Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma: A Series of 96 Surgical Cases.

Introduction Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a benign vascularized tumor that affects almost exclusively male adolescents. Surgery is the treatment of choice for JNA. Objectives The present study is a 42-year retrospective review of a series of JNA cases treated surgically without previous embolization. Methods The present is a retrospective, descriptive study based on medical records of 96 patients with JNA who underwent microscopic or endoscopic excision without previous embolization from 1978 to 2020 in a single institution. The patients were categorized according to the Andrews et al. stage, and data were collected on age, gender, tumor staging, surgical approach, affected side, and outcome. Results All patients were male, with an average age of 17 years. The predominant tumor stage consisted of type II, with 52.1%. A total of 33.3% of the patients were submitted to the microscopic technique and 66.7%, to the endonasal technique. The rate of intraoperative blood transfusion was of 17.7%. Conclusion The present study reinforces that resection of JNA in various stages is viable without previous artery embolization.

Lymph node tuberculosis-associated paradoxical immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a non-HIV patient: Case report and review of literature.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health threat, especially in HIV patients who may experience immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) upon Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Diagnosing and defining IRIS in non-HIV patients remains challenging. A 63-year-old male with acute leukaemia underwent induction therapy with a regimen containing fludarabine. Febrile neutropenia led to further investigations, revealing non-cavitary pulmonary TB, prompting anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT) alongside resumed leukaemia treatment with sorafenib. Persistent extra-pulmonary TB, specifically lymph node involvement, were observed and IRIS was suspected, evidenced by enlarged lymphadenopathies, scrofula, and skin lesions that developed during the 13-month course of ATT, with no recurrence after its cessation. This article explores a case of lymph node TB-associated paradoxical IRIS in a non-HIV leukaemia patient, revealing the intricate interplay between tuberculosis and haematological malignancies and emphasizing the lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment consensus. Challenges in lymph node TB diagnosis and management highlight the need for tailored therapeutic approaches. The report explores the potential immunomodulatory effects of fludarabine and sorafenib, questioning their roles in TB-IRIS. This case illuminates TB-IRIS dynamics in non-HIV patients, urging further research and collaborative efforts to enhance understanding and outcomes. As medical complexities persist, personalized therapeutic approaches and advancements in TB-IRIS research are crucial.

Dietary supplementation with black cricket (Gryllus assimilis) reverses protein-energy malnutrition and modulates renin-angiotensin system expression in adipose tissue.

Edible insects are recognized as promising food sources due to their nutritional composition. Some species, such as Gryllus assimilis, contain proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates of high biological value, which regulate several metabolic functions, including the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS). In this context, the present study aimed to assess the effects of dietary supplementation with whole Gryllus assimilis powder on the metabolism of malnourished mice. Thirty-two male Swiss mice were used and divided into four treatment groups. The groups were identified as (AIN93-M); AIN93-M + Gryllus assimilis diet (AIN93-M + GA); AIN93-M + Renutrition diet (AIN93-M + REN) and AIN93-M + Renutrition diet + Gryllus assimilis (AIN93-M + REN + GA). The results showed that whole Gryllus assimilis powder inclusion promotes recovery from protein-energy malnutrition, reduces adiposity, and improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. It also reduces total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, and adipocyte area. We also observed a significant increase in the expression of RAS-related genes, such as ACE2 and MasR, followed by a reduction in Angiotensinogen and ACE. The main findings of the present study suggest the use of black cricket as a viable strategy for the prevention and treatment of protein-energy malnutrition, as well as the reduction of adiposity, and improvement of lipid and glycemic parameters, with antihypertensive potential.

Effects of gallic acid and physical training on liver damage, force, and anxiety in obese mice: Hepatic modulation of Sestrin 2 (SESN2) and PGC-α expression.

