Effect of Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima on Cadmium-Chloride-Induced Alterations in Sexual Behavior and Fertility in Male Wistar Rats.

Chronic exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as cadmium (Cd) leads to male reproductive toxicity through the generation of oxidative stress. Spirulina Arthrospira maxima (AM) is a cyanobacterium that has been consumed since ancient times for its high nutritional value, and in recent years for its antiviral, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, anticancer, and antioxidant effects, among others. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of AM against the damage to reproductive health induced by Cd. A total of 48 10-week-old sexually experienced male Wistar rats were distributed in five groups (n = 8): control; vehicle (tween-water); cadmium chloride (CdCl2) 5 mg/kg; and three doses of AM (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) + CdCl2 5 mg/kg. All treatments were orally administered once a day for 36 consecutive days. At the end, sexual behavior was evaluated, and semen, testicle, and blood samples were obtained to analyze sperm quality, enzymatic activity, and testosterone levels, respectively. Rats exposed to Cd showed a decrease in sexual behavior, as well as in the quality of reproductive health, and an increase in oxidative stress; while rats exposed simultaneously to AM + Cd showed an improvement in all this parameters. Based on our results, we believe that the mechanism by which AM exerts its effect could be attributed to the presence of phycobiliproteins. These compounds are responsible for exerting an antioxidant effect and chelating effect on elements such as Cd.

C-Phycocyanin: A Phycobiliprotein from Spirulina with Metabolic Syndrome and Oxidative Stress Effects.

Spirulina maxima is a cyanobacterium considered a "superfood" due to its metabolites and nutrient content. These include a complex mixture of minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, proteins, and accessory pigments. In recent years, it has positioned itself as a promising source of bioactive molecules for the treatment of several diseases, including metabolic syndrome, coronary diseases, cancer, and the improvement of health modulating oxidative stress. C-Phycocyanin (C-PC) is a photosynthetic pigment from green-blue cyanobacterium and the most abundant phycobiliprotein in the Spirulina genus with various pharmacological properties attributed due to its antioxidant capacity but has no specific cellular target. This has made it a molecule of great interest in biomedical research. This review focuses on the pharmacological effects and the benefits on metabolic syndrome and oxidative stress of C-PC.

Risk factors determining adherence to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukaemia.

OBJECTIVE: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have successfully changed the natural course of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Although they are highly effective drugs, their clinical benefit is conditioned by adherence. This study aims to analyse the adherence of CML patients treated with TKIs and to identify the main factors influencing their adherence to TKIs treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An 8-month prospective, observational, multicentre study which included patients diagnosed with CML on treatment with TKIs attending the outpatient departments (OPD) of the Pharmacy Services of the participating hospitals. Adherence was assessed using two methods: the Simplified Medication Adherence Questionnaire (SMAQ) and the register of treatment dispensations from the OPDs. To analyse the predictors of adherence, a questionnaire was developed to report demographic and socio-economic information on the patients. RESULTS: A total of 130 patients enrolled in this study. Adherence rate was 56.9% (n = 74) among individuals, not conditioned by the type of drug used: imatinib (54.8%), nilotinib (63.6%) or dasatinib (54.3%) (p = 0.67). The patient educational level (p = 0.047) and employment status (p = 0.028) were predictors of non-adherence to treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Adherence is one of the most relevant parameters affecting the effectiveness of highly effective chronic treatments. Approximately half of our patients showed inadequate adherence to treatment with TKIs, with employment status and the individual's level of education emerging as the determining factors.

Rehabilitación cardíaca integral en un caso de paciente con miocardiopatía por SARS-COV-2 / Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation in a Case of a Patient with SARS-CoV-2 Cardiomyopathy

Introducción: Una complicación reportada en la infección por SARS-CoV-2 es la miocardiopatía. Se ha descrito que los pacientes pueden presentar un deterioro significativo de la clase funcional, que limita el desempeño en las actividades de la vida diaria, sociales, familiares y laborales. La rehabilitación cardíaca como componente integral es una alternativa de tratamiento no farmacológica en el manejo de secuelas cardiovasculares ocasionadas por SARS-CoV-2. Objetivo: Describir el impacto de la rehabilitación cardíaca integral en un caso de paciente con miocardiopatía por SARS-CoV-2. Caso clínico: Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 56 años de edad con miocardiopatía por SARS-CoV-2 quien realizó rehabilitación cardíaca integral. Conclusiones: La rehabilitación cardíaca con un componente de intervención integral multidisciplinar permitió al paciente mejorar la capacidad aeróbica, sintomatología, calidad de vida relacionada con la salud y reincorporarse a las actividades sociales, familiares y laborales(AU)

