Efficacy and Safety of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir, Molnupiravir, and Remdesivir in a Real-World Cohort of Outpatients with COVID-19 at High Risk of Progression: The PISA Outpatient Clinic Experience.

INTRODUCTION: Different antivirals are available for the treatment of outpatients with COVID-19. Our aim was to describe a real-world experience of outpatient management of COVID-19 subjects at high risk of progression. METHODS: This prospective observational study conducted in the University Hospital of Pisa (January 2022-July 2022) included consecutive COVID-19 outpatients with at least one risk factor for disease progression. Patients received nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, molnupiravir, or 3-day remdesivir, according to the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) indications. All patients were followed up until 30 days from the first positive nasopharyngeal swab. The primary endpoint was a composite of death or hospitalization. Secondary endpoints were occurrence of adverse events and a negative test within 10 days from the first positive test. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify factors associated with death or hospitalization. RESULTS: Overall, 562 outpatients were included: 114 (20.3%) received molnupiravir, 252 (44.8%) nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, and 196 (34.9%) 3-day remdesivir. The composite endpoint occurred in 2.5% of patients and was more frequent in patients treated with remdesivir (5.1%) compared with molnupiravir (1.8%) or nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (0.8%, ANOVA among groups p = 0.012). On multivariable Cox regression analysis, presence of ≥ 3 comorbidities, hematological disease, gastrointestinal symptoms, and each-day increment from symptoms onset were factors associated with death or hospitalization, while antiviral treatment was not a predictor. Adverse events occurred more frequently in the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir group (49.2%). Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir compared with remdesivir was associated with a higher probability of having a negative test within 10 days from the first positive one. CONCLUSION: Death or hospitalization did not differ among high-risk COVID-19 outpatients treated with currently available antivirals. Safety and time to a negative test differed among the three drugs.

Predictors of intensive care unit admission in patients with Legionella pneumonia: role of the time to appropriate antibiotic therapy.

PURPOSE: Legionella spp. pneumonia (LP) is a cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) that requires early intervention. The median mortality rate varies from 4 to 11%, but it is higher in patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU). The objective of this study is to identify predictors of ICU admission in patients with LP. METHODS: A single-center, retrospective, observational study conducted in an academic tertiary-care hospital in Pisa, Italy. Adult patients with LP consecutively admitted to study center from October 2012 to October 2019. RESULTS: During the study period, 116 cases of LP were observed. The rate of ICU admission was 20.7% and the overall 30-day mortality rate was 12.1%. Mortality was 4.3% in patients hospitalized in medical wards versus 41.7% in patients transferred to ICU (p < 0.001). The majority of patients (74.1%) received levofloxacin as definitive therapy, followed by macrolides (16.4%), and combination of levofloxacin plus a macrolide (9.5%). In the multivariate analysis, diabetes (OR 8.28, CI 95% 2.11-35.52, p = 0.002), bilateral pneumonia (OR 10.1, CI 95% 2.74-37.27, p = 0.001), and cardiovascular events (OR 10.91, CI 95% 2.83-42.01, p = 0.001), were independently associated with ICU admission, while the receipt of macrolides/levofloxacin therapy within 24 h from admission was protective (OR 0.20, CI 95% 0.05-0.73, p = 0.01). Patients who received a late anti-Legionella antibiotic (> 24 h from admission) underwent urinary antigen test later compared to those who received early active antibiotic therapy (2 [2-4] vs. 1 [1-2] days, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Admission to ICU carries significantly increased mortality in patients with diagnosis of LP. Initial therapy with an antibiotic active against Legionella (levofloxacin or macrolides) reduces the probability to be transferred to ICU and should be provided in all cases until Legionella etiology is excluded.

Blended learning strategies in teaching general pathology at a medical course / Estratégias de blended learning (ensino híbrido) no ensino de patologia geral em um curso de medicina

ABSTRACT Introdution: In many medical schools, it is evident that learning of general pathology is deficient, mainly due to the disinterest in knowledge not directly related to professional practice and the lack of pedagogical resources that motivate learning. Blended learning (BL) is an active method of hybrid teaching that uses different technological resources, promoting greater dynamism and integration of students. Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate, from the perspective of the students of the medical course of Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP), the motivation and the capacity to contextualize provided by the employment of BL to the teaching of general pathology. Material and method: The BL sessions were performed during the applied in-class activities of pathology in the period from October 6 to 31, 2014, in the Neoplasms Module, with the second-year students of the medicine course at PUC-SP. Results: Most of the students showed acceptance of the method, greater motivation and ability to contextualize the pathological processes. Conclusion: The use of BL can provide students with greater contextualization of pathology in medical practice, contributing to a more meaningful learning.

