Observational analysis of clinical and pathological characteristics and their prognostic impact in Mexican patients with breast cancer: A multi-center study.

Breast cancer is the most incidental and deadly neoplasm worldwide; in Mexico, very few epidemiologic reports have analyzed the pathological features and its impact on their clinical outcome. Here, we studied the relation between pathological features and the clinical presentation at diagnosis and their impact on the overall and progression-free survival of patients with breast cancer. For this purpose, we collected 199 clinical records of female patients, aged at least 18 years old (y/o), with breast cancer diagnosis confirmed by biopsy. We excluded patients with incomplete or conflicting clinical records. Afterward, we performed an analysis of overall and progression-free survival and associated risks. Our results showed an average age at diagnosis of 52 y/o (24-85), the most common features were: upper outer quadrant tumor (32%), invasive ductal carcinoma (76.8%), moderately differentiated (44.3%), early clinical stages (40.8%), asymptomatic patients (47.8%), luminal A subtype (47.8%). Median overall survival was not reached, but median progression-free survival was 32.2 months (29.75-34.64, CI 95%) associated risk were: clinical stage (p < 0.0001) symptomatic presentation (p = 0.009) and histologic grade (p = 0.02). Therefore, we concluded that symptom presence at diagnosis impacts progression-free survival, and palpable symptoms are related to an increased risk for mortality.

Shunt dependency in supratentorial intraventricular tumors depends on the extent of tumor resection.

BACKGROUND: Supratentorial intraventricular tumors (SIVTs) are rare lesions of various entities characteristically presenting with hydrocephalus and often posing a surgical challenge due to their deep-seated localization. We aimed to elaborate on shunt dependency after tumor resection, clinical characteristics, and perioperative morbidity. METHODS: We retrospectively searched the institutional database for patients with supratentorial intraventricular tumors treated at the Department of Neurosurgery of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich, Germany, between 2014 and 2022. RESULTS: We identified 59 patients with over 20 different SIVT entities, most often subependymoma (8/59 patients, 14%). Mean age at diagnosis was 41 ± 3 years. Hydrocephalus and visual symptoms were observed in 37/59 (63%) and 10/59 (17%) patients, respectively. Microsurgical tumor resection was provided in 46/59 patients (78%) with complete resection in 33/46 patients (72%). Persistent postoperative neurological deficits were encountered in 3/46 patients (7%) and generally mild in nature. Complete tumor resection was associated with less permanent shunting in comparison to incomplete tumor resection, irrespective of tumor histology (6% versus 31%, p = 0.025). Stereotactic biopsy was utilized in 13/59 patients (22%), including 5 patients who received synchronous internal shunt implantation for symptomatic hydrocephalus. Median overall survival was not reached and did not differ between patients with or without open resection. CONCLUSIONS: SIVT patients display a high risk of developing hydrocephalus and visual symptoms. Complete resection of SIVTs can often be achieved, preventing the need for long-term shunting. Stereotactic biopsy along with internal shunting represents an effective approach to establish diagnosis and ameliorate symptoms if resection cannot be safely performed. Due to the rather benign histology, the outcome appears excellent when adjuvant therapy is provided.

São Paulo School of Advanced Sciences on Vaccines: an overview

Two years ago, we held an exciting event entitled the São Paulo School of Advanced Sciences on Vaccines (SPSASV). Sixty-eight Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows and independent researchers from 37 different countries met at the Mendes Plaza Hotel located in the city of Santos, SP - Brazil to discuss the challenges and the new frontiers of vaccinology. The SPSASV provided a critical and comprehensive view of vaccine research from basics to the current state-of-the-art techniques performed worldwide. For 10 days, we discussed all the aspects of vaccine development in 36 lectures, 53 oral presentations and 2 poster sessions. At the end of the course, participants were further encouraged to present a model of a grant proposal related to vaccine development against individual pathogens. Among the targeted pathogens were viruses (Chikungunya, HIV, RSV, and Influenza), bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Streptococcus pyogenes), parasites (Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax), and the worm Strongyloides stercoralis. This report highlights some of the knowledge shared at the SPSASV.(AU)

Molecular Typing of Enterococcus faecalis from Persistent Endodontic Infections / Tipificación Molecular de Enterococcus faecalis Provenientes de Infecciones Endodónticas Persistentes

