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.

Patients hospitalized with active tuberculosis and Covid-19 coinfection: A matched case-control from the Brazilian Covid-19 Registry.

Although control of Covid-19 has improved, the virus continues to cause infections, such as tuberculosis, that is still endemic in many countries, representing a scenario of coinfection. To compare Covid-19 clinical manifestations and outcomes between patients with active tuberculosis infection and matched controls. This is a matched case-control study based on data from the Brazilian Covid-19 Registry, in hospitalized patients aged 18 or over with laboratory confirmed Covid-19 from March 1, 2020, to March 31, 2022. Cases were patients with tuberculosis and controls were Covid-19 patients without tuberculosis. From 13,636 Covid-19, 36 also had active tuberculosis (0.0026%). Pulmonary fibrosis (5.6% vs 0.0%), illicit drug abuse (30.6% vs 3.0%), alcoholism (33.3% vs 11.9%) and smoking (50.0% vs 9.7%) were more common among patients with tuberculosis. They also had a higher frequency of nausea and vomiting (25.0% vs 10.4%). There were no significant differences in in-hospital mortality, mechanical ventilation, need for dialysis and ICU stay. Patients with TB infection presented a higher frequency of pulmonary fibrosis, abuse of illicit drugs, alcoholism, current smoking, symptoms of nausea and vomiting. The outcomes were similar between them.

Randomized comparison of oblique and perpendicular stabilizers for minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum.

OBJECTIVES: Bar dislocation is one of the most feared complications of the minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum. METHODS: Prospective randomized parallel-group clinical trial intending to assess whether oblique stabilizers can reduce bar displacement in comparison with regular stabilizers used in minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum. Additionally, we evaluated pain, quality of life and other postoperative complications. Participants were randomly assigned to surgery with perpendicular (n = 16) or oblique stabilizers (n = 14) between October 2017 and September 2018 and followed for 3 years. Bar displacements were evaluated with the bar displacement index. Pain scores were evaluated through visual analogue scale and quality of life through the Pectus Excavatum Evaluation Questionnaire. RESULTS: Control group average displacement index was 17.7 (±26.7) and intervention group average displacement index was 8.2 (±10.9). There was 1 reoperation in each group that required correction with 2 bars. Bar displacement was similar among groups (P = 0.12). No other complications were recorded. There was no statistically significant difference on pain score. There was a significant difference between pre- and postoperative composite scores of the participants' body image domain and psycho-social aspects in both groups. The difference between the pre- and postoperative participants' perception of physical difficulties was greater and statistically significant in the intervention group. CONCLUSIONS: There was no statistical difference in the use of perpendicular or oblique stabilizers, but the availability of different models of stabilizers during the study suggested that this can be advantageous. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03087734.

Organohalogen compounds in a hotspot for chemical pollution: Assessment in free-ranging Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis).

The assessment of chemical pollution in free-ranging living mammals is viable using remote biopsies and portrays a comprehensive scenario of environmental health. The Southwestern Atlantic Ocean holds incredible biodiversity, but it is under the constant and invisible threat of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) of anthropogenic origin, such as pesticides, brominated flame retardants, and industrial-use compounds (e.g., PCBs). Thus, this study aimed to assess the bioaccumulation of POPs (PCBs, DDTs, HCB, mirex and PBDEs) and natural organobromine compounds (MeO-BDEs) using gas-chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry in biopsy samples of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis, n = 20) that inhabit and forage both inside and in adjacent areas to degraded (Guanabara Bay) and conserved (Ilha Grande Bay) coastal bays in the Southeastern Brazil. Among the studied compounds, PCBs were predominant in the contamination profile with median concentration of 97.0 µg.g-1 lipid weight (lw), followed by the sum of the p,p' isomers of DDT, DDD, and DDE of 11.0 µg.g-1 lw, the brominated flame retardants PBDEs of 1.6 µg.g-1 lw, and the other organochlorine pesticides mirex of 0.78 µg.g-1 lw, and HCB of 0.049 µg.g-1 lw. The MeO-BDEs were detected with a median concentration of 22.8 µg.g-1 lw. 85 % of the Atlantic spotted dolphins analyzed in this study presented PCB concentration that exceeded even the less conservative threshold limits for adverse health effects (41 µg.g-1 lw). This study shows that despite the conservation status of preserved bays, cetacean species foraging in these locations are still under increased threat. Hence chemical pollution demands local and global efforts to be mitigated.

Self-assembled peptide P11-4 interacts with the type I collagen C-terminal telopeptide domain and calcium ions.