RESUMO Introdução: Atualmente, em muitas escolas médicas, percebe-se que o aprendizado de patologia geral é deficiente, principalmente em decorrência do desinteresse pelos conhecimentos não diretamente relacionados com a prática profissional e da falta de recursos pedagógicos que motivem a aprendizagem. O blended learning (BL) é uma metodologia ativa de ensino híbrido que utiliza diferentes recursos tecnológicos, promovendo maior dinamismo e integração dos estudantes. Objetivo: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar, sob a ótica dos estudantes do curso de medicina da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP), a motivação e a capacidade de contextualização proporcionada pela associação do BL ao ensino de patologia geral. Material e método: As sessões de BL foram realizadas durante as sustentações aplicadas de patologia no período de 6 a 31 de outubro de 2014, no Módulo de Neoplasias, com os alunos do segundo ano do curso de medicina da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas e da Saúde da PUC-SP. Resultados: A maioria dos discentes mostrou aceitação ao método, maior motivação e capacidade de contextualizar os processos patológicos. Conclusão: O uso de BL pode proporcionar aos alunos maior contextualização da patologia na prática médica, contribuindo para um aprendizado mais significativo.

Effects of physical training and potassium supplementation on blood pressure, glucose metabolism and albuminuria of spontaneously hypertensive rats.

INTRODUCTION: It is still controversial whether there are synergistic effects among different non-pharmacological interventions used in the treatment of hypertension. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise, oral supplementation of potassium and their combination on blood pressure, glucose metabolism, urinary albumin excretion and glomerular morphology in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). METHODS: SHR were divided into groups: Control Group (SHR; standard diet and sedentary, n = 10), Exercise Group (SHR + E; trained on a treadmill, standard diet, n = 10), Potassium Group (SHR + K; sedentary, potassium supplementation, n = 10) and Group Exercise + Potassium (SHR + E + K, exercise, potassium supplementation n = 10). Weekly, body weight (BW) and tail blood pressure (TAP) were measured. At the end of 16 weeks, a Oral Glucose Tolerance Test was performed. Albuminuria was determined in the baseline period, at 8th and at 16th week. After sacrifice, the analysis of glomerular sclerosis index and visceral fat weight was performed. RESULTS: The TAP and BW did not change significantly. There was improvement in insulin sensitivity in SHR + E and SHR + K, but not in SHR + E + K. At week 16, albuminuria in all groups was significantly lower than the SHR control. The glomerular sclerosis index and visceral fat content were also significantly lower in all groups compared to control. CONCLUSION: An oral supplementation of potassium and exercise led to an improvement in glucose metabolism, in albuminuria and glomerular morphology, however, the overlap of the treatments did not show synergism.

Efeito do exercício físico e suplementação de potássio sobre a pressão arterial, metabolismo glicídico e albuminúria de ratos hipertensos / Effects of physical training and potassium supplementation on blood pressure, glucose metabolism and albuminuria of spontaneously hypertensive rats

Introdução: Ainda é controverso se ocorre sinergismo entre as diferentes medidas não farmacológicas utilizadas no tratamento da hipertensão arterial. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito do exercício físico aeróbico, da sobrecarga oral de potássio e da sua associação sobre a pressão arterial, metabolismo glicídico, excreção urinária de albumina e morfologia glomerular de ratos espontaneamente hipertensos (SHR). Métodos: SHRs foram divididos em: Grupo Controle (SHR; dieta padrão e sedentário, n = 10); Grupo Exercício (SHR + E; treinado em esteira rolante, dieta padrão, n = 10), Grupo Potássio (SHR + K; sedentário, dieta rica em potássio, n = 10) e Grupo Exercício + Potássio (SHR + E + K; exercitado, dieta rica em potássio, n = 10). Semanalmente, foi aferido o peso corporal (PC) e a pressão arterial de cauda (PAC). Ao final de 16 semanas, foi realizado o Teste de Tolerância oral a Glicose. A albuminúria foi determinada nos períodos basal, na 8ª e 16ª semana. Após o sacrifício, foi realizada a análise do índice de esclerose glomerular e a pesagem da gordura visceral. Resultados: A PAC e o PC não variaram significativamente. Houve melhora da sensibilidade à insulina no Grupo Exercício e Grupo Potássio, mas não no Grupo Exercício + Potássio. Na 16ª semana, a albuminúria de todos os grupos foi significativamente menor que o grupo SHR Controle. O índice de esclerose glomerular e o peso da gordura visceral também foram significativamente menores em todos os grupos tratados quando comparados ao controle. Conclusão: A dieta rica em potássio e o exercício físico determinaram melhora no metabolismo glicídico, na albuminúria e na morfologia glomerular, porém, a sobreposição ...

