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Aims: To study the protective effect of hydroalcoholic bark extract of Terminalia arjuna against DBTC induced pancreatic cancer in male wistar rats. Study design: Healthy male Wistar Albino rats weighing 150-200 g were segregated into four groups (n=6). Group I was considered as normal control, received normal saline (0.9%w/v, 1 ml/kg body weight, orally). Group II rats were treated with DBTC (6 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) which served as negative control. Group III and IV received Terminalia arjuna Linn bark hydroalcoholic extract at doses of 250 mg/kg body weight, per oral and 500 mg/kg body weight, per oral respectively. Place and Duration of Study: University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India, between May 2020 and July 2020. Methodology: The experimental animals were segregated into four groups of six rats each. According to acute toxicity data, 250 mg/kg as low dose and 500 mg/kg as high dose of the test compound have been chosen for administration. All the drugs were given for 28 consecutive days to all the respective groups with standard pellet diet and water ad libitum. The assessment of serum parameters such as α-Amylase, Lipase and blood glucose levels were carried out on 1st day, 14th day and 28th day to the respective groups. Results: Pretreated groups of Terminalia arjuna Linn bark hydroalcoholic extract (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight, orally) showed significant (‘#’p

Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) is the vector of multiple arboviruses. To evaluate the association between environmental factors and the oviposition activity of Ae. aegypti in Argentina, data on the presence and abundance of eggs were collected using ovitraps, between September of 2018 and May of 2019, in the cities of Villa María, Río Cuarto and Salsipuedes (Córdoba province, Argentina). We analysed the relationships between oviposition and five environmental factors: Temperature, precipitation, vegetation cover, human population density and distance to sites with a potential high density of larval habitats, like cemeteries and trash dumps. Environmental factors' data were collected using satellite image products. The oviposition activity was randomly distributed in three cities. Using generalized linear mixed models, we show that the house where each ovitrap was placed was a source of variability in oviposition, suggesting the relevance of microsite factors and the importance of domestic control actions. Ae. aegypti oviposition was positively correlated with night-time temperature of the previous 3 weeks, and in a context-dependent manner, it was positively correlated with human population density, vegetation cover and precipitation. The consistency and magnitude of these relationships varied between cities, indicating that oviposition is related to a complex system of environmental variables.

Context: Monitoring training loads and consequent fatigue responses are usually a result of personal trainers’ experiences and an adaptation of methods used in sports for people without disabilities. Currently, there is little scientific evidence on the relationship between training load and fatigue resulting from training sessions in wheelchair sports. Analogous to the vertical jump, which has been associated with competitive performance and used to assess fatigue in Olympic sports, the medicine ball throw (MBT) is a fast, feasible, and accessible test that might be used to measure performance outcomes in Paralympic athletes. Objective: To test the MBT responsiveness to detect meaningful changes after training sessions in beginner wheelchair basketball players (WBP). Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Rehabilitation Hospital Network, Paralympic Program. Participants: Twelve male WBP. Main Outcomes Measures: The participants performed 3 consecutive days of training sessions involving exercises of wheelchair basketball skills, strength, and power. The MBT test was performed pre and post training sessions. Results: The smallest worthwhile change for MBT was 0.10 cm, and the lower and upper limits were 3.54 and 3.75 m, respectively. On the first day, the MBT started below the smallest worthwhile change lower limit and increased above the upper limit (3.53 and 3.78 m, respectively). On the second day, the MBT pretraining and posttraining session results were near the sample mean (3.62 and 3.59 m, respectively). On the third day, the WBP started the MBT test training higher than the upper limit (3.78 m) and decreased to near the mean (3.58 m). Conclusions: During 3 consecutive days of training sessions, the magnitude-based inference model presented meaningful changes in MBT test performance. The accurate association of the magnitude-based inference model with the MBT allows coaches and sports team staff to interpret the correct magnitude of change in WBP performance.

Background: In sports such as wheelchair rugby, the correct assessment and quantification of an athletes’ peak of torque and fatigue index in sport-specific actions are essential in monitoring an athletes’ training performance. The increase in the number of people practicing Paralympic sports has been growing exponentially, contributing to an increase of competition level and of athletes’ performance. Objective: Thus, physical training for Paralympic sport must aim to maximize athletes’ fitness potential by investigating and evaluating what variables are most important in determining ideal sporting performance. Methods: Six high-level wheelchair rugby athletes had their wheelchair propulsion peak of torque and fatigue index evaluated by isokinetic dynamometry in three different angular velocity and repetition schemes. Results: The athletes presented no significant statistical difference in peak of torque and fatigue index for both arms at different number of repetitions and angular velocity. Conclusions: This shows that independent of dexterity parameters or duration of stimuli, these high-level athletes display this motor skill in constant levels of performance. These results will allow coaches to set up normative parameters to test and evaluate their players’ performances.

The world has been experiencing a pandemic period caused by COVID-19 since March 2020. Many sporting events were suspended or canceled which interfered with the athletes' lives. Athletes with disabilities, depending on the pathology profile, may be more susceptible to major complications from COVID-19 infection. Thus, the entire family and club structure must adopt strategies to prevent the contagion that permeates social isolation and information about returning to training.

Objectives This research aimed to evaluate the antiangiogenic activity of isolated flavonoid 4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-5-hydroxy-3,7,8-trimethoxy-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) chromen-4-one (TMF) from Tabebuia chrysantha. STAT3-MMP9 signalling is a signal transduction mechanism that promotes angiogenesis in various cancers. Methods The tumour xenografting chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model-based ex vivo assay was used to evaluate the activity of TMF. The Western blot, densitometric analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed to evaluate the activity of the MMP9. Zebrafish embryos were used to evaluate embryotoxicity, and in vitro free radical scavenging activity of flavonoid was also elucidated. Key findings This research assessed the high level of STAT3, p-ERK, VEGF-R and MMP9 in the tissue extract of the control group, and also, the suppression of angiogenesis in the treatment groups was due to scavenged ROS and RNS, dephosphorylation of STAT3 and ERK, and suppression of MMP9 gene expression. Conclusion The isolated flavonoid named TMF from T. chrysantha functions as specific regulators of target proteins of angiosarcoma. The STAT3-MMP9 signalling may be used as an effective prognostic marker of angiosarcoma.

Flight is the main form of dispersion for adult triatomines. It is postulated here that some body morphological parameters vary in T. guasayana according to a greater or lesser wing development, which would allow to estimate their flight capacity. Furthermore, there are observations which allow to suggest that the wings alone would not present the entirety of the information on the flight ability of an insects. It is postulated here that some body morphological parameters vary in T.guasayana according to a greater or lesser wing development. The study aims to verify the hypothesis that the variation of the wing phenotype in triatomines is accompanied by variations of other body structures, particularly the head. Geometric morphometry of heads, thorax width and wing length of T.guasayana brachypterous and macropterous was used. The results allow to confirm that there is a relationship between the wing condition of T. guasayana and other variables – unrelated to wings – that can be associated with flight capacity. The shape of the head changes with the wing condition. The results obtained suggest that the diversity of wing morphotypes imply a diversity in head conformation, suitable for flight: macropterous have a greater distance between eyes and shorter heads, while brachy or micropterous exhibit smaller eyes and larger heads. For the first time, brachypterous individuals of T.guasayana are recorded here, posing the existence of a pronounced alary polymorphism in this species. Identifying these markers in triatomines is of special importance to understand the processes of domicile recolonization after vector control campaigns.

