Lung Inflammasome Activation in SARS-CoV-2 Post-Mortem Biopsies.

The inflammasome complex is a key part of chronic diseases and acute infections, being responsible for cytokine release and cell death mechanism regulation. The SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterized by a dysregulated cytokine release. In this context, the inflammasome complex analysis within SARS-CoV-2 infection may prove beneficial to understand the disease's mechanisms. Post-mortem minimally invasive autopsies were performed in patients who died from COVID-19 (n = 24), and lung samples were compared to a patient control group (n = 11) and an Influenza A virus H1N1 subtype group from the 2009 pandemics (n = 10). Histological analysis was performed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed using monoclonal antibodies against targets: ACE2, TLR4, NF-κB, NLRP-3 (or NALP), IL-1ß, IL-18, ASC, CASP1, CASP9, GSDMD, NOX4, TNF-α. Data obtained from digital analysis underwent appropriate statistical tests. IHC analysis showed biomarkers that indicate inflammasome activation (ACE2; NF-κB; NOX4; ASC) were significantly increased in the COVID-19 group (p < 0.05 for all) and biomarkers that indicate cell pyroptosis and inflammasome derived cytokines such as IL-18 (p < 0.005) and CASP1 were greatly increased (p < 0.0001) even when compared to the H1N1 group. We propose that the SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis is connected to the inflammasome complex activation. Further studies are still warranted to elucidate the pathophysiology of the disease.

Isolated obesity resistance condition or associated with aerobic exercise training does not promote cardiac impairment

Mechanisms involved in cardiac function and calcium (Ca2+) handling in obese-resistant (OR) rats are still poorly determined. We tested the hypothesis that unsaturated high-fat diet (HFD) promotes myocardial dysfunction in OR rats, which it is related to Ca2+ handling. In addition, we questioned whether exercise training (ET) becomes a therapeutic strategy. Male Wistar rats (n=80) were randomized to standard or HFD diets for 20 weeks. The rats were redistributed for the absence or presence of ET and OR: control (C; n=12), control + ET (CET; n=14), obese-resistant (OR; n=9), and obese-resistant + ET (ORET; n=10). Trained rats were subjected to aerobic training protocol with progressive intensity (55-70% of the maximum running speed) and duration (15 to 60 min/day) for 12 weeks. Nutritional, metabolic, and cardiovascular parameters were determined. Cardiac function and Ca2+ handling tests were performed in isolated left ventricle (LV) papillary muscle. OR rats showed cardiac atrophy with reduced collagen levels, but there was myocardial dysfunction. ET was efficient in improving most parameters of body composition. However, the mechanical properties and Ca2+ handling from isolated papillary muscle were similar among groups. Aerobic ET does not promote morphological and cardiac functional adaptation under the condition of OR.

Feeding aspects of Knodus heteresthes (Eigenmann, 1908) and Moenkhausia lepidura (Kner, 1858) (Characiformes, Characidae) in the Teles Pires and Juruena Rivers, southern Amazon / Aspecto alimentar de Knodus heteresthes (Eigenmann, 1908) e Moenkhausia lepidura (Kner, 1858) (Characiformes, Characidae) nos rios Teles Pires e Juruena, sul da Amazônia

The composition of the diet of two species of characids (Knodus heteresthes and Moenkhausia lepidura) was evaluated in the Teles Pires and Juruena Rivers, sampled in September and October 2016. We analyzed 226 stomachs of K. heteresthes and 425 of M. lepidura. The analysis of the stomach contents was based on volumetric and frequency of occurrence methods, applying the food importance index. For the similarity of the diets between the species we calculated the niche overlap with Pianka's index. Both species in the Juruena River have a dietary preference for arthropods (IAi > 0.95). In the Teles Pires River the diet is concentrated in three sources for both species: arthropods (IAi > 0.52), vegetables (IAi > 0.33) and fish (IAi > 0.12). The diet was dissimilar when compared to environments (ANOSIM, R ≥ 0.57, p < 0.001) with high trophic niche overlap (α > 0.97), regardless of the sampled environment. In the Teles Pires River, both species were classified as omnivorous with an insectivorous tendency and in the Juruena River the insectivorous behaviour occurs.