Introduction: It is still controversial whether there are synergistic effects among different non-pharmacological interventions used in the treatment of hypertension. Objetives: To evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise, oral supplementation of potassium and their combination on blood pressure, glucose metabolism, urinary albumin excretion and glomerular morphology in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Methods: SHR were divided into groups: Control Group (SHR; standard diet and sedentary, n = 10), Exercise Group (SHR + E; trained on a treadmill, standard diet, n = 10), Potassium Group (SHR + K; sedentary, potassium supplementation, n = 10) and Group Exercise + Potassium (SHR + E + K, exercise, potassium supplementation n = 10). Weekly, body weight (BW) and tail blood pressure (TAP) were measured. At the end of 16 weeks, a Oral Glucose Tolerance Test was performed. Albuminuria was determined in the baseline period, at 8th and at 16th week. After sacrifice, the analysis of glomerular sclerosis index and visceral fat weight was performed. Results: The TAP and BW did not change significantly. There was improvement in insulin sensitivity in SHR + E and SHR + K, but not in SHR + E + K. At week 16, albuminuria in all groups was significantly lower than the SHR control. The glomerular sclerosis index and visceral fat content were also significantly lower in all groups compared to control. Conclusion: An oral supplementation of potassium and exercise led to an improvement in glucose metabolism, in albuminuria and glomerular morphology, however, the overlap of the treatments did not show synergism. .

[Effects of the overlapping between an experimental model of neuroendocrine obesity with arterial hypertension under blood pressure, body weight and metabolic and renal parameters in rats]. / Efeito da sobreposição de um modelo de obesidade neuroendócrina experimental e hipertensão arterial sobre a pressão arterial, peso corporal e parâmetros metabólicos e renais de ratos.

INTRODUCTION: Increased body mass index and the metabolic syndrome are associated with decreased renal function and the development of end-stage kidney disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of the overlap between an experimental model of obesity and genetic hypertension on the blood pressure, body weight and metabolic and kidney parameters of rats. METHODS: We studied male rats of the Wistar (WST) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) strains. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) was administered in the neonatal period to both strains, to make up two groups: WST + MSG and SHR + MSG. Animals in the control groups (WST and SHR) received saline. After completing three months of life, a 12-week follow-up period ensued, during which bi-weekly measurements of body weight (BW) and tail-cuff blood pressure (TCBP) were obtained. Microalbuminuria was analyzed at weeks 0, 4, 8 and 12. At the end of the follow-up period, blood was obtained for fasting glucose, plasma creatinine, and lipid profile determinations. The kidneys were removed, stained, and the glomerular sclerosis index was calculated. RESULTS: The administration of MSG produced higher percentage body weight gain, higher fasting blood glucose and a higher degree of glomerular injury in WST-MSG and MSG-SHR rats, compared to their controls. Greater urinary albumin excretion was observed in SHR + MSG rats, when compared to SHR. There was no statistical difference in the TCBP, creatinine, and lipid profile. CONCLUSIONS: The association of neuroendocrine obesity and arterial hypertension promoted morphological and functional changes in the glomerulus. These changes were more severe than those observed in hypertensive-only rats.

Efeito da sobreposição de um modelo de obesidade neuroendócrina experimental e hipertensão arterial sobre a pressão arterial, peso corporal e parâmetros metabólicos e renais de ratos / Effects of the overlapping between an experimental model of neuroendocrine obesity with arterial hypertension under blood pressure, body weight and metabolic and renal parameters in rats