OBJECTIVES: Evaluate molecularly the role of P11-4 self-assembly peptide in dentin remineralization and its interaction with collagen I. METHODS: The calcium-responsive P11-4 peptide was analyzed by intrinsic fluorescence emission spectrum, circular dichroism spectrum (CD), and atomic force microscope (AFM). Differential light scattering was used to monitor the nucleation growth rate of calcium phosphate nanocrystals in the absence or in the presence of P11-4. AFM was used to analyze the radial size (nm) of calcium phosphate nanocrystals formed in the absence or in the presence of P11-4, as well as to verify the spatial structure of P11-4 in the absence or in the presence of Ca2+. RESULTS: The interaction of Ca2+ with the P11-4 (KD = 0.58 ± 0.06 mM) promotes the formation of ß-sheet antiparallel structure, leads to its precipitation in saturated solutions of Ca/P = 1.67 and induces the formation of parallel large fibrils (0.6 - 1.5 µm). P11-4 organized the HAP nucleation by reducing both the growth rate and size variability of nanocrystals, analyzed by the F test (p < 0.0001, N = 30). P11-4 interacts (KD = 0.75 ± 0.06 µM) with the KGHRGFSGL motif present at the C-terminal collagen telopeptide domain. P11-4 also increased the amount of HAP and collagen in the MDPC-23 cells. SIGNIFICANCE: The presented data propose a mechanism that will help future clinical and/or basic research to better understand a molecule able to inhibit structural collagen loss and help the impaired tissue to remineralize.

Ozone gas therapy for tooth bleaching preserves enamel microhardness, roughness and surface micromor.

After ozone therapy for bleaching, it is important to evaluate enamel surface properties, to ensure that bleaching provides adequate conditions for sound dental substrate. Aim: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of a bleaching treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), with or without ozone (O), on the microhardness, roughness and micromorphology of the enamel surface. Materials and Method: Bovine enamel blocks were planed and distributed among the following three bleaching treatment groups (n=10): CP - 1 hour per day/14 days (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions (Medplus V Philozon, 60 mcg/mL and oxygen flow rate of 1 L/min); and OCP - CP with O, 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions. Enamel surface microhardness (Knoop), roughness (Ra), and micromorphology by scanning electron microscopy (5,000x magnification) were determined before and after the treatments. Results: ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer's test showed that enamel microhardness remained unchanged by treatment with O and OCP (p=0.0087), but decreased by treatment with CP. Treatment with O promoted higher enamel microhardness than the other groups (p=0.0169). Generalized linear mixed models for repeated measures over time indicated treatment with CP increased enamel roughness more than OCP or O (p=0.0003). CP produced slight irregularities in enamel micromorphology after the whitening treatment. O, with or without CP, maintained the mechanical and physical properties of microhardness and enamel surface micromorphology, and either maintained or reduced surface roughness, compared to the conventional tray-delivered CP bleaching treatment. Conclusions: Treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide in trays promoted greater changes in enamel surface properties than treatments with ozone and with 10% ozonized carbamide peroxide in the office.

É importante avaliar as propriedades da superfície do esmalte após a aplicação da ozonioterapia para clareamento, para garantir que o efeito clareador proporcione condições adequadas para um substrato dentário hígido. ultório. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo in vitro foi avaliar os efeitos de um tratamento clareador com peróxido de carbamida (PC) a 10%, associado ou não ao ozônio (O), na microdureza, rugosidade e micromorfologia da superfície do esmalte. Materiais e Método: Blocos de esmalte bovino foram aplainados e distribuídos entre três grupos de tratamento clareador (n=10): PC - 1 hora por dia/14 dias (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessões (Medplus V Philozon, 60 mcg/mL e fluxo de oxigênio de 1 L/min); e PCO - CP com O, 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessões. A microdureza (Knoop), a rugosidade (Ra) e a micromorfologia da superfície do esmalte avaliada por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (aumento de 5.000x) foram analisadas antes e após os tratamentos. Resultados: ANOVA e teste de Tukey-Kramer mostraram que O e PCO mantiveram os valores de microdureza do esmalte ao final do tratamento (p=0,0087), enquanto PC promoveu diminuição da microdureza. O promoveu maiores valores de microdureza do esmalte do que os outros grupos ao final do tratamento (p=0,0169). Modelos lineares generalizados mistos para medidas repetidas no tempo indicaram um aumento na rugosidade da superfície para PC, levando a maior rugosidade do esmalte ao final do tratamento, em comparação com PCO ou O (p=0,0003). PC apresentou pequenas irregularidades na micromorfologia do esmalte após o tratamento clareador. O, com ou sem PC, manteve as propriedades mecânicas e físicas de microdureza e micromorfologia da superfície do esmalte, e manteve ou reduziu a rugosidade da superfície, em comparação com o tratamento clareador a base de PC aplicado em moldeira convencional. Conclusões: O tratamento com peróxido de carbamida a 10% para uso em moldeiras promoveu maiores alterações nas propriedades de superfície do esmalte do que aquelas observadas nos tratamentos com ozônio e com peróxido de carbamida ozonizado a 10% para uso em consultório.

