RESUMEN

Features of threatening cues and the associated context influence the perceived imminence of threat and the defensive responses evoked. To provide additional knowledge about how the directionality of a threat (i.e. directed-towards or away from the viewer) might impact defensive responses in humans, participants were shown pictures of a man carrying a gun (threat) or nonlethal object (neutral) directed-away from or towards the participant. Cardiac and electrodermal responses were collected. Compared to neutral images, threatening images depicting a gun directed-towards the participant induced sustained bradycardia and an increased electrodermal response, interpreted as immobility under attack. This defensive immobility reaction is evoked by high perceived threat and inescapable situations and indicates intense action preparation. Pictures of guns directed-away from the participant induced shorter bradycardia and no significant modulation of the electrodermal response compared to neutral pictures, which might be consistent with the perception of a less threatening situation. The results show that the directionality of threat stimuli is a key factor that prompts different patterns of defensive responses.

Asunto(s)

Miedo , Respuesta Galvánica de la Piel , Frecuencia Cardíaca , Humanos , Respuesta Galvánica de la Piel/fisiología , Masculino , Femenino , Frecuencia Cardíaca/fisiología , Adulto , Adulto Joven , Miedo/fisiología , Miedo/psicología , Estimulación Luminosa , Señales (Psicología)

RESUMEN

Abstract Reports abound on Lernaea parasitizing the brood stock, fingerlings, and marketable-sized culturable freshwater fish species in various parts of the world. We investigated seven small-scale aquaculture farms and how the prevailing Lernaea is impacting them. Randomly seven fish farms were selected to determine the prevalence percentage of lernaeid ectoparasites. Relevant information of the fishponds to estimate the various aspects such as effects of water source and quality, feed, stocking density, treatment used, and weight and length of fish, concerned with Lernaea infestation and prevalence was gathered. The results indicated that Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) showed highest prevalence (41.7%) among the seven fish species, whereas Oreochromis niloticus showed zero. Other five fish species Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix showed 13.2%, 8.1%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 0.9% prevalence, respectively. In Royal Fish Farm 84.3% lernaeid infestation was observed, while no parasite was observed in the Vicents Chunnian fish farm. The water source, quality, feed, fertilizers, stocking density, water temperature, and potential treatment options displayed varying tendencies among fish farms and prevalence. Depending on the weight and length, the highest prevalence (56.7%, and 66.7%) was observed in 3501-4000 g and 81-90 cm groups. The infestation rate varied in various fish body parts with the dorsal fin the most vulnerable organ and showed 2.3% overall prevalence (while 18.4% contribution within total 12.6% infestation). Out of 147 infected fish samples, 45 were extensively contaminated by Lernaea spread. In conclusion, our findings confirm that Lernaea could pose a considerable threat to marketable fish, and various treatment options should be educated to the farmers to help mitigate the spread and potential losses. Furthermore, Catla catla is more vulnerable to Lernaea infestation (41.7%), so are the fish species being cultured at higher stocking densities.