INTRODUÇÃO: A elevação do índice de massa corporaleapresençadesíndromemetabólica se associam com diminuição da função renal e o aparecimento de doença renal terminal. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito da sobreposição de um modelo de obesidade experimental e hipertensão arterial sobre a pressão arterial, peso corporal e parâmetros metabólicos e renais de ratos. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados ratos machos das cepas Wistar e espontaneamente hipertensos (SHR). Os grupos MSG receberam glutamato monossódico no período neonatal (WST + MSG e SHR + MSG). Os animais controles receberam salina no período neonatal (WST e SHR). Após completarem três meses de vida, por 12 semanas foram pesados e tiveram a pressão arterial de cauda aferida semanalmente. A determinação de microalbuminúria foi realizada nas semanas 0, 4, 8 e 12. Ao final do período de acompanhamento, coletou-se sangue para glicemia de jejum, creatinina e perfil lipídico. Os rins foram retirados, corados e o índice de esclerose glomerular foi calculado. RESULTADOS: A administração de MSG produziu maior ganho percentual de peso corporal, elevação da glicemia de jejum e maior grau de lesão glomerular nos ratos WST -MSG e SHR -MSG quando comparados aos seus controles. Houve maior excreção urinária de albumina nos ratos do Grupo SHR + MSG quando comparados aos SHR. Não houve diferença estatística na pressão arterial de cauda, creatinina e parâmetros do metabolismo lipídico. CONCLUSÕES: A associação de obesidade neuroendócrina e a hipertensão arterial promoveram alterações morfológicas e funcionais no glomérulo mais severas do que aquelas observadas nos ratos somente hipertensos.

INTRODUCTION: Increased body mass index and the metabolic syndrome are associated with decreased renal function and the development of end-stage kidney disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of the overlap between an experimental model of obesity and genetic hypertension on the blood pressure, body weight and metabolic and kidney parameters of rats. METHODS: We studied male rats of the Wistar (WST) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) strains. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) was administered in the neonatal period to both strains, to make up two groups: WST + MSG and SHR + MSG. Animals in the control groups (WST and SHR) received saline. After completing three months of life, a 12-week follow-up period ensued, during which bi-weekly measurements of body weight (BW) and tail-cuff blood pressure (TCBP) were obtained. Microalbuminuria was analyzed at weeks 0, 4, 8 and 12. At the end of the follow-up period, blood was obtained for fasting glucose, plasma creatinine, and lipid profile determinations. The kidneys were removed, stained, and the glomerular sclerosis index was calculated. RESULTS: The administration of MSG produced higher percentage body weight gain, higher fasting blood glucose and a higher degree of glomerular injury in WST-MSG and MSG-SHR rats, compared to their controls. Greater urinary albumin excretion was observed in SHR + MSG rats, when compared to SHR. There was no statistical difference in the TCBP, creatinine, and lipid profile. CONCLUSIONS: The association of neuroendocrine obesity and arterial hypertension promoted morphological and functional changes in the glomerulus. These changes were more severe than those observed in hypertensive-only rats.

Hemodinâmica sistêmica e função ventricular esquerda de ratos hipertensos tornados diabéticos / Systemic hemodynamic and left ventricular function of diabetic-induced hypertensive rats

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a indução do diabetes melito tipo 1 (DM1) na hemodinâmica sistêmica e função ventricular de ratos normotensos e hipertensos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: O DM1 foi induzido por estreptozotocina em ratos Wistar (WST), borderline hypertensive rats (BHR) e spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). A hemodinâmica sistêmica foi avaliada por termodiluição e a função ventricular, pela preparação de Langendorff. RESULTADOS: A indução de DM1 produziu aumento na pressão arterial de WST e BHR. O DM1 determinou aumento na resistência periférica total no grupo WST e diminuição do débito cardíaco e do volume sistólico nos grupos WST e BHR. Índices de função sistólica foram reduzidos e a rigidez ventricular, apenas nos ratos WST diabéticos. Todos esses efeitos foram mais proeminentes nos ratos WST diabéticos. CONCLUSÃO: O DM1 foi acompanhado por importantes alterações nas funções sistólica e diastólica, levando a uma diminuição nos valores hemodinâmicos sistêmicos que não foram alterados pela hipertensão arterial.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of type-1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) induction on systemic hemodynamic and ventricular function of normotensive and hypertensive rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: DM1 was induced by streptozotocin in Wistar rats (WST), borderline hypertensive rats (BHR) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The systemic hemodynamic was evaluated by thermodilution and ventricular function by Langendorff preparation. RESULTS: DM1-induction increased tail arterial pressure of WST and BHR. DM1 also increased total peripheral resistance in WST and decrease in cardiac output stroke volume in WST and BHR. Systolic function indexes were reduced and ventricular stiffness increased in all WST-diabetic rats. All of these effects were more prominent on diabetic WST rats. CONCLUSION: The DM1 in rats was accompanied by important changes in both systolic and diastolic heart function leading to significant changes in the systemic hemodynamics that were not significantly enhanced by hypertension.

