancer treatment due to its bioactive properties and safety profile.

Impact of deep resection of endometriosis in the pelvis on urodynamic parameters.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of deep resection of endometriosis in the posterior pelvic region on urodynamic parameters. METHODS: A prospective observational study conducted with female patients diagnosed with deep pelvic endometriosis before and after endometriosis resection surgery. Clinical history, image exams, the Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire, urodynamic examination, cystometry, and voiding study were evaluated. RESULTS: Patients aged 30-39 years old, operative duration of 132.5 minutes, and 2.7 days of hospital stay. Uroflowmetry and cystometry showed tendency for an increase after the surgery in the flow duration, time to maximum flow, and first voiding desire and decreased residual volume and maximum cystometric capacity. Opening, maximum urinary flow, and maximum flow pressure decreased at T1, and the closing parameters increased, although statistically non significant. The variables decreased at T1 in the urodynamic, except for detrusor overactivity. Although we observed a reasonable number of low bladder compliance and abnormal bladder sensation, the results were maintained at T1. General scores for filling and incontinence showed a significant decrease after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: A significant response in the patient's perception of urinary function was demonstrated after surgery. It is observed that the surgical procedure did not affect the uroflowmetric and cystometric characteristics of the evaluated patients.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Oil Exerts a Cytotoxic Role over Colorectal Cancer Cells: Insights of Annexin A2 Regulation and Molecular Modeling.

Açaí, Euterpe oleracea Mart., is a native plant from the Amazonian and is rich in several phytochemicals with anti-tumor activities. The aim was to analyze the effects of açaí seed oil on colorectal adenocarcinoma (ADC) cells. In vitro analyses were performed on CACO-2, HCT-116, and HT-29 cell lines. The strains were treated with açaí seed oil for 24, 48, and 72 h, and cell viability, death, and morphology were analyzed. Molecular docking was performed to evaluate the interaction between the major compounds in açaí seed oil and Annexin A2. The viability assay showed the cytotoxic effect of the oil in colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. Acai seed oil induced increased apoptosis in CACO-2 and HCT-116 cells and interfered with the cell cycle. Western blotting showed an increased expression of LC3-B, suggestive of autophagy, and Annexin A2, an apoptosis regulatory protein. Molecular docking confirmed the interaction of major fatty acids with Annexin A2, suggesting a role of açaí seed oil in modulating Annexin A2 expression in these cancer cell lines. Our results suggest the anti-tumor potential of açaí seed oil in colorectal adenocarcinoma cells and contribute to the development of an active drug from a known natural product.

Impact of HPV-16 Lineages Infection in Response to Radio-Chemotherapy in Cervical Cancer.

BACKGROUND: HPV is strongly related to cervical cancer. HPV lineages can contribute to a response to cervical cancer therapy. The aim of this research was to estimate the frequency of human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 lineages in specimens of cervical cancer, relate the pathological factors in these variants, and assess their response to treatment with radical chemoradiotherapy. METHODS: Samples of cervical cancer were collected from women who were referred to a reference cancer hospital to test the presence of human papillomavirus-type DNA. The standard protocol of this service consisted of cisplatin-based chemotherapy of 40 mg/m2, plus conventional pelvic irradiation in doses of 45-50.4 Gy and high dose-rate brachytherapy of 28-30 Gy to Point A. The response to chemotherapy was evaluated after three months in patients with the HPV-16 lineage. RESULTS: HPV DNA was detected in 104 (88.1%) of the 118 patients. HPV-16 was present in 63 patients (53%). Lineages of HPV-16 were identified in 57 patients and comprised 33 instances of (57.8%) lineage A, 2 instances of lineage B (3.5%), 2 instances of lineage C (3.5%), and 20 instances of (35.0%) lineage D. The median age of the patients was 48.4 years (range 25-85 years). Squamous cell carcinoma was detected 48 times (84.2%). Adenocarcinoma was more likely to occur in lineage D, as three of the four cases occurred in this lineage. A total of 11 patients with the HPV-16 variant were treated with chemoradiotherapy. After three months, it was observed that nine of the eleven patients (81.8%) achieved a complete response, five with the lineage A type, two with the lineage C type, and two with the lineage D type. The two cases of partial response and disease progression, one of each, occurred in lineage A. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to the small number of patients and HPV variants, we noticed a better response in patients with the HPV-16 lineage A. Increasing the sample size could be helpful to better assess the impact of HPV variants on cervical cancer treatment.

