RESUMEN
The dopaminergic system plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis between the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system. Previous studies have associated imbalances in the dopaminergic system to the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we examined the protein levels of dopaminergic receptors (D1R and D2R) in different phases of the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model. We also investigated if the treatment with pramipexole (PPX)-a dopamine D2/D3 receptor-preferring agonist-would be able to prevent EAE-induced motor and mood dysfunction, as well as its underlying mechanisms of action. We report that D2R immunocontent is upregulated in the spinal cord of EAE mice 14 days post-induction. Moreover, D1R and D2R immunocontents in lymph nodes and the oxidative damage in the spinal cord and striatum of EAE animals were significantly increased during the chronic phase. Also, during the pre-symptomatic phase, axonal damage in the spinal cord of EAE mice could already be found. Surprisingly, therapeutic treatment with PPX failed to inhibit the progression of EAE. Of note, PPX treatment inhibited EAE-induced depressive-like while failed to inhibit anhedonic-like behaviors. We observed that PPX treatment downregulated IL-1ß levels and increased BNDF content in the spinal cord after EAE induction. Herein, we show that a D2/D3 receptor-preferred agonist mitigated EAE-induced depressive-like behavior, which could serve as a new possibility for further clinical trials on treating depressive symptoms in MS patients. Thus, we infer that D2R participates in the crosstalk between CNS and immune system during autoimmune and neuroinflammatory response induced by EAE, mainly in the acute and chronic phase of the disease.
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Encefalomielitis Autoinmune Experimental/metabolismo , Receptores de Dopamina D1/fisiología , Receptores de Dopamina D2/fisiología , Anhedonia/efectos de los fármacos , Anhedonia/fisiología , Animales , Axones/patología , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/biosíntesis , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/genética , Cuerpo Estriado/metabolismo , Depresión/etiología , Depresión/prevención & control , Progresión de la Enfermedad , Evaluación Preclínica de Medicamentos , Encefalomielitis Autoinmune Experimental/tratamiento farmacológico , Encefalomielitis Autoinmune Experimental/psicología , Femenino , Interleucina-1beta/biosíntesis , Interleucina-1beta/genética , Ganglios Linfáticos/metabolismo , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Enfermedades Neuroinflamatorias/tratamiento farmacológico , Enfermedades Neuroinflamatorias/metabolismo , Estrés Oxidativo , Fragmentos de Péptidos/biosíntesis , Fragmentos de Péptidos/genética , Pramipexol/farmacología , Pramipexol/uso terapéutico , Receptores de Dopamina D2/agonistas , Receptores de Dopamina D3/agonistas , Método Simple Ciego , Médula Espinal/metabolismo , Médula Espinal/patologíaRESUMEN
We put forward a novel, twofold scheme that enables, at the same time, all-optical enantioselection and sorting of single multipolar chiral microspheres based on optical pulling forces exerted by two non-collinear, non-structured, circularly polarized light sources. Our chiral resolution method can be externally controlled by varying the angle between their incident wavevectors, allowing for fine-tuning of the range of chiral indices for enantioselection. Enantioselectivity is achieved by choosing angles such that only particles with the same handedness of the light sources are pulled. This proposal allows one to achieve all-optical sorting of chiral microspheres with arbitrarily small chiral parameters, thus outperforming current optical methods.
