Role of Gut Microbiota in Dengue.

Dengue is a disease caused by a flavivirus (DENV) and transmitted by the bite of a mosquito, primarily the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. Previous studies have demonstrated a relationship between the host gut microbiota and the evolution of dengue. It seems to be a bidirectional relationship, in which the DENV can affect the microbiota by inducing alterations related to intestinal permeability, leading to the release of molecules from microbiota dysbiosis that can influence the evolution of dengue. The role of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the microbiota/dengue relationship is not well understood, but it is known that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is present in the intestinal tract and interacts with the gut microbiota. The possible effect of Ang II on the microbiota/Ang II/dengue relationship can be summarised as follows: the presence of Ang II induced hypertension, the increase in angiotensinogen, chymase, and microRNAs during the disease, the induction of vascular dysfunction, the production of trimethylamine N-oxide and the brain/microbiota relationship, all of which are elements present in dengue that could be part of the microbiota/Ang II/dengue interactions. These findings suggest the potential use of Ang II synthesis blockers and the use of AT1 receptor antagonists as therapeutic drugs in dengue.

Influence of different finishing, aging with coffee, and repolishing protocols on the properties of nanoparticle composite resins.

Background: Considering the variability of finishing protocols for composite resins, the literature does not offer a consensus about the influence of these approaches to obtain a final polishing and whether the physical properties of these composite resins change at different analysis times. Therefore, the study analyzed the microhardness, roughness, color stability, and gloss of a nanocomposite resin with different finishing, aging with coffee, and repolishing protocols. Material and Methods: Nanocomposite resin samples were divided into three finishing protocol groups: Diamond burs (F and FF), multi-fluted tungsten carbide burs (18 and 30 flutes), and coarse and medium abrasive discs (Soflex-3M). All protocols used spiral rubber tips (F and FF) for polishing. Knoop microhardness (KHN), roughness (Ra), color changes (ΔE00 and YI), and gloss (GU) were analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy provided images of resins and finishing and polishing instruments. Results: Resin KHN (p<0.001) decreased, and Ra (p<0.001), ΔE00 (p<0.001), and YI (p<0.001) increased after aging with coffee, regardless of finishing protocol. Abrasive discs showed lower color changes, YI, and Ra and higher GU. Repolishing restored KHN and Ra but not ΔE00 (p>0.05) and YI (p>0.05). Conclusions: Abrasive disc finishing reduced roughness and yellowness and increased nanocomposite resin gloss after aging with coffee. Key words:Color, Composite resins, Dental materials, Staining, Surface properties.

Role of angiotensin II in cellular entry and replication of dengue virus.

Previous studies have demonstrated the relevance of several soluble molecules in the pathogenesis of dengue. In this regard, a possible role for angiotensin II (Ang II) in the pathophysiology of dengue has been suggested by the observation of a blockade of Ang II in patients with dengue, increased expression of molecules related to Ang II production in the plasma of dengue patients, increased expression of circulating cytokines and soluble molecules related to the action of Ang II, and an apparent relationship between DENV, Ang II effects, and miRNAs. In addition, in ex vivo experiments, the blockade of Ang II AT1 receptor and ACE-1 (angiotensin converting enzyme 1), both of which are involved in Ang II production and its function, inhibits infection of macrophages by DENV, suggesting a role of Ang II in viral entry or in intracellular viral replication of the virus. Here, we discuss the possible mechanisms of Ang II in the entry and replication of DENV. Ang II has the functions of increasing the expression of DENV entry receptors, creation of clathrin-coated vesicles, and increasing phagocytosis, all of which are involved in DENV entry. This hormone also modulates the expression of the Rab5 and Rab7 proteins, which are important in the endosomal processing of DENV during viral replication. This review summarizes the data related to the possible involvement of Ang II in the entry of DENV into cells and its replication.