Antitumor Effect of Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Extract in LNCaP Cells and in the Solid Ehrlich Carcinoma Model.

Euterpe oleracea (açaí) fruit has approximately 15% pulp, which is partly edible and commercialized, and 85% seeds. Although açaí seeds are rich in catechins-polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects-almost 935,000 tons/year of seeds are discarded as industrial waste. This work evaluated the antitumor properties of E. oleracea in vitro and in vivo in a solid Ehrlich tumor in mice. The seed extract presented 86.26 ± 0.189 mg of catechin/g of extract. The palm and pulp extracts did not exhibit in vitro antitumor activity, while the fruit and seed extracts showed cytotoxic effects on the LNCaP prostate cancer cell line, inducing mitochondrial and nuclear alterations. Oral treatments were performed daily at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of E. oleracea seed extract. The tumor development and histology were evaluated, along with immunological and toxicological parameters. Treatment at 400 mg/kg reduced the tumor size, nuclear pleomorphism, and mitosis figures, increasing tumor necrosis. Treated groups showed cellularity of lymphoid organs comparable to the untreated group, suggesting less infiltration in the lymph node and spleen and preservation of the bone marrow. The highest doses reduced IL-6 and induced IFN-γ, suggesting antitumor and immunomodulatory effects. Thus, açaí seeds can be an important source of compounds with antitumor and immunoprotective properties.

HPV 18 variants in women with cervical cancer in Northeast Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the main etiological factor for the development of cervical cancer. HPV 18 is the second most frequent type, accounting for up to 65% of all cases. HPV intratypic variation may influence the potential for progression to invasive cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of human papillomavirus 18 intratypic variants in cervical cancer samples from women in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. METHODS: The study included 118 women over 18 years of age with a diagnosis of cervical cancer. Tumor fragments were collected and subjected to DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for HPV detection using the PGMY09/11 and GP+5/6 primers. Positive samples were submitted to automated sequencing for viral genotyping. To determine the HPV 18 lineages, positive samples were submitted to PCR, using specific primers to amplify the LCR and E6 regions of HPV 18 virus. RESULTS: HPV was present in 88 women (73.3%). Of those, 48 (54%) were HPV 16, the most prevalent, followed by 12 (13.6%) HPV 18. Histologically, squamous cell carcinoma was predominant (79.1%). Among the HPV 18 variants identified, 10 (80%) belonged to lineage A, and sublineages A1, A2, A3, and A4. Two (29%) HPV 18 B variant was also detected, with the sublineages B1 and B2. In this study, the C variant was not found. There was no statistically significant association between the HPV 18 lineages found and sociodemographic and lifestyle variables (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A higher frequency of HPV 16 and 18 were found in women with cervical cancer in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, with a high prevalence of the lineage A among women with HPV 18.

