Knowledge, behavior and practices of the population during the pandemic against the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the state of Alagoas, Brazil.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared an international state of emergency in order to contain the rapid spread of COVID-19. To ensure that there is adherence to preventive measures by the population aimed at controlling the pandemic in Alagoas, it is expected that knowledge, behavior and practices play an important role in preventing and controlling the disease. In this sense, it becomes relevant to understand the knowledge of the population about the disease. To evaluate the knowledge, behavior and practices of social media users during social isolation to prevent the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 in the state of Alagoas, Northeast, Brazil. A probabilistic sample was carried out across the entire territory of the state of Alagoas with those who have access to a device that accesses the internet and a cross-sectional study was carried out using an online questionnaire applied to a convenience sample, recruited between August 2021 and July 2022 by snowball sampling. The questionnaire consisted of seven sessions, the first collecting data on the socioeconomic and sociodemographic profile of the participants, and the other sessions involving knowledge, attitudes and practices, including topics related to the vaccination that had to be administered at that time. High popular knowledge about signs and symptoms, means of transmission and risk groups. Low knowledge about seeking health services. Based on the results obtained, information from official channels became relevant to better teach the population in order to reduce the impact of COVID-19.

Moderate physical exercise and ATP modulate the P2X7 receptor and improve cisplatin-induced gastric emptying delay in rats.

Patients undergoing chemotherapy with cisplatin commonly present gastrointestinal effects such as constipation and gastric emptying (GE) delay. Both the purinergic system and physical exercise modulate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In the current study, we investigated the role of ATP, physical exercise, and P2X7 receptor blocking on GE delay induced by cisplatin in rats. Male rats were divided into the following groups: control (C), cisplatin (Cis), exercise (Ex), Brilliant Blue G (BBG), ATP, Cis+Ex, Cis+ATP, Cis+BBG, Cis+Ex+BBG, Cis+Ex+BBG+ATP, and Cis+ATP+BBG. GE delay was induced by treatment with 1 mg/kg cisplatin (1 time/week for 5 weeks, ip). The moderate physical exercise was swimming (1 h/day, 5 days/week for 5 weeks). At the end of the treatment or exercise and 30 min before the GE assessment, some groups received BBG (50 mg/kg, sc) or ATP (2 mg/kg, sc). Then, GE was assessed after a 10-min postprandial period. Chronic use of Cis decreased GE delay (P<0.05) compared to the control group. Both exercise and ATP prevented (P<0.05) GE delay compared to Cis. The pretreatment with BBG significantly inhibited (P<0.05) the effect of exercise and ATP. On the other hand, the association between exercise and ATP reversed (P<0.05) the effect of the BBG and prevented GE delay. Therefore, we suggest that both exercise and treatment with ATP activate P2X7 receptors and prevent GE delay induced by cisplatin in rats.

Moderate physical exercise and ATP modulate the P2X7 receptor and improve cisplatin-induced gastric emptying delay in rats

Patients undergoing chemotherapy with cisplatin commonly present gastrointestinal effects such as constipation and gastric emptying (GE) delay. Both the purinergic system and physical exercise modulate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In the current study, we investigated the role of ATP, physical exercise, and P2X7 receptor blocking on GE delay induced by cisplatin in rats. Male rats were divided into the following groups: control (C), cisplatin (Cis), exercise (Ex), Brilliant Blue G (BBG), ATP, Cis+Ex, Cis+ATP, Cis+BBG, Cis+Ex+BBG, Cis+Ex+BBG+ATP, and Cis+ATP+BBG. GE delay was induced by treatment with 1 mg/kg cisplatin (1 time/week for 5 weeks, ip). The moderate physical exercise was swimming (1 h/day, 5 days/week for 5 weeks). At the end of the treatment or exercise and 30 min before the GE assessment, some groups received BBG (50 mg/kg, sc) or ATP (2 mg/kg, sc). Then, GE was assessed after a 10-min postprandial period. Chronic use of Cis decreased GE delay (P<0.05) compared to the control group. Both exercise and ATP prevented (P<0.05) GE delay compared to Cis. The pretreatment with BBG significantly inhibited (P<0.05) the effect of exercise and ATP. On the other hand, the association between exercise and ATP reversed (P<0.05) the effect of the BBG and prevented GE delay. Therefore, we suggest that both exercise and treatment with ATP activate P2X7 receptors and prevent GE delay induced by cisplatin in rats.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma arising from areas of Graft-versus-host disease: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is an immune system reaction that occurs in patients with a history of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), in which the grafted donor's cells attack those of the host. The objective of this systematic review was to present a study on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSSC) that developed from GVHD areas in patients undergoing HSCT. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An electronic search was conducted in the databases PUBMED, WEB OF SCIENCE, SCOPUS, MEDLINE and SCIENCE DIRECT, according to PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Of the 1582 results, 23 articles were included, resulting in 81 cases. The most common underlying disease for performing the transplant was Myeloid Leukemia (55.6%). The mean age was 39 years, with a predilection for males (64.2%). The tongue was the site of GVHD that most frequently underwent transformation to SCC (59.3%). The average time between transplantation and the development of GVHD was of approximately of 8 months, while the average period of development between transplantation and the development of OSCC was of approximately of 111 months. The most common treatment to GVHD was cyclosporine associated with corticosteroids. CONCLUSIONS: OSCCs arising from areas of GVHD present a different evolution from conventional oral carcinomas, since they affect younger patients, smoking and alcohol are not important etiological factors and finally because they present good prognosis, but further studies with larger number cases followed are needed to confirm our findings.

