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In 2015, the failure of the Fundão dam in Mariana, Brazil released ~43 million m 3 of iron mining tailings into the environment. Despite restoration initiatives in the following years, few studies-and most focused on revegetation-have evaluated the effectiveness of the restoration process in areas impacted by the disaster. We aimed to evaluate the responses of the arthropod community in areas impacted by iron mining tailings deposition from the Fundão dam that is in the restoration process. We defined sampling units in the riparian zone of the Gualaxo do Norte River, which is under restoration, and in a native not impacted riparian zone. We collected soil arthropods using pitfall traps and sampled environmental variables in the same sites. We used generalize least squares models (GLS) to test if the restored areas already presented values of arthropod diversity and functional group abundance similar to the reference area and to test which environmental variables are influencing arthropod diversity. We also tested how large the differences of arthropod community composition between the study areas and used the index of indicator species (IndVal) to verify which species could be used as an indicator of reference or restoration areas. The diversity of arthropods and the functional groups of detritivores and omnivores were higher in the native riparian zone. Understory density, soil density, organic matter content, and microbial biomass carbon were the environmental variables that significantly explained the diversity and species composition of arthropods. We show that restoration areas still have different soil arthropod diversity values and community composition when compared to reference areas. Evaluating the response of the arthropod community to the restoration process and long-term monitoring are essential to achieve a satisfactory result in this process and achieve a self-sustaining ecosystem., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

