Beneficial Effects of Capybara Oil Supplementation on Steatosis and Liver Apoptosis in Obese Mice.

Obesity is a complex chronic disease characterized by excess body fat (adipose) that is harmful to health and has been a major global health problem. It may be associated with several diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are lipid mediators that have anti-inflammatory characteristics and can be found in animals and plants, with capybara oil (CO) being a promising source. So, we intend to evaluate the hepatic pathophysiological alterations in C57Bl/6 mice with NAFLD, caused by obesity, and the possible beneficial effects of OC in the treatment of this disease. Eighteen 3-month-old male C57Bl/6 mice received a control or high-fat diet for 18 weeks. From the 15th to the 18th week, the animals received treatment-through orogastric gavage-with placebo or free capybara oil (5 g/kg). Parameters inherent to body mass, glucose tolerance, evaluation of liver enzymes, percentage of hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress, the process of cell death with the apoptotic biomarkers (Bax, Bcl2, and Cytochrome C), and the ultrastructure of hepatocytes were analyzed. Even though the treatment with CO was not able to disassemble the effects on the physiological parameters, it proved to be beneficial in reversing the morphological and ultrastructural damage present in the hepatocytes. Thus, demonstrating that CO has beneficial effects in reducing steatosis and the apoptotic pathway, it is a promising treatment for NAFLD.

Capybara Oil Improves Renal Pathophysiology and Inflammation in Obese Mice.

Obesity is an inflammatory disease associated with secondary diseases such as kidney disease, which can cause lipotoxicity, inflammation and loss of organ function. Polyunsaturated fatty acids act in the production of lipid mediators and have anti-inflammatory characteristics. In this work, the objective was to evaluate renal histopathology in obese mice and the effects of treatment with capybara oil (CO) (5000 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks). Parameters such as body mass, lipid profile, systolic blood pressure, urinary creatinine and protein excretion, structure and ultrastructure of the renal cortex, fibrosis, tissue inflammation and oxidative stress were analyzed. CO treatment in obese mice showed improvement in the lipid profile and reduction in systolic blood pressure levels, in addition to beneficial remodeling of the renal cortex. Our data demonstrated that CO decreased inflammation, oxidative stress and renal fibrosis, as evidenced by quantifying the expression of TNF-α, IL-10, CAT, SOD, α-SMA and TGF-ß. Although treatment with CO did not show improvement in renal function, ultrastructural analysis showed that the treatment was effective in restoring podocytes and pedicels, with restructuring of the glomerular filtration barrier. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that treatment with CO is effective in reducing kidney damage, being considered a promising treatment for obesity.

Association of moderate and vigorous physical activity and relative muscle strength with neck circumference: a cross-sectional analysis of the Study of Health in Pomerode (SHIP-Brazil).

OBJECTIVE: Neck circumference is a simple anthropometric measurement that may be linked to chronic diseases, physical activity, and muscle strength. We sought to verify the association of moderate and vigorous physical activity levels and relative muscle strength with neck circumference in a community in southern Brazil. METHODS: We cross-sectionally analyzed data from 2,488 participants (51% women), aged 20-79 years old from the Study of Health in Pomerode (SHIP-Brazil) conducted in Pomerode, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Increased neck circumference was defined with cutoff points of >39cm for men and >35cm for women. The independent variables were the level of moderate and vigorous physical activity using the short International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and relative muscle strength using the handgrip test and body mass. Univariate and multiple Poisson regression models were used to determine the association between variables (p≤0.05). RESULTS: The prevalence of increased neck circumference was 48.2% (60.4% in men, 39.6% in women) and was associated with low relative muscle strength (PR=1.26, 95%CI: 1.17-1.35) in men, insufficient moderate and vigorous physical activity levels (PR=1.23, 95%CI: 1.14-1.32), and relative muscle strength (PR=1.73, 95%CI: 1.61-1.87) in women. After adjusting for covariates, no significant associations were observed between insufficient moderate and vigorous physical activity levels in men (PR=1.02, 95%CI: 0.95-1.07). CONCLUSION: Increased neck circumference seems to be an important predictor of low moderate and vigorous physical activity and relative strength loss in adults, and more pronounced in women.

