Antiprotozoal, Anthelmintic and Antivectorial Activities of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles.

Nanotechnology has been established as a promising alternative for treating a myriad of disease-causing microorganisms that pose threats to human health. The utilization of nanoparticles (NPs) emerges as a strategy to enhance the therapeutic arsenal against these diseases, especially given the tendency of many pathogens to develop resistance to conventional medications. Notably, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) have garnered attention for their multifaceted biomedical applications, encompassing antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, and drug delivery properties. This review focuses on the cutting-edge potential of TiO2NPs against helminths, protozoa, and vectors, underscoring their pivotal role in combating these health-threatening agents.

Estimated quantification of residual volume in vaccines supplies and its impact on the Brazilian health system.

Between 2017 and 2021, the Brazilian Unified Health System (BUHS) administered a total of 527,903,302 doses of immunizations. Each immunization results in the presence of a residual volume (RV) due to syringe dead space (DS). The International Organization for Standardization 7886-1 allows a DS of up to 0.07mL in sterile single-use hypodermic syringes with volumes less than 5mL. This study aims to quantify the DS of immunization devices used in Brazil, study the best combinations of needles and syringes to minimize RV, estimate the number of wasted doses from 2017 to 2021, and evaluate the impact on the BUHS. Pneumococcal 10 vaccine with a 25x6mm needle and a regular 1mL syringe exhibited a significantly higher average RV (0.0826mL) and waste rate (14.42%). It was observed that for some intramuscular vaccines, there is less waste when using a 20x5.5mm needle compared to a 25x6mm needle. The use of syringes with plunger stoppers that penetrate the syringe barrel, denoted as low dead space syringes, results in less RV and an estimated difference in the waste rate of approximately 10% compared to the regular syringe. The estimated number of wasted doses from 2017 to 2021 by BUHS is approximately 32 million doses.

Genetic variation of FcγRIIa induces higher uptake of Leishmania infantum and modulates cytokine production by adherent mononuclear cells in vitro.

Introduction: Single nucleotide variations (SNVs) are specific genetic variations that commonly occur in a population and often do not manifest phenotypically. However, depending on their location and the type of nucleotide exchanged, an SNV can alter or inhibit the function of the gene in which it occurs. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) receptor genes have exhibited several polymorphisms, including rs1801274, which is found in the FcgRIIa gene. The replacement of A with T results in a Histidine (H) to Arginine (R) substitution, altering the affinity of the IgG receptor for IgG subtypes and C-reactive protein (CRP). In this study, we analyzed rs1801274 and its functional implications concerning L. Infantum uptake and cytokine production. Methods: We genotyped 201 individuals from an endemic area for visceral leishmaniasis to assess the presence of rs1801274 using Taqman probes for a candidate gene study. Additionally, we included seventy individuals from a non-endemic area for a functional study. Subsequently, we isolated and cultivated one-week adherent mononuclear cells (AMCs) derived from the peripheral blood of participants residing in the non-endemic region in the presence of L. infantum promastigotes, with and without antigen-specific IgG and/or CRP. We analyzed the rate of phagocytosis and the production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12 p70, IL-1b, IL- 6, and IL-8 in the culture supernatants. Results and discussion: In participants from the endemic region, the A/G (H/R isoform) heterozygous genotype was significantly associated with susceptibility to the disease. Furthermore, SNVs induced a change in the phagocytosis rate in an opsonin-dependent manner. Opsonization with IgG increased the production of IL-10, TNF-a, and IL-6 in AMCs with the H/R isoform, followed by a decrease in NO production. The results presented here suggest that the rs1801274 polymorphism is linked to a higher susceptibility to visceral leishmaniasis.

Anti-inflammatory actions of aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 (AT-RvD1) in bronchial epithelial cells stimulated by cigarette smoke extract.

