Neonatal treatment with fluoxetine alters locomotor activity and the cortical glial/neuron index in rats with cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is characterized by motor disorders, including deficits in locomotor activity, coordination, and balance. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been shown to play an important role in brain plasticity. This study investigates the effect of neonatal treatment using fluoxetine on locomotor activity and histomorphometric parameters of the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) in rats submitted to an experimental model of CP. CP was found to reduce bodyweight and locomotion parameters and also to increase the glia/neuron index in the S1. Administration of fluoxetine 10 mg/kg reduced bodyweight, impaired locomotor activity parameters, and increased the number of glial cells and the glia/neuron ratio in the S1 in rats with CP. However, treatment with fluoxetine 5 mg/kg was not found to be associated with adverse effects on locomotor activity and seems to improve histomorphometric parameters by way of minor changes in the S1 in animals with CP. These results thus indicate that experimental CP, in combination with the use of a high dose of fluoxetine (10 mg/kg), impairs locomotor and histomorphometric parameters in the S1, while treatment with a low dose of fluoxetine (5 mg/kg) averts the negative outcomes associated with a high dose of fluoxetine in relation to these parameters but produces no protective effect.

The value of sentinel lymph-node biopsy in women with node-positive breast cancer at diagnosis and node-negative tumour after neoadjuvant therapy: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: To conduct a systematic review to analyse the performance of the sentinel lymph-node biopsy (SLNB) in women with node-positive breast cancer at diagnosis and node-negative tumour after neoadjuvant therapy, compared to axillary lymph-node dissection. METHODS: The more relevant databases were searched. Main outcomes were false-negative rate (FNR), sentinel lymph-node identification rate (SLNIR), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy. We conducted meta-analyses when appropriate. RESULTS: Twenty studies were included. The pooled FNR was 0.14 (95% CI 0.11-0.17), the pooled SLNIR was 0.89 (95% CI 0.86-0.92), NPV was 0.83 (95% CI 0.79-0.87), and summary accuracy was 0.92 (95% CI 0.90-0.94). SLNB performed better when more than one node was removed and double mapping was used. CONCLUSIONS: SLNB can be performed in women with a node-negative tumour after neoadjuvant therapy. It has a better performance when used with previous marking of the affected node and with double tracer.

The value of sentinel lymph-node biopsy after neoadjuvant therapy: an overview.

PURPOSE: We conducted a systematic review to analyse the performance of the sentinel lymph-node biopsy (SLNB) after the neoadjuvant chemotherapy, compared to axillary lymph-node dissection, in terms of false-negative rate (FNR) and sentinel lymph-node identification rate (SLNIR), sensitivity, negative predictive value (NPV), need for axillary lymph-node dissection (ALND), morbidity, preferences, and costs. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and The Cochrane Library were searched. We assessed the quality of the included systematic reviews using AMSTAR2 tool, and estimated the degree of overlapping of the individual studies on the included reviews. RESULTS: Six systematic reviews with variable quality were selected. We observed a very high overlapping degree across the included reviews. The FNR and the SLNIR were quite consistent (FNR 13-14%; SLNIR ~ 90% or higher). In women with initially clinically node-negative breast cancer, the FNR was better (6%), with similar SLNIR (96%). The included reviews did not consider the other prespecified outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: It would be reasonable to suggest performing an SLNB in patients treated with NACT, adjusting the procedure to the previous marking of the affected lymph node, using double tracer, and biopsy of at least three sentinel lymph nodes. More well-designed research is needed. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020114403.

Pancreatitis aguda en carcinoma de célula pequeña de pulmón (CPCP) resuelta con quimioterapia / Acute pancreatitis in small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) resolved with chemotherapy

Resumen El carcinoma de célula pequeña (CPCP) o microcítico de pulmón es un subtipo de cáncer de pulmón que típicamente se ha asociado al tabaquismo y que se caracteriza por su agresividad y mal pronóstico a corto plazo. Como entidad, puede metastatizar en cualquier órgano, siendo las metástasis pancreáticas raras y la mayoría de las veces asintomáticas. Por ello, la presencia de una pancreatitis neoplásica, como en el caso presentado, es excepcional, y aún más cuando presenta refractariedad al tratamiento médico convencional y responde al tratamiento citotóxico sistémico. Por todo ello, se expone esta experiencia clínica y se debate la presencia de esta rara entidad y su manejo.

Abstract Small-cell lung carcinoma is a subtype of neoplasm that has been typically associated with smoking; it is characterized by its aggressiveness and poor prognosis in the short term. As an entity, it can metastasize in any organ, but pancreatic metastases are rare and most of the time asymptomatic. Therefore, the presence of neoplastic pancreatitis as in our case is exceptional; even more when it presents refractoriness to conventional medical treatment, responding instead to systemic cytotoxic treatment. Therefore, we expose our clinical experience and discuss the presence of this rare entity and its management.

Genotype and phenotype landscape of MEN2 in 554 medullary thyroid cancer patients: the BrasMEN study.

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease caused by RET gene germline mutations that is characterized by medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) associated with other endocrine tumors. Several reports have demonstrated that the RET mutation profile may vary according to the geographical area. In this study, we collected clinical and molecular data from 554 patients with surgically confirmed MTC from 176 families with MEN2 in 18 different Brazilian centers to compare the type and prevalence of RET mutations with those from other countries. The most frequent mutations, classified by the number of families affected, occur in codon 634, exon 11 (76 families), followed by codon 918, exon 16 (34 families: 26 with M918T and 8 with M918V) and codon 804, exon 14 (22 families: 15 with V804M and 7 with V804L). When compared with other major published series from Europe, there are several similarities and some differences. While the mutations in codons C618, C620, C630, E768 and S891 present a similar prevalence, some mutations have a lower prevalence in Brazil, and others are found mainly in Brazil (G533C and M918V). These results reflect the singular proportion of European, Amerindian and African ancestries in the Brazilian mosaic genome.

Intestinal perforation by an ingested foreign body.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the computed tomography findings suggestive of intestinal perforation by an ingested foreign body. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective study of four cases of surgically proven intestinal perforation by a foreign body, comparing the computed tomography findings with those described in the literature. RESULTS: None of the patients reported having ingested a foreign body, all were over 60 years of age, three of the four patients used a dental prosthesis, and all of the foreign bodies were elongated and sharp. In all four patients, there were findings indicative of acute abdomen. None of the foreign bodies were identified on conventional X-rays. The computed tomography findings suggestive of perforation were thickening of the intestinal walls (in all four cases), increased density of mesenteric fat (in all four cases), identification of the foreign body passing through the intestinal wall (in three cases), and gas in the peritoneal cavity (in one case). CONCLUSION: In cases of foreign body ingestion, intestinal perforation is more common when the foreign body is elongated and sharp. Although patients typically do not report having ingested such foreign bodies, the scenario should be suspected in elderly individuals who use dental prostheses. A computed tomography scan can detect foreign bodies, locate perforations, and guide treatment. The findings that suggest perforation are thickening of the intestinal walls, increased mesenteric fat density, and, less frequently, gas in the peritoneal cavity, often restricted to the point of perforation.

OBJETIVO: Identificar os achados tomográficos sugestivos de perfuração intestinal por corpo estranho alimentar. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados, retrospectivamente, quatro casos de perfuração intestinal por corpo estranho comprovados cirurgicamente, e comparados os achados tomográficos com os descritos na literatura. RESULTADOS: Nenhum dos pacientes referiu a ingestão do corpo estranho, todos tinham mais de 60 anos, três usavam prótese dentária e todos os objetos eram alongados e pontiagudos. Os quatro apresentaram abdome agudo, o corpo estranho não foi identificado pela radiografia simples em nenhum deles, e os achados tomográficos sugestivos de perfuração foram espessamento das paredes da alça intestinal (nos quatro casos), densificação da gordura mesentérica (nos quatro casos), identificação do corpo estranho transfixando a parede intestinal (em três casos) e gás na cavidade peritoneal (em um caso). CONCLUSÃO: Perfuração intestinal é mais comum em casos de objetos pontiagudos e alongados, em que os pacientes, geralmente, não referem a ingestão, mas deve-se suspeitar em idosos que usam próteses dentárias. A tomografia permite detectar corpos estranhos, localizar a perfuração e orientar o tratamento. Os achados que sugerem perfuração são espessamento das paredes de um segmento intestinal, edema da gordura mesentérica e, menos frequentemente, gás na cavidade peritoneal, muitas vezes limitado ao ponto da perfuração.

A preliminary characterization of the mutagenicity of atmospheric particulate matter collected during sugar cane harvesting using the Salmonella/microsome microsuspension assay.

During sugar cane harvesting season, which occurs from May to November of each year, the crops are burnt, cut, and transported to the mills. There are reports showing that mutagenic activity and PAH content increase during harvesting season in some areas of São Paulo State in comparison with nonharvesting periods. The objective of this work was to preliminarily characterize the mutagenic activity of the total organic extracts as well as corresponding organic fractions of airborne particulate matter (PM) collected twice from two cities, Araraquara (ARQ) and Piracicaba (PRB), during sugar cane harvesting season using the Salmonella/microsome microssuspension assay. One sample collected in São Paulo metropolitan area was also included. The mutagenicity of the total extracts ranged from 55 to 320 revertants per cubic meter without the addition of S9 and from not detected to 57 revertants per cubic meter in the presence of S9 in areas with sugar cane plantations. Of the three fractions analyzed, the most polar ones (nitro and oxy) were the most potent. A comparison of the response of TA98 with YG1041 and the increased potencies without S9 indicated that nitro compounds are causing the observed effect. More studies are necessary to verify the sources of the mutagenic activity such as burning of vegetal biomass and combustion of heavy duty vehicles used to transport the sugar cane to the mills. The Salmonella/microsome assay can be an important tool to monitor the atmosphere for mutagenicity during sugar cane harvesting season.

[Resistance of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) populations to organophosphates temephos in the Paraíba State, Brazil]. / Resistência de populações de Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) ao organofosforado temefós na Paraíba.

Rumors of Aedes aegypti (L.) resistance to temephos in diferent Brazilian states justified this research, whose objective was to verify and characterize the resistance to temephos in A. aegypti populations from Paraíba State. The temephos resistance was evaluated and characterized through a diagnostic dose of 0.012 mg/l and concentration-mortality curves. The mortality data of multiple concentrations were submitted to Probit analysis, and the resistance ratios (RR) were figured out from the CL50s of the survived population and CL50 a laboratory susceptible population. All the A. aegypti populations showed resistance to temephos. The Sítio Piabas population with RR = 4.0, showed lower resistance, the Campina Grande with RR = 6.0, Lagoa do Mato with RR = 9.3 and Capim de Cheiro with RR = 9.0, showed a moderate resistance, and Boqueirão with RR = 11.0, Brejo dos Santos with RR = 16.6 and Itaporanga with RR= 15.6, showed intermediate levels of resistance to temephos. These results confirm the need of a continuous monitoring and managing program of A. aegypti resistance in Paraíba State.

Níveis de superóxido dismutase produzidos por monócitos em portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica submetidos a esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior / Superoxide dismutase monocyte production levels in patients with hepatosplenic form of schistosoma mansoni infection, who underwent splenectomy, left gastric vein ligature and spleen tissue autoimplantation on the greater omentum

OBJETIVO: Investigar os níveis de produção de SOD por monócitos periféricos em pacientes jovens portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica submetidos à esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico. MÉTODO: Quatro grupos foram envolvidos na investigação: G1 - 12 portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica (EHE) sem tratamento; G2 - 13 portadores de EHE que receberam tratamento clínico e se submeteram à operação para descompressão do sistema porta: esplenectomia e ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda (EHE/ELGE); G3 - 19 pacientes jovens similares a G2, mas que receberam também auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior (EHE/ELGE/AI); e G4 - 15 indivíduos sem infecção pelo S. mansoni advindos da mesma área geográfica, apresentando as mesmas condições sócio-econômicas (GC). RESULTADOS: Os indivíduos normais (GC - sem esquistossomose) apresentam níveis de SOD significantemente menores que os portadores de EHE sem tratamento (p<0,01); e aqueles do grupo EHE/ELGE (p<0,05). Os níveis de SOD do grupo EHE/ELGE/AI são estatisticamente similares ao grupo GC (p>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados corroboram a hipótese de que o tratamento clínico associado à esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico, em portadores jovens de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica, tendem a manter a resposta imune desses indivíduos.

BACKGROUND: Super oxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that catalyzes the dismutation of super oxide radicals. It is important not only for protecting the human immune system against S. mansoni, as well as for producing competent response from the host against this parasite or other infectious agents. So, it has been investigated the production levels of SOD by peripheral monocytes from young carriers with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy, left gastric vein ligature and spleen tissue autoimplantation. METHODS: Four groups were enrolled in the investigation: G1 - 12 carriers with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni without treatment (HSM); G2 - 13 HSM patients who received medical treatment and underwent surgery for relief of portal hypertension - splenectomy and left gastric vein ligature (HSM/SLGV); G3 - 19 young patients, similar to those of G3 who in addition received spleen morsels autoimplantation on the greater omentum (HSM/SLGV/AI); and G4 - 15 subjects from the same area with the same economical status without S. mansoni infection (Control group CG). RESULTS: The CG presented significantly lower levels of SOD as compared with the HSM patients (p<0.01) and those of G2 (HSM/SLGV) - (p<0.05). Levels of SOD from patients of group G3 (HSM/SLGV/AI) were similar to those of the control group (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The results lend further support to the hypothesis that clinical treatment followed by splenectomy, left gastric vein ligature and spleen morsels autoimplantation in young patients, who were schistosomiasis mansoni carriers with hepatosplenic form, helps to maintain the immune response of these patients.

[Phagocytes rate and cellular viability of the monocytes in patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy and auto-implantation of spleen tissue]. / Fagocitose e viabilidade monocitária de pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica na forma hepatoesplênica submetidos à esplenectomia e ao auto-implante esplênico.

Mansonic schistosomiasis remains a medical-social issue in Northeastern Brazil. In children, surgical treatment includes splenectomy and spleen autoimplantation. This procedure reduces post-splenectomy sepsis. The aim of this study was to analyze the phagocyte rate and the cellular viability of monocytes in patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, who underwent splenectomy and spleen autoimplantation from 1991 to 2001. Of the 22 individuals analyzed, 11 were patients who underwent splenectomy and spleen autoimplantation (Study group) and 11 were healthy individuals from the same region (Control group). Both groups presented similar mean age. No difference was found in the phagocyte rate between the control group (36.1%+/-4.9%) and study group (33.5%+/-5.7%). However, phagocyte viability after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide was higher (94%) in control group, when compared to the study group (65%), p<0.001. It is possible to hypothesize that monocytes from the study group patients presented a reduced response to the microorganism challenge, in the face of a harmful and long-lasting stimulus.

Nitric oxide monocyte production levels in patients with the hepatosplenic form of Scistosoma mansoni infection who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum / Níveis de óxido nítrico produzidos por monócitos em portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica que se submeteram a esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior

PURPOSE: To measure the levels of NO production by monocytes in patients with the hepatosplenic form of schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum. METHODS: Four groups of volunteers were enrolled in the investigation: G1 - 12 patients with S. mansoni infection in its hepatosplenic form without any kind of treatment (SMH); G2 - 13 SMH patients who underwent medical treatment and portal hypertension decompression splenectomy and ligature of the left gastric vein (SMH/SLGV); G3 - 19 patients similar to the later group, but additionally received auto implantation of spleen morsels in the major omentum (SMH/SLGV/AI); and G4 - 15 individuals with no S. mansoni infection coming from the same geographical area and presenting similar socio economical status (CG). Nitrite production by monocytes was determined by a standard Griess reaction adapted to microplates. The results were presented by mean ± SD for each group. Significant differences in NO production by monocytes were determined by Tukey-Kramer multicomparisons test. Probability values of 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: Patients from G1 (SMH) showed lower level of NO production by monocytes (5.28 ± 1.28µmol/ml). Patients from G2 (SMH/SLGV) showed similar results (6.67 ± 0.44µmol/ml - q = 2.681 p > 0.05). Individuals of G4 (CG) showed higher level of NO production by monocytes (8.19 ± 2.74µmol/ml). Patients from G3 (SMH/SGLV/AI) showed similar NO production by PBMC as compared to individuals of G4 (CG) - (7.41 ± 1.65µmol/ml - q = 1.615 p > 0.05). The volunteers from G4 (CG) and G3 (SMH/SLGV/AI) showed significantly greater levels of NO production by monocytes as compared to those from G1 (SMH) - (q = 5.837 p < 0.01, and q = 4.285 p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Collectively, the results point to a restoration of NO normal production by monocytes in SH...(AU)

OBJETIVO: Mensurar os níveis de produção de ON por monócitos do sangue periférico (MSP) em portadores de esquistossomose na forma hepatoesplênica que tinham se submetido a esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior. MÉTODOS: Quatro grupos de voluntários foram envolvidos na investigação: G1 - 12 portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica sem nenhuma forma de tratamento (EHE); G2 - 13 portadores de EHE que receberam tratamento clínico e se submeteram cirurgia para descompressão do sistema porta esplenectomia e ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda (EHE/ELGE); G3 - 19 pacientes similares ao do último grupo, mas que receberam também auto-implante de fragmentos de tecido esplênico no omento maior (EHE/ELGE/AI); e G4 - 15 indivíduos sem infecção pelo S. mansoni advindos da mesma área geográfica e apresentando as mesmas condições sócio-econômicas (GC). A produção de ON pelos MSP foi determinada pela reação padrão de Griess, adaptada para poços em microplaca. Os resultados foram expressos por suas médias ± DP para cada grupo. Diferenças significantes nas medias de produção de ON pelos MSP foram determinadas pelo teste de comparações múltiplas de Tukey-Kramer. Foram aceito os limites de significância de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes portadores de EHE não tratados (G1) evidenciaram os níveis mais baixos de produção de ON pelos MSP (5,28 ± 1,28µmol/ml). Os pacientes do G2 (EHE/ELGE) evidenciaram resultados similares (6,67 ± 0,44µmol/ml - q = 2,681 p > 0.05). Os indivíduos do G4 (GC) evidenciaram os mais altos níveis de produção de ON pelos MSP (8,19 ± 2,74µmol/ml). Os pacientes do G3 (EHE/ELGE/AI) evidenciaram produção de ON produzido pelos MSP similares aos indivíduos do - G4 (GC) (7.41 ± 1.65µmol/ml - q = 1.615 p > 0.05). Os voluntários do G4 (GC) e os do G3 (EHE/ELGE/AI) evidenciaram de forma significante maiores níveis de produção de ON pelos MS...(AU)

Nitric oxide monocyte production levels in patients with the hepatosplenic form of Scistosoma mansoni infection who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum / Níveis de óxido nítrico produzidos por monócitos em portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica que se submeteram a esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior

PURPOSE: To measure the levels of NO production by monocytes in patients with the hepatosplenic form of schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum. METHODS: Four groups of volunteers were enrolled in the investigation: G1 - 12 patients with S. mansoni infection in its hepatosplenic form without any kind of treatment (SMH); G2 - 13 SMH patients who underwent medical treatment and portal hypertension decompression splenectomy and ligature of the left gastric vein (SMH/SLGV); G3 - 19 patients similar to the later group, but additionally received auto implantation of spleen morsels in the major omentum (SMH/SLGV/AI); and G4 - 15 individuals with no S. mansoni infection coming from the same geographical area and presenting similar socio economical status (CG). Nitrite production by monocytes was determined by a standard Griess reaction adapted to microplates. The results were presented by mean ± SD for each group. Significant differences in NO production by monocytes were determined by Tukey-Kramer multicomparisons test. Probability values of 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: Patients from G1 (SMH) showed lower level of NO production by monocytes (5.28 ± 1.28µmol/ml). Patients from G2 (SMH/SLGV) showed similar results (6.67 ± 0.44µmol/ml - q = 2.681 p > 0.05). Individuals of G4 (CG) showed higher level of NO production by monocytes (8.19 ± 2.74µmol/ml). Patients from G3 (SMH/SGLV/AI) showed similar NO production by PBMC as compared to individuals of G4 (CG) - (7.41 ± 1.65µmol/ml - q = 1.615 p > 0.05). The volunteers from G4 (CG) and G3 (SMH/SLGV/AI) showed significantly greater levels of NO production by monocytes as compared to those from G1 (SMH) - (q = 5.837 p < 0.01, and q = 4.285 p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Collectively, the results point to a restoration of NO normal production by monocytes in SH...

OBJETIVO: Mensurar os níveis de produção de ON por monócitos do sangue periférico (MSP) em portadores de esquistossomose na forma hepatoesplênica que tinham se submetido a esplenectomia, ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda e auto-implante de tecido esplênico no omento maior. MÉTODOS: Quatro grupos de voluntários foram envolvidos na investigação: G1 - 12 portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica sem nenhuma forma de tratamento (EHE); G2 - 13 portadores de EHE que receberam tratamento clínico e se submeteram cirurgia para descompressão do sistema porta esplenectomia e ligadura da veia gástrica esquerda (EHE/ELGE); G3 - 19 pacientes similares ao do último grupo, mas que receberam também auto-implante de fragmentos de tecido esplênico no omento maior (EHE/ELGE/AI); e G4 - 15 indivíduos sem infecção pelo S. mansoni advindos da mesma área geográfica e apresentando as mesmas condições sócio-econômicas (GC). A produção de ON pelos MSP foi determinada pela reação padrão de Griess, adaptada para poços em microplaca. Os resultados foram expressos por suas médias ± DP para cada grupo. Diferenças significantes nas medias de produção de ON pelos MSP foram determinadas pelo teste de comparações múltiplas de Tukey-Kramer. Foram aceito os limites de significância de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes portadores de EHE não tratados (G1) evidenciaram os níveis mais baixos de produção de ON pelos MSP (5,28 ± 1,28µmol/ml). Os pacientes do G2 (EHE/ELGE) evidenciaram resultados similares (6,67 ± 0,44µmol/ml - q = 2,681 p > 0.05). Os indivíduos do G4 (GC) evidenciaram os mais altos níveis de produção de ON pelos MSP (8,19 ± 2,74µmol/ml). Os pacientes do G3 (EHE/ELGE/AI) evidenciaram produção de ON produzido pelos MSP similares aos indivíduos do - G4 (GC) (7.41 ± 1.65µmol/ml - q = 1.615 p > 0.05). Os voluntários do G4 (GC) e os do G3 (EHE/ELGE/AI) evidenciaram de forma significante maiores níveis de produção de ON pelos MS...

Nitric oxide monocyte production levels in patients with the hepatosplenic form of schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum.

PURPOSE: To measure the levels of NO production by monocytes in patients with the hepatosplenic form of Schistosomiasis mansoni who underwent splenectomy, ligature of the left gastric vein and auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum. METHODS: Four groups of volunteers were enrolled in the investigation: G1 - 12 patients with S. mansoni infection in its hepatosplenic form without any kind of treatment (SMH); G2 - 13 SMH patients who underwent medical treatment and portal hypertension decompression splenectomy and ligature of the left gastric vein (SMH/SLGV); G3 - 19 patients similar to the later group, but additionally received auto implantation of spleen morsels in the major omentum (SMH/SLGV/AI); and G4 - 15 individuals with no S. mansoni infection coming from the same geographical area and presenting similar socio-economical status (CG). Nitrite production by monocytes was determined by a standard Griess reaction adapted to microplates. The results were presented by mean +/- SD for each group. Significant differences in NO production by monocytes were determined by Tukey-Kramer multicomparisons test. Probability values of 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: Patients from G1 (SMH) showed lower level of NO production by monocytes (5.28 +/- 1.28 micromol/ml). Patients from G2 (SMH/SLGV) showed similar results (6.67 +/- 0.44 micromol/ml-q = 2.681 p > 0.05). Individuals of G4 (CG) showed higher level of NO production by monocytes (8.19 +/- 2.74 micromol/ml). Patients from G3 (SMH/SGLV/AI) showed similar NO production by PBMC as compared to individuals of G4 (CG) - (7.41 +/- 1.65 micromol/ml- q = 1.615 p > 0.05). The volunteers from G4 (CG) and G3 (SMH/SLGV/AI) showed significantly greater levels of NO production by monocytes as compared to those from G1 (SMH) - (q = 5.837 p < 0.01, and q = 4.285 p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Collectively, the results point to a restoration of NO normal production by monocytes in SHM patients who underwent medical and surgical treatments, especially in those who had received auto implantation of spleen tissue in the major omentum after splenectomy and ligature of the left gastric vein. The data gives further support to the hypothesis that this additional procedure is important in the restoration of the immune response of these patients, since NO synthesis by the monocytes correlates with protective immunity against infection; thus, protecting them against overwhelming post splenectomy infection.

Photoelectrocatalytic oxidation of remazol turquoise blue and toxicological assessment of its oxidation products.

The ability of photoelectrocatalytic oxidation to degrade the commercially important copper-phtalocyanine dye, remazol turquoise blue 15 (RTB) was investigated. The best experimental condition was optimized, evaluating the performance of Ti/TiO2 thin-film electrodes prepared by sol-gel method in the decolourization of 32 mg L(-1) RTB dye in 0.5 mol L(-1) Na2SO4 pH 8 and applied potential of +1.5 V versus SCE under UV irradiation. Spectrophotometric measurements, high performance liquid chromatography, dissolved organic carbon (TOC) evaluation and stripping analysis of yielding solution obtained after 3 h of photoelectrolysis leads to 100% of absorbance removal from wavelength of 250-800 nm, 79.6% of TOC reduction and the releasing of up to 54.6% dye-bound copper (0.85 mg L(-1)) into the solution. Both, original and oxidized dye solution did not presented mutagenic activity with the strains TA98 and TA100 of Salmonella in the presence and absence of S9 mix at the tested doses. Nevertheless, the yielding photoelectrocatalytic oxidized solution showed an increase in the acute toxicity for Vibrio fischeri bacteria, explained by copper liberation during treatment.

[Biology and thermal exigency of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) from four bioclimatic localities of Paraíba]. / Biologia e exigências térmicas de Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) provenientes de quatro regiões bioclimáticas da Paraíba.

The present work aimed at estimating the thermal requirements for the development and the number of generations per year of Aedes aegypti (L.) under natural conditions. The life cycle of A. aegypti populations was studied at constant temperatures of 18, 22, 26, 30 and 34 degrees C, and 12 h photophase. The development period, egg viability and larval and pupal survival were evaluated daily as well as adult longevity and fecundity. The low threshold temperature of development (Tb) and the thermal constant (K) were determined. The number of generations per year in laboratory and field were also estimated. The favorable temperature to A. aegypti development is between 21 degrees C and 29 degrees C, and to longevity and fecundity is between 22 degrees C and 30 degrees C. The egg to adult basal temperature, thermal constant and the number of generations in field were, in order, 9.5, 8.5, 3.4, 7.1, 13.5 degrees C; 244.5, 273.9, 298.5, 280.9 and 161.8 degree-days; and 21.9, 23.8, 24.2, 21.1 and 22.1 generations in populations from Boqueirão, Brejo dos Santos, Campina Grande, Itaporanga and Remígio.

[Evaluation of the effect of splenectomy with autologous spleen tissue implantation in some monocyte functions in children with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni]. / Avaliação do efeito da esplenectomia e auto-implante esplênico sobre algumas funções de monócitos em crianças com esquistossomose mansônica.

Adherence index, superoxide and TNF-alpha production in monocytes, with or without tuftsin treatment, were investigated in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni bearers with splenectomy with or without autologous implantation of spleen tissue. Three groups were evaluated: Healthy volunteers control group (CG) (n=12); Splenectomy with seft auto-transplant AG (n=18) and Splenectomy without auto-transplant WAG (n=9). Adherence index and TNF-alpha did not differ among the groups. Superoxide production was similar in CG and AG, in the 1st hour after cell stimulation. SP was larger in each hour time in CG and AG groups as compared WAS group. TT recovered normal pattern of SP in AG comparable with levels found in CG, with increase from the 1st to 2nd hour. However, TT did not alter SP in WAG, which remained reduced in all time points. Autologous implantation of spleen tissue seems to contribute for recovery and maintenance of the evaluated immunological reactions, which might be important in response to infections.

Avaliação do efeito da esplenectomia e auto-implante esplênico sobre algumas funções de monócitos em crianças com esquistossomose mansônica / Evaluation of the effect of splenectomy with autologous spleen tissue implantation in some monocyte functions in children with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni

Investigamos em portadores de esquistossomose hepatoesplênica após esplenectomia com ou sem auto-implante esplênico: índice de aderência, produção de superóxido (SP) e de TNF-alfa em monócitos, tratados ou não com tuftsina. Avaliamos três grupos: voluntários sadios CG (grupo controle) (n=12); esplenectomizados com auto-implante AG (n=18) e esplenectomizados sem auto-implante WAG (n=9). índice de aderência e TNF-alfa não diferiram entre os grupos. SP foi semelhante em CG e AG na 1ª hora após estimulação celular. SP foi maior em todos intervalos de tempo nos grupos CG e AG, comparados ao WAG. O tratamento com tuftsina recuperou o padrão de normalidade de SP em AG, com aumento da 1ª para a 2ª hora nos níveis do CG. O tratamento com tuftsina não alterou SP em WAG, permanecendo reduzida em todos intervalos. O auto-implante esplênico parece recuperar e manter os parâmetros imunológicos avaliados, que têm participação importante na resposta do hospedeiro às infecções.

Differential effects on somatic and reflex development by chronic clomipramine treatment.

The developmental effect of altered 5-HT and NE levels is a subject that requires more attention, especially when considering the increased demand for antidepressive dual reuptake inhibitors. Serotonin and norepinephrine are bioamines that differentially influence the nervous tissue growth. This study investigated the somatic maturation and the ontogeny of reflexes in neonate rats treated from the 1st to the 21st postnatal day (PND) with clomipramine (20 mg/kg sc, daily), a potent monoamine reuptake inhibitor. Indicators of both general body growth (body weight, axis of the head and body lengths) and physical maturation (ear unfolding, auditory conduit opening, eruption of the lower incisors and eye opening) were appraised. Ontogeny of motor and sensory reflexes (righting, free-fall righting--acceleration, negative geotaxis, cliff avoidance, auditory startle response and vibrissa placing) was also observed. The results demonstrated that chronic neonatal treatment with clomipramine alters the somatic growth. However, it did not interfere with the onset time of many physical features and reflexes. These results provide insights into the consequences of dual transmitter during early development.

Manejo quirúrgico de los nódulos de la glándula tiroides / Surgical management of thyroid nodules

El nódulo tiroideo se define clínicamente como una neoformación macroscópica bien delimitada, localizada en la glándula tiroides que debe estudiarse mediante un protocolo en el que intervienen endocrinólogos, radiólogos, patólogos y cirujanos. Se presentan los resultados de un estudio retrospectivo, realizado en el Hospital General Dr. Gonzalo Castañeda, en el que se revisó la incidencia, métodos diagnósticos, tratamiento quirúrgico empleado y la correlación entre diagnóstico histopatológico de la biopsia por aspiración y el examen de la pieza. De julio de 1994 a diciembre de 1999 se operaron 30 pacientes con diagnóstico de nódulo tiroideo. El rango de edad fue de 20 a 71 años, 28 mujeres y dos hombres. Los síntomas principales fueron: aumento de volumen en cuello, hipertiroidismo, disfagia e hipotiroidismo. Los exámenes de laboratorio y gabinete realizados incluyeron: pruebas de función tiroidea (PFT), gammagrama tiroideo, ultrasonido (USG), serie esofagogastroduodenal (SEGD) y biopsia por aspiración con aguja fina (BAAF), con resultados de adenoma folicular en 30 por ciento, bocio multinodular 10 por ciento, negativo a malignidad 10 por ciento, quiste tiroideo 6.6 por ciento, células epiteliales y PMN en 6.6 por ciento, bocio hiperplásico difuso en 3.3 por ciento y muestra inadecuada 33.3 por ciento se realizó hemitiroidectomía en 66.6 por ciento y total en el 33 por ciento. Las complicaciones inmediatas fueron: hipocalcemia transitoria (10 por ciento), y tardías hipoparatiroidismo (26.6 por ciento) y disfonía (6.6 por ciento). El resultado definitivo fue: adenoma folicular 43.3 por ciento, bocio multinodular 23.3 por ciento, bocio difuso 13.3 por ciento, adenoma fetal 6.6 por ciento, tiroiditis crónica 6.6 por ciento. En 6.6 por ciento se reportó malignidad, con un caso de carcinoma folicular y uno de carcinoma papilar. La correlación de biopsia por aspiración y resultado definitivo fue de 53.3 por ciento.

Cirugía antirreflujo / Antiesopahgeal reflux surgery

Se realiza un estudio clínico, longitudinal, retrospectivo y abierto, para determinar la eficacia de la funduplicatura tipo Nissen en pacientes con hernia hiatal y reflujo gastroesofágico.Se intervinieron 88 pacientes por hernia hiatal, realizándose funduplicatura tipo Nissen, en el periodo comprendido del 1 de enero de 1994 al 30 de junio de 1996, de los cuales se excluyen 26 pacientes: 12 por no aceptar el protocolo, 11 por seguimiento incompleto y tres por fallecer debido a causas ajenas a la cirugía.Se les realizó en el posoperatorio: valoración clínica de Visick (del 1 al 4), endoscopia estandarizada por la clasificación de Savary-Miller (Grados I al IV), evaluando estenosis (I al III), competencia de la funduplicatura y reflujo gastroesofágico mediante rayos X y gammagrafía. De 62 pacientes 52 (83.87 por ciento) presentan funduplicatura competente por endoscopia radiografía y gammagrafía con Visick I. Diez pacientes (16.13 por ciento) presentan alteraciones que se resumen en los siguientes datos: Grupo 1: Esofagitis grado IV, infección por Helicobacter pylori, gastritis antral y reflujo. Grupo 2: Esofagitis grado III, esófago de Barret, pangastritis crónica, gastritis antral e infección por Helicobacter pylori y reflujo. Grupo 3: Estenosis grado II, pangastritis crónica, gastritis antral e infección por Helicobacter pylori.Se obtuvo una significancia estadística de p: 0.014, entre la valoración clínica de Visick y los resultados de gabinete.