Injury Risk Estimation in Mandible-Related Surgical Procedures: A CBCT Study Based on Vital Interforaminal Anatomical Structures.

The mandibular interforaminal region has been considered safe for surgical procedures; nevertheless, the risk of injury to neurovascular structures, such as the mental foramen (MF) and its related structures (anterior loop [AL] and lingual foramina [LF]) should not be overlooked. The study aimed to evaluate the relative risk of injury to these structures during surgical procedures in the anterior region of the mandible based on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. A retrospective cross-sectional and observational study was performed on 250 CBCTs from adults (18-69 years) with dentate jaws. Linear measurements of the MF, AL, and LF were evaluated to estimate the risk of injury to these structures during chin-related surgical procedures. The most frequent distance between the base of the mandible (BM) and MF was 8 mm (30.2%). In addition, 20.4% of the CTs had 6 mm from the vestibular cortical bone to the LF. The commonly found measurement from LF to the apex of the nearest tooth was 7 mm (24.0%); 64.2% of the CTs showed a 2-mm distance between the most distal point of the dental implant site to the most anterior point of the AL. Safety distances for genioplasty techniques (MF to mandible base > 6 mm, 96.6% [CI 95%, 95.0%-98.2%]) were observed. Considering the 5-mm cut-off point between the lower limit of a hypothetical bone graft and the chin, 65.4% (CI 95%, 58.9%-71.9%) of CTs were within this distance. Regarding the safety margin of 8 mm, 85.6% (CI 95%, 80.8%-90.4%) were up to this value. This study found safety margins for genioplasty and chin bone grafting surgical techniques that adopt a 5-mm cut-off point. Further similar studies assessing other surgical methods and employing larger samples from different geographical origins may contribute to this field of investigation.

Salivary spectral signature using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy in different exercise protocols.

The Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) has been applied to determine salivary biomarkers with high sensitivity and cost-effectiveness. Our study aimed to test the hypothesis that the spectral profile of saliva demonstrates distinct vibrational modes corresponding to different exercise protocols, thereby facilitating exercise monitoring. Saliva samples were collected from trained male subjects at three intervals: pre-exercise, post-exercise, and 3 h post-exercise. The protocols included acute sessions of continuous exercise (CE), high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), and resistance exercise (RE). ATR-FTIR analysis revealed that salivary biochemical components changed uniquely with each exercise protocol. Specific spectral vibrational modes were identified as potential biomarkers for each exercise type. Notably, the salivary spectrum pattern of CE closely resembled that of HIIE, whereas RE showed minor alterations. Furthermore, we attempted to apply an algorithm capable of distinguishing the spectral range that differentiates the exercise modalities. This pioneering study is the first to compare changes in saliva spectra following different exercise protocols and to suggest spectrum peaks of vibrational modes as markers for specific types of exercises. We emphasize that the spectral wavenumbers identified by FTIR could serve as practical markers in distinguishing between different exercise modalities, with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy correlating with the metabolic changes induced by exercise. Therefore, this study contributes a panel of ATR-FTIR spectral wavenumbers that can be referenced as a spectral signature capable of distinguishing between resistance and endurance exercises.

Chronic exposure to 2,2'-azobis-2-amidinopropane that induces intestinal damage and oxidative stress in larvae of Drosophila melanogaster.

Embryonic development is exceptionally susceptible to pathogenic, chemistry and mechanical stressors as they can disrupt homeostasis, causing damage and impacted viability. Oxidative stress has the capacity to induce alterations and reshape the environment. However, the specific impacts of these oxidative stress-induced damages in the gastrointestinal tract of Drosophila melanogaster larvae have been minimally explored. This study used 2,2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH), a free radical generator, to investigate oxidative stress effects on Drosophila embryo development. The results showed that exposing Drosophila eggs to 30 mM AAPH during 1st instar larva, 2nd instar larva and 3rd instar larva stages significantly reduced hatching rates and pupal generation. It increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and increased oxidative damage to proteins and MDA content, indicating severe oxidative stress. Morphological changes in 3rd individuals included decreased brush borders in enterocytes and reduced lipid vacuoles in trophocytes, essential fat bodies for insect metabolism. Immunostaining revealed elevated cleaved caspase 3, an apoptosis marker. This evidence validates the impact of oxidative stress toxicity and cell apoptosis following exposure, offering insights into comprehending the chemically induced effects of oxidative stress by AAPH on animal development.