Introduction: A reported complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection is cardiomyopathy. It has been described that patients may present with significant impairment of functional class, limiting performance in activities of daily living, social, family and work. Cardiac rehabilitation as an integral component is a non-pharmacological treatment alternative in the management of cardiovascular sequelae caused by SARS-CoV-2. Objective: To describe the impact of comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation in a case of a patient with cardiomyopathy due to SARS-CoV-2. Case report: We present the case of a 56-year-old patient with SARS-CoV-2 cardiomyopathy who underwent comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation. Conclusions: Cardiac rehabilitation with a comprehensive multidisciplinary intervention component allowed the patient to improve aerobic capacity, symptomatology, health-related quality of life and reincorporation to social, family and work activities(AU)

Architecture of a Data Portal for Publishing and Delivering Open Data for Atmospheric Measurement.

Atmospheric data are collected by researchers every day. Campaigns such as GOAmazon 2014/2015 and the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory collect essential data on aerosols, gases, cloud properties, and meteorological parameters in the Brazilian Amazon basin. These data products provide insights and essential information for analyzing and predicting natural processes. However, in Brazil, it is estimated that more than 80% of the scientific data collected are not published due to the lack of web portals that collect and store these data. This makes it difficult, or even impossible, to access and integrate the data, which can result in the loss of significant amounts of information and significantly affect the understanding of the overall data. To address this problem, we propose a data portal architecture and open data deployment that enable Big Data processing, human interaction, and download-oriented approaches with tools that help users catalog, publish and visualize atmospheric data. Thus, we describe the architecture developed, based on the experience of the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Data Center, which incorporates the principles of FAIR, the infrastructure and content management system for managing scientific data. The portal partial results were tested with environmental data from contaminated areas at the University of São Paulo. Overall, this data portal creates more shared knowledge about atmospheric processes by providing users with access to open environmental data.

Protective Effect of the Phycobiliproteins from Arthrospira maxima on Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in a Rat Model.

Gastric ulcers (GU) constitute a disease with a global prevalence ≈ 8.09 million. Of their causes, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (IND) rank as the second most frequent etiologic agent. The pathogenic process of gastric lesions is given by the overproduction of oxidative stress, promotion of inflammatory processes, and inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Spirulina Arthrospira maxima (SP) is a cyanobacterium with a wide variety of substances with high nutritional and health values such as phycobiliproteins (PBPs) that have outstanding antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatories effects, and accelerate the wound healing process. This study aimed to determine the protective effect of PBPs in GU induced by IND 40 mg/kg. Our results show that the PBPs protected against IND-induced damage with a dose-dependent effect. At a dose of 400 mg/kg, a marked decrease in the number of lesions is observed, as well as the recovery of the main markers of oxidative stress damage (MDA) and antioxidant species (SOD, CAT, GPx) at close to baseline levels. The evidence derived from the present investigation suggests that the antioxidant effect of PBPs, together with their reported anti-inflammatory effects to accelerate the wound healing process, is the most reliable cause of their antiulcerogenic activity in this GU model.

Effects of Spirulina maxima on a Model of Sexual Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats.

Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima (SM) is a cyanobacterium that has a long history of being used as human food. In recent years, several investigations have shown its beneficial biological effects, among which its antioxidant capacity has been highlighted. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of SM on body weight, glycemia, sexual behavior, sperm quality, testosterone levels, sex organ weights, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in diabetic male rats (a disease characterized by an increase in reactive oxygen species). The experiment consisted of six groups of sexually expert adult males (n = 6): (1) control (vehicle); (2) streptozotocin (STZ)-65 mg/kg; (3) SM-400 mg/kg; (4) STZ + SM-100 mg/kg; (5) STZ + SM-200 mg/kg; and (6) STZ + SM-400 mg/kg. Sexual behavior tests were performed during the first 3 h of the dark period under dim red illumination. Our results showed that SM significantly improved sexual behavior and sperm quality vs. diabetic animals. Likewise, while the enzymatic activities of SOD and GPx increased, TBARS lipoperoxidation decreased and testosterone levels increased. In view of the findings, it is suggested that SM may potentially be used as a nutraceutical for the treatment of diabetic male sexual dysfunction due to its antioxidant property.