Possible role of metformin as an antidepressant in diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: Metformin (MET) is a drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes due to its insulin receptor sensitizing properties and anti-hepatic gluconeogenesis effect. One of the comorbidities in diabetes is the depression. This review aimed at summarizing the results of the available MET, depression and diabetes studies to clarify the possible role of MET in the depression during diabetes. METHODS: A bibliographic search on PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Central for studies referring to MET, depression and diabetes. RESULTS: Several studies have associated depression to the chronic inflammation that characterizes diabetes. Additionally MET is an anti-inflammatory molecule that generally acts by activating AMPK and inhibiting the NF-kB factor. In the context of diabetes, MET can act directly as an anti-inflammatory drug as well as inhibiting other pro-inflammatory molecules. In this regard, MET may inhibit the pro-inflammatory effects of angiotensin II. By facilitating the action of insulin and reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis, MET reduces circulating glucose levels, decreasing the formation of advanced glycation end products and therefore inflammation. During diabetes, the gut microbiota and the permeability of the intestinal barrier are altered, causing high levels of circulating lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which induce inflammation. MET can normalize the microbiota and the intestinal barrier permeability reducing the levels of LPS and inflammation. Clinical and experimental studies show the anti-depressant effect of MET mediated by different mechanisms both at the peripheral level and in the central nervous system. CONCLUSION: Therefore, MET as an anti-inflammatory drug can decrease symptoms of depression and represents a therapeutic approach to improve the psychological state of patients with diabetes. Additionally, insulin also has an anti-inflammatory effect that could act together with MET.

Apoptosis in post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and mechanisms for failed of inflammation resolution.

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is a condition resulting from infection by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The main mechanism involves the formation of immune complexes formed in the circulation or in situ on the glomerular basement membrane, which activates complement and causes various inflammatory processes. Cellular mechanisms have been reported in the induction of kidney damage represented by the infiltration of innate cells (neutrophils and monocyte/macrophages) and adaptive cells (CD4 + lymphocytes and CD8 + lymphocytes) of the immune system. These cells induce kidney damage through various mechanisms. It has been reported that nephritogenic antigens are capable of inducing inflammatory processes early, even before the formation of immune complexes. Usually, this disease progresses towards clinical and renal normalization; however, in a smaller number of patients, it evolves into chronicity and persistent kidney damage. Hypotheses have been proposed regarding the mechanisms underlying this progression to chronicity including failure to induce apoptosis and failure to phagocytose apoptotic cells, allowing these cells to undergo membrane permeabilization and release pro-inflammatory molecules into the environment, thereby perpetuating renal inflammation. Other mechanisms involved include persistent infection, genetic background of the host's complement system, tubulointerstitial changes, and pre-existing kidney damage due to old age and comorbidities.

Angiotensin II and human obesity. A narrative review of the pathogenesis / Angiotensina II y obesidad humana. Revisión narrativa de la patogénesis

Abstract Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a hormone and the main effector of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). This peptide has crucial pathophysiological effects on hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, endothelial proliferation, inflammation and tissue remodelling through G protein-coupled receptors. The pro-inflammatory role of Ang II has been reported in various inflammatory processes. Obesity is linked to a chronic inflammatory process which in turn is the cause of some of its morbidities. Ang II is related to the comorbidities related to the comorbidities of obesity, which include alterations in the heart, kidney, hypertension and coagulation. In this regard, activation of AT1 receptors by Ang II can induce an inflammatory process mediated by the transcription factor NF-kB, triggering inflammation in various systems that are related to the comorbidities observed in obesity. The aim of this review was to highlight the pro-inflammatory effects of Ang II and the alterations induced by this hormone in various organs and systems in obesity. The search was done since 1990 through Medline, EMBASE and PubMed, using the keywords: angiotensin II; angiotensin II, obesity; angiotensin II, kidney, obesity; angiotensin II, coagulation, obesity; angiotensin II, inflammation, obesity; angiotensin II, adipose tissue, obesity; angiotensin II, hypertension, obesity; angiotensin II, insulin resistance, obesity; angiotensin II, adiponectin, leptin, obesity; angiotensin II, COVID-19, obesity. Angiotensin II through its interaction with its AT1 receptor, can induce alterations in diverse systems that are related to the comorbidities observed in obesity. Therapeutic strategies to decrease the production and action of Ang II could improve the clinical conditions in individuals with obesity.