Embarazo en adolescentes en el Servicio de Maternidad del Hospital Regional de Pedro Juan Caballero entre diciembre de 2021 a noviembre de 2022 / Pregnancy in adolescents at the maternity service of the Pedro Juan Caballero Regional Hospital between December 2021 and November 2022

Introducción. La adolescencia es un periodo de desarrollo biopsicosocial que va desde los 10 a 19 años, el embarazo entre estas edades supone una preocupación para la salud pública por todo lo que conlleva. Objetivo. Conocer la frecuencia y características clínico-epidemiológicas de gestantes adolescentes atendidas en el servicio de maternidad del Hospital Regional de Pedro Juan Caballero entre diciembre del 2021 a noviembre del 2022 Materiales y Método. Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo de corte transversal, muestreo por conveniencia de adolescentes atendidas en el servicio de ginecología del Hospital Regional de Pedro Juan Caballero en el periodo diciembre 2021 a noviembre del 2022.Resultados. De 1615 puérperas, el 20% (n=317) fueron adolescentes, 26% de ellas tenían 19 años, 78,5% en unión libre, 38,2% tenía por lo menos 5 controles prenatales. En los antecedentes gineco obstétricos el 81% eran nulíparas. El peso de los 317 niños fue 2501 a 4000 gramos en un 83%y en puntaje APGAR 98,7% presentó un puntaje de 7-10; 82% nació entre 37-42 semanas y 50,3% fueron varones. La vía de parto más común fue la vaginal con 73% y de presentación cefálica en un 97%. Conclusión. La frecuencia de gestantes adolescentes representa una quinta parte del total de gestantes atendidas, más de dos tercios nacieron con peso adecuado, en su mayoría un APGAR de 7-10 a los 5 minutos y la vía por la cual nacieron en su mayoría fue la vaginal, en presentación cefálica. Palabras clave: gestante; adolescentes; parto

Introduction. Adolescence is a period of biopsychosocial development that goes from 10 to 19 years old. Pregnancy between these ages is a concern for public health due to everything it entails. Objetive.to know the frequency of teenage pregnant women treated in the maternity service of the Pedro Juan Caballero Regional Hospital in the period from December 2021 to November 2022.Material and Method. Descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional, convenience sampling of adolescents treated in the Gynecology service of the Pedro Juan Caballero Regional Hospital in the period December 2021 to November 2022. Results.20% of the total pregnant women attended were adolescents, 26% of the adolescents were 19 years old, marital status, common-law union 74.5%. 38.2% had at least 5 prenatal checkups. In the Obstetric Gynecological History, 81% were nulliparous. The weight of the 317 children was 2501 to 4000 grams in 83% and in the APGAR score 98.7% had a score of 7-10;82% were born between 37-42 weeks and 50.3% were boys. The most common route of delivery was vaginal with 73% and cephalic presentation in 97%. Conclusion.The frequency of pregnant adolescents represents a fifth of the total pregnant women attended, morethan two thirds were born with adequate weight, mostly an APGAR of 7-10 at 5 minutes and the route by which they were mostly born was vaginal, in cephalic presentation. Key words: pregnant woman; adolescents; childbirth

Effects of an L-Leucine-Rich Diet on Liver and Kidneys in a Doxorubicin Toxicity Model.

Supplements and diets containing L-leucine, a branched-chain amino acid, have been considered beneficial for controlling oxidative stress and maintaining cardiac tissue in toxicity models using doxorubicin, a drug widely used in cancer treatment. However, there is a lack of studies in the literature that assess the effects of this diet on other organs and tissues, such as the liver and kidneys. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a leucine-rich diet on the liver and kidneys of healthy rats submitted to the doxorubicin toxicity model by analyzing biomarkers of oxidative stress and histological parameters. The animals were divided into four groups: naive, doxorubicin, L-leucine, and doxorubicin + L-leucine, and the diet was standardized with 5% L-leucine and a dose of 7.5 mg/kg of doxorubicin. We evaluated tissue injury parameters and biomarkers of oxidative stress, including enzymes, antioxidant profile, and oxidized molecules, in the liver and kidneys. Although some studies have indicated benefits of a diet rich in L-leucine for the muscle tissue of animals that received doxorubicin, our results showed that the liver was the most affected organ by the L-leucine-rich diet since the diet reduced its antioxidant defenses and increased the deposit of collagen and fat in the hepatic tissue. In the kidneys, the main alteration was the reduction in the number of glomeruli. These results contribute to the scientific literature and encourage further studies to evaluate the effects of an L-leucine-rich diet or its supplementation, alone or combined with doxorubicin using an animal model of cancer. Therefore, our study concludes that the leucine-rich diet itself was harmful and, when co-administered with doxorubicin, was not able to maintain the antioxidant defenses and tissue structure of the evaluated organs.

