Selenium Biomarkers and Their Relationship to Cardiovascular Risk Parameters in Obese Women.

A cross-sectional study was carried out with 210 women divided into a case group (obese, n = 84) and a control group (eutrophic, n = 126). Body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and hip and neck circumference were measured and the waist-hip ratio and conicity index were calculated. Selenium in plasma, erythrocytes and urine, erythrocyte GPx activity, lipid profile, Castelli I and II indices, and systolic and diastolic blood (DBP) pressure were evaluated. Mean dietary selenium intake (µg/kg/day) and plasma and erythrocyte concentrations were lower in the obese group compared to the healthy group (p < 0.001). while urinary selenium concentrations were higher (p < 0.001). There was a statistical difference between groups regarding cardiovascular risk parameters: waist circumference, neck circumference, waist-hip ratio, conicity index, triacylglycerols (TGC), and lipoproteins rich in triacylglycerols (VLDL-c) (p > 0.05). There was a negative correlation between plasma selenium concentrations and total cholesterol (TC), non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c), and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Urinary selenium correlated negatively with waist circumference and hip circumference and positively with neck circumference, TC, TGC, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c), non-HDL, and VLDL-c. There was a negative correlation between dietary selenium and waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, neck circumference, conicity index, non-HDL cholesterol, LDL-c, and Castelli indices I and II, as well as a positive correlation with HDL-c and diastolic blood pressure. Women with obesity present changes in their nutritional status related to selenium, as well as increased cardiovascular risk parameters. Thus, the positive role of selenium in protecting the risk of cardiovascular disease is likely.

Association Between Parameters of Cortisol Metabolism, Biomarkers of Minerals (Zinc, Selenium, and Magnesium), and Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress in Women with Obesity.

This is a cross-sectional study with women divided into a group of those with obesity (n = 80) and a control group (n = 94). Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS program. There were high values of GPx and TBARS and reduced values of SOD in women with obesity compared to the control group. Obese women showed increased concentrations of cortisol in serum and urine as well as hypozincemia, hyposelenemia, and hypomagnesemia and increased urinary excretion of these minerals. There was a negative correlation between the cortisol/cortisone ratio and erythrocyte zinc and selenium concentrations and a significant positive correlation between GPx and SOD activity and erythrocyte and plasma concentrations of zinc and selenium. The results of the study suggest the influence of adiposity on the increase in cortisol concentrations and the role of this hormone in the compartmentalization of the minerals zinc, selenium, and magnesium. However, the association study does not allow identifying the impact of such action on the antioxidant defense system and insulin sensitivity.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELENIUM NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND MARKERS OF LOW-GRADE CHRONIC INFLAMMATION IN OBESE WOMEN.

Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the main disorders that characterize adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity and is an important element in the pathogenesis of several comorbidities. In this context, selenium is an essential micronutrient that exerts important anti-inflammatory functions, and the role of selenium in controlling inflammation associated with obesity is not well defined. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between markers of the nutritional status of selenium and low-grade chronic inflammation in obese women. This cross-sectional study included 81 women aged between 18 and 50 years, who were divided into two groups according to body mass index (BMI): the obesity group (n = 38) and normal weight group (n = 43). Selenium intake was assessed by 3-day diet records. The plasma, erythrocyte, and urinary selenium concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The analysis of serum cytokines interleukin (IL)-8, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) was performed using flow cytometry. The results of this study revealed that the obese women had higher dietary intake of selenium than eutrophic women. However, obese participants showed decreased selenium concentrations in plasma and erythrocytes, in parallel with increased concentrations of selenium in the urine. Regarding the inflammatory parameters, obese women exhibited higher concentrations of IL-6 and lower concentrations of the cytokines IL-8, IL-1ß, and TNFα than eutrophic women. In the binary logistic regression analysis, erythrocyte selenium was considered an independent predictor of the serum concentrations of cytokine IL-8 in obese women, reflecting the anti-inflammatory action of this micronutrient.

Peach Palm By-Product Bioconversion by Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom Lentinula edodes (Agaricomycetes) for Food Products Application in Brazil.

This study aims to analyze the peach palm by-product (shells) bioconversion by culinary-medicinal mushroom Lentinula edodes to obtain a food ingredient for dietary supplementation containing high contents of dietary fiber, protein, and ß-glucans. The ß-glucans production by L. edodes mycelium was optimized through a solid-state fermentation, checking the influence of the heart of palm shells and supplements (rice bran, manioc flour, and sorghum flour) through an experimental mixing plan. The cultivation treatment that presented the highest tendency for ß-glucans production was analyzed by the centesimal composition and in vivo biological activity. Treatments 4 (with shells, rice bran, and manioc flour) and 6 (with shells, sorghum flour, and manioc flour) presented the highest ß-glucans content. A flour was obtained with high dietary fiber and protein content, and low lipids and carbohydrates content, and low caloric value. The in vivo biological activity demonstrated high protein quality and promoted a lower elevation of the glycemic curve. Thus, technology for the transformation of peach palm shells into a food ingredient was made feasible. It could generate a gluten-free and lactose-free dietary supplement that is both nutritive and bioactive, enhancing human health and well-being as well as environmental sustainability.

