Eating disorders during lockdown: the transcultural influence on eating and mood disturbances in Ibero-Brazilian population.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic has implied exceptional restrictive measures to contain its widespread, with adverse consequences on mental health, especially for those people with a background of mental illness, such as eating disorders (EDs). In this population, the influence of socio-cultural aspects on mental health has been still underexplored. Then, the main aim of this study was to assess changes in eating and general psychopathology in people with EDs during lockdown regarding the ED subtype, age, and provenance, and considering socio-cultural aspects (e.g., socioeconomical factors such as work and financial losses, social support, restrictive measures, or health accessibility, among others). METHODS: The clinical sample was composed of 264 female participants with EDs (74 anorexia nervosa (AN), 44 bulimia nervosa (BN), 81 binge eating disorder (BED), and 65 other specified feeding and eating disorder (OSFED)), with a mean age of 33.49 years old (SD = 12.54), from specialized ED units in Brazil, Portugal, and Spain. The participants were evaluated using the COVID-19 Isolation Eating Scale (CIES). RESULTS: A global impairment in mood symptoms and emotion regulation was reported in all the ED subtypes, groups of age, and countries. Spanish and Portuguese individuals seemed more resilient than Brazilian ones (p < .05), who reported a more adverse socio-cultural context (i.e., physical health, socio-familial, occupational, and economic status) (p < .001). A global trend to eating symptoms worsening during lockdown was observed, regardless of the ED subtype, group of age, and country, but without reaching statistical significance. However, the AN and BED groups described the highest worsening of the eating habits during lockdown. Moreover, individuals with BED significantly increased their weight and body mass index, similarly to BN, and in contrast to the AN and OSFED groups. Finally, we failed to find significant differences between groups of age although the younger group described a significant worsening of the eating symptoms during lockdown. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports a psychopathological impairment in patients with EDs during lockdown, being socio-cultural aspects potential modulatory factors. Individualized approaches to detect special vulnerable groups and long-term follow-ups are still needed.

Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antifungal activity of Lippia Thymoide essential oil in oral pathogens

Aim: This study evaluated the chemical composition of Lippia thymoides (Lt) essential oil and its antimicrobial activity against fungal strains of Candida albicans (Ca) and Gram-negative bacteria Prevotella intermedia (Pi) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn). Methods: Lt essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation apparatus with a modified Clevenger extension. The chemical analysis was analyzed by gas phase chromatography and mass spectrometry on Shimadzu QP 2010 plus. Sample sensitivity evaluation was performed by ABHb-inoculum and culture plates were developed with triphenyltetrazolium chloride, also Fn and Pi samples analysis were in anaerobic environment and Ca sample analysis was performed in aerobic environment. The minimum inhibitory concentration (CIM) was determinated by microdilution in eppendorfs tubes. Results: The chemical analysis showed that Thymol (59,91%) is the main compound found in Lt essential oil, also other antifungal and antimicrobial agents were present γ-terpinene (8.16%), p-cymene (7.29%) and ß-caryophyllene (4.49%), Thymol is a central ingredient of many medicinal plants and has a potent fungicidal, bactericidal and antioxidant activity, it has been previously shown to have anti-inflammatory activity against Periodontal Disease (PD) cause can reduces prostanoids, interleukins, leukotrienes levels in periodontium. CIM result Pi was 6.5 µg/mL, Fn was 1.5 µg/mL and Ca was 0.19 µg/mL. Conclusion: The antimicrobial activity of L. thymoides, through the compound Thymol, has been shown promising potential against gram-negative periodontopathogenic bacteria and fungi whose therapeutic arsenal is still very restricted

Case Report: Functional Analysis and Neuropsychological Evaluation of Dyshormonogenetic Fetal Goiter in Siblings Caused by Novel Compound Hyterozygous TPO Gene Mutations.