Drosophila melanogaster as a model for studies related to the toxicity of lavender, ginger and copaiba essential oils.

This study addresses the current trend of essential oils in alternative medicine using the non-chordate model Drosophila melanogaster. Following the three R's principles, it proposes non-chordate models to fill knowledge gaps on essential oil toxicity. Copaiba, lavender, and ginger essential oils are evaluated for effects on D. melanogaster lifespan, climbing ability, and brain structure, while their anti-inflammatory properties are also analyzed. Results show dose-related differences: higher concentrations (0.25% v/v) cause brain deterioration and impaired climbing, while lower concentrations (0.0625% v/v for copaiba and ginger; 0.125% for lavender) have no effect on climbing or brain structure. Lavender oil significantly extends lifespan and maintains anti-inflammatory activity when ingested, underscoring its therapeutic potential. These findings highlight the importance of D. melanogaster as a model for studying essential oil properties, potentially replacing chordate models. In addition, this research advances alternative remedies for currently incurable diseases, with lavender oil emerging as a promising candidate for drug discovery.

Prospects on emerging eco-friendly and innovative technologies to add value to dry bean proteins.

The world's growing population and evolving food habits have created a need for alternative plant protein sources, with pulses playing a crucial role as healthy staple foods. Dry beans are high-protein pulses rich in essential amino acids like lysine and bioactive peptides. They have gathered attention for their nutritional quality and potential health benefits concerning metabolic syndrome. This review highlights dry bean proteins' nutritional quality, health benefits, and limitations, focusing on recent eco-friendly emerging technologies for their obtaining and functionalization. Antinutritional factors (ANFs) in bean proteins can affect their in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD), and lectins have been identified as potential allergens. Recently, eco-friendly emerging technologies such as ultrasound, microwaves, subcritical fluids, high-hydrostatic pressure, enzyme technology, and dry fractionation methods have been explored for extracting and functionalizing dry bean proteins. These technologies have shown promise in reducing ANFs, improving IVPD, and modifying allergen epitopes. Additionally, they enhance the techno-functional properties of bean proteins, making them more soluble, emulsifying, foaming, and gel-forming, with enhanced water and oil-holding capacities. By utilizing emerging innovative technologies, protein recovery from dry beans and the development of protein isolates can meet the demand for alternative protein sources while being eco-friendly, safe, and efficient.

Dry beans are a source of lysine-rich proteins and high-quality AA for the diet.Physical treatments can reduce the ANFs of beans and increase protein digestibility.Eco-friendly technologies can treat, modify, extract, and separate bean proteins.Conformational changes with protein unfolding improve WHC, EA, and solubility.The combined use of emerging technologies allows for conveying advantages of each one.

Basin-wide variation in tree hydraulic safety margins predicts the carbon balance of Amazon forests.

Tropical forests face increasing climate risk1,2, yet our ability to predict their response to climate change is limited by poor understanding of their resistance to water stress. Although xylem embolism resistance thresholds (for example, [Formula: see text]50) and hydraulic safety margins (for example, HSM50) are important predictors of drought-induced mortality risk3-5, little is known about how these vary across Earth's largest tropical forest. Here, we present a pan-Amazon, fully standardized hydraulic traits dataset and use it to assess regional variation in drought sensitivity and hydraulic trait ability to predict species distributions and long-term forest biomass accumulation. Parameters [Formula: see text]50 and HSM50 vary markedly across the Amazon and are related to average long-term rainfall characteristics. Both [Formula: see text]50 and HSM50 influence the biogeographical distribution of Amazon tree species. However, HSM50 was the only significant predictor of observed decadal-scale changes in forest biomass. Old-growth forests with wide HSM50 are gaining more biomass than are low HSM50 forests. We propose that this may be associated with a growth-mortality trade-off whereby trees in forests consisting of fast-growing species take greater hydraulic risks and face greater mortality risk. Moreover, in regions of more pronounced climatic change, we find evidence that forests are losing biomass, suggesting that species in these regions may be operating beyond their hydraulic limits. Continued climate change is likely to further reduce HSM50 in the Amazon6,7, with strong implications for the Amazon carbon sink.

