Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of Silicon-Mediated Resistance in Maize against Maydis Leaf Blight.

Maydis leaf blight (MLB), caused by the necrotrophic fungus Bipolaris maydis, has caused considerable yield losses in maize production. The hypothesis that maize plants with higher foliar silicon (Si) concentration can be more resistant against MLB was investigated in this study. This goal was achieved through an in-depth analysis of the photosynthetic apparatus (parameters of leaf gas exchange chlorophyll (Chl) a fluorescence and photosynthetic pigments) changes in activities of defense and antioxidative enzymes in leaves of maize plants with (+Si; 2 mM) and without (-Si; 0 mM) Si supplied, as well as challenged and not with B. maydis. The +Si plants showed reduced MLB symptoms (smaller lesions and lower disease severity) due to higher foliar Si concentration and less production of malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and radical anion superoxide compared to -Si plants. Higher values for leaf gas exchange (rate of net CO2 assimilation, stomatal conductance to water vapor, and transpiration rate) and Chl a fluorescence (variable-to-maximum Chl a fluorescence ratio, photochemical yield, and yield for dissipation by downregulation) parameters along with preserved pool of chlorophyll a+b and carotenoids were noticed for infected +Si plants compared to infected -Si plants. Activities of defense (chitinase, ß-1,3-glucanase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, polyphenoloxidase, peroxidase, and lipoxygenase) and antioxidative (ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase) enzymes were higher for infected +Si plants compared to infected -Si plants. Collectively, this study highlights the importance of using Si to boost maize resistance against MLB considering the more operative defense reactions and the robustness of the antioxidative metabolism of plants along with the preservation of their photosynthetic apparatus.

Effect of 4-Ethylbenzaldehyde from the Volatilome of Annona muricata on Meloidogyne incognita.

The demand for new soil fumigants has increased as a result of more restrictive legislation regarding the use of pesticides. In the present study, the potent nematicidal activity of volatile organic compounds released by the Annona muricata leaf macerate was demonstrated. In addition, we searched in the A. muricata volatilome for a molecule with potential to be developed as a new fumigant nematicide. In the greenhouse, even the lowest concentration of soursop leaf macerate tested (1.0%) as a biofumigant caused a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in Meloidogyne incognita infectivity and reproduction when compared with the nontreated control (0%). Forty-one compounds were identified through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, of which three (sabinene, caryophyllene oxide, and 4-ethylbenzaldehyde) were selected for studies against the nematode. Among these compounds, in in vitro trails, only 4-ethylbenzaldehyde showed nematicidal activity at 250 µg ml-1. The effective doses of 4-ethylbenzaldehyde predicted to kill 50 and 95% of the M. incognita second-stage juvenile population after 48 h of exposure were 35 and 88 µg ml-1, respectively. In in vitro tests, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde at 150 µg ml-1 reduced M. incognita egg hatching to values similar (P > 0.05) to those of the commercial nematicide fluensulfone at a concentration of 200 µg ml-1. In plant experiments, as a soil fumigant, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde at a dose of 1 ml/liter of substrate had an effect similar (P > 0.05) to that of the commercial fumigant Dazomet (250 µg ml-1). Therefore, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde shows potential for development as a new nematicide.

Inflammasome Coordinates Senescent Chronic Wound Induced by Thalassophryne nattereri Venom.

Thalassophryne nattereri toadfish (niquim) envenomation, common in the hands and feet of bathers and fishermen in the north and northeast regions of Brazil, is characterized by local symptoms such as immediate edema and intense pain. These symptoms progress to necrosis that lasts for an extended period of time, with delayed healing. Wound healing is a complex process characterized by the interdependent role of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial and innate cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. Macrophages and neutrophils are actively recruited to clear debris during the inflammatory phase of wound repair, promoting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and in the late stage, macrophages promote tissue repair. Our hypothesis is that injury caused by T. nattereri venom (VTn) leads to senescent wounds. In this study, we provide valuable information about the mechanism(s) behind the dysregulated inflammation in wound healing induced by VTn. We demonstrate in mouse paws injected with the venom the installation of γH2AX/p16Ink4a-dependent senescence with persistent neutrophilic inflammation in the proliferation and remodeling phases. VTn induced an imbalance of M1/M2 macrophages by maintaining a high number of TNF-α-producing M1 macrophages in the wound but without the ability to eliminate the persistent neutrophils. Chronic neutrophilic inflammation and senescence were mediated by cytokines such as IL-1α and IL-1ß in a caspase-1- and caspase-11-dependent manner. In addition, previous blocking with anti-IL-1α and anti-IL-ß neutralizing antibodies and caspase-1 (Ac YVAD-CMK) and caspase-11 (Wedelolactone) inhibitors was essential to control the pro-inflammatory activity of M1 macrophages induced by VTn injection, skewing towards an anti-inflammatory state, and was sufficient to block neutrophil recruitment and senescence.