Introduction: It is rare for a euthyroid mother to carry a child with a fetal goiter. However, cases of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) caused by thyroid dyshormonogenesis have been reported. Even though gene mutations associated with fetal goiter have been reported in a few studies, the effects on intellectual development have not been investigated. This study aimed to characterize and investigate the underlying genetic mechanism of CH and neuropsychological development and growth of two siblings with CH-induced fetal goiters. Case report: Two male siblings from a non-consanguineous marriage with CH and fetal goiter were diagnosed by ultrasonography at 32- and 26-weeks of gestation. This condition was confirmed by cordocentesis in the first pregnancy (TSH: 135 µIU/ml). The mother was euthyroid, and no intra-amniotic levothyroxine treatment was performed. Peripheral blood DNA was screened for TPO mutations. The new deletion p.Cys296Alafs*21 and the p.Arg665Trp mutation, inherited from heterozygous parents, were identified in both patients. Functional analysis showed both mutations reduced the TPO enzyme activity and impaired the membrane localization. The p.Cys296Alafs*21 mutation produces a protein product with a drastically reduced molecular weight. Additionally, a complete clinical and neuropsychological evaluation was also performed. The WISC IV test was employed to provide an overall measure of the siblings' cognitive and intellectual abilities. No growth retardation was detected in either child. In general, both children showed normal neuropsychological development; however, they exhibited slight reduction of Processing Speed Index scores, which are sensitive to neurological and attentional factors and motor maturation activity. Notably, the younger sibling obtained significantly low scores in the Operational Memory Index, a measure of attention capacity and psychoneurological immaturity. Conclusion: We described a new TPO compound heterozygosity that severely impaired the TPO activity and membrane localization leading to severe CH and fetal goiter. This is the first report showing the neuropsychological evaluation in patients with dyshormonogenetic fetal goiter. More studies are needed to understand the neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates with CH-induced fetal goiters.

Severe Necrotizing Periodontitis in an HIV-Infected Patient: Case Report and Non-Surgical Treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing periodontitis (NP) is an atypical and painful form of periodontal disease, it is described by a promptly progress of ulceration and destruction of periodontal tissues; the NP is commonly linked to HIV-positive patients. The aim of this report is to present a rare case of severe necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis treated non-surgically. CASE PRESENTATION: A 28-year-old dark skin female patient was referred to a dentistry college with the main complaint of spontaneous gingival bleeding and enlargement, oral pain during deglutition and dental hypersensitivity. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed generalized severe periodontal destruction, extensive bleeding, increased biofilm presence and spontaneous suppuration. Medical exams were requested, red and white blood cells were evaluated and among those exams an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for HIV-1 antibodies, the result reveled reagent to HIV-1. The diagnosis of NP was assigned based on periodontal parameters such as necrosis and ulceration of the coronal portion of interdental papillae and gingival margin. Treatment established was scaling and root planning plus antibiotics. At 3 months of treatment the clinical and periodontal condition were stable. CONCLUSION: This case report highlights a severe and generalized form of NP, where periodontal non-surgical associated with antimicrobials resulted in elimination of the gingival enlargement, necrosis and ulceration of the coronal portion of interdental papillae and significant improvement of periodontal parameters.

Intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries is affected by pubertal maturation in healthy adolescents / Espessura médio-intimal das artérias carótidas é relacionada à maturação puberal em adolescentes saudáveis

ABSTRACT Objective: To contribute to the assessment of normal parameters of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in healthy adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through clinical, laboratory and ultrasound evaluation in 61 healthy adolescents. The inclusion criteria consisted of being in good health. The exclusion criteria were: presence or history of any chronic disease; being obese or overweight according to the World Health Organization (WHO) established criterion; continuous use of medication; or presenting a febrile condition or requiring medication within 48-hours prior to assessment. The pubertal stages were evaluated using the Tanner criteria. The high-resolution B-mode ultrasound examinations were performed according to the recommendations of the Consensus Statement from the American Society of Echocardiography Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Task Force. Results: Adolescents were 14±2.6 years old, 62.3% female, 19 (31%) at early puberty (Tanner II and III), and 38 (62%) at late puberty (Tanner IV and V). They presented normal clinical and laboratorial parameters. CIMT values were 0.46±0.04 to 0.55±0.04 mm on the right and 0.48±0.02 to 0.53±0.04 mm on the left, according to pubertal maturation. CIMT values increased significantly on the right and left sides, according to pubertal stage (p<0.001 and p=0.016), and maximum internal diameters of the common carotid artery (p<0.025 and p<0.003). It was higher in males compared to females. Conclusions: An increase in CIMT in the healthy adolescents group, according to both age, and the degree of pubertal maturation should be considered when evaluating adolescents in diagnostic procedures.

