Exploring Disulfiram's Anticancer Potential: PLGA Nano-Carriers for Prolonged Drug Delivery and Potential Improved Therapeutic Efficacy.

Disulfiram (DS) has been shown to have potent anti-cancer activity; however, it is also characterised by its low water solubility and rapid metabolism in vivo. Biodegradable polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) polymers have been frequently employed in the manufacturing of PLGA nano-carrier drug delivery systems. Thus, to develop DS-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) capable of overcoming DS's limitations, two methodologies were used to formulate the NPs: direct nanoprecipitation (DNP) and single emulsion/solvent evaporation (SE), followed by particle size reduction. The DNP method was demonstrated to produce NPs of superior characteristics in terms of size (151.3 nm), PDI (0.083), charge (-37.9 mV), and loading efficiency (65.3%). Consequently, NPs consisting of PLGA and encapsulated DS coated with mPEG2k-PLGA at adjustable ratios were prepared using the DNP method. Formulations were then characterised, and their stability in horse serum was assessed. Results revealed the PEGylated DS-loaded PLGA nano-carriers to be more efficient; hence, in-vitro studies testing these formulations were subsequently performed using two distinct breast cancer cell lines, showing great potential to significantly enhance cancer therapy.

Anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory activities of Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) extracts: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies.

Background: Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC. (Rubiaceae) is traditionally used by Amazonian indigenous groups to treat inflammatory diseases. To date, there are no systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the use of U. tomentosa for inflammation control in animals supporting the traditional knowledge about this species. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of U. tomentosa extracts in modulating inflammatory mediators and to determine which types of inflammatory diseases can be treated by this species. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies published before 26 July 2023, identified in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Four independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the risks of bias. The effects of U. tomentosa on inflammatory diseases and the inflammatory mediators involved were extracted from the studies. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of the outcomes were estimated. The meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration). This protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023450869). Results: Twenty-four of 523 studies were included. U. tomentosa extracts decreased the cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 (SMD: -0.72, 95%CI: -1.15, -0.29, p = 0.001) and transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) (SMD: -1.19, 95%CI: -1.89, -0.48, p = 0.001). However, the extracts did not significantly alter IL-1 (SMD: -0.16, 95%CI: -0.87, +0.56, p = 0.67), IL-10 (SMD: -0.05, 95%CI:-0.35, 0.45, p = 0.80), or tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels (SMD: 0.18, 95%CI: -0.25, 0.62, p = 0.41). Conclusion: Many extracts of stem bark, roots, and leaves of U. tomentosa, mostly aqueous and hydroethanolic, exhibited anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory activities and low toxicity. The extracts decreased NF-κB and IL-6. These findings suggest that this species has the potential to treat inflammatory diseases in which these markers are increased, according to the ethnopharmacological use. These activities are not related to a specific class of compounds.Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=450869, Identifier CRD42023450869.

Blended Psychological Interventions for Emotional Disorders in Youth: Acceptability and Intention to Use in a Sample of Portuguese Psychologists.

INTRODUCTION: The rise of mental health problems in youth highlights the need for accessible and cost-effective psychological interventions. Blended interventions, which combine face-to-face and online sessions, can be an adequate response to the increase in demands for youth mental health services. Although this can be a promising approach, effective dissemination depends on the professionals´ acceptance. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the acceptability of and intention to use blended interventions by psychologists working with children with emotional disorders and to examine their predictors, including previous knowledge, expectancies (i.e., performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions), and attitudes toward evidence-based practices. METHODS: The sample consisted of 76 Portuguese psychologists (Mage = 37.26 years, SD = 10.47; 92.1% female) working in youth mental health services. The participants completed an online protocol to evaluate the different dimensions included in the study. RESULTS: The results showed that most participants demonstrated moderate to high acceptability of blended psychological interventions for emotional disorders in youth and intend to use them in the future. Regression analysis showed that performance expectancy and positive attitudes toward evidence-based practices were significant predictors of acceptance of blended interventions and that social influence was a significant predictor of both acceptance of and intention to use blended interventions. CONCLUSION: These results emphasize the importance of sharing the findings of blended interventions, changing professionals' attitudes toward evidencebased practices, and collaborating more closely with organizations and institutions to advance standards that encourage the adoption of this intervention format.

Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of Emotion Detectives In-Out: a blended version of the unified protocol for transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders in Portuguese children.

