Violência e saúde na vida de pessoas LGBTI / Violence and health in the lives of LGBTI people

Apresenta conceitos introdutórios, analisa a relação entre violência e saúde na vida de pessoas LGBTI fazendo um panorama dessa questão no Brasil. Analisa o enfrentamento da violência e a promoção da saúde por meio das políticas públicas desenvolvidas no Brasil

Acaricidal activity of essential oils of Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Eremanthus erythropappus, major compounds and cinnamyl acetate in Rhipicephalus microplus / Atividade acaricida dos óleos essenciais de Cinnamomum zeylanicum e Eremanthus erythropappus, compostos majoritários e acetato de cinamila sobre Rhipicephalus microplus

Abstract This study aimed to chemically characterize the essential oils (EOs) of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon) and Eremanthus erythropappus (candeia) and evaluate their acaricidal activity, together with that of their major compounds and cinnamyl acetate derivative, against Rhipicephalus microplus. Essential oil compounds were identified through gas chromatography. The larval packet test (LPT) at concentrations ranging from 0.31 to 10.0 mg/mL and the adult immersion test (AIT) at concentrations between 2.5 and 60.0 mg/mL were performed. (E)-cinnamaldehyde and α-bisabolol were the major compounds in cinnamon (86.93%) and candeia (78.41%) EOs, respectively. In the LPT, the EOs of cinnamon and candeia and the compounds (E)-cinnamaldehyde, α-bisabolol and cinnamyl acetate resulted in 100% mortality at concentrations of 2.5, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 10.0 mg/mL respectively. In the AIT, percentage control values > 95% were observed for cinnamon and candeia EOs, (E)-cinnamaldehyde and α-bisabolol at the concentrations of 5.0, 60.0, 20.0, and 20.0 mg/mL, respectively, whereas cinnamyl acetate showed low activity. We conclude that EOs and their compounds showed high acaricidal activity, whereas the acetylated derivative of (E)-cinnamaldehyde presented less acaricidal activity on R. microplus engorged females.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar quimicamente os óleos essenciais (OE) de Cinnamomum zeylanicum (canela) e Eremanthus erythropappus (candeia) e avaliar sua atividade acaricida, juntamente com a de seus principais compostos e do derivado de acetato de cinamila, sobre Rhipicephalus microplus. Os compostos do óleo essencial foram identificados por cromatografia gasosa. Foram realizados o Teste de Pacote de Larvas (TPL), em concentrações variando de 0,31 a 10,0 mg/mL, e o Teste de Imersão de Adultos (TIA), em concentrações entre 2,5 e 60,0 mg/mL. (E)-cinnamaldeído e α-bisabolol foram os principais compostos nos OE da canela (86,93%) e da candeia (78,41%), respectivamente. No TPL, os OEs de canela e candeia, e os compostos (E)-cinnamaldeído, α-bisabolol e acetato de cinamila resultaram em 100% de mortalidade nas concentrações de 2,5, 2,5, 5,0, 10,0 e 10,0 mg/mL, respectivamente. No TIA, valores percentuais de controle >95% foram observados para OE de canela e candeia, (E)-cinnamaldeído e α-bisabolol nas concentrações de 5,0, 60,0, 20,0 e 20,0 mg/mL, respectivamente, enquanto o acetato de cinamila apresentou baixa atividade. Conclui-se que os OEs e seus compostos apresentaram alta atividade acaricida, enquanto o derivado acetilado do (E)-cinnamaldeído apresentou menor atividade acaricida em fêmeas ingurgitadas de R. microplus.

Women's obstetric history and midtrimester cervical length measurements by 2d/3d and doppler ultrasound / História obstétrica e medida do comprimento do colo uterino de mulheres no segundo trimestre gestacional por ultrassonografia bi/tridimensional e Doppler

