Search

Este estudo observacional transversal teve como objetivo investigar a frequência, fatores associados e avaliar as alterações hematológicas e bioquímicas da infecção por E. canis em 396 cães saudáveis e domiciliados do município de Porto Seguro, Bahia. Além da coleta de amostras de sangue, foram obtidas informações adicionais sobre características intrínsecas e extrínsecas dos cães por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas com seus tutores, a fim de identificar os fatores associados à infecção. Foi realizada a extração de DNA das amostras de sangue e pesquisa de E. canis pela técnica de nested PCR. A frequência de E. canis encontrada foi de 30,8% (122/396). Observou-se que a trombocitopenia (p

Gossypol is a terpene-polyphenolic compound specific to cotton plants. Considered as an anti-nutritional factor, monogastric livestock show greater sensitivity to this metabolite than ruminants. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the toxicological effects of gossypol-containing and biodetoxified cottonseed-cake on hepatic function in rats. Biodetoxification of cottonseed cake was performed by the macrofungi Fistulina hepatica BRM 047114 and Pleurotus ostreatus BRM 055505 in a solid-state cultivation process. A toxicological study was performed using albino Wistar rat males (Rattus norvergicus). A feed assay was conducted using the macrofungi cultivated on cottonseed cake (5%, 15%, and 25%). Animal growth, feed conversion, hemogram, serum biochemical analyses and histopathology were evaluated. For biodetoxified cottonseed cake treatments with both macrofungi, concentrations of feed up to 15% resulted in animal development similar to that of the untreated group. Histopathological analysis after feeding with biodetoxified cottonseed cake presented an unaltered cordonal arrangement. Nevertheless, the group fed with cottonseed cake biodetoxified using F. hepatica BRM 047114 showed discrete inflammatory infiltrate, vacuolization, and pyknotic nuclei in hepatocytes. P. ostreatus BRM 055505 resulted in efficient reduction in toxic effects of free gossypol, with regular animal growth, maintenance of normal liver activities, and a reduction in circulating cholesterol levels. In conclusion, P. ostreatus and F. hepatica were able to minimize the toxic effects of free gossypol in rat diets, representing an important contribution for feed-formulation development for non-ruminants.

Abstract Immunization with the Amastigote Surface Protein-2 (ASP-2) and Trans-sialidase (TS) antigens either in the form of recombinant protein, encoded in plasmids or human adenovirus 5 (hAd5) confers robust protection against various lineages of Trypanosoma cruzi. Herein we generated a chimeric protein containing the most immunogenic regions for T and B cells from TS and ASP-2 (TRASP) and evaluated its immunogenicity in comparison with our standard protocol of heterologous prime-boost using plasmids and hAd5. Mice immunized with TRASP protein associated to Poly-ICLC (Hiltonol) were highly resistant to challenge with T. cruzi, showing a large decrease in tissue parasitism, parasitemia and no lethality. This protection lasted for at least 3 months after the last boost of immunization, being equivalent to the protection induced by DNA/hAd5 protocol. TRASP induced high levels of T. cruzi-specific antibodies and IFNγ-producing T cells and protection was primarily mediated by CD8+ T cells and IFN-γ. We also evaluated the toxicity, immunogenicity, and efficacy of TRASP and DNA/hAd5 formulations in dogs. Mild collateral effects were detected at the site of vaccine inoculation. While the chimeric protein associated with Poly-ICLC induced high levels of antibodies and CD4+ T cell responses, the DNA/hAd5 induced no antibodies, but a strong CD8+ T cell response. Immunization with either vaccine protected dogs against challenge with T. cruzi. Despite the similar efficacy, we conclude that moving ahead with TRASP together with Hiltonol is advantageous over the DNA/hAd5 vaccine due to pre-existing immunity to the adenovirus vector, as well as the cost-benefit for development and large-scale production.

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de discutir aspectos da produção do chamado jornalismo contextual articulado à noção de memória, a fim de compreender como esta é acionada na construção dos conteúdos jornalísticos que buscam oferecer, em uma perspectiva de contextualização, melhores circunstâncias de compreensão dos fatos e informações abordados. Para tal, toma-se como objetos de análise reportagens dos portais Nexo Jornal e do UOL Tab. Um primeiro entendimento propiciado por tal abordagem é de que a memória pode se fazer presente no jornalismo de diferentes modos, destacando aqui como esta, no acionamento de fatos e circunstâncias do passado, pode jogar luzes no presente da vida cotidiana. O jornalismo, por assim dizer, se vale da memória ao mesmo tempo em que contribui para configurá-la.

Protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection involves T cell and B cell responses but only studying one or the other has proved difficult. Here the authors immunise with a fusion protein construct of N and RBD proteins from SARS-CoV-2 and find that this promotes protection in animal models preferentially via T cells.

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar o desfecho obstétrico de gestantes nulíparas pertencentes aos grupos 1 e 2 da Classificação de Robson (CR), atendidas em uma maternidade de grande porte de Porto Alegre/RS. Método: Foi um estudo quantitativo, com abordagem transversal e descritiva com população constituída de 478 parturientes que tiveram seu parto vaginal ou cesárea assistidos no hospital no período de 01/07/2018 a 01/01/2019. Resultados: Nos resultados, observou-se que 82,9% das gestantes incluídas no Grupo 1 tiveram parto vaginal, já as incluídas no grupo 2, a maioria (57,3%) tiveram cesariana como desfecho obstétrico. Conclusões: O estudo apontou uma porcentagem elevada de cesarianas em nulíparas, evidenciando a necessidade de melhoria nas estratégias para reduzir cada vez mais este índice, principalmente para as mulheres que estão parindo pela primeira vez.

SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic tests have become an important tool for pandemic control. Among the alternatives for COVID-19 diagnosis, antigen rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDT) are very convenient and widely used. However, as SARS-CoV-2 variants may continuously emerge, the replacement of tests and reagents may be required to maintain the sensitivity of Ag-RDTs. Here, we describe the development and validation of an Ag-RDT during an outbreak of the Omicron variant, including the characterization of a new monoclonal antibody (anti-DTC-N 1B3 mAb) that recognizes the Nucleocapsid protein (N). The anti-DTC-N 1B3 mAb recognized the sequence TFPPTEPKKDKKK located at the C-terminus of the N protein of main SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Accordingly, the Ag-RDT prototypes using the anti-DTC-N 1B3 mAB detected all the SARS-CoV-2 variants—Wuhan, Alpha, Gamma, Delta, P2 and Omicron. The performance of the best prototype (sensitivity of 95.2% for samples with Ct ≤ 25; specificity of 98.3% and overall accuracy of 85.0%) met the WHO recommendations. Moreover, results from a patients’ follow-up study indicated that, if performed within the first three days after onset of symptoms, the Ag-RDT displayed 100% sensitivity. Thus, the new mAb and the Ag-RDT developed herein may constitute alternative tools for COVID-19 point-of-care diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by parasites belonging to the Leishmania genus for which there is no vaccine available for human use. Thus, the aims of this study are to evaluate the immunoprotective effect of a first-generation vaccine against L. amazonensis and to identify its immunodominant antigens. BALB/c mice were inoculated with phosphate buffer sodium (PBS), total L. amazonensis antigens (TLAs), or TLA with Poly (I:C) and Montanide ISA 763. The humoral and cellular immune response was evaluated before infection. IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a were measured on serum, and IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-10 cytokines as well as cell proliferation were measured on a splenocyte culture from vaccinated mice. Immunized mice were challenged with 104 infective parasites of L. amazonensis on the footpad. After infection, the protection provided by the vaccine was analyzed by measuring lesion size, splenic index, and parasite load on the footpad and spleen. To identify immunodominant antigens, total proteins of L. amazonensis were separated on 2D electrophoresis gel and transferred to a membrane that was incubated with serum from immunoprotected mice. The antigens recognized by the serum were analyzed through a mass spectrometric assay (LC-MS/MS-IT-TOF) to identify their protein sequence, which was subjected to bioinformatic analysis. The first-generation vaccine induced higher levels of antibodies, cytokines, and cell proliferation than the controls after the second dose. Mice vaccinated with TLA + Poly (I:C) + Montanide ISA 763 showed less footpad swelling, a lower splenic index, and a lower parasite load than the control groups (PBS and TLA). Four immunodominant proteins were identified by mass spectrometry: cytosolic tryparedoxin peroxidase, an uncharacterized protein, a kinetoplast-associated protein-like protein, and a putative heat-shock protein DNAJ. The identified proteins showed high levels of conserved sequence among species belonging to the Leishmania genus and the Trypanosomatidae family. These proteins also proved to be phylogenetically divergent to human and canine proteins. TLA + Poly (I:C) + Montanide ISA 763 could be used as a first-generation vaccine against leishmaniasis. The four proteins identified from the whole-protein vaccine could be good antigen candidates to develop a new-generation vaccine against leishmaniasis.