Foram avaliadas a composição da dieta de duas espécies de Characideos (Knodus heteresthes e Moenkhausia lepidura) nos rios Teles Pires e Juruena, amostrados em setembro e outubro de 2016. Analisamos 226 estômagos de K. heteresthes e 425 de M. lepidura, sendo utilizados os métodos volumétrico e frequência de ocorrência, aplicando-se o índice de importância alimentar. Para a similaridade das dietas entre as espécies calculamos a sobreposição de nicho com índice de Pianka. Ambas as espécies no rio Juruena têm preferência alimentar por artrópodes (IAi > 0,95), no rio Teles Pires a dieta concentra-se em três fontes para ambas espécies: artrópodes (IAi > 0,52), vegetais (IAi > 0,33) e peixes (IAi > 0,12). A dieta é dissimilar quando comparados os ambientes (ANOSIM, R ≥ 0,57; p < 0,001), com alta sobreposição de nicho trófico (α > 0,97), independente do ambiente amostrado. No rio Teles Pires, ambas as espécies foram classificadas como onívoras com tendência insetívora e no rio Juruena ocorre o comportamento insetívoro.

Fighting COVID-19 / Combatendo a COVID-19

Abstract The current COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) poses a threat to global health owing to its high rate of spread and severe forms of respiratory infection. The lack of vaccines and antivirals prevents clinical strategies against the disease, creating an emerging need for the development of safe and effective treatments. Strategies for vaccine development include complete vaccines against viruses, subunits, and nucleic acids, but are still in their early stages. Studies carried out to date on possible SARS-CoV2 drug targets highlight glycoprotein S, Mpro (main protease or protease type 3C), and a member of the transmembrane serine protease II families (TMPRSS2). However, due to the pandemic state, priority is given to marketed drugs. These include chloroquine (CQ), hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), nitazoxanide, remdesivir, Lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV / r), in addition to treatment with convalescent plasma. But, therapeutic specific effects against SARS-CoV2 have not yet been verified. Most of the information obtained about treatment is based on preliminary and limited studies. We conclude that, at this time of emergency, the search for new therapies is more urgent due to the need to save lives. Thus, we point out as interesting targets for future more specific research: glycoprotein S, Mpro, and TMPRSS2.

Resumo A pandemia de COVID-19 causada pelo novo Coronavírus (SARS-CoV2) representa uma ameaça à saúde global devido à alta taxa de disseminação e formas graves de infecção respiratória. A falta de vacinas e antivirais específicos dificultam as estratégias clínicas de controle da doença, criando a necessidade urgente do desenvolvimento de tratamentos seguros e eficazes. Com relação as estratégias para o desenvolvimento de vacinas, incluem-se: aquelas com o vírus completo, subunidades e ácidos nucléicos, mas estas ainda estão em estágios iniciais. Já sobre os estudos realizados até o momento buscando novos alvos terapêuticos contra o SARS-CoV2, destacam a glicoproteína S; Mpro (principal protease ou protease tipo 3C) e um membro da família transmembrana serina protease II (TMPRSS2). No entanto, devido ao estado pandêmico, tem sido dada prioridade aos medicamentos comercializados. Estes incluem a cloroquina (CQ); hidroxicloroquina (HCQ); nitazoxanida; remdesivir; Lopinavir / ritonavir (LPV/r); além do tratamento com plasma de pacientes curados. Porém, ainda não há uma estratégia terapêutica contra o SARS-CoV2 totalmente eficaz, e a maioria das informações obtidas sobre o tratamento é baseada em estudos preliminares e limitados. Concluímos então que, neste momento de emergência, a busca por novas terapias é algo urgente devido à necessidade de salvar vidas. Assim finalizamos sugerindo como alvos interessantes para futuras pesquisas específicas: a glicoproteína S, Mpro e o TMPRSS2.

What Ibero-American hospitals do when things go wrong? A cross-sectional international study.

OBJECTIVE: To know what hospital managers and safety leaders in Ibero-American countries are doing to respond effectively to the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) with serious consequences for patients. DESIGN: Cross-sectional international study. SETTING: Public and private hospitals in Ibero-American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Portugal and Spain). PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample of hospital managers and safety leaders from eight Ibero-American countries. A minimum of 25 managers/leaders from each country were surveyed. INTERVENTIONS: A selection of 37 actions for the effective management of AEs was explored. These were related to the safety culture, existence of a crisis plan, communication and transparency processes with the patients and their families, attention to second victims and institutional communication. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Degree of implementation of the actions studied. RESULTS: A total of 190 managers/leaders from 126 (66.3%) public hospitals and 64 (33.7%) private hospitals participated. Reporting systems, in-depth analysis of incidents and non-punitive approaches were the most implemented interventions, while patient information and care for second victims after an AE were the least frequent interventions. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of these hospitals have not protocolized how to act after an AE. For this reason, it is urgent to develop and apply a strategic action plan to respond to this imperative safety challenge. This is the first study to identify areas of work and future research questions in Ibero-American countries.