ABSTRACT: Molecular techniques that provide valuable information about the epidemiology of oral strains. The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic relatedness of 83 Enterococcus faecalis strains isolated from treated root canals. These strains were obtained from patients who were treated for persistent endodontic infections. E. faecalis isolates were molecular typed by Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis using Smal. Ten clonal groups and 13 pulse types with 38.7 % similarity for the less related strains were identified. Genetic heterogeneity among strains from different patients and a high level of genetic homogeneity among intrapatient strains were observed. Therefore, restriction endonuclease fingerprinting of genomic DNA from E. faecalis strains confirmed the polyclonality of the isolates obtained from the root canals of patients diagnosed with persistent endodontic infections, compared with other reports. These results provide additional data for a better understanding of the epidemiological aspects of root canal infections by E. faecalis.

RESUMEN: Las técnicas moleculares proporcionan información valiosa sobre la epidemiología de aislados orales. El propósito de este estudio fue determinar la relación genética de 83 cepas de Enterococcus faecalis aisladas de conductos radiculares tratados. Estas cepas se obtuvieron de pacientes que fueron tratados por infecciones endodónticas persistentes. Los aislados de E. faecalis se tipificaron molecularmente por electroforesis en gel de campo pulsado usando Smal. Se identificaron diez grupos clonales y 13 pulsotipos con un 38,7 % de similitud para las cepas menos relacionadas. Se observó heterogeneidad genética entre las cepas de diferentes pacientes y un alto nivel de homogeneidad genética entre las cepas intrapacientes. Por lo tanto, la toma de huellas dactilares a traves de restricción de ADN genómico de cepas de E. faecalis confirmó la policlonalidad de los aislados obtenidos de los conductos radiculares de pacientes diagnosticados con infecciones endodónticas persistentes, en comparación con otros informes. Estos resultados proporcionan datos adicionales para una mejor comprensión de los aspectos epidemiológicos de las infecciones del conducto radicular por E. faecalis.

Pulmonary atelectasis in newborns with clinically treatable diseases who are on mechanical ventilation: clinical and radiological aspects / Atelectasia pulmonar em recém-nascidos com doenças clinicamente tratáveis submetidos a ventilação mecânica: aspectos clínicos e radiológicos

Abstract Objective: To analyze the radiological aspects of pulmonary atelectasis in newborns on mechanical ventilation and treated in an intensive care unit, associating the characteristics of atelectasis with the positioning of the head and endotracheal tube seen on the chest X-ray, as well as with the clinical variables. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 60 newborns treated between 1985 and 2015. Data were collected from medical records and radiology reports. To identify associations between variables, we used Fisher's exact test. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The clinical characteristics associated with improper positioning of the endotracheal tube were prematurity and a birth weight of less than 1000 g. Among the newborns evaluated, the most common comorbidity was hyaline membrane disease. Atelectasis was seen most frequently in the right upper lobe, although cases of total atelectasis were more common in the left lung. Malpositioning of the head showed a trend toward an association with atelectasis in the left upper lobe. Conclusion: Pulmonary atelectasis is a common complication in newborns on mechanical ventilation. Radiological evaluation of the endotracheal tube placement provides relevant information for the early correction of this condition.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar os aspectos radiológicos da atelectasia pulmonar em recém-nascidos com doenças clinicamente tratáveis submetidos a ventilação mecânica e atendidos em uma unidade de tratamento intensivo neonatal, associando características da atelectasia com o posicionamento da cabeça e da cânula endotraqueal na radiografia de tórax e com variáveis clínicas. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo de corte transversal e retrospectivo, em que foram incluídos 60 pacientes internados entre 1985 e 2015. A coleta dos dados foi realizada por meio da revisão dos prontuários e dos laudos das radiografias dos recém-nascidos. Para associação das variáveis foi realizado o teste exato de Fisher. O nível de significância adotado foi p < 0,05. Resultados: As características clínicas associadas à localização inadequada da cânula foram prematuridade e o peso ao nascer inferior a 1000 g. A doença clínica mais frequentemente encontrada foi a doença da membrana hialina. O lobo pulmonar superior direito foi o que apresentou maior frequência de atelectasia, e casos de atelectasia completa foram mais frequentes no pulmão esquerdo. O mau posicionamento da cabeça mostrou uma tendência de associação com atelectasia no lobo superior esquerdo. Conclusão: A atelectasia pulmonar representou uma complicação importante em recém-nascidos submetidos a ventilação mecânica, sendo a avaliação radiológica do posicionamento da cânula endotraqueal relevante para a correção precoce dessa condição.

Bases moleculares de la resistencia a meticilina en Staphylococcus aureus / Molecular basis of methicillin-resistance in Staphylococcus aureus

Resumen Desde el inicio de la era antimicrobiana se han ido seleccionando gradualmente cepas de Staphylococcus aureus resistentes a antimicrobianos de amplio uso clínico. Es así como en 1960 se describen en Inglaterra las primeras cepas resistentes a meticilina, y algunos años después son informadas en hospitales de Chile. Actualmente, S. aureus resistente a penicilinas antiestafilocóccicas es endémico en los hospitales de nuestro país y del mundo, siendo responsable de una alta morbimortalidad. La resistencia es mediada habitualmente por la síntesis de una nueva transpeptidasa, denominada PBP2a o PBP2' que posee menos afinidad por el β-lactámico, y es la que mantiene la síntesis de peptidoglicano en presencia del antimicrobiano. Esta nueva enzima se encuentra codificada en el gen mecA, a su vez inserto en un cassette cromosomal con estructura de isla genómica, de los cuales existen varios tipos y subtipos. La resistencia a meticilina se encuentra regulada, principalmente, por un mecanismo de inducción de la expresión del gen en presencia del β-lactámico, a través de un receptor de membrana y un represor de la expresión. Si bien se han descrito mecanismos generadores de resistencia a meticilina mec independientes, son categóricamente menos frecuentes.

Staphylococcus aureus isolates resistant to several antimicrobials have been gradually emerged since the beginning of the antibiotic era. Consequently, the first isolation of methicillin-resistant S. aureus occurred in 1960, which was described a few years later in Chile. Currently, S. aureus resistant to antistaphylococcal penicillins is endemic in Chilean hospitals and worldwide, being responsible for a high burden of morbidity and mortality. This resistance is mediated by the expression of a new transpeptidase, named PBP2a or PBP2', which possesses lower affinity for the β-lactam antibiotics, allowing the synthesis of peptidoglycan even in presence of these antimicrobial agents. This new enzyme is encoded by the mecA gene, itself embedded in a chromosomal cassette displaying a genomic island structure, of which there are several types and subtypes. Methicillin resistance is mainly regulated by an induction mechanism activated in the presence of β-lactams, through a membrane receptor and a repressor of the gene expression. Although mec-independent methicillin resistance mechanisms have been described, they are clearly infrequent.

Proteomic and functional analysis identifies galectin-1 as a novel regulatory component of the cytotoxic granule machinery.

Secretory granules released by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) are powerful weapons against intracellular microbes and tumor cells. Despite significant progress, there is still limited information on the molecular mechanisms implicated in target-driven degranulation, effector cell survival and composition and structure of the lytic granules. Here, using a proteomic approach we identified a panel of putative cytotoxic granule proteins, including some already known granule constituents and novel proteins that contribute to regulate the CTL lytic machinery. Particularly, we identified galectin-1 (Gal1), an endogenous immune regulatory lectin, as an integral component of the secretory granule machinery and unveil the unexpected function of this lectin in regulating CTL killing activity. Mechanistic studies revealed the ability of Gal1 to control the non-secretory lytic pathway by influencing Fas-Fas ligand interactions. This study offers new insights on the composition of the cytotoxic granule machinery, highlighting the dynamic cross talk between secretory and non-secretory pathways in controlling CTL lytic function.

KPC: Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemasa, principal carbapenemasa en enterobacterias / KPC: Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase, main carbapenemase in Enterobacteriaceae

Resumen En la actualidad, la diseminación de enterobacterias productoras de carbapenemasas se considera un grave problema en clínica debido al fracaso en el tratamiento de las infecciones que ellas producen. Entre las carbapenemasas, la enzima KPC se ha diseminado mundialmente y ha sido identificada en las principales especies de enterobacterias relacionadas con infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud, con claro predominio de Klebsiella pneumoniae a nivel mundial. El gen blaKPC es transportado, principalmente, por el transposón Tn4401, detectado en diversas especies de enterobacterias con distintos secuencio-tipo (ST) y diferente origen geográfico. Adicionalmente, se han descrito nuevas plataformas genéticas que se distinguen del Tn4401 original debido a inserciones y deleciones de otros genes. Los plásmidos que albergan el gen blaKPC pueden ser del tipo conjugativo y no conjugativo movilizable, y además contener otros determinantes genéticos de resistencia. Las cepas productoras de KPC pueden presentar diversos niveles de resistencia a los carbapenémicos, debido a la participación de mecanismos adicionales como diferente grado de expresión de porinas y bombas de expulsión asociados con la producción de β-lactamasas de espectro extendido y/o AmpC. Sin embargo, las carbapenemasas, con KPC como la enzima más frecuente, otorgan grados de resistencia más elevados.

The dissemination of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae is currently considered a serious clinical problem due to the failure in the treatment of infections produced by them. Among the carbapenemases, the enzyme KPC has spread worldwide and has been identified in the main enterobacterial species related with healthcareassociated infections, although Klebsiella pneumoniae is the predominant specie. The blaKPC gene is transported, mainly by the transposon Tn4401, detected in various enterobacterial species of different sequence types (ST) and geographical origin. In addition, new genetic platforms that are distinguished, from Tn4401 because of insertions or deletions of other genes have been described. Plasmids containing the blaKPC gene can be conjugative and mobilizable non-conjugative plasmids, and can carry other genetic determinants of resistance. The KPC-producing strains may have different levels of resistance to carbapenems, due to the involvement of additional mechanisms such as different expression levels of porins and efflux pumps associated with the production of extended spectrum β-lactamases and/or AmpC. However, the carbapenemases, with KPC as the most common enzyme, provide higher levels of resistance.

¿Se debe revisar la determinación de la CIM de colistín en Acinetobacter baumannii? / The colistin MIC determination in Acinetobacter baumannii, Should it be reviewed?

Currently, there is a controversy in how to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of colistin against Acinetobacter baumannii. We compared three methods, concluding that the addition of Tween-80 (0.002%) to Müller-Hinton broth in the microdilution method could improve MIC determination and it could reduce false resistance.

The chilean superfruit black-berry Aristotelia chilensis (Elaeocarpaceae), Maqui as mediator in inflammation-associated disorders.

The effects of phytochemicals occurred in fractions and extracts of fruits of "Maqui-berry" (Aristotelia chilensis), on the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible-nitric oxide synthases (iNOS) and the production of proinflammatory mediators were investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated murine macrophage RAW-264 cells, as well as their antioxidant activities. The MeOH extract (A), acetone/methanol extract (B), fractions F3, F4, subfractions (SF4-SF6, SF7, SF8-SF10, SF11-SF15, SF16-SF20), quercetin, gallic acid, luteolin, myricetin, mixtures M1, M2 and M3 exhibited potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The results indicated that anthocyanins, flavonoids and its mixtures suppressed the LPS induced production of nitric oxide (NO), through the down-regulation of iNOS and COX-2 protein expressions and showed a potent antioxidant activity against SOD, ABTS, TBARS, ORAC, FRAP and DCFH. The inhibition of enzymes and NO production by selected fractions and compounds was dose-dependent with significant effects seen at concentration as low as 1.0-50.0 (ppm) and 5.0-10.0 µM, for samples (extracts, fractions, subfractions and mixtures) and pure compounds, respectively. Thus, the phenolics (anthocyanins, flavonoids, and organic acids) as the fractions and mixtures may provide a potential therapeutic approach for inflammation associated disorders and therefore might be used as antagonizing agents to ameliorate the effects of oxidative stress.

Differential expression of Low density lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 1 (LRP-1) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in prostate gland: From normal to malignant lesions.

