Passaggio on chorists' voice range profile: preliminary study of frequency and intensity. / Nota de passagem no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas: estudo preliminar de frequência e intensidade.

PURPOSE: To analyze the passaggio in the voice range profile of choristers, by identifying the fundamental frequencies and intensities, both in the change to the high and low registers, comparing them, by voice types. METHOD: 67 choristers participated, mean age of 27.79 (± 7.50) years old, of the following voice types: soprano (n = 20), alto (n = 17), tenor (n = 15) and bass (n = 15). For data collection and analysis, the Vocalgram software (CTS Informática) was used, which recorded the emission of the vowel / Ɛ / in ascending and descending glissando, up to the lowest and highest note in the weakest and strongest intensities possible. RESULTS: The values of frequencies and respective intensities of the passaggio were identified in ascending and descending, strong and weak emissions in all voice types. There was a higher occurrence of voice break in the high voices, compared to the low ones. The average values ​​of the frequencies found corresponded to different tones from those established in the literature for all voice types. CONCLUSION: The passaggio identified in the vocal range profile of choristers, based on their frequencies and intensities were more frequent in soprano na tenor, compared to alto and bass, in changes to the low and high registers.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a nota de passagem no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas, pela identificação das frequências fundamentais e intensidades, tanto na mudança para o registro agudo quanto para o grave, comparando-as, por naipe. MÉTODO: Participaram 67 coristas, com média de idade de 27,79 (±7,50) anos, dos naipes: soprano (n=20), contralto (n=17), tenor (n=15) e baixo (n=15). Para coleta e análise dos dados utilizou-se o software Vocalgrama (CTS Informática) no qual foi realizada a gravação da emissão da vogal /Ɛ/ em glissando ascendente e descendente, até às frequências mais grave e mais aguda, nas intensidades mais fraca e mais forte possíveis. RESULTADOS: Foram identificados os valores das frequências e respectivas intensidades das notas de passagem nas emissões ascendentes e descendentes fortes e fracas nos quatro naipes. Houve maior ocorrência de identificação de quebra nas vozes agudas, comparativamente às mais graves. Os valores médios das frequências encontradas foram correspondentes a notas diferentes das estabelecidas na literatura para todos os naipes. CONCLUSÃO: As notas de passagem identificadas no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas, a partir de suas frequências e intensidades, obtiveram maior ocorrência nos naipes soprano e tenor, comparativamente ao contralto e baixo, nas mudanças para os registros graves e agudos.

Nota de passagem no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas: estudo preliminar de frequência e intensidade / Passaggio on chorists' voice range profile: preliminary study of frequency and intensity

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a nota de passagem no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas, pela identificação das frequências fundamentais e intensidades, tanto na mudança para o registro agudo quanto para o grave, comparando-as, por naipe. Método Participaram 67 coristas, com média de idade de 27,79 (±7,50) anos, dos naipes: soprano (n=20), contralto (n=17), tenor (n=15) e baixo (n=15). Para coleta e análise dos dados utilizou-se o software Vocalgrama (CTS Informática) no qual foi realizada a gravação da emissão da vogal /Ɛ/ em glissando ascendente e descendente, até às frequências mais grave e mais aguda, nas intensidades mais fraca e mais forte possíveis. Resultados Foram identificados os valores das frequências e respectivas intensidades das notas de passagem nas emissões ascendentes e descendentes fortes e fracas nos quatro naipes. Houve maior ocorrência de identificação de quebra nas vozes agudas, comparativamente às mais graves. Os valores médios das frequências encontradas foram correspondentes a notas diferentes das estabelecidas na literatura para todos os naipes. Conclusão As notas de passagem identificadas no perfil de extensão vocal de coristas, a partir de suas frequências e intensidades, obtiveram maior ocorrência nos naipes soprano e tenor, comparativamente ao contralto e baixo, nas mudanças para os registros graves e agudos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the passaggio in the voice range profile of choristers, by identifying the fundamental frequencies and intensities, both in the change to the high and low registers, comparing them, by voice types. Method 67 choristers participated, mean age of 27.79 (± 7.50) years old, of the following voice types: soprano (n = 20), alto (n = 17), tenor (n = 15) and bass (n = 15). For data collection and analysis, the Vocalgram software (CTS Informática) was used, which recorded the emission of the vowel / Ɛ / in ascending and descending glissando, up to the lowest and highest note in the weakest and strongest intensities possible. Results The values of frequencies and respective intensities of the passaggio were identified in ascending and descending, strong and weak emissions in all voice types. There was a higher occurrence of voice break in the high voices, compared to the low ones. The average values ​​of the frequencies found corresponded to different tones from those established in the literature for all voice types. Conclusion The passaggio identified in the vocal range profile of choristers, based on their frequencies and intensities were more frequent in soprano na tenor, compared to alto and bass, in changes to the low and high registers.

Effects of the Voiced Tongue Trill Technique in Glissandos on the Voice Range Profile of Choir Members: A Preliminary Study.

The objective of this study was to verify the immediate effect of the voiced tongue trill technique in ascending and descending glissandos on the voice range profile of choir members. A total of 25 sopranos, mezzo-sopranos, contraltos, tenors, and baritones participated in the study. They were choir members, aged 20 to 45 years, with no voice symptoms, and able to perform the voiced tongue trill technique. Their voice range profile was analyzed before and after performing the ascending and descending technique for 2 and 5 minutes. The maximum fundamental frequency values in the study groups increased after performing the ascending and descending technique for 2 minutes (P = 0.001) and 5 minutes (P = 0.003). The range in Hz increased after 2 minutes (P = 0.010) and 5 minutes (P = 0.050) of the ascending technique and after 2 minutes (P = 0.001) of the descending technique, and the minimum fundamental frequency mean value suffered interference from the type of technique (ascending/descending). The immediate effects of VTTT in glissandos on the VRP of choir members' considering the two factors: condition and time, in ascending and descending glissandos for 2 and 5 minutes increased the maximum frequency and the range in Hz of choristers. Regarding volume levels results, no difference was found in intensity after applying the technique.

Reflexões bioéticas sobre vida e saúde na região amazônica / Bioethical reflections on life and health in the Amazonian region / Reflexiones bioéticas sobre la vida y la salud en la región amazónica

Resumo Este trabalho aborda a complexa relação humana com o ambiente, preconizando as relações vitais estabelecidas pela própria natureza para subsistir. Para isso, realiza-se pesquisa exploratória sobre bioética ambiental, estruturada a partir de fundamentos filosóficos. Com uma visão sistêmica, procura-se construir e consolidar, de maneira dedutiva, uma ética prática que estimule a impreterível preservação da região amazônica. Delineia-se, então, uma revisão literária narrativa, com destaque para os aspectos histórico-mitológicos da Amazônia, desmatamento e queimadas, e legislação correlacionada e agravos à saúde, ressaltando a importância do diagnóstico interdisciplinar. Como resultado, incita-se a discussão sobre os impactos das atitudes humanas, considerando os vínculos de prevenção e responsabilidade postulados nos valores de bem, justiça e equilíbrio, e tendo consciência de que a harmonia e o cuidar são princípios inerentes à própria existência.

Abstract This work approaches the complex relationship between humans and the environment, preconizing the vital relationships established by the nature itself to subsist. To that end, exploratory research on environmental bioethics, structured from philosophical fundaments, was carried out. With a systemic point of view, it seeks to build and consolidate, deductively, a practical ethic that stimulates the necessary preservation of the Amazonian region. It designs, then, a narrative literary review, focusing on historical-mythological aspects of Amazon, deforestation and fires, and laws regarding health problems, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary diagnosis. As a result, it urges the discussion on the impacts of human activities, considering links of prevention and responsibility based on values of goodness, justice, and equilibrium, and keeping in mind that harmony and care are principles inherent to existence itself.

