Antifungal activity of Annona crassiflora Mart. dichloromethane fraction against strains of C. albicans.

Products derived from medicinal plants with antimicrobial activity are considered a promising alternative in the treatment of fungal infections. In this perspective, this study proposed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. against C. albicans strains. Tests were carried out to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC), microbial growth kinetics, fungal cell wall and membrane mechanisms of action, antifungal biofilm activity, and cytotoxic effects on human erythrocytes. The extract presented MIC and MFC values that ranged from 256 µg/mL to 1,024 µg/mL, with fungicidal activity in the microbial growth kinetics assay. The mechanism of action did not occur through damage to the cell wall or via binding to ergosterol in the membrane, though the fraction presents activity against biofilm and is not cytotoxic in human erythrocytes. The dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. presented antifungal activity and reduced biofilm growth, without toxicity against human erythrocytes; however, further studies are needed to define its mechanism of action.

Health literacy and diabetic retinopathy.

Health literacy (HL) is defined as a cognitive and social skill that determines the motivation and ability of individuals to understand and use information to promote and maintain proper health. Inadequate HL has been associated with worse outcomes in diabetes control, poor self-care, and higher hospitalization rates for some chronic diseases. We hypothesized that HL influences the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and that inadequate glycemic control would mediate this association. This was a cross-sectional study carried out with 288 participants of the "Brazilian Diabetes Study" cohort. Inclusion criteria were people diagnosed with T2DM aged between 40 and 70 years and ability to read and write. In the adequate HL group, DR was found in 16.5% of participants and in the inadequate HL group, it was found in 32.8% (P=0.0081). Individuals with inadequate HL had a higher risk of having DR, and this association was still statistically significant after adjusting for HbA1c, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. In conclusion, HL is related to DR without the mediation of classical clinical variables.

Health literacy and diabetic retinopathy

Health literacy (HL) is defined as a cognitive and social skill that determines the motivation and ability of individuals to understand and use information to promote and maintain proper health. Inadequate HL has been associated with worse outcomes in diabetes control, poor self-care, and higher hospitalization rates for some chronic diseases. We hypothesized that HL influences the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and that inadequate glycemic control would mediate this association. This was a cross-sectional study carried out with 288 participants of the "Brazilian Diabetes Study" cohort. Inclusion criteria were people diagnosed with T2DM aged between 40 and 70 years and ability to read and write. In the adequate HL group, DR was found in 16.5% of participants and in the inadequate HL group, it was found in 32.8% (P=0.0081). Individuals with inadequate HL had a higher risk of having DR, and this association was still statistically significant after adjusting for HbA1c, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. In conclusion, HL is related to DR without the mediation of classical clinical variables.

The geographical distribution and socioeconomic risk factors of COVID-19, tuberculosis and leprosy in Fortaleza, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Fortaleza (Brazil) is high endemic for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), tuberculosis (TB) and leprosy. These three diseases share respiratory droplets through coughing or sneezing as the main mode of transmission but differ in incubation time, with COVID-19 having a short and leprosy a long incubation time. Consequently, contacts of a patient are at higher risk of infection and developing these diseases. There might be scope for combined preventive measures, but a better understanding of the geographical distribution and relevant socioeconomic risk factors of the three diseases is needed first. This study aims to describe the geographic distribution of COVID-19, TB and leprosy incidence and to identify common socioeconomic risk factors. METHODS: The total number of new cases of COVID-19, TB and leprosy, as well as socioeconomic and demographic variables, were retrieved from official registers. The geographical distribution of COVID-19, TB and leprosy rates per neighbourhood was visualised in Quantum GIS, and spatial autocorrelation was measured with Moran's I in GeoDa. A spatial regression model was applied to understand the association between COVID-19, TB, leprosy rates, and socioeconomic factors. RESULTS: COVID-19 and TB showed a more homogenous distribution, whereas leprosy is located more in the south and west of Fortaleza. One neighbourhood (Pedras) in the southeast was identified as high endemic for all three diseases. Literacy was a socioeconomic risk factor for all three diseases: a high literacy rate increases the risk of COVID-19, and a low literacy rate (i.e., illiteracy) increases the risk of TB and leprosy. In addition, high income was associated with COVID-19, while low income with TB. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the similar mode of transmission, COVID-19, TB and leprosy show a different distribution of cases in Fortaleza. In addition, associated risk factors are related to wealth in COVID-19 and to poverty in TB and leprosy. These findings may support policymakers in developing (partially combined) primary and secondary prevention considering the efficient use of resources.

Physical and chemical aspects of the footbath from dairy farms with different production systems in Arapoti, Paraná / Aspectos físicos e químicos do pedilúvio de propriedades leiteiras com diferentes sistemas de produção, no município de Arapoti, Paraná

This study aimed to evaluate copper sulfate solutions at 5% and 10% concentrations in footbaths from three dairy farms (A, B and C) with free stall and compost barn production systems, located in the municipality of Arapoti, Parana, Brazil. Farms A, B and C were composed of 537, 88 and 208 lactating cows, respectively, all conditioned to the use of a footbath. Every seven days, before and after the passage of each batch of cows through the footbath, samples of the solution were collected for the evaluation of pH, temperature, and the volume of the solution measured. Farms A and C had higher pH alkalinization due to the greater number of batch passages, from the third batch onwards, and also a reduction in the volume of the solution. It is concluded that the volume varied both with the number of animals that passed through the footbath and with the deposition of organic matter in the solution. The concentration of 10% copper sulfate solution was not able to inhibit pH changes. Furthermore, there was no standardization in the dimensions of the footbaths on the farms.

