Comparative study of cystoscopic control vs. radiological control in the endoscopic treatment of primary obstructive megaurater. / Estudio comparativo del control cistoscópico vs control radiológico para el tratamiento endoscópico del megauréter obstructivo primario.

OBJECTIVE: High-pressure balloon pneumatic dilatation for the treatment of primary obstructive megaureter (POM) was initially described under cystoscopic and radiological control. However, some groups use cystoscopic control only, in an attempt to avoid the ionizing radiation associated with the procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of POM patients treated with pneumatic dilatation in our unit from 2008 to 2021 was carried out. Success rates, complications, and follow-up were compared between two groups -dilatation under cystoscopic control alone (CS) vs. dilatation under radiological control only (RX). RESULTS: 23 patients -9 CS and 14 RX- underwent surgery. Both groups were demographically comparable. Mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in the CS group (1 vs. 2 days; p = 0.009). Operating time was longer in the RX group (78 vs. 30 min; p = 0.001). Ureterovesical junction (UVJ) dilatation was successful in 100% of CS vs. 79% of RX cases; RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). Postoperative complications were similar in both groups; RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). Double J stent migration occurred in one case in both groups; RR: 0.64 (0.05-9.03). In the long-term, treatment success rate was higher in the CS group (100% vs. 71%); RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). CONCLUSION: POM pneumatic dilatation under cystoscopic control alone is faster, without increasing the risk of complications. Based on our experience, we suggest ionizing radiation be removed, since we consider it to be unnecessary.

OBJETIVO: La dilatación neumática con balón de alta presión para el tratamiento del megauréter obstructivo primario (MOP) fue descrita inicialmente bajo control cistoscópico y radioscópico. Sin embargo, algunos grupos utilizan únicamente el control cistoscópico, con la intención de evitar la radiación ionizante asociada al procedimiento. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo que incluye los MOP tratados mediante dilatación neumática en nuestro servicio entre 2008 y 2021. Comparamos tasa de éxito, complicaciones y seguimiento entre dos grupos: dilatación bajo control cistoscópico exclusivo (CS) vs control radioscópico exclusivo (RX). RESULTADOS: Intervenimos 23 pacientes: 9 CS y 14 RX. Ambos grupos fueron demográficamente comparables. La estancia media hospitalaria fue significativamente menor en el grupo CS (1 vs 2 días; p 0,009). El tiempo quirúrgico fue mayor en el grupo RX (78 vs 30 min; p 0,001). La dilatación de la unión vesicoureteral (UVU) fue satisfactoria 100% CS vs 79% RX: RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). Las complicaciones postoperatorias fueron similares para ambos grupos, RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). La migración del catéter doble J ocurrió en un caso en ambos grupos: RR 0,64 (0,05-9,03). A largo plazo, la tasa de éxito del tratamiento fue mayor para el grupo CS (100% vS 71%); RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). CONCLUSION: La dilatación neumática del MOP bajo control cistoscópico exclusivo es más rápida de realizar, sin aumentar por ello el riesgo de complicaciones. Basándonos en nuestra experiencia, proponemos eliminar la radiación ionizante a los pacientes durante el procedimiento, ya que la consideramos innecesaria.

Estudio comparativo del control cistoscópico vs control radiológico para el tratamiento endoscópico del megauréter obstructivo primario / Comparative study of cystoscopic control vs. radiological control in the endoscopic treatment of primary obstructive megaurater

