Early ontogeny of the freshwater fish Rhytiodus microlepis (Characiformes, Anostomidae) from the Amazon basin.

The early development of the freshwater fish Rhytiodus microlepis is characterized by the description of external morphological, meristic, and morphometric changes, as well as the growth patterns, thereby establishing a reference for the identification of its larvae and juveniles. Specimens were collected from the Amazon river channel and floodplain. Ninety-seven individuals were analysed with standard length varying between 4.31 and 79.23 mm. Rhytiodus microlepis larvae are altricial, with an elongated and fusiform body, anal opening reaching the middle region of the body, and simple nostrils becoming double and tubular during development. The pigments vary from one to two chromatophores in the dorsal region of the head in pre-flexion and flexion, but later the pigmentation pattern intensifies, transverse bands appear along the body, and a conspicuous spot appears in the basal region of the caudal fin. The total number of myomeres ranges from 49 to 50. During the transition from larval (post-flexion) to the juvenile periods, the most significant anatomical changes occur, such as the presence of all fins and increased body pigmentation. Integrated myomere count and pigmentation pattern are effective for the correct identification of the initial life stages of R. microlepis from the Amazon basin. Our results expand the knowledge about the early life history of Neotropical freshwater fish species.

Temporal Analysis of COVID-19 Epidemiological Indicators in a Low-Income Brazilian Context: A Retrospective Analysis in Paraiba State.

Northeast Brazil is a region with great international tourist potential. Among the states that make up this region, Paraíba stands out due to the presence of vulnerable groups and factors that contribute to adverse outcomes of COVID-19. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological data on the incidence, mortality, and case fatality of COVID-19 in Paraíba. An ecological, population-based study was performed, with data extracted from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. All cases and deaths from COVID-19 from March 2020 to December 2022 were included. The time series was built by applying the Prais-Winsten regression model, and the daily percent change was calculated to analyze the trends. The highest case fatality of the entire period was in April 2020 (7.8%), but in March 2021, the state broke the dismal record of 1248 deaths and the highest mortality rate (30.5 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Stationary mortality and case fatality were better in 2022; however, in February 2022, the mortality rate was at levels similar to the same month of the previous year. These results illustrate that COVID-19 is evolving and needs to be constantly monitored.

Factors associated with unsatisfactory cosmetic results in oncoplastic surgery.

Introduction: Oncoplastic surgery (OS) has expanded the indications for breast-conserving surgery associated with an adequate aesthetic result. However, few studies have described the factors associated with unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes from this surgical modality. Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional prospective study that included patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery (BCS) with or without OS. The patients self-evaluated the cosmetic results of the breasts posttreatment and had them photographed. The photos were analyzed by BCCT.core. Individual and treatment factors (local and systemic) for all patients were evaluated. These factors were dichotomized according to the use of OS and to the cosmetic result (satisfactory and unsatisfactory). Categorical variables were tested for association with surgical outcome using the chi-square test while numerical variables using the Mann-Whitney U test. Variables with p <0,2 were selected for multivariate analysis. Results: Of the 300 patients evaluated, 72 (24,0%) underwent OS. According to the patient self-evaluations, an unsatisfactory cosmetic result from OS was significantly associated with younger age at diagnosis, higher body mass index (BMI) at the time of evaluation, larger tumor size and greater weight of the surgical specimen. According to the BCCT.core, only the laterality of the tumor (left) was significantly associated with an unsatisfactory cosmetic result. In logistic regression, considering OS as a control variable, the risk of an unsatisfactory outcome according to patient self-evaluation was related to the tumor ≥ T2 odds ratio (OR) 1,85 (1,027-3,34) and age at diagnosis < 40 [OR 5,0 (1,84-13,95)]. However, according to the software, the variables were associated with an increased risk of an unsatisfactory outcome were the time interval between surgery and evaluation [OR 1,27 (1,16-1,39)], the presence of lymphedema [OR 2,97 (1,36-6,46)], surgical wound infection [OR 3,6 (1,22-11,16)], tumor location on the left side [OR 3,06 (1,69-5,53)], overweight [OR 2,93 (1,48-5,8)] and obesity [OR 2,52 (1,2-5,31)]. Conclusion: There is no standard methodology for breast cosmesis evaluation, which influences the factors associated with unsatisfactory results. Younger patients and those with increased BMI, left breast cancer and extensive resections tend to present with unsatisfactory cosmetic results when OS is performed.

