CETP gene polymorphisms and haplotypes are explanatory variables for HDL cholesterol level in sickle cell disease.

Variations in lipid profile have been observed in sickle cell disease (SCD) and understanding their relationship with disease severity is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association of polymorphisms of the CETP gene and laboratory markers of disease severity with lipid profile in a pediatric population with SCD. Biochemical and anthropometric analyses and CETP and alpha-thalassemia genotyping were performed. The study included 133 children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA) or hemoglobin SC disease (SCC), in steady-state. The SCA and no hydroxyurea (no HU) groups had higher values of ApoB, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) compared to the SCC and HU groups. However, there were no significant differences in ApoA1 and HDL-C levels between the groups based on genotype. Furthermore, the groups with altered levels of ApoA1, HDL-C, and the triglyceride/HDL ratio exhibited lower hemoglobin (Hb) levels and higher white blood cell counts. Hb level was associated to HDL-C levels. Analysis of CETP gene variants showed that the minor alleles of rs3764261 (C>A), rs247616 (C>T), and rs183130 (C>T), as well as the TTA haplotype, are explanatory variables for HDL-C levels. These findings suggested that dyslipidemia in SCD, specifically related to HDL-C levels, may be influenced by individual genetic background. Additionally, further investigation is needed to determine if clinical manifestations are impacted by CETP gene variants.

CETP gene polymorphisms and haplotypes are explanatory variables for HDL cholesterol level in sickle cell disease

Variations in lipid profile have been observed in sickle cell disease (SCD) and understanding their relationship with disease severity is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association of polymorphisms of the CETP gene and laboratory markers of disease severity with lipid profile in a pediatric population with SCD. Biochemical and anthropometric analyses and CETP and alpha-thalassemia genotyping were performed. The study included 133 children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA) or hemoglobin SC disease (SCC), in steady-state. The SCA and no hydroxyurea (no HU) groups had higher values of ApoB, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) compared to the SCC and HU groups. However, there were no significant differences in ApoA1 and HDL-C levels between the groups based on genotype. Furthermore, the groups with altered levels of ApoA1, HDL-C, and the triglyceride/HDL ratio exhibited lower hemoglobin (Hb) levels and higher white blood cell counts. Hb level was associated to HDL-C levels. Analysis of CETP gene variants showed that the minor alleles of rs3764261 (C>A), rs247616 (C>T), and rs183130 (C>T), as well as the TTA haplotype, are explanatory variables for HDL-C levels. These findings suggested that dyslipidemia in SCD, specifically related to HDL-C levels, may be influenced by individual genetic background. Additionally, further investigation is needed to determine if clinical manifestations are impacted by CETP gene variants.

Surgeon experience in second-look transurethral resection of bladder cancer - a prospective study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is crucial in the treatment of bladder tumors and when incorrectly performed can cause staging mistakes. To avoid these errors, a second resection is recommended in selected cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the surgeon's ability to predict histologically complete primary resection of newly diagnosed bladder tumors avoiding the need for a second TURBT. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational study involving 47 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed bladder tumors who had previously undergone primary TURBT, and met EAU criteria for second-look TURBT. Second-look TURBT specimens were analyzed for routine histological assessment and compared with the surgeon's impression of the tumor at initial resection. RESULTS: Of 91 patients submitted to primary TURBT, 47 met the criteria for second-look TURBT. Second-look specimens revealed residual disease in 20.9% of patients and 3 (6.4%) of patients showed upstaging disease. The sensitivity of a senior to detect disease on second-look TURBT in relation to muscle invasion was 75%, and the specificity was 85%. CONCLUSIONS: Second-look TURBT is crucial in the treatment of bladder cancer and cannot be replaced by a surgeon's opinion, so international recommendations should be followed. Supervision of less experienced surgeons is a cornerstone.

Pathogens and microorganisms in the mangrove oyster Crassostrea gasar cultivated in an estuarine environment in Northeast Brazil.