The growing interest in wild birds as pets and the increasingly complex interspecific relationships due to human activities in wild environments underscore the need for better knowledge about the health of these animals. Salmonella stands out among the infectious agents of considerable importance to both animal and human health. The importance of these enterobacteria to the health of humans and livestock animals has long been known. In wild birds in countries such as Brazil, however, little is known regarding the frequency of infection and the main serotypes of occurrence. In the present study, the frequency of infection and the main serotypes of Salmonella spp. were investigated in 258 birds at a wild animal rehabilitation center using conventional microbiological methods and molecular diagnostic techniques. Four birds infected with Salmonella enterica were identified using PCR. The birds were of the species Brotogeris chiriri , Ara ararauna , and Eupsittula aurea . Sequencing of DNA revealed identity with the Javiana, Newport, and Arizonae serotypes. These results are of considerable importance to the implementation of management and control measures directed at human and animal health.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn. (Talinaceae), popularly known as "major gomes" and "erva gorda", is a non-conventional food plant extensively distributed throughout the Brazilian territory. In Brazilian folk medicine, this species is used as aphrodisiac, to treat gastrointestinal problems, and as a cardioprotective agent. However, there are no reports in the literature proving its cardiovascular effects., Aim: To perform a whole-ethnopharmacological investigation of the cardiorenal properties of the ethanol soluble fraction from T. paniculatum (ESTP) in Wistar rats., Material and Methods: First, plant samples were collected, properly identified and a morpho-anatomical characterization was carried out to provide quality control parameters. Then, ESTP was obtained and its chemical profile was determined by LC-DAD-MS. In addition, an acute toxicity assay was conducted in female Wistar rats in order to observe any toxic effects after one single administration. Finally, the diuretic and hypotensive potential of ESTP (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) were investigated in male rats followed by the evaluation of its possible effects on peripheral vascular resistance., Results: Chemical compounds identified from ESTP were chlorogenic acids, amino acids, nucleosides, O-glycosylated flavones and organic acids. No signs of toxicity as well as no changes in urine volume or electrolyte elimination were observed after ESTP acute treatment. On the other hand, prolonged treatment with all doses of ESTP significantly increased urine volume and electrolyte excretion (Na + , K + and Cl - ) without affecting blood pressure or heart rate. Apparently, these effects are involved with the activation of the small conductance calcium-activated potassium channels contributing to the increase of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate., Conclusion: Data presented show important information about the ethnomedicinal properties of T. paniculatum. In addition, the study presents the ESTP as a possible herbal medicine, especially when a sustained diuretic effect is required., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Mercury is a toxic element that becomes a problem when present at high concentrations in soils. Mercury toxicity in soils varies depending on chemical species, concentration, exposure routes, and organism vulnerability. There is little information regarding the toxicity of Hg in tropical soils, especially for establishing safe levels of this pollutant. The purpose of this study was to investigate Hg concentrations in two tropical soils and their effect on oats and common beans, as well as on soil biological attributes. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, following ISO 11.269-2 and OECD-208 guidelines. Oat and common bean were cultivated in a Typic Hapludox (TyHpx) and Rhodic Acrudox (RhAcx) contaminated with HgCl 2 at the following concentrations: 0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, 40.0, and 80.0 mg of Hg kg -1 of dry soil. The biological variables analyzed were seedling emergence, vegetative growth, chlorophyll content (SPAD index), gas exchange (photosynthetic rate, internal CO 2 concentration, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance), and Hg concentration and accumulation in shoot dry matter. Microbial biomass carbon, soil basal respiration, and metabolic quotient (qCO 2 ) were also analyzed. Due to the sorptive characteristics of TyHpx, it had higher Hg concentrations than RhAcx. Mercury showed toxic effects on both oat and common bean species. However, common bean was affected only at concentrations higher than 20 mg kg -1 . The microbial community showed high sensitivity to soil Hg concentrations, but external factors, such as the plant species cultivated, influenced the sensitivity of the community. The microbiota was most sensitive in pots with common bean, and this effect was more pronounced at low clay and low organic matter contents (TyHpx). In this study, the concentration of 0.36 mg kg -1 was critical for Hg in these soils, based on its deleterious effects on oat and common bean and on biological soil attributes., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Although leaves of Anchietea salutaris are used in Brazilian traditional medicine, there is no available data in the literature proving its efficacy and safety. Thus, the aim of the study was to perform a meticulous botanical, phytochemical, toxicological, and pharmacological investigation of A. salutaris in Wistar rats. At first, a morphoanatomical characterization of Anchietea pyrifolia leaves and stems was performed. Then, a purified infusion (ethanol-soluble fraction obtained from A. pyrifolia [ESAP]) was obtained followed by its chemical profile elucidation. Furthermore, an acute toxicity test was performed, and the acute and prolonged diuretic and hypotensive effects were also evaluated in Wistar rats. Finally, the vasodilatory responses of ESAP in mesenteric vascular beds were investigated. The main secondary metabolites identified from ESAP were O-glycosylated flavonoids, chlorogenic acids, and phenylpropanoic acid derivatives. ESAP did not promote any toxic effects in female rats nor increased urinary excretion in male rats after a single exposure. However, ESAP significantly reduced renal elimination of sodium, potassium, and chloride after prolonged treatment. An ESAP highest dose promoted significant acute hypotension without affecting blood pressure levels after prolonged use. Furthermore, its cardiovascular effects seem to be related with the calcium-activated potassium channel activation in resistance vessels.

