Effects of different diets on Aedes aegypti adults: improving rearing techniques for sterile insect technique.

The aim was to evaluate the effect of different energy diets available in adulthood on the longevity, dispersal capacity and sexual performance of Aedes aegypti produced under a mass-rearing system. To evaluate the effects of diets in relation to the survival of the adult male insects of Ae. aegypti, six treatments were used: sucrose at a concentration of 10%, as a positive control (sack10); starvation, as a negative control (starvation); sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with 1 g/l of ascorbic acid (sac20vitC); wild honey in a concentration of 10% (honey10); demerara sugar in a 10% concentration (demerara10); and sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with 1 g/l of ascorbic acid and 0.5 g/l of amino acid proline (sac20vitCPr). Each treatment had 16 cages containing 50 adult males. For the tests of flight ability and propensity to copulation, five treatments were used (saca10; sac20vitC; mel10; demerara10; and sac20vitCPr), with males each for flight ability and females copulated by a single male for copulation propensity. The diet composed of sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with ascorbic acid, as an antioxidant, improved the survival, flight ability and propensity to copulate in Ae. aegypti males under mass-rearing conditions, and may be useful to enhance the performance of sterile males, thus improving the success of sterile insect technique programmes.

Thiazole, isatin and phthalimide derivatives tested in vivo against cancer models: a literature review of the last six years.

BACKGROUND: Cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal multiplication of cells and is the second leading cause of death in the world. The search for new effective and safe anticancer compounds is ongoing due to factors such as low selectivity, high toxicity, and multidrug resistance. Thus, heterocyclic compounds derived from isatin, thiazole and phthalimide that have achieved promising in vitro anticancer activity have been tested in vivo and in clinical trials. OBJECTIVE: This review focused on the compilation of promising data from thiazole, isatin, and phthalimide derivatives, reported in the literature between 2015 and 2022, with in vivo anticancer activity and clinical trials. METHOD: A bibliographic search was carried out in the PUBMED, MEDLINE, ELSEVIER, and CAPES PERIODIC databases, selecting relevant works for each pharmacophoric group with in vivo antitumor activity in the last 6 years. RESULTS: In our study, 68 articles that fit the scope were selected and critically analyzed. These articles were organized considering the type of antitumor activity and their year of publication. Some compounds reported here demonstrated potent antitumor activity against several tumor types. CONCLUSION: This review allowed us to highlight works that reported promising structures for the treatment of various cancer types and also demonstrated that the privileged structures thiazole, isatin and phthalimide are important in the design of new syntheses and molecular optimization of compounds with antitumor activity.

Structural design, synthesis, and anti-Trypanosomatidae profile of new Pyridyl-thiazolidinones.

The present work reports the synthesis of a novel series of pyridine-thiazolidinones with anti-Trypanosoma cruzi and leishmanicidal activities (compounds 10-27), derived from 2 or 4-pyridine thiosemicarbazones (1-9). The in vitro assays were performed with Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes and amastigotes, as well as with Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and amastigotes. The cytotoxicity profile was evaluated using the cell line RAW 264.7. From the 18 pyridine-thiazolidinones, 5 were able to inhibit trypomastigotes. Overall, all compounds inhibited amastigotes, highlighting compounds 15 (0.60 µM), 18 (0.64 µM), 17 (0.81 µM), and 27 (0.89 µM). Compounds 15 and 18 were able to induce parasite cell death through necrosis induction. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy showed that T. cruzi trypomastigotes treated with compounds 15 and 18 induced morphological changes such as shortening, retraction and curvature of the parasite body and leakage of internal content. Regarding the antiparasitic evaluation against Leishmania amazonensis, only compound 27 had a higher selectivity compared to Miltefosine against the amastigote form (IC50 = 5.70 µM). Our results showed that compound 27 presented an antiparasitic activity for both Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania amazonensis. After in silico evaluation, it was suggested that the new pyridine-thiazolidinones had an appropriate drug-likeness profile. Our results pointed out a new chemical frame with an anti-Trypanosomatidae profile. The pyridine-thiazolidinones presented here for the first time could be used as a starting point for the development of new antiparasitic agents.