Alteração do estado emocional de professores da educação básica brasileira / Change in the emotional state of teachers in the Brazilian basic education

O presente estudo avaliou a associação da saúde mental com fatores do ambiente de trabalho de professores brasileiros. Para tanto, foram aplicados um questionário semiestruturado com questões socioeconômicas e o Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale para 499 professores, recrutados por meio do Facebook e Instagram. Desses, 391 eram do gênero feminino e 108 do masculino. Verificou-se que 32,7% apresentaram escore indicativo de improvável quadro de ansiedade; 26,8% possível e 40,5% provável. Por outro lado, 45,1% exibiram escore de improvável depressão; 31,5% possível e 23,4% provável. Foi identificado que ser do gênero feminino interferiu negativamente nos escores de ansiedade e depressão (p<0,001); assim como a inadequação e insatisfação com a renda (p<0,001); a classificação como péssimo ou regular ambiente de trabalho (p<0,001); o espaço físico inadequado (p<0,001); ter sofrido violência provocada pelos estudantes ou seus respectivos pais (p<0,001). Além disso, trabalhar por um tempo ≥40 horas (p=0,030) foi indicativo de maior ansiedade. Muitos professores brasileiros sofrem com quadros de ansiedade e depressão e fatores controláveis interferem diretamente. Sugere-se que o poder público e os proprietários de escolas privadas intervenham nesses contextos para evitar o colapso da saúde desses profissionais.

The present study evaluated the association between mental health and work environment factors among Brazilian teachers. In order to achieve that, a semi-structured questionnaire with socioeconomic questions and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were applied to 499 teachers, recruited through Facebook and Instagram. Among these, 391 were female and 108 were male. It was found that 32.7% had an improbable anxiety score; 26.8% possible and 40.5% probable. On the other hand, 45.1% had an improbable depression score; 31.5% possible and 23.4% probable. It was identified that being female had a negative effect on anxiety and depression scores (p<0.001); as well as inadequacy and dissatisfaction with income (p<0.001); work environment classified as poor or regular (p<0.001); inadequate physical space (p<0.001); having suffered violence caused by students or their respective parents (p<0.001). Furthermore, working for 40 hours or else (p=0.030) was indicative of greater anxiety. Many Brazilian teachers suffer from anxiety and depression and controllable factors interfere directly. It is suggested that public authorities and private school owners intervene in these contexts to prevent the health of these professionals from collapsing.

The role of residual renal function on potassium intake and excretion in patients on peritoneal dialysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients on chronic dialysis are at increased risk of developing disorders in potassium balance. The preservation of residual renal function (RRF), frequently observed in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), may contribute to better control of serum potassium. This study aimed to investigate the role residual renal function on potassium intake and excretion in PD patients. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, dietary potassium was evaluated by the 3-day food record. Potassium concentration was determined in serum, 24 h dialysate, stool ample, and 24 h urine of patients with diuresis > 200 mL/day, who were considered non-anuric. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients, 50% men, 52.6 ± 14.0 years, and PD vintage 19.5 [7.0-44.2] months, were enrolled. Compared to the anuric group (n = 17, 33%), the non-anuric group (n = 35, 67%) had lower dialysate potassium excretion (24.8 ± 5.3 vs 30.9 ± 5.9 mEq/d; p = 0.001), higher total potassium intake (44.5 ± 16.7 vs 35.1 ± 8.1 mEq/d; p = 0.009) and potassium intake from fruit (6.2 [2.4-14.7] vs 2.9 [0.0-6.0]mEq/d; p = 0.018), and no difference in serum potassium (4.8 ± 0.6 vs 4.8 ± 0.9 mEq/L; p = 0.799) and fecal potassium (2.2 ± 0.5 vs 2.1 ± 0.7 mEq/L; p = 0.712). In non-anuric patients, potassium intake correlated directly with urinary potassium (r = 0.40; p = 0.017), but not with serum, dialysate, or fecal potassium. In the anuric group, potassium intake tended to correlate positively with serum potassium (r = 0.48; p = 0.051) and there was no correlation with dialysate or fecal potassium. CONCLUSION: The presence of residual renal function constitutes an important factor in the excretion of potassium, which may allow the adoption of a less-restrictive diet.