Background: Luehea divaricata Mart. (Malvaceae) is an important medicinal species widely used by indigenous and riverside populations of the Brazilian Pantanal region. It has been shown that the several extracts obtained from leaves of this species have important cardioprotective effects. Nevertheless, the secondary metabolites responsible for this activity, as well as the molecular mechanisms responsible for their pharmacological effects remain unknown., Purpose: To carry out a biomonitoring study to identify possible active metabolites present in different ESLD fractions and evaluate the mechanisms responsible for the vasodilatory effects on isolated perfused mesenteric beds., Methods: First, ESLD was obtained from L. divaricata leaves and a liquid-liquid fractionation was performed. The resulting fractions were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Then, the possible vasodilatory effects of ESLD, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanolic and aqueous fractions on perfused arterial mesenteric vascular beds were evaluated. Finally, the molecular mechanisms involved in vasodilator responses of the aqueous fraction and its chemical component, isovitexin, on the mesenteric arteriolar tone were also investigated., Results: In preparations with functional endothelium ESLD, n-butanolic, aqueous fraction and isovitexin dose-dependently reduced the perfusion pressure in mesenteric vascular beds. Endothelium removal or inhibition of nitric oxide synthase enzymes by L-NAME reduced the vasodilatory effects induced by aqueous fraction and isovitexin. Perfusion with nutritive solution containing 40 mM KCl abolished the vasodilatory effect of all aqueous fractions and Isovitexin doses. Treatment with glibenclamide, a Kir6.1 (ATP-sensitive) potassium channels blocker, tetraethylammonium, a non-selective KCa (calcium-activated) potassium channels blocker, or apamin, a potent blocker of small conductance Ca 2+ -activated (SK KCa) potassium channels reduced by around 70% vasodilation induced by all aqueous fractions and isovitexin doses. In addition, association of tetraethylammonium and glibenclamide, or L-NAME and glibenclamide, fully inhibited aqueous fraction and Isovitexin -induced vasodilation., Conclusion: This study showed that AqueFr obtained from Luehea divaricata and its metabolite - isovitexin - has important vasodilatory effects on MVBs. Apparently, these effects are dependent on endothelium-NO release and both SK KCa K + channels and Kir6.1 ATP-sensitive K + channels activation in the vascular smooth muscle., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Introduction:: Despite being considered as a contravention under some countries' legislation, the therapeutic use of Cannabis sativa has been growing in Brazil, due to the promising results observed in many pathologies. Such a scenario has fostered the need to deepen discussions on the subject and possibly revise legislation governing the substance use and access., Objectives:: Identify the types of stigma related to the therapeutic use of Cannabis and describe the strategies people use to overcome stigma., Methods:: This integrative review was carried out in the databases PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, with 565 articles being retrieved. Triads' cross-check were done, first maintaining the "cannabis" and "therapeutic use" pair, added by "stigma," "bioethics," "ethics," "social consequences," and "legal consequences." The final selection resulted in six articles., Ethical Consideration:: However, the ethical issues that pervade and regulate decisions on this subject must be considered., Results:: Different dimensions and types of stigma related to the therapeutic use of Cannabis have been identified. The bioethical principle of autonomy was an expression of citizenship and human rights, mitigating internal conflicts related to self-stigma and the effects of external stigma on the person's life., Conclusion:: It was possible to identify the types of stigma related to the therapeutic use of Cannabis is an internal dimension represented (self-stigma) and an external dimension, represented (social and structural stigmas) and to identify strategies adopted to face this stigma: skills training group for users, elaboration of laws and specific programs to clarify the therapeutic use of Cannabis with a greater social scope, and support for family members. Thus, contributing to the building of people's autonomy in a broader context of decision-making autonomy and executive autonomy will provide the development of people's capacity to perform complex tasks of self-management and, consequently, to continue promoting and preserving their decision-making process and their capacity to plan and perform tasks associated with managing their lives and their treatments.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Celosia argentea L. (Amaranthaceae), popularly known as "crista de galo", is used in folk medicine due to its diuretic and hypotensive effects. However, there are no reports in the literature regarding its pharmacological effects on the cardiovascular system as well as no data proving the safety of this species., Aim: To perform a detailed ethnopharmacological investigation of the ethanol soluble fraction from C. argentea (ESCA) using male and female Wistar rats., Material and Methods: Firstly, a morpho-anatomical characterization was performed to determine the quality control parameters for the identification of the species under investigation. Then, the ethanol extract was obtained and chemically characterized by LC-DAD-MS. Furthermore, an oral acute toxicity study was performed in female Wistar rats. Finally, the possible diuretic and hypotensive effects of three different doses of ESCA (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) were evaluated in male Wistar rats. Besides, the vasodilatory response of ESCA in mesenteric vascular beds (MVBs) and its involvement with nitric oxide/cGMP and prostaglandin/cAMP pathways as well as potassium channels were evaluated., Results: The main secondary metabolites present in ESCA were phenolic compounds, megastigmanes and triterpenoid saponins. ESCA caused no toxic effects in female rats nor increased urinary excretion in male rats after acute administration. However, ESCA significantly increased the renal elimination of potassium and chloride, especially at the end of 24 h after administration. Intermediary dose (100 mg/kg) of ESCA was able to promote significant acute hypotension and bradycardia. Moreover, its cardiovascular effects appear to be involved with the voltage-dependent K + channels activation in MVBs., Conclusion: This study has brought new scientific evidence of preclinical efficacy of C. argentea as a hypotensive agent in normotensive rats. Apparently, these effects are involved with the activation of the voltage-sensitive K + channels contributing to the reduction of peripheral vascular resistance and cardiac output., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Mercury is a metal which is potentially toxic for the environment. Many factors control its retention in the soil, such as cation exchange capacity, pH, clay content, organic matter, and redox potential. It is important to know the phytotoxic effects of soil Hg to prevent environmental contamination and its entry into the food chain. Several analytical methods are used to measure metal phytoavailability in soils, but none has been reported for Hg in Oxisols, the most common soil class in Brazil and a very important soil class throughout the tropics. The aim of this study was to select the chemical extractor that best correlated the Hg levels in plants and the Oxisols. The soils used were classified as Dystrophic Red-Yellow Oxisol (LVAd) and Dystroferric Red Oxisol (LVdf), which were collected in the 0-0.2-m soil layer. The species selected for cultivation were a monocotyledon, oat (Avena sativa L. cv. São Carlos) and a eudicotyledon, common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Madrepérola). Each test plot was composed of a 500 cm 3 pot filled with soil samples contaminated with HgCl 2 . Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design, with four replications. The experiment was conducted for 30 days. Mercury contents were separately extracted with the following extractors: USEPA 3051A, Mehlich-1, Mehlich-3, DTPA, and water. Mercury was determined by hydride generation atomic absorption spectroscopy. The extracted contents were correlated with the contents in the tissues of the plants' aerial part by the Pearson correlation. Although it is not considered a standard procedure to evaluate metal phytoavailable contents, the method that presented the best correlations between soil Hg and plant Hg was USEPA 3051A (r = 0.75*). As expected, the worst correlation was with water (r = 0.57* for common bean and r = 0,05 ns for oat).

Talisia esculenta (A. St.-Hil.) Radlk. is a large tree belonging to family Sapindaceae and popularly known as "pitombeira" or "pitomba." Although species have relevant economic and medicinal uses in Brazil, no study has investigated its effectiveness as a diuretic, hypotensive, and antihypertensive agent. The aim of this study was to present a detailed anatomical and histochemical study for T. esculenta and provide important safety and efficacy parameters. After morpho-anatomical and microchemical study, a purified aqueous extract (ethanol soluble fraction obtained from T. esculenta [ESTE]) was obtained, and detailed phytochemical investigation was performed. Subsequently, acute oral toxicity test was performed in male and female rats. Moreover, diuretic, hypotensive, and antihypertensive effects on normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were investigated. Finally, the effects of prolonged treatment with ESTE on serum levels of nitrite, thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and nitrotyrosine were also measured in SHR. Oral treatment with ESTE did not induce acute toxic effects and did not affect urine production, blood pressure, or heart rate of normotensive and SHR. Prolonged treatment with ESTE was able to increase serum nitrite levels and significantly reduce oxidative and nitrosative stress markers in SHR. Data obtained showed that ESTE has a significant antioxidant activity without showing any clinical signs of acute toxicity. The use of this species as a diuretic, hypotensive, or antihypertensive agent should be carried out with caution, since administration in rodents did not produce renal and/or hemodynamic responses that justify this indication.

Objective: to compare the frailty syndrome among elderly people living at home in two Brazilian cities and to identify factors related to sociodemographic and health-related variables., Method: population-based cross-sectional study with 480 elderly individuals from the cities of Ribeirão Preto/SP and João Pessoa/PB, with application of the Mini Mental State Examination instruments and the Edmonton Frailty, Geriatric Depression and Lawton and Brody scales. Descriptive analysis, Chi-square test, Fisher's test, Student's t-test, Spermann's correlation and Logistic regression were used. In all analyzes, the level of significance was set at p≤0.05., Results: in relation to frailty, it was verified that living in Ribeirão Preto, presenting advanced age, low schooling, multiple chronic diseases, reduced cognitive status and functional capacity, besides depressive symptoms, are factors associated with the frailty syndrome, in both cities., Conclusion: we identified that the frailty syndrome in the elderly of both cities has a relation with the place where the elderly person lives, age, schooling, number of diseases, reduction of cognitive status, functional capacity and presence of symptoms depressive.