Insulin Sensitization by PPARγ and GLUT-4 Overexpression/Translocation Mediates the Antidiabetic Effect of Plantago australis.

Plantago australis Lam. Subsp. hirtella (Kunth) Rahn is a medicinal plant used as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, throat cancer treatment and for the control of diabetes. P. australis was collected in the state of Morelos, México. The hydroalcoholic extract (HAEPa) of P. australis was obtained by maceration and concentrated in vacuo. Once dry, it was evaluated through an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in normoglycemic mice and in a non-insulin-dependent diabetic mice model. The expression of PPARγ and GLUT-4 mRNA was determined by rt-PCR, and GLUT-4 translocation was confirmed by confocal microscopy. The toxicological studies were conducted in accordance with the guidelines suggested by the OECD, sections 423 and 407, with some modifications. HAEPa significantly decreased glycemia in OGTT curves, as well as in the experimental diabetes model compared to the vehicle group. In vitro tests showed that HAEPa induced an α-glucosidase inhibition and increased PPARγ and GLUT-4 expression in cell culture. The LD50 of HAEPa was greater than 2000 mg/kg, and sub-chronic toxicity studies revealed that 100 mg/kg/day for 28 days did not generate toxicity. Finally, LC-MS analysis led to the identification of verbascoside, caffeic acid and geniposidic acid, and phytochemical approaches allowed for the isolation of ursolic acid, which showed significant PPARγ overexpression and augmented GLUT-4 translocation. In conclusion, HAEPa induced significant antidiabetic action by insulin sensitization through PPARγ/GLUT-4 overexpression.

Early ontogeny of the commercially valuable fish red-bellied pacu Piaractus brachypomus (Characiformes, Serrasalmidae) from the Amazon, Brazil.

The initial development of the red-bellied pacu Piaractus brachypomus is described using morphological, meristic and morphometric characteristics. A total of 127 individuals were analysed (47 in the yolk-sac, 35 in pre-flexion, five in flexion, 20 in post-flexion and 20 in juvenile) with standard length varying between 2.92 and 48.61 mm. The larvae are born poorly developed and have a discoidal yolk at ~6.33 mm standard length. During early ontogeny, the mouth passes from terminal to subterminal and the anal opening reaches the vertical line over the midline region of the body. There are changes in body shape from long and moderate to deep, head length from small to large, and eye diameter from moderate to large. Dendritic chromatophores were present in the ventral, dorsal and upper part of the swim bladder in the early larval stages. Rounded spots are evident all over the body in juveniles. The total number of myomeres ranges from 39 to 41 (20-23 pre-anal, 17-20 post-anal). Through the morphometric relationships, it was evidenced that the greatest changes during the initial ontogeny of P. brachypomus occur in the transition from the post-flexion stage to the juvenile period, indicating changes in behaviour, foraging and physiology.

Validation of an Enzyme Immunoassay to Measure Faecal Glucocorticoid Metabolites in Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) to Evaluate Responses to Rehabilitation.

Volunteer wildlife rehabilitators rescue and rehabilitate thousands of native animals every year in Australia. However, there is little known about how exposure to novel stimuli during rehabilitation could affect the physiology of wildlife. We investigated this question in a species that commonly enters rehabilitation, the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). We evaluated five enzyme immunoassays (EIA) to determine the most suitable for measuring faecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGM) as a proxy for evaluating the response of brushtail possums to potential stressors during rehabilitation. An adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH) challenge was conducted on wild-caught possums to determine the best-performing EIA based on the successful detection of FGM peaks in at least two of three possums. While a number of assays met these criteria, the 11-oxoaetiocholanolone (abbreviation: 72a) EIA was selected as it had the largest amplitude of change in response to the ACTH challenge. This assay was then used to measure FGM concentrations in 20 possums during rehabilitation. There was high variation in baseline FGM concentrations and response to captivity between possums. Significant changes in FGM levels were detected in most possums during captivity, but were not reliably associated with potentially stressful events that were identified by rehabilitators. The probability of an FGM peak occurring within five days of a potentially stressful event was about 50%, regardless of the type of event. Our study has demonstrated that injured and orphaned possums show changes in FGMs during captivity and rehabilitation and has identified events that can induce a physiological response in some individuals. We recommend that research now focus on the relationship between these responses during rehabilitation and pre- and post-release survival.

Mouse Subcutaneous BCG Vaccination and Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection Alter the Lung and Gut Microbiota.

The objective of this study was to characterize the effect of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination and M. tuberculosis infection on gut and lung microbiota of C57BL/6 mice, a well-characterized mouse model of tuberculosis. BCG vaccination and infection with M. tuberculosis altered the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla in the lung compared with control group. Vaccination and infection changed the alpha- and beta-diversity in both the gut and the lung. However, lung diversity was the most affected organ after BCG vaccination and M. tuberculosis infection. Focusing on the gut-lung axis, a multivariate regression approach was used to compare profile evolution of gut and lung microbiota. More genera have modified relative abundances associated with BCG vaccination status at gut level compared with lung. Conversely, genera with modified relative abundances associated with M. tuberculosis infection were numerous at lung level. These results indicated that the host local response against infection impacted the whole microbial flora, while the immune response after vaccination modified mainly the gut microbiota. This study showed that a subcutaneous vaccination with a live attenuated microorganism induced both gut and lung dysbiosis that may play a key role in the immunopathogenesis of tuberculosis. IMPORTANCE The microbial communities in gut and lung are important players that may modulate the immunity against tuberculosis or other infections as well as impact the vaccine efficacy. We discovered that vaccination through the subcutaneous route affect the composition of gut and lung bacteria, and this might influence susceptibility and defense mechanisms against tuberculosis. Through these studies, we can identify microbial communities that can be manipulated to improve vaccine response and develop treatment adjuvants.

Relação da Função Pulmonar e da Força Inspiratória com Capacidade Aeróbica e com Prognóstico na Insuficiência Cardíaca / Relationship of Lung Function and Inspiratory Strength with Exercise Capacity and Prognosis in Heart Failure

Resumo Fundamento A espirometria é subutilizada na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e não está claro o grau de associação de cada defeito com a capacidade de exercício e com o prognóstico desses pacientes. Objetivo Determinar a relação da %CVF prevista (ppCVF) e do VEF1/CVF contínuos com: 1) pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx), fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) e desempenho ao exercício; e 2) prognóstico, para o desfecho composto de morte cardiovascular, transplante cardíaco ou implante de dispositivo de assistência ventricular. Métodos Coorte de 111 participantes com IC (estágios AHA C/D) sem pneumopatia; foram submetidos a espirometria, manovacuometria e teste cardiopulmonar máximo. As magnitudes de associação foram verificadas por regressões lineares e de Cox (HR; IC 95%), ajustadas para idade/sexo, e p <0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados Com idade média 57±12 anos, 60% eram homens, 64% em NYHAIII. A cada aumento de 10% no VEF1/CVF [β 7% (IC 95%: 3-10)] e no ppCVF [4% (2-6)], foi associado à reserva ventilatória (VRes); no entanto, apenas o ppCVF associado à PImáx [3,8cmH2O (0,3-7,3)], à fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) [2,1% (0,5-3,8)] e ao VO2 pico [0,5mL/kg/min (0,1-1,0)], considerando idade/sexo. Em 2,2 anos (média), ocorreram 22 eventos; tanto FEV1/FVC (HR 1,44; IC 95%: 0,97-2,13) quanto ppCVF (HR 1,13; 0,89-1,43) não foram associados ao desfecho. Apenas no subgrupo FEVE ≤50% (n=87, 20 eventos), VEF1/CVF (HR 1,50; 1,01-2,23), mas não ppCVF, foi associado a risco. Conclusão Na IC crônica, ppCVF reduzido associou-se a menor PImáx, FEVE, VRes e VO2 pico, mas não distinguiu pior prognóstico em 2,2 anos de acompanhamento. Entretanto, VEF1/CVF associou-se apenas com VRes, e, em participantes com FEVE ≤50%, o VEF1/CVF reduzido mostrou pior prognóstico proporcional. Portanto, VEF1/CVF e ppFVC contribuem para melhor fenotipagem de pacientes com IC.

