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Thais Pinheiro Callou, Renato Garcia, Adriana Mukai, Natalia T Giacomin, Rodrigo Guimarães de Souza, Samir J Bechara Department of Ophthalmology, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil Abstract: Femtosecond laser technology has become widely adopted by ophthalmic surgeons. The purpose of this study is to discuss applications and advantages of femtosecond lasers over traditional manual techniques, and related unique complications in cataract surgery and corneal refractive surgical procedures, including: LASIK flap creation, intracorneal ring segment implantation, presbyopic treatments, keratoplasty, astigmatic keratotomy, and intrastromal lenticule procedures. Keywords: laser therapy, refractive surgical procedures, intracorneal ring, laser in situ keratomileusis, keratoplasty, presbyopia, cataract extraction, astigmatism surgery

Rhodococcus erythropolis bacterium is known for its remarkable resistance characteristics that can be useful in several biotechnological processes, such as bioremediation. However, there is scarce knowledge concerning the behavior of this strain against different metals. This study sought to investigate the behavior of R. erythropolis ATCC 4277 against the residue of chalcopyrite and e-waste to verify both resistive capacities to the metals present in these residues and their potential use for biomining processes. These tests were carried out in a stirred tank bioreactor for 48 h, at 24ºC, pH 7.0, using a total volume of 2.0 L containing 2.5% (v/v) of a bacterial pre-culture. The pulp density of chalcopyrite was 5% (w/w), and agitation and oxygen flow rates were set to 250 rpm and 1.5 L O2  min -1 , respectively. On the other hand, we utilized a waste of computer printed circuit board (WPCB) with a pulp density of 10% (w/w), agitation at 400 rpm, and an oxygen flow rate of 3.0 L O2  min -1 . Metal concentration analyses post-fermentation showed that R. erythropolis ATCC 4277 was able to leach about 38% of the Cu present in the chalcopyrite residue (in ~ 24 h), and 49.5% of Fe, 42.3% of Ni, 27.4% of Al, and 15% Cu present in WPCB (in ~ 24 h). In addition, the strain survived well in the environment containing such metals, demonstrating the potential of using this bacterium for waste biomining processes as well as in other processes with these metals., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Computing demands for large scientific experiments, such as the CMS experiment at the CERN LHC, will increase dramatically in the next decades. To complement the future performance increases of software running on central processing units (CPUs), explorations of coprocessor usage in data processing hold great potential and interest. Coprocessors are a class of computer processors that supplement CPUs, often improving the execution of certain functions due to architectural design choices. We explore the approach of Services for Optimized Network Inference on Coprocessors (SONIC) and study the deployment of this as-a-service approach in large-scale data processing. In the studies, we take a data processing workflow of the CMS experiment and run the main workflow on CPUs, while offloading several machine learning (ML) inference tasks onto either remote or local coprocessors, specifically graphics processing units (GPUs). With experiments performed at Google Cloud, the Purdue Tier-2 computing center, and combinations of the two, we demonstrate the acceleration of these ML algorithms individually on coprocessors and the corresponding throughput improvement for the entire workflow. This approach can be easily generalized to different types of coprocessors and deployed on local CPUs without decreasing the throughput performance. We emphasize that the SONIC approach enables high coprocessor usage and enables the portability to run workflows on different types of coprocessors., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors declare no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

Conjunctivochalasis is a degenerative condition of the conjunctiva that disrupts tear distribution and causes irritation. Thermoreduction of the redundant conjunctiva is required if symptoms are not relieved with medical therapy. Near-infrared laser treatment is a more controlled method to shrink the conjunctiva than thermocautery. This study compared tissue shrinkage, histology, and postoperative inflammation in thermoconjunctivoplasty performed on the mouse conjunctiva using either thermocautery or pulsed 1460 nm near-infrared laser irradiation. Three sets of experiments were performed on female C57BL/6J mice ( n = 72, 26 per treatment group and 20 control) to assess conjunctival shrinkage, wound histology, and inflammation 3 and 10 days after treatment. Both treatments effectively shrunk the conjunctiva, but thermocautery caused greater epithelial damage. Thermocautery caused greater infiltration of neutrophils on day 3 and neutrophils and CD11b + myeloid cells on day 10. The thermocautery group had significantly higher conjunctival expression of IL-1β on day 3. Expression of chemokine CCL2 was higher in the conjunctiva on day 3 and tear concentrations were higher on day 7 in the laser group. These results suggest that pulsed laser treatment causes less tissue damage and postoperative inflammation than thermocautery while effectively addressing conjunctivochalasis.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) improves the quality of life of people living with HIV-1 (PLHIV) and reduces the mortality rate, but some individuals may develop metabolic abnormalities. This study evaluated changes in the nutritional status and biochemistry of PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy in a cohort that had not previously received ART and to follow up these individuals for 24 months after starting treatment. The initial cohort consisted of 110 individuals and ended with 42 people, assessed by a physical examination. A biochemical assay was performed using the colorimetric enzyme reaction technique, the proviral load was detected by qPCR and the quantification of the CD4/CD8 T lymphocytes was conducted by flow cytometry. PLHIV had increased levels of total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, ALT, urea and creatinine after 24 months of ART use ( p < 0.05). In the assessment of the nutritional status, PLHIV had increased measures of Triciptal Skinfold, body mass index and arm circumference after the use of ART ( p < 0.05). The viral load levels decreased and the CD4 levels increased after 24 months of ART use ( p < 0.05). The change in the nutritional status in PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy seems to be a slow process, occurring in the long term, therefore, there is the need for a constant evaluation of these people to identify patients who need a nutritional intervention.

Aging is associated with a massive infiltration of T lymphocytes in the lacrimal gland. Here, we aimed to characterize the immune phenotype of aged CD4 + T cells in this tissue as compared with lymphoid organs. To perform this, we sorted regulatory T cells (Tregs, CD4 + CD25 + GITR + ) and non-Tregs (CD4 + CD25 neg GITR neg ) in lymphoid organs from female C57BL/6J mice and subjected these cells to an immunology NanoString® panel. These results were confirmed by flow cytometry, live imaging, and tissue immunostaining in the lacrimal gland. Importantly, effector T helper 1 (Th1) genes were highly upregulated on aged Tregs, including the master regulator Tbx21. Among the non-Tregs, we also found a significant increase in the levels of EOMES med/high , Tbet neg IFN-γ + , and CD62L + CD44 neg CD4 + T cells with aging, which are associated with cell exhaustion, immunopathology, and the generation of tertiary lymphoid tissue. At the functional level, aged Tregs from lymphoid organs are less able to decrease proliferation and IFN-γ production of T responders at any age. More importantly, human lacrimal glands (age range 55-81 years) also showed the presence of CD4 + Foxp3 + cells. Further studies are needed to propose potential molecular targets to avoid immune-mediated lacrimal gland dysfunction with aging., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to American Aging Association.)