Objetivo: La dilatación neumática con balón de alta presión para el tratamiento del megauréter obstructivo primario (MOP) fue descrita inicialmente bajo control cistoscópico y radioscópico. Sin embargo, algunos grupos utilizan únicamente el control cistoscópico, con la intención de evitar la radiación ionizante asociada al procedimiento. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo que incluye los MOP tratados mediante dilatación neumática en nuestro servicio entre 2008 y 2021. Comparamos tasa de éxito, complicaciones y seguimiento entre dos grupos: dilatación bajo control cistoscópico exclusivo (CS) vs control radioscópico exclusivo (RX). Resultados: Intervenimos 23 pacientes: 9 CS y 14 RX. Ambos grupos fueron demográficamente comparables. La estancia media hospitalaria fue significativamente menor en el grupo CS (1 vs 2 días; p0,009). El tiempo quirúrgico fue mayor en el grupo RX (78 vs 30 min; p0,001). La dilatación de la unión vesicoureteral (UVU) fue satisfactoria 100% CS vs 79% RX: RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). Las complicaciones postoperatorias fueron similares para ambos grupos, RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). La migración del catéter doble J ocurrió en un caso en ambos grupos: RR 0,64 (0,05-9,03). A largo plazo, la tasa de éxito del tratamiento fue mayor para el grupo CS (100% vS 71%); RR 3,87 (0,51-26,99). Conclusión: La dilatación neumática del MOP bajo control cistoscópico exclusivo es más rápida de realizar, sin aumentar por ello el riesgo de complicaciones. Basándonos en nuestra experiencia, proponemos eliminar la radiación ionizante a los pacientes durante el procedimiento, ya que la consideramos innecesaria.(AU)

Objective: High-pressure balloon pneumatic dilatation for the treatment of primary obstructive megaureter (POM) was initially described under cystoscopic and radiological control. However, some groups use cystoscopic control only, in an attempt to avoid the ionizing radiation associated with the procedure. Materials and methods: A retrospective study of POM patients treated with pneumatic dilatation in our unit from 2008 to 2021 was carried out. Success rates, complications, and follow-up were compared between two groups –dilatation under cystoscopic control alone (CS) vs. dilatation under radiological control only (RX). Results: 23 patients –9 CS and 14 RX– underwent surgery. Both groups were demographically comparable. Mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in the CS group (1 vs. 2 days; p = 0.009). Operating time was longer in the RX group (78 vs. 30 min; p = 0.001). Ureterovesical junction (UVJ) dilatation was successful in 100% of CS vs. 79% of RX cases; RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). Postoperative complications were similar in both groups; RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). Double J stent migration occurred in one case in both groups; RR: 0.64 (0.05-9.03). In the long-term, treatment success rate was higher in the CS group (100% vs. 71%); RR: 3.87 (0.51-26.99). Conclusion: POM pneumatic dilatation under cystoscopic control alone is faster, without increasing the risk of complications. Based on our experience, we suggest ionizing radiation be removed, since we consider it to be unnecessary.(AU)

Congenital malformations of the urinary tract: progression to chronic renal disease. / Malformaciones congénitas del tracto urinario (CAKUT): evolución a enfermedad renal crónica.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital nephrourological abnormalities (CAKUT) are a particularly relevant group of diseases due to their high prevalence and the fact they are the main cause of chronic renal disease (CRD) in the pediatric population. Our objective was to determine the characteristics and prevalence of CAKUT in our setting, while identifying the factors associated with the occurrence of renal damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study of patients seen in the Pediatric Nephrology Department of a third-level hospital from January 1 to December 31, 2018 was carried out. Epidemiological, clinical, and analytical variables were assessed, and potential risk factors associated with CRD were searched for. RESULTS: The study involved 685 patients with 827 kidney units affected by CAKUT with a mean age of 9.98 ± 5.12 years. 62.2% were male, and the mean follow-up period after diagnosis was 9.95 ± 5.09 years. 58.8% were non-obstructive dilations, followed by renal dysplasia, obstructive dilations, and number and position abnormalities. The most frequent malformation was vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). The most commonly affected side was the left (47.5%). 55% of the diagnoses were prenatal. 172 patients underwent surgery. The initially chosen treatment for VUR was endourological. Overall re-intervention rate was 20%. Of the total number of patients, glomerular filtration rate was analyzed in 383, 95 (24.8%) of whom had CRD (86% in stage 2). Male sex, bilaterality, and proteinuria were risk factors associated with CRD. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of children with CAKUT and the factors associated with CRD helps to individualize the clinical follow-up of these patients, thus customizing diagnostic tests and healthcare resources.

