Evaluation of the effects of SPONDIAS MOMBIN extract as an alternative antimicrobial drug

The extract of Spondias mombin has constituents which may improve psychiatric disorders, in addition to having antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial activity. But despite having several benefits, it is necessary to assess whether the extract may interfere with cell metabolism so furthermore its microbicide potential can be explored. Fifteen Wistar rats were used, divided into four groups (control group; control with extract; hyperlipidemic diet; hyperlipidemic diet and extract). For 12 weeks, the animals were weighed and their blood glucose was assessed. Afterwards, they were euthanized, and the biological material was collected. The evaluation confirmed the efficacy of the extract of S. mombin against cell metabolism of rats, without negatively altering cell viability; the group of rats with an hyperlipidemic diet showed an increase in body weight; however, in the individual assessment of the organs, there were no significant changes. The glycemic index, liver parameters, lipids, and mineral ions did not show changes. Furthermore, the antimicrobial potential of S. mombin extract was observed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 and Staphylococcus aureus BLACC. The results suggest that S. mombin extract did not interfere with cell viability, did not show cytotoxicity to cells that were exposed to it, nor did it interfere with the metabolism, organs, and biochemical indices of rats with a standard or hyperlipidemic diet. Considering such characteristics and the potential activities observed in this present study, additional evaluation should be conducted to further assess the role of S. mombin extract as a source of new alternative antimicrobial drug as well as its possible beneficial activity to the cardiovascular system.

Process optimization of physicochemical properties of spray-dried Hydrocotyle umbellata L. extract

Abstract Hydrocotyle umbellata L., Araliaceae, is a species that is recommended in Ayurvedic medicine for its effects on the central nervous system, such as anxiolytic and memory-stimulant effects. Despite the medicinal potential of this species, its phytopharmaceutical and technological potential to produce standardized extracts has not been investigated. This study analyzes the influence of spray drying parameters on the contents of the chemical markers (total phenolic, total flavonoid, and hibalactone) and the functional properties of H. umbellata extract. The optimization of drying conditions was performed using a central composite design combined with response surface methodology and desirability function approach. The mathematical models fitted to experimental data indicated that all the evaluated drying parameters significantly influenced the chemical contents. The optimal conditions were: inlet temperature of 120 °C, feed flow rate of 4 mL min-1, and colloidal silicon dioxide:maltodextrin ratio of 16%:4%. Under these conditions, the powder samples had spherical particles and desirable physicochemical and functional properties, such as low water activity and moisture content, good product recovery, reconstitution, and flowability. Thus, spray drying might be a promising technique for processing standardized H. umbellata extracts.

Effects of liquid extract from Plinia cauliflora fruits residues on Chinese hamsters biochemical parameters / Efeitos do extrato líquido de resíduos de frutos de Plinia cauliflora sobre os parâmetros bioquímicos de hamsters chineses

Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, popularly known as jabuticaba, is rich in polyphenols. Phenolic compounds exhibit several biological properties, which reflect on biomarkers such as biochemical parameters. In the present study, we evaluated the plasmatic levels of glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid of Chinese hamsters fed for 45 days with a regular diet or cholesterol-enriched diet supplemented with a liquid extract obtained from P. cauliflora fruits residues standardized in ellagic acid and total phenolic compounds. The results showed that the concentrated extract obtained from jabuticaba residues increased the glycemia of animals fed with a regular diet and reduced the plasmatic uric acid levels of animals fed with a cholesterol-enriched diet. Since hyperuricemia is considered to be a significant risk factor of metabolic disorders and the principal pathological basis of gout, the liquid extract from P. cauliflora fruits residues would be a promising candidate as a novel hypouricaemic agent for further investigation.

Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, popularmente conhecida como jabuticaba, é rica em polifenois. Os compostos fenólicos apresentam diversas propriedades biológicas, que refletem em biomarcadores, como os parâmetros bioquímicos. No presente estudo, avaliamos os níveis plasmáticos de glicose, colesterol total, HDL-colesterol, triglicerídeos e ácido úrico em hamsters chineses alimentados por 45 dias com dieta regular ou dieta enriquecida com colesterol suplementada com extrato líquido obtido de resíduos de frutos de P. cauliflora padronizado em ácido elágico e compostos fenólicos totais. Os resultados mostraram que o extrato concentrado obtido dos resíduos de jabuticaba aumentou a glicemia dos animais alimentados com dieta regular e reduziu os níveis plasmáticos de ácido úrico dos animais alimentados com dieta rica em colesterol. Uma vez que a hiperuricemia é considerada um fator de risco significativo de distúrbios metabólicos e a principal base patológica da gota, o extrato líquido dos resíduos de frutas de P. cauliflora seria um candidato promissor como um novo agente hipouricêmico para investigação posterior.

Effects of liquid extract from Plinia cauliflora fruits residues on Chinese hamsters biochemical parameters

Abstract Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, popularly known as jabuticaba, is rich in polyphenols. Phenolic compounds exhibit several biological properties, which reflect on biomarkers such as biochemical parameters. In the present study, we evaluated the plasmatic levels of glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid of Chinese hamsters fed for 45 days with a regular diet or cholesterol-enriched diet supplemented with a liquid extract obtained from P. cauliflora fruits residues standardized in ellagic acid and total phenolic compounds. The results showed that the concentrated extract obtained from jabuticaba residues increased the glycemia of animals fed with a regular diet and reduced the plasmatic uric acid levels of animals fed with a cholesterol-enriched diet. Since hyperuricemia is considered to be a significant risk factor of metabolic disorders and the principal pathological basis of gout, the liquid extract from P. cauliflora fruits residues would be a promising candidate as a novel hypouricaemic agent for further investigation.