High Incidence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Children with Community-Acquired Pneumonia from a City in the Brazilian Pre-Amazon Region.

INTRODUCTION: Although fewer children have been affected by the severe form of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) continues to be the leading global cause of child hospitalizations and deaths. AIM: This study investigated the incidence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as well its subtypes (RSV A and B), adenovirus (ADV), rhinovirus (HRV), metapneumovirus (HMPV), coronavirus (NL63, OC43, 229E and HKU1), parainfluenza virus subtypes (PI1, PI2 and PI3), bocavirus and influenza A and B viruses (FluA and FluB) in children diagnosed with CAP during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A total of 200 children with clinically confirmed CAP were initially recruited, of whom 107 had negative qPCR results for SARS-CoV-2 and were included in this study. Viral subtypes were identified using a real-time polymerase chain reaction in the nasopharyngeal swab samples. RESULTS: Viruses were identified in 69.2% of the patients. RSV infections were the most frequently identified (65.4%), with type RSV B being the most prevalent (63.5%). In addition, HCoV 229E and HRV were detected in 6.5% and 3.7% of the patients, respectively. RSV type B was associated with severe acute respiratory infection (ARI) and a younger age (less than 24 months). CONCLUSIONS: New strategies for preventing and treating viral respiratory infections, particularly RSV infections, are necessary.

Molecular characterization of Brazilian FeLV strains in São Luis, Maranhão Brazil.

The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) belongs to the Retroviridae family and Gammaretrovirus genus, and causes a variety of neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases in domestic cats (Felis catus), such as thymic and multicentric lymphomas, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, aplastic anemia, and immunodeficiency. The aim of the present study was to carry out the molecular characterization of FeLV-positive samples and determine the circulating viral subtype in the city of São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, as well as identify its phylogenetic relationship and genetic diversity. The FIV Ac/FeLV Ag Test Kit (Alere™) and the commercial immunoenzymatic assay kit (Alere™) were used to detect the positive samples, which were subsequently confirmed by ELISA (ELISA - SNAP® Combo FeLV/FIV). To confirm the presence of proviral DNA, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to amplify the target fragments of 450, 235, and 166 bp of the FeLV gag gene. For the detection of FeLV subtypes, nested PCR was performed for FeLV-A, B, and C, with amplification of 2350-, 1072-, 866-, and 1755-bp fragments for the FeLV env gene. The results obtained by nested PCR showed that the four positive samples amplified the A and B subtypes. The C subtype was not amplified. There was an AB combination but no ABC combination. Phylogenetic analysis revealed similarities (78% bootstrap) between the subtype circulating in Brazil and FeLV-AB and with the subtypes of Eastern Asia (Japan) and Southeast Asia (Malaysia), demonstrating that this subtype possesses high genetic variability and a differentiated genotype.

Ozone gas therapy for tooth bleaching preserves enamel microhardness, roughness and surface micromorphology / Ozonioterapia gasosa para clareamento dental preserva a microdureza, rugosidade e micromorfologia superficial do esmalte

ABSTRACT After ozone therapy for bleaching, it is important to evalúate enamel surface properties, to ensure that bleaching provides adequate conditions for sound dental substrate. Aim: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of a bleaching treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), with or without ozone (O), on the microhardness, roughness and micromorphology of the enamel surface. Materials and Method: Bovine enamel blocks were planed and distributed among the following three bleaching treatment groups (n=10): CP - 1 hour per day/14 days (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions (Medplus VPhilozon, 60 mcg/mL and oxygen flow rate of 1 L/min); and OCP - CP with O, 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions. Enamel surface microhardness (Knoop), roughness (Ra), and micromorphology by scanning electron microscopy (5,000x magnificaron) were determined before and after the treatments. Results: ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer's test showed that enamel microhardness remained unchanged by treatment with O and OCP (p=0.0087), but decreased by treatment with CP. Treatment with O promoted higher enamel microhardness than the other groups (p=0.0169). Generalized linear mixed models for repeated measures over time indicated treatment with CP increased enamel roughness more than OCP or O (p=0.0003). CP produced slight irregularities in enamel micromorphology after the whitening treatment. O, with or without CP, maintained the mechanical and physical properties of microhardness and enamel surface micromorphology, and either maintained or reduced surface roughness, compared to the conventional tray-delivered CP bleaching treatment. Conclusions: Treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide in trays promoted greater changes in enamel surface properties than treatments with ozone and with 10% ozonized carbamide peroxide in the office.