Objetivo: analisar, a partir da literatura, os principais fatores de risco de sepse neonatal, as principais manifestações clínicas e a antibioticoterapia mais prevalente. Materiais e Métodos: a metodologia da revisão integrativa foi seguida por critérios, foram incluídos prematuros que tinham sepse. Dos revisores independentes foram realizadas extração e síntese dos dados obtidos através da base de dados escolhida. A presente revisão integrativa teve como amostra final onze artigos científicos, que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão previamente estabelecidos. Os artigos foram selecionados e analisados na base de dados PubMed. Resultados: a partir dos artigos selecionados, foram construídas categorias de acordo com a problemática levantada para este estudo, que são: Fatores de risco para a sepse neonatal em uma UTI; Manifestações clínicas mais comuns; Processo de tratamento da sepse: medicamentos utilizados (antibióticos). Conclusão: portanto, conclui-se que a identificação dos fatores de riscos, as manifestações clínicas e o processo de tratamento e diagnóstico precoce de sepse poderão contribuir mais efetivamente para a diminuição dos casos de sepse que evoluem ao óbito. A partir dessa análise, poder-se-ão realizar as intervenções necessárias com isso, a ampliação de dados sobre esta temática se faz necessária.

Leishmania spp. infection outcomes are dependent on both host and parasite factors. Manipulation of host signaling pathways involved in the generation of immune responses is thought to be one of the most common mechanisms used by parasites for persistence within the host. Considering the diversity of pathologies caused by different Leishmania spp., it is plausible that significant differences may exist in the mechanisms of host cell manipulation by each parasite species, which may have implications when developing new vaccine or treatment strategies. Here we show that in L. braziliensis-infection in BALB/c mice, a model of resistance, activation of ERK1/2 coincides with the peak of inflammatory responses and resolution of tissue parasitism. In contrast, in the susceptibility model of L. amazonensis-infection, an early silent phase of infection is observed, detected solely by quantification of parasite loads. At this early stage, only basal levels of P-ERK1/2 are observed. Later, after a brief shutdown of ERK1/2 phosphorylation, disease progression is observed and is associated with increased inflammation, lesion size and tissue parasitism. Moreover, the short-term down-regulation of ERK1/2 activation affected significantly downstream inflammatory pathways and adaptive T cell responses. Administration of U0126, a MEK/ERK inhibitor, confirmed this phenomenon, since bigger lesions and higher parasite loads were seen in infected mice that received U0126. To investigate how kinetics of ERK1/2 activation could affect the disease progression, U0126 was administered to L. amazonensis-infected animals earlier than the P-ERK1/2 switch off time-point. This intervention resulted in anticipation of the same effects on inflammatory responses and susceptibility phenotype seen in the natural course of infection. Additionally, in vitro inhibition of ERK1/2 affected the phagocytosis of L. amazonensis by BMDMs. Collectively, our findings reveal distinct temporal patterns of activation of inflammatory responses in L. braziliensis and L. amazonensis in the same animal background and a pivotal role for a brief and specific shutdown of ERK1/2 activation at late stages of L. amazonensis infection. Since activation of inflammatory responses is a crucial aspect for the control of infectious processes, these findings may be important for the search of new and specific strategies of vaccines and treatment for tegumentary leishmaniasis.

RESUMO - RACIONAL: Três técnicas cirúrgicas para correção de hérnia inguinal estão atualmente validadas. Poucos estudos compararam os resultados entre Lichtenstein e a abordagem laparoscópica transabdominal pré-peritoneal obtidos em uma etapa inicial da curva de aprendizado. OBJETIVO: Comparar os resultados iniciais do tratamento entre a técnica de Liechtenstein e a abordagem pré-peritoneal transabdominal laparoscópica para fornecer uma base para a tomada de decisão do cirurgião. MÉTODO: Os pacientes foram divididos em grupo 1: aborgadem laparoscópica transabdominal pré-peritoneal (114 pacientes), e grupo 2: reparo aberto de Lichtenstein (35 pacientes). Os dados foram coletados em prontuários médicos durante a evolução do pós-operatório imediato e por contato telefônico após a alta hospitalar. Para a análise das variáveis, foi implementado o teste de independência Qui-Quadrado, com nível de significância estabelecido em p-valor = 0,05. RESULTADOS: Houve forte associação entre laparoscopia, menos dor pós-operatória e maior tempo operatório. Além disso, notou-se preferência pela técnica nos casos de recorrência, bilateralidade, hérnia umbilical associada ou obesidade. Neste estudo, a técnica de Lichtenstein foi associada a um menor tempo de retorno ao trabalho e foi o tratamento de escolha para pacientes idosos. CONCLUSÃO: A herniorrafia laparoscópica transabdominal pré-peritoneal deve ser a primeira escolha em casos de bilateralidade, hérnia umbilical associada, obesidade e recorrência para reparo anterior. O risco cirúrgico é adequado para o procedimento, mesmo nos estágios iniciais da curva de aprendizado.

O presente artigo é reflexo do projeto de extensão “A PEDAGOGIA E A BRINQUEDOTECA: rompendo fronteiras” que se efetiva pelo atendimento de crianças, filhos dos presos, da Unidade Prisional de São Luís de Montes Belos – GO. O atendimento acontece na brinquedoteca, construída com todos os princípios de uma brinquedoteca, dentro do espaço prisional. Com a pandemia o projeto de extensão se ressignificou e tem realizado suas atividades de forma remota. Os acadêmicos envolvidos no projeto atuam como protagonistas de todo o processo, desde o planejamento das atividades, até a efetivação e avaliação. As atividades são de caráter formativo e educativo, tanto para os acadêmicos quanto para as crianças atendidas. Assim, o objetivo desse artigo é apresentar como o projeto se efetiva, considerando o princípio da extensão acadêmica, processual e orgânica, pela práxis crítico emancipadora, em que a unidade teoria e prática alicerça a formação dos acadêmicos ao longo do ano, para que possam desenvolver as atividades com as crianças compreendendo o sentido de ser da ação.

Abstract Objective To compare the short-term effects of pulsed laser and pulsed and continuous ultrasound on pain and functional disability in women with chronic non-specific low back pain. Methods The sample was composed of 100 volunteers randomly allocated into four groups: The Pulsed Laser Group (n = 26) was treated with 3 J/cm2; the Pulsed Ultrasound Group (n = 24; 3 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; the Continuous Ultrasound Group (n = 26; 1 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; and a Control Group (n = 24), where the patients were still waiting for treatment. Before and after 10 sessions of treatment, the intensity of pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the quality of pain was evaluated using the McGill pain questionnaire and functional disability was investigated using the Roland–Morris questionnaire. Results The three treated groups exhibited a decrease in pain (p

Summary. Human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a major public health problem worldwide, leading to significant mortality rates if not properly treated and controlled. Precise identification of infected patients is essential to establish treatment and control measures. Although several VL serological diagnosis advances have been accomplished lately, mainly using recombinant antigens and immunochromatographic tests (ICTs), improvements may still be achieved using multiepitope chimeric proteins in different test platforms. Here, we reported on the evaluation of ELISA and an ICT developed with a new chimeric protein, named DTL-4, based on repetitive antigenic sequences, including those present in the A2 protein. Methods. A total of 1028 sera samples were used for the development and validation of ELISA (321 samples from L. infantum-infected patients, 62 samples from VL/AIDS coinfected patients, 236 samples from patients infected with other diseases, and 409 samples from healthy donors). A total of 520 sera samples were used to develop and validate ICT (249 samples from L. infantum-infected patients, 46 samples from VL/AIDS coinfected patients, 40 samples from patients infected with other diseases, and 185 samples from healthy donors). Findings. Using the validation sera panels, DTL-4-based ELISA displayed an overall sensitivity of 94.61% (95% CI: 89.94-97.28), a specificity of 99.41% (95% CI: 96.39-99.99), and an accuracy of 97.02% (95% CI: 94.61-98.38), while for ICT, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values corresponded to 91.98% (95% CI: 86.65-95.39), 100.00% (95% CI: 96.30-100.00), and 95.14% (95% CI: 91.62-97.15), respectively. When testing sera samples from VL/AIDS coinfected patients, DTL-4-ELISA displayed a sensitivity of 77.42% (95% CI: 65.48-86.16), a specificity of 99.41% (95% CI: 96.39-99.99), and an accuracy of 93.51% (95% CI: 89.49%-96.10%), while for DTL-4-ICT, sensitivity was 73.91% (95% CI: 59.74-84.40), specificity was 90.63% (95% CI: 81.02-95.63), and accuracy was 82.00% (95% CI: 73.63-90.91). Conclusion. DTL-4 is a promising candidate antigen for serodiagnosis of VL patients, including those with VL/AIDS coinfection, when incorporated into ELISA or ICT test formats.