Resumo Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, popularmente conhecida como jabuticaba, é rica em polifenois. Os compostos fenólicos apresentam diversas propriedades biológicas, que refletem em biomarcadores, como os parâmetros bioquímicos. No presente estudo, avaliamos os níveis plasmáticos de glicose, colesterol total, HDL-colesterol, triglicerídeos e ácido úrico em hamsters chineses alimentados por 45 dias com dieta regular ou dieta enriquecida com colesterol suplementada com extrato líquido obtido de resíduos de frutos de P. cauliflora padronizado em ácido elágico e compostos fenólicos totais. Os resultados mostraram que o extrato concentrado obtido dos resíduos de jabuticaba aumentou a glicemia dos animais alimentados com dieta regular e reduziu os níveis plasmáticos de ácido úrico dos animais alimentados com dieta rica em colesterol. Uma vez que a hiperuricemia é considerada um fator de risco significativo de distúrbios metabólicos e a principal base patológica da gota, o extrato líquido dos resíduos de frutas de P. cauliflora seria um candidato promissor como um novo agente hipouricêmico para investigação posterior.

Mechanism of action involved in the anxiolytic-like effects of Hibalactone isolated from Hydrocotyle umbellata L.

Background and aim: Hibalactone (HB) is a lignan related to the anxiolytic-like effects of Hydrocotyle umbellata L. However, there is a need to understand better the mechanism of action of this lignan to support the ethnopharmacological uses of the species. This work aimed to evaluate by in vivo and in silico analysis the mechanism of action of HB involved in its anxiolytic-like effects. Experimental procedure: The effects of HB in mice were evaluated on light-dark box (LDB) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests. The participation of 5-HT1A receptor and the benzodiazepine site of GABAA receptor was evaluated to investigate the possible mechanism of action. In silico tools were used to better elucidate the anxiolytic-like effects of HB. Results: Oral treatment with HB at a dose of 33 mg/kg showed an anxiolytic-like effect in the LDB and EPM tests. Besides that, the treatment altered the ethological parameters, frequency of head dips, and stretched-attend postures (SAP), important to better describe the anxiolytic profile of HB. Pretreatment with flumazenil (2 mg/kg) reverted the anxiolytic-like effect of HB on LDB and EPM tests. On the other hand, pretreatment with NAN-190 (0.5 mg/kg) not reverted the activity observed. In silico predictions revealed the potential of HB to increase GABAergic neurotransmission. Pharmacophore modelling and docking simulations showed that HB might interact with the α1ß2γ2 GABAA receptor. Conclusion: Together, the results presented herein suggest that activation of the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor contributes to the anxiolytic-like effect of HB.

Phytochemical Composition and Protective Effect of Vernonanthura polyanthes Leaf against In Vivo Doxorubicin-Mediated Toxicity.

Vernonanthura polyanthes (Spreng.) A.J. Vega & Dematt. (syn.: Vernonia polyanthes Less) is popularly known as "assa-peixe" and its leaves are used in folk medicine mainly to treat respiratory diseases. In this study, we evaluated the cytogenotoxic and anticytogenotoxic potential of the V. polyanthes leaf aqueous extract (VpLAE) and its n-butanol fraction (n-BF) in the presence or absence of doxorubicin (DXR) (pre-, co-, and post-treatments) on a murine model for 24 h or 120 h. The micronucleus test (MN) and the comet assay were used to assess the cytogenotoxic and anticytogenotoxic potential of VpLAE and n-BF (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) administered via gavage to Swiss Webster mice. The chemical profiles of VpLAE and n-BF were assessed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, and their metabolites were putatively identified. Lastly, the possible biological activities related to the (anti) cytogenotoxicity of the compounds were predicted using the PASS online webserver. The in vivo results showed that different doses of VpLAE and n-BF did not present cytotoxic activity; however, the MN test revealed a slight mutagenic activity for the 24 h treatments. Moderate genotoxic effects were demonstrated for all treatments in the comet assay. Regarding anticytotoxicity and antimutagenicity, VpLAE and n-BF presented a high cytoprotective potential against DXR toxic effects. In the co-treatment, VpLAE reduced the DXR genotoxicity by ~27%, and n-BF did not demonstrate antigenotoxic potential. In contrast, an antigenotoxic effect was observed for both VpLAE and n-BF in the pre- and post-treatments, reducing DXR genotoxicity by ~41% and ~47%, respectively. Chemical analysis of VpLAE and n-BF showed the presence of eight phenolic compounds, including seven chlorogenic acids and a flavonoid. The PASS online tool predicted antimutagenic, anticancer, antineoplastic, chemoprotective, antioxidant, and radical scavenging activities for all constituents identified in VpLAE and n-BF. V. polyanthes leaves presented a protective effect against DXR cytogenotoxicity. In general, VpLAE and n-BF showed a greater antigenotoxic potential in the pre- and post-treatments. The metabolites putatively identified in VpLAE and n-BF exhibited antioxidant and chemoprotective potential according to computational prediction analysis. Altogether, our results highlight the potential application of V. polyanthes to protect against toxic manifestations induced by DXR.