Abstract Background Spirometry is underused in heart failure (HF) and the extent to which each defect associates with exercise capacity and prognosis is unclear. Objective To determine the distinct relationship of continuous %predicted FVC (ppFVC) and FEV1/FVC with: 1) maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), exercise performance; and 2) prognosis for the composite of cardiovascular death, heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device implant. Methods A cohort of 111 HF participants (AHA stages C/D) without diagnosed pneumopathy, spirometry, manovacuometry and maximum cardiopulmonary test. The association magnitudes were verified by linear and Cox (HR; 95% CI) regressions, age/sex adjusted. A p<0.05 was considered significant. Results Age was 57±12 years, 60% men, 64% in NYHA III. Every 10%-point increase in FEV1/FVC [β 7% (95% CI: 3-10)] and ppFVC [4% (2-6)] associated with ventilatory reserve (VRes), however only ppFVC associated with MIP [3.8 cmH2O (0.3-7.3)], LVEF [2.1% (0.5-3.8)] and VO2peak [0.5 mL/kg/min (0.1-1.0)], accounting for age/sex. In 2.2 years (mean), 22 events occurred, and neither FEV1/FVC (HR 1.44; 95% CI: 0.97-2.13) nor ppFVC (HR 1.13; 0.89-1.43) was significantly associated with the outcome. Only in the LVEF ≤50% subgroup (n=87, 20 events), FEV1/FVC (HR 1.50; 1.01-2.23), but not ppFVC, was associated with greater risk. Conclusions In chronic HF, reduced ppFVC associated with lower MIP, LVEF, VRes and VO2peak, but no distinct poorer prognosis over 2.2 years of follow-up. Distinctively, FEV1/FVC was associated only with VRes, and, in participants with LVEF ≤50%, FEV1/FVC reduction proportionally worsened prognosis. Therefore, FEV1/FVC and ppFVC add supplementary information regarding HF phenotyping.

Flavonoids, anthocyanins, betalains, curcumin, and carotenoids: Sources, classification and enhanced stabilization by encapsulation and adsorption.

Bioactive compounds have remarkable biological activities for health, nutrition, and food preservation. However, these compounds are chemically unstable maily when exposure at high temperatures, light, and humidity. Several stabilization techniques have been used to protect these compounds, expanding their application range. Therefore, this review aims to show the main bioactive compounds currently studied and the use of stabilization techniques, such as encapsulation and adsorption, for food application. A broader systematic classification of bioactive compounds based on phenolic and non-phenolic sub-levels was suggested, which can assist in a deeper discussion of results, including the correlation of biological activities, their synergistic effects, and their enhanced stabilization on materials that promote a well-controlled delivery (higher bioavailability). Research on Scopus Database was used to identify the scientific trends for stabilization methods (2016-2020). This review article focused on analyzing bioactive encapsulation using cold processing techniques such as ionic gelation, emulsification, complex coacervation, and adsorption to expand production and application in the food sector.

Relationship of Lung Function and Inspiratory Strength with Exercise Capacity and Prognosis in Heart Failure. / Relação da Função Pulmonar e da Força Inspiratória com Capacidade Aeróbica e com Prognóstico na Insuficiência Cardíaca.

BACKGROUND: Spirometry is underused in heart failure (HF) and the extent to which each defect associates with exercise capacity and prognosis is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To determine the distinct relationship of continuous %predicted FVC (ppFVC) and FEV1/FVC with: 1) maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), exercise performance; and 2) prognosis for the composite of cardiovascular death, heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device implant. METHODS: A cohort of 111 HF participants (AHA stages C/D) without diagnosed pneumopathy, spirometry, manovacuometry and maximum cardiopulmonary test. The association magnitudes were verified by linear and Cox (HR; 95% CI) regressions, age/sex adjusted. A p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Age was 57±12 years, 60% men, 64% in NYHA III. Every 10%-point increase in FEV1/FVC [ß 7% (95% CI: 3-10)] and ppFVC [4% (2-6)] associated with ventilatory reserve (VRes), however only ppFVC associated with MIP [3.8 cmH2O (0.3-7.3)], LVEF [2.1% (0.5-3.8)] and VO2peak [0.5 mL/kg/min (0.1-1.0)], accounting for age/sex. In 2.2 years (mean), 22 events occurred, and neither FEV1/FVC (HR 1.44; 95% CI: 0.97-2.13) nor ppFVC (HR 1.13; 0.89-1.43) was significantly associated with the outcome. Only in the LVEF ≤50% subgroup (n=87, 20 events), FEV1/FVC (HR 1.50; 1.01-2.23), but not ppFVC, was associated with greater risk. CONCLUSIONS: In chronic HF, reduced ppFVC associated with lower MIP, LVEF, VRes and VO2peak, but no distinct poorer prognosis over 2.2 years of follow-up. Distinctively, FEV1/FVC was associated only with VRes, and, in participants with LVEF ≤50%, FEV1/FVC reduction proportionally worsened prognosis. Therefore, FEV1/FVC and ppFVC add supplementary information regarding HF phenotyping.

