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Plasma corticosterone concentration (CORT), heterophil:lymphocyte ratio (H:L), catalase activity (CAT), total glutathione concentration (GSH), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels (TBARS) were evaluated in 48 Hy-Line Brown laying hens, at 79 weeks of age, after being fasted for 10 consecutive days. Blood was collected on days zero, two, four, six, eight, and 10 of fasting, and a completely randomized design was adopted, with eight replicates on each day of collection, with each bird being an experimental unit. The time of maximum stress was determined for each method, using the polynomial regression analysis. The Pearson correlation analysis was also performed to determine whether the methods were interchangeable. CORT and GSH concentrations indicated that the time of maximum stress occurred at 4.3 days of fasting, whereas, the H:L and CAT activity indicated that the time of maximum stress occurred at 10 days of fasting. The malondialdehyde concentration detected by the TBARS method was highest at day zero and lowest at day 5.5 of fasting, but this method was not a reliable measure of stress. The low Pearson correlation coefficients observed among the methods made it impossible to designate only one of the tested methods as a replacement for the others, to measure the stress in laying hens during fasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbicide promotes physiological and biochemical changes even in tolerant species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the interference of the herbicides clodinafop-propargyl and 2,4-D in the antioxidant system of wheat, and iodosulfuron-methyl in wheat and ryegrass. Two studies, divided into three experiments, were conducted in an entirely randomized design in a greenhouse and phytotron. The first study tested herbicides iodosulfuron-methyl, clodinafop-propargyl, 2,4-D, and a control without application in wheat. The second, divided into two experiments with wheat and ryegrass, tested iodosulfuron-methyl doses (0, 1.75, 3.5, and 7.0 g a.i. ha-1). The variables analyzed were the concentrations of chlorophylls a, b, carotenoids, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipid peroxidation (TBARS), electrolyte leakage, and antioxidant system activity. The herbicide treatments iodosulfuron-methyl, clodinafop-propargyl, and 2,4-D decreased the concentrations of chlorophylls and carotenoids in wheat plants. The herbicides promoted oxidative stress with increased H2O2 and TBARS concentrations. Increasing the dose of iodosulfuron-methyl provided a reduction in the activity of the enzymatic antioxidant system in wheat and ryegrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitiligo is a chronic cutaneous disease characterized by the loss of melanocytes and consequent depigmentation of the skin, affecting approximately 0.5 to 2% of the global population. This complex dermatological condition has been the subject of extensive study in recent decades, aiming to understand its causes, pathophysiological mechanisms, and the development of effective therapeutic approaches. Evidence suggests that vitiligo results from a multifactorial interaction between genetic, autoimmune, environmental, and neuroendocrine factors. Immunological mechanisms, including oxidative stress and the autoimmune response targeted against melanocytes, play a crucial role in the disease's pathogenesis. Accurate diagnosis and effective management of vitiligo are essential to improve patients' quality of life. A variety of therapeutic options are available, including phototherapy, topical treatments, melanocyte transplantation surgery, and immunomodulatory therapies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of vitiligo, addressing its clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and treatment options based on the evidence available in the scientific literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous investigations have revealed that a functional fermented orange beverage presented in its composition different phenolic compounds, which through in silico investigation demonstrated to have biological effects of therapeutic importance as antioxidant, gastrorepair, and anti-ulcerative properties. Thus, this study confirmed in vivo, through a model of EtOH-induced gastric ulcers in rats, the beneficial properties indicated by the in silico tests. Gastric ulcer was induced by EtOH (intragastric) and was treated after 1 h with fermented orange beverage with and without Mentha piperita extract (0.5 mL/100 g w.b). Omeprazole was used as positive control. Histopathological evaluation revealed that EtOH administration resulted in the formation of gastric ulcers due to the reduction of the mucus layer, presence of hemorrhage, and infiltration of neutrophils in the stomach tissue of rats, and only treatment with omeprazole was able to reverse these changes. Additionally, EtOH administration altered the gastric juice volume and induced oxidative stress in the gastric tissue observed through the increase in lipid peroxidation (TBARS), reduction in the levels of non-protein thiols (NPSH), and alteration in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The ingestion of the fermented orange beverage increased NPSH levels and reduced changes in TBARS levels induced by ethanol. These findings suggested that the fermented orange beverage has antioxidant effects, as pointed out by in silico studies, but not gastrorepair and anti-ulcerative effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is caused by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species that generate an imbalance in the cellular antioxidant capacity. In this study, the effect of alpha-lipoic acid on microsomes isolated from rat brain and heart was analyzed by determining chemiluminescence (expressed as counts per minute) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. Oxidative stress was induced by subjecting the samples to an ascorbate-Fe++-dependent pro-oxidant system at 37 °C for 120 minutes. The inhibitory effect of alpha-lipoic acid was compared using different concentrations thereof, corresponding to 50, 150 and 250 [ig per mg of microsomal protein. Controls were performed simultaneously without the addition of the pro-oxidant. A significant increase in light emission and malondialdehyde was observed in the microsomes of both organs in the ascorbate-Fe++ group. Analysis of chemiluminescence levels and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances indicated that alpha-lipoic acid acted as an antioxidant that protected rat heart microsomes from damage by lipid peroxidation at all doses tested. In brain microsomes, alpha-lipoic acid was observed to act as an antioxidant only at the 150 |ig/ml dose. In the latter case, it will be necessary to test new doses of it to demonstrate the effects on these membranes. In conclusion, alpha-lipoic acid acted as an antioxidant to protect the membranes of both organs against peroxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scabies is one of the most common diseases in dogs. It threatens both animals and humans due to its zoonotic potential. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the oxidant/antioxidant balance with hematological findings in dogs infested with sarcoptic mange. Methods: The animals evaluated in this study consisted of 32 mixed-breed dogs between 1 and 2 years of age. The dogs were allocated into two groups: a control group (infestation-free animals; n=10), and a sarcoptic mange-infected group (Sarcoptes, n=22). Dogs in the Sarcoptes group showed infestation signs such as intense itching, excoriations, alopecia, and blistering of the elbow and auricular margins. Results: Significant increase (p<0.01) levels were observed in total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidative stress index (OSI), and nitric oxide (NO), while glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels in dogs infested with Sarcoptes decreased significantly (p<0.01). In addition, a significant increase (p<0.01) of WBC count in dogs in the sarcoptic group in comparison with the control was found. Conversely, there was significant decrease (p<0.01) in RBC, HGB, and PCV counts in Sarcoptes-infested dogs. Conclusions: Our study suggests a possible relationship between oxidant/antioxidant imbalance and hematological findings in dogs infested with sarcoptic mange. Furthermore, in addition to MDA, TAS, TOS, and OSI markers, NO as well as GSH might be also used to assess the oxidative stress in dogs naturally infected with Sarcoptes scabiei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated injuries sustained by Pimelodus maculatus caused by transient operating conditions in a Brazilian hydroelectric power plant. Fish (n = 43) that inhabited the tailrace and appeared on the water surface after changes in the operating conditions were evaluated (IF). Additionally, fish (n = 10) captured using longline in the vicinity of the tailrace were used for comparisons (NF). Blood samples were evaluated for cortisol, glucose, and lactate concentrations. Tissue samples (gill, liver, brain, and muscle) were analyzed for oxidative stress biomarkers (TBARS, protein carbonyl content, and catalase activity) and histology (gill, liver, and spleen). The most prominent findings in IF were barotraumas with intra-abdominal hemorrhage and swim bladder rupture. Cortisol and glucose concentrations were lower for IF when compared to NF. IF also suffered from oxidative stress, as indicated by increased TBARS in the liver and brain, as well as increased protein carbonyl content in the gills and liver. The main histological alterations induced by the adverse conditions were circulatory disorders, such as telangiectasia and gill aneurysm, hepatic congested veins, and hemorrhage in the liver and spleen. The abrupt drop of pressure resulting from changes in the operating conditions of the turbines caused barotraumas and oxidative stress, which were the leading causes of fish mortality [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heating rate used during semen thawing plays an important role in reducing structural and functional damage to spermatozoa. In this study, we evaluated the influence of thawing temperature on semen quality, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial activity of cryopreserved bovine semen. A total of 195 straws of 0.5 mL from five Holstein Friesian bulls were used (39 straws per bull). Samples underwent 8 to 22 years of storage; they were processed under a standard protocol with tris-egg yolk and stored in liquid nitrogen. Samples were thawed for 30 seconds in a water bath at T1: 36 °C, T2: 38 °C or T3: 40 °C. Sperm motility and kinematics, morphology, structural membrane integrity (SMI), functional membrane integrity (FMI), acrosome integrity (AI), ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM) of post-thawing bovine sperm were evaluated. Generalized linear models were fitted to the data. Each model included the effects of bull, storage time, and treatment. The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to assess data normality, and means were compared using the Tukey test. T2 and T3 showed better results for sperm motility and kinematic parameters, SMI (%) (T1 41.9 ± 2.3; T2 45.7 ± 1.9; T3 47.4 ± 2.8), ROS (RFU/min) (T1 0.026 ± 0.007; T2 0.032 ± 0.001; T3 0.031 ± 0.001) and high-ΔΨM (RFU x 103 ) (67.1± 0,4; 71.3 ± 0.4; 74.2 ± 0.4) (P < 0.05). However, T1 had higher FMI (39.3 ± 2.3) than T2 (34.0 ± 1.9) (P < 0.05), though not significantly (P > 0.05) different from T3 (38.4 ± 2.2). Thawing temperatures of 38 °C and 40 °C increases motility, kinetics, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and ROS of cryopreserved bovine semen, compared with more conventional thawing at 36 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: a phenolic-rich extract of Astronium urundeuva honey (PhEAH) was produced and its pharmacological proprieties were determined. Method: PhEAH was prepared using a solid-phase extraction column. Next, antibacterial and antifungal activities were evaluated by broth microdilution method and the antioxidant effect was investigated using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Urethral catheter sensitized with PhEAH were produced and its anti-adhesive and anti-biofilm effect determined. Finally, antitumoral and antiviral activities were studded using 3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2.5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test. Results: PhEAH showed an elevated total phenol concentration (PhEAH: 18.7±0.4 mg GA/g vs. fresh honey: 0.99±0.005 mg GA/g). Although PhEAH did not show significant antifungal and antiviral effects, it was moderately active against Gram-negative bacilli (Klebsiella aerogenes, K. pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter cloacae) and showed increased antibacterial activity against salmonellosis pathogens (Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis). PhEAH-impregnated urethral catheters inhibited the growth of various pathogenic bacteria and impaired the ability of P. aeruginosa to colonize and adhere to it. In addition to its antimicrobial activity, PhEAH presented antioxidant properties and reduced the viability of human glioblastoma cells. Conclusion: in conclusion, our study shows that PhEAH contains large amounts of phenolic compounds, which are associated with its antibacterial, anti-adhesive, antioxidant, and antitumor effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that may bring about harmful pollution of water and soil. Phytoremediation involving elements beneficial for plant development is a strategy to alleviate this problem. Silicon (Si) has shown potential in neutralizing biotic and abiotic stresses in plants, especially those caused by heavy metals. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether Si could mitigate the effects of Cd toxicity on growth, photosynthetic activity, and oxidative stress in seedlings of Enterolobium contortisiliquum. The experiment consisted of a completely randomized design with four replications. In addition to a control treatment, the following amounts of Cd, Si, and combinations were added to the complete nutrient solution: 1.5 mM Si; 3.0 mM Si; 1.5 mM Si + 100 µM Cd; 3.0 mM Si + 100 µM Cd; 100 µM Cd. Each sampling unit consisted of a tray containing 16 plants. Silicon concentrations of 1.5 and 3.0 Si mM were adequate to mitigate the effects of cadmium toxicity on Enterolobium contortisiliquum seedlings. The results showed that Si promoted photosynthetic activity, increased total chlorophyll, and decreased shoot lipid peroxidation in the presence of Cd. Furthermore, the lack of significant differences in shoot and root dry weight among treatments and low peroxidation content in roots suggest that E. contortisiliquum is tolerant to cadmium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a multifactorial disorder characterized by increased levels of free radicals. Both oxidative stress and obesity contribute to an inflammatory state of the disease, mainly by increasing the levels of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a). Considering that personal genetics may contribute to oxidative stress, this study assessed the impact of CAT C-262T polymorphism and GSTM1 and GSTT1 null polymorphisms on TNF-a levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study also evaluated whether the genetic variants act synergistically with obesity to increase TNF-a levels in patients with diabetes from Grande Vitória, Brazil. Methods: Fifty-six patients were included, of whom 28 were obese and 28 were nonobese. The CAT gene polymorphism was assessed using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method, whereas GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were assessed using multiplex PCR. TNF-a levels were measured using the sandwich ELISA technique. Results: Frequencies of GSTM1 and GSTT1 null polymorphisms were 44.6% and 17.9%, respectively. The genotype frequencies of CAT C-262T polymorphism were 73.2%, 25.0%, and 1.8% for normal homozygote, heterozygote, and polymorphic homozygote, respectively. Polymorphic genotypes were not associated with increased TNF-a levels, and there was no significant increase in TNF-a levels when evaluating the synergism between obesity and personal genetics. Conclusion: The presence of CAT, GSTM1, and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms was not associated with increased TNF-a levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Obesity alone or combined with personal genetics of CAT, GSTM1, and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms did not promote increased TNF-a levels in the study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obesity is a disease of multifactorial etiology responsible for generating a state of subclinical chronic inflammation. Melatonin, a hormone physiologically produced by the pineal gland, has been widely studied for its antiinflammatory effect in several diseases. Objective: To analyze the anti-inflammatory effects of melatonin supplementation in the treatment of obesity. Materials and Methods: This narrative review was carried out through a bibliographic survey, using the digital databases Pubmed, Scielo, Lilacs, Google Scholar and CAPES Periodicals. Results: A double-blind randomized study evaluated 44 women with obesity, who were randomly divided into a group that used melatonin (n=22) and another group that used placebo (n=22). It was observed that only the group of patients who used melatonin showed a significant reduction in the serum concentrations of inflammatory markers such as TNF alpha, IL-6, hsCRP and MDA. Another randomized double-blind study analyzed 30 patients with obesity who were randomized into 2 groups, group 1 (n=15) received 10 mg of melatonin and group 2 (n=15) received placebo. With melatonin supplementation, concentrations of adiponectin omentin 1 and GPx (antioxidant enzyme) increased significantly, while levels of MDA (marker of oxidative stress) decreased significantly. Conclusion: Although clinical studies on this topic are scarce and the existing ones have a small sample number, the results so far have demonstrated the effectiveness of melatonin in counterbalancing the deleterious effects of excess adipose tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As forage production increase, high-quality seeds demand follows. Priming have been reported as a technique for improve seed quality and stress tolerance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the priming agents effect on Urochloa ruziziensis seed germination and seedling establishment under water deficit and salt stress. A completely randomized experiment assessing six priming agents and three germination conditions were established. We evaluated: seed water content; germination percentage and speed index; viability of seeds remaining from the germination test; seedling length; antioxidant