Treatment of lower limb telangiectasias with Nd: Yag 1064 nm laser with and without tumescent anesthesia - TTL technique.

INTRODUCTION: Transdermal laser is an option for varicous veins treatment, yet it may be painful. In this study, we will present a technique for performing tumescent anesthesia associated to transdermal laser (TTL) to reduce pain during treatment. OBJECTIVE: The study compares pain during treatment of telangiectasias in lower limb with and without tumescent anesthesia to offer a less painful procedure. METHODS: 50 CEAP C1 patients with bilateral telangiectasias on thighs underwent transdermal laser treatment, using tumescent anesthesia on one side and standard technique on the other. Pain was assessed via the Visual Analogue Scale. The outcomes were compared with Student's t-test. Significance was set at p < .05. RESULTS: Laser treatment without tumescent anesthesia resulted in a VAS pain score of 7.9, versus 0.0 with anesthesia, showing a significant statistical difference. CONCLUSION: Tumescent anesthesia and transdermal laser (TTL) is capable of reducing pain in laser treatment of telangiectasias and reticular veins.

Complications of central venous catheterization at a vascular surgery service in a teaching hospital: a prospective cohort study.

Background: Central venous catheters are essential for management of hospitalized patients, but their insertion is subject to complications that can make them unusable and/or cause patient morbidity. There are few data on the incidence of these complications and the variables associated with these outcomes in Brazil. Objectives: To determine the incidence of mechanical complications and failures of short stay central venous catheters fitted by the vascular surgery service at a teaching hospital and identify variables associated with their occurrence. Methods: This was a prospective cohort of 73 attempts to fit patients with a central venous catheter performed by the vascular surgery service at a teaching hospital from July to October of 2022. Results: Mechanical complications occurred in 12 cannulation attempts (16.44%) and there were 10 failures (13.70%). The factors associated with mechanical complications were less experienced operators (p < 0.001), less specialized operators (p = 0.014), a failed attempt prior to requesting help from the vascular surgery service (p = 0.008), and presence of at least two criteria for difficulty (p = 0.007). Conclusions: The local incidence of mechanical complications and central venous cannulation failures was similar to rates described in the international literature, but higher than rates in other Brazilian studies. The results suggest that the degree of experience of the person fitting the catheter, history of a failed prior attempt, and presence of at least two criteria for difficulty identified before the procedure were associated with worse outcomes.

Private school canteens: an analysis of the economic and financial aspects of the traditional and the healthy models.

BACKGROUND: One of the reasons for the more prominent resistance of canteen managers to implementing healthy canteens is based on the belief in the economic infeasibility of these models. The research aimed to verify the economic and financial viability of traditional and healthy models of school canteens in a Brazilian metropolis. METHODS: The case study was carried out with 36 companies in the school canteen sector in a Brazilian metropolis. The classification of items sold in canteens considered the extent and purpose of food processing according to the NOVA Classification. The characterization and definition of traditional canteens and healthy canteens were proposed considering the amount of in natura or minimally processed foods and culinary preparations without the presence of ultra-processed foods; the percentage of ultra-processed foods or processed foods or culinary preparations with the presence of ultra-processed foods; and the existence of prohibited foods. The economic and financial analysis was carried out mainly through the evaluation of profitability. Data were collected through an electronic self-administered questionnaire sent to canteen managers. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare medians and the Chi-Square/Fisher's Exact Test to compare proportions. RESULTS: The study included six companies, responsible for 36 canteen units in private schools, 30 classified in the traditional model (83.3%), and six in the healthy model (16.7%). The median percentage of natural, minimally processed foods and commercialized culinary preparations was higher among the healthy model canteens (87.9% vs. 60.0%, p < 0.001). While the median percentage of ultra-processed, processed, or preparations with the presence of ultra-processed (40.0% vs. 12.1%, p < 0.001) and prohibited foods (10.0% vs. 0%, p < 0.001) sold was higher in the traditional model canteens. The results indicated that the profitability in the healthy canteens was higher (p < 0.001) than in the traditional ones. CONCLUSIONS: Healthy school canteens showed better financial and economic results compared to traditional canteens with emphasis on greater profitability and a shorter recovery time of the initial investment.

Bacteria, yeasts, and fungi associated with larval food of Brazilian native stingless bees.