HPV 18 variants in women with cervical cancer in Northeast Brazil

Abstract Background Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the main etiological factor for the development of cervical cancer. HPV 18 is the second most frequent type, accounting for up to 65% of all cases. HPV intratypic variation may influence the potential for progression to invasive cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of human papillomavirus 18 intratypic variants in cervical cancer samples from women in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. Methods The study included 118 women over 18 years of age with a diagnosis of cervical cancer. Tumor fragments were collected and subjected to DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for HPV detection using the PGMY09/11 and GP+5/6 primers. Positive samples were submitted to automated sequencing for viral genotyping. To determine the HPV 18 lineages, positive samples were submitted to PCR, using specific primers to amplify the LCR and E6 regions of HPV 18 virus. Results HPV was present in 88 women (73.3%). Of those, 48 (54%) were HPV 16, the most prevalent, followed by 12 (13.6%) HPV 18. Histologically, squamous cell carcinoma was predominant (79.1%). Among the HPV 18 variants identified, 10 (80%) belonged to lineage A, and sublineages A1, A2, A3, and A4. Two (29%) HPV 18 B variant was also detected, with the sublineages B1 and B2. In this study, the C variant was not found. There was no statistically significant association between the HPV 18 lineages found and sociodemographic and lifestyle variables (p > 0.05). Conclusions A higher frequency of HPV 16 and 18 were found in women with cervical cancer in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, with a high prevalence of the lineage A among women with HPV 18.

Impact of deep resection of endometriosis in the pelvis on urodynamic parameters

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of deep resection of endometriosis in the posterior pelvic region on urodynamic parameters. Methods: A prospective observational study conducted with female patients diagnosed with deep pelvic endometriosis before and after endometriosis resection surgery. Clinical history, image exams, the Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire, urodynamic examination, cystometry, and voiding study were evaluated. Results: Patients aged 30-39 years old, operative duration of 132.5 minutes, and 2.7 days of hospital stay. Uroflowmetry and cystometry showed tendency for an increase after the surgery in the flow duration, time to maximum flow, and first voiding desire and decreased residual volume and maximum cystometric capacity. Opening, maximum urinary flow, and maximum flow pressure decreased at T1, and the closing parameters increased, although statistically non significant. The variables decreased at T1 in the urodynamic, except for detrusor overactivity. Although we observed a reasonable number of low bladder compliance and abnormal bladder sensation, the results were maintained at T1. General scores for filling and incontinence showed a significant decrease after surgery. Conclusions: A significant response in the patient's perception of urinary function was demonstrated after surgery. It is observed that the surgical procedure did not affect the uroflowmetric and cystometric characteristics of the evaluated patients.

Ultrastructural changes induced by açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart) in MCF-7 breast cancer cell line.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart) is an Amazon plant with many biological properties. Previous report of this group evidenced autophagy induction after treatment with açaí seed extract in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines by acridine orange assay. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ultrastructural changes induced by açaí seed extract in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. First, MCF- 7 breast cancer cell line viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Acridine orange assay showed increase in the acidic compartments, suggesting autophagolysosome formation. These cells were treated with 25 µg/ml for 24 h and evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (MET). This analysis showed that açaí seed extract induced autophagy, confirmed by autophagolysosome formation. Furthermore, açaí seed extract increased the number of mitochondria, suggesting the enrollment of reactive oxygen species in autophagy.

Human Papillomavirus Modulates Matrix Metalloproteinases During Carcinogenesis: Clinical Significance and Role of Viral Oncoproteins.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are associated with cervical cancer and other anogenital cancers. Despite progresses in HPV vaccination and screening, these cancers still show high incidence and mortality, requiring improved prognostic markers and tailored therapies. This review addresses the role of Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in HPV-induced cancers and the modulation of MMP expression by HPV oncoproteins. Scientific literature indexed in PubMed and ScienceDirect about Human papillomavirus modulates matrix metalloproteinases was retrieved and critically analyzed, to obtain an overview of expression patterns and their implications for carcinogenesis and patient prognosis. Matrix metalloproteinases such as MMP1, MMP9 and MMP13 have been associated with patient prognosis in HPV-induced cancers and play a major role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix, tumor invasion and metastasis. The HPV E2 and E7 oncoproteins regulate MMP expression via AKT, MEK/ERK and AP-1 signaling among other mechanisms. Increased expression of MMPs is associated with cancer progression and poor prognosis in multiple HPV-induced cancers, suggesting their potential use as prognostic markers. The identification of specific signaling pathways that mediate MMP regulation by HPV is essential for developing efficient new cancer therapies.