Obesity and overweight are multifactorial diseases affecting more than one-third of the world's population. Physical inactivity contributes to a positive energy balance and the onset of obesity. Exercise combined with a balanced diet is an effective non-pharmacological strategy to improve obesity-related disorders. Gallic acid (GA), is a natural endogenous polyphenol found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and wines, with beneficial effects on energetic homeostasis. The present study aims to investigate the effects of exercise training on obese mice supplemented with GA. Animal experimentation was performed with male Swiss mice divided into five groups: ST (standard control), HFD (obese control), HFD + GA (GA supplement), HFD + Trained (training), and HFD + GA + Trained (GA and training). The groups are treated for eight weeks with 200 mg/kg/body weight of the feed compound and, if applicable, physical training. The main findings of the present study show that GA supplementation improves liver fat, body weight, adiposity, and plasma insulin levels. In addition, animals treated with the GA and a physical training program demonstrate reduced levels of anxiety. Gene expression analyses show that Sesn2 is activated via PGC-1α independent of the GATOR2 protein, which is activated by GA in the context of physical activity. These data are corroborated by molecular docking analysis, demonstrating the interaction of GA with GATOR2. The present study contributes to understanding the metabolic effects of GA and physical training and demonstrates a new hepatic mechanism of action via Sestrin 2 and PGC-1α.

Safety and feasibility of early mobilization in patients submitted to cardiac surgery using subxiphoid drain.

INTRODUCTION: Patients submitted to heart surgery are restricted to the bed of the Intensive Care Units (ICUs), due to this period of immobility the individual is likely to present clinical and functional alterations. These complications can be avoided by early mobilization; however, in some hospitals, this is not feasible due to the use of subxiphoid drain in the immediate postoperative period. OBJECTIVE: To verify the safety and feasibility of mobilizing patients after cardiac surgery using subxiphoid drain. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study. On the first day the patient was positioned in sedestration in bed, then transferred from sitting to orthostasis, gait training and sedestration in an armchair. On the second postoperative day the same activities were performed, but with walking through the ICU with a progressive increase in distance. At all these moments, the patient was using the subxiphoid and intercostal drain. The patients were seen three times a day, but physical rehabilitation was performed twice. The adverse events considered were drain obstruction, accidental removal or displacement, total atrioventricular block, postoperative low output syndrome, cardiorespiratory arrest, pneumomediastinum, infection, and pericardial or myocardial damage. RESULTS: 176 patients were evaluated. Only 2 (0.4 %) of the patients had complications during or after mobilization, 1 (0.2 %) due to drain obstruction and 1 (0.2 %) due to accidental removal or displacement. CONCLUSION: Based on the data observed in the results, we found that the application of early mobilization in patients using subxiphoid drain after cardiac surgery is a safe and feasible conduct.

Clinical and functional outcomes associated with pulmonary complications after coronary artery bypass grafting.

INTRODUCTION: Coronary artery bypass grafting(CABG) is a surgical treatment for coronary artery disease aiming at improving symptoms and life expectancy. Despite this, there are pulmonary and functional complications that may arise during the postoperative period due to invasive mechanical ventilation(IMV), cardiopulmonary bypass and immobility, leading to longer hospital stays. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes related to pulmonary complications in the postoperative period of CABG. METHODS: Prospective cohort. During the ICU stay the patients were divided into: Non Complicated Group(NCG) who did not present complications and Complicated Group(CG) who presented complication. Functional variables were applied as the six-minute walk test(6MWT), gait speed, sit up and stand up test, Timed Up and Go, peripheral muscle strength, ventilatory, pulmonary function and Functional Independence Measure. These tests were applied preoperatively, at ICU discharge, hospital discharge and six months after surgery. RESULTS: The study evaluated 90 patients, 59 in the NCG and 31 CG. In the 6MWT there was a 2%(p = 0.43) decrease in the NCG, while the decrease was 13%(p < 0.01) in the CG. In the MRC the drop was 2%(p = < 0.01) in the CNG, while in the CG the drop was 14%(p = < 0.01). In MIP the NCG had a 6%(p = 0.67) decrease, while the CG had a 16%(p = < 0.01) decrease. CONCLUSION: Patients with postoperative complications of CABG may have reduced functional performance, muscle strength, and pulmonary function at hospital discharge and after six months.

Older adults, appendicular anthropometric measurements, and poor functional performance are predictors of sarcopenia in individuals with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: To identify predictors of sarcopenia (demographical, anthropometric measurements, tumor-related clinical characteristics, performance status, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin levels in individuals with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study selected diagnosed with HNSCC (n = 125). Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle strength and low physical performance. Association between sarcopenia and anthropometric assessments (weight, height, body mass index, triceps skinfold, mid-upper arm circumference [MUAC], mid-upper arm muscle circumference, mid-upper arm fat area [UFA], mid-upper arm bone free muscle area, calf circumference, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass and index), tumor clinical characteristics (anatomical site, tumor size, and cervical metastasis), performance status scale (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status [ECOG-PS]), and CRP and albumin levels was analyzed using binary logistic regression models. RESULTS: The diagnosis of sarcopenia was identified in 28 (22.4%) individuals with HNSCC. Being an older adult increases the odds of association with sarcopenia in individuals with HNSCC (odds ratio [OR] = 1.05). Increments in MUAC measurement reduce the odds of association with sarcopenia (OR = 0.69), while the increase in the UFA measurement increases the odds of association with sarcopenia (OR = 1.33). Poor ECOG-PS scores increase the odds of association with sarcopenia in individuals with HNSCC (OR = 5.54). CONCLUSION: Early identification of easy-to-perform, cost-effective predictors of sarcopenia tends to favor the implementation of personalized therapeutic and supportive interventions in individuals with HNSCC.

Analysis of Different Tidal Volumes on Ventilatory Mechanics and Arterial Blood Gas Variables in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases have been increasing gradually each year, and their incidence has reached 80%. Mechanical ventilation (MV) is essential in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery (CS) due to anesthetic induction. The tidal volume (TV) is a parameter that depends on the conditions of the respiratory system mechanics, aiming at the reduction of dynamic hyperinflation. Objective: Analyze the effect of different TVs on blood gas analysis variables and respiratory mechanics in patients submitted to CS. Materials and methods: This was an uncontrolled randomized clinical trial. Patients were randomized by lottery into the following two groups: One group was ventilated with a TV of 6 mL/kg; while the other received a TV of 8 mL/kg. After 30 minutes of admission with the VT, blood gas analysis data were evaluated, such as pH, oxygen arterial pressure (PaO2), arterial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2). The evaluation of respiratory mechanics was composed of static and dynamic compliance, airway resistance, and driving pressure. Results: A total of 78 patients were included, 58% of whom were males with a mean age of 55 ± 13 years. It was observed that there were no significant differences regarding respiratory mechanics, only the driving pressure presented statistical significance, the group 6 mL/kg was 8.3 ± 2.5 in the group 8 mL/kg 10.4 ± 2.1 presenting a value of (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, we conclude that different TVs do not significantly alter the blood gas variables and do not influence the respiratory mechanics of patients undergoing CS. How to cite this article: Cordeiro A, Souza A, de Brito Lima CR, Araújo J, Mascarenhas H, Guimarães A. Analysis of Different Tidal Volumes on Ventilatory Mechanics and Arterial Blood Gas Variables in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(12):930-933.

Disseminated Mycobacterium bovis Infection: A Rare Complication of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Immunotherapy.

Intravesical instillation of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a crucial adjunctive therapy in the treatment of bladder carcinoma. Its systemic complications are rare but include disseminated Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infections, the diagnosis of which is a challenging task that requires keen clinical awareness. We report the case of an adult male treated with BCG who presented with fever, nonspecific constitutional symptoms, hepatic cytolysis, and cholestasis. After a detailed workup, the diagnosis was made of disseminated M. bovis infection with hepatic, pulmonary, renal, and ureteral involvement. Prompt anti-tuberculosis treatment resulted in clinical and analytical improvement. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of this serious complication in patients with BCG exposure, as well as the difficulty in confirming the diagnosis for proper treatment.

Forearm floating with a terrible triad in the elbow after fall, case report.

Perilunate fracture dislocation with an elbow dislocation, it is referred to as a floating forearm. Very few cases have been described worldwide. We report a case of a 37-year-old man diagnosed with a floating forearm (trans-scaphoid perilunate fracture dislocation combined with a terrible triad injury), after a fall of the top of an olive tree. Urgent closed reduction of the elbow and wrist was obtained. A double approach to the wrist was used: dorsal approach to fix the scaphoid and to reduce the carpus and a volar approach to release the median nerve and repair the volar capsule. A lateral approach to the elbow was performed to fix the radial head and to repair the lateral collateral ligament. At 3 months postoperative, the patient had no pain in the elbow and in the wrist. He returned to Work with some restriction at 4-month post operatively.

Simultaneous Bilateral Anterior Shoulder Dislocation After Low-Energy Trauma: A Case Report.

Unilateral shoulder dislocation is known to be one of the most common joint dislocations. However, simultaneous bilateral shoulder dislocations are rare, especially anterior dislocations. We report a case of an 84-year-old woman who presented to the urgency room with symmetrical bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation 12 hours after falling on a treadmill. She presented with bilateral pain, functional impairment, prominent acromion, flattened shoulder, and, in the right upper limb, paresthesias on the dorsum of the hand and extension deficit of the fingers. Closed reduction of both shoulders was performed under sedation, and she was immobilized bilaterally with an arm sling in internal rotation. A full recovery was achieved six months after the injury.