RESUMO É importante avaliar as propriedades da superficie do esmalte após a aplicagao da ozonioterapia para clareamento, para garantir que o efeito clareadorproporcione condigoes adequadaspara um substrato dentário higido. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo in vitro foi avaliar os efeitos de um tratamento clareador com peróxido de carbamida (PC) a 10%, associado ou nao ao ozonio (O), na microdureza, rugosidade e micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte. Materials e Método: Blocos de esmalte bovino foram aplainados e distribuidos entre tres grupos de tratamento clareador (n=10): PC - 1 hora por dia/14 dias (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessoes (Medplus VPhilozon, 60 mcg/mL e fluxo de oxigenio de 1 L/min); e PCO - CP com O, 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessoes. A microdureza (Knoop), a rugosidade (Ra) e a micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte avaliada por microscopia eletronica de varredura (aumento de 5.000x) foram analisadas antes e após os tratamentos. Resultados: ANOVA e teste de Tukey-Kramer mostraram que O e PCO mantiveram os valores de microdureza do esmalte ao final do tratamento (p=0,0087), enquanto PC promoveu diminuigao da microdureza. O promoveu maiores valores de microdureza do esmalte do que os outros grupos ao final do tratamento (p=0,0169). Modelos lineares generalizados mistos para medidas repetidas no tempo indicaram um aumento na rugosidade da superficie para PC, levando a maior rugosidade do esmalte ao final do tratamento, em comparagao com PCO ou O (p=0,0003). PC apresentou pequenas irregularidades na micromorfologia do esmalte após o tratamento clareador. O, com ou sem PC, manteve as propriedades mecánicas e fisicas de microdureza e micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte, e manteve ou reduziu a rugosidade da superficie, em comparagao com o tratamento clareador a base de PC aplicado em moldeira convencional. Conclusoes: O tratamento com peróxido de carbamida a 10% para uso em moldeiras promoveu maiores alteragoes nas propriedades de superficie do esmalte do que aquelas observadas nos tratamentos com ozonio e com peróxido de carbamida ozonizado a 10% para uso em consultório.

Pharmacological Modulation by Low Molecular Weight Heparin of Purinergic Signaling in Cardiac Cells Prevents Arrhythmia and Lethality Induced by Myocardial Infarction.

BACKGROUND: Although several studies suggest that heparins prevent arrhythmias caused by acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear. To investigate the involvement of pharmacological modulation of adenosine (ADO) signaling in cardiac cells by a low-molecular weight heparin (enoxaparin; ENOX) used in AMI therapy, the effects of ENOX on the incidences of ventricular arrhythmias (VA), atrioventricular block (AVB), and lethality (LET) induced by cardiac ischemia and reperfusion (CIR) were evaluated, with or without ADO signaling blockers. METHODS: To induce CIR, adult male Wistar rats were anesthetized and subjected to CIR. Electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis was used to evaluate CIR-induced VA, AVB, and LET incidence, after treatment with ENOX. ENOX effects were evaluated in the absence or presence of an ADO A1-receptor antagonist (DPCPX) and/or an inhibitor of ABC transporter-mediated cAMP efflux (probenecid, PROB). RESULTS: VA incidence was similar between ENOX-treated (66%) and control rats (83%), but AVB (from 83% to 33%) and LET (from 75% to 25%) incidences were significantly lower in rats treated with ENOX. These cardioprotective effects were blocked by either PROB or DPCPX. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that ENOX was effective in preventing severe and lethal arrhythmias induced by CIR due to pharmacological modulation of ADO signaling in cardiac cells, suggesting that this cardioprotective strategy could be promising in AMI therapy.

Immunological mechanisms involved in macrophage activation and polarization in schistosomiasis.

