Smell loss associated with SARS-CoV-2 is not clinically different from other viruses: a multicenter cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Although the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the prevalence of cases with olfactory loss, other respiratory viruses can also cause this condition. We aimed to compare the prevalence of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and other respiratory viruses in patients with sudden smell loss, and to assess the impact of SARS-CoV-2 viral load and co-infection on olfactory symptoms. METHODS: Patients with sudden smell loss were recruited in a multicenter prospective cohort study in 15 hospitals in Brazil. Clinical questionnaire, Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center (CCCRC) olfactory test and nasopharyngeal swab to perform a PCR-based respiratory viral panel were collected at first visit (day 0) and 30 and 60 days after recruitment. RESULTS: 188 of 213 patients presented positive test result for SARS-CoV-2, among which 65 were co-infected with other respiratory viruses (e.g., rhinovirus, enterovirus, and parainfluenza). 25 had negative test results for SARS-CoV-2. Patients in both SARSCoV-2 and non-SARS-CoV-2 groups had objective anosmia (less than 2 points according to the psychophysical olfactory CCCRC) at day 0, with no significant difference between them. Both groups had significant smell scores improvement after 30 and 60 days, with no difference between them. Co-infection with other respiratory viruses, and SARS-CoV-2 viral load did not impact olfactory scores. CONCLUSION: Patients with sudden smell loss associated with SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses had similar presentation, with most participants initiating with anosmia, and total or near total recovery after 60 days. SARS-CoV-2 viral load and co-infections with other respiratory viruses were not associated with poorer olfactory outcomes.

The influence of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) on chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

BACKGROUND: Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) modulate the inflammatory process, and may facilitate the formation of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). This study aimed to observe if IAPs were differently expressed between patients with CRSwNP and controls, and to correlate the expression of IAPs with some inflammatory markers, as with the response to nasal corticosteroids in patients with CRSwNP. METHODOLOGY: We obtained nasal biopsies from patients with CRSwNP (n=27) and controls (n=16). qRT-PCR measured the expression of IAPs and caspases, while Luminex assay measured the concentration of cytokines. Unpaired parametric tests and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: We observed lower expression of IAP genes (XIAP, BIRC2/IAP1, and BIRC3/IAP2) in CRSwNP patients compared to controls, and we identified that patients with bad response to corticosteroids presented lower levels of BIRC2/IAP1, XIAP, BCL2, CASP9, and IL-17, and higher levels of CASP7 and TGF-B. CONCLUSIONS: IAPs expression was downregulated in CRSwNP, and was associated with poorer response to nasal corticosteroids. The present findings suggest the importance of IAPs as a link between environment and the host inflammatory responses, and this pathway could be explored as a potential new target therapy for patients with CRSwNP.

Degradation of Methylparaben Using Optimal WO3 Nanostructures: Influence of the Annealing Conditions and Complexing Agent.

In this work, WO3 nanostructures were synthesized with different complexing agents (0.05 M H2O2 and 0.1 M citric acid) and annealing conditions (400 °C, 500 °C and 600 °C) to obtain optimal WO3 nanostructures to use them as a photoanode in the photoelectrochemical (PEC) degradation of an endocrine disruptor chemical. These nanostructures were studied morphologically by a field emission scanning electron microscope. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was performed to provide information of the electronic states of the nanostructures. The crystallinity of the samples was observed by a confocal Raman laser microscope and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, photoelectrochemical measurements (photostability, photoelectrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Mott-Schottky and water-splitting test) were also performed using a solar simulator with AM 1.5 conditions at 100 mW·cm-2. Once the optimal nanostructure was obtained (citric acid 0.01 M at an annealing temperature of 600 °C), the PEC degradation of methylparaben (CO 10 ppm) was carried out. It was followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, which allowed to obtain the concentration of the contaminant during degradation and the identification of degradation intermediates. The optimized nanostructure was proved to be an efficient photocatalyst since the degradation of methylparaben was performed in less than 4 h and the kinetic coefficient of degradation was 0.02 min-1.

[Towards an early differential diagnosis in autism spectrum disorders and fragile X syndrome. A systematic review]. / Hacia un diagnóstico diferencial temprano en el trastorno del espectro autista y el síndrome de X frágil. Una revisión sistemática.

INTRODUCTION: Nearly 60% of those diagnosed with fragile X syndrome show comorbidity with autism. Thus, there are similarities and differences between both conditions that lead to very different clinical manifestations. However, an early differential diagnosis may help professionals to detect deficits and enhance strengths to apply the best suitable intervention. The purpose of this scoping review was to provide a comprehensive overview of the relation and the differences between autism and fragile X syndrome to orientate diagnosis and intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The research for articles was carried out in PsycInfo, Medline, SCOPUS and Web of Science, including scientific articles published from 2010 to 2020 and children aged 0-6 years. The scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR criteria. RESULTS: 22 studies were selected. Results were reviewed in terms of structural and morphological changes and cognitive, communicative, social-emotional and sensory-motor skills. CONCLUSIONS: Different growing cerebral patterns are observed in both conditions. Besides, there are early signs from the different developmental areas studied that show comorbidity or allow early differentiation. However, attentional function or repetitive mannerisms, among others, need further research.

TITLE: Hacia un diagnóstico diferencial temprano en el trastorno del espectro autista y el síndrome de X frágil. Una revisión sistemática.Introducción. Aproximadamente el 60% de las personas con síndrome de X frágil también reciben un diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro autista. Entre estos trastornos existen tantas semejanzas como diferencias, que provocan cuadros clínicos distintos, por lo que es importante el diagnóstico diferencial temprano, de cara a conocer los déficits y fortalezas de cada niño y ajustar el tipo de intervención lo mejor posible. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo realizar una aproximación al conocimiento de la relación y las diferencias de ambas condiciones, y contribuir al diagnóstico diferencial y la posterior intervención. Materiales y métodos. Siguiendo el protocolo PRISMA-ScR, se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos de PsycInfo, Medline, SCOPUS y Web of Science, incluyendo los artículos científicos empíricos centrados en la etapa de los 0 a los 6 años desde 2010 a 2020. Resultados. Se seleccionaron 22 estudios en los que se trata el desarrollo inicial de estos dos trastornos y su confluencia. Los resultados se reagruparon en función de cambios morfológico-estructurales, y de las áreas cognitivas, comunicativas, socioemocionales y sensoriomotoras. Conclusiones. A nivel morfológico-estructural, parecen existir ciertos patrones de crecimiento cerebral diferenciadores entre estos trastornos. Asimismo, existen ciertas señales de alarma en las distintas áreas del desarrollo que son indicativas de comorbilidad o permiten la discriminación entre patologías, y existe cierto debate en torno a algunas de ellas, como el nivel atencional o los manierismos repetitivos.

Hacia un diagnóstico diferencial temprano en el trastorno del espectro autista y el síndrome de X frágil. Una revisión sistemática / Towards an early differential diagnosis in autism spectrum disorders and fragile X syndrome. A systematic review

Introducción: Aproximadamente el 60% de las personas con síndrome de X frágil también reciben un diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro autista. Entre estos trastornos existen tantas semejanzas como diferencias, que provocan cuadros clínicos distintos, por lo que es importante el diagnóstico diferencial temprano, de cara a conocer los déficits y fortalezas de cada niño y ajustar el tipo de intervención lo mejor posible. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo realizar una aproximación al conocimiento de la relación y las diferencias de ambas condiciones, y contribuir al diagnóstico diferencial y la posterior intervención.Materiales y métodos: Siguiendo el protocolo PRISMA-ScR, se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos de PsycInfo, Medline, SCOPUS y Web of Science, incluyendo los artículos científicos empíricos centrados en la etapa de los 0 a los 6 años desde 2010 a 2020.Resultados: Se seleccionaron 22 estudios en los que se trata el desarrollo inicial de estos dos trastornos y su confluencia. Los resultados se reagruparon en función de cambios morfológico-estructurales, y de las áreas cognitivas, comunicativas, socioemocionales y sensoriomotoras.Conclusiones: A nivel morfológico-estructural, parecen existir ciertos patrones de crecimiento cerebral diferenciadores entre estos trastornos. Asimismo, existen ciertas señales de alarma en las distintas áreas del desarrollo que son indicativas de comorbilidad o permiten la discriminación entre patologías, y existe cierto debate en torno a algunas de ellas, como el nivel atencional o los manierismos repetitivos.(AU)

Introduction: Nearly 60% of those diagnosed with fragile X syndrome show comorbidity with autism. Thus, there are similarities and differences between both conditions that lead to very different clinical manifestations. However, an early differential diagnosis may help professionals to detect deficits and enhance strengths to apply the best suitable intervention. The purpose of this scoping review was to provide a comprehensive overview of the relation and the differences between autism and fragile X syndrome to orientate diagnosis and intervention. Materials and methods: The research for articles was carried out in PsycInfo, Medline, SCOPUS and Web of Science, including scientific articles published from 2010 to 2020 and children aged 0-6 years. The scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR criteria. Results: 22 studies were selected. Results were reviewed in terms of structural and morphological changes and cognitive, communicative, social-emotional and sensory-motor skills. Conclusions: Different growing cerebral patterns are observed in both conditions. Besides, there are early signs from the different developmental areas studied that show comorbidity or allow early differentiation. However, attentional function or repetitive mannerisms, among others, need further research.(AU)

Biological effects of sodium fluoride varnishes used in remineralisation of enamel: An in vitro study.

AIM: During the last three decades, fluoride varnishes have been recognised as effective strategies for caries prevention in the young-child population and have contributed to a decrease in its prevalence worldwide. The present study aimed to assess in vitro the level of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in human primary pulp fibroblasts (DPFs) of two NaF varnishes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four experimental assays were carried out (MTS, Mitotracker® system [mitochondrial function and morphology], Live/Dead®, and Comet) to assess the morphology, viability, and genotoxicity of two NaF varnishes (Duraphat® and Clinpro White®, both at two different concentrations). The essays were conducted on cultured pulp fibroblasts, grouped in four experimental and two control groups. Collected data were analysed by one-way ANOVA followed by the post hoc Bonferroni test. RESULTS: Some morphological changes of DPFs could be detected after the NaFVs stimulation. Most DPFs incubated in Duraphat (22.6 mg/L) maintained their morphological characteristics, except for a small decrease in cell size and shorter cytoplasmic projections (filopodia); DPFs treated with Clinpro White Varnish (22.6 mg/L) presented a morphology and size similar to the control group. DPFs exposed to Duraphat (113 mg/L) exhibited significant morphological alterations with considerable cell size increases and DPFs treated with Clinpro White Varnish (113 mg/L) showed a slight cell size increase without noticeable morphological anomalies. The Duraphat (22.6 mg/L) and Clinpro White Varnish (22.6 mg/L) groups promoted 31% and 35% cell proliferation, respectively, whereas DPFs proliferation with Duraphat (113 mg/L) decreased up to 59%, and cell proliferation with Clinpro White Varnish (113 mg/L) was similar to that of control. CONCLUSION: All tested varnishes induced changes in the fibroblastic mitochondria. In general, Duraphat was less biocompatible and caused a change in the number of mitochondria compared to Clinpro White Varnish.

An objective tool to measure the effect of botulinum toxin in blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: It is challenging to assess patients with blepharospasm (BSP) and hemifacial spasm (HFS) as these patients exhibit a wide range of amplitudes of eyelid movements. In order to quantify these movements, a mathematical algorithm, i.e. Fast Fourier Transform, can be employed to convert the signal from the time domain to the frequency domain. The result of this quantification represents the energy generated during the eyelid movements. In order to objectively assess the therapeutic effects of botulinum toxin (BoNT) in these patients, we evaluated the energy generated by the upper eyelid during spontaneous eyelid movements before and after treatment. METHODS: A total of 39 patients with BSP and HFS were evaluated before and 30 days after receiving onabotulinum toxin A injections. A high-speed camera and micro light-emitting diodes were used to register the spontaneous eyelid movements. The result of the quantification obtained using Fast Fourier Transform permitted assessment of the activity associated with the eyelid movements. RESULTS: We studied 78 eyelids. The total energy generated during spontaneous eyelid movements was significantly reduced after treatment in the patients with BSP (P = 0.0018) and on the affected side in the patients with HFS (P = 0.0058). CONCLUSIONS: The assessment of the energy generated by the upper eyelid during spontaneous eyelid movements enabled us to measure the therapeutic effects of BoNT in patients with these conditions. The use of this system could enable customized and fine adjustments to BoNT doses based on each patient's needs.

Life History of Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius, 1775) (Diptera, Calliphoridae), a Blowfly of Medical and Forensic Importance.

The life history traits of blow fly Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius, 1775) was studied under semi-controlled laboratory conditions at 29.14°C temperature, 72.53% relative humidity, and 12-h photoperiod. The raw data were analyzed based on the age-stage, two-sex life table, considering the development rates among individuals of both sexes. Cochliomyia macellaria survival rate was 0.43 (♂) and 0.40 (♀), while life expectancy was 17.9 (♂) and 20.9 (♀) days, for adult males and females, respectively. The total fecundity was 681.15 eggs/female, with an average of 3.65 batches/female and 199 eggs/batch. The intrinsic rate of increase (r) was 0.327 days-1, the finite rate of population increase (λ) was 3.35 days-1, the mean generation time (T) was 17.15 days, and the net reproduction rate (R 0 ) was 272.46 offspring/individual. The population parameters found here corroborates that C. macellaria population act as a r selected species under laboratory conditions. Additionally, development data and accumulated degree days (ADD) for each stage of C. macellaria are provided and its implications for the forensic use are discussed.

El peso corporal y su efecto sobre indicadores bioproductivos en gallinas white leghorn l33 / The corporal weight and its effect on bioproductive indicators in white leghorn l33 hens

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto del peso corporal sobre indicadores bioproductivos en gallinas White Leghorn L33. Se estudiaron 192 gallinas ponedoras con 39 semanas de edad durante un período de seis semanas y con tres observaciones semanales. Se diseñaron dos grupos según peso vivo, con 96 gallinas cada uno (tres réplicas de 32 aves), teniendo el grupo 1 entre 1500-1600 g y el grupo 2 entre 1735-1820 g; este último correspondió al rango establecido para este híbrido con esa edad. Además de la viabilidad y mortalidad se determinaron las variables bioproductivas (producción, peso, tamaño, forma y grosor de la cáscara de los huevos), así como la proporción de sucios, manchados y cascados. En la última semana del estudio, se analizó la calidad interna del huevo (dimensión y color de clara y yema) y se calcularon los índices de yema, clara y Unidades Haugh. Se realizó una estadística descriptiva y se utilizaron las pruebas T de Student y Fisher (P < 0,05) para comparar las medias entre grupos. Se evidenciaron diferencias estadísticas significativas entre producción, peso y tamaño de los huevos para el grupo de mayor peso corporal. Asimismo, se comprobó mayor calidad interna del huevo (altura de clara y yema) en este segundo grupo. Sin embargo, no se evidenciaron diferencias significativas en la calidad externa de los huevos (sucios, manchados, cascados), pero sí en el grosor de la cáscara. Se concluye que el peso corporal influye directa y positivamente sobre los indicadores bioproductivos en gallinas White Leghorn L33.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the corporal weight on bioproductive indicators in White Leghorn L33 hens. They were studied 192 egg-laying hens with 39 weeks of age during a period of six weeks and with a frequency of three weekly observations. Two groups according to the alive weight with 96 hens each one (three replies of 32 birds) were designed, having the group 1 (1500-1600 g) and group 2 (17351820 g), and being this last group the established range for this crossbreed with that age. Besides of viability and mortality bioproductive variables (production, weight, size, form and nutshell thickness of the eggs) were determined, as well as the proportion of dirty, stained and cracked eggs. In the last week of study the internal quality (dimension and color of egg white and yolk) was analyzed and the yolk and white index and Haugh Units were calculated. Descriptive statistics was realized and the Student's t and Fisher tests (P < 0.05) were used to compare means between groups. Significant statistical differences among production, weight, and size of eggs for group of bigger corporal weight were evidenced. Likewise, bigger internal quality of the egg (height of the egg white and yolk) in this second group was demonstrated. However, significant differences in the external quality of the eggs (dirty, stained and cracked) were not evidenced, unlike in the nutshell thickness. It is concluded that corporal weight influences direct and positively on bioproductive indicators in White Leghorn L33 hens.

Three-dimensional analysis of jaw kinematic alterations in patients with chronic TMD - disc displacement with reduction.

The study investigated whether chronic TMD patients with disc displacement with reduction (DDR), performing non-assisted maximum jaw movements, presented any changes in their mandibular kinematics with respect to an age-matched control group. Moreover, it was examined whether jaw kinematics and a valid clinic measure of oro-facial functional status have significant associations. Maximum mouth opening, mandible protrusion and bilateral laterotrusions were performed by 20 patients (18 women, 2 men; age, 18-34 years) and 20 healthy controls (17 women, 3 men; age, 20-31 years). The three-dimensional coordinates of their mandibular interincisor and condylar reference points were recorded by means of an optoelectronic motion analyser and were used to quantitatively assess their range of motion, velocity, symmetry and synchrony. Three functional indices (opening-closing, mandibular rototranslation, laterotrusion - right and left - and protrusion) were devised to summarise subject's overall performance, and their correlation with the outcome of a clinical protocol, the oro-facial myofunctional evaluation with scores (OMES), was investigated. TMD patients were able to reach maximum excursions of jaw movements comparable to healthy subjects' performances. However, their opening and closing mandibular movements were characterised by remarkable asynchrony of condylar translation. They had also reduced jaw closing velocity and asymmetric laterotrusions. The functional indices proved to well summarise the global condition of jaw kinematics, highlighting the presence of alterations in TMD-DDR patients, and were linearly correlated with the oro-facial functional status. The jaw kinematic alterations seem to reflect both oro-facial motor behaviour adaptation and a DDR-related articular impairment.

Screening of basidiomycetes in submerged cultivation based on antioxidant activity.

Submerged cultivation of medicinal basidiomycetes is a reproducible and efficient method of producing mycelia and metabolites. The antioxidant activity indicates its medicinal properties and is an important tool for basidiomycete screening. In this study, we analyzed the production of mycelial biomass and exopolysaccharides and the antioxidant activity of basidiomycete strains in submerged cultivation. Twenty-five strains were used for submerged cultivation in extract malt medium, and the production of mycelial biomass and exopolysaccharides was evaluated. Antioxidant activity was determined using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl method. Among the 25 evaluated strains, Lentinus crinitus produced the highest biomass, reaching 1190 ± 52 mg·L(-1)day(-1); Agaricus subrufescens strains had the highest exopolysaccharide production from 18.96 ± 0.15 to 20.97 ± 2.10 mg L(-1)·day(-1). Additionally, A. subrufescens showed the highest total antioxidant activity, reinforcing the therapeutic potential of this basidiomycete. No significant correlation was found between mycelial biomass or exopolysaccharide production and antioxidant activity; however, the results depended on each species and the strains of the same species. We found large variations in the production of mycelial biomass and exopolysaccharides and in antioxidant activity among different species and among strains of the same species. Thus, evaluating the total antioxidant activity is an important tool for identifying strains with biotechnological potential.

Analysis of the recurrence of hepatitis C virus after liver transplantation: results of the Andalusian liver registry.

OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the factors related to recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We undertook a multicenter, prospective, observational study of OLT patients transplanted due to HCV at four Andalusian transplantation centers from 2005 to 2007. Patients were excluded if their survival was less than 1 month. The analysis included 110 pre-, peri-, and posttransplant variables that could affect HCV recurrence. We also examined the influence of cardiovascular risk factors and immunosuppression on HCV. RESULTS: Among 121 HCV patients, 83 (69%) experienced a histologically significant recurrence of HCV, including 13 (16%) who died compared with 5 of 38 (13%) who did not show a severe recurrence of HCV (P = .3). The mean follow-up was 44 months (range, 4 to 64 months). The mean time to appearance of the relapse was 9 months (range, 1 to 40 months) with no differences according to the type of immunosuppression. Of all study variables, donor age (> 52 years) showed a trend for greater recurrence (P = .1). The use of powerful immunosuppression (three or more drugs), either as induction or as sustained therapy, during the first posttransplantation year was significantly associated with a greater relapse rate (P < .01), albeit with no significant difference according to the type of calcineurin inhibitor. Mycophenolate mofetil was not associated with a greater posttransplantation viral load or earlier relapse, although its use in multiple immunosuppression schedules was associated with a greater relapse rate (P < .01). Survival of patients with recurrent HCV was reduced, although not significantly. Multivariate analysis showed a 4.4 times greater risk for developing de novo diabetes mellitus (DM) among patients with a severe relapse of HCV. CONCLUSIONS: There was an important trend toward a greater recurrence rate of HCV among patients who received powerful immunosuppression protocols, particularly during the first 12 months. Special attention should be given to the risk for de novo DM among HCV-positive patients.

Tooth bleaching increases dentinal protease activity.

Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidative agent commonly used for dental bleaching procedures. The structural and biochemical responses of enamel, dentin, and pulp tissues to the in vivo bleaching of human (n = 20) premolars were investigated in this study. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to observe enamel nanostructure. The chemical composition of enamel and dentin was analyzed by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The enzymatic activities of dental cathepsin B and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were monitored with fluorogenic substrates. The amount of collagen in dentin was measured by emission of collagen autofluorescence with confocal fluorescence microscopy. The presence of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the pulp was evaluated with a fluorogenic 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) probe. Vital bleaching of teeth significantly altered all tested parameters: AFM images revealed a corrosion of surface enamel nanostructure; FTIR analysis showed a loss of carbonate and proteins from enamel and dentin, along with an increase in the proteolytic activity of cathepsin-B and MMPs; and there was a reduction in the autofluorescence of collagen and an increase in both cathepsin-B activity and ROS in pulp tissues. Together, these results indicate that 35% hydrogen peroxide used in clinical bleaching protocols dramatically alters the structural and biochemical properties of dental hard and soft pulp tissue.

Testicular testosterone: estradiol ratio in domestic cats and its relationship to spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm morphology.

The phenomenon of teratozoospermia in felids is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the testicular androgen:estrogen balance in domestic cats and correlated these data with epididymal sperm morphology and the degree of spermatogenic activity. During spring and summer, testes and blood samples were obtained from 37 mixed-breed domestic cats (12 to 48 mo). The epididymal sperm were harvested and evaluated for sperm counts, motility, and morphology. Distal cytoplasmic droplets were not considered a defect, and samples were considered normozoospermic if they contained more than 60% normal sperm (N = 25) or teratozoospermic if they contained less than 45% normal sperm (N = 12). The testicular and serum concentrations of testosterone (T) and 17ß-estradiol (E2) were determined with an enzyme immunoassay. The gonadosomatic index and epididymal sperm numbers and motility did not differ between groups. The percentage of normal sperm was higher in normozoospermic (74.3 ± 2.0, mean ± SEM) than in teratozoospermic samples (43.1 ± 1.4). The most prevalent sperm defects in the teratozoospermic group were abnormal acrosomes (9.7 ± 2.0) and bent midpieces (12.2 ± 2.0) or tails (24.0 ± 2.7) with cytoplasmic droplets. Histomorphometric data were similar between groups, although there was a lower Leydig cell nuclear volume in teratozoospermic samples. Normozoospermic samples contained a higher percentage of haploid cells and had a higher index of total spermatogenic transformation than teratozoospermic samples. Serum concentrations of T (0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 0.8 ± 0.4 ng/mL) and E2 (9.5 ± 1.2 vs. 11.4 ± 2.3 pg/mL) and testicular T concentrations (471.6 ± 65.3 vs. 313.4 ± 57.6 ng/g) were similar between groups. However, compared with normozoospermic samples, teratozoospermic samples had higher testicular E2 concentrations (8.5 ± 3.6 vs. 5.4 ± 0.5 ng/g) and a lower T:E2 ratio (31.8 ± 4.1 vs. 87.2 ± 11.6). There were significant correlations between testicular E2 values and percentages of normal sperm (r = -0.55) as well as those with primary sperm defects (r = 0.58) or abnormal acrosomes (r = 0.64). The T:E2 ratio was also correlated with meiotic index (r = 0.45) and percentage of normal sperm (r = 0.58). In conclusion, a high testicular E2 concentration and a reduced T:E2 ratio were significantly associated with higher ratios of abnormal sperm types, suggesting that the balance between androgens and estrogens is an important endocrine component in the genesis of teratozoospermia in felids.

Association of glutathione S-transferase Ω 1-1 polymorphisms (A140D and E208K) with the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß), and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1) in humans chronically exposed to arsenic in drinking water.

Human exposure to arsenicals is associated with inflammatory-related diseases including different kinds of cancer as well as non-cancerous diseases like neuro-degenerative diseases, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Interindividual susceptibility has been mainly addressed by evaluating the role of genetic polymorphism in metabolic enzymes in inorganic arsenic (iAs) metabolism. Glutathione S-transferase omega 1-1 (GSTO1-1), which had been associated with iAs metabolism, is also known to participate in inflammatory and apoptotic cellular responses. The polymorphism A140D of GSTO1-1 has been not only associated with distinct urinary profile of arsenic metabolites in populations chronically exposed to iAs in drinking water, but also with higher risk of childhood leukemia and lung disease in non-exposed populations, suggesting that GSTO1-1 involvement in other physiologic processes different from toxics metabolism could be more relevant than is thought. We evaluated the association of the presence of A140D and E208K polymorphisms of GSTO1-1 gene with the expression of genes codifying for proteins involved in the inflammatory and apoptotic response in a human population chronically exposed to iAs through drinking water. A140D polymorphism was associated with higher expression of genes codifying for IL-8 and Apaf-1 mainly in heterozygous individuals, while E208K was associated with higher expression of IL-8 and TGF- gene, in both cases, the association was independently of iAs exposure level; however, the exposure to iAs increased slightly but significantly the influence of A140D and E208K polymorphisms on such genes expression. These results suggest an important role of GSTO1-1 in the inflammatory response and the apoptotic process and indicate that A140D and E208K polymorphisms could increase the risk of developing inflammatory and apoptosis-related diseases in As-exposed populations.

Cardiovascular risk factors after liver transplantation: analysis of related factors.

AIMS: We sought to analyze the cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in liver transplantation and their relation to immunosuppression and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included all 158 liver transplants performed between January 2005 and December 2008 that had a minimum follow-up of 1 year. There were 104 men (64%) and 54 women (36%). Data were recorded on both the pretransplant prevalence as well as new cases of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperuricemia, defined by the need for drug therapy, after a mean follow-up period of 38 months (range, 12-64). We also examined the influence on CVRF of immunosuppression and HCV. RESULTS: Tacrolimus was prescribed for 61% of the patients and cyclosporine, 39%. Upon univariate analysis only hypertension was significantly associated with the use of cyclosporine (P < .03). There was a trend to a greater incidence of hypercholesterolemia with cyclosporine (P = .1) and DM with tacrolimus (P = .1). The presence of HCV was significantly associated with a greater incidence of de novo DM (P < .01), as was a severe relapse of hepatitis C (P < .03). Multivariate analysis showed a 4.4 times greater risk for developing de novo DM among patients with a severe relapse of HCV. CONCLUSION: The development of CVRF after liver transplantation was manifested, mainly during the first 3 months posttransplantation. Special attention should be given to the risk for de novo DM among HCV positive patients.

Effects of 174 G/C polymorphism in the promoter region of the interleukin-6 gene on plasma IL-6 levels and muscle strength in elderly women

We investigated the effect of -174 G/C single-nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region of the IL6 gene on plasma IL-6 levels and muscle strength, and the relationship between IL-6 levels and muscle strength in elderly women. The sample consisted of 199 elderly residents (73.0 ± 7.8 years old) from rest homes and the community in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. -174 G/C polymorphism was determined by direct sequencing of the product by PCR, and plasma IL-6 concentrations were measured by ELISA. Muscle strength in the knee joint was evaluated using a Biodex System 3 Pro® isokinetic dynamometer. ANCOVA was used to determine the effect of polymorphism on IL-6 levels and muscle strength, and the Pearson correlation coefficient to assess the relationship between IL-6 levels and muscle strength. -174 G/C polymorphism was associated with the plasma IL-6 levels of elderly women (P < 0.01) since homozygotes for the G allele showed high IL-6 levels (GG 3.85 pg/mL, GC + CC 2.13 pg/mL). There was no association of polymorphism on muscle strength (P > 0.05). No association was found between IL-6 levels and knee extensor muscle (r = 0.087, P = 0.306) or flexor (r = -0.011, P = 0.894) strength. An interaction between -174 G/C polymorphism and housing conditions of the sample of elderly women was identified, with the effect of genotype on IL-6 levels being higher in the institutionalized elderly. These results support the evidence that -174 G/C polymorphism of the IL6 gene associates with individual variability of plasma IL-6 levels in elderly women.

Effects of 174 G/C polymorphism in the promoter region of the interleukin-6 gene on plasma IL-6 levels and muscle strength in elderly women.

We investigated the effect of -174 G/C single-nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region of the IL6 gene on plasma IL-6 levels and muscle strength, and the relationship between IL-6 levels and muscle strength in elderly women. The sample consisted of 199 elderly residents (73.0 ± 7.8 years old) from rest homes and the community in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. -174 G/C polymorphism was determined by direct sequencing of the product by PCR, and plasma IL-6 concentrations were measured by ELISA. Muscle strength in the knee joint was evaluated using a Biodex System 3 Pro® isokinetic dynamometer. ANCOVA was used to determine the effect of polymorphism on IL-6 levels and muscle strength, and the Pearson correlation coefficient to assess the relationship between IL-6 levels and muscle strength. -174 G/C polymorphism was associated with the plasma IL-6 levels of elderly women (P < 0.01) since homozygotes for the G allele showed high IL-6 levels (GG 3.85 pg/mL, GC + CC 2.13 pg/mL). There was no association of polymorphism on muscle strength (P > 0.05). No association was found between IL-6 levels and knee extensor muscle (r = 0.087, P = 0.306) or flexor (r = -0.011, P = 0.894) strength. An interaction between -174 G/C polymorphism and housing conditions of the sample of elderly women was identified, with the effect of genotype on IL-6 levels being higher in the institutionalized elderly. These results support the evidence that -174 G/C polymorphism of the IL6 gene associates with individual variability of plasma IL-6 levels in elderly women.

Interstitial pneumonitis associated with sirolimus in liver transplantation: a case report.

Sirolimus is a powerful immunosuppressive drug initially used in kidney transplant patients but now increasingly employed in recipients of other types of solid organ transplants, such as liver, heart, lung, or pancreas. Sirolimus is indicated for rescue therapy and to reduce the toxic side effects of calcineurin inhibitors. However, its use has been associated with an uncommon but important pulmonary toxicity. Reports have described interstitial pneumonitis, bronchiolitis obliterans, organizing pneumonia, and alveolar proteinosis. We present the case of a liver transplant patient with interstitial pneumonitis associated with sirolimus.

Conservation genetics of the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis (Zimmerman, 1780)) (Carnivora, Mustelidae)

The giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is an aquatic mammal of the Mustelidae family, endemic to South America. Its original distribution corresponds to the region from the Guyanas to Central-North Argentina, but it is extinct or on the verge of extinction in most of its historical range. Currently, the species is considered endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). Based on its geographic distribution in the South American continent and on some morphological characters, two subspecies were suggested: P. brasiliensis brasiliensis, occurring in the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins, and P. brasiliensis paranensis, in the Paraná and Paraguai River Basins. However, there is no consensus on assuming this subspecies division and no detailed studies have been carried out to elucidate this question. This study aims to evaluate the genetic diversity and population structure of Pteronura brasiliensis along its range in Brazil to check the possibility of the existence of two distinct subspecies using also a reciprocal monophyly criterion. We analyzed the control region, and the Cytochrome b and Cytochrome c Oxidase subunit I genes of the mitochondrial DNA in several giant otter populations from the Amazon and Paraguai River Basins. Analyses have indicated some degree of geographic correlation and a high level of inter-population divergence, although the subspecies division is not highly supported. As we observed strong population structure, we cannot rule out the existence of further divisions shaping the species distribution. The results suggest that a more complex population structure occurs in P. brasiliensis, and the conservation practice should concentrate on preserving all remaining local populations.

A ariranha (Pteronura brasiliensis) é um mamífero aquático da família Mustelidae, endêmico da América do Sul. Sua distribuição original se estendia desde as Guianas até o centro-norte da Argentina, mas está extinta ou à beira da extinção na maior parte de sua distribuição histórica. Atualmente a espécie é considerada como ameaçada de extinção pela World Conservation Union (IUCN). Em função de sua distribuição no continente sul-americano e de algumas características morfológicas, duas subespécies foram sugeridas: P. brasiliensis brasiliensis, com ocorrência nas bacias do Amazonas e Orinoco, e P. brasiliensis paranensis, ocorrendo nas bacias dos Rios Paraná e Paraguai. Inexiste, contudo, um consenso sobre a validade da divisão em subespécies e nenhum estudo detalhado foi realizado para elucidar esta questão. Este trabalho tem o objetivo de avaliar a diversidade genética e a estrutura populacional de P. brasiliensis ao longo de sua distribuição no Brasil para verificar a existência de duas subespécies baseando-se também em um critério de monofilia recíproca. A região controle e os genes do Citocromo b e da Subunidade I da Citocromo c Oxidase do DNA mitocondrial foram analisados em diversas populações de ariranha que ocorrem nas bacias dos rios Amazonas e Paraguai. As análises indicaram um grau moderado de correlação geográfica e um alto nível de divergência inter-populacional, embora a divisão em subespécies não seja bem sustentada. Como uma forte estruturação populacional foi observada, não é possível descartar a existência de outras subdivisões nesta espécie. Os resultados indicam a presença de uma estrutura populacional mais complexa em P. brasiliensis, o que implica que medidas de conservação deveriam concentrar seus esforços preservando todas as populações locais remanescentes.