Signatures of CD4+ T and B cells are associated with distinct stages of chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy.

Introduction: Chagas disease is a neglected parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. While most patients are asymptomatic, around 30% develop Chronic Chagasic Cardiomyopathy (CCC). Methods: Here, we employed high-dimensional flow cytometry to analyze CD4+ T and B cell compartments in patients during the chronic phase of Chagas disease, presenting the asymptomatic and mild or moderate/severe cardiac clinical forms. Results: Effector CD27-CD4+ T cells were expanded in both CCC groups, and only mild CCC patients showed higher frequencies of effector memory and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells than healthy donors (CTL) and asymptomatic patients. Unsupervised analysis confirmed these findings and further revealed the expansion of a specific subpopulation composed of Tfh, transitional, and central memory CD4+ T cells bearing a phenotype associated with strong activation, differentiation, and exhaustion in patients with mild but not moderate/severe CCC. In contrast, patients with mild and moderate/severe CCC had lower frequencies of CD4+ T cells expressing lower levels of activation markers, suggesting resting status, than CTL. Regarding the B cell compartment, no alterations were found in naïve CD21-, memory cells expressing IgM or IgD, marginal zone, and plasma cells in patients with Chagas disease. However, expansion of class-switched activated and atypical memory B cells was observed in all clinical forms, and more substantially in mild CCC patients. Discussion: Taken together, our results showed that T. cruzi infection triggers changes in CD4+ T and B cell compartments that are more pronounced in the mild CCC clinical form, suggesting an orchestrated cellular communication during Chagas disease. Conclusion: Overall, these findings reinforce the heterogeneity and complexity of the immune response in patients with chronic Chagas disease and may provide new insights into disease pathology and potential markers to guide clinical decisions.

Costic acid, a sesquiterpene from Nectandra barbellata (Lauraceae), attenuates sponge implant-induced inflammation, angiogenesis and collagen deposition in vivo.

Sesquiterpenes are a class of metabolites derived from plant species with immunomodulatory activity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of treatment with costic acid on inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis induced by subcutaneous sponge implants in mice. One sponge disc per animal was aseptically implanted in the dorsal region of the mice and treated daily with costic acid (at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 µg diluted in 10 µL of 0.5% DMSO) or 0.5% DMSO (control group). After 9 days of treatment, the animals were euthanized, and the implants collected for further analysis. Treatment with costic acid resulted in the reduction of the inflammatory parameters evaluated compared to the control group, with a decrease in the levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (TNF, CXCL-1, and CCL2) and in the activity of MPO and NAG enzymes. Costic acid administration altered the process of mast cell degranulation. We also observed a reduction in angiogenic parameters, such as a decrease in the number of blood vessels, the hemoglobin content, and the levels of VEGF and FGF cytokines. Finally, when assessing implant-induced fibrogenesis, we observed a reduction in the levels of the pro-fibrogenic cytokine TGF-ß1, and lower collagen deposition. The results of this study demonstrate, for the first time, the anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic effects of costic acid in an in vivo model of chronic inflammation and reinforce the therapeutic potential of costic acid.

The seasonality as a relevant aspect to be considered for differential diagnosis of Trypanosoma vivax infection and co-infections in female cattle.

Bovine Trypanosomiasis and other infectious diseases cause relevant loss for the livestock industry impacting productive/reproductive indices. This study intended to better understand the frequency, seasonality, and profile of infections associated with Bovine Trypanosomiasis. A total of 1443 serum samples were screened for T. vivax infection and other infectious diseases: Neosporosis, Leptospirosis, Bovine Leukosis Virus infection/(BLV), Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis/(IBR) or Bovine Viral Diarrhea/(BVD). Distinct methods were used for screening and diagnosis: immunofluorescence assay (Trypanosomiasis), ELISA (Neosporosis,BLV,IBR,BVD) and microscopic agglutination test (Leptospirosis). Our findings demonstrated that the seropositivity for Trypanosomiasis=57% was similar to Neosporosis=55%, higher than Leptospirosis=39% and BVL=34%, but lower than IBR=88% and BVD=71%. The seropositivity for Trypanosomiasis was higher in the autumn and lower in the winter. Regardless the season, the IBR seropositivity (min=73%;max=95%) was higher than Trypanosomiasis (min=48%;max=68%). Moreover, Neosporosis (min=71%;max=100%) and BVD (min=65%;max=76%) were more frequent than Trypanosomiasis in the summer, winter and spring. The diagnosis outcome revealed that Trypanosomiasis&IBR=43% and Trypanosomiasis&Neosporosis=35% were the most frequent co-infections with higher seropositivity in the autumn (58%) and summer (80%), respectively. Noteworthy, high seropositivity to Trypanosomiasis&BVD was registered in the autumn (46%). Together, our data re-enforce the relevance of differential diagnosis between Trypanosomiasis with other bovine infectious diseases and that differences in the seasonality profile is a relevant aspect to be considered while selecting the differential diagnosis to be applied.