In Vivo Evaluation and Nutritional Quality of By-Products Subjected to Solid-State Fermentation Using Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Lentinula edodes (Agaricomycetes).

This study evaluates the nutritional quality and in vivo biological activity of a peach palm by-product food ingredient processed via solid-state fermentation by shiitake culinary-medicinal mushroom, Lentinula edodes. The group of Wistar rats that consumed this diet had higher total dietary fiber content, digestibility, rate of protein quality, and protein efficiency. They also presented a late and softer insulinemic peak with an increase in the glycemic index, demonstrating amino acid limitation but with a feasible matrix as a complement protein. Discrete variation on total cholesterol and triglycerides was observed with a reduction in lipid profile, attributed to its high dietary fiber content. Lipids from within the liver and stool revealed that the fermented diet contained the lowest rates of fat in the liver and, consequently, the highest elimination compared to the other control diets. The serum lipid profile suggests a positive modulation of this diet, and that it has good nutritional quality with the potential to positively influence glycemic and lipid profiles.

Nutritional status of selenium in overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Selenium is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient and regulates important physiological processes, such as carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, immune system actions, and adipocyte differentiation. Given these important functions, several studies have assessed the nutritional status of selenium to elucidate whether its homeostasis is impaired by excess adiposity, which in turn could contribute to the adipose tissue dysfunction and metabolic disorders. However, the results of these studies are quite controversial. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess differences in the nutritional status of selenium in overweight/obese individuals. METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Virtual Health Library databases. Studies comparing overweight or obese individuals with eutrophic individuals and assessing at least one marker of selenium were included. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software was used to perform meta-analysis. The effect size was calculated using the raw mean difference or the standardized mean difference, with 95% confidence interval and a p-value of <0.05. Heterogeneity was determined using the I2 index. Subgroup analyses were performed according to sex, body mass index (BMI), and selenium content in the soil. The protocol of this review was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD42020185405). RESULTS: This systematic review included 73 articles, of which 65 articles were eligible for meta-analysis. There were no significant differences between the overweight/obesity and eutrophy groups in terms of dietary intake and plasma/serum levels of selenium and selenoprotein P levels. The activity of plasma/serum glutathione peroxidase was decreased in the overweight/obese children and adolescents; however, the difference was no statistically significant when the enzyme activity was analyzed in erythrocytes and whole blood. In the adult age group, overweight/obese individuals had decreased activity of both glutathione peroxidase isoforms compared to those individuals with eutrophy. In particular, the activity of erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase was significantly decreased in obese individuals and those living in regions with low-to-moderate selenium content in the soil. Regarding selenium excretion markers, overweight/obese individuals had lower levels of selenium in the urine and nails and a trend of higher levels of selenium in the hair than eutrophic individuals. CONCLUSIONS: In conditions of excess adiposity, the main alteration in the nutritional status of selenium is a decrease in glutathione peroxidase activity, particularly in adults with obesity. In addition, reduced levels of selenium in urine and nails can be found in overweight or obese individuals.

Selenium status and its relationship with thyroid hormones in obese women.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Studies have been conducted with the purpose of elucidating thyroid gland dysfunction in obesity, however the contributing factors for such dysfunction are not yet fully understood. Selenium is notable for its role in thyrocyte protection against oxidative damage and control of thyroid hormone synthesis. In addition, subjects with obesity may exhibit alterations in the selenium homeostasis. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the selenium status and its relationship with serum thyroid hormone levels in obese women. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 69 euthyroid women, aged between 18 and 50 years, who were divided in two groups: an obese group (n = 35) and a control group with women of normal weight (n = 34). Selenium intake was assessed by three-day diet records and analyzed using NutWin software version 1.5. Plasma, erythrocyte, and urinary selenium levels were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Testing for thyroid hormones and thyroid autoantibodies was performed based on chemiluminescence. RESULTS: The median dietary selenium content was adequate according to the recommendations, with no statistical difference between groups. Obese women had reduced plasma and erythrocyte selenium levels compared to the control group, although selenium concentration in erythrocytes was adequate within the normal range for both groups. There was no significant difference between the urinary selenium concentrations in the subjects; however, the mineral clearance was higher in the obese group. Free triiodothyronine (fT3) and free thyroxine (fT4) levels were higher in obese women with class II obesity when compared to the control group. There was a negative correlation between plasma selenium and serum fT4 levels. CONCLUSIONS: Obese women showed impairment in selenium homeostasis, however, this fact did not seem to adversely affect thyroid metabolism.

