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Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia (ALHE) is a benign vascular proliferative disorder with uncertain etiology and pathogenesis. The aim of this paper is to report a case of ALHE in the temporal artery and discuss the general aspects of this pathology. A 29-year-old female black patient sought the Vascular Surgery Outpatient Service, complaining of bulging in the right temporal region, associated with pain and local discomfort. Physical examination revealed pulsatile bulging in the right temporal region measuring approximately 2.5 × 1.5 cm. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance showed an expansive fusiform lesion in the superficial soft parts of the right temporal region, measuring 2.9 cm in the longest longitudinal axis. Surgical excision proved to be the best therapeutic option for the patient in this case. Histopathological sections showed the proliferation of vessels of different sizes, covered by swollen endothelium, prominent inflammatory infiltrate composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, and scarce histiocytes. Immunohistochemical analysis of the lesion showed positivity for CD31, corroborating the diagnosis of ALHE., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: The study aimed to determine the proportion of the body segments in relation to the total body mass in healthy people, as well as analyze the composition of each segment and compare these results between sexes., Methods: A total of 60 young adults (30 men and 30 women) were subjected to a full-body scan by dual energy X-rays absorptiometry (DXA) under standardized conditions. The regions of interest (ROI) were determined by a single trained evaluator. The body was divided into 16 segments to obtain values of total mass, lean mass (LM), fat mass, bone mineral content (BMC), lean mass percentage (%LM) and fat mass percentage (%FM) of each body segment represented by the 16 ROI., Results: Men presented higher absolute mass in the upper limbs (Δ=32.87%; P<0.05). The proportion of the lower limbs (Δ=6.83%; P<0.05) and trunk (Δ=5.07%; P<0.05) of men is higher than women. In addition, males have more LM in the upper limbs (Δ=42.19%; P<0.05) and trunk (Δ=26.46%; P<0.001), and more BMC in the trunk (Δ=18.78%; P<0.05) and forearms (Δ=32.21%; P<0.05). They also present higher %LM (Δ=6.48%; P<0.001) and lower %FM (Δ=54.43%; P<0.001) than women in the forearms., Conclusions: The different body segments represent a different percentage of the total body mass in men than in women, as well as men present more LM and BMC in the trunk and upper limbs.

The etiological agent of COVID-19, which causes severe respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and pulmonary insufficiency, has been confirmed as a new coronavirus, now known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). There is currently no authorized medication for the treatment of COVID-19. No vaccines have been authorized. Thus, this study aimed at conducting a review of the use of Remdesivir in patients with COVID-19. The following electronic databases were used MEDLINE, SCIELO, LILACS, and PUBMED. On May 1, Remdesivir received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration. Remdesivir is currently the most promising molecule in the treatment of COVID-19, taking into account its broad antiviral spectrum (considering the genetic sequences of the virus, it is expected to maintain activity against SARS-CoV-2). There is in vitro and in vivo information available for coronaviruses, as well as an extensive clinical safety database (from a clinical trial of the Ebola virus and in the context of the Monitored Emergency Use of Unregistered and Investigational Interventions - MEURI). Further studies are relevant as available data on the efficacy and safety of Remdesivir against SARS-nCoV-2 are limited.

The present study aimed to review the epidemiology, clinical manifestation, laboratory diagnosis, treatment, and future perspectives related to COVID-19 infections. The following electronic databases were used searched: MEDLINE, SCIELO, and LILACS. It became clear that COVID-19 infections occur through exposure to the virus, and both the immunosuppressed and healthy population appear susceptible. The clinical course of COVID-19 is still not clear, although the SARS-CoV-2 infection seems to develop with mild, influenza-like symptoms in the vast majority of subjects, i.e., 10%-15% of COVID-19 patients. Since rRT-PCR tests serve as the gold standard method to confirm a SARS-CoV-2 infection, false-negative results could hinder the prevention and control of the epidemic, particularly considering the test plays a key role in the decision for continued isolated medical observation or discharge. Our findings also indicate that a radical increase in the identification and isolation of currently undocumented infections would be needed to fully control SARS-CoV2.