Existing methods to detect domestic triatomines have low sensitivity. As early house infestation detection is epidemiologically important, the exploration of better methods is required. Hence, we measured the attractiveness of a yeast-baited trap to adults and nymphs of Triatoma infestans, under laboratory conditions. The assays were conducted in an experimental arena, with an experimental and a control traps placed at opposite sides and one refuge in the center area. Insects were released and the number of triatomines in the yeast and control traps were counted, after 3, 6 and 24 h of the beginning of the experiment. We used generalized linear models within a multimodel inference approach to model the number of insects in the trap, using insect age classes, time after assay initiation and date of the experiment as predictors. Our results show that the attraction to CO2 depends upon the life stage of the insects. During the 24 h of experiment a constant number of adults (3.5; 95% CI [3.0; 4.1]) were attracted to the yeast trap, while nymphs show attraction only up to the first three hours after the initiation of CO2 liberation (2.7; 95% CI [2.0; 3.5]). Undoubtedly, the orientation response to chemical cues deserves further studies to be fully understood. Fil: Cardozo, Miriam. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Cs.exactas Físicas y Naturales. Departamento de Fisiología. Cátedra de Introducción A la Biología; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas; Argentina Fil: Fiad, Federico Gastón. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Cs.exactas Físicas y Naturales. Departamento de Fisiología. Cátedra de Introducción A la Biología; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas; Argentina Fil: Crocco, Liliana Beatriz. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales. Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Cs.exactas Físicas y Naturales. Departamento de Fisiología. Cátedra de Introducción A la Biología; Argentina Fil: Gorla, David Eladio. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal; Argentina

Fil: Quero, Martín. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Laboratorio de Genética, Ambiente y Reproducción (GenAR); Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET). Mendoza. República Argentina. Fil: Zarco, Agustín. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Laboratorio de Genética, Ambiente y Reproducción (GenAR); Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Universidad Nacional de Cuyo - CONICET, Laboratorio de Biología de Aves, Grupo de Ecología del Comportamiento Animal (ECA). Mendoza. República Argentina. Fil: Landa, Florencia Belén. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Laboratorio de Genética, Ambiente y Reproducción (GenAr), Guaymallén, Mendoza, República Argentina. Fil: Gorla, Nora. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Laboratorio de Genética, Ambiente y Reproducción (GenAR), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET). Mendoza. República Argentina. ARTÍCULO PUBLICADO EN REVISTA EXTERNA. Plasma cholinesterase activity is a biomarker sensitive to the effect of organophosphate and carbamate pesticides, and its enzymatic levels have been previously unknown for most of the wild birds analyzed in the present study. Our objectives were to establish plasma acetylcholinesterase levels in songbirds of 2 undisturbed sites in the central Monte Desert (Argentina). We also examined the influence on cholinesterase activity of age, sex, body condition, feeding and migratory habits, and species. One hundred and sixty‐five wild birds belonging to 26 species were studied. The values obtained for acetylcholinesterase activity provide a good estimate of the normal values in free‐living individuals of the species Zonotrichia capensis, Molothrus bonariensis, Passer domesticus, Diuca diuca, Poospiza ornata, Saltator aurantiirostris, Gryseotyrannus aurantioatrocristatus, and Columbina picui, with interspecies differences. The median enzymatic levels ± standard error of the mean ranged from 546.31 ± 17.97 μmol min–1 L–1 in P.domesticus to 3439.90 ± 173.92 μmol min–1 L–1 in Tyrannus melancholicus. No significant differences were detected between different sexes or ages. Birds that migrate (which are also insectivores) showed higher levels of cholinesterase than residents (mainly granivores). It is recommended that in cases of bird poisoning, plasma cholinesterase activity can be used as a diagnostic tool only if pre‐exposure levels obtained in the same species are available, and ideally evaluated in individuals from the same biogeographical region. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019:1–9. © 2019 SETAC

The impact evaluation of pesticide exposure is conducted using combined data from biomonitoring and environmental monitoring. Damage to the human genome is, probably, the leading cause of chronic-degenerative disorders, reproductive toxicology, and developmental problems. Although the general population is exposed to pesticides, workers in the agrochemical industry and farmers represent a high-risk group due to the occupational and environmental exposure. The aim of this study is to determine whether occupational exposure to agrochemicals in Córdoba (Argentina) constitute a factor of genotoxic damage. The study was conducted in 30 pesticide applicators from the province of Córdoba. Chromosomal aberrations (CAs), micronuclei (MN), and comet assays (CO) were performed. The current study shows that occupational exposure to pesticides increases values of CAs, MN, and DNA fragmentation biomarkers, all indicators of damage to the genetic material. Evidence suggests that chronic exposure to pesticides is a potential risk to workers health.

Domestication of the helmeted guinea fowl (HGF; Numida meleagris) in Africa remains elusive. Here we report a high-quality de novo genome assembly for domestic HGF generated by long- and short-reads sequencing together with optical and chromatin interaction mapping. Using this assembly as the reference, we performed population genomic analyses for newly sequenced whole-genomes for 129 birds from Africa, Asia, and Europe, including domestic animals (n = 89), wild progenitors (n = 34), and their closely related wild species (n = 6). Our results reveal domestication of HGF in West Africa around 1,300-5,500 years ago. Scanning for selective signals characterized the functional genes in behavior and locomotion changes involved in domestication of HGF. The pleiotropy and linkage in genes affecting plumage color and fertility were revealed in the recent breeding of Italian domestic HGF. In addition to presenting a missing piece to the jigsaw puzzle of domestication in poultry, our study provides valuable genetic resources for researchers and breeders to improve production in this species.

Domestication of the helmeted guinea fowl (HGF; Numida meleagris) in Africa remains elusive. Here we report a high-quality de novo genome assembly for domestic HGF generated by long- and short-reads sequencing together with optical and chromatin interaction mapping. Using this assembly as the reference, we performed population genomic analyses for newly sequenced whole-genomes for 129 birds from Africa, Asia, and Europe, including domestic animals (n = 89), wild progenitors (n = 34), and their closely related wild species (n = 6). Our results reveal domestication of HGF in West Africa around 1,300–5,500 years ago. Scanning for selective signals characterized the functional genes in behavior and locomotion changes involved in domestication of HGF. The pleiotropy and linkage in genes affecting plumage color and fertility were revealed in the recent breeding of Italian domestic HGF. In addition to presenting a missing piece to the jigsaw puzzle of domestication in poultry, our study provides valuable genetic resources for researchers and breeders to improve production in this species.

The Roundabout (Robo) guidance receptor family induces axon repulsion in response to its ligand Slit by inducing local cytoskeletal changes; however, the link to the cytoskeleton and the nature of these cytoskeletal changes are poorly understood. Here, we show that the heteropentameric Scar/Wave Regulatory Complex (WRC), which drives Arp2/3-induced branched actin polymerization, is a direct effector of Robo signaling. Biochemical evidence shows that Slit triggers WRC recruitment to the Robo receptor’s WRC-interacting receptor sequence (WIRS) motif. In Drosophila embryos, mutants of the WRC enhance Robo1-dependent midline crossing defects. Additionally, mutating Robo1’s WIRS motif significantly reduces receptor activity in rescue assays in vivo, and CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis shows that the WIRS motif is essential for endogenous Robo1 function. Finally, axon guidance assays in mouse dorsal spinal commissural axons and gain-of-function experiments in chick embryos demonstrate that the WIRS motif is also required for Robo1 repulsion in mammals. Together, our data support an essential conserved role for the WIRS-WRC interaction in Robo1-mediated axon repulsion., eLife digest The brain is the most complex organ in the body. It contains billions of nerve cells, also known as neurons, with trillions of precise and specific connections, but how do these neurons know where to go and which connections to make as the brain grows? Neurons contain a small set of proteins known as guidance receptors. These receptors respond to external signals that can be attractive or repulsive. They instruct neurons to turn towards, or away from, the source of a signal. During embryonic development, neurons use these signals as guideposts to find their way to their destination. One such guidance receptor-signal pair consists of a receptor called Roundabout, also known as Robo, and its cue, Slit. Robo, which is located on the neuron’s surface, responds to the presence of Slit in the environment, by initiating a set of signalling events that instruct neurons to turn away. Neurons make the turn by rearranging their internal scaffolding, a network of proteins called the actin cytoskeleton. How Robo triggers this rearrangement is unclear. One possibility relies on a group of proteins called the WAVE regulatory complex, or the WRC for short. Researchers have already linked the WRC to nerve cell guidance, showing that it can trigger the growth of new filaments in the actin cytoskeleton. Proteins can activate the WRC by binding to it using a set of amino acids called a WRC-interacting receptor sequence, or WIRS for short, which Robo has. Chaudhari et al. used fruit flies to find out how Robo and the WRC interact. The experiments revealed that when Slit binds to Robo on the outside of a nerve cell, the WRC binds to Robo via its WIRS sequence on the inside of the cell. This attracts proteins inside the cell involved in rearranging the actin cytoskeleton. Disrupting this interaction by mutating either WRC or WIRS leads to severe errors in pathfinding, because when the WRC cannot connect to Robo, neurons cannot find their way. Experiments in mouse and chicken embryos showed that vertebrates use the WIRS sequence too, indicating that evolution has conserved this method of passing signals from Robo to the cytoskeleton. The fact that Slit and Robo work in the same way across fruit flies and vertebrates has implications for future medical research. Further work could explain how the brain and nervous system develop, and what happens when development goes wrong, but Slit and Robo control more than just nerve cell pathfinding. Research has linked disruptions in both proteins to many types of cancer, so a better understanding of how Robo interacts with the WRC could lead to new developments in different fields.

International audience; Background: The multicomponent meningococcal serogroup B vaccine (4CMenB) is currently indicated for active immunization against invasive meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB). However, genes encoding the 4CMenB antigens are also variably present and expressed in strains belonging to other meningococcal serogroups. In this study, we evaluated the ability of antibodies raised by 4CMenB immunisation to induce complement-mediated bactericidal killing of non-MenB strains. Methods: A total of 227 invasive non-MenB disease isolates were collected between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008 from England and Wales, France, and Germany; 41 isolates were collected during 2012 from Brazil. The isolates were subjected to genotypic analyses. A subset of 147 isolates (MenC, MenW and MenY) representative of the meningococcal genetic diversity of the total sample were tested in the human complement serum bactericidal antibody assay (hSBA) using sera from infants immunised with 4CMenB. Results: Serogroup and clonal complex repertoires of non-MenB isolates were different for each country. For the European panel, MenC, MenW and MenY isolates belonged mainly to ST-11, ST-22 and ST-23 complexes, respectively. For the Brazilian panel, most MenC and MenW isolates belonged to the ST-103 and ST-11 complexes, respectively, and most MenY isolates were not assigned to clonal complexes. Of the 147 non-MenB isolates, 109 were killed in hSBA, resulting in an overall coverage of 74%. Conclusion: This is the first study in which 147 non-MenB serogroup isolates have been analysed in hSBA to evaluate the potential of a MenB vaccine to cover strains belonging to other serogroups. These data demonstrate that antibodies raised by 4CMenB are able to induce bactericidal killing of 109 non-MenB isolates, representative of non-MenB genetic and geographic diversity. These findings support previous evidence that 4CMenB immunisation can provide cross-protection against non-MenB strains in infants, which represents an added benefit of 4CMenB vaccination.

Context: A detailed analysis of wheelchair basketball skills in beginner wheelchair basketball players (WBP) can provide practitioners with important indications regarding the selection and prospective development of potential sports talents. A comprehensive WBP evaluation can be very time consuming, mainly during the initial phases of the training processes, which could be a barrier in clinical and practical settings. Moreover, the large number and the turnover of beginner WBP attending rehabilitation centers make the applicability of field and strength tests unfeasible. Objective: To verify the relationships between the medicine ball throw (MBT) and wheelchair basketball mobility performance field tests and the shoulder and trunk peak torque in male and female beginner WBP. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Rehabilitation Hospital Network, Paralympic Program. Participants: Thirty-seven female and male beginner WBP. Main Outcomes Measures: Participants performed wheelchair basketball field tests (speed, agility, strength, and power tests) and the maximum strength test in the isokinetic dynamometer. The outcomes were correlated with the MBT results. Results: The MBT presented significantly very high and perfect correlations with all wheelchair basketball field tests assessed (5-m sprint, 20-m sprint, and zig-zag agility test with and without a ball), and peak torque (R2 ranging from .810 to .995; P ≤ .05) for male and female athletes. Conclusions: The MBT, a simple and feasible test, can be used for estimating and determining the wheelchair mobility performance of female and male beginner WBP. It is suggested to measure the distance of a 5-kg medicine ball thrown by athletes during training and testing routines to follow the players’ progression.

During embryonic development in bilaterally symmetric organisms, correct midline crossing is important for the proper formation of functional neural circuits. The aberrant development of neural circuits can result in multiple neurodevelopmental disorders, including horizontal gaze palsy, congenital mirror movement disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate proper axon guidance at the midline can provide insights into the pathology of neurological disorders. The signaling mechanisms that regulate midline crossing have been extensively studied in the Drosophila ventral nerve cord and the mouse embryonic spinal cord. In this review, we discuss these axon guidance mechanisms, highlighting the most recent advances in the understanding of how commissural axons switch their responsiveness from attractants to repellents during midline crossing.

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar o perfil dos professores de educação física que trabalham com a bocha paralímpica. As informações dos 69 professores foram alcançadas por meio de questionário do Google Forms que continha dez questões fechadas. A participação dos indivíduos no estudo foi de caráter voluntário, sem fins lucrativos e após serem explicados os objetivos e procedimentos da pesquisa, quando concordavam na participação respondiam o questionário. Os resultados revelaram que 60,9% dos professores são do sexo masculino, 36,3% tem mais de 40 anos de idade, 52,2% tem mais de dez anos de formação, 42% tem a graduação como formação acadêmica, 42% tem entre 01 e 05 anos de experiência com a modalidade, 33,4% tem frequência de treino de até três horas semanais com os atletas, 40,6% desempenham trabalho voluntário, 62,3% tem pouco domínio sobre os processos de classificação esportiva, 60,9% tem bom domínio das regras da modalidade e 50,8% não realizam avaliações com seus atletas. Assim, existe a necessidade de investir na formação continuada desses professores parece desenhar um perfil de técnicos melhores capacitados por todas as regiões do país. Esse processo passa também por um maior processo de profissionalização dos técnicos com maiores conhecimentos sobre classificação esportiva, regras e avaliação, além de uma maior quantidade de hora/treino balizada em conhecimentos científicos.

Objective: Despite the well-established efficacy of methotrexate (MTX) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), monotherapy is not sufficient in almost half of patients. The aim of this registry-based study was to detect possible predictive factors for the early failure of MTX as a first-line treatment in early RA patients. Materials and Methods: Five-hundred and ninety RA patients beginning MTX as the first-line treatment were included. Persistence on therapy was re-evaluated after 12 months. Baseline features of disease were evaluated by means of univariate Cox regression, and parameters significantly associated to the outcome were included in multivariate model. Results: One hundred and forty-nine patients (25.3%) failed MTX during the 1st year, for inefficacy in 43.6% and adverse events in 37.5% of cases, respectively. At univariate analysis, patients who discontinued or failed treatment showed lower mean age, higher prevalence of anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies (ACPAs), and higher number of tender/swollen joints. The dose of MTX was correlated with the efficacy and the tolerance of the drug. In particular, patients treated with 7.5 mg of MTX weekly showed a higher rate of discontinuation for inefficacy than adverse events, and the contrary was detected for higher doses. On multivariate analysis, age, ACPA, and number of tender joints were directly associated with MTX discontinuation or failure. Conclusions: More than 25% of RA patients treated with MTX as a first-line therapy failed treatment at 12 months. ACPA positivity, age, and number of tender joints were associated with early withdrawal of MTX in RA patients, while the dose of MTX was correlated to the efficacy and safety of the drug.

Purpose. To describe the antimicrobial resistance profile of Neisseria meningitidis isolates causing invasive disease in Brazil from 2009 to 2016. Methodology. Among 3548 N. meningitidis isolates received, 2888 (81.4 %) were analysed for antimicrobial resistance using the broth microdilution technique, as recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Isolates were tested for ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, ceftriaxone, penicillin G, ampicillin and rifampin. Results. All the isolates tested were susceptible to ceftriaxone, while 953 (33.0 %), 1307 (45.3 %) and 2 (0.07 %) isolates were penicillin G-, ampicillin- and rifampin-intermediate, respectively. Resistance to rifampin, ciprofloxacin and chloramphenicol was shown by three isolates (0.1 %), two isolates (0.07 %) and one (0.03 %) isolate, respectively. Although no isolates were resistant to penicillin G in the period of 2009–2016, our results show an upward trend in minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for this drug as of 2010 (P