FUNDAMENTO: A espirometria é subutilizada na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e não está claro o grau de associação de cada defeito com a capacidade de exercício e com o prognóstico desses pacientes. OBJETIVO: Determinar a relação da %CVF prevista (ppCVF) e do VEF1/CVF contínuos com: 1) pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx), fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) e desempenho ao exercício; e 2) prognóstico, para o desfecho composto de morte cardiovascular, transplante cardíaco ou implante de dispositivo de assistência ventricular. MÉTODOS: Coorte de 111 participantes com IC (estágios AHA C/D) sem pneumopatia; foram submetidos a espirometria, manovacuometria e teste cardiopulmonar máximo. As magnitudes de associação foram verificadas por regressões lineares e de Cox (HR; IC 95%), ajustadas para idade/sexo, e p <0,05 foi considerado significativo. RESULTADOS: Com idade média 57±12 anos, 60% eram homens, 64% em NYHAIII. A cada aumento de 10% no VEF1/CVF [ß 7% (IC 95%: 3-10)] e no ppCVF [4% (2-6)], foi associado à reserva ventilatória (VRes); no entanto, apenas o ppCVF associado à PImáx [3,8cmH2O (0,3-7,3)], à fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) [2,1% (0,5-3,8)] e ao VO2 pico [0,5mL/kg/min (0,1-1,0)], considerando idade/sexo. Em 2,2 anos (média), ocorreram 22 eventos; tanto FEV1/FVC (HR 1,44; IC 95%: 0,97-2,13) quanto ppCVF (HR 1,13; 0,89-1,43) não foram associados ao desfecho. Apenas no subgrupo FEVE ≤50% (n=87, 20 eventos), VEF1/CVF (HR 1,50; 1,01-2,23), mas não ppCVF, foi associado a risco. CONCLUSÃO: Na IC crônica, ppCVF reduzido associou-se a menor PImáx, FEVE, VRes e VO2 pico, mas não distinguiu pior prognóstico em 2,2 anos de acompanhamento. Entretanto, VEF1/CVF associou-se apenas com VRes, e, em participantes com FEVE ≤50%, o VEF1/CVF reduzido mostrou pior prognóstico proporcional. Portanto, VEF1/CVF e ppFVC contribuem para melhor fenotipagem de pacientes com IC.

Extracts and purified substances of Cabralea canjerana inhibit hatching and extracts of Schinus terebinthifolius kill juveniles of meloidogyne incognita

Nematicidal substances have been identified from plants and are potentially useful for the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Cabralea canjerana, (Meliaceae) and Schinus terebinthifolius (Anacardiaceae) produce bioactive compounds during their secondary metabolism and little is known about the effect of such substances on plant-parasitic nematodes. In the present study, we assessed the effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of C. canjerana and S. terebinthifolius at 1% (m:v) and purified substances from C. canjerana (gedunin, ocotillone, cabraleadiol, a mixture of ocotillone + cabraleadiol and a mixture of shoreic acid + eichlerianic acid) on hatching and mortality of Meloidogyne incognita juveniles. Aqueous extracts of C. canjerana fruits and seeds reduced hatching by 70.3 to 95.7%. Aqueous extracts of S. terebinthifolius fruits killed 42.8 to 77.1% of juveniles. The purified substances of C. canjerana inhibited the hatching of M. incognita from 57 to 90% and did not increase the mortality of juveniles. Therefore, C. canjerana extracts and its purified substances reduce M. incognita hatching and aqueous extracts of S. terebinthifolius kill J2 of this nematode.

Synthesis, In Vitro, In Vivo and In Silico Antidiabetic Bioassays of 4-Nitro(thio)phenoxyisobutyric Acids Acting as Unexpected PPARγ Modulators: An In Combo Study.