Background: Activities in the aquatic environment can be an interesting alternative of physical exercise for the elderly, due to several properties of water, which can favor the physiological, metabolic, perceptive, and musculoskeletal effects. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of performing two hydrogymnastic class methodologies on the functional capacity and flexibility in elderly women., Methods: Ninety women, aged 55-70 years, were divided into three groups, the control group (CG; N.=30) who did not exercise during the 12 weeks, experimental group 1 (EG1; N.=30), who performed water gymnastics classes with emphasis on lower limb exercises for 12 weeks, and experimental group 2 (EG2; N.=30), who performed conventional hydrogymnastics classes for 12 weeks. The volunteers were evaluated through the 30-second chair stand (30CST), 2-minute step test (2MST), timed up and go (TUG), static balance (SB) and chair sit-and-reach (CSR) tests., Results: In the intragroup comparison, there were significant improvements in the performance of 30CST tests (F=5.5, P=0.022), TUG (F=19.3, P<0.001), SB (F=5.3, P=0.025), and CSR (F=12.0, P=0.001) in EG1 and EG2. For intergroup comparisons, the EG1 presented better results than CG in CST (P<0.05). The EG2, presented better results than CG in CST, TUG, SB and CSR (P<0.05). There were no significant differences for the comparison between EG1 and EG2., Conclusions: It was concluded that 12 weeks of hydrogymnastics practice improved the functional capacity and flexibility of the elderly women evaluated, and no differences were found between the two types of methodologies used.

The work described here aimed to verify the efficiency of different extenders for cryopreservation of equine semen using sperm motility and acrosin activity as spermatic parameters. The semen was fractioned into two equal parts and resuspended in an 11% lactose solution in a 1:1 proportion, where it remained for 20 minutes at room temperature. The semen was centrifuged at 600 g for 10 minutes, and after the second centrifugation, each pellet received the freezing extender (Merck or Zorlesco) and was loaded into 4 mL straws. Each straw was placed in liquid nitrogen vapor steam for 15 minutes and further immersion in liquid nitrogen at -196°C for long-term storage. After thawing, semen samples were initially evaluated for sperm motility, both total and progressive, and acrosin activity. Moreover, semen was incubated at 37°C and further assessed at 60 and 120 minutes in a thermoresistance test (TRT) for sperm motility and acrosin activity. Immediately after thawing, both progressive and total motility, and acrosin activity were lower ( p  < 0.05) in thawed semen than in fresh semen. During the TRT, total sperm motility and acrosin activity after 60 minutes were lower ( p  < 0.05) than those obtained after thawing. Similarly, total sperm motility and acrosin activity were lower ( p  < 0.05) after 120 minutes than at 60 minutes of the TRT. The analysis of motility and acrosin activity allowed the conclusion that both extenders have a similar capacity to preserve the integrity of sperm cells subject to freezing and thawing.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a disease that causes skin exfoliative lesions, characterized by fever, necrosis, and epidermal detachment. Biological skin substitutes may be considered interesting options for the treatment of this disease. This study aims at identifying in the literature the evidence on the current role of these biomaterials in the treatment of SJS and its related diseases. A systematic review with a search period between 2003 and 2017 was carried out, consulting the Lilacs, BVS, and PubMed databases. The quality of the included studies was evaluated by the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Classification, for evaluating levels of evidence from the scientific publications. Ninety-five publications were found, and after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, they resulted in 9 articles. In total, 20 patients with 73.87% average of body surface affected received SJS skin treatment with some biological substitutes, among them are cutaneous allograft, amnion, and xenograft. Mortality rate was 10%, and in these situations, literature indicates mortality rates ranging from 25% to 70%. Effectiveness of the use of biological dressings may be a possible explanation for this finding. Findings indicate the use of these biomaterials may favor reepithelialization, reduce water loss, decrease the chance of infection, and, consequently, improve the survival of patients with SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Biological skin substitutes have characteristics that make them very promising in the topical treatment of these wounds, but their use remains very restricted in the treatment of SJS.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effects of circuit strength training on the muscle strength, functional autonomy and anthropometric indicators of the elderly., Methods: Were included 65 women divided in two groups: strength training (TG, N.=34) and control group (CG, N.=31). The strength-training group was subjected to a circuit shaped training program, three days per week, for a period of 12 weeks. In each training session, the circuit was repeated three times. In each circuit, all exercises were performed once, with 8 to 12 repetitions per exercise, with 30-second intervals between each exercise., Results: TG showed significantly changes in body composition post 12 weeks, as decreases in body weight (Δ-1.5±1.8 kg) and BMI (Δ-0.57±0.74 kg/m²), and decreases in abdominal (Δ-3±1.61 cm), waist (Δ-1 ± 1.61 cm), hip (Δ-2.75±1.44 cm) and waist-hip ratio circumference (Δ-0.02±0.15 cm). For functional autonomy, TG showed increases post 12 weeks by 30-second chair stand (Δ 3.5±0.4 reps), six minute walk (Δ60.95±7.91 m), back scratch (Δ3.2±1.36 cm), and time up and go tests (Δ-1.62±0,15 s). TG also showed increases in muscle strength post 12 weeks in both leg press (Δ11±1.29 kg) and lat pulldown (Δ11±0.75 Kg). For CG, body composition, functional autonomy and muscle strength did not improved in any moment., Conclusions: Hence, circuit strength training provides significant improvements in muscle strength, functional performance and anthropometric indicators in sedentary elderly women.

