Emerging and legacy contaminants on the Brazilian southern coast (Santa Catarina): A multi-biomarker approach in oysters Crassostrea gasar (Adanson, 1757).

Coastal environments, such as those in the Santa Catarina State (SC, Brazil), are considered the primary receptors of anthropogenic pollutants. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the levels of emerging contaminants (ECs) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in indigenous Crassostrea gasar oysters from different regions of SC coast in the summer season (March 2022). Field collections were conducted in the São Francisco do Sul, Itajaí, Florianópolis and Laguna coastal zones. We analyzed the bioaccumulation levels of 75 compounds, including antibiotics (AB), endocrine disruptors (ED), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides. Furthermore, we assessed biomarker responses related to biotransformation, antioxidant defense, heat shock protection and oxidative damage in oysters' gills. Prevalence of ECs was observed in the central and southern regions, while the highest concentrations of POPs were detected in the central-northern regions of SC. Oysters exhibited an induction in biotransformation systems (cyp2au1 and cyp356a1, sult and GST activity) and antioxidant enzymes activities (SOD, CAT and GPx). Higher susceptibility to lipid peroxidation was observed in the animals from Florianópolis compared to other regions. Correlation analyses indicated possible associations between contaminants and environmental variables in the biomarker responses, serving as a warning related to climate change. Our results highlight the influence of anthropogenic activities on SC, serving as baseline of ECs and POPs levels in the coastal areas of Santa Catarina, indicating more critical zones for extensive monitoring, aiming to conserve coastal regions.

Prednisone and prednisolone effects on development, blood, biochemical and histopathological markers of Aquarana catesbeianus tadpoles.

Synthetic glucocorticoids are often found in surface waters and can cause harmful effects to aquatic organisms such as amphibians. In this work we evaluated the effects of the drugs prednisone (PD) and prednisolone (PL) on developmental, molecular, blood, biochemical and histological markers. Aquarana catesbeianus tadpoles were exposed for 16 days to environmentally relevant concentrations of 0, 0.1, 1 and 10 µg/L of both drugs. PD increased the transcript levels of the enzyme deiodinase III (Dio3), the hormones cortisol and T4 and delayed development. Changes in the thyroid gland occurred after tadpoles were exposed to both drugs, with a reduction in the diameter and number of follicles and an increase/or decrease in area. Also, both drugs caused a decrease in lymphocytes (L) and an increase in neutrophils (N), thrombocytes, the N:L ratio and lobed and notched erythrocytes. Increased activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase was observed after exposure to PD. Furthermore, both drugs caused an increase in the activity of the enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase. However, only PD caused oxidative stress in exposed tadpoles, evidenced by increased levels of malondialdehyde and carbonyl proteins. Both drugs caused an increase in inflammatory infiltrates, blood cells and melanomacrophages in the liver. Our results indicate that PD was more toxic than PL, affecting development and causing oxidative stress.

Integrating pollutant levels and biochemical biomarkers in oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae and Crassostrea gasar) indicates anthropic impacts on marine environments along the coast of Santa Catarina state, Brazil.

This study aimed to carry out a general diagnosis of the contamination of the coastal marine environment of the Santa Catarina state (SC, Brazil) by different classes of environmental pollutants, as well as to evaluate possible adverse effects of the contaminants on biochemical biomarkers of oysters, Crassostrea gasar and Crassostrea rhizophorae. 107 chemicals were evaluated in water, sediment and oyster samples from nine sites along the coastline of SC. We also examined various biochemical biomarkers in the oysters' gills and digestive glands to assess potential effects of contaminants. In general, the northern and central regions of the littoral of SC presented higher occurrences and magnitudes of contaminants than the southern region, which is probably related to higher urbanization of center and northern areas of the littoral. The biomarker analysis in the oysters reflected these contamination patterns, with more significant alterations observed in regions with higher levels of pollutants. Our results may serve as a first baseline for future and more extensive monitoring actions and follow-up of the degree of contamination in the state, allowing for inspection actions and management of areas most affected by marine pollutants.

Fungicides from rice cultivation (tebuconazole and azoxystrobin) alters biochemical and histological markers of hammertoad tadpoles (Boanafaber).

