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The wild cotton, Gossypium turneri, is a rare and endemic species from the state of Sonora, Mexico, threatened by habitat destruction, tourism development, and buffelgrass invasion in the municipality of Guaymas. As a consequence, G. turneri is now classified as endangered under Mexican legislation. This study aimed to document several aspects of the reproductive biology of this wild cotton to suggest conservation plans. The flowers of G. turneri remain open for only 1 day. Throughout the day, the flowers are visited by a diverse group of insects, including bees and butterflies. Pollination treatments revealed that this species is self‐compatible, capable of autonomous self‐pollination, and showed mixed evidence of pollen limitation. Although the flowers exhibit herkogamy, curved styles were observed that make the stigma come into contact with anthers. These results indicate that autonomous self‐pollination is caused by style curvature. Fruit set values and seed production per fruit in open pollinated control flowers were low, suggesting that this species produces a small number of seeds. These results provide new insights into this rare species, indicating that the species has a mechanism that provides reproductive assurance under low pollinator visitation, allowing for its persistence. The collection of seeds from the remaining populations for germplasm banks and the maintenance of live plants in botanical gardens are proposed for the conservation of this rare species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The underlying risks of asymptomatic embolization during high‐power short‐duration (HPSD) ablation for atrial fibrillation remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate microembolic signals (MESs) during HPSD ablation with power settings of 50 and 90 W in comparison with those during cryoballoon (CB) ablation using a novel carotid ultrasound‐Doppler system that classifies solid and air bubble signals using real‐time monitoring. Methods and Results: Forty‐seven patients underwent HPSD ablation using radiofrequency (RF), and 13 underwent CB ablation. MESs were evaluated using a novel pastable soft ultrasound probe equipped with a carotid ultrasound during pulmonary vein isolation. We compared the detailed MESs and their timing between RF and CB ablations. The number of MESs and solid signals were significantly higher in the RF group than in CB group (209 ± 229 vs. 79 ± 32, p =.047, and 83 ± 89 vs. 28 ± 17, p =.032, respectively). In RF ablation, the number of MESs, solid, and bubble signals per ablation point, or per second, was significantly higher at 90 W than at 50 W ablation. The MESs, solid, and bubble signals were detected more frequently in the bottom and anterior walls of the left pulmonary vein (LPV) ablation. In contrast, many MESs were observed before the first CB application and decreased chronologically as the procedure progressed. Signals were more prevalent during the CB interval rather than during the freezing time. Among the 28 patients, 4 exhibited a high‐intensity area on postbrain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MRI‐positive group showed a trend of larger signal sizes than did the MRI‐negative group. Conclusion: The number of MESs was higher in the HPSD RF group than in the CB group, with this risk being more pronounced in the 90 W ablation group. The primary detection site was the anterior wall of the LPV in RF and the first interval in CB ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of robot-assisted retrograde intrarenal surgery (roboRIRS) for the treatment of urinary stones. The article explains that while flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) is commonly used for stone treatment, it has ergonomic limitations and can be challenging in complicated cases. The introduction of robotics in endourological interventions, such as roboRIRS, aims to improve surgical outcomes, ergonomics, and surgeon health. The article describes the ILY® robotic system, a compact trolley mini-console operated remotely by a wireless controller, which offers potential benefits in terms of ergonomics and reduced radiation exposure. The article presents a case series of six patients who underwent roboRIRS using the ILY robot, demonstrating its feasibility and safety. The authors suggest that further investigations are needed to evaluate the real-life benefits and cost-effectiveness of this technology. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Paracoccidioidomycosis is the most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America, with a high incidence in Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, and constitutes a serious public health problem, a frequent cause of morbidity and disability for work. Some mechanisms of cell death are described as important tools in infectious processes. When apoptosis is blocked, RIPK (Receptor-interacting protein kinase) 3 dependent, a caspase-independent form of cell death, can limit the replication and spread of pathogens. Some molecules that mediate necroptosis include RIPK3 and have been extensively studied due to their signalling mechanism and pathological function. RIPK3 activates NLRP1 and NLRP3-mediated inflammasome formation. Caspase-1 has an important role in processing the cytokines ILß and IL18 to their active form. Such molecules are part of the inflammasome characterization, whose caspase-1-dependent activation promotes the death of pyroptotic cells and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Knowledge about the mechanisms of pathogenmediated cell death can be useful for understanding of the pathogenesis of infections and inflammatory conditions. Objective: The objective of this work was to identify the mechanisms of programmed cell death and inflammasome components in human oral mucosal lesions of paracoccidioidomycosis through immunohistochemical methods and identification of RIPK-3, IL1ß, IL18, NLRP-1 and caspase-1. Thirty specimens were included, and a histopathological analysis of the lesions was performed using haematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: Our results on in situ expression of inflammasome elements and programmed cell death showed increased expression of IL-1ß, NLRP-1, caspase-1 and RIPK-3. We suggest that inflammasome complex participate in the immunopathogenesis in paracoccidioidomycosis oral lesions in an interplay with RIPK3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report a novel digital workflow to replace an anterior maxillary tooth lost due to trauma with an implant multilayer restoration by using the patient's extracted tooth as a final crown restoration using computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Clinical Considerations: Instead of using the patient's natural tooth as an immediate provisional restoration to achieve predictable results in terms of esthetics and soft tissue structure, a novel digital strategy was performed to obtain a natural final crown restoration by using the patient's tooth associated with a lithium disilicate customized implant abutment. Conclusions: The perspective of using this strategic approach for implant restorative dental treatments in patients with traumatic root fractures in the anterior region has great potential as it helps to maintain the emergence profile of the natural dentition and esthetics. Clinical Significance: Optimal esthetic outcomes are challenging in implant dentistry regarding soft tissue structure and morphology factors. Using natural teeth from surgery to deliver the final restoration might be beneficial when an anterior tooth is lost due to trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple forms of malnutrition coexist in Peru, especially in peri‐urban areas and poor households. We investigated the magnitude of, and the contribution of, dietary and socio‐demographic factors to the double burden of malnutrition (DBM) at maternal (i.e., maternal overweight/obesity with anaemia) and dyad (i.e., maternal overweight/obesity with child anaemia) levels. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among low‐income mother–child (6–23 months) dyads (n = 244) from peri‐urban communities in Peru. Dietary clusters and the minimum dietary diversity score (MDD) were generated for mothers and infants, respectively. A composite indicator using the maternal dietary clusters and the MDD was created to relate to dyad level DBM. Two dietary clusters were found: (i) the 'high variety (i.e., animal‐source foods, fruit and vegetables), high sugary foods/beverages' (cluster 1) and (ii) the 'high potato, low fruit and vegetables, low red meat' (cluster 2). DBM prevalence among mothers and dyads was 19.9% and 36.3%, respectively. Logistic regression analyses revealed that the only socio‐demographic factor positively associated with maternal DBM was maternal age (aOR/5 years: 1.35 [1.07, 1.71]). Mothers belonging to diet cluster 1 were less likely to experience the DBM (aOR = 0.52 [0.26, 1.03]), although CIs straddled the null. Socio‐demographic factors positively associated with dyad level DBM included maternal age (aOR/5 years: 1.41 [1.15, 1.73]), and having ≥ two children under 5 years (aOR = 2.44 [1.23, 4.84]). Diet was not associated with dyad‐level DBM. Double‐duty actions that tackle the DBM are needed given that one‐third of dyads and a fifth of mothers had concurrent overweight/obesity and anaemia. Key messages: Using anthropometric data and a biomarker of anaemia (haemoglobin), we found a relatively high prevalence of the double burden of malnutrition (DBM) at maternal and dyad levels in low‐income peri‐urban communities of Peru.There was no socioeconomic patterning in the DBM at maternal or dyad level. This indicates that a whole‐population approach should be adopted.Two maternal dietary clusters were identified; one cluster was considered more nutritious despite the presence of high sugary items in the diet (i.e., the 'high variety [including animal‐source food, fruit and vegetables], high sugary foods and beverages') and one less nutritious (i.e., the 'high potato, low fruit and vegetables, low red meat'). The DBM was less likely in mothers belonging to the more nutritious cluster.Double‐duty actions that prioritise optimum diet quality for all should be implemented to tackle the DBM in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While international trade in agricultural commodities can spur economic development especially where governance is strong, there are also concerns about the local impacts of commodity production and their distribution on the environment and on people. The sustainable development goals (SDGs), though seeing trade as a means to support their achievement, recognise the need to address potential negative social and environmental impacts. It is therefore important to assess the contribution of international trade to the SDGs in commodity production areas. The environmental impacts of commodity production are widely acknowledged, but much less is known about its social impacts, and how this affects poverty reduction objectives across different dimensions. Impacts on human wellbeing and equity depend on a multitude of factors, including resources, systemic conditions and outputs of production. Through a broad literature review on soy, coffee, cocoa and palm oil, we show how studies have addressed different aspects of these factors and their impacts. The paper demonstrates how efforts by actors in global supply chains are related to a large number of SDGs and their targets. We link the social impacts and factors to the SDGs and a list of potential indicators and variables to guide operationalisation of assessments in new empirical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While international trade in agricultural commodities can spur economic development especially where governance is strong, there are also concerns about the local impacts of commodity production and their distribution. Previous frameworks have primarily focused on trade effects on environmental conditions in production regions, as well as economic growth and food security. Instead, we develop a conceptual framework for understanding the impact of agricultural trade on multidimensional wellbeing and equity. The purpose of the framework is to guide the analysis of the impacts of trade on people, by identifying the core concepts and organising the complexity of the local social impacts of global value chains. The framework is supported by evidence from studies on trade in soy, coffee, cocoa, and palm oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 69‐year‐old man presented bradycardia with a constant blocked atrial bigeminy and heart failure. Successful catheter ablation of blocked atrial bigeminy with bradycardia resulted in myocardial reverse remodeling and restoration of the normal sinus rhythm from the ectopic atrial rhythm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrosis is a common pathophysiological response of many tissues and organs subjected to chronic injury. Despite the diverse aetiology of keloid, lacaziosis and localized scleroderma, the process of fibrosis is present in the pathogenesis of all of these three entities beyond other individual clinical and histological distinct characteristics. Fibrosis was studied in 20 samples each of these three chronic cutaneous inflammatory diseases. An immunohistochemical study was carried out to explore the presence of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and vimentin cytoskeleton antigens, CD31, CD34, Ki67, p16; CD105, CD163, CD206 and FOXP3 antigens; and the central fibrotic cytokine TGF‐β. Higher expression of vimentin in comparison to α‐SMA in all three lesion types was found. CD31‐ and CD34‐positive blood vessel endothelial cells were observed throughout the reticular dermis. Ki67 expression was low and almost absent in scleroderma. p16‐positive levels were higher than ki67 and observed in reticular dermis of keloidal collagen in keloids, in collagen bundles in scleroderma and in the external layers of the granulomas in lacaziosis. The presence of α‐actin positive cells and rarely CD34 positive cells, observed primarily in keloids, may be related to higher p16 antigen expression, a measure of cell senescence. Low FOXP3 expression was observed in all lesion types. CD105‐positive cells were mainly found in perivascular tissue in close contact with the adventitia in keloids and scleroderma, while, in lacaziosis, these cells were chiefly observed in conjunction with collagen deposition in the external granuloma layer. We did not find high involvement of CD163 or CD206‐positive cells in the fibrotic process. TGF‐β was notable only in keloid and lacaziosis lesions. In conclusion, we have suggested vimentin to be the main myofibroblast general marker of the fibrotic process in all three studied diseases, while endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and M2 macrophages may not play an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID‐19 pandemic may impact diet and nutrition through increased household food insecurity, lack of access to health services, and poorer quality diets. The primary aim of this study is to assess the impact of the pandemic on dietary outcomes of mothers and their infants and young children (IYC) in low‐income urban areas of Peru. We conducted a panel study, with one survey prepandemic (n = 244) and one survey 9 months after the onset of COVID‐19 (n = 254). We assessed breastfeeding and complementary feeding indicators and maternal dietary diversity in both surveys. During COVID‐19, we assessed household food insecurity experience and economic impacts of the pandemic on livelihoods; receipt of financial or food assistance, and uptake of health services. Almost all respondents (98.0%) reported adverse economic impacts due to the pandemic and 46.9% of households were at risk of moderate or severe household food insecurity. The proportion of households receiving government food assistance nearly doubled between the two surveys (36.5%–59.5%). Dietary indicators, however, did not worsen in mothers or IYC. Positive changes included an increase in exclusive breastfeeding <6 months (24.2%–39.0%, p < 0.008) and a decrease in sweet food consumption by IYC (33.1%–18.1%, p = 0.001) and mothers (34.0%–14.6%, p < 0.001). The prevalence of sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption remained high in both mothers (97%) and IYC (78%). In sum, we found dietary indicators had not significantly worsened 9 months into the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, several indicators remain suboptimal and should be targeted in future interventions. Key messages: Almost all respondents (98.0%) reported negative economic impacts on their households from the pandemic.During the pandemic, almost half of households (46.9%) were at risk of moderate or severe household food insecurity.During the pandemic, 66.9% of households received cash transfers, and 59.4% received food assistance from the government.Nine months into the pandemic, positive changes included an increased prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding <6 months, a decreased proportion of mothers and infants and young children (IYC) consuming sweet foods, and stable dietary indicators for IYC and women.Consumption of sugar‐sweetened beverages and unhealthy foods remained high across the two time periods for mothers and IYC and should be targeted in future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With regard to short‐term outcome in atrial fibrillation (AF), the benefit of cryoballoon ablation (CBA) by pressing a balloon against the earliest pulmonary vein (PV) potential site during PV isolation (earliest potential [EP]‐guided CBA) has been previously demonstrated. The present study aimed to evaluate the long‐term outcome of the EP‐guided CBA. Methods and Results: This study included 136 patients from two randomized studies, who underwent CBA for paroxysmal AF for the first time. Patients were randomly assigned to the EP‐guided and conventional CBA groups in each study. In the EP‐guided CBA group, we pressed a balloon against the EP site when the time‐to‐isolation (TTI) after cryoapplication exceeded 60 and 45 s in the first and second studies, respectively. We compared the clinical outcomes for 1 year after the procedure between the EP‐guided CBA group (68 patients) and the conventional CBA group (68 patients). The primary endpoint was the recurrence of atrial arrhythmia after ablation. No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups. Compared with the conventional CBA group, the EP‐guided CBA group had a significantly higher success rate at TTI ≤ 90 s (98.5% vs. 90.0%, p <.001); lower touch‐up rate and total cryoapplication; and shorter procedure time, and fluoroscopy time. The recurrence at 1 year after ablation was significantly lower in the EP‐guided CBA group than in the conventional CBA group (6.0% vs. 19.4%; p =.019). Conclusions: The EP‐guided CBA approach can facilitate the ablation procedure and achieve low recurrence at 1 year after ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The "starry sky" (SK) liver is ultrasonographic pattern characterized by multiple hyperechogenic foci in hepatic parenchyma. The study aimed to characterize the microscopic hepatic lesions in captive owl monkeys with SK liver. Methods: Thirty‐seven clinically healthy owl monkeys had their liver scanned and 18 of them had liver biopsy. Animals with SK and peliosis hepatis (PH) were subjected to immunohistochemical and molecular screening for Bartonella spp. Results: SK liver occurred in 59.4% (22/37) of the owl monkeys. Biopsied animals showed steatosis, hydropic degeneration, hemosiderosis, PH, and multifocal granulomatous hepatitis. Two monkeys had SK, granulomatous hepatitis, and PH which were negative for Bartonella spp. Conclusions: PH and granulomatous hepatitis associated with hepatocellular degenerative lesions may present as hyperechoic nodular liver lesions consisted of SK liver; therefore, concomitant occurrence of two lesions or more contributed to the hepatic SK pattern among owl monkeys and such cases might be clinically monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimal complementary feeding practices including consumption of multiple micronutrient powders (MNP) are recommended to improve micronutrient intake by infants and young children (IYC) 6–23 months. Formative research was used to design the behaviour change strategy to improve IYC micronutrient intake for the multicountry ENRICH project in rural impoverished areas of Tanzania, Kenya, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Employing a qualitative approach with multiple methods and guided by a social ecological framework, the study was conducted in several phases: data collection in the community, household and health facilities, initial analysis and household trials (HHT). Results found limited use of animal source foods (ASF) for feeding IYC and MNP largely unavailable. Although cost constrained access to ASF, potential more affordable context‐specific ASF options were identified in each setting. Caregivers associated ASF with many positive attributes for IYC, but barriers to feeding them included lack of caregiver time and knowledge of specific preparation techniques, and limited advice from health workers. Feeding practices were identified that used time‐efficient, specific preparations for eggs and other ASF, and demonstrated good initial acceptability and feasibility during HHT. Testing MNP in HHT found good initial feasibility and acceptability and provided an understanding of the facilitators and constraints for preparing, feeding and promoting MNP. In conclusion, formative research led to the design of context‐specific ASF and MNP complementary feeding promotion strategies to improve IYC consumption of micronutrients by identifying the practices, benefits, motivations and alternative actions to overcome the barriers in each setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A first‐line cryoablation for para‐Hisian VAs using a strict cryomapping protocol is useful and safe, even if the His bundle potential is recorded on the ablation catheter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cluster randomized trial design was used to test the efficacy of a behaviour change communication intervention on the quality of the home environment and infant development at 15 months of age. Children (n = 600) in rural South India were followed from 3 through 15 months of age. The control group (C group) received the standard of care, the complementary feeding group (CF group) received recommendations on complementary foods and the responsive complementary feeding and play group (RCF&P group) received recommendations on complementary foods plus skills on responsive feeding and play. The intervention was delivered in biweekly home visits to caregivers using flip charts. At postintervention, infants (n = 521) were assessed for development (Bayley‐II scales) and their home environment was assessed (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment [HOME] scale). Cluster adjusted analysis of variance showed no significant differences at baseline. The HOME score at 15 months differed by group, F(2, 38) = 6.41, P = 0.004; the CF and RCF&P groups had higher scores than the C group. Scores on subscales 'Opportunities for Variety in Daily Stimulation' and 'Caregiver Promotion of Child Development' (CPCD) were higher for the RCF&P group than for the C and CF groups. Mental development index (MDI) scores differed by group, F(2, 37) = 3.31, P = 0.04, with the RCF&P group showing higher scores than the C group (P < 0.04); no differences were noted in psychomotor development index (PDI) scores (P = 0.48). The subscales of HOME associated with MDI at 15 months were 'CPCD' and 'Cleanliness of Child' (R2 = 0.076). 