Human schistosomiasis is caused by helminths of the genus Schistosoma. Macrophages play a crucial role in the immune regulation of this disease. These cells acquire different phenotypes depending on the type of stimulus they receive. M1 macrophages can be 'classically activated' and can display a proinflammatory phenotype. M2 or 'alternatively activated' macrophages are considered anti-inflammatory cells. Despite the relevance of macrophages in controlling infections, the role of the functional types of these cells in schistosomiasis is unclear. This review highlights different molecules and/or macrophage activation and polarization pathways during Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum infection. This review is based on original and review articles obtained through searches in major databases, including Scopus, Google Scholar, ACS, PubMed, Wiley, Scielo, Web of Science, LILACS and ScienceDirect. Our findings emphasize the importance of S. mansoni and S. japonicum antigens in macrophage polarization, as they exert immunomodulatory effects in different stages of the disease and are therefore important as therapeutic targets for schistosomiasis and in vaccine development. A combination of different antigens can provide greater protection, as it possibly stimulates an adequate immune response for an M1 or M2 profile and leads to host resistance; however, this warrants in vitro and in vivo studies.

Influence of different working lengths on the shaping ability of Reciproc Blue in the apical third and apical foramen: a micro-computed tomographic study

Aim: This study aimed to assess the shaping ability of Reciproc Blue in the apical third and apical foramen of moderately curved canals at different working lengths (WLs), by micro-computed tomography. Methods: Thirty-six mesial roots (mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals) were included, each with 2 separate root canals and independent apical foramina, according to type IV of Vertucci's classification of first and second mandibular molars. The canals were instrumented at three different WLs: G-1, 1mm short of the major apical foramen; G0, at the major apical foramen; G+1, 1mm beyond the major apical foramen. The groups were assessed for changes in root canal volume and untouched wall area in the apical third. Groups G0 and G+1 were also compared for percentage of untouched walls at the apical foramen. One-way ANOVA (post hoc Tukey test) and Student's t-test adopted a 5% level of significance. Results: Root canal volumes (mm3) in the apical third were 22.86±10.46, 44.48±24.91, and 55.71±21.32 in G-1, G0 and G+1, respectively. G-1 volume following instrumentation increased significantly less than that of G0 or G+1 (P>.05); G0 did not differ from G+1. The percentage of untouched wall area in the apical third did not differ among the three groups (P>.05). G0 and G+1 did not differ regarding untouched walls in the major apical foramem walls. Conclusion: Extending the WL from 1mm short of the apical foramen to a point at and beyond the WL increases the apical third volume without increasing the prepared area. Untouched surface areas of the apical foramen were not modified by instrumentation at or beyond the foramen

Praziquantel: An update on the mechanism of its action against schistosomiasis and new therapeutic perspectives.

Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for the treatment of all forms of schistosomiasis, although its mechanisms of action are not completely understood. PZQ acts largely on adult worms. This narrative literature review describes what is known about the mechanisms of action of PZQ against schistosomes from in vitro and in vivo studies and highlights the molecular targets in parasites and immune responses induced in definitive hosts by this drug. Moreover, new therapeutic uses of PZQ are discussed. Studies have demonstrated that in addition to impacting voltage-operated Ca2 + channels, PZQ may interact with other schistosome molecules, such as myosin regulatory light chain, glutathione S-transferase, and transient receptor potential channels. Following PZQ administration, increased T regulatory type 1 (Tr1) cell differentiation and decreased inflammation were observed, indicating that PZQ promotes immunoregulatory pathways. Although PZQ is widely used in mass drug administration schemes, the existence of resistant parasites has not been proven; however, it is a concern that should be constantly investigated in human populations. In addition, we discuss studies that evaluate health applications of PZQ (other than helminth infection), such as its effect in cancer therapy and its adjuvant action in vaccines against viruses.

Novel Scintillating Nanoparticles for Potential Application in Photodynamic Cancer Therapy.

The development of X-ray-absorbing scintillating nanoparticles is of high interest for solving the short penetration depth problem of visible and infrared light in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Thus, these nanoparticles are considered a promising treatment for several types of cancer. Herein, gadolinium oxide nanoparticles doped with europium ions (Gd2O3:Eu3+) were obtained by using polyvinyl alcohol as a capping agent. Hybrid silica nanoparticles decorated with europium-doped gadolinium oxide (SiO2-Gd2O3:Eu3+) were also prepared through the impregnation method. The synthesized nanoparticles were structurally characterized and tested to analyze their biocompatibility. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the high crystallinity and purity of the Gd2O3:Eu3+ particles and the homogeneous distribution of nanostructured rare earth oxides throughout the fumed silica matrix for SiO2-Gd2O3:Eu3+. Both nanoparticles displayed stable negative ζ-potentials. The photoluminescence properties of the materials were obtained using a Xe lamp as an excitation source, and they exhibited characteristic Eu3+ bands, including at 610 nm, which is the most intense transition band of this ion. Cytotoxicity studies on mouse glioblastoma GL261 cells indicated that these materials appear to be nontoxic from 10 to 500 µg·mL-1 and show a small reduction in viability in non-tumor cell lines. All these findings demonstrate their possible use as alternative materials in PDT.

Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Bixa orellana and Its Component Ellagic Acid Exert Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties against Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense.

Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense (Mabs) causes chronic infections, which has led to the need for new antimycobacterial agents. In this study, we investigated the antimycobacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethyl acetate fraction of Bixa orellana leaves (BoEA) and ellagic acid (ElAc). In silico analysis predicted that ElAc had low toxicity, was not mutagenic or carcinogenic, and had antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Apparently, ElAc can interact with COX2 and Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) enzymes, which could explain both activities. In vitro analysis showed that BoEA and ElAc exerted antimicrobial activity against Mabs (minimum inhibitory concentration of 1.56, 1.56 mg/mL and bactericidal concentration of 6.25, 3.12 mg/mL, respectively. Clarithromycin showed MIC and MBC of 1 and 6 µg/mL). Treatment with BoEA or ElAc increased survival of Tenebrio molitor larvae after lethal infection with Mabs and reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice, around 40% of edema volume after the fourth hour, similarly to diclofenac. In conclusion, BoEA and ElAc exert antimicrobial effects against Mabs and have anti-inflammatory effects, making them potential sources of antimycobacterial drugs. The biological activities of ElAc may be due to its high binding affinities predicted for COX2 and DHFR enzymes.

Restricted Activation of the NF-κB Pathway in Individuals with Latent Tuberculosis Infection after HIF-1α Blockade.

Tuberculous granuloma formation is mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α), and is essential for establishing latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and its progression to active tuberculosis (TB). Here, we investigated whether HIF-1α expression and adjacent mechanisms were associated with latent or active TB infection. Patients with active TB, individuals with LTBI, and healthy controls were recruited, and the expression of cytokine genes IL15, IL18, TNFA, IL6, HIF1A, and A20 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum vitamin D (25(OH)D3) levels were evaluated. Additionally, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were analyzed in PBMC lysates and culture supernatants, respectively, after HIF-1α blockade with 2-methoxyestradiol. We observed that IL-15 expression was higher in individuals with LTBI than in patients with active TB, while IL-18 and TNF-α expression was similar between LTBI and TB groups. Additionally, serum 25(OH)D3 levels and expression of IL-6, HIF1A, and A20 were higher in patients with active TB than in individuals with LTBI. Moreover, PBMCs from individuals with LTBI showed decreased NF-κB phosphorylation and increased TNF-α production after HIF-1α blockade. Together, these results suggest that under hypoxic conditions, TNF-α production and NF-κB pathway downregulation are associated with the LTBI phenotype.

Relações entre Parentalidade e Funções Executivas: Uma Revisão Sistemática / Relations between Parenting and Executive Functions: A Systematic Review / Relaciones entre las Prácticas Parentales y las Funciones Ejecutivas: Una Revisión Sistemática

A presente revisão sistemática investigou a produção científica a respeito da relação entre práticas parentais e funções executivas de crianças com desenvolvimento típico de zero a 13 anos. Foram realizadas buscas no Google Acadêmico, PsycNET, PubMed e SciELO, considerando artigos publicados entre 2008 e 2018, em português, inglês ou espanhol. Um total de 668 arquivos foi encontrado e, após as etapas de triagem, elegibilidade e seleção, foram incluídos 37 trabalhos. Os aspectos gerais dos artigos selecionados e seus resultados foram analisados. A maioria dos estudos foi realizada nos EUA e em países europeus, com crianças de zero a seis anos de idade. Para acessar as variáveis de interesse, diferentes métodos foram utilizados, como tarefas, testes, escalas e entrevistas. As práticas parentais investigadas foram categorizadas em: a) construtos gerais de parentalidade, b) parentalidade estimuladora, c) cuidados e afetividade parental e d) outros comportamentos parentais. Os resultados dos artigos indicaram relação entre as diferentes práticas parentais e as funções executivas dos filhos, sugerindo a influência da parentalidade no desenvolvimento executivo durante a infância. Orientações para estudos futuros são apresentadas. (AU)