Resumen La angiotensina II (Ang II) es una hormona y el principal efector del sistema renina-angiotensina (SRA). Este péptido tiene importantes efectos fisiopatológicos en la hipertensión, la hipertrofia cardíaca, la proliferación endotelial, la inflamación y la remodelación tisular a través de receptores acoplados a la proteína G. El papel pro-inflamatorio de la Ang II se ha reportado en diversos procesos inflamatorios. La obesidad está ligada a un proceso inflamatorio crónico que a su vez es causa de algunas de sus morbilidades. Se ha demostrado que la Ang II está relacionada con las comorbilidades de la obesidad, que incluyen alteraciones en el corazón, el riñón, la hipertensión y la coagulación. En este sentido, la activación de los receptores AT1 por la Ang II puede inducir un proceso inflamatorio mediado por el factor de transcripción NFkB desencadenado inflamación en diversos sistemas que se relacionan con las co-morbilidades observadas en la obesidad. El propósito de esta revisión fue destacar el efecto pro-inflamatorio de la Ang II y las alteraciones inducidas por esta hormona en diversos órganos y sistemas en la obesidad. La búsqueda se hizo desde 1990 a través de Medline, EMBASE and PubMed, utilizando las palabras clave: angiotensina II; angiotensina II, obesidad; angiotensina II, riñón, obesidad; angiotensina II, coagulación, obesidad; angiotensina II, inflamación, obesidad; angiotensin II, adipose tissue, obesidad; angiotensin II, hipertensión, obesidad; angiotensin II, resistencia a la insulina, obesidad; angiotensin II, adiponectina, leptina, obesidad; angiotensina II, COVID-19, obesidad. La angiotensina II a través de su interacción con su receptor AT1 puede inducir alteraciones en diversos sistemas que están relacionados con las comorbilidades observadas en la obesidad. Estrategias terapeúticas para disminuir su producción y la acción de la AngII pudieran mejorar las condiciones clínicas en individuos con obesidad.

Knowledge and practice of dentists in processing polishing points: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Adequately processing polishing points used to polish composite resin restorations is necessary for microbiological control in dentistry, but there is no specific protocol to guide professionals. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of dentists in processing these instruments. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study included the application of an online questionnaire via Google Forms and social media promotion. The study evaluated the association of field of activity, time since graduation, age, and sex of professionals with processing practice. The statistical analysis was performed with absolute and relative frequencies and logistic and Poisson regressions at a 5% significance level. RESULTS: Overall, 473 questionnaires were analyzed. A rate of 51% of professionals reported using inadequate processing methods, and almost 68% claimed to have good knowledge of the topic. Both regression analyses were significantly associated, showing a direct effect of age and time since graduation on adequate processing practices. CONCLUSIONS: Although most professionals reported understanding the processing of polishing points, they do not perform it most adequately. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: An expressive number of dentists process polishing points improperly. The topic is significant for representing a semi-critical instrument extensively used in esthetic restorations.

Cardiac myofibroblast induces decreased expression of major histocompatibility complex class II (Ia) on rat monocyte/macrophages.

The up-regulation of HLA antigens is important during heart inflammatory events and myofibroblasts may modulate the expression of this molecule in tissues. To test this possibility, the effect of cardiac myofibroblast:macrophage contact and the production of myofibroblast inhibitor factor(s) on the macrophage HLA (Ia) expression were studied. Listeria monocytogenes-elicited Ia + peritoneal macrophages (high Ia expression) were co-cultured with cardiac myofibroblasts for 3 and 7 days (myofibroblast contact). Proteosa peptone-elicited macrophages (low Ia expression) were cultured for 3 days with interferon gamma (INF-γ) and myofibroblast conditioned medium (FCM). Ia expression was analyzed by immunofluorescence and by radioimmune assay. Myofibroblast contact induced decreased expression of Ia molecule on macrophages (p < 0.001). This was confirmed by the radioimmune analysis in macrophage: myofibroblast co-cultures (p < 0.001). Double staining for Ia and CD14 showed that only CD14 positive cells (macrophages) expressed Ia molecule. FCM was capable of diminishing Ia expression induced by INF-γ on macrophages (p < 0.001). Decreased Ia macrophage expression induced by myofibroblasts could be important in the heart inflammation's resolution, probably involving Ia redistribution on cell: cell contact and myofibroblast inhibitor factor production.

Increased C-reactive protein and decreased Interleukin-2 content in serum from obese individuals with or without insulin resistance: Associations with leukocyte count and insulin and adiponectin content.

AIMS: Chronic inflammation in obesity is associated with co-morbidities such as, hyperglycemia, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Leukocytes play an important role in this inflammation and C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-2 (IL-2) can be important effectors during the immune response in obesity; however, the initial inflammatory events in obesity remain unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the circulating levels of CRP, IL-2, insulin and adiponectin, their association and the association with leukocyte count in obese individuals without co-morbidities and with or without insulin resistance (IR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nineteen obese non-diabetic and 9 lean subjects were studied for serum levels of CRP, IL-2, insulin, adiponectin, lipids, glycated hemoglobin, glycemia, for homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), arterial pressure and anthropometric parameters, and for leukocyte counts. Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N/L) was calculated using the loge of leukocyte counts. Associations were determined by Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: None of the studied groups presented co-morbidities and two groups of obese individuals with normal or high levels of insulin (IR) were found. Increased CRP concentration and decreased IL-2 and adiponectin concentrations in obese were observed. Positive correlation between leukocyte type counts with CRP in obese with IR was found; however, no correlations with IL-2 in obese were observed. Insulin in obese were positively correlated with CRP and negatively correlated with IL-2 in IR obese individuals. Adiponectin in obese was negatively correlated with CRP. CONCLUSION: CRP and IL-2 may represent two important effectors in the early inflammatory events in obese individuals without co-morbidities. Adiponectin and insulin may be involved in anti-inflammatory events.

Role of angiotensin II in experimental Venezuelan equine encephalitis in rats.

Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The inflammation induced by the VEE virus is associated with a high mortality rate in mice. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a pro-inflammatory molecule, is produced in the normal rat brain. There is no information about the role of this molecule in the inflammatory events occurring during VEE and the effect of inflammation on the mortality rate in VEE-virus-infected rats. This study was designed to determine the role of Ang II in VEE and to analyze the effect of inflammation on mortality in infected rats. Two groups of rats were studied: 1) Virus-infected animals and controls (n = 60) were treated with losartan (a blocker of the Ang II-AT1 receptor) or with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC, an inhibitor of NF-κB) or left untreated and analyzed for morbidity and mortality. 2) Animals treated using the same protocol (n = 30) were sacrificed at day 4 postinfection and analyzed by immunohistochemistry and histopathology and for cytokine production. Increased expression of Ang II, ICAM-1, ED-1 and cytokines (IL-1α, MCP-1, IL-6 and IL-10) in infected animals was observed. The main histopathology findings were dilated capillaries and capillaries with endothelial detachment. Losartan and PDTC reduced the expression of IL-1α, MCP-1, and IL-10, and the number of dilated capillaries and capillaries with endothelial detachment. Survival analysis showed that 100% mortality was reached earlier in infected rats treated with losartan (day 14) or PDTC (day 11) than in untreated animals (day 19). These findings suggest that Ang II plays a role in VEE and that brain inflammation is protective against viral infection.

Increased proinflammatory markers and lipoperoxidation in obese individuals: Inicial inflammatory events?

BACKGROUND: Chronic inflammation associated to obesity increases the risk for developing insulin resistance (IR), hyperglycemia, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. The initial factors involved in generating the inflammatory events in the obesity remain unclear. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine inflammatory and oxidative markers in the blood of obese individuals with normal clinical and biochemical parameters and with or without IR. METHODS: Nineteen obese non-diabetic and nine lean subjects were studied for serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß, adiponectin, angiotensin II, insulin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the expressions of RAGE (advanced glycation end product receptor), AT1 (Ang II receptor), s100A12 protein (RAGE ligand) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in circulating mononuclear cells (CMC) by available antibodies and commercial kits. CMC were also cultured to determine pro-inflammatory mediators. RESULTS: Insulin was increased in obese subjects with IR. Decreased serum adiponectin in obese individuals and increased TNF-α, IL-1ß and CMC bearing RAGE, AT1 and s100A12 in obese individuals without IR were found. High values of serum MDA in obese subjects were observed. Similar TNF-content in cultures from obese and controls, increased cellular IL-1ß content in cultures from obese individuals without IR and high content of MDA in supernatants from obese individual cultures were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The inflammatory events were mainly observed in obese individuals without IR. The absent of inflammatory events and high levels of insulin in obese subjects with IR, suggest a protector role of insulin for developing inflammatory events. These data can represent initial aspects of the chronic inflammation observed in the obesity.