enzymatic activity; and malondialdehyde quantity. Seeds primed under water deficit and salt stress showed better physiological performance than dry seeds. There was a significant increase in seed germination percentage and speed and in seedling roots and shoots length. Sodium Nitroprusside shows significant potential for use in the physiological priming of U. ruziziensis seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine whether a homeopathic product based on Hepar sulfur, Rhus toxicodendron, Graphites, and Urtica urens would prevent atopic dermatitis in dogs. Ten male beagle dogs were used, divided into two groups with five repetitions per group. The control (CO) animals received a diet with 0.5 mL/day of placebo for 30 consecutive days in a preventive manner, and we later added ethoxyquin at 0.4 mg/day. The treated group (TRA) received a ration with 0.5 mL/day of homeopathic for 30 consecutive days as a preventive, and we later added ethoxyquin at 0.4 mg/day. Blood samples were collected on days 1, 30, and 40 to analyze antioxidant and oxidant status. In an ethogram, the presence of a crusted lesion, alopecic lesion, or hair loss was evaluated at three timepoints: pre-challenge, 5, and 10 days postchallenge. No lesions were observed in the pre-challenge period. Dogs fed the homeopathic on day 5 after challenge presented 40% less crusted lesion and 60% less hair loss than the control. Nitric oxide (NOx) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels increased over time in both groups (P < 0.001). On day 40 of the experiment, lower levels of NOx (P < 0.001) and ROS (P < 0.025) were observed in the TRA group than in the CO group. In contrast, glutathione S-transferase activity increased over time in both groups (P < 0.001); however, this increase on day 40 was more significant in the dogs in the treated group than in the control (P < 0.010). We conclude that the preventive addition of homeopathic reduced the incidence of skin lesions and prevented oxidative stress caused by canine atopic dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study identified physiological and biochemical changes in 'Fuyu' persimmon buds during dormancy. Branches were collected between March and August 2015. Dormancy was evaluated by biological testing of isolated node cuttings at 25 °C and a photoperiod of 16 h. The variables analyzed were water content; reducing sugar content; respiratory activity; activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), guaiacol peroxidase (POD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzymes; hydrogen peroxide content (H2O2) and lipid peroxidation. At the end of March 2015, the plants were already dormant, and the leaves and fruits present indicated a paradormancy effect. Induction of endodormancy may have occurred in June 2015, when chilling hours (CH) below 7.2 °C and higher CH below 12 °C began to accumulate, which coincided with the period in which there was a decrease in water content and respiratory activity, an increase in reducing sugars, a decrease in SOD, CAT, APX and PPO and an increase in H2O2. After an accumulation of 553 CH below 12 °C, the budburst capacity increased, and the buds presented increased water content, decreased reducing sugars content, increased respiratory activity, low activity in SOD, CAT, APX and POD and high levels of H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reuse of industrial waste from different processes, such as fertilizer or mineral supplement constitute sustainable disposal alternatives. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of using Animal Supplement Residue (RSA) in different granulometries as a component of the substrate of sunflower seedlings submitted to drought stress conditions. To obtain different particle sizes, four sieves with stainless steel mesh were used: 1 mm; 0.500 mm; 0.250 mm and 0.105 mm. The experimental design was completely randomized arranged in a factorial arrangement 2x6, being two water treatments (with and without irrigation for 3 days) and six types of substrates: (1: 100% in volume of sand; 2: Sand + commercial humus at 100% of the recommendation of 80 kg of N ha-1; 3: Sand + RSA 1 mm; 4: Sand + RSA 0.500 mm; 5: Sand + RSA 0.250 mm and 6: Sand + RSA 0.105 mm). Evaluating the growth variables (dry mass of the aerial part, of the root and total), as well as, measuring up the activities of the antioxidative enzymes [Catalase (CAT), Ascorbate Peroxidase (APX), Guaiacol Peroxidase (GPX) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)]. The use of animal supplement residue (RSA), with granulometry of 0.500 mm in soil fertilization, promotes the minimization of environmental impacts generated by inadequate disposal and causes cost reduction with traditional fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle injuries are frequent, both in the practice of exercises and in the work environment, and after the injury, healing begins. The inflammatory phase of muscle healing is accompanied by an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and a reduction in the antioxidant activity of defense enzymes. This imbalance between both can generate oxidative stress, which can cause oxidative damage by directly affecting vital cellular constituents, such as lipids, proteins and DNA, in addition to interfering negatively in the muscle cells differentiation. Therefore, substances or therapies that stimulate antioxidant repair and defense are crucial to keep the levels of free radical production low, and to minimize factors that delay or prevent tissue recovery, among these therapies photo biomodulation has stood out. The objective of this literature review is to clarify the FBM effect on oxidative stress and muscle repair. Therefore, a search was carried out in the databases of Pubmed, Scielo, Lilacs and PEDro, using the keywords "Photo biomodulation", "low power laser", "muscle repair", "oxidative stress", and in English were "Photo biomodulation", "low level laser therapy", "muscle repair" and "oxidative stress". The texts that addressed the research topic, published between 2000 and 2020, were chosen. After analyzing the articles, it was possible to observe that photo biomodulation, despite presenting a great variety of parameters, moment of application and irradiation protocol found in the literature, shows beneficial results in the repair muscle and in the reduction of oxidative stress and fatigue markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change can cause imbalances in plants. Baccharis trimera is a specie usually found in harsh conditions and has medicinal and agricultural properties. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the biochemical and physiological responses of this plant under water restriction (WR) levels. B. trimera samples were identified and collected in Erechim/RS and propagated in a greenhouse. When acclimated, they were subjected to 0, 25, 75 and 100% WR, determined according to the water saturation in the soil by capillary action. After 30 days of treatment, the physiological responses: growth, and fresh and dry biomass; and the biochemical responses: activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (GP) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzymes, proline, protein and hydrogen peroxide content, and lipid peroxidation, were determined. Data were submitted to regression analysis and Pearson correlation. The WR of 27.37%, on average, induced an increase in physiological parameters, but the root growth was impaired in conditions above 50% of WR. With the increase in WR there was an increase in the activity of SOD in the shoot and APX in the root. In low WR conditions, proline contents were maintained. Therefore, with low levels of WR, around 27%, B. trimera has increase in root growth and root and shoot biomass. Proline, and SOD and APX activity are a pathway that scavenging the stress generated by WR on B. trimera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postharvest conservation methods such as heat shock can increase the nutritional profile of fruits, inducing greater accumulation of antioxidants that participate in the physiological maintenance of fruits. The objective of this work was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of "Sweet Grape" tomatoes treated with heat shock in pre-storage. "Sweet Grape" tomatoes were heat shocked in hot water (45°C) for 10 min. and stored at room temperature for 9 days. β-carotene, ascorbic acid, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) were evaluated every 3 days. The pulp and skin of the treated tomatoes had higher β-carotene content than the control during storage, according to the findings. The content of total phenolic compounds in the pulp reduced, regardless of the treatment. There was a reduction of ascorbic acid, but with significantly higher values in the fruits treated on the third and sixth days of storage. The DPPH antioxidant activity of the pulp decreased, regardless of the treatment. In the skin there was a significant effect of the treatment until the sixth day. There was no variation in the ABTS antioxidant activity of the pulp of the treated tomatoes. There was no significant effect of heat shock on the FRAP antioxidant activity of the pulp until the sixth day. Heat shock promoted an increase in ß-carotene in tomato skin, which was related to increases in its DPPH antioxidant activity. The heat shock treatment promoted greater retention of ascorbic acid in the fruit, but it was not able to avoid its reduction during storage. The tomatoes' antioxidant biochemical response to heat shock is most expressed in their skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid cancers are multifactorial diseases, derived from the follicular epithelium and parafolicular cells. Deletion of the genes for glutathione-S-transferase, theta (GSTT1) and mu (GSTM1) may reduce the cells' ability to detoxify carcinogenic agents. Check whether there is an association between the presence or absence of GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms and thyroid cancers. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis, with selection of scientific articles in the databases: PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect and LILACS. The data from 15 articles were extracted and the statistical tests, considering a significance limit of 5%, were performed with the aid of the STATA® 16.0 software. The absence of the GSTM1 polymorphism pointed to an association with the development of thyroid cancers without segregation by type (OR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.01-1.32). However, the presence of GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms was not associated when thyroid cancers were stratified by types (papillary, follicular and papillary + follicular). The deletion of GSTM1 and GSTT1 reduces the defense against carcinogenic agents. However, the results of the present study pointed to the absence of an association between the presence of the GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms and the occurrence of types of thyroid cancer. On the other hand, the absence of GSTM1 was associated with thyroid cancers, when not stratified by types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low water availability in semiarid regions affects the development and productivity of agricultural crops. The work analyzed the effects of Salvinia auriculata application as a growth supplement and the activities of the antioxidative enzymes: superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and guaiacol peroxidase on leaves and roots of sunflower seedlings submitted to hydric stress conditions. The experimental design was entirely randomized, arranged in 2x3 factorial arrangement, being two irrigation systems (irrigated and non-irrigated) x three substrates (sand; sand + commercial humus 80 kg N ha-1; sand + Salvinia auriculata 120 kg N ha-1), with eight repetitions. The supplementation with Salvinia auriculata provided higher increments in height, number of leaves and total fresh mass. In addition, there were increases in the activities of the antioxidative enzymes in leaves and roots of sunflower seedlings, deducing that the supplementation with the macrophyte S. auriculata minimized the deleterious effects of hydric stress on the growth of sunflower seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder caused by beta cell dysfunction that interferes with insulin production and/or by the resistance of target organs to this hormone. An increase in free radicals together with a decline in antioxidant defenses, present in T2DM, can damage cellular organelles and promote the occurrence of disease complications. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are the main antioxidant enzymes involved in cellular defense against oxidative stress, and polymorphisms in genes encoding GSTs can lead to ophthalmic complications in persons with diabetes. In this study, we evaluated the influence of GST polymorphisms on the development of diseases such as cataract and glaucoma in patients with T2DM in Grande Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil. Methods: GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were investigated using a multiplex PCR technique. PCR-RFLP was used for the GSTP1 gene. Statistical analysis was performed with Fisher's exact test or the chi-square test, with P-value <0.05. Results: There was no relationship between GSTM1, GSTT1, or GSTP1 polymorphisms and the occurrence of diseases such as glaucoma and cataract in patients with T2DM. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null polymorphisms and the ile105Val polymorphism in the GSTP1 gene are not associated with individual susceptibility to the development of ophthalmic complications in persons with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water deficit and high temperature limit agricultural productivity, affecting plant growth, development, and metabolism. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the interaction between water deficit and temperature increase on cowpea production. The experiment was carried out with the cultivar BRS Rouxinol, in growth chambers, in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, being four soil water availability (25; 50; 75 and 100% of field capacity) and two daily temperature regimes (T°1: 20-26-33 °C and T°2: 24.8-30.8-37.8 °C). The increase in water availability favored an increase in shoot and root dry mass. The vegetative stage was prolonged in plants maintained at a temperature regime of 24.8-30.8-37.8 °C. The cowpea yield increased with higher water availability. The water availability of 90% was the one that provided the highest water use efficiency. The 4.8°C increase in air temperature promotes an increase in oxidative stress with lack of synchrony in the antioxidative defense system. The cultivar Rouxinol is sensitive to the increase in air temperature and water deficit. However, even with 100% water availability, there was no seed production with an increase in air temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxidative stress is involved in the pathophysiology of systemic arterial hypertension (HAS) and the role of antioxidants in this context still needs to be better understood. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of hypertension and the relationship with polyphenol intake and total dietary antioxidant capacity (DTAC) in climacteric women from Serra Gaúcha-RS, Brazil. Materials and methods: 41 women participated in the study (CEP 2,420,632; 12/07/2017) and they were subjected to measurements of weight, height, waist circumference, and blood pressure. Different questionnaires were applied to obtain sociodemographic and health information, in addition to the 24-hour Food Recall. Comparisons between the hypertensive and non-hypertensive groups were made using Student's t-test or chi-square. Results: The prevalence of HAS in the population was 29,27 % (IC95% 14,73; 43,81) and hypertensive women had a BMI statistically higher than nonhypertensive women (p=0.047). Although without a statistical difference, it was observed that the hypertensive group had decreased DTAC and total polyphenol intake (9 and 11% reduction, respectively). The mineral magnesium had its intake significantly reduced (30%; p=0.006) by hypertensive women. This group also had an intake below the recommended for vitamins A and E. Among the foods and beverages that contributed to increasing the participants' DTAC, coffee ranked first in both groups. Conclusion: These data demonstrate the importance of monitoring the consumption of antioxidants to prevent and/or control hypertension and diseases related to heart health in climacteric women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiological changes take place in the human body upon exposure to pesticides. These changes may be followed by oxidative stress, which is caused by imbalance between the antioxidant defense system and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Pesticides can cause inflammatory changes, which alter the structure of some cytokines essential for the functioning of the human body. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess the oxidative and inflammatory status of farmers exposed to pesticides. Blood samples from 50 exposed farmers and 50 non-exposed individuals (Control Group - CG) were collected. Oxidative stress and inflammatory marker levels were assessed. Na increase in TBARS (p<0.0001), IL-6 (p=0.03700), IL-8 (p=0.0011) and IL-10 (p=0.0011) levels was found, a decrease in enzymatic activity: SOD (p<0.001), CAT (p=0.0251), GPx (p<0.001), GST (p<0.001), GR (p<0.0001) in the evaluted farmers in relation to the CG data. Farmers demonstrated high oxidative damage. Low levels of antioxidants and inflammatory changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of photobiomodulation therapy in redox status, angiogenesis marker – vascular endothelial growth factor – and in the functional recovery in denervated muscle. Methods: A total of 32 female Wistar rats underwent a crush injury and were randomly divided into four groups: Light Emitting Diode Group 2 and Control Group 2 (muscle collected 2 days after injury), and Light Emitting Diode Group 21 and Control Group 21 (muscle collected 21 days afterinjury). Light Emitting Diode Group 2 and Light Emitting Diode Group 21 received two and ten light emitting diode applications (630±20nm, 9J/cm2, 300mW), respectively, and the Control Group 2 and Control Group 21 did not receive any treatment. The function was evaluated by grasping test at four moments (pre-injury, 2, 10 and 21 post-injury days). The flexor digitorum muscle was collected for analysis of immunolocalization of vascular endothelial growth factor and redox parameters. Results: Functional improvement was observed at the second and tenth post-injury day in treated groups compared to control (p<0.005). The muscle tissue of treated groups presented higher immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor. Photobiomodulation therapy decreased the oxidative damage to lipid in Light Emitting Diode Group 2 compared to Control Group 2 (p=0.023) in the denervated muscle. Conclusion: Photobiomodulation therapy accelerated the functional recovery, increased angiogenesis and reduced lipid peroxidation in the denervated muscle at 2 days after injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the use of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) as a medicinal plant, it is necessary to determine safe and effective concentrations and forms of use. In vitro cytotoxicity screening models provide preliminary data to select potentially beneficial safe doses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute cytotoxicity of different concentrations of a hydroethanolic extract of yerba mate leaves in two models of human blood cells. For this, erythrocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 10 healthy individuals were incubated with different concentrations of the hydroethanolic extract of yerba mate for 150 minutes at 37 ° C. After incubation, biochemical tests for cytotoxicity detection were performed. The concentration of 1000µg/mL of extract increased hemolysis, osmotic fragility and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes, but had no cytotoxic effect on mononuclear cells. These data suggest that high concentrations of extract can be toxic to some cell types and, therefore, safe concentrations of use are essential for the recommendation of yerba mate as a medicinal plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In this systematic review, we evaluated the link between inducers of oxidative or nitrosative stresses (OS/NS) and antifungal activity against fungi of medical relevance (including Candida spp., Cryptococcus spp., and Aspergillus spp.), through a direct action on the fungal cell or modulating phagocyte response. Moreover, the clinical implications of this biochemical event, as well as the perspectives, were examined, highlighting the search for new compounds with antifungal activity, mainly those from natural sources and, which explores the induction of OS or NS as part of the mechanism of action. Methodology: Articles from different databases and published at any time were evaluated, between April and June 2017, and using different descriptors. Results: First, a definition of OS and NS was established in which an increase in reactive oxygen or nitrogen species (ROS/RNS, quantified directly and from mitochondrial, Fenton reaction, endoplasmic reticulum or other fungal sources) should exceed the antioxidant defense capacity of the microorganism (evaluated by transcriptomic or proteomic or metabolomic profiles or enzyme activity levels). These events, by time and conditions delimited, can lead to the signaling of apoptosis or an actual damage toward biomolecules (lipid peroxidation or protein oxidation or DNA damage) and, consequently, they can cause cell death or other associated antifungal effect. Therefore, 64 articles were found, of these, only one was published before 2000 and 50 between 2007-2017, reporting the induction of OS or NS directly into the fungal cell via an increase in ROS or RNS as part of the mechanism of action of classical antifungal agents (22 publications), such as: azoles (fluconazole, itraconazole, and miconazole), polyenes (amphotericin B, [AnB]), and echinocandins (micafungin). This redox modulation has also been reported as an important therapeutic target in the search for new natural compounds with antifungal activity (32 publications), which is supported for the great variety of inducers from nature. Compounds that also induce the oxidative burst of phagocytes, including AnB, promote a combinatorial antifungal effect in vivo. In addition to the antifungal effect against planktonic cells, the relation between OS or NS and antifungal activity against fungal biofilms has also been reported. It has been established in the recent literature a clear link between OS or NS and antifungal effect, during the action of antifungal agents already used in the therapy in humans as well as for possible drug candidates. Thus, the induction of OS or NS as part of the mechanism of action proves to be an important therapeutic target with favorable perspectives on the outcomes in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of pasteurization on antioxidant and oxidant properties of human milk. Methods: 42 samples of milk before and after pasteurisation were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity by the ferric reducing capacity and by scavenging the 2,2’-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzthiazoline- 6-sulfonic acid radical. Lipid peroxidation was estimated by the concentration of malondialdehyde product using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay and by the evaluation of advanced oxidation protein products. Results: No significant difference was observed in fresh human milk and after pasteurization in relation to antioxidant properties determined by the ferric reducing capacity (50.0±3.4% and 48.8±3.0%, respectively) and by scavenging the 2,2’-azinobis 3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical (28.9±1.5% and 31.2±1.3%, respectively). The results of malondialdehyde (62.6±4.1 and 64.3±3.6 μM/mg) and protein oxidation products (59.4±3.4 and 54.2±3.8 μM/L) of fresh and pasteurized milk, respectively, did not exhibited an y significant difference. Conclusions: This data showed that human milk has an important antioxidant activity and that the pasteurizing process does not influence the antioxidant capacity, avoiding the peroxidation of breast milk lipids and the formation of advanced protein oxidation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introdução: Os estudos toxicológicos não clínicos desempenham um papel crucial no processo de desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos, pois possibilitam a previsão de riscos, o que torna interessante para dimensionar potenciais efeitos adversos prejudiciais aos seres humanos. A realização desses testes contribui para uma compreensão mais profunda da relação entre a dose administrada e a resposta do organismo. Além disso, se a dose é vista como tóxica, muitas vezes pode-se observar estresse oxidativo (EO) tecidual. O EO é caracterizado como um desequilíbrio entre a geração de espécies reativas e o sistema antioxidante endógeno de defesa, culminando em danos celulares. Diversos compostos químicos provocam danos celulares ao ativar metabolicamente substâncias altamente reativas, tais como os radicais livres. Esses, desencadeiam uma série de processos biológicos, incluindo apoptose, necrose e autofagia, resultando sinais de toxicidade. Em estudo anterior, avaliou-se o potencial antidepressivo de sais de piridínio com selênio, destacando dois com diferenças significativas, agora sujeitos a avaliação de toxicidade oral na continuação do experimento. Objetivo: Avaliar a toxicidade oral aguda de sais de piridínio contendo selênio através da análise do EO em diferentes tecidos ex vivo. Método: Os compostos brometo de 1-(2-oxo-2-feniletil)-2-((fenilselanil)metil)piridín-1-io (3A) e brometo de 1-(2-oxo-2-(p-tolil)etil)-2-((fenilselanil) metil)piridín-1-io (3B) foram desenvolvidos pelo Laboratório de Síntese Orgânica Limpa (LASOL) da UFPel. Os estudos foram realizados seguindo protocolos aprovados pela Comissão de Ética no Uso de Animais (CEUA) da UFPel. Realizou-se uma avaliação de toxicidade oral aguda em camundongos Swiss fêmeas, seguindo o protocolo 423 da OECD, utilizando duas doses (50 e 300 mg/kg) de ambos os compostos. A toxicidade (N=6/grupo) foi avaliada em dois passos utilizando grupos controles e tratados (sal A e B), iniciando pela menor dose (50 mg/kg) e, após, ampliando o estudo para a maior dose (300 mg/kg). Após, os animais foram eutanasiados e amostras de cérebro, fígado e rim foram coletadas para a análise de dano oxidativo através do ensaio de espécies reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) ex vivo. O software GraphPad Prism foi utilizado para análise dos dados. Os resultados foram expressos como a média ± erro padrão da média, sendo analisados por teste t não pareado. Foram considerados significativos p<0,05. Resultados: O TBARS não revelou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre o grupo controle e as doses de 50 mg/kg ou 300 mg/kg para o composto 3A nos três tecidos avaliados. Porém, para o composto 3B, houve um aumento dos níveis de lipoperoxidação no fígado de animais expostos à dose de 50 mg/kg e uma redução no rim daqueles tratados com a dose de 300 mg/kg, sugerindo alterações do estado redox sob estas condições. É importante mencionar que a dose efetiva terapêutica do composto B encontrada em estudos anteriores sobre ação do tipo antidepressiva foi de 2,5 mg/kg, consideravelmente menor do que doses utilizadas neste estudo. Conclusão: Em suma, os dados obtidos demonstram que o tratamento oral desses sais de piridínio contendo selênio resulta em baixa toxicidade oral em camundongos fêmeas, tornando-os moléculas promissoras para a continuação das pesquisas já em andamento. Mais estudos são necessários para entender os mecanismos subjacentes às alterações encontradas, sejam elas antioxidantes ou pró-oxidantes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a type of dementia that affects millions of people, accounting for 60% of all cases of neurodegenerative diseases. Although there is no cure, several study strategies have been developed to elucidate the mechanisms of the disease. Recent studies approach benefits of cortisol in immunological, muscular, renal aspects, inflammatory responses and even neurodegenerative pathologies. Hydrocortisone is a synthetic medicine used to simulate cortisol. Therefore, this study explores the effects of hydrocortisone on neural senescence, aiming to analyze its neuroprotective effect. Thus, an in vitro experimental model of oxidative stress was developed, induced by hydrogen peroxide in the Neuro-2a cell line (Murine Neuroblastoma) for the purpose of mimetizing aspects characteristic of Alzheimer's Disease. Cell viability and morphology experiments were conducted. Low concentration of hydrocortisone promoted an increase in cell viability, whereas hydrogen peroxide decreased cell viability, with the effect of oxidative stress. In the morphological aspect, hydrocortisone preserved cell projections, while hydrogen peroxide caused the projections to retract, thus losing synapsis. With the results obtained, it can be concluded that hydrocortisone preserved the neural cell from the effect of oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a systemic infection that causes multiple organ dysfunction. HSP70 is a protein responsive to cell stress, in particular oxidative stress. Therefore, this literature review sought to investigate the roles of HSP70 and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of sepsis and the possibility of HSP70 as a therapeutic target. HSP70 exerts a protective effect when located in cells (iHSP70), and its decrease, as well as its increase in the extracellular environment (eHSP70), under oxidative stress is a biomarker of sepsis severity. In addition, therapies that increase iHSP70 and treatment with HSP70 promote sepsis improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is in the early stages of the vegetative phase, when the plant manifests its greatest susceptibility to sudden changes in environmental conditions and unleashes adaptive pathways that include changes in the structure of cell membranes, as they are the first to respond to damage. The bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a crop of agricultural interest that can accumulate heavy metals and therefore, the possibility of developing mechanisms of tolerance to this type of stress. For these reasons, the work aimed to determine the existence of changes in the plasma membrane and in the antioxidant activity of leaves in bean plants germinated in presence of heavy metals. Seeds of the variety CC-25-9-N were germinated under controlled conditions with six specific concentrations of Pb2+, Ni2+ and Cu2+ cations. Fifteen days after seed's germination, the tolerance limit, the lethal dose and changes in the permeability of the leaf membranes were determined through electrical conductivity, pH and the activity of total peroxidases and guaiacol peroxidase. The variability in the membrane permeability was checked from differences in the values of the electrical conductivity and the pH in each of the treatments, which depended on the metal and the concentration under study, as well as on the activity of the enzymes analyzed. These results suggest a possible specificity in the plant - metal interaction that implicate different response mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a natural process characterized by a progressive decline in the physiological integrity and regenerative capacity of the body. In pathological aging, decline is accelerated and is often associated with a systemic pro-inflammatory status. Reactive species of oxygen and other free radicals are produced naturally in metabolism and during inflammation, but in excess they cause oxidative stress and tissue damage. With aging, the accumulation of oxidative changes alters the structure and function of biomolecules and cellular components such as membranes and organelles, making the organism globally more susceptible to stressors and pathogens. This review will focus on the contribution of oxidative stress to the different molecular mechanisms of aging. Aging is the main risk factor for the development of chronic--degenerative diseases. Therefore, the understanding of its molecular mechanisms will contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies aimed at increasing the quality of life in aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to evaluate physiological and growth-associated drought tolerance responses of mycorrhiza inoculated T. aestivum L., cv. Chamran seedlings with G. mosseae in flag leaves and roots. The arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) or non-AM wheat seedlings under normal or water-stressed conditions were assessed for growth parameters, relative water content (RWC), solute aggradation, lipid peroxidation, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Outcomes reflected the enhancing influence of AM on seedlings under drought stress: mycorrhization of zero and 32.25% in non-AM and AM seedlings, respectively, fresh weight and dry weight of shoots (28.5 and 27.34%, respectively) and roots (28.86 and 31.68%, respectively), RWC (55.15%), phosphorus concentration in shoots and roots (69.25 and 95.36%), total soluble protein and carbohydrate content in shoots (52.63 and 15.80%, respectively) and roots (30.65 and 9.80%, respectively), catalase (28.66 and 31.43%), superoxidase dismutase (28.44 and 15.27%), glutathione reductase (44.62 and 18.84%), ascorbate peroxidase (15.58 and 39.49%) and reduction in proline accumulation of shoot and root (45.01 and 44.03%) and lipid peroxidation (52.27 and 57.26%) by comparison to non-inoculated stressed seedlings. Photosynthetic pigments including chlorophyll a (77.28%), chlorophyll b (51.70%), chlorophyll total (66.76%), and carotenoid (51.75%) and antioxidative secondary metabolites such as total phenolic compounds (36.25%), total flavonoid content (30%) and total anthocyanin content (29.52%) additionally increased in flag leaves of water-stressed AM plants. Taking into account all the results of this study, it can be concluded that AM inoculation of wheat plants may considerably alleviate the harmful effects of water deficit stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the nutritional risk factors in patients eligible for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted with patients recruited from an hematology outpatient clinic. Study variables included demographic and clinical data, patient-generated global subjective assessment findings, anthropometric indicators, food intake and oxidative stress levels. The level of significance was set at 5% (p<0.05). Results: The sample comprised 72 patients, mean age of 48.93 years (14.5%). Multiple myeloma was the most prevalent condition (51.4%) in this sample. Most patients (55.6%) were overweight according to body mass index and at risk of cardiovascular disease according to waist circumference, conicity index and percentage of body fat. Sarcopenia was associated with risk of cardiovascular disease, hip-to-waist ratio (p=0.021), muscle strength depletion (p<0.001), food intake (p=0.023), reduced functional capacity (p=0.048), self-reported well-nourished status; p=0.044) and inadequate vitamin B6 (p=0.022) and manganese (p=0.026) intake. Elevated oxidative stress, detected in 33.3% of patients in this sample, was not associated with sarcopenia. Conclusion: Most patients in this sample were overweight and sarcopenic. Lean mass depletion was associated with risk of cardiovascular disease, reduced muscle strength, food intake changes, reduced functional capacity, self-reported well-nourished status and inadequate intake of vitamin B6 and manganese, but not with oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of oxidative stress on insulin signaling in cardiac tissue of obese mice. Methods: Thirty Swiss mice were equally divided (n=10) into three groups: Control Group, Obese Group, and Obese Group Treated with N-acetylcysteine. After obesity and insulin resistance were established, the obese mice were treated with N-acetylcysteine at a dose of 50mg/kg daily for 15 days via oral gavage. Results: Higher blood glucose levels and nitrite and carbonyl contents, and lower protein levels of glutathione peroxidase and phosphorylated protein kinase B were observed in the obese group when compared with their respective control. On the other hand, treatment with N-acetylcysteine was effective in reducing blood glucose levels and nitrite and carbonyl contents, and significantly increased protein levels of glutathione peroxidase and phosphorylated protein kinase B compared to the Obese Group. Conclusion: Obesity and/or a high-lipid diet may result in oxidative stress and insulin resistance in the heart tissue of obese mice, and the use of N-acetylcysteine as a methodological and therapeutic strategy suggested there is a relation between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the oxidative profile, nutritional status and food intake (caloric value; macronutrients; vitamins A, E and C; and zinc), and to correlate oxidative stress with nutritional status in patients who were candidates for liver transplant. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, analytical, and descriptive study with 51 candidates for liver transplant. Sociodemographic and clinical data, anthropometric parameters, food consumption, and a 10mL blood sample were collected from each patient. Oxidative stress was analyzed by the thiobarbituric acid method. The consumption of macronutrients, caloric value and micronutrients (zinc, vitamins A, E and C) were qualitatively analyzed, and zinc was also quantitatively analyzed. Results: The mean age was 49.17±8.17 years. The highest percentage of malnutrition was according to arm muscle circumference (56.86%), followed by arm circumference (52.94%), triceps skin fold (50.98%), and body mass index (1.96%). The mean malondialdehyde level was 14.80±8.72µM/L, presenting a negative correlation with the body mass index for patients with liver cirrhosis according to IMC-Campillo values (p=0.001; r=-0.430). Low energy, carbohydrate, protein, vitamin A and E consumption were observed in more than 50% of subjects. Conclusion: This study showed an association of nutritional status through body mass index for patients with liver cirrhosis according to IMC-Campillo, with oxidative stress in patients with liver cirrhosis on a liver transplant waiting list. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coffee pulp has a high content of antioxidants capable of modifying the oxidative status in small ruminants. However, high amounts for a prolonged time can reduce fertility. Objective: To determine the effect of two inclusion levels of coffee pulp during estrous synchronization on reproductive variables and oxidative status of primiparous ewes. Methods: Sixty Suffolk x Dorset primiparous ewes were distributed into three treatments in a completely randomized design; T0: (n=20) 1.5 kg balanced diet, T1: (n=20) 1.5 kg balanced diet and 5% coffee pulp, T2: (n=20) 1.5 kg balanced diet and 10% coffee pulp. Supplementation was given for 16 days before estrus synchronization and until the beginning of the breeding season. A progestogen (CIDR®) was inserted for 11 days and a dose of PGF2α was applied two days prior to its withdrawal. Estrus detection started 12 hours after CIDR withdrawal. Blood samples were obtained during the supplementation period to measure oxidative status, antioxidant capacity, glucose and insulin, and up to 9 days after breeding to determine progesterone concentration. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed at 30 and 60 days post-breeding. An analysis of repeated measures of mixed effects and frequency analysis were carried out. Results: Inclusion of coffee pulp for a short period prior to breeding did not affect reproductive parameters, nor progesterone, glucose or insulin concentrations (p>0.05); however, antioxidant capacity increased, while lipid oxidation showed an opposite trend (p<0.05). Conclusion: Inclusion of up to 10% coffee pulp in the diet of ewe lambs for 16 days prior to breeding improves oxidative status without causing adverse effects on pregnancy, estrus or prolificacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paraquat (Pq) intoxications are frequent in the country and its toxic mechanism of action involves the generation of oxidative stress, which can be combated with exogenous antioxidants such as quercetin (Q). Thus, when assessing the role of this flavonoid in damage caused by Pq, in an experimental animal model, in vitro, a reduction in the level of hepatic lipoperoxidation was observed, suggesting a greater sensitivity of this tissue than the renal. Also, when in association, Pq + Q were able to provoke inhibition of the enzyme d-aminolevulinate dehydratase (d-ALA-D), possibly by chelation mechanism, unrelated to the sulfhydryl groups of the enzyme. In silico, Q presented good intestinal absorption, high plasma protein binding, mutagenic, carcinogenic and inhibitory potential on metabolic enzymes. Thus, it is believed that the diet rich in Q or its supplementation can bring health benefits to the population, especially those exposed to herbicides, such as Pq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin was discovered by Lerner and Coworkers in 1958, and is the main product secreted by the pineal gland. It is a phylogenetically highly conserved molecule and one of the oldest biological signaling mechanisms. It presents several biological functions, among them the most studied is the regulation of the sleep cycle and wakefulness. In addition, melatonin acts as an immunomodulatory, antioxidant molecule and has anticarcinogenic potential. It also participates in the regulation of mood and control of seasonal reproduction. Melatonin is a potent free radical scavenger and several of its metabolites have the ability to remove singlet oxygen, superoxide radicals, hydroperoxides, hydroxyl radicals and radical lipid peroxides. It easily penetrates cell membranes by being soluble in aqueous and organic media, playing a key role in cell biology. Although their activities are interesting for therapy, their low availability, short half-life, and rapid metabolism restrict their use. In this sense, nanotechnology is a tool that has been studied for the elaboration of systems that improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of melatonin, in order to potentiate its application in biological models. This review summarizes several studies published in recent years that have shown the most numerous biological activities of melatonin and the improvement of their therapeutic potential through nanotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metalworking industry, especially welding processes, is one of the most economically active in the world. Transformation and joining of metal parts are used in many labor activities, such as construction. Welding uses different metal mixtures to carry out bonding through various processes. The greatest chemical risk associated with welding is the emission of metallic fumes, which enter the body mainly through the respiratory system, producing effects in all systems of the human body. Therefore, studies are needed to support the control of exposures to these chemicals in the workplace, as well as the limitation of emissions to the environment, by governments, employers, and workers. Research, innovation, development and use of chemicals advance very fast, especially in welding where new mixtures or metal alloys are used every day. However, knowledge of the effects of these chemicals does not advance at the same speed. This review intends to make a compilation of investigations on the last 20 years about exposition of heavy metals by inhalation of metallic fumes, emphasizing a description of the most used metals in welding, and its relationship with oxidative stress and health effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is a pathological process that occurs when the blood supply of the brain is interrupted, reducing or completely stopping the oxygenation and arrival of nutrients. The brain is a very attractive organ for various oxidative reactions, because it has a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are highly susceptible to peroxidation, low concentration of antioxidants and high consumption of oxygen. Molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood, but there is evidence that ROS and RNs are important actors in actions that damage brain tissue1. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms of action of oxidative and nitrosative stress and antioxidant systems in stroke, as well as its association with disease severity and evolution. Attempts to intervene with antioxidants in the AVE will also be reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is defined as a pathophysiological condition in which the production of reactive species exceeds the ability of the body's antioxidant defenses to remove them. Assessing the degree of oxidative stress is essential for understanding the various physiological processes that maintain homostasy in the various phases of the life cycle. For this, several simple and inexpensive techniques can be employed. The present work proposes to present some techniques to study the study of oxidative stress, reflecting on its potentialities and limitations. It can be said that the credibility of the study is elevated by the careful standardization of the techniques, rigor of the experimental design and the confirmation of the results through different techniques that evaluate different processes that determine the redox balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, and is considered an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Objective: To investigate the association of smoking with sex, redox metabolism and cardiometaboic risk factors of 381 elderly from the Family Health Strategy of Porto Alegre. Method: To categorize smoking, followed by the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC). We studied the following oxidative stress markers investigated: advanced products of protein oxidation (AOPP), nitric oxide metabolites (NOx), the antioxidant capacity was measured by Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma (FRAP). Cardiometabolic risk factors were also evaluated. Results: Regarding sex/smoking, women are more often non-smokers (P = 0.001). Former male smokers had higher concentrations of FRAP (P = 0.001), and smokers had higher concentration of NOx (0.012), lower average waist circumference-WC (P = 0.017), body mass index-BMI (P = 0.003) and increased HDL-c levels (P = 0.003). There were found significant results among women. Conclusion: The elderly male smokers presented lower values of WC, BMI and HDL-c, but smokers presented increased NOx concentration, which is a oxidative stress biomarker associated with cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it is important to emphasize the importance in preventing and adhering to smoking cessation to avoid cardiovascular comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In order to explore the nutritional and bioactive characteristics of the olive leaf, the study aimed to evaluate the biological potential of olive leaves by analyzing the effect of leaf extract on the glycemic and lipid profile of Wistar rats subjected to a hyperlipidic diet. Methodology: The experiment lasted 70 days; animals were divided and randomly distributed into 4 groups of 6 rats each, being N: normocaloric diet + water; H: hyperlipidic diet + water; NE: normocaloric diet + extract; and HE: hyperlipidic diet + extract. At the end of the experiment the effect of the aqueous extract of olive leaves on glycemia, lipid profile and lipid peroxidation were determined in rats. Results: The consumption of olive leaf extract by rats promoted changes in lipid profile and beneficial effect on the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels. Conclusions: Due to their chemical composition, rich in nutrients and compounds with bioactive properties, in addition to its considerable antioxidant and biological activities, olive leaves can be an option as a food supplement with biological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Under normal physiological conditions, free radicals are involved in reproductive events such as cell cycle activation, ovulation and luteolysis. However, when an overproduction of free radicals surpasses antioxidant capacity, oxidative damage, reproductive anomalies and diminished fertility occur. Supplementation with antioxidants prevents oxidative damage and can be incorporated into reproductive management to improve fertility in females. Selection of the preovulatory follicle, ovulation, fertilization, embryo development and formation of the corpus luteum occur during the periconceptional period. This is a dynamic period and the events are susceptible to oxidative stress damage. Therefore, the objective of this review is to discuss the effect of oxidative stress on reproductive events during the periconceptional period, as well as to address antioxidant supplementation during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introdução: Na região sudoeste do estado do Paraná cuja economia é baseada na agricultura familiar e no agronegócio, foi observado que mulheres expostas ocupacionalmente aos agrotóxicos apresentam câncer de mama (CM) com pior prognóstico. A detoxificação dos agrotóxicos inclui proteínas da família UDP-glucuronosiltransferase (UGTs), formada por um grupo de enzimas que participam das reações de fase II do metabolismo. O polimorfismo rs7438135 (G>A) no gene UGT2B7 aumenta seu potencial de glucuronidação e atua como um sistema antioxidante devido à neutralização de metabólitos do estresse oxidativo. Objetivo: analisar o impacto da exposição a agrotóxicos na presença do polimorfismo rs7438135 do gene UGT2B7 nos níveis sistêmicos de estresse oxidativo e perfil clínico-patológico de mulheres portadoras de câncer de mama Método: foram coletadas amostras de sangue periférico de 228 pacientes atendidas no Hospital do Câncer de Francisco Beltrão. As pacientes foram agrupadas em expostas ocupacionalmente a agrotóxicos (134) e não expostas a agrotóxicos (94), portadoras ou não do alelo A no gene UGT2B7. A presença do polimorfismo rs7438135 foi detectada por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase quantitativa em tempo real (RT-qPCR). Marcadores de estresse oxidativo (níveis de peroxidação lipídica, capacidade antioxidante total - TRAP e metabólitos de óxido nítrico - NOx) foram mensurados no plasma pela técnica de quimiolunescência. Os dados clínico-patológicos das pacientes foram obtidos por meio dos prontuários. Resultados: A exposição aos agrotóxicos aumentou a lipoperoxidação sistêmica nas mulheres portadoras do alelo mutante (AA+AG) com tumores com alto ki67 (p=0,0337) e com alta agressividade (subtipos triplo-negativo e Luminal B) (p=0,0130). Os níveis de NOx foram aumentados em pacientes portadoras de tumores com elevado ki67 (p=0,0300), receptores de progesterona positivos (p=0,0360), tumores de baixo grau (p=0,0519), subtipos triplo-negativos/Luminal B (p=0,0268) e pacientes estratificadas com baixo risco de óbito e recidiva (p=0,0233). A TRAP foi diminuída em pacientes jovens (p=0,055) e naquelas com tumores triplo-negativos/Luminal B (p=0,0246), bem como naquelas estratificadas como de baixo risco de óbito e recorrência (p=0,0384). Conclusão: Os resultados do presente estudo apontam que, i) a presença do polimorfismo (AA+AG) no gene UGT2B7, que eleva a atividade enzimática e por esse motivo deveria levar a uma eliminação ideal dos agrotóxicos, não foi capaz de evitar o estresse oxidativo e nitrosativo em pacientes com CM e ii) indicam um possível, porém não elucidado papel dos agrotóxicos na supressão da atividade das enzimas UGT2B7 que poderia potencialmente contribuir para a progressão do tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introdução: O excesso de lipídeos favorece o desbalanço energético e leva ao remodelamento do tecido adiposo. O extrato hidroalcóolico do caroço do açaí (ASE) tem efeitos antiobesidade e o exercício físico é uma terapia nãofarmacológica. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do tratamento com o ASE associado ou não ao exercício físico moderado no remodelamento do tecido adiposo e no estresse oxidativo em ratos Sprague-Dawley submetidos à dieta hiperlipídica. Métodos: Setenta e cinco ratos machos Sprague-Dawley foram divididos em cinco grupos: CT (Dieta 10% lipídeos), HF (Dieta 55% lipídeos), HFA (HF + ASE 200 mg/kg/dia), HFT (HF + treinamento físico) e HFTA (HF + treinamento físico + ASE 200 mg/kg/dia). As dietas foram ofertadas por 16 semana, o ASE ou veículo foram administrados por gavagem intragástrica a partir da décima semana junto com o exercício físico aeróbico (na esteira rolante por 30 min/dia, 5 dias/semana) por seis semanas. Tecido adiposo visceral (TAB-v) e subcutâneo (TAB-s) foram usados para avaliar as alterações morfológicas e o estresse oxidativo. Análise estatística foi feita através de One-Way ANOVA com pós-teste de Turkey. Resultados: Os grupos HFA e HFTA tiveram uma redução no ganho de massa corporal e as três abordagens reduziram o índice de adiposidade em relação ao HF, assim como a massa do TAB-v e TAB-s. Somente os tratamentos associados reduziram os níveis plasmáticos de triglicerídeos (TG), enquanto o ASE e o tratamento associado reduziram os níveis de ácidos graxos livres (AGL) em relação ao grupo HF. Todos os tratamentos reduziram a área seccional média (ASM) dos adipócitos no TAB-v e no TAB-s quando comparados ao grupo HF. Além disso, no TAB-s, a associação dos tratamentos promoveu indução de browning. Em relação ao dano oxidativo, todos os tratamentos reduziram os níveis de MDA nos dois tecidos em relação ao grupo HF. No entanto, somente no TAB-s, o HFT e HFTA mostraram essa redução em relação ao grupo CT. Quanto à atividade das enzimas antioxidantes, no TAB-v, os grupos HFA e HFTA tiveram um aumento da SOD, CAT e GPx em relação ao grupo HF. No TAB-s, os grupos HFT e HFTA tiveram aumento da atividade da SOD em relação ao HF, HFA e HFTA aumentaram a atividade da CAT em relação ao HF, e somente o tratamento com ASE aumentou a atividade da GPx em relação ao HF. Conclusão: Esses achados demonstram o efeito benéfico do ASE ou do treinamento físico isolados na redução do ganho de massa corporal, redução dos níveis AGL, da ASM dos adipócitos e na melhora do estresse oxidativo. A associação entre os tratamentos reduziu o ganho de massa corporal e o conteúdo de TG, além de promover o browning no TAB-s, indicando que essas são abordagem efetivas no tratamento da obesidade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the relation between oxidative stress markers, human papillomavirus infection and cervical cancer precursor lesions. Methods: The study comprised women aged 14 to 60 years living in communities located by Amazon rivers in the state of Pará (Itaituba, Limoeiro do Ajuru and Bragança, 126, 68 and 43 women respectively). Papanicolau smears and polymerase chain reaction tests for human papillomavirus DNA detection were performed. Blood samples were collected to test malondialdehyde, total and oxidized glutathione levels. Results: Malondialdehyde, total and oxidized glutathione concentrations did not differ significantly (p>0.05) between women with and without low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions across communities. Malondialdehyde levels (8.02nmols/mL) were almost five times higher in human papillomavirus-positive compared to human papillomavirus-negative women (1.70nmols/mL) living in Itaituba (statistically significant difference; p<0.05). Malondialdehyde levels did not differ significantly (p>0.05) between human papillomavirus-positive and human papillomavirus-negative women living in remaining communities. Significant (p<0.05) differences in total glutathione levels between human papillomavirus-positive and human papillomavirus-negative women (8.20μg/mL and 1.47μg/mL, respectively) were limited to those living in Bragança. Conclusion: Malondialdehyde and total glutathione levels were significantly associated with human papillomavirus infection. However, lack of similar associations with squamous lesions suggest oxidative stress alone does not explain correlations with cervical carcinogenesis. Other factors may therefore be involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]