Transcriptional response to an alternative diet on liver, muscle, and rumen of beef cattle.

Feed cost represents a major economic determinant within cattle production, amounting to an estimated 75% of the total variable costs. Consequently, comprehensive approaches such as optimizing feed utilization through alternative feed sources, alongside the selection of feed-efficient animals, are of great significance. Here, we investigate the effect of two diets, traditional corn-grain fed and alternative by-product based, on 14 phenotypes related to feed, methane emission and production efficiency and on multi-tissue transcriptomics data from liver, muscle, and rumen wall, derived from 52 Nellore bulls, 26 on each diet. To this end, diets were contrasted at the level of phenotype, gene expression, and gene-phenotype network connectivity. As regards the phenotypic level, at a P value < 0.05, significant differences were found in favour of the alternative diet for average daily weight gain at finishing, dry matter intake at finishing, methane emission, carcass yield and subcutaneous fat thickness at the rib-eye muscle area. In terms of the transcriptional level of the 14,776 genes expressed across the examined tissues, we found 487, 484, and 499 genes differentially expressed due to diet in liver, muscle, and rumen, respectively (P value < 0.01). To explore differentially connected phenotypes across both diet-based networks, we focused on the phenotypes with the largest change in average number of connections within diets and tissues, namely methane emission and carcass yield, highlighting, in particular, gene expression changes involving SREBF2, and revealing the largest differential connectivity in rumen and muscle, respectively. Similarly, from examination of differentially connected genes across diets, the top-ranked most differentially connected regulators within each tissue were MEOX1, PTTG1, and BASP1 in liver, muscle, and rumen, respectively. Changes in gene co-expression patterns suggest activation or suppression of specific biological processes and pathways in response to dietary interventions, consequently impacting the phenotype. The identification of genes that respond differently to diets and their associated phenotypic effects serves as a crucial stepping stone for further investigations, aiming to build upon our discoveries. Ultimately, such advancements hold the promise of improving animal welfare, productivity, and sustainability in livestock farming.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis Diagnosis: Advances and Challenges.

Objective: To understand how congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) diagnosis has evolved over the years, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the kind of analysis that has been employed for CT diagnosis. Methods: PubMed and Lilacs databases were used in order to access the kind of analysis that has been employed for CT diagnosis in several samples. Our search combined the following combining terms: "congenital toxoplasmosis" or "gestational toxoplasmosis" and "diagnosis" and "blood," "serum," "amniotic fluid," "placenta," or "colostrum." We extracted data on true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative to generate pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Random-effects models using MetaDTA were used for analysis. Results: Sixty-five articles were included in the study aiming for comparisons (75.4%), diagnosis performance (52.3%), diagnosis improvement (32.3%), or to distinguish acute/chronic infection phases (36.9%). Amniotic fluid (AF) and placenta were used in 36.9% and 10.8% of articles, respectively, targeting parasites and/or T. gondii DNA. Blood was used in 86% of articles for enzymatic assays. Colostrum was used in one article to search for antibodies. In meta-analysis, PCR in AF showed the best performance for CT diagnosis based on the highest summary sensitivity (85.1%) and specificity (99.7%) added to lower magnitude heterogeneity. Conclusion: Most of the assays being researched to diagnose CT are basically the same traditional approaches available for clinical purposes. The range in diagnostic performance and the challenges imposed by CT diagnosis indicate the need to better explore pregnancy samples in search of new possibilities for diagnostic tools. Exploring immunological markers and using bioinformatics tools and T. gondii recombinant antigens should address the research needed for a new generation of diagnostic tools to face these challenges.

Individual and environmental parameters in children with and without developmental coordination disorder: associations with physical activity and body mass index.

Introduction: Physical Activity (PA) is a complex behavior, and the relevance of other factors such as BMI, SES and children's behavior at school and home still lacks investigation for children, especially those at risk or with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). The objective of this study was to examine whether socioeconomic status (SES), school's spaces for children's movement, active play, screen time, motor skill proficiency, perceived motor competence, and engagement in the physical education lessons were associated with PA and BMI in children with typical development (TD), at risk of DCD (r-DCD), and with DCD. Methods: Children (N = 352; 4-10-year-old) from six public schools in a major urban city, in southern of Brazil, were assessed regarding motor skill proficiency (locomotor and ball skills), perceived motor competence, and weight status. PA and engagement in the lesson were assessed using pedometers and a behavior checklist of motor experience of success. Parents recorded the daily time that children spent on screen and in active play. Results: The hierarchical multivariate linear regressions showed that age, sex, SES, Schools with more favorable space for children's movement, locomotor and ball skills, and successful engagement, were associated with PA for children with TD. Age, screen time, locomotor, and successful engagement were associated with BMI. For children at r-DCD, age, sex, SES, with more favorable space for children's movement, and locomotor were associated with PA. Age, active play and screen time were associated with BMI. For children with DCD, sex, SES, Schools with more favorable space for children's movement, screen time, and successful engagement were associated with PA. Age, sex, active play, and screen time were associated with BMI. Conclusion: Different factors were associated with PA and BMI for children with different levels of motor impairment (r-DCD and DCD) and children with TD.

