Effects of the juçara fruit (Euterpe edulis Martius) pulp and lyophilized extract on NRF2, KEAP1, SOD1, and GPX2 expression in human colorectal cancer cell lines

We investigated the effects of the juçara fruit (Euterpe edulis Martius) pulp and lyophilized extract on the expression of cytoprotective genes nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (NRF2), kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), superoxide dismutase (SOD1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX2) in human colorectal cancer cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2). Cells were cultured for 24 h in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium containing juçara fruit pulp (5, 10, or 50 mg/mL) or lyophilized extract (0.05, 0.1, or 0.5 mg/mL), and gene expression was quantified using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. All studied genes showed significant variation in gene expression among different concentrations of pulp or lyophilized extract. Overall, the expression of the selected genes decreased in both cell lines following exposure to the pulp or lyophilized extract in a dose-dependent manner for most of the concentrations studied. In summary, our study showed that the compounds in juçara fruit inhibited the expression of cytoprotective genes associated with the antioxidant response and that, although not cytotoxic at the concentrations studied, they could potentially block the activation of the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway.

Quality of life and functional capacity in depressive patients on hemodialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Depression is a common disorder in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and some data support its relationship with functional capacity and quality of life. However, to date, this has not been evaluated systematically or through meta-analysis. We sought to investigate the relationship of quality of life and functional capacity with depressive disorder in patients with CKD on hemodialysis. This systematic review considered studies published up to 2021 and included cross-sectional and cohort studies. PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and Cochrane (CENTRAL) databases were used to search for studies. The New Castle-Ottawa Quality Assessment scale was used to measure the quality of the studies. A total of 4,626 studies were found and, after applying the selection criteria, 16 studies (2,175 patients) remained for qualitative analysis and 10 for meta-analysis (1,484 patients). The physical component summary (MD=-6.563; 95%CI: −9.702 to −3.424) and mental component summary (MD=-18.760; 95%CI: −28.641 to −8.879) were lower in depressive patients, as in all Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36) domains. Only one study provided data regarding functional capacity, but it was not evaluated by the defined outcome measure. Twelve studies were classified as "moderate quality" (5 to 6 stars) and four were classified as "low-quality" (0 to 4 stars). This meta-analysis with CKD patients on hemodialysis showed a negative relationship between depression and quality of life, with worsening in all physical and mental domains of the SF-36 in depressed patients.

Effects of therapeutic ultrasound on the endothelial function of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by endothelial dysfunction that causes micro- and macrovascular complications. Low intensity therapeutic ultrasound (LITUS) may improve endothelial function, but its effects have not been investigated in these patients. The aim of our study was to compare the effects of pulsed (PUT) and continuous (CUT) waveforms of LITUS on the endothelium-dependent vasodilation of T2DM patients. The present randomized crossover trial had a sample of twenty-three patients (7 men) diagnosed with T2DM, 55.6 (±9.1) years old, with a body mass index of 28.6 (±3.3) kg/m2. All patients were randomized and submitted to different waveforms (Placebo, CUT, and PUT) of LITUS and the arterial endothelial function was evaluated. The LITUS of 1 MHz was applied in pulsed (PUT: 20% duty cycle, 0.08 W/cm2 SATA), continuous (CUT: 0.4 W/cm2 SPTA), and Placebo (equipment off) types of waves during 5 min on the brachial artery. Endothelial function was evaluated using the flow-mediated dilation (FMD) technique. PUT (mean difference 2.08%, 95% confidence interval 0.65 to 3.51) and CUT (mean difference 2.32%, 95% confidence interval 0.89 to 3.74) increased the %FMD compared to Placebo. In the effect size analysis, PUT (d=0.65) and CUT (d=0.65) waveforms presented moderate effects in the %FMD compared to Placebo. The vasodilator effect was similar in the different types of waves. Pulsed and continuous waveforms of LITUS of 1 MHz improved the arterial endothelial function in T2DM patients.

Diagnostic performance of a commercial ELISA used as a complementary test for bovine tuberculosis in two bovine herds with different disease status / Desempenho diagnóstico de um ELISA comercial usado como teste complementar para tuberculose bovina em dois rebanhos bovinos com diferentes estágios de controle da doença