Stingless bees are a diverse group with a relevant role in pollinating native species. Its diet is rich in carbohydrates and proteins, by collecting pollen and nectar supplies the development of its offspring. Fermentation of these products is associated with microorganisms in the colony. However, the composition of microorganisms that comprise this microbiome and its fundamental role in colony development is still unclear. To characterize the colonizing microorganisms of larval food in the brood cells of stingless bees Frieseomelitta varia, Melipona quadrifasciata, Melipona scutellaris, and Tetragonisca angustula, we have utilized molecular and culture-based techniques. Bacteria of the phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and fungi of the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Mucoromycota, and Mortierellomycota were found. Diversity analysis showed that F. varia had a greater diversity of bacteria in its microbiota, and T. angustula had a greater diversity of fungi. The isolation technique allowed the identification of 189 bacteria and 75 fungi. In summary, this research showed bacteria and fungi associated with the species F. varia, M. quadrifasciata, M. scutellaris, and T. angustula, which may play an essential role in the survival of these organisms. Besides that, a biobank with bacteria and fungus isolates from LF of Brazilian stingless bees was created, which can be used for different studies and the prospection of biotechnology compounds.

Model-Informed drug development of gastroretentive release systems for sildenafil citrate.

Gastroretentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) are modified-release dosage forms designed to prolong their residence time in the upper gastrointestinal tract, where some drugs are preferentially absorbed, and increase the drug bioavailability. This work aimed the development of a novel GRDDS containing 60 mg of sildenafil citrate, and the evaluation of the feasibility of the proposed formulation for use in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), for once a day administration, by using in silico pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling and simulations using GastroPlusTM. The Model-Informed Drug Development (MIDD) approach was used in formulation design and pharmacokinetic exposure prospecting. A 22 factorial design with a central point was used for optimization of the formulation, which was produced by direct compression and characterized by some tests, including buoyancy test, assay, impurities, and in vitro dissolution. A compartmental PK model was built using the GatroPlusTM software for virtual bioequivalence of the proposed formulations in comparison with the defined target release profile provided by an immediate release (IR) tablet formulation containing 20 mg of sildenafil administered three times a day (TID). The results of the factorial design showed a direct correlation between the dissolution rate and the amount of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) in the formulations. By comparing the PK parameters predicted by the virtual bioequivalence, the formulations F1, F2, F3 and F5 failed on bioequivalence. The F4 showed bioequivalence to the reference and was considered the viable formulation to substitute the IR. Thus, GRDDS could be a promising alternative for controlling the release of drugs with a pH-dependent solubility and narrow absorption window, specifically in the gastric environment, and an interesting way to reduce dose frequency and increase the drug bioavailability. The MIDD approach increases the level of information about the pharmaceutical product and guide the drug development for more assertive ways.

Strategic analysis of the sheep milk production chain in Brazil: an approach using the SWOT methodology / Análise estratégica da cadeia produtiva de leite ovino no Brasil: uma abordagem pela metodologia SWOT

Sheep milk is used on a global scale for the production of cheese and other derivatives, or fresh consumption. The production of milk and its derivatives, whether formal or informal, is part of a production chain, with a lower or higher level of organization depending on the regional development of the activity. The objective of this study was to describe and discuss the elements of the sheep milk production chain in Brazil using the SWOT methodology. This study was developed in 2017 based on direct research with agents linked to the sheep milk production sector of 15 properties distributed in seven states of Brazil. The agents pointed out and described the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the segments of inputs, production, processing, and sale and distribution of products and, subsequently, these elements were organized in a SWOT matrix. In the production segment, the low adoption of adequate production techniques, data control, and knowledge of production costs are critical factors. In the processing segment, positive aspects were pointed out for the physicochemical characteristics of sheep milk, while aspects related to legislation were considered critical. The lack of culture and consumer knowledge about sheep milk products are critical points affecting the sale and distribution segment. The small scale of production, the low demand for milk and its derivatives, and the lack of specific inputs for the activity are also critical points in the production chain. However, the use of inputs from other livestock activities (mainly dairy cattle) is an important option to reduce production costs and optimize the use of resources in dairy sheep farming. Appropriate production and processing techniques for sheep milk and data and production cost control must be implemented. Despite the heterogeneity of the studied production systems, some have positive economic indicators, which demonstrate the productive and economic potential of the activity. In this scenario, intensive production aimed at products with higher added value and the growth of the consumer market are factors that stimulate the growth of dairy sheep farming and are considered opportunities, so that marketing campaigns to promote the consumption of dairy products must be carried out. The small volume of milk produced generates opportunities for the sector, due to the lack of competition and the large potential market to be explored, especially in large centers, with greater purchasing power.(AU)