Four isobutyric acids (two nitro and two acetamido derivatives) were prepared in two steps and characterized using spectral analysis. The mRNA concentrations of PPARγ and GLUT-4 (two proteins documented as key diabetes targets) were increased by 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated with compounds 1-4, but an absence of in vitro expression of PPARα was observed. Docking and molecular dynamics studies revealed the plausible interaction between the synthesized compounds and PPARγ. In vivo studies established that compounds 1-4 have antihyperglycemic modes of action associated with insulin sensitization. Nitrocompound 2 was the most promising of the series, being orally active, and one of multiple modes of action could be selective PPARγ modulation due to its extra anchoring with Gln-286. In conclusion, we demonstrated that nitrocompound 2 showed strong in vitro and in vivo effects and can be considered as an experimental antidiabetic candidate.

Early development of two commercially valuable fish from the lower Amazon River, Brazil (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae)

We described the early development of Myloplus asterias and M. lobatus, two fish species of the Serrasalmidae using morphological, meristic, and morphometric characteristics. These herbivores serrasalmids are heavily fished because of their commercial importance in the Amazon. The individuals were collected between 2016 and 2020 in the limnetic zone of open water and macrophyte stands in the Lower Amazon River floodplain. We tested different growth models to identify the development pattern of these species. During the initial ontogeny, these two species can be differentiated mainly by the myomeres total number, 37 to 39 in M. asterias vs. 40 to 41 in M. lobatus, the pigmentation pattern, and dorsal-fin ray numbers. These characteristics are effective in distinguishing these species from other serrasalmids. The morphometric relationships were also different between these two species, showing distinct patterns in growth between the analyzed features. An identification key for larvae of some sympatric Serrasalmidae species from the Amazon basin is presented. Our expectation is that this study will contribute to the knowledge of the initial ontogeny and the biology of fish species in the Neotropical region.(AU)

Descrevemos o desenvolvimento inicial de Myloplus asterias e M. lobatus, duas espécies de peixes da família Serrasalmidae usando características morfológicas, merísticas e morfométricas. Esses serrasalmídeos herbívoros são fortemente pescados devido à sua importância comercial na Amazônia. Os indivíduos foram coletados entre 2016 e 2020 na zona limnética de águas abertas e em bancos de macrófitas na planície de inundação do baixo rio Amazonas. Testamos diferentes modelos de crescimento para identificar o padrão de desenvolvimento dessas espécies. Durante a ontogenia inicial, essas duas espécies podem ser diferenciadas pelo número total de miômeros; 37 a 39 em M. asterias vs. 40 a 41 em M. lobatus; pelo padrão de pigmentação e número de raios da nadadeira dorsal. Essas características são eficazes para distinguir essas espécies de outros serrasalmídeos. As relações morfométricas também foram diferentes entre as duas espécies, com distintos padrões de crescimento entre as características analisadas. Uma chave de identificação para larvas de algumas espécies simpátricas de Serrasalmidae da bacia amazônica é apresentada. Nossa expectativa é que este estudo contribua para o conhecimento da ontogenia inicial e da biologia das espécies de peixes da região Neotropical.(AU)

Normative values and reference equation for the six-minute step test to evaluate functional exercise capacity: a multicenter study / Valores normativos e equação de referência para o teste do degrau de seis minutos para avaliar a capacidade funcional de exercício: um estudo multicêntrico

