Measuring the viscoelastic relaxation function of cells with a time-dependent interpretation of the Hertz-Sneddon indentation model.

The Hertz-Sneddon elastic indentation model is widely adopted in the biomechanical investigation of living cells and other soft materials using atomic force microscopy despite the explicit viscoelastic nature of these materials. In this work, we demonstrate that an exact analytical viscoelastic force model for power-law materials, can be interpreted as a time-dependent Hertz-Sneddon-like model. Characterizing fibroblasts (L929) and osteoblasts (OFCOLII) demonstrates the model's accuracy. Our results show that the difference between Young's modulus EY obtained by fitting force curves with the Hertz-Sneddon model and the effective Young's modulus derived from the viscoelastic force model is less than 3%, even when cells are probed at large forces where nonlinear deformation effects become significant. We also propose a measurement protocol that involves probing samples at different indentation speeds and forces, enabling the construction of the average viscoelastic relaxation function of samples by conveniently fitting the force curves with the Hertz-Sneddon model.

Forage peanut legume as a strategy for improving beef production without increasing livestock greenhouse gas emissions.

The transformation of pastures from a degraded state to sustainable productivity is a major challenge in tropical livestock production. Stoloniferous forage legumes such as Arachis pintoi (forage peanut) are one of the most promising alternatives for intensifying pasture-based beef livestock operations with reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This 2-year study assessed beef cattle performance, nutrient intake and digestibility, and balance of GHG emissions in three pasture types (PT): (1) mixed Palisade grass - Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster (syn. Brachiaria brizantha Stapf cv. Marandu) and forage peanut (A. pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. BRS Mandobi) pastures (Mixed), (2) monoculture Palisade grass pastures with 150 kg of N/ha per year (Fertilised), and (3) monoculture Palisade grass without N fertiliser (Control). Continuous stocking with a variable stocking rate was used in a randomised complete block design, with four replicates per treatment. The average daily gain and carcass gain were not influenced by the PT (P = 0.439 and P = 0.100, respectively) and were, on average, 0.433 kg/animal per day and 83.4 kg/animal, respectively. Fertilised and Mixed pastures increased by 102 and 31.5%, respectively, the liveweight gain per area (kg/ha/yr) compared to the Control pasture (P < 0.001). The heifers in the Mixed pasture had lower CH4 emissions (g/animal per day; P = 0.009), achieving a reduction of 12.6 and 10.1% when compared to the Fertilised and Control pastures, respectively. Annual (N2O) emissions (g/animal) and per kg carcass weight gain were 59.8 and 63.1% lower, respectively, in the Mixed pasture compared to the Fertilised pasture (P < 0.001). Mixed pasture mitigated approximately 23% of kg CO2eq/kg of carcass when substituting 150 kg of N/ha per year via fertiliser. Mixed pastures with forage peanut are a promising solution to recover degraded tropical pastures by providing increased animal production with lower GHG emissions.

Epidemiologia da anafilaxia no Brasil: Registro Brasileiro de Anafilaxia (RBA) da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia (ASBAI) / Epidemiology of anaphylaxis in Brazil: The Brazilian Registry of Anaphylaxis (RBA) of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology (ASBAI)

INTRODUÇÃO: A anafilaxia é uma reação alérgica multissistêmica grave, de início agudo e potencialmente fatal. Poucos são os dados sobre sua epidemiologia no Brasil. O Registro Brasileiro de Anafilaxia da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia (RBAASBAI) teve como objetivo ampliar o conhecimento sobre anafilaxia em indivíduos brasileiros. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional transversal com questionário online sobre dados demográficos, desencadeantes suspeitos, manifestações clínicas, atendimento durante a reação, investigação diagnóstica e aconselhamento após a reação de pacientes que experimentaram uma reação anafilática. RESULTADOS: Entre junho/2021 e abril/2023, foram incluídos 237 pacientes (131 femininos): 99 crianças/adolescentes; 127 adultos e 11 idosos. Houve predomínio de meninos entre crianças/adolescentes (55,5%), e de mulheres entre os adultos (64,5%), e mediana de idade de 22 anos (< 1 a 77 anos). As manifestações cutâneas (92,8%) foram as mais frequentes, seguidas pelas respiratórias (70,1%), gastrointestinais (52,3%), neurológicas (36,3%) e cardiovasculares (35,3%). Os principais desencadeantes foram: alimentos (43,0%), medicamentos (26,2%), himenópteros (21,6%) e látex (2,5%); os alimentos entre crianças (leite, ovo, amendoim/castanhas), e os fármacos (anti-inflamatórios e antibióticos) entre os adultos. Quanto ao tratamento, 61,1% recebeu adrenalina (52,7% por profissional e 8,4% via autoinjetor de adrenalina -AIA). Uma adolescente (12 anos) faleceu após picada de abelha. A maioria recebeu plano escrito de emergência (78,1%) e foi ensinada a usar o AIA (70%). CONCLUSÃO: Os alimentos foram os desencadeantes mais comuns entre crianças/adolescentes, e os fármacos entre adultos brasileiros. A adrenalina continua sendo subutilizada, reforçando a necessidade de maior disseminação do tratamento adequado da anafilaxia.