Bovine tuberculosis is a worldwide spread zoonotic disease. Intradermal tuberculinizations are the most used diagnostic tests in the world. Serological tests can be an ancillary diagnosis for bovine tuberculosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the ELISA Mycobacterium Bovis Antibody Test Kit IDEXX ™ in infected herds, which were in different disease control stages. One hundred and twenty animals from two dairy herds of Minas Gerais state, Brazil, were subjected to the ELISA serological test and the comparative cervical tuberculin test (CCT). Diagnostic test parameters were estimated using Bayesian latent class models and concordance between tests estimated by the frequentist approach. The ELISA test presented lower sensitivity than CCT in both herds. Its sensitivity was higher in the herd in sanitation process. Specificity estimates were above 95% in both herds. Kappa index indicated low concordance or even disagreement between tests. According to the results, the ELISA IDEXX should not be used as substitution for CCT. The tests must not be associated in series. Parallel association increased diagnostic sensitivity in the herd which was in the process of sanitation.(AU)

A tuberculose bovina é uma zoonose de distribuição mundial cujos testes mais utilizados para o diagnóstico são as tuberculinizações intradérmicas, simples e compartivas. Contudo, testes sorológicos podem constituir diagnósticos auxiliares. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho diagnóstico do teste ELISA Mycobacterium Bovis Antibody Test Kit IDEXX ® em rebanhos bovinos infectados, que se encontravam em diferentes estágios de controle da doença. Cento e vinte animais de dois rebanhos leiteiros provenientes do estado de Minas Geais-Brasil foram submetidos ao ELISA e à tuberculinização cervical compartiva (TCC). Avaliou-se o desempenho dos testes por meio de modelos Bayesianos de classe latente e a concordância entre os eles, por meio de estatística frequentista. Uma maior sensibilidade do teste foi observada no rebanho previamente tuberculinizado. Em ambos os rebanhos o TCC foi mais sensível que o ELISA. Especificidade acima de 95% foi encontrada em ambos os rebanhos. Foram observadas baixa concordância ou mesmo discordância entre os testes. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, o teste ELISA-IDEXX não deve ser utilizado em substituição à TCC, tampouco devem ser associados em série. Houve aumento da sensibilidade quando os testes foram associados em paralelo no rebanho que já se encontrava em processo de saneamento.(AU)

Metabolic stress and reproductive features in post-partum goats supplemented for a long period with detoxified castor meal as the source of dietary nitrogen / Estresse metabólico e características reprodutivas em cabras pós-parto suplementadas por longo período com mamona desintoxicada como fonte de nitrogênio na dieta

This study evaluated the effect of detoxified castor meal on the reproductive performance, metabolic stress, milk production, and kid development in peripartum goats. The diet of the animals were with (DCM, n= 20) or without (WDCM, n= 21) detoxified castor meal during the entire gestation and until weaning, 60 days post-birth. No differences were observed in the gestation period, litter size, rate of multiple births, and mortality between the two groups. The postpartum plasma concentrations of progesterone remained below 1ng/mL in all animals, thus, confirming the absence of active corpora lutea. The thickness of sternum adipose tissue and loin area, levels of urea and cholesterol, milk production, and daily weight gain in the kids were low in the DCM group when compared to those in the WDCM group (P< 0.05). To conclude, the use of detoxified castor meal in peripartum goats resulted in lower level of performance in the kids because of reductions in the amount of milk received from their mothers during lactation. In addition, the diet containing detoxified castor meals was not efficient in recovering from the loss of stored body reserves able to initiate the recovery of the cyclic activity of the goats.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou o efeito da torta de mamona desintoxicada na reprodução, no estresse metabólico, na produção de leite e no desenvolvimento de cabritos no periparto de cabras. Um grupo foi alimentado com torta de mamona (DCM, n=20), e o outro (WDCM, n=21) não recebeu tal suplemento , durante a gestação até o desmame, 60 dias pós-parto. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no período de gestação, no número de cabritos, na taxa de partos múltiplos e na mortalidade entre os dois grupos. Em todos os animais, a concentração plasmática de progesterona ficou abaixo de 1ng/mL, confirmando a ausência de atividade lútea. A espessura da gordura subcutânea do esterno e da área de olho-de-lombo, a concentração de ureia e colesterol, a produção de leite e o ganho de peso dos cabritos foram menores no grupo DCM (P<0,05). Conclui-se que o uso de torta de mamona desintoxicada no periparto de cabra resultou em cabritos mais leves devido à redução na produção de leite das matrizes e as cabras não retornaram ao cio, pois não recuperaram a massa corporal.(AU)

Estado epiléptico refractario en UCIP. Experiencia en un hospital de la Provincia de Buenos Aires / Refractory status epilepticus in the PICU. Experience at a hospital in the Province of Buenos Aires