BACKGROUND: Childhood emotional disorders (EDs; i.e., anxiety and depressive disorders) are currently a public health concern. Their high prevalence, long-term effects, and profound influence on the lives of children and families highlight the need to identify and treat these disorders as early and effectively as possible. This clinical trial will examine the efficacy of a blended version (i.e., combining face-to-face and online sessions into one treatment protocol) of the Unified Protocol for Children (the "Emotion Detectives In-Out" program). This program is a manualized cognitive-behavioral therapy for the transdiagnostic treatment of EDs in children aged 7 to 12 years that aims to reduce the intensity and frequency of strong and aversive emotional experiences by helping children learn how to confront those emotions and respond to them in more adaptive ways. METHODS: This study is designed as a multicenter equivalence randomized controlled parallel-group two-arm trial comparing the Emotion Detectives In-Out program with an evidenced-based group intervention for children with anxiety disorders (the Coping Cat program). Participants will be children aged between 7 and 12 years with an anxiety disorder or with clinically significant anxiety symptoms as well as one of their parents or a legal representative. A minimum sample size of 138 children (69 per group) is needed to test whether the efficacy of the proposed intervention is equivalent to that of the well-established Coping Cat intervention. DISCUSSION: We expect Emotion Detectives In-Out to be a feasible and efficacious alternative intervention for treating children's EDs by allowing for a greater increase in children's access to care. A blended format is expected to overcome common barriers to treatment (e.g., parents´ lack of time to attend regular sessions) and make the intervention more accessible to families. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The clinical trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05747131, date assigned February 28, 2023).

Parents' acceptability of blended psychological interventions for children with emotional disorders.

Objectives: This study aims to (1) describe parents' knowledge and use of online resources to address children's mental health issues and the family's general internet and technology usage patterns; (2) examine parents' acceptance of blended interventions for children with emotional disorders (ED); and (3) analyse the predictors of parents' intention to use a blended intervention if their children experienced an ED. Method: The sample included 164 Portuguese parents (95.7 % mothers) of children between the ages of 6 and 13 years who completed an online survey. The study was disseminated through social networks, personal contacts of the researchers, and among parents participating in a randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of a psychological intervention for children with ED. Results: Only 4.3 % of parents knew about online psychological interventions for children, and only 1.2 % had used them before. Most parents (73.2 %) reported that they would choose face-to-face individual therapy as their first option if their child had any ED, followed by blended therapy (14.8 %). Regression analyses showed that higher levels of parents' intention to use a blended intervention were predicted by their perceptions of the utility or efficacy of this type of delivery format. Discussion/conclusion: These results suggest that although most parents show unfamiliarity with blended psychological interventions for children, they consider it a treatment modality to which they would resort if their children had emotional difficulties. Their intention to use such an intervention seems to be more likely if they perceive it as useful and effective.

Chloroplast genome assembly of Serjania erecta Raldk: comparative analysis reveals gene number variation and selection in protein-coding plastid genes of Sapindaceae.

Serjania erecta Raldk is an essential genetic resource due to its anti-inflammatory, gastric protection, and anti-Alzheimer properties. However, the genetic and evolutionary aspects of the species remain poorly known. Here, we sequenced and assembled the complete chloroplast genome of S. erecta and used it in a comparative analysis within the Sapindaceae family. S. erecta has a chloroplast genome (cpDNA) of 159,297 bp, divided into a Large Single Copy region (LSC) of 84,556 bp and a Small Single Copy region (SSC) of 18,057 bp that are surrounded by two Inverted Repeat regions (IRa and IRb) of 28,342 bp. Among the 12 species used in the comparative analysis, S. erecta has the fewest long and microsatellite repeats. The genome structure of Sapindaceae species is relatively conserved; the number of genes varies from 128 to 132 genes, and this variation is associated with three main factors: (1) Expansion and retraction events in the size of the IRs, resulting in variations in the number of rpl22, rps19, and rps3 genes; (2) Pseudogenization of the rps2 gene; and (3) Loss or duplication of genes encoding tRNAs, associated with the duplication of trnH-GUG in X. sorbifolium and the absence of trnT-CGU in the Dodonaeoideae subfamily. We identified 10 and 11 mutational hotspots for Sapindaceae and Sapindoideae, respectively, and identified six highly diverse regions (tRNA-Lys - rps16, ndhC - tRNA-Val, petA - psbJ, ndhF, rpl32 - ccsA, and ycf1) are found in both groups, which show potential for the development of DNA barcode markers for molecular taxonomic identification of Serjania. We identified that the psaI gene evolves under neutrality in Sapindaceae, while all other chloroplast genes are under strong negative selection. However, local positive selection exists in the ndhF, rpoC2, ycf1, and ycf2 genes. The genes ndhF and ycf1 also present high nucleotide diversity and local positive selection, demonstrating significant potential as markers. Our findings include providing the first chloroplast genome of a member of the Paullinieae tribe. Furthermore, we identified patterns in variations in the number of genes and selection in genes possibly associated with the family's evolutionary history.