Objective: To identify the knowledge of professionals about assistive technology and its importance in the elderly's life., Method: Exploratory descriptive qualitative study performed with professionals working in three community groups in the city of Cajazeiras (state of Paraíba/PB). Data were collected through an interview with semi-structured script and analyzed according to the Content Analysis Technique., Results: Participation of 45 professionals. Four categories were identified, namely: Knowledge about assistive technology; Professionals' lack of knowledge about available assistive technologies for implementation in work with the elderly; Use of assistive technology by the elderly; Impact on professional practices after implementation of assistive technology., Conclusion: Some of professionals have knowledge about assistive technology and others make a wrong interpretation by confusing it with working instruments. In spite of the positive impact of assistive technology on certain professionals' practice, there is need for training in order to provide a better use of assistive technologies by the elderly.

Objective: To elicit the social representations of the elderly regarding integrative community therapy (ICT)., Method: This is an exploratory study conducted with 273 elderly people in a municipality of northeastern Brazil, in 2014. It is based on the theory of social representations and the free-association test for the inductor term "integrative community therapy". The data were processed using EVOC software and examined with the structural approach of social representations, followed by a similarity analysis and confrontation with literature., Results: The organisation and meaning of the representations of ICT chiefly occurred through the core element: Group., Conclusion: The analysis revealed that the ICT is a support network for the elderly, where they feel they belong to a group and feel empowered through participation in the sessions.

This study aimed to assess the variation over time in thermal comfort indices and the behavior of physiological parameters related to thermolysis, blood parameters, and semen in natura of buffalo bulls reared in tropical climate. The study was carried out in an artificial insemination station under a humid tropical climate (Afi according to Köppen). Ten water buffalo bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were used during the 5 months (April to August) of study. The environmental Temperature Humidity Index (THId) and the pen microclimate Temperature Humidity Index (THIp) were calculated. Every 25 days, respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), rectal temperature (RT), and Benezra's thermal comfort index (BTCI) were assessed in the morning and in the afternoon. A blood assay was performed every month, while semen was collected weekly. THIp did not vary over the months (P > 0.05) and was higher in the afternoon than in the morning (77.7 ± 2.6 versus 81.8 ± 2.1, P < 0.05). RR, HR, and BTCI significantly increased over the months and were different between the periods of the day (P > 0.05) but within the physiological limits. RT varied between the periods of the day and decreased over the months, being the lowest in August (37.8 ± 0.7 °C), time-impacted hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, hemoglobin levels, and spermatic gross motility and vigor (P < 0.05). Thus, buffalo bulls reared under a humid tropical climate may have variations in thermal comfort during the hotter periods but are able to efficiently activate thermoregulatory mechanisms and maintain homeothermy, hence preserving their physiological and seminal parameters at normal levels.

Cadmium (Cd) is a trace element that is very toxic to fish. It is commonly found in surface waters contaminated with industrial effluents. When dissolved in water, Cd can rapidly cause physiological changes in the gills and kidneys of freshwater fish. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of Cd on the osmoregulation of the Neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus. Juvenile fish were exposed to Cd at two concentrations [1 (Cd1) and 10 (Cd10) μgL(-1)] for 24 and 96h. The effects of Cd were evaluated through the analysis of ions (Na(+), K(+), Ca(2+), and Cl(-)) and plasma osmolality, and by measuring the activities of enzymes involved in osmoregulation obtained from the gills and kidney. Fish exposed to Cd for 24 and 96h showed a decrease in Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity in the gills and kidney. The activity of carbonic anhydrase decreased in the gills after 24h and in both tissues after 96h of Cd exposure. The gill Ca(2+)-ATPase activity also decreased with Cd exposure, with a concomitant drop in the plasma concentration of Ca(2+). Despite the hypocalcemia, there were no changes in the concentration of the ions Na(+), K(+), and Cl(-) or in plasma osmolality. Among the enzymes involved in ion transport, H(+)-ATPase was the only enzyme that showed increased activity in gills, whereas its activity in kidney remained unchanged. The results of this study demonstrate that waterborne Cd at the maximum concentrations set by Brazilian guidelines for freshwater affects the gills and kidney functions of P. lineatus. Acute exposure to Cd resulted in the decrease of the activity of enzymes, which culminated with the loss of the fish's ability to regulate the levels of calcium in the blood, leading to hypocalcemia., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Macrosiphonia longiflora (Desf.) Müll. Arg (Apocynaceae), popularly known as 'velame' and 'velame branco', is a native subshrub that grows in the Brazilian Cerrado. This plant is widely used in traditional medicine in the form of decoction and infusion, particularly as anti-inflammatory, depurative, anti-rheumatic, antisyphilitic and antiulcer remedy. There is no available information in the literature that has addressed its pharmacological activity and phytochemical analysis., Aim of the Study: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory pharmacological profile of the hydroethanolic extract of Macrosiphonia longiflora, using in vivo and in vitro acute inflammation experimental models, as well as investigate the roles of cytokines and nitric oxide in its mechanism of action, and including phytochemical analysis constitution of its hydroethanolic extract., Materials and Methods: Hydroethanolic (70%) extract of Macrosiphonia longiflora (HEMl) was prepared by maceration. The preliminary phytochemical analysis was performed according to procedures described in the literature. Selected secondary metabolites detected were quantified by spectrophotometry and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Its cytotoxic potential in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-k1) epithelial cell lines was evaluated using Alamar Blue. in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated with carrageenan- and dextran-induced paw edemas, carrageenan-induced pleurisy in rats and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peritonitis in mice. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with LPS and interferon (INF)-γ. Effects of HEMl on the inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-10, IL-17, INF-γ and TNF-α) concentrations in the peritoneal lavage were evaluated using commercial ELISA kits, while the Griess method was employed to determine nitric oxide (NO) concentrations in the peritoneal lavage, as well as in the supernatants of RAW 264.7 cells., Results: Preliminary phytochemical analysis, revealed the presence of phenolics compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids and flavonoids. Spectrophotometric analysis revealed the presence of relatively high content of phenolics and flavonoids in HEMl. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of the quantified compounds and demonstrated the presence of ellagic acid in the detected matrix of compounds. HEMl appeared to be non-cytotoxic. It effectively inhibited (p<0.05) paw edema induced by carrageenan and dextran. Furthermore, HEMl also significantly reduced exudates volume and leukocyte migration in the carrageenan-induced pleurisy and LPS-induced peritonitis, neutrophils counts in LPS-induced peritonitis. HEMl also acts by effectively inhibiting the following inflammatory cytokines: IL-1β and IL-10 levels in the peritoneal lavage, but had no effect on IL-17 level in the peritonitis model. In addition, HEMl had no effect on the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) present in the peritoneal lavage and cells supernatants. The concentration of NO, as assessed by measurement of nitrite (NO2(-)), showed that pretreatment with HEMl reduced NO significantly in the peritoneal lavage and in RAW 264.7 cells co-stimulated with LPS and INF-γ., Conclusion: The results obtained in this study indicate that HEMl possesses very low cytotoxic potential. In addition, it demonstrated a potent anti-inflammatory activity in both the in vivo and in vitro models of acute inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effect is partly related to the inhibition of IL-1β, IL-10, and nitric oxide releases, but independent of TNF-α and IL-17 modulation. Phytochemical analysis revealed the predominant presence of the flavonoids (naringin, rutin, myricetin, morin, quercetin, (±)-naringenin, and luteolin) and phenols (ellagic acid), which are possibly involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of HEMl. The current study provided supportive evidence for the popular use of HEMl in the treatment of inflammatory conditions, and shed more light on the possible roles of the inflammatory cytokines in its mechanisms of action as anti-inflammatory agent., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To analyze the discourse of speech language pathologists regarding the practice developed at Family Health Support Centers (FHSC) based on the concepts of center and field in Collective Health., Methods: A qualitative investigation was conducted between April 2011 and June 2011 with 12 speech language pathologists working at the FHSCs of different municipalities of Paraíba. The empirical material was obtained by means of semi-directed interviews and analyzed through the French Discourse Analysis., Results: Regarding the work of speech language pathologists, the curative perspective prevails, exercised through individual rehabilitation initiatives. Health promotion activities are focused on education and aimed at changing the behavior of individuals and specific groups through lectures and group formation. We verified difficulties to develop teamwork and problems of interaction among the professionals at the various FHSCs. These difficulties disregard the guidelines of the Ministry of Health in relation to the organization of work processes. The participants charged the managers with lack of knowledge about their jobs and remained silent about intersectoral actions and the empowerment of the population, which are consistent with the modern concept of health promotion., Conclusion: The work of speech language pathologists at FHSCs in the municipalities of Paraíba has been revealed from a nuclear perspective. In order for it to be effective from the perspective of Collective Health, the barriers that prevent the intersection between center and field must be analyzed.

Actions aimed at health promotion and disease prevention must prioritize the entry point to the health system. In this sense, it is proposed that Community Therapy (CT) be inserted as a mental health care tool in Primary Care. The purpose of this study is to assess user satisfaction with CT in Primary Care. It is assessment, cross-sectional study with a representative sample of users of CT services in Primary Care in the municipality of João Pessoa, Paraiba, Brazil. Of the 198 interviewees, 165 (83.3%) of the sample reported that they were always respected, evidenced by aspects of respect and dignity; 109 (55.1%) individuals stated they were listened to, revealing internal consistency of 0.7187, and in turn, exhibiting the true validity of the user satisfaction construct with respect to CT. Thus, users displayed positive satisfaction, reflected by respect, dignity, receptiveness, resolution, listening and comprehension received at CT, where empathy is exhibited and mental suffering is relieved. Moreover, CT is an important mental health tool in primary care.

This study aimed at determining the social representations on health and immigrants constructed by Brazilians. Samples consisted of one hundred Brazilian male and female immigrants living in Lisbon, Portugal. The technique of free evocation, which uses as inductive words "health "and "immigrant", were used for data collection. Data were submitted to analyses using the software EVOC (Ensemble de Programmes Permettant L'analyse des Evocations). We detected the presence of the psycho-affective and social-interaction dimensions as to health, whereas as to "immigrant", individuals related it to a difficult experience that generates pain, prejudice, and homesickness, where the love for the family are the reason to immigrate to obtain better life conditions.

The study aimed at learning the social representations of the legal implications of hospital infections (HI) and analyze how these representations are articulated with the quality of work developed by the health and law professionals. The data were produced through interviews and processed by software Alceste4.8. The descendant hierarchical analysis showed 04 classes of words, that objected the legal implications of HI, anchored in the ideological, historical and socio-cultural aspects, in the rights that the health user has not run risks, resulting of occurences caused by negligence of involved in the process having to be fiscalized by the competent organs in order the responsibles answer civily and penaltily, miscase or miscare in hospital assistance.

The frequency of infectious agents for vaginitis has shown varying results. Bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis are infections related to vaginal pH alteration. Vaginal pH is related to endocervical pH in pre- and post-menopaused women, and vaginal pH in hysterectomized women is more acidic than in non-hysterectomized women. The aim of this paper is to verify differences in Papanicolaou smear diagnoses of infectious agents in hysterectomized women. A retrospective study was conducted at Faculdade de Medicina do Triângulo Mineiro (public tertiary referral centre). A total of 1,579 Papanicolaou reports for each group (hysterectomized and non-hysterectomized) was analysed. Clue cells, Candida sp., Trichomonas vaginalis, cytolysis, coccobacilli and lactobacilli were diagnosed by cytological criteria (Papanicolaou's method), statistical methods: the chi2 test and linear regression (significance level < 0.05). Clue cells decrease with the age in both the groups and are more frequent in non-hysterectomized women with > 59 years. There is an increased frequency of Coccobacilli and a decrease of lactobacillus as the age of women increases. The frequency of T. vaginalis is not influenced by hysterectomy but there is a decreased frequency between 40 years and 49 years old. Cytolysis was more frequent in women below 40 years old and between 50 years and 59 years old in both groups (P < 0.009). Candida sp. is a less common finding between 40 years and 49 years old in both groups and more frequent in hysterectomized women with > 60 years old (P = 0.002). Our results showed that the presence of infectious agents for vaginitis in Papanicolaou findings is associated with age. The frequency of finding of Candida sp. in women above 60 years old may be influenced by hysterectomy.