Síndrome congênita pelo vírus zika: análise das redes de apoio de pais / Síndrome congénito por el virus del zika: análisis de las redes de apoyo de padres / Congenital zika syndrome: analysis of parent support networks

Resumo Objetivo Compreender o papel das redes de apoio no cuidado de crianças acometidas pela Síndrome Congênita pelo Vírus Zika. Métodos Estudo qualitativo, realizado em Centro de Referência Estadual em Neurodesenvolvimento, no nordeste brasileiro, entre abril de 2017 e fevereiro de 2018. Participaram pais de crianças com microcefalia atendidos no local. Foram realizadas 18 entrevistas semiestruturadas, sendo três com pai e mãe e 15 somente com mães, totalizando 21 participantes. A amostra foi definida pelo critério de saturação e foi utilizada análise de conteúdo na modalidade temática. Resultados Os resultados são apresentados a partir das categorias de análise "rede informal" e "rede formal". A rede de apoio informal, especialmente os avós, exerceu importante suporte emocional e financeiro aos pais. As redes sociais virtuais se destacaram como espaço de compartilhamento de informações e experiências. Quanto à rede de apoio formal, as famílias estabeleceram vínculos mais fortes com profissionais da atenção especializada que ofertaram suporte técnico e acolhimento aos pais e às crianças. Já a atenção primária desempenhou mais o papel de encaminhamento para a atenção especializada. Foram relatados diferentes graus de resolutividade por parte dos municípios, em termos de programas, de atuação de gestores e de profissionais. Conclusão As redes informais e formais atuaram de modo complementar no tratamento e apoio às crianças com Síndrome Congênita pelo Vírus Zika. A inserção em diferentes redes informais possibilitou apoio social para enfrentar o impacto provocado pela doença. Apesar do investimento do Ministério da Saúde na atenção primária foi identificada fragilidade neste nível de atenção.

Resumen Objetivo Comprender el papel de las redes de apoyo en el cuidado de niños afectados por el síndrome congénito por el virus del zika. Métodos Estudio cualitativo, realizado en un Centro de Referencia Regional en Neurodesarrollo, en el nordeste brasileño, entre abril de 2017 y febrero de 2018. Participaron padres de niños con microcefalia atendidos en el lugar. Se realizaron 18 entrevistas semiestructuradas, de las cuales tres fueron con el padre y la madre y 15 solo con madres, un total de 21 participantes. La muestra fue definida por el criterio de saturación y se utilizó análisis de contenido en la modalidad temática. Resultados Los resultados se presentan a partir de las categorías de análisis "red informal" y "red formal". La red de apoyo informal, especialmente los abuelos, ejerció un importante soporte emocional y financiero para los padres. Las redes sociales virtuales se destacaron como un espacio para compartir información y experiencias. Respecto a la red de apoyo formal, las familias establecieron vínculos más fuertes con profesionales de la atención especializada, que ofrecieron soporte técnico y acogida a los padres y a los niños. Por otro lado, la atención primaria cumplió más el papel de derivar a la atención especializada. Se relataron diferentes niveles de resolución de problemas por parte de los municipios, en términos de programas, de actuación de gestores y de profesionales. Conclusión Las redes informales y formales actuaron de modo complementario en el tratamiento y apoyo a niños con síndrome congénito por el virus del zika. La inserción en diferentes redes informales permitió un apoyo social para enfrentar el impacto provocado por la enfermedad. A pesar de las inversiones en atención primaria del Ministerio de Salud, se identificó fragilidad en este nivel de atención.