Avaliação de risco dos pés de pessoas com diabetes mellitus residentes de um bairro de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Prevalence and risk classification of feet with diabetic neuropathy mellitus in residents of a neighborhood of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Prevalencia y clasificación de riesgo de pies con neuropatía diabética mellitus en residentes de un barrio de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Introdução: O Diabetes Mellitus pode ocasionar inúmeras complicações crônicas ao longo do tempo. Dentre elas, destaca-se a neuropatia diabética que compreende um conjunto de doenças que atinge as fibras nervosas. Este estudo tem como objetivo descrever o grau de risco dos pés de pessoas com Diabetes Mellitus que utilizam insulina, residentes em um bairro da zona urbana de Pelotas, RS. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo descritivo. A coleta de dados ocorreu na zona norte da cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. A coleta de dados foi realizada na residência dos participantes, entre maio e junho de 2017, contou com a participação de 39 pessoas com pés com neuropatia por Diabetes Mellitus. Resultados: Os entrevistados tinham, predominantemente diabetes tipo 2, perfazendo 89,7%, sendo o tempo de diagnóstico, com o mínimo de 3 anos, até 40 anos de evolução da doença. Sobre a avaliação da neuropatia diabética, 43,6% apresentam dor ao caminhar. Dormência e perda de sensibilidade foi mencionado por 41%. Conclusão: Foi possível elencar o grau de risco para complicações nos pés de usuários com Diabetes Mellitus, esse achado demonstra a importância que as equipes de saúde têm na prevenção de doenças, assim como na promoção da saúde, evitando as ulcerações e posteriores, amputações.

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus can cause numerous chronic complications over time. Among them, diabetic neuropathy stands out, which comprises a set of diseases that affect the nerve fibers. This study aims to describe the degree of risk of the feet of people with Diabetes Mellitus who use insulin, living in a neighborhood in the urban area of Pelotas, RS. Materials and methods: This is a descriptive quantitative study. Data collection took place in the northern part of the city of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. Data collection was carried out at the participants' homes, between May and June 2017, with the participation of 39 people with feet with Diabetes Mellitus neuropathy. Results: Respondents had predominantly type 2 diabetes, accounting for 89.7%, with the time since diagnosis, with a minimum of 3 years, up to 40 years of disease evolution. Regarding the assessment of diabetic neuropathy, 43.6% present pain when walking. Numbness and loss of sensation was mentioned by 41%. Conclusions: It was possible to list the degree of risk for complications in the feet of users with Diabetes Mellitus, this finding demonstrates the importance that health teams have in preventing diseases, as well as in promoting health, avoiding ulcerations and subsequent amputations.

Introducción: La Diabetes Mellitus puede causar numerosas complicaciones crónicas con el tiempo. Entre ellas destaca la neuropatía diabética, que comprende un conjunto de enfermedades que afectan a las fibras nerviosas. Este estudio tiene como objetivo describir el grado de riesgo de los pies de personas con Diabetes Mellitus usuarias de insulina, residentes en un barrio del área urbana de Pelotas, RS. Materiales y Métodos: Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo descriptivo. La recolección de datos ocurrió en la zona norte de la ciudad de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. La recolección de datos se realizó en los domicilios de los participantes, entre mayo y junio de 2017, con la participación de 39 personas con pies con neuropatía Diabética Mellitus. Resultados: Los encuestados tenían predominantemente diabetes tipo 2, representando el 89,7%, con el tiempo desde el diagnóstico, con un mínimo de 3 años, hasta los 40 años de evolución de la enfermedad. En cuanto a la valoración de la neuropatía diabética, el 43,6% presenta dolor al caminar. El 41% mencionó entumecimiento y pérdida de sensibilidad. Conclusiones: Se pudo enumerar el grado de riesgo de complicaciones en los pies de los usuarios con Diabetes Mellitus, este hallazgo demuestra la importancia que tienen los equipos de salud en la prevención de enfermedades, así como en la promoción de la salud, evitando ulceraciones y posteriores amputaciones.

Synthesis, ADMET Prediction, and Antitumor Profile of Phenoxyhydrazine- 1,3-thiazoles Derivatives.

BACKGROUND: Cancer is one of the most important barriers to increasing life expectancy in all countries in the 21st century. Investigations of new anti-cancer drugs with low side effects are an urgent demand for medicinal chemists. Considering the known antitumor and immunomodulatory activity of thiazoles, this work presents the synthesis and antineoplastic activity of new thiazoles. METHODS: The 22 new compounds (2a-v) were synthesized from different thiosemicarbazones and 2-bromoacetophenone. The compounds were evaluated on: MOLT-4, HL-60, HL-60/MX1, MM1S, SKMEL-28, DU145, MCF-7, and T47d. RESULTS: Compound 2b induced cellular viability on MOLT-4 (37.1%), DU145 (41.5%), and HL- 60/MX1 (58.8%) cells. On MOLT-4 cells, compound 2b exhibited an IC50 of 8.03 µM, and against DU145 cells, an IC50 of 6.04µM. Besides, at IC50 and fold of IC50, 20% to 30% of dead cells were found, most due to necrosis/late apoptosis. Most compounds no showed cytotoxicity against fibroblast cells L929 at the concentrations tested. The compound did not alter the cell cycle of DU145 cells when compared to the negative control. Therefore, compound 2b stands out against DU145 and MOLT-4 cells. CONCLUSION: Our study reinforced the importance of 1,3-thiazoles nuclei in antitumor activity. In addition, derivative 2b stands out against DU145 and MOLT-4 cells and could be a starting point for developing new antineoplastic agents.