O leite ovino é utilizado em escala global para a produção de queijos e outros derivados, ou para consumo in natura. A produção de leite e de seus derivados, seja formal ou informal, faz parte de uma cadeia produtiva, com menor ou maior grau de organização dependendo do desenvolvimento regional da atividade. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever e discutir os elementos da cadeia produtiva de leite ovino no Brasil utilizando a metodologia SWOT. Este estudo foi desenvolvido em 2017 a partir de pesquisa direta com agentes ligados ao setor produtivo de leite ovino de 15 propriedades distribuídas em sete Estados do Brasil. Os agentes apontaram e descreveram os pontos fortes e fracos, as oportunidades e ameaças dos segmentos de insumos, produção, processamento, e venda e distribuição de produtos e, posteriormente, esses elementos foram organizados em uma matriz SWOT. No segmento produção, a baixa adoção de técnicas adequadas de produção, controle de dados e conhecimento dos custos de produção são fatores críticos. No segmento processamento, aspectos positivos foram apontados para as características físico-químicas do leite ovino, enquanto aspectos relacionados com a legislação foram considerados pontos críticos. A falta de cultura e conhecimento do consumidor sobre os produtos derivados do leite ovino são pontos críticos que afetam o segmento de venda e distribuição. A pequena escala de produção e a baixa demanda pelo leite e seus derivados, assim como a falta de insumos específicos para a atividade, também são pontos críticos da cadeia produtiva. Entretanto, o uso de insumos de outras atividades pecuárias (principalmente da bovinocultura leiteira) é uma opção importante para reduzir os custos de produção e otimizar o uso dos recursos na ovinocultura leiteira. Técnicas adequadas de produção e de processamento do leite ovino devem ser implementadas, assim como o controle de dados e de custos da produção. Apesar dos sistemas de produção estudados serem heterogêneos, alguns apresentam indicadores econômicos positivos, o que demonstra o potencial produtivo e econômico da atividade. Nesse cenário, a produção intensiva de produtos com maior valor agregado e o crescimento do mercado consumidor são fatores que estimulam o crescimento da ovinocultura leiteira, e são considerados oportunidades, de modo que campanhas de marketing para promover o consumo de derivados do leite devem ser realizadas. O pequeno volume de leite produzido gera oportunidades ao setor pela falta de concorrência e pelo grande mercado potencial a ser explorado, especialmente nos grandes centros, com maior poder aquisitivo.(AU)

Complicações de acessos venosos centrais em um serviço de cirurgia vascular de um hospital de ensino: uma coorte prospectiva / Complications of central venous catheterization at a vascular surgery service in a teaching hospital: a prospective cohort study

Resumo Contexto Os acessos venosos centrais são essenciais no manejo de pacientes hospitalizados; contudo, a sua inserção está sujeita a complicações que podem dificultar seu uso e causar morbidade aos pacientes. No Brasil, dados acerca da incidência dessas complicações e das variáveis associadas com esse desfecho são escassos. Objetivos Determinar a incidência de complicações mecânicas e de falhas de acessos venosos centrais de curta permanência realizados no serviço de Cirurgia Vascular de um hospital de ensino, além de identificar as variáveis associadas com a sua ocorrência. Métodos Tratou-se de uma coorte prospectiva com 73 tentativas de acesso venoso central realizadas em pacientes assistidos pelo serviço de Cirurgia Vascular de um hospital de ensino entre julho e outubro de 2022. Resultados Complicações mecânicas ocorreram em 12 tentativas de acessos (16,44%), e falhas, em 10 tentativas (13,70%). Os fatores associados às complicações mecânicas foram menor experiência do operador (p < 0,001), menor grau de especialização do operador (p = 0,014), falha na tentativa de acesso precedente à solicitação de auxílio ao serviço de Cirurgia Vascular (p = 0,008) e presença de pelo menos dois critérios de dificuldade (p = 0,007). Conclusões A incidência local de complicações mecânicas e de falhas dos acessos venosos centrais foi semelhante à descrita na literatura internacional, mas foi superior à descrita em trabalhos brasileiros. Os resultados sugerem que o grau de experiência do executor do acesso, a história de falha em tentativa precedente e a presença de pelo menos dois critérios de dificuldade verificados antes do procedimento estão associados com piores desfechos.