Background: Aegle marmelos (Bilva) is being used in Ayurveda for the treatment of several inflammatory disorders. The plant is a member of a fixed dose combination of Dashamoola in Ayurveda. However, the usage of roots/root bark or stems is associated with sustainability concerns. Objectives: The present study is aimed to compare the anti-inflammatory properties of different extracts of young roots (year wise) and mature parts of Bilva plants collected from different geographical locations in India, so as to identify a sustainable source for Ayurvedic formulation. Materials and methods: A total of 191 extracts (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol and aqueous) of roots, stems and leaves of A. marmelos (collected from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh region) were tested for anti-inflammatory effects in vitro on isolated target enzymes cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), lymphocyte proliferation assay (LPA), cytokine profiling in LPS induced mouse macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell line and in vivo carrageenan induced paw edema in mice. Results: Of 191 extracts, 44 extracts showed COX-2 inhibition and 38 extracts showed COX-1 inhibition, while none showed 5-LOX inhibition. Cytokine analysis of the 44 extracts showing inhibition of COX-2 suggested that only 17 extracts modulated the cytokines by increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-2 and reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, MIP1-α and IL-6. The young (2 and 3 years) roots of Bilva plants from Gujarat and young (1 yr) roots from Odisha showed the most potent anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the pro-inflammatory cytokines and inducing anti-inflammatory cytokines. These three extracts have also shown in vivo anti-inflammatory activity comparable to that in adult stem and root barks. Conclusion: The present study reveals that young roots of Bilva plants from Gujarat and Odisha region could form a sustainable source for use in Ayurvedic formulations with anti-inflammatory activities. The present study also indicates that the region in which the plants are grown and the age of the plants play an important role in exhibiting the anti-inflammatory effect. Keywords: Aegle marmelos, Inflammation, Ayurveda, Cyclooxygenase-1 & 2, 5-Lipoxygenase, Immunomodulation

The epidemiological scenario in central Argentinian Chaco region shows persistence of Triatoma infestans domestic populations in endemic areas, with control interventions historically affected by the economic instability of the region. Considering this situation, we aimed to (i) update the information regarding to the diversity of triatomines present in domestic, peridomestic and sylvatic environments in departments historically endemic of the Chaco region, (ii) to report the occurrence of secondary vectors of Chagas disease invading domestic environments and (iii) to discuss the possible sources of dispersal of these sylvatic species towards anthropic habitats. Between November 2017 and March 2020, we visited fourteen rural communities of northwest Cordoba province (central Argentina). Entomological data were collected through community vector surveillance in domiciles, active search in peridomiciles and the use of light and yeast traps in sylvatic environments. Seven Triatominae species were captured invading domiciles (T. guasayana, T. garciabesi, T. platensis, T. delpontei, T. breyeri, Panstrongylus guentheri and T. infestans). T. guasayana and T. garciabesi were the species with the highest number of captures. The 32 % of the peridomiciles registered infestation with T. infestans (n ​​= 355), mostly in chicken coops and goat pens. In sylvatic environments, T. garciabesi, T. guasayana, T. infestans and P. guentheri were collected. Only one adult specimen of T. infestans was positive for the presence of Trypanosoma cruzi. Our results suggest that the persistence of T. infestans populations in peridomiciles continues to be a serious challenge for control programs, whereas the finding of secondary vectors of Chagas disease actively invading domiciles emphasizes the need to implement new strategies for entomological surveillance.

Fil: Ferré, Daniela Marisol. Centro Científico Tecnológico Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Quero, Martín. Centro Científico Tecnológico Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Hynes, Valentina. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Saldeña, Eliana. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Lentini, Valeria. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Tornello, Marcelo. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Carracedo, Rocío. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Mendoza, Argentina. Fil: Gorla, Nora Bibiana María. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Centro Científico Tecnológico Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Mendoza, Argentina. ARTÍCULO PUBLICADO EN REVISTA EXTERNA. La aplicación de plaguicidas es una práctica habitual en agricultura. Una alta proporción de estos productos están asociados con la generación de daño genético. Los tipos de plaguicidas, modos de aplicación y cantidad de elementos de protección personal usados varían entre regiones, lo que impide transferir en forma directa, la evidencia de genotoxicidad que se hubiese detectado en los trabajadores de otras zonas geográficas. En esta investigación, se estudió el nivel de daño genético en personas que han aplicado plaguicidas agrícolas en las plantaciones frutales de Mendoza, Argentina, durante los últimos 15 ± 3.15 años. Se utilizó la prueba de micronúcleos citoma bucal. Cuarenta personas participaron en el estudio incluyendo los trabajadores agrícolas y el grupo de referencia. Los trabajadores que utilizaron plaguicidas en sus prácticas agrícolas habituales mostraron una frecuencia de células micronucleadas (p ≤ 0.01), brotes nucleares y células binucleadas (p ≤ 0.05) mayores a las que presentó el grupo de referencia. El 65 % de los trabajadores han utilizado entre uno y tres elementos de protección personal, mientras que 70 % han aplicado plaguicidas mediante un turbo dispersor. La información sobre los elementos de protección personal, así como la maquinaria utilizada debería ser registrada como parte de la información básica para así, poder comparar los resultados con los de otras regiones. Las anomalías detectadas no presentaron una asociación estadística con los tipos de prácticas agrícolas ni con el género, edad, hábito de fumar, uso de medicación en forma crónica de los participantes. Los biomarcadores de genotoxicidad que muestran aumentos estadísticamente significativos en el grupo expuesto pueden ayudar a comprender los presentes y futuros problemas de salud en este grupo. Sitio de la revista: http://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0188-49992018000100023

Background: For several years, the wild populations of Triatoma infestans, main vector of Trypanosoma cruzi causing Chagas disease, have been considered or suspected of being a source of reinfestation of villages. The number of sites reported for the presence of wild T. infestans, often close to human habitats, has greatly increased, but these data are scattered in several publications, and others obtained by our team in Bolivia have not been published yet. Methodology/principal findings: Herein is compiled the largest number of wild sites explored for the presence of T. infestans collected with two methods The standardized methods aimed to determine the relationship between wild T. infestans and the ecoregion, and the directed method help to confirm the presence/absence of triatomines in the ecoregions. Entomological indices were compared between ecoregions and an environmental niche modelling approach, based on bioclimatic variables, was applied. The active search for wild T. infestans in Bolivia suggests a discontinuous distribution from the Andean valleys to the lowlands (Chaco), while the models used suggest a continuous distribution between the two regions and very large areas where wild populations remain to be discovered. The results compile the description of different habitats where these populations were found, and we demonstrate that the environmental niches of wild and domestic populations, defined by climatic variables, are similar but not equivalent, showing that during domestication, T. infestans has conquered new spaces with wider ranges of temperature and precipitation. Conclusions/significance: The great diversity of wild T. infestans habitats and the comparison of their ecological niches with that of domestic populations confirm the behavioural plasticity of the species that increase the possibility of contact with humans. The result of the geographical distribution model of the wild populations calls for more entomological vigilance in the corresponding areas in the Southern Cone countries and in Bolivia. The current presentation is the most comprehensive inventory of wild T. infestans-positive sites that can be used as a reference for further entomological vigilance in inhabited areas. Fil: Brenière, Simone Frédérique. Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador; Ecuador. INTERTRYP - Cirad; Francia Fil: Buitrago, Rosio. INTERTRYP - Cirad; Francia. Instituto Nacional de Laboratorios de Salud; Bolivia Fil: Waleckx, Etienne. Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán; México Fil: Depickère, Stéphanie. INTERTRYP - Cirad; Francia. Instituto Nacional de Laboratorios de Salud; Bolivia. Universidad Mayor de San Andrés; Bolivia Fil: Sosa, Victor. INTERTRYP - Cirad; Francia. Gobierno Autónomo Departamental de Santa Cruz. Dirección de Recursos Naturales. Secretaria de Desarrollo Sostenible y Medio Ambiente; Bolivia Fil: Barnabé, Christian. INTERTRYP - Cirad; Francia Fil: Gorla, David Eladio. Comision Nacional de Actividades Espaciales. Instituto de Altos Estudios Espaciales "Mario Gulich"; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a composite graft of ChronOS, a beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), mixed 1:1 with an autogenous bone graft in human maxillary sinus augmentation. A total of 12 maxillary sinuses were grafted with an autogenous bone graft (control group), and 9 maxillary sinuses were grafted with ChronOS mixed 1:1 with an autogenous bone graft (test group). After 6 months, biopsy samples were obtained concurrent to the placement of dental implants and were subjected to histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses for Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, and osteocalcin. Histologic analysis of samples obtained from the test group revealed the presence of immature bone, while samples from the control group indicated lamellar bone formation. However, both types of bone grafts were well vascularized. The new bone formation averaged 25.4% ± 6.4% in the test group and 38.6% ± 10.5% in the control group (P = .001). Immunostaining of samples in the test group showed high cellular turnover. The outcomes of this study demonstrate a delay in bone formation but intense cellular differentiation after 6 months of bone graft healing in the test group. The amount of immature bone and the immunostaining for RUNX2 and VEGF provide evidence of an osteogenic pathway that can improve the bone formation rate.