Abstract Objective To understand the role of support networks in the care of children affected by Congenital Zika Syndrome. Methods This is a qualitative study, conducted at a State Reference Center on Neurodevelopment, in northeastern Brazil, between April 2017 and February 2018. Parents of children with microcephaly treated at the site participated. 18 semi-structured interviews were conducted, three with father and mother and 15 only with mothers, totaling 21 participants. The sample was defined by the saturation criterion and content analysis was used in the thematic modality. Results The results are presented from the categories of analysis "informal network" and "formal network". The informal support network, especially grandparents, exercised important emotional and financial support to parents. Virtual social networks stood out as a space for sharing information and experiences. Regarding the formal support network, the families established stronger bonds with specialized care professionals who offered technical support and care to parents and children. Primary care, on the other, played the role of referral to specialized care. Different degrees of resolution were reported by the municipalities, in terms of programs, the performance of managers and professionals. Conclusion Formal and formal networks acted in a complementary way in the treatment and support of children with Congenital Zika Syndrome. The insertion in different indirect networks allowed social support to face the impact caused by the disease. Despite the ministry of health's investment in primary care, fragility was identified in this level of care.

Açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Extract Induces ROS Production and Cell Death in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line.

Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açai) is a native palm from the Amazon region. There are various chemical constituents of açai with bioactive properties. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and cytotoxic effects of açai seed extract on breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking (GNPS) was applied to identify chemical compounds present in açai seed extract. LC-MS/MS and molecular networking were employed to detect the phenolic compounds of açai. The antioxidant activity of açai seed extract was measured by DPPH assay. MCF-7 breast cancer cell line viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Cell death was evaluated by flow cytometry and time-lapse microscopy. Autophagy was evaluated by orange acridin immunofluorescence assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was evaluated by DAF assay. From the molecular networking, fifteen compounds were identified, mainly phenolic compounds. The açai seed extract showed cytotoxic effects against MCF-7, induced morphologic changes in the cell line by autophagy and increased the ROS production pathway. The present study suggests that açai seed extract has a high cytotoxic capacity and may induce autophagy by increasing ROS production in breast cancer. Apart from its antioxidant activity, flavonoids with high radical scavenging activity present in açai also generated NO (nitric oxide), contributing to its cytotoxic effect and autophagy induction.

Quality of life of mothers of children with congenital syndrome affected by zika virus / Qualidade de vida de mães de crianças com síndrome congênita afetadas pelo zika vírus

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate how mothers of children with congenital syndrome (microcephaly) associated with Zika virus perceive their quality of life. Methods: This is a qualitative study carried out in two stages: at the Maternal and Child University Hospital and at Casa de Apoio Ninar through semi-structured interviews with mothers of children with congenital syndrome associated with Zika virus. Ten women comprised the sample. Results: In line with the critical discourse analysis, four categories emerged based on Fairclough's 2008 assumptions: Quality of Life and Health - quality of life perception associated with the broad meaning of the term health; Quality of Life and Health Care Systems - characterized by care instability and fragmentation; Quality of Life and Free Time - lack of free time for activities of daily living and leisure; Quality of Life and Future Perspectives - lack of future perspective, considering that most participants had to stop working and studying to take care of their children. Conclusions: Mothers of children with congenital syndrome associated with Zika virus are devoted to their children's care. Their lack of prospects was considered a consequence of the lack of time for activities of daily living and leisure.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a percepção da qualidade de vida das mães de crianças portadoras de síndrome congênita (microcefalia) associada ao Zika vírus. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo realizado em duas etapas. A primeira foi conduzida no Hospital Universitário Materno-Infantil e a segunda na Casa de Apoio Ninar, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada com mães de crianças que apresentam a síndrome congênita associada ao Zika vírus. A amostra foi composta por 10 mulheres. Resultados: Em consonância com a análise crítica do discurso, segundo os pressupostos de Fairclough, de 2008, quatro categorias emergiram: Qualidade de Vida e Saúde - a percepção da qualidade de vida está vinculada ao significado amplo do termo saúde; Redes de Qualidade de Vida e Atenção à Saúde - caracterizadas por precariedade e fragmentação do cuidado; Qualidade de Vida e Tempo Livre - falta de tempo livre para realizar atividades da vida diária e lazer; Qualidade de Vida e Perspectivas Futuras - foi abordada a falta de perspectiva futura, uma vez que a maioria das participantes teve que parar de trabalhar e estudar para cuidar dos filhos. Conclusões: Mães de crianças com síndrome congênita associada ao vírus Zika são totalmente dedicadas ao cuidado de seus filhos. A falta de perspectivas para o futuro foi considerada em decorrência da falta de tempo para lazer e atividade da vida diária.