The impact of integrase inhibitors on steatosis and fibrosis biomarkers in persons with HIV naïve to antiretroviral therapy.

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has a high prevalence among persons with HIV infection. Since Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs) are used worldwide and have been associated with weight gain, we must determine their effect in the development of NAFLD and Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) in these patients. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of INSTIs on variation of liver steatosis and fibrosis in the ART-naïve person with HIV, using Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI), Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4), BARD score and NAFLD Fibrosis Score (NFS). METHODS: We performed a monocentric, retrospective cohort study in ART-naïve persons with HIV that initiated INSTI based regimens between December 2019 and January 2022. Data was collected at baseline, 6 and 12 months after initiation. Demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics, hepatic steatosis, and fibrosis scores were compared between baseline and last visit at 12 months. Linear regression models were performed to analyse the associations between analytical data at baseline and hepatic scores variation during the 12 months of treatment. Models were performed unadjusted and adjusted for age and sex. RESULTS: 99 patients were included in our study. 82% were male and median age was 36 years. We observed a significant increase in body mass index (BMI), HDL, platelet count, albumin, and creatinine and a significant decrease in AST levels. HSI showed no statistically significant differences during follow-up (p = 0.114). We observed a significant decrease in FIB-4 (p = 0.007) and NFS (p = 0.002). BARD score showed a significant increase (p = 0.006). The linear regression model demonstrated a significant negative association between baseline HIV RNA and FIB-4 change (ß= -0.08, 95% CI [-0.16 to -0.00], p = 0.045), suggesting that higher HIV RNA loads at baseline were associated with a greater decrease in FIB-4. CONCLUSION: INSTIs seem to have no impact on hepatic steatosis, even though they were associated with a significant increase in BMI. This might be explained by the direct effect of a dolutegravir-containing regimen and/or by the "return-to-health effect" observed with ART initiation. Furthermore, INSTIs were associated with a reduction in risk of liver fibrosis in ART-naïve persons with HIV, possibly due to their effect on viral suppression.

Lychnophora ericoides Mart. (Brazilian arnica) ethanol extract accelerates the skin wound healing process: Evidence for its mechanism of action.

BACKGROUND: Lychnophora ericoides Mart, also known as the Brazilian arnica or fake arnica, belongs to the Asteraceae family. Leaves and roots are used in alcoholic and hydroalcoholic preparations for the treatment of wounds, inflammation, and pain. PURPOSE: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of L. ericoides ethanolic extract (EELE) on cutaneous wound healing and the mechanisms of action involved. METHODS: A total of 72 C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups of six animals each. An excisional wound was made in the dorsal region of each mouse. The test groups were topically treated with the vehicle, a positive control commercial reference drug, EELE ointment (5%), and EELE ointment (10%). The treatments were applied over 14 days. The wound area was measured every two days to verify the wound closure kinetics. On days 3, 7, and 14 the wound tissue samples were processed for Hematoxylin and Eosin, Masson-Trichrome, and Toluidine blue staining. The expression of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components, the vascular growth factor-A (VEGF-A), the basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2), and type I collagen genes were evaluated. Phytochemical analyses were performed using HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS/MS. RESULTS: The EELE (10%) significantly reduced the wound area compared to the treatments used for the other groups. Histological analysis demonstrated that wounds treated with L. ericoides for 14 days developed improved anatomical skin features, healed with hair follicles and sebaceous glands, increased collagen production and angiogenesis, and decreased the number of mast cells at the injury site. Real-time PCR data demonstrated that groups treated with EELE (10%) showed increased Type I collagen, VEGF-A, FGF-2, and AT1R and decreased ACE II and receptor MAS. The healing action of L. ericoides may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds, such as phenolic acids, chlorogenic acid derivatives, and C-glycoside flavonoids. CONCLUSION: Topical treatment with EELE increases important factors for wound healing: FGF, VEGF, collagen formation, and the expression of the proliferative axis of the renin-angiotensin system. For the first time, the present study shows the healing action of L. ericoides at the molecular level in an animal model. This process can be used as an alternative therapy for wound healing and the development of herbal therapy.

Gallic acid as a Sestrin (SESN2) activator and potential obesity therapeutic agent: A molecular docking study.

Sestrins (SESNs) are a family of evolutionarily conserved proteins among mammals. They have several body homeostatic functions such as antioxidant, metabolic, and anti-aging, and are required to regenerate hyperoxidized forms of peroxiredoxins and reactive oxygen species. Sestrin 2 has been studied as a therapeutic agent in obesity treatment. Gallic acid (GA) is a triphenolic compound with beneficial biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antioxidant effects. Recent studies demonstrated the GA's ability to reduce body weight gain and improve glycemic parameters. In this sense, the present study aims to investigate the GA activating potential of Sestrin using the molecular docking method. The 3D structure of gallic acid was retrieved from the NCBI PubChem database and the chemical structure of the Sestrin2 protein from the RCSB Protein Data Bank (5DJ4). The docking calculus was performed via UCSF Chimera and AutoDock Vinaprograms. The results showed that amino acids Arg390, Glu451, Trp444, Thr386, Arg448, Thr374, Tyr375, Asn376, Thr377, Leu389, His454, Ser450, His86, and Val455 are very important for GA stabilization, resembling the interactions that permit Leucine to activate SESN2. In this context, the obesity therapeutic property of GA can be understood from a Sestrin activating process through amino acid metabolism.

Inspiratory muscle training on quality of life and functional capacity after hospital discharge in patients submitted to coronary artery bypass grafting: A controlled clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: There is a gap in knowledge about functional capacity and quality of life in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) after hospital discharge and the contribution of inspiratory muscle training (IMT). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of IMT on functional capacity and quality of life after hospital discharge of patients undergoing CABG. METHODOLOGY: Clinical trial. In the preoperative period, patients assessed maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), quality of life using the SF-36 and functional capacity using the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). On the first postoperative day, they were randomized into: control group (CG) receiving routine assistance from the hospital; intervention group(IG) in addition to conventional physical therapy and submitted to an IMT protocol based on the glycemic threshold. Being reevaluated on the day of hospital discharge and post-discharge month. RESULTS: 41 patients were included. In the preoperative period of the MIP assessment of the CG, it was 104 ± 14 cmH2O already in GI it was 103 ± 19cmH2O (p = 0.78) CG at discharge 80 ± 13 cmH2O already in GI it was 92 ± 15cmH2O(p < 0.01), revaluation CG 91 ± 11 cmH2O versus 98 ± 12 cmH2O (p < 0.01) of the IG. In the 6MWT the preoperative of the GC group was 420 ± 70 m already in GI it was 429 ± 71 m (p = 0,89), CG at discharge 326 ± 79 m versus 373 ± 55 m and revaluation of the CG 377 ± 75 m and IG 410 ± 57 m (p < 0.01). Functional capacity, general health status, emotional aspects and limitations due to physical aspects were significant when the three moments were compared. CONCLUSION: IMT increases functional capacity, inspiratory muscle strength and quality of life after discharge from patients undergoing CABG.

Light-emitting diode (LED) photobiomodulation regulates thermogenesis and lipogenesis markers in adipose tissue and improves anthropometric and metabolic parameters in obese mice.

To evaluate the effects of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) irradiation on the expression of thermogenesis and lipogenesis-associated markers in adipose tissue and metabolic parameters of obese mice. Twenty-four male mice were divided into four groups: i) ST fed standard diet; ii) HCD fed hyperglycemic diet; iii) LED + I fed hyperglycemic diet and irradiated with LED in the interscapular region; iv) LED + A fed hyperglycemic diet and irradiated with LED in the abdominal region. The first phase of the study comprehended the induction of obesity for 12 weeks. Next, the animals were submitted to six irradiation sessions (days 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, and 21) using a 660-nm LED (5.77 J/cm2 at 48,1 mW/cm2). Anthropometric, biochemical, and histological parameters and the expression of thermogenesis and lipogenesis-associated markers were assessed in adipose tissue. There was diminished weight gain between the HCD and LED + A groups (ST: 0.37 ± 0.65; HCD: 3.10 ± 0.89; LED + I: -1.26 ± 0.83; LED + A: -2.07 ± 1.27 g; p < 0.018). There was a 33.3% and 23.8% reduction in epidydimal adipose tissue weight and a 25% and 10.7% in the visceral adiposity for the LED + I and LED + A groups, respectively, when compared with HCD. There was a decreased accumulation of fat droplets in adipose tissue in LED + A and LED + I groups. Additionally, LED irradiation was associated with increased mRNA expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the brown adipose tissue (ST: 2.27 ± 0.19; HCD: 1.54 ± 0.12; LED + I: 2.44 ± 0.22; p = 0.014) and decreased fatty acid synthetase (FAS) expression in epidydimal adipose tissue (ST: 0.79 ± 0.13; HCD: 1.59 ± 0.13; LED + A: 0.85 ± 0.04; p = 0.0008). LED treatment improved anthropometric parameters, possibly associated with the histological alterations, thermogenesis and lipogenesis markers in white adipose tissue, and expression modulation in brown adipose tissue.

Curcumin improves metabolic response and increases expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in adipose tissue of male offspring from obese dams.

Maternal obesity and dietary style in the pregnancy-lactation period may result in long-term effects on the metabolic health of the offspring, thus increasing the risk of diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has beneficial properties on metabolism. Accordingly, this study is intended to evaluate the effects of curcumin supplementation in pregnant and lactating female mice on the anthropometric, metabolic and molecular parameters of the offspring fed a hyperglycemic diet. The study was conducted with 24 male mice randomized into three groups: i) control group (SD) originating from dams fed a standard diet; ii) hyperglycemic group (HGD) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet; iii) curcumin group (CUR) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet and supplemented with curcumin in the pregnancy-lactation period. All offspring groups were fed a hyperglycemic diet for 12 weeks. Anthropometricand biochemical parameters were measured, as well as the expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in the interscapular brown and inguinal white adipose tissues. The results showed less weight gain in the CUR group, with a concomitant reduction in food consumption compared to the HGD group. Biochemical parameters indicated lower levels of total cholesterol, glucose, and insulin for the CUR group, in addition to improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The molecular evaluation indicated increased mRNA expression levels of UCP1 and PRDM16 in the brown and white adipose tissues. It is concluded that curcumin supplementation in the pregnancy-lactation period in dams with diet-induced obesity may lead to improvements in the offspring's metabolic phenotype, even if they are submitted to an obesogenic environment, possibly via thermogenesis activation.

Comparative study of dietary fat: lard and sugar as a better obesity and metabolic syndrome mice model.

BACKGROUND: Diet macronutrient heterogeneity hinders animal studies' data extrapolation from metabolic disorders to human diseases. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate different fat-diet compositions' effect on inducing lipid/glucose metabolism alterations in mice. METHODS: Swiss male mice were fed for 12 weeks with five different diets: Standard Diet (ST), American Institute of Nutrition 93 for growth (AIN93G) high-butter/high-sugar (HBHS), high-lard/high-sugar (HLHS), and high-oil/high-sugar diet (soybean oil) (HOHS). Several parameters, such as serum biochemistry, histology, and liver mRNA expression, were accessed. RESULTS: The main findings revealed that the HLHS diet dramatically altered liver metabolism inducing hepatic steatosis and increased total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, increasing liver CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (CEBP-α), Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and Catalase (CAT) mRNA expression. Moreover, the HLHS diet increased glucose intolerance and reduced insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: High-fat/high-sugar diets are efficient to induce obesity and metabolic syndrome-associated alterations, and diets enriched with lard and sugar showed more effective results.

Identification of potential biomarkers and survival analysis for oral squamous cell carcinoma: A transcriptomic study.

OBJECTIVE: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common neoplasms worldwide. The current study aimed to identify potential biomarkers associated with OSCC survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in atypical OSCC cases were identified using two public datasets: The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify the cutoff, and the candidate DEGs related to survival. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis using the categorized genes were employed to identify genes that impact the overall survival in OSCC. RESULTS: A total of 263 OSCC samples and 105 healthy tissues were used to identify 295 upregulated and 131 downregulated genes expressed only in non-smokers. ROC analyses identified 25 candidate genes associated with death. Survival analyses demonstrated that the following DEGs, namely CSTA, FGFR2, MMP19, OLR1, PCSK1, RAMP2, and CGB5, are potential OSCC prognostic factors. CONCLUSION: We found that CSTA, FGFR2, MMP19, OLR1, PCSK1, RAMP2, and CGB5 are associated with a low survival rate in OSCC. However, further studies are needed to validate our findings and facilitate the development of these factors as potential biomarkers for OSCC survival.