Smoking causes several diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aspirin-triggered-resolvin D1 (AT-RvD1) is a lipid mediator produced during the resolution of inflammation and demonstrates anti-inflammatory and pro-resolution effects in several inflammatory experimental models including in the airways. Here we evaluated the role of AT-RvD1 (100 nM) in bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) stimulated by cigarette smoke extract (CSE; 1%; 1 cigarette) for 24 h. CSE induced the productions of IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-4 and IFN-γ as well as the activations of NF-κB and STAT3 and the expression of ALX/FPR2 receptor. AT-RvD1 reduced the IL-1ß and TNF-α production and increased the production of IFN-γ. These effects were reversed BOC2, an antagonist of ALX/FPR2 receptor for AT-RvD1. The production of IL-4 and IL-10 were not altered by AT-RvD1. In addition, AT-RvD1 reduced the phosphorylation of NF-κB and STAT3 when compared to CSE-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. No alteration of ALX/FPR2 expression was observed by AT-RvD1 when compared to CSE group. In the human monocytic leukemia cell line, the relative number of copies of IL-1ß and IL-4 was significantly higher in CSE + AT-RvD1 group compared CSE group, however, the expression of M1 cytokine was more pronounced than M2 profile. AT-RvD1 could be an important target for the reduction of inflammation in the airways associated with smoking.

Toxicity Assessment of New Ag-ZnO/AgO Nanocomposites: An In Vitro and In Vivo Approach.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are metal oxide nanomaterials, which are important for several applications: antibacterial, anthelmintic, antiprotozoal and antitumoral, among others. These applications are mainly related to the ability to spontaneously produce and induce the production of reactive oxygen species that are important components for the destruction of pathogens and tumor cells. While trying to potentiate ZnO NPs, studies have associated these NPs with silver oxide (AgO) or silver (Ag) NPs. It has already been reported that this combination (Ag-ZnO/AgO NPs) is able to enhance the microbicidal potential. Although possessing much potential for several purposes, it is important to evaluate whether this association also poses the risk of toxicity to cells and experimental models. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the toxicity of various Ag-ZnO/AgO NP nanocomposites, in vitro and in vivo. Accordingly, ZnO nanocrystals and nanocomposites with various concentrations of AgO (ZnO:5Ag, ZnO:9Ag or ZnO:11Ag) were used in different cytotoxicity models: Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella), cell lines (VERO and RAW 264.7) and C57BL/6 mice. In the G. mellonella model, four concentrations were used in a single dose, with subsequent evaluation of mortality. In the case of cells, serial concentrations starting at 125 µg/mL were used, with subsequent cytotoxicity assessment. Based on the safe doses obtained in G. mellonella and cell models, the best doses were used in mice, with subsequent evaluations of weight, biochemistry as also renal and liver histopathology. It was observed that the toxicity, although low, of the nanocomposites was dependent upon the concentration of AgO used in association with ZnO NPs, both in vitro and in vivo.

Effects of amino acid supplementation on muscle mass, muscle performance and functional capacity in subjects undergoing total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.

The aim of the present study was to summarize the effectiveness of amino acid supplementation on muscle strength, muscle volume, and functional capacity in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. For this, in November 2022, a search was carried out in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases, identifying a total of 2182 documents, of which only 4 were included in the present review. The included studies had 148 participants (47 men and 101 women), with a minimum age of 53 and a maximum of 92 years, and supplementation times of 13 to 30 days (1 to 3 times a day). For the results, in relation to muscle performance, when comparing the control and experimental groups, greater muscle atrophy was observed in the pre- and post-moments of the control group, in relation to the experimental group. In addition, studies suggest a good tendency for muscle mass gain, and improvement in the functional capacities of patients who used supplementation. Therefore, the use of amino acids after TKA surgery reduces muscle atrophy, which preserves muscle mass and leads to better performance in tests of strength and functional capacity, when compared to the use of a placebo.

Elevated NS1 serum levels reduce CD119 expression and CXCL-10 synthesis in patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever

ABSTRACT Background: The intensity of dengue virus (DV) replication and circulating non-structural protein 1 (NS1) levels may promote changes in the human immune response and favor severe forms of infection. We investigated the correlations between NS1 with CXCL-8, CXCL-10, IFN-γ, and IL-12p40 serum levels, and IFN-γ receptor α chain (CD119) expression, and CXCL10 production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with recombinant IFN-γ in DV-infected patients with different clinical forms. Methods: Dengue virus NS1, CXCL-8, CXCL-10, IFN-γ, and IL-12p40 serum levels were measured in 152 DV-infected patients with different clinical forms and 20 non-infected individuals (NI) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, we investigated the CXCL-10 production after in vitro IFN-γ stimulation of PBMCs from 48 DV-infected individuals (with different clinical forms of dengue fever) and 20 NI individuals using ELISA, and CD119 expression on CD14+ cells with flow cytometry. Results: Patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) had significantly higher NS1, CXCL-8, and CXCL-10 serum levels than those with classic dengue fever (DF). The response of PBMCs to IFN-γ stimulation was lower in patients with DHF than in those with DF or dengue with complications (DWC), with lower CD119 expression and reduced CXCL-10 synthesis. In addition, these alterations are associated with high NS1 serum levels. Conclusions: Patients with DHF reported high NS1 levels, low CD119 expression, and low CXCL-10 synthesis in PBMCs, which may be associated with infection progression and severity.