A chalcone identified by in silico and in vitro assays possesses high larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector of important viral diseases in tropical countries, as Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue fever. The use of the chemical control of the insect life cycle is one of the most popular strategies used as prophylactic for the human population exposed. However, potential environmental and human toxicity, as well as the resistance phenomena acquired by the insects, are the main limitations for the available options. This scenario encourages the continuous search for more potent and less inconvenient chemical alternatives. In this paper, we report a potent in vitro larvicidal activity in Aedes aegypti found to a chalcone compound, previously mined by an exhaustive virtual screening by molecular docking calculations in an important protein for the larvae growth. The protein 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase enzyme (PDB ID: 6MFB) was then combined with potential ligands provided by a homemade databank, containing secondary metabolites found in plants of the brazilian Caatinga biome. Structural rationalization of the compounds with high affinity pointed the chalcone class as most promising. Subsequent in vitro tests allowed the identification of a specific molecule with very high larvicidal potency (100% of lethality at 2.5 ppm). These results can be used in future and more refined studies, to propose a larvicidal formulation for direct application and the exploration of new compounds of this chemical class.

Identification of Novel Zika Virus Inhibitors: A Screening using Thiosemicarbazones and Thiazoles Templates.

BACKGROUND: Zika virus (ZIKV) remains an important cause of congenital infection, fetal microcephaly, and Guillain-Barré syndrome in the population. In 2016, WHO declared a cluster of microcephaly cases and other neurological disorders reported as a global public health emergency in Brazil. There is still no specific treatment for Zika virus fever, only palliative care. Therefore, there is a need for new therapies against this disease. According to the literature, thiosemicarbazone, phthalimide and thiazole are privileged structures with several biological activities, including antiviral activity against various viruses. OBJECTIVE: Based on this, this work presents an antiviral screening using previously synthesized compounds derived from thiosemicarbazone, phthalimide, and thiazole as new hits active against ZIKV. METHODS: After synthesis and characterization, all compounds were submitted to Cytotoxicity by MTT and Antiviral activity against ZIKV assays. RESULTS: Compounds 63, 64, 65, and 73 exhibited major reductions in the ZIKV title from this evaluation. Compounds 63 (99.74%), 64 (99.77%), 65 (99.92%), and 73 (99.21%) showed a higher inhibition than the standard 6MMPr (98.74%) at the CC20 dose. These results revealed new chemical entities with anti-ZIKV activity. CONCLUSION: These derivatives are promising candidates for further assays. In addition, the current approach brings a new privileged scaffolding, which may drive future drug discovery for ZIKV.

The prophylactic and anti-fibrotic activity of phthalimido-thiazole derivatives in schistosomiasis mansoni.

Schistosomiasis mansoni is considered a serious public health problem. As praziquantel is the only drug recommended by the World Health Organization for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis, the development of new drugs is of great significance. In this work, we present the antischistosomal activity of a small set of phthalimido-thiazole derivatives against Schistosoma mansoni. The effects of those derivatives on the viability of larvae juveniles and adult parasites, production and development of eggs, mortality of schistosomules in vitro by counting worms, and stages of eggs of infected animals in acute and chronic phases were evaluated, resulting in the identification of new multistage antischistosomal compounds. Additionally, a study of liver fibrogenesis was released. The phthalimido-thiazole derivatives, compounds 2b-d, 2h-j, had shown activity on schistosomules, achieving 100% mortality even at 5 mg/mL, in the first 24 h. In the chronic phase of schistosomiasis infection, compound 2i promoted a reduction in the number of immature eggs, an increase in the number of non-viable parasite eggs, a reduction in the average number of eggs in the liver and intestine, decrease in the levels of hydroxyproline in the liver, and a reduction in the areas of hepatic fibrosis. This compound also promoted an increase of IL-10 and a reduction in the level of TNF-α in the liver. Accordingly, the phthalimide-thiazole scaffold is a new starting point for the development of multistage compounds that affect S. mansoni viability, egg formation, and production.

Synthesis, anticancer activity and mechanism of action of new phthalimido-1,3-thiazole derivatives.

In this work, 22 new compounds were obtained and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and eight different tumor cell lines. All compounds displayed IC50 values above 100 µM when assayed against PBMCs. The cytotoxic assays in tumor cell lines revealed that sub-series of phthalimido-bis-1,3-thiazoles (5a-f) exhibited the best anti-tumor activity profile, presenting viability values below 59 %. As a result, the IC50 value was calculated for compounds 5a-f and 4c, and compounds 5b and 5e were selected for further assays due to their best IC50s. Considering the results presented by the sub-series 5a-f, the importance of the 1,3-thiazole ring in improving the anti-tumor activity was pointed out. Together, the results highlighted the anti-tumor activity of phthalimido-bis-1,3-thiazole derivatives.