Abstract Background Central venous catheters are essential for management of hospitalized patients, but their insertion is subject to complications that can make them unusable and/or cause patient morbidity. There are few data on the incidence of these complications and the variables associated with these outcomes in Brazil. Objectives To determine the incidence of mechanical complications and failures of short stay central venous catheters fitted by the vascular surgery service at a teaching hospital and identify variables associated with their occurrence. Methods This was a prospective cohort of 73 attempts to fit patients with a central venous catheter performed by the vascular surgery service at a teaching hospital from July to October of 2022. Results Mechanical complications occurred in 12 cannulation attempts (16.44%) and there were 10 failures (13.70%). The factors associated with mechanical complications were less experienced operators (p < 0.001), less specialized operators (p = 0.014), a failed attempt prior to requesting help from the vascular surgery service (p = 0.008), and presence of at least two criteria for difficulty (p = 0.007). Conclusions The local incidence of mechanical complications and central venous cannulation failures was similar to rates described in the international literature, but higher than rates in other Brazilian studies. The results suggest that the degree of experience of the person fitting the catheter, history of a failed prior attempt, and presence of at least two criteria for difficulty identified before the procedure were associated with worse outcomes.

Differential gene expression by RNA-seq during Alzheimer's disease-like progression in the Drosophila melanogaster model.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive, irreversible loss of memory and cognitive function. Drosophila melanogaster and other animal models are used to study several diseases, in order to elucidate unknown mechanisms and develop potential therapies. Molecular studies require biological samples and, for neuropathologies such as AD biopsy of the human brain, are invasive and potentially damaging. The solution is to use animal models, such as D. melanogaster, which is a model organism that can replace mammalian organisms in such studies. In this study, we evaluated the climbing ability and differential gene expression during AD progression due to the amylodoigenic pathway using RNA-seq, and we performed an in silico analysis of a fruit fly AD-like GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) model with GFP expression in the pan-neural elav driver. A total of 1388 genes were differentially expressed in all analyzed groups. The main pathways related to those Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) during aging and AD progression were evaluated using the fly genes and human orthologs, in order to link genomic information to higher-order functional information with gene pathway mapping. We identified pathways present in all analyzed groups, such as metabolic pathways, ribosomal pathways, proteasome pathways and immune system pathways. Some of the genes were validated by qPCR. Knockdown of CG17754 gene by RNAi promoted degeneration in the fly eye, validating these findings in vivo. The identification of similarities in molecular pathways between the transgenic fly AD-like GFP model and mammals related to AD provides new insights into the use of this fly in screening novel anti-AD drugs.

Hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype and associated factors in individuals with arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus.

Cardiovascular diseases are among the main causes of death in Brazil and worldwide. The literature indicates the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype (HTWP) as an accessible alternative for the identification of cardiovascular and metabolic risk. The present study aimed to identify the prevalence and factors associated with HTWP in individuals diagnosed with arterial hypertension (AH) and/or diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2). A cross-sectional study was conducted with individuals diagnosed with AH and/or DM2. The study data were collected through semi-structured interviews containing socio-demographic information, lifestyle, health care, in addition to anthropometric assessment, blood pressure measurement and biochemical blood tests. The prevalence of HTWP was estimated and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the factors associated with HTWP. Of the 788 individuals analysed, 21⋅5 % had the HTWP. In the adjusted model, the following variables remained associated with a greater chance of presenting HTWP: sex, age, body mass index (BMI) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Being female increased the chance of HTWP by 7⋅7 times (OR 7⋅7; 95 % CI 3⋅9, 15⋅2). The one-year increase in age increased the chance of HTWP by 4 % (OR 1⋅04; 95 % CI 1⋅02, 1⋅06). The addition of 1 mg/dl of VLDL-c increased the chance of HTWP by 15 % (odds ratio (OR) 1⋅15; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1⋅12, 1⋅18), as well as the increase of 1 kg/m2 in the BMI increased the chance of this condition by 20 % (OR 1⋅20; 95 % CI 1⋅15, 1⋅27). The prevalence of HTWP was associated with females, older age, higher BMI, higher VLDL-c and risk waist/height ratio.

Low-grade albuminuria in adult and elderly individuals with diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension accompanied by Primary Health Care.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and arterial hypertension (AH) are the two main clinical conditions related to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD); disease also identify by the levels of low-grade albuminuria (LGA). Few studies have simultaneously investigated the associations of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) with LGA. Our study aimed to investigate and compare the association of HbA1c and FPG with the probability of LGA in adult and elderly individuals with DM and AH, within the scope of Primary Health Care (PHC). Cross-sectional study involving 737 Brazilians individuals previously diagnosed with hypertension and/or diabetes. Tests for HbA1c, FPG and LGA were performed. LGA was defined as the highest quartile of albumin urinary (≥ 13 mg/g) among individuals with urinary LGA < 30 mg / g. A significant increase in the prevalence of LGA was found with increasing levels of HbA1c (p < 0.001). There was a significant association of HbA1c with LGA (p < 0.001) and increased probability of LGA for participants with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% compared to those with Hba1c < 5.7% (OR [95% CI]: 2.43 [1.32-4.46], p < 0.05), after adjusting for confounding factors, except when adjusted for FPG (p = 0.379 and p = 0.359, respectively). HbA1c and FPG were significantly associated in a collinear manner with an increased probability of LGA in adult and elderly individuals with DM and AH.

