Bioactives of Melipona rufiventris Propolis: Exploring its Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Activities.

This study explores the potential of propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, from Melipona rufiventris species. With its composition encompassing resin, wax, pollen, and soil, propolis holds historical significance in traditional medicine within tropical regions. This research is driven by the scarcity of information surrounding M. rufiventris propolis, prompting an investigation into its chemical constituents, in vivo toxicity, and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This exploration could potentially uncover novel applications for this natural product, bolstering both meliponiculture practices and the preservation of native bee populations. The propolis was sampled in Cabo Verde-MG and underwent ethanolic extraction to yield an extract (EEP) for analysis. Chemical assessments (Folin-Ciocalteau, and UHPLC-HRMS) revealed the presence of polyphenols, including flavonoids. The EEP demonstrated higher antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and exhibited efficacy against multiresistant strains isolated from complex wounds. Synergistic interactions with commercial antibiotics were also observed. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory evaluations showcased the EEP's potential in reducing NF-kB activation and TNF-α release at non-toxic concentrations. Despite these promising biological activities, the EEP exhibited no antiproliferative effects and demonstrated safety in both the MTS assay and the G. mellonella model. Collectively, these findings highlight the M. rufiventris propolis extract as a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with multifaceted potential.

Altered profile of plasma phospholipids in woman with recurrent pregnancy loss and recurrent implantation failure treated with lipid emulsion therapy.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) and Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) are highly heterogeneous condition and many of the mechanisms involved still require elucidation. The aim was to analyze the lipidomic profile in plasma of women with RPL and RIF before and after receiving the Lipid Emulsion Therapy (LET) containing 10% fish oil (SMOFlipid® 20%). METHODS: This study included twenty-six women with RPL or RIF from immunological or inflammatory causes, with elevated natural killer cell levels and divided into a Pregnancy Loss or a Live Birth group according to the outcome. The women received intravenous LET and sample collecting was done before the first, third and fifth dose of LET in the pregnant women. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF MS) and multivariate statistical methods were performed to evaluate the profile of phospholipids present in the women's plasma. RESULTS: An increase of phosphatidylcholines (PC) 40:8 and 36:5 levels with predominance of n6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was observed in plasma lipids of the Pregnancy Loss Group compared to Live Birth Group. We also observed an increase in the relative abundance of n3 PUFA-PC species (42:10 and 36:6) and LysoPC 15:0 with the long term use of LET. CONCLUSION: The greater availability of n3 PUFA in plasma of the pregnant women stemming from LET use can be considered advantageous regarding the alteration of the phospholipid profile and its postulated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory role.

Community therapy as a strategy for promoting the mental health of professors in the COVID-19 pandemic / La terapia comunitaria como estrategia de promoción de la salud mental del profesorado en la pandemia de COVID-19 / Terapia comunitária como estratégia de promoção da saúde mental de docentes na pandemia de COVID-19