Enhancing Antioxidant Retention through Varied Wall Material Combinations in Grape Spray Drying and Storage.

The encapsulation of bioactive compounds, which spans phytochemicals, vitamins, antioxidants, and other precious substances, has risen to prominence as a crucial area of interest spanning various domains, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This investigation delved into the efficacy of distinct wall materials-whey protein isolate, high methoxy pectin, and gum arabic-when employed individually or in combination to encapsulate and preserve phenolic compounds and antioxidants during storage. The encapsulation process involved spray-drying bioactive compounds extracted from grapes. Over a span of 120 days, the stability of these encapsulated compounds was meticulously evaluated, encompassing assessments via different antioxidant capacity assays, phenolic content analyses, and high-performance liquid chromatography measurements. The modeling of retention kinetics during storage facilitated the comprehension of the release mechanisms. Notably, the findings underscore the pivotal role of wall materials in preserving these bioactive compounds, with each material or combination of materials exhibiting varying degrees of protective capacity. Remarkably, the synergistic blend of whey protein, pectin, and gum arabic showcased the utmost retention of bioactive compounds over this study's period. The amassed data distinctly show that an amalgamation of wall materials can indeed considerably enhance the stability of encapsulated bioactive compounds, presenting promising applications within the realms of both the food and pharmaceutical industries.

c-Si PV module recycling: Analysis of the use of a mechanical pre-treatment to reduce the environmental impact of thermal treatment and enhance materials recovery.

The current increase in the use of photovoltaic (PV) energy demands the search for solutions to recycle end-of-life modules. This study evaluated the use of a mechanical pre-treatment in the thermal recycling of c-Si crystalline PV modules, which were submitted to recycling routes to separate and concentrate the materials of interest. The first route was constituted by only thermal treatment, and the second route was constituted by a mechanical pre-treatment to remove the polymers from the backsheet, and subsequent thermal treatment. The exclusively thermal route was performed at 500°C, varying dwell times between 30 and 120 minutes in the furnace. In this route, the best results were obtained in 90 minutes, with a maximum degradation of 68% of the polymeric mass. In route 2, a micro-grinder rotary tool was used to remove the polymers from the backsheet and, subsequently, thermal treatment performed at 500°C, with dwell times in the furnace ranging between 5 and 30 minutes. The mechanical pre-treatment removed about 10.32 ± 0.92% of the mass of the laminate PV module. By this route, only 20 minutes of thermal treatment were needed for the total decomposition of the polymers, that is, a reduction of 78% in the oven time. With route 2, it was possible to obtain a concentrate with 30 times more silver than the PV laminate and 40 times more than a high-concentration ore. Furthermore, with route 2 it was possible to reduce the environmental impact of heat treatment and energy consumption.

Maternal Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Autism Spectrum Etiology and Its Relation to the Gut Microbiota: What Do We Know?

Maternal food habits and gut microbiota composition have potential effects on fetal neurodevelopment, impacting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our research aims to outline the relationship that ingestion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and the composition of maternal gut microbiota have with the possible development of ASD in offspring. We suggest that genetic factors could be related to the different conversions between unsaturated fatty acids according to sex and, mainly, the impact of the pregnancy diet on the higher or lower risk of neurological impairments. The proportion of the phyla Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes is high with an increased consumption of linoleic acid (LA, n-6 PUFA), which is associated with maternal intestinal dysbiosis and consequently starts the inflammatory process, harming myelinization. In contrast, the consumption of α-linolenic acid (ALA, n-3 PUFA) tends to re-establish the balance of the maternal microbiota with anti-inflammatory action. Moreover, human observational studies showed a strong correlation between the consumption of n-3 PUFA, mainly above 340 g of fish per week, with beneficial effects on infant neurodevelopment. Therefore, we suggest that the proper intake of foods rich in n-3 PUFAs and their supplementation during pregnancy until lactation has an impact on reducing the development of ASD. Controlled studies with n-3 PUFA supplementation are still necessary to verify the ideal dose and the best form of administration.

Effectiveness of the peripherally inserted central catheter for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a systematic review protocol

OBJECTIVE: to assess the effectiveness and safety of the peripherally inserted central catheter for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. METHOD: this review will follow the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, and the search steps will be presented through the flow diagram. The search strategy aims to locate both published and unpublished studies. No time or language restrictions will be applied. The review will consider experimental and observational studies that include adult and pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Patients using peripherally inserted central catheters will be compared with those using other central catheters.