Kefir metabolites in a fly model for Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia among elderly individuals worldwide, leading to a strong motor-cognitive decline and consequent emotional distress and codependence. It is traditionally characterized by amyloidogenic pathway formation of senile plaques, and recent studies indicate that dysbiosis is also an important factor in AD's pathology. To overcome dysbiosis, probiotics-as kefir-have shown to be a great therapeutic alternative for Alzheimer's disease. In this present work, we explored kefir as a probiotic and a metabolite source as a modulator of microbiome and amyloidogenic pathway, using a Drosophila melanogaster model for AD (AD-like flies). Kefir microbiota composition was determined through 16S rRNA sequencing, and the metabolome of each fraction (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol) was investigated. After treatment, flies had their survival, climbing ability, and vacuolar lesions accessed. Kefir and fraction treated flies improved their climbing ability survival rate and neurodegeneration index. In conclusion, we show that kefir in natura, as well as its fractions may be promising therapeutic source against AD, modulating amyloidogenic related pathways.

10-hydroxy-2E-decenoic acid (10HDA) does not promote caste differentiation in Melipona scutellaris stingless bees.

In bees from genus Melipona, differential feeding is not enough to fully explain female polyphenism. In these bees, there is a hypothesis that in addition to the environmental component (food), a genetic component is also involved in caste differentiation. This mechanism has not yet been fully elucidated and may involve epigenetic and metabolic regulation. Here, we verified that the genes encoding histone deacetylases HDAC1 and HDAC4 and histone acetyltransferase KAT2A were expressed at all stages of Melipona scutellaris, with fluctuations between developmental stages and castes. In larvae, the HDAC genes showed the same profile of Juvenile Hormone titers-previous reported-whereas the HAT gene exhibited the opposite profile. We also investigated the larvae and larval food metabolomes, but we did not identify the putative queen-fate inducing compounds, geraniol and 10-hydroxy-2E-decenoic acid (10HDA). Finally, we demonstrated that the histone deacetylase inhibitor 10HDA-the major lipid component of royal jelly and hence a putative regulator of honeybee caste differentiation-was unable to promote differentiation in queens in Melipona scutellaris. Our results suggest that epigenetic and hormonal regulations may act synergistically to drive caste differentiation in Melipona and that 10HDA is not a caste-differentiation factor in Melipona scutellaris.

Survival and analysis of predictors of mortality in patients undergoing replacement renal therapy: a 20-year cohort.

BACKGROUND: optimal management of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in hemodialysis (HD) patients should be more studied because it is a serious risk factor for mortality, being considered an unquestionable global priority. METHODS: we performed a retrospective cohort study from the Nephrology Service in Brazil evaluating the survival of patients with ESRD in HD during 20 years. Kaplan-Meier method with the Log-Rank and Cox's proportional hazards model explored the association between survival time and demographic factors, quality of treatment and laboratory values. RESULTS: Data from 422 patients were included. The mean survival time was 6.79 ± 0.37. The overall survival rates at first year was 82,3%. The survival time correlated significantly with clinical prognostic factors. Prognostic analyses with the Cox proportional hazards regression model and Kaplan-Meier survival curves further identified that leukocyte count (HR = 2.665, 95% CI: 1.39-5.12), serum iron (HR = 8.396, 95% CI: 2.02-34.96), serum calcium (HR = 4.102, 95% CI: 1.35-12.46) and serum protein (HR = 4.630, 95% CI: 2.07-10.34) as an independent risk factor for the prognosis of survival time, while patients with chronic obstructive pyelonephritis (HR = 0.085, 95% CI: 0.01-0.74), high ferritin values (HR = 0.392, 95% CI: 0.19-0.80), serum phosphorus (HR = 0.290, 95% CI: 0.19-0.61) and serum albumin (HR = 0.230, 95% CI: 0.10-0.54) were less risk to die. CONCLUSION: survival remains low in the early years of ESRD treatment. The present study identified that elevated values of ferritin, serum calcium, phosphorus, albumin, leukocyte, serum protein and serum iron values as a useful prognostic factor for the survival time.

Dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, biochemistry profile and their associations with chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus.

The chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are considered a serious public health problem. The objective was investigating the association of DM with the anthropometric measures, biochemical profile and dietary intake in patients with CKD. Is a cross-sectional study done in 2017, with 51 patients previously diagnosed with CKD. We collect socio-demographic, lifestyle variables, anthropometric measurements, biochemical profile and dietary intake. We using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, followed by Pearson's χ2 test and Student's t test. Data were analysed using several multivariable logistic regression models, including the socio-demographic, anthropometric, dietary intake and biochemical variable. Variables with P ≤ 0⋅20 in the univariate analyses were selected and kept in the block in the simple and multiple logistic regression analysis, to determine the differences between the categories and the factors associated with the presence of DM or not, remaining in the model final, only the significant variables (P ≤ 0⋅05). Each variable was adjusted for all other variables included in the univariate analysis. The strength of the association was assessed by the odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The multivariate logistic regression analysis evidenced that the increase of 1 cm in waist circumference and 1 mg/dl in VLDL-c values increases the chance of DM, respectively, by 8⋅4% (OR 1⋅076; P 0⋅05) and 8⋅8% (OR 1⋅102; P 0⋅01). In contrast, an increase of 1 mg/dl in total cholesterol decreases the chance of developing DM by 3⋅1% (OR 0⋅965; P 0⋅01), that is, it becomes a protective factor. The present study identified the associations between overweight, dietary intake and biochemical tests.

Management Strategies for Lamb Production on Pasture-Based Systems in Subtropical Regions: A Review.

Sheep production on pasture plays an important role in subtropical climates around the world, with great economic and environmental relevance to those regions. However, this production is much lower than its true potential in subtropical regions, largely due to lack of knowledge of how to feed grazing lambs, and mitigate gastrointestinal parasite infections. Due to weather instability and the high growth rate of tropical grasses, it is difficult to adjust the quality and quantity of feed consumed by lambs. In addition, due to warm, wet weather during spring, summer, and autumn, gastrointestinal parasite infection can be intense on subtropical pastures. Thus, the objective of this paper is to summarize 17 years of research in southern regions of Brazil testing alternative management for sheep farmers under these challenging conditions. Our review indicates that ewes play important roles raising their lambs. Besides protecting and providing milk, they leave a better pasture structure for lamb nutrition. The use of creep feeding and creep grazing are additional alternatives to improve lamb growth. However, feeding supplementation with concentrate can deteriorate pasture quality at the end of the summer-autumn season. Gastrointestinal parasitic infections can be reduced with improved lamb nutrition, although L3 larvae of Haemonchus contortus can be present at various pasture heights. This indicates that it is difficult to control L3 ingestion solely by manipulating grazing heights. We summarize important technologies for raising lambs on pasture-based systems to make the best of high herbage growth and minimize intense parasitic infections common in subtropical regions. We discuss research results in light of the latest studies from other ecoregions and climates, although there is a lack of similar research in subtropical regions of the world.

Individual and Combined Components of Metabolic Syndrome with Chronic Kidney Disease in Individuals with Hypertension and/or Diabetes Mellitus Accompanied by Primary Health Care.

PURPOSE: To identify the associations between MetS and its components and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a population with arterial hypertension (AH), or diabetes mellitus (DM) accompanied by the Primary Health Care (PHC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 788 individuals diagnosed with AH and/or DM followed by PHC of Viçosa, Brazil. Anthropometric, biochemical and clinical measures were performed for the diagnosis of MetS and CKD. MetS was identified using the NCEP-ATPIII criteria. CKD was identified by estimating the glomerular filtration rate using the CKD-EPI equation. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the chances of CKD associated with MetS and its components and specific combinations of components. RESULTS: The prevalence of MetS reported in the population was 65.4%, that of hidden CKD was 15.4%. The prevalence of CKD among participants with MetS was 75.2%. The most prevalent component of MetS in the population was AH (96.7%). Elevated fasting blood glucose, central obesity, and reduced HDL-c were significantly associated with an increased chance of CKD (OR = 2.80, 95% CI 1.76-4.45, OR = 1.68, 95% CI, 05-2.71, OR = 1.61, CI 95% 1.03-2.50, respectively). For the multivariate adjustment, the participants with MetS were 2 times more likely to have CKD than those without MetS (OR = 2.07; 95% CI, 1.25-3.44). The combination of three components of MetS high blood pressure, abdominal obesity and elevated fasting blood glucose and the combination of four components of MetS high blood pressure, reduced HDL-c, high fasting blood glucose and abdominal obesity were associated with increased odds of CKD (OR = 2.67, CI 95% 1.70-4.20, OR = 2.50, CI 95% 1.55-4.02, respectively). CONCLUSION: MetS, as well as its individual or combined components were independently associated with CKD in the population with AH and/or DM accompanied by PHC.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in Brazilians with arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus.