Immune response profiles from humans experimentally exposed to Phlebotomus duboscqi bites.

Introduction: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected vector-borne parasitic disease prevalent in 92 countries with approximately one million new infections annually. Interactions between vector saliva and the human host alter the response to infection and outcome of disease. Methods: To characterize the human immunological responses developed against saliva of Phlebotomus duboscqi, a Leishmania major (L. major) vector, we repeatedly exposed the arms of 14 healthy U.S volunteers to uninfected P. duboscqi bites. Blood was collected a week after each exposure and used to assess total IgG antibodies against the proteins of P. duboscqi salivary gland homogenate (SGH) and the levels of IFN-gamma and IL-10 from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with SGH or recombinant sand fly proteins. We analyzed skin punch biopsies of the human volunteer arms from the insect bite site and control skin site after multiple P. duboscqi exposures (four volunteers) using immunohistochemical staining. Results: A variety of immediate insect bite skin reactions were observed. Late skin reactions to insect bites were characterized by macular hyperpigmentation and/or erythematous papules. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed moderate mononuclear skin infiltrate with eosinophils in those challenged recently (within 2 months), eosinophils were not seen in biopsies with recall challenge (6 month post bites). An increase in plasma antigen-specific IgG responses to SGH was observed over time. Western Blot results showed strong plasma reactivity to five P. duboscqi salivary proteins. Importantly, volunteers developed a cellular immunity characterized by the secretion of IFN-gamma upon PBMC stimulation with P. duboscqi SGH and recombinant antigens. Discussion: Our results demonstrate that humans mounted a local and systemic immune response against P. duboscqi salivary proteins. Specifically, PduM02/SP15-like and PduM73/adenosine deaminase recombinant salivary proteins triggered a Th1 type immune response that might be considered in future development of a potential Leishmania vaccine.

Birth weight and nutritional status in school-age children from Boane city, Mozambique.

BACKGROUND: Birth weight is considered an important marker of inadequate maternal nutrition, and it is a critical indicator of the newborn's health and development. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of low birth weight (LBW) on body composition in 7-10-year-old school children from Boane City-Mozambique. METHODS: A total of 220 children (female = 122 and male = 98) were divided into two groups according to their birth weight (LBW, n = 41; and normal birth weight, NBW, n = 179). Anthropometric indicators of nutritional status were analyzed by the indices weight-for-age, height-for-age, BMI-for-age, and weight-for-height. RESULTS: LBW children showed reduced skinfolds, and weight-for-height when compared to NBW children. Birth weight was positively associated with all anthropometric variables, except for BMI, which was not associated with any other variable. The r2 value ranged from .09 (weight-for-age) to .72 (height-for-age). For body composition variables, older children had higher fat mass (ß = .26; 95% CI = 0.05-0.48) and fat-free mass (ß = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.71-1.48), and boys had lower fat percentage (ß = -3.49; 95% CI = -4.35 to -2.65) and fat mass (ß = -.92; 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.55) than girls. Birth weight was also positively associated with fat-free mass. CONCLUSION: LBW seems to influence some growth indicators of children living in Boane, however, current environmental factors seem to weaken this association. Our results suggest that public policies involving healthy nutrition and physical activity can reverse the effects of low weight in children from Boane.