Objetivou-se avaliar as soluções de sulfato de cobre nas concentrações de 5% e 10%, em pedilúvios de três propriedades leiteiras (A, B e C), com sistemas de produção "free stall" e "compost barn", localizadas no município de Arapoti, Paraná, Brasil. As propriedades A, B e C eram compostas por 537, 88 e 208 vacas em lactação, respectivamente, todas condicionadas ao uso do pedilúvio. A cada sete dias, antes e após a passagem de cada lote de vacas pelo pedilúvio, foram colhidas amostras da solução para a avaliação do pH, da temperatura e do volume. As propriedades A e C tiveram alcalinização maior do pH devido ao maior número de passagem de lotes, a partir do terceiro lote, com redução também do volume da solução. Conclui-se que o volume variou tanto com o número de animais que passaram pelo pedilúvio quanto com a deposição de matéria orgânica na solução. A concentração da solução de sulfato de cobre a 10% não foi capaz de inibir as alterações de pH. Além disso, não houve padronização das dimensões dos pedilúvios nas fazendas.

Morphological analysis of myocardial bridges and coronary arterial dominance in northeast Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Coronary arterial dominance and myocardial bridges have clinical implications, since a left dominant pattern associated to the presence of myocardial bridges is often associated to a higher incidence of arteriosclerosis and higher mortality by myocardial infarction. OBJECTIVE: To determine the presence and position of myocardial bridges and their relation with coronary arterial dominance. METHODS: Fifty-seven human cadaveric hearts were analyzed into three groups, as follows: right dominance; left dominance; codominance. Each group was then divided into two subgroups: with or without myocardial bridges. Finally, each subgroup with myocardial bridges was classified according to the position of the myocardial bridge according to the main axis of the heart (proximal, middle and distal third). RESULTS: The right dominance occurred in most hearts (30 hearts-52,6%). Twenty-three myocardial bridges (40,3%) were identified and mostly occurred on left dominant hearts (22,8%). The pattern of coronary dominance presented a statistically significant correlation with the presence of myocardial bridges (P=0.048). The middle third of the heart axis showed the highest occurrence of myocardial bridges. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest there is a clear relationship between the presence of myocardial bridges and left dominant pattern. Middle third of the heart axis present the higher occurrence of myocardial bridges. Knowledge of the myocardial bridges morphology is of great clinical significance, improving patient care.

First study of Brucella ovis antibodies in purebred sheep flocks in the State of Parana, Brazil / [Primeiro estudo de anticorpos para Brucella ovis em rebanhos de ovinos puros de Origem, no estado do Paraná, Brasil]

Brucella ovis, a non-zoonotic species, is the etiological agent of ovine brucellosis, an infectious disease of clinical or subclinical occurrence in sheep flocks. Until then, there is no serological study of anti-Brucella ovis antibodies in purebred sheep herds. This study aimed to determine the presence of anti-Brucella ovis antibodies in purebred sheep flocks with breeding purposes from Parana State. Blood samples from 728 animals, of which 563 were females and 165 males, between 8 and 56 months of age from the six major sheep producing mesoregions of Parana, were submitted to detection of anti-Brucella ovis antibodies by the Agar Gel Immunodiffusion technique using an antigen from the bacteria Brucella ovis (Reo 198). The results indicate the presence of this disease in purebred sheep from Parana State in a low occurrence of 0.27% (2/728). The only two positive animals were rams, Santa Inês breed, from the same flock in the East Center region of Parana, without clinical disease. In conclusion, Brucella ovis is present in purebred sheep in Parana State, Brazil, and this low occurrence may have occurred due to rigorous breeding systems that may contribute to reduce the transmission of this disease.(AU)

Brucella ovis, espécie não zoonótica, é o agente etiológico da brucelose ovina, doença infecciosa de ocorrência clínica ou subclínica. Atualmente, não existe estudo sorológico de anticorpos anti-Brucella ovis em rebanhos de ovinos puros de origem. Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar a presença de anticorpos anti-Brucella ovis em rebanhos ovinos de raça pura de origem, com fins reprodutivos do estado do Paraná. Amostras de sangue de 728 animais, sendo 563 fêmeas e 165 machos, entre oito e 56 meses de idade, pertencentes a seis principais mesorregiões produtoras de ovinos no Paraná, foram submetidas à detecção de anticorpos anti-Brucella ovis pela técnica de imunodifusão em ágar gel usando-se um antígeno da bactéria Brucella ovis (Reo 198). Os resultados indicam a presença da doença em ovinos puros de origem do estado do Paraná em baixa ocorrência de 0,27% (2/728). Os dois únicos animais positivos foram reprodutores da raça Santa Inês, do mesmo rebanho da região Centro Leste do Paraná, sem manifestação clínica. Em conclusão, Brucella ovis está presente em ovinos puros de origem no estado do Paraná, e essa baixa ocorrência pode ter ocorrido devido a sistemas rigorosos de criação, que podem contribuir para a redução da transmissão dessa doença.(AU)