Estuaries are important ecosystems due to the ecological services they provide, acting as nurseries for many species of fish and invertebrates, and are also used as environments for the extraction and cultivation of mollusks. Oysters are animals that filter water to obtain oxygen and nutrients. In this process, they can bioaccumulate microorganisms and chemical substances in their tissues. The growth of mollusk culture in Northeastern Brazil requires the health identification of cultivated oysters through the quantification of the potentially harmful microbiota accumulated in the animals. Therefore, the present work aims to quantify and identify bacteria and possible pathogens found in the tissues of cultivated oysters and their culture waters. The Most Probable Number of Coliforms (MPN) in oysters and water were considered suitable according to the Brazilian current legislation, Vibrio sp. obtained low colonization and Salmonella sp. was not observed. The prevalence of microorganisms potentially pathogenic to oysters was 33.7%, highlighting metazoans and Nematopsis sp., however, the intensity of the infestation of these organisms was moderate. The low contamination of oysters demonstrates that this culture environment is promising for this activity. However, continuous environmental and sanitary monitoring is fundamental to guarantee the safety of the culture waters and the sustainability of aquaculture activities.

Filter cake increases sugarcane yield.

Sugarcane cultivation stands out in Brazilian agribusiness, covering more than eight million hectares for the production of sugar, ethanol, and by-products. Fertilization is one of the limiting factors in sugarcane yield, for which filter cake is a viable solution to meet plant nutritional needs. This study aimed to assess the effect of enriched filter cake on gas exchange and yield in RB041443 sugarcane, cultivated in soils of the coastal tablelands of Paraíba, Brazil. The experiment was conducted in the Monte Alegre S/A sugarcane mill, in the municipality of Mamanguape, using a randomized blocks experimental design, with 12 treatments (T1- cake, T2- cake + MAP, T3- cake + gypsum, T4 - cake + phosphate, T5- cake + bagasse, T6- cake + MAP + gypsum, T7- cake + MAP + phosphate, T8- cake + MAP + bagasse, T9- cake + gypsum + phosphate, T10- cake + gypsum + bagasse, T11- cake + phosphate + bagasse, and T12- control (only MAP)), and 4 replications, totaling 48 plots. A significant effect (5% probability) was also observed for the variables number of leaves and tons of stem per hectare (TSH). T1- cake, T4- cake + phosphate, T6- cake + MAP + gypsum and T10- cake + gypsum + bagasse, had the best results for TSH, with yields greater than 140 t ha-1. Regarding stomatal conductance, the highest values were obtained in T6 and T8, which, together with T11, had the highest gs values. Concerning the internal carbon concentration, T1, T2, T6, and T8 stood out. T6 also had a significant effect on transpiration. From this study, it was concluded that the use of enriched filter cake as a base fertilizer in sugarcane culture contributes to increasing the yield of the RB041443 variety, generating positive responses for plant gas exchange, being T1 and T10 indicated to increase the production in the sugar-energy sector.

Influence of essential oils on the quality of Vigna unguiculata L. (Walp.) seeds compared by traditional method, image and multivariate analysis.

The extracts of medicinal plants are used for the treatment of seeds in order to reduce the action of phytopathogens and increase the vigor of the seeds. Currently, computerized image analysis has been used to assess the physiological quality of seed lots. The objective was to evaluate the efficiency of the Vigor-S® software in the evaluation of the physiological quality of cowpea seeds treated with essential oils, comparing with a traditional test and the principal component analysis. Two cowpea cultivars were analyzed, BRS Tumucumaque and BRS Guariba, treated with doses of natural extracts of Alfavaca, garlic, horsetail, citronella and pyroligneous acid. The traditional method consisted of evaluations for germination, first germination count, seedling emergence, emergence speed index, accelerated aging, fresh matter and dry matter of seedling and the image analysis for: seedling length, growth index, uniformity index, vigor index, and germination. A Principal component analysis was applied to reduce the number of variables. Horsetail, Alfavaca and citronella extracts were efficient in increasing the physiological quality of the seeds of at least one cultivar. The Vigor-S® software proved to be efficient compared to traditional tests to assess the physiological quality of seeds. Principal Component Analysis is an ally to identify the best extracts and doses to be used. The image analysis method proved to be effective when compared to the traditional method and can therefore be used.