Temporomandibular joint disorders in skeletal class II patients referred to orthognathic surgery: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) in subjects with skeletal class II dentofacial deformity referred for orthognathic surgery, as well as to elucidate its association with sociodemographic and psychosocial features. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. The sample comprised class II skeletal patients referred to an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery center in the Brazilian Northeast. RESULTS: Seventy-three subjects were enrolled and completed the data collection, which consisted of a physical examination according to Axis I of the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders and facial analysis. Women represented 82.2% of the sample. Among the assessed subjects, 68.5% were already undergoing orthodontic treatment, and the mean overjet of patients was 6.97 mm. The prevalence of TMD in this sample was 46.6%, with muscular disorders being the most common. Patients with an anteroposterior discrepancy greater than 7 mm showed a higher occurrence of TMD (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of TMD in skeletal class II patients referred for orthognathic surgery, especially in those with a pronounced overjet, being Group I (muscular disorders) and Group III (degenerative disorders) the most prevalent.

Assessment of bulk-fill of resins microhardness longitudinal

Aim: This study aimed to assess the polymerization effectiveness of bulk-fill composite resins in longitudinal microhardness. Methods: Blocks of bulk-fill composite resin with thicknesses of 6 mm were analyzed with Vickers microhardness. The resin blocks were divided into two groups (n=6): resin AURA and OPUS. The microhardness test was performed before (base and top) and after (longitudinal microhardness) sectioning the blocks at distances of 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm from the top of the block. The mean microhardness values were tabulated and subjected to ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (p<0.05). Results: The OPUS bulk-fill resin samples presented microhardness means of 55.9 kgf/mm2, 53.7 kgf/mm2, and 49.3 kgf/mm2, the AURA bulk-fill resin samples presented microhardness means of 57,02 kgf/mm2, 55,86 kgf/mm2 e 51,77 kgf/mm2 for the distances of 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm, respectively. Tukey's statistical test showed a significant difference in microhardness values at different distances of 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm (p<0.001) for each resin. Although there was a statistically significant difference within and between the groups assessed, all samples showed polymerization effectiveness when comparing the top and base of the block. Conclusion: Polymerization was effective in different thicknesses (2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm) in both resins studied. The microhardness ratio was adequate when comparing the base and top

Modeling the larvae dispersion of sun coral in the Brazil current off Cape Frio: A cyclonic eddy scenario.

The study aims to understand the dispersal patterns of non-indigenous Tubastraea spp. (Sun Coral) larvae in the Brazil Current (BC), specifically in the Cape Frio recurrent cyclonic eddy (CFE) scenario. For this, the Regional Ocean Model System was used to simulate the hydrodynamic fields in a high-resolution nested grid, where a model of lagrangian floats, in a good approximation of the larvae properties and considering massive planulation events, was coupled with surface larval release from the Campos Basin area. The simulation was representative of mesoscale features compared to similar studies, ARGO vertical profiles and a py-eddy-track algorithm was used to obtain eddy variables, such as radius, rotational and translational velocities. These parameters are fundamental to access when an eddy tends to trap or not the water, heat and plankton in its interior. CFE turned out to be highly nonlinear, with a strong tendency to trap larvae in its core, acting as a dispersal constrictor when compared with the organisms in the axis of the higher speed of BC. A strong negative correlation (-0.75) was found between the days that larvae were inside the eddy and their distance from the origin. None of the 48,000 larvae released during simulated experiment a 16-day spawning event reached the coast. There are two different patterns for the dispersal, one along the shelf break and another, with higher larval density, off from the 1000 m isobath. The CFE's presence allows larvae to remain in the same region for longer periods, although in offshore areas. Therefore, as there is considerable availability of fixed substrates on oil rig structures, larvae could settle on them resulting in a possible inter-platforms connectivity between populations of Tubastraea spp. Also, regions in the CFE that present downward vertical velocities (downwelling), may move young larvae to depths of about 60 m suggesting that subsurface colonizations are possible due to specific dynamics of propagating cyclonic eddies. So, identifying the main factors that affect the dispersion of propagules is essential to subsidize management policies for controlling bioinvasion associated with exploitation of hydrocarbon resources in offshore areas.

Prevalence of preconception health indicators among Brazilian women of reproductive age. / Prevalência dos indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional das mulheres brasileiras em idade reprodutiva.

This article aims to evaluate the performance of preconception health indicators according to sociodemographic characteristics among Brazilian women of reproductive age. We conducted a descriptive epidemiological study using data from 21,645 and 25,228 women, respectively, who responded the 2013 and 2019 national health surveys, and data for the period 2010 to 2020 derived from the national health system's Department of Informatics (DATASUS). We calculated the prevalence of indicators according to sociodemographic characteristics and statistical significance of differences was measured using Pearson's chi-squared test. Syphilis and HIV incidence rates were also calculated. There was an increase in the prevalence of access to health service indicators (medical and dental consultations and recent Pap smear). However, there was an increase in the prevalence of hypertension, alcohol use, and obesity. The prevalence of use of contraceptive methods and fertility treatment remained stable. Syphilis incidence increased sevenfold between 2010 and 2020. Black/brown women with a low level of education, higher parity, and living in the North or Northeast performed worse for preconception health indicators. Despite the increase in access to health services, performance on preconception health indicators declined and health inequities continued.

O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o desempenho de indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional das mulheres brasileiras em idade reprodutiva segundo as características sociodemográficas. Estudo epidemiológico e descritivo com dados de 21.645 e 25.228 mulheres que responderam à Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde de 2013 e 2019 e provenientes do DATASUS de 2010 a 2020. Estimou-se a prevalência de indicadores, segundo características sociodemográficas, e as diferenças estatísticas por meio do teste qui-quadrado de Pearson. Calculou-se a taxa de incidência dos indicadores de sífilis e HIV. Houve aumento da prevalência de indicadores que se referem ao acesso aos serviços de saúde (consultas médica, odontológica e realização de Papanicolau recente). Contudo, houve aumento da hipertensão, do consumo de álcool e da obesidade. Observou-se manutenção da prevalência do uso de contraceptivo e tratamento de fertilidade. Além disso, a taxa de incidência da sífilis aumentou sete vezes entre 2010-2020. Os resultados foram ainda piores entre mulheres de baixa escolaridade, pretas/pardas, com maior paridade e do Norte/Nordeste. Apesar do aumento no acesso aos serviços de saúde, houve piora do desempenho de indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional, e manutenção das iniquidades em saúde.

Prevalência dos indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional das mulheres brasileiras em idade reprodutiva / Prevalence of preconception health indicators among Brazilian women of reproductive age

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o desempenho de indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional das mulheres brasileiras em idade reprodutiva segundo as características sociodemográficas. Estudo epidemiológico e descritivo com dados de 21.645 e 25.228 mulheres que responderam à Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde de 2013 e 2019 e provenientes do DATASUS de 2010 a 2020. Estimou-se a prevalência de indicadores, segundo características sociodemográficas, e as diferenças estatísticas por meio do teste qui-quadrado de Pearson. Calculou-se a taxa de incidência dos indicadores de sífilis e HIV. Houve aumento da prevalência de indicadores que se referem ao acesso aos serviços de saúde (consultas médica, odontológica e realização de Papanicolau recente). Contudo, houve aumento da hipertensão, do consumo de álcool e da obesidade. Observou-se manutenção da prevalência do uso de contraceptivo e tratamento de fertilidade. Além disso, a taxa de incidência da sífilis aumentou sete vezes entre 2010-2020. Os resultados foram ainda piores entre mulheres de baixa escolaridade, pretas/pardas, com maior paridade e do Norte/Nordeste. Apesar do aumento no acesso aos serviços de saúde, houve piora do desempenho de indicadores de saúde pré-concepcional, e manutenção das iniquidades em saúde.

