Impact of Cuminaldehyde and Indomethacin Co-Administration on Inflammatory Responses in MIA-Induced Osteoarthritis in Rats.

Osteoarthritis (OA) remains a chronic incurable condition, presenting substantial challenges in treatment. This study explores a novel strategy by investigating the concurrent use of cuminaldehyde, a natural compound, with indomethacin in animal models of MIA-induced OA. Our results demonstrate that the co-administration of cuminaldehyde and indomethacin does indeed produce a superior effect when compared to these compounds individually, significantly enhancing therapeutic outcomes. This effect is evidenced by a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IFN-γ, alongside a significant increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, compared to treatments with each compound alone. Radiographic analyses further confirm the preservation of joint integrity and a reduction in osteoarthritic damage, highlighting the association's efficacy in cartilage-reducing damage. These findings suggests that the association of cuminaldehyde and indomethacin not only slows OA progression but also offers enhanced cartilage-reducing damage and fosters the production of protective cytokines. This study underscores the potential benefits of integrating natural products with pharmaceuticals in OA management and stresses the importance of further research to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the observed potentiated effects.

Brazilian Amazon Red Propolis: Leishmanicidal Activity and Chemical Composition of a New Variety of Red Propolis.

Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoans of the genus Leishmania, and its treatment is highly toxic, leading to treatment discontinuation and the emergence of resistant strains. In this study, we assessed the leishmanicidal activity and chemical composition of red propolis collected from the Amazon-dominated region of northern Tocantins State, Brazil. The MTT assay was employed to determine the samples' activity against Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and their cytotoxicity against RAW macrophages. Spectrophotometric assays were utilised to measure the concentrations of total phenolics and flavonoids, while high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) was used to determine the chemical composition. An in silico study was conducted to evaluate which compounds from Brazilian Amazon red propolis may correlate with this biological activity. Brazilian Amazon red propolis exhibited a high concentration of phenolic compounds and an inhibitory activity against L. amazonensis, with an IC50 ranging from 23.37 to 36.10 µg/mL. Moreover, fractionation of the propolis yielded a fraction with enhanced bioactivity (16.11 µg/mL). Interestingly, neither the propolis nor its most active fraction showed cytotoxicity towards macrophages at concentrations up to 200 µg/mL. The red colour and the presence of isoflavonoid components (isoflavones, isoflavans, and pterocarpans) confirm that the substance is Brazilian red propolis. However, the absence of polyprenylated benzophenones suggests that this is a new variety of Brazilian red propolis. The in silico study performed with two of the main leishmanicidal drug targets using all compounds identified in Amazon red propolis reported that liquiritigenin was the compound that exhibited the best electronic interaction parameters, which was confirmed in an assay with promastigotes using a standard. The findings indicate that Amazon red propolis possesses leishmanicidal activity, low toxicity, and significant biotechnological potential.

Molecular mechanisms of action and chemosensitization of tumor cells in ovarian cancer by phytochemicals: A narrative review on pre-clinical and clinical studies.

Ovarian cancer is the second-leading cause of death among women with cancer of the genital tract. Currently, drugs derived from platinum and taxanes constitute the majority of ovarian cancer treatments. Patients undergoing this chemotherapy are susceptible to cumulative toxic effects and resistance to chemotherapy. Therefore, it is crucial to identify treatment options that are both more effective and better tolerated by patients. Phytochemicals in this context are plant-derived chemicals with antitumor activity that can be used as therapeutic or adjuvant agents in the treatment of ovarian cancer. Consequently, the purpose of this literature review is to demonstrate through existing pre-clinical and clinical trials the potential of phytochemicals in the treatment of ovarian cancer, the mechanisms of action involved, and to contribute to the development of new therapeutic options for ovarian cancer. For this review, the databases PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and ClinicalTrials.gov were queried between 2010 and 2022 using terms such as "ovarian cancer," "phytochemicals," "phenolic compounds," "terpenes," and "alkaloids." The present review summarized the possible molecular mechanisms of action by which phytochemicals, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, diterpenes, triterpenes, saponins, and alkaloids, inhibit this type of cancer, specifically the ability of phytochemicals to induce cell growth regulation, apoptosis, oxidative stress reduction, anti-angiogenesis, and chemosensitization of tumors in ovarian cancer. As their action and cellular mechanism have already been demonstrated in several pre-clinical trials, the phytochemicals identified in our study have the potential to be investigated for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Through pre-clinical and clinical trials, our study demonstrates the potential of phytochemicals in the treatment of ovarian cancer, contributing to the development of novel therapeutic options for ovarian cancer.