Photoinactivation of Aedes aegypti larvae using riboflavin as photosensitizer.

More than half of the global population lives in areas where the Aedes aegypti mosquito is present. Efforts have been made to deal with the population of this mosquito in the larval and adult stages to prevent outbreaks of diseases (Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever). In this scenario, photodynamic inactivation may be an effective alternative method to control this vector population. To evaluate the efficacy of the riboflavin - B2 vitamin - as photosensitizer (PS) in the photodynamic inactivation of Ae. aegypti larvae, different concentrations (0; 0.005; 0.010; 0.025; 0.050; 0.075 and 0.100 mg mL-1) were evaluated under white light from RGB LEDs at a light dose of 495.2  J cm-2. The results reveal that riboflavin can be successfully applied as a PS agent to photoinactivate Ae. aegypti larvae, showing its potential to deal with the larvae population.

Treatment time, pain experience and acceptability of the technique for caries removal in primary teeth using the ART approach with or without Brix3000™ papain gel: a preliminary randomised controlled clinical trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) associated with Brix3000™ to ART considering treatment time, pain experienced, and acceptability to children. METHODS: This study was accepted in Research Ethics Committee in July 2019 (number 3469402). Healthy patients (n = 20) aged 3-9 years, with at least one primary molar with occlusal dentine caries without cusp involvement were randomly allocated to either the ART + Brix3000™ group or the ART-only group. The sample was characterised by sex, age, tooth location and caries experience. Time spent and pain experience scores were recorded at prophylaxis, caries removal and restoration. The pain experience (intense, moderate, or mild) was evaluated by the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability-revised scale (FLACC-r). Acceptability was assessed by a five-point hedonic facial scale (dichotomised into 'like' and 'indifferent/dislike' bins) and by an open-question interview. Mann-Whitney, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests were applied to discern differences in time, pain/sample characterisation and acceptability, respectively. RESULTS: The ART + Brix3000™ group required 8.6 ± 3.1 min to remove caries tissue, whereas the ART group required only 4.8 ± 2.0 min (p = 0.03). The total time spent with treatments was 13.1 ± 4.0 min for ART + Brix3000™, and 9.8 ± 2.7 min for ART (p = 0.03). There was no difference in pain experience and acceptability found among the groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Although the ART + Brix3000™ technique demanded more treatment time than the ART alone, there were no differences in either pain experience or acceptability.

Photodynamic control of Aedes aegypti larvae with environmentally-friendly tetra-platinated porphyrin.

This work evaluated the photosensitizing activity of isomeric tetra-cationic porphyrins with peripheral [Pt(bpy)Cl]+ to control the larval population of Aedes aegypti by photodynamic action. The photolarvicidal activity of the tetra-platinated porphyrins at meta and para position (3-PtTPyP and 4-PtTPyP) was evaluated under blue (450 nm), green (525 nm), and red (625 nm) light illumination at 55.0 J cm-2. The meta isomer presented an efficient photolarvicidal activity even at a low concentration (1.2 ppm) in the presence of light, while the para counterpart was inactive regardless of the concentration and illumination. The different responses were related to the improved optical features and higher water solubility of 3-PtTPyP compared to 4-PtTPyP. Additionally, the potential environmental toxicity of 3-PtTPyP was tested in a plant model (Allium cepa test), with no toxicity detected for all used concentrations (1.2 to 12 ppm). Hence, this work reveals that 3-PtTPyP has a great potential to be employed to photodynamically control the insect vector population in an environmentally safe way.

ω-Conotoxina MVIIC e células-tronco mesenquimais promovem recuperação motora em ratos Wistar após trauma medular agudo / ω-Conotoxin MVIIC and mesenchymal stem cells promote motor recovery in Wistar rats after acute spinal cord injury]

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da ω-conotoxina MVIIC e das células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) de forma isolada e sua associação nos ratos submetidos ao trauma medular agudo (TMA). Trinta Rattus novergicus, linhagem Wistar, três meses de idade, foram distribuídos igualmente em cinco grupos experimentais: controle negativo (CN), controle positivo (CP), ω-conotoxina MVIIC (MVIIC), células-tronco mesenquimais da medula óssea (CTM-MO) e associação (MVIIC + CTM-MO). O grupo CN foi submetido à laminectomia sem trauma medular, e os grupos CP, MVIIC, CTM-MO e MVIIC + CTM-MO foram submetidos ao trauma medular contusivo. O grupo CP recebeu, uma hora após o TMA, 10µL de PBS estéril, e os grupos MVIIC e MVIIC + CTM-MO receberam 10µL de PBS contendo 20pmol da ω-conotoxina MVIIC, todos por via intratecal. Os grupos CTM-MO e MVIIC + CTM-MO receberam, 24 horas após, 1x106 de CTM via intravenosa. Avaliou-se a recuperação da função locomotora até o sétimo dia pós-trauma. Os animais tratados com MVIIC + CTM-MO obtiveram recuperação motora após o trauma medular agudo (P<0,05). Conclui-se que essa associação apresentou efeito neuroprotetor com melhora na função locomotora em ratos Wistar.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of isolated ω-conotoxin MVIIC and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and its association in rats submitted to acute spinal cord injury (SCI). Thirty Rattus norvegicus, Wistar strain, three-month-old rats were randomly distributed in five experimental groups with six animals: negative control (CN), positive control (CP), ω-conotoxin MVIIC (MVIIC), bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (CTM-MO) and the association (MVIIC + CTM-MO). The CN group underwent laminectomy without spinal cord trauma, and groups CP, MVIIC, CTM-MO and MVIIC + CTM-MO were submitted to contusive spinal cord trauma. The CP group received 10µl of PBS one hour after SCI, and groups MVIIC and MVIIC + CTM-MO received 10µl of PBS containing 20pmol of ω-conotoxin MVIIC, both intrathecally. Groups CTM-MO and MVIIC + CTM-MO received 1x106 of MSCs intravenously 24 hours later. The recovery of locomotor function was evaluated up to seven days post-injury. The animals treated with MVIIC + CTM-MO obtained motor recovery after SCI (P<0.05). It is concluded that this association showed neuroprotective effect with improvements in locomotor function in Wistar rats.(AU)

Manganese requirements of broiler breeder hens.

The present research was conducted to assess Mn requirements of broiler breeder hens. One hundred and twenty Cobb 500 hens, 22 wk of age, were individually allocated in cages. After fed a Mn-deficient diet (22.2 ppm), hens were randomly placed in treatments having 6 increments of 30-ppm Mn. All trace minerals were from laboratory grade sources being Mn from Mn sulfate (MnSO4H2O). Treatments were fed for 4 periods of 28 d. There were no interactions between dietary Mn and period for any evaluated response (P > 0.05). Requirements of Mn for hen day egg production and settable egg production were 115.8 and 56.6 ppm and 122.1 and 63.6 ppm (P < 0.05), respectively, using quadratic polynomial (QP) and broken line quadratic (BLQ) models, whereas total eggs and total settable eggs per hen had Mn requirements estimated at 115.7 and 56.6 and 121.8 and 61.7 ppm (P < 0.05), respectively. Number of cracked, defective, and contaminated eggs decreased, whereas hatchability, hatchability of fertile eggs, eggshell percentage, and eggshell palisade layer increased when hens were fed diets having 48.5 to 168.2-ppm Mn (P < 0.05). Maximum responses for egg weight and eggshell percentage were 117.7 and 63.6 ppm as well as 131.6 and 71.0 ppm (P < 0.05), respectively, using QP and BLQ models. Breaking strength and egg specific gravity had Mn requirements estimated at 140.2 and 112.7 ppm as well as 131.3 68.5 ppm (P < 0.05), whereas eggshell palisade layer and eggshell thickness were maximized with 128.8 and 68.8 ppm and 140.2 134.2 ppm, respectively, for QP and BLQ models (P < 0.05). Maximum yolk Mn content values were obtained using 118.0- and 118.4-ppm Mn by QP and BLQ models, respectively. The average Mn requirements estimated for QP and BLQ models is 128.4 and 92.3 ppm Mn (18.7 and 13.5 mg/hen/d), respectively, which is much lower than what has been currently recommended in commercial production.

