Toxicity of REEs, Th, and U: A Biodisponibility, Cytotoxicity, and Bioaccumulation Assessment in Marine Sediment.

In this work, bioaccessibility tests for rare earth elements (REEs), Th, and U in marine sediment were carried out, in addition to complementary tests for cytotoxicity and bioaccumulation for the elements La, Ce, Eu, and Gd. The evaluation of human health risk through dermal absorption and oral ingestion was performed using the hazard quotient (HQ). According to the gastric digestion simulation (SBET), it was observed that the elements Ce and Nd exhibited higher absorption capacities in the human body (> 2 µg g-1). La and Sc presented intermediate concentrations (close to 1 µg g-1), while the remaining elements displayed concentrations below 0.5 µg g-1. In the gastrointestinal digestion extraction stage (PBET), all the elements maintained a similar absorption capacity to that observed in SBET, except for the absorption of Y which increased. The results of the bioaccumulation test conducted with fibroblast cells (L929) indicated that La and Eu had a 25% probability of intracellular accumulation. The cell viability test, with exposure to a standard REEs, Th, and U solution in 2% v v-1 HNO3 medium (until 100 µg mL-1) and an aqueous solution of La2O3, Gd(NO3)3, Ce(NO3)3, and Eu2O3 (until 1000 µg mL-1), did not demonstrate cytotoxic effects on fibroblast cells. Considering the ingestion hazard quotient (HQing) and dermal hazard quotient (HQderm) obtained, it was suggested that there is no significant risk of non-carcinogenic effects (< 1). However, they had higher HQing values compared to HQderm, indicating that REEs pose more significant risk to human health through oral ingestion absorption than dermal absorption.

Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy Outcomes Under Different Levels of Glaucoma Severity: A Multicenter, Comparative Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the outcomes of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) under different levels of glaucoma severity. DESIGN: Retrospective, multicenter, before-and-after study. METHODS: One eye from all primary open-angle glaucoma patients who underwent GATT combined with cataract surgery (Phaco-GATT) or GATT stand-alone with 12 months of follow-up were included and divided according to glaucoma severity (mild = GI, moderate = GII, and advanced = GIII) and the outcomes compared. RESULTS: A total of 270 eyes were included: 90 in GI, 75 in GII, and 105 in GIII. The IOP was reduced from 18.6 ± 6.0 mm Hg in GI, 19.7 ± 6.4 mm Hg in GII, and 21.0 ± 7.9 mm Hg in GIII, preoperatively, to 11.9 ± 2.6 mm Hg in GI, 11.8 ± 2.1 mm Hg in GII, and 11.9 ± 3.0 mm Hg in GIII at 12 months postoperatively (P < .001 for all). The number of hypotensive ocular medications were reduced from 2.7 ± 1.0 in GI, 3.1 ± 0.8 in GII, and 3.2 ± 1.2 in GIII to 0.6 ± 0.9 in GI, 1.0 ± 1.1 in GII, and 1.2 ± 1.1 in GIII at the last postoperative visit (P < .001 for all). Relative success was achieved, at 1 year, in 93.8% of the eyes in GI, 89.0% in GII, and 88.1% in GIII (P = .3). Complete success was achieved in 61.8% of the eyes in GI, 43.8% in GII, and 37.6% in GIII (P = .007). No serious adverse event was observed in any group. CONCLUSIONS: GATT is a safe and effective procedure in glaucoma, regardless of its preoperative severity.

Harvesting the Power of Green Synthesis: Gold Nanoparticles Tailored for Prostate Cancer Therapy.

Biosynthetic gold nanoparticles (bAuNPs) present a promising avenue for enhancing bio-compatibility and offering an economically and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional production methods, achieved through a reduction in the use of hazardous chemicals. While the potential of bAuNPs as anticancer agents has been explored, there is a limited body of research focusing on the crucial physicochemical conditions influencing bAuNP production. In this study, we aim to identify the optimal growth phase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures that maximizes the redox potential and coordinates the formation of bAuNPs with increased efficiency. The investigation employs 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol (DCIP) as a redox indicator. Simultaneously, we explore the impact of temperature, pH, and incubation duration on the biosynthesis of bAuNPs, with a specific emphasis on their potential application as antitumor agents. Characterization of the resulting bAuNPs is conducted using ATR-FT-IR, TEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. To gain insights into the anticancer potential of bAuNPs, an experimental model is employed, utilizing both non-neoplastic (HPEpiC) and neoplastic (PC3) epithelial cell lines. Notably, P. aeruginosa cultures at 9 h/OD600 = 1, combined with biosynthesis at pH 9.0 for 24 h at 58 °C, produce bAuNPs that exhibit smaller, more spherical, and less aggregated characteristics. Crucially, these nanoparticles demonstrate negligible effects on HPEpiC cells while significantly impacting PC3 cells, resulting in reduced viability, migration, and lower IL-6 levels. This research lays the groundwork for the development of more specialized, economical, and ecologically friendly treatment modalities.

Polyphenols, Antioxidants, and Wound Healing of Lecythis pisonis Seed Coats.

To better use the Lecythis pisonis Cambess. biomass, this study investigates whether Sapucaia seed coats present wound healing properties. We analyzed the antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound healing-promoting potentials, plus cytotoxicity and stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor-A. The chemical composition was analyzed by positive ion mode electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. A total of 19 compounds were identified, such as proanthocyanidin A1, procyanidins A1, B2, and C1, epigallocatechin, and kaempferol (p-coumaroyl) glycoside. Potent antioxidant strength/index was verified for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (IC50 = 0.99 µg/mL) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (IC50 = 1.09 µg/mL). The extract did not present cytotoxicity and promoted significant cell migration and/or proliferation of fibroblasts (p < 0.05). Vascular endothelial growth factor-A was stimulated dose-dependently at 6 µg/mL (167.13 ± 8.30 pg/mL), 12.5 µg/mL (210.3 ± 14.2 pg/mL), and 25 µg/mL (411.6 ± 29.4 pg/mL). Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) (0.002 µg/mL) was stimulated at 215.98 pg/mL. Staphylococcus aureus was susceptible to the extract, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 31.25 µg/mL. The identified compounds benefit the antioxidant activity, promoting hemostasis for the wound healing process, indicating that this extract has the potential for use in dermatological cosmetics.

Unveiling the Path to Resilience: Prioritizing Mental Health, Sleep, and Nutrition in the Post-COVID Era.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted daily life, impacting relationships, work, and education. This has led to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, along with altered sleep patterns and eating behaviors. Quarantine and isolation have worsened mental health, especially in children and the elderly, due to the loss of activities and physical contact. Sleep disorders and negative dreams perpetuate poor sleep quality, increasing the risk of health issues. Sedentary lifestyles and emotional effects contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and obesity, exacerbated by disrupted routines and limited outdoor activities. Addressing these challenges requires prioritizing mental health, promoting healthy sleep habits, and addressing obesity factors. The pandemic has profoundly affected human well-being, but resilience, mental health, sleep, and nutrition can enhance overall well-being and adaptability in the post-COVID era. This comprehensive opinion aims to raise awareness of the wide-ranging impacts of this pandemic on various aspects of human well-being and to emphasize the importance of implementing strategies that prioritize mental health, improve sleep habits, address eating behaviors, and foster resilience to navigate and thrive in the face of future challenges.

Organizational culture of public health services from the perspective of nursing professionals / Cultura organizacional dos serviços públicos de saúde na perspectiva dos profissionais de enfermagem

INTRODUCTION: Culture is present in all environments, representing, in general, the ways of thinking, acting, feeling, learning, and sharing by a plurality of people. OBJECTIVE: Analyze the values and practices that characterize the organizational culture of health services of the public network from the perspective of nursing workers. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical, quantitative study was conducted with 156 nursing workers from the public health services of a city in the State of Goias, Brazil. The Brazilian Instrument for Assessment of Organizational Culture and a sociodemographic and labor characterization questionnaire were used. The data were analyzed in the STATA program. RESULTS: It was identified that the female sex was significant with the reward and training practices (p=0.050). The professional nurse category was related to the values of competitive, individualistic, satisfaction, and well-being professionalism (p=0.036 and p=0.041). Income was correlated with cooperative professionalism (p=0.010). CONCLUSION: Managers of health institutions must promote an adequate work environment, with the use of tools capable of assessing the needs and abilities of subjects.

INTRODUÇÃO: A cultura está presente em todos os ambientes, representa, em geral, os modos de pensar, agir, sentir, aprendidos e compartilhados por uma pluralidade de pessoas. OBJETIVO: Analisar os valores e práticas que caracterizam a cultura organizacional dos serviços de saúde da rede pública na perspectiva dos trabalhadores de enfermagem. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal, descritivo-analítico, quantitativo, com 156 trabalhadores de enfermagem dos serviços públicos de saúde de um município do estado de Goiás, Brasil. Foram utilizados o Instrumento Brasileiro de Avaliação da Cultura Organizacional e um questionário sociodemográfico e de caracterização do trabalho. Os dados foram analisados no programa STATA. RESULTADOS: Identificou-se que o sexo feminino foi significativo com as práticas de recompensa e treinamento (p=0,050). A categoria profissional de enfermagem esteve relacionada aos valores de profissionalismo competitivo, individualismo, satisfação e bem-estar (p=0,036 e p=0,041). A renda foi correlacionada com o profissionalismo cooperativo (p=0,010). CONCLUSÃO: É importante que os gestores das instituições de saúde promovam um ambiente de trabalho adequado, com a utilização de ferramentas capazes de avaliar as necessidades e habilidades dos participantes.

Development of colorimetric cellulose-based test-strip for the rapid detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV2 virus.

Given the pandemic situation, there is an urgent need for an accurate test to monitor antibodies anti-SARS-CoV-2, providing crucial epidemiological and clinical information to monitor the evolution of coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) and to stratify the immunized and asymptomatic population. Therefore, this paper describes a new cellulose-based test strip for rapid and cost-effective quantitative detection of antibodies to SARS-CoV2 virus by colorimetric transduction. For this purpose, Whatman paper was chemically modified with sodium metaperiodate to introduce aldehyde groups on its surface. Subsequently, the spike protein of the virus is covalently bound by forming an imine group. The chemical control of cellulose paper modification was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and contact angle analysis. Colorimetric detection of the antibodies was performed by a conventional staining method using Ponceau S solution as the dye. Color analysis was performed after image acquisition with a smartphone using Image J software. The color intensity varied linearly with the logarithm of the anti-S concentration (from 10 ng/mL to 1 µg/mL) in 500-fold diluted serum samples when plotted against the green coordinate extracted from digital images. The test strip was selective in the presence of nucleocapsid antibodies, urea, glucose, and bovine serum albumin with less than 15% interference, and detection of antibodies in human serum was successfully performed. Overall, this is a simple and affordable design that can be readily used for mass population screening and does not require sophisticated equipment or qualified personnel. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10570-022-04808-y.

Enhanced 3T3-L1 Differentiation into Adipocytes by Pioglitazone Pharmacological Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor-Gamma (PPAR-γ).

Despite the primary function of pioglitazone in antidiabetic treatment, this drug is a potent inducer of PPAR-γ, a crucial receptor that is involved in adipocyte differentiation. In this work, we propose an optimized methodology to enhance the differentiation of 3T3-L1 fibroblasts into adipocytes. This process is crucial for adipocyte secretome release, which is fundamental for understanding the molecular mechanisms that are involved in obesity for in vitro studies. To achieve this, a pioglitazone dose-response assay was determined over a range varying from 0 to 10 µM. Lipid accumulation was evaluated using Oil-Red-O. The results showed that 10 µM pioglitazone enhanced differentiation and increased secretome production. This secretome was then added into two cell lines: PC3 and RAW264.7. In the PC3 cells, an increase of aggressiveness was observed in terms of viability and proliferation, with the increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, in RAW264.7 cells, a reduction of viability and proliferation was observed, with a decrease in the overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Overall, the present work constitutes an improved method for adipocyte secretome production that is suitable for experimental biology studies and that could help with our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying adiposity influence in other cells.

Analysis of Gliricidia sepium Leaves by MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging.

When investigating the potential use of plants as a raw material for an all-natural cosmetic formulation, the main parameters are the chemical composition, antioxidant potential, antimicrobial action, and toxicity. Additionally, the production of natural cosmetics should also consider the availability of primary materials and the environmental and socioeconomic impact. Gliricidia sepium is a species that produces a large amount of plant material, being cultivated in the agroforestry system. However, studies of phytochemical composition and chemical spatial distribution are scarcely using the MALDI MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry) and MALDI MSI (mass spectrometry imaging) techniques. A methodology was developed to optimize ionization parameters and analysis conditions by evaluating the efficiency of three matrices: α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), and 2-mercaptobenzothiazole in MALDI MS analysis. All results were compared to ESI MS (electrospray ionization mass spectrometry), and afterward, MALDI MSI analysis was performed on the leaf surface. This study showed through phytochemical analysis that G. sepium leaves are composed of polyphenols and tannins, concluding that the methanolic extract had a higher amount of flavonoid content. Four compounds were identified on the leaf surface, and their spatial distribution was analyzed by MALDI MS using DHB as a matrix. Kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and some fatty acids showed potential applicability for cosmetical use. All the extracts presented antioxidant activity or antimicrobial action and no cytotoxicity. Therefore, extracts of G. sepium could be used as raw materials in cosmetics.

Paper-based aptasensor for colorimetric detection of osteopontin.

This work presents a novel cellulose-based aptasensor for the colorimetric detection of a cancer biomarker, osteopontin (OPN), in point-of-care (PoC) analysis. For this purpose, the cellulose paper was chemically modified with (mercaptopropyl)methyldimetoxisilane to attach the thiolated aptamer, which acts as a biological detection layer. The surface modification was checked by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Colorimetric detection was performed using a conventional staining solution, Bradford reagent. The color analysis was performed by evaluating the RGB coordinates provided by the ImageJ program from the photographs taken with a smartphone. Overall, the biosensor shows good sensitivity with a wide linear range (R > 0.998) of 5-1000 ng/mL and a detection limit lower than 5 ng/mL in buffer and commercial human serum solution, after 30 min of incubation. In addition, this aptasensor shows good selectivity to some interfering species such as bovine serum albumin and recombinant OPN. Analytical data obtained from spiked serum samples confirm the accuracy of the method. Importantly, it is a broad-spectrum method that tends to meet the criteria of REASSURED (real-time connectivity, ease of sampling, affordability, specificity, ease of use, speed and robustness, device freedom, and deliverability) for global testing.

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity and chemical composition of Renealmia petasites Gagnep.

The study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and the anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroethanolic rhizomes, stems, and leaf extracts of Renealmia petasites using in vitro and in vivo assays. The chemical composition of the extracts was characterized in a linear iron trap mass spectrometer. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content were determined by spectrophotometry analyses. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages evaluating the influence on the production of superoxide anion (O2-), nitric oxide (NO), and the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). In vivo effects were determined using the air pouch model in which were inoculated carrageenan and thereafter treated with 50 mg/kg of the hydroethanolic extracts of R. petasites. After 4 and 24 h, the cellular influx, protein exudation, cytokines, and nitric oxide were evaluated. Eight compounds were tentatively identified in the R. petasites extracts, suggesting five diarylheptanoids, one flavonoid, and two fatty alcohols. The in vitro results showed that the extracts were capable of blocking free radicals and/or inhibiting their intracellular actions by inhibiting the production of important mediators of the inflammatory process, such as NO, O2-, TNF-α, and IL-6. In vivo, R. petasites significantly decrease the influx of leukocytes, mainly neutrophils, protein exudation, NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentration in the air pouch model. The results evidenced that R. petasites can be considered a promising alternative therapy for the treatment and management of osteoarthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

Selection of a new peptide homing SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells.

Breast cancer diagnosis remains a challenge, mostly due to its heterogeneity. This reality translates in delayed treatments, increasing treatment aggressiveness and lower chances of overall survival. The conventional detection techniques, although becoming increasingly sophisticated each year, still lack the ability to provide reliable conclusions without being time consuming, expensive, and uncomfortable for the patients. The identification of novel biomarkers for breast cancer research is therefore of utmost relevance for an early diagnosis. Moreover, breast cancer-specific peptide moieties can be used to develop novel targeted drug delivery systems. In this work, we used phage display to identify a novel peptide with specificity to the SK-BR-3 breast cancer cell line. Cytometry assays confirmed its specificity, while bioinformatics and docking studies predicted the potential biomarkers at the SK-BR-3 cells' surface. These findings can be potentially useful in the clinical context, contributing to more specific and targeted therapeutic solutions against HER2-positive breast cancer subtypes.

Stability and Cytotoxicity of a Cosmetic Cream Containing Oil from Lecythis pisonis Cambess (Sapucaia) Nuts.

Lecythis pisonis nuts are rich in tocopherols, polyphenols, and fatty acids, and hence, the quality of oil was analyzed for use in the elaboration of skin cream. Nut oil was extracted with hexane in a Soxhlet apparatus. The quality and safety of the oil were tested by using established protocols from Adolf Lutz Institute. Three concentrations, 1%, 5%, and 10%, of oil were incorporated into a formulated cream. The oil formulations were evaluated for their stability, organoleptic characteristics, pH, viscosity, spreadability, challenge test, cellular viability, and their response to microbial contamination, as recommended by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA). Quality analysis demonstrated the high quality of the obtained oil, with no traces of heavy metals and no toxic effects on ingestion. The cream containing L. pisonis nut oil is stable, has an effective preservative system, and is considered safe for use because it presented no toxicity in human cells. A stabilizer is required to maintain the pH in the range suitable for a body cream. Of the formulations tested, the cream containing 5% nut oil was the most stable and had presented the best organoleptic characteristics.

The Brazilian Portuguese version of the Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS-Br) showed acceptable reliability, validity and responsiveness in chronic low back pain.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to adapt the Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS) into Brazilian Portuguese and evaluate its measurement properties, given as reliability, validity, and responsiveness in patients with non-specific Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP). METHODS: A total of 108 patients with a mean age of 46.62 years (SD = 9.98) and CLBP participated in this longitudinal study. Participants were oriented on undertaking the prescribed exercises in the first session, and adherence behavior was assessed after 1 week, and finally reassessed after 2 weeks (test-retest reliability). Three weeks after the first assessment, they were invited again to full fill the EARS (responsiveness). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) and Cronbach's α were used to assess test-retest reliability and internal consistency, respectively. Spearman's correlation and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to assess construct validity, and the Receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve (AUC) were used to analyze responsiveness. RESULTS: The one-factor EARS-Br (adherence behavior) structure with 6 items showed acceptable fit indexes (comparative fit index and goodness of fit index> 0.90 and root-mean-square error of approximation< 0.08). The EARS-Br scale showed acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.88) and excellent reliability (ICC = 0.91 [95% CI 0.86-0.94]). Mild to moderate correlations were observed between EARS-Br total score vs. disability, pain catastrophizing, depression/anxiety, fear-avoidance and pain intensity. A Minimally Important Change (MIC) of 5.5 in the EARS-Br total score was considered as a meaningful change in the adherence behavior (AUC = 0.82). Moderate accuracy (AUC = 0.89) was obtained for a 17/24 total EARS cutoff score after home exercise was prescribed. The sensitivity and specificity were also acceptable (greater than 80%). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated acceptable EARS-Br reliability, validity, and responsiveness for patients with CLBP. A final score of 17/24 on EARS after the prescription of home-exercise could be used as a cut-off for an acceptable adherence behavior associated with improvement in patient outcomes.

Cicatrização: uso de matriz de colágeno / Healing: use of collagen matrix

Resumo A matriz de colágeno Ologen TM é um novo agente antifibrótico composto por uma matriz porosa de atelocolageno tipo I e glicosaminoglicanos reticulados, que pode ser utilizado como uma alternativa para a modulação da cicatrização nas cirurgias. Por ser altamente poroso e biodegradável, este implante auxilia nos processos de reparação fisiológicos que ocorrem no tecido conjuntivo e epitelial da lesão, sem a formação de tecido fibrótico, o qual acarreta insucesso cirúrgico e elevação da PIO. A Trabeculectomia (TREC) é considerada a cirurgia padrão para o tratamento do glaucoma, no entanto as taxas de sucesso cirúrgico a médio e longo prazo estão relacionadas a cicatrização do sítio operatório, envolvendo principalmente o tecido conjuntival e tenoniano. O processo de cicatrização é divido em 4 fases principais: coagulativa, inflamatória, proliferativa e remodeladora, com uma série de cascatas químicas e fatores bioquímicos liberados na tentativa de restabelecer a hemostasia. Diversas pesquisas na literatura já demonstraram os efeitos benéficos na cicatrização ao utilizar a matriz de colágeno Ologen em cirurgias oftalmológicas, além das possíveis complicações. Os resultados dos atuais estudos com implante de Ologen para o tratamento de glaucoma são encorajadores e promissores. No entanto, ensaios clínicos randomizados futuros com seguimento a longo prazo são necessários para avaliarmos a segurança e a eficácia do novo implante na modulação da cicatrização, alcançando melhores taxas de sucesso cirúrgico.

Abstract The Ologen™ collagen matrix is a new antifibrotic agent composed of a porous matrix of type I atelocolagene and cross-linked glycosaminoglycans, which can be used as an alternative for the modulation of healing in surgeries. Because it is highly porous and biodegradable, this implant assists in the physiological repair processes that occur in the connective and epithelial tissue of the lesion without the formation of fibrotic tissue, which leads to surgical failure and IOP elevation. The Trabeculectomy (TREC) is considered the standard surgery for the treatment of glaucoma; however, the surgical success rates in the medium and long term are related to surgical site healing, mainly involving conjunctival and tenonian tissue. The healing process is divided into 4 main phases: coagulative, inflammatory, proliferative and remodeling, with a series of chemical cascades and biochemical factors released in an attempt to restore hemostasis. Since several researches in the literature have already demonstrated the beneficial effects on healing by using the Ologen collagen matrix in ophthalmic surgeries, in addition to possible complications. The results of current Ologen implant studies for the treatment of glaucoma are encouraging and promising. However, future randomized clinical trials with long-term follow-up are necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the new implant in modulating healing, achieving better rates of surgical success.

Internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária: um estudo ecológico / Hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions: an ecological study

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a tendência das internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária e sua relação com a cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico de séries temporais utilizando registros do Sistema de Informação Hospitalar referentes ao período de 2005 a 2015, com dados para o estado de Goiás. As análises de tendência foram realizadas por regressão linear generalizada pelo método de Prais-Winsten com variância robusta, que permitiu verificar se a tendência de internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária foi estacionária (p > 0,05), declinante (p < 0,05 e coeficiente de regressão negativo) ou ascendente (p < 0,05 e coeficiente de regressão positivo) em cada região de Goiás e por grupo diagnóstico estratificado por sexo. A correlação de Pearson foi utilizada para verificar o grau de associação entre cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família e a taxa de internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária. RESULTADOS: As internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária foram responsáveis por 1.092.070 (30,0%) internações em Goiás. A taxa média de internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária foi estaticamente menor que a taxa por outras condições no período analisado (167,6% versus 386,2%; t = −13,18; p < 0,001). Verificou-se uma tendência decrescente das taxas de internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária em Goiás e na maioria das regiões de saúde. As tendências variaram entre os sexos nos grupos de causas. Observou-se correlação negativa entre a cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família e a taxa de internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária no estado e também na maioria das regiões de saúde. CONCLUSÕES: As internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária tiveram tendência de redução significativa ao longo do período analisado. Apesar dessa diminuição progressiva, essa taxa permanece elevada e a tendência de redução não foi linear para todas as causas. Estes resultados possibilitam direcionar políticas públicas, ao desenhar um panorama geral das internações por condições sensíveis à atenção primária por sexo e região no estado.(AU)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the trend of hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions and its relationship with the Family Health Strategy coverage. METHODS: Ecological study of time series using the records from the Hospital Information System, from 2005 to 2015, with data for the state of Goiás, Brazil. Trend analyses were performed by the generalized linear regression method of Prais-Winsten with robust variance, which allowed to verify if the trend of hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions was stationary (p > 0.05), declining (p < 0.05 and negative regression coefficient), or ascending (p < 0.05 and positive regression coefficient) in each region of Goiás and for each diagnosis group, stratified by sex. Pearson correlation was used to verify the degree of association between the Family Health Strategy coverage and the rate of hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions. RESULTS: Hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions accounted for 1,092,070 (30.0%) of hospitalizations in Goiás. The average hospitalizations rate due to primary care sensitive conditions was statically less than the rate for other conditions in the analyzed period (167.6% against 386.2%; t = −13.18; p < 0.001). There has been a downward trend in hospitalizations trend due to primary care sensitive conditions in Goiás and in most health regions. The trends varied between sexes in the groups of causes. We observed a negative correlation between the Family Health Strategy coverage and the hospitalizations trend due to primary care sensitive conditions in the state and also in most health regions. CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions had a significant reduction trend over the analyzed period. Despite this progressive decrease, this rate remains high and the reduction trend was not linear for all causes. These results allow for directing public policies, while drawing a general overview of hospitalizations due to primary care sensitive conditions by sex and region in the state.(AU)

INTRACELLULAR PERSISTENCE OF ENTEROAGGREGATIVE ESCHERICHIA COLI INDUCES A PROINFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES SECRETION IN INTESTINAL EPITHELIAL T84 CELLS.

BACKGROUND: The competence of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) to adhere to the intestinal epithelium of the host is a key role to the colonization and disease development. The virulence genes are crucial for EAEC pathogenicity during adherence, internalization and persistence in the host. The overwhelming majority of antigen encounters in a host occurs on the intestine surface, which is considered a part of innate mucosal immunity. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) can be activated by microorganisms and induce an immune response. OBJECTIVE: The present study investigated the interaction of invasive EAEC strains with T84 intestinal epithelial cell line in respect to bacterial invasiveness, persistence and cytokines production. METHODS: We evaluated intracellular persistence of invasive EAEC strains (H92/3, I49/3 and the prototype 042) and production of cytokines by sandwich ELISA in T84 cells upon 24 hours of infection. RESULTS: The survival rates of the prototype 042 was 0.5x103 CFU/mL while survival of I49/3 and H92/3 reached 3.2x103 CFU/mL and 1.4x103 CFU/mL, respectively. Infection with all EAEC strains tested induced significant amounts of IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α compared to uninfected T84 cells. CONCLUSION: These data showed that infection by invasive EAEC induce a proinflammatory immune response in intestinal epithelial T84 cells.

Virola oleifera-capped gold nanoparticles showing radical-scavenging activity and low cytotoxicity.

The development of effective nanoparticle therapeutics has been hindered by their surface characteristics, such as hydrophobicity and charge. Therefore, the success of biomedical applications with nanoparticles is governed by the control of these characteristics. In this article, we report an efficient green capping method for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by a reduction with sodium citrate and capping with Virola oleifera (Vo), which is a green exudate rich in polyphenols and flavonoids. The Vo-capped AuNPs were characterized by UV, DLS, FTIR, Raman, TEM, DPPH, FRAP and their cytotoxicity was evaluated on the viability of Murine macrophage cell. The AuNPs had an average particle size of 15 nm and were stable over a long time, as indicated by their unchanged SPR and zeta potential values. These nanoparticles were assessed for their antioxidant potential using DPPH and FRAP and demonstrated the highest antioxidant activities and low cytotoxicity. We propose that the Virola oleifera-capped AuNPs have potential biomedical applications.

Induction of NAD (P)H: Quinone reductase 1 (QR1) and antioxidant activities in vitro of 'Toranja Burarama' (Citrus maxima [Burm.] Merr.).

Toranja 'Burarama', Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. (Citrus grandis), is a new citrus discovered in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. As several varieties of citrus are known to possess antioxidant and cancer chemopreventive properties, the aim of the study was to evaluate in vitro if this Toranja possess these properties. The antioxidant activity, the potential to induce quinone reductase 1, and the influence on cell viability were measured. ESI(-)FT-ICR MS analysis was also performed and identified flavonoids, coumarins, and fatty acids in the extract. The ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts of the peels presented the highest antioxidant activity in vitro by DPPH (IC50  = 298.3 ± 2.6 µg/ml and 303.8 ± 0.4 µg/ml), ABTS assay (IC50  = 298.2 ± 6.4 µg/ml and 296.4 ± 2.5 µg/ml), and FRAP (IC50  = 234.6 ± 1.8 µg/ml and 398.1 ± 3.8 µg/ml). The ethyl acetate extract of the peel induced quinone reductase 1 activity in Hepa1c1c7 cells, indicating that C. maxima exhibited cancer chemopreventive properties.

A persistência intracelular de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa induz a secreção de citocinas pró-inflamatórias em células epiteliais intestinais T84 / Intracellular persistence of enteroaggregative escherichia coli induces a proinflammatory cytokines secretion in intestinal epithelial t84 cells

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The competence of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) to adhere to the intestinal epithelium of the host is a key role to the colonization and disease development. The virulence genes are crucial for EAEC pathogenicity during adherence, internalization and persistence in the host. The overwhelming majority of antigen encounters in a host occurs on the intestine surface, which is considered a part of innate mucosal immunity. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) can be activated by microorganisms and induce an immune response. OBJECTIVE: The present study investigated the interaction of invasive EAEC strains with T84 intestinal epithelial cell line in respect to bacterial invasiveness, persistence and cytokines production. METHODS: We evaluated intracellular persistence of invasive EAEC strains (H92/3, I49/3 and the prototype 042) and production of cytokines by sandwich ELISA in T84 cells upon 24 hours of infection. RESULTS: The survival rates of the prototype 042 was 0.5x103 CFU/mL while survival of I49/3 and H92/3 reached 3.2x103 CFU/mL and 1.4x103 CFU/mL, respectively. Infection with all EAEC strains tested induced significant amounts of IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α compared to uninfected T84 cells. CONCLUSION: These data showed that infection by invasive EAEC induce a proinflammatory immune response in intestinal epithelial T84 cells.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A competência de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa (EAEC) para aderir ao epitélio intestinal do hospedeiro é um papel fundamental para a colonização e o desenvolvimento da doença. Os genes de virulência são cruciais para a patogenicidade de EAEC durante a aderência, a internalização e a persistência no hospedeiro. A grande maioria dos encontros de antígenos em um hospedeiro ocorre na superfície do intestino, que é considerada parte da imunidade inata da mucosa. As células epiteliais intestinais (IECs) podem ser ativadas por micro-organismos e induzir uma resposta imune. OBJETIVO: O presente estudo investigou a interação de cepas invasoras de EAEC com a linhagem celular epitelial intestinal T84 em relação a invasão bacteriana, a persistência e a produção de citocinas. MÉTODOS: Avaliamos a persistência intracelular de cepas invasoras de EAEC (H92/3, I49/3 e o protótipo 042) e a produção de citocinas por ELISA "sanduíche" em células T84 após 24 horas de infecção. RESULTADOS: As taxas de sobrevivência da cepa protótipo 042 foi de 0,5x103 UFC/mL, enquanto a sobrevivência de I49/3 e H92/3 atingiu 3,2x103 UFC/mL e 1,4x103 UFC/mL, respectivamente. A infecção com todas as cepas EAEC testadas induziu quantidades significativas de IL-8, IL-6 e TNF-α em comparação com células T84 não infectadas. CONCLUSÃO: Estes dados mostraram que a infecção por EAEC invasoras induzem uma resposta imune pró-inflamatória em células epiteliais intestinais T84.