RESUMO Objetivo: Contribuir para a avaliação dos parâmetros normais da espessura médio-intimal carotídea (EMIC) em adolescentes saudáveis. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado por meio de avaliações clínicas, laboratoriais e ultrassonográficas em 61 adolescentes saudáveis. O critério de inclusão foi ter boa saúde. Os critérios de exclusão foram: presença ou histórico de doença crônica; obesidade ou sobrepeso segundo os parâmetros estabelecidos pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS); uso contínuo de medicação; e quadro febril ou que necessitasse de uso de medicação nas 48 horas anteriores à avaliação. Os estágios puberais foram avaliados pela escala de Tanner. As ultrassonografias em modo B de alta resolução foram realizadas seguindo as recomendações do Consensus Statement from the American Society of Echocardiography Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Task Force (Declaração de Consenso da Força Tarefa da Sociedade Americana de Ecocardiografia sobre Espessura Médio-Intimal Carotídea). Resultados: Os adolescentes tinham 14±2,6 anos, 62,3% eram do sexo feminino, 19 (31%) estavam em estágios iniciais da puberdade (2 e 3) e 38 (62%) em estágios avançados (4 e 5) de acordo com a escala de Tanner. Todos apresentavam parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais normais. Os valores da EMIC variaram de 0,46±0,04 a 0,55±0,04 mm do lado direito e 0,48±0,02 a 0,53±0,04 mm do lado esquerdo, conforme a maturação puberal. Houve aumento significativo nos valores da EMIC em ambos os lados de acordo com o estágio puberal (p<0,001 e p=0,016) e os diâmetros internos máximos da artéria carótida comum (p<0,025 e p<0,003). A EMIC foi maior em participantes do sexo masculino em relação ao feminino. Conclusões: O aumento da EMIC em adolescentes saudáveis, conforme a idade e o grau de maturação puberal, deve ser levado em consideração nas avaliações diagnósticas.

Avaliação da expressão gênica da endotelina em idosos / Evaluation of endothelin gene expression in the elderly

INTRODUÇÃO: O processo de senescência do coração e de suas valvas vem sendo correlacionado com a ação do subtipo 1 de endotelina (ET-1) e de seus receptores (ETrA e ETrB). A produção de ET-1 é dependente de cálcio extracelular; estando associada à resposta inflamatória encontrada no envelhecimento, quando ocorre substituição fibrosa e calcificação nas valvas mitral e aórtica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar se há expressão gênica da endotelina-1 no processo de envelhecimento valvar. RESULTADOS: As concentrações médias de ácido nucléico (RNA total) e de cDNA foram respectivamente de 27,21±30,26 ng/ul e de 609,4±80,60ng/ul. Os valores médios de absorbância em 260 e 280nm foram respectivamente de 0,67±0,74 UA (A260) e de 0,33±0,36 UA (A280). Já a proporção A260/A280 foi de 1,91±0,20. Das sete amostras coletadas, observou-se a expressão de ET-1 em todas elas, sendo que, quantitativamente, a expressão gênica média relativa para ET-1 foi de 62,85±25,63%. CONCLUSÃO: A ET-1 está relacionada à vasoconstricção e a processos inflamatórios presentes na senescência valvar, portanto, sua expressão já era esperada, confirmando-se assim, o seu envolvimento na homeostase cardiovascular. (AU)

Endotelinas: marcador de risco cardiovascular em adultos com deficiência isolada de GH / Endothelin: cardiovascular risk marker in adults with isolated GH deficiency

INTRODUÇÃO: Na cidade de Itabaianinha/SE, existe um grupo de 105 indivíduos afetados pela deficiência isolada de GH (DIGH) devido a uma mutação do gene do receptor do GH (GHRH). Estudos prévios em pacientes com deficiência de GH adquirida em fase adulta demonstraram aumento da morbimortalidade cardiovascular. Todavia, a literatura afirma que pacientes com níveis séricos elevados de Endotelinas (ETs) apresentam Risco Cardiovascular (RCV) aumentado devido à disfunção endotelial decorrente da aterosclerose. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os níveis séricos de ETs em adultos portadores de DIGH e sua correlação com RCV. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo descritivo e prospectivo tipo caso-controle. Um total de 34 pacientes, sendo 20 portadores de DIGH oriundos da cidade de Itabaianinha-SE e 14 indivíduos hígidos residentes na cidade de Aracaju/SE que compuseram o controle, foram submetidos à dosagem de ETs séricas por meio de teste Elisa. A análise estatística foi realizada através de medidas de tendência central e variância e as comparações entre os grupos, através do teste Qui quadrado(X²). O nível de significância estatística foi menor que 5% (p < 0,05). RESULTADOS: O grupo controle foi composto por sete homens (50%) e sete mulheres(50%) com idade média de 42,2 ± 19,9 anos; enquanto que a amostra de anões foi composta por 11 homens (55%) e nove mulheres (45%) com idade média de 46 ±15,5 anos. Os valores médios de ETs séricas nos controles foram de 70,78 ± 39,02 pg/ml e nos pacientes com DIGH foi de 25,15 ± 6,40 pg/ml (p=0,0003; IC:92%). CONCLUSÕES: Conclui-se que os níveis de ETs em pacientes com DIGH mostraram-se inferiores aos controles, portanto, infere-se que os portadores de DIGH têm RCV menor que pacientes hígidos. Porém são necessários novos estudos para corroborar tal afirmação. (AU)

Papel das endotelinas no envelhecimento / Role of endothelin in aging

INTRODUÇÃO: As endotelinas (ETs) são uma família formada por três isopeptídeos endógenos (ET-1, ET-2, ET-3) e dois receptores, ETrA e ETrB, os quais possuem ações opostas: enquanto ETrA leva à vasoconstricção e aumento do inotropismo, o ETrB leva à vasodilatação através da liberação de Óxido nítrico e prostaciclinas. A ET é dependente de cálcio extracelular, e está associada à resposta inflamatória encontrada no envelhecimento, quando ocorre substituição fibrosa e calcificação nas valvas mitral e aórtica. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o papel das Endotelinas como marcadores do envelhecimento de valvas cardíacas. Delineamento/MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo experimental e randomizado. Foram coletadas dez valvas mitrais de indivíduos do Instituto Médico Legal (IML) de Aracaju-SE que foram a óbito por morte violenta; a amostra foi composta de oito valvas de indivíduos idosos e duas valvas de jovens, sendo todos do sexo masculino. Inicialmente, foram feitas análise em cortes histológicos corados em Hematoxilina e Eosina (HE) e em seguida, análise Imunohistoquímica (IHQ). Após coloração em HE foi realizada fixação em solução de formalina neutra a 10%, submetidas à descalcificação, embebidas em parafina e cortadas em micrótomo, com espessura de 4 µm. A coloração da IHQ foi obtida através da utilização de anticorpos policlonais para ETrA e ETrB com diluição 1:100. Posteriormente, foi feito cruzamento entre a evidência de Ca2+ nos cortes histológicos corados em HE e a análise quantitativa da área expressa pela IHQ de cada receptor em relação à área total de cada lâmina através da utilização do Software Image J®... (AU)

INTIMA-MEDIA THICKNESS OF THE CAROTID ARTERIES IS AFFECTED BY PUBERTAL MATURATION IN HEALTHY ADOLESCENTS.