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the perception of university professors about Integrative Community Therapy as a mental health promotion strategy. Methods: Qualitative, phenomenological and interventional research, conducted with professors of the Nursing course at the Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia, Jequié, Bahia, Brazil. The experiential descriptions were produced through phenomenological interviews, whose resulting material was analyzed based on the Ambiguity Analytical technique. Results: The professors expressed a lack of interaction between them, a fact that has become a reality in everyday academic life and that has worsened in the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, the Community Therapy circles in a virtual environment proved to be effective in sharing psychosocial and physical demands, as well as in the collective discussion of problem situations and the search for joint solutions. Conclusion: The study highlights the potential of Community Therapy as an integrative and complementary practice to the Brazilian public health care model.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender la percepción de los profesores universitarios sobre la Terapia Integrativa Comunitaria como estrategia para promover la salud mental. Métodos: Investigación cualitativa, fenomenológica e intervencionista, realizada con profesores del curso de Enfermería de la Universidad Estatal del Sudoeste de Bahía, Jequié, Bahía, Brasil. Las descripciones vivenciales se produjeron a través de entrevistas fenomenológicas, cuyo material resultante fue analizado con base en la técnica Analítica de la Ambigüedad. Resultados: Los docentes manifestaron una falta de interacción entre ellos, hecho que se ha hecho realidad en la vida académica cotidiana y que se ha agravado con el surgimiento de la pandemia de COVID-19. En este contexto, las ruedas de Terapia Comunitaria en un entorno virtual demostraron ser efectivas para compartir demandas psicosociales y físicas, así como en la discusión colectiva de situaciones problemáticas y la búsqueda de soluciones conjuntas. Conclusión: El estudio destaca el potencial de la Terapia Comunitaria como práctica integradora y complementaria al modelo de salud pública brasileño.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender a percepção de docentes universitários sobre a Terapia Comunitária Integrativa como estratégia de promoção da saúde mental. Métodos: Pesquisa qualitativa, fenomenológica e interventiva, realizada com docentes do curso de Enfermagem da Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia, Jequié, Bahia, Brasil. As descrições vivenciais foram produzidas mediante entrevista fenomenológica, cujo material resultante foi analisado com base na técnica Analítica da Ambiguidade. Resultados: As Docentes expressaram carência de interação entre elas, fato que tem se constituído uma realidade no cotidiano da vida acadêmica e que se agravou na emergência da pandemia da COVID-19. Nesse contexto, as rodas de Terapia Comunitária em ambiente virtual se mostraram eficazes ao compartilhamento de demandas psicossociais e físicas, bem como à discussão coletiva de situações-problema e a busca de soluções conjuntas. Conclusão: O Estudo evidencia o potencial da Terapia Comunitária como prática integrativa e complementar ao modelo de atenção à saúde pública brasileiro.

Plasma Metabolites and Liver Composition of Broilers in Response to Dietary Ulva lactuca with Ulvan Lyase or a Commercial Enzyme Mixture.

The effect of a high incorporation level of Ulva lactuca, individually and supplemented with a Carbohydrate-Active enZyme (CAZyme) on broilers' plasma parameters and liver composition is assessed here. Twenty one-day-old Ross 308 male broilers were randomly assigned to one of four treatments (n = 10): corn/soybean meal based-diet (Control); based-diet with 15% U. lactuca (UL); UL diet with 0.005% of commercial carbohydrase mixture; and UL diet with 0.01% of recombinant ulvan lyase. Supplementing U. lactuca with the recombinant CAZyme slightly compromised broilers' growth by negatively affecting final body weight and average daily gain. The combination of U. lactuca with ulvan lyase also increased systemic lipemia through an increase in total lipids, triacylglycerols and VLDL-cholesterol (p < 0.001). Moreover, U. lactuca, regardless of the CAZyme supplementation, enhanced hepatic n-3 PUFA (mostly 20:5n-3) with positive decrease in n-6/n-3 ratio. However, broilers fed with U. lactuca with ulvan lyase reduced hepatic α- and γ-tocopherol concentrations relative to the control. Conversely, the high amount of pigments in macroalga diets led to an increase in hepatic ß-carotene, chlorophylls and total carotenoids. Furthermore, U. lactuca, alone or combined with CAZymes, enhanced hepatic total microminerals, including iron and manganese. Overall, plasma metabolites and liver composition changed favorably in broilers that were fed 15% of U. lactuca, regardless of enzyme supplementation.

Effect on Broiler Production Performance and Meat Quality of Feeding Ulva lactuca Supplemented with Carbohydrases.