INTRODUCTION: Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening, acute, severe multisystem allergic reaction.There is little data on its epidemiology in Brazil. The Brazilian Anaphylaxis Registry of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology (RBA-ASBAI) was devised to expand knowledge about anaphylaxis in Brazilian individuals. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study using an online questionnaire to collect data on demographics, suspected triggers, clinical manifestations, treatment during the reaction, diagnostic workup, and post-reaction counseling in patients who have experienced an anaphylactic reaction. RESULTS: Between June 2021 and April 2023, 237 patients were included (131 female): 99 children/adolescents (<18yo), 127 adults (18-64yo), and 11 older adults (65-77yo). There was a male predominance in the pediatric group (55.5%), while females were predominant among adults (64.5%). The median age was 22 years (range, <1 to 77). The most frequent clinical manifestations were cutaneous (92.8%), followed by respiratory (70.1%), gastrointestinal (52.3%), neurological (36.3%), and cardiovascular (35.3%). The most common triggers were foods (43.0%), drugs (26.2%), venoms (21.6%), and latex (2.5%). Foods (milk, egg, peanuts/tree nuts) predominated among children, versus drugs (mostly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics) among adults. Regarding treatment, 61.1% received epinephrine (52.7% by a healthcare professional and 8.4% via epinephrine auto-injector [EAI]). One teenager (12yo) died due to a bee sting. Most patients received a written emergency plan (78.1%) and were taught how to use the EAI (70%). CONCLUSION: Foods were the most common triggers of anaphylaxis among Brazilian children and adolescents, while drugs predominated among adults. Epinephrine continues to be underused, highlighting the need for greater awareness of proper treatment of anaphylaxis.

Assessment of dosimetric sensitivity enhancement of xylenol orange Fricke gel by AuNPs: optical and MR imaging investigation.

Metallic nanoparticles, such as gold (Au, Z = 79) and silver (Ag, Z = 47) nanoparticles (AuNPs and AgNPs, respectively), possess strong surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) and high atomic number, which makes them ideal candidates for enhancing dosimeter sensitivity. In this study, we have inserted different mass percentages (from 0 to 0.015 wt%) of AuNPs into a gelatinous Fricke-xylenol-orange (FXO-f) gel matrix and irradiated it with doses ranging from 2 to 32 Gy, using a source of x-ray of low energy with an effective energy of 42 keV. Optical absorption increased significantly; sensitivity gains of up to 50% were achieved for the FXO-f gel matrix containing 0.011 wt% AuNPs. To elucidate the mechanism underlying this increased sensitivity, we also evaluated FXO-f gel matrixes containing AgNPs. AgNPs insertion into the FXO-f gel matrix did not enhance sensitivity, which suggested that the AgNPs plasmonic absorption band and the FXO-f gel matrix absorption band at 441 nm overlapped, to increase absorption even after the gel matrix was irradiated. To visualize the dose distribution, we recorded optical tomography and acquired 3D reconstruction maps. In addition, we analyzed the dose enhancement factor (DEF) by using magnetic resonance images. AuNPs insertion into the FXO-f gel matrix resulted in a DEF gain of 1.37, associated with the photoelectric effect originating from the increased number of free radicals.

Gill and hepatic histological alterations in Sciades herzbergii resulting from trace element contamination in the Port of São Luiz, Brazil.

