Sociodemographic and Clinical Factors for Microcephaly Secondary to Teratogenic Infections in Brazil: An Ecological Study.

Microcephaly is a neurological condition characterized by anomalies in the growth of the cranial circumference. This study aims to examine the association between sociodemographic and clinical variables and the occurrence of secondary microcephaly in newborns in Brazil. It also aims to investigate the association between this congenital anomaly and teratogenic infections. This research adopts an observational approach with an ecological, descriptive, and analytical design. The sample includes infants aged ≤28 days and registered in the country's Live Births Information System from January 2015 to December 2021. Newborns were categorized into G1, consisting of newborns with one of the three infections (Zika, toxoplasmosis, or syphilis), and G2, consisting of newborns with two of the three infections. A total of 1513 samples were analyzed and divided into two groups: one infection (syphilis n = 423; toxoplasmosis n = 295; or Zika n = 739) and two infections (n = 56). The northeastern region of Brazil has the highest prevalence of microcephaly. Regarding the population profile, the Zika virus infection is more common among white mothers, while the syphilis infection is more common among black mothers. Among newborns with microcephaly, boys have a lower prevalence of toxoplasmosis infection, while girls have a lower prevalence of Zika virus infection. This study provides pertinent information on each infection and contributes to the epidemiologic understanding of the association between teratogenic infections and microcephaly.

An Analysis of Key Actor Networks for Scale-Up Strategies for Childhood Obesity Prevention and the Care of Children with Obesity in Brazil.

Background: Effective scale-up of multisectoral strategies aimed to prevent and treat childhood obesity has been a challenge in Brazil, the largest country in Latin America. Implementation Science methods, such as Net-Map, can identify key actors and opinion leaders (OLs) to advance the implementation and promote sustainability. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze power relations between key actors and OLs who influence the scale-up of Brazilian strategies for childhood obesity at the federal and state/municipal (local) levels. Methods: A mixed method study, applying the Net-Map method, collected data through virtual workshops with federal and local level stakeholders. The Net-Map included key actors mapping, power mapping, and identification of OLs. Four domains of power were analyzed: command, funding, technical assistance, and dissemination. Network cohesion and centrality measures were calculated. A qualitative analysis was conducted to qualify power relations according to ∗ gears for a successful scale-up (i.e., coordination, goals, and monitoring; advocacy; political will; legislation and policy; funding and resources; training; program delivery; communication; and research and technical cooperation). Results: A total of 121 federal key actors and 63 local key actors were identified across networks, of which 62 and 28 were identified as OLs, respectively. Whereas the command domain of power had the highest number of key actors, the funding domain had the least. The health sector executive branch emerged as an OL across all domains of power. Conclusions: Barriers that threatened successful scale-up include the lack of coordination between domains of power, missing leadership within key actors, and lack of mechanisms to manage conflict of interest. Governance strategies to enhance multisectoral coordination and communication are needed to effectively scale-up and sustain childhood obesity strategies in Brazil.

The Influence Between C-C Chemokine Receptor 5 Genetic Polymorphisms and the Type-1 Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A 20-Year Review.

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an infectious disease caused by the types 1 and 2 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1 and HIV-2). Clinical outcomes in patients are highly varied and delineated by complex interactions between virus, host, and environment, such as with help of co-receptors, for example, the C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5). This work aimed to describe the scientific evidence relating the influence of CCR5 polymorphisms in association studies for HIV-1 disease susceptibility, severity, and transmissibility. This is a systematic review of the literature on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the deletion [Insertion and Deletion (Indel)] Δ32 of CCR5. The search for articles was based on the ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) databases for the period between 2001 and 2021. The final sample consisted of 32 articles. †SNP rs1799987 is one of the genetic polymorphisms most associated with the criteria of susceptibility and severity of HIV-1, having distinct consequences in genotypic, allelic, and clinical analysis in the variability of investigated populations. As for the transmission character of the disease, the G mutant allele of rs1799987 corresponds to the highest positive association. ‡Furthermore, the results on Indel Δ32 corroborate the absence and rarity of this variant in some populations. Finally, mitigating the severity of cases, SNPs rs1799988 and rs1800023 obtained significant attribution in individuals in the studied populations. It is shown that the reported polymorphisms express significant influences for the evaluation of diagnostic, therapeutic, and prophylactic measures for HIV-1 having fundamental particularities in the molecular, genetic, and transcriptional aspects of CCR5.

Eficácia do uso do surfactante exógeno em recém-nascidos de uma UTI Neonatal / Effectiveness of the use of exogenous surfactant in newborn in a neonatal ICU

Introdução: A Doença da Membrana Hialina (DMH) é provocada pela ausência ou deficiência de surfactante, acomete os recém-nascidos prematuros, e o tratamento é realizado com surfactante exógeno. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da terapia com o uso do surfactante exógeno nos distúrbios respiratórios em recém-nascidos. Métodos: Um estudo transversal, descritivo e quantitativo foi realizado com 31 recém-nascidos admitidos na UTI Neonatal do Hospital Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Patrocínio, MG. Para a coleta dos dados, foi elaborado um roteiro estruturado pelas pesquisadoras. Os dados foram analisados por meio dos testes estatísticos: Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Fisher (p ≤ 0,05) e Wilcoxon (p ≤ 0,05). Resultados: O DMH prevaleceu no sexo feminino (51,6%), a maioria prematuros (83,9%) e com baixo peso ao nascer (51,6%). Daqueles que necessitaram do corticoide antenatal, 38,7% usaram duas doses, sendo o Grau III da DMH o mais evidente (35,5%). Todos os recém-nascidos usaram ao menos uma dose de surfactante (58,1%), devido a DMH (87,1%) e a Síndrome da Aspiração Meconial (12,9%). Conclusão: Conclui-se que o distúrbio respiratório mais encontrado nos prematuros foi a DMH, comprovando a evolução positiva dos neonatos após administração do surfactante exógeno e constatando a eficácia do medicamento como tratamento, utilizando-se apenas uma dose.

Balance between maternal antiviral response and placental transfer of protection in gestational SARS-CoV-2 infection

Maternal immune responses during pregnancy protect the growing fetus by clearing infection, preventing its vertical transmission, and through transplacental transfer of protective immune mediators to the fetus. How maternal immune response balances SARS-CoV-2 antiviral responses with transplacental transfer of protection to the fetus remains unclear. Our study shows that upon SARS-CoV-2 maternal infection, neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) are infrequently detected in cord blood. We uncovered that this is due to impaired IgG-NAbs placental transfer in symptomatic infection and to the predominance of maternal SARS-CoV-2 NAbs of the IgA and IgM isotypes, which are prevented from crossing the placenta. Crucially, the decision between favoring maternal antiviral response or transplacental transfer of immune protection to the fetus appears to hinge on the balance between IL-6 and IL-10 induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection, decreasing or increasing transplacental transfer of IgG-NAbs, respectively. In addition, IL-10 inversely correlates with maternal NK cell frequency. Finally, we found that ongoing infection favored perinatal transfer of maternal NK cells, highlighting a maternal sponsored mechanism to protect the newborn from horizontal transmission of infection. Our data point to an evolutionary trade-off which at once optimizes maternal viral clearance and vertical transfer of immune protection during the more susceptible perinatal period. Brief SummaryIn SARS-CoV-2 maternal infection, the balance between maternal antiviral response and transplacental transfer of cellular and humoral (NAb) protection hinges on maternal IL-6 and IL-10.

Low transmission rates of Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) in foals born to seropositive feral mares inhabiting the Amazon delta region despite climatic conditions supporting high insect vector populations.

BACKGROUND: Marajó Island, within in the Amazon River Delta, supports numerous bands of feral equids including the genetically distinct Marajoara horses. Approximately 40% of the equids on the island are infected with Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). This high seropositivity rate coupled with the need to preserve rare breeds such as the Marajoara horse precludes euthanasia as the primary means for controlling EIAV in this region. In the absence of iatrogenic transmission, spread of this lentivirus is mediated primarily by hematophagous insects, whose year-round prevalence on the island is supported by favorable climatic conditions. In addition, cases of vertical EIAV transmission have been observed suggesting inclusion of seropositive mares in restorative breeding programs could result in their progeny becoming infected with this virus either pre-parturition or post-partum via hematophagous insects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate EIAV vertical and post-partum insect-mediated transmission rates among foals born to seropositive feral mares until natural weaning. Serum samples from foals born to seropositive feral mares within the Soure municipality, of Marajó Island, were collected to investigate their serological status, using an indirect ELISApgp45, with positive samples confirmed using the classical agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) assay. RESULTS: The serological status of 28 foals were monitored over a 2-year period with some subjects, depending on their date of birth, being sampled up to six times. All foals remained with their respective mares until fully weaned at approximately 10 months of age. Only 2 foals (7.14%) in the study group became seropositive against EIAV. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that in most cases it is possible to obtain seronegative foals born to and eventually weaned by EIA positive mares, even in equatorial regions where substantial rainfall and high temperatures favor the proliferation of insect vectors.

Glanders and brucellosis in equids from the Amazon region, Brazil.

Glanders and brucellosis are zoonotic infectious diseases that affect equids in several countries worldwide. On Marajó Island (Amazon region of Brazil), Marajoara and Puruca horses, which are well adapted to the climatic and territorial adversities of the region, play a fundamental role in the local economy and in the sociocultural lives of the population. However, these animals have undergone a drastic reduction in number, markedly due to precarious veterinary care, unknown causes of morbidity and mortality, and disordered crossing with other breeds introduced to the island. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence of glanders and brucellosis in equids on a property located in the municipality of Soure, Marajó Island (Brazil). Serum samples were collected from 388 animals (357 horses and 31 mules), maintained in an extensive breeding system, in a property that was also extensively breeding buffaloes, goats, and sheep, with contact among species. The sera were tested for glanders using an indirect ELISA (ELISAi), and the results were confirmed by immunoblotting. The diagnosis of brucellosis was made using the Rose Bengal test (RBT) and confirmed through the Serum Agglutination test (SAT) and 2-mercaptoethanol test. In the case of glanders, 2.31% (9/388) of animals were positive in ELISAi test, of which eight had results confirmed by immunoblotting, representing 2.06% seropositivity in the entire herd. For brucellosis, serum samples from 6.7% (26/388) horses were reactive in the RBT, of which 4.12% (18/388) had a titer ≥50 and 2.06% (8/388) had a titer ≥100 in the SAT. This is the first study to report the occurrence of glanders and equine brucellosis in the municipality of Soure/Marajó Island. Monitoring the occurrence of such diseases is extremely important since they affect the herds economically and zootechnically, in addition to their high zoonotic potential. The number of animals sampled in this study, as well as the way they are raised and managed, is representative of the total equid population of the island. These results, combined with previous studies on buffaloes, indicate that these diseases are endemic in the Marajo Island.

A construção da sociabilidade no crossfit: corpos coletivamente individualizados / La construcción de la sociabilidad en el crossfit: cuerpos colectivamente individualizados / The construction of sociability in crossfit: collectively individualized bodies

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a construção das sociabilidades no CrossFit, como um meio de captar os valores e práticas inerentes ao investimento corporal nessa modalidade. Para tanto, com base na abordagem socioantropológica, observaram-se as práticas corporais em campo e analisaram-se as representações dadas a elas pelos sujeitos, por meio da observação participante de um box oficial na cidade do Rio de Janeiro e de entrevistas com praticantes de CrossFit de boxes oficiais do Rio de Janeiro. Como principais resultados, notou-se que a sociabilidade no CrossFit é permeada por valores de superação, solidariedade, comparação e competição entre os sujeitos e consigo mesmo. Conclui-se que apesar desta prática corporal ser coletiva/em grupo, os objetivos e as responsabilidades dentro do campo são individualizados, de modo que os sujeitos sejam instigados a se aprimorarem e se superarem constantemente. (AU)

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la construcción de las sociabilidades en el CrossFit, como medio de captar los valores y prácticas inherentes a la inversión corporal en esa modalidad. Para ello, con base en el enfoque socioantropológico, se observaron las prácticas corporales en campo y se analizaron las representaciones dadas por los sujetos a las mismas, a través de la observación participante de un box oficial en la ciudad de Rio de Janeiro y de entrevistas con practicantes de CrossFit de boxes oficiales de Rio de Janeiro. Como principales resultados, se observó que la sociabilidad en el CrossFit está permeada de valores de superación, solidaridad, comparación y competencia entre los sujetos y con sí mismo. Se concluye que a pesar de que la práctica es colectiva/en grupo, los objetivos y responsabilidades dentro del campo son individualizados, por lo que los sujetos son instigados a superarse y a mejorar constantemente. (AU)

The aim of the study was to analyze the construction of sociabilities in CrossFit, as a means of capturing the values and practices inherent to the body investment in this modality. Therefore, based on the socio-anthropological approach, in order to observe bodily practices in the field and analyze the representations given by the subjects to the practice, participant observation from a CrossFit box in the city of Rio de Janeiro and interviews with CrossFitters from official boxes in Rio de Janeiro was used. As the main results, it was noted that sociability in CrossFit is permeated by values of overcoming, solidarity, comparison and competition between subjects and with themselves. It is concluded that despite the practice being collective/in a group, the objectives and responsibilities within the field are individualized so that the subjects are instigated to constantly overcome themselves. (AU)

Visitas domiciliares e diagramação familiar na Atenção Primária à Saúde: reflexões de estudantes participantes do PET-Saúde Interprofissionalidade / Home visits and family diagramming in Primary Health Care: reflections of students participating in PET-Health Interprofessionality

Objetivo: Descrever as reflexões de graduandos participantes do Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho (PET) sobre a experiência de inserção na Atenção Primária em Saúde por meio da realização de visitas domiciliares e diagramação familiar. Método: Pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa, desenvolvida em município do interior do estado de Mato Grosso, que teve por população estudantes de cursos de graduação em Saúde participantes do PET-Interprofissionalidade. Resultados: Participaram da pesquisa oito estudantes distribuídos entre os cursos de Biomedicina, Educação Física, Enfermagem e Farmácia com idade entre 19 e 34 anos, a maioria do sexo feminino. A partir da análise dos achados surgiram três categorias: percepções sobre as visitas domiciliares, reflexões sobre a diagramação familiar para o trabalho na atenção primária em saúde e aprendizagem compartilhada e trabalho em equipe. Considerações finais: O desenvolvimento das atividades demostrou positivos resultados frente à imersão na comunidade e no trabalho em equipe, consistiu em incentivo para a formação de profissionais mais humanizados e qualificados.

Objective: To describe the reflections of undergraduate students participating in the Work Education Program (PET) on the experience of insertion in Primary Health Care through home visits and family diagramming. Method: Descriptive research with a qualitative approach, developed in a municipality in the interior of the state of Mato Grosso, which had as population students of undergraduate Health courses participating in PET- Interprofessionality. Results: Eight students distributed among Biomedicine, Physical Education, Nursing and Pharmacy courses participated in the research, aged between 19 and 34 years, most females. From the analysis of the findings three categories emerged: perceptions about home visits, reflections on family diagramming for work in primary health care and shared learning and teamwork. Final considerations: The development of the activities showed positive results in the face of immersion in the community and teamwork, consisted of incentive for the training of more humanized and qualified professionals.

Amino acids 484 and 494 of SARS-CoV-2 spike are hotspots of immune evasion affecting antibody but not ACE2 binding

Understanding SARS-CoV-2 evolution and host immunity is critical to control COVID-19 pandemics. At the core is an arms-race between SARS-CoV-2 antibody and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) recognition, a function of the viral protein spike. Mutations in spike impacting antibody and/or ACE2 binding are appearing worldwide, with the effect of mutation synergy still incompletely understood. We engineered 25 spike-pseudotyped lentiviruses containing individual and combined mutations, and confirmed that E484K evades antibody neutralization elicited by infection or vaccination, a capacity augmented when complemented by K417N and N501Y mutations. In silico analysis provided an explanation for E484K immune evasion. E484 frequently engages in interactions with antibodies but not with ACE2. Importantly, we identified a novel amino acid of concern, S494, which shares a similar pattern. Using the already circulating mutation S494P, we found that it reduces antibody neutralization of convalescent and post-immunization sera, particularly when combined with E484K and N501Y. Our analysis of synergic mutations provides a landscape for hotspots for immune evasion and for targets for therapies, vaccines and diagnostics. One-Sentence SummaryAmino acids in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein implicated in immune evasion are biased for binding to neutralizing antibodies but dispensable for binding the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme

Proposal for computer-aided diagnosis based on ultrasound images of the kidney: is it possible to compare shades of gray among such images?

OBJECTIVE: To compare ultrasound images of the kidney obtained, randomly or in a controlled manner (standardizing the physical aspects of the ultrasound system), by various professionals and with different devices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated a total of 919 images of kidneys, obtained by five professionals using two types of ultrasound systems, in 24 patients. The images were categorized into four types, by how they were acquired and processed. We compared the gray-scale median and different gray-scale ranges representative of virtual histological tissues. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences among the five professionals, regardless of the type of ultrasound system employed, in terms of the gray-scale medians for the images obtained (p < 2.2e-16). Analyzing the four categories of images-a totally random image (without any standardization); a standardized image (with fixed values for gain, time gain control, and dynamic range); a normalized version of the random image; and a normalized version of the standardized image-we determined that the random image, even after normalization, differed quite significantly among the professionals (p = 0.006098). The analysis of the normalized version of the standardized image did not differ significantly among the professionals (p = 0.7319). CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that a gray-scale analysis of ultrasound images of the kidney performs better when the image acquisition process is standardized and the images undergo a process of normalization.

OBJETIVO: Comparar imagens renais ultrassonográficas obtidas de maneira aleatória e controlada (padronizando fatores físicos do aparelho de ultrassom) por diferentes profissionais e aparelhos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram obtidos quatro tipos de imagens, de acordo com sua aquisição e processamento por cinco profissionais e dois tipos de aparelhos de ultrassonografia, em 24 pacientes, totalizando 919 imagens. Comparamos a mediana de escala de cinza e diferentes intervalos de tons de cinza representantes de tecidos histológicos virtuais. RESULTADOS: As medianas de escala de cinza de imagens renais obtidas por dois tipos de aparelhos foram estatisticamente diferentes (p < 2.2e-16). Analisando os quatro tipos de imagens, partindo de uma totalmente aleatória (sem qualquer padronização), uma padronizada (fixado o ganho, time gain control e dynamic range), e essas duas passando por um processo de normatização, obteve-se que a imagem aleatória é totalmente diversa entre os profissionais (p = 0,006098), mesmo passando pelo processo de normatização. A imagem padronizada, após passar pelo processo de normatização, apresentou resultados equivalentes, não possuindo diferença estatística (p = 0,7319). CONCLUSÃO: Constatou-se que na análise de tons de cinza deve-se usar um mesmo tipo de máquina e uma imagem em que sejam padronizados aspectos físicos, passando por um processo de normatização/padronização.

Proposal for computer-aided diagnosis based on ultrasound images of the kidney: is it possible to compare shades of gray among such images? / Proposição de um diagnóstico auxiliado por computador de imagem renal ultrassonográfica: é possível comparar tons de cinza das imagens ultrassonográficas renais?

Abstract Objective: To compare ultrasound images of the kidney obtained, randomly or in a controlled manner (standardizing the physical aspects of the ultrasound system), by various professionals and with different devices. Materials and Methods: We evaluated a total of 919 images of kidneys, obtained by five professionals using two types of ultrasound systems, in 24 patients. The images were categorized into four types, by how they were acquired and processed. We compared the gray-scale median and different gray-scale ranges representative of virtual histological tissues. Results: There were statistically significant differences among the five professionals, regardless of the type of ultrasound system employed, in terms of the gray-scale medians for the images obtained (p < 2.2e-16). Analyzing the four categories of images-a totally random image (without any standardization); a standardized image (with fixed values for gain, time gain control, and dynamic range); a normalized version of the random image; and a normalized version of the standardized image-we determined that the random image, even after normalization, differed quite significantly among the professionals (p = 0.006098). The analysis of the normalized version of the standardized image did not differ significantly among the professionals (p = 0.7319). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that a gray-scale analysis of ultrasound images of the kidney performs better when the image acquisition process is standardized and the images undergo a process of normalization.

Resumo Objetivo: Comparar imagens renais ultrassonográficas obtidas de maneira aleatória e controlada (padronizando fatores físicos do aparelho de ultrassom) por diferentes profissionais e aparelhos. Materiais e Métodos: Foram obtidos quatro tipos de imagens, de acordo com sua aquisição e processamento por cinco profissionais e dois tipos de aparelhos de ultrassonografia, em 24 pacientes, totalizando 919 imagens. Comparamos a mediana de escala de cinza e diferentes intervalos de tons de cinza representantes de tecidos histológicos virtuais. Resultados: As medianas de escala de cinza de imagens renais obtidas por dois tipos de aparelhos foram estatisticamente diferentes (p < 2.2e-16). Analisando os quatro tipos de imagens, partindo de uma totalmente aleatória (sem qualquer padronização), uma padronizada (fixado o ganho, time gain control e dynamic range), e essas duas passando por um processo de normatização, obteve-se que a imagem aleatória é totalmente diversa entre os profissionais (p = 0,006098), mesmo passando pelo processo de normatização. A imagem padronizada, após passar pelo processo de normatização, apresentou resultados equivalentes, não possuindo diferença estatística (p = 0,7319). Conclusão: Constatou-se que na análise de tons de cinza deve-se usar um mesmo tipo de máquina e uma imagem em que sejam padronizados aspectos físicos, passando por um processo de normatização/padronização.

Antimicrobial and anti-caries effects of a novel cystatin from sugarcane on saliva-derived multi-species biofilms.

This study evaluated the antimicrobial (anti-biofilm) and anti-caries (enamel demineralization prevention) effects of a new cystatin derived from sugarcane (CaneCPI-5). Microcosm biofilm was produced on bovine enamel specimens (4 x 4 mm; n=48) from a mixture of human saliva and McBain saliva at the first 8 h. From this moment until the end of the experiment, the enamel specimens were exposed to lsaMcBain saliva containing 0.2% sucrose and, once a day, they were treated with the test solutions for 1 min. This treatment was performed for 5 days. The solutions evaluated were: PBS (negative control), 0.12% chlorhexidine (positive control), 0.1 mg/ml CaneCPI-5 and 1.0 mg/ml CaneCPI-5. The biofilm viability was determined by fluorescence using confocal microscopy and the enamel demineralization was quantified using transverse microradiography (TMR). The data were analyzed by ANOVA/Tukey or Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn tests for biofilm and enamel, respectively (p<0.05). With respect to the antimicrobial effect, all treatment solutions significantly reduced the biofilm viability compared with PBS. The best antimicrobial effect was found for 1.0 mg/ml CaneCPI-5 (82.37±10.01% dead bacteria) that significantly differed from 0.12% chlorhexidine (73.13±15.07% dead bacteria). For the anti-caries effect, only 0.12% chlorhexidine (ΔZ: 2610, 1683-4343) performed significantly better than PBS (ΔZ: 8030, 7213-9115), but 0.12% chlorhexidine did not significantly differ from 0.1 mg/ml Cane-CPI-5. Under this experimental model, CaneCPI-5 significantly reduced the biofilm viability, but this effect was not reflected on its anti-caries potential.

Antibiofilm and anti-caries effects of an experimental mouth rinse containing Matricaria chamomilla L. extract under microcosm biofilm on enamel.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the antibiofilm and anti-caries effects of an experimental mouth rinse containing aqueous extract of Matricaria chamomilla L. METHODS: Microcosm biofilm was produced on bovine enamel, from pooled human saliva mixed with McBain saliva, under 0.2 % sucrose exposure, for 5 days. The biofilm was daily treated using (1 mL/1 min): Vochysia tucanorum Mart. (2.5 mg/mL); Myrcia bella Cambess. (1.25 mg/mL); Matricaria chamomilla L. (20 mg/mL); Malva sylvestris (Malvatricin® Plus-Daudt); 0.12 % Chlorhexidine (PerioGard®-Palmolive, Positive control) and PBS (Negative control). The % dead bacteria, biofilm thickness, EPS biovolume, lactic acid concentration, the CFU counting (total microorganisms, Lactobacillus sp., total streptococci and Streptococcus mutans/S. sobrinus) were determined. Enamel demineralization was measured by TMR. RESULTS: All mouth rinses induced bacterial death compared to PBS (p < 0.0001). The biofilm thickness varied from 12 ±â€¯2 µm (chlorhexidine) to 18 ±â€¯2 µm (V. tucanorum) (ANOVA/Tukey, p < 0.0001). The EPS biovolume varied from 7(4)% (chlorhexidine) to 30(20)% (PBS) (Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn, p < 0.0001). The lactic acid production was reduced by M. sylvestris (1.1 ±â€¯0.2 g/L) and chlorhexidine (0.6 ±â€¯0.2 g/L) compared to PBS (2.6 ±â€¯1.3 g/L) (ANOVA, p < 0.0001). Malva sylvestris and chlorhexidine showed significant low CFU for total microorganisms, Lactobacillus sp. and total streptococci. Only chlorhexidine significantly reduced S. mutans/S. sobrinus. CFUs for total streptococci and Lactobacillus sp, were also significantly reduced by M. chamomilla L. Malva sylvestris (63.4 % of mineral loss reduction), chlorhexidine (47.4 %) and M. chamomilla L. (39.4 %) significantly reduced enamel demineralization compared to PBS (ANOVA/Tukey, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: M. chamomilla L. has lower antibiofilm action, but comparable anti-caries effect to those found for chlorhexidine, under this model. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study shows that the antibiofilm and anti-caries potential may vary between the commercial and experimental mouth rinses containing natural agents, with promising results for those containing Matricaria chamomilla L. and Malva Sylvestris.

Effect of commercial herbal toothpastes and mouth rinses on the prevention of enamel demineralization using a microcosm biofilm model.

This work evaluated the effects of commercial toothpastes and mouth rinses containing natural/herbal agents on biofilm viability, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) production and on enamel demineralization in vitro. Microcosm biofilm was produced on bovine enamel for 5 days and treated daily with: Orgânico natural® (toothpaste/mouth rinse), Boni Natural Menta & Malaleuca® (toothpaste/mouth rinse), Propolis & Myrrh® (toothpaste), Colgate Total 12 Clean Mint® (toothpaste, positive control), Malvatricin® Plus (mouth rinse), PerioGard® (mouth rinse, positive control) or PBS (negative control). Tom's Propolis & Myrrh® and Colgate Total 12® toothpastes and Malvatricin® Plus and PerioGard® mouth rinses significantly reduced biofilm viability (p < 0.05). Only PerioGard® had significant effects on biofilm thickness and EPS. Despite the indication that Tom's Propolis & Myrrh® significantly reduced lesion depth, only Colgate Total 12® significantly reduced mineral loss. Malvatricin® Plus significantly reduced mineral loss and lesion depth, as did PerioGard®. Some herbal products, Malvatricin® Plus and Tom's Propolis & Myrrh®, showed anticaries effects.

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Myracrodruon urundeuva All. and Qualea grandiflora Mart. leaves on the viability and activity of microcosm biofilm and on enamel demineralization.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Myracrodruon urundeuva All. and Qualea grandiflora Mart. leaves hydroalcoholic extracts on viability and metabolism of a microcosm biofilm and on enamel demineralization prevention. METHODOLOGY: Microcosm biofilm was produced on bovine enamel using inoculum from pooled human saliva mixed with McBain saliva, under 0.2% sucrose exposure, for 14 days. The biofilm was daily-treated with the extracts for 1 min. At the end, it was analyzed with respect to viability by fluorescence, CFU counting and extracellular polysaccharides (phenol-sulphuric acid colorimetric assay) and lactic acid (enzymatic assay) production. The demineralization was measured by TMR. The data were compared using ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis (p<0.05). RESULTS: M. urundeuva All. at 100, 10 and 0.1 µg/mL and Q. grandiflora Mart. at 100 and 0.1 µg/mL reduced biofilm viability similarly to positive control (chlorhexidine) and significantly more than the negative-vehicle control (35% ethanol). M. urundeuva at 1000, 100 and 0.1 µg/mL were able to reduce both lactobacilli and mutans streptococci CFU counting, while Q. grandiflora (1000 and 1.0 µg/mL) significantly reduced mutans streptococci CFU counting. On the other hand, the natural extracts were unable to significantly reduce extracellular polysaccharides and lactic acid productions neither the development of enamel carious lesions. CONCLUSIONS: The extracts showed antimicrobial properties on microcosm biofilm, however, they had no effect on biofilm metabolism and caries protection.

Novel Acaricidal Drug Fluazuron Causes Immunotoxicity via Selective Depletion of Lymphocytes T CD8.

Fluazuron is one of the newest veterinary antitick medicines. Belonging to the benzoylphenylureas group, its mechanism of action acts by the interference of the formation of the chitin of the tick, which is responsible for the hardening of its exoskeletons. In addition to taking care of the health of the animal so that it receives the medication in the doses and the correct form, it is important to analyze the safety of the operator. Reduced resistance to infectious disease was a well-documented consequence of primary and acquired immunodeficiencies, but a novel finding following xenobiotic exposure. The awareness of the consequences of altered immune function is the most likely outcome of inadvertent exposure. The human health implications of studies in which chemical exposure reduced resistance to infection drove an early focus on immunosuppression within the toxicology community. The main objective is to perform the evaluation by computational platforms and in cell culture, searching for data that can serve as a foundation for a better understanding of the toxic effects involved with the accidental contamination of Fluazuron and, thus, to assist the medical community and users to understand the risks inherent in its use. As far as we can determine in the literature, our work has unmistakably demonstrated that the Fluazuron can cause genotoxicity by probable chromatin rearrangement and immunodepleting by specific reduction of the CD8 T lymphocyte subpopulation, mediated by the decrease in gamma interferon production. Although the use of Fluazuron is a necessity for tick control and for cattle management, we must bear in mind that the imminent risks to its application exist. Careless use can damage the immune system which in turn carries a gigantic hazard by opening a door to diseases and pathogens and leaving us defenseless.

Diferenças da qualidade de vida entre mulheres com alto e habitual risco gestacional / Differences in quality of life among women at high habitual risk

As gestantes de alto risco necessitam de uma atenção especial dos profissionais de saúde para que complicações não se desenvolvam na gestação e parto. O objetivo do estudo foi comparar a qualidade de vida entre gestantes de alto risco (GAR) e de risco habitual (GRH). Trata- se de um estudo transversal que utilizou um questionário semiestruturado e o instrumento WHOQOLBref. A idade média das 46 participantes foi 28,2±5,7 anos, e 45,7% tinham GAR. As GAR se comparam as GRH, identificando serem casadas ou viverem em união estável (57,1% GAR; 88,8% GRH), possuírem ensino médio completo (33,3%; 52,0%) e não possuem atividade remunerada (38,1%; 36,0%). As GRH apresentaram maiores escores em todos os domínios quando comparadas às GRA, indicando apresentarem melhor qualidade de vida. É importante atentar-se para as várias modificações que a gestação pode acarretar às mulheres, a fim de conseguir atender as necessidades específicas de cada uma delas.

High risk pregnant women need special attention from health professionals so that complications do not develop during pregnancy and childbirth. The objective of the study was to compare the quality of life among pregnant women at high risk (GAR) and habitual risk (HRM). It is a cross-sectional study that used a semi-structured questionnaire and the WHOQOLBref instrument. The mean age of the 46 participants was 28.2 ± 5.7 years, and 45.7% had GAR. The GHR are compared to HRM, identifying married or living in a stable union (57.1% GAR, 88.8% GRH), have completed high school (33.3%, 52.0%) and do not have paid work (38.1%, 36.0%). The HRM presented higher scores in all domains when compared to the GRA, indicating a better quality of life. It is important to be aware of the various changes gestation can cause to women in order to meet the specific needs of each of them.

Protective Effect of 4% Titanium Tetrafluoride Varnish on Dentin Demineralization Using a Microcosm Biofilm Model.

This study evaluated the effect of titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) varnish on the development of dentin carious lesions. Bovine root dentin samples were treated for 6 h with: (A) 4% TiF4 varnish (2.45% F); (B) 5.42% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish (2.45% F); (C) 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gel - positive control; (D) placebo varnish; or (E) untreated - negative control (n = 4 × biological triplicate, n = 12). Treated dentin samples were exposed to human saliva mixed with McBain saliva (1:50) for the first 8 h in 24-well plates. Thereafter, the medium was removed, and McBain saliva containing 0.2% sucrose was applied for 16 h. From days 2 to 5, McBain saliva with sucrose was replaced daily (37°C, 5% CO2). The demineralization was measured using transverse microradiography, while the effect on biofilm was analyzed using viability, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS), and lactic acid production assays. The data were statistically analyzed (p < 0.05). All treatments (fluorides and CHX) significantly reduced the biofilm viability compared to placebo varnish and negative control. However, none of them was able to reduce the colony-forming unit counting for total microorganism, total streptococci, and Streptococcus mutans. NaF significantly reduced the number of Lactobacillus sp. compared to negative control. No effect was seen on lactic acid production neither on EPS synthesis, except that CHX significantly reduced the amount of insoluble EPS. Both fluorides were able to reduce dentin demineralization compared to placebo varnish and negative control; TiF4 had a better effect in reducing mineral loss and lesion depth than NaF. Therefore, TiF4 varnish has the best protective effect on dentin carious lesion formation using this model.

Caracterização físico-química de barra de cereal adicionada de chia em grãos (Salvia hispanica L. ) / Physical-chemical characterization of cereal bar added to chia in grains (Salvia hispanica L. )

A chia é uma semente oriunda da América latina, que se tornou promissora para a indústria de alimentos graças às suas excelentes propriedades nutricionais. No presente trabalho objetivou-se efetuar a caracterização físico-química de uma barra de cereal adicionada de chia em grãos. Os resultados foram tratados por análise de variância (ANOVA) e teste de Tukey com um nível de significância de 5 %. Os teores de cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos e fibras aumentaram (P<0,05) nas formulações BC2 e BC3, com maiores concentrações de chia. A baixa atividade de água, inferior a 0,6, associada às condições de higiene durante o manuseio experimental do produto demonstraram que é seguro produzir barras de cereais com substituição de chia em até 20 % de sua composição total, e com agregação de valor nutricional.