The aim of the study was to test if feeding 15% U. lactuca to broilers, alone or combined with carbohydrases, enhanced meat nutritional quality, without compromising growth performance. One hundred and twenty 22-day-old broilers were allocated to the following diets and replicated 10 times for 14 days: (1) maize and soy-based diet (control); (2) control with 15% U. lactuca (UL); (3) UL diet with 0.005% commercial carbohydrase mixture (ULC); and (4) UL diet with 0.01% ulvan lyase (ULE). Final body weight and average daily gain decreased (p < 0.050) with the ULE diet compared with the control, but no significant differences were found for the other diets. The intestinal viscosity increased (p < 0.001) with all alga diets but was lowered (p < 0.050) in the ileum with the ULE diet, relative to UL and ULC diets. Meat lightness and redness values, off-flavours, and total carotenoids increased (p < 0.001), while yellow values, tenderness, juiciness, overall acceptability, α- and γ-tocopherol, and total lipids decreased (p < 0.001) with alga diets. The n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) increased (p < 0.050), and the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio decreased (p < 0.001) with the ULE diet. Total minerals in meat increased (p < 0.001) with alga diets, conversely to sodium and zinc (p < 0.001). Feeding 15% of U. lactuca to broilers did not impair growth but increased meat nutritional value through the accumulation of health-promoting antioxidant carotenoids, n-3 PUFA and total minerals, although reducing overall meat acceptability.

Influence of Feeding Weaned Piglets with Laminaria digitata on the Quality and Nutritional Value of Meat.

Laminaria digitata is a novel feedstuff that can be used in pig diets to replace conventional feedstuffs. However, its resilient cell wall can prevent the monogastric digestive system from accessing intracellular nutrients. Carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) supplementation is a putative solution for this problem, degrading the cell wall during digestion. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of 10% L. digitata feed inclusion and CAZyme supplementation on the meat quality and nutritional value of weaned piglets. Forty weaned piglets were randomly allocated to four experimental groups (n = 10): control, LA (10% L. digitata, replacing the control diet), LAR (LA + CAZyme (0.005% Rovabio® Excel AP)) and LAL (LA + CAZyme (0.01% alginate lyase)) and the trial lasted for two weeks. The diets had no effect on any zootechnical parameters measured (p > 0.05) and meat quality traits, except for the pH measured 24 h post-mortem, which was higher in LAL compared to LA (p = 0.016). Piglets fed with seaweed had a significantly lower n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio compared to control, to which the higher accumulation of C20:5n-3 (p = 0.001) and C18:4n-3 (p < 0.0001) contributed. In addition, meat of seaweed-fed piglets was enriched with bromine (Br, p < 0.001) and iodine (I, p < 0.001) and depicted a higher oxidative stability. This study demonstrates that the nutritional value of piglets' meat could be improved by the dietary incorporation of L. digitata, regardless of CAZyme supplementation, without negatively affecting growth performance in the post-weaning stage.

Antioxidant effect of chamomile tea on the salivary glands of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

This study aimed to analyze oxidative stress and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the salivary glands of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats with ad libitum consumption of chamomile tea in substitution of water for 21 days. Rats were divided in two control groups (untreated control and treated control) and two diabetic groups (untreated diabetic and treated diabetic). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) activities, total antioxidant status (TAS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were determined. The chemical composition of the chamomile essential oil revealed 39 compounds, accounting for 93.5% of the total oils. The polyphenolic profile of the tea showed the presence of apigenin, luteolin, umbelliferone, and esculetin. SOD, GPx, CAT, and TAS levels were lower in the parotid (PA) diabetic glands, but treatment increased their concentration in both the submandibular (SM) and PA diabetic salivary glands. Increased MDA levels were observed in the PA diabetic glands, which were decreased by the consumption of chamomile tea with a reduction in hyperglycemia compared to that in untreated diabetic rats. However, the SM diabetic glands showed no difference in the MDA content. The consumption of chamomile tea prevented oxidative stress in the PA glands of diabetic rats, exhibiting hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects. Thus, chamomile tea could be a potential candidate for preventing oral complications in diabetes mellitus.