'CPCD' was also associated with PDI (R2 = 0.039). A responsive complementary feeding and play intervention delivered through home visits benefitted children's mental development and caregiving environment at 15 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we focus on the molecular mechanisms associated with the A57G (Ala57‐to‐Gly57) mutation in myosin essential light chains (ELCs), found to cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in humans and in mice. Specifically, we studied the effects of A57G on the super‐relaxed (SRX) state of myosin that may contribute to the hypercontractile cross‐bridge behavior and ultimately lead to pathological cardiac remodeling in transgenic Tg‐A57G mice. The disease model was compared to Tg‐WT mice, expressing the wild‐type human ventricular ELC, and analyzed against Tg‐Δ43 mice, expressing the N‐terminally truncated ELC, whose hearts hypertrophy with time but do not show any abnormalities in cardiac morphology or function. Our data suggest a new role for the N terminus of cardiac ELC (N‐ELC) in modulation of myosin cross‐bridge function in the healthy as well as in HCM myocardium. The lack of N‐ELC in Tg‐Δ43 mice was found to significantly stabilize the SRX state of myosin and increase the number of myosin heads occupying a low‐energy state. In agreement, Δ43 hearts showed significantly decreased ATP utilization and low actin‐activated myosin ATPase compared with A57G and WT hearts. The hypercontractile activity of A57G‐ELC cross‐bridges was manifested by the inhibition of the SRX state, increased number of myosin heads available for interaction with actin, and higher ATPase activity. Fiber mechanics studies, echocardiography examination, and assessment of fibrosis confirmed the development of two distinct forms of cardiac remodeling in these two ELC mouse models, with pathological cardiac hypertrophy in Tg‐A57G, and near physiologic cardiac growth in Tg‐Δ43 animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firms have increasingly adopted environmental governance mechanisms in the form of environmental compensation and environmental board committees. The current study examines the argument that such environmental governance mechanisms contribute to lower toxic emissions in high‐polluting industries. The sample comprises firms that were part of the S&P 500 from the years 2006 to 2011 and were mandated to report toxic emissions to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Toxic Release Inventory program. A panel regression model with propensity score matching was employed to minimize endogeneity bias. The results indicate that environmental compensation is a compelling incentive to motivate managers to invest in long‐term and highly uncertain environmental projects. Likewise, the presence of an environmental board committee appears to be significant, suggesting that directors contribute to a firm's strategy with their expertise and political influence. This research also found evidence supporting the cumulative adoption of both environmental governance mechanisms in enhancing environmental performance and the firm's legitimacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: According to global recommendations, quality diets for complementary feeding (CF) should include a diversity of foods including vitamin A‐rich fruits and vegetables and sources of high‐quality proteins and essential nutrients, particularly animal‐source foods (ASF). A key barrier to feeding ASF surrounds beliefs that the preparation of foods of a thicker consistency may cause problems of digestion, “heaviness” or stomach problems, swallowing, and choking. The objective of this study was to explore, through systematic formative research, the acceptability, use, and feasibility of a simple technology, commercial infant food grinders, in two rural Peruvian settings where there is delayed and low consumption of complementary foods of a thick consistency, including ASF. Phase I explored the barriers, constraints, and opportunities related to the provision of foods of a thicker consistency with a focus on ASF. Phase II encompassed household behavioural trials with mothers and infants to assess the acceptability and use of the grinders in the home setting, using key concepts and messages developed from the information obtained during Phase I. The technology was highly acceptable, used by the majority of mothers (87.8%), and led to changes in cultural perceptions, facilitating increased feeding of appropriate textures (thick purees), ASF, and multimicronutrient powders. Energy, protein, and micronutrient intakes were all significantly greater after the household behavioural trials. This simple technology, paired with systematic formative research to appropriately promote its use across cultures, may have a significant effect on improving CF practices globally, particularly for young infants beginning CF at 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red algae of the genus Laurencia J. V. Lamouroux are found in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world and are an extremely rich source of active secondary metabolites with diverse structural features. In the present study, 6 sesquiterpenes (obtusol, (-)-elatol, dendoidiol, debrome-elatol, triquinane, and obtusane) isolated from Laurencia dendroidea were investigated for their cytotoxicity, using 4 cancer cell lines (U937, Jurkat, B16F10, and Colo-205). Among all sesquiterpenes tested, obtusol and (-)-elatol showed a promising activity in the treatment of Colo-205 strain, with IC50 of 1.2 ± 1.4 and 2.5 ± 1.3 μg/ml, respectively. In addition, fluorescence microscopy results indicated that, at 100 μg/ml, obtusol induced apoptosis at 79% and (-)-elatol at 95%. Activation of Caspases 2, 4, 6, and 8 showed to be involved in (-)-elatol activity and only Caspase 6 in obtusol activity. These data demonstrated the effective apoptosis-inducing activity of the sesquiterpene (-)-elatol and obtusol in the treatment of Colo-205 strain. Therefore, more studies should be done so that the sesquiterpenes (-)-elatol and obtusol might become promising chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The central nervous system controls the innate immunity by modulating efferent neuronal networks. Recently, we have reported that central brain stimulation inhibits inflammatory responses. In the present study, we investigate whether spinal p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) affects joint inflammation in experimental arthritis. Firstly, we observed that intra‐articular administration of zymosan in mice induces the phosphorylation of the spinal cord p38 MAPK. In addition, we demonstrated that spinal p38 MAPK inhibition with intrathecal injection of SB203580, a conventional and well‐characterized inhibitor, prevents knee joint neutrophil recruitment, edema formation, experimental score and cytokine production. This local anti‐inflammatory effect was completely abolished with chemical sympathectomy (guanethidine) and beta‐adrenergic receptors blockade (nadolol). In conclusion, our results suggest that pharmacological strategies involving the modulation of spinal p38 MAPK circuit can prevent joint inflammation via sympathetic networks and beta‐adrenoceptors activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manure applications to soil usually increase soil microbial properties, but their vertical distribution is rarely evaluated. Soil phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) biomarkers and β-glucosidase activity were measured down to the 120- cm depth in a trial that had received annual manure or N fertilizer applications for 37 or 20 yr, respectively. The manure application rates were 0, 60, 120, and 180 Mg ha–1, representing 0x, 1x, 2x, and 3x the recommended rates. The effect of N fertilizer at 100 kg N ha–1 was compared with that of manure at 60 Mg ha–1. Total PLFAs at 60 Mg ha–1 manure rate were 3.2´ those of the control, and β-glucosidase activity 1.9´ to 2.4´, but fertilizer N had no effects on soil microbial PLFAs or enzyme activity. These manure effects occurred mostly in the 0- to 15-cm soil depth, with smaller effects in the 15- to 30-cm depth. Increasing manure rate to 180 Mg ha–1 also increased total PLFAs linearly, but quadratic increases were observed for β-glucosidase activity. The vertical distribution of the responses at 120 Mg ha–1 was similar to that at 60 Mg ha–1; however the 180 Mg ha–1 rate shifted some responses down to the 30- to 60-cm soil depth. These PLFA contents and enzyme activities were positively correlated with soil organic C, total N, and available P. Therefore, manure improved the biological quality of mostly the top 15 cm of soil, but down to 30 or 60 cm for the high manure rates, by increasing microbial biomass and activity, but N fertilizer had no effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formative research is critical for developing effective nutrition-specific interventions to improve infant and young child (IYC) feeding practices and promote healthy growth. Health workers interact with caregivers during health facility visits, yet there is limited research about how to optimize delivery of such interventions during these visits. The extensive reach of IYC health services globally calls for research to address this gap. In Trujillo, Peru, formative research was conducted to explore complementary feeding practices with caregivers as well as health worker routines and interactions with caregivers related to feeding and healthy growth; results informed the development and delivery of an educational intervention. Multiple qualitative methods were used to collect data on a purposive sample of health workers and caregivers from three health facilities and communities: household trials followed. Complementary feeding messages with doable behaviours were developed, and three were selected as key to promote based on their nutritional impact and cultural acceptability. In the health facilities, medical consultation, well-child visits and nutrition consultation all dealt with aspects of IYC nutrition/growth during their interactions with caregivers but were independent and inconsistent in approach. A nutrition education strategy was developed based on consistency, quality and coverage in the IYC health services. We conclude that formative research undertaken in the community and IYC health services was critical to developing a successful and culturally relevant intervention to promote optimal complementary feeding practices and healthy growth during interactions between health workers and caregivers at routine health facility visits. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As maize was domesticated in Mexico around 9,000 years ago, local farmers have selected and maintained seed stocks with particular traits and adapted to local conditions. In the present day, many of these landraces are still cultivated; however, increased urbanization and migration from rural areas implies a risk that this invaluable maize germplasm may be lost. In order to implement an efficient mechanism of conservation in situ, the diversity of these landrace populations must be estimated. Development of a method to select the minimum number of samples that would include the maximum number of alleles and identify germplasm harboring rare combinations of particular alleles will also safeguard the efficient ex-situ conservation of this germplasm. To reach this goal, a strategy based on SSR analysis and a novel algorithm to define a minimum collection and rare genotypes using landrace populations from Puebla State, Mexico, was developed as a 'proof of concept' for methodology that could be extended to all maize landrace populations in Mexico and eventually to other native crops. The SSR-based strategy using bulked DNA samples allows rapid processing of large numbers of samples and can be set up in most laboratories equipped for basic molecular biology. Therefore, continuous monitoring of landrace populations locally could easily be carried out. This methodology can now be applied to support incentives for small farmers for the in situ conservation of these traditional cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway ( CAP) is a complex neuroimmune mechanism triggered by the central nervous system to regulate peripheral inflammatory responses. Understanding the role of CAP in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) could help develop new therapeutic strategies for this disease. Therefore, we investigated the participation of this neuroimmune pathway on the progression of experimental arthritis. Using antigen-induced arthritis ( AIA) model, we investigated in mice the effects of vagotomy or the pharmacological treatments with hexamethonium (peripheral nicotinic receptor antagonist), methylatropine (peripheral muscarinic receptor antagonist) or neostigmine (peripheral acetylcholinesterase inhibitor) on AIA progression. Unilateral cervical vagotomy was performed 1 week before the immunization protocol with methylated bovine serum albumin (m BSA), while drug administration was conducted during the period of immunization. On day 21, 6 hr after the challenge with m BSA injection in the femur-tibial joint, the local neutrophil migration and articular mechanical hyperalgesia were assessed. Herein, we observed that vagotomy or blockade of peripheral nicotinic (but not muscarinic) receptors exacerbated the clinical parameters of this disease. Moreover, peripheral acetylcholinesterase inhibition by neostigmine treatment promoted a reduction of neutrophil recruitment in the knee joint and articular hyperalgesia. Our results demonstrated that peripheral activation of CAP modulates experimental arthritis, providing a pre-clinical evidence of a potential therapeutic strategy for RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruit of the chiltepin [Capsicum annuum L. var. glabriusculum (Dunal) Heiser and Pickersgill] is considered an important genetic resource for pepper crop improvement. The chiltepin is distributed from Colombia, Central America, and Mexico to the southwestern United States. The present review provides a synopsis of the taxonomic classification of the genus Capsicum and the chiltepin and studies were conducted to explore the current genetic diversity of this resource and the urgent necessity for conservation programs. Additionally, brief information regarding the recent sequencing of the chiltepin genome is provided, which contributes important data that could assist in its genetic improvement and conservation. Furthermore, this review discusses the phytochemical compounds of the chiltepin. The revised information shows that the chiltepin is an important genetic resource for pepper crop improvement and a primary source of phytochemical compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron deficiency causes anaemia and other adverse effects on the nutritional status and development of millions of children. Multi‐micronutrient powders (MNP) have been shown to reduce anaemia in young children. In Peru, 50% of children 6–36 months are anaemic. Since 2009, the government has started distributing MNP. This qualitative study explored the acceptability of MNP by caregivers and the role of health personnel (HP) in three regions (Apurimac, Ayacucho and Cajamarca), piloting the MNP programme between 2009 and 2011. Data collection consisted of interviews (35) and observations (13) with caregivers and HP (11). In Cajamarca, 16 families were visited three times in their homes to understand caregivers' use and difficulties. Results showed the critical role HP has in influencing caregiver understanding and use of the MNP, as well as the need for training to avoid confusing messages and provide counselling techniques that consider cultural sensitivity to optimize HP interactions with caregivers and adapt the recommendations for MNP use to local family feeding routines. There was greater acceptance of MNP by caregivers giving semi‐solid foods (e.g. purees) to their children than those who served dilute preparations (e.g. soups). Acceptance was similar across regions, but there were some differences between urban and rural settings. Home visits were shown to be a key in improving the use of MNP by caregivers as misunderstandings on preparation, required consistency and optimum practices were common. These findings can contribute to strategies to enhance acceptability and use. Key messages: Acceptance and use of multi‐micronutrient powders (MNP) by caregivers greatly depend upon how it is presented, promoted and counselled by health personnel.Counselling for MNP use needs to consider and adapt to the local cultural context and incorporate family and child feeding routines.MNP are presented as part of appropriate feeding practices, encouraging caregivers to find simple and acceptable ways of giving semi‐solid or solid foods with which to mix it. © 2015 Blackwell Publishing Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective logging in Brazil allows for the removal of up to 90% of trees above 50 cm diameter of a given timber species, independent of a species' life history characteristics or how quickly it will recover. The genetic and demographic effects of selective logging on two Amazonian timber species ( Dipteryx odorata Leguminosae, Jacaranda copaia Bignoniaceae) with contrasting ecological and reproductive characteristics were assessed in the same forest. Genetic diversity and gene flow were characterized by genotyping adults and seed sampled before and after logging, using hypervariable microsatellite markers. Overall, there were no short-term genetic impacts on the J. copaia population , with commercial application of current Brazilian forest management regulations. In contrast, for D. Odorata, selective logging showed a range of genetic impacts, with a 10% loss of alleles, and reductions in siring by pollen from trees within the 546-ha