Introducción: El estado epiléptico (EE) es la emergencia neurológica más frecuente en pediatría. Los pacientes que no responden al tratamiento estándar con dosis adecuadas de benzodiacepinas seguido de una droga antiepiléptica aceptable son definidos como Estado epiléptico Refractario (ER). Objetivo: caracterizar la población de niños con EE que ingresan a UCIP y determinar qué factores son predictores de refractariedad en esta población. Métodos: Estudio de casos y controles, retrospectivo. Población: niños con EE internados en UCIP desde Febrero 2015 a Febrero 2017. Casos: Estado epiléptico Refractario (ER). Controles: Estado epiléptico No Refractario (ENR). Se calculó el Odds Ratio (OR) individual para las distintas variables en Med Calc. Resultados: Se internaron 35 pacientes de los cuales 12 fueron casos y 23 controles. Hubo fiebre en 77% de los pacientes. En el total de niños estudiados hubo 11% con antecedente de convulsión febril, 11% con antecedente de epilepsia y 9% con antecedente de malformación del SNC. Los niños con antecedente de convulsión febril tuvieron 2,5 veces mayor riesgo de ER (OR: 2,58; IC 95%: 1,17-5,68). Los niños con EE que tenían antecedentes de enfermedad neurológica previa presentaron riesgo de ER 2,6 veces mayor que el grupo control (OR 2,60; IC 95%: 1,24-5,42). Discusión: Dado el aumento en la mortalidad de los pacientes con ER sería importante disponer de más herramientas para predecir este desenlace e iniciar tratamiento oportuno. Resultaría útil entrenar a los padres de niños con antecedente de convulsión febril en la aplicación de medicación antiepiléptica prehospitalaria, esto podría prevenir la farmacorresistencia, el daño neurológico y las complicaciones que acarrea el ingreso a UCIP. (AU)

Introduction: Status epilepticus (SE) is the most common neurologic emergency in children. Patients that do not respond to standard treatment with adequate doses of benzodiazepines followed by an acceptable antiepileptic drug are defined as having refractory status epilepticus (RSE). Objective: To characterize the population of children with SE admitted to the PICU and to determine predictive factors for refractoriness in this population. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted. Population: Children with SE admitted to the PICU between February 2015 and February 2017. Cases: Refractory status pilepticus (RSE). Controls: Non-refractory status epilepticus (NRSE). Individual Odds Ratio (OR) was calculated for different variables using Med Calc. Results: 35 patients were admitted of whom 12 were cases and 23 controls. Overall, 77% of the patients had fever. Of all the children, 11% had a history of febrile seizures, 11% had history of epilepsy and 9% had a CNS malformation. Children with a history of febrile seizures had a 2.5-fold higher risk of developing RSE (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.17-5.68). Children with SE that had a history of neurologic disease had a 2.6-fold higher risk of developing RSE than controls (OR 2.60; 95% CI: 1.24-5.42). Discussion: Given the increased mortality in children with RSE, availability of tools to predict this outcome in order to initiate early treatment is important. It would be useful to train the parents of children with a history of febrile seizures in the prehospital administration of antiepileptic drugs as this may prevent pharmaco-resistance, neurologic damage, and complication related to PICU admission (AU)

Evaluación de reactantes de fase aguda como predictores de bacteriemia en niños con fiebre, leucemia aguda y linfoma / Evaluation of acute-phase reactants as predictors of bacteremia in children with fever, acute leukemia, and lymphoma

Introducción: Para predecir una infección en estadios tempranos en niños con cáncer se han evaluado marcadores como ESD, PCR y PCT. Objetivo: evaluar la precisión diagnóstica para bacteriemia de estos marcadores al ingreso en niños con fiebre y leucemia aguda (LA) o linfoma (L) internados entre 2013-2016. Métodos: estudio analítico retrospectivo. Revisión de historias clínicas. Se calcularon sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo y área bajo la curva ROC para cada marcador en MedCalc® V16.8.4. Se obtuvo autorización del Comité de Ética. Resultados:en total se internaron 31 niños con diagnóstico de LA y L, 19 presentaron fiebre y 12 no. Hubo 40 episodios de fiebre clasificados en 4 grupos: bacteriemia 14 (35%), infección documentada microbiológicamente 5 (12.5%), infección documentada clínicamente 2 (5%) y fiebre de origen desconocido 19 (47.5%). Los niveles de PCT fueron mayores en el grupo de bacteriemia registrando un valor promedio de 1,17ng/ mL (p: 0.045). El área bajo la curva ROC entre el grupo con y sin bacteriemia fue de 0.50 para ESD, 0.65 para PCR y 0.83 para PCT con S de 77.78%, E de 66.67%, VPP de 50% y VPN de 92.86%. Discusión: la PCT mostró ser el más eficaz que ESD y PCR para predecir bacteriemia. se deben realizar investigaciones con biomarcadores con el objeto de disminuir el uso inadecuado de antibióticos en pacientes con fiebre secundaria a enfermedad y acortar los tiempos de tratamiento en pacientes con infecciones adecuadamente resueltas mejorando ampliamente la calidad de vida en niños con cáncer (AU)

Introduction: To predict infection in early stages in children with cancer, markers such as ESR, CRP, and PCT have been evaluated. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic precision for bacteremia of these markers on admission of children with fever and acute leukemia (AL) or lymphoma (L) admitted between 2013- 2016. Methods: A retrospective analytical study. Review of the clinical records. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the ROC curve were calculated for each marker in MedCalc® V16.8.4. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee. Results: Overall, 31 children with AL and L were admitted, 19 of whom presented with fever and 12 did not. There were 40 episodes of fever classified into 4 groups: bacteremia 14 (35%), microbiologically documented infection 5 (12.5%), clinically documented infection 2 (5%), and fever of unknown etiology 19 (47.5%). PCT levels were higher in the group with bacteremia with a mean value of 1.17ng/mL (p:0.045). The area under the ROC curve between the groups with and without bacteremia was 0.50 for ESR, 0.65 for CRP, and 0.83 for PCT with a sensitivity of 77.78%, specificity of 66.67%, PPV of 50%, and NPV of 92.86%. Discussion: PCT showed a greater efficacy than ESD and CRP to predict bacteremia. Research on biomarkers should be conducted to reduce the inadequate use of antibiotics in patients with fever secondary to disease and to shorten treatment times in patients with adequately resolved infections, thereby improving quality of life in children with cancer (AU)

Where do we aspire to publish? A position paper on scientific communication in biochemistry and molecular biology

The scientific publication landscape is changing quickly, with an enormous increase in options and models. Articles can be published in a complex variety of journals that differ in their presentation format (online-only or in-print), editorial organizations that maintain them (commercial and/or society-based), editorial handling (academic or professional editors), editorial board composition (academic or professional), payment options to cover editorial costs (open access or pay-to-read), indexation, visibility, branding, and other aspects. Additionally, online submissions of non-revised versions of manuscripts prior to seeking publication in a peer-reviewed journal (a practice known as pre-printing) are a growing trend in biological sciences. In this changing landscape, researchers in biochemistry and molecular biology must re-think their priorities in terms of scientific output dissemination. The evaluation processes and institutional funding for scientific publications should also be revised accordingly. This article presents the results of discussions within the Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, on this subject.

Equilíbrio ácido-base e hidroeletrolítico em equinos submetidos à simulação de enduro FEI / Acid-base and hidroelectrolytic balance in horses undergoing FEI endurance ride simulation

Enduro é uma modalidade equestre que demanda alta exigência dos sistemas orgânicos para que seja mantida a homeostasia do organismo. Objetivou-se avaliar o equilíbrio ácido-base e hidroeletrolítico durante uma prova de enduro realizada por equinos FEI*. Nove equinos foram submetidos a três meses de treinamento e, ao final, realizou-se prova similar às competições oficiais de enduro equestre, com trajeto de 80km, dividido em quatro etapas (anéis). Avaliações clínicas e coletas de amostras sanguíneas para análise da concentração de lactato e variáveis hemogasométricas foram realizadas no início da prova, imediatamente após a chegada de cada anel e, após 15 e 30 minutos, uma, quatro, seis e 12 horas do término da prova. Apenas cinco animais concluíram a prova e, para análise estatística, foram utilizados somente os dados destes animais. Houve predomínio do metabolismo aeróbio durante a prova e os animais mostraram bom índice de recuperação. Os eletrólitos cloreto, sódio, potássio e cálcio tiveram sua concentração diminuída, enquanto o bicarbonato aumentou no transcorrer do exercício. Os valores de pH aumentaram em decorrência do desenvolvimento de alcalose mista, caracterizada por alcalose metabólica hipoclorêmica e alcalose respiratória. O bom desempenho dos animais foi atribuído à suficiente adaptação metabólica induzida pelo treinamento.(AU)

Endurance is an equestrian modality that demands high requirement of organic systems in order to maintain organism's homeostasis. This study aimed to evaluate hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balance during an endurance test performed by FEI* horses. Nine horses were subjected to three months of training and, at the end, performed a test similar to the official competitions of equestrian endurance, with 80 km of distance, divided into four stages. Clinical and blood samples were taken for analysis of lactate concentration and blood gas parameters before the start of the test, immediately after the arrival of each phase and, after 15, 30 minutes, 1, 4, 6 and 12 hours after the end of the race. Only five animals completed the race and the data from these animals were used for statistical analysis. There was predominance of aerobic metabolism and the horses showed a good recovery rate. The electrolytes chloride, sodium, potassium and calcium had their concentration decreased while bicarbonate increased with the course of the exercise. There was an increase in pH due to the development of mixed alkalosis, characterized by hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis and respiratory alkalosis. Good performance of the animals was attributed to sufficient metabolic adaptation induced by training.(AU)

Bloqueio do plexo braquial em um tamanduá-mirim (Tamandua tetradactyla) utilizando estimulador de nervos periféricos: relato de caso / Brachial plexus block in a tamanduá-mirim (Tamandua tetradactyla) using a peripheral nerve stimulator: Case report

Objetivou-se relatar a utilização do neurolocalizador para bloqueio do plexo braquial bilateral em tamanduá-mirim (Tamandua tetradactyla). O animal, pesando 5kg, atendido pelo Centro de Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres, foi encaminhado ao Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul para realização de exames complementares, sendo, posteriormente, encaminhado para cirurgia de osteossíntese de úmero e rádio/ulna esquerdo e colocação de fio de cerclagem em olécrano direito. O paciente foi pré-medicado com cetamina S (5mg/kg) + midazolam (0,15mg/kg), indução anestésica com propofol (5mg/kg) e manutenção anestésica com isoflurano, com o auxílio de máscara. Os parâmetros cardiovasculares e respiratórios foram monitorados durante todo o procedimento. Realizou-se o bloqueio do plexo braquial em ambos os membros utilizando-se estimulador de nervos periféricos. Os anestésicos locais empregados foram lidocaína 2% sem vasoconstritor (3mg/kg) + ropivacaína 0,75% sem vasoconstritor (1mg/kg). O bloqueio foi realizado primeiramente no membro torácico direito, e, após realização do procedimento cirúrgico, o mesmo bloqueio foi realizado no membro contralateral. O paciente teve recuperação tranquila ausente de vocalização e expressão álgica, e a soltura ocorreu após 120 dias.(AU)

The aim of this study was to report the use of the neurolocalizer for blocking the bilateral brachial plexus in tamanduá-mirin. The subject weighing 5kg was attended by the Center for the Rehabilitation of Wild Animals and referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul for complementary tests. Through the examinations, the need to perform humerus and left radius/ulna osteosynthesis and cerclagem placement on right olecranon was established. For surgery performance, the patient was pre-medicated with ketamine S (5mg/kg-1) associated to midazolam (0.15mg/kg-1) via intramuscular and intravenous propofol (5mg/kg-1) was used for induction. The anesthetic maintenance was performed with isoflurane, provided by an oxygen mask. Cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were monitored throughout the procedure. Brachial plexus block was performed in both limbs using peripheral nerve stimulator. The local anesthetics used were lidocaine without vasoconstrictor (3mg/kg-1) plus 0.75% ropivacaine without vasoconstrictor (1mg/kg-1). Blocking was first performed on the right thoracic limb followed by the surgical procedure. The same blockage was performed on the contralateral limb. The patient had a smooth recovery, without vocalization and pain. The release to its natural habitat occurred after 120 days.(AU)

Factores asociados con falla en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de sífilis materna / Factors associated with misdiagnosis and treatment failure of maternal syphilis

Introducción: La sífilis materna inadecuadamente tratada constituye un problema de salud pública ya que puede producir gran morbimortalidad fetal y neonatal. Objetivo: describir factores relacionados con falla en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de sífilis materna. Población y métodos: Estudio analítico de casos y controles en el Hospital Materno infantil de Malvinas Argentinas, 2014 y 2015. Casos: mujeres puérperas con sífilis sin tratamiento o inadecuado e hijos con sífilis congénita. Controles: mujeres puérperas e hijos recién nacidos vivos sanos. Se realizó revisión de historias clínicas. Estadística: Caracterización de grupos a través del test de Fisher y t-Student. Se estimó el OR individual y ajustado de "falla en el diagnóstico" y "falla en el tratamiento" fijando IC 95% (p<0,05) para cada variable estudiada en SPSS 24.0. Resultados: Hubo 106 casos de sífilis congénita y 100 controles. Recién nacidos de madres con ≤ 5 controles prenatales (CPN) tuvieron 4 veces más riesgo de presentar falla en el diagnóstico de sífilis materna respecto del grupo control (OR: 4,83; IC 95%: 1,79-12,98) patrón igualmente observado para baja escolaridad materna. Las madres ≤18 años y aquellas con número insuficiente de CPN constituyeron un factor de riesgo significativo para falla en el tratamiento (individual OR ajustado: 4,07; IC 95%: 1,43-11,57 y OR ajustado: 2,85; IC 95%: 1,29-6,28, respectivamente). Conclusiones: Resulta necesario implementar estrategias institucionales orientadas a mejorar el número de controles obstétricos, el índice de escolaridad materna y la tasa de embarazo en adolescentes, con el objeto de reducir fallas en el proceso de diagnóstico y tratamiento de la sífilis materna y por consiguiente disminuir la incidencia de sífilis congénita en nuestra población (AU)

Introduction: Inadequately treated maternal syphilis poses a public health problem as it may cause significant fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Aim: To describe factors related to the misdiagnosis and failure of treatment of maternal syphilis. Population and methods: An analytical case-control study conducted at the Hospital Materno infantil de Malvinas Argentinas, from 2014 to 2015. Cases: post-partum women with syphilis without or with inadequate treatment and children with congenital syphilis. Controls: post-partum women and liveborn healthy neonates. Clinical charts were reviewed. Statistical analysis: The groups were evaluated using Fisher's test and the Student's t test. Individual and adjusted ORs were estimated for "misdiagnosis" and "treatment failure" setting a 95% CI (p<0.05) for each study variable using SPSS 24.0. Results: 106 cases of congenital syphilis and 100 controls were included in the study. Infants born to mothers with ≤ 5 prenatal controls (PNC) had a four-fold risk of presenting with a missed diagnosis of maternal syphilis compared to the control group (OR: 4.83; 95% CI: 1.79-12.98). A similar pattern was observed for maternal educational level. Mothers ≤18 years of age and those with an insufficient number of PNC were significant risk factors for treatment failure (individual OR: 4.07; 95% CI: 1.43-11.57 and adjusted OR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1.29-6.28, respectively). Conclusions: It would be necessary to implement institutional strategies developed to improve the number of pregnancy controls, maternal educational level, and teen pregnancy rates aimed at reducing failures in the diagnostic process and treatment of maternal syphilis thereby diminishing the incidence of maternal syphilis in our population (AU)

Fontes proteicas alternativas oriundas da cadeia produtiva do biodiesel para alimentação de ruminantes / Alternative protein sources derived from the biodiesel production chain for feeding to ruminants

Objetivou-se avaliar a degradação e a produção de gás de diferentes fontes proteicas geradas na cadeia produtiva do biodiesel em substituição à silagem de milho. Os tratamentos foram: coprodutos de Gossyypium hirsutum, Ricinus communis, Moringa oleifera, Jatropha curcas, Helianthus annus. Os produtos foram analisados mediante a técnica semiautomática de produção de gases in vitro. O coproduto da moringa apresentou maior taxa de degradação, quando comparado aos demais alimentos, porém apresentou baixa produção de gás e se tornou mais eficiente, sendo, portanto, indicado como o melhor nível (27,06%) de substituição à silagem de milho. O coproduto da mamona e o do algodão produziram a maior quantidade de gás em 48h de incubação. Todos os coprodutos estudados podem ser utilizados na dieta de ruminantes como alimento proteico até 30% de substituição à silagem de milho.(AU)

This study aimed to assess the degradation and gas production of different protein sources generated in the biodiesel production chain replacing corn silage. The treatments were byproducts Gossyypium hirsutum, Ricinus communis, Moringa oleifeira, Jatrophacurcas, and Helianthusannus. The products were analyzed by semi-automated technique of gas production in vitro. The coproduct moringa showed higher degradation rate compared to other foods, but showed low gas production, making it more efficient, being nominated as the best level of 27.06% by replacing corn silage. The byproducts of castor oil and cottonseed produced the largest amount of gas in 48 h of incubation. All studied byproducts can be used in the diet of ruminants as a protein food up to 30% by substitution of corn silage.(AU)

Avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana da planta Tradescantia pallida Munt (Taboquinha Roxa) / Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of the Tradescantia pallida Munt plant (Taboquinha Roxa)

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi pesquisar o efeito antimicrobiano in vitro do extrato hidroalcóolico das folhas Tradescantia pallida Munt conhecida como Taboquinha roxa. Foram realizados testes em meio sólido, onde não observou qualquer halo de inibição, e o método de microdiluição, em que os resultados foram expressivos, com determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e Concentração Bactericida Mínima (CBM), com resultados em diferentes concentrações. Foram utilizadas cepas padrão de bactérias Gram positivas e Gram negativas. De acordo com os resultados, sugere-se que essa planta apresenta um potencial antimicrobiano.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of the Tradescantia pallida Munt leaves,known as Taboquinha roxa. The tests were both conducted on solid mean, where it was not observed any zone of inhibition, and by the micro dilution method, in which the results of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were significant and related with the different concentrations. Standard strains of bacteria type Gram positive and Gram negative were employed. According to the results, this plant has an antimicrobial potential.

Expressão gênica de adipocinas em ovelhas alimentadas com resíduos da indústria do biodiesel da mamona / Adipokine gene expression in ewes fed with residues from the biodiesel castor industry

A expressão de RNAm para leptina, receptor de leptina (obRb), adiponectina, receptor de adiponectina (AdipoR1) e resistina foi avaliada por meio da técnica de PCR em tempo real, em tecidos ovariano, hipofisário, adiposo do omento e da região perirrenal, em ovelhas alimentadas sem farelo de mamona ou com farelo de mamona detoxificada durante 14 meses. O tipo de dieta não afetou os níveis de RNAm para leptina, obRb, adiponectina, AdipoR1 e resistina nos diferentes tecidos avaliados (P>0,05). Nos tecidos ovariano e hipofisário, não foi verificada a expressão da adiponecina e da resistina, respectivamente. Como consequência, pode-se concluir que o farelo de mamona detoxificada pode ser utilizado como fonte proteica na dieta de ovelhas, sem afetar a expressão do gene resistina e dos genes leptina e adiponectina, bem como de seus receptores...

The expression of leptin, leptin receptor (obRb), adiponectin, adiponectin receptor (AdipoR1) and resistin was assessed by real-time PCR technique in ovarian, pituitary, and the omental adipose perirenal tissue in sheep feed without castor meal or with detoxified castor meal. The type of diet did not affect mRNA levels for leptin, obRb, adiponectin, resistin AdipoR1 evaluated in different tissues (P>0.05). However, in pituitary and ovarian tissues there was no expression of resistin and adiponectin, respectively. The detoxified castor meal can be used in sheep diets as alternative food protein without affecting the expression of leptin and adponectin as well as their receptors and resistin...

Segregated Delivery of Rifampicin and Isoniazid from Fixed Dose Combination Bilayer Tablets for the Treatment of Tuberculosis.

Aims: Develop an anti-tuberculosis (TB) Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) tablet containing an immediate release layer (IRL) composed of both rifampicin (RIF) and pyrazinamide (PYR) and a retarded release layer (RRL) comprised of isoniazid (INH) which would allow segregated delivery of RIF and INH. Study Design: Trials were conducted on the pre-formulations and formulations to assess the compatibility of excipients and obtain a modified release profile, for an IRL consisting of both RIF and PYR and a RRL containing INH. Place and Duration of Study: This study was performed at the Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Industrial Technology, Drug and Pharmaceutical Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, between March 2008 and April 2010. Methodology: Preformulation studies were performed on RIF and PYR, alone and in combination with excipients. The pharmacopeic attributes of the distinct layers and the FDC tablets were evaluated for hardness, friability and disintegration time. The FDC bilayer tablets were analyzed for their drug content and cumulative dissolution of the drug. Results: Fourier transform infrared, x-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry results revealed the presence of amorphous and crystalline RIF forms and no potentially relevant incompatibilities were identified in the kneaded system containing RIF, PYR and excipients. In vitro drug release from the FDC tablets revealed that the intragranular addition of croscarmellose sodium into the IRL rendered a cumulative dissolution of RIF and PYR within the limits of simulated gastric fluid. And, for RRL, the most effective retardant matrix excipient was found to be hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. Conclusion: Segregated delivery of RIF and INH from bilayer tablets is an option for the development of immediate release FDC tablets and the retarded release of INH, this strategy proved suitable for preventing contact of these two drugs under acidic conditions. This finding suggested that RIF had a high in vivo bioavailability which qualifies this FDC for future bioavailability studies.

Effects of different frequencies of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on venous vascular reactivity

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a type of therapy used primarily for analgesia, but also presents changes in the cardiovascular system responses; its effects are dependent upon application parameters. Alterations to the cardiovascular system suggest that TENS may modify venous vascular response. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of TENS at different frequencies (10 and 100 Hz) on venous vascular reactivity in healthy subjects. Twenty-nine healthy male volunteers were randomized into three groups: placebo (n=10), low-frequency TENS (10 Hz, n=9) and high-frequency TENS (100 Hz, n=10). TENS was applied for 30 min in the nervous plexus trajectory from the superior member (from cervical to dorsal region of the fist) at low (10 Hz/200 μs) and high frequency (100 Hz/200 μs) with its intensity adjusted below the motor threshold and intensified every 5 min, intending to avoid accommodation. Venous vascular reactivity in response to phenylephrine, acetylcholine (endothelium-dependent) and sodium nitroprusside (endothelium-independent) was assessed by the dorsal hand vein technique. The phenylephrine effective dose to achieve 70% vasoconstriction was reduced 53% (P<0.01) using low-frequency TENS (10 Hz), while in high-frequency stimulation (100 Hz), a 47% increased dose was needed (P<0.01). The endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine) and independent (sodium nitroprusside) responses were not modified by TENS, which modifies venous responsiveness, and increases the low-frequency sensitivity of α1-adrenergic receptors and shows high-frequency opposite effects. These changes represent an important vascular effect caused by TENS with implications for hemodynamics, inflammation and analgesia.

Qualidade do leite cru refrigerado sob inspeção federal na região Nordeste / Quality of bulk tank milk with federal inspection from the dairy industry in the Brazilian Northeast

Estudou-se a influência sazonal sobre a composição química, a contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e a contagem bacteriana total (CBT) de leite cru refrigerado em vários estados da região Nordeste. Os dados foram obtidos de 116.989 amostras de leite de tanques coletadas pelas indústrias com cadastro no serviço de inspeção federal. As amostras foram separadas em três períodos (I, II, III), de acordo com aplicação da Instrução Normativa-51 (IN-51). O teor de gordura, média de 3,7%, foi o componente do leite que apresentou maior variação. Proteína e lactose tiveram amplitude de 0,04% entre os períodos e apresentaram médias de 3,2 e 4,4%, respectivamente. Maiores valores de CCS foram observados entre os meses de maio e julho, 594,33 a 625,28 mil cel/mL, enquanto para CBT os maiores valores ocorreram nos meses de maio e junho, 1308,54 e 1333,83 UFC/mL. Observaram-se diferenças significativas nos componentes do leite entre os estados, principalmente no que se refere à qualidade higiênico-sanitária.

The aim was to study seasonal influence on the chemical composition, somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacteria count (TBC) in bulk tank milk in the Brazilian Northeast. The data analyzed was obtained from 116.989 samples of bulk tank milk collected from industries that have an account at the Federal Inspection Service (FIS). The samples were separated into three periods (I,II,III), according to application of IN-51. PROC GLM was used to study the comparison of means by Duncan's test. The fat varied more, with an average of 3.66%, protein and lactose had an amplitude of 0.04% between periods, and an average of 3.16 and 4.41%, respectively. Higher values of SCC were observed in the months from May to July (594.33 to 625.28 thousand cells/mL), while in TBC the largest values occurred in May and June (1308.54 and 1333.83 CFU/mL). Significant differences in milk components between states were observed, especially with regard to hygienic quality. The chemical composition, SCC and TBC were influenced between periods and months of the year.

Iogurte probiótico produzido com leite de cabra suplementado com Bifidobacterium spp / Probiotic yogurt produced with goat milk supplemented with Bifidobacterium spp

Avaliaram-se iogurtes de leite de cabra contendo ou não Bifidobacterium longum, B. breve, B. pseudolongum ou B. bifidum, adicionados ou não de aroma de morango. Os dados obtidos nas análises higiênico-sanitárias e físico-químicas foram dentro dos valores exigidos pela legislação brasileira; apenas o valor encontrado para lactose esteve abaixo do recomendado. Quanto às bactérias do iogurte, não houve diferença na contagem de Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus durante a estocagem, e não foi detectado Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus nas diluições utilizadas. A enumeração de Bifidobacterium spp. manteve-se entre 10(6) e 10(8)UFC/mL e não diferiu entre as espécies ao longo do tempo. Considerando-se a adição ou não de aroma, a análise das variáveis tempo e aroma não mostrou diferença estatística. A contagem entre os Bifidobacterium spp. demonstrou que nenhum microrganismo apresentou um comportamento superior a outro. Na análise sensorial, as amostras de iogurtes adicionados ou não de Bifidobacterium spp. e adicionados de aroma de morango não apresentaram diferenças entre si. O estudo mostrou ser possível a elaboração de iogurte de leite de cabra adicionado de Bifidobacterium spp. e de aroma de morango com qualidade assegurada, potencial para uso probiótico e boa aceitação pelo consumidor.

Goat milk yogurt with or without Bifidobacterium longum, B. breve, B. pseudolongum, or B. bifidum, and supplemented or not with strawberry aroma were evaluated. Data obtained from hygienic-sanitary and physicochemical analyses were within the values recommended by the Brazilian legislation, except for lactose contents, which were lower than the recommended. In relation to the yogurt bacteria, there was no difference in the counts of Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus during the storage, and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus was not detected. The counts of Bifidobacterium spp.ranged from 10(6) to 10(8)CFU/mL, without difference between the species along the time. Considering the addition of flavor or not, the analysis of aroma and time variables showed no statistical difference. The counts of Bifidobacterium spp. demonstrated that none showed a superior value. For the hedonic scale test, there was no difference between yogurts supplemented or not with Bifidobacterium spp., and added or not with strawberry aroma. The study showed to be possible the elaboration of goat milk yogurt supplemented with Bifidobacterium spp. and strawberry aroma, presenting safety, potential for probiotic use, and good acceptability by consumers.