Relation Between Zinc and Thyroid Hormones in Humans: a Systematic Review.

The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the relation between zinc and the thyroid hormones in humans. The search for articles was conducted using the Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ScienceDirect databases on October 21 and 22, 2019, by two authors independently. The recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed in the conduct of this review. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias of the trials included in this review. After the screening of the articles, eight studies that assessed the effects of zinc supplementation on thyroid hormone concentrations and ten studies that assessed the relationship between blood zinc concentrations and thyroid hormones were included in this systematic review. Although cross-sectional and case-control studies have shown a relationship between zinc deficiency and thyroid, the data from this systematic review provides inconclusive evidence with respect to the effects of zinc supplementation on thyroid hormone concentrations due to the divergence of the research found by the authors that only reports findings in patients suffering from some kind of disease, which cannot be generalized to the average human population.

Selenium Nutritional Status and Glutathione Peroxidase Activity and Its Relationship with Hemodialysis Time in Individuals Living in a Brazilian Region with Selenium-Rich Soil.

Suboptimal selenium status may impair the antioxidant defense system in patients undergoing hemodialysis, compromising the selenoenzyme glutathione peroxidase activity. To evaluate the association between the duration of hemodialysis, nutritional selenium status, glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis in a region of selenium-rich soils (Ceará, Northeast Brazil). The case-control study of 75 individuals aged 18 to 88 years was allocated between two groups: hemodialysis (n = 41) and control (n = 34). Plasma and erythrocytes selenium levels were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The GPx activity and TBARS levels were also evaluated. In addition, the hemodialysis group was stratified according to the duration of treatment (≤ 59 months and ≥ 60 months). The Mann-Whitney test, Student's t test, and Pearson's or Spearman's correlation were applied according to the data distribution. Moreover, a quantile regression was performed. The significance level (p) was < 0.05. The hemodialysis group had lower selenium levels in their plasma and erythrocytes than the control group (p < 0.001). However, there was no difference in the GPx activity between the groups. Furthermore, an association between the hemodialysis group and selenium levels in plasma (coefficient - 16,343, p < 0.001) and erythrocytes (coefficient - 7839, p = 0.003) was observed by quantile regression, independent of age, sex, and body-mass index. In individuals who had undergone treatment for 60 months or more, GPx activity was lower (p = 0.026) and TBARS levels higher (p = 0.011) than in those who had undergone treatment for less than 60 months. The status of selenium was reduced in the hemodialysis group compared to the control group. The lower GPx activity and higher levels of TBARS in individuals who had undergone treatment for 60 months or more correlated with greater oxidative stress.

Relationship between selenium status and biomarkers of oxidative stress in Crohn's disease.

OBJECTIVE: Crohn disease (CD) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation and various factors involved in its pathogenesis including oxidative stress. The oxidative stress in CD may compromise antioxidant nutrients, such as selenium. The aim of this study was to assess the status of selenium and its relationship with markers of oxidative stress in patients with CD in comparison to controls. METHODS: The study included 47 patients with CD (20 with active disease and 27 in remission) and 25 healthy individuals. Blood samples were collected for the analysis of plasma and erythrocyte selenium concentrations using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Selenoprotein P (SepP) was evaluated by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GPx1) activity was assessed by using an automatic biochemistry analyzer, and the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was measured. Comparative analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test. For correlations, Pearson's coefficient test was used. The determinants for CD and lipid peroxidation were indicated by odds ratio. RESULTS: Plasma and erythrocyte selenium levels and SepP concentrations were lower in the CD patient groups than in the healthy group. GPx1 activity and the concentration of TBARS were significantly higher in the CD groups. In the univariate analysis, plasma and erythrocyte selenium and TBARS were associated with CD. CONCLUSION: Patients with CD have impaired selenium status, which is related to the increased oxidative stress observed in these patients.

The role of selenium in insulin resistance

ABSTRACT In recent years, there has been growing interest in clarifying the pathogenesis of some chronic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolic alterations in these diseases are characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Studies have demonstrated the participation of minerals in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, more specifically their involvement in the synthesis and regulation of insulin. Selenium is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant micronutrient that is essential for the activity of selenoproteins. Two selenoproteins (glutathione peroxidase and selenoprotein P) are known to be involved in the insulin signaling pathway. The aim of this review is to provide an update on the role of selenium in insulin resistance mechanisms. Evidence shows that adequate concentrations of selenium play a key role in the secretion and action of insulin, but an excess of selenium in the body is associated with the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and the development of diabetes mellitus.

