Diversity and enzymatic, biosurfactant and phytotoxic activities of culturable Ascomycota fungi present in marine sediments obtained near the South Shetland Islands, maritime Antarctica.

We studied the culturable fungal community recovered from deep marine sediments in the maritime Antarctic, and assessed their capabilities to produce exoenzymes, emulsifiers and metabolites with phytotoxic activity. Sixty-eight Ascomycota fungal isolates were recovered and identified. The most abundant taxon recovered was the yeast Meyerozyma guilliermondii, followed by the filamentous fungi Penicillium chrysogenum, P. cf. palitans, Pseudeurotium cf. bakeri, Thelebolus balaustiformis, Antarctomyces psychrotrophicus and Cladosporium sp. Diversity indices displayed low values overall, with the highest values obtained at shallow depth, decreasing to the deepest location sampled. Only M. guilliermondii and P. cf. palitans were detected in the sediments at all depths sampled, and were the most abundant taxa at all sample sites. The most abundant enzymes detected were proteases, followed by invertases, cellulases, lipases, carrageenases, agarases, pectinases and esterases. Four isolates showed good biosurfactant activity, particularly the endemic species A. psychrotrophicus. Twenty-four isolates of P. cf. palitans displayed strong phytotoxic activities against the models Lactuca sativa and Allium schoenoprasum. The cultivable fungi recovered demonstrated good biosynthetic activity in the production of hydrolytic exoenzymes, biosurfactant molecules and metabolites with phytotoxic activity, reinforcing the importance of documenting the taxonomic, ecological and biotechnological properties of fungi present in deep oceanic sediments of the Southern Ocean.

Contribution by Giant petrels and Brown skuas to soil phosphatization in Harmony Point - Maritime Antarctica.

This research was conducted for the purpose to evaluate the contribution Giant petrels and Brown skuas nestings in the formation of ornithogenic soils by the phosphatization process in Harmony Point, Maritime Antarctic. Ten nests were selected to collect topsoil samples (0-20 cm), from 0 m up to 20 m away, with regular spacing of 2 m. The analysis of the samples included the physical, chemical, mineralogical and geochemical analyzes. Phosphate minerals were identified. The presence of high content of some trace elements, such as Zn, Cu and Sr is associated with the bird's excrements. Total-P and bioavailable-P recorded higher levels. This result demonstrates the importance of the time factor in the bird's nesting, as well as in the development of the soil in these soil-forming environment. Phosphatization in these areas is not restricted to the specific location of the nest, since high values of P have been identified at distances between 8 and 12 m, from de nest's top. This suggests the transport of P rich solutions and phosphatized material along fractures by the freeze-thaw cycles, contributing to increase the geographical expression of this phenomenon in this ice-free area, consequently the development of soils and the establishment of vegetation.

Seasonal variations in botanical and nutritive composition, forage availability and ingestive behavior of grazing goats in the semiarid region.

The aim of this study was to assess how the different seasons of the year impact the botanical composition, availability, and quality of forage in the caatinga, as well as the frequency of ingestion and ingestive behavior of goats in a semi-arid region. The experiment used four crossbred castrated males, with an average weight of 30.2 ± 4.76 kg and an average age of 20 months. The experimental period lasted for 12 months, encompassing two rainy seasons and one dry season within this timeframe, with three replications (data collection) per season. All collected forage was categorized based on its stratum (herbaceous, woody, and litter), and a chemical composition analysis was conducted. The goats' behavior was assessed by observing variables such as feeding time, idleness, rumination, displacement, social interaction, and water intake. The findings revealed clear seasonality in both availability and quality of forage, consequently influencing the botanical composition of the goats' diet and their ingestive behavior. In addition, during the grazing period, the goats showed a shift grazing habit, in which idle and feeding peaks were alternated with increased displacement during the morning and rumination in the afternoon. The seasons of the year strongly impact the availability and nutritional quality of forage in the caatinga biome, consequently influencing the ingestive behavior and dietary composition of goats in this ecosystem.

Ileal inflammation is reduced due to treatment with a metalloprotease from BmooMP-α-I snake venom in an experimental model of Toxoplasma gondii infection.

The selection process for advanced therapies in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) must prioritize safety, especially when considering new biologic agents or oral molecule modulators. In C57BL/6 mice, oral infection with Toxoplasma gondii induces intestinal inflammation through excessive tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production, making TNF neutralization a potential therapeutic intervention. Considering this, the present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of BmooMP-α-I, a snake venom metalloprotease isolated from Bothrops moojeni, which could promote TNF hydrolysis, in treating T. gondii-induced ileitis. The results showed that C57BL/6 mice orally infected with 50 cysts of T. gondii from the Me49 strain and treated with BmooMP-α-I exhibited prolonged survival and improved morbidity scores. Additionally, the treatment ameliorated both the macroscopic and microscopic aspects of the intestine, reduced macrophage influx, and decreased the production of inflammatory mediators by mesenteric lymph node cells. These findings provide compelling experimental evidence supporting the ability of BmooMP-α-I to alleviate ileal inflammation. Considering that the currently available therapeutic protocols are not completely effective and often result in side effects, the exploration of alternative strategies involving novel therapeutic agents, as demonstrated in this study, has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases.

Spatial and Scientometric study of the Brazilian scientific production on Antarctic soils and permafrost.

This article carried out the first scientometric and spatial analysis of Brazilian scientific production on Antarctic soils and permafrost, based on all publications available from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Information on co-authorship, citation, research topics, and sampling sites was used to understand the social and theoretical structure as well as the spatial dynamics of this research field in Brazil over the last 25 years. We highlight that Brazil is presently, the main country to study the soils and permafrost of Maritime Antarctica, in addition to having an international robust and prolific production, with high impact on the literature, and widely distributed throughout the studied region. It was also possible to identify potential future international partners, new research locations and strategic research themes.

Improved prediction of site-rates from structure with averaging across homologs.

Variation in mutation rates at sites in proteins can largely be understood by the constraint that proteins must fold into stable structures. Models that calculate site-specific rates based on protein structure and a thermodynamic stability model have shown a significant but modest ability to predict empirical site-specific rates calculated from sequence. Models that use detailed atomistic models of protein energetics do not outperform simpler approaches using packing density. We demonstrate that a fundamental reason for this is that empirical site-specific rates are the result of the average effect of many different microenvironments in a phylogeny. By analyzing the results of evolutionary dynamics simulations, we show how averaging site-specific rates across many extant protein structures can lead to correct recovery of site-rate prediction. This result is also demonstrated in natural protein sequences and experimental structures. Using predicted structures, we demonstrate that atomistic models can improve upon contact density metrics in predicting site-specific rates from a structure. The results give fundamental insights into the factors governing the distribution of site-specific rates in protein families.

A morphofunctional study of the jumping apparatus in globular springtails.

Springtails are notable for their jumping apparatus and latch-mediated spring mechanism. The challenge, in the light of the tiny size and rapid movement of these organisms, has been to understand the morphological intricacies of this spring system. This study takes an approach that integrates SEM, MicroCT, cLSM and high-speed video recordings to understand the composition and functionality of the jumping apparatus in Megalothorax minimus (Neelipleona), Dicyrtomina ornata and Dicyrtomina minuta (Symphypleona). We focus on reconstructing, describing, and understanding the functioning of structures such as basal plates, musculature and furca. The dimensions of the jumping apparatus in Dicyrtomina and Megalothorax differ significantly from those in elongated springtails. A hypothesis of functional coherence between taxa, based on muscle connections and basal plates, is postulated. High-speed video recordings provide information on: 1) furca release timing and function during jumping and self-righting; 2) performance properties of manubrium, dens and mucro in interaction with the ground and in take-off; 3) possible pre-release furca moves. The study underscores the need for further research employing a variety of visualization methods in order to explore additional aspects such as retinaculum unlatching and furca flexion/extension muscles.

Corticomotor Control of Lumbar Erector Spinae in Postural and Voluntary Tasks: The Influence of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Current Direction.

Lumbar erector spinae (LES) contribute to spine postural and voluntary control. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) preferentially depolarizes different neural circuits depending on the direction of electrical currents evoked in the brain. Posteroanterior current (PA-TMS) and anteroposterior (AP-TMS) current would, respectively, depolarize neurons in the primary motor cortex (M1) and the premotor cortex. These regions may contribute differently to LES control. This study examined whether responses evoked by PA- and AP-TMS are different during the preparation and execution of LES voluntary and postural tasks. Participants performed a reaction time task. A Warning signal indicated to prepare to flex shoulders (postural; n = 15) or to tilt the pelvis (voluntary; n = 13) at the Go signal. Single- and paired-pulse TMS (short-interval intracortical inhibition-SICI) were applied using PA- and AP-TMS before the Warning signal (baseline), between the Warning and Go signals (preparation), or 30 ms before the LES onset (execution). Changes from baseline during preparation and execution were calculated in AP/PA-TMS. In the postural task, MEP amplitude was higher during the execution than that during preparation independently of the current direction (p = 0.0002). In the voluntary task, AP-MEP amplitude was higher during execution than that during preparation (p = 0.016). More PA inhibition (SICI) was observed in execution than that in preparation (p = 0.028). Different neural circuits are preferentially involved in the two motor tasks assessed, as suggested by different patterns of change in execution of the voluntary task (AP-TMS, increase; PA-TMS, no change). Considering that PA-TMS preferentially depolarize neurons in M1, it questions their importance in LES voluntary control.

Fatty Acid Amides Suppress Proliferation via Cannabinoid Receptors and Promote the Apoptosis of C6 Glioma Cells in Association with Akt Signaling Pathway Inhibition.

A glioma is a type of tumor that acts on the Central Nervous System (CNS) in a highly aggressive manner. Gliomas can occasionally be inaccurately diagnosed and treatments have low efficacy, meaning that patients exhibit a survival of less than one year after diagnosis. Due to factors such as intratumoral cell variability, inefficient chemotherapy drugs, adaptive resistance development to drugs and tumor recurrence after resection, the search continues for new drugs that can inhibit glioma cell growth. As such, analogues of endocannabinoids, such as fatty acid amides (FAAs), represent interesting alternatives for inhibiting tumor growth, since FAAs can modulate several metabolic pathways linked to cancer and, thus, may hold potential for managing glioblastoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of two fatty ethanolamides (FAA1 and FAA2), synthetized via direct amidation from andiroba oil (Carapa guianensis Aublet), on C6 glioma cells. FAA1 and FAA2 reduced C6 cell viability, proliferation and migratory potential in a dose-dependent manner and were not toxic to normal retina glial cells. Both FAAs caused apoptotic cell death through the loss of mitochondrial integrity (ΔΨm), probably by activating cannabinoid receptors, and inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway. In conclusion, FAAs derived from natural products may have the potential to treat glioma-type brain cancer.

Endolithic Fungal Diversity in Antarctic Oligocene Rock Samples Explored Using DNA Metabarcoding.

In this study, we evaluated the fungal diversity present associated with cores of Oligocene rocks using a DNA metabarcoding approach. We detected 940,969 DNA reads grouped into 198 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) representing the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Mortierellomycota, Chytridiomycota, Mucoromycota, Rozellomycota, Blastocladiomycota, Monoblepharomycota, Zoopagomycota, Aphelidiomycota (Fungi) and the fungal-like Oomycota (Stramenopila), in rank abundance order. Pseudogymnoascus pannorum, Penicillium sp., Aspergillus sp., Cladosporium sp., Aspergillaceae sp. and Diaporthaceae sp. were assessed to be dominant taxa, with 22 fungal ASVs displaying intermediate abundance and 170 being minor components of the assigned fungal diversity. The data obtained displayed high diversity indices, while rarefaction indicated that the majority of the diversity was detected. However, the diversity indices varied between the cores analysed. The endolithic fungal community detected using a metabarcoding approach in the Oligocene rock samples examined contains a rich and complex mycobiome comprising taxa with different lifestyles, comparable with the diversity reported in recent studies of a range of Antarctic habitats. Due to the high fungal diversity detected, our results suggest the necessity of further research to develop strategies to isolate these fungi in culture for evolutionary, physiological, and biogeochemical studies, and to assess their potential role in biotechnological applications.

Tuning Biocompatibility and Bactericidal Efficacy as a Function of Doping of Gold in ZnO Nanocrystals.

Doping nanoparticles represents a strategy for modulating the energy levels and surface states of nanocrystals (NCs), thereby enhancing their efficiency and mitigating toxicity. Thus, we herein focus on the successful synthesis of pure and gold (Au)-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals (NCs), investigating their physical-chemical properties and evaluating their applicability and toxicity through in vitro and in vivo assessments. The optical, structural, and photocatalytic characteristics of these NCs were scrutinized by using optical absorption (OA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and methylene blue degradation, respectively. The formation and doping of the NCs were corroborated by the XRD and OA results. While the introduction of Au as a dopant did induce changes in the phase and size of ZnO, a high concentration of Au ions in ZnO led to a reduction in their photocatalytic activity. This demonstrated a restricted antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Remarkably, Au-doped counterparts exhibited enhanced biocompatibility in comparison to ZnO, as evidenced in both in vitro (murine macrophage cells) and in vivo (Drosophila melanogaster) studies. Furthermore, confocal microscopy images showed a high luminescence of Au-doped ZnO NCs in vivo. Thus, this study underscores the potential of Au doping of ZnO NCs as a promising technique to enhance material properties and increase biocompatibility.

Prevalência tomográfica de variações anatômicas no complexo nasossinusal em pacientes com sinusite não odontogênica / Tomographic prevalence of anatomical variations in the nasosinusal complex in patients with non-odontogenic sinusitis

Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a prevalência de variações anatômicas no complexo nasossinusal por meio de tomografia computadorizada (TC) em pacientes com sinusite não odontogênica. Métodos: Um estudo observacional e retrospectivo consistiu em 860 prontuários com indicação de tomografias computadorizadas multislice para avaliação de sinusite. A sinusite odontogênica foi caracterizada pela presença de espessamento da mucosa sinusal maior que 2 milímetros e ausência de alterações dentárias na região. Posteriormente, foram avaliadas as variações do complexo nasossinusal e realizada uma análise descritiva. Em seguida, 33 tomografias computadorizadas foram analisadas com sinusopatia não odontogênica, e o complexo nasossinusal foi avaliado quanto à presença das seguintes variações anatômicas como desvio do septo nasal associado a esporão ósseo, concha média bolhos, aumento do seio frontal entre outras. Resultados: Variações anatômicas foram observadas em 87,9% dos casos, sendo 15 do gênero masculino (46,0%) e 18 do gênero feminino (54,0%) e distribuídos em 45,5% dos pacientes entre 41-60 anos. A variação anatômica mais frequente foi a concha média bolhosa (37,9%), seguida de septações no seio maxilar (10,3%) e seio frontal alargado (13,8%). Conclusão:Verificou-se uma considerável incidência de variações anatômicas associadas à sinusite não odontogênica, com evidência para a concha média bolhosa.

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of anatomical variations in the sinonasal complex using computed tomography (CT) in patients with non-odontogenic sinusitis. Methods: This observational and retrospective study involved the analysis of 860 multislice CT scans prescribed for sinusitis evaluation. Non-odontogenic sinusitis was characterized by the presence of sinus mucosal thickening exceeding 2 millimeters and the absence of dental changes in the region. Subsequently, sinonasal complex variations were evaluated, and a descriptive analysis was conducted. Subsequently, 33 CT scans with non-odontogenic sinusopathy were analyzed, and the sinonasal complex was evaluated for the presence of the following anatomical variations: deviation of the nasal septum associated with a bony spur, bullous middle concha, unilateral hypoplasia of the maxillary sinus, among others. Results: Anatomical variations were observed in 87.9% of cases, with 15 males (46.0%) and 18 female (54.0%), distributed among patients aged 41-60 years (45.5%). The most frequent anatomical variation was the bullous middle concha (37.9%), followed by septations in the maxillary sinus (10.3%) and enlarged frontal sinus (13.8%). Conclusion: A considerable incidence of anatomical variations associated with non-odontogenic sinusitis was observed, with evidence of a bullous middle concha.

Alopecia temporária após tratamento endovascular relacionada a uma malformação arteriovenosa em face: relato de caso / Temporary alopecia after endovascular treatment related to an arteriovenous malformation in the face: case report / Alopecia temporal posterior a tratamiento endovascular relacionado con malformación arteriovenosa en la cara: reporte de caso

Objetivo: relatar um caso de alopecia temporária após tratamento endovascular com exposição por fluoroscopia devido a uma malformação arteriovenosa na face. Detalhamento do caso: sexo masculino, 34 anos, com queixa de lesão na asa nasal, lábio superior e lateral da face (direita). O paciente trouxe exame de angioressonância apresentando uma malformação arteriovenosa em face com nutrição pela artéria facial e drenagem pela veia mandibular. Como tratamento foi optado uma arteriografia diagnóstica para melhor avaliação de vascularização da malformação arteriovenosa seguida de embolização com onyx® (mistura de etileno vinil álcool copolímero) que fornece o contraste necessário para a visibilização da mistura sob fluoroscopia. O procedimento foi realizado 14 dias após a 1ª consulta, sem intercorrências indicando sucesso terapêutico. No retorno, terceira semana após o procedimento, apresentou alopecia setorial em região occipitoparietal direita. Não havia manchas em região, bem como outros sintomas associados. Foi realizado como tratamento o uso de Minoxidil tópico e Cilostazol via oral. Após o tratamento houve retorno do crescimento espontâneo em cerca de 2 meses. Considerações finais: a embolização com onyx® mostrou-se uma valiosa opção terapêutica com uma maior conservação das estruturas nobres em malformações arteriovenosas, com baixa taxa de complicações no médio e longo prazo.

Objective: to report a case of temporary alopecia after endovascular treatment with fluoroscopy exposure due to an arteriovenous malformation on the face. Case detail: male, 34 years old, complaining of a lesion on the nasal wing, upper lip and side of the face (right). The patient brought an angioresonance exam showing an arteriovenous malformation in the face with nutrition through the facial artery and drainage through the mandibular vein. As a treatment, a diagnostic arteriography was chosen for a better assessment of the vascularity of the arteriovenous malformation followed by embolization with onyx® (mixture of ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer), which provides the necessary contrast for visualization of the mixture under fluoroscopy. The procedure was performed 14 days after the 1st consultation, with no intercurrences indicating therapeutic success. On return, third week after the procedure, he presented sectoral alopecia in the right occipitoparietal region. There were no stains in the region, as well as other associated symptoms. The use of topical Minoxidil and oral Cilostazol was carried out as treatment. After treatment there was a return of spontaneous growth in about 2 months. Final considerations: embolization with onyx® proved to be a valuable therapeutic option with greater conservation of noble structures in arteriovenous malformations, with a low rate of complications in the medium and long term.

Objetivo: reportar un caso de alopecia transitoria posterior a tratamiento endovascular con exposición radioscópica debido a una malformación arteriovenosa en la cara. Detalle del caso: varón, 34 años, que se queja de una lesión en el ala nasal, labio superior y lado de la cara (derecha). El paciente trajo un examen de angiorresonancia que mostró una malformación arteriovenosa en la cara con nutrición a través de la arteria facial y drenaje a través de la vena mandibular. Como tratamiento se optó por una arteriografía diagnóstica para una mejor valoración de la vascularización de la malformación arteriovenosa seguida de embolización con onyx® (mezcla de copolímero de etileno alcohol vinílico), que proporciona el contraste necesario para la visualización de la mezcla bajo fluoroscopia. El procedimiento se realizó 14 días después de la 1.ª consulta, sin intercurrencias que indicaran éxito terapéutico. A su regreso, a la tercera semana del procedimiento, presenta alopecia sectorial en región occipitoparietal derecha. No había manchas en la región, así como otros síntomas asociados. Como tratamiento se realizó el uso de Minoxidil tópico y Cilostazol oral. Después del tratamiento hubo un retorno del crecimiento espontáneo en aproximadamente 2 meses. Consideraciones finales: la embolización con onyx® demostró ser una valiosa opción terapéutica con mayor conservación de las estructuras nobles en las malformaciones arteriovenosas, con una baja tasa de complicaciones a medio y largo plazo.

Pessoas trans, travestis e direitos transumanos: o caso da liberdade morfológica / Transgender people, transvestites, and transhuman rights: The case of morphological freedom

RESUMO Neste ensaio, aborda-se a interface entre gênero e direito por meio do recorte da inclusão social de pessoas trans e travestis e do caso da liberdade morfológica. Os objetivos são: i) apresentar um mapa conceitual e das lutas que configuram a questão trans no Brasil; ii) destacar a importância de propostas mais inclusivas de direitos, enfatizando a Perspectiva dos Funcionamentos (PdF); iii) inserir o debate em um campo de reflexão emergente, fomentando o interesse pelos estudos transumanistas, enfatizando a liberdade morfológica como um direito transumano. Após a apresentação de algumas das principais nuances da questão trans no Brasil, defende-se a necessidade de que o rol dos chamados concernidos morais seja ampliado, oferecendo uma perspectiva normativa a mais inclusiva possível. Com base na adoção da noção de sistemas funcionais, chama-se a atenção para o ganho de substituir a noção de direitos humanos pela de direitos básicos, apresentando a PdF. Finaliza-se apontando a concepção de direitos transumanos, que pode indicar uma ampliação tanto dos concernidos quanto das liberdades garantidas, destacando a liberdade morfológica, que parece fundamental para o exercício de uma incontornável dimensão da existência das pessoas trans e travestis.

ABSTRACT In this essay, we address the interface between gender and law through the social inclusion of transgender and transvestite people and the case of morphological freedom. Our objectives are: i) to present a conceptual map and the struggles that configure the trans issue in the Functionings Approach (PdF); iii) to include the debate in an emerging field of reflection, fostering interest in transhumanist studies, emphasizing morphological freedom as a transhuman right. After presenting some of the main nuances of the trans issue in Brazil, we advocate expanding the list of the so-called moral concernants, offering a more inclusive normative perspective as possible. Based on the adoption of functional systems, we draw attention to the gain of replacing the notion of human rights with that of fundamental rights, presenting the PdF. We conclude by presenting the concept of transhuman rights, which may indicate an expansion of those concerned and the freedoms guaranteed, highlighting morphological freedom, which seems fundamental to us for the exercise of an unavoidable dimension of the existence of transgender and transvestite people.

Estudo descritivo sobre a adesão às medidas individuais de prevenção para enfrentamento à pandemia de Covid-19 no Brasil / Descriptive study on adherence to individual prevention measures to fight the Covid-19 Pandemic In Brazil

Introdução: A pandemia de Covid-19 representa um desafio mundial tratando-se de contenção da transmissão através de medidas preventivas individuais de saúde. Assim, é de extrema importância analisar o panorama de adesão a tais medidas visando-se reduzir a progressão do número de mortos e infectados pelo novo coronavírus. Objetivos: Analisar os níveis de aderência às medidas individuais de saúde no Brasil, durante 6 meses após sua publicitação em 16 de março de 2020, e correlacionar os dados obtidos com o comportamento individual e seu impacto na sociedade. Material e Métodos: Utilizando-se de um estudo descritivo seccional e um breve questionário, veiculado digitalmente, foi avaliado como a população brasileira portou-se nos meses iniciais de pandemia em questão diante das recomendações individuais implantadas. Resultados: Verificou-se que 90,0% dos entrevistados convivem com outras pessoas em ambiente domiciliar, 54,5% relataram não usar máscara facial ao sair de casa e 29,4% dos voluntários informaram ter alguma doença adicional que é fator de risco para o novo coronavírus. Discussão: Observou-se um ambiente domiciliar coletivo e, possivelmente, potencializador da transmissão do SARS-CoV-2. Fatores como perda habitual da rotina e saúde física, econômica e mental tornam-se empecilhos em relação à adesão às medidas individuais de saúde. Constatou-se ainda baixa adoção ao uso de máscara facial pelos brasileiros. Conclusão: O estudo constatou que fatores geográficos, sociais, econômicos, psicológicos, físicos e nutricionais estão relacionados a adesão ou não às medidas individuais de saúde a longo prazo, apesar de bons indicadores, de uma forma geral, durante os 6 primeir os meses no Brasil.

Prevalência de radiolucência justa-apical e sua relação com terceiros molares inferiores em radiografias panorâmicas / Prevalence of juxta-apical radiolucency and association/relations with the lower third molar in panoramic radiography

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência da radiolucência justa-apical (RJA) e sua relação com os terceiros molares inferiores, em 1054 radiografias panorâmicas. Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por radiografias panorâmicas digitais de indivíduos maiores de 18 anos, com pelo menos um terceiro molar inferior. As imagens foram analisadas para a presença de RJA em relação à corticalização, localização, relação com o canal mandibular, angulação e profundidade de impactação do terceiro molar. Os dados foram analisados através de estatística descritiva e pelo teste Qui-quadrado, sendo que valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados como significativos. Resultados:Foi encontrada uma prevalência de 2,75% de RJA, sendo predominante no sexo feminino (p = 0,01). A RJA foi visualizada em maior número corticalizada (58,63%), lateroapical (48,27%), em dentes parcialmente intraósseo (68,97%) e mesioangulados (55,17%). Em relação ao canal mandibular, houve maior prevalência na posição sobreposta ao canal mandibular (65,52%). Conclusão: A prevalência de RJA foi de 2,75% do total de 1054 radiografias panorâmicas avaliadas. Em relação ao canal mandibular, apresentou maior prevalência sobreposto. Além disso, a maior parte das RJA se apresentaram corticalizadas, em posição lateroapical, associada a dentes em posição mesioangular. Descritores: Radiografia panorâmica. Dente serotino. Nervo mandibular.Prevalência de radiolucência justa-apical e sua relação com terceiros molares inferiores em radiografias panorâmicas

Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of juxta-apical radiolucency (JAR) and its relationship with the lower third molars and adjacent structures, in 1,054 panoramic radiographs. Methods: The sample consisted of digital panoramic radiographs of individuals over 18 years of age, with at least one lower third molar. The images were analyzed for the presence of JAR in relation to corticalization, location, impaction depth, relationship with the mandibular canal, angulation, and impaction of the third molar. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test, and values of p < 0.05 were considered significant.Results: A prevalence of 2.75% of JAR was found, with a statistical difference between JAR and gender (p = 0.01), which proved to be predominant in females. The JAR was seen in greater numbers as corticalized (58.63%), lateroapical (48.27%), and mesioangulated (55.17%), as well as in erupted teeth (31.03%). In relation to the mandibular canal, it presented a higher prevalence when superimposed upon the mandibular canal (65.52%). Conclusions:The prevalence of RJA was 2.75% of the 1,054 evaluated panoramic radiographs. In relation to the mandibular canal, it presented a higher prevalence of superimposition. In addition, most of the RJA were corticalized, in a lateroapical position, associated with teeth in a mesioangular position. Uniterms: Panoramic radiography. Third molar. Mandibular nerve.

Amplifications of AURKA and AURKB in a Burkitt lymphoma immunodeficiency-associated type: a case report

ABSTRACT In equatorial Brazil, the association of Burkitt lymphoma and Epstein-Barr virus manifests at high rates. Here, we report, for the first time, amplifications of aurora kinase genes (AURKA/B) in a patient with a history of periodontal abscess and the presence of a remaining nodule, diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma and Epstein-Barr virus, and /HIV positive. The patient was a 38-year-old man who presented with a 2-week-old severe jaw pain and a 3-day-old severe bilateral headache. He had a history of human papilloma virus. Interphase FISH analysis showed AURKA and AURKB amplification. The patient's condition worsened, progressing to death a month after the initial care. Changes in the MYCC and AURKA pathways are directly associated with genomic instability. Thus, MYCC rearrangements and higher expression of AURKA/B may be associated with therapy resistance, highlighting the importance of AURKA/B evaluation in Burkitt lymphoma.

Childcare and follow-up of children exposed to syphilis or notified with congenital syphilis / Puericultura y seguimiento de niños expuestos a sífilis o notificados con sífilis congênita / Puericultura e seguimento de crianças expostas à sífilis ou notificadas com a sífilis congênita

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze childcare and follow-up of children exposed to or notified with congenital syphilis in Primary Health Care. Method: a descriptive study carried out in Fortaleza, Ceará, whose population was made up of children exposed to syphilis or notified with congenital syphilis in 2017 and 2018. The data were collected from notification forms and the children's medical records. Sociodemographic variables of the mother and childcare were analyzed. For this purpose, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 22, was used. Results: a total of 715 children took part in the study. The mothers' age varied from 14 to 42 years old, 436 (61%) had Complete Elementary School, 276 (38.6%) had a steady or occasional partner, 97 (13.6%) had a paid job and 23 (3.2%) used drugs. A total of 712 (99.6%) attended prenatal care and 134 (18.7%) were treated for syphilis. In relation to the children, 50 (7.0%) attended only one childcare consultation and a considerable loss was observed in follow-up over the months. Ten (1.4%) completed all eight consultations recommended by the Ministry of Health. No child underwent the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory at one, three, six, 12 and 18 months. Conclusion: childcare and follow-up of children exposed to syphilis or notified with congenital syphilis do not meet the guidelines recommended by the Ministry of Health. There is a significant follow-up loss among the children.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la puericultura y el seguimiento de niños expuestos a sífilis o notificados con sífilis congénita en Atención Primaria de la Salud. Método: estudio descriptivo realizado en Fortaleza, Ceará, cuya población estuvo conformada por niños expuestos a sífilis o notificados con sífilis congénita en 2017 y 2018. Los datos se recolectaron de los formularios de notificación y de las historias clínicas de los niños. Se analizaron variables sociodemográficas de las madres y de la puericultura de los niños. Para tal fin se utilizó el Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), versión 22. Resultados: un total de 15 niños participaron en el estudio. La edad de las madres varió entre 14 y 42 años, 436 (61%) tenían escuela primaria completa como nivel de estudio máximo, 276 (38,6%) tenían pareja estable o eventual, 97 (13,6%) poseían alguna actividad remunerada y 23 (3,2%) consumían drogas. Un total de 712 (99,6%) acudió a las consultas prenatales y 134 (18,7%) recibieron tratamiento para la sífilis. En relación con los niños, 50 (7,0%) solo acudieron a una consulta de puericultura y se observó una considerable pérdida en el seguimiento a lo largo de los meses. Diez (1,4%) completaron las ocho consultas recomendadas por el Ministerio de Salud y ningún niño se sometió al Venereal Disease Research Laboratory de uno, tres, seis, 12 y 18 meses. Conclusión: la puericultura y el seguimiento de niños expuestos a sífilis o notificados con sífilis congénita no cumplen con las directrices recomendadas por el Ministerio de Salud; además, se registra una importante pérdida en seguimiento de los niños.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a puericultura e o seguimento de crianças expostas ou notificadas com sífilis congênita na atenção primária em saúde. Método: estudo descritivo realizado em Fortaleza, Ceará cuja população foi composta por crianças expostas à sífilis ou notificadas com a sífilis congênita nos anos de 2017 e 2018. Os dados foram coletados nas fichas de notificação e nos prontuários das crianças. Foram analisadas variáveis sociodemográficas da mãe e da puericultura da criança. Para isso, utilizou-se o programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), versão 22. Resultados: participaram do estudo 715 crianças. A idade das mães variou de 14 a 42 anos, tinham até o ensino fundamental completo 436 (61%), parceiro fixo ou eventual 276 (38,6%), atividade remunerada 97 (13,6%) e fazia uso de drogas 23 (3,2%). Frequentaram o pré-natal 712 (99,6%) e foram tratadas para sífilis, 134 (18,7%). Em relação às crianças, 50 (7,0%) receberam somente uma consulta de puericultura e observa-se perda considerável no seguimento ao longo dos meses. Dez (1,4%) completaram o quantitativo de oito consultas recomendado pelo Ministério da Saúde. Nenhuma criança fez o Venereal Disease Research Laboratory de um, três, seis, 12 e 18 meses. Conclusão: a puericultura e o seguimento de crianças expostas à sífilis ou notificadas com a sífilis congênita não atendem às diretrizes recomendadas pelo Ministério da Saúde. Há importante perda de seguimento das crianças.

Antifungal effect of Arnica montana and Hamamelis virginiana against Candida species

Objetivo ­ Avaliar a atividade antifúngica dos extratos glicólicos de Arnica montana e Hamamelis virginiana contra cepas de Candida spp. A candidíase é uma infecção fúngica comum, portanto, a pesquisa de novos agentes antifúngicos tem sido um alvo interessante. Várias plantas apresentaram atividades biológicas e, portanto, podem ser fontes promissoras de produtos naturais com atividades an-tifúngicas. Métodos ­ As atividades antifúngicas dos extratos glicólicos foram avaliadas por meio da determinação da concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de acordo com o protocolo M27-S3 do Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (2008). Resultados ­ O ex-trato glicólico de A. montana apresentou a atividade antifúngica mais forte contra C. tropicalis, com concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de 10% v/v e concentração fungicida mínima (MFC) de 80% v/v, seguido por C. krusei e C. glabrata, com valores de MIC e MFC de 20% v/v. Além disso, avaliamos a toxicidade dos dois extratos glicólicos no modelo Galleria mellonella usando as curvas de sobre-vivência de larvas tratadas com os extratos. Nossos resultados demonstraram que os extratos glicólicos de A. montana e H. virginiana não exibiram toxicidade contra larvas de G. mellonella e demonstraram atividade antifúngica contra espécies de Candida spp. Con-clusão ­ Assim, ambos os extratos são candidatos promissores para o desenvolvimento de novos agentes antifúngicos.

Objective ­ To evaluate the antifungal activity of Arnica montana and Hamamelis virginiana glycolic extracts against Candida strains. Methods ­ The antifungal activities of glycolic extracts were investigated by determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) according to protocol M27-S3 of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (2008). Results ­ A. montana glycolic extract showed the strongest antifungal activity against C. tropicalis, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 10% v/v and a minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 80% v/v, then C. krusei and C. glabrata, with MIC and MFC values of 20% v/v. H. virginiana glycolic extract ex-hibited stronger activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis, with MIC and MFC values of 10% v/v, than against C. glabrata, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis, with MIC and MFC values of 20% v/v. Moreover, we evaluated the toxicity of the two glycolic extracts in the Galleria mellonella model using the survival curves of larvae treated with the two extracts. Our results demonstrated that the glycolic extracts of A. montana and H. virginiana exhibited no toxicity against G. mellonella larvae and demonstrated antifungal activity against Candida spe-cies. Conclusion ­ Thus, both extracts are promising candidates for the development of novel antifungal agents.