Resumen Este trabajo discute la compleja relación entre el ser humano y el medioambiente, preconizando las relaciones vitales establecidas por la propia naturaleza para su persistencia. Para ello, se realiza una investigación exploratoria sobre bioética ambiental a partir de fundamentos filosóficos. Con una mirada sistémica, se propone construir y consolidar deductivamente una ética práctica que impulse la imperativa preservación de la Amazonía. Enseguida, se esboza una revisión literaria narrativa con énfasis en los aspectos histórico-mitológicos de la Amazonía, deforestación e incendios, y la legislación y los problemas de salud correlacionados enfatizando la importancia del diagnóstico interdisciplinario. En los resultados se plantean los impactos de las actitudes humanas teniendo en cuenta los vínculos de prevención y responsabilidad postulados en los valores de bien, justicia y equilibrio, con la concientización de que la armonía y el cuidado son los principios inherentes a la propia existencia.

Immediate Effect of the Finger-Kazoo Technique Associated with Glissandos in the Voice of Individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the immediate effect of the Finger Kazoo technique associated with glissandos in the voice of individuals with Parkinson's disease. METHOD: Thirty subjects with Parkinson's Disease comprised of 15 men and 15 women with a mean age of 63.8 years (± 6.88) and mean time of diagnosis of 97.33 (± 63.53) months, all with preserved cognition. The subjects' voice range profile (VRP), speech range profile (SRP), and the maximum phonation time were assessed, before and after applying the Finger Kazoo technique associated with ascending and descending glissando. After the technique, a vocal satisfaction questionnaire was completed. RESULTS: After the applied technique there was an increase in the minimum and maximum fundamental frequency recorded respectively in the SRP and in the VRP; there was an increase in the vocal range (measured in Hertz and semitones) of the women, recorded in the VRP; in the male population, there was an increase in maximum phonation time. A higher percentage of positive references to vocal improvement was observed after the exercise. CONCLUSION: In patients with Parkinson's Disease, the Finger Kazoo with glissando technique promoted an increase in the minimum fundamental frequency of the SRP and in the vocal extensions of women, as well as increasing the maximum phonatory time of men. In addition, patients reported satisfaction with the use of the technique and its results.

Minor Structural Alterations of the Vocal Fold Cover: Vocal Quality before and after Treatment.

Introduction Minor structural alterations of the vocal fold cover are important causes of dysphonia. The variability in the type of alteration and the grade of vocal deviation affects the definition of the conduit and the results of treatment. Objective To characterize the occurrence, the selected treatments adopted and vocal quality before and after treatment in patients with minor structural alterations of the vocal folds cover. Methods This was a cross-sectional study based on the records of patients treated by an interdisciplinary team at the laryngology outpatient clinic of a public university hospital from 2010 to 2018. Data collection consisted of access to a database of information on otorhinolaryngological diagnostic hypotheses, intervention and perceptual-auditory vocal assessments before and after the treatment. Data from 102 subjects were analyzed. Association tests were applied between the perceptual-auditory vocal results and the different alterations found and between these and the adopted treatments. The results of the degrees of vocal deviation before and after treatment were also compared. Results The degree of roughness was associated with the sulcus vocalis, and in this alteration the highest occurrence was mild degree of roughness. There was an improvement in the breathiness and general grade of vocal deviation after treatment. Conclusion Cysts were the most frequent structural alteration in the population studied. There was an association between the degree of general deviation and that of roughness in sulcus vocalis cases. The breathiness and the general grade of vocal deviation improved after treatment regardless of the type of treatment and alteration.

Do Flexible Silicone Tubes Immersed in Water Combined With Vocalise Improve the Immediate Effect on Voice?

PURPOSE: This study aimed to analyze the immediate effect on a singer's voice of a flexible silicone tube immersed in water combined with ascending and descending vocalise scales compared with ascending and descending vocalise scales alone. METHOD: A pre- and post-intervention quasi-experimental study was conducted. Thirty adult singers between 18 and 45 years old with no laryngeal disorders performed the two techniques for 3 min each on different days. Acoustic measurements of frequency, jitter, shimmer, glottal-to-noise excitation ratio, noise, smoothed cepstral peak prominence (CPPS), maximum phonation time (MPT), voice range profile, and self-perceived vocal effort (Borg Category Ratio 10-BR Scale adapted for vocal effort) were assessed before and after performing the techniques. RESULTS: The results indicated an increase in singers' CPPS and MPT values and a decrease in shimmer and noise when performing with a flexible silicone tube immersed in water combined with vocalise. The singers reported a perception of decreased vocal effort after both methods. However, the diminished perceived vocal effort became more pronounced with the tube phonation technique combined with vocalise. CONCLUSIONS: Phonation in tubes combined with vocalise improved the vocal acoustic parameters (including cepstral measurements), increased MPT, and diminished perceived vocal effort. Although using vocalise alone diminished perceived vocal effort, this decrease was more pronounced in the tube phonation technique combined with vocalise.

Timed artificial insemination in crossbred mares: Reproductive efficiency and costs.

Timed artificial insemination (TAI) has boosted the use of conventional artificial insemination (CAI) by employing hormonal protocols to synchronize oestrus and ovulation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of a hormonal protocol for TAI in mares, based on a combination of progesterone releasing intravaginal device (PRID), prostaglandin (PGF2α ) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); and compare financial costs between CAI and TAI. Twenty-one mares were divided into two groups: CAI group (CAIG; n = 6 mares; 17 oestrous cycles) and TAI group (TAIG; n = 15 mares; 15 oestrous cycles). The CAIG was subjected to CAI, involving follicular dynamics and uterine oedema monitoring with ultrasound examinations (US), and administration of hCG (1,600 IU) when the dominant follicle (DF) diameter's ≥35 mm + uterine oedema + cervix opening. The AI was performed with fresh semen (500 × 106 cells), and embryo was recovered on day 8 (D8) after ovulation. In TAI, mares received 1.9 g PRID on D0. On D10, PRID was removed and 6.71 mg dinoprost tromethamine was administered. Ovulation was induced on D14 (1,600 IU of hCG) regardless of the DF diameter's, and AI was performed with fresh semen (500 × 106 cells). On D30 after AI, pregnancy was confirmed by US. The pregnancy rate was 80.0% in TAIG and 82.3% in CAIG (p > .05). The TAI protocol resulted in 65% reduction in professional transport costs, and 40% reduction in material costs. The TAI was as efficient as CAI, provided reduction in costs and handlings, and is recommended in mares.

Ausência de um incisivo inferior ­ e a coincidência das linhas médias dentárias? Relato de caso / Absence of a lower incisor ­ what about the coincidence of dental midlines? Case report

Resumo Introdução: O principal problema acarretado pela ausência de apenas um incisivo inferior é a ocorrência de uma discrepância de volume dentário (Bolton), que pode apresentar diversas alternativas de tratamento. Objetivo: O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar um relato de caso com ausência congênita de um incisivo inferior de paciente submetido ao tratamento ortodôntico com ótimo resultado oclusal, funcional e estético. Bem como discutir o problema da discrepância de volume dentário anterior (Bolton) e a obtenção de linhas médias coincidentes ou não. Tratamento realizado: Tratamento ortodôntico completo com aparelhos fixos (Edgewise Standard, 0.022×0.028") em ambas as arcadas. Utilização de elásticos com orientação de Classe II no lado direito para movimentar o canino inferior direito para a posição do lateral e assim sucessivamente com os demais dentes desse hemiarco inferior e ter coincidência das linhas médias dentárias. Resultado: Excelente resultado, com ótima intercuspidação e "aparente" coincidência das linhas médias dentárias com relação de molar em Classe III de Angle do lado direito e resultado estável em acompanhamento de vários anos. Conclusões: A movimentação de todo o hemiarco inferior de um dos lados para mesial com coincidência das linhas médias, contatos oclusais estáveis e oclusão funcional pode ser uma ótima alternativa.(AU)

Abstract Introduction: The main problem caused by the absence of only one lower incisor is the occurrence of tooth volume discrepancy (Bolton) that may present several treatment alternatives. Objective: This article aims to present a case report with congenital absence of a lower incisor of a patient undergoing orthodontic treatment with excellent occlusal, functional, and aesthetic results. As well as to discuss the problem of anterior tooth volume discrepancy (Bolton) and attainment or not of coincident median lines. Treatment performed: Complete orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances (Edgewise Standard, 0.022×0.028") in both arches. Use of Class II oriented elastics on the right side to move the lower right canine to the position of the lateral tooth, and so on successively with the other teeth of this lower hemiarch, and to obtain coincident dental midlines. Result: Excellent result with great intercuspation and "apparent" coincidence of the dental midline with Angle's Class III molar relationship in the right side, and stable result in several years of follow-up. Conclusions: Moving of the entire lower hemiarch of one side to mesial with coincidence of midlines with stable occlusal contacts and functional occlusion can be a good alternative (AU)

Polycystic ovary syndrome associated with increased adiposity interferes with serum levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 differently from leptin and adiponectin.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to explore the relationship between body fat percentage and metabolic markers. Subjects and methods Sedentary women were assigned to PCOS (N = 60) and CONTROL (N = 60) groups. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups according to body fat percentage (22-27%, 27-32% and 32-37%). The protocol consisted of assessments of glucose, insulin, androgens, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), leptin, adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Results The PCOS subgroups showed higher concentrations of androgens, LH and 17-OHP. Leptin showed direct relationship with increased body fat percentage, whereas adiponectin showed the inverse effect. However, both were unaffected by PCOS. TNF-α and IL-6 were higher in PCOS women and showed a direct relationship with increased body fat percentage. Glucose showed direct relationship with body fat percentage, whereas insulin presented higher values in PCOS women and direct relationship with increased body fat percentage. Conclusions Our findings indicate that PCOS and body fat percentage directly influence concentrations of insulin, TNF-α and IL-6, whereas leptin and adiponectin are influenced only by the increase in body fat percentage in these women. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2020;64(1):4-10.

Polycystic ovary syndrome associated with increased adiposity interferes with serum levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 differently from leptin and adiponectin

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to investigate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to explore the relationship between body fat percentage and metabolic markers. Subjects and methods Sedentary women were assigned to PCOS (N = 60) and CONTROL (N = 60) groups. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups according to body fat percentage (22-27%, 27-32% and 32-37%). The protocol consisted of assessments of glucose, insulin, androgens, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), leptin, adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Results The PCOS subgroups showed higher concentrations of androgens, LH and 17-OHP. Leptin showed direct relationship with increased body fat percentage, whereas adiponectin showed the inverse effect. However, both were unaffected by PCOS. TNF-α and IL-6 were higher in PCOS women and showed a direct relationship with increased body fat percentage. Glucose showed direct relationship with body fat percentage, whereas insulin presented higher values in PCOS women and direct relationship with increased body fat percentage. Conclusions Our findings indicate that PCOS and body fat percentage directly influence concentrations of insulin, TNF-α and IL-6, whereas leptin and adiponectin are influenced only by the increase in body fat percentage in these women. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2020;64(1):4-10

Immediate Effect of a Resonance Tube on the Vocal Range Profile of Choristers.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the immediate effect of the resonance tube technique associated with ascending and descending glissando on the vocal range profile (VRP) of amateur choristers. METHOD: The sample consisted of 40 choristers aged between 18 and 57 years (average of 26.28 ± 7.51 years) with the following voice types: soprano, contralto, tenor and bass, with no vocal symptoms. Recordings of the VRP of the choristers were made before and after performing the resonance tube technique executed in ascending and descending glissando for 3 minutes in each modality. The recordings were made in the VRP of specific software. RESULTS: The VRP of the choristers increased after application of the ascending and descending technique. Stratifying by voice types showed an increase in contralto, tenor and bass after the ascending glissando technique and in tenor and bass after the descending technique. CONCLUSION: The resonance tube technique associated with ascending and descending glissando increased the VRP in contralto, tenor and bass voice types, as well as the maximum frequency and range in hertz and semitones, in all the voice types of the choristers under study, justifying its application in the vocal warm-up of this population.