Association of obesity with leukocyte count in obese individuals without metabolic syndrome.

AIMS: Inflammation in obesity is associated to insulin resistance (IR), hyperglycemia, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Leukocytes play an important role in obesity associated inflammation. The initial factors that generate the inflammatory events in the obesity remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the association of circulating leukocytes with clinical and biochemical parameters in obese individuals with clinical and biochemical parameters in normal range and with or without IR. METHODS: Nineteen obese non-diabetic and 9 lean subjects were studied for serum levels of insulin, lipids, glycated hemoglobin, glycemia, for clinical parameters as HOMA-IR, arterial pressure and anthropometric parameters, and for leukocyte counts. Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N/L) was calculated using the loge of leukocyte counts. Association between leukocytes and studied parameters was determined by Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: Two groups of obese individuals were observed: with high levels of insulin (with IR) and with normal levels (without IR). Positive correlations were observed between leukocyte and lymphocyte counts with body mass index and HOMA-IR and negative correlation with decreased HDL levels. Lymphocytes correlated with increased levels of insulin. Leukocytes and neutrophils correlated positively with increased visceral fat and liver steatosis. These associations were absent in the obese group without IR. N/L ratio did not show correlations with studied parameters. The leukocyte associations were mainly observed in obese individuals with IR. CONCLUSIONS: These data may represent initial leukocyte associations with morbidity features and define two different obese individuals that may evolve to the chronic inflammation observed in the obesity.

The problematization method applied to the subject nursing administration / Metodologia da problematização aplicada a disciplina de administração em enfermagem

The aim of this paper is to enhance reflections on the impact of the Brazilian National Curricular Guidelines in undergraduate Nursing education, in the subject Nursing Administration. Another aim is to cooperate with the elaboration of strategies to be developed for the construction of professional competences, in accordance with the education and professional qualification standards demanded in the job world. The guidelines prioritize the preparation of a generalist, critical and reflexive nurse, with competences and skills to act in distinct realities, mainly in the Unified Health System. The importance of teachers’ active, encouraging and problematizing participation is emphasized, helping students to gain “knowledge” and “know-how” in their academic education, permitting competency development for nursing education.

Este artículo tiene como objetivo promover la reflexión sobre el impacto de las Directrices Curriculares Nacionales para el pregrado de Enfermería, en la asignatura de Administración. También se pretende colaborar en la elaboración y desarrollo de estrategias para la construcción de competencias profesionales, de acuerdo con los estándares de formación y cualificación profesional exigidos en el mundo laboral. Las directrices priorizan la formación de un enfermero generalista, crítico y reflexivo con competencias y habilidades para actuar en distintas realidades, principalmente en un Sistema Único de Salud. Se destaca la importancia de la participación activa de los profesores, incentivadora y problematizadora, que ayude al alumno a “saber” y a “saber hacer” durante la formación académica, permitiendo el desarrollo de las competencias para la formación de enfermeros.

Este artigo tem como objetivo promover a reflexão sobre o impacto das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para o pré-graduação de Enfermagem, na matéria de Administração. Também se pretende colaborar na elaboração de estratégias a ser desenvolvidas para a construção de concorrências profissionais, de acordo aos padrões de formação e qualificação profissional exigidos pelo mundo trabalhista. As diretrizes priorizam a formação de um enfermeiro generalista, crítico e reflexivo com concorrências e habilidades para atuar em diferentes realidades, principalmente num Sistema Único de Saúde. Destaca-se a importância da participação ativa dos professores, incentivadora e problematizadora, que ajude ao aluno a “saber” e a “saber fazer” durante a formação acadêmica, permitindo o desenvolvimento das concorrências para a formação de enfermeiros.