This systematic review investigated the scientific production regarding the relationship between parenting practices and executive functions of children with typical development from zero to 13 years old. Searches were made on Google Scholar, PsycNET, PubMed and SciELO, considering articles published between 2008 and 2018, in Portuguese, English or Spanish. A total of 668 files were found and, after the screening, eligibility and selection steps, 37 papers were included. The general aspects of the selected articles and their results were analyzed. Most studies were conducted in the USA and in European countries, with children from zero to six years old. To assess the variables of interest, different methods were used, such as tasks, tests, scales and interviews. The investigated parenting practices were categorized into: a) general parenting constructs, b) stimulating parenting, c) affective parental care, and d) other parenting behaviors. The results of the articles indicated a relationship between different parenting practices and the executive functions of children, suggesting the influence of parenting on executive development during childhood. Orientations for future studies are presented. (AU)

Esta revisión sistemática investigó la producción científica con respecto a la relación entre las prácticas parentales y las funciones ejecutivas de los niños con un desarrollo típico de cero a 13 años. Se realizaron búsquedas en Google Scholar, PsycNET, PubMed y SciELO, teniendo en cuenta los artículos publicados entre 2008 y 2018, en portugués, inglés o español. Se encontraron un total de 668 archivos y, después de los pasos de cribado, elegibilidad y selección, se incluyeron 37 documentos. Se analizaron los aspectos generales de los artículos seleccionados y sus resultados. La mayoría de los estudios se llevaron a cabo en los Estados Unidos y en países europeos, con niños de cero a seis años. Para acceder a las variables de interés, se utilizaron diferentes métodos, como tareas, pruebas, escalas y entrevistas. Las prácticas parentales investigadas se clasificaron en: a) constructos generales de parentalidad, b) parentalidad estimuladora, c) cuidados y afectividad parental y d) otros comportamientos parentales. Los resultados de los artículos indicaron una relación entre las diferentes prácticas parentales y las funciones ejecutivas de los niños, lo que sugiere la influencia de las prácticas parentales en el desarrollo ejecutivo durante la infancia. Se presentan orientaciones para futuros estudios. (AU)

Quality of life outcomes after minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum utilizing a new set of metallic bars and stabilizers.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the postoperative quality of life (QoL) of patients who underwent minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) with a newly designed bar and bar stabilizers. METHODS: We conducted a prospective randomized study in which patients were operated either with standard perpendicular stabilizers (control group) or with the newly designed oblique stabilizers (intervention group). All patients were evaluated 6 months after the operation with the Pectus Excavatum Evaluation Questionnaire (PEEQ). RESULTS: There were 16 patients in the control group and 14 in the intervention group. Mean age was 17 (SD: 3.3, range 14-27) years. There were no demographic differences between groups. Two patients in the control group and one in the intervention group were repaired with two bars instead of one. There was one reoperation in each group. There was a significant difference between the pre- and postoperative scores, in both groups, in the patient body image domain (control group: 9.5 to 3; p < 0.01; intervention group 10 to 3; p < 0.01), as well as in the psychosocial domain (control group: 13.5 to 24, p < 0.01; intervention group: 15 to 24, p < 0.01). With regards to the patients' perception of physical difficulties before and after MIRPE, the difference between pre- and postoperative scores was greater in the intervention group (8 to 12, p < 0.01) than in the control group (10 to 11, p = 0.04). The mean length of stay was 4.5 and 5 days in the intervention group and the control group, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that patients who underwent MIRPE with the newly designed bars and stabilizers had non-inferior outcomes than patients reported in the literature who underwent MIRPE with standard bars and stabilizers. We found slightly better outcomes in patients in the intervention group compared to the control group, but larger studies will be needed to confirm if those differences are statistically significant. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Compounds isolated from Bixa orellana: evidence-based advances to treat infectious diseases / Compuestos aislados de Bixa orellana: avances basados en la evidencia para tratar enfermedades infecciosas

SUMMARY Bixa orellana L. is a native plant from Brazil, but it is also present in other tropical countries such as Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Indonesia, India and East Africa. It is popularly known as Urucum in Brazil. This review shows the potential of bioactive compounds derived from B. orellana to treat infectious diseases due their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This plant is also related as an antiinflammatory agent for treatment of pulmonary diseases, or even as eye drops for redness. Its leaves are used for treatment of snakebite, diarrhea, gonorrhea, hepatitis, gastritis, diuretic, antipyretic, and for skin disease. This popular knowledge has encouraged the identification of bioactive compounds in this plant. Compounds as β-cryptoxanthin, geranylgeraniol, lutein, procyanidin B2, procyanidin B3, ellagi tannin isomer and ellagic acid deoxyhexose have been described. These compounds inhibited pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoan and viruses. In addition, some compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were also described. In this sense, B. orellana is a promising source of compounds that could be applied in antimicrobial therapy. This review work may help in the understanding and incentive of new research for antimicrobial discoveries using different B. orellana compounds.