Experimental fluid dynamics characterization of a novel micropump-mixer.

The application of lab-on-a-chip systems to biomedical engineering and medical biology is rapidly growing. Reciprocating micropumps show significant promise as automated bio-fluid handling systems and as active reagent-to-sample mixers. Here, we describe a thorough fluid dynamic analysis of an active micro-pump-mixer designed for applications of preclinical blood analysis and clinical diagnostics in hematology. Using high-speed flow visualization and micro-particle image velocimetry measurements, a parametric study is performed to investigate the fluid dynamics of six discrete modes of micropump operation. With this approach, we identify an actuation regime that results in optimal sample flow rates while concomitantly maximizing reagent-to-sample mixing.

Cinnamyl Schiff bases: synthesis, cytotoxic effects and antifungal activity of clinical interest.

The aim of this study was to synthesize and investigate the in vitro antifungal properties of 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases. In addition, cytotoxic effects of such cinnamyl Schiff bases against human lung, kidney or red blood cells were also checked. The compounds were synthesized in a single-step, 2 min of reaction under microwave irradiation produced up to 97% yield. Six of the 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases possessed antifungal activities against strains of Candida, Aspergillus, Fonsecaea and, particularly, Cryptococcus species. Indeed, cinnamyl Schiff bases 1 and 23 exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values more than twofold lower than fluconazole (FCZ) against all the Cryptococcus neoformans strains (MIC = 1·33, 1·4 and 5·2 µg ml-1 , respectively) and Cryptococcus gattii strains (MIC = 5·3, 2·8 and 9·2 µg ml-1 , respectively) (12 strains of each species) while cinnamyl Schiff base 11 was as potent as FCZ against all strains from both Cryptococcus species. No significant cytotoxic effects were observed for Schiff bases against human lung, kidney or red blood cells, all presenting selective indexes higher than 10. In conclusion, this study revealed cinnamyl Schiff bases, especially 1 and 23, as new lead anticryptococcal agents for the discovery of novel antifungal drugs. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The occurrence and severity of fungal infections have increased in recent decades due to resistance to available antifungal drugs and the appearance of new emerging pathogens. Thus, the search for new antifungal agents is mandatory. From a series of 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases, two compounds (1 and 23) were interrogated as new anticryptococcal agents without significant cytotoxicity against human lung, kidney or red blood cells. In turns, these new Schiff bases are lead compounds for the discovery of novel antifungal drugs.

Alanyl-glutamine protects the intestinal barrier function in trained rats against the impact of acute exhaustive exercise.