Estresse e qualidade de vida em docentes universitários / Stress and quality of life in university professors / Estrés y calidad de vida en profesores universitarios

Objetivo: analisar o nível de estresse e qualidade de vida em docentes universitários segundo a literatura científica. Método:foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica cujos dados foram coletados no período compreendido entre fevereiro de 2023 e março de 2023, utilizando-se como fontes a biblioteca eletrônica Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO) e as bases de dados Literatura Latino Americana e do Caribe em Ciências Sociais e da Saúde (LILACS), Bases de Dados em Enfermagem (BDENF) e PubMed. Resultados:Entre os fatores estressores, destacam-se a alta carga de trabalho, a falta de reconhecimento, a pressão por publicações e as relações interpessoais no ambiente de trabalho. Esses fatores podem afetar negativamente a saúde física e psicológica dos docentes, bem como sua vida pessoal, comprometendo seu bem-estar e sua satisfação profissional. Por outro lado, a revisão bibliográfica também apontou programas de intervenção que visam reduzir o estresse e promover a qualidade de vida dos docentes universitários, baseados em estratégias de prevenção, coping e apoio social. Conclusão:é fundamental compreender a relação entre estresse e qualidade de vida em docentes universitários, bem como desenvolver estratégias que possam minimizar o impacto do estresse e melhorar o bem-estar desses profissionais

Objective: to analyze the level of stress and quality of life in university professors according to the scientific literature. Method:a bibliographic review was carried out whose data were collected between February 2023 and March 2023, using as sources the electronic library Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and the databases Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Social and Health Sciences (LILACS), Nursing Databases (BDENF) and PubMed. Results:Among the stressors, high workload, lack of recognition, pressure for publications and interpersonal relationships in the work environment stand out. These factors can negatively affect the physical and psychological health of teachers, as well as their personal life, compromising their well-being and professional satisfaction. On the other hand, the literature review also pointed out intervention programs that aim to reduce stress and promote the quality of life of university professors, based on strategies of prevention, coping and social support. Conclusion:it is essential to understand the relationship between stress and quality of life in university professors, as well as to develop strategies that can minimize the impact of stress and improve the well-being of these professional

Objetivo: analizar el nivel de estrés y la calidad de vida en profesores universitarios según la literatura científica. Método:se realizó una revisión bibliográfica cuyos datos fueron recolectados entre febrero de 2023 y marzo de 2023, utilizando como fuentes la biblioteca electrónica Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) y las bases de datos Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Social and Health Sciences (LILACS), Nursing Databases (BDENF) y PubMed. Resultados:Entre los estresores, se destacan la alta carga de trabajo, la falta de reconocimiento, la presión por las publicaciones y las relaciones interpersonales en el ambiente de trabajo. Estos factores pueden afectar negativamente la salud física y psicológica de los docentes, así como su vida personal, comprometiendo su bienestar y satisfacción profesional.Por otro lado, la revisión de la literatura también señaló programas de intervención que tienen como objetivo reducir el estrés y promover la calidad de vida de los profesores universitarios, basados en estrategias de prevención, afrontamiento y apoyo social. Conclusión:es esencial comprender la relación entre estrés y calidad de vida en profesores universitarios, así como desarrollar estrategias que puedan minimizar el impacto del estrés y mejorar el bienestar de estos profesionales.

Nutritional Status and Physical Activity Level of Administrative Employees in a Private Higher Education Institution / Estado Nutricional e Nível de Atividade Física de Colaboradores Administrativos em uma Instituição de Nível Superior Privada

The low level of physical activity as well as overweight/obesity are associated with chronic diseases, which are the predominant causes of mortality, especially in developing countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status and the physical activity level of administrative collaborators in a private high education institution. A cross-sectional study was performed in 2023 in administrative collaborators of an university located in Niteroi, RJ. Collected data: personal information and health data (questionnaire), weight and height for nutrition status ("adequate body weight or overweight/obese" according to body mass index) and physical activity level ("low or adequate") according to international questionnaire (IPAQ, short version). Statistical analysis: SPSS, v.21. Results: A total of 54 administrative collaborators (female 70.4%), with means: 37.7 (10.9) years old, body weight 78.0 (22.3) kg, body mass index 28.2 (6.4) Kg/m², with no statistical difference in age by sex (p=0.78) and higher body mass index in men (p=0.012) compared to women. Overweight/obesity was observed in 61,1% (n=33) (CI: 46.9; 764.1%) of the sample. Low physical activity level in 37% (n=20) (CI: 24.3; 51.3%) and adequate in 63% (n=34) (CI: 48.7; 75.7%) of the administrative collaborators, with no statistical difference by nutritional status (p=0.89) nor by sex (p=0.96). It is necessary the development of actions to promote regular physical activity practices among administrative collaborators, including institutional programs for this purpose. These actions can minimize the risk of obesity/overweight, in addition to other complications associated with low level of physical activity. (AU)

O baixo nível de atividade física, bem como o sobrepeso/obesidade estão associados à doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, principais causas de mortalidade, especialmente nos países em desenvolvimento. O objetivo foi avaliar o estado nutricional e o nível de atividade física de colaboradores administrativos de uma instituição privada de ensino superior. Estudo transversal realizado no ano de 2023 em colaboradores administrativos de uma universidade localizada em Niterói, RJ. Os dados coletados foram: informações pessoais e dados de saúde (questionário), peso e altura para estado nutricional ("peso corporal adequado ou sobrepeso/obesidade", conforme índice de massa corporal) e nível de atividade física ("baixo ou adequado") de acordo com questionário internacional (IPAQ, versão curta). Análise estatística: SPSS, v.21. Foram avaliados 54 colaboradores administrativos (sexo feminino 70,4%), com médias: 37,7 (10,9) anos, peso corporal 78,0 (22,3) kg, índice de massa corporal 28,2 (6,4) Kg/m², sem diferença estatística na idade por sexo (p=0,78) e maior índice de massa corporal entre homens em relação às mulheres (p=0,012). Sobrepeso/obesidade foi observado em 61,1% (n=33) (IC: 46,9; 74,1%) da amostra. Baixo nível de atividade física em 37% (n=20) (IC: 24,3; 51,3%) e adequado em 63% (n=34) (IC: 48,7; 75,7%) dos colaboradores administrativos, sem diferença estatística por estado nutricional (p=0,89) e sexo (p=0,96). Conclui-se serem necessárias ações que promovam a prática regular de atividade física entre colaboradores administrativos, incluindo programas institucionais para esse fim. Essas ações podem minimizar o risco de obesidade/sobrepeso, além de outras intercorrências associadas ao baixo nível de atividade física. (AU)

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy triggered by COVID-19 in a previously asymptomatic person living with undiagnosed HIV infection.

This report presents the case of a 47-year-old male patient who worked as a mathematics teacher and experienced the sudden onset of disorientation, aphasia, and acalculia during an online class. The current study reveals the first documented case of HIV and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy with the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and human polyomavirus 2 (previously known as John Cunningham virus) in the cerebrospinal fluid. Furthermore, serum analysis revealed elevated concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and IL-8, which are potential factors known to reduce the expression of tight junctions and adhesion molecules in the extracellular matrix, thereby affecting the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. Finally, the study discusses whether SARS-CoV-2 triggers or exacerbates progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

Embryo biopsies for genomic selection in tropical dairy cattle.

Genomic selection has transformed the livestock industry, enabling early-life selection of animals. Biopsy sampling of pre-implantation embryos has been described since 1968. However, it was only after 2010, with the advancement of molecular biology techniques such as whole genomic amplification and SNP Chips, that next-generation sequencing became commercially available for bovine embryos. It is now possible to make decisions about which embryos to transfer not only based on recipients' availability or embryo morphology but also on genomic estimates. This technology can be implemented for a wide spectrum of applications in livestock. In this review, we discuss the use of embryo biopsy for genomic selection and share our experience with Gir and Girolando Brazilian breeding programs, as well as future goals for implementing it in Brazilian bovine in vitro embryo production practices.

Imputation accuracy for genomic selection using embryo biopsy samples in Gir.

The aim of this study was to establish a platform for genomic selection of in vitro-fertilized (IVF) Gir embryos. Multiple displacement amplification (MDA)-based embryo biopsy samples were genotyped, and genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) for milk yield (305MY) were calculated. The concordance of GEBV and accuracy between embryo biopsies and the respective liveborn were assessed. Imputation was performed using two panels (Z-Chip and Bovine HD, Illumina) based on a database of 73,110 lactating cow's database and pedigree files from 147,131 animals. Biopsied embryos had similar pregnancy rates (39% vs 40%), pregnancy loss rates (18% vs 20%), and pregnancy length compared to Control embryos. After genotyping, low call rate means were detected for biopsy samples compared to the respective calf samples (0.80 vs 0.98). Imputation presented 0.83 (Z-Chip) and 0.96 (HD) accuracy (CORRanim). Embryo GEBV accuracy levels were higher in BovineHD imputation (0.82) than Z-Chip imputation (0.55) or no imputation (0.62), and the correlation between embryo/calf pairs' accuracy was 0.85 for BovineHD imputation, 0.11 for Z-Chip imputation, and 0.02 for no imputation. GEVB estimates correlation between embryo/calf pairs was 0.87 for BovineHD imputation, 0.80 for Z-Chip imputation, and 0.41 before imputation. The call rate of embryo samples did not affect the correlation between embryo/calf pairs for accuracy and GEBV before and after BovineHD imputation. Embryos obtained on the same farm presented GEBV 305MY differences of up to 800 kg, emphasizing the expected impact of embryo genomic selection for the Gir breed.

Comparative analysis of diagnostic methods for the detection of Cryptococcus neoformans meningitis.

BACKGROUND: Cryptococcosis is a devastating opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals, primarily in people living with HIV/AIDS. This study evaluated a protocol for the early diagnosis of meningitis due to C. neoformans, utilizing established molecular techniques from serum and CSF samples. METHODS: The 18S and 5.8S (rDNA-ITS) sequence-specific nested PCR assays were compared with direct India ink staining and the latex agglutination test for detection of C. neoformans in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 49 Brazilian suspected meningitis patients. Results were validated with samples obtained from 10 patients negative for cryptococcosis and HIV, and by analysis of standard C. neoformans strains. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The 5.8S DNA-ITS PCR was more sensitive (89-100%) and specific (100%) than the 18S rDNA PCR and conventional tests (India ink staining and latex agglutination) for identification of C. neoformans. While the 18S PCR exhibited a sensitivity (72%) similar to that of the latex agglutination assay in serum samples, it was superior to the latex agglutination assay when testing CSF, with a sensitivity of 84%. However, the latex agglutination was superior to the 18SrDNA PCR in specificity in CSF (92%). The 5.8S DNA-ITS PCR yielded the highest levels of accuracy (96-100%) of any test for detection (serological and mycological) of C. neoformans in both serum and CSF. CONCLUSION: Use of the nested 5.8S PCR was superior to other techniques for the diagnosis of cryptococcosis. The possibility of using serum, a non-invasively collected material, in a targeted 5.8S PCR analysis to identify Cryptococcus spp. is recommended, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Our results indicate that nested 5.8S PCR can increase the diagnostic capability of cryptococcosis, and we suggest its use to monitor patients in the future.

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor contributes to drive phenotypic and functional macrophages activation in response to Toxoplasma gondii infection.

Cytokines are small molecules secreted by numerous cells. Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) is a cytokine initially described due to its function of inhibiting random macrophage migration. Currently, new functions have been described for MIF, such as stimulating inflammatory functions in response to infections by microorganisms including, Toxoplasma gondii. However, the primordial MIF function related to macrophages has been little addressed. The main purpose of the study was to recapitulate MIF function on macrophages in response to T. gondii infection. To achieve this goal, peritoneal macrophages were collected from C57BL/6WT and Mif1-/- mice after recruitment with thioglycolate. Macrophages were cultured, treated with 4-Iodo-6-phenylpyrimidine (4-IPP), and infected or not by T. gondii for 24 h. Following this, the culture supernatant was collected for cytokine, urea and nitrite analysis. In addition, macrophages were evaluated for phagocytic activity and T. gondii proliferation rates. Results demonstrated that T. gondii infection triggered an increase in MIF production in the WT group as well as an increase in the secretion of IL-10, TNF, IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-17 in the WT and Mif1-/- macrophages. Regarding the comparison between groups, it was detected that Mif1-/- macrophages secreted more IL-10 compared to WT. On the other hand, the WT macrophages produced greater amounts of TNF, IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-17. Urea production was more pronounced in Mif1-/- macrophages while nitrite production was higher in WT macrophages. T. gondii showed a greater ability to proliferate in Mif1-/- macrophages and these cells also presented enhanced phagocytic activity. In conclusion, T. gondii infection induces macrophage activation inciting cytokine production. In presence of MIF, T. gondii infected macrophages produce pro-inflammatory cytokines compatible with the M1 activation profile. MIF absence caused a dramatic reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines that are balanced by increased levels of urea and anti-inflammatory cytokines. These macrophages presented increased phagocytic capacity and shared features activation with the M2 profile.

Whole-Exome Sequencing Indicated New Candidate Genes Associated with Unilateral Cryptorchidism in Pigs.

INTRODUCTION: Cryptorchidism is a hereditary anomaly characterized by the incomplete descent of one or both testicles to the scrotum. One of the challenges of this anomaly is that the retained testicle maintains its endocrine function. As a consequence, cryptorchid animals produce hormone-tainted meat in comparison to castrated animals and are likely to be more aggressive. Cryptorchidism can lead to reduced animal welfare outcomes and cause economic losses. Identifying genetic markers for cryptorchidism is an essential step toward mitigating these negative outcomes and may facilitate genome manipulation to reduce the occurrence of cryptorchidism. Attempts to identify such markers have used genome-wide association studies. Using whole-exome sequencing, we aimed to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the coding regions of cryptorchid pigs and to characterize functional pathways concerning these SNPs. METHODS: DNA was extracted and sequenced from 5 healthy and 5 cryptorchid animals from the Landrace breed, using the Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform. Data were pre-processed using the SeqyClean tool and further mapped against the swine reference genome (Sus scrofa 11.1) using BWA software. GATK was used to identify polymorphisms (SNPs and InDels), which were annotated using the VEP tool. Network prediction and gene ontology enrichment analysis were conducted using the Cytoscape platform, and STRING software was used for visualization. RESULTS: A total of 63 SNPs were identified across the genes PIGB, CCPG1, COMMD9, LDLRAD3, TRIM44, MYLPF, SEPTIN, ZNF48, TIA1, FAIM2, KRT18, FBP1, FBP2, CTSL, DAPK1, DHX8, GPR179, DEPDC1B, ENSSSCG00000049573, ENSSSCG00000016384, ENSSSCG00000022657, ENSSSCG00000038825, and ENSSSCG00000001229. Using pathway enrichment analyses and network prospection, we have identified the following significant adjusted p value threshold of 0.001 involved with the biological function pathways of estrogen signaling, cytoskeleton organization, and the pentose phosphate pathway. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest the involvement of new SNPs and genes in developing cryptorchidism in pigs. However, further studies are needed to validate our results in a larger cohort population. Variations in the GPR179 gene, with implications at the protein level, may be associated with the appearance of this anomaly in the swine. Finally, we are showing that the estrogen signaling pathway may be involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of this congenital anomaly as previously reported in GWAS.

Factors for unfavorable evolution of snakebites in children

Pediatric patients have particularities in the clinical manifestations and complications of snakebite envenomation (SBEs), and few studies have examined this population. The objective of this paper was to study snakebites in a pediatric age group treated at a reference hospital and to evaluate factors associated with unfavorable evolution. A cross-sectional study with a clinical-epidemiological description and identification of the factors related to unfavorable evolution in patients aged <19 years old seen from January, 2018 to November, 2019 was performed. Complications related to the SBE, such as compartment syndrome, secondary infection, extensive necrosis, hemorrhage, and kidney damage, were considered unfavorable evolution. From the 325 patients in the sample, 58 were aged <19 years old; 40 (69%), 0-12 years old; and 18 (31%), 13-18 years old. All patients had local manifestations (mild, moderate, and severe), and 36 (62%) had an unfavorable evolution. Fourteen (24.1%) patients had compartment syndrome, with a significant risk association between 0 and 12 years old (p = 0.019). Two factors significantly contributed to unfavorable evolution: the timing from the bite to medical care being ≥6 hours and additional antivenom therapy needed. We conclude that the younger the patient, the smaller body segment affected, leading to disproportionality between the affected area and the amount of inoculated venom, contribute to more frequent local manifestations and complications in children rather than adults. Because of the relationship between body area and vascular volume in children differs from that in adults, the same volume of venom inoculated by snakes will be disproportionate in these two groups. Therefore, in the treatment of pediatric patients, increasing the volume of antivenom therapy is possibly necessary. Furthermore, as in adults, six hours between the bite to medical care increases the risk of complications and mortality.

LEAq - Laboratório de Entomologia Aquática "Prof. Claudio Gilberto Froehlich" and the task of facing the biodiversity knowledge deficits on Caddisflies (Trichoptera), Bahia, Brazil

ABSTRACT Insects are fundamental to biodiversity conservation in almost all ecosystems, and their population decline, and extinction directly result from environmental impacts. These facts are aggravated by the lack of knowledge of insect biodiversity, the so-called biodiversity deficits, especially the Linnean and Wallacean shortfalls. In freshwater ecosystems, biodiversity loss is higher among aquatic insects, and caddisflies comprise one of the most vulnerable orders. In this way, research focusing on describing new caddisfly species and understanding their distribution ranges will increase knowledge of caddisfly biodiversity. In the past 14 years, the team from the Laboratório de Entomologia Aquática "Prof. Dr. Claudio Gilberto Froehlich" (LEAq, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Brazil) and collaborators have been addressing these issues, resulting in 55 described species of caddisflies. Taxa in other insect orders have also received attention and an additional 16 species have been described (eight mayflies, four stoneflies, four neuropteran spongillaflies, and antlions). Here, eight caddisfly species are described and illustrated (Atopsyche froehlichi sp. nov., Austrotinodes zeferina sp. nov., Cernotina kariri sp. nov., Neoathripsodes froehlichi sp. nov., Notalina claudiofroehlichi sp. nov., Oecetis marcus sp. nov., Phylloicus froehlichi sp. nov., and Polycentropus claudioi sp. nov.), five of them in honor of LEAq's patron. In addition, new distributional data are presented for 10 known species. A checklist of the caddisfly fauna of Bahia state is also presented, with 138 species, around 75% and 30% of them recorded and described by the LEAq team, respectively. Currently, for caddisflies, Bahia is the fifth most species-rich state in Brazil, and the first in the Brazilian Northeast region.

Cell phenotypes as activity biomarkers in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is complex. Few studies in Brazilian population have addressed cell phenotypes associated with immunological responses and their associations with SLE activity. The aim of this study is to investigate cell phenotypes associated to SLE diagnosis, treatment and activity. Twenty-eight SLE female patients (17 inactive, 11 active) and 10 healthy women were included in this study. Markers of natural killer (Nk), T and B cells in peripheral blood were evaluated by flow cytometry. Nkt cells were decreased only in SLE active patients. Activated CD4+, regulatory T FoxP3+ and B cells were decreased in both active and inactive SLE patients, compared to control group. The data corroborate the disruption of immune regulatory response in SLE patients and suggest phenotipic changes as possible biomarkers of SLE activity.

Overview of Q fever in Brazil: an underestimated zoonosis

ABSTRACT This review aims to provide current information about Q fever, elucidating the etiological, epidemiological, pathogenic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and prophylactic aspects of the disease for the medical community. We discuss the main forms of presentation of the agent, its ability to persist in the body, the infinite possibilities of susceptible hosts, the main known forms of transmission, its importance in populations at occupational risk, and the role of arthropods in the natural history of the disease. Focusing on Brazil, we present the cases already described and studies developed since its first report, and how there is still much to unravel. We are aware of the possibilities of the persistence of the agent and the development of severe clinical pictures and the specific treatments currently instituted. We also wish to raise awareness about the future, the new genotypes that are emerging, the need to study the effects of vaccines, and the impact of Q fever on the population. Q fever is a poorly understood disease in Latin America, and recent studies, especially in Brazil, have revealed the importance of developing new studies.