RESUMEN Bixa orellana L. es una planta nativa de Brasil, pero también está presente en otros países tropicales como Perú, Colombia, Ecuador, México, Indonesia, India y África Oriental. Es conocida popularmente como Urucum en Brasil. Esta revisión expone el potencial de los compuestos bioactivos derivados de B. orellana para tratar enfermedades debido a sus propiedades antimicrobianas y antioxidantes. Esta planta también está relacionada como un agente antiinflamatorio para el tratamiento de enfermedades pulmonares e incluso como gotas para los ojos para el enrojecimiento. Sus hojas se utilizan para el tratamiento de la mordedura de serpiente, diarrea, gonorrea, hepatitis, gastritis, diuréticos, antipiréticos y para enfermedades de la piel. Ese conocimiento popular ha fomentado la identificación de compuestos bioactivos en esa planta. Los compuestos β-criptoxantina, geranilgeraniol, luteína, procianidina B2, procianidina B3, isómero elagitanino y ácido elágico desoxihexosa inhibieron microorganismos patógenos como bacterias, hongos, protozoos y virus. En ese sentido, B. orellana es una fuente prometedora de compuestos que podrían aplicarse en la terapia antimicrobiana. Este trabajo de revisión puede ayudar a comprender e incentivar nuevas investigaciones para los descubrimientos de antimicrobianos que utilizan diferentes compuestos de B. orellana.

Equine yolk sac: a stem cells source / Saco vitelino equino: una fuente de células madre

SUMMARY: Mesenchymal stem cells are characterized by in vitro high proliferation and multilineage potential maintenance. This study aimed to isolate and characterize equine YS mesenchymal stem cells and compare these with amniotic membranes. The yolk sac (YS) and amniotic membranes (AM) were obtained from 20 pregnant mares with gestational age around 30 days. Cells were cultured in α-MEM supplemented with 15 % FBS, 1 % antibiotic solution, 1 % L-glutamine and 1 % nonessential amino acids. To cell characterization we used cytogenetic analysis, fibroblast colony-forming unit assays, cell growth curves, immunophenotyping, flow cytometry, differentiation assays and teratoma formation. Results: Both cell sources presented fibroblastoid and epithelioid-like format. The YS cells have lower colony formation potential then AM ones, 3 versus 8 colonies per 103 plated cells. However, YS cells grew progressively while AM cells showed steady. Both, the YS and amnion cells immunolabeled for Oct-4, Nanog, SSEA-3, cytokeratin 18, PCNA, and vimentin. In addition, presented mesenchymal, hematopoietic, endothelial and pluripotency markers in flow cytometry. Discussion: Both cell sources presented high plasticity and differed into osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic lineages, and no tumor formation in nude mice was observed. The results suggest that horse YS may be useful for cell therapy such as amnion-derived cells.

RESUMEN: Las células madre mesenquimales se caracterizan por una alta proliferación in vitro y un mantenimiento potencial de múltiples líneas. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo aislar y caracterizar las células madre mesenquimales del saco vitelino equinas y compararlas con las membranas amnióticas. Se obtuvo el saco vitelino (SV) y las membranas amnióticas (MA) de 20 yeguas preñadas con edad gestacional de aproximadamente 30 días. Las células se cultivaron en α -MEM suplementado con 15 % de FBS, 1 % de solución antibiótica, 1 % de L-glutamina y 1 % de aminoácidos no esenciales. Para la caracterización celular utilizamos análisis citogenéticos, ensayos de unidades de colonias de fibroblastos, curvas de crecimiento celular, inmunofenotipaje, citometría de flujo, ensayos de diferenciación y formación de teratomas. Ambas fuentes celulares presentaron formato fibroblastoideo y epitelioide. Las células SV tienen un potencial de formación de colonias más bajo que las de MA, 3 versus 8 colonias por 103 células en placa. Sin embargo, las células SV crecieron progresivamente mientras que las células MA se mostraron estables. Tanto las células YS como las células amnios están inmunomarcadas para Oct-4, Nanog, SSEA-3, citoqueratina 18, PCNA y vimentina. Además, presentó marcadores mesenquimales, hematopoyéticos, endoteliales y pluripotenciales en citometría de flujo. Ambas fuentes celulares presentaron alta plasticidad y diferían en linajes osteogénicos, adipogénicos y condrogénicos, y no se observó formación de tumores en ratones. Los resultados sugieren que el SV de caballo puede ser útil para la terapia celular, como las células derivadas de amnios.