BK Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy managed by screening policy in a real-life setting.

BACKGROUND: BK polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PyVAN) is an important complication after kidney transplantation. Prevalence ranges from 1% to 10%, and graft loss occurs in approximately 50% of the cases. There is no effective treatment, so early viral detection with immunosuppression tapering is the current strategy to prevent PyVAN. AIMS: To verify the frequency of PyVAN in a single center and evaluate the response to immunosuppressive adjustments through graft survival analysis. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of a cohort of kidney transplant recipients with biopsy-proven PyVAN, compared with no-PyVAN patients regarding clinical aspects, immunosuppression, and graft survival over at least 2 years. RESULTS: There were 1404 kidney transplants analyzed in the study period, 58 with biopsy-proven PyVAN. Cumulative incidence was 4.1%. Median time from transplantation to PyVAN diagnosis was 6 (1-41) months. PyVAN was associated with recipient male gender (P = .041) and deceased donation (P = .005). Graft survival was inferior for PyVAN compared to no-PyVAN patients, 81.8% vs 75.2%, P = .019. Thirteen (22.4%) PyVAN patients lost their grafts, nine (15.5%) losses attributed to BKPyV infection. Three patients with BKPyV-associated graft losses were submitted to a successful second kidney transplant, with no evidence of viral replication during follow-up. CONCLUSION: PyVAN still is an important cause of kidney graft failure. Even though implementing active vigilance and immunosuppressive adjustment, this real-life single-center study demonstrated inferior graft survival in PyVAN patients compared to non-PyVAN.

Treatment with zolpidem after ethanol administration potentiates the expression of ethanol-induced behavioral sensitization in mice

Contradictory findings suggest that the behavioral and abuse-related effects of ethanol are mediated by its action at α1 subunit-containing GABAA (α1GABAA) receptors. In the present study, we investigated the effects of a sub-chronic post-ethanol administration treatment with zolpidem, an α1-preferring positive allosteric modulator at GABAA receptors, on the subsequent expression of ethanol-induced behavioral sensitization in mice. Animals received ethanol (1.8 g/kg, ip) or saline treatments every other day for 15 days (8 treatment sessions) and were subsequently treated with zolpidem (0.5 mg/kg, ip) or vehicle 4 times on alternate days. At the end of the treatment phase, animals were challenged with saline or ethanol on separate days for the evaluation of the expression of conditioned locomotion and behavioral sensitization. Eight-day treatment with ethanol did not lead to the development of ethanol-induced behavioral sensitization. Animals treated with ethanol and subsequently administered vehicle showed similar locomotion frequencies during the last ethanol challenge compared to the control group receiving ethanol for the first time. Animals treated with ethanol and subsequently administered zolpidem expressed behavioral sensitization to ethanol during the ethanol challenge. The present study adds to the literature by providing further evidence of a role of α1GABAA receptors on the behavioral effects of ethanol. Because of the current highly prevalent co-abuse of ethanol and benzodiazepine drugs in humans, the use of zolpidem and other α1GABAA receptor ligands during ethanol withdrawal should be monitored carefully.

Características morfológicas do estômago de jaguatirica (Leopardus pardalis - Linnaeus, 1758) / Morphological characteristics of the stomach of the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis - Linnaeus, 1758)

Leopardus pardalis é uma das espécies de felinos neotropicais mais estudadas em seus aspectos ecológicos, porém informações de questões morfofisiológicas do trato digestório não são encontradas na literatura. Visando contribuir com tais informações, o objetivo deste artigo foi caracterizar a morfologia do estômago dessa espécie. Nesta pesquisa, foram utilizados cinco exemplares adultos, coletados após óbito por atropelamento ou doados pelo IBAMA ao Laboratório de Zoologia e Morfologia Animal da Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso - Alta Floresta. Os animais foram fixados com solução aquosa de formaldeído a 10%, dissecados por meio de técnicas anatômicas. Além dos estudos anatômicos, também foram coletados tecidos para microscopia. As análises macroscópicas revelaram que o estômago era do tipo unicavitário, com presença de pequena e grande curvatura, localizado no antímero esquerdo e constituído pelas regiões características do órgão. Em seus aspectos microscópicos, mostrou-se formado pelas quatro túnicas usuais do tubo digestório: túnica mucosa, submucosa, muscular e serosa, cada uma com as particularidades características de cada região, principalmente na túnica mucosa. O estômago de L. pardalis revelou uma morfologia semelhante às espécies domésticas e selvagens, com particularidades histomorfológicas na região pilórica. Esse padrão pode estar relacionado a adaptações evolutivas no processo digestivo dessa espécie.(AU)