Anti-cryptococcal activity of ethanol crude extract and hexane fraction from Ocimum basilicum var. Maria bonita: mechanisms of action and synergism with amphotericin B and Ocimum basilicum essential oil.

CONTEXT: Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae) has been used in folk medicine to treat headaches, kidney disorders, and intestinal worms. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the anti-cryptococcal activity of ethanol crude extract and hexane fraction obtained from O. basilicum var. Maria Bonita leaves. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The MIC values for Cryptococcus sp. were obtained according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute in a range of 0.3-2500 µg/mL. The checkerboard assay evaluated the association of the substances tested (in a range of 0.099-2500 µg/mL) with amphotericin B and O. basilicum essential oil for 48 h. The ethanol extract, hexane fraction and associations in a range of 0.3-2500 µg/mL were tested for pigmentation inhibition after 7 days of treatment. The inhibition of ergosterol synthesis and reduction of capsule size were evaluated after the treatment with ethanol extract (312 µg/mL), hexane fraction (78 µg/mL) and the combinations of essential oil + ethanol extract (78 µg/mL + 19.5 µg/mL, respectively) and essential oil + hexane fraction (39.36 µg/mL + 10 µg/mL, respectively) for 24 and 48 h, respectively. RESULTS: The hexane fraction presented better results than the ethanol extract, with a low MIC (156 µg/mL against C. neoformans T444 and 312 µg/mL against C. neoformans H99 serotype A and C. gattii WM779 serotype C). The combination of the ethanol extract and hexane fraction with amphotericin B and essential oil enhanced their antifungal activity, reducing the concentration of each substance needed to kill 100% of the inoculum. The substances tested were able to reduce the pigmentation, capsule size and ergosterol synthesis, which suggest they have important mechanisms of action. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide further support for the use of ethanol extracts of O. basilicum as a potential source of antifungal agents.

New insights for male infertility revealed by alterations in spermatic function and differential testicular expression of thyroid-related genes.

The impact of thyroid hormone (TH) disorders on male reproductive biology has been a controversial issue for many years. Recently, we reported that hypothyroid male rats have a disruption of the seminiferous epithelium, which may compromise spermatogenesis. To improve the understanding of the reproductive pathogenesis of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, male Wistar rats that developed these dysfunctions in adulthood were used as an experimental model. We evaluated the sperm production, reserves, transit time, morphology, and functionality (acrosome integrity, plasma membrane integrity, and mitochondrial activity), and the testicular expression of the TH receptors (Thra1 and Thra2, Thrb1, and Thrb2), deiodinases (Dio2 and Dio3), and the Mct8 transporter (Slc16a2) were assessed by reverse transcription followed by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The results were evaluated statistically by ANOVA and Tukey HSD test (P < 0.05). Hypothyroidism decreased the total and daily sperm productions and increased the sperm transit time through the epididymis, while the sperm functionality was reduced in both thyroid dysfunctions. Regarding the modulation of gene expression in the testis, hypothyroidism increased the expression of Thra1 and decreased the expression of Dio3, and hyperthyroidism increased the expression of Slc16a2. The observed alterations in spermatic production and function and in the expression of the TH receptor, deiodinase, and the TH transporter are suggestive of TH participation in spermatogenesis in adulthood.

Synergism Effect of the Essential Oil from Ocimum basilicum var. Maria Bonita and Its Major Components with Fluconazole and Its Influence on Ergosterol Biosynthesis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of the EO and its major components of Ocimum basilicum var. Maria Bonita, a genetically improved cultivar, against the fluconazole sensitive and resistant strains of Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. Geraniol presented better results than the EO, with a low MIC (76 µg/mL against C. neoformans and 152 µg/mL against both Candida strains). The combination of EO, linalool, or geraniol with fluconazole enhanced their antifungal activity, especially against the resistant strain (MIC reduced to 156, 197, and 38 µg/mL, resp.). The ergosterol assay showed that subinhibitory concentrations of the substances were able to reduce the amount of sterol extracted. The substances tested were able to reduce the capsule size which suggests they have an important mechanism of action. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated cell wall destruction of C. neoformans after treatment with subinhibitory concentrations. In C. albicans ultrastructure alterations such as irregularities in the membrane, presence of vesicles, and cell wall thickening were observed. The biofilm formation was inhibited in both C. albicans strains at MIC and twice MIC. These results provide further support for the use of O. basilicum EO and its major components as a potential source of antifungal agents.

Caracterización de ALTE en neuropediatría. Hospital La Misericordia, Bogotá, Colombia, 2009-2013 / Characterization of ALTE in pediatric neurology. Hospital La Misericordia, Bogotá, Colombia, 2009-2013

Introducción: El síndrome de ALTE es una condición que amenaza la vida de los lactantes; requiere diagnóstico y manejo adecuado para evitar complicaciones o muerte, y sus causas son numerosas, entre ellas: gastrointestinales, respiratorias, neurológicas y otras; las patologías neurológicas representan la tercera causa en la mayoría de estudios. Objetivo: Describir las características de la población de pacientes que consultaron al Hospital de la Misericordia (HOMI) de Bogotá por un episodio de ALTE y que fueron valorados por la especialidad de neuropediatría en el período 2009 a 2013. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en una población de 107 pacientes con diagnóstico de ALTE; se determinaron los datos sociodemográficos, características, causas y tratamientos de ALTE; se utilizó el programa SPSS 22. Resultados: La etiología neurológica de ALTE correspondió al 16,8%, correspondiente a crisis epilépticas, trastornos respiratorios de origen central y sangrados de sistema nervioso central. Ocupa el tercer lugar en etiologías, después de las causas gastrointestinales y respiratorias. Conclusión: Es importante definir el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes con ALTE, pues existe alto riesgo de morbimortalidad asociada. Deben evaluarse factores neurológicos, y no solo gastrointestinales o respiratorios, que ayuden a definir la etiología y evitar complicaciones.

Introduction: ALTE is a condition that threatens the lives of infants; requires diagnosis and appropriate management to avoid complications and / or death. There are numerous causes among which are gastrointestinal, respiratory, and neurological and others. Being the third cause, neurological pathologies in most studies. Objective: To describe the characteristics of the population of patients admitted to Hospital de la Misericord HOMI Bogota, for ALTE and were valued by the specialty of pediatric neurology in the period 2009-2013. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, with a population of 107 patients with a diagnosis of ALTE; sociodemographic data, characteristics, causes and treatments of ALTE were determined. SPSS 22 software was used. Results: The etiology of neurological ALTE corresponded to 16.8%, corresponding to seizures, respiratory disorders of central origin and CNS bleeds. Ranking as third in etiology below gastrointestinal and respiratory causes. Conclusion: It is important to define the diagnosis and treatment of patients with ALTE, as there is a high risk of morbidity and mortality associated. Factors not only neurological and gastrointestinal or respiratory, to help define the etiology and avoid complications should be evaluated.

Histochemical and immunohistochemical study on endocrine cells (5HT, GAS, and SST) of the gastrointestinal tract of a teleost, the characin Astyanax bimaculatus.

Endocrine cells secrete hormones through the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and act on the overall regulation of digestive processes such as nutrient absorption, gut motility and intestinal blood flow. This study aimed to determine regional distribution and frequency of endocrine cells secretory of serotonin (5-HT), somatostatin (SST) and gastrin (GAS) in the GIT of a small-bodied widespread characin Astyanax bimaculatus using histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. Fragments of the stomach and gut fixed for 8h in Bouin liquid were subjected to histological processing and immunohistochemical routine. For the histological analyses, the technique of staining with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) was used, whereas for the histochemical analyses Gomori's trichrome, periodic acid+Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue pH 2.5 (AB) were used to further immunohistochemical processing. The stomach has a mucosa lined with a simple columnar epithelium with mucus-secreting cells; the glandular region (proximal and distal portions) has folds and pits, whereas the non-glandular region has pits only. The intestinal epithelium is simple with plain cylindrical grooved and goblet cells. The anterior region has thin folds with few goblet cells, and the posterior region with thick folds and many goblet cells. The regional distribution and frequency of endocrine cells varied across regions of the GIT with the stomach showing the highest amount of immunoreactive (IR) cells. Only the 5-HT was found in the stomach (epithelia and glands) and gut regions, with comparatively higher frequency in the stomach. SST-IR cells were found in the stomach (epithelia and gastric glands) with higher frequency in the glandular region, whereas GAS-IR were found in the gastric glands only. The stomach was the only organ to have all the three types of endocrine cells, indicating that this organ is the main site of digestion of food in this species.

Mercury Exposure in a Riverside Amazon Population, Brazil: A Study of the Ototoxicity of Methylmercury

Introduction Mercury poisoning causes hearing loss in humans and animals. Acute and long-term exposures produce irreversible peripheral and central auditory system damage, and mercury in its various forms of presentation in the environment is ototoxic. Objective We investigated the otoacoustic emissions responses in a riverside population exposed to environmental mercury by analyzing the inhibitory effect of the medial olivocochlear system (MOCS) on transient otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE). Methods The purpose of the research was to evaluate the entire community independently of variables of sex and age. All of the participants were born and lived in a riverside community. After otolaryngologic evaluation, participants were received tympanometry, evaluation of contralateral acoustic reflexes, pure tone audiometry, and recording of TEOAEs with nonlinear click stimulation. Hair samples were collect to measure mercury levels. Results There was no significant correlation between the inhibitory effect of the MOCS, age, and the level of mercury in the hair. Conclusions The pathophysiological effects of chronic exposure may be subtle and nonspecific and can have a long period of latency; therefore, it will be important to monitor the effects of mercury exposure in the central auditory system of the Amazon population over time. Longitudinal studies should be performed to determine whether the inhibitory effect of the MOCS on otoacoustic emissions can be an evaluation method and diagnostic tool in populations exposed to mercury. .

Mercury exposure in a riverside Amazon population, Brazil: a study of the ototoxicity of methylmercury.

Introduction Mercury poisoning causes hearing loss in humans and animals. Acute and long-term exposures produce irreversible peripheral and central auditory system damage, and mercury in its various forms of presentation in the environment is ototoxic. Objective We investigated the otoacoustic emissions responses in a riverside population exposed to environmental mercury by analyzing the inhibitory effect of the medial olivocochlear system (MOCS) on transient otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE). Methods The purpose of the research was to evaluate the entire community independently of variables of sex and age. All of the participants were born and lived in a riverside community. After otolaryngologic evaluation, participants were received tympanometry, evaluation of contralateral acoustic reflexes, pure tone audiometry, and recording of TEOAEs with nonlinear click stimulation. Hair samples were collect to measure mercury levels. Results There was no significant correlation between the inhibitory effect of the MOCS, age, and the level of mercury in the hair. Conclusions The pathophysiological effects of chronic exposure may be subtle and nonspecific and can have a long period of latency; therefore, it will be important to monitor the effects of mercury exposure in the central auditory system of the Amazon population over time. Longitudinal studies should be performed to determine whether the inhibitory effect of the MOCS on otoacoustic emissions can be an evaluation method and diagnostic tool in populations exposed to mercury.