Temporomandibular disorders and the use of traditional and laser acupuncture: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate current studies to establish and compare the efficacy of traditional and laser acupuncture in reducing the signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched. Clinical, controlled, and randomized trials written in English and having used traditional or laser acupuncture as therapy for TMD and RDC/TMD or DC/TMD as a diagnostic criterion for TMD were included. RESULTS: Six studies that evaluated the intensity of pain and the level of mouth opening of the patients submitted to acupuncture were selected, and all showed improvement. However, similar results were also observed in the groups treated with occlusal splint and placebo acupuncture. Only one study evaluated laser acupuncture and showed a higher proportion of patients with remission of symptoms in the experimental group. CONCLUSION: The traditional acupuncture seems to relieve the signs and symptoms of TMD, as well as laser acupuncture when associated with occlusal splint. However, more rigorous and high-quality clinical trials are needed.

Rumen and fecal microbiomes are related to diet and production traits in Bos indicus beef cattle.

Background: Ruminants harbor a complex microbial community within their gastrointestinal tract, which plays major roles in their health and physiology. Brazil is one of the largest producers of beef in the world and more than 90% of the beef cattle herds are composed of pure and crossbred Nelore (Bos indicus). Despite its importance to the Brazilian economy and human feeding, few studies have characterized the Nelore microbiome. Therefore, using shotgun metagenomics, we investigated the impact of diet on the composition and functionality of the Nelore microbiome, and explored the associations between specific microbial taxa and their functionality with feed efficiency and methane emission. Results: The ruminal microbiome exhibited significantly higher microbial diversity, distinctive taxonomic profile and variations in microbial functionality compared to the fecal microbiome, highlighting the distinct contributions of the microbiomes of these environments. Animals subjected to different dietary treatments exhibited significant differences in their microbiomes' archaeal diversity and in the abundance of 89 genera, as well as in the functions associated with the metabolism of components of each diet. Moreover, depending on the diet, feed-efficient animals and low methane emitters displayed higher microbial diversity in their fecal microbiome. Multiple genera were associated with an increase or decrease of the phenotypes. Upon analyzing the functions attributed to these taxa, we observed significant differences on the ruminal taxa associated with feed efficient and inefficient cattle. The ruminal taxa that characterized feed efficient cattle stood out for having significantly more functions related to carbohydrate metabolism, such as monosaccharides, di-/oligosaccharides and amino acids. The taxa associated with methane emission had functions associated with methanogenesis and the production of substrates that may influence methane production, such as hydrogen and formate. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the significant role of diet in shaping Nelore microbiomes and how its composition and functionality may affect production traits such as feed efficiency and methane emission. These insights provide valuable support for the implementation of novel feeding and biotechnological strategies.

Cobertura vacinal da Covid-19 e seu impacto na mortalidade em um estado do Nordeste brasileiro / Covid-19 vaccination coverage and its impact on mortality in a state in the Brazilian Northeast

A pandemia da COVID-19 trouxe consigo inúmeros desafios no que diz respeito à descoberta de fatores condicionantes para agravamento da doença e suas formas de tratamento, como também a busca pelo rápido desenvolvimento de imunizantes seguros e eficazes no combate ao vírus, para contribuírem com a redução dos casos de mortalidade no Brasil. O estudo objetiva avaliar a cobertura vacinal da COVID-19 e sua associação com o indicador de mortalidade na população adolescente, adulta e idosa no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo ecológico, quantitativo, sobre a população vacinada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, mediante dados disponibilizados pelos sistemas de informação em saúde e-SUS Vigilância Epidemiológica (e-SUS-VE), no período de janeiro de 2021 a março de 2022. Os dados foram analisados por meio do software Microsoft Excel, utilizado para agrupamento dos dados, bem como foi usado o software JoinPoint usado na análise estatística. A meta de cobertura vacinal estabelecida pelo PNI é de ao menos 90% da população-alvo vacinada. Os resultados revelaram que a média estadual de cobertura vacinal no período estudado foi de 81,8%. As seguintes regiões tiveram destaque em sua cobertura vacinal: Alto Oeste - VI e Seridó - IV, com 91% e 83%, respectivamente. A região com maior índice de casos, durante o período do estudo, foi a Região do Seridó - IV com 23,9%, seguida da VI região do Alto Oeste de saúde com 19,1%. Quanto ao número de óbitos, as regiões Metropolitana VII e do Vale do Açu VIII, tiveram os números mais expressivos, com 1,8% e 1,6%, respectivamente. Os resultados encontrados evidenciaram que, quanto menor a cobertura vacinal, maior a incidência de óbitos, excetuando-se a região metropolitana (Regional VII), que mesmo apresentando o terceiro maior percentual de cobertura vacinal dentre as oito regionais, registrou o maior percentual de óbitos. Portanto, considerando a maioria dos achados, pode-se afirmar que há relação entre a cobertura vacinal e o número de casos e de óbitos por COVID-19 entre as regiões de saúde do estado do Rio Grande do Norte (RN). Conclui-se que no período analisado o Rio Grande do Norte teve uma cobertura abaixo da média nacional desejada de 90%, entretanto, pode-se perceber um impacto positivo na redução da mortalidade no mesmo período estudado (AU).

The pandemic of COVID-19 brought with it numerous challenges regarding the discovery of conditioning factors for the worsening of the disease and its forms of treatment, as well as the search for the rapid development of safe and effective immunizers to combat the virus, to contribute to the reduction of mortality cases in Brazil. The study aims to evaluate the vaccination coverage of COVID-19 and its association with the mortality indicator in the adolescent, adult and elderly population in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. This is an ecological, quantitative study on the vaccinated population in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, through data made available by the health information systems e-SUS Epidemiological Surveillance (e-SUS-VE), in the period from January 2021 to March 2022. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel software, used for data grouping, as well as JoinPoint software used for statistical analysis. The vaccination coverage goal set by the PNI is at least 90% of the target population vaccinated. The results revealed that the statewide average vaccination coverage in the period studied was 81.8%. The following regions had outstanding vaccination coverage: Alto Oeste - VI and Seridó - IV, with 91% and 83%, respectively. The region with the highest rate of cases during the study period was the Seridó - IV region, with 23.9%, followed by the Alto Oeste health region VI, with 19.1%. As for the number of deaths, the Metropolitan VII and Vale do Açu VIII regions had the most expressive numbers, with 1.8% and 1.6%, respectively. The results found showed that the lower the vaccination coverage, the higher the incidence of deaths, except for the metropolitan region (Regional VII), which even presenting the third highest percentage of vaccination coverage among the eight regions, recorded the highest percentage of deaths. Therefore, considering most of the findings, it can be said that there is a relationship between vaccination coverage and the number of cases and deaths from COVID-19 among the health regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN). It is concluded that in the period analyzed Rio Grande do Norte had a coverage below the national average of 90%, however, a positive impact on the reduction of mortality in the same period studied can be seen (AU).

Tratamento de má oclusão de Classe II por meio de distalização sequencial posterior com alinhadores ortodônticos ClearCorrect / Treatment of Class II malocclusion through upper distalization with ClearCorrect aligners

Resumo A segunda mais prevalente má oclusão de Angle na população é a de Classe II. Dentre as abordagens de tratamento consideradas pelos profissionais, está a distalização dos dentes posteriores superiores ou exodontias. A distalização, dependendo do nível de complexidade do caso, pode ser desafiadora e necessitar de mecânicas auxiliares para realizar movimentos translacionais e não somente de inclinação coronária. A escolha da abordagem para esses tratamentos depende diretamente da colaboração do paciente, severidade da má oclusão, caracterização da Classe II, idade do paciente e habilidade técnica do profissional responsável. Com o aumento da procura por tratamentos ortodônticos mais estéticos, os alinhadores ortodônticos têm sido frequentemente uma alternativa aos pacientes. Dependendo da severidade da má oclusão, pode-se associar aos auxiliares comumente utilizados na Ortodontia convencional fixa. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar a resolução de uma má oclusão de Classe II, divisão 1, com impactação do canino superior direito e desvio de linha média superior para a direita tratada com alinhadores ortodônticos ClearCorrect. (AU)

Abstract The second more prevalent Angle's malocclusion on the population is Class II. Among the continuously considered treatment approaches by clinicians, is the distalization of upper teeth or extractions. The distalizations, depending on the case's complexity, can be challenging and need auxiliary mechanics to perform translation movements and not just crown tipping. The choose of the appliance for these treatments relies directly on the option/collaboration of the patient, malocclusion severeness, patient's age, and technical ability of the main professional taking care of the case. With the crescent search for more aesthetic orthodontic treatments, the clear aligners have been frequently looked for by the patients as an alternative and, regularly related to auxiliaries commonly associated to the conventional fixed appliances. Regarding this context, the objective of this study is to present the case report of a patient with Class II, division 1, upper midline deviation to the right and unerupted upper right canine through the ClearCorrect aligners' system. (AU)

Structural and functional properties of the Kunitz-type and C-terminal domains of Amblyomin-X supporting its antitumor activity

Amblyomin-X is a Kunitz-type FXa inhibitor identified through the transcriptome analysis of the salivary gland from Amblyomma sculptum tick. This protein consists of two domains of equivalent size, triggers apoptosis in different tumor cell lines, and promotes regression of tumor growth, and reduction of metastasis. To study the structural properties and functional roles of the N-terminal (N-ter) and C-terminal (C-ter) domains of Amblyomin-X, we synthesized them by solid-phase peptide synthesis, solved the X-Ray crystallographic structure of the N-ter domain, confirming its Kunitz-type signature, and studied their biological properties. We show here that the C-ter domain is responsible for the uptake of Amblyomin-X by tumor cells and highlight the ability of this domain to deliver intracellular cargo by the strong enhancement of the intracellular detection of molecules with low cellular-uptake efficiency (p15) after their coupling with the C-ter domain. In contrast, the N-ter Kunitz domain of Amblyomin-X is not capable of crossing through the cell membrane but is associated with tumor cell cytotoxicity when it is microinjected into the cells or fused to TAT cell-penetrating peptide. Additionally, we identify the minimum length C-terminal domain named F2C able to enter in the SK-MEL-28 cells and induces dynein chains gene expression modulation, a molecular motor that plays a role in the uptake and intracellular trafficking of Amblyomin-X.

Prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em pessoas vivendo com HIV / Prevalencia de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles en personas que viven con el VIH / Prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in people living with HIV

Resumo Objetivo Identificar a prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e fatores associados em pessoas vivendo com HIV (PVHIV). Métodos Trata-se de um estudo transversal retrospectivo realizado por meio de uma análise secundária dos dados coletados entre outubro de 2014 a maio de 2018. O banco analisado incluiu amostra de 550 pessoas, provenientes de cinco Serviços de Atendimento Especializado. Foi realizado teste qui-quadrado, Odds Ratio (OR), Razão de Prevalência (RP) e seus respectivos Intervalos de Confiança (IC) de 95%, teste de Wald da estimativa e valor p<0,05. Resultados As doenças crônicas não transmissíveis mais prevalentes foram hipertensão arterial (17,89%), diabetes mellitus (7,51%) e Doença Renal Crônica (4,83%). Ter doença crônica foi associado ao sexo feminino (RP=1,18, OR=1,3, p=0,022), idade maior que 45 anos (RP=2,15, OR=6,36, p=0,001), tempo de estudo menor ou igual a oito anos (RP=1,23, OR=1,92, p=0,005), ter dislipidemia (RP=1,16, OR=2,01, p=0,001), carga viral detectável (RP=2,32, OR=2,59, p=0,001) e a contagem de células TCD4+ menor que 350 células/mm3 (RP=1,5, OR= 1,6, p=0,019), o padrão se repetiu com a razão de prevalência. Conclusão Identificou-se alta prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis entre pessoas vivendo com HIV e diversos fatores associados, considerando assim uma exposição multifatorial. Neste contexto, ressalta-se o importante papel da equipe multiprofissional na prevenção das comorbidades.

Resumen Objetivo Identificar la prevalencia de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles y factores asociados en personas que viven con el VIH (PVVIH). Métodos Se trata de un estudio transversal retrospectivo realizado mediante un análisis secundario de los datos recopilados entre octubre de 2014 y mayo de 2018. El banco analizado incluyó la muestra de 550 personas provenientes de cinco Servicios de Atención Especializada. Se realizó la prueba χ2 de Pearson, Odds Ratio (OR), Razón de Prevalencia (RP) y sus respectivos Intervalos de Confianza (IC) del 95 %, prueba de Wald de la estimación y valor p<0,05. Resultados Las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles más prevalentes fueron la hipertensión arterial (17,89 %), diabetes mellitus (7,51 %) y enfermedad renal crónica (4,83 %). Padecer enfermedad crónica estuvo asociado al sexo femenino (RP=1,18, OR=1,3, p=0,022), edad superior a 45 años (RP=2,15, OR=6,36, p=0,001), tiempo de estudio inferior o igual a ocho años (RP=1,23, OR=1,92, p=0,005), padecer dislipidemia (RP=1,16, OR=2,01, p=0,001), carga viral detectable (RP=2,32, OR=2,59, p=0,001) y el recuento de células TCD4+ inferior a 350 células/mm3 (RP=1,5, OR= 1,6, p=0,019), el patrón se repitió con la razón de prevalencia. Conclusión Se Identificó alta prevalencia de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles en personas que viven con el VIH y distintos factores asociados, considerando, de esa forma, una exposición multifactorial. En este contexto, se destaca el importante papel del equipo multiprofesional para la prevención de las comorbilidades.

Abstract Objective To identify the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases and associated factors in people living with HIV (PLHIV). Methods This is a retrospective cross-sectional study carried out through a secondary data analysis, collected between October 2014 and May 2018. The analyzed database included a sample of 550 people from five Specialized Care Services. Chi-square test, Odds Ratio (OR), Prevalence Ratio (PR) and their respective Confidence Intervals (CI) of 95%, Wald test of the estimate and p-value <0.05 were performed. Results The most prevalent chronic non-communicable diseases were hypertension (17.89%), diabetes mellitus (7.51%) and chronic kidney disease (4.83%). Having a chronic disease was associated with being female (PR=1.18, OR=1.3, p=0.022), age greater than 45 years (PR=2.15, OR=6.36, p=0.001), study time less than or equal to eight years (PR=1.23, OR=1.92, p=0.005), having dyslipidemia (PR=1.16, OR=2.01, p=0.001), detectable viral load (PR=2.32, OR=2.59, p=0.001) and TCD4+ cell count less than 350 cells/mm3 (PR=1.5, OR= 1.6, p=0.019). The pattern was repeated with the Prevalence Ratio. Conclusion A high prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases was identified among people living with HIV and several associated factors, thus considering a multifactorial exposure. In this context, the important role of a multidisciplinary team in comorbidity prevention is emphasized.

Desenvolvimento de Suplementos Artesanais, Análise e Comparação com Suplementos Industriais para Pacientes em Estado de Caquexia do Câncer / Development of Artisanal Supplements, Analysis and Comparison with Industrial Supplements for Cancer Patients with Cachexia / Desarrollo de Suplementos Artesanales, Análisis y Comparación con Suplementos Industriales para Pacientes con Caquexia por Cáncer

Introdução: Um desfecho clínico que pode afetar cerca de 80% dos pacientes com câncer é a caquexia, condição caracterizada pela perda de massa muscular ou de peso, anorexia e perda ou diminuição da força física. Uma estratégia para preservar a via de alimentação oral é a suplementação nutricional. Objetivo: Elaborar suplementos nutricionais artesanais orais cujos macronutrientes sejam similares aos industrializados e comparar as formulações propostas com suplementos industriais em relação à composição nutricional e aos aspectos econômicos. Método: A composição nutricional foi calculada a partir das fichas técnicas, com auxílio da tabela de composição química dos alimentos da Escola Paulista de Medicina e da Tabela Brasileira de Composição de Alimentos. O preço médio dos suplementos industriais foi calculado com base nos valores praticados no mês de dezembro de 2022, consultados na ferramenta Google Shopping. Os ingredientes usados nos suplementos artesanais foram adquiridos em Piracicaba, SP. Resultados: Foram desenvolvidas cinco formulações artesanais comparáveis às formulações industriais em densidade calórica, energética e proteica. Todas utilizam predominantemente lácteos como fonte de proteína e ácido graxo monoinsaturado oleico como fonte lipídica. Os suplementos caseiros priorizam carboidratos naturalmente contidos nos alimentos. Conclusão: Os suplementos alimentares artesanais são alternativas economicamente viáveis e de perfil macronutricional similar aos industriais

Introduction: A clinical outcome that can affect approximately 80% of cancer patients is cachexia, a condition characterized by loss of muscle mass or weight, anorexia and loss or decrease of physical strength. A strategy to preserve the oral feeding pathway is nutritional supplementation. Objective: To elaborate artisanal oral nutritional supplements whose macronutrients are similar to industrialized and compare the nutritional composition and economic aspects of the formulations proposed with industrial supplements. Method: The nutritional composition was calculated from the technical data sheets, supported by the table of chemical composition of foods from "Escola Paulista de Medicina" and the Brazilian Table of Food Composition. The average price of industrial supplements was referred to December 2022 through the Google Shopping tool. The ingredients used in artisanal supplements were purchased in Piracicaba, SP. Results: Five artisanal formulations were developed, comparable to industrial formulations in caloric, energy and protein density. Predominantly, all of them use dairy as source of protein and oleic monounsaturated fatty acid as lipid source. Homemade supplements prioritize carbohydrates naturally contained in food. Conclusion: Homemade food supplements are economically viable alternatives with similar macronutrient profile of industrial ones

Introducción: Un resultado clínico que puede afectar aproximadamente al 80% de los pacientes con cáncer es la caquexia, una condición caracterizada por la pérdida de masa muscular o peso, anorexia y la pérdida o disminución de la fuerza física. Una estrategia para preservar la vía de alimentación oral es la suplementación nutricional. Objetivo: Elaborar suplementos nutricionales orales artesanales cuyos macronutrientes sean similares a los industrializados y comparar las formulaciones propuestas con los suplementos industriales en relación a la composición nutricional y aspectos económicos. Método: La composición nutricional se calculó a partir de las fichas técnicas, con la ayuda de la tabla de composición química de los alimentos de la Escola Paulista de Medicina y la Tabla Brasileña de Composición de Alimentos. El precio promedio de los suplementos industriales se calculó con base en los valores cobrados en diciembre de 2022, consultados en la herramienta Google Shopping. Los ingredientes utilizados en los suplementos artesanales fueron adquiridos en Piracicaba-SP. Resultados: Se desarrollaron cinco formulaciones artesanales comparables a las formulaciones industriales en densidad calórica, energética y proteica. Todas utilizan predominantemente productos lácteos como fuente de proteínas y ácidos grasos monoinsaturados oleicos como fuente de lípidos. Los suplementos caseros priorizan los carbohidratos contenidos naturalmente en los alimentos. Conclusión: Los complementos alimenticios caseros son alternativas económicamente viables con un perfil macronutricional similar a los industriales

Polarisation of human macrophages towards an M1 subtype triggered by an atypical Brazilian strain of Toxoplasma gondii results in a reduction in parasite burden.

Toxoplasma gondii Nicolle et Manceaux, 1909, the etiologic agent of toxoplasmosis, was considered a clonal population with three distinct genetic lineages (I, II and III); however, sequence analysis of different strains has revealed distinct atypical genotypes. Macrophages are essential for immunity against toxoplasmosis and differential cell regulation may affect the course of the disease. In this context, our study aims to investigate the infection by TgChBrUD2, a highly virulent atypical Brazilian strain of T. gondii, on the activation and polarisation of human macrophages. Human macrophage-like cells obtained from THP-1 cells were infected with TgChBrUD2, RH or ME49 strains of T. gondii to evaluate the impact of parasite infection on macrophage polarisation. Our results indicate that the TgChBrUD2 and ME49 strains of T. gondii induced a classic activation of human macrophages, which was confirmed by the high rate of spindle-shaped macrophages, low amount of urea and increase in the levels of nitrite, as well as the down-regulation of M2-markers. In contrast, RH strain promoted an alternative activation of macrophages. The polarisation of human macrophages towards an M1 subtype mediated by TgChBrUD2 and ME49 strains resulted in a low parasite burden, with high levels of IL-6 and MIF. Finally, the M2 subtype triggered by the RH strain culminated in a lower intracellular proliferation index. We concluded that the atypical (TgChBrUD2) and clonal (ME49) strains are able to elicit an M1 subtype, which results in parasitism control, partially explained by the high levels of IL-6 and MIF produced during the infection by these genotypes. In contrast, the clonal (RH) strain promoted a macrophage polarisation towards an M2 subtype, marked by a high parasite burden, with a weak modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, atypical strains can present different mechanisms of pathogenicity and transmissibility compared to clonal strains, as well as they can use distinct strategies to evade the host's immune response and ensure their survival.

Prune homolog 2 with BCH domain (PRUNE2) gene expression is associated with feed efficiency-related traits in Nelore steers.

Animal feeding is a critical factor in increasing producer profitability. Improving feed efficiency can help reduce feeding costs and reduce the environmental impact of beef production. Candidate genes previously identified for this trait in differential gene expression studies (e.g., case-control studies) have not examined continuous gene-phenotype variation, which is a limitation. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the expression of five candidate genes in the liver, measured by quantitative real-time PCR and feed-related traits. We adopted a linear mixed model to associate liver gene expression from 52 Nelore steers with the following production traits: average daily gain (ADG), body weight (BW), dry matter intake (DMI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (FE), Kleiber index (KI), metabolic body weight (MBW), residual feed intake (RFI), and relative growth ratio (RGR). The total expression of the prune homolog 2 (PRUNE2) gene was significantly associated with DMI, FCR, FE, and RFI (P < 0.05). Furthermore, we have identified a new transcript of PRUNE2 (TCONS_00027692, GenBank MZ041267) that was inversely correlated with FCR and FE (P < 0.05), in contrast to the originally identified PRUNE2 transcript. The cytochrome P450 subfamily 2B (CYP2B6), early growth response protein 1 (EGR1), collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) genes were not associated with any feed efficiency-related traits (P > 0.05). The findings reported herein suggest that PRUNE2 expression levels affects feed efficiency-related traits variation in Nelore steers.

DNA methylation may affect beef tenderness through signal transduction in Bos indicus.

BACKGROUND: Beef tenderness is a complex trait of economic importance for the beef industry. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms underlying this trait may help improve the accuracy of breeding programs. However, little is known about epigenetic effects on Bos taurus muscle and their implications in tenderness, and no studies have been conducted in Bos indicus. RESULTS: Comparing methylation profile of Bos indicus skeletal muscle with contrasting beef tenderness at 14 days after slaughter, we identified differentially methylated cytosines and regions associated with this trait. Interestingly, muscle that became tender beef had higher levels of hypermethylation compared to the tough group. Enrichment analysis of predicted target genes suggested that differences in methylation between tender and tough beef may affect signal transduction pathways, among which G protein signaling was a key pathway. In addition, different methylation levels were found associated with expression levels of GNAS, PDE4B, EPCAM and EBF3 genes. The differentially methylated elements correlated with EBF3 and GNAS genes overlapped CpG islands and regulatory elements. GNAS, a complex imprinted gene, has a key role on G protein signaling pathways. Moreover, both G protein signaling pathway and the EBF3 gene regulate muscle homeostasis, relaxation, and muscle cell-specificity. CONCLUSIONS: We present differentially methylated loci that may be of interest to decipher the epigenetic mechanisms affecting tenderness. Supported by the previous knowledge about regulatory elements and gene function, the methylation data suggests EBF3 and GNAS as potential candidate genes and G protein signaling as potential candidate pathway associated with beef tenderness via methylation.

Composição de fenólicos, flavonoides, antocianinas, determinação da atividade antioxidante e comparação de métodos extrativos da folha e da casca de Caryocar brasiliense / Composition of Phenolic, Flavonoids, Anthocyanins, Determination of Antioxidant Activity and Comparison of Extractive Methods of Leaf and Bark of Caryocar brasiliense

Introdução: Caryocar brasiliense é conhecida popularmente como Pequi ou Pequizeiro, sendo uma planta com propriedades medicinais para tratamento de doenças respiratórias, úlceras gástricas e dores musculares. Objetivo: comparar a extração de biocompostos por meio de dois métodos extrativos, agitação magnética e banho ultrassônico. Além disso, avaliar a atividade antioxidante, o teor de compostos fenólicos, flavonoides e antocianinas em extratos das folhas e da casca de Pequi (C. brasiliense), com vistas a agregar valor quanto às suas propriedades funcionais. Metodologia: o conteúdo de compostos fenólicos foi determinado pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteu, flavonoides e antocianinas pelo método de Lima e Melo. A atividade antioxidante foi medida pelo método 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazil (DPPH). Resultados: o extrato das folhas de Pequi exibiu maior teor de fenólicos em relação à casca, independente do método de extração. O extrato das folhas obtido em banho ultrassônico apresentou forte atividade antioxidante com valor de 72,2%. Conclusão: os extratos de Pequi demonstraram um perfil fitoquímico promissor que deve ser investigado no futuro para aplicação farmacológica como adjuvante ou precursor na síntese de novos cosméticos ou medicamentos com propriedades antioxidante.

Introduction: Caryocar brasiliense is a medicinal plant used in the treatment of respiratory diseases, gastric ulcers and muscle pain. Objective: to compare the extraction of natural compounds using two extractive methods, magnetic stirring and ultrasonic bath. In addition, to evaluate the antioxidant activity, the content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and anthocyanins in the leaves and bark of Pequi (C. brasiliense), with a view to adding value through its functional properties. Methodology: the phenolic content was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, flavonoids and anthocyanins by the Lima and Melo method. Antioxidant activity was measured using the 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrilhhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Results: the extract of the Pequi leaves exhibited a higher phenolic content in relation to the bark for both extraction methods. The Pequi leaf in an ultrasonic bath showed strong antioxidant activity with a value of 72.2%. Conclusion: Pequi extracts demonstrated a promising phytochemical profile that should be investigated in the future for pharmacological application as an adjuvant or precursor in the synthesis of a new cosmetic or medicine with antioxidant function.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Balanced Gut Microbiota on Chronic Inflammatory Diseases: A Close Look at Ulcerative Colitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis.

The aim of this article was to review experimental and clinical studies regarding the use of omega-3 fatty acids on the prevention and control of chronic inflammatory diseases with autoimmune background through the gut microbiota modulation. For this, natural omega-3 sources are presented emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet for the body's homeostasis and the enzymatic processes that these fatty acids go through once inside the body. The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis are revisited under the light of the gut microbiota dysbiosis approach and how those fatty acids are able to prevent and control these two pathological conditions that are responsible for the global chronic burden and functional disability and life-threatening comorbidities if not treated properly. As a matter of reflection, as we are living a pandemic crisis owing to COVID-19 infection, we present the potential of omega-3 in preventing a poor prognosis once they contribute to balancing the immune system modulation the inflammatory process.

Linseed, Baru, and Coconut Oils: NMR-Based Metabolomics, Leukocyte Infiltration Potential In Vivo, and Their Oil Characterization. Are There Still Controversies?

Different fatty acid proportions produce potential inflammatory and metabolic changes in organisms. However, the evidence for how each fatty acid mediates the metabolic pathway, and its lipid stability remains controversial. To resolve this controversy, the present study investigated the metabolic effects of cold-pressed linseed (LG), coconut (CG), and baru (BG) oils in comparison to those of soybean oil (SG) in mice, in terms of their oil characterization and stability. The quality analysis showed less oxidative behavior among PUFA-rich oils (SO, BO, and LO, with induction periods lower than 2 h compared to 39.8 h for CG), besides the high contents of tocopherols and carotenoids in SG and LG. In the experimental study, CG presented higher triglyceride (257.93 ± 72.30) and VLDL-cholesterol levels (51.59 ± 14.46, p < 0.05), while LG reduced LDL levels (59.29 ± 7.56, p < 0.05) when compared to SG (183.14 ± 22.06, 36.63 ± 4.41 and 131.63 ± 29.0, respectively). For visceral fats, the adiposity index was lower for BG (7.32 ± 3.13) and CG (9.58 ± 1.02, p < 0.05) in relation to SG (12.53 ± 2.80), and for leukocyte recruitment, CG presented lower polymorphonuclear (PMN) (p < 0.0001) and mononuclear (MN) (p < 0.05) cell infiltration, demonstrating anti-inflammatory potential. In NMR-based metabolomics, although CG presented higher values for the glucose, lactate, and LDL/VLDL ratio, this group also evidenced high levels of choline, a lipotropic metabolite. Our study emphasized the controversies of saturated fatty acids, which impair serum lipids, while alfa-linolenic acid presented cardioprotective effects. However, coconut oil also has a positive immunomodulatory pathway and was found to reduce visceral bodyfat in mice. Therefore, for future applications, we suggest a combination of lauric and al-fa-linolenic acid sources, which are present in coconut and linseed oil, respectively. This combination could be less obesogenic and inflammatory and exert cardioprotective action.