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Resumo Abundam os relatórios sobre Lernaea parasitando o estoque de cria, alevinos e espécies de peixes de água doce cultiváveis de tamanho comercial em várias partes do mundo. Investigamos sete fazendas de aquicultura de pequena escala e de que maneira a Lernaea predominante está impactando-as. Aleatoriamente, sete fazendas de peixes foram selecionadas para determinar a porcentagem de prevalência de ectoparasitas de Lernaea. Foram recolhidas informações relevantes sobre os viveiros de peixes para estimar os vários aspectos, tais como efeitos da fonte e qualidade da água, alimentação, densidade de povoamento, tratamento utilizado e peso e comprimento dos peixes, relacionados com a infestação e prevalência de Lernaea. Os resultados indicaram que Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) apresentou maior prevalência (41,7%) entre as sete espécies de peixes, enquanto Oreochromis niloticus apresentou zero. Outras cinco espécies de peixes Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita e Hypophthalmichthys molitrix apresentaram 13,2%, 8,1%, 7,7%, 7,4%, 0,9% de prevalência, respectivamente. Em Royal Fish Farm, 84,3% de infestação de Lernaea foi observada, enquanto não se observou nenhum parasita na fazenda de peixes Chunnian de Vicent. A fonte de água, qualidade, ração, fertilizantes, densidade de estocagem, temperatura da água e opções de tratamento potenciais exibiram tendências variadas entre as fazendas de peixes e prevalência. Dependendo do peso e comprimento, a maior prevalência (56,7% e 66,7%) foi observada nos grupos de 3501-4000 g e 81-90 cm. A taxa de infestação variou em várias partes do corpo dos peixes, sendo a nadadeira dorsal o órgão mais vulnerável e apresentou 2,3% de prevalência geral (enquanto 18,4% de contribuição dentro do total de 12,6% de infestação). Das 147 amostras de peixes infectados, 45 estavam amplamente contaminadas pela propagação de Lernaea. Em conclusão, nossos resultados confirmam que Lernaea pode representar uma ameaça considerável para peixes comercializáveis, e várias opções de tratamento devem ser educadas para os agricultores para ajudar a mitigar a propagação e as perdas potenciais. Além disso, Catla catla é mais vulnerável à infestação por Lernaea (41,7%), assim como as espécies de peixes sendo cultivadas em densidades de estocagem mais altas.

RESUMEN

Background: Quantifying women's empowerment has become the focus of attention of many international organizations and scholars. We aimed to describe quantitative indicators of women's empowerment that are based on individual-level data. Methods: In this scoping review, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google, and Google Scholar for publications describing the operationalization of measures of women's empowerment. Results: We identified 36 studies published since 2004, half of them since 2019, and most from low- and middle-income countries. Twelve studies were based on data from the Demographic and Health Surveys and used 56 different variables from the questionnaires (ranging from one to 25 per study) to measure the overall empowerment of women 15-49 years. One study focused on rural women, two included married and unmarried women, and one analyzed the couple's responses. Factor analysis and principal component analysis were the most common approaches used. Among the 24 studies based on other surveys, ten analyzed overall empowerment, while the others addressed sexual and reproductive health (4 studies), agriculture (3) and livestock (1), water and sanitation (2), nutrition (2), agency (1), and psychological empowerment (1). These measures were mainly based on data from single countries and factor analysis was the most frequently analytical method used. We observed a diversity of indicator definitions and domains and a lack of consensus in terms of what the proposed indicators measure. Conclusion: The proposed women's empowerment indicators represent an advance in the field of gender and development monitoring. However, the empowerment definitions used vary widely in concept and in the domains/dimensions considered, which, in turn influence or are influenced by the adopted methodologies. It remains a challenge to find a balance between the need for a measure suitable for comparisons across populations and over time and the incorporation of country-specific elements.

RESUMEN

Soon after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Institute for Health Sciences Research (IICS) of the National University of Asunción, Paraguay became a testing laboratory (COVID-Lab) for SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-Lab testing performance was assessed from 1 April 2020 to 12 May 2021. The effect of the pandemic on the IICS and how the COVID-Lab contributed to the academic and research activities of the institute were also assessed. IICS researchers and staff adjusted their work schedules to support the COVID-Lab. Of the 13,082 nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs processed, 2704 (20.7%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR. Of the individuals testing positive, 55.4% were female and 48.3% were aged 21-40 years. Challenges faced by the COVID-Lab were unstable reagent access and insufficient staff; shifting obligations regarding research, academic instruction, and grantsmanship; and the continuous demands from the public for information on COVID-19. The IICS provided essential testing and reported on the progress of the pandemic. IICS researchers gained better laboratory equipment and expertise in molecular SARS-CoV-2 testing but struggled to manage their conflicting educational and additional research obligations during the pandemic, which affected their productivity. Therefore, policies protecting the time and resources of the faculty and staff engaged in pandemic-related work or research are necessary components of healthcare emergency preparedness.