Effects of the association of experimental neuroendocrine and exocrine obesity on tail blood pressure and glucose metabolism in Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE: To study two different models of obesity, exocrine and endocrine, and its association on tail arterial pressure (TAP), body weight (BW), glucose metabolism and visceral fat content. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were studied. The MSG group was composed by rats that received of MSG in neonatal period. At the 3rd month of life, part of these animals received cafeteria diet. Animals received saline control in the neonatal period. In the 12 weeks of study, body weight and blood pressure were measured twice a week. In the end of this period on, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) was performed and the Insulin Sensitivity Index (ISI) was calculated, also the left Relative Ventricular Weight (RLW) and Relative Epididimal Fat Weight (REFW) were obtained. RESULTS: No changes on BW and TAP were verified. The obesity induced by MSG and CAF, individually, let to increases on insulin resistance (WST = 23,25 ± 9,31; CAF = 15,92 ± 9,10*; MSG = 13,41 ± 3,84* mg-1mU-1, p < 0,05 vs WST) and relative epididimal fat content (WST = 6,20 ± 0,57; CAF = 8,27 ± 1,53*; MSG = 8,23 ± 1,98* g/100 g, *p < 0,05) when these rats were compared to control rats. An enhanced effect upon these parameters was observed with the association of both obesity models (MSG+CAF = 9,34 ± 5,77 mg-1mU-1, p < 0,05 vs MSG and CAF) and visceral fat content (MSG+CAF = 11,12 ± 3,85 g/100g, p < 0,05 vs MSG and CAF). CONCLUSION: The association of these two experimental models of obesity aggravates insulin resistance that probably is due at least in part to the increase of visceral fat content.

Efeito da associação entre obesidade neuroendócrina e exócrina experimental sobre a pressão arterial de cauda e o metabolismo de glicose de ratos Wistar / Effects of the association of experimental neuroendocrine and exocrine obesity on tail blood pressure and glucose metabolism in Wistar rats

OBJETIVO: Estudar dois modelos de obesidade, exócrina e endócrina, e sua associação sobre a pressão arterial de cauda (PAC), o peso corporal (PC), o metabolismo glicídico (ISI) e gordura epididimal relativa (GER). MÉTODOS: Foram estudados ratos machos da cepa Wistar. O grupo MSG recebeu glutamato monossódico no período neonatal. Aos 3 meses de idade parte desses animais passou a receber dieta cafeteria (CAF). Os animais receberam controle salina no período neonatal. Durante 12 semanas foram pesados (PC) e tiveram a pressão arterial de cauda (PAC) aferida. O Teste de Tolerância Oral à Glicose foi realizado e o Índice de Sensibilidade à Insulina (ISI), calculado. O peso ventricular relativo (PVR) e a gordura epididimal relativa (GER) também foram calculados. RESULTADOS: Não se verificou alterações no PC e na PAC. A obesidade induzida pela administração de MSG e CAF, isoladamente, promoveu aumento da resistência à insulina (WST = 23,25 ± 9,31; CAF = 15,92 ± 9,10*; MSG = 13,41 ± 3,84* mg-1mU-1, p < 0,05 vs WST) e da gordura visceral (WST = 6,20 ± 0,57; CAF = 8,27 ± 1,53*; MSG = 8,23 ± 1,98* g/100 g, *p < 0,05), quando esses animais foram comparados com os controles. A associação de ambos os modelos de obesidade produziu um efeito sinérgico sobre a resistência à insulina (MSG+CAF = 9,34 ± 5,77 mg-1mU-1, p<0,05 vs MSG e CAF) e sobre o conteúdo de gordura visceral (MSG+CAF = 11,12 ± 3,85 g/100g, p < 0,05 vs MSG e CAF). CONCLUSÃO : A associação de dois modelos de obesidade agrava a resistência à insulina e esse fato pode ser atribuído pelo menos em parte ao aumento da GER.

OBJECTIVE: To study two different models of obesity, exocrine and endocrine, and its association on tail arterial pressure (TAP), body weight (BW), glucose metabolism and visceral fat content. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were studied. The MSG group was composed by rats that received of MSG in neonatal period. At the 3rd month of life, part of these animals received cafeteria diet. Animals received saline control in the neonatal period. In the 12 weeks of study, body weight and blood pressure were measured twice a week. In the end of this period on, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) was performed and the Insulin Sensitivity Index (ISI) was calculated, also the left Relative Ventricular Weight (RLW) and Relative Epididimal Fat Weight (REFW) were obtained. RESULTS: No changes on BW and TAP were verified. The obesity induced by MSG and CAF, individually, let to increases on insulin resistance (WST = 23,25 ± 9,31; CAF = 15,92 ± 9,10*; MSG = 13,41 ± 3,84* mg-1mU-1, p < 0,05 vs WST) and relative epididimal fat content (WST = 6,20 ± 0,57; CAF = 8,27 ± 1,53*; MSG = 8,23 ± 1,98* g/100 g, *p < 0,05) when these rats were compared to control rats. An enhanced effect upon these parameters was observed with the association of both obesity models (MSG+CAF = 9,34 ± 5,77 mg-1mU-1, p < 0,05 vs MSG and CAF) and visceral fat content (MSG+CAF = 11,12 ± 3,85 g/100g, p < 0,05 vs MSG and CAF). CONCLUSION: The association of these two experimental models of obesity aggravates insulin resistance that probably is due at least in part to the increase of visceral fat content.

