Conditioned Medium From Reactive Astrocytes Inhibits Proliferation, Resistance, and Migration of p53-Mutant Glioblastoma Spheroid Through GLI-1 Downregulation.

Glioblastoma (GBM) aggressiveness is partly driven by the reactivation of signaling pathways such as Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and the interaction with its microenvironment. SHH pathway activation is one of the phenomena behind the glial transformation in response to tumor growth. The reactivation of the SHH signaling cascade during GBM-astrocyte interaction is highly relevant to understanding the mechanisms used by the tumor to modulate the adjacent stroma. The role of reactive astrocytes considering SHH signaling during GBM progression is investigated using a 3D in vitro model. T98G GBM spheroids displayed significant downregulation of SHH (61.4 ± 9.3%), GLI-1 (6.5 ± 3.7%), Ki-67 (33.7 ± 8.1%), and mutant MTp53 (21.3 ± 10.6%) compared to the CONTROL group when incubated with conditioned medium of reactive astrocytes (CM-AST). The SHH pathway inhibitor, GANT-61, significantly reduced previous markers (SHH = 43.0 ± 12.1%; GLI-1 = 9.5 ± 3.4%; Ki-67 = 31.9 ± 4.6%; MTp53 = 6.5 ± 7.5%) compared to the CONTROL, and a synergistic effect could be observed between GANT-61 and CM-AST. The volume (2.0 ± 0.2 × 107 µm³), cell viability (80.4 ± 3.2%), and migration (41 ± 10%) of GBM spheroids were significantly reduced in the presence of GANT-61 and CM-AST when compared to CM-AST after 72 h (volume = 2.3 ± 0.4 × 107 µm³; viability = 92.2 ± 6.5%; migration = 102.5 ± 14.6%). Results demonstrated that factors released by reactive astrocytes promoted a neuroprotective effect preventing GBM progression using a 3D in vitro model potentiated by SHH pathway inhibition.

Exploring the Role of Phenolic Compounds in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a formidable global health concern, affecting one in six adults over 25. This review explores the potential of phenolic compounds in managing CKD and its complications. By examining the existing research, we highlight their diverse biological activities and potential to combat CKD-related issues. We analyze the nutritional benefits, bioavailability, and safety profile of these compounds. While the clinical evidence is promising, preclinical studies offer valuable insights into underlying mechanisms, optimal dosages, and potential side effects. Further research is crucial to validate the therapeutic efficacy of phenolic compounds for CKD. We advocate for continued exploration of their innovative applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. This review aims to catalyze the scientific community's efforts to leverage phenolic compounds against CKD-related challenges.

Genetic Complexity of CC5 Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Associated with Sternal Bursitis in Chickens: Antimicrobial Resistance, Virulence, Plasmids, and Biofilm Formation.

Sternal bursitis, a common inflammatory condition in poultry, poses significant challenges to both animal welfare and public health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and genetic characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus isolates associated with sternal bursitis in chickens. Ninety-eight samples were collected from affected chickens, and 24 S. aureus isolates were identified. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed resistance to multiple agents, with a notable prevalence of aminoglycoside resistance genes. Whole genome sequencing elucidated the genetic diversity and virulence profiles of the isolates, highlighting the predominance of clonal complex 5 (CC5) strains. Additionally, biofilm formation assays demonstrated moderate biofilm production capacity among the isolates. These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of sternal bursitis in poultry production systems.

Beyond words: Semantic satiation and the mental accessibility of the concept of suicide.

Disrupting the accessibility of the mental representation of suicide may be a possible pathway to a strategy for suicide prevention. Our study aims to theoretically evaluate this perspective by examining the impact of temporarily disrupting the concept of suicide on perceptions of suicide. Using a within-subject design, we tested the effects of semantic satiation targeting the word "suicide" on the perceptual judgment of suicide-relevant pictures in 104 young adults. On each trial, participants repeated aloud one of the three words (i.e., "accident," "murder," or "suicide") either three times (priming) or 30 times (satiation) and indicated whether a subsequent picture matched with the word. Results indicated that satiation of the word "suicide" slowed the accurate categorization of pictures related to all three words, and satiation of "murder" and "accident" delayed participants' judgment of suicide-relevant pictures. Our findings support that semantic satiation can render the suicide concept temporarily less accessible, thereby providing preliminary support for the strategy of concept disruption in suicide prevention.