Asunto(s)

COVID-19 , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , COVID-19/diagnóstico , COVID-19/epidemiología , COVID-19/prevención & control , SARS-CoV-2/genética , Prueba de COVID-19 , Pandemias , Paraguay/epidemiología , Vacunación

RESUMEN

In this study, we aimed to assess the spatial variability of microclimate inside a closed compost-bedded pack barn (CBP) with a negative ventilation system during summer and winter. The research was carried out in a CBP located in the Zona da Mata region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. For each of the stations analyzed, the following environmental mean variables observed inside a CBP were measured: air dry-bulb temperature (tdb), air relative humidity (RH), and windspeed, Temperature-Humidity index, and specific enthalpy. The kriging maps showed that the most critical housing conditions in the thermal environment were found, mainly, from the central part of the CBP, close to the exhaust fans. The analyses also pointed out that the system presented temperature gradients along the length, up to 3°C. During the summer afternoon, the entire region of the CBP was in a discomfort situation (tdb>26°C; RH>75%). During the winter, the measured environmental data remained within the comfort zone throughout the facility. However, probably due to the lack of thermal insulation of the material used to close the sides of the CBP, it did not allow spatial thermal uniformity for both seasons. It was also inefficient to keep the animals within the comfort zone for lactating cattle during the critical summer period.

Asunto(s)

Compostaje , Industria Lechera , Animales , Bovinos , Femenino , Vivienda para Animales , Humedad , Lactancia , Microclima , Estaciones del Año , Análisis Espacial , Temperatura

RESUMEN

Reports abound on Lernaea parasitizing the brood stock, fingerlings, and marketable-sized culturable freshwater fish species in various parts of the world. We investigated seven small-scale aquaculture farms and how the prevailing Lernaea is impacting them. Randomly seven fish farms were selected to determine the prevalence percentage of lernaeid ectoparasites. Relevant information of the fishponds to estimate the various aspects such as effects of water source and quality, feed, stocking density, treatment used, and weight and length of fish, concerned with Lernaea infestation and prevalence was gathered. The results indicated that Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) showed highest prevalence (41.7%) among the seven fish species, whereas Oreochromis niloticus showed zero. Other five fish species Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix showed 13.2%, 8.1%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 0.9% prevalence, respectively. In Royal Fish Farm 84.3% lernaeid infestation was observed, while no parasite was observed in the Vicent's Chunnian fish farm. The water source, quality, feed, fertilizers, stocking density, water temperature, and potential treatment options displayed varying tendencies among fish farms and prevalence. Depending on the weight and length, the highest prevalence (56.7%, and 66.7%) was observed in 3501-4000 g and 81-90 cm groups. The infestation rate varied in various fish body parts with the dorsal fin the most vulnerable organ and showed 2.3% overall prevalence (while 18.4% contribution within total 12.6% infestation). Out of 147 infected fish samples, 45 were extensively contaminated by Lernaea spread. In conclusion, our findings confirm that Lernaea could pose a considerable threat to marketable fish, and various treatment options should be educated to the farmers to help mitigate the spread and potential losses. Furthermore, Catla catla is more vulnerable to Lernaea infestation (41.7%), so are the fish species being cultured at higher stocking densities.

Asunto(s)

Carpas , Parásitos , Animales , Explotaciones Pesqueras , Agua Dulce , Pakistán/epidemiología , Prevalencia

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: Growing evidence suggests that peritraumatic tonic immobility, an involuntary defensive response that involves extreme physical immobility and the perceived inability to escape, is a significant predictor of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology. However, this issue has not been specifically addressed in adolescents. Here, we investigated whether tonic immobility response experienced during the worst childhood or adolescent trauma is associated with PTSD symptom severity in a non-clinical student sample. METHODS: The sample was composed of students in 9th grade who were attending public and private schools. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress and tonic immobility were assessed using questionnaires. We performed bivariate and multivariate negative binomial regressions to examine whether tonic immobility was associated with PTSD symptomatology after controlling for confounders (peritraumatic dissociation, peritraumatic panic reactions, gender, age and time since trauma). RESULTS: We found an association between tonic immobility and PTSD symptom severity, even after controlling for confounders. Therefore, tonic immobility is associated with PTSD symptoms in trauma-exposed adolescents. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight tonic immobility as a possible risk factor that could be used to provide direction for more targeted trauma interventions for individuals, particularly those at risk for developing PTSD. Therefore, it contributes to preventing and reducing the psychiatric burden in adolescence and later in life.

