Problematic usage, safety knowledge, and dependency challenges of mobile phones among late adolescents in southern India: a mixed-methods study

Background: Globally, the number of people using mobile phones is estimated to be around 8.1 billion, with the majority being youths. Therefore, our aim was to assess problematic mobile phone use among late adolescents. Methods: We conducted an exploratory mixed-method study among selected schools in Puducherry, South India, from September to October 2019. Two focus group discussions (FGDs) were held among students exhibiting high problematic mobile phone use. Results: A total of 498 students were enrolled, with a mean (SD) age of 14.3 (1.4) years, and more than half were male. Approximately 77% reported using mobile phones, with around 30% spending more than one hour per day on mobile use. Of the total, 23% (95% CI 19.3-26.8) exhibited problematic mobile phone use. Factors significantly associated with problematic use included the student's level of education (APR= 5.6, 95% CI 1.3 – 24.7), parents' occupations (APR= 3.8, 95% CI 1.2 – 12.2), and hours spent on mobile phones (APR= 2.1, 95% CI 1.3 – 3.4). Only 50% were aware that increased mobile phone use is harmful. Qualitative interviews provided significant insights into smartphone dependency and challenges faced by students. Conclusions: There is a pressing need for comprehensive initiatives to promote responsible smartphone use.

Knowledge, attitude and practice of women towards self breast examination in the rural field practice area of IGGMC, Nagpur, Maharashtra

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among females. In India, breast cancer is the top most cancer with about 13.6% new cases diagnosed in 2020. Current knowledge of the aetiology of breast cancer offers little prospect of primary prevention. So secondary prevention like breast screening, which include self breast examination have to be done. The present study was designed to determine the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding BSE among women aged 18 years and above. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 241 females above 18 years of age in rural health care training centre affiliated to IGGMC, Nagpur. All consecutive participants were interviewed in person using a predesigned and pre-tested proforma. SPSS Version 20 was used to analyse the data collected. Results: It was seen that the mean age of participants was 29.98±7.382 years The majority of participants were belonged to the Hindu religion (63.9%) and nuclear family (82.57%). Majority of participants (68.05%) were having poor knowledge about BSE, most of the participants were having good attitude (51.45%), majority of participants (53.11%) were having poor practice to BSE. Conclusions: BSE is one of the most effective preventive health behaviour for the early detection of breast cancer. In this study, it is evident that knowledge about BSE is low. This indicate that there is a need for Health education about breast cancer and BSE among the rural population of India to improve the KAP about BSE for early detection and better survival.

Morbidity profiling of patients treated at Ayothidoss Pandithar Hospital of the National Institute of Siddha from 2004 to 2023 in Tamil Nadu, India

Background: Understanding the patient flow for health-seeking patterns and utilization of AYUSH care in India has been considered essential for a greater emphasis on mainstreaming and blending into the existing healthcare systems. This study examines the morbidity profiling of patients reporting to Ayothidoss Pandithar Hospital (APH) of the National Institute of Siddha (NIS), Chennai. Methods: The study included new and old/revisit patients who attended the APH, Outpatient Department (OPD), special OPD, and Inpatient Department (IPD) from October 2004 to December 2023. Results: Through OPD and IPD, APH has treated 98,94,373 cases and 7,61,754 cases, respectively. The average number of cases treated per day at OPD was 1484, and 115 in IPD. Men were higher in OPD and IPD. The more common diseases treated during 2012-2023 at OPD were Madhumegam (diabetes mellitus) 13% and Azhal keelvayu (osteoarthritis) 12% whereas, in IPD, it was Thandagavatham (lumbar spondylosis) 9.5% and Pakkavatham (hemiplegia) 9.4%. At APH, 9 X-ray investigations, 44 Varmam therapies, 37 Thokkanam therapies, 497 pathological, 433 biochemical investigations, and 38 microbiological tests were performed each day. Conclusions: This study reveals the scope of the Siddha system of Medicine in managing Musculoskeletal disorders. The patient data generated at APH would enhance the National Health Policy (NHP) objective of strengthening and prioritizing health services' importance, promoting good health, and creating guidelines for high-quality care.

Heart rate lowering agents in acute coronary syndrome

Background: Heart rate is a key indicator of cardiovascular mortality, with ACS having the highest mortality risk when heart rate is elevated. With a target heart rate of <70 bpm, it is crucial to evaluate the effects of medications that lowers heart rate. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 45 patients with ACS were studied, and it was determined whether or not the patients' heart rates at discharge from the hospital were within goal range. Additionally, we looked at demographics, drug-related issues, vitals and then statistical tests were performed. Results: The demographic of 45 patients showed mean adult age was 47 years and most observed ACS was STEMI (53.3%). Patients prescribed with HRLA showed lower mean HR, SBP and DBP at discharge. Evaluated Optimal HR ?70 bpm with HRLA therapy at discharge of the inpatients was achieved in 26.6% (63.5±5.5 bpm). Conclusions: The current study showed HRLA therapy effectively reduced the heart rate at hospital discharge, but despite being on HRLA only 1/4th of patients achieved the optimal heart rate.

A case report on anti-tubercular agent induced hepatotoxicity

Hepatotoxicity is the serious adverse effect of tuberculosis treatment and it leads to the discontinuation of Anti-tubercular agent (ATT) causing increased drug resistance, morbidity and mortality. We report a 69 years old male patient with ATT induced hepatotoxicity.

Study of formation of dorsal venous arch of the hand in both sexes

Background: The dorsal venous arch (DVA) is a superficial venous network of the hand. It is formed by the union of four dorsal metacarpal veins in the middle of the dorsum of the hand. Medially and laterally the dorsal venous arch continues as basilic and cephalic veins respectively. Commonly, these veins are chosen for intravenous procedures, the most prominent being the dorsal metacarpal veins. The present study aims to study the different types of formation of dorsal venous arch in both the sexes. Methods: 100 hands of voluntary participants were studied (50 male hands, 50 female hands) in St Peter’s Medical College, Hospital and Research Institute, Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The rubber tourniquet was tied 1 hand breadth above the wrist to make the veins prominent and observed the pattern of formation of DVA with laterality and sex being noted. Results: In the present study, the formation of dorsal venous arch, commonly type 2 pattern in males and type 1 pattern in females were observed. The prominent venous pattern was observed in males and on the lateral side of the dorsal metacarpal veins. Conclusions: The present study carried out to enlighten the vascular surgeons, postgraduates, interns, paramedics and nurses regarding the knowledge of different types of the formation of dorsal venous arch of hand, so that hassle free procedures can be carried out on these superficial veins of hands at the time of routine and emergency situations.

Knowledge, attitude and perceived barriers to telemedicine among medical professionals: a cross sectional study

Background: Telemedicine, an evolving technology in India's healthcare sector, offers promising avenues for improving healthcare accessibility and delivery. Its successful implementation relies on several factors, including the comprehension of its concepts, skill acquisition, attitude toward technology, and conducive work environments among healthcare professionals. Despite the pressing need for enhanced healthcare in developing countries like India, telemedicine remains more advanced in developed nations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers to telemedicine among medical professionals at government medical college Trivandrum and KIMS health Trivandrum. Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 150 medical professionals across various departments was conducted using a structured questionnaire via the Kobo toolbox, an online survey tool. The collected data were analyzed to assess the understanding of telemedicine, attitudes toward its adoption, and barriers encountered by respondents. Results: The analysis revealed that while a commendable 35.3% of respondents exhibited a good understanding of telemedicine, the majority 64.7% lacked sufficient knowledge in this domain. However, there was a positive disposition towards telemedicine adoption, with 64.7% displaying strong positive attitudes, 24.7% expressing moderate attitudes, and 10.7% indicating lower inclinations. Notably, human resource availability emerged as the most prevalent barrier, while sustainable practices were cited least frequently. Conclusions: While many medical professionals showed support for telemedicine, their knowledge was limited, and the study identified multiple barriers to its adoption. Urgent action is needed to narrow the disparity between telemedicine's potential and its actual use in India's healthcare system.

The access carried out in oral health services post-COVID-19 pandemic: a temporal analysis of the SIA-SUS in Jaboatão dos Guararapes

Background: Aim of the study was to evaluate the access provided, represented by the use of dental services, by users of the unified health system (SUS), in Jaboatão dos Guararapes (PE), during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Time series analysis of data on dental activities and procedures carried out by dentists registered in the SUS ambulatory information system (SIA-SUS), between January and December, from 2013 to 2022, as a way of characterizing the access carried out, a characteristic of use of services. Results: The data reveal that there was a reduction in the supply of dental care in all categories during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the first two years: 2020 and 2021. Conclusions: The data analyzed corroborate the perception that the restrictions imposed on care dental services offered by the unified health system had a negative impact on health services in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes (PE).

Secondary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to oral health: an integrative review

The damage resulting from the pandemic will be lasting, at all levels of health care, with a strong influence on the use of dental services. This integrative review aims to identify the secondary impacts of covid-19 on access to oral health. Data were collected from SciELO, PubMed/Medline; BVS/Lilacs. The selection of studies initially occurred by reading the titles and abstracts, then selecting the articles that should be read in full. Snowball strategy was used from the selected studies. In total 388 studies were collected and 24 analyzed. After reading the texts in full, it was possible to observe that they are divided into themes: dental problems faced by users of health systems during the pandemic; immediate solutions to face the great demand for dental care; projections of public policy need for the future. Restrictions imposed on dental care had a negative impact on health services, mainly affecting the poorest segments of the population. Expanding access to dental treatments and water fluoridation are urgent measures that must be implemented, in addition to the application of public policies aimed at oral health. or, such as sitting time throughout the day, in addition to the importance to increase the physical activity pattern.

Assessment of minimum inhibitory concentration to vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates by antibiotic gradient strips

Background: Staphylococcus aureus infections are one of the most common and serious hospital-acquired infections seen in developing countries. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important human pathogen and normally colonized in body parts including skin, nose, perineum and throat. MRSA is resistant not only to all ?-lactam groups but also other antibiotics including aminoglycosides, tetracycline and macrolides. In the present study the efficacy of agents used in the management of MRSA infections was determined by antibiotic gradient testing. Methods: A total of 60 clinical isolates of MRSA strains were collected from various diagnostic labs in central Kerala. Clinical isolates were reconfirmed as MRSA by gram staining, yellow-coloured colonies on mannitol salt Agar (MSA). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by disc diffusion method as recommended by CLSI guidelines. S. aureus isolates resistant to cefoxitin (30 µg) was identified as MRSA. Antibiotic gradient testing was performed to determine the MIC of vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin against MRSA isolates. Results: All the 60 MRSA isolates tested were sensitive to vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin (100%) and none of the MRSA isolates show resistance. Conclusions: Results of present study indicates that these agents may be used alongside vancomycin in management of infection caused by MRSA.

The landscape of biomedical research funding in Brazil: a current overview

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this narrative review is to discuss the current state of research funding in Brazil. Materials and Methods: This study is based on the most recent edition of the course Funding for Research and Innovation in the University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine which was a three-day course with 12 hours of instruction. The course brought together leading experts in the field to comprehensively discuss the current state of research funding in Brazil. Each speaker provided a presentation on a specific topic related to research funding. After the workshop, speakers assembled relevant topics in this manuscript. Results: collaborative research is critical for securing research funding. It optimizes proposal competitiveness, amplifies societal impact, and manages risks effectively. As such, fostering and supporting these collaborations is paramount for both researchers and funding agencies. To maintain the highest integrity in research, investigators involved in these collaborations must disclose any relationships that could potentially influence the outcomes or interpretation of their projects. Conclusions: In Brazil, the mainstay of research funding stems from public entities, with agencies such as CNPq, CAPES, and state bodies like FAPESP, FAPERJ, FAPEMIG and others at the forefront. Concurrently, industry funding offers viable pathways, especially through industry-sponsored studies, investigator-led projects, and collaborative initiatives. The Brazilian funding landscape is further enriched by innovative platforms, including crowdfunding and the contributions of institutions like the Serrapilheira Institute. Internationally, esteemed organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation stand out as potential funders.

Valproic acid and ivermectin increase GABA levels to improve the viability of skin flaps in rats

Background: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a nonproteinogenic amino acid known as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Ivermectin (IVM) and valproic acid (VA), both increase GABA levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of VA and IVM on the viability of extended random-pattern skin flaps in Wistar rats and their GABA-dependent mechanisms. Methods: This experimental study used 32 Wistar rats that underwent surgery to have caudally based extended random-pattern skin flaps divided into four distinct groups. In the first group, 0.05 mg/kg IVM was administered via intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection 30 minutes (min) prior to elevating the flap. The second group was administered 100 mg/kg VA by i.p. injection 60 min prior to elevating the flap. The third group was administered VA 100 mg/kg followed by IVM 0.05 mg/kg injected (i.p.) 60 min and 30 min prior to flap elevation, respectively. The fourth group was used as a control. After 7 days, the percentage of flap viability was measured, and tissue sampling was performed to examine GABA levels. Results: It was found that the highest viability rate was in the group administered VA combined with IVM (93.98%) compared to all other groups (p<0.001). The highest GABA levels in the tissue were observed in the group administered VA combined with IVM (284.91 nmol/l) compared to all other groups (p<0.001). Conclusions: IVM in combination with VA improves the viability of extended random-pattern skin flaps by increasing GABA levels.

Understanding perspectives of asthma among pulmonologists in Indian settings: results from a questionnaire-based survey

Background: Asthma is associated with high morbidity and mortality in India. This survey was undertaken to explore the perspectives of pulmonologists towards in-clinic management of patients with asthma. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey of pulmonologists conducted across India. It was formulated to provide unbiased observations of real-world clinical practice focusing on methods of diagnosis of asthma and its treatment preferences. Results: The participants included 805 pulmonologists, with the majority primarily treating patients with asthma (62%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (19%) and allergic rhinitis (19%). More than 86% of pulmonologists consider clinical symptoms, history of childhood asthma, family history, and chronic allergic rhinitis for initial diagnosis. About 19-23% prefer spirometry alone or in combination with family history for confirmation of asthma. The preferred inhaled corticosteroids-long-acting bronchodilator (ICS-LABA) combination was budesonide-formoterol amongst 83% of pulmonologists. For both dry powder inhaler (DPI) and metered dose inhaler (MDI) devices, fine particle fraction per cent and delivered dose were ranked as the two most important attributes. Conclusions: Asthma is the most prevalent diagnosis among patients treated by pulmonologists on the basis of clinical presentation and medical history. The most commonly used pharmacotherapy for the treatment of asthma comprises ICS-LABA, with budesonide-formoterol being the preferred combination. Fine particle fraction per cent and magnitude of delivered dose influence the choice of asthma inhaler prescriptions the most.

Oral glutamine dipeptide or oral glutamine free amino acid reduces burned injury progression in rats / O dipeptídeo de glutamina oral ou aminoácido livre de glutamina oral reduz a progressão da lesão por queimadura em ratos

Abstract This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Glutamine, as a dipeptide or a free amino acid form, on the progression of burn injuries in rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were burned with a comb metal plate heated in boiling water (98 °C) for three minutes, creating four rectangular full-thickness burn areas separated by three unburned interspaces (zone of stasis) in both dorsum sides. The animals were randomized into three groups (n=10): saline solution (G1-Control) and treated groups that orally received Glutamine as dipeptide (G2-Dip) or free amino acid (G3-FreeAA). Two and seven days after burn injury, lesions were photographed for unburned interspaces necrosis evolution assessment. Seven days after injury, glutathione seric was measured and histopathological analysis was performed. By photographs, there was a significant reduction in necrosis progression in G3-Free-AA between days two and seven. Histopathological analysis at day 7 showed a significantly higher stasis zone without necrosis and a higher number of fibroblasts in G2-Dip and G3-FreeAA compared with G1-Control. Also, glutathione serum dosage was higher in G2-Dip. The plasmatic glutathione levels were higher in the G2-Dip than the G1-Control, and there was a trend to higher levels in G3-FreeAA. The reduction in histological lesions, greater production of fibroblasts, and greater amounts of glutathione may have benefited the evolution of burn necrosis, which showed greater preservation of interspaces.

Resumo Este estudo foi realizado para avaliar o efeito da Glutamina, como um dipeptídeo ou forma de aminoácido livre, na progressão de queimaduras em ratos. Trinta ratos Wistar machos foram queimados com um pente de metal aquecido em água fervente (98 °C) por três minutos, criando quatro áreas retangulares queimadas separadas por três interesespaços não queimados (zona de estase) em ambos os lados do dorso. Os animais foram randomizados em três grupos (n = 10): solução salina (G1-Controle) e grupos tratados que receberam glutamina via oral como dipeptídeo (G2-Dip) ou aminoácido livre (G3-FreeAA). Dois e sete dias após a queimadura, as lesões foram fotografadas para avaliação da evolução da necrose entre os espaços não queimados. Sete dias após a lesão, foi dosada a glutationa sérica e realizada análise histopatológica. Pelas fotografias, houve uma redução significativa na progressão da necrose no G3-Free-AA entre os dias dois e sete. A análise histopatológica no dia 7 mostrou uma zona de estase significativamente maior sem necrose e número mais elevado de fibroblastos em G2-Dip e G3-FreeAA em comparação com G1-Controle. Os níveis plasmáticos de glutationa foram maiores no G2-Dip em relação ao G1-Controle, e houve tendência a níveis mais elevados no G3-FreeAA. A redução das lesões histológicas, maior produção de fibroblastos, maior quantidade de glutationa podem ter beneficiado a evolução da necrose da queimadura, que mostrou maior preservação dos interespaços.

Influence of incubation temperature and embryonic motility on the growth of members of Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802) / Influência da temperatura de incubação e da motilidade embrionária sobre o crescimento dos membros de Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802)

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate whether skeletal development of the Pantanal Caiman (Caiman yacare) is similarly influenced by temperature variation and controlled increases in embryo motility. All eggs were incubated at 90% humidity and 29 °C for the first 45 days. Thereafter, the incubation temperature was either maintained at 29 °C and embryos were treated with 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on days 46, 47, 48, and 49 (Group I, 29 °C 4-AP, n = 15); maintained at 29 °C (n = 14; Group II); or at 33 °C (n = 14, Group III). Embryonic movement was measured using an Egg Buddy® digital monitor on days 30, 35, 42, 49, 56, and 60, at which point embryos were euthanized and samples were collected for analysis. No differences were observed between groups with varying incubation temperatures. In contrast, embryonic motility was greater in embryos treated with 4-AP (P < 0.001) on day 49, and this was associated with higher proportions of snout-vent and hand lengths. This study demonstrates for the first time that pharmacologically induced increases in embryo motility result in phenotypic changes to the proportion of elements during prenatal ontogeny, thereby effectively altering the adaptation of the species to specific environments.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da temperatura e motilidade embrionária sobre o desenvolvimento esquelético de jacaré-do-pantanal (Caiman yacare). Os ovos foram incubados com 90% de umidade e empregou-se a temperatura de 29°C por 45 dias. Após, para a incubação do Grupo I a temperatura continuou em 29°C, mas associou-se à injeção de 4-aminopiridina (29°C-4AP, n = 15) aplicada nos dias 46, 47, 48 e 49, do Grupo II permaneceu em 29°C (n = 14) e do Grupo III elevou-se para 33°C (n = 14). A movimentação foi mensurada através do monitor digital Egg Buddy® nos dias 30, 35, 42, 49, 56 e 60 dias. Aos 60 dias, os embriões foram eutanasiados e coletadas amostras embrionárias. Na análise estatística não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos para o fator temperatura sobre a motilidade embrionária no desenvolvimento esquelético. Em contraste, a motilidade evidenciou diferença estatística no dia 49 para o Grupo I (P < 0,001) e apresentou maiores proporções de nariz e mão. Esses dados demonstraram pela primeira vez que o aumento na motilidade, induzidos farmacologicamente resultam em divergências fenotípicas na proporção de segmentos anatômicos durante a ontogenia pré-natal, podendo alterar efetivamente a adaptação dos animais em ambientes específicos.

Benthic community ecology for Algerian river Seybouse / Ecologia da comunidade bêntica para o rio Seybouse da Argélia

Abstract The Seybouse is the second largest river basin in Algeria, hosting an important biodiversity and providing various ecosystem services. This watershed is highly influenced by agricultural and industrial activities, which threaten its biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. The use of benthic macroinvertebrates as biological indicators has a long tradition in developed countries and integrated into all assessments of the ecological quality of river systems. However, the macroinvertebrates of many North African regions are still not well studied, including those of the Seybouse river. The aim of this study is to assess the inventory and ecological role of benthic macroinvertebrates in inland waters of the Seybouse River and determine the impact of pollution on their spatial distributions. We sampled the benthic macrofauna of Wadi Seybouse and its affluents using regular surveys in three sites, of which one was in the upper Seybouse Bouhamdane in Medjez Amar and two in the middle Seybouse. Between December 2019 and May 2020, 10 physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, OD, water speed, NO3, Salinity, NO2, MES, turbidity, depth) were measured in order to establish a health state diagnosis of these aquatic ecosystems. The complementary biological approach by the analysis of populations of macroinvertebrates identified 7482 individuals and 40 taxa divided into five classes: Crustaceans which were the most dominant, insects with the main orders (Ephemeroptera, Diptera, Trichoptera, Heteroptera and Odonata), Molluscs, Nematodes and Annelids. The physico-chemical analyzes and the application of the organic pollution indices indicated a strong to excessive pollution for all sites, especially in Seybouse upstream

Resumo O Seybouse é um rio no nordeste da Argélia, é o segundo maior rio, tem uma área de captação de cerca de 6.500 km2 que acolhe cerca de 1,5 milhões de habitantes. Importantes atividades agrícolas e industriais são desenvolvidas nesta bacia hidrográfica. O uso de macroinvertebrados bentônicos como indicadores biológicos tem uma longa tradição em países desenvolvidos e está integrado em todas as avaliações da qualidade ecológica dos sistemas fluviais. O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar o inventário e o papel ecológico dos macroinvertebrados bentônicos nas águas interiores do rio Seybouse e determinar o impacto da poluição em suas distribuições. Resultados semelhantes foram relatados para outros países e rios argelinos. Este estudo enfoca a macrofauna bentônica de Wadi Seybouse e seus afluentes. Foram prospectados 03 locais, um no alto Seybousse Bouhamdane em Medjez Amar e dois no meio Seybousse Salah Salah Salah e Oued Zimba. Entre dezembro de 2019 e maio de 2020, dez parâmetros físico-químicos (pH, CE, DO, velocidade da água, NO3, Salinidade, NO2, MES, turbidez, deth) foram medidos para estabelecer um diagnóstico do estado de saúde desses ecossistemas aquáticos. A abordagem biológica complementar pela análise de populações de macroinvertebrados identificou 7.482 indivíduos e 40 táxons divididos em cinco classes: Crustáceos que são os mais dominantes, Insetos com as ordens principais (Ephemeroptera, Diptera, Trichoptera, Heteroptera e Odonata), Moluscos, Nematóides e Anelídeos. As análises físico-químicas e a aplicação dos índices de poluição orgânica, indicaram uma poluição forte a excessiva para todos os locais especialmente Salah Salah Salah.

Oral glutamine dipeptide or oral glutamine free amino acid reduces burned injury progression in rats

Abstract This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Glutamine, as a dipeptide or a free amino acid form, on the progression of burn injuries in rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were burned with a comb metal plate heated in boiling water (98 °C) for three minutes, creating four rectangular full-thickness burn areas separated by three unburned interspaces (zone of stasis) in both dorsum sides. The animals were randomized into three groups (n=10): saline solution (G1-Control) and treated groups that orally received Glutamine as dipeptide (G2-Dip) or free amino acid (G3-FreeAA). Two and seven days after burn injury, lesions were photographed for unburned interspaces necrosis evolution assessment. Seven days after injury, glutathione seric was measured and histopathological analysis was performed. By photographs, there was a significant reduction in necrosis progression in G3-Free-AA between days two and seven. Histopathological analysis at day 7 showed a significantly higher stasis zone without necrosis and a higher number of fibroblasts in G2-Dip and G3-FreeAA compared with G1-Control. Also, glutathione serum dosage was higher in G2-Dip. The plasmatic glutathione levels were higher in the G2-Dip than the G1-Control, and there was a trend to higher levels in G3-FreeAA. The reduction in histological lesions, greater production of fibroblasts, and greater amounts of glutathione may have benefited the evolution of burn necrosis, which showed greater preservation of interspaces.

Resumo Este estudo foi realizado para avaliar o efeito da Glutamina, como um dipeptídeo ou forma de aminoácido livre, na progressão de queimaduras em ratos. Trinta ratos Wistar machos foram queimados com um pente de metal aquecido em água fervente (98 °C) por três minutos, criando quatro áreas retangulares queimadas separadas por três interesespaços não queimados (zona de estase) em ambos os lados do dorso. Os animais foram randomizados em três grupos (n = 10): solução salina (G1-Controle) e grupos tratados que receberam glutamina via oral como dipeptídeo (G2-Dip) ou aminoácido livre (G3-FreeAA). Dois e sete dias após a queimadura, as lesões foram fotografadas para avaliação da evolução da necrose entre os espaços não queimados. Sete dias após a lesão, foi dosada a glutationa sérica e realizada análise histopatológica. Pelas fotografias, houve uma redução significativa na progressão da necrose no G3-Free-AA entre os dias dois e sete. A análise histopatológica no dia 7 mostrou uma zona de estase significativamente maior sem necrose e número mais elevado de fibroblastos em G2-Dip e G3-FreeAA em comparação com G1-Controle. Os níveis plasmáticos de glutationa foram maiores no G2-Dip em relação ao G1-Controle, e houve tendência a níveis mais elevados no G3-FreeAA. A redução das lesões histológicas, maior produção de fibroblastos, maior quantidade de glutationa podem ter beneficiado a evolução da necrose da queimadura, que mostrou maior preservação dos interespaços.

Influence of incubation temperature and embryonic motility on the growth of members of Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802)

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate whether skeletal development of the Pantanal Caiman (Caiman yacare) is similarly influenced by temperature variation and controlled increases in embryo motility. All eggs were incubated at 90% humidity and 29 °C for the first 45 days. Thereafter, the incubation temperature was either maintained at 29 °C and embryos were treated with 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on days 46, 47, 48, and 49 (Group I, 29 °C 4-AP, n = 15); maintained at 29 °C (n = 14; Group II); or at 33 °C (n = 14, Group III). Embryonic movement was measured using an Egg Buddy® digital monitor on days 30, 35, 42, 49, 56, and 60, at which point embryos were euthanized and samples were collected for analysis. No differences were observed between groups with varying incubation temperatures. In contrast, embryonic motility was greater in embryos treated with 4-AP (P 0.001) on day 49, and this was associated with higher proportions of snout-vent and hand lengths. This study demonstrates for the first time that pharmacologically induced increases in embryo motility result in phenotypic changes to the proportion of elements during prenatal ontogeny, thereby effectively altering the adaptation of the species to specific environments.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da temperatura e motilidade embrionária sobre o desenvolvimento esquelético de jacaré-do-pantanal (Caiman yacare). Os ovos foram incubados com 90% de umidade e empregou-se a temperatura de 29°C por 45 dias. Após, para a incubação do Grupo I a temperatura continuou em 29°C, mas associou-se à injeção de 4-aminopiridina (29°C-4AP, n = 15) aplicada nos dias 46, 47, 48 e 49, do Grupo II permaneceu em 29°C (n = 14) e do Grupo III elevou-se para 33°C (n = 14). A movimentação foi mensurada através do monitor digital Egg Buddy® nos dias 30, 35, 42, 49, 56 e 60 dias. Aos 60 dias, os embriões foram eutanasiados e coletadas amostras embrionárias. Na análise estatística não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos para o fator temperatura sobre a motilidade embrionária no desenvolvimento esquelético. Em contraste, a motilidade evidenciou diferença estatística no dia 49 para o Grupo I (P 0,001) e apresentou maiores proporções de nariz e mão. Esses dados demonstraram pela primeira vez que o aumento na motilidade, induzidos farmacologicamente resultam em divergências fenotípicas na proporção de segmentos anatômicos durante a ontogenia pré-natal, podendo alterar efetivamente a adaptação dos animais em ambientes específicos.

Benthic community ecology for Algerian river Seybouse

Abstract The Seybouse is the second largest river basin in Algeria, hosting an important biodiversity and providing various ecosystem services. This watershed is highly influenced by agricultural and industrial activities, which threaten its biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. The use of benthic macroinvertebrates as biological indicators has a long tradition in developed countries and integrated into all assessments of the ecological quality of river systems. However, the macroinvertebrates of many North African regions are still not well studied, including those of the Seybouse river. The aim of this study is to assess the inventory and ecological role of benthic macroinvertebrates in inland waters of the Seybouse River and determine the impact of pollution on their spatial distributions. We sampled the benthic macrofauna of Wadi Seybouse and its affluents using regular surveys in three sites, of which one was in the upper Seybouse Bouhamdane in Medjez Amar and two in the middle Seybouse. Between December 2019 and May 2020, 10 physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, OD, water speed, NO3, Salinity, NO2, MES, turbidity, depth) were measured in order to establish a health state diagnosis of these aquatic ecosystems. The complementary biological approach by the analysis of populations of macroinvertebrates identified 7482 individuals and 40 taxa divided into five classes: Crustaceans which were the most dominant, insects with the main orders (Ephemeroptera, Diptera, Trichoptera, Heteroptera and Odonata), Molluscs, Nematodes and Annelids. The physico-chemical analyzes and the application of the organic pollution indices indicated a strong to excessive pollution for all sites, especially in Seybouse upstream

Resumo O Seybouse é um rio no nordeste da Argélia, é o segundo maior rio, tem uma área de captação de cerca de 6.500 km2 que acolhe cerca de 1,5 milhões de habitantes. Importantes atividades agrícolas e industriais são desenvolvidas nesta bacia hidrográfica. O uso de macroinvertebrados bentônicos como indicadores biológicos tem uma longa tradição em países desenvolvidos e está integrado em todas as avaliações da qualidade ecológica dos sistemas fluviais. O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar o inventário e o papel ecológico dos macroinvertebrados bentônicos nas águas interiores do rio Seybouse e determinar o impacto da poluição em suas distribuições. Resultados semelhantes foram relatados para outros países e rios argelinos. Este estudo enfoca a macrofauna bentônica de Wadi Seybouse e seus afluentes. Foram prospectados 03 locais, um no alto Seybousse Bouhamdane em Medjez Amar e dois no meio Seybousse Salah Salah Salah e Oued Zimba. Entre dezembro de 2019 e maio de 2020, dez parâmetros físico-químicos (pH, CE, DO, velocidade da água, NO3, Salinidade, NO2, MES, turbidez, deth) foram medidos para estabelecer um diagnóstico do estado de saúde desses ecossistemas aquáticos. A abordagem biológica complementar pela análise de populações de macroinvertebrados identificou 7.482 indivíduos e 40 táxons divididos em cinco classes: Crustáceos que são os mais dominantes, Insetos com as ordens principais (Ephemeroptera, Diptera, Trichoptera, Heteroptera e Odonata), Moluscos, Nematóides e Anelídeos. As análises físico-químicas e a aplicação dos índices de poluição orgânica, indicaram uma poluição forte a excessiva para todos os locais especialmente Salah Salah Salah.

Prevalence and determinants of anemia among school going children in the state of Tamil Nadu, India: applications of two-level logistic regression model

Background: Anemia still remains as one of the major public health problems in India despite implementing preventive measures. The objective was to find the prevalence and determinants of anemia among school going children in Tamil Nadu. Methods: We used the data from the fourth round of district level household survey (DLHS-4) for Tamil Nadu pertaining to the year 2012-13. Our analysis included 23997 children. Descriptive statistics, Random intercept and empty models of two-level logistic regression analysis were used. Results: The overall prevalence of anemia was found to be 41.4% (95% CI: 40.77%-42.02%). We observed a district level variation on anemia (District level variance=0.1, p<0.001) and the intra class correlation coefficient was 0.0295. The prevalence of anemia was more in coastal districts as compared to non-coastal districts (43.85% vs. 40.18%, p<0.001). Variables that are found to have significant association with anemia on multilevel analysis were younger age (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=1.343, 95% CI: 1.270-1.420), female children (AOR=1.462, 95% CI: 1.387-1.541), more than eight family members in the household (AOR=1.120, 95% CI: 1.008-1.245), rural residence (AOR=1.103, 95% CI: 1.038-1.172) and lower standard of living (AOR=1.203, 95% CI: 1.084-1.334). Conclusions: Half of school going children were anemic in the state. Geospatial distribution of anemia varied significantly. Governments and regional health centres should take adequate measures to avert the consequences of anemia in school going children considering these factors.