BACKGROUND: Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are relevant modulators of inflammation, tumor microenvironment, cancer invasion and metastasis. They can be regulated by the Low density lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 1 (LRP-1), a receptor reported to mediate the clearance of lipoproteins, extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules and proteinases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of LRP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9 across various grades of prostatic diseases as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), BPH plus prostatitis (BPH+P), high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) and prostate cancer (PCa). METHODS: LRP-1 was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and MMPs proteolytic activity by zymography in prostate tissues with different prostatic diseases. RESULTS: LRP-1 was detected in epithelial cells in BPH (16/18), BPH+P (21/21) and HGPIN (6/6), with a staining intensity of 1+, 1+/2+ and 3+, respectively. In PCa, LRP-1 was absent in 19/27 samples while a low expression was observed in 8/27 biopsies. MMP-9 activity was higher and statistically significant in PCa than in BPH (p≤0.01). CONCLUSION: Considering that LRP-1, by mediating the clearance of MMPs, is involved in the regulation of ECM remodeling and cell migration, we conclude that a decreased expression of LRP-1 could be involved with the increasing activity of MMPs shown in cancers.

Actividad de cobre sobre cocáceas grampositivas multi-resistentes a los antibióticos aisladas en hospitales chilenos / Copper activity against multiresistant Gram-positive cocci isolated in Chilean hospitals

Background: Nosocomial infections caused by multiresistant Gram-positive cocci are a serious problem for public health systems worldwide. The use of copper surfaces in hospital environments has proven to be an effective alternative for the control of various microorganisms, including multiresistant nosocomial pathogens. Aim: To determine the association between antibiotic multiresistance and higher levels of copper tolerance in Gram-positive cocci isolated from Chilean hospitals, which might confer a selective advantage in environments with copper. Methods: The ionic copper tolerance levels were evaluated using the Mueller Hinton agar dilution method, in S. aureus and Enterococcus spp. strains with different levels of susceptibility to clinically relevant antibiotics. Results: A statistically significant association between higher levels of tolerance to copper ion and multi-resistance to antibiotics in Enterococcus spp. was observed.

Introducción: Las infecciones nosocomiales, producidas por bacterias cocáceas grampositivas multi-resistentes constituyen un serio problema para los sistemas de salud pública mundial. El uso de superficies de cobre en ambientes hospitalarios ha demostrado ser una alternativa efectiva para el control de diversos microorganismos, incluyendo patógenos nosocomiales multi-resistentes. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre la multi-resis-tencia a antimicrobianos y mayores niveles de tolerancia a cobre en bacterias cocáceas grampositivas aisladas de hospitales chilenos, que podrían conferir una ventaja selectiva en ambientes cobrizados. Material y Métodos: Se evaluó los niveles de tolerancia a cobre iónico en grupos de cepas de Staphylococcus aureus y Enterococcus spp. con distintos grados de susceptibilidad a antimicrobianos de relevancia clínica, mediante el método de dilución en agar Mueller Hinton. Resultados: Se observó una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre mayores niveles de tolerancia a cobre iónico y la multi-resistencia a antimicrobianos en Enterococcus spp.

Colistín en la era post-antibiótica / Colistin in the post-antibiotic era

One of the most important features of the post-antibiotic era in the late 20th century is the resurgence of colistin for the treatment of extensively drug resistant gram-negative bacteria (XDR). Colistin is a narrow spectrum anti-biotic, active against microorganisms with clinical significance such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Nowadays its toxicity is lower, partly explained by better pharmaceuticals and management of the critically ill patients. However, there has been much confusion regarding the dosage of the drug, its name and labeling, therefore, experts have recommended using a common language about this polymyxin. The lack of PK/PD studies for colistin is perhaps the main weakness of this area of knowledge, even though the before mentioned approach has contributed with new ways to manage and calculate the dose of this antimicrobial. Indeed, the efficiency of colistin in association with a second agent in reducing mortality has not been demonstrated.

El resurgimiento de colistín para el tratamiento de bacilos gramnegativos extensamente resistentes a antimicrobianos a fines del siglo pasado es una de las características más importantes de la era post-antimicrobiana. Su espectro es reducido y cubre microorganismos con importancia clínica como Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Klebsiella pneumoniae. En contraste a lo que se vio en el pasado, la toxicidad descrita en la actualidad es menor, en parte explicado por las mejores preparaciones farmacéuticas y la optimización del manejo del paciente crítico. Mucha confusión se ha generado respecto a la dosificación del fármaco, debido a la distinta denominación, etiquetado y sugerencias de los laboratorios, a pesar de que el compuesto es el mismo. Por lo anterior, el llamado de los expertos es a utilizar un lenguaje común para referirnos a esta polimixina. Los estudios modernos de PK/PD han contribuido con nuevas formas de administrar y calcular las dosis de este antimicrobiano; no obstante, falta mucho por desarrollar en esta área que se posiciona como su gran debilidad. A pesar que la terapia combinada se sustenta sobre una base teórica lógica, no se ha demostrado que la asociación de colistín con un segundo agente logre disminuir la mortalidad.

Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) effects of Eucalyptus citriodora Hook (Myrtaceae) / Efectos tóxicos e IGR de Eucalyptus citriodora Hook (Myrtaceae)

In addition to eucalyptin the methanol extract from leaves of Eucalyptus citriodora (Myrtaceae) afforded the known compounds apigenin, chrysin, luteolin, naringenin, quercetin; together with betulinic acid, oleanolic, ursolic acid, and two remaining complex mixtures of unidentified flavonoids and triterpenes. These compounds together with triterpenes mixtures, hexane and ethyl acetate extracts showed antifeedant, insecticidal and insect growth regulatory activities against fall armyworm [Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)] an important pest of corn, and yellow mealworm [Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae)] a pest of stored grains. The most active compounds were chrysin, eucalyptin, quercetin, luteolin, and betulinic and oleanolic acids and the mixtures of flavonoids and triterpenes (M1 and M2). These compounds and mixtures had IGR activity between 0.2 to 5.0 ug/mL and insecticidal effects between 5.0 and 10.0 μg/mL.The extracts were insecticidal to larvae, with lethal doses between 20-100 ug/mL. These compounds appear to have selective effects on the pre-emergence metabolism of the Lepidoptera, since in all treatments of the larvae of S. frugiperda the pupation was shortened and this process showed precociousness in relation to control. Thus, these substances may be useful as potential natural insecticidal agents.

Extracto metanolico de hojas de Eucalyptus citriodora (Myrtaceae) proporcionó además de eucalyptin, flavonoides tales como apigenina, crisina, luteolina, naringenina, quercetina; los triterpenos, ácido oleanólico, ácido ursólico betulínico, y dos mezclas complejas de flavonoides y triterpenos no identificados M1 y M2. Los flavonoides, triterpenos y mezclas de triterpenos, extractos de acetato de etilo y hexano mostraron efectos antialimentarios, insecticida y actividad reguladora de crecimiento (IGR) frente al gusano cogollero [Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)], una plaga importante del maíz y frente al gusano de la harina [Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)], una plaga de los granos almacenados. Los compuestos más activos fueron crisina, eucalyptin, quercetina, luteolina, ácido betulínico y ácido oleanólico y las mezclas de flavonoides y triterpenos (M1 y M2). Estos compuestos y mezclas mostraron actividad IGR entre 0,2 y 5,0 ug/mL y efectos insecticidas entre 5,0 y 10,0 μg/mL. Los extractos mostraron carácter insecticida para las larvas a dosis letales entre 20-100 ug/mL. Estas muestras parecen tener efectos selectivos sobre el metabolismo de pre-emergencia de los lepidópteros, ya que en todos los tratamientos de las larvas de S. frugiperda el tiempo de la pupación se acortó; este proceso muestra precocidad en relación con el control, las substancias ensayadas en este trabajo pueden ser útiles como potenciales agentes insecticidas naturales.

Enterococcus spp. isolated from root canals with persistent chronic apical periodontitis in a Chilean population

Abstract Aim: To isolate and identify in a Chilean population,Enterococcus spp. from root canals with persistent chronic apical periodontitis (CAP) and to investigate the potential correlation between the bacteria and the observed clinical features. Methods: Twenty patients with indication for endodontic retreatment due to persistent CAP were selected. Data from patient general health and dental clinical history were recorded. During retreatment, a microbial sample was obtained from the root canal and inoculated in a selectiveEnterococcus medium. Using bacterial cultivation methods, bacterial isolates belonging to the genusEnterococcus were identified. The relationship between the number of colony-forming units of Enterococcus spp. and patient clinical data was assessed statistically by the Pearson Chi square and Fisher exact tests. Finally, a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assay to determine the most prevalent species of Enterococcus spp. was conducted in the clinical samples, and the results were analyzed by a proportion comparison test. Results: Enterococcus spp. strains were isolated in 70% of the patients. Most of them (98.8%) accounted for Enterococcus faecalis and only 1.2% for Enterococcus faecium. A high frequency of E. faecalis was found in teeth with inadequate endodontic treatment or dental crown restorations. Conclusions: This study concluded that E. faecalis is prevalent in root canals with persistent CAP in a Chilean population. E. faecium as found in a single case with the poorest root canal filling. Further studies are still required to investigate the presence of other species, which may be linked to persistent chronic apical periodontitis.