INTRODUCCION: Las anomalías nefrourológicas congénitas (CAKUT), constituyen un grupo de enfermedades de gran relevancia por su alta prevalencia y por ser la principal causa de enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) en la población pediátrica. Nuestro objetivo es conocer las características y la prevalencia de CAKUT en nuestro medio, identificando los factores asociados a la aparición de daño renal. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, analítico y transversal, que incluyó los pacientes atendidos en la consulta de Nefrología Pediátrica de un hospital de tercer nivel desde el 1 de enero al 31 de diciembre de 2018. Se analizaron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas y analíticas, y se buscaron posibles factores de riesgo asociados a ERC. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 685 pacientes con 827 unidades renales con CAKUT con una edad media de 9,98 ± 5,12 años. El 62,2% fueron varones y el seguimiento medio desde el diagnóstico fue de 9,95 ± 5,09 años. El 58,8% fueron dilataciones no obstructivas, seguido por displasia renal, dilataciones obstructivas y anomalías de número y posición. La malformación más frecuente fue el reflujo vesicoureteral (RVU). El lado más afectado fue el izquierdo (47,5%). El 55% de los diagnósticos fueron prenatales. Fueron intervenidos 172 pacientes. El tratamiento inicial de elección en el RVU fue endourológico. La tasa de reintervención global alcanzó el 20%. Del total de pacientes, se pudo analizar el filtrado glomerular en 383 pacientes, de los cuales 95 (24,8%) tenían ERC (86% en estadio 2). El sexo masculino, la bilateralidad y la proteinuria fueron factores de riesgo asociados a la ERC. CONCLUSIONES: El conocimiento de las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de los niños con CAKUT y de los factores asociados a la ERC ayuda a individualizar el seguimiento clínico de estos pacientes adecuando las pruebas diagnósticas y los recursos sanitarios.

Malformaciones congénitas del tracto urinario(CAKUT): evolución a enfermedad renal crónica / Congenital malformations of the urinary tract: progression to chronic renal disease

Introducción: Las anomalías nefrourológicas congénitas (CAKUT),constituyen un grupo de enfermedades de gran relevancia por su altaprevalencia y por ser la principal causa de enfermedad renal crónica(ERC) en la población pediátrica. Nuestro objetivo es conocer las ca-racterísticas y la prevalencia de CAKUT en nuestro medio, identificandolos factores asociados a la aparición de daño renal. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, analíticoy transversal, que incluyó los pacientes atendidos en la consulta deNefrología Pediátrica de un hospital de tercer nivel desde el 1 de eneroal 31 de diciembre de 2018. Se analizaron variables epidemiológicas,clínicas y analíticas, y se buscaron posibles factores de riesgo aso-ciados a ERC.Resultados: Se incluyeron 685 pacientes con 827 unidades rena-les con CAKUT con una edad media de 9,98 ± 5,12 años. El 62,2%fueron varones y el seguimiento medio desde el diagnóstico fue de9,95 ± 5,09 años. El 58,8% fueron dilataciones no obstructivas, se-guido por displasia renal, dilataciones obstructivas y anomalías denúmero y posición. La malformación más frecuente fue el reflujovesicoureteral (RVU). El lado más afectado fue el izquierdo (47,5%).El 55% de los diagnósticos fueron prenatales. Fueron intervenidos172 pacientes. El tratamiento inicial de elección en el RVU fue en-dourológico. La tasa de reintervención global alcanzó el 20%. Deltotal de pacientes, se pudo analizar el filtrado glomerular en 383pacientes, de los cuales 95 (24,8%) tenían ERC (86% en estadio 2).El sexo masculino, la bilateralidad y la proteinuria fueron factoresde riesgo asociados a la ERC. Conclusiones: El conocimiento de las características epidemioló-gicas y clínicas de los niños con CAKUT y de los factores asociados ala ERC ayuda a individualizar el seguimiento clínico de estos pacientesadecuando las pruebas diagnósticas y los recursos sanitarios.(AU)

Introduction: Congenital nephrourological abnormalities (CAKUT)are a particularly relevant group of diseases due to their high prevalenceand the fact they are the main cause of chronic renal disease (CRD) in thepediatric population. Our objective was to determine the characteristicsand prevalence of CAKUT in our setting, while identifying the factorsassociated with the occurrence of renal damage. Materials and methods: A retrospective, descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study of patients seen in the Pediatric NephrologyDepartment of a third-level hospital from January 1 to December 31,2018 was carried out. Epidemiological, clinical, and analytical variables were assessed, and potential risk factors associated with CRDwere searched for.Results: The study involved 685 patients with 827 kidney unitsaffected by CAKUT with a mean age of 9.98 ± 5.12 years. 62.2% weremale, and the mean follow-up period after diagnosis was 9.95 ± 5.09years. 58.8% were non-obstructive dilations, followed by renal dysplasia,obstructive dilations, and number and position abnormalities. The mostfrequent malformation was vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). The most commonly affected side was the left (47.5%). 55% of the diagnoses wereprenatal. 172 patients underwent surgery. The initially chosen treatmentfor VUR was endourological. Overall re-intervention rate was 20%. Ofthe total number of patients, glomerular filtration rate was analyzed in383, 95 (24.8%) of whom had CRD (86% in stage 2). Male sex, bilateral ity, and proteinuria were risk factors associated with CRD. Conclusions: Knowledge of the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of children with CAKUT and the factors associated withCRD helps to individualize the clinical follow-up of these patients, thuscustomizing diagnostic tests and healthcare resources.(AU)

Peripheral ossifying fibroma: A 20-year retrospective study with focus on clinical and morphological features.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma (POF) is a reactive hyperplastic lesion that exclusively occurs in the gingiva and is characterized by the deposition of dystrophic calcification, cementum-like tissue, and immature and mature bone within the connective tissue. The objective of the present study was to perform a retrospective analysis of clinicopathologic features of POF. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical and histopathological data were obtained from biopsy records and histopathological reports from a Brazilian reference service in Oral Pathology (1999 - 2020). Morphological analysis was performed to evaluate features related to the mesenchymal component, inflammatory infiltrate, ulceration, and mineralized tissue. RESULTS: A total of 270 POFs were diagnosed during the study period. A higher frequency was observed in females (71.9%) between the third (22.9%) and fourth (23.3%) decades of life. The anterior upper gingiva (29.1%) was the most affected region. Mature (86.7%) and immature (52.6%) bone tissue were the most frequent. There was a significant association between immature bone deposition and lesions with size ≤ 1.7 cm (p = 0.041); immature bone and cement-like tissue deposition with an evolution time ≤ 16 months (p < 0.001); deposition of immature bone and mesenchymal hypercellularization (p < 0.001); deposition of dystrophic calcification and the presence of ulceration (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The clinical characteristics corroborate the findings in the literature. The heterogeneous distribution and quantity of mineralized tissues found in the analyzed cases support the theory that the different mineralized tissues constitute a spectrum of clinical maturation of POF.

The effect of two anionic membranes (AMI 7001s and Neosepta AMX) on the electrodeposition of manganese from sulphate solutions.

The effect of two different anionic membranes on manganese deposition was studied in a two-compartment electrochemical reactor with a titanium cathode and a dimensionally stable RuO2|Ti anode. Chronopotentiometry, ICP-OES, SEM, XRD and elemental mapping were used to understand the changes in concentration and characteristics of the metallic deposition at different current densities with the anionic membranes AMI 7001s and Neosepta AMX. The results demonstrate that AMI reduces more manganese than AMX below -100 A m-2, generating more metallic deposition but also more low-solubility manganous by-products, whereas both membranes exhibited similar behaviours above -100 A m-2 reaching the maximum current efficiency (63%) at -200 A m-2. It was also observed that the membranes have a significant effect on sulphate consumption since they are anions.

Crude extract of Jatobá leaves promotes canine osteosarcoma cell D17 proliferation.

Background and Aim: New substances for neoplasm treatment have to be carefully studied to minimize adverse effects and prevent disease progression stimulation. Jatobá is a typical tree of the Cerrado and Caatinga biome, with antifungal, antimicrobial, larvicide, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties. This study aimed to investigate the action of the crude extract of Jatobá leaves (EBFJ) on canine osteosarcoma (CO) cells and analyze the expression of biomarkers in neoplasm progression. Materials and Methods: D17 cells were cultured and subjected to treatment with EBFJ at different concentrations (10 µg/mL; 100 µg/mL; 1000 µg/mL; 2000 µg/mL; and 5000 µg/mL) and exposure times (24 h, 48 h, and 72 h). The tetrazolium reduction assay and the immunocytochemistry technique, with anti-Bcl2, anti-p53, and anti-Ki-67 antibodies, were used to observe the effect of the extract on cell proliferation. Results: Doses of 2000 µg and 5000 µg had cell viability of 300.80% and 361.84%, respectively. The extract did not show significant cytotoxicity of samples with the control group. The confluence of cells, the number of labeled cells, and the expression of Bcl2, Ki-67, and p53 were higher in the groups treated with EBFJ, with a statistical difference from the group without treatment. Conclusion: EBFJ was not cytotoxic and had a proliferative effect on CO D17 cells. The confluence of cells, the number of labeled cells, and the expression of Bcl2, Ki-67, and p53 were higher in the groups treated with the extract.

Androgen-deprivation therapy and cognitive decline in the NEON-PC prospective study during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) has been associated with cognitive decline, but results are conflicting. This study describes changes in cognitive performance in patients with prostate cancer, according to ADT, during the first year after prostate cancer diagnosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with prostate cancer treated at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (n = 366) were evaluated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), before treatment and after 1 year. All baseline evaluations were performed before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and 69.7% of the 1-year assessments were completed after the first lockdown. Cognitive decline was defined as the decrease in MoCA from baseline to the 1-year evaluation below 1.5 standard deviations of the distribution of changes in the whole cohort. Participants scoring below age- and education-specific normative reference values in the MoCA were considered to have cognitive impairment. Age- and education-adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were computed for the association between ADT and cognitive outcomes. RESULTS: Mean MoCA scores increased from baseline to the 1-year evaluation (22.3 versus 22.8, P < 0.001). Cognitive decline was more frequent in the ADT group, and even more after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (aOR 6.81 versus 1.93, P for interaction = 0.233). The 1-year cumulative incidence of cognitive impairment was 6.9% (9.1% before and 3.7% after the pandemic onset), which was higher among patients receiving ADT, but only after the pandemic (aOR 5.53 versus 0.49, P for interaction = 0.044). CONCLUSIONS: ADT was associated with worse cognitive performance of patients with prostate cancer, mostly among those evaluated after the first COVID-19 lockdown.

Expression and novel alternative purification of the recombinant nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-CoV-2 in Escherichia coli for the serodiagnosis of COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causes severe acute respiratory syndrome and has caused a global pandemic by causing the COVID-19 disease. To monitor and control it, diagnostic methods such as molecular and serological tests are necessary. The serological approach uses SARS-CoV-2 antigens to detect the antibodies present in patients using quantitative techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or qualitative rapid tests such as lateral flow chromatography (RDTs). The main antigens used are the spike protein (S) and the nucleocapsid protein (N). Both proteins are obtained in different expression systems, in eukaryotic cells, their production is expensive, so in this work we chose a simpler and cheaper system such as prokaryotic to express and purify the N protein. Thereore, the nucleotide sequence had to being optimized to be expressed in Escherichia coli. The protein N is sensitive to E.coli proteases and also has the ability to self-proteolyze under native conditions, degrading into different fragments. However, under denaturing conditions, using urea and at pH 5.3 it is stable and efficiently purified using metal exchange chromatography (IMAC). In our purification strategy, we surprisingly found that by not using a sonicator, a homogeneous and time-stable preparation of the recombinant antigen is obtained. An approximate yield of 200 mg / L was obtained. It was then tested with healthy sera and sera from COVID-19 convalescent patients in Wester-blot tests that were able to recognize it. Our work provides a novel strategy to produce the SARS-CoV-2 protein N so that it can be used as an input in the development and innovation of serological tests in the diagnosis of COVID-19.

Clinicopathologic features of nasopalatine duct cysts: A retrospective study in two Brazilian oral and maxillofacial pathology referral centers.

BACKGROUND: Nasopalatine duct cyst (NDC) is the most common non-odontogenic cyst in the oral cavity. Clinically it is not difficult to suspect these lesions based on clinical and radiographic appearance. However, the histopathological diagnosis may be difficult due to the broad morphological diversity of these lesions. The objective was to analyze the clinicopathological features of NDCs diagnosed in two oral and maxillofacial pathology services in the Brazilian northeast. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective clinicopathologic study was performed. A total of 18,121 clinical records of oral lesions from two oral and maxillofacial pathology services in Brazil were analyzed (2000-2020). All NDCs cases were revised and demographic, clinical, radiographic, and histopathological data were collected. RESULTS: Among 18,121 diagnoses in the oral pathology services, 45 (0.2%) were NDCs. The series comprises 24 males (53.3%) and 21 females (46.7%), with a mean age of 43.2 years-old. Most lesions were asymptomatic (n = 27, 60%) with an mean size of 2.1 cm. Microscopically, the non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium was the most common (66.7%). However, in 88.9% of cases, the epithelial lining was varied and composed of two or more types of epithelium. There was no significant association between the type of epithelium and the size of the cysts (p = 0.389). Nerve, blood vessels, hemorrhage, and chronic inflammatory infiltrate were commonly observed. In contrast, there was a low frequency of mucous glands, sebaceous glands, cholesterol clefts, and multinucleated giant cells. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical, radiographic, and microscopic findings observed in this study are similar to those reported in the literature. Due to the morphological diversity of NDC, it is needed to correlate its histopathological features with the clinical and radiographic findings to establish a correct diagnosis.

Oxidonitrergic and antioxidant effects of a low molecular weight peptide fraction from hardened bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) on endothelium.

About 3000 tons of beans are not used in human food due to hardening. Several studies on bean-derived bioactive peptides have shown potential to treat some diseases, including those relying on oxidative dysfunctions. We assessed the effects of peptides extracted from hardened bean Phaseolus vulgaris (PV) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production, cytotoxic and cytoprotective effects in endothelial cells, and oxidonitrergic-dependent vasodilating effects. Extract was composed by peptide fraction <3 kDa (PV3) from hardened common bean residue. PV3 sequences were obtained and analyzed with bioinformatics. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with 10, 20, 30, and 250 µg/mL PV3. Oxidative stress was provoked by 3% H2O2. Cytotoxicity and cytoprotective effects were evaluated by MTT assay, whereas, ROS and NO were quantified using DHE and DAF-FM fluorescent probes by confocal microscopy. NO- and endothelium-dependent vasodilating effects of PV3 were assessed in isolated aortic rings. We found 35 peptides with an average mass of 1.14 kDa. There were no cell deaths with 10 and 20 µg/mL PV3. PV3 at 30 µg/mL increased cell viability, while cytotoxicity was observed only with 250 µg/mL PV3. PV3 at 10 µg/mL was able to protect cells from oxidative stress. PV3 also increased NO release without causing cell death. It also reduced relative ROS production induced by H2O2. PV3 vasodilating effects relied on endothelium-dependent NO release. PV3 obtained from low-commercial-value bean displays little cytotoxicity and exerts antioxidant effects, whereas it increases endothelial NO release.

Revisiting Polymer-Particle Interaction in PEO Solutions.

We have measured the electrophoretic mobility and diffusion coefficient of carboxylate-modified and sulfate-modified polystyrene latex particles in poly(ethylene oxide) aqueous solutions. Carboxylate-modified polystyrene particles have shown a bound polymeric layer as the surface net charge vanishes even at very low poly(ethylene oxide) concentration. The polymeric layer causes a lower electrophoretic mobility and slower Brownian diffusion than that corresponding to the bare particles. We show that the diffusion is the result of a significantly increased effective particle size 2rheff = 30 nm. This bound layer is not present in sulfate-modified polystyrene latex particles. The interaction between the carboxylate-modified particle surface and the macromolecules has been confirmed by means of atomistic computer simulations. The grafted acrylate copolymers, which come from the preparation procedure of the latex particles, confer more hydrophobic surface ready to interact with the polymer. The simulations suggest that the interaction is modulated not only by the nature of the acrylic acid monomer but also by the length of the grafted copolymer. Our results have important implications for particle selection in microrheology experiments.

Quinacrine as a potential treatment for COVID-19 virus infection.

A novel coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a current outbreak of infection termed Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by the World Health Organization (WHO). COVID-19 is currently a global pandemic that may cause close to half a billion deaths around the world. Until now, there is no effective treatment for COVID-19. Quinacrine (Qx) has been used since the 1930s as preventive antimalarial compound. It is a recognized small molecule inhibitor of RNA virus replication, with known anti-prion activity, and identified as a potent Ebola virus inhibitor both in vitro and in vivo. Recently, Qx has showed anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. Herein, we review the potential mechanisms associated with quinacrine as an antiviral compound.

Selenium and sulphur reactions involved in manganese reduction from sulphate solutions.

Electrochemical reduction of ionic species during manganese deposition from sulphated aqueous solutions has been studied in an electrochemical reactor with two anionic exchange membranes. Thermodynamic analysis, voltammetries, and chronopotentiometries were used to determine the reaction mechanism of the reductions developed, with the results demonstrating that the effect of the elemental selenium on the hydrogen evolution leads to the formation of elemental sulphur by reducing the sulphate ions with both membranes. It was also evident that in the range of -25 to -50 A m-2 the electrodeposition of metallic manganese begins, with minimal interference from parasitic reactions.

Oxidonitrergic and antioxidant effects of a low molecular weight peptide fraction from hardened bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) on endothelium

About 3000 tons of beans are not used in human food due to hardening. Several studies on bean-derived bioactive peptides have shown potential to treat some diseases, including those relying on oxidative dysfunctions. We assessed the effects of peptides extracted from hardened bean Phaseolus vulgaris (PV) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production, cytotoxic and cytoprotective effects in endothelial cells, and oxidonitrergic-dependent vasodilating effects. Extract was composed by peptide fraction <3 kDa (PV3) from hardened common bean residue. PV3 sequences were obtained and analyzed with bioinformatics. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with 10, 20, 30, and 250 µg/mL PV3. Oxidative stress was provoked by 3% H2O2. Cytotoxicity and cytoprotective effects were evaluated by MTT assay, whereas, ROS and NO were quantified using DHE and DAF-FM fluorescent probes by confocal microscopy. NO- and endothelium-dependent vasodilating effects of PV3 were assessed in isolated aortic rings. We found 35 peptides with an average mass of 1.14 kDa. There were no cell deaths with 10 and 20 μg/mL PV3. PV3 at 30 μg/mL increased cell viability, while cytotoxicity was observed only with 250 μg/mL PV3. PV3 at 10 μg/mL was able to protect cells from oxidative stress. PV3 also increased NO release without causing cell death. It also reduced relative ROS production induced by H2O2. PV3 vasodilating effects relied on endothelium-dependent NO release. PV3 obtained from low-commercial-value bean displays little cytotoxicity and exerts antioxidant effects, whereas it increases endothelial NO release.

Tratamiento de quemaduras mediante plasma heterólogo rico en plaquetas (PRPh). A propósito de un caso pediátrico / Treatmen of burns by heterologous rich platelet plasma (hRPP). About a pediatric case report

Presentamos un caso en el que empleamos con éxito plasma rico en plaquetas heterólogo (PRPh) para la reparación de una quemadura de difícil evolución en un paciente pediátrico. Mostramos la seguridad y eficacia del uso del PRPh proveniente de la madre en un caso de quemadura AB-A por agua caliente. Se trata de una paciente de 3 años de edad que fue intervenida quirúrgicamente en otro centro, sin resultados positivos y profundizándose, por lo que se vio complicada su recuperación. El objetivo fue regenerar el tejido afectado e inducir de manera asistida la formación de tejido epitelial utilizando PRPh de la madre de la paciente. Aplicamos técnica de curación cerrada en 2 sesiones ambulatorias mediante la aplicación de PRPh sin necesidad de procedimientos adicionales. No se presentaron complicaciones, signos de rechazo ni infecciones y la recuperación se obtuvo en 14 días

The safety and efficacy of the use of heterologous rich platelet plasma (hRPP) from the mother is shown in a case of AB-A burn by hot water. This is a 3-year-old patient who was surgically operated in another center, without positive results and deepening, so recovery was complicated. The objective was to regenerate the affected tissue and to induce in an assisted way the formation of epithelial tissue using hRPP from the patient's mother. We apply the closed healing technique in 2 outpatient sessions by applying hRPP without the need for additional procedures. There were no complications, signs of rejection or infections, and their recovery was obtained in 14 days

Histological classification and expression of markers of canine mast cell tumors.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Mast cell tumors (MCTs) are malignant neoplasms that are common in dogs. Their biological behavior is variable and unpredictable. The aim of the present study was to analyze the histological classification and expression of markers of canine MCTs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty samples of canine MCTs were graded according to the histological classification methods of Patnaik and those of Kiupel. The expression of phosphoprotein 53 (p53) and c-kit proteins was quantified by immunohistochemistry using image processing software, ImageJ - a public domain computer program, developed at the National Institutes of Health. RESULTS: It was possible to determine the grade of 100% of the samples. According to Patnaik's classification, 20.00% of the samples were Grade 1, 43.30% were Grade 2, and 36.70% were Grade 3. According to Kiupel's classification, 56.67% of the samples were of high intensity and 43.33% were of low intensity. Grade 1 tumors had the highest expression of p53 and c-kit, and Grade 2 had the lowest expression. The results showed that it is necessary to perform both histological grading methods. The classification into high and low intensity may provide more consistent results than the three-level grading system. However, a smaller number of categories, although it facilitates the classification, may not be sufficient for the prognosis. CONCLUSION: Quantitative evaluation of p-53 and c-kit expression is a useful tool to increase the accuracy of the analysis and to aid in choosing the treatment method for canine MCTs. Histological grading should be combined with other diagnostic methods.

N-Acetylcysteine Inhibits Kynurenine Aminotransferase II.

The tryptophan metabolite kynurenic acid (KYNA) may play an important role in normal and abnormal cognitive processes, most likely by interfering with α7 nicotinic and NMDA receptor function. KYNA is formed from its immediate precursor kynurenine either by non-enzymatic oxidation or through irreversible transamination by kynurenine aminotransferases. In the mammalian brain, kynurenine aminotransferase II (KAT II) is the principal enzyme responsible for the neosynthesis of rapidly mobilizable KYNA, and therefore constitutes an attractive target for pro-cognitive interventions. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a brain-penetrant drug with pro-cognitive efficacy in humans, has been proposed to exert its actions by increasing the levels of the anti-oxidant glutathione (GSH) in the brain. We report here that NAC, but not GSH, inhibits KAT II activity in brain tissue homogenates from rats and humans with IC50 values in the high micromolar to low millimolar range. With similar potency, the drug interfered with the de novo formation of KYNA in rat brain slices, and NAC was a competitive inhibitor of recombinant human KAT II (Ki: 450 µM). Furthermore, GSH failed to S-glutathionylate recombinant human KAT II treated with the dithiocarbamate drug disulfiram. Shown by microdialysis in the prefrontal cortex of rats treated with kynurenine (50 mg/kg, i.p.), peripheral administration of NAC (500 mg/kg, i.p., 120 and 60 min before the application of kynurenine) reduced KYNA neosynthesis by ∼50%. Together, these results suggest that NAC exerts its neurobiological effects at least in part by reducing cerebral KYNA formation via KAT II inhibition.

In vitro redox activity of haemozoin and ß-haemozoin interacting with the following antimalarials: artemether, lumefantrine and quinine.

OBJECTIVE: Malaria parasites invade, grow and multiply inside erythrocytes and obtain nourishment from haemoglobin. Then, the released haem group is oxidized to haematin and inert dimeric haemozoin bio-crystals form, which provides the parasite a unique way to avoid the toxicity associated with the haem group. Therefore, antimalarial drugs are designed to inhibit dimer formation; however, recent electrochemical studies indicate that an inert dimer also promotes a toxic oxidizing environment. Therefore, this work explores drug reactivity in the presence of monomers and dimers to evaluate their contribution to redox activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three medicines mixed with haemozoin or ß-haemozoin in carbon paste electrodes were tested using cyclic voltammetry. RESULTS: The data indicated again that the substances modify the natural redox state of haemozoin and ß-haemozoin. This effect could be attributed to the natural oxidation potential of the drugs. In addition, it was found that the oxidation potential decreased through quinine, lumefantrine and artemether with the same tendency in the presence of haemozoin but with less current density. Additionally, it was observed that the oxidation response between the monomer haemozoin and antimalarial drugs is carried out at more negative potentials. CONCLUSIONS: Together, the total results indicate that antimalarials per se can contribute to oxidation processes and that in combination with monomeric or dimeric haemozoin can increase or decrease the oxidizing power of the haemozoin forms. The various oxidizing environments suggest that the cell membranes can also be damaged by the unique presence of the antimalarial.