Religiosidade/espiritualidade e adesão à terapia antirretroviral em pessoas vivendo com HIV / Religiosity/spirituality and antiretroviral therapy adherence in people living with HIV / Religiosidad/espiritualidad y adhesión a la terapia antirretroviral en personas viviendo con VIH

Dentre os fatores associados à adesão à Terapia Antirretroviral (TARV) em pessoas vivendo com HIV, destaca-se a religiosidade/espiritualidade (R/E). O objetivo deste estudo foi apresentar as evidências disponíveis sobre a relação entre a dimensão da R/E e a adesão aos antirretrovirais. Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa de literatura com buscas nas bases/bibliotecas CINAHL, LILACS, PePSIC, PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO, Scopus e Web of Science. Foram selecionados artigos empíricos publicados entre janeiro de 2008 e junho de 2019, sendo recuperados 49 estudos após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão/exclusão. Encontraram-se associações positivas, negativas e neutras entre R/E e adesão à TARV, evidenciando que a R/E é uma dimensão psicossocial que pode ser preditora da adesão aos antirretrovirais. O sentido dessa influência, no entanto, ainda não é um consenso na literatura científica. Recomenda-se que essas influências sejam compreendidas a partir de elementos contextuais dessa população e não apenas de marcadores pessoais (AU).

Religiosity and spirituality (R/S) have stood out among factors associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in people living with HIV. This study aimed to identify evidence on the relationship between R/S and adherence to ART. An integrative literature review was conducted within the CINAHL, LILACS, PePSIC, PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Empirical articles published between January 2008 and June 2019 were selected, and 49 studies were retrieved after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Positive, negative, and neutral associations were found between R/S and adherence to ART, showing that R/S is a psychosocial dimension that can be a predictor of adherence to antiretrovirals. The meaning of this influence, however, is not yet a consensus in the scientific literature. It is recommended that these influences be understood from the contextual elements of this population and not just from personal markers (AU).

Entre los factores asociados a la adherencia a la Terapia Antirretroviral (TARV) en personas diagnosticadas con VIH, destaca la religiosidad/espiritualidad (R/E). El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar las evidencias disponibles sobre la relación entre la dimensión de la R/E y la adherencia a los antirretrovirales. Se realizó una revisión integradora de la literatura con búsquedas en las bases de datos/bibliotecas CINAHL, LILACS, PePSIC, PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO, Scopus y Web of Science. Se seleccionaron artículos empíricos publicados entre enero de 2008 y junio de 2019, y se recuperaron 49 estudios tras aplicar los criterios de inclusión/exclusión. Fueron encontradas asociaciones positivas, negativas y neutras entre la R/E y la adherencia al TARV, lo que demuestra que la R/E es una dimensión psicosocial que puede ser un predictor de la adherencia a los medicamentos antirretrovirales. Sin embargo, el significado de esta influencia aún no está consensuado en la literatura científica. Se recomienda que estas influencias se entiendan a partir de los elementos contextuales de esta población y no solo de los marcadores personales (AU).

Antinociceptive activity of puberulin and choisyine from ethanol extract of Choisya ternata Kunth var. Sundance.

Choisya ternata Kunth variety Sundance (CTS) is a plant used in traditional medicine in North America, especially in Mexico. The present study evaluated the antinociceptive activity of the crude ethanolic extract of CTS leaves and tested its isolated compounds puberulin (Pu) and choisyine (Ch). An antinociceptive effect was observed after treatment with CTS extract and the isolated compounds Pu and Ch. Mice orally pre-treated with CTS extract (10, 30 or 100 mg/kg), Pu or Ch (0.3, 1 or 3 mg/kg) were less sensitive to chemical and thermal algesic agents in different animal models (formalin-, glutamate- and capsaicin-induced licking response tests and hot plate test). In addition, an antagonist of the opioid receptor was able to reverse the antinociceptive effect observed for the CTS extract and the isolated substance Ch, but it did not inhibit the effect of Pu. The cholinergic pathway was found to be involved in this antinociceptive effect for the CTS extract and Ch but has no participation in the Pu antinociceptive activity.

In vivo and in vitro toxicological evaluations of aqueous extract from Cecropia pachystachya leaves.