Marine-Derived Penicillium purpurogenum Reduces Tumor Size and Ameliorates Inflammation in an Erlich Mice Model.

BACKGROUND: This study addresses the antitumoral properties of Penicillium purpurogenum isolated from a polluted lagoon in Northeastern Brazil. METHODS: Ethyl Acetate Extracellular Extract (EAE) was used. The metabolites were studied using direct infusion mass spectrometry. The solid Ehrlich tumor model was used for antitumor activity. Female Swiss mice were divided into groups (n = 10/group) as follows: The negative control (CTL-), treated with a phosphate buffered solution; the positive control (CTL+), treated with cyclophosphamide (25 mg/kg); extract treatments at doses of 4, 20, and 100 mg/kg; animals without tumors or treatments (Sham); and animals without tumors treated with an intermediate dose (EAE20). All treatments were performed intraperitoneally, daily, for 15 days. Subsequently, the animals were euthanized, and the tumor, lymphoid organs, and serum were used for immunological, histological, and biochemical parameter evaluations. RESULTS: The extract was rich in meroterpenoids. All doses significantly reduced tumor size, and the 20 and 100 mg/kg doses reduced tumor-associated inflammation and tumor necrosis. The extract also reduced the cellular infiltration of lymphoid organs and circulating TNF-α levels. The extract did not induce weight loss or renal and hepatic toxic changes. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that P. purpurogenum exhibits immunomodulatory and antitumor properties in vivo. Thus, fungal fermentation is a valid biotechnological approach to the production of antitumor agents.

Babassu (Attalea glassmanii Zona) Nut Oil Is More Effective than Olive Oil for Treating Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in Western civilizations. The type of fatty acid which makes up the diet is related to the cardiovascular morbimortality and the formation of atheromas. Populations with high consumption of oils and fats have a higher number of deaths from CVD. PURPOSE: In the present study, the objective was to comparatively analyze the microcirculatory effects of unrefined babassu oil with olive oil in microcirculation and liver of male hamsters of the species Mesocricetus auratus, checking the permeability to macromolecules after ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) without and with topical application of histamine 5 × 10-6 M. This is an experimental study, using as model the hamster's cheek pouch, which was prepared for intravital microscopy. The hamsters were divided into seven groups and orally treated for 14 days, twice a day (at 8 AM and 4 PM), orally received treatments in the following doses: unrefined babassu oil (BO) 0.02 mL/dose (group BO-2), 0.06 mL/dose (group BO-6), and 0.18 mL/dose (BO-18 group); extra virgin olive oil (OI) 0.02 mL/dose (group OI-2), 0.06 mL/dose (group OI-6), and 0.18 mL/dose (OI-18 group); and mineral oil (MO) 0.18 mL/dose (MO-18 group). The observations were made on the 15th day on the hamsters' cheek pouch; the increase of vascular permeability induced by I/R with and without histamine application was evaluated, and in the liver the biological material was collected aseptically then fixed in 10% buffered formalin. RESULTS: Microcirculatory analyses showed a significant reduction in the number of leaks after I/R with and without the topical use of histamine in animals treated with unrefined BO 0.06 mL/dose (BO-6) and 0.18 mL/dose (BO-18) compared to animals treated with OI. The BO group (p < 0.001) presented a dose-response relationship for decreasing leaks after I/R with and without topical use of histamine. Histological liver analyses showed no fat deposition changes in any of the treatment groups. Phytochemical analyses evidenced a chemical compound (C31H60NO8) in unrefined BO but not in OI. CONCLUSIONS: This experiment demonstrates the protective effect of unrefined BO on the microcirculatory system and its greater dose effect than that of OI. Finding a chemical compound (C31H60NO8) that is present in BO but not in OI opens the possibility of investigating whether this chemical compound was responsible for the protective effect on membrane permeability.