Abstract This article aims to evaluate the performance of preconception health indicators according to sociodemographic characteristics among Brazilian women of reproductive age. We conducted a descriptive epidemiological study using data from 21,645 and 25,228 women, respectively, who responded the 2013 and 2019 national health surveys, and data for the period 2010 to 2020 derived from the national health system's Department of Informatics (DATASUS). We calculated the prevalence of indicators according to sociodemographic characteristics and statistical significance of differences was measured using Pearson's chi-squared test. Syphilis and HIV incidence rates were also calculated. There was an increase in the prevalence of access to health service indicators (medical and dental consultations and recent Pap smear). However, there was an increase in the prevalence of hypertension, alcohol use, and obesity. The prevalence of use of contraceptive methods and fertility treatment remained stable. Syphilis incidence increased sevenfold between 2010 and 2020. Black/brown women with a low level of education, higher parity, and living in the North or Northeast performed worse for preconception health indicators. Despite the increase in access to health services, performance on preconception health indicators declined and health inequities continued.

Evaluating the effect of low-density inhomogeneities: A comparative study of lithium fluoride detectors, radiochromic films, and collapsed cone algorithm in 6 MV photon beams.

In recent years, there has been significant advancement in the development of physical simulators for dose evaluation. Many dosimetric studies employ solid materials, equivalent to human tissues, to evaluate dose distribution. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of inhomogeneity correction carried out by the Monaco/Elekta radiotherapy planning software. To achieve this goal, a physical simulator was created using cork boards to simulate lung tissue and solid water to represent other tissues. This simulator was combined with a dosimetric system that utilized lithium fluoride thermoluminescent detectors - RADOS MTS-N (LiF:Mg,Ti). The thermoluminescent detectors were positioned at various depths using a precisely drilled 2.0 mm thick acrylic plate, and they were placed at predefined positions. The irradiation of the simulator was conducted using an Elekta Synergy® Platform accelerator, employing a 6 MV photon beam with a field size of 15 × 15 cm2 and a source-surface distance (SSD) of 97.5 cm. A radiation dose of 200 cGy was applied for this study. In addition to the dosimetric assessment using thermoluminescent detectors, GAFCHROMIC™ EBT-3 Dosimetry Films were utilized to evaluate the dose at the same measurement points. The dose distribution data measured with the detectors were compared with the values provided by the planning system (TPS) and the inhomogeneity correction was verified. The results support the hypothesis that there is a lack of precision in the analytical simulations performed by the TPS, particularly in cases involving dose distribution at interfaces with varying densities.

[Contraceptive mix and factors associated with the type of method used by Brazilian women: a population-based cross-sectional study]. / Mix contraceptivo e fatores associados ao tipo de método usado pelas mulheres brasileiras: estudo transversal de base populacional.

This study aims to describe the contraceptive mix and analyze the factors associated with the type of contraceptive used by Brazilian women of reproductive age. This is a cross-sectional, population-based study with data from 19,962 women aged 15 to 49 years. The outcomes were use and type of contraceptive, classified as: short-acting reversible contraceptives (SARC), long-acting (LARC), and permanent. The explanatory variables were characteristics of reproductive history, sociodemographic history, and access to health services. Multinomial logistic regression was used for odds ratio (OR) estimates, with SARC being the reference category. The analyses were performed in the Survey module of the Stata software, which considered the effect of the complex sampling plan of the 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey. The prevalence of contraceptive use was 83.7%. Of the total number of users, 72% used SARC, 23.2% permanent methods, and 4.8% LARC. Women with higher education, health insurance, who had deliveries, and who participated in reproductive planning groups had a higher chance of using LARC when compared with the use of SARC, while registration at the basic health unit was associated with a lower chance of use. Still, the higher the age and parity, in addition to living with the partner, the greater the chance of using permanent methods in relation to the use of SARC. Despite the high coverage of contraception, the contraceptive mix remains obsolete, with a predominance of the use of SARC. In addition, important inequalities in access were observed, with LARC being accessible only to women with better socioeconomic conditions, while permanent methods were associated with a profile of greater social vulnerability.

O objetivo deste estudo é descrever o mix contraceptivo e analisar os fatores associados ao tipo de contraceptivo usado pelas mulheres brasileiras em idade reprodutiva. Trata-se de estudo transversal, de base populacional, com dados de 19.962 mulheres de 15 a 49 anos. Os desfechos foram uso e tipo de contraceptivo, classificados em: contraceptivos reversíveis de curta duração (SARC), longa duração (LARC) e permanentes. As variáveis explicativas foram: características da história reprodutiva, sociodemográficas e de acesso aos serviços de saúde. Utilizou-se a regressão logística multinomial para estimativas da odds ratio (OR), tendo os SARC como categoria de referência. As análises foram realizadas no módulo survey do software Stata, que considerou o efeito do plano amostral complexo da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde de 2019. A prevalência do uso de contraceptivos foi de 83,7%. Do total de usuárias, 72% usavam SARC, 23,2% métodos permanentes e 4,8%, LARC. Mulheres com maior escolaridade, plano de saúde, que tiveram partos e participaram de grupos de planejamento reprodutivo tiveram maior chance de usar LARC na comparação com o uso de SARC, enquanto o cadastro na unidade básica de saúde se associou a menor chance de uso. Ainda, quanto maior a idade e paridade, além de viver com o companheiro, maior a chance de usar métodos permanentes em relação ao uso de SARC. Apesar da elevada cobertura de contracepção, o mix contraceptivo permanece obsoleto, com predomínio do uso de SARC. Além disso, observou-se importante desigualdade de acesso, sendo os LARC acessíveis apenas por mulheres com melhores condições socioeconômicas, enquanto os métodos permanentes foram associados a um perfil de maior vulnerabilidade social.

El objetivo fue describir la combinación anticonceptiva y analizar los factores asociados al tipo de anticonceptivo usado por las mujeres brasileñas en edad reproductiva. Estudio transversal, de base poblacional, con datos de 19.962 mujeres de 15 a 49 años. Los resultados fueron el uso y el tipo de anticonceptivo, clasificados en: anticonceptivos reversibles de corta duración (SARC), de larga duración (LARC) y permanentes. Las variables explicativas fueron características de la historia reproductiva, sociodemográficas y de acceso a los servicios de salud. Se utilizó la regresión logística multinomial para las estimaciones de la odds ratio (OR), siendo los SARC la categoría de referencia. Los análisis fueron realizados en el módulo survey, del software Stata, que consideró el efecto del sistema de muestreo complejo de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud de 2019. La prevalencia del uso de anticonceptivos fue del 83,7%. Del total de usuarias, 72% usaban SARC, el 23,2% métodos permanentes y el 4,8% LARC. Las mujeres con mayor educación, plan de salud, que tuvieron partos y participaron de grupos de planificación reproductiva tuvieron mayor posibilidad de usar LARC cuando comparados al uso de SARC, mientras que el registro en la unidad básica de salud se asoció con una menor posibilidad de uso. Además, cuanto mayor sea la edad y la paridad, además de vivir con el compañero, mayor será la posibilidad de utilizar métodos permanentes en relación con el uso de SARC. A pesar de la alta cobertura de anticoncepción, la combinación anticonceptiva sigue siendo obsoleta, con un uso predominante de SARC. Además, se observaron importantes desigualdades en el acceso, siendo los LARC accesibles solo para mujeres con mejores condiciones socioeconómicas, mientras que los métodos permanentes se asociaron con un perfil de mayor vulnerabilidad social.

SARS CoV-2 infection among Healthcare Workers from different public health units in Brazil.

Understanding COVID-19 exposure differences among Healthcare Workers (HCWs) across various healthcare units is crucial for their protection and effective management of future outbreaks. However, comparative data on COVID-19 among HCWs in different healthcare units are scarce in Brazil. This study evaluated the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and workplaces in HCWs from three distinct healthcare settings in Brazil. It also examined COVID-19 symptom dynamics reported by them. The cohort comprised 464 HCWs vaccinated with two doses of CoronaVac and a BNT162b2 booster from different institutions: Primary Health Care Units (PHCUs), Emergency Care Units (ECUs), and Hospitals. Participants answered a questionnaire and underwent blood collection at various time points after vaccinations. RT-PCR data and post-vaccination antibody responses were utilized as indicators of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found that most infected HCWs worked in ECUs, where positive RT-PCR percentages were higher compared to PHCUs and Hospitals. ECUs also showed the highest seropositivity and antibody levels, especially after the first CoronaVac dose. The second dose of CoronaVac diminished the differences in the antibody levels among HCWs from ECUS, PHCUs, and Hospitals, indicating the benefit of the second dose to equalize the antibody levels between previously exposed and unexposed persons. Moreover, COVID-19 symptoms appeared to evolve over time.

Antibody response following the fourth SARS-CoV-2 vaccine dose during the Omicron wave in Brazil.

We investigated the impact of the fourth dose with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca) in the humoral immune response to SARS-CoV-2 during a 9-month follow-up period in which Omicron was the predominant variant in Brazil. IgG for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins were analyzed in samples collected before and after the fourth dose. All participants were tested monthly for SARS-CoV-2 infection by RT-qPCR. The antibody response induced by the fourth dose of the coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine was evaluated and compared with the response induced by the second and third doses. The additional antibody response to the viral S protein after the fourth dose was smaller than those after the third vaccine dose. In contrast, an increase in the N IgG levels could be observed after the fourth dose compared to other vaccine doses. In the comparison of the antibody response before and after the fourth dose, an increase in both S-and-N IgG was noted, mainly in the positive qPCR group. We did not observe a significant decline in IgG levels after the fourth dose, as observed after the second and third doses, therefore, a sustained humoral response to both S and N proteins seems to be achieved.

Carbohydrate metabolism dynamic in chlorpropham- and 1,4-dimethylnaphthalene-treated potatoes and its effect on the browning of French fries.

The use of a sprout suppressor is crucial for the use of potatoes beyond their natural dormancy period. The main sprout inhibitor used on a commercial scale, chlorpropham (CIPC), is becoming increasingly limited owing to its toxicity. Therefore, we evaluated the effectiveness of 1,4-dimethylnaphthalene (1,4-DMN) compared to CIPC in controlling sprouting and maintaining the quality of potato, Solanum tuberosum 'Asterix', during cold storage. Treatment with 1,4-DMN reduced fresh weight loss and controlled the number and length of sprouts comparable to CIPC. Compared to the control, both sprouting inhibitors led to higher starch and lower reducing sugar contents, and the tubers retained the recommended quality for industrial processing. After frying, less browning was observed in French fries obtained from 1,4-DMN- or CIPC-treated tubers. We ascertain that 1,4-DMN besides being an efficient sprouting inhibitor and alternative to CIPC, it contributes to maintaining the quality of French fries after cold storage.

An In Vivo Assessment of the Effect of Hexane Extract from Endlicheria paniculata Branches and Its Main Compound, Methyldehydrodieugenol B, on Murine Sponge-Induced Inflammation.

The present study aims to explore the anti-inflammatory potential activity of the hexane extract from branches (HEB) of Endlicheria paniculata (Lauraceae) and its main compound, methyldehydrodieugenol B, in the inflammatory response induced by a murine implant sponge model. HPLC-ESI/MS analysis of HEB led to the identification of six chemically related neolignans, with methyldehydrodieugenol B as the main compound. An in silico analysis of the pharmacokinetic parameters of the identified compounds suggested moderate solubility but good absorption and biodistribution in vivo. Thus, the treatment of mice with HEB using in vivo assays indicated that HEB promoted pro-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and antifibrogenic effects, whereas treatment with methyldehydrodieugenol B caused anti-inflammatory, antifibrogenic, and antiangiogenic effects. The obtained results shown the therapeutic potential of HEB and methyldehydrodieugenol B in the treatment of pathologies associated with inflammation and angiogenesis, including chronic wounds.

Potential Biomarkers for Asymptomatic Visceral Leishmaniasis among Iraq-Deployed U.S. Military Personnel.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic infection caused by Leishmania (L.) donovani or L. infantum parasites. Despite having the infection, most individuals never develop the clinical disease and are able to control the parasite and remain asymptomatic. However, some progress to symptomatic VL, leading to death if untreated. The host immune response has a major role in determining the progression and severity of the clinical manifestations in VL; several immune biomarkers of symptomatic VL have been described with interferon-gamma release as a surrogate biomarker of host cellular immunity. However, new biomarkers to identify asymptomatic VL (AVL) are needed for the identification of people at risk for VL activation. In our study, levels of chemokine/cytokine in the supernatants of peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PBMC) from 35 AVL+ Iraq-deployed participants, stimulated in vitro with soluble Leishmania antigen for 72 h, were assessed by a bead-based assay that allows the measurement of multiple analytes. PBMC of AVL-negative military beneficiaries were used as controls. Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1, Monokine Induced by Gamma Interferon and Interleukin-8, were detected at high levels in AVL+ stimulated cultures from Iraq deployers compared to uninfected controls. Measurement of chemokine/cytokine levels can identify cellular immune responses in AVL+ asymptomatic individuals.

Biseugenol from Ocotea cymbarum (Lauraceae) attenuates inflammation, angiogenesis and collagen deposition of sponge-induced fibrovascular tissue in mice.

Several species of the genus Ocotea are used in traditional medicine due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In this work we sought to investigate the effects of biseugenol, the main component of the hexane extract from the leaves of Ocotea cymbarum (Lauraceae), during a chronic inflammatory process induced by polyester-polyurethane sponge in mice. In addition to the inflammatory component, sponge discs also allowed us to evaluate parameters associated with the formation of new blood vessels and the deposition and organization of the extracellular matrix, processes that are related to the chronification of the inflammatory response. Daily treatment with biseugenol (0.1, 1 or 10 µg in 10 µl of 0.5% DMSO) inhibited the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, CXCL-1 and CCL2) and the neutrophil and macrophage infiltrate into to the implants, indirectly evaluated by the activity of myeloperoxidase and N-acetyl-ß-D-glycosaminidase enzymes, respectively. In implants treated with biseugenol, we observed a reduction in angiogenesis, assessed through histological quantification of mean number of blood vessels, the levels of the pro-angiogenic cytokines FGF and VEGF and the activity of metalloproteinases. Except for VEGF levels, all mentioned parameters showed significant reductions after treatment with biseugenol. Finally, the administration of the compound also reduced TGF-ß1 levels, collagen synthesis and deposition, in addition to modifying the organization of the newly formed matrix, presenting a potential anti-fibrotic effect. Therefore, our results demonstrate the potential therapeutic use of biseugenol for the treatment of a series of pathological conditions, where parameters associated with inflammation, angiogenesis and fibrogenesis are deregulated.

Roles of the 5-HT2C receptor on zebrafish sociality.

Serotonin (5-HT) receptors have been implicated in social behavior in vertebrates. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have been increasingly being used behavioral neuroscience to study the neurobiological correlates of behavior, including sociality. Nonetheless, the role of 5-HT2C receptors in different social functions were not yet studied in this species. Zebrafish were treated with the agonist MK-212 (2 mg/kg) or the antagonist RS-102221 (2 mg/kg) and tested in the social interaction and social novelty tests, conditional approach test, or mirror-induced aggressive displays. MK-212 increased preference for an unknown conspecific in the social investigation test, but also increased preference for the known conspecific in the social novelty test; RS-102221, on the other hand, decreased preference in the social investigation test but increased preference for the novel conspecific in the social novelty test. MK-212 also decreased predator inspection in the conditional approach test. While RS-102221 decreased time in the display zone in the mirror-induced aggressive display test, it increased display duration. Overall, these results demonstrate the complex role of 5-HT2C receptors in different social contexts in zebrafish, revealing a participation in social plasticity in vertebrates.

Influence of age, gender, previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, and pre-existing diseases in antibody response after COVID-19 vaccination: A review.

Vaccines induce specific long-term immunological memory against pathogens, preventing the worsening of diseases. The COVID-19 health emergency has caused more than 6 million deaths and started a race for vaccine development. Antibody response to COVID-19 vaccines has been investigated primarily in healthcare workers. The heterogeneity of immune responses and the behavior of this response in particular groups were still very little explored. In this review, we discuss whether antibody responses after vaccination are influenced by age, gender, previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, or pre-existing diseases.