OBJECTIVE: To contribute to the assessment of normal parameters of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in healthy adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted through clinical, laboratory and ultrasound evaluation in 61 healthy adolescents. The inclusion criteria consisted of being in good health. The exclusion criteria were: presence or history of any chronic disease; being obese or overweight according to the World Health Organization (WHO) established criterion; continuous use of medication; or presenting a febrile condition or requiring medication within 48-hours prior to assessment. The pubertal stages were evaluated using the Tanner criteria. The high-resolution B-mode ultrasound examinations were performed according to the recommendations of the Consensus Statement from the American Society of Echocardiography Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Task Force. RESULTS: Adolescents were 14±2.6 years old, 62.3% female, 19 (31%) at early puberty (Tanner II and III), and 38 (62%) at late puberty (Tanner IV and V). They presented normal clinical and laboratorial parameters. CIMT values were 0.46±0.04 to 0.55±0.04 mm on the right and 0.48±0.02 to 0.53±0.04 mm on the left, according to pubertal maturation. CIMT values increased significantly on the right and left sides, according to pubertal stage (p<0.001 and p=0.016), and maximum internal diameters of the common carotid artery (p<0.025 and p<0.003). It was higher in males compared to females. CONCLUSIONS: An increase in CIMT in the healthy adolescents group, according to both age, and the degree of pubertal maturation should be considered when evaluating adolescents in diagnostic procedures.

Assessment and clinical relevance of the dynamic parameters of ventricular repolarization in patients with grade I left ventricular diastolic dysfunction 1.

Imbalance in ventricular repolarization parameters are related to increased risk of severe arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. There is limited research regarding markers to detect patients at risk in this early stage. We aimed to assess the influence of grade I left ventricular diastolic dysfunction on repolarization parameters in asymptomatic patients. Ambulatory patients with grade I left ventricular diastolic dysfunction were studied and compared with a control group. We assessed the QT dispersion circadian variation, heart rate variability in the time and frequency domains, and dynamics of QT using a 12-lead Holter. In the diastolic dysfunction group, 8 (30%) patients had QT dispersion > 80 ms. One (3.8%) patient presented premature ventricular complex > 10/h. The comparison between the 2 groups showed that the difference between the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals and low frequency power in both groups was statistically significant. We therefore conclude that increased parameters of ventricular repolarization and depressed heart rate variability reflect an imbalance in autonomic responses in patients with grade I left ventricular diastolic dysfunction without cardiovascular symptoms, enabling the identification of patients that are at a higher risk for cardiovascular events.

Analysis of IL-10 in HIV-1 patients with chronic periodontitis in northern Brazil

The objective of this study was to investigate the levels of IL-10 in the gingival crevicular fluid in HIV-1 positive patients with chronic periodontitis and to compare with HIV-1 negative patients with chronic periodontitis, also to correlate clinical periodontal parameters, viral load and count of CD4 + and CD8 + lymphocytes (LTCD4 + and LTCD8 +). Methods: 33 patients were selected and splitted into two groups: 16 HIV-1 positive patients and 17 HIV-1 negative patients and all with chronic periodontitis. The clinical periodontal parameters recorded were: Probing Depth (PD) and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL); the sistemical parameters LTCD4 +, LTCD8 + and viral load were analized by the gingival crevicular fluid collected from all patients. Enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the concentrations of Interleukin (IL)-10. For the statistical analysis the Student t, Mann-Whitney and Spearman tests were performed. IL-10 levels were significantly lower in both patients groups. Results: There was statistical difference betwen groups for probing depth (p=0.015) and clinical attachment level (p=0.011), no significant correlation was found among the analyzed variables. Conclusion: The IL-10 levels in HIV-1 positive patients had no influence in periodontal and medical parameters (AU)

Cardiovascular risk factors and increased carotid intima-media thickness in young patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

OBJECTIVE: Increased arterial intima-media thickness has been observed in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD). CAH has also been associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. The aim of the present study was to compare youths with CAH with healthy, normal-weight individuals, evaluating carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and indicative factors of cardiovascular risk to seek for abnormalities in the CAH group. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonographic evaluations, according to published criteria, were performed in 113 subjects (5 to 20 years old): 40 patients with 21-OHD and 73 healthy individuals matched for gender, pubertal status, and age. RESULTS: Most CAH patients were female (80%), salt-losers (72.5%), and pubescent (80%); 10 (25%) patients were overweight. An increase in CIMT was observed both on the right (p = 0.0240) and left (p = 0.0003) sides in 38 CAH patients compared with the healthy individuals. The body mass index, BMI/age Z score, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were higher in patients compared with controls (p < 0.000 and p = 0.0219, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Findings of increased CIMT, BMI, and SBP in young patients with 21-OHD indicate the need for early identification and intervention regarding cardiovascular risk. Validating these findings might result in improved therapeutic approaches for children with 21-OHD in the future.