The autonomic response to emotional stress, while involving several target organs, includes an important increase in sympathetic drive to the heart. There is ample evidence that cardiac sympathetic innervation is lateralized, and asymmetric autonomic output to the heart during stress is postulated to be a causal factor that precipitates cardiac arrhythmias. Recent animal studies provided a new picture of the central pathways involved in the cardiac sympathetic response evoked by emotional stress, pointing out a key role for the region of dorsomedial hypothalamus. However, how much of this information can be extrapolated to humans? Analysis of human functional imaging data at rest or during emotional stress shows some consistency with the components that integrate these pathways, and attention must be given to the asymmetric activation of subcortical sites. In this short review, we will discuss related findings in humans and animals, aiming to understand the neurogenic background for the origin of emotional stress-induced cardiac arrhythmias., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The reproductive performance of postpartum Santa Inês (SI) and Morada Nova (MN) ewes treated with insulin or progesterone hormones in association with ram effect was evaluated. Ewes from SI (n = 69) and MN (n = 69) breeds were randomly allocated to three groups of each breed (T1-ram effect only; T2-ram effect + insulin; T3-ram effect + progesterone). Progesterone concentrations (ηg/ml; mean ± SD) before and after introduction of rams (n = 6) were 0.51 ± 0.22 and 3.78 ± 0.68 (T1), 0.65 ± 0.21 and 3.77 ± 0.78 (T2) and 0.52 ± 0.21 and 3.84 ± 0.84 (T3) in SI ewes and 0.74 ± 0.19 and 3.71 ± 0.56 (T1), 0.70 ± 0.21 and 3.79 ± 0.75 (T2) and 0.81 ± 0.14 and 3.87 ± 0.80 (T3) in MN ewes, respectively. Thus, lower progesterone concentrations were found before the introduction of rams (p < .05). After the introduction of rams, preovulatory peaks of LH (ηg/ml) occurred at 28 (T1), 44 (T2) and 48 (T3) hr in SI ewes and at 64 (T1), 40 (T2) and 44 (T3) hr in MN ewes. The mean number of ovulations was similar between groups (p > .05), was 1.3 ± 0.51 (T1), 1.5 ± 0.54 (T2) and 1.6 ± 0.51 (T3) in SI ewes and 1.3 ± 0.51 (T1), 1.6 ± 0.51 (T2) and 1.6 ± 0.51 (T3) in MN ewes. In conclusion, the ram effect alone is effective at inducing and synchronizing oestrus in sheep under postpartum anoestrus, irrespective of hormone treatments., (© 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Moreira, OC, Faraci, LL, de Matos, DG, Mazini Filho, ML, da Silva, SF, Aidar, FJ, Hickner, RC, and de Oliveira, CEP. Cardiovascular responses to unilateral, bilateral and alternating limb resistance exercise performed using different body segments. J Strength Cond Res 31(3): 644-652, 2017-The aim of this study was to verify and compare the cardiovascular responses to unilateral, bilateral, and alternating limb resistance exercise (RE) performed using different body segments. Fifteen men experienced in RE were studied during biceps curls, barbell rows, and knee extension exercises when performed bilaterally, unilaterally, and using alternating limbs. The protocol consisted of 3 sets of 10 repetitions at 80% of 10 repetition maximum with 2-minute rest between sets. Heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) were measured after the last repetition. There was a statistically significant increase in HR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and rate pressure product (RPP), from rest to postexercise. The RPP was higher in the third set of all exercises and in all 3 forms of execution, when compared with the first set. Bilateral biceps curls caused a greater increase in RPP (first and second sets) and HR, compared with the same exercise performed unilaterally. Furthermore, the performance of bilateral biceps curls induced greater HR and RPP, in all sets, compared with bilateral knee extension and barbell rows. There was also a significantly higher SBP for the alternating second and third sets and also for the bilateral third set of the knee extensions as compared with the barbell rows. It was concluded from the data of this study that the cardiovascular response was increased from rest to postexercise in all forms of exercise, especially immediately after the third set of RE. For exercises performed bilaterally with the upper body (biceps curls), there was a greater cardiovascular response when compared with the same exercise performed unilaterally or with lower-body exercise performed bilaterally.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of eight weeks of practical training on the functional autonomy of the elderly., Methods: The study included 52 elderly women, 65.42±10.31 years, 65.29±11.30 kg body mass, 1.58±0.07 height, 26.30±4.52 body mass index, 86.48±10.96 cm waist circumference. These elderly women received a specific functional training protocol where their functional autonomy was assessed at three specific times (0, 10 and 20 sessions). The evaluation consisted of a set of five tests defined by the Latin-American Development Group for the Elderly (GDLAM) to determine the functional autonomy of the elderly: walk 10 meters (C10m); stand up from a chair and walk straightaway (SUCWA); dress and undress a T-shirt (DUT); stand up from a sitting position (SUSP); stand up from a lying position (SULP). In each test, the time taken to complete the task was measured., Results: There were statistically significant differences in all functional autonomy tests after 20 training sessions: C10m (pre: 8.10±1.27; post: 7.55±1.10); SUCWA (pre: 40.98±2.77; post: 38.44±2.57); DUT (pre: 13.25±0.88; post: 11.85±0.82); SUSP (pre: 10.74±0.52; post: 8.98±056) and SULP (pre: 3.86±0.37; post: 2.82±0.37)., Conclusions: It was determined that 20 functional training sessions were enough to improve the functional autonomy of elderly women. However, we believe that higher volume and intensity of training could be interesting alternatives for even stronger results in future interventions.