CECROPIA PACHYSTACHYA: leaves are popularly used to treat asthma and diabetes. Despite the widespread consumption of this plant, there are few scientific studies regarding its toxicological potential. In order to conduct a thorough study concerning the potential adverse effects, the aim of this study was to assess acute and subacute toxicity tests of crude aqueous extract from C. pachystachya leaves (CAE-Cp) using in vivomodel, as well as in vitro cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and antioxidant activity. In addition, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity of chlorogenic acid (CGA) and cytotoxicity of isoorientin (ISOO) were also evaluated. The antioxidant activity was verified by DPPH, cytotoxicity using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay and genotoxicity by comet assay on V79 cells. The phytochemical analysis of CAE-Cp detected flavonoids and tannins, CGA and ISOO as the major compounds utilizing HPLC. The total flavonoid content (6.52 mg/g EQ) and antioxidant activity (EC50 = 62.15 µg/ml) of CAE-Cp were determined. In vitro evaluations with CAE-Cp showed genotoxic effects at 0.31 to 2.5 mg/ml and an expressive cytotoxicity on HT-29 (IC50 = 4.43 µg/ml) cells. CGA was genotoxic against V79 cells at 0.07 mg/ml and cytotoxic against to HT-29 (IC50 = 71.70 µg/ml), OVCAR-3 (IC50 = 80.07 µg/ml), MCF-7 (IC50 = 45.58 µg/ml) and, NCI-H460 (IC50 = 71.89 µg/ml) cancer cell lines. Wistar rats treated with a single dose (2,000 mg/kg) CAE-Cp decreased hemoglobin levels after 14 days, although no significant toxicity was observed in animals after 28 days. In view of the in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity detected, further studies are necessary to establish the safe use of CAE-Cp.

A religiosidade/espiritualidade no contexto hospitalar: reflexões e dilemas a partir da prática profissional / Religiosity/spirituality in the hospital context: reflections and dilemmas from professional practice

Incorporar religiosidade/espiritualidade (R/E) ao cuidado em saúde tem sido um desafio para diferentes profissionais, entre eles o psicólogo. Este estudo apresenta um relato de experiência profissional acerca do modo como a R/E foi experienciada em atendimentos psicológicos no contexto hospitalar. Os resultados observados foram: concepção de R/E para o paciente e seus familiares e os impactos do adoecimento em suas crenças; percepção do limiar entre o respeito e o acolhimento do profissional relacionado à R/E do paciente; percepção dos profissionais da saúde sobre a R/E na equipe; reflexos da vivência no hospital para a R/E do psicólogo. Existem dilemas e angústias enfrentados pelos profissionais da saúde quanto à postura adequada na abordagem aos pacientes em relação à R/E, o que pode resultar em um acolhimento superficial que não tem abarcado as demandas dos sujeitos em atendimento hospitalar, nem pressupostos da Organização Mundial da Saúde acerca da atenção nesse campo.

Incorporating religiosity / spirituality (R / E) into health care has been a challenge for different professionals, including the psychologist. This study presents a report of professional experience about how the R / E was experienced in psychological care in the hospital context. The results observed were: conception of R / E for the patient and his family and the impacts of the illness on their beliefs; perception of the threshold between the respect and the user embracement of the professional related to the patient's R / E; perception of health professionals about the R / E in the team; reflexes of the hospital experience for the psychologist's R / E. There are dilemmas and anxieties faced by health professionals regarding the proper posture in approaching patients in relation to R / E, which may result in a superficial user embracement that has not encompassed the demands of subjects in hospital care, nor the assumptions of the World Health Organization. Health about care in this field.

Bio-synthesized sardine oil concentrate alters the composition of hepatic lipids in rats: A lipidomic approach.

Both preventive and curative therapies have created a considerable demand for n-3 PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) from fish oil, such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids, for human use. Bio-synthesized sardine oil (bioSO) concentrate containing an acylglycerols mixture with 50% n-3 PUFAs was obtained by Candida cylindracea lipase hydrolysis and subsequently used for in vivo tests in animals. Wistar rats received, by gavage, a dose of 0.2 g/kg/day of bioSO or unmodified sardine oil (unSO) or saline solution (control) for three consecutive days and the liver tissue was evaluated by a selective and sensitive lipidomic approach based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MSE) and gas chromatography (GC). In addition, antioxidant parameters, response of oxidative stress marker and estimated fatty acid desaturase indexes were determined. The use of bioSO led to an increase in Cer d18:1/16:0, PE-Cer d14:2/18:0 and highly unsaturated phosphatylcholines (PC 38:4, PC 40:6 and PC 42:8) in the hepatic tissue membranes. There was also an increase in DHA incorporation in animals that received bioSO in comparison with the control animals. No differences in superoxide dismutase and catalase activity levels were observed between the groups, and malondialdehyde levels and delta 5-desaturase activity were higher in animals supplemented with bioSO. These results indicate that bioSO increase the hepatic incorporation of DHA, especially those esterified as PCs, and are probably absorbed and transported more effectively than the unSO. Enzymatically hydrolyzed compounds containing antioxidants may be a viable alternative for obtaining n-3 PUFA-enriched functional lipids.

Assessing the Metabolic Impact of Ground Chia Seed in Overweight and Obese Prepubescent Children: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial.

Childhood obesity is a medical condition of major public health concern. Chia seeds are used to treat certain noncommunicable diseases, and they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to the absorption of vitamins. A randomized double-blind clinical trial of 30 obese children was performed. The sample was composed of prepubertal 5- to 10-year-old children of both sexes with body mass indexes equal to or above the 95th percentile who were recruited through the Pediatric Department of the Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Blood samples were drawn, the children were weighed and measured, and a 24-h dietary recall was obtained before and after the treatment. Not only were significant differences observed for fibrinogen (P = .011) but a correlation between the changes in markers and the presence of fibers was also observed for two inflammatory parameters: tumor necrosis factor-α (P = .027) and nuclear factor-κß (P = .059). These results indicate that chia seeds may have anti-inflammatory effects related to their fiber content in the context of childhood obesity.

A comprehensive characterization of polyphenols by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS from Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides geopropolis and their antibacterial, antioxidant and antiproliferative effects.

The geopropolis is a unique type of propolis produced by some stingless bee species. This product is known in folk medicine for its pharmacological properties, mainly antimicrobial and antioxidant, but there are few scientific studies that prove these properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenolic composition and the antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of Melipona quadrifasciata geopropolis. The phenolic characterization of the geopropolis ethanolic extract was evaluated by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS. The antimicrobial activity was carried out against Gram-positive (including multiresistant microorganisms), negative and yeast. The synergistic effect was evaluated in association with Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC and HPLC on-line were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity. Antiproliferative activity was assessed by the sulforhodamine B assay. Flavonoids and phenolic acids were identified in the extract, which showed promising antimicrobial activity, partially synergistic effect and antioxidant activity.

Human care in light of Merleau-Ponty's Phenomenology / Cuidado humano a la luz de la Fenomenología de Merleau-Ponty / Cuidado humano à luz da Fenomenologia de Merleau-Ponty

ABSTRACT Objective: to reflect on Maurice Merleau-Ponty's notion of intersubjectivity as a potential reference to researches and actions directed to human care. Method: a reflexive analysis addressing three thematic areas: intersubjectivity and the holistic care; intersubjectivity and interdisciplinarity within the context of care; and description of experiences related to the own body within the context of health care. Results: the discussion presents structuring elements of Merleau-Ponty's notion of intersubjectivity, such as: dialogue, respect, bond, and language. On the other hand, it reveals ambiguities inherent in the connection of life and culture worlds, created in the intersubjectivity, resulting in different profiles of care, considering its potential to create interdisciplinarity and integrity within the context of health practices. Conclusion: intersubjectivity can contribute by making more creative and innovative the care with ourselves, the others, and the world.

RESUMEN Objetivo: reflexionar sobre la noción de intersubjetividad de Maurice Merleau-Ponty como un referencial posible para investigaciones y acciones dirigidas al cuidado humano. Método: análisis reflexivo, que desveló tres ejes temáticos: intersubjetividad y el cuidado integral; intersubjetividad e interdisciplinariedad en el contexto del cuidado; y la descripción de las vivencias del cuerpo propio en el contexto del cuidado en salud. Resultados: la discusión muestra elementos estructurantes de la noción Merleau-Pontyana de intersubjetividad, tales como: el diálogo, el respeto, el vínculo y el lenguaje. Por otro lado, revela ambigüedades inherentes al entrelazamiento del mundo de la vida y de la cultura, producidas en la intersubjetividad, que hace surgir diferentes perfiles de cuidado, teniendo en vista su potencial para producir interdisciplinariedad e integralidad en el contexto de las prácticas de salud. Conclusión: la intersubjetividad puede contribuir para que el cuidado de sí, del otro y del mundo ocurra de forma más creativa e innovadora.

RESUMO Objetivo: refletir sobre a noção de intersubjetividade de Maurice Merleau-Ponty como um referencial possível para pesquisas e ações voltadas ao cuidado humano. Método: análise reflexiva, que desvelou três eixos temáticos: intersubjetividade e o cuidado integral; intersubjetividade e interdisciplinaridade no contexto do cuidado; e a descrição de vivências do corpo próprio no contexto do cuidado em saúde. Resultados: a discussão mostra elementos estruturantes da noção Merleau-Pontyana de intersubjetividade, tais como: o diálogo, o respeito, o vínculo e a linguagem. Por outro lado, revela ambiguidades inerentes ao entrelaçamento do mundo da vida e da cultura, produzidas na intersubjetividade, que faz surgir diferentes perfis de cuidado, tendo em vista seu potencial para produzir interdisciplinaridade e integralidade no contexto das práticas de saúde. Conclusão: a intersubjetividade pode contribuir para que o cuidado de si, do outro e do mundo ocorra de forma mais criativa e inovadora.

Adhesion of mechanically and chemically dispersed crude oil droplets to eggs of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus).

Crude oil accidentally spilled into the marine environment undergoes natural weathering processes that result in oil components being dissolved into the water column or present in particulate form as dispersed oil droplets. Oil components dissolved in seawater are typically considered as more bioavailable to pelagic marine organisms and the main driver of crude oil toxicity, however, recent studies indicate that oil droplets may also contribute. The adhesion of crude oil droplets onto the eggs of pelagic fish species may cause enhanced transfer of oil components via the egg surface causing toxicity during the sensitive embryonic developmental stage. In the current study, we utilized an oil droplet dispersion generator to generate defined oil droplets sizes/concentrations and exposed Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) to investigate if the potential for dispersed oil droplets to adhere onto the surface of eggs was species-dependent. The influence of a commercial chemical dispersant on the adhesion process was also studied. A key finding was that the adhesion of oil droplets was significantly higher for haddock than cod, highlighting key differences and exposure risks between the two species. Scanning electron microscopy indicates that the differences in oil droplet adhesion may be driven by the surface morphology of the eggs. Another important finding was that the adhesion capacity of oil droplets to fish eggs is significantly reduced (cod 37.3%, haddock 41.7%) in the presence of the chemical dispersant.

Effect of the consumption of green tea extract during pregnancy and lactation on metabolism of mothers and 28d-old offspring.

The objective was to investigate the effects of the maternal consumption of the green tea extract during pregnancy and lactation on mothers and offspring metabolism. The female Wistar rats, on the first day of pregnancy until the end of lactation, was divided into groups: MC- received water and ME- received green tea extract (400 mg/kg body weight/day), both ingested control diet. After lactation, at day 28th post-partum, the mothers and pups from each mother were euthanized and composed the groups: FC- pup from mother received water and FE- pup from mother received green tea extract. The ME group increased IL-10/TNF-α ratio and IL-1ß content in the mesenteric and IL-1ß content in retroperitoneal adipose tissues, and decreased catalase activity. The FE group decreased the retroperitoneal adipose tissue relative weight and SOD activity, but increased adiponectin, LPS, IL-10 and IL-6 content and IL-10/TNF-α ratio in retroperitoneal, IL-10 and TNF-α content in gonadal, and IL-6 content in mesenteric adipose tissues. In summary, the maternal consumption of green tea extract associated with control diet ingestion during pregnancy and lactation altered the inflammatory status of mothers and 28d-old offspring. These data elucidate the effects of green tea during pregnancy and lactation on maternal and offspring metabolism.

