Erratic migration of Ascaridia hermaphrodita (Nematoda: Ascaridida) in a blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) from illegal wildlife trade: case report / [Migração errática de Ascaridia hermaphrodita (Nematoda: Ascaridida) em papagaio-verdadeiro (Amazona aestiva) oriundo do comércio ilegal: relato de caso]

Ascaridiasis by Ascaridia hermaphrodita is a common parasitic disease in blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) and the contamination occurs by ingestion of eggs. Illegal trade of wild birds can increase the frequency of visceral erratic migration by this parasite. Hence, this report describes the erratic migration of A. hermaphrodita and associated lesions in a blue-fronted Amazon parrot. This is a retrospective study, which originated from several apprehension of illegal birds in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Necropsy revealed intense intestinal ascarid infestation. Hepatic lesions were also observed associated with the parasite migration. Stereoscopy allowed the identification of the morphology of the parasites. Summarizing, this condition in wild birds is not fully understood and may be associated with illegal trade.(AU)

Ascaridíase por Ascaridia hermaphrodita é uma doença parasitária comum em papagaios-verdadeiros. Sua contaminação ocorre pela ingestão de ovos. O tráfico de aves silvestres pode facilitar a migração errática visceral desse parasita. Este relato descreve a migração errática de A. hermaphrodita e lesões associadas em papagaio-verdadeiro. Trata-se de um relato retrospectivo, analisado a partir de uma série de apreensões de aves no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. A necropsia revelou intensa infestação ascarídea intestinal. Também foram observadas lesões hepáticas em uma ave, associadas à migração do parasita. A estereoscopia permitiu distinguir a morfologia dos parasitas. Resumidamente, essa condição em aves silvestres é pouco conhecida e pode ser considerada, inclusive, associada à comercialização ilegal.(AU)

Effects of exercise training on autonomic modulation and mood symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

We evaluated the effects of exercise training (ET) on the profile of mood states (POMS), heart rate variability, spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and sleep disturbance severity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Forty-four patients were randomized into 2 groups, 18 patients completed the untrained period and 16 patients completed the exercise training (ET). Beat-to-beat heart rate and blood pressure were simultaneously collected for 5 min at rest. Heart rate variability (RR interval) was assessed in time domain and frequency domain (FFT spectral analysis). BRS was analyzed with the sequence method, and POMS was analyzed across the 6 categories (tension, depression, hostility, vigor, fatigue, and confusion). ET consisted of 3 weekly sessions of aerobic exercise, local strengthening, and stretching exercises (72 sessions, achieved in 40±3.9 weeks). Baseline parameters were similar between groups. The comparisons between groups showed that the changes in apnea-hypopnea index, arousal index, and O2 desaturation in the exercise group were significantly greater than in the untrained group (P<0.05). The heart rate variability and BRS were significantly higher in the exercise group compared with the untrained group (P<0.05). ET increased peak oxygen uptake (P<0.05) and reduced POMS fatigue (P<0.05). A positive correlation (r=0.60, P<0.02) occurred between changes in the fatigue item and OSA severity. ET improved heart rate variability, BRS, fatigue, and sleep parameters in patients with OSA. These effects were associated with improved sleep parameters, fatigue, and cardiac autonomic modulation, with ET being a possible protective factor against the deleterious effects of hypoxia on these components in patients with OSA.

Study of morphometric and ruminal parameters in santa inês sheep fed spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica, MILL) / [Estudo dos parâmetros morfométricos e ruminais em ovinos Santa Inês alimentados com cactus sem espinhos (Opuntia ficus-indica, MILL)]

The present study aimed to morphometrically evaluate the ruminal mucosa and ruminal fluid characteristics of Santa Inês sheep fed different levels of spineless cactus as a replacement for Tifton grass hay. A total of 32 intact male Santa Inês sheep, approximately 180 days old and with a mean weight of 32.0±1.6kg, were studied in a completely randomized design with four treatments and eight replicates. The morphometric measurements evaluated in the ruminal epithelium (papilla height and surface area) were significantly affected (P< 0.05) by supplementation of the diet with spineless cactus, and these effects showed increasing linear trends. Evaluations of the ruminal fluid also showed a significant increasing linear effect (P< 0.05) for ammonia and a quadratic effect for microbial protein. The inclusion of spineless cactus in the sheep diet affects the ruminal epithelium morphology, including the papilla height and surface area, and favors the absorption process in the rumen. The diet containing higher levels of spineless cactus led to maximum microbial protein production. These results characterize spineless cactus as a feasible alternative for feeding sheep during periods of drought, when the typical food source is scarce.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar morfometricamente a mucosa ruminal e as características do líquido ruminal de ovinos Santa Inês alimentados com diferentes níveis de palma forrageira como substituta do feno de capim-Tifton. Um total de 32 ovinos, machos inteiros, da raça Santa Inês, com aproximadamente 180 dias de idade e peso médio de 32,0±1,6kg, foi estudado em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e oito repetições. As medidas morfométricas avaliadas no epitélio ruminal (altura e área superficial da papila) foram significativamente afetadas (P<0,05) pela suplementação da dieta com palma forrageira, e esses efeitos mostraram tendências lineares crescentes. As avaliações do fluido ruminal também mostraram um efeito linear crescente significativo (P<0,05) para a amônia e um efeito quadrático para a proteína microbiana. A inclusão de palma forrageira na dieta de ovinos afeta a morfologia do epitélio ruminal, englobando a altura e a área da papila, e favorece o processo de absorção no rúmen. A dieta contendo níveis mais altos de palma forrageira levou à produção máxima de proteína microbiana. Esses resultados caracterizam a palma forrageira como uma alternativa viável para a alimentação de ovelhas durante períodos de seca, quando a fonte típica de alimento é escassa.(AU)

Evaluación del proceso de decanulación en pacientes traqueostomizados en el Hospital Carlos van Buren: una cohorte retrospectiva / Evaluation of decannulation process in tracheotomized patients at Carlos van Buren Hospital: a retrospective cohort

RESUMEN Introducción: El proceso de decanulación consiste en la evaluación de las competencias de la vía aérea superior que conlleva al retiro definitivo de una cánula de traqueostomía. La predicción de su éxito resulta dificultosa debido al alto número de variables que la afectan. Para conseguir este objetivo, es fundamental contar con un protocolo adecuado a la institución de salud, que se sume a un manejo multidisciplinario. Objetivo: El objetivo propuesto fue evaluar el éxito de decanulación en los pacientes adultos del Hospital Carlos van Buren que siguieron el protocolo institucional. Material y método: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo que se desarrolló durante el primer semestre del año 2016. Se evaluó el éxito de decanulación en pacientes adultos traqueostomizados que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. La muestra final fue de 18 pacientes, de los cuales se obtuvieron datos de interés desde las historias clínicas y registros del servicio de medicina y rehabilitación. Resultados: De los 18 pacientes incluidos en el estudio ninguno cumplió con los criterios de ingreso al protocolo de decanulación institucional al momento de la evaluación inicial por el Servicio de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación, requiriendo todos entrenamiento para aplicar dicho protocolo. Finalmente, un total de 15 pacientes lograron decanulación exitosa, requiriendo una mediana de 22 días de entrenamiento fonoaudiológico y kinesiológico. Conclusiones: Tras el entrenamiento terapéutico se logró 83% de éxito en la decanulación, lo que requirió un trabajo coordinado entre las diferentes disciplinas del servicio de medicina física y rehabilitación y del apoyo del servicio de otorrinolaringología. Se deberá revaluar el protocolo institucional para ajustarlo a la realidad local.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The decannulation process consist in the evaluation of the upper airways competences which carry the definite extraction of the traqueostomy cannula. The prediction of its success is difficult due to the high number of variables that affect it. In order to reach this goal, is fundamental to count with an adequate protocol of the health institution, which assumes the multidisciplinary management. Aim: The proposed goal was to evaluate the success of decannulation in adult patients of Carlos van Buren hospital who followed the institutional protocol. Material and method: The cohort retrospective study that developed during the first semester of 2016. The decannulation success was evaluated in adult patients tracheostomized who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The final sample was of 18 patients, of which were obtained data of interest from the clinical histories and register of the Medicine and Rehabilitation Service. Results: Of the 18 patients in this study none of them met the entry criteria of the institutional decannulation protocol at the time of the initial evaluation by the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, requiring all training in order to apply the protocol. Finally, a total of 15 patients achieved a successful decannulation requiring a median of 22 days of phonoaudiological and kinesiological training. Conclusions: After the therapeutic training it was achieved a 83% of success in decannulation, which required a coordinated work between the different disciplines of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service and the support of the Otorhinolaryngology Service. The institutional protocol should be evaluated to adjust it to the local reality.

Histomorphologic characterization of the hepatopancreas of freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii (De Man, 1879) / Caracterização histomorfológica do hepatopâncreas do camarão-de-água-doce Macrobrachium rosenbergii (De Man, 1879)

This study aimed to describe the Macrobrachium rosenbergii hepatopancreas histomorphology. The hepatopancreas is constituted by a set of blind end tubules, divided into proximal, middle, and distal regions, with the epithelium formed by E, F, B, R, and M cells differently of other species. Measurements of the length and width of the tubules were 419.64+69.09µm and 117.42+16.99µm, respectively. The percentage of each cell type per region was: proximal region (40%B, 20%F, 6.7%M, 33.3%R), middle region (45.4%B, 18.2%F, 9.1%M, and 27.3%R) and distal region (36.4%E, 27.2%B, 18.2%F, 9.1%M, 9.1%R). Cell B that stores glycogen and lipids, is the most commonly found cell in proximal and middle regions. In the distal region, the E, responsible for the mitosis, is the most prominent. M, responsible by nutrient storage, is numerically constant among the portions differently in the Macrobrachium amazonicum. The study for the first time also suggests that in addition to digestive enzymes, the F cell produces protective mucus. The present study generated for the first time a morphometric profile of M. rosenbergii hepatopancreas, demonstrating differences from other species, and can be an important tool for new studies in nutrition, reproduction, and production with the species.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever a histomorfologia do hepatopâncreas do camarão-de-água-doce Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Observou-se que ele é constituído por um conjunto de túbulos de fundo cego, sendo cada túbulo dividido em regiões proximal, média e distal, com o epitélio formado por cinco tipos de células (E, F, B, R, M), diferentemente de outras espécies. As medidas de comprimento e largura dos túbulos foram de 419,64+69,09µm e 117,42+16,99µm, respectivamente. A porcentagem de cada tipo celular por região foi: região proximal (40%B, 20%F, 6,7%M, 33,3%R), região média (45,4%B, 18,2%F, 9,1%M e 27,3%R) e região distal (36,4%E, 27,2%B, 18,2%F, 9,1%M, 9,1%R). Assim, a B, que armazena glicogênio e lipídeos, é a célula mais encontrada nas regiões proximal e média. Na região distal, a célula E, responsável pela mitose, é a mais encontrada. A célula M, responsável pelo acúmulo de nutrientes, tem um número constante de células nas porções do túbulo, diferentemente do Macrobrachium amazonicum. O estudo também sugere, pela primeira vez, que a célula F produz, além de enzimas digestivas, um muco protetor para o túbulo hepatopancreático. O presente estudo foi o primeiro a gerar um perfil morfométrico do hepatopâncreas do M. rosenbergii e demonstrou diferenças em relação a outras espécies, bem como serviu de importante ferramenta para novos estudos que abranjam a produção, a nutrição e a reprodução para a espécie.(AU)

Factores de riesgo para alteraciones de la densidad mineral ósea en mujeres posmenopáusicas / Risk factors for alterations in bone mineral density in postmenopausal women

OBJETIVO: Determinar los factores de riesgo para presentar alteraciones de la densidad mineral ósea (DMO) en mujeres posmenopáusicas atendidas en la consulta de Menopausia y Climaterio de la Maternidad "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", de Maracaibo, Venezuela. MÉTODOS: Investigación descriptiva, con diseño no experimental y transeccional, donde se evaluó la DMO y los factores de riesgo para presentar osteoporosis en 60 mujeres posmenopáusicas. RESULTADOS: La medición de la DMO resultó en promedio de 957,45 ± 149,95 y 905,00 ± 151,25 gramos, con índices T de -0,52 ± 1,66 y -0,55 ± 2,67 en columna vertebral y cuello femoral, respectivamente. Se estableció una prevalencia de osteoporosis del 10% y 5%, y de osteopenia del 43,3% y 50% en columna vertebral y fémur, respectivamente. La menopausia quirúrgica (OR [95% CI] = 4,75 [1,58-14,25]; p=0,004), el consumo excesivo de café (OR [95% CI] = 3,20 [1,40-7,10 1]; p=0,000) o gaseosas (OR [95% CI] = 2,50 [1,18-5,60]; p=0,002), tabaquismo (OR [95% CI] = 1,70 [1,102,80]; p=0,013) y la ausencia de suplementación de calcio más vitamina D (OR [95% CI] = 1,70 [1,00-2,80]; p=0,019) resultaron ser factores significativamente asociados al diagnóstico de osteoporosis u osteopenia (p<0,05). CONCLUSIÓN: Las mujeres posmenopáusicas evaluadas presentan una alta prevalencia de alteraciones en la DMO, principalmente osteopenia, y factores de riesgo para presentar Osteoporosis.

AIM: To determine risk factors for presenting alterations in bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women attending the consultation of Menopause and Menopause Maternity "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", Maracaibo, Venezuela. METHODS: A descriptive research with non-experimental and transactional design where was evaluated BMD and risk factors for developing osteoporosis in 60 postmenopausal women. RESULTS: The BMD measurement was averaged in 957.45 ± 149.95 and 905.00 ± 151.25 grams; with T indexes of -0.52 ± 1.66 and -0.55 ± 2.67 in spine and femoral neck, respectively. The prevalence of osteoporosis was 10% and 5%, while osteopenia was 43.3% and 50% in spine and femur, respectively. Surgical menopause (OR [95% CI] = 4.75 [1.58 to 14.25]; p=0.004); excessive coffee consumption (OR [95% CI] = 3.20 [1,40- 7.10 1]; p=0.000) or gaseous beverages (OR [95% CI] = 2.50 [1.18 to 5.60]; p=0.002); smoking (OR [95% CI] = 1.70 [1.10 to 2.80]; p=0.013) and the absence of supplemental calcium plus vitamin D (OR [95% CI] = 1.70 [1.00 to 2.80]; p=0.019) were be factors significantly associated with the diagnosis of osteoporosis or osteopenia (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The evaluated postmenopausal women have a high prevalence of abnormal BMD, especially osteopenia, and risk factors for developing osteoporosis.

Reliability and validity of heart rate variability threshold assessment during an incremental shuttle-walk test in middle-aged and older adults

Studies on the assessment of heart rate variability threshold (HRVT) during walking are scarce. We determined the reliability and validity of HRVT assessment during the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) in healthy subjects. Thirty-one participants aged 57 ± 9 years (17 females) performed 3 ISWTs. During the 1st and 2nd ISWTs, instantaneous heart rate variability was calculated every 30 s and HRVT was measured. Walking velocity at HRVT in these tests (WV-HRVT1 and WV-HRVT2) was registered. During the 3rd ISWT, physiological responses were assessed. The ventilatory equivalents were used to determine ventilatory threshold (VT) and the WV at VT (WV-VT) was recorded. The difference between WV-HRVT1 and WV-HRVT2 was not statistically significant (median and interquartile range = 4.8; 4.8 to 5.4 vs 4.8; 4.2 to 5.4 km/h); the correlation between WV-HRVT1 and WV-HRVT2 was significant (r = 0.84); the intraclass correlation coefficient was high (0.92; 0.82 to 0.96), and the agreement was acceptable (-0.08 km/h; -0.92 to 0.87). The difference between WV-VT and WV-HRVT2 was not statistically significant (4.8; 4.8 to 5.4 vs 4.8; 4.2 to 5.4 km/h) and the agreement was acceptable (0.04 km/h; -1.28 to 1.36). HRVT assessment during walking is a reliable measure and permits the estimation of VT in adults. We suggest the use of the ISWT for the assessment of exercise capacity in middle-aged and older adults.

Antimicrobial and Antiinflammatory Potential of the Swedish Herbs Extract.

Oral conditions that produce the greatest damage on individuals are cavities and periodontal disease, hence non-expensive and effective solutions are immediately required, particularly for communities with no access to dental services. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential of the Swedish bitter herbal extract was evaluated, using pure microbial cultures and clinical samples of 29 patients. It was observed that the extract caused significant (p<0.05) in vitro growth inhibition of up to 29%, 17%, 15%, and 50% against Prevotella intermedia, Bacteroides forsythus, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus intermedius, respectively. In addition, the extract significantly (p<0.05) inhibited oral flora growth in patient samples showing MICs of < 7.8 μg/ml in 21% of the patients, 15.6μg/ml in 17% of the patients, 31.2 μg/ml in 10% of the patients, 62.5 μg/ml in 17% of the patients, 125 μg/ml in 3% of the patients, and 250 μg/ml in 7% of the patients, and induced a maximum of 75% growth inhibition, as measured by the MTT reduction assay. The extract was also observed to significantly suppress production of the inflammatory marker nitric oxide by LPS-treated murine peritoneal macrophages. The Swedish herbal extract may be considered in the clinics to prevent or treat bacterial oral infections and at the same time reducing inflammation.

Uso de clozapina en trastorno bipolar refractario / Clozapine in refractory bipolar disorder

Background: The combination of multiple agents including lithium, mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, represents the most commonly strategy in bipolar disorder treatment. Lack of response, breakthrough episodes during adequate maintenance treatment, functional impairment, including re-hospitalization, suicide attempts and intolerance of medication are considered clinical inclusion criteria for treatment resistance in bipolar disorder. In bipolar disorder, Clozapine as mono-therapy or in combination treatment, remains as a efficacious second line agent, with few clinical data available, mainly including short observational periods, small samples and uncontrolled trials. Methods: We analyze retrospectively clinical data about five female bipolar refractory patients who were under combined treatment including atypical antipsychotics. Due to this combined first line treatment resistance, Clozapine was indicated as an add-on agent. Equivalent analysis periods were established for each patient, previous and under Clozapine use. These periods extends from 8 months to 5 years and 2 months. Results: Clozapine average daily dose was 260 mgs. No adverse effects were noticed. Total hospitalization days decrease from 979 days to 118 days andsu icide attempts decrease from 14 ep isodes in pre Clozap ine period to 1 episode in the Clozapine treatment period. No re-hospitalization neither self harm attempts with Clozapine add on treatment were reported in 3 patients. Conclusion: Clozapine efficacy, in treatment resistance bipolar patients, should be considered as a second line option in combination therapy with insufficient response. Therapeutic benefits of Clozapine may include potential decrease of self harm conduct in bipolar patients as in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Antecedentes: La combinación de múltiples agentes incluyendo el litio, los estabilizadores del ánimo y los antipsicóticos, representa la estrategia más común en el tratamiento del trastorno bipolar. La falta de respuesta, la irrupción de nuevos episodios durante un adecuado tratamiento de mantención, el deterioro funcional incluyendo la re-hospitalización, los intentos de suicido y la intolerancia a la medicación se consideran criterios clínicos de inclusión para establecer la resistencia al tratamiento en el trastorno bipolar. En el trastorno bipolar, la Clozapina como terapia única o en tratamiento combinado, se mantiene como un agente de segunda línea eficaz, con pocos datos clínicos disponibles, incluyendo principalmente períodos cortos de observación, muestras pequeñas y ensayos no controlados. Métodos: Analizamos datos clínicos en forma retrospectiva de cinco pacientes mujeres bipolares refractarias que se sometieron a tratamiento combinado que incluyó antipsicóticos atípicos. Debido a resistencia a este tratamiento de primera línea, se indicó Clozapina como antipsicótico asociado al tratamiento. Se establecieron períodos de análisis equivalentes para cada paciente, previo y durante el uso de Clozapina. Estos períodos se extendieron de 8 meses a 5 años y 2 meses. Resultados: La dosis diaria promedio de Clozapina fue de 260 mg. No se observaron efectos adversos. Los días de hospitalización totales disminuyeron de 979 días a 118 días y los intentos de suicidio disminuyeron de 14 episodios en el período previo a Clozapina a 1 episodio durante el período de tratamiento con Clozapina. En tres pacientes no se informó de re-hospitalizaciones ni de intentos de auto agresiones con el tratamiento agregado de Clozapina. Conclusión: La eficacia de Clozapina en pacientes bipolares con resistencia al tratamiento debiera considerarse como una opción de segunda línea en terapia combinada con respuesta insuficiente. Los beneficios terapéuticos de Clozapina pueden inclui...

Modelo de suplementação nutricional com fatores hepatotróficos aumenta proliferação celular em fígado de ratos sadios / Model of nutritional supplementation with hepatotrophic factors increases cell proliferation in the liver of healthy rats

Foram avaliados dois protocolos de administração, em ratos sadios, de uma solução de fatores hepatotróficos (FH), composta por aminoácidos, vitaminas, sais minerais, glicose, insulina, glucagon e triiodotironina (T3). A solução foi administrada durante 10 dias, 40mg/kg/dia, i.p., em duas, grupo 2xFH (n=15), ou três doses, grupo 3xFH (n=15), diárias. Foram observados os efeitos na proliferação celular dos hepatócitos, na angiogênese e na matriz extracelular hepática, assim como as possíveis reações adversas. Os animais dos grupos 2xFH e 3xFH apresentaram aumento da massa hepática de 30,1 por cento e 22,5 por cento, respectivamente, em relação ao grupo-controle (CT; n=15). O índice de proliferação hepatocelular foi maior nos grupos 2xFH (1,4 por cento) e 3xFH (1,2 por cento) em relação ao grupo CT (0,53 por cento), e a densitometria relativa do fator de crescimento do endotélio vascular pelo imunoblot não revelou diferença estatística entre os três grupos. Nos grupos 2xFH e 3xFH, houve redução do colágeno intersticial em relação ao grupo CT. A solução de FH estimulou o crescimento hepático e reduziu o volume de colágeno perissinusoidal. A administração em três doses diárias resultou em mortalidade de 26,7 por cento, possivelmente pelo excessivo estresse da manipulação e pela menor adaptação fisiológica dos ratos, o que não ocorreu nos grupos 2xFH e CT. Para esse tipo de abordagem em ratos, o procedimento experimental mais apropriado, seguro, com melhor chance de adaptação dos animais e com resultados significativos é a aplicação dos FH em duas doses diárias.

Two protocols of hepatotrophic factors (HF) administration, in solution composed by aminoacids, vitamins, mineral salts, glucose, insulin, glucagon, and triiodothyronine were evaluated in healthy rats. This solution was administered for 10 days, (40mg/kg/day) i.p., in two (group 2xFH; n=15) or three daily doses (group 3xFH n=15). The effects on hepatocytes cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and hepatic extracellular matrix, and also possible adverse reactions were analyzed. Animals of groups 2xFH and 3xFH presented an increase in hepatic mass of 30.1 percent and 22.5 percent, respectively, when compared rats of control group (CT; n=15). Hepatocellular proliferation index was higher in rats of groups 2xFH (1.4 percent) and 3xFH (1.2 percent) when compared to CT group animals (0.53 percent), and the relative densitometry of the vascular endothelial growth factor analyzed with immunoblot did not show a significant difference among the three groups. Rats of groups 2xFH and 3xFH showed a reduction of interstitial collagen when compared to CT rats. HF solution stimulated hepatic growth and reduced the volume of perisinusoidal collagen. Administration in three daily doses resulted in 26.7 percent mortality, possibly due to excessive stress from manipulation and lower physiological adaptation of rats, which did not occur in rats of groups 2xFH and CT. The more appropriate and safer experimental procedure for this approach in rats with higher chance of animal adaptation and significant results is the application of HF in two daily doses.

Modulation of extracellular matrix by nutritional hepatotrophic factors in thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in the rat

Nutritional substances associated to some hormones enhance liver regeneration when injected intraperitoneally, being denominated hepatotrophic factors (HF). Here we verified if a solution of HF (glucose, vitamins, salts, amino acids, glucagon, insulin, and triiodothyronine) can revert liver cirrhosis and how some extracellular matrices are affected. Cirrhosis was induced for 14 weeks in 45 female Wistar rats (200 mg) by intraperitoneal injections of thioacetamide (200 mg/kg). Twenty-five rats received intraperitoneal HF twice a day for 10 days (40 mL·kg-1·day-1) and 20 rats received physiological saline. Fifteen rats were used as control. The HF applied to cirrhotic rats significantly: a) reduced the relative mRNA expression of the genes: Col-α1 (-53 percent), TIMP-1 (-31.7 percent), TGF-β1 (-57.7 percent), and MMP-2 (-41.6 percent), whereas Plau mRNA remained unchanged; b) reduced GGT (-43.1 percent), ALT (-17.6 percent), and AST (-12.2 percent) serum levels; c) increased liver weight (11.3 percent), and reduced liver collagen (-37.1 percent), regenerative nodules size (-22.1 percent), and fibrous septum thickness. Progranulin protein (immunohistochemistry) and mRNA (in situ hybridization) were found in fibrous septa and areas of bile duct proliferation in cirrhotic livers. Concluding, HF improved the histology and serum biochemistry of liver cirrhosis, with an important reduction of interstitial collagen and increased extracelullar matrix degradation by reducing profibrotic gene expression.

Tradução, adaptação cultural e análise das propriedades psicométricas do Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire (ADLQ) para avaliação funcional de pacientes com a doença de Alzheimer / Translation, cultural adaptation and psychometric analysis of the Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire (ADLQ) for functional assessment of patients with Alzheimer's disease

OBJETIVOS: Realizar a tradução e a adaptação transcultural de um instrumento de medida do desempenho das atividades de vida diária de pacientes com a doença de Alzheimer e analisar as suas propriedades psicométricas. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi composta por 60 pacientes e os respectivos 60 cuidadores. A pesquisa ocorreu com a tradução do instrumento pela técnica de retrotradução associada ao método bilíngue. A versão traduzida foi respondida pelo cuidador e o Mini Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM) aplicado ao paciente. A análise psicométrica foi realizada por meio da validade das medidas do instrumento. RESULTADOS: Os resultados verificaram uma correlação inversamente significativa (-0,793) ao nível de 5 por cento entre os instrumentos, com uma explicação da variância total de 62 por cento. As matrizes de correlação interitens demonstraram que alguns itens se correlacionam com as medidas globais de capacidade funcional de forma pouco positiva e significante. A correlação realizada entre os itens do instrumento traduzido com o MEEM permitiu testar a coerência interna do instrumento com um já validado. As variáveis correlacionadas significativamente com o MEEM foram selecionadas, sugerindo um instrumento mais condensado. Por meio do teste t para amostras correlacionadas, as médias do ADLQ-versão traduzida e versão condensada não diferem estatisticamente ao nível de 5 por cento de significância, de forma que a simplificação do instrumento não alterou a média do nível de dependência funcional. A análise fatorial realizada pela rotação Varimax indicou seis dimensões. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo disponibiliza uma nova ferramenta de avaliação funcional, visando contribuir para a mensuração mais cuidadosa do estado funcional do paciente por todos os profissionais da área da saúde.

OBJECTIVES: To translate and cross-culturally adapt an instrument that measures the performance of Alzheimer's patients in their activities of daily living and to analyze the psychometric properties of the instrument. METHODS: The sample consisted of 60 patients and their 60 respective caregivers. The instrument was translated using the back-translation technique in association with the bilingual method. The caregivers gave responses to the translated version, and the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was applied to the patients. Psychometric analysis was conducted by means of the validity of the instrument measures. RESULTS: The results showed an inversely significant correlation (-0.793) at the 5 percent level between the instruments, and 62 percent of the total variance was explained. The inter-item correlation matrices demonstrated that some items correlated with the overall measurements of functional capacity in a slightly positive, non-significant manner. Correlation between the items of the translated instrument and the MMSE made it possible to test the internal coherence of the instrument with an already validated instrument. The variables that correlated significantly with the MMSE were selected, thus suggesting that the instrument could be further condensed. The t test for correlated items showed that the measures of the translated ADLQ version and the condensed version did not differ statistically at a significance level of 5 percent, such that the simplification of the instrument did not change the mean level of functional dependency. Factorial analysis carried out using varimax rotation indicated six dimensions. CONCLUSION: This study introduces a new functional assessment tool with the aim of contributing to a more precise measurement of the patient's functional status by all healthcare professionals.

Desenvolvimento e validação de um instrumento de medida da satisfação do paciente com a fisioterapia / Development and validation of an instrument for measuring patient satisfaction with physical therapy

OBJETIVO: Desenvolver e validar um instrumento de medida da satisfação do paciente com o tratamento fisioterapêutico e também identificar seus principais indicadores. MÉTODO: A amostra foi composta por 834 pacientes ambulatoriais de ambos os sexos, com idade média de 46,7 anos e usuários de planos de saúde, que responderam o questionário em 45 clínicas da rede privada de saúde nos municípios de Natal e Mossoró/RN - Brasil. A pesquisa ocorreu desde o processo de desenvolvimento do instrumento até o estudo das suas propriedades psicométricas. A análise qualitativa da amostra inicial de itens do questionário ocorreu por meio de sua apreciação por especialistas. Um estudo piloto precedeu o refinamento do questionário previamente à coleta dos dados. A análise psicométrica (avaliação do teste desenvolvido) foi realizada por meio do estudo da confiabilidade e validade das medidas obtidas com o instrumento. RESULTADOS: Os resultados alcançados para a confiabilidade, por meio do Coeficient alfa de Cronbach (alfa = 0,94), e validades de conteúdo, simultânea e de construto, demonstraram elevada consistência interna e satisfatória validade segundo padrões psicométricos da satisfação do paciente com a fisioterapia. A análise fatorial indicou quatro dimensões em que a interação paciente-terapeuta, especialmente as questões relativas às habilidades de comunicação do fisioterapeuta, parecem ser os melhores indicadores de satisfação. Aspectos relativos à conveniência, como localização da clínica e disponibilidade do estacionamento, não indicaram forte predição de satisfação com a assistência recebida. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo disponibiliza nova ferramenta para auxiliar na gerência e no processo de planejamento necessários ao incremento da qualidade nos serviços de fisioterapia.

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate an instrument for measuring patient satisfaction with physical therapy, and to identify the most important satisfaction indicators. METHOD: The sample was composed of 834 outpatients of both sexes with mean age of 46.7 years who were health plan users at 45 private health clinics in Natal and Mossoró, State of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, and who answered a questionnaire. The study covered the process of developing the instrument as well as the analysis of its psychometric properties. Qualitative analysis on the initial sample of items in the questionnaire was performed by a panel of specialists. A pilot study preceded refinement of the questionnaire and was carried out prior to data collection. Psychometric analysis (evaluation of the test that was developed) was performed by means of studying the reliability and validity of the measures obtained with the instrument. RESULTS: The results achieved in relation to reliability, by means of Cronbach's alpha coefficient (alpha = 0.94), and content, simultaneous, and construct validities showed high internal consistency and satisfactory validity according to psychometric standards for patient satisfaction with physical therapy. Factorial analysis indicated the existence of four dimensions in which patient-therapist interaction, especially regarding the physical therapist's communication skills, seem to be the best indicators of satisfaction. Aspects related to personal convenience, such as location of the clinic and availability of parking, were not strongly predictive of satisfaction with the care received. CONCLUSION: This study makes available a new tool to contribute to management and to the planning process necessary for improving the quality of physical therapy services.

Fatores asssociados a alteração da mobilidade em idosos residentes na comunidade / Factors associated with alteration of mobility among elderly residents in the community

Alteracoes na mobilidade sao problemas comuns entre os idosos, as quais levam a limitacao na realizacao das atividades da vida diaria. Neste contexto, a intervencao fisioterapeutica objetiva melhorar a funcionalidade e controle da deambulacao, suficiente para tornar o idoso seguro e que lhe permita independencia. Porem, para que ocorra uma intervencao precisa e eficaz, e necessario conhecer os idosos que sao mais vulneraveis e quais os fatores que estao associados aquelas alteracoes. Objetivo: analisar a influencia de fatores sociodemograficos, fisicos e mentais sobre a mobilidade de idosos residentes no municipio de Santa Cruz, RN, Brasil...

Prevalência e fatores associados a dor em bailarinos profissionais / Prevalence and associated factors with pain in professional dancers

PURPOSE: To investigate factors associated to pain in ballet dancers as well its prevalence. METHODS: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study among 141 professional ballet dancers from the main capitals of Northeastern Brazil. In order to evaluate the symptoms of pain we used Portuguese official versions of the McGill Protocol and the Pain Inventory of Wisconsin. For statistical analysis of the results we performed a descriptive assessment, followed by T-Student and Pearson's Correlation tests (taking a value of p < 0.05). RESULTS: We observed high levels of pain tolerance in 70.2% of the subjects, in which the intensity varied from moderate to severe. The lumbar region was the most affected (85.8%). We observed positive correlations concerning the intensity degree of pain with activities such as dancing (60.3%), sleeping (28.4%), marching (20.6%), general activities (32.6%), mood (27.7%), and personal relations (16.3%). CONCLUSION: We observed a high prevalence of pain in professional ballet dancers from the main Northeastern capitals, attacking mostly the lumbar region, followed by knees, neck, hip and feet, with substantial interference of pain symptoms in several activities of the personal and professional lives of these people.

O efeito da cafeína no desempenho de ciclistas sob condçoes de alto risco térmico / Effect of caffeine in the performance of cyclists under high thermal risk

PURPOSE: To verify the effect of caffeine on yield time, the tympanic temperature and body weight with the administration of 5 and 9 mg/kg doses of caffeine and placebo, in cycling races under high thermal risk conditions. METHODS: Eight highly-trained cyclists were studied in 3 races of 45 km using the experimental model and double-blind with intra-subjects randomized. RESULTS: Air temperature ranged from 28.,5 and 32 degrees C and humidity between 71 e 78% with an index of WBGT varying between 24.5 degrees and 27 degrees C, figures that indicate high thermal risk. No significant differences were observed between variables assessed, yet yield time was lower with doses of 5 and 9 mg/kg caffeine than with placebo. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that heat and humidity conditions may be sufficient to mask the ergogenic benefit of caffeine in cycling races of prolonged duration. Therefore, isn't justifiable it's utilization in high thermal risk conditions.

Immunomodulatory properties of Alternanthera tenella Colla aqueous extracts in mice

Plants from the genus Alternanthera are thought to possess antimicrobial and antiviral properties. In Brazilian folk medicine, the aqueous extract of A. tenella Colla is used for its anti-inflammatory activity. The present study investigated the immunomodulatory property of A. tenella extract by evaluating the antibody production in male albino Swiss mice weighing 20-25 g (10 per group). The animals received standard laboratory diet and water ad libitum. The effect of A. tenella extract (5 and 50 mg/kg, ip) was evaluated in mice immunized with sheep red blood cells (SRBC 10 percent, ip) as T-dependent antigen, or in mice stimulated with mitogens (10 æg, Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide, LPS, ip). The same doses (5 and 50 mg/kg, ip) of A. tenella extract were also tested for antitumor activity, using the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma as model. The results showed that 50 mg/kg A. tenella extract ip significantly enhanced IgM (64 percent) and IgG2a (50 percent) antibody production in mice treated with LPS mitogen. The same dose had no effect on IgM-specific response, whereas the 5 mg/kg treatment caused a statiscally significant reduction of anti-SRBC IgM-specific antibodies (82 percent). The aqueous extract of A. tenella (50 mg/kg) increased the life span (from 16 ± 1 to 25 ± 1 days) and decreased the number of viable tumor cells (59 percent) in mice with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. The present findings are significant for the development of alternative, inexpensive and perhaps even safer strategies for cancer treatment

Efeitos do exercicio cronico com orientacao nutricional sobre parametros lipidicos de mulheres obesas / Effect of chronic exercise with nutritional orientation on lipidics variables at plasm from obese women

A obesidade e uma doenca com incidencia epidemiologica atinge 41,5 (por cento)da populacao brasileira e esta fortemente relacionada as dislipidemias. O objetivo do presente estudo foi observar os efeitos do exercicio cronico de intensidade moderada, realizado 2 vezes por semana durante um periodo de 12 semanas, acompanhado de orientacao nutricional, sobre a composicao lipidica no plasma de mulheres obesas. Para este estudo foram considerados os seguintes parametros: avaliacao antropometrica (peso, estatura e circunferencias da cintura e do quadril), concentracao de glicose e lipidios no soro (lipidios totais triglicerides e colesterol total, pelo metodo colorimetrico enzimatico) e avaliacao clinica nutricional. Decorrente do exercicio e da orientacao nutricional observou-se diminuicao significativa de 29,8(por cento) na concentracao de lipidios totais e de 9,50(por cento) no colesterol total (*p< 0,05), reducao media de 9,9(por cento) na concentracao de glicose sanguinea e de 18,9(por cento) na concentracao de triglicerides. Desse modo, acreditamos que este modelo de intervencao (exercicio moderado associado a orientacao nutricional) contribui de forma substancial para o controle da obesidade e alteracoes no metabolismo lipidico

Cross-fostering between two species of marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) and Callithrix penicillata)

Cross-fostering technique can be defined as adoption of infants by adults of other species. This phenomenon is poorly investigated because very young animals have few opportunities to interact peacefully with non-conspecific adults, either in captivity or in natural conditions. This study describes the induction of cross-fostering in captivity between white tufted-ear (Callithrix jacchus) and black tufted-ear marmosets (Callithrix penicillata). We conclude that this technique can be very useful for preserving the life of rejected by parents or orphan infants, mainly in the case of species with low reproduction rate in captivity or those threatened by extinction, as well for investigating the environmental effects on the typical behavior of species (courtship, food preference, vocalization patterns, e.g.).

Pidotimod en el tratamiento de la infección respiratoria recurrente / Treatment of recurrent respiratory tract infection with pidotimod

Se evaluó la eficacia y seguridad de pidotimod* 400 mg solución, dos veces al día, en una población pediátrica de entre tres y 10 años de edad, con infecciones respiratorias recurrentes con anamnesis positiva. Para el estudio, se seleccionaron 80 pacientes de tres unidades médicas de Ciudad Nezahualcóyotl, que ingresaron a un protocolo doble ciego contra placebo. La duración del tratamiento fue de 10 días con un seguimiento de 60 días. Se evidenció una importante reducción de los episodios respiratorios, correlacionándola con la sintomatología en el grupo tratado con pidotimod*; asimismo, se observó disminución del número de días de inasistencia a la escuela y de la necesidad de utilizar antibióticos y terapéutica sintomática. Por la seguridad y eficacia clínica demostrada, se concluye que pidotimod* provee un tratamiento óptimo para la reducción de los cuadros de infecciones respiratorias recurrentes en pediatría