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the correlation between subjective and optical measurements used during cataract evaluation, including the iTrace Dysfunctional Lens Index (DLI), the HD Analyzer Objective Scatter Index (OSI), Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III), Visual Function-14 Questionnaire (VF-14), and the Pelli-Robson Contrast Sensitivity Chart (PRCSC)., Methods: Seventy eyes from 70 patients were enrolled, including all stages of age-related nuclear cataracts. The LOCS III-NO with a cutoff of 3.2 was chosen to divide the population into two groups. Eyes with corneal or retinal pathology were excluded. All patients were evaluated with the iTrace's DLI, HD Analyzer's OSI, LOCS III, VF-14, and the PRCSC during each follow-up visit. Correlation analyses were performed using Stata software, version 14.0, StataCorp., Results: The LOCS III-NO, DLI, OSI, and VF-14 questionnaire each correlated moderately with the BCVA with a Spearman rho value of 0.37, - 0.45, 0.40, and - 0.35, respectively. The DLI correlated moderately with LOCS III-NO with a rho value of - 0.37 and with the VF-14 questionnaire with a rho value of 0.35. The OSI correlated with both the contrast sensitivity and DLI with a rho value of - 0.35 and - 0.55, respectively., Conclusions: The DLI correlated with cataract symptoms (measured by the VF-14 questionnaire) in addition to BCVA. The OSI correlated moderately with contrast sensitivity and BCVA. The highest correlation was between DLI and OSI., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

The disease caused by the new type of coronavirus, Covid-19, has posed major public health challenges for many countries. With its rapid spread, since the beginning of the outbreak in December 2019, the disease transmitted by SARS-CoV-2 has already caused over 2 million deaths to date. In this work, we propose a web solution, called Heg.IA, to optimize the diagnosis of Covid-19 through the use of artificial intelligence. Our system aims to support decision-making regarding to diagnosis of Covid-19 and to the indication of hospitalization on regular ward, semi-ICU or ICU based on decision a Random Forest architecture with 90 trees. The main idea is that healthcare professionals can insert 41 hematological parameters from common blood tests and arterial gasometry into the system. Then, Heg.IA will provide a diagnostic report. The system reached good results for both Covid-19 diagnosis and to recommend hospitalization. For the first scenario we found average results of accuracy of 92.891%±0.851, kappa index of 0.858 ± 0.017, sensitivity of 0.936 ± 0.011, precision of 0.923 ± 0.011, specificity of 0.921 ± 0.012 and area under ROC of 0.984 ± 0.003. As for the indication of hospitalization, we achieved excellent performance of accuracies above 99% and more than 0.99 for the other metrics in all situations. By using a computationally simple method, based on the classical decision trees, we were able to achieve high diagnosis performance. Heg.IA system may be a way to overcome the testing unavailability in the context of Covid-19.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Inflammation and oxidative stress accompany aging. This study investigated the interplay between oxidative stress and inflammation in the lacrimal gland. C57BL/6 mice were used at 2 to 3, 12, and 24 months of age. Nuclear factor erythroid derived-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) -/- and corresponding wild-type mice were used at 2 to 3 and 12 to 13 months of age. A separate group of 15.5 to 17 months of age C57BL/6 mice received a diet containing an Nrf2 inducer (Oltipraz) for 8 weeks. Aged C57BL/6 lacrimal glands showed significantly greater lymphocytic infiltration, higher levels of MHC II, IFN-γ, IL-1β, TNF-α, and cathepsin S (Ctss) mRNA transcripts, and greater nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxynonenal protein. Young Nrf2 -/- mice showed an increase in IL-1β, IFN-γ, MHC II, and Ctss mRNA transcripts compared with young wild-type mice and greater age-related changes at 12 to 13 months of age. Oltipraz diet significantly decreased nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxynonenal and decreased the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α mRNA transcripts, while decreasing the frequency of CD45 + CD4 + cells in lacrimal glands and significantly increasing conjunctival goblet cell density compared with a standard diet. The findings provide novel insight into the development of chronic, low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress in age-related dry eye. New therapies targeting oxidative stress pathways will be valuable in treating age-related dry eye., (Copyright © 2021 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Abstract: The 2019-2020 coronavirus pandemic imposed unprecedented challenges in Brazilian governance sectors, mostly in the waste management system. Herein, we analyse the main challenges of the recycling sector in Brazil to cope with this scenario. Understanding difficulties during the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 can help improve waste recycling in the post-pandemic period in Brazil and other developing nations that face similar issues. The current pandemic exposed the deficiencies of this system, and some important lessons can be learned. Recommendations are drawn to advance the proper management of recyclables in the country. The Government must increase total investments in the recycling industry's infrastructure and support local recycling initiatives during a public health crisis and beyond. In sum, this paper strengthens the idea that waste segregation at the source and selective collection will not be sufficient without massive investments in the recycling sector's infrastructure. The future challenge includes strengthening the economic markets for recycled materials., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interestThe authors declare no conflict of interest., (© Zhejiang University Press 2021.)

In order to investigate a low-cost and sustainable food source, the present study evaluated the use of poultry litter for rearing Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera:  Tenebrionidae). The experiment was performed with five diets containing increasing levels of poultry litter (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) replacing the control diet and five replicates with 50 larvae per sample unit. Larval growth and development were evaluated and the chemical compositions of diet and T. molitor larvae were determined. Larval development and reproduction efficiency of T. molitor were similar in all treatments. The sole use of poultry litter to feed T. molitor reduced the crude protein of flour by only 8%. Including 50% or more poultry litter in the standard diet is the best-suited formulation for larvae production and incorporation of minerals in the larvae. Mealworm can be grown successfully on diets composed by poultry litter, the diet did not affect survival, growth, and development; however, studies spanning several insect generations should be performed to determine the effects of diet composition on adult fecundity. The knowledge acquired using poultry litter to feed T. molitor will be useful to carry out new research, in addition to evidencing the possibility of low-cost mass rearing of these larvae., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America.)

Dry eye disease (DED), one of the most prevalent conditions among the elderly, is a chronic inflammatory disorder that disrupts tear film stability and causes ocular surface damage. Aged C57BL/6J mice spontaneously develop DED. Rapamycin is a potent immunosuppressant that prolongs the lifespan of several species. Here, we compared the effects of daily instillation of eyedrops containing rapamycin or empty micelles for three months on the aged mice. Tear cytokine/chemokine profile showed a pronounced increase in vascular endothelial cell growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and a trend towards decreased concentration of Interferon gamma (IFN)-γ in rapamycin-treated groups. A significant decrease in inflammatory markers in the lacrimal gland was also evident ( IFN-γ , IL-12 , CIITA and Ctss ); this was accompanied by slightly diminished Unc-51 Like Autophagy Activating Kinase 1 ( ULK1 ) transcripts. In the lacrimal gland and draining lymph nodes, we also observed a significant increase in the CD45 + CD4 + Foxp3 + cells in the rapamycin-treated mice. More importantly, rapamycin eyedrops increased conjunctival goblet cell density and area compared to the empty micelles. Taken together, evidence from these studies indicates that topical rapamycin has therapeutic efficacy for age-associated ocular surface inflammation and goblet cell loss and opens the venue for new investigations on its role in the aging process of the eye.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of early-life exposure to different extracts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (A. cantonensis) on airway inflammation in an allergic asthma model. The total soluble extract (TE) and the soluble extracts of the digestive (AcD), reproductive (AcR), and cuticle (AcC) systems of A. cantonensis were used for immunisation before ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitisation/challenge in an OVA-induced allergic asthma model. The initial hypothesis of the study was that some soluble extract of the systems (AcD, AcR, or AcC) could be more potent to the modulation of inflammation than the TE. Our data, however, shows that immunisation with the TE is more promising because it decreased the high influx of inflammatory cells on airways and promoted an increase of interferon-γ (IFN-ɣ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels. Besides this, the immunisation with the TE also led to a reduction of goblet cells and mucus overproduction in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice. We believe that the extracts have a distinct capacity to modulate the immune system, due to the TE possessing a greater variability of molecules, which together leads to control of airway inflammation. In conclusion, this is the first study to reveal that the TE of A. cantonensis adult worms has a greater potential for developing a novel therapeutic for allergic asthma.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of voclosporin (VOS) in preventing goblet cell (GC) loss and modulating interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) producing CD4 + T cells in the mouse desiccating stress (DS) dry eye model. Methods: Mice were subjected to DS and treated topically with vehicle, VOS, or cyclosporine A as a treatment control. Corneal barrier function was evaluated after 5 and conjunctival GC density after 10 days of desiccation. CD4 + T cells were isolated from ocular surface draining lymph nodes of dry eye donor mice and adoptively transferred into immune deficient RAG1 -/- mice from which tears and conjunctiva were collected for the evaluation of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and GC density. Results: Compared to the vehicle-treated group, VOS was significantly better in preserving corneal barrier function and preventing DS-induced conjunctival GC loss. CD4 + T cells from VOS treated dry eye donors caused less conjunctival GC loss than vehicle and suppressed expression of IFN-γ signature genes to a similar extent and transforming growth factor-beta to a greater extent than cyclosporine in adoptive transfer recipients. Conclusion: These findings suggest that VOS preserves corneal barrier function and conjunctival GCs and suppresses IFN-γ producing CD4 + T cells in experimental dry eye.