RESUMEN
In post-operative scenarios of arterial graft surgeries to bypass coronary artery stenosis, fluid dynamics plays a crucial role. Problems such as intimal hyperplasia have been related to fluid dynamics and wall shear stresses near the graft junction. This study focused on the question of the use of Newtonian and non-Newtonian models to represent blood in this type of problem in order to capture important flow features, as well as an analysis of the performance of geometry from the view of Constructive Theory. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects rheology on the steady-state flow and on the performance of a system consisting of an idealized version of a partially obstructed coronary artery and bypass graft. The Constructal Design Method was employed with two degrees of freedom: the ratio between bypass and artery diameters and the junction angle at the bypass inlet. The flow problem was solved numerically using the Finite Volume Method with blood modeled employing the Carreau equation for viscosity. The Computational Fluid Dynamics model associated with the Sparse Grid method generated eighteen response surfaces, each representing a severe stenosis degree of 75% for specific combinations of rheological parameters, dimensionless viscosity ratio, Carreau number and flow index at two distinct Reynolds numbers of 150 and 250. There was a considerable dependence of the pressure drop on rheological parameters. For the two Reynolds numbers studied, the Newtonian case presented the lowest value of the dimensionless pressure drop, suggesting that the choice of applying Newtonian blood may underestimate the value of pressure drop in the system by about 12.4% (Re =150) and 7.8% (Re = 250). Even so, results demonstrated that non-Newtonian rheological parameters did not influence either the shape of the response surfaces or the optimum bypass geometry, which consisted of a diameter ratio of 1 and junction angle of 30°. However, the viscosity ratio and the flow index had the greatest impact on pressure drop, recirculation zones and wall shear stress. Rheological parameters also affected the recirculation zones downstream of stenosis, where intimal hyperplasia is more prevalent. Newtonian and most non-Newtonian results had similar wall shear stresses, except for the non-Newtonian case with high viscosity ratio. In the view of Constructal Design, the geometry of best performance was independent of the rheological model. However, rheology played an important role on pressure drop and flow dynamics, allowing the prediction of recirculation zones that were not captured by a Newtonian model.
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Vasos Coronarios , Hidrodinámica , Velocidad del Flujo Sanguíneo , Modelos Cardiovasculares , Reología , Estrés Mecánico , ViscosidadRESUMEN
We show that the optical force field in optical tweezers with elliptically polarized beams has the opposite handedness for a wide range of particle sizes and for the most common configurations. Our method is based on the direct observation of the particle equilibrium position under the effect of a transverse Stokes drag force, and its rotation around the optical axis by the mechanical effect of the optical torque. We find overall agreement with theory, with no fitting, provided that astigmatism, which is characterized separately, is included in the theoretical description. Our work opens the way for characterization of the trapping parameters, such as the microsphere complex refractive index and the astigmatism of the optical system, from measurements of the microsphere rotation angle.
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Genomic imbalances are the most common cause of congenital anomalies (CA) and intellectual disability (ID). The aims of this study were to identify copy number variations (CNVs) in 416 patients with CA and ID from 5 different genetics centers within 4 different states by using the Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) technique and to apply the chromosomal microarray (CMA) methodology in selected cases. The samples were analyzed by MLPA kits P064, P036, P070 and P250. Positive results were found in 97/416 (23.3%) patients. CMA was applied in 14 selected cases. In 6/14 (42.85%) patients, CMA detected other copy number variations not detected by the MLPA studies. Although CMA is indispensable for genotype refinement, the technique is still unfeasible in some countries as a routine analysis due to economic and technical limitations. In these cases, clinical evaluation followed by karyotyping and MLPA analysis is a helpful and affordable solution for diagnostic purposes.
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Anomalías Congénitas/genética , Discapacidad Intelectual/genética , Adolescente , Adulto , Brasil , Niño , Preescolar , Femenino , Dosificación de Gen , Humanos , Lactante , Masculino , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa MultiplexRESUMEN
This retrospective study was performed to evaluate the bone thickness of the anterior maxillary region after reconstruction with autogenous bone blocks at 6 months and 5 years after surgery using computed tomography (CT) and to determine the implant survival rate. Eleven patients with a horizontal bone deficiency were treated with reconstructive procedures and implant placement. CT measurements were obtained before surgery (T0) and at 6 months (T1) and 5 years (T2) after surgery. The values were analysed statistically (analysis of variance and Tukey's test; P<0.05). Implant survival was evaluated at follow-up. The mean width of the lower region of the ridge (±standard deviation, in millimetres) was 3.8±1.6 at T0, 7.0±1.6 at T1, and 6.5±1.0 at T2; the mean width of the upper region of the ridge was 5.7±2.3 at T0, 8.3±2.2 at T1, and 7.3±1.6 at T2. The mean total thickness of the ridge was 4.7mm at T0, 7.6mm at T1, and 6.9mm at T2; the average increase in horizontal thickness was 2.9mm at T1 and 2.2mm at T2. A statistically significant difference was observed in the mean width of the lower portion at T1 and T2 compared to the width at T0. The implant survival rate was 94.1%. This technique demonstrated high predictability for implant survival, with a reduction in the graft bone during the follow-up period.
