Differentiation between normal and metastatic lymph nodes in patients with skin melanoma: Preliminary findings using a DIXON-based whole-body MRI approach.

Purpose: Metastatic melanoma lymph nodes (MMLns) might be challenging to detect on MR-WBI, as both MMLns and normal lymph nodes (NLns) can show restricted water diffusion. Our purpose is to assess the potential contribution of the DIXON sequence in differentiating MMLns from NLns. Material and methods: We followed a cohort of 107 patients with stage IIIb/c and IV skin melanoma for 32 months using MR-WBI with DIXON, STIR, and DWI/ADC sequences. We compared signal intensity (SI) values of MMLns and NLns in the four series of the DIXON sequence (in/out-of-phase, fat_only, and water_only series). The fat fraction (SIfat_only/SIin) and the long:short axis ratio of MMLns were calculated. The fat fraction was also calculated in the fatty hila of NLns. Results: All MMLns (8 from 7 patients) showed SIout>SIin with a mean fat fraction of 10%. In 40 normal fatty hila (25 patients), the proportion of SIout>SIin was 100% and mean fat fraction was 89% (p<0.001 for fat fraction, Mann-Whitney U-test). In the cortex of NLns, a SIout>SIin pattern was identified in 41/113 cases from 19/40 patients. The median long:short axis ratio in MMLns was 1.13 (range 1.03-1.25). Conclusion: The combination of three features of MMLns (SIout>SIin, low-fat fraction and rounded shape) might hold promise in differentiating NLns from MMLns in patients with skin melanoma. Further research is warranted due to the small number of MMLns in our cohort.

Prevalence of canalis sinuosus and accessory canals of canalis sinuosus on cone beam computed tomography: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the prevalence of the canalis sinuosus (CS) and accessory canals of the canalis sinuosus (ACCS) as identified on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Online searches were conducted in the MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, LILACS, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, and SIGLE (via OpenGrey) databases. Primary studies that determined the prevalence of canalis sinuosus and/or its anatomical variations using CBCT were included. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the AQUA tool. The quality effects model using double arcsine transformation was used for the meta-analysis of prevalence. Heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Of 3237 initial results, 17 papers were included for systematic review. The meta-analysis comprising 1994 patients showed a pooled prevalence of CS of 0.80 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51-0.99; P = 0.001; I2 = 99%). Publication bias analysis revealed minor asymmetry (LFK index 1.84). The meta-analysis of 4605 patients showed a pooled prevalence of ACCS of 0.54 (95% CI 0.38-0.69; P = 0.001; I2 = 99%). The sensitivity analysis showed a pooled prevalence of ACCS of 0.53 (95% CI 0.32-0.74; P = 0.001; I2 = 99%) for studies with ≥ 1000 patients and 0.55 (95% CI 0.33-0.76; P = 0.001; I2 = 98%) for studies with< 1000 patients. Canalis sinuosus showed a pooled prevalence of 0.80 and ACCS showed a pooled prevalence of 0.54; hence both should be considered as anatomical structures, which means that they are present in most people. Surgeons must be aware of the CS and ACCS on CBCT analysis during pre-surgical planning. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020154195.

The alternative analog plasticizer BPS displays similar phenotypic and metabolomic responses to BPA in HepG2 and INS-1E cells.

Bisphenols A (BPA) and S (BPS) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that affect energy metabolism, leading to impairment of glucose and lipid homeostasis. We aimed at identifying metabolic pathways regulated by both compounds in human liver cells and rat pancreatic ß-cells that could impair energy homeostasis regulation. We assessed the effects on growth, proliferation, and viability of hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) and insulinoma (INS-1E) cells exposed to either BPA or BPS in a full range concentration between 0.001 and 100 µM. Both the dose and duration of exposure caused a differential response on growth and viability of both cells. Effects were more pronounced on HepG2, as these cells exhibited non-linear dose-responses following exposure to xenobiotics. For INS-1E, effect was observed only at the highest concentration. In addition, we profiled their intracellular state by untargeted metabolomics at 24, 48, and 72 h of exposure. This analysis revealed time- and dose-dependently molecular changes for HepG2 and INS-1E that were similar between BPA and BPS. Both increased levels of inflammatory mediators, such as metabolites pertaining to linolenic and linoleic acid metabolic pathway. In summary, this study shows that BPS also disrupts molecular functions in cells that regulate energy homeostasis, displaying similar but less pronounced responses than BPA.

Use of MALDI-TOF for identification and surveillance of gram-negative bacteria in captive wild psittacines / Uso do MALDI-TOF para identificação e monitoramento de bactérias Gram-negativas em psitacídeos cativos

Microbiological studies of the sanitary and health status of psittacine birds that will be reintroduced is important in evaluating whether these animals act as carriers of pathogenic agents to other animals and humans. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a faster and more accurate method to identify bacteria than conventional microbiology methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of psittacines housed in captivity, by assessment of Gram-negative bacteria from fecal microbiota through MALDI- TOF MS identification. The results indicate high frequency of Gram-negative bacteria in feces (96.5%), especially from the Enterobacteriaceae family (88.7%). The most prevalent bacteria were Escherichia coli (39.0%), Proteus vulgaris (12.2%), Klebsiella spp. (12.1%) and Raoultella ornithinolytica (8.7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. and Escherichia hermannii were isolated with lower frequency. . All these agents are potentially pathogenic for parrots and can cause systemic infections in other animals and humans. These findings reinforce that MALDI- TOF MS proved to be a rapid and accurate method of identification of the microorganism and evaluation of the health status of psittacines, providing relevant data to assist decision-making regarding the sanitary protocols in wildlife centers, and possible future reintroduction of wild birds.

Estudos microbiológicos da sanidade de psitacídeos que serão reintroduzidos são importantes para avaliar se esses animais atuam como portadores de agentes patogênicos para outros animais e humanos. A espectrometria de massa por ionização/dessorção de matriz assistida por laser/tempo de vôo (MALDI-TOF MS) é um método mais rápido e preciso para identificar bactérias na comparação com métodos convencionais de microbiologia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o estado de saúde de psitacídeos cativos, identificando bactérias Gram-negativas da microbiota fecal por MALDI -TOF MS. Os resultados indicaram alta frequência de bactérias Gram-negativas nas fezes (96,5%), principalmente da família Enterobacteriaceae (88,7%). As mais prevalentes foram Escherichia coli (39,0%), Proteus vulgaris (12,2%), Klebsiella spp. (12,1%) e Raoultella ornithinolytica (8,7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. e Escherichia hermannii foram isolados com menor frequência. Todos esses agentes são potencialmente patogênicos para os papagaios e podem causar infecções sistêmicas em outros animais e seres humanos. Esses achados reforçam que o MALDI- TOF MS é um método rápido e preciso de identificação do microrganismo e avaliação do estado de saúde dos psitacídeos, fornecendo dados relevantes para auxiliar na tomada de decisões sobre os protocolos sanitários em centros de triagem de animais selvagens e sobre a possibilidade de reintrodução futura.

Use of MALDI-TOF for identification and surveillance of gramnegative bacteria in captive wild psittacines / Uso do MALDI-TOF para identificação e monitoramento de bactérias Gram negativas em psitacídeos cativos

Microbiological studies of the sanitary and health status of psittacine birds that will be reintroduced is important in evaluating whether these animals act as carriers of pathogenic agents to other animals and humans. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a faster and more accurate method to identify bacteria than conventional microbiology methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of psittacines housed in captivity, by assessment of Gram-negative bacteria from fecal microbiota through MALDI- TOF MS identification. The results indicate high frequency of Gram-negative bacteria in feces (96.5%), especially from the Enterobacteriaceae family (88.7%). The most prevalent bacteria were Escherichia coli (39.0%), Proteus vulgaris (12.2%), Klebsiella spp. (12.1%) and Raoultella ornithinolytica (8.7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. and Escherichia hermannii were isolated with lower frequency. . All these agents are potentially pathogenic for parrots and can cause systemic infections in other animals and humans. These findings reinforce that MALDI- TOF MS proved to be a rapid and accurate method of identification of the microorganism and evaluation of the health status of psittacines, providing relevant data to assist decision-making regarding the sanitary protocols in wildlife centers, and possible future reintroduction of wild birds.

Estudos microbiológicos da sanidade de psitacídeos que serão reintroduzidos são importantes para avaliar se esses animais atuam como portadores de agentes patogênicos para outros animais e humanos. A espectrometria de massa por ionização/dessorção de matriz assistida por laser/tempo de vôo (MALDI-TOF MS) é um método mais rápido e preciso para identificar bactérias na comparação com métodos convencionais de microbiologia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o estado de saúde de psitacídeos cativos, identificando bactérias Gram-negativas da microbiota fecal por MALDI -TOF MS. Os resultados indicaram alta frequência de bactérias Gram-negativas nas fezes (96,5%), principalmente da família Enterobacteriaceae (88,7%). As mais prevalentes foram Escherichia coli (39,0%), Proteus vulgaris (12,2%), Klebsiella spp. (12,1%) e Raoultella ornithinolytica (8,7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. e Escherichia hermannii foram isolados com menor frequência. Todos esses agentes são potencialmente patogênicos para os papagaios e podem causar infecções sistêmicas em outros animais e seres humanos. Esses achados reforçam que o MALDI- TOF MS é um método rápido e preciso de identificação do microrganismo e avaliação do estado de saúde dos psitacídeos, fornecendo dados relevantes para auxiliar na tomada de decisões sobre os protocolos sanitários em centros de triagem de animais selvagens e sobre a possibilidade de reintrodução futura.

Use of MALDI-TOF for identification and surveillance of gram-negative bacteria in captive wild psittacines

Abstract Microbiological studies of the sanitary and health status of psittacine birds that will be reintroduced is important in evaluating whether these animals act as carriers of pathogenic agents to other animals and humans. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a faster and more accurate method to identify bacteria than conventional microbiology methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of psittacines housed in captivity, by assessment of Gram-negative bacteria from fecal microbiota through MALDI- TOF MS identification. The results indicate high frequency of Gram-negative bacteria in feces (96.5%), especially from the Enterobacteriaceae family (88.7%). The most prevalent bacteria were Escherichia coli (39.0%), Proteus vulgaris (12.2%), Klebsiella spp. (12.1%) and Raoultella ornithinolytica (8.7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. and Escherichia hermannii were isolated with lower frequency. . All these agents are potentially pathogenic for parrots and can cause systemic infections in other animals and humans. These findings reinforce that MALDI- TOF MS proved to be a rapid and accurate method of identification of the microorganism and evaluation of the health status of psittacines, providing relevant data to assist decision-making regarding the sanitary protocols in wildlife centers, and possible future reintroduction of wild birds.

Resumo Estudos microbiológicos da sanidade de psitacídeos que serão reintroduzidos são importantes para avaliar se esses animais atuam como portadores de agentes patogênicos para outros animais e humanos. A espectrometria de massa por ionização/dessorção de matriz assistida por laser/tempo de vôo (MALDI-TOF MS) é um método mais rápido e preciso para identificar bactérias na comparação com métodos convencionais de microbiologia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o estado de saúde de psitacídeos cativos, identificando bactérias Gram-negativas da microbiota fecal por MALDI -TOF MS. Os resultados indicaram alta frequência de bactérias Gram-negativas nas fezes (96,5%), principalmente da família Enterobacteriaceae (88,7%). As mais prevalentes foram Escherichia coli (39,0%), Proteus vulgaris (12,2%), Klebsiella spp. (12,1%) e Raoultella ornithinolytica (8,7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. e Escherichia hermannii foram isolados com menor frequência. Todos esses agentes são potencialmente patogênicos para os papagaios e podem causar infecções sistêmicas em outros animais e seres humanos. Esses achados reforçam que o MALDI- TOF MS é um método rápido e preciso de identificação do microrganismo e avaliação do estado de saúde dos psitacídeos, fornecendo dados relevantes para auxiliar na tomada de decisões sobre os protocolos sanitários em centros de triagem de animais selvagens e sobre a possibilidade de reintrodução futura.

WITHDRAWN: Evaluation and clinical quantification of neoplastic lesions and physiological structures in TOF-PET/MRI and non-TOF/MRI - a pilot study.

Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher.

Evaluation of propanediol and cobalamin metabolism in the intestinal colonization and systemic invasion of Salmonella Enteritidis in laying hens / [Avaliação do metabolismo do propanodiol e da cobalamina na colonização intestinal e na infecção sistêmica de Salmonella Enteritidis em poedeiras]

Embora Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) seja capaz de metabolizar 1,2-propanodiol (1,2-Pd), utilizado como fonte de carbono e de energia ao longo de uma rota dependente de vitamina B12, a importância deste composto na infeção de Gallus gallus domesticus por SE permanece desconhecida. No presente estudo, foram construídos um mutante de SE sem os genes pduCDE, que codifica a propanodiol desidratase (Pdu), e outro contendo as deleções no pduCDE e também nos genes cobS e cbiA, responsáveis pela síntese de vitamina B12. Em seguida, avaliou-se a importância do metabolismo do 1,2-Pd em SE para colonização intestinal de infecção sistêmica de poedeiras comerciais. As estirpes mutantes de SE foram capazes de colonizar o intestino, de serem excretadas nas fezes e de invadir o baço e o fígado na mesma intensidade que a estirpe selvagem, o que sugere que os produtos dos genes pduC, pduD, pduE, cobS e cbiA não são essenciais durante infecção por Salmonella Enteritidis nessa espécie.(AU)

Biology and External Morphology of the Immature Stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) in Anacardium occidentale L / Biologia e Morfologia Externa dos Estágios Imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) em Anacardium occidentale L

Abstract The genus Dirphia Hübner, [1819] presents Neotropical distribution. This genus, besides causing accidents of interest in public health, is a potential defoliator pest of cultivated plants, among them the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.), a crop of great economic importance. This study describes the biology, external morphology of the immature stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 including the first instar larva chaetotaxy. The egg stage had an average duration of 15 days, larval stage 45 days and pupa 60 days, totaling 120 days in average temperature of 28.8 °C and 59.5% relative humidity. Six instars were confirmed by the Dyar rule, with a growth rate of cephalic capsule K = 1.4 times per ínstar. The results found in the first ínstar chaetotaxy follow the general pattern known for Hemileucinae.

Resumo O gênero Dirphia Hübner, [1819] apresenta distribuição Neotropical. Esse gênero, além de causar acidentes de interesse na saúde pública, é uma potencial praga desfolhadora de plantas cultivadas, entre elas o cajueiro (Anacardium occidentale L.), cultura de grande importância econômica. Esse estudo descreve a biologia e morfologia externa dos estágios imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 incluindo a quetotaxia da larva de primeiro instar. O estágio de ovo teve duração média de 15 dias, estágio larval de 45 dias e pupa de 60 dias, totalizando 120 dias em temperatura média de 28,8 °C e 59,5% de umidade relativa. Seis ínstares foram confirmados pela regra de Dyar, com razão de crescimento da cápsula cefálica K = 1,4 vezes a cada ínstar. Os resultados encontrados na quetotaxia do primeiro instar segue o padrão geral conhecido para Hemileucinae.

Virginiamycin and sodium monensin supplementation for beef cattle on pasture / Suplementação com virginiamicina e monensina sódica para bovinos de corte a pasto

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the effects of including virginiamycin (VM), sodium monensin (MON) or the association (VM+MON) in the energetic mineral supplement, on the intake and performance of beef cattle on pasture. Forty Nellore heifers with 24 months of age and initial body weight (BW) of 251.5±16.6kg, were distributed in four treatments in a randomized block design. Treatments consisted of adding VM, MON or VM+MON to the supplement (CONT). Additive concentrations were defined to reach a dose of 40 to 45mg/100kg BW. The herbage allowance was not a limiting factor for the animals' intake. Supplement intake was lower than expected, with 33.0, 18.8 and 26.3mg per 100kg BW for VM, MON and VM+MON, respectively. Dry matter intake (DMI, mean=2.65% BW) and animal performance were not affected by the inclusion of additives. The average daily gain (ADG) was 0.561kg/animal day-1. The inclusion of additives in energetic mineral supplement does not affect the DMI and the ADG of grazing animals. The variability in supplement intake and daily dose intake of additives may have influenced the performance of the animals. Monensin inclusion presented the less expensive supplementation cost, due to reduction in supplement intake without changing weight gain.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da inclusão dos aditivos virginiamicina (VM), monensina sódica (MON) e associação (VM+MON) no suplemento energético-mineral sobre o consumo e desempenho de bovinos manejados em pastagem de Urochloa Brizantha cv. Marandu. Foram utilizadas 40 novilhas Nelore com 24 meses de idade e peso corporal (PC) inicial médio de 251,5+16,6kg distribuídas em delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos. Os tratamentos consistiam de suplemento energético-mineral (CONT) acrescido de VM, MON ou VM+MON. A oferta de forragem não limitou o consumo dos animais. O consumo dos aditivos foi de 0; 33,0; 18,8 e 26,3mg por 100kg de PC para CONT, VM, MON e VM+MON, respectivamente. O consumo de matéria seca e o desempenho dos animais não foram afetados pela inclusão dos aditivos. O ganho médio diário dos animais foi de 0,561kg dia -1 , sem diferença entre os tratamentos. A inclusão de aditivos no suplemento energético-mineral não alterou o CMS e o desempenho dos animais em pastejo. A variabilidade no consumo de suplemento e na dose ingerida dos aditivos pode ter influenciado o desempenho dos animais.(AU)

Saliva versus serum cortisol to identify subclinical hypercortisolism in adrenal incidentalomas: simplicity versus accuracy.

PURPOSE: Subclinical hypercortisolism (SCH) leads to metabolic derangements and increased cardiovascular risk. Cortisol autonomy is defined by the overnight 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST). Saliva cortisol is an easier, stress-free, and cost-effective alternative to serum cortisol. We compared 23 h and post-1 mg DST saliva with serum cortisol to identify SCH in adrenal incidentalomas (AI). METHODS: We analyzed 359 DST obtained retrospectively from 226 AI subjects (173F/53 M; 19-83 years) for saliva and serum cortisol. We used three post-DST serum cortisol cutoffs to uncover SCH: 1.8, 2.5, and 5.0 µg/dL. We determined post-DST and 23 h saliva cortisol cutoffs by ROC curve analysis and calculated their sensitivities (S) and specificities (E). RESULTS: The sensitive 1.8 µg/dL cutoff defined 137 SCH and 180 non-functioning adenomas (NFA): post-DST and 23 h saliva cortisol S/E were: 75.2%/74.4% and 59.5%/65.9%, respectively. Using the specific 5.0 µg/dL cortisol cutoff (22 SCH/295 NFA), post-DST and 23 h saliva cortisol S/E were 86.4%/83.4% and 66.7%/80.4%, respectively. Using the intermediate 2.5 µg/dL cutoff (89 SCH/228 NFA), post-DST and 23 h saliva cortisol S/E were 80.9%/68.9% and 65.5%/62.8%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Saliva cortisol showed acceptable performance only with the 5.0 µg/dL cortisol cutoff, as in overt Cushing's syndrome. Lower cutoffs (1.8 and 2.5 µg/dL) that identify larger samples of patients with poor metabolic outcomes are less accurate for screening. These results may be attributed to pre-analytical factors and inherent patient conditions. Thus, saliva cortisol cannot replace serum cortisol to identify SCH among patients with AI for screening DST.

Nonsyndromic cleft lip and palate, gastric cancer and tooth agenesis.

BACKGROUND: To determine the frequency of nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL/P) in first-degree relatives and to analyze the prevalence of tooth agenesis in patients with gastric cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional, observational, case-control study included 798 patients attended at hospital Santa Casa in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais and Alfa Institute of Gastroenterology of the Federal University of the Minas Gerais. Information on basic demographic data and tooth agenesis of both groups and their family history of NSCL/P in first-degree relatives were evaluated. The collected information was stored in a database and analyzed using statistical program SPSS version 21.0 and the values with p<0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Of the 798 patients, 113 (14.16%) consisted of the case group and 685 of the control group (85.84%). Non-Caucasian males were the most affected, although no differences among the groups were detected. Of all participants (n=798), 66 (8.27%) presented tooth agenesis and 25 (3.13%) presented oral cleft in first degree relative. CONCLUSIONS: Our results no found increase in the frequency of tooth agenesis in patients with gastric cancer and in the frequency of NSCL/P in the first-degree relatives of patients with gastric cancer.

Biology and External Morphology of the Immature Stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) in Anacardium occidentale L

Abstract The genus Dirphia Hübner, [1819] presents Neotropical distribution. This genus, besides causing accidents of interest in public health, is a potential defoliator pest of cultivated plants, among them the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.), a crop of great economic importance. This study describes the biology, external morphology of the immature stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 including the first instar larva chaetotaxy. The egg stage had an average duration of 15 days, larval stage 45 days and pupa 60 days, totaling 120 days in average temperature of 28.8 °C and 59.5% relative humidity. Six instars were confirmed by the Dyar rule, with a growth rate of cephalic capsule K = 1.4 times per ínstar. The results found in the first ínstar chaetotaxy follow the general pattern known for Hemileucinae.

Resumo O gênero Dirphia Hübner, [1819] apresenta distribuição Neotropical. Esse gênero, além de causar acidentes de interesse na saúde pública, é uma potencial praga desfolhadora de plantas cultivadas, entre elas o cajueiro (Anacardium occidentale L.), cultura de grande importância econômica. Esse estudo descreve a biologia e morfologia externa dos estágios imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 incluindo a quetotaxia da larva de primeiro instar. O estágio de ovo teve duração média de 15 dias, estágio larval de 45 dias e pupa de 60 dias, totalizando 120 dias em temperatura média de 28,8 °C e 59,5% de umidade relativa. Seis ínstares foram confirmados pela regra de Dyar, com razão de crescimento da cápsula cefálica K = 1,4 vezes a cada ínstar. Os resultados encontrados na quetotaxia do primeiro instar segue o padrão geral conhecido para Hemileucinae.

Association between depression severity and executive functioning in late-life depression: a systematic review / Associação entre a severidade dos sintomas depressivos e o funcionamento executivo de idosos com depressão: uma revisão sistemática

OBJECTIVE: Late-life depression is an under-diagnosed and under-treated disease that reduces the well-being of older adults. Executive dysfunction is another critical impairment in elderly depressed individuals which further disrupts their everyday functioning. This systematic review aims to analyze the association between executive function and depression severity in elderly individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder. METHOD: The studies were retrieved from MEDLINE/PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge and PsychInfo, after a search strategy combining the terms "depression", "executive function", "neuropsychological assessment", "elderly" and "late life". Study selection, data collection and quality ratings was performed by two independent raters. RESULTS: A total of 1,130 articles were found but only 8 studies met the defined eligibility criteria and evaluated the association between depression severity and executive functioning. Six out of 8 studies found an association between depression severity and executive function, with correlations ranging from small to large (r= -0.15 to -0.53). The included reports had several methodological limitations such as selective data reporting, non-comprehensive executive function assessment and not controlling potential biases. CONCLUSION: Depression severity may be more strongly correlated with a specific set of executive abilities although it also seems to be a broad-based association with executive functioning as a whole. Future high-quality prospective studies are recommended in order to understand the causal relationship between depression severity and executive functioning taking into account possible mediators such as age-related or neurodegenerative cognitive impairment, educational level and other clinic characteristics (e.g. age of onset, medication).

OBJETIVO: A depressão de início tardio é uma doença subdiagnosticada e subtratada que reduz o bem-estar da pessoa idosa. A disfunção executiva é outra alteração crítica em idosos deprimidos, perturbando ainda mais o seu funcionamento diário. Esta revisão sistemática tem como objetivo analisar a associação entre o funcionamento executivo e a severidade dos sintomas depressivos em idosos diagnosticados com transtorno depressivo major. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge e PsychInfo utilizando os termos "depression", "executive function", "neuropsychological assessment", "elderly" e "late life". A seleção, classificação dos estudos e coleta de dados foram realizadas por dois avaliadores independentes. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados 1130 artigos, mas apenas 8 estudos preencheram os critérios de elegebilidade. Três avaliaram a associação entre a severidade dos sintomas e o funcionamento executivo. Seis dos 8 estudos encontraram uma associação entre a severidade dos sintomas e o funcionamento executivo, com correlações de diversas magnitudes (r= -0,15 a -0,53). Os artigos incluídos apresentaram várias limitações metodológicas, tais como descrição seletiva de dados, avaliação não compreensiva do funcionamento executivo e falha no controlo de possíveis vieses. CONCLUSÃO: A severidade dos sintomas depressivos pode ser fortemente correlacionada com um conjunto específico de habilidades executivas, embora pareça também existir uma associação mais ampla com o funcionamento executivo como um todo. Recomenda-se a realização de estudos prospetivos com o fim de compreender a relação causal entre a severidade dos sintomas depressivos e o funcionamento executivo, tendo em conta possíveis mediadores tais como défices cognitivos associados ao envelhecimento ou outros processos neuro-degenerativos, nível de escolaridade e outras características clínicas (idade de início da doença, medicação).

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for schizophrenia: an overview on efficacy, recent trends and neurobiological findings / Terapia cognitivo-comportamental para esquizofrenia: uma revisão sobre eficácia, avanços recentes e achados neurobiológicos

OBJECTIVE: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been recommended by several international guidelines as the gold-standard treatment to address the needs of patients with schizophrenia. This review provides an overview on recent advances regarding CBT for schizophrenia. METHODS: An electronic search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science and Cochrane Database, using the key-words: "schizophrenia", "psychosis", "cognitive-behavioral therapy", "CBT" and "psychotherapy". RESULTS: Numerous systematic reviews support the immediate and long-term efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to reduce positive and negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. In the last decade, CBT for schizophrenia has been applied to clinical high-risk subjects and delivered using innovative approaches (low intensity, web-based and self-guided). Brain regions and networks which support high-level cognitive functions have been associated with CBT responsiveness. There is preliminary evidence indicating that CBT induces a prefrontal dependent increase in the top-down modulation of social threat activation. CONCLUSION: In the last decade, CBT for schizophrenia has explored new treatment outcomes, targeted acute and pre-clinical populations and provided alternative methods to reach more patients and reduce intervention costs. The patients' neurocognitive profile seems to play a critical role in treatment response and combining CBT with cognitive remediation may allow to enhance therapeutic effects. Although CBT for schizophrenia is widely established as a gold-standard practice, future studies using innovative CBT protocols, exploring brain-related predictors and treatment outcomes may allow this intervention to be more effective, personalized and to reach a wider number of patients.

INTRODUÇÃO: A terapia cognitivo-comportamental (TCC) tem sido recomendada em diversas guidelines internacionais como a intervenção psicoterapêutica padrão de ouro para pacientes com esquizofrenia. Esta revisão tem como objetivo fornecer uma visão global sobre os avanços recentes da TCC na esquizofrenia. MÉTODOS: Para esta revisão narrativa foi realizada uma busca eletrônica na PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science e Cochrane Database utilizando as palavras-chave: "schizophrenia", "psychosis", "cognitive-behavioral therapy", "CBT" e "psychotherapy". RESULTADOS: Várias revisões sistemáticas suportam a eficácia da TCC na redução a curto e longo prazo dos sintomas positivos e negativos da esquizofrenia. Na última década, a TCC tem sido aplicada a indivíduos com alto risco de psicose, sendo também exploradas abordagens inovadoras na sua utilização (curta duração, web-based, autogestão). Redes neurais responsáveis por funções cognitivas de nível superior têm sido associadas a respostas positivas após TCC para esquizofrenia. Existe ainda evidência preliminar que a TCC promove a ativação de zonas pré-frontais responsáveis pela modulação top-down face a ameaças sociais. CONCLUSÃO: Na última década, a TCC para esquizofrenia tem explorado novos desfechos, intervindo em populações agudas e pré-clínicas e utilizado métodos alternativos para alcançar mais pacientes e reduzir custos O perfil neurocognitivo dos pacientes aparenta ter um papel crítico na resposta ao tratamento, pelo que combinar a TCC com reabilitação cognitiva poderá potenciar os seus efeitos terapêuticos. Apesar da TCC ser uma prática recomendada para a esquizofrenia, estudos futuros usando protocolos inovadores e explorando preditores e desfechos relacionados com o cérebro poderão possibilitar que esta intervenção seja mais eficaz, personalizável e alcance o máximo número de pacientes possível.

Effects of dual-task interventions on gait performance of patients with Parkinson's Disease: A systematic review / Efeito da dupla tarefa na marcha em pacientes com doença de parkinson: uma revisão sistemática

OBJECTIVE: Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms that impair patients' gait performance, especially while performing dual/concurrent tasks. These deficits impair patients' daily function, because dual-tasking is a crucial ability in terms of everyday living. The aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of dual task interventions on gait performance of patients with Parkinson's disease. METHOD: Studies were retrieved from MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS and SciELO. We used the PICOS strategy to determine eligibility criteria. The search strategy included an advanced search on the included databases, using the following search query: "Parkinson's Disease" AND "Double Task" OR "Concurrent Tasks" OR "Gait" AND "Walk". Study selection was carried out by two independent researchers and a third one was called when consensus was needed. RESULTS: A total of 188 articles were identified: 169 articles from Medline/PubMed, 10 articles in SciELO, 8 articles in LILACS and 1 item from manual searches. A total of 56 articles were analyzed regarding the eligibility and exclusion criteria based on full text. A final total of 7 studies were included in the systematic review. CONCLUSION: The different types of dual-task interventions reported (dance, sound stimuli, visual and somatosensory) were associated to improvements in several gait performance indicators of Parkinson's disease patients, including gait speed, stride time and length, cadence and step length. External stimuli seem to play a critical role on specific training effects on dual-task gait performance.

OBJETIVO: A Doença de Parkinson é caracterizada por sintomas motores e não motores que prejudicam a marcha, especialmente durante a realização de tarefas duplas/simultâneas. Estes déficits afetam o funcionamento diário do paciente já que a realização de tarefas duplas é uma habilidade crucial para a vida normal.O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma Revisão Sistemática sobre os efeitos das tarefas duplas sobre a marcha em pacientes com Doença de Parkinson. MÉTODOS: Os estudos foram recuperados do MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO e Lilacs. Adotamos a estratégia PICOS para determinar os critérios de elegibilidade. A estratégia de busca foi realizada utilizando uma pesquisa avançada MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO e Lilacs com os seguintes termos adotados "Doença de Parkinson", "Dupla Tarefa", "Tarefas Concorrentes", "Marcha" e "Caminhada". Operadores booleanos AND e OR foram utilizados para combinação dos termos. A seleção dos estudos foi realizada por dois pesquisadores independentes que, em caso de desacordo, procuraram um consenso sobre a seleção. RESULTADOS: Foram identificados um total de 188 artigos:169 artigos do PubMed/Medline, 10 artigos no SciELO, 8 artigos no LILACS e 1 artigo em buscas manuais. Após uma seleção inicial, 56 artigos foram analisados pelos critérios de elegibilidade e os critérios de exclusão, sendo que um total de sete estudos foi incluído na revisão sistemática. CONCLUSÃO: De acordo com os estudos analisados nesta revisão, os diferentes tipos de intervenção incluídos (dança, estímulos sonoros, visuais e somato-sensoriais) permitem melhorias em vários indicadores de marcha tais como a velocidade, tempo da passada, cadência e comprimento do passo. A utilização de estímulos externos aparentam desempenhar um papel crítico nos efeitos espeíficos do treinamento na marcha em condições de dupla-tarefa.

Aerobic exercise reduces anxiety symptoms and improves fitness in patients with panic disorder / Exercícios aeróbicos reduziram os sintomas de ansiedade e melhoraram o desempenho cardiorrespiratório em portadores de transtorno de pânico

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of a regularly repeated aerobic exercise series on anxiety and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) in Panic Disorder patients. METHODS: Ten previously sedentary female subjects diagnosed with Panic Disorder performed 36 sessions of aerobic exercise (at 70 to 75% of VO2max), 3 times per week during 12 weeks. A cardiopulmonary evaluation (ergospirometry test) was used to set the intensity of training as well as to establish baseline and post-training VO2max parameters. The assessment of anxiety symptoms was performed at baseline, at the end of the 6th and 12th weeks, using the Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-T) and State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), and the Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) questionnaires. One-way ANOVA for repeated measurements (at 3 moments: Baseline, 6th week (mid-training) and 12th week (post-training) was used to compare the evolution of the questionnaires; the Bonferroni post hoc test was applied to identify differences between moments. A dependent t-test was performed for measures of VO2max. RESULTS: Compared to baseline, (a) STAI-T showed significant anxiety reductions at mid- and post-training moments; (b) STAI-S and SUDS recorded anxiety reductions only at Post-training; (c) VO2max showed a significant improvement at Post-training. CONCLUSION: This protocol promoted beneficial effects on cardiorespiratory fitness and anxiety levels of Panic Disorder patients.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os efeitos do exercício aeróbio praticado regularmente sobre a ansiedade e o VO2max em pacientes com transtorno de pânico. MÉTODO: Dez mulheres sedentárias diagnosticadas com transtorno de pânico (TP) realizaram 36 sessões de exercícios aeróbico contínuo (70 a 75% VO2max) em esteira, 3x por semana, durante 12 semanas. Uma avaliação cardiopulmonar (teste ergo-espirométrico) definiu a intensidade do treinamento, bem como estabeleceu valores de VO2max pré e pós-treinamento. A avaliação dos sintomas de ansiedade nos três momentos (controle, 6° e 12° semana), foi realizada utilizando os questionários IDATE-T (Inventário do Traço de Ansiedade), IDATE-S (Inventário do Estado de Ansiedade) e SUDS (Unidades Subjetivas da Escala de Aflição). O teste ANOVA One-way para medidas repetidas (momentos) foi usado para comparar os questionários. O teste Bonferroni post-hoc foi aplicado para identificar as diferenças entre os momentos. As medidas de VO2max foram analisadas através de um teste de "t" dependente. RESULTADOS: Os resultados mostraram redução do IDATE-T na 6° e 12° semanas de exercício; no entanto, o IDATE-S e o SUDS monstraram uma redução apenas na 12° semana. O VO2max apresentou melhora significativa após 12 semanas de intervenção em relação à linha de base. CONCLUSÃO: Conclui-se que o protocolo adotado foi capaz de promover efeitos benéficos sobre a aptidão cardiorrespiratória e sobre os níveis de ansiedade dos pacientes com transtorno de pânico.

Multi-technique hybrid imaging in PET/CT and PET/MR: what does the future hold?

Integrated positron-emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) is one of the most important imaging techniques to have emerged in oncological practice in the last decade. Hybrid imaging, in general, remains a rapidly growing field, not only in developing countries, but also in western industrialised healthcare systems. A great deal of technological development and research is focused on improving hybrid imaging technology further and introducing new techniques, e.g., integrated PET and magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI). Additionally, there are several new PET tracers on the horizon, which have the potential to broaden clinical applications in hybrid imaging for diagnosis as well as therapy. This article aims to highlight some of the major technical and clinical advances that are currently taking place in PET/CT and PET/MRI that will potentially maintain the position of hybrid techniques at the forefront of medical imaging technologies.

In vivo and in vitro phagocytosis of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis promastigotes by B-1 cells.

Leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania parasites that infect several cell types. The promastigote stage of Leishmania is internalized by phagocytic cells and transformed into the obligate intracellular amastigote form. B-1 cells are a subpopulation of B cells that are able to differentiate in vitro and in vivo into mononuclear phagocyte-like cells with phagocytic properties. B-1 cells use several receptors for phagocytosis, such as the mannose receptor and third complement receptor. Leishmania binds to the same receptors on macrophages. In this study, we demonstrated that phagocytes derived from B-1 cells (B-1 CDP) were able to internalize promastigotes of L. (L.) amazonensis in vitro. The internalized promastigotes differentiated into amastigotes. Our results showed that the phagocytic index was higher in B-1 CDP compared to peritoneal macrophages and bone marrow-derived macrophages. The in vivo phagocytic ability of B-1 cells was also demonstrated. Parasites were detected inside purified B-1 cells after intraperitoneal infection with L. (L.) amazonensis promastigotes. Intraperitoneal stimulation with the parasites led to an increase in both IL-10 and TNF-α. These results highlight the importance of studying B-1 CDP cells as phagocytic cells that can participate and contribute to immunity to parasites.

Taxa de fertilidade de novilhas de diferentes grupos genéticos com primeiro serviço aos 14 meses de idade / Fertility rate of heifers of different genetic groups with 1st service at 14 months of age

Foram avaliadas as taxas de reconcepção de 98 novilhas primíparas (34 Guzerá - G, 32, 1/2 Guzerá x 1/2 Nelore - GN e 32,1/2 Red Angus x 1/2 Nelore - AN) com 14 meses de idade e peso médio de aproximadamente 249,65kg, criadas em pastos de Brachiaria brizantha cv Marandu. Na segunda estação de monta (EM), foram utilizadas apenas as 36 primíparas gestantes na primeira EM (três G, nove GN e 24 AN), com média de idade de 26 meses e peso corporal de 313,67±25,01kg, 336,50±45,84kg e 399,86±44,45kg, respectivamente, para as fêmeas dos grupos G, GN e AN. O grupo AN apresentou ganho médio diário (GMD) de 0,30±0,06 (kg/dia) e maiores taxas (58,33) de reconcepção (P<0,05), comprovando que a heterose resultante do cruzamento entre raças distintas com maior distância genética (Bos taurus taurus x Bos taurus indicus) proporciona maior desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo.

A total of 98 heifers of three genetic groups: 34 Guzerá (G), 32, 1/2 Guzerá x 1/2 Nelore (GN) and 32 1/2 Red Angus x 1/2 Nelore (AN), 14 month old and average body weight of 249,65kg, raised in Brachiaria brizantha cv Marandu were used to evaluate reconception rates. In the second breeding season (BS), only those 36 pregnant in the first BS (three G, nine GN and 24 AN), age 26 months and body weight of 313.67±25.01kg, 336.50±45.84kg and 399.86±44.45kg, respectively, G , GN and AN were evaluated. The highest reconception rate (58.33%, P<0.05) was registered for the AN group and showed that average daily gain of 0.30±0.06kg, showing that crosses between Bos taurus taurus x Bos taurus indicus leads to higher reproductive and productive performances.