The objective of this study was to evaluate, through changes in the gills and livers of Sciades herzbergii, the environmental contamination to which estuarine organisms are exposed in two areas in São Marcos Bay - MA. Two collection areas located in São Marcos Bay were selected for this study: A1, an area close to the Port Complex, and A2, an area on Caranguejos Island (included in the Environmental Protection Area of Baixada Maranhense). Collections were carried out during rainy and dry periods. Sediments (for trace element analyses), surface water (for physico-chemical analyses), and specimens of S. herzbergii (for biometric measurements and identification of branchial and hepatic histopathology) were collected. Physico-chemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity) were within limits established by Brazilian legislation. Arsenic (in A1) and nickel (in A1 and A2) were above the legal standards in both periods. The highest percentage of histological alterations in the gills (aneurysms, lamellar fusion and detachment of the epithelium) occurred in the port area, in the rainy (93%) and dry (74%) periods. Liver alterations (melanomacrophage centers and necrosis) occurred only in specimens from the same area, in the rainy (41%) and dry (36%) periods. The highest histological indices of gill and liver changes were recorded in A1. This result was further supported by the total HI value of the lesions, which was higher in the port area compared to A2 (less impacted area), suggesting that the environmental conditions in that location are less favorable for the well-being of these organisms. Permanent environmental monitoring of the area is necessary to control environmental impacts efficiently.

Interplay of self, epiphany, and positive actions in shaping individual careers.

In this work, we model an individual social career by a finite-size trajectory along a hexagonal lattice moving only forward. At each bifurcation, the individual makes a free-will choice to follow one or the other branch within an uncertain outcome. Considering that those choices are determined by an individual self built from endogenous characteristics, we assume they are random following a binomial distribution. As a result, the individual ascends or descends on the social scale via random progress through the series of bifurcations made at the encountered junctions. The related stochastic process is found to be diffusive. For different selves coming from different points on the social scale, progress does overlap. In addition, we include the possibility of continuous transition across the lattice caused external influences as an epiphany. The occurrence of a quantum leap resulting from an affirmative action opportunity is also included. We also treat the case of a social group being acted by a collective epiphany as with education. The results highlight the key effect of epiphanies and quantum leaps to promote upward mobility across social classes.

Gill and hepatic histological alterations in Sciades herzbergii resulting from trace element contamination in the Port of São Luiz, Brazil / Alterações histológicas branquiais e hepáticas em Sciades herzbergii resultantes da contaminação por elementos traços no Porto de São Luís, Brasil

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate, through changes in the gills and livers of Sciades herzbergii, the environmental contamination to which estuarine organisms are exposed in two areas in São Marcos Bay - MA. Two collection areas located in São Marcos Bay were selected for this study: A1, an area close to the Port Complex, and A2, an area on Caranguejos Island (included in the Environmental Protection Area of Baixada Maranhense). Collections were carried out during rainy and dry periods. Sediments (for trace element analyses), surface water (for physico-chemical analyses), and specimens of S. herzbergii (for biometric measurements and identification of branchial and hepatic histopathology) were collected. Physico-chemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity) were within limits established by Brazilian legislation. Arsenic (in A1) and nickel (in A1 and A2) were above the legal standards in both periods. The highest percentage of histological alterations in the gills (aneurysms, lamellar fusion and detachment of the epithelium) occurred in the port area, in the rainy (93%) and dry (74%) periods. Liver alterations (melanomacrophage centers and necrosis) occurred only in specimens from the same area, in the rainy (41%) and dry (36%) periods. The highest histological indices of gill and liver changes were recorded in A1. This result was further supported by the total HI value of the lesions, which was higher in the port area compared to A2 (less impacted area), suggesting that the environmental conditions in that location are less favorable for the well-being of these organisms. Permanent environmental monitoring of the area is necessary to control environmental impacts efficiently.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, por meio de alterações nas brânquias e fígados de Sciades herzbergii, a contaminação ambiental a que os organismos estuarinos estão expostos em duas áreas da Baía de São Marcos - MA. Para este estudo foram selecionadas duas áreas de coleta localizadas na Baía de São Marcos: A1, área próxima ao Complexo Portuário, e A2, área na Ilha dos Caranguejos (incluída na Área de Proteção Ambiental da Baixada Maranhense). As coletas foram realizadas nos períodos chuvoso e seco. Foram coletados sedimentos (para análises de elementos traço), águas superficiais (para análises físico-químicas) e espécimes de S. herzbergii (para medidas biométricas e identificação de histopatologia branquial e hepática). Os parâmetros físico-químicos (pH, oxigênio dissolvido, temperatura e salinidade) estiveram dentro dos limites estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira. Arsênio (em A1) e níquel (em A1 e A2) estiveram acima dos padrões legais em ambos os períodos. A maior porcentagem de alterações histológicas nas brânquias (aneurismas, fusão lamelar e descolamento do epítélio) ocorreu na área portuária, nos períodos chuvoso (93%) e seco (74%). As alterações hepáticas (centros de melanomacrófagos e necrose) ocorreram apenas nos espécimes dessa mesma área, nos períodos chuvoso (41%) e seco (36%). Os maiores índices histológicos de alterações branquiais e hepáticas foram registrados em A1. Esse resultado foi ainda corroborado pelo valor de IH total das lesões, que foi maior na área portuária em comparação com A2 (área menos impactada), sugerindo que as condições ambientais naquele local são menos favoráveis ao bem-estar desses organismos. O monitoramento ambiental permanente da área é necessário para controlar os impactos ambientais de forma eficiente.