ABSTRACT: Background: Despite all efforts, the demand for organs increases. New and better strategies are still needed, critical in a crisis like pandemics. Methodology: A mathematical approach that integrates need, Opportunity, and Accessibility to kidney transplantation, was created. NOA method, corresponds to the lateral surface area of a trigonal pyramid with the need, Opportunity, and Accessibility as axis, resulting in an intuitional chart output (NOA chart) and a percentage score (NOA score). Higher NOA scores are associated with larger NOA chart areas. Method Application: We found some natural variability among the European Member States regarding Need, Opportunity, and Accessibility to kidney transplantation, concomitant with NOA scores. In 2019, in the European Union, 129 patients pmp on the waiting list for a kidney transplant were registered, 47 kidneys pmp were procured, and 36 kidneys pmp were transplanted, corresponding to 25% of kidney transplantation's response capacity. Conclusion: Transplantation is frequently the better treatment for end-stage kidney failure. NOA method may be, in the future, an indicator for evaluating the overall transplantation performance regarding the need for it and a tool for policy definition. With NOA method we seek to contribute for: • A transplantation overall performance normalizing score; • Transplantation response capacity evaluation.

BACKGROUND Unfortunately, no any vaccine against leishmaniasis has been developed for human use. Therefore, a vaccine based on total Leishmania antigens could be a good and economic approach; and there are different methodologies to obtain these antigens. However, it is unknown whether the method to obtain the antigens affects the integrity and immune response caused by them. OBJECTIVES to compare the protein profile and immune response generated by total L. amazonensis antigens (TLA) produced by different methods, as well as to analyse the immune response and protection by a first-generation vaccine formulated with sonicated TLA (sTLA) and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid [Poly (I:C)]. METHODS TLA were obtained by four different methodologies and their integrity and immune response were evaluated. Finally, sTLA was formulated with Poly (I:C) and their protective immune response was measured. FINDINGS sTLA presented a conserved protein profile and induced a strong immune response. In addition, Poly (I:C) improved the immune response generated by sTLA. Finally, sTLA + Poly (I:C) formulation provided partial protection against L. amazonensis infection. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The protein profile and immune response depend on the methodology used to obtain the antigens. Also, the formulation sTLA + Poly (I:C) provides partial protection against cutaneous leishmaniasis in mice.

Abstract This study aimed to determine the prevalence, factors associated, laboratory findings (with and without coinfection by retroviruses) among naturally infected cats by hemoplasmas in northeastern Brazil. For convenience, 200 domesticated and healthy cats were selected. Blood samples were taken to perform complete blood counts, serum biochemical, immunochromatography tests and nPCR for FIV and FeLV, and PCR for hemoplasma recognition. An interview was conducted to determine the factors associated with hemoplasmas. A total of 71/200 (35.5%) cats were positive for at least one hemoplasma species. Isolated infections were observed in 12,5% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 12% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 3% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Regarding copositivity, 2% of the animals were positive for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 1.5% for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis', and 4.5% for ' Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. No clinical and laboratory changes were observed in the animals that were concomitantly positive for retroviruses and hemoplasmas. Periurban region cats were more likely to be infected by M. haemofelis, while contact with other cats and infection by ' Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' were associated with 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum'. This study indicates that infection by hemoplasmas is a common find in cats from northeastern Brazil.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes temperaturas e períodos de armazenamento nos atributos físico químicos de frutos de araçazeiro-vermelho. Esta pesquisa foi desenvolvida na Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (CAV/UDESC), em Lages (SC), Brasil, com frutos colhidos em fevereiro de 2016. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições de 20 frutos, em esquema fatorial 2x5, com duas temperaturas (2°C e 25°C±2°C) e cinco períodos de armazenamento (0, 3, 6, 9 e 12 dias). As variáveis analisadas foram: perda de sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, relação sólidos solúveis/acidez titulável, pH e vitamina C de araçá- vermelho. Ocorreu perda de massa dos frutos, em ambas as temperaturas, ao longo do período de armazenamento. O teor de sólidos solúveis aumentou em frutos armazenados à 2°C. Observou-se ponto de mínima (1,83%), para o teor de acidez titulável, em frutos armazenados a 25°C. Para o pH dos frutos, oobservou-se ponto de mínima (3,17) em temperatura de 2°C e ponto de máxima (3,21), para aqueles armazenadconservados a 25°C. Frutos em temperatura de 2°C apresentaram menor teor de vitamina C aos sete dias de armazenamento, com teor de 17,23mg 100g-1 polpa. Em temperatura de 25°C, observou-se menor teor de vitamina C aos seis dias, com teor de 26,69mg 100g-1 polpa. Com a realização deste trabalho, pode-se concluir que, o uso de refrigeração a 2°C, por até 12 dias, apresenta-se como uma alternativa de conservação de araçá-vermelho, mantendo-se as principais características físico-químicas dos frutos.

Introdução: A ocorrência de Doenças de Transmissão Hídrica e Alimentar é uma preocupação mundial na Saúde Pública. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a ocorrência dos surtos alimentares em uma região do Vale do Jequitinhonha em Minas Gerais, entre os anos de 2008 a 2014, antes e após a intervenção do PET-Saúde/Vigilância em Saúde. Método: Os dados foram retirados de relatórios impressos e de fichas de notificações disponíveis nos sistemas de informação. Resultados: Foram investigados 76 surtos, destes, apenas 34,1% notificados oportunamente. As ações realizadas pela equipe PET-Saúde/Vigilância em Saúde entre 2010 e 2012 impactaram, positivamente, no aumento do número de notificações de surtos alimentares. A maioria destes surtos ocorreu em residências (47,4%), atingiu indivíduos adultos (30,4%) e apresentou como manifestações clínicas: diarreia (29,5%), vômitos (23,5%) e dores abdominais (16,3%). Na análise das notificações, 81,6% não apresentavam o fator causal e apenas 31,0% informaram o agente etiológico. Conclusões: A intervenção do PET-Saúde/Vigilância em Saúde representou um fator importante no fortalecimento da vigilância de surtos alimentares na região do Vale do Jequitinhonha estudada, contudo persistem dificuldades relacionadas a notificação tardia, a presença de falhas e de lacunas no registro dos dados e o baixo número de coletas clínicas e bromatológicas. ======================================== Introduction: The occurrence of water and food transmission diseases is a worldwide concern in Public Health. Objective: The objective of this study was to characterize the occurrence of food outbreaks in a region of the Jequitinhonha Valley in the State of Minas Gerais between 2008 and 2014, before and after the intervention of the PET-Health/Surveillance in Health. Method: Data were taken from printed reports and information sheets available in information systems. Results: Seventy-six outbreaks were investigated, of which only 34.1% were reported in a timely manner. The actions carried out by the PET-Health/Health Surveillance team between 2010 and 2012 positively impacted on the increase in the number of notifications of food outbreaks. Most of these outbreaks occurred in households (47.4%), reached adult individuals (30.4%) and presented as clinical manifestations: diarrhea (29.5%), vomiting (23.5%) and abdominal pain (16.3%). In the analysis of the notifications, 81.6% did not present the causal factor and only 31.0% reported the etiological agent. Conclusions: The intervention of PET-Health/Surveillance in Health represented an important factor for the strengthening surveillance of food outbreaks in the region studied of the Jequitinhonha Valley studied, but there are still difficulties related to late notification, presence of gaps and gaps in the data record and the low number of clinical and bromatological collections.

A procura por recursos que possam melhorar a performance e aumentar a massa muscular tem feito com que indivíduos usem abusivamente dos suplementos nutricionais. Este estudo teve por objetivo descrever o consumo de suplementos nutricionais entre frequentadores de academias de Ribeirão Preto-SP, bem como avaliar o consumo alimentar de macronutrientes. Foram selecionados aleatoriamente jovens entre 20 e 35 anos de ambos os sexos frequentadores de três academias, em Ribeirão Preto-SP. A ingestão alimentar foi avaliada por meio de um recordatório de 24 horas e utilizou-se um questionário de múltipla escolha com questões pertinentes ao uso de suplementos. Foram avaliados 50 indivíduos, dos quais 86% consumiam mais de um tipo de suplemento, sendo o mais citado os suplementos proteicos. O principal objetivo para o consumo destes produtos foi a hipertrofia muscular. Em relação à prática de exercício físico, 68% dos entrevistados relatou frequência de 3 a 5 vezes por semana, sendo que 80% praticava atividade física há mais de um ano. Constatou-se que grande parte da população faz uso de suplementos por iniciativa própria e por indicação de educadores físicos. Mais da metade da população apresentou uma dieta hipoglicídica, sendo que 86% consumiam menos de 5g/kg /dia de carboidrato. Além disso, 74% dos entrevistados apresentaram um consumo acima de 1,7g/kg/dia de proteína. O consumo de suplementos é elevado e sua utilização é feita sem orientação de um profissional adequado, o que pode contribuir pra um consumo inadequado de macronutrientes, conforme observado neste estudo. ABSTRACT Nutrition supplement and macronutrients charachterization in sport practiones in Ribeirão Preto The search for a better performance and a higher muscle mass has made some individuals to abuse of nutritional supplements. This study aims to describe nutrition supplement and macronutrients consume in gym classes practitioners in Ribeirão Preto. We selected gym practitioners from both sexes, between 20 and 35 years old in 3 academies in Ribeirão Preto. Food ingestion was analyzed by a 24 hours food intake and a supplement`s use multiple choice questionnaire. Fifty individuals were studied, 86% used more than one kind of supplement, protein supplement was the most frequently used. The main reason to use these products was muscle hypertrophy. 68% of the volunteers practiced physical activity 3 to 5 times a week, 80% of them had been practicing for more than one year. Most of the persons who used supplements, did this with no nutritional orientation. More than half of the volunteers had an hypoglicidic diet, of those, 86% had an ingestion of carbohidrate less than 5g/kg/day. Besides, 74% of the volunteers consumed more than 1.7g/kg/day of protein. The supplements consume is high and is not oriented by an adequate professional, this may contribute to an inadequate macronutrients consume, as observed in this study.