Brazil is a country of continental dimension with a population of different ethnic backgrounds. Thus, a wide variation in the frequencies of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes is expected to occur. To address this point, 1,688 sequential samples from chronic HCV patients were analyzed. HCV-RNA was amplified by the RT-PCR from blood samples collected from 1995 to 2000 at different laboratories located in different cities from all Brazilian States. Samples were collected in tubes containing a gel separator, centrifuged in the site of collection and sent by express mail in a refrigerated container to Laboratório Bioquímico Jardim Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. HCV-RNA was extracted from serum and submitted to RT and nested PCR using standard procedures. Nested PCR products were submitted to cycle sequencing reactions without prior purification. Sequences were analyzed for genotype determination and the following frequencies were found: 64.9% (1,095) for genotype 1, 4.6% (78) for genotype 2, 30.2% (510) for genotype 3, 0.2% (3) for genotype 4, and 0.1% (2) for genotype 5. The frequencies of HCV genotypes were statistically different among Brazilian regions (P = 0.00017). In all regions, genotype 1 was the most frequent (51.7 to 74.1%), reaching the highest value in the North; genotype 2 was more prevalent in the Center-West region (11.4%), especially in Mato Grosso State (25.8%), while genotype 3 was more common in the South (43.2%). Genotypes 4 and 5 were rarely found and only in the Southeast, in São Paulo State. The present data indicate the need for careful epidemiological surveys throughout Brazil since knowing the frequency and distribution of the genotypes would provide key information for understanding the spread of HCV.

This study aims at identifying the most meaningful characters in the social imaginary and narrating its experience. This is a social-historical study in which oral (semi-structured interviews) and written documental sources were used. The interpretation of data was based on the archeological studies by Foucault on the history of madness and on other authors who worked with the themes: psychiatric madness and psychiatric reform. The narration of madness in the scenery of Crato indicates the existence of a multiplicity that reveals diversity, transcending the traditional psychiatric paradigm, which has as its principle the idea that the "mad person" should be isolated from society. We expect that this study contribute to the debate of nursing professional in the field of psychiatric and mental health.

Black carbon, charcoal and mercury fluxes were measured from sediment cores taken in an artificial water dam in an intense land use change area in the Alta Floresta district in the Brazilian Amazon, in order to characterize the differences in the evolution of human occupation patterns in the region during the last 18 years. A positive correlation between the black carbon and charcoal particle fluxes and the evolution of the Brazilian gross domestic production (GDP) was observed. Mercury fluxes showed a positive correlation with gold production and exhibited a distinct evolution pattern when compared to in relation to the forest fires indicators and Brazilian GDP. The fluxes of forest fires markers showed an increase in deforestation activities in the region after 1993. Mercury deposition showed a substantial decrease after 1994. The patterns of distribution in both forest fires tracers and gold mining tracers indicate substitution of the regional economic model. It also marked different antropogenic impact type in the ecosystem.

The prevalence of GB virus C (GBV-C) in candidate Brazilian blood donors with normal and elevated alanine aminotransferase levels was found to be 5.2% (5 of 95) and 6.5% (5 of 76), respectively. Among Brazilian patients, GBV-C was found in 9.5% (13 of 137) of cases of hepatitis not caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV), HBV, HCV, HDV, or HEV (non-A-E hepatitis) and in 18.2% (8 of 44) of individuals infected with HCV. Molecular characterization of GBV-C by partial sequencing of the NS3 region showed clustering between members of a single family, implying intrafamilial transmission. In conclusion, these results together suggest that contagion mechanisms which facilitate intrafamilial transmission of GBV-C may partially explain the high prevalence of viremic carriers worldwide.