Incorporation of Nonyl 3,4-Dihydroxybenzoate Into Nanostructured Lipid Systems: Effective Alternative for Maintaining Anti-Dermatophytic and Antibiofilm Activities and Reducing Toxicity at High Concentrations.

Dermatophytosis is the most common mycosis worldwide, affecting approximately 20 to 25% of the population, regardless of gender, race, color, and age. Most antifungal agents used for the treatment of dermatophytosis belong to the azole and allylamine classes. Dermatophytes are reported to be resistant to most commercial drugs, especially microbial biofilms, in addition to their considerable toxicity. It should be emphasized the importance of looking for new molecules with reduced toxicity, as well as new targets and mechanisms of action. This work aims to incorporate nonyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate, a potent fungicide compound against planktonic cells and dermatophyte biofilms in nanostructured lipid systems (NLS), in order to reduce toxicity in high concentrations, improve its solubility and maintain its effectiveness. The compound was incorporated into NLS constituted by cholesterol, mixture of polyoxyethylene (23) lauryl ether (Brij®98) and soybean phosphatidylcholine (Epikuron® 200)], 2: 1 ratio and PBS (phosphate-buffered saline). The characterization of the incorporation was performed. Susceptibility tests were conducted according to document M38-A2 by CLSI (2008). The toxicity of the NLS compound was evaluated in HaCaT cell lines by the sulforhodamine B method and in alternative models Caenorhabditis elegans and zebrafish. Finally, its efficacy was evaluated against the mature Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes biofilms. NLS and nonyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate loaded into NLS displayed sizes ranging from 137.8 ± 1.815 to 167.9 ± 4.070 nm; the polydispersity index (PDI) varying from 0.331 ± 0.020 to 0.377 ± 0.004 and zeta potential ranging from -1.46 ± 0.157 to -4.63 ± 0.398 mV, respectively. Polarized light microscopy results confirmed the formation of NLS of the microemulsion type. Nonyl incorporated into NLS showed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, ranging from 2 to 15.6 mg/L. The toxicity tests presented cell viability higher than 80% in all tested concentrations, as well as, a significantly increased of the survival of Caenorhabditis elegans and zebrafish models. Anti-biofilm tests proved the efficacy of the incorporation. These findings contribute significantly to the search for new antifungals and allow the systemic administration of the compound, since the incorporation can increase the solubility of non-polar compounds, improve bioavailability, effectiveness and reduce toxicity.

Tannic acid as a precipitating agent of human plasma proteins.

The search for plasma proteins precipitation methods has been increasing due to the plasma protein therapeutic needs in world-wide. Thus, this work evaluates the tannic acid (TA) ability to precipitate proteins from human plasma. In this study, TA-plasma protein complexes were studied at different pH conditions, tannin/plasma ratio and reaction mixing time. The complexes formed from combinations of TA and plasma proteins were analyzed by gel electrophoresis, protein quantification, particle size, charge, mass spectrometry, microscopic image, and circular dichroism. It was possible to verify the precipitate formation in all tested pH values, with high precipitation at pH 5. The native PAGE analysis showed three mainly bands corresponding independent of the pHs used. It was possible to observe a gradual growing of precipitate protein in the first precipitation process (P1) when increased the TA/plasma ratio. 15 min of incubation was enough to precipitate 72.3% of proteins. Spectroscopic analyzes showed albumin signals and the electron microscopy analysis of IgG-TA confirmed the compact form of a precipitate. According to CD, formation of the IgG-TA complexes does not cause a major structural change of the protein. From the results obtained, it was possible to establish some parameters for plasma proteins precipitation using TA.

Density and diversity of filamentous fungi in the water and sediment of Araçá bay in São Sebastião, São Paulo, Brazil / Densidade e diversidade de fungos filamentosos na água e sedimento da Baía do Araçá, São Sebastião (SP), Brasil

Abstract Araçá Bay, located in the city of São Sebastião, São Paulo, Brazil, is a protected area of substantial complexity. It represents the last remaining mangrove swamp preserve between the cities of Bertioga and Ubatuba on the northern coast of São Paulo State. This mangrove swamp has specific physical and chemical properties, and it shelters a wide variety of life, including fungi. These microorganisms are present in a variety of species with different morphophysiological features, and they have the ability to produce enzymes of biotechnological importance. The goal of this study was to quantify, isolate, and identify filamentous fungi in water and sediment samples from the Araçá Bay mangrove swamp in São Sebastião. Two samplings were performed in the summer and two were performed in the winter. The samples were collected from intertidal zones, and dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, salinity, and pH were measured in situ. The spread plate technique was used to inoculate the samples collected on plates with a potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. A total of 208 colonies (68 from water samples and 140 from sediment samples) were isolated, and they were identified based on their morphological characteristics. Filamentous fungus density was higher in the sediment than in the water, and the samplings performed in the winter revealed a higher density than those performed in the summer. Though some of the environmental parameters were not ideal for fungal development, a high quantity of growth was nevertheless observed. When the isolated colonies were analyzed, the greatest diversity and species richness were found in the summer samples. The genera identified in all of the samples were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Fusarium. The pathogenic species found from these genera were Aspergillus fumigatus, A. terreus, Penicillium citrinum, and P. chrysogenum. These species are also able to produce enzymes that offer a variety of applications. The fungal community described herein represents the diversity found in this mangrove swamp during the period studied. Many of the fungus species found are pathogenic and may be useful due to their ability to produce specific enzymes applicable in the biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries.