Effectiveness of short sprint interval training in women with major depressive disorder: a proof-of-concept study.

Background: High-intensity intermittent training has emerged as an option for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). However, short sprint training (sSIT), an efficient HIIT modality, has not been tested yet for this purpose. The sSIT has been proven to induce the same metabolic adaptations, with the advantage of promoting lower muscle fatigue than other HIIT protocols. Methods: Seventeen adult women diagnosed with moderate/severe MDD were randomly allocated into a sSIT group (n=9) or a control condition (n=8). The sSIT group completed, over two weeks, six 6-10-min sessions which consisted of 3-12 "all out" sprints of 5 s interspersed with low-intensity recovery of 30-45 s. The week before and after the intervention, both groups were evaluated with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale of 21-itens (HAM-D21), and for physical fitness and incidental physical activity. Results: The sSIT group exhibited significant improvements for HAM-D21 scores (24.6±8.2 vs. 16.8±10.1), maximum aerobic power (140±15 vs. 155±15 W), countermovement jump (13.0±3.4 vs. 14.9±3.1 cm), % of body fatness (32.4±4.4 vs. 29.3±3.8%), and 4-days number of steps (13,626±11,309 vs. 16,643±15,371) after the training period when compared to the control group. Conclusion: Less than 1 hour of a sSIT protocol over two weeks have demonstrated to reduce depressive symptoms, while improving aerobic fitness and body composition, and increasing incidental physical activity in a sample of women diagnosed with MDD.

Obesity differentially effects the somatosensory cortex and striatum of TgF344-AD rats.

Lifestyle choices leading to obesity, hypertension and diabetes in mid-life contribute directly to the risk of late-life Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, in late-life or in late-stage AD conditions, obesity reduces the risk of AD and disease progression. To examine the mechanisms underlying this paradox, TgF344-AD rats were fed a varied high-carbohydrate, high-fat (HCHF) diet to induce obesity from nine months of age representing early stages of AD to twelve months of age in which rats exhibit the full spectrum of AD symptomology. We hypothesized regions primarily composed of gray matter, such as the somatosensory cortex (SSC), would be differentially affected compared to regions primarily composed of white matter, such as the striatum. We found increased myelin and oligodendrocytes in the somatosensory cortex of rats fed the HCHF diet with an absence of neuronal loss. We observed decreased inflammation in the somatosensory cortex despite increased AD pathology. Compared to the somatosensory cortex, the striatum had fewer changes. Overall, our results suggest that the interaction between diet and AD progression affects myelination in a brain region specific manner such that regions with a lower density of white matter are preferentially affected. Our results offer a possible mechanistic explanation for the obesity paradox.

Obesity differentially effects the somatosensory cortex and striatum of TgF344-AD rats.

Lifestyle choices leading to obesity, hypertension and diabetes in mid-life contribute directly to the risk of late-life Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, in late-life or in late-stage AD conditions, obesity reduces the risk of AD and disease progression. To examine the mechanisms underlying this paradox, TgF344-AD rats were fed a varied high-carbohydrate, high-fat (HCHF) diet to induce obesity from nine months of age representing early stages of AD to twelve months of age in which rats exhibit the full spectrum of AD symptomology. We hypothesized regions primarily composed of gray matter, such as the somatosensory cortex (SSC), would be differentially affected compared to regions primarily composed of white matter, such as the striatum. We found increased myelin and oligodendrocytes in the somatosensory cortex of rats fed the HCHF diet with an absence of neuronal loss. We observed decreased inflammation in the somatosensory cortex despite increased AD pathology. Compared to the somatosensory cortex, the striatum had fewer changes. Overall, our results suggest that the interaction between diet and AD progression affects myelination in a brain region specific manner such that regions with a lower density of white matter are preferentially effected. Our results offer a possible mechanistic explanation for the obesity paradox.

Obesity Facilitates Sex-Specific Improvement In Cognition And Neuronal Function In A Rat Model Of Alzheimer's Disease.