The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in individuals with arterial hypertension (AH) and/or diabetes mellitus (DM) accompanied by Primary Health Care (PHC) in Brazil. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on creatinine, and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) were measured in 841 subjects with AH and/or DM, followed by PHC in the city of Viçosa. The CKD was diagnosed according to KDIGO criteria. Sociodemographic, clinical, and anthropometric factors related to the prevalence of CKD were investigated through multiple logistic regression. The prevalence of hidden CKD was 15.4%. Of these, 7.5% were identified by albuminuria (ACR ≥30 mg/g) with slightly decreased eGFR. Age, baseline disease, waist circumference (WC), and systolic blood pressure remained associated with CKD after multivariate analysis. The two major risk factors for hidden CKD were the presence of AH in association with DM and an increase in age. Hidden CKD was more common within people with AH and DM, and with high WC, glycosylated hemoglobin, and serum phosphorus as well as male gender and decreased serum albumin. This knowledge of risk associations can help avoid progression to CKD.

In vivo biometry and carcass characteristics of lambs in different finishing systems / Biometria in vivo e características de carcaça de cordeiros em diferentes sistemas de terminação

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different finishing systems on the in vivo measurements, quantitative and qualitative carcass characteristics, commercial cut ratio, and shoulder tissue composition of lambs. Thirty-two male lambs were distributed in four finishing systems with eight replications each, as follows: suckling lambs on pasture; suckling lambs in confinement, with access to creep-feeding containing corn bran and soybean meal; weaned lambs fed roughage, characterized by ad libitum supply of alfalfa hay; and weaned lambs fed concentrate, composed of oat grain and soybeanmeal. The lambs were slaughtered as they reached the pre-set live weight at slaughtering of 30 kg. Most of the in vivo biometry variables were not significant (P > 0.05) when comparing the finishing systems, except for hindlimb height and thoracic perimeter. Regarding the quantitative carcass characteristics, all variables differed (P < 0.05) between systems, except for carcass length, leg width, and subcutaneous fat thickness. For the qualitative carcass characteristics, only the fatness and carcass conformation presented significant differences (P < 0.05). Most in vivo measurements and the proportion of carcass cuts were not influenced by finishing systems. Weaned lambs fed an exclusive concentrate diet presented leaner carcasses with an inferior conformation when compared to the other finishing systems. Suckling lambs in confinement presented shoulders with a higher fat deposition when compared to those weaned. Suckling lambs both on pasture and in confinement presented a superiority in the quantitative carcass characteristics when compared to weaned lambs.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a influência dos diferentes sistemas de terminação sobre as mensurações in vivo, as características quantitativas e qualitativas da carcaça, a proporção dos cortes comerciais e a composição tecidual da paleta de cordeiros. Foram utilizados 32 cordeiros machos, distribuídos em quatro sistemas de terminação com oito repetições cada, conforme a seguir: cordeiros lactentes em pastagem; cordeiros lactentes em confinamento, com acesso ao creep-feeding contendo farelo de milho e soja; cordeiros desmamados com volumoso, caracterizado pelo fornecimento ad libitum de feno de alfafa; e cordeiros desmamados com concentrado, composto por grão de aveia e farelo de soja. Os cordeiros foram abatidos à medida que atingiram o peso vivo de abate pré-estabelecido de30 kg. A maioria das variáveis de biometria in vivo não foram significativas (P > 0,05) entre os sistemas de terminação, com exceção da altura do posterior e do perímetro torácico. Quanto às características quantitativas da carcaça, todas a variáveis foram diferentes (P < 0,05) entre os sistemas, exceto o comprimento de carcaça, a largura de perna e a espessura de gordura subcutânea. Para as características qualitativas da carcaça, apenas o estado de engorduramento e a conformação apresentaram diferenças significativas (P < 0,05). A maioria das mensurações in vivo e as proporções dos cortes da carcaça não sofreram influência dos sistemas de terminação. Os cordeiros desmamados com dieta exclusiva de concentrado, apresentaram carcaças magras com conformação inferior aos demais sistemas determinação. Os cordeiros lactentes em confinamento apresentaram paletas com maior deposição de gordura do que os desmamados. Tanto cordeiros lactentes em pastagem, quanto em confinamento, apresentaram superioridade nas características quantitativas da carcaça em relação aos cordeiros desmamados.(AU)

Brain-enriched MicroRNA-184 is downregulated in older adults with major depressive disorder: A translational study.

Changes in microRNAs (miRNAs) expression have been described in major depressive disorder in young and middle-aged adults. However, no study has evaluated miRNA expression in older adults with major depression (or late-life depression [LLD]). Our primary aim was to evaluate the expression of miRNAs in subjects with LLD. We first evaluated the miRNA expression using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and then we validated the miRNAs found in NGS in an independent sample of LLD patients, using RT-qPCR. Drosophila melanogaster model was used to evaluate the impact of changes in miRNA expression on behavior. NGS analysis showed that hsa-miR-184 (log2foldchange = -4.21, p = 1.2 × 10-03) and hsa-miR-1-3p (log2foldchange = -3.45, p = 1.3 × 10-02) were significantly downregulated in LLD compared to the control group. RT-qPCR validated the downregulation of hsa-miR-184 (p < 0.001), but not for the hsa-miR-1-3p. The knockout flies of the ortholog of hsa-miR-184 showed significantly reduced locomotor activity at 21-24 d.p.e (p = 0.04) and worse memory retention at 21-24 d.p.e (24h post-stimulus, p = 0.02) compared to control flies. Our results demonstrated that subjects with LLD have significant downregulation of hsa-miR-184. Moreover, the knockout of hsa-miR-184 in flies lead to depressive-like behaviors, being more pronounce in older flies.

In vivo biometry and carcass characteristics of lambs in different finishing systems / Biometria in vivo e características de carcaça de cordeiros em diferentes sistemas de terminação

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different finishing systems on the in vivo measurements, quantitative and qualitative carcass characteristics, commercial cut ratio, and shoulder tissue composition of lambs. Thirty-two male lambs were distributed in four finishing systems with eight replications each, as follows: suckling lambs on pasture; suckling lambs in confinement, with access to creep-feeding containing corn bran and soybean meal; weaned lambs fed roughage, characterized by ad libitum supply of alfalfa hay; and weaned lambs fed concentrate, composed of oat grain and soybeanmeal. The lambs were slaughtered as they reached the pre-set live weight at slaughtering of 30 kg. Most of the in vivo biometry variables were not significant (P > 0.05) when comparing the finishing systems, except for hindlimb height and thoracic perimeter. Regarding the quantitative carcass characteristics, all variables differed (P < 0.05) between systems, except for carcass length, leg width, and subcutaneous fat thickness. For the qualitative carcass characteristics, only the fatness and carcass conformation presented significant differences (P < 0.05). Most in vivo measurements and the proportion of carcass cuts were not influenced by finishing systems. Weaned lambs fed an exclusive concentrate diet presented leaner carcasses with an inferior conformation when compared to the other finishing systems. Suckling lambs in confinement presented shoulders with a higher fat deposition when compared to those weaned. Suckling lambs both on pasture and in confinement presented a superiority in the quantitative carcass characteristics when compared to weaned lambs.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a influência dos diferentes sistemas de terminação sobre as mensurações in vivo, as características quantitativas e qualitativas da carcaça, a proporção dos cortes comerciais e a composição tecidual da paleta de cordeiros. Foram utilizados 32 cordeiros machos, distribuídos em quatro sistemas de terminação com oito repetições cada, conforme a seguir: cordeiros lactentes em pastagem; cordeiros lactentes em confinamento, com acesso ao creep-feeding contendo farelo de milho e soja; cordeiros desmamados com volumoso, caracterizado pelo fornecimento ad libitum de feno de alfafa; e cordeiros desmamados com concentrado, composto por grão de aveia e farelo de soja. Os cordeiros foram abatidos à medida que atingiram o peso vivo de abate pré-estabelecido de30 kg. A maioria das variáveis de biometria in vivo não foram significativas (P > 0,05) entre os sistemas de terminação, com exceção da altura do posterior e do perímetro torácico. Quanto às características quantitativas da carcaça, todas a variáveis foram diferentes (P < 0,05) entre os sistemas, exceto o comprimento de carcaça, a largura de perna e a espessura de gordura subcutânea. Para as características qualitativas da carcaça, apenas o estado de engorduramento e a conformação apresentaram diferenças significativas (P < 0,05). A maioria das mensurações in vivo e as proporções dos cortes da carcaça não sofreram influência dos sistemas de terminação. Os cordeiros desmamados com dieta exclusiva de concentrado, apresentaram carcaças magras com conformação inferior aos demais sistemas determinação. Os cordeiros lactentes em confinamento apresentaram paletas com maior deposição de gordura do que os desmamados. Tanto cordeiros lactentes em pastagem, quanto em confinamento, apresentaram superioridade nas características quantitativas da carcaça em relação aos cordeiros desmamados.