Cuminaldehyde Effects in a MIA-Induced Experimental Model Osteoarthritis in Rat Knees.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease that has a significant global impact. It is associated with aging and characterized by widespread joint destruction. Cuminaldehyde is a biologically active component of essential oils that has shown promise in the treatment of nociceptive and inflammatory diseases. This study investigated the effects of cuminaldehyde on an experimental model of osteoarthritis induced in rat knees. Cuminaldehyde was found to be as effective as indomethacin in reducing pain in all evaluated tests, including forced walking, functional disability of weight distribution on the legs, and spontaneous pain in animals with osteoarthritis. The knees of animals treated with cuminaldehyde had significantly higher radiographic and histopathological scores than those of animals that did not receive the treatment. Cuminaldehyde also modulated the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In vitro assays showed that cuminaldehyde preferentially inhibits COX-2 enzyme activity. In silico studies demonstrated that cuminaldehyde has satisfactory energy affinity parameters with opioid receptors and COX-2. These findings suggest that cuminaldehyde's anti-inflammatory activity is multifactorial, acting through multiple pathways. Its nociceptive activity occurs via central and peripheral mechanisms. Cuminaldehyde modulates the immune response of the inflammatory process and may be considered a leading compound for the development of new anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs.

Stress reduction interventions for patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers: a qualitative study into patients and caregivers' perceptions.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to assess the perceptions of patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and their family caregivers regarding the impact of two stress reduction interventions on DFU and psychological wellbeing. The intervention included progressive muscle relaxation and hypnosis sessions. METHODS: This study used a qualitative exploratory design and included individual interviews with eight patients with chronic DFUs and six family caregivers, using a semi-structured interview guide. Transcript analysis employed thematic content analysis. RESULTS: Four key themes common to patients and their caregivers were found: 1) perspectives regarding the intervention; 2) intervention effectiveness; 3) perceived importance of psychology in the DFU treatment; and 4) emotional consequences associated with DFUs. Although themes were common to both intervention groups, sub-themes from the last two themes differed for patients that received muscle relaxation versus those who received hypnosis. CONCLUSION: Patients and caregivers reported perceived benefits from both interventions, regarding DFU healing and emotional wellbeing. Patients who received hypnosis and their caregivers also reported lasting effects. Participants suggested that psychological interventions such as stress reduction interventions could be included in the DFU standard treatment as an adjuvant to the clinical protocol for DFU treatment, preferably offered early on, when patients begin treatment at the diabetic foot consultation.

Chemical Characterization and Leishmanicidal Activity In Vitro and In Silico of Natural Products Obtained from Leaves of Vernonanthura brasiliana (L.) H. Rob (Asteraceae).

Vernonanthura brasiliana (L.) H. Rob is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of several infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antileishmanial activity of V. brasiliana leaves using in vitro and in silico approaches. The chemical composition of V. brasiliana leaf extract was determined through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The inhibitory activity against Leishmania amazonensis promastigote was evaluated by the MTT method. In silico analysis was performed using Lanosterol 14alpha-demethylase (CYP51) as the target. The toxicity analysis was performed in RAW 264.7 cells and Tenebrio molitor larvae. LC-MS revealed the presence of 14 compounds in V. brasiliana crude extract, including flavonoids, flavones, sesquiterpene lactones, and quinic acids. Eriodictol (ΔGbind = -9.0), luteolin (ΔGbind = -8.7), and apigenin (ΔGbind = -8.6) obtained greater strength of molecular interaction with lanosterol demethylase in the molecular docking study. The hexane fraction of V. brasiliana showed the best leishmanicidal activity against L. amazonensis in vitro (IC50 12.44 ± 0.875 µg·mL-1) and low cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells (CC50 314.89 µg·mL-1, SI = 25.30) and T. molitor larvae. However, the hexane fraction and Amphotericin-B had antagonistic interaction (FICI index ≥ 4.0). This study revealed that V. brasiliana and its metabolites are potential sources of lead compounds for drugs for leishmaniasis treatment.

Atividade física: a importância dessa pratica no envelhecimento / Physical activity: the importance of this practice in aging / Actividad física: la importancia de esta práctica en el envejecimiento

Objetivo: descrever a importância da atividade física no envelhecimento. Método: abordagem qualitativa e o método de revisão bibliográfica integrativa. A coleta dos dados deu-se em literatura nacional indexada no banco de dados da Scielo. Foram analisados 16 artigos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão previamente estabelecidos. Resultados: evidenciou-se que a realização de atividade física, sem dúvida age diretamente na esfera biológica do envelhecimento, trazendo benefícios aos sistemas que se comprometem na terceira idade, dentre esses se podem citar o controle da pressão arterial, a melhora da capacidade cardiovascular, respiratória, amplitude da mobilidade, menor risco de doenças, e a prevenção de alguns tipos de câncer. Conclusão: O enfermeiro da atenção básica pode se atribuir de várias metodologias de trabalho, como a formação de grupos, onde ele, articulando-se com a equipe multiprofissional, pode desenvolver tanto para os cuidadores quanto para os idosos, ações reflexivas e motivadoras, que os possibilite perceberem o envelhecimento como um processo benigno e não patológico.

