Effect of Brassica rapa var. rapifera on Insulin Resistance and Inflammatory Analysis of Visceral Adipose Tissue of Obese Wistar Rats Under Glucolipotoxicity Condition / Efecto de Brassica rapa var. rapifera sobre la Resistencia a la Insulina y el Análisis Inflamatorio del Tejido Adiposo Visceral de Ratas Wistar Obesas en Condiciones de Glucolipotoxicidad

SUMMARY: Obesity-related pathophysiologies such as insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome show a markedly increased risk for type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This risk appears to be linked to alterations in adipose tissue function, leading to chronic inflammation and the dysregulation of adipocyte-derived factors. Brassica rapa have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases, including diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of nutritional stress induced by a high-fat and high-sucrose diet on the pathophysiology of visceral adipose tissue and the therapeutic effect of Brassica rapa in male Wistar rats. We subjected experimental rats to a high-fat (10 %) high-sucrose (20 %)/per day for 11 months and treated them for 20 days with aqueous extract Br (AEBr) at 200 mg/kg at the end of the experiment. At the time of sacrifice, we monitored plasma and tissue biochemical parameters as well as the morpho-histopathology of visceral adipose tissue. We found AEBr corrected metabolic parameters and inflammatory markers in homogenized visceral adipose tissue and reduced hypertrophy, hyperplasia, and lipid droplets. These results suggest that AEBr enhances anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and a protective effect on adipose tissue morphology in type 2 diabetes and obesity.

La fisiopatología relacionadas con la obesidad, como la resistencia a la insulina y el síndrome metabólico, muestran un riesgo notablemente mayor de diabetes tipo 2 y enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica. Este riesgo parece estar relacionado con alteraciones en la función del tejido adiposo, lo que lleva a una inflamación crónica y a la desregulación de los factores derivados de los adipocitos. Brassica rapa se ha utilizado en la medicina tradicional para el tratamiento de varias enfermedades, incluida la diabetes. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el efecto del estrés nutricional inducido por una dieta rica en grasas y sacarosa sobre la fisiopatología del tejido adiposo visceral y el efecto terapéutico de Brassica rapa en ratas Wistar macho. Sometimos a ratas experimentales a una dieta rica en grasas (10 %) y alta en sacarosa (20 %)/por día durante 11 meses y las tratamos durante 20 días con extracto acuoso de Br (AEBr) a 200 mg/kg al final del experimento. En el momento del sacrificio, monitoreamos los parámetros bioquímicos plasmáticos y tisulares, así como la morfohistopatología del tejido adiposo visceral. Encontramos parámetros metabólicos corregidos por AEBr y marcadores inflamatorios en tejido adiposo visceral homogeneizado y reducción de hipertrofia, hiperplasia y gotitas de lípidos. Estos resultados sugieren que AEBr mejora el efecto antidiabético, antiinflamatorio y protector sobre la morfología del tejido adiposo en la diabetes tipo 2 y la obesidad.

Prediction of visceral leishmaniasis incidence using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA) in the state of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease predominant in countries located in the tropics. The prediction of occurrence of infectious diseases through epidemiologic modeling has revealed to be an important tool in the understanding of its occurrence dynamic. The objective of this study was to develop a forecasting model for the incidence of VL in Maranhão using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA). We collected monthly data regarding VL cases from the National Disease Notification System (SINAN) corresponding to the period between 2001 and 2018. The Box-Jenkins method was applied in order to adjust a SARIMA prediction model for VL general incidence and by sex (male or female) for the period between January 2019 and December 2013. For 216 months of this time series, 10,431 cases of VL were notified in Maranhão, with an average of 579 cases per year. With regard to age range, there was a higher incidence among the pediatric public (0 to 14 years of age). There was a predominance in male cases, 6437 (61.71%). The Box-Pierce test figures for overall, male and female genders supported by the results of the Ljung-Box test suggest that the autocorrelations of residual values act as white noise. Regarding monthly occurrences in general and by gender, the SARIMA models (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) and (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) were the ones that mostly adjusted to the data respectively. The model SARIMA has proven to be an adequate tool for predicting and analyzing the trends in VL incidence in Maranhão. The time variation determination and its prediction are decisive in providing guidance in health measure intervention.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença de natureza infecciosa, predominante em países de zonas tropicais. A predição de ocorrência de doenças infecciosas através da modelagem epidemiológica tem se revelado uma importante ferramenta no entendimento de sua dinâmica de ocorrência. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um modelo de previsão da incidência da LV no Maranhão usando o modelo de Média Móvel Integrada Autocorrelacionada Sazonal (SARIMA). Foram coletados os dados mensais de casos de LV através do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) correspondentes ao período de 2001 a 2018. O método de Box-Jenkins foi aplicado para ajustar um modelo de predição SARIMA para incidência geral e por sexo (masculino e feminino) de LV para o período de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2023. Durante o período de 216 meses dessa série temporal, foram registrados 10.431 casos de LV no Maranhão, com uma média de 579 casos por ano. Em relação à faixa etária, houve maior registro no público pediátrico (0 a 14 anos). Houve predominância do sexo masculino, com 6437 casos (61,71%). Os valores do teste de Box-Pierce para incidência geral, sexo masculino e feminino reforçados pelos resultados do teste Ljung-Box sugerem que as autocorrelações de resíduos apresentam um comportamento de ruído branco. Para incidência mensal geral e por sexo masculino e feminino, os modelos SARIMA (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) e (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) foram os que mais se ajustaram aos dados, respectivamente. O modelo SARIMA se mostrou uma ferramenta adequada de previsão e análise da tendência de incidência da LV no Maranhão. A determinação da variação temporal e sua predição são determinantes no norteamento de medidas de intervenção em saúde.