The species Leopardus pardalis is one of the species of neotropical felines more studied in its ecological aspects, however, information of morphophysiological questions of the digestive tract are not found in the literature. Aiming to contribute with such information, the objective of this work was to characterize the morphology of the stomach of this species. Five adult specimens, collected after death by trampling, or donated by IBAMA to the Laboratory of Zoology and Animal Morphology of the University of the State of Mato Grosso - Alta Floresta, were used in this research. The animals were fixed with aqueous solution of formaldehyde 10%, dissected through the basic techniques and instruments of anatomy, and later the material was collected for microscopy. The macroscopic analysis revealed that the stomach was of the unicavitary type, with small and great curvature, located in the left antimer and constituted by the characteristic regions of the organ. In its microscopic aspects it was formed by the four usual tunics of the digestive tube: tunica mucosa, submucosa, muscular and serosa, each one with the peculiarities characteristic of each region, mainly in the tunica mucosa. The stomach of L. pardalis revealed similar morphology to the domestic and wild species, with small histomorphological peculiarities in the pyloric region, which may be related to evolutionary adaptations in the digestive process of this species.(AU)

Copper(II) complex-loaded castor oil-based nanostructured lipid carriers used against Mycobacterium tuberculosis : Development, characterisation, in vitro and in vivo biological assays.

A copper(II) complex-loaded castor oil-based nanostructured lipid carrier was evaluated to enhance the poor water solubility of antimicrobial compounds, improving their biological properties and antimicrobial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Nanostructured lipid carriers were composed of the castor oil, polyoxyethylene 40 stearate and caprylic/capric triglyceride, poloxamer 407, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and three different copper(II) complexes. The systems were ultrasonicated at an amplitude of 8% for 20 min and an ice bath was used throughout the procedure. The blank nanostructured lipid carrier (F5) and nanostructured lipid carriers loaded with copper(II) complex 1, 2 and 3 (F5.1, F5.2 and F5.3, respectively) for 45 days presented values of mean diameter, poly dispersity index and zeta potential ranging from 186 to 199 nm, 0.14 to 0.2 and 24 to 30 mV, respectively. Atomic force microscopy indicated that the nanostructured lipid carriers were distributed at the nanoscale, corroborating the mean diameter data. Differential scanning calorimetry determined the melting points of the constituents of the nanostructured lipid carriers. The antimicrobial activity of copper(II) complexloaded F5 against M. tuberculosis H37Rv showed better anti-tuberculosis activity than the free complexes. In vivo biological assays of complex-loaded F5 demonstrated reduced toxicity. Our results suggest that nanostructured lipid carriers could be a potential nanotechnological strategy to optimise tuberculosis treatment.

Cardiac function and intracellular Ca2+ handling proteins are not impaired by high-saturated-fat diet-induced obesity

Obesity is often associated with changes in cardiac function; however, the mechanisms responsible for functional abnormalities have not yet been fully clarified. Considering the lack of information regarding high-saturated-fat diet-induced obesity, heart function, and the proteins involved in myocardial calcium (Ca2+) handling, the aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that this dietary model of obesity leads to cardiac dysfunction resulting from alterations in the regulatory proteins of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. Male Wistar rats were distributed into two groups: control (C, n=18; standard diet) and obese (Ob, n=19; high-saturated-fat diet), which were fed for 33 weeks. Cardiac structure and function were evaluated using echocardiographic and isolated papillary muscle analyses. Myocardial protein expressions of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase, phospholamban (PLB), PLB serine-16 phosphorylation, PLB threonine-17 phosphorylation, ryanodine receptor, calsequestrin, Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, and L-type Ca2+ channel were assessed by western blot. Obese rats presented 104% increase in the adiposity index (C: 4.5±1.4 vs Ob: 9.2±1.5%) and obesity-related comorbidities compared to control rats. The left atrium diameter (C: 5.0±0.4 vs Ob: 5.5±0.5 mm) and posterior wall shortening velocity (C: 36.7±3.4 vs Ob: 41.8±3.8 mm/s) were higher in the obese group than in the control. The papillary muscle function was similar between the groups at baseline and after inotropic and lusitropic maneuvers. Obesity did not lead to changes in myocardial Ca2+ handling proteins expression. In conclusion, the hypothesis was not confirmed, since the high-saturated-fat diet-induced obese rats did not present cardiac dysfunction or impaired intracellular Ca2+ handling proteins.

¿Cómo es la calidad de vida reportada por los estudiantes de Medicina? / Quality of life scores among 411 medical students

Background: The high academic burden may hamper the quality of life of medical students. Aim: To evaluate the quality of life (QOL) for medical students attending a Chilean university. Material and Methods: Four hundred eleven medical students aged 22 ± 2 years (51% women), studying in Santiago, Chile, answered online a validated Spanish version of the WHOQOL-BREF quality of life survey (scored from 0 to 100). Overall scores were assessed for the questionnaire domains Physical health, Psychological health, Interpersonal relationships, and Environment. Results: The global scores were 65.1 for Physical health, 63.1 for Psychological health, 61.3 for Interpersonal relationships and 67.2 for Environment. Students in clinical practice, females, those with sedentary behaviors and consuming modafinil had lower Physical health scores. Students coming from outside Santiago, with sedentary behaviors and who consumed modafinil had poorer Psychological health scores. Students coming from outside Santiago, males and those with sedentary behaviors had Lower Interpersonal relationship scores. Environment scores were also lower among students who were sedentary or from outside Santiago. Conclusions: The variables that had a greater negative impact in the quality of life of these students were the transition from theoretical courses to clinical practice, being from outside Santiago, being overweight or obese and consuming modafinil. Students that were physically active had better quality of life scores.

Effect of Hepatic Preconditioning with the Use of Methylene Blue on the Liver of Wistar Rats Submitted to Ischemia and Reperfusion.

BACKGROUND: The liver may be injured in situations where it is submitted to ischemia, such as partial hepatectomy and liver transplantation. In all cases, ischemia is followed by reperfusion and, although it is essential for the reestablishment of tissue function, reperfusion may cause greater damage than ischemia, an injury characterized as ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) damage. The aim of this work was to analyze the effect of ischemic preconditioning with the use of methylene blue (MB; 15 mg/kg) 5 or 15 minutes before I/R (IRMB5' and IRMB15', respectively) on the hepatic injury occurring after I/R. METHODS: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were used, and liver samples submitted to partial ischemia (IR) or not (NI) were obtained from the same animal. The samples were divided into 7 groups. Data were analyzed statistically by means of the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and Wilcoxon Matched test, with the level of significance set at 5% (P < .05). RESULTS: The rate of oxygen consumption by state 3 mitochondria was inhibited in all ischemic groups compared with the sham group (SH vs IR: P = .0052; SH vs IRMB5': P = .0006; SH vs IRMB15': P = .0048), which did not occur in the nonischemic contralateral portion of the same liver (SH vs NI: P = .7652; SH vs NIMB5': P = .059; SH vs NIMB15': P = .3153). The inhibition of the rate of oxygen consumption by state 3 mitochondria was maintained in the presence of MB (IR vs IRMB5': P = .4563; IR vs IRMB15': P = .9021). The respiratory control ratio was reduced in all ischemic groups compared with the sham group, owing to the inhibition of oxygen consumption in state 3 (SH vs IR: P = .0151; SH vs IRMB5': P = .005; SH vs IRMB15': P = .0007). CONCLUSIONS: Methylene blue had no effect on the mitochondrial respiratory parameters studied, but was able to reduce lipid peroxidation, preventing the production of reactive oxygen species (SH vs IRMB15': P = .0210).

Low validity of predictive equations for calculating resting energy expenditure in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Predictive equations are the main clinical tools for determining resting energy expenditure (REE). However, their adequate use in overweight and obese individuals is unclear. Thus, we investigated the best predictive equations for estimating REE in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: Eleven analyses were performed with prediction equations (pREE) based on anthropometric parameters in 30 overweight or obese women with PCOS without other chronic diseases. The measured REE (mREE) was calculated by indirect calorimetry. The validity of the equations was investigated by comparison, accuracy and agreement tests between pREE and mREE at both the individual and group level. RESULTS: Four analyses were similar to those of mREE, and smallest mean differences were observed for the World Health Organization/Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/United Nations University (WHO/FAO/UNU) considering weight (W) [0.07 (1.13) MJ (16 [270] kcal)]. Individual accuracy was greater than 50% for Harris and Benedict, Müller and Lazzer equations. The percentage of REE underestimation ranged between 16.7% and 73.3%, whereas higher rates of overestimation were observed in the De Luis (66.7%) and Ireton-Jones (43.3%) equations. Mean bias at the group level was lowest in the WHO/FAO/UNU W and WHO/FAO/UNU considering weight and height (WH), Müller and Lazzer equations (-2.8 to 0.5). The WHO/FAO/UNU W and WHO/FAO/UNU WH formulas were optimal in individual agreement (33.3%). CONCLUSIONS: FAO/WHO/UNU W equations may estimate the REE in overweight and obese women with PCOS. However, the low individual accuracy and agreement in relation to mREE suggest caution regarding when to use the formula to perform an individual nutritional plan.

Determination of Soft Tissue Breakpoint Based on Its Temperature Enhancement Pattern: In Vivo and In Vitro Experiments.

The breakpoint of fresh commercial meats and in vivo mice has been assessed using tissue temperature enhancement pattern. A 1 cm length and 0.1 cm diameter gold rod was implanted in fresh chicken breast, beef, fish, and in vivo Mus musculus white mice and was insonated with ultrasound. The temperature enhancement of gold rods was measured with a needle type thermistor over a temperature range from 35 to 50 °C. From these results the breakpoints were determined by plotting the gold rod temperature versus ultrasound exposure duration using the interception point of two curves fitted by a linear regression equations of thermal response above and below 43 °C. The linear correlation coefficients for all fitted curves lie within 0.985 and 0.997. The breakpoints were found to be 42.1 ± 1.1, 42.3 ± 0.9, 42.6 ± 0.8 and 43.5 ± 0.6 for fish, chicken breast, beef and in vivo Mus musculus white mice, respectively. The interception of the thermal response curves above and below 43 °C. Soft tissue temperature enhancement pattern has demonstrated to be a fast method to determine breakpoint. It denotes the temperature where cells may start to be destroyed and may be used to spot the startup point in dosimetry of hyperthermia cancer therapy.

A Paris System-Based Implant Approach to Hyperthermia Cancer Tumor with Gold Seeds and Ultrasound.

A Paris system-based implant approach has been used to improve the bio-heat distribution from implanted gold rods in insonated tissues. Experiments with single-plane implants using parallel equidistant 1.018 ± 0.015 cm height and 0.136 ± 0.001 cm diameter 24-K gold rods) arranged in triangular and square shapes were performed in Mus musculus white mice (medial dorsal region). The mice were anesthetized and gold rods were implanted by means of a trocar needle and the implanted region was insonated with a 4-cm diameter transducer oscillating with a nominal frequency of 1 MHz and power of about 75 W. Intramuscular tissue temperature measurements were recorded using implantable needle type thermocouples affixed to a portable Fluke thermometer. Superficial tissue temperature profile was also measured with a FLIR infrared camera and thermographic analysis was performed using the ImageJ computer software. In both cases, the central implant planes have been assigned to that approximately bisects all the implanted rods. Measured with the needle type thermistor, for the triangular implant, the percentage deviation between the maximum and minimum temperature within the triangular plane was 5%. For a square shape, this percentage deviation was 6%. The thermographic analysis have shown a deviation of 3 and 5% for the triangular and square shapes, respectively. The Paris system-based implant approach for gold rods implanted in tissue and exposed to ultrasound may greatly improve the bio-heat propagation and sustain a constant temperature profile inside triangular and square patterns formed by gold rods implants. Additionally, the Paris system may minimize ablations areas and treatment length in hyperthermia if used in cancer tumor treatment with gold seeds and ultrasound.

Importance of SERCA2a on early isolated diastolic dysfunction induced by supravalvular aortic stenosis in rats.

Cardiac remodeling is defined as changes in shape and function of the heart in response to aggression (pressure overload). The sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase cardiac isoform 2a (SERCA2a) is a known factor that influences function. A wide spectrum of studies report a decrease in SERCA2a in heart failure, but none evaluate it's the role in early isolated diastolic dysfunction in supravalvular aortic stenosis (AoS). Our hypothesis was that SERCA2a participates in such dysfunction. Thirty-day-old male Wistar rats (60-80 g) were divided into AoS and Sham groups, which were submitted to surgery with or without aorta clipping, respectively. After 6 weeks, the animals were submitted to echocardiogram and functional analysis by isolated papillary muscle (IPM) in basal condition, hypoxia, and SERCA2a blockage with cyclopiazonic acid at calcium concentrations of 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 mM. Western-blot analyses were used for SERCA2a and phospholamban detection. Data analysis was carried out with Student's t-test and ANOVA. AoS enhanced left atrium and E and A wave ratio, with preserved ejection fraction. Basal condition in IPM showed similar increases in developed tension (DT) and resting tension (RT) in AoS, and hypoxia was similar between groups. After cyclopiazonic acid blockage, final DT was equally decreased and RT was similar between groups, but the speed of relaxation was decreased in the AoS group. Western-blot was uniform in all evaluations. The hypothesis was confirmed, since functional parameters regarding SERCA2a were changed in the AoS group.

