Cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory effect, and acute oral toxicity of a novel Attalea phalerata kernel oil-loaded nanocapsules.

The kernel oil of the Attalea phalerata Mart. Ex Spreng (Acurí) is traditionally used in several Latin American countries to treat respiratory problems, inflammation, and fever. However, it cannot be found on the literature any attend to use this oil in pharmaceutical formulation. In this paper, it was developed Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules, and it was evaluated the cytotoxicity against cancer cells, the antinflammatory activity and the oral acute toxicity in rats. Acurí oil contains lauric acid as the predominant saturated fatty acid (433.26 mg/g) and oleic acid as the main unsaturated fatty acid (180.06 mg/g). The Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules showed a size of 237 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.260, and a high ζ-potential of -78.75 mV. It was obtained an encapsulation efficiency of 88.77%, and the nanocapsules remain stable on the shelf for 180 days. The nanocapsules showed a rapid release profile (98.25% in 40 minutes). Nanocapsules at a dose of 10 mg/kg exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect similar to indomethacin at the same dose. The nanocapsules showed excellent antiproliferative effect and selectivity index against prostate tumor cells (IC50 2.09 µg/mL, SI=119.61) and kidney tumor cells (IC50 3.03 µg/mL, SI=82.50). Both Acurí oil and Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules are nontoxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg. Additionally, they reduce serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels in rat and could find application in nutraceutical formulations. The Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules emerge as a promising candidate for new antitumor therapies.

Clinicopathological characteristics of endometrial carcinomas according to DNA mismatch repair protein status.

DNA mismatch repair protein deficiency (MMRd) in endometrial carcinoma is associated with the risk of Lynch syndrome and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. It is also related to microsatellite instability and corresponds to a molecular subtype of endometrial tumor with an unclear prognosis. Here, we evaluated the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of 312 consecutive endometrial carcinoma cases submitted to complete surgical staging at a single institution. We compared MMRd and mismatch repair protein-proficient (MMRp) tumors and examined the effects of the MMR protein loss type (MLH1/PMS2 vs. MSH2/MSH6) and influence of L1CAM and p53 expression. The median follow-up period was 54.5 (range, 0-120.5) months. No difference was observed between MMRd [n = 166 (37.2%)] and MMRp [n = 196 (62.8%)] cases in terms of age, body mass index, FIGO stage, tumor grade, tumor size, depth of myometrial infiltration, or lymph node metastasis. More MMRd than MMRp tumors had endometrioid histology (87.9% vs. 75.5%) and despite MMRd had more lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI; 27.2% vs. 16.9%), they presented fewer recurrences and no difference in lymph node metastasis and disease-related death. Relative to those with MLH1/MSH6 loss, tumors with MSH2/MSH6 loss were diagnosed at earlier FIGO stages, were smaller, and had less ≥50% myometrial invasion, LVSI and lymph node metastasis. Outcomes, however, did not differ between these groups. L1CAM positivity and mutation-type p53 expression were more common in MMRp than in MMRd tumors and did not differ between the MLH1/PMS2 and MSH2/MSH6 loss groups. In the entire cohort, L1CAM and mutation p53 expression were associated with worse prognosis, but only non-endometrioid histology, FIGO stage III/IV, and deep myometrial infiltration were significant predictors. In the subgroup of endometrioid carcinomas, only FIGO stage III/IV was associated with poor outcomes. The risk of lymph node metastasis was associated with tumor size, non-endometrioid histology, and multifocal LVSI. For MMRd tumors, only tumor size and myometrial invasion depth were predictive of lymph node involvement. In our cohort, MMRd tumors were associated with greater recurrence-free, but not overall, survival. The precise identification of MMRd status, present in a substantial proportion of endometrial cancer cases, is a challenge to be overcome for proper patient management. MMRd status serves as a marker for Lynch syndrome, and a significant number of these tumors are high risk and candidate to immunotherapy.

Natural Products as Modulators of Mitochondrial Dysfunctions Associated with Cardiovascular Diseases: Advances and Opportunities.

The mitochondria have an important role in modulating cell cycle progression, cell survival, and apoptosis. In the adult heart, the cardiac mitochondria have a unique spatial arrangement and occupy nearly one-third the volume of a cardiomyocyte, being highly efficient for converting the products of glucose or fatty acid metabolism into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In cardiomyocytes, the decline of mitochondrial function reduces ATP generation and increases the production of reactive oxygen species, which generates impaired heart function. This is because mitochondria play a key role in maintaining cytosolic calcium concentration and modulation of muscle contraction, as ATP is required to dissociate actin from myosin. Beyond that, mitochondria have a significant role in cardiomyocyte apoptosis because it is evident that patients who have cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have increased mitochondrial DNA damage to the heart and aorta. Many studies have shown that natural products have mitochondria-modulating effects in cardiac diseases, determining them as potential candidates for new medicines. This review outlines the leading plant secondary metabolites and natural compounds derived from microorganisms as modulators of mitochondrial dysfunctions associated with CVDs.

Evidence of the Cardioprotective Effects of Aloysia polystachya in Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Infarction in Rats.

Aloysia polystachya is a plant species that is widely used in Brazilian folk medicine for the treatment of different disorders that affect the cardiovascular system. The aim of the study was to investigate the cardioprotective effects of an ethanol-soluble fraction of A. polystachya (ESAP) on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats. Different groups of rats (n = 8) were orally treated with ESAP (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg), carvedilol (10 mg/kg), or vehicle (filtered water; 1 mL/100 g) for 7 days. Naive rats received no treatment. On the morning of day 6, acute myocardial infarction was induced by the acute oral administration of isoproterenol (100 mg/kg). On the morning of day 8, all rats underwent electrocardiography and transthoracic echocardiography. Blood samples were then collected, and serum levels of creatine kinase-MB fraction (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin T (cTNT) were quantified. ESAP significantly reduced electrocardiographic changes, improved the ventricular ejection fraction, and reduced serum levels of CK-MB and cTNT in infarcted rats. The cardioprotective effects of ESAP could be exploited as an effective tool against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats.

Análise epidemiológica dos casos de sífilis na gestação em Uberlândia (MG) de 2011 a 2020 / Epidemiological analysis of syphilis cases during pregnancy in Uberlândia (MG) from 2011 to 2020 / Análisis epidemiológico de casos de sífilis durante embarazo en Uberlândia (MG) de 2011 a 2020

Objetivo: analisar o perfil epidemiológico da sífilis nagestação, no período de 2011 a junho de 2020 e propor intervenções para o combate desta infecção. Método: trata-se de estudo epidemiológico descritivo de caráter quantitativo. Foram usados dados secundários provenientes do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN), no período de janeiro de 2011 a junho de 2020. Utilizou-se estatística descritiva para a análise das variáveis e avaliação de números brutos e frequência, com posterior cálculo da incidência dos casos de sífilis no município de Uberlândia. A partir da análise epidemiológica, criou-se propostas de intervenção visando a redução dos casos de sífilis na gestação. Resultados:houve 986 casos de sífilis na gestação registrados, com tendência crescente ao longo dos anos. Além disso, há um predomínio de detecção dos casos durante o terceiro trimestre de gestação, em gestantes com faixa etária entre 20 a 29 anos, de cor parda e com ensino fundamental incompleto. Conclusão: o cenário da sífilis na gestação é problemático no Brasil. Porém, esse aspecto pode ser melhor manejado com intervenções efetivas que contemplem: educação em saúde, triagem, garantia de tratamento e de acesso e capacitação dos profissionais de saúde.

Objective: to analyze the epidemiological profile of syphilis during pregnancy, from 2011 to June 2020 and to propose interventions to combat this infection. Method: this isa descriptive epidemiological study of a quantitative nature. Secondary data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) were used, from January 2011 to June 2020. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis of variables and evaluation of raw numbers and frequency, with subsequent calculation of the incidence of syphilis cases in the city of Uberlândia. Based on the epidemiological analysis, intervention proposals were created to reduce the number of syphilis cases during pregnancy. Results: there were 986 cases of syphilis during pregnancy recorded, with an increasing trend over the years. In addition, there is a predominance of detection of cases during the third trimester of pregnancy, in pregnant women aged between 20 and 29 years, of mixed race and with incomplete elementary education. Conclusion: the scenario of syphilis during pregnancy is problematic in Brazil. However, this aspect can be better managed with effective interventions that include: health education, screening, guarantee of treatment and access and training of health professionals.

Objetivo: analizar el perfil epidemiológico de la sífilis durante el embarazo, de 2011 a junio de 2020 y proponer intervenciones para combatir esta infección. Método: es un estudio epidemiológico descriptivo de carácter cuantitativo. Se utilizaron datos secundarios del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (SINAN), de enero de 2011 a junio de2020. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva para análisis de variables y evaluación de números brutos y frecuencia, con posterior cálculo de incidencia de casos de sífilis en la ciudad de Uberlândia. Con base en el análisis epidemiológico, se generaron propuestas para reducir el número de casos de sífilis durante el embarazo. Resultados: se registraron 986 casos de sífilis durante el embarazo, con tendencia creciente a lo largo de los años. Además, existe un predominio de detección de casos durante el tercer trimestre del embarazo, en gestantes de 20 a 29 años, de raza mestiza e instrucción primaria incompleta. Conclusión: el escenario de la sífilis durante el embarazo es problemático en Brasil. Sin embargo, este aspecto puede manejarse mejor con intervenciones efectivas que incluyan: educación en salud, tamizaje, garantía de tratamiento y acces y capacitación de los profesionales de salud.

MHC Class I Stability is Modulated by Cell Surface Sialylation in Human Dendritic Cells.

Maturation of human Dendritic Cells (DCs) is characterized by increased expression of antigen presentation molecules, and overall decreased levels of sialic acid at cell surface. Here, we aimed to identify sialylated proteins at DC surface and comprehend their role and modulation. Mass spectrometry analysis of DC's proteins, pulled down by a sialic acid binding lectin, identified molecules of the major human histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I), known as human leucocyte antigen (HLA). After desialylation, DCs showed significantly higher reactivity with antibodies specific for properly folded MHC-I-ß2-microglobulin complex and for ß2-microglobulin but showed significant lower reactivity with an antibody specific for free MHC-I heavy chain. Similar results for antibody reactivities were observed for TAP2-deficient lymphoblastoid T2 cells, which express HLA-A*02:01. Using fluorescent peptide specifically fitting the groove of HLA-A*02:01, instead of antibody staining, also showed higher peptide binding on desialylated cells, confirming higher surface expression of MHC-I complex. A decay assay showed that desialylation doubled the half-life of MHC-I molecules at cell surface in both DCs and T2 cells. The biological impact of DC´s desialylation was evaluated in co-cultures with autologous T cells, showing higher number and earlier immunological synapses, and consequent significantly increased production of IFN-γ by T cells. In summary, sialic acid content modulates the expression and stability of complex MHC-I, which may account for the improved DC-T synapses.

O cuidado aos portadores de sofrimento mental na atenção primária: uma prática interdisciplinar e multiprofissional / Care for carriers of mental suffering in primary care: an interdisciplinary and multiprofessional practice / El cuidado a los portadores de sufrimiento mental en la atención primaria: una práctica interdisciplinar y multiprofesionales

Objetivo: conhecer como é realizado o cuidado ao Portador de Transtorno Mental (PTM) nas Estratégias de Saúde da Família, verificando se os profissionais estão seguros da sua atuação. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, embasado na análise do discurso, realizado nas Estratégias da Saúde da Família de uma cidade da região norte de Minas Gerais; a coleta de dados realizou-se através de um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturada. Resultados: percebe-se que os profissionais se sentem inseguros para atuarem nessa área de concentração sendo levantados como dificultadores a deficiência na teoria científica e a desarticulação da rede, porém contraditório a esses surge uma nova expectativa: "o matriciamento" uma ferramenta implantada como apoio para a assistência que vem se tornando a principal arma para um cuidado mais holístico. Conclusão: há necessidade de reverter os défices na construção teórica científica dos profissionais da enfermagem assim como promover sua educação permanente

Objective: to know how Mental Disorder Care (MTP) is carried out in the Family Health Strategies, verifying that the professionals are sure of their performance. Methodology: this is a qualitative study, based on discourse analysis, carried out in the Family Health Strategies of a city in the northern region of Minas Gerais; the data collection was carried out through a semi-structured interview script. Results: it is noticed that the professionals feel insecure to act in this area of concentration being raised as a deficiency in the scientific theory and the disarticulation of the network, however contradictory to these arises a new expectation: "the matriciamento" a tool implanted as support for assistance that has become the main weapon for more holistic care. Conclusion: there is a need to reverse the deficits in the scientific theoretical construction of nursing professionals as well as to promote their permanent education

Objetivo: conocer cómo se realiza el cuidado al Portador de Trastorno Mental (PTM) en las Estrategias de Salud de la Familia, verificando si los profesionales están seguros de su actuación. Metodología: se trata de un estudio cualitativo, basado en el análisis del discurso, realizado en las Estrategias de Salud de la Familia de una ciudad de la región norte de Minas Gerais; la recolección de datos se realizó a través de un itinerario de entrevista semi estructurada. Resultados: se percibe que los profesionales se sienten inseguros para actuar en esa área de concentración siendo levantados como dificultadores la deficiencia en la teoría científica y la desarticulación de la red, pero contradictoria a ellos surge una nueva expectativa: "el matriciamiento" una herramienta implantada como apoyo para la asistencia que se está convirtiendo en la principal arma para un cuidado más holístico. Conclusión: hay necesidad de revertir los déficit en la construcción teórica científica de los profesionales de la enfermería así como promover su educación permanente

Fluorescein Angiography Findings in Children With Congenital Zika Syndrome.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the retinal and vasculature changes in infants with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) using fluorescein angiography (FA). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This consecutive case series included six infants with CZS. FA and color fundus imaging were performed under general anesthesia in both eyes of all infants using a contact widefield digital imaging system. All color fundus images were obtained using a 130° field of view lens, and the FA images were captured using either a 130° or 80° field of view lens. The immunoglobulin M antibody capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was positive for Zika virus in the cerebrospinal fluid samples of all infants. Other congenital infections were ruled out. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation age of the infants at the time of examination was 1.4 years ± 0.1 years (range: 1.3 years to 1.5 years). Contact fundus photographs showed macular abnormalities in seven eyes (58%) and retinal vasculature changes in two eyes (17%). FA detected macular abnormalities in all 12 eyes (100%) and retinal vasculature changes in five eyes (42%). The main retinal vasculature changes were peripheral avascularity in five eyes (42%) and microvasculature abnormalities in three eyes (25%). CONCLUSION: FA may be an important tool for detecting subtle macular and retinal vasculature changes in CZS. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:702-708.].

Vitexin inhibits inflammation in murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma.

Vitexin is an important component of various medicinal plants frequently used to treat asthma, such as Crataegus spp., Vitex spp., Passiflora spp., and Echinodorus spp. However, there is no information about the vitexin potential as anti-asthmatic. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the anti-hypersensitive activity of vitexin in a murine ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma model. Mice were sensitized to OVA by i.p. injection on days 1st and 10th, followed by a daily challenge with OVA using a nebulizer, from days 19th to 24th. Vitexin or dexamethasone were orally administered 1h before each OVA challenge. Vitexin attenuates migration induced by OVA-hypersensitivity of eosinophil, neutrophil, and mononuclear cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Histological analysis of the lungs shows that vitexin suppressed leukocyte infiltration, mucus production and pulmonary edema. Increases in Th2 cytokines in BALF in OVA-induced asthma is also attenuated by vitexin, as well as plasma levels of IgE. Overall, these results suggest that vitexin can suppress OVA-induced allergic inflammation in mice and provide a strong rationale for further developing vitexin as a candidate treatment for allergic hypersensitivity. These data corroborate the popular use of vitexin-rich plants for asthma treatment.

Hydroethanolic extract from Echinodorus scaber Rataj leaves inhibits inflammation in ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Echinodorus scaber, Alismataceae, is popularly known in Brazil as "chapéu-de-couro". The plant leaves are used by the population as decoction, infusion, or maceration in bottled spirits, to treat inflammatory respiratory diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of the hydroethanolic extract of leaves of Echinodorus scaber (HEEs) in allergic asthma. A phytochemical analysis of the extract was performed as well. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The leaves of Echinodorus scaber were prepared by maceration in 75% ethanol. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried out using basic classical methods, and the secondary metabolites detected in HEEs were analyzed and confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of HEEs was evaluated in Swiss male albino mice sensitized and challenged by OVA. The HEEs (1, 5 and 30mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to mice twice a day, 1h before the challenge, from days 19 through 24. The mechanism of action of HEEs was studied by evaluating the levels of TH2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and IgE production in blood plasma. Histopathological changes triggered by OVA-sensitization/challenge in the lung tissue were also investigated. RESULTS: HEEs reduced total leukocyte, eosinophil, neutrophil, and mononuclear cell counts at all doses tested, with maximum effect at 30mg/kg (73.9%, 75.9%, 75.5%, and 65.2% reduction, p<0.001, respectively). Increases in TH2 cytokine secretion (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) and in IgE levels were also attenuated by HEEs. Preliminary phytochemical screening seems to indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and alkaloids. HPLC analyses evidenced the presence of phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid, rutin and vitexin. CONCLUSION: Our findings provided pharmacological preclinical evidence for the popular use of the leaves of Echinodorus scaber in allergic inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory effect was dependent on the decrease in migratory inflammatory cells, and both TH2 cytokines and IgE levels. It is suggested that vitexin, gallic acid and rutin, known anti-inflammatory compounds, may participate in the anti-asthamtic effect of the HEEs, by acting jointly along with other components present in the extract.

Mandevilla longiflora (Desf.) Pichon improves airway inflammation in a murine model of allergic asthma.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Mandevilla longiflora, popularly known as "velame" in central Brazil, is a subshrub widely distributed in South America. Its xylopodium is used in the form of a decoction or infusion to treat inflammation and other ailments. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of M. longiflora in an in vivo model of ovalbumin-induced immediate hypersensitivity, identifying its effects on leukocyte infiltration, IgE and LTB4 levels, and Th2 cytokine production. In addition, HPLC fingerprint of the extract was performed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The hydroethanolic extract 70% of M. longiflora (HEMI) was obtained by maceration of the plant xylopodium. Swiss mice were sensitized by i.p. injection OVA-aluminium hydroxide on days 1 and 10. Nine days after the last sensitisation animals were challenged for 6 consecutive days with OVA solution for 20min daily in a closed chamber under continuous flow of aerosol. The animals were treated with HEMl (20, 50 and 200mg/kg p.o.), 2 times per day, and euthanized 24h later. Animals treated with vehicle (2% Tween-20) or dexamethasone were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. The recruitment of inflammatory cells into the pulmonary cavity was evaluated by counting cells present in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Lung tissue was also collected for histopathology and infiltration analysis. Quantification of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 from the BALF, and IgE, and LTB4 from plasma, were conducted by immunoassay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The HEMl attenuated leukocyte migration into the airways, which was evidenced by a decrease in eosinophils, neutrophils and mononuclear cells, both in BALF quantification and by histopathological analysis, as well as decreasing the concentrations of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IgE and LTB4. All of these events are typical of air-mucosa inflammatory disease. These findings scientifically evidence for the first time the ethnopharmacological use of M. longiflora to treat chronic inflammatory events, such as asthma, and suggest a potential therapeutic use or complementary therapy for this plant extract.

A participação masculina no planejamento familiar / Male participation on family planning

O programa de Planejamento Familiar foi implementado oficialmente no Brasil em 1984, com objetivo de articular ações que visam a liberdade do casal em decidir o número de filhos que podem ou querem ter. Este trabalho objetivou conhecer os motivos pelos quais a população masculina não participa do Planejamento Familiar e compreender o significado do Planejamento Familiar para homens adultos em idade reprodutiva, casados ou em união consensual. Trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa, realizada com sete homens, que tinham suas companheiras cadastradas no Programa de Planejamento Familiar, em duas equipes de Saúde da família na cidade de Montes Claros. A análise dos dados possibilitou chegar às seguintes categorias: (1) Distanciamento dos serviços de saúde; (2) Desconhecimento acerca do planejamento familiar e (3) Feminização do cuidado. Os achados revelaram a inexistência de atividades que possam incitar a participação masculina no planejamento familiar com suas parceiras, uma vez que essa inserção é recente e desconhecida pelo público masculino. É preciso ampliar o diálogo e reorganizar as estratégias de planejamento e gestão para encorajar e conferir a devida importância que os homens possuem nesse cenário de diálogo e decisões sobre a própria família.

The Family Planning program was officially implemented in Brazil in 1984, aiming to articulate actions that aim at the freedom of the couple to decide the number of children they can or want to have. This study aimed to know the reasons why the male population does not participate in Family Planning and understand the meaning of Family Planning for adult males of reproductive age, married or in a consensual union. This is a qualitative research, carried out with seven men, who had their companions enrolled in the Family Planning Program, in two Family Health teams in the city of Montes Claros. Data analysis made it possible to reach the following categories: (1) Distancing of health services; (2) Lack of knowledge about family planning and (3) Feminization of care. The findings revealed the inexistence of activities that may incite male participation in family planning with their partners, since this insertion is recent and unknown by the male audience. It is necessary to broaden the dialogue and reorganize the planning and management strategies to encourage and give due importance that men have in this scenario of dialogue and decisions about the family itself.

Estudo colaborativo nacional para o estabelecimento do material de referência de trabalho da vacina contra sarampo, caxumba e rubéola: evolução para a autossuficência na produção nacional da vacina tríplice viral / National collaborative study for establishing the working reference material of the vaccine against measles/mumps and rubella: evolution to the self-sufficiency in the national production of triple viral vaccine

A monografia farmacopeica da vacina tríplice viral (sarampo/caxumba/rubéola) exige a validação de desempenho do ensaio de potência utilizando-se apropriado material de referência (MR). Com o intuito de estabelecer o primeiro MR de trabalho (MRT) nacional para a vacina tríplice viral, foi realizado o estudo colaborativo nacional com a participação de duas únicas instituições que executam o ensaio de potência desta vacina, o Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos, produtor nacional) e o Instituto Nacional de Controle de Qualidade em Saúde.O material candidato (cMRTBio), preparado pelo produtor, foi avaliado pelos laboratórios participantes utilizando-se as respectivas metodologias in-house de determinação de potência. O cMRTBio foi considerado apropriado como MR in-house por estar em concordância com as especificações recomendadas nas normativas de compêndios, a saber: variações intra- (< 5 %), inter-ensaios (< 10 %) e entre laboratórios (< 10 %) abaixo dos limites aceitáveis; e potência estimada (log10 CCID50/DH) em 3,72 para sarampo, 4,80 para caxumba e 3,70 para rubéola. Este trabalho reflete o compromisso do único produtor nacional da vacina tríplice viral com a saúde pública, descrevendo-se a expansão da tecnologia, o cumprimento às diretrizes internacionais, o cuidado com o controle da qualidade e culminância para a autossuficiência nacional na produção de vacinas.

The pharmacopoeia monograph for the measles/mumps and rubella (MMR) triple vaccine demands to perform the validation of the potency assay by using the suitable reference material (MR). Aiming at establishing the firstwork MR (MRT) for the MMR triple vaccine, a national collaborative study was performed with the participation of the two unique national institutions working on the vaccine potency evaluation test, the Imunobiological Technology Institute (Bio-Manguinhos, national manufacturer) and the National Institute for Quality Control in Health. The candidate product (cMRTBio) prepared by the manufacturer was evaluated by the participant laboratories by employing the respective in-house methodologies for determining the potency. The cMRTBio was considered suitable as in-house MR, according to the specifications based on the normative compendia, being the intra-assay (< 5 %), inter-assay(< 10 %) and between laboratories variations (< 10 %) below the acceptable limits, and the estimate potency(log10 CCID50/DH) in 3.72 for measles, 4.80 for mumps and 3.70 for rubella. This study reflects the commitment of the unique national MMR vaccine producer to the public health, describing the expansion of technology,the compliance with international guidelines and the careful quality control, leading to the national self-sufficiency in the vaccine production.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory and mechanism of action of extract of Macrosiphonia longiflora (Desf.) Müll. Arg.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Macrosiphonia longiflora (Desf.) Müll. Arg (Apocynaceae), popularly known as 'velame' and 'velame branco', is a native subshrub that grows in the Brazilian Cerrado. This plant is widely used in traditional medicine in the form of decoction and infusion, particularly as anti-inflammatory, depurative, anti-rheumatic, antisyphilitic and antiulcer remedy. There is no available information in the literature that has addressed its pharmacological activity and phytochemical analysis. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory pharmacological profile of the hydroethanolic extract of Macrosiphonia longiflora, using in vivo and in vitro acute inflammation experimental models, as well as investigate the roles of cytokines and nitric oxide in its mechanism of action, and including phytochemical analysis constitution of its hydroethanolic extract. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hydroethanolic (70%) extract of Macrosiphonia longiflora (HEMl) was prepared by maceration. The preliminary phytochemical analysis was performed according to procedures described in the literature. Selected secondary metabolites detected were quantified by spectrophotometry and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Its cytotoxic potential in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-k1) epithelial cell lines was evaluated using Alamar Blue. in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated with carrageenan- and dextran-induced paw edemas, carrageenan-induced pleurisy in rats and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peritonitis in mice. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with LPS and interferon (INF)-γ. Effects of HEMl on the inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-10, IL-17, INF-γ and TNF-α) concentrations in the peritoneal lavage were evaluated using commercial ELISA kits, while the Griess method was employed to determine nitric oxide (NO) concentrations in the peritoneal lavage, as well as in the supernatants of RAW 264.7 cells. RESULTS: Preliminary phytochemical analysis, revealed the presence of phenolics compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids and flavonoids. Spectrophotometric analysis revealed the presence of relatively high content of phenolics and flavonoids in HEMl. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of the quantified compounds and demonstrated the presence of ellagic acid in the detected matrix of compounds. HEMl appeared to be non-cytotoxic. It effectively inhibited (p<0.05) paw edema induced by carrageenan and dextran. Furthermore, HEMl also significantly reduced exudates volume and leukocyte migration in the carrageenan-induced pleurisy and LPS-induced peritonitis, neutrophils counts in LPS-induced peritonitis. HEMl also acts by effectively inhibiting the following inflammatory cytokines: IL-1ß and IL-10 levels in the peritoneal lavage, but had no effect on IL-17 level in the peritonitis model. In addition, HEMl had no effect on the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) present in the peritoneal lavage and cells supernatants. The concentration of NO, as assessed by measurement of nitrite (NO2(-)), showed that pretreatment with HEMl reduced NO significantly in the peritoneal lavage and in RAW 264.7 cells co-stimulated with LPS and INF-γ. CONCLUSION: The results obtained in this study indicate that HEMl possesses very low cytotoxic potential. In addition, it demonstrated a potent anti-inflammatory activity in both the in vivo and in vitro models of acute inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effect is partly related to the inhibition of IL-1ß, IL-10, and nitric oxide releases, but independent of TNF-α and IL-17 modulation. Phytochemical analysis revealed the predominant presence of the flavonoids (naringin, rutin, myricetin, morin, quercetin, (±)-naringenin, and luteolin) and phenols (ellagic acid), which are possibly involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of HEMl. The current study provided supportive evidence for the popular use of HEMl in the treatment of inflammatory conditions, and shed more light on the possible roles of the inflammatory cytokines in its mechanisms of action as anti-inflammatory agent.

Estimativa do potencial produtivo em trigo utilizando sensor óptico ativo para adubação nitrogenada em taxa variável / Wheat yield potential estimation using active optical sensor for site-specific nitrogen fertilization

A adubação nitrogenada em trigo é baseada no potencial produtivo da cultura, teor de matéria orgânica do solo e cultura antecessora. A definição do potencial produtivo é complexa, pois este varia com as condições meteorológicas de cada ano específico. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a relação entre o índice de vegetação por diferença normalizada (NDVI), medido por sensor óptico ativo e o rendimento de grãos em quatro cultivares de trigo, visando a desenvolver procedimentos para a adubação nitrogenada em cobertura em taxa variável. O experimento foi realizado em campo em 2009. Foram avaliados o NDVI em diferentes estádios de desenvolvimento e o rendimento de grãos. As leituras do NDVI ao longo do ciclo ativo foram eficientes em identificar variações de produtividade do trigo. Assim, o potencial de produtividade pode ser estimado através de medições desse índice durante a ontogenia da planta. Pode-se adotar um modelo único para descrever a relação entre NDVI e potencial produtivo para as cultivares testadas neste trabalho.

Nitrogen fertilization in spring wheat is based on yield potential, soil organic matter content and previous crop. Yield potential definition is difficult, since it is affected by weather conditions. The objective of this research was to evaluate the relationship between Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) measured by an active sensor and grain yield of four wheat cultivars. The experiment was carried out at field conditions in 2009. NDVI in different growth stages and grain yield were evaluated. NDVI measured was efficient to detect growth variability generated by N availability and correlated well with grain yield for all cultivars tested, indicating that yield potential can be estimated by NDVI evaluations during crop ontogeny. One single model for the relationship between NDVI and yield potential can be used considering cultivars used in this research.

Evaluation of antiulcer activity and mechanism of action of methanol stem bark extract of Lafoensia pacari A. St.-Hil. (Lytraceae) in experimental animals.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lafoensia pacari St.-Hil. is a tree native to the Brazilian Cerrado. Its bark macerate is popularly used in Brazilian folk medicine for the treatment of peptic ulcer, wound healing and inflammation. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the antiulcer activities of the methanol extract of Lafoensia pacari (MELP) and possible mechanisms of actions involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The stem bark of Lafoensia pacari was macerated in methanol to obtain the crude methanol extract of Lafoensia pacari (MELP). The gastroprotective and ulcer healing of MELP were evaluated using ethanol, indomethacin, cold-restraint stress-induced (acute) and acetic acid (chronic) ulcer models. The probable mode of action of MELP was also evaluated by determining intestinal transit, involvement of non-protein sulfhyhydryls (NP-SH), gastric mucus secretion, gastric secretory parameters and pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-17 (IL-17). Phytochemical analysis was carried out using classical methods and ellagic acid, one of the most important pharmacological active compounds was confirmed by HPLC. RESULTS: The results of the pharmacological studies on MELP demonstrated potent and effective gastroprotection against ethanol, indomethacin and cold stress-induced acute ulcers and ulcer healing in acetic acid induced chronic ulcer. MELP had no significant effect on the intestinal motility and it is also independent of mucus production but rather have a mucolytic effect. In pylorus-ligated rats the extract showed anti-secretory activity by decreasing total gastric juice volume and gastric acidity while increasing the gastric pH. The gastroprotection against ethanol is partially attributed to effective attenuation in the decrease in NP-SH levels, inhibition of the increases in the pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-17. Phytochemical analysis of MELP revealed the presence of pyrrogalic tannins, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids and simple phenols, with ellagic acid being the major components. CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that MELP possesses preventive and curative effects against gastric ulcer in experimental animals. These effects are partly dependent on its anti-oxidant, anti-secretory properties and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and independent of gastric/intestinal motility and mucus secretion. Ellagic acid, a compound of proven antiulcer activity, was found in MELP as the major component. These results confirmed the traditional use of MELP in Brazilian popular medicine for the treatment of gastric ulcers and shed some light on some of its mechanisms of action.

Evaluation of lipid profile and oxidative stress in STZ-induced rats treated with antioxidant vitamin

The present study investigated the effect of supplementation of vitamin E on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats by measuring blood glucose, changes in body weight, food and water intake, lipid profile, serum urea and creatinine level, and antioxidant enzyme activity. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control rats (GI); rats receiving vitamin E (GII); STZ-induced diabetic rats (GIII) and STZ-induced diabetic rats treated with vitamin E (GIV). Vitamin E reduced (p<0.05) blood glucose and urea, improved the lipid profile (decreased the serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols, and increased HDL cholesterol) and increased total protein in STZ-induced diabetic rats (GIV). Vitamin prevented changes in the activity of SOD and GSH-Px and in the concentration of lipid hydroperoxide. These results suggested that vitamin E improved hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia while inhibiting the progression of oxidative stress in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Dança e ciência: uma análise dos processos de criação do espetáculo ?Transições? da Companhia de Dança Contemporânea da UFRJ / Dance and Science: an analysis of the creative process behind ?Transitions?, a show by Contemporary Dance Company of UFRJ

This study proposes an esthetic reflection on the influence of the biological sciences on dance as a variety of contemporary art. The relationship between science and art in this study is grounded on François Dagognet?s hyperphenomenology, particularly his representation of the major role played by the image-symbol as essential base of present-day scientific activity [1]. Contemporary dance creators and companies such as Wayne Mac Gregor, Phylobolus Dance Company and Liz Lerman Dance Exchange are analyzed, in order to highlight how some biosciences themes are explored as creative potentials in their dance performances [2,3,4]. We aim at relating biological shapes and patterns existing in the cellular and molecular universe with the fundamentals of dance described by Helenita Sá Earp. Earp?s conception posits dance as wide-scoped knowledge, including a ?science of dance? where intuition works as basic foundation and its epistemology is made of an open type of knowledge named ?dance parameters?, namely motion, space, shape, dynamics and time. These parameters allow establishing access points for multiple connections within the realm of dance. This approach tends to generate a kind of access to body actions stimulating interdisciplinarity between several areas of knowledge [4]. As study-case, we focus methodologically on the processes of esthetic creation involved in the production of a multimedia show entitled ?Transitions? by appealing to biochemical notions, especially some features of cytology and cellular morphology, cell proliferation and processes of cellular transportation [5].(AU)

A proposta desta pesquisa é de refletir estéticamente sobre a influência das ciências biológicas na dança como forma de arte contemporânea. Relacionamos ciência e arte a partir da hiperfenomenologia de François Dagognet nos sentido de mostrar o papel primordial que faz da imagem-símbolo o fundamento primordial da atividade científica da atualidade[1]. Fazemos um análise de criadores e companhias de dança contemporânea, como por exemplo: Wayne Mac Gregor, a Phylobolus Dance Company e a Liz Lerman Dance Exchange no sentido de evidenciar de que forma são explorados temas presentes nas biociências como potencial criador em seus espetáculos de dança[2,3,4]. Neste contexto, buscamos relacionar formas e padrões biológicos presentes no universo celular e molecular com os Fundamentos da Dança propostos por Helenita Sá Earp. A concepção de Earp propõe a dança como conhecimento amplo, isto é, que envolva uma ?ciência da dança? cuja intuição seja o fundamento básico e que sua epistemologia seja feita por conhecimentos abertos denominados Parâmetros da Dança: Movimento, Espaço, Forma, Dinâmica e Tempo. Parâmetros que permitem estabelecer pontos de entrada para o estabelecimento de coneções múltiplas na dança. Esta compreessão tende a gerar uma espécie de acesso as ações corporais que estimula a interdisciplinaridade entre diferentes áreas do conhecimento[4]. Como estudo de caso, enfocamos metodologicamente processos de criação estética na montagem de um espetáculo multimídia de dança intitulado ?Transições? a partir de noções advindas da bioquímica, notadamente, em aspectos da citologia e morfologia celular, proliferação celular e processos celulares de transporte[5].(AU)

Genotoxicity of corrosion eluates obtained from orthodontic brackets in vitro.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether corrosion eluates obtained from commercially available orthodontic brackets are able to induce genetic damage in vitro. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Genotoxicity was assessed by the single cell gel (comet) assay using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. The following orthodontic metallic brackets were used: Morelli (Sorocaba, Brazil); Abzil (São José do Rio Preto, Brazil); Dentaurum (Pforzheim, Germany); and 3M Unitek (Puchheim, Germany). Each dental bracket was submitted to a corrosion process in a solution containing equal amounts of acetic acid and sodium chloride at 0.1 M concentration for 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 35, and 70 days. CHO cells were exposed to eluates for 30 minutes at 37°C. The negative control was treated with the same solution used for corrosion process for 30 minutes at 37°C. Independent positive control was performed with methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) (Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo) at 1 ug/mL for 1 hour. RESULTS: None of the eluates was found to exhibit genotoxicity, regardless of the different commercial brands of orthodontic appliance used. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, our results indicate corrosion eluates obtained from orthodontic brackets do not induce genetic damage as assessed by single cell gel (comet) assay.