Influence of Thickness and Translucency of Lithium Disilicate Ceramic on the Degree of Conversion of Resin Cements with Different Initiators.

INTRODUCTION: The degree of conversion (DC) of resin cements can be affected by ceramics, and by the type of resin cement. The purpose was to evaluate the influence of thickness and translucencies of lithium disilicate ceramic on the DC of resin cements: two light-cure (Variolink LC; NX3 LC) and one dual-cure (NX3 Dual). METHODS: IPS e.max Press ceramic (A2) discs were prepared in 4 thicknesses (0.3, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mm) and in 3 translucencies: HT (high translucency), LT (low translucency), and MO (medium opacity). Subsequently, 234 samples of resin cement (5 x 1 mm) were light-cured through those ceramic discs. The DC was assessed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). RESULTS: Ceramic thicknesses decreased DC of NX3 Dual through HT-1.0 and HT 1.5 (p=0.005). Between translucencies, only MO-0.3 affected Variolink LC DC (p=0.018). There was difference among light- and dual-cured resin cements (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Increasing thickness and opacity lead to a decrease in the DC of all resin cements, with a significantly lower DC value in NX3 Dual (HT-1.0; HT-1.5), and in Variolink LC (MO- 0.3). Light- and dual-cured resin cements were different among each other. NX3 Dual achieved a significantly lower value than its counterpart NX3 LC.

Effects of gibberellic acid concentration and fruit maturation stage on seed germination and vigor of pitahaya seedlings / Doses de ácido giberélico e estágio de maturação de frutos na germinação de sementes e vigor de plântulas de pitaya

With increased interest in cultivation, the study of white-fleshed pitahaya (Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt, Cactaceae family) seedling production is of fundamental importance in the search for novel techniques to increase cultivation and guarantee homogeneous and productive orchards. The present study investigated the influence of various gibberellic acid (GA3) concentrations and fruit maturation stages on seed germination and vigor of white-fleshed pitahaya seedlings, considering the physiological quality of seedlings produced to support genetic breeding and conservation programs of the species. White-fleshed pitahaya seeds at two maturation stages (physiologically ripe and maintained at 10 °C in Biochemical Oxygen Demand incubators for three months) were treated with varying GA3 concentrations of 0, 50, 100, and 500 mg/L. We observed the influence of fruit storage on seedling germination, emergence, and growth as a function of GA3 concentration. According to the results, seeds extracted from ripe white-fleshed pitahaya fruits grown under the conditions tested here required GA3 application to increase seedling emergence and vigor, with optimal doses in the 150-300-mg/L range. In the case of pitahaya fruits intended for storage for future seed removal and maintained under the same sowing conditions, the application of higher doses of GA3 was necessary when compared to the previous condition, with a minimum dose of 500 mg/L GA3. The present study shows that the maturation stage of white-fleshed pitahaya fruits intended for seed removal influences the quality of seedlings; therefore, the use of seeds extracted from ripe pitahaya fruits without fermentation is more appropriate for the purpose.

