Increase in molar mass distinguishes chondroitin sulfate from osteoarthritis and normal extracellular cartilage matrix.

PURPOSE: To determine alterations of chondroitin sulfate (CS) that reflect cartilage damage in an experimental osteoarthritis (OA) model as well as in human OA samples. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats were subjected to anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT; OA) or a sham procedure and sacrificed 14, 28, or 70 days after ACLT for histopathology and analysis of extracted CS. Cartilage samples from 14 patients undergoing hip or shoulder arthroplasty secondary to OA or fracture (control) were subjected to the same protocol. The CS content (µg/mg dry cartilage) after proteolysis was determined by densitometry, using agarose-gel electrophoresis. Molar mass (MM) and peak MM of CS were determined using high-performance size-exclusion chromatography (HPSEC). RESULTS: OA and sham joints at 70 d had 24 [22-24] and 3 [1-6] median histopathology scores, respectively (p < 0.001). Relative CS content (77.7 ± 8.3 µg/mg) was significantly increased in OA samples 70 d after ACLT, as compared to sham (53.5 ± 10.0 µg/mg). Peak MM of CS was higher in OA than in sham samples (P < 0.05). Similarly, CS content and peak MM were higher in cartilage from human OA patients, as compared to fracture samples, reproducing experimental data. CONCLUSION: Cartilage matrix from experimental and human OA samples has increased in the relative CS content. Increase in the peak MM distinguishes CS of the extracellular matrix of OA from normal cartilage.

Montelukast as a treatment for refractory cutaneous lupus: A case series.

INTRODUCTION: There are no drugs specifically approved to treat cutaneous lupus. Inflammatory cells in lupus skin lesions can produce leukotrienes (LT), which promote tissue damage. In addition to hypersensitivity reactions, LT are also associated with cardiovascular diseases and elevated serum LT levels have been linked to worse atherosclerotic disease in lupus. Targeting LT could thus be an alternative to treat lupus. We present 4 cases of cutaneous lupus successfully treated with montelukast (MLK), a Cys-LT antagonist. METHODS: Four consecutive female systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with refractory skin lesions were treated with MLK (10 mg/d) in the Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio of the Universidade Federal do Ceará. Skin lesions were scored using Revised Cutaneous LE Disease Area and Severity Index (RCLASI). Relative expression of the 5-lipoxigenase (ALOX5) and 15-lipoxigenase (ALOX15) genes was determined in peripheral blood cells (PBC) from lupus patients and 4 age-matched female controls. RESULTS: All patients experienced improvement of skin lesions measured using RCLASI scores within 2-12 weeks following initiation of MLK. The response was sustained for at least 3 months follow-up and no adverse events were recorded. ALOX5 but not ALOX15 gene expression was significantly (P = 0.0425) increased in PBC from SLE patients vs controls. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of a fast and sustained successful response of cutaneous lupus to MLK. Given its acceptable safety profile, our data encourage development of a randomized trial as an attempt to reposition MLK as a safe, affordable alternative to treat cutaneous lupus.

Potent anti-inflammatory activity of the lectin-like domain of TNF in joints.

In view of the crucial role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in joint destruction, TNF inhibitors, including neutralizing anti-TNF antibodies and soluble TNF receptor constructs, are commonly used therapeutics for the treatment of arthropathies like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, not all patients achieve remission; moreover, there is a risk of increased susceptibility to infection with these agents. Spatially distinct from its receptor binding sites, TNF harbors a lectin-like domain, which exerts unique functions that can be mimicked by the 17 residue solnatide peptide. This domain binds to specific oligosaccharides such as N'N'-diacetylchitobiose and directly target the α subunit of the epithelial sodium channel. Solnatide was shown to have anti-inflammatory actions in acute lung injury and glomerulonephritis models. In this study, we evaluated whether the lectin-like domain of TNF can mitigate the development of immune-mediated arthritis in mice. In an antigen-induced arthritis model, solnatide reduced cell influx and release of pro-inflammatory mediators into the joints, associated with reduction in edema and tissue damage, as compared to controls indicating that TNF has anti-inflammatory effects in an acute model of joint inflammation via its lectin-like domain.

Decreased Sulfate Content and Zeta Potential Distinguish Glycosaminoglycans of the Extracellular Matrix of Osteoarthritis Cartilage.

We aimed to determine the characteristics that distinguish glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from osteoarthritis (OA) and normal cartilage and from men and women. Cartilage samples from 30 patients subjected to total joint arthroplasty secondary to OA or fracture (control) were evaluated, and the GAG content (µg/mg dry cartilage) after proteolysis was determined by densitometry, using agarose-gel electrophoresis. Relative percentages of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and sulfur (S) in GAGs were determined by elemental microanalysis, as well as the zeta potential. Seventeen samples (56.6%) were from patients >70 years old, with 20 (66.6%) from women, and most [20 (66.6%)] were from the hip. The GAG content was similar regardless of patients being >/≤ 70 years old with 96.5 ± 63.5 and 78.5 ± 38.5 µg/mg (P = 0.1917), respectively. GAG content was higher in women as compared to men, with 89.5 ± 34.3 and 51.8 ± 13.3 µg/mg, respectively (P = 0.0022), as well as in OA than fracture samples, with 98.4 ± 63.5 and 63.6 ± 19.6 µg/mg, respectively (P = 0.0355). The GAG extracted from the cartilage of patients >70 years old had increase in N, and there were no gender differences regarding GAG elemental analysis. GAG from OA had a highly significant (P = 0.0005) decrease in S% (1.79% ± 0.25%), as compared to fracture samples (2.3% ± 0.19%), with an associated and significant (P = 0.0001) reduction of the zeta potential in the OA group. This is the first report of a reduced S content in GAG from OA patients, which is associated with a reduced zeta potential.

Cell sources of inflammatory mediators present in bone marrow areas inside the meniscus.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the production of inflammatory mediators by cells located in bone marrow spaces inside rodent menisci. METHODS: Mice subjected to transection of the medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligaments and meniscotomy (osteoarthritis model) or to a sham procedure, as well as non-operated (naive) mice and rats, had knee joints excised. Tissues were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). CD68+ cells, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-1ß, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) expression were detected using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Lamellar ossified areas, bone-entrapped osteocytes and bone marrow spaces were found inside menisci of one week up to 6 months-old naïve mice, regardless of gender. Menisci from naive rats also showed the same pattern with bone marrow areas. CD68+ cells were identified in bone marrow areas inside the meniscus of mice. TRAP+ osteoclasts, and hematogenous precursors expressing IL-1ß, TNF, and iNOS were identified inside bone marrow areas in meniscal samples from both naïve and sham operated mice. Quantitative immunoexpression of IL-1 ß, TNF and iNOS was more intense, P = 0.0194, 0.0293, 0.0124, respectively, in mouse knees from mice sacrificed 49 days after being subjected to an osteoarthritis (OA) model as compared to sham operated animals. CONCLUSION: We provide novel data showing that rodent menisci display bone marrow areas with cells able to produce inflammatory mediators. Immunoexpression of inflammatory mediators in those bone marrow areas is significantly more pronounced in mice subjected to experimental OA.

Systemic and local antiinflammatory effect of magnesium chloride in experimental arthritis

Abstract Objective Despite some knowledge gaps in scientific evidence, MgCl2 is largely used for pain relief in musculoskeletal diseases. Mg salts were shown to provide analgesia postoperatively in orthopedic surgery and low Mg levels were linked to arthritis development and severity. We determined the anti-inflammatory activity of MgCl2 in an acute arthritis model. Methods Mice received 0.1 mg/25μL Zymosan (Zy) or saline into the knees. Joint pain was evaluated using von Frey test; cell influx, and interleukin (IL)-1 level were assessed in joint lavage at 6 h. Synovia were excised for histopathology and analysis of immunoexpression of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Groups (n = 6/group) received either 90 mg/kg MgCl2/100 μL or saline per os (systemic) or 500 μg/25 μL MgCl2 or saline intra-articularly (i.a.) 30 min prior to Zy. Results MgCl2 given either systemically or locally significantly reduced cell influx (p = 0.0012 and p = 0.0269, respectively), pain (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.0038, respectively), and intra-articular IL-1 level (p = 0.0391), as compared to saline. Systemic MgCl2 significantly decreased NFκB (p < 0.05) immmunoexpression, as compared to saline. Conclusion MgCl2 given systemically or locally displayed anti-inflammatory activity in a severe acute arthritis model reducing cell influx, pain, and cytokine release. MgCl2 operates at least partially via inhibiting NFκB activation. This is the first in vivo demonstration that MgCl2 decreases cytokine release in arthritis, prompting reduction of inflammation and pain relief.

Avaliação do crescimento e desenvolvimento infantil e fatores de risco de um município que integra uma universidade brasileira de cunho internacional / Evaluation of childhood growth and development and risk factors of a municipality that is part of an international brazilian university / Evaluación de los factores de crecimiento y desarrollo infantil y de riesgo de un municipio que forma parte de una universidad brasileña internacional

Fatores de risco, incluindo os de cunho materno, interferem no crescimento e desenvolvimento infantil. Nesse sentido, o conhecimento desses fatores e avaliação ade- quada desses processos são necessários para articulação de estratégias preventivas de transtornos futuros. Assim, o estudo visou investigar o crescimento e desenvolvimento de crianças atendidas em consulta de puericultura em unidades básicas de saúde de um mu- nicípio cearense, que integra uma universidade brasileira de cunho internacional, e seus fatores de risco. Trata-se de estudo observacional, analítico, transversal e de abordagem quantitativa, conduzido com crianças e suas mães no Centro de Saúde de Acarape e Posto de Saúde São Benedito (Acarape ­ CE), no período de fevereiro a julho de 2021. Após consentimento, as mães preencheram um questionário, seguido de avaliação do cresci- mento e desenvolvimento das crianças. Os dados obtidos foram analisados. Das 70 crian- ças, 50,00% (n = 17) e 51,43% (n = 18) dos meninos e meninas tinham baixa estatura para idade, respectivamente. Para o desenvolvimento psicossocial, dos 284 testes condu- zidos, 86,27% (n = 245) foram realizados em plenitude pelas crianças. Observou-se as- sociação significativa entre a gestante ter concebido o filho com, no mínimo, 9 meses de período gestacional e esse apresentar relação Peso/Idade adequada e Estatura/Idade ina- dequada. Houve associação significativa entre a criança não ingerir refresco em pó e apre- sentar relação Peso/Idade adequada. Conclui-se que as crianças tinham idade gestacional adequada e apresentavam estado nutricional apropriado, apesar da baixa estatura para idade. Manifestavam desenvolvimento psicossocial, de linguagem e físico normais. Sobre os fatores de risco, esses envolveram os de cunho materno e o consumo de alimentos cariogênicos.

Risk factors, including maternal ones, interfere with child growth and de- velopment. In this sense, knowledge of these factors and adequate evaluation of these processes are necessary to articulate preventive strategies for future disorders. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the growth and development of children seen in childcare con- sultations in primary health units in Ceará, part of a Brazilian university of international character, and their risk factors. This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, conducted with children and their mothers at the Acarape Health Center and São Benedito Health Center (Acarape ­ CE), from February to July 2021. After consent, the mothers completed a questionnaire, followed by an assessment of the children's growth and development. The data obtained were analyzed. Of the 70 children, 50.00% (n = 17) and 51.43% (n = 18) of the boys and girls were short for their age, respectively. Of the 284 tests conducted for psychosocial development, 86.27% (n = 245) were entirely performed by the children. A significant association was observed between the pregnant woman having conceived her child at least nine months of gestation and having an adequate Weight/Age and Height/Age ratio. There was a significant asso- ciation between the child not ingesting powdered soft drinks and having an appropriate Weight/Age ratio. It was concluded that the children had an adequate gestational age and had an appropriate nutritional status, despite their low height for their age. They showed normal psychosocial, language, and physical development. The risk factors involved those of mother nature and the consumption of cariogenic foods.

Los factores de riesgo, incluidos los maternos, interfieren en el crecimiento y desarrollo infantil. En este sentido, el conocimiento de estos factores y la evaluación adecuada de estos procesos son necesarios para articular estrategias preventivas de futu- ros trastornos. Así, el estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el crecimiento y desarrollo de niños atendidos en consultas de puericultura en unidades básicas de salud de un muni- cipio de Ceará, que forma parte de una universidad brasileña de carácter internacional, y sus factores de riesgo. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico, transversal, con enfoque cuantitativo, realizado con niños y sus madres en el Centro de Salud de Acarape y el Centro de Salud São Benedito (Acarape ­ CE), de febrero a julio de 2021. Después del consentimiento, las madres completaron un cuestionario, seguido de una evaluación del crecimiento y desarrollo de los niños. Los datos obtenidos fueron analizados. De los 70 niños, el 50,00% (n = 17) y el 51,43% (n = 18) de los niños y niñas eran bajos para su edad, respectivamente. Para el desarrollo psicosocial, de las 284 pruebas realizadas, el 86,27% (n = 245) fueron realizadas íntegramente por los niños. Se observó una asociación significativa entre la gestante haber concebido a su hijo con al menos 9 meses de gesta- ción y tener una adecuada relación Peso/Edad y Talla/Edad. Hubo asociación significativa entre el niño que no ingiere gaseosas en polvo y presentar una adecuada relación Peso/Edad. Se concluyó que los niños tenían una edad gestacional adecuada y un estado nutricional adecuado, a pesar de su baja talla para su edad. Presentaron un desarrollo psi- cosocial, lingüístico y físico normal. En cuanto a los factores de riesgo, estos involucraron los de naturaleza materna y el consumo de alimentos cariogénicos.

Pacientes hipertensos e diabéticos atendidos em ambiente hospitalar e maternidade: dos fatores sociodemográficos e econômicos aos clínicos e relacionados à saúde bucal / Hypertensive and diabetic patients assisted in a hospital and maternity environment: from sociodemographic and economic factors to clinical and oral health-related factors / Pacientes hipertensos y diabéticos atendidos en un entorno hospitalario y de maternidad: de los factores sociodemográficos y económicos a los factores clínicos y relacionados con la salud bucodental

O estudo objetivou determinar as características e associações entre os fatores sociodemográficos, econômicos, clínicos e relacionados à saúde bucal de hipertensos e diabéticos atendidos em hospital e maternidade de um município cearense. Trata-se de estudo observacional analítico transversal e de abordagem quantitativa realizado com pacientes hipertensos e diabéticos atendidos em hospital e maternidade do município de Redenção - CE, no período de dezembro de 2019 a fevereiro de 2020. Após consentimento, aplicou-se um questionário, abordando desde a presença e história clínica de Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica (HAS) e Diabetes Mellitus (DM) aos aspectos relacionados à saúde bucal e consumo de alimentos cariogênicos. Em seguida, os participantes foram submetidos à verificação da pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados. Dos 42 participantes, 73,80% tinham história familiar de HAS, 92,85% desconheciam as doenças bucais e 73,80% não sabiam como preveni-las. Observou-se associação significativa entre ser participante que não admitia a influência da HAS e DM sobre a saúde bucal e não ser acompanhado pelo odontólogo, assim como ser hipertenso e/ou diabético com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos e conhecer os meios preventivos de doenças bucais. Conclui-se que os pacientes apresentavam HAS e DM controladas, desconheciam as doenças bucais e não acreditavam na influência da HAS e DM sobre a saúde bucal, apesar da consciência quanto à interferência da saúde oral sobre a saúde geral.

study aimed to determine the characteristics and associations between sociodemographic, economic, clinical, and oral health-related factors of hypertensive and diabetic patients treated at a hospital and maternity hospital in a municipality in Ceará. This is a cross-sectional analytical observational study with a quantitative approach carried out with hypertensive and diabetic patients treated at a hospital and maternity hospital in Redenção - CE, from December 2019 to February 2020. After consent, a questionnaire was applied, ranging from the presence and clinical history of Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) to aspects of oral health and consumption of cariogenic foods. Then, the participants underwent verification of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Data were tabulated and analyzed. Of the 42 participants, 73.80% had a family history of SAH, 92.85% were unaware of oral diseases, and 73.80% did not know how to prevent them. A significant association was observed between being a participant who did not admit the influence of SAH and/or DM on oral health and not being accompanied by a dentist, as well as being hypertensive and diabetic aged 60 years or older and knowing the preventive means of oral diseases. It was concluded that the patients who had controlled SAH and DM were unaware of oral diseases and did not believe in the influence of SAH and DM on oral health, despite being aware of the interference of oral health on general health.

El estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar las características y asociaciones entre factores sociodemográficos, económicos, clínicos y relacionados a la salud bucal de pacientes hipertensos y diabéticos atendidos en un hospital y maternidad de un municipio de Ceará. Se trata de un estudio observacional analítico transversal con abordaje cuantitativo realizado con pacientes hipertensos y diabéticos atendidos en un hospital y maternidad de Redenção - CE, de diciembre de 2019 a febrero de 2020. Tras el consentimiento, se aplicó un cuestionario que abarcaba desde la presencia e historia clínica de Hipertensión Arterial Sistémica (HAS) y Diabetes Mellitus (DM) hasta aspectos de salud bucal y consumo de alimentos cariogénicos. A continuación, los participantes se sometieron a la verificación de la presión arterial sistólica y diastólica. Los datos se tabularon y analizaron. De los 42 participantes, el 73,80% tenía antecedentes familiares de HSA, el 92,85% desconocía las enfermedades bucodentales y el 73,80% no sabía cómo prevenirlas. Se observó una asociación significativa entre ser un participante que no admitía la influencia de la HSA y/o la DM en la salud bucodental y no estar acompañado por un dentista, así como ser hipertenso y diabético de 60 años o más y conocer los medios preventivos de las enfermedades bucodentales. Se concluyó que los pacientes que tenían controlada la HSA y la DM desconocían las enfermedades bucodentales y no creían en la influencia de la HSA y la DM en la salud bucodental, a pesar de ser conscientes de la interferencia de la salud bucodental en la salud general.

Perfil farmacoterapêutico de pacientes com insuficiência renal crônica submetidos à hemodiálise em um centro de referência do estado do Ceará / Pharmacotherapeutical profile of patients with chronic kidney failure submitted to hemodialysis in a reference center in the state of Ceará / Perfil farmacoterapéutico de pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica sometidos a hemodiálisis en un centro de referencia del estado de Ceará

O regime terapêutico hemodialítico engloba alterações no cotidiano do paciente pacientes com Doença Renal Crônica (DRC) que estão relacionadas às características do tratamento. Este estudo teve como objetivo traçar o perfil farmacoterapêutico de pacientes em tratamento hemodialítico em uma unidade de referência do estado do Ceará (Hospital e Maternidade Divina Providência de Russas - HMDPR). Tratou-se de um estudo de natureza descritiva, transversal, com análises quantitativas e qualitativas de informações contidas em prontuários. Foram coletadas variáveis socioepidemiológicas, clínicas e as prescrições farmacológicas registradas no período de janeiro a julho de 2020. O estudo avaliou 161 pacientes em terapia renal substitutiva (TRS) e grande parte destes foram do sexo masculino (63,35%), idade média de 53,89 anos e maioria com idade entre 35-44 anos (22,98%). Os Anti-hipertensivos destacaram-se como de maior frequência (15,99%), sendo que 50,94% dos pacientes utilizam 6 a 10 diferentes fármacos concomitantes. Em relação a terapêutica adjuvante à TRS, as principais classes foram os antianêmicos seguida pelos suplementos vitamínicos e mineral. Os dados demonstram que o paciente com DRC necessita de uma atenção diferenciada em sua farmacoterapia, demostrando a importância do profissional farmacêutico junto a equipe multidisciplinar.