Resumo A Baía do Araçá, localizada no município de São Sebastião (SP), é uma região protegida, de grande complexidade, mantendo o último remanescente preservado de manguezal entre Bertioga e Ubatuba, litoral Norte do Estado de São Paulo. Manguezal caracteriza-se com propriedades físico-químicas específicas e abriga grande diversidade de seres vivos, entre eles os fungos. Estes microrganismos apresentam grande variedade de espécies e diferentes características morfofisiológicas com capacidade de produzir algumas enzimas de importância biotecnológica. Este trabalho teve como objetivo quantificar, isolar e identificar fungos filamentosos em amostras de água e de sedimento do manguezal da Baía do Araçá, São Sebastião, (SP). Foram realizadas 2 coletas no verão e 2 no inverno na região entremarés, medidos "in situ" os parâmetros oxigênio dissolvido (OD), temperatura, salinidade e pH. Utilizou-se a Técnica "Spread Plate" para inocular os materiais coletados, em placas com meio Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Foram isoladas 208 colônias (68 das amostras de água e 140 das amostras de sedimento) e identificadas pelas características morfofisiológicas. As densidades de fungos filamentosos foram maiores no sedimento em relação à água e nas coletas realizadas no inverno demonstraram maiores densidades do que no verão. Apesar de alguns parâmetros ambientais não se apresentarem ideais para o desenvolvimento dos fungos, observou-se alta quantidade de crescimento nas amostragens. Analisando as colônias isoladas, a maior diversidade e riqueza foram observadas na amostragem coletado no verão. Foram observados os gêneros Aspergillus sp, Penicillium sp, Cladosporium sp e Fusarium sp em todas as amostragens, dos quais as espécies Aspergillus fumigatus, A. terreus, Penicillium citrinum e P. chrysogenum identificados neste trabalho são considerados patogênicos mas também são espécies capazes de produzir enzimas aplicáveis em diversas atividades. A comunidade fúngica descrita apresenta a diversidade encontrada neste manguezal em relação à variedade ambiental no período estudado, sendo que muitos apresentam patogenicidade e podem ser uteis pela sua capacidade de produzir enzimas específicas aplicáveis nos estudos biotecnológicos e farmacêuticos.

Comparison of bacterial densities and resistance in different beach compartments: should water be our main concern? / Comparação de densidade e resistência bacterianas em diferentes compartimentos de praia: a água deve ser nossa principal preocupação?

Coastal regions are very important, since they provide food, enable economic and leisure activities however, the increase in urbanization of coastal areas are accompanied by great volumes of organic effluent, which is sometimes discharged in natura in water bodies, increasing the risk of the presence of pathogenic resistant bacteria in marine environments. In fact, recent studies showed higher bacterial densities in sediments than in water, since its present more favorable conditions for bacterial survivor (e.g. sun protection and predation). In addition, bivalves tend to accumulate suspended bacteria from the water, since they are filter feeding organisms. Thus, the present study evaluated densities and resistance to antibiotics of Enterococcus sp., Escherichia coli and Aeromonas sp. in water, sediment and mussels samples. Samples were collected at Praia dos Sonhos (Itanhaém) and Ubuqueçaba Island (Santos). Bacterial densities were determined by Membrane Filter Technique and the isolated strains were submitted to antibiotic sensibility test. Bacterial densities were lower in water and higher in sediments and mussels samples. Bacterial strains from Santos presented higher frequencies of resistance than those isolated from Itanhaém (less impacted area). Aeromonas strains were more resistant to Cefalotin and Cefuroxin, Enterococcus to Gentamicin and Streptomicin, and E. coli to Vancomicin and Eritromicin. The results obtained point to the need to establish public policies, laws and monitoring programs about the microbiological quality of mollusks and sediments, including the use of Enterococcus sp as microbiological indicator as well as about the resistance of the bacteria present in these environments

As regiões costeiras são muito importantes, uma vez que proporcionam alimentos, permitem atividades econômicas e de lazer, no entanto, o aumento da urbanização das áreas costeiras é acompanhado por grandes volumes de efluentes orgânicos, que às vezes são descarregados in natura em corpos d'água, aumentando o risco da presença de bactérias patogênicas e resistentes em ambientes marinhos. De fato, estudos recentes mostraram maiores densidades bacterianas nos sedimentos do que na água, pois apresentam condições mais favoráveis para a sobrevivência bacteriana (e.g. proteção solar e de predação). Além disso, os bivalves tendem a acumular bactérias suspensas da água, pois são organismos que alimentam-se por filtração. Assim, o presente estudo avaliou densidades e resistência a antibióticos de Enterococcus sp., Escherichia coli e Aeromonas sp. em amostras de água, sedimentos e mexilhões. As amostras foram coletadas na Praia dos Sonhos (Itanhaém) e na Ilha Ubuqueçaba (Santos). As densidades bacterianas foram determinadas pela técnica de filtro de membrana e as cepas isoladas foram submetidas ao teste de sensibilidade aos antibióticos. As densidades bacterianas foram menores na água e maiores nas amostras de sedimentos e mexilhões. As cepas bacterianas de Santos apresentaram maiores frequências de resistência do que as isoladas de Itanhaém (área menos impactada). As cepas de Aeromonas foram mais reistentes à Cefalotina e Cefuroxime, Enterococcus à Gentamicina e Estreptomicina, e E. coli à Vancomicina e Eritromicina. Os resultados obtidos apontam para a necessidade de estabelecer políticas públicas, leis e programas de monitoramento relativos à qualidade microbiológica de moluscos e sedimentos, incluindo o uso de Enterococcus sp. como indicador microbiológico, bem como sobre a resistência das bactérias presentes nesses ambientes

Diversity and Distribution of Heavy Metal-Resistant Bacteria in Polluted Sediments of the Araça Bay, São Sebastião (SP), and the Relationship Between Heavy Metals and Organic Matter Concentrations.

Heavy metals influence the population size, diversity, and metabolic activity of bacteria. In turn, bacteria can develop heavy metal resistance mechanisms, and this can be used in bioremediation of contaminated areas. The purpose of the present study was to understand how heavy metals concentration influence on diversity and distribution of heavy metal-resistant bacteria in Araça Bay, São Sebastião, on the São Paulo coast of Brazil. The hypothesis is that activities that contribute for heavy metal disposal and the increase of metals concentrations in environment can influence in density, diversity, and distribution of heavy metal-resistant bacteria. Only 12 % of the isolated bacteria were sensitive to all of the metals tested. We observed that the highest percentage of resistant strains were in areas closest to the São Sebastião channel, where port activity occurs and have bigger heavy metals concentrations. Bacterial isolated were most resistant to Cr, followed by Zn, Cd, and Cu. Few strains resisted to Cd levels greater than 200 mg L(-1). In respect to Cr, 36 % of the strains were able to grow in the presence of as much as 3200 mg L(-1). Few strains were able to grow at concentrations of Zn and Cu as high as 1600 mg L(-1), and none grew at the highest concentration of 3200 mg L(-1). Bacillus sp. was most frequently isolated and may be the dominant genus in heavy metal-polluted areas. Staphylococcus sp., Planococcus maritimus, and Vibrio aginolyticus were also isolated, suggesting their potential in bioremediation of contaminated sites.

Oropharyngeal swallowing in chronic renal failure.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the oropharyngeal swallowing profile of patients with chronic renal failure. METHODS: A cross-sectional clinical study involving 20 adults diagnosed with chronic renal failure in hospital stay was conducted. The evaluation of swallowing was performed by videofluoroscopy, and characterization of findings was based on effectiveness and safety parameters. Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) was also applied. RESULTS: On videofluoroscopy, 16 patients presented changes in oral and pharyngeal patterns, three individuals presented impairment at the pharyngeal phase, and only one individual presented changes only at the oral phase of swallowing. Furthermore, videofluoroscopy showed penetration and tracheal aspiration in 30% of the sample. Before the videofluoroscopy, four individuals (20%) were at level 5 of FOIS scale, whereas 16 individuals (80%) were at level 7. After adjustments of the oral diet consistency because of safety and swallowing effectiveness, FOIS classification was six individuals at level 1, seven at level 4, four at level 5, and three at level 6. CONCLUSION: The characterization of oropharyngeal swallowing profile in chronic renal patients showed abnormalities at oral and pharyngeal phase, including penetration and tracheal aspiration, which requires oral intake changes.

Deglutição orofaríngea na insuficiência renal crônica / Oropharyngeal swallowing in chronic renal failure

RESUMO Objetivo: Caracterizar o perfil de deglutição orofaríngea em indivíduos com insuficiência renal crônica (IRC). Métodos: Estudo clínico transversal do qual participaram 20 indivíduos adultos com diagnóstico médico de IRC, durante o período de internação hospitalar. A avaliação objetiva da deglutição foi realizada por videofluoroscopia de deglutição (VFD), sendo a caracterização e classificação dos achados baseada em parâmetros de eficácia e segurança. Além disso, foi aplicada a Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Resultados: A análise da VFD mostrou que 16indivíduos apresentaram alteração de fase oral e faríngea, três indivíduos apresentaram alterações somente de fase faríngea e um indivíduo apresentou alterações exclusivas de fase oral da deglutição. Além disso, por meio da VFD foi constatada penetração e aspiração laringotraqueal em 30% dos indivíduos. Previamente à realização da VFD, foi verificado que quatro indivíduos (20%) encontravam-se no nível 5 da FOIS, enquanto 16 indivíduos (80%) encontravam-se no nível 7. Após as adequações de alteração da consistência da dieta via oral devido aos prejuízos de segurança e à eficiência da deglutição, a classificação da FOIS passou a representar 6 indivíduos no nível 1, 7 no nível 4, 4 no nível 5 e 3 no nível 6. Conclusão: A caracterização do perfil de deglutição orofaríngea em indivíduos com IRC mostrou alterações de fase oral e faríngea, inclusive com penetração e aspiração laringotraqueal, com necessidade de mudanças no nível de ingestão oral.

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize the oropharyngeal swallowing profile of patients with chronic renal failure. Methods: A cross-sectional clinical study involving 20 adults diagnosed with chronic renal failure in hospital stay was conducted. The evaluation of swallowing was performed by videofluoroscopy, and characterization of findings was based on effectiveness and safety parameters. Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) was also applied. Results: On videofluoroscopy, 16 patients presented changes in oral and pharyngeal patterns, three individuals presented impairment at the pharyngeal phase, and only one individual presented changes only at the oral phase of swallowing. Furthermore, videofluoroscopy showed penetration and tracheal aspiration in 30% of the sample. Before the videofluoroscopy, four individuals (20%) were at level 5 of FOIS scale, whereas 16 individuals (80%) were at level 7. After adjustments of the oral diet consistency because of safety and swallowing effectiveness, FOIS classification was six individuals at level 1, seven at level 4, four at level 5, and three at level 6. Conclusion: The characterization of oropharyngeal swallowing profile in chronic renal patients showed abnormalities at oral and pharyngeal phase, including penetration and tracheal aspiration, which requires oral intake changes.

Analyses of melatonin, cytokines, and sleep in chronic renal failure.

PURPOSE: Inflammation and oxidative stress are involved in the process of chronic renal failure (CRF). CRF patients show indication of sleep disturbances, and the melatonin rhythm, which modulates sleep, is abnormal in these patients; however, it is still unclear whether inflammation could be related to the blockage of melatonin production and sleep disturbances in this population. The aim of this study was to characterize and correlate sleep, the melatonin rhythm, and the levels of the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-6 in patients with CRF and controls. METHODS: Sleep was evaluated by the "Sleep Quality Index Pittsburgh" (PSQI) questionnaire, and melatonin and cytokine contents in saliva and blood samples, respectively, were analyzed by ELISA. RESULTS: The CRF group scored higher on the global PSQI, which indicates a lower sleep quality and a higher prevalence of sleep disorders, than the control group. The CRF individuals also showed lower melatonin content than the control groups, both during the day and at night, and lacked rhythmicity in melatonin production. The CRF group also showed higher contents of TNF and IL-6 than the control group and a negative correlation between TNF and melatonin content. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the sleep disorders observed in the CRF group were probably related to the low production of melatonin observed in this population. The high level of TNF, as previously demonstrated in other pathologies, is probably involved in this blockage of melatonin production in CRF.

Heavy metals and TPH effects on microbial abundance and diversity in two estuarine areas of the southern-central coast of São Paulo State, Brazil.

Coastal areas may be impacted by human and industrial activities, including contamination by wastewater, heavy metals and hydrocarbons. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of hydrocarbons (TPH) and metals on the microbiota composition and abundance in two estuarine systems in the coast of São Paulo: the Santos (SE) and Itanhaém (IE) estuaries. The SE was found to be chronically contaminated by heavy metals and highly contaminated by hydrocarbons. This finding was correlated with the increased density of cyanobacteria in sediments and suggests the possible use of cyanobacteria for bioremediation. These contaminants influence the density and composition of estuarine microbiota that respond to stress caused by human activity. The results are troubling because quantitative and qualitative changes in the microbiota of estuarine sediments may alter microbiological processes such as decomposition of organic matter. Moreover, this pollution can result in damage to the environment, biota and human health.

Densities and antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from marine waters and beach sands.