Universidade de Bras?lia. Faculdade de Medicina. Departamento de Patologia. Bras?lia, DF, Brasil. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Laborat?rio de Geoprocessamento. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil. Al? Meio Ambiente e Geoprocessamento Ltda. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil. Universidad Nacional de C?rdoba. Instituto de Altos Estudios Espaciales Mario Gulich. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cient?ficas y T?cnicas. C?rdoba, AR. Funda??o Oswaldo Cruz. Centro de Pesquisas Ren? Rachou. Laborat?rio de Triatom?neos e Epidemiologia da Doen?a de Chagas. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil. BACKGROUND: Triatoma sordida and Triatoma pseudomaculata are frequently captured triatomine species in the Brazilian savannah and caatinga biomes, respectively, and in Brazilian domiciles. OBJECTIVES: This study identified eco-epidemiological changes in Chagas disease in northern Minas Gerais state, Brazil, and considered the influence of environmental shifts and both natural and anthropogenic effects. METHODS: Domicile infestation and Trypanosoma cruzi infection rates were obtained from triatomines and sylvatic reservoirs during the following two time periods: the 1980s and 2007/2008. Entomological and climatic data with land cover classification derived from satellite imagery were integrated into a geographic information system (GIS), which was applied for atmospheric correction, segmentation, image classification, and mapping and to analyse data obtained in the field. Climatic data were analysed and compared to land cover classifications. RESULTS: A comparison of current data with data obtained in the 1980's showed that T. sordida colonised domiciliary areas in both periods, and that T. pseudomaculata did not colonise these areas. There was a tendency toward a reduction in T. cruzi infection rates in sylvatic reservoirs, and of triatomines captured in both households and in the sylvatic environment. T. sordida populations have reduced in the sylvatic environment, while T. pseudomaculata showed an expanding trend in the region compared to counts observed in the 1980's in the sylvatic environment. This may be related to high deforestation rates as well as gradual increases in land surface temperature (LST) and temperatures along the years. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest a geographical expansion of species into new biomes as a result of anthropogenic and climatic changes that directly interfere with the reproductive and infection processes of vectors.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T16:45:50Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-04-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) The aim of this study was to compare the use of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) (chronOS) with autogenous bone grafts alone in maxillary sinus elevation surgery. The test samples were β-TCP alone, β-TCP mixed with autogenous bone grafts (1:1), and autogenous bone grafts alone. Twelve maxillary sinuses were grafted with β-TCP (group 1), nine with β-TCP + autogenous bone graft (group 2), and 12 with autogenous bone graft (group 3). After 6 months, biopsies were obtained concurrent to the placement of dental implants; these were subjected to histomorphometric analysis and immunohistochemical analysis for runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The average bone formation in group 1 was 46.3 ± 11.6% in the pristine bone region, 47.6 ± 9.9% in the intermediate region, and 44.8 ± 22.1% in the apical region; in group 2, values were 35.0 ± 15.8%, 32.5 ± 13.7%, and 32.8 ± 16.0%, respectively; in group 3, values were 43.1 ± 16.0%, 31.0 ± 13.0%, and 46.1 ± 16.3%, respectively. Immunostaining of samples in group 2 showed high cellular activity and immature bone; this differed from groups 1 and 3, in which mature bone was demonstrated. Thus, this study showed that β-TCP presents the same behaviour as autogenous bone graft, which makes it a good bone substitute. Araçatuba Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP Araraquara Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP Araçatuba Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP Araraquara Dental School Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP FAPESP: 2012/08455-4 FAPESP: 2012/10028-7

Introduction Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) has a high rate of fatality and may cause severe clinical sequelae. Over the years, the epidemiology of IMD has changed significantly in various regions of the world, and laboratory surveillance of this disease is important for mapping epidemiologic changes. Aim To perform phenotypic characterization of Neisseria meningitidis strains isolated from invasive disease in Brazil from 2002 to 2017, as a complementation of the data obtained in the period of 1990-2001. Methodology In total, 8,689 isolates sent to Adolfo Lutz Institute confirmed as N. meningitidis by conventional methods were serogrouped by slide agglutination against MenA, MenB, MenC, MenE, MenW, MenX, MenY and MenZ; serotyped and serosubtyped by a whole-cell dot-blotting assay with monoclonal antibodies. Results The isolates were sent from all regions of Brazil, and the southeast region was responsible for the largest number of isolates (57.2 %). Overall, the total sample (n=8,689) was represented by serogroups C (n=4,729; 54.4 %), B (n=3,313; 38.1 %), W (n=423; 4.9 %), Y (n=203; 2.3 %), X (n=5; 0.1 %) and others (n=16; 0.2 %). A shift in the prevalence of serogroups was observed in 2006, when serogroup C became the most prevalent (65.5 %), surpassing the serogroup B (21.9 %). The main isolated phenotypes were C:23:P1.14-6; B:4,7:P1.19,15; W:2a:P1.5 and W:2a:P1.5,2. Conclusion The data show an important change in the distribution of meningococcal serogroups, serotypes and subtypes occurring during 2002-2017. A continuous laboratory-based surveillance provides robust information to implement appropriate strategies to IMD control.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:29:48Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-01-01 Pseudostem is an abundant residue after harvesting of the banana bunch, serving as a source of water, nutrients and organic substances. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of pseudostem waste on 'Nanica' banana (Musa spp. AAA) cultivar in greenhouse under contrasting environmental conditions. For this, an experiment was carried out in in the São Paulo State University -UNESP in a randomized block design in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme (presence or absence of waste and two seasons), consisting of four replicates of three experimental plots with two pots per plant. One season was early November/2018 (Summer) and the other half of May/2019 (Winter). A 40 cm portion of the pseudostem collected from of a freshly harvested plant was sectioned into 10 cm portions and placed under the substrate of the seedling-containing pot at both times. Periodically, height, pseudostem diameter and leaf emission were evaluated. After the release of leachate by the residue, plants were taken to the laboratory, and the area of leaves and roots, their respective masses, and the leaf nutrient content were determined. The nutritional composition of the residue was evaluated before being applied for both seasons. In summer, accumulated dry matter in the different organs, leaf area and root area was higher in the presence of the residue, while in winter, only root dry mass was higher (P < 0.01). The application of residue had a consistent effect on root growth, which can be exploited in the field. Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho UNESP Polo Vale do Ribeira Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios APTA Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho UNESP

STAT3, a transcription factor involved in various physiological and pathological processes, is also present in mitochondria. Mitochondrial STAT3 regulates complex I activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, yet the mechanisms governing its translocation to mitochondria remain poorly understood. In this study, we show that rotenone-induced ROS triggers the Ser727 phosphorylation of STAT3 and its increased mitochondrial localisation. Furthermore, we show that STAT3-depleted cells display increased ROS levels during rotenone treatment. Targeted expression in mitochondria of wild-type STAT3 - but not S727A mutant - lowers ROS levels, indicating the importance of Ser727 phosphorylation, both in rotenone-induced mitochondrial targeting and quenching of ROS levels. Together, our results demonstrate a novel STAT3-mediated feedback mechanism to maintain redox homeostasis during stress.

Background Mepraia gajardoi and Mepraia spinolai are endemic triatomine vector species of Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite that causes Chagas disease. These vectors inhabit arid, semiarid and Mediterranean areas of Chile. Mepraia gajardoi occurs from 18° to 25°S, and M. spinolai from 26° to 34°S. Even though both species are involved in T. cruzi transmission in the Pacific side of the Southern Cone of South America, no study has modelled their distributions at a regional scale. Therefore, the aim of this study is to estimate the potential geographical distribution of M. spinolai and M. gajardoi under current and future climate scenarios. Methods We used the Maxent algorithm to model the ecological niche of M. spinolai and M. gajardoi, estimating their potential distributions from current climate information and projecting their distributions to future climatic conditions under representative concentration pathways (RCP) 2.6, 4.5, 6.0 and 8.5 scenarios. Future predictions of suitability were constructed considering both higher and lower public health risk situations. Results The current potential distributions of both species were broader than their known ranges. For both species, climate change projections for 2070 in RCP 2.6, 4.5, 6.0 and 8.5 scenarios showed different results depending on the methodology used. The higher risk situation showed new suitable areas, but the lower risk situation modelled a net reduction in the future potential distribution areas of M. spinolai and M. gajardoi. Conclusions The suitable areas for both species may be greater than currently known, generating new challenges in terms of vector control and prevention. Under future climate conditions, these species could modify their potential geographical range. Preventive measures to avoid accidental human vectorial transmission by wild vectors of T. cruzi become critical considering the uncertainty of future suitable areas projected in this study.