ABSTRACT Objective: To establish normative values and a reference equation for the number of steps climbed during the six-minute step test (6MST) in healthy adults, and to assess the reliability of the test and of the equation. Methods: This was a multicenter cross-sectional study involving 468 healthy volunteers (age range: 18-79 years) recruited from the general community in six research laboratories across different regions of Brazil, which is a country with continental dimensions. The 6MST was performed twice (30-min interval), and clinical, demographic, and functional variables were evaluated. An independent sample of 24 volunteers was evaluated to test the reference equation a posteriori. Results: The number of steps had excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.96 [95%CI: 0.95-0.97]), and the mean number of steps was 175 ± 45, the number being 14% greater in males than in females. The best performance on the test was correlated with age (r = −0.60), sex (r = 0.28), weight (r = 0.13), height (r = 0.41), BMI (r = −0.22), waist circumference (r = −0.22), thigh circumference (r = 0.15), FVC (r = 0.54), and physical activity level (r = 0.17; p < 0.05 for all). In the regression analysis, age, sex, height, and weight explained 42% of the variability of the 6MST. Normative values were established for the 6MST according to age and sex. There was no difference between the 6MST values from the independent sample and its predicted values (157 ± 29 steps vs. 161 ± 25 steps; p = 0.47; 97% of predicted values). Conclusions: The normative values and the reference equation for the 6MST in this study seem adequate to accurately predict the physical functional performance in adults in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estabelecer valores normativos e uma equação de referência para o número de degraus subidos no teste do degrau de seis minutos (TD6) em adultos saudáveis, bem como avaliar a confiabilidade do teste e da equação. Métodos: Estudo transversal multicêntrico com 468 voluntários saudáveis (faixa etária: 18-79 anos) recrutados na comunidade geral em seis laboratórios de pesquisa em diferentes regiões do Brasil, um país de dimensões continentais. O TD6 foi realizado duas vezes (com 30 min de intervalo entre uma e outra), e foram avaliadas variáveis clínicas, demográficas e funcionais. Uma amostra independente composta por 24 voluntários foi avaliada para testar a equação de referência a posteriori. Resultados: O número de degraus subidos apresentou excelente confiabilidade teste-reteste [coeficiente de correlação intraclasse = 0,96 (IC95%: 0,95-0,97)], e a média de degraus subidos foi de 175 ± 45, sendo 14% maior no sexo masculino. O melhor desempenho no teste correlacionou-se com as seguintes variáveis: idade (r = −0,60), sexo (r = 0,28), peso (r = 0,13), estatura (r = 0,41), IMC (r = −0,22), circunferência da cintura (r = −0,22), circunferência da coxa (r = 0,15), CVF (r = 0,54) e nível de atividade física (r = 0,17; p < 0,05 para todos). Na análise de regressão, idade, sexo, estatura e peso explicaram 42% da variabilidade do TD6. Foram estabelecidos valores normativos para o TD6 de acordo com a idade e o sexo. Não houve diferença entre os valores do TD6 na amostra independente e os valores previstos (157 ± 29 vs. 161 ± 25 degraus subidos; p = 0,47; 97% dos valores previstos). Conclusões: Os valores normativos e a equação de referência para o TD6 neste estudo parecem adequados para predizer com precisão o desempenho físico funcional em adultos no Brasil.

Larval development of the freshwater croaker Pachypops fourcroi (La Cépède 1802) (Perciformes: Sciaenidae).

The larval development of Pachypops fourcroi from the lower Amazon River was described through morphological, meristic and morphometric features. Sixty-five larvae were examined and present a moderate body, slightly elliptical eyes and head ranging from moderate to large. The mouth is initially terminal and becomes subterminal throughout development with three barbels in the mentonian region. The larvae of P. fourcroi can be differentiated from other Sciaenidae in the Amazon basin by the pigmentation pattern, the presence of barbels, head depth, body depth and diameter, and shape of the eye.

Kangaroos at maximum capacity: health assessment of free-ranging eastern grey kangaroos on a coastal headland.

Sprawling urban development is fragmenting the landscape and native wildlife habitats on the Australian east coast. The impact of this rapid urbanization on wildlife health is largely unknown. This study surveyed the health of a high-density (5.4 individuals per ha) population of eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) affected by urban encroachment and prolonged drought. Blood parameters (hematological and serum protein), trace element and heavy metal concentrations, and parasite counts (fecal worm egg counts, ticks, and mites) are reported for a sample of ≤ 54 kangaroos at Look at Me Now Headland, New South Wales, Australia. These parameters were compared to lower density kangaroo populations from other sites in New South Wales. We found the health and welfare of this population to be severely compromised, with nonregenerative anemia and nutritional deficiencies evident. Our results indicate that high-density kangaroo populations isolated by urban encroachment are at significant health risk. To prevent further decline in this population's health, we discuss management strategies that could be employed, concurrent with ongoing health and disease monitoring, to mitigate the poor health outcomes in this population. We conclude that it is essential to retain habitat connectivity when altering land use in areas with resident kangaroo populations if managers are to maintain healthy populations.

Oncoplastic Surgery in Breast-Conserving Treatment: Patient Profile and Impact on Quality of Life.

BACKGROUND: Breast-conserving treatment (BCT) provides better quality of life (QL) than mastectomy without reconstruction. Oncoplastic surgery (OS) encompasses a series of surgical techniques, increasing the indications for BCT, but few studies have evaluated the impact on QL in patients who undergo BCT with OS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in women who underwent BCT. We evaluated the characteristics of patients who underwent BCT with and without OS and the associated QL. QL was assessed through the EORTC QLQ-30, EORTC QLQ-BR23, and Breast Cancer Treatment Outcome Scale (BCTOS) questionnaires. RESULTS: A total of 300 patients underwent BCT, 72 underwent breast OS, and 37 underwent bilateral surgery. Patients who underwent OS were younger (p = 0.004), had a higher level of education (p = 0.01), had a smaller time interval since the end of treatment (p = 0.02), had tumours with greater dimensions (p = 0.003), and were more likely to receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.05). Based on the QL questionnaires, no difference was observed between the groups. Breast symmetry was not associated with high patient satisfaction (p = 0.55). CONCLUSION: Despite the fact that OS was performed in patients with worse tumour conditions and in more demanding patients, OS allowed similar cosmetic results to classical BCT.

New criteria for breast symmetry evaluation after breast conserving surgery for cancer.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate symmetry after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for cancer. METHODS: a prospective study of patients undergoing BCS. These patients were photographed using the same criteria of evaluation. The references points used were the nipple height difference (NH), the nipple-manubrium distances (NM), nipple-sternum distances (NS) and the angle between the intramammary fold and the nipple (nipple angle; NA). ImageJ software was used. Three breast symmetry models were evaluated: excellent/others (model 1), excellent-good/others (model 2) and others/poor (model 3). The ROC curve was used to select acceptable criteria for the evaluation of symmetry. Decision tree model analysis was performed. RESULTS: a total of 274 women were evaluated. The BCCT.core result was excellent in 5.8% (16), good in 24.1% (66), fair in 46.4% (127) and poor in 23.7% (65). The difference in NH was associated with good breast area (0.837-0.846); acceptable differences were below 3.1 cm, while unacceptable values were greater than 6.4 cm. Differences in the NM were associated with average breast area (0.709-0.789); a difference in value of less than 4.5 cm was acceptable, while values greater than 6.3 cm were unacceptable. In the decision tree combined model, a good-excellent outcome for patients with differential (d) dNH = 1 (0 to 5.30 cm) and dNM ≠ 3 (<6.28 cm); and for a poor/poor result, values dNM = 3 (> 6.35). CONCLUSIONS: the results presented here are simple tools that can assist the surgeon for breast symmetry evaluation.

Geographical information system and spatial-temporal statistics for monitoring infectious agents in hospital: a model using Klebsiella pneumoniae complex.

BACKGROUND: The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance and infectious agents have challenged hospitals in recent decades. Our aim was to investigate the circulation of target infectious agents using Geographic Information System (GIS) and spatial-temporal statistics to improve surveillance and control of healthcare-associated infection and of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), using Klebsiella pneumoniae complex as a model. METHODS: A retrospective study carried out in a 450-bed federal, tertiary hospital, located in Rio de Janeiro. All isolates of K. pneumoniae complex from clinical and surveillance cultures of hospitalized patients between 2014 and 2016, identified by the use of Vitek-2 system (BioMérieux), were extracted from the hospital's microbiology laboratory database. A basic scaled map of the hospital's physical structure was created in AutoCAD and converted to QGis software (version 2.18). Thereafter, bacteria according to resistance profiles and patients with carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKp) complex were georeferenced by intensive and nonintensive care wards. Space-time permutation probability scan tests were used for cluster signals detection. RESULTS: Of the total 759 studied isolates, a significant increase in the resistance profile of K. pneumoniae complex was detected during the studied years. We also identified two space-time clusters affecting adult and paediatric patients harbouring CRKp complex on different floors, unnoticed by regular antimicrobial resistance surveillance. CONCLUSIONS: In-hospital GIS with space-time statistical analysis can be applied in hospitals. This spatial methodology has the potential to expand and facilitate early detection of hospital outbreaks and may become a new tool in combating AMR or hospital-acquired infection.