Obesity reduces or increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) depending on whether it is assessed in mid-life or late-life. There is currently no consensus on the relationship between obesity and AD or the mechanism or their interaction. Here, we aim to differentiate the cause-and-effect relationship between obesity and AD in a controlled rat model of AD. We induced obesity in 9-month-old TgF344-AD rats, that is pathology-load wise similar to early symptomatic phase of human AD. To more accurately model human obesity, we fed both TgF344-AD and non-transgenic littermates a varied high-carbohydrate-high-fat diet consisting of human food for 3 months. Obesity increased overall glucose metabolism and slowed cognitive decline in TgF344-AD rats, specifically executive function, without affecting non-transgenic rats. Pathological analyses of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus showed that obesity in TgF344-AD rats produced varied effects, with increased density of myelin and oligodendrocytes, lowered density and activation of microglia that we propose contributes to the cognitive improvement. However, obesity also decreased neuronal density, and promoted deposition of amyloid-beta plaques and tau inclusions. After 6 months on the high-carbohydrate-high-fat diet, detrimental effects on density of neurons, amyloid-beta plaques, and tau inclusions persisted while the beneficial effects on myelin, microglia, and cognitive functions remained albeit with a lower effect size. By examining the effect of sex, we found that both beneficial and detrimental effects of obesity were stronger in female TgF344-AD rats indicating that obesity during early symptomatic phase of AD is protective in females.

Accounting for diversity in the treatment of suicide and self-injury: A systematic review of the past 50 years of randomized controlled trials.

PURPOSE: Patients receiving treatment for self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) have diverse backgrounds, yet it remains unclear exactly who is represented in the current SITB treatment literature. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of the past 50 years of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing SITB treatments to evaluate sampling practices and reporting of sample characteristics, as well as inclusion of global populations across the included 525 papers. We also assessed changes over the past five decades in these three domains. RESULTS: SITB RCTs frequently reported age and sex (98.6%-95.1%), less frequently reported race (83.4%-38.6%), socioeconomic status (48.1%-46.1%) and ethnicity (41.9%-8.1%), and rarely reported LGBTQ+ status (3.7%-1.6%). U.S.-based RCTs featured predominantly White, non-Hispanic, and non-LGBTQ+ samples. Most RCTs were conducted in high-income North American or European countries. Sample reporting practices, sample representativeness, and inclusion of global populations modestly and inconsistently improved over time. CONCLUSIONS: There has not been substantial improvement in reporting practices, sample representativeness, or inclusion of global populations in SITB RCTs over the past 50 years. Acknowledging who is being studied and representing diverse populations in SITB treatment research is key to connecting research advances with those who may need it most.

Anestesia balanceada em gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus) para realização de gastrotomia e enterotomia ­ relato de caso / Balanced anesthesia in pamps cat (Leopardus braccatus) for gastrotomy and enterotomy ­ case report / Anestesia balanceada en gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus) para gastrotomía y enterotomía ­ reporte de caso

Foi atendido no Hospital Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) - Campus Cuiabá, um gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus), macho, filhote e pesando 1,8kg. Após avaliação clínica e exames complementares diagnosticou-se presença de corpo estranho solido gástrico e intestinal. Como medicação pré-anestésica optou-se pela associação de cetamina (1mg/kg) e midazolam (0,2mg/kg), seguiu-se com a indução com propofol (à efeito) e manutenção anestésica por meio do fornecimento de isofluorano. Como técnica adicional utilizou-se epidural, com uma associação de lidocaína (4,5mg/kg) e morfina (0,1mg/kg). Durante o procedimento anestésico notou-se estabilidade das variáveis cardiovasculares e respiratórias, além de recuperação satisfatória ao final do procedimento.

Was attended to in the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) - Campus Cuiabá, a pantanal cat (Leopardus braccatus), male, puppy and weighing 1.8 kg. After clinical evaluation and complementary exams, the presence of a solid gastric and intestinal foreign body was diagnosed. As pre-anesthetic medication, the association of ketamine (1mg/kg) and midazolam (0.2mg/kg) was chosen, followed by induction with propofol (for effect) and anesthetic maintenance by supplying isoflurane. As an additional technique, an epidural was used, with an association of lidocaine (4.5mg/kg) and morphine (0.1mg/kg). During the anesthetic procedure, stability of cardiovascular and respiratory variables was observed, in addition to satisfactory recovery at the end of the procedure.

Ingresó en el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad Federal de Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) · Campus Cuiabá, un gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus), macho, cachorro y con un peso de 1,8 kg. Luego de evaluación clínica y exámenes complementarios se diagnosticó la presencia de cuerpo extraño sólido gástrico e intestinal. Como medicación preanestésica se optó por la asociación de ketamina (1 mg/kg) y midazolam (0,2 mg/kg), seguida de inducción con propofol (por efecto) y mantenimiento anestésico mediante suministro de isoflurano. Como técnica adicional se utilizó epidural, con asociación de lidocaína (4,5 mg/kg) y morfina (0,1 mg/kg). Durante el procedimiento anestésico se observó estabilidad de variables cardiovasculares y respiratorias, además de recuperación satisfactoria al final del procedimiento.

Teleconsulta de enfermagem: desenvolvimento de plataforma para atendimento de casos de Covid-19 / Nursing teleconsultation: development of a platform for Covid-19 case management / Telecosulta en enfermería: desarrollo de una plataforma para el manejo de casos de Covid-19

Objetivo: Desenvolver uma plataforma virtual de Teleconsulta para atendimento a casos suspeitos de Síndromes Gripais e infecção por COVID-19. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo de natureza aplicada, com desenvolvimento de produção tecnológica e inovadora, prospectivo, ecológico, descritivo, de série temporal. A população do estudo foi formada por qualquer pessoa sintomática para Síndromes Gripais por COVID-19, suspeitos ou confirmados, de qualquer local do Brasil. Este estudo foi realizado em duas etapas, a saber: Etapa I: Desenvolvimento da Aplicação para Plataforma de Teleconsulta. Etapa II: atendimento por meio de Teleconsulta de Casos suspeitos de COVID-19 e Sindromes Gripais. A metodologia utilizada para o desenvolvimento da aplicação proposta foi a modelagem por prototipação evolucionária. Resultados: Foram realizados 209 atendimentos na Plataforma de Teleconsulta, sendo 151 (70%) do sexo feminino e 65 (30%) do sexo masculino, com prevalência de idade variando de 20 a 29 anos (41%). Quanto ao risco de infecção por COVID-19, 42 (20%) tinham alto risco, 75 (36%) médio risco e 92 (44%) baixo risco. Os sintomas mais prevalentes foram: secreção nasal ou espirros (53%), dores no corpo (49%), dor de cabeça (47%), dor de garganta (46%), tosse seca (35%), Febre (31%), falta de ar (25%) e diarreia (23%). Inicialmente o teleatendimento foi composto por teletriagem com classificação de risco com base na sintomatologia dos pacientes que foram codificados com pontuações conforme a gravidade do sintoma para formas graves de COVID-19. A classificação de risco categorizou os pacientes em risco baixo (1 a 9 pontos), risco médio (10 a 19 pontos) e risco alto (20 a 36 pontos). Em seguida, a teleconsulta foi agendada conforme disponibilidade do paciente por meio do método SBAR para comunicação efetiva e ao término do atendimento um plano de cuidados com Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem ­ SAE era encaminhado ao paciente por meio de WhatsApp ou e-mail. Conclusão: A plataforma de teleconsulta possibilitou a triagem dos pacientes, reduziu as visitas desnecessárias às unidades de emergência, permitiu a avaliação e monitoramento dos casos, bem como o acompanhamento de pacientes ambulatoriais que não necessitam de avaliação presencial.

Objective: To develop a virtual Teleconsultation platform for care of suspected cases of influenza syndromes and infection by COVID-19. Methodology: This is a study of applied nature, with development of technological and innovative production, prospective, ecological, descriptive, time series. The study population was made up of any person symptomatic for COVID-19 influenza syndromes, suspected or confirmed, from any location in Brazil. This study was conducted in two stages, namely: Stage I: Development of the Application for Teleconsultation Platform. Stage II: care through Teleconsultation of suspected cases of COVID-19 and influenza syndromes. The methodology used to develop the proposed application was evolutionary prototyping modeling. Results: There were 209 consultations in the Teleconsultation Platform, 151 (70%) were female and 65 (30%) were male, with prevalence of age ranging from 20 to 29 years (41%). As for the risk of infection by COVID-19, 42 (20%) had high risk, 75 (36%) medium risk and 92 (44%) low risk. The most prevalent symptoms were: nasal discharge or sneezing (53%), body aches (49%), headache (47%), sore throat (46%), dry cough (35%), fever (31%), shortness of breath (25%), and diarrhea (23%). Initially, the telecare was composed of teletry with risk classification based on the symptomatology of the patients who were coded with scores according to symptom severity for severe forms of COVID-19. The risk classification categorized patients into low risk (1 to 9 points), medium risk (10 to 19 points), and high risk (20 to 36 points). Then, the teleconsultation was scheduled according to the patient's availability through the SBAR method for effective communication and at the end of the service a care plan with Nursing Assistance Systematization - SAE was forwarded to the patient through WhatsApp or e-mail. Conclusion: Teleconsultation platform enabled patient triage, reduced unnecessary visits to emergency units, allowed the evaluation and monitoring of cases, as well as the follow- up of outpatients who do not need face-to-face evaluation.

Objetivo: Desarrollar una plataforma de Teleconsulta virtual para atender casos sospechosos de síndromes gripales e infección por COVID-19. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio aplicado, con desarrollo de producción tecnológica e innovadora, prospectivo, ecológico, descriptivo, con serie de tiempo. La población de estudio estuvo formada por cualquier persona sintomática de síndromes gripales por COVID-19, sospechada o confirmada, de cualquier localidad de Brasil. Este estudio se realizó en dos etapas, a saber: Etapa I: Desarrollo de Aplicaciones para la Plataforma de Teleconsulta. Etapa II: atención mediante teleconsulta de casos sospechosos de COVID-19 y síndromes gripales. La metodología utilizada para el desarrollo de la aplicación propuesta fue el modelado por prototipo evolutivo. Resultados: Se realizaron 209 consultas en la Plataforma de Teleconsulta, 151 (70%) del sexo femenino y 65 (30%) del masculino, con prevalencia de edades entre 20 a 29 años (41%). En cuanto al riesgo de infección por COVID-19, 42 (20%) fueron de alto riesgo, 75 (36%) de riesgo medio y 92 (44%) de bajo riesgo. Los síntomas más prevalentes fueron: secreción nasal o estornudos (53%), dolor de cuerpo (49%), dolor de cabeza (47%), dolor de garganta (46%), tos seca (35%), fiebre (31%), falta de aliento (25%) y diarrea (23%). Inicialmente, la teleasistencia consistía en teleselección con clasificación de riesgo en función de la sintomatología de los pacientes a los que se codificaba con puntuaciones según la gravedad del síntoma para formas graves de COVID-19. La clasificación de riesgo clasificó a los pacientes en riesgo bajo (1 a 9 puntos), riesgo medio (10 a 19 puntos) y riesgo alto (20 a 36 puntos). Luego, se programó la teleconsulta de acuerdo a la disponibilidad del paciente a través del método SBAR para una comunicación efectiva y al final de la atención se remitió al paciente un plan de cuidados con Sistematización de Atención de Enfermería - SAE vía WhatsApp o correo electrónico. Conclusión: La plataforma de teleconsulta posibilitó el triaje de pacientes, redujo las visitas innecesarias a las unidades de emergencia, permitió la evaluación y seguimiento de casos, así como el seguimiento de pacientes ambulatorios que no requieren evaluación presencial.

High resting energy expenditure in women with episodic migraine: exploring the use of predictive formulas.

Introduction: Migraine is a common and disabling primary headache, and its pathophysiology is not fully understood. Previous studies have suggested that pain can increase humans' Resting Energy Expenditure (REE). However, no previous study has investigated whether the REE of individuals with migraine differs from the general population. Therefore, this study aims to assess whether the REE of women with migraine differs from that of women without headaches. We also tested the accuracy of REE predictive formulas in the migraine patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study involves 131 adult women aged between 18 and 65 years, 83 with migraine and 48 without (controls). We collected clinical, demographic, and anthropometric data. Migraine severity was measured using the Migraine Disability Test and Headache Impact Test, version 6. The REE was measured by indirect calorimetry, and it was compared with the predicted REE calculated by formulas. Results: Patients with migraine had higher REE when compared to controls (p < 0.01). There was a positive correlation between REE and the patient-reported number of migraine attacks per month (Rho = 0.226; p = 0.044). Mifflin-St Jeor and Henry and Rees were the predictive formulas that have more accuracy in predicting REE in women with migraine. Discussion: Considering the benefits of nutritional interventions on treating migraines, accurately measuring REE can positively impact migraine patient care. This study enhances our understanding of the relationship between pain and energy expenditure. Our results also provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals in selecting the most effective predictive formula to calculate energy expenditure in patients with migraine.

External Validation and Updating of a Statistical Civilian-Based Suicide Risk Model in US Naval Primary Care.

Importance: Suicide remains an ongoing concern in the US military. Statistical models have not been broadly disseminated for US Navy service members. Objective: To externally validate and update a statistical suicide risk model initially developed in a civilian setting with an emphasis on primary care. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective cohort study used data collected from 2007 through 2017 among active-duty US Navy service members. The external civilian model was applied to every visit at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), its NMCP Naval Branch Health Clinics (NBHCs), and TRICARE Prime Clinics (TPCs) that fall within the NMCP area. The model was retrained and recalibrated using visits to NBHCs and TPCs and updated using Department of Defense (DoD)-specific billing codes and demographic characteristics, including expanded race and ethnicity categories. Domain and temporal analyses were performed with bootstrap validation. Data analysis was performed from September 2020 to December 2022. Exposure: Visit to US NMCP. Main Outcomes and Measures: Recorded suicidal behavior on the day of or within 30 days of a visit. Performance was assessed using area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC), area under the precision recall curve (AUPRC), Brier score, and Spiegelhalter z-test statistic. Results: Of the 260 583 service members, 6529 (2.5%) had a recorded suicidal behavior, 206 412 (79.2%) were male; 104 835 (40.2%) were aged 20 to 24 years; and 9458 (3.6%) were Asian, 56 715 (21.8%) were Black or African American, and 158 277 (60.7%) were White. Applying the civilian-trained model resulted in an AUROC of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.74-0.79) and an AUPRC of 0.004 (95% CI, 0.003-0.005) at NBHCs with poor calibration (Spiegelhalter P < .001). Retraining the algorithm improved AUROC to 0.92 (95% CI, 0.91-0.93) and AUPRC to 0.66 (95% CI, 0.63-0.68). Number needed to screen in the top risk tiers was 366 for the external model and 200 for the retrained model; the lower number indicates better performance. Domain validation showed AUROC of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.90-0.91) and AUPRC of 0.01 (95% CI, 0.01-0.01), and temporal validation showed AUROC of 0.75 (95% CI, 0.72-0.78) and AUPRC of 0.003 (95% CI, 0.003-0.005). Conclusions and Relevance: In this cohort study of active-duty Navy service members, a civilian suicide attempt risk model was externally validated. Retraining and updating with DoD-specific variables improved performance. Domain and temporal validation results were similar to external validation, suggesting that implementing an external model in US Navy primary care clinics may bypass the need for costly internal development and expedite the automation of suicide prevention in these clinics.

Unlocking the Potential of Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) for Enhanced Agricultural Sustainability: From Environmental Benefits to Poultry Nutrition.

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the myriad applications of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) in agricultural contexts, with a particular emphasis on its role in fostering sustainable poultry production. Our examination spans three key domains: the use of SMS in fertilizers, its impact on environmental factors and gas emissions, and its contribution to poultry nutrition. This review synthesizes findings from multiple studies that underscore the potential of composted SMS as a viable alternative to conventional inorganic fertilizers, effectively meeting crop nutrient needs while mitigating groundwater contamination risks. Moreover, we highlight the substantial environmental advantages associated with the utilization of SMS and poultry waste, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of sustainable waste management practices. Additionally, we explore the promising outcomes of integrating SMS into animal feed formulations, which have demonstrated significant enhancements in livestock growth performance and overall health. In sum, this review underscores the versatility and untapped potential of SMS as a valuable agricultural resource, with a particular focus on its role in advancing sustainable practices, optimizing nutrient management, and harnessing the value of organic waste materials, especially in the context of poultry production.

DNA damage and repair: underlying mechanisms leading to microcephaly.

DNA-damaging agents and endogenous DNA damage constantly harm genome integrity. Under genotoxic stress conditions, the DNA damage response (DDR) machinery is crucial in repairing lesions and preventing mutations in the basic structure of the DNA. Different repair pathways are implicated in the resolution of such lesions. For instance, the non-homologous DNA end joining and homologous recombination pathways are central cellular mechanisms by which eukaryotic cells maintain genome integrity. However, defects in these pathways are often associated with neurological disorders, indicating the pivotal role of DDR in normal brain development. Moreover, the brain is the most sensitive organ affected by DNA-damaging agents compared to other tissues during the prenatal period. The accumulation of lesions is believed to induce cell death, reduce proliferation and premature differentiation of neural stem and progenitor cells, and reduce brain size (microcephaly). Microcephaly is mainly caused by genetic mutations, especially genes encoding proteins involved in centrosomes and DNA repair pathways. However, it can also be induced by exposure to ionizing radiation and intrauterine infections such as the Zika virus. This review explains mammalian cortical development and the major DNA repair pathways that may lead to microcephaly when impaired. Next, we discuss the mechanisms and possible exposures leading to DNA damage and p53 hyperactivation culminating in microcephaly.

Screening of Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities in Pomegranate, Quince, and Persimmon Leaf, Peel, and Seed: Valorization of Autumn Fruits By-Products for a One Health Perspective.

Antimicrobial resistance is increasing globally and is now one of the major public health problems. Therefore, there is a need to search for new antimicrobial agents. The food industry generates large amounts of by-products that are rich in bioactive compounds, such as phenolic compounds, which are known to have several health benefits, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Thus, we aimed to characterize the phenolic compounds present in pomegranate, quince, and persimmon by-products, as well as their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Phenolic compounds were extracted from pomegranate, quince, and persimmon leaves, seeds, and peels using a mixture of ethanol/water (80/20). The polyphenol profile of the extracts was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. In general, leaves showed higher concentrations of phenolics than the peel and seeds of fruits. In total, 23 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified, with sanguiin and apigenin-3-O-galactoside being present in the highest concentrations. Leaf extracts of pomegranate showed higher antioxidant activities than the other components in all methods used. In general, all extracts had a greater antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. Persimmon leaf and seed extracts inhibited a greater number of bacteria, both Gram-positive and -negative. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) detected among Gram-positive and -negative bacteria was 10 mg/mL for pomegranate peel and leaf extracts against Staphylococcus aureus and S. pseudintermedius and for pomegranate leaf extract against Escherichia coli. Our results reinforce the need to value food industry by-products that could be used as food preservatives and antibiotic adjuvants against multiresistant bacteria.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HBP-SCP) for the Brazilian Population

Abstract Background Self-care in the management of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is crucial, and validated instruments can help researchers and health professionals to plan strategies to improve self-care in people with SAH. Objective The main objective of this study was to translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validated the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HBP-SCP) for Brazilian Portuguese. Methods The translation and cross-cultural adaptation was performed in five phases, and the pre-final version was tested in 30 individuals, native speakers of Portuguese with a diagnosis of hypertension. The final version was administered in 100 individuals. The inclusion criteria were: diagnosis of SAH, characterized by systolic arterial blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic arterial blood pressure ≥ 90mmHg, regular use of antihypertensive medications and over 18 years of age. The present study also used two other questionnaires, previously validated for the Brazilian population, to verify the validity of the construct, the Healthy Habits Perception Questionnaire (HHPQ) and the Quality of Life in Hypertension Mini-Questionnaire (MINICHAL-BRASIL). Results During the translation and cross-cultural adaptation phase, there were no disagreements. Adequate reliability — intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ≥ 0.89, standard error of measurement (SEM) % ≤ 4.34, minimum detectable change (MDC) % ≤ 12.04 — and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.75) were observed. The behavior domain of HBP-SCP obtained significant correlations (p < 0.05) with the self-efficacy domain and HHPQ; the motivation domain with the self-efficacy domain; and the self-efficacy domain with the somatic manifestation domain of MINICHAL-BRASIL. No ceiling and floor effects were observed. Conclusions The Brazilian Portuguese version of the HBP-SCP has adequate psychometric properties, according to the best scientific recommendations.