Background: Strength training post stroke is widely acknowledged as an important part of a rehabilitation program. Muscle strength has been shown to be a significant contributor to physical disability after stroke, which in turn has an immense impact on the reintegration of patients into society, affecting their quality of life., Objective: This was a randomized intervention trial to determine the effect of a resistance training program on the quality of life in patients with stroke., Methods: An experimental group (EG), consisting of 11 subjects aged 51.7 ± 8.0 years, and a control group (CG), consisting of 13 subjects aged 52.5 ± 7.7 years, were studied before and after 12 weeks. EG underwent 12 weeks of strength training three times a week. The CG did not undergo strength training during the 12-week study period., Results: There was a significant increase in quality of life from pre-test to post-test (Δ% = 21.47%; p = 0.021) in EG. There were significant differences in all indicators of quality of life between groups at 12 weeks. There were greater gains in strength in EG than in CG (p ≤ 0.05). There was a negative correlation between the strength gains as determined with the 1RM test and the quality of life, especially in lower limb exercises., Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that there was an improvement in the measures of strength in EG, and that there was a correlation between improvements in strength and quality of life in these patients who had previously suffered a stroke at least one year prior to study.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of biostimulation and temporary weaning on the follicular dynamics and pregnancy rates in Nelore cows. We used three groups of 75 cows: a control group without biostimulation and suckling calves (WB), a group that was biostimulated and had suckling calves (BE) and a group that was biostimulated and subjected to temporary weaning for 56 h (BETW). Ovarian dynamics were examined using ultrasonography. All groups showed follicular atresia. The interval between beginning of the treatment and wave emergence was 3.25 ± 0.30 days for BE, 3.40 ± 0.27 days for BETW and 3.37 ± 0.50 days for WB. The time between implant removal and ovulation was 64.50 ± 1.88 h for BE, 66.75 ± 1.35 h for BETW and 60.85 ± 3.10 h for WB. Eight cows were submitted to ultrasound analysis, and the percentages of cows that had ovulatory follicles of the new follicular wave with maximum diameters greater than 0.80 cm were 100 % (8/8) in BE (1.28 ± 0.12 cm), 100 % (8/8) in BETW (1.52 ± 0.07 cm) and 87.5 % (7/8) in WB (1.21 ± 0.10 cm). The pregnancy rate was 52 % (39/75) in BE, 69.3 % (52/75) in BETW and 37.3 % (28/75) in WB. The association of biostimulation and temporary weaning increased follicular development, ovulation synchronisation and, consequently, the pregnancy rate in beef cows.

Objective: to evaluate the cases of wound infections in orthopedic postoperative period., Methods: postoperative patients who developed infection during the period from November 2012 to November 2013 were studied. Secretions were collected during surgery using sterile swabs, and sent for microbiological analysis., Results: during the period analyzed, 38 surgical procedures progressed to infection. The type of surgery presenting the largest number of infections was osteosynthesis, in 36 (94.7%) patients. Among the materials used, 18 (36%) surgeries that used external fixator were infected, and 17 (34%) using plate. The species of bacteria that caused the largest number of infections were Staphylococcus aureus, infecting 16 (43.9%) patients, followed by Acinetobacter baumannii, which infected four (10.5%) patients. Regarding the resistance profile of Gram-positive strains to antibiotics, 100% of Staphylococcus aureus strains were susceptible to vancomycin and 31.3%, to ceftriaxone. As for the Gram-negative bacteria, 100% of Acinetobacter baumannii strains were resistant to ceftriaxone, gentamicin and imipenem., Conclusion: infection control in the postoperative period is necessary, using antibiotics correctly and consciously, avoiding resistance of bacterial agents.

Main Conclusion: Multiplicity of protease inhibitors induced by predators may increase the understanding of a plant's intelligent behavior toward environmental challenges. Information about defense mechanisms of non-genomic model plant passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) in response to predator attack is still limited. Here, via biochemical approaches, we showed its flexibility to build-up a broad repertoire of potent Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors (KTIs) in response to methyl jasmonate. Seven inhibitors (20-25 kDa) were purified from exposed leaves by chromatographic techniques. Interestingly, the KTIs possessed truncated Kunitz motif in their N-terminus and some of them also presented non-consensus residues. Gelatin-Native-PAGE established multiple isoforms for each inhibitor. Significant differences regarding inhibitors' activity toward trypsin and chymotrypsin were observed, indicating functional polymorphism. Despite its rarity, two of them also inhibited papain, and such bifunctionality suggests a recruiting process onto another mechanistic class of target protease (cysteine-type). All inhibitors acted strongly on midgut proteases from sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (a lepidopteran insect) while in vivo assays supported their insecticide properties. Moreover, the bifunctional inhibitors displayed activity toward midgut proteases from cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus (a coleopteran insect). Unexpectedly, all inhibitors were highly effective against midgut proteases from Aedes aegypti a dipteran insect (vector of neglected tropical diseases) opening new avenues for plant-derived PIs for vector control-oriented research. Our results reflect the KTIs' complexities in passion fruit which could be wisely exploited by influencing plant defense conditions. Therefore, the potential of passion fruit as source of bioactive compounds with diversified biotechnological application was strengthened.

Background: Fishermen's knowledge is a source of indispensable information in decision-making processes related to efforts to stimulate the management and conservation of fishing resources, especially in developing countries. This study analyzed the knowledge of fishermen from three municipal areas of Bahia in northeast Brazil regarding the behavior repertoire of sharks and the possible influence that these perceptions may have on the inclination to preserve these animals. This is a pioneering study on the ethnobiological aspects of elasmobranchs in Brazil., Methods: Open, semi-structured interviews with shark fishing specialists were conducted between September 2011 and October 2012. The interviews addressed the fishermen's profile, fishing techniques and knowledge about sharks, focusing on the behaviours exhibited by sharks. The data were analysed with quantitative approach and conducted with the use of descriptive statistical techniques., Results: Sixty-five fishermen were interviewed. They descend from the rafting subculture of Brazil's northeast, which has historically been disregarded by public policies addressing the management and conservation of fishing resources. The fishing fleet involved in shark fishing includes rafts, fishing boats and lobster boats equipped with fishing lines, gillnets, longlines and "esperas". The informers classified sharks' behaviour repertoire into 19 ethological categories, related especially to feeding, reproduction, and social and migratory behaviours. Because they identify sharks as predators, the detailed recognition of the behaviours exhibited is crucial both for an efficient catch and to avoid accidents. Therefore, this knowledge is doubly adaptive as it contributes to safer, more lucrative fishing. A feeling of respect for sharks predominates, since informers recognize the ecological role of these animals in marine ecosystems, attributing them the status of leader (or "the man") in the sea., Conclusions: This work demonstrates the complexity and robustness of artisanal fishermen's ichthyological knowledge of sharks. Therefore, we suggest that such knowledge should be considered to develop public policies for the control of the fishing activity, as well as to develop and consolidate the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Shark and Ray Species (PAN - Tubarões e Raias).

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant properties, bioactive compounds and other physico-chemical parameters from black soybean and its derivatives over 30 days under refrigeration at 4 °C and develop a probiotic petit suisse produced from black soybean. The soymilk showed the highest levels of isoflavones (109 mg/100 g), total phenolics (600 mg/100 g) and total anthocyanins (388 mg/100 g) with the highest response in the tests with DPPH• and ABTS+• on a dry basis. There was a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in antioxidant activity during storage due to the hydrolysis of isoflavone glycosides to aglycones in soymilk sample, having a strong linear correlation between the concentration of isoflavone aglycones and the antioxidant activity for ABTS+• (R = 0.9437, 0.9624 and 0.9992) and DPPH• (R = 0.9865, 0.9978 and 0.9911), respectively, for soymilk, quark and petit suisse. The conversion of isoflavone was influenced directly by the characteristics of each sample, inhibiting or promoting the action of the enzyme. The petit suisse developed is an alternative for consumers, providing isoflavones and anthocyanins, possessing probiotic average counts (10⁸ CFU g⁻¹) during storage.

A group of cysteine-proteolytic enzymes from C. candamarcensis latex, designated as P1G10 displays pharmacological properties in animal models following various types of lesions. This enzyme fraction expresses in vitro fibrinolytic effect without need for plasminogen activation. Based on this evidence, we assessed by intravital microscopy the effect of P1G10 on recanalization of microvessels after thrombus induction in the ear of hairless mice. Video playback of intravital microscopic images allowed measurement of blood flow velocity (mm/s) during the experimental procedure. Groups treated with 5 or 7.5mg/Kg P1G10 showed thrombolysis between 7-15min, without vessel obstruction. Ex vivo experiments demonstrated that platelet activation by ADP is impaired in a dose dependent manner following treatment with P1G10. The P1G10 action on plasma coagulation also showed that prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT, μg/uL) are increased in a dose dependent manner. In addition, P1G10 displayed fibrinogenolytic and fibrinolytic activities, both in a dose dependent manner. Each of these effects was suppressed by inhibition of the proteolytic activity of the fraction. The antithrombotic action of P1G10 can be explained by proteolytic cleavage of fibrinogen and fibrin, both key factors during formation of a stable thrombus. These results combined with prior evidence suggest that P1G10 has potential as thrombolytic agent., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: The need for studies that describe the resistance patterns in populations of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) in function of their region of origin justified this research, which aimed to characterize the resistance to temephos and to obtain information on esterase activity in populations of Aedes aegypti collected in municipalities of the State of Paraíba., Methods: Resistance to temephos was evaluated and characterized from the diagnostic dose of 0.352mg i.a./L and multiple concentrations that caused mortalities between 5% and 99%. Electrophoresis of isoenzymes was used to verify the patterns of esterase activity among populations of the vector., Results: All populations of Aedes aegypti were resistant to temephos, presenting a resistance rate (RR) greater than 20. The greatest lethal dose 50% of the sample (CL50) was found for the municipality of Lagoa Seca, approximately forty-one times the value of CL50 for the Rockefeller population. The populations characterized as resistant showed two to six regions of α and β-esterase, called EST-1 to EST-6, while the susceptible population was only seen in one region of activity., Conclusions: Aedes aegypti is widely distributed and shows a high degree of resistance to temephos in all municipalities studied. In all cases, esterases are involved in the metabolism and, consequently, in the resistance to temephos.

Background & Aims: To determine the relevance of waist circumference (WC) measurement and monitoring in children and adolescents as an early indicator of overweight, metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiovascular problems in young adults in comparison with visceral and subcutaneous adiposity., Methods: A cohort study with 159 subjects (51.6% female) started in 1999 with an average age of 13.2 years. In 1999, 2006 and 2008 weight, height, and WC were evaluated. In 2006 blood samples for laboratory diagnosis of MS were added. In 2008 abdominal computed tomography (ACT) to quantify the fat deposits were also added., Results: The WC measured in children and adolescents was strongly correlated with body mass index (BMI) measured simultaneously. A strong correlation was established between WC in 1999 with measures of WC and BMI as young adults. WC strongly correlated with fat deposits in ACT. The WC in 1999 expressed more subcutaneous fat (SAT), while the WC when young adults expressed strong correlation with both visceral fat (VAT) and SAT. The correlation of WC with fat deposits was stronger in females. WC and not BMI in 1999 was significantly higher in the group that evolved to MS., Conclusions: The WC in children and adolescents was useful in screening patients for MS. WC expressed the accumulation of abdominal fat; especially subcutaneous fat., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.)

The aim of this pilot study was to analyze the effect of a strength training program on indicators of trait and state anxiety in patients with ischemic stroke. The subjects were divided into two groups: experimental group (EG) consisting of 11 subjects aged 51.7 ± 8.0 years and a control group (CG) with 13 subjects aged 52.5 ± 7.7 years. EG underwent 12 weeks of strength training, with a frequency of three times a week. For data collection, a State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was used. Significant differences were found between pre- and posttest in EG for trait anxiety (43.2 ± 12.5 pretest 39.9 ± 7.3 posttest) and state anxiety (46.9 ± 7.6 pretest 44.9 ± 7.7 posttest) with no differences in CG for trait anxiety (42.9 ± 12.2 pretest 42.6 ± 12.1 posttest) and state anxiety (47.4 ± 8.1 pretest 47.5 ± 8.0 posttest). In the evaluation between the groups, significant differences were found for all indicators of trait anxiety (39.9 ± 7.3 EG; 42.6 ± 12.1 CG) and state anxiety (44.9 ± 7.7 EG; 47.5 ± 8.0 CG). This pilot study indicates that strength training may provide an improvement in trait and state anxiety more than one year after stroke.

Objective: To evaluate the intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility of Hawkins' classification for fractures of the neck of the talus., Methods: 20 random cases of fracture of the talus were selected, to be defined according to the classification of types by eight orthopedic surgeons, 13 orthopedic residents and 15 radiology residents., Results: Using the statistical test of Landis and Koch, measurements of 0.627 and 0.668 were obtained in the first and second evaluations, respectively. These values define a satisfactory agreement for Hawkins' classification., Conclusion: We conclude that this classification is reproducible between observers, with better values for the more experienced observers. Level of Evidence I, Study Diagnostic - Investigating a diagnostic test.

Recent publications renewed interest in assessing potential health risks for subjects living close to transmission lines. This study aimed at evaluating the association of both distance of home address to the nearest overhead transmission line and of the calculated magnetic fields from the power lines and mortality from leukemia, brain cancer, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We carried out a death certificate based case-control study accessing adult mortality in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo, in Brazil. Analysis included 1,857 cases of leukemia, 2,357 of brain cancer, 367 of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and 4,706 as controls. An increased risk for mortality from leukemia among adults living at closer distances to transmission lines compared to those living further then 400 m was found. Risk was higher for subjects that lived within 50 m from power lines (OR=1.47; 95% CI=0.99-2.18). Similarly, a small increase in leukemia mortality was observed among adults living in houses with higher calculated magnetic fields (OR=1.61; 95% CI=0.91-2.86 for those exposed to magnetic fields >0.3 µT). No increase was seen for brain tumours or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Our findings are suggestive of a higher risk for leukemia among subjects living closer to transmission lines, and for those living at homes with higher calculated magnetic fields, although the risk was limited to lower voltage lines.

To study whether treatment with the beta-blocker atenolol (AT) attenuates intestinal dysfunction caused by ischemia (I) and reperfusion (R), rabbits were treated with AT (1 mg.kg(-1), introvenously) or saline solution (SS) prior to I (60 minutes), which was produced by occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery, and/or R (120 minutes). After I or I/R, 2-cm jejunal segments were mounted in an organ bath to study neurogenic contractions stimulated by electrical pulses or KCl using a digital recording system. Thin jejunal slices were stained hematoxylin and eosin for analysis by optical microscopy. Compared to the sham group, the jejunal contractions were similar in the I + AT and the I/R + AT groups, but reduced in the I + SS and the I/R + SS groups. The jejunal enteric nerves were damaged in the I + SS and the I/R + SS groups, but not in the I + AT and the I/R + AT. These results suggest that AT may attenuate intestinal dysfunction caused by I and I/R., (Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The anthelmintic activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Morinda citrifolia fruit (noni) was evaluated in chicken naturally infected by Ascaridia galli. The anthelmintic activity in vitro was determined in adult parasites. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts were used in the following concentrations: 1.69; 3.37; 6.74; 13.48 e 26.96 mg.mL(-1) and 4.17; 8.34; 16.68; 33.36 and 66.72 mg.mL(-1), respectively. The anthelmintic activity in vivo was determined by the administration of 10 mL.kg(-1) of the aqueous (50.1 mg.mL(-1)) and ethanolic (24.6 mg.mL(-1)) extracts during three consecutive days. Later the chickens were euthanized and necropsy was performed in order to count the remaining helminths. The data were analyzed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test. In the concentrations of 13.48 and 26.96 mg.mL(-1), the aqueous extract demonstrated mortality of 46.67 and 50%, respectively, there was a significative difference from the negative control (P < 0.05). The ethanolic extract presented statistical difference from the negative control (diluent) (P < 0.05) for the concentrations of 33.36 and 66.72 mg.mL(-1), expressed by a mortality rate of 66.67 and 76.67%, respectively. In the in vivo test, the aqueous extract of noni fruit showed 27.08% of elimination, deferring statistically from the control group. There was no statistical difference between the ethanolic extract treatments and the control (P > 0.05). It follows that the anthelmintic activity of noni fruit test showed satisfactory results in vitro, there is a need for studies in higher concentrations in the in vivo test.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of interictal compared to ictal SPECT in the lateralization of the epileptogenic focus in refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients that present with normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or bilateral mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS). Thirty patients with TLE, for whom MRI examinations were normal or who presented with bilateral MTS, were retrospectively studied. Using a confidence interval of 95% and a level of significance for p-value <0.05, an estimated agreement rate of 73% with a minimum agreement rate of 57% was calculated comparing interictal and ictal SPECTs. In conclusion the interictal SPECT is only useful when associated with the ictal SPECT and does not substitute it in the localization of epileptogenic areas in patients with normal MRI or bilateral MTS.

This work aims at identifying an effective protocol to raise anti-Leishmania chagasi amastigote antibodies in different animal species. Protocols of immunization by subcutaneous injections of L. chagasi promastigote and amastigote lysates or by either intravenous or subcutaneous inoculation of live metacyclic promastigotes were assessed in mice, rabbits, and dogs. The immunization with live promastigotes produced a strong humoral immune response against L. chagasi amastigotes in all three animal species. The sera from animals immunized with the promastigote lysate did not react with amastigotes and, conversely, the sera from mice immunized with the amastigote lysate did not react with promastigotes. Taken all data together, the immunization through infection with metacyclic promastigotes was considered the most satisfactory way to immunize animals for obtaining anti-amastigote and anti-promastigote antibodies, since it did not only allowed the obtention of antibody against the two forms of the parasite, but it is also cheap, less laborious than carrying out the purification of amastigotes from infected tissues and avoid the use of a large number of hamsters for obtention the amastigotes, necessary to produce the immunogenic lysates. Furthermore, this immunization protocol was comparable to the amastigote lysate immunization protocol for the obtaining of mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)., (Copyright 2004 Elsevier B.V.)

Objective: The vasoplegic syndrome (VS) has been implicated in life-threatening complications after open heart surgery, where the whole-body inflammatory reaction is attributed to the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) has been recently achieving growing enthusiasm mainly due avoiding the side effects of CPB. However herein the occurrence of VS in OPCAB is reported., Methods: The vasoplegic syndrome usual findings occurring in the early postoperative period include severe hypotension, tachycardia, normal or elevated cardiac output and low systemic vascular resistance. Four patients underwent to OPCAB presented all the signs of VS intraoperatively or within the first 6 postoperative h., Results: The patients needed aggressive vasoactive drug support for hemodynamic stabilization and all of them developed complications. These patients also had tendency to require administration of blood and blood derivatives due to diffuse and oozing type bleeding. Mean intensive care unit stay of surviving patients was 70 h and mean period of postoperative hospitalization was 9 days. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha blood levels in one patient were elevated postoperatively though no signs of infection were observed. One patient died., Conclusions: Although vasoplegic syndrome can complicate OPCAB surgery, the rationale for avoiding CPB remains valid considering the benefits provided by OPCAB., (Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science B.V.)