[Systemic hemodynamic and left ventricular function of diabetic-induced hypertensive rats]. / Hemodinâmica sistêmica e função ventricular esquerda de ratos hipertensos tornados diabéticos.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of type-1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) induction on systemic hemodynamic and ventricular function of normotensive and hypertensive rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: DM1 was induced by streptozotocin in Wistar rats (WST), borderline hypertensive rats (BHR) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The systemic hemodynamic was evaluated by thermodilution and ventricular function by Langendorff preparation. RESULTS: DM1-induction increased tail arterial pressure of WST and BHR. DM1 also increased total peripheral resistance in WST and decrease in cardiac output stroke volume in WST and BHR. Systolic function indexes were reduced and ventricular stiffness increased in all WST-diabetic rats. All of these effects were more prominent on diabetic WST rats. CONCLUSION: The DM1 in rats was accompanied by important changes in both systolic and diastolic heart function leading to significant changes in the systemic hemodynamics that were not significantly enhanced by hypertension.

[Metformin effects upon blood pressure and glucose metabolism of monossodium glutamate induced-obese spontaneously hypertensive rats]. / Efeitos da administração de metformina sobre a pressão arterial e o metabolismo glicídico de ratos espontaneamente hipertensos tornados obesos pela injeção neonatal de glutamato monossódico.

OBJECTIVES: To make available experimental model for the metabolic syndrome (MS) and verify effects of chronic oral treatment with metformin upon blood pressure (BP), body weight (BW), glucose metabolism, epididimal fat content (EF). METHOD: Males SHR received monossodium glutamate (MSG, 2 mg/kg/day/sc) during first 11 days of life. Control animals received saline. After 12 weeks, animals were separated in two groups, treated either with metformin 500 mg/ kg/day or vehicle during 12 weeks. PA and BW were determined. At the end of the follow-up, animals underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin sensitivity index was determined. Upon sacrifice EF was measured. RESULTS: MSG worsened insulin resistance and induced visceral obesity in SHR, without change BP. Treatment with metformin improved glucose metabolism and reduces EF and BP. CONCLUSIONS: These observations emphasize the role of hepatic insulin resistance on MS and point out for beneficial cardiovascular effects with improvement in the insulin sensitivity.

Efeitos da administração de metformina sobre a pressão arterial e o metabolismo glicídico de ratos espontaneamente hipertensos tornados obesos pela injeção neonatal de glutamato monossódico / Metformin effects upon blood pressure and glucose metabolism of monossodium glutamate induced-obese spontaneously hypertensive rats

OBJETIVOS: Produzir um modelo experimental de síndrome metabólica (SM) e analisar efeitos da metformina sobre pressão arterial (PA), peso corporal (PC), metabolismo glicídico e conteúdo de gordura epididimal (GE). MÉTODO: Os machos SHR receberam 2 mg/kg/dia de glutamato monossódico (MSG) até o 11º dia de vida. Os controles receberam salina. Após 12 semanas, foram separados em dois grupos e tratados com 500 mg/kg/dia de metformina ou veículo. Foram acompanhados a PA e o PC dos dois grupos. Ao final do seguimento, realizou-se o teste de tolerância à glicose oral (TTGO) e mediu-se o índice de sensibilidade à insulina. Após sacrifício dos animais, a GE foi pesada. RESULTADOS: A administração de MSG intensificou a resistência insulínica e aumentou o conteúdo de GE, sem, no entanto, alterar a PA. O tratamento com metformina promoveu melhora da sensibilidade insulínica e redução da GE e PA. CONCLUSÕES: Observou-se importante papel da resistência hepática à insulina na SM e efeitos cardiovasculares benéficos da melhora na sensibilidade insulínica.