Ultrastructural Analysis of Cancer Cells Treated with the Radiopharmaceutical Radium Dichloride ([223Ra]RaCl2): Understanding the Effect on Cell Structure.

The use of alpha-particle (α-particle) radionuclides, especially [223Ra]RaCl2 (radium dichloride), for targeted alpha therapy is steadily increasing. Despite the positive clinical outcomes of this therapy, very little data are available about the effect on the ultrastructure of cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nanomechanical and ultrastructure effect of [223Ra] RaCl2 on cancer cells. To analyze the effect of [223Ra]RaCl2 on tumor cells, human breast cancer cells (lineage MDA-MB-231) were cultured and treated with the radiopharmaceutical at doses of 2 µCi and 0.9 µCi. The effect was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) combined with Raman spectroscopy. The results showed massive destruction of the cell membrane but preservation of the nucleus membrane. No evidence of DNA alteration was observed. The data demonstrated the formation of lysosomes and phagosomes. These findings help elucidate the main mechanism involved in cell death during α-particle therapy.

Evaluating Hydroxyapatite, Gold Nanoparticles, and Graphene-Copper as Bimodal Agents for X-ray and Computed Tomography.

A global need exists for new and more effective contrast agents for computed tomography and traditional X-ray modalities. Among the few options available nowadays, limitations imposed by industrial production, performance, and efficacy restrict the use and reduce the potential of both imaging techniques. The use of nanomaterials as new contrast agents for X-ray and computed tomography is an innovative and viable way to increase the options and enhance performance. In this study, we evaluated eight nanomaterials: hydroxyapatite doped with zinc (Zn-HA 10%); hydroxyapatite doped with strontium (Sr-HA 10%); hydroxyapatite without thermal treatment (HA 282 STT); thermally treated hydroxyapatite (HA 212 500 °C and HA 01.256 CTT 1000 °C); hydroxyapatite microspheres (HA microspheres); gold nanoparticles (AuNP); and graphene oxide doped with copper (Cu-GO). The results showed that for both imaging modalities; HA microspheres were the best option, followed by hydroxyapatite thermally treated at 1000 °C. The nanomaterials with the worst results were hydroxyapatite doped with zinc (Zn-HA 10%), and hydroxyapatite doped with strontium (Sr-HA 10%). Our data demonstrated the potential of using nanomaterials, especially HA microspheres, and hydroxyapatite with thermal treatment (HA 01.256 CTT 1000 °C) as contrast agents for X-ray and computed tomography.

Nano-Nutraceuticals for Health: Principles and Applications.

The use of nanotechnological products is increasing steadily. In this scenario, the application of nanotechnology in food science and as a technological platform is a reality. Among the several applications, the main use of this technology is for the development of foods and nutraceuticals with higher bioavailability, lower toxicity, and better sustainability. In the health field, nano-nutraceuticals are being used as supplementary products to treat an increasing number of diseases. This review summarizes the main concepts and applications of nano-nutraceuticals for health, with special focus on treating cancer and inflammation. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43450-022-00338-7.

Polymeric nanoparticles and nanomicelles of hydroxychloroquine co-loaded with azithromycin potentiate anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect.

The outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has put the world in an unprecedented scenario. To reestablish the world routine as promote the effective treatment of this disease, the world is looking for new (and old) drug that can efficiently kill the virus. In this study, we have developed two nanosystems: polymeric nanoparticles and nanomicelles-based on hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin. The nanosystem was fully characterized by AFM and DLS techniques. Also, the nanosystems were radiolabeled with 99mTc and pulmonary applied (installation) in vivo to evaluate the biological behavior. The toxicity of both nanosystem were evaluated in primary cells (FGH). Finally, both nanosystems were evaluated in vitro against the SARS-CoV-2. The results demonstrated that the methodology used to produce the nanomicelles and the nanoparticle was efficient, the characterization showed a nanoparticle with a spherical shape and a medium size of 390 nm and a nanomicelle also with a spherical shape and a medium size of 602 nm. The nanomicelles were more efficient (~ 70%) against SARS-CoV-2 than the nanoparticles. The radiolabeling process with 99mTc was efficient (> 95%) in both nanosystems and the pulmonary application demonstrated to be a viable route for both nanosystems with a local retention time of approximately, 24 h. None of the nanosystems showed cytotoxic effect on FGH cells, even in high doses, corroborating the safety of both nanosystems. Thus, claiming the benefits of the nanotechnology, especially with regard the reduced adverse we believe that the use of nanosystems for COVID-19 treatment can be an optimized choice. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40097-022-00476-3.

Inflammasome coordinates senescent chronic wound induced by Thalassophryne nattereri venom

Thalassophryne nattereri toadfish (niquim) envenomation, common in the hands and feet of bathers and fishermen in the north and northeast regions of Brazil, is characterized by local symptoms such as immediate edema and intense pain. These symptoms progress to necrosis that lasts for an extended period of time, with delayed healing. Wound healing is a complex process characterized by the interdependent role of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial and innate cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. Macrophages and neutrophils are actively recruited to clear debris during the inflammatory phase of wound repair, promoting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and in the late stage, macrophages promote tissue repair. Our hypothesis is that injury caused by T. nattereri venom (VTn) leads to senescent wounds. In this study, we provide valuable information about the mechanism(s) behind the dysregulated inflammation in wound healing induced by VTn. We demonstrate in mouse paws injected with the venom the installation of γH2AX/p16Ink4a-dependent senescence with persistent neutrophilic inflammation in the proliferation and remodeling phases. VTn induced an imbalance of M1/M2 macrophages by maintaining a high number of TNF-α-producing M1 macrophages in the wound but without the ability to eliminate the persistent neutrophils. Chronic neutrophilic inflammation and senescence were mediated by cytokines such as IL-1α and IL-1β in a caspase-1- and caspase-11-dependent manner. In addition, previous blocking with anti-IL-1α and anti-IL-β neutralizing antibodies and caspase-1 (Ac YVAD-CMK) and caspase-11 (Wedelolactone) inhibitors was essential to control the pro-inflammatory activity of M1 macrophages induced by VTn injection, skewing towards an anti-inflammatory state, and was sufficient to block neutrophil recruitment and senescence.

The Friend Within: Endophytic Bacteria as a Tool for Sustainability in Strawberry Crops.

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa, Duch.) is an important crop worldwide. However, since it is a highly demanding crop in terms of the chemical conditions of the substrate, a large part of strawberry production implies the application of large amounts of fertilizers in the production fields. This practice can cause environmental problems, in addition to increases in the fruit's production costs. In this context, applying plant growth-promoting bacteria in production fields can be an essential strategy, especially thanks to their ability to stimulate plant growth via different mechanisms. Therefore, this study aimed to test in vitro and in vivo the potential of bacteria isolated from strawberry leaves and roots to directly promote plant growth. The isolates were tested in vitro for their ability to produce auxins, solubilize phosphate and fix nitrogen. Isolates selected in vitro were tested on strawberry plants to promote plant growth and increase the accumulation of nitrogen and phosphorus in the leaves. The tested isolates showed an effect on plant growth according to biometric parameters. Among the tested isolates, more expressive results for the studied variables were observed with the inoculation of the isolate MET12M2, belonging to the species Brevibacillus fluminis. In general, bacterial inoculation induced strain-dependent effects on strawberry growth. In vitro and in vivo assays showed the potential use of the B. fluminis MET12M2 isolate as a growth promoter for strawberries.

MAOA uVNTR Genetic Variant and Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent multifactorial psychopathology affected by neurotransmitter levels. Monoamine Oxidase A (MAOA) influences several neural pathways by modulating these levels. This systematic review (per PRISMA protocol and PECOS strategy) endeavors to understand the MAOA uVNTR polymorphism influence on MDD and evaluate its 3R/3R and 3R* genotypic frequencies fluctuation in MDD patients from different populations. We searched the Web of Science, PubMed, Virtual Health Library, and EMBASE databases for eligible original articles that brought data on genotypic frequencies related to the MAOA uVNTR variant in patients with MDD. We excluded studies with incomplete data (including statistical data), reviews, meta-analyses, and abstracts. Initially, we found 43 articles. After removing duplicates and applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, seven articles remained. The population samples studied were predominantly Asians, with high 3R and 4R allele frequencies. Notably, we observed higher 3R/3R (female) and 3R* (male) genotype frequencies in the healthy control groups and higher 4R/4R (female) and 4R* (male) genotype frequencies in the MDD groups in the majority of different populations. Despite some similarities in the articles analyzed, there is still no consensus on the MAOA uVNTR variant's role in MDD pathogenesis.

Nanostructured Electrospun Polycaprolactone-Propolis Mats Composed of Different Morphologies for Potential Use in Wound Healing.

This study aimed to investigate different types of morphologies obtained using the electrospinning process to produce a material that enables wound healing while performing a controlled release. Using benign solvents, the authors prepared and characterised electrospun polycaprolactone mats loaded with propolis, a popular extract in traditional medicine with potential for skin repair. Different morphologies were obtained from distinct storage periods of the solution before electrospinning to investigate the effect of PCL hydrolysis (average diameters of fibres and beads: 159.2-280.5 nm and 1.9-5.6 µm, respectively). Phytochemical and FTIR analyses of the extract confirmed propolis composition. GPC and viscosity analyses showed a decrease in polymer molecular weight over the storage period (about a 70% reduction over 14 days) and confirmed that it was responsible for the nanostructure diversity. Moreover, propolis acted as a lubricant agent, affecting the spun solutions' viscosity and the thermal properties and hydrophilicity of the mats. All samples were within the value range of the water vapour transpiration rate of the commercial products (1263.08 to 2179.84 g/m2·day). Even though the presence of beads did not affect the propolis release pattern, an in vitro wound-healing assay showed that propolis-loaded mats composed of beaded fibres increased the cell migration process. Thus, these films could present the potential for use in wound dressing applications.

Tertiary Nanosystem Composed of Graphene Quantum Dots, Levofloxacin and Silver Nitrate for Microbiological Control.

BACKGROUND: Infectious diseases have the highest mortality rate in the world and these numbers are associated with scarce and/or ineffective diagnosis and bacterial resistance. Currently, with the development of new pharmaceutical formulations, nanotechnology is gaining prominence. METHODS: Nanomicelles were produced by ultrasonication. The particle size and shape were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and confirmed by dynamic light scattering, also thermogravimetric analysis was performed to evaluate the thermal stability. Finally, antibacterial activity has been performed. RESULTS: The results showed that a rod-shaped nanosystem, with 316.1 nm and PDI of 0.243 was formed. The nanosystem was efficient against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii with MIC inferior to 0.98 and a synergistic effect between silver graphene quantum dots and levofloxacin was observed. CONCLUSION: The nanosystem produced may rise as a promising agent against the bacterial threat, especially regarding bacterial resistance.

Autism Spectrum Disorders and Malocclusions: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.

Studies heretofore have shown inconsistent results on the link of ASD to malocclusion. Herein, we aimed to compare the prevalence of malocclusion among children and adolescents with ASD compared with non-ASD healthy counterparts through a systematic review. The electronic search focused on five databases, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, LILACS, and OpenGrey until January 2022, and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (PROSPERO No. CRD42022298023). Observational and intervention studies that compared occlusion characteristics of ASD individuals under 18 years old with healthy controls were included. Pairwise random effects meta-analyses of odds ratio (OR) were performed. Methodological quality was assessed by using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for cross-sectional studies. A total of thirteen studies were included for qualitative analysis, and seven for quantitative analysis. The results presented a great heterogeneity and moderate risk of bias; thus, it was not possible to state that there is a risk of malocclusion in individuals with ASD. Future studies should be carried out with strict criteria in the choice of samples, control group, and diagnosis of malocclusion in order to meet the necessary requirements for greater methodological quality.

High doses of graphene quantum dots impacts on microcirculation system: An observational study.

Graphene and its derivatives are in the edge of technology with a wide and diverse range of applications. In the last years, especially graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have had their biomedical application expanded in scope, mainly focused on cancer therapy, drug delivery and imaging. Although many studies have evaluated the application of this nanomaterial in biomedical field, only a few studies aimed to understand their biological impact in human health. In this regard, here we evaluated the impact of high doses of GQDs on the microcirculation of a healthy animal model to better assess risks of its use in humans. Our data show that successive applications of GQDs cause irreversible damage to the microcirculation. After seven days, a complete destruction of the microcirculation has been observed. In addition, GQDs showed substantial activity in human erythrocytes. Our findings suggest that risks associated with the use of GQDs, as well as all graphene derivatives, must be better understood, especially concerning biomedical application. A greater understanding of how GQDs impact body circulation, including the context of environmental and engineered nanosystems, is of paramount importance.

Natterin-Induced Neutrophilia Is Dependent on cGAS/STING Activation via Type I IFN Signaling Pathway.

Natterin is a potent pro-inflammatory fish molecule, inducing local and systemic IL-1ß/IL-1R1-dependent neutrophilia mediated by non-canonical NLRP6 and NLRC4 inflammasome activation in mice, independent of NLRP3. In this work, we investigated whether Natterin activates mitochondrial damage, resulting in self-DNA leaks into the cytosol, and whether the DNA sensor cGAS and STING pathway participate in triggering the innate immune response. Employing a peritonitis mouse model, we found that the deficiency of the tlr2/tlr4, myd88 and trif results in decreased neutrophil influx to peritoneal cavities of mice, indicative that in addition to MyD88, TRIF contributes to neutrophilia triggered by TLR4 engagement by Natterin. Next, we demonstrated that gpcr91 deficiency in mice abolished the neutrophil recruitment after Natterin injection, but mice pre-treated with 2-deoxy-d-glucose that blocks glycolysis presented similar infiltration than WT Natterin-injected mice. In addition, we observed that, compared with the WT Natterin-injected mice, DPI and cyclosporin A treated mice had a lower number of neutrophils in the peritoneal exudate. The levels of dsDNA in the supernatant of the peritoneal exudate and processed IL-33 in the supernatant of the peritoneal exudate or cytoplasmic supernatant of the peritoneal cell lysate of WT Natterin-injected mice were several folds higher than those of the control mice. The recruitment of neutrophils to peritoneal cavity 2 h post-Natterin injection was intensely impaired in ifnar KO mice and partially in il-28r KO mice, but not in ifnγr KO mice. Finally, using cgas KO, sting KO, or irf3 KO mice we found that recruitment of neutrophils to peritoneal cavities was virtually abolished in response to Natterin. These findings reveal cytosolic DNA sensors as critical regulators for Natterin-induced neutrophilia.

Nanomicelles of Radium Dichloride [223Ra]RaCl2 Co-Loaded with Radioactive Gold [198Au]Au Nanoparticles for Targeted Alpha-Beta Radionuclide Therapy of Osteosarcoma.

Alpha and beta particulate radiation are used for non-treated neoplasia, due to their ability to reach and remain in tumor sites. Radium-223 (223Ra), an alpha emitter, promotes localized cytotoxic effects, while radioactive gold (198Au), beta-type energy, reduces radiation in the surrounding tissues. Nanotechnology, including several radioactive nanoparticles, can be safely and effectively used in cancer treatment. In this context, this study aims to analyze the antitumoral effects of [223Ra]Ra nanomicelles co-loaded with radioactive gold nanoparticles ([198Au]AuNPs). For this, we synthesize and characterize nanomicelles, as well as analyze some parameters, such as particle size, radioactivity emission, dynamic light scattering, and microscopic atomic force. [223Ra]Ra nanomicelles co-loaded with [198Au]AuNPs, with simultaneous alpha and beta emission, showed no instability, a mean particle size of 296 nm, and a PDI of 0.201 (±0.096). Furthermore, nanomicelles were tested in an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. We observed a significant increase in tumor cell death using combined alpha and beta therapy in the same formulation, compared with these components used alone. Together, these results show, for the first time, an efficient association between alpha and beta therapies, which could become a promising tool in the control of tumor progression.

Adaptation and acceptability testing of the Expector® vibration vest in horses / Adaptação e teste de aceitabilidade do colete de vibração Expector® em equinos

The project is based on a test of a thoracic vibration vest prototype, adapted to equines by the Expector® vest's company, on healthy animals. Ten (10) equines were used in the project, male or female, adults, healthy, belonging to FMVZ-USP or private owners. Each animal went through two phases: A and B. Phase A consisted of the placement of the vest without turning on the vibrators, evaluating the animal's acceptability, facility, adaptation to the animal's body, and discomfort due to the vest's use. Phase B included the placement of the vest and turning on the vibrators, evaluating the animal's acceptability, reaction to the vibrators, and, if present, to which velocity/type of vibration, and the presence of adverse effects. Both phases were done three times on separate days. The behavioral parameters: "placement facility" and "adaptation to the animal's body" were observed. In phase B, the response to the vibration was classified from 0 to 5. The answer was evaluated on low and high intensities for the four vibration types. The heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) were also evaluated at the beginning and end of each repetition. The animals' HR was kept on normal, except for one animal on one day of the test. Concerning the RR, most animals presented moments of tachypnea. On the experiment's first day, 100% of grade Great to "facility of placement" and "adaptation to the animal's body" was obtained, but on days 2 and 3 this value dropped to 90% due to alterations in one animal's responses. Regarding vibration's responses, 77.3% were evaluated as no discomfort (grade 0), 17.1% little discomfort (grade 1), 3.3% medium discomfort (grade 2), 0.4% great discomfort (grade 3), 0.21% extreme discomfort (grade 4), and 1.6% non-acceptance of the vest (grade 5). Some possible changes on the prototype were also verified to be suggested to the manufacturer, such as the change of the buckle and the use of wireless control. Vest use appears promising for equine respiratory physiotherapy, considering the acceptability was good, and its efficiency on the expectoration of diseased animals must be tested.

O projeto consistiu no teste de um protótipo de colete de vibração torácica, adaptado aos equinos pela empresa do colete Expector®, em animais saudáveis. Foram utilizados 10 equinos, machos ou fêmeas, adultos, saudáveis, pertencentes à FMVZ-USP e a proprietários particulares. Cada animal passou por duas fases: A e B. A Fase A consistiu na colocação do colete sem ligar os vibradores, avaliando-se a aceitabilidade do animal; facilidade; adaptação ao corpo do animal e incômodo do mesmo à sua presença. Já a Fase B contava com a colocação do colete e funcionamento dos vibradores, avaliando-se a aceitabilidade do animal; reação aos vibradores e, se presente, a qual velocidade/tipo de vibração; presença de reações ou efeitos adversos. As duas fases foram realizadas em triplicata em dias separados. Foram observados os parâmetros comportamentais "facilidade de colocação" e "adaptação ao corpo do animal". Na fase B, a resposta à vibração foi classificada de 0 a 5. A resposta foi avaliada nas intensidades baixa e alta para os quatro diferentes tipos de vibração. Foram avaliadas também as frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (FR) no início e final de cada repetição. A FC dos animais se manteve dentro do intervalo de normalidade, com exceção de um animal em um dia de avaliação. Em relação à FR, a maioria apresentou momentos de taquipneia. No primeiro dia de experimento obteve-se 100% de avaliação Ótima para "facilidade de colocação" e "adaptação ao corpo do animal", mas nos dias 2 e 3 esse valor caiu para 90% devido à alteração na resposta de um animal. Em relação à resposta à vibração, 77,3% das respostas foram avaliadas como nenhum incômodo (nota 0), 17,1% pouco incômodo (nota 1), 3,3% médio incômodo (nota 2), 0,4% muito incômodo (nota 3), 0,21% incômodo extremo (nota 4) e 1,6% não aceitação do colete (nota 5). Foram também verificadas algumas possíveis mudanças no protótipo a serem sugeridas ao fabricante, como mudança do tipo de fivela e uso de controle sem fio. A utilização do colete parece ser muito promissora para a fisioterapia respiratória em equinos, visto que a aceitabilidade foi muito boa, devendo-se agora realizar a avaliação de sua eficácia na expectoração de animais enfermos.(AU)

Aggressiveness and Mycotoxin Production by Fusarium meridionale Compared with F. graminearum on Maize Ears and Stalks in the Field.

Fusarium meridionale and F. graminearum both cause Gibberella ear rot (GER) and Gibberella stalk rot (GSR) of maize in Brazil, but the former is much more common. Recent work with two isolates of each from maize suggested this dominance could be caused by greater aggressiveness and competitiveness of F. meridionale on maize. We evaluated pathogenicity and toxigenicity of 16 isolates of F. graminearum and 24 isolates of F. meridionale recovered from both wheat and maize. Strains were individually inoculated into ears of four maize hybrids in field trials. GER severity varied significantly between isolates within each species. Although ranges overlapped, the average GER severity induced by F. meridionale (25.2%) was two times as high overall as that induced by F. graminearum (12.8%) for isolates obtained from maize but was similar for those isolated from wheat (19.9 and 21.4%, respectively). In contrast, severity of GSR was slightly higher for F. graminearum (22.2%) than for F. meridionale (19.8%), with no effect of the host of origin. Deoxynivalenol and its acetylated form 15ADON were the main mycotoxins produced by F. graminearum (7/16 strains), and nivalenol toxin was produced by F. meridionale (17/24 strains). Six isolates of F. graminearum and three of F. meridionale also produced zearalenone. Results confirmed that F. meridionale from maize is, on average, more aggressive on maize but also suggested greater complexity related to diversity among the isolates within each species and their interactions with different hybrids. Further studies involving other components of the disease cycle are needed to more fully explain observed patterns of host dominance.

Natterin-induced neutrophilia is dependent on cGAS/STING activation via type i IFN signaling pathway

Natterin is a potent pro-inflammatory fish molecule, inducing local and systemic IL-1β/IL-1R1-dependent neutrophilia mediated by non-canonical NLRP6 and NLRC4 inflammasome activation in mice, independent of NLRP3. In this work, we investigated whether Natterin activates mitochondrial damage, resulting in self-DNA leaks into the cytosol, and whether the DNA sensor cGAS and STING pathway participate in triggering the innate immune response. Employing a peritonitis mouse model, we found that the deficiency of the tlr2/tlr4, myd88 and trif results in decreased neutrophil influx to peritoneal cavities of mice, indicative that in addition to MyD88, TRIF contributes to neutrophilia triggered by TLR4 engagement by Natterin. Next, we demonstrated that gpcr91 deficiency in mice abolished the neutrophil recruitment after Natterin injection, but mice pre-treated with 2-deoxy-d-glucose that blocks glycolysis presented similar infiltration than WT Natterin-injected mice. In addition, we observed that, compared with the WT Natterin-injected mice, DPI and cyclosporin A treated mice had a lower number of neutrophils in the peritoneal exudate. The levels of dsDNA in the supernatant of the peritoneal exudate and processed IL-33 in the supernatant of the peritoneal exudate or cytoplasmic supernatant of the peritoneal cell lysate of WT Natterin-injected mice were several folds higher than those of the control mice. The recruitment of neutrophils to peritoneal cavity 2 h post-Natterin injection was intensely impaired in ifnar KO mice and partially in il-28r KO mice, but not in ifnγr KO mice. Finally, using cgas KO, sting KO, or irf3 KO mice we found that recruitment of neutrophils to peritoneal cavities was virtually abolished in response to Natterin. These findings reveal cytosolic DNA sensors as critical regulators for Natterin-induced neutrophilia.

Copper Toxicity in Horses: Does it Exist?

Copper toxicity is thought to be a rare condition in horses. However, the number of cases diagnosed in Brazil is growing. This article aims to describe cases of copper toxicity involving horses from different geographic locations and discuss findings of physical examinations, differential diagnoses and potential causes. Five cases referred from 4 different properties where at least 15 other horses were affected were described. Hemolytic anemia and hemoglobinuria, presence of Heinz bodies and elevated aspartate aminotransferase and gamaglutamil transferase levels were detected in all cases. The diagnosis was based on clinical history and signs, laboratory tests results, copper level determination in feed and/or soil and histopathological findings. Two horses progressed to acute death; remaining horses responded to clinical management with or without blood transfusion, depending on disease severity. However, one of these horses, after several returns to the veterinary hospital, was euthanized due to complications. One horse was treated with ammonium tetrathiomolybdate. Two horses had several recurring episodes over the course of several months, an uncommon presentation in ruminants suffering from copper toxicity. Excess copper was associated with soil fertilization with poultry litter or treatment of previous or neighbor crops with copper-containing products. It can be concluded that copper toxicity does occur in horses and may arise from several sources and/or be associated with predisposing dietary factors. Given the growing number of cases, the condition should be included in the differential diagnosis list and proper preventive dietary and pasture fertilization measures adopted.