Biocatalytic Synthesis of Flavonoid Esters by Lipases and Their Biological Benefits.

Several studies have described important biological activities of flavonoids such as coronary heart disease prevention, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, enzyme inhibition activity, and antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities. Flavonoids show promising activity as natural plant-based antioxidants due to their antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. However, their primary applications as antioxidants in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries are limited because of their moderately hydrophilic nature. Enzymatic acylation of natural polyphenols with fatty acids or other acyl donors has been suggested for improving the lipophilic nature of the glycosylated flavonoids. This approach increases flavonoid solubility and stability in lipophilic systems. Acylation of flavonoids with different acyl donors may also introduce beneficial properties to the molecule, such as penetration through the cell membrane and improved antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, cytogenetic, and enzyme inhibition activities. Chemical methods for the synthesis of flavonoid esters lead to the formation of side products and the simultaneous decomposition of the flavonoids due to harsh reaction conditions. In contrast, biocatalytic acylation of flavonoids by lipases offers advantages associated to the wide availability of these enzymes, their low cost, chemo-, regio-, and enantioselectivity, mild condition processing and non-requirement of cofactors. This article is focused on the recent development of lipase-catalyzed synthesis of flavonoid esters and the impact of the acylation reaction on their biological activities.

The antioxidant effects of green tea reduces blood pressure and sympathoexcitation in an experimental model of hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress is a key mediator in the maintenance of sympathoexcitation and hypertension in human and experimental models. Green tea is widely known to be potent antioxidant. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the effects of green tea in a model of hypertension. METHODS: Hypertension was induced by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor [N-nitro-L-arginine-methyl-ester (L-NAME); 20 mg/kg per day, orally, for 2 weeks] in male Wistar rats. After the first week of L-NAME treatment, animals received green tea ad libitum for 1 week. At the end of the treatment period, blood pressure, heart rate, baroreflex sensitivity, renal sympathetic nerve activity, and vascular and systemic oxidative stress were assessed. RESULTS: L-NAME-treated animals exhibited an increase in blood pressure (165 ±â€Š2 mmHg) compared with control rats (103 ±â€Š1 mmHg) and green tea treatment reduced hypertension (119 ±â€Š1 mmHg). Hypertensive animals showed a higher renal sympathetic nerve activity (161 ±â€Š12 spikes/s) than the control group (97 ±â€Š2 spikes/s), and green tea also decreased this parameter in the hypertensive treated group (125 ±â€Š5 spikes/s). Arterial baroreceptor function and vascular and systemic oxidative stress were improved in hypertensive rats after green tea treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, short-term green tea treatment improved cardiovascular function in a hypertension model characterized by sympathoexcitation, which may be because of its antioxidant properties.

Quinoline Alkaloids Isolated from Choisya Aztec-Pearl and Their Contribution to the Overall Antinociceptive Activity of This Plant.

Choisya 'Aztec-Pearl', a hybrid of Choisya ternata and Choisya dumosa var. arizonica, had the antinociceptive activity in the ethanol extract (EECA) of its leaves evaluated. Two quinoline alkaloids, anhydroevoxine (A) and choisyine (C), isolated from these leaves were also tested. The results obtained pointed out to a very high antinociceptive activity measured by the hot plate model for EECA (at doses of 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg) as well as for A and C (at doses of 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg). The magnitude of the activity was two-fold higher than the one observed for the morphine treated animals for the higher doses of extracts/compounds (30, 100 mg/kg and 3, 10 mg/kg respectively). The mechanism of action for this activity was also investigated and it seems that for EECA as well as A and C, the opiate system plays an important role. Results have also shown that the nitric oxide (NO) system also play a pivotal role in the case of EECA and A while for C it seems that the cholinergic system have some involvement. The acute toxicity was evaluated for EECA with results showing no important toxic effect.