Spatio-temporal analysis of the visceral leishmaniasis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniosis is a neglected tropical disease. We evaluated the spatial distribution of cases of visceral leishmaniosis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. All cases of VL, registered by the health department, were analyzed and georeferenced. Results: Between 2008 and 2017, 97.1% of the municipalities presented sporadic classification of transmission. With temporal evolution, the incidence of cases of visceral leishmaniosis was concentrated in most municipalities in the microregion of Santana do Ipanema-AL. Space-time analysis, if considered, may promote the improvement of surveillance and control actions of visceral leishmaniosis.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral é uma doença tropical negligenciada. Foram avaliadas a distribuição espacial dos casos de leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas. Todos os casos de LV, registrados pela secretaria de saúde, foram analisados e georreferenciados. Entre 2008 e 2017, 97,1% dos municípios apresentaram classificação esporádica de transmissão. Com a evolução temporal, a incidência de casos de leishmaniose visceral se concentrou na maioria dos municípios da microrregião de Santana do Ipanema-AL. A análise espaço-tempo, se considerada, pode promover o aprimoramento das ações de vigilância e controle da leishmaniose visceral.

Prediction of visceral leishmaniasis incidence using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA) in the state of Maranhão, Brazil / Previsão da incidência da leishmaniose visceral usando o modelo de média móvel integrado autorregressivo sazonal (SARIMA) no Maranhão, Brasil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease predominant in countries located in the tropics. The prediction of occurrence of infectious diseases through epidemiologic modeling has revealed to be an important tool in the understanding of its occurrence dynamic. The objective of this study was to develop a forecasting model for the incidence of VL in Maranhão using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA). We collected monthly data regarding VL cases from the National Disease Notification System (SINAN) corresponding to the period between 2001 and 2018. The Box-Jenkins method was applied in order to adjust a SARIMA prediction model for VL general incidence and by sex (male or female) for the period between January 2019 and December 2013. For 216 months of this time series, 10,431 cases of VL were notified in Maranhão, with an average of 579 cases per year. With regard to age range, there was a higher incidence among the pediatric public (0 to 14 years of age). There was a predominance in male cases, 6437 (61.71%). The Box-Pierce test figures for overall, male and female genders supported by the results of the Ljung-Box test suggest that the autocorrelations of residual values act as white noise. Regarding monthly occurrences in general and by gender, the SARIMA models (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) and (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) were the ones that mostly adjusted to the data respectively. The model SARIMA has proven to be an adequate tool for predicting and analyzing the trends in VL incidence in Maranhão. The time variation determination and its prediction are decisive in providing guidance in health measure intervention.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença de natureza infecciosa, predominante em países de zonas tropicais. A predição de ocorrência de doenças infecciosas através da modelagem epidemiológica tem se revelado uma importante ferramenta no entendimento de sua dinâmica de ocorrência. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um modelo de previsão da incidência da LV no Maranhão usando o modelo de Média Móvel Integrada Autocorrelacionada Sazonal (SARIMA). Foram coletados os dados mensais de casos de LV através do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) correspondentes ao período de 2001 a 2018. O método de Box-Jenkins foi aplicado para ajustar um modelo de predição SARIMA para incidência geral e por sexo (masculino e feminino) de LV para o período de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2023. Durante o período de 216 meses dessa série temporal, foram registrados 10.431 casos de LV no Maranhão, com uma média de 579 casos por ano. Em relação à faixa etária, houve maior registro no público pediátrico (0 a 14 anos). Houve predominância do sexo masculino, com 6437 casos (61,71%). Os valores do teste de Box-Pierce para incidência geral, sexo masculino e feminino reforçados pelos resultados do teste Ljung-Box sugerem que as autocorrelações de resíduos apresentam um comportamento de ruído branco. Para incidência mensal geral e por sexo masculino e feminino, os modelos SARIMA (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) e (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) foram os que mais se ajustaram aos dados, respectivamente. O modelo SARIMA se mostrou uma ferramenta adequada de previsão e análise da tendência de incidência da LV no Maranhão. A determinação da variação temporal e sua predição são determinantes no norteamento de medidas de intervenção em saúde.

Spatio-temporal analysis of the visceral leishmaniasis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil / Análise espacial-temporal da leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas

Visceral leishmaniosis is a neglected tropical disease. We evaluated the spatial distribution of cases of visceral leishmaniosis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. All cases of VL, registered by the health department, were analyzed and georeferenced. Results: Between 2008 and 2017, 97.1% of the municipalities presented sporadic classification of transmission. With temporal evolution, the incidence of cases of visceral leishmaniosis was concentrated in most municipalities in the microregion of Santana do Ipanema-AL. Space-time analysis, if considered, may promote the improvement of surveillance and control actions of visceral leishmaniosis.

A leishmaniose visceral é uma doença tropical negligenciada. Foram avaliadas a distribuição espacial dos casos de leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas. Todos os casos de LV, registrados pela secretaria de saúde, foram analisados e georreferenciados. Entre 2008 e 2017, 97,1% dos municípios apresentaram classificação esporádica de transmissão. Com a evolução temporal, a incidência de casos de leishmaniose visceral se concentrou na maioria dos municípios da microrregião de Santana do Ipanema-AL. A análise espaço-tempo, se considerada, pode promover o aprimoramento das ações de vigilância e controle da leishmaniose visceral.

Factors associated with survival in patients with visceral leishmaniasis treated at a reference hospital in northern Minas Gerais - Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a public health problem and is a relevant cause of death in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the 20-year survival and predictors of worse prognosis in patients with VL admitted to a reference hospital for the treatment of infectious diseases between 1995 and 2016 in northern Minas Gerais, an area of high endemicity for VL. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a hospital in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil. All patients with VL were evaluated over a 20-year period. The medical records were thoroughly analyzed. Cox regression analysis was performed to estimate factors associated with the probability of survival. Results: The cohort included 972 individuals, mostly male children <10 years old, from urban areas who presented at admission with the classic triad of fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and skin pallor. The mean hemoglobin level was 7.53 mg/dl. The mean interval between symptom onset and hospital admission was 40 days. The instituted therapies ranged from pentavalent antimonates to amphotericin, or both. The probability of survival was reduced to 78% one year after symptom onset. Hemoglobin levels and age were strongly associated with the probability of survival. Conclusions: Regardless of the mechanism underlying the reduction in hemoglobin and the non-modifiable factors of age, early initiation of drug treatment is the most appropriate strategy for increasing survival in patients with VL, which challenges health systems to reduce the interval between the onset of symptoms and hospital admission.

Trophic morphology and diet of the endangered fish Tlaloc hildebrandi (Cyprinodontiformes: Profundulidae) / Morfología trófica y dieta de Tlaloc hildebrandi (Cyprinodontiformes: Profundulidae), especie amenazada de extinción

Abstract Introduction: Tlaloc hildebrandi is a freshwater killifish, endemic to Southern Mexico and under threat of extinction; the knowledge of the trophic morphology and diet is needed by conservation managers. Objective: To analyse and describe the anatomy of the visceral skeleton, visceral musculature, digestive tract and its adjoining glands of T. hildebrandi; as well as its diet. Methods: We performed the trophic anatomy on 20 adult specimens of both sexes, through manual dissection; as well as gut content analysis in 60 individuals to describe the diet. Results: As notable characters of the visceral skeleton of T. hildebrandi we found the posterior notch of the premaxillary, the presence of the "coronoid cartilage", the tricuspid shape of the gill rakers of the first branchial arch, and the presence of the coronomeckelian bone; some outstanding characters of the visceral musculature are the origin of the retractor dorsalis muscle from the first four vertebral centra, and the division of the pharyngoclavicularis externus muscle into two sections. The notable characters of the digestive tube are the absence of stomach and pyloric caeca, and the presence of the "intestinal valve". Insects (IVI = 66.6 %) and ostracods (13 % IVI) were the dominant prey items of the Tlaloc hildebrandi diet; larvae and adults of the family Chironomidae were the most dominant insects in the diet (53 % IVI). Conclusions: The organization of the digestive system of T. hildebrandi corresponds to the general morphologic pattern of the Cyprinodontiformes; however, we register as new information for these fish, the presence of the "coronoid cartilage" and the "intestinal valve". The structures of the trophic morphology and the components of the diet, confirms us that T. hildebrandi is a carnivorous-insectivorous fish.

Resumen Introducción: Tlaloc hildebrandi es un killi de agua dulce, endémico del sur de México y bajo amenaza de extinción; el conocimiento de la morfología trófica y la dieta son necesarios para los administradores de la conservación. Objetivo: Analizar y describir la anatomía del esqueleto visceral, la musculatura visceral, el tracto digestivo y las glándulas adyacentes de T. hildebrandi; así como los componentes de su dieta. Métodos: Mediante la técnica del descarnado manual, realizamos la descripción de la anatomía trófica en 20 especímenes adultos de ambos sexos, y el análisis del contenido estomacal en 60 individuos para describir la dieta. Resultados: Como caracteres sobresalientes del esqueleto visceral de T. hildebrandi está la escotadura posterior del premaxilar, la presencia del "cartílago coronoides", la forma tricúspide de las branquiespinas del primer arco branquial y la presencia del hueso coronomeckeliano; como caracteres de la musculatura visceral sobresalen el origen del músculo retractor dorsalis de los cuatro primeros centros vertebrales, y la división del músculo pharyngoclavicularis externus en dos secciones. Los caracteres notables del tubo digestivo son la ausencia de estómago y de ciegos pilóricos y la presencia de la "válvula intestinal". Los insectos (IVI = 66.6 %) y ostrácodos (13 % IVI) fueron los componentes dominantes de la dieta de T. hildebrandi; particularmente las larvas y adultos de la familia Chironomidae fueron los insectos más abundantes en la dieta (53 % IVI). Conclusiones: La organización del sistema digestivo de T. hildebrandi corresponde al patrón morfológico general de los Cyprinodontiformes, sin embargo, se registra como nueva información para estos peces, la presencia del cartílago coronoides y la válvula intestinal. Las estructuras de la morfología trófica y los componentes de la dieta nos confirman que T. hildebrandi es un pez carnívoro-insectívoro.

Leishmaniose Visceral Humana: monitoramento epidemiológico e indicadores de vida nos municípios da Bahia, Brasil / Human Visceral Leishmaniasis: epidemiological monitoring and life indicators in the municipalities of Bahia, Brazil

O comportamento dos indicadores de vida dos casos notificados de Leishmaniose Visceral (LV) na Bahia e fatores sociodemográficos foram analisados. Trata-se de um estudo analítico e retrospectivo (2010 a 2020) que utilizou dados secundários do SINAN/DATASUS. Foram analisados dados de notificações, incidência, transmissão, estratificação de risco e indicadores de vida. No período foram registrados 3.573 casos de LV, maior incidência de 3,52 casos/100 mil habitantes e transmissão esporádica na maioria dos municípios. A Taxa de Incremento Anual (TIA) no Núcleo Regional de Saúde Sul e Leste apresentou valores significativos para a incidência e, para a letalidade, na Oeste, Leste e Centro-Norte. O Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) demonstrou que a população baiana infectada perdeu 10 anos de vida. A análise de aspectos individuais dos municípios permitiu identificar a necessidade de implementação de políticas públicas efetivas nessa esfera administrativa.

The behavior of life indicators of notified cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Bahia and sociodemographic factors were analyzed. The study analyzes the behavior of life indicators of notified cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Bahia and its correlation with sociodemographic factors. This is an analytical and retrospective study (2010 - 2020) that used the SINAN/DATASUS secondary database between. Were analyzed data on notifications, incidence, transmission, risk stratification and life indicators. During the period there were 3,573 cases of VL, highest incidence of 3.52 cases/100,000 inhabitants and sporadic transmission in most municipalities. The Annual Increment Rate (AIR) in the South and East health macro-regions showed significant values for incidence and lethality in the West, East and Center-North regions. Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) showed that the infected Bahian population lost 10 years of life. The analysis of individual aspects of the municipalities made it possible to identify the need to implement effective public policies at this administrative level.

Temporal trend in the incidence of human visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil / Tendência temporal da incidência de leishmaniose visceral humana no Brasil

Abstract It is an ecological study that analyzed the time trend of visceral leishmaniasis incidence rates in Brazil using segmented time regression by joinpoints. There was a decreasing incidence rate of this disease in the country with an average annual percent change (AAPC) of -5 (CI95%: -9.1; -0.6) and a reduction of 1.69 cases/100 thousand inhabitants in 2007, and 0.91/100 thousand inhabitants in 2020. The Central-West region showed the highest reduction percent (AAPC: -9.1; CI95%: -13.8; -4.3), followed by the Southeast region (AAPC: -8.7; -14.6; -2.5). The North and South regions showed the largest number of joinpoints in the time series. The highest incidences were recorded in the male population, however, stable (AAPC: 2.14; CI95%: -8.3; 0). In the age group analysis, the trend was decreasing for the groups from 0 to 4 years old (AAPC: -7.7; CI95%: -12.6; -2.4), 5 to 9 years old (AAPC: -7.3; CI95%: -13.6; -0,4) and 10 to 14 years old (AAPC: -5.5; CI95%: -10.3; -0.3). It was found that although Visceral Leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in Brazil, there was a decrease in its incidence rate from 2007 to 2020.

Resumo Trata-se de um estudo ecológico que analisou a tendência temporal das taxas de incidência de leishmaniose visceral no Brasil mediante regressão temporal segmentada por pontos de inflexão. Observou-se tendência de decréscimo na taxa de incidência dessa patologia no país, com variação variação percentual média anual (average annual percent change - AAPC) de -5 (IC95%: -9,1; -0,6) e redução de 1,69 casos/100 mil habitantes em 2007, para 0,91/100 mil habitantes em 2020. A região Centro-Oeste apresentou a maior redução do AAPC (AAPC: -9,1; IC95%: -13,8; -4,3), seguida da região Sudeste (AAPC: -8,7; -14,6; -2,5). As regiões Norte e Sul apresentaram o maior número de pontos de inflexão (joinpoint) na série temporal. As maiores incidências foram registradas na população masculina, porém com tendência estacionária (AAPC: 2,14; IC95%: -8,3; 0). Na análise por faixa etária, a tendência foi decrescente nos grupos de 0 a 4 anos (AAPC: -7,7; IC95%: -12,6; -2,4), 5 a 9 anos (AAPC: -7,3; IC95%: -13,6; -0,4) e de 10 a 14 anos (AAPC: -5,5; IC95%: -10,3; -0,3). Verificou-se que, apesar de a leishmaniose visceral se tratar de uma doença endêmica no Brasil, houve declínio na sua taxa de incidência no período de 2007 a 2020.

Perfil epidemiológico das notificações de leishmaniose no estado de Pernambuco no Brasil de 2015-2019 / Epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis notifications in the Pernambuco state in Brazil from 2015-2019

Aqui, fornecemos uma análise epidemiológica da leishmaniose em Pernambuco, Brasil, de 2015 a 2019. Nossos resultados revelaram 1.705 casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana-LTA e 859 casos de leishmaniose visceral-LV. LV e LTA afetam crianças de 1 a 4 anos (23% e 3,2% dos casos, respectivamente) e adultos de 20 a 39 anos (26% e 28%, respectivamente), principalmente mulheres. O maior percentual (54,6%) de casos de LV foi encontrado na área urbana, enquanto LTA ocorreu principalmente na área rural (63,2%). Indivíduos com maior escolaridade foram menos acometidos pela leishmaniose e dados de prognóstico revelaram boas chances de cura clínica, mas óbitos ainda são registrados. Esses dados mostram que ações preventivas de saúde devem ser desenvolvidas para impedir a disseminação da leishmaniose, reduzir seu impacto na saúde pública e restaurar a qualidade de vida da população. Este estudo pode ser útil na elaboração de estratégias para minimizar os impactos da leishmaniose.

Here, we provide an epidemiological analysis of leishmaniasis in Pernambuco, Brazil, from 2015 to 2019. Our results revealed 1,705 of American cutaneous leishmaniasis-ACL and 859 cases of visceral leishmaniasis-VL. VL and ACL affect children aged 1­4 years (23% and 3.2% of all cases, respectively) and adults aged 20­39 years (26% and 28%, respectively), mainly women. The highest percentage (54.6%) of VL cases was found in urban areas, while ACL occurred mainly in rural areas (63.2%). Individuals with a higher level of education were less affected by leishmaniasis and data on prognosis revealed good chances of clinical cure, but deaths are still recorded. These data show that preventive health actions must be developed to hinder leishmaniasis spread, reduce its impact on public health, and restore the population's life quality. This study can be useful in further elaboration of strategies to minimize leishmaniasis impacts.

Metabolic syndrome and Visceral Adiposity Index in non-functional adrenal adenomas

ABSTRACT Objective: We aimed to identify metabolic dysfunction in non-functioning adrenal adenomas (NFAAs) and Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) predictability in the practical estimation of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in NFAAs. Subjects and methods: 134 NFAA patients and 68 control subjects matched for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) were included in the study. After physical, biochemical, and endocrine evaluation, IDF and NCEP ATP III criteria were used to determine MetS. HOMA-IR and VAI were calculated for both study group subjects. Results: MetS was significantly higher in the NFAA patients. The incidence of MetS by IDF and NCEP criteria was 52.9%,48.5% in the NFAI and 32.3%,30.8% in the control group (p < 0.01, p = 0.02). The risk of MetS was increased in NFAA (75.6 vs. 24.4%, p = 0.017, OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.06-1.68). Glucose, HOMA IR, hypertension, and VAI were significantly increased in NFAA patients. The risk of MetS was independently associated with high VAI (79.2 vs. 20.8%, p = 0.001, OR = 2.22; 95% CI = 1.70-2.91). Conclusion: MetS, insulin resistance, and VAI are more prevalant in NFAA patients than in healthy individuals. VAI can be used with high specificity to estimate MetS in NFAA patients.

Metronidazole: A culprit to balance and speech

In a country like India, oral metronidazole is the commonly prescribed drug of choice for entities such as amebiasis and visceral abscesses. Oral such cases, it is usually well tolerated and safe but can cause serious neurological adverse events. Peripheral neuropathy commonly encounters in practice but central nervous system toxicity is also well documented as it crosses the blood–brain barrier easily. Neurological toxicity of metronidazole may be due to prolonged administration, high doses, or high cumulative doses. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain is the modality of choice to evaluate brain involvement. In the brain, the splenium of the corpus callosum, dentate nucleus of the cerebellum, and posterior pons involvement are commonly seen and diagnostic. Here, we have an interesting case report of a patient who was on oral metronidazole treatment for his large liver abscess, presenting with a complaint of neurological symptoms of unsteady gait, vertigo, dysdiadochokinesia, and difficulty in speech. Moreover, thus suspected as metronidazole drug toxicity and further investigated for the same, and MRI typically shows cerebellar and posterior corpus callosal involvement

Tratamiento endovascular de aneurismas de arterias viscerales. Experiencia de 10 años en un solo centro / Endovascular treatment of visceral artery aneurysms. A single center 10-year experience

RESUMEN Antecedentes : los aneurismas de arterias viscerales (AAV) tienen una frecuencia baja (0,1 a 2%). Hasta un 25% puede presentarse como rotura, con una alta mortalidad (hasta 70%). La terapia endovascular ha ganado terreno y se recomienda como primera opción según las últimas guías. Hoy en día, es posible adaptarse a casi cualquier anatomía utilizando tecnología cerebral. Objetivo : describir la experiencia y enfoque en el manejo endovascular de AAV, con resultados a corto, mediano y largo plazo. Material y métodos : llevamos a cabo una evaluación retrospectiva de pacientes tratados por AAV verdaderos por vía endovascular en un solo centro entre 2010 y 2020, con un seguimiento mínimo de 6 meses. Resultados : analizamos 19 procedimientos en 18 pacientes (9 hombres y 9 mujeres). La edad promedio fue 61,9 años; el promedio de tiempo de internación fue 1,94 días y el promedio de seguimiento de 40 meses. La arteria más involucrada fue la esplénica (n = 9, 50%). El tamaño aneurismático promedio fue 30,1 mm. La estrategia terapéutica más utilizada fue colocación de diversor de flujo (n = 8, 42,1%). Dos pacientes fueron reintervenidos (11,1%). Las tasas de exclusión completa fueron del 47,4%, 68,4% y 94,7% a los 3, 6 y 12 meses, respectivamente. No hubo casos de mortalidad a 30 días ni mortalidad relacionada con el aneurisma durante el seguimiento. Conclusión : el tratamiento endovascular de los AAV es seguro y eficaz. Sin embargo, se debe contar con la tecnología adecuada, para la planificación preoperatoria y el tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Background : the prevalence of visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) is low (0.1 to 2%). Up to 25% may present as rupture which is associated with high mortality (up to 70%). Endovascular treatment has gained ground and is even considered the first option according to the most recent recommendations. Nowadays, almost any anatomy can be approached with endovascular techniques used to treat intracranial aneurysms. Objective : the aim of our study was to describe the experience and approach for the endovascular management of VAAs with short-, mid-, and long-term results. Material and methods : we conducted a retrospective evaluation of patients with true VAAs undergoing endovascular treatment in a single center between 2010 and 2020 who were followed up for a minimum of 6 months. Results : we analyzed 19 procedures in 18 patients (9 men and 9 women). Mean age was 61.9 years; mean length of hospital stay was 1.94 days and mean follow-up was 40 months. The splenic artery was the vessel most affected (n = 9, 50%). Mean aneurysm size was 30.1 mm. Flow diversion was the strategy most used (n = 8, 42.1%). Two patients required reintervention (11%). Complete exclusion rate was 38.4%, 47.4%, 68.4% and 94.7% at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. There were no cases of mortality within the first 30 days and no aneurysm-related mortality during the follow-up period. Conclusion : endovascular treatment of VAAs is a safe and efficient strategy but requires adequate technology for preoperative planning and treatment.

Avaliação da acurácia da informação em sites sobre leishmaniose visceral: uma estratégia de enfrentamento da desordem informacional / Evaluation of the accuracy of the information on websites about visceral leishmaniasis: a strategy for countering information disorder

RESUMO As novas Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação estão cada vez mais presentes no cotidiano de pessoas e instituições em nível global. As informações que elas veiculam podem estar desatualizadas, incompletas, incorretas ou deliberadamente mentirosas. Vive-se um contexto de 'desordem informacional'. Na saúde, uma informação como essa pode causar dano ao indivíduo e à sociedade. Algumas alternativas têm sido apresentadas para enfrentar esse problema. Este artigo discute como a avaliação da qualidade da informação sobre saúde on-line e a certificação de sites podem servir para o enfrentamento da 'desordem informacional'. Ele apresenta uma metodologia de avaliação da acurácia da informação on-line seguindo as informações atualizadas e cientificamente comprovadas pela medicina baseada em evidências. Analisa o caso da leishmaniose visceral: uma das doenças negligenciadas mais prevalentes no mundo. Seguindo esse método, foi construída uma ferramenta com indicadores e foram avaliados sites de organizações não governamentais internacionais e dos Ministérios da Saúde do Brasil e da Índia, países nos quais a leishmaniose visceral é endêmica e que concentram grande parte dos casos mundiais da doença. Os resultados revelam que nenhum dos sites avaliados obteve mais de 50% de conformidade com os indicadores utilizados.

ABSTRACT New Information and Communication Technologies are increasingly present in the daily lives of people and institutions globally. The information they convey may need to be updated, complete, correct, or deliberately untrue. We live in a context of information mayhem. Health-related information like this can harm individuals and society. Some alternatives have been put forward to address this issue. This article discusses how online health information quality assessment and website certification can serve in confronting information disorder. It presents a methodology for assessing the accuracy of online information following the updated and scientifically proven information from evidence-based medicine. It analyzes the case of visceral leishmaniasis: one of the most prevalent neglected diseases in the world. Following this method, a tool with indicators was built, and the websites of international non-governmental organizations and the Ministries of Health of Brazil and India were evaluated. The results show that all the evaluated websites obtained at most 50% compliance with the indicators used.

Pseudo-obstruction, an infrequent Lupus manifestation: A case report

Gastrointestinal involvement in SLE has been reported in up to 50%, generally secondary to the adverse effects of treatment. Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is caused by hypomotility related to ineffective propulsion. The case of a 51-year-old patient with intestinal obstruction is presented. She was taken to surgical management due to suspicion of adhesions, with a stationary clinical course; the control tomography documented loop dilation and bilateral hydroureteronephrosis, associated with markers of lupus activity. It was managed as an intestinal pseudo-obstruction due to SLE with resolution of her symptoms. High diagnostic suspicion results in timely treatment and the reduction of complications.

El compromiso gastrointestinal en lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) ha sido reportado hasta en un 50%, generalmente secundario a los efectos adversos del tratamiento. La pseudoobstrucción intestinal es causada por hipomotilidad relacionada con una propulsión inefectiva. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 51 arios, con obstrucción intestinal por sospecha de bridas, que fue llevada a manejo quirúrgico y tuvo una evolución clínica estacionaria. La tomografía de control documentó dilatación de asas e hidroureteronefrosis bilateral, en tanto que los paraclínicos mostraron actividad lúpica. Se manejó como una pseudoobstrucción intestinal por LES con resolución del cuadro. La alta sospecha diagnóstica favorece el tratamiento oportuno y la disminución de las complicaciones.

The Relationship between Bone Mineral Densitometry and Visceral Adiposity Index in Postmenopausal Women / A relação entre a densitometria mineral óssea e o índice de adiposidade visceral em mulheres na pós-menopausa

Abstract Objective It was aimed to compare visceral adiposity index (VAI) levels in patients with normal bone mineral density (BMD), osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Methods One hundred twenty postmenopausal women (40 with normal BMD, 40 with osteopenia, and 40 with osteoporosis) between the ages of 50 to 70 years were included in the study. For females, the VAI was calculated using the formula (waist circumference [WC]/[36.58 + (1.89 x body mass index (BMI))]) x (1.52/High-density lipoprotein [HDL]-cholesterol [mmol/L]) x (triglyceride [TG]/0.81 [mmol/L]). Results The time of menopause from the beginning was similar in all groups. Waist circumference was found to be higher in those with normal BMD than in the osteopenic and osteoporotic groups (p = 0.018 and p < 0.001, respectively), and it was also higher in the osteopenic group than in the osteoporotic group (p = 0.003). Height and body weight, BMI, blood pressure, insulin, glucose, HDL-cholesterol, and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels were similar in all groups. Triglyceride levels were found to be higher in the normal BMD group, compared with the osteoporotic group (p = 0.005). The level of VAI was detected as higher in those with normal BMD, compared with the women with osteoporosis (p = 0.002). Additionally, the correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) spine T-scores, WC, VAI, and a negative correlation between DXA spine T-scores and age. Conclusion In our study, we found higher VAI levels in those with normal BMD, compared with women with osteoporosis. We consider that further studies with a larger sample size will be beneficial in elucidating the entity.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo foi comparar os níveis de índice de adiposidade visceral (IVA) em pacientes com densidade mineral óssea (DMO) normal osteopenia e osteoporose. Métodos Cento e vinte mulheres na pós-menopausa (40 com DMO normal 40 com osteopenia e 40 com osteoporose) com idades entre 50 e 70 anos foram incluídas no estudo. Para o sexo feminino o VAI foi calculado pela fórmula (circunferência da cintura [CC]/[36 58 + (1 89 x índice de massa corporal (IMC))]) x (1 52/lipoproteína de alta densidade [HDL]-colesterol [mmol/L]) x (triglicerídeo [TG]/0 81 [mmol/L]). Resultados O tempo de menopausa desde o início foi semelhante em todos os grupos. A circunferência da cintura foi maior naqueles com DMO normal do que nos grupos osteopênicos e osteoporóticos (p = 0 018 e p < 0 001 respectivamente) e também foi maior no grupo osteopênico do que no grupo osteoporótico (p = 0 003) . Altura e peso corporal IMC pressão arterial insulina glicose HDL-colesterol e os níveis de avaliação do modelo de homeostase-resistência à insulina (HOMA-IR) foram semelhantes em todos os grupos. Os níveis de triglicerídeos foram maiores no grupo DMO normal em comparação com o grupo osteoporótico (p = 0 005). O nível de VAI foi detectado como maior naquelas com DMO normal em comparação com as mulheres com osteoporose (p = 0 002). Além disso a análise de correlação mostrou uma correlação positiva entre a absorciometria de raios-X de dupla energia (DXA) nas pontuações T da coluna CC VAI e uma correlação negativa entre as pontuações T da coluna DXA e a idade. Conclusão Em nosso estudo encontramos níveis mais elevados de VAI naquelas com DMO normal em comparação com mulheres com osteoporose. Consideramos que novos estudos com maior tamanho amostral serão benéficos na elucidação da entidade.

Leishmaniasis visceral. Presentación de un caso y revisión de la entidade

La leishmania la describieron Leishman y Donovan en 1903, al aislar el parásito del bazo de las personas afectadas. La leishmaniasis es una enfermedad tropical y subtropical, causada por un protozoo intracelular del género Leishmania y transmitida a los humanos por la picadura de vectores Lutzomyias infectadas. Tiene como reservorios a los perros, roedores, lobos, zorros y el humano como huésped incidental. Clínicamente la leishmaniasis puede clasificarse en tres formas principales: leishmaniasis cutánea (LC), localizada (LCL) o difusa (LCD), leishmaniasis destructiva mucocutánea (LMC) y leishmaniasis visceral (LV o Kala-Azar). La enfermedad se manifiesta clínicamente con la invasión del parásito y daño en funcionamiento de órganos vitales como son la médula ósea, el hígado y el bazo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino adolescente de 11 anos de edad de zona rural que presenta un cuadro clínico de aumento de volumen de abdomen superior, palidez marcada, decaimento, con hepato y esplenomegalia atendido en Bahía, Brasil en 2018 con diagnóstico de leishmaniasis. Se describe la clínica, médios diagnósticos y tratamiento.

Leishmania was described by Leishman and Donovan in 1903, when the parasite was isolated from the spleen of affected people. Leishmaniasis is a tropical and subtropical disease, caused by an intracellular protozoan of the genus Leishmania and transmitted to humans by the bite of infected Lutzomyia vectors. It has as reservoirs dogs, rodents, wolves, foxes and humans as incidental hosts. Clinically, leishmaniasis can be classified into three main forms: cutaneous (LC), localized (LCL) or diffuse (LCD) leishmaniasis, mucocutaneous destructive leishmaniasis (CML), and visceral leishmaniasis (VL or Kala-Azar). The disease manifests clinically with the invasion of the parasite and damage to the functioning of vital organs such as the bone marrow, liver and spleen.We present the case of an 11-year-old adolescent male patient from rural areas who presented a clinical picture of increased volume of the upper abdomen, marked pallor, decay, with hepato and splenomegaly treated in Bahia, Brazil in 2018 with a diagnosis of leishmaniasis. The clinic, diagnostic methods and treatment are described.

A leishmania foi descrita por Leishman e Donovan em 1903, quando o parasita foi isolado do baço das pessoas afetadas. A leishmaniose é uma doença tropical e subtropical, causada por um protozoário intracelular do gênero Leishmania e transmitida aos seres humanos pela picada de vetores de Lutzomyia infectados. Tem como reservatórios cães, roedores, lobos, raposas e humanos como hospedeiros incidentais. Clinicamente, a leishmaniose pode ser classificada em três formas principais: leishmaniose cutânea (LCL), localizada (LCL) ou difusa (LCD), leishmaniose mucocutânea destrutiva (LMC) e leishmaniose visceral (LV ou Kala-Azar). A doença se manifesta clinicamente com a invasão do parasita e danos ao funcionamento de órgãos vitais, como a medula óssea, fígado e baço.Apresentamos o caso de um adolescente de 11 anos, do sexo masculino, de áreas rurais, que apresentou quadro clínico de aumento do volume do abdome superior, palidez acentuada, cárie, com hepato e esplenomegalia tratado na Bahia, Brasil, em 2018, com diagnóstico de leishmaniose. A clínica, os métodos de diagnóstico e o tratamento são descritos.

What else in times of COVID-19? The role of minimally invasive autopsy for the differential diagnosis of acute respiratory failure in a case of kala-azar

ABSTRACT Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic vector-borne zoonotic disease caused by trypanosomatids, considered endemic in 98 countries, mainly associated with poverty. About 50,000-90,000 cases of VL occur annually worldwide, and Brazil has the second largest number of cases in the world. The clinical picture of VL is fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and pancytopenia, progressing to death in 90% of cases due to secondary infections and multi-organ failure, if left untreated. We describe the case of a 25-year-old female who lived in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo, who had recently taken touristic trips to several rural areas in Southeastern Brazil and was diagnosed post-mortem. During the hospitalization in a hospital reference for the treatment of COVID-19, the patient developed acute respiratory failure, with chest radiographic changes, and died due to refractory shock. The ultrasound-guided minimally invasive autopsy diagnosed VL (macrophages containing amastigote forms of Leishmania in the spleen, liver and bone marrow), as well as pneumonia and bloodstream infection by gram-negative bacilli.

Evaluation of ultrasonographic approaches aimed at determining distinct abdominal adipose tissue depots

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze different anatomical sites in the abdominal region, in order to determine the positional parameter that identifies a higher level of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and confers a greater cardiometabolic risk. Materials and methods: This is a methodological study in which VAT was evaluated by ultrasonography (USG) in three anatomical sites in the abdomen, while the abdominal circumference (AC) was measured using seven different protocols. Additionally, the glycemic and lipid profile, C-reactive protein, and the presence of systemic arterial hypertension were evaluated. Results: One hundred and six individuals with an average age of 42 (36.8-46.2) years were included. The evaluation of the calibration of the ultrasound procedure for the analysis of VAT by intra- and inter-evaluators showed high reproducibility. The pattern of abdominal fat distribution differed between sexes, with higher mean VAT in males (p < 0.05) and higher mean SAT (subcutaneous adipose tissue) in females (p < 0.005). In the abdominal scan applied to women, higher levels of VAT and lower levels of SAT were observed in the narrower waist region, between the iliac crest and the last rib (p < 0.001). In males, the profile of adipose disposition along the abdomen was uniform (p > 0.05). Correlations between VAT measured by USG and cardiometabolic parameters were relatively stronger in the upper abdomen (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Women accumulate more VAT in the narrower waist region, while men accumulate VAT uniformly across the abdomen. There was relative superiority in predicting cardiometabolic risk in the upper abdomen for both sexes.

Blood parasite load by qPCR as therapeutic monitoring in visceral leishmaniasis patients in Brazil: a case series study

ABSTRACT Background: This study aimed to describe the kinetics of Leishmania parasite load determined using kinetoplast DNA (kDNA)-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients. Methods: Parasite load in blood was assessed by qPCR at five time points, up to 12 months post-diagnosis. Sixteen patients were followed up. Results: A significant reduction in the parasite load was observed after treatment (P < 0.0001). One patient had an increased parasite load 3 months post-treatment and relapsed clinically at month six. Conclusions: We have described the use of kDNA-based qPCR in the post-treatment follow-up of VL cases.