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Aumento de la Cresta Alveolar/métodos , Trasplante Óseo/métodos , Implantes Dentales , Maxilar/diagnóstico por imagen , Maxilar/cirugía , Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X , Adulto , Implantación Dental Endoósea/métodos , Estética Dental , Femenino , Supervivencia de Injerto , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estudios Retrospectivos , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the costs of using a transparent polyurethane film (PF) and hydrocolloid dressing (HD) in the prevention of pressure ulcers (PUs). METHOD: This descriptive, observational, longitudinal, comparative study was conducted in the intensive care units, coronary care unit and medical clinic of a charity hospital in Brazil. Data were collected during a 30-day study period, consisting of physical examination, assessment of risk factors for PU development and application of the Braden scale, which were performed at inclusion in the study and once daily during hospitalisation. Either PF or HD was applied bilaterally in the sacral and trochanteric regions for prevention of PUs in patients at a moderate to high risk of PUs according to the Braden scale, and costs of using PU preventive dressings were estimated. RESULTS: The mean total costs per dressing change per patient when using the HD and PF to prevent PUs were 413.60 BRL and 74.04 BRL, respectively. There were significant between-group differences in mean costs for all variables, except for saline solution and nurse-technician services. CONCLUSION: Results showed that the mean cost per dressing change per patient was lower when using the transparent PF than when using the HD.
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Vendas Hidrocoloidales/economía , Apósitos Oclusivos/economía , Poliuretanos/uso terapéutico , Úlcera por Presión/terapia , Cicatrización de Heridas/fisiología , Brasil , Costos y Análisis de Costo , Femenino , Humanos , MasculinoRESUMEN
Evidences suggest protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) activation is involved in both inflammatory and neuropathic pains. We have previously shown that tetracyclic triterpene euphol produces antinociception in different models of persistent pain, an action associated with its anti-inflammatory properties. Among these properties are the cannabinoid system activation and different PKC isozymes modulation. Herein, we sought to explore the potential role of PKCε modulation on euphol antinociceptive effect, in inflammatory and neuropathic pain models, in rodents. Also, we investigated further mechanisms associated with euphol effects. Oral treatment with euphol (30 mg/kg) prevented the putative effect of PGE2-induced acute and persistent mechanical hypersensitivity in mice and rats, respectively. In the PGE2-induced acute mechanical hypersensitivity euphol promoted an inhibitory effect similar to a PKCε inhibitor peptide. Likewise, in rats it prevented the mechanical hypersensitivity induced by a PKCε activator. Conversely, euphol effectiveness was not observed in a cAMP/PKA-induced mechanical hypersensitivity in mice. Single (1h prior) or repeated (twice daily during 3 or 13 days) treatments with euphol ameliorated painful peripheral neuropathy induced by paclitaxel and also the mechanical hypersensitivity induced by B16F10 melanoma cells injection, in mice. Additionally, in both inflammatory and neuropathic pain models, euphol consistently prevented PKCε up-regulation, as well as, inhibited the up-regulation of PKCε-activated intracellular pathways; namely nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) and cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2). The present results suggest the antinociceptive effect on persistent pain caused by euphol is likely dependent on the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators modulated by PKCε.
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Analgésicos/administración & dosificación , Lanosterol/análogos & derivados , Dolor/metabolismo , Dolor/prevención & control , Proteína Quinasa C-epsilon/metabolismo , Animales , Antiinflamatorios/administración & dosificación , Dinoprostona/administración & dosificación , Mediadores de Inflamación/metabolismo , Lanosterol/administración & dosificación , Masculino , Ratones , Dolor/inducido químicamente , Umbral del Dolor/efectos de los fármacos , Proteína Quinasa C-epsilon/administración & dosificación , Ratas , Ratas Wistar , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacosRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance and effectiveness of a hydrocolloid dressing (HD) and a transparent polyurethane film (PF) in preventing pressure ulcer (PU) development. METHOD: The study was conducted in the intensive care unit, coronary care unit and medical clinic of the Holy House of Mercy of Passos, Brazil. Data were collected 48 hours after admission and during hospitalisation. The Braden scale was used for PU risk assessment. Consecutive eligible patients without PUs were randomly assigned by lottery to the two groups, either the HD or PF group. RESULTS: Of the 160 eligible patients, significant between-group differences were found in the mean total number of dressing changes (HD, 6.09±1.655 changes; PF, 5.59±2.036 changes; p=0.010), and mean number of dressing changes in the sacral region (HD, 2.50±0.871; PF, 2.05±0.825; p=0.001), with the PF group requiring significantly fewer changes than the HD group. The most common reasons for changing dressings in both groups were moisture (PF 51.1%; HD 47.9%) and shear (HD 43%; PF 38.9%), with a significant difference in shear between groups. The incidence of PUs was significantly lower (p=0.038) in the PF group (8.7%) compared with that in the HD group (15%). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the transparent polyurethane film had a better performance and was more effective than the hydrocolloid dressing in preventing PU development.
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Vendas Hidrocoloidales , Coloides/uso terapéutico , Apósitos Oclusivos , Poliuretanos/uso terapéutico , Úlcera por Presión/prevención & control , Cicatrización de Heridas/fisiología , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Brasil , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana EdadRESUMEN
ABSTRACT The permanent investigation of new antimycobacterial drugs is necessary for the eradication programs of tuberculosis and other mycobacterium-related diseases. The aim of the present study is to search for new sources of antimycobacterial drugs using plant materials. In this study, 11 plant materials (extracts, essential oils and some fractions) obtained from 4 species of medicinal plants traditionally used as general therapeutics for different illnesses and specifically as treatment of tuberculosis, were evaluated using the microplate resazurin assay against 2 species of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex and 3 nontuberculous mycobacteria. The results showed the hexane extract and the essential oil from fruits of Pterodonemarginatus (Vogel) as potential sources of antimycobacterial drugs against 4 species of tested mycobacteria. The hexane fraction of methanol extract from leaves of Centella asiatica also presented significant mycobacterial growth inhibition, but against M. chelonae only. In conclusion, it was possible to contribute to the antimycobacterial investigations by presenting three new samples of plants with significant antimicrobial activity against four Mycobacteriumspp and suggest future studies about the antimycobacterial properties of fruits from P. emarginatus.
RESUMO A investigação permanente de novas drogas antimicobacterianas é necessária no programa de erradicação da tuberculose e de outras doenças relacionadas com micobactérias. O objetivo deste estudo foi buscar novas fontes de drogas antimicobacterianas usando material vegetal. Neste estudo, 11 materiais de base vegetal (extratos, óleos essenciais e algumas frações) foram avaliados contra 5 espécies de micobactérias. Estes materiais foram obtidos a partir de 4 espécies de plantas medicinais tradicionalmente utilizadas como terapêutica geral para diferentes doenças e, especificamente, no tratamento de tuberculose (Baccharis dracunculifolia, Centella asiatica, Lantana camara, Pterodon emarginatus). Os ensaios foram realizados em microplacas com resazurina contra duas espécies do Complexo Mycobacteriumtuberculosis e 3 espécies de micobactérias não tuberculosas. Os resultados mostraram o extrato hexânico e o óleo essencial de frutos de P.emarginatus como potenciais fontes para drogas antimicobacterianas contra quatro espécies de micobactérias testadas. A fração hexânica do extrato metanólico das folhas de C. asiatica também apresentou significativa inibição do crescimento de micobactérias apenas contra M.chelonae. Em conclusão, foi possível contribuir para as investigações de antimicobacterianos por apresentar três novas amostras de plantas com atividade antimicrobiana significativa contra quatro Mycobacterium spp e sugerir a realização de estudos futuros sobre as propriedades antimicobacterianas de frutos de P. emarginatus.