Cardiovascular risk factors and increased carotid intima-media thickness in young patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency

ABSTRACT Objective Increased arterial intima-media thickness has been observed in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD). CAH has also been associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. The aim of the present study was to compare youths with CAH with healthy, normal-weight individuals, evaluating carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and indicative factors of cardiovascular risk to seek for abnormalities in the CAH group. Subjects and methods Clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonographic evaluations, according to published criteria, were performed in 113 subjects (5 to 20 years old): 40 patients with 21-OHD and 73 healthy individuals matched for gender, pubertal status, and age. Results Most CAH patients were female (80%), salt-losers (72.5%), and pubescent (80%); 10 (25%) patients were overweight. An increase in CIMT was observed both on the right (p = 0.0240) and left (p = 0.0003) sides in 38 CAH patients compared with the healthy individuals. The body mass index, BMI/age Z score, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were higher in patients compared with controls (p < 0.000 and p = 0.0219, respectively). Conclusions Findings of increased CIMT, BMI, and SBP in young patients with 21-OHD indicate the need for early identification and intervention regarding cardiovascular risk. Validating these findings might result in improved therapeutic approaches for children with 21-OHD in the future. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(6):541-7.

Management of exogenous intoxication by carbamates and organophosphates at an emergency unit.

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate and indicate the procedure to be followed in the health unit, both for diagnosis and the treatment of acute exogenous intoxications by carbamates or organophosphates. METHODS: a descriptive study based on retrospective analysis of the clinical history of patients diagnosed with intoxication by carbamates or organophosphates admitted at the emergency unit of the Hospital de Urgências de Sergipe Governador João Alves (HUSE) between January and December of 2012. Some criteria were evaluated, such as: intoxicating agent; patient's age and gender; place of event, cause, circumstances and severity of the intoxication; as well as signs and symptoms of the muscarinic, nicotinic and neurological effects. RESULTS: seventy patients (average age: 25 ± 19.97) formed the study's population. It was observed that 77.14% of them suffered carbamate intoxication. However, organophosphate intoxications were more severe, with 68.75% of patients presenting moderate to severe forms. Suicide attempt was the leading cause of poisoning, with 62 cases (88.57% of total). Atropine administration was an effective therapeutic approach for treating signs and symptoms, which included sialorrhea (p = 0.0006), nausea (p = 0. 0029) and emesis (p < 0.0001). The use of activated charcoal was shown effective, both in combating the signs and symptoms presented by both patient groups (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: it is concluded that the use of atropine and activated charcoal is highly effective to treat the signs and symptoms developed by patients presenting acute exogenous intoxication by carbamates or organophosphates.

Management of exogenous intoxication by carbamates and organophosphates at an emergency unit / Manejo de intoxicação exógena por carbamatos e organofosforados em uma unidade de emergência

Summary Objectives: to evaluate and indicate the procedure to be followed in the health unit, both for diagnosis and the treatment of acute exogenous intoxications by carbamates or organophosphates. Methods: a descriptive study based on retrospective analysis of the clinical history of patients diagnosed with intoxication by carbamates or organophosphates admitted at the emergency unit of the Hospital de Urgências de Sergipe Governador João Alves (HUSE) between January and December of 2012. Some criteria were evaluated, such as: intoxicating agent; patient's age and gender; place of event, cause, circumstances and severity of the intoxication; as well as signs and symptoms of the muscarinic, nicotinic and neurological effects. Results: seventy patients (average age: 25±19.97) formed the study's population. It was observed that 77.14% of them suffered carbamate intoxication. However, organophosphate intoxications were more severe, with 68.75% of patients presenting moderate to severe forms. Suicide attempt was the leading cause of poisoning, with 62 cases (88.57% of total). Atropine administration was an effective therapeutic approach for treating signs and symptoms, which included sialorrhea (p=0.0006), nausea (p=0. 0029) and emesis (p lt0.0001). The use of activated charcoal was shown effective, both in combating the signs and symptoms presented by both patient groups (p <0.0001). Conclusion: it is concluded that the use of atropine and activated charcoal is highly effective to treat the signs and symptoms developed by patients presenting acute exogenous intoxication by carbamates or organophosphates.

Resumo Objetivo: avaliar e indicar os procedimentos a serem seguidos na unidade de saúde tanto para o diagnóstico como para o tratamento de intoxicações agudas exógenas por carbamatos ou organofosforados. Métodos: estudo descritivo baseado na análise retrospectiva da história clínica de pacientes diagnosticados com intoxicação por carbamatos ou organofosforados admitidos em uma unidade de emergência, entre janeiro e dezembro de 2012. Foram avaliados alguns critérios, como: agente intoxicador; idade do paciente e gênero; causa de envolvimento, circunstâncias e gravidade da intoxicação; sinais e sintomas dos efeitos neurológicos muscarínicos e nicotínicos. Resultados: setenta pacientes (idade média: 25±19,97 anos) formaram a população de estudo. Foi observado que 77,14% deles sofreram intoxicação por carbamatos. Os casos mais graves foram intoxicados por organofosforados, com 68,75% dos pacientes apresentando formas moderadas a graves. Tentativa de suicídio foi a causa principal de envenenamento, com 62 casos (88,57% do total). A administração de atropina foi uma medida terapêutica efetiva para tratamento de sinais e sintomas, como sialorreia (p=0,0006), náusea (p=0,0029) e êmese (p<0,0001). O uso do carvão ativado mostrou efetividade para o combate dos sinais e sintomas apresentados por pacientes em geral (p<0,0001). Conclusão: o uso de atropina e de carvão ativado é uma medida terapêutica altamente efetiva para combater os sinais e sintomas apresentados por pacientes vítimas de intoxicação aguda exógena por carbamatos ou organofosforados.

Evaluation of cytokines produced by β-hemolytic streptococcus in acute pharyngotonsillitis / Avaliação das citosinas produzidas por estreptococos β-hemolíticos em faringotonsilites agudas

INTRODUCTION: The most common pathogen in bacterial pharyngotonsillitis is group A β-hemolytic streptococcus, although groups B, C, F,and G have also been associated with pharyngotonsillitis.OBJECTIVE: To assess the levels of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6,IL-4, and IL-10 in bacterial pharyngotonsillitis caused by group A and non-A (groups B, C, F and G) β-hemolytic streptococcus.METHODS: The study was conducted at a pediatric emergency care unit. The sample comprised children (5-9 years old) with acute bacterial pharyngotonsillitis diagnosed between December of 2011 and May of 2012. The research involved collection of blood samples from the patients, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detection of TNF-α, IL-6,IL-4, and IL-10, and collection of two oropharyngeal swabs for bacterial isolation. Additionally, the medical history of the study participants was also collected.RESULTS: In the studied group (mean age: 5.93 years), higher pharyngotonsillitis incidence was observed in the female gender (64.76%). Higher incidence of tonsillar exudates was observed with groups A and C. No statistically significant differences in cytokine levels were observed among groups. However, the group A and the control group showed a difference in the IL-6 level (p = 0.0016).CONCLUSIONS: The Groups A and C showed higher cytokine levels than the Groups B and control, suggesting similar immunological patterns.