Clinical, tomographic, and postmortem aspects of a rare congenital Dicephalus Monauchenos Iniodymus in a Nelore calf produced in vitro from Brazil: case report / Aspectos clínicos, tomográficos e pós-morte de um raro Dicephalus Monauchenos Iniodymus congênito em um bezerro Nelore produzido in vitro no Brasil: relato de caso

The aim of this work was to report the occurrence of dicephalus iniodymus monauchenos in a Nellore newborn. A three-days old calf, from in vitro production, with duplication of the head and a history of cesarean birth was attended. On physical examination, the dicephalus, iniodymus and monauchenos, which were almost the same size and shape, had four eyes and four ears. Computed tomography showed the presence of two skulls fused with a common occipital foramen, two nasopharynxes, oropharynxes with the presence of a cleft lip and a cleft palate in the right head, which continued in a single esophagus and a single trachea. At necropsy, the presence of duplication of the cerebrum and cerebellum was observed, with union of the parts in the region of the trapezoid body of the brainstem and continued as a single spinal cord. This study characterizes the clinical, tomographic, and necropsy findings of a dicephalus Nelore neonate.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar a ocorrência de Dicephalus Iniodymus Monauchenos em um neonato da raça Nelore de produção in vitro. Foi atendida uma fêmea bovina, de três dias de idade, com duplicação das cabeças e histórico de nascimento por meio de cesariana. No exame físico, observou-se a dicefalia, Iniodymus e Monauchenos, apresentando quatro olhos e quatro orelhas. Na tomografia computadorizada, constatou-se a presença de dois crânios fundidos com um forame occipital comum, duas nasofaringes, orofaringes com presença de lábio leporino e fenda palatina na cabeça direita, que continuavam em um único esôfago e em uma única traqueia. Na necropsia, observou-se a presença de duplicação do encéfalo e cerebelo, com união das partes na região do corpo trapezoide do tronco encefálico, que continuavam como uma única medula espinhal. Este estudo caracteriza os achados clínicos, tomográficos e de necropsia de um neonato Nelore dicefálico.(AU)

Development of Films, Based on Oxidized Ipomea Batatas Starch, with Protein Encapsulation / Desarrollo de Películas, Basadas en Almidón Oxidado de Ipomea Batatas, con Encapsulación de Proteínas

ABSTRACT Dialdehyde starches (DAS) have been used as biomaterials due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability; nonetheless, sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) starch has not been researched. Films based on sweet potato DAS, mixed with native starch (NS), poly-vinyl alcohol (PVA) and glycerin have been developed with protein encapsulation, using central composite design (CCD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Input variables were oxidation degree, NS concentration and polymeric mixture volume, while output variables were film's thickness, equilibrium swelling and BSA (Bovine serum albumin) release. DAS was obtained through hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation, and the oxidation degree is referred to as H2O2 concentration. Films presented rough surfaces, and formulations containing 10% H2O2 DAS presented micropores. Water uptake was greater with higher DAS content. Film thickness depended on the volume of the polymeric suspension and influenced swelling capacity. According to RSM, the optimal formulation was DAS with 5% H2O2 and 35% NS. These results demonstrate that oxidized sweet potato starch has potential for protein encapsulation and delivery.

RESUMEN Almidones dialdehído (DAS) se han utilizado como biomateriales por su biocompatibilidad y biodegradabilidad; sin embargo, el almidón de camote (Ipomea batatas L.) no ha sido investigado. Se han desarrollado películas de DAS de camote, con almidón nativo (NS), alcohol polivinílico (PVA) y glicerina con encapsulación de proteínas, utilizando un diseño central compuesto (CCD) y metodología de superficie de respuesta (RSM). Las variables de entrada fueron: grado de oxidación, concentración de NS y volumen de la mezcla polimérica, mientras que las variables de salida fueron: espesor de la película, hinchamiento y liberación de BSA (Albúmina de Suero Bovino) en equilibrio. DAS se obtuvo mediante oxidación con peróxido de hidrógeno (H2O2), y el grado de oxidación se define como concentración de H2O2. Las películas presentaron superficies rugosas y las formulaciones con 10% H2O2 DAS presentaron microporos. La absorción de agua fue mayor con mayor contenido de DAS. El espesor de la película dependió del volumen de la mezcla polimérica e influyó en la capacidad de hinchamiento. Según RSM, la formulación óptima fue DAS con 5% H2O2 y 35% NS. Estos resultados demuestran que el almidón de camote oxidado tiene potencial para aplicaciones en la encapsulación y liberación de proteínas.

First occurrence of Arnold Chiari type II malformation and associated abnormalities in a Gir calf produced in vitro from Brazil - case report / [Primeira ocorrência de malformação de Arnold Chiari tipo II e anormalidades associadas em uma bezerra Gir de produção in vitro no Brasil - relato de caso]

This study characterized the clinical, radiological, ultrasound, and necroscopic findings of a case of Arnold-Chiari type II malformation in a Gir breed calf from Brazil. The animal was hospitalized at sixty days of age, in permanent sternal recumbency, cutaneous appendix at the 4th lumbar vertebra and kyphoscoliosis of the caudal and lumbosacral thoracic spine. Radiographic examination of the spine and skull revealed spina bifida and suspected occipital hypoplasia. Upon examination of myelography with an injection of lumbar and atlantooccipital contrast, it was possible to visualize the meningocele at the 4th lumbar vertebra region and findings at the rhombencephalon level of increased regional pressure with failure to fill the contrast in the posterior fossa, in the presence of clear demarcation of the circumvolutions of the cerebral cortex and the subarachnoid space of the cervical spinal cord. Ultrasonographic examination of the cerebellum showed an insinuation of the cerebellar worm through the foramen magnum. The animal did not show changes in complete blood count, biochemical series, and cerebrospinal fluid and was negative for Pestivirus. There was a worsening of the clinical conditions and the animal died. This malformation of unknown etiology must be studied as a differential diagnosis of the nervous system disorders.(AU)