Background and Aims: Many patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have comorbidities related to metabolic syndrome (MS) during the disease course. Its presence in different ethnicities and continents places MS as an important risk factor for COVID-19. Adequate understanding of the interplay between MS, COVID-19 and proposed therapies is required for optimum management of these patients., Methods: We systematically searched the PubMed and Google Scholar databases until June 1st, 2020 and accessed the full text on COVID-19 and MS to prepare a narrative review on this topic., Results: Patients with metabolic disorders like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular and liver disease may face a higher risk of infection of COVID-19, greatly affecting the development and prognosis of the disease, being associated with significantly worse outcome in these patients. The proposed drugs that are in clinical trial for COVID-19 treatment must be carefully considered for clinical use, especially in patients with MS., Conclusion: MS is a risk factor influencing the progression and prognosis of COVID-2019. The drugs currently evaluated for the infection treatment are promising but need further studies to prove their efficacy and safety, due to the adverse effects may be exacerbated by combination therapy or due to viral infection. The development of a vaccine for immunization is still the best long-term solution., (Copyright © 2020 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

To compare goblet cell (GC) number and area in the covered superior (SB) versus exposed temporal (TB) bulbar conjunctiva in control versus aqueous tear deficient eyes (ATD) and evaluate correlation with tear MUC5AC protein. SB and TB impression cytology performed on control eyes, Sjögren syndrome (SS) ATD, and non-SS ATD was stained with period acid Schiff. GC number and area were measured with image analysis software. Protein-normalized MUC5AC level was measured in Schirmer strip-collected tears. Compared to control conjunctiva, GC number and area were significantly lower in SS, non-SS, and combined ATD groups in exposed TB, and were also significantly lower in SS and combined ATD groups in covered SB. In all ATD, GC number and area were significantly correlated, but differences between SB and TB were non-significant. Normalized tear MUC5AC protein was lower in all ATD groups versus control eyes, and correlated only with GC area. GCs are significantly decreased in the covered and exposed conjunctiva in SS. GC area may be a better disease measure than number for ATD. Correlation between tear MUC5AC concentration and GC area suggests tear MUC5AC mucin can be used as a disease-relevant biomarker for conjunctiva GC health.

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of total keratometry (TK) and standard keratometry (K) from a swept-source optical coherence tomography biometer for intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in eyes with previous corneal refractive surgery., Setting: Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA., Design: Retrospective case series., Methods: The differences between the TK and K and their association with K were assessed. For IOL power calculation, combinations of 1) K with Haigis, Haigis-L, and Barrett True-K, and 2) TK with Haigis (Haigis-TK) were used. The mean absolute error (MAE) and the percentages of eyes within prediction errors of ± 0.50 diopters (D), ± 1.00 D, and ± 2.00 D were calculated., Results: The study comprised 129 eyes. For Haigis, Haigis-L, Barrett True-K, and Haigis-TK, respectively, the MAEs were 0.72 D, 0.61 D, 0.54 D, and 0.50 D in the myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)/photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) group, and 0.74 D, 0.68 D, 0.71 D, and 0.70 D in hyperopic LASIK/PRK group. For the radial keratotomy (RK) eyes, the MAEs were 0.66 D, 0.71 D, and 0.72 D for the Haigis, Barrett True-K, and Haigis-TK formulas, respectively. In the myopic LASIK/PRK group, the Barrett True-K and Haigis-TK produced significantly lower MAEs than did Haigis (P < .05). In the hyperopic LASIK/PRK and RK groups, there were no significant differences between the formulas in MAEs and percentages of eyes within the above prediction errors., Conclusions: The performance of the combination of Haigis and TK in refractive prediction was comparable with Haigis-L and Barrett True-K in eyes with previous corneal refractive surgery., (Copyright © 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study was to explore the role and mechanism of macrophages in pollen-triggered allergic inflammation. A murine model of short ragweed (SRW) pollen-induced experimental allergic conjunctivitis (EAC), and bone marrow (BM)-macrophages cultures were used. Typical allergic manifestations and TSLP-stimulated Th2 hyperresponse were observed in ocular surface of EAC model in wild-type (WT) mice induced by SRW. The M2 phenotype markers, Arg1, Ym1 and FIZZ1, were highly expressed by conjunctiva and draining cervical lymph nodes (CLNs) of WT-EAC mice when compared with controls, as evaluated by RT-qPCR and Immunofluorescent double staining with macrophage marker F4/80. The stimulated expression of TSLPR and OX40L by macrophage was detected in conjunctiva and CLNs by RT-qPCR, double staining, and flow cytometry. M2 macrophages were found to produce TARC and MDC. In contrast, EAC model with TSLPR -/- mice did not show allergic signs and any increase of Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) and M2 markers. In vitro cultures confirmed that SRW extract stimulates expression of TSLPR, OX40L, TARC, MDC, and three M2 markers by BM-macrophages from WT mice, but not from TSLPR -/- mice. These findings demonstrate that SRW pollen primes macrophage polarization toward to M2 phenotype via TSLP/TSLPR/OX40L signaling to amplify allergic inflammation.

Aging is a significant risk factor for dry eye. Here we used a murine aging model to investigate the effects of aging on antigen presenting cells (APCs) and generation of pathogenic T helper (Th)-1 cells. Our results showed that APCs from aged mice accumulate at the conjunctiva, have higher levels of co-activation marker CD86 and lower aldehyde dehydrogenase activity. Using topical ovalbumin peptide as a surrogate antigen, we observed an increased number of antigen-loaded APCs in the draining cervical lymph nodes in the aged group and loss of tight junction protein occludin in the conjunctiva. Aged cervical lymph nodes APCs showed a greater generation of Th1 cells than young APCs in antigen-presentation assays in vitro. Aged lacrimal glands, and draining nodes showed an accumulation of IFN-γ producing CD4 + T cells, while Th-17 cells were present only in aged draining nodes. There was also an age-related increase in CD4 + CXCR3 + IFN-γ + cells in the conjunctiva, nodes, and lacrimal glands while CD4 + CCR6 + IL-17A + cells increased in the draining nodes of aged mice. Adoptive transfer of aged CD4 + CXCR3 + cells into young, naive immunodeficient recipients caused greater goblet cell loss than young CD4 + CXCR3 + donor cells. Our results demonstrate that age-associated changes in APCs are critical for the pathogenesis of age-related dry eye.

Aging is a complex process associated with dysregulation of the immune system and low levels of inflammation, often associated with the onset of many pathologies. The lacrimal gland (LG) plays a vital role in the maintenance of ocular physiology and changes related to aging directly affect eye diseases. The dysregulation of the immune system in aging leads to quantitative and qualitative changes in antibodies and cytokines. While there is a gradual decline of the immune system, there is an increase in autoimmunity, with a reciprocal pathway between low levels of inflammation and aging mechanisms. Elderly C57BL/6J mice spontaneously show LGs infiltration that is characterized by Th1 but not Th17 cells. The aging of the LG is related to functional alterations, reduced innervation and decreased secretory activities. Lymphocytic infiltration, destruction, and atrophy of glandular parenchyma, ductal dilatation, and secretion of inflammatory mediators modify the volume and composition of tears. Oxidative stress, the capacity to metabolize and eliminate toxic substances decreased in aging, is also associated with the reduction of LG functionality and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although further studies are required for a better understanding of autoimmunity and aging of the LG, we described anatomic and immunology aspects that have been described so far., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: The authors declare no potential conflicts of interests.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a specific form of interstitial pneumonia. In addition to the idiopathic cause, it may be caused by drugs such as bleomycin (BLM)-used in the treatment of tumors. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP) is a high-energy endogenous glycolytic compound that has antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of FBP on both BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice and in a human embryonic lung fibroblast (MRC-5) culture system. C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups: control, FBP, BLM, and BLM plus FBP. A single dose of bleomycin (7.5 U/kg) was administered intratracheally, and survival, body weight, Ashcroft score, and histological analysis were evaluated. Pulmonary function and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were also evaluated after a single dose of bleomycin (1.2 U/kg-intratracheally). Treatment with FBP (500 mg/kg) was given on day 0 intraperitoneally. Fibroblasts (MRC-5 cells) were used to access the effect of FBP in vitro. In vivo, FBP increased the survival rate and reduced body weight loss (BLM vs. BLM plus FBP-p < 0.05). FBP also prevented BLM-induced loss of pulmonary function and decreased BALF inflammatory cells, level of fibrosis, and superficial collagen density (p < 0.05). In vitro, FBP (0.62 and 1.25 mM) had inhibitory activity on MRC-5 cells and was able to induce senescence in fibroblasts. These results showed that FBP has the potential of reducing the toxic effects of BLM and may provide supportive therapy for conventional methods used for the treatment of cancer.

Conjunctival goblet cell loss in ocular surface diseases is accompanied by increased number of interleukin-12 (IL-12)-producing antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and increased interferon-γ (IFN-γ) expression. This study tested the hypothesis that mouse conjunctival goblet cells produce biologically active retinoic acid (RA) that suppresses CD86 expression and IL-12 production by myeloid cells. We found that conditioned media from cultured conjunctival goblet cells (CjCM) suppressed stimulated CD86 expression, NF-κB p65 activation and IL-12 and IFN-γ production in unstimulated and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cultured bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) containing a mixed population of APCs. Goblet cell-conditioned, ovalbumin-loaded APCs suppressed IFN-γ production and increased IL-13 production in co-cultured OTII cells. The goblet cell suppressive activity is due in part to their ability to synthesize RA from retinol. Conjunctival goblet cells had greater expression of aldehyde dehydrogenases Aldh1a1 and a3 and ALDEFLUOR activity than cornea epithelium lacking goblet cells. The conditioning activity was lost in goblet cells treated with an ALDH inhibitor, and a retinoid receptor alpha antagonist blocked the suppressive effects of CjCM on IL-12 production. Similar to RA, CjCM increased expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) in BMDCs. SOCS3 silencing reversed the IL-12-suppressive effects of CjCM. Our findings indicate that conjunctival goblet cells are capable of synthesizing RA from retinol secreted by the lacrimal gland into tears that can condition APCs. Evidence suggests goblet cell RA may function in maintaining conjunctival immune tolerance and loss of conjunctival goblet cells may contribute to increased Th1 priming in dry eye.

CD25 knock-out (CD25KO) mice spontaneously develop Sjögren Syndrome (SS)-like inflammation. We investigated the role of commensal bacteria by comparing CD25KO mice housed in conventional or germ-free conditions. Germ-free CD25KO mice have greater corneal barrier dysfunction, lower goblet cell density, increased total lymphocytic infiltration score, increased expression of IFN-γ, IL-12 and higher a frequency of CD4 + IFN-γ + cells than conventional mice. CD4 + T cells isolated from female germ-free CD25KO mice adoptively transferred to naive immunodeficient RAG1KO recipients caused more severe Sjögren-like disease than CD4 + T cells transferred from conventional CD25KO mice. Fecal transplant in germ-free CD25KO mice reversed the spontaneous dry eye phenotype and decreased the generation of pathogenic CD4 + IFN-γ + cells. Our studies indicate that lack of commensal bacteria accelerates the onset and severity of dacryoadenitis and generates autoreactive CD4 + T cells with greater pathogenicity in the CD25KO model, suggesting that the commensal bacteria or their metabolites products have immunoregulatory properties that protect exocrine glands in the CD25KO SS model., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The Crocodyliformes are the most represented vertebrate clade in the Upper Cretaceous sequences of the Bauru Group, Paraná Basin. However, some of the species described have an uncertain taxonomic status and phylogenetic position. For instance, "Goniopholis" paulistanus has been assigned as a nomem dubium, due to its description being based on scarce material. The "G". paulistanus specimens (i.e. teeth and a left tibia) were discovered in two different localities in São Paulo state: Mirandópolis and Valparaíso municipalities; where the upper interval of the Adamantina Formation (Early Maastrichtian of Bauru Group) crops out. Revisiting these specimens, we observed multicrenulated teeth in middle dentary toot- row, a remarkable feature only shared with teleosaurids Machimosaurus hugii (Upper Jurassic of Laurasia) and M. rex (Lower Cretaceous of Tunisia). This apomorphy was also recognized in new material from the Alfredo Marcondes municipality (Presidente Prudente Formation), which are here also referred to "G". paulistanus. We recognized the teeth of "G." paulistanus as the lectotype, however the tibia cannot be assigned to a species as it was not collected in association with the teeth. We performed a phylogenetic analysis with a data matrix composed of 388 characters and 86 taxa, analyzed in TNT. The strict consensus tree recovered Neosuchia and Ziphosuchia (Notosuchia + Sebecia) within Mesoeucrocodylia. The species "G" paulistanus is valid, as a distinct and new genus within Sebecia, in a polytomy with Barreirosuchus, Pepesuchus, Itasuchus and Peirosaurus, forming the clade Itasuchidae. Stolokrosuchus is the sister taxon to Itasuchidae, the sister group of all other Sebecia (Peirosauridae (Mahajangasuchidae + Sebecidae and taxa affinis)). The clades Ziphosuchia, Sebecia and Itasuchidae are here redefined, and we find the last two clades to be more closely related to terrestrial notosuchids than to semiaquatic neosuchians., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Background: Severe asthma in children is a global health problem. Severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA) in children is a major clinical challenge due to persistent symptoms despite high doses of corticosteroids and results in high public health costs. Omalizumab (anti-IgE monoclonal antibody) has been described as an effective add-on therapy in these patients. The characteristics of children with STRA from low- and middle-income countries have scarcely been reported, and no real-life study has been published on the effects of omalizumab in this group of patients. The aim of our study is to report the first clinical real-life experiences with omalizumab in Brazilian children with STRA., Methods: Children (6-18 years old) from a referral center who were diagnosed with STRA were included in this retrospective study based on our clinical databases. The included children had undergone at least 6 months of omalizumab treatment and fulfilled the following initial criteria: 1) >6 years old; 2) a positive skin-prick test for at least one aeroallergen; and 3) a serum total IgE level between 30 and 1500 IU/mL. Clinical and lung function variables were analyzed before and after treatment., Results: Fourteen children (mean age: 11.9 years; percentage female: 72%) were included in this study. Omalizumab treatment significantly increased control of the disease according to a standardized questionnaire administered at every visit (P < 0.0001), ceased hospitalizations in 70% (P = 0.02) of patients, and allowed 8/9 (89%) patients to be weaned off oral steroids (P = 0.004)., Conclusions: In this retrospective report, the use of omalizumab in Brazilian children with STRA significantly improved disease control, decreased hospitalizations, and allowed suspension of continuous oral corticosteroids., (© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

This research evaluated the influence of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) on lesions of the facial nerve repaired with the end-to-side technique or coaptation with a new heterologous fibrin sealant. Thirty-two Wistar rats were separated into 5 groups: Control group (CG), where the buccal branch of the facial nerve was collected; Experimental Suture Group (ESG) and Experimental Fibrin Group (EFG), in which the buccal branch was end-to-side sutured to the zygomatic branch on the right side of the face or coaptated with fibrin sealant on the left side; Experimental Suture Laser Group (ESLG) and Experimental Fibrin Laser Group (EFLG), in which the same procedures were performed as the ESG and EFG, associated with PBMT (wavelength of 830nm, energy density 6.2J/cm 2 , power output 30mW, beam area of 0.116cm 2 , power density 0.26W/cm 2 , total energy per session 2.16J, cumulative dose of 34.56J). The laser was applied for 24s/site at 3 points on the skin's surface, for a total application time of 72s, performed immediately after surgery and 3 times a week for 5weeks. A statistically significant difference was observed in the fiber nerve area between the EFG and EFLG (57.49±3.13 and 62.52±3.56μm 2 , respectively). For the area of the axon, fiber diameter, axon diameter, myelin sheath area and myelin sheath thickness no statistically significant differences were found (p<0.05). The functional recovery of whisker movement occurred faster in the ESLG and EFLG, which were associated with PBMT, with results closer to the CG. Therefore, PBMT accelerated morphological and functional nerve repair in both techniques., (Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Objective and approach: In this study, we estimated the constant phase model (CPM) parameters from the respiratory impedance of male BALB/c mice by performing the forced oscillation technique (FOT) in a control group (n  =  8) and in a murine model of asthma (OVA) (n  =  10). Then, we compared the results obtained by two different methods, using a commercial equipment (flexiVent-flexiWare 7.X; SCIREQ, Montreal, Canada) (FXV) and a wavetube method equipment (Sly et al 2003 J. Appl. Physiol. 94 1460-6) (WVT). We believe that the results from different methods may not be comparable. First, we compared the results performing a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the resistance, elastance and tissue damping., Main Results: We found statistically significant differences in all CPM parameters, except for resistance, when comparing Control and OVA groups. When comparing devices, we found statistically significant differences in resistance, while differences in elastance were not observed. For tissue damping, the results from WVT were observed to be higher than those from FXV. Finally, when comparing the relative variation between the CPM parameters of the Control and OVA groups in both devices, no significant differences were observed for all parameters., Significance: We then conclude that this assessment can compensate the effect of using different cannulas. Furthermore, tissue damping differences between groups can be compensated, since bronchoconstrictors were not used. Therefore, we believe that relative variations in the results between groups can be a comparing parameter when using different equipment without bronchoconstrictor administration.

Background: OM-85 is an immunostimulant bacterial lysate, which has been proven effective in reducing the number of lower airways infections. We investigated the efficacy of the bacterial lysate OM-85 in the primary prevention of a murine model of asthma., Methods: In the first phase of our study the animals received doses of 0.5μg, 5μg and 50μg of OM-85 through gavage for five days (days -10 to -6 of the protocol), 10 days prior to starting the sensitisation with ovalbumin (OVA), in order to evaluate the results of dose-response protocols. A single dose (5μg) was then chosen in order to verify in detail the effect of OM-85 on the pulmonary allergic response. Total/differential cells count and cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and IFN-γ) from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), OVA-specific IgE levels from serum, lung function and lung histopathological analysis were evaluated., Results: OM-85 did not reduce pulmonary eosinophilic response, regardless of the dose used. In the phase protocol using 5μg/animal of OM-85, no difference was shown among the groups studied, including total cell and eosinophil counts in BALF, serum OVA-specific IgE, lung histopathologic findings and lung resistance. However, OM-85 decreased IL-5 and IL-13 levels in BALF., Conclusions: OM-85, administered in early life in mice in human-equivalent doses, does not inhibit the development of allergic pulmonary response in mice., (Copyright © 2016 SEICAP. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Brazil has an increasing rate of e-waste generation, but there are currently few adequate management systems in operation, with the largest share of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) going to landfill sites or entering informal chains. The National Solid Waste Policy (2010) enforces the implementation of reverse logistics systems under the shared responsibility of consumers, companies and governments. The objective of this paper is to assess sustainability and prioritise system alternatives for potential implementation in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro. Sustainability criteria and decision alternatives were defined by elicitation of stakeholders. The adopted multicriteria approach combines Life Cycle Assessment with qualitative evaluations by a small sample of regional experts with knowledge of the problem. The recommended system consists of a hybrid WEEE collection scheme with delivery points at shops, metro stations and neighbourhood centres; a pre-treatment phase with the involvement of private companies, cooperatives and social enterprises; and full recycling of all components in the country., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Adversities faced during the prenatal period can be related to the onset of diseases in adulthood. However, little is known about the effects on the respiratory system. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of prenatal stress in two different time-points during pregnancy on pulmonary function and on the inflammatory profile of mice exposed to an asthma model. Male and female BALB/c mice were divided into 3 groups: control (CON), prenatal stress from the second week of pregnancy (PNS1) and prenatal stress on the last week of pregnancy (PNS2). Both PNS1 and PNS2 pregnant females were submitted to restraint stress. As adults, fear/anxiety behaviors were assessed, and animals were subjected to an asthma model induced by ovalbumin. Pulmonary function, inflammatory parameters in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and histology were evaluated. There was a significant decrease in the number of entries and time spent in the central quadrant on the open field test for the PNS1 animals. Females (PNS1) showed improved pulmonary function (airway resistance, tissue damping and pulmonary elastance), significant increase in the percentage of neutrophils and lymphocytes and a decrease in eosinophils when compared to controls. There was a significant decrease in inflammatory cytokines in BAL of both males (IL-5 and IL-13) and females (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) from PNS1 and PNS2 when compared to the CON group. Prenatal stress starting from the beginning of pregnancy reduces the impact of asthma development in adult female mice, showing an improved pulmonary function and a lower inflammatory response in the lungs., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that leads to bone fragility and is associated with fracture risks and serious consequences for mobility., Objective: To verify the effects of two linear programs of resistance training (RT) on bone mineral density (BMD), functional autonomy (FA), muscular strength and quality of life (QoL) of postmenopausal women in pharmacological treatment., Study Design: Randomized controlled trial, code: RBR-6bqsw8., Methods: 52 volunteers were distributed into three groups, according to randomly parallel form: RT3times-per-week (RT3, n=20); RT2times-per-week (RT2, n=16) and control group (CG, n=16). The following assessment tools were used: bone mineral density (BMD) by dual X-ray absorptiometry, 'Latin America Group for maturity' (GDLAM) protocol for FA, 10RM test for leg exercises and the 'Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire' (OPAQ) for QoL. The physical activities were planned for 13 months in cycles with different intensities. A two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc test were used., Results: The results showed that the RT3/week was significantly more efficient (p<0.05) compared with RT2/week, including: All BMD variables, FA (Δ%=29.3%), leg press at 45° (Δ%=24.97%) and OPAQ (Δ%=20.23%). In addition, both RT3 and RT2 groups were more efficient (p<0.05) compared with CG, including: total BMD (Δ%=0.09%) and (Δ%=0.06%); FA (Δ%=7.1%) and RT2 (Δ%=3.78%); Leg press at 45° (Δ%=84.1%) and (Δ%=59.1%); keen extension (Δ%=15.28%) and (Δ%=20.37%); OPAQ (Δ%=57.61%) and (Δ%=37.37%), respectively., Conclusion: The study showed that both experimental groups presented favorable results for BMD, strength, FA and QoL. However, the RT3 showed the best results compared to other groups after 13 months of intervention., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The inflammatory cells infiltrating the airways produce several mediators, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS and the oxidant-antioxidant imbalance might play an important role in the modulation of airways inflammation. In order to avoid the undesirable effects of ROS, various endogenous antioxidant strategies have evolved, incorporating both enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms. Recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) in clinical studies demonstrated a reduction in sputum viscosity, cleaving extracellular DNA in the airways, and facilitating mucus clearance, but an antioxidant effect was not studied so far. Therefore, we evaluated whether the administration of rhDNase improves oxidative stress in a murine model of asthma. Mice were sensitized by two subcutaneous injections of ovalbumin (OVA), on days 0 and 7, followed by three lung challenges with OVA on days 14, 15, and 16. On days 15 and 16, after 2 h of the challenge with OVA, mice received 1 mg/mL of rhDNase in the lungs. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue were obtained on day 17, for inflammatory and oxidative stress analysis. We showed that rhDNase did not alter the population of inflammatory cells, such as eosinophil cells, in OVA-treated rhDNase group but significantly improved oxidative stress in lung tissue, by decreasing oxygen reactive species and increasing superoxide dismutase/catalase ratio, glutathione peroxidase activity, and thiol content. Our data provide the first evidence that rhDNase decreases some measures of oxidative stress and antioxidant status in a murine model of asthma, with a potential antioxidant effect to be further studied in human asthma.

Purpose: Asthma is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness to allergens, airway edema, and increased mucus secretion. Such mucus can be liquefied by recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase), in which efficacy of rhDNase has been well documented in patients with cystic fibrosis, but little studied in asthma. In the present study, we investigated whether rhDNase intranasal administration improved inflammation and pulmonary function in an experimental model of asthma., Methods: Mice were sensitized by two subcutaneous injections of ovalbumin (OVA), on days 0 and 7, followed by three intranasal challenges with OVA on days 14, 15, and 16. A control group, replacing OVA by DPBS, was included. On days 15 and 16, after 2 hours of OVA challenge, mice received 1 mg/mL of intranasal rhDNase., Results: We showed that rhDNase decreased significantly the airway resistance and reduced EETs formation and globet cells hyperplasia., Conclusions: Our results suggest that extracellular DNA in mucus play a role in lower airways obstruction in OVA asthma protocol and that the treatment with rhDNase improved lung function and DNA extracellular traps, with no direct cellular anti-inflammatory effects.

Background: Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Tp) is a source of aeroallergen that causes allergic diseases., Objective: To describe an acute and chronic murine model of allergic asthma with Tp extract with no systemic sensitization and no use of adjuvant., Methods: Mites from dust sample were cultured and a raw extract was produced. Female BALB/c mice (6-8 weeks) were challenged intranasally with Tp extract or Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline, for 10 consecutive days (acute protocol) or for 6 weeks (chronic protocol). Twenty-four hours after the last intranasal challenge, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was performed for total and differential cells count, cytokine analysis, and eosinophil peroxidase activity. Lung tissue was also removed for histopathologic analysis., Results: Tp extract has shown a significant increase in total cells count from BALF as well as an increase in absolute eosinophils count, eosinophil peroxidase activity, interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13 levels, in both acute and chronic protocols. Peribronchovascular infiltrate, goblet cells hyperplasia and collagen deposition were shown in the airways of acute and chronic Tp-exposed mice., Conclusion: Our data suggest that the intranasal exposure to Tp extract, with no systemic sensitization and no use of adjuvants, induces a robust allergic inflammation in the lungs of mice, in both acute and chronic models. Our Tp extract seems to be a potent allergen extract which may be used in asthma model studies.

Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics, lung function, radiological findings, and the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum in children and adolescents with severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA) treated at a referral center in southern Brazil., Methods: We retrospectively analyzed children and adolescents (3-18 years of age) with uncontrolled STRA treated with high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β2 agonists. We prospectively collected data on disease control, lung function, skin test reactivity to allergens, the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum, chest CT findings, and esophageal pH monitoring results., Results: We analyzed 21 patients (mean age, 9.2 ± 2.98 years). Of those, 18 (86%) were atopic. Most had uncontrolled asthma and near-normal baseline lung function. In 4 and 7, induced sputum was found to be eosinophilic and neutrophilic, respectively; the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum having changed in 67% of those in whom induced sputum analysis was repeated. Of the 8 patients receiving treatment with omalizumab (an anti-IgE antibody), 7 (87.5%) showed significant improvement in quality of life, as well as significant reductions in the numbers of exacerbations and hospitalizations., Conclusions: Children with STRA present with near-normal lung function and a variable airway inflammatory pattern during clinical follow-up, showing a significant clinical response to omalizumab. In children, STRA differs from that seen in adults, further studies being required in order to gain a better understanding of the disease mechanisms.

Diabetes is a condition of multifactorial origin, involving several molecular mechanisms related to the intestinal microbiota for its development. In type 2 diabetes, receptor activation and recognition by microorganisms from the intestinal lumen may trigger inflammatory responses, inducing the phosphorylation of serine residues in insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing insulin sensitivity. In type 1 diabetes, the lowered expression of adhesion proteins within the intestinal epithelium favours a greater immune response that may result in destruction of pancreatic β cells by CD8+ T-lymphocytes, and increased expression of interleukin-17, related to autoimmunity. Research in animal models and humans has hypothesized whether the administration of probiotics may improve the prognosis of diabetes through modulation of gut microbiota. We have shown in this review that a large body of evidence suggests probiotics reduce the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, as well as increase the expression of adhesion proteins within the intestinal epithelium, reducing intestinal permeability. Such effects increase insulin sensitivity and reduce autoimmune response. However, further investigations are required to clarify whether the administration of probiotics can be efficiently used for the prevention and management of diabetes.

Improving the process of how physical performance is enhanced is one of the main topics evaluated by physiologists. This process often involves athletes and nonathletic populations. The purpose of this study was to assess the chronic response to 10 weeks of static stretching exercises carried out before and during a strength training program for 8 exercises on an 8 repetition maximum (8RM) test performance, and basal serum insulinlike growth factor (IGF-1) levels. Thirty recreationally trained volunteers were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 training groups: (a) SBST (performed a warm-up with a static stretching protocol before each strength training session); (b) SDST (before each training set, a static stretching exercise was performed); and (c) OST (entire session was performed without any type of stretching exercise). Strength and IGF-1 levels were collected at the beginning (pretest) and end (posttest) of the entire experimental procedure. All the exercises showed a significant increase in muscle strength for the OST group. However, the results revealed a significant increase in the muscle strength for only a few exercises in the SBST (LP, LE) and SDST (LP) experimental conditions. Significant statistical differences were found between SBST and SDST for all the exercises in the OST experimental condition. Furthermore, the IGF-1 expression showed no significant differences in the intragroup analysis. However, the OST group showed higher values (p < 0.05) in the posttest when compared with those of the other groups (increased significantly only in the OST experimental condition). It has been concluded that, although all the groups showed an increase in muscular strength, the strength training performed without any type of stretching exercise, regardless of whether the stretching is performed before or during the lifting session, can more effectively increase muscle strength and basal serum IGF-1 levels. It was concluded that strength training, with or without the use of stretching exercises, increased muscular strength in the studied groups, and can induce an increase in IGF-1 levels.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of an AAG on BMD, osteocalcin and functional autonomy in older women. The sample consisted of eighty-two post-menopausal women with low BMD, randomly divided into two groups: the Aquatic Aerobics Group [AAG; n=42; age: 66.8±4.2years], submitted to two weekly sessions over eight months, and the Control Group (GC; n=42; age: 66.9±3.2years), which did not participate in regular exercise. BMD was measured by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry [DXA] of the lumbar and femur, and serum osteocalcin was measured using electrochemiluminescence. A functional autonomy assessment protocol (GDLAM, 2004) was also applied. Statistical analyses used were repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests. The results showed a significant improvement in tests following the GDLAM protocol: 10 meters walk (10mw) -p=0.003; rising from a ventral decubitus position (RVDP) - Δ%=0.78, p<0.001; rising from a chair and moving around the house (RCMH) -p<0.001 and autonomy index (AI) -p=0.007, with more favorable results observed in the AAG when compared to the CG. The AAG achieved the best results for BMD; however, no inter or intragroup statistical differences were recorded for total femur -p=0.975 and lumbar L(2)-L(4)p=0.597. For serum osteocalcin, intra and intergroup statistical differences of p=0.042 and p=0.027 were observed in the AAG, respectively. This demonstrates that an eight-month aquatic aerobic exercise program can improve functional autonomy and osteocalcin levels, although training did not improve lumbar and total femur BMD in the older women., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of a ballroom dancing program on the functional autonomy and physical balance of institutionalized elderly individuals. The study enrolled 75 sedentary elderly subjects from long-term institutions who were randomly divided into a ballroom dance program group (EG; n=39) and a control group (CG; n=36). The protocol of the Latin American Group for Maturity (GDLAM) was used to evaluate functional autonomy. Physical balance was analyzed using a stabilometer and posture meter platforms. The level of significance in statistical tests was set at p<0.05. Regarding the physical balance evaluation, only the members of the EG achieved a significant reduction in weight (Δ=-0.98 kg) following the experiment, both in the intragroup (p=0.002) and in the intergroup analysis (p=0.012). In the evaluation of functional autonomy, only the EG showed a significant reduction in the execution time of all the tests and in the GDLAM index: GI (Δ=-6.99), both in the intragroup (p<0.001) and in the intergroup analysis (p=0.011). Thus, it can be inferred that sedentary elderly individuals who are residents of long-term institutions can improve their functional autonomy and balance with a ballroom dance program., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the neural mobilization technique on electromyography function, disability degree, and pain in patients with leprosy., Methods: A sample of 56 individuals with leprosy was randomized into an experimental group, composed of 29 individuals undergoing treatment with neural mobilization, and a control group of 27 individuals who underwent conventional treatment. In both groups, the lesions in the lower limbs were treated. In the treatment with neural mobilization, the procedure used was mobilization of the lumbosacral roots and sciatic nerve biased to the peroneal nerve that innervates the anterior tibial muscle, which was evaluated in the electromyography., Results: Analysis of the electromyography function showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the experimental group in both the right (Δ%=22.1, p=0.013) and the left anterior tibial muscles (Δ%=27.7, p=0.009), compared with the control group pre- and post-test. Analysis of the strength both in the movement of horizontal extension (Δ%right=11.7, p=0.003/Δ%left=27.4, p=0.002) and in the movement of back flexion (Δ%right=31.1; p=0.000/Δ%left=34.7, p=0.000) showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in both the right and the left segments when comparing the experimental group pre- and post-test. The experimental group showed a significant reduction (p=0.000) in pain perception and disability degree when the pre- and post-test were compared and when compared with the control group in the post-test., Conclusions: Leprosy patients undergoing the technique of neural mobilization had an improvement in electromyography function and muscle strength, reducing disability degree and pain.

Reduced glutamatergic signaling may contribute to cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. Glutamatergic synapses might be the site of primary abnormalities in this disorder with the dopaminergic changes being secondary to altered glutamatergic transmission. Isolation rearing of rats from weaning has been used as an experimental model for affective disorders like schizophrenia. In this immunohistochemistry study we evaluate the changes in the expression of GluR1 and GluR2 AMPA receptors in the hippocampus, amygdala and entorhinal cortex induced by isolation rearing. Two groups of Wistar rats (grouped and isolated, n = 6/each) were used. Isolation rearing induced a significant decrease in GluR1- and GluR2-immunopositive cells in the hippocampus. For GluR1 the reduction was 31% in the hilus of dentate gyrus (p = 0.02) and 47% in CA3 (p = 0.002). For GluR2 the reduction was 52% in the hilus of dentate gyrus (p < 0.0001) and 29% in CA1 (p = 0.002). Isolation rearing induced a non-significant decrease in GluR1-immunopositive cells in the basolateral amygdala (p = 0.066) while no alteration was found in the lateral nucleus (p = 0.657). For GluR2 no changes were induced by isolation in both nuclei of the amygdala. In the entorhinal cortex no apparent difference was seen in GluR1- or GluR2-immunopositive cells when isolated reared rats were compared to grouped rats. The results suggest that isolation rearing from weaning induces changes on the expression of AMPA glutamate receptors in the hippocampus similar to those reported for postmortem human brains with schizophrenia. These findings also contribute to additional evidence for using isolation rearing of rats from weaning as an animal model for schizophrenia.

The aim of this study was to assess the levels of flexibility, functional autonomy and QoL in elderly yoga practitioners. The subjects were divided into a yoga group (YG; n = 52; age = 66.79 ± 3.30 years; BMI = 24.77 ± 3.18) and control group (CG; n = 31; age = 69.33 ± 4.84 years; BMI = 24.32 ± 3.71) and submitted to flexibility tests through goniometry, the LADEG autonomy protocol and QoL, using the WHOQOL-Old questionnaire. Repeated measures ANOVA showed increases in articular range of motion in shoulder abduction (Δ%SA = 14.11%; p = 0.0001), horizontal shoulder extension (Δ%HSE = 33.90%; p = 0.0001), lumbar spine flexion (Δ%LSF = 50.74%; p = 0.0001), hip flexion (Δ%HF = 35.75%; p = 0.0001), hip extension (Δ%HE = 10.93%; p = 0.021) and knee flexion (Δ%KF = 3.90%; p = 0.001) and in the GDLAM autonomy index (Δ%AI = -13.67%; p = 0.0001) in the YG compared to the CG. The Mann-Whitney test revealed increases in QoL scores in Facet 1 (Δ%Fac1 = 9.04%; p=0.043), Facet 5 (Δ%Fac5 = 51.06%; p = 0.0001) and in overall QoL (Δ%OqoL = 8.13%; p = 0.046) in the YG compared to the CG. The remaining variables showed no significant intergroup modifications. Thus, the study suggests that the regular practice of yoga may lead to improved range of motion in the performance of activities of daily living in elderly women., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Xylarenones C-E (2-4), three new eremophilane sesquiterpenes, have been isolated from solid substrate cultures of a Camarops-like endophytic fungus isolated from Alibertia macrophylla. The structures were elucidated by analysis of spectroscopic data. Compounds were evaluated in subtilisin and pepsin protease assays, and compound 2 showed potent inhibitory activity against both proteases.

Unlabelled: There is no consensus on the relevance of factors that influence gender differences in the behavior of muscles. Some studies have reported a relationship between muscle tension and amplitude of the vestibular evoked myogenic potential; others, that results depend on which muscles are studied or on how much load is applied., Aims: This study aims to compare vestibular evoked myogenic potential parameters between genders in young individuals., Methods: Eighty young adults were selected - 40 men and 40 women. Stimuli were averaged tone-bursts at 500 Hz, 90 dBHL intensity, and a 10-1000 Hz bandpass filter with amplification of 10-25 microvolts per division. The recordings were made in 80 ms windows., Study Type: An experimental and prospective study., Results: No significant gender differences were found in wave latency - p = 0.19 and p = 0.50 for waves P13 and N23, respectively. No differences were found in amplitude values - p = 0.28 p = 0.40 for waves P13 and N23, respectively., Conclusion: There were no gender differences in latency and amplitude factors; the sternocleidomastoid muscle strain was monitored during the examination.

The development of alloantibodies that inhibit or neutralise the function of factor VIII is considered the most serious complication of the treatment of congenital haemophilia A. In order to describe their course without immune tolerance induction (ITI), we documented data on all performed inhibitor tests with dates as well as on clotting factor infusions of all consecutive patients who were treated in our centre between 1993 and 2006. Patients were tested every 7.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.6-7.8). A 'sustained negative inhibitor status' was defined as consistent non-positive inhibitor measurements for two years or longer. A total of 60/486 (12%) patients tested had a positive inhibitor titre in two or more occasions. Most of the patients (56%) with a maximum inhibitor titre of < 5 Bethesda unit (BU)/ml (named "low titre inhibitor") developed a sustained negative inhibitor status. Among patients with high (5-9.9 BU/ml) and very high (≥ 10 BU/ml) inhibitor titres, the proportions were 50% and 3%, respectively. Our findings suggest that ITI might not be needed for all patients with non-transient inhibitors, especially when their maximum inhibitor titre is below 10 BU/ml. Further studies in countries where ITI is not available are needed to examine predictors of the natural sustained negative inhibitor status.

Questions: Does inspiratory muscle training improve maximal inspiratory pressure in intubated older people? Does it improve breathing pattern and time to wean from mechanical ventilation?, Design: Randomised trial with concealed allocation and intention-to-treat analysis., Participants: 41 elderly, intubated adults who had been mechanically ventilated for at least 48 hr in an intensive care unit., Intervention: The experimental group received usual care plus inspiratory muscle training using a threshold device, with an initial load of 30% of their maximal inspiratory pressure, increased by 10% (absolute) daily. Training was administered for 5 min, twice a day, 7 days a week from the commencement of weaning until extubation. The control group received usual care only., Outcome Measures: The primary outcome was the change in maximal inspiratory pressure during the weaning period. Secondary outcomes were the weaning time (ie, from commencement of pressure support ventilation to successful extubation), and the index of Tobin (ie, respiratory rate divided by tidal volume during a 1-min spontaneous breathing trial)., Results: Maximal inspiratory pressure increased significantly more in the experimental group than in the control group (MD 7.6 cmH(2)0, 95% CI 5.8 to 9.4). The index of Tobin decreased significantly more in the experimental group than in the control group (MD 8.3 br/min/L, 95% CI 2.9 to 13.7). In those who did not die or receive a tracheostomy, time to weaning was significantly shorter in the experimental group than in the control group (MD 1.7 days, 95% CI 0.4 to 3.0)., Conclusions: In intubated older people, inspiratory muscle training improves maximal inspiratory pressure and the index of Tobin, with a reduced weaning time in some patients., Trial Registration: NCT00922493.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of muscle strength and aerobic training on the basal serum levels of IGF-1 and cortisol in elderly women. The subjects were divided in three groups as follows. 1. Strength training group (SG) submitted to the weight training called 1-repetition maximum test (1-RM, 75-85%). This group contained 12 subjects of mean age=66.08+/-3.37 years; and body mass index (BMI)=26.0+/-3.72kg/m(2). (2) Aerobic training group (AG) submitted to aquatic exercise; they were 13 subjects of the mean age=68.69+/-4.70 years; and BMI=29.19+/-2.96kg/m(2). (3) A control group (CG) of 10 subjects, of mean age=68.80+/-5.41 years; BMI=29.70+/-2.82kg/m2. The training periods were 12 weeks, Fasting blood was analyzed to measure IGF-1 and basal cortisol levels (by chemiluminescence method), both at the beginning and the end of the intervention. Student's t-test revealed increased IGF-1 in the SG (p<0.05) compared to the other two groups. Repeated-measure ANOVA showed also elevated IGF-1 (p<0.05) in the SG compared to the other groups (AG and CG). There were no differences in cortisol levels. In conclusion, high-intensity training caused changes in IGF-1. This suggests that strength training may provoke anabolic effects in elderly individuals.

There are several equations to predict maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) from ergometric test variables on different ergometers. However, a similar equation using ventilatory thresholds of ergospirometry in a submaximal test on a cycle ergometer is unavailable. The aim of the present study was to assess the accuracy of VO2max prediction models based on indicators of submaximal effort. Accordingly, 4,640 healthy, nonathlete women ages 20 years and older volunteered to be tested on a cycle ergometer using a maximum incremental protocol. The subjects were randomly assigned to 2 groups: group A (estimation) and group B (validation). From the independent variables of weight in kilograms, the second workload threshold (WT2), and heart rate of the second threshold (HRT2), it was possible to build a multiple linear regression model to predict maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max = 40.302 - 0.497 [Weight] - 0.001 [HRT2] + 0.239 [WT2] in mL O2/kg/min(-1); r = 0.995 and standard error of the estimate [SEE] = 0.68 mL O2/kg/min(-1)). The cross-validation method was used in group B with group A serving as the basis for building the model and the validation dataset. The results showed that, in healthy nonathlete women, it is possible to predict VO2max with a minimum of error (SEE = 1.00%) from submaximal indicators obtained in an incremental test.

Marine sponges belonging to the order Haplosclerida are one of the more prolific sources of new natural products possessing various biological activities. The present study examined the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of ingenamine G, an alkaloid isolated from the Brazilian marine sponge Pachychalina alcaloidifera. Ingenamine G displayed a moderate cytotoxic activity against human proliferating lymphocytes evaluated by the MTT assay (IC(50) 15 microg/mL). The hemolytic assay showed that ingenamine G cytotoxic activity was not related to membrane disruption. The comet assay and chromosome aberration analysis were applied to determine the genotoxic and clastogenic potential of ingenamine G, respectively. Cultured human lymphocytes were treated with 5, 10, 15 and 20 microg/mL of ingenamine G during the G(1), G(1)/S, S (pulses of 1 and 6 h), and G(2) phases of the cell cycle. All tested concentrations were cytotoxic, reduced significantly the mitotic index, and were clastogenic in all phases of the cell cycle, especially in S phase. While an increase in DNA-strand breaks was observed starting with the concentration corresponding to the IC(50). The presence of genotoxicity and polyploidy during interphase and mitosis, respectively, suggests that ingenamine G at high concentrations is clastogenic and indirectly affects the construction of mitotic fuse.

Objectives: To evaluate the sensitization to aeroallergens determined by skin prick test (SPT) in Brazilian adolescents, and to correlate its positivity with the diagnosis of asthma and/or rhinitis based on the written questionnaire (WQ) of ISAAC phase III study., Patients and Methods: A total of 996 adolescents (387 boys) were selected by systematic samples. A standard allergen extracts panel (positive/negative control, D pteronyssinus [Dpt], P americana [Pa], B germanica [Bg], dog, cat, fungal and grass mix) was used and its positivity compared with positive responses to asthma, rhinitis or both., Results: Positive SPT to at least one allergen was observed in 466 adolescents (46.8 %), with sensitisation to Dpt in 79.1 %. Positivity to more than one allergen occurred in 232 students (49.8 %). The frequency of positive SPTs was significantly higher among adolescents with asthma (OR = 2.16), rhinitis (OR = 1.69), and asthma and rhinitis (OR = 2.03). Positive SPT to four or more allergens were higher among asthmatics (OR = 2.6) and among adolescents with asthma and rhinitis (OR = 3)., Conclusions: A high sensitisation rate to aeroallergens was observed, significantly higher among those with asthma, rhinitis or a combination of both, especially in multiple sensitisations.