Produção e aceitação de massa fresca tipo talharim enriquecida com farinha de maracujá ( Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa ) e verificação do seu efeito na glicemia / Production and acceptance of a fresh tagliarini pasta fortified with passion fruit flour ( Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa ) and verification of its effect on the blood glucose levels

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the sensory acceptance and glycemic response of fresh tagliarini pasta made with passion fruit peel flour. METHODOLOGY: passion fruit peels were dried in the temperatures of 45 °C, 50 °C, and 55 °C, in triplicate. After triturated in a blender the lighter flour was submitted to chemical composition and microbial analyzes. Two recipes were then processed; one containing 25% and another with 35% of passion fruit peel flour. The other ingredients were: white wheat flour, egg, olive oil and water. After homogenization the mixes were worked in a cylinder and cut to obtain the tagliarini form. After cooking them, both tagliarini pastas passed through a sensory test with 130 untrained volunteers. The best formulation was selected for a glycemic response test, in which 20 volunteers received the equivalent of 50 g of carbohydrate; blood glucose levels were measured in the premeal and postprandial periods. RESULTS: The chemical composition analysis showed that fiber was the main flour component, and moisture content and microbiological quality were in compliance with the current legislation. The most accepted formulation (25%) was applied in a glycemic response test. The baseline blood glucose in the experimental group was 93.1 ± 5.31 mg/dL, while the control group was 90.55 ± 8.95 mg/dL. Thirty minutes after consuming the blood glucose, the average in the experimental group was 97.0 ± 9.8 mg/dL and remained constant until 2 hours following the pasta consumption. These values were significantly lower than the average blood glucose measured in the control group after 30 and 60 minutes. This group presented an increase in 19.8 ± 10.1 mg/dL and in 17.8 ± 14.5 mg/dL, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that passion fruit peel flour can be used in pasta in order to nutritionally fortify the product and help in the glycemic control

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a aceitação sensorial e resposta glicêmica de massa fresca tipo talharim formulada com farinha da casca do maracujá. METODOLOGIA: Cascas de maracujá foram desidratadas nas temperaturas de 45 °C, 50 °C e 55 °C, em triplicata, após trituração em liquidificador; a farinha de coloração mais clara foi submetida às análises de determinação da composição centesimal e microbiológica. Duas formulações de massas foram processadas por meio da mistura dos ingredientes: farinha de trigo sem fermento, ovo, farinha de maracujá nas proporções de 25% ou 35%, azeite e água. Depois da homogeneização, a mistura foi passada em cilindro para extrusão e, em seguida, cortada para obter a forma do talharim. Depois da cocção, as duas massas tipo talharim foram submetidas a teste sensorial com 130 provadores não treinados. A formulação de melhor aceitação foi selecionada para pesquisa da resposta glicêmica, na qual 20 voluntários receberam uma porção com o equivalente a 50 g de carboidrato; a glicemia foi aferida nos períodos pré-prandial e pós-prandial. RESULTADOS: As análises de composição química mostraram as fibras como principal componente, com umidade e qualidade microbiológica adequados à legislação vigente. A formulação de melhor aceitação (25%) foi aplicada para o teste glicêmico. A glicemia basal do grupo experimental foi 93,1 ± 5,31 mg/dL, e a do grupo controle 90,55 ± 8,95 mg/dL. Trinta minutos após a ingestão, a média do grupo experimental foi de 97,0 ± 9,8 mg/dL, mantendo-se constante até 2 horas depois. Esses valores foram mais baixos do que as médias aferidas no grupo controle após 30 e 60 minutos, sendo que esse grupo apresentou um incremento glicêmico de 19,8 ± 10,16 mg/dL e de 17,8 ± 14,49 mg/dL, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados encontrados sugerem que farinha da casca do maracujá pode ser aplicada em massas alimentícias para auxiliar no controle glicêmico

