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Vitex megapotamica (Spreng) Moldenke is commonly known as taruma, it is an important medicinal and edible fruit plant. It is native to regions of tropical and subtropical climate in greater proport...

Plant-parasitic nematodes and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been reported to alter the yield and chemical composition of basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of AMF to control the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica in basil and to investigate the effects of nematode-AMF interactions on plant growth, phosphorus (P) absorption, and essential oil composition. The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions following a completely randomized 3 × 2 factorial (two fungal species and an uninoculated control × inoculated and uninoculated seedlings) arrangement with 10 replicates. Substrates were inoculated with Claroideoglomus etunicatum, Rhizophagus clarus, or no fungi (control) and sown with basil seeds. After 20 days, half of the seedlings were inoculated with 4,000 M. javanica eggs. After 60 days, the vegetative parameters, P absorption, essential oil composition, nematode population density, AMF root-colonization efficiency, and AMF spore density were determined. The presence of AMF increased the basil’s fresh weight and ability to absorb P, while reducing the M. javanica reproduction. In total, 21 compounds were identified in basil essential oil, the concentrations of which varied according to the treatments. The major components were eucalyptol, linalool, eugenol, β-elemene, trans-α-bergamotene, and τ-cadinol. Inoculation with AMF decreased the linalool levels but increased the amount of eucalyptol. Mycorrhizal plants showed increased shoot height, P uptake, and essential oil yield and a decreased nematode population density in their roots

Eugenia involucrata DC. (Myrtaceae), popularly known as “cereja-do-Rio-Grande”, is a native tree from Brazil, popularly used as a hypoglycemiant. Crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) and fractions (insoluble (FI), dichloromethane (FDM), ethyl acetate (FEA) and butanol (FBu)) of leaves were assessed to determine the phenolic chemical composition by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. 10 compounds were identified, being 7 new for this species: rutin, isoquercitrin, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, mandelic acid, naringenin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside and salicylic acid. Extract and fractions showed inhibitory activity on acetylcholinesterase (AchE) enzyme (best result: IC50 = 44.19 µg mL−1, for FEA) and α-glucosidase (α-Glu) (best result: IC50 = 31.25 ± 0.15 µg mL−1, for CHE). The observed antioxidant and inhibitory activity on the AchE and α-Glu is due to, at least in part, the presence of phenolic compounds in the samples.

In this study, three different combinations of essential oils (EO) of cinnamon, melaleuca and citronella were incorporated in polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) films by conventional solution-casting method for food packaging applications. Although melaleuca and citronella EO films have been not demonstrated antimicrobial activity, they presented low UV transmission and high thermal stability. Films containing citronella and cinnamon EO or melaleuca and cinnamon EO, in turn, were active against all tested microorganisms and showed greater flexibility than pure PHB films. Aspergillus niger was the most sensitive microorganism to EO-based polymer films. Overall, the addition of EOs improved the thermal stability of films and reduced the polymer melting temperature as the result of its plasticization, affecting the elastic modulus and elongation at break of films. Taken together, these results suggest that EO-loaded PHB films could be used in designing of biodegradable active packaging for food products.

Natural antiparasitic agents are used as a strategy for advances in the treatment of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as giardiasis. The present paper identified the compounds produced by Ganoderma lipsiense mycelium grown in submerged fermentation and investigated the antigiardial activity potential of extracts in vitro. G. lipsiense mycelium crude extract (CE) was obtained by the maceration process and after purification in column, thirty compounds were identified by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in hexane sub-fraction (HSF). To determine the antigiardial potential, different parts of the purified CE have been evaluated, where hexane (HEXf) and dichloromethane (DCMf) fractions showed in vitro reduction levels higher than 90% of the Giardia duodenalis trophozoites at 100 μg mL−1. This antigiardial activity was investigated aiming to explore the possibility of G. lipsiense mycelium extract as a novel antigiardial compound to the treatment of human giardiasis.

Acclimatization is the most delicate stage of micropropagation, which makes it challenging to obtain new seedlings. The use of suitable substrates associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMFs) has been promising during this stage. The goal of this study was to investigate the influence of different AMFs and substrates on the acclimatization of Curcuma longa L. The C. longa seedlings were obtained from in vitro cultivation with a specific medium for 120 days. After this period, they were transplanted into plastic pots containing two substrate formulations. The first compound was soil and vermiculite (1:1 v/v), and the second was a commercial substrate for vegetables, containing vermicompost and vermiculite (1:1:1 v/v). The fungi used in the study were Rhizophagus clarus, Claroideoglomus etunicatum, and a mixture of the two fungi. A treatment with no fungi was used as the control. After 240 days, the growth and structural characteristics of the plant were measured, as well as nutrients and soil–quality parameters. The use of a substrate rich in organic matter (substrate 2) associated with R. clarus and C. etunicatum promoted 100% survival of C. longa plants. In this condition, the plants were more vigorous. The root system increased in size and biomass, being robust with the presence of many roots. The soil indicators revealed that the fungi helped with the lower activity of the metabolic quotient and increased basal respiration, indicators that demonstrated the beneficial action of the fungi for the plants. In addition, changes in stomatal conformation and density probably allowed greater CO2 diffusion.

Bryophyllum delagoense (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Druce, native to Madagascar, is popularly known as “abyssian cactus” and popularly used in folk medicine as an analgesic and healing agent. The study methodology was divided into the phytochemical study: fractionation and identification of phenolic compounds by HLPC-ESI-MS/MS from the methanolic extract (ME), and fractions (DCMF and EAF) of leaves of B. delagoense, and biological activity with acetylcholinesterase and α-glucosidase inhibition of extracts and fractions by in vitro enzymatic techniques. Twenty-seven phenolic compounds were identified, being the highest concentration of syringic acid (87.848 mg g−1). The DCMF fraction showed the best biological activity for inhibition of α-glucosidase enzyme (0.125 mg mL−1).

The studies on natural compounds to diabetes mellitus treatment have been increasing in recent years. Research suggests that natural components can inhibit alpha-glucosidase activities, an important strategy in the management of blood glucose levels. In this work, for the first time in the literature, the compounds produced by Ganoderma lipsiense extracts were identified and evaluated on the inhibitory effect of these on alpha-glucosidase activity. Four phenolic compounds were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS) to crude extract from G. lipsiense grown in red rice medium (RCE) and synthetic medium (SCE), being syringic acid identified in both extracts. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed fatty acids and their derivatives, terpene, steroid, niacin, and nitrogen compounds to SCE, while RCE was rich in fatty acids and their derivatives. Both extracts demonstrated alpha-glucosidase inhibition (RCE IC50 = 0.269 ± 8.25 mg mL−1; SCE IC50 = 0.218 ± 9.67 mg mL−1), and the purified hexane fraction of RCE (RHEX) demonstrated the highest inhibition of enzyme (81.1%). Studies on kinetic inhibition showed competitive inhibition mode to RCE, while SCE showed uncompetitive inhibition mode. Although the inhibitory effects of RCE and SCE were satisfactory, the present findings identified some unpublished compounds to G. lipsiense in the literature with important therapeutic properties.

This study describes anti-inflamatory activity of epicuticular wax (ECW) extracted from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., and its isolated compounds, catechin and gallocatechin in a pleurisy model in mice. The results for exudation and cell migration showed that the extract and isolated compounds from the plant were effective in inhibiting these inflammatory parameters. The ECW demonstrated a dose-dependent effect on the inhibition of cell migration. The results for NOx levels reveals that the isolated compounds from Eugenia brasiliensis were effective in inhibiting the production of this inflammatory mediator, however, ECW were not able in inhibiting the production of NO in the pleural cavity, at the tested doses. The results here obtained, helps to reinforce the scientifically hypothesis that E. brasiliensis has an important anti-inflammatory activity, and that this effect may be, at least in part, by the presence of the compounds catechin and gallocatechin.