OBJECTIVES: To make available experimental model for the metabolic syndrome (MS) and verify effects of chronic oral treatment with metformin upon blood pressure (BP), body weight (BW), glucose metabolism, epididimal fat content (EF). METHOD: Males SHR received monossodium glutamate (MSG, 2 mg/kg/day/sc) during first 11 days of life. Control animals received saline. After 12 weeks, animals were separated in two groups, treated either with metformin 500 mg/ kg/day or vehicle during 12 weeks. PA and BW were determined. At the end of the follow-up, animals underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin sensitivity index was determined. Upon sacrifice EF was measured. RESULTS: MSG worsened insulin resistance and induced visceral obesity in SHR, without change BP. Treatment with metformin improved glucose metabolism and reduces EF and BP. CONCLUSIONS: These observations emphasize the role of hepatic insulin resistance on MS and point out for beneficial cardiovascular effects with improvement in the insulin sensitivity.

[Effects of neuroendocrine obesity induction on systemic hemodynamics and left ventricular function of normotensive rats]. / Efeito da indução de obesidade neuroendócrina sobre a hemodinâmica sistêmica e a função ventricular esquerda de ratos normotensos.

UNLABELLED: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of obesity induced by neonatal Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) administration upon body weight, tail blood pressure, systemic hemodynamics and left ventricular function of Wistar rats. Two groups of Wistar rats were prepared: a) 18 animals made obese through the administration of 2 mg/Kg/SC of MSG during the first 11 days of the neonatal period and b)16 control animals (vehicle treated for the same period). Adults animals were followed from the 3rd up the 6th month of life with blood pressure and body weight being measured twice a week. At the end of this period, in part of animals from both groups, we evaluated the left ventricular function through the Langendorff isolated heart preparation whereas the remainders were used to evaluate the systemic hemodynamics through a termodilution method. RESULTS: MSG animals showed significant increases in heart rate (WST=235.0+/-35.1; MSG=312.0+/-90.8 bpm), total peripheral resistance (WST=0.312+/-0.100; MSG=0.535+/-0.195 mmHg.ml(-1).min) and in relative epididymal adipose tissue content (WST=2.076+/-0.622; MSG=2.731+/-0.722 g/100 g) and a reduction of systolic volume (WST=1.020+/-0.364; MSG=0.748+/-0.455 microl/bat). An increase in mean arterial pressure was also detected in obese animals during the hemodynamic evaluation. The increases in HR and TPR and the reduction in SV suggest an augmentation in the sympathetic activation of those obese normotensive rats associated with an increased visceral fat deposition.

Efeito da indução de obesidade neuroendócrina sobre a hemodinâmica sistêmica e a função ventricular esquerda de ratos normotensos / Effects of neuroendocrine obesity induction on systemic hemodynamics and left ventricular function of normotensive rats

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito da obesidade induzida pela administração neonatal de glutamato monossódico (MSG) sobre o peso corporal, a pressão arterial de cauda, a hemodinâmica sistêmica e a função ventricular esquerda de ratos Wistar. Dois grupos de ratos Wistar foram preparados: a)18 animais foram tornados obesos por meio da administração de 2 mg/kg/SC de MSG durante os 11 primeiros dias do período neonatal e b)16 animais controles (que receberam o veículo do MSG pelo mesmo período). Animais adultos foram acompanhados dos três aos seis meses de vida e tiveram pressão arterial e peso corporal medidos duas vezes por semana. Ao final desse período, em parte dos animais dos dois grupos, avaliou-se a função ventricular por intermédio da preparação do coração isolado de Langerdorff, e os animais restantes foram usados para o estudo da hemodinâmica sistêmica por meio de um método de termodiluição. Resultados: Nos animais MSG houve aumento da gordura epididimal relativa (WST = 2,076 ± 0,622; MSG = 2,731 ± 0,722 g/100 g), aumento significante da freqüência cardíaca (WST = 235,0 ± 35,1; MSG = 312,0 ± 90,8 bpm), da resistência periférica total (WST = 0,312 ± 0,100; MSG = 0,535 ± 0,195 mmHg.ml-1.min), e diminuição do volume sistólico (WST = 1,020 ± 0,364; MSG = 0,748 ± 0,455 µl/bat). No estudo hemodinâmico, também detectou-se nos animais obesos aumento da pressão arterial média. Os aumentos da FC e da RPT e a diminuição do VS sugerem que houve aumento da atividade simpática nos ratos normotensos com obesidade associado ao aumento da deposição de gordura visceral.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of obesity induced by neonatal Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) administration upon body weight, tail blood pressure, systemic hemodynamics and left ventricular function of Wistar rats. Two groups of Wistar rats were prepared: a) 18 animals made obese through the administration of 2mg/Kg/SC of MSG during the first 11 days of the neonatal period and b)16 control animals (vehicle treated for the same period). Adults animals were followed from the 3rd up the 6th month of life with blood pressure and body weight being measured twice a week. At the end of this period, in part of animals from both groups, we evaluated the left ventricular function through the Langendorff isolated heart preparation whereas the remainders were used to evaluate the systemic hemodynamics through a termodilution method. Results: MSG animals showed significant increases in heart rate (WST = 235,0 ± 35,1; MSG = 312,0 ± 90,8 bpm), total peripheral resistance (WST = 0,312 ± 0,100; MSG = 0,535 ± 0,195 mmHg.ml-1.min) and in relative epididymal adipose tissue content (WST = 2,076 ± 0,622; MSG = 2,731 ± 0,722 g/100g) and a reduction of systolic volume (WST = 1,020 ± 0,364; MSG = 0,748 ± 0,455 ml/bat). An increase in mean arterial pressure was also detected in obese animals during the hemodynamic evaluation. The increases in HR and TPR and the reduction in SV suggest an augmentation in the sympathetic activation of those obese normotensive rats associated with an increased visceral fat deposition.