Bacterial resistance is a rising problem all over the world. Many studies have showed that beach sands can contain higher concentration of microorganisms and represent a risk to public health. This paper aims to evaluate the densities and resistance to antimicrobials of Escherichia coli strains, isolated from seawater and samples. The hypothesis is that microorganisms show higher densities in contaminated beach sands and more antimicrobial resistance than the water column. Density, distribution, and antimicrobial resistance of bacteria E. coli were evaluate in seawater and sands from two recreational beaches with different levels of pollution. At the beach with higher degree of pollution (Gonzaguinha), water samples presented the highest densities of E. coli; however, higher frequency of resistant strains was observe in wet sand (71.9 %). Resistance to a larger number of antimicrobial groups was observe in water (betalactamics, aminoglycosides, macrolides, rifampicins, and tetracyclines) and sand (betagalactamics and aminoglycosids). In water samples, highest frequencies of resistance were obtain against ampicilin (22.5 %), streptomycin (15.0 %), and rifampicin (15.0 %), while in sand, the highest frequencies were observe in relation to ampicilin (36.25 %) and streptomycin (23.52 %). At the less polluted beach, Ilha Porchat, highest densities of E. coli and higher frequency of resistance were obtain in wet and dry sand (53.7 and 53.8 %, respectively) compared to water (50 %). Antimicrobial resistance in strains isolated from water and sand only occurred against betalactamics (ampicilin and amoxicilin plus clavulanic acid). The frequency and variability of bacterial resistance to antimicrobials in marine recreational waters and sands were related to the degree of fecal contamination in this environment. These results show that water and sands from beaches with a high index of fecal contamination of human origin may be potential sources of contamination by pathogens and contribute to the dissemination of bacterial resistance.

Abordagem neonatal nas infecções congênitas ? toxoplasmose e sífilis / The approach to neonatal congenital infections ? toxoplasmosis and syphilis

As infecções que acometem o binômio mãe-filho durante a gestação constituem grande preocupação para obstetras e pediatras, por sua frequência e dificuldade no diagnóstico etiológico, importante para o tratamento precoce. A maioria dos recém-nascidos com infecções congênitas é assintomática, assinalando a importância da triagem laboratorial para doenças transmissíveis durante o ciclo gravídico-puerperal da mulher. Este artigo de revisão visa a apresentar recomendações em relação às infecções congênitas por Treponema pallidume Toxoplasma gondii. A sífilis é uma das doenças com maiores taxas de transmissão vertical e é um problema de saúde pública ainda com controle insuficiente no país. O diagnóstico da infecção materna, realizado com VDRL e confirmado com um teste treponêmico, indica tratamento imediato na gestante e em seu parceiro. A infecção congênita é prevenível por meio do tratamento materno adequado com penicilina benzatina, o que representa ótimo custo-benefício. A toxoplasmose é parasitose de distribuição mundial, com alta prevalência em nosso meio. O rastreamento sorológico durante o pré-natal permite a detecção das gestantes suscetíveis que devem ser priorizadas nas ações educativas e monitoradas para identificar-se possível soroconversão. O tratamento precoce da gestante com infecção aguda pode reduzir a transmissão materno-fetal ou o comprometimento do feto, melhorando o prognóstico do recém-nascido infectado. É possível evitar a sífilis e a toxoplasmose congênita por meio do pré-natal de qualidade, que deve ser disponível e acessível. Ações preventivas e diagnósticas devem ser intensificadas no acompanhamento da gestante, principalmente nas unidades básicas de saúde (UBS), de forma a gerar resultados com impacto populacional.

The infections that affect the binomial mother-son during pregnancy are of great concern to obstetricians and pediatricians because of its frequency and difficulty in reaching an etiological diagnosis that is important for early treatment. Most newborns with congenital infection are asymptomatic; this shows the importance of laboratory screening for diseases that are transmitted during the pregnancy-puerperal cycle of women. This review aims to provide recommendations with regard to congenital infection by Treponema pallidum and Toxoplasma gondii. Syphilis is one of the diseases with the highest rates of mother-to-child transmission and is a public health problem still with insufficient control in the country. The diagnosis of maternal infection, performed with VDRL and confirmed with a treponemic test, indicates immediate treatment in pregnant women and their partners. The congenital infection is preventable through adequate maternal treatment with benzathine penicillin, which presents great costbenefitvalue. Toxoplasmosis is a parasitosis of worldwide distribution, with high prevalence in our environment. The serological screening during the prenatal period allows the detection of susceptible pregnant women who should be prioritized in educational activities and monitored for possible seroconversion. The early treatment of pregnant women with acute infection can reduce the maternal-fetal transmission or fetal impairment improving the prognosis of infected newborns. Syphilis and congenital toxoplasmosis can be avoided with a high quality prenatal, whichshould be available and accessible. Preventive and diagnostic actions should be intensified in the monitoring of pregnant women, especially in the basic health units (UBS), to generate population impacting results.