Phytochemical and biological characterization of aqueous extract of Vassobia breviflora on proliferation and viability of melanoma cells: involvement of purinergic pathway.

Vassobia breviflora belongs to the Solanaceae family, possessing biological activity against tumor cells and is a promising alternative for therapy. The aim of this investigation was to determine the phytochemical properties V. breviflora using ESI-ToF-MS. The cytotoxic effects of this extract were examined in B16-F10 melanoma cells and the relationship if any to purinergic signaling was involved. The antioxidant activity of total phenols, (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) was analyzed, as well as production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) was determined. Genotoxicity was assessed by DNA damage assay. Subsequently, the structural bioactive compounds were docked against purinoceptors P2X7 and P2Y1 receptors. The bioactive compounds found in V. breviflora were N-methyl-(2S,4 R)-trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline, calystegine B, 12-O-benzoyl- tenacigenin A and bungoside B. In vitro cytotoxicity was demonstrated at concentration ranges of 0.1-10 mg/ml, and plasmid DNA breaks only at the concentration of 10 mg/ml. V. breviflora extracts affected hydrolysis by ectoenzymes, such as ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase) and ectoadenosine deaminase (E-ADA) which control levels of degradation and formation of nucleosides and nucleotides. In the presence of substrates ATP, ADP, AMP and adenosine, the activities of E-NTPDase, 5´-NT or E-ADA were significantly modulated by V. breviflora. N-methyl-(2S,4 R)-trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline presented higher binding affinity (according to receptor-ligand complex estimated binding affinity as evidenced by ∆G values) to bind to both P2X7 and P2Y1purinergic receptors.Our results suggest a putative interaction of V. breviflora bioactive compounds with growth inhibitory potential in B16-F10 melanoma and suggest that may be considered as promising compounds in melanoma and cancer treatment.

Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Harpagophytum procumbens Prevents Oxidative Stress In Vitro and Amphetamine-Induced Alterations in Mice Behavior.

Microglial activation has been associated to the physiopathology of neurodegenerative diseases, such as schizophrenia, and can occur during inflammation and oxidative stress. Pharmacological treatment is associated with severe side effects, and studies for use of plant extracts may offer alternatives with lower toxicity. Harpagophytum procumbens (HP) is a plant known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we characterized the ethyl acetate fraction of HP (EAF HP) by ESI-ToF-MS and investigated the effects EAF HP in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation model on microglial cells (BV-2 lineage). MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), DCFH-DA (2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate) and cell cycle flow cytometer analysis were performed. In vivo was investigated the amphetamine-induced psychosis model through behavioral (locomotor and exploratory activities, stereotypies and working memory) and biochemical (DCFH-DA oxidation and protein thiols) parameters in cortex and striatum of mice. EAF HP reduced activation and proliferation of microglial cells in 48 h (300 µg/mL) and in 72 h after treatments (50-500 µg/mL). Reactive oxygen species levels were lower at the concentration of 100 µg/mL EAF HP. We detected a modulatory effect on the cell cycle, with reduction of cells in S and G2/M phases. In mice, the pre-treatment with EAF HP, for 7 days, protected against positive and cognitive symptoms, as well as stereotypies induced by amphetamine. No oxidative stress was observed in this amphetamine-induced model of psychosis. Such findings suggest that EAF HP can modulate the dopaminergic neurotransmission and be a promising adjuvant in the treatment of locomotor alterations, cognitive deficits, and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA prevalence in Brazilian blood donors.

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is an oncogenic virus that has been etiologically linked to Merkel cell carcinoma. Low levels of MCPyV DNA have been detected in blood donors with unclear impact on transfusion. The prevalence of MCPyV DNA in Brazilian blood donors is unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the MCPyV DNA prevalence among Brazilian blood donors. We examined the presence of MCPyV DNA by real-time PCR (qPCR) in a total of 450 serum samples obtained from blood donors from three Brazilian regions (North, Central-West and South). The overall estimated MCPyV DNA prevalence was 1.1% (CI = 95%, 0.16-2.06%). Divided by region, in North Brazil (city of Macapa, state of Amapá) and South Brazil (city of Santa Maria, state of Rio Grande do Sul), the MCPyV prevalence was the same: 1.33% (CI = 95%, range 0.0-3.14%). In Central-West Brazil (city of Brasilia), the MCPyV prevalence was 0.6% (CI = 95%, 0.0-1.96%). All MCPyV positive samples showed a high cycle threshold (median Ct = 35.5), most probably related to the low viral load. More studies are necessary to unveil the impact of this oncogenic virus on transfusion medicine and if such exists, especially in regards of its infectivity and transmission potential.