Tebuconazole (TBZ) and azoxystrobin (AZX) are fungicides frequently used in rice cultivation. Despite protecting crops against fungal diseases, these compounds can contaminate the natural environments close to the crops, exerting negative effects on non-target organisms, the present study aimed to characterize the contamination by fungicides of a river that flows in an area dominated by rice cultivation in the north of the state of Santa Catarina, SC, Brazil. Concentrations of TBZ and AZX found in the field were used to evaluate their negative effects on development, biochemical biomarkers and histopatology of the liver of a native tadpole species, the hammerfrog (Boana faber). Tadpoles were exposed for 16 days to the lowest (1.20 µg/L) and highest (2.60 µg/L) concentration of TBZ, lowest (0.70 µg/L) and highest (1.60 µg/L) concentration of AZX, and the mix of both fungicides at lowest and highest concentration of each found in field analyses. Exposure to the lower TBZ concentration and both concentrations of the Mix accelerated the development of tadpoles. AZX caused an increase in the activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST), carboxylesterase (CbE) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) in the liver, an increase in the levels of protein carbonyls (PC) in the liver and an increase in the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in muscle of tadpoles. TBZ, on the other hand, generated an increase in GST, G6PDH, PC and histopathological severity scores in liver and in muscle AChE activity. The effects were more intense in the groups exposed to the Mix of contaminants. No treatment altered brain AChE. The data showed that the fungicides from in rice cultivation found in natural aquatic environments around the crops pose risks to the health of the animals, compromising their metabolism and development.

Latex-Free Anesthesia for Craniosynostosis Surgery Associated With Xia-Gibbs Syndrome: A Case Report.

This case report describes the anesthetic management of a one-year-old patient with Xia-Gibbs syndrome, which is a rare genetic condition caused by a mutation in the AHDC1 gene. The procedure involved calvarial vault remodeling and fronto-orbital advancement to correct a left coronal craniosynostosis. In addition, the patient had a history of seizures and latex-fruit syndrome, which necessitated careful preoperative planning and management. Despite the difficulties provided by the patient's cranial abnormalities and the paucity of literature on anesthetic experiences with the condition, the treatment was completed successfully and without complications. Insights are offered about the anesthetic approach for this syndromic pediatric patient undergoing neurosurgery with a high risk of bleeding. It is important to understand and prepare for the perioperative implications of this disease in order to achieve a safe outcome.

Hybrid unorganized machines to estimate the number of hospital admissions caused by PM[Formula: see text] concentration.

Air pollution levels exceeding the recommended limit can be the main cause of illnesses that affect human health, mainly diseases of the respiratory system. Consequently, this high exposure can impact public health management, given the increase in hospital admissions. One of the most influential air pollution parameters related to respiratory diseases is particulate matter (PM) concentrations. Thus, this paper proposes to estimate hospital admissions due to respiratory diseases caused by PM concentration with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10 [Formula: see text]m (PM[Formula: see text]), using artificial neural networks. Three hybrid neural network models are developed by combining two architectures denoted unorganized machines: extreme learning machines and echo state networks. These models also comprise extension strategies that seek to improve the generalization capability and the variation in the nonlinear outputs. Case studies explore three cities' datasets from São Paulo state, Brazil: Cubatão, Campinas, and São Paulo, to assess the quality of the hospital admissions estimations obtained by applying the proposed models. Results demonstrate that the hybrid models outperform the previously developed standard approaches in several scenarios. An overall analysis shows that the hybrid models can be a suitable strategy considering the instance particularities, especially in large datasets.

Impact of HLA eplet mismatch load in immunological outcomes after living donor kidney transplantation.