Este estudo caracterizou os achados clínicos, radiológicos, ultrassonográficos e necroscópicos de um caso de malformação de Arnold-Chiari tipo II em uma bezerra Gir no Brasil. O animal foi hospilatizado aos 60 dias de idade, apresentando decúbito esternal permanente, apêndice cutâneo na altura da quarta vértebra lombar e cifoescoliose da coluna vertebral torácica caudal e lombossacra. Ao exame radiográfico da coluna e do crânio, foram observadas espinha bífida e suspeita de hipoplasia occipital. Ao exame de mielografia com injeção de contraste lombar e atlanto-occipital, foi possivel visualizar a meningocele na altura da quarta vértebra lombar e achados em nível rombencefálico de aumento da pressão regional com falha de preenchimento do contraste na fossa posterior, na presença de nítida demarcação das circunvoluções do córtex cerebral e do espaço subaracnoide da medula espinhal cervical. Ao exame ultrassonográfico do cerebelo, foi observada insinuação do verme cerebelar através do forame magno. O animal não apresentou alterações em hemograma completo, série bioquímica e fluido cérebro-espinhal e foi negativo para Pestivirus. Houve uma piora do quadro clínico e o animal morreu. Essa malformação de etiologia desconhecida deve ser estudada como um diagnóstico diferencial.(AU)

Comparison between nerve conduction study and high-resolution ultrasonography with color doppler in type 1 and type 2 leprosy reactions.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role of high-resolution ultrasonography with color Doppler (HRUS with CD) to diagnose inflammatory activity (IA) in nerves of leprosy patients under type 1 (RT1) and 2 (RT2) reactions compared to Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS). METHODS: Leprosy patients with signs or symptoms suggestive of neuritis (RT1 and RT2) without corticosteroids use were selected. They were evaluated by NCS and subsequently by HRUS with CD. Subacute segmental demyelination and the presence of blood flow, respectively, were considered signs of IA. The two methods were compared for their ability to diagnose patients with leprosy reactions. RESULTS: A total of 257 nerves from 35 patients were evaluated. NCS and HRUS with CD diagnosed IA in 68% and 74% of patients, respectively. When both methods were used concomitantly, the diagnosis rate was 91.4%. HRUS with CD was particular helpful when there was minimal neurophysiological compromise in NCS or when motor potentials were not detected. CONCLUSION: HRUS with CD was able to detect leprosy reactions, especially when combined with NCS. It was especially useful in two opposite situations: nerves with only minor changes and those without motor response in NCS. SIGNIFICANCE: Our data shows the usefulness of HRUS and CD, similar to NCS, as a tool to diagnose leprosy reactions.

Prevalence of foot disorders in lactating Jersey cows raised in semi-confinement.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: To establish prevention strategies, recording the prevalence of foot injuries within a herd should be the starting point in determining the risk factors involved in digital diseases. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of claw disorders in lactating Jersey cows raised in a semi-confinement system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five hundred and eighty-four digits were examined from 73 lactating Jersey cows. The lameness score system was used to assess each cow while walking and on standing position, and digital lesions were evaluated with the cows restrained in a hydraulic cattle chute. RESULTS: The prevalence of digital lesions was 93.1%. Among the 68 affected cows, only 21 were lame. Of the 584 digits examined, 970 lesions were recorded, corresponding to 13.3% lesions per cow and 1.66% injuries per digit. Forty-eight cows (65.7%) had lesions in all digits, and 92.8% of digits had at least one lesion. Lesions in digits of fore limbs were more common (55.3%) (p<0.0001) than those of hind limbs (44.7%). Foot injuries in medial digits of the fore limbs were more prevalent (56.8%) (p<0.001) than in the lateral digits (43.2%). The lesions' occurrence was similar in both medial and lateral digits of the hind limbs (p=0.8347). The primary diseases observed were heel horn erosion (53.8%), white line disease (19.3%), and double sole (12.4%), which together accounted for 92.4% and 84.9% of foot disorders diagnosed in the fore and hind limbs, respectively. Other digital diseases occurred less frequently. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of foot disorders in lactating Jersey cows raised in semi-confinement systems was high. This could be due to the lack of preventive trimming, infectious diseases, and nutritional problems.

Anatomical study of length and branching pattern of main trunk of the left coronary artery.

The left coronary artery is responsible for the irrigation of important heart structures. The objective of this study was to analyze the morphological characteristics of the main trunk of left coronary artery in the Brazilian population and its clinical implications. The study was carried out by using 63 adult human hearts of the human anatomy laboratory of the Federal university of Ceará, Brazil. The hearts were dissected for exposure and analysis of the left coronary artery and its branches. The data collected were statistically analyzed. The main trunk arose from the left aortic sinus under the left atrial auricle in all the 63 hearts. The mean length of the main trunk was 8.53±4.03mm. According to the criteria for the classification of the main trunk length, about 78% were medium-sized. The majority of the hearts (52.38%) showed trifurcation of the main trunk. Anova test followed by the Tukey's post hoc test showed that the main trunk length of hearts with trifurcation was significantly longer when compared with hearts with bifurcation (9.77±4.31mm vs. 6.44±3.01mm; P=0.0029). Similar findings were observed in the main trunk length of the hearts with tetrafurcation in comparison with hearts with bifurcation (10.78±1.4mm vs. 6.44±3.01mm; P=0.0387). This study showed that there is a correlation between the branching pattern and the length of the main trunk. Additionally, we showed that the most common branching pattern of the main trunk is the trifurcation, differing from other Brazilian studies and providing additional information to professionals of cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, and radiology.

Cultivo de Células Madre Mesenquimales Sobre Hidrogeles Compuestos de Nanopartículas de Hidroxiapatita y Quitosano Foto-Entrecruzable / Mesenchymal Stem Cell Culture on Composite Hydrogels of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles and Photo-Crosslinking Chitosan

RESUMEN El quitosano (QT) es un biopolímero que ha sido ampliamente utilizado en aplicaciones de ingeniería de tejido óseo, demostrando un gran potencial para este propósito. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo desarrollar un sistema de hidrogel entrecruzable in situ, compuesto de quitosano y nano-partículas de hidroxiapatita (HAP), un equivalente al componente mineral del hueso. El quitosano fue modificado, utilizando reacciones de carbodiimida, con ácido lactobiónico y ácido azidobenzoico para hacerlo soluble a pH fisiológico y foto-entrecruzable, respectivamente. El quitosano modificado fue mezclado en diferentes proporciones con HAP, y luego de una corta exposición a luz UV, se formaron hidrogeles. Células madre mesenquimales de médula ósea de rata (MSC) fueron sembradas sobre estos hidrogeles y cultivadas por 4, 10 y 16 días, bajo condiciones osteogénicas y no-osteogénicas. A través de ensayos de proliferación celular, actividad de fosfatasa alcalina, y microscopía confocal, se observó que la mayoría de las formulaciones soportan la adhesión y proliferación celular, mostrando importantes interacciones célula-biomaterial, y una diferenciación osteogénica temprana destacada en las formulaciones 70:30 y 50:50, QT:HAP. Algunas formulaciones del sistema foto-entrecruzable tienen potencial en aplicaciones de ingeniería de tejido óseo, y se propone estudios más detallados de diferenciación celular.

ABSTRACT Chitosan (QT) is a biopolymer that has been used in widely used in bone tissue engineering applications, demonstrating great potential for that purpose. Therefore, the present study aims to develop an in situ crosslinking hydrogel system, composed of chitosan and hydroxyapatite (HAP). Briefly, chitosan was modified, using carbodiimide chemistry, with lactobionic and azidobenzoic acid to make it soluble at physiological pH and photo-crosslinkable, respectively. The modified chitosan was mixed with HAP, in different proportions, and later exposed to UV light, yielding hydrogels. Mesenchymal stem cells, from rat bone marrow, were seeded onto the hydrogels and cultured for 4, 10 and 16 days, under osteogenic and non-osteogenic conditions. Through cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity assays, and confocal microscopy, it was observed that the majority of formulations supported cell adhesion and proliferation, and a significant early osteogenic differentiation in formulations 70:30 and 50:50, QT:HAP. According to these results, the proposed photo-crosslinking system has potential for tissue engineering applications, and further specific studies are proposed for cell differentiation.

Monensin sodium and functional oil as additive in protein-energy supplement for pasture-fed heifers / Monensina sódica e óleo funcional como aditivo em suplemento protéico-energético para novilhas em pastejo

The use of functional oil as an additive is a potential alternative to replace inorganic antimicrobial agents. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding functional oil consisting of cashew and castor oil or monensin sodium to protein-energy supplement on the performance of 14-month-old Nellore x Red Angus heifers (initial mean body weight [BW] of 246 kg) raised on Tifton 85 pasture. The animals were randomly assigned to four treatments: 1) control (no supplementation); 2) addition of 2 g functional oil/animal/day, composed of 70% cashew oil and 30% castor oil; 3) addition of 4 g functional oil/animal/day, composed of 70% cashew oil and 30% castor oil, and 4) addition of 0.2 g monensin sodium/animal/day. The biomass availability and forage on offer were 5,940 kg dry matter/ha and 7.0 kg dry matter/100 kg BW/day, respectively. The average proportion of leaf blade, sheath plus stem and senescent material was 17.6%, 55.0% and 27.4%, respectively. The mean whole-plant contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and in vitro dry matter digestibility were 8.5%, 72.3% and 42.7%, respectively...

A utilização de óleo funcional como aditivos é uma alternativa em potencial como substituto de agentes antimicrobianos não orgânicos. O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da adição de óleo funciomal, composto de óleos de caju e manona, e da monensina sódica em suplemento protéico-energético no desempenho de novilhas mestiças Nelore x Red Angus, com 14 meses de idade e peso corporal (PC) médio inicial de 246 kg, em pastejo de Tifton 85. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos: 1) controle (sem suplementação); 2) adição de 2 g/animal/dia de óleo funcional, composto por 70% de óleo de caju e 30% de óleo de mamona, 3) adição de 4 g/animal/dia de óleo funciona, composto 70% de óleo de caju e 30% de óleo de mamona e 4) adição de 0,2 g/animal/dia de monensina sódica. A disponibilidade de biomassa forrageira e a oferta de forragem foram de 5.940 kg de matéria seca/ha e 7,0 kg de matéria seca/100 kg PC/dia. A proporção média de lâmina foliar, bainha mais colmo e material senescente foram de 17,6; 55,0 e 27,4%. Na planta inteira os teores médios de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca foram de 8,5%, 72,3% e 42,7%, respectivamente. Efeito significativo foi observado no ganho médio diário das novilhas que receberam monensina (0,576 g/dia) em relação as novilhas que não receberam o suplemento protéico-energético (0,290 g/dia). Já o suplemento com óleo funcional, composto de óleos de caju e mamona, proporcionaram ganhos de peso (0,426 g/dia) semelhantes (P>0,05) aos animais que receberam suplemento com monensina (0,576 g/dia)...

Monensin sodium and functional oil as additive in protein-energy supplement for pasture-fed heifers / Monensina sódica e óleo funcional como aditivo em suplemento protéico-energético para novilhas em pastejo

The use of functional oil as an additive is a potential alternative to replace inorganic antimicrobial agents. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding functional oil consisting of cashew and castor oil or monensin sodium to protein-energy supplement on the performance of 14-month-old Nellore x Red Angus heifers (initial mean body weight [BW] of 246 kg) raised on Tifton 85 pasture. The animals were randomly assigned to four treatments: 1) control (no supplementation); 2) addition of 2 g functional oil/animal/day, composed of 70% cashew oil and 30% castor oil; 3) addition of 4 g functional oil/animal/day, composed of 70% cashew oil and 30% castor oil, and 4) addition of 0.2 g monensin sodium/animal/day. The biomass availability and forage on offer were 5,940 kg dry matter/ha and 7.0 kg dry matter/100 kg BW/day, respectively. The average proportion of leaf blade, sheath plus stem and senescent material was 17.6%, 55.0% and 27.4%, respectively. The mean whole-plant contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and in vitro dry matter digestibility were 8.5%, 72.3% and 42.7%, respectively...(AU)

A utilização de óleo funcional como aditivos é uma alternativa em potencial como substituto de agentes antimicrobianos não orgânicos. O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da adição de óleo funciomal, composto de óleos de caju e manona, e da monensina sódica em suplemento protéico-energético no desempenho de novilhas mestiças Nelore x Red Angus, com 14 meses de idade e peso corporal (PC) médio inicial de 246 kg, em pastejo de Tifton 85. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos: 1) controle (sem suplementação); 2) adição de 2 g/animal/dia de óleo funcional, composto por 70% de óleo de caju e 30% de óleo de mamona, 3) adição de 4 g/animal/dia de óleo funciona, composto 70% de óleo de caju e 30% de óleo de mamona e 4) adição de 0,2 g/animal/dia de monensina sódica. A disponibilidade de biomassa forrageira e a oferta de forragem foram de 5.940 kg de matéria seca/ha e 7,0 kg de matéria seca/100 kg PC/dia. A proporção média de lâmina foliar, bainha mais colmo e material senescente foram de 17,6; 55,0 e 27,4%. Na planta inteira os teores médios de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca foram de 8,5%, 72,3% e 42,7%, respectivamente. Efeito significativo foi observado no ganho médio diário das novilhas que receberam monensina (0,576 g/dia) em relação as novilhas que não receberam o suplemento protéico-energético (0,290 g/dia). Já o suplemento com óleo funcional, composto de óleos de caju e mamona, proporcionaram ganhos de peso (0,426 g/dia) semelhantes (P>0,05) aos animais que receberam suplemento com monensina (0,576 g/dia)...(AU)

Glucose solution is more effective in relieving pain in neonates than non-nutritive sucking: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have compared the analgesic effect of 25% glucose and non-nutritive sucking. We compared the analgesic effect of 25% glucose and non-nutritive sucking in newborns undergoing hepatitis B vaccination. Our hypothesis is that 25% glucose is more effective in relieving pain than non-nutritive sucking. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial with 78 healthy newborns was performed. Neonates were assigned randomly to receive 25% glucose (G25) and non-nutritive sucking (NNS). Pain was assessed using the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS) before and during the immunization procedure. In addition, we evaluated various physiological parameters and crying time. RESULTS: Neonates who received 25% glucose registered lower NIPS scores than those from the NNS group [mean (SD), 3.3 (2.1) vs. 5.6 (1.6), p < 0.001]. The crying time was shorter among newborns in the G25 group than in the NNS and control groups. CONCLUSION: The use of 25% glucose before the vaccination procedure was more effective in relieving acute pain, with newborns in the G25 group registering scores two times lower on the NIPS scale. The clinical practice of administering 25% glucose is therefore a suggested nondrug measure for pain relief during painful procedures. SIGNIFICANCE: Neonates who received 25% glucose registered lower NIPS scores than those from the NNS group; the crying time was shorter among newborns in the G25 group than in the NNS and control groups; the use of 25% glucose before the vaccination procedure was more effective in relieving acute pain.

Prótesis en artroplastia total de cadera y recubrimientos bioactivos de quitosano para mejorar su desempeño / Prostheses in total hip arthroplasty and chitosan bioactive coatings to improve their performance / Prótese em artroplastia total de quadril e quitosana bioactivos revestimentos para melhorar o desempenho

La artroplastia total de cadera (ATC) es un procedimiento común en el campo de la traumatología. Esta consiste en la sustitución o el reemplazo de la cadera por un sistema predominantemente metálico en los casos en que los principales componentes de la articulación han sido afectados de manera irreversible. Entre los metales más comúnmente utilizados en prótesis de ATC se encuentra el titanio y sus aleaciones, en especial Ti6Al4V debido a sus óptimas propiedades mecánicas y resistencia a la corrosión. Estas prótesis pueden ser cementadas y no-cementadas, cada una con ventajas y desventajas prácticas, pero con limitaciones comunes como la suceptibilidad a las infecciones, la poca capacidad de osteointegración y la alta dependencia a la tecnica quirurgica empleada por el medico. Particularmente, el crecimiento del hueso en la superficie del implante se ha promovido bien sea creando rugosidad superficial o mediante recubrimientos de fosfatos cálcicos como la hidroxiapatita, logrando de esta manera aumentar la vida util de las protesis, aunque aun no lo suficiente para evitar cirugias posteriores (artroplastia de revisión) especialmente para pacientes jóvenes. Es por esto que se proponen recubrimientos bioactivos a partir de biopolímeros. El quitosano, polimero natural que se obtiene a partir del exoesqueleto de crustáceos, destaca entre los más utilizados para este fin debido a que su estructura quimica le confiere adecuada biocompatibilidad y versatilidad para ser combinado con otras sustancias o moleculas. Los recubrimientos a base de quitosano se han desarrollado a través de interacciones físicas por inmersión, capas polielectrolíticas utilizando polímeros naturales aniónicos, y la creación de enlaces covalentes por el método de silanización el cual permite activar la superficie oxidada del metal con monomeros de silicio que contienen al menos un enlace carbono-silico y que son altamente reactivos con biomoléculas. Los recubrimientos de quitosano también han sido utilizados para la encapsulación y liberacion controlada de factores de crecimiento y diferenciación, confiriéndoles no solo una bioactividad sino osteoinductividad en la interfase metal-tejido, permitiendo la deposicion de matriz extracelular osea y finalmente el crecimiento de hueso en la superficie del implante. Dados los numerosos estudios realizados, los recubrimientos de quitosano tienen un futuro promisorio en aplicaciones prácticas de cirugía ortopédica. Específicamente, este artículo describe los recubrimientos de quitosano como una alternativa viable para la problematica actual asociada a la pobre osteointegracion de componentes metalicos en la ATC.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common procedure in traumatology. It consists in the substitution or replacement of the hip by a predominantly metallic system in the cases in which the main joint components have been irreversibly affected. Among the most widely used metals in THA prostheses, titanium and its alloys are found, especially Ti6Al4V due to its optimal mechanical properties and resistance to corrosion. These prostheses can be cemented or non-cemented, each one with advantages and disadvantages, but with common problems such as susceptibility to infection, poor osseointegration and high dependence on the surgical technique. In particular, the growth of bone into the implant surface has been promoted through either surface roughness or by creating coatings of calcium phosphates such as hydroxyapatite, thus achieving increases in the life of the prosthesis, but still not enough to avoid subsequent surgeries (revision arthroplasty) especially for young patients. In this sense, biopolymerbased bioactive coatings have been proposed. Chitosan, obtained from crustacean cytoskeleton, stands out among the polymers used for this purpose due its chemical structure that allows it to have appropriate biocompatibility, and versatility to be combined with other substances or molecules. Chitosan-based coatings have been developed through physical interactions by immersion, polyelectrolyte layers using anionic natural polymers, and the creation of covalent links via silanization, which activates the metal surface with silicon monomers containing at least one biomolecules highly reactive carbon-silico bond. These coatings have also been used to encapsulate growth and differentiation factors, conferring them not only bioactivity but also osseoinductivity at the metal-tissue interface allowing bone extracellular matrix deposition onto the implant surface. Due to the numerous studies carried out, it can be said that polymeric coatings have a promising future in orthopedic surgery. Specifically, this article describes the chitosan coatings as a feasible alternative to the current problem associated to the poor osseointegration of metallic components in the THA.

A artroplastia total do quadril (ATQ) é um procedimento comum na área de traumatologia. Este é o sistema de substituição de substituição ou de quadril para predominantemente de metal nos casos em que os principais componentes da articulação são afetados de forma irreversível. Entre a prótese mais utilizada é ATC metais titânio e suas ligas, particularmente TÍ6AI4V por causa das suas excelentes propriedades mecânicas e de resistência à corrosão. Estas próteses podem ser cimentadas e não-cimentadas, cada um com vantagens e desvantagens práticas, mas com limitações comuns, tais como a susceptibilidade à infecção, má capacidade de osseointegração e alta dependência da técnica cirúrgica utilizada pelo médico. Particularmente o crescimento ósseo na superfície do implante tenha sido promovida quer a criação de rugosidade da superfície ou por revestimento de fosfatos de cálcio, tais como hidroxiapatita, conseguindo assim aumentar a vida útil da prótese, embora ainda não é suficiente para evitar posteriores cirurgias (artroplastia de revisão), especialmente para pacientes jovens. É por isso proposta revestimentos bioactivos de biopolímeros. O quitosano, um polímero natural que é derivado do exoesqueleto de crustáceos, destaca-se entre os mais amplamente utilizados para este fim, porque a sua estrutura química proporciona biocompatibilidade e versatilidade adequada para ser combinado com outras substâncias ou moléculas. Os revestimentos à base de quitosano têm sido desenvolvidos através de camadas de polielectrólito interacções físicas de imersão utilizando polímeros naturais aniónicos, e criação de ligações covalentes pelo método de silanização que activa a superfície de metal oxidado com monómeros contendo silício pelo menos uma ligação carbono-silício e que são altamente reactivos com ligação biomoléculas. Revestimentos de quitosano também foram utilizados para a encapsulação e controlada factores de crescimento e diferenciação de libertação, não só confere bioactividade mas osteoindutividade na interface metal-tecido, permitindo a deposição de matriz extracelular óssea e finalmente o crescimento do osso em superfície do implante. Tendo em conta os numerosos estudos, revestimentos de quitosana tem um futuro promissor em aplicações práticas de cirurgia ortopédica. Especificamente, este artigo descreve revestimentos de quitosana como uma alternativa viável para os problemas actuais associados à má osseointegração de componentes metálicos no ATC.

Método de amostragem e caracterização química da forragem consumida por bovinos em pasto consorciado de aveia e azevém / Method of sampling and chemical characterization of forage intake by cattle in pasture ryegrass intercropping oats

O presente ensaio foi conduzido com o objetivo de se estudarem diferentes métodos de amostragem de pasto e de se estimar a composição química da dieta consumida por novilhos Holandeses, mantidos em pastagem consorciada de aveia preta (Avena strigosa Schreb) e azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam). Os métodos avaliados foram o corte da forragem rente ao solo (CFRS), o pastejo simulado (PSI) e a coleta de extrusa ruminal (CERU). Os teores médios de proteína bruta (PB), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) foram de 9,7; 62,2; 64,5 e 33,1% para o tratamento CFRS; de 9,8; 65,4; 59,6 e 30,0% para o PSI, e de 11,4; 70,8; 51,6 e 25,5% para CERU, respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatística entre os métodos CFRS e PSI, todavia, em relação ao método CERU, ambos subestimaram a concentração proteica e a energética, e superestimaram a quantidade de parede celular presente na dieta. Conclui-se que a coleta da extrusa ruminal pode ser um método adequado para caracterizar a dieta consumida por novilhos em pastagem consorciada de aveia e azevém.

The experiment was conducted to study different methods of pasture sampling, to estimate the chemical composition of the diet of Holstein steer, and grazing pasture of oat (Avena strigosa Schreb)and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam). The methods evaluated were Clipping Close by Soil (CCS), Hand-Plucking (HPL) and Rumen Evacuation (REV). The averages for crude protein (CP), total digestible nutrients (TDN), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were 9.7, 62.2, 64.5 and 33.1% for the CCS treatment; 9.8, 65.4, 59.6 and 30.0% for HPL, and 11.4, 70.8, 51.6 and 25.5% for REV, respectively. There was no statistical difference between CCS and HPL methods, however, in relation to the REV method, both underestimated protein and energy concentration, and overestimated the amount of cell walls in the diet. The conclusion is that rumen evacuation may be an adequate method to characterize the diet consumed by steers on oats and ryegrass pastures.

Método de amostragem e caracterização química da forragem consumida por bovinos em pasto consorciado de aveia e azevém / Method of sampling and chemical characterization of forage intake by cattle in pasture ryegrass intercropping oats

O presente ensaio foi conduzido com o objetivo de se estudarem diferentes métodos de amostragem de pasto e de se estimar a composição química da dieta consumida por novilhos Holandeses, mantidos em pastagem consorciada de aveia preta (Avena strigosa Schreb) e azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam). Os métodos avaliados foram o corte da forragem rente ao solo (CFRS), o pastejo simulado (PSI) e a coleta de extrusa ruminal (CERU). Os teores médios de proteína bruta (PB), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) foram de 9,7; 62,2; 64,5 e 33,1% para o tratamento CFRS; de 9,8; 65,4; 59,6 e 30,0% para o PSI, e de 11,4; 70,8; 51,6 e 25,5% para CERU, respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatística entre os métodos CFRS e PSI, todavia, em relação ao método CERU, ambos subestimaram a concentração proteica e a energética, e superestimaram a quantidade de parede celular presente na dieta. Conclui-se que a coleta da extrusa ruminal pode ser um método adequado para caracterizar a dieta consumida por novilhos em pastagem consorciada de aveia e azevém.(AU)

The experiment was conducted to study different methods of pasture sampling, to estimate the chemical composition of the diet of Holstein steer, and grazing pasture of oat (Avena strigosa Schreb)and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam). The methods evaluated were Clipping Close by Soil (CCS), Hand-Plucking (HPL) and Rumen Evacuation (REV). The averages for crude protein (CP), total digestible nutrients (TDN), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were 9.7, 62.2, 64.5 and 33.1% for the CCS treatment; 9.8, 65.4, 59.6 and 30.0% for HPL, and 11.4, 70.8, 51.6 and 25.5% for REV, respectively. There was no statistical difference between CCS and HPL methods, however, in relation to the REV method, both underestimated protein and energy concentration, and overestimated the amount of cell walls in the diet. The conclusion is that rumen evacuation may be an adequate method to characterize the diet consumed by steers on oats and ryegrass pastures.(AU)