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study was to compare the obstetric history and both two- and tri-dimensional ultrasound parameters according to different cervical lengths. Methods The present cross-sectional study analyzed 248 midtrimester pregnant women according to cervical length and compared the data with the obstetric history and 2D/3D ultrasound parameters. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to cervical length: The Short Cervix group for cervical lengths ≥ 15mm and< 25mm(n= 68), the Very Short Cervix group for cervical lengths< 15mm (n = 18) and the Control group, composed of 162 pregnant women with uterine cervical lengths ≥ 25mm. Results When analyzing the obstetric history of only non-nulliparous patients, a significant association between the presence of a short cervix in the current pregnancy and at least one previous preterm birth was reported (p = 0.021). Cervical length and volume were positively correlated (Pearson coefficient = 0.587, p < 0.0001). The flow index (FI) parameter of cervical vascularization was significantly different between the Control and Very Short Cervix groups. However, after linear regression, in the presence of volume information, we found no association between the groups and FI. Uterine artery Doppler was also not related to cervical shortening. Conclusion The present study showed a significant association between the presence of a short cervix in the current pregnancy and at least one previous preterm birth. None of the vascularization indexes correlate with cervical length as an independent parameter. Uterine artery Doppler findings do not correlate with cervical length.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar a história obstétrica e os parâmetros bi- e tridimensionais ultrassonográficos de acordo com os diferentes comprimentos cervicais. Métodos O presente estudo transversal analisou 248 gestantes no segundo trimestre de acordo com o comprimento cervical e comparou os dados com a história obstétrica e os parâmetros ultrassonográficos 2D/3D. As pacientes foram divididas em 3 grupos de acordo com o comprimento do colo uterino: grupo Colo Curto para comprimentos cervicais ≥ 15mm e < 25mm (n = 68), grupo Colo Muito Curto para comprimentos cervicais < 15mm (n = 18) e grupo Controle, composto por 162 gestantes com comprimento cervical uterino ≥ 25 mm. Resultados Ao analisar a história obstétrica apenas de pacientes não nulíparas, foi relatadauma associação significativa entre a presença de colo uterino curto na gravidez atual e pelo menos um episódio de parto prematuro anterior (p = 0,021). Comprimento e volume do colo uterino foram correlacionados positivamente (coeficiente de Pearson = 0,587, p < 0,0001). O parâmetro índice de fluxo (IF) da vascularização cervical foi significativamente diferente entre os grupos Controle e Colo Muito Curto. Entretanto, após regressão linear, na presença de informações de volume, não encontramos associação entre os grupos e o parâmetro IF. Também não foi encontrada relação entre o Doppler da artéria uterina e o encurtamento cervical. Conclusão O presente estudo mostrou uma associação significativa entre a presença de colo uterino curto na gravidez atual e pelo menos um episódio de parto prematuro anterior. Nenhum dos índices de vascularização se correlaciona com o comprimento cervical como parâmetro independente, assim como o Doppler da artéria uterina também não está relacionado ao comprimento do colo uterino.

Metáforas de um vírus: reflexões sobre a subjetivação pandêmica / Metáforas de un virus: reflexiones sobre la subjetivación pandémica / Metaphors of a virus: reflections on the pandemic subjectivation

Resumo O presente artigo visa explorar diferentes metáforas acionadas na primeira fase da pandemia do novo coronavírus no Brasil, inspirado na obra de Susan Sontag, A doença como metáfora. As metáforas são ferramentas centrais nos processos de subjetivação da pandemia, do vírus que a causa e da doença que ela materializa. O material empírico que sustenta nossas reflexões vem de encontros semanais de um grupo terapêutico que passamos a conduzir on-line com as medidas de isolamento social no país, e de observação participante nas redes sociais da internet. Com base nisso, pensamos em quatro chaves de metáforas: o (in)visível, o mascarado, o divino e o isolado. A partir dessas categorias, é possível refletir sobre questões como sofrimento ético-político, resistência subjetiva, luto, negação, melancolia e megalomania, presentes nos modos de subjetivação da pandemia.

Resumen Este artículo tiene como objetivo explorar diferentes metáforas desencadenadas en la primera fase de la nueva pandemia de Coronavirus en Brasil, inspirado en el trabajo de Susan Sontag, "La enfermedad como metáfora". Las metáforas son herramientas centrales en los procesos de subjetivación de la pandemia, el virus que la causa y la enfermedad que le materializa. El material empírico que sustenta nuestras reflexiones proviene de reuniones semanales de un grupo terapéutico que comenzamos a realizar en línea con las medidas de aislamiento social en el país, y de la observación participante en las redes sociales de internet. Basado en esto, pensamos en cuatro claves metáforas: lo (no) visible, lo enmascarado, lo divino y lo aislado. A partir de estas categorías, es posible reflexionar sobre cuestiones como el sufrimiento ético-político, la resistencia subjetiva, el luto, la negación, la melancolía y la megalomanía, presentes en los modos de subjetivación de la pandemia.