Objective: To describe the importance of physical activity in aging. Method: Qualitative approach and the integrative literature review method. Data collection took place in national literature indexed in the Scielo database. 16 articles that met the previously established inclusion criteria were analyzed. Results: It was evidenced that the practice of physical activity undoubtedly acts directly on the biological sphere of aging, bringing benefits to the systems that are compromised in old age, among these can be mentioned the control of blood pressure, improvement of cardiovascular and respiratory capacity, mobility, lower risk of disease, and the prevention of some types of cancer. Conclusion: The basic care nurse can assume various work methodologies, such as the formation of groups, where he or she, working together with the multidisciplinary team, can develop both for carers and the elderly, reflective and motivating actions that enable them to perceive aging as a benign and non-pathological process.

Objetivo: Describir la importancia de la actividad física en el envejecimiento. Método: Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo y un método de revisión bibliográfica integrador. La recolección de datos se realizó en la literatura nacional indexada en la base de datos de SciELO. Se analizaron 16 artículos que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión previamente establecidos. Resultados: Se evidenció que la realización de actividad física actúa directamente en la esfera biológica del envejecimiento, trayendo beneficios a los sistemas comprometidos en la tercera edad. Entre ellos, se puede mencionar el control de la presión arterial, la mejora de la capacidad cardiovascular, la respiración, la amplitud de movilidad, un menor riesgo de enfermedades y la prevención de algunos tipos de cáncer. Conclusión: El enfermero de atención primaria puede utilizar diversas metodologías de trabajo, como la formación de grupos, en conjunto con el equipo multidisciplinario, para desarrollar acciones reflexivas y motivadoras para los cuidadores y los ancianos, permitiéndoles percibir el envejecimiento como un proceso benigno en lugar de patológico.

The Anti-Virulence Effect of Vismia guianensis against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata.

In folk medicine, Vismia guianensis is used to treat skin diseases and mycoses in the Amazon region. We evaluated the anti-Candida activity of the hydroalcoholic extract from the leaves of Vismia guianensis (EHVG). HPLC-PDA and FIA-ESI-IT-MSn were used to chemically characterize EHVG. The anti-Candida activity was determined in vitro by the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) against Candida glabrata (ATCC-2001); Candida albicans (ATCC-90028, ATCC-14053, and ATCC-SC5314), and C. albicans clinical isolates. EHVG effects on adhesion, growth, and biofilm formation were also determined. Molecular docking was used to predict targets for EHVG compounds. The main compounds identified included anthraquinone, vismione D, kaempferol, quercetin, and vitexin. EHVG was fungicidal against all tested strains. C. albicans ATCC 14053 and C. glabrata ATCC 2001 were the most sensitive strains, as the extract inhibited their virulence factors. In silico analysis indicated that vismione D presented the best antifungal activity, since it was the most effective in inhibiting CaCYP51, and may act as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, according to the online PASS prediction. Overall, the data demonstrate that EHVG has an anti-Candida effect by inhibiting virulence factors of the fungi. This activity may be related to its vismione D content, indicating this compound may represent a new perspective for treating diseases caused by Candida sp.

Anti-Candida albicans Activity of Ononin and Other Secondary Metabolites from Platonia Insignis MART.

Candida albicans is a human pathogen that is part of the healthy microbiome. However, it is often associated with opportunistic fungal infections. The treatment of these infections is challenging because prolonged exposure to antifungal drugs can culminate in fungal resistance during therapy, and there is a limited number of available drugs. Therefore, this study investigated the antifungal activity of ononin by in silico and in vitro assays, and in Tenebrio molitor as an alternative in vivo model of infection caused by C. albicans. Ononin is an isoflavone glycoside derived from formononetin that has various biological activities. According in silico evaluation, ononin showed the best electron affinity in molecular docking with CaCYP51, with a binding free energy of -10.89 kcal/mol, superior to that of the antifungal drugs fluconazole and posaconazole. The ononin + CaCYP51 complex formed hydrogen bonds with Tyr132, Ser378, Phe380, and Met508, as well as hydrophobic connections with Tyr118, Leu121, Phe126, Leu131, Ile304, and Leu309, and interactions with the heme group. Ononin exerted anti-Candida albicans activity, with MIC between 3.9 and 7.8 µg/mL, and inhibited young and mature biofilms, with a reduction in cell density and metabolic activity of 50 to 80%. The compound was not cytotoxic to sheep red blood cells at concentrations up to 1000 µg/mL. Larvae of the mealworm T. molitor were used as an alternative in vivo model of C. albicans infection. Ononin was able to prolong larval survival at concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 5 mg/kg, and was not toxic up to a concentration of 20 mg/kg. Moreover, ononin reduced the fungal charge in treated animals. In conclusion, our results suggest that ononin has anti-Candida albicans activity and is a potential candidate for the development of new therapeutic alternatives.