Effect of a Nutritional Behavioral Intervention on Intuitive Eating in Overweight Women With Chronic Kidney Disease.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a nutritional behavioral intervention on intuitive eating (IE) scores of overweight non-dialysis-dependent women with chronic kidney disease and to investigate the relationship of IE scores with demographic, nutritional, and quality of life parameters in this group. DESIGN AND METHODS: This is a prospective noncontrolled clinical trial of a behavioral multisession group intervention for dietary management. Each group comprised five to eight participants in 14 weekly or biweekly sessions lasting about 90 minutes each. The IE principles were discussed during the meetings. The IE scale 2, translated and adapted to the study population, with a four-factor model was applied to assess IE attitudes. The 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire was applied to assess health-related quality of life. RESULTS: Of the 33 patients who began participation in the study, 23 patients (median [interquartile range]: age = 62.0 years [58.0-68.0]; 52.2% with diabetes; body mass index = 32.6 kg/m2 [30.2-39.3]; estimated glomerular filtration rate = 28.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 [22.0-31.0]) completed the intervention. Except for the IE subscale Body-Food Choice Congruence, the IE total score and all its subscales (Unconditional Permission to Eat, Eating for Physical Rather than Emotional Reasons, Reliance on Hunger and Satiety Cues, and Body-Food Choice Congruence) improved after the intervention. In a cross-sectional analysis, more intuitive eaters were older and had better scores for health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: The nutritional behavioral intervention embracing IE principles was effective to improve IE attitudes for this group of chronic kidney disease patients. These results are promising and may contribute to a paradigm change in the strategies to enhance motivation and adherence to dietary recommendations in this population.

Gut microbiota profile of patients on peritoneal dialysis: comparison with household contacts.

BACKGROUND: Differences in patients gut microbiota composition with the potential for dysbiosis have been associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, factors other than the disease itself, such as diet and cohabitation, have not been evaluated when gut microbiota of CKD patients was compared with that of healthy controls. The aim of this study was to compare the gut microbiota composition between patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and age-matched household contacts with normal renal function. METHODS: Fecal samples were collected from 20 patients [men: 70%; age: 53.5 years (48.2-66; median and interquartile range); length on PD: 14 months (5.2-43.5) and 20 controls. The region V4 of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene was PCR-amplified and sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. Dietary intake and diet quality were assessed by a 3-day food record and a diet quality index, respectively. RESULTS: No difference was found between the gut microbiota composition of patients and controls, assessed by alpha and beta diversities (p > 0.05) and genera differential abundance (p > 0.05). The most abundant phyla in both groups were Firmicutes (PD = 45%; Control: 47%; p = 0.65) and Bacteroidetes (PD = 41%; Control: 45%; p = 0.17). The phylum Proteobacteria, known as a potential marker of gut dysbiosis, was not different in proportions between groups (p > 0.05). No difference was observed regarding diet quality and dietary intake of fiber, protein and other nutrients (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Gut microbiota of patients on PD did not differ from household contacts. This result suggests that cohabitation and dietary intake might have outweighed the disease influence on gut microbiota composition of our PD patients.

Morphometric aspects and proposal of a new classification of genial tubercles in cone-beam computed tomography in a Brazilian population.

Objective: This study evaluated epidemiological and morphological aspects of genial tubercles (GTs) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This retrospective, observational and cross-sectional study evaluated 276 tomographs of adult dentate individuals (18-69 years). The presence and absence of GTs were evaluated, and in cases in which this structure was observed, linear measurements (length, height, and width), and anatomical distances. In addition, a GT classification was proposed based on the presence, number, and location of the tubercles. Results: Of the 276 CT scans, 28 (10.14%) had absence of GTs and in 248 CT scans GTs were present, of which 42 (57.5%) were from females and 106 (42.5%) from males. Regarding the number of GTS, the most prevalent variant was the two-tubercle-variant (143, 57.7%), followed by the presence of a single tubercle (n = 62, 25.0%), 3 tubercles (n = 40, 16.1%) and 4 tubercles (n = 3, 1.2%). The most prevalent classification was IIIA (n = 96, 38.7%), followed by IIIB (n = 60, 36.3%), IIA (n = 53, 21.4%) and IIB (n = 9, 3.6%). Conclusion: A prevalence of GT of approximately 90% was observed, with two GTs per exam as the most frequent finding. Men had a longer mean GT length compared to women. Female individuals exhibited a shorter distance from the base of the GT to the base of the mandible.