The hemodialysis treatment regimen includes changes in the daily life of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) that are related to the characteristics of the treatment. This study aimed to outline the pharmacotherapeutic profile of patients undergoing hemodialysis in a referral unit in the state of Ceará (Providence Divine Hospital and Maternity Hospital of Russas - HMDPR). It was a study a descriptive, cross- sectional study, with quantitative and qualitative analysis of information contained in the medical records. Both socio-epidemiological variables, clinical were collected, and the pharmacological prescriptions recorded from January to July 2020. The study evaluated 161 patients on renal replacement therapy (RRT) and most of them were male (63.35%), mean age 53.89 years and most aged 35-44 years (22.98%). Antihypertensive drugs stood out as the most frequent (15.99%), with 50.94% of patients using 6 to 10 different concomitant drugs. Regarding adjunctive therapy to RRT, the main classes were antianemic followed by vitamin and mineral supplements. The data demonstrate that the patient with CKD needs differentiated attention in his pharmacotherapy, demonstrating the importance of the pharmaceutical professional in the multidisciplinary team.

El régimen terapéutico hemodialítico implica cambios en el estilo de vida de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) que están relacionados con las características del tratamiento. El objetivo de este estudio fue trazar el perfil farmacoterapéutico de pacientes en tratamiento hemodialítico en una unidad de referencia del estado de Ceará (Hospital y Maternidad Divina Providencia de Russas - HMDPR). Este es un estudio descriptivo, transversal, con análisis cuantitativos y cualitativos de la información contenida en los registros médicos. Se recolectaron variables socioepidemiológicas, clínicas y prescripciones farmacológicas registradas en el período de enero a julio de 2020. Se evaluaron 161 pacientes en terapia renal sustitutiva (TRS) y la mayoría de ellos eran hombres (63,35%), con una edad promedio de 53,89 años y la mayoría con edades entre 35 y 44 años (22,98%). Los antihipertensivos fueron los más frecuentes (15,99%), y el 50,94% de los pacientes usaban de 6 a 10 fármacos diferentes concomitantes. En cuanto a la terapia adyuvante a la TRS, las principales clases fueron los antianémicos seguidos por los suplementos vitamínicos y minerales. Los datos muestran que el paciente con ERC necesita una atención diferenciada en su farmacoterapia, demostrando la importancia del profesional farmacéutico en el equipo multidisciplinario.

O impacto da pandemia da Covid-19 na saúde mental de estudantes universitários / The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health of university students / El impacto de la pandemia de Covid-19 en la salud mental de los estudiantes universitarios

A pandemia pelo SARS-CoV-2 é um dos maiores desafios sanitários em escala global. Devido estado de emergência, uma série de medidas de controle e prevenção foram adotadas, como distanciamento social e redução das reuniões públicas. Nesse cenário, buscou-se avaliar a saúde mental de estudantes de uma instituição privada de Ensino Superior diante da pandemia. Esta pesquisa trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo desenvolvido na Faculdade do Vale do Jaguaribe, localizada em Aracati-CE. A coleta de dados ocorreu de dezembro de 2020 a fevereiro de 2021, utilizando formulário eletrônico contendo variáveis sociodemográficas, epidemiológicas e relativas aos diferentes aspectos da saúde mental do estudante frente a pandemia da COVID-19. A análise foi baseada no cálculo de frequências absolutas e relativas das variáveis além de medidas de tendência central e dispersão. Dos 333 discentes que participaram do estudo, a média de idade foi 25, com variação entre 18 e 56 anos, sendo maioria do sexo feminino (72,7%), autodenominação de cor/etnia parda (72,7%) e não estarem trabalhando (53,8%). A taxa de positividade entre os graduandos para COVID-19 foi de 9% (30). Ao serem questionados sobre como a pandemia alterou seus níveis de estresse ou saúde mental, 75,5% responderam que houve piora. Dentre os sintomas mais relatados no período da quarentena, estavam medo e ansiedade (ambos com 74,2%), seguidos por insegurança (69,7%). Baseados nos achados deste estudo, recomenda-se a incorporação de ações multiprofissionais na atenção aos estudantes dentro da academia. Sugere-se a implantação de um serviço qualificado buscando desenvolver um olhar holístico para os discentes.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has presented itself as one of the greatest health challenges on a global scale. Given the state of public health emergency, a series of control and prevention measures have been adopted, such as social distancing and reduction of public meetings, as in universities. Faced with this scenario, we sought to evaluate the mental health of students from a private institution of Higher Education in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this research was a descriptive cross-sectional study developed at the Faculdade do Vale do Jaguaribe, located in the City of Aracati- CE. Data collection occurred from December 2020 to February 2021, using an electronic form containing sociodemographic and epidemiological variables, as well as variables related to the repercussions in different aspects of the student's mental health when facing the pandemic of COVID-19. The analysis was based on the calculation of absolute and relative frequencies of the variables, as well as measures of central tendency and dispersion. Of the 333 students who participated in the study, the mean age was 25 years, with ages ranging from 18 to 56 years, the majority being female (72.7%), self- denominated as Brown (72.7%), not working when answering the form (53.8%). The positivity rate among undergraduates for COVID-19 was 9% (30/333). When asked how the pandemic altered their stress levels or mental health, 75.5% responded that it had worsened. Among the symptoms most reported by students during the quarantine period were fear and anxiety (both 74.2%), followed by insecurity (69.7%). It is suggested the implementation of a qualified approach service seeking to develop a holistic look for the students.

La pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 es uno de los mayores desafíos sanitarios a escala global. Debido al estado de emergencia, se han adoptado una serie de medidas de control y prevención, como el distanciamiento social y la reducción de reuniones públicas. En este escenario, se buscó evaluar la salud mental de los estudiantes de una institución privada de educación superior frente a la pandemia. Esta investigación es un estudio descriptivo transversal desarrollado en la Facultad de Valle de Jaguaribe, ubicada en Aracati-CE. La recopilación de datos se llevó a cabo de diciembre de 2020 a febrero de 2021, utilizando un formulario electrónico que contiene variables sociodemográficas, epidemiológicas y relacionadas con los diferentes aspectos de la salud mental del estudiante frente a la pandemia de COVID-19. El análisis se basó en el cálculo de frecuencias absolutas y relativas de las variables, además de medidas de tendencia central y dispersión. De los 333 estudiantes que participaron en el estudio, la media de edad fue de 25 años, con variación entre 18 y 56 años, siendo la mayoría del sexo femenino (72,7%), autodenominación de la raza / etnia morena (72,7%) y no trabajando (53,8%). La tasa de positividad entre los estudiantes de pregrado para COVID-19 fue del 9% (30). Cuando se les preguntó cómo la pandemia había alterado su nivel de estrés o salud mental, el 75,5% respondió que había empeorado. Entre los síntomas más comunes durante el período de cuarentena, se encontraban el miedo y la ansiedad (ambos con un 74,2%), seguidos de la inseguridad (69,7%). Basados en los resultados de este estudio, se recomienda la incorporación de acciones multiprofesionales en la atención a los estudiantes dentro de la academia. Se sugiere la implementación de un servicio calificado que busque desarrollar una mirada holística hacia los estudiantes.

Determinantes sociais de saúde de crianças em consulta de puericultura: das condições socioeconômicas aos aspectos relacionados à saúde bucal / Social determinants of health of children in child care consultation: from socioeconomic conditions to aspects related to oral health / Determinantes sociales de la salud de los niños en la consulta infantil: de las condiciones socioeconómicas a los aspectos relacionados con la salud bucal

A imaturidade do sistema imunológico, associado a Determinantes Sociais de Saúde (DSS), promove doenças na infância. Especificamente, na cavidade oral, os DSS, representados pelo consumo elevado de açúcar, limitado acesso aos serviços de saúde e deficiência na higiene bucal, favorecem transtornos locais e sistêmicos. Assim, o estudo objetivou associar os DSS, no contexto das condições socioeconômicas, do acompanhamento pelo serviço de saúde e dos aspectos relacionados à saúde bucal de crianças atendidas em Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS) de um município cearense. Trata-se de estudo observacional, analítico, transversal e de abordagem quantitativa, conduzido com crianças e suas mães em Acarape - CE. Após consentimento, essas preencheram um questionário. Os dados foram analisados. Das 70 mães, 87,14% e 90,00% tinham idade inferior ou igual a 30 anos e renda de até um salário mínimo, respectivamente. Das 70 crianças, 87,14% tinham seus dentes/gengiva higienizados por seus pais ou responsável. Do total, 94,29% nunca se submeteram a atendimento odontológico. Observou-se associação significativa entre a mãe ter escolaridade superior ao ensino fundamental incompleto e higienizar os dentes/gengiva do filho com escova dental e dentifrício. Constatou-se associação significativa entre a criança ingerir bolacha doce/recheada, não consumir refrigerante e usar escova dental e dentifrício na higienização oral. Conclui-se que as crianças eram acompanhadas nas UBS regularmente; no entanto, esse serviço não esteve relacionado ao atendimento odontológico. Apesar da ausência desse tipo de acompanhamento e do consumo de alimentos cariogênicos, as mães se preocupavam com a saúde bucal das crianças, higienizando a cavidade oral diariamente, com meios adequados.

The immaturity of the immune system, associated with Social Determi- nants of Health (SDH), promotes diseases in childhood. Specifically, in the oral cavity, SDH, represented by high sugar consumption, limited access to health services, and poor oral hygiene, favors local and systemic disorders. Thus, the study aimed to associate the SDH, in the context of socioeconomic conditions, monitoring by the health service and aspects related to children's oral health assisted in Basic Health Units (BHU) of a muni- cipality in Ceará. This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study with a quan- titative approach conducted with children and their mothers in Acarape - CE. After con- sent, they filled out a questionnaire. Data were analyzed. Of the 70 mothers, 87.14% and 90.00% were aged less than or equal to 30 years and had income up to one minimum wage, respectively. Of the 70 children, 87.14% had their teeth/gums cleaned by their pa- rents or guardian. Of the total, 94.29% never underwent dental care. There was a signifi- cant association between the mother having higher education than incomplete elementary school and cleaning the child's teeth/gums with a toothbrush and toothpaste. A significant association was found between the child eating sweet/stuffed biscuits, not consuming soft drink, and using a toothbrush and dentifrice for oral hygiene. It is concluded that the chil- dren were regularly monitored at the BHU; however, this service was not related to dental care. Despite the absence of this type of follow-up and the consumption of cariogenic foods, the mothers were concerned about their children's oral health, cleaning the oral cavity daily with adequate means.

La inmadurez del sistema inmunológico, asociada a los Determinantes So- ciales de la Salud (DSS), promueve enfermedades en la infancia. Específicamente, en la cavidad bucal, los DSS, representados por el alto consumo de azúcar, el acceso limitado a los servicios de salud y la mala higiene bucal, favorecen los trastornos locales y sisté- micos. Así, el estudio tuvo como objetivo asociar el DSS, en el contexto de las condicio- nes socioeconómicas, el seguimiento por el servicio de salud y los aspectos relacionados con la salud bucal de los niños atendidos en las Unidades Básicas de Salud (UBS) de un municipio de Ceará. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico, transversal con enfo- que cuantitativo, realizado con niños y sus madres en Acarape ­ CE. Después del consen- timiento, completaron un cuestionario. Los datos fueron analizados. De las 70 madres, 87,14% y 90,00% tenían edad menor o igual a 30 años e ingresos hasta un salario mínimo, respectivamente. De los 70 niños, al 87,14% se les limpió los dientes/encías por sus pa- dres o tutores. Del total, el 94,29% nunca realizó atención odontológica. Hubo una aso- ciación significativa entre la madre con educación superior a la primaria incompleta y la limpieza de los dientes/encías del niño con cepillo y pasta dental. Se encontró una asoci- ación significativa entre el niño que come galletas dulces/rellenas, no consume gaseosas y usa cepillo de dientes y dentífrico para la higiene bucal. Se concluyó que los niños eran monitoreados periódicamente en la UBS; sin embargo, este servicio no estaba relacionado con el cuidado dental. A pesar de la ausencia de este tipo de seguimiento y del consumo de alimentos cariogénicos, las madres se preocupan por la salud bucal de sus hijos, reali- zando la limpieza de la cavidad bucal diariamente, con medios adecuados.

Fatores que predispõem o uso inadequado de insulinas em diabéticos em uma unidade de saúde no município de Jaguaruana-Ceará / Factors that predispose to the inappropriate use of insulin in diabetics in a health unit in the city of Jaguaruana- Ceará / Factores que predisponen al uso inadecuado de insulina en diabéticos de una unidad de salud de la ciudad de Jaguaruana-Ceará

Introdução: O diabetes mellitus é um distúrbio metabólico crônico que afeta grande parcela da população mundial, no Brasil o número de diabéticos vem crescendo significativamente com o passar dos anos. A qualidade de vida destes pacientes está intimamente relacionada ao tratamento adequado que pode reduzir as complicações decorrentes da doença. O estudo teve como objetivo identificar dificuldades no uso de insulinas em pacientes da unidade de saúde do município de Jaguaruana-CE que possam estar relacionados a falhas no tratamento. Métodos: Tratou-se de uma análise do tipo descritivo, transversal e observacional com uma abordagem quantitativa, o questionário foi aplicado aos pacientes no momento da consulta na Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). A pesquisa ocorreu entre os meses de setembro a outubro de 2022 com mulheres e homens insulinodependentes acima de 18 anos. Resultados: Os dados mostraram maior prevalência de mulheres, 20 (67%), a maior faixa etária foi acima de 40 anos, 19 (63%) e a renda familiar prevaleceu de 1 à 2 salários mínimos, 14 (47%). O profissional de prestou maior orientação quanto ao uso da insulina foi o enfermeiro, citado por 12 (40%) pacientes, 20 (67%) relataram armazenar a insulina na porta da geladeira, 22 (74%) relataram desconhecer o motivo das aplicações dolorosas e 9 (30%) confirmam perder ou pular uma das aplicações diárias. Conclusão: Nota-se, portanto, a necessidade da atuação do farmacêutico na saúde da família, na avaliação e orientação quanto ao uso correto das insulinas, garantindo assim o uso racional e com maior eficácia.

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects a large portion of the world population. In Brazil, the number of diabetics has been growing significantly over the years. The quality of life of these patients is closely related to adequate treatment that can reduce the complications arising from the disease. This study aimed to identify difficulties in the use of insulin in patients at the health care facility in the city of Jaguaruana-CE that may be related to treatment failure. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional and observational analysis with a quantitative approach, the questionnaire was applied to patients at the time of consultation in the Basic Health Unit (BHU). The research occurred between the months of September to October 2022 with insulin-dependent women and men over 18 years. Results: The data showed higher prevalence of women, 20 (67%), the highest age group was above 40 years, 19 (63%) and family income prevailed from 1 to 2 minimum wages, 14 (47%). The professional who provided the most orientation regarding insulin use was the nurse, mentioned by 12 (40%) patients, 20 (67%) reported storing insulin in the refrigerator door, 22 (74%) reported not knowing the reason for the painful applications, and 9 (30%) confirmed missing or skipping one of the daily applications. Conclusion: Therefore, it is noted the need for the role of the pharmacist in family health, in the evaluation and guidance on the correct use of insulin, thus ensuring the rational use and with greater efficacy.

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus es un trastorno metabólico crónico que afecta a gran parte de la población mundial, en Brasil el número de diabéticos viene creciendo significativamente a lo largo de los años. A qualidade de vida destes pacientes está estreitamente relacionada com um tratamento adequado que permita reduzir as complicações decorrentes da doença. O estudo teve como objetivo identificar dificuldades no uso de insulinas em pacientes da unidade de saúde do município de Jaguaruana-CE que possam estar relacionadas a falhas no tratamento. Método: Se trató de un análisis descriptivo, transversal y observacional con abordaje cuantitativo, el cuestionario fue aplicado a los pacientes en el momento de la consulta en la Unidad Básica de Salud (UBS). La investigación ocurrió entre los meses de septiembre a octubre de 2022 con mujeres y hombres insulinodependientes mayores de 18 años. Resultados: Los datos mostraron mayor prevalencia de mujeres, 20 (67%), el grupo de mayor edad fue superior a 40 años, 19 (63%) y la renta familiar prevaleció de 1 a 2 salarios mínimos, 14 (47%). El profesional que más orientó sobre el uso de la insulina fue la enfermera, mencionada por 12 (40%) pacientes, 20 (67%) relataron haber guardado la insulina en la puerta del refrigerador, 22 (74%) relataron no saber el motivo de las aplicaciones dolorosas y 9 (30%) confirmaron haber omitido o saltado una de las aplicaciones diarias. Conclusión: Se constata, por lo tanto, la necesidad del papel del farmacéutico en la salud familiar, en la evaluación y orientación en cuanto al uso correcto de las insulinas, garantizando así el uso racional y con mayor eficacia.

Perfil sociodemográfico e laboratorial dos pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise em um centro de referência do Estado do Ceará / Sociodemographic and laboratory profile of patients undergoing hemodialysis in a reference center in the State of Ceará / Perfil sociodemográfico y de laboratorio de dos pacientes sometidos a hemodiálisis en un centro de referencia del Estado de Ceará

A Doença Renal Crônica (DRC) é uma importante redução da função renal que causa alterações no metabolismo dos indivíduos. Para acompanhar a progressão da DRC e prevenir possíveis complicações, foi realizada uma pesquisa para avaliar o perfil sociodemográfico, bioquímico e hematológico de pacientes com Insuficiência Renal Crônica (IRC) submetidos a hemodiálise. Esta pesquisa foi quantitativa, descritiva e transversal de caráter retrospectivo, realizada por meio da análise de dados secundários contidos nos prontuários dos pacientes. A coleta de dados ocorreu no Centro de Hemodiálise da cidade de Russas, no Ceará. A amostra foi constituída por 161 pacientes com DRC, sendo 63,35% do sexo masculino e 85,71% pardos, com uma idade média de 54,39 anos. Desses, 63,97% tinham entre 2 e 10 anos de tratamento e 57,76% possuíam ensino fundamental incompleto. 19,25% residiam em Russas. Resultados: Após a hemodiálise, os resultados mostraram 44 mg/dL de Ureia, 48,44% dos pacientes com valores normais. A hemoglobina e hematócrito médios foram 11,8 g/dL e 33,7%, respectivamente, sendo que 63,35% tiveram valores reduzidos. 85,10% dos pacientes tiveram contagem de plaquetas normal, 72,04% níveis adequados de ferro e albumina, 52,79% tiveram níveis elevados de ferritina, 23,61% redução de transferrina e níveis lipídicos satisfatórios. 79,50% apresentaram níveis séricos de potássio dentro da normalidade, 12,42% de fósforo acima do normal, 85,09% de cálcio dentro dos valores normais, 39,13% de PTHi normais e 86,33% de glicose dentro dos valores considerados normais. Com base nos resultados, concluiu-se que todos os pacientes em tratamento hemodialítico apresentam diversas alterações em decorrência da DRC e do próprio processo de tratamento. Portanto, a realização de exames para avaliar ou monitorar possíveis complicações da IRC é essencial para criar estratégias e intervenções mais eficazes, que melhorem a assistência prestada a esses pacientes e, consequentemente, da qualidade e expectativa de vida dos mesmos.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is an important reduction in kidney function that causes changes in the metabolism of individuals. To monitor the progression of CKD and prevent possible complications, a survey was carried out to assess the sociodemographic, biochemical and hematological profile of patients with Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) undergoing hemodialysis. This research was quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional with a retrospective character, carried out through the analysis of secondary data contained in the patients' medical records. Data collection took place at the Hemodialysis Center in the city of Russas, Ceará. The sample consisted of 161 patients with CKD, 63.35% male and 85.71% brown, with an average age of 54.39 years. Of these, 63.97% had between 2 and 10 years of treatment and 57.76% had incomplete primary education. 19.25% resided in Russas. Results: After hemodialysis, the results showed 44 mg/dL of Urea, 48.44% of patients with normal values. Average hemoglobin and hematocrit were 11.8 g/dL and 33.7%, respectively, with 63.35% having reduced values. 85.10% of the patients had normal platelet counts, 72.04% had adequate levels of iron and albumin, 52.79% had high levels of ferritin, 23.61% had reduced transferrin and satisfactory lipid levels. 79.50% had serum levels of potassium within the normal range, 12.42% of phosphorus above normal, 85.09% of calcium within normal values, 39.13% of PTHi normal and 86.33% of glucose within the values considered normal. Based on the results, it was concluded that all patients on hemodialysis have several changes due to CKD and the treatment process itself. Therefore, carrying out tests to assess or monitor possible complications of CRF is essential to create more effective strategies and interventions that improve the care provided to these patients and, consequently, their quality and life expectancy.

La Enfermedad Renal Crónica (ERC) es una reducción importante de la función renal que provoca cambios en el metabolismo de los individuos. Para monitorizar la evolución de la ERC y prevenir posibles complicaciones, se realizó una encuesta para evaluar el perfil sociodemográfico, bioquímico y hematológico de los pacientes con Insuficiencia Renal Crónica (IRC) en hemodiálisis. Esta investigación fue cuantitativa, descriptiva y transversal con carácter retrospectivo, realizada a través del análisis de datos secundarios contenidos en las historias clínicas de los pacientes. La recolección de datos ocurrió en el Centro de Hemodiálisis de la ciudad de Russas, Ceará. La muestra estuvo constituida por 161 pacientes con ERC, 63,35% del sexo masculino y 85,71% pardos, con una edad media de 54,39 años. De estos, 63,97% tenían entre 2 y 10 años de tratamiento y 57,76% tenían primaria incompleta. El 19,25% residía en Russas. Resultados: Posterior a la hemodiálisis los resultados arrojaron 44 mg/dL de Urea, 48,44% de los pacientes con valores normales. La hemoglobina y el hematocrito medios fueron 11,8 g/dl y 33,7 %, respectivamente, con un 63,35 % con valores reducidos. El 85,10% de los pacientes presentaba plaquetas normales, el 72,04% presentaba niveles adecuados de hierro y albúmina, el 52,79% presentaba niveles elevados de ferritina, el 23,61% presentaba transferrina reducida y niveles satisfactorios de lípidos. El 79,50% presentaba niveles séricos de potasio dentro de la normalidad, el 12,42% de fósforo por encima de lo normal, el 85,09% de calcio dentro de los valores normales, el 39,13% de PTHi normal y el 86,33% de glucosa dentro de los valores considerados normales. Con base en los resultados, se concluyó que todos los pacientes en hemodiálisis tienen varios cambios debido a la ERC y al propio proceso de tratamiento. Por tanto, la realización de pruebas para evaluar o monitorizar las posibles complicaciones de la IRC es fundamental para crear estrategias e intervenciones más eficaces que mejoren la atención a estos pacientes y, en consecuencia, su calidad y esperanza de vida.

Análise de intoxicação por medicamentos / Analysis of drug intoxication / Análisis de intoxicaciones medicamentosas

Os Centros de Assistência Toxicológica possuem uma importância relevante na promoção, prevenção e controle de agravos à saúde em casos de intoxicação, pois fornece um serviço de orientação e atendimento especializado para lidar com essas situações e para minimizar os prejuízos causados pelos agentes tóxicos. Diante disso, o objetivo do estudo foi analisar o perfil epidemiológico de intoxicações por medicamento, no período de 2017 a 2021, no estado do Ceará. Este estudo está caracterizado como epidemiológico exploratório- descritivo, de abordagem quantitativa, em que serão analisados os dados secundários do registro de casos de intoxicações por medicamento, registrados no Sistema Nacional de Agravos de Notificação, entre os anos de 2017 e 2021. Os dados foram coletados no período de março a abril de 2022. As variáveis levantadas são faixa etária, sexo, circunstâncias das intoxicações, óbito. Nas análises epidemiológicas foi feito o cálculo dos registros de intoxicação por medicamentos coletados no SINAN-TABNET. Resultados: Os resultados desse estudo no período de 2017 a 2021 permitiram a identificação do perfil de intoxicações medicamentosas no Estado do Ceará. Observamos que dentre as variáveis estudadas houve uma prevalência do sexo feminino, faixa etária entre 20-39 anos, e dentre as circunstâncias demostradas, a tentativa de suicídio apresentou dados mais alarmantes. Conclusão: Verificamos a necessidade de medidas efetivas no combate ao uso incorreto dos medicamentos, com ações sociais para conscientizar a população para o uso racional dos medicamentos e orientação para os riscos apresentados por medicamentos devido seu abuso intencional ou não intencional, e uma reavaliação do perfil das pessoas com alta prevalência de intoxicações.

The Toxicological Assistance Centers are relevant in promoting, preven- tion, and control of health aggravations in cases of poisoning, as it provides a specialized guidance and assistance service to deal with such situations and to minimize the damage caused by toxic agents. Therefore, the aim of the study was to analyze the epidemiolog- ical profile of medication poisonings in the period from 2017 to 2021 in the state of Ceará. This study is characterized as an exploratory-descriptive epidemiological study, with a quantitative approach, in which secondary data from the record of drug poisoning cases, registered in the National System of Notifiable Diseases, registered in the years 2017 to 2021 will be analyzed. collected from March to April 2022. The variables are age group, sex, circumstances of poisoning, death. In the epidemiological analyses, the calculation of the records of intoxication by drugs collected in SINAN-TABNET was performed. Results: The results of this study in the period from 2017 to 2021 allowed the identification of the profile of drug poisoning in the State of Ceará. We observed that among the variables studied, there was a prevalence of females, the age group is 20-39 years, and among the circumstances, suicide attempt presented the most alarming data. Conclusion: We verified the need for effective measures to combat the misuse of medi- cine, with social actions to make the population aware about the rational use of medi- cines and guidance for the risks presented by medicines due to their intentional or unin- tentional abuse, and a reassessment of the profile of the people with a high prevalence of poisoning.

Los Centros de Asistencia Toxicológica son relevantes en la promoción, prevención y control de los agravamientos de la salud en casos de intoxicación, ya que proporciona un servicio especializado de orientación y asistencia para hacer frente a es- tas situaciones y minimizar los daños causados por los agentes tóxicos. Por lo tanto, el objetivo del estudio fue analizar el perfil epidemiológico de las intoxicaciones medica- mentosas en el período de 2017 a 2021 en el estado de Ceará. Este estudio se caracteriza por ser un estudio epidemiológico exploratorio-descriptivo, con enfoque cuantitativo, en el que se analizarán datos secundarios del registro de casos de intoxicación medicamentosa, inscritos en el Sistema Nacional de Enfermedades de Declaración Obli- gatoria, registrados en los años 2017 a 2021. recogidos de marzo a abril de 2022. Las variables son grupo de edad, sexo, circunstancias de la intoxicación, muerte. En los aná- lisis epidemiológicos se ha realizado el cálculo de los registros de intoxicaciones por drogas recogidos en SINAN-TABNET. Resultados: Los resultados de este estudio en el período de 2017 a 2021 permitieron identificar el perfil de las intoxicaciones por drogas en el Estado de Ceará. Observamos que entre las variables estudiadas, hubo una preva- lencia de fe- varones, el grupo de edad es de 20-39 años, y entre las circunstancias, el intento de suicidio pre-sentó los datos más alarmantes. Conclusiones: Verificamos la necesidad de medidas eficaces para combatir el uso indebido de medicamentos, con ac- ciones sociales de concienciación de la población sobre el uso racional de medicamentos y orientación sobre los riesgos que presentan los medicamentos por su abuso intencional o no intencional, y una reevaluación del perfil de las personas con alta prevalencia de intoxicaciones.

Oral administration of eucalyptol reduces cell migration and pain-like behavior in zymosan-induced arthritis mice

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease that utilizes nonbiologic and biologic drugs for appropriate disease management. However, high cost, adverse effects, reduced effectiveness, and risk of infection have stimulated the search for safer and more efficacious therapeutic strategies. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of eucalyptol in an experimental model of arthritis. Mice were administered zymosan or saline intra-articularly. One hour before the zymosan administration, the mice were treated with oral eucalyptol (200-400 mg/kg) and vehicle. Cell influx, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes were measured in joint exudates. Joint pain was assessed using paw-pressure tests. Orally administered eucalyptol (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly reduced cell influx, as well as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, when compared with the control. Eucalyptol at a dose of 400 mg/kg significantly reversed joint pain and demonstrated analgesic activity (60%); however, 200 mg/kg failed to alter joint pain. These results indicate that oral eucalyptol promotes anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity in mice subjected to zymosan-induced arthritis.

Tumor necrosis factor prevents Candida albicans biofilm formation.

Candida species are commensals but some develop biofilms in prosthetic materials and host surfaces that may represent up to 30% of deaths related to infections, particularly in immunosuppressed patients. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) exhibits a plethora of functions in host defense mechanisms whereas excessive release of TNF in inflammation promotes tissue damage. Cytokines released in an inflammatory milieu may influence the development of microorganisms either by promoting their growth or displaying antimicrobial activity. In protozoa, TNF may affect growth by coupling through a lectin-like domain, distinct from TNF receptors. TNF was also shown to interact with bacteria via a mechanism that does not involve classical TNF receptors. Using an in vitro C. albicans biofilm model, we show that TNF dose-dependently prevents biofilm development that is blocked by incubating TNF with N,N'-diacetylchitobiose, a major carbohydrate component of C. albicans cell wall. This finding represents a relevant and hitherto unknown mechanism that adds to the understanding of why TNF blockade is associated with opportunistic C. albicans infections.

Hylan G-F20 and galactomannan joint flares are associated to acute synovitis and release of inflammatory cytokines

Abstract Background: Injection of Hylan G-F20 (HY) into joints may provoke local flares, which mechanisms may involve reaction to protein contaminants. We have previously developed a protein-free saline-soluble galactomannan derived from guar gum (GM) that displays both analgesia and chondroprotection in experimental osteoarthritis (OA). We now demonstrate that both GM and Hylan G-F20 (HY) promote mild synovitis with cytokine release after intra-articular injection. Methods: Mice received 100 μg/25 μL GM or HY or saline into the knees. Joint pain was evaluated using von Frey test; cell influx, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and CXCL-1 (pg/mL) levels were assessed in joint lavage at 6 h. Synovia were excised for histopathology. Results: Neither GM nor HY after being given into mice knee joints induced pain albeit promoting mild cell influx into joint washings as well as mild synovitis at histology, with no damage to the underlying cartilage. HY but not GM promoted IL-1 release into mice joints. Both compounds induced IL-6 and CXCL-1 release. Conclusion: Intra-articular injection of HY or GM promote acute transient synovitis whilst not provoking detectable significant joint damage. Local administration of these polysaccharides induces acute intra-articular release of inflammatory cytokines, which may account for joint flares following viscosupplementation.(AU)