Risk factors for oral mucositis during chemotherapy treatment for solid tumors: a retrospective STROBE-guided study.

BACKGROUND: This study retrospectively analyzed the risk factors for transchemotherapy oral mucositis (OM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Before each chemotherapy cycle, patients were routinely evaluated for the presence/severity of OM based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v5.0 scale for adverse effects and graded as follows: However, specific conditions such as mucositis are graded on a five-point scale: 0, absence of mucositis, grade 1 (Asymptomatic or mild), 2 (Presence of pain and moderate ulceration, without interference with food intake), 3 (severe pain with interference with food intake) or 4 (Life-threatening with the need for urgent intervention). Information from 2 years of evaluations was collected and patient medical records were reviewed to obtain data on chemotherapy cycle, sex, age, body mass index, body surface area, primary tumor, chemotherapy protocol, and history of head and neck radiotherapy. The X² test and multinomial logistic regression were used for statistical analysis (SPSS 20.0, p<0.05). RESULTS: Among 19,000 total evaluations of 3,529 patients during 5.32±4.7 chemotherapy cycles (CT) the prevalence of OM was 6.3% (n=1,195). Chemotherapy duration (p<0.001), female sex (p=0.001), adjuvant intention (p=0.008) and the use of carboplatin (p=0.001), cisplatin (p=0.029), docetaxel (p<0.001) and bevacizumab (p=0.026) independently increased the risk of mucositis. In head and neck tumors, 2018 year (p=0.017), chemotherapy duration (p=0.018), BMI>30 (p=0.008), radiotherapy (p=0.037) and use of carboplatin (p=0.046) and cyclophosphamide (p=0.010) increased this prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: Cycles of chemotherapy, sex, cytotoxicity drugs, bevacizumab and head and neck radiotherapy increase the risk of OM in solid tumors.

Efeito da somatotropina bovina recombinante (rbST) na produção in vivo e na maturação in vitro de oócitos bovinos da raça Sindi / Effect of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) on the in vivo production and in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes of the Sindi breed

A fim de avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses da rbST sobre a dinâmica folicular, a produção e a maturação in vitro de oócitos, 20 vacas Sindi, divididas em três grupos, receberam um dispositivo de progesterona intravaginal, estradiol e PGF2α, além de 2mL de solução salina (grupo controle), 250 (grupo rbST 250) ou 500mg de rbST (grupo rbST 500). Cinco dias depois, realizou-se a ovum pick up, e os complexos cumulus-oócitos (CCOs) recuperados foram selecionados, classificados e maturados in vitro. Os dados de contagem foram comparados pelo procedimento glht (General Linear Hypothesis Test), e os dados em porcentagem foram submetidos ao qui-quadrado, no programa estatístico R, onde as diferenças foram consideradas significativas quando P<0,05. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) entre os grupos quanto à quantidade de folículos e à taxa de maturação. Os grupos rbST 250 e rbST 500 foram significativamente superiores (P<0,05) ao grupo controle em relação ao número de folículos grandes (0,42±0,20 vs. 0). O grupo rbST 500 apresentou maior (P<0,05) porcentagem de oócitos viáveis (91,52%) do que os grupos controle (67,85%) e rbST 250 (53,33%). A rbST aumenta o número de folículos grandes, e 500mg de rbST aumentam a porcentagem de oócitos viáveis em vacas Sindi.(AU)

In order to evaluate the effect of different doses of rbST on the follicular dynamics, production, and in vitro maturation of oocytes, 20 Sindhi cows were divided into three groups, receiving an intravaginal progesterone device, estradiol and PGF2α, and 2mL of solution saline (Control Group), 250 (rbST 250 Group) or 500mg rbST (rbST 500 Group). Five days later, the ovum pick up was performed, and the cumulus-oocyte (CCO) complexes recovered were selected, classified, and matured in vitro. The counting data were compared by the glht (General Linear Hypothesis Test) procedure, and the percentage data were submitted to Qui- square, in the statistical program R, where differences were considered significant when P< 0.05. There was no difference (P> 0.05) between the groups regarding follicle quantity and maturation rate. The rbST 250 and rbST 500 groups were significantly higher (P< 0.05) than the Control group in relation to the number of large follicles (0.42±0.20 versus 0). The rbST 500 group presented higher (P< 0.05) percentage of viable oocytes (91.52%) than the Control (67.85%) and rbST 250 (53.33%) groups. rbST increases the number of large follicles and 500mg rbST increases the percentage of viable oocytes in Sindhi cows.(AU)

Efeito da somatotropina bovina recombinante (rbST) na produção in vivo e na maturação in vitro de oócitos bovinos da raça Sindi / Effect of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) on the in vivo production and in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes of the Sindi breed

A fim de avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses da rbST sobre a dinâmica folicular, a produção e a maturação in vitro de oócitos, 20 vacas Sindi, divididas em três grupos, receberam um dispositivo de progesterona intravaginal, estradiol e PGF2α, além de 2mL de solução salina (grupo controle), 250 (grupo rbST 250) ou 500mg de rbST (grupo rbST 500). Cinco dias depois, realizou-se a ovum pick up, e os complexos cumulus-oócitos (CCOs) recuperados foram selecionados, classificados e maturados in vitro. Os dados de contagem foram comparados pelo procedimento glht (General Linear Hypothesis Test), e os dados em porcentagem foram submetidos ao qui-quadrado, no programa estatístico R, onde as diferenças foram consideradas significativas quando P<0,05. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) entre os grupos quanto à quantidade de folículos e à taxa de maturação. Os grupos rbST 250 e rbST 500 foram significativamente superiores (P<0,05) ao grupo controle em relação ao número de folículos grandes (0,42±0,20 vs. 0). O grupo rbST 500 apresentou maior (P<0,05) porcentagem de oócitos viáveis (91,52%) do que os grupos controle (67,85%) e rbST 250 (53,33%). A rbST aumenta o número de folículos grandes, e 500mg de rbST aumentam a porcentagem de oócitos viáveis em vacas Sindi.(AU)

In order to evaluate the effect of different doses of rbST on the follicular dynamics, production, and in vitro maturation of oocytes, 20 Sindhi cows were divided into three groups, receiving an intravaginal progesterone device, estradiol and PGF2α, and 2mL of solution saline (Control Group), 250 (rbST 250 Group) or 500mg rbST (rbST 500 Group). Five days later, the ovum pick up was performed, and the cumulus-oocyte (CCO) complexes recovered were selected, classified, and matured in vitro. The counting data were compared by the glht (General Linear Hypothesis Test) procedure, and the percentage data were submitted to Qui- square, in the statistical program R, where differences were considered significant when P< 0.05. There was no difference (P> 0.05) between the groups regarding follicle quantity and maturation rate. The rbST 250 and rbST 500 groups were significantly higher (P< 0.05) than the Control group in relation to the number of large follicles (0.42±0.20 versus 0). The rbST 500 group presented higher (P< 0.05) percentage of viable oocytes (91.52%) than the Control (67.85%) and rbST 250 (53.33%) groups. rbST increases the number of large follicles and 500mg rbST increases the percentage of viable oocytes in Sindhi cows.(AU)

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with cortical bone loss and fractures in the elderly.

INTRODUCTION: The role of vitamin D on bone microarchitecture and fragility is not clear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <20 ng/mL) increases cortical bone loss and the severity of fractures. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study of 287 elderly women with at least one prevalent low-impact fracture. METHODS: Biochemistry, X-rays to identify vertebral fractures (VFs) and to confirm non-vertebral fractures (NonVFs), and high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to evaluate bone microstructure. RESULTS: Serum 25(OH)D levels were associated with body mass index (BMI: r = -0.161, P = 0.006), PTH (r = -0.165; P = 0.005), CTX (r = -0.119; P = 0.043) and vBMD at cortical bone (Dcomp: r = 0.132; P = 0.033) and entire bone (D100: r = 0.162 P = 0.009) at the distal radius, but not at the tibia. Age and PTH levels were potential confounding variables, but in the multiple linear regressions only BMI (95% CI: 0.11-4.16; P < 0.01), 25(OH)D (95% CI: -0.007 to 1.70; P = 0.05) and CTX (95% CI: -149.04 to 21.80; P < 0.01) predicted Dcomp, while BMI (95% CI: 1.13-4.18; P < 0.01) and 25(OH)D (95% CI: 0.24-1.52; P < 0.01) predicted D100. NonVFs predominated in patients with 25(OH)D <20 ng/mL (P = 0.013). Logistic regression analysis showed a decrease in the likelihood of presenting grade 2-3 VFs/NonVFs for every increase in 25(OH)D (OR = 0.962, 95% CI: 0.940-0.984; P = 0.001), BMI (OR = 0.932, 95% CI: 0.885-0.981; P = 0.007) and D100 at radius (OR = 0.994, 95% CI: 0.990-0.998; P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: In elderly patients with prevalent fractures, vitamin D deficiency was associated with cortical bone loss and severity of fractures.

Thrips species (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with flowers in a restinga fragment in northeastern Brazil / Espécies de tripes (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associadas a flores em um fragmento de restinga no nordeste brasileiro

Abstract With the growing volume of research involving Thysanoptera in Brazil, studies were carried out to improve our understanding of the diversity of thrips in areas where the fauna has historically been neglected. Accordingly, we recorded the diversity of thrips (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with a restinga fragment located on the campus of the State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Ceará state, and computed the estimated richness and diversity indices. Samples were collected from 2011 through 2013 from flowers of 86 plant species. The material was taken to the Laboratory of Insect-Plant Interaction, where thrips were screened under stereomicroscope. We collected 456 adults and 58 immatures, representing 14 species, in addition to one unidentified species of Treherniella. Microcephalothrips abdominalis was found on a large number of host plants, and Frankliniella insularis was the most common species. About two-thirds of the total richness of thrips species was associated with three plant families (Amaranthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Poaceae); six thrips species were each associated with only one plant species. The richness of the species collected was close to that estimated by Bootstrap and Jackknife 1 analysis. The Shannon-Wiener (H') and Simpson (D) diversity indexes were 1,7607 and 0.7769, respectively. Although the species are common, 46 new associations between plant species and thrips were established, 13 of which are true host associations, which demonstrates the importance of coastal vegetation in maintaining populations of thrips.

Resumo Com o crescente volume de pesquisas envolvendo Thysanoptera no Brasil, estudos foram promovidos para melhorar nosso entendimento da diversidade de tripes em área onde a fauna tem sido historicamente negligenciada. Dessa maneira, neste trabalho registramos a diversidade de tripes (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associada a um fragmento de restinga localizado no Campus da Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), município de Fortaleza, estado do Ceará, e computamos a riqueza estimada de espécies e índices de diversidade. Foram realizadas coletas entre os anos de 2011 a 2013 em flores de 86 espécies vegetais. O material foi levado ao Laboratório de Interação Inseto-Planta (UECE) onde os tripes foram triados manualmente sob estereomicroscópio. Foram coletados 456 tripes adultos e 58 imaturos, representando 14 espécies, além de uma espécie não identificada de Treherniella. Microcephalothrips abdominalis foi encontrado em um maior número de plantas hospedeiras, e Frankliniella insularis foi a espécie mais frequente. Cerca de dois-terços da riqueza total de espécies de tripés está associada a três famílias botânicas (Amarnthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae e Poaceae); seis espécies de tripes foram encontradas em associação com somente uma espécie vegetal. A riqueza de espécies coletada foi próxima daquela estimada pelas análises Bootstrap e Jackknife 1. Os índices de diversidade de Shannon-Wiener (H') e Simpson (D) foram 1.7607 e 0,7769, respectivamente. Embora as espécies identificadas sejam comuns, 46 novas associações entre tripes e espécies vegetais foram constatadas, 13 das quais são associações hospedeiras verdadeiras, o que demonstra a importância da vegetação costeira na manutenção das populações de tripes.

Thrips species (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with flowers in a restinga fragment in northeastern Brazil.

With the growing volume of research involving Thysanoptera in Brazil, studies were carried out to improve our understanding of the diversity of thrips in areas where the fauna has historically been neglected. Accordingly, we recorded the diversity of thrips (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with a restinga fragment located on the campus of the State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Ceará state, and computed the estimated richness and diversity indices. Samples were collected from 2011 through 2013 from flowers of 86 plant species. The material was taken to the Laboratory of Insect-Plant Interaction, where thrips were screened under stereomicroscope. We collected 456 adults and 58 immatures, representing 14 species, in addition to one unidentified species of Treherniella. Microcephalothrips abdominalis was found on a large number of host plants, and Frankliniella insularis was the most common species. About two-thirds of the total richness of thrips species was associated with three plant families (Amaranthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Poaceae); six thrips species were each associated with only one plant species. The richness of the species collected was close to that estimated by Bootstrap and Jackknife 1 analysis. The Shannon-Wiener (H') and Simpson (D) diversity indexes were 1,7607 and 0.7769, respectively. Although the species are common, 46 new associations between plant species and thrips were established, 13 of which are true host associations, which demonstrates the importance of coastal vegetation in maintaining populations of thrips.

Thrips species (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with flowers in a restinga fragment in northeastern Brazil / Espécies de tripes (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associadas a flores em um fragmento de restinga no nordeste brasileiro

With the growing volume of research involving Thysanoptera in Brazil, studies were carried out to improve our understanding of the diversity of thrips in areas where the fauna has historically been neglected. Accordingly, we recorded the diversity of thrips (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated with a restinga fragment located on the campus of the State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Ceará state, and computed the estimated richness and diversity indices. Samples were collected from 2011 through 2013 from flowers of 86 plant species. The material was taken to the Laboratory of Insect-Plant Interaction, where thrips were screened under stereomicroscope. We collected 456 adults and 58 immatures, representing 14 species, in addition to one unidentified species of Treherniella. Microcephalothrips abdominalis was found on a large number of host plants, and Frankliniella insularis was the most common species. About two-thirds of the total richness of thrips species was associated with three plant families (Amaranthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Poaceae); six thrips species were each associated with only one plant species. The richness of the species collected was close to that estimated by Bootstrap and Jackknife 1 analysis. The Shannon-Wiener (H) and Simpson (D) diversity indexes were 1,7607 and 0.7769, respectively. Although the species are common, 46 new associations between plant species and thrips were established, 13 of which are true host associations, which demonstrates the importance of coastal vegetation in maintaining populations of thrips.(AU)

Com o crescente volume de pesquisas envolvendo Thysanoptera no Brasil, estudos foram promovidos para melhorar nosso entendimento da diversidade de tripes em área onde a fauna tem sido historicamente negligenciada. Dessa maneira, neste trabalho registramos a diversidade de tripes (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associada a um fragmento de restinga localizado no Campus da Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), município de Fortaleza, estado do Ceará, e computamos a riqueza estimada de espécies e índices de diversidade. Foram realizadas coletas entre os anos de 2011 a 2013 em flores de 86 espécies vegetais. O material foi levado ao Laboratório de Interação Inseto-Planta (UECE) onde os tripes foram triados manualmente sob estereomicroscópio. Foram coletados 456 tripes adultos e 58 imaturos, representando 14 espécies, além de uma espécie não identificada de Treherniella. Microcephalothrips abdominalis foi encontrado em um maior número de plantas hospedeiras, e Frankliniella insularis foi a espécie mais frequente. Cerca de dois-terços da riqueza total de espécies de tripés está associada a três famílias botânicas (Amarnthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae e Poaceae); seis espécies de tripes foram encontradas em associação com somente uma espécie vegetal. A riqueza de espécies coletada foi próxima daquela estimada pelas análises Bootstrap e Jackknife 1. Os índices de diversidade de Shannon-Wiener (H) e Simpson (D) foram 1.7607 e 0,7769, respectivamente. Embora as espécies identificadas sejam comuns, 46 novas associações entre tripes e espécies vegetais foram constatadas, 13 das quais são associações hospedeiras verdadeiras, o que demonstra a importância da vegetação costeira na manutenção das populações de tripes.(AU)

Intestinal cell migration damage induced by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains.