Recomendaciones para la rehabilitación pulmonar en pacientes con COVID-19 / Recommendations for pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with COVID-19

Introducción: La COVID-19 es una enfermedad que desencadena infecciones respiratorias graves como el síndrome respiratorio agudo severo, que puede requerir atención prolongada intra y extrahospitalaria. Objetivo: Brindar recomendaciones y pautas para una correcta evaluación y tratamiento del paciente con COVID-19 mediante la rehabilitación pulmonar. Materiales y métodos: Revisión de la literatura en las bases de datos MEDLINE, PEDRO, Scielo y en Google Scholar, a partir de las palabras clave: COVID-19, Síndrome de Dificultad Respiratoria del Adulto, Enfermedades pulmonares, Rehabilitación, pruebas de función respiratoria, Unidad de cuidado intensivo; seleccionando, aquellos artículos que presentaran información sobre rehabilitación en pacientes con COVID-19 y otras alteraciones con compromiso similar como el Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo y las Enfermedades Pulmonares Intersticiales Difusas. Resultados: Para realizar una intervención en paciente con COVID-19 u otra alteración respiratoria como Síndrome de Dificultad Respiratoria del Adulto y Enfermedad Pulmonar Intersticial Difusa, es necesario realizar un adecuado diagnóstico de la enfermedad, una minuciosa evaluación integral y una intervención basada en las necesidades de cada individuo. Conclusiones: El paciente intrahospitalario puede recibir intervención enfocada a evitar el deterioro funcional y una vez son dados de alta la rehabilitación pulmonar extrahospitalaria podría ser una alternativa eficaz en el tratamiento para los pacientes.

Introduction: COVID-19 is a disease that triggers serious respiratory infections such as severe acute respiratory syndrome, which requires treatment on an inpatient and outpatient basis. Objective: To provide recommendations and guidelines for the appropriate assessment and treatment of COVID-19 patients through pulmonary rehabilitation. Materials and methods: A literature review using MEDLINE, PEDRO, Scielo and Google Scholar databases and the keywords: COVID-19, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Pulmonary diseases, Rehabilitation, Respiratory function tests, Intensive Care Unit. Articles that described information regarding rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients and other similar dysfunctions such as Acute Respiratory Syndrome and Diffuse Interstitial Lung Diseases. Results: It is necessary to carry out an appropriate disease diagnosis, a detailed integral assessment, and an intervention based on the needs of each patient in order to intervene with either COVID-19 patients or cases with other respiratory dysfunctions such as Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Diffuse Interstitial Lung Disease. Conclusions: Inpatients can be subjected to an intervention focused on avoiding functional failure. Once they are discharged, outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation could be an effective treatment alternative for these patients.

Saúde bucal de crianças com microcefalia associada ao Zika vírus / Oral health of children with microcephaly associated with Zika vírus / Salud bucal de los niños con microcefalia asociada al virus del Zika

Objetivo: descrever sobre as condições bucais das crianças com Microcefalia associada ao Zika vírus. Metodologia: Estudo transversal realizado com 13 crianças atendidas no projeto institucional e multidisciplinar "Atenção Integrada às crianças com microcefalia por Zika vírus" e seus respectivos cuidadores. Foi realizado entrevista com os cuidadores e de exame clínico bucal nas crianças, sendo coletados dados sobre características sociodemográficas e econômicas, hábitos de higiene, comportamentais e alimentares, assim como as características oclusais e os índices clínicos odontológicos (ISG, IPV e ceo-d). Os dados foram analisados de maneira descritiva e através do teste Wilcoxon no software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 20. Resultados: A maioria das crianças eram do sexo feminino (53,8%), entre 24 e 35 meses (76,9%) e a mãe era o principal cuidador (76,9%). Em relação aos hábitos das crianças, 61,5% apresentavam alimentação semissólida, com frequência de escovação diária de duas vezes ou mais (46,2%), utilizavam mamadeira (76,9%) e chupeta (53,8%). As crianças não apresentavam cárie, o ISG e IPV foram considerados satisfatórios. Além disso, 92,3% das crianças rangiam os dentes durante a noite, 61,5% apresentavam mordida aberta anterior, sobressaliência aumentada (84,6%) e cronologia de erupção alterada (84,6%). Conclusão: As crianças apresentavam erupção dentária tardia, presença de facetas de desgastes, chave de canino com classificação I, mordida aberta anterior e sobressaliência aumentada. Além disso, possuíam frequência de escovação satisfatória, alimentações semissólida, usavam mamadeira e chupeta. A partir dos índices odontológicos, observou-se que as crianças apresentavam uma saúde bucal satisfatória(AU)

Objective: to describe the oral conditions of children with microcephaly associated with Zikavirus. Methodology: Cross-sectional study carried out with 13 children assisted in the institutional and multidisciplinary project "Integrated Care for children with microcephaly due to Zika virus" and their respective caregivers. Interviews were conducted with caregivers and a clinical oral exam was carried out on the children, with data on sociodemographic and economic characteristics, hygiene, behavioral and dietary habits, as well as occlusal characteristics and clinical dental indexes (ISG, IPV and ceo-d) being collected. The data were analyzed descriptively and using the Wilcoxon test in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software, version 20. Results: Most children were female (53.8%), between 24 and 35 months (76.9 %) and the mother wasthe main caregiver (76.9%). Regarding the children's habits, 61.5% had a semi-solid diet, with a daily brushing frequency of twice or more (46.2%), used a bottle (76.9%) and pacifier (53.8%). The children did not present caries, the ISG and IPV were considered satisfactory. In addition, 92.3% of children gritted their teeth at night, 61.5% had an open anterior bite, increased overjet (84.6%) and altered rash chronology (84.6%) Conclusion: Children had a rash late dental, presence of wear facets, canine keywith classification I, anterior open bite and increased overjet. In addition, they had a satisfactory brushing frequency, semi-solid food, used a bottle and used a pacifier. From the dental indexes, it was observed that the children had satisfactory oral health(AU)

Objetivo: describir las condiciones bucales de los niños con microcefalia asociada al virus del Zika. Metodología: Estudio transversal realizado con 13 niños atendidos en el proyecto institucional y multidisciplinario "Atención integral a niños conmicrocefalia por virus Zika" y sus respectivos cuidadores. Se realizaron entrevistas con los cuidadores y se realizó un examen clínico bucal a los niños, con datos de características sociodemográficas y económicas, higiene, hábitos de comportamiento y dietéticos, así como características oclusales e índices clínico-odontológicos (ISG, IPV y ceo). -d) siendo recogido. Los datos se analizaron de forma descriptiva y mediante la prueba de Wilcoxon en el software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versión 20. Resultados: La mayoría de los niños eran mujeres (53,8%), entre 24 y 35 meses (76,9%) y la madre era la principal cuidadora. (76,9%). En cuanto a los hábitos de los niños, el 61,5% tenía alimentación semisólida, con una frecuencia de cepillado diario de dos o más (46,2%), utilizaba biberón (76,9%) y chupete (53,8%). Los niños no presentaron caries, la ISG y la IPV se consideraron satisfactorias. Además, el 92,3% de los niños apretaban los dientes por la noche, el 61,5% tenía una mordida anterior abierta, un resalte elevado (84,6%) y una cronología de la erupción alterada (84,6%) Conclusión: los niños tenían una erupción dental tardía, presencia de facetas de desgaste, canino clave con clasificación I, mordida abierta anterior y resalte aumentado. Además, tenían una frecuencia de cepillado satisfactoria, alimentos semisólidos, usaban biberón y usaban chupete. A partir de los índices dentales, se observó que los niños tenían una salud bucal satisfactoria(AU)

Blunted blood pressure response to exercise and isolated muscle metaboreflex activation in patients with cirrhosis.