This study aims at investigating genomic diversity of several turkey populations using Copy Number Variants (CNVs). A total of 115 individuals from six Italian breeds (Colle Euganei, Bronzato Comune Italiano, Parma e Piacenza, Brianzolo, Nero d’Italia, and Ermellinato di Rovigo), seven Narragansett, 38 commercial hybrids, and 30 Mexican turkeys, were genotyped with the Affymetrix 600K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) turkey array. The CNV calling was performed with the Hidden Markov Model of PennCNV software and with the Copy Number Analysis Module of SVS 8.4 by Golden Helix®. CNV were summarized into CNV regions (CNVRs) at population level using BEDTools. Variability among populations has been addressed by hierarchical clustering (pvclust R package) and by principal component analysis (PCA). A total of 2,987 CNVs were identified covering 4.65% of the autosomes of the Turkey_5.0/melGal5 assembly. The CNVRs identified in at least two individuals were 362—189 gains, 116 losses, and 57 complexes. Among these regions the 51% contain annotated genes. This study is the first CNV mapping of turkey population using 600K chip. CNVs clustered the individuals according to population and their geographical origin. CNVs are known to be indicators also of adaptation, as some researches in different species are suggesting.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:Exposure to both urinary bacteria and antibiotics may impact the formation of calcium-based stone disease. Prior epidemiological studies have shown a strong association ...

After the decrease of the relative importance of Triatoma infestans, a number of studies reported the occurrence of sylvatic triatomines dispersing actively to domestic environments in the dry western Chaco Region of Argentina. Anthropic modification of the landscape is mentioned as one of the main causes of the increase in domicile invasion. The aim of this study was to describe the occurrence and frequency of sylvatic triatomines invading rural houses, and to evaluate the effect of habitat fragmentation and other ecological factors on the invasion of rural houses in central Argentina. We hypothesized that the decrease in food sources and the loss of wild ecotopes, as a consequence of habitat fragmentation, increase the chances of invasion by triatomines. The entomological data was collected by community-based vector surveillance during fieldwork carried out between 2017–2020, over 131 houses located in fourteen rural communities in the northwest of Córdoba Province (central Argentina). We used generalized linear models to evaluate the effect of (i) the environmental anthropic disturbance in the study area, (ii) the composition and configuration of the landscape surrounding the house, (iii) the spatial arrangement of houses, (iv) and the availability of artificial refuges and domestic animals in the peridomicile, on house invasion by triatomines. We report the occurrence of seven species of triatomines invading rural houses in the study area -T. infestans, T. guasayana, T. garciabesi, T. platensis, T. delpontei, T. breyeri and P. guentheri-. Study data suggest that invasion by triatomines occurs with higher frequency in disturbed landscapes, with houses spatially isolated and in proximity to subdivided fragments of forest. The availability of domestic refuges in the peridomestic structures as well as the presence of a higher number of domestic animals increase the chances of invasion by triatomines., Author summary Triatoma infestans is the main vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causal agent of Chagas disease in the southern cone countries of South America. A number of sylvatic species of triatomines have been reported dispersing actively into man-made habitats. The study of the ecological mechanisms associated with the active dispersion of sylvatic triatomines into domestic environments becomes relevant in terms of the potential risk of T. cruzi introduction from the wild cycle into the domestic transmission cycle. Anthropic modification of the landscape is mentioned as one of the possible causes of the increase in the active dispersion, due to the negative impact of habitat fragmentation on the availability of food sources (populations of birds and mammals) and wild ecotopes for sylvatic triatomines. Before the present study there have been no evidences testing this hypothesis. Previous authors focused on determining the effect of environmental disturbance considering one geographical scale. In this article we describe the occurrence and frequency of sylvatic triatomines invasion into rural houses, and discuss the effect of habitat fragmentation considering a multiple landscape-scale approach. This approach allowed testing the effect of compositional and configurational landscape properties around the house and environmental anthropic disturbance, among other ecological factors.

Genetic variation enables both adaptive evolutionary changes and artificial selection. Genetic makeup of populations is the result of a long-term process of selection and adaptation to specific environments and ecosystems. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of México's chicken population to reveal any underlying population structure. A total of 213 chickens were sampled in different rural production units located in 25 states of México. Genotypes were obtained using the Affymetrix Axiom ® 600 K Chicken Genotyping Array. The Identity by Descent (IBD) and the principal components analysis (PCA) were performed by SVS software on pruned single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). ADMIXTURE analyses identified 3 ancestors and the proportion of the genetic contribution of each of them has been determined in each individual. The results of the Neighbor-Joining (NJ) analysis resulted consistent with those obtained by the PCA. All methods utilized in this study did not allow a classification of Mexican chicken in distinct clusters or groups. A total of 3,059 run of homozygosity (ROH) were identified and, being mainly short in length (

Donkeys have played an important role in agricultural land practices and in human historical periods of recent past and, still today, are used as a working power in several world areas. The objective of this study was to identify genetic variability in six Italian donkey breeds using mtDNA D-loop. Fifteen haplotypes, grouped in three haplogroups, were identified. The genetic indices were informative and showed a high population genetic variability. The results of AMOVA analyses based on geographic structuring of Italian populations highlighted that the majority of the observed variance is due to differences among samples within breeds. Comparison among Italian haplotypes and mtDNA D-loop sequences belonging to European domestic and Ethiopian donkeys and wild asses, clearly define two clades referred to Nubian lineage. The results can be useful to complement safeguard planes for donkey breeds that are considered to extinction endangered.

Genomic and genetic variation among six Italian chicken native breeds (Livornese, Mericanel della Brianza, Milanino, Bionda Piemontese, Bianca di Saluzzo and Siciliana) were studied using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and copy number variants (CNV) as markers. A total of 94 DNA samples genotyped with Axiom® Genome-Wide Chicken Genotyping Array (Affymetrix) were used in the analyses. The results showed the genetic and genomic variability occurring among the six Italian chicken breeds. The genetic relationship among animals was established with a principal component analysis. The genetic diversity within breeds was calculated using heterozygosity values (expected and observed) and with Wright’s F-statistics. The individual-based CNV calling, based on log R ratio and B-allele frequency values, was done by the Hidden–Markov Model (HMM) of PennCNV software on autosomes. A hierarchical agglomerative clustering was applied in each population according to the absence or presence of definite CNV regions (CNV were grouped by overlapping of at least 1 bp). The CNV map was built on a total of 1003 CNV found in individual samples, after grouping by overlaps, resulting in 564 unique CNV regions (344 gains, 213 losses and 7 complex), for a total of 9.43 Mb of sequence and 1.03% of the chicken assembly autosome. All the approaches using SNP data showed that the Siciliana breed clearly differentiate from other populations, the Livornese breed separates into two distinct groups according to the feather colour (i.e. white and black) and the Bionda Piemontese and Bianca di Saluzzo breeds are closely related. The genetic variability found using SNP is comparable with that found by other authors in the same breeds using microsatellite markers. The CNV markers analysis clearly confirmed the SNP results.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar o perfil somatotípico e a composição corporal de atletas da seleção brasileira de futebol de 5. Participaram 23 atletas do sexo masculino. Todos foram submetidos à avaliação antropométrica e em seguida foram feitos os cálculos de índice de massa corporal (IMC), percentual de gordura corporal (%GC), somatório de pregas cutâneas (Σ9DC) e somatotipo. Observou-se que apenas os goleiros apresentaram diferença significativa (p ≤ 0,05) nas variáveis de IMC, %GC e Σ9DC em relação às outras posições. Os goleiros apresentaram perfil endomorfo-mesomorfo, os fixos mesomorfo-equilibrado e os alas e pivôs, endo-mesomorfo. Concluímos que os goleiros apresentam diferença significativa de %GC quando comparados com as outras posições e apresentaram diferenças somatotipológicas significativas em relação às outras posições. O mesmo foi observado na posição fixo quando comparados com os pivôs. Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the profiles somatotype and body composition of athletes of Brazilian 5-a-side football team. This study involved 23 male athletes. Were all submitted to anthropometric measurements and then were carried the calculations of body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), Skinfolds sum (Σ9DC) and somatotype. It was observed that goalkeepers differ significantly (p ≤ 0.05) in body mass, BF% and Σ9DC for other positions. The goalkeepers showed profile endomorph-mesomorph, the defender mesomorph- balanced, while the winger and pivot, endo-mesomorph. Concluded that the goalkeepers were significant differences in BF% when compared to other positions and showed significant differences in somatotype compared to other positions, the same was observed in defenders when compared with pivots. Resumen El objetivo del estudio fue determinar los perfiles somatotípicos y la composición corporal de los atletas de la selección brasileña de fútbol 5. Participaron en el estudio 23 atletas masculinos. Todos pasaron mediciones antropométricas y después se realizaron los cálculos del índice de masa corporal (IMC), porcentaje de grasa corporal (%GC), la suma de pliegues cutáneos (Σ9DC) y somatotipo. Los porteros difieren (p ≤ 0,05) en la MC, %BF y Σ9DC con relación a otras posiciones. Los porteros mostraron perfil mesomorfo-endomorfo, los defensas mostraron un perfil mesomorfo-equilibrado y laterales y pivotes, endomorfo-mesomorfo. Llegamos a la conclusión de que en los porteros se encontraron diferencias significativas en el %GC en comparación con otras posiciones y mostraron diferencias significativas en el somatotipo de otras posiciones. Lo mismo se observó en una posición fija en comparación con los pivotes.

Introduction: Football 5-a-side is a sport played by blind athletes that takes part in the Paralympic Games since 2004. The Brazilian national team is currently considered the best team in the world in this sport. Objective: To analyze the variations of intensity of effort (average per position and group average) made by blind athletes of the Brazilian football 5-a-side national team during six matches simulations. Methods: The sample on this research is the intentional type, made with eight blind male players, ages ranging from 21 to 30 years old (23.8 ± 3.3), all of them part of the Brazilian Football 5-a-side National team, which played in the 2012 Paralympics Games in England. In was evaluated the VO2máx and the heart rate during six simulations of official matches. Results: The intensity of effort of the blind athletes of the Brazilian Football 5-a-side National Team is intermittent and remains 52.5 % of the total time of a match (50 minutes) with an intensity of effort between the zone 2 (between threshold ventilation and respiratory compensation point) and the zone 3 (above the respiratory compensation point) averaging 89.8 % of the HR max. Conclusion: The intensity of effort is greater than the Football of 11 and, that in the Futsal players.

Greater than 75% of Low Grade Gliomas (LGG) harbor a mutation in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) and this molecular subgroup also exhibits mutations in TP53 and ATRX. Mutant IDH1 often recurs and presents with a more aggressive phenotype that is refractory to existing therapies. The production of an oncometabolite, 2-hydroxyglutarate by mutant IDH1 (mIDH1) has been shown to induce histone and DNA hypermethylation. Pharmacological inhibition of mIDH1 (AGI-5198) can restore expression of genes involved in neural differentiation. We hypothesize that mIDH1 remodels chromatin to promote a stem cell-like transcriptional state. Recent single cell RNA-seq data from primary mIDH1 astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma has identified an undifferentiated pool of tumor cells with a neural stem/progenitor transcriptional profile. We aim to identify unique regulatory networks in SF10602, a human primary glioma culture derived from a surgical biopsy, which endogenously expresses mIDH1.We treated SF10602 with AGI-5198 every 2 days for 1 week. We observed a global reduction in histone marks: H3K4me3, H3K36me3, and H3K27me3. This reversibility of histone hypermethylation has previously been described in mIDH1 tumor lines treated with mIDH1 inhibitors that block 2HG production. We confirmed that mIDH1 inhibition reduced 2HG levels by collecting condition media and performing liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. We performed a temporal micrococcal nuclease (Mnase) digestion to assess chromatin accessibility and we observed enhanced chromatin condensation following mIDH1 inhibition. To evaluate if the reversion of chromatin organization resulting from mIDH1 inhibition impacts neural differentiation pathways we performed RNA-seq. We identified 496 differentially up-regulated and 893 down-regulated genes (log2>+/-0.6) comparing SF10602 with/out AGI-5198. Following gene set enrichment analysis, we observed upregulation of pathways involved in epigenetic regulation, DNA conformation and neuronal development. Additionally, we observed downregulation of pathways involved in cell polarity and transcription factor activity. In future work, we will perform ChIP-seq to define enhancers and promoters that regulate stem cell-like characteristics. These findings will reveal novel genomic loci unique to mIDH1 glioma. SC is supported by the T32 Cancer Biology Training Grant, the work is supported by grants from NIH/NINDS to MGC and PRL. Citation Format: Stephen Carney, Brandon Zhu, Padma Kadiyala, Maria Garcia-Fabiani, Preethi Gorla, Felipe Nunez, Pedro R. Lowenstein, Maria G. Castro. Mutant IDH1 alters epigenetic regulation to promote stemness in low grade glioma: Deciphering signaling pathways altered by mIDH1 inhibition [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 1266.

External antiparasitic agents applied in bovine production represent a risk to consumers of meat products, especially if the conditions of their use are not strictly respected. The post-mortem control of residues in meat is an activity that must be updated and reinforced by the biomonitoring of live animals and the use of analytical tools to help identifying signs of early warning risks. The objective of the present study was to carry out a pre-slaughter biomonitoring approach in Aberdeen Angus cattle and crosses (n = 12) with the application of a commercial formulation of cypermethrin plus chlorpyrifos. This was performed with a single therapeutic dose applied on the backs of the cattle, through hematological, enzymatic, as well as hepatic and renal function analysis in plasma, and then quantifying the genotoxic effect on lymphocytes. Analytical measurements of plasma concentrations of cypermethrin plus chlorpyrifos at 24 h were negative and therefore a low absorption of the compounds was assumed. Measurement of acetyl cholinesterase showed no inhibition after exposure. The concentration of urea increased between 24 h and 168 h post application of the formulation, without showing any kidney damage. The rest of the parameters analyzed did not show any variations. This evaluation of hematological and biochemical effects and of cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay in bovines is proposed as a pre-slaughter control of biomonitoring of the health status of animals, with a focus on food safety for meat consumers.

Background: The Meningococcal Antigen Typing System (MATS) was developed to identify meningococcus group B strains with a high likelihood of being covered by the 4CMenB vaccine, but is limited by the requirement for viable isolates from culture-confirmed cases. We examined if antigen genotyping could complement MATS in predicting strain coverage by the 4CMenB vaccine. Methods: From a panel of 3912 MATS-typed invasive meningococcal disease isolates collected in England and Wales in 2007-2008, 2014-2015 and 2015-2016, and in 16 other countries in 2000-2015, 3481 isolates were also characterized by antigen genotyping. Individual associations between antigen genotypes and MATS coverage for each 4CMenB component were used to define a genetic MATS (gMATS). gMATS estimates were compared with England and Wales human complement serum bactericidal assay (hSBA) data and vaccine effectiveness (VE) data from England. Results: Overall, 81% of the strain panel had genetically predictable MATS coverage, with 92% accuracy and highly concordant results across national panels (Lin's accuracy coefficient, 0.98; root-mean-square deviation, 6%). England and Wales strain coverage estimates were 72-73% by genotyping (66-73% by MATS), underestimating hSBA values after four vaccine doses (88%) and VE after two doses (83%). The gMATS predicted strain coverage in other countries was 58-88%. Conclusions: gMATS can replace MATS in predicting 4CMenB strain coverage in four out of five cases, without requiring a cultivable isolate, and is open to further improvement. Both methods underestimated VE in England. Strain coverage predictions in other countries matched or exceeded England and Wales estimates. This work was supported by GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA,including all costs associated with the development and publishingof the manuscript. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Background Trypanosoma cruzi is a protozoan parasite that is transmitted by triatomine vectors to mammals. It is classified in six discrete typing units (DTUs). In Chile, domestic vectorial transmission has been interrupted; however, the parasite is maintained in non-domestic foci. The aim of this study was to describe T. cruzi infection and DTU composition in mammals and triatomines from several non-domestic populations of North-Central Chile and to evaluate their spatio-temporal variations. Methodology/Principal findings A total of 710 small mammals and 1140 triatomines captured in six localities during two study periods (summer/winter) of the same year were analyzed by conventional PCR to detect kDNA of T. cruzi. Positive samples were DNA blotted and hybridized with specific probes for detection of DTUs TcI, TcII, TcV, and TcVI. Infection status was modeled, and cluster analysis was performed in each locality. We detected 30.1% of overall infection in small mammals and 34.1% in triatomines, with higher rates in synanthropic mammals and in M. spinolai. We identified infecting DTUs in 45 mammals and 110 triatomines, present more commonly as single infections; the most frequent DTU detected was TcI. Differences in infection rates among species, localities and study periods were detected in small mammals, and between triatomine species; temporally, infection presented opposite patterns between mammals and triatomines. Infection clustering was frequent in vectors, and one locality exhibited half of the 21 clusters found. Conclusions/Significance We determined T. cruzi infection in natural host and vector populations simultaneously in a spatially widespread manner during two study periods. All captured species presented T. cruzi infection, showing spatial and temporal variations. Trypanosoma cruzi distribution can be clustered in space and time. These clusters may represent different spatial and temporal risks of transmission., Author summary Trypanosoma cruzi is a parasite that infects mammals, transmitted by triatomine insect vectors in America, causing Chagas disease in humans. There are six T. cruzi discrete typing units (DTUs). Our goal was to estimate T. cruzi infection rates and describe the DTUs present in mammals and triatomines of Chile, evaluating spatial and temporal variation. We captured nine small mammal and two triatomine species in six localities during two periods (summer/winter) of the same year. We detected T. cruzi DNA and some DTUs were identified. We report one mammal species infected for the first time. Infection presented significant variation among species. The endemic vector had higher infection rates than Triatoma infestans. The DTUs TcI, TcII, TcV and TcVI were present, with predominance of TcI. Temporally, we detected higher rates of infection during summer in small mammals and during winter in triatomines. Infection was spatially and temporally aggregated in small mammals and vectors. Some species might have higher risk of infection, and this may be different between localities or periods, or even within the same locality.

