Melatonin effects on oxidative stress and on TLR4/NF-kß inflammatory pathway in the right ventricle of rats with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterised by an increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure and a compromised the right ventricle (RV), together with progression to heart failure and premature death. Studies have evaluated the role of melatonin as a promising therapeutic strategy for PAH. The objective of this study was to evaluate melatonin's effects on oxidative stress and on the TLR4/NF-kß inflammatory pathway in the RV of rats with PAH. Male Wistar rats were divided into the following groups: control, monocrotaline (MCT), and monocrotaline plus melatonin groups. These two last groups received one intraperitoneal injection of MCT (60 mg/kg) on the first day of experimental protocol. The monocrotaline plus melatonin group received 10 mg/kg/day of melatonin by gavage for 21 days. Echocardiographic analysis was performed, and the RV was collected for morphometric analysis oxidative stress and molecular evaluations. The main findings of the present study were that melatonin administration attenuated the reduction in RV function that was induced by monocrotaline, as assessed by TAPSE. In addition, melatonin prevented RV diastolic area reduction caused by PAH. Furthermore, animals treated with melatonin did not show an increase in ROS levels or in NF-kß expression. In addition, the monocrotaline plus melatonin group showed a reduction in TLR4 expression when compared with control and monocrotaline groups. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating a positive effect of melatonin on the TLR4/NF-kß pathway in the RV of rats with PAH. In this sense, this study makes it possible to think of melatonin as a possible ally in mitigating RV alterations caused by PAH.

Sulforaphane Improves Redox Homeostasis and Right Ventricular Contractility in a Model of Pulmonary Hypertension.

ABSTRACT: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), imposing overload on the right ventricle (RV) and imbalance of the redox state. Our study investigated the influence of treatment with sulforaphane (SFN), found in cruciferous vegetables, on RV remodeling and redox homeostasis in monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH. Male Wistar rats were separated into 4 groups: control (CTR); CTR + SFN; MCT; and MCT + SFN. PAH induction was implemented by a single dose of MCT (60 mg/kg intraperitoneally). Treatment with SFN (2.5 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally) started on the seventh day after the MCT injection and persisted for 2 weeks. After 21 days of PAH induction, echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and oxidative stress evaluation was performed. The MCT group showed an increase in RV hypertrophy, RV systolic area, RV systolic, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and PVR and exhibited a decrease in the RV outflow tract acceleration time/ejection time ratio, RV fractional shortening, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion compared to CTR ( P < 0.05). SFN-treated PAH attenuated detrimental changes in tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and PVR parameters. Catalase levels and the glutathione/Glutathione disulfide (GSSG) ratio were diminished in the MCT group compared to CTR ( P < 0.05). SFN increased catalase levels and normalized the glutathione/GSSG ratio to control levels ( P < 0.05). Data express the benefit of SFN treatment on the cardiac function of rats with PAH associated with the cellular redox state.

Accelerated onset of diabetes in non-obese diabetic mice fed a refined high-fat diet.

AIM: Type 1 diabetes results from autoimmune events influenced by environmental variables, including changes in diet. This study investigated how feeding refined versus unrefined (aka 'chow') diets affects the onset and progression of hyperglycaemia in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice. METHODS: Female NOD mice were fed either unrefined diets or matched refined low- and high-fat diets. The onset of hyperglycaemia, glucose tolerance, food intake, energy expenditure, circulating insulin, liver gene expression and microbiome changes were measured for each dietary group. RESULTS: NOD mice consuming unrefined (chow) diets developed hyperglycaemia at similar frequencies. By contrast, mice consuming the defined high-fat diet had an accelerated onset of hyperglycaemia compared to the matched low-fat diet. There was no change in food intake, energy expenditure, or physical activity within each respective dietary group. Microbiome changes were driven by diet type, with chow diets clustering similarly, while refined low- and high-fat bacterial diversity also grouped closely. In the defined dietary cohort, liver gene expression changes in high-fat-fed mice were consistent with a greater frequency of hyperglycaemia and impaired glucose tolerance. CONCLUSION: Glucose intolerance is associated with an enhanced frequency of hyperglycaemia in female NOD mice fed a defined high-fat diet. Using an appropriate matched control diet is an essential experimental variable when studying changes in microbiome composition and diet as a modifier of disease risk.

Dealing with fibromyalgia in the family context: a qualitative description study.

Headings purpose: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic, nondegenerative disease with important limitations in patients. Its average global prevalence is 1.78%, and women are more affected than men (3:1). Due to the lack of objective diagnostic tools, it is a complex medical condition that is frequently unseen by patients' relatives and doctors, which might nonetheless have a noticeable impact on the patient's entourage.Material and Methods: This qualitative descriptive study aimed to elicit family members' views on how FM affects their lives. It was conducted in two community health centers (one rural and one urban) from the Sagunto Health Department (Valencia Community, Spain). We included seven focus groups with 41 family members. We analyzed the data gathered with an inductive thematic semantic analysis approach using NVivo 12 software.Results: We identified four major themes: (1) fibromyalgia as a nosological entity or an invention that is always burdensome; (2) children and spouses as caregivers (or not); (3) adverse effects of fibromyalgia on the couple's sexual life; and (4) harmful consequences of FM on the family economy. The findings showed a negative impact of the disease within the family context. Family members face complex and changing roles and difficulties when living with women with fibromyalgia.Conclusions: Relatives' better understanding of the disease, greater acceptance of new family roles, and improvement of patients' work conditions are all interventions that may help reduce the negative impact of FM in the family context.

Vázquez Canales LDM, Aguilar García-Iturrospe E, and Pereiro Berenguer I. Impact of fibromyalgia in the family context. FISABIO Foundation Primary Care Research Journey, Generalitat Valenciana (Valencia, Spain). 25th November 2021. Awarded Best Research Project in Primary Care Year 2021.Vázquez Canales LDM, Aguilar García-Iturrospe E, and Pereiro Berenguer I. Qualitative approach in the impact of fibromyalgia in the family context. IV Autonomic Fibromyalgia Journey for professionals and patients. Organized by Sagunto Hospital (Sagunto, Spain). 15th May 2018.Vázquez Canales LDM, Aguilar García-Iturrospe E, and Pereiro Berenguer I. Research project about the Impact of fibromyalgia in the family context. National Spanish Conference about Family Medicine. Organized by the Spanish Family Medicine Society (Madrid, Spain). 6^th May 2017.Vázquez Canales LDM, Aguilar García-Iturrospe E, and Pereiro Berenguer I. Quantitative approach in the impact of fibromyalgia in the family context. III Autonomic Fibromyalgia Journey for Professionals and Patients. Organized by Sagunto Hospital (Sagunto, Spain). 2^nd October 2017.

THE WATER-SOLUBLE CONTRAST FOR ADHESIVE SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION: ARE THERE ADVANTAGES?

BACKGROUND: Adhesive small bowel obstruction is one of the most common causes of surgical emergencies, representing about 15% of hospital admissions. Defining the need and timing of surgical intervention still remains a challenge. AIMS: To report the experience of using meglumine-based water-soluble contrast in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, comparing with the world literature. METHODS: Patients suspected of having adhesive small bowel obstruction, according to their clinical conditions, underwent an established protocol, consisting of the administration of water-soluble contrast, followed by plain abdominal radiograph within 12 hours and by a new clinical evaluation. The protocol was initiated after starting conservative management, including fasting and placement of a nasogastric tube, as well as intravenous fluid reposition. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were submitted to the protocol. The water-soluble contrast test sensitivity and specificity after the first radiograph were 94.6 and 91.0%, respectively; after the second radiograph, these values were 92.3 and 100%. The general test values for sensitivity and specificity were 91.9 and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The measure parameters evaluated in this study were similar to those found in the literature, contributing to endorse the importance of this test in the evaluation of patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction. The particular relevance of this study was the similar results that were found using a different type of meglumine-based contrast, which is available in Brazil.

NOD mice have distinct metabolic and immunologic profiles when compared with genetically similar MHC-matched ICR mice.

Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice are the most commonly used rodent model to study mechanisms relevant to the autoimmunity and immunology of type 1 diabetes. Although many different strains of mice have been used as controls for studies comparing nondiabetic lines to the NOD strain, we hypothesized that the parental strain that gave rise to the NOD line might be one of the best options. Therefore, we compared female ICR and NOD mice, which are matched at key major histocompatibility complex (MHC) loci, to understand their metabolic and immunologic similarities and differences. Several novel observations emerged: 1) NOD mice have greater circulating proinsulin when compared with ICR mice. 2) NOD mice display CD3+ and IBA1+ cell infiltration into and near pancreatic islets before hyperglycemia. 3) NOD mice show increased expression of the Il1b and Cxcl11 genes in islets when compared with islets from age-matched ICR mice. 4) NOD mice have a greater abundance of STAT1 and ICAM-1 protein in islets when compared with ICR mice. These data show that ICR mice, which are genetically similar to NOD mice, do not retain the same immunologic outcomes. Thus, ICR mice are an excellent choice as a genetically similar and MHC-matched control for NOD mice in studies designed to understand mechanisms relevant to autoimmune-mediated diabetes onset as well as novel therapeutic interventions.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice have more proinsulin in circulation and STAT1 protein in islets compared with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-matched ICR line. NOD mice also display greater expression of cytokines and chemokines in pancreatic islets consistent with immune cell infiltration before hyperglycemia when compared with age-matched ICR mice. Thus, ICR mice represent an excellent control for autoimmunity and inflammation studies using the NOD line of mice.

Persistência da sutura metópica em crânios secos adultos do Nordeste brasileiro: análise antropológica forense / Persistence of metopic suture in adult dry skulls from Northeast Brazil: a forensic anthropological analysis / Persistencia de la sutura metópica en cráneos secos adultos del Nordeste de Brasil: análisis antropológico forense

A sutura metópica forma-se aproximadamente no primeiro trimestre da vida intrauterina entre os dois centros de ossificação que irão formar o osso frontal. Há controvérsias na literatura em relação ao momento em que essa sutura oblitera, mas se sabe que ocorre antes dos dez anos de idade; entretanto, essa sutura pode não obliterar e persistir ao longo da vida do indivíduo. Este trabalho objetivou relatar a persistência da sutura metópica em crânios secos de esqueletos humanos adultos pertencentes ao Centro de Estudos em Antropologia Forense da Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade de Pernambuco (CEAF/FOP/UPE), com a finalidade de demonstrar a importância para a perícia antropológica forense. Dentre os 426 examinados, foram identificados dez crânios (2,4%) com a presença de sutura metópica completa, sendo 5 do sexo masculino e 5 do feminino, compreendendo uma faixa etária de 29 a 86 anos. A persistência da metópica possui relevância forense, afinal as variações anatômicas são vistas como estruturas que não são consequência de uma patologia e que diferem do encontrado na população geral, tornando o indivíduo que as possui ainda mais único. Dessa forma, essa variação anatômica pode atuar como auxiliar no processo de identificação humana na perícia antropológica forense... (AU)

The metopic suture forms approximately in the first trimester of intrauterine life between the two ossification centers that will form the frontal bone. There are controversies in the literature as to when this suture obliterates, but it is known to occur before the age of ten; however, this suture may not obliterate and persist throughout the individual's life. This work aimed to report the persistence of the metopic suture in dried skulls of adult human skeletons belonging to the Center for Studies in Forensic Anthropology of the School of Dentistry of the University of Pernambuco (CEAF/FOP/UPE) in order to demonstrate its importance for forensic anthropology. Among the 426 skeletons examined, ten skulls (2.4%) with complete metopic sutures were identified, five male and five female, ranging in age from 29 to 86 years. The persistence of metopic sutures has forensic relevance, after all, anatomical variations are seen as structures that are not a consequence of pathology and that differs from what is found in the general population, making the individual who has them even more unique. Thus, this anatomical variation can act as an aid in the process of human identification in forensic anthropology... (AU)

La sutura metópica se forma aproximadamente en el primer trimestre de vida intrauterina entre los dos centros de osificación que formarán el hueso frontal. Existen controversias en la literatura sobre el momento en que se oblitera esta sutura, pero se sabe que ocurre antes de los diez años; sin embargo, esta sutura puede no obliterarse y persistir durante toda la vida del individuo. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo informar sobre la persistencia de la sutura metópica en cráneos desecados de esqueletos humanos adultos pertenecientes al Centro de Estudos em Antropologia Forense de la Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade de Pernambuco (CEAF/FOP/UPE), con el fin de demostrar su importancia para la antropología forense. Entre los 426 esqueletos examinados, se identificaron diez cráneos (2,4%) con presencia de sutura metópica completa, 5 masculinos y 5 femeninos, con edades entre 29 y 86 años. La persistencia de la sutura metópica tiene relevancia forense, después de todo las variaciones anatómicas son vistas como estructuras que no son consecuencia de una patología y que difieren de lo que se encuentra en la población general, haciendo aún más único al individuo que las presenta. Así pues, esta variación anatómica puede servir de ayuda en el proceso de identificación humana en antropología forense... (AU)

First report of Nalanthamala vermoesenii causing pink rot of Phoenix canariensis in Mexico.

In Mexico City, the Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis Chabaud) is an important plant forming part of its landscape identity. In February 2022, pink rot disease symptoms were observed on 16 P. canariensis plants in Mexico City (19°25'43.98"N, 99° 9'49.41"W). The incidence was 27%, while the severity 12%. External symptoms included necrotic lesions that advanced from the petiole towards the rachis. Internal symptoms were rotted, dark brown discoloration in bud, petiole, and rachis. Abundant conidial masses were developed on the infected tissues. Pieces of diseased tissues (5-mm cubes) were surface sterilized for 2 min in 3% sodium hypochlorite, rinsed with sterilized distilled water, plated onto potato dextrose agar (PDA), and incubated at 24°C and 12-h photoperiod, 20 pink fungal colonies were developed with sparse aerial mycelia on PDA. Conidiophores were hyaline, dimorphic, penicillate, and Acremonium-like. Conidia were dimorphic, typically with somewhat truncated ends, 4.5 to 5.7 × 1.9 to 2.3 µm (mean 4.99 × 2.15, n = 100), borne in long chains on penicillate conidiophores; on Acremonium-like conidiophores conidia were cylindrical, straight, and slightly curved, 4.55 to 10.1 × 1.2 to 2.35 µm (mean 8.2 × 1.7, n = 100). These morphological characteristics resembled those of Nalanthamala vermoesenii (Biourge) Schroers (Schroers et al. 2005). Genomic DNA was extracted from the mycelia of a representative isolate CP-SP53. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the large subunit of ribosomal ribonucleic acid (LSU) were amplified and sequenced. The sequences were deposited in GenBank with accession numbers OQ581472 (ITS) and OQ581465 (LSU). Phylogenetic trees based on ITS and LSU sequences of Nalanthamala species were reconstructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. Isolate CP-SP53 was placed in the clade of Nalanthamala vermoesenii. The pathogenicity test was carried out twice with isolate CP-SP53 on five 3-year-old P. canariensis plants. Four petioles per plant were surface disinfected with 75% ethanol, and wounded with a sterilized scalpel (shallow cuts 0.5 cm wide). A mycelial plug (5 mm in diam.) of a 1-week-old PDA culture was placed on each wounded site. Sterile PDA plugs were used for five non-inoculated control plants. All plants were maintained at 22 ± 2°C and a 12-h photoperiod. Twenty-five days after inoculation (dai), wounded petioles showed the same symptoms observed in the field, whereas control plants remained healthy. Forty-five dai, all inoculated plants died. Pink conidial masses developed on symptomatic tissues. To fulfill Koch's postulates, the pathogen was reisolated by placing the pink conidial masses onto PDA. The colony characteristics and morphometric measurements were identical to those of isolate CP-SP53. Nalanthamala vermoesenii has been reported on P. canariensis in Greece and United States (Feather et al. 1979; Ligoxigakis et al. 2013) and Syagrus romanzoffiana in Egypt (Mohamed et al. 2016). To our knowledge, this is the first report of Nalanthamala vermoesenii as the causal agent of pink rot on P. canariensis in Mexico. This plant is the most commonly planted ornamental palm in Mexico City. The spread of N. vermoesenii could be a threat for the estimated 15 thousand palms, therefore dramatically change the urban landscape.

Use of Envelope Domain III Protein for the Detection of IgG Type Antibodies Specific to Zika Virus by Indirect ELISA.

Zika virus (ZIKV) diagnostics are crucial for proper antenatal and postnatal care and also for surveillance and serosurvey studies. Since the viremia during ZIKV infection is fleeting, serological testing is highly valuable to inform diagnosis. However, current serology tests using whole virus antigens frequently suffer from cross reactivity issues, delays, and technical complexity, especially in low and middle income countries (LMICs) and endemic countries. Here, we describe an indirect ELISA to detect specific IgG antibodies using the ZIKV envelope domain III (EDIII) protein expressed in Drosophila S2 cells as an immunogen. Using a total of 367 clinical samples, we showed that the EDIII-ELISA was able to detect IgG antibodies against ZIKV with high sensitivity of 100.0% and specificity of 94.7% when compared to plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNTs) as the gold standard and using 0.208 as the cut-off OD value. These results show the usefulness of the recombinant envelope domain III as an alternative to standard whole virus proteins for ZIKV diagnostics as it improves the sensitivity and specificity of IgG ELISA assay when used as an immunogen. This method should, therefore, be extended to serological diagnostic techniques for other members of the flavivirus genus and for use in IgM diagnostic testing.

O perfil antropométrico pode influenciar no desempenho de ciclistas mulheres de elite: um estudo de corte transversal / Anthropometric profile can influence the performance of elite female cyclists: a cross-sectional study / El perfil antropométrico puede influir en el rendimiento de mujeres ciclistas de élite: un estudio transversal

Objetivo: analisar a relação entre o perfil antropométrico e o desempenho em provas de ciclismo de estrada de atletas de elite do sexo feminino. Metodologia: Foram avaliadas 22 ciclistas divididas em dois grupos: ciclistas de nível nacional (GN; n = 12) e cliclistas de nível estadual (GE; n = 10). O desempenho das atletas do GN foi obtido no Campeonato Brasileiro e do GE nos Jogos Abertos do Paraná, ambos em 2019. A comparação das medidas antropométricas entre grupos foi calculada por meio do teste t two-tailed de Student não pareado. A relação entre as variáveis intragrupo foi analisada através do teste de correlação de Pearson. Resultados e Discussão: Foi identificada diferença significativa entre os grupos no valor da massa óssea (GN = 6,70 ± 0,67 kg; GE = 7,29 ± 0,53 kg; p = 0,036). Verificou-se também: correlação positiva e moderada entre percentual de gordura e desempenho esportivo no GN nas provas Estrada (r=0,33) e contrarrelógio individual (CRI) (r= 0,36); Correlação negativa e forte no GN entre idade e desempenho esportivo nas provas Estrada (r= -0,53) e CRI (r= -0,58); Correlação negativa e moderada no GN entre Massa Muscular e Desempenho esportivo na prova Estrada (r= -0,38); Correlação negativa e forte no GN entre Massa Muscular e Desempenho esportivo na prova CRI. Conclusão: Conclui-se que o desempenho esportivo das atletas de elite pode ser alcançado com perfis antropométricos e etários distintos, e evidenciam que o rendimento não depende exclusivamente de uma única variável.

Objective: to analyze the relationship between the anthropometric profile and performance in cycling events of elite female athletes. Methodology: Were evaluated 22 female cyclists divided into two groups: national level cyclists (GN n = 12) and state level cyclists (GE, n = 10). The performance of GN was obtained in the Brazilian Championship and GE in Parana Open Games, both in 2019. The comparison of anthropometric measurements between groups was calculated by testing t two-tailed the student unpaired. The relationship between intra-group variables was analyzed using the Pearson correlation test. Results and discussion: A significant difference were identified between the groups in bone mass value (GN = 6.70 ± 0.67 kg; GE = 7.29 ± 0.53 kg; p = 0.036). We also verified: an moderate positive correlation in GN between fat percentage and the performance in road cycling (r = 0.33) and time trial (TT) competitions (r = 0.36); Negative and strong correlation in GN between age and performance in road cycling (r= -0.53) and TT competitions (r= -0.58); Negative and moderate correlation in GN between muscle mass and performance in the road cycling (r= -0.38); Negative and strong correlation in GN between muscle mass and performance in the TT competition. Conclusion: It is concluded that the sports performance of elite athletes can be achieved with different anthropometric and age profiles and show that performance does not depend exclusively on a single variable.

Objetivo: analizar la relación entre el perfil antropométrico y el rendimiento en eventos de ciclismo de atletas de élite. Metodología: Se evaluó a un total de 22 mujeres divididas en dos grupos: ciclistas de nivel nacional (GN n = 12) y cliclistas de nivel estatal (GE, n = 10). El desempeño de las atletas de GN se obtuvo en el Campeonato Brasileño y de la GE en los Juegos Abiertos de Paraná, ambos en 2019. La comparación de medidas antropométricas entre grupos se calculó mediante la prueba two-tailed de Student no pareado. La relación entre variables intragrupo se analizó mediante la prueba de correlación de Pearson. Resultados y discusión: Se identificó una diferencia significativa entre los grupos en el valor de la masa ósea (GN = 6,70 ± 0,67 kg; GE = 7,29 ± 0,53 kg; p = 0,036). También se verificó: correlación positiva moderada en GN entre el porcentaje de grasa y el rendimiento en pruebas de ciclismo de ruta (r = 0,33) y contrarreloj individual (CRI) (r = 0,36); Correlación negativa y fuerte en GN entre edad y rendimiento en las pruebas de ciclismo de ruta (r = -0.53) y CRI (r = -0.58); Correlación negativa y moderada en GN entre masa muscular y rendimiento en el prueba de ciclismo de ruta (r = -0,38); Correlación negativa y fuerte en GN entre la masa muscular y el rendimiento en la prueba de CRI. Conclusión: Se concluye que el rendimiento deportivo de los deportistas de élite se puede conseguir con diferentes perfiles antropométricos y etarios, y se demuestra que el rendimiento no depende exclusivamente de una sola variable.

The water-soluble contrast for adhesive small bowel obstruction: are there advantages? / O contraste hidrossolúvel na obstrução intestinal por bridas: há vantagens?

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Adhesive small bowel obstruction is one of the most common causes of surgical emergencies, representing about 15% of hospital admissions. Defining the need and timing of surgical intervention still remains a challenge. AIMS: To report the experience of using meglumine-based water-soluble contrast in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, comparing with the world literature. METHODS: Patients suspected of having adhesive small bowel obstruction, according to their clinical conditions, underwent an established protocol, consisting of the administration of water-soluble contrast, followed by plain abdominal radiograph within 12 hours and by a new clinical evaluation. The protocol was initiated after starting conservative management, including fasting and placement of a nasogastric tube, as well as intravenous fluid reposition. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were submitted to the protocol. The water-soluble contrast test sensitivity and specificity after the first radiograph were 94.6 and 91.0%, respectively; after the second radiograph, these values were 92.3 and 100%. The general test values for sensitivity and specificity were 91.9 and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The measure parameters evaluated in this study were similar to those found in the literature, contributing to endorse the importance of this test in the evaluation of patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction. The particular relevance of this study was the similar results that were found using a different type of meglumine-based contrast, which is available in Brazil.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A obstrução intestinal por bridas é uma das causas mais comuns de atendimento em emergências cirúrgicas, representando cerca de 15% das internações hospitalares. Definir a necessidade e o momento da intervenção cirúrgica ainda permanece um desafio. OBJETIVOS: Relatar a experiência do uso de contraste hidrossolúvel à base de meglumina em um hospital terciário do sul do Brasil, comparando com a literatura mundial. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com suspeita de obstrução do intestino delgado por bridas, de acordo com suas condições clínicas, foram submetidos a um protocolo estabelecido, que consiste na administração de contraste hidrossolúvel, seguido de radiografia abdominal simples em 12 horas e, posteriormente, de nova avaliação clínica. O protocolo foi iniciado após manejo conservador inicial, incluindo jejum e sonda nasogástrica, bem como reposição de fluidos intravenosos. RESULTADOS: Foram submetidos ao protocolo 126 pacientes. A sensibilidade e a especificidade após a primeira radiografia foram de 94,6 e de 91%, respectivamente; após a segunda radiografia, esses valores foram de 92,3 e 100%. Os valores gerais do teste para sensibilidade e especificidade foram 91,9 e 100%. CONCLUSÕES: Os parâmetros de medida avaliados neste estudo foram semelhantes aos encontrados na literatura, contribuindo para endossar a importância deste teste na avaliação de pacientes com obstrução adesiva do intestino delgado. A relevância particular deste estudo foram os resultados semelhantes encontrados usando tipos diferente de contraste hidrossolúveis, disponíveis no Brasil.

Tecnologías de la información y comunicación, ansiedad y consumo de drogas lícitas en adolescentes / Information and communication technologies, anxiety and legal drug use in adolescents / Tecnologias de informação e comunicação, ansiedade e uso de drogas lícitas em adolescentes

Objetivo: identificar la relación entre el uso de las tecnologías de la información y comunicación (TIC ́s) y la ansiedad, el consumo de alcohol y tabaco en adolescentes de secundaria de Puebla, México.Método: estudio descriptivo correlacional, realizado con 301 adolescentes de una escuela pública en 2018. Se aplicó el Cuestionario de Detección de Nuevas Adicciones y Escala de Ansiedad de Hamilton. Para análisis estadístico, el coeficiente de KolmogorovSmirnov e Ude Mann Whitney, correlación de Spearman y regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: el uso medio de las TIC ́s fue de 84,36 (DE = 15,1). Internet (M = 16.72, SD = 4.6) y teléfonos celulares (M = 15.52, SD = 5.0) fueron los más utilizados. El uso de las TIC ́s y la ansiedad fueron estadísticamente significativos (F=21.719, p=.001), donde internet y la televisión predijeron la ansiedad. Sobre el uso de TIC ́s y consumo de alcohol (F = 3.745, p =.001) indica que lo que predice esta condición es el uso de celulares. En el caso de las TIC ́s con el consumo de tabaco no hubo significación estadística. Conclusión: existe relación con el uso de las TIC ́s, la ansiedad y el consumo de alcohol en estudiantes de secundaria del estado de Puebla.

Objective: to identify the relationship between the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and anxiety, alcohol and tobacco consumption in highschool adolescents from Puebla, Mexico. Method: descriptive correlational study, carried out with 301 adolescents from a public school in 2018. The New Addictions Detection Questionnaire and Hamilton Anxiety Scale were applied. For statistical analysis, the Kolmogorov Smirnov coefficient and Mann Whitney U, Spearman correlation and multiple linear regression. Results: the mean use of ICTs was 84.36 (SD = 15.1). Internet (M = 16.72, SD = 4.6) and cell phones (M = 15.52, SD = 5.0) were the most used. The useof ICTs and anxiety were statistically significant (F=21.719, p=.001), where the Internet and television predicted anxiety. About the use of ICTs and alcohol consumption (F = 3.745, p =.001) indicates that what this condition predicts is the use of cell phones. In the case of ICTs with tobacco use, there was no statistical significance. Conclusion: there is a relationship with the use of ICTs, anxiety and alcohol consumption in high school students in the state of Puebla.

Objetivo:identificar a relação entre o uso de tecnologias de informação e comunicação (TIC) e ansiedade, consumo de álcool e tabaco em adolescentes do ensino médio de Puebla, México. Método: estudo descritivo correlacional, realizado com 301 adolescentes de uma escola pública no ano de 2018. Foram aplicados o New Addictions Detection Questionnaire e a Hamilton Anxiety Scale. Para análise estatística, o coeficiente de Kolmogorov Smirnov e Mann Whitney U, correlação de Spearman e regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: o uso médio de TIC foi de 84.36 (DP= 15.1). A internet (M = 16.72, DP = 4.6) e o celular (M= 15.52, DP= 5.0) foram os mais utilizados. O uso de TIC e ansiedade foi estatisticamente significativo (F = 21.719, p =.001), onde a internet e a televisão predizem a ansiedade. Sobre o uso de TIC e consumo de álcool (F = 3.745, p =.001) indica que quem prediz essa condição é o uso de celulares. No caso das TIC com uso de tabaco, não houve significância estatística. Conclusão: existe uma relação com o uso de TIC, ansiedade e consumo de álcool em estudantes do ensino médio no estado de Puebla.

ONLAY VERSUS SUBLAY TECHNIQUES FOR INCISIONAL HERNIA REPAIR: 30-DAY POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOMES.

BACKGROUND: The development of an incisional hernia is a common complication following laparotomy. It also has an important economic impact on healthcare systems and social security budget. The mesh reinforcement of the abdominal wall was an important advancement to increase the success of the repairs and reduce its long-term recurrence. The two most common locations for mesh placement in ventral hernia repairs include the premuscular (onlay technique) and retromuscular planes (sublay technique). However, until now, there is no consensus in the literature about the ideal location of the mesh. AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the two most common incisional hernia repair techniques (onlay and sublay) with regard to the complication rate within the first 30 days of postoperative care. METHOD: This study analyzes 115 patients who underwent either onlay or sublay incisional hernia repairs and evaluates the 30-day postoperative surgical site occurrences and hernia recurrence for each technique. RESULTS: We found no difference in the results between the groups, except in seroma formation, which was higher in patients submitted to the sublay technique, probably due to the lower rate of drain placement in this group. CONCLUSION: Both techniques of mesh placement seem to be adequate in the repair of incisional hernias, with no major difference in surgical site occurrences.

Modulation of HERV Expression by Four Different Encephalitic Arboviruses during Infection of Human Primary Astrocytes.

Human retroelements (HERVs) are retroviral origin sequences fixed in the human genome. HERVs induction is associated with neurogenesis, cellular development, immune activation, and neurological disorders. Arboviruses are often associated with the development of encephalitis. The interplay between these viruses and HERVs has not been fully elucidated. In this work, we analyzed RNAseq data derived from infected human primary astrocytes by Zika (ZikV), Mayaro (MayV), Oropouche (OroV) and Chikungunya (ChikV) viruses, and evaluated the modulation of HERVs and their nearby genes. Our data show common HERVs expression modulation by both alphaviruses, suggesting conserved evolutionary routes of transcription regulation. A total of 15 HERVs were co-modulated by the four arboviruses, including the highly upregulated HERV4_4q22. Data on the upregulation of genes nearby to these elements in ChikV, MayV and OroV infections were also obtained, and interaction networks were built. The upregulation of 14 genes common among all viruses was observed in the networks, and 93 genes between MayV and ChikV. These genes are related to cellular processes such as cellular replication, cytoskeleton, cell vesicle traffic and antiviral response. Together, our results support the role of HERVs induction in the transcription regulation process of genes during arboviral infections.

Sulforaphane Effects on Cardiac Function and Calcium-Handling-Related Proteins in 2 Experimental Models of Heart Disease: Ischemia-Reperfusion and Infarction.

ABSTRACT: Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural exogenous antioxidant from cruciferous vegetables already shown to improve cardiac function in cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of SFN treatment on the cardiac function in 2 experimental models of heart disease, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and myocardial infarction (MI), and whether an improvement of the cardiac function could be associated with a modulation of calcium-handling proteins. The study was divided into 2 main experiments: experiment 1, ex vivo with the I/R model and experiment 2, in vivo with the MI model. In the I/R model, rats were divided into control and SFN (0.5 mg/kg/d intraperitoneally for 3 days) groups, and the hearts were submitted to global ischemia (20 minutes) followed by reperfusion (20 minutes) in a Langendorff apparatus. SFN did not change left ventricle systolic and diastolic pressures but increased the contractility and relaxation indexes after 20 minutes of reperfusion. These functional changes were accompanied by a decreased protein expression of ryanodine receptor (RyR) and increased expression of p-phospholamban/phospholamban ratio, without alteration in the sarco/endoplasmic calcium ATPase expression. In the MI model, rats were randomly divided into Sham, MI (MI induced by left coronary artery ligation), Sham + SFN (5 mg/kg/d intraperitoneally for 25 days), and MI + SFN groups. Although SFN did not affect cardiac function, it led to a decreased RyR protein expression and reactive oxygen species levels in the left ventricular of the MI + SFN group. These data indicate that SFN modulates calcium-handling proteins and, thus, cardiac inotropism/lusitropism especially when administered previously to an ischemic event.

Phenolic compounds of Eugenia involucrata (Myrtaceae) extracts and associated antioxidant and inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase and α-glucosidase.

Eugenia involucrata DC. (Myrtaceae), popularly known as "cereja-do-Rio-Grande", is a native tree from Brazil, popularly used as a hypoglycemiant. Crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) and fractions (insoluble (FI), dichloromethane (FDM), ethyl acetate (FEA) and butanol (FBu)) of leaves were assessed to determine the phenolic chemical composition by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. 10 compounds were identified, being 7 new for this species: rutin, isoquercitrin, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, mandelic acid, naringenin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside and salicylic acid. Extract and fractions showed inhibitory activity on acetylcholinesterase (AchE) enzyme (best result: IC50 = 44.19 µg mL-1, for FEA) and α-glucosidase (α-Glu) (best result: IC50 = 31.25 ± 0.15 µg mL-1, for CHE). The observed antioxidant and inhibitory activity on the AchE and α-Glu is due to, at least in part, the presence of phenolic compounds in the samples.

Onlay versus sublay techniques for incisional hernia repair: 30-day postoperative outcomes / Comparação das técnicas onlay e sublay para correção de hérnia incisional: desfechos nos primeiros 30 dias pós-operatórios

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The development of an incisional hernia is a common complication following laparotomy. It also has an important economic impact on healthcare systems and social security budget. The mesh reinforcement of the abdominal wall was an important advancement to increase the success of the repairs and reduce its long-term recurrence. The two most common locations for mesh placement in ventral hernia repairs include the premuscular (onlay technique) and retromuscular planes (sublay technique). However, until now, there is no consensus in the literature about the ideal location of the mesh. AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the two most common incisional hernia repair techniques (onlay and sublay) with regard to the complication rate within the first 30 days of postoperative care. METHOD: This study analyzes 115 patients who underwent either onlay or sublay incisional hernia repairs and evaluates the 30-day postoperative surgical site occurrences and hernia recurrence for each technique. RESULTS: We found no difference in the results between the groups, except in seroma formation, which was higher in patients submitted to the sublay technique, probably due to the lower rate of drain placement in this group. CONCLUSION: Both techniques of mesh placement seem to be adequate in the repair of incisional hernias, with no major difference in surgical site occurrences.

RESUMO RACIONAL: O desenvolvimento de hérnia incisional é uma complicação comum após laparotomias. Também tem um impacto econômico importante nos sistemas de saúde e no orçamento da previdência social. O reforço com tela da parede abdominal foi um avanço importante para aumentar o sucesso dos reparos e ajudou a reduzir sua recorrência em longo prazo. Os dois locais mais comuns para colocação de tela em reparos de hérnia incisional incluem os planos pré-muscular (técnica onlay) e retromuscular (técnica sublay). Porém, até o momento, não há consenso na literatura sobre a localização ideal da tela. OBJETIVOS: Comparar as duas técnicas de reparo de hérnia incisional mais comuns (onlay e sublay) em relação à taxa de complicações nos primeiros 30 dias de pós-operatório. MÉTODO: Analisar 115 pacientes submetidos a reparos de hérnia incisional onlay ou sublay e avaliar, como desfecho, as ocorrências de sítio cirúrgico no pós-operatório de trinta dias e a recorrência precoce para cada técnica. RESULTADOS: Não encontramos diferença nos resultados entre os grupos, exceto na formação de seroma, que foi maior nos pacientes submetidos à técnica de sublay, provavelmente pela menor taxa de colocação de dreno neste grupo. CONCLUSÃO: Assim, ambas as técnicas de colocação de tela parecem ser adequadas no reparo de hérnias incisionais, sem grande diferença nos desfechos precoces, relacionados a ao sítio cirúrgico.

Itinerário terapêutico de pessoas transgênero: assistência despersonalizada e produtora de iniquidades / Therapeutic itinerary for transgender people: depersonalized care produces iniquities

Resumo Este artigo analisa o itinerário terapêutico de pessoas transgênero em uma cidade do interior da Bahia. Os participantes foram selecionados pelo critério do método da "bola de neve" e utilizou-se entrevista semiestruturada para produção dos dados. Na análise dos itinerários terapêuticos, emergiram três categorias temáticas: 1) Lugares de busca para o cuidado em saúde: traçadores de iniquidades no SUS; 2) Abordagem profissional: reforça os estigmas e cinde a relação terapêutica; e 3) Demandas específicas por cuidado: percalços ao longo do itinerário terapêutico. Os resultados mostraram que o acesso ao serviço formal esteve permeado por barreiras simbólicas, técnicas e/ou organizacionais que, muitas vezes, transferiam para cada um/uma dos/as entrevistados/as a responsabilidade pela busca de outros percursos formais ou recomposição do cuidado por trajetórias nem sempre seguras. A busca pelo setor privado foi preponderante e, paralelamente, houve a desvalorização do SUS. O estigma institucional resultou em abandono de tratamento, retardo na busca por cuidado ou desistência de procura aos serviços. Por fim, a dificuldade de acesso no SUS produzia iniquidades e conduzia as pessoas transgênero, sobretudo as mais vulneráveis, a exposição e experimentação de procedimentos, muitas vezes, inadequados.

Abstract This article examines the therapeutic itineraries of transgender people in a city in the Bahia countryside. Participants were selected using the "snowball" method using semi-structured interviews to produce the data. In the analysis of therapeutic itineraries three thematic categories emerged: 1) Locus of seeking health care: tracers of inequities in SUS; 2) Professional approach: reinforcing stigmas and interrupting the therapeutic relationship; and 3) Specific demands for care: mishaps along the therapeutic itinerary. Results showed that access to formal services was permeated by symbolic, technical and/or organizational barriers. Those barriers frequently transferred the responsibility for the search of alternative formal paths or the restoration of care upon the interviewees, by using trajectories oftentimes unsafe. The search for the private sector was predominant and, in parallel, there was a depreciation of SUS. The institutional stigma resulted in treatment abandonment, delay in looking for care or giving up seeking services. Finally, the difficulties in accessing the SUS produced inequities leading transgender people, especially the most vulnerable, to be exposed and to experiment with often-inadequate procedures.

Depresión y calidad de vida en pacientes con tratamiento de hemodiálisis / Depression and quality of life in patients with hemodialysis treatment / Depressão e qualidade de vida em pacientes com tratamento de hemodiálise

RESUMEN Objetivo:relacionar la depresión y calidad de vida en pacientes con hemodiálisis. Método:estudio descriptivo y correlacional, con pacientes entre 18 y 65 años en hemodiálisis, en una institución de salud del estado de Puebla, México. Se aplicaron el Inventario de Depresión de Beck y el cuestionario WHOKOL-BREF, en el mes de marzo del 2020. Para el análisis se utilizó la correlación de Spearman y la U de Mann Whitney. Resultados:el 61% de la población fueron hombres, la edad osciló de 34 a 49 años. Más del 50% tenía de 6 a 10 años con hemodiálisis. El 41.7% presentó depresión leve, 20.8 moderada y 37.5% mínima. El promedio de calidad de vida fue 56.3 (DE = 6.3). Existe relación negativa y significativa entre la depresión y calidad de vida (rs= -.530, p =.001). Conclusión:la presencia de depresión en pacientes en hemodiálisis presenta cambios en las relaciones sociales y en la salud física, y cuanto mayor es la depresión, menor es la calidad de vida.

ABSTRACTObjective:to relate depression and quality of life in hemodialysis patients. Method:descriptive and correlational study, with patients aged between 18 and 65 years on hemodialysis, in a health institution in the state of Puebla, Mexico. The Beck Depression Inventory and the WHOKOL-BREF questionnaire were applied in march 2020. For the analysis, the Spearman correlation and the Mann Whitney U were used. Results:61% of the population was formed by men, whose age varied from 34 to 49 years old. More than 50% had from 6 to 10 years with a hemodialysis treatment. 41.7% showed mild depression, 20.8 moderate and 37.5 low. The average quality of life was 56.3 (SD=6.3). There is a negative and significant relationship between depression and quality of life (rs = -.530, p =.001). Conclusion:the presence of depression in hemodialysis patients presents changes in social relationships and physical health, and the greater the depression, the lower the quality of life.

RESUMO Objetivo:relacionar depressão e qualidade de vida em pacientes em hemodiálise. Método:estudo descritivo e correlacional, com pacientes entre 18 e 65 anos em tratamento hemodialítico, em uma instituição de saúde do estado de Puebla, México. Foram aplicados o Inventário de Depressão de Beck e o questionário WHOKOL-BREF, no mês de março de2020. Para a análise, utilizou-se a correlação de Spearman e o U de Mann Whitney. Resultados:61% da população foram homens, a idade variou de 34 a 49 anos. Mais do 50% tinham de 6 a 10 anos em hemodiálise. 41,7% apresentaram depressão leve, 20,8 moderada e 37,5% mínima. A média da qualidade de vida foi de 56,3 (DP = 6,3). Existe uma relação negativa e significativa entre depressão e qualidade de vida (rs = -.530, p = .001). Conclusão:a presença de depressão em pacientes em hemodiálise apresenta alterações nas relações sociais e na saúde física, sendo que quanto maior a depressão, menor qualidade de vida.

The brief methylprednisolone administration is crucial to mitigate cardiac dysfunction after myocardial infarction.

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the major causes of heart failure and mortality. Glucocorticoids administration post-infarction has long been proposed, but it has shown conflicting results so far. This controversy may be associated with the glucocorticoid type and the period when it is administered. To elucidate these, the present aims to evaluate if the brief methylprednisolone acetate administration is determinant for heart adaptation after AMI. Male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: sham-operated (SHAM); infarcted (AMI); infarcted treated with methylprednisolone acetate (AMI+M). Immediately after surgery, the AMI+M group received a single dose of methylprednisolone acetate (40 mg/kg i.m.). After 56 days, the cardiac function was assessed and lungs, liver and heart were collected to determine rates of hypertrophy and congestion. Heart was used for oxidative stress and metalloproteinase activity analyses. Methylprednisolone acetate attenuated matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity, cardiac dilatation, and prevented the onset of pulmonary congestion, as well as avoided cardiac hypertrophy. Our data indicate that administration of methylprednisolone acetate shortly after AMI may be a therapeutic alternative for attenuation of detrimental ventricular remodeling.