Efeitos anti-inflamatórios do extrato alcoólico de folhas de garcinia gardneriana na peritonite induzida por lipopolissacarídeo / Anti-inflammatory effects of garcinia gardneriana leaf extract on lipopolysaccharideinduced peritonitis

Introdução: A Garcinia gardneriana é utilizada na medicina tradicional brasileira para o tratamento de tumores, inflamações e alívio de dores, mas as informações científicas são ainda limitadas. Objetivos: Diante do uso popular e o anseio por efeitos colaterais mínimos, o objetivo geral deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades anti-inflamatórias da G. gardneriana em modelo de peritonite induzido por lipopolissacarideo (LPS). Métodos: Ratos Wistar foram divididos aleatoriamente em 3 grupos (n= 5/ grupo): controle, induzido à peritonite e não tratado e induzido à peritonite e tratado com extrato de folhas alcoólico de G. gardneriana a 4%. A peritonite foi induzida por única injeção intraperitoneal de LPS (1 mg/kg). O tratamento com o extrato foi realizado por gavagem (1 ml), administrado antes e 12h após a injeção do LPS. Os ratos foram eutanasiados após 24h da indução de peritonite. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para análise plasmática de histamina, o lavado intraperitoneal para quantificação de neutrófilos e o intestino delgado para processamento histológico, quantificação de mastócitos e imuno-histoquímica da expressão da proteína Anexina A1 (AnxA1). Resultados: As análises quantitativas indicaram os efeitos anti-inflamatórios do extrato, pela redução do recrutamento de neutrófilos para a cavidade peritoneal e a diminuição da quantidade de mastócitos na lâmina própria do intestino delgado, comparadas aos animais não tratados. Não houve diferença estatística dos níveis de histamina. A imuno-histoquímica indicou diminuição acentuada da expressão da AnxA1 na mucosa intestinal dos animais tratados. Conclusão: Nossos dados demonstraram que o extrato alcoólico de G. gardneriana tem forte ação anti-inflamatória e potencial terapêutico para o desenvolvimento de fitoterápicos com propriedades anti-inflamatórias

Introduction: Garcinia gardneriana is used in traditional Brazilian medicine for the treatment of tumors, inflammation and relief of pain, but scientific information is still limited. Objective: In the face of popular use and the desire for minimal side effects, the general objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory properties of G. gardneriana in a model of lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis (LPS). Methods: Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 5 / group): control, induced to peritonitis and untreated and induced to peritonitis and treated with 4% alcoholic extract of G. gardneriana leaves. Peritonitis was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of LPS (1 mg/kg). Treatment with the extract was performed by gavage (1 ml), given before and 12h after LPS injection. The rats were euthanized 24h after the peritonitis induction. Blood samples were collected for plasma analysis of histamine, intraperitoneal lavage for quantification of neutrophils and the small intestine for histological processing for quantification of mast cells, and immunohistochemical analysis of the expression of Annexin A1 (AnxA1) protein. Results: Quantification analyses indicated the anti-inflammatory effects of the extract by reducing the recruitment of neutrophils into the peritoneal cavity and reducing the amount of mast cells in the lamina propria of the small intestine compared to the untreated animals. There was no statistical difference in the levels of histamine. Immunohistochemical studies indicated a marked decrease of the AnxA1 expression in the intestinal mucosa of the treated animals. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that the alcoholic extract of G. gardneriana has a strong anti-inflammatory action and therapeutic potential for the development of herbal products with anti-inflammatory properties

Introducción: Garcinia gardneriana se utiliza en la medicina tradicional brasileña para el tratamiento de tumores, inflamaciones y alivio del dolor, pero la información científica aún es limitada. Objetivo: Frente al uso popular y la búsqueda de efectos secundarios mínimos, lo objetivo general de este estudio fue evaluar las propiedades antiinflamatorias de G. gardneriana en un modelo de peritonitis inducido por lipopolisacárido (LPS). Métodos: Se dividieron aleatoriamente ratas Wistar en 3 grupos (n= 5/grupo): control, inducido a peritonitis y no tratado, e inducido a peritonitis y tratado con extracto alcohólico de hojas de G. gardneriana al 4%. La peritonitis fue inducida por una única inyección intraperitoneal de LPS (1 mg/kg). El tratamiento con el extracto se realizó por gavaje (1 ml), administrado antes y 12 horas después de la inyección de LPS. Las ratas fueron sacrificadas después de 24 horas de la inducción de peritonitis. Se recopilaron muestras de sangre para el análisis plasmático de histamina, el lavado intraperitoneal para la cuantificación de neutrófilos y el intestino delgado para el procesamiento histológico, la cuantificación de mastocitos y la inmunohistoquímica de la expresión de la proteína Anexina A1 (AnxA1). Resultados: Los análisis cuantitativos indicaron los efectos antiinflamatorios del extracto, mediante la reducción del reclutamiento de neutrófilos en la cavidad peritoneal y la disminución de la cantidad de mastocitos en la lámina propia del intestino delgado, en comparación con los animales no tratados. No hubo diferencia estadística en los niveles de histamina. La inmunohistoquímica indicó una disminución pronunciada de la expresión de AnxA1 en la mucosa intestinal de los animales tratados. Conclusión: Nuestros datos demostraron que el extracto alcohólico de G. gardneriana tiene una fuerte acción antiinflamatoria y potencial terapéutico para el desarrollo de fitoterapéuticos con propiedades antiinflamatorias.

Transgenic rat with overproduction of ubiquitous angiotensin-(1-7) presents neuroprotection in a model of ischemia and reperfusion.

Recent studies showed that angiotensin-(1-7) has cerebroprotective actions in stroke. In the present study, we aim to test whether tissue overexpression of Angiotensin-(1-7), mainly in the brain provides neuroprotection in a model of ischemia/reperfusion by bilateral common carotid arteries occlusion/reperfusion (BCCAo/R). Evaluation of neurological deficit scores and bilateral asymmetry test (BAT) were performed seven days after transient BCCAo/R in transgenic rats (TG-7371) overexpressing Angiotensin-(1-7) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. To assess blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability Evans blue dye (EB) was intravenously injected. Cytokine levels were quantified in the whole brain through Elisa assay and oxidative stress was measured 7 days after ischemia. The expression of AT1 and Mas receptors and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was evaluated by RT-PCR. Neurological deficits were observed in both SD-BCCAo/R and TG-BCCAo/R, contrasting to sham-operated groups. However, TG-BCCAo/R showed a significant lower neurological score and latency in BAT when compared with SD-BCCAo/R. BBB integrity in TG-BCCAo/R was improved, since these animals showed lower extravasation of EB than SD-BCCAo/R. Interestingly, TG-BCCAo/R presented lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines when compared to SD-BCCAo/R. Levels of IL-10 were higher in SD-BCCAo/R than in SD control and even higher in TG-BCCAo/R. TG-BCCAo/R animals presented decreased levels of TBARS and increase in SOD activity and GSH levels when compared to SD sham rats. RT-PCR results showed higher levels of AT1 receptor and iNOS in SD-BCCAo/R compared to TG-BCCAo/R, but no difference was observed for Mas receptor. The present study shows that lifetime increase in cerebral expression of an Ang-(1-7)-producing fusion protein induces neuroprotection in experimental global cerebral ischemia and reperfusion, reassuring that, pharmacological strategies leading to increase in Ang-(1-7) can be an additional tool for stroke therapy.

Classification of medicines and materials in hospital inventory management: a multi-criteria analysis.

BACKGROUND: In the hospital environment, to achieve an optimum level of operations and service, it is necessary to develop adequate inventory management system. Stocks can be managed, amongst other ways, through inputs classification, which is generally carried out based on a single criterion, such as monetary value, demand or criticality, which does not fully address the complexity of a hospital's inventory management system. Thus, the present study proposes a multi-criteria decision support model to help classify the stock of medicines and materials, enabling a more effective inventory management system for hospitals. METHODS: Methodologically, the study followed 3 stages: (1) preliminary phase; (2) modelling and choice phase; and (3) finalization phase. Each stage had a set of specific steps that were followed. The first stage identified the actors of the process, objectives, criteria and alternatives, establishing 5 criteria and 48 alternatives; the second stage was the choice and execution of the multi-criteria decision method to solve the problem. It was decided to use the Flexible and Interactive Tradeoff method for the sorting problematic. Finally, in the third stage, the sensitivity analysis for the developed model and the validation of the results with decision makers were carried out. In the study, 48 medicines and materials were included to validate the proposed model; however, the model could be used for more items. RESULTS: From the total of 48 medicines and hospital medical materials selected for the study, the classification of 34 of these alternatives to a single class was obtained through modelling and the other 14 alternatives were destined to two possible classes; moreover, the sensitivity analysis performed showed robust results. The items classified in class W should receive special attention by the stock manager; therefore, they should be monitored weekly. Items classified in class B should be monitored biweekly and finally, items classified in class M, should be monitored monthly. CONCLUSIONS: The classification of medicines and materials developed according to the inventory demands allowed more efficient purchasing decisions, optimizing the stock of materials and medicines at the hospital while optimizing the inventory manager's activities, saving time. Consequently, the proposed model can support the development of other multicriteria models in different hospital scenarios.

Beta tricalcium phosphate, either alone or in combination with antimicrobial photodynamic therapy or doxycycline, prevents medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Surgical trauma in those under a prolonged use of bisphosphonates, can lead to mediation-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). This study aimed to evaluate the preventive therapies for MRONJ. Following four cycles of zoledronic acid administration, Wistar rats had their molar extracted, and were organized into nine treatment groups: negative control group (NCG), treated with saline solution and blood-clot in the alveolus; positive control group (PCG), with blood-clot in the alveolus; BG, ß-tricalcium phosphate-based biomaterial; DG, 10% doxycycline gel; aG, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy; and DBG, aBG, aDG, and aDBG, using combination therapy. After 28 days, the lowest bone volume (BV/TV) was reported in PCG (42.17% ± 2.65), and the highest in aDBG (69.85% ± 6.25) (p < 0.05). The higher values of daily mineral apposition rate were recorded in aDBG (2.64 ± 0.48) and DBG (2.30 ± 0.37) (p < 0.001). Moreover, aDBG presented with the highest neoformed bone area (82.44% ± 2.69) (p < 0.05). Non-vital bone was reported only in the PCG (37.94 ± 18.70%). Owing to the key role of the biomaterial, the combination approach (aDBG) was the most effective in preventing MRONJ following tooth extraction.

Proof-of-Principle Study Suggesting Potential Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Butyrate and Propionate in Periodontal Cells.

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are potent immune modulators present in the gingival crevicular fluid. It is therefore likely that SCFAs exert a role in periodontal health and disease. To better understand how SCFAs can module inflammation, we screened acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid for their potential ability to lower the inflammatory response of macrophages, gingival fibroblasts, and oral epithelial cells in vitro. To this end, RAW 264.7 and primary macrophages were exposed to LPSs from Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) with and without the SCFAs. Moreover, gingival fibroblasts and HSC2 oral epithelial cells were exposed to IL1ß and TNFα with and without the SCFAs. We report here that butyrate was effective in reducing the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of IL6 and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2) in the RAW 264.7 and primary macrophages. Butyrate also reduced the IL1ß and TNFα-induced expression of IL8, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1), and CXCL2 in gingival fibroblasts. Likewise, butyrate lowered the induced expression of CXCL1 and CXCL2, but not IL8, in HSC2 cells. Butyrate further caused a reduction of p65 nuclear translocation in RAW 264.7 macrophages, gingival fibroblasts, and HSC2 cells. Propionate and acetate partially lowered the inflammatory response in vitro but did not reach the level of significance. These findings suggest that not only macrophages, but also gingival fibroblasts and oral epithelial cells are susceptive to the anti-inflammatory activity of butyrate.

Ingestão cáustica pediátrica em Minas Gerais ­ Brasil: um estudo observacional do Hospital Universitário de Uberlândia / Pediatric caustic ingestion in Minas Gerais ­ Brazil: an observational study at the University Hospital of Uberlândia

Introdução: Crianças menores de cinco anos são as principais vítimas de acidentes por ingestão de cáusticos, assim considerando a epidemiologia brasileira e dos riscos à exposição desses agentes ressalta-se a importância deste estudo que objetiva realizar uma análise descritiva dos casos de acidentes cáusticos em pacientes pediátricos atendidos em um hospital universitário de Minas Gerais. Método: Este é um estudo transversal descritivo, de caráter quantitativo, a partir dos dados obtidos de prontuários de pacientes pediátricos (0-13 anos) atendidos por ingestão de substâncias cáusticas, no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (Minas Gerais, Brasil). Resultados: Foram levantados 132 prontuários de crianças atendidas por ingestão de substâncias cáusticas de janeiro de 2011 a abril de 2018. Os acidentes acometeram crianças na faixa etária de 08 meses a 12 anos, sendo que 82,60% dos casos ocorreram em ambiente domiciliar. Entre as principais substâncias ingeridas estão os produtos de limpeza, quanto à sua composição química predominaram soda cáustica, hipoclorito de sódio e amoníaco. A endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) foi realizada em 104 pacientes. Quase 13% das crianças apresentaram estenose esofágica e necessitaram de dilatação esofágica. No período estudado, foram realizados 296 procedimentos de dilatações, com média de 17,4 procedimentos por paciente. Discussão: Considerando que os acidentes cáusticos são prevalentes em crianças menores de cinco anos e em ambiente domiciliar, as principais substâncias ingeridas são aquelas de caráter alcalino, que causam lesão no trato respiratório e gastrointestinal, sendo a principal consequência a estenose esofágica. Ademais, não há protocolos bem definidos para o manejo e a condução de pacientes que fizeram a ingestão dessas substâncias. As principais limitações do estudo foram o preenchimento incompleto dos prontuários analisados e os trâmites burocráticos para o acesso aos mesmos. Conclusão: Predominaram os acidentes cáusticos domiciliares e em crianças menores de 2 anos, o que implica a necessidade de ações educativas e preventivas. [au]

Introduction: Children under five years old are the principal victims of accidents caused by the ingestion of caustics, so considering Brazilian epidemiology and the risks of exposure to these agents the importance of this study is emphasized. This study aims to carry out a descriptive analysis of cases of caustic accidents in pediatric patients treated in a university hospital in Minas Gerais. Method: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study, with a quantitative character, based on data obtained from medical records of pediatric patients (0-13 years old) treated for ingestion of caustic agents at the Hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia (Minas Gerais, Brazil). Results: We collected 132 medical records of children treated for ingestion of caustic substances from January 2011 to April 2018. The accidents affected children aged between 8 months and 12 years, with 82.60% of the cases occurring in the home environment. Among the main substances ingested are cleaning products, as for their chemical composition, caustic soda, sodium hypochlorite, and ammonia predominated. Upper digestive endoscopy (UGE) was performed in 104 patients. Almost 13% of the children had esophageal strictures and required esophageal dilation. During the study period, 296 dilatation procedures were performed, with an average of 17.4 procedures per patient. Discussion: Considering that caustic accidents are prevalent in children under five years of age and the home environment, the main substances ingested are those of an alkaline nature, which cause injury to the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract, the main consequence being esophageal stenosis. Furthermore, there are no well-defined protocols for the management of patients who have ingested these substances. The main limitations of the study were the incomplete filling of the medical records analyzed and the bureaucratic procedures for accessing them. Conclusion: Caustic accidents predominated in children under two years old in the home environment, which implies the need for educational and preventive actions. [au]

Renin-Angiotensin System in Huntington's Disease: Evidence from Animal Models and Human Patients.

The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) is expressed in the central nervous system and has important functions that go beyond blood pressure regulation. Clinical and experimental studies have suggested that alterations in the brain RAS contribute to the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. However, there is limited information regarding the involvement of RAS components in Huntington's disease (HD). Herein, we used the HD murine model, (BACHD), as well as samples from patients with HD to investigate the role of both the classical and alternative axes of RAS in HD pathophysiology. BACHD mice displayed worse motor performance in different behavioral tests alongside a decrease in the levels and activity of the components of the RAS alternative axis ACE2, Ang-(1-7), and Mas receptors in the striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. BACHD mice also displayed a significant increase in mRNA expression of the AT1 receptor, a component of the RAS classical arm, in these key brain regions. Moreover, patients with manifest HD presented higher plasma levels of Ang-(1-7). No significant changes were found in the levels of ACE, ACE2, and Ang II. Our findings provided the first evidence that an imbalance in the RAS classical and counter-regulatory arms may play a role in HD pathophysiology.

Model to support intervention prioritization for the control of Aedes aegypti in Brazil: a multi-criteria approach.

BACKGROUND: Despite continuous strategic investments to mitigate the complexity involving arboviruses control, it is still necessary to further research methods and techniques to achieve in depth knowledge and shorter response times in the application of intervention activities. Consequently, the current work focused its efforts on the development of a multicriteria decision support model for the prioritization of prompt response activities for Aedes aegypti control, based on a case study in the city of Natal/RN. METHOD: The research was carried out in three stages: a) preliminary; b) modelling and choice; and c) finalization; the second stage was made possible by the Flexible and Interactive Tradeoff (FITradeoff) method for ranking problematic. Furthermore, the research encompassed ten actors who were involved in the model construction, eight internal and two external to the Natal Zoonoses Control Center (ZCC-Natal) as well as the observation of four operating scenarios for arboviruses control, based on transmission levels; and, evaluation of eleven alternatives from six different criteria perspectives. RESULTS: Rankings of the interventions evaluated in each of the four control operation scenarios present in the city of Natal/RN were obtained, considering technical criteria guided by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). CONCLUSIONS: As a result, it was developed a structured decision-making model that could help decision makers to minimize the effects and risks associated with the proliferation of the vector.

Are Altered Kinematics in Runners With Patellofemoral Pain Sex Specific?

BACKGROUND: Altered kinematics have been frequently observed in runners with patellofemoral pain (PFP), and few studies have aimed to understand the influence of sex on kinematics of this population. The aim of this study was to investigate whether altered hip and knee kinematics in runners with PFP are sex specific. HYPOTHESIS: Kinematics will be different between female and male runners with and without PFP. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 2. METHODS: Eighty-four runners were divided into 4 groups: 42 runners with PFP (20 women, 22 men) and 42 asymptomatic runners (21 women, 21 men). Three-dimensional gait analyses of the hip in the frontal and transverse plane and the knee in the frontal plane were analyzed at self-selected running speed on a treadmill. One-way analysis of covariance was used to test for differences in kinematic variables between groups. RESULTS: Women with PFP ran with a significantly greater peak hip adduction compared with men with PFP (mean difference [MD] = 4.45°; P = 0.00; effect size [ES] = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 4.2°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.54) and greater hip adduction range of motion (ROM) than men with PFP (MD = 3.44°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.49). No significant differences were identified between women with and without PFP. Female control subjects ran with greater peak hip adduction than men with PFP (MD = 5.46°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 5.21°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.55); greater hip adduction ROM than men with PFP (MD = 4.02°; P = 0.00; ES = 0.52) and male control subjects (MD = 2.91°;P = 0.04; ES = 0.36); and greater peak knee abduction than men with PFP (MD = 3.35°; P = 0.02; ES = 0.44) and male control subjects (MD = 3.69°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.4). CONCLUSION: Women have greater hip adduction than men regardless of the presence of PFP. There were no kinematics difference between women with and without PFP. Comparisons of hip internal rotation between all groups were nonsignificant. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Altered hip and knee kinematics does not appear to be sex specific in runners with PFP.

Photobiomodulation Therapy Improves Postoperative Pain and Edema in Third Molar Surgeries: A Randomized, Comparative, Double-Blind, and Prospective Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: Laser light has biological effects that can modulate inflammatory processes. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy on pain, edema, and trismus after the extraction of retained third molars. METHODS: A split-mouth, double-blind, randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted in 13 patients with similar bilateral third molars who received intraoral application PBM therapy at 4 points with a diode laser at 810 nm wavelength, 6 J (100 mW, 60 seconds/point) on 1 side (the PBM side); and laser irradiation simulation on the other side (SHAM side). The pain was assessed through visual analog scale (VAS) at 0, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours, number of analgesic-relief (NAR), and mean time of first analgesic use; edema, through VAS, and linear facial measurements at 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours; and trismus, through the mouth opening measurements at 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours. The repeated-measures analysis was applied to assess the effect of the treatment, followed by Tukey's post hoc test for multiple comparisons (P < .05). RESULTS: Thirteen patients (61.77% male and 38.63% female) with age of 24.16 ± 2.06 participated in this research. VAS showed that PBM controlled pain better (7.56 ± 6.25) than SHAM (32.25 ± 22.78) at 24 hours (P < .001) and 48 hours (19.47 ± 9.27 and 39.87 ± 4.21, respectively) (P = .011). VAS also showed that PBM controlled edema better (19.7 ± 13.27) than SHAM (32.38 ± 15.28) at 24 hours (P = .037) and 48 hours (19.47 ± 13.11 and 39.87 ± 22.77, respectively) (P = .002). CONCLUSION: The PBM therapy in this study resulted in pain and edema reduction after third molar surgery and may be considered as adjuvant therapy after the surgical procedure.

Are hip and knee kinematics and training load characteristics relate to pain intensity and physical function level in runners with Patellofemoral Pain?

BACKGROUND: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most common running-related injury. Altered hip and knee kinematics and increases in weekly distance and running pace are often associated with PFP development and exacerbation. RESEARCH QUESTION: Are altered movements and training load characteristics (weekly distance and running pace) relate to pain intensity or physical function level in runners with PFP? METHODS: Forty recreational runners with PFP (20 males and 20 females) participated in this cross-sectional observational study. Three-dimensional hip and knee kinematics were quantified during the stance phase of running. Weekly distance was defined as the average weekly kilometers of running and running pace as the average pace of the activity measured as minutes per kilometer. A visual analogue scale was used to evaluate worst knee pain during the last week. The anterior knee pain scale (AKPS) was used to evaluate knee functional score. A Pearson correlation matrix was used to investigate the association between each dependent variable (worst pain in the last week and AKPS score) and the independent variables (knee and hip kinematics, weekly distance and running pace). RESULTS: There was no significantly correlation between kinematic variables, pain and functional score for both males and females separately and combined. Weekly distance (km/week) was found to positively correlate to pain intensity (r = 0.452; p < 0.05) in females with PFP. A simple linear regression revealed that weekly distance was significant predictor emerged of pain in females with PFP. Females exhibited significantly greater peak hip adduction and hip adduction ROM than the males and males had significantly greater running pace compared to females. SIGNIFICANCE: Weekly distance should be considered in the clinical context during rehabilitation of PFP in females runners aiming at pain reduction.

Evaluation of Osteoconduction of a Synthetic Hydroxyapatite/ß-Tricalcium Phosphate Block Fixed in Rabbit Mandibles.

(1) Background: This study aimed to evaluate the incorporation of hydroxyapatite/ß-tricalcium phosphate blocks grafted in rabbit mandibles. (2) Methods: Topographic characterization of biomaterial was performed through scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Ten rabbits randomly received autogenous bone graft harvested from the tibia (Autogenous Group-AG) or synthetic biomaterial manufactured in ß-tricalcium phosphate (Biomaterial Group-BG) at their right and left mandibular angles. Euthanasia was performed at 30 and 60 postoperative days; (3) Results: SEM-EDX showed a surface with the formation of crystals clusters. Histological analyses in BG at 30 days showed a slower process of incorporation than AG. At 60 days, BG showed remnants of biomaterial enveloped by bone tissue in the anabolic modeling phase. Histometric analysis showed that mean values of newly formed bone-like tissue in the AG (6.56%/9.70%) were statistically higher compared to BG (3.14%/6.43%) in both periods, respectively. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated early bone formation and maturation in the AG with more intense osteopontin and osteocalcin staining. (4) Conclusions: The biomaterial proved to be a possible bone substitute, being incorporated into the receiving bed; however, it showed delayed bone incorporation compared to autogenous bone.

Atividade física como fator protetor para o extremo baixo peso em idosos assistidos por uma operadora de saúde / Physical activity as a protective factor for extreme low weight in elderly assisted by a health care operator

Objetivo: Investigar a influência de fatores relacionados aos aspectos multidimensionais do envelhecimento em um grupo de idosos com baixo peso assistidos pelo setor privado de saúde. Métodos: Estudo transversal conduzido com 243 idosos com índice de massa corpórea <23 kg/m², todos assistidos por uma operadora de planos de saúde, no município de São Paulo, SP, Brasil, alocados em dois grupos: baixo peso e extremo baixo peso. Para a coleta dos dados empregou-se inquérito contendo informações relacionadas aos aspectos multidimensionais do envelhecimento. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos a análise descritiva das variáveis, com posterior análise comparativa através dos testes t Student e Qui-Quadrado ou exato de Fisher, quando necessário. Para variáveis com significância estatística, aplicou-se regressão logística e calculou-se as Odds Ratio, com intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: Observou-se que, a idade avançada (p=0,044), dificuldade de mobilidade (p=0,011) e baixos níveis de atividade física (p=0.021) influenciam significativamente os idosos em estado nutricional de extremo baixo peso. Por meio do modelo de regressão logística, verificou-se que para cada uma hora de atividade física praticada pelos idosos deste grupo, os riscos de evolução para extremo baixo peso diminuem em até 14%. Conclusão: A pratica regular e orientada de atividade física praticada por idosos com algum grau de déficit nutricional é capaz de prevenir e/ou retardar desfechos indesejados em grupos susceptíveis.

Objective: Investigate the influence of factors related to multidimensional aspects of aging in a group of elderly assisted by the private health sector. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted with 243 elders with a body mass index <23 kg/m² assisted by a health plan in the city of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, with them being allocated into two groups: low weight and extreme low weight. For data collection, a survey developed by the researchers themselves containing information related to multidimensional aspects of aging was employed. The obtained data were submitted to a descriptive analysis of the variables and a subsequent comparative analysis through Student's t-distribution, Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests, when necessary. For variables with statistical significance, logistic regression was applied and the odds ratio, with a 95% confidence interval, was calculated. Results: It was observed that advanced age (p=0.044), mobility difficulty (p=0.011) and low levels of physical activity (p=0.021) significantly influence the elderly in extremely low weight nutritional status. Moreover, through the logistic regression model, it was found that, for this group, every hour of physical activity practiced by underweight elders, the risks of evolution to an extreme low weight status decrease by up to 14%. Conclusion: The regular and oriented practice of physical activity by the elderly with some degree of nutritional deficit is able to prevent and/or delay unwanted outcomes in susceptible groups.

Neuropsychiatric Properties of the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas Pathway: A Brief Review.

The current pharmacological strategies for the management of anxiety disorders and depression, serious conditions which are gaining greater prevalence worldwide, depend on only two therapeutic classes of mood-stabilizing drugs: Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs). Although first line agents with proven efficacy, their clinical success in the management of anxiety disorders and depression is still considered highly complex due to the multifaceted nature of such conditions. Several studies have shown a possible therapeutic target could be found in the form of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme [ACE] type 2 (ACE2), Angiotensin [Ang]-(1-7) and Mas receptor pathway of the Renin- Angiotensin System (RAS), which as will be discussed, has been described to exhibit promising therapeutic properties for the management of anxiety disorders and depression. In this article, the literature to describe recent findings related to the role of the RAS in anxiety and depression disorders was briefly revised. The literature used covers a time range from 1988 to 2019 and were acquired from the National Center for Biotechnology Information's (NCBI) PubMed search engine. The results demonstrated in this review are promising and encourage the development of new research for the treatment of anxiety and depression disorders focusing on the RAS. In conclusion, the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas pathway may exhibit anxiolytic and anti-depressive effects through many possible biochemical mechanisms both centrally and peripherally, and result in highly promising mental health benefits which justifies further investigation into this system as a possible new therapeutic target in the management of neuropsychiatric disorders, including any as of yet undescribed risk-benefit analysis compared to currently-implemented pharmacological strategies.

Avaliação do processo de reparo alveolar em ratos utilizando ß- tricálcio-fosfato associado ou não ao laser de baixa potência / Evaluation of the alveolar repair process in rats using ß-Tricalcium Phosphate associated or not with low power laser

O uso de biomateriais em substituição ao enxerto autógeno tem sido objeto de estudo, e apresentando resultados promissores. Deste modo, o objetivo desse estudo foi verificar os efeitos do ß-tricálcio-fosfato e do LASER de baixa potência no processo de reparo alveolar. Foram utilizados 96 ratos (Rattus novergicus albinus Wistar), sendo 24 ratos para análise dos cortes calcificados e 72 ratos para análise dos cortes descalcificados. Os animais foram submetidos a exodontia do incisivo superior direito e em seguida foi feita a separação por grupo e por tempo. Para os cortes calcificados, foi feita a divisão em 4 grupos de 6 animais cada: Grupo CO (Controle), Grupo BTF (Biomaterial), Grupo LS (LASER de baixa potência), Grupo BTFL (biomaterial LASER de baixa potência), eutanasiados no período de 28 dias. Para análise dos cortes descalcificados foram utilizados os mesmos grupos em tempos de eutanasia de 7,14 e 28 dias. As maxilas foram removidas e submetidas às análises histológica e histométrica nos cortes descalcificados e análise tomográfica microcomputadorizada (Micro-Ct) nos cortes calcificados. A análise por micro-Ct evidenciou formação de tecido ósseo em todos os grupos, porém não houve diferença entre os grupos experimentais e o controle. A análise histométrica evidenciou maior presença de tecido ósseo neoformado estatististicamente significante em LS aos 7 dias quando comparados aos demais grupos. Desta forma, concluiu-se que o LASER de baixa potência acelerou as fases inicias do processo de reparo alveolar(AU)

The use of biomaterials to replace autogenous grafts has been the subject of study, and has shown promising results. Thus, the objective of this study was to verify the effects of ß-tricalcium-phosphate and low-power LASER on the alveolar repair process. 96 rats (Rattus novergicus albinus Wistar) were used, being 24 rats for analysis of calcified cuts and 72 rats for analysis of decalcified cuts. The animals underwent extraction of the upper right incisor and then the separation was made by group and by time. For the calcified cuts, the division was made into 4 groups of 6 animals each: Group CO (Control), Group BTF (Biomaterial), Group LS (low power LASER), Group BTFL (low power LASER biomaterial), euthanized in the 28-day period. For the analysis of decalcified cuts, the same groups were used at times of euthanasia of 7.14 and 28 days. The jaws were removed and subjected to histological and histometric analysis in the decalcified sections and microcomputerized tomographic analysis (Micro-Ct) in the calcified sections. Micro-Ct analysis showed bone tissue formation in all groups, but there was no difference between experimental and control groups. Histometric analysis showed a greater presence of statistically significant neoformed bone tissue in LS at 7 days when compared to the other groups. Thus, it was concluded that the low-power LASER accelerated the early stages of the alveolar repair process(AU)

Critical Defect Healing Assessment in Rat Calvaria Filled with Injectable Calcium Phosphate Cement.

(1) Background: The tissue engineering field has been working to find biomaterials that mimic the biological properties of autogenous bone grafts. (2) Aim: To evaluate the osteoconduction potential of injectable calcium phosphate cement implanted in critical defects in rat calvaria. (3) Methods: In the calvarial bone of 36 rats, 7-mm diameter critical size defects were performed. Afterwards, the animals were randomly divided into three groups according to filler material: a blood clot group (BC), blood clot membrane group (BCM), and an injectable ß-tricalcium phosphate group (HBS) cement group. After periods of 30 and 60 days, the animals were euthanized, the calvaria was isolated, and submitted to a decalcification process for later blades confection. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the neoformed bone tissue were conducted, and histometric data were statistically analyzed. (4) Results: Sixty days post-surgery, the percentages of neoformed bone were 10.67 ± 5.57 in group BC, 16.71 ± 5.0 in group BCM, and 55.11 ± 13.20 in group HBS. The bone formation values in group HBS were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in groups BC and BCM. (5) Conclusions: Based on these results, it can be concluded that injectable calcium phosphate cement is an osteoconductive material that can be used to fill bone cavities.

Patellofemoral joint stress measured across three different running techniques.

BACKGROUND: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most common running-related injury. It has been shown in previous studies that gait retraining may have a beneficial effect on patellofemoral joint stress (PFJS). RESEARCH QUESTION: Is there a reduction of PFJS across 4 running conditions: 1. runner's typical rearfoot strike pattern, 2. forefoot landing, 3. step rate increase by 10% and 4. forward trunk lean? METHODS: Nineteen healthy runners (28.05 ± 5.03 years; 26.58 ± 8.85 km/week, 6.00 ± 4.51 years of running experience) completed one running trial for each condition, at the same subject-specific comfortable speed on a treadmill. Kinetic and kinematic data were collected and measures of hip, knee and ankle joint moments and PFJS were calculated. RESULTS: Compared to rearfoot strike condition, peak PFJS and PFJS-time integral per step were significantly (P < 0.01) lower during forefoot landing and step rate increase conditions. PFJS per kilometer was significantly reduced for forefoot landing (17.01%; P < 0.01) and increased step rate (12.90%; P = 0.003). Forward trunk lean technique showed no significant differences in peak PFJS (P = 0.187), PFJS-time integral per step (P = 0.815) and PFJS per kilometer (P = 0.077) compared to rearfoot strike pattern. INTERPRETATION: The comparison between techniques revealed greater reductions on PFJS by forefoot landing, followed by 10% step rate increase condition. These changes were the result of different lower limb movement strategies across the 2 running conditions. We conclude that compared to a rearfoot strike pattern, both a forefoot landing and step rate increase result in lower cumulative PFJS joint stress in healthy runners, with the forefoot landing being the most effective. These running technique modifications could be recommended to reduce PFJS loads and may have implications for PFP prevention.

Relationship between rearfoot, tibia and femur kinematics in runners with and without patellofemoral pain.

BACKGROUND: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most common running overuse injury. Excessive rearfoot eversion is commonly considered as a PFP risk factor and the relationship between ankle-foot complex movement and lower limb may be involved with this dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between rearfoot eversion with tibia and femur kinematics in frontal and transverse planes during running in individuals with and without PFP. The secondary purpose was to compare the lower limb kinematics between runners with and without PFP. METHODS: Fifty-four recreational runners were divided into 2 groups: healthy runners (CG, n = 27) and runners with patellofemoral pain (PFPG, n = 27). Kinematics during running were assessed using three-dimensional motion analysis system. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) were calculated to establish the correlation of rearfoot eversion with tibial and femur movements. FINDINGS: Greater peak rearfoot eversion was correlated with greater peak femur adduction in PFP runners. Greater peak rearfoot eversion was correlated with greater peak tibial internal rotation and tibial adduction in the PFPG and CG. Additionally, greater peak rearfoot eversion was correlated with greater tibial internal rotation range of motion in the PFPG and CG. No significant differences were found between the PFPG and CG for all kinematics variables. INTERPRETATION: Correlation between greater rearfoot eversion and greater peak hip adduction in the PFPG might be related to PFP persistence in runners with excessive rearfoot eversion, and indicates that treatment strategies aimed at controlling the movement of the rearfoot could help modify the symptoms.

Methods to assess patellofemoral joint stress: A systematic review.

Changes in patellofemoral joint (PFJ) stress are related to the development and course of PFJ dysfunctions. Different methods for PFJ stress calculation have been used, making the comparison of PFJ stress values across different studies difficult. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the methods for PFJ stress calculation and highlight the differences among the methods. A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science databases. Included studies examined PFJ stress in subjects with or without musculoskeletal conditions. Of 12,670 identified studies, 53 were included, with a total of 1134 subjects evaluated. The main differences among the methods to calculate PFJ stress were: i) method to calculate PFJ contact area; ii) method to calculate a constant (coefficient k) that defines the relation between quadriceps force and PFJ reaction force; iii) the inclusion of adjustments for sagittal plane forces. Considerable variability in PFJ stress results was observed. The greatest PFJ stress value was 55.03 MPa during a dance jump and the lowest value was 1.9 MPa during walking at the speed of 1.4 m/s. Most studies applied methods which use data from previous studies. However, methods which use data from their own participants for most parts of the calculation might be preferred to minimize potential errors. When direct measures are not possible, a standard method could be applied to facilitate comparisons among studies.

Peripheral Antinociception Induced by Aripiprazole Is Mediated by the Opioid System.

BACKGROUND: Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic drug used to treat schizophrenia and related disorders. Our previous study showed that this compound also induces antinociceptive effects. The present study aimed to assess the participation of the opioid system in this effect. METHODS: Male Swiss mice were submitted to paw pressure test and hyperalgesia was induced by intraplantar injection of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2, 2 µg). Aripiprazole was injected 10 min before the measurement. Naloxone, clocinnamox, naltrindole, nor-binaltorphimine, and bestatin were given 30 min before aripiprazole. Nociceptive thresholds were measured in the 3rd hour after PGE2 injection. RESULTS: Aripiprazole (100 µg/paw) injected locally into the right hind paw induced an antinociceptive effect that was blocked by naloxone (50 µg/paw), a nonselective opioid receptor antagonist. The role of µ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptors was investigated using the selective antagonists, clocinnamox (40 µg/paw), naltrindole (15, 30, and 60 µg/paw), and nor-binaltorphimine (200 µg/paw), respectively. The data indicated that only the δ-opioid receptor antagonist inhibited the peripheral antinociception induced by aripiprazole. Bestatin (400 µg), an aminopeptidase-N inhibitor, significantly enhanced low-dose (25 µg/paw) aripiprazole-induced peripheral antinociception. CONCLUSION: The results suggest the participation of the opioid system via δ-opioid receptor in the peripheral antinociceptive effect induced by aripiprazole.