[Experimental models of insulin resistance and obesity: lessons learned]. / Modelos experimentais de resistência à insulina e obesidade: lições aprendidas.

For better understanding the role of each element involved in the physiopathology of obesity and insulin resistance, researchers can use experimental models, which may in controlled manner evaluate the participation of each element on the obesity and insulin resistance and provide information for better understanding the physiopathology and treatment of obesity and insulin resistance. Experimental obesity and insulin resistance can be due to a deficient response to leptin, secondary to hypoleptinemia and/or mutations on leptin receptor, by modifications on insulin receptor, deletion or diminished insulin signal transduction, enhancement of the effects of orexigen peptides and/or diminution of anorexigen peptides actions on hypothalamus, as well as secondary to arterial hypertension, as in the spontaneously hypertension. Obesity and insulin resistance can also be induced by glucocorticoid excess, frutose enriched and cafeteria diet and due to hypothalamus lesions induced by neonatal administration of monossodium glutamate.

Modelos experimentais de resistência à insulina e obesidade: lições aprendidas / Experimental models of insulin resistance and obesity: lessons learned

Para melhor compreender o papel de cada um dos elementos envolvidos na fisiopatologia da obesidade e da resistência à insulina, pesquisadores utilizam-se de modelos experimentais, que podem determinar de maneira controlada o papel de cada um dos componentes da resistência à insulina e obesidade e, desta maneira, fornecer subsídios para a melhor compreensão da fisiopatolologia e tratamento da resistência à insulina e obesidade. A obesidade e a resistência à insulina experimentais podem ser verificadas quando ocorre diminuição da resposta à leptina, seja por menor produção ou alteração no seu receptor, modificações no receptor de insulina, por deleção do receptor ou alteração da transdução dos seu sinal, exacerbação do efeito de peptídeos orexígenos e/ou menor ação de peptídeos anorexígenos no hipotálamo, ou ainda secundária à hipertensão arterial, como nos ratos espontaneamente hipertensos. O excesso de glicocorticóides, a adição de uma dieta rica em frutose, ou ainda uma dieta hipercalórica, além da lesão hipotalâmica induzida pela administração neonatal de monoglutamato de sódio, são exemplos de obesidade e resistência à insulina induzidos.

For better understanding the role of each element involved in the physiopathology of obesity and insulin resistance, researchers can use experimental models, which may in controlled manner evaluate the participation of each element on the obesity and insulin resistance and provide information for better understanding the physiopathology and treatment of obesity and insulin resistance. Experimental obesity and insulin resistance can be due to a deficient response to leptin, secondary to hypoleptinemia and/or mutations on leptin receptor, by modifications on insulin receptor, deletion or diminished insulin signal transduction, enhancement of the effects of orexigen peptides and/or diminution of anorexigen peptides actions on hypothalamus, as well as secondary to arterial hypertension, as in the spontaneously hypertension. Obesity and insulin resistance can also be induced by glucocorticoid excess, frutose enriched and cafeteria diet and due to hypothalamus lesions induced by neonatal administration of monossodium glutamate.

Hemodinâmica e funçäo cardíaca no diabete melito experimental isolado ou associado à hipertensäo genética / Systemic hemodynamics and heart function in experimental diabetes mellitus alone or associated with genetic hypertension

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