We sought to test the hypothesis that the cardiovascular responses to isolated muscle metaboreflex activation would be blunted in patients with cirrhosis. Eleven patients with cirrhosis and 15 healthy controls were evaluated. Blood pressure (BP; oscillometric method), contralateral forearm blood flow (FBF; venous occlusion plethysmography), and heart rate (HR; electrocardiogram) were measured during baseline, isometric handgrip at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction followed by postexercise ischemia (PEI). Forearm vascular conductance (FVC) was calculated as follows: (FBF / mean BP) × 100. Changes in HR during handgrip were similar between groups but tended to be different during PEI (controls: Δ 0.5 ± 1.1 bpm vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 3.6 ± 1.0 bpm, P = 0.057). Mean BP response to handgrip (controls: Δ 20.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 10.6 ± 1.5 mm Hg, P = 0.006) and PEI was attenuated in cirrhotic patients (controls: Δ 16.1 ± 1.9 mm Hg vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 7.2 ± 1.4 mm Hg, P = 0.001). In contrast, FBF and FVC increased during handgrip and decreased during PEI similarly between groups. These results indicate that an abnormal muscle metaboreflex activation explained, at least partially, the blunted pressor response to exercise exhibited by cirrhotic patients. Novelty: Patients with cirrhosis present abnormal muscle metaboreflex activation. BP response was blunted but forearm vascular response was preserved. HR response was slightly elevated.

Computerized Cognitive Training for ADHD as an Add-On Treatment to Stimulants: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Objective: Computerized cognitive training (CCT) as add-on treatment to stimulants for ADHD core symptoms is scarcely investigated. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of CCT in a randomized controlled clinical trial for ADHD in children and adolescents treated with stimulants. Method: Fifty-three participants aged 6 to 13 years receiving stimulant treatment and presenting ADHD residual symptoms were randomized either to a CCT (n = 29) or to a controlled nonactive condition (n = 24) for four sessions/week during 12 weeks. The main outcome measure was inattentive symptoms assessed using the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham-IV (SNAP-IV) Scale. Secondary outcomes include, among others, hyperactive/impulsive symptoms and cognitive tests. Results: There were neither significant group differences on ADHD-inattentive symptoms after the intervention nor on both ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms and cognitive measures. Conclusion: Our study does not provide evidence for the benefits of cognitive training over nonactive training on core ADHD symptoms in medicated ADHD children and adolescents.

Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces naeslundii Interaction in Dual-Species Biofilm.

The study of bacterial interaction between Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces naeslundii may disclose important features of biofilm interspecies relationships. The aim of this study was to characterize-with an emphasis on biofilm formation and composition and metabolic activity-single- and dual-species biofilms of S. mutans or A. naeslundii, and to use a drip flow reactor (DFR) to evaluate biofilm stress responses to 0.2% chlorhexidine diacetate (CHX). Single- and dual-species biofilms were grown for 24 h. The following factors were evaluated: cell viability, biomass and total proteins in the extracellular matrix, 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide-"XTT"-reduction and lactic acid production. To evaluate stress response, biofilms were grown in DFR. Biofilms were treated with CHX or 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl; control). Biofilms were plated for viability assessment. Confocal laser-scanning microscopy (CLSM) was also performed. Data analysis was carried out at 5% significance level. S. mutans viability and lactic acid production in dual-species biofilms were significantly reduced. S. mutans showed a higher resistance to CHX in dual-species biofilms. Total protein content, biomass and XTT reduction showed no significant differences between single- and dual-species biofilms. CLSM images showed the formation of large clusters in dual-species biofilms. In conclusion, dual-species biofilms reduced S. mutans viability and lactic acid production and increased S. mutans' resistance to chlorhexidine.

Effects of computerized cognitive training as add-on treatment to stimulants in ADHD: a pilot fMRI study.

The neurofunctional effects of Cognitive training (CT) are poorly understood. Our main objective was to assess fMRI brain activation patterns in children with ADHD who received CT as an add-on treatment to stimulant medication. We included twenty children with ADHD from a clinical trial of stimulant medication and CT (10 in medication + CT and 10 in medication + non-active training). Between-group differences were assessed in performance and in brain activation during 3 fMRI paradigms of working memory (N-back: 0-back, 1-back, 2-back, 3-back), sustained attention (Sustained Attention Task - SAT: 2 s, 5 s and 8 s delays) and inhibitory control (Go/No-Go). We found significant group x time x condition interactions in working memory (WM) and sustained attention on brain activation. In N-back, decreases were observed in the BOLD signal change from baseline to endpoint with increasing WM load in the right insula, right putamen, left thalamus and left pallidum in the CT compared to the non-active group; in SAT - increases in the BOLD signal change from baseline to endpoint with increasing delays were observed in bilateral precuneus, right insula, bilateral associative visual cortex and angular gyrus, right middle temporal, precentral, postcentral, superior frontal and middle frontal gyri in the CT compared to the non-active group. CT in ADHD was associated with changes in activation in task-relevant parietal and striato-limbic regions of sustained attention and working memory. Changes in brain activity may precede behavioral performance modifications in working memory and sustained attention, but not in inhibitory control.

Cambios urodinámicos y en el punto Aa del sistema POP-Q, posterior a la colocación de cinta mediouretral / Urodynamic changes and at point Aa of POP-Q system, after midurethral sling placement

Resumen OBJETIVO: Determinar los cambios en el punto Aa del sistema POP-Q y en la prueba del Q-tip para hipermovilidad uretral y en los parámetros urodinámicos encontrados antes y 1 año después de la colocación de una cinta mediouretral. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo efectuado en pacientes a quienes se colocó una cinta mediouretral mediante acceso transobturador y retropúbico, por diagnóstico de incontinencia urinaria de esfuerzo, incontinencia urinaria mixta, incontinencia dual o con índice de riesgo de incontinencia urinaria de novo, posterior a cirugía de prolapso (R-CALC) mayor de 30%. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 200 pacientes de 51.59 ± 10.13 años de edad promedio. Conforme al grado de prolapso de órganos pélvicos, el estadio II tuvo una frecuencia de 57.5% (n = 115), el grado III de 21.5% (n = 43). En los hallazgos de la exploración física, previa a la cirugía, se encontró que 69% (n = 138) de las pacientes tuvieron una prueba de Q tip con hipermovilidad uretral (más de 30°). Al comparar el porcentaje de pacientes con hipermovilidad uretral posterior a 1 año de la cirugía, se observó disminución en las pacientes con hipermovilidad (p = 0.0001). La cuantificación del punto Aa en la escala del sistema POP-Q se encontró durante la exploración preoperatoria a 0.1 ± 1.17 cm respecto del himen y al año del procedimiento quirúrgico a -1.54 ± 1.18 cm, con p = 0.0001. CONCLUSIÓN: En todas las pacientes se demostró la disminución significativa del punto Aa en la revaloración del POP-Q de un estadio II a I posterior a la colocación de una cinta mediouretral; además de la disminución en el ángulo de movilidad uretral. No se observaron modificaciones significativas en los parámetros urodinámicos evaluados.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the changes in point Aa of the POP-Q system and in the Q-tip test for urethral hypermobility as well as in the urodynamic parameters found before and 1 year after mediurethral sling placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study carried out in patients who were placed with a mediourethral tape by transobturator and retropubic access, by diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence, mixed urinary incontinence, dual incontinence or with risk index of de novo urinary incontinence after surgery. Prolapse (R-CALC) greater than 30%. RESULTS: 200 patients of 51.59 ± 10.13 years of average age were studied. According to the degree of pelvic organ prolapse, stage II had a frequency of 57.5% (n = 115), grade III with 21.5% (n = 43). In the physical examination findings, prior to surgery, it was found that 69% (n = 138) of the patients had a Q tip test with urethral hypermobility (more than 30°). When comparing the percentage of patients with urethral hypermobility after 1 year of surgery, a decrease was observed in patients with hypermobility (p = 0.0001). The quantification of point Aa on the scale of the POP-Q system was found during the preoperative examination at 0.1 ± 1.17 cm with respect to the hymen and one year after the surgical procedure at -1.54 ± 1.18 cm, with p = 0.0001. CONCLUSION: The significant decrease in point Aa in the reassessment of POP-Q from stage II to I after the placement of a mediourethral tape in all patients was demonstrated, in addition to the decrease in the angle of urethral mobility. No significant changes were observed in the urodynamic parameters evaluated.

Biochemical and molecular characterization of N66 from the shell of Pinctada mazatlanica.