Strenuous exercise triggers deleterious effects on the intestinal epithelium, but their mechanisms are still uncertain. Here, we investigated whether a prolonged training and an additional exhaustive training protocol alter intestinal permeability and the putative effect of alanyl-glutamine (AG) pretreatment in this condition. Rats were allocated into 5 different groups: 1) sedentary; 2 and 3) trained (50 min per day, 5 days per week for 12 weeks) with or without 6 weeks oral (1.5 g/kg) AG supplementation; 4 and 5) trained and subjected to an additional exhaustive test protocol with or without oral AG supplementation. Venous blood samples were collected to determine gasometrical indices at the end of the 12-week protocol or after exhaustive test. Lactate and glucose levels were determined before, during, and after the exhaustive test. Ileum tissue collected after all experimental procedures was used for gene expression analysis of Zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1), occludin, claudin-2, and oligopeptide transporter 1 (PepT-1). Intestinal permeability was assessed by urinary lactulose/mannitol test collected after the 12-week protocol or the exhaustive test. The exhaustive test decreased pH and base excess and increased pCO2. Training sessions delayed exhaustion time and reduced the changes in blood glucose and lactate levels. Trained rats exhibited upregulation of PEPT-1, ZO-1, and occludin mRNA, which were partially protected by AG. Exhaustive exercise induced intestinal paracellular leakage associated with the upregulation of claudin-2, a phenomenon protected by AG treatment. Thus, AG partially prevented intestinal training adaptations but also blocked paracellular leakage during exhaustive exercise involving claudin-2 and occludin gene expression.

Efeito do hipotireoidismo materno na expressão espaço-temporal de mediadores imunológicos e população de células natural killers na decídua e na glândula metrial de ratas / Effect of maternal hypothyroidism on the spatiotemporal expression of immunological mediators and population of Natural Killers cells in decidua and metrial gland of rats

Estudou-se o efeito do hipotireoidismo materno na expressão espaço-temporal de mediadores imunológicos e na população de células natural killers (NK) na decídua e na glândula metrial de ratas durante a gestação. Avaliou-se a detecção imunoistoquímica de interferon γ (IFNγ), do fator inibidor de migração (MIF), da interleucina 15 (IL15), do óxido nítrico sintase induzível (iNOS), a marcação com lectina DBA para evidenciação das células NK uterinas DBA+ e a expressão gênica de Ifnγ e Nos2. O hipotireoidismo aumentou o iNOS aos sete dias, a IL15 e o MIF aos 10 e 12 dias, o IFNγ e o MIF aos 14 DG e a expressão dos transcritos gênicos para iNos aos 12 e 19 dias e para Ifnγ aos 14 DG. O hipotireoidismo reduziu a imunomarcação de MIF e lectina DBA aos sete dias, lectina DBA aos 10 e 14 DG, IFNγ aos 12 dias, e a expressão de Ifnγ aos 10 e 19 DG e de iNOS aos 12, 14 e 19 DG, bem como reduziu seus transcritos gênicos aos 10 e 14 DG. Conclui-se que o hipotireoidismo compromete o perfil imunológico na interface materno-fetal ao longo da gestação, particularmente por reduzir o fator anti-inflamatório iNOS e a população de células uNK DBA+.(AU)

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of maternal hypothyroidism on the spatiotemporal expression of immunological mediators and population of Natural Killers cells in decidua and metrial gland of rats. Interferon gamma (IFNγ), migration inhibitory factor (MIF), interleukin 15 (IL15), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and DBA-Lectin labeling for evidence of uNK DBA+ cells in decidua and genetic expression of Ifnγ and iNos by real-time RT-PCR were evaluated. Hypothyroidism increased protein expression of iNOS at 7 days, IL15 and MIF at 10 and 12 days, IFNγ and MIF at 14 DG in the decidua and/or metrial gland and the gene transcripts for iNOS at 12 and 19 days and for Inf at 14 DG. In addition, hypothyroidism reduced the protein expression of MIF and DBA-Lectin at 7 days, DBA-Lectin at 10 and 14 DG, IFNγ at 12 days, and the gene transcript to Ifnγ at 10 and 19 DGs. Hypothyroidism also reduced the protein expression of iNOS at 12, 14 and 19 DG and reduced its gene transcripts at 10 and 14 DGs. It is concluded that hypothyroidism compromises the immunology profile at the maternal-fetal interface throughout pregnancy, particularly by reducing the anti-inflammatory factor iNOS and population of uNK DBA+ cells.(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)