Role of angiotensin II in the brain inflammatory events during experimental diabetes in rats.

Hyperglycemia during diabetes is one of the causes of encephalopathy. However, diabetes causes chronic inflammatory complications and among them is peripheral neuropathy. Since, diabetes is one of the major risk factors for cerebrovascular disease, inflammatory process could take place in central nervous system (CNS). To test that hypothesis, experiments to determine inflammatory events in CNS during streptozotocin-induced diabetes were performed. Diabetes was induced by intravenous injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Brain angiotensin II (Ang II), monocyte/macrophage (ED-1 positive cells), CD8, the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), the lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) and superoxide anion were determined by hystochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase activity were measured in brain homogenates by enzymatic and biochemical methods. This research showed increased expressions of Ang II, ICAM-1, LFA-1 and CD8 positive cells in diverse zones of cerebrum and cerebellum of diabetic rats (week 8). Treatment of diabetic animals with losartan or enalapril reduced the expression of those molecules. Values of lipid peroxidation, nitrite content and superoxide anion expression remained similar to control rats. Only decreased activity of catalase was observed in diabetic animals, but losartan or enalapril failed to modify catalase activity. This study suggests the presence of Ang II-mediated brain inflammatory events in diabetes probably mediated by AT1 receptors.

Análise da prática docente em um curso de graduação em enfermagem / Analysis of teaching practice in an undergraduate nursing course

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo geral analisar os elementos conceituais, filosóficos, metodológicos e políticos que fundamentam o Curso de Graduação em Enfermagem e a prática docente de uma instituição de ensino superior. Especificamente, objetivou-se: identificar os elementos conceituais, filosóficos, metodológicos e políticos dos Projetos Políticos Pedagógicos que fundamentaram a prática docente nos 11 anos de um Curso de Enfermagem; descrever como essa prática se desenvolveu durante os 11 anos do Curso de Enfermagem e, discutir os elementos que sustentam a prática docente de um Curso de Enfermagem. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória, de abordagem qualitativa composta por uma amostra de 21 docentes e 25 discentes de um Curso de Enfermagem de uma universidade pública brasileira. A coleta de dados ocorreu em três fases: na 1ª fase, de investigação documental, foram pesquisados dados dos quatro projetos pedagógicos do Curso e os planos de ensino; na 2ª fase, os dados foram originados de uma oficina com discentes do Curso, que utilizou a metodologia da problematização e, a 3ª fase, por meio de entrevistas com docentes do curso. A análise foi inspirada no método da triangulação de dados sendo que os resultados da oficina discente foram descritos textualmente, e os advindos dos documentos e entrevistas, passaram por uma análise prévia pela técnica de análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Os dados documentais permitiram acompanhar as mudanças ocorridas nos elementos norteadores do curso, a oficina propiciou a avaliação discente da prática docente e, as entrevistas foram classificadas em quatro categorias: influências externas na prática docente; processo de avaliação discente; mudanças identificadas na prática docente; identidade docente. Como resultados constataram que o curso vivencia um movimento de mudança estrutural em seu projeto pedagógico; os docentes desenvolvem iniciativas isoladas de mudança metodológica e conceitual; ocorre um aumento na busca pela qualificação docente e valorização do relacionamento professor-aluno; os planos de ensino apresentam divergências das propostas dos projetos pedagógicos; a prática docente é individualizada, provocando desmotivação docente e dificuldades no processo de avaliação do discente; o processo de aprendizado é fragmentado pela ausência de integração interdisciplinar; há necessidade de ampliar as discussões pedagógicas. Este estudo contribuiu para visualizar os avanços e os desafios vivenciados pelo curso, além de facilitar a compreensão do universo de relações no qual os docentes estão inseridos e como eles articulam sua prática cotidiana com essas influências.