Association of moderate and vigorous physical activity and relative muscle strength with neck circumference: a cross-sectional analysis of the Study of Health in Pomerode (SHIP-Brazil)

ABSTRACT Objective Neck circumference is a simple anthropometric measurement that may be linked to chronic diseases, physical activity, and muscle strength. We sought to verify the association of moderate and vigorous physical activity levels and relative muscle strength with neck circumference in a community in southern Brazil. Methods We cross-sectionally analyzed data from 2,488 participants (51% women), aged 20-79 years old from the Study of Health in Pomerode (SHIP-Brazil) conducted in Pomerode, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Increased neck circumference was defined with cutoff points of >39cm for men and >35cm for women. The independent variables were the level of moderate and vigorous physical activity using the short International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and relative muscle strength using the handgrip test and body mass. Univariate and multiple Poisson regression models were used to determine the association between variables (p≤0.05). Results The prevalence of increased neck circumference was 48.2% (60.4% in men, 39.6% in women) and was associated with low relative muscle strength (PR=1.26, 95%CI: 1.17-1.35) in men, insufficient moderate and vigorous physical activity levels (PR=1.23, 95%CI: 1.14-1.32), and relative muscle strength (PR=1.73, 95%CI: 1.61-1.87) in women. After adjusting for covariates, no significant associations were observed between insufficient moderate and vigorous physical activity levels in men (PR=1.02, 95%CI: 0.95-1.07). Conclusion Increased neck circumference seems to be an important predictor of low moderate and vigorous physical activity and relative strength loss in adults, and more pronounced in women.

Polyurethane/Vermiculite Foam Composite as Sustainable Material for Vertical Flame Retardant.

Rigid polyurethane foams were prepared by the one-step expandable foam method using casting molding followed by forming clay-based composites. Polyurethane/vermiculite foam composites (PU/VMT) were controlled based on adding the percentage of clay in the formulation. The effects of composite modifications were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS) applied to the flame retardancy explored by the vertical burn test. The results indicated that adding clay controlled the particle size concerning polyurethane (PU) foams. However, they exhibited spherical structures with closed cells with relatively uniform distribution. XRD analysis showed the peaks defined at 2θ = 18° and 2θ = 73° relative to the crystallinity in formation and interaction of rigid segments were identified, as well as the influence of crystallinity reduction in composites. In the flame test, the flame retardant surface was successful in all composites, given the success of the dispersibility and planar orientation of the clay layers and the existence of an ideal content of vermiculite (VMT) incorporated in the foam matrix.

Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Treatment Before Radiotherapy Protects Against Radiation-Induced Liver Disease in Mice.

Radiation-induced liver disease (RILD) remains a major problem resulting from radiotherapy. In this scenario, immunotherapy with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) arises as an attractive approach that might improve the injured liver. Here, we investigated G-CSF administration's impact before and after liver irradiation exposure using an association of alcohol consumption and local irradiation to induce liver disease model in C57BL/6 mice. Male and female mice were submitted to a previous alcohol-induced liver injury protocol with water containing 5% alcohol for 90 days. Then, the animals were treated with G-CSF (100 µg/kg/d) for 3 days before or after liver irradiation (18 Gy). At days 7, 30, and 60 post-radiation, non-invasive liver images were acquired by ultrasonography, magnetic resonance, and computed tomography. Biochemical and histological evaluations were performed to verify whether G-CSF could prevent liver tissue damage or reverse the acute liver injury. Our data showed that the treatment with G-CSF before irradiation effectively improved morphofunctional parameters caused by RILD, restoring histological arrangement, promoting liver regeneration, preserving normal organelles distribution, and glycogen granules. The amount of OV-6 and F4/80-positive cells increased, and α-SMA positive cells' presence was normalized. Additionally, prior G-CSF administration preserved serum biochemical parameters and increased the survival rates (100%). On the other hand, after irradiation, the treatment showed a slight improvement in survival rates (79%) and did not ameliorate RILD. Overall, our data suggest that G-CSF administration before radiation might be an immunotherapeutic alternative to radiotherapy planning to avoid RILD.

Resveratrol promotes liver regeneration in drug-induced liver disease in mice.

Studies suggest that the bioactive polyphenolic compound resveratrol (RESV, trans-isomer), found naturally in certain foods such as red grapes and peanuts, may be able to ameliorate liver damage. However, the effects and efficacy of long-term treatment with RESV remain unclear. Here, we used an acetaminophen (APAP; 400 mg/kg/d for 15 days) overdose model to induce liver damage in C56BL/6 mice. Three days after the intoxication was stopped, we observed biochemical, histological and ultrastructural alterations in the livers of these mice. The APAP-treated animals were then given RESV (10 mg/kg/d) for 60 days. Blood and tissue were analyzed at days 7, 30 and 60. Our data show that long-term RESV treatment (60 days) ameliorates the liver injury caused by APAP intoxication, restoring histological features, ultrastructural organization and serum biochemical parameters (albumin, alanine aminotransferase). Ck18- and F4/80-positive cells (indicators of hepatocyte recovery) were reestablished and the number of α-SMA positive cells was normalized after long-term RESV treatment. Additionally, downregulation of the drug transporter BCRP was observed. Electron microscopy revealed that treatment with RESV was effective in restoring the shape and size of hepatic microvilli and normalizing both the number and viability of mitochondria. Taken together, these results indicate that long-term treatment with RESV is effective in alleviating liver injury caused by APAP administration.

Aliskiren Reduces the Adrenal Zona Glomerulosa Apoptosis and Autophagy in Wistar Rats with 2K1C Hypertension.

Hypertension is a disease classified as primary or secondary, manifested not only by elevation of blood pressure but also involved in structural and functional changes of target organs. Renal artery stenosis is a leading factor of secondary hypertension, and its progress is associated with overactivation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Aliskiren is a renin inhibiting drug that suppresses RAAS and culminates in decreased renin release, plasma angiotensin II concentration, and inhibition of aldosterone secretion. In this sense, the aim of the present study was to analyze the structural and ultrastructural morphophysiology of the adrenal glomerular zone, after treatment with aliskiren in Wistar rats with 2K1C hypertension. Parameters as structure and ultrastructure of the adrenal glomerular zone, cellular apoptosis, nuclear cell proliferation, and AT1 receptor expression were analyzed by immunostaining and electron microscopy. Our results showed that the hypertensive animals treated with aliskiren presented a reestablishment of AT1 receptor expression and decrease in apoptosis and autophagy. In addition, treatment with aliskiren improves the cell aspects in the adrenal glomerular zone, evidenced by ultrastructural analysis through preserved nuclei and well-developed mitochondria. Therefore, our evidence suggests that aliskiren has a beneficial effect on the adrenal glomerular zone remodeling in animals with renovascular hypertension.

Acute Myocardial Infarction Reduces Respiration in Rat Cardiac Fibers, despite Adipose Tissue Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Transplant.

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cell (AD-MSC) administration improves cardiac function after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Although the mechanisms underlying this effect remain to be elucidated, the reversal of the mitochondrial dysfunction may be associated with AMI recovery. Here, we analyzed the alterations in the respiratory capacity of cardiomyocytes in the infarcted zone (IZ) and the border zone (BZ) and evaluated if mitochondrial function improved in cardiomyocytes after AD-MSC transplantation. Female rats were subjected to AMI by permanent left anterior descending coronary (LAD) ligation and were then treated with AD-MSCs or PBS in the border zone (BZ). Cardiac fibers were analyzed 24 hours (necrotic phase) and 8 days (fibrotic phase) after AMI for mitochondrial respiration, citrate synthase (CS) activity, F0F1-ATPase activity, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). High-resolution respirometry of permeabilized cardiac fibers showed that AMI reduced numerous mitochondrial respiration parameters in cardiac tissue, including phosphorylating and nonphosphorylating conditions, respiration coupled to ATP synthesis, and maximal respiratory capacity. CS decreased in IZ and BZ at the necrotic phase, whereas it recovered in BZ and continued to drop in IZ over time when compared to Sham. Exogenous cytochrome c doubled respiration at the necrotic phase in IZ. F0F1-ATPase activity decreased in the BZ and, to more extent, in IZ in both phases. Transmission electron microscopy showed disorganized mitochondrial cristae structure, which was more accentuated in IZ but also important in BZ. All these alterations in mitochondrial respiration were still present in the group treated with AD-MSC. In conclusion, AMI led to mitochondrial dysfunction with oxidative phosphorylation disorders, and AD-MSC improved CS temporarily but was not able to avoid alterations in mitochondria function over time.

In vitro effects of sodium selenite supplementation on cell viability of different forms of Trypanosoma cruzi

Selenium is an essential trace element which, at adequate levels, presents different beneficial biological effects, such as cancer regression, tissue development and protection against oxidative damage. The positive effects of this element are related to the expression of selenoproteins and their ability to modulate the immune system and the oxidative stress response. In Chagas disease and sleeping sickness, selenium supplementation has shown blood parasitism reduction and the alleviation of specific aspects of the diseases, such as diminishing anemia in sleeping sickness or minimization of myocardial and right ventricular chamber damage in Chagas disease. Although the influence of selenium in trypanosomiasis has been investigated, the direct effects of sodium selenite supplementation on trypanosome cells are poorly understood. Treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi cultures with low selenium doses demonstrated different results, according to the parasite evolutive form analyzed. Epimastigote cultures supplemented with 100 nM of sodium selenite presented cell growth increment, which varies from 10 to 40% according to the parasite strain assayed. Selenium concentration around 600nM leads to a 30% increase in the amastigote form number, whereas, at the same dose, the mammal host cell presented no cellular growth alteration. For the bloodstream form, the results agree with the literature, and all sodium selenite concentrations tested, demonstrated a reduction in parasite viability. The data suggest that selenium supplementation, under specific conditions, could increase T. cruzi viability, demonstrating that a strategy for using selenium as an adjuvant in Chagas disease treatment requires additional experimentation.

Papanicolau: comparison of risk and protective factors related to sociodemographic and health variables by telephone-based surveillance / Exame Papanicolau: comparação de fatores de risco e proteção em relação a variáveis sociodemográficas e de saúde por meio de inquérito telefônico / Exame Papanicolaou: comparación de factores de riesgo y protección en relación a variables sociodemográficas y de salud por encuesta telefónica

Background and objectives: Human Papilloma Virus is related to the incidence of cervical cancer. The preventive exam aims to detect early the lesions caused by subtypes of the virus, reducing the cancer incidence. Considering the limitations of the health service and the sociodemographic variables of the population of the South of Brazil, it is important to verify the risk factors and the protection of the female population. The objective is to verify risk and protection factors for Pap smears in the capitals of southern Brazil. Methods: Data from telephone-based surveillance answered by women from the capitals Florianópolis, Curitiba and Porto Alegre were used. The study analyzed data relating to the accomplishment of Pap smear, crossed with schooling, systemic arterial hypertension, marital status, pregnancy, health condition, mammography, diabetes mellitus and health plan. Descriptive statistical analyzes were performed. According to article 1 of the brazilian Resolution of the National Health Council 510/2016, this research exempts the ethics committee. Results: It was observed that having a health plan, having a mammogram, being 35-64 years and being legally married are protective factors for the preventive exam. While physical inactivity is a risk factor. The Pap smear is most prevalent among women with high levels of education. Conclusion: The Pap smear protective factors are: being legally married, in stable marriage for more than 6 months, separated, divorced, practicing physical activity, being between 35-64 years old and having dyslipidemia. The risk factors are: being 25-34 years old, not having a health insurance, being physically inactive and to have never had a mammogram.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: O papilomavírus humano está relacionado com a incidência do câncer de colo do útero. O Papanicolau tem como objetivo detectar precocemente as lesões causadas pelos tipos do vírus, reduzindo a incidência do câncer. Considerando as limitações do serviço de saúde e as variáveis sociodemográficas da população do Sul do Brasil, é importante analisar os fatores de risco e de proteção da população feminina. Objetiva-se verificar fatores de risco e proteção do Papanicolau nas capitais do Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Utilizaram-se dados de inquérito telefônico respondidos por mulheres das capitais Florianópolis, Curitiba e Porto Alegre. O estudo analisou dados referentes à realização do exame Papanicolau, cruzados com escolaridade, hipertensão arterial sistêmica, estado conjugal, gravidez, estado de saúde, realização de mamografia, diabetes mellitus e plano de saúde. Análises estatísticas descritivas foram realizadas. Segundo o artigo 1 da Resolução do Conselho Nacional de Saúde 510/2016, esta pesquisa dispensa o comitê de ética. Resultados: Observou-se que possuir plano de saúde, ter realizado mamografia, possuir entre 35 e 64 anos e ser legalmente casada são fatores de proteção para a realização do exame. Enquanto inatividade física é um fator de risco. O exame é mais prevalente entre mulheres com curso superior. Conclusão: São fatores de proteção para a realização do Papanicolau: estar casado legalmente, em união estável por mais de 6 meses; separado; divorciado; praticar atividade física; possuir entre 35 e 64 anos; e ter dislipidemia. Já os fatores de risco são: ter entre 25 e 34 anos; não ter plano de saúde; ser inativo fisicamente; e não ter realizado mamografia.(AU)

Justificación and objetivos: Papilomavírus humano está relacionado con la incidencia de cáncer cervical. El Examen Preventivo objetiva detectar precozmente las lesiones causadas por tipos del virus, reduciendo la incidencia del cáncer. Considerando las limitaciones del servicio de salud y las variables sociodemográficas de la población del Sur de Brasil, es importante analizar los factores de riesgo y protección de la población femenina. El objetivo es verificar los factores de riesgo y protección para el Papanicolaou en las capitales del sur de Brasil. Métodos: Se utilizaron datos de encuesta telefónica respondidas por mujeres de las capitales Florianópolis, Curitiba y Porto Alegre. El estudio analizó datos referentes a la realización del examen Papanicolaou, cruzados con escolaridad, hipertensión arterial sistémica, estado conjugal, embarazo, estado de salud, realización de mamografía, diabetes mellitus y plan de salud. Se realizaron análisis estadísticos descriptivos. Según el artículo 1 de la Resolución del Consejo Nacional de Salud de Brasil 510/2016, esta investigación exime al comité de ética. Resultados: Se observó que poseer plan de salud, haber realizado mamografia, poseer de 35-64 años y ser legalmente casada son factores de protección para la realización del examen. Mientras que la inactividad física es un factor de riesgo. Papanicolaou es más prevalente entre mujeres con alto nivel de escolaridad. Conclusiones: Son factores de protección para el Papanicolaou: estar legalmente casados, en un matrimonio estable durante más de 6 meses, separados, divorciados, practicar actividad física, tener entre 35 y 64 años y tener dislipidemia. Los factores de riesgo son: tener entre 25 y 34 años de edad, no tener seguro médico, estar físicamente inactivo y no haber realizado una mamografía.(AU)

Effects of N-acetylcysteine supplementation on cellular damage and oxidative stress indicators in volleyball athletes.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation on cellular damage and oxidative stress indicators in volleyball athletes. Twenty male volleyball athletes at national level performed a physical training session and were divided into 2 groups, which for 7 days took the placebo substance or NAC. After 7 days the athletes repeated the same training session. In both sessions, blood samples were collected 30 min before and immediately after the training session to measure cellular damage and oxidative stress markers. The main results show that, although higher concentrations of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were observed in post-session 1 than those in postsession 2, the other markers showed an increase in antioxidant action after supplementation of NAC, once the effect of experimental conditions (P=0.030) were observed in: time effect (P<0.001) and interaction (P=0.019) for total glutathione; time effect (P<0.001) and interaction (P<0.001) for reduced glutathione; and time effect (P<0.001) for ferric-reducing antioxidant potential. The oxidant action indicated by the protein carbonyl was higher in the placebo group than in the NAC group (P=0.028), but a time effect (P<0.001) for the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances showed lower values in presession 1 than in presession 2. For the cellular damage markers, antagonistic results between markers were found. Based in the results, the supplementation of NAC during a short period was effective in reducing oxidant action and increasing antioxidant action. However, conclusive alterations in the responses of the cellular damage markers were not obtained.

Dance as treatment therapy in breast cancer patients ­ a systematic review / Dança como tratamento terapêutico em pacientes com câncer de mama ­ uma revisão sistemática

This systematic review aimed to identify and analyse original articles which investigated the influence of dance as adjuvant therapy in breast cancer. The selected databases were PsycInfo, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect and the Virtual Health Library (VHL). The following descriptors were considered for the selection of articles: [dance therapy] OR [movement therapy] OR [complementary therapies] AND [breast cancer] OR [cancer neoplasms] OR [breast tumor] OR [breast carcinoma] present in the titles or abstracts of the articles. The quality of the data was evaluated by means of the methodological criteria proposed by Downs and Black. We identified 69 articles initially, of which only 11 were selected and analyzed. The approach followed in methodologies were dance therapy movement, Greek dance, Sacred dance, ballroom dance, classical ballet and jazz. Favorable results were found for self-image, femininity, mood, self-esteem, physical well-being, perceived stress, pain, consciousness, depression, couples trust, anxiety and fear. It was observed better range of motion and strength in upper limp, and also improvement in functional capacity. The authors pointed dance as an effective alternative adjuvant treatment in breast cancer. Dance promotes psychological benefits in women in breast cancer, as well as improvements strength and range of motion in upper limbs. Future studies are recommended with best scientific evidence, in order to investigate interventions with dance during other treatment and disease stage and with other forms of dance.

Esta revisão sistemática teve como objetivo identificar e analisar os artigos originais que investigaram a influência da dança como terapia adjuvante no câncer de mama. Foram determinadas como bases de dados para as buscas: PsycInfo, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect e a Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde (BVS). Os seguintes descritores foram utilizados [dance therapy] OR [movement therapy] OR [complementary therapies] AND [breast cancer] OR [cancer neoplasms] OR [breast tumor] OR [breast carcinoma] presentes nos títulos ou resumos dos trabalhos. A qualidade dos trabalhos foi investigada pela Escala metodológica Downs e Black. Foram identificados 69 artigos inicialmente, destes apenas 11 foram selecionados e analisados. As abordagens pautaram-se em metodologias da dança terapia, da dança grega, dança sagrada, dança de salão, do ballet e do jazz. Foram observados benefícios psicológicos na imagem corporal, feminilidade, humor, autoestima, bem estar físico, stress percebido, dor, consciência, depressão, confiança entre casais, ansiedade e medo. Observou-se também melhoras nos aspectos da amplitude de movimento e força dos membros superiores, bem como na capacidade funcional. Os autores apontam a dança como um tratamento adjuvante alternativo viável para mulheres com câncer de mama. A dança pode promover benefícios psicológicos em mulheres após o câncer de mama, assim como, melhora na força e amplitude de movimento dos membros superiores. Recomenda-se futuros estudos como melhor evidência científica, a fim de investigar a dança em outros momentos do tratamento e da doença e com outras modalidades de dança.

Radiotherapy-Induced Skin Reactions Induce Fibrosis Mediated by TGF-ß1 Cytokine.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate radiation-induced lesions on the skin in an experimental animal model. Methods and Materials: Cutaneous wounds were induced in Wistar rats by 4 MeV energy electron beam irradiation, using a dose rate of 240 cGy/min, for 3 different doses (10 Gy, 40 Gy, and 60 Gy). The skin was observed 5, 10, and 25 days (D) after ionizing radiation exposition. RESULTS: Infiltrate inflammatory process was observed in D5 and D10, for the 40 Gy and 60 Gy groups, and a progressive increase of transforming growth factor ß1 is associated with this process. It could also be noted a mischaracterization of collagen fibers at the high-dose groups. CONCLUSION: It was observed that the lesions caused by ionizing radiation in rats were very similar to radiodermatitis in patients under radiotherapy treatment. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This study is important to develop strategies to prevent radiation-induced skin reactions.

A combination of stereological methods, biochemistry and electron microscopy for the investigation of drug treatment effects in experimental animals.

Some chemotherapeutic agents used for breast cancer (BC) treatment can induce severe side effects in the ovarian tissue. The combination of cyclophosphamide and docetaxel (TC) is widely used for BC treatment; however, its late effects in the ovary are not completely understood. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the structural and ultrastructural alterations in the ovarian stroma induced by TC treatment. Wistar rats were divided into two groups: a control group and a TC group. They were euthanized 5 months after the end of treatment, and their plasma and ovaries were collected. Important alterations were noted. The serum estradiol level was significantly reduced in the TC group compared with the control group. Additionally, the number of apoptotic nuclei was higher in the TC group. The role of the inflammatory response in the development of ovarian damage was investigated, and we found an increased number of mast cells and increased expression of TNF-α in the TC group. The involvement of fibrosis was also investigated. The results showed that the TC group had increased expression levels of TGF-ß1, collagen type I (col-I) and collagen type III (col-III) compared with the control group. Ultrastructural analysis revealed the presence of collagen fibrils in the treated group and illustrated that the ovarian tissue architecture was more disorganized in this group than in the control group. The results from this study are important in the study of chemotherapy-induced ovarian failure and provide further insight into the mechanisms involved in the development of this disease.

Remodeling of the thoracic aorta after bone marrow cell transplantation.

Stem cells are characterized by their ability to differentiate into multiple cell lineages and display the paracrine effect. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of therapy with bone marrow cells (BMCs) on blood glucose, lipid metabolism and aortic wall remodeling in mice through the administration of a high fat diet and subsequent BMCs transplantation. C57BL/6 mice were fed a control diet (CO group) or an atherogenic diet (AT group). After 16 weeks, the AT group was divided into four groups: an AT 14 days group and AT 21 days group, that were given an injection of vehicle and sacrificed at 14 and 21 days after, respectively; AT-BMC 14 days group and AT-BMC 21 days group that was given an injection of BMCs and sacrificed at 14 and 21 days after. The CO group was sacrificed along with other groups. The BMCs transplant had reduced blood glucose, triglycerides and total cholesterol. The Qa (1/mm(2)) was quantitatively reduced in AT 14 days group, AT 21 days group and was high in AT-BMC 21 days group. The AT 21 days group exhibited increased tunica media and elastic system fibers. The immunolabeling for α-SMA and VEGF showed less immunolabeling in transplanted groups with BMCs. The immunostaining for PCNA seems to be more expressive in the group AT-BMC 21 days group. To conclude, our results support the concept that in mice, the injection of BMCs improve glucose levels, lipid metabolism and remodeling of the aortic wall in animals using atherogenic diet.

Viabilidade do treinamento físico aeróbio por pacientes com câncer hematológico antes do transplante autólogo de células-tronco hematopoiéticas: nota preliminar / Feasibility of aerobic exercise training prior to patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation: preliminary note

A terapêutica de quimioterapia de altas doses seguida do transplante autólogo de células-tronco hematopoiéticas vem sendo largamente aplicada em pacientes com câncer hematológico, como linha de base e na recidiva da doença. Constituída de dois momentos distintos: coleta e posterior resgate de células-tronco hematopoiéticas com prévio tratamento de altas doses de quimioterapia, separados por um interstício temporal de no mínimo seis semanas. Período este, em que os pacientes permanecem em seus domicílios e, em determinados protocolos, com quimioterapia ambulatorial. Estes indivíduos apresentam níveis reduzidos de atividades físicas, normalmente muito inferiores aos níveis recomendados, impactando em um conjunto diversificado de efeitos deletérios, incluindo aumento da fadiga e do risco de doença cardiovascular, e redução da qualidade de vida. Este estudo teve por objetivo principal verificar a viabilidade da prática sistemática do exercício físico aeróbio entre a coleta e o resgate de células-tronco hematopoiéticas. Pesquisa quase experimental com delineamento de medidas pré e pós-intervenção sem grupo-controle. Sendo amostra composta de dez pacientes. Como resultados parciais se tem que cinco pacientes estão com mais de 70% do protocolo cumprido, indicando que para estes o treinamento físico está sendo viável, relatam conseguir executar a proposta e que nenhum efeito adverso tem ocorrido. Os dados são animadores e mostram que parece ser viável a intervenção, em breve, com todos os dados tabulados e analisados, é esperada uma conjectura mais precisa sobre o assunto.

A viabilidade da pratica de treinamento físico em pacientes com leucemia aguda: uma revisão sistemática / The feasibility of the practice of physical exercise in patients with acute leukemia: a systematic review

O tratamento da leucemia acarreta efeitos adversos aos pacientes e sequelas que se manifestam de forma aguda (durante o tratamento) e também em longo prazo (pós-tratamento). Pesquisas com pacientes oncohematológicos vêm mostrando que o treinamento físico possa ser capaz de minimizar os efeitos adversos do tratamento quimioterápico do câncer. Este estudo objetiva verificar a viabilidade de um programa estruturado de treinamento físico especificamente em pacientes com leucemia mielóide aguda e leucemia linfoide aguda durante o tratamento inicial da doença. Foi efetuada uma revisão de literatura nas bases de dados computadorizadas LILACS, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Cochrane e PEDro. Como principais critérios de inclusão estudos com mais de 50% dos pacientes com diagnóstico de leucemia aguda, artigos originais em que o treinamento físico fosse a principal intervenção utilizada e com avaliações objetivas dos desfechos. Foram selecionados seis artigos, os quais analisavam a viabilidade e eficácia do treinamento físico. Treinamento físico demonstrou melhorar ou manter os níveis de fadiga, além de relatada melhorias na angustia, ansiedade, qualidade de vida e depressão, assim como no desempenho físico nessa população. Em conclusão, os estudos apontam para a viabilidade e segurança do treinamento físico executado por pacientes oncohematológicos, todavia, mais pesquisas são necessárias.

The treatment of leukemia causes adverse side effects to patients and sequels manifested as an acute (during treatment) and in the long time (post-treatment). Researches with hematologic patients have shown that physical exercise may be able to minimize the possible side effects of cancer treatment. This study aimed to investigate the viability of an exercise program specifically for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) during the initial treatment of the disease. We conducted a literature review in computerized databases LILACS, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Cochrane and PEDro. The main criterion for inclusion was the studies have more than 50% of patients diagnosed with acute leukemia, original articles on which the exercise was the main intervention employed and objective evaluations of outcomes. Six articles were selected, which analyzed the effectiveness of physical exercise on quality of life, fatigue, nausea, depression, anxiety, respiratory capacity, endurance and physical performance, these factors present in most individuals with acute leukemia, and promising improvements were noted in several of them. In conclusion, the results of these preliminary studies are encouraging and present promising results regarding the potential benefits that exercise may provide patients with hematological cancers.

Treinamento físico no câncer de cabeça e pescoço: uma revisão sistemática / Exercise program in head and neck cancer: a systematic review

Introdução: Avanços no diagnóstico médico e intervenções estão contribuindo para o aumento das taxas globais de sobrevida de pacientes com câncer em mais de cinco anos. Tal fato tem proporcionado uma mudança de enfoque no tratamento destes pacientes, dando-se atenção extra a efeitos secundários. Nesse sentido um programa de treinamento físico pode vir a contribuir. Objetivo: Verificar a viabilidade do treinamento físico, especificamente em pacientes com diagnóstico prévio de câncer de cabeça e pescoço (CCP). Material e métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura nas bases de dados computadorizadas LILACS, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Cochrane e PEDro e incluídos ensaios clínicos cuja intervenção envolvia treinamento físico em pacientes com diagnóstico descrito de CCP. Sendo excluídos estudos com foco no tratamento de trismo e disfagia. Resultados: Foram selecionados 10 artigos, os quais avaliavam a viabilidade e eficácia do treinamento físico na qualidade de vida (QV), fadiga, capacidade funcional, amplitude de movimento, fatores psicológicos, força muscular e composição corporal. Conclusão: Melhora na QV, força muscular, massa corporal magra, bem como diminuição de dor e fadiga podem ser notados nos estudos envolvendo CCP. Entretanto, devido ao número de artigos nenhuma afirmação pode ser efetuada sobre o assunto. Porém, os dados obtidos são promissores e incentivam grupos de pesquisas sobre o câncer a estudarem mais sobre os efeitos do treinamento físico nessa população...