BackgroundVertical jumps can be used to assess neuromuscular status in sports performance. This is particularly important in Cerebral Palsy Football (CP Football) because players are exposed to high injury risk, but it may be complicated because the gold standard for assessing jump performance is scarce in field evaluation. Thus, field techniques, such as mobile apps, have been proposed as an alternative method for solving this problem. ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the reliability of the measures of the MyJump2 app to assess vertical jump performance in professional CP Football. MethodsWe assessed 40 male CP Football athletes (age 28.1 [SD 1.4] years, weight 72.5 [SD 6.2] kg, and height 176 [SD 4.2] cm) through the countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) using a contact mat. At the same time, we assessed the athletes using the MyJump2 app. ResultsThere were no significant differences between the instruments in SJ height (P=.12) and flight time (P=.15). Additionally, there were no significant differences between the instruments for CMJ in jump height (P=.16) and flight time (P=.13). In addition, it was observed that there were significant and strong intraclass correlations in all SJ variables varying from 0.86 to 0.89 (both P

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-03T17:31:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2019-10-04T16:20:29Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0100-29452019000400804.pdf: 457862 bytes, checksum: 5dff3a425b3aed1e0353607109899490 (MD5) ResumoA bananicultura possui destaque na produção agrícola brasileira. Este destaque é alcançado devido ao uso de tecnologias de cultivo e de adubação adequada feita através de recomendações de avaliação de análises foliares. Objetivou-se neste estudo determinar a sazonalidade do estado nutricional da folha diagnóstica, durante o desenvolvimento do cacho da bananeira. Os experimentos foram conduzidos no município de Sete Barras-SP, com as cultivares ‘Grande Naine’ e ‘Prata’, no verão e no inverno. Avaliou-se a influência da coleta da folha diagnóstica nas estações, em seis épocas, durante o desenvolvimento do cacho, e comparou-se com a amostragem-padrão. Os valores foram submetidos à análise de variância, e, quando o F foi significativo realizou-se comparação de médias. As estações de amostragem e os estádios de coleta influenciaram o comportamento dos nutrientes na folha diagnóstica de ambas as variedades, com exceções para o Mg e o Mn. Os teores médios dos nutrientes durante os estádios de coleta não apresentaram diferença entre o 1º, 2º, 3º e 4º (padrão). Assim, para as bananeiras ‘Prata’ e ‘Grande Naine’, cultivadas no Vale do Ribeira, não há alteração significativa no teor foliar de nutrientes entre os estádios 1o a 4o, possibilitando a ampliação de coleta para análise de tecido foliar. AbstractBanana farming has an important position in Brazilian agricultural production. This position was earned due to the use of cultivation technologies and adequate fertilization made through recommendations of evaluation of foliar analyzes. The objective of this study was to determine the seasonality of the nutritional status of the diagnostic leaf during the development of banana tree. The experiments took place in the city of Sete Barras / SP, with cultivars such as Grande naine and Prata, on summer and winter. It was evaluated the influence of the collection of the diagnostic leaf in the stations, in six seasons during the development of the banana bunch and it was compared with the standard sampling. The values were submitted to analysis of variance, and when the F was significant, a comparison of means was performed. The sampling stations and the collection stages influence the nutrient behavior in the diagnostic leaf of both varieties, with exceptions for Mg and Mn. The average levels of nutrients during the collection stages showed no difference among the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th (standard). Even for the ‘Prata’ and Grande Naine banana plants cultivated in the Ribeira Valley, there is no significant alteration in the nutrient content of the foliage among the 1st to 4th stages, allowing an increasing of collection for foliar tissue analysis. Universidade Federal do Paraná Universidade Estadual de São Paulo

The biological processes regulated by the essential response regulator MtrA and the growth conditions promoting its activation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow grower and pathogen, are largely unknown. Here, using a gain-of-function mutant, MtrAY 102C, which functions in the absence of the cognate MtrB sensor kinase, we show that the MtrA regulon includes several genes involved in the processes of cell division and cell wall metabolism. The expression of selected MtrA targets and intracellular MtrA levels were compromised under replication arrest induced by genetic manipulation and under stress conditions caused by toxic radicals. The loss of the mtrA gene in M. smegmatis, a rapid grower and non-pathogen, produced filamentous cells with branches and bulges, indicating defects in cell division and cell shape. The ΔmtrA mutant was sensitized to rifampicin and vancomycin and became more resistant to isoniazid, the first line antituberculosis drug. Our data are consistent with the proposal that MtrA controls the optimal cell division, cell wall integrity, and susceptibility to some antimycobacterial drugs.

Copy number variants (CNVs) are an important source of genomic structural variation, recognized to influence phenotypic variation in many species. Many studies have focused on identifying CNVs within and between human and livestock populations alike, but only few have explored population-genetic properties in cattle based on CNVs derived from a high-density SNP array. We report a high-resolution CNV scan using Illumina’s 777k BovineHD Beadchip for Valdostana Red Pied (VRP), an autochthonous Italian dual-purpose cattle population reared in the Alps that did not undergo strong selection for production traits. After stringent quality control and filtering, CNVs were called across 108 bulls using the PennCNV software. A total of 6,784 CNVs were identified, summarized to 1,723 CNV regions (CNVRs) on 29 autosomes covering a total of ~59 Mb of the UMD3.1 assembly. Among the mapped CNVRs, there were 812 losses, 832 gains and 79 complexes. We subsequently performed a comparison of CNVs detected in the VRP and those available from published studies in the Italian Brown Swiss (IBS) and Mexican Holstein (HOL). A total of 171 CNVRs were common to all three breeds. Between VRP and IBS, 474 regions overlapped, while only 313 overlapped between VRP and HOL, indicating a more similar genetic background among populations with common origins, i.e. the Alps. The principal component, clustering and admixture analyses showed a clear separation of the three breeds into three distinct clusters. In order to describe the distribution of CNVs within and among breeds we used the pair VST statistic, considering only the CNVRs shared to more than 5 individuals (within breed). We identified unique and highly differentiated CNVs (n = 33), some of which could be due to specific breed selection and adaptation. Genes and QTL within these regions were characterized.

Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) is a vector of the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, causative agent of Chagas disease. During the last decade, vector control activities have been systematically carried out in northwestern Argentina, an endemic region for this disease. The general aim of this study to evaluate was spatio-temporal variation of infestation by T. infestans in rural communities of Los Llanos in La Rioja province. We estimated house infestation using two sampling methods: passive and active. Passive collection was conducted with community participation collecting triatomines. Six passive collections were carried out in 397 houses during the warm season between 2014 and 2017. Active collection of T. infestans was thoroughly performed by trained staff for 60 minutes and was carried out once in March 2016. The estimate of intradomestic infestation did not show significant differences between both collection methods (p = 0.39). However, passive collection method had lower sensitivity than active collection method for the estimation of peridomestic infestation and intradomestic colonization (PDI: p< 0.01; ID colonization: p< 0.01). The results obtained with passive collection methods showed that the infestation in the study area was spatially heterogeneous and temporally variable. Intradomiciliary infestation decreased over time (14.4% to 7.9%, p