This research focused on the development of teaching practice in graduation teaching and had the general aim of analyzing the conceptual, philosophical, methodological and political elements that underlie the Undergraduate Nursing Course and teaching practice of an institution of higher education. Specifically, it aimed to: identify the conceptual, philosophical, methodological and political elements of the Pedagogical Political Projects which based the teaching practice in a 11-year of a nursing course; describe how teaching practice developed during the 11 years of Nursing Course, discuss the elements that underpin the teacher' practice in a nursing course. This is an exploratory research with qualitative approach consisting of a sample of 21 teachers and 25 students from a nursing course at a Brazilian public university. Data collection occurred in three phases: in the 1st phase, of documentation researching, data were collected from the four educational projects of the Course and the teaching plans; in the 2nd phase, data were collected in a workshop with students from the course, which used the methodology of questioning, and in the 3rd phase, through interviews with teachers of the course. The analysis was inspired by the method of data triangulation, knowing the results coming from the student's workshop were reported verbatim, and the data from documents and interviews went through a preliminary analysis with the content analysis technique proposed by Bardin. The documentary data permitted to monitor the changes in the guiding elements of the course, the workshop allowed an student' evaluation from the teacher' practice and, from interviews, four categories were described: external influences on teaching practice, the student evaluation process, changes identified in teaching practice; teacher identities. As a result, the analysis with the perspective of triangulation provided the verification that the course experiences a movement of structural change in its pedagogical project, teachers develop isolated initiatives of methodological and conceptual change, there is an increase in the quest for teaching qualification and enhancement in the teacher-student relationship, teaching plans showed divergences of proposals from the educational projects, the teaching practice is individualized, causing discouragement in teaching and difficulties in evaluation process of the student, the learning process is fragmented by the lack of interdisciplinary integration, there is need to expand pedagogical discussions. This study contributed to visualize the progress and the challenges experienced by the course, and to facilitate understanding of the universe of relationships in which teachers are inserted and how they articulate their everyday practice with the influences.

Esta investigación se centró en el desarrollo de la práctica docente en la educación superior y tiene el objetivo de analizar los elementos conceptuales, filosóficos, metodológicos y políticos que subyacen en la enfermería de pregrado y prácticas de enseñanza de una institución de educación superior. En concreto, se pretende: identificar los elementos conceptuales, filosóficos, metodológicos y políticos de Proyectos Políticos Pedagógicos que subyacen a la práctica docente en los 11 años de un curso de enfermería; describir cómo la práctica docente se desenvolvio durante los 11 años de existencia del curso de enfermería; discutir los elementos que apoyan la práctica docente de un curso de enfermería. Este es un enfoque exploratorio, cualitativo, que consiste en una muestra de 21 profesores y 25 alumnos de un curso de enfermería en una universidad pública en Brasil. La recolección de datos ocurrió en tres fases: la primera fase, investigación documental, los datos fueron recolectados a partir de cuatro proyectos pedagógicos de los cursos y planes de enseñanza; en la segunda fase, los datos fueron recogidos en un seminario con los alumnos del curso, donde fue utilizado la metodología de problematización y, la tercera fase, con entrevistas a los profesores del curso. El análisis, fue inspirado en el método de triangulación de datos, donde los resultados del seminario se informaran de manera textual y, los de los documentos y las entrevistas se sometieron a un análisis preliminar mediante la técnica de análisis de contenido propuesto por Bardin. Los datos documentales mostraron los cambios en los elementos de guía del curso, el seminario promovió una evaluación de los alumnos acerca de la práctica docente y de las entrevistas surgieron cuatro categorías: las influencias externas sobre la práctica docente, el proceso de evaluación de los estudiantes, los cambios identificados en la práctica docente; identidad del docente. El resultado reveló que el curso está en un movimiento de cambio estructural en su proyecto educativo, algunos de los docentes desenvuelven iniciativas de cambio metodológico y conceptual, hay un aumento en la búsqueda de la calificación de los docentes y el mejoramiento de la relación profesor-alumno; los planes de enseñanza tienen diferencias de las propuestas de los proyectos educativos; la enseñanza práctica es individual, conduciendo a la desmotivación de los docentes y provocando dificultades en la evaluación del estudiante; el proceso de aprendizaje se encuentra fragmentado por la falta de integración interdisciplinaria; es necesario aumentar las discusiones pedagógicas. Este estudio ayudó a ver el progreso y los desafíos experimentados por el curso, y para facilitar la comprensión del universo de relaciones en las que los profesores se encuentran y cómo sus prácticas cotidianas se articulan con esas influencias.