Development of enteral homemade diets for elderly persons receiving home care and analysis of macro and micronutrient composition / Desenvolvimento de dietas enterais semiartesanais para idosos em atenção domiciliar e análise da composição de macro e micronutrientes

Abstract Objective: the development and analysis of the macro and micronutrient composition of homemade enteral diets. Method: A standard homemade enteral diet was developed at three caloric concentrations - 1500, 1800 and 2100 Kcal. After preparation and testing of viscosity, stability, odor and color, plus evaluation of cost, the chemical composition of the nutrients of the diets were analytically determined. Folic acid, vitamin D and vitamin B12 values were calculated using chemical composition tables. The results were compared with recommended nutritional standards for the elderly. Result: The diets exhibited normal macronutrient distribution. The 1500 caloric level presented some mineral and vitamin deficiencies. Suitable values ​​were obtained at the other caloric levels for all minerals except magnesium. There were appropriate levels of all the vitamins in the 2100 Kcal diet, while vitamin E, D and B6 levels were below the recommended dietary allowances in the 1800 Kcal diet. Conclusion: The standard homemade enteral diets studied can contribute to the food and nutritional safety of elderly persons undergoing home care, if all are supplemented with magnesium and the 1800 Kcal diet is supplemented with vitamin E, D and B6. The 1500 Kcal diet was not nutritionally safe in terms of micronutrients. AU

Resumo Objetivo: Desenvolver e analisar a composição de macro e micronutrientes de dietas enterais semiartesanais para uso domiciliar. Método: Foi desenvolvida uma receita de dieta enteral semiartesanal padrão, com três concentrações calóricas, de 1500, 1800 e 2100 Kcal. Após o preparo e teste de viscosidade, estabilidade, odor, cor e custo as dietas tiveram a composição química de macro e micronutrientes analisada. O folato e vitamina D e B12 tiveram seus valores estimados por meio de tabelas de composição química. Os resultados encontrados foram comparados com as recomendações nutricionais para idosos. Resultado: As dietas apresentaram distribuição normal de macronutrientes. A dieta de 1500 Kcal apresentou diversas deficiências de minerais e vitaminas. Nos demais níveis calóricos, obteve-se valores adequados para todos os minerais exceto o magnésio. As vitaminas estavam todas adequadas no nível calórico de 2100 Kcal e no de 1800 Kcal, a vitamina E, D e B6 não alcançaram as recomendações dietéticas diárias. Conclusão: A dietas padrões desenvolvidas podem contribuir para segurança alimentar e nutricional de idosos em terapia nutricional domiciliar, desde que todas suplementadas com magnésio, e a de 1800 Kcal com vitamina E, D e B6. A fórmula de 1500 Kcal não se mostrou segura nutricionalmente no que tange aos micronutrientes. AU

Osmolality and pH in handmade enteral diets used in domiciliary enteral nutritional therapy

Patients who need prolonged domiciliary enteral nutritional therapy may benefit from handmade diets. However, the preparation of such diets might cause insecurity with regard to their nutritional composition and physical-chemical properties. Current study analyzes the osmolality and Hydrogen-Ion concentration (pH) on handmade enteral diets. To this purpose, six formulas and two juices, prescribed on discharge from hospital, were analyzed physically and chemically. Osmolality and pH were respectively determined by cryoscopy and potentiometry. Most formulations were classified as isosmolar (with less than 400 mOsm/kg solvent), and only one was classified as slightly hyperosmolar, with rates ranging from 356.7 to 403.5 mOsm/kg solvent. On average, the standard formula presented higher osmolality than similar ones prepared for hyperglycemia. Among the juices, only one registered hyperosmolar concentration of 595.54 mOsm/kg solvent. All formulas presented pH rates classified as low acidity, ranging between 6.1 and 6.6, while the two juices had the lowest results, 4.73 and 4.66 each. The blend of ingredients used in handmade formulas and juices studied presented acceptable osmolality and pH rates for a safe administration and absence of gastrointestinal complications. Data showed here are consistent with an appropriate and healthy diet and contributed towards success in domiciliary enteral nutritional therapy.