Feasibility and Effectiveness of the Exercise Program in Endometrial Cancer; Feasibility and Acceptability Survivorship Trial (EPEC-FAST).

To evaluate the feasibility of an individualized exercise program in the standard care for endometrial cancer patients aimed to improve quality of life and other health outcomes. This was a single-arm prospective intervention trial to assess the feasibility of an individualized exercise intervention in endometrial cancer patients after treatment. The exercise intervention consisted of weekly individualized training sessions, for 10 weeks, at a local gym facility. The program started six weeks post-operatively. Primary outcomes were feasibility aspects including number of eligible patients, recruitment and adherence rates. Secondary outcomes included quality of life outcomes and anthropometric measures. A total of 54 women were eligible for participation, of which 22 (41%) consented to the study. Overall attendance was 86%, and there were no adverse events. There was a significant improvement in quality of life outcomes, including role (p = 0.02), emotional (p = 0.02) and cognitive functioning (p = 0.04). In addition, there was a significant improvement in visceral fat percentage (p = 0.039) and physical fitness (six-minute walk test p < 0.001). The maximum weight loss achieved was 6.0 kg after 3 months and 8.4 kg after 6 months. An individualized one-to-one exercise intervention in endometrial cancer patients is feasible in terms of recruitment, adherence and safety.

Plant Metabolites as SARS-CoV-2 Inhibitors Candidates: In Silico and In Vitro Studies.

Since it acquired pandemic status, SARS-CoV-2 has been causing all kinds of damage all over the world. More than 6.3 million people have died, and many cases of sequelae are in survivors. Currently, the only products available to most of the world's population to fight the pandemic are vaccines, which still need improvement since the number of new cases, admissions into intensive care units, and deaths are again reaching worrying rates, which makes it essential to compounds that can be used during infection, reducing the impacts of the disease. Plant metabolites are recognized sources of diverse biological activities and are the safest way to research anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds. The present study computationally evaluated 55 plant compounds in five SARS-CoV-2 targets such Main Protease (Mpro or 3CL or MainPro), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), Papain-Like Protease (PLpro), NSP15 Endoribonuclease, Spike Protein (Protein S or Spro) and human Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) followed by in vitro evaluation of their potential for the inhibition of the interaction of the SARS-CoV-2 Spro with human ACE-2. The in silico results indicated that, in general, amentoflavone, 7-O-galloylquercetin, kaempferitrin, and gallagic acid were the compounds with the strongest electronic interaction parameters with the selected targets. Through the data obtained, we can demonstrate that although the indication of individual interaction of plant metabolites with both Spro and ACE-2, the metabolites evaluated were not able to inhibit the interaction between these two structures in the in vitro test. Despite this, these molecules still must be considered in the research of therapeutic agents for treatment of patients affected by COVID-19 since the activity on other targets and influence on the dynamics of viral infection during the interaction Spro x ACE-2 should be investigated.

Consequências do parto cesárea sem indicação clínica / Consequences of cesarean delivery without clinical indication / Consecuencias de la cesárea sin indicación clínica

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento sobre as consequências do parto cesárea sem indicação clínica por mulheres da rede privada. Método: A metodologia utilizada foi de abordagem qualitativa e método descritivo seguindo os pressupostos de Minayo. Resultados: A coleta de dados ocorreu em uma página virtual da rede social Facebook designada Espaço Gestante. Teve como critérios de inclusão para participar mulheres que tiveram parto cesárea sem indicação clínica e que tiverem idade igual ou superior a 18 anos, que aceitaram o convite e concordaram com o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. A entrevista ocorreu por meio da ferramenta de formulário Google Forms, onde as participantes responderam a um questionário de 7 perguntas norteadoras. A análise de dados ocorreu concomitantemente a coleta de dados, seguidamente foram transcritos e agrupados conforme a semelhança. Nos resultados foram entrevistadas 5 mulheres com idade entre 23 e 42 anos, que tiveram ao menos uma cesárea. Conclusão: Na discussão foram apresentadas 6 categorias, dentre elas a de maior relevância a orientação sobre riscos e consequência da cesárea sem indicação clinica onde se revela divergência quanto as orientações recebidas de riscos do procedimento. É preciso ser analisado o nível de importância dado ao acesso as informações pelas mulheres sobre indicação, riscos maternos e fetais e o seu direito a participar efetivamente no processo de decisão da escolha da via de parto.

Objective: to analyze the knowledge about the consequences of cesarean delivery without clinical indication by women in the private network. Method: The methodology used was a qualitative approach and descriptive method following the assumptions of Minayo. Results: Data collection took place on a virtual page of the social network Facebook called Espaço Gestante. The inclusion criteria for participating were women who had cesarean delivery without clinical indication and who were 18 years of age or older, who accepted the invitation and agreed to the Free and Informed Consent Form. The interview took place through the Google Forms form tool, where the participants answered a questionnaire with 7 guiding questions. Data analysis occurred concomitantly with data collection, then they were transcribed and grouped according to similarity. In the results, 5 women aged between 23 and 42 were interviewed, who had at least one cesarean section. Conclusion: In the discussion, 6 categories were presented, among them the most relevant guidance on risks and consequences of cesarean section without clinical indication, where divergence regarding the guidelines received on the risks of the procedure is revealed. It is necessary to analyze the level of importance given to access to information by women about indication, maternal and fetal risks and their right to effectively participate in the decision-making process of choosing the route of delivery

Objetivo: analizar el conocimiento sobre las consecuencias del parto por cesárea sin indicación clínica por parte de las mujeres en la red privada. Método: La metodología utilizada fue de enfoque cualitativo y método descriptivo siguiendo los supuestos de Minayo. Resultados: La recolección de datos ocurrió en una página virtual de la red social Facebook llamada Espaço Gestante. Los criterios de inclusión para participar fueron mujeres que tuvieron parto por cesárea sin indicación clínica y que tenían 18 años o más, que aceptaron la invitación y accedieron al Término de Consentimiento Libre e Informado. La entrevista se realizó a través de la herramienta de formularios Google Forms, donde los participantes respondieron un cuestionario con 7 preguntas orientadoras. El análisis de los datos ocurrió concomitantemente con la recolección de los datos, luego fueron transcritos y agrupados de acuerdo con la similitud. En los resultados se entrevistaron 5 mujeres con edades entre 23 y 42 años, que tuvieron al menos una cesárea. Conclusión: En la discusión se presentaron 6 categorías, entre ellas las orientaciones más relevantes sobre riesgos y consecuencias de la cesárea sin indicación clínica, donde se revela divergencia en cuanto a las orientaciones recibidas sobre los riesgos del procedimiento. Es necesario analizar el nivel de importancia otorgado al acceso a la información por parte de las mujeres sobre la indicación, los riesgos maternos y fetales y su derecho a participar efectivamente en el proceso de toma de decisiones de elección de la vía del parto

A presença paterna no momento do parto / Pregnancy: implications for the pregnant woman's life / Embarazo: implicaciones para la vida de la embarazada

Objetivo: analisar a relevância da presença paterna no momento do parto. Método: estudo de abordagem qualitativa e método descritivo. A coleta dos dados se deu por meio de entrevista com 12 (doze) puérperas, com idade entre 18 e 41 anos, em uma maternidade da rede pública do Distrito Federal. Resultados: todas as entrevistadas compareceram às consultas de atendimento pré-natal, 92% delas tinham conhecimento prévio da lei do acompanhante, 58% receberam alguma orientação relativa ao seu próprio direito e de seu acompanhante, e todas foram acompanhadas pelo pai no momento do parto. A discussão das perguntas abertas gerou duas categorias, a saber: a participação do pai no momento do parto, e a vivência da parturiente durante o parto. Conclusão: a presença do companheiro é positiva e tranquilizadora no momento do parto e sugere-se a continuidade da formação dos profissionais de enfermagem neste tema, com o intuito de uma constante melhora no atendimento às mulheres no momento do parto, respeitando a lei e principalmente as escolhas da mãe, proporcionando um parto humanizado e seguro, minimizando traumas e medos

Objective: to analyze the relevance of paternal presence at the time of delivery. Method: qualitative study and descriptive method. Data were collected through interviews with 12 (twelve) puerpers, aged between 18 and 41 years, in a maternity hospital in the public network of the Federal District. Results: all interviewees attended prenatal care consultations, 92% of them had prior knowledge of the companion's law, 58% received some guidance regarding their own right and companion, and all were accompanied by the father at the time of delivery. The discussion of the open questions generated two categories, namely: the participation of the father at the time of delivery, and the experience of the parturient during childbirth. Conclusion: the presence of the partner is positive and reassuring at the time of delivery and it is suggested the continuity of the training of nursing professionals in this theme, with the aim of a constant improvement in the care of women at the time of delivery, respecting the law and especially the mother's choices, providing a humanized and safe delivery, minimizing traumas and fears.