Experimental depression induces renal oxidative stress in rats.

Depression has been associated to inflammatory and oxidative events. Previous report has shown renal oxidative stress in patients with depression. In order to analyze if depressive status is related to renal oxidative and inflammatory events, Sprague Dawley rats were submitted to forced swimming test (FST) and the renal oxidative metabolism, monocyte-macrophage infiltration and Angiotensin II (Ang II) expression were determined. Rats were submitted to FST daily (30 min) for 15 days. Motor activity was analyzed before FST. Kidney sections were homogenized to measure nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase activity by enzymatic and biochemical methods. Renal frozen sections were studied for superoxide anion (O2-), monocyte/macrophage infiltration and Ang II expression by histochemical and immunofluorescence methods. In addition, three groups of FST rats were treated with losartan, sertraline or water for 18 days with further renal O2-analysis. In the FST group, struggle time, motor activity, food intake and body weight gain were found decreased. Increased number of glomerular, interstitial and tubular O2-positive cells was observed in FST rats. High renal content of nitrite/nitrate (NO), MDA and decreased amount of GSH were found in FST rats. Values of renal ED-1 or Ang II positive cells in FST rats remained similar to controls; however, AT1 receptor blocking (losartan) and sertraline reduced both depressive-like behavior and renal O2-expression. These data suggests that depression-like behavior in rats is involved in kidney oxidative stress probably mediated by AT1 receptors.

Polimorfismo Pro12Ala del gen PPAR-γ 2 y síndrome metabólico: Estudio preliminar / Pro12Ala polymorphism of the PPAR-gamma2 gene and the metabolic syndrome: Preliminary study

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia del polimorfismo Pro12Ala del gen PPARgamma2 en individuos no emparentados con síndrome metabólico de la ciudad de Maracaibo. Se seleccionaron 50 individuos (22 con síndrome metabólico y 28 sin síndrome metabólico) entre 22 y 58 años. A cada individuo se le realizó una evaluación clínica, nutricional y bioquímica. Para analizar la secuencia de la variante Pro12Ala del gen PPAR se empleó PCR y digestión enzimática de los fragmentos de restricción del polimorfismo (PCR-RFLP). En los individuos con síndrome metabólico el porcentaje de portadores del alelo Ala fue de 13,6%, mientras que en el grupo sin síndrome metabólico fue de 32,14%. La frecuencia para el alelo Ala del polimorfismo Pro12Ala fue de 0,12 y para el alelo Pro fue de 0,88. Los individuos con síndrome metabólico y portadores del alelo Ala presentaron niveles más bajos de triglicéridos y col-HDL más alto. Se concluye que la presencia del alelo Ala en individuos con síndrome metabólico mostró un efecto protector sobre el perfil lipídico.

The aim of this paper was to determine the prevalence of the polymorphism pro12ala in non-related individuals with metabolic syndrome from Maracaibo-Venezuela. Fifty subjects (22 with metabolic syndrome and 28 without metabolic syndrome) between 22 to 58 years of age were selected. For each individual, biochemical, nutritious, and clinical evaluations were carried out. PCR and restriction-fragment length polymorphism enzyme digestion were used to analyze the Pro12Ala sequence variant of the PPAR gene. The distribution of the Ala allele was 13.6% in the individuals with metabolic syndro- and 32.14% in the group without metabolic syndrome. The frequency distributions of the PPAR gamma sequence variants were 0.12 for Ala variant and 0.88 for Pro. The subjects with the metabolic syndrome and carriers of the Ala 12 allele had lower concentration of triglycerides and higher HDL-C. It can be concluded that the Ala12 allele in individuals with metabolic syndrome had a protective effect on the lipid profile.