INTRODUÇÃO: O patógeno mais comumente associado à faringotonsilite bacteriana é o estreptococo β-hemolítico do grupo A, a despeito dos grupos B, C, F e G terem também sido associados com a faringotonsilite.OBJETIVO: Determinar os níveis das citosinas TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4, e IL-10 na faringotonsilite bacteriana causada pelos estreptococos β-hemolíticos do grupo A e não-A (grupos B, C, F e G).MÉTODO: O estudo foi conduzido em uma emergência pediátrica. A amostra estudada compreendeu crianças (entre 5 e 9 anos) com faringotonsilite aguda bacteriana diagnosticada entre dezembro de 2011 e maio de 2012. A pesquisa envolveu a coleta de amostras sanguíneas dos pacientes, a detecção, através do ELISA, de TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4, and IL-10, além da coleta de dois swabs orofaríngeos para isolamento bacteriano. Adicionalmente foi coletada a história médica dos participantes do estudo.RESULTADOS: No grupo estudado (idade média: 5,93 anos), a maior incidência de faringotonsilite foi observada no gênero feminino (64,76%). Foram detectadas maiores incidências de exsudatos tonsilares nos grupos A e C. Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significantes dos níveis de citosinas entre os grupos. Porém os grupos A e o controle mostraram diferença nos níveis de IL-6 (p = 0.0016).CONCLUSÕES: Os grupos A e C mostraram maiores níveis de citosinas que os grupos B e o controle, sugerindo mecanismos imunológicos similares.

Evaluation of cytokines produced by ß-hemolytic streptococcus in acute pharyngotonsillitis.

INTRODUCTION: The most common pathogen in bacteria lpharyngotonsillitis is group A ß-hemolytic streptococcus, although groups B, C, F,and G have also been associated with pharyngotonsillitis. OBJECTIVE: To assess the levels of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6,IL-4, and IL-10 in bacterial pharyngotonsillitis caused by group A and non-A (groups B, C, F and G) ß-hemolytic streptococcus. METHODS: The study was conducted at a pediatric emergency care unit. The sample comprised children (5-9 years old) with acute bacterial pharyngotonsillitis diagnosed between December of 2011 and May of 2012. The research involved collection of blood samples from the patients, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detection of TNF-α, IL-6,IL-4, and IL-10, and collection of two oropharyngeal swabs for bacterial isolation. Additionally, the medical history of the study participants was also collected. RESULTS: In the studied group (mean age: 5.93 years), higher pharyngotonsillitis incidence was observed in the female gender (64.76%). Higher incidence of tonsillar exudates was observed with groups A and C. No statistically significant differences in cytokine levels were observed among groups. However, the group A and the control group showed a difference in the IL-6 level (p=0.0016). CONCLUSIONS: The Groups A and C showed higher cytokine levels than the Groups B and control, suggesting similar immunological patterns.

Analysis of immunostaining and western blotting of endothelin 1 and its receptors in mitral stenosis.

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatic Fever represents a serious public health problem in developing countries, with thousands of new cases each year. It is an autoimmune disease, which occurs in response to infection by streptococcus A. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunolabeling and protein expression for endothelin-1 and 3 (ET-1, ET-3) and its receptors (ETA, ETB) in rheumatic mitral valves. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry was used to identify ET-1/ET-3 and ETA/ETB receptors in rheumatic and control mitral valves. Quantitative analysis of immunostaining for ET-1/ET-3 and ETA/ETB receptors was performed. In addition, western blot analysis was carried out to assess protein levels in tissue samples. RESULTS: ET-1 and ETA receptor immunostaining predominated in stenotic valves, mainly associated with fibrotic regions, inflammatory areas and neovascularization. Quantitative analysis showed that the average area with positive expression of ET-1 was 18.21 ± 14.96%. For ETA and ETB, the mean expressed areas were respectively 15.06 ± 13.13% and 9.20 ± 11.09%. ET-3 did not have a significant expression. The correlation between the expression of both endothelin receptors were strongly positive (R = 0.74, P = 0.02), but the correlation between ET-1 and its receptor were negative for both ETA (R = -0.37, P = 0.25), and ETB (R = -0.14, P = 0.39). This data was supported by western blot analysis. CONCLUSION: The strong correlation between ET-1 and its receptors suggests that both play a role in the pathophysiology of rheumatic mitral valve stenosis and may potentially act as biomarkers of this disease.