[Evaluation of the aroreira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) in the healing process of surgical incision in the bladder of rats]. / Avaliação da ação da Aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) na cicatrização de feridas cirúrgicas em bexiga de ratos.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the hydroalcoholic aroeira extract in the healing process of surgical incisions in the bladder of rats in an experimental comparative study. METHODS: Forty male Wistar rats were used. All of them underwent a median abdominal incision, with an 1cm cystotomy, followed by one plain suture with separated stitches of poliglactine 910 5-0. The animals were then divided into two groups of 20 rats each, and named the aroeira group (GA) and the control group (GC). In the first one, 80% hydro-alcoholic plant extract was injected in the peritoneal cavity, in a one dose of 100mg/kg. The second group, a 0.9% saline solution was injected in place of aroeira extract. Each group was divided into two subgroups (SGA and SGC) of 10 animals. According to their scheduled death, they were named subgroups SGA3 and SGC3 when killed in the 3th day after surgery and subgroups SGA7 and SGC7 in the 7th day. The abdominal cavity and the bladder suture were macroscopically evaluated. RESULTS: The microscopic analysis of the surgical incision in the bladder was performed by means of the hematoxilin-eosine stain and the trichrome of Masson. The macroscopic analysis showed an infection in the surgical incision in three rats of the SGC group and in one of the SGA, and peritoneal adhesion in the 26 rats belonging nine to SGC and 17 in the SGA. The microscopic evaluation revealed a more severe acute inflammation process in the SGC on the 3th (p=0.045) and in the 7th (0=0.002) days. In the SGA, a more significant collagenization (p=0.001) could be seen, as far as the evidence of vascular neoformation (p=0.002) on the 3rd day. Chronic inflammatory reaction (p=0.006) and a more intense vascular neoformation (p=0.001) were observed in the 7th day. CONCLUSION: The hydroalcoholic aroeira extract had a favorable effect in the healing process of cystotomies done in rats.

[Evaluation of the use of raw extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. in the healing process of skin wounds in rats]. / Avaliação do uso do extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas em ratos.

INTRODUCTION: Phytotherapy is one of the research branches in the healing process of surgical wounds. PURPOSE: To analyze the morphological aspects of the healing process occurring in open skin lesions in rats under administration of raw extract from Jatropha Gossypiifolia L. METHOD: Sixty Wistar rats were utilized. A 2 cm wound in diameter was done in each animal at the dorsal region. The animals were divided into two groups, each one consisting of 30 animals. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups of ten. They were analyzed in the 7th, 14th and 21st post-operative day. The two groups were compared through macroscopic analysis using digital planigraphy and histological examination. The microscopic parameters considered were the vascular proliferation, polymorph and mononuclear cells, fibroblastic proliferation, collagen and epithelium formation. RESULTS: Epithelization occurred in a same amount in all animals. There was no chronic inflammation on 21st day in the Jatropha group and also no difference in polymorphonuclear cells between the groups. The fibroblastic reaction was better on the 7th day in the Jatropha group and equal in the remaining ones. Colagenization was greater on 7th and 14th days in Jatropha and better re-epithelization occurred in the same group in the 7th day. CONCLUSION: Although with histologic aspects favoring the Jatropha, no significant differences concerning to the macroscopic and microscopic aspects were observed among the skin wounds receiving raw extract Jatropha and those that received no treatment in the final evaluation.

[Comparative study of the healing process of gastrographies with and without the use of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (bellyache bush) extract in rats]. / Estudo comparativo da cicatrização de gastrorrafias com e sem o uso do extrato de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (pião roxo) em ratos.

INTRODUCTION: The healing process of the gastrointestinal tract is of huge importance in the surgical field history, as well as the search for appropriate types of threads and suture techniques and the many factors that influence it. The use of phytotherapic drugs as accelerators of the healing process has been done for many years and is one of the current objectives of scientific researches trying to prove its therapeutic properties. PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. extract on the healing process of gastrographies in rats. METHODS: Forty wistar male rats were divided in 2 groups of 20 rats, named control and Jatropha groups. Ten animals of each group were killed in the third day post-surgery and were named control and Jatropha groups of the 3rd day. The remaining 10 animals of each group were killed in the seventh day and were named accordingly for the 7th day. In each animal, gastrostomy and gastrography were performed in a single plane using polypropylene thread 6-0 (Prolene). The animals from the Jatropha group were given a single dose of 200 mg/kg of the Jatropha gossypiifolia L. extract intraperitoneally on the same day of the procedure and the ones from the control group were given the same quantity in milliliters (ml), but of saline solution (sodium chloride 0.9%). The following parameters were evaluated: 1) macroscopic alterations; 2) the suture's resistance to atmospheric air insufflation (pressure of rupture); 3) histologic characteristics. RESULTS: No animal died during the clinical follow-up and optimal healing of the abdominal wall was seen without any signs of infection, dehiscence, abscesses or peritonitis. Healing of the serous surface was considered good in all animals, without occurrence of fistulas; however, intraperitoneal adhesions occurred in 7 rats of the sub-group control and 9 of the sub-group Jatropha on the 3rd day post-operative and in 9 of the sub-group control and 8 of the sub-group Jatropha on the 7th day, but the differences were not statistically significant between the groups. Healing of the mucous surface was classified as good in all the animals. The resistance of the gastrographies to the atmospheric air insufflation showed statistically significant increase of the rupture pressure in the Jatropha group during the 3rd day of observation. Histologic evaluation showed differences that were statistically significant, considered the criteria, as well as reduced acute inflammatory reaction and better coaptation of the edges in the sub-group Jatropha of 7th post-surgery, when compared to the sub-group control of the same period. CONCLUSION: The raw extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. aids the healing on the 3rd day post-surgery, concerning the enhanced resistance of the gastrographies to pressure of rupture, and on the 7th day, presenting better coaptation of the edges and reducing acute inflammatory reaction by microscopic analyses.