INTRODUCTION: HLA eplets mismatches (eMM) have been associated with negative kidney outcomes after transplantation, such as the development of de novo donor-specific antibody (dnDSA), antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR), and early graft loss. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effects of the HLA eMM load on dnDSA development, ABMR, renal function, allograft survival and graft loss. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective study involved 159 living donor kidney transplant patients categorized into groups based on antigen HLA mismatches assessed traditionally and HLA eMM load. Patients had followed for at least one year. The EpViX online program was used to evaluate the HLA eMM load. Cox models were constructed to assess the risk of graft loss. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were carried out. The analyses had performed using the R program and p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: From all 159 patients, 28 (17.6%) lost their allografts. Rejection episodes occurred in 37.1% of patients, 13.6% of whom were ABMR. Patients with rejection episodes had higher HLA-AB (p = 0.032) and HLA-DR (p = 0.008) HLA eMM load, HLA-AB (p = 0.006) and HLA-DR (p = 0.009) antigens mismatches, and higher proportions of the following eMM in the HLA-DR locus: 70R eMM (p = 0.015), 70RE (p = 0.015), 74E (p = 0.015) and 48Q (p = 0.047). In multiple models, the presence of HLA-DR 70qq eMM (HR 3.75, 95% CI 1.47; 9.55) add an increase in creatinine levels at 1-year (HR 3.87, 95% CI 2.30, 6.53) were associated with the risk of graft loss. CONCLUSION: The HLA eMM load was related to episodes of rejection and allograft loss. The HLA-DR eMM was most strongly associated with a worse immunologic outcome than eMM mismatches for HLA-AB.

COVID-19 and Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review of Pathophysiological Interactions.

OBJECTIVE: To review the literature and synthesize evidence on pathophysiological interactions attributed to the simultaneous occurrence of COVID-19 and preeclampsia. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted from November (2021) to January (2022) to retrieve observational studies published on the PubMed, LILACS, SciELO Brazil and Google Scholar databases. The search was based on the descriptors [(eclampsia OR preeclampsia) AND (COVID-19)]. Quantitative studies that pointed to pathophysiological interactions were included. Literature reviews, studies with HIV participants, or with clinical approach only were excluded. The selection of studies was standardized and the evaluation was performed by pairs of researchers. RESULTS: In this review, 155 publications were retrieved; 16 met the inclusion criteria. In summary, the physiological expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors is physiologically increased in pregnant women, especially at the placental site. Studies suggest that the coronavirus binds to ACE-2 to enter the human cell, causing deregulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and in the ratio between angiotensin-II and angiotensin-1-7, inducing manifestations suggestive of preeclampsia. Furthermore, the cytokine storm leads to endothelial dysfunction, vasculopathy and thrombus formation, also present in preeclampsia. CONCLUSION: The studies retrieved in this review suggest that there is a possible overlap of pathophysiological interactions between COVID-19 and preeclampsia, which mainly involve ACE-2 and endothelial dysfunction. Given that preeclampsia courses with progressive clinical and laboratory alterations, a highly quality prenatal care may be able to detect specific clinical and laboratory parameters to differentiate a true preeclampsia superimposed by covid-19, as well as cases with hypertensive manifestations resulting from viral infection.

OBJETIVO: Revisar a literatura e sintetizar evidências sobre interações fisiopatológicas atribuídas à ocorrência simultânea de COVID-19 e pré-eclâmpsia. MéTODOS: : Uma revisão sistemática foi conduzida entre novembro (2021) a janeiro (2022) para recuperar estudos observacionais publicados no PubMed, LILACS, SciELO Brasil e Google scholar. A busca foi baseada nos descritores [(eclâmpsia OR pré-eclâmpsia) AND (COVID-19)]. Estudos quantitativos que apontaram interações fisiopatológicas foram incluídos. Estudos de revisão, com participante HIV e apenas com enfoque clínico foram excluídos. A seleção dos estudos foi padronizada com avaliação por duplas de pesquisadores. RESULTADOS: Nesta revisão, 155 publicações foram recuperadas; 16 preencheram os critérios de inclusão. Em síntese, a expressão fisiológica de receptores da enzima conversora da angiotensina-2 (ECA-2) é fisiologicamente potencializada em gestantes, especialmente no sítio placentário. Os estudos sugerem que o coronavírus se liga à ECA-2 para entrar na célula humana, ocasionando desregulação do sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona e da razão entre angiotensina-II e angiotensina-1-7, induzindo manifestações sugestivas de pré-eclâmpsia. Ademais, a tempestade de citocinas conduz à disfunção endotelial, vasculopatia e formação de trombos, também presentes na pré-eclâmpsia. CONCLUSãO:: Os estudos recuperados nesta revisão sugerem que a superposição de alterações fisiopatológicas entre a COVID-19 e a pré-eclâmpsia envolve, principalmente, a ECA-2 e disfunção endotelial. Tendo em vista que a pré-eclâmpsia cursa com alterações clínicas e laboratoriais progressivas, a atenção pré-natal de qualidade pode ser capaz de detectar parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais importantes para diferenciar a pré-eclâmpsia verdadeira sobreposta por COVID-19, bem como os casos que mimetizam a doença hipertensiva consequente à infecção viral.

COVID-19 and Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review of Pathophysiological Interactions / COVID-19 e pré-eclâmpsia: uma revisão sistemática de interações fisiopatológicas

Abstract Objective: To review the literature and synthesize evidence on pathophysiological interactions attributed to the simultaneous occurrence of COVID-19 and preeclampsia. Methods: A systematic review was conducted from November (2021) to January (2022) to retrieve observational studies published on the PubMed, LILACS, SciELO Brazil and Google Scholar databases. The search was based on the descriptors [(eclampsia OR preeclampsia) AND (COVID-19)]. Quantitative studies that pointed to pathophysiological interactions were included. Literature reviews, studies with HIV participants, or with clinical approach only were excluded. The selection of studies was standardized and the evaluation was performed by pairs of researchers. Results: In this review, 155 publications were retrieved; 16 met the inclusion criteria. In summary, the physiological expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors is physiologically increased in pregnant women, especially at the placental site. Studies suggest that the coronavirus binds to ACE-2 to enter the human cell, causing deregulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and in the ratio between angiotensin-II and angiotensin-1-7, inducing manifestations suggestive of preeclampsia. Furthermore, the cytokine storm leads to endothelial dysfunction, vasculopathy and thrombus formation, also present in preeclampsia. Conclusion: The studies retrieved in this review suggest that there is a possible overlap of pathophysiological interactions between COVID-19 and preeclampsia, which mainly involve ACE-2 and endothelial dysfunction. Given that preeclampsia courses with progressive clinical and laboratory alterations, a highly quality prenatal care may be able to detect specific clinical and laboratory parameters to differentiate a true preeclampsia superimposed by covid-19, as well as cases with hypertensive manifestations resulting from viral infection.

Resumo Objetivo: Revisar a literatura e sintetizar evidências sobre interações fisiopatológicas atribuídas à ocorrência simultânea de COVID-19 e pré-eclâmpsia. Métodos: Uma revisão sistemática foi conduzida entre novembro (2021) a janeiro (2022) para recuperar estudos observacionais publicados no PubMed, LILACS, SciELO Brasil e Google scholar. A busca foi baseada nos descritores [(eclâmpsia OR pré-eclâmpsia) AND (COVID-19)]. Estudos quantitativos que apontaram interações fisiopatológicas foram incluídos. Estudos de revisão, com participante HIV e apenas com enfoque clínico foram excluídos. A seleção dos estudos foi padronizada com avaliação por duplas de pesquisadores. Resultados: Nesta revisão, 155 publicações foram recuperadas; 16 preencheram os critérios de inclusão. Em síntese, a expressão fisiológica de receptores da enzima conversora da angiotensina-2 (ECA-2) é fisiologicamente potencializada em gestantes, especialmente no sítio placentário. Os estudos sugerem que o coronavírus se liga à ECA-2 para entrar na célula humana, ocasionando desregulação do sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona e da razão entre angiotensina-II e angiotensina-1-7, induzindo manifestações sugestivas de pré-eclâmpsia. Ademais, a tempestade de citocinas conduz à disfunção endotelial, vasculopatia e formação de trombos, também presentes na pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os estudos recuperados nesta revisão sugerem que a superposição de alterações fisiopatológicas entre a COVID-19 e a pré-eclâmpsia envolve, principalmente, a ECA-2 e disfunção endotelial. Tendo em vista que a pré-eclâmpsia cursa com alterações clínicas e laboratoriais progressivas, a atenção pré-natal de qualidade pode ser capaz de detectar parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais importantes para diferenciar a pré-eclâmpsia verdadeira sobreposta por COVID-19, bem como os casos que mimetizam a doença hipertensiva consequente à infecção viral.

Oxidative status of Ctenomys flamarioni (Rodentia: Ctenomyidae) in natural areas with different levels of anthropic activity in southern Brazil.

Rampant urbanization in coastal environments turns areas close to the seafront into a highly impacted ecosystem, possibly affecting the health and well-being of resident animal species. The tuco-tuco Ctenomys flamarioni is an endemic and endangered subterranean mammal from southern Brazil, and the anthropic influence was considered one of the main threats to the species. In this context, the present study aimed to investigate the patterns of oxidative status of the species in natural areas with different levels of anthropogenic disturbance. We evaluated two populations of C. flamarioni, one located in an area with intense anthropogenic impact due to urbanization and tourist activity, and the other in a non-impacted area. Oxidative injury parameters (lipid peroxidation and carbonylated protein levels), and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glutathione S-transferase and carboxylesterase were measured. Individuals inhabiting the impacted area had lower G6PDH activity and higher levels of carbonylated proteins. This combination of higher level of oxidative damage and lower antioxidant activity is an indication that the oxidative status of animals in the impacted population is possibly being affected as a consequence of anthropogenic activities in this environment. The values of the parameters obtained in the current study can be used as a reference of the oxidative state of C. flamarioni in future studies with tuco-tucos.

Influence of temperature on the biomarker responses of bullfrog tadpoles (Lithobates catesbeianus) to 2-hydroxyatrazine exposure.

The influence of temperature (25 and 32 °C) on the biomarker responses of bullfrog tadpoles (Lithobates catesbeianus) to different concentrations of the atrazine metabolite 2-hydroxyatrazine (2-HA, 0, 10, 50 and 200 ng.L-1, 16 days), was evaluated. Temperature affected the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and acetylcholinesterase. The activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and carboxylesterase presented no alterations. Frequencies of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities were also not altered. 2-HA decreased SOD activity at 25 °C and caused histopathological changes in the liver and the kidney at both temperatures, with the kidney being more affected by the combination of higher temperature and 2-HA exposure, presenting glomerular shrinkage and an increase in Bowman's space. Our results indicate that at environmentally relevant concentrations, 2-HA can cause changes in biomarker responses as well as in the morphology of liver and kidney in L. catesbeianus tadpoles. Temperature has an important influence on biomarker response and histopathological alterations.

Using climate reanalysis and remote sensing-derived data to create the basis for predicting the occurrence of algal blooms, harmful algal blooms and toxic events in Santa Catarina, Brazil.

This study aimed to form a basis for future predictive modeling efforts in support of the harmful algal blooms (HAB) surveillance program currently in force in the Brazilian State of Santa Catarina (SC). Data from monitoring toxin-producing algae were merged with both meteorological and oceanographic data and analyzed. Data from four sources were used in this study: climate reanalysis (air temperature, pressure, cloud cover, precipitation, radiation, U and V winds); remote sensing (chlorophyll concentration and sea surface temperature); Oceanic Niño Index; and HAB monitoring data (phytoplankton counts and toxin levels in shellfish samples obtained from 39 points located in shellfish farms distributed along the SC coastline). This study analyzed the period from 2007-01-01 to 2019-12-31 (7035 records in the HAB database) and used descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses to draw correlations among environmental parameters and the occurrence of algal blooms (AB), HAB and toxic events. Dinophysis spp. AB were the most registered type of event and tended to occur during the late autumn and winter months. These events were associated with high atmospheric pressure, predominance of westerly and southerly winds, low solar radiation and low sea and air temperature. An inverted pattern was observed for Pseudo-nitzschia spp. AB, which were mostly registered during the summer and early autumn months. These results give evidence that the patterns of occurrence of highly prevalent toxin-producing microalgae reported worldwide, such as the Dinophysis AB during the summer, differ along the coast of SC. Our findings also show that meteorological data, such as wind direction and speed, atmospheric pressure, solar radiation and air temperature, might all be key predictive modeling input parameters, whereas remote sensing estimates of chlorophyll, which are currently used as a proxy for the occurrence of AB, seem to be a poor predictor of HAB in this geographic area.

Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Prediction in People Living With HIV: A Cross-sectional Study.

ABSTRACT: People living with HIV (PWH) experience an accelerated aging process. There is no anthropometric predictive model for appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) in PWH. This study develops anthropometric models to predict and validate ASM measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in PWH; DXA scans were obtained for 125 PWH (male = 74; age >18 years) on antiretroviral therapy. Fat mass ratio was used for lipodystrophy diagnosis. A multiple stepwise linear regression considered ASM DXA as the dependent variable and validated by PRESS method. A high power of determination and low standard estimate error were found for ASM DXA -predicted (adjusted r2 = 0.84 to 0.87, standard estimate error = 1.7-1.6 kg) and high PRESS validation coefficients (Q 2PRESS = 0.84-0.86, S PRESS = 1.7-1.6 kg). The variables included were lipodystrophy diagnosis, medial calf circumference, sex, and total body weight. We present novel, reliable, and validated anthropometric models to predict ASM DXA in PWH.

Multicompartment body composition analysis in older adults: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: During aging, changes occur in the proportions of muscle, fat, and bone. Body composition (BC) alterations have a great impact on health, quality of life, and functional capacity. Several equations to predict BC using anthropometric measurements have been developed from a bi-compartmental (2-C) approach that determines only fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM). However, these models have several limitations, when considering constant density, progressive bone demineralization, and changes in the hydration of the FFM, as typical changes during senescence. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to propose and validate a new multi-compartmental anthropometric model to predict fat, bone, and musculature components in older adults of both sexes. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 100 older adults of both sexes. To determine the dependent variables (fat mass [FM], bone mineral content [BMC], and appendicular lean soft tissue [ALST]) whole total and regional dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body scans were performed. Twenty-nine anthropometric measures and sex were appointed as independent variables. Models were developed through multivariate linear regression. Finally, the predicted residual error sum of squares (PRESS) statistic was used to measure the effectiveness of the predicted value for each dependent variable. RESULTS: An equation was developed to simultaneously predict FM, BMC, and ALST from only four variables: weight, half-arm span (HAS), triceps skinfold (TriSK), and sex. This model showed high coefficients of determination and low estimation errors (FM: R2adj: 0.83 and SEE: 3.16; BMC: R2adj: 0.61 and SEE: 0.30; ALST: R2adj: 0.85 and SEE: 1.65). CONCLUSION: The equations provide a reliable, practical, and low-cost instrument to monitor changes in body components during the aging process. The internal cross-validation method PRESS presented sufficient reliability in the model as an inexpensive alternative for clinical field use.

Effects of the herbicide ametryn on development and thyroidogenesis of bullfrog tadpoles (Aquarana catesbeiana) under different temperatures.

Thyroid hormones (TH) are essential for the metamorphosis of amphibians and their production can be influenced by environmental stressors, such as temperature fluctuations, and exposure to aquatic pollutants, such as herbicides. In the present study we evaluated the influence of different temperatures (25 and 32 °C) on the effects of the herbicide ametryn (AMT, 0 - control, 10, 50 and 200 ng.L-1) for 16 days on thyroidogenesis of bullfrog tadpoles. Higher temperature and AMT exposure caused a delay in the development of tadpoles, despite no differences were noted in weight gain and total length of the animals. Levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were not altered neither by AMT nor by temperature, but the highest temperature caused a decrease in total area and number of follicles in the thyroid gland. Transcript levels of thyroid hormone receptors alpha and beta (TRα and TRß) and iodothyronine deiodinase 3 (DIO3) were lower at 32 °C, which is consistent with developmental delay at the higher temperature. Tadpoles exposed to 200 ng.L-1 of AMT at 25 °C also presented delayed development, which was consistent with lower TRα and DIO3 transcript levels. Lower levels of estradiol were noted in tadpoles exposed to AMT at the higher temperature, being also possibly related to a developmental delay. This study demonstrates that higher temperature and AMT exposure impair thyroidgenesis in bullfrog tadpoles, disrupting metamorphosis.

Handgrip strength asymmetry cut points to identify slow gait speed in six low- and middle-income countries: A cross-sectional analysis with 12,669 older adults.

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength (HGS) asymmetry is associated with slow gait speed. Both mark muscle dysfunction, potential risk of falls, and adverse health outcomes. This association was found in older adults from high-income countries, but not yet studied in low- and middle-income countries. Moreover, there is no HGS asymmetry referential to identify the disabling process. Thus, our study aims to verify the association of HGS asymmetry with slowness in older adults from six low- and middle-income countries and to propose cut points to slowness. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with data from 12,669 older adults (≥60 years) of the Study on Global Aging and Adult Health (SAGE) conducted in six low- and middle-income countries were analyzed. Based in the difference between upper body sides HGS (asymmetry), participants were categorized in groups as 0.0-10.0% (reference group), 10.1-20.1%, 20.1-30.0% or >30.0%. Slow gait speed was established as <0.59 (men) and <0.51 (women) m/s. Associations of HGS asymmetry with gait speed were ascertained with logistic regression. HGS asymmetry index "[(HGS asymmetry*HGS)/(BMI*Age)]*100" cut points to identify slowness were generated with the ROC curve and Youden index (α = 5%). RESULTS: Compared to HGS reference group, those with HGS asymmetry of 10.1-20%, 20.1-30.0% and >30.0% had a superior odds for slowness [1.18(CI:1.02,1.42); 1.17(CI: 0.97; 1.44); and 1.21(CI:1.03;1.43), respectively]. HGS asymmetry index cut points to identify slowness were ≤1.14 (women) and ≤1.77 (men). CONCLUSIONS: HGS asymmetry association with slowness is present in economically disadvantaged countries. We proposed a new index for impaired muscle function with acceptable sensibility and specificity.

Fipronil impairs the GABAergic brain responses of Nile Tilapia during the transition from normoxia to acute hypoxia.

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is one of the main neurotransmitters involved in the adaptation processes against the damage that hypoxia can cause to the brain. Due to its antagonist action on GABA receptors, the insecticide fipronil can turn the fish more susceptible to the negative effects of hypoxia. This study aimed to understand better if fipronil affects these GABAergic responses of Tilapia ahead to hypoxia. Oreochromis Niloticus (Nile Tilapia) were exposed for 3 and 8 h to fipronil (0.0, 0.1, and 0.5 µg.L-1 ) under normoxia (dissolved O2 > 6 mg.L-1 ) and moderate hypoxia (dissolved O2 < 2 mg.L-1 ) conditions. Briefly, hypoxia caused opposite effects on the gene transcription of the evaluated ionotropic and metabotropic GABA receptors. Unexpectedly, we obtained reduced HIF1A mRNA and brain GABA levels, mostly in the first 3 h of the experiment, for the hypoxic group compared with the normoxia one. Besides that, we also demonstrated that the insecticide fipronil impairs the brain GABAergic signaling of a hypoxia-tolerant fish during the transition from a normoxic to an acute hypoxic state. Thus, these results predict the relevant impact on the brain metabolic adaptations of fishes exposed to such stressful conditions in an aquatic environment, as well as the effects of fipronil in the GABAergic responses to hypoxia, which in turn may have ecological and physiological significance to hypoxia-tolerant fishes exposed to this insecticide.

Longitudinal evaluation of trifocal and extended depth of focus lenses implantation using standard automated perimetry parameters.

PURPOSE: To evaluate reliability and global indices parameters from standard automated perimetry (SAP) in normal eyes undergoing phacoemulsification cataract surgery with implantation of trifocal or extended depth of focus intraocular lens (IOL). METHODS: Prospective study to evaluate the effect of trifocal IOL AcrySof IQ PanOptix® and extended depth of focus intraocular lens (EDOF) Tecnis Symfony® IOL implantation on visual field parameters. Patients underwent SAP pre- and postoperatively. Reliability indices (false negative rate-FN, false positive rate-FP), global indices (foveal sensitivity threshold, visual field index-VFI, standard pattern deviation-PSD, mean deviation MD) and test duration were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 23 eyes from 13 patients were in the trifocal IOL group and a total of 22 eyes from 14 patients were in the EDOF group. The following results were obtained by analyzing pre- and postoperative SAP of EDOF IOL: the rate of change of FN was 1.95/1.41% (p = 0.61); FP 1.64/1.27 (p = 0.60); MD - 1.60/- 1.08 dB (p = 0.15); foveal sensitivity was 34.5/33.9 dB (p = 0.41); VFI 98.5/98.4% (p > 0.99); PSD 1.85/1.86 (p = 0.07); and for test duration 305.81/298.36 s (p = 0.35); all respectively. Analysis of pre- and postoperative parameters of trifocal IOL were the rates of change of FN 1.22/1.83% (p = 0.29); FP 1.65/1.48% (p = 0.95); MD - 1.55/- 1.37 dB (p = 0.19); foveal sensitivity 33.9/34.9 dB (p = 0.47); VFI 98.6/98.3% (p = 0.62); PSD 1.58/2.05 (p = 0.02); and test duration 297.17/298.57 s (p = 0.87); all respectively. CONCLUSION: We identified a change in the PSD parameters in the trifocal IOL group. No other significant changes were identified in SAP parameters after implantation of trifocal AcrySof IQ PanOptix® and EDOF Tecnis Symfony® IOL. Longitudinal evaluation showed no changes in SAP after Trifocal and EDOF IOL implantation in normal subjects.

Acute and chronic cardiometabolic responses induced by resistance training with blood flow restriction in HIV patients.

Resistance training with blood flow restriction (RTBFR) allows physically impaired people living with HIV (PWH) to exercise at lower intensities than traditional resistance training (TRT). But the acute and chronic cardiac and metabolic responses of PWH following an RTBFR protocol are unknown. The objective was to compare the safety of acute and chronic effects on hemodynamic and lipid profiles between TRT or RTBFR in PWH. In this randomized control trial, 14 PWH were allocated in RTBFR (GRTBFR; n = 7) or TRT (GTRT; n = 7). Both resistance training protocols had 36 sessions (12 weeks, three times per week). Protocol intensity was 30% (GRTBFR) and 80% (GTRT). Hemodynamic (heart rate, blood pressure) and lipid profile were acutely (rest and post exercise 7th, 22nd, and 35th sessions) and chronically (pre and post-program) recorded. General linear models were applied to determine group * time interaction. In the comparisons between groups, the resistance training program showed acute adaptations: hemodynamic responses were not different (p > 0.05), regardless of the assessment session; and chronicles: changes in lipidic profile favors GRTBFR, which significantly lower level of total cholesterol (p = 0.024), triglycerides (p = 0.002) and LDL (p = 0.030) compared to GTRT. RTBFR and TRT induced a similar hemodynamic adaptation in PWH, with no significant risks of increased cardiovascular stress. Additionally, RTBFR promoted better chronic adequacy of lipid profile than TRT. Therefore, RTBFR presents a safe resistance training alternative for PWH.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02783417; Date of registration: 26/05/2016.

Physical Training Reduces Chronic Airway Inflammation and Mediators of Remodeling in Asthma.

Several benefits of aerobic training for asthmatic patients have been demonstrated. However, its effects on systemic inflammation and on airway remodeling mediators and lung mechanics are unknown. This prospective study included 21 intermittent and mild asthma patients, and as primary outcomes, the evaluation of pro- and anti-inflammatory and pro- and antifibrotic mediators in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and blood were performed, beyond the cell counting in blood and in induced sputum. Aerobic training was performed for 3 months, 3 times per week. Aerobic training increased the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines and of antifibrotic mediators in the breath condensate: IL-1ra (p = 0.0488), IL-10 (p = 0.0048), relaxin-3 (p = 0.0019), and klotho (p < 0.0043), respectively. Similarly, in plasma, increased levels of IL-1ra (p = 0.0147), IL-10 (p < 0.0001), relaxin-3 (p = 0.004), and klotho (p = 0.0023) were found. On contrary, reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the breath condensate, IL-1ß (p = 0.0008), IL-4 (p = 0.0481), IL-5 (p < 0.0001), IL-6 (p = 0.0032), IL-13 (p = 0.0013), and TNF-α (p = 0.0001) and profibrotic markers VEGF (p = 0.0017) and TSLP (p = 0.0056) were found. Similarly, in plasma, aerobic training significantly reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1ß (p = 0.0008), IL-4 (p = 0.0104), IL-5 (p = 0.0001), IL-6 (p = 0.006), IL-13 (p = 0.0341), and TNF-α (p = 0.0003) and of profibrotic markers VEGF (p = 0.0009) and TSLP (p < 0.0076). Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was reduced after the intervention (p = 0.0313). Regarding inflammatory cells in sputum, there was a reduction in total cells (p = 0.008), eosinophils (p = 0.009), and macrophages (p = 0.020), as well as of blood eosinophils (p = 0.0203) and lymphocytes (p = 0.0198). Aerobic training positively modulates chronic airway inflammation and remodeling mediators, beyond to improve systemic inflammation in intermittent and mild asthmatic patients.