In vitro activity of terpenes against Candida albicans and ultrastructural alterations.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro activity of terpene blends combined with tissue conditioner against Candida albicans and the effect on its morphology and sub-micro structure. STUDY DESIGN: The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of terpenes, obtained from a by-product of kraft pulping, was determined using broth microdilution against C. albicans strains, and the activity of terpenes combined with Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner was assessed. Cell morphologic alterations were evaluated using scanning electronic microscopy and transmission electronic microscopy. Data was analyzed using Student's t test P < .05. RESULTS: The MIC of terpene blends fluctuated between 0.097% and 0.39% (v/v). Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner mixed with terpenes exhibited a total inhibition of C. albicans (P < .05). Terpenes induced ultrastructural alterations, even at the MIC value, including an increase in size, shape modification, cell wall damage with perforations, pronounced disconnection between cell wall and cytoplasm, and cytoplasmic vacuoles. CONCLUSIONS: Terpenes had pronounced effects against C. albicans alone and in combination with Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner, which mainly resulted in cell wall damage.

Genetic vaccination against experimental infection with myotropic parasite strains of Trypanosoma cruzi.

In earlier studies, we reported that a heterologous prime-boost regimen using recombinant plasmid DNA followed by replication-defective adenovirus vector, both containing Trypanosoma cruzi genes encoding trans-sialidase (TS) and amastigote surface protein (ASP) 2, provided protective immunity against experimental infection with a reticulotropic strain of this human protozoan parasite. Herein, we tested the outcome of genetic vaccination of F1 (CB10XBALB/c) mice challenged with myotropic parasite strains (Brazil and Colombian). Initially, we determined that the coadministration during priming of a DNA plasmid containing the murine IL-12 gene improved the immune response and was essential for protective immunity elicited by the heterologous prime-boost regimen in susceptible male mice against acute lethal infections with these parasites. The prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination of resistant female mice led to a drastic reduction in the number of inflammatory infiltrates in cardiac and skeletal muscles during the chronic phase of infection with either strain. Analysis of the electrocardiographic parameters showed that prophylactic vaccination reduced the frequencies of sinus arrhythmia and atrioventricular block. Our results confirmed that prophylactic vaccination using the TS and ASP-2 genes benefits the host against acute and chronic pathologies caused by T. cruzi and should be further evaluated for the development of a veterinary or human vaccine against Chagas disease.

Adenovirus vector-induced CD8⁺ T effector memory cell differentiation and recirculation, but not proliferation, are important for protective immunity against experimental Trypanosoma cruzi Infection.

Heterologous prime-boost vaccination using plasmid DNA followed by replication-defective adenovirus vector generates a large number of specific CD8⁺ T effector memory (TEM) cells that provide long-term immunity against a variety of pathogens. In the present study, we initially characterized the frequency, phenotype, and function of these T cells in vaccinated mice that were subjected to infectious challenge with the human protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. We observed that the frequency of the specific CD8⁺ T cells in the spleens of the vaccinated mice increased after challenge. Specific TEM cells differentiated into cells with a KLRG1(High) CD27(Low) CD43(Low) CD183(Low)T-bet(High) Eomes(Low) phenotype and capable to produce simultaneously the antiparasitic mediators IFNγ and TNF. Using the gzmBCreERT2/ROSA26EYFP transgenic mouse line, in which the cells that express Granzyme B after immunization, are indelibly labeled with enhanced yellow fluorescent protein, we confirmed that CD8⁺ T cells present after challenge were indeed TEM cells that had been induced by vaccination. Subsequently, we observed that the in vivo increase in the frequency of the specific CD8⁺ T cells was not because of an anamnestic immune response. Most importantly, after challenge, the increase in the frequency of specific cells and the protective immunity they mediate were insensitive to treatment with the cytostatic toxic agent hydroxyurea. We have previously described that the administration of the drug FTY720, which reduces lymphocyte recirculation, severely impairs protective immunity, and our evidence supports the model that when large amounts of antigen-experienced CD8⁺ TEM cells are present after heterologous prime-boost vaccination, differentiation, and recirculation, rather than proliferation, are key for the resultant protective immunity.