Interference of age and supplementation of direct-fed microbial and essential oil in the activity of digestive enzymes and expression of genes related to transport and digestion of carbohydrates and proteins in the small intestine of broilers.

The objectives of this study were to describe alterations that age and dietary inclusion of direct-fed microbial (DFM) Bacillus subtilis (BS) and a specific essential oil (EO) blend (carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, cineol, and pepper extract) causes in the activity of digestive enzymes (maltase: MALT; aminopeptidase-N: APN; intestinal alkaline phosphate: IAP) and expression patterns of genes related to transport (oligopeptide transporter gene: SLC15A1; Na+-dependent glucose and galactose transporter gene: SLC5A1; Na+-independent glucose, galactose, and fructose transporter gene: SLC2A2; ATPase, Na+/K+ transporting gene: ATP1A1) and digestion (aminopeptidase-N gene: ANPEP; maltase-glucoamylase gene: MGAM; Sucrase-isomaltase gene: SI) of carbohydrates and proteins in the small intestine of broilers. Also, the objective was to analyze if growth performance of broilers is affected by supplementation (BS and EO blend). Day-old male broiler chicks (n = 1,320) were assigned to 5 treatments. Diets included a basal diet (BD) as a negative control (CON); experimental diets were BD + BS; BD + BS + EO; BD + EO; BD + antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) avilamycin was the positive control. Performance was evaluated between 1 to 42 d. Transcript abundance of transport-related genes and digestion-related genes were assayed by RT-qPCR and determined at d 7, 21, and 42. MALT-, APN-, and IAP-specific activities were determined at d 7, 21, and 42. Broilers fed BS had greater SLC15A1 mRNA abundance compared to CON, while EO and AGP were related to higher activities of IAP and APN. Analysis over time revealed higher abundance of MGAM, SLC2A2, SLC15A1, SLC5A1 and SI mRNA at d 42 when compared to d 7. Activity of IAP decreased after d 7 and activity of MALT increased with age. The current study suggests that age had effect over carbohydrate and protein transport and carbohydrate digestion. The supplementation of BS DFM hade evident effect over protein transport and that the use of EO in the diet enhanced the activities of carbohydrate and protein digestion, reflecting improvement in digestive and transport physiology of birds. Changes performed by BS DFM and EO did not favor performance.

Feeding aspects of Knodus heteresthes (Eigenmann, 1908) and Moenkhausia lepidura (Kner, 1858) (Characiformes, Characidae) in the Teles Pires and Juruena Rivers, southern Amazon

Abstract The composition of the diet of two species of characids (Knodus heteresthes and Moenkhausia lepidura) was evaluated in the Teles Pires and Juruena Rivers, sampled in September and October 2016. We analyzed 226 stomachs of K. heteresthes and 425 of M. lepidura. The analysis of the stomach contents was based on volumetric and frequency of occurrence methods, applying the food importance index. For the similarity of the diets between the species we calculated the niche overlap with Piankas index. Both species in the Juruena River have a dietary preference for arthropods (IAi > 0.95). In the Teles Pires River the diet is concentrated in three sources for both species: arthropods (IAi > 0.52), vegetables (IAi > 0.33) and fish (IAi > 0.12). The diet was dissimilar when compared to environments (ANOSIM, R 0.57, p 0.001) with high trophic niche overlap ( > 0.97), regardless of the sampled environment. In the Teles Pires River, both species were classified as omnivorous with an insectivorous tendency and in the Juruena River the insectivorous behaviour occurs.

Resumo Foram avaliadas a composição da dieta de duas espécies de Characideos (Knodus heteresthes e Moenkhausia lepidura) nos rios Teles Pires e Juruena, amostrados em setembro e outubro de 2016. Analisamos 226 estômagos de K. heteresthes e 425 de M. lepidura, sendo utilizados os métodos volumétrico e frequência de ocorrência, aplicando-se o índice de importância alimentar. Para a similaridade das dietas entre as espécies calculamos a sobreposição de nicho com índice de Pianka. Ambas as espécies no rio Juruena têm preferência alimentar por artrópodes (IAi > 0,95), no rio Teles Pires a dieta concentra-se em três fontes para ambas espécies: artrópodes (IAi > 0,52), vegetais (IAi > 0,33) e peixes (IAi > 0,12). A dieta é dissimilar quando comparados os ambientes (ANOSIM, R 0,57; p 0,001), com alta sobreposição de nicho trófico ( > 0,97), independente do ambiente amostrado. No rio Teles Pires, ambas as espécies foram classificadas como onívoras com tendência insetívora e no rio Juruena ocorre o comportamento insetívoro.