Mollusk shell mineralization is a tightly controlled process made by shell matrix proteins (SMPs). However, the study of SMPs has been limited to a few model species. In this study, the N66 mRNA of the pearl oyster Pinctada mazatlanica was cloned and functionally characterized. The full sequence of the N66 mRNA comprises 1,766 base pairs, and encodes one N66 protein. A sequence analysis revealed that N66 contained two carbonic anhydrase (CA) domains, a NG domain and several glycosylation sites. The sequence showed similarity to the CA VII but also with its homolog protein nacrein. The native N66 protein was isolated from the shell and identified by mass spectrometry, the peptide sequence matched to the nucleotide sequence obtained. Native N66 is a glycoprotein with a molecular mass of 60-66 kDa which displays CA activity and calcium carbonate precipitation ability in presence of different salts. Also, a recombinant form of N66 was produced in Escherichia coli, and functionally characterized. The recombinant N66 displayed higher CA activity and crystallization capability than the native N66, suggesting that the lack of posttranslational modifications in the recombinant N66 might modulate its activity.

Chemical and morpho-functional aspects of the interaction between a Neotropical resin bug and a sticky plant

Rubus adenotrichos is an Andean blackberry plant bearing glandular trichomes which secrete an adhesive exudate. The resin bug Heniartes stali is frequently found on this plant and collects this exudate using the forelegs to enhance its preying capacity. Here, we describe the morphology of the plant's glandular trichomes with the aid of light and scanning electron microscopy, as well as the chemical components of the exudate by histochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. We have also combined behavioral observations with the analysis of the insect leg morphology to identify possible morpho-functional adaptations evolved by H. stali for collecting the sticky secretions. Glandular trichomes exhibited a multicellular long stalk and a calyx-shaped head with radially aligned cells. The composition of the resinous fluid was mainly terpenes and phenolics, which may contribute to its sticky properties. Brush-like structures on the tibia of forelegs in H. stali suggests an adaptive trait for collecting the trichomes exudate. A profusely hair-covered area on metatibiae operated as a resin storage structure. Abundant pore-like openings were observed in the cuticle of this area through which substances could be conceivably secreted to prevent resin hardening. These findings combine morphological and chemical features of a fascinating insect-plant interaction in the Neotropics.

Rubus adenotrichos es una planta de mora andina que contiene tricomas glandulares los cuales secretan un exudado pegajoso. El chinche de las resinas Heniartes stali se encuentra con frecuencia en esta planta recogiendo el exudado con sus patas delanteras para mejorar su capacidad en la captura de las presas. En este trabajo empleamos microscopía de luz y microscopía electrónica de barrido para describir la morfología de los tricomas. Los constituyentes químicos del exudado fueron estudiados mediante técnicas histoquímicas, de cromatografía de gases y espectrometría de masas. También combinamos observaciones del comportamiento del insecto en la recolección y almacenamiento del exudado con el análisis de la morfología de sus patas, empleando microscopía de luz y microscopía electrónica de barrido para identificar las posibles adaptaciones morfo-funcionales desarrolladas para la manipulación de estas secreciones adhesivas. Los tricomas glandulares exhibieron un tallo largo multicelular y una cabeza glandular en forma de cáliz con células alineadas radialmente. El fluido resinoso estaba compuesto principalmente por terpenos y compuestos fenólicos, los cuales parecen contribuir con sus propiedades adhesivas. La presencia de estructuras tipo pincel en las puntas de las tibias de las patas delanteras sugieren un carácter adaptativo para recoger el exudado de los tricomas. También describimos un área en las patas traseras profusamente cubierta de pelos, que funcionaban como estructuras de almacenamiento de la resina. En la cutícula de éstas observamos abundantes aberturas similares a poros y sugerimos que a través de ellos se secretan sustancias que impiden el endurecimiento de la resina almacenada. Estos hallazgos aportan información sobre características morfológicas y químicas de un novedoso modelo de interacción insecto-planta en el neotrópico.

Developmental exposure to mancozeb induced neurochemical and morphological alterations in adult male mouse hypothalamus.