Com o crescente interesse no seu cultivo, estudos na produção de pitaya ((Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt, família Cactaceae) é de fundamental importância quando se busca novas técnicas para o incremento do cultivo e garantia de um pomar homogêneo e produtivo. Objetivou-se avaliar a influência do uso de diferentes concentrações de ácido giberélico e do estágio de maturação de frutos na germinação de sementes e vigor de plântulas de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca, tendo em vista a qualidade fisiológica de mudas produzidas a fim de subsidiar trabalhos de melhoramento genético e conservação da espécie. Foram utilizadas sementes de frutos de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca em dois estágios de maturação (fisiologicamente maduros e conservados à 10°C em BOD por 3 meses), tratadas com diferentes concentrações de ácido giberélico: 0, 50, 100 e 500 mg/L. Foi possível observar que houve influência do armazenamento de frutos na germinação, emergência e crescimento das plântulas em função das concentrações de ácido giberélico. Assim, verifica-se que, no caso de sementes extraídas de frutos maduros de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca, quando semeadas nas condições do presente estudo, é necessário a utilização de GA3 para incrementar a emergência e o vigor das plântulas, com doses ótimas variando entre 150 e 300 mg/L. No caso da necessidade em armazenar os frutos de pitaya para a posterior retirada de sementes, também nas mesmas condições de semeadura do presente estudo, observa-se que, em síntese, é necessária a utilização de GA3, porém em doses maiores do que o observado no primeiro, sendo de, no mínimo, 500 mg/L. O presente estudo mostra que há influência do estágio de maturação dos frutos de pitaya vermelha de polpa branca para retirada de sementes sobre a qualidade das mudas, concluindo que o uso de sementes extraídas de frutos maduros, sem fermentação, é mais adequado para esta finalidade.

Fish diversity in the rivers that drain the Baixada Maranhense and the Mearim basin in northeastern Brazil.

The Baixada Maranhense Environmental Protection Area of the Brazilian state of Maranhão encompasses a biologically rich region that includes the basins of four principal rivers, the Mearim, Pericumã, Pindaré, and Turiaçu, which form a complex of wetlands. The present study provides a comprehensive inventory of the fish fauna of the rivers that drain the Baixada Maranhense based on the identification of voucher specimens that were deposited in a scientific collection. Expeditions were conducted between 2014 and 2020. The inventory identified a total of 100 fish species representing 79 genera, 34 families, and 11 orders, which are found in both freshwater and estuarine environments. Six (Potamotrygon orbignyi, Leporinus piau, Moenkhausia loweae, Serrasalmus spilopleura, Pachypops fourcroi and Peckoltia greedoi) of the 100 taxa identified here are considered to be new records for one or more of the basins surveyed during this study, based on the existing data, while four - Colossoma macropomum, Megaleporinus macrocephalus, Cichla sp. and Cichla kelberi - are not native. The most speciose orders were the Siluriformes and Characiformes, while the most diverse families were the Loricariidae, Characidae, Auchenipteridae, Cichlidae, and Serrasalmidae. These data are consistent with the findings of most of the previous studies of freshwater ecosystems in the Neotropical region, in particular those of the rivers of Maranhão. The results of the present study represent an important advance in the understanding of the diversity of the fish fauna of the Mearim, Pericumã, Pindaré, and Turiaçu rivers, which are still poorly studied, and have likely had their diversity underestimated up to now.

Cell therapy with adipose tissue-derived human stem cells in the urinary bladder improves detrusor contractility and reduces voiding residue.

Detrusor hypocontractility (DH) is a disease without a gold standard treatment in traditional medicine. Therefore, there is a need to develop innovative therapies. The present report presents the case of a patient with DH who was transplanted with 2 x 106 adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells twice and achieved significant improvements in their quality of life. The results showed that cell therapy reduced the voiding residue from 1,800 mL to 800 mL, the maximum cystometric capacity from 800 to 550 mL, and bladder compliance from 77 to 36.6 mL/cmH2O. Cell therapy also increased the maximum flow from 3 to 11 mL/s, the detrusor pressure from 08 to 35 cmH2O, the urine volume from 267 to 524 mL and the bladder contractility index (BCI) value from 23 to 90. The International Continence on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form score decreased from 17 to 8. Given the above, it is inferred that the transplantation of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells is an innovative and efficient therapeutic strategy for DH treatment and improves the quality of life of patients affected by this disease.

P2X7 receptor antagonist improves gastrointestinal disorders in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

The purinergic system participates in the control of blood pressure. Hypertension promotes the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders such as intestinal inflammation and gastric emptying delay. This study aimed i) to investigate the participation of the P2X7 receptor blocker Brilliant Blue G (BBG) on gastric emptying of solids and changes in oxidative stress in the gastric fundus, duodenum, and colon of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and ii) to study the putative relationship of this effect with the renin-angiotensin system. Rats were divided into five groups: Control, SHR, SHR+BBG, SHR+BBG+ATP, and SHR+BBG+ANG II. In the gastrointestinal tract, we assessed gastric emptying (GE) and oxidative stress markers (NOx, MPO, GSH, SOD). We observed a decrease in the GE rate (P<0.05) in SHR vs control rats (21.8±2.0% vs 42.8±3.5%). The decrease in GE was returned (P<0.05) to control levels by BBG in SHR rats (21.8±2.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). Co-administration of ATP or ANG II together with BBG bypassed the effect of the P2X7 antagonist on GE in SHR (P<0.05) (21.9±5.0% vs 25.6±3.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). The MPO activity increased (P<0.05) in the gastric fundus of SHR compared to control rats (6.12±2.26 vs 0.077±0.02 UMPO/mg tissue); this effect was prevented (P<0.05) by BBG (0.55±0.15 vs 6.12±2.26 UMPO/mg tissue). Data demonstrated that blockage of P2X7 receptors with BBG can improve the GE delay and oxidative stress biomarkers in SHR animals. This preventive effect of BBG on GE delay was abrogated by ANG II and ATP, thus prompting crosstalk between renin-angiotensin and the purinergic signaling systems underlying this phenomenon.

Immuno-oncology in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma - a narrative review.

Immuno-oncology studies the immune system in cancer. In recent decades, immunotherapy has shown a good response to the treatment of various locally advanced and metastatic cancers. The main mechanisms of action include stimulation of the patient's own immune system to enhance immune responses acting in tumor escape pathways. This review examined the literature related to immune system mechanisms in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and their application in immunotherapy using biomarkers. The PUBMED, LILACS, MEDLINE, WHOLIS, and SCIELO databases were searched using the terms squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck, immuno-oncology, immunotherapy, and immunology. The main drugs currently available for clinical use in patients diagnosed with HNSCC include pembrolizumab and nivolumab, both classified as check-point inhibitors. These immunobiological agents improve patient survival and quality of life. Many authors and clinical trials point out that the recommendation of these agents is linked to the dose of PD-L1 (ligand expressed primarily by tumor cells), which proved to be an unreliable biomarker in the patient selection. Recommendation of immunotherapy depends on reliable biomarkers that must be identified in order to achieve good therapeutic results.

Resistance profile and biofilm production of Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus sp., and Streptococcus spp. from dairy farms in southern Brazil.

Milk is a high nutritional value food that helps in human development and growth. However, it can also harbor microorganisms. Therefore, the objective of this study was to isolate, identify and evaluate the resistance profile and pathogenicity factors of gram-positive cocci isolated from liners in milking rooms in the south of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Biochemical and molecular tests were performed for the identification. The following were isolated: Enterococcus faecalis (10), Enterococcus faecium (4), Staphylococcus intermedius (1), Streptococcus uberis (1), and Streptococcus dysgalactiae (1). The susceptibility of isolated microorganisms to eight antibiotics was evaluated according to CLSI, and the genus that proved to be resistant to most of those was Enterococcus. In addition, all 17 isolates were able to form biofilm, which remained viable after the use of neutral, alkaline and alkaline-chlorinated detergent. The only product that was effective against biofilm of all microorganisms was chlorhexidine 2%. The results obtained highlight the importance of pre- and post-dipping tests on dairy properties, in which chlorhexidine is one of the disinfectants used. As observed, products indicated for cleaning and descaling pipes were not effective on biofilms of the different species tested.

Effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review with meta-analysis and grade recommendations.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate extracorporeal shock wave therapy effect on knee osteoarthritis compared to a sham or kinesiotherapy by a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. DATA SOURCES: The search was performed in: Cochrane Library, PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, LILACS, and Scielo. REVIEW METHODS: We performed the online search until October, 2022. The following terms were used (Osteoarthritis) AND ("knee joint") AND ("Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy"). Eligibility criteria: (1) randomized clinical trials; (2) effects comparison of shockwave therapy to a sham or kinesiotherapy in individuals with knee osteoarthritis; (3) pain and physical function as outcome variables. Risk of bias assessed using the PEDro scale. PROSPERO registration (CRD42021235597). RESULTS: We identified 4217 studies, and 12 were included in the qualitative synthesis and the meta-analysis, totaling 403 individuals submitted to the intervention and 331 control individuals. Compared to sham, shockwave was favored in short-term for the function outcome (SMD = -1.93; 95%CI: [-2.77; -1.09]; I² = 83%; P < 0.01). For the pain outcome, the shockwave was favored in the short (MD = -2.05; 95%CI: [-2.59; -1.51]; I² = 84%; P < 0.01), medium (MD = -3.46; 95%CI: [-4.03; -2.89]; I² = 0%; P < 0.01) and long-term (MD = -2.01; 95%CI: [-3.36; -0.65]; I² = 98%; P < 0.01). The association with kinesiotherapy was favored in the short term for the function outcome (SMD = -1.88; 95%CI: [-2.98; -0.78]; I² = 94%; P < 0.01) and favored for the pain outcome in the short (MD = -1.44; 95%CI: [-1.81; -1.07]; I² = 37%; P = 0.14), medium (MD = -1,31; 95%CI: [-1.76; -0,85]; I² = 0%; P = 0.41), and long terms (MD = -1.63; 95%CI: [-1.73; -1.52]; I² = 0%; P = 0.43). CONCLUSION: Shockwave therapy may improve functionality in patients with knee osteoarthritis in the short term and pain in all follow-up moments, compared with sham. When associated to kinesiotherapy, it may improve function in the short term and pain in all follow-up time points, although improvement in pain may not be clinically significant.

Cell therapy with adipose tissue-derived human stem cells in the urinary bladder improves detrusor contractility and reduces voiding residue / A terapia celular com células-tronco humanas derivadas do tecido adiposo na bexiga urinária melhora a contratilidade do detrusor e reduz o resíduo miccional

Detrusor hypocontractility (DH) is a disease without a gold standard treatment in traditional medicine. Therefore, there is a need to develop innovative therapies. The present report presents the case of a patient with DH who was transplanted with 2 x 106 adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells twice and achieved significant improvements in their quality of life. The results showed that cell therapy reduced the voiding residue from 1,800 mL to 800 mL, the maximum cystometric capacity from 800 to 550 mL, and bladder compliance from 77 to 36.6 mL/cmH2O. Cell therapy also increased the maximum flow from 3 to 11 mL/s, the detrusor pressure from 08 to 35 cmH2O, the urine volume from 267 to 524 mL and the bladder contractility index (BCI) value from 23 to 90. The International Continence on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form score decreased from 17 to 8. Given the above, it is inferred that the transplantation of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells is an innovative and efficient therapeutic strategy for DH treatment and improves the quality of life of patients affected by this disease.

A Hipocontratilidade Detrusora (HD) é uma doença sem um tratamento padrão-ouro na medicina tradicional. Logo, há a necessidade de desenvolvimento de terapias inovadoras. O presente relato apresenta um caso de paciente com HD transplantado duas vezes com 2 x 106 células-tronco mesenquimais derivadas do tecido adiposo que obteve melhoras significativas em sua qualidade de vida. Os resultados demonstraram que a terapia celular reduziu o resíduo miccional de 1.800mL para 800mL; a Capacidade Cistométrica Máxima de 800 para 550mL; a complacência de 77 para 36,6mL/cmH2O. A terapia celular também aumentou o fluxo máximo de 3 para 11mL/s; a pressão detrusora de 08 para 35cmH2O; o volume urinado de 267 para 524mL e o índice de contratilidade vesical (BCI) de 23 para 90. O score do International Continence on Incontinence Questionare - Short Form passou de 17 para 8. Diante do exposto, infere-se que o transplante de células-tronco mesenquimais derivadas do tecido adiposo é uma estratégia terapêutica inovadora e eficiente para o tratamento da HD e para melhoria da qualidade de vida de pacientes acometidos por essa doença.

P2X7 receptor antagonist improves gastrointestinal disorders in spontaneously hypertensive rats

The purinergic system participates in the control of blood pressure. Hypertension promotes the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders such as intestinal inflammation and gastric emptying delay. This study aimed i) to investigate the participation of the P2X7 receptor blocker Brilliant Blue G (BBG) on gastric emptying of solids and changes in oxidative stress in the gastric fundus, duodenum, and colon of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and ii) to study the putative relationship of this effect with the renin-angiotensin system. Rats were divided into five groups: Control, SHR, SHR+BBG, SHR+BBG+ATP, and SHR+BBG+ANG II. In the gastrointestinal tract, we assessed gastric emptying (GE) and oxidative stress markers (NOx, MPO, GSH, SOD). We observed a decrease in the GE rate (P<0.05) in SHR vs control rats (21.8±2.0% vs 42.8±3.5%). The decrease in GE was returned (P<0.05) to control levels by BBG in SHR rats (21.8±2.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). Co-administration of ATP or ANG II together with BBG bypassed the effect of the P2X7 antagonist on GE in SHR (P<0.05) (21.9±5.0% vs 25.6±3.0% vs 41.6±3.2%). The MPO activity increased (P<0.05) in the gastric fundus of SHR compared to control rats (6.12±2.26 vs 0.077±0.02 UMPO/mg tissue); this effect was prevented (P<0.05) by BBG (0.55±0.15 vs 6.12±2.26 UMPO/mg tissue). Data demonstrated that blockage of P2X7 receptors with BBG can improve the GE delay and oxidative stress biomarkers in SHR animals. This preventive effect of BBG on GE delay was abrogated by ANG II and ATP, thus prompting crosstalk between renin-angiotensin and the purinergic signaling systems underlying this phenomenon.

Immuno-oncology in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma - a narrative review

Immuno-oncology studies the immune system in cancer. In recent decades, immunotherapy has shown a good response to the treatment of various locally advanced and metastatic cancers. The main mechanisms of action include stimulation of the patient's own immune system to enhance immune responses acting in tumor escape pathways. This review examined the literature related to immune system mechanisms in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and their application in immunotherapy using biomarkers. The PUBMED, LILACS, MEDLINE, WHOLIS, and SCIELO databases were searched using the terms squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck, immuno-oncology, immunotherapy, and immunology. The main drugs currently available for clinical use in patients diagnosed with HNSCC include pembrolizumab and nivolumab, both classified as check-point inhibitors. These immunobiological agents improve patient survival and quality of life. Many authors and clinical trials point out that the recommendation of these agents is linked to the dose of PD-L1 (ligand expressed primarily by tumor cells), which proved to be an unreliable biomarker in the patient selection. Recommendation of immunotherapy depends on reliable biomarkers that must be identified in order to achieve good therapeutic results.

Unilateral perineal hernia surgery. Case report / Cirugía unilateral de hernia perineal. Reporte de caso

ABSTRACT Perineal hernia results from weakening and/or the inability of the pelvic diaphragm to support the rectal wall, promoting caudal displacement of abdominal or pelvic organs in the perineum. Unneutered male dogs aged between 7 and 10 years are the most affected, being rare in females. The main clinical signs are unilateral or bilateral swelling of the perineal region, associated or not with tenesmus, dysuria, urinary and/or fecal incontinence, anuria and pain during defecation. The diagnosis is based on clinical history, anamnesis, physical examination, and complementary tests such as radiography and ultrasound. Clinical treatment can be done in some cases, but surgical intervention is required to resolve the problem. The present work aims to report the case of a patient treated at the FullPet Veterinary Clinic in Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil, a 7-year-old male Yorkshire canine, unneutered, weighing 4.5 kg. The same was submitted to surgery by the traditional method of suture with nylon thread and enteropexy. When there was recurrence, surgical reintervention was necessary to correct the hernia using a polypropylene mesh.

RESUMEN La hernia perineal resulta del debilitamiento y/o incapacidad del diafragma pélvico para sostener la pared rectal, lo que promueve el desplazamiento caudal de los órganos abdominales o pélvicos en el perineo. Los perros machos no castrados de entre 7 y 10 años son los más afectados, siendo raro en las hembras. Los principales signos clínicos son tumefacción unilateral o bilateral de la región perineal, asociada o no a tenesmo, disuria, incontinencia urinaria y/o fecal, anuria y dolor durante la defecación. El diagnóstico se basa en la historia clínica, la anamnesis, el examen físico y pruebas complementarias como la radiografía simple y la ecografía. El tratamiento clínico se puede hacer en algunos casos, pero se requiere una intervención quirúrgica para resolver el problema. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo relatar el caso de un paciente atendido en la Clínica Veterinaria FullPet de Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brasil, un canino Yorkshire macho de 7 años, sin castrar, con un peso de 4,5 kg. Fue intervenido quirúrgicamente por el método tradicional de sutura con hilo de nylon y enteropexia. Cuando hubo recidiva, fue necesaria la reintervención quirúrgica para corregir la hernia mediante una malla de polipropileno.

Reproductive alterations of Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Chen, 1935) and exposed to Euphorbia milii var. hislopii latex.

The natural phytochemical latex of Euphorbia milii var. hislopii is one of the most promising natural molluscicides for the control of Biomphalaria glabrata, and has been widely studied under laboratory conditions for selective control of schistosomiasis transmission. However, the effect of this product on B. glabrata infected by other helminths had not yet been investigated. The present study reports evaluation of the effect of E. milii var. hislopii latex on the survival and reproductive activity of B. glabrata infected by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. For this purpose, the following groups were formed: control (C), exposed (E), infected (I) and infected and exposed for different time intervals (1 day - I+E-1D, 7 days - I+E-7D, 14 days - I+E-14D, 21 days - I+E-21D and 28 days - I+E-28D). The experimental infection was performed with L1 larvae of A. cantonensis and exposure to 0.08 mg/L (LC50) of E. milii latex for a period of 24 hours. We analyzed the effects of E. milii latex on the survival of snails during four weeks, reproductive parameters and possible histophysiopathological changes in the gonad and albumen gland of the snails. Regarding survival, there was reduction of more than 50% in the groups exposed to latex (E and I + E) compared to the control group. As for the number of ovigerous masses, eggs, and average number of hatched snails, significant increases were observed in the I+E-1D group at the 4th week compared to the control group and the other weeks in the same group. Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae were observed in the gonad and albumen gland from day 21 and 28 of infection in groups I and I+E, respectively, with granuloma-like formation. At these observation periods and in these groups, an increase in galactogen was observed in the albumen gland, which influenced egg laying, suggesting the existence of a fecundity compensation mechanism phenomenon. It was possible to conclude that both stressors - A. cantonensis infection and exposure to E. milii latex - directly influenced the survival and reproductive parameters of B. glabrata.

Effects of gibberellic acid concentration and fruit maturation stage on seed germination and vigor of pitahaya seedlings.

With increased interest in cultivation, the study of white-fleshed pitahaya (Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt, Cactaceae family) seedling production is of fundamental importance in the search for novel techniques to increase cultivation and guarantee homogeneous and productive orchards. The present study investigated the influence of various gibberellic acid (GA3) concentrations and fruit maturation stages on seed germination and vigor of white-fleshed pitahaya seedlings, considering the physiological quality of seedlings produced to support genetic breeding and conservation programs of the species. White-fleshed pitahaya seeds at two maturation stages (physiologically ripe and maintained at 10 °C in Biochemical Oxygen Demand incubators for three months) were treated with varying GA3 concentrations of 0, 50, 100, and 500 mg/L. We observed the influence of fruit storage on seedling germination, emergence, and growth as a function of GA3 concentration. According to the results, seeds extracted from ripe white-fleshed pitahaya fruits grown under the conditions tested here required GA3 application to increase seedling emergence and vigor, with optimal doses in the 150-300-mg/L range. In the case of pitahaya fruits intended for storage for future seed removal and maintained under the same sowing conditions, the application of higher doses of GA3 was necessary when compared to the previous condition, with a minimum dose of 500 mg/L GA3. The present study shows that the maturation stage of white-fleshed pitahaya fruits intended for seed removal influences the quality of seedlings; therefore, the use of seeds extracted from ripe pitahaya fruits without fermentation is more appropriate for the purpose.

Reproductive alterations of Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Chen, 1935) and exposed to Euphorbia milii var. hislopii latex / Alterações na atividade reprodutiva de Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) infectada com Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Chen, 1935) e exposta ao látex de Euphorbia milii var. hislopii

The natural phytochemical latex of Euphorbia milii var. hislopii is one of the most promising natural molluscicides for the control of Biomphalaria glabrata, and has been widely studied under laboratory conditions for selective control of schistosomiasis transmission. However, the effect of this product on B. glabrata infected by other helminths had not yet been investigated. The present study reports evaluation of the effect of E. milii var. hislopii latex on the survival and reproductive activity of B. glabrata infected by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. For this purpose, the following groups were formed: control (C), exposed (E), infected (I) and infected and exposed for different time intervals (1 day - I+E-1D, 7 days - I+E-7D, 14 days - I+E-14D, 21 days - I+E-21D and 28 days - I+E-28D). The experimental infection was performed with L1 larvae of A. cantonensis and exposure to 0.08 mg/L (LC50) of E. milii latex for a period of 24 hours. We analyzed the effects of E. milii latex on the survival of snails during four weeks, reproductive parameters and possible histophysiopathological changes in the gonad and albumen gland of the snails. Regarding survival, there was reduction of more than 50% in the groups exposed to latex (E and I + E) compared to the control group. As for the number of ovigerous masses, eggs, and average number of hatched snails, significant increases were observed in the I+E-1D group at the 4th week compared to the control group and the other weeks in the same group. Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae were observed in the gonad and albumen gland from day 21 and 28 of infection in groups I and I+E, respectively, with granuloma-like formation. At these observation periods and in these groups, an increase in galactogen was observed in the albumen gland, which influenced egg laying, suggesting the existence of a fecundity compensation mechanism phenomenon. It was possible to conclude that both stressors - A. cantonensis infection and exposure to E. milii latex - directly influenced the survival and reproductive parameters of B. glabrata.

O fitoquímico natural látex de Euphorbia milii var. hislopii é um dos mais promissores moluscicidas naturais para o controle de Biomphalaria glabrata, tendo sido amplamente estudado em condições laboratoriais como controle seletivo da transmissão da esquistossomose. No entanto, o efeito deste produto em B. glabrata infectada por outro helminto, ainda não tinha sido investigado. O presente trabalho tem por objetivo avaliar o efeito do látex de E. milii var. hislopii na sobrevivência e atividade reprodutiva de B. glabrata infectada por Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Para isso, foram formados os seguintes grupos: controle (C), exposto (E), infectado (I) e infectado e exposto em diferentes intervalos de tempo de infecção (1 dia - I+E-1D, 7 dias - I+E-7D, 14 dias - I+E-14D, 21 dias - I+E-21D e 28 dias - I+E-28D). A infecção experimental foi realizada com larvas L1 de A. cantonensis e a exposição com 0,08 mg/L (LC50) do látex de E. milii por um período de 24 horas. Foram analisados os efeitos do látex de E. milii quanto à sobrevivência dos moluscos ao longo de quatro semanas, aos parâmetros reprodutivos e as possíveis alterações histofisiopatológicas na gônada e na glândula de albúmen dos moluscos analisados. Em relação à sobrevivência foi possível observar redução de mais de 50% nos grupos expostos ao látex (E e I + E) em comparação ao grupo controle. Quanto ao número de massas ovígeras, ovos e número médio de moluscos eclodidos pode-se observar um aumento significativo no grupo I+E-1D na 4ª semana em comparação ao grupo controle e as demais semanas no mesmo grupo. Larvas de A. cantonensis foram observadas na glândula e na glândula de albúmen, a partir dos 21º dias e 28º dia de infecção nos grupos I e I+E, respectivamente, com a formação de granuloma-like. Nesses períodos de observação e nesses grupos pode-se observar na glândula de albúmen, um aumento do conteúdo de galactogênio, o que influenciou a postura dos ovos, sugerindo um fenômeno de compensação da fecundidade. Foi possível concluir que ambos agentes estressores, infecção por A. cantonensis e exposição ao látex de E. milii influenciou diretamente a sobrevivência e os parâmetros reprodutivos de B. glabrata.