Molecular identification of the emerging Human Gemykibivirus-2 (HuGkV-2) among Brazilian blood donors.

Human gemykibivirus-2 (HuGkV-2) belonging to the Gemykibivirus genus (Genomoviridae family) is an emerging DNA virus which has been described as a component of the virome of a wide variety of samples including clinical ones. So far, the HuGkV-2 DNA prevalence in the human population as well as its clinical impact are completely unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the HuGkV-2 DNA prevalence among Brazilian healthy blood donors from three different geographic regions. A total of 450 blood samples were screened for HuGkV-2 DNA (150 samples were from the Brazilian Amazon, 150 from Midwest Brazil and 150 from South Brazil). The overall HuGkV-2 DNA prevalence was 7.8 %. Considering the examined regions, the highest prevalence was observed in the Brazilian Amazon (city of Macapa, state of Amapa), 15.3 %, followed by the Midwest Brazil (city of Brasilia, Federal District) (6.0 %) and South Brazil (city of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul State) (2.0 %). This study gives preliminary insights on the molecular prevalence of HuGkV-2 DNA among Brazilian blood donors, highlighting that the highest HuGkV-2 prevalence was recorded in the Brazilian Amazon. However, more studies regarding the prevalence, transmission routes and any possible clinical effects appear to be crucial in order to understand the impact of this emerging viral agent.

Istradefylline modulates purinergic enzymes and reduces malignancy-associated factors in B16F10 melanoma cells.

ATP and adenosine exert pivotal roles in the development, maintenance, and metastatic spreading of melanoma. The action of such key melanoma tumor microenvironment (TME) constituents might be complementary or opposed, and their effects are not exclusive to immune cells but also to other host cells and tumor cells. The effects of ATP are controlled by the axis CD39/73, resulting in adenosine, the main actor in the TME, and A2A is the crucial mediator of its effects. We evaluated ATP and adenosine signaling through A2A on B16F10 melanoma cells using istradefylline (IST) (antiparkinsonian A2A antagonist) and caffeine (CAF) treatments after exposure to ATP and adenosine. Adenosine increased melanoma cell viability and proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. ATP increases viability only as a substrate by CD39 to produce adenosine. Both IST and CAF are toxic to B16F10 cells, but only IST potentialized paclitaxel-induced cytotoxic effects, even decreasing its IC50 value. IST positively modulated CD39 and CD73 expression. CD39 activity was increased, and E-ADA was reduced, indicating that the melanoma cells promoted compensatory feedback in the production and maintenance of adenosine levels. A2A antagonism by IST reduced the factors associated with malignancy, like migration, adhesion, colony formation, and the capacity to produce melanin. Moreover, IST significantly increases nitric oxide (NO) production, which correlates to a decline in melanoma cell viability by apoptotic events. Altogether, our results suggest that adenosine signaling through A2A is essential for B16F10 cells, and its inhibition by IST causes compensatory purinergic enzymatic modulations. Furthermore, IST is a promising therapy that provides new ways to improve current melanoma treatments.

Cocoa presents cytotoxicity against melanoma cancer cell lines (A-375 e B16-F10) and improves chemotherapy activity by increasing oxidative stress.

Melanoma frequently presents a poor chemotherapy response. In this scenario, investigations for new therapies are essential. Thus, cocoa is highlighted in this area since it presents many biological properties. This study investigated the anticarcinogenic activity of cocoa in melanoma cell lines (A-375 and B16-F10). Melanoma and fibroblast (HFF-1) cell lines were exposed to different concentrations of cocoa seeds (30 to 2000 ug/ml) at 24 and 72 h. Cocoa was also associated with paclitaxel IC50. We conducted viability, proliferation, and oxidative stress analyses. Our findings suggested that cocoa isolated, at almost all concentrations tested, was able to reduce viability and proliferation of B16-F10 cells and proliferation of A-375 cells via oxidative stress increasing. Also, cocoa caused no damage in fibroblast cells. Moreover, cocoa increased paclitaxel activity on A-375 by reducing cell proliferation and increasing oxidative stress. Therefore, the results highlight cocoa as a potent selective adjuvant anticancer agent against melanoma. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In conclusion, more studies should be performed to deeply explore this remarkable action of cocoa as a an promising adjuvant to enhance chemotherapy.

A Retrospective Observational Cohort Study of Periprosthetic Hip Infection Treated by one-stage Method Including Cases With Bone Graft Reconstruction.

Purpose: Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication that can affect hip arthroplasty. Its treatment is extremely difficult, and issues regarding the optimal treatment remain unanswered. This study intended to show the effectiveness of the one-stage treatment of PJI. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study performed from July 2014- August 2018. All patients with suspected PJI were included. Major and minor criteria developed by the International Consensus on Periprosthetic Joint Infection (ICPJI) was used to define infection. Laboratory tests and image exams were performed, and all patients were followed for at least 2 years. Outcomes: Success rate (2018 ICPJI definition to success) in treatment of PJI using one-stage revision method. Clinical and functional outcomes defined by Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results: Thirty-one patients were screened and 18 analyzed. 69.85 ± 9.76 years was the mean age. Mean follow-up time was 63.84 ± 18.55 months. Ten patients had acetabular defects and required bone graft reconstruction. Sixteen patients were classified as Tier 1, 1 as Tier 3D, and as 1 Tier 3E. Almost 90% of patients submitted to one-stage revision with acetabulum graft reconstruction were free of infection. The overall infection survival rate was 78.31±6.34 months. Candida albicans and sinus tract were statistically significant in univariate Cox's analysis. The predictor of one-stage revision surgery failure that remained final Cox's regression model was C. albicans (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.47). Conclusion: Treatment through one-stage revision surgery associated with 6 months of antimicrobial is a viable option with acceptable results even when bone graft reconstruction is necessary. C. albicans was a strong predictor of failure in this cohort.

Repositioning of Disulfiram in Association with Vancomycin Against Enterococcus spp. MDR and XDR.

The identification of molecules that exhibit potent antibacterial activity and are capable of circumventing resistance mechanisms is an unmet need. The repositioning of approved drugs is considered an advantageous alternative in this case, and has gained prominence. In addition, drug synergism can reduce morbidity and mortality in the treatment of nosocomial infections caused by multi-drug resistant microorganisms (MDR). Whole cell growth inhibition assays were used to define the in vitro antibacterial activity of disulfiram against two standard American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) strains and 35 clinical isolates of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The ability of disulfiram to synergize with vancomycin was determined by fractional inhibitory concentration index, preceded by the checkerboard test. The cytotoxicity of drugs alone and in combination was tested against Raw 264.7 cells. Disulfiram exhibited potent antibacterial activity against VRE (MIC 16-64 µg mL-1). Results: Associated with vancomycin, disulfiram it had a reduction in MIC of up to 64 times, with values of 0.5-4 µg mL-1. Vancomycin had a MIC of 128-1024 µg mL-1; combined, reduced this value by up to 124 times (8 µg mL-1), with synergy occurring against all strains. Disulfiram and vancomycin alone and in combination did not show cytotoxicity against the eukaryotic cell line. Based on these results, we suggest that the redirection of disulfiram may be promising in the treatment of infections caused by VRE, since it was able to potentiate the activity of vancomycin against the strains, being able to act as an adjuvant in cases of serious infections caused by Enterococcus.

Protective Effect of Indomethacin-loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles Against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cytotoxicity in Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cell Model / Efeito Protetor de Nanopartículas Poliméricas com Indometacina contra Citotoxicidade Induzida por Estresse Oxidativo em Modelo Celular de Adenocarcinoma de Mama Humano / Efecto Protector de Nanopartículas Poliméricas con Indometacina contra la Citotoxicidad Inducida por Estrés Oxidativo en Modelo de Células de Adenocarcinoma de Mama Humano

Introduction: Anti-inflammatory drugs are being utilized to treat cancer because of its inflammatory microenvironment. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the antioxidant potential of indomethacin and its genotoxicity, since free or loaded in polymeric nanocapsules using MCF-7 (human breast cancer) cells as an in vitro model. Method: Development of indomethacin-loaded polyepsilon-caprolactone (PCL) nanocapsules by interfacial deposition method. It is characterized by pH determination by potentiometer, mean diameter and polydispersity index by dynamic light scattering; zeta potential by electrophoretic mobility; encapsulation efficacy by high performance liquid chromatography method; corona effect formation; 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) method by spectrofluorimetric assay; nitric oxide (NO) determination by spectrophotometric and genotoxicity assay by plasmid DNA cleavage method. Results: The results showed a mild acidic pH (4.78 ± 0.10), sizes around 200 nm and PDI<0.2 with a zeta potential around -20 mV and encapsulation efficiency of 99% (1 mg mL-1), showing a dose-dependent corona formation profile in 24h incubation. Conclusion: DCFH-DA assay showed no production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) while NO determination showed that Ind-OH-NC from 26.7 to 100 µM increased reactive nitrogen species (RNS), demonstrating antioxidant potential against MCF-7 cells. No sample at the concentrations evaluated induced DNA cleavage, being considered a safe treatment

Introdução: Anti-inflamatórios estão sendo empregados para tratamento de câncer por causa do seu ambiente inflamado. Objetivo: Investigar o potencial antioxidante da indometacina e sua genotoxicidade, livre ou carreada em nanocápsulas poliméricas, usando como modelo in vitrocélulas MCF-7 (câncer de mama humano). Método: Desenvolvimento de nanocápsulas de poliepsilon-caprolactona (PCL) por método de deposição interfacial, caracterizada por determinação de pH por potenciômetro; diâmetro médio e índice de polidispersão por espalhamento dinâmico de luz; potencial zeta por mobilidade eletroforética; eficiência de encapsulação por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência; formação de efeito corona; método de 2',7'-diclorofluoresceína diacetato (DCFH-DA) por ensaio espectrofluorimétrico; determinação de óxido nítrico (NO) por espectrometria e ensaio de genotoxicidade por método de clivagem do DNA plasmidial. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram leve pH ácido (4,78 ± 0,10), tamanhos em torno de 200 nm e PDI<0,2 com potencial zeta em torno de -20 mV e eficiência de encapsulação de 99% (1 mg mL-1), apresentando perfil de formação de corona dose-dependente em 24 horas de incubação. Conclusão: O ensaio DCFH-DA mostrou que não há produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS), enquanto a determinação de NO mostrou que Ind-OH-NC de 26,7 a 100 µM aumentou as espécies reativas de nitrogênio (RNS), demonstrando potencial antioxidante contra MCF-7. Nenhuma amostra nas concentrações avaliadas induziu clivagem do DNA, sendo considerado um tratamento seguro

Introducción: Se están utilizando antiinflamatorios para tratamiento de cáncer debido a su entorno inflamado. Objetivo: Investigar el potencial antioxidante de la indometacina y su genotoxicidad, libre o acarreada en nanocápsulas poliméricas utilizando como modelo in vitro células MCF-7 (cáncer de mama humano). Método: Desarrollo de nanocápsulas de poli epsilon-caprolactona (PCL) por método de deposición interfacial, caracterizada por determinación de pH por potenciómetro; diámetro medio e índice de polidispersión por esparcimiento dinámico de luz; potencial zeta por movilidad electroforética; eficiencia de encapsulación por cromatografía líquida de alta eficiencia; formación de efecto corona; método de 2',7'-diclorofluoresceína diacetato (DCFH-DA) por ensayo espectrofluorímetro; determinación de óxido nítrico (NO) por espectrometría y ensayo de genotoxicidad por método de clivaje del ADN plasmídico. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron ligero pH ácido (4,78 ± 0,10), tamaños alrededor de 200 nm y PDI<0,2 con potencial zeta alrededor de -20 mV y eficiencia de encapsulación de 99% (1 mg mL-1), presentando perfil de formación de corona dosis-dependiente en 24h de incubación. Conclusión: El ensayo DCFDA mostró que no hay producción de especies reactivas de oxígeno (ROS) mientras que la determinación de NO mostró que Ind-OH-NC de 26,7 a 100 µM aumentó las especies reactivas de nitrógeno (RNS), demostrando potencial antioxidante contra MCF-7. Ninguna muestra en las concentraciones evaluadas indujo clivaje del ADN, siendo considerado un tratamiento seguro

Protective Effect of Indomethacin-loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles Against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cytotoxicity in Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cell Model / Efeito Protetor de Nanopartículas Poliméricas com Indometacina contra Citotoxicidade Induzida por Estresse Oxidativo em Modelo Celular de Adenocarcinoma de Mama Humano / Efecto Protector de Nanopartículas Poliméricas con Indometacina contra la Citotoxicidad Inducida por Estrés Oxidativo en Modelo de Células de Adenocarcinoma de Mama Humano

Anti-inflammatory drugs are being utilized to treat cancer because of its inflammatory microenvironment. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the antioxidant potential of indomethacin and its genotoxicity, since free or loaded in polymeric nanocapsules using MCF-7 (human breast cancer) cells as an in vitro model. Method: Development of indomethacin-loaded polyepsilon-caprolactone (PCL) nanocapsules by interfacial deposition method. It is characterized by pH determination by potentiometer, mean diameter and polydispersity index by dynamic light scattering; zeta potential by electrophoretic mobility; encapsulation efficacy by high performance liquid chromatography method; corona effect formation; 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) method by spectrofluorimetric assay; nitric oxide (NO) determination by spectrophotometric and genotoxicity assay by plasmid DNA cleavage method. Results: The results showed a mild acidic pH (4.78 ± 0.10), sizes around 200 nm and PDI PDI<0.2 with a zeta potential around -20 mV and encapsulation efficiency of 99% (1 mg mL-1), showing a dose-dependent corona formation profile in 24h incubation. Conclusion: DCFH-DA assay showed no production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) while NO determination showed that Ind-OH-NC from 26.7 to 100 µM increased reactive nitrogen species (RNS), demonstrating antioxidant potential against MCF-7 cells. No sample at the concentrations evaluated induced DNA cleavage, being considered a safe treatment

Introdução: Anti-inflamatórios estão sendo empregados para tratamento de câncer por causa do seu ambiente inflamado. Objetivo: Investigar o potencial antioxidante da indometacina e sua genotoxicidade, livre ou carreada em nanocápsulas poliméricas, usando como modelo in vitro células MCF-7 (câncer de mama humano). Método: Desenvolvimento de nanocápsulas de poliepsilon-caprolactona (PCL) por método de deposição interfacial, caracterizada por determinação de pH por potenciômetro; diâmetro médio e índice de polidispersão por espalhamento dinâmico de luz; potencial zeta por mobilidade eletroforética; eficiência de encapsulação por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência; formação de efeito corona; método de 2',7'-diclorofluoresceína diacetato (DCFH-DA) por ensaio espectrofluorimétrico; determinação de óxido nítrico (NO) por espectrometria e ensaio de genotoxicidade por método de clivagem do DNA plasmidial. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram leve pH ácido (4,78 ± 0,10), tamanhos em torno de 200 nm e PDI<0,2 com potencial zeta em torno de -20 mV e eficiência de encapsulação de 99% (1 mg mL-1), apresentando perfil de formação de corona dose-dependente em 24 horas de incubação. Conclusão: O ensaio DCFH-DA mostrou que não há produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS), enquanto a determinação de NO mostrou que Ind-OH-NC de 26,7 a 100 µM aumentou as espécies reativas de nitrogênio (RNS), demonstrando potencial antioxidante contra MCF-7. Nenhuma amostra nas concentrações avaliadas induziu clivagem do DNA, sendo considerado um tratamento seguro

Introducción: Se están utilizando antiinflamatorios para tratamiento de cáncer debido a su entorno inflamado. Objetivo: Investigar el potencial antioxidante de la indometacina y su genotoxicidad, libre o acarreada en nanocápsulas poliméricas utilizando como modelo in vitro células MCF7 (cáncer de mama humano). Método: Desarrollo de nanocápsulas de poli epsilon-caprolactona (PCL) por método de deposición interfacial, caracterizada por determinación de pH por potenciómetro; diámetro medio e índice de polidispersión por esparcimiento dinámico de luz; potencial zeta por movilidad electroforética; eficiencia de encapsulación por cromatografía líquida de alta eficiencia; formación de efecto corona; método de 2',7'-diclorofluoresceína diacetato (DCFH-DA) por ensayo espectrofluorímetro; determinación de óxido nítrico (NO) por espectrometría y ensayo de genotoxicidad por método de clivaje del ADN plasmídico. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron ligero pH ácido (4,78 ± 0,10), tamaños alrededor de 200 nm y PDI<0,2 con potencial zeta alrededor de -20 mV y eficiencia de encapsulación de 99% (1 mg mL-1), presentando perfil de formación de corona dosis-dependiente en 24h de incubación. Conclusión: El ensayo DCFDA mostró que no hay producción de especies reactivas de oxígeno (ROS) mientras que la determinación de NO mostró que Ind-OH-NC de 26,7 a 100 µM aumentó las especies reactivas de nitrógeno (RNS), demostrando potencial antioxidante contra MCF-7. Ninguna muestra en las concentraciones evaluadas indujo clivaje del ADN, siendo considerado un tratamiento seguro

Perfil bioquímico de pacientes diabéticos de um laboratório privado da região sul do Brasil / Biochemical profile of diabetic patients in a private laboratory in southern Brazil

O diabetes é uma doença crônica decorrente de hiperglicemia permanente. A hemoglobina glicada (HbA1c) resulta da ligação não enzimática entre a hemoglobina e a glicose. A dosagem da mesma é o principal determinante para avaliação do controle glicêmico em pacientes diabéticos. Este estudo objetivou correlacionar idade, perfil glicêmico e lipídico em uma amostra de prontuários de portadores de Diabetes Melito (DM), em um laboratório privado da região sul do Brasil. Foram analisados 776 prontuários no período entre janeiro a março de 2018, sendo que os prontuários foram obtidos a partir de registros dos meses entre março de 2016 a março de 2018. Analisamos HbA1c, glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol total, LDL-colesterol e HDL-colesterol. Nossos resultados mostram predominância de mulheres idosas (61%), não havendo variação de idade entre os gêneros, em ambos foi possível observar correlação negativa e significativa entre idade e LDL-C. Não houve clara associação entre HbA1c e perfil lipídico na amostra estudada. Os resultados demonstraram aumento nos níveis de HbA1c e redução no colesterol total e LDL-C nos pacientes acima de 60 anos. Encontramos uma forte correlação positiva entre os parâmetros HbA1c e glicose, em ambos os gêneros. As correlações entre idade e demais variáveis foram fracas, entre ambos. (AU)

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by the presence of permanent hyperglycemia. Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) is formed through the non-enzymatic binding of hemoglobin and glucose. Its dosage in blood is one of the most relevant factors in the evaluation of the glycemic control. The aim of this study is to correlate age, glycemic and lipid profiles in a sample of 776 patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus (DM), from a laboratory in southern Brazil. A total of 776 medical records were analyzed between January and March 2018, and the records were obtained from the records of the months between March 2016 and March 2018. HbA1c, glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol values were analyzed. Our results show a predominance of elderly women (61%), with no age variation between genders, in both it was possible to observe negative and significant correlation between age and LDL-C. There was no clear association between HbA1c and lipid profile. The results showed increased levels of HbA1c and a reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-C in patients over 60 years. A strong positive correlation was found between HbA1c and glucose parameters in both genders. The correlations between age and other variables were weak between both. (AU)

Perfil bioquímico de pacientes diabéticos de um laboratório privado da região sul do Brasil / Biochemical profile of diabetic patients in a private laboratory in southern Brazil

O diabetes é uma doença crônica decorrente de hiperglicemia permanente. A hemoglobina glicada (HbA1c) resulta da ligação não enzimática entre a hemoglobina e a glicose. A dosagem da mesma é o principal determinante para avaliação do controle glicêmico em pacientes diabéticos. Este estudo objetivou correlacionar idade, perfil glicêmico e lipídico em uma amostra de prontuários de portadores de Diabetes Melito (DM), em um laboratório privado da região sul do Brasil. Foram analisados 776 prontuários no período entre janeiro a março de 2018, sendo que os prontuários foram obtidos a partir de registros dos meses entre março de 2016 a março de 2018. Analisamos HbA1c, glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol total, LDL-colesterol e HDL-colesterol. Nossos resultados mostram predominância de mulheres idosas (61%), não havendo variação de idade entre os gêneros, em ambos foi possível observar correlação negativa e significativa entre idade e LDL-C. Não houve clara associação entre HbA1c e perfil lipídico na amostra estudada. Os resultados demonstraram aumento nos níveis de HbA1c e redução no colesterol total e LDL-C nos pacientes acima de 60 anos. Encontramos uma forte correlação positiva entre os parâmetros HbA1c e glicose, em ambos os gêneros. As correlações entre idade e demais variáveis foram fracas, entre ambos.

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by the presence of permanent hyperglycemia. Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) is formed through the non-enzymatic binding of hemoglobin and glucose. Its dosage in blood is one of the most relevant factors in the evaluation of the glycemic control. The aim of this study is to correlate age, glycemic and lipid profiles in a sample of 776 patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus (DM), from a laboratory in southern Brazil. A total of 776 medical records were analyzed between January and March 2018, and the records were obtained from the records of the months between March 2016 and March 2018. HbA1c, glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol values were analyzed. Our results show a predominance of elderly women (61%), with no age variation between genders, in both it was possible to observe negative and significant correlation between age and LDL-C. There was no clear association between HbA1c and lipid profile. The results showed increased levels of HbA1c and a reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-C in patients over 60 years. A strong positive correlation was found between HbA1c and glucose parameters in both genders. The correlations between age and other variables were weak between both.

Comparison of the effects of triamcinolone acetonide or platelet-rich plasma on expression of extracellular matrix-related genes in equine healthy chondrocytes in vitro / Comparação dos efeitos do acetonido de triancinolona ou plasma rico em plaquetas na expressão de genes relacionados à matriz extracelular de condrócitos in vitro de equinos adultos

ABSTRACT: In healthy cartilage, chondrocytes maintain an expression of collagens and proteoglycans and are sensitive to growth factors and cytokines that either enhance or reduce type II collagen synthesis. In osteoarthritis, pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, induce overexpression of metalloproteinases (MMP) and decreasing synthesis of aggrecan. Use of chondroprotectors agents, such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and triamcinolone (TA) are alternatives to reduce the progression of joint damage. In this study, we used chondrocytes extracted from metacarpophalangeal joints of healthy horses as the experimental model. Cells were treated in vitro with PRP or TA. No differences were observed between these treatments in comparison to the control group when the expressions of MMP9, MMP13, IL-6 and ACAN genes were evaluated (P<0.05). With these results, we can suggest that the treatments were not deleterious to equine cultured chondrocyte, once they did not stimulate MMPs and IL-6 synthesis or caused changes in ACAN.

RESUMO: Na cartilagem saudável, os condrócitos mantêm a expressão de colágenos e proteoglicanos, sendo sensíveis a fatores de crescimento e citocinas que aumentam ou reduzem a síntese de colágeno tipo II. Na osteoartrite, citocinas pró-inflamatórias, como a IL-6, estimulam a expressão de metaloproteinases (MMP) e reduzem a síntese de agrecano. O uso de condroprotetores, como o Plasma Rico em Plaquetas (PRP) e triancinolona (TA) é uma alternativa para se reduzir a progressão do dano articular. Neste estudo foram usados condrócitos extraídos das articulações metacarpofalangeanas de equinos saudáveis. As células foram tratadas in vitro com TA ou PRP. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os tratamentos comparando-se com o grupo controle quanto à expressão genética de MMP-9, MMP-13, IL-6 e ACAN (p<0,05). Assim, pode-se sugerir que os tratamentos não foram deletérios ao cultivo de condrócitos, uma vez que não estimularam a síntese de MMP e IL-6 e nem causaram alterações no ACAN.

Can Triamcinolone acetonide, platelet-rich plasma, and pentosan polysulfate sodium induce oxidative stress in cultured equine chondrocytes? / Acetonido de triancinolona, plasma rico em plaquetas e pentosano polissulfato sódico podem ocasionar estresse oxidativo em cultivo de condrócitos de equinos?

ABSTRACT: Progressive deterioration and loss of articular cartilage are the final degenerative events common to osteoarthritis (OA). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in this chondrocyte catabolic activity, leading to cell death and matrix components breakdown. Intra-articular corticosteroid injections such as triamcinolone acetonide have been used to control pain and inflammation associated with OA. New treatments for OA, platelet-rich plasma and pentosan polysulphate sodium have also been used and further investigations are necessary to determine their safety in joint cells. In this in vitro study, the use of these three substances (triamcinolone acetonide, platelet-rich plasma, and pentosan polysulphate sodium) in healthy chondrocytes did not alter the antioxidant status when compared to control groups, indicating that they could be considered safe in healthy conditions.

RESUMO: A deterioração progressiva e perda da cartilagem articular são os eventos finais da osteoartrite (OA). Espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) têm papel importante na atividade catabólica de condrócitos, levando a morte celular e quebra dos componentes da matriz. Injeções intra-articulares de corticosteroides, como com o acetonido de triancinolona, são usadas para controle da dor e inflamação associadas à OA. Novos tratamentos para a OA, como o plasma rico em plaquetas e o pentosano polissulfato sódico, também tem sido utilizados e necessitam de maiores investigações para determinar sua segurança para as células articulares de equinos. Neste estudo in vitro, o uso destas três substâncias (acetonido de triancinolona, pentosan polissulfato de sódio de plasma rico em plaquetas) em condrócitos saudáveis de equinos não alterou o status antioxidante quando comparado aos grupos controle, indicando que puderam ser considerados seguros em condições saudáveis.

Expectativas de escolares de uma comunidade vulnerável: qualidade de vida e esperança sobre profissionais/governantes / Expectations of students of a vulnerable community: quality of life and hope in professional/rulers

Objetivou-se conhecer as expectativas/anseios de escolares sobre mudanças pessoais que possibilitariam melhorias na sua qualidade de vida e o que esperam dos profissionais da saúde e governantes. Estudo transversal, realizado com 435 escolares, de dez anos ou mais, matriculados do quinto ano do ensino fundamental até o último ano do ensino médio. Utilizou-se um questionário com questões fechadas e após a análise estatística descritiva. 45,3% dos pesquisados responderam que gostariam de estudar mais; 26,7%, de valorizar mais os pais. Praticamente metade dos sujeitos gostaria que os profissionais de saúde lhes dessem mais atenção e orientações. Destes, 19,7% consideravam importante o profissional de saúde na escola. 40% dos estudantes esperam honestidade dos governantes e 34,9%, que estes pensem mais no povo. Os escolares têm noção dos seus direitos de cidadania, expressam de forma consciente as expectativas/anseios em relação às mudanças pessoais e o que esperam de profissionais da saúde e governantes.

This study aimed to describe students’ expectations about personal changes that would bring improvements to their quality of life and also about their hope in health professionals and governments. Cross-sectional study, conducted with 435 students, ten years old or more, enrolled in the fifth year of elementary school to the last year of high school. We used a questionnaire with closed questions and after the descriptive statistical analysis. 45.3% of respondents said they would like to study more; 26.7% would like to give parents more value. Nearly half of the subjects would like health professionals to give them more attention and guidance. Among them, 19.7% considered important the presence of health professional in school. 40% of students expect honesty from rulers and 34.9% expect they think more in people. The students are aware of their rights of citizenship, they have conscience to express the expectations / aspirations regarding personal changes and what they expect from health professionals and government.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo conocer expectativas/aspiraciones de estudiantes acerca de los cambios personales que permitan la mejora de su calidad de vida y lo que esperan de los profesionales de la salud y responsables políticos. Estudio transversal con 435 estudiantes, de diez años de edad o más, en el quinto año de la escuela primaria hasta el último año de la escuela secundaria. Se utilizó un cuestionario con preguntas cerradas y después del análisis estadístico descriptivo. El 45,3% de los encuestados dijo que les gustaría estudiar más; el 26,7% de dar más valor a los padres. A casi la mitad de los sujetos les gustaría que profesionales de la salud les dieran más atención y orientación. De éstos, el 19,7% considera que es importante tener en la escuela el profesional de la salud. El 40% de los estudiantes espera honestidad de los gobernantes y el 34,9% espera que pensaran más en las personas. Los estudiantes son conscientes de sus derechos de ciudadanía, expresan conscientemente expectativas/aspiraciones con respecto a los cambios personales y lo que esperan de los profesionales de la salud y responsables políticos.