Toxic Potential of Cerrado Plants on Different Organisms.

Cerrado has many compounds that have been used as biopesticides, herbicides, medicines, and others due to their highly toxic potential. Thus, this review aims to present information about the toxicity of Cerrado plants. For this purpose, a review was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, and Web Of Science databases. After applying exclusion criteria, 187 articles published in the last 20 years were selected and analyzed. Detailed information about the extract preparation, part of the plant used, dose/concentration tested, model system, and employed assay was provided for different toxic activities described in the literature, namely cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, insecticidal, antiparasitic, and molluscicidal activities. In addition, the steps to execute research on plant toxicity and the more common methods employed were discussed. This review synthesized and organized the available research on the toxic effects of Cerrado plants, which could contribute to the future design of new environmentally safe products.

Prevalence of obesity in patients with breast cancer followed-up at an oncology service in Goiania

To verify the prevalence of obesity in patients undergoing cancer follow-up at Hospital das Clínicas in Universidade Federal de Goiás, analyzing the epidemiological and laboratory profile. Methods: Retrospective, analytical and observational study. The final sample consisted of 498 medical records of patients under regular follow-up with indication for chemotherapy between June 2018 and 2020. Anthropometric data, gestational history, personal and family history, menopausal status, comorbidities, staging, and laboratory tests were observed. Results: A mean body mass index of 28.3 kg/m² was found among the patients, and 26.51% were obese. Mean age at diagnosis was 52.79 years, and 51.81% were in menopause. Also, 26.23% had a personal history of breast cancer, and 44.76% had family history. Regarding comorbidities, 51.15% had them, being the most frequent one systemic arterial hypertension, more prevalent in the obese group compared to the normal body mass index. Also, 11.96% of the patients were nulliparous. Regarding staging, most were in T2N0M0 at diagnosis. In laboratory tests, it was found that among patients with breast cancer who had information on lipid profile, low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol were above the reference limit. Conclusion: 57.63% were obese or overweight, demonstrating body mass index as a risk factor for breast cancer. It was observed that the group of patients with obesity had a statistically significant relationship with the presence of concomitant comorbidities; however, no statistically significant results were found regarding the relationship between body mass index and menopausal status.

Insights into the Bioprospecting of the Endophytic Fungi of the Medicinal Plant Palicourea rigida Kunth (Rubiaceae): Detailed Biological Activities.

A multitude of plants from the Brazilian savanna are known for their medicinal properties. Many plants contain endophytic fungi, which lead to the production of bioactive compounds by both the fungi and their hosts. This study investigated the bioprospecting of endophytic fungi recovered from the leaves of Palicourea rigida, a native medicinal plant of the Brazilian savanna. Four fungal taxa (Colletotrichum sp. SXS649, Pestalotiopsis sp. SXS650, the order Botryosphaeriales SXS651, and Diaporthe sp. SXS652) were recovered. The phenolic, flavonoid, extracellular degrading enzymes (amylase, cellulase, protease, and tannase) and antioxidant activity of these taxa were determined. Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity showed that the Botryosphaeriales SXS651 extract displays a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 23.20 mg mL-1 against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the Diaporthe sp. SXS652 extract exhibited an MIC of 27.00 mg mL-1 against Escherichia coli. The Colletotrichum sp. SXS649 isolate inhibited tumors in potato discs by 69% at a concentration of 9.70 mg mL-1. All isolates had potential bioremediation criteria against soil contaminated with soybean oil, as proved by a high percentage of germination of Lactuca sativa and a reduction in phytotoxicity. Furthermore, the taxa under investigation demonstrated antagonistic action to phytopathogenic fungi, namely, Aspergillus niger, Inonotus rickii, Pestalotiopsis mangiferae, and Coniophora puteana, with an inhibition range between 34.2% and 76.9%. The preliminary toxicity assessment showed that all isolates possessed an LC50 of less than 100 mg mL-1 to the microcrustacean Artemia salina. These results indicate that the endophytic fungi of the Brazilian savanna are promising candidates for biotechnological and industrial applications and, in agricultural applications, for the biological control of phytopathogenic fungi.

Effects of liquid extract from Plinia cauliflora fruits residues on Chinese hamsters biochemical parameters.

Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, popularly known as jabuticaba, is rich in polyphenols. Phenolic compounds exhibit several biological properties, which reflect on biomarkers such as biochemical parameters. In the present study, we evaluated the plasmatic levels of glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid of Chinese hamsters fed for 45 days with a regular diet or cholesterol-enriched diet supplemented with a liquid extract obtained from P. cauliflora fruits residues standardized in ellagic acid and total phenolic compounds. The results showed that the concentrated extract obtained from jabuticaba residues increased the glycemia of animals fed with a regular diet and reduced the plasmatic uric acid levels of animals fed with a cholesterol-enriched diet. Since hyperuricemia is considered to be a significant risk factor of metabolic disorders and the principal pathological basis of gout, the liquid extract from P. cauliflora fruits residues would be a promising candidate as a novel hypouricaemic agent for further investigation.

Evaluation of breastfeeding self-effectiveness and its associated factors in puerperal women assisted at a public health system in Brazil / Avaliação da autoeficácia para amamentação e seus fatores associados em puérperas assistidas no sistema público de saúde no Brasil

Abstract Objectives: evaluate breastfeeding self-efficacy and its associated factors in puerperal women assisted at a public health system in Brazil. Methods: it is a cross-sectional analytical study, with convenience sampling and two instruments: sociodemographic, personal and clinical, and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES-SF), applied to puerperal women in a puerperal outpatient clinic at two public maternity hospitals in Goiânia/GO, from September to November 2019. Inclusion criteria: mothers in puerperal period, age above 18 years, children born at term and on exclusive breastfeeding. Exclusion criteria: report depression and premature wean. Results: 128puerperal women were interviewed. The average age was 26.7 (± 5.9) years old. The levels of self-efficacy were high (95.3%) and no puerperal had a low level. The variables with statistical significance were: experience in breastfeeding (p= 0.0312), not having received information on breastfeeding during pregnancy (p=0.0292), did not receive other milk at the maternity (p=0.0380), did not feel pain while breastfeeding (p=0.0242), being able to breastfeed on demand (p=0.0124), presence of breast engorgement (p=0.0207), presenting protruding nipples (p=0.0427). Conclusions: clinical and personal aspects were identified as risk factors for early weaning. This can provide information for the training ofprofessionals and structuring the interventions in health services, with a view in preventing these risks.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar a autoeficácia da amamentação e seus fatores associados em puérperas atendidas no sistema público de saúde. Métodos: estudo transversal analítico, com amostragem por conveniência e dois instrumentos: sociodemográfico, pessoal e clínico, e Escala de Autoeficácia em Amamentação, aplicada a puérperas em um ambulatório de acompanhamento puerperal de duas maternidades públicas de Goiânia/GO, de setembro a novembro de 2019. Critérios de inclusão: mães no período puerperal, idade acima de 18 anos, filhos nascidos a termo e em aleitamento materno exclusivo. Critérios de exclusão: autorrelato de depressão e desmame prematuro. Resultados: foram entrevistadas 128 puérperas. A média de idade foi de 26,7 (± 5,9). Os níveis de autoeficácia foram altos (95,3%) e nenhuma puérpera obteve nível baixo. As variáveis com significância estatística foram: experiência em amamentar (p = 0,0312), não ter recebido informações sobre aleitamento materno durante a gravidez (p = 0,0292), não ter recebido outro leite na maternidade (p = 0,0380), não sentindo dor durante a amamentação (p = 0,0242), sendo amamentada sob demanda (p = 0,0124), presença de ingurgitamento mamário (p = 0,0207), apresentando mamilos salientes (p = 0,0427). Conclusões: foram identificados aspectos clínicos e pessoais como fatores de risco para o desmame precoce. Isso pode fornecer informações para a formação de profissionais e a estruturação de intervenções nos serviços de saúde, visando a prevenção desses riscos.

Perfil epidemiológico da sífilis adquirida em pacientes de um laboratório clínico universitário em Goiânia-GO, no período de 2017 a 2019 / Epidemiological profile of syphilis acquired in patients of a university clinical laboratory in Goiânia-GO from 2017 to 2019

Objetivo: A sífilis é uma doença infectocontagiosa, transmitida pela via sexual e verticalmente durante a gestação. Quando não tratada adequadamente, a doença pode permanecer no organismo por grandes períodos sem sintomas clínicos, pode evoluir atingindo múltiplos sistemas do organismo. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o perfil epidemiológico de usuários do Laboratório Clínico da PUC Goiás, com casos confirmados de sífilis adquirida, no período de 2017 a 2019. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa retrospectiva, a partir da análise dos resultados dos exames de VDRL e FTA-Abs no banco de dados eletrônico do laboratório. Resultados: Um total de 8.884 exames de rastreamento para sífilis adquirida foi solicitado neste período. Deste total, 11,1%, 17,2% e 10,9% apresentaram resultados reagentes no VDRL, respectivamente, nos anos de 2017, 2018 e 2019. Um percentual de 78,7% dos exames positivos para sífilis (VDRL) foi confirmado pelo teste treponêmico FTA-Abs (IgG). Em 2017, 32,45% dos exames foram reagentes para FTA-abs; 7,95% em 2018, e 9,3% em 2019. Os resultados desta pesquisa evidenciam uma maior prevalência de casos de sífilis adquirida em adultos jovens do sexo masculino (47,9%/2017; 72,9%/2018; 63,0%/2019) com baixa escolaridade. Conclusão: Nos últimos anos, a sífilis tem se tornado um grande problema de saúde pública, visto o seu aumento a cada ano, mesmo com tratamento simples e diagnóstico rápido. Medidas de controle, principalmente voltadas para o tratamento adequado do paciente e parceiro, uso de preservativo, informação à população devem ser fortalecidas pelos programas de saúde para controle da sífilis na população estudada.

Objective: Syphilis is an infectious disease, transmitted sexually and vertically during pregnancy. When not treated properly, the disease can remain in the organism for long periods without clinical symptoms, it can evolve reaching multiple systems. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of users of the Clinical Laboratory of PUC Goiás, with confirmed cases of acquired syphilis, in the period from 2017 to 2019. Methods: This is a retrospective research, based on the analysis of the results of the VDRL exams and FTA-Abs in the laboratory's electronic database. Results: A total of 8,884 screening tests for acquired syphilis were ordered during this period. Of this total, 11.1%, 17.2% and 10.9% had positive results in the VDRL, respectively, in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019. A percentage of 78.7% of the positive tests for syphilis (VDRL) were confirmed by the FTA-Abs (IgG) treponemic test. In 2017, 32.45% of the tests were reactive for FTA-abs; 7.95% in 2018, and 9.3% in 2019. The results of this research show a higher prevalence of cases of acquired syphilis in young male adults (47.9% / 2017; 72.9% / 2018; 63,0% / 2019) with low education. Conclusion: In recent years, syphilis has become a major public health problem, as it increases every year, even with simple treatment and rapid diagnosis. Control measures, mainly aimed at the adequate treatment of the patient and partner, use of condoms, information to the population must be strengthened by health programs for syphilis control in the studied population.

Avaliação da qualidade de vida em pacientes idosos antes e após a cirurgia de catarata / Quality of life assessment in elderly patients before and after cataract surgery

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes idosos antes e após de se submeterem à cirurgia de catarata. Métodos: Estudo longitudinal analítico com abordagem quantitativa. A coleta de dados se deu em duas etapas (antes da cirurgia de catarata e 2 meses após o procedimento), tendo sido aplicados dois questionários, sendo um sociodemográfico e o outro o World Health Organization Quality of Life OLD. Recorreu-se à estatística descritiva e aos testes estatísticos t de Student, análise de variância, de Mann-Whitney e de Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados: Participaram da pesquisa 34 idosos, sendo 15 (44,1%) até 69 anos de idade e 19 (55,9%) com mais de 69 anos. Identificou-se decréscimo nos escores do Funcionamento do Sensório nos idosos que não tinham atividade de lazer (p=0,0006), não praticavam atividade física (p=0,0023) e não utilizavam a internet (p=0,0010). No domínio Atividades Passadas, Presentes e Futuras, identificou-se aumento do escore nos idosos que não tinham atividade de lazer (p=0,0258), não praticavam atividade física (p=0,0303), afirmaram ter outros problemas de saúde (p=0,0372) e referiram ter boa saúde (p=0,0298). Já no domínio Participação Social, houve aumento do escore nos idosos que não tinham atividade de lazer (p=0,0068), não praticavam atividade física (p=0,0033) e afirmaram ter saúde regular (p=0,0102). Conclusão: Evidenciaram-se decréscimo no Funcionamento do Sensório e aumento nas Atividades Passadas, Presentes e Futuras e na Participação Social.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate quality of life of elderly patients before and after cataract surgery. Methods: A longitudinal analytical study with quantitative approach. Data collection was performed in two stages (before cataract surgery and 2 months after the procedure), when two questionnaires were used - a sociodemographic and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQLD). Descriptive statistics and Student's t test, analysis of variance, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were employed. Results: A total of 34 elderly individuals participated in the research, 15 (44.1%) aged up to 69 years and 19 (55.9%) over 69 years. A decrease in the Sensory Functioning scores was identified in those who had no leisure activity (p=0.0006), did not exercise (p=0.0023) and did not use the internet (p=0.0010). In the domain Past, Present and Future Activities, an increase in the score was observed in the elderly who had no leisure activity (p=0.0258), did not exercise (p=0.0303), reported having other health problems (p=0.0372), and in those who reported having good health status (p=0.0298). In the Social Participation domain, there was an increase in the score of the elderly who had no leisure activity (p=0.0068), did not exercise (p=0.0033), and of those who reported having regular health status (p=0.0102). Conclusion: There was a decrease in Sensory Functioning scores and an increase in the domains Past, Present and Future Activities, as well as Social Participation.

Associação entre Vaginose Bacteriana e Anormalidades Citológicas nos Exames Citopatológicos Analisados em um Laboratório Escola de Goiânia-GO / Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis and Cytological Abnormalities in Cytopathological Exams Analyzed in a Laboratory School of Goiânia-GO / Asociación entre Vaginosis Bacteriana y Anormalidades Citológicas en Exámenes Citopatológicos Analizados en una Escuela de Laboratorio de Goiânia-GO

Introdução: A Gardnerella vaginalis facilita a infecção pelo papilomavírus humano (HPV). Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre anormalidades citológicas e presença de Gardnerella vaginalis nos esfregaços cervicovaginais encaminhados ao Laboratório Clínico da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) estratificadas por faixa etária. Método: Estudo transversal realizado no LAC/PUC Goiás entre janeiro de 2013 a dezembro de 2015. Para análises estatísticas, a variável idade foi categorizada em ≤39 anos e >40 anos, utilizando o programa IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 2.0, 2011®) para o teste de qui-quadrado (X²), com intervalo de confiança de 95% e valor p<0,05. Resultados: Foram analisados 4.558 exames citopatológicos, a maioria com presença de Lactobacillus spp. (46,97%). A prevalência dos agentes patogênicos foi a Gardnerella vaginalis (79,6%), seguida de Candida spp. (16,8%), Trichomonas vaginalis (2,2%), Herpes simplex (0,4 %) e Chlamydia trachomatis (0,1%). As anormalidades citológicas foram observadas em 9,1%, sendo atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) 2,57%, low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) 1,78%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance cannot exclude high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) 3,52%, high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) 1,08%, atypical endocervical cells, favor neoplastic (AGC-NEO) 0,22% e carcinoma 0,02%. Houve uma associação significante entre anormalidades citológicas graves e mulheres ≥40 anos, OR 3,01 (IC 95% 2,0-4,58) (p<0,0001). Mulheres ≤40 anos mostraram significância à presença de Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0,0004). Conclusão: Uma elevada prevalência de Gardnerella vaginalis foi encontrada associada com as anormalidades citológicas, principalmente em mulheres sexualmente ativas.

Introduction:Gardnerella vaginalis facilitates human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Objective: To verify the association between cytological abnormalities and the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis in cervicovaginal smears sent to the Clinical Laboratory of the Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) stratified by age range. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out at LAC/PUC Goiás from January 2013 to December 2015. For statistical analysis, the variable age was categorized as ≤39 years and >40 years, using the IBM SPSS Statistics program (Version 2.0, 2011®) for the chi-square test (X²), with a 95% confidence interval and p<0.05. Results:4,558 cytopathological exams were analyzed, most of them with the presence of Lactobacillus spp (46.97%). The prevalence of pathogens was Gardnerella vaginalis (79.6%), followed by Candida spp. (16.8%), Trichomonas vaginalis (2.2%), Herpes simplex (0.4%) and Chlamydia trachomatis (0.1%). Cytological abnormalities were observed in 9.1%, being atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) 2.57%, low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) 1.78%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance cannot exclude high intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) 3.52%, high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) 1.08%, atypical endocervical cells, neoplastic favor (AGC-NEO) 0.22% and carcinoma 0.02%. There was a significant association between severe cytological abnormalities and women >40 years old OR 3.01 (95% CI 2.0-4.58) (p<0.0001). Women ≤40 years old showed the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0.0004). Conclusion:A high prevalence of Gardnerella vaginalis was found and its association with cytological abnormalities, especially in sexually active women.

Introducción:Gardnerella vaginalis facilita la infección por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH). Objetivo: Verificar la asociación entre anormalidades citológicas y la presencia de Gardnerella vaginalis en frotis cervicovaginales enviadas al Laboratorio Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) estratificadas por grupo de edad. Método: Estudio transversal realizado en LAC/PUC Goiás desde enero de 2013 hasta diciembre de 2015. Para el análisis estadístico, la edad variable se clasificó como ≤39 años y >40 años, utilizando el programa IBM SPSS Statistics (Versión 2.0, 2011®) para la prueba de chi-cuadrado (X²), con un intervalo de confianza del 95% y p <0,05. Resultados: Se analizaron 4.558 exámenes citopatológicos. La prevalencia de Lactobacillusspp. con 46,97%. Los patógenos como Gardnerella vaginalis fueron 79,6%, Candidaspp. 16,8%, Trichomonas vaginalis 2,2%, Herpes simplex 0,4%, y Chlamydia trachomatis 0,1%. Se observaron anormalidades citológicas en 9,1%, con células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado (ASC-US) 2,57%, lesión intraepitelial escamosa de bajo grado (LSIL) 1,78%, células escamosas atípicas de significación indeterminada no pueden excluir lesión intraepitelial (ASC-H) 3,52%, lesión intraepitelial escamosa de alto grado (HSIL) 1,08%, células endocervicales atípicas, favor neoplásico (AGC-NEO) 0,22% y carcinoma 0,02%. Hubo una asociación significativa entre anormalidades citológicas severas y mujeres >40 años OR 3,01 (IC 95% 2,0-4,58) (p<0,0001). Las mujeres ≤40 años mostraron la presencia de Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0,0004). Conclusión: Se encontró una alta prevalencia de Gardnerella vaginalis y su asociación con anomalías citológicas, especialmente en mujeres sexualmente activas.

Hancornia speciosa serum fraction latex stimulates the angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling processes.

The Hancornia speciosa latex reveals angiogenic, osteogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which present its potential for developing of wound healing drugs; however, the latex compounds responsible for angiogenesis remain unknown. One strategy to screen these active compounds is evaluation of latex fractions. This study aimed to obtain different fractions of latex and evaluate its angiogenic activity separately using the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. The serum (SE) fraction was responsible for angiogenesis, which was subject to biochemical characterization and computational simulations in order to understand the contribution of H. speciosa latex in wound healing process. Our results revealed weak antioxidant potential and absence of antimicrobial activity in the SE fraction. Phytochemical analysis identified chlorogenic acids (CGA) as the main compound of SE fraction. CGA bioactivity predictions identify different molecules associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, such as metalloproteinases, which also are overexpressed in our CAM assay experiment. Docking simulations revealed the interactions between CGA and matrix metalloproteinase 2. In conclusion, SE latex fraction stimulates angiogenesis and may influence ECM remodeling. These properties may contribute to the wound healing process, and also confirm the widespread use of this plant.

Avaliação da prevalência de dermatites de contato ocupacionais em profissionais de beleza atuantes em Goiânia, Goiás, Brasil

Objetivos ­ Avaliar a prevalência das dermatites de contato (DC) ocupacionais, destacando os principais tipos de cosméticos indutores, o conhecimento dos participantes sobre a doença, o seu diagnóstico e tratamento em uma amostra de 378 profissionais da beleza atuantes em Goiânia, Goiás. Métodos ­ Estudo transversal descritivo, prospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa. Resultados ­ Um total de 43,9% dos participantes deste estudo declararam apresentar DC após exposição a produtos cosméticos no trabalho. Cerca de 64,0% dos participantes desta pesquisa não demonstraram conhecimento satisfatório relacionado aos principais agentes causadores diretos das DC ocupacionais. As tinturas e descolorantes capilares, produtos para alisamentos capilares e produtos para maquilagem foram os cosméticos mais relacionados com o desenvolvimento das DC ocupacionais nestes profissionais. As regiões corporais dos profissionais mais afetadas pelas lesões das DC ocupacionais foram as mãos, o couro cabeludo e a face. A partir do diagnóstico da DC 25,8% dos profissionais tiveram que mudar de atividade laboral dentro do seu segmento de trabalho. Cerca de 28,8% dos profissionais apresentaram conhecimento insatisfatório sobre as principais medidas de prevenção das DC ocupacionais. Conclusão ­ A implementação ou aprimoramento de programas preventivos primários eficazes, pelos estabelecimentos e instituições formadoras destes profissionais é primordial para a redução da prevalência das dermatites ocupacionais. O conhecimento e a conscientização sobre fatores de risco individuais pela categoria é extremamente importante, especialmente nos aprendizes, que constituem um grupo-alvo para a execução de medidas de prevenção primária

Objectives ­ To evaluate the prevalence of occupational contact dermatites (CD), highlighting the main types of inductive cosmetics, the participants' knowledge about the disease, its diagnosis and treatment in a sample of 378 beauty professionals working in Goiania, Goias. Methods ­ Descriptive, prospective cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Results ­ A total of 43.9% of the participants in this study reported having CD after exposure to cosmetic products at work. About 64.0% of the participants of this research did not demonstrate satisfactory knowledge related to the main direct causative agents of occupational CD. Hairdye and bleaching agents for hair, hair straighteners and make-up products were the cosmetics most associated with occupational CD in these professionals. The body regions of the professionals most affected by occupational DC injuries were the hands, scalp and face. From the diagnosis of CD 25.8% of the professionals had to change their work activity within their work segment. About 28.8% of the professionals presented unsatisfactory knowledge about the main measures of prevention of occupational DC. Conclusion ­ The implementation or improvement of effective primary prevention programs by the institutions and training institutions of these professionals is necessary to reduce the prevalence of occupational dermatitis. Knowledge and awareness of individual risk factors by category is extremely important, especially for apprentices, who are a target group for the implementation of primary prevention measures

Antiangiogenic potential of Jatropha curcas latex in the chick chorioallantoic membrane model / Potencial antiangiogênico do látex de Jatropha curcas em modelo de membrana corioalantoica de embrião de galinha

AIMS: To perform a physicochemical and phytochemical characterization of Jatropha curcas latex and to investigate its antiangiogenic potential. METHODS: We performed an initial physicochemical characterization of J. curcas latex using thermal gravimetric analyses and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. After that, phenols, tannins and flavonoids were quantified. Finally, the potential of J. curcas latex to inhibit angiogenesis was evaluated using the chick chorioallantoic membrane model. Five groups of 20 fertilized chicken eggs each had the chorioallantoic membrane exposed to the following solutions: (1) water, negative control; (2) dexamethasone, angiogenesis inhibitor; (3) Regederm®, positive control; (4) 25% J. curcas latex diluted in water; (5) 50% J. curcas latex diluted in water; and (6) J. curcas crude latex. Analysis of the newly-formed vascular net was made through captured images and quantification of the number of pixels. Histological analyses were performed to evaluate the inflammation, neovascularization, and hyperemia parameters. The results were statically analyzed with a significance level set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Physicochemical characterization showed that J. curcas latex presented a low amount of cis-1.4-polyisoprene, which reduced its elasticity and thermal stability. Phytochemical analyses of J. curcas latex identified a substantial amount of phenols, tannins, and flavonoids (51.9%, 11.8%, and 0.07% respectively). Using a chick chorioallantoic membrane assay, we demonstrated the antiangiogenic potential of J. curcas latex. The latex induced a decrease in the vascularization of the membranes when compared with neutral and positive controls (water and Regederm®). However, when compared with the negative control (dexamethasone), higher J. curcas latex concentrations showed no significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: J. curcas latex showed low thermal stability, and consisted of phenols, tannins, and flavonoids, but little or no rubber. Moreover, this latex demonstrated a significant antiangiogenic activity on a chick chorioallantoic membrane model. The combination of antimutagenic, cytotoxic, antioxidant and antiangiogenic properties makes J. curcas latex a potential target for the development of new drugs.

OBJETIVOS: Realizar uma caracterização físico-química e fitoquímica do látex de Jatropha curcas e investigar o seu potencial antiangiogênico. MÉTODOS: foi realizada uma caracterização físico-química inicial do látex de J. curcas utilizando as análises termogravimétricas e a espectroscopia com a Transformada de Fourier. Depois disso, fenóis, taninos e flavonoides foram quantificados. Finalmente, o potencial do látex de J. curcas em inibir a angiogênese foi avaliado através do uso de modelo de membrana corioalantoica de embrião de galinha. Cinco grupos, cada um com 20 ovos de galinha fertilizados, tiveram a membrana corioalantoica exposta às seguintes soluções: (1) água, controle negativo; (2) dexametasona, inibidor da angiogênese; (3) Regederm®, controle positivo; (4) 25% de látex de J. curcas diluído em água; (5) 50% de látex de J. curcas diluído em água; e (6) látex bruto de J. curcas. A análise da rede vascular recém-formada foi feita por meio de imagens capturadas e quantificação do número de pixels. Análises histológicas foram realizadas para avaliar os parâmetros de inflamação, neovascularização e hiperemia. Os resultados foram analisados estaticamente com nível de significância estabelecido em p<0,05. RESULTADOS: A caracterização físico-química mostrou que o látex de J. curcas apresenta uma baixa quantidade de cis-1,4-poliisopreno, o que reduz sua elasticidade e estabilidade térmica. Análises fitoquímicas do látex de J. curcas identificaram uma quantidade significativa de fenóis, taninos e flavonoides (51,9%, 11,8% e 0,07% respectivamente). Usando o modelo de membrana corioalantoica de ovo de galinha embrionado, demonstrou-se o potencial antiangiogênico do látex de J. curcas. O látex induziu a diminuição da vascularização das membranas, em comparação aos grupos controle neutro e positivo (água e Regederm®). CONCLUSÕES: O látex de J. curcas apresentou baixa estabilidade térmica, ausência ou pouca quantidade de borracha e presença de fenóis, taninos e flavonoides em sua composição. Além disso, apresentou alta atividade antiangiogênica no modelo de membrana corioalantoica de embrião de galinha. A combinação de propriedades antimutagênicas, citotóxicas, anti-inflamatórias, antioxidantes e antiangiogênicas faz com que o látex de J. curcas seja um alvo potencial para o desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos.

Validation of a photostability indicating method for quantification of furanocoumarins from Brosimum gaudichaudii soft extract

ABSTRACT A validation study of a reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the quantification of two furanocoumarins (psoralen and bergapten) in soft extract obtained from Brosimum gaudichaudii Trécul, Moraceae, roots was conducted. The developed method was sensitive, rapid, reproducible, easy and precise, and showed linearity (r > 0.99) in the range of 10-64 µg/ml for psoralen, and 9-56 µg/ml for bergapten. It also showed a good efficiency for the photodegradation analysis of psoralen and bergapten in the soft extract. The photostability results showed that the Higuchi model presented the best fitting to the obtained data. Both chemical markers showed stability over 2.6 days, suggesting potential applications of the extract in obtaining intermediate products from this plant material. Furanocoumarins take around 30 min to be activated by UV light, reaching the maximum biological potential. Thus, the results obtained to the Higuchi model, corresponding to 2.6 days of stability, shows feasibility with future applications of these chemical markers.

Development and Validation of a HPLC-UV Method for the Evaluation of Ellagic Acid in Liquid Extracts of Eugenia uniflora L. (Myrtaceae) Leaves and Its Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Optimization.

A simple HPLC-UV method has been developed and validated for the quantification of ellagic acid (EA) in ethanol extracts of Eugenia uniflora L. (Myrtaceae) leaves. The ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) optimization was performed using a Box Behnken design (33) combined with response surface methodology to study the effects of the ethanol concentration (%, w/w), extraction time (minutes), and temperature (°C) on the EA concentration. The optimized results showed that the highest extraction yield of EA by UAE was 26.0 µg mL-1 when using 44% (w/w) ethanol as the solvent, 22 minutes as the extraction time, and 59°C as the extraction temperature. The concentration of EA in relation to the predicted value was 93.7% ± 0.4. UAE showed a strong potential for EA extraction.

Radical Scavenger Capacity of Jabuticaba Fruit (Myrciaria cauliflora) and Its Biological Effects in Hypertensive Rats.

Jabuticaba is an exotic fruit native to Brazil that has been arousing medicinal interest. Using chemical (HPLC-PDA, resonance mass spectra, and NMR), electroanalytical (differential pulse voltammetry, radical scavenging assay), and pharmacological (in vivo and in vitro) approaches, we have identified its bioactive compounds and hypotensive effects on hypertensive rats. The hydroalcoholic extract of jabuticaba (HEJ) presents a great quantity of phenolic compounds, and several molecules with hydroxyl groups present high efficiency as an antioxidant. The treatment with HEJ (100 and 300 mg/kg/day, for four weeks) presented hypotensive effects on L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats, possibly improving the nitric oxide bioavailability because of its high antioxidant potential. Furthermore, renal and cardiac hypertrophies were also attenuated after the HEJ treatment. Moreover, the vascular responses to contractile and dilating agonists were improved with the HEJ treatment, which is also able to induce nitric oxide production in endothelial cells.