Hormonal, metabolic and inflammatory circulating biomarker profiles in obese and non-obese Brazilian middle-aged women.

AIM: To investigate circulating hormonal, metabolic and inflammatory biomarker profiles in obese and non-obese middle-aged women. METHODS: A total of 110 women, aged 40-60 years, were included in this cross-sectional study. Patients were allocated, according to the occurrence of menopause and body mass index (BMI), into four groups: PM0 (premenopausal non-obese), PM1 (premenopausal obese), M0 (postmenopausal non-obese), and M1 (postmenopausal obese). Serum levels of gonadotropins, sex hormones, lipid markers, leptin, hs-CRP and interleukin-6 were obtained using either colorimetric or immunoenzymatic assays. Univariate and correlation analyses were performed among all clinical and laboratorial parameters. Principal component analysis was used to characterize subsets of biomarkers, which had their discriminatory capacity tested using discriminant function analysis. RESULTS: Levels of gonadotropins and female sex hormones were similar between PM0 and PM1 and between M0 and M1 (p > 0.05), all of them varied between PM0 and M0 (p < 0.05), but only estradiol was significantly altered in the comparison between PM1 and M1 (p = 0.027). Regarding metabolic markers, leptin was lower in PM0 than in M0 (p = 0.010) and higher in M1 than in M0 (p = 0.046). In premenopausal women, BMI correlated only to leptin, while it correlated to several other markers in postmenopausal women. A combination of FSH and leptin serum levels significantly discriminated the four groups (Wilks's lambda < 0.001, in canonical functions 1 and 2). CONCLUSION: A combined analysis of hormonal biomarkers may potentially distinguish obese from non-obese women with distinct menopause status. Further research is thus required to clarify the clinical significance of such findings.

Human Papillomavirus and Coronary Artery Disease in Climacteric Women: Is There an Association?

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases are leading causes of death worldwide. Recent studies suggest that infection by some viruses, including the human papillomavirus (HPV), may increase the risk of developing atheromatous lesions on coronary arteries. However, there is a lack of data regarding the possible association between HPV infection and coronary artery disease (CAD) in women. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether HPV infection is associated with the occurrence of CAD among climacteric women. METHODS: The presence of CAD and cervical HPV DNA was investigated in 52 climacteric women. Social and demographic variables and metabolic profiles were also investigated. RESULTS: Among 27 women with CAD, 16 were positive for HPV, whereas 11 were negative. The presence of cervical HPV was strongly associated with CAD, after adjusting for demographic variables, health and sexual behaviors, comorbidities, and known cardiovascular risk factors. HPV-positive women showed a greater likelihood of having CAD (odds ratio [OR] = 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16 to 11.96) as compared with HPV-negative women, particularly those infected with high-risk HPV types (OR = 4.90; 95% CI: 1.26 to 19.08). CONCLUSION: These results support the hypothesis that HPV infection might be associated with CAD among climacteric women, though further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms involved.