Leishmaniases are widespread neglected diseases with an incidence of 1.6 million new cases and 40 thousand deaths per year. Leishmania parasites may show distinct, species-specific patterns of virulence that lead to different clinical manifestations. It is well known that successive in vitro passages (SIVP) lead to the attenuation of virulence, but neither the metabolism nor the pathways involved in these processes are well understood. Herein, promastigotes of a virulent L. amazonensis strain recently isolated from mice was compared to SIVP derived and attenuated promastigotes, submitted to 10, 40, and 60 axenic passages and named R10, R40, and R60, respectively. In vitro assays and in vivo tests were performed to characterize and confirmed the attenuation profiles. A metabolomic fingerprint comparison of R0, R10, and R60 was performed by means of capillary electrophoresis, liquid and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. To validate the metabolomic data, qPCR for selected loci, flow cytometry to measure aPS exposure, sensitivity to antimony tartrate and ROS production assays were conducted. The 65 identified metabolites were clustered in biochemical categories and mapped in eight metabolic pathways: ABC transporters; fatty acid biosynthesis; glycine, serine and threonine metabolism; β-alanine metabolism; glutathione metabolism; oxidative phosphorylation; glycerophospholipid metabolism and lysine degradation. The obtained metabolomic data correlated with previous proteomic findings of the SVIP parasites and the gene expression of 13 selected targets. Late SIVP cultures were more sensitive to SbIII produced more ROS and exposed less phosphatidylserine in their surface. The correspondent pathways were connected to build a biochemical map of the most significant alterations involved with the process of attenuation of L. amazonensis. Overall, the reported data pointed out to a very dynamic and continuous metabolic reprogramming process, accompanied by changes in energetic, lipid and redox metabolisms, membrane remodeling and reshaping of parasite-host cells interactions, causing impacts in chemotaxis, host inflammatory responses and infectivity at the early stages of infection.

BACKGROUND Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease that is a significant cause of death among infants aged under 1 year and the elderly in Brazil. Serodiagnosis is a mainstay of VL elimination programs; however, it has significant limitations due to low accuracy. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate three recombinant Leishmania infantum proteins (rFc, rC9, and rA2) selected from previous proteomics and genomics analyses to develop enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunochromatographic tests (ICT) for the serodiagnosis of human VL (HVL) and canine VL (CVL). METHODS A total of 186 human (70 L. infantum-infected symptomatic, 20 other disease-infected, and 96 healthy) and 185 canine (82 L. infantum-infected symptomatic, 27 L. infantum-infected asymptomatic, and 76 healthy) sera samples were used for antibody detection. FINDINGS Of the three proteins, rA2 (91.5% sensitivity and 87% specificity) and rC9 (95.7% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity) displayed the best performance in ELISA-HVL and ELISA-CVL, respectively. ICT-rA2 also displayed the best performance for HVL diagnosis (92.3% sensitivity and 88.0% specificity) and had high concordance with immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT), ELISA-rK39, IT-LEISH®, and ELISAEXT. ICT-rFc, ICT-rC9, and ICT-rA2 had sensitivities of 88.6%, 86.5%, and 87.0%, respectively, with specificity values of 84.0%, 92.0%, and 100%, respectively for CVL diagnosis. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The three antigens selected by us are promising candidates for VL diagnosis regardless of the test format, although the antigen combinations and test parameters may warrant further optimisation.

Situs inversus totalis, a rare congenital recessive autosomal malformation described in humans by Fabricius, in 1600, is characterised by the viscera's transposition. It presents the incidence of approximately one case to each 10.000-20.000 newborns. The main etiology is still unknown and when the abdominal and thoracic visceral commitment is associated, including dextrocardia, it is described as situs inverses totalis. We report the case of a female patient, 16-years-old, who came to the Digestive Surgical Department, in hospital Therezinha de Jesus, Juiz de Fora and ndash; MG and ndash; Brazil, complaining of pain in the left hypochondrium, associated to nauseas and vomiting. The patient mentioned that she had been suffering for 4 months and that the pain worsened in the previous 2 days. At the general clinical examination, she presented a cardiac focus ausculta in the right hemithorax, however, without abnormalities. The abdomen was flat, without surgical scars, ventral or inguinal hernias. There was hyperthermia, pain in the deep palpation on the left hypochondrium, associated guarding and rebound tenderness. The patient told that she had a previous diagnosis of situs inversus totalis. The aim of this case report is to describe a patient with cholecystitis associated with situs inversus totalis, who was previously aware of her congenital abnormality. Moreover, we review some aspects for the correct diagnosis, and propose recommendations for a safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy. [Arch Clin Exp Surg 2016; 5(2.000): 124-127]

ABSTRACT Peach hand thinning improves fruit quality; however, it requires a high demand of labor and increases production costs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of growth regulators applied at post-flowering as an alternative to hand thinning of peaches. The experiment was conducted with peach cultivar Jubileu, in 2012. The treatments consisted of no thinning, hand thinning 45 days after full bloom (DAFB), ethephon (85 and 120 mg L-1), benzyladenine (BA) (400 mg L-1), and BA plus gibberellic acid (GA4 + 7) (400 mg L-1) applied 40 DAFB. BA-treated plants were not different from non-thinned plants, had excessive load, and smaller diameter fruit. Treatment with ethephon at 120 mg L-1 resulted in excessive thinning and decreased yield in comparison with other treatments. Plants treated with 85 mg L-1 ethephon and BA + AG4 + 7 (400 mg L-1) had fruit abscission, crop load, production per plant and fruit diameter similar to hand-thinned plants. In 2013, an increased number of flower buds was observed in treatments with ethephon and also reduction of this trait in BA and BA + GA4 + 7 applications. Ethephon at 85 mg L-1 can be an alternative of chemical thinning in 'Jubileu' peaches, without compromising the return of flower bud numbers in the next crop.

Background/aims: The frequency of Human Leucocyte Antigens/alleles associated with rapid progression from Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome was evaluated in Brazilian patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome with and without Toxoplasmic Encephalitis. Methods: 114 patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (41 with Toxoplasmic Encephalitis, 43 with anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies, without Toxoplasmic Eencephalitis, and 30 without anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies circulating and without Toxoplasmic Encephalitis) were studied. Results: Human Leucocyte Antigens/alleles associated with rapid progression to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, particularly HLA-B35, -DR3, and -DR1 allele group, were significantly less represented in patients with Toxoplasmic Encephalitis and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Conclusion: The presence of these Human Leucocyte Antigens/Alleles that predispose to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome progression was associated with resistance to Toxoplasmic Encephalitis among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 carriers. Keywords: HLA, AIDS, Encephalitis, T. gondii

ABSTRACT Objective Several formulas based in different biomarkers may be used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GRF). However, all of them have some limitations, and it is very important to evaluate their performances in different groups of patients. Therefore, we compared GFR, as estimated by creatinine-based and cystatin C-based equations, according to albuminuria, in type 1 diabetes (T1DM), in an observational case-control study. Subjects and methods T1DM patients were classified according to albuminuria: normoalbuminuric (n = 63), microalbuminuric (n = 30), macroalbuminuric (n = 32). GFR was calculated using creatinine-based and cystatin C-based (aMDRD, CKD-EPIcr, CKD-EPIcys, MacIsaac, Tan and CKD-EPIcrcys) equations. Spearman Correlation was used to evaluate the correlation of GFR estimated by the formulas with albuminuria. ROC curves were constructed to compare AUCs of GFR estimated by equations, in reference to macroalbuminuria. Sensibility, specificity and accuracy were calculated for a cut-off < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Results GFR estimated by creatinine-based and cystatin C-based equations significantly differed among normoalbuminuric, microalbuminuric and macroalbuminuric patients. Spearman correlation and AUCs of GFR estimated by creatinine-based and cystatin C-based formulas were very similar to each other, though cystatin C-based equations presented better correlation with albuminuria and higher AUCs than the creatinine-based ones, and the best accuracy to detect macroalbuminuric patients. Conclusion Although GFR estimated by all creatinine-based and cystatin C-based equations permitted the differentiation between T1DM patients, according to albuminuria, cystatin C-based equations presented best accuracy to detect macroalbuminuria in T1DM patients and should be considered in the clinical routine in order to increase the possibility of early diagnostic of chronic renal disease.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a major public health issue reported as the second illness in mortality among all tropical diseases. Clinical trials have shown that protection against VL is associated with robust T cell responses, especially those producing IFN-γ. The Leishmania amastigote 2 (A2) protein has been repeatedly described as immunogenic and protective against VL in different animal models; it is recognized by human T cells, and it is also commercially available in a vaccine formulation containing saponin against canine VL. Moving toward a more appropriate formulation for human vaccination, here, we tested a new optimized version of the recombinant protein (rA2), designed for Escherichia coli expression, in combination with adjuvants that have been approved for human use. Moreover, aiming at improving the cellular immune response triggered by rA2, we generated a recombinant live vaccine vector using Trypanosoma cruzi CL-14 non-virulent strain, named CL-14 A2. Mice immunized with respective rA2, adsorbed in Alum/CpG B297, a TLR9 agonist recognized by mice and human homologs, or with the recombinant CL-14 A2 parasites through homologous prime-boost protocol, were evaluated for antigen-specific immune responses and protection against Leishmania infantum promastigote challenge. Immunization with the new rA2/Alum/CpG formulations and CL-14 A2 transgenic vectors elicited stronger cellular immune responses than control groups, as shown by increased levels of IFN-γ, conferring protection against L. infantum challenge. Interestingly, the use of the wild-type CL-14 alone was enough to boost immunity and confer protection, confirming the previously reported immunogenic potential of this strain. Together, these results support the success of both the newly designed rA2 antigen and the ability of T. cruzi CL-14 to induce strong T cell-mediated immune responses against VL in animal models when used as a live vaccine vector. In conclusion, the vaccination strategies explored here reveal promising alternatives for the development of new rA2 vaccine formulations to be translated human clinical trials.

Abstract Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of the capping materials mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), calcium hydroxide (CH) and BiodentineTM (BD) on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) in vitro. Material and Methods: SHED were cultured for 1 – 7 days in medium conditioned by incubation with MTA, BD or CH (1 mg/mL), and tested for viability (MTT assay) and proliferation (SRB assay). Also, the migration of serum-starved SHED towards conditioned media was assayed in companion plates, with 8 μm-pore-sized membranes, for 24 h. Gene expression of dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP-1) was evaluated by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Regular culture medium with 10% FBS (without conditioning) and culture medium supplemented with 20% FBS were used as controls. Results: MTA, CH and BD conditioned media maintained cell viability and allowed continuous SHED proliferation, with CH conditioned medium causing the highest positive effect on proliferation at the end of the treatment period (compared with BD and MTA) (p

Abstract Background LiHyV is an antigenic hypothetical protein present in both promastigote and amastigote stages of Leishmania infantum, which was recently identified by an immunoproteomic approach. A recombinant version of this protein (rLiHyV) was evaluated as a diagnostic marker for canine VL (CVL). In addition, the prophylactic efficacy of the rLiHyV protein, and two of its CD8+ T cell epitopes, has been analyzed in a murine model of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Methods Initially, the rLiHyV protein was evaluated by an ELISA technique for the serodiagnosis of CVL. Secondly, vaccines composed of the recombinant protein and both chemically synthesized peptides, combined with saponin as an adjuvant; were administered subcutaneously into BALB/c mice. The cellular and humoral responses generated by vaccination were evaluated. In addition, the parasite burden and immune response were studied 10 weeks after L. infantum infection. Results The rLiHyV protein was recognized by antibodies of VL dogs. No cross-reactivity was obtained with sera from dogs vaccinated with a Brazilian commercial vaccine, with sera from animals infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis, or those from non-infected animals living in an endemic area for leishmaniasis. After challenge with L. infantum, spleen cells of BALB/c mice vaccinated with rLiHyV/saponin stimulated with parasite antigens showed a higher production of IFN-γ, IL-12 and GM-CSF, than the same cells obtained from mice vaccinated with the individual peptides, or mice from control (inoculated with saline or saponin) groups. This Th1-type cellular response observed in rLiHyV/saponin vaccinated mice was accompanied by the induction of parasite-specific IgG2a isotype antibodies. Animals immunized with rLiHyV/saponin showed significant reductions in the parasite burden in the liver, spleen, bone marrow and in the lymph nodes draining the paws relative to control mice. Conclusions The present study showed for the first time that the L. infantum LiHyV protein could be considered as a vaccine candidate against L. infantum infection, as well as a diagnostic marker for CVL.

Resistance to recombinant human erythropoietin is a common condition in dialyzed patients with chronic kidney disease and is associated with more hospitalizations, increased mortality and frequent blood transfusions. The main cause of hyporesponsiveness to recombinant human erythropoietin in these patients is iron deficiency. However, a high proportion of patients does not respond to treatment, even to the use of intravenous iron, which indicates the presence of other important causes of resistance. In addition to the iron deficiency, the most common causes of resistance include inflammation, infection, malnutrition, inadequate dialysis, and hyperparathyroidism, although other factors may be associated. In the presence of adequate iron stores, other causes should be investigated and treated appropriately.

Body composition has fundamental importance in the quality of life and is a powerful predictor of mortality and morbidity in humans. The identification and monitoring of the amount of body fat have been receiving special attention in aspects related to health promotion, not just for its actions in the prevention and in the control of cardiovascular diseases but also for their induction and association with risk factors, especially in the plasmatic lipid levels and arterial pressure. It was investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (%BF) by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) with the blood pressure levels (systolic and diastolic) and serum lipids (TC, HDL-c, LDL-c, VLDL-c, TG). In a group of fifty seven women (aged 18 to 26 years old ), obesity was detected in 5 and 19 women by BMI (≥ 30 kg/m2) and %BF (≥ 30%), respectively. BMI and % BF were positively correlated with blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), and highly significant in the obese group by %BF. Moreover, BMI and % BF were significantly correlated with all lipids and lipoprotein fractions VLDL-c and triglyceride, respectively. These results suggest that %BF is a good indicator of “occult obesity” in subjects with normal body mass index. The associated use of BMI and %BF to better evaluate obesity may improve the study of blood pressure levels and serum lipid changes that are commonly associated with obesity.

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the antimicrobial, cytotoxic and healing activities of the ethanolic extract of the stems of Z. tuberculosa via topical use and/or oral ingestion. METHOD: antimicrobial assays in vitro using the disk diffusion method, the Artemia salina toxicity test, and in vivo assays with Wistar rats. From these was collected clinical, histological and biochemical data for evaluating the healing process. RESULTS: in vitro antimicrobial testing showed activity in relation to Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, with zones of inhibition of 18, 14 and 10 mm, respectively. The best minimum inhibitory concentration was 62.5 µg/ml for S. aureus, this bacteria being chosen for the in vitro assays. Animals treated with the ointments with the extract of Z. tuberculosa showed the best results in the reduction of the wound diameter, data confirmed by the presence of re-epithelialization in the histological samples. CONCLUSION: the extract was shown to be promising for the continuation of studies which may identify the active ingredients responsible for the pharmacological activity and its mechanism of action in the process of wound healing, so as to develop a product which may be used as an alternate means in the repair of infected cutaneous wounds.

This study aimed at investigating the association between haemostatic biomarkers, proinflammatory, and anti-inflammatory cytokines with chronic kidney disease in type 1 diabetic patients. Patients were divided into two groups: with nephropathy (albuminuria ≥ 30 mg/g and/or GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2), n=65; and without nephropathy (albuminuria < 30 mg/g and GFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2), n=60. INF-γ, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α plasma levels were determined by flow cytometry. VWF, ADAMTS13 antigen, and D-Dimer plasma levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and ADAMTS13 activity was assessed by fluorescence resonance energy transfer assay. Elevated levels of INF-γ, VWF, ADAMTS13 antigen, D-Dimer, and reduced ADAMTS13 activity/antigen ratio were observed in patients with nephropathy as compared to those without nephropathy (P=0.001, P

The current study aims to evaluate histopathological and digital morphometrical aspects associated with uterine leiomyomas in one hundred and fifty (150) patients diagnosed with leiomyoma. Uterine tissues were subjected to the histopathological and digital morphometric analyses of the interstitial collagen distribution. The analysis of medical records indicates that most of the women diagnosed with uterine leiomyomas (68.7%) are between 37 and 48 years old. As for the anatomic location of the tumors, approximately 61.4% of the patients had intramural and subserosal lesions. In 50% of the studied cases, the patients developed uterine leiomyomatosis (with more than eight tumors). As for the morphometric study, the average size of the interstitial collagen distribution held approximately 28.53% of the capture area, whereas it was of 7.43% in the normal tissue adjacent to the tumor. Another important aspect observed in the current study was the high rate of young women subjected to total hysterectomy, a fact that resulted in early and definitive sterility.

The zoonotic potential of giardiasis, as proposed by WHO since the late 70's, has been largely confirmed in this century. The genetic assemblages A and B of Giardia duodenalis are frequently isolated from human and canine hosts. Most of the assemblage A strains are not infective to adult mice, which can limit the range of studies regarding to biology of G. duodenalis, including virulence factors and the interaction with host immune system. This study aimed to determine the infectivity in mice of an assemblage A Giardia duodenalis strain (BHFC1) isolated from a dog and to classify the strain in sub-assemblages (AI, AII, AIII) through the phylogenetic analysis of beta-giardin (bg), triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) genes. In addition, the proteomic profile of soluble and insoluble protein fractions of trophozoites was analyzed by 2D-electrophoresis. Accordingly, trophozoites of BHFC1 were highly infective to Swiss mice. The phylogenetic analysis of tpi and gdh revealed that BHFC1 clustered to sub-assemblage AI. The proteomic map of soluble and insoluble protein fractions led to the identification of 187 proteins of G. duodenalis, 27 of them corresponding to hypothetical proteins. Considering both soluble and soluble fractions, the vast majority of the identified proteins (n = 82) were classified as metabolic proteins, mainly associated with carbon and lipid metabolism, including 53 proteins with catalytic activity. Some of the identified proteins correspond to antigens while others can be correlated with virulence. Besides a significant complementation to the proteomic data of G. duodenalis, these data provide an important source of information for future studies on various aspects of the biology of this parasite, such as virulence factors and host and pathogen interactions.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a ação cicatrizante de própolis verde e vermelha, correlacionando ao teor de flavonoides MÉTODOS: Foi realizada a quantificação de flavonoides totais dos extratos etanólicos de própolis verde e vermelha para posterior incorporação em pomada base a 20%. Utilizou-se 20 ratos Wistar distribuídos em quatro grupos: solução salina a 0,9% (S), pomada base (B), pomada própolis verde (G), pomada própolis vermelha (R), todos submetidos à confecção de lesões excisivas na região mediana do dorso. Os ratos foram tratados diariamente durante 15 dias. Neste período foram observados peso; temperatura corporal; diâmetro das feridas. Para análise histológica, amostras das feridas foram coletadas. Ao fim do experimento foram realizadas coleta sanguínea e remoção do rim e fígado para análises bioquímica e histológica. RESULTADOS: Os teores de flavonoides totais das própolis verde (4,50 %) e vermelha (5,92 %) foram elevados (>2 %), mas, embora a segunda apresente teor maior que a primeira, a evolução da própolis verde, macro e histologicamente, foi melhor na reparação das feridas. Não foram observadas nefro ou hepatotoxicidade, resultado corroborado pelos ensaios bioquímicos (TGP e albumina). A própolis influiu na redução de colesterol total, triglicerídeos e glicemia. CONCLUSÃO: Não foi possível correlacionar o teor de flavonoides totais com a ação cicatrizante da própolis. O dado revela a necessidade da elucidação dos flavonoides encontrados em cada classe de própolis para desvendar qual (ou quais) flavonoide(s) seria(m) representativo(s) no processo cicatricial.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the healing action of green and red propolis, correlating it with the content of flavonoids. METHODS: We performed quantification of total flavonoids of green and red propolis ethanol extracts for subsequent incorporation in ointment base to 20%. We used 20 Wistar rats divided into four groups: 0.9% saline (S), ointment base (B), green propolis ointment (G) and red propolis ointment (R). All animals were submitted to excisional lesions in the midian back region. The rats were treated daily for 15 days. During this period we observed weight, body temperature and diameters of the wounds. For histological analysis, samples were collected from wounds. At the end of the experiment we performed blood collection and removal of the kidney and liver for biochemical and histological analyzes. RESULTS: The levels of total flavonoids of green (4.50%) and red (5.92%) propolis were high (> 2%), but, while the latter showed a content larger than the former, the evolution of green propolis was better in the repair of wounds, both macroscopically and histologically. There were no nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity, a result confirmed by biochemical tests (ALT and albumin). Propolis influenced the reduction of total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose. CONCLUSION: There was no correlation between total flavonoid contents and the healing action of propolis. This reveals the need for elucidation of the flavonoids found in each class of propolis to unravel which one(s) would be important for the healing process.

Este artigo aborda a trajetória de uma experiência comunitária vinculada a uma organização não governamental, o Movimento de Saúde Mental Comunitária do Bom Jardim e a parceria celebrada entre essa entidade e a Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Fortaleza. Tal parceria vem proporcionando a expansão de ações psicossociais, bem como a cogestão de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial tipo II inaugurado em 2005 (CAPS Comunitário do Bom Jardim). Geograficamente situado na Regional V, área com os piores indicadores sociais e sanitários de Fortaleza, o Movimento de Saúde Mental Comunitária do Bom Jardim oferta atividades como Terapia Comunitária, Biodança, Arteterapia, Grupos de autoestima, Massoterapia, Reiki, Shiatsu, Quiropraxia, Oficinas de arte, música e teatro, cursos profissionalizantes e atividades lúdicas e educativas para diversas faixas etárias da população do bairro. A articulação entre as ações implementadas pelo Movimento de Saúde Mental Comunitária do Bom Jardim e a parceria com a Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Fortaleza apresenta desafios e possibilidades na tentativa de construção da integralidade no campo da atenção psicossocial. Neste artigo apresentamos a trajetória histórica da referida entidade, descrevemos algumas de suas principais atividades e realizamos uma breve análise da parceria com a Secretaria Municipal de Saúde e o processo de cogestão do Centro de Atenção Psicossocial, apontando também alguns desafios e possibilidades encontradas nessa tentativa de convergência entre uma concepção de trabalho comunitário e a lógica burocrático-normativa sobre a qual geralmente se sustenta a atuação de instituições estatais de saúde.This is the report of the partnership experience between a nongovernmental organization that works with Mental Health and the Health Municipal Commission of Fortaleza/Ceará. This partnership has expanded several psychosocial actions as Community Therapy, Biodance, Self-Esteem Groups, courses of arts/music, massotherapy, herbal medicine therapy and other integrative practices. The co-management of a Psychosocial Center has also been articulated. This paper describes the trajectory of the nongovernmental organization, describes some of the activities offered to the population and analyses the possibilities, difficulties and challenges of the partnership that has been essayed.

A cultura da Physalis peruviana, família das solanáceas, ainda é pouco explorada no Brasil, mas é uma nova opção de diversificação para pequenos produtores, com boas perspectivas para o mercado nacional e internacional, mais conhecida como camapum e joá-de-capote, podendo ser confundida com outras espécies. Essa frutífera pode chegar até dois metros de altura quando se utiliza um sistema de condução adequado, influenciando no desenvolvimento da planta e na qualidade do fruto produzido. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a influência de quatro sistemas de condução de plantas de physalis na produção de frutos, em dois ciclos de produção, durante os anos de 2006-2007 e 2007-2008, em Lages-SC. Avaliaram-se os sistemas de condução em "V", em "X", espaldeira simples e livre. O delineamento experimental adotado foi de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições, sendo cada unidade experimental constituída de dez plantas. Observou-se que, nos dois ciclos consecutivos, o sistema em "X" apresentou os melhores resultados na maioria das características físico-químicas analisadas, quando comparado com os outros sistemas de condução. Conclui-se que a physalis se adapta bem à região do planalto catarinense e que, independentemente do sistema de condução utilizado, a planta tutorada sob sistema de condução apresentou frutos de maior peso, diâmetro e melhor qualidade, gerando frutos com maior valor comercial, quando comparados com a testemunha, sem condução e sem tutoramento.The culture of Physalis peruviana, the Solanaceae family, is still little explored in Brazil, but is a new option for diversification for small farmers, with good prospects for the domestic and international markets. It is an exotic fruit, belonging to the nightshade family and is known as camapum and joa-the-cloak, and can be confused with other species. It is a plant that can reach two meters in height system is used to drive appropriate, influencing plant development and quality of fruit produced. The objective was to evaluate the influence of four training systems in plants of physalis fruit production in two production cycles, during the years 2006-2007 and 2007-2008, in Lages, SC. We evaluated the following drive systems: system "V" system "X", espalier system simple and free. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replicates and each experimental unit consisted of ten plants. It was observed that in two consecutive cycles, the system "X" showed the best results in most of the physico-chemical analysis, when compared with other training systems. We conclude that the physalis fits well the plateau region of Santa Catarina and that regardless of the conduction system used, the plant and tutored under a system of driving, had greater fruit weight, diameter and quality, thereby generating a result with higher commercial value.

This study evaluated two vaccine candidates for their effectiveness in protecting BALB/c mice against Leishmania chagasiinfection. These immunogenic preparations were composed of Leishmania amazonensisor Leishmania braziliensisantigenic extracts in association with saponin adjuvant. Mice were given three subcutaneous doses of one of these vaccine candidates weekly for three weeks and four weeks later challenged with promastigotes of L. chagasiby intravenous injection. We observed that both vaccine candidates induced a significant reduction in the parasite load of the liver, while the L. amazonensisantigenic extract also stimulated a reduction in spleen parasite load. This protection was associated with a suppression of both interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-4 cytokines by spleen cells in response to L. chagasiantigen. No change was detected in the production of IFN-γ. Our data show that these immunogenic preparations reduce the type 2 immune response leading to the control of parasite replication.

O artigo apresenta-se originalmente como resumo de Trabalho de Conclusão do Curso Tecnológico de GestãoTurística, do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Goiás. A proposta dessa pesquisa estevecentrada no estudo sobre o trabalho das mulheres da cidade de Vila Boa de Goiás, visto da perspectiva socialdo trabalho feminino da poetisa Cora Coralina. A pesquisa analisou a construção histórica e identitária dessetrabalho ao longo dos anos. É resultado da investigação teórica e documental de escritos da poetisa, de fontesbibliográficas nacionais e estrangeiras abordando as questões de gênero, da revisão bibliográfica sobre ahistória de Goiás e, por fim, da realização da pesquisa de campo na própria localidade. O resgate e análise daobra literária de Cora Coralina e os depoimentos de mulheres da cidade dão consistência ao sentido do trabalhofeminino em Vila Boa de Goiás. Esse sentido de trabalho feminino foi apropriado pela pesquisa como elementopotencializador da atividade turística de caráter histórico-cultural da óptica da sustentabilidade.

O ácaro Brevipalpus phoenicis é encontrado nos cafezais do Brasil desde a década de 50. Responsável por perdas indiretas por ser o vetor de uma doença virótica requer constantes medidas de controle, sendo a mais utilizada baseada na pulverização de acaricidas. Avaliou-se a mortalidade do ácaro B. phoenicis em função da cobertura de calda aplicada em plantas de café, com dois tipos de ramais utilizados em pulverizadores de jato transportado e quatro volumes de aplicação. O produto utilizado para o trabalho foi o acaricida abamectina (Vertimec 18 CE® na dose de 0,4 L/ha). Os tratamentos utilizados foram a aplicação do acaricida abamectina, nos volumes de 250, 400, 550 e 700 L/ha, com dois tipos de ramais de bicos. Em cada tratamento foram avaliadas a eficiência de controle de B. phoenicis, a deposição e a cobertura da calda nas plantas de café. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados, com oito tratamentos mais uma testemunha e quatro repetições. A análise estatística foi realizada no esquema fatorial 2x4+1. Verificou-se que não houve diferenças significativas no número de ácaros encontrados entre os tratamentos. Para a deposição de calda, observou-se um aumento em função do volume de aplicação, sendo que a parte superior das plantas apresentou maior deposição de produto. A duplicação dos ramais resultou em um aumento significativo da eficiência de controle de B. phoenicis comparado ao ramal convencional e à testemunha, independe do volume de aplicação entre os limites avaliados.Efficiency of different spraying lances and spraying volumes on the control of Brevipalpus phoenicis in coffee crops. The mite Brevipalpus phoenicis is found on coffee plantations in Brazil since the 1950's. Responsible for indirect losses due to its role as vector of a virus disease, this mite species often requires control measures, the most common based on mitecide spraying. It was evaluated the mortality of B. phoenicis due the coverage of spraying liquid applied on coffee plants, with two types of lances used in air assisted sprayers and four spraying volumes. Treatments were applied with mitecide abamectin (Vertimec 18 CE® at 0.4 L per hectare), in volumes of 250, 400, 550 and 700 L per hectare, with two types of lances for the nozzles. The control efficiency against B. phoenicis, deposition and coverage by spray liquid on coffee plants was evaluated. Experimental delineation was in randomized blocks, with eight treatments plus a check plot in four replications. The statistical analysis was carried in a factorial scheme 2x4+1. No significant differences in the number of mites were found between treatments. As regards spraying liquid deposition, it was observed an increment with increasing spraying volumes, with the plant tops showing the best deposition of spraying liquid. The duplication of the lances (nozzle branches) resulted in a significant increase in control efficiency for B. phoenicis compared with conventional branch and with check plot, without dependence of spraying volume.

Objective: This study evaluated the ability of heme oxygenase-1 to prevent or reverse renal fibrosis. Methods: Sprague-dawley male rats were submitted to unilateral ureteral obstruction and divided into groups: non-treated and hemin. Biochemical and histological analyses were performed. We also conducted RT-PCR to verify the expression of heme oxygenase-1, MCP-1, IL1-β, IL-6, TNF-α, COL-I, COL-III, PAI-1 and fibronectin mRNA. Rresults: heme oxygenase-1 expression significantly increased in treated animals. The non treated group showed significantly higher levels of proteinuria than the Hemin group. The protein/urinary creatinine ratio in obstructed pelvis was also higher in non treated group, which also showed greater albuminuria and higher percentage of fibrosis when compared to the Hemin group. The expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic molecules was significantly higher in the non treated group. Cconclusions: The treatment induced the expression of heme oxygenase-1, preventing the installation of fibrosis and even limiting its progression.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a presença de lipodistrofia clínica em crianças com síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida e relacioná-la com o esquema antirretroviral utilizado, alterações do perfil lipídico e resistência insulínica. MÉTODOS: Por meio de estudo transversal, foram avaliadas 30 crianças e adolescentes (mediana de idade = 9,1 anos) com síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida, no período entre 2004 e 2005. As avaliações clínico-laboratoriais incluíram: classificação da infecção pelo HIV, medidas antropométricas (peso e estatura), glicemia e insulina séricas e perfil lipídico (LDL-c, HDL-c, triglicérides). A lipodistrofia foi definida por parâmetros clínicos. O teste do qui-quadrado foi utilizado na análise estatística. RESULTADOS: Todos os pacientes recebiam terapia antirretroviral regularmente (mediana de tempo de uso = 28,4 meses), 80% utilizavam três drogas em associação (terapia fortemente ativa) e 30% usavam inibidores de protease. Lipodistrofia e dislipidemia foram observadas em 53,3 e 60% dos pacientes, respectivamente. Crianças que utilizavam terapia fortemente ativa com inibidor de protease apresentaram maior percentual de lipodistrofia mista, com diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao grupo com terapia fortemente ativa sem inibidor de protease e ao grupo sem terapia fortemente ativa (44,4 versus 16,7%; p = 0,004). Não se observou diferença estatisticamente significante entre presença de lipodistrofia e gênero, idade (> 10 anos), alterações do perfil lipídico e resistência insulínica. CONCLUSÕES: A elevada prevalência de dislipidemia e lipodistrofia verificada nas crianças com síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida, mostrando relação com o esquema antirretroviral empregado, pode significar um risco elevado para o desenvolvimento futuro de complicações, especialmente as cardiovasculares.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the presence of clinical lipodystrophy in children with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and to relate it to the antiretroviral regimen employed, to changes in lipid profile and to insulin resistance. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that evaluated 30 children and adolescents (median age = 9.1 years) with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome during 2004 and 2005. The following clinical and laboratory evaluations were performed: classification of HIV infection, anthropometric measurements (weight and height), serum glycemia, serum insulin and lipid profile (LDL-c, HDL-c, triglycerides). Lipodystrophy was diagnosed using clinical parameters. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: All of the patients were taking antiretroviral therapy regularly (median duration of 28.4 months); 80% were on three drugs in combination (highly active therapy) and 30% were on protease inhibitors. Lipodystrophy and dyslipidemia were observed in 53.3 and 60% of the patients, respectively. Children on a highly active therapy regimen with protease inhibitors exhibited a higher percentage of mixed lipodystrophy; the difference between these children and the group on highly active therapy without protease inhibitors and the group not on a highly active therapy was statistically significant (44.4 vs. 16.7%; p = 0.004). There was no statistically significant association between the presence of lipodystrophy and sex, age (> 10 years), changes to the lipid profile or insulin resistance. CONCLUSIONS: The elevated prevalence of dyslipidemia and lipodystrophy observed among children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, which exhibited a relationship with the antiretroviral regimen employed, may represent an increased risk for future complications, in particular cardiovascular problems.

Objectivos: A insuficiência respiratória parcial aguda (IRPA) grave é uma situação comum na prática dos cuidados intensivos, mas os estudos existentes são insuficientes. Com este trabalho pretendeu-se estudar a prevalência e caracterizar clinicamente a população de doentes internados numa UCI que apresentam insuficiência respiratória parcial aguda grave. Material e métodos: Numa unidade de cuidados intensivos médico-cirúrgica avaliaram-se retrospectivamente os doentes internados durante o ano de 2004. Resultados: 37,6% dos doentes apresentaram IRPA grave. A análise estatística demonstrou que estes doentes diferiam dos doentes sem IRPA nos tempos de internamento e ventilação, índices de gravidade e mortalidade. Conclusão: A IRPA é uma situação com elevada prevalência e relevância em cuidados intensivos, mas as características destes doentes estão mal definidas, em parte devido à ausência de critérios claros na sua definição. Para melhor compreender este fenómeno são necessários mais estudos, prospectivos e multicêntricos.Objective: The authors analysed patients with severe partial respiratory failure (SPRF) admitted to a general Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The prevalence and clinical characteristics of these patients were evaluated. This work aims to study the rate of and to clinically characterise the patient population admitted to an Intensive Care Unit with acute severe partial respiratory failure. Material and methods: In 16-bed ICU of a central Hospital in Lisbon, patients admitted in the year 2004 were analysed. Patients with SPRF were recruited form patients with an ICU stay> 24 hours. They were selected according to PaO2 and FiO2 and clinically characterized. Results: During the study period 472 patients were admitted, and 378 presented an ICU stay> 24 hours and were enrolled. From those, 142 (37.6%) met criteria for SPRF. Of these, 45 (31.7%) a pulmonary aetiology of SPRF was identified. Patients with SRPF were older, had longer ICU stay, and presented higher severity indexes and mortality. The prevalence of adult respiratory distress syndrome was possible to evaluate in the deceased patients with SPRF (n=52). In these we could find 12 (23%) patients that met criteria for that entity. By multivariate analysis the mortality of patients with SRPF correlated with older age and the presence of circulatory failure (p

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of HPV infection and the types 16 and 18 in cervical samples from patients attended at two public health services of the city of Belo Horizonte, MG. METHODS: Cervical samples from 174 patients were collected for cytopathological and molecular tests. HPV infection was searched by PCR utilizing MY09 and MY11 primers or HPV 16 and HPV 18 specific primers. RESULTS: Amongst the 174 samples analyzed, 20.7% presented squamous intraepithelial and/or invasive lesions detected on cytopathological analysis and of those, 94.4% were infected by HPV. HPV 16 was found in 20% of the cases of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and in 40% and 50% of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and squamous invasive carcinoma, respectively. HPV 18 was detected in 6.7% of the low-grade lesion samples and in two HPV16 co-infected samples. In 50% of the cases of high-grade lesion, the HPV type was not determined. CONCLUSION: The HPV 16 was the virus type more frequently detected. However, more than 50% of the positive samples at the cytopathological analysis were negative for HPV 16 and 18, indicating that possibly other virus types are present in relative high frequencies in the studied population.OBJETIVOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a freqüência da infecção por HPV e dos tipos 16 e 18 em amostras cervicais de pacientes atendidas em dois serviços públicos da cidade de Belo Horizonte-MG. MÉTODOS: Amostras cervicais de 174 pacientes foram coletadas para estudo citopatológico e molecular. A pesquisa da infecção por HPV foi feita através da PCR utilizando os oligonucleotídeos MY09/MY11. Os tipos virais 16 e 18 foram pesquisados através da utilização de oligonucleotídeos específicos. RESULTADOS: Dentre as 174 amostras analisadas, 20,7% apresentaram lesões escamosas intra-epiteliais e/ou invasoras detectadas na análise citopatológica, das quais 94,4% mostraram infecção por HPV. O HPV 16 foi encontrado em torno de 20% dos casos de lesão escamosa intra-epitelial de baixo grau e em 40% e 50% dos casos de lesão escamosa intra-epitelial de alto grau e carcinoma escamoso invasor, respectivamente. O HPV 18 foi encontrado em 6,7% das amostras com lesão de baixo grau e em dois casos de co-infecção com HPV 16. Em 50% dos casos de lesão de alto grau, o tipo de HPV não foi determinado. CONCLUSÕES: O HPV 16 foi o tipo viral mais freqüentemente detectado. No entanto, mais de 50% das amostras positivas no exame citopatológico não apresentaram HPV 16 e 18, indicando que possivelmente outros tipos virais estejam presentes em freqüências relativamente altas na população estudada.

Leishmaniasis, a human parasitic disease with manifestations ranging from cutaneous ulcerations to fatal visceral infection, is caused by several Leishmania species. These protozoan parasites replicate as extracellular, flagellated promastigotes in the gut of a sandfly vector and as amastigotes inside the parasitophorous vacuole of vertebrate host macrophages. Amastins are surface glycoproteins encoded by large gene families present in the genomes of several trypanosomatids and highly expressed in the intracellular amastigote stages of Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp. Here, we showed that the genome of L. braziliensis contains 52 amastin genes belonging to all four previously described amastin subfamilies and that the expression of members of all subfamilies is upregulated in L. braziliensis amastigotes. Although primary sequence alignments showed no homology to any known protein sequence, homology searches based on secondary structure predictions indicate that amastins are related to claudins, a group of proteins that are components of eukaryotic tight junction complexes. By knocking-down the expression of δ-amastins in L. braziliensis, their essential role during infection became evident. δ-amastin knockdown parasites showed impaired growth after in vitro infection of mouse macrophages and completely failed to produce infection when inoculated in BALB/c mice, an attenuated phenotype that was reverted by the re-expression of an RNAi-resistant amastin gene. Further highlighting their essential role in host-parasite interactions, electron microscopy analyses of macrophages infected with amastin knockdown parasites showed significant alterations in the tight contact that is normally observed between the surface of wild type amastigotes and the membrane of the parasitophorous vacuole.

In the present study, two Leishmania infantum hypothetical proteins present in the amastigote stage, LiHyp1 and LiHyp6, were combined with a promastigote protein, IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor (HRF); to compose a polyproteins vaccine to be evaluated against L. infantum infection. Also, the antigenicity of the three proteins was analyzed, and their use for the serodiagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) was evaluated. The LiHyp1, LiHyp6, and HRF DNA coding sequences were cloned in prokaryotic expression vectors and the recombinant proteins were purified. When employed in ELISA assays, all proteins were recognized by sera from visceral leishmaniasis (VL) dogs, and presented no cross-reactivity with either sera from dogs vaccinated with a Brazilian commercial vaccine, or sera of Trypanosoma cruzi-infected or Ehrlichia canis-infected animals. In addition, the antigens were not recognized by antibodies from non-infected animals living in endemic or non-endemic areas for leishmaniasis. The immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the three proteins administered in the presence of saponin, individually or in combination (composing a polyproteins vaccine), were evaluated in a VL murine model: BALB/c mice infected with L. infantum. Spleen cells from mice inoculated with the individual proteins or with the polyproteins vaccine plus saponin showed a protein-specific production of IFN-γ, IL-12, and GM-CSF after an in vitro stimulation, which was maintained after infection. These animals presented significant reductions in the parasite burden in different evaluated organs, when compared to mice inoculated with saline or saponin. The decrease in parasite burden was associated with an IL-12-dependent production of IFN-γ against parasite total extracts (produced mainly by CD4+ T cells), correlated to the induction of parasite proteins-driven NO production. Mice inoculated with the recombinant protein-based vaccines showed also high levels of parasite-specific IgG2a antibodies. The polyproteins vaccine administration induced a more pronounced Th1 response before and after challenge infection than individual vaccines, which was correlated to a higher control of parasite dissemination to internal organs.

We have investigated whether von Willebrand factor, ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13), and D-Dimer were associated with different levels of renal function in patients with type 1 diabetes. Patients were classified according to level of renal function through estimated glomerular filtration rate: ≥90 and

The pathogenic role of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is well known. Anti-inflammatories and antioxidant drugs has demonstrated significant renoprotection in experimental nephropathies. Moreover, the inclusion of natural antioxidants derived from food and herbal extracts (such as polyphenols, curcumin and lycopene) as an adjuvant therapy for slowing CKD progression has been largely tested. Brazilian propolis is a honeybee product, whose anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant effects have been widely shown in models of sepsis, cancer, skin irritation and liver fibrosis. Furthermore, previous studies demonstrated that this compound promotes vasodilation and reduces hypertension. However, potential renoprotective effects of propolis in CKD have never been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a subtype of Brazilian propolis, the Red Propolis (RP), in the 5/6 renal ablation model (Nx). Adult male Wistar rats underwent Nx and were divided into untreated (Nx) and RP-treated (Nx+RP) groups, after 30 days of surgery; when rats already exhibited marked hypertension and proteinuria. Animals were observed for 90 days from the surgery day, when Nx+RP group showed significant reduction of hypertension, proteinuria, serum creatinine retention, glomerulosclerosis, renal macrophage infiltration and oxidative stress, compared to age-matched untreated Nx rats, which worsened progressively over time. In conclusion, RP treatment attenuated hypertension and structural renal damage in Nx model. Reduction of renal inflammation and oxidative stress could be a plausible mechanism to explain this renoprotection.