Objetivo: analizar la relevancia de la presencia paterna en el momento del parto. Método: estudio cualitativo y método descriptivo. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de entrevistas con 12 (doce) puerpers, con edades entre 18 y 41 años, en una maternidad de la red pública del Distrito Federal. Resultados: todas las entrevistadas asistieron a consultas de atención prenatal, 92% de ellas tenían conocimiento previo de la ley del acompañante, 58% recibieron alguna orientación sobre su propio derecho y acompañante, y todas fueron acompañadas por el padre en el momento del parto. La discusión de las preguntas abiertas generó dos categorías, a saber: la participación del padre en el momento del parto y la experiencia de la parturienta durante el parto. Conclusión: la presencia de la pareja es positiva y tranquilizadora en el momento del parto y se sugiere la continuidad de la formación de los profesionales de enfermería en este tema, con el objetivo de una mejora constante en el cuidado de las mujeres en el momento del parto, respetando la ley y especialmente las opciones de la madre, proporcionando un parto humanizado y seguro, minimizando traumas y miedos.

Violência obstétrica: relatos de experiência vivenciada / Obstetric violence: reports of lived experience / Violencia obstétrica: reporte experiencia de vida

Objetivo: descrever a influência da violência obstétrica no puerpério. O tema abordado nesse estudo trata-se da violência obstétrica sendo um termo usado para denominar os diversos tipos de agressão, seja: físico, verbal, moral ou psicológico; sofrido pela mulher no pré-natal, parto, pós- parto e/ou no puerpério. Este estudo apresenta o seguinte problema de pesquisa: "De que maneira a violência obstétrica interfere no puerpério?" Método: estudo de abordagem qualitativa e método descritivo. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de questionários disponibilizados na ferramenta digital Google Forms, bem como, enviados via e-mail das entrevistadas. Para a realização deste estudo foram entrevistadas 7 mulheres da instituição Matriusca com a faixa etária entre 18 a 61 anos que passaram por violência obstétrica no período do pré-natal, parto, pós-parto e/ou puerpério. Resultados: foram encontrados originaram 3 categorias para a discussão intituladas: conhecimento sobre violência obstétrica, formas de violência obstétrica e sentimento após sofrer a violência obstétrica. Conclusão: a violência obstétrica permanece sendo vivenciada, percebida em diversos momentos da gestação desde o trabalho de parto até o puerpério. A mulher vítima desta violência leva consigo muito além das complexidades de um puerpério agravado, convive com sentimentos negativos e traumas que podem resultar em marcas para toda a vida, eis aqui grande desafio para a enfermagem.

Objective: to describe the influence of obstetric violence in the puerperium. The theme addressed in this study is obstetric violence being a term used to name the various types of aggression, namely: physical, verbal, moral or psychological; suffered by the woman in prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum and/or in the puerperium. This study presents the following research problem: "How does obstetric violence interfere in the puerperium?" Method: qualitative study and descriptive method. Data were collected through questionnaires made available in the Google Forms digital tool, as well as sent via e-mail of the interviewees. For this study, 7 women from the Matriusca institution were interviewed aged between 18 and 61 years who underwent obstetric violence during prenatal, childbirth, postpartum and/or postpartum Results: three categories were found for the discussion entitled: knowledge about obstetric violence, forms of obstetric violence and feeling after suffering obstetric violence. Conclusion: obstetric violence continues to be experienced, perceived at various moments of pregnancy from labor to the puerperium. The woman victim of this violence takes with her far beyond the complexities of an aggravated puerperium, lives with negative feelings and traumas that can result in marks for life, here is a great challenge for nursing.

Objetivo: describir la influencia de la violencia obstétrica en el puerperio. El tema abordado en este estudio es la violencia obstétrica siendo un término utilizado para nombrar los diversos tipos de agresión, a saber: física, verbal, moral o psicológica; sufridos por la mujer en atención prenatal, parto, postparto y/o en el puerperio. Este estudio presenta el siguiente problema de investigación: "¿Cómo interfiere la violencia obstétrica en el puerperio?" Método: estudio cualitativo y método descriptivo. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de cuestionarios disponibles en la herramienta digital Google Forms, así como enviados por correo electrónico de los entrevistados. Para este estudio, 7 mujeres de la institución Matriusca fueron entrevistadas con edades entre 18 y 61 años que sufrieron violencia obstétrica durante el prenatal, parto, posparto y/o posparto. Resultados: se encontraron tres categorías para la discusión titulada: conocimiento sobre violencia obstétrica, formas de violencia obstétrica y sentimiento después de sufrir violencia obstétrica. Conclusión: la violencia obstétrica continúa siendo experimentada, percibida en varios momentos del embarazo, desde el parto hasta el puerperio. La mujer víctima de esta violencia lleva consigo mucho más allá de las complejidades de un puerperio agravado, vive con sentimientos negativos y traumas que pueden resultar en marcas para la vida, aquí hay un gran desafío para la enfermería

O conhecimento a respeito da Manobra de Heimlich por mães da rede social Facebook / The Knowledge about the Hemlich Manuver by mothers on the Facebook social network / El conocimiento de la Maniobra de Heimlich por parte de las madres en la red social Facebook

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento a respeito da Manobra de Heimlich por mães da rede social Facebook, tendo como problema de pesquisa o seguinte questionamento: "Durante o pré-natal na rede pública a mãe recebeu orientações sobre a manobra de Heimlich? Que conhecimento as mães tem sobre a manobra de Heimlich." Método: Foi utilizada a abordagem qualitativa e método descritivo para este estudo, seguindo os pressupostos de Ludke e André (1986). Resultados: Foram entrevistadas 7 mulheres com idade entre 23 e 40 anos que responderam os questionamentos a respeito da Manobra de Heimlich no pré-natal e falaram sobre seus conhecimentos prévios a respeito do tema. Conclusão: As entrevistas realizadas revelam que as mulheres possuem conhecimento superficial a respeito da Manobra de Heimlich, no entanto esse conhecimento não foi obtido em seu pré-natal, mas sim por conta própria ou por necessidade.

Objective: to analyze the knowledge about the Heimlich Maneuver by mothers of the social network Facebook, having as research problem the following question: "During prenatal care in the public network the mother received guidance on the Heimlich maneuver? What knowledge do mothers have about the Heimlich maneuver." Method: The qualitative approach and descriptive method for this study were used, following the assumptions of Ludke and André (2008). Results: We interviewed 7 women aged between 23 and 40 years old who answered the questions about the Heimlich Maneuver in prenatal care and talked about their previous knowledge about the subject. Conclusion: The interviews revealed that women have superficial knowledge about the Heimlich Maneuver, however this knowledge was not obtained in their prenatal care, but rather on their own or by necessity.

Objetivo: analizar el conocimiento sobre la Maniobra de Heimlich por parte de las madres de la red social Facebook, teniendo como problema de investigación la siguiente pregunta: "¿Durante la atención prenatal en la red pública la madre recibió orientación sobre la maniobra de Heimlich? ¿Qué conocimiento tienen las madres sobre la maniobra de Heimlich?" Método: Se utilizó el enfoque cualitativo y el método descriptivo para este estudio, siguiendo los supuestos de Ludke y André (2008). Resultados: Entrevistamos a 7 mujeres de entre 23 y 40 años que respondieron a las preguntas sobre la Maniobra de Heimlich en la atención prenatal y hablaron sobre sus conocimientos previos sobre el tema. Conclusión: Las entrevistas revelaron que las mujeres tienen conocimientos superficiales sobre la Maniobra de Heimlich, sin embargo este conocimiento no se obtuvo en su atención prenatal, sino por su cuenta o por necesidad.

Interdigitated Electrode for Electrical Characterization of Commercial Pseudo-Binary Biodiesel-Diesel Blends.

Non-standard diesel blends can be harmful to the environment and human health. In this context, a simple analytical method to estimate the biodiesel mixture ratio in diesel was developed based on impedance spectroscopy (IS) associated with interdigitated sensors. In this article, four different interdigitated sensors with varied comb spacing (G) were simulated using the COMSOL Multiphysics software. Based on finite element simulations, four interdigitated electrode architectures were manufactured and evaluated. The best geometry was chosen according to theoretical data simulations, and its interdigitated electrodes were manufactured for the compositional evaluation of pseudo-binary biodiesel-diesel mixtures. According to the X-ray powder diffraction technique, the deposition of the conductive layer (Au0) over the surface of the dielectric substrate (SiO2) did not alter its phase composition. In the analysis of AFM and SEM, it was possible to observe irregular edges on the electrodes, possibly related to the manufacturing process of the thin layers and mechanical stability. Another characteristic observed in the AFM images was the height of the step of the gold layer of the sensor. Several cross sections were obtained, and the mean step value was 225.71 ± 0.0032 nm. Although there were differences in the roughness, the whole sensor had nanometric roughness. Based on the finite element method simulation performed, it can be assumed that the geometric parameters more suitable for the manufacturing of the electrode are W = 20 µm, L = 1000 µm, G = 50 µm, and N = 40 digits. The electrical characterization performed by impedance spectroscopy showed that we could differentiate between biodiesel and diesel fuels and their pseudo-binary mixtures in the low-frequency region.

Use of Stingless Bee Propolis and Geopropolis against Cancer-A Literature Review of Preclinical Studies.

Cancer is one of the major maladies affecting humankind and remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The investigation of the biological activities of stingless bee products, especially propolis and geopropolis, has revealed promising therapeutic properties, especially in the research on new antineoplastic agents. This literature review of preclinical trials, involving biological assays of antitumor activity and identification of the chemical composition of propolis and geopropolis of stingless bee species, describes the cytotoxicity in tumor lineages (breast, lung, ovarian, liver, mouth, pharynx, larynx, colon, stomach, colorectal, cervix, kidney, prostate, melanoma, human glioblastoma, canine osteosarcoma, erythroleukemia, human chronic myelocytic leukemia, and human promyelocytic leukemia) of propolis and geopropolis of 33 species of stingless bees. The chemical composition of propolis and geopropolis was identified, indicating that these belong to the chemical classes of phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, benzophenones, anthraquinones, alkaloids, terpenes, steroids, saponins, fatty acids, and carbohydrates and are possibly responsible for the cytotoxicity in tumor cells. Apoptosis was one of the main mechanisms of cytotoxicity of extracts and substances isolated from stingless bee products. Although the results found are encouraging, other preclinical studies and clinical trials are essential for the discovery of new anticancer agents.

Arrabidaea chica Verlot fractions reduce MIA-induced osteoarthritis progression in rat knees.

This study aims to investigate the activity of n-hexane, ethyl acetate and butanol fractions obtained from Arrabidaea chica Verlot against MIA-induced osteoarthritis (OA). The antinociceptive potentials of each fraction were evaluated through a cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2 inhibition test and an in vivo OA-model. In addition, toxicity assessments in the liver, spleen and kidney, as well as radiographic and histopathological knee analyses, were performed. The chemical composition of the n-hexane fraction was elucidated, and a molecular docking protocol was carried out to identify which compounds are associated with the detected bioactivity. The n-hexane A. chica fraction preferentially inhibits COX-2, with 90% inhibition observed at 10 µg/mL. The fractions also produced significant improvements in OA incapacity, motor activity and hyperalgesia parameters and in radiological knee conditions. However, concerning the histopathological evaluations, these improvements were only significant in the hexane and ethyl acetate fraction treatments, which resulted in better average scores, suggesting that these fractions slow OA-promoted joint injury progression. Histopathological organ analyses indicate that the fractions are not toxic to animals. Twenty compounds were identified in the n-hexane fraction, comprising fatty acids, terpenes and phytosterols. In silico analyses indicate the presence of favourable interactions between some of the identified compounds and the COX-2 enzyme, mainly concerning alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E), squalene and beta-sitosterol. The findings indicate that A. chica fractions display analgesic, anti-inflammatory properties, are non-toxic and are able to slow OA progression, and may, therefore, be prioritized as natural products in OA human clinical trials.

Leishmania (V.) braziliensis infection promotes macrophage autophagy by a LC3B-dependent and BECLIN1-independent mechanism.

Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis is one of the main etiological agents of tegumentary leishmaniasis in Latin America. The establishment of a successful infection in host cells requires several key events including phagocytosis, phagolysosomal maturation impairment, and parasite replication. Autophagy is accountable for the physiological turnover of cellular organelles, degradation of macromolecular structures, and pathogen elimination. In many cases, autophagy control leads to a successful infection, both impairing pathogen elimination or providing nutrients. Here, we have investigated the relationship between autophagy and L. braziliensis infection. We observed that BECLIN1 expression was upregulated early on infection in both in vitro macrophage cultures and biopsies of cutaneous lesions from L. braziliensis infected patients. On the other hand, LC3B expression was downregulated in cutaneous lesions biopsies. A transient pattern of LC3+ cells was observed along L. braziliensis infection, but the number of LC3 puncta did not vary. Additionally, autophagy induction, with rapamycin treatment or through starvation, reduced infection. As expected, rapamycin increased the percentage of LC3+ cells and the number of puncta, but the presence of parasite restricted this effect, indicating LC3-associated autophagy impairment by L. braziliensis. Finally, silencing LC3B but not BECLIN1 promoted infection, confirming BECLIN1 independent and LC3B-related control by the parasite. Taken together, these data indicate macrophage autophagic machinery manipulation by L. braziliensis, resulting in successful establishment and survival into the host cell.

Heterologous Expression of Lignocellulose-Modifying Enzymes in Microorganisms: Current Status.

Heterologous expression of the carbohydrate-active enzymes in microorganisms is a promising approach to produce bio-based compounds, such as fuels, nutraceuticals and other value-added products from sustainable lignocellulosic sources. Several microorganisms, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Escherichia coli, and the filamentous fungi Aspergillus nidulans, have unique characteristics desirable for a biorefinery production approach like well-known genetic tools, thermotolerance, high fermentative capacity and product tolerance, and high amount of recombinant enzyme secretion. These microbial factories are already stablished in the heterologous production of the carbohydrate-active enzymes to produce, among others, ethanol, xylooligosaccharides and the valuable coniferol. A complete biocatalyst able to heterologous express the CAZymes of glycoside hydrolases, carbohydrate esterases and auxiliary activities families could release these compounds faster, with higher yield and specificity. Recent advances in the synthetic biology tools could expand the number and diversity of enzymes integrated in these microorganisms, and also modify those already integrated. This review outlines the heterologous expression of carbohydrate-active enzymes in microorganisms, as well as recent updates in synthetic biology.