Alanyl-glutamine protects the intestinal barrier function in trained rats against the impact of acute exhaustive exercise

Strenuous exercise triggers deleterious effects on the intestinal epithelium, but their mechanisms are still uncertain. Here, we investigated whether a prolonged training and an additional exhaustive training protocol alter intestinal permeability and the putative effect of alanyl-glutamine (AG) pretreatment in this condition. Rats were allocated into 5 different groups: 1) sedentary; 2 and 3) trained (50 min per day, 5 days per week for 12 weeks) with or without 6 weeks oral (1.5 g/kg) AG supplementation; 4 and 5) trained and subjected to an additional exhaustive test protocol with or without oral AG supplementation. Venous blood samples were collected to determine gasometrical indices at the end of the 12-week protocol or after exhaustive test. Lactate and glucose levels were determined before, during, and after the exhaustive test. Ileum tissue collected after all experimental procedures was used for gene expression analysis of Zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1), occludin, claudin-2, and oligopeptide transporter 1 (PepT-1). Intestinal permeability was assessed by urinary lactulose/mannitol test collected after the 12-week protocol or the exhaustive test. The exhaustive test decreased pH and base excess and increased pCO2. Training sessions delayed exhaustion time and reduced the changes in blood glucose and lactate levels. Trained rats exhibited upregulation of PEPT-1, ZO-1, and occludin mRNA, which were partially protected by AG. Exhaustive exercise induced intestinal paracellular leakage associated with the upregulation of claudin-2, a phenomenon protected by AG treatment. Thus, AG partially prevented intestinal training adaptations but also blocked paracellular leakage during exhaustive exercise involving claudin-2 and occludin gene expression.

Emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents with lower urinary tract dysfunction: a population-based study.

BACKGROUND: An association has been found between lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) and emotional and behavioral problems, particularly in cases of urinary incontinence. Other associated symptoms and the coexistence of functional constipation require further investigation. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether emotional and behavioral problems are more common in children and adolescents with LUTD. STUDY DESIGN: A multicenter, cross-sectional, population-based study conducted in public places. Parents answered questions on urinary and psychological symptoms in their children aged 5-14 years. Children/adolescents with neurological problems or anatomical urinary tract abnormalities were excluded. The Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System was used for assessing urinary symptoms, the Rome III Diagnostic Criteria for evaluating bowel symptoms, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for evaluating emotional and behavioral problems. RESULTS: Of the 806 children/adolescents included, 53% were female. The mean age was 9.1 ± 2.7 years. The prevalence of LUTD was 16.4%. Overall, 26.2% had abnormal scores in the overall SDQ scale, 29.2% in the emotional problems subscale, and 30% in the conduct problems subscale. Of the children with LUTD, 40.5% screened positive for emotional/behavioral problems, with a significant association being found for the overall SDQ scale (P < 0.001) and for the emotional problems (P < 0.001), conduct problems (P < 0.001), and hyperactivity (P = 0.037) subscales. Urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, and voiding postponement were significantly associated with a greater prevalence of abnormalities in the overall SDQ score (P = 0.05; P = 0.004, and P = 0.012, respectively). Bladder and bowel dysfunction was an aggravator of emotional and behavioral problems, with more intense symptoms, both in the overall SDQ scale and in the subscales. In the multivariate analysis, the factors independently associated with the presence of emotional and behavioral problems were LUTD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.91), constipation (OR = 1.7), studying in a government-funded school (OR = 2.2), and poor education of the head of the family (OR = 1.9). CONCLUSIONS: Children and adolescents with LUTD have more emotional and behavioral problems, with bladder and bowel dysfunction being an aggravating factor for this association.

Doxycycline Usage for Prevention of Leptospirosis among Farmers and Reasons for Failure to Use Chemoprophylaxis: A Descriptive Study from Southern Sri Lanka.

BACKGROUND: Leptospirosis causes substantial morbidity and mortality in Sri Lanka. Health authorities have implemented a chemoprophylaxis programme for prevention of disease for farmers who are at a high risk of leptospirosis. Only 39% of general population is aware of chemoprophylaxis. Awareness on chemoprophylaxis and its usage among the risk population and the reasons for non-usage was uncertain. Our aim was to assess the chemoprophylaxis usage for prevention of leptospirosis among farmers and reasons for failure to use such preventive strategy. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on farmers in community setting in Galle District. Multi-stage cluster sampling method was used. Out of the seventeen "Ministry of Health" (MOH) divisions within the Galle district, nine divisions were randomly selected and, subsequently, two subdivisions ("Public Health Midwife" divisions) were randomly selected from each MOH division. From each PHM division (total of 18), a cluster who does farming as the main source of income was selected. From these farmers, details on demographics, knowledge on leptospirosis and knowledge and practice on chemoprophylaxis usage were obtained through an interviewer administered open-ended questionnaire. From those who have not properly taken chemoprophylaxis, the reasons for non-usage were explored by semistructured interviews. RESULTS: We recruited 319 (77%-males) farmers to the study. Eighteen (5.6%) have already had leptospirosis. Majority (86.8%) of farmers were aware that doxycycline can be used to prevent the disease occurrence. Only 31% knew about correct recommendations of chemoprophylaxis usage adopted by the national guidelines. Only 28.5% (91) used doxycycline prophylaxis. Out of those, only 60 farmers (65.9%) continued the prophylaxis throughout the contact and followed national recommendations. Themes responsible for non-usage were elicited such as lack of awareness of chemoprophylaxis usage, false sense of security from the disease by perceived "immunity" due to prolong exposure or due to low prevalence of disease, lack of motivation, lack of availability of medication, and fear of side effects. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness of leptospirosis is better among farmers compared to the general population. Usage of chemoprophylaxis among farmers was highly inadequate. Individual and health system related hypotheses and myths exist for non-usage of chemoprophylaxis. Thus, an urgent concerted campaign aimed at increasing awareness within the target group through education and making medicines effectively distributed is essential for better prevention of the disease.

Sublethal concentrations of acetylcarvacrol strongly impact oocyte development of engorged female cattle ticks Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888) (Acari: Ixodidae).

Rhipicephalus microplus, commonly known as southern cattle tick, causes huge economic losses in the cattle industry. Its infestation affects the production of meat and milk and causes discomfort to hosts. In addition, it is the vector of Babesia spp. and Anaplasma spp. The most frequent method used to control these parasites is through synthetic acaricides. However, their indiscriminate use can be toxic for hosts and environment as well as cause selection of resistant ticks. Plant extracts and essential oils emerge as promising alternatives to manage tick infestation. Carvacrol, an aromatic monoterpene extracted from plants, has recognized antimicrobial, antioxidant, insecticidal, repellent and acaricidal activities. Acetylation of carvacrol is believed to enhance its nematicidal and acaricidal activities and to decrease its toxicity to hosts. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of acetylcarvacrol in the morphology of ovaries of engorged R. microplus ticks. The most remarkable morphological alterations found in the female germ cells were irregular and thicker chorion, decreasing in size and irregular shape of female germ cells (oocytes), cytoplasmatic vacuolization as well as ring-shaped nucleoli. These alterations were analyzed through a semi-quantitative method proposed in this study for ixodid ticks. Treatment group IV, which was exposed to 4.5 µL/mL of carvacrol acetate, showed the most significant alterations, and it was also statistically different when compared to control groups. Therefore, sublethal concentrations of acetylcarvacrol demonstrated to impact the reproductive system of R. microplus by causing several damages in the female germ cells. This would hinder the generation of new individuals, probably contributing for a long-term control of tick infestation.