This study aimed at evaluating the growth and essential oil content of Salvia officinalis L. (sage) inoculated with two species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) Rhizophagus clarus and Claroideoglomus etunicatum under different phosphorous (P) levels. The treatments were prepared in a sterile substrate (sand, vermiculite and organic compound (1: 1: 2, v:v) with high (200 mg kg−1) and low (20 mg kg−1) P levels at sowing, with and without AMF inoculation; the experiment was conducted in a greenhouse for four months. Plants were grown in pots with 3 kg of substrate in a 3 x 2 (3 mycorrhizal x 2 levels of P) factorial experiment, in a completely randomized design (with eight repetitions). Spore density, AMF root colonization, plant dry mass, P and N shoot content, yield and composition of essential oil (EO) were determined. Data were processed and submitted to analyses of hierarchical clustering and principal component. Plant biomass increased with addition of P in the substrate. EO content increased with AMF Rhizophagus clarus inoculation in high-P substrate. It was concluded that inoculation with R. clarus and the addition of P at sowing can boost the growth of sage and the content of its EO. Camphor, α-humulene, viridiflorol, manool, α-thujone and β- thujone were the main components of the EO.

Over the last 10 years, exotic animal clinical pathology has been evolving, improving health assessment in avian, mammal, fish, reptile, and amphibian patients. These advances are reviewed in this article. Species-specific reference intervals for blood parameters are becoming more available (eg, for ionized calcium, endocrine panels, and vitamin D plasmatic concentrations). In addition, new technologies are being developed to facilitate targeted metabolite detection and result acquisition by veterinarians. Novel techniques, biomarkers, and clinical changes related to disease have been described in avian, mammal, fish, reptile and amphibian species. The use of mobile applications may also be helpful.

'Lamiaceae' and 'Euphorbiaceae' are two families of plants grown as medicinal, aromatic, food and ornamental crops, and are of great commercial importance. The cultivation of these species depends on soil quality and availability of soil resources. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) usually penetrates plants through their roots, supplying plants with water and nutrients and receiving photosynthesis products in return. These types of symbiosis benefit the development and production of crops. To analyze the effects of AMF inoculation on the production of plants of these families, a meta - analysis was performed using 183 data of 'Lamiaceae' plants and 68 data of 'Euphorbiaceae' plants. Meta-analysis consists of compiling data from literature to obtain the response ratio, calculated by the mean of the experimental group divided by the mean of the control group. The response variables were shoot dry mass (SDM), total dry mass (TDM), plant height and accumulation of phosphorus in the plant shoot (P-shoot). Results showed an increased mean production of AMF-inoculated plants with a 96% and 97% increase of SDM in 'Lamiaceae' and 'Euphorbiaceae', respectively. Increases of 91% in TDM and 248% in P accumulated in the plant shoot were observed for 'Lamiaceae'; values that were higher than those of 'Euphorbiaceae' at 110% and 675%, respectively. This meta-analysis confirmed the potential of AMF to increase biomass production and P accumulation in medicinal plants of the 'Lamiaceae' and 'Euphorbiaceae' families.

The aim of this randomised clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri in chewable tablets as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment of chronic periodontitis in smoking patients. 34 patient smokers were selected and randomly divided into two groups. The SRP group (n=17) received scaling and root planing (SRP) in one session and a placebo; the PRO group (n=17) received SRP in one session and 2 probiotic tablets 2× per day, for 21 days. Bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession (GR), and pockets with PD≥5 mm and bleeding were measured at baseline and 90 days. After 90 days of treatment, the PD and pockets with PD≥5 mm and bleeding were significantly lower in both groups compared to baseline (P

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-29T08:31:21Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-09-01 Background: The aim of this study was to compare, through clinical and microbiological analysis, the use of multiple applications of aPDT as an adjuvant therapy to non-surgical periodontal treatment of stage III and IV grade C periodontitis in type 2 diabetic (DM2) patients. Methods: Thirty-four patients with non-compensated DM2 and periodontitis were randomly divided into two groups: SRP Group (n = 17): scaling and root planing (SRP); and SRP+aPDT Group (n = 17): SRP followed by 3 consecutive aPDT applications, immediately, 48 and 96 h after in pockets with probing depth (PD) ≥5 mm. In SRP+aPDT, after 1 min of irrigation with methylene blue (10 mg/ml), the sites were irradiated with a 660 nm diode laser for 50 s (157 J/cm2, 4.7 J, 100 mW). Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia) were quantified by real-time qPCR. Periodontal clinical and microbiological data (baseline, 90 and 180 days) were statistically analyzed (α = 5%). Results: There was a significant reduction in PD and bleeding on probing at 90 and 180 days post-treatment in both groups (p0.05). Conclusion: The results of present study indicate that the use of multiples aPDT sessions as adjuvant therapy in the periodontal treatment of uncompensated diabetic patients with periodontitis promotes additional clinical benefits. Department of Diagnostic and Surgery Periodontics Division São Paulo State University - UNESP Dentistry School of Araçatuba Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry São Paulo State University - UNESP Dentistry School of Araçatuba Latin American Institute of Dental Research and Teaching (ILAPEO) Department of Diagnostic and Surgery Periodontics Division São Paulo State University - UNESP Dentistry School of Araçatuba Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry São Paulo State University - UNESP Dentistry School of Araçatuba

Tuberculosis has been described as a global health crisis since the 1990s, with an estimated 1.4 million deaths in the last year. Herein, a series of 20 1H-indoles were synthesized and evaluated as in vitro inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) growth. Furthermore, the top hit compounds were active against multidrug-resistant strains, without cross-resistance with first-line drugs. Exposing HepG2 and Vero cells to the molecules for 72 h showed that one of the evaluated structures was devoid of apparent toxicity. In addition, this 3-phenyl-1H-indole showed no genotoxicity signals. Finally, time-kill and pharmacodynamic model analyses demonstrated that this compound has bactericidal activity at concentrations close to the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration, coupled with a strong time-dependent behavior. To the best of our knowledge, this study describes the activity of 3-phenyl-1H-indole against Mtb for the first time.

Thousands of chemicals are released into the environment daily, arousing great scientific interest because they can influence the overall function of living organisms. The indiscriminate use of pesticides, especially organophosphate, confers important risks to both public and environmental health. Previous studies showed that chlorpyrifos (CPF) acts as an endocrine disruptor. Nevertheless, CPF is still widely used in many countries. Thus, we evaluated the thyroid-disrupting effects of CPF after short-term low-dose oral exposure in female Wistar rats. A total of 48 female Wistar rats were divided into five experimental groups (

PURPOSE: This prospective study aimed to detect and identify plasma proteins differentially expressed between groups of Brazilian diagnosed with type 1 (T1DM), type 2 (T2DM) diabetes with good and poor glycemic control and the non-diabetic group denominated control group (CG). METHODS: Patients with T1DM and T2DM were subdivided according to their glycated haemoglobin (HbA(1c)) level: ≥ 53 mmol/mol and

The mechanisms that promote local inflammatory injury during lupus nephritis (LN) flare are largely unknown. Understanding the key immune cells that drive intrarenal inflammation will advance our knowledge of disease pathogenesis and inform the development of new therapeutics for LN management. In this study, we analyzed kidney biopsies from patients with proliferative LN and identified a novel inflammatory dendritic cell (infDC) population that is highly expressed in the LN kidney, but minimally present in healthy human kidneys. During an agnostic evaluation of immune transcript expression in the kidneys of patients with proliferative LN, the most abundantly overexpressed transcript from isolated glomeruli wasFCER1G, which encodes the Fc receptor gamma chain (FcRγ). To identify the cell types expressing FcRγ that infiltrate the kidney in LN, studies were done on kidney biopsies from patients with active LN using confocal immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy. This showed that FcRγ is abundantly present in the periglomerular (PG) region of the kidney and to a lesser extent in the tubulointerstitium (TI). Further investigation of the surface markers of these cells showed that they were FcRγ+, MHC II+, CD11c+, CD163+, CD5−, DC-SIGN+, CD64+, CD14+, CD16+, SIRPα+, CD206−, CD68−, CD123−, CD3−, and CD11b−, suggesting the cells were infDCs. Quantification of the infDCs showed an average 10-fold higher level of infDCs in the LN kidney compared to the healthy kidneys. Importantly, IF identified CD3+T cells to be adjacent to these infDCs in the PG space of the LN kidney, whereas both cell types are minimally present in the healthy kidney. Thus, we have identified a previously undescribed DC in lupus kidneys that may interact with intrarenal T cells and play a role in the pathogenesis of kidney injury during LN flare.

The Atlantic Forest is regarded a rich source of aromatic plants with a broad spectrum of biological properties. The leaves of seven Piper species were collected from the Atlantic Forest domain in the coastal region of Paraná state in winter (W) and spring (S). The volatile oils were extracted from the leaves through hydrodistillation method. The volatile oils were characterized by means of GC-FID and GC-MS. Sesquiterpenes were among the major compounds in all species studied, with many dozens of representatives. However, very low concentrations of monoterpenes were observed; α-pinene in Piper mosenii and P. cernuum, δ-3-carene in P. rivinoides, camphene and β-pinene in P. cernuum are exceptions. The arylpropanoides myristicine and elemicin were found in considerable amount in P. diospyrifolium (26.2%/S) and P. mosenii (16.4%/W), respectively. These oils were also screened for inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and α-glucosidase (AG). For AChE the most active samples were P. diospyrifolium, P. aduncum and P. cernuum, with inhibiting level > 93%. For the less sensitive AG, the most promising candidates were P. diospyrifolium and P. mosenii, with inhibiting level > 65%. These results highlight the importance of native plants as renewable source of new inhibitors for AChE and AG. Further investigation is required to identify the most active constituents or fractions from the selected volatile oils. Resumo A Floresta Atlântica é considerada uma rica fonte de plantas aromáticas com amplo espectro de propriedades biológicas. Na busca de novos inibidores da acetilcolinesterase (AChE) e α-glicosidase (AG), folhas de diferentes espécies de Piper localizadas na Floresta Atlântica no litoral do Paraná - Brasil, foram submetidas a hidrodestilação e seus óleos voláteis caracterizados por CG-DIC e CG-EM. A coleta ocorreu em duas estações distintas, inverno (I) e primavera (P), de 7 diferentes espécies. Sesquiterpenos foram identificados entre os compostos majoritários em todas as espécies estudadas, com dezenas de representantes. No entanto, foram observadas baixas concentrações de monoterpenos; α-pinene in Piper mosenii and P. cernuum, δ-3-carene in P. rivinoides, camphene and β-pinene in P. cernuum são exceções. Os arilpropanoides miristicina e elemicina foram identificadas em quantidades significativas em P. diospyrifolium (26.2%/P) e P. mosenii (16.4%/I), respectivamente. Para a AChE as amostras mais ativas foram P. diospyrifolium, P. aduncum e P. cernuum, com níveis de inibição > 93%. Para a AG, que se mostrou menos sensível às amostras, os candidatos mais promissores foram P. diospyrifolium e P. mosenii, ambos com níveis de inibição > 65%. Esses resultados destacam a importância das plantas nativas como fontes renováveis de novos inibidores para AChE e AG. Estudos adicionais se fazem necessários para identificar os constituintes ou frações mais ativas dos óleos voláteis selecionados.

Plant growth stimulation by microorganisms that interact in a mutually beneficial manner remains poorly understood. Understanding the nature of plant-bacteria interactions may open new routes for plant productivity enhancement, especially cereal crops consumed by humans. Proteomic and metabolomic analyses are particularly useful for elucidating these mechanisms. A complete depiction of these mechanisms will prompt researchers to develop more efficient plant-bacteria associations. The success of microorganisms as biofertilizers may replace the current massive use of chemical fertilizers, mitigating many environmental and economic issues. In this review, we discuss the recent advances and current state of the art in proteomics and metabolomics studies involving grass-bacteria associations. We also discuss essential subjects involved in the bacterial plant-growth promotion, such, nitrogen fixation, plant stress, defense responses, and siderophore production.

Despite the popularity of leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) in the pet trade, packed-cell-volume (PCV) and biochemistry reference intervals are still lacking for these animals. The risk of inducing tail autotomy during venipuncture is of particular concern in this species. Blood samples were obtained from 26 healthy subadults (14 females and 12 males) from the ventral coccygeal vein or the cranial vena cava under general anesthesia with isoflurane. Plasma biochemistry panels were performed by a reference laboratory and PCV was measured. Reference intervals were established following the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines. Reference values were established for parameters with less than 20 available results because of limited sample volumes. Results were computed using the Reference Value Advisor software. Venipuncture was performed safely, without tail autotomy, in all 26 individuals. No lymph contamination was detected macroscopically. Reference intervals were 21–40% for PCV, 33–394 µmol/L for uric acid (0.5 to 6.6 mg/dL), 0–3,701 IU/L for creatine kinase, and 0.6–37.5 µmol/L for bile acids. Reference values were established for the following parameters: 0.5–5.3 mmol/L for phosphorus (1.5–16.4 mg/dL), 24–80 g/L for total protein (2.4–8.0 g/dL), 3.5 to >9.25 mmol/L for total calcium in females (14 to >37 mg/dL), and 11–65 IU/L for aspartate aminotransferase. Biochemistry results in leopard geckos were similar to those reported in crested geckos (Rhacodactylus ciliatus).

With the advancement of medicine, the vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) was developed. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus and the vaccine is a skillful means of preventing transmission. However, the vaccine needs to be applied to the at-risk population, young women and men. Therefore, the objective of the present study is to highlight comprehensive studies on the applicability of the vaccine to the population in an efficient manner. The research will approach a wide review of scientific articles published in recent years, the collection will be carried out in the Google Scholar Database, MEDLINE and SciELO, allowing a discourse analysis of the selected works, and thus, building a critical analysis resulting from the information gathered about the population at risk, effectiveness and stigmas of non-vaccination. In a critical analysis, it was corroborated that although vaccination has proven to be effective, the population at risk is not totally immune to the virus, since the stigmas imposed by contemporary society end up preventing vaccination from happening in 100% of the population. Thus, the study confirmed the need for permanent prevention policies in health units that aim at health education so that vaccination can reach the entire population at risk. Con el avance de la medicina, apareció la vacuna contra el virus del papiloma humano (VPH). El VPH es un virus de transmisión sexual y la vacuna es un medio hábil para prevenir la transmisión. Sin embargo, la vacuna necesita ser aplicada a la población en riesgo, mujeres y hombres jóvenes, por lo que el objetivo del presente estudio es resaltar estudios integrales sobre la aplicabilidad de la vacuna en la población de manera eficiente. La investigación versará sobre una amplia revisión de los artículos científicos publicados en los últimos años, la recopilación se realizará en la base de datos Google Scholar, MEDLINE y SciELO, permitiendo un análisis del discurso de los trabajos seleccionados, y así, construir un análisis crítico resultante de la información. recopilados sobre la población en riesgo, la eficacia y los estigmas de la no vacunación. En un análisis crítico, se corroboró que si bien la vacunación ha demostrado ser efectiva, la población en riesgo no es totalmente inmune al virus, ya que los estigmas impuestos por la sociedad contemporánea terminan impidiendo que la vacunación ocurra en el 100% de la población. Así, el estudio confirmó la necesidad de políticas de prevención permanente en las unidades de salud que apunten a la educación en salud para que la vacunación llegue a toda la población en riesgo. Com o avanço da medicina, surgiu a vacina contra o Papilomavírus humano (HPV). O HPV é um vírus sexualmente transmissível e a vacina é meio hábil que visa prevenir a transmissão. Entretanto, a vacina precisa ser aplicada na população de risco, as mulheres e homens jovens, sendo assim, o objetivo do presente estudo é evidenciar estudos abrangentes sobre a aplicabilidade da vacina na população de forma eficiente. A pesquisa versará em uma revisão ampla de artigos científicos devidamente publicados nos últimos anos, a coleta será realizada na Base de Dados Google Acadêmico, MEDLINE e SciELO, possibilitando uma análise de discurso dos trabalhos selecionados, e assim, construir uma análise crítica decorrente das informações reunidas acerca da população de risco, eficácia e estigmas da não vacinação. Numa análise crítica, restou corroborado que embora comprovadamente eficaz a vacinação, a população de risco não está totalmente imune ao vírus, visto que, os estigmas impostos pela sociedade contemporânea, acabam por impedir que a vacinação aconteça em 100% da população. Deste modo, o estudo confirmou a necessidade de políticas de prevenção permanentes nas unidades de saúde que objetivem a educação em saúde para que a vacinação consiga atingir toda a população de risco.

A demanda por produção de quantidades adequadas de biomassa vegetal é um grande desafio da pecuária brasileira que enfrenta grave situação em relação à degradação da maioria das pastagens nativas ou cultivadas, especialmente em solos deficientes em nutrientes biogênicos como o nitrogênio. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o crescimento e nutrição de Urochloa brizantha em decorrência da inoculação com Azospirillum brasilense associado com adubação nitrogenada. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação da Universidade Paranaense – UNIPAR, Umuarama – PR. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, constituído por seis tratamentos (testemunha, inoculado sem N, inoculado + 50 e 75 kg ha-1 N, sem inoculação + 50 e 75 kg ha-1 N) e cinco repetições cada. 10 dias após a semeadura efetuou-se o desbaste das plantas em excesso deixando apenas cinco plantas por vaso. 60 dias após a semeadura, as plantas foram coletadas para análise de massa seca, alongamento foliar e teores de nutrientes foliares. A inoculação resultou em um ganho na massa seca da parte aérea, comprimento de parte aérea e número de perfilhos, porém não houve ganho em massa seca da raiz. Pôde-se observar maior concentração de nitrogênio foliar e índice de clorofila nos tratamentos com maiores concentrações de adubação nitrogenada, inoculado ou não. Portanto, conclui-se que a inoculação com A. brasilense associado à adubação nitrogenada se mostrou um excelente aliado no aumento da produção e no desenvolvimento de U. brizantha cv. Marandu.

This study aims to carry out a bibliographic survey on ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological and pharmacological information on Rosaceae species. The species addressed were Eriobotrya japonica (yellow-plum), Fragaria vesca (strawberry), Malus domestica (apple), Prunus domestica (plum), Prunus persica (peach), Pyrus communis (pear) and Rubus brasiliensis (raspberry) grown in the garden Medicinal of Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR) - Campus 2. For this study, the databases were taken from national and international scientific journals without restriction of year of publication. As a result, a category of use was identified, part used, form of preparation, popular use, pharmacological and phytochemical studies for each species. Thus, it is observed that all fruit species are popularly used a medicinal, with records of ethnopharmacological, pharmacological and phytochemical studies. Medicinal plants are very widespread and used, being considered as an important therapeutic resource. However, despite the pharmacological records found, new scientific investigations are still needed to ensure the safer and more effective use of these species by the population. Este estudio tiene como objetivo realizar un relevamiento bibliográfico sobre información etnobotánica, etnofarmacológica y farmacológica de especies de Rosaceae. Las especies abordadas fueron Eriobotrya japonica (ciruela-amarilla), Fragaria vesca (fresa), Malus domestica (manzana), Prunus domestica (ciruela), Prunus persica (melocotón), Pyrus communis (pera) y Rubus brasiliensis (frambuesa) cultivadas en el jardín Medicinal de la Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR) - Campus 2. Para este estudio, las bases de datos fueron tomadas de revistas científicas nacionales e internacionales sin restricción de año de publicación. Como resultado, se identificó una categoría de uso, parte utilizada, forma de preparación, uso popular, estudios farmacológicos y fitoquímicos para cada especie. Así, se observa que todas las especies frutales se utilizan popularmente como medicinales, con registros de estudios etnofarmacológicos, farmacológicos y fitoquímicos. Las plantas medicinales están muy extendidas y se utilizan, considerándose como un importante recurso terapéutico. Sin embargo, a pesar de los registros farmacológicos encontrados, aún se necesitan nuevas investigaciones científicas para garantizar un uso más seguro y eficaz de estas especies por parte de la población. Este estudo tem como objetivo realizar um levantamento bibliográfico sobre informações etnobotânicas, etnofarmacológicas e farmacológicas de espécies de Rosaceae. As espécies abordadas foram Eriobotrya japonica (ameixa-amarela), Fragaria vesca (moranguinho), Malus domestica (maça), Prunus domestica (ameixa), Prunus persica (pêssego), Pyrus communis (pera) e Rubus brasiliensis (framboesa) cultivadas no Horto Medicinal da Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR) - Campus 2. Para este estudo, as bases de dados foram retiradas de periódicos científicos nacionais e internacionais sem restrição de ano de publicação. Como resultado, identificou-se categoria de uso, parte utilizada, forma de preparo, uso popular, estudos farmacológicos e fitoquímicos para cada espécie. Assim, observa-se que todas as espécies frutíferas são utilizadas popularmente como medicinais, com registros de estudos etnofarmacológicos, farmacológicos e fitoquímicos. As plantas medicinais, são muito difundidas e utilizadas, sendo consideradas como um importante recurso terapêutico. No entanto, apesar dos registros farmacológicos encontrados, novas investigações científicas ainda são necessárias para garantir o uso mais seguro e eficaz dessas espécies pela população.

Recently, gut microbiota has emerged as an important mediator of several diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, obesity, cancers and neuropsychiatric diseases including Alzheimer, autism and depression. Intestinal microbiota is formed by bacteria, fungi and viruses and its main function is to facilitate the absorption and metabolism of foods (protein, fat and carbohydrate). One example of the multiple actions of the gut microbiota is the bidirectional relationship between the intestine and the brain, the so-called “gut/brain axis”. Furthermore, metabolites produced by gut microbiota can induce effects locally or at distance, which suggests that the intestine is an endocrine organ. Given the participation of the gut microbiota in several diseases, there is great interest in strategies that may positively affect the gut flora and prevent or even treat diseases. Among these strategies, lifestyle change, but specially diet modulation has gained importance. In this article, we review the mechanisms through which intestinal microbiota participates in cardiovascular diseases and possible therapeutic interventions.

'Cymbopogon citratus' (DC) Stapf (lemongrass) has many industrial applications. Various factors affect the metabolism of this plant. Specifically, its association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) increases water absorption and nutrient uptake, mainly phosphorous (P). This study aimed to assess the AMF symbiotic effects on nutrient uptake and growth in 'C. citratus' inoculated with the Rhizophagus clarus and Claroideoglomus etunicatum AMF under different levels of P applied to the substrate. The treatments were prepared in a sterile substrate with high (200 mg kg-1) and low (20 mg kg-1) P levels, with and without AMF inoculation. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse for six months. A 3 x 2 (3 mycorrhizal x 2 levels of P) factorial experiment in a completely randomized design (eight repetitions) was used in this study. The variables spore density and root AMF colonization, basal soil respiration, microbial biomass carbon, shoot, root and total dry mass, nitrogen (N) and P content in the plant were analyzed. No significant AMF symbiotic effects (p > 0.05) on lemongrass growth were observed for the P levels. P and N content in the shoots, and total P, increased in treatments with AMF and at the high P level, particularly in the inoculation with 'R. clarus'. Spore density, root colonization, and microbial biomass carbon were higher with AMF inoculation. It was observed that AMF inoculation increased the content of P and N in 'C. citratus', but did not affect plant growth. AMF inoculation can improve soil quality and, combined with a higher P level, can increase P and N uptake by lemongrass plants, modifying the plant metabolism.

The aim of this study was to investigate the antibodies and DNA of Leptospira spp. isolated from infected cattle in a small rural dairy farm in a border region between Brazil and Paraguay. Blood and urine samples were collected from 50 Holstein cows aged between 1 and 15 years. The diagnostic tests performed were microscopic serum agglutination for antibody detection and polymerase chain reaction for Leptospira spp. detection. Out of the samples analyzed, 48% were MAT positive with titers ranging from 100 to 400, and the most prevalent antibody was to the serovar Hardjo. One serum sample was amplified to 549 bp for the sec y gene, and sequencing identified it as L. interrogans. This is the first report from northwestern Paraná (PR) State of L. interrogans identification in naturally infected milk cattle. Thus, based on these results, to enhance production efficiency, new serological and molecular studies on dairy cattle from border regions are required to characterize the epidemiology of possible genotypes and their consequences in affected herds. O objetivo deste trabalho foi pesquisar anticorpos e DNA de Leptospira spp. em uma propriedade rural leiteira de uma região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue e urina de 50 animais da raça Holandesa com idade variando de um a quinze anos, de uma pequena propriedade rural de exploração leiteira em uma região de fronteira entre Brasil e Paraguai. Quanto aos diferentes diagnósticos foi utilizado a soroaglutinação microscópica para a detecção de anticorpos e também foi realizada a reação em cadeia pela polimerase para a detecção de DNA de Leptospira spp. Das amostras analisadas, 48,00% foram soro reagentes na SAM com títulos variando de 100 a 400 e o anticorpo contra o sorovar mais prevalente foi o Hardjo. Uma amostra de soro amplificou 549pb para o gene sec y, e no sequenciamento foi identificada como Leptospira interrogans. Este é o primeiro relato da região noroeste do estado do Paraná (PR) relacionado à identificação de L. interrogans de bovinos de leite naturalmente infectados e em virtude dos resultados deste trabalho são necessários novos estudos sorológicos e moleculares em criações de gado de leite de regiões fronteiriças para se caracterizar a epidemiologia dos possíveis genótipos e suas possíveis consequências nos rebanhos afetados visando sempre à eficiência da produção.

Nature is a vast source of medicinal substances, including propolis, which has been extensively investigated. Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees from the exudates of plants that they collect and modify in their jaws; it is a rich and complex matrix with secondary metabolites of diverse botanical origins. The objective of this study was to apply an in vitro bioguided approach using as a model system the mollicutes with a sample of propolis from the Brazilian native bee Melipona quadrifasciata (mandaçaia) in order to identify potential new molecules with antimicrobial activity. A crude hydroalcoholic extract was obtained and submitted to liquid-liquid partitioning with solvents of different polarities, generating four different fractions: aqueous, dichloromethane, butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions. The antimollicute activity assays served as a basis for the bioguided fractionation. The dichloromethane fraction was the most promising, exhibiting a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 125 μg/mL against Mycoplasma pneumoniae. After purification by column liquid chromatography, a subfraction presenting MIC of 15.6 μg/mL against Mycoplasma genitalium was highlighted. The fractions were also tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Using gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS), several volatile compounds were identified in the non-polar fractions of this propolis. However, the more purified molecules had no better antimollicute activity than their original subfraction. Apparently, the synergism among its compounds is largely responsible for the antibacterial activity of the propolis of this native Brazilian bee.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is a severe disease affecting many children and adolescents. Paired box 4 (PAX4) is considered an essential transcription factor associated with the differentiation and functioning of beta cells. Mutations and polymorphisms that weaken the PAX4 transcription activity reduce the proliferation of beta cells and unabated apoptosis. We investigated the association of polymorphisms rs2233575 and rs712701 (His321Pro; H321P) in PAX4 in a case-control study. Euro-Brazilian children with T1D (n = 148) and healthy children (control, n = 168) were matched by gender and age. Genotyping of the polymorphisms was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (for rs2233575) and TaqMan® fluorescent probe assay (for rs712701). rs712701 was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The minor allele frequency (T-allele) for healthy and T1D subjects was 26.5% [95% CI, 22–31] and 25.3% [95% CI, 20–30], respectively (P = 0.742). For rs2233575, the genotype GG was detected in both groups. The minor allele (T-allele) frequency for rs712701 was similar to that in other Caucasian populations. In conclusion, the polymorphisms rs2233575 and rs712701 were not associated with T1D in the. studied population.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Eugenia brasiliensis Lam. (Myrtaceae) is a Brazilian tree distributed throughout Atlantic rain forest, since Bahia until Santa Catarina state, and is popularly known as “grumixaba, grumixameira, cumbixaba, ibaporoiti, and cereja-brasileira”. The bark and leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis are used in folk medicine as adstringent, diuretic, energizing, anti-rheumatic and anti-inflammatory. This study aimed at investigating the chemical composition, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Eugenia brasiliensis (HEEb). Material and methods Chemical composition of the HEEb was determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography/ESI-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS). The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of HEEb (30–300 mg/kg) was verified in mice after oral administration by intra-gastric gavage (i.g.) 60 min prior to experimentation. It was investigated whether HEEb decreases visceral pain and leukocyte migration induced by an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of acetic acid (0.6%). We also evaluated whether HEEb decreases nociceptive behavior induced by formalin (including paw edema and temperature), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), histamine, and compound 48/80. Finally, we evaluated the effect of HEEb in the chronic inflammatory (mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity) pain induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), as well as quantifying the concentration of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in the paw by ELISA method. Results Seven polyphenols were identified in HEEb by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. HEEb treatment alleviated nocifensive behavior and leukocyte migration caused by acetic acid. Moreover, HEEb also reduced the inflammatory pain and paw temperature induced by formalin, as well as it decreased nociceptive behavior induced by histamine and compound 48/80. Finally, acute and repeated treatment of animals with HEEb (100 mg/kg, i.g.) markedly reduced the mechanical and thermal (heat) hypersensitivity, besides decrease paw edema and temperature induced by CFA, and this effect was evident until the day 7. Moreover, repeated treatment with HEEb (100 mg/kg, i.g.) significantly reduced the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the paw when compared to the CFA group. Conclusions This is the first report showing that HEEb presents antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in the visceral and somatic inflammatory pain in mice, possibly involving the inhibition of histamine receptors and pro-inflammatory cytokines activated pathways. Our results are of interest because they support the use of Eugenia brasiliensis as a potential source of phytomedicine for inflammatory diseases and pain.

Depression is a debilitating disorder in humans that significantly affects quality of life. As such, alternative therapies are highly sought after by patients seeking treatment for depression. Experimentally, the chronic administration of corticosterone (CORT) in rodents has been reported to promote depressive-like behaviors. Herein, animals received saline or CORT for 21 days and, during the last 7 days, they were treated with the crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) of Myrcia pubipetala Miq (50, 100 or 150mg/Kg), or vehicle (distilled water), by oral route. After 24 hours, animals were subjected to the open field (OFT) and forced swimming tests (FST), and then sacrificed for the removal of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex for biochemical analysis. Results showed enhanced catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, as well as an elevated formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), in the cerebral cortex of CORT-treated mice. The chronic administration of the CHE (100 and 150mg/Kg) reduced TBARS and the increased total sulfhydryl content, and also reversed the increase in TBARS induced by CORT. In the hippocampus, CORT increased CAT and SOD activities and reduced glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (C) activity, while Myrcia pubipetala Miq. CHE (100 and 150mg/Kg) increased GSH-Px activity when administered alone and reversed decreased GSH-Px (100 and 150mg/Kg) activity when given during CORT administration. Neither CORT administration nor CHE treatment significantly altered the immobility time of the animals in FST and no changes were observed in the locomotor activity of the animals in the OFT. Findings indicate that the CHE of Myrcia pubipetala Miq. exerts antioxidant effects in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice induced to depression by CORT. Since phenolic compounds are reported to have antioxidant effects in this species, the effects of the CHE may be, at least in part, mediated by the presence of these compounds in Myrcia extract.

Inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and the addition of humic substances (HSs) might contribute to the growth and development of Lippia alba (Mill.) N. E. Brown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the AMF Rhizophagus clarus (Nicolson T.H. & Schenck N.C.), with low and high (20 and 200 mg dm−3 of soil, respectively) additions of phosphorus (P) and with or without HSs in the soil, on the growth and uptake of P and nitrogen (N) by L. alba, and microbial soil quality. The experiment was designed in a completely randomized factorial of 2 × 2 × 2 (with and without AMF, levels of P, and with or without HSs in the soil), with six replications, totaling 48 experimental units. Development of the plant was evaluated by measuring shoot dry matter (SDM), root dry matter (RDM), total dry matter (TDM), chlorophyll index (CI), N content in the shoots, and P in the plant. In addition, spore density and root colonization by AMF, as well as basal soil respiration (BSR), and the microbial biomass carbon (MB-C) and metabolic quotient (qCO2) of the soil were measured. The RDM and TDM, CI, N, and P content in the plant, the spore density and root colonization by AMF, and MB-C and qCO2 were significantly increased with the inoculation of AMF. The addition of P to the soil significantly increased the SDM (up to 74%) and TDM (up to 29%). Plant inoculation with AMF and the addition of HSs and P to the soil increased plant P content (up to 60%) and N in the shoot (up to 74%) compared with that of the control (uninoculated, without HSs and P). The increase in plant uptake of P and N after inoculation with AMF and addition of HSs and P to the soil stimulated growth of L. alba. It was concluded that inoculation with AMF, with the addition of HSs and P, increased growth and the content of N and P of L. alba.

We investigated the effects of chronic administration of crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) and crude acetone extract (CAE) obtained from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis species on hypertriglyceridemia and oxidative stress caused by the chronic administration of coconut oil. Rats received CHE or CAE (50, 100 or 150mg/kg, orally) for 30days, plus coconut oil (2mL, orally) or saline for 15th. Triglyceride levels, liver cell lipid accumulation, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBA-RS), total sulfhydryl content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were evaluated in the blood and liver of rats. Results showed that chronic administration of CHE or CAE was able to prevent hypertriglyceridemia and decrease the lipid droplets in liver cells, as well as the increase in TBA-RS, the reduction in total sulfhydryl content and CAT activity in the blood and prevent total or partial the increase in CAT and reduction in SOD and GSH-Px activities in the liver. These findings indicate that both extracts may have hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects.

The aim of the current report is to provide guidance relevant to psychological evaluation for healthcare providers and researchers working in the field of disorders of sexual development (DSD). In doing so, we give careful consideration to methodological issues and limitations that may influence the utility of investigations. For example, rarity and heterogeneity of DSD conditions restrict sample sizes when conducting evaluations aimed at establishing condition-specific psychological outcomes. At the same time, the potential for stigmatization by virtue of conducting psychological evaluations is particularly high given the fundamental contribution of sex and gender to one's sense of self and integrity. This article will provide basic theory for psychological evaluation as well as give a review of specific measures that can be employed for clinical purposes depending on a variety of parameters, including life stage of the patient and goal(s) of the evaluation. Care providers and service users may benefit from guidance in coping with the difficulties inherent in having and/or treating DSD. The potential for identification with the patient with DSD is higher than in other domains of medicine because sexual and gender identities are fundamental to all humans and are continually evolving from a sociological perspective.

Integrity of the musculoskeletal system is essential for the transfer of muscular contraction force to the associated bones. Tendons and skeletal muscles intertwine, but on a cellular level, the myotendinous junctions (MTJs) display a sharp transition zone with a highly specific molecular adaption. The function of MTJs could go beyond a mere structural role and might include homeostasis of this musculoskeletal tissue compound, thus also being involved in skeletal muscle regeneration. Repair processes recapitulate several developmental mechanisms, and as myotendinous interaction does occur already during development, MTJs could likewise contribute to muscle regeneration. Recent studies identified tendon-related, scleraxis-expressing cells that reside in close proximity to the MTJs and the muscle belly. As the muscle-specific function of these scleraxis positive cells is unknown, we compared the influence of two immortalized mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) lines&mdash, differing only by the overexpression of scleraxis&mdash, on myoblasts morphology, metabolism, migration, fusion, and alignment. Our results revealed a significant increase in myoblast fusion and metabolic activity when exposed to the secretome derived from scleraxis-overexpressing MSCs. However, we found no significant changes in myoblast migration and myofiber alignment. Further analysis of differentially expressed genes between native MSCs and scleraxis-overexpressing MSCs by RNA sequencing unraveled potential candidate genes, i.e., extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, transmembrane receptors, or proteases that might enhance myoblast fusion. Our results suggest that musculotendinous interaction is essential for the development and healing of skeletal muscles.

The epidemiological importance of bacteria from the genusMycobacteriumis indisputable and the necessity to find new molecules that can inhibit their growth is urgent. The shikimate pathway, required for the synthesis of important metabolites in bacteria, represents a target for inhibitors ofMycobacterium tuberculosisgrowth. ThearoA-encoded 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme catalyzes the sixth step of the shikimate pathway. In this study, we combined gene knockout, gene knockdown and kinetic assays to evaluatearoAgene essentiality and the vulnerability of its protein product, EPSPS synthase fromMycobacterium smegmatis(MsEPSPS), under different nutritional conditions. We demonstrate by an allelic exchange-based gene knockout approach the essentiality ofMsEPSPS under rich and poor nutritional conditions. By performing gene complementation experiments with wild-type (WT) and point mutant versions ofaroAgene, together with kinetic assays using WT and mutant recombinant proteins, we show thataroAgene essentiality depends onMsEPSPS activity. To evaluateMsEPSPS vulnerability, we performed gene knockdown experiments using the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats interference (CRISPRi) system. The experiments were performed in both rich and defined (poor) media, using three different repression forces foraroAgene. We only observed growth impairment when bacteria were grown in defined medium without supplementation of aromatic amino acids, thereby indicating thatMsEPSPS vulnerability depends on the environment conditions.ImportanceWe evaluated both gene essentiality and target vulnerability of the enzyme that catalyzes the sixth step of the shikimate pathway, thearoA-encoded 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase fromMycobacterium smegmatis(MsEPSPS). Combining gene knockout experiments and kinetic assays, we established a causal link betweenaroAgene essentiality and the biological function of EPSPS protein, which we advocate is an indispensable step for target validation. Moreover, we characterizedMsEPSPS vulnerability under different nutritional conditions and found it is a vulnerable target only whenM. smegmatisis grown under poor nutritional conditions without supplementation with aromatic amino acids. Based on our findings, we suggest that gene essentiality information should be obtained from gene knockout experiments and not knockdown approaches, as even low levels of a protein after gene silencing can lead to a different growth phenotype when compared to that under its complete absence, as was the case witharoAandMsEPSPS in our study.

The intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is thought to be closely related to ingrowth of new blood vessels. However, the impact of anti‐angiogenic factors in the maintenance of IVD avascularity remains unknown. Tenomodulin (Tnmd) is a tendon/ligament‐specific marker and anti‐angiogenic factor with abundant expression in the IVD. It is still unclear whether Tnmd contributes to the maintenance of IVD homeostasis, acting to inhibit vascular ingrowth into this normally avascular tissue. Herein, we investigated whether IVD degeneration could be induced spontaneously by the absence of Tnmd. Our results showed that Tnmd was expressed in an age‐dependent manner primarily in the outer annulus fibrous (OAF) and it was downregulated at 6 months of age corresponding to the early IVD degeneration stage in mice. Tnmd knockout (Tnmd − / −) mice exhibited more rapid progression of age‐related IVD degeneration. These signs include smaller collagen fibril diameter, markedly lower compressive stiffness, reduced multiple IVD‐ and tendon/ligament‐related gene expression, induced angiogenesis, and macrophage infiltration in OAF, as well as more hypertrophic‐like chondrocytes in the nucleus pulposus. In addition, Tnmd and chondromodulin I (Chm1, the only homologous gene to Tnmd) double knockout (Tnmd − / − Chm1 − / −) mice displayed not only accelerated IVD degeneration, but also ectopic bone formation of IVD. Lastly, the absence of Tnmd in OAF‐derived cells promoted p65 and matrix metalloproteinases upregulation, and increased migratory capacity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In sum, our data provide clear evidences that Tnmd acts as an angiogenic inhibitor in the IVD homeostasis and protects against age‐related IVD degeneration. Targeting Tnmd may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for attenuating age‐related IVD degeneration., Cartoon highlighting the hallmarks of Tnmd−/− intervertebral disc (IVD) phenotype. Tnmd−/− mice exhibited more rapid progression of age‐related IVD degeneration. These signs include lower disc height index, smaller collagen fibrils with lower compressive stiffness in the outer annulus fibrosus, reduced multiple IVD‐ and tendon/ligament‐related gene expression, induced angiogenesis and macrophage infiltration in outer annulus fibrous, as well as more hypertrophic‐like chondrocytes in the nucleus pulposus.

The application of liposuctioned white adipose tissue (L-WAT) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) as a novel immunomodulatory treatment option is the currently subject of various clinical trials. Because it is crucial to understand the underlying therapeutic mechanisms, the latest studies focused on the immunomodulatory functions of L-WAT or ADSCs. However, studies that examine the specific transcriptional adaptation of these treatment options to an extrinsic inflammatory stimulus in an unbiased manner are scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the gene expression profile of L-WAT and ADSCs, when subjected to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF&alpha, ), and to identify key factors that might be therapeutically relevant when using L-WAT or ADSCs as an immuno-modulator. Fat tissue was harvested by liposuction from five human donors. ADSCs were isolated from the same donors and shortly subjected to expansion culture. L-WAT and ADSCs were treated with human recombinant TNF&alpha, to trigger a strong inflammatory response. Subsequently, an mRNA deep nextgeneration sequencing was performed to evaluate the different inflammatory responses of L-WAT and ADSCs. We found significant gene expression changes in both experimental groups after TNF&alpha, incubation. However, ADSCs showed a more homogenous gene expression profile by predominantly expressing genes involved in immunomodulatory processes such as CCL19, CCL5, TNFSF15 and IL1b when compared to L-WAT, which reacted rather heterogeneously. As RNA sequencing between L-WAT and ADSCS treated with TNF&alpha, revealed that L-WAT responded very heterogeneously to TNF&alpha, treatment, we therefore conclude that ADSCs are more reliable and predictable when used therapeutically. Our study furthermore yields insight into potential biological processes regarding immune system response, inflammatory response, and cell activation. Our results can help to better understand the different immunomodulatory effects of L-WAT and ADSCs.

Background : Wounds and lacerations are constant in the clinical routine of horses. The treatment of wounds by the second intention is the most common in the equine clinic; it consists in addition to surgical debridement, the use of allopathic or phytotherapeutic healing. In this context, several phytotherapics used in folk medicine have been used with promising results in the equine species, especially marigold ( Calendula officinalis L.), recognized by the German scientific committee as antiseptic and healing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the nonionic cream of Calendula officinalis at 2% in an extensive lacerating wound in an equine. Case : A 6-month-old female Quarter Horse, weighing 160 kg, a lacerating wound in the pectoral region of unknown traumatic origin, was treated in the large animal sector of the Veterinary Hospital of Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR). Clinical examination revealed an exudative wound in the pectoral region, complicated by the presence of environmental organic matter and myiasis, involving transverse pectoral and descending pectoral muscles, with a large tissue separation and exposure of part of the first sternum. After an initial evaluation, a trichotomy was performed around the wound, removal of myiasis and sanitization of the wound with water and PVP-I, which was filled with sterile dressings and covered with a dressing using a tubular mesh. Antibiotic therapy was instituted, along with anti-inflammatory medication and antitetanic serum (5,000 IU). Due to the need for surgical debridement, after previous fasting and general anesthesia followed by site antisepsis, surgical debridement was performed, followed by reduction of dead space with application of standard "Wolf" sutures, for re-approximation of the wound edges was applied suture in Wolf pattern captonated with segments of equipment. In the post-surgical period, topical treatment with nitrofurazone ointment and crystal sugar was instituted. However, after five days of the surgical procedure, there was dehiscence of the wound, at which time another intervention was chosen. After sedation remaining in standard anatomical position, sutures of the same pattern and wire were applied, but captonated with polyester buds and wound dressing was instituted, followed by the application of nonionic cream of marigold ( C. officinalis ) extract, in the concentration of 2%, twice a day until complete healing of the wound. Discussion : The use of nonionic marigold cream ( C. officinalis ) 2% showed a significant efficacy, in the case reported, corroborating with literature data that marigold presented an advantage in the inflammatory phase of the healing process, when compared to the other two substances, favored epithelization and demonstrated bactericidal action. This activity is reported to the substances present in C. officinalis , especially the flavonoids, which are phenolic compounds derived from the secondary metabolism of plants. In addition to phenolic compounds such as triterpenes, faradiol esters and taraxasterol are considered responsible for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and angiogenic activities, actions that contribute directly or indirectly to the healing process. The present report contributes positively to the use of alternative treatments in wounds as the phytotherapeutic in question, since it proved feasible, besides avoiding the use of allopathic ones with higher associated costs and environmental impact in its production and use, as well as the emergence of bacterial resistance.

One of the major challenges today for research groups on natural products distributed around the world is the discovery of substances that are bioactive, as well as their respective analogues. Thus, plants represent an important study target in the search for these new substances, being considered a promising source of molecular diversity for selective enzymatic inhibitors and synthesis for numerous bioactive compounds. The Brazilian biodiversity is one of the richest on the planet: it encompasses from 15 to 25% of all plant species, with a high rate of biological endemism, dispersed in unique biomes. A wide variety of micro- and macromolecular metabolites have been obtained, and several substances present biological and pharmacological activities with potential for the development of supplements alimentary, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides prototypes. In this context, this chapter documents the enzyme inhibitory potential of Myrtaceae, Lauraceae, and Piperaceae families from Brazilian Flora.

Sugarcane crop conventional tillage has been replaced by deep soil preparation with few studies about its effect on soil quality and sustainability. The aim of this study was to assess structural volumes ina dystrophic Red-Yellow Latosol subjected to conventional tillage (CT) and deep localized soil tillage (DLST) to verify how the microbiological parameters were affected. The study was conducted in a soil derived from the Caiuá Sandstone formation in Brazil. Four trenches were dug for each soil tillage system to describe the cultural profile and evaluate carbon microbial biomass (CMB) and nitrogen (NMB), basal respiration (BR), and metabolic quotient (qCO2). CT profiles exhibited a predominance of cracked soil volumes, medium-sized and large compact clods with some porosity, and continuous volumes with no cracks and of intermediate porosity. DLST profiles were predominantly free-soil volume with no cohesion and porous in appearance, and compact, cohesive volumes with no porosity visible. The highest levels of CMB and NMB were in the cracked soil under CT. Higher microbial activity indicated by BR and qCO2 were in the free powdery soil under DLST. Soil pulverization caused by DLST could cause serious consequences on soil functionality, boosting erosion, and metabolic stress in the microbiota.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T02:12:50Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-09-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus reuteri applied locally or systemically with scaling and root planing (SRP) to the treatment of experimental periodontitis (EP) in rats treated with 5-fluorouracil. Methods: A cotton ligature was installed on the molars of rats. The animals (n = 54) underwent chemotherapy and were divided into groups: SRP (n = 18), scaling and root planing only; LP (n = 18), SRP and 4 sessions of local probiotic (PRO); SP, SRP and 4 sessions of systemic PRO. The molar furcation area was submitted to histopathological, histometric of alveolar bone loss (ABL) and immunolabeling analysis after euthanasia at 7, 15 and 30 days. The data were submitted to statistical analysis (α = 5%). Results: At 15 days ABL was higher in LP compared to SP. At 30 days, ABL was higher in LP compared to SRP and SP. Higher immunolabeling of TGF-β1 was observed in LP and SP at 7 days compared to SRP (p < 0.05). Lower immunolabeling of OCN and higher immunolabeling of RANKL were observed at all periods in SRP compared to SP (p < 0.05). At 30 days, SRP showed lower immunolabeling of OPG compared to SP and LP (p < 0.05). In SP, lower immunolabeling was observed at 15 days compared at 30 days (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The ABL was similar among the groups treated with SRP associated or not to probiotic therapeutic, although the systemic use of Lactobacillus reuteri considerably reduced inflammation and favored periodontal tissues repair. Periodontics Division Department of Diagnosis and Surgery School of Dentistry of Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Latin American Institute of Dental Research and Education (ILAPEO) Department of Basic Sciences School of Dentistry of Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto São Paulo University (USP) Periodontics Division Department of Diagnosis and Surgery School of Dentistry of Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Basic Sciences School of Dentistry of Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) CAPES: 001 CAPES: 302907/2013-0

Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes mellitus are contemporary diseases of great concern. Phenolic compounds are linked to several health benefits and could lead to novel strategies to combat these ailments. The objective of this study was to evaluate by electrophoretically-mediated microanalysis the potential inhibitory activity of the fruit juices from Plinia cauliflora (“jaboticaba”) and Eugenia uniflora (“pitanga”) toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and α-glucosidase, target enzymes in strategies for the treatment of these diseases. The phenolic profiles of the samples were also investigated. Jaboticaba and pitanga juices inhibited 85.90 ± 1.73 and 52.67 ± 1.24% of AChE activity at 5 mg mL−1, and 57.91 ± 2.60 and 69.47 ± 2.89% of α-glucosidase activity at 1 mg mL−1, respectively. Total phenolic content of the juices were 303.54 ± 28.28 and 367.00 ± 11.42 mgGA L−1, respectively. The observed inhibitory activity can be explained, at least in part, by the presence of the phenolic compounds.

Background Evidence suggests that red wine (RW) components can influence favorably gut microbiota. However, Interactions of RW, gut microbiota and plasma metabolomics remain unclear. Purpose The goal of this study was to assess the effects upon gut microbiota and plasma metabolomic profile of short-term, moderate RW intake in patients (pts) with documented coronary artery disease (CAD) Methods Forty-two males aged 60.4±5.4 years (SD) with documented CAD by angiography underwent a randomized, crossover, controlled, interventional trial. They were assigned to either RW treatment or abstinence from any alcoholic beverage, as control. Each treatment was preceded by a 2-week washout period. During the RW intervention, subjects ingested 250 ml of RW per day/ 5 days a week/ 3 weeks. Fasting blood samples and fecal samples were collected 4 times, after washout and at the end of each 3-week intervention. Gut microbiota was analysed by 16 S rRNA gene sequences and plasma metabolomics was performed by Ultrahigh Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectroscopy. Twenty pts chosen randomly had their global metabolic profiles examined at all visits. Diet was carefully controlled and quantified by a 3 day/week questionnaire at beginning and end of the study. Prebiotics, probiotics were not allowed during the study. Patients in need for antibiotic therapy were not included. Results In the RW period compared to abstinence, fecal metagenomic revealed a decrease in abundance of Collinsella, a bacterial genus correlated with atherosclerosis; an increase in Eubacterium, genus related to fiber digestion and bile acid metabolism; and a significant increase in alpha diversity (p Conclusions Moderate RW ingestion augmented microbiota diversity, increased the proportion of putative anti-atherosclerotic bacteria and influenced plasma metabolomics. RW influenced energy metabolism through gut microbiota related plasma changes in amino acids, nucleotide profile, bile acids, androgenic steroids and beta-oxidation. These findings furnish some novel insight into mechanisms whereby RW may mitigate atherosclerosis. Acknowledgement/Funding FAPESP (Fundacao de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo), IBRAVIN (Instituto Brasileiro do Vinho), Banco Bradesco SA

EnglishThis research sought to know the subjective meanings at-tributed to the schooling process by black women in southern Santa Catarina. Among ethnic-racial and gender issues, the search for equality emerges as thematic, especially in educa-tional spaces such as schools and universities. It is a field re-search, qualitative of exploratory nature. In this research were interviewed ten black women of an association related to the black movement of the city researched. As a result, the inter-viewees reported experiencing prejudice at school and in the community, as well as difficulties in continuing their studiesdue to low family income. At the same time, they pointed outthe importance of schooling in their life histories, above all, asa way of social ascension. Keywords: Gender; Race; Education. portuguesEsta pesquisa buscou conhecer os sentidos subjetivos atribuidos ao processo deescolarizacao por mulheres negras no sul catarinense. Em meio as questoes etnico-raciais e degenero, a busca pela igualdade surge como tematica, sobretudo em espacos educativos, comoescolas e universidades. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa de cunho exploratorio. Nestapesquisa foram entrevistadas dez mulheres negras de uma associacao relacionada aomovimento negro da cidade pesquisada. Como resultados, as entrevistadas relataram tervivenciado o preconceito na escola e na comunidade, alem de dificuldades em darcontinuidade aos estudos por conta da baixa renda familiar. Ao mesmo tempo, apontaram aimportância da escolarizacao em suas historias de vidas, sobretudo, como via de ascensaosocial. Palavras-chave: Genero; Raca; Educacao.