Abstract This article aims to explore different metaphors triggered in the first phase of the pandemic of the new coronavirus in Brazil, inspired by Susan Sontag's work, "Illness as metaphor". Metaphors are central tools in the processes of subjectification of the pandemic, the virus that causes it and the disease that it materializes. The empirical material that supports our reflections comes from weekly meetings of a therapeutic group that we started to conduct online due to the measures of social isolation in the country, and from participant observation in the internet social media. Based on this, we propose four metaphor keys: the (in)visible, the masked, the divine and the isolated. From these categories, it is possible to reflect on issues present in the pandemic's subjectivation modes such as ethical-political suffering, subjective resistance, mourning, denial, melancholy, and megalomania.

Emergency cerclage: gestational and neonatal outcomes

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: The gestational and neonatal outcomes of women with early cervical dilatation undergoing emergency cerclage were evaluated and compared with women treated with expectant management and bed rest. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of pregnant women admitted between 2001 and 2017 with a diagnosis of early cervical dilatation and/or bulging membranes. Patients with a singleton pregnancy of a fetus without malformations, between 16 and 25 weeks and 6 days, with cervical dilatation of 1 to 3 cm were included; patients who delivered or miscarried within 2 days after admission were excluded. RESULTS: The study enrolled 30 patients: 19 in the cerclage group and 11 in the rest group. There was a significant difference, with the cerclage group showing better results concerning gestational age at delivery (28.7 vs. 23.3 weeks; p=0.031) and latency between hospital admission and delivery (48.6 vs. 16 days; p=0.016). The fetal death rate was lower in the cerclage group (5.3% vs. 54.5%, p=0.004). Considering gestational age at delivery of live newborns, no difference was observed between the cerclage and rest groups (29.13 vs. 27.4 weeks; p=0.857). CONCLUSIONS: Emergency cerclage was associated with longer latency, a significant impact on gestational age at delivery and reduction in the fetal death rate.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Os resultados gestacionais e neonatais de mulheres com cervicodilatação precoce submetidas à cerclagem de emergência foram avaliados e comparados com mulheres tratadas com manejo expectante com repouso no leito. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva de gestantes admitidas entre 2001 e 2017 com diagnóstico de cervicodilatação precoce e/ou membranas protrusas. Foram incluídas pacientes com gestação única de feto sem malformações, entre 16 semanas e 25 semanas e 6 dias, com dilatação cervical de 1 a 3 cm; as pacientes que tiveram parto ou aborto dentro de 2 dias após admissão foram excluídas. RESULTADOS: O estudo envolveu 30 pacientes: 19 no grupo cerclagem e 11 no grupo repouso. Houve diferença significativa, com o grupo cerclagem apresentando melhores resultados em relação à idade gestacional no parto (28,7 vs. 23,3 semanas; p=0,031) e à latência entre a admissão hospitalar e o parto (48,6 vs. 16 dias; p=0,016). A taxa de mortalidade fetal foi menor no grupo cerclagem (5,3% vs. 54,5%, p=0,004). Considerando a idade gestacional no nascimento dos recém-nascidos vivos, não houve diferença entre os grupos cerclagem e expectante (29,13 vs. 27,4 semanas; p=0,857). CONCLUSÕES: A cerclagem de emergência foi associada a maior período de latência com impacto significativo na idade gestacional do parto e à redução da taxa de mortalidade fetal.

The role of three-dimensional ultrasound in pregnancies submitted to cerclage

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Cervical cerclage is the standard treatment for cervical incompetence (CI); however, there is still a high risk of preterm birth for women who undergo this treatment. The aim of this study was to longitudinally evaluate findings on two-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography (2DTVUS) and three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography (3DTVUS) that could be related to gestational age at birth. METHODS: A total of 68 pregnant women who were treated with cerclage were evaluated by 2DTVUS and 3DTVUS in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Log-rank tests and Cox regression analyses were used to identify significant findings related to gestational age at delivery. RESULTS: A cervical length lower than 281 mm (p= 0.0083), a proximal cervical length lower than 10 mm (p= 0.0151), a cervical volume lower than 18.17 cm3 (p= 0.0152), a vascularization index (VI) under 2.153 (p= 0.0044), and a vascularization-flow index (VFI) under 0.961 (p= 0.0059) in the second trimester were all related to earlier delivery. In the third trimester, a cervical length lower than 20.4 mm (p= 0.0009), a VI over 0.54 (p= 0.0327) and a VFI over 2.275 (p= 0.0479) were all related to earlier delivery. Cervical funnelling in the second and third trimesters and proximal cervical length in the third trimester were not related to gestational age at birth. The COX regression analyses showed that cervical volume in the second trimester; FI and VFI in the third trimester were significantly associated with gestational age at birth. CONCLUSION: In women treated with history-indicated cerclage or ultrasound-indicated cerclage, 2nd trimester cervical volume and 3rd trimester FI and VFI are independent significant sonographic findings associated with time to delivery.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Determinar quais características ultrassonográficas obtidas por meio da ultrassonografia transvaginal bidimensional (USG TV 2D) e tridimensional (USG TV 3D) associam-se ao parto prematuro em gestantes submetidas à cerclagem profilática e terapêutica. MÉTODOS: Sessenta e seis gestantes com feto único submetidas à cerclagem profilática ou terapêutica e acompanhadas no ambulatório de Aborto Habitual da Clínica Obstétrica do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da USP, entre 10 de juho de 2012 e 30 de outubro de 2015, foram avaliadas longitudinalmente, por meio das US TV 2D e US TV 3D associadas ao power Doppler para avaliação do VI, FI e VFI, nos três trimestres da gestação. Os resultados foram avaliados em relação ao parto em idade gestacional (IG) menor que 34 semanas e maior ou igual a 34 semanas, assim como em relação à idade do parto como variável contínua. RESULTADOS: O comprimento do colo uterino (CC) e a distância do ponto de cerclagem ao orifício interno do colo uterino (POI) diminuíram de forma significativa entre o segundo e terceiro trimestres da gestação. O CC, o POI e o afunilamento cervical no terceiro trimestre da gestação tiveram relação com a ocorrência de parto em IG<34 semanas. Na análise de regressão de COX, em que a variável de interesse foi o tempo até o parto, o volume do colo uterino no segundo trimestre e o FI e VFI no terceiro trimestre foram significativos. CONCLUSÃO: Foi possível identificar parâmetros ultrassonográficos do colo uterino bi e tridimensionais que se correlacionam com a idade gestacional do parto.

Type II and III selective fetal growth restriction: perinatal outcomes of expectant management and laser ablation of placental vessels

OBJECTIVES: To describe the perinatal outcomes of type II and III selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) in monochorionic-diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies treated with expectant management or laser ablation of placental vessels (LAPV). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of cases of sFGR that received expectant management (type II, n=6; type III, n=22) or LAPV (type II, n=30; type III, n=9). The main outcomes were gestational age at delivery and survival rate. RESULTS: The smaller fetus presented an absent/reversed "a" wave in the ductus venosus (arAWDV) in all LAPV cases, while none of the expectant management cases presented arAWDV. The median gestational age at delivery was within the 32nd week for expectant management (type II and III) and for type II LAPV, and the 30th week for type III LAPV. The rate of at least one twin alive at hospital discharge was 83.3% and 90.9% for expectant management type II and III, respectively, and 90% and 77.8% for LAPV type II and III, respectively. CONCLUSION: LAPV in type II and III sFGR twins with arAWDV in the smaller fetus seems to yield outcomes similar to those of less severe cases that received expectant management.

Characterization of a Urochloa humidicola methanol extract as a phytogenic additive for ruminants / Caracterização do extrato metanólico de Urochloa humidicola como aditivo fitogênico para ruminantes

This survey aimed to characterize a Urochloa humidicola methanol extract regarding the presence of secondary metabolites classes and to determine its bromatological composition. U. humidicola samples were dried under shade, milled on a 2-mm sieve by a Willey mill. The solution obtained was filtered using filter paper and concentrated in a rotary evaporator under reduced pressure; the concentrated residue was then placed in an open vessel to complete solvent removal using continuous air flow dryers. Phytochemical prospection tests and bromatological composition analyses were performed on the dry methanol extract, and the results were compared to in natura U. humidicola. The methanol extract had 10.2% CP and 35% EE and in natura U. humidicola had 5.17% CP and 1.57% EE, with a difference (P < 0.05) of 5% by Fisher's test. In natura U. humidicola had 75.59% NDF, 40.77% ADF, 38.82% HEM, 29.93% CEL, and 7.19% LIG. Methanol extraction by cold maceration reduced the LIG (0.17%) and CEL (0.21%) contents as only soluble constituents were extracted. A phytochemical assay was positive for the presence of saponins, tannins, alkaloids, non-protein amino acids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, steroids, tripernoids, catechins, and saccharides and was negative for the presence of flavonoids and purines. The U. humidicola methanol extract possesses traits that allow its use as a phytogenic and natural additive.

Objetivou-se neste estudo caracterizar o extrato metanólico de Urochloa humidicola, quanto à presença de classes de metabólitos secundários presentes bem como determinar a sua composição bromatológica. Para isto, amostras da parte aérea de U. humidicola foram secas à sombra, moídas em moinho tipo Willey em partículas de 2 mm, submetidas à extração por maceração a frio com metanol, a solução obtida foi concentrada em rotaevaporador e posto para termina a secagem sob fluxo de ar contínuo. O extrato metanólico seco foi submetido aos testes de prospecção fitoquímica e análises de composição bromatológica comparado com a U. humidicola in natura. O extrato apresentou 10,2% de PB e 35% de EE e U. humidicola in natura apresentou 5,17 % de PB e 1,57% de EE, diferindo entre si (P<0,05) pelo teste de Fisher a 5% de significância. A U. humidicola in natura apresentou teores de FDN (75,59%), FDA (40,77%), hemicelulose (38,82%), celulose (29,93%) e lignina (7,19%). O método de extração por maceração a frio com metanol contribuiu para a diminuição dos teores de lignina (0,17%) e celulose (0,21%), por extrair somente os constituintes solúveis. O ensaio fitoquímico apresentou presença positiva para saponina, tanino, alcaloides, aminoácidos não proteicos, carboidratos, glicosídeos cardioativos, esteroides e tripernoides, catequinas e sacarídeos, e negativa para a presença de flavonoides e purinas. O extrato metanólico de Urochloa humidicola apresenta características que permitem seu uso como aditivo natural ou fitogênico.

Validation of QF-PCR for prenatal diagnoses in a Brazilian population

OBJECTIVES: Quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) is a rapid and reliable method for screening aneuploidies, but in Brazil, it is not used in public services. We investigated the accuracy of QF-PCR for the prenatal recognition of common aneuploidies and compared these results with cytogenetic results in our laboratory. METHOD: A ChromoQuant QF-PCR kit containing 24 primer pairs targeting loci on chromosomes 21, 13, 18, X and Y was employed to identify aneuploidies of the referred chromosomes. RESULTS: A total of 162 amniotic fluid samples analyzed using multiplex QF-PCR were compared with karyotyping analysis. The QF-PCR results were consistent with the results of cytogenetic analysis in 95.4% of all samples. CONCLUSION: QF-PCR was demonstrated to be efficient and reliable for prenatal aneuploidy screening. This study suggests that QF-PCR can be used as a rapid diagnostic method. However, rearrangements and some mosaic samples cannot be detected with this test; thus, those exceptions must undergo cytogenetic analysis.

Special metabolites isolated from Urochloa humidicola (Poaceae)

ABSTRACT This study aims to identify special metabolites in polar extracts from Urochloa humidicola (synonym Brachiaria humidicola) that have allelopathic effects and induce secondary photosensitization in ruminants. The compounds were isolated and identified via chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. The compounds 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoic acid, trans-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, and p-hydroxy-benzoic acid; the flavonols isorhamnetin-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside and methyl quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucuronate; and kaempferitrin, quercetin-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside, and tricin were identified in the extract from the leaves of Urochloa humidicola. Two furostanic saponins, namely, dioscin and 3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-4)-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-2)]-β-d-glucopyranosyl-penogenin, as well as catechin-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside were identified in the methanolic extract obtained from the roots of this plant. This species features a range of metabolites that may be toxic for animals if used in food and may interfere with the growth medium, thereby inhibiting the development of other species.

Placental weight and birth weight to placental weight ratio in monochorionic and dichorionic growth-restricted and non-growth-restricted twins

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to compare the placental weight and birth weight/placental weight ratio for intrauterine growth-restricted and non-intrauterine growth-restricted monochorionic and dichorionic twins. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of placentas from twin pregnancies. Placental weight and the birth weight/placental weight ratio were compared in intrauterine growth-restricted and non-intrauterine growth-restricted monochorionic and dichorionic twins. The association between cord insertion type and placental lesions in intrauterine growth-restricted and non-intrauterine growth-restricted monochorionic and dichorionic twins was also investigated. RESULTS: A total of 105 monochorionic (intrauterine growth restriction=40; non-intrauterine growth restriction=65) and 219 dichorionic (intrauterine growth restriction=57; non-intrauterine growth restriction=162) placentas were analyzed. A significantly lower placental weight was observed in intrauterine growth-restricted monochorionic (p=0.022) and dichorionic (p<0.001) twins compared to non-intrauterine growth-restricted twins. There was no difference in the birth weight/placental weight ratio between the intrauterine growth restriction and non-intrauterine growth restriction groups for either monochorionic (p=0.36) or dichorionic (p=0.68) twins. Placental weight and the birth weight/placental weight ratio were not associated with cord insertion type or with placental lesions. CONCLUSION: Low placental weight, and consequently reduced functional mass, appears to be involved in fetal growth restriction in monochorionic and dichorionic twins. The mechanism by which low placental weight influences the birth weight/placental weight ratio in intrauterine growth-restricted monochorionic and dichorionic twins needs to be determined in larger prospective studies.

Lethal and sublethal effects of essential oil of Lippia sidoides (Verbenaceae) and monoterpenes on Chagas´ disease vector Rhodnius prolixus

The aim of this study was to identify the composition of the essential oil from leaves of Lippia sidoides (EOLS), a typical shrub commonly found in the dry northeast of Brazil, popularly known as “alecrim-pimenta”. Additionally, we investigated the nymphicidal, ovicidal, phagoinhibitory and excretion effects of EOLS, its major constituent thymol and its isomer carvacrol, on fourth instar nymphs and eggs of Rhodnius prolixus, the Chagas’ disease vector. The nymphicidal and ovicidal activity of thymol, carvacrol, and EOLS was assessed by tests using impregnated Petri dishes. The lethal concentration values (LC50) for EOLS, carvacrol, and thymol were 54.48, 32.98, and 9.38 mg/cm2, respectively. The ovicidal test showed that both carvacrol and thymol (50 mg/cm2) inhibited hatching (50% and 23.3%, respectively), while treatments with 10 mg/cm2 or 50 mg/cm2 EOLS did not affect the hatching rate at all (80% and 90%, respectively). We observed an anti-feeding effect in insects fed with blood containing natural products at the higher concentrations (100 µg/mL). Finally, excretion rate was affected by EOLS and carvacrol, but not by thymol. These findings offer novel insights into basic physiological processes that make the tested natural compounds interesting candidates for new types of insecticides.

Effects of Acmella oleracea methanolic extract and fractions on the tyrosinase enzyme

Abstract The aim of the current study is to evaluate the effect of Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen, Asteraceae, methanolic extract, hexane (84.28% spilanthol) and dichloromethane (approximately 100% spilanthol) fractions on the tyrosinase enzyme. The dehydrated jambu extract was obtained through maceration using methanol. The extract residue was solubilized in MeOH/H2O (8:2) and subjected to liq.–liq. partition in organic solvents. Both the extraction and the partition procedures were conducted with three replicates. The analyses were performed using GC–MS, 1H and 13C NMR. The hexane fraction provided samples containing 84.28, 82.91 and 62.83% spilanthol in repetitions 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The dichloromethane fraction showed 88.55% spilanthol in repetition 1, and approximately 100% spilanthol in repetitions 2 and 3. The jambu extract as well as the hexane fraction (84.28% spilanthol) were able to activate the oxidizing activity of the tyrosinase enzyme for L-DOPA. The dichloromethane fraction (approximately 100% spilanthol) showed stronger inhibition effect on the tyrosinase enzyme in the first 10 min. The results raise the interest in study in spilanthol formulations for topical use, since it may prevent and/or slow skin hyperpigmentation or depigmentation processes. Furthermore, spilanthol may be used to control the enzymatic browning in fruits and vegetables.

Intrauterine death in singleton pregnancies with trisomy 21, 18, 13 and monosomy X / Óbito fetal em gestações únicas com diagnóstico de trissomias dos cromossomos 21, 18, 13 e monossomia do X

Summary A retrospective study from November 2004 to May 2012, conducted at the Obstetric Clinic of Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), which included 92 singleton pregnancies with prenatal diagnosis of trisomy of chromosome 21 (T21), 18, 13 (T13/18) and monosomy X (45X), with diagnosis performed until the 26th week of pregnancy. The aim of the study was to describe the frequency and to investigate predictors of spontaneous fetal death (FD). Diagnosis (T21, n=36; T13/18, n=25; 45X, n=31) was made at a mean gestational age of 18.3±3.7 weeks, through chorionic villus biopsy (n=22,24%), amniocentesis (n=66, 72%) and cordocentesis (n=4, 4%). Major malformations were present in 45 (49%); with hydrops in 32 (35%) fetuses, more frequently in 45X [n=24/31, 77% vs. T21 (n=6/36, 17%) and T13/18 (n=2/25, 8%), p<0.001]. Specialized fetal echocardiography was performed in 60% (55/92). Of these, 60% (33/55) showed changes in heart morphology and/or function. Fetuses with T13/18 had a higher incidence of cardiac anomalies [60 vs. 25% (T21) and 29% (45X), p= 0.01]. FD occurred in 55 (60%) gestations, being more frequent in 45X [n=26/31, 84% vs. T21 (n=13/36, 36%) and T13/18 (n=16/25, 64%), p<0.01]. Stepwise analysis showed a correlation between hydrops and death in fetuses with T21 (LR= 4.29; 95CI=1.9-8.0, p<0.0001). In fetuses with 45X, the presence of echocardiographic abnormalities was associated with lower risk of FD (LR= 0.56; 95CI=0.27- 0.85, p=0.005). No predictive factors were identified in the T13/18 group. Intra- uterine lethality of aneuploid fetuses is high. Occurrence of hydrops increases risk of FD in pregnancies with T21. In pregnancies with 45X, the occurrence of echocardiographic changes reduces this risk.

Resumo Estudo retrospectivo, de novembro de 2004 a maio de 2012, na Clínica Obstétrica do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, incluindo 92 gestações únicas com diagnóstico pré-natal de trissomia dos cromossomos 21 (T21), 18, 13 (T13/18) e monossomia do X (45X), realizado até a 26a semana, com o objetivo de descrever a frequência e investigar preditores do óbito fetal espontâneo (OF). O diagnóstico (T21: n=36; T13/T18: n=25; 45X: n=31) foi realizado em idade gestacional média de 18,3±3,7 semanas, por biópsia de vilo corial (n=22; 24%), amniocentese (n=66; 72%) e cordocentese (n=4; 4%). Malformação major presente em 45 (49%) fetos e hidropisia em 32 (35%), mais frequente no grupo 45X [n=24/31, 77% vs. T21 (n=6/36, 17%) e T13/18 (n=2/25, 8%); p<0,001]. Ecocardiografia fetal especializada foi realizada em 60% (55/92). Destes, 60% (33/55) tinham alterações na morfologia e/ou na função cardíaca. Fetos com T13/18 apresentaram incidência maior de anomalias cardíacas [60 vs. 25% (T21) e 29% (45X); p=0,01]. Ocorrência de OF em 55 (60%) gestações e mais frequente no grupo 45X [n=26/31, 84% vs. T21 (n=13/36, 36%) e T13/18 (n=16/25, 64%); p<0,01]. Análise stepwise demonstrou associação entre hidropisia e óbito em fetos com T21 (LR=4,29; IC95%=1,9-8,0; p<0,0001). Em fetos com 45X, a presença de alterações ecocardiográficas esteve associada com menor risco de OF (LR=0,56; IC95%=0,27-0,85; p=0,005). Não foram identificados fatores preditores no grupo T13/18. A letalidade intrauterina de fetos aneuploides é elevada. A presença de hidropisia aumenta o risco de OF em gestações com T21. Em gestações com 45X, a ocorrência de alterações ecocardiográficas reduz esse risco.

Spilanthol: occurrence, extraction, chemistry and biological activities

Abstract Spilanthol (C14H23NO, 221.339 g/mol) is a bioactive compound that is found in many different plants that are used as traditional remedies throughout the world. It is present in Heliopsis longipes and several species in the genus Acmella, including A. oleracea L., also known as paracress and jambu. Its leaves and flowers have sensory properties (pungency, tingling, numbing, mouth-watering) that make it a popular spice and ingredient in several Brazilian dishes. Spilanthol can exert a variety of biological and pharmacological effects including analgesic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, antimutagenic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antilarvicidal and insecticidal activities. So, the aim of this review is to present a literature review on the spilanthol that describes its occurrence, chemistry, extraction and biological activities.

As infecções genitais podem alterar os resultados dos testes preditivos do parto prematuro? / Can genital infections alter the results of preterm birth predictive tests?

OBJETIVOS: Verificar se a presença de agentes infecciosos no conteúdo vaginal ou cervical pode alterar os resultados dos testes da proteína-1 fosforilada ligada ao fator de crescimento insulina-símile (phIGFBP-1) e das medidas do comprimento do colo uterino (CC) pela ultrassonografia transvaginal. MÉTODOS: Um total de 107 gestantes com antecedente de prematuridade espontânea foram submetidas ao teste da phIGFBP-1 e à realização da ultrassonografia transvaginal para medida do comprimento do colo uterino, a cada três semanas, entre 24 e 34 semanas. As infecções genitais foram pesquisadas imediatamente antes da realização dos testes. As pacientes foram distribuídas em quatro grupos (GA, GB, GC e GD) e dentro de cada grupo foi avaliada a correlação entre infecção genital e alteração nos testes utilizando a análise das razões de chance (OR) e o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. RESULTADOS: Em cada grupo, mais de 50% das pacientes apresentaram infecção genital (GA 10/17; GB 28/42; GC 15/24; GD 35/53), sendo a vaginose bacteriana a principal alteração de flora vaginal. O resultado positivo para phIGFBP-1 (GA 10/10; GB 18/28; GC 15/15; GD 19/35) e CC≤20 mm (GA 10/10; GB 20/28; GC 10/15; GD 20/35) foram os resultados encontrados com maior frequência nas pacientes com infecção genital em todos os grupos. Porém, aplicando o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson foi identificada correlação entre infecção genital e positividade para os marcadores. CONCLUSÃO: A presença de alteração da flora vaginal e de outras infecções genitais não alteram significativamente os resultados do teste da phIGFBP-1 e da medida do colo uterino quando comparados aos casos sem infecção. No entanto, é necessária ...

PURPOSE: To determine if the presence of infectious agents in vaginal or cervical content can alter the results of the insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (phIGFBP-1) test and the measurement of cervical length (CC) by transvaginal ultrasonography. METHODS: A total of 107 pregnant women with a history of spontaneous preterm birth were submitted to the phIGFBP-1 test and to measurement of CC by transvaginal ultrasonography every 3 weeks, between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation. Genital infections were determined immediately before testing. The patients were distributed into four groups (GA, GB, GC, and GD) and the correlation between genital infection and changes in the tests was determined within each group based on the odds ratio (OR) and the Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: In each group, over 50% of the patients had genital infections (GA 10/17; GB 28/42; GC 15/24; GD 35/53), with bacterial vaginosis being the main alteration of the vaginal flora. Positive results for phIGFBP-1(GA 10/10; GB 18/28; GC 15/15; GD 19/35) and CC≤20 mm (GA 10/10; GB 20/28; GC 10/15; GD 20/35) were obtained more frequently in patients with genital infection in all groups. Nonetheless, when applying the Pearson correlation coefficient we detected a poor correlation between genital infection and positivity for markers. CONCLUSION: The presence of changes in the vaginal flora and of other genital infections does not significantly alter the results of phIGFBP-1 and the measurement of cervical length when compared to cases without infection. However, more studies with larger samples are necessary to confirm these results. .

Distribution of metabolites in galled and non-galled leaves of Clusia lanceolata and its antioxidant activity

Essential oils of galled and non-galled leaves of Clusia lanceolata Cambess., Clusiaceae, were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC and GC/MS. The chemical composition of both oils was similar, with a predominance of sesquiterpene caryophyllenes. The extracts from the leaves were evaluated regarding total phenols, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. Galled leaves showed higher levels of phenolics and proanthocyanidins, since the content of flavonoids was higher in non-galled leaves. The chromatographic profiles of extracts were obtained by using HPLC/DAD and LC-ESI-MS. Electrospray ionisation (ESI) in positive and negative ion mode was used to identify four flavones C-glycosides in both extracts. The study constitutes a first report on the chemical research of C. lanceolata. The extract from galled leaves had a higher antioxidant activity.

Bioactivity of the latex from Parahancornia amapa (Apocynaceae) on the development of Rhodnius nasutus (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) under laboratory conditions

Bioactivity of the latex from Parahancornia amapa (Apocynaceae) on the development of Rhodnius nasutus (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) under laboratory conditions. The aim of this study was to verify the effects of the methanolic fraction of the latex from Parahancornia amapa (Apocynaceae) (PALAM) on individuals of the species Rhodnius nasutus Stål (Hemiptera, Triatominae). Many of the insects treated with the substance presented deformities and these may interfere in the feeding and possibly hinder the reproductive capacity. They also presented significant mortality during the molt when compared to the control group, noting a gradual increase in mortality. The treated insects also presented delayed nymphal development (5th instar) and higher adult longevity.