Prevalence of human papillomavirus infection among women from quilombo communities in northeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a member of the Papillomaviridae family. The prevalence of HPV genotypes may vary according to the region and the population studied. Quilombo communities are ethnic and racial groups with difficult access to health services compared to the general population in Brazil. The aim of this study was to identify specific HPV types correlating with sociodemographic/behavioral characteristics and cervical smear cytological abnormalities in Quilombola women. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 395 Quilombola women users of the Unified Health System of the Municipalities of Maranhão for the screening of cervical cancer. The samples were analyzed for the presence of cytological abnormalities by conventional methods and tested for 37 HPV genotypes using polymerase chain reaction with primers PGMY09/11 followed by reverse line blot hybridization performed with the Linear Array HPV Genotyping Test kit by Roche Molecular System®. The association between HPV types and cytological diagnosis was investigated according to the different age groups. RESULTS: HPV infection was detected in 12.6% (50/395) of the women. Infections by high-risk HPV types were more frequent. Genotypes 68 (26.0%); 58 and 52 (20.0%); 31 (10.0%) and 62 (8.0%) were the most prevalent. The highest prevalence (42.0%) of HPV infection occurred in women diagnosed with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. There was a statistically significant association between HPV infection and the detection of cytological abnormalities in all age groups except in women over 60 years. There was a statistically significant association between the municipality of origin and the number of partners with HPV infection. CONCLUSIONS: It is important to incorporate new cervical cancer screening techniques incorporating the cervical-vaginal cytology. For further studies, it is necessary to determine the level of knowledge of Quilombola population on health-related issues including HPV infection and cervical cancer. This will contribute to the continuous improvement of healthcare coverage among the population and enhance the implementation of cancer care in the state of Maranhão.

Influencia do uso de chupetas e mamadeiras na prática do aleitamento materno / Influence of the use of artificial nipples and baby bottles in breastfeeding

Objetivo: Verificar, na mais recente literatura, o efeito dos bicos artificiais, como mamadeiras e chupetas, sobre a prática do aleitamento materno. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão da literatura nas bases de dados LILACS, SciELO e PubMed, considerando estudos originais publicados entre os anos de 2010 e 2015, em português e inglês, utilizando-se os descritores "chupetas", "amamentação", "mamadeiras", "desmame" e "alimentação artificial", combinados ou isolados, com seus respectivos correspondentes na língua inglesa. Resultados: foram incluídos 25 artigos conforme os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Estudos apontaram uma relação entre o desmame e o uso de chupetas, e o desmame e uso de chupetas e outros bicos artificiais. Além disso, os estudos evidenciaram que a redução no uso de chupeta gera um aumento na duração do aleitamento. Outras variáveis comuns relacionadas ao desmame relatadas na literatura foram: ausência materna, trabalhar fora ou falta de proteção legal, baixa escolaridade materna, idade materna e problemas relacionados às mamas e nascimento em unidade não "Hospital Amigo da Criança". Conclusões: O uso de bicos artificiais está sendo relacionado ao desmame precoce ou à diminuição da duração do aleitamento materno. Necessita-se ainda que outros estudos sejam realizados a fim de compreender melhor como os bicos artificiais agem sobre as habilidades orais da criança. (AU)

Objective: To verify, in the most recent literature, the effect of artificial nipples, such as baby bottles and pacifiers, on the practice of breastfeeding. Methods: A review of the literature in the LILACS, SciELO and PubMed databases was carried out, considering original studies published between the years 2010 and 2015, in Portuguese and English, using the descriptors "pacifiers", "breastfeeding", "Weaning", and "artificial feeding", combined or isolated. Results: 25 articles were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies have pointed out a relationship between weaning and the use of pacifiers, and the weaning and use of pacifiers and other artificial nipples. In addition, studies have shown that reduction in pacifier use leads to an increase in the duration of breastfeeding. Other common variables related to weaning reported in the literature were maternal absence, working out or lack of legal protection, low maternal schooling, maternal age and problems related to breasts and birth in a non-baby friendly hospital. Conclusions: The use of artificial nipples is being related to early weaning or shortening the duration of breastfeeding. Further studies are needed to better understand how artificial nipples act on a child's oral skills. (AU)