Avaliação do uso do extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas em ratos / Evaluation of the use of raw extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. in the healing process of skin wounds in rats

INTRODUÇÃO: O uso de fitoterápicos na cicatrização de feridas cirúrgicas tem sido incrementado nos últimos anos com a busca de princípios ativos que desempenhe efetivo papel neste processo acelerando a recuperação cirúrgica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os aspectos morfológicos do processo cicatricial de feridas cutâneas abertas de ratos com uso do extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. MÉTODOS: Utilizaram-se 60 ratos da linhagem Wistar. Em cada animal foi realizada uma ferida de 2 cm de diâmetro na região dorsal. Os animais foram distribuídos em dois grupos de 30: grupo Controle – sem tratamento e grupo Jatropha – aplicação de extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. Cada grupo foi subdividido em três subgrupos de 10 animais e avaliados no 7º, 14º e 21º dias do pós-operatório. Realizou-se estudo comparativo entre os dois grupos através da análise macroscópica, a planigrafia digital e análise histológica tendo como parâmetro a proliferação vascular, polimorfonucleares, mononucleares, proliferação fibroblástica, colagenização e reepitelização. RESULTADOS: Na evolução da ferida cutânea tanto no grupo controle como no grupo Jatropha houve exsudação plasmática com formação de crostas superficiais até o 7º dia. A partir dai houve espessamento da crosta e no 14º dia a crosta se destacou, evoluindo para tecido de granulação e epitelização completa no 21º dia com surgimento de novos pelos ao redor da lesão, em todos os animais. Houve ausência significativa da inflamação aguda no 21º dia pós-operatório do grupo Jatropha. Houve diferença significativa na intensidade da inflamação crônica, sendo mais intensa no 7º dia no grupo controle. A proliferação fibroblástica foi mais acentuada no 7º dia pós-operatório do grupo Jatropha, sendo semelhante no 14º e 21º dias pós-operatórios nos demais. A colagenização foi maior no 7º e 14º dias no grupo Jatropha. A re-epitelização foi significativamente melhor no 7º dia do grupo Jatropha. CONCLUSÃO: Embora mostrando melhora histológica...

INTRODUCTION: Phytotherapy is one of the research branches in the healing process of surgical wounds. PURPOSE: To analyze the morphological aspects of the healing process occurring in open skin lesions in rats under administration of raw extract from Jatropha Gossypiifolia L. METHOD: Sixty Wistar rats were utilized. A 2cm wound in diameter was done in each animal at the dorsal region. The animals were divided into two groups, each one consisting of 30 animals. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups of ten. They were analyzed in the 7th, 14th and 21st post-operative day. The two groups were compared through macroscopic analysis using digital planigraphy and histological examination. The microscopic parameters considered were the vascular proliferation, polymorph and mononuclear cells, fibroblastic proliferation, collagen and epithelium formation. RESULTS: Epitelization occurred in a same amount in all animals. There was no chronic inflamation on 21st day in the Jatropha group and also no difference in polimorphonuclear cells between the groups. The fibroblastic reaction was better on the 7th day in the Jatropha group and equal in the remaining ones. Colagenization was greater on 7th and 14th days in Jatropha and better re-epitelization occurred in the same group in the 7th day. CONCLUSION: Although with hystologic aspects favoring the Jatropha, no significant differences concerning to the macroscopic and microscopic aspects were observed among the skin wounds receiving raw extract Jatropha and those that received no treatment in the final evaluation.

Estudo comparativo da cicatrização de gastrorrafias com e sem o uso do extrato de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (pião roxo) em ratos / Comparative study of the healing process of gastrorrhaphies with and without the use of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (bellyache bush) extract in rats

INTRODUÇÃO:A cicatrização do trato gastrintestinal é de grande importância na história da cirurgia, buscando-se tipos de fios e pontos apropriados e os diversos fatores que a influenciam. O uso de fitoterápicos como aceleradores da cicatrização tem sido feito por muitos anos sendo objetivo atual de pesquisas para a comprovação científica dessas propriedades terapêuticas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o uso do extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. na cicatrização de gastrorrafias em ratos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 40 ratos Wistar, machos, divididos em dois grupos de 20, denominados de grupos controle e Jatropha. Dez animais de cada grupo foram mortos no 3º dia pós-operatório e denominados subgrupos controle e Jatropha do 3º dia e os 10 restantes de cada grupo foram mortos no 7º dia com a mesma denominação do 7º dia. Em cada animal foi realizado gastrotomia e gastrorrafia em plano único com fio polipropileno 6-0 (Prolene®, Ethicon). Os animais do grupo Jatropha receberam dose única de 200mg/Kg do extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L via intraperitoneal no dia do procedimento e os do grupo controle a mesma quantidade em mililitros de solução salina (cloreto de sódio à 0,9%). Foram avaliados os seguintes parâmetros: 1) alterações macroscópicas; 2) a resistência à insuflação de ar atmosférico (pressão de ruptura) da sutura; 3) características histológicas. RESULTADOS: Não houve morte dos animais na evolução clínica, ocorrendo boa cicatrização da parede abdominal, com ausência de sinais de infecção, deiscência, abscessos ou peritonites. A cicatrização da superfície serosa foi considerada boa em todos os animais, não ocorrendo fístulas, porém, as aderências intra-peritoneais ocorreram em sete ratos do subgrupo controle e nove do subgrupo Jatropha do 3º dia pós-operatório e em nove do subgrupo controle e oito do subgrupo Jatropha do 7º dia, não havendo diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos. A cicatrização da superfície mucosa foi classificada como boa em todos os animais. A resistência das gastrorrafias à insuflação de ar atmosférico demonstrou aumento estatisticamente significante da pressão de ruptura no grupo Jatropha do 3º dia de observação. A avaliação histológica demonstrou diferenças estatisticamente significantes, quanto aos critérios, reação inflamatória aguda menor e coaptação das bordas maior no subgrupo Jatropha do 7º dia pós-operatório em relação ao grupo controle do mesmo período. CONCLUSÃO: O extrato bruto de Jatropha gossypiifolia L. favorece a cicatrização no 3º dia pós-operatório em relação à maior resistência das gastrorrafias à pressão de ruptura, e no 7º dia com melhor coaptação das bordas e reduzindo reação inflamatória aguda à microscopia.

INTRODUCTION: The healing process of the gastrointestinal tract is of huge importance in the surgical field history, as well as the search for appropriate types of threads and suture techniques and the many factors that influence it. The use of phytotherapic drugs as accelerators of the healing process has been done for many years and is one of the current objectives of scientific researches trying to prove its therapeutic properties. PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. extract on the healing process of gastrorraphies in rats. METHODS: Forty wistar male rats were divided in 2 groups of 20 rats, named control and Jatropha groups. Ten animals of each group were killed in the third day post-surgery and were named control and Jatropha groups of the 3rd day. The remaining 10 animals of each group were killed in the seventh day and were named accordingly for the 7th day. In each animal, gastrostomy and gastrorraphy were performed in a single plane using polypropylene thread 6-0 (Prolene). The animals from the Jatropha group were given a single dose of 200 mg/kg of the Jatropha gossypiifolia L. extract intraperitoneally on the same day of the procedure and the ones from the control group were given the same quantity in milliliters (ml), but of saline solution (sodium chloride 0.9%). The following parameters were evaluated: 1) macroscopic alterations; 2) the suture's resistance to atmospheric air insufflation (pressure of rupture); 3) histologic characteristics. RESULTS: No animal died during the clinical follow-up and optimal healing of the abdominal wall was seen without any signs of infection, dehiscence, abscesses or peritonitis. Healing of the serous surface was considered good in all animals, without occurrence of fistulas; however, intraperitoneal adhesions occurred in 7 rats of the sub-group control and 9 of the sub-group Jatropha on the 3rd day post-operative and in 9 of the sub-group control and 8 of the sub-group Jatropha on the 7th day, but the differences were not statistically significant between the groups. Healing of the mucous surface was classified as good in all the animals. The resistance of the gastrorraphies to the atmospheric air insufflation showed statistically significant increase of the rupture pressure in the Jatropha group during the 3rd day of observation. Histologic evaluation showed differences that were statistically significant, considered the criteria, as well as reduced acute inflammatory reaction and better coaptation of the edges in the sub-group Jatropha of 7th post-surgery, when comparet to the sub-group control of the same period. CONCLUSION: The raw extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. aids the healing on the 3rd day post-surgery, concerning the enhanced resistance of the gastrorraphies to pressure of rupture, and on the 7th day, presenting better coaptation of the edges and reducing acute inflammatory reaction by microscopic analyses.