Fighting COVID-19

Abstract The current COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) poses a threat to global health owing to its high rate of spread and severe forms of respiratory infection. The lack of vaccines and antivirals prevents clinical strategies against the disease, creating an emerging need for the development of safe and effective treatments. Strategies for vaccine development include complete vaccines against viruses, subunits, and nucleic acids, but are still in their early stages. Studies carried out to date on possible SARS-CoV2 drug targets highlight glycoprotein S, Mpro (main protease or protease type 3C), and a member of the transmembrane serine protease II families (TMPRSS2). However, due to the pandemic state, priority is given to marketed drugs. These include chloroquine (CQ), hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), nitazoxanide, remdesivir, Lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV / r), in addition to treatment with convalescent plasma. But, therapeutic specific effects against SARS-CoV2 have not yet been verified. Most of the information obtained about treatment is based on preliminary and limited studies. We conclude that, at this time of emergency, the search for new therapies is more urgent due to the need to save lives. Thus, we point out as interesting targets for future more specific research: glycoprotein S, Mpro, and TMPRSS2.

Resumo A pandemia de COVID-19 causada pelo novo Coronavírus (SARS-CoV2) representa uma ameaça à saúde global devido à alta taxa de disseminação e formas graves de infecção respiratória. A falta de vacinas e antivirais específicos dificultam as estratégias clínicas de controle da doença, criando a necessidade urgente do desenvolvimento de tratamentos seguros e eficazes. Com relação as estratégias para o desenvolvimento de vacinas, incluem-se: aquelas com o vírus completo, subunidades e ácidos nucléicos, mas estas ainda estão em estágios iniciais. Já sobre os estudos realizados até o momento buscando novos alvos terapêuticos contra o SARS-CoV2, destacam a glicoproteína S; Mpro (principal protease ou protease tipo 3C) e um membro da família transmembrana serina protease II (TMPRSS2). No entanto, devido ao estado pandêmico, tem sido dada prioridade aos medicamentos comercializados. Estes incluem a cloroquina (CQ); hidroxicloroquina (HCQ); nitazoxanida; remdesivir; Lopinavir / ritonavir (LPV/r); além do tratamento com plasma de pacientes curados. Porém, ainda não há uma estratégia terapêutica contra o SARS-CoV2 totalmente eficaz, e a maioria das informações obtidas sobre o tratamento é baseada em estudos preliminares e limitados. Concluímos então que, neste momento de emergência, a busca por novas terapias é algo urgente devido à necessidade de salvar vidas. Assim finalizamos sugerindo como alvos interessantes para futuras pesquisas específicas: a glicoproteína S, Mpro e o TMPRSS2.

Transición de pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica / Transition of patients with chronic kidney disease

Existe actualmente un creciente interés en los problemas asociados a la transición desde la atención de los adolescentes y jóvenes con enfermedad renal crónica en centros pediátricos a los de adultos. Los pacientes y ambos equipos experimentan diferentes visiones y sensaciones de insatisfacción. Aún falta mucho para que el proceso sea exitoso por las características distintivas de este grupo y sus propias historias personales. El objetivo de este trabajo es mediante una herramienta objetiva, determinar cuál de las competencias deseables de obtener para lograr una adecuada transición de la atención pediátrica a la del adulto es la menos desarrollada en los pacientes con enfermedad renal. Se encontró que el manejo de la propia vida es el ítem menos logrado, sobre todo en los varones adolescentes. Concluimos que fortalecer la autonomía de estos adolescentes y jóvenes debe ser un objetivo a trabajar por todo el equipo de salud para puedan completar este proceso transicional exitosamente (AU)

Currently there is a growing interest in problems associated with transition of care from pediatric to adult centers of adolescents and young adults with chronic kidney disease. The patients and both teams have different views and feelings of frustration. Much is still lacking for the process to become successful due to the typical features of this group of patients and their personal histories. The aim of this study was to determine through an objective tool the necessary skills to achieve an adequate transition from pediatric to adult care that have not been developed in patients with kidney disease. It was found that control over their own life was the item that was less achieved, particularly in adolescent boys. We conclude that strengthening the autonomy of these adolescents and young adults should be an aim of the whole health team for the successful transition of these patients (AU)