Food consumption by degree of processing is associated with nocturnal dipping and blood pressure variability: The ELSA-Brasil study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) allows the assessment of cardiovascular risk markers that cannot be obtained by casual measurements; however, the evidence on the association between food consumption and blood pressure (BP) assessed by ABPM is scarce. We aimed to evaluate the association between food consumption by degree of processing and ambulatory BP. METHODS AND RESULTS: Cross-sectional analysis (2012-2014) of data from a subsample (n = 815) of ELSA-Brasil cohort participants who performed 24-h ABPM was conducted. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP means and variability during the 24 h and subperiods (sleep and wake), nocturnal dipping, and morning surge were evaluated. Food consumption was classified according to NOVA. Associations were tested by generalized linear models. The consumption of unprocessed, minimally processed foods, and culinary ingredients (U/MPF&CI) was 63.1% of daily caloric intake, 10.8% of processed (PF), and 24.8% of ultraprocessed (UPF). A negative association was found between U/MPF&CI consumption and extreme dipping (T2: odds ratio [OR] = 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55-0.58; T3: OR = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.54-0.57); and between UPF consumption and nondipping (T2: OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.55-0.85) and extreme dipping (T2: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.61-0.65; T3: OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.91-0.99). There was a positive association between PF consumption and extreme dipping (T2: OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.18-1.27; T3: OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.29-1.39) and sleep SBP variability (T3: Coef = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.03-1.10). CONCLUSIONS: The high consumption of PF was associated with greater BP variability and extreme dipping, while the U/MPF&CI and UPF consumption were negatively associated with alterations in nocturnal dipping.

Antibiotic Resistance among Gastrointestinal Bacteria in Broilers: A Review Focused on Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli.

Chickens can acquire bacteria at different stages, and bacterial diversity can occur due to production practices, diet, and environment. The changes in consumer trends have led to increased animal production, and chicken meat is one of the most consumed meats. To ensure high levels of production, antimicrobials have been used in livestock for therapeutic purposes, disease prevention, and growth promotion, contributing to the development of antimicrobial resistance across the resident microbiota. Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli are normal inhabitants of the gastrointestinal microbiota of chickens that can develop strains capable of causing a wide range of diseases, i.e., opportunistic pathogens. Enterococcus spp. isolated from broilers have shown resistance to at least seven classes of antibiotics, while E. coli have shown resistance to at least four. Furthermore, some clonal lineages, such as ST16, ST194, and ST195 in Enterococcus spp. and ST117 in E. coli, have been identified in humans and animals. These data suggest that consuming contaminated animal-source food, direct contact with animals, or environmental exposure can lead to the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Therefore, this review focused on Enterococcus spp. and E. coli from the broiler industry to better understand how antibiotic-resistant strains have emerged, which antibiotic-resistant genes are most common, what clonal lineages are shared between broilers and humans, and their impact through a One Health perspective.

Is physical pain causally related to suicidal behavior: An experimental test.

Existing evidence suggests a link between physical pain and suicide, but the nature of this relationship remains unknown. To address this critical gap in knowledge, the present study leveraged a validated virtual reality (VR) suicide paradigm to experimentally examine the causal effects of physical pain on subsequent virtual suicidal behaviors. Based on previous findings, we hypothesized that physical pain would causally drive virtual suicidal behavior only if suicide was conceptualized as having desirable anticipated consequences (e.g., a means of escaping from current pain; an opportunity to avoid future pain). We tested this by randomizing 326 participants across four different conditions: a physical pain condition, an anticipated escape condition, an anticipated avoidance condition, and a control condition. As predicted, physical pain alone did not result in statistically significant increases in VR suicide rates; however, the anticipation that virtual suicidal behavior would result in the avoidance of future physical pain had a large causal effect on VR suicide rates (B = 1.61, p < .001, IRR = 5.01). We failed to find evidence that anticipating that VR suicide would provide an escape from currently experienced physical pain increases the likelihood of VR suicide. Our findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the anticipated consequences of suicide (e.g., avoidance of future physical pain) may serve as primary causes of suicidal behavior.