RESUMEN

1,8-cineole is a monoterpene commonly used by the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries owing to its flavor and fragrances properties. In addition, this bioactive monoterpene has demonstrated bactericidal and fungicidal activities. However, such activities are limited due to its low aqueous solubility and stability. This study aimed to develop nanoemulsion containing cineole and assess its stability and antibacterial activity in this context. The spontaneous emulsification method was used to prepare nanoemulsion (NE) formulations (F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5). Following the development of NE formulations, we chose the F1 formulation that presented an average droplet size (in diameter) of about 100 nm with narrow size distribution (PdI <0.2) and negative zeta potential (∼ - 35 mV). According to the analytical centrifugation method with photometric detection, F1 and F5 formulations were considered the most stable NE with lower droplet migration velocities. In addition, F1 formulation showed high incorporation efficiency (> 80 %) and TEM analyses demonstrated nanosized oil droplets with irregular spherical shapes and without any aggregation tendency. Antibacterial activity assessment showed that F1 NE was able to enhance the cineole action against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Therefore, using a simple and reproducible method of low energy emulsification we designed a stable nanoemulsion containing 1,8-cineole with improved antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains.

Asunto(s)

Antibacterianos/química , Emulsiones/química , Eucaliptol/química , Nanoestructuras/química , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Estabilidad de Medicamentos , Enterococcus faecalis/efectos de los fármacos , Eucaliptol/farmacología , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Tamaño de la Partícula , Staphylococcus aureus/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

We present briefly the LLAMA sub-mm radiotelescope, a joint project of Argentina and Brazil, being mounted in the Andes, Argentina, at 4800 m altitude. Here we focus on the activities that are going on mostly under the responsibility of Brazil, like the high frequency receivers, parts of the back-end and electronics, the optical system of the telescope to bring the radiation to the receivers, the equipment needed for the integration and verification phase (optical telescope and holography) and the computation system.The main scientific applications that are planned are dscribed. We also report on a joint program with BRICS countries approved in 2019, which will involve the use of LLAMA for testing high-frequency receivers.

Asunto(s)

Telescopios , Argentina , Brasil

RESUMEN

Monitoring indicators of breastfeeding practices is important to protect and evaluate the progress of breastfeeding promotion efforts. However, high-income countries lack standardized methodology to monitor their indicators. We aimed to update and summarize nationally representative annual estimates of breastfeeding indicators in high-income countries and to describe methodological issues pertaining to the data sources used. A review was conducted through population-based surveys with nationally representative samples or health reports from nationally representative administrative data of electronic surveys or medical records. Methodological aspects and rates of all breastfeeding indicators available were summarized by country. The median and annual growth of breastfeeding in percentage points within countries with time-series data were estimated. Data from 51 out of 82 high-income countries were identified. The data were obtained through surveys (n = 32) or administrative data (n = 19). Seventy-one percent of countries have updated their indicators since 2015. Ever breastfed was the indicator most frequently reported (n = 46), with a median of 91%. By 6 months of age, the median equals 18% for exclusive and 45% for any breastfeeding. At 12 months, the median of continued breastfeeding decreased to 29%. The annual growth rate for ever breastfed, exclusive and any breastfeeding at 6 months and continued at 12 months varied from 1.5 to -2.0, 3.5 to -3.1, 5.0 to -1.0 and 5.0 to -1.9, respectively, with positive changes for most countries. Stronger interventions are needed to promote breastfeeding in high-income countries as a whole, and investments are required to monitor trends with standardized methodologies.

Asunto(s)

Lactancia Materna , Renta , Países Desarrollados , Femenino , Humanos , Lactante , Encuestas y Cuestionarios

RESUMEN

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a common sight-threatening pathology that can be induced by a variety of inflammatory and angiogenic stimuli. Current CNV treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs and antibody-based inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, these are not always effective and novel therapeutic approaches are needed. Previous work has indicated a role for nucleolin (NCL) in VEGF-mediated neoangiogenesis in a suture-induced CNV model. The major goal for this current study is to test the effect of AS1411, a NCL-binding DNA aptamer that has reached human clinical trials, on neovascularization in a murine model of VEGF-mediated CNV. Our results show that topical administration of AS1411 can significantly inhibit corneal neovascularization in this model. Mechanistic studies indicate that AS1411 reduces the VEGF-stimulated proliferation, migration, and tube formation of primary cells obtained from human limbus stroma (HLSC). AS1411 treatment also significantly reduced VEGF-stimulated induction of miR-21 and miR-221 in HLSC, suggesting a role for these pro-angiogenic miRNAs in mediating the effects of AS1411 in this system. In sum, this new research further supports a role for NCL in the molecular etiology of CNV and identifies AS1411 as a potential anti-angiogenic CNV treatment that works by a novel mechanism of action.

Asunto(s)

Córnea/patología , Neovascularización de la Córnea/tratamiento farmacológico , Oligodesoxirribonucleótidos/farmacología , Animales , Aptámeros de Nucleótidos , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Células Cultivadas , Córnea/efectos de los fármacos , Neovascularización de la Córnea/metabolismo , Neovascularización de la Córnea/patología , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Humanos , Masculino , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos BALB C

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: With the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there is a renewed commitment of tackling the varied challenges of undernutrition, particularly stunting (SDG 2.2). Health equity is also a priority in the SDG agenda and there is an urgent need for disaggregated analyses to identify disadvantaged subgroups. We compared time trends in socioeconomic inequalities obtained through stratification by wealth quintiles and deciles for stunting prevalence. METHODS: We used 37 representative Demographic and Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster surveys from nine Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries conducted between 1996 and 2016. Stunting in children under-5 years was assessed according to the 2006 WHO Child Growth Standards and stratified by wealth quintiles and deciles. Within-country socioeconomic inequalities were measured through concentration index (CIX) and slope index of inequality (SII). We used variance-weighted least squares regression to estimate annual changes. RESULTS: Eight out of nine countries showed a statistical evidence of reduction in stunting prevalence over time. Differences between extreme deciles were larger than between quintiles in most of countries and at every point in time. However, when using summary measures of inequality, there were no differences in the estimates of SII with the use of deciles and quintiles. In absolute terms, there was a reduction in socioeconomic inequalities in Peru, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Belize, Suriname and Colombia. In relative terms, there was an increase in socioeconomic inequalities in Peru, Bolivia, Haiti, Honduras and Guatemala. CONCLUSIONS: LAC countries have made substantial progress in terms of reducing stunting,. Nevertheless, renewed actions are needed to improve equity. Particularly in those countries were absolute and relative inequalities did not change over time such Bolivia and Guatemala. Finer breakdowns in wealth distribution are expected to elucidate more differences between subgroups; however, this approach is relevant to cast light on those subgroups that are still lagging behind within populations and inform equity-oriented health programs and practices.

Asunto(s)

Trastornos del Crecimiento/epidemiología , Equidad en Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Disparidades en Atención de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Factores Socioeconómicos , Niño , Preescolar , Femenino , Necesidades y Demandas de Servicios de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Humanos , América Latina/epidemiología , Prevalencia , América del Sur

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Rotavirus antigenemia and RNAemia (the presence of rotavirus RNA in serum) have been commonly identified among paediatric patients with acute gastroenteritis. In this study we examined the association between rotavirus antigenemia and clinical features, and sought to determine the genotypes of rotaviruses detected in paired stool and serum samples. METHODS: Paired stool and serum samples were obtained from children hospitalised for acute gastroenteritis in Belém, Brazil, between June 2012 and June 2015. The 20-point Vesikari scoring system was used to assess the disease severity upon a retrospective medical record review. Stool and serum samples were primarily screened for the presence of rotavirus antigen using a commercial ELISA assay. The rotavirus isolates from stool and serum samples were genotyped by using the classical reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and/or through nucleotide sequencing of VP4 and VP7 genes. Viral load was estimated using real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS: In total rotavirus antigen was detected in 109 (24.2%) stool samples from 451 children, whereas antigenemia occurred in 38.5% (42/109) of these patients. We demonstrated that patients positive for rotavirus RNA in paired stool and serum samples were more likely to have a higher frequency of vomiting episodes in a 24-h period (p = 0.0035). Our findings also suggested that children not vaccinated against rotavirus are more likely to develop antigenemia, as compared to those given at least one vaccine dose (p = 0.0151). G12P [8] and G2P [4] genotypes were predominant throughout the study period, accounting for 52.3% (57/109) and 27.5% (30/109) of the typed isolates, respectively. Ten stool-serum pairs could be typed for VP4 and VP7 genes. Seven of these pairs showed concordant results with G2P [4] genotype being detected in stool and serum samples, whereas discrepancies between genotypes (G2P [4]/G2P[NT] and G12P [8]/G2P[NT]) were seen in three pairs. CONCLUSIONS: Rotavirus antigenemia and RNAemia occur in a significant number of children hospitalised for acute gastroenteritis in Belém, Brazil, and may contribute to a greater disease severity, particularly translated into a greater number of vomiting episodes. This study documented a high concordance of genotypes detected in a subgroup of paired stool and serum samples.

Asunto(s)

Antígenos Virales/análisis , Gastroenteritis/inmunología , ARN Viral/análisis , Infecciones por Rotavirus/inmunología , Rotavirus/inmunología , Enfermedad Aguda , Antígenos Virales/sangre , Brasil , Niño , Preescolar , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , Heces/química , Heces/virología , Femenino , Gastroenteritis/complicaciones , Gastroenteritis/virología , Genotipo , Hospitalización , Humanos , Masculino , Estudios Prospectivos , ARN Viral/sangre , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa de Transcriptasa Inversa , Rotavirus/genética , Índice de Severidad de la Enfermedad , Vómitos/etiología

RESUMEN

Isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions are a versatile tool in the synthesis of heterocycles. This review describes recently developed approaches based on the combination of consecutive or repetitive isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions for the synthesis of structurally diverse heterocycles. These strategies have also allowed the synthesis of a plethora of macroheterocycles in a reduced number of steps.

RESUMEN

Wound healing is severely affected in hyperglycemia and other metabolic conditions. Finding new therapeutic approaches that accelerate wound healing and improve the quality of the scar may reduce the morbidity commonly associated with skin lesions in diabetes. This study evaluated the effect of topical topiramate (TPM) on wound healing in C57 mice. Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic mice were subjected to a wound on the back and randomly allocated for treatment with either vehicle or topical TPM cream (2%) once a day for 14 days. Polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and microscopy were performed for the analysis. TPM improved wound healing (complete resolution at Day 10, 98% ± 5 for TPM vs. 81% ± 28 for vehicle), increased organization and deposition of collagen Type I, and enhanced the quality of the scars as determined by microscopy. In addition, TPM modulated the expression of cytokines and proteins of the insulin-signaling pathway: In early wound-healing stages, expression of interleukin-10, an anti-inflammatory marker, increased, whereas at the late phase, the pro-inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 increased and there was increased expression of a vascular endothelial growth factor. Proteins of the insulin-signaling pathway were stimulated in the late wound-healing phase. Topical TPM improves the quality of wound healing in an animal model of hyperglycemia. The effect of TPM is accompanied by modulation of inflammatory and growth factors and proteins of the insulin-signaling pathway. Therefore, topical TPM presents as a potential therapeutic agent in skin wounds in patients with hyperglycemia.

Asunto(s)

Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Hiperglucemia/tratamiento farmacológico , Hipoglucemiantes/farmacología , Topiramato/farmacología , Cicatrización de Heridas/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Hipoglucemiantes/administración & dosificación , Ratones , Distribución Aleatoria , Piel/efectos de los fármacos , Topiramato/administración & dosificación

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Few low-middle-income countries have data from comparable birth cohort studies spanning over time. We report on the methods used by the Pelotas cohorts (1982, 1993, 2004 and 2015) and describe time trends in sociodemographic characteristics of the participant families. METHODS: During the four study years, all maternity hospitals in the city were visited daily, and all urban women giving birth were enrolled. Data on socioeconomic and demographic characteristics were collected using standardized questionnaires, including data on maternal and paternal skin colour, age and schooling, maternal marital status, family income and household characteristics. The analyses included comparisons of time trends and of socioeconomic and ethnic group inequalities. RESULTS: Despite a near 50% increase in the city's population between 1982 and 2015, the total number of births declined from 6011 to 4387. The proportion of mothers aged ≥35 years increased from 9.9% to 14.8%, and average maternal schooling from 6.5 [standard deviation (SD) 4.2] to 10.1 (SD 4.0) years. Treated water was available in 95.3% of households in 1982 and 99.3% in 2015. Three-quarters of the families had a refrigerator in 1982, compared with 98.3% in 2015. Absolute income-related inequalities in maternal schooling, household crowding, household appliances and access to treated water were markedly reduced between 1982 and 2015. Maternal skin colour was associated with inequalities in age at childbearing and schooling, as well as with household characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: During the 33-year period, there were positive changes in social and environmental determinants of health, including income, education, fertility and characteristics of the home environment. Socioeconomic inequality was also reduced.

Asunto(s)

Salud Infantil/tendencias , Disparidades en el Estado de Salud , Salud Materna/tendencias , Adolescente , Adulto , Brasil , Niño , Estudios de Cohortes , Escolaridad , Composición Familiar , Femenino , Fertilidad , Encuestas Epidemiológicas , Humanos , Masculino , Edad Materna , Embarazo , Factores Socioeconómicos , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Threatening cues and surrounding contexts trigger specific defensive response patterns. Posturography, a technique for measuring postural strategies, has been used to evaluate motor defensive reactions in humans. When exposed to gun pointed pictures, humans were shown to exhibit an immobility reaction. Short and long-term exposure to violent video games was shown to be a causal risk factor for increased violent and aggressive behavior. Assaultive violence with a gun is a major trigger for motor defensive reactions, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the most characteristic psychiatric sequelae. Recent studies point to links between PTSD symptoms and emotional shortfalls in non-clinical trauma-exposed samples. The present study investigated defensive reactions to gun threat and PTSD symptoms in heavy players of violent video games compared to non-players. Male university students were screened according to use of violent video games and divided in three groups: non-players, moderate players, and heavy players. Stimuli were pictures depicting a man pointing a gun directed at the participant. In matched control pictures, non-lethal objects replaced the gun. Posturography was recorded and PTSD symptoms were assessed. When exposed to the threat pictures, non-players exhibited the expected reduction in amplitude of body sway (immobility), heavy players presented atypical augmented amplitude of body sway, and moderate players showed intermediate reactivity. Heavy players presented a significant distinct reaction compared to non-players. They also scored significantly higher in PTSD symptoms than non-players. Disadvantageous defensive reactions and higher vulnerability to PTSD symptoms, revealed in the present study, add to other shortcomings for heavy players.

RESUMEN

As part of the ongoing efforts in discovering potentially bioactive natural products from medicinal plants, the present study was conducted to isolate a new complex triterpenoid saponin from the barks of Albizia lebbeck. It was isolated by using chromatographic methods and its structural elucidation was performed using detailed analyses of 1H and 13C NMR spectra including 2D-NMR (COSY, TOCSY, HSQC and HMBC) spectroscopic techniques, high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HRESIMS) analysis and chemical conversions. Its structure was established as 21-[[(2E,6S)-6-[6-deoxy-4-O-[(2E,6S)-6-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-methyl-1-oxo-2,7-octadienyl]-[(ß-d-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-methyl-1-oxo-2,7-octadienyl]-[(ß-d-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-2,6-dimethyl-1-oxo-2,7-octadienyl]oxy]-16-hydroxy-3-[[O-ß-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-2-(acetylamino)-2-deoxy-ß-d-glucopyranosyl]oxy]-(3ß,16α,21ß)-olean-12-en-28-oic acid O-α-l-arabinofuranosyl-(1 → 4)-O-[ß-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)]-O-6-deoxy-α-l-mannopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-ß-d-glucopyranosyl ester (1). Additionally, this study aimed to investigate the permeability property of 1, its activity on membrane integrity and supramolecular interactions with cellular constituents using in vitro experimental models.

Asunto(s)

Albizzia/química , Membrana Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Saponinas/química , Triterpenos/química , Animales , Eritrocitos/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , Espectroscopía de Resonancia Magnética , Masculino , Ratones , Estructura Molecular , Permeabilidad , Saponinas/farmacocinética , Espectrometría de Masa por Ionización de Electrospray , Triterpenos/farmacocinética

RESUMEN

Background: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1) may cause severe diseases such as HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and infective dermatitis associated with HTLV-1 (IDH). The clinical characteristics and progression of 25 early onset HAM/TSP associated or not to IDH were described. Methods: Following-up 37 IDH patients with neurological examinations, 54% developed HAM/TSP. To these cases were added 5 cases of juvenile HAM/TSP. The patients were HTLV-1+ and were submitted to dermatological and neurological examinations. Diagnosis of HAM/TSP was performed according to Osame et al (1990) and Castro-Costa et al (2006) criteria. Results: Twenty-one patients were classified as definite HAM/TSP by both criteria, 3 as probable HAM/TSP by Osame et al, and another as probable HAM/TSP according to Castro-Costa et al Median age at onset of neurological manifestations was 9 years for the IDH/HAM/TSP group and 16 years for the HAM/TSP group (P = .045). In 12 patients, the onset of neurological manifestations occurred when they were less than 10 years of age. In the group IDH/HAM/TSP, the neurological symptoms always begun during the period of activity of IDH. The progression of HAM/TSP evaluated in 17 cases was heterogeneous, and 3 had rapid progressive course. Conclusions: The juvenile HAM/TSP may occur very early and also presents marked female predominance. Progression of IDH to HAM/TSP before 19 years of age is frequent (54%). Rapid progressive form may also occur in early HAM/TSP. As juvenile IDH and HAM/TSP are due to vertical transmission through breastfeeding, it is very important to avoid this pathway of infection.

Asunto(s)

Progresión de la Enfermedad , Infecciones por HTLV-I/complicaciones , Virus Linfotrópico T Tipo 1 Humano/aislamiento & purificación , Transmisión Vertical de Enfermedad Infecciosa , Paraparesia Espástica Tropical/virología , Adolescente , Brasil , Lactancia Materna/efectos adversos , Niño , Preescolar , Dermatitis/virología , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Factores Sexuales , Factores de Tiempo

RESUMEN

Isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions (IMCRs) allow the construction of relatively complex molecules through a one-pot synthesis. The combination of IMCRs in a consecutive or sequential fashion further extends the complexity of the molecules obtained. Herein, we report the efficient application of this approach to the synthesis of acylhydrazines bearing 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles. Our strategy was accomplished in only three steps: first, a one-pot hydrazino-Ugi-azide four-component reaction; second a hydrazinolysis and finally an additional hydrazino-Ugi-azide reaction. This sequence provides the title compounds in moderate to excellent yields. The products synthesized herein contain functional groups within their structures that can be easily modified to obtain new acylhydrazino 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles.