Sublethal toxicity of carbofuran in cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis coromandus): hematological, biochemical, and histopathological alterations / Toxicidade subletal do carbofurano na garça-vaqueira (Bubulcus ibis coromandus): alterações hematológicas, bioquímicas e histopatológicas

Abstract This study was aimed to investigate Carbofuran (CF)-induced pathological changes in cattle egret. Two hundred cattle egrets were reared and equally divided into four groups and given different CF concentrations (0.03 mg/L, 0.02 mg/L, 0.01 mg/L and 0 mg/L (control group)). Hematology, serum biochemistry, histopathology, and immunological markers were studied. Our results confirm that CF induces anemic conditions, leukocytosis, elevated liver enzymatic activity, and alterations in renal biomarkers. Moreover, specific microscopic lesions such as multifocal necrosis, pyknotic nuclei, hemorrhages, congestion, and inflammatory cell proliferation were observed in the liver, kidney, spleen, and thymus. These findings suggest that CF can induce harmful effects, so the application of this pesticide in the field must be strictly monitored to mitigate the possibility of exposure to non-target species.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar as alterações patológicas induzidas por carbofurano (CF) em garças-vaqueiras. Duzentas dessas garças foram criadas e divididas igualmente em quatro grupos e receberam diferentes concentrações de CF: 0,03 mg/L; 0,02 mg/L; 0,01 mg/L; e 0 mg/L (grupo controle). Foram realizadas análises de hematologia, bioquímica sérica, histopatologia e marcadores imunológicos. Nossos resultados confirmaram que CF induz condições anêmicas, leucocitose, atividade enzimática hepática elevada e alterações nos biomarcadores renais. Além disso, lesões microscópicas específicas, como necrose multifocal, núcleos picnóticos, hemorragias, congestão e proliferação de células inflamatórias, foram observadas no fígado, rim, baço e timo. Esses achados sugerem que o CF pode causar efeitos nocivos, portanto a aplicação desse agrotóxico no campo deve ser rigorosamente monitorada para mitigar a possibilidade de exposição a espécies não alvo.

Clinico-pathological assessment of virulent Newcastle Disease Virus in ducks / Avaliação clínico-patológica do Vírus da Doença de Newcastle em patos

Abstract Newcastle disease (ND) is an infectious, highly contagious and lethal disease of avian species. It is considered that ducks are natural reservoir or carrier for Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and are resistant against different strains of NDV. Current study was designed to evaluate the pathogenesis of Newcastle disease in domestic ducks through histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and serum biochemical changes. For this purpose, eighty ducks were reared for 42 days and divided in two groups A and B. Ducks in group A were challenged with (NDV) at rate of 0.1 ml of ELD50 (virus titer 107.32/100µl) on second week of age, whereas Group B was control negative. Splenomegaly, atrophy of thymus and necrotic lesion in kidney were observed on 9th day of post infection. Hepatic degeneration and mononuclear cell infiltration were noticed in proventriculus and intestine in challenged ducks. Viral antigen detected in lungs, intestine, proventriculus and lymphoid organs of infected ducks through IHC. Albumin and total protein values were significantly low in infected groups A as compared to control group B. ALT, AST, and ALP values were significantly high in infected group A. On 5th and 7th day of post infection oropharyngeal swabs were negative for NDV and cloacal swabs were positive for NDV through Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. It is concluded that ducks are susceptible to NDV and virulent strain of NDV caused disease in ducks.

Resumo A doença de Newcastle (DN) é uma doença infecciosa, altamente contagiosa e letal de espécies aviárias. Considera-se que os patos são reservatórios ou portadores naturais do vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN) e são resistentes a diferentes cepas de VDN. O presente estudo foi desenvolvido para avaliar a patogênese da DN em patos domésticos por meio de histopatologia, imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) e alterações bioquímicas séricas. Para este propósito, 80 patos foram criados por 42 dias e divididos em dois grupos A e B. Os patos do grupo A foram submetidos ao VDN a uma taxa de 0,1 ml de ELD50 (título viral de 107,32 / 100 µl) na segunda semana de idade, enquanto o Grupo B foi controle negativo. Esplenomegalia, atrofia do timo e lesão necrótica no rim foram observadas no 9º dia pós-infecção. Degeneração hepática e infiltração de células mononucleares foram observadas no proventrículo e intestino em patos infectados. Antígeno viral foi detectado em pulmões, intestino, proventrículo e órgãos linfoides de patos infectados por IHQ. Os valores de albumina e proteína total foram significativamente baixos no grupo A infectado em comparação com o grupo B. Os valores de ALT, AST e ALP foram significativamente altos no grupo A. No 5º e no 7º dia após a infecção, os esfregaços orofaríngeos foram negativos para VDN, enquanto os esfregaços cloacais foram positivos para VDN por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase via transcriptase reversa. Conclui-se que os patos são suscetíveis ao VDN e à cepa virulenta de VDN que causou doenças em patos.

Sublethal toxicity of carbofuran in cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis coromandus): hematological, biochemical, and histopathological alterations

Abstract This study was aimed to investigate Carbofuran (CF)-induced pathological changes in cattle egret. Two hundred cattle egrets were reared and equally divided into four groups and given different CF concentrations (0.03 mg/L, 0.02 mg/L, 0.01 mg/L and 0 mg/L (control group)). Hematology, serum biochemistry, histopathology, and immunological markers were studied. Our results confirm that CF induces anemic conditions, leukocytosis, elevated liver enzymatic activity, and alterations in renal biomarkers. Moreover, specific microscopic lesions such as multifocal necrosis, pyknotic nuclei, hemorrhages, congestion, and inflammatory cell proliferation were observed in the liver, kidney, spleen, and thymus. These findings suggest that CF can induce harmful effects, so the application of this pesticide in the field must be strictly monitored to mitigate the possibility of exposure to non-target species.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar as alterações patológicas induzidas por carbofurano (CF) em garças-vaqueiras. Duzentas dessas garças foram criadas e divididas igualmente em quatro grupos e receberam diferentes concentrações de CF: 0,03 mg/L; 0,02 mg/L; 0,01 mg/L; e 0 mg/L (grupo controle). Foram realizadas análises de hematologia, bioquímica sérica, histopatologia e marcadores imunológicos. Nossos resultados confirmaram que CF induz condições anêmicas, leucocitose, atividade enzimática hepática elevada e alterações nos biomarcadores renais. Além disso, lesões microscópicas específicas, como necrose multifocal, núcleos picnóticos, hemorragias, congestão e proliferação de células inflamatórias, foram observadas no fígado, rim, baço e timo. Esses achados sugerem que o CF pode causar efeitos nocivos, portanto a aplicação desse agrotóxico no campo deve ser rigorosamente monitorada para mitigar a possibilidade de exposição a espécies não alvo.

Clinico-pathological assessment of virulent Newcastle Disease Virus in ducks

Abstract Newcastle disease (ND) is an infectious, highly contagious and lethal disease of avian species. It is considered that ducks are natural reservoir or carrier for Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and are resistant against different strains of NDV. Current study was designed to evaluate the pathogenesis of Newcastle disease in domestic ducks through histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and serum biochemical changes. For this purpose, eighty ducks were reared for 42 days and divided in two groups A and B. Ducks in group A were challenged with (NDV) at rate of 0.1 ml of ELD50 (virus titer 107.32/100µl) on second week of age, whereas Group B was control negative. Splenomegaly, atrophy of thymus and necrotic lesion in kidney were observed on 9th day of post infection. Hepatic degeneration and mononuclear cell infiltration were noticed in proventriculus and intestine in challenged ducks. Viral antigen detected in lungs, intestine, proventriculus and lymphoid organs of infected ducks through IHC. Albumin and total protein values were significantly low in infected groups A as compared to control group B. ALT, AST, and ALP values were significantly high in infected group A. On 5th and 7th day of post infection oropharyngeal swabs were negative for NDV and cloacal swabs were positive for NDV through Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. It is concluded that ducks are susceptible to NDV and virulent strain of NDV caused disease in ducks.

Resumo A doença de Newcastle (DN) é uma doença infecciosa, altamente contagiosa e letal de espécies aviárias. Considera-se que os patos são reservatórios ou portadores naturais do vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN) e são resistentes a diferentes cepas de VDN. O presente estudo foi desenvolvido para avaliar a patogênese da DN em patos domésticos por meio de histopatologia, imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) e alterações bioquímicas séricas. Para este propósito, 80 patos foram criados por 42 dias e divididos em dois grupos A e B. Os patos do grupo A foram submetidos ao VDN a uma taxa de 0,1 ml de ELD50 (título viral de 107,32 / 100 µl) na segunda semana de idade, enquanto o Grupo B foi controle negativo. Esplenomegalia, atrofia do timo e lesão necrótica no rim foram observadas no 9º dia pós-infecção. Degeneração hepática e infiltração de células mononucleares foram observadas no proventrículo e intestino em patos infectados. Antígeno viral foi detectado em pulmões, intestino, proventrículo e órgãos linfoides de patos infectados por IHQ. Os valores de albumina e proteína total foram significativamente baixos no grupo A infectado em comparação com o grupo B. Os valores de ALT, AST e ALP foram significativamente altos no grupo A. No 5º e no 7º dia após a infecção, os esfregaços orofaríngeos foram negativos para VDN, enquanto os esfregaços cloacais foram positivos para VDN por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase via transcriptase reversa. Conclui-se que os patos são suscetíveis ao VDN e à cepa virulenta de VDN que causou doenças em patos.

Perfil sociodemográfico e laboratorial dos pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise em um centro de referência do Estado do Ceará / Sociodemographic and laboratory profile of patients undergoing hemodialysis in a reference center in the State of Ceará / Perfil sociodemográfico y de laboratorio de dos pacientes sometidos a hemodiálisis en un centro de referencia del Estado de Ceará

A Doença Renal Crônica (DRC) é uma importante redução da função renal que causa alterações no metabolismo dos indivíduos. Para acompanhar a progressão da DRC e prevenir possíveis complicações, foi realizada uma pesquisa para avaliar o perfil sociodemográfico, bioquímico e hematológico de pacientes com Insuficiência Renal Crônica (IRC) submetidos a hemodiálise. Esta pesquisa foi quantitativa, descritiva e transversal de caráter retrospectivo, realizada por meio da análise de dados secundários contidos nos prontuários dos pacientes. A coleta de dados ocorreu no Centro de Hemodiálise da cidade de Russas, no Ceará. A amostra foi constituída por 161 pacientes com DRC, sendo 63,35% do sexo masculino e 85,71% pardos, com uma idade média de 54,39 anos. Desses, 63,97% tinham entre 2 e 10 anos de tratamento e 57,76% possuíam ensino fundamental incompleto. 19,25% residiam em Russas. Resultados: Após a hemodiálise, os resultados mostraram 44 mg/dL de Ureia, 48,44% dos pacientes com valores normais. A hemoglobina e hematócrito médios foram 11,8 g/dL e 33,7%, respectivamente, sendo que 63,35% tiveram valores reduzidos. 85,10% dos pacientes tiveram contagem de plaquetas normal, 72,04% níveis adequados de ferro e albumina, 52,79% tiveram níveis elevados de ferritina, 23,61% redução de transferrina e níveis lipídicos satisfatórios. 79,50% apresentaram níveis séricos de potássio dentro da normalidade, 12,42% de fósforo acima do normal, 85,09% de cálcio dentro dos valores normais, 39,13% de PTHi normais e 86,33% de glicose dentro dos valores considerados normais. Com base nos resultados, concluiu-se que todos os pacientes em tratamento hemodialítico apresentam diversas alterações em decorrência da DRC e do próprio processo de tratamento. Portanto, a realização de exames para avaliar ou monitorar possíveis complicações da IRC é essencial para criar estratégias e intervenções mais eficazes, que melhorem a assistência prestada a esses pacientes e, consequentemente, da qualidade e expectativa de vida dos mesmos.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is an important reduction in kidney function that causes changes in the metabolism of individuals. To monitor the progression of CKD and prevent possible complications, a survey was carried out to assess the sociodemographic, biochemical and hematological profile of patients with Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) undergoing hemodialysis. This research was quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional with a retrospective character, carried out through the analysis of secondary data contained in the patients' medical records. Data collection took place at the Hemodialysis Center in the city of Russas, Ceará. The sample consisted of 161 patients with CKD, 63.35% male and 85.71% brown, with an average age of 54.39 years. Of these, 63.97% had between 2 and 10 years of treatment and 57.76% had incomplete primary education. 19.25% resided in Russas. Results: After hemodialysis, the results showed 44 mg/dL of Urea, 48.44% of patients with normal values. Average hemoglobin and hematocrit were 11.8 g/dL and 33.7%, respectively, with 63.35% having reduced values. 85.10% of the patients had normal platelet counts, 72.04% had adequate levels of iron and albumin, 52.79% had high levels of ferritin, 23.61% had reduced transferrin and satisfactory lipid levels. 79.50% had serum levels of potassium within the normal range, 12.42% of phosphorus above normal, 85.09% of calcium within normal values, 39.13% of PTHi normal and 86.33% of glucose within the values considered normal. Based on the results, it was concluded that all patients on hemodialysis have several changes due to CKD and the treatment process itself. Therefore, carrying out tests to assess or monitor possible complications of CRF is essential to create more effective strategies and interventions that improve the care provided to these patients and, consequently, their quality and life expectancy.

La Enfermedad Renal Crónica (ERC) es una reducción importante de la función renal que provoca cambios en el metabolismo de los individuos. Para monitorizar la evolución de la ERC y prevenir posibles complicaciones, se realizó una encuesta para evaluar el perfil sociodemográfico, bioquímico y hematológico de los pacientes con Insuficiencia Renal Crónica (IRC) en hemodiálisis. Esta investigación fue cuantitativa, descriptiva y transversal con carácter retrospectivo, realizada a través del análisis de datos secundarios contenidos en las historias clínicas de los pacientes. La recolección de datos ocurrió en el Centro de Hemodiálisis de la ciudad de Russas, Ceará. La muestra estuvo constituida por 161 pacientes con ERC, 63,35% del sexo masculino y 85,71% pardos, con una edad media de 54,39 años. De estos, 63,97% tenían entre 2 y 10 años de tratamiento y 57,76% tenían primaria incompleta. El 19,25% residía en Russas. Resultados: Posterior a la hemodiálisis los resultados arrojaron 44 mg/dL de Urea, 48,44% de los pacientes con valores normales. La hemoglobina y el hematocrito medios fueron 11,8 g/dl y 33,7 %, respectivamente, con un 63,35 % con valores reducidos. El 85,10% de los pacientes presentaba plaquetas normales, el 72,04% presentaba niveles adecuados de hierro y albúmina, el 52,79% presentaba niveles elevados de ferritina, el 23,61% presentaba transferrina reducida y niveles satisfactorios de lípidos. El 79,50% presentaba niveles séricos de potasio dentro de la normalidad, el 12,42% de fósforo por encima de lo normal, el 85,09% de calcio dentro de los valores normales, el 39,13% de PTHi normal y el 86,33% de glucosa dentro de los valores considerados normales. Con base en los resultados, se concluyó que todos los pacientes en hemodiálisis tienen varios cambios debido a la ERC y al propio proceso de tratamiento. Por tanto, la realización de pruebas para evaluar o monitorizar las posibles complicaciones de la IRC es fundamental para crear estrategias e intervenciones más eficaces que mejoren la atención a estos pacientes y, en consecuencia, su calidad y esperanza de vida.

vitíligo, estrés psicológico y bioquímica del cerebro: Una revisión sistemática desde la neurociencia

Objetivo: El propósito de este estudio es establecer los mecanismos de la actividad Bioquímica a través del Estrés Psicológico que influyen en la enfermedad del vitiligo desde una perspectiva neurocientifica, mediante una revisión sistemática de la literatura de los últimos 5 años. Método: La búsqueda sistemática se llevó a cabo en las bases de datos Scopus, PubMed y Web of Science para identificar los estudios que describan la enfermedad de Vitiligo, el estrés psicológico y la bioquímica del cerebro, se establecieron criterios de inclusión y exclusión para la selección de los artículos, así mismo, se evaluó su calidad y pertinencia. Resultados: La revisión sistemática arrojó 15.503 artículos, 70 fueron preseleccionados de acuerdo a lo informado en el resumen y validados para lectura completa. Para la síntesis narrativa se utilizaron 23 artículos científicos. Conclusión: La enfermedad de vitiligo guarda una estrecha relación con el estrés psicológico y está acompañado de un desequilibrio bioquímico que conduce a un proceso inflamatorio y destructivo de los melanocitos de la piel.

Objective: The purpose of this study is to establish the mechanisms of biochemical activity through psychological stress that influence vitiligo disease from a neuroscientific perspective, through a systematic review of the literature of the last 5 years. Method: Systematic search was carried out in the Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science databases to identify studies describing Vitiligo disease, psychological stress and brain biochemistry, inclusion and exclusion criteria were established for the selection of articles, their quality and relevance were evaluated. Results: The systematic review yielded 15,503 articles, of which 70 were pre-selected as reported in the summary and validated for full reading. For the narrative synthesis 23 scientific articles were used. Conclusion: Vitiligo disease is closely related to psychological stress and is accompanied by a biochemical imbalance that leads to an inflammatory and destructive process of skin melanocytes.

Estrategias para la reconversión del ejercicio profesional: Proyecto Bioquímico Nexo / Strategies for the reconversion of professional practice: Biochemical Nexus Project

El avance de la ciencia y la tecnología en el área de la bioquímica clínica ha ocasionado la necesidad de reflexionar acerca de una reingeniería de la práctica profesional. El proceso diagnóstico es complejo y dinámico, requiere del trabajo interdisciplinario y de la comunicación efectiva, además de un cambio en el accionar profesional, con el eje centrado en el paciente y en un laboratorio "a puertas abiertas". En este marco se planteó el Proyecto Bioquímico Nexo (BN) con el propósito de lograr las competencias y habilidades necesarias para formar profesionales bioquímicos clínicos integrales que puedan cumplir con este nuevo rol sobre la base de una construcción colectiva de los saberes (AU)

Advances in science and technology in the area of clinical biochemistry have prompted the need to reflect on the reengineering of professional practice. The diagnostic process is complex and dynamic, requiring interdisciplinary work and effective communication, as well as a change in professional action, with the focus on the patient and an "open-door" laboratory. Within this framework, the Biochemical Nexus Project (BN) was proposed with the purpose of achieving the competencies and skills necessary to comprehensively train clinical biochemists who can fulfill this new role based on a collective construction of knowledge (AU)

Perception of first MBBS students toward online formative assessment in biochemistry

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic affected all the educational activities including medical education and there is a substantial shift from direct classes to online platforms.In competency-based medical education (CBME), the formative assessment orchestrates a prominent role in increasing the student’s capacity of learning. This method of teaching guides the students to measure the performance over a period of time and also improves the students’ knowledge gap. Aim and Objectives: The present study was carried to evaluate the perception and attitude of students toward online assessment during the formative assessment in 1st year MBBS degree in biochemistry subject. The study also aimed to assess practical difficulty and feasibility of conducting online assessment as a part of formative assessment as per CBME curriculum. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 124 1st year MBBS students and the students were informed about the assessment in 15 days advance. The perception and attitude of the students toward online assessment was done using 20 items structured questionnaire administered through Google forms. The students’ response was measured using 5-point Likert scale. Results: Among the 124 students, 42 (39.6%) were aware about online assessment. About 57.5% of students preferred any type of gadgets such as desktops, laptops, and smart phones. Most of the students 84.5% obtained 50–75% for a total score of 25. Around, 51.9% of students responded that online teaching is more feasible, and 74.5% reported that there is connectivity problem during online platform. In this study, 46.2% online assessment is safe and 41.5% strongly disagree that distraction from home environment did not affect the online assessment. Conclusion: The present study concludes that the students are more interested in MCQ-based question assessment for the knowledge assessment. Further, they opined in favor of online education but with some demerits.

Practices of integrating the undergraduate and graduate teaching of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology / 生物工程学报

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are the cornerstone courses of talent training in the field of life science. Taking these course as an example, this study explored reconstructing the knowledge framework, developing teaching cases, sharing teaching resources, innovating teaching means and establishing ideological education patterns. Supported by the scientific research achievements with discipline characteristics and online teaching platform, this research explored and practiced an integrated curriculum reform mode. This mode is guided by scientific research and education, based on the course development, and driven by communication and cooperation. A shared space of "exchange, practice, openness and informatization" was developed to achieve free and independent integration of undergraduate and graduate teaching motivated by learning knowledge, resulting in an effective student training.

Alterações bioquímicas de pacientes com COVID-19 / Alteraciones bioquímicas de pacientes con COVID-19 / Biochemical changes in patients with COVID-19

Resumo Objetivo identificar as alterações bioquímicas dos pacientes com apresentação moderada e grave da doença Covid-19 e as preditivas de gravidade nos que evoluíram do estagio moderado para o grave. Métodos Estudo de coorte prospectivo com 709 pacientes internados com diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19 e apresentação moderada e grave da doença. Foi realizado em um hospital universitário de média e alta complexidade do estado de São Paulo, no período de abril de 2020 a dezembro de 2021. Os dados coletados dos prontuários foram exames laboratoriais e evolução clínica dos pacientes. Na análise descritiva, foi utilizado frequência absoluta, percentual, média e desvio padrão. Os Testes do Qui-Quadrado de Pearson, Exato de Fisher, Mann-Whitney ou t de Student foram utilizados para comparar as diferenças entre os grupos dos moderados e graves. O nível de significância adotado foi de 0,05. Resultados A média de idade foi significantemente maior nos pacientes graves em relação aos moderados (p<0,001). Os valores da hemoglobina e plaquetas foram estatisticamente menores na internação no grupo dos pacientes graves, proteína C-reativa e D-Dímero, maiores (p<0,001). O número de óbitos foi significantemente maior nos pacientes que foram internados em estado grave (p<0,001) e verificamos também que a hemoglobina e plaquetas estavam abaixo dos valores de referência na internação deste grupo. Dos 533 pacientes que internaram em estado moderado, 38 evoluiram para quadro grave. Conclusão Os resultados mostram a importância da avaliação clínica das variáveis bioquímicas no momento da internação como preditivas de gravidade. Os achados reportados nesta investigação corroboram com dados da literatura e podem elucidar intervenções precoces para melhor manejo dos pacientes desde o momento da internação.

Resumen Objetivo Identificar las alteraciones bioquímicas de los pacientes con cuadro moderado y grave de la enfermedad de COVID-19 y las predictivas de gravedad en los que evolucionaron de nivel moderado a grave. Métodos Estudio de cohorte prospectivo con 709 pacientes internados con diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19 y cuadro moderado y grave de la enfermedad. Fue realizado en un hospital universitario de complejidad mediana y alta en el estado de São Paulo, durante el período de abril de 2020 a diciembre de 2021. Los datos obtenidos a partir de las historias clínicas fueron pruebas de laboratorio y evolución clínica de los pacientes. En el análisis descriptivo se utilizó frecuencia absoluta, porcentaje, promedio y desviación típica. Para comparar las diferencias entre los grupos de los moderados y graves se utilizaron las pruebas χ2 de Pearson, exacta de Fisher, Mann-Whitney o t de Student. El nivel de significación adoptado fue de 0,05. Resultados El promedio de edad fue considerablemente más alto en los pacientes graves en relación con los moderados (p<0,001). Los valores de la hemoglobina y de las plaquetas fueron estadísticamente inferiores en la internación en el grupo de los pacientes graves, proteína C reactiva y dímero D, superiores (p<0,001). El número de defunciones fue considerablemente más alto en los pacientes que ingresaron en estado grave (p<0,001) y verificamos también que la hemoglobina y las plaquetas estaban por debajo de los valores de referencia en la internación de este grupo. De los 533 pacientes que ingresaron en estado moderado, 38 evolucionaron hacia cuadros graves. Conclusión Los resultados muestran la importancia de la evaluación clínica de las variables bioquímicas en el momento de la internación como predictivas de gravedad. Los resultados informados en esta investigación confirman los datos de la literatura y pueden esclarecer intervenciones tempranas para un mejor manejo de los pacientes desde el momento de la internación.

Abstract Objective To identify the biochemical alterations of patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 and the predictors of severity in those who progressed from the moderate to the severe stage. Methods This is a prospective cohort study with 709 patients hospitalized with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and moderate and severe illness. It was carried out in a university hospital of medium and high complexity, in the state of São Paulo, from April 2020 to December 2021. Data collected from medical records were laboratory tests and clinical progression of patients. In the descriptive analysis, absolute frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used. Pearson's chi-square, Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney or Student's t tests were used to compare the differences between the moderate and severe groups. The significance level adopted was 0.05. Results The mean age was significantly higher in severe patients than in moderate ones (p<0.001). Hemoglobin and platelet values were statistically lower upon admission in the group of critically ill patients, C-reactive protein and D-dimer higher (p<0.001). The number of deaths was significantly higher in patients who were hospitalized in a serious condition (p<0.001) and we also found that hemoglobin and platelets were below the reference values at hospitalization in this group. Of the 533 patients who were hospitalized in a moderate condition, 38 progressed to a severe condition. Conclusion The results show the importance of clinical assessment of biochemical variables at the time of admission as predictors of severity. The findings reported in this investigation corroborate data from the literature and can elucidate early interventions for better management of patients from the moment of hospitalization.

The effect of aluminum treatment on metabolism in oil palm seedlings

Due to rainfall and high temperatures, the Amazonian soil undergoes changes in its source material and leaching of base cations. This results in deep, infertile, and acidic soil. Aluminum present in acidic soil impairs plant growth and development by inhibiting root formation, enzymatic reactions, absorption, transport, and nutrient utilization. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of aluminum dosage on the metabolism of the oil palm Elaeis guineensis Jacq. The study was conducted in a greenhouse at the Federal Rural University of Amazonia. The experimental design was randomized, with five replications, in which dosages of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg L-1 aluminum chloride (AlCl3.6H2O) were administered. Electrolyte leakage, nitrate, nitrate reductase, free ammonium, soluble amino acids, proline content, and soluble proteins were analyzed in the leaves and roots of the oil palm. The highest concentration of aluminum was found in the roots. AlCl3 treatment at 40 mg L-1 increased electrolyte leakage, nitrate, ammonium, and proline concentrations in the roots, and amino acid concentrations in both the leaves and roots. Furthermore, a decrease in nitrate reductase enzyme activity was observed in the roots. This study demonstrates that the oil palm has mechanisms of tolerance to aluminum toxicity.

Maestría en Bioquímica: dos decenios formando especialistas de cuarto nivel. Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo / Master's in Biochemistry: two decades training fourth-level specialists. Santo Domingo Autonomous University

A pesar de la gran importancia de las ciencias fisiológicas en el desarrollo de las ciencias de la salud, la preparación de recursos humanos en estas áreas se mantuvo muy por debajo de las especialidades clínico-quirúrgicas y epidemiológicas, en la Escuela de Ciencias Fisiológicas de la Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, República Dominicana. No fue hasta 1999, que ante la urgente necesidad de brindar oportunidades de calificación de cuarto nivel a los profesores, se inició el primer programa de Maestría en Bioquímica. El objetivo de esta comunicación es compartir sus logros y experiencias donde se destacan su vínculo asociado a las necesidades de superación y demandas laborales, los aspectos metodológicos en la impartición de sus seis programas y los ajustes atemperados a las condiciones impuestas por la pandemia de COVID-19.

Despite the great importance of the physiological sciences in the development of health sciences, the preparation of human resources in these areas felt behind the clinical-surgical and epidemiological specialties at the School of Physiological Sciences Santo Domingo Autonomous University, Dominican Republic. It was not until 1999, that according to the urgent need to provide fourth-level qualification opportunities to teachers, the first Master's program in Biochemistry began. The objective of this research paper is to share their achievements and experiences where their link associated with the needs for improvement and labor demands, the methodological aspects in the delivery of their six programs and the tempered adjustments to the conditions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic stand out.

La experimentación en la formación de especialistas en Bioquímica Clínica / Experimentation in the training of specialists in Clinical Biochemistry

Fundamento: la bioquímica es una ciencia experimental, por lo que la Bioquímica Clínica es muy apropiada para la creación de habilidades de trabajo experimental, en la carrera de Medicina. Objetivo: diseñar actividades prácticas para el módulo Proteínas, a fin de contribuir a la adquisición de las habilidades experimentales en la formación de los especialistas desde la Bioquímica Clínica. Métodos: se realizó una investigación cualitativa transversal observacional en la Facultad de Medicina, durante el año 2019. Los métodos teóricos utilizados fueron el analítico-sintético y el inductivo-deductivo; y empírico: el análisis documental; además, los métodos de diseño inverso para la planificación de las actividades prácticas, y el de aprendizaje por indagación en el desarrollo de los seminarios y de las actividades prácticas. Resultados: se diseñaron las actividades, teniendo en cuenta las unidades didácticas, habilidades experimentales a crear y las actividades prácticas de laboratorio. Se brindaron tareas específicas para desarrollar el pensamiento crítico, la resolución de problemas y la evaluación de situaciones complejas. Para su correcta aplicación se elaboraron guías y se orientó la bibliografía, lo cual facilitó el trabajo independiente. Conclusiones: las actividades prácticas diseñadas para el módulo Proteínas contribuyeron a que los residentes de Bioquímica Clínica adquirieran las habilidades del trabajo experimental, imprescindible para alcanzar la competencia profesional en la docencia, la investigación y la asistencia médica.

Background: biochemistry is an experimental science, so Clinical Biochemistry is very appropriate for the creation of experimental work skills in the Medicine career. Objective: design practical activities for the Proteins module, in order to contribute to the acquisition of experimental skills in the training of specialists from Clinical Biochemistry. Methods: a qualitative cross-sectional observational research was carried out at the Faculty of Medicine during 2019. The theoretical methods used were analytical-synthetic and inductive-deductive; and empirical ones: documentary analysis; In addition, reverse design methods for planning practical activities, and inquiry learning in the development of seminars and practical activities. Results: the activities were designed, taking into account the teaching units, experimental skills to be created and the practical laboratory activities. Specific tasks were provided to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and evaluating complex situations. For its correct application, guides were prepared and the bibliography was oriented, which facilitated independent work. Conclusions: the practical activities designed for the Proteins module contributed to the Clinical Biochemistry residents acquiring the skills of experimental work, essential to achieve professional competence in teaching, research and medical care.

Efeitos bioquímicos do óleo de bacuri (platonia insignis) em camundongos machos / Biochemical effects of bacuri oil (Platonia insignis) in male mice

Introdução: A utilização das plantas medicinais como fonte de pr odutos terapêuticos acompanha a história da humanidade. A Platoniainsignis é uma espécie frutífera nativa da Amazônia oriental, popularmente conhecida como bacuri. O óleo extraído das sementes do bacuri proporciona uma composição química com alto teor de substâncias ativas com efeitos cicatrizantes, antioxidantes e anti-inflamatórios. Objetivo: Este estudo visa caracterizar os efeitos bioquímicos do óleo de bacuri como possível alternativa terapêutica preventiva. Método: Foram utilizados 15 camundongos Swiss adultos divididos em 3 grupos. O óleo de bacuri nas doses de 10 e 100 mg/Kg e o veículo (óleo de oliva ­ 10 ml/Kg) foram administrados via oral por 30 dias consecutivos. Após 24 horas da administração do composto natural e do veículo, procedeu-se a eutanásia dos animais; sangue coletado por punção cardíaca e o plasma utilizado para realizar as análises bioquímicas. Foram avaliados os parâmetros bioquímicos: glicose, colesterol total, colesterol LDL (LowDensityLipoprotein) e HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), triglicerídeos, transaminase glutâmica oxalacética (TGO), transaminase glutâmica pirúvica (TGP), gama glutamil transferase (GGT), ureia, creatinina e proteínas totais. Resultados: O pré-tratamento com o óleo de bacuri promoveu efeitos benéficos nos parâmetros bioquímicos analisados. Conclusões: Desta forma, o fruto pode ser utilizado como uma alternativa terapêutica na prevenção de doenças.

Introduction: The utilization of medicinal plants as a source of therapeutic products has been a part of human history. Platonia insignis is a fruit species native to the eastern Amazon, popularly known as bacuri. The oil extracted from bacuri seeds provides a chemical composition with a high content of active substances with healing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Objective: This study aims to characterize the biochemical effects of bacuri oil as a possible preventive therapeutic alternative. Method: 15 adult Swiss mice were used, divided into three groups. Bacuri oil at doses of 10 and 100 mg/kg and the vehicle (olive oil ­ 10 ml/kg) were administered orally for 30 consecutive days. After 24 hours of administration of the natural compound and vehicle, the animals were euthanized; blood collected by cardiac puncture and plasma used to perform biochemical analyses. The biochemical parameters were evaluated: glucose, total cholesterol, LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) and HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, triglycerides, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), urea , creatinine, and total proteins. Results: Pretreatment with bacuri oil promoted beneficial effects on the biochemical parameters analyzed. Conclusions: In this way, the fruit can be used as a therapeutic alternative in the prevention of diseases.

Investigation of antioxidant activity of ethanolic extract of the bark of Caesalpinia ferrea in Swiss mice exposed to paracetamol / Investigação da atividade antioxidante do extrato etanólico da casca de Caesalpinia ferrea em camundongos Swiss expostos ao paracetamol

Aims: it was evaluated the antioxidant effect of the ethanolic extract of Caesal-pinia ferrea bark in a model of oxidative stress induced by paracetamol (PCM). Methods: male Swiss mice were subdivided into four groups (control; PCM; PCM+extract; extract; n=8) in which a dose of paracetamol (250 mg.kg-1) was administered and after 3 hours the treatment with the extract (100 mg.kg-1/day) was administered for seven days, via gavage. Oxidative stress biomarkers were determined, such as catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, reduced gluta-thione, ascorbic acid, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and carbonylated proteins of liver, kidneys and brain and plasma parameters through the dosage of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. Results: the Caesalpinia ferrea extract was able to reverse the lipid and protein damage caused by the drug in the liver tissue and caused the same effect in the renal and brain tissues in the carbonylated proteins. The extract alone decreased liver glutathione-S-transferase and increased catalase and brain glutathione-S-transferase activity, in addition to lowering glucose and cholesterol, but without altering the triglycerides. Conclusions: it was possible to conclude that the ethanolic extract of the bark of Caesalpinia ferrea has a good antioxidant activity, probably due to dose of paracetamol in the samples investigated. However, more studies are needed for a better understanding of the effects of this extract compared to the effects found in this research

Objetivos: foi avaliado o efeito antioxidante do extrato etanólico da casca de Caesalpinia ferrea em modelo de estresse oxidativo induzido por paracetamol (acetaminofeno, PCM). Métodos: camundongos Swiss machos foram subdivididos em quatro grupos (controle; PCM; PCM+extrato; extrato; n=8) nos quais foi administrada uma dose de paracetamol (250 mg.kg-1) e após três horas foi administrado o tratamento com o extrato (100 mg.kg-1/ dia) por sete dias, via gavagem. Foram determinados biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo, como catalase, glutationa-S-transferase, glutationa reduzida, ácido ascórbico, substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico e proteínas carboniladas do fígado, rins e cérebro, além de parâmetros plasmáticos através da dosagem de glicose, colesterol, triglicerídeos, aspartato aminotransferase e alanina aminotransferase. Resultados: o extrato de Caesalpinia ferrea foi capaz de reverter os danos lipídicos e proteicos causados pela droga no tecido hepático, e também causou o mesmo efeito nos tecidos renal e cerebral nas proteínas carboniladas. O extrato sozinho diminuiu a atividade da glutationa-S-transferase hepática e aumentou a da catalase e glutationa-S-transferase cerebral, além de diminuir a glicose e o colesterol, mas sem alterar os triglicerídeos. Conclusões: foi possível concluir que o extrato etanólico da casca de Caesalpinia ferrea apresenta uma boa atividade antioxidante, provavelmente devido à presença de taninos, tendo em vista os danos causados pela alta dose de paracetamol nas amostras investigadas. Entretanto, mais estudos são necessários para um melhor entendimento dos efeitos deste extrato frente aos efeitos encontrados nesta pesquisa

Retinal arterial macroaneurysms in patients recovered from COVID-19 / Macroaneurismas arteriais retinianos em pacientes recuperados da COVID-19

ABSTRACT This is a case series about retinal arterial macroaneurysms in three patients recovered from COVID-19. None of them had previous past ocular and systemic history. The first patient was a 47-year-old man, with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes. He presented a cotton wool spot in the right eye and two peripheral exudative retinal arterial macroaneurysms in the left eye. Laser photocoagulation was performed and best-corrected visual acuity remained stable. The second one was a 62-year-old-woman with acute visual loss in the right eye (best-corrected visual acuity of 20/400). There was vitreous hemorrhage and a peripheral retinal arterial macroaneurysm in the right eye. Laser photocoagulation was performed and best-corrected visual acuity improved to 20/20. The third patient was a 54-year-old woman, with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 in the right eye and 20/600 in the left eye. Fundus examination showed multiple layer hemorrhage in the macular region and retinal arterial macroaneurysms in the superior temporal branch. The cases underwent fluorescein angiography, which confirmed the diagnosis of retinal arterial macroaneurysms.

RESUMO Esta é uma série de casos sobre macroaneurismas arteriais da retina em três pacientes recuperados da COVID-19. Nenhum tinha história ocular e sistêmica prévias. O primeiro era um homem de 47 anos, com melhor acuidade visual corrigida de 20/20 em ambos os olhos. Apresentava mancha algodonosa em olho direito e dois macroaneurismas arteriais da retina exsudativos periféricos em olho esquerdo. Foi realizada fotocoagulação a laser, e a melhor acuidade visual corrigida permaneceu estável. A segunda era uma mulher de 62 anos com perda visual aguda em olho direito (melhor acuidade visual corrigida de 20/400). Havia hemorragia vítrea e um macroaneurisma periférico em olho direito. O laser foi realizado, e a melhor acuidade visual corrigida melhorou para 20/20. A terceira paciente era uma mulher de 54 anos, com melhor acuidade visual corrigida 20/20 em olho direito e 20/600 olho esquerdo. A fundoscopia mostrou hemorragia em múltiplas camadas na região macular e um macroaneurisma arterial da retina no ramo temporal superior. Os casos foram submetidos à angiofluoresceinografia, que confirmou o diagnóstico de macroaneurismas arteriais da retina.

Methods of apoptosis detection: advances and applications / 药学学报

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a common phenomenon which involved in a variety of physiological and pathological conditions in humans, such as neurodegenerative diseases, ischemic injury, autoimmune diseases and cancers. Apoptosis can be detected in vitro by morphology, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, and other techniques. Probes for cell apoptosis detection in vivo are still under research and various reagents and methods are constantly emerging. However, none of apoptosis detection methods or reagents are perfect and they all have advantages and disadvantages, as well as suitable scope of application. With the increasing application of apoptosis detection techniques, researchers will be confused about how to choose a suitable method to detect apoptosis and define the application range of each apoptosis detection method. Therefore, it is necessary to compare the benefits and drawbacks of existing apoptosis detection techniques as well as their applicable conditions. This article reviews morphological characteristics, molecular mechanism and specific biochemical changes in apoptotic cells. We summarized various apoptosis-detection methods based on these characteristics that can be used in vitro and in vivo, the advantages and disadvantages of each method and the scope of application. Also, we highlighted the existing tracers that have been used in apoptosis detection in vivo, their potentialities and limitations as well as the clinical applications of apoptosis imaging in multiple disease fields.

Reform and practice of blended teaching of biochemistry and molecular biology in the context of new medicine / 中华医学教育探索杂志

Objective:To investigate the application effect of the blended teaching model of "pre-class synchronous small private online course (SPOC)+ flipped classroom+post-class knowledge expansion" in the theoretical teaching of biochemistry and molecular biology. Methods:A total of 951 students majoring in clinical medicine, preventive medicine, and pharmacy in the class of 2020 in Qiqihar Medical College were selected as teaching reform research group (experimental group), and their curriculum relied on the self-built massive open online course (MOOC) curriculum and the MOOC resources of Chinese universities to construct a blended teaching model; the reform methods such as small class grouping, case-based learning, and diversified examination were adopted to carry out theoretical flipped teaching activities with cross integration of cases and knowledge points as the main line. A total of 847 students majoring in clinical medicine, preventive medicine, and pharmacy in the class of 2019 were selected as control group, and the traditional teaching method was used for theoretical courses. The courses were evaluated by offline assessment and online assessment, and feedback information was collected through examination scores, questionnaire survey, and online voting. SPSS 20.0 was used for statistical analysis, and the t-test was used for comparison between groups. Results:The experimental group had a significantly higher total score of final examination than the control group [(92.12±3.88) vs. (86.73±5.27), P<0.05]. The questionnaire survey showed that the students in the experimental group showed a relatively high degree of satisfaction with the blended teaching reform, which increased their participation, experiencing, and sharing activities. The students majoring in clinical medicine in the class of 2020 believed that they had established clinical thinking ability (263, 92.61%) and become familiar with the clinical manifestations and pathogenesis of common diseases (262, 92.25%); the students majoring in preventive medicine in the class of 2020 believed that they had increased their awareness of serving the public (151, 93.21%) and developed the ability to teach and guide healthy living (148, 91.36%); the students majoring in pharmacy in the class of 2020 believed that they had mastered the mechanism of action of drugs for disease treatment (138, 93.24%) and understood the importance of rational drug use in clinical practice (135, 91.22%). Conclusion:The blended teaching model realizes student-centered teaching, stimulates the interest and initiative in learning, and improves learning outcome, thereby improving teaching quality to a certain extent.

Research on community learning model in network teaching of Biochemistry course / 中华医学教育探索杂志

In the online teaching of Biochemistry course, a variety of network resource platforms (such as Zhihuishu learning network, teleconference, WeChat, QQ, etc) were used to establish a learning community. The teaching content and teaching plan were carefully designed and implemented, enriching the knowledge system of the learning community. And then blending teaching was performed through the combination of live broadcasting and online interaction. In addition to teaching students the basic knowledge of biochemistry, it is also combined with clinical cases and life examples to interact and discuss with students in various forms, giving full play to the advantages of learning community and improving the quality and effect of online learning.

Effects of Mucuna Milk (Mucuna pruriens L.) on Body Weight and Serum Biochemistry in Rats Fed Hyperlipidaemic Diet

Aims: to investigate the potential of Mucuna milk to influence weight gain, blood lipid levels and redox status in a rat model on a high-fat diet. Study Design: 42 healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 7 groups of 6 rats. Group I received a standard diet; Group II was fed a high fat diet only; Group III was fed a high fat diet and treated with Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg per day) orally for 4 weeks; Group IV, V, VI and VII were tests groups fed a high fat diet and given orally 20 mL of vegetable milk. Methodology: Mucuna milks were produced from two varieties of Mucuna seeds. Three controls (I, II, III) made of normal rats fed with standard diet, rats fed with high fat diet and rats fed with high fat diet received orally atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day). In addition, four test groups (IV, V, VI, VII) consisting of rats fed a high fat diet received oral administration of 20 mL of vegetable milk per day (10 mL at morning and 10 mL in the afternoon). Results: After four weeks, rats on a high-fat diet had an increase in their initial body weight of about 224%, with higher abdominal fat. A significant increase (P<0.05) in lipid peroxidation (MDA) in the liver and heart was also observed. However, oral administration of Mucuna milk inhibited weight gain (about 66% reduction) and abdominal fat (54.53 – 55.60% reduction). The reduction of LDL, VLDL, Triglycerides and Total cholesterol was remarkable in the groups of rats treated with vegetable milk, as about 67% of reduction was observed with dehulled Mucuna milks (DCM, DVM) and 69 % of reduction with whole Mucuna milks (WCM, WVM). The hyperlipidaemic group of rats had higher levels of ASAT (134.17 UI/L) and ALAT (101.72 UI/L). However, Mucuna milks improved the ASAT and ALAT levels in rats. The reduction of MDA (70-50%) was related to phenolic content of Mucuna milks. Moreover, significant and negative correlations was observed between catalase and MDA (r= -0.86; P =0.05); MDA and SOD (r= - 0.60; P=0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that treatment with Mucuna milks has anti-hyperlipidaemia properties and can increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes.