Brown spiders (Loxosceles) are taking hold in Pernambuco, Brazil: a case series, 2018-2022 / Las arañas marrones (Loxosceles) están instalándose en Pernambuco, Brasil: serie de casos, 2018-2022 / As aranhas-marrons (Loxosceles) estão se estabelecendo em Pernambuco: série de casos, 2018-2022

ABSTRACT Objective To describe accidents involving brown spider (genus Loxosceles) bites notified by the Pernambuco Poison Information and Care Center (CIATox-PE), Brazil, from January 2018 to December 2022. Methods This was a case series study of brown spider bites notified by the CIATox-PE. Results The study included 22 cases with median age of 35 years, the majority being female (13); the cases occurred in rural and urban areas (12 versus 10), at night (10); Petrolina was the municipality with the highest number of notifications (6); spider bites occurred mainly in the lower (11) and upper (9) limbs, almost exclusively inside households (21); specific serum therapy was not indicated for 8 cases because the time for its effectiveness had already elapsed. Conclusion Loxoscelism cases occurred more frequently in females, in both rural and urban areas and mainly at home, with delays in seeking medical care.

RESUMEN Objetivo Describir accidentes causados ​​por arañas pardas (género Loxosceles) notificados por el Centro de Información de Asistencia Toxicológica de Pernambuco (CIATox-PE), Brasil, de enero de 2018 a diciembre de 2022. Métodos Reporte de 22 casos notificados de CIATox-PE. Resultados Casos con media de idade de 35 años, predominio femenino (13); los casos ocurrieron en área rural/urbana (12 versus 10), por la noche (10); Petrolina fue el municipio con más notificaciones (6); las picaduras fueron principalmente en los miembros inferiores (11) y superiores (9), casi exclusivamente en el interior de las viviendas (21); en 8 de los casos no se indicó sueroterapia específica por haber superado el tiempo de efecto. Conclusión Los casos de loxoscelismo ocurrieron con mayor frecuencia en el sexo femenino, en áreas rurales y urbanas, y principalmente en el hogar, con demoras en la búsqueda de atención médica.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever os acidentes por picada de aranhas-marrons (gênero Loxosceles), notificados no Centro de Informação de Assistência Toxicológica de Pernambuco (CIATox-PE), Brasil, no período de 2018 a 2022. Métodos Estudo de série, sobre casos notificados no CIATox-PE. Resultados Foram incluídos 22 casos com mediana de idade de 35 anos e houve predomínio do sexo feminino (13); os casos ocorreram nas zonas rural e urbana (12 versus 10), durante a noite (10), e Petrolina foi o município com mais notificações (6); as picadas ocorreram, principalmente, nos membros inferiores (11) e superiores (9), quase exclusivamente dentro das residências (21); para 8 acidentados, não se prescreveu soroterapia específica por terem ultrapassado o tempo de efetividade. Conclusão Os casos de loxoscelismo ocorreram com maior frequência no sexo feminino, nas zonas rural e urbana indiferentemente, quase todos foram intradomiciliares e houve demora na procura por atendimento médico.

Disposição a pagar e Método de Valoração Contingente na avaliação econômica de serviços farmacêuticos / Willingness to pay and Contingent Valuation Method in the economic evaluation of pharmacy services

Objetivo: Sintetizar os principais pontos abordados em investigações de Disposição a Pagar (DAP) por serviços farmacêuticos, com foco no Método de Valoração Contingente (MVC). Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão não sistemática com recuperação e análise de manuscritos publicados até novembro de 2020. A busca por estudos ocorreu nas bases MEDLINE, LILACS e SciELO. Resultados: Foram discutidos os fundamentos teóricos e processos metodológicos da análise, apresentando o MVC como principal perspectiva de abordagem. Enquanto delineamento do questionário, é sugerida uma estrutura que apresente, sequencialmente, os elementos: "conhecimento do participante sobre a intervenção", "apresentação da intervenção", "cenário hipotético", "pergunta DAP", "estado de saúde percebido" e "informações socioeconômicas". No mais, é enfatizada a importância da execução de etapas de validação, tanto do instrumento quanto da avaliação. Conclusão: Avaliar a preferência declarada da população por serviços farmacêuticos é uma estratégia ainda limitada. Se realizado adequadamente, esse tipo de investigação pode auxiliar gestores e tomadores de decisão no processo de implementação de novas tecnologias de cuidado.

Objective: To synthesize key points addressed in investigations of Willingness to Pay (WTP) for pharmaceutical care services, focusing on the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). Methods: We performed a non-systematic review with recovery and analysis of manuscript published until November 2020. Three databases were majorly searched, including MEDLINE, LILACS and SciELO. Results: The theoretical foundations and methodological process were discussed, presenting the CVM as the main perspective. For questionnaire design, is suggested a structure that sequentially presents the elements: "participant knowledge on intervention", "intervention presentation", "hypothetical scenario", "WTP question", "perceived health status", and "socioeconomic information". In addition, we emphasize the importance of executing validation steps for the instrument of measurement as well as the evaluation process. Conclusion: Assessing the population's declared preference for pharmaceutical services is still a limited strategy. If carried out properly, this type of investigation can help managers and decision makers in the process of implementing technologies of care.

Descriptive electromyography signals analysis of equine longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius muscles during maneuvers used to activate the core / [Análise descritiva do sinal eletromiográfico dos músculos longuíssimo dorsal, reto abdominal e glúteo médio de equinos durante a realização de manobras utilizadas para ativação do core]

Maneuvers to activate the equine's core can make a difference in their physical and psychic health. Although these activities are recommended and practiced, there is little research proving their effectiveness. This article aims to describe, through surface electromyography, the occurrences, durations and sequences activity of longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius during thoracolumbar flexion (TLF), lumbar and lumbosacral flexion (LLSF), global flexion (GF), which is the combination of TLF and LLSF, and tail traction (TT). Seven healthy adult horses of three different breeds performed five repetitions of these movements for five seconds (sec). Electromyographic activity was captured with non-invasive superficial sensors positioned in the skin regions covering these muscles. The sequence was performed once per animal, muscle activity captured by surface electromyography, data from two replicates of each animal were selected, analyzed on matLab software and data tabulation were described during each maneuver. These maneuvers provoked punctual and transient activation of muscles mentioned above, confirming the ability to activate equine core muscles. However, responses were not standardized, which means there were variations of occurrence, duration and sequence, suggesting that for practical application of those maneuvers it is necessary to perform more repetitions with longer durations to activate more muscles.(AU)

Manobras para ativação da musculatura do core equino podem ser diferenciais para saúde física e psíquica dos animais, sendo recomendadas e praticadas, mas existem poucas pesquisas comprovando a eficácia delas. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever, por meio da eletromiografia de superfície, as ocorrências, as durações e as sequências temporais da atividade muscular do longuíssimo dorsal, do reto abdominal e do glúteo médio durante a realização das manobras de flexão toracolombar, flexão lombar e lombossacra, flexão global (toracolombar e lombossacra) e tração de cauda. Para isso, sete equinos adultos e hígidos de três raças realizaram esses quatro movimentos clássicos para ativar o core equino, com cinco repetições e manutenção do estímulo reflexivo por cinco segundos. Durante a realização, a atividade eletromiográfica foi capturada com a utilização de sensores superficiais posicionados de forma não invasiva em regiões cutâneas referentes a cada músculo. O protocolo completo de manobras foi realizado uma vez por cada animal enquanto a atividade muscular era capturada. Posteriormente, duas repetições de cada animal foram triadas e submetidas ao software matLab para análise. Com base na tabulação dos dados, foram descritas as variáveis eletromiográficas de presença ou ausência de ativação muscular, a duração média dos picos eletromiográficos superiores ao RMS (root mean square) e a sequência da atividade muscular observada durante cada manobra. Essas manobras provocaram ativações pontuais e transitórias nos três músculos, o que confirma a capacidade de excitar músculos do core equino. Contudo, as respostas não foram padronizadas, sugerindo que, na prática dessa atividade, devem-se realizar mais repetições com durações superiores a cinco segundos, a fim de se buscarem maiores ativações.(AU)

Influence of ultra-processed foods consumption during pregnancy on baby's anthropometric measurements, from birth to the first year of life: a systematic review / Influência do consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados durante a gestação nas medidas antropométricas do bebê, do nascimento ao primeiro ano de vida: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objectives: to perform a systematic review of studies that investigated the influence of ultra-processed foods (UPF) consumption during pregnancy on child's anthropometric parameters up to one year of life. Methods: cohort and cross-sectional studies were researched in BVS, Cinahl, Cochrane, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science databases until March 2020, and the main descriptors were: "Pregnant Women", "Ultra-processed foods", "Birth Weight", "Smallfor Gestational Age", "Infant", "Newborn". Results: seventeen articles were considered eligible and evaluated the associations between the exposures: ultra-processed dietary patterns; soft drinks, sugar-sweetened beverages, artificially sweetened beverages; fast food, junk food, sweets, snacks and the outcomes: birth weight and its classifications; length and head circumference at birth; birth weight adjustments according to gestational age; weight/age, length/age, body mass index/age and weight/length indices. The results showed: 36 non-significant associations between the exposures and the outcomes; 13 direct associations (outcomes versus ultraprocessed dietary patterns, soft drinks, artificially sweetened beverages, sweets, junk food) and 5 inverse associations (outcomes versus ultra-processed dietary patterns, soft drinks). Conclusions: most of the evaluated literature did not demonstrate the influence of UPF consumption during pregnancy on the newborn's anthropometric measurements up to one year of life and denoted a smaller number of direct and inverse associations between the exposures and the outcomes.

Resumo Objetivos: realizar uma revisão sistemática de estudos que investigaram a influência do consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados (AUP) na gestação nas medidas antropométricas do recém-nascido até um ano de idade. Métodos: foram pesquisados estudos de coorte e transversais nas bases BVS, Cinahl, Cochrane, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus e Web of Science até março de 2020, tendo como principais descritores: "Pregnant women", "Ultra-processed foods", "Birth weight", "Small for Gestational Age", "Infant", "Newborn". Resultados: dezessete artigos foram considerados elegíveis e avaliaram as associações entre as exposições: padrões alimentares ultraprocessados; refrigerantes, sugar-sweetened beverages ou artificially sweetened beverages; fastfood, junkfood, doces e snacks e os desfe-chos:peso ao nascer e suas classificações; comprimento e perímetro cefálico ao nascimento; adequações do peso ao nascer segundo idade gestacional; e índices peso/idade, compri-mento/idade, índice de massa corporal/idade e peso/comprimento. Foram encontradas: 36 associações nulas entre exposições e desfechos avaliados; 13 diretas (desfechos versus padrões alimentares ultraprocessados, refrigerantes, artificially sweetened beverages, doces e junkfood) e 5 inversas (desfechos versus padrões alimentares ultraprocessados e refrigerantes). Conclusões: a maioria da literatura avaliada não demonstrou influência do consumo de AUP na gestação nas medidas antropométricas do recém-nascido até um ano de vida e apontou um menor número de associações diretas e inversas entre as exposições e os desfechos analisados.

Papel do imunometabolismo, receptores Toll-Like e ECA 2 na COVID-19 / Role of immunometabolism, Toll-Like receptors, and ACE-2 in COVID-19

No combate à infecção pelo coronavírus 2 da síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS-CoV-2), o organismo se utiliza de mecanismos da imunidade inata, dentre eles os receptores Toll- Like (TLR), responsáveis pela sinalização da inflamação através da liberação de mediadores químicos e recrutamento de células imunitárias. Na patologia causada pela doença do SARS-CoV-2 2019 (COVID-19), ganha especial importância o TLR-4, visto que a sua estimulação exacerbada vem sendo relacionada ao estado hiperinflamatório em fases avançadas da COVID-19. Outro receptor que desempenha um papel primordial na infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2, servindo como porta de entrada para o vírus e progressão da doença, é a enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 (ECA 2), cuja ligação com a proteína S viral causa desregulação de vários sistemas fundamentais para a homeostase, como o sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona. Pacientes com doenças cardiometabólicas como obesidade, diabetes, aterosclerose e hipertensão vêm sendo classificados como alto risco para desenvolver as formas graves da COVID-19, visto que o estado inflamatório, já existente nessas doenças, pode ser agravado pelo desequilíbrio metabólico causado pelo SARS-CoV-2. A elucidação desses e de outros mecanismos relacionados à fisiopatologia da COVID-19 é imprescindível para uma melhora na estratificação de risco, nas escolhas terapêuticas e no prognóstico desses pacientes. Desta forma, nesta revisão objetivamos discutir as relações entre TLR-4, ECA 2, doenças cardiometabólicas, infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2 e gravidade da COVID-19.

In the fight against the infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the body uses mechanisms from the innate immune system, such as Toll-Like receptors (TLR), responsible for inflammation signaling through release of chemical mediators and recruitment of immune cells. In the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), TLR-4 assumes special importance because its exacerbated stimulation has been related to a hyperinflammatory state in advanced stages of COVID-19. Another receptor that plays a major role in SARS-CoV-2 infection, serving as a gateway to the virus and impacting disease progression, is angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2), whose binding to the viral S protein causes dysregulation of several key systems for homeostasis, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The elucidation of these and other mechanisms related to the pathophysiology of COVID-19 is essential for an improvement in risk stratification, therapeutic choices, and prognosis for these patients. Thus, we aimed to discuss in this review the relationships between TLR-4, ACE-2, cardiometabolic diseases, SARS-CoV-2 infection, and severity of COVID-19.

Abdominal Actinomycosis misdiagnosed as liposarcoma

Actinomycosis is an uncommon, endogenous, and chronic infection with varied and nonspecific clinical features such as abdominal, pelvic or cervical masses, ulcerative lesions, abscesses, draining fistula, fibrosis, and constitutional symptoms. The disease ensues when the bacteria disrupt the mucosal barrier, invade, and spread throughout interfascial planes. Currently, the diagnosis of actinomycosis is challenging because of its very low frequency and depending on the clinical presentation it may masquerade malignancies. Therapy consists initially in intravenous penicillin, followed by an oral regimen that may be extended until a year of treatment. A timely diagnosis is crucial to avoid extensive therapeutic attempt as surgery. However, a biopsy or drainage of abscesses and fistula's tract may be required not only as a diagnostic procedure as part of the therapy. We report the case of a 72-year-old woman with an abdominal mass initially misdiagnosed as a liposarcoma. A second biopsy of a skin lesion of the abdominal wall made the diagnosis of actinomycosis, avoiding a major surgical procedure. The patient was treated with a long-term course of antibiotics with favorable outcome. Liposarcoma was ruled out after the patient's full recovery with antibiotics and the misdiagnosis was credit to the overconfidence on the immunohistochemical positivity to MDM2.

Infecção por Helicobacter pylori e lesões precursoras de câncer gástrico: prevalência e fatores associados em um laboratório de referência no Sudeste do Brasil / Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric cancer precursor lesions: prevalence and associated factors in a reference laboratory in southeastern brazil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection is the most important risk factor for gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia, both considered gastric cancer precursor lesions. Therefore, the investigation of the occurrence of H. pylori infection, precursor lesions and associated factors guides the adoption of specific strategies for the control this type of cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in patients undergoing upper digestive endoscopy, as well as the prevalence of intestinal metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation and their association with H. pylori infection. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed based on reports of gastric endoscopic biopsies performed in a private laboratory affiliated to the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS). Patients were evaluated for age, gender and type of health service. The samples were evaluated for the presence of H. pylori, and also of chronic inflammation, intestinal metaplasia and glandular atrophy. RESULTS: Of a total of 4,604 patients (mean age 51±16.6), 63.9% were female and 63.1% coming from private health care service. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 31.7% (n=1,459), and the percentage of infection was significantly higher in patients from public health service (42.0%) in relation to patients from private health service (25.6%). Among H. pylori (+) patients, a higher percentage of intestinal metaplasia (17.7% vs 13.3%) and glandular atrophy (17.6% vs 6.9%) were observed when compared to those H. pylori (-) (P<0.01). From the patients H. pylori (+) with at least one type of precursor lesion (n=418), 161 (38.5%) had metaplasia and chronic inflammation, 160 (38.3%) had atrophy and chronic inflammation and finally 97 (23.2%) presented metaplasia, atrophy and chronic inflammation simultaneously. CONCLUSION: The present study reinforces the association of H. pylori infection with gastric cancer precursor lesions in a Brazilian population, emphasizing the importance of infection prevention measures, as well as the treatment of infected patients, especially in regions with lower socioeconomic levels that show a higher prevalence of infection by H. pylori.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A infecção por Helicobacter pylori é o fator de risco mais importante para atrofia gástrica e metaplasia intestinal, ambas consideradas lesões precursoras do câncer gástrico. Portanto, a investigação da ocorrência de infecção por H. pylori, das lesões precursoras e dos fatores associados orienta a adoção de estratégias específicas para o controle deste tipo de câncer. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de infecção por H. pylori em pacientes submetidos à endoscopia digestiva alta, bem como a prevalência de metaplasia intestinal, atrofia e inflamação crônica e a associação destas com a infecção por H. pylori. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo com base em laudos de biópsias endoscópicas gástricas realizadas em laboratório privado afiliado ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à idade, sexo e tipo de serviço de saúde. As amostras foram avaliadas quanto à presença de H. pylori e também de inflamação crônica, metaplasia intestinal e atrofia glandular. RESULTADOS: Do total de 4.604 pacientes (idade média de 51±16,6), 63,9% eram do sexo feminino e 63,1% provenientes de serviços de saúde privado. A prevalência de infecção por H. pylori foi de 31,7% (n=1.459) e o percentual de infecção foi significativamente maior nos pacientes do serviço público de saúde (42,0%) em relação aos pacientes do serviço privado de saúde (25,6%). Entre os pacientes com H. pylori (+), foi observado maior percentual de metaplasia intestinal (17,7% vs 13,3%) e atrofia glandular (17,6% vs 6,9%) quando comparados aos H. pylori (-) (P<0,01). Dos pacientes H. pylori (+) com pelo menos um tipo de lesão precursora (n=418), 161 (38,5%) apresentaram metaplasia e inflamação crônica, 160 (38,3%) apresentaram atrofia e inflamação crônica e, finalmente, 97 (23,2%) apresentaram metaplasia, atrofia e inflamação crônica simultaneamente. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo reforça a associação da infecção por H. pylori com lesões precursoras de câncer gástrico em uma população brasileira, enfatizando a importância de medidas de prevenção de infecção, bem como o tratamento de pacientes infectados, principalmente em regiões com níveis socioeconômicos mais baixos que apresentam maior prevalência de infecção por H. pylori.

Composição de ácidos graxos do queijo e leite de vacas alimentadas com casca de banana / Fatty acid composition of cheese and milk of cows fed with banana peel

Objetivou-se avaliar os níveis de casca de banana seca ao sol na dieta de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu sobre o perfil de ácidos graxos do leite e do queijo minas frescal. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de 0, 15, 30, 45 e 60% de substituição da silagem de sorgo pela casca de banana. O delineamento experimental foi em dois quadrados latinos 5 x 5 simultâneos. As amostras de leite e queijo foram analisadas quanto ao perfil de ácidos graxos por cromatografia gasosa. Observou-se efeito quadrático para o somatório de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados do leite, com valor máximo no nível de 23,54% de substituição. Houve efeito linear decrescente para os ácidos graxos C15:0 iso e C16:0 iso. Os ácidos graxos heneicosanoico, linoleico, linoleico conjugado e araquidônico apresentaram efeito quadrático. Não houve efeito das dietas sobre os ácidos graxos no queijo. A substituição de até 60% da silagem de sorgo por casca de banana na dieta de vacas em lactação pode ser alternativa para produção e processamento do leite, quando se considera a melhora no valor nutricional da fração lipídica do leite e o aumento dos teores de ácido linoleico conjugado.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the inclusion levels of dry banana peel in the sun in the diet of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on the profile of fatty acids of milk and Minas fresh cheese. The diets were composed of 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60% replacement of sorghum silage by banana peel. The experimental design was Latin squares, simultaneous, 5 x 5. Samples of milk and cheese were analyzed for fatty acid composition by gas chromatography. Quadratic effect for the sum of milk polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the maximum level of 23,54% replacement. There was a decreasing linear effect for C15:0 iso fatty acids and C16: 0 iso. The heneicosanoic fatty acids, linoleic, conjugated linoleic and arachidonic presented quadratic effect. There was no effect of diets on fatty acids in cheese. Replacement of up to 60% of the sorghum silage of a banana peel in the diet of cows can be an alternative to milk production and processing when considering the improvement in the nutritional value of the milk lipid fraction and increase of the levels of conjugated linoleic acid.(AU)

População de protozoários ruminais em novilhos zebuínos alimentados com ou sem volumoso / Population of Protozoa in zebu steers fed with or without bulk

This study aimed to quantify and identify the profile of the rumen protozoa population of beef steers fed with or without roughage. Nellore crossbred steers raised in extensive system on lignified tropical pastures with mineral supplementation and steers confined for 60 days only receiving pelletized concentrate and whole corn kernels were evaluated. After slaughter, rumen fluid was collected and one ml aliquots were diluted in nine ml formaldehyde solution at 10%. The counts of small, medium and large protozoa were held in Sedgewick Rafter chambers and identification of genus was possible after staining lugol and optical microscope with a 40X objective. The concentration of rumen protozoa positively correlated with pH ruminal. Cattle fed without roughage had significantly lower rumen protozoa population (P<0.05). Animals fed roughage had higher occurrence of Dasytrichia genus, Charonina, Entodinum, Diplodinium, Ostracodinium and Epidinium while those fed without bulk, the Buetschilia, Isotricha, Eodinium, Polyplastron, Elyplastron, Metadinium and Enoploplastron were the most frequent genus.(AU)

Inhibitory effect of the Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis (Spreng) R.M. King & H. Rob. aqueous extract on human lymphocyte proliferation and IFN-γ and TNF-α production in vitro

Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis (Asteraceae) is a plant commonly known as arnica-do-campo and belongs to the native flora of the Brazilian Cerrado. The alcoholic extract of the plant has been used as an anti-inflammatory agent in folk medicine, but the biological mechanism of action has not been elucidated. The present study evaluated the composition of P. brasiliensis aqueous extract and its effects on pro-inflammatory cytokine production and lymphocyte proliferation. The extracts were prepared by sequential maceration of P. brasiliensis leaves in ethanol, ethyl acetate, and water. Extract cytotoxicity was evaluated by trypan blue exclusion assay, and apoptosis and necrosis were measured by staining with annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide. The ethanolic (ETA) and acetate (ACE) extracts showed cytotoxic effects. The aqueous extract (AQU) was not cytotoxic. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate and ionomycin and treated with AQU (100 μg/mL) showed reduced interferon (IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression. AQU also inhibited lymphocyte proliferative response after nonspecific stimulation with phytohemagglutinin. The aqueous extract was analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection and mass spectrometry. Quinic acid and its derivatives 5-caffeoylquinic acid and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, as well as the flavonoids luteolin and luteolin dihexoside, were detected. All these compounds are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that P. brasiliensis aqueous extract can inhibit the pro-inflammatory cytokine production and proliferative response of lymphocytes. These effects may be related to the presence of chemical substances with anti-inflammatory actions previously reported in scientific literature.

Inflammatory cytokines and plasma redox status responses in hypertensive subjects after heat exposure

Hypertension is characterized by a pro-inflammatory status, including redox imbalance and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may be exacerbated after heat exposure. However, the effects of heat exposure, specifically in individuals with inflammatory chronic diseases such as hypertension, are complex and not well understood. This study compared the effects of heat exposure on plasma cytokine levels and redox status parameters in 8 hypertensive (H) and 8 normotensive (N) subjects (age: 46.5±1.3 and 45.6±1.4 years old, body mass index: 25.8±0.8 and 25.6±0.6 kg/m2, mean arterial pressure: 98.0±2.8 and 86.0±2.3 mmHg, respectively). They remained at rest in a sitting position for 10 min in a thermoneutral environment (22°C) followed by 30 min in a heated environmental chamber (38°C and 60% relative humidity). Blood samples were collected before and after heat exposure. Plasma cytokine levels were measured using sandwich ELISA kits. Plasma redox status was determined by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). Hypertensive subjects showed higher plasma levels of IL-10 at baseline (P<0.05), although levels of this cytokine were similar between groups after heat exposure. Moreover, after heat exposure, hypertensive individuals showed higher plasma levels of soluble TNF receptor (sTNFR1) and lower TBARS (P<0.01) and FRAP (P<0.05) levels. Controlled hypertensive subjects, who use angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitors), present an anti-inflammatory status and balanced redox status. Nevertheless, exposure to a heat stress condition seems to cause an imbalance in the redox status and an unregulated inflammatory response.

Oxidative stress and skeletal muscle dysfunction are present in healthy smokers

Chronic exposure to cigarette smoke seems to be related to an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress and changes in muscular and physical performances of healthy smokers. However, these parameters have not yet been evaluated simultaneously in previous studies. The participants of this study were healthy males divided into two groups: smokers (n=20) and non-smokers (n=20). Inflammation was evaluated by measuring plasma levels of the cytokines IL-10, IL-6 e TNF-α, and of the soluble receptors sTNFR1 and sTNFR2. Oxidative stress was evaluated by determination of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) plasma levels, total antioxidant capacity of plasma and erythrocytes activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Muscular performance was evaluated by measuring the peak torque of knee flexors and extensors, and by determining the total work of the knee extensors. Physical performance was assessed by measuring the peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak), the maximum heart rate (HRmax) and the walking distance in the shuttle walking test. Smokers showed an increase in the levels of the sTNFR1 and TBARS and a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity of plasma, in the catalase activity and in the total work (P<0.05). IL-6, IL-10, sTNFR2, SOD, peak torque, VO2 peak, HRmax and walking distance were similar between groups. Smokers presented increased oxidative stress and skeletal muscle dysfunction, demonstrating that the changes in molecular and muscular parameters occur simultaneously in healthy smokers.

Aerobic training modulates T cell activation in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the knee (kOA) is a disease that mainly affects the elderly and can lead to major physical and functional limitations. However, the specific effects of walking, particularly on the immune system, are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effect of 12 weeks of walking (3×/week) on the leukocyte profile and quality of life (QL) of elderly women with kOA. Sixteen women (age: 67±4 years, body mass index: 28.07±4.16 kg/m2) participated in a walking program. The variables were assessed before and after 12 weeks of training with a progressively longer duration (30–55 min) and higher intensity (72–82% of HRmax determined using a graded incremental treadmill test). The QL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and blood samples were collected for analysis with a cell counter and the San Fac flow cytometer. Walking training resulted in a 47% enhancement of the self-reported QL (P<0.05) and a 21% increase in the VO2max (P<0.0001) in elderly women with kOA. Furthermore, there was a reduction in CD4+ cells (pre=46.59±7%, post=44.58±9%, P=0.0189) and a higher fluorescence intensity for CD18+CD4+ (pre=45.30±10, post=64.27±33, P=0.0256) and CD18+CD8+ (pre=64.2±27, post=85.02±35, P=0.0130). In conclusion, the walking program stimulated leukocyte production, which may be related to the immunomodulatory effect of exercise. Walking also led to improvements in the QL and physical performance in elderly women with kOA.

Swimming training attenuates oxidative damage and increases enzymatic but not non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses in the rat brain

Although it is well known that physical training ameliorates brain oxidative function after injuries by enhancing the levels of neurotrophic factors and oxidative status, there is little evidence addressing the influence of exercise training itself on brain oxidative damage and data is conflicting. This study investigated the effect of well-established swimming training protocol on lipid peroxidation and components of antioxidant system in the rat brain. Male Wistar rats were randomized into trained (5 days/week, 8 weeks, 30 min; n=8) and non-trained (n=7) groups. Forty-eight hours after the last session of exercise, animals were euthanized and the brain was collected for oxidative stress analysis. Swimming training decreased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels (P<0.05) and increased the activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P<0.05) with no effect on brain non-enzymatic total antioxidant capacity, estimated by FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power) assay (P>0.05). Moreover, the swimming training promoted metabolic adaptations, such as increased maximal workload capacity (P<0.05) and maintenance of body weight. In this context, the reduced TBARS content and increased SOD antioxidant activity induced by 8 weeks of swimming training are key factors in promoting brain resistance. In conclusion, swimming training attenuated oxidative damage and increased enzymatic antioxidant but not non-enzymatic status in the rat brain.

Hipertensão arterial sistêmica em idosos do município de Tubarão, SC – Brasil: estudo populacional / Hypertension in elderly individuals from a city of Santa Catarina: a population-based study

Fundamentos: O envelhecimento é um fenômeno de realidade mundial. Com a senilidade da população, háaumento da prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e, entre elas, a hipertensão arterial sistêmica(HAS) é a mais prevalente.Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência de hipertensão arterial sistêmica e os fatores associados em idosos residentes nomunicípio de Tubarão, SC, Brasil.Métodos: Estudo transversal, de base populacional, realizado com idosos (≥60 anos) residentes na cidade deTubarão, SC, Brasil, no período de setembro de 2010 a maio de 2011. Realizada entrevista e posterior aferição dapressão arterial (PA), peso e altura. As variáveis analisadas foram: sexo, faixa etária, escolaridade, etnia, alcoolismo, tabagismo, obesidade, atividade física e história familiar. Foi considerado hipertenso o idoso com níveis pressóricos≥140/90mmHg ou aquele em uso de medicação anti-hipertensiva. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 805 idosos dos quais 699 (86,8%) considerados hipertensos. Destes, 56,2% apresentaram hipertensão arterial sistólica isolada. Todos os idosos com faixa etária ≥80 anos apresentavam hipertensão. As variáveis estatisticamente significativas foram idade, etnia, obesidade e história familiar de HAS. Conclusão: A prevalência da hipertensão arterial em idosos foi superior à encontrada em pesquisas realizadas anteriormente na cidade de Tubarão, SC. Os fatores associados à HAS foram: idade avançada, etnia não branca,presença de obesidade e história familiar positiva.

Background: Aging is a global phenomenon. With population aging, there is an increase in the prevalence of non-transmissible chronic diseases, among which systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is the most prevalent one. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension and associated factors in elderly individuals from the city of Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil.Methods: Population-based cross-sectional study conducted with elderly individuals (≥ 60 years old) living in the city of Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from September 2010 to May 2011. The individuals were interviewed and had their blood pressure (BP), weight and height checked. The variables analyzed were sex, age group, education level, ethnicity, alcoholism, smoking, obesity, physical activity and family history. Elderly individuals with blood pressure levels ≥140/90 mmHg or those using anti-hypertensive medication were considered hypertensive. Results: A total of 805 elderly individuals were interviewed, of which 699 (86.8%) were considered hypertensive. Of these, 56.2%had isolated systolic hypertension. All elderly individuals aged ≥ 80 had hypertension. The statistically significant variables were age, ethnicity, obesity and family history of hypertension. Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension in elderly individuals was higher than that reported in research studies carried out inthe city of Tubarão, Santa Catarina. The factors associated with hypertension were older age, non white ethnicity, presence of obesity and positive family history.

Caracterização da equideocultura no estado de Minas Gerais / Characterization of equidae breeding in Minas Gerais state

Recently, horse breeding has achieved greater prominence in the Brazilian society and now it started to appear as a part of the Brazilian agribusiness. The state of Minas Gerais stands out as the main producer of equidae in Brazil. The aim of this work was to characterize the breeding of equidae in this State in order to support future researches in this sector. By the evaluation of records from 1990 to 2009 provided by the "Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics" (IBGE) and also 967 interviews with breeders of equidae, it was possible to characterize some important points. It was observed that equidae breeding in this State moves over R$1,500,000,000 per year and employs 86,000 people. The main investments of the properties are made in purchasing saddles, accessories and commercial feeds. The main goal of equidae breeders in Minas Gerais has been the work in rural properties (49.49%) complementing many farming activities, especially the work with cows. Although Minas Gerais holds the main herd of equidae in the country, the number of animals has decreased. On the one hand, the equidae breeding sector has demonstrated its social and economic importance in agribusiness; on the other, hand further researches are needed to develop public policies to improve the breeding of equidae in Minas Gerais.

Leukocytosis, muscle damage and increased lymphocyte proliferative response after an adventure sprint race

The effect of an adventure sprint race (ASR) on T-cell proliferation, leukocyte count and muscle damage was evaluated. Seven young male runners completed an ASR in the region of Serra do Espinhaço, Brazil. The race induced a strong leukocytosis (6.22±2.04×103 cells/mm3 before vs 14.81±3.53×103 cells/mm3 after the race), marked by a significant increase of neutrophils and monocytes (P<0.05), but not total lymphocytes, CD3+CD4+ or CD3+CD8+ cells. However, the T-cell proliferative response to mitogenic stimulation was increased (P=0.025) after the race, which contradicted our hypothesis that ASR, as a high-demand competition, would inhibit T-cell proliferation. A positive correlation (P=0.03, r=0.79) was observed between the proliferative response of lymphocytes after the race and the time to complete the race, suggesting that the proliferative response was dependent on exercise intensity. Muscle damage was evident after the race by increased serum levels of aspartate amino transferase (24.99±8.30 vs 50.61±15.76 U/L, P=0.003). The results suggest that humoral factors and substances released by damaged muscle may be responsible for lymphocyte activation, which may be involved in muscle recovery and repair.