Associação da cromogranina a com a ansiedade e o estresse em profissionais de enfermagem

Objetivo: Avaliar a associação da concentração de Cromogranina A com a ansiedade e estresse em profissionais de enfermagem e a associação da ansiedade e estresse com fatores sociodemográficos, epidemiológicos e laborais. Método: Estudo transversal desenvolvido com 210 profissionais de enfermagem de uma instituição hospitalar do Sudeste de Minas Gerais, Brasil, entre 2018/2019, por meio de preenchimento de um questionário de caracterização, do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck e do Inventário de Sintomas de Stress para Adultos de Lipp, bem como da coleta de saliva dos participantes para verificar a concentração de Cromogranina A dos participantes. Os dados foram analisados de forma descritiva e inferencial, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: A maioria dos profissionais apresentou estresse (58,1%) e ansiedade (51,9%). Fatores como faixa etária, número de filhos, tempo de atuação na instituição, carga horária de trabalho, falta de atividade física, uso de medicamentos e outro emprego, aumentaram as chances desses trabalhadores terem ansiedade e estresse em níveis mais altos (P< 0,001). A Cromogranina A apresentou maiores alterações nos profissionais do turno da tarde. Observou-se associação entre o grupo que tinha estresse e ansiedade com a Cromogranina A, no turno da noite, bem como do grupo que tinha apenas ansiedade em horários do turno da manhã (P< 0,05). Conclusão: Os profissionais apresentaram níveis de ansiedade e estresse, que foram associados às alterações da CgA em alguns horários, demonstrando que essa proteína pode ser um possível biomarcador de ansiedade e de estresse.

Objective: To evaluate the association of Chromogranin A concentration with anxiety and stress in nursing professionals and the association of anxiety and stress with sociodemographic, epidemiological, and occupational factors. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out with 210 nursing professionals from a hospital in the southeast of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, between 2018 and 2019, by completing a characterization questionnaire, the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Lipp's Stress Symptoms Inventory for Adults, as well as the collection of saliva from the participants to verify the concentration of Chromogranin A. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Most of the professionals had stress (58.1%) and anxiety (51.9%). Factors such as age group, number of children, time working in the institution, workload, lack of physical activity, use of medication and having other jobs, increased the likelihood of these workers experiencing higher levels of anxiety and stress (P< 0.001). Chromogranin A showed greater changes among the nursing professionals working the evening shift. A relationship was observed between the group that presented stress and anxiety with Chromogranin A, during the night shift, as well as the group that presented only anxiety during the morning shift (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Nursing professionals showed levels of anxiety and stress that were associated with changes in CgA at certain times, demonstrating that this protein may be a possible biomarker of anxiety and stress.

Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación de la concentración de Cromogranina A con la ansiedad y el estrés en profesionales de enfermería y la asociación de la ansiedad y el estrés con factores sociodemográficos, epidemiológicos y laborales. Método: Estudio transversal desarrollado con 210 profesionales de enfermería de un hospital del Sudeste de Minas Gerais, Brasil, entre 2018/2019, mediante la realización de un cuestionario de caracterización, el Inventario de Ansiedad de Beck y el Inventario de Síntomas de Estrés para Adultos de Lipp, así como la recolección de saliva de los participantes para verificar la concentración de Cromogranina A de los participantes. Los datos fueron analizados de forma descriptiva e inferencial, con un nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: La mayoría de los profesionales tenían estrés (58,1%) y ansiedad (51,9%). Factores como grupo de edad, número de hijos, tiempo de trabajo en la institución, carga de trabajo, falta de actividad física, uso de medicamentos y otros empleos, aumentaron las posibilidades de que estos trabajadores tuvieran ansiedad y estrés en niveles más altos (P< 0,001). La Cromogranina A mostró mayores cambios en los profesionales del turno vespertino. Se observó asociación entre el grupo que presentó estrés y ansiedad con Cromogranina A, en el turno de la noche, así como el grupo que presentó únicamente ansiedad en el turno de la mañana (P< 0,05). Conclusión: Los profesionales presentaron niveles de ansiedad y estrés, que se asociaron con cambios en la CgA en determinados momentos, demostrando que esa proteína puede ser un posible biomarcador de ansiedad y estrés.

Redox Status of Postmenopausal Women with Single or Multiple Cardiometabolic Diseases Has a Similar Response to Mat Pilates Training.

Postmenopausal women have a high prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases and that may associate with higher oxidative stress. Exercise can contribute to the treatment of such diseases, but some modalities, such as Mat Pilates, need to be further studied in terms of their physiological responses. Our aim was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of Mat Pilates on redox status in postmenopausal women with one or multiple comorbidities of cardiometabolic diseases. Forty-four postmenopausal women were divided into two groups: SINGLE, composed of women with one cardiometabolic disease (n = 20) and MULT, with multimorbidity (n = 24). Mat Pilates training was conducted three times a week for 12 weeks, and each session lasted 50 min. Plasma samples were collected before and after training to analyze the following redox markers: superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity due to ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), reduced glutathione (GSH), uric acid, and carbonyl protein. ANCOVA showed interaction effects in FRAP (p = 0.014). Both groups had reduced levels of catalase (p = 0.240) and GSH (p = 0.309), and increased levels of carbonyl protein (p = 0.053) after intervention. In conclusion, the redox status of postmenopausal women shows no changes mediated by Mat Pilates training between SINGLE and MULT, except for greater reductions of FRAP in SINGLE.

Increased selenium concentration in the synthesis of CdSe magic-sized quantum dots affects how the brain responds to oxidative stress.

CdSe magic-sized quantum dots (MSQDs) have been widely used as fluorescent probes in biological systems due to their excellent optical properties with a broader fluorescence spectrum and stable luminescence in biological media. However, they can be cytotoxic and alter the redox balance depending on the amounts of Cd2+ adsorbed on their surface. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate whether increases in selenium concentration in the synthesis of CdSe-MSQDs decrease the oxidative stress caused by Cd2+ -based quantum dots. CdSe-MSQDs synthesized with different concentrations of selenium were investigated against oxidative stress in the brain of chicken embryos by examining total antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidation, thiol, and glutathione contents, as well as the activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase. In addition, the vascularization of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) analysis was performed. Higher selenium concentrations alter the surface defect levels (decrease free Cd2+ ) and controlled the oxidative effects of CdSe-MSQDs by reducing the lipid peroxidation, restoring the glutathione defense system and the antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT, and maintaining the vascular density of the CAM. The current findings reinforce the study of the effects of the presence of Cd2+ ions on the surface of quantum dots, changing toxicity, and aiming interesting strategies of nanomaterials in biological systems.

Rede Mãe Paranaense: análise do índice de implementação em regionais de saúde / Rede Mãe Paranaense: analysis of the implementation index in the regional healthcare network

Resumo Introdução A avaliação de programas pode nortear a tomada de decisão de gestores. Objetivo Analisar o Índice de Implementação (II) da Rede Mãe Paranaense (RMP). Método Pesquisa quantitativa retrospectiva realizada em três Regionais de Saúde (RS) do Paraná, Brasil, totalizando 55 municípios. Construíram-se indicadores de avaliação antes (2010-2011) e depois (2012-2013) da implementação da Rede. Estabeleceram-se cinco domínios com variáveis coletadas no Sisprenatal, Sinasc, SI-PNI, SIM e informações nas RS. Para cada domínio, avaliou-se a influência das variáveis do II (adequado e inadequado). Utilizou-se do programa XLStat2014® e aplicaram-se os testes de Shapiro-Wilk, regressão logística, análise da variância fatorial e Monte Carlo, com nível de significância p < 0,05. Resultados O II antes (2010-2011) e depois (2012-2013) da RMP, nas três RS, apresentou diferença estatística significativa (F6,156 = 129,14; p = 0,000). Em 2010, todas as RS foram estatisticamente semelhantes (p > 0,05), demonstrando equivalência nos municípios; em 2010-2011, o II da 10ª RS foi maior que da 9ª RS; em 2011-2012, os valores da 10ª e da 17ª RS foram estatisticamente superiores aos da 9ª RS (p < 0,05); em 2012-2013, a 10ª RS apresentou elevado crescimento, semelhante ao da 17ª RS (p > 0,05) e superior ao da 9ª RS (p < 0,05). Conclusão O II para avaliar o desempenho da Rede nas três RS se mostrou adequado à avaliação dos indicadores.

Abstract Background Program evaluation can guide managers' decision-making. Objective Analyze the Implementation Index of the Rede Mãe Paranaense healthcare network. Method Retrospective, quantitative study conducted in three Health Regionals (HRs) in the state of Paraná, Brazil, including 55 municipalities. Evaluation indicators were built before (2010-2011) and after (2012-2013) the implementation of the network. Five domains were established, with variables collected from SISPRENATAL, SINASC, SI-PNI, SIM, and information from HR. For each domain, the influence of the Implementation Index (II) variables (adequate vs. inadequate) was evaluated. The XLSTAT2014® software was used and the Shapiro-Wilk and Monte Carlo tests, Logistic Regression Analysis, and Factorial Analysis of Variance were applied at a 5% significance level (p<0.05). Results Statistically significant differences (F6.156=129.14; p=0.000) were observed between the II values before (2010-2011) and after (2012-2013) the implementation of the Rede Mãe Paranaense healthcare network in the three HRs. In 2010, all HRs were statistically similar (p>0.05), demonstrating equivalence in the municipalities; from 2010 to 2011, the II of the 10th HR was higher than that of the 9th HR; from 2011 to 2012, the 10th and 17th HRs were statistically superior to the 9th HR (p<0.05); from 2012 to 2013, the 10th HR showed increased growth, similar to that of the 17th HR (p>0.05) and higher than that of the 9th HR (p<0.05). Conclusion The Implementation Index proved to be adequate to evaluate the performance indicators of the Rede Mãe Paranaense healthcare network in the three Health Regionals analyzed.

Association of salivary alpha-amylase with anxiety and stress in nursing professionals.

OBJECTIVE: to assess if changes in salivary alpha-amylase activity are associated with anxiety and stress among hospital nursing professionals and whether anxiety and stress are associated with sociodemographic, epidemiological, and occupational factors. METHOD: cross-sectional, quantitative study, carried out with 210 nursing professionals from a hospital. For data collection, we used a questionnaire to characterize workers, Beck's Anxiety Inventory, Lipp's Stress Symptoms Inventory for Adults and samples and saliva samples collected in work shifts. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the software Statistical Package for the Social Science and GraphPad Prism. RESULTS: most professionals experienced stress and anxiety. The variables age group, number of children, use of medication and workload were associated with anxiety; age group, smoking and medication use were associated with stress. An increase in the salivary alpha-amylase activity was observed in the middle of the work shift. Professionals who had stress and anxiety had significant changes in alpha-amylase in the night shift. CONCLUSION: changes in salivary alpha-amylase were associated with anxiety and stress among nursing professionals, indicating that this enzyme can be a possible biomarker of anxiety and stress in workers.

Immunosensor Based on Zinc Oxide Nanocrystals Decorated with Copper for the Electrochemical Detection of Human Salivary Alpha-Amylase.

(1) Background: Nanocrystals (NCs)-based electrochemical sensors have been proposed for biomarkers detection, although immunosensors using ZnO NCs decorated with copper are still scarce. (2) Methods: Electrochemical immunodetection of human salivary alpha-amylase (HSA) used ZnO, CuO, and ZnO:xCu (x = 0.1, 0.4, 1.0, 4.0, and 12.0) NCs. (3) Results: Substitutional incorporation of Cu2+ in the crystalline structure of ZnO and formation of nanocomposite were demonstrated by characterization. Graphite electrodes were used and the electrochemical signal increased by 40% when using ZnO:1Cu and 4Cu (0.25 mg·mL-1), in an immunosensor (0.372 mg·mL-1 of anti-alpha-amylase and 1% of casein). Different interactions of HSA with the alpha-amylase antibody were registered when adding the NCs together, either before or after the addition of saliva (4 µL). The immunosensor changed specificity due to the interaction of copper. The ZnO:1Cu and ZnO:4Cu samples showed 50% interference in detection when used before the addition of saliva. The immunosensor showed 100% specificity and a sensitivity of 0.00196 U·mL-1. (4) Conclusions: Results showed that the order of NCs addition in the sensors should be tested and evaluated to avoid misinterpretation in detection and to enable advances in the validation of the immunosensor.

Features of Neutrophils From Atopic and Non-Atopic Elite Endurance Runners.

We collected peripheral blood from thirty-nine elite male endurance runners at rest (24 hours after the last exercise session) and used the Allergy Questionnaire for Athletes score and plasma specific IgE level to separate them into atopic and non-atopic athletes. Neutrophils obtained from atopic and non-atopic athletes were subsequently stimulated in vitro with fMLP (N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine), LPS (lipopolysaccharide), or PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate). Neutrophils from non-atopic runners responded appropriately to LPS, as evidenced by the production of pro (IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines. Neutrophils from atopic elite runners exhibited lower responses to LPS stimulus as indicated by no increase in IL-1ß, TNF-α, and IL-6 production. Neutrophils from non-atopic and atopic runners responded similarly to fMLP stimulation, indicating that migration function remained unaltered. Both groups were unresponsive to PMA induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Training hours and training volume were not associated with neutrophil IgE receptor gene expression or any evaluated neutrophil function. Since non-atopic runners normally responded to LPS stimulation, the reduced neutrophil response to the stimuli was most likely due to the atopic state and not exercise training. The findings reported are of clinical relevance because atopic runners exhibit a constant decline in competition performance and are more susceptible to invading microorganisms.