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/clasificación , Baccharis/clasificación , Lantana/clasificación , Antiinfecciosos/farmacología , Plantas , Micobacterias no TuberculosasRESUMEN
ß-Caryophyllene (BCP), a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene present in several essential oils, displays analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. Astrocytes are a major class of glial cells that regulate extracellular ion balance, repair and scarring processes in the CNS following neuroinflammatory conditions and traumatic injuries. This study sought to determine the protective effect of BCP against glutamate (Glu)-induced cytotoxicity in the C6 glioma cell line on neurochemical parameters as well as their biochemical mechanism. Glu increases intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and induces mitochondrial dysfunction as well as decreasing antioxidant defenses such as glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase activity. BCP prevented C6 cells from Glu-induced cytotoxicity by modulating the cellular antioxidant response, mainly by inhibiting ROS production and reestablishing the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm). Moreover, BCP per se induced the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) which was reflected by improvement in the cellular GSH antioxidant system. Taken together, our results suggest that cytoprotective effects of BCP were mediated by the amelioration of cellular antioxidant responses via Nrf2 activation, which is, in part, dependent on cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) activation. This functional nonpsychoactive CB2R ligand, could represent an important molecule for protection of glial cells against oxidative stress induced by glutamate.
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Astrocitos/efectos de los fármacos , Ácido Glutámico/toxicidad , Factor 2 Relacionado con NF-E2/metabolismo , Fármacos Neuroprotectores/farmacología , Sesquiterpenos/farmacología , Animales , Astrocitos/fisiología , Línea Celular Tumoral , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Supervivencia Celular/fisiología , Relación Dosis-Respuesta a Droga , Glutatión/metabolismo , Glutatión Peroxidasa/metabolismo , Potencial de la Membrana Mitocondrial/efectos de los fármacos , Potencial de la Membrana Mitocondrial/fisiología , Mitocondrias/efectos de los fármacos , Mitocondrias/fisiología , Sesquiterpenos Policíclicos , Ratas , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno/metabolismoRESUMEN
A thiophene-modified screen printed electrode (SPE) for detection of the Dengue virus non-structural protein 1 (NS1), an important marker for acute phase diagnosis, is described. A sulfur-containing heterocyclic compound, the thiophene was incorporated to a carbon ink to prepare reproducible screen printed electrodes. After cured, the thiophene SPE was coated by gold nanoparticles conjugated to Protein A to form a nanostrutured surface. The Anti-NS1 antibodies immobilized via their Fc portions via Protein A, leaving their antigen specific sites free circumventing the problem of a random antibodies immobilization. Amperometric responses to the NS1 protein of dengue virus were obtained by cyclic voltammetries performed in presence of ferrocyanide/ferricyanide as redox probe. The calibration curve of immunosensor showed a linear response from 0.04 µg mL(-1) to 0.6 µg mL(-1) of NS1 with a good linear correlation (r=0.991, p<0.05). The detection limit (0.015 µg mL(-1) NS1) was lower than conventional analytical methods. In this work, thiophene monomers incorporated in the carbon ink enhanced the electroanalytical properties of the SPEs, increasing their reproducibility and sensitivity. This point-of-care testing represents a great potential for use in epidemic situations, facilitating the early diagnosis in acute phase of dengue virus.
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Virus del Dengue/metabolismo , Técnicas Electroquímicas/métodos , Tiofenos/química , Proteínas no Estructurales Virales/análisis , Animales , Anticuerpos/química , Anticuerpos/inmunología , Anticuerpos Inmovilizados/química , Anticuerpos Inmovilizados/inmunología , Técnicas Biosensibles/instrumentación , Técnicas Biosensibles/métodos , Carbono/química , Línea Celular , Técnicas Electroquímicas/instrumentación , Electrodos , Ferricianuros/química , Ferrocianuros/química , Oro/química , Tinta , Nanopartículas del Metal/química , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Espectroscopía Infrarroja por Transformada de Fourier , Proteínas no Estructurales Virales/química , Proteínas no Estructurales Virales/inmunologíaRESUMEN
AIM: To assess feelings of powerlessness in patients with either venous or diabetic foot ulcers. METHODS: This was an exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted from May 2010 to August 2012. Two hundred adult patients with either venous leg ulcers (N=100) or diabetic foot ulcers (N=100) were consecutively recruited from an outpatient wound care clinic of a university hospital in the city of São Paulo (Brazil). Eligibility criteria included patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes and foot ulcers, and those with venous leg ulcers and ankle-arm index between 0.8 and 1.0. Patients unable to respond to a questionnaire due to physical or cognitive deficit were excluded. Two instruments were used for data collection: a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and the Powerlessness Assessment Tool (PAT) for adult patients. RESULTS: Most patients were women, aged 60-70 years, and smokers. Fifty-seven patients (57%) with diabetes had had foot ulcers for 3-6 years and 55 (55%) patients had had venous ulcers for 7-10 years. Wound odor and exudate were present in most ulcers. The total PAT score was significantly higher (P=0.002) for patients with foot ulcers (mean, 57.10) than for patients with venous ulcers (mean, 55.12). The highest mean scores for patients with venous and diabetic foot ulcers were 58.09 and 58.10, respectively, on the "self-perception of decision-making capacity" domain. CONCLUSION: Patients with venous and diabetic foot ulcers had very strong feelings of powerlessness, but these feelings were significantly stronger in those with foot ulcerations.
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Pie Diabético/psicología , Úlcera Varicosa/psicología , Anciano , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Humanos , Persona de Mediana EdadRESUMEN
Diseases such as leishmaniases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in Brazil, and their diagnoses need to be improved. The use of monoclonal antibodies has ensured high specificity to immunodiagnosis. The development of an immunosensor, coupling a monoclonal antibody to a bioelectronic device capable of quickly detecting Leishmania sp. antigens both qualitatively and quantitatively, is a promising alternative for the diagnosis of leishmaniasis due to its high specificity, low cost, and portability, compared with conventional methods. The present work was aimed at developing an immunosensor-based assay for detecting Leishmania infantum antigens in tissues of infected hosts. Four hybridomas producing monoclonal antibodies against L. infantum had their specificity confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These antibodies were immobilized on a gold surface, covered with a thin film of 2-aminoethanethiol (cysteamine) and glutaraldehyde, blocked with glycine, and placed into contact with extracts of L. infantum -infected and noninfected control hamster spleens. The assay was able to detect 1.8 × 10(4) amastigotes/g of infected tissue. These results demonstrated that this assay may be useful for quantifying L. infantum amastigotes in organs of experimental animals for studies on pathogenesis and immunity and that it is a promising tool for the development of a diagnostic method, based on antigen detection, of human and dog visceral leishmaniasis.
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Anticuerpos Monoclonales , Antígenos de Protozoos/aislamiento & purificación , Leishmania infantum/inmunología , Leishmaniasis Visceral/diagnóstico , Bazo/parasitología , Animales , Anticuerpos Monoclonales/inmunología , Anticuerpos Antiprotozoarios/inmunología , Especificidad de Anticuerpos , Técnicas Biosensibles/métodos , Cricetinae , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , Inmunoglobulina G/inmunología , Leishmania infantum/aislamiento & purificación , Mesocricetus , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos BALB C , Organismos Libres de Patógenos Específicos , Bazo/inmunologíaRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To assess feelings of powerlessness in patients with venous leg ulcers. METHOD: An exploratory, descriptive, analytic, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Plastic Surgery Outpatient Clinic of the São Paulo Hospital (HSP) and at the Outpatient Wound-Care Clinic of the Sorocaba Hospital Complex (CHS), Brazil, from May 2010 to April 2012. Sixty patients with venous leg ulcers (VLUs), of both sexes, aged greater than or equal to 18 years, from the two outpatient wound-care clinics were selected to participate in the study. All participants responded to the Powerlessness Assessment Tool (PAT) for adult patients. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test at a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). RESULTS: Forty-four (73%) patients were women and 38 (63%) were aged 61-70 years. Eight (13%) patients were alcoholics and 46 (77%) were smokers. Thirty-two (53%) patients had a VLU for more than 10 years; the ulcer area ranged from 11-20 cm2 in 19 (32%) patients and was >30 cm2 in 18 (30%) patients. Mean total PAT score was 47.83 ± 7.99 and ranged from 51-60 for 31 (52%) patients and from 41-50 for 19 (32%) patients. CONCLUSION: Most patients with venous leg ulcers reported high PAT scores, revealing the presence of strong feelings of powerlessness. DECLARATION OF INTEREST: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Emociones , Poder Psicológico , Calidad de Vida , Úlcera Varicosa/psicología , Anciano , Brasil , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Factores de RiesgoRESUMEN
The Williams-Beuren syndrome (SWB), also known as Williams syndrome, is a contiguous gene deletion of the region 7q.11.23. The main clinical characteristics are typical faces, supravalvular aortic stenosis, failure to thrive, short stature, transient neonatal hypercalcemia, delayed language, friendly personality, hyperacusis and intellectual disability. The diagnosis of SWB is confirmed by the detection of micro deletion by different techniques of molecular cytogenetics, FISH, MLPA or polymorphic markers. This study assessed the verbal intelligence quotient (IQ) and performance and visuo-spatial skills in children and adults with WBS. The composed group was of 31 WBS patients (19 M and 12 F), whose ages ranged from 9 to 26 years (M 14.45 y). All patients had the diagnosis confirmed molecularly. The tests used were the WISC-III, WAIS-III and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test. The results indicated a total IQ ranged from 51 to 86 (M 63): 22 with mild intellectual disability, 4 with moderate intellectual disability, 4 borderlines and 1 below the normal media. All patients had marked visual-spatial deficits. The results suggest nonverbal reasoning, visuo-spatial perception, spatial representation, working memory, motor planning and executive functions are very affected in this group.
El síndrome de Williams-Beuren (SWB), también conocido como síndrome de Williams, es un síndrome de deleción de genes contiguos de la región 7q.11.23. Se caracteriza por dimorfismo facial típico asociado a anomalías cardiovasculares, personalidad amigable, hiperacusia y deficiencia intelectual. El diagnóstico del SWB es confirmado por la detección de microdeleción a partir de las diferentes técnicas de citogenética molecular: FISH, marcadores polimórficos o MLPA. Este estudio evaluó el cociente intelectual verbal y manipulativo, así como las habilidades visuoespaciales en niños y adultos con SWB. El grupo estuvo formado por 31 pacientes con SWB (19 de sexo masculino y 12 de sexo femenino), cuyas edades variaron entre 9 y 26 años (media 14.45 años). Todos los pacientes tenían el diagnóstico confirmado molecularmente. Los test utilizados fueron las escalas WISC-III, WAIS-III y el Test Figuras Complejas Rey-Osterrieth. Los resultados indicaron un cociente intelectual que osciló de 51 a 86 (media 63), distribuido así: 22 con deficiencia intelectual leve, 4 con deficiencia intelectual moderada, 4 limítrofes, 1 en la media inferior. Todos los pacientes presentaron déficit visuoespacial. Los resultados sugieren que el razonamiento no verbal, la percepción visuoespacial, la representación espacial, la memoria de trabajo, la planificación motora y las funciones ejecutivas están muy comprometidos en el grupo estudiado.
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Síndrome de Williams , InteligenciaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Kinins are pro-inflammatory peptides that are released during tissue injury, including that caused by inflammatory bowel disease. Herein, we assessed the role and underlying mechanisms through which the absence of kinin B(1) receptors exacerbates the development of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: B(1) and B(2) receptor antagonists and B(1) receptor knockout mice (B1(-/-) ) were used to assess the involvement of B(1) and B(2) receptor signalling in a DSS-colitis. B(1) receptor, B(2) receptor, occludin and claudin-4 expression, cytokine levels and cell permeability were evaluated in colon from wild-type (WT) and B1(-/-) mice. KEY RESULTS: DSS-induced colitis was significantly exacerbated in B1(-/-) compared with WT mice. IL-1ß, IFN-γ, keratinocyte-derived chemokine and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 were markedly increased in the colon from DSS-treated B1(-/-) compared with DSS-treated WT mice. Treatment of WT mice with a selective B(1) receptor antagonist, DALBK or SSR240612, had no effect on DSS-induced colitis. Of note, B(2) receptor mRNA expression was significantly up-regulated in colonic tissue from the B1(-/-) mice after DSS administration. Moreover, treatment with a selective B(2) receptor antagonist prevented the exacerbation of colitis in B1(-/-) mice following DSS administration. The water- or DSS-treated B1(-/-) mice showed a decrease in occludin gene expression, which was partially prevented by the B(2) receptor antagonist. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: A loss of B(1) receptors markedly exacerbates the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice. The increased susceptibility of B1(-/-) may be associated with compensatory overexpression of B(2) receptors, which, in turn, modulates tight junction expression.
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Colitis/metabolismo , Receptor de Bradiquinina B1/metabolismo , Receptor de Bradiquinina B2/metabolismo , Animales , Bradiquinina/análogos & derivados , Bradiquinina/farmacología , Antagonistas del Receptor de Bradiquinina B1 , Antagonistas del Receptor de Bradiquinina B2 , Colitis/inducido químicamente , Colitis/patología , Citocinas/metabolismo , Sulfato de Dextran , Dioxoles/farmacología , Homeostasis , Mucosa Intestinal/metabolismo , Intestinos/patología , Masculino , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Ratones Noqueados , Peroxidasa/metabolismo , Receptor de Bradiquinina B1/genética , Sulfonamidas/farmacología , Uniones Estrechas/metabolismo , Regulación hacia ArribaRESUMEN
A chitosan-modified carbon fiber electrode (CFE) for dengue virus envelope protein (DENV) was developed. Antibodies against DENV were covalently immobilized on the chitosan (CHIT) matrix after activation with sodium periodate. Cyclic voltammetries and scanning electron microscopies analysis were performed to monitor steps involved in the CFE surface modification. Amperometric response of the competitive immunoassays was generated by hydrogen peroxide reaction with the peroxidase conjugated to DENV and 2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) as mediator. The immunosensor showed a lower limit of detection for DENV (0.94 ng mL(-1)) than previously described and a linear range from 1.0 to 175 ng mL(-1), in concentration levels clinically relevant for dengue virus diagnosis. The intra- and inter-assay were respectively 5.8% and 3.6%. The unique and simple design of this immunoassay format provides an economical alternative for the manufacture of other sensitive sensors.
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Virus del Dengue/aislamiento & purificación , Electrodos/normas , Proteínas del Envoltorio Viral/análisis , Carbono , Fibra de Carbono , Quitosano , Dengue/diagnóstico , Virus del Dengue/inmunología , Inmunoensayo/métodos , Inmunoensayo/normas , Proteínas del Envoltorio Viral/inmunologíaRESUMEN
Oil from the seed of the castor plant (Ricinus communis L.) is an important commodity for a number of industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals to renewable energy resources. However, the seed and subsequent seed meal contain ricin (RCA60), a potent cytotoxin, making it an unusable product for animal feed. In order to investigate the efficiency of reducing the toxicity of the seed meal, a biosensor is proposed by exploring the lectin-carbohydrate binding. A gold electrode was assembled with a film of Xyloglucan (XG) extracted from Hymenaea courbaril L. The analytical response to RCA60 was obtained using a polyclonal antibody against RCA60 conjugated to peroxidase. The current responses were generated by reaction with H2O2 and amplified with hydroquinone as chemical mediator. Voltammetric studies showed that the XG film was tightly bound to the gold electrode. This biosensor allows discriminate lectins in native and denatured forms. The limit of detection of native RCA60 was 2.1 µg mL(-1). This proposed biosensor showed to be a potential and accurate method for toxicity assessment of the ricin in castor seed meal by simple polysaccharide film-electrode strategy.