Epithelial cell migration is an essential response to enteric pathogens such as enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC). This study aimed to investigate the effects of EPEC infection on intestinal epithelial cell migration in vitro, as well as the involvement of type III secretion system (T3SS) and Rho GTPases. Crypt intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6) were infected with EPEC strains (E2348/69, ΔescF, and the LDI001 strain isolated from a malnourished Brazilian child) and commensal E. coli HS. Wound migration and cell death assays were performed at different time-points. Transcription and expression of Rho GTPases were evaluated using real-time PCR and western blotting. Overall, EPEC E2348/69 reduced migration and increased apoptosis and necrosis levels compared to EPEC LDI001 and E. coli HS strains. Moreover, EPEC LDI001 impaired cell migration at a higher level than E. coli HS and increased necrosis after 24 hours compared to the control group. The different profiles of virulence genes between the two wild-type EPEC strains, characterized by the absence of espL and nleE genes in the LDI001, might explain the phenotypic results, playing significant roles on cell migration impairment and cell death-related events. Moreover, the type III secretion system is determinant for the inhibition of intestinal epithelial cell migration by EPEC 2348/69, as its deletion prevented the effect. Active Rac1 concentrations were increased in E2348/69 and LDI001-infected cells, while the T3SS-deficient strain did not demonstrate this activation. This study contributes with valuable insight to characterize the mechanisms involved in the impairment of intestinal cell migration induced by EPEC.

Association of Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease with Inadequacy of Liver Store of Retinol in Elderly Individuals.

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin A antioxidant role has an important relationship with the metabolic processes of aging and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed at assessing the liver store of retinol in elderly individuals who died from cardiovascular disease and its relationship with liver weight and body weight. METHODS AND RESULTS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in necropsied individuals, aged 60 years or over, until 48 hours postmortem. The study assessed 65 elderly individuals who died from ischemic heart diseases (G1), cerebrovascular diseases (G2), other forms of heart disease (G3), or infectious heart diseases (G4). Twenty percent had inadequate liver store of retinol. G1 showed lower median of liver store of retinol when compared to G3 (p < 0.001), and G3 showed the highest median when compared to G2 (p = 0.007). A significant association was observed between inadequate liver store of retinol and death by ischemic CVD (G1) (p = 0.001) with an odds ratio of 10.38. It was observed that individuals with higher body weight and liver weight showed lower liver store of retinol with significant differences (p = 0.027 and p = 0.026). CONCLUSION: Ischemic CVD and increased body weight and liver weight are related to a greater impairment of the liver store of retinol.

Seasonality and within-subject clustering of rotavirus infections in an eight-site birth cohort study.

Improving understanding of the pathogen-specific seasonality of enteric infections is critical to informing policy on the timing of preventive measures and to forecast trends in the burden of diarrhoeal disease. Data obtained from active surveillance of cohorts can capture the underlying infection status as transmission occurs in the community. The purpose of this study was to characterise rotavirus seasonality in eight different locations while adjusting for age, calendar time and within-subject clustering of episodes by applying an adapted Serfling model approach to data from a multi-site cohort study. In the Bangladesh and Peru sites, within-subject clustering was high, with more than half of infants who experienced one rotavirus infection going on to experience a second and more than 20% experiencing a third. In the five sites that are in countries that had not introduced the rotavirus vaccine, the model predicted a primary peak in prevalence during the dry season and, in three of these, a secondary peak during the rainy season. The patterns predicted by this approach are broadly congruent with several emerging hypotheses about rotavirus transmission and are consistent for both symptomatic and asymptomatic rotavirus episodes. These findings have practical implications for programme design, but caution should be exercised in deriving inferences about the underlying pathways driving these trends, particularly when extending the approach to other pathogens.