Avaliação da ação da Aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) na cicatrização de feridas cirúrgicas em bexiga de ratos / Evaluation of the aroreira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) in the healing process of surgical incision in the bladder of rats

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a ação cicatrizante do extrato hidroalcoólico da aroeira em bexigas de ratos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 40 ratos machos da linhagem Wistar, divididos em dois grupos de 20, denominados grupo aroeira (GA) e grupo controle (GC). Todos foram submetidos à incisão abdominal mediana com cistotomia de 1 cm, seguida de cistorrafia em plano único com pontos separados de poliglactina 910 5-0 (Vicryl®). Após este procedimento, nos animais GA injetou-se 100mg por quilo de peso de extrato hidroalcoólico da aroeira na cavidade peritoneal e nos GC injetou-se 1 ml por quilo de peso de solução salina a 0,9 por cento . Cada grupo foi dividido em dois sub-grupos de 10 animais de acordo com a data da morte: sub-grupo A3 e C3, sacrificados no 3° dia pós-operatório e sub-grupo A7 e C7, sacrificados no 7° dia. A parede, a cavidade abdominal e a sutura da bexiga foram avaliadas macroscopicamente. Amostras de tecido da bexiga foram retiradas e analisadas histologicamente, utilizando a coloração de Hematoxilina-Eosina (HE) e tricrômio de Masson. RESULTADOS: Na análise macroscópica observou-se infecção na incisão cirúrgica em três ratos do GC e em um do GA, e aderências peritoneais em 29 ratos do GC controle e 17 no GA. A avaliação microscópica mostrou processo inflamatório agudo mais severo no 3° (p=0,045) e no 7° dia (p=0,002). Evidenciou-se ainda diferença estatística nos parâmetros utilizados para a avaliação histológica da cicatrização da bexiga nas variáveis colagenização (p = 0.001), reepitelização (p = 0,046) e neoformação (p = 0) nos subgrupos GC e GA no 3° dia e na variável neoformação vascular (p=0,001) no subgrupo do 7° dia. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de extrato hidroalcoólico de aroeira mostrou efeito cicatrizante favorável nas cistotomias em ratos.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the hydroalcoholic aroeira extract in the healing process of surgical incisions in the bladder of rats in an experimental comparative study. METHODS: Forty male Wistar rats were used. All of them underwent a median abdominal incision, with an 1cm cistotomy, followed by one plan suture with separated stitches of poliglactine 910 5-0. The animals were then divided into two groups of 20 rats each, and named the aroeira group (GA) and the control group (GC). In the first one, 80 percent hydro-alcoholic plant extract was injected in the peritoneal cavity, in a one dose of 100mg/kg. The second group, a 0.9 percent saline solution was injected in place of aroeira extract. Each group was divided into two subgroups (SGA and SGC) of 10 animals. According to their scheduled death, they were named subgroups SGA3 and SGC3 when killed in the 3th day after surgery and subgroups SGA7 and SGC7 in the 7th day. The abdominal cavity and the bladder suture were macroscopically evaluated. RESULTS: The microscopic analysis of the surgical incision in the bladder was performed by means of the hematoxilin-eosine stain and the trichrome of Masson. The macroscopic analysis showed an infection in the surgical incision in three rats of the SGC group and in one of the SGA, and peritoneal adhesion in the 26 rats belonging nine to SGC and 17 in the SGA. The microscopic evaluation revealed a more severe acute inflammation process in the SGC on the 3th (p=0.045) and in the 7th (0=0.002) days. In the SGA, a more significant colagenization (p=0.001) could be seen, as far as the evidence of vascular neoformation (p=0.002) on the 3th day. Chronic inflammatory reaction (p=0.006) and a more intense vascular neoformation (p=0.001) were observed in the 7th day. CONCLUSION: The hydroalcoholic aroeira extract have a favorable effect in the healing process of cystotomies done in rats.

Efeito da suplementaçäo com zinco sobre a atividade e a expressäo gênica da enzima conversora de angiotensina (ECA, EC 3.4.15.1) em testículos de ratos machos em funçäo de sua idade e estado nutricional prévio / Effect of zinc supplementation over the activity and gene expression of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE - EC 3.4.15.1) in rats testis accordingly with its age and previous nutritional status

Foram conduzidos dois experimentos em períodos distintos, com o objetivo de observar o efeito da suplementaçäo com zinco sobre a atividade e a expressäo do mRNA da isoforma testicular da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina (ECA). Os parâmetros de correlaçäo selecionados foram, para o primeiro experimento, a idade dos animais e para o segundo, seu estado nutricional prévio. Para a realizaçäo dos ensaios biológicos, 64 animais da lihagem Wistar (Rattus norvegicus), foram distribuídos em 8 grupos experimentais de 8 animais cada, estando sujeitos aos seguintes tratamentos; - Ensaio biológico 1 - (a) Grupo NS-35 (animais näo suplementados, sacrificados 35 dias após o desmame), (b) Grupo S-35 (animais suplementados, sacrificados 35 dias após o desmame), totalizando 32 animais...