Mancozeb, a dithiocarbamate widely used in agriculture, is considered a developmental hazard in humans; however, more evidences are still needed concerning the consequences of chronic exposure to this pesticide. Mancozeb neurotoxicity in developing mouse hypothalamus was evaluated by subchronic exposure of male Mus musculus mice to low and high doses of mancozeb (30 and 90 mg/kg body weight, respectively) from late neonatal until adolescence. Variations in hypothalamic amino acid neurotransmitter levels and changes in histological as well as cytological characteristics were analyzed in young adult experimental mice and compared with control. A dose-dependent increase in excitation/ inhibition ratio was observed in mancozeb-exposed hypothalamus, indicating an overall state of excitoxicity. Histopathological and ultrastructural studies showed increased apoptosis, neuroinflammation and demyelination, demonstrating mancozeb-induced cytotoxicity in hypothalamic neurosecretory cells. In summary, both neurochemical and morphological data revealed mancozeb-induced alterations during development of hypothalamic circuitry that are critical for maturation of the neuroendocrine system.

Amelioration of Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats Pretreated with Phycobiliproteins of Arthrospira (Spirulina) Maxima.

Phycobiliproteins of Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima have attracted attention because of their potential therapeutic antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to assess the possible antiulcerogenic activity of these phycobiliproteins (ExPhy) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. To explore the possible mechanisms of action, we examined antioxidant defense enzymes (e.g., catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase), as well as the level of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and the histopathological changes in the gastric mucosa. Intragastric administration of ExPhy (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight) significantly lowered the ulcer index value compared to the ulcer control group (p < 0.05). The greatest protection was provided by the concentration of 400 mg/kg. The histological study supported the observed gastroprotective activity of ExPhy, showing a reduced inflammatory response. Moreover, the alcohol-induced decrease in stomach antioxidant enzyme activity found in the ulcer control group was prevented by ExPhy pretreatment. Furthermore, ExPhy reversed the ethanol-induced increase in lipid peroxidation. In summary, the antiulcerogenic potential of ExPhy may be due, at least in part, to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Computerized cognitive training in children and adolescents with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder as add-on treatment to stimulants: feasibility study and protocol description.

Background: Cognitive training has received increasing attention as a non-pharmacological approach for the treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Few studies have assessed cognitive training as add-on treatment to medication in randomized placebo controlled trials. The purpose of this preliminary study was to explore the feasibility of implementing a computerized cognitive training program for ADHD in our environment, describe its main characteristics and potential efficacy in a small pilot study. Methods: Six ADHD patients aged 10-12-years old receiving stimulants and presenting residual symptoms were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial to either a standard cognitive training program or a controlled placebo condition for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was core ADHD symptoms measured using the Swanson, Nolan and Pelham Questionnaire (SNAP-IV scale). Results: We faced higher resistance than expected to patient enrollment due to logistic issues to attend face-to-face sessions in the hospital and to fill the requirement of medication status and absence of some comorbidities. Both groups showed decrease in parent reported ADHD symptoms without statistical difference between them. In addition, improvements on neuropsychological tests were observed in both groups - mainly on trained tasks. Conclusions: This protocol revealed the need for new strategies to better assess the effectiveness of cognitive training such as the need to implement the intervention in a school environment to have an assessment with more external validity. Given the small sample size of this pilot study, definitive conclusions on the effects of cognitive training as add-on treatment to stimulants would be premature.

Childhood trauma and suicide attempt: A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies from the last decade.

Childhood trauma (CT) is a modifiable risk factor for lifetime suicide attempts (SA). However, the extent to which each type of CT increases SA risk is unclear. This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis of longitudinal studies published in the last 10 years about the relationship between CT and lifetime SA risk. The PUBMED, PsycINFO, ISI, and EMBASE databases were searched for cohort studies that reported AS during follow-up and included an assessment of CT. A meta-analysis was conducted to identify potential effects of each type of CT on SA. Seven unique studies were included for review. Sexual (n=6, OR=3.73, 95%CI 2.94-4.75, p<0.001), physical (n=6, OR=4.11, 95%CI 2.30-7.33, p<0.001), and emotional abuse (n=3, OR=3.98, 95%CI 2.89-5.64, p<0.001), as well as physical neglect (n=2, OR=3.42, 95%CI 2.09-5.59, p<0.001), were associated with SA. Emotional neglect and a broken home were not significantly associated with further SA. The modes of CT that most contribute to SA in later life are physical, emotional, and sexual abuse and physical neglect, in descending order.