study area (23-11%) and in the number of pollen donors per progeny array (2.8-1.6), illustrating the importance of the surrounding landscape. Asynchrony in flowering between D. odorata trees led to trees with no breeding partners, which could limit the species reproduction and regeneration under current regulations. The results are summarized with other published studies from the same site and the implications for forest management discussed. The different types and levels of impacts associated with each species support the idea that ecological and genetic information by species, ecological guild or reproductive group is essential in helping to derive sustainable logging guidelines for tropical forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While attention on logging in the tropics has been increasing, studies on the long-term effects of silviculture on forest dynamics and ecology remain scare and spatially limited. Indeed, most of our knowledge on tropical forests arises from studies carried out in undisturbed tropical forests. This bias is problematic given that logged and disturbed tropical forests are now covering a larger area than the so-called primary forests. A new network of permanent sample plots in logged forests, the Tropical managed Forests Observatory (Tm FO), aims to fill this gap by providing unprecedented opportunities to examine long-term data on the resilience of logged tropical forests at regional and global scales. Tm FO currently includes 24 experimental sites distributed across three tropical regions, with a total of 490 permanent plots and 921 ha of forest inventories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of reduced-impact logging ( RIL) on the regeneration of commercial tree species were investigated, as long-term timber yields depend partly on the availability of seedlings in a managed forest. On four occasions during a 20-month period in the Tapajós National Forest (Eastern Amazon, Brazil), seven commercial tree species were assessed as follows: the long-lived pioneers Bagassa guianensis and Jacaranda copaia; the partially shade-tolerant Hymenaea courbaril, Dipteryx odorata, and Carapa guianensis; and the totally shade-tolerant Symphonia globulifera and Manilkara huberi. In 2439 10 × 10 m plots, all individuals < 20 cm diameter at breast height (dbh) were assessed over three intervals, before, during, and after the forest being logged. Before logging, the density of seedlings and saplings of the seven species did not change. Logged trees were spatially aggregated, with 9.2 percent of the plots being heavily impacted by logging. After logging, the recruitment rate increased more than the mortality rate, so that post-harvesting densities of seedlings and saplings increased. The increase in density was concentrated in logged plots with more disturbances. It is concluded that post-harvesting heterogeneity of micro-environments created by RIL may be an important component to be taken into account for sustainable forest management and conservation of commercial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional and developmental insults in the first few years of life have profound public health implications, including substantial contributions to neonatal, infant, and early childhood morbidity and mortality, as well as longer term effects on cognitive development, school achievement, and worker productivity. Optimal development that can lead to the attainment of an individual's fullest potential, therefore, requires a combination of genetic capacity, adequate nutrition, psychosocial stimulation, and safe, clean physical environments. Researchers and policymakers have called for integrated child nutrition and development interventions for more than 20 years, yet there are only a handful of efficacy trials and even fewer examples of integrated interventions that have been taken to scale. While a critical component in the design of such interventions is formative research, there is a dearth of information in both the literature and policy arenas to guide this phase of the process. To move the field forward, this paper first provides an overview of formative research methods with a focus on qualitative inquiry, a description of the critical domains to be assessed (infant and young child feeding, responsive feeding, and child development), and currently available resources. Application of these methods is provided through a real-world case study-the design of an integrated nutrition and child development efficacy trial in Andhra Pradesh, India. Recommendations for next steps are discussed, the most important of which is the need for a comprehensive set of formative guidelines for designing locally tailored, culturally appropriate, integrated interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suboptimal complementary feeding practices contribute to a rapid increase in the prevalence of stunting in young children from age 6 months. The design of effective programmes to improve infant and young child feeding requires a sound understanding of the local situation and a systematic process for prioritizing interventions, integrating them into existing delivery platforms and monitoring their implementation and impact. The identification of adequate food-based feeding recommendations that respect locally available foods and address gaps in nutrient availability is particularly challenging. We describe two tools that are now available to strengthen infant and young child-feeding programming at national and subnational levels. Pro PAN is a set of research tools that guide users through a step-by-step process for identifying problems related to young child nutrition; defining the context in which these problems occur; formulating, testing, and selecting behaviour-change recommendations and nutritional recipes; developing the interventions to promote them; and designing a monitoring and evaluation system to measure progress towards intervention goals. Optifood is a computer-based platform based on linear programming analysis to develop nutrient-adequate feeding recommendations at lowest cost, based on locally available foods with the addition of fortified products or supplements when needed, or best recommendations when the latter are not available. The tools complement each other and a case study from Peru illustrates how they have been used. The readiness of both instruments will enable partners to invest in capacity development for their use in countries and strengthen programmes to address infant and young child feeding and prevent malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there are some examples of successful complementary feeding programmes to promote healthy growth and prevent stunting at the community level, to date there are few, if any, examples of successful programmes at scale. A lack of systematic process and impact evaluations on pilot projects to generate lessons learned has precluded scaling up of effective programmes. Programmes to effect positive change in nutrition rarely follow systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation (PIE) processes to enhance effectiveness over the long term. As a result a set of programme-oriented key principles to promote healthy growth remains elusive. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap by proposing a set of principles to improve programmes and interventions to promote healthy growth and development. Identifying such principles for programme success has three requirements: rethinking traditional paradigms used to promote improved infant and young child feeding; ensuring better linkages to delivery platforms; and, improving programming. Following the PIE model for programmes and learning from experiences from four relatively large-scale programmes described in this paper, 10 key principles are identified in the areas of programme planning, programme implementation, programme evaluation, and dissemination, replication, and scaling up. Nonetheless, numerous operational research questions remain, some of which are highlighted in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate feeding and care may contribute to high rates of stunting and underweight among children in rural families in India. This cluster-randomized trial tested the hypothesis that teaching caregivers appropriate complementary feeding and strategies for how to feed and play responsively through home-visits would increase children's dietary intake, growth and development compared with home-visit-complementary feeding education alone or routine care. Sixty villages in Andhra Pradesh were randomized into three groups of 20 villages with 200 mother-infant dyads in each group. The control group (CG) received routine Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS); the complementary feeding group (CFG) received the ICDS plus the World Health Organization recommendations on breastfeeding and complementary foods; and the responsive complementary feeding and play group (RCF&PG) received the same intervention as the CFG plus skills for responsive feeding and psychosocial stimulation. Both intervention groups received bi-weekly visits by trained village women. The groups did not differ at 3 months on socioeconomic status, maternal and child nutritional indices, and maternal depression. After controlling for potential confounding factors using the mixed models approach, the 12-month intervention to the CFG and RCF&PG significantly ( P < 0.05) increased median intakes of energy, protein, Vitamin A, calcium (CFG), iron and zinc, reduced stunting [0.19, confidence interval (CI): 0.0-0.4] in the CFG (but not RCF&PG) and increased ( P < 0.01) Bayley Mental Development scores (mean = 3.1, CI: 0.8-5.3) in the RCF&PG (but not CFG) compared with CG. Community-based educational interventions can improve dietary intake, length (CFG) and mental development (RCF&PG) for children under 2 years in food-secure rural Indian families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fact that there is a complex and bidirectional communication between the immune and nervous systems has been well demonstrated. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of gram-negative bacteria, is widely used to systematically stimulate the immune system and generate profound physiological and behavioural changes, also known as 'sickness behaviour' (e.g. anhedonia, lethargy, loss of appetite, anxiety, sleepiness). Different ethological tools have been used to analyse the behavioural modifications induced by LPS; however, many researchers analysed only individual tests, a single LPS dose or a unique ethological parameter, thus leading to disagreements regarding the data. In the present study, we investigated the effects of different doses of LPS (10, 50, 200 and 500 μg/kg, i.p.) in young male Wistar rats (weighing 180-200 g; 8-9 weeks old) on the ethological and spatiotemporal parameters of the elevated plus maze, light-dark box, elevated T maze, open-field tests and emission of ultrasound vocalizations. There was a dose-dependent increase in anxiety-like behaviours caused by LPS, forming an inverted U curve peaked at LPS 200 μg/kg dose. However, these anxiety-like behaviours were detected only by complementary ethological analysis (stretching, grooming, immobility responses and alarm calls), and these reactions seem to be a very sensitive tool in assessing the first signs of sickness behaviour. In summary, the present work clearly showed that there are resting and alertness reactions induced by opposite neuroimmune mechanisms (neuroimmune bias) that could lead to anxiety behaviours, suggesting that misunderstanding data could occur when only few ethological variables or single doses of LPS are analysed. Finally, it is hypothesized that this bias is an evolutionary tool that increases animals' security while the body recovers from a systemic infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nervous system is classically organized into sympathetic and parasympathetic systems acting in opposition to maintain physiological homeostasis. Here, we report that both systems converge in the activation of β2-adrenoceptors of splenic regulatory lymphocytes to control systemic inflammation. Vagus nerve stimulation fails to control serum TNF levels in either β2-knockout or lymphocyte-deficient nude mice. Unlike typical suppressor CD25+ cells, the transfer of CD4+CD25- regulatory lymphocytes reestablishes the anti-inflammatory potential of the vagus nerve and β2-agonists to control inflammation in both β2-knockout and nude mice. β2-Agonists inhibit cytokine production in splenocytes (IC50~1 µM) and prevent systemic inflammation in wild-type but not in β2-knockout mice. β2-Agonists rescue wild-type mice from established polymicrobial peritonitis in a clinically relevant time frame. Regulatory lymphocytes reestablish the anti-inflammatory potential of β2-agonists to control systemic inflammation, organ damage, and lethal endotoxic shock in β2-knockout mice. These results indicate that β2-adrenoceptors in regulatory lymphocytes are critical for the anti-inflammatory potential of the parasympathetic vagus nerve, and they represent a potential pharmacological target for sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study objective was to understand the role of traditional Awajún foods in dietary quality and the potential impacts on growth of Awajún infants and young children 0-23 months of age. Research took place in April and May of 2004, along the Cenepa River in six Awajún communities. Anthropometry estimated nutritional status for 32 infants (0-23 months). Repeat dietary recalls and infant feeding histories were completed with 32 mothers. Adequacy of the complementary foods was compared with World Health Organization guidelines. Anthropometry indicated a high prevalence of stunting (39.4% of infants and young children), with nutritional status declining with age. Half of the Awajún mothers practised exclusive breastfeeding. Dietary recalls and infant food histories suggested that many of the infants were getting adequate nutrition from complementary foods and breastfeeding; however, there was variation in breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices among the mothers. Complementary feeding for young children 12-23 months generally met nutrient recommendations, but mean intakes for iron, zinc, calcium and vitamin A were inadequate in infants 6-11 months. Traditional foods provided 85% of energy and were more nutrient dense than market foods. Appropriate infant and complementary feeding was found among some women; however, given the range of feeding practices and introduction of market foods, health promotion targeting infant and young child feeding is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erythropoietin (EPO) has the potential to improve ischemic tissue by mobilizing endothelial progenitor cells and enhancing neovascularization. We hypothesized that combining EPO with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) would improve post-myocardial infarction (MI) effects synergistically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces fever through two parallel pathways; one, prostaglandin (PG)-dependent and the other, PG-independent and involving endothelin-1 (ET-1). For a better understanding of the mechanisms by which dipyrone exerts antipyresis, we have investigated its effects on fever and changes in PGE(2) content in plasma, CSF and hypothalamus induced by either LPS or ET-1.Experimental Approach: Rats were given (i.p.) dipyrone (120 mg·kg(-1)) or indomethacin (2 mg·kg(-1)) 30 min before injection of LPS (5 µg·kg(-1), i.v.) or ET-1 (1 pmol, i.c.v.). Rectal temperature was measured by tele-thermometry. PGE(2) levels were determined in the plasma, CSF and hypothalamus by elisa.Key Results: LPS or ET-1 induced fever and increased CSF and hypothalamic PGE(2) levels. Two hours after LPS, indomethacin reduced CSF and hypothalamic PGE(2) but did not inhibit fever, while at 3 h it reduced all three parameters. Three hours after ET-1, indomethacin inhibited the increase in CSF and hypothalamic PGE(2) levels but did not affect fever. Dipyrone abolished both the fever and the increased CSF PGE(2) levels induced by LPS or ET-1 but did not affect the increased hypothalamic PGE(2) levels. Dipyrone also reduced the increase in the venous plasma PGE(2) concentration induced by LPS.Conclusions and Implications: These findings confirm that PGE(2) does not play a relevant role in ET-1-induced fever. They also demonstrate for the first time that the antipyretic effect of dipyrone was not mechanistically linked to the inhibition of hypothalamic PGE(2) synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antonopoulos IM, Piovesan AC, Falci R Jr, Kanashiro H, Saito FJA, Nahas WC. Transurethral injection therapy with carbon-coated beads (Durasphere) for treatment of recurrent pyelonephritis in kidney transplant patients with vesico-ureteral reflux to the allograft. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 329-333. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Recurrent transplant pyelonephritis (RTP) secondary to vesico-ureteral reflux (VUR) to the transplant kidney (KTx) remains a significant cause of infectious complications with impact on patient and graft outcomes. Our objective was to verify the safety and efficacy of transurethral injection of Durasphere to relieve RTP secondary to VUR after renal transplantation. Between June 2004 and July 2008, eight patients with RTP (defined as two or more episodes of pyelonephritis after transplantation) and VUR to the KTx were treated with subureteral injections of Durasphere. The mean age at surgery was 38.8 ± 13.8 yr (23-65). The patients were followed regularly every six months. The mean interval between the KTx and the treatment was 76 ± 74.1 (10-238 months). The mean follow-up was 22.3 ± 16.1 months (8-57 months). Six patients (75%) were free of pyelonephritis during a mean period of follow-up of 23.2 ± 17.1 months (8-57 months). Two of them had no VUR and four cases presented with G II VUR (pre-operative G IV three cases and one case G III). In one case, symptomatic recurrent cystitis made a second treatment necessary. This patient remained free of infections for three yr after the first treatment and for 18 months after the second treatment. Of the remaining two patients, one had six episodes of RTP before treatment in a period of three yr and only two episodes after treatment in two yr of follow-up. The last case had a new episode of pyelonephritis five months after treatment. Transurethral injection therapy with Durasphere is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment option for KTx patients with recurrent RTP. A second treatment seems to be necessary in some cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A notable omission in studies of developmental links to early nutritional deficiencies is infant attachment. In those few studies investigating associations between infant nutrition and attachment, nutrition was defined solely by physical growth, and infants had moderate-severe growth retardation. In this study, we utilized multiple markers of infant nutrition. Our sample consisted of 172 12-month-old Peruvian infants and their mothers from low-income families, with a follow-up assessment on 77 infants at 18 months. Infants were not severely malnourished, but did have micronutrient deficiencies. Anthropometry, dietary intake, and iron status were used as measures of infant nutrition. Based on infant behavior in a structured laboratory situation, Q-sort techniques were used to rate three attachment markers: infant secure base behavior, interaction quality, and negative emotionality with mother. At 12 months, infant weight was positively related to interaction quality. At 18 months, infant iron status was positively related to secure base behavior. This pattern of findings remained even after statistically controlling for family socioeconomic status and maternal education. Our findings indicate that infant nutritional status is associated with markers of infant attachment and these associations are not restricted just to severely malnourished infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise mechanisms explaining the anti-hypertensive effects produced by quercetin are not fully known. Here, we tested the hypothesis that chronic quercetin treatment inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). We examined whether quercetin treatment for 14 days reduces in vivo responses to angiotensin I or enhances the responses to bradykinin in anaesthetised rats. We measured the changes in systemic arterial pressure induced by angiotensin I in doses of 0.03-10 μg/kg, by angiotensin II in doses of 0.01-3 μg/kg, and to bradykinin in doses of 0.03-10 μg/kg in anaesthetised rats pre-treated with vehicle (controls), or daily quercetin 10 mg/kg intraperitoneally for 14 days, or a single i.v. dose of captopril 2 mg/kg. Plasma ACE activity was determined by a fluorometric method. Plasma quercetin concentrations were assessed by high performance liquid chromatography. Quercetin treatment induced no significant changes in the hypertensive responses to angiotensin I and angiotensin II, as well in the hypotensive responses to bradykinin (all p > 0.05). Conversely, as expected, a single dose of captopril inhibited the hypertensive responses to angiotensin I and potentiated the bradykinin responses (all p < 0.01), while no change was found in the vascular responses to angiotensin II (all p > 0.05). In addition, although we found significant amounts of quercetin in plasma samples (mean = 206 ng/mL), no significant differences were found in plasma ACE activity in rats treated with quercetin compared with those found in the control group (50 ± 6 his-leu nmol/min/mL and 40 ± 7 his-leu nmol/min/mL, respectively; p > 0.05). These findings provide strong evidence indicating that quercetin does not inhibit ACE in vivo or in vitro and indicate that other mechanisms are probably involved in the antihypertensive and protective cardiovascular effects associated with quercetin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the immune response against some pathogens. For this purpose, we investigated the in situ paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) immune response addressing the participation of NK cells, CD8+ T cells, perforin and granzyme B expression. Methods: Sixty biopsies of PCM skin and mucosa were classified according to the presence of compact granulomas (G1), poorly organized granulomas (G2) and both kinds in the same lesion (G3). CD8+ T cells, NK cells, perforin and granzyme B were showed by immunohistochemistry. Results: CD8+ T cells were increased over NK cells in cutaneous G1 and G2 lesions. There was no difference regarding such cells in G3 lesions, although they were abundant in such lesions. In mucosa, CD8+ T cells were increased in number over NK cells in all groups. Granzyme B in skin increased in G2 and G3. The number of granzyme did not differ in mucosal lesions in the three groups. Conclusions: CD8+ T cells and NK cells play a role in PCM cutaneous and mucosal lesions. The predominance of CD8+ T cells over NK cells may represent an effective response against the fungi. Moreover, the high number of granzyme B expressing cells corroborates this possibility. Pagliari C, Pereira NV, Kanashiro L, Stegun FW, Croda J, Seixas Duarte MI, Sotto MN. Characterization of cytotoxic immune response in skin and mucosal lesions of paracoccidioidomycosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors for early lactation problems [suboptimal infant breastfeeding behaviour (SIBB), delayed onset of lactogenesis (OL) and excessive neonatal weight loss] among mother–infant pairs in Lima, Peru. All primiparous mothers who gave birth to a healthy, single, term infant at a government hospital in a peri-urban area of Lima during the 8-month recruitment period were invited to participate in the study. Data were collected at the hospital (day 0) and during a home visit (day 3). Infant breastfeeding behaviour was evaluated using the Infant Breastfeeding Assessment Tool; SIBB was defined as ≤10 score. OL was determined by maternal report of breast fullness changes; delayed OL was defined as perceived after 72 h. Excessive neonatal weight loss was defined as ≥10% of birthweight by day 3. One hundred seventy-one mother–infant pairs participated in the study. SIBB prevalence was 52% on day 0 and 21% on day 3; it was associated with male infant gender (day 0), <8 breastfeeds during the first 24 h (days 0 and 3), and gestational age <39 weeks (day 3). Delayed OL incidence was 17% and was associated with infant Apgar score <8. Excessive neonatal weight loss occurred in 10% of neonates and was associated with maternal overweight and Caesarean-section delivery. Early lactation problems may be influenced by modifiable factors such as delivery mode and breastfeeding frequency. Infant status at birth and maternal characteristics could indicate when breastfeeding dyads need extra support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]