Tolerability of endometriosis medical treatment: a comparison between combined hormonal contraceptives and progestins.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs in women of reproductive age. Much of the treatment involves hormone therapy that suppresses the proliferation of endometriosis lesions.Objective To compare discontinuation rates of pharmacological treatment with estrogen-progestins and progestins medications. The secondary objective is to evaluate the main side effects of these drugs in patients with endometriosis.Methods This retrospective study analyzed data from 330 patients who attended the Hospital of the State Public Servant of São Paulo from August 1999 to September 2020 and received pharmacological treatment for endometriosis. The data were obtained by review of the files of medical appointments with specialized staff.Results The median treatment time was 18 months, ranging from 1 to 168 months, and 177 patients interrupted the proposed treatment. The combined contraceptives with estrogens and progestins were significantly linked to treatment interruption, with a relative risk of 1,99 (p = 0,005). The most important side effects that resulted in treatment interruption were pain persistence (p = 0,043), weight gain (p = 0,017) and spotting (p < 0,001).

Amniotic Sludge and Prematurity: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes of women with singleton pregnancies, after spontaneous conception, and with the diagnosis of amniotic sludge before 37 weeks of gestational age. DATA SOURCES: We conducted a search on the PubMed, Cochrane, Bireme, and Theses databases until June 2022. SELECTION OF STUDIES: Using the keywords intra-amniotic sludge or fluid sludge or echogenic particles, we found 263 articles, 132 of which were duplicates, and 70 were discarded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. DATA COLLECTION: The articles retrieved were analyzed by 2 reviewers; 61 were selected for full-text analysis, 18 were included for a qualitative analysis, and 14, for a quantitative analysis. DATA SYNTHESIS: Among the maternal outcomes analyzed, there was an increased risk of preterm labor (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.45-2.03), premature rupture of ovular membranes (95%CI: 1.99-3.79), and clinical (95%CI: 1.41-6.19) and histological chorioamnionitis (95%CI: 1.75-3.12). Regarding the fetal outcomes, there was a significant increase in the risk of morbidity (95%CI: 1.80-3.17), mortality (95%CI: 1.14-18.57), admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU; 95%CI: 1.17-1.95), and neonatal sepsis (95%CI: 2.29-7.55). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study indicate that the presence of amniotic sludge is a risk marker for preterm delivery. Despite the heterogeneity of the studies analyzed, even in patients with other risk factors for prematurity, such as short cervix and previous preterm delivery, the presence of amniotic sludge increases the risk of premature labor. Moreover, antibiotic therapy seems to be a treatment for amniotic sludge, and it may prolong pregnancy.

OBJETIVO: Realizar revisão sistemática e metanálise de estudos que avaliaram os desfechos maternos, fetais e neonatais em gestantes de gravidez única, após concepção espontânea, e com o diagnóstico de sludge amniótico antes de 37 semanas de idade gestacional. FONTES DOS DADOS: Realizou-se uma pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed, Cochrane, Bireme e Teses até junho de 2022. SELEçãO DOS ESTUDOS: Usando as palavras-chave intra-amniotic sludge ou fluid sludge ou echogenic particles, foram encontrados 263 artigos, 132 dos quais eram duplicatas, e 70 foram descartados por não corresponderem aos critérios de inclusão. COLETA DE DADOS: Os artigos encontrados foram analisados por 2 revisores; 61 foram selecionados para análise de texto completo, 18 foram incluídos em uma análise qualitativa e 14, em uma análise quantitativa. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: Entre os desfechos maternos analisados, houve aumento do risco de trabalho de parto prematuro (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 1.45­2.03), rotura prematura de membranas ovulares (IC95%: 1.99­3.79), e corioamnionite clínica (IC95%: 1.41­6.19) e histológica (IC95%: 1.75­3.12). Em relação aos desfechos fetais, houve aumento significativo do risco de morbidade (IC95%: 1.80­3.17), mortalidade (IC95%: 1.14­18.57), admissão em Unidade de Tratamento Intensivo (UTI) neonatal (IC95%: 1.17­1.95) e sepse neonatal (IC95%: 2.29­7.55). CONCLUSãO: Os resultados do presente estudo indicam que a presença de sludge amniótico é um marcador de risco para parto prematuro. Apesar da heterogeneidade dos estudos analisados, até mesmo em pacientes com outros fatores de risco para prematuridade, como colo curto e trabalho de parto prematuro anterior, a presença de sludge amniótico aumenta o risco de trabalho de parto prematuro na gestação. Além do mais, a antibioticoterapia parece ser um tratamento para o sludge amniótico, e pode ser capaz de prolongar a gravidez.

Group-Transfer Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly (GTPISA) in Non-polar Media: An Organocatalyzed Route to Block Copolymer Nanoparticles at Room Temperature.

Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) enables the synthesis at large scale of a wide variety of functional nanoparticles. However, a large number of works are related to controlled radical polymerization (CRP) methods and are generally undertaken at elevated temperatures (>50 °C). Here is the first report on methacrylate-based nanoparticles fabricated by group transfer polymerization-induced self-assembly (GTPISA) in non-polar media (n-heptane). This GTPISA process is achieved at room temperature (RT) using 1-methoxy-1-(trimethylsiloxy)-2-methylprop-1-ene (MTS) and tetrabutylammonium bis-benzoate (TBABB) as initiator and organic catalyst, respectively. Under these conditions, well-defined metal-free and colorless diblock copolymers are produced with efficient crossover from the non-polar stabilizing poly(lauryl methacrylate) (PLMA) block to the non-soluble poly(benzyl methacrylate) (PBzMA) segment. The resulting PLMA-b-PBzMA block copolymers simultaneously self-assemble into nanostructures of various sizes and morphologies. GTPISA in non-polar solvent proceeds rapidly at RT and avoids the use of sulfur or halogenated compounds or metallic catalysts associated with the implementation of CRP methods, thus expanding the potential of PISA formulations for applications in non-polar environments.

Chloroplast genome characterization of Uncaria guianensis and Uncaria tomentosa and evolutive dynamics of the Cinchonoideae subfamily.

Uncaria species are used in traditional medicine and are considered of high therapeutic value and economic importance. This work describes the assembly and annotation of the chloroplast genomes of U. guianensis and U. tomentosa, as well as a comparative analysis. The genomes were sequenced on MiSeq Illumina, assembled with NovoPlasty, and annotated using CHLOROBOX GeSeq. Addictionaly, comparative analysis were performed with six species from NCBI databases and primers were designed in Primer3 for hypervariable regions based on the consensus sequence of 16 species of the Rubiaceae family and validated on an in-silico PCR in OpenPrimeR. The genome size of U. guianensis and U. tomentosa was 155,505 bp and 156,390 bp, respectively. Both Species have 131 genes and GC content of 37.50%. The regions rpl32-ccsA, ycf1, and ndhF-ccsA showed the three highest values of nucleotide diversity within the species of the Rubiaceae family and within the Uncaria genus, these regions were trnH-psbA, psbM-trnY, and rps16-psbK. Our results indicates that the primer of the region ndhA had an amplification success for all species tested and can be promising for usage in the Rubiaceae family. The phylogenetic analysis recovered a congruent topology to APG IV. The gene content and the chloroplast genome structure of the analyzed species are conserved and most of the genes are under negative selection. We provide the cpDNA of Neotropical Uncaria species, an important genomic resource for evolutionary studies of the group.

Comparative study of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and laparoscopic hysterectomy for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding in enlarged uteri.

OBJECTIVE: The levonorgestrel intrauterine system treatment prevents 67.7% of surgeries in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and enlarged uteri. To evaluate the effectiveness of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in the treatment of patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus and to compare satisfaction and its complications with hysterectomy. METHODS: This was a comparative cross-sectional observational study of women with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus. Sixty-two women were treated and followed up for four years. Insertion of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system was performed in Group 1, and laparoscopic hysterectomy was performed in Group 2. RESULTS: In Group 1 (n=31), 21 patients (67.7%) showed improvement in the bleeding pattern, and 11 patients (35.5%) had amenorrhea. Five patients (16.1%) remained with heavy bleeding and were considered to have experienced treatment failure. There were seven expulsions (22.6%); in five patients, bleeding remained heavy, but in two patients the bleeding returned to that of normal menstruation. No relationship was found between treatment failure and greater hysterometries (p=0.40) or greater uterine volumes (p=0.50), whereas expulsion was greater in uteri with smaller hysterometries (p=0.04). There were 13 (21%) complications, seven (53.8%) in the group that underwent insertion of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (all were device expulsions), and six (46.2%) in the surgical group, which were the most severe ones (p=0.76). Regarding satisfaction, 12 patients (38.7%) were dissatisfied with the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and one (3.23%) was dissatisfied with the surgical treatment (p=0.00). CONCLUSION: Treatment with the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus was effective, and when compared with laparoscopic hysterectomy, it had a lower rate of satisfaction and the same rate of complications, although less severe.

Consumption of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic conditions: a survey in a tertiary-care outpatient clinic / Utilização de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas: levantamento em um serviço pediátrico terciário

Objectives: Medicinal plants and herbal medicines are widely used worldwide. However, patients with chronic health conditions or their caregivers do not often disclose these practices to their healthcare providers, leading to potentially severe interactions with current treatments, especially in children. We aimed to describe the prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic health conditions and whether their physicians were informed about it. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional electronic survey on parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with chronic health conditions seen at a university, tertiary-care pediatric outpatient clinic. The common names of the plants cited by respondents were reviewed and Latin names of the species were provided whenever possible. Results: From 20,213 text messages sent in May and June 2021, 521 valid responses were obtained. The prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines was 34.6%, most without a medical prescription (self-medication), and few physicians (4.0%) were aware of it. The five most used species were: Mentha spicata L. (mint), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (fennel), "cidreira" (a common name possibly corresponding to Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Melissa officinalis L. or Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E. Br. ex Britton & Wilson, P.), Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile), and Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (boldo). Conclusions: The prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic health conditions in a tertiary-care outpatient clinic was 34.6%, and only a few physicians were aware of it (AU).

Objetivos: Plantas medicinais e seus derivados são amplamente utilizados no mundo todo. Entretanto, pacientes com condições crônicas de saúde ou seus cuidadores frequentemente não informam essas práticas para seus profissionais de saúde, levando a interações potencialmente graves com os demais tratamentos, especialmente em crianças. Nós objetivamos descrever a prevalência do uso de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde, e se seus médicos foram informados sobre isto. Métodos: Levantamento eletrônico transversal junto a pais e cuidadores de crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde atendidos em um serviço ambulatorial pediátrico universitário terciário. Os nomes comuns das plantas citadas pelos participantes foram revisados e os nomes latinos das espécies foram identificados, sempre que possível. Resultados: De 20.213 mensagens de texto enviadas em maio e junho de 2021, 521 respostas válidas foram obtidas. A prevalência de utilização de plantas medicinais e derivados foi de 34,6%, sendo a maioria sem prescrição médica (automedicação), e poucos médicos (4,0%) estavam cientes disto. As cinco plantas mais comumente utilizadas foram: Mentha spicata L. (hortelã), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (funcho), "cidreira" (possivelmente correspondendo a Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Melissa officinalis L. ou Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E. Br. ex Britton & Wilson, P.), Matricaria chamomilla L. (camomila) e Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (boldo nacional). Conclusões: A prevalência de uso de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde em um serviço ambulatorial pediátrico terciário foi de 34,6%, com grande potencial para interações, e somente poucos médicos estavam cientes disto

Prevalence of urinary dysfunction after minimally invasive surgery for deep rectosigmoid endometriosis.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and progression of lower urinary tract symptoms following laparoscopic surgery for deep-infiltrating endometriosis of the rectosigmoid and identify preoperative factors associated with worse postoperative outcomes. METHODS: Prospective, observational study. SETTINGS: single-center, referral hospital for endometriosis. Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for deep-infiltrating endometriosis of the rectosigmoid colon between October 2016 and October 2018. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: urinary function was assessed with the validated Portuguese language version of the International Prostate Symptom Score, which is also used in women. The score was collected before and after surgery. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre and postoperative scores and the chi-square test compared symptoms categorized by severity. RESULTS: Fifty-three patients were assessed and 44 were included. Concerning urinary symptoms after surgery, the irritative symptoms prevailed over the obstructive ones. Additionally, 58.8% and 54.5% of the women reported moderate or severe symptoms at pre and postoperative, respectively. In at least one questionnaire category, the postoperative questionnaire scores increased in ten (22.7%) participants. A statistically significant difference was found comparing the changes from absent/mild to moderate/severe IPSS categories (P = 0.039). No significant changes were identified in any of the International Prostate Symptom Score pre and postoperatively (P = 0.876). CONCLUSIONS: There was a high prevalence of pre and postoperative urinary symptoms. Patients with preoperative moderate/severe International Prostate Symptom Score are at risk of persisting urinary dysfunction after surgery for rectosigmoid deep endometriosis.

Dynamized Aloysia Polystachya (Griseb.) Essential Oil: A Promising Antimicrobial Product.

BACKGROUND: Compounds from vegetal matter have therapeutic potential to control highly prevalent microorganisms that are resistant to commonly used antimicrobial drugs. Dynamization of compounds can either maintain or improve their therapeutic effects, and make their use safer, especially those compounds whose therapeutic dose is close to the toxic limit. Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) stands out among aromatic plants with antimicrobial potential. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of dynamized and crude forms of A. polystachya essential oil against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. METHODS: Essential oil was extracted from A. polystachya dry leaves, solubilized, and dynamized at 1 cH potency as recommended by the Brazilian Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia. Antimicrobial activity against C. albicans, E. coli and S. aureus of the samples was assayed using the plate microdilution method. RESULTS: Dynamized A. polystachya essential oil at the concentration of 1 µg/mL inhibited the growth of all the microbial species analyzed. The minimum inhibitory concentration of dynamized essential oil was smaller than crude essential oil for S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. CONCLUSION: It is reported for the first time that A. polystachya dynamized essential oil can effectively suppress microbial growth, and it is a promising adjuvant to treat infections with pathogenic S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans.

Anti-asthmatic activity of standardized hydro-ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Stachytarpheta cayennensis (Rich.) Vahl in a murine model.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Stachytarpheta cayennensis (Verbenaceae) has been used in Brazilian traditional medicine to treat asthma and other respiratory diseases. AIMS OF THE STUDY: To investigate the effects of different doses of standardized hydro-ethanolic (SCH) and aqueous (SCA) extracts of aerial parts of S. cayennensis using a murine ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The major constituents of the plant extracts were identified and standardized by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Balb/c mice were challenged with OVA solution and treated concomitantly by intraperitoneal injection of standardized SCH or SCA extracts at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg concentrations. OVA-challenged control animals were treated with either dexamethasone (OVA-DEX) or saline solution (OVA-SAL). After challenge, we assessed in vivo bronchial hyperresponsiveness, airway inflammation (number of cells), peribronchial inflammation (histological analysis) and production of OVA-specific IgE and interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13 (ELISA). RESULTS: Acteoside, isoacteoside, and ipolamiide were the major constituents of SCH and SCA. The respective concentrations of acteoside in SCH and SCA were 78 and 98 µg/mL, while those of ipolamiide were 30 and 19 µg/mL. Treatment with 200 mg/kg of SCH or SCA decreased IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in lung homogenates. These reductions were accompanied by a lower influx of inflammatory cells (eosinophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages) to the airways and lungs. In addition to the anti-inflammatory effects, administration of SCA, but not SCH, ameliorated the parameters of bronchial hyperresponsiveness and decreased levels of circulating OVA-specific IgE. CONCLUSION: The results presented herein demonstrate for the first time the anti-asthmatic activity of S. cayennensis extracts in a murine model, thereby supporting the ethnopharmacological uses of the plant.

Stress, burnout and work engagement among physicians of the state of Paraná, Brazil.

Introduction: Precariousness of medical work, with loss of autonomy and devaluation, in addition to unstable and non-guaranteed employment bonds, has caused health problems in professionals, hampering the assistance provided. Research shows a high prevalence of stress, burnout, depression, and suicide among physicians. This study investigated aspects of mental health in physicians from the state of Paraná, Brazil. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate indicators of stress, burnout, and work engagement measured by inventories specifically designed for each one: Stress Symptoms Inventory, Burnout Syndrome Inventory, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, respectively. Methods: The professionals answered the questionnaires remotely, after accepting the invitation for the study and signing the consent form. Results: A total of 1,201 physicians answered the questionnaires, with mean age of 37 years; 53.9% of participants were women; 63.5% graduated in Paraná. Of the total number of participants, 97.5% and 93.4% presented psychological and physical symptoms of stress, respectively. According to the Inventário da Síndrome de Burnout, the prevalence of diagnosis of burnout was estimated at 59.4%. As for work engagement, 40% of participants showed very high levels in the overall score of the construct. Conclusions: Most physicians showed signs of stress; burnout rates were high; negative organizational conditions prevailed in the work environment; work engagement was frequent.

Introdução: A precarização do trabalho médico, com a perda de autonomia e a desvalorização, além de vínculos empregatícios instáveis e sem garantias, tem provocado problemas de saúde nos profissionais, prejudicando a assistência prestada. Pesquisas mostram elevada prevalência de estresse, burnout, depressão e suicídio entre médicos. Este estudo investigou aspectos da saúde mental de médicos do estado do Paraná, Brasil. Objetivos: Pretendeu-se avaliar indicadores de estresse, burnout e engajamento no trabalho, aferidos pelos inventários elaborados especificamente para cada um: Inventário de Sintomatologia de Estresse, Inventário da Síndrome de Burnout, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, respectivamente. Métodos: Os profissionais responderam remotamente aos questionários, após aceitar o convite e assinar o termo de consentimento. Resultados: Responderam 1.201 médicos, com média de idade de 37 anos; 53,9% dos participantes eram mulheres; 63,5% se graduaram no Paraná. Do total de participantes, 97,5% e 93,4% apresentaram sintomas psicológicos e físicos de estresse, respectivamente. De acordo com o Inventário da Síndrome de Burnout, a prevalência do diagnóstico de burnout foi estimada em 59,4%. Quanto ao engajamento, 40% apresentaram nível muito alto na escala geral do constructo. Conclusões: A maioria dos médicos manifestou sinais de estresse; foi elevada a taxa de burnout; predominaram condições organizacionais negativas no ambiente de trabalho; o engajamento no trabalho foi frequente.

Amniotic Sludge and Prematurity: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis / Sludge amniótico e prematuridade: revisão sistemática e metanálise

Abstract Objective To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes of women with singleton pregnancies, after spontaneous conception, and with the diagnosis of amniotic sludge before 37 weeks of gestational age. Data Sources We conducted a search on the PubMed, Cochrane, Bireme, and Theses databases until June 2022. Selection of Studies Using the keywords intra-amniotic sludge or fluid sludge or echogenic particles, we found 263 articles, 132 of which were duplicates, and 70 were discarded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Data Collection The articles retrieved were analyzed by 2 reviewers; 61 were selected for full-text analysis, 18 were included for a qualitative analysis, and 14, for a quantitative analysis. Data Synthesis Among the maternal outcomes analyzed, there was an increased risk of preterm labor (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.45-2.03), premature rupture of ovular membranes (95%CI: 1.99-3.79), and clinical (95%CI: 1.41-6.19) and histological chorioamnionitis (95%CI: 1.75-3.12). Regarding the fetal outcomes, there was a significant increase in the risk of morbidity (95%CI: 1.80-3.17), mortality (95%CI: 1.14-18.57), admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU; 95%CI: 1.17-1.95), and neonatal sepsis (95%CI: 2.29-7.55). Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that the presence of amniotic sludge is a risk marker for preterm delivery. Despite the heterogeneity of the studies analyzed, even in patients with other risk factors for prematurity, such as short cervix and previous preterm delivery, the presence of amniotic sludge increases the risk of premature labor. Moreover, antibiotic therapy seems to be a treatment for amniotic sludge, and it may prolong pregnancy.

Resumo Objetivo Realizar revisão sistemática e metanálise de estudos que avaliaram os desfechos maternos, fetais e neonatais em gestantes de gravidez única, após concepção espontânea, e com o diagnóstico de sludge amniótico antes de 37 semanas de idade gestacional. Fontes dos dados Realizou-se uma pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed, Cochrane, Bireme e Teses até junho de 2022. Seleção dos estudos Usando as palavras-chave intra-amniotic sludge ou fluid sludge ou echogenic particles, foram encontrados 263 artigos, 132 dos quais eram duplicatas, e 70 foram descartados por não corresponderem aos critérios de inclusão. Coleta de dados Os artigos encontrados foram analisados por 2 revisores; 61 foram selecionados para análise de texto completo, 18 foram incluídos em uma análise qualitativa e 14, em uma análise quantitativa. Síntese dos dados Entre os desfechos maternos analisados, houve aumento do risco de trabalho de parto prematuro (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 1.45-2.03), rotura prematura de membranas ovulares (IC95%: 1.99-3.79), e corioamnionite clínica (IC95%: 1.41-6.19) e histológica (IC95%: 1.75-3.12). Em relação aos desfechos fetais, houve aumento significativo do risco de morbidade (IC95%: 1.80-3.17), mortalidade (IC95%: 1.14-18.57), admissão em Unidade de Tratamento Intensivo (UTI) neonatal (IC95%: 1.17-1.95) e sepse neonatal (IC95%: 2.29-7.55). Conclusão Os resultados do presente estudo indicam que a presença de sludge amniótico é um marcador de risco para parto prematuro. Apesar da heterogeneidade dos estudos analisados, até mesmo em pacientes com outros fatores de risco para prematuridade, como colo curto e trabalho de parto prematuro anterior, a presença de sludge amniótico aumenta o risco de trabalho de parto prematuro na gestação. Além do mais, a antibioticoterapia parece ser um tratamento para o sludge amniótico, e pode ser capaz de prolongar a gravidez.

Preservation of phenolic compounds on dried leaf infusion of Bauhinia forficata Link

Abstract Bauhinia forficata Link aqueous extract is usually recommended as a phytomedicine to reduce blood glucose levels and its biological activity has been linked to the presence of phenolic compounds from B. forficata preparations. Several drying processes are used in the production of dry herbal extracts, which may influence the chemical composition and efficacy of final herbal medicines. Due to significant chemical changes, defining appropriate drying processes is essential for phytopharmaceutical drug development. In view of this, we analyzed dried B. forficata leaf infusion (BFLI) extracts by HPLC-UV-MSn, followed by molecular networking analysis to evaluate the chemical profiles from dried extracts yielded by freeze-and spray-drying processes. The main metabolites detected included 11 ferulic/isoferulic acid derivatives and 13 glycosylated flavonoids. The qualitative chemical profiles were alike for both drying processes, whereas the relative abundance of some flavonoids was higher using spray-drying. Taken together, our results showed that freeze-and spray-drying preserved the phenolic profile of BFLI and suggested that spray-drying may be the most suitable to obtain its dried products. Along with studying the chemical profiles of dried herbal extracts, evaluating the influence of drying processes on the quality and chemical profiles of final products is pivotal and may benefit future research.

Comparative study of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and laparoscopic hysterectomy for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding in enlarged uteri

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in the treatment of patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus and to compare satisfaction and its complications with hysterectomy. Methods This was a comparative cross-sectional observational study of women with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus. Sixty-two women were treated and followed up for four years. Insertion of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system was performed in Group 1, and laparoscopic hysterectomy was performed in Group 2. Results In Group 1 (n=31), 21 patients (67.7%) showed improvement in the bleeding pattern, and 11 patients (35.5%) had amenorrhea. Five patients (16.1%) remained with heavy bleeding and were considered to have experienced treatment failure. There were seven expulsions (22.6%); in five patients, bleeding remained heavy, but in two patients the bleeding returned to that of normal menstruation. No relationship was found between treatment failure and greater hysterometries (p=0.40) or greater uterine volumes (p=0.50), whereas expulsion was greater in uteri with smaller hysterometries (p=0.04). There were 13 (21%) complications, seven (53.8%) in the group that underwent insertion of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (all were device expulsions), and six (46.2%) in the surgical group, which were the most severe ones (p=0.76). Regarding satisfaction, 12 patients (38.7%) were dissatisfied with the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and one (3.23%) was dissatisfied with the surgical treatment (p=0.00). Conclusion Treatment with the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and an enlarged uterus was effective, and when compared with laparoscopic hysterectomy, it had a lower rate of satisfaction and the same rate of complications, although less severe.

Associação entre erosão dental e asma: uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise / Association between dental erosion and asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Asociación entre erosión dental y asma: una revisión sistemática y meta-análisis

O objetivo desse plano de trabalho foi avaliar criticamente a evidência atual sobre a associação entre erosão dental e asma em crianças. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática com estudos observacionais transversais do tipo caso-controle em crianças de 3 a 12 anos de idade. A pesquisa foi conduzida por dois revisores independentes (Kappa>0,8), em cinco bancos de dados eletrônicos primários, além de uma pesquisa de literatura cinzenta. O risco de viés dos artigos incluídos foi realizado usando o Joanna Briggs Institute Critical. Lista de verificação de avaliação para estudos transversais analíticos. RevMan 5.4 foi usado para gerar figura do risco de viés e realizar a meta- análise. A qualidade da evidência foi avaliada de acordo com o Classificação de Recomendações Avaliação, Desenvolvimento e Avaliação (GRADE). Cinco estudos foram incluídos para análise qualitativa, dos quais quatro foram incluídos para análise quantitativa, com total de 2047 crianças. Três dos trabalhos apresentaram moderado risco de viés, um com alto risco, e um com baixo risco de viés. A confiança na evidência foi classificada como "muito baixa". Concluiu-se que não há associação entre asma e erosão dental.

The aim of this study was to critically evaluate the current evidence on the association between dental erosion and asthma in children. A systematic review was carried out with case-control cross-sectional observational studies in children aged 3 to 12 years. The search was conducted by two independent reviewers (Kappa>0.8), across five primary electronic databases, in addition to a gray literature search. The risk of bias of included articles was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical. Evaluation checklist for analytical cross-sectional studies. RevMan 5.4 was used to generate the risk of bias figure and perform a meta-analysis. The quality of the evidence was assessed according to the Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Recommendations Rating. Five studies were included for qualitative analysis, of which four were included for quantitative analysis, with a total of 2047 children. Three of the studies adopted moderate risk of bias, one with high risk, and one with low risk of bias. Confidence in the evidence was rated "very low". It was concluded that there is no association between asthma and dental erosion.

El objetivo de este plan de trabajo fue evaluar críticamente la evidencia actual sobre la asociación entre erosión dental y asma en niños. Se realizó una revisión sistemática con estudios observacionales transversales de casos y controles en niños de 3 a 12 años. La búsqueda fue realizada por dos revisores independientes (Kappa>0,8), en cinco bases de datos electrónicas primarias, además de una búsqueda en la literatura gris. El riesgo de sesgo de los artículos incluidos se realizó mediante el Joanna Briggs Institute Critical. Lista de verificación de evaluación para estudios transversales analíticos. Se utilizó RevMan 5.4 para generar la cifra de riesgo de sesgo y realizar el metanálisis. La calidad de la evidencia se evaluó de acuerdo con la Clasificación de recomendaciones de evaluación, desarrollo y evaluación (GRADE). Se incluyeron cinco estudios para el análisis cualitativo, de los cuales cuatro se incluyeron para el análisis cuantitativo, con un total de 2047 niños. Tres de los artículos tenían riesgo moderado de sesgo, uno con alto riesgo y uno con bajo riesgo